《Magus Reborn [Stubbing in Seven Weeks]》 1. Things go wrong Sweat stung Kais eyes as he plunged his knife into the floor. He carved runes and Freyac syllables around him, wood splintering as his knife traced the erratic patterns. He had, maybe, five minutes. The cold floor of the Sorcerers Tower thrummed through him as the ritual circle released magical energy. This had to be the most complicated and convoluted ritual hed ever attempted. The symbols were crude and unrecognisable, making him wonder if they were even going to work, but there was no choice. He needed to make it work, to escape this place and turn things around. He jumped in his seat as throaty and menacing shouts from outside echoed through the corridors. They had found him. His head snapped around in fear, taking note of the shaky walls of the library. The wide room, once neatly organised, was now cluttered and disorganised with books scattered everywhere on the floor. Dust and cobwebs only added to the mess. His breath came out in ragged puffs and he looked down at his scarred hands. He drew the symbols faster. He needed to finishnow! But panic clawed at his chest, making him clumsy. Footsteps echoed through the halls of the Sorcerer''s Tower and he flinched. The mana fiends were just outside. The creaky, wooden door burst open behind him with a loud thud. Kai was fast on his feet, turning around to face the shadowy figure. With the face of a bull and bulging muscles, the minotaur-like creature stood at seven feet, crowned by a pair of misshapen curved horns. Black lines ran through its arms and neck, and endless rows of fangs and protrusions stuck out from its back. Its sharp claws seemed like they''d cut up the floor faster than Kai could with his knife. It was covered in grey fur, interspersed with patches of dead skin from overexposure to the decayed mana. Kai''s heart thumped in his ears as he weaved his hand to the left, casting a [Gust] spell while visualising a strong force of wind knocking the corrupted monster down. It hit its chest, making it screech and stumble back a few steps. Kai tightened his fingers around the hilt of the knife. The mana fiend got its feet under it again and lunged forward. He felt his breath leaving his lungs at the sight. Before it could reach him, he rolled on the floor, dodging the charge while hacking its leg with the knife. The fiend snarled threateningly as it slashed its claws at him in a swift motion. Kai prepared another spell and slid back, but he was too slow. The spell structure broke apart and his vision wavered as he was thrown into a bookshelf, his knife skidding away. Terrible pain hit him as he screamed in pain and touched his face. Blood dripped on the floor as he stared at his palm. His left eye was bleeding. Was it even there? It gouged out my eye, he muttered, trying to fight through the pain. He had severely underestimated the power of the mana fiend. Or maybe it was due to him being in this near crippled state that his spells weren''t as powerful. Either way, I need to get up. Kai shook his head and tried to stand. Even if he couldn''t see, he needed to go through the ritual. That was the only way to survive, but he had to fight off the mana fiend first. The creatures dark magic covered its claws, sending out blasts of corrupted energy that rippled and cut through the bookshelves as it got closer to him. Kai grasped his left eye with one hand and, using his other hand, he cast [Mana Discharge], sending a blast of mana at the creature. It tried to block, but was knocked back into a bookshelf, falling down and crying out in pain. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn''t have used such a spell with high mana requirements, but he had no time. He cast [Blinding] spell, making the monster see white. Making his way through the fallen bookshelves, he searched for his knife and found it right next to a puddle of blood. He picked it up and looked towards the mana fiend. As soon as the Blinding spell died down, it picked itself up, flailing its arm around and lunging at Kai, who was anticipating such a move. Before it could get close to him, Kai yelled, [Astrum Vosem!] The knife glistened with mana, fire crackling within the blade as he surged forward, aiming at the monsters neck. The mana fiend slashed at him again, but he ducked, barely avoiding the hit. Casting another [Blinding] spell, he sent the monster stumbling back before plunging the blade into its neck. Flames crackled out as he twisted the blade, aiming for the black lines. The mana fiend fell to the ground immediately, black liquid spewing everywhere. It cried out in pain, trying to grab Kai, but he didn''t give it the chance and kept digging deep into its neck until it stopped whimpering. Blood oozed from Kais eye and he suddenly noticed a deep cut on his arm. Pain numbed all his senses, but there was no time to focus on it. The ritual, Kai coughed blood, realising crashing into the bookshelf had given him internal injuries. He dragged himself until he was in front of his preparation and felt like cursing. A part of the ritual circle was smeared due to the blood splatter from the fight. It was ruined. Quickly deciding on his new move, he started scribbling frantically, drawing up a new ritual circle. His fingers were cramping and slippery as he tried his best to draw the symbols in his mind. With one eye gone, it was much harder, and every mistake made him swear softly. He heard more floor shattering movements through the door. There was more than one mana fiend and the fight had attracted them to his hideout. He needed to hurry. He only had a minute until they got here if he was lucky. Shit! He made a mistake and felt like banging his head against the floor. While keeping his remaining eye on the open door, he alternated between the ritual circle that was smeared with blood and one that was barely half complete. He could never finish it in time. Having no choice, Kai abandoned it and decided to take a gamble with a ruined ritual circle. A few of the lines were messed up, but he ignored it and focused on completing it. Just one more line! He frantically carved out the patterns, joining them with each other and let out a sigh of relief as he saw a complete ritual circle on a circle. A part of it was barely recognisable due to the blood. A [Cleansing] spell might have helped, but he was out of mana. The fight with the fiend had drained his reserves. He heard a shrill voice and, as expected, soon several more creatures came inside, filling the room. They were all beasts filled with corrupted mana, but it didn''t matter now. He gave them a look and dropped the blood on his hands on the ritual circle. In his heart, he only wished that the ritual circle would work as expected. That it would send him back to an era where he might still have a chance to stop the apocalypse from happening. The symbols ignited, and an intense flash of white light enveloped the room. Threads of mana passed through his soul, drawing power to keep the ritual running as his body slumped on the floor. The fleeting moment came to an end when the world surrounding Kai went completely white. The last thing he heard, before he lost consciousness, were the yells of the ugly monsters. *** Kai flinched as a sharp pain assaulted his chest. His whole body was numb as he panted on the floor. It felt like he had just stepped out of a prolonged period of floating in the cosmos. He didn''t know how long it had been, but it definitely felt like years. Probably centuries. A few seconds went by as he calmed down before the numbness disappeared and his eyes adjusted. Wait! His eyes! He touched his left eye and found it intact. It''s healed completely!! He didn''t know how he had gotten his left eye back. The ritual wasn''t supposed to heal him back. It was only supposed to take him back in time. Where am I? Am I really alive? He was surprised that the ritual had worked, though he didn''t know to what degree. With how crude it had been, there was a greater chance of it failing. If death wasn''t in front of him, Kai would have never gone for it. At least it hadn''t shredded his soul into pieces to be eaten by whatever lay beyond the afterlife, so that was a positive. He looked around. Kai was lying on a hardwood floor as he stared at the ceiling. Different carvings on the ceiling made him frown. He didn''t recognise any of them. He was supposed to be woken up in a cave or a forest, not in a room. Something bubbled up in his heart and he felt unusual. His eyes immediately went to his hands and he quickly realised that the scars were gone. He gasped in horror and sat up straight. The sudden movement caused a rush of blood to his head that made him dizzy. What in the Mersal''s name is happening? He looked down on his physique. His eyes grew wide as he noticed the tunic he was wearing was covered in blood. He opened the tunic button by button to reveal Is that a knife wound? Kai said aloud in shock. As he said the words, the wound slowly closed as if someone had used a healing spell on him. But that was impossible. Something had gone terribly wrong with the ritual and one more look at himself was enough for him to realise that it wasn''t his body. He had taken someone else''s identity. That realisation struck him like a mana bolt in the head as he gasped. He breathed to calm himself down and noticed something he had been missing. There''s mana in the air! Pure uncontaminated mana! All his thoughts and questions halted when a rush of fresh air hit his nostrils. He inhaled deeply and closed his eyes, feeling the warmth of being alive once and for all. His instincts made him get to his feet. The air had a quality about it that brought tears to his eyes Mana. Goosebumps covered his entire body. He breathed in once again. The mana in the air was so powerful it crackled with every breath Kai took. The sheer amount of mana left him wordless. This surpassed anything he had ever felt before. Kai raised his hands, feeling all the energy that filled the air. It filled the entire room, and in his 40 years of life, he had never felt so much. His ritual had worked, albeit differently than what he had hoped. What is this place? Kai looked around from where he stood. The room was bathed in an eerie light that emanated from what looked like another ritual circle beneath him. Sar?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His eyes widened at another peculiar thing as he took in the situation that he was in the middle of. Arcane symbols were drawn all around him. The symbols were alien to him; not being one of the languages he knew and had learned. Some of them seemed similar to Hales Tongue, but he couldn''t be sure since blood had spilt over them. It was a completely different ritual circle than the kinds he knew of. Questions became hurricanes in his mind after seeing the symbols. He tried to focus and understand his situation better. Although the ritual had worked, he knew there would be complications since a part of it was ruined. Half completed ritual circles were always volatile. As a result of it, he had even changed bodies. If his assumption was correct, the ritual had only sent his soul back in time which had found a compatible body for him to control. It didn''t make a lot of sense to him, but then again, soul was a part of magical theory that had barely progressed in years. It was too mysterious. He decided to gather information first and took a look around the room. There was a four-poster bed draped with heavy velvet right behind him. The bed was extremely lavish apart from the poor draping skills. The rest of the bedside decorations were canopy hangings and ornate wood furniture, including storage chests and cabinets for personal belongings. Whoever used to own this body was rich. Maybe a lord or a wealthy merchant, Kai contemplated, looking over the room. He walked towards the bed and touched it. It had gone stone cold. Nobody had used the bed for hours. The fireplace caught his attention. It was the main focus of the room, with the hearth having heraldic symbols carved above it. This time, he recognised the language as Manakrit. His fingertips followed them as he contemplated the meaning of it. It was a common tongue that had spanned centuries, so it was hard to say which era he was in. His ritual was supposed to bring him to the past, but he hadn''t gotten time to specify a date. His wish was simply to go back as far as possible. Though, he assumed 500 years was the limit for the ritual, so he must be around that time period. In the first place, it had been a suicidal attempt with a variable chance of success. Things had somehow worked out. Looking around, he saw a picture frame stuck on the wall from the corner of his eyes. Kai turned and walked towards the picture. It was an old man. His bald head and his stern gaze were pointed to his left, as he sat in a seat comfortably. It was weird that the picture was just sitting there, in the corner of a room like this. He guessed that it was either some important individual Kai didn''t recognise or the owner of the place. With the ritual, everything seemed odd. The former body owner had wounds that were fresh in two or three places, including his hands and feet. The clothes were covered with slightly dried-up blood. What was the guy even doing? He wasn''t trying a similar ritual to go back in time, right? His voice was strange. Hoarse, and deeper than he remembered. Closing his eyes, he remembered his last few minutes in the tower. It was infested with bloodthirsty creatures. Every moment tense, but in this room, there was a weird sense of serenity that he hadn''t felt in a long time. He was alive, at least. He sighed in content and opened his eyes. breathing mana with a wide smile. The mana in the air tempted him to extend his hand. He needed more light to see around the symbols. His index finger swirled a little into a circle while he envisioned lighting up the central fireplace. Normally, this spell wouldve ignited a small fireball, but nothing came. Immediately, Kai took a few steps forward. He inhaled the air, feeling the energy in his bones, and tried the spell again, his hand moving attempting a simple spell even a 1st circle mage couldve done in a blink. He even muttered an incantation for added effect, normally reserved for harder spells. [Astrum Octavia]. Once again, he successfully failed. Hed normally cast something so simple with just intent, but it wasn''t working. Something clouded his mind. He looked down on his new body and concentrated internally. He could sense mana and could feel his Mana Veins, even his Mana Heart seemed intact, but focusing on it, he realised that the body he was in was a Non-Mage. He hadn''t even started his magical journey and couldn''t cast a single spell. All the mana organs were intact, but he hadn''t awakened as a mage. The realisation of it made him wince. Not only had he lost his body, he had also lost his strength. He used to be a 5th Circle Magus. Now, he was a mere mortal. ordinary. If he had really awakened in a cave or a forest, he might have been killed by wild beasts. This cant be true. Kais refusal to believe the reality floated for a few more seconds as he closed his eyes to feel his insides. Seconds stretch to minutes as he contemplated his new reality. He slowly took in the fact that he was no longer Kai. He was in someone else''s body and had taken over him. He didn''t know who that person was, but he had been killed by whatever ritual he had been attempting. That was the best summarisation. A few possibilities of what could have happened flashed by him. Some were worth contemplating. Others were too bizarre. He decided to investigate first. Whats that? His eyes followed the trail of the bloody ritual on the floor to find a piece of parchment. Kai bent down to swiftly pick it up. The torn page lay between his fingertips, the words written on it were with blood. Whoever had written it had poor penmanship to say the least. He slowly read out the words. I will die and be reborn. Everyone would fear my might and the dawn of blood would arrive again. He dropped the parchment on the floor, wondering if he had come back in the past and inside the body of a cultist. But even if it was a cultist, the surroundings including the room didnt sum up, and if he was somehow in the body of a noble who was a ritualistic devotee, things would only get worse from here. He didn''t want to deal with a cult. At least when he was basically powerless. Kai let the weight of the situation settle in, but the door sprung open. He immediately looked to the side and saw a woman with widened eyes. Her eyes were on the floor seeing the symbols, syllables, lines, and curves; all of it. Then they fell on the owner of the room, bloodied and in the middle of this encounter, with his hands at his side. That was him and he noticed the woman looked like a maid. I- The maid opened her mouth, but nothing came out. Kai stared at her, again feeling like he was simply going from one problem to another. Ah shit! How do I get out of this one? 2. A sudden attack Kai looked at the maid and tried his best to not show any emotions. Her face was pale and she looked to be straddling the line between lean and malnourished. It was different from the body he was in which looked to be well fed. Her lips were wide open without moving for a few long seconds as she tried to gather the words. The silence seemed to stretch before she remarked, Lord Arzan, there''s there''s blood on your clothes. Her eyes lingered on his chest where the blood was clotted. She spoke in Manakrit, he took note of the name she called him with. The language was familiar, but the accent was different than he remembered. Though, it seemed like he was really in a noble''s body. Arzan. I guess that''s what I''m called now. He didn''t have time to ponder about it as he needed to deal with the situation at hand. How was he going to handle the maid that had popped up out of nowhere? If he was even a 1st Circle mage, a sleeping spell might have done the job, but he didn''t have that option right now. Im not hurt, he said with a commanding tone. You don''t have to worry about it. The maid''s eyes went towards the ritual circles and the mess that was on the floor and Kai felt a headache creeping up. There were better ways to deal with it, but he was used to spells doing all the hard work. Now, he was without them. Still, let me go find Cleric Jo No need to. He cut her off. He wasnt sure if the body owner was open about his hobbies, but either way, he wasnt about to expose himself to any Clerics who might think of him as a dark sorcerer and try to get the church after him. From the maid''s shocked reaction, it didn''t seem like she was privy to his hobbies. Before she could ask any questions, he shot a question at her, What are you here for? You didn''t even knock on the door. Kai hadn''t been a noble, but he knew they didn''t like to be disturbed and had sets of etiquette. The maid''s eyes went wide the moment he asked the question, Lord Arzan, I''m sorry, I should have told you this beforehand, but there''s been a situation in the estate. What kind of a situation? A mana mana weaver has appeared! Guards are trying to fight it, but I thought I should inform you. The urgency in her voice was all he needed to know. Mana weaver. That can be bad if it''s highly corrupted. There''s no mage around to deal with it? he asked in a questioning tone. We knocked on the doors of Mage Actra, but he kicked the maids out, telling them not to disturb him. A few guards set off immediately to get Knight Killian, but we don''t know if he would be able to get here fast enough. He frowned and considered his options. Even in his current state, he could think of a few tricks against a mana weaver and he doubted whether the guards would be able to handle one, especially without an Enforcer or a Mage helping them. How corrupt is it? he asked and the maid stared back in silence. Uh, II don''t know. He sighed as the maid cowered in front of him. Not wanting to waste anymore time, he made a decision. Okay, give me a minute. Stand outside the door. The maid obeyed his words. He opened the drawers and saw fresh clothes that were neatly folded inside. He rummaged through the stack. There was a wide range of tidy tunicstunics made of wool, and linen, all richly embroidered, and several tunics that were made of silk. It was obvious that the garments were made for a wealthy man. He grabbed a tunic from the stack and a pair of pants along with it. Kai wished to wash away the blood from his body and take a bath, but there wasnt any time for that. As he walked outside, he saw that the maid was waiting for him. She bowed to him as he exited his room and came into her field of vision. Take me there, he said and let the maid guide him. Kai wasnt familiar with the estate, therefore he let the maid lead. Without waiting further, she started to walk briskly. Every step was hurried as she turned to walk through the corridor opening that was outside his room. Kai silently followed her, taking quick steps one after another. He looked around as he walked, trying to observe the place. Since the corridors were quite narrow with only dim lighting that came from the torches, his sensitivity heightened. She took a turn to the left that led down to a staircase. His eyes wandered around. It looks to be a household with a history. The walls beneath the stairs were filled with pictures and weapons. The weapons were, in fact, quite the sight. From different sizes of swords, staffs, bows and arrows, and javelins to small throwing knives and boomerangs, the collection was massive. The paintings and weaponry assemblage expanded for two more floors, and they finally halted in front of a narrow path. It had a similar setting to the corridor they had encountered previously. The path was quite dark, even though it had a few lamps here and there. The maid turned to her side, allowing Kai to move ahead without her. Fear was prominent in her face as she looked at the passage. Kai heard shrieks and cries through the trail. He stopped in his tracks as he realised that the attack was taking place just around the corner. The screeches got louder along with the noises of metal clashing. Stay right here, Kai said and walked ahead. It was only a few steps inside when he reached toward the metal handle of the wooden door. Light suddenly blinded his eyes as he pushed it open. It was the courtyard. As his eyes slowly adjusted to the light, he noticed that there were some workers and a few other maids, trembling with fear watching the scenario in front of them. They were backed to the corner beside the door. Kai moved past them to observe the guards in front of a massive water fountain. They were trying their best to control the Mana Weaver, but without the help of a Mage or an Enforcer, their attempt wasn''t going to lead to success. There were already a few guards on the ground, injured and bleeding. Strangely, the maids hadn''t run away but were too scared to interfere in the battle. Soon, the maids who were hiding behind the fountain noticed him. Lord Arzan, please don''t get close to that monster. Hes corrupted! A maid who was among them yelled across the courtyard from behind the fountain. Stay back! Please dont go in there! Murmurs and mumbles spread from everyone as their attention turned towards Kai. He ignored them as his focus was stolen by a specific man who seemed to be the centre of the fight. The man wore a torn guard uniform and had his hand tightened around the throat of another guard. With his other hand, he aggressively pulled a guard towards himself. That was when Kai saw his hands. The fingers had turned to claws, but the arms were still human. Dark lines scaled up on the arms, showing the extent of corruption that had taken place. It was a mutant a mana weaver. It lifted the guard off the floor and continued to press the claws to the sides of his arm. In return, the guard could only bash the shield against Its head, desperately, in the hopes that It would let go of him. The noise of the metal banging filled the air. The guard yelled in pain. The blows from his shields only got weaker and he dropped it on the ground. The mana weaver threw the two guards rolling on the ground. Its moves were swift and unpredictable, as It quickly rushed towards two more men and threw them across the floor. Argh! A few more guards advanced, covering themselves with shields. As the mana weaver turned around to face the guards, Kai got a better view of how It looked. The weavers face was gruesomely disfigured, half morphed into a corpse and the other half, human, engraved with fresh scars. Its face itself was enough to make little children and grown men cry. The scars went beyond Its face, extending to Its hands. The entire thing looked like It was straight out of a nightmare. It looks to be at the first stage. I might just be able to do something. Kai observed the mana weaver and weighed his options. If It was already fully transformed, then he doubted anyone would be able to save them. Maybe, the Mage that the maid had talked about, but he didn''t know how strong he was. All he knew, it could be a Novice Mage. For now, he had to deal with It and although there was risk involved, he knew he could pull it off. Otherwise, people were going to die. He ran towards an injured guard. Blood was oozing from his sides. Kai carefully sneaked past him and picked up the shield that was lying on the floor. The shield didn''t seem like it would protect him from a lot of blows, but he just had to get close to it. Controlling his breathing, he calmed his rapidly beating heart. This body doesn''t seem athletic or it would have been easier, Kai thought to himself while trying to manoeuvre around. He closely observed the weavers movements and looked for any opportunities to attack. Taking calculated steps ahead, he patiently waited until he was just close enough. When the mana weaver tried to slash at a guard, Kai ran forward. The mana weaver didn''t see him coming, and as footsteps echoed behind it, the monster turned back only for Kai''s shield to come into contact with its head. With a yelp, the mana weaver was on its knees. Kais hands tightened around the shield as he once again landed a blow on its head, hitting the same spot, again and again. He attacked the side that still looked human-like and blood started dripping out of it. A dual-toned cry pervaded the air, as the mana weaver emitted a raw, visceral painful scream and an otherworldly lament at the same time. It leapt forward, slashing at his face and Kai protected it with his shield just in time before kicking it away. It cried, staring with a vicious glare at him, but Kai didn''t give it any time. With the adrenaline rush powering his movements, he charged forward. He hit the weaver once again, putting all his strength into that blow. The mutant fell on the floor, holding its head. Hold It! Kai yelled loudly as three guards came running. They held the monster by its shoulders, and their legs strapped to the sides of its abdomen, keeping it in place. It wouldn''t stay still for long. He saw the corruption inside its body spreading. The weaver struggled on the floor and Kai could see through a small gap in its eyelids that the eyes were starting to turn black. A newly transformed mana weavers strength was almost double that of a normal human, and the guards barely managed to contain it. He knew he couldnt use his usual magic, therefore, he had to try something else. A technique that had long lost its meaning with the rise in strength of mana weavers, but here, it might just work out. After all, the transformation didn''t look to be older than a day. Kai walked around and grabbed the mana weaver by its throat. His thumb searched the back of its neck to find the exact nerve. There it is. With sturdy fingers, he pointed his index and middle finger and pressed right on the nerve, in an attempt to put it to a slight slumber. The mana weaver tried to pull its hands out of the guards gripthe claws opened and closed. It tried to grab the guard to its left. Kai pressed until it hurt, but soon, the mana weaver stopped struggling. He took a step backwards, a bit drained out of energy and looked down. This body wasn''t used to moving much and it was going to be a problem. The weaver''s hands fell to Its sides as it slowly lost its strength and fell into a slumber. Kais attempt was successful. A few more guards broke through the door at that moment. They seemed to have run all the way to the courtyard, but seeing the mana weaver on the ground, they stood confused. Lock it inside a room. Ill take a look at It later. It won''t wake up for a while, but use chains to bind It. It will try to break free again, Kais authoritative voice came out loud as he turned towards the guards. He didn''t know his relationship with them and how he was perceived, but there was no time to figure that out . A few of the guards nodded, and one bowed, his eyes looking at Kai in a strange light. The others had similar reactions, especially the maids who were whispering something among themselves. The guard in front seemed to hesitate before opening his mouth, Why don''t we kill It, Lord Arzan? Kai shook his head, a bit surprised by the question. The transformation hadn''t increased enough that there was no remedy. Killing It would be unnecessary. No, killing it wont solve the problem. But it''s how we usually deal with these beings. If we let it live, then it will contaminate the surroundings further. It''s just in the first stage. There''s no need he stopped speaking, realising the strange look the guard was giving him. It seemed like there had been something he was missing. If he had any memories of Arzan, it might have been easy, but right now, he had to try to not come off as too strange to these people. No, just put it inside a cell. It''s an order. He refused to explain anything just yet. Get these guards to get the help they need. Theyre losing too much blood. He commanded and looked over at the guards who were still scattered around the greenery, dealing with injuries. Okay, sir, the guard nodded towards his fellow men. Take it inside! He yelled and joined the other guards to help them carry the mana weaver inside. Four guards held the weaver by the sides, all the while its legs were dragging through the floor. It had completely lost consciousness, and by how the guards struggled slightly, Kai knew it must be heavy. He walked past all the men and women who were now discussing the incident among themselves. They threw stares at him and continued to talk about him. The words Lord Arzan were heard more than five times as Kai got around to the corner of the courtyard. Kai saw to it that even the injured guards that were on the floor were being lifted and taken inside the infirmary for treatment. He knew he needed some time to think. A headache had crept in and he knew nothing about the place and the body he had occupied. He turned and walked the same way he came in. He went around the people who were walking here and there with heavy tasks in their hands after the attack. Some were carrying water buckets to clean the blood that was spilled during the attack in the courtyard, and some carried the shields of the injured to the armoury. As he got through the door, he found out the maid was still hiding in the same spot as per his instructions. But as soon as she saw Kai, she walked forward towards him. Im tired, he said, to avoid any questions the maid might have. Come with me. The maid nodded in return and followed Kai as he walked to his room. She closed the door behind her, and her eyes trailed Kai who sat on the bed immediately. She looked around the room, taking note of the bloody ritual once again. The fear and the panic had subsided, though she still saw him with strange eyes. As he sat on the bed, he looked down at his body. After the rush of adrenaline that passed away, he felt drained. He also hadn''t eaten in a while, but before that, he had to do something so that the words of whatever ritual he was conducting didn''t spread to anyone else. He looked up to see the maids eyes roaming around the place. She looked concerned but curious. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Dont let anyone know about this, He commanded, gesturing around the room. The woman immediately nodded, startled by his voice. Yes! What is your name? He asked, wondering if he should push her more. Threatening innocents wasn''t his thing and once he recovered his magic, a spell could easily solve his problems. Till then he needed the maid to be on his side. Claire, Lord Arzan. She said and Kai took a good look at her. She had an ordinary round face with brown hair. She resembled a scared bunny as she lowered her face, refusing to look him in the eyes. Just by seeing how she behaved, he knew the former soul didn''t have the best of the reputation. It was just the perfect scenario for him. Claire, if you keep your mouth shut and do as I say, there will be rewards for you. Rewards? She looked curiously at him. Yes, he said, grabbing into one of his pockets to take out a gold coin. It seemed like Arzan had a habit of forgetting money in his pockets. Claire''s eyes shone as she looked at the gold coin, clearly finding it valuable. In most eras, a gold coin was valuable and akin to the monthly salary of individuals. That was all the response he needed as he pushed the coin towards her and she grabbed it. Work hard and there will be more of these. Y-yes!! Bring me some tea, please, Claire. And some food, preferably some bread. Yes, Lord Arzan. She turned to walk out of the room as Kai asked another question. Do you know who''s the current king? The maid halted on her steps and replied. King Thorian, she responded quickly. Why are you asking? No, nothing. You can go. Kai frowned immediately as she left, taking a few minutes to remember the name from his history lessons before his frown deepened. His ritual had gone terribly wrong. 3. Uncovering past Claire left the room, leaving Kai to his thoughts. His frown deepened as he realised he had gone way farther into the past than he initially wanted. His intention with the forbidden ritual was to find himself somewhere around the period when the Third Mage War was happening. It felt like the perfect time period for him and also because the ritual didn''t seem to hold the power to send him further back. It seems like he was highly wrong. If Claire hadn''t been lying and he doubted she was, then the Third Mage War would happen more than a thousand years later. Who thought going back more than 500 years into the past was even possible? Kai contemplated and regretted not learning about such rituals in detail. But in his defence, soul succumbing rituals were forbidden for Mages to practise due to ethical reasons. One reason was also because no mage was crazy enough to risk his soul. If things go wrong, results wouldn''t just be a petty death. But, still. Kai flinched at the recollection. The guards'' behaviour with the mana weaver, the strangeness of everything started to make sense to him. Regardless, at the moment, he had something bigger to worry about King Thorian. In the numerous texts he had read about different empires and kingdoms, there was only one King Thorian he came across. His memory served him with history as he remembered that King Thorian was the ruler of the Lancephil Kingdom. His knowledge of the kingdom and era weren''t the best, but there were a few things he remembered. Lancephil Kingdom had been one of the major players in the world around the late 800s. Although King Thorian Lancephil wasn''t anything special, Kai remembered the details clearly because of its successor, King Eldric. His actions led to the beginning of the Golden era of magic The best and the worst era for Mages and humanity as a whole. Thinking about the era, his master had talked about with glee, but beyond the magical achievements and theories that had been developed, the time period wasn''t something he had personally liked. Kais brows knit in reflection. If Thorian is still the King, then, I must be around 20-30 years behind the Golden Era. I wonder how old is he currently? The calculations in his mind added up as a glimpse of hope shimmered. He inhaled as much fresh mana as possible that was in the air. As soon as the air hit his lung, he sensed the mana calming his racing mind. To someone like him, that was the best thing about such a time period. The ambient mana in the air was the purest and he felt like he could simply meditate all day. Albeit he had no time and had to find his background and scour exact information about Arzan. He looked through the room once again, this time, thoroughly enough to find something that would help him. His gaze fell onto the ritual first. The same symbols and sculptings he saw when he first looked at them. He scrunched down. The harder he tried to decipher them, the more unrecognisable they seemed. Trying to match the language of symbols for different languages he knew, again, he realised that they were vague. His finger traced a cross-like symbol that was etched on the wooden floor. A few of the symbols made sense, but they were from different languages, mashed together like a soup made up of leftovers. No wonder Arzan had died. Though, he couldn''t be sure. All he knew the man could have been trying to do a similar ritual to his. This is nothing like Ive ever seen. Kai finally gave up and got to his feet. He found a candle and lit up a fireplace. With some oil, it came to life. A simple spell might have done the job, but for now, he was powerless. The room appeared much bigger than when he first saw it as light reached all the corners. The focus on the details became prominent as he raked through. He also realised that this seemed to be one of the months of Frosania. The room temperature heated thanks to the fireplace and he was grateful that the window had a wooden panel to shut off the winds. It seemed like Arzan was wealthy enough to have an impressive collection of belongings. Kai glanced at the various bottles of scents. There were at least thirty bottles of different kinds. As he sprayed one in the air, the smell of lavender filled the room. Kai scrunched his nose, the concentration was way too strong for his liking. These types of scents would be pretty expensive and only a select wealthy would have access to them in this era, leading him to believe that Arzan''s standing was much higher than he initially assumed. Next, he swept through a few other things, useless trinkets, pairs of clothes and shoes, a dagger, quills and blank sheets of papers and what looked to be a wooden wand that was merely a plaything. Useless, Kai shook his head in uninterest. Arzan seemed like he was into all sorts of things. Surprisingly, there wasn''t anything that pointed towards him being a cultist. Aside from a chalk that was used to draw the symbols and a bloody knife, there was nothing else. Now, only one place was left. In the right corner of the room, where the windows were tightly shut with its curtains, Kai saw a shelf of books. His interest piqued as he walked towards it, and grabbed hold of two of them. They were fictional books rather than about arcane symbols or rituals like Kai had expected. He couldnt help but turn a few pages. Grabbing two more from the cluster, Kai started to read a few pages. Hmm. Kai noticed a pattern in the books as he kept everything in order. It was all books of Mages who were heroes of sorts. A hobby of reading fiction was something that they both seem to share in common. But what caught his attention was something else. Among the books that were inclined to the left in the shelf, one book, red in colour, was slanting towards the right. His hands immediately went to it and grabbed it. Opening it up, he saw handwriting that seemed familiar. It was similar to the note that he had found. ??? Kais fingers wrapped around the knife. He cut a piece of bread from the soft loaf. The fork assisted him. He chewed on the bread and quickly kept the utensils aside. He took the diary to his hands and continued where he had stopped. The messy cursives grabbed his full focus once again. He had spent the past thirty minutes reading and trying to get to know the man better. And luckily, he found a lot of information about himself and his family. The diary had seemed to have written records of everything that happened in the last year. Information including his family, disputes and even stories related to what had led Arzan to be apparently banished from his own house. Kais eyes followed the letters. 12th Junaris, 865. The times are changing, I could feel it. I have to let it out, but writing is a whole lot better than discussing it with someone. It all started with the succession. The talk about succession is not any kind of pretty around the palace. The only thing Lucian talks about is his plan for the duchy. Father barely says a word, but it seems like the conclusion had been made. I couldn''t do anything about it, having advised to be kept out of the feud. I''m powerless. Kai realised that it was still the middle of last year Junaris. As soon as the first son of Duke was of age, the discussions of the succession had started to spread like wildfire. Finding that Arzan was part of a Duke family, albeit one that hadn''t left a mark in history was surprising, but a better rank among nobility gave much better standing to him. He continued to read, scanning through the pages. The records werent consistent, but it looked like if Arzan had something interesting in his day, he wrote it down. Pages after pages, his writings included situations he encountered, a few important and a lot that he skimmed through. Likewise, months passed in the diary when something caught his attention. 20th, Novaris, 865 Things have taken a rather expected turn. Today, Lucian and Edrian almost ripped each others heads off at practice. I wasnt there, but I heard about it. Although Im not allowed to go to the grounds filled with practising Mages, I wish I was there to watch. On the other hand, Im glad I didnt. From what I heard, Lucian was winning. He is the eldest and the most powerful afterall. And Lucians alliances to the succession are way more than Edrian. I was a mere spectator in the war. Sometimes I was thankful for the peace, but I felt like a coward. If only I had been a Mage like them Kai sighed, feeling somewhat bad for Arzan. He practically stayed a shadow among the kingdom elite filled with Mages. His mention of, If only I was a Mage had been written over several situations. Some situations were horrible, but some were also his own doing. But, why didn''t he awaken as a Mage? Maybe there are answers in this itself. He leaned towards the desk, adjusted in his seat and started to turn pages. The stories were few and far in between, even finding connections was sometimes hard for Kai. 24th, Junaris, 866 Its been over three days since Ive been appointed. From what Ive heard, the place is different. My worries about certain things only keep growing more and more as I continue to think about them. Therefore, I had to pick my quill. That place City of Veralt. Who wouldve thought that Id end up ruling there. Not me, but Lucian did. I can still see it when I close my eyes, how he was not surprised when father announced my title, that too, right after he announced his successor. Fathers exact words were, Arzan, I appoint you to be the Honorary Baron for the precious City of Veralt. The city would cherish a leader like you. In other words, a powerless leader that the city could throw stones at. Lucians smile He knew it, But that look on his face that he gave me in front of the family The entire page was filled with hatred towards his brothers attitude and how he wished to vanish from their sight as soon as possible. Details about his father, The Duke, his elder brother and his second elderly brother were all over it But then, Kai realised that there was no mention of his mother throughout Arzans diary so far. Kai wanted to understand Arzan better, but his emotions were uncertain with all the hatred he was letting out, it was hard. What were his intentions after coming here? Kai hoped that there would be more about his stay herein the city and read the last line of the page. today was chaotic. But Ill stop here. My prayers are for tomorrow in a new place-City of Veralt. There it was. Kai quickly turned the page, wanting to read more. But his eagerness halted when he found the rest of the pages empty. The white, blank pages stared back at him. 24th, Junaris, 866 Kai noticed the last date. If his estimations are right, it shouldve been six months ago that the records have stopped. Six months that Arzan had been here. This is strange Arzan had used this diary for over a year, yet it had stopped six months back, right after he was banished to this city. It didn''t make sense. The timing just wasnt right, Kai could feel it. The ritual I found nothing about it Kai thought again. If he found nothing about the ritual for a year, that could only mean that the knowledge was recent. And there was no way that someone like Arzan wouldnt have mentioned a ritual if he knew before. Something had been amiss. The knock on the door withdrew Kais attention from Arzan. He stood up from his seat and went to open it. Lord Arzan, the guard said, giving a respectful nod to Kai. It was the same guard who talked to Kai about putting the Mana Weaver away. This time, he looked a bit more collected than before. S~ea??h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Yes, what is it? Kai questioned. My Lord, The mana weaver we captured has been secured in one of the cells, as you ordered. The Clerics in the church have tended to the injured, and things are under control for now, the guard said, giving him a brief report over all the things. Kai nodded and took in the information, but caught something in the guard''s eyes. He looked to be hesitating about something. Is there nothing else? He probed. Theres one more thing, Lord Arzan. The guards eyes shifted to the floor immediately. He struggled to decide between the words. Kai halted for a second but responded, Speak freely, what is it? he urged, the need to know the guards visible hesitation grew within Kai. Knight Killian was quite displeased with us. He was angry that we didn''t eliminate the mana weaver immediately, the guard said while looking at Kai. His eyes were searching for Kais reaction. Kai nodded, taking immediate note of the name Knight Killian, but he refused to show any emotions. This was the second time it came up. He knew nothing about him, therefore he avoided any sort of comment. He had to meet with him sooner rather than later anyway. I will deal with him. For now Kai shifted the focus to the mana weaver, wanting to know more. About the Mana Weaver, it was one of the guards, right? He questioned with a frown. Yes, Lord Arzan. The guard nodded. He suddenly mutated in the middle of the practice drill and attacked. There were no deaths, but some of the men got injured. We questioned other guards, but there were no hints. No one noticed any changes, the guard explained. His family is in a similar cell, in case theyre corrupted. Kai nodded again. Dont do anything excessive. Keep the family safe for a week, and release them if theres nothing strange. Thats a direct order. I will come down to meet the weaver tomorrow. Kais words were firm. He paused before adding, And as for Knight Killian, you don''t have to worry too much about him. The mana weaver matter is something I will directly handle, he said further, addressing the guard. The latter nodded and gave a formal acknowledgement, leaving Kais doorsteps. Kai closed the door and walked back inside, still lost in thoughts. The mana weaver issue was strange since there didn''t seem to be anything out of place in the estate. It meant that the corruption was either artificial or the guard had come in contact with dead mana directly. It could also be other things, but he would have to investigate more for now. In his current state, there were limits to what he could do and a mana weaver appearing in the estate meant that there might be others around. He needed to do something about awakening his Mana Heart first of all. He sat on the little chair in front of the table and thought of one strange thing that recurred in his mind. When he had focused internally, he found that all the mana organs were present. But in the diary, Arzan continuously mentioned that he wasnt a Mage and how if he was, things would have been vastly different. Why couldnt he awaken as a Mage if he has all the organs? Even if his talents were weak, he couldve gotten help from other Mages. Hes a Dukes son, for Heavens sake. Kai scratched his head, pondering over that mystery. He closed his eyes and focused inwardly. He took slow breaths Inhaled and exhaled. The air filling his lungs as his focus started to brush over his Mana Brain and then his Mana Heart, and finally his Mana Veins when he immediately stopped. His breath hitched in his throat when he realised what had happened. There had been a few possibilities he had thought of, but this one was the strangest of them all. Arzan didn''t suffer from some disease or a dead Mana Heart which might have been a common problem to awaken as a Mage. He had been poisoned. 4. Debts and Stuff Poison has been a lethal weapon throughout history. Even Mages, who were more sensitive to their surroundings, were not immune from something like poison. Normal ones might not work on them as they could simply push it out, but Poison Masters had always tried to invent different poisons specifically for Mages. As the strength and the powers of a Mage increased with time, different designs of poison evolved accordingly. They were created with different variations, some strong enough to kill a Mage instantly and some taking their time and being hard to detect until it was too late. Basically, according to the formula that they were made. The worst poisons for Mages weren''t those that would kill them instantly, but those that would make them cripples. Sar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A crippled mage was far more useless than a common person, since even regular work would prove daunting on them. Poison makes things more interesting. Kais thoughts swirled as he breathed in and out. He felt the foreign substance in his body as the air left his lungs. His hand came intact with his stomach as he continued to focus on his body. He moved the small amount of mana he had through his veins, but something blocked it and sent it back. Kai might have just assumed it as a case of mana blockage, if not for his familiarity with the poison. I never thought I would find myself in a body inflicted with Mana Bane. Fate is really something. Kai thought to himself, a weary smile creeping on his face. Images of his childhood popped up, scrambling for food in alleyways and stealing for a living. All the time while dealing with a Mana Bane affliction. Though, this time, it looked like he was dealing with a weaker version of the poison he knew of. It made sense as it was centuries earlier and in the coming time, this poison would be used as one of the basic concoctions for anyone treading the Art of Venom mastery. Its real name wasn''t Mana Bane, but it had been known as that for centuries. It was also carefully planted. If not for him checking his body thoroughly, it would have been hard for him to detect it. Kai inhaled sharply. The poison blocked the rhythmic flow of mana, and stayed there like a block of wall, separating two sides. That also explained why he couldnt do spells even though he had a Mana Heart and was able to sense the lingering mana in the air. But why did no one notice the poison in my veins? The question remained in his head for a solid second. Maybe, just maybe what had happened was that Arzan was labelled a cripple by a Testing Mage who had been careless. No one would have bothered with him after that since it would have seemed like a case of mana blockage instead of poison. Mana surgeries would only start a few centuries later, so he might have been a lost case. Not only that makes sense, but that adds up with his constant worries in the diary. But the truth could be far from what he expected. After all, whoever had injected the poison in him would have taken care of not getting found out. He had a few people in mind for who it might be based on the diary entries, but the poison had been injected way before the Awakening for sure. It had been frozen in place for years now. Whoever it had been, that person couldn''t be his siblings. Arzan was the youngest, but not by much. He doubted newly awakened Mages would have access to such poisons. Though, he knew nobles were a scheming breed. He had come across a few, and it had seldom gone well. Political rivalries of a Duke''s son would be way worse. For now, he had way less information to form a conclusion. Kai frowned and decided to get the poison out of his veins first. One good thing of this being an earlier version of the Mana Bane he knew of was that the veins werent damaged. If Kai had been a few centuries late, there wouldn''t have been any remedy without a major surgery. The current version simply worked to block the flow of mana in his veins. In this state, if Kai tried to awaken as a Mage, the backlash would burst his veins and Mana Heart, killing him instantly. Even the thought of that made him wince internally. He had to be quick now. He knew what was going on inside him, and the only way he could save himself for the future was to do what he had to; remove the poison from his veins. He closed his eyes. The room fell silent as he consciously listened to his rhythmic breathing. He focused on his intention, the subtle hum in the air grew further as he concentrated on pushing the poison out. He used a thin strand of mana and pushed the poison, slowly increasing the mana to put more pressure. He could feel the relentless resistance of the poison, like an inky adversary. Kai struggled but focused harder on pushing it out of his body. The poison inside him fought back, stubborn and malevolent. It had been stuck for too long. He furrowed when the poisons resistance became stronger as he tried. His forehead started covering in sweat, as he used every bit of mana he had. He hadn''t felt like this in years, but having an unawakened heart meant a very low amount of mana which might just be enough to push out the poison, but there was no guarantee. Kai focused harder. Just a bit more. His muscles tensed as he fought back. If someone came in the room, they would think he was simply meditating, but Kai knew he was on a battlefield, every bit of mana in his body fighting to free his veins off the poison. He inhaled deeply and finally, with everything he got, he pushed one last time against the wall of frozen poison. Kai coughed as he felt his energy drained. But he felt a release in his body. His hand covered his mouth as something came up to his throat. A few seconds passed by as Kai crunched down with his head in between his hands and vomited. Gradually, it all soothed down. He opened his eyes. His room reeked a bit and black goo like substance was all around him. He drew in a deep breath, but the very breath had a scent of the poison. He sighed but then looked at his hand to see a black substance covering all of his palm and fingertips. It was Mana Bane. The poison was finally out of his body. Kai felt as if he accomplished something ever since he found himself here. He kept looking at his surroundings. He opened his window and it felt much better. Taking a breath, he felt like his circulation was much better. Focusing on that feeling, he started to inhale and exhale deeply. It was almost as if a pillow of suffocation was lifted that let Kai breath freely. This feels much better, Kai thought while wiping his hand with the napkin that was beside his food plate. But now that theres no barrier in between, maybe I can start developing the first circle. As soon as he thought of the process, he felt weak and was reminded how exhausting it could be for him at the moment. He had used all of his mana and in this state, he doubted he would be able to do anything. He needed a full Mana Heart if he wanted to awaken. The curtain in front of the windows started moving due to the wind, letting the moonlight inside the room. It was almost as if it was signalling him to sleep it off. Kai knew he had no choice. He walked to his bed and didn''t even bother to change his clothes. From the strange ritualistic symbols to the mana weaver to getting the poison out of his heart, it had been exhausting since the moment he became Arzan. He would have loved something like a [Refresh] spell at the moment, but with no such luxury, sleep was his best choice. As soon as he hit the cold velvet, he drifted into the slumber. *** He opened his eyes as a chilly wind hit him. He forgot to close the window last night and he shivered as he got out of his blankets. Rubbing his eyes, he looked around the room to see everything right where they were. The ritual. Arzans diary. Even the chair where he had sat last night. He took a few seconds to think about what had happened. It all hit him slowly, one by onebut in the end, he smiled. At least, he wouldn''t have to live in constant danger to his life from now on. At least until the mana weaver problem didn''t increase. Looking down, the bruises from the ritual were all healed. He still had blood stained underneath the clothes he wore, but nothing that a good wash wouldn''t solve. His hand came up to rub his stubble. He decided as he made note of where he left everything last night. Kai stood up from where he was, and thought of taking a hot bath to clean his body. But as he walked towards drawers, the knock on the door halted his actions. He turned and walked to open the door. The door opened with a creak. Kai saw Claire who stood with a polite smile and some towels and a bucket of water in her hands. Good morning, Lord Arzan. I hope you slept well. Kai nodded, I did. Please leave them inside, he said and motioned to her hands. He let the woman walk in, and took a few steps back. One more thing, Lord Arzan. Knight Killian has requested your presence in the dining room today. Her voice made him turn around and there, she stood with prying eyes. Kai thought about it for a second. Knight Killian. Finally, hed get to meet and see how he was like. A part of him wanted to reject and focus on building the first circle, but it was not good to stall until he was going to act as a recluse. That fit with Arzan''s personality, but he wanted to take a more active approach to things. I will. Kai nodded. I will leave these inside, Claire said as she walked past Kai and towards the door that had been on the opposite side of the room. So, that is the bathroom. Kai gave a glance in that direction but walked back to the desk where the diary was still open. He wanted to keep it somewhere unnoticeable as he knew he should get the room cleaned. He stepped closer to the drawer filled with clothes and buried it underneath all the tunics. When he was done, he heard the bathroom door close. Claire was holding a bunch of clothes which he assumed had been used prior. Your breakfast will be ready when you are down, Lord Arzan, she paused and her cheeks went reddish before questioning, Do you need assistance with the bath, my Lord? She questioned and Kai immediately realised that it was the norm to get an assistant for even a shower for nobles. It felt like such an embarrassing thing to him as a Magus. He immediately shook his head. I will be fine. Claire gave a half-bow with all the clothes in her hand and walked herself out of the room. But before she could reach the door, Kai called her and she stiffened. Can you clean the room while I go have my breakfast? he asked as his eyes went to the ritual on the floor, then to the black stains on some areas. The black substance had evaporated, but marks had been left behind. Claires eyes followed as she saw how everything in the room was dirty and disorganised. She nodded her head quickly. Yes, I can, my Lord. You can leave now, he said and noticed how she walked out of the room. By her steps and her behaviour, it was obvious that she was still shaky around him. Maybe it''s his title, but he didnt have to worry about it at all. As long as she keeps her mouth shut, things would work fine. Kai walked to the bathroom to wash his face. When he was inside, he was met with an average size room, filled with a luxurious bathroom experience. The bathtub was in the corner of the room. And near the entrance, he had a big mirror with a basin and a pitcher. The steam that filled the bathroom made him realise that it was all warm water just what he needed. Kai stepped inside and faced the mirror. Faint surprise was written in his face as he looked back at his reflection. His facial features were sharper than before nose, thin eyes, and even the lips. They were all well refined. Kai traced the scar that was on his left eyebrow from his fingertips. Unlike his previous lifetime, he now had black hair. It wasn''t long and no one would notice it if he hid it with hair, but the scar seemed to be from some childhood injury. His eyes then fell on his body. I need to run a few laps daily, he said and stared at the belly that showed that he was well fed unlike most in the estate. He needed to put more physical effort once he got over awakening his powers. The stubble and the pieces of grown hair that was hanging around his ear in his face needed a trim. But it was not the time. Kai tugged at his hair, getting a good measurement of how long they were. He has never had hair this long. He continued to stare at himself for a few more seconds, taking every single detail on his body wanting to keep them in his memory. Although he wasn''t ugly by any measure in his last life, Arzan had way better genes in the physical aspect. The more he looked at himself, the dried up blood in his body distracted him. It was everywhere. Removing his clothes, he kept them beside the basin, on the floor. Kai washed his face and the water dripped down his body. He sighed at the sensation of hot water. Heavens, this feels good! Kai started rubbing the blood stains in his body one after another and washed his face, feeling relaxed after a long time. *** Kai donned new clothes after getting out of the bathroom and felt much better. Knight Killian, time to meet you. He seemed to be in charge around the grounds, thus, Kai had all the more reasons to be curious. But there was one problem. He didnt know where the dining room was. Cluelessly, he walked out of the room. My luck does work. Claire stood in front of his room with cleaning materials. She had been waiting there for him to walk outside. If Kai could express his emotions, he knew hed have a big, fat grin on his face, but he had to be subtle. The breakfast is ready, Lord Arzan, she said while looking at the floor. Okay, lets head there. I have a few things to ask you, Kai ordered, hoping she wouldn''t question and after a second more, she nodded. As expected, she started walking in the front without questioning. A smile crept to Kais face as they walked. Its a success. Hows the atmosphere of the estate after the mana weaver attack? He asked, noticing a few other maids doing their work. They bowed to him as they walked. People are still scared and it''s been spreading to the city. The rumours of you defeating a mana weaver are everywhere. Is that so? He raised an eyebrow. Yes, though, some people are saying that it''s a farce since well, you are not a Mage. She flinched while speaking and only calmed once Kai didn''t seem offended. They took a few turns after reaching the second floor that led to the dining room. Since he wasn''t in a rush this time, he was able to notice the details more clearly. The dining room was massive. The rectangular table in the middle was already occupied with a few guards. They were clad in their usual uniforms, making noises talking in whispers probably fearful of a brooding figure that sat on the far end, clearly standing out. It seemed like they were directly under Killian or at least had some sort of a privilege that other guards didn''t have. Most nobles he had seen would never eat at the same table as guards. There were some other people, especially one who wore glasses and was in a robe. He also noticed the guard who had reported about the mana weaver among them. The maids were preparing different food that included fresh bread and soup. The fireplace that was lit beneath the dining table stole his attention for a brief second. On the sides of the room, there were large windows that were closed. He walked towards the table after looking around for not more than three seconds. As soon as he was in front of the table, people dropped their conversations, bowing to him in respect. Have a seat, Kai said and took the seat in the middle of the table that was mostly reserved for the most important person in the room. As soon as he sat, two maids walked towards him and started serving bread to his plate. Bread, meat and some fruits were on the table. He ignored all of it and looked at the man who was seated on the opposite side of the table. He was a tall, muscular man. He looked stern and scary with blonde hair and a scar that ran down one of his cheeks. Kai didn''t have to think twice to know who he was. He gave Kai the impression of one of the Enforcers that would take on several Mages at once, but Kai couldn''t feel any mana beyond what a normal person would have from him. Actually, everyone in the room was normal. Lord Arzan, we need to talk. Kai nodded and took a bite from his bread. He kept his utensils away and leaned backwards, giving who he assumed to be Killian his undivided attention. His goal was to appear calm and confident in front of him. I need to not give him any suspicions. He''s not a mage, but is clearly important. What is it? Kai questioned. The Tradeheart merchant company is threatening to take over the farm lands if we can''t pay back the debt, Killian said without a pause. He continued to gaze at Kai, looking for a response. Initially, Kai assumed it was about the mana weaver attack, but it seemed to be completely different. What debt is he talking about now? 5. Tradeheart Merchant Company? Tradeheart merchant company? And why had Arzan taken a debt? More than being confused about this entire situation, he was curious. His silence dragged on for a few more seconds. He wanted to know more about the situation they were in before speaking, as he lacked a lot of information. Kai didn''t want to give away his cluelessness, so he simply focused on eating. The bread wasn''t particularly appetising, but he''d had worse. We have to do something about the 10k gold debt. Either pay it back or come to some sort of settlement. The interest rates are already high up, but I doubt that man would be willing to hear anything from us. Its been months already. Knight Killian went on saying while the rest of the room fell into a deep silence. We were barely able to pay the interest and the representative from the company simply threatened us yesterday and demanded that we hand over the farm lands. If not that, then the mines. Those greedy bastards! Lord Arzan, we need to find a solution. We are in no position to give away valuable resources for your personal loan, Killian said, looking at him with a stare that demanded an answer. Kai kept his head low and took a sip of the water. Personal loan? 10k gold coins? What was Arzan even doing with this much money? Questions started popping in his mind. Even high end prostitutes won''t take so much. Frowning, he wondered what to say. He had no reply to that, so he decided to answer back with a question. When will they be coming back to take the debt back? After two weeks, my lord. Killian didn''t answer. Instead, it was the man sitting in front of him in robes and glasses that he had taken note before. He was sitting calmly and quietly, but he could see his hands shaking below the table. His face was weary and experienced, full of wrinkles. The man gave the impression of someone who had heard things, yet hadn''t been in danger himself. He had grey hair and a clean shaven look. I was the one who handled the meeting, my lord. It''s sufficient to say it went worse than expected. What expectations were you even having, Francis? Killian asked. They have acted brash every single time. A few weeks back, one of their bodyguards even kicked a guard in the estate. They are pretty sure that they won''t have any more business with us after this. Word goes around, Killian. Everyone in the neighbouring territory knows we arent doing well. Our yields havent been great lately, and the citys on the brink of an economic breakdown. We cant just magic up gold. It will take us at least a few more months, most probably even a year to get things to normal if we start taking care of our problems. The winter is not helping with the crops, and to get everything backwe need more time. The old man looked at Kai. His words were clear and straight. It gave the necessary context to Kai and he wasn''t surprised by a few things. The maids, staff and even the guards looked like they weren''t getting their fill. If they weren''t fed well working at the lord''s estate, he wondered how the common populace were living. Aside from him, most people seemed to be malnourished. Kai stayed silent as he thought back to Claire''s eyes shining looking at the gold coin. He grabbed another piece of bread and munched on it. He scanned through the room, seeing how the guards continued to eat, but their ears were perked up. They were paying close attention to the conversation, even though they didnt say a word. I agree with what youre sayingC Knight Killian started to reply. But soon, he was cut short. The Tradeheart merchant company is known to be harsh on nobles who aren''t doing well. I have dealt with them before, Francis said, his voice low. He was barely able to stop it from shaking with anger. They are vultures that try to act innocent until they think they won''t get the money back on time. We could only cooperate with them since we have contracts signed up. Though, we would need to find some mutual agreement as the estate simply doesn''t have that much money. We need more time. He adjusted his glasses with a frown. It didn''t seem like he liked the company based on his reaction. Kai also didn''t get a good impression of them based on what he was hearing. They seemed like typical merchant companies that would start thinking of themselves as bigger than even nobility. Kai was never a fan of such people. Knight Killian nodded, understanding the situation. Will they even give us more time? I don''t think so. It''s the right opportunity for them to take over the farm lands. Like you said, they are greedy vultures. By now, Kai had a good idea of who Francis was. Based on his look and how he talked, he was a scholar, probably an administrator handling the estate. From the information that was in the diary, Arzan had been pushed to the city suddenly, so he doubted he had time to go over things on how to run a place. Having an administrator made complete sense to get him used to things. Though, he doubted Arzan had tried to take charge of things. They will give us time if we put our weight down. We could sell a few valuables from the estate and I think the standing of Lord Arzan will do the rest. They aren''t idiots to antagonise nobles completely based on debt. Will we be able to pay it back with enough time? I don''t know, Francis said, his words almost getting stuck in his throat. We would have to do something about our basic problems and if we can solve them, things would start to look up. It won''t be easy since there''s hardly any support from other nobles in the area. Uneasiness lingered within Kai as he heard more and more. He had misread Azrans background. Although he belonged to the line of a Duke, it seemed as if he was more or less on his own. Otherwise, nearby nobles would do everything to do a favour on a Duke''s son. The only reason they were ignoring him might be because of the succession of the Duke''s title to his brother who he clearly did not have a pleasant relationship with. What do you think, Lord Arzan? Youve been silent. Killian brought him back from his thoughts and he realised that he had almost finished his food. A few heads turned to look at Kai curiously. He needed to think of something. I believe that breakfast is not the place to talk about matters related to work. Why dont we first finish breakfast, and then Ill take a look at the records before deciding what we should do. His words seemed to surprise Killian as he raised his eyebrows. Kai expected him to retort back, but he simply sighed. Well then. I will leave you and Francis to it. I have other matters to handle anyway. Francis from the corner of the table nodded, looking up at Kai. It seemed like he wanted to say something, but didn''t dare to utter it out. Silence descended as the table went quiet. His mind was a mess as he pondered upon the new problem he had encountered suddenly. From everything he knew of, Arzan seemed like someone who was destined for a bad end from the start. Though he had been unlucky with his Mana Veins being blocked, he had clearly mismanaged the estate given to him. To distract himself, he looked at Killian, Well, about the mana weaver, any signs of corruption from its family? he asked. Not yet. They are in a cell and being fed, but there''s no sign of any corruption on them for now. We are monitoring them. If there''s something, then it will come out sooner or later. Mana weavers dont like to be kept in closed spaces. We are also using Syphon stones in case they change, Knight Killian paused and looked at him with strange eyes before continuing, I heard from my men that you subdued the mana weaver in no time. Pardon me. I assumed that you stopped training when you were fifteen around the age when the basic sword training should end. You didn''t continue to train after that. His words made Kai realise that Killian knew Arzan for a long time. He wouldn''t know whether he had stopped training or not otherwise. He might be one of the retainers that had shifted with him straight from the Duke''s household. He felt the opposite from Francis who seemed to be in this city for a long time. They said it only took you a few seconds. I''m not able to understand how you were able to do that. Killian looked at Kai suspiciously. It was a newly transformed weaver. Certainly not at the peak of its power, Kai said, already knowing such questions would come up. Still, you put a monster to sleep. I beg your pardon, but I believed only Mages could achieve such a feat. I got it from a book on Mana Weavers. They have a nerve on the back of their neck. If you press it, it could send them into slumber. It won''t work on fully transformed individuals, but the mana weaver had just mutated. I had to take a chance. Kai doubted the technique was widespread. It could be that it hadn''t even been discovered yet. Such information had only come up after there had been a major move to study the creatures. It had resulted in a few things Kai didn''t want to think about, but it had largely benefited humankind as a whole. Why am I not aware of something like that? If theres such a thing, I believe every knight should know. It will be very useful at these tiring times. The guards turned their heads towards Kai as Killian spoke. They were all curious about how and when he learnt something like that. If it was really that simple, they might just be able to deal with the Mana Weavers. I picked it up from a book back at the household. I don''t think it''s famous enough. You can spread it among the guards, just in case we have more sightings of these creatures, Kai said, glancing over to the guards. Killian nodded at those words. It seemed like he wanted to ask more on how the confrontation had happened, but Kai was sure he''d heard everything from his subordinates. Instead, Killian changed topics. I understand you got mana weavers weakness, but why haven''t we killed it yet? Lord Arzan, we can''t afford to take chances. It''s common knowledge that mana weavers corrupt their surroundings, Knight Killian said, looking like he wanted to pick up a sword and cut off the head of the weaver himself. Francis and the guards also nodded. It seemed like Kai had really gone against the normal method, which in comparison was easier, from what he intended to do. Still, he didn''t want unnecessary blood on his hands. No, we cant do that. As soon as Kai rejected, the knight furrowed deeply. He probably wanted to know why they couldnt kill a threat to them as quickly as possible. Give me some time. I have something better to do with It rather than killing. Time is a luxury that we dont have, and cant afford, Knight Killians dissatisfaction was written on his face as he talked. What if the mana weaver got out of the chains and started attacking everyone again? It''s your and your guards job to keep it in chains. I trust you to do your job well. As for time, give me a few days and you will know what I plan to do. Killian opened his mouth, but instead of talking, he stuffed a piece of bread in it. The rest of the breakfast went as silently as possible. No one spoke and as soon as it was over, Killian left with the guards after bowing to Kai. Once he was alone with Francis, he turned towards him. Lord Arzan, you said you wanted to take a look at the records? Francis questioned as he was almost done with his food. He wiped his hands from the napkin and stood up. Kai nodded and they started walking back to wherever he kept the records. Francis was a short, stout, old man. But his walk was rather fast. With his shoes tapping against the floor, he started taking the staircase that initially led Kai to the diner. Are things really that bad? Kai asked before hesitating a bit. He didn''t want to sound clueless, but again, Arzan seemed like someone who kept to his room and didn''t care about anything else. He doubted he knew of the situation of the city, or he wouldn''t have taken on such a large debt. It''s the worst I have ever seen. Francis replied with a frown and Kai could only ponder one thing. It couldnt be that bad, can it? *** Kai''s face scrunched up and his eyebrows twitched as he stared at the discoloured book. The words written with black ink on yellow pages made him frown. It was really that bad! As you can see, Lord- Francis started to say, but stopped as he glanced at Kai''s expression. The economy of the city was in hot water. The farmland yield had plummeted, taxes werent enough, and even signs of famine lingered. The debt is just the cherry on top. What was Arzan even doing? His assessment of Arzan went even lower once he realised the state of affairs in the city. Why wasnt anything done about this earlier? Kai inquired, wanting to know why theyd let things get worse. The numbers were much worse than Kai had expected. We tried, Your Lordship. But, the previous lordship, a Baron, died two years back from a heart attack. His wife died before him, and umm, Francis hesitated before continuing to discuss the previous Lords unfortunate fate. His only son was in the army and perished. Before you came here, this city It was almost abandoned. Francis shook his head, sighing deeply as he continued to remember the situation they were in. Bandit attacks increased a lot since retainers left for better opportunities. We used to have a few Mages in the service, but once they left things became worse, he huffed. Our forces are too small to deal with them. All that is just the insult to the injury. And then, Your Lordship got here. You were mostly spending time in your room, with no intention to change any- Francis immediately looked down. He understood the mistake he made. Please, forgive me for running my mouth. Kai didn''t say anything. If anything, like he had assumed before, Francis seemed to be in the city for a long time. His features matched guards and maids around the estate, so he might as well be from around the area. He also clearly cared about the estate. What about the coal and iron mines? A lot of the revenue used to come from there, right? he probed. Francis cleared his throat and nodded. One of the mines, unfortunately, fell into the hands of a bandit group. Theyre the ones calling the shots. The other one, well, its run dry. A lot of miners lost their jobs due to that, taking a hit on the population of the city. Kai sighed. From the documents, it seemed like a ton of people left for the city after the mines closed up. He felt anger about bandits capturing one of them, but he wasn''t in a position to capture them back. How big is the bandit group? he asked. They are militants, formerly drafted in the Black Rose War. Once they returned, they became bandits. Around 100 of them. It''s a whole band. We don''t have enough forces to go against them. We have, but if we took a significant force to fight them, other bandit groups in the area might try to take advantage of it. Knight Killian wanted to have a go against them, but you refused three months back. Francis promptly said, making Kais frown worse. Maybe Arzan didn''t want to put himself into danger? Either way, it was a shame that a bandit group ran around like this in their land. He closed the book that was in his hand and kept it on the wooden table. He pushed it forward towards the administrator and leaned back. If I can get the mines back, then maybe we will be on the road to recovery. Still, it won''t be easy and quick. Kai pondered over it until he recalled something. Wasn''t there a Mage that Claire had mentioned before? A Mage could easily handle such a situation if theyre properly trained. So, why hasnt he done anything? Francis, didnt Mage Actra at least try to help? What is he doing? Kai questioned. The old man chuckled. It was an angry, sarcastic chuckle. Your Lordship, that Mage is drowning the city with his alchemical research. He doesnt lift a finger and it is already reported that he was rude to a few maids. He doesn''t try to help at all. Kais eyebrows raised. Is that so? He wanted to meet the Mage for obvious reasons. Even so, there were some answers Kai needed first. Uh, this might come out rather odd, but why did I require such a huge loan? My memory is running low. Kais hand met with his chin as he acted to be in deep thought. Francis was quick to reply. You needed some materials for something. Lord Actra was aware of it. I was not informed of the specifics. Kais shoulders tensed as a brief silence spread between the two. The things he kept hearing about the Mage continued to get worse and worse. He had to think fast to get over the debt first of all. Arzan had messed up by a lot and if he was going to take his place, maybe he needed to start from his duties as a lord of this region. It seemed tiring, but authority wasn''t bad in his opinion, especially if he could take things under his control. Looking at Francis who sat upright, he said, I''m sorry. I haven''t been good enough in my duties, but I will be changing it from now on. Next time the guy from the Tradeheart merchant company comes, call me. I will be doing something about the debt soon. Saying that, he stood up and left the room, not waiting to take a good look at the shocked expression on the face of Francis who looked like he had seen a dragon hoarding gold in his bedroom. Sarch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 6. First Circle Kai had mixed feelings while he was taking the stairs to reach his room. There were a lot of questions in his head, lots of things to do. From the Mana Weaver to the debt, there were problems to solve, but first of all, he needed to awaken his Mana heart. Without it, he was weak and severely limited in what he could do. The last time he had gone through awakening was decades back and back then, his master had guided him step by step as it was the tradition, but he could easily achieve it on his own with years of experience. As soon as he entered his room, he saw Claire reaching the upper shelves that were on the corner of the room and wiping the dust off with a cloth. She looked to be done with the rest of the room and at that, she had done a marvellous job. The blood stains that were scattered on the floor were no longer there. The black filth that Kai spit was completely cleaned. He looked around the room and smiled. As he scanned the room, he saw the buckets of dirty water that stayed on the side. Compared to how messy it looked before, everything was squeaky clean. She must have been focused to not notice him, so he cleared his throat to let her know he was inside. Claire swiftly turned around and looked at him. Kai simply nodded with a satisfied face. Good job, he said and gave one final look to the room. Claire nodded in return. It''s all done, Lord Arzan. If you need anything more, let me know. She quickly collected the cloth in her hand and moved towards the opposite room to lift the bucket. Kai watched as she lifted the bucket full of water with shaky hands and turned around to leave the room. Before she could leave, his voice stopped her. There is something. Claire, can you stand guard outside and make sure Im not disturbed? I don''t want anyone to knock on my door for the next hour, Kai asked. If he got disturbed during the awakening, he might just make a mistake. Since he was already relying on Claire, he might as well use her as a primary maid. Okay, I will be right outside. She said and with the heavy load of things in both of her hands, she walked through the opened doors and closed them after putting the bucket down. Now alone, Kai took one last look at the room. He walked to the middle of the room and sat on the floor. Right where the ritual was done before, but the evidence of any ritual was long gone. A part of him wanted to keep it up to study more, but the risk of anyone seeing it like Claire was too high. He could simply look for similar symbols later on. As soon as he settled on the floor, he inhaled deeply. The pure mana filled air filled his nostrils, and lungs, and then, found its way to his Mana heart. Gradually, his focus on his Mana heart grew. He could sense how filled his Mana heart was compared to last night. He knew that there was no better time to attempt an awakening. As he took his next breath in, he closed his eyes and let his mind wander to his internal organs. Each breath filled his organs with mana and Kai almost lost himself in the sensation, before pulling himself back. Regulating his mana through the Mana heart, he noticed something. Although Arzan was mostly useless, his Mana heart was at a higher level than average. After reaching the first circle, it could easily generate 12x mana compared to an average human. The normal was 10x, so it was pretty much a big advantage. Such cores were hard to come by and he had the potential to at least be a Savant level Mage one day, if he had worked hard and not died in an unfortunate accident. The Mana heart was even higher than what he had in his previous life. No wonder he was a Duke''s son. Nobles usually marry skilled Mages among themselves, so it would pass in their bloodline. After all, a Mage son was highly likely to be a Mage too. He briefly wondered whether the poisoning had been someone fearing Arzan''s talent as a mage, but he dismissed it. It wasn''t time to think about such things. Arzan was considerably late to awaken his Mana heart. Normally, Mages would start their training at the age of fifteen years old. Still, the level of his Mana heart would make up for the lost time. With Kai''s experience and spells he knew of, he could even reach the second circle in the next few months and gain a better understanding of what elements suit his new body. Though, he didn''t know the level of Mages of this era. It would still be a time where spells were less developed, so he wondered about how they operated. Deciding to give a visit to this Mage Actra, Kai thought back to the time he had awakened. Back then, his master had helped him absorb all the ambient mana in the air because his control with it was just not good. Now, he had better control and also, a new method to awaken his core. A method he had only found out a decade after his awakening and had lamented on missing out on it. Now, he could finally use it. The way to develop the first circle was simple. He had to let the mana flow inside his Mana heart continuously and with focused intent, move it in circles through the Mana heart. With that, the organ would ignite while developing the first circle around the core permanently. Kai inwardly slapped himself as he remembered how it took him more than 12 hours to absorb enough mana to develop the first circle back then. He had troubles with absorbing mana from the surroundings and only later down the line, he had improved. Now, he could do it in well under an hour. Especially with the Quin Method of Awakening. I only found the method in an old ruin. It never got popularised, though it''s not easy either. Normal methods of awakening would generally amp the mana generation upto 10x unless one has a higher level Mana heart like Arzan. It was a basic number for most Mages, and even though people had tried to increase it, it had become too dangerous for young Mages to keep up with. Quin Method of Awakening was also an experiment to increase the mana generation in the first circle and one of the rare ones to succeed, managing to amp up to 15x. Unfortunately, Quin, the Mage who developed it had been a recluse and he had died before he could share it with the world and no one had checked with him to even give him a funeral since he was working in secret. Kai had found his skeleton and research in a ruin. It had been a strange sight for him, but now, it was going to help him out. He inhaled deeply, letting his emotions sink in. With the breath he took in, pure mana filled his lungs. Then, Kai intentionally let mana run through his heart in a circle, filling it as much as possible. He took another long, deep breath, and did the same, filling the Mana heart again and again. S~ea??h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Soon, the Mana that was running inside his Heart started to speed up. Kai felt the particles brush against his insides as the inhalation and exhalation brought in enough mana to keep up with the pace. Quin Method of Awakening simply focused on taking in as much mana as possible from the surroundings and to spin it in an anticlockwise direction. It would make the Mana Heart heat up and expand more, increasing the rate of generation. So, Kai pulled as much mana as possible. An advantage of being in a world with abundant mana was that he had a lot of pull from. He kept taking from his surroundings and soon, Mana heart started to warm up. He could feel the energy he absorbed moving within him in circles after circles. Slowly, the rate of generation increased. From 2x to 4x to 7x to 9x. It was slow and gradual, but Kai felt all of it and gritted his teeth as an insurmountable pressure daunted on his shoulders. It felt like his heart was going to burst, but he kept going on. Taking more and more mana, he reached the level of generation he desired and went even beyond that. Next thing he knew was that the warmth turned into something better. Kais hands visibly relaxed as the first circle awakened. Finally! He cried out, taking deep breaths and clutching his chest. Not only had he been able to improve his mana generation by leaps and bounds, he had managed to get it to 17x instead of 15x. It was probably due to the level of his core, but nevertheless, it was the most pleasant thing that could happen to him. Sweet trickled down his forehead as he smiled. He finally had a permanent circle of mana around his Mana heart that was generating way more mana than before. He opened his eyes slowly. The feeling of power flowing within him gave him goosebumps as he sat up. It feels like forever since I felt so good. He took a deep breath in. Inhaling all of what happened in the previous minutes. Astrum Octavia! Kai said aloud for him to hear and raised his hand, the palm facing towards the fireplace. Last time, the spell hadn''t worked, but this time, he had an awakened Mana heart. He felt the mana rush into his hand, powering up the simple spell structure he conjured and activating the spell to fire up the centre of the fireplace. It only took more than a second. Aha! He looked at the logs of wood that burnt with fire. Kais eyes glimpsed with happiness as he realised that he was no longer a Non Mage. He could slowly develop his circles to become a Magus again. But before that all, he had things to do. Standing up from where he was, he rubbed his hands in his tunic. The warmth of the room already got under his skin, making him feel cosy. The fireplace looked much alive, and Kais inner emotions were just as similar. After taking a good look at the simple spell he casted, he was satisfied. He needed to let Claire know that she didnt need to guard the door anymore. With a confident stride, Kai walked out of the room. Creak! Kai stepped outside his door. Claire- As soon as he was about to tell her she could leave, he saw her. On the floor. She laid unconscious. Initially, he wondered if there was some sort of an attack again, but he soon understood what had happened. He sighed. Claire mustve stayed too close to the door that he had accidentally pulled in her mana as well to awaken his core. *** The window of the library cast a dim sunlight over the neatly arranged shelves. The library wasnt extensive, but it had a few various subjects that Kai was interested in History and Geography. Both could help him get a better understanding about the city. Kai stood among the rows, his fingers tracing the titles of different books. His brow furrowed ever so slightly, being in depth of his thoughts. His mind continuously raged the questions about how he was going to deal with the massive debt that hung around their heads for the time being. It was going to be a pain. The thought itself made him want to run away and simply focus on attaining more power, but it didn''t feel right. Moreover, the advantage of using his powers as a noble and a lord lingered in his mind. If he solved this one problem, he could use it to get more fundings for his projects. Fundings were always necessary for what he had in mind and this was the easiest way to get it. Kai observed Claires assistance from afar. She herself was in deep thought as she continued to pick a few books from the shelf. She turned to look at the back cover page and the front, and then shifted it to the other stack she had built. He had ordered her to find a few history books. Though, now that he thought about it, he had no idea whether Claire was even literate. Shaking his head, he looked at her. Claire, Kai called her name. She quickly turned around with another book still in her hand. How are the people living in the city these days? She handed the book over to Kai and took time to think about his question. She paused but replied, The cold bites everyone, my lord. In my neighbourhood, one man succumbed to the harsh winter. Aside from that, the food is short during this time of the year. From what I''ve heard here and there, a lot of people are planning to migrate. Some even went already. Kai thought of what she said for a moment. The winter was the biggest problem for the people. It had always been for centuries. Even in his time, winter hadn''t been particularly nice, especially with Snow Fiends and Ice Wyverns coming out from their slumber. Then why not use Heat stones? Is it because theyre a bit costly? I believe that a collective effort can afford larger ones that a whole street can use. People might find some relief. He let his thoughts out, but soon halted as he saw Claires perplexed look. Her frown deepened as Kai stopped talking and she said, Im not familiar with Heat stones. I haven''t heard of them before. Do they alleviate colds? Her weird look made Kai blink his eyes. Never heard about stones that emit warmth? People use it to stay warm, especially during winter. Claires eyes fell back onto Kai. The look on her face stayed right where it was. She had no idea what that meant or how that was used. Kai was sure of it. I have never heard of such a thing- People just endure the weather apart from fireplaces? Kai questioned back. He was, too, confused with what she was saying. Claire nodded, giving an unfortunate smile. It was then that he realised that the Heat stones werent invented yet. Even if they were, they weren''t as widespread. 7. “…A Mage, Lord Arzan?” As soon as Claire handed him a book that was on the bottom of the stack, Kais attention went to the drawings that he could see from the cheap, oily papers. He dusted off the front page, and opened the book. The yellowed pages were filled with lines and dots, of where he lived. A map was drawn with markings of places. He was currently situated in the Northern Continent which was the most prosperous continent. That hadn''t changed in any era. Though, people have tried to explore the rest of the world, particularly places in the Southern Continent. From the corner of his eyes, he saw Claires curious gaze lingering in between him and the maps. He brought his attention back to the map. On the parchment map that was on his hand, he saw the details, carefully drawn, showing the tapestry of Eldorania, the world as they knew it. Kais finger lifted to trace the lines of the Northern continent. The land was divided into fiefdoms and kingdoms. It was quite the sight to see. The patterns of dots changed from one area to another, marking territories in between. He slowly drew his finger towards the Lancephil Kingdom. It was surrounded with a few other kingdoms that had their own share of areassome big, and comparatively, some were small. There were places that should be entirely underwater, but right now, they were territories of rulers. Kai also noted a few barren lands and other places that had fallen to mana corruption, but in this era, that hasn''t happened yet. He turned his focus back to the Lancephil Kingdom. The territories were a patchwork quilt of royal decrees and noble inheritances. It was filled with bare forests and waters, being a kingdom with tons of dungeons and an interesting diversity of monsters. Beginning the map with the corner of The Nexus Delta, where rivers converge, mirrored the canal system that Kai followed through. Azure sanctum, born of Veiled Cascades, was a distant cousin to the Elder Lake that fed the ancestral stream. He looked at the details of the Whispering river, it was snaking through the Sylvan Enclave, supporting the Nexus Delta and moving through the Azure Sanctum. The road looked like a lifeline mirroring the canal, it clearly guided the travellers through the landscapes. There were a few hills and forests one could meet if they followed the road. The villages, like those on the map, dotted the banks of the main river, facing the canopies and the wooden land housing, where Kai lived. As he continued to analyse the boundaries of the Sylvan Enclavethe territory he was in, he couldnt help but draw a parallel to the Duke, pointing to the Western edge where the land met the Eastern forest. Claire, where does the territory of Veralt end? Kai questioned, showing her the map, so she could point it out. Claire took a good look at the map. Her finger lingered over the City as she mumbled things to herself. In her head, she looked to be calculating the territories along with the dotted map. Slowly, her fingers went to the line of trees that were far away, tracing the area where the boundaries of the territory ended. Kai nodded and looked down. Just next to his territory, the Duke''s one was situated. If he had to travel there, it would probably take over a week. Sar?h the N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The Duke must have had authority over the city for quite some time. With Arzan being the new Baron of the territory, he knew that despite being connected with the Duke, he was not entirely under him. Still, the Duke had considerable influence over Veralt. Kai bore his eyes to the map further. He saw how the lands were connected to the distant mountains south of the Vasper forest, which led to a stream that was flowing towards a salt lake to the east. It was right where the map ended. The territory was quite the sight with forest, lakes and a lot of villagers sprinkled around. Thinking about something, he looked up at the maid. Claire, he called her out, who was now putting a few books back on the shelves. Are you certain that you have never even heard of something similar to the heating stones I was asking about earlier? he questioned. Um Claire halted. They provide warmth during the cold season? Yes, they come in various shapes and sizes. But theyre used to provide warmth. Keep one of them in the room and it will heat up. She frowned as she looked to be in deep thought. I once heard about something similar in Lavonia Kingdom-'''' Kai looked down at the map, pointing out the place. It was far west with the two kingdoms having considerable distance between them. -Theyve had things to keep them warm during harsh snow. It could be something similar to that Heat stone like Your Lordship mentioned. Kai looked at her. From whom did you hear it? A travelling merchant. But Im not sure if any of those things match the description you explained. The only thing common was that they kept the people warm during cold nights. I heard the Lavonia kingdom is cursed to be frozen always, so they apply all sorts of things to warm them up. Though, they were not stones, from what I remember, she said, with an apologetic look. Kai nodded and fell into his thoughts. From Claire''s words, it didn''t seem like they had been invented yet. To him, it felt like they had always been a part of civilization, so he never thought about where they came from and who invented them. Maybe, it had been a Mage who had enough of the cold bothering him, so he had decided to enchant stones. Or it could be something completely different. Either way, it felt like an opportunity for Kai. If they weren''t really developed yet, then couldn''t he be the one to do that? He might even be able to alleviate his citizens of the cold and maybe make some good profit on the side. After all, he needed money to pay back the debt and a product like Heat stones would appeal to everyone. Some nobles might even pay a hefty sum for it. The problem was whether he could develop them. Heat stones were common, but they weren''t natural. They were a result of a lot of specific enchantments on stones that would make them heat up and warm the environment. At the first circle, Kai doubted he could do a lot of enchantments, especially when his knowledge of them was pretty basic. Maybe he would be able to develop one, but the quality of it won''t be great. He also wouldn''t be able to mass produce them with its current mana pool. I need to do some research first. If it''s successful, I could at least pay off the debt. Deciding on developing Heat stones, Kai took a deep breath. This was going to be his first project in this world. *** Kai balled up the third paper in his hand and threw it to the corner of the room. Looking down on the table, he had drawn a few pictures of Heat stones and how they worked. The type of enchantments that were used in them were very intricate with different types of Seals involved. It was also a big problem for him. First of all, only a basic enchantment would take a sizable amount of mana. To top it off, Kai needed to overlap it with other enchantments in a way that the Seals don''t interfere with each other. That was a hectic job in itself. Seals were symbols used to enchant things and Kai hadn''t studied them a lot, but their meanings could easily change if they overlapped each other and the effect could cease to be or worse, it would give a completely different effect. He briefly recalled someone getting an enchanted flame sword from a third rated Enchanter which had ended up exploding in his hands, parts of it cutting off his neck. Kai felt confused as he kept drawing Seals he knew of, trying to recall everything from his classes on them. Sadly, it hadn''t been a Mage Art he had gravitated towards. He didn''t know the specific ones used to make Heat stones, but he could make do with similar ones that he knew of. Though, mana was going to be tight. The mana absorption enchantment would take the most out of me. How am I even going to carve the ignition enchantment? Kai muttered with a frown. His options were severely limited. He could draw up one single complex enchantment and hope that it works. Though, he didn''t even know where to begin with that. He drew up a figure of a smaller stone with enchantments on all sides of it, but even with his mana generation, the total mana pool just wasn''t enough for him to make more than two of these heat stones. If he pushed himself, maybe three. That was if he didn''t make any mistakes and everything went as he wished. Just by the experience of his life, Kai knew his luck wasn''t that good. He needed a way to either exponentially increase his mana pool or lower the enchantments on the Heat stone while making the same effect. Both of these things felt impossible to do at the moment and Kai scratched his head before sighing. He needed more time to think about it. He grabbed all his drawings and piled them up in an order. Keeping them aside on the table, he stood up. I will think about it later. He shook his head and walked out of his room, It had been quite some time since he wanted to take a look at the Mana Weaver. Rather than thinking about the Heat stone, he would rather deal with it. As Kai took the stairs down, he was met with the same portraits and collections of weaponries. The maids and a few workers who were around bowed when they noticed him. He didn''t stop and kept walking, trying to get an idea of the whole estate. Claire hadn''t been around when he left the room or it would have been easy. Now, he was left alone, trying to find the way to the cells. He wandered here and there before his eyes landed on someone familiar. The guard who came to his room on the first day, stood with his spear in the corridor. He seemed to be taking a break, looking relaxed as he gazed outside the window. Perfect. Kai smiled and took long strides towards him. The guard heard footsteps and looked to his right only to find Kai walking towards him. He straightened up immediately and said, Lord Arzan. I walk to take a look at the Mana Weaver in the cells. Lead me there. Okay. They walked through the corridor and took a few turns. Kai did his best to remember the layout of the whole estate as they walked. He also noticed more and more guards as they walked. A lot of them seemed surprised seeing him in this part of the estate. They only stopped once they reached a metallic door. The bars were rusted, and it was a sharp contrast to the rest of the estate with wooden doors with carvings on them. As the guard opened the door, the dim light from the flash torched the stairs. It seemed like the cells were really like a castle dungeon. Did the Weaver wake up? Kai asked as they took the steps down. It did wake up, but screamed on top of Its lungs until it went back to sleep. It was thrashing around and we had a scare, the guard said as he walked ahead of him. Kai nodded. That was expected since he had used a simple technique. When was the last time it made noise? Just a few hours back. But now it''s restrained, barely moving. We thought it might actually break the cell for how vicious it was acting. The guard said, his voice shaking a bit. The stairs ended and they reached the ground. Kai saw no other guard standing there, probably because of the fear of corruption from the Mana Weaver. This way, the guard turned to the left as they both walked inside. The cells were very different from the rest of the castle. The unevened stones on the walls, the dust covering the ground and the putrid smell coming from everywhere all made him want to get out of here as soon as possible. He saw empty cells all around and it didn''t seem like they kept the prisoners here. Maybe there was some other facility for them. Kai''s senses heightened as the guard halted in front of a cell. Beyond the bars, he saw the weaver. He took a few steps to the front and saw how it was being kept. Both of its limbs were restrained and there was a circular metallic chain that was attached to its neck. The Mana weaver was asleep by the looks of it. Let me inside, open this, Kai said commandingly. The guard frowned. His eyes were looking at him as if questioning if he was crazy. Are you certain about that- Do it, Kai cut him off. The guard immediately walked forward to open the cell, but as soon as it was done, he backed off from the door. Kai walked inside. Seeing him walk in, the guard followed. Though, he noticed the hesitation in his steps. Making sure that the weaver was really asleep, Kai rugged on the chains, but nothing happened. To be safe, he formed a Sleep spell structure on his hands and casted it. If there was any doubt, it ceased from his heart and he relaxed. Kai leaned forward and looked at how the corruption was spreading in the weaver''s body. The corruption in its body had increased from before, and if Kai looked closer, he could see black lines on its neck and arms. Its face had also mutated more, looking more hideous than before almost like an undead. Luckily, it wasn''t at a level where Kai couldn''t do anything. The man still held a semblance of humanity and a lot of its flesh was human. It might take a while, but he would be able to heal it free from the corruption. He touched its hand and casted a Purification spell. The area where he was holding it shone as his mana entered the weaver''s body. Soon, Kai could see the lines in its neck decreasing slowly. Though, it wasn''t without resistance. The corruption inside the body of the man tried to fight against him as he used his spell. It didn''t allow the pure mana to eat it away, but Kai pushed more, using every bit of his mana before he managed to destroy a good amount of it. Taking puffs of breath, Kai sighed. It was a slow process and he would have to purify it for over an hour daily for the corruption to end completely. W-what is happening?! The guards squeaky voice came rather loud, breaking Kais focus. He looked back to see the guards widened eyes and opened mouth. Kai even saw how the spear was almost out of his hand as the guard gaped at the light coming from the weaver''s hand. Im casting a spell on It, Kai responded quickly. Does that mean youre a Mage, Lord Arzan? the guard questioned back. Kai simply replied, Yes, I am. Patreon Announcement!!! [Copied from RR] Hello, Everyone, I have a few things to tell you all my dear readers. Starting off, I would have given you all a kiss for getting us to 1000 followers today and we are just going stronger. I''m having dreams of 3000-4000 followers by the end of the RS run which are the best dreams for an author on royal road. Sarch* The N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Now, I wanted to put out this announcement a few days earlier, but I seriously botched up the launch of the novel. I wasn''t able to work on it for a week before launch due to real life problems, delaying the patreon by a lot. But now, I am announcing it!! Currently, there''s 5 chaps you can read up ahead on patreon for 3 dollars a month! The Patreon is on a subscription model which means you will be charged the day you buy and in the next month, you will be charged the same day. Right now, you would get the first tier which will till chap 17. Bonus chapters will then start rolling out on the weekends as my co author TC is free from college. Anyway, thank you all for supporting me! If you have any questions, please ask! 8. Syphon Kai ignored the guard and focused on purging the corruption from within the mana weaver. He sent waves of mana into the weaver''s body. Parts of the man''s body had fallen to the corruption and it had taken hold, so it resisted Kai''s mana viscously, not letting him destroy it and even fought against it. Still, it wasn''t strong enough to stop his mana. After coming to his era, Kai''s mana had only gotten more pure because of the quality of the mana in the air here. Beads of sweat gathered on his forehead as he focused. To the guard, it might have looked like nothing, but Kai felt like he was in the middle of a battlefield, fighting the corruption with his mana. The mana weaver shook a few times during the purification, but it mostly stayed put, his Sleep spell doing its work. If it had woken up, it would have surely attacked him. The whole thing went smoothly as Kai took deep breaths, consolidated his breathing and kept on working. After an hour of it, Kai saw the black lines on his neck thinning. A few of them disappeared and even a few of his fingers returned to their normal state. The black lines on his arms completely went away. It was a gradual process, but it was a positive response to his purification. The skin colour of the weaver had gone completely pale and it almost resembled a blood drinker. If Kai was right, it would take a week for the colour to return to normal. The eyes had turned red alongside the face morphing into rotten flesh. Those would take extra care from him and he didn''t have enough mana for it at the moment. He touched the weaver''s neck and sent a last rush of mana inside its veins before sighing. Taking a last look at it, he stood up and dusted his hands off. Kai looked at the guard who still looked a bit shocked at what he had seen. I will come here regularly every day to heal it. For now, just keep it fed and dont do anything. I might just be able to save it, Kai said and paused, taking a moment to think for himself. He took a glimpse at the mana weaver and looked back at the guard. I would prefer it if you don''t go around using your mouth about me being a Mage. Kai looked at him in the eyes, giving a did you understand what I meant look. The guard nodded immediately. For him, it didn''t matter if people knew if he was a Mage or not, but there would be questions once it got revealed. He preferred to reveal it himself to others rather than them finding out about it from rumours. Also, he was a bit wary of Actra. Kai hadn''t seen him yet, but knowing that he might be connected to the ritual and Arzan''s death, he couldn''t help but be cautious of him. Moreover, being a Mage might just help him get support from Killian and Francis. Both of them had considerable authority around here, but Kai doubted they trusted him. It was more like they endured him and didn''t dare to speak against him due to his family. If he wanted to rule here, he needed retainers and being a Mage would certainly help with that. Lord Arzan, you said that you would come here to heal the mana weaver. Does that mean it could be saved? The guards voice brought him back to the present and he looked at him. Yes, I would be able to save it. The corruption hadn''t spread so much that we would have to kill it. Saying so, Kai turned around to leave, but as he was doing so, his eyes noticed something sitting in front of the walls. A unique-looking stone. Is that a Syphon stone? Kai questioned as he fixed his gaze on it. He briefly recalled Killian mentioning it before. The Syphon stone was a green, crystallised stone with the ability to draw mana from the surroundings. Kai had seen their fair share of them before. It was kept far away from the mana weaver and he assumed it was to absorb the mana from the air, so the Weaver couldn''t gather his energy back. It was a great tool for someone to be kept exhausted. Yes, it is, My Lord. We are using it to absorb as much mana as possible from the weaver. We haven''t expected such a situation, or we would have already constructed cuffs made from Syphon stone, he said while glancing between the stone and Kai. Kai kept looking at the stone before slowly walking towards it. Picking it in his hand, the Syphon stone tried to absorb his mana, but it wasn''t able to. Kai''s control on its mana was strong enough unlike the weaver who had transformed recently. As he kept looking at the crystallised stone, Kai''s mind started to spin. Almost as if leaves caught on fire, an idea ignited in his mind. Kai thought in his mind and weighed the pros and cons before deciding on running a few tests. Looking back at the guard, he asked, What is your name? It''s Feroy, my Lord. Feroy, get a few of these Syphon stones in my room as soon as possible. *** Inside his room, Kai looked down at the Syphon stones that were glistening in front of him. He smiled at them as they could be the answer to his first and most important problem right now. As they were common and were easily found in the mountains, Kai was easily able to get a few of them to begin his experiments. From what he knew, the stones were useless other than their ability to absorb mana. It was also the reason common people didn''t like them. There were a few tales of travellers touching them in the mountains and feeling powerless after the stones suck all their mana. Unlike him, commoners hardly have any ability to resist the pull of the stones. From what he recalled, they were mostly used in prisons, especially against Mages as normal cuffs won''t work against them. There were quite a few people he had read about who had experimented on the stones, trying to power them up or use them for other reasons. Though, no one had tried to make them a Heat stone. He had only heard of them being used as Mana batteries before. It was because they tended to blast if someone tried to use external mana to change their properties. Enchanting them was also not easy due to that. Only the best Mages would be able to do that. Kai had a few reservations because of that, but he had no other plan. That''s why, he picked up one stone and slowly started enchanting it, keeping in mind to be delicate or else he might end up getting killed just a week after regressing. First of all, to limit the mana that the stones would absorb, Kai thought of a specific enchantment. He didnt want the energy to be drained from everyone surrounding the stone. The Heat stone was supposed to provide heat, not suck all the energy. Slowly, he inscribed the seal on top of the stone, making sure that he wasn''t putting too much pressure on it. It shook in his hand, but the mana stored in it didn''t act strange. Slowly, Kai traced the seal on top of the stone and once it was done, it took a sigh of relief. Next, he decided to use the Ignition seal on the other side of the stone. That would make sure that the stone would turn all the mana inside of it to warm itself up and then the air around it. An Ignition seal was harder to do, so Kai took more time in it. The patterns were complex and despite being a basic version of the real seal he knew of, it would do the work. After each line, Kai kept a note on how it was behaving and continued. The stone absorbed his magic, almost like sponges soaking up water. It suddenly flickered a little and Kai immediately put it down and walked a few steps away from it, preparing to cast a defensive spell. The next second, a noise came out. Kai looked on as the stone cracked and frowned. It hadn''t exploded, but his efforts were ruined. He had to start from scratch again. For the rest of the day, Kai kept working on the stones, even eating his dinner in his room as he worked to enchant the stones. After going through a few of them, he realised that the stones were cracking because of the pressure from the inscriptions he was doing. He also made other mistakes, both big and small. Once, the stone even exploded because he messed up the Ignition seal. He survived as he jumped out of the range of it, but he did attract the attention of Claire and one guard who was close by. In his defence, it was only because he tried to limit the level of warmth that the stones would give out. He didn''t want them to burn someone''s hands. It had to be at a specific temperature for them to be a hit among the common public. Like that, he kept working on the stone. Every try was him getting close to success and slowly, he mastered the Ignition seal and how to inscribe it perfectly. He took breaks to recover his mana and went back to it again. sea??h th N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His whole night was spent like that, but Kai didn''t regret any part of it as the morning arrived. *** Killian looked down at his plate. He cut the bread into pieces. With his fork, he grabbed the meat and put it on top. It was breakfast and he regarded it as the most important meal of the day. Today was the same and the food made by the cook was the same as every day, just how he liked it. Still, he sensed a gaze on him and as he raised his head, he matched Francis''s eyes on him. Do you have something to say, Francis? Killian asked, looking at him. His brows furrowed in curiosity. "Have you noticed Lord Arzan acting unusual lately? I mean- Killian nodded, chewing thoughtfully. "Yeah, something''s off. I heard he''s been hoarding those Syphon stones, doing god knows what in his room for the last three days. He only goes out to meet Mana weaver. We''re neck-deep in debt, and he''s tinkering with a bunch of stones. He shook his head in disappointment. Francis put the bread he was eating down, a puzzled expression etched on his face. I thought he was going to do something about the debt. Maybe send a letter to the Duke''s household for them to help us, but he''s just wasting time with stones." His voice was thickly laced with disappointment. Killian sighed and took a bite of the bread. "I don''t get it. Maybe he''s onto something, but we''re in no position for experiments-" He stopped talking as soon as he heard footsteps. Both of them turned their faces around to see someone familiar. Arzan walked in with a smile on his face. He looked between the two. Good morning, Lord Arzan! Both of them said at the same time. Killian glanced at Francis and decided to ask about the Syphon stones. Lord Arzan, we heard you were- I have something to show to you both. Before he could continue further, Arzan replied. His eyes glistened with accomplishment, and his upward smile showed that he was proud of what he had done. From the cloak he was wearing, he pulled out a stone and placed it on the table in front of them. It was glistening with a green shimmer, and they could see energy shifting inside. There were also strange patterns engraved onto them on all sides. What are those patterns on the Syphon stone? Francis asked, looking up at Arzan. Why are you showing us a Syphon stone, Lord Arzan? Killian also asked, his face scrunching up in confusion. Place your hands on it, Arzan looked at the duo and said. His attention immediately shifted to Killian, urging him to touch the stone. Killian frowned but didn''t dare to object. He slowly placed his hands on top of the stone. The cold surface of the stone made him wince as he felt it drawing his mana. Slowly, the shimmer in the stone increased as Killian tried to resist. He flinched as the energy continued to drain from his body. Why are you trying to drain me early in the morning? Killian asked and withdrew his hands immediately. Arzan shook his head. Place them back. And tell me what you feel. Killian already knew what he would feel if he placed them back. Lord Arzan, I still have the rest of the day left Just do so, Arzan insisted. Killian and Francis locked eyes and both wondered at the same time. He hadn''t seen the Lord being so forceful before. Mostly, he would just order and act aloof. Well- Killian obliged. This time, when he kept his hands above the stones, he could feel a strange warmth emitting from the stone. The cold surface completely changed and it felt good. What is that? And how Killian questioned and looked up at Arzan who smiled. This is a Heat stone. And this is how we will be paying back our debt. We are going to sell these. 9. Laws and conversations Heat stones? This feels so warm. I never heard of something like that before. Francis asked, his eyes filled with curiosity as his gaze alternated between the stone and Kai. His hands were on top of the Heat stone and he continued to feel the increment of temperature. It feels good, right, Kai said, smiling. It had taken a while, but he had finally managed to develop the Heat stone. It wasn''t to the level of a high-quality one he remembered, but it was still good enough for daily use. Just by the expression on Francis''s face, he could tell that the Heat stones had worked as expected. Its as if the sun is in my hand in this weather, Lord Arzan! This stone Where did you find it? Did you make it? Francis asked, looking at the stone closely and holding it like it was some treasure. Killian also closely inspected the glinting stone. Withdrawing his eyes from it, he turned to look at Kai. Is this what you were doing with the Syphon stones, Lord Arzan? He asked, looking at Kai with a strange expression. Yes, I have been working on them for the past few days, he said, wondering how to explain it. Well, what I basically did was take the Syphon stone, and then design its insides so that it would emit heat. It initially does what Syphon stones are supposed to do, and then, the mana it absorbs will be converted to heat, releasing it to the outside. He finished the explanation and took the stone in his hand. He hid the parts about him enchanting the stone as it would start another conversation he didn''t want to have with the servants around. Fortunately, it looked like both Killian and Francis were impressed by the Heat stone and the warmth coming from it. The latter looked to be contemplating something. His hand was on his chin as he stared at the Heat stone. After a few seconds, he raised his head to look at Kai. How many of these will Your Lordship be able to create within a day? Francis asked and Kai immediately replied. Five a day. It took me some time to figure out the particulars. But I believe, in no time I will be able to create twice that within a day, Kai said, as he thought about how long things would take and calculated the amount of mana he had to put in. Since he had gotten the right seals to enchant the stones, he would be able to avoid any mishaps. With the heavy winter this year, we can sell these for quite a good amount and with that, we can pay back the debt. Sar?h the n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Francis and Killian both nodded at his words. Both their faces were filled with questions, but they seemed to agree with Kai''s assessment of the Heat stone. How long do these last? Killian inquired as he took the stone to his hand. Theyd last at least a year. Maybe a few weeks past that, but not more than that. So, we can keep the production going and sell them every year. Francis nodded. I have a certain amount of price for this, and if this works out, the debt will be gone in no time. In places like Kalaria City and the capital, these would go at record prices. We could even auction them off. I''m pretty sure nobles would pay a good sum to alleviate the cold. They would, Kai said. Syphon stones aren''t hard to get, so we would be able to make a decent profit off them. Yes, we sure will. Francis said with a satisfied look on his face. Lord Arzan, how did you even manage to develop something like this? Killians voice came out doubtfully. His stare at Kai was deep and stern. Or maybe it was how he usually looked at people. The designs on this They looked like they were seals. I saw an enchanted sword once and they have similar-looking symbols on it. Francis immediately took note of the seals on the Heat stone as he narrowed his eyes. Seals? Do you mean the language of- Francis started to speak, but stopped as he saw a guard walking towards them. Pardon me, Lord Arzan, Knight Killian, and administrator Francis But theres an immediate situation that needs your attention, the guard said, bowing to Kai before looking straight at them. What is it? Kai asked immediately. A merchant from the Tradeheart merchant company was creating a ruckus wanting to meet you. He was planning to walk to the diner himself, but we kept him in the room on the first floor. He''s waiting for you there. Both Killian and Francis exchanged looks at each other and stood up. Neither of them was done with their breakfasts, but there were important matters to deal with. It hadn''t been a week, but it seemed like the merchant had decided to give an early visit. Lets go there, immediately, Killian said and walked out of the hall. Kai and Francis, both followed him without another word. I was wondering when they would show up. Kai sighed as he followed. Francis had gone pale beside him and even Killian didn''t seem like his usual self. If he hadn''t developed the Heat stone, Kai might have been worried too, but with it in his hands, there was no reason to worry. They took the stairs to the first floor and the guard showed them the room the merchant was sitting in. As soon as Kai entered the room, he was met with a bald man with average-looking features who gave him a half-hearted bow. He wore a red cloak to protect him from the wind and below it, Kai could see a velvet tunic. All of his clothes looked to be made of fine material and intricate patterns. Either the man was one of the executives in the merchant company or the company was just wealthy enough for even common merchants to be well off. Besides him, two men in leather armour stood, looking like hired warriors. Both of them had swords sheathed in their hilts and were as tall as Killian. Kai gestured to the merchant to take a seat on the sofa. The two bodyguards stood on each side of them and both of his retainers did the same. Lord Arzan, it''s so good to see you after so long. How long has it been? Six months? The merchant asked and Kai simply nodded, not wanting to get into past matters since he had no memory of it. Why don''t we start with the reason you are here? He asked and the merchant''s expression strained. He soon smiled and began talking. I''m pretty sure you know my reason for visiting. It''s to take the debt back," he said, giving a smile that reminded Kai of swindlers. "We''ve been patient, but the due date is long gone. You see, the Tradeheart merchant company values honesty and punctuality." I tried to discuss this with you before Galvan, but we are in no position to pay that amount of money, and you said you would give us a week, Francis said, frowning. The merchant shook his head. I am here early because of a reason and does it even matter? The condition of the city isn''t hidden from anyone and a few days here and there wouldn''t change that. Kai stood silent, listening intently. Killian simply glared at the man and Francis looked to be lost for words. The bald man, Galvan swept his gaze across them and took it as a consensus to keep going. He continued, Since you have been asking for more time, I have an alternative way for you to pay rather than in coins. We have prepared an agreement for you to hand over a part of the farmlands and one of the mines to us. I know that there are pesky bandits around, but the Tradeheart merchant company could handle them. It would also bring more security to your land. If you will, I will show the agreement to you. As the words left his mouth, Kai wondered for a second how Arzan would have reacted to it. Maybe he would be angry and lash out? It was hard to say. Galvan kept his smiling moniker, but the words he spewed were enough to be considered more than rude. Go on, Kai said, letting him continue. He noticed how visibly uncomfortable Francis seemed to be next to him. He was shifting from one leg to another, and tapping on his elbow constantly. Now hold on. You cant just ask for something like Kai lifted a hand, interrupting his train of words. Let him finish. Galvan nodded to him and quickly took out a set of documents from under a bag. He passed it on to Kai. Weve ensured its all perfectly legal and per the agreement. This isnt fair! Weve been giving interest. You need to give us more time! Francis shouted out, glaring towards Galvan. It''s not about that, Francis. An agreement is an agreement and the one Lord Arzan signed, clearly states that he needs to pay the whole debt in six months. He failed to do so, so it''s within our right and the law of the land. As Galvan continued talking, Kai calmly picked up the agreement and went through it. It wasn''t big and it seemed simple enough with all the right clauses. Tradeheart merchant company would get the right to the mine for ten years and the farmlands indefinitely and in return, the debt would be over. He was sure that they were planning to run the mine dry so that after ten years, there would be nothing left. Lord Arzan, you can take your time with it and sign it at your No, I don''t think I will, he said, interrupting Galvan. I don''t think you realise it, but your company is violating the Lancephil law. He finished his sentence calmly and looked at Galvan who looked baffled. His words seemed to be stuck in his throat for a second. What? He asked. Lord Arzan, this isn''t the time for these sorts of things. I know you are playful, but this is a serious matter. Im serious, Galvan, Kai said. I''m pretty sure a merchant such as you would be well-versed in the kingdom''s laws. I''m, but I don''t see how we are violating it here. The agreement was by it. The confusion on his face was a sight to see. Even Killian and Francis looked the same, but they tried their best to keep their faces neutral. Kai put the agreement back on the table and smiled. The agreement is under the laws. I agree with that. Then? Theres just one thing you haven''t given heed to or you won''t be here today. What? Silence filled the room for a few seconds as Kai thought back to the exact words he had read back in the library. Fortunately, among the history and geographical books, there was a book with the kingdom''s laws written on it. According to the kingdoms law, nobles like me have a provision. We can ask for an additional six months without any interest to pay back any loan we take. You can read section B, clause A in the 848th Lancephil Law that was first used in Year 790, and it is still in practice. The confidence in Kai''s voice was clear and loud as he spoke. Galvan''s smile faded away and he looked to be wondering if Kai had been lying or not. Are you sure of it, Lord Arzan? He asked, his voice breaking. Yes, I read it. You can check it. I won''t lie to you. He gave a similar smile to Galvan that he had plastered on his face before. Kai had looked for a law book after knowing about the debt since nobles would often fall into the traps of merchants and even other nobles. So, most of the time, kingdoms would have separate laws to give them one last chance. In Lancephil Kingdom, it had come into practice almost a hundred years back when a Count had almost lost everything to a merchant and then, the king of those times had helped him out by giving him additional time. Now, it has saved Kai. Galvans face changed and he barely kept his smile. This goes against what we agreed upon, Lord Arzan! You can''t just do that he said and gritted his teeth. Im just staying within my legal rights. I''m pretty sure you and Tradeheart merchant company take laws very seriously. Galvan didn''t speak and just nodded. Kai could see his clenched hands beyond his cloak. The man always knew how to put a smile on his face, but was bad at hiding his anger. After six months, I would be happy to sign that agreement, he said. If it comes to that. Kai stood up, hoping to end the meeting. It was then that one of the towering bodyguards stepped forward. His face was scrunched up in frustration and anger. You can''t back out now! Sign the agreement! Without even thinking further, the bodyguard started making his way towards Kai. He walked around the round tablebut before he could do anything, Killian walked to the front of Kai. Kais vision was blocked by Killians large body. If you dont sign this the bodyguard''s loud voice filled the air as he started lunging himself forward. Kai swiftly cast a spell to make the ground slippery beneath the bodyguard, which caused him to lose his footing and stumble. It wasn''t a flashy spell, so he doubted anyone saw it. What the? The bodyguards confused voice came from the floor as he slipped. His huge body lost its balance and he fell with a thud, looking embarrassed. Killian glared at Galvan, then the bodyguard. If you want to conduct yourself as thugs, the Tradeheart merchant company would be thrown out of the territory and I would personally kill you for attacking Lord Arzan, he said, holding a sword towards him. I apologise, Lord Arzan, Galvan quickly said. He has got quite the temper. This bastard doesn''t know how to behave. With a frown, he looked at the bodyguard who lifted himself. I will excuse myself, for now, the kingdoms laws are something me and Tradeheart merchant company respect and do not plan to cross. I hope to see you again, Lord Arzan. His frown deepened, but he didn''t dare stay any longer. Giving a death glare to his bodyguard, he left the room. The towering bodyguards followed the merchant outside. Once they were gone, Kai took a sigh of relief. Killian and Francis both took steps forward to walk closer to Kai. The latters face was filled with a big question. How did Your Lordship know about that? Kai looked at Francis and responded, I found a book on the laws and went through it. I just wanted to find something thatd leverage us. I know the basic laws, but something like this was never taught to me, Francis muttered, looking ashamed of himself. You should take a look at a few books in the library. You might learn new things. Kai said and stretched his hands. I will, Lord Arzan. With this, we have six months to pay off the debt. I think we would be able to with the Heat stones, he said with a big smile on his face. On the other hand, Killian seemed to be contemplating something. Looking at Kai, he hesitated before speaking again. Lord Arzan, I don''t know if I saw it right, but did you cast a spell there? What? Francis stared at him. I felt a rush of mana behind me, he explained, looking at Kai who hadn''t expected that. It seems like he can sense mana. Deciding to ask more questions about it later, Kai put his palm head and conjured up a small flame on top of it. There was no better moment to reveal it. Smiling, he glanced at the shocked gazes of both of them, Yes, I''m a Mage. *** Galvan stormed out of the estate. His expression was a mix of frustration and resentment as he gritted his teeth. His footsteps echoed through the courtyard as he briskly walked away, leaving the estate behind. Once at a sufficient distance from the estate, the merchant turned to his imposing bodyguard, a bitter scowl etched across his face. This is just infuriating I cant believe we had to leave that place without a signed agreement. Those nobles think they can just use their laws to bend everything in their favour, he said, shaking his head. And you, we aren''t dealing with a normal noble. It''s a Duke''s son here. No matter what, his one drop of blood is still more valuable than your head. From next time, if you do something like that, I will make sure you suffer for it. The bitterness was layered on every word he said. The bodyguard nodded, keeping his head low. He had just made a fool of himself and knew better than to talk back. Finally, Galvan dismissively waved his hand. Frowning, he gave one last look at the estate, "Forget this. We''ll play along for now, but after six months, when the extension is over, we''ll get everything as initially planned. Just make sure you keep a close eye on the estate. Those fools won''t know what hit them. Especially that useless Arzan. He said while getting on his carriage. The bodyguards simply nodded as they followed behind. 10. A miner’s POV The snow was pouring heavily outside the window as a man stared at it. His gaunt eyes were filled with helplessness. He grabbed the hem of his tattered robe and tightened it around himself, trying to breathe even though his entire body was shivering. He tried to rub his ear lobes, to create fiction and warm them up, but his numb fingers gave up. As he breathed deeply, steam came out in the cold air. His jaws started clicking the teeth together involuntarily. I should have built a hearth last winter when I had the coin, he said, feeling like he would die from the cold. It hadn''t been this harsh from the start. The months of Frosania were always jarring, but he had gotten used to it. This year, it had just broken all limits. He hadn''t seen such a cold in the entirety of his life and a few people in the street had already succumbed to it. Even children. Unlike nobles and the wealthy, he didn''t have the necessary means to survive the wrath of Frosania. If only I had my job, I would have been able to buy black wolf fur. That would have provided some relief. He frowned, thinking about it. He used to be a miner in one of the mines located outside the city. But after the mines ran dry and another one was captured by bandits, men like him were left unemployed. And most of them were barely going through winter. The smart ones had already left for other places. The only reason he stayed behind was because a new lord had come to the city six months back. Unfortunately, he had done nothing for them. Cecilia, warm me some soup. The cold is worse today I feel like a corpse already, he yelled towards the kitchen. Footsteps sounded out and soon, Cecelia walked towards with moist eyes. Her brown hair was in a bun and she was wrapped up in three tattered garments, but she still seemed to be shivering. Her hands were just skin and bones and in the last few months, she had lost the shine in her eyes. Theres no soup left Gareth, she said, looking down at him. What? Didn''t I get some vegetables last week? Yes, they all ended. We have been saving them and eating only once a day, but they are still not enough. We barely have food left. In this cold, I don''t know how we will survive. I will try to borrow some money, he said, sighing. For how long are we going to borrow money? It will run out sooner or later. A tear threatened to roll down her cheeks as she looked at him. Gareth wanted to say something. He knew he needed to say something, give her hope, but he didn''t know any way to tackle the cold or get money. Like this, they were going A knock on the door took his attention away. Cecelia blinked at the door, Who could be at this hour? Let me check. He stood up, walking up to the door, hoping it was not some beggar again, wanting some food and shelter. He didn''t hate them, but they weren''t in a position to live well. Who is it?! Gareth opened the door and saw their neighbour standing with his arms wrapped around him. Tomas, what happened? Gareth, Lord! Lord Arzan is out in the street! The shivery voice squeaked with happiness. Like him, he was a miner who had lost his job. In the past few months, both of them had crossed paths many times, but he had always seen the man with slumped shoulders and hopelessness in his eyes which was a stark contrast to his current demeanour. Gareth frowned and asked, Lord Arzan, what is he doing here? He hadn''t shown his face since he walked into the city. He is passing a few things in the neighbourhood. People are saying that it will help us with the cold. Everyone is going there to get their hands on it before he leaves. What? Tomas, I don''t have time for lies. Gareths disbelief-filled voice came out as he looked at his neighbour with accusing eyes. Come and see for yourself! Be quick! Hopefully, the stuff wont end soon, Tomas said and turned around, taking long strides towards the public square. He shook his head and then turned around to look at his wife. I''m going out for a while. Is there any problem? She asked, looking concerned. No, the lord is apparently out in the street. I''m going to see what''s going on, he said. Don''t open the door until I come back. Gareth grabbed the ragged coat that was hung beside the door and walked outside. A cold wind hit him in the back, his clothes not enough to protect him from the snow and wind. He slowly made his way through the snow-laden streets. Normally, people would stay inside their houses, warming up to survive through the day. But as he stepped outside, he saw more than half of the neighbourhood scattered across the area. Most of them were whispering to each other. He perked up his ears to hear the conversation and noticed that all of them seemed to be moving towards the square. Gareth walked past a few people and reached to the front. After walking for a while, he saw a crowd gathered around a man. He had black hair and wore a robe that hid all his body. By the intricate patterns on the robe, Gareth could already tell who he was. Next to him, a woman stood looking like a maid and a few guards. A carriage was standing on the left and a few people stared at it. Gareth had never seen Lord Arzan before since the man had been a recluse, but he seemed like a typical noble. He also noticed something else. Stones were kept on top of a table. They were green crystals with symbols all around them. They shone under the snow and everyone kept looking at them. He slowly walked up to the back of the crowd, listening to whatever the noble was going to say. He also saw Tomas standing just right next to him. When the man saw him, he flashed him a smile. Gareth ignored him and focused on Lord Arzan. Hello everyone, thank you for gathering here. I would like to show you a Heat stone. Lord Arzan voiced out as he held the Heat stone in his hand, showing it to the people who surrounded him. This stone can keep you warm during the winter and you can escape the wrath of Frosania. At his words, a commotion went through the crowd as questions and murmurs erupted. What? How much are those, Lord Arzan? They look expensive. They are shining. How can they do that? Are they magical objects? Gareth frowned as he stared at the Heat stones. He had never heard of such stones before. Even the merchants whom he had talked to had never mentioned it. If such a thing existed, then why were they still suffering from the cold? He simply refused to believe the words of a noble. Lord Arzan stayed silent until the barrage of questions died down. These stones are expensive, but they are free for you all, he said as more than a few people gasped in the crowd. Yes, they are magical, but you don''t have to worry about it. Simply form a line and grab them. Please only take one for each family. Lord Arzan motioned to his right, where people immediately queued. The guards made sure that no one behaved out of line. Gareth also stood at the back of it, looking at the line moving with suspicions. He wondered why they were distributed for free. The last time he had gotten free things was when the previous lord''s son was born. He had only been a kid back then and since then, the state of the city had just gotten worse and worse. Still, if there was some hope to escape the cold, he would take it. He already didn''t have money for food and if the weather didn''t warm up, both he and his wife would be in their grave. He shuddered as the line moved. Please, tell me how this would work? One man asked as he reached the top of the line. Now that Gareth was close to him, he could see that the man almost looked unblemished and well unlike any of them. Lord Arzan handed the man the stone and smiled. This stone absorbs the mana from the surroundings and it converts it to heat, he said. You simply have to place it in a room and then, it will warm up the place. If you want to hasten the process, simply put your hand on top of it. Make sure to not touch it for more than a minute or you might feel a loss of energy. Thank you, Lord Arzan. The man said and left, heading towards his home with the stone. The line moved again and Gareth kept his eyes on the heat stones. Minutes passed by like that and he saw the stones becoming less and less. Finally, when only three of them were left, he found himself on top of the line. I hope they help you out with the wrath of Frosania. Lord Arzan said, handing the stone to him. Gareth kept staring at him, again wondering if it was all a hoax. A few words in his throat bubbled up and he wanted to ask him about the situation with the mines. Even before, a lot of miners had gone to the estate to talk to him, but he hadn''t given them any time. Now, he was in front, but his words never left his throat. Wrapping his hand around the stone, he said, Thank you, my lord. He turned back, briefly noticing Tomas who had also gotten a stone and seemed to be talking with a few other people. Gareth ignored him and made his way towards his house, keeping the stone in one of his pockets. With every step closer to his house, he felt it couldn''t be true, but a part of him hoped it was. He didn''t want to die in this cold nor did he want to lose his wife. It was strange, but he felt warmth coming from the stone as he ran. He slowly got closer to his house and taking a breath, he knocked on the door. Cecilia, open up! His wife opened up the door, the gust of wind making her shiver. He walked inside and sat down before taking out the Heat stone from his pocket. What is that? she questioned curiously. Time to find out, Gareth said swiftly and kept it in the corner of the room, on the small wooden desk. He placed his hand on top of the stone and waited. Within a few seconds, he felt a slight pull of energy draining him, but soon, his hands felt warmer and warmer. His eyes widened, and his mouth gaped. His hands started to shake. Just to make sure, he placed his other hand on the stone and it was still warm. He snapped his head towards his wife. She immediately walked up to him, wondering what was going on. Come! Its warm! This is working! What a surprise! Ahahah! Gareth yelled in happiness and hugged his wife. We are going to survive this winter! *** Kai looked at the people who were still around the public square. The Heat stones had run out and they all looked disappointed with missing out on one. He didn''t have a choice since he was only able to make dozens of them. Even if Syphon stones were easily available, there were limits to his mana. Sitting in his carriage, he turned his head away from people and sighed. Your Lordship, why are you distributing these to the common people? Claire asked, her brows furrowed. She was sitting in front of him and had been helping him distribute the stones. He had earlier shown how the Heat stone worked to Claire, and she understood their value in this cold. One reason is to help these people out. I heard how they are living from Francis, he said and paused before continuing, Also, I dont have a reputation among the people. People have heard about me, but they never saw me. I''m known as a recluse and that''s not a good thing. Why? she asked. Ignorance towards a lord is as good as the lord not existing for the people, he said. So, Im trying to build my reputation among the commoners first. Apart from those two reasons, I wanted to hear how they liked it. Or if there were any immediate effects that I should know about. I would be sending guards to enquire if the stones are working well later on. Claire nodded her head. He didn''t know if she got what he was trying to do, but she seemed smart enough. Kai withdrew his gaze from her and turned to look outside. Soon, the carriage started to move from its halt. He took a moment to process the surroundings outside the city which was simply filled with a blanket of snow. The roofs of the houses, their roads, and even farmlands were filled with it. One thing he noticed was that a lot of garbage was just thrown around without any supervision. Hardly, a few people were on the streets in the morning and it felt more like a ghost city to him. With turns on the carriage, he saw how some people were using different equipment to clear out the snow in front of their houses. A few others were trying to use hay to cover large holes in their roofs. He also saw a few children out in the snow, clothes barely covering them. A stream separated the town into two parts and the carriage took the bridge to reach the estate. The river was frozen due to the cold and he doubted the ice would melt anytime. Kai stared at it until it passed from his sight. Are you going to distribute the stones again, Lord Arzan? Claire broke the silence, looking curiously at him. I believe the staff at the estate would be greatly alleviated from the cold by them. Understanding what she was implying, he smiled, I will make a batch for them. Right now, I''m going to prepare enough to sell. If we delay it any further, the season might just pass. He had already talked in detail with Francis about it and if things went as planned, they would be able to start the production of it soon. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The estate got closer as they talked. He could see the gates from a distance. The road ahead was much clearer. The snow was cleared, and even the houses that were around seemed to be in a better state. Those were the guards'' quarters. Since the training for the guards started early, most of them stayed on the grounds. Soon, they passed the gates and a few guards opened up the door to the carriage. He got out of the carriage and immediately decided to go to his room. As he walked, he could feel the exhaustion catching up to him. He had thought about it before, but this body was really not used to moving around much. He had simply gone to the streets to distribute Heat stones, but just standing around for over an hour had him exhausted. He opened his room''s door and sprawled on the bed. He cast a Heal spell on himself and felt much better. Although the spell was for injuries, it would still help him recover his strength. Kai thought back to his previous body. He had been quite athletic from the start, having lived on streets for most of his childhood, but once he had become a Mage, he had relied more on spells to power himself up rather than focusing on working out. This time, he wanted to change that. Maybe, he could even learn a weapon. Every skill was worth it since he never knew what type of danger he might be in. Kai lay and stared at the ceiling. Deciding to focus on getting to the 2nd circle, he raised himself and sat in a lotus position. He inhaled deeply and let the mana flow inside his lungs. The intentional mana intake soothed his nerves immediately. He exhaled and let out all the air. He inhaled once again, this time bringing in mana deeper enough to sour it through, and towards the heart. He let the mana outside of him once again. His focus became stronger as he pulled mana back insidethis time, circling his Mana heart. His mind zeroed in more intensely. The mana flowed in circles around his heart. He had only recently gotten to the 1st circle, so it would take time for him to advance. Kai also didn''t want to mess up his basics by advancing too fast. There were also things like starting his training and finding his elem- A knock on the door interrupted him and he opened his eyes. Come in! Kai yelled and stood up. He thought of opening the door, but before he could, the door opened and Francis walked in. Lord Arzan, I have gotten men to collect all the Syphon stones from the market. Theyre cheap and not in demand, so it wont take much time to get them all. I have created a workshop that you can use to enchant them, Francis said as if he practised it all before. He certainly looked the type of person to do so. If you need anything else, please call me. I will make sure to get it to you as soon as possible. Kai noticed something immediately. Franciss hands were clenched to a ball in front of him, and even the way he talked had a big difference from before. He stood much straighter than before. Before, he used to treat him with respect, but now, it almost seemed much more. That is all well, but is everything okay with you? Kai asked as he looked into Franciss eyes. The latter barely looked Kai in the eyes throughout the time he spoke. Francis blinked his eyes in confusion. Yes, everything is fine. Then, why are you standing like that? Your Lordship, youre a Mage. Im just trying to follow proper conduct. Thats all, Francis said and shrugged it off. He didn''t seem to mind it, but Kai felt uncomfortable with such conduct. It seemed like it was the norm to treat Mages equally as nobles. Someone like Kai who was both a noble and a Mage seemed to have a higher standing. Come to think of it, Mages around this time were like a rare horse breed simply because common people were hardly allowed to be one. Most of the Mages were from noble families or knight lineage. Aside from that, few of the commoners would luck out if they came across a Mage that would take them as an apprentice. This had only changed in the Golden era of magic. There is no need for anything of sorts, Francis. I would prefer it if you talked like before, he said, sighing. Did you manage to look for someone to handle the distributions? The time is thin in our hands. Kai quickly changed the subject. The city was still not economically well and even though, he could sell a good amount of Heat stones here, it still wouldn''t be enough. Therefore, they needed to look elsewhere so that they could sell all the Heat stones for a hefty price. The more they sold, the quicker they could get over the debt that loomed over their heads. Francis nodded, his shoulders relaxing a bit. I looked for a few merchants. They were all good at what they did. Some are better than others. And, I found one that is exactly like the one you wanted. 11. Merchant of spice Malden, a spice merchant, walked through a long corridor dimly lit by torches while his eyes looked around. It was his first time here in the estate of Lord Arzan and he couldn''t help, but feel uneasy. An imposing guard walked alongside him. He had introduced himself as Feroy. Maldens sharp, beady eyes glanced at him from time to time. He thought to himself as his eyes darted nervously. From the light that came from the torches, he could see his shadow in front of him. His wiry hair kept waving left and right as he continued to take steps ahead, and his fingers were quick to try and comb them neatly. He parted them to his sides from the middle and realised that it was the most tidy that his hair could get. Soon, his mind started spiralling with questions again. He remembered what he had heard of Arzan. A lord with a questionable reputation who hardly showed his face in public and seemed to spend time in his room. Only recently he had heard rumours of him stepping out of the estate. Other than that, there were only a few things. In the first place, a Duke''s son was as rare as they came. Although Arzan was one, he didn''t seem to be well-reputed or important enough. It was too small of a canvas for him to make any conclusions. Why would a Lord, particularly one with a questionable reputation, invite a relatively small-scale merchant like himself? His spice trade, though successful in its own right, hardly gained the attention of a noble. When he had first gotten the invitation, he''d not even believed it. At least, until he had seen the official seal of the kingdom which was used for such an invitation. He had accepted it due to his curiosity and because he wanted to keep doing business in the city, but now that he was soon going to be in front of Arzan, he just felt uneasy. Malden walked down the corridor. The guards long strides were almost hard to keep up. The questions in his mind began to increase as he realised the corridor was about to end. He needed more information if he was going to meet such a person. In his experience, nobles with almost no noise in the public sphere were either worthless or chaotic. He didn''t want to take any chances. How long till we reach the room? Malden asked, striking a conversation with Feroy who slowed and looked back. Just a bit longer. Lord Arzan is waiting for you, so you won''t be held for too long. That''s good. Lord Arzan seems to be a caring man. I wonder what he wants with a merchant like me. He looked up at him expectantly, hoping he would give him something, but he shook his head. I have no idea of that. You would have to see for yourself. Are you sure? Malden held out a coin and the guard stopped. He stared at it for over a second as Malden waited for him to take it. After all, money was never enough, but he started walking again. I told you I have no idea of it. Malden frowned. He hadn''t expected a guard to have such loyalty. It also sprung up more questions in his mind. Lord Arzan will be waiting for you inside, Feroy said, stopping at a door and looking back at Malden. Malden simply nodded. The large, wooden door was in front of him. His fingers played nervously at the hem of his cloak, as he thought of possible motives that Arzan might have wanted to meet him. Malden thought to himself and let the guard knock on the door. When it opened, it revealed two men, sitting beside each other, drinking tea. It was a large room which was probably used for casual meetings. There was one maid in the room. The wooden table in the middle was where the two men sat, both their attention on him. From one glance, Malden could tell who was the lord. Arzan was young with glossy black hair and his features perfectly matched the descriptions he had heard. The man next to him was Francis. Malden had met him twice since he had become a merchant and both of them were brief meetings, so he hardly knew what to expect. He simply walked inside. Its an honour to meet you, Lord Arzan, Malden said, showing the best smile he could manage. With years of experience, he had just gotten better at making a fake smile look as natural as possible. Arzan''s eyes kept on him and he had an inkling he was being judged. Malden, you are on time, Francis said, nodding at him. Have a seat. Malden obliged quickly. He sat and looked in between the two men. The maid swiftly poured him a cup of tea. I apologise that I wasn''t able to bring in any gifts. The invitation was just too abrupt and I didn''t know what to bring. My men would be bringing in batches of spices later on for the estate. There''s no need for that, Arzan spoke for the first time. It''s good enough that you were able to make it. Can I ask what the reason is for you calling me here? He asked, deciding to be straightforward. It was a strategy that had served him well since a lot of nobles didn''t like spending their time with merchants. His curious eyes continue to look at the Lord. I have a question to ask you, he said. What do you think about the city? Is it doing well? Malden barely stopped himself from frowning. He immediately looked at Francis, but the man simply sipped his tea, barely looking at him. Malden looked at Arzan and grinned widely. The city is prosperous, Lord Arzan! The people are happier than they have been- He was cut short with the glare that Arzan threw at him. His smile immediately fell. He could sense that it was the wrong track to take. He wasn''t called here to compliment the lord, there was something bigger going on. Malden sighed. He leaned back in his chair and shifted uncomfortably. His hands fell to his lap and his fingers tangled. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He cleared his throat. Arzans glare was still on his face. Well, my lord If thats what you wantthe territory is facing challenges. People are struggling for coins and food. The cold is the worst it has been in years. It''s common news inside the city about debts to Tradeheart, he paused to take a good look at Arzan. His stare stayed the same, judging every word of his. It''s no secret, my lord. Due to debts to Tradeheart merchant company, youre on the verge of losing your farmland and mines. Arzan''s expression remained impassive, though a subtle nod indicated his understanding. He leaned back in his ornate chair and, after a pause, opened his mouth. Malden flinched hearing his next words. If you were in my place, Malden, what would you do in such a situation? His question rang in Maldens head. If the lord was looking for a solution from him, he was asking the wrong person. He knew how to run a business, but a city was a completely different matter. UhI wouldnt know how to rule a city, my lord. Im a simple merchant. I would rather focus on selling me- Again, he was cut short by a glare. This time, his eyes looked even more stern. Maldens mouth ran dry as he stared back. Malden, I insist on hearing your genuine thoughts. Im aware of the situation around the city, so do tell me. Dont skirt around the issue. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the old man shifting in his seat. Well, you questioned why you are here. Here it is, Lord Arzan wanted to know and gather opinions on specific questions, so itll be better if you cooperate with him. Malden turned to look at Arzan again. His words came in a stutter. My lord, it''s not a simple matter. The situation is complex, and, um, there''s no straightforward solution. Arzan shook his head. Complexity is no excuse for silence. I want your honest opinion. At the moment, he felt like Laxlar was putting him into some sort of a trial. He had only been a God of Light follower because his blessings were known to grant economic benefits. There was nothing about such challenges when he joined the church. Malden sighed. Well, my lord. The truth is, due to the debts to Tradeheart, there is nothing Id be able to do if I were in your position. Unless a sudden miracle happens. A large number of people are currently unemployed due to the mines being not active. Even if we manage to revive the mines again, the bandit issue still pertains. Getting the economy on track would take a very considerable amount of time and resources A year, at the very least. He looked at Francis this time, his eyes glinting with a hopeless stare, There is just no realistic way. What if there is a product that would sell extensively well, that even nobles and common people alike would want it if it reaches them? Arzan asked out of the blue. Malden looked at him strangely, but nodded, agreeing. If something like that is there to sell, Id say yes, it can help the economy by a leap. But, again, realistically, its impossible to make something like that. Lord Arzan, the truth is, it''s nearly impossible to initiate any significant change. The focus here has always been on traditional means of wealth finding mines, selling basic products and providing weapons in wars and conflicts. There''s a lack of innovation and mostly, it''s handled by Mages. You very well know how they are. Arzan stayed silent throughout his explanation, but as soon as he was done, he kept something on the table. *** Kais eyes were on the man whose appearance resembled a rat. He had high cheekbones and a narrow face, with a short height. It wasn''t a striking face, but it would attract attention just because of how unique he looked. He saw how Maldens eyes bore into the glistening Heat stone. He looked confused, checking them. This is a Syphon stone, my lord. What are you showing it to me? Moreover, how can we even earn through this, unless you are going to sell them as mana batteries to Mages? A merchant I know tried that once, but it never worked out. They are too volatile. He lost an arm due to his idea, he said, shaking his head. This is a Heat stone. He said, but Malden''s eyes remained the same. He had no idea what it was. Put your hand over it for a while. I don''t understand. Just do it. Malden glanced at Francis before putting his hand on the Heat stone. Kai had a suspicion he was scared of the stone blasting off his hand. Seconds ticked by and soon, he blinked his eyes, looking down at the stone. His eyes flickered with realisation. It''s giving off heat. Yes, that''s why a Heat stone. It takes your mana and gives off warmth. Though, if you just put it into a room, it would take the ambient mana and won''t drain you until you get too close to it. Malden removed his hand from the Heat stone and picked it up, looking at the seals. He seemed to be lost for words before looking at Kai. Lord Arzan, this would solve a major problem. I have never seen something like this before. How many have you got? he asked, looking at Kai with a glint in his eyes, completely different than before. Kai leaned forward and looking at Malden, he said, I have a surplus. The manufacturing side is complicated, but we can manage more than a dozen a day. What we need is someone to sell them to different places in the kingdom. Understanding what he was saying, Malden''s eyes lifted from the product. It seemed like he was contemplating something and barely holding himself back from jumping to the opportunity. Though, Kai could almost feel his greed reeking from across him by the way Malden looked at him. The whole kingdom was covered in a blanket of snow and something that gave more comfort than even fur was easily going to be a rage. Can I ask a few questions about these? he finally asked. Go on. How long do these last? And these are made from Syphon stones. Are you sure there won''t be any complications? Malden questioned immediately. They will last a year before they need to be changed. As for complications, no, we have not noticed anything yet. We have distributed a few of these to the public and heard no complaints, he said, confidently. So, you do have a price in mind? Malden stared at him. Yes, we do, but it depends on where the product is going to be sold, Francis replied this time, entering the conversation. For common people, we are going to offer reasonable prices that a family could afford and for nobles, it will be more. We will make bigger ones for them. Think of 2 gold coins for a Heat stone. For nobles, we will do 5 gold coins. Hmm. I see. Malden rubbed his chin while thinking to himself. It was clear that wheels turned inside his head as his gaze fixated on the Heat stone. Lord Arzan, I would love to work with you and distribute the product to the whole kingdom, if you wish, he said in the sweetest voice Kai had heard till now. I was thinking in between the lines of 60-40. The 60 percent will go to you of course. Kai huffed. The man was clearly trying to get a better deal than he deserved. Youre not responsible for making the Heat stones, Malden, nor for the materials to make it. Youre just going to distribute them. Do ask for a fair share in this. Malden shook his head. Distributing is the biggest factor, I believe. Like you said, this product needs to reach every corner in the kingdom and Ive good connections inside the big cities to sell these easily, and for a price much higher than what you have in mind, he said and looked at Francis. How about 70-30. I can only reduce my share by that. This time, Francis scoffed. Thats way higher than we expected. We cannot go for that. It is not reasonable. Kai nodded while agreeing with Francis. You have been doing well in the city, Malden. Ive heard about your spices and how well you do the distribution. But, in a cutthroat business like yours, you need something big to become a top merchant. You simply are nowhere to be that; but with this product, your fate might change. Malden nodded slightly and looked down at the Heat stone. Kai took the opportunity and gave his final opinion. I appreciate your role, but again I''m implying, you won''t be manufacturing these, and you won''t be responsible for the raw materials. Your task is distribution. I''ll give you 20 percent, and that''s final. But, my lord Malden hesitantly started by saying but was soon cut off. No more negotiations. Take it or leave it. Kais stern look fell on him. The merchant fell silent. Kai knew he was closer to agreeing to a 20 percent share. He wouldn''t have gone for someone like Malden otherwise. My lord, the risks involved in distribution are significant. I should be adequately compensated for He didnt seem to give up on his idea of gaining more. At this time, Kai frowned and Malden flinched. He shook his head, disagreeing clearly. I won''t go beyond 20 percent. My lord, this is an opportunity for both of us. I should have a more significant share. AT least, I think Kai saw how his nose scrunched up in frustration. I understand your concerns, but my terms are non-negotiable. Take a moment to think it over, he said and leaned back. This is a very fair deal, Malden. I hope youre smart enough to realise the terms on your end and how fair theyre to you. Kai calmly said. Malden visibly looked like he was contemplating the biggest decision of his life. His hands clenched and he sipped on the tea. It had already gone cold, but he didn''t seem to notice. Very well, my lord. We have a deal of 80-20. Finally, he spoke, looking up at Kai. Alright, you made a wise decision. I will send you a batch of them very soon. You can talk further details with Francis, Kai said with a smile and nodded at Francis. Now that theyve gotten a distributor, things could move fast. *** Malden passed the guards who stayed outside the room with their spears in their hands. He couldnt help the smile that crept to his face. They in return, looked at him weirdly. But it didn''t matter to Malden. His valuation of Arzan drastically changed in his mind. He was no worthless discarded noble. Opposite to that, he seemed to be someone who knew what he wanted and wasn''t one to budge. He had no idea how he had gotten the Heat Stone, but if the partnership continued, he would know of it sooner or later. From the start, Malden had only been called because he fit into a position where he wasn''t a big merchant but had all the networks of one. So, he was naturally inclined to not negotiate further, in case he lost the product. He didn''t know what to think of it, but if the Heat stone worked as expected, the Tradeheart merchant company would certainly regret burning the bridges with Arzan. 12. Routine and corruption Kai woke up as the numbness in his hand grew beneath him. His posture had been rather odd throughout the night. He sat straight on his bed and looked outside the window. From the gap, he could see brightness creeping in. It was time to wake up. He stretched his hands and circled his wrists to ease out the nerves. The pain continued to move through his muscles. Kai sighed and inhaled deeply. Within a second, he cast a spell. In no time, he felt his arm heal and get back to normal. Getting out of the bed, he headed towards the bathroom. It''s been a while since he had woken up in the body of Arzan and he had gotten used to how things were. The whole estate would be up and running early in the morning and after breakfast, he would read some book in the library with Claire looking around whatever she found. She knew how to read a few words, but reading a whole book was not easy for her, so she would mostly look at drawings in certain books. It seems like basic education hasn''t progressed yet beyond church school and there it was more about gods and basic history than learning how to read. Obviously, it was different with nobles, but Kai wanted to change this as soon as possible for the commoners too. He had learnt a lot due to Claire and she was more than happy to tell him about the city and how people lived. An excuse of growing up in noble seclusion was enough for her to not question things. S~ea??h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Arzan was anyway a loner, so it wasn''t a lie. After he was done with that, he would immediately focus on making Heat stones throughout the afternoon. The process of making a Heat stone included a lot of mental exhaustion, but at this point, it was almost like a workout to Kai since he was able to train his enchanting skill. It wasn''t a magical art he had leaned towards, but now that he was using it in daily life, he felt like his understanding of seals was just getting better. He also worked on his circle throughout the day and although it was progressing at a slower rate since he was trying to build a solid base, he was happy with what he had gotten till now. It was only possible because his retainers were doing their roles well. He felt at ease knowing Francis took care of all the administration work related to the city and even though he wanted to help the people, he had to wait. Until he got over the debt, there was hardly anything that he could do to help the people. One more thing holding his focus was the mystery of Arzans death. What was he trying to do with the ritual? What was the original purpose of it? Was his death a conspiracy or he had simply done things wrong? Those questions would often pop up in his mind throughout the day. He had tried finding more about the ritual in the library and his room, but there was nothing. The patterns and symbols used in it were unknown to him and he was going nowhere with them. If Arzan had actually killed himself for the ritual, then he must be confident that it would work, but there was nothing to validate that. The only person who might have a clue was Actra. He had been in his quarters for weeks. From what he had heard from Francis, it was due to some research that kept him busy. He used to be close to Arzan and even knew why he had taken on the debt, so if there was a soul-sacrificing ritual, he would surely know of it and might even be a part of it. Kai had tried meeting him but had no luck. A part of him wanted to interrogate him, but again, if he was a conspirator in Arzan''s death, then he needed to be careful. If his strength was anywhere around the 3rd circle or even the peak of the 2nd circle, he wouldn''t be able to counter him. For now, he focused on his other problems. Aside from the debt, there was the situation with the mana weaver. He needed to make regular visits to remove the corruption, therefore he used his evening to do so. Fortunately, the weaver seemed to be making decent progress. The corruption seemed to haven''t taken place in his body deeply, so it was a tad bit easy to exterminate it. There were also no signs of corruption that showed up in its family members, so at least that was a positive. The last thing he needed was more mana weavers in his territory. Kai walked through the corridors, being used to them now. He gave a brief nod to Feroy, the same guard who accompanied him for the past few days. Their usual conversation started with mana weavers condition. How is he after yesterday? He asked as they walked. Feroy had been tasked to keep track on the weaver''s progress. He had been a big help to Kai and his fear towards the weaver had also gone down considerably after noticing the effects of the healing. The guards eyes flickered as he replied, Hes in a much better condition now, Lord Arzan. Hes even eating food without making any noises. I noticed that his hands are much less shaky now. And um Even without the Syphon stone, he has been behaving. Kai nodded with a smile. It seemed like it wouldn''t take long for its human side to surface again. If Kai wasn''t at the 1st circle, he would have already used a spell to recover the mind of the weaver, but in his current state, a spell like that was risky. He had to let the weaver come out of the corruption on its own. The only external help he could do was to destroy the corruption with his own mana. Open this, Kai said and Feroy quickly opened the gate to the dungeon prison. They walked inside to meet the mana weaver as usual. As he saw the weaver, Kai noticed the changes in his body. It sat on the ground with chains binding its arms and legs. Compared to the first time he had seen him, the corruption had gone down by a lot and he looked a lot less pale. The black lines in his arms and neck had thinned considerably, leaving scars behind. It looked up at Kai and he saw its pupils. Previously, its eyes were blackened, but now it looked much more human. Even the mutation on his face was lessening with the flesh coming back up and the claws turning back to fingers again. Kai sat on the floor and looked at the mutant guard. Taking a deep breath in, he extended his hand and grabbed it''s hand. Unlike before, the weaver didn''t try to be aggressive and simply stared at Kai. It had gotten tamer with each session and with the corruption lessening, the human part of the weaver seemed to have recognised Kai as a helper rather than an enemy. It had only made his job easier. He exhaled and sent a wave of mana through him to the mana weaver. Kai could feel the mana going inside the veins with less struggle than before. The battleground beneath the skin of the mana weaver was much calmer. It allowed him to push a considerable amount of mana through its veins. The corruption tried to eat away at the mana, but it was weak and Kai was able to destroy whatever was left in his arms. If he was right, its hands would return to normal in two days. He inhaled deeply once again and his hand went up to touch its neck. It was the final rush of mana Kai would be using for the day. Within seconds, he sent a surge of mana inside. Normally, it was harder to destroy the corruption in this area, but he had gotten used to the weaver''s body and was able to exterminate a chunk of the corruption. The weaver shook a bit as he continued, but it was just an effect of his mana entering its body. Once that was done, his hands fell to his sides as he stood up, giving one last look to the weaver who kept looking up at him before turning around. W-water water. A gravelly voice came from behind. Kai''s eyes widened as he realised where it had come from. He quickly turned around. Get some water. Quick! He heard Feroy''s footsteps running to get water. Kai sat down where he was and took another look at the mana weaver. Its eyes looked at Kai pleadingly. A shine that was missing before seemed to have returned as he got back his speech. Feroy was quick to return with a pot of water as Kai removed the metallic chains. The weaver chugged down the water with a fervour. It dripped from the sides of its mouth, but it didn''t care. It drank like someone who was kept parched for days. Kai scooted forward and kept his hand on the left side of its chest. He didnt say anything but continued to heal more of the corruption within its body. Kai sent waves and waves of mana inside its body. He physically felt how its body reacted to the mana. It absorbed as much as pure mana possible, and the corruption continued to fade away. He grabbed its wrist and noticed that it''s heartbeat was returning to normal. Mana weaver''s heartbeat was much faster than humans and its getting back to normal was a good sign. He sent another wave of mana, aiming at his heart, but realised that his mana pool was almost empty. He frowned, but there was not much he could do. He looked up at the weaver who had almost finished the water. How are you feeling now? I-I feel b-better. As the mostly healed guard managed to voice out, Kai noticed its broken tongue. It would take a few hours to get better as the man gets used to speaking again. Thats good. You should be healed within a few days. It wont take long, Kai said. Thank y-you so much. I-Im sorry for the t-troubles I c-caused The half-healed guard looked at Kai and then looked at Feroy. Kai simply nodded. Its okay. Youre healing now, thats what matters. My- My f-family? A-are they a-alive? it suddenly asked, looking agitated. It almost seemed like it would get up and start looking for its family. Once someone turned into a weaver, their family would be killed alongside them. It was how things worked in this era, so the horror in its eyes was understandable. Theyre alive. Dont worry. We kept them inside the cell for some time to check if the corruption spread, but they haven''t been affected. Theyre now back to their home, Kai said, assuring in a confident tone. The guard visibly relaxed at that and Kai took a deep breath. His healing had finally worked and from the way the guard behaved, it seemed like his memory was intact. He didn''t want to deal with someone who had gotten amnesia due to turning into a mana weaver. Kai had seen a few cases like that in his previous life. What is your name? Kai asked. He couldnt remember anyone mentioning what its name was. They all continued to call it mana weaver and monster, but now that the man was returning to normal, he wanted to ask a few questions. Palman, Im P-Palman. Palman, what do you remember last before turning into a mana weaver? he asked. His eyes bore into the guard. The latters eyes squinted as it struggled to answer straight away. After a few seconds, it replied. I d-didnt realise what was happening. I remember, for a week, I was angry. I kept getting angrier and angrier, lashed out at family, then I lost consciousness. I felt trapped in my own body, he mumbled the last part. With time, his stutters seemed to be reducing. Something it took over me. I remember seeing blood, but it was too hazy. Palman briefly looked at Feroy and lowered its head in shame. His expression matched with what Kai was expecting and he nodded. Did you come in contact with any corruption? He asked the question that he really wanted to know. The guard fell into a deep thought. His frown remained on the ground as the silence took over. Soon, he replied, I dont know. I-I dont remember if I did. Okay, do you remember if you felt sick after visiting any place in the past few months? A wave of realisation passed through its eyes as it looked at Kai and nodded. Tell me everything about it, he said and the guard began to recount. I was in the Vasper forest. I had gone to my village and went to get some wood since I was there for a few days, the winter was harsh. But, I was distracted by a thornbuck It looked at Feroy and Kai. It looked small enough to subdue and seemed perfect to hunt, so I went deeper into the forest chasing it. Kai remembered the Vasper forest connected to the eastern side of the territory. It was a wide forest filled with monsters and small animals. A lot of people would venture there to get wood to burn. It ran deeper and I missed my shot, so I gave up. It was getting darker and I didn''t want to stay in the forest for long. And then once I returned my body was feverish. For three days, I was in bed. After that, I was okay. I came back to the city and went to practise as usual, and did my duties, but always felt strange like I was still sick. Vasper forest. From his words, Kai deduced that the root of the corruption must be somewhere in the forest. Nothing else would explain Palman getting corrupted out of nowhere. After the questioning, He stood up and turned to look at Feroy. Get him a room in the estate, He ordered. But, hes not fully healed yet- Feroy said, his eyes going to Palman''s face. Parts of it still resembled an undead. The man is not a weaver anymore. Hell fully heal in the next few days, as I said. Get him a room. Dont keep him in the cell anymore. Kai was much clearer this time. The guard simply nodded. *** Kai focused on his breath and absorbed the ambient mana from the air. Moving it around in circles, he felt a sense of serenity. Since he had gotten the taste of building up his circles in his previous life, he had gotten obsessed with it. He knew not every mage liked it as it was tedious and time-consuming. Tons of mages preferred playing around with the spells and learning new things, but for Kai, building up the circles simply meant a larger pool of mana to draw from. He liked the feeling of getting stronger and Knock knock knock! He looked at the door and frowned, not happy with the distraction. Come in, Kai said aloud, exhaling after taking a deep breath. The door opened up, revealing Killian. He seemed to be coming back after training as sweat was on his forehead. He walked in and gave a bow. Lord Arzan, am I disturbing you? Killian asked, his curiosity-filled eyes staring at him. Kai shook his head. Not really. Youre here to ask about the Mana weaver, right? he asked back. He would have already been informed about the weaver healing from the corruption by now. Kai had been expecting either him or Francis to find him to talk about it since the matter had been hanging above their heads for weeks. Yes, I heard that the weaver started speaking again. Feroy informed me about it and said that you healed it, he said. Kai nodded. Yes, it took time, but I was able to destroy the corruption from the weaver''s body. He''s now a human again, he said and changed it to he in his mind. The man wasn''t a monster anymore. The process is a bit complicated to explain, but simply, as it was a newly transformed mutant, I was able to help him revert to a human. Killians eyes widened and he sat down on a chair next to his bed. I never knew something like that was possible. Where did you learn that? He asked, his eyes shining. I always wanted to be a mage, and Ive learnt a lot of theory- Kai continued to say, feeling guilty about lying, but he couldn''t simply say that it was the normal thing to do in his previous life. -But recently, I found a way to awaken my core. So, everything I learnt before, I was able to utilise it. Killian nodded. I knew that you had a few complications with it. It felt like he was going to ask more about it, so Kai decided to change the subject. Well, there''s one more thing I wanted to talk to you about, he said. We have to head to the forest. Killian looked back in confusion. Vasper forest? Yes. Why? he asked. I talked to the mana weaver today. His name is Palman. I wanted to know where he got corrupted and he said that he went to the forest and once he returned, he got sick for three days. I know for a fact that thats how he got the corruption. Have you been to the Vasper forest? Killian nodded at the question. I went to the Vasper forest for a few hunts. It''s big and dangerous, but right now, most of the dangerous monsters wont be there. Theyd all be in the dungeon due to the cold. Kai frowned. Dungeon? He briefly recalled the forest having a dungeon, but it slipped his mind in between everything. He stood up and walked towards his bookshelf. Grabbing the book he brought from the library that had all the maps belonging to the kingdom, he placed it on the table. He pushed it to the side so Killian could see. His eyes squinted as he pointed at the location where Vasper forest was. Is there a village surrounding the forest? I think Palman belongs to one too. Yes, it''s there, Killian pointed out a location in the corner of the forest. We should head around there, Kai said and looked at the location. Why? What do you mean by Palman getting corrupted in the forest? Killian questioned, noticing Kais stern gaze on the map. It seems like mana fiends are in the territory. There''s no other explanation as to why he got corrupted. If we don''t stop them, the whole territory might be in ruins. Kais serious voice filled the room. 13. Vasper forest They can corrupt everything? How so? Killian asked, his face scrunched up in a frown. Kai had told him about the mana fiends and how he suspected that they were the root cause of corruption spreading in the forest. After all, it won''t come out of nowhere. Everything has a reason and the mana fiends were often responsible for corruption. The corruption can only happen when theres an area of dead mana around, and mana fiends are basically corrupted beasts that use dead mana, he paused, seeing that Killian seemed a bit confused. Think of it like this. Mages use mana from their surroundings. Common people also use mana even if they can''t do any spells. These fiends simply use mana that has lost its properties and has toxic energy in it. That''s why we call it dead mana. Killian nodded this time. He seemed to be dealing with some thoughts as he looked down at the map. I have not come across these fiends before, but they seem similar to the weavers. They are, Kai said. They both are similar creatures. Although weavers are naturally agile and dangerous, they can also process dead mana. Common people know of them because they often appear in cities. Fiends are much more dangerous, mostly monsters who have been transformed and live in deeper parts of a forest. Wherever they would appear, the area would start to corrupt, becoming a dead mana zone. He looked down at the map again, his fingers hovering over the Vasper forest. Palman probably came in contact with the dead mana there and got affected, Kai said He did his best to explain how the corruption worked since Killian seemed to have no idea of the terms. Going by how he wanted to kill the weaver at first glance, Kai had expected it. But, cant it be that this was simply a demons curse? Ive heard and even witnessed some of those. We had to call bishops from the church to help. Killians gaze stumbled upon Kai. Kai shook his head immediately. I talked to the family before they were released. Palman used to go to the church and a god''s domain is naturally protected, so a curse would have been noticed by the clerics there. And demonic powers have a certain mana signature. This is certainly not that. He''s not a demons servant. Not to mention, if Palman was cursed, my healing wouldnt have helped him at all, only a bishop would be able to help. Though, in most cases, a demonic curse means trading your soul, so most bishops would probably execute, he said as a matter of fact. Killian continued to nod, taking the information in. The knowledge of corruption and dead mana was not widespread among common people here. It obviously was there in certain areas where mana fiends were more likely to be seen, but here, it seems like they had largely lived in peace, barring a few monster attacks and bandits. Dead mana and the effect it had on people only started to spread and harm the world during the golden era of magic. During that time, wars had created several dead mana zones, leading to the rise of mana fiends. Those beasts have grazed countless towns and cities to their graves since their power had increased by bounds. It was a whole other part of history that was yet to come. Killian, are there any more cases of corruption, or people disappearing after going to the Vasper forest recently? Kai asked. If Palmans corruption came from the forest, it was highly likely that there could be more people who were affected. Some people might even not know that they are being corrupted before they turn into weavers and other Inhumans. Mana fiends also had habits of capturing people to slowly affect them and make them a part of their community. Uh Killian looked away for a second to think if he had heard any. I dont think there were any cases related to corruption or disappearances, but I will check up on that immediately, my lord. I would have to take a look at the records and ask my subordinates. Kai nodded. Let me know if there are. Keep an eye on the people who go to the forest frequently. And gather details from the villages around the forest, he said. If mana fiends were in the forest, it was his duty to kill them. Killian or the others might have not seen their might, but Kai had fought countless battles against them and lost his close friends to them. He had an oath to make sure the world didn''t fall in their grasp again. Yes, I will. Killian gave a brief nod. I will make arrangements for us to go to the forest. It wouldnt take long, but I need to make sure that we have everything with us before we go down to explore. We cant come back halfway, he said, his eyes stern. For a second, Kai felt like he was actually excited to go on a quest. Yes, okay. When can we leave? Kai questioned. Before they would leave, Kai knew he had to strengthen his mana heart. He doubted he would be able to advance to the 2nd circle, but he could try to grow more and learn a few things about his new body. Give me a week. I will let you know soon, Lord Arzan. Killians determined voice came out rather promisingly. Kai nodded in return. *** The courtyard was busy with activity as Kai stood outside with Francis and a few other guards. In front of them, there was a carriage laden with crates of Heat stones inside. From the outside, Kai could still feel the warmth permeated by them. They were all the Heat stones Kai had managed to make in the past week or so. The carriage stood tall and robust, its wooden frame intricately carved with swirling patterns reminiscent of ancient runes, similar to the symbols that were on Arzans bedroom hearth. It seemed like a tradition of the wealthy and noble to carve such symbols, one that hadn''t carried on in the future. In front of the carriage, Maldens focus was on his men. He gave them a few orders to be careful with the Heat stones before moving to stand near Francis and Kai, wanting to make conversation. His greedy eyes looked back and forth between the crates. My Lord, this batch is good enough to sell for a considerable amount in different places. I would be travelling to every big city and it wouldnt take me long to sell these! Malden said, looking at Kai with a smile on his face. His smile was so big that even a court jester''s grin would pale in comparison. Kai simply nodded, thinking that no matter what eras, merchants had stayed the same. He had dealt with similar kinds in his previous life. I believe you will do the work just fine, Malden, Francis said and continued to look at more crates being loaded onto the carriage. Malden nodded, That I will, that I will! He turned around and walked towards the guards. "We''ve got a good batch here, lads. These heat stones will fetch us a tidy sum in the city. Make sure you don''t break them while carrying them. They are crystals in the end," Malden said, eyeing the crates with satisfaction. For his excitement, he continued to say the same thing over and over to the guards, gaining more attention. The guards nodded in agreement, looking a bit lost for words at his over-enthusiasm. They were accompanying him for security. Both for himself and the Heat stones. Kai knew he couldn''t be too trusting with a merchant, so he had told Killian to prepare a few guards for the journey. It was additional assurance for him. Malden didn''t object to it since the more guards, the better for him. With bandits roaming around and even monster attacks, one could never have enough security. As Malden was trying to make conversation with the guards, Kai felt good thinking of all the work he had done. It hadn''t been easy since he hardly was an enchanter, but it had worked out well in the end. With the amount of Heat stones they had, they could easily provide warmth for two villages in total. The loading continued further. The guards moved with ease with the crates, keeping one on top of the other, not wanting to do any harm to the Heat stones. Malden walked back towards Kai and Francis. Are you going to Rivenshore first? Francis asked, looking over to him. Yes, I''ve already had discussions with traders in the City of Rivenshore and you know, it has a sizable population hit hard by the cold," he replied. "It''s a city under the influence of the noble house Veridian and I know them quite well. With their backing, I''m certain we''ll sell all the heat stones in no time." Sarch* The ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He continued, a sly gleam in his eye, "And that''s not all. I''ve reserved a few special batches for the other lower nobles in Rivenshore. They always appreciate the finer things, and these heat stones will make quite an impression." The twinkle in his eye was clearly not unnoticeable. Kai nodded his head in approval. "Keep us updated. Send letters every week, Malden. We need to know how things progress. Oh, and don''t try to do anything crafty. I have put a mark on you. I will know where you will be at all moments." A mark, my lord? One to track you. You do know I''m a Mage, Malden, he lied, patting Malden''s shoulders as he paled. It was an act to ensure the proper safety of his stones since he couldn''t trust him wholly. He had already revealed himself to Malden as a Mage, so the merchant was more respectful than usual. I will make sure there are no complaints! He said and moved to stand a few steps away. As soon as the conversation ended, he couldnt help but notice that the only way of communication was to send and receive letters. He recalled there had been a technology to get messages fast that was famous for a small period of time, but with wars, it had gotten lost. It resulted in the world moving back to letters by merchants. Sometimes, trained beasts also flew across cities to deliver things, but these methods seemed too inefficient to Kai. With a quick thought, he promised himself that he would develop a better method this time once he became a Magus again. Malden gave a confident nod as the loading ended. The guards got on a carriage behind the ones with the crates and Malden bid goodbye to Kai and Francis before making his exit. As the carriage rumbled away, Kai heard Francis sigh. What is it? he questioned as he saw Francis had his eyebrows knitted. For some reason, he looked nervous. His hands were in front of him and he was fidgeting. Francis voiced his concern, "Well, Lord Arzan If I may? Kai nodded. He couldnt help the feeling that Francis was still walking on eggshells around him. He had barely said anything throughout the time they had been standing together. What is it, Francis? he asked again. Heat stones are too valuable to be guarded by just a few guards. If someone knows the worth of those crates, they can easily take the guards down and keep it to their own benefit. We wouldnt be able to do anything after they are muggled. Why isn''t Knight Killian going with them? Isnt it always better to be safe than sorry?" His concerns came in a rush as he looked at him. Its alright, Francis. Nothing like that would happen. The guards are well-trained, and Malden knows what he is doing. Killian needs to go somewhere with me, therefore, he cant guard the Heat stones. Francis raised an eyebrow. "Where does Killian need to go?" Right when Kai was about to answer his question, quick steps rang out from behind. Both Kai and Francis turned around to see Killian with his brows furrowed in a tight-knit, his gaze intense. He looked at Kai. You were right, Lord Arzan. There had been a few disappearances in some villages. And from what I gathered, all of them seem to be around the forest. Why hasn''t anyone done anything about it? Won''t the villages have their own guards protecting them? He partially had an idea why they hadnt tried doing anything, but he wanted to know clearly what was the reason behind it. Killian shook his head. "It''s the cold season. Many try to hunt monsters for their pelts and fur, and some end up getting killed. Plus, even guards don''t want to venture deep into the forest in this cold. It''s a mess." Kai thought about the situation, taking a few seconds. He looked between Killian and Francis. The latter interjected, What is going on, Lord Arzan? Kai responded thoughtfully, Well, Francis, Killian is going on an expedition with me. There seem to be dangerous monsters known as mana fiends in the Vasper forest and if we don''t do anything, they will try to corrupt everyone in the territory. 14. Who doesn’t like soup? An expedition? Franciss nose scrunched up in disapproval. Kai could feel how he felt by his immediate reaction. Francis looked between both Kai and Killian, questioning what was going on. Yes, Francis. We will head over to the Vasper forest as soon as were ready. Lord Arzan suspects mana fiends are there and I want to take a look at it too, Killian said and looked at him. Francis shook his head. Lord Arzan, I don''t think you should head on an expedition. You have never been on one and I don''t know what mana fiends are, but if they are really dangerous, why not send an envoy of guards to take a look? It''s not wise to risk your life when things are finally looking up for the territory. If we dont go, the whole territory might be in danger. Mana fiends grow at a rapid pace, so whatever time we save, it would benefit us, he said and noticed Francis opening his mouth to argue again. I dont want any more questions or arguments about it. I will be heading on the expedition with Killian. His unyielding voice filled the air as he ended the conversation with Francis and looked up at Killian. Killian, get the best men we have and leave just enough to protect the city. Explain about mana fiends to everyone and tell them that it will be dangerous, so they mentally prepare themselves. Take three days to get everything prepared. I will be in my room if needed, He said and looked between the two men. Yes, Lord Arzan! Both said in unison and there were no arguments this time. One good thing about being a noble was the authority it gave. Kai could understand why so many nobles were so arrogant. There would be no one to go against their command, so they would obviously get an air of superiority. He was not like them and was only in a hurry because of the nature of the mana fiends. Kai turned around and excused himself. From the corner of his eyes, he saw how Killian was explaining everything to Francis. For a moment, he felt bad for him since from his understanding of him, the old man didn''t wish bad on him even after the original Arzan had wasted so much time and not cared about the territory. He probably didn''t want something in the way when things were looking up for them with the heat stones. If he knew the mana fiends and corruption, he would himself give priority to it. Kai sighed on his way. He wondered if he should work on giving education on corruption, mana fiends and other basic things to everyone once he came back from the expedition as he started walking towards his room. Though that was for later. For now, he had to focus on the expedition. If more people had disappeared, then it was very likely that they were dealing with at least a dozen fiends. Kai didn''t know how strong they would be, but he needed to prepare as much as he could. He reached his room, and closing the door, he walked towards the front of the bed. He sat on the floor and brought his legs closer, crossing them and straightening his back. Kai first focused on his breath, inhaling and exhaling the pure mana in the air. The rest of the room fell into a peaceful silence as he consciously started pushing the mana to run in circles around his Mana Heart. Strengthening his mana circle included making the Mana Heart absorb as much ambient mana as possible until it was ready to advance. Normally, that required a lot of practice for a 1st circle Mage. It was hard for them to absorb mana and most of them would slip out with only parts of it being absorbed. It was different for Kai who could absorb the ambient mana as easily as breathing. Though, he preferred to go in a meditative state to do it. For the next few hours, he kept doing the same thing, taking all the ambient mana from the air when suddenly, he remembered the last incident before he regressed. The minotaurs appearance played in his head as if it happened just yesterday. It was too strong and Kai was barely holding onto his strength. Being a Magus and a 5th circle mage had its own perks, but he was fighting with a fraction of his strength since all the surrounding mana was corrupted. He was the last Magus alive and now, he had come back to the past, hoping to change the world from the path of destruction it had headed on. Still, he had never thought he would deal with a mana fiend so early. He sighed. Sarch* The N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The memory of his last days sent shivers down his spine. The mana fiends here couldnt be that powerful. With men and his spells, he should be able to deal with them. Kai opened his eyes. He extended his hand, palm faced upwards. He thought of the spell structure in his mind and developed it, letting his fingertips light a small ball of fire. A smile danced on his lips. Arzan seemed to be compatible enough with the element of fire. Mostly, every Mage would have an array of spells, ranging from wards to explosive spells. They also attempted to have mastery over the elements, mostly starting from one element of their choice which they had an affinity with. Even when he was Kai, his main element to use in battle was fire. He was good at controlling it and using it in a variety of ways to control the tide of battle. Kai thought. Arzan seemed to hold the same affinity. He didn''t know what other affinities he might have since most Mages would have anywhere from two to three, but he would find out. The fire at his fingertips danced to their own rhythm. They moved left and right at Kais command. He knew he wouldnt be able to cast stronger spells easily due to the mana cost, but he was content with the current pace. He shifted the ball of fire from one hand to his other hand, feeling the strong sense of magic that surged within his body. It felt much better than having an unawakened Mana Heart. Suddenly, his stomach rumbled making a noise. He looked up outside the window and saw that it was already midnight. It seemed like a servant might have come to ask him for dinner, but since Kai hadn''t responded, he hadn''t bothered. He withdrew his hands to his sides, calming the fire down and stood up to walk outside. The torches were still lit up. He took the stairs and decided to see what was left in the kitchen. A midnight snack would be enough for his stomach. From a few steps away, he could see half of the kitchen area. It was an enclosed space but was enough for twenty workers to work without stumbling upon each other. The flickering light of torches scattered throughout the hall. In the middle of the room, there was a large rough-hewn wooden table for food preparation. On one side of the room, which Kai could easily see, a large hearth dominated. Kai took a few steps closer to the doorframe but halted in his footsteps as he heard voices. They were shushed enough to not be heard when he walked through the staircase but they were loud enough to hear through the wall that separated them. He silently took another step forward and perked up his ears. ... And the Heat stones were just glistening from afar. Did you notice the crate? A womans excited voice came through. Oh! Yes, I believe I took a peek while they were passing through. Is it true that Lord Arzan makes all of them by himself? Another woman said. Yes, he does! A third voice said and this time, Kai recognised it. It was the voice of Claire. A part of him wanted to listen more to what seemed like maid gossip, but it also seemed rude. So, he stepped forward, revealing himself. A maid who had her hands on Claire''s shoulder as she talked paled, noticing him and nearly fell. All of them stood up. Their eyes were wide and filled with shock. I got hungry, so I came down to eat something, Kai said and looked in between the ladies. Some of their mouths were still wide open. L-Lord Arzan, please, have a seat at the diner. I will get you something immediately, A red-haired maid said and walked to get him something. Kai shook his head immediately. No, its alright. His eyes roamed around to find anything that could be a quick meal to fill his stomach. He searched around, and they landed on herbs that were lying on the corner of the vegetable crate. He recognised what they were. Im just going to make a soup from these verdura herbs, Kai said and grabbed a bunch from the crate. You are going to cook, Lord Arzan? One maid asked, not believing his words. Yes, he said and looked towards Claire. Claire, can you help me with the vegetables? He asked and she immediately nodded, still a bit shocked seeing him in the kitchen. The rest of the maids stayed where they were, unable to process what was happening in front of their eyes. From how they looked at Kai, he knew that they were not comfortable with him being in the kitchen, or preparing something on his own. Claire stepped forward and grabbed a few vegetables. The collection of knives beneath the wooden table was quite the sight. She grabbed one and immediately started cutting the fresh vegetables. Kai grabbed a pot full of water from the corner of the table and started washing the herbs carefully. What are you making, Lord Arzan? Claires voice came out loud as her curiosity-filled gaze fell upon him. A verdura soup, he simply said and continued to boil some water. From the look on Claires face, he realised that she had no idea about a soup that could be made from these herbs. Verdura herbs were common, but they were used more for seasoning rather than making soup. They needed to be used profusely but carefully, as the aroma and the taste were much stronger than using normal herbs. In a way, it was similar to using rosemary, but verdura had its own benefits. The recipe he was making right now was one his master had taught him. Here are the vegetables, Claire placed them within his reach and walked back to the other maids. Within ten minutes, the water was boiling, and Kai added a pinch of salt. After that, he continued to add a few more ingredients so the vegetables could soak the taste of them. He continued adding the vegetables to the boiling pot, and last, he added the herbs. The robust aroma immediately filled the air when he did. He could sense all the pairs of eyes on him as he continued to ladle the soup. As he continued to do that, he heard shuffles and bowls from behind. The maids were preparing his bowl to eat. Get a bowl each for yourself too. I made a lot. Kai smiled. Lord Arzan, that''s not required. Claire and the others waved their hands in denial. Just do it. Can''t let the soup go to waste. They didn''t say anything else and put out bowls. As soon as the soup was ready, he turned around. The maids looked at each other. Their eyes were talking to each other even though their mouths were sealed shut. The red-haired maid shook her head immediately. The soup is for you, My Lord. Please, let us serve it to you. We are not even hungry t-to share the soup. The rest of the maids only nodded, agreeing with her. I insist. Claire, take your bowl and come here, Kai said and looked at Claire. He knew she wouldnt say no or reject his goodwill. She grabbed a bowl that was on the side and walked forward to where he was. Bring bowls for others too, Kai said while grabbing the bowl from her hand and serving the soup with the ladle in his hand. Claire soon kept a bunch of bowls in front of him. Kai grabbed one after another and started serving them. The maids who were profusely confused at what was happening, simply walked forward and took the soups in their hands. They glanced at each other and it didn''t seem like they were going to taste it. Just drink it, he said and they nodded. As soon as Claire took a sip from the soup, her eyes widened. She licked her lips and continued to take more tastes from the bowl. The rest of the maids had a similar reaction. This This is well-made! one of the maids said as she wiped her mouth from the back of her hand. Lord Arzan, would you be able to give us the recipe? We can always make this for dinner. Kai nodded, Sure. He finally grabbed his bowl of soup and took a sip himself. The soup was really quite good. *** The guards were standing in front of the estate''s gate with their spears in their hands. Clad in their armours, some seemed to be excited, but others looked nervous as they stood. Kai watched them from the back. His eyes looked at them, but they didn''t seem to notice him. He raked through the guards to see Palman. Among the twenty people that were lined up, Palman was talking to another guard. The guard''s expression was of a scowl as Palman lowered his head before walking away. He seemed to be apologising and Kai didn''t have to guess to know why. If he could, he wouldn''t have included him in the expedition. His face looked normal and although he was a bit paler than most, he would be okay in a week or two. The only reason Kai had included him was because he needed directions to know where exactly he had ventured to find the location of the corruption. Feroy too was standing in his uniform. He had volunteered himself to go on the expedition, and Killian had approved, telling Kai that he was good at handling a spear. As he stood in the courtyard, a voice called out to him. Turning back, he saw Killian. Lord Arzan, the men are ready to move. All of them are armed and we have additional supplies in the carriage. I believe we will be able to come back in a week, he said, looking over to the horses and carriage. Thats all well. Killian- Kai was about to say something when he heard something and stopped. A masculine voice came from behind. Knight Killian. Both Kai and Killian turned back, only to see a man in robes coming out of the entrance. Mage Actra, Killian said and Kai widened his eyes. 15. Actra Actra walked forward, revealing himself to both Kai and Killian. This was the first time Kai had seen the man and he looked much older than what he had expected. His eyes were framed with a network of fine lines, wrinkled with ages of experience. He was dressed in a long robe, which had different symbols stitched to it. They seem to resemble either a noble house or an organisation. His guess was on the latter since it wasn''t the emblem of the Duke household he had seen in his room. He had white hair and a long, white beard that went past his chin. The most striking thing about him was his green eyes. His fingers, filled with rings, came in contact with his beard as he scratched it with one hand. Kai could bet that all of those rings were enchanted or at least valuable in monetary value. It was hard to say. One thing he knew was that Actra was strong. He secretly checked the amount of mana in his Mana Heart and guessed that he was at least at the peak of the 3rd circle or the beginning of the 4th. He needed to tread carefully here as Actra was his biggest threat, simply because, unlike the rest of his retainers, the man screamed shady. Good morning, Mage Actra, Kai greeted and looked at him. Actra looked up. His eyes raked down Kais figure, taking a good look at him. Kai calmly stayed still. Good evening. I have been in my room for too long. You look much healthier now, Arzan, he said and looked at Killian. I heard that theres an expedition to the forest, I believe its true? he asked, turning to take a glance at the guards and horses. Then, his eyes fixated on Kai. Besides him, Killian seemed to be lost for words, seeing how intensely both Kai and Actra were looking at each other. Yes, there is something that needs to be taken care of, Kai replied. Actras green eyes seemed to reveal everything and nothing at the same time as he stared. Are you going too, Arzan? Yes. If I''m not wrong, it seems to be the truth that you have awakened as a Mage, Actra said, his eyes shining. Oh, yes. I have. Did you hear about it? I heard that youre busy with some research of your own? Kai retaliated with another question. Actra withdrew his eyes from Kai. Im in the middle of it. And, things reach my ears quite often. I couldnt believe it until I saw you. Your organs seem to be working fine now. Kai smiled. Of course, things reached his ears. Its either that a maid or guard had told him or Actra kept a close eye on Arzan. A higher possibility was the latter among the two, but Kai shrugged it off. Thinking that it was a chance, he stepped forward and whispered, Yes. It is all thanks to the ritual. His eyes bore into Actra to see at least a flicker of emotions. And for a second, he felt like there was something in his eyes, but it was quickly shielded away. I''m glad to be of help, he said and looked at him with a smile. That at least confirmed that he had something to do with the ritual, but what? Was it something that worked or was it a hoax to kill Arzan? There was no answer to that for now. He couldn''t just ask as it might give away his identity. Arzan suddenly awakening as a Mage would be enough for him to suspect something, especially if he was involved in his death. He needed to tread carefully here. Actra didn''t seem like he was going to tell him more about the ritual. Kai thought and decided to play another move. Well, Mage Actra, if you don''t mind, why don''t you come with us to the expedition? It will be a big help if a Mage of your calibre would be around, he asked. The closer he kept him, the better he would be able to gauge his strength and motives. Actra immediately shook his head and his long hair waved left and right when he did that. I still have to work on my research and that needs my complete attention. This just doesnt seem like a big expedition that needs my powers, especially with Killian here to assist you He nodded at Kai and continued. Id rather let you take all the glory. Kai nodded. Its alright. He had expected it. The old man really didn''t like to leave his room. He wondered what kind of research he was doing, but he could pry into it later. I only came out because I heard Arzan was going out, he said. I also wanted to know for sure if the rumours about your awakening are true. Your father would be happy to hear that. Kai nodded once again, wincing slightly at the mention of his father. If he could, he wanted to avoid Arzan''s family as long as he could. Lord Arzan, we need to get going. Killians voice came, distracting Kai and Actra from their stares. Mage Actra, I will see you around. Killian gave a respectful nod to the Mage and walked away. I need to go now, Kai said with a smile. Actra nodded and walked back towards the estate, not bothering to look behind. Two guards brought a horse and halted it right in front of Kai. With ease, he got onto the horse. Horse riding had been basic training by his master and even Arzan had been taught the skill because it had been a part of a noble basic education. Though with a different body, he could feel the difference when he got on to the horse. His weight was not helping, but he managed to sit on top of the horse. Everyone ready? Killians voice came loud. A few guards were on top of their horses, and some were in the carriage with the weapons. The carriage was in the back and Killian and Kai were leading all of them. Yes! The guards said in unison. Killian looked at Kai and waited. He was asking for permission to begin the voyage. Kai nodded back. The gates of the courtyard opened with a loud screech. The horses in the front began to gallop. They started to move slowly in the formation. Soon, they crossed the bridge and found themselves on the main road. Kais attention was taken by the people who walked out of their homes to look at what was happening. The loud noises of the horses must have made them walk out. Some had their mouths wide open as they looked around. Kai saw a woman showing the guards to her kid. The kids were amazed. Probably this was the first time the guards had gone on a voyage like this in quite some time. Kai looked around as they continued to gallop even faster after reaching the middle of the city. The aim was to get to the forest as soon as possible, and from there, they had to tread carefully. *** Kai and the rest of the guards went through the frosty, mud-covered roads. They had come far from the city and were now making their way to the Hagmons Keep. It was the village that Palman belonged to and was half a day away from the City of Veralt. The cold air hit his nostrils. He looked around. He could see the fields of harvests, which were now covered in snow. From here, they needed to take a pathway through a small hill which would trail down to the villages. Kai''s grip on the horse tightened as they moved up a hill. He signalled the horse from his leg to move forward. The horse obliged and galloped forward, passing a few guards who had started walking ahead. How far is it? Kai came next to Palman and asked. Uh A few more miles, Lord Arzan, Palman said. He coughed as the coldness hit his face. As he did so, the lines on his face stretched, showing signs of recovery from the mutation. We need to take a trail down from a crossroad and then, if we are lucky, we will be there in two hours. More often than not, a tree would fall on the road and the road can be tricky since it''s a dirt one, but we will only know once we get there. Sar?h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai nodded. Okay, go on ahead and help Killian with the directions. A few guards who were just ahead of them turned to look at Kai. Their expressions were weird and some even frowned at him. One of them hesitated a bit before opening his mouth, Lord Arzan, let me lead the way. I''m from Hagmons Keep too. That man is a cursed creature that would surely try to do something hideous. We shouldn''t trust him. His face turned into a scowl as he looked at Palman who lowered his head, not defending himself. Kai frowned, feeling like an internal conflict was going to occur sooner or later. Palman will be leading the way. If you want to go against my order, you are free to do so, he said, glaring at the guard who went pale. I apologise for my words, Lord Arzan, he lowered his head. Is there anyone else who wants to object? Kai asked and no one among them nodded. No one was crazy enough to go against his orders, especially when the word about him being a Mage had spread. They moved on ahead and Kai stood in the back as Killian and Palman led the way. They passed several areas and he kept a close eye on everything, taking in the trees and plants that grew in his territory. He recognised a few that might help out in his research and a few others that were toxic. In his past life, one of the magical arts he had taken was alchemy and thanks to that, he had good knowledge of plants. At least, the ones he would often use in his potions. After a few hours, they reached the crossroad that led to a trail down to the village. They decided to take a short break and Kai stretched his body, getting off the horse. Looking around, he saw guards sitting around in groups and talking. Killian seemed to be talking to Feroy about something and to his left, Palman sat alone. Deciding to talk to him, he walked towards him. How are you keeping up? He asked and Palman looked up, surprised to see him. I''m well, my lord. After you healed me, I have been getting back to my former self. I can''t be more About the other guards. He cut him off. How are you keeping up with them? They aren''t treating you well. Palman looked to be deliberating whether to talk about it or not before opening his mouth. Honestly, it''s been tough. I have lost trust with them and am still looked upon as a weaver. I don''t think it''s going to get better anytime soon, he said, sighing. I don''t blame them. I don''t know what happened when I turned into that mana weaver, but I know I lashed out at them. I tried to apologise to everyone, but they have not accepted it. You can win their trust back. I know you are not a weaver anymore, but these people would take time to warm up to you again. At that, Palman raised his heap, How can I win their trust back? By doing your job well. Be competent in it and show them that you aren''t a weaver. They would have to trust their back with you in the expedition whether they like it or not. A battle is a place where even two people who hate each other turn into friends. You can do it too. Palman nodded and thanked him. Kai had no idea if he understood what he meant to say. In the first place, he had very basic experience leading people. He had always been more of a loner in his previous life. At least until he had started going into old ruins, so this wasn''t as natural to him as being a Mage was. The small break soon ended and they started moving forward. The trail down was smoother than what he had expected as they reached the end of it, it turned into a path, which was way narrower than the trail and led to the main road going towards the village. It only allowed one horse at a time and Palman went first, followed by the others. As they entered the road, they were met with big trees. Some were dead in the coldness and the rest were barely hanging. The road seemed to have been cleared out by people who used it. They moved fast, one at a time, and finally, the narrow road came to an end. Kai could already see the village from afar, but suddenly, he squinted as he noticed something. Thickly laced smoke rose in the air and it seemed to be coming straight from the village. It was burning! Everyone, move quickly! Killian yelled loudly. Loud yellings and cries became more and more apparent as they got closer to Hagmons Keep. Kai used a spell for better vision as he got closer. [Hawk Eyes], he muttered under his breath and formed a spell structure around his eyes. It wasn''t a complicated one and the next second, his eyes shone. He wanted to preserve mana, but he needed to have a better look at the situation. Through his improved eyes, he saw diminutive creatures running towards the burning gates of the village. Barely two to four feet tall, the hunched creatures were making animalistic sounds as they rushed on to attack the wooden walls. Their shrill and guttural sounds pierced the air, louder than the cries of the villages. Kai immediately frowned. Goblins are attacking the village! Prepare for battle! *** Actra entered his room which was filled with all sorts of things. Covering a side of the room was a bookshelf. It was filled with several books related to magic, powers, the history of Mages, spells, and different forbidden ritual practices. In one corner of the room, a crystal ball radiated energy and he walked up to it and touched it before sitting on an adjacent desk. Finally, alone, he frowned and closed his eyes, thinking about the conversation he just had with Arzan and felt a headache brewing. Finally, he stood up and walked towards the closed windows. They were fogged with mist. He wiped the window and stared down. Arzan was making his way on top of a horse, looking determined. It was a completely different aura than what he was used to. Had he gotten confidence after awakening as a Mage? Maybe. His thoughts ran awry as he focused on them. Various possibilities ran through his mind. But none of them seemed to explain what had happened. He finally shook his head and went back to the desk. Grabbing the quill and the paper, he started to write a letter. 16. Dirty goblins Kais eyes were immediately drawn to how gruesome the goblins were. Their ears were pointed upwards in attention and their green skin was dirty. They wore rags and had small weapons in their hands, from short swords to clubs. He could also see a few with bows in the back. Ahhhhh! One goblin yelled, revealing its sharp, pointy teeth and shot a flaming arrow towards the gate. The rest of them followed its motion as more flaming arrows hit the village gate and wooden palisade, burning through them. As they moved closer, Killian and other guards were also able to see the goblins. There were over two dozen of them attacking the main gateway of Hagmons Keep. In response, arrows and rocks were aimed at the goblins by the villagers on the walls, but their aim was shaky, barely hitting two goblins. Kai doubted they had experience in battles. The wooden palisade would have kept out the occasional wolves and other monsters, but even the village guards were never prepared for a full-on battle. The less said about ordinary villagers, the better. This was strange and different. Another goblin aimed the fired-up arrow in the air. It hit a villager straight in the neck as he fell from the walls. People gasped around him as the goblins stabbed his body before shifting their focus to the other guards. A few of the villagers jumped out, trying to take the goblins head-on with swords and spears, but they were nothing in front of the hunched monsters. They were too swift for the villagers and soon, a few of them were dead or mutilated. Looking at that, the others ran left and right, trying to get away from the goblins. All in all, the battle seemed fairly one-sided. Despite having the terrain advantage, the villagers looked scared while the goblins attacked with fervor as they yelled in whatever language they spoke. The coldness didnt help anyone either. It only made the guards and the people weak. On the other hand, goblins seemed unaffected by the weather. Lord Arzan, we should go help them, a guard said from the sides. They were currently standing at a far distance with a perfect view of the ongoing battle. Kai shook his head. No, wait! He moved forward, squinting his eyes. The smoke from the flames hit his face due to the winds and he coughed before steadying himself. Looking at the village, his eyes searched for something. He saw corpses of humans, a few who looked like simple villagers, but he didn''t let it get to him as he walked to the side, trying to peek into the other side of the village. Finally, he saw what he was looking for. He turned around and waved his hand. The guards led by Killian immediately walked towards him. What is it, Lord Arzan? Killian quickly asked. You should all go from the front. Hurry and assist the villagers. The gate won''t stay for long. Killian and I We will go from the back. The goblin lord is attacking from the other side! Goblin lord? Yes, goblins won''t attack villages like these without someone leading them. I saw the silhouette of the lord on the other side. It was too big for me to miss. We can take it head-on. It''s a Grade 3 monster on the lower spectrum of it. Killian immediately nodded and looked back at the guards. Archers, assist from here and the rest, go help the village guards. Let''s kill some goblins. Killian ordered. The archers immediately picked up their bows and took out arrows from the back of the carriage. The others also grabbed their weapons and started moving towards the main gate. A few villagers up on the walls cheered seeing the guards coming up. Lets go, he said to Killian who followed him. They walked around the wooden fence. Getting closer and closer, Kai saw a few villagers escaping from the back entrance. They were running towards the forest area to hide and seemed to be injured with their arms bleeding. Both of them moved towards the back door and muffled cries caught Kais attention. They saw a gate torn away and splintered with the walls burnt. The goblins had gotten in and were now terrorizing the villagers. Earlier, he had seen a dozen trying to break through the main gate, and now, there were dozens here too. It was a small army in total. His eyes immediately went to a large goblin standing in the middle, speaking gibberish in an unrecognizable language. Kai had once thought of learning monster language, but it seemed like most monsters spoke differently, so he had given up. Still, he could make out the gibberish as something like Kill everyone. The lord goblins voice made the goblins halt in their actions. They all looked at their lord in unison and replied using the same language. In a matter of seconds, they pulled the sharp knives from their backs and started tearing everything apart. Some goblins attacked the houses, and the rest of them started attacking the people. A few armed villagers rushed towards the goblins and started fighting back. They held their shields in front as the goblins jumped at them. Kai took his attention away from them and looked at the towering figure. The snarling goblin lord was easily over six feet tall, being even taller than Kai. It was wearing a skull hat and a necklace crafted from bones. Some other accessories completed its look and its skin was lightish compared to the other goblins. Kai immediately saw the axe that was on its back. No blood dripped from it. It seemed like it didn''t do the work, but it was the one who was commanding the rest of the goblins. Lord Arzan, you help the villagers. I will take care of the lord, Killian said, his voice thick with determination. Kai simply nodded and walked from the sides to help the villagers who were attacking the goblins. He knew Killian could hold his own against the goblin lord. He was no Enforcer, but at least the knight didn''t seem like he missed training and was fairly competent. Even if the goblin lord overpowered him, Kai could simply rush back to his aid. Getting off the horse, he entered the village through the torn gate and immediately lifted his hand as he saw a bunch of goblins fighting villagers. A spell structure formed as he visualized it in his mind. For any spell, visualization was a key step, and although spell structures formed the basis of a spell, visualization, and chanting helped to push forth the intent of the caster, helping control the spell. [Fire Bolt]. As he pushed his mana, a bolt of fire immediately headed towards the goblins. It pierced one of them in the chest, instantly smoldering it as the goblin cried. The rest of the goblins turned around from the villagers and looked at him Sarch* The ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A few of them rushed at him and with flicks of his wrists, he cast small bolts of fire. It was a 1st circle spell, but was incredibly handy with the mana intake being fairly low, letting him cast a few of them at the same time. To stronger enemies, the bolts would hardly do any damage, but goblins were Grade 1 monsters that newbie Mages killed for practice. The bolts of fire hit the goblins. One of them dodged, but the others were incinerated on the spot. The one goblin that survived snarled at Kai before rushing at him with a knife. He waited until it was close enough before casting the spell again. He slid back as the knife barely missed his legs before the bolt of fire pierced through the goblin''s head. Blood spurted out and he frowned, looking at his robes which were now soiled. Still, it was no time to worry about these things as he turned his attention towards the villagers who stood, watching him with awe. Don''t just stand there. Kill the remaining goblins! he yelled at them and they nodded. Immediately, he started going after the rest of the goblins. All of them focused on him, knowing that he was their biggest threat. They snarled and rushed towards him, fighting like the mobs they were. His bolts of fire pierced through their chest with precision and those who survived were met with the spears and swords of the villagers who ran right after the spell and slit each goblin in their throats. The monsters weren''t able to fight back as the villagers were aided by Kai. Their numbers dwindled with each passing second and finally, there was none of them left. Go help the guards and other villagers at the main gate, he said once the last goblin had died. The villagers looked at him with awe and fear. One of them, with a stubble, hesitated before speaking, Shouldn''t we move to safety? Theres no safety in the village until the goblins are all dead, he said and looked at Killian with the corner of his eye. Go unless you want to help deal with the goblin lord. They were quick to run towards the main gate once he said that. With that done, he turned back. Killian was busy fighting the goblin lord right in front of the splintered gate. His attacks weren''t landing well, but traces of determination were on his face as he tried to stab the goblin lord with his sword. It didn''t work out as the goblin lord waved his axe in a diagonal line. Killian swiftly avoided the attack and rolled down on the ground. With his shield, he blocked the axe away from himself, but the goblin lord twisted up the shield with his axe threw the shield across the air, and attacked Killian again. Its axe slashed downwards and Killian slid back, barely dodging the attack, but the goblin lord came down again. With no shield to protect him, he could only scamper away from the axe of the goblin lord. Knowing that he needed to interfere, Kai pushed mana into another spell structure. The goblin lords yellow teeth gritted together, while it swung its weapon at Killian who jumped to the side. It clanked its axe against the metallic bar that held a part of the gate. It hit it once again, loudly, showing its anger as the gate fell. It was then that Killian noticed Kai who gestured to him to walk to the left, away from the range of his spell. As soon as he was at a safe distance, Kai put his mana into the already-prepared spell structure. [Cinder Circle]. He muttered and the next second, a flaming vortex rose from the ground, circling the goblin lord who cried as it felt the heat heading towards it. It tried to push them away with its axe, but they burned its hand. Although the goblins had tough skins to survive the cold, they weren''t much better against the heat. It could even be taken as a major weakness. [Cinder Circle] was not easy to cast, being a spell of the 2nd circle and it was a hard hit on his reserves, but it would help contain the goblin lord to one place and if it tried to get out, its whole body would be scorched. Now, it''s time to kill you, he muttered, conjuring up a few fire bolts around himself and aiming them at the goblin lord who screamed as the flames burned its rough skin. The bolts hit it right in its large body. Two of them were stopped by the large axe, but the other two hit him right in the chest, scorching it as the goblin screamed in agony. It fell on one knee and glared at Kai who prepared more bolts, using the last bit of his reserves to put an end to the goblin lord, but then suddenly the eyes of the monster flashed as it let out a visceral roar before its body shone with a green sheen. The muscles bulged and it suddenly looked even taller. Then, it rushed towards Kai, ignoring the flames burning his arms and legs, and swung his axe. Kai let out a yelp of surprise and jumped back, barely dodging the attack as it made a crack on the surface. He immediately attacked with one of the bolts, but the goblin lord blocked it with its axe. Kai dodged, but barely. He cursed his body which wasn''t made for combat and tried to hit it with his bolts. If he was right, it was a temporary state of power and the goblin lord would soon exhaust itself. Until then, he needed to survive. One of the bolts hit the goblin lord in the neck, and it screeched in pain. Taking the opportunity, Kai kicked it, but his kick had no power and he felt pain in his legs. Why didn''t you try to learn a thing or two about keeping your body in shape, Arzan? Why were you so stupid? He said in frustration and the goblin lord swung its axe. Too close to dodge, Kai tried to conjure up a spell, but a shield blocked the attack. He saw Killian right in front of him as he pushed back the goblin lord. Let me deal with this creature, Lord Arzan! He said and stabbed his sword at the goblin lord. Kai nodded, putting distance to get away from the goblin lord and sit down as Killian clashed against it. As he had thought before, the goblin lord got slower and slower as Killian fought it, injuries straining its body. Soon, Killian managed to stab its heart. The monster fell to the ground with a loud thud. Kai panted, feeling the energy draining from his body as he looked at the dead monster on the ground. He had almost exhausted his mana reserves with the dozens of fire bolts and other spells. He would need some time to regenerate his mana. If it wasn''t for Killian, he would have died. He sighed and Killians footsteps came from up ahead as he looked down at Kai. He was bleeding from his upper arm. Kais eyes lingered around the cut for a moment. The axe was sharp, eh? he asked and huffed. Killian nodded before his eyes shifted around him. Finally, he spoke. Lord Arzan, your powers are even better than the Mages at the towers back in the capital. He said while looking at Kai. I havent seen anyone cast spells so fast and efficiently. Kai simply nodded. The praise seemed genuine, but he wasn''t good with them. Your father will be proud when he sees you. Kai ignored that comment and stood back up. I don''t hear any noises. I think they managed to deal with the goblins at the main gate. Let''s go check. *** They moved towards the main gate and saw a large crowd gathered around a dozen bodies of dead goblins. The corpses were being carried away by the guards. Kai looked all around the village, taking in the sight. It seemed to be a small settlement with a population of over a hundred. He could see injured men and women all around. A few of them had burnt marks, others were simply stabbed by the goblins. All of his men seemed to have survived the ordeal despite a few of them having injuries. As he walked towards the villagers, he could hear whispers about him. It seemed like the guards had told everyone about him. Kai ordered them to help the villagers extinguish the flames and help out the injured villagers before he called upon the village chief. As it turned out, it was a fairly young man who seemed to be in his mid-20s with blonde hair and a dirty beard. Kai recalled seeing him trying to hit the goblins with arrows. An arrow had hit his arm and after it was bandaged, he walked up to Kai to talk to him. Thank you so much for saving us, the chief said. I didn''t expect Lord Arzan to come to our aid. Without your help, Hagmons Keep would have fallen to the goblins. The young man bowed towards him. What is your name? You are young, Kai asked. Im Alden, my Lord. I took over the village after my father, the previous chief, passed away, he said through a whimper. Kai nodded, looking around the village. His gaze lingered on the house, the people, then back to the palisade before he noticed Alden''s leg. It was bandaged, the same as his arm, but it looked old. Alden, there''s been more than just goblins that have been the problem, right? He asked. Some people have marks on their arms that don''t seem to have come from the goblins. You seem to be injured in your leg. And the gate on the other side, the goblin lord wouldn''t have been able to break through it if it wasn''t already damaged. Aldens eyebrows knitted together as he looked at him with sorrow in his eyes. He sighed. Yes, my lord. There had been countless attacks like this for a week. From wolves to other monsters like ash bears. His eyes lowered to look at his leg. Weve lost quite a few people. Me and a few others barely survived. We don''t know why it is happening, he said and frowned. It started a week ago? He tilted his head. Yes, I was about to send an envoy to the city to get help, when all of this happened and you got here, Alden said through muffled pain. He clutched the side of his ribs where he seemed to have gotten injured, but stood straight, staring at Kai. That''s weird, he remarked. It was strange for monsters to attack civilizations. They would never venture so far away from their homes and forests unless there was a reason for it. Maybe, some monster would attack a village from time to time, looking for human meat. But this was unnatural. Is there something unusual you noticed around the village? Maybe in the forest? Kai asked. The question made his eyes pop up and Arden nodded vigorously. Actually, there had been reports from the hunters that they had noticed strange activities in the western part of the forest. We also have had people disappearing around that area. Western part of the forest, Kai muttered, connecting the dots to the notions that Palman mentioned before. Mana fiends. Kai looked back and saw Palman helping a woman get to her feet. Her one hand was bleeding, and she had wrapped her unharmed hand around Palmans neck. As soon as she was on her feet, a few women walked forward, taking her from Palmans support. Palman! Kai called him. Palman immediately came running. Have you been to the west as well when you saw the Thornbuck? Palman thought for a second before nodding. Yes, my lord. Kai frowned. It seemed like they were on the right track to find the mana fiends. 17. Mana fiends (?) Kai looked at the village chief. Alden, how many people have disappeared? Aldens lips formed thin lines as he fell into deep thought. Kai could tell that he was counting, as his fingers started bending one by one on his side. Four, he said. Though we generally have disappearances, most of the time, we find bodies as some people get killed trying to hunt monsters. This time, we didn''t find bodies. What about the strange activities? Some hunters reported seeing unusual shadows in the forest. Also, we hear noises at random times like someone crying or screaming. They also reported a weird smell coming from the forest when they were there. We sent a few people to investigate, but they didn''t find anything and with the attacks, we are already short-handed. Alden explained and Kai guessed that the noises were coming from the humans captured by the fiends. Getting corrupted could be a painful process as some types of mana fiends tended to torture people while doing it. As for the smell, it might very well be from the mana fiends. L-Lord Arzan, may I speak? A quavery voice of a woman came from behind and interrupted them. Kai leaned to his left to see who was talking as Alden was obstructing his vision. As he did, he saw an old woman who used a stick to stand. Yes, go on, Kai said, walking past Alden and standing before her. My son is a hunter, Lord Arzan, she said, a bitter smile plastered on her face and her voice wavering. He just disappeared one day, and no one was able to find him. It''s been over a month and there''s not even a trace of him. She started sobbing as she spoke. The chief of the village stepped forward as he heard what she was saying. Her son was one of the four who disappeared. Some hunters tend to venture deep into the woods and often get killed. I fear that he met the same fate. Zanma was someone who liked to show off the bigger monsters he had managed to hunt, he went after them often, Alden said, looking at the woman and Kai. The woman scoffed. She rolled her eyes at Alden. Hes a skilled hunter, Lord Arzan, but not a fool who would lose his life. If you dont believe me, please, ask around. The chief is young and doesn''t know my son well enough. But my son wouldnt die like that! Her pain was clear from her reddened eyes as she spoke. Alden sighed loudly. I understand your grief, but sometimes the forest can be unforgiving. He might have met with an unfortunate fate We dont know anything for sure. The old lady shook her head, not believing a single word that came out of Alden. Her eyes pleaded to Kai. No! He''s experienced. He wouldn''t needlessly die out there. Something else is at play! Kai raised his hand at Alden making him pause without saying anything more. The woman clearly grieved for her son, Zanma and was in denial about his death. There might be a chance he was actually a good hunter and had just been unlucky enough to get captured by the mana fiends. Though, if he was, then, he might actually be better off dead. Do you know where he used to hunt? Kai questioned. Was it in the west? He used to go all over the forest and would have certainly hunted in those parts, Alden said. I can help you, Lord Arzan A man walked forward suddenly. He was one of the few who was listening to their conversation. He was a fairly tall man with long hair and a shaved face. Unlike the others, he seemed to have survived without hits from the goblins and looked in good shape. Im one of the hunters and used to go hunting with Zanma. He was a good friend of mine, the man said. I mean, he''s a good friend of mine. He corrected before the old woman could hiss at him. Kai nodded. Alright. What is your name? It''s Phillips, my lord. You will follow us to the western parts of the forest. Originally, I came to this village to investigate Vasper forest as I suspect there some foul creatures are hiding that might become a threat to the region, Kai declared, looking at the confusion on the faces of Alden and Phillips. Foul creatures? Phillips asked. Yes, I will explain on the road, he said before turning to the old woman. If your son is alive, we will find him. She nodded and muttered a small thank you to Kai and the rest of the guards. We can head out after helping out to organise things here, Killian said from behind. Kai agreed and watched the guards gather to help out the villagers. He however needed to rest to recover his mana. Although he made mana pretty fast for being in the 1st circle, he still wanted to be refreshed before they made their way towards the forest. The acrid scent of burnt wood hung in the air as Kai sat back down in the corner and started breathing in and out. As he focused on his breathing, he heard footsteps all around him as guards and villagers scampered around to fix the mess created by the goblins. If he was at the 2nd circle, he might just be able to deal with the goblins far more quickly and even help around the repair with a few spells, but right now, he needed to conserve his mana. After an hour or two, he opened his eyes and they scanned towards the rest of the village. The boundaries of the village were marked by a palisade, and beyond that, there were the dried leaves, and twisted branches that marked the entrance of the forest. Lord Arzan, Killian walked up to him, breaking his thoughts. Yes? All set? Kai asked back. The knight nodded. They both looked back to see the villagers who seemed to be resting and were discussing what had happened a while ago. They were all in little groups in front of the few destroyed houses. Fortunately, most of the houses in the village were saved and the ones who had burnt could easily be repaired. Beyond that, the palisade would need more time to repair, especially the gate at the back that had only a few parts remaining with most of the wood either being burnt or smashed in. Yes, I think we should leave a few guards behind. Just in case they need help, Killian said and looked at the villagers once again. He nodded. Leave three men here and tell the villagers to prioritise fixing the gates. We will come through here anyway. Killian nodded and walked back to let the guards know about their plans. Kai stood up, stretching his body and feeling his Mana Heart being half full. That would do for now and he could charge it more on the way. *** The sound of footsteps echoed through the silent, dense forest. It was filled with trees all around. The tall, half-dead trees covered the view of the sky. Apart from the tallest trunks, throughout the road they walked, they were met with other plants that were facing symptoms of wilting because of the harsh winter. The dried leaves made rustling noises due to the cold wind that passed them. Kai inhaled deeply. The earthly scent of the forest filled his lungs. He was walking in front of the group. They left the horses back in the village as the western area where Zanma used to hunt was only an hour away. With him, Phillips walked along with Killian right behind them. The rest of the guards walked in a formation with Feroy and Palman leading the rearguard. How many times have you hunted in this area? Kai asked, looking at Phillips. He wanted to know more details about Zanma and the area around them. Twice a month with him, Lord Arzan. I had a hunting group with locations mapped out for easy prey, but Zanma was more unruly, trying to cover every part of the forest. I would join him to look for some larger monsters whose coats might fetch a good price. What type of monsters live around here? The guy paused for a moment before responding. The area is dense with monsters, to be honest. Not every monster is willing to go to the dungeon to hibernate in the winter. Some of these are very territorial, Lord Arzan. From grey wolves to trolls, I have seen a lot of them. Goblins too, but I think the ones who attacked the village were the small clan of them that lived around here. They never stepped out of the forest before, right? Kai asked. Not that I recall. Weve been trying to trace the monsters, because we thought it would be a big one pushing them back to the village, but found little to nothing. Kai fell into thought. It certainly seemed like something was pushing them out, but if they had found nothing, then that just raised more questions. He had a few hypotheses, but nothing concrete that fit the situation. If mana fiends are involved, then it''s strange that monsters are running towards villages. They normally won''t act like this. He thought, his facial muscles straining. Could it be mana fiends? Killians curiosity-filled voice came from behind. He had been listening to the conversation and seemed to have attached the problem with mana fiends. Kai wanted to say yes to the question, but after listening to everything, he sensed that something was wrong. Mana fiends were known to capture territories owned by others, but they would hardly let monsters leave. Usually, they would corrupt and integrate them. Sear?h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Especially if the monster was a goblin lord who would easily be a strong fiend. At worst, they would kill them, but a whole clan of goblins and other monsters running away from them didn''t make sense. Kai shrugged. It can be. Let''s keep moving for now. His answer was curt and Killian didn''t seem to have any follow-up questions. As they walked, Phillips deemed it to be the right moment to ask more questions. Who or what are mana fiends? he asked. Mana fiends are creatures that possess corrupted or dead mana. They are pretty powerful and often corrupt areas or people. When they corrupt a monster, theyd turn into mana fiends, just like the rest of them. You know human fiends as mana weavers. There are other variations, but I won''t go there. Just understand, they are more dangerous than normal monsters you would come across, Kai explained. Phillips nodded. They sound like shit creatures to come across, he whispered to himself. Kai huffed hearing that. Keep an eye out. We are in the deeper parts of the forest now, Killian said aloud for the guards in the back to hear. They continued to move forward on the game trail. Time passed like that as they moved and Kai kept an eye out for signs of corruption. Normally, mana fiends would affect the surroundings a lot, but he didn''t see any obvious signs of corruption. The ground and trees looked devoid of any and the ambient mana in the air was clean. We are in the area where I used to hunt with Zanma, the hunter said while gesturing to the road. Just beyond these thickets, theres a clearing. It leads straight to the streams and a network of caves straight from it. Used to be my second favourite hunting spot. Kai nodded. Caves, you say? Any particular reason that your hunts led you both there? Aye, the caves were a haven for elusive prey, and the streams teemed with life. Perfect for a skilled hunter to wait around. We''d track game through the clearing and follow the natural pathways to those caves before hunting them down. Kai looked around the place. Compared to the opening of the forest which had more grass, this area was dense. He stopped in his tracks to inspect it. The rest of the group stopped after him and continued to stay silent without asking questions. Kai walked around the place. His fingertips touched the trunks of the cold trees. Nothing. He bent down and checked for any subtle hint of corruption. Nothing. Can you guys check for signs of corruption? Mostly they appear as blackened spots on trees, grass and even earth. Also, keep a lookout for any strange sounds or smells. The group nodded and started searching for any sign of corruption. Kai followed them along and reached a bit farther from where they were. The stream is ahead, right? Kai asked loudly. The hunter bobbed his head up and down in agreement. Did you all find anything? He asked. Nothing, Lord Arzan. We found nothing! One of the guards said, his voice thick with disappointment. Killian also shook his head. Let me check something then, Kai said and started moving forward. As he did, the guards followed him. He soon halted as he heard the sound of water before moving again. As he moved ahead, the sound got closer and closer. Kai jogged down the path to finally reach the stream. It was a wide stream that seemed to be used as a water source by the village. Bending down, he looked at it carefully. The water was pristine and seemed to be running as usual. There were no signs of any corruption around the stream too. He stepped forward carefully, avoiding slipping on mud by the stream and took a sip from it. As soon as he was hit with the taste of the water, his face scrunched up. It can''t be What- what is it, Lord Arzan? Killians worried voice distracted Kai. He turned around to see Killian frowning deeply. The rest of the guards were standing behind him. The water is normal, Kai said, calming the guards down. Why are you acting like that then? We thought something was off. Kai scoffed. Something is off. Mana fiends would often pollute water. Its not very natural to see theres pure water. It should have been filled with pollutants, but as you see, that''s not the case. He couldnt understand what was going on. If mana fiends were around here, then things didn''t fit with their natural habits. It was already odd that they had let monsters get away from them and only pushed them away from their homes. With the stream being clean, it posed additional questions. Does that mean there could be something more Kais eyes flickered in between his thoughts as he saw something shining. It was a quick twinkle of something, but he couldnt exactly pinpoint what it was. His eyes squinted as he tried to take a better look at it. It was on the other side of the stream, in between the bushes. Guards! Killian! There is some Before Kai could finish his sentence properly, something from the bush popped up. Argh! It was a skeleton. A white fleshless skeleton with fire casting from its eye sockets. The skeleton lunged forward, in a swift motion across the stream at once. Kai quickly looked at the weapon in its hand and frowned. 18. Dealing with White Stuff As it lunged forward, Kai instinctively took a few steps behind. He could hear the guards gasping behind him. The skeleton landed on its bony feet and looked in between the guards and Kai. Its eye sockets glowed as fire erupted out of them. Kais eyes raked down to its body. It was nothing but bones, seemingly a low-grade undead. With its jagged teeth, it grinned. A twisted smirk contorted its features. Stay back, Kai ordered. The skeleton seemed to analyse the people for a few seconds. What is it- Before Killian could question, it lunged forward, Its bony hand whipping forward. Kai dodged it and rolled on the ground. He got to his feet immediately and stood next to the skeleton. That''s a skeleton! Lord Arzan, are you okay? The guards shouted out, their voices filled with shock, but he ignored them for the time being. It looked at Kai and let out a harsh, low, guttural sound out of its teeth. Whatever it yelled, sounded as if a bone was scraping against a stone. It raised its hand and formed a fist. Kai noticed a few patterns pulsating with crimson light across its limbs and ribs. Those were seals given by a human to it. It wasn''t a skeleton borne from a dungeon or something natural. Kai prepared himself while looking at Killian, signalling him to be on guard. The skeleton lunged forward once again. Its hands were in the air as it tried to get a hold of Kai. Kai bent his upper body and turned to his sides, making the skeletal figure pass him, but he slammed his hands into its shoulder, and it stumbled off balance. It was strong and swift, immediately bolting upright. Whoever had made it had been careful to make sure it could hold its ground in a fight. Without wasting another second, with a flick of his wrist, he summoned the winds, whispering a quick incantation under his breath. [Rise Gales]. But the skeleton, fueled by unearthly speed, deftly dodged the onslaught of wind, moving with an uncanny swiftness that belied its skeletal form. The skeleton once again made the same scratchy noise through its gritted teeth. The glare of fire in its eyes grew. Umph! Before Kai could think, the skeletal monster tried to grab him by his hand. Its bony fingers tightly wrapped around Kai as he tried to break free and prepare another spell. His eyes, focused on the monster in front of him, shifted to the guards. They were preparing themselves to attack the monster from behind. Don''t let the bastard touch the lord! Attack him! Killian yelled approaching it from behind. He swung the sword in an arc, trying to hit the skeleton and break its neck into two. As soon as the sword hit its neck, the bones broke and a gap appeared in between its neck, but the next second, it started to heal. Killians eyes widened. Kai was not surprised as he already sensed the types of enchantments on it. Despite being a Grade 1 undead, the enchantments were helping it stand it''s ground. Whoever brought life to the skeleton must have been a skilled Mage with mastery over undead enchantments and the way they worked. The skeletons scratchy voice once again echoed through the silent forest like nails scratching on a chalkboard. The only other noises were of Kai who took heaving breaths, cursing his body for the nth time. It turned around immediately and looked at Killian to attack it. Kai took that moment to cast a spell. He drew the spell structure in his mind and started pushing mana from his Mana Heart. It was a 2nd circle called [Heat Wave] and took more concentration to use, but if he was right, it would be enough to deal with the skeleton. As he prepared the spell, Killian actively dodged each strike the skeleton threw at him. The other guards surrounded him, not moving in case they got in his way. [Astrum Veil]. Kai said the incantation aloud of the spell. The mana rushed from his body and sent a wave of heated air towards the monster. It hit him and immediately burst the insides of the bones. In the next second, they broke into hundreds of pieces and flew in the air. It almost looked like a firecracker from afar. Ahh! Its hollow voice filled the air as the bones fell to the ground. Killian and other guards gaped at the charred bones on the ground, some crackling and dropping into the stream, mixing with the water and burying deep inside. The guards stepped on them to make sure it was dead. Are you okay? Killian asked. Im okay, he stated. He took a few steps back to take deep breaths. The spell had taken more energy than he initially assumed. Just to make sure the skeleton died, he had used more mana than normally be required. His eyes returned to the damp soil near the stream. He walked closer and picked one of the bones that were everywhere. As he took it to his hand, he saw the glimmer of crimson energy dying slowly. It turned back to a pure white piece of bone. Kai squinted his eyes at it. When the mana died immediately, he noticed the distinct pattern the skeleton carried and the enchantments it had received. The seals seemed to be used to enchant the skeleton''s speed and defence, a basic work done well. He sighed and crushed the bone, seeing it crumble into pieces in his hand and being swept away, joining the wind that came from the upstream. It blew away, nothing but dust in the stream. He looked back at the guards who had their eyebrows furrowed. A few seemed to be craning their necks to look for any other skeleton that might be in the vicinity, and Killian seemed like he wanted to ask something, but was waiting for him to talk first. I was wrong, Kai said, biting his lips. His assessment of the mana fiends throughout the venture had been as wrong as it could get. He had jumped onto the dead mana and the weaver situation, thinking it could only be mana fiends, but those were not the only beings using dead mana. The guards frowned as he continued. We are dealing with a worse target than mana fiends. Going by the skeleton''s power we are not going to have it easy. A band of skeletons, my lord? Killian asked, looking down at a piece of bone by his foot. Not just that. What is it then? he asked. Its a necromancer. That skeletal assailant was covered in enchantments to empower it. A normal skeleton soldier wouldn''t be able to move like that. Kai frowned. Necromancy. He''d read up a lot on it. It wasn''t just another art of magic; it was a forbidden one which was as bad as selling one''s soul to the devil if not worse. He''d always steered away from it. Each skeleton, each animated husk raised by a necromancer, carried within it not just death, but dead mana. It was a forbidden art, not just because raising undead was seen as a major taboo, but also because it used dead mana and could slowly corrupt the necromancer''s body, making them inhuman. Though, most necromancers he had read about knew the side effects and readily accepted it in exchange for a chance to get power and a chance of immortality. If he was right, there would be a few lich lords that would be born around this era. This also explained why monsters had simply gone towards the village instead of turning into mana fiends. They were running away from the skeletons and the necromancer. If he was right, the necromancer they were dealing with used human skeletons that were mostly easier to raise as undead. It wasn''t to say monsters couldn''t be used, but raising them as undead was a hard task. Only the most skilled necromancers would be able to achieve that and there were only a few like those in the history of the world. Normally necromancers are much worse to handle. Im not sure how big of an army the one we are dealing with has. It can be ten or a hundred, Kai said as he looked at the guards with a serious expression on his face. His eyes were stern, thinking of strategies moving forward. Should we retreat? This is getting too dangerous. If it''s a hundred, we won''t be able to fight, Killian asked, his eyes roaming around the forest and looking back at the guards. Kai shook his head. No, we can''t afford to retreat now. If we leave the necromancer unchecked, his power will only grow. Eventually, it will become a threat too great for the kingdom to handle alone. There was more than one instance of a necromancer taking on a kingdom. Strangely, a lot of them only choose the part because of revenge either against another Mage or nobility. So, should we keep up on it? Killian asked, looking back at the guards who seemed a bit nervous now. Lets move ahead, but if it''s more than what we can handle, we will retreat. Kai ordered, thinking that it was the best strategy they could opt for now. They started moving ahead. This time, the sensitivity to the surroundings heightened as they walked. Kai was careful with every step, and he saw the rest of them following his actions. Their eyes raked through every visible corner of the forest. Now, where were the damn skeletons hiding? *** Killian watched Lord Arzan attentively. He couldnt help but observe his steps as he took the lead. He hadn''t seen Lord Arzan move out of his room much, not back at the Duke''s house and not when he had gotten the title of a Baron. But now, things had changed quickly. He internally frowned as he remembered how this all happened within a matter of a few days. Even right before when he was fighting the skeletal necromancer, the way he moved seemed to be with practice and was tactical. He noticed several times that Lord Arzan always took a step back to analyse the opposing enemy and then would lunge forward with calculated moves forward. By experience, Killian knew that someone with no prior battlefield experience or experience couldnt do that with so much ease. But how? How could Lord Arzan learn all of it in no time? He did mention once that he read and learned a few tactics from the books, but it just couldnt be all. Books wouldnt teach this much. They just wouldnt. I feel something incoming, be prepared, Lord Arzan said, his shushed voice filling the air. The guards looked at each other, but Killians eyes shifted from Arzan to focus on the surroundings. His eyes looked from one tree body to another. He scrunched his nose up as he tried to smell a similar scent that came from the skeletal body before dead mana. It smelled like a rotten egg mixed with a corpse. But he didnt get anything. As the only sound he could hear was of the moving footsteps of his guards and Arzans he was certain that there was no one. He said, But theres nothing- A skeleton jumped from the trees to their left. Its scratchy voice filled the air. This time, it bore a dagger. The dagger wasnt a usual one, but one filled with some sort of energy erupting from it. The dark aura-filled dagger swung in the air, aiming for a guard. Killian lunged forward and deflected it with his sword. A loud clang resounded and he heard Lord Arzan yell a spell. A gust of wind hit the skeletal monster, making it stumble on its feet. Theres more, Killian! Arzans voice came in a hurry. "They look to be Grade 2 undead, Skeleton Warriors." Killian looked back instinctively. Three more skeletal figures surrounded them the next second. They had similar daggers on them and looked as threatening as one another. The guards moved to take their formations to intercept them, already on guard against them while Lord Arzan faced one himself. The skeleton in front of Arzan thrust forward. Killian swiftly moved from his position to protect Arzan. He barely deflected the blow, the clang of steel on bone sending shivers down his spine. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The skeleton didnt even flinch at Killians move. It tried to attack further with its dagger, taking steps forward, one after another. The dagger drew along Killians sword. With that, the rest of the skeletal figures started to attack. Steel swords started clashing against the bones. The skeletons were quick to hurt a few guards. Killian took a few steps forward and swished with his blade, making it lean back and started aiming for its neck. The skeleton fought back with its dagger. He gritted his teeth. Each parry, each riposte was fueled with fear gnawing at the edges of his mind. From the corner of his eyes, he saw Arzan casting spells to protect the guards. For that brief moment, the skeleton drew the dagger across Killians forearm. He hissed in pain. Argh! Killian ignored the pain and charged forward. His sword made contact with its head first, landing a fast and hard blow. Then with its gut, and finally its knees. It fell to the flow, one leg bent. Killian took the moment to lash at it with rage as he started attacking with his sword left and right. A few bones cracked, but it was still standing, the bones healing at a swift pace. Lord Arzan! Killian asked for help, knowing only he could destroy the skeleton in one blow. He heard Arzan casting the same spell he did for the previous skeleton. Soon, the wave of fire hit the skeleton, making it fall to the floor, and cracking its bones loudly. Killian physically felt the wave of heat that Arzan sent through. His eyes lingered at the broken bones for a second, before seeing how the rest of the guards were struggling. Although Lord Arzan was quick with his spells, he was not able to manage all three skeletons alone. Killian quickened his feet and started bolting forward, hitting skeletons one after another and protecting the guards. He heard bones cracking under his sword and his movements encouraged the rest of the guards. Duck! Killian yelled at a guard who was struggling against a skeleton. The guard ducked immediately and the skeleton looked up ahead, distracted. Killian jumped forward, lunging at it and bringing the weight of his sword down. As soon as his blow hit its shoulder, it stumbled a few steps behind. Killian took this moment to grab the dagger from its hand and threw it away. He attacked its shoulder area and swiftly bent to attack its knees. As expected, without the dagger, the skeleton was useless, vulnerable to his attacks. With nothing holding back, he thought no more. He started to attack the same monster, over and over. Finding any bony structure and tearing them to pieces of dust that blended with the air. Soon, the skull fell on the floor. Killian panted for a second as a satisfied feeling filled his heart. But his attention was soon distracted by a loud cry that came from a guard. He turned around to see a guard lying on the floor, bleeding heavily from his rib cage area. On top of the guard, the skeletal figure was dragging his fingers on top of him. Scratching the sides of his face first, and then going lower. Killian moved to intercept, but a wave of shimmering energy hit the skeleton, wrapping the attacking skeleton in its crimson sheen. The skeletal figure froze. Next second, another gust of wind hit its neck, removing its head from the body. The undead fell on the floor as Killian rushed to the guard, seeing blood all around him. Turning him, he saw that the other guards had taken care of the rest of the skeletons. A few people looked injured, but they were still standing. Except one. Lord Arzan, he said, looking at Arzan who for the first time in a month looked lost for words as he stared down at the heavily bleeding guard who seemed to be taking his last few breaths. 19. Heavy heart Do you have any health potions? Kai asked. No, we don''t. Kai crouched on his knees. In front of him, the deeply wounded guard remained unconscious with his head dangling from the side as he kept it on his lap. He tried to concentrate on the mana that swirled inside his body. Healing a deeply wounded person was one of the hardest things for any Mages, especially a 1st circle one. Kai wasn''t even proficient in many healing spells, but he knew he had to try. He inhaled. Keeping his hands on the wounded area, where a lot of blood was coming out, he started pushing his mana out. It was a 2nd circle spell which would hopefully close the wound, but as soon as he started to build the spell structure, he felt the guard''s limbs go cold underneath his touch. He immediately stopped the spell and started to see if the guard was breathing. Earlier, he had been twitching from time to time, fighting for his life. Now, he laid still. No movement. Kai frowned. A hint of guilt clouded his mind immediately. From the corner of his eyes, he saw Killian crouching down to sit. He is dead, he said aloud for Kai to hear. Kai simply nodded his head. His eyes were glued to the lifeless body of the man as something heavy washed over him. He knew what it was and he couldn''t run away from it. He wanted to shrug it off immediately, but he felt bad for what happened. It was more of a sense of responsibility that the man died under his watch. His death was on him. Earlier, he had seen death but hadn''t been responsible for any men. He had always treated it as the consequence of people''s actions. It seems like being a lord has made it different. Lord Arzan, do you need a minute or should we head back? I initially assumed they were Grade 1 monsters, but they are stronger. At Grade 2 at least, Killian said cautiously. Kai looked at him. Although Killian felt bad about the situation, there was no sense of remorse in his eyes. He must have seen countless guards dying back in the duchy. Kai shook his head for what he said. No, we cant go back now, Kai said. There was no point in going back. Deaths would come, but they had to deal with the necromancer first. Are you sure, Lord Arzan? Killians eyes bore into Kais back. Sarch* The ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Yes, we will scout out the extent of the army we are dealing with. If it''s more than what we can handle, we are going to go back and seal the forest area. Ask help from neighbouring territories, he said, looking back at him. He stood up from his crouched position and looked at the other guards. A few of them had minor injuries, but it was nothing big. They took a break for half an hour, and the guards dragged the body of the dead guard into the grass and marked the location. On the way back, they could pick the body up and give it a proper burial. With that done, they decided to walk again. Lets move ahead! Killian commanded the rest of the guards who were quick to get into formations. Kai started walking ahead, but his thoughts were still clouded by what happened just a while back. He didnt know why he felt so responsible for the guards death. In his past life, he had seen a lot of deaths, but he hardly felt responsible for any of it, aside from his masters and only a few less than a handful. But now, the guilt he felt for a random guard almost ate him up inside. He didn''t even know his name properly, but a part of him ached, thinking about how his family and friends were going to react to the news of his death. Lord Arzan, you tried your best to save him. Killian walked from the side and got closer to Kai. He must have noticed that Kai was in deep thought. Kais frown eased as he heard Killians voice. I know, we did what we could. The rest of the guards should take care of themselves. The fight ahead won''t be easy. Let''s focus ahead, Kai sternly said and continued walking. Killian simply gave a nod. Although Kai was still not over the guilt, he shook his head. Being the lord, he needed to act calm and look out for any more skeletons that might be hiding in the trees. The trees covered with a slight mist of snow started to increase in number as they walked further inside. It was a sign that they were going deeper into the forest. The trees that were only on the sides were now in the middle of their path. It was obvious that rarely people came to this side of the forest. Normally, the fear of monsters would not let them approach. It also seemed like the necromancer had used a place deeper into the forest for that reason. As they walked, Kai suddenly noticed something strange. His vision was getting cloudy and there seemed to be fog all around the troupe. He hadn''t noticed it before, but it appeared out of nowhere and surrounded them. Looking back, he couldn''t see the location where they had come from and he could only see a small range. Even that was diminishing. Kai stopped and made Killian halt in his steps. Stop everyone! Killian shouted out. Kai looked around. What is this fog, Lord Arzan? It seems to be a spell, Kai inhaled the mana surrounding them. It was not the usual kind of fog that could cover a forest. It was afternoon and fog wouldn''t be present at this point anyway. What? Yes, someone is trying to disrupt our vision to separate us It seems the necromancer knows that were coming, Kai whispered in the last part. With the thickness of the fog expanding, Kai no longer could see anyone else. Not even Killian who was right next to him. He quickly started creating a thread of mana. He formed a simple spell structure in his hand and cast it. Immediately, the cantrip spell bound them to each other with small gaps in between, almost like a rope that they had to hold. It kept them in a formation as Kai started moving forward. Dont lose the rope. If you get lost, I''m pretty sure skeletons will be waiting for you all. The necromancer knows we are coming, he said out loud. A few guards gulped, but they held onto the rope. As he took a few steps forward, he noticed some dark spots around them. He halted them in their footsteps and bent down to take a good look at the plants. The trees that had wrinkled leaves due to the weather were slowly turning black. He extended his palm and grabbed a handful of soil. From how it felt against his hand and the sensation it gave, he knew it was corrupted. To confirm his assumption, he brought it up to his nose and inhaled deeply. He wrinkled his nose. The use of dead mana was affecting the surroundings. The necromancer is close, Kai said and started walking in the front. The fog continued to grow thicker. The surroundings were too silent for Kais liking, but it only made him sure that they were getting closer. Soon enough, the fog started to fade away. A clearing opened up in front of them and all of them stepped into it. It was a completely different area from the dense forest with tall grass all around them. There it is, Phillips said while staring at the system of caves. The mouth of the openings of the cave yawned open like a gaping maw. The walls were rocky but were rough from all the weather differences it bore for ages. The hunters voice was barely audible, as they all stared at what was beyond the cave. Through the cave system, it led to a hillwhere there were hundreds of skeletons standing. From the way they had come from, they wouldn''t be noticed right away. A guard gasped at the sight and the others took a step back. Kai shook his head and kept his finger on his lips, letting the guards know that they shouldnt make noises. He pointed his finger at the skeletons. The guards briefly nodded. The skeletons weren''t aware of them yet. He observed the skeletal figures. There were a lot of them, more than 50. The hill was a slanted mountainous area where the skeletons were just standing in line. He saw that they were bearing no weapons. A few of them bore seals and were enchanted, but most of them didn''t. The majority of the skeletons looked to be Grade 1, with a few Grade 2. They could take a chance against them. If he was right, the necromancer was strong, but it wasn''t one that he wouldn''t be able to handle. Although he could be wrong, the enchantments and fog from before meant that it was someone who was versed in support spells and arts rather than pure offensive ones. Kai was going to give a brief to his guards before moving tactfully, but suddenly, a noise occurred. He turned to look at a guard who had stepped on a dried stem, making the skeletons turn towards them. It happened instantly as all the eyes bore on them. Fuck! Prepare yourself! Kai yelled and looked at the guards who took a few steps behind. Kais attention went back to the skeletons. The hill was quite far away, but he heard how their skeletal teeth moved. The skeleton that was at the front end of the hill roared and started running down. It was followed by a few other skeletons who slid down the hill without a care of getting hurt. Kai saw how a few of them went back for something. And during the interval of the first few skeletons sliding down, the rest of them started following them with weapons in their hands. His heart sank like a stone as he saw the skeletons running towards them and sliding the rocky hill down with ease. He wasn''t worried about the normal skeletons in the front, but the ones in the back were skeleton warriors, Grade 2 undead equipped with weapons. It was going to be a pain to deal with all of them. Within seconds, a few skeletons lunged forward. They were weaponless and, therefore held their hands high in the air, jumping to attack. Defend yourself! Killian yelled loudly and started rushing forward. Get into formations! His sword was met with the bony hands of the skeleton as he put all his strength into the spear, pushing the skeleton away from him. He succeeded as the skeleton stumbled a few steps back and then hit it with the slanted side. Kai scanned the rest of the field. Their manpower was far less compared to the army of skeletons who continued to charge at them. Kai looked back and forth between the skeletons, trying to make patterns of their attacks. If they were similar to the previous skeletons, then he knew what he could do. As a skeletal figure sprung forward, Kai drew a structure in his hand and cast a [Fire Bolt] spell towards it. It was an easy spell but strong enough to strike through the skeletons bones, just like the goblins before. The crimson energy pierced through as its bones splattered. A few skulls turned to look at what happened. One skeleton made a scratchy noise and extended its bony hand towards Kai. Kai didnt understand the noises they made, but he simply assumed it was something like Don''t let him move!. He quickly cast a [Blinding] spell, as the spell structure lit up with mana, making the skeletons who ran towards him take a step back in agony. With limited mana and the number of skeletons, there were only a few ways he could take on the battle. So, he simply decided to stay back and help out the guards from the back. It was the best strategy since he didn''t have enough mana to take on all the skeletons. He started throwing [Fire Bolt] at every skeleton that got close to him or any guards that seemed to be in trouble. The tall grass around the battlefield gave him an idea as he chanted an incantation. [Astrum Langotra]! It was a two-word incantation for a 2nd circle spell called [Circle of Flames]. A roaring fire crackled out of his palms as the spell structure sprung to life. A searing tail of flames surrounded the skeletons that were trying to gang up on the guards and the tall grass around the clearing simply helped spread it. Get back from the flames! Killian yelled as the guards backed up. The sounds of skeletons crying out occurred as the flames engulfed them. The guards smiled in delight, but the next second, Kai felt the grass rustle in front of him. One of the skeletons sprung forward with a massive axe dangling in the air. Kai rolled on the ground and looked up at him to the flaming eyes staring at him with rage. It charged up ahead, but Kai rolled before hitting it with a fire bolt. It stumbled back and it gave the opportunity to Feroy to charge at it with a spear, taking it head-on. Kai nodded at him before pushing bolts of fire one after another at every skeleton that came across him. A lot of times, he made sure the guards had ample time to attack since unlike Killian, they were rather weak and susceptible to the skeleton warriors'' attack. The battle continued like that. The area was wide enough for Kai to move a lot and he kept jumping around, hitting the skeletons with bolts as Killian and Feroy handled the frontlines. Even Palman defended with Phillips and a few others, taking on a bunch of skeleton warriors. Soon, their numbers dwindled as the skeleton warriors fell and the normal ones never stood a chance. They took a few hits too as a few guards got injured, but they kept on fighting. Kai had no time to worry about the injured on the battlefield and he kept on firing his spells, controlling his flames to dictate the battlefield. When the last few skeletons were left, Kai looked around and frowned. The battle was going on nicely, but there were no signs of the necromancer. Just as he was thinking where it could be, a loud shout echoed from the caves. Is that- Kai paused his words as a skeleton dashed forward from inside of it, heading straight towards Killian who was busy in a skirmish with a sword in its hands. 20. Swirling Mists Killian moved forward and swung his sword to the left, hitting the skull of a skeleton and slamming it down on the ground. His eyes shifted over to where the noise came from momentarily. "Watch out!" Kai shouted from behind Killian. Another skeleton emerged from the caves and sprung forward attacking Killian. Argh! Killian cried out as the skeleton brutally attacked. He barely managed to block its sword with his own. The skeleton''s hollow voice came out as it tried to overpower Killian, but he held his ground. Unlike the rest of the skeletons, its eyes shone brightly and it had seals around its back and arms. It slid back before attacking Killian in a wide arc. Killian immediately dodged by rolling on the ground, hitting its leg. Both kept at it as Killian used his strength to defend against the powered-up skeleton. Lord Arzan, I will handle it. You go and help the others, Killian shouted out as he hit the skeleton''s skull with the back of his sword, making it stumble back. Okay! Knowing that Killian could handle the skeleton, Kai shifted his attention to find the necromancer''s location. His eyes wandered around the cave openings. He knew it must be hiding in one, but where? Before he could pinpoint it, a guard cried out from behind him. He turned around to see the figures of the skeletons hovering over a single guard. The skeletons wielded flails in their hands. Quickly, he drew a structure to do a [Gust] spell. A rush of wind blew from both of his hands and hit the skeletons in a wide arc. A few of them flew into the air, hitting wilted tree trunks. He finished the rest off with fiery bolts as the flames engulfed them. The skeletons let a hollow moan in pain, before falling on the ground. He felt a wave of exhaustion hit him since he didn''t have that large pool of mana to keep draining, but, he ignored it, knowing the battle was far from over. Lord Arzan, t-thank you! His attention was pulled back due to a guard who looked like he had already given up on surviving as he bowed. Kai nodded back and focused on his surroundings. Another loud shout came from one of the caves. This time, it sounded clearer and louder. Kai prepared for yet another skeleton to pop out. His eyes squinted as he tried to look inside the dark caves. But he could only see thick blackness. The next second, something emerged. It wasn''t a skeleton like Kai had initially assumed. Lord Arzan, that''s Killian said after sundering down the skull of an empowered skeleton that he had been fighting. His eyes were glued to the figure that emerged out of the caves. Kai couldn''t reply as his eyes were fixed on the same figure. Tendrils of smoke curled around a man''s silhouette. His face was obscured by the hood of the cloak, therefore it was hard to make out his features. Yet, Kai could see hints of pale skin and sunken eyes gleaming faintly at him. The air thickened with a smella peculiar blend of ancient soil, decay and corpses, like the musty odour of long-forgotten tombs mixed with freshly turned soil. In his hand, he held a staff made of wood. Dark, wild energy was radiating from it as he started walking forward. With each step, the staff tapped against the ground. He stopped halfway and stood to look at the remaining skeletal soldiers who were fighting with the guards. The dark energy started swirling around the staff as he continued to say inaudible things. The energy in their hands continued to grow as their aura started emanating visibly. The mana around him moved towards the skeletons as the glistening flames in their eyes grew. Kai realised what was happening. The necromancer was casting a spell to power up the remaining skeletons. The skeletons who had been struggling with the guards suddenly gained strength and moved with fervour. Theyre moving faster! Palman yelled with a rising tone of panic in his voice, while fighting against a skeletal warrior. He was gripping the sword with both of his hands, trying to hit the skeleton who swiftly dodged every strike. It swung its axe in the air and hit his sword with a loud metallic noise. Palman stumbled back as his sword fell on the ground. Effortlessly, the skeleton started taking steps towards him, hoping to finish him off. Palman rolled on the ground and dodged a hit before moving towards his sword, but he wasn''t fast enough. Another attack came his way, making him stumble back as the axe dug into the ground. Kais eyebrows raised in alert, watching all that. The quick rush of adrenaline that coursed through his veins quickened his pace, propelling him forward on his feet. He ran towards Palman, picked up the sword that was on the floor and went behind the skeleton, attacking it on its lower back. In a split second, he hit the same spot once more. The skeleton turned back. The fire in its eyes crackled, this time, Kai could swear he felt the heat that came from them. Palman, move back! He said as the skeleton moved its axe to strike his neck. Sliding back to dodge the attack, he cast a [Fire Bolt]. A bolt of fire emerged out of his palms, attempting to pierce through the skeletal figure. It hit its upper shoulder and left a darkened mark there, but the skeleton kept standing, grinning at Kai. He frowned. A simple bolt of fire couldnt kill the skeleton like he was able to before. The seals on its back shone with a glint as it moved to swing the axe. He took a few steps back and started drawing the structure of a 2nd circle spell called [Inferno]. He knew the power-up the skeleton had received was temporary, but he needed to finish it soon. The spell would take twice the mana he needed to cast a bolt of fire, but he had to try. As soon as the last lines of the structure were completed, he pushed mana and cast the spell. [Astrum Inferno!] With the incantation, he extended his palm towards the skeleton who looked up in surprise as a medium-sized ball of inferno pierced through the air and hit its skull with a loud noise. The skeleton used its axe to block it, but it charred the bones as the skeleton cried out. Kai saw the skeleton bursting into flames as soon as the inferno hit it. The flames spread to the grass around it as the whole area began to burn. Without a pause, he lifted his hand again and cast the same spell, hitting two other skeletons who were squaring off with a few guards. They both got hit by the flames and ended up dead. Or whatever was possible for an undead. There are only a few skeletons left! Stall for time and wait for them to make a mistake. Follow Killian''s lead! He shouted out as a skeletal figure fell on his feet. The skull was disconnected from its body as it struggled to stand up. Its bony hands continued to hit on the hardened floor. He looked back and saw Killian fighting the skeletal figures. It was he who had sent a skeleton flying through the air without its skull in contact. Kai thought and looked at him. Killian could manage without him for a while, Kai decided. He threw a bolt of fire at the skeleton struggling in front of his feet, ending it. Foolish child, The necromancers cackle echoed from an unseen corner. It was not standing in front of the caves anymore. You shouldn''t have walked here to disturb me. Kai looked everywhere for the location of the voice before he turned towards his right and saw the necromancer standing with his staff. He could properly see the necromancer now. The necromancers eyes flickered at Kai and he grinned mockingly. Then, he took a step towards Kai. His lips broadened, smiling for an unknown reason. You are going to die here! the necromancer yelled as Kai launched a [Fire Bolt] up at him. A transparent shield blocked the spell and two skeletons moved to intercept Kai. He dodged an axe cleaving through the air and kicked the skeleton''s leg before using another bolt at it. It hit it right in the face, taking its skull. The second one moved with a sword, but Kai was already used to their movements. A few more bolts were enough for it too. Once they were done, he looked up at the necromancer who clicked his tongue. Kai charged towards it, preparing another spell, but the necromancer tapped his staff against the ground and Kai was brought to a dead stop. A grim mist immediately swirled in the surrounding area. It was the same spell the necromancer had used to disrupt them when they had been moving to the caves. The mist clawed at Kais vision, swallowing the battlefield as a whole. A subtle panic filled his chest, but he quelled it. He couldnt see or hear anything, so he stayed still on his feet. It seemed like a 2nd circle spell going by the effectiveness by which the necromancer had cast it, and the strength he had displayed till now. Blindness. Deafness. Kai was in the middle of them. He could sense movements around him, and his instincts said that the necromancer could attack from anywhere. From his right, a fist of nothingness came intact with his face as he stumbled back. Another punch came from the opposite side, but he bent down, avoiding the attack. When Im done with you, you will be a good slave. I do not doubt that your strength will be put to good use! With each word, the necromancer somehow managed to throw a blow in his way. Kai ducked all those blows, but a few still managed to hit as he tried his best to find out where the necromancer was. The necromancer using his fists was strange, but it confirmed a few things for him. Either he didn''t have a lot of mana left or he didn''t know enough offensive spells. Either way, it was a bad situation for Kai. With the mist around, the amount of spells that might work was low and he had maybe enough mana for one spell. Two, if he pushed out every little bit of it. Still, he had to figure out a spell that might work in this situation. Thinking through the vast arrays of spells he had collected over decades, he decided on one that might truly help him out A measly 1st circle spell. He immediately pushed the last bits of mana from his heart to form a spell structure. Each line was developed hastily as he looked around for the necromancer to attack again. The eerie fog continued to swirl around him, as he felt the movements of necromancers behind him and barely dodged a punch. Kai formed another line on his spell structure as he rolled on the ground, slowly powering it up in his hands. What was left for him to do was to cast the spell before another punch hit him. [Vethra Luminas] He muttered the incantation as his hands shone, powering up the spell with words of power as something moved behind him. He turned back just in time and felt a punch right in his face, but managed to touch the necromancer''s hand before he faded away in the mist. Kai scrunched his back as his legs shook from the mana drain he was feeling, but he managed to stand as a smile formed on his lips. He took a breath and looked at the mist around it. Before, he sensed nothing, but now he felt something moving in the back of his mind. His mark was working as expected and the necromancer seemed to be moving towards him to strike at him again. Kai blinked his eyes and prepared for him to appear right in front of him and looked towards his left just as the necromancer prepared to punch him. He dodged the punch swiftly this time and kicked at the necromancer who stumbled on the ground. The next second, Kai grunted as he punched him again, pushing him down to the ground. The necromancers'' magic faltered as the spell structure holding the mist together broke. A shriek, raw and primal ripped through the silence as a dark aura surrounded the necromancer suddenly, making Kai take a step back. In front of his eyes, he saw the necromancer shift his flesh as his skin blackened and his eyes bulged. Part of his face seemed to resemble an undead suddenly, closely resembling the weaver. Kai realised it was transforming into one of the first stages of being a lich and his mind turned to think of a way to stop it. Deciding, that there was only one way, he inhaled and cast a strike of wind, taking mana out from his life force to power up the spell structure. [Wind Spear]! Kais hand flew in the air, aiming at the morphing creature. The wind shaped like a spear flew in the air. Sharp and straight, it headed for the necromancer, cutting his head off the body from the neck. The visceral cries stopped immediately. Kai took a moment to see that the creature the necromancer had morphed into actually died. didnt move an inch, therefore he took a sigh of relief before looking around. The skeletons were all dead and the guards and Killian were looking at him. They had taken care of them, but he could see a lot of dead bodies on the ground. Kai sighed before he sprawled on the floor, exhausted and out of mana. *** The guards bodies lay on the ground lifelessly. Kais frown deepened as he continued to look at the dried blood on the grass. It had been three hours since the fight ended and he had barely kept himself going. He felt a weight on his shoulders and his mana was just enough for him to not pass out. If he could, he wanted nothing more than to rest, but there were more important matters to deal with. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. What are we going to do with them? Killian asked, looking at the corpses. We will take them to the city and give them a proper funeral. We cant just leave them here, he said and looked at Killian. Killian nodded, gritting his teeth and looking back to the caves. We haven''t found anyone who disappeared around these parts. We have checked the surroundings and only the caves are left, he said, his eyes shifting back to Kai. They are probably there since the necromancer was using it as a dwelling. Lets head inside then. - read chapters ahead: patreon/extra26 21. Necromancer dwelling The caves yawned open before the group. There were only half of them left after all the battles they fought since coming from the city. A few of them were left outside to rest and tend to their wounds while three guards, including Feroy and the hunter Phillips, followed Kai and Killian. Standing before the cave, Kai looked at the darkness that escaped from it. It seemed to swallow all the light from outside. Giving a nod to the others, he took the lead and walked cautiously. Right when they stepped inside the cave, their footsteps echoed softly against the cold stone floor. The dim light that came from the opening of the cave cast shadows on the cave walls. They walked inside, slowly but steadily. Its so dark, we cant see anything beyond this point, one of the guards said. Take out the torches, Killian ordered and one of the guards held a torch in his hand and passed it to him. As soon as the area lit up, they were met with skeleton remains of what looked like rabbits. Kai guessed the necromancer might have killed them to eat. The empty sockets of the rabbits caught his eye, seeming to stare accusingly at the intruders. Killian grimaced seeing the skeletons. His grip tightened on the hilt of his sword. Looks like our necromancer friend had a taste for rabbit stew, he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. Kai nodded in agreement and ignored the remains. He started moving forward. The torchlight showed the narrow passages before them. The cave seemed like it had been used frequently. The smell it was extremely similar to what the necromancer smelled like. Clotted blood, and a mix of wet mud. As they ventured forward, the cave seemed empty. Apart from a few animal bones here and there, the rest was vacant. The further ahead they moved, the air seemed to get chilly. Kai continued to move the torch and check if there were any signs of the lost people. Or other belongings. He found nothing. Finally, they reached the end of the cavern, only to find a dead end. It was a small room with a mat laid out on the side that the necromancer must have used to sleep. There were a few boxes around and a table. He could also see cauldrons and pots that he might have used to make food and potions. Opening up the boxes, the guards found nothing other than a few books and there were no signs of any prisoners. Kai furrowed his brow in frustration. His mind raced as his eyes raked around, taking note of every corner of the cave. There must be something were missing, he murmured. His voice tinged with uncertainty. Do you think he killed off the prisoners and made them undead? Killian asked, looking through the books the guards had taken out. Maybe, but we can''t be sure. We should still find their clothes or any belongings if he killed and made them undead, he said, feeling like he was missing something. Phillips, how big are the caves? I have never stepped foot inside, so it''s hard to say, but they are long and interconnected with each other. The hunters that have entered here said there are several rooms inside where bears and other monsters used to live. The necromancer probably killed them off or they left for the dungeon during winter. He nodded, taking another look at the walls and deciding to check more. Turning to the guards, Kai issued a command. Search the area, he instructed, his tone firm and authoritative. Look for any signs of a hidden passage or a concealed doorway. There has to be a way forward. The guards immediately went searching, searching the walls and the floor. Their hands placed on the solid rock, each pressing the cave harder trying to find something. Both Kai and Killian started searching the surroundings themselves, looking over the boxes and under the mat. Finding nothing, his fingers started tracing the wall, attempting to scour every inch for any indication of a secret entrance. Minutes stretched like that and suddenly, Feroy groaned. I think I feel something, he said, taking everyone''s attention. There''s a crack on the wall here! Turning to look at him, Kai saw his hands pressed on the wall on the side. He had his eyes squinted, trying to look at the other side. Looking closely, Feroy discovered a small indentation, similar to the rest of the wall and the shimmer was visible. He pressed his hand on it. With a low rumble, the wall slid aside, revealing a passage that had remained hidden from the view. Wow! Feroy gulped, looking back to the rest. Kai patted his shoulders, Good job. He looked back and others and gestured to them to follow him before taking the lead, using the torch to make sure there weren''t any traps around. The rest of them silently followed Kai. The whole passage seemed to lead to another small room and it didn''t take them a long time to get to the end of it. Unlike the last room, this one was spacious and had torches put on the walls. As they entered, they saw people inside the room. Their footsteps seemed to make them aware and noticing that it wasn''t the necromancer, a few of them groaned. Please save u-us! one of them said aloud. It was an old woman whose voice was weary and shaky. The sight sent a shiver down Kais spine. There were at least six people in the room who were tied with metallic, rusted chains around their bodies. Dont get closer to them yet, Kai ordered, looking at the guards. Phillips. Phillips walked forward from behind and looked at the small group of people. Do you recognize your friend here? he asked, still eyeing the people who had bruises on their faces and were squirming for someone to save them. Phillips eyed the prisoners before his eyes widened. Zanma! There he is, Lord Arzan These four are from our village too, he said, pointing to four more people. They were the ones who were reported as missing, and for the others I dont know, I have no idea. Philip pointed at a few people in the back before his eyes stared back at Zanma who was lying on the floor. Kai nodded. He took a good look at the son of the old woman from the village. He crouched, eyeing him carefully. Kai noticed how the skin on his face was peeling. Apart from it, parts of his face were blackening, and so was his neck. It resembled a fading injury, but he was corrupted. The people who sat behind Zanma started to break into sobs as they saw the guards, probably thinking that help was finally here. He gave a quick over and saw similar injuries on their faces. Thank you, one of them said, tears welling up in his eyes. Kai just nodded and inspected them. This time, the corruption was different. It wasnt similar to Palman who had come in contact with dead mana and turned into a weaver. The signs were completely different and he had seen it before. Their skin was peeling and cracking from the corruption that the necromancer had inserted in them. He had been giving them small dosages and probably trying to see how they react to it without letting it turn them into weavers. He looked in between the individuals. They were all the same. The smell of dead mana in the air proved his point. He could still heal them if he regained his mana, but they were going to suffer from after-effects for a long time. T-there Zanma said and twisted his head to look behind. Kai looked where he pointed and saw people sprawled on the floor. A guard walked to take a look and turned to face him with a frown. They are dead, he said. Take a look around and help free the ones that are still alive, he ordered. The smell was getting stronger with every breath he took and he didn''t want to stay in the room for long. Will they be able to heal? Killian asked, looking at Zanma. I will be able to help them once I recover my mana, Kai said and stood up. Just hold on for a little longer. He stared at the old woman. The guards worked to break the chains. They were just metallic chains and were easy to break with a sword. Once they were free, all of them thanked Kai and the guards. Take them outside. The guards obeyed his commands and started carrying the people one after another outside. Kai took one last look around the room and halted as he saw a woman who was on the floor, lying. He first thought she was dead too, but her hands were twitching and she was reacting to the noises the guards were making. He bent on one knee and looked at her. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. There were bruises on her arms and she seemed to have been badly beaten. Her skin was pale, but it was not peeling like the others. There were no traces of dead mana on her face and neck. There were darkened areas on the faces of other people which showed corruption, though in this woman, the only signs were bruises. She just seemed to be not cared for and malnourished. Kai took a good look at her appearance. Her hair was white, but she didn''t seem older than 20. She was extremely thin and was wearing a cloth that barely covered her and through her fluttering eyes, he saw a golden iris that he had never seen before. Around her eyes, eye bags were prominent. She was partially conscious, shaking. Her lips were crusty due to the lack of water given to her. If she was in the same room as the rest of them, for weeks or even more? How come she showed not even a single strand of corruption? Kais eyebrows knitted and lips pursed. Even if she avoided the corruption somehow, why hadnt the necromancer experimented on her? Phillip, come here, Kai said loudly. His voice echoed through the walls. Soon, the man came running. He was helping the guards to carry the people outside. Few could walk even with their limp form while others needed to be carried on a stretcher. Do you know her? Kai asked. Phillip shook his head immediately. Ive never seen her around the village. Kais frown deepened. Are you sure? Yes, Lord Arzan. I grew up in the village, and the community is tight. So, she is not from our village or the neighbouring ones. If she was, I would know since white hair isn''t common around these parts. he said. Okay, hand me the water, Kai motioned to the small bag of belongings Phillips had. Kai retrieved the flask of water, its contents sloshing softly within. Gently, he lifted the woman''s head, carefully tilting the flask to allow a trickle of water to flow into her parched lips. She stirred slightly, the cool liquid pouring from the sides of her lips. Her eyes fluttered more. She finally looked at Kai clearly and opened her mouth to say something. Nothing came out. Its okay, drink this, Kai said and poured some more. The woman slowly sipped from the flask. Once satisfied that she had enough to drink, Kai looked at Phillips. "Help me," he instructed. Together, they lifted the woman''s limp form, cradling her gently in their arms. As she was unconscious, they had to carry her outside. *** As soon as they stepped outside into the forest, they were hit with the chilly wind. Kai had ordered them to move out after making sure that there was no one left behind in the cave. It wouldnt have been safe for them to stay inside the cave, even though the necromancer wasnt alive anymore. Theyd also made sure to take all the belongings from the necromancer and carry them with them. It was already night and he didn''t want to stay around the caves. Although they might be able to camp, he wanted the prisoners to get good rest. So, after a brief talk, theyd decided to head back. Since it wasn''t possible to carry all the dead bodies back with them, hed laid them on the ground and ordered Killian to bring them back with the carriage tomorrow. Now, with the prisoners, they started to walk back. Kai''s eyes roamed around the forest, taking in the evening beauty of the forest. He and Killian walked in the front alongside Phillips who led them all. The guards were in the back with the prisoners who were barely keeping up with them, but unlike before, they had hope in their eyes that they would be fine. A few of the guards limped due to injuries in their legs and due to that, the hike went on at a slower pace. Also, Lord Arzan, Killian whispered as they left the premises of the clearing. When we reach back, Ill see if the necromancer had any bounties on him. Since he had such a strong army, he must have a presence elsewhere too. Kai nodded once again. Yeah, you might be right. Let me know whatever it is that you find. The silence approached them as they continued to walk through the trees. The moon was already up in the night sky and everyone kept an eye around for any monsters that might be roaming. Kai continued to look around for the same before his eyes landed on something. Stop, everyone! Kais loud voice halted Killian on his feet. The guards followed his action and looked at Kai. Do you see those herbs? The ones with the four leaves and yellow stem? Pick as much as you can to take back, he said and pointed to the floor. The big trees were already withered due to the coldness, but on the floor, along with the herbs he showed, there were a few other plants that seemed to absorb all the nutrients on the ground and grow themselves despite the weather. Without wasting another second, the two guards immediately got to work. Uh, those seem pretty useless to me. Theyre everywhere, is it necessary? Killian asked, looking at Kai curiously. Yes, its necessary. Just do as I say, Kai said and looked at the guards. Killian didnt object to that, fully knowing that he always had his reasons to do something. After the battle with the necromancer and the goblins, he seemed to look at Kai with a different glint in his eyes. Soon, the guards cleared the herbs in the area and stuffed them up in their carriers. We should reach the village in an hour, Phillips said, keeping up the pace. All of them kept walking, taking short breaks from time to time to check up on the prisoners. They were exhausted from the battle, but with Hagmons Keep so close by, they managed to keep up. Finally, after hours, Killian saw light coming from a distance, I see the village! 22. A long walk The guards who were carrying the injured and corrupted villagers started to unload the weight off their arms and place the people on the floor as they arrived at the village. The guards were tired from the battle and although they could walk, they still needed rest to recover. The same was true for the prisoners who had limped their way back. Kai saw Phillips untangling his arm off Zanmas shoulders and looking at his face. He looked too thin and he doubted the necromancer was feeding them beyond the minimum amount to keep them alive. They needed to feed them first and Kai himself felt hungry. He turned back towards Killian, Killian, we need to talk to Alden for lodging ton Before Kai could finish talking, he heard footsteps and saw Zanma''s mother running towards them. She was closely followed by the rest of the village, including Alden and the guards he had left behind. They looked better now with bandages around their arms and legs. It seemed like someone had seen them coming from the palisade and informed them. Lord Arzan, are you okay? Alden asked, looking at the wounded guards before his eyes fell on the villagers who had disappeared. Their eyes widened in what Kai assumed to be shock. The old woman looked in between the injured people, searching and finally met with a familiar pair of eyes. Zanma! Her weary voice was loud enough to make Zanma look up. He was touching his leg where the chain was tightened before. Seeing her mother, he stood up and walked towards her. Ma, I thought I would never see you again, he said, breaking into a sob and pushing his hands on her shoulders. I knew you were alive! She hugged Zanma for over a minute and everyone gave them space. As soon as her hands broke free, she looked at him closely. Her eyes examined him from head to toe, trying to take every detail in. What did the monsters do to you? Your face She looked at the blackened spots and the marks that chains had left behind. Kai sighed seeing his mother trying to touch the peeled skin. Turning back towards Kai, she asked, Lord Arzan, what happened to him? Her voice layered thick with concern for her son. It was a necromancer we were going against. He mostly dealt with corrupted mana. I assume that he was trying to do experiments, and Zanma and the others were his victims. The loud cries you were all hearing were probably from them getting tortured. The woman frowned deeply. She closed her mouth, unable to express how bad she felt. Alden and the others were the same, looking horrified to find out that something like that was going on in the Vasper forest. While they were talking, a few others picked up the prisoners, being friends and family. No one came for the white-haired girl and she simply sat on the ground, exhausted. Lord Arzan, will he be o-okay? She asked, looking at him, her voice quivering. Kai nodded. Dont worry. I will be able to help him and the others soon. I just need some time to recover my mana The woman looked at Kai with reverence and held her son''s hands. He will be okay, she whispered. Please, do whatever you can. I''ll do anything to save him. I will be okay, mother. Dont worry. You should get some rest. I need some rest too, Zanma finally said. He looked at Kai and mouthed a thank you. Kai left the prisoners to talk to their families and turned towards Alden who seemed to be waiting for him to talk. Alden, for now, I need a favour. The captives need to be kept away from the villagers. The corruption could easily spread. Although it''s okay for a while, common people shouldn''t come in close contact with corruption for prolonged hours. The guards, including me, need to stay here for the night to recover too. We lost more than a few people and the battle wasn''t easy. Will it be arrangeable? he asked, looking at the village chief who was staring straight at him. Alden immediately nodded his head. Yes, I will make the arrangements. I can start to heal them tomorrow. Just make sure the guards and the prisoners get enough rest. Alden walked away to arrange the lodgings after that and Kai turned towards Killian. We can move the dead bodies tomorrow morning. For now, let''s rest. Yeah, the guards need it. He looked back at the guards who were talking among themselves. They seemed to be discussing the days events. After ten minutes, Alden returned. Lord Arzan, the place is ready, please come this way, he said and started leading the way. Everyone, well be staying here tonight! Theyve arranged a place for us! Lets get going, Killian shouted, gaining the attention of all the guards. The guards whom Kai had left in the village before started helping the captives and the injured guards to walk. A few villagers also helped them. Kai shifted his attention back to the village as they walked. He could see the village in a broken state, but the villagers had tried to put things back in place. The ruined roofs were put back together or replaced by makeshift ones. The corpses of the goblins were removed and the streets looked cleaned up. The lingering scent of burnt wood and flesh was still in the air, but it didn''t bother him anymore. The villagers worked hard to get things into place after you were gone, Alden said, noticing how Kai was observing the surroundings. Yeah, I hope the guards were of help. Also, we need food for the night, Alden. The captives didn''t look like they had a proper meal in weeks. The guards are hungry too, including me. Ill arrange that and send it to your room. Let me show you the place first, Alden said and walked down a small narrow street before they saw houses lined up. It used to be an inn, but it''s not been functional for a year. I talked to the owner and you can use it for as long as you like. They stopped in front of a stone house which was lit up with a fireplace from inside. It seemed big enough for all the guards and himself. Thank you, this would be enough. All of them made their way inside and a few guards sat down on the chairs laid out while the others walked towards the hearth. There are enough rooms for all of you. I have prepared one specifically for you and Knight Killian, Alden said before leading him towards the first floor. The rooms weren''t big, but the bed was good enough for him to rest without any back pain. Kai wasn''t one to complain about it since unlike the guards, he didn''t have to share his room with anyone. After thanking Alden and distributing the rooms among the guards, Kai decided to finally rest. He sighed and walked inside. The exhaustion from the day had finally caught up to him as he sprawled on the bed, wanting to sleep, but he knew he needed to work on restoring his mana and eat something before sleeping. Therefore, he sat in the corner area that had a window opened to let the ambient mana come into the room. Taking a breath, he crossed his legs and started focusing on restoring his body and replenishing his mana. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He inhaled the mana and moved it inside his Mana Heart in a circle before moving to every corner of his body. He felt a warm feeling as he continued to do so. With each breath, he felt the familiar surge of energy coursing through him, his muscles tightening as strength returned to his weary limbs. While circling his mana, the memories of the necromancer and the recent events flooded his mind. He closed his eyes to concentrate. The images of the necromancers sinister presence still danced behind his eyelids. Maybe it was because of how tired he was. Or maybe the events had gone to his subconscious mind he could still hear the necromancers voice. Kai let the feeling hang over him for quite some time. The only way to get over it was to go through it. He knew it by heart. His jaw tightened as he remembered how the guards had died. His hands formed into fists as the images of the battle passed through. In all honesty, the necromancer was weak and only knew how to raise the undead and hide behind his fog. He was clearly not experienced with battles and had even tried to go through a lich transformation which had been his last futile attempt. With better planning, fewer guards would have died and their deaths wouldn''t be on his conscience. He should have been more vigilant, and more prepared. He should have taken better measures. With the raging thoughts, he let the mana flow through him. Within minutes, he worked to heal the bruises on his face and regained enough mana to feel a bit better. He thought to himself and started meditating more. He couldnt feel the time pass as his focus intensified inside his body. Suddenly, a knock on the door disturbed him. He opened his eyes. Come in. The door opened and Killian walked in. After closing the door, he stared at him like he wanted to say something. Kai waited for him to talk and Killian finally asked, Lord Arzan, do you mind taking a walk? *** It was late at night and the guards seemed to be all in their room. A few were resting while others were mourning for their comrades'' death. It hadn''t been easy on them. Both Kai and Killian walked with a heavy silence in between them. The streets were empty and all the villagers were in their homes, probably discussing the things that had happened today. Killian''s voice broke the quietude, looking at him. Lord Arzan, I saw your expressions earlier when the battle ended. I believe you have things on your mind. I know it was your first battle, so if you have things to talk about, I would like to hear them. It was not his first battle, but Killian didn''t know that. Still, he had hit the mark with some of his words. "I can''t help but feel responsible for the deaths that happened on my watch," Kai confessed, his gaze fixed on the ground beneath his feet. "I should have been more vigilant, more prepared." He spoke his mind. Killian cast a sidelong glance at him. "Lord Arzan, you did everything you could," he reassured, his tone gentle but firm. "Your strength is commendable. It saved lives today, including mine." "But people still died," he murmured, a note of anguish creeping into his voice. Kai sighed, the burden of guilt still weighing heavily on his shoulders. He wasnt someone in his previous life who lingered over a few guards deaths. He had fought countless battles where a lot of lives were lost. This was different. He wondered if it was simply a part of Arzan who had stayed behind in the subconscious of his mind. Or he actually was becoming more of a lord. Killian spoke before another silence could linger, As I said, Lord Arzan You saved lives. For the people who died we cant bring them back. Every battle has casualties. He paused. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips. You know, knights have a saying, he continued. Every fallen comrade remains alive as long as their companions who survived carry on the fight in their name. Right now, you can only honour the dead, Lord Arzan. And be a respectful lord to us. Kais brows furrowed. He thought about his words and being a lord. Honouring the dead Being a respectful lord to them. He had taken it as a position of privilege which it was, but the responsibilities associated with it were heavy. Still, he knew he couldnt run away from them. Killian, thats a nice saying. Yeah. Ive had countless times when I had to remind myself that I should honour the dead instead of looming over their death. It saved me a lot of time, Killian said while looking at the dual moons that shone over. Both of them kept walking for a while longer, simply talking about the battle. Killian shared a few of his experiences with being a knight and although Kai took on the role of a listener, it helped distract him from the deaths of the guards. They only returned once Alden called them out for dinner. *** It was a few hours past morning breakfast. After getting his fill and a night''s rest, he felt much better and got to work. His mana was filled back, and he could finally help the captives with the corruption. Unlike the weaver, their bodies hadn''t mutated and it was going to be a simple process. One by one, he tended to the captives, his touch easing their pain and restoring their strength. He continued to send surges of mana through their veins, trying to destroy any sort of corruption inside. It was similar to the process he did with Palman. He worked slowly, healing the less corrupted first and making his way to the people who needed far more attention. He looked at the healing wounds of the old woman. Finally, when the skin started showing its natural colour, Kai asked, How are you feeling now? The latter looked at her hands, and then back at Kai. She moved her fingers, clenching and unclenching the fist. I feel much better now, t-thank you, she said and bowed. Kai smiled at the old woman whose lips quivered as she talked. It was going to take a while to get better, but she was already on her way to recovery. Its alright, Kai muttered and shifted his attention to everyone else. He slowly moved to heal others. Zanma took less time since other than the peeled skin and black spots, his body seemed more or less fine. That wasn''t the case with the others. They had spots all over their bodies and one of them had his whole arm corrupted. Kai did his best to give them some respite, but it was going to take time for them to recover. After ensuring that the captives were stable, Kai sought out the village chief who was talking with a few guards about the necromancer. Alden, Im taking the ones who need more extensive healing with me. Well continue their treatment in the city, Kai said, pointing to the house the captives were in. Are you taking all of them? He asked. No, two of them including Zanma are okay now. Just needs to rest for a month to return to his old self. He still might have trauma, but magic can''t do anything about it. The rest, I''m taking with me. Thank you for your help, Lord Arzan. Without you, the necromancer would have just grown in strength and devoured this village, Alden said and bowed in gratitude. When I first heard of the new lord of the territory, I didn''t know how it was going to be, but now, I believe prosperous days will be back. They talked a bit more and Kai asked more about the village and decided to let them take care of the goblin corpses. Although the common goblins were more or less useless, the goblin lord was a valuable monster whose parts could easily be sold. Hagmons Keep anyway needed money. Once everything was done, he walked up to the guards and Killian. They had worked all morning to retrieve the dead bodies and they would be carrying them back to the city to give them a proper funeral. What happened to the woman we found? The one who showed no corruption? Kai asked Killian as he got on his horse. Oh, her. She keeps falling into unconsciousness. Alden said they kept giving her water from time and time. But, she couldnt even open her eyes. I told the guards to get her in the carriage since she doesn''t seem to know anyone in the village. Good. I will talk to her once we reach home. He said, looking towards the hills and hoping the journey back home would be far less daunting. *** Kai and the rest of the troupe entered through the familiar gates of the city. Behind them, the bodies of the guards who were dead and the captives who needed more healing were in different carriages. One of them they had taken with them and the other they had found in Hagmons Keep. The streets were busy with the people who had come down from their houses to witness Kais return. They were in small groups as they started talking amongst themselves and looking at their carriages, trying to glimpse what they brought back. As they made their way through the streets, Kai leaned in closer to Killian, his voice just barely above a whisper. Send a guard and fetch clerics from the church. Killian knit his brows in confusion. Why do we need the cleric? he asked quietly. Kais gaze darkened and he sighed. I want to get the funeral started. It''s already been over a day since their death and it''s disrespectful to keep them waiting for longer. Inform their families and call the clerics. 23. Funeral services Gareths eyes loomed over his wife. She was hugging the rugs tightly to herself. She has been in much better shape since they received the Heat Stone. Not a single day passed by, when the couple didnt thank Lord Arzan for giving them the Heat stone. Although finding food has been difficult, having heat in the blizzarding weather made it easier for them to survive. Now, they stood in the middle of a line that led to an almsgiving. Similarly to Gareth and Cecilia, half of the town stood waiting patiently for their turn. The estate of Lord Arzan was giving out free bowls of food, made with different herbs. When the news had spread yesterday, not a lot of people had believed it. Gareth had heard the conversation that it was a rumour, and despite the Heat stones selling well, the estate was still in debt. Moreover, giving food to the whole town, even if it was just a simple bowl of soup, would cost a ton and no lord would empty their coffers like this. Despite the chatter, everyone had made their way to the town square early in the morning where guards and maids had arrived with bowls of what looked like hot, sizzling soup filled with herbs. I have never seen such a soup before. What do you think it is made of? he asked his wife, whose eyes loomed over a person''s bowl who was gulping it down on the side. It was an amber liquid, filled with leaves and giving off a sizzling aroma. I don''t know, but it smells so good, Cecilia frowned, but an instant smile appeared. Were getting closer. She said as only a few people were remaining in front of them. Gareth nodded. He looked over to see the guard handing the bowl to the person in the front. The person grabbed it with both hands and quickly started standing beside it to eat it while it was hot. Were next, Cecilia mumbled in excitement. Smoke came out of her lips for how long she had been standing there in the queue. Waiting for two more minutes, Gareth and Cecilia stepped forward and looked at the guard. Here you go, the guard said and handed them the bowl of soup. Enjoy your soup. Its called a Necra Soup, it helps to warm your body and is essential to survive the weather. We are working to get it ready for you all for a day, he said the last line aloud so the rest of the line could hear it. Cecilia muttered a quick thank you and stepped aside. Lets soon drink it before it gets cold, she started sipping on the soup. The flavours danced on their tongue as the steaming soup poured down. Cecilia glanced at Gareth. A puzzled expression creased her brow. I wonder where they got the ingredients to make the soup from. It''s very unique, but leaves a nice aftertaste. She said questioningly as she realised she had forgotten to ask the guard. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. We shouldnt bother with the questions, Cecilia. Drink it. Gareth shrugged as he looked at Cecilia. His voice came out hushed yet firm. *** Even though Cecilia let it be, curiosity gnawed at her. She continued to sip from the bowl, but her mind wandered trying to piece it together. Her eyes went back and forth between the carriage and the helpers who had come to serve. There were a few guards, but several women with maid uniforms. One of them was someone she had seen with Lord Arzan once in one of his weekly visits to the streets to distribute Heat stones. I wonder if Lord Arzan is going to continue the soup distribution like the Heat stones too. If he does, most of our problems will be solved, Cecilia said and looked at her husband. Gareth nodded. Hes really doing so much for us suddenly. If only the bandits run away from the mines, I will get my work back. He emptied the bowl and burped while looking around. It was still morning and it didn''t look like the line was going to end anytime soon. If they hadn''t been warned one person getting only one bowl of soup, would have made his way to the back again. His focus was distracted by the distant sound of solemn bells tolling in the distance. The funeral is starting, They heard a distant voice call out. The realisation dawned upon them simultaneously. Without exchanging a word, Cecilia finished her bowl and handed it over to Gareth, who walked back behind the carriage where they were collecting bowls. Lets go, Gareth walked back and told Cecilia. She nodded and both of them followed where droves of people were going. They were all headed towards a big ground in the city, where a large number of people who had finished their bowls had already gathered. Among the crowd, guards were standing in the front, keeping the public in check and making sure that all of them maintained peace. Everyone looked at the centre of the ground. Bodies lay beside rough-hewn graves. Their forms were hidden beneath simple clothes. Guards stood in front of them, all their faces etched with weariness. Beside the guards stood Lord Arzan. The guards were dripping sweat. They mustve dug the holes and laid the corpses. But even after the hefty work, they stood there seamlessly. Lord Arzan was talking to a few clerics from the Church of Lumaris, the Goddess of Light and Life. Their golden robes and symbolic accessories made them look distinct from the others and it seemed like they had already prepared for the funeral. They also saw Knight Killian and Administrator Francis standing in the back. While the knight was ordering the guards, Francis stood, watching over the processions. This is sad, Cecilia said in a muffle. Her hand covered her mouth as she stared at the crying families. They were all on the opposite side of the crowd. Their arms tangled with one another as they sobbed. They were the sons, daughters, and wives of the fallen guards. Once they had returned from the expedition the tales had spread everywhere because skeletons and a necromancer were involved. All the still functioning pubs and bars in the city were full of chatter about it. Especially about the funeral Lord Arzan was hosting for the fallen. I heard they fought bravely against the necromancer, a voice whispered close to them in the crowd. Yes, they are heroes. Their family didn''t deserve it, but they saved the city fighting with the lord. Gareth and Cecilia heard the voices of two people whispering behind them. The tone was tinged with both sorrow and reverence. Gareth looked at Cecilia. They passed unspoken words while shifting their attention back to the burial ground. *** Kai turned towards the sombre crowd, his gaze sweeping over the faces gathered before him. The guards, the people who had come to watch, and even the families who were crying uncontrollably. Taking a deep breath, he spoke. "People of our city," he began, his tone grave yet steady, "I stand before you today with a heavy heart, for we gather here to honour the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to us all." A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd, acknowledging the weight of his words. Kai made eye contact with a few people. "In our recent expedition," Kai continued, his voice unwavering, "we confronted a great evil a necromancer who threatened our very existence. Through courage and determination, we were able to vanquish this threat. But in doing so, we lost brave souls who fought by our side, who gave their lives so that others may live." A solemn silence fell over the gathering as Kai''s words sank in. Originally, he had thought to do a small funeral with the families involved, but he felt like the guards needed honour to their names and the legacy their families could be proud of. So, he decided to make the funeral a public event. Turning towards the families of the fallen, Kai''s expression softened with empathy. "To the families of the fallen," he said, his voice gentler now, "know that your loved ones will not be forgotten by me or my retainers. In recognition of their bravery and sacrifice, I announce that each family shall receive twenty-five gold coins as a token of our gratitude and respect." A soft murmur of appreciation rose from the crowd, mingling with the whispers. Some looked grateful, and some were still hovering from the shock of the amount. "And to any member of the fallen''s family," Kai continued his voice carrying with conviction, "know that the gates of the guard are open to you. Any who wish to serve our city in honour of your fallen kin shall be welcomed with open arms." With those words, Kai fell silent, allowing the weight of his announcement to settle over the gathering. Around him, the people nodded in agreement. The whispers of gratitude slowly turned to a chorus of cheers and applause. The sound echoed through the square. Kai wasnt big on speeches ever since he was a Mage. This time, something stung him personally. He knew the families deserved respect for those who died. Therefore, he tried his best to give something when he spoke. In hindsight, it was also a good event to show his face more to the common people, even through an occasion like this. In the middle of the cheering, a cleric stepped forward. He bowed his head. In a low voice, he murmured the last rites, praying for the dead and hoping for Lumaris to show them a path to the afterlife. The crowds cheer died down immediately, and the silence hung over them once more. Kais eyes wandered around to meet with the people of the city and onto the ground. The guards made sure that the burial was as respectful as it could be. As he observed the ritual, he realised the change in traditions here compared to his time. He had never heard of anyone burying the dead before because of incidents of necromancers raising the dead from graveyards. The tradition had become one of burning and letting the ashes fly into the air or collecting them to keep in a memorial. A part of him wanted to change it because he had just dealt with the necromancer, but he couldn''t be hasty. He had to make sure to not change things around, especially things that had personal values attached to them. As the cleric was done with the rites, the guards walked to the burial ground and let the families have their moment. Kai took a few steps behind, absorbing the situation. People passed by him in crowds, to respect the fallen and meet the family members. Lord Arzan did a great job with the burials, he heard a woman say from the crowd. The soup we received today I heard it''s his doing too. Finally, we received a ruler who cares about the people, the other voice came in a whisper. Similar whispers passed his ears as people bowed to him as he passed. Once they had given their respect to the fallen and talked to the families, the line dispersed. Killian ordered the guards to cover the burial grounds with soil. The guards nodded and started to work. Kai stood in the middle of the aftermath of the funeral, his gaze fixated on the graves that were being closed. From the corner of his eye, he saw Francis walking towards him. His eyebrows were furrowed as he stood next to Kai. Lord Arzan He offered a small nod of acknowledgement. This is all A great job that you did. Thank you, he said. Kai managed a faint smile. Yeah. It isnt about me, I believe the guards deserved it. It''s not easy for their family to lose them. So, it had to be done. Thats true, my lord. Francis shifted slightly, his tone grew serious. About what we talked about before, I did some digging, like you said, about that necromancer. Turns out he was a criminal. Wanted in a duchy on the other side of the kingdom. Kai''s eyebrows raised in surprise. "Is that so?" Francis leaned in, his voice lowered. What do you think we should do, Lord Arzan? Kai looked at Francis. "I say we send them a letter, informing them that we took care of their problem. Maybe even ask for some compensation. We could use it to help the families of the fallen guards and the people affected by all of this." Francis nodded in agreement. That sounds like quite the plan. Yes. Draft that letter immediately. Before they could delve further into their discussion, Francis hesitated for a moment before continuing, his eyes showed a sense of urgency. "Oh, and one more thing," Francis said, his voice still in a whisper. "The girl, the one who was injured during the expedition... She woke up." 24. An evening stroll As soon as he heard the news from Francis, he waited until the people in the crowd started to clatter. In the end, when most of them had headed home, and the only ones who were left were families, their friends and the guards, Kai decided to head back. He was curious about the girl. She was a strange one, unlike the rest they had rescued. When Kai first saw her, there had been no signs of dead mana on her body. Her skin wasnt peeled or damaged like the rest of them. She looked malnourished and not fed well. She probably was kept parched by how she painfully gulped the water when he poured it down her mouth. But still, she didnt look as bad as the others. If she was kept in the same room as the others for weeks, then it didn''t make sense for her not even to get a little affected. I believe our work here is done, why dont we go and meet the girl now? Kai told Francis who seemed to be lost in thought. He snapped out of his thoughts and nodded at Kai. They took the carriage and went to the castle. As Francis strolled down the hallway, he looked at Kai. She woke up an hour back and we gave her some food. She still looks shaky and uncomfortable, but hasn''t tried to escape. What''s her name? He asked as they stopped in front of the room she was kept in. I don''t know. She refused to say anything. With a swift motion, Kai swung open the door. However, the sight that greeted him was far from what he expected. There she was, the girl they had been seeking, caught red-handedor rather, bread-handed. Amid her feast, crumbs scattered like confetti around her, her cheeks puffed out with a mouthful of bread. Caught in the act, the girl froze, her eyes widening in embarrassment as she realised she had been caught devouring the bread. With a sudden cough, she choked on her mouthful, pieces of bread flying out, landing with a soft thud on the table before her. Kai couldn''t help but chuckle at the scene before him. "Well, I see you''ve made yourself at home," he remarked, unable to contain his grin as the girl blushed furiously, her embarrassment palpable in the air. Kai walked further in, his gaze upon the girl as he observed her appearance once again. Her hair was a striking shade of white and her pale face only added to it, making her look fragile. She was draped in a cloth that barely concealed her slender form. Her golden eyes glinted with a mixture of fear and confusion as Kais presence loomed over her. Underneath the stare she threw at him, the evidence of her exhaustion and distress was there. There were dark circles under her eyes and scars ran down her entire arm. Francis darted his eyes in between Kai and the woman and seemed like he wanted to say something. Kai swiftly lifted his hand and halted him. Francis, do you mind going outside? I want to talk to her alone. Yes, my lord, he said before leaving the room. Once alone, Kai turned back towards the girl and decided to take it slow. "Hello," he began softly, his voice a reassuring murmur in the room''s silence. My name is Arzan Kellius, I''m a Baron and lord of this city." Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Her eyes nervously darted around Kai. She refused to meet his gaze and only offered a curt nod for Kais introduction. He didn''t think too much about it and continued. Its alright, Kai said and stepped forward. Do you know where you are right now? he started with a simple question. The girl shook her head. From what he had gathered, it was likely that the necromancer captured the girl for far longer than the villagers. Her features were too foreign for the standard blonde hair and brown eyes around these parts. This is the city of Veralt. I rule and govern the city. It''s located in Lancephil Kingdom, he said and by the way, the girl looked at him, she didn''t seem to have any idea where it was. I want to ask a few questions from you if you don''t mind, but before that, can you tell me your name? She looked at him like she was contemplating it. A silence stretched over them before she slowly opened her mouth. I''m Amyra, she said, her accent a bit different than usual, but he was glad to know that she hadn''t lost her speech. She also seemed to understand and speak the common tongue. Kai decided to approach the topic cautiously, his voice steady but laced with concern. Amyra, I wanted to know more about the necromancer. Can you tell me?" The girl flinched at the mention of the necromancer, her eyes downcast as she whispered, "He... he hurt me." Her hands seemed to be shaking and he could clearly sense that whatever she had gone through with the necromancer, it had lasting impacts. "If you don''t want to talk about it, it''s okay. We''ll talk about it when you''re ready," Kai assured her. His eyes went to the scars that ran deep on her hands. She followed his gaze and hid the scars by hand. I will be able to help you with that, he said in a hushed tone. R-really? She asked, her golden eyes blinking at him. Yes, the scars on your hands. I might be able to heal them. Im a Mage, Kai said. He wanted to increase the familiarity between them, but not too much. Just enough for her to trust him. Do you want me to show you how? It won''t hurt. The woman looked up and stared at Kai for a moment. She was questioning his words and looked at him warily as she came to a decision. O-okay, she said and removed her hand from the scars. Kai placed his hand in the air, on top of hers. He didnt want to touch her knowing it might simply scare her. In his mind, he drew the spell structure on his palm and started pushing mana. Within a few minutes, the spell worked. The gentle glow that came from his hand covered Amyras and enveloped the wounds. Slowly, the reddened area turned to her normal skin colour. He let the wound heal a little bit more and withdrew his hand. I can go over each one of your scars like this. It might take a bit more time on other scars, but I would heal you completely, he said and stared at the healed area. I will just need to make frequent visits. Will that be fine with you? Kai asked. Although a Cleric might be able to deal with it too, he wanted to know more about her and the necromancer. And getting to know her during healing seemed like the best way. Y-yes, she mouthed, nodding her head after looking over at her healed sound. Amyra, you can finish your meal peacefully. I will head outside, he said and stood up. As she had just woken up, he didn''t want to ask any more questions and give her enough time to eat. Kai gave a slight nod and turned around to walk out of the room. Before he could completely walk, he heard a small whisper. Thank you. He left the room with a smile and met Francis outside who seemed to be waiting for him to come out. Is she alright, Lord Arzan? He asked. She''s scared and needs time to adjust. Send her food regularly and allow her to explore the estate. Think of her as a guest until I heal her. Understood. He nodded, mentally logging it as a task to tackle. His serious eyes said it all. They walked through the corridor as they discussed more things. Francis told him about the success of giving out soup and Kai was happy to know that it was working as expected. He hadn''t expected that recipes he had eaten during his days at the Sorcerer''s Tower would help them here. As farmlands were all filled with dead mana and grains were expensive, humans discovered ways to make food out of weeds and common herbs. It was nothing tasty but would fill you up before you knew it. Now, it was coming to the city''s rescue. "Francis, I need you to gather more herbs. I will give you a list of stuff that would be easier to find and recipes," Kai instructed. "We need to work on refining the recipes to feed the population." Francis nodded, "I''ll get right on it. Kai''s gaze softened as he continued, "And, also, I will focus on making more Heat stones. Distribute them to those who are struggling, especially those without jobs. Tell people to share them if necessary. We need to ensure everyone stays warm during these trying times." Francis nodded. Consider it done, Lord Arzan. *** In Arzans room Kai had gotten used to calling his own, he sat in the middle, right where the bloody ritual once was. His legs were crossed as he circled his mana in a circle, but today, he felt like he was unable to concentrate. It wasn''t anything bothering him, but his grasp on his meditation wasn''t as good. With a slow inhale, Kai opened his eyes, the remnants of his meditative state lingering in the quiet of the room. A restless energy stirred within him, urging him to action. Looking around, he realised it was late at night and didn''t feel like spending the rest few hours meditating before pushing himself to his bed. Without a second thought, Kai rose from his seated position. With a long stride, he crossed the room to the open window, the fresh breeze beckoning him outside. Kai looked down and summoned his magic, weaving it into one of the spells he had used quite a lot in his first test of being a Mage. He felt the familiar rush of power rushing through him as he leaned forward, ready to leap. It was an introductory spell known as [Feather Fall], commonly included in early Mage training. This was because many Mages attempted flight using wind elemental spells, often risking their lives. Therefore, [Feather Fall] was taught as a vital means of temporary survival. Without any hesitation, he controlled his leap and slid through the air effortlessly. The wind whipped past him, tousling his hair as he soared through the window. For a moment, Kai let himself relish the sensation of flight. The adrenaline felt good for the moment. Especially since he was sitting in the same position for quite a few hours, this seemed just about right. His flight got slower and slower as he got close to the ground. As he landed gracefully on the cobblestone streets below, Kai felt a surge of ecstasy. The spell had worked flawlessly, leaving him feeling alive. Kai thought to himself with a smile plastered on his face. Looking around to make sure he didn''t come across a patrolling guard, he strolled across the long garden, careful of any suspecting eyes before jumping out of the walls by using another one of his spells. He turned to the streets and continued to walk through the road he had noticed before. His destination was already decided, being an area around the grasslands. Killian had told him about it saying that a few monster tribes live there. It was a small talk when they stopped midway going to the funeral. His eyes were on the street as he walked through the crowd. He covered his head with the hood that was stitched to his cloak and lowered his gaze. His steps became a bit slower as he continued to walk. The pavement beneath his feet was worn and cracked. The snow was cleared to the sides of the roads, but he could see how someone could easily trip and fall if they didnt pay attention to the indents. As he moved, snippets of conversation spread around him, mingling with the sounds of the surroundings. People spoke in hushed tones. He stood to the side and kept an open ear to what they were talking about. "Did you know that it was Lord Arzan who distributed free food? I couldnt believe it at first, but then" "It is true. The Heat stone was also a big help. I had to pay 3 gold coins, but it was so worth it. They are distributed to the more helpless for free, but if you want it fast, you can pay for it. Talking about Lord Arzan, it seems a bit odd that he is suddenly doing all of this." An older woman chuckled. Who cares about whats odd or whats even? Were getting services the city has always needed. Its about time, and We should be grateful. I understand. The other woman said with a warm tone layered in her voice. Another smile plastered on Kais face as he turned back to walk in the opposite direction. He continued to walk straight. The air grew cooler, carrying a faint scent of pine and earth. After leaving the walls by climbing over them, he made his way to the grasslands until he sensed movement up ahead. Scaling over a tree, he saw silhouettes hiding around in a clearing. He looked down at the three monsters. Their thick, fur-covered bodies stood out against the backdrop of trees and tall grass. These trolls rarely ventured near the dungeon; their tough skin was perfect for the cold winters of the woods. Peering from his hiding spot, Kai watched as the trolls devoured a wolf they had caught. The scene was primal and chaotic, with grunts and snarls filling the air. Deciding it was time to test his skills, Kai jumped down from his perch. 25. Break the Trolls He landed on the ground with a big thump. The sound echoed through the dense forest, gaining the attention of the seven-foot monsters. With a flick of his wrist, he conjured up a [Fireball] spell and urged them to come at him. The dead wolf was thrown to the side instantly as the trolls focused on him, their red eyes glinting. Their roar reverberated through the forest as Kai took two steps forward and shifted the ball of fire from one hand to his other. His cloak billowed behind him as one of them lunged forward. It slashed its claws at him, and Kai bent down to dodge it. Sliding back to escape another attack, he aimed the fireball at the trolls head. It hit the monster on the head and groaned in pain as the attack left a mark. Being a 1st circle spell, it wasn''t enough to cause significant damage, but by how the troll looked at him, Kai knew it stung. As the monster stumbled back from his spell, the other two sent guttural growls. He barely had time to think before one troll lunged forward. Kai twisted at the last second and cast [Fire Bolt] with a flicker of his wrist. His fingertips threw a small, concentrated bolt that exploded when it hit the monster. The troll touched its left shoulder as the fire crackled, inflicting a burning sensation. Slight grey smoke came out from where it hit it. Kai didn''t have time to think too much as two trolls attacked at the same time. His feet were quick as he tried to dive back to avoid the lunges and slashes they threw his way. He weaved between their clumsy swings, finding pockets of spaces where their bulks couldnt reach. Although he wasn''t in shape, the trolls were known to be slow and there was enough space to train his reflexes as they came at him. Agility is a mages shield, Kai. Use it wisely, his masters voice rang in his head as he rolled through the gap between the troll''s legs before slinging another bolt at it. In his previous life, he had mostly ignored that advice. He was swift and trained for running, but he had never utilised it. Most of the time he spent covering the back and slinging spells. In this life, he wanted to change that and sharpen his skills with short-range combat, especially after what had gone on with the necromancer. With him being fairly weak, he needed to grow in all ways. Learning how to fight at close range might just save his life if he ever ran out of mana. Kai pictured the spell structure of [Searing Pyre], a 2nd circle spell. It formed in just a few seconds as a troll charged at him. Before it could reach him, a small bead of flame launched forward, hitting its shoulders and the next second, an explosion shook the area as the monster stumbled back, flesh and blood flying around Kai. Its whole shoulder was removed from its body and it lay dead just on top of the body of the wolf it had been eating before. The other two trolls looked at Kai with some hesitation seeing the display of strength, but with a guttural shout, one of them slashed at him. He jumped back, but the troll moved with vengeance, closing the distance in a matter of seconds. Kai used [Gust] to push it back before stomping at its feet. The attack didn''t seem to do anything as the second Troll struck from behind. He used a barrier to protect himself while hurling down [Fire Bolt] at it. They hit the troll''s neck and shoulders, but only left behind small marks as it cried out in stinging pain. It didn''t look like 1st circle spells were going to do much, and as Kai wondered if he should increase the firepower, an idea came to his mind. As the monster roared again, he swiftly prepared a [Fireball] and hurled it towards its mouth. It entered it as the monster coughed, the flames burning its jaw from inside. Taking the opportunity, he used a wind spell to cut the area around the neck which was already charred with his attacks. With the second monster dead, the third let out a visceral scream. It shrieked as Kai''s flames leapt towards it, roars turning into gurgling moans before they fell silent. The monster didn''t give up as it still tried to fight back, but Kai didn''t let it get close and unleashed more of his powerful spells on it. Finally after a few minutes, its fur singed and reeking of burnt flesh, the troll whimpered before falling to the ground. Dead. That took a few more spells than what I was expecting. Kai stood, panting heavily, the adrenaline slowly draining from his body. The air was thick with the stench of burnt flesh and decaying swamp matter. His robes were stained with dust, blood and sweat, but he was alive. Just a little out of breath and mana. Once he took a look around the grasslands and saw no one, he sat next to the dead bodies and inhaled. He felt a blanket of mana around him and pulled it inside of him, circling it into his Mana Heart. Kai took another deep breath in. Feeling the wave of mana rushing inside his body, he smiled. Although this current world was abundant with mana all around, the current ambient mana in the air was still on the higher side, letting him take more and more mana inside his body. It was all thanks to the dead bodies around him. Apart from killing the trolls to improve his skills, this had been his aim ever since he stepped outside the castle. Usually, after a death, mana from the bodies of the deceased tends to escape into the surroundings. As mana worked as energy in living beings, everyone would have a lot of mana residue inside of them and after death, it would mix into the air. So, Mages would sometimes kill a lot of monsters and let the mana from their body rise to absorb. It was a method to grow faster that he had no idea was popular or not in this era. Though, it wasn''t that simple. The mana from dead creatures wasn''t always pure and one needed to carefully filter it before absorbing it, making the method only used by a few with a great sense of mana control like Kai. Unfortunately, he had seldom used the method because of the rise of mana fiends. Since in his world mana fiends ruled a lot of parts, monsters were rare and there was no way to absorb dead mana without being willing to give up on your humanity. Kais focus intensified on his Mana Heart as absorbed most of the mana from his surroundings and felt a burning sensation in his chest. It was stinging, but he smiled understanding what it was. He was making a breakthrough. It was almost as if a sudden rush of pleasure. He felt the energy coursing through his very being. Focusing, Kai tried to put all the mana into building the 2nd circle in his heart, slowly moving his mana to accomplish it. It was a fairly easy process since he had more than enough mana to build it and after an hour of absorbing mana, he opened his eyes, feeling newfound strength coursing through his veins. Finally, he was a 2nd circle Mage. It was nowhere near his previous life''s strength and advancing from here on would simply be harder as he built more circles, but it was a good and necessary accomplishment out of his way. With a higher rate of regeneration of mana and a bigger mana reserve, he would be able to cast much stronger spells. It would help him immensely with his plans as he moved forward. The countless things that he had to deal with were undeniable. Mage Actra, the Tradeheart Merchant company all of these were problems he let be for the time being as he didnt have the resources nor the ability to afford any big negative consequences if he acted on them. Most of all, there was one question that rang in his mind every time he remembered he was living inside Arzan Kelliuss body. Kai knew that the answer to the question could be complex. As he was a son of the Duke, there could be many people who wouldn''t have liked his presence. Kai sighed and stood up. There was no use in worrying about things right now when he had no answers in sight. He glanced at the dead monsters one more time and decided to head back. The night was getting colder and he wanted to rest his eyes. *** Malden''s usual business facade crumpled into a reluctant smile as he stood amidst the throng in the bustling marketplace. A cacophony of barters, hagglers, and vendors hawking wares filled the air. But Malden wasn''t hawking anything ordinary. He was standing in a fairly medium-sized city and in his hand, he held a single, smooth, fist-sized stone. Its surface shimmered faintly, the intricate enchantments adding an undeniable value. His staff stood beside him, ready to distribute the "Heat stones" to the crowd. "Heat Stones!" Malden boomed, his voice barely cutting through the din. "Guaranteed warmth through the day, even in the harshest winter''s bite! A ripple of disbelief and murmurs went through the crowd. All of them had heard of the Heat stones, and how Malden was selling it all over in every big city, but they were seeing it for the first time. According to rumours, even nobles coveted them and during the harsh months of Frosania, they were the hottest commodity in the market. Malden held out his palm. Two gold coins each," he declared, his voice calm and steady. The marketplace fell silent. People looked at him like they were waiting for him to say that he had been lying about the price. Although there had been rumours of the Heat stones, people knew that nobles were paying hundreds of gold coins to get them before anyone else could. So, selling them for two gold coins was like selling gold for the price of copper. The disbelief on people''s faces mirrored Malden''s thoughts, but he was already getting a good profit out of the nobles and charging more from the commoners would mean most people wouldn''t be able to afford it. Is the price really true? A guy asked. In his hand, he held a fish he had just bought and was waving it to get attention. Yes, but only 100 left. So, get in a line or you won''t be able to get your hands on one. As soon as Malden said that, the crowd erupted in a frenzy. People surged forward, coins clenched tightly, their voices a jumbled chorus of pleas and barters. A few people ran back home to get the money while people like the guy with the fish returned it to put money together for the Heat stone. Malden staff and security quickly got a line made in the middle of the market, already used to the commotion Heat stones typically made. A weathered old woman, her face etched with the harsh lines of life, stepped forward, two gold coins clutched in her hand. Malden''s smile widened as one of his staff handed her the stone. The faint warmth emanating from it seemed to intensify in her calloused palm. His staff scrambled to keep up as people pushed each other to get to the Heat stones faster. Ignoring it, his staff distributed the stones and kept the gold coins in a box. "Tend to that side, Isabelle," Malden called out to a staff member after making sure that everything was going smoothly. He glanced around, catching the disbelieving gazes of other merchants. They scoffed, not believing what was going on. Most of their customers didn''t even look at their stalls anymore, staring at the people who got the Heat stones with envious eyes. Malden could see the jealousy simmering on their faces as they watched the stones disappear. He chuckled softly. Sometimes, the greatest value wasn''t the price, but the power to disrupt the game. A quick glance behind confirmed more people rushing towards them. His eyes caught someone familiar. "Handle the stall for a while," he instructed the young man beside him. The staff quickly filled the space and continued selling while Malden approached the old man. "Elias. Long time no see," he said with a broad smile. "Interesting display you have here, lad," Elias replied, his voice gruff yet curious. "Heat Stones at two gold coins each? They can go even higher if you try." Malden offered a lopsided grin. "Just a little something to ward off the cold. If I go higher, I doubt most would be able to afford it." Elias''s brow furrowed. "Indeed. But such generosity where''d you acquire such a treasure trove?" The old merchant''s eye looked at him with a glimmer. sea??h th N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Malden''s smile widened, his eyes twinkling. "Ah, that''s part of the secret, isn''t it? Let''s just say it wouldn''t be possible without the glorious intervention of Lord Arzan." Elias blinked, confused for a few seconds before he seemed to recall the name. "Lord Arzan? You mean the Duke''s third son?" "The very one," Malden confirmed. Elias scratched his beard thoughtfully. "But aren''t there rumours of Tradeheart well, eyeing the Arzan estates? Planning a takeover perhaps?" A hearty laugh escaped Malden''s lips. "Rumors, Elias, nothing more. Lord Arzan is a man of unorthodox methods, but his plans are always grand. And I can assure you, Tradeheart will soon be singing a different tune. Perhaps even finding themselves on the streets." 26. Morning drill The pre-dawn air hung crisp and cool. The season was still at its peak as Kai stepped onto the worn training grounds, the chilly air hitting him on his face. His eyes looked everywhere until they stopped at Killian. He ran in front of the guards, being a few steps ahead of the rest of them. The guards were running in lines, their faces drawn in a mixture of exhaustion as they struggled to match Killian''s pace. The latter was a whirlwind of energy. Kai was still quite far from the group, but he could hear Killians powerful and clear voice, cutting through the silence of the morning around the estate. "Come on, you lot move like arthritic snails! A goblin horde won''t wait for your yawns and stretches!" He spun around. His fiery eyes swept over the guards. His gaze lingered on a burly man, his chest heaving and shoulders slumped. Sarch* The N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "You there, Thoren! Are you planning to sleep-walk through the entire run? Put more effort into your legs and get in shape. We need to be fit and strong to protect the common people!" His voice was commanding. The guard, whose name Kai realised Thoren, mumbled something inaudible, his broad frame slumping further. Killian, however, wasn''t deterred. Come on, you lazy lot! I want to see those knees up higher! Move it, move it! His voice echoed across the grounds, mingling with the rhythmic sounds of boots pounding against the earth. Kai continued to stare at them. Killian wasnt just running and training the morning drill; he was embodying them. On top of it all, his frustration with the guards lack of enthusiasm was evident. He barked commands at the guards. He had heard from Francis that before Killian, the guards had been lazy and since he had taken command, they had been pushed to work harder. A few had even lost their jobs because they were too out of shape to be trained well in a few months. In the expedition, he had only taken the best guards they had, but if he thought about the whole unit, they certainly needed them to be stronger and fitter. A bead of sweat trickled down Kais temple as he continued to observe. He couldnt help but compare his morning routine to the training drill. It wasn''t like he was lazy, but unlike the guards, most of his work wasn''t a burden on his body. Before he could think further, a loud voice yelled, Halt, guards!. Killian spun around. His gaze, previously focused on the guards, narrowed as he saw Kai in the distance. The training ground fell silent. Killian straightened and dipped his head in a curt bow. The guards mirrored his action and bowed in unison. Killian said something inaudible to the guards and jogged towards Kai. The guards followed him and came closer to Kai. Their motions were in unison as they stood in some distance, looking nervous at his presence. Lord Arzan, Killians voice held a hint of formality yet remained laced with his usual gruffness. Here to watch our morning deficiencies? Kai shook his head, a slight smile playing at the corner of his lips. Killians eyes tempered with a flicker of curiosity. "Actually," Kai said, his voice steady, "I believe I''m here to participate." If he could, Kai would have captured the look on Killian''s face as his brows shot up in disbelief, looking like he was wondering if he should laugh at the joke or if it was serious. Once he realised it was, he scowled. His lips pursed, about to voice what was likely a sharp retort. But before a single word could escape, Kai was already in motion. He launched into a sprint. His black hair whipped behind him, the morning dew sparkling on his emerald cloak. "Just a few rounds, then," he called back over his shoulder, his voice laced with authority. "Consider it an... order." The word hung heavy in the air. Killian was momentarily speechless. The guards looked the same, looking baffled. Looking back, Kai saw Killian speaking something to the guards and then, with a resigned sigh, he mimicked his movements. His long strides quickly ate into the distance between them. The guards scrambled to their feet as they fell into line behind Killian. Kai, who gave a small glance behind, ran forward. The training ground was big enough for him to pant after just the first round. But his movements were sharp as they made it to the second round. It has been quite some time since he ran this much in such a short period, but his legs carried him. And like that, he was in the third round. He could hear Killians feet right behind him. He seemed to be keeping a close distance with him and although Kai was full of sweat and taking deep breaths, the knight looked like he was casually strolling through a garden. Soon, sweat trickled down Kais forehead, blurring his vision as even his eyes were covered in them. His breaths came in ragged gasps, and his muscles screamed in protest. Kai felt his leg movement slowing down. He didnt want to stop, but despite his best efforts, his legs began to wobble. Killian, who was right beside him, noticed the shift. Halt, everyone! His voice echoed across the training ground. The guards, panting but exhilarated, slowed down to a swift halt. Kai stumbled to a stop, his chest heaving and his legs threatening to give away as he lowered to the ground. Killian was at his side in an instant. He barked an order to a nearby guard, which Kai couldnt hear properly. Kai felt deaf for a brief second, the only thing he heard clearly was his heartbeat thumping loudly. Easy there, Lord Arzan, Killian rasped. You pushed yourself further than expected. He helped Kai regain his balance. Just keep going, Kai gasped, his voice was rough with exertion. He gestured weakly to the guards. Are you sure? Killian asked once more. Kai looked up to see how concerned Killian was. His eyebrows creased and his lips formed into a thin line. Even through sweat and heavy breaths, his concern looked evident. Ill be alright. Ill rest by the tree. I already sent someone to ask for water, Killian said. Kai nodded and pointed at the guards. Head back and continue. Killian simply nodded. Kai turned his back and started making his way to the nearby tree. His limbs were shaky as he slowly walked out of the ground. Under the tree, the bench was perfectly positioned. When he walked towards the bench, he heard Killians orders as the guards continued the drill. He sat on the bench and placed his hands on his knees. The sting that came from his bones was something he hadnt expected. It was mainly due to how long it had been since he physically exhausted himself with any sort of workout. He had felt the same during the skirmish with the necromancer, but back then, adrenaline had let him continue. A few seconds passed by with him just trying to catch his breath. From the corner of his eye, he saw Claire walking toward him with a canteen of water in her hand. Kai sat straight and took the water from her. "Are you alright, Lord Arzan?" she asked gently, her voice laced with worry. Kai took a long swig of the water. Before he could reply, he needed to quench his parched throat. He paused before bringing it to his lips and taking another long sip. When he felt enough, he put it down and looked at her concerned eyes. "Too weak," he rasped, the words a stark contrast to his usual confident demeanour. "I can''t... can''t afford to be weak. Not anymore. I can''t even run for long." You will get there, Lord Arzan. You are not used to it. It''s been a long time since you took part in training, right? Claire asked as a matter of fact. Kai simply nodded. Yes, been a while, but Ive to work on my body now. Anyway, thanks for bringing the water. he paused. His eyes fell on the guards who were training restlessly. A part of him, the Magus who had gone through dangerous situations, wanted to start running again, but he knew he would pass out and had to be dragged away if he tried. He didn''t want to show the guards such a scene, especially when his reputation had improved recently. A part of being a good Mage was also to know when to stop and take a rest. Claire smiled seeing him finish the canteen. A sigh escaped his lips as he realised he had much to improve physically. From afar, he could see how hard the guards were training. Their run and touch-down drill made a few guards take pauses in between. He finally saw Killian saying something to the guards and looking at Kais side. The guards saluted Killian in unison as he turned around and made his way towards Kai. Feeling better now, Lord Arzan? Killian asked as he approached. Kai smiled at him and gestured for him to sit next to him. Taking the moment, Claire walked away as she knew better than to listen to their conversation. Kai got to the topic without wasting any time. I plan on joining your training every day from now on. Killians eyes widened at the statement. Every day? he asked, surprised. Youre a Mage, Lord Arzan. You dont have to train like the guards for battles, he spoke his mind. Kai shook his head. Theres more to being a Mage than just spells, Killian. What if my mana runs out in the heat of battle? What if I need to dodge an attack, outrun an enemy, or even fight with something more than magic? He looked at the guards moving in perfect unison, their bodies honed for combat. Then, glanced down at his own body which was less than ideal. It was normal for an average Mage, but Kai didn''t like being average. I need to be more than just a walking fireball, Killian. I need to be quick on my feet, strong, and capable of surviving even when my magic fails me. Killian studied him for a moment. Kai wasnt joking in any sense. The practising wasnt for a hobby or to pass his time. He needed to get in better shape because he didnt know what more challenges lay ahead. A wise decision, Lord Arzan. He finally conceded. But be warned, these drills are meant to push us to our limits. They arent for the faint of heart. A grin stretched across Kais face. I got a bit of a taste of it. Killian slowly nodded. Id be honoured to tailor a training regimen that strengthens both your body and reflexes. We can start from tomorrow if you still manage to walk fine after all the running you did. It would be inappropriate if all of your training is with the guards. Yes, thatd be great. Kai glanced briefly at the guards. And, he continued, his gaze returning to Killian, in the coming days, I plan to recruit additional members for the guards. Oh? Killians forehead furrowed. I will be happy to welcome them but is it necessary right now? Kai smiled with a concealed motive and replied, Im not going to recruit any ordinary guards. What do you mean, Lord Arzan? Who- Kai cut him off short. I will show you something once I confirm it. I just need some time. The guards finally halted in their actions and stood straight. Yes, for sure. Ill be waiting to find out who they are. And thats my cue to attend to them, Killian pointed towards the guards who were waiting and stood up. Kai didnt say anything but nodded, watching him leave. *** Kai looked at the diverse visuals of the items that were on display before them. They were the stuff they had retrieved from the necromancer''s lair. Francis stood beside him. His weathered face was covered with a mixture of satisfaction and wariness. "Quite the haul, wouldn''t you say, Lord Arzan?" Francis rumbled, gesturing towards the spoils of their venture. Kai crouched down, his black eyes scanning the assortment. There was a staff, its vibrant wood dulled and emanating a faint, unsettling chill. It lay propped against a carved chest filled with gold coins. Next to it, dust-covered tomes with leather bindings sat. Did you get more information about him? He asked, glancing back at him. Francis nodded and knelt beside him, his voice low and grave. "The necromancer, it seems, hailed from a small academy deep within the Duchy of Blackwood. His name was Vincent Laksob, a Mage working as a professor in the Blackwood Academy there. He coveted the post of the headmaster and once he failed to get it after the current headmaster retired, he seemed to have turned on them." Just because of that? He seemed to have thought becoming the headmaster would let him have more resources to rank up since he was stuck as a 3rd circle Novice Mage for a long time. Even in his past life, Kai had seen a lot of Mages who had lost their mind or turned to dark paths if they were stuck in the same circle for a long time. A few he had trained with had the same fate. His face scrunched up and swallowing the bitterness, he forced his attention back to Francis. He seemed to have gotten a book on necromancy and practised dark arts in secret for a while," Francis continued, his voice laced with disgust. There were a few reports I got and the man was heinous. He once grazed a small village with his undead and whoever was killed became a soldier in his army. He even raised undead from a graveyard." Kai stood, his gaze lingering on the macabre tomes. "The Blackwood Duchy," Francis said, his voice regaining its gruffness, "is more than grateful for our assistance. They''ve requested a detailed report, of course. And," he added with a grin, "they''ve agreed to honour the bounty on his head, along with some additional compensation, considering the extra effort involved." Kai nodded curtly. His eyes lingered on the collection. Each item gave off a strange, unsettling feel to him, especially the staff. It was the same one he had been using in their fight. "We''ll have to dispose of all this," he said finally, his voice low and firm. "Burn it, every last piece." The staff might have good enchantments on it, but a necromancer''s staff wasn''t something he wanted to store in his house. As for the books, he wouldn''t want any other person to take a look through them and fall to the path of necromancy. His eyes fell to the tomes, eyeing each of them carefully. He would have to make sure to burn His eyes fixated on a book, tucked almost discreetly among the leather-bound tomes. The book was different. Even the cover of the book showed intricate diagrams of metallic and clay figures instead of skeletal ones. His curiosity piqued, and Kai reached out and grabbed it. The worn leather was cold against his fingertips. He flipped it open immediately. Reading through the columns of it, his eyes widened as he saw all the patterns and texts that weren''t related to any dark arts but were incredibly interesting. Materials, enchantments, animating constructs golems. - - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 27. Golems Kais eyes narrowed in concentration as he looked at the book in his hand. He cautiously flipped open the cover, and a faint scent of aged paper tickled his nose. The yellow papers had his sole attention. He turned pages one after the other. He couldnt help but be absorbed in the letters, lines and curves that were inside it. It was written in Manakrit, a language often used for magical art. Kai had read books in it all his life and although the ones here had words and sentences that he was unfamiliar with, he had adapted. What is it, Lord Arzan? Francis questioned curiously, breaking his focus. Well Kai started but his eyes were glued on the books. A moment of silence passed as Kai kept reading as much as he could. He saw Francis leaving the question behind and bending down to look at the other belongings of the necromancer. The first few pages were detailed sketches of various golem designs. Their forms ranged from hulking and imposing to sleek and agile. There were ones made from clay, wood, and metal and one small drawing of what looked like a golem that seemed to have been scribbled as a pastime. As he turned the pages, his heart skipped a beat. Among the diagrams were handwritten notes, the ink a faded brown, hinting at years of study. Most of the notes were in Manakrit, but from time to time, there were languages like Elfham, an ancient language of the elves that human scholars would sometimes learn the basics of. There were also different handwritings, meaning that it had been passed down a lot. With just one look, he could say that the notes spoke of different materials enchanted metals, infused clays, and even rare, alchemically treated wood each possessing unique properties that imbued the finished golem with specific strengths and weaknesses. The written material made his eyebrows knit together. There was considerable detail and dedication that was put into explaining everything. His fingertip halted in between pages. Besides the words that were written in Manakrit, there were some scribbled notes in the common tongue that he assumed came from the necromancer. Kai squinted his eyes trying to look at them closely, but the dim light made it harder for him to focus on the insides. He closed the book gently. It didnt seem like a mere reference book on golems. It was a personal journal passed down to a lot of people, including the necromancer. The notes and the creases that were in the book were evidence of how long the journey of the journal had been. On the other hand, golemancy itself was a rare and misunderstood school of magic. Unlike necromancy, which manipulated the deceased, golemancy focused on the creation of sentient constructs. It was an art steeped in history, practised by ancient civilizations who used golems for construction, defence and even companionship. Kai vaguely remembered the rumours passed in whispers, of a kingdom far to the east ruled by a powerful mage who employed an army of golems. He didn''t know if it was true, or if it even existed in the current era, but it was a famous story to tell whenever golemancy would come up. However, the art had faded into obscurity by the time he had begun his magic training. He finally glanced at Francis, his voice layered with surprise. Francis, he inquired gaining his attention from where he was staring at the staff, was there any indication that the necromancer practised golemancy? The latter stood up from the crouched position and stroked his beard thoughtfully. Yes, Lord Arzan, his eyes widened. I remember several notations like that in the report sent by the Blackwood Duchy. He had it as one of his magical arts. He paused for a moment. Before Kai could say anything he continued. From what I gathered, his knowledge of golemancy was what allowed him to grasp the fundamentals of necromancy quicker than most. It is quite sad if you ask me. He was a Mage, someone countless people would do anything to be in his shoes, but he threw it away. Francis said, heaving a sigh in the end. Although Kai agreed with his sentiments, his attention was on something else. Looking down, he dusted off the book. A wave of realisation washed over Kai. He guessed that the necromancer tried to master golemancy and since both magical arts overlapped on controlling other beings, no matter how different they were, he was able to master necromancy easily. With golems, he must have been working on his enchantment skills since those two gelled well together. It explained certain things about his fighting style and as Kai made more conjuntions about the necromancer, Francis took his attention. If you want more details, I can request from the Duchy, My Lord. They would be happy to provide us with more information, he said while looking at Kai and searching for an answer in his facial expressions. Kai shook his head. I will let you know if I need them. He lifted the book that was in his hand. Ill take a good look at this book, Francis. He pointed at the rest. But these They need to be purged immediately. Burn them, every last one of them. Francis scrunched up his nose. I agree, Lord Arzan. They reek of something disgusting. I will burn them right now, he said and nodded. Kai understood that he was referring to the scent of the necromancer''s cave that was still in the air that was on his belongings. It was indeed disgusting. *** The flickering flame of a single candle emitted dancing shadows on Kais face as he sat hunched over his desk. His face was close to the book as he tried to take a look at the patterns and designs that were etched on the cover of the book. The scent of the aged pages mixed with dust hit his nostrils. Although he took a glance at the book when he was with Francis, he wanted to go deeper into it. The subject interested him for several reasons. Without thinking further, he opened it. He traced his finger across the diagrams he first saw that depicted figures of clay, stone, cloth, and metal. Besides the diagram, the descriptions of them were explained in Manakrit language. Kai paused for a moment and started reading them. In the initial pages, there were a few details on golemancy. The details included the materials that could be used and in which ways. It was a basic introduction telling the reader about how to go on with selecting the right materials for the golem. Something caught his eye as he continued reading. It was mentioned that depending on the materials and enchantments, different powers could be manipulated. But the heart of every golem, the text mentioned, lay within the core. This wasnt a singular object, but it was rather crafted by fusing alchemical concoctions and materials harvested from vanquished monsters. Kai thought back to the time he had been in an artificial dungeon where he had found a room with golems in it. They weren''t operative and most of them were in bad shape. There, he had seen the core of it, but it wasn''t in a shape to be studied. He turned the page and saw a pulsating, red orb labelled Dungeon Core. The text explained that these rare cores could act as an alternative to the standard golem core, granting the construct life force and even a rudimentary form of sentience. A shiver ran down his spine as he read it. Looking back, he saw the window open and closed with an easy-to-do wind spell. His eyes fell on a scrawled note in the margin of the page. The ink was a darker shade than the rest of the text. The handwriting seemed like someone had been in a hurry. Too expensive. The note read. It was written after circling one of the few materials that was needed to craft one of the golem designs. Nevertheless, the two words had been underlined several times for emphasis. On the next page, there were other freshly-inked words. Materials alone cost a fortune, even with bartering with those damned dwarves. Enchantments getting better, but the coin purse is running dry faster than my patience. Kai frowned, and a jolt of understanding shot through him. It seemed like the necromancer liked to write down his thoughts and struggles while going through the book. It was not just a book on golemancy, but also a personal journal for him. Though, he had to say that his handwriting was bad. They were cursive and the letters barely connected their lines and curves properly. It looked like he had been writing in frustration and didn''t even bother properly scribbling a few words. Kai placed his finger under the notes, reading them once again. Quickly, he started turning pages to find if there were more notes. Like he thought, there were a few other notes in different places as he read through. The man had known the art of golem, maybe even had the ambition to master golemancy. But the cost of materials, and limitations of the resources he had led him to another path. He must have wanted to take revenge, but golems were too expensive. Unlike them, the undead could be raised easily from a cemetery. He didnt need coins, nor rare metals or build up a space to do golemancy experiments. Kai flipped back a few pages, his eyes landing on the section detailing dungeon cores. Another note filled the margin. The letters were written in a bolder hand. Dungeon core! Answer to everything! Power, life force, minimal cost! Just need to experiment. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai sighed. The necromancer was desperate and needy. The details and the necromancers scribbles implanted in his mind the high cost of the materials, the limitations of traditional magic. He let out a humourless chuckle. Even if the necromancer was desperate, he had taken up getting corrupted and turned into a lich rather than being an honourable Mage. In the end, it had cost him his life. In a way, the necromancer wouldnt have been the first, nor the last to be lured by dark magic just out of sheer desperation. But the pages felt extremely interesting. The way the details were described to the way even little details mattered it was all fascinating. Apart from the details on the golemancy, taking a peek into the necromancers mind was also intriguing. Kai suddenly thought. The book, the notes they were all too tempting. In his past life, he had taken alchemy as a primary magical art, and only took a basic interest in the other types of arts that his master and other Mages taught around the Sorcerer''s Tower. Alchemy had its perks that Kai was drawn to the resourcefulness, the experimentation including many other aspects made him master alchemy with need. But he had always been interested in building things. His eyes fell back on the book. He traced the diagrams of the simpler golems. the hulking stone brute, the nimble wooden scout C the possibilities swirled in his mind. A major reason the necromancer wasn''t able to build golems was the cost and wanted to get dungeon cores to facilitate it, but going into a dungeon was dangerous. He was desperate. But Kai wasn''t a desperate man. He, however, understood alchemy, a discipline built on meticulous control and precise calculations. He also had access to a noble''s resources, a luxury the necromancer hadn''t. The sheer allure of golemancy and its potential tugged at him with an irresistible force. A mischievous grin spread across his face. If he were to take this path, it wouldnt be easy. It would need meticulous planning, a fusion of his alchemical expertise and a lot of help from the book he found. The rewards though he could make groundbreaking discoveries. The smile on his face faded as he remembered he still had other stuff on his agenda. The girl they rescued, recruiting more people, and even the castle affairs. They all required his attendance. He closed the book with a thoughtful thump. He stood up and walked to his bed, all the while thinking about golems. 28. Strange History The girl they brought back from the cave was kept in the building where a few castle workers stayed. They all were in different rooms far from Amyra and were asked not to disturb her unless she needed something. Kai knew the maids were curious about her due to her rare features and the reason he had kept her safe, but they followed his direct orders. The room it wasnt anything luxurious, but was spacious and had enough walls to protect her privacy. A small bed, a lamp, a few books and clothes were brought to her on the first day. Kai sat next to her in the small space over the bed where she had her arms extended towards him. Her back was hunched in an uncomfortable position, but she obeyed how Kai wanted her to stay. She stayed motionless, her brows furrowed in pain. Kai was using a [Heal] spell on her skin, making the marks disappear. It wasnt just the surface, Kai was healing the fractured bones the woman had on her. Can you turn around? Kai questioned. Amyra simply withdrew her hand and turned around. Kai could see the marks that spread from her neck that seemed to go below. He placed his hand, hovering over her neck and started casting [Heal] spell again and again. The mana started flowing out of him, powering up the spell structure instantly. He opened his eyes and continued to look at the injury that immediately started to disappear. Since the injuries werent from corruption, it was just an easy display of magic. Claire had taken a look at them before and told Kai to get a Cleric to use herbal medicines, but he had plans to know more about her. . Kai glanced at her skin. His eyes went down from her neck before stopping as the glimpse of a blackened wrist caught his attention. Okay, its done. Can I see your wrist? He asked. The woman jumped back as Kai spoke, startled and hid her wrist. She soon gathered herself and turned around, giving her hand to him. Kais fingers wrapped around her wrist to see if there was any serious injury there. These were welts angry red gashes that spoke of a harsh beating. When he tried to turn her wrist over, she flinched slightly. Im sorry I will be more careful, he said. She looked at Kai with fear reflecting in her golden eyes. Kai looked at the wrist and started to push mana to heal her hand. As his hands hovered over hers, he kept his eyes on her behaviour. He felt at ease seeing how she wasnt struggling, unlike the first time when he tried to heal her. Her eyes were just filled with a deep-seated fear of the magic he pulsated. "Don''t worry," he murmured, his voice a low rumble meant to soothe. It felt strange as he wasn''t used to it, but he was getting better. "This will help with the pain." His eyes went back to the wrists. A small glow emanated from his hands as he pushed in his mana. Amyra sucked in a sharp breath. Kai looked up to see her gaze flickering away from their hands and towards the wall where their shadows were plastered. As the magic continued to work, Kai couldnt help but try to make a small conversation with her. Where are you from, Amyra? he asked gently. Is there someone who can help take you back home? Her golden eyes darted towards him, then back to the shadows. Her lips remained sealed and he knew that she had no intention of answering him. Kai tried again. This time, he tried with a softer approach. Do you have a home? Family? he asked, looking at her with worried eyes. Just the faintest tremor in her shoulders. She seemed uncomfortable with the questions. Kai sighed as he worked on the last tendril of the healing spell. He finished it and withdrew his hand once he was satisfied. Thatd be it for today. Your wrists should feel better now, Kai said and stood up. He saw how she tried to twist and turn her wrists. He turned around and started walking towards the door. As he took a few steps, a faint murmur broke the silence. Thank you, Amyra voiced out in a whisper. Kai looked back for a brief moment and nodded at her, knowing that was all hed get out of her for the time being. *** The noon arrived sooner as Kai spent the morning healing Amyra. His usual routine was messed up as the priorities for the day changed. He had already finished making the Heat stones batch for the week and was free from that work. Other work was handled by Francis and the man wanted Kai to rest since he had just come back from the expedition. That''s why, he headed to the library as soon as he walked out of Amyra''s room. Sitting there, his eyes were plastered on the book in his hand. His frown deepened as the musky scent of old pages filled his nostrils. Kais hold tightened around the book. It was a book of records related to the kingdom in the last few decades. It contained every major detail and events that had happened, and who had been significant during the time period. For the past hour, he has been reading and trying to grasp the situation in his hand. sea??h th N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Lord Arzan, this is what you asked, Claire walked towards him with four books in her hand. Yet again, they were all records he had requested, containing history from all over the world. They were all just to confirm his thoughts and what he had found so far. Thanks, he took them from her and started shuffling through the pages, trying to find something His finger traced through the lines, reading everything that was written on the aged papers. What are you looking for, Lord Arzan? Anything else that I can help with? Claires voice came in a whisper. No, this much should be enough, he said, waving his hand. Kai ran a hand over the worn spine of a leather-bound tome, its title obscured by swirling gold lettering. Across the table, Claire meticulously traced a diagram with the tip of her finger, her brow furrowed in concentration. As Kai didnt need her assistance, she seemed to be doing her own thing in the library as usual. Silence stretched between them, punctuated only by the rhythmic creak of floorboards and the howling wind outside the window. Kais eyes traced after his fingers which went over names written on a list. Finally, Kai slammed the book shut with a sigh. He combed his hair in frustration as he looked at Claire. She immediately stood straight. "What is it, Lord Arzan?" Claire asked again, her gaze flickering up and looking towards the book he had been reading. Kai tossed the book onto the table with a clatter. "This," he said, gesturing vaguely. The name of the book was Men Who Changed History. Everything is wrong with it. Kai clenched his fingers, a frown creasing his brow. He picked up a slimmer book, its cover adorned with a faded symbol that vaguely resembled a stylized eye. "I was looking into the most influential people of the past fifty years," he explained, flipping through the pages. I noticed something strange in them." "Strange how?" Claire leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. Most of them," Kai said, his voice low, Most of them who shaped the world in the last half-century... they were all Mages." Claire blinked. Lord Arzan, isn''t that common? She asked as if she didnt know anything better. Kai shook his head, his frustration mounting. "Not necessarily. Mages are rare and powerful and they often dictate the world, but they are not the only ones. There''s much more than just Mages in the world who could wield power." In the book, there were nobles, kings, and researchers, but if they were Mages, they were referred to as one. Also, the list disregarded a lot of other people who could wield power. It was human-centric and Kai had expected it, but it seemed like either Mages were too influential or the books he was reading were the wrong ones. Kai thought for a moment. Do you know any knights or warriors who could stand up to Mages?" Claire''s brow furrowed in thought. Her fingers, which had been tracing the diagram, stilled completely. A long moment of silence stretched between them, only broken by the sound of a rat running through the floorboards in the back of the library. Finally, she let out a frustrated puff of air. "No," she said, shaking her head decisively. "Not that I''m aware of. From what I''ve always known, Mages are on a whole other level. Even the weakest ones could wipe out entire villages. Knights are well respected and they are known as protectors, but I have never heard of a knight defeating a Mage. It''s like comparing a flickering candle to the midday sun. Mages are considered gifts from the gods, after all. Common humans just aren''t built to withstand that kind of raw power." Kai listened intently, his expression a mask of barely contained frustration. When she finished, he didn''t speak for a beat, then let out a slow, deliberate exhale. "Right," he finally conceded, nodding curtly. But then, something unexpected came out of his mouth. "And wrong," he added, the single word laced with a quiet determination. Claire''s eyes widened in surprise. "Right and wrong?" she echoed, a note of disbelief colouring her voice. "How can that be?" A slow smile crept across Kai''s face. He leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. "Let''s just say," he began, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "Every dominant force eventually faces competition. It might not be something anyone''s aware of yet, but" He trailed off, his gaze flickering towards the towering stacks of books lining the library walls. Claire leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "But what?" she pressed, unable to contain her eagerness. Kai tapped his temple as a thoughtful expression masked it. He didn''t answer her question directly. He didnt want to let Claire know everything because she wouldnt be able to understand what he meant. He knew something she didnt, but he would need more evidence before he could work on it. Without another word, he rose abruptly from his chair. With newfound purpose, he began gathering a handful of books from the overflowing pile on the table. "I''ll figure it out first," he declared, his voice firm with conviction. After that, I will show you what I mean. With that, Kai turned and strode out of the library, leaving Claire staring after him in confusion. He was about to go to his room and start searching for what he wanted all over again. As he closed the door after him, he tightened his grip on the books. 29. Shapeshifter of Veralt Killian knocked on the door and walked in when he heard a shout. He stopped as the scent of piped tobacco hit his nostrils. "Killian! Good to see you," Francis''s raspy voice boomed. He gestured towards a seat across from him, the worn wood groaning under Killian''s weight as he settled in. "Heard there''s news from Malden?" Killian asked, his voice direct, cutting straight to the chase. Francis straightened, a hint of pride flickering in his cloudy blue eyes. He reached into the desks drawer and retrieved a sealed scroll, the red wax insignia bearing a sigil, often used by merchants. "Just received this in the morning''," he announced, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Seems Malden took quite the shine to our little Heat stones." He broke the seal with a practised flick of his wrist, carefully unfolding the parchment. His eyes scanned the contents, a low chuckle rumbling in his chest. I was waiting for you or Lord Arzan to walk in before opening it here, have this tea. Francis pushed the mug in front of him forward so Killian could reach it. Anyway, this says that he sold over half of them already. His voice was thick with satisfaction. "And at a price even higher than we anticipated. Nobles are opening their chest for it and even commoners are trying to get it in their hands as soon as possible, so they don''t mind paying more." Killian''s posture relaxed slightly. He expected good news, but it was even better than what he had assumed. Heat stones seemed to be an even bigger hit outside Veralt. "That''s good news, Francis," he said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Enough to settle our accounts?" Francis chuckled again. He tapped the letter against the desk. "Enough, and then some, Killian. By the time he returns, we''ll be out from under the debt and with a tidy sum left over." Relief washed over Killian. He felt his shoulders relax in the moment. Killian could easily say that it was the same for Francis. Francis continued to read the parchment, a satisfied sigh escaping his lips. A hearty laugh boomed through Francis'' office as Killian slammed his mug of tea on the desk. Here, read the end of this letter. Noblemen requesting special Heat stones, carved all fancy-like for their posh homes? Now that''s something I wouldn''t have believed a month back!" Francis, his face flushed with a mixture of amusement and pride said aloud. Killian thought back to weeks back when Tradeheart merchant company had knocked on their doors, behaving badly and demanding they hand over their farmlands. He had seen no option, but for Lord Arzan to beg his brother for the sum. Now, things have changed dramatically. . "Indeed it has. Just a while back, the city felt like a ghost town, everyone holed up, fear gnawing at their insides." He swirled the amber liquid in his mug. "But now," he continued, his voice dropping to a thoughtful murmur, "there''s something different. The people are talking with so much hope! Even the guards They were discussing how Lord Arzan defeated the necromancer. His reputation seemed to be increasing with them, especially because of the rewards he bestowed upon the fallen." He fixed Francis with a steady gaze. Francis started to talk, Things are changing fast and for the good. A part of me believes it''s just the start. After months, Lord Arzan had taken his duties as the lord and he seems to know what he''s doing. He''s indeed very decisive about his decisions. That''s a good sign of a lord. It was normal for Killian and Francis to discuss castle matters, and this time they found a new subject that they couldnt talk about in private for quite some time since Killian had been away for the expedition and Francis had been busy overlooking the distribution of the Heat stones in the city and the collecting herbs for soup. Francis puffed out his chest. "Lord Arzan hasnt always been a man of the people. But now, he sees the potential in things, and takes a chance." He tapped the letter from Malden significantly. "And look where it''s gotten us. We might just take Veralt to another level, Killian. We might be able to make it a place we can be proud of, but there''s one thing I can''t put my finger on." Killian raised an eyebrow. What''s that? He''s almost like a different man entirely," he rumbled, his voice low. The simple statement hung in the air. Killian''s brow furrowed, his eyes reflecting the same contemplative glint and he barely managed to stop himself from nodding. Lord Arzan, the man they both knew, hadnt always been like this, true. But lately, there was a spark in his eyes. His nature had changed for the better and he seemed to have a plan for everything. A year back, Killian couldn''t even rely on him to pull himself together. When they were coming to Veralt, he had been whining all the way and looked done with life. "There''s certainly something... different about him," Killian finally admitted, his voice barely a whisper. He unlocked his potential as a Mage suddenly and maybe that''s the reason. But the knowledge he has displayed is something I have never seen before." Francis nodded slowly, his gaze fixed on Killian. "Yeah," he rumbled, his voice laced with a hint of unease. "A change like this... it can be a good thing, a leader stepping up in a time of crisis. But sometimes..." he trailed off, his voice fading into a thoughtful murmur. "Sometimes," Killian finished for him, his voice grave, "change can be unpredictable. A good fire can bring warmth, but an untamed inferno can consume everything in its path. But When it comes to Lord Arzan, I cant pinpoint what has happened. Was he hiding his knowledge all this time?" Francis shifted forward in his seat. Do you think he could be? Killian searched in his eyes for what he could be asking. But as soon as he realised what Francis meant, he scoffed. A snort escaped his lips. "Shapeshifter? Weaver? Don''t be ridiculous, Francis. You know he wouldn''t go sniffing around Clerics if that were the case." Francis grunted. "Yeah. But the change, Killian... it''s undeniable." He paused as his eyes went to his fidgeting fingers. Lord Arzan never cared for the common folk before. Now, he''s all about hope, about rebuilding the city and the guards." "True enough. Though, becoming a Mage can do that to a person. Gives you a new perspective, seeing the world from a different vantage point." His words hung in the air, laced with a hollow echo of uncertainty. They both knew it was a flimsy explanation, a mere attempt to rationalise the unexplainable shift in Lord Arzans behaviour. "Maybe it''s just... a coming-of-age sort of thing," Killian continued, the words tasting like ash in his mouth. Lord Arzan was young, yes, but having such a drastic personality shift to maturity felt like grasping at straws. Francis looked at Killian curiously. How was he before when you were a retainer at the Dukes? Well, the man practically was like a blood drinker, hating the sun. He stayed in the room, quietly. And to add on top of that, his brothers had quite a complicated relationship with him. The peak was during the succession. Things were bad then. Lord Arzans current personality This is very different. Now that you asked about it, I doubt the coming-of-age thing matters." Killian fell into a quiet thinking. "There was a coldness to him then," he repeated once again, his voice low. "A distance, like he built walls around himself to keep everyone out." Francis nodded slowly. The image of the young Arzan, aloof and unapproachable, Killian remembered him clearly. He used to accompany Lord Arzan in a few of his outings and he was a quiet child who looked like he didn''t want anything to do with nobles. I dont understand- Before Francis could finish what he started to say, a sharp rap on the door startled them both. Killian rose and crossed the room, his hand instinctively reaching for the hilt of his dagger hidden beneath his doublet. The door creaked open, revealing Lord Arzan on the threshold. A stack of leather-bound papers rested in his arms. What are you two talking about? He asked. Francis cleared his throat. "Lord Arzan," he greeted with a bow. "Just discussing... matters related to Malden and the Heat stones. They seem to be a hit with the nobles." Killian, his brow furrowed, remained silent. Lord Arzan offered a curt nod, his expression unreadable. "Good to hear," he replied, his voice devoid of its usual vibrancy. He strode into the room, his steps echoing in the sudden hush. Setting the stack of papers with a decisive thud, his gaze locked onto the both of them as his eyes glinted. "Im glad I could find you both here. I have something that requires your immediate attention." Killian and Francis exchanged a glance, a silent question hanging between them. The way Lord Arzans eyes glinted made Killian more curious. "What is it, Lord Arzan?" Francis finally asked, his voice laced with a hint of trepidation. Lord Arzan met their gaze, his expression turning serious. "It concerns Killian," he declared, his voice firm. Killian''s heart lurched. Before Killian could voice his unease, Lord Arzan continued. "Specifically, his role as an Enforcer." Killian exchanged a glance with Francis, wondering if he heard him. The administrator looked as confused as him. sea??h th novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Enforcer?" he echoed, tilting his head in confusion. What''s that? "Killian," Lord Arzan began, his voice low and measured. "Do you know why only a select few individuals possess the ability to harness ambient mana and wield spells?" "The three organs, my Lord," he explained, his voice steady despite the confusion that ran through him. "Heart, veins, and brain. Without all three functioning in perfect harmony, the ability to manipulate mana and cast spells is rendered impossible." Francis gave a nod next to him. Without the three organs, a human could never even think of manipulating mana. Although all of them could store mana, only the ones having the three organs could wield it as a weapon. Killian had learned it very early on since he had been tested as a Mage as a child. The results were unsatisfactory and thinking back to it, his brows furrowed. "Indeed," Lord Arzan said, breaking him out of his thoughts. "But what if the traditional understanding is... incomplete?" A beat of silence followed. "What What does that mean? Killian immediately questioned. Lord Arzan''s lips curved into a faint, enigmatic smile. "Perhaps," he replied, his voice laced with a hint of something strange that he couldn''t pinpoint. "What if I told you that with two organs, specifically the heart and the mind, one can achieve a different kind of power?" Killian and Francis once again locked eyes with each other. Thats useless, Lord Arzan. All three matters, and that has been the norm for ages, Killian said and Francis nodded again in agreement. He straightened, his gaze locking onto Killian with a decisive glint. I know that''s what you have been taught, but it''s not the case. A Mage needs three organs, but an Enforcer doesn''t. How does that even work? Francis asked, looking like he was deliberating whether it was a prank. I will show it to you two, Lord Arzan said. Just understand, with the heart and mind just with those two, one can leap beyond the constraints of mortals. An Enforcer can go beyond the natural strength a mortal can achieve and enforce his body with mana. Hence, the name. Killians frown deepened. He immediately felt his throat go dry. - - - Hey everyone we crossed 4.2k in RR! Close to 4300. now! Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. I have a question for you all? Should I change the cover? And coming forward, I will be getting a few beta readers for my novels on my server. So, let me know if that''s a good idea. I will post more details about it soon. Continue, follow, like this chapter!! Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 30. Enforcers Kais eyes halted over Killian. Sar?h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The latters curiosity was written all over his face. His eyes widened slightly, thinking about what just Kai said. His finger was tapping on his chin, thoughts written all over his face. Kai gave a subtle smile. You must be wondering how it all happens. He looked in between Killian and Francis. "Mana. Everyone has it. And everyone can absorb mana. I shouldnt emphasise that even normal people can absorb mana, but only a few can use it for something greater. Do you really think only Mages can manipulate mana? Yes, Killian said. If it were possible for others to do it, then Mages wouldn''t have such privileges around the world. He shook his head. "Think of mana like a seed," Kai explained. The Mana Heart is like the soil. It stores and provides the raw energy, the potential. The brain is like the gardener. It senses the mana, directs its flow, and shapes it into something useful. Grow the right crop. The mana veins are like irrigation channels. They carry the mana from the heart throughout the body, distributing it where needed, like to your palms where spells manifest. His fingers traced something in the air as lines appeared. It was an easy display of mana, one that made a diagram of a human in front of them. Francis and Killian gasped at it. Now, if you have three of these, you are good to go. Unless there''s something like a vein blockage or a defective heart, you would be able to become an able Mage. Kai paused, then drew a shape in the head, like a crude image of the brain. He connected it to the Mana Heart and left out the veins. Now, there are cases where one has two organs out of the three. Out of a hundred people, one will have all three organs, but around ten will have at least two. If it''s brain and heart, then they could be Enforcers. Obviously, there are uses if they have veins and a heart too, but it''s not generally effective since sensing mana is important to do anything with it. If there are no irrigation channels, how will it even work? Killian asked, and Francis nodded in agreement. Not every crop or plant grows with irrigation, few grow under the soil, few don''t even need water. The irrigation channels don''t need to be present until the soil is apt and the gardener knows what to do with it, Kai said, smiling. In easy words, there''s not one way to manipulate mana. Humans aren''t meant to be rigid. Lord Arzan, your words make sense, but if there''s a way like that, then I don''t know why no one knows about it, Francis muttered. Your words sound good as a theory, but I don''t think it''s practical enough. Kai clapped his hands together, knowing they understood what he was trying to explain. It is practical. It''s not about how much mana you have or whether you can use it like a Mage. It''s about how the power inside you chooses to manifest." I''m sorry, but that sounds as plausible as finding a dragon''s lair in the mountains," Killian grumbled, his voice rough and sceptical. He roughly raked a hand through his hair, looking at Kai with a confused expression plastered on his face. He blinked as he bit his lips and frowned. Im sorry for my words, Lord Arzan. What exactly are you talking about? Your words sound like something out of a dream and they aren''t real. Kai looked at Francis. He seemed to grasp some of what Kai explained, but Killians confusion was growing vividly. It made sense since he had heard that Killian was a candidate to be a Mage, but had failed in the testing. Not being able to wield mana must have been a stinging wound for him. Now, Kai was talking about how he could manipulate mana. If he was in his steps, he might have even lashed out. Fortunately, he had a way to prove his words. Kai grinned. "Have you ever heard of the Ashari Desert? A place where they say there''s barely enough mana in the air for a Mage to come up? A literal wasteland." Killian nodded slowly. Yes, I have heard of the place. It''s a place beyond Lancephil Kingdom. I have heard tales of it being a cursed land, ruled by the sand clans. They don''t have Mages. How do you think they protect themselves against the sand beasts? A glint flashed in Killian''s eyes and he visibly struggled to put words out. Finally, he spoke. They call themselves sand knights, right? I heard the story from one of my instructors. They use mana to strengthen their bones, some form of spells it is and gain supernatural strength. Exactly, Kai said. But you are wrong. It''s not spells. They don''t call themselves Mages. Although a few of them might be Mages, they don''t have enough mana in the air to do spells higher than 1st circle. So, they focus on their bodies and become Enforcers. In history, it wasn''t known when the first Enforcer had emerged, but from what Kai had read, their techniques had always been there. Different clans in different parts of the world would hide them and won''t reveal them to outsiders. It was only by the end of the Golden Era of Magic that Enforcers became popular. Originally, Kai had thought that Enforcers were always a part of society, but just became popular in the Golden era of magic. One reason was also that the records before it were hard to find. Even the ones dating back to the Golden Era were rare. Even if I agree with what you are saying, that sort of secret could change the whole world. I don''t think clans from the Ashari desert would agree to hand over their techniques. Killian frowned, glancing at Francis who seemed to be thinking of whatever he knew of the desert clans. We don''t need them to hand over their techniques. I just used it as an example, he said and looked at the arm of the knight. Without a warning, Kai grasped Killian''s battle-scarred hand with a surprisingly firm grip. "Relax, Killian," he murmured, his voice low. "Let me show you something." Yeah? Killian relaxed under his orders. A warmth flowed from Kai''s palm into Killian''s, a faint pulse of energy snaking up his arm. It was subtle, yet undeniable, like a heartbeat thrumming underneath the skin. Killian stiffened, his gruff expression morphing into one of startled curiosity. Kai released his hand, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. I was checking your organs and you have got both. Heart and brain, I saw you sensing mana back when the merchant came to bother us and I wasn''t wrong." "Yes," Killian said slowly, rubbing his arm as if the warmth still lingered. His frown deepened, My family paid for the testing when I was a child. A Mage looked for my organs and announced that I had two, but lacked veins to do magic properly. My family was disappointed and off to knighthood training I went after that, under the Duke." His eyes clouded like he was back to a bad time in his life. Kai guessed that his childhood had been rough. It might just be his expectations of being a Mage or his family pushing him to be one due to the prestige. Probably the latter. Kai nodded in understanding. What if you have the power to defeat even a Mage inside of you?" Killian snorted, the scepticism returning to his face. He shook his head immediately. Kai turned his head around and saw the papers he brought with him. In a swift motion, he picked it up and handed one of them to Killian. Dont dismiss me so quickly, Kai said. His eyes were firm on Killian. Read, learn, and then well talk. Killian took the papers in his hand. Kai looked between the duo and sat in a seat that was opposite Franciss chair. He saw Killian reading up what was on the paper with Francis craning his neck to take a peek at it. Time passed like that. Each rustle of papers was punctuated by grunts of surprise, a deep frown etching itself between his eyebrows. "Well, I''ll be..." Killian muttered, tracing a finger over a crude diagram that seemed to chart invisible lines within a human form. "This... you''re saying this is inside me? All this time?" Yes. Kai nodded. "It can''t. It just can''t!" His voice rose, tinged with a mix of awe and denial. The room fell silent as he kept reading. Kai didn''t argue. He simply slid another page forward, a set of meticulously detailed exercises unlike anything seen in a book in the library. Killian stared, the words blurring before his eyes. This wasn''t about casting fireballs or weaving illusions. Because the pages were of different diagrams with careful instructions laid out to awaken as an Enforcer. Kai slowly observed their expressions. "I still don''t..." Killian began, his voice thick with confusion, "How? How can this make me..." Kai cut him off, "Awakened. That''s the word. And if you do awaken as an Enforcer, you could take down that blasted necromancer on your own. Don''t you want that kind of power?" His voice lowered. "To protect this city, to protect everyone. You are getting older and you know it. Your strength should serve you for ten more years before ageing will make you weaker. That''s the natural process of a human, but with this, you would rise above it. A long silence fell over the table. Killian stared at the diagrams. Kai was trying to make him see the future with the diagrams and the promise of an Enforcer. He was already too old to start as an Enforcer, but they had to take the risk. Finally, Killian gave a slow, deliberate nod, his eyes still clouded as he held the papers, but that was enough for Kai who smiled. *** They walked back to Kais room to begin the process. Killian sat cross-legged on the floor. Opposite him, Kai knelt, his eyes bearing on Killian. He had dismissed Francis since he didn''t want to be disturbed and the old man had promptly left. Now, only the quiet rasp of Killian''s breath and the soft glow of the candle filled the room. The papers that Kai previously brought lay on his small study table. And the rest of the room was neatly cleaned. "Alright, Killian," Kai began, his voice low and measured. "This is the first step. We need to awaken your Mana heart and then" he paused, searching for the right words, "force it to push the mana beyond its natural limits." Killian grunted. "Sounds simple enough." The gruffness in his voice seemed forced, laced with a hint of nervousness. "It won''t be," Kai countered gently. "Think of your Mana heart like a well. It collects energy from the air, but it''s stagnant. Now, imagine" he reached out, placing a hand on Killian''s broad chest, directly over his heart, "Imagine me pouring water into that well." He closed his eyes, focusing on the feeling. "This is mana," Kai continued; his voice a steady guide. "I''m giving it to you, but you need to take control. Feel it flow, feel it fill the well. Now, picture it as swirling the water in the well. Don''t worry about perfect circles, just" Kai gestured with his other hand, tracing a loose, swirling pattern in the air, "Keep it moving, circulating the core." Killian gritted his teeth, concentrating on the warmth spreading within him. Kai knew that he could almost feel a resistance, a pressure building as his heart neared capacity. But there was more to it. He needed to let Killian know everything related to the awakening. He briefly stopped pushing mana and kept his palm over Killians chest. "You felt that? he asked Killian who simply nodded. The process will take longer than that, but it was just a small depiction of how itd be. Now, you need to know that there are seven points," Kai explained, his fingers tapping specific locations on Killian''s torso and limbs. "Vaults. They were always there but considered useless. Now, we believe if you can push the mana towards them and" his voice trailed off, filled with cautious optimism. "Open them," Killian rasped. "That''s what you''re saying, right? If I can force the mana to these Vaults, that''s the awakening?" "Yes," Kai said, the single word heavy with anticipation. "It won''t be easy. Without the natural channels Mages have, it''s like forcing water through cracked rock. But if you can do it, Killian if you can awaken those Vaults, you''ll be something entirely new. Something stronger." Silence descended again, broken only by the ragged rhythm of Killian''s breathing. His eyes remained closed, his entire being focused on what Kai had told him. Kai leaned closer, his eyes locked on Killian''s. "This is important," he said, gravity heavy in his voice. "An Enforcer, it''s... different from a Mage. They feel the world through their mana and amplify themselves with it. This awakening, if it works, will hurt. It will push you harder than any battle you''ve ever fought." Kai pointed one by one at those key points on Killian''s body shoulder blades, both sides of the chest, wrists, a spot just above the navel. It''s a method of awakening that should be sufficient." For the past few days, he had been busy looking through the records, trying to find one mention of Enforcers. When he found nothing, he had become sure that they weren''t mainstream and even if there were Enforcers present, they were in clans that were closed off to the rest of the world. So, he had thought back to his talks with Enforcers. He had a few of them in the Sorcerer''s Tower and he had asked about their method of awakening. After writing down everything he knew, he had made a whole process to awaken. There were a few gaps that he had filled with his knowledge of the human body and it wasn''t foolproof, but it should be enough for Killian to awaken. Okay, I''m ready, Killian said and Kai started the process. - Please leave comments, reviews and follow the fic for more updates!! 31. Awakening The mana transfer wasn''t a gentle trickle, but a forceful process. After Killian''s agreement, he immediately started pushing mana through his palms. Killian''s body tensed, his muscles straining against the sudden influx. Kai hadnt gone through the pain personally, but he knew that it felt like a dam was about to burst within Killian, the pressure building behind his ribs, threatening to shatter bone. Sweat beaded on his forehead. The pain would increase as more mana got transferred and would reach its peak when he would try to move it around his body. Then, Kai''s touch lessened, the intense pressure easing slightly. "Don''t fight it," Kai said aloud; loud enough for Killian to nod briefly. "This is the first step. Your body isn''t used to drawing in ambient mana, so I''m making it used to my mana." He paused, a hint of a chuckle in his voice. "Now, the real work begins." He moved to push needles on different points of his body. They were there to make it easier for Killian to know where to push his mana. He groaned as the needles made their way inside his flesh, but it wasn''t anything more than mild discomfort. "Focus," Kai instructed, his tone suddenly sharp. "The needles feel them. Each one represents a vault, a dormant point of power waiting to be awakened. There are seven of them. Find them. Move the mana into them." If Kai was right, Killian would be sensing a glowing network of pathways, crisscrossing and branching to lead back to the vaults. Everything was linked together with each other. They were closed, but he would still be able to move his mana with enough force. Ah Killian gritted his teeth visibly. The crease in his forehead started pouring sweat buckets down his face. I feel them, he said. Kai nodded. Good. He closed his eyes, knowing the real work was just about to begin. Push the mana towards them. Kai started sending mana in waves. One after another, the intensity of the speed increased. His voice crackled with urgency, Dont try to rush it. If you do, your body might break. In some cases, it might even explode. So, take breaths, feel my mana and slowly push it. Just remember the pain you will go through will be fleeting, but the power will be permanent." He opened his eyes to look at Killian who was visibly struggling. At this point, Killian was the one who had to be strong and resilient. Kai could send as much as mana that it would suck him dry, but if Killian isnt willing to go through the pain to break whats left for him to become an Enforcer, Kais attempts would be futile. Killian frowned, squeezing his eyes shut. A strangled cry escaped his lips as Kai felt the latters muscles spasmed under his touch. The way he shook his head aimlessly felt like he was about to give up. Kais palms continued his efforts as Killian clenched his fists. "Don''t stop!" Kai barked, his voice tight with a mixture of concern and determination. If you do, all the efforts are for nought!" Fueled by a primal instinct for survival and a flicker of defiance, Killian pushed again. The pain intensified, a monstrous vice squeezing his chest, threatening to shatter his bones. He thought, staring at the knight''s expression. Kai quickly closed his eyes and focused on the mana that was rushing through his veins. He knew if he closely focused on the mana he released, he could feel where it was headed. He then inhaled deeply, grabbed Killian''s hands and pushed another wave. It went right inside Killian and started swirling inside his heart. With the point of contact, he observed his insides. Kai was aware of what Killian could see. He should be able to see the vaults now that his focus was heightened. Are the Vaults becoming clearer? Those small chambers in your body? Kai asked, getting a nod from Killian in return. Okay, I believe you are trying to rush mana in all of them. It won''t work like that, so do it one by one. Killians grunts continued to fill the air. With a final, desperate roar, Killian focused on the mana, pushing it down towards one vault. A searing crack echoed in the room, and then relief. The vice loosened, the white-hot agony receding like a tide. In its wake, a warmth bloomed within Killian, a power thrumming beneath his skin. Kai felt all of it. Killian opened his eyes, blinking away the lingering afterimages of pain. A relieved smile broke through the worry etched on Kai''s face. He kept his palm on Killians body while trying to push mana to calm his racing heart. "One down," he said, his voice gruff but lighter. "Six more to go. You feel it? He asked in the heat of the moment. The unlocking it took a lot of pain away, Lord Arzan. It was like almost like a wave of pleasure. Should we continue? he asked, breathlessly. His eyes brightened as he spoke. Killian blinked as the sweat poured down his lashes before swiping it away. Yes, I can feel and sense whats happening inside your body Its a part of the process. So dont worry, we shouldn''t rest until you have all of them unlocked. Kai paused. Lets continue now, he said and closed his eyes. The next hour stretched into an eternity. Each time Killian focused on a new vault, the process repeated. Agony, a blinding flash, then a surge of warmth as the vault yielded. The second and third vaults were harder than the first ones. By the end of the third one, Killian was panting. He was drained, his body a trembling mess. The rooms air was getting heavier as they both continued with the process. The fourth and fifth vaults took more effort from them. Mostly, Kai. He had to drain himself while pushing enough mana for Killian to work on. Killian remained unfazed by Kais doings. One more to go, Kai said while stretching his neck. His bones cracked under pressure, but seeing more vaults opening gave him the go to continue with the awakening. Im ready, Lord Arzan, Killian said quickly. In a heartbeat, Kai closed his eyes and focused on the mana swirling inside his Mana Heart. He started sending pulsating mana through his palms towards Killian. Killian gasped as he realised how strong the last vault was. It was right above his navel, but the area surrounding it was tough to get through. It was almost like attempting to breach a sealed vault with no keyhole in sight. Without a word, Kais mana flowed through Killians body, trying to push through the final vault. The sensations hit him left and right, almost as if he could open his body apart for how strong it was. A scream tore out of him as he pushed the mana, but the vault refused to budge. Kai pushed in more of the mana, emptying his reserves and Killian kept at it, not giving up. Every second was daunting on his body and his shoulders were hunched from the weight of it. But as the final wave of pleasure washed over Killian, a sense of exhilaration coursed through him. Kai opened his eyes. He looked at Killian and saw the shift in his aura. He immediately felt different. Stronger. He suddenly looked a bit taller and the aura he was giving was different than before. It was sturdy, more powerful. He looked up at Kai, a confidence in his gaze that wasnt there before. "I I did it," he rasped, his voice hoarse. Before Kai could say anything, his face turned pale and he fell on his knees as his stomach grumbled. Something came up to his throat and he let it all out. Kai quickly got out of the way. Black liquid like the poison Kai had removed from his body gushed from his mouth, a stinking smell filling the entire room. He kept throwing up for a while before it stopped and dragged his body away from the pool of black liquid. What was that? He looked at the liquid with a strained face. Impurities from your body, he said. That''s normal with every awakening since Enforcers tend to cultivate their bodies, so the body repulses any sort of impurities that have been dormant. Kai offered a weary yet proud smile as he explained. Either way, congratulations. You opened the pathways." Killian nodded, opening and closing his fist before sighing. Just by the theories he knew of, Kai guessed that there would be a lingering pain, a dull ache reminding him of the whole ordeal. But it should pass. A laugh, tinged with disbelief, attracted his attention. "I haven''t seen this clearly since I was a child," Killian said and took long breaths, the words coming out sharp. Kai chuckled. You will see better as you make progress. You don''t know half the things an Enforcer can do." Killian frowned, sharpening his confusion. "What do you mean?" You will learn with time. The power you have awakened, you are at the first step of it. Though, power without control is a recipe for disaster. We need to learn to harness this ability, to channel it into something useful." Killian flexed his hand, awareness tingling in his fingertips. How will I do that? More training? Sarch* The N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Something similar. You can call it training, but the official name is cultivation." Killian, still buzzing from the aftereffects of the awakening process, straightened his back. His eyebrows perked up in confusion. "Cultivation? What does that mean?" "Each vault acts like a wellspring of power," Kai explained, his voice filled with quiet intensity. "By absorbing ambient mana from the environment and nurturing these vaults, you''ll strengthen them, allowing you to access greater levels of power. Right now, youre a First Stage Enforcer. A novice rank. You need to grow to truly show the full might of an Enforcer." Killian frowned, a question gnawing at him. "Does that mean I can do certain things mentioned in the papers that I read before? Like, it feels unbelievable. Kai hesitated for a beat, a flicker of unease crossing his features. "That," he said, his voice carefully neutral, "is a matter for another time. Trust me, Killian, there''s much you don''t know. But for now, focus on cultivating your vaults." He clapped Killian on the shoulder, the gesture oddly forced. Killian nodded, looking at him before something came up to his eyes. Wait, Lord Arzan. How did you even manage to know things in such detail? Where did you get such knowledge from? He asked, his eyes glinting with curiosity. Kai barely managed to stop himself from frowning. When he had talked about things before, he had simply said he had read about it. Even with the Heat stones, people believed he invented them. Maybe they just thought of him as a talented Mage. After all, he was a Duke''s son, but right now, what he had shown Killian and Francis was something that would change the world if it got out. He couldn''t just say he invented it because Killian was never going to fully believe it. There was just so much he could pretend to invent when the previous Arzan was extremely different and hadnt been a Mage for long. If he did, he was sure that Killian and Francis would simply think of him as an imposter which he was, but it might go the wrong way if they thought of him as a demon or a shapeshifter. His identity wasn''t a conversation he wanted to have right now. With all that in mind, Kai replied, I''m sorry, but I don''t think I would be able to answer that. The knowledge didn''t come from me. I did research about it, but the true origin of it is something I can''t disclose right now. I could only assure you that it hadn''t come from a sinful place and is meant to help you. Why not? It''s not the right time. When it comes, I will tell you everything myself. The sincerity in Kai''s voice, however faint, seemed to appease Killian for now as he nodded. His eyes clouded with an understanding. "I believe you will. Anyway, this feels very different, Killian looked at his own body once again. A smile tugged on his lips as he forgot the matters they were discussing previously. I think I need to clear my head for a bit. Everything feels overwhelming He looked at Kai with doubtful eyes. I should go for a run, see how these new legs feel." Kai smiled and pulled him up from the ground. "Be careful. Don''t go using up all your newfound energy in one go." Yes, I hope I dont get an injury. I don''t think I will even if I crash into a wall. I will talk to you soon, Lord Arzan, Killian said, reaching for the door. Kai looked at him from behind, a sigh leaving his lips. He felt his energy low. The awakening went better than he had expected and it was all for good. Although his first reservations about leading an awakeningespecially with an Enforcer, considering his lack of experiencewere evident, Kai had backup plans. Had the awakening failed, he had options ready that would have just made Killian uncomfortable for a day or two at most. To his relief, though, the process went off without a hitch. But nowthinking of negative scenarios wouldn''t do anything. Kai sighed in relief once again, this time, the stress he bottled up left his body. - Please leave your thoughts in the comment section, like the chapter, and follow for more updates! (They''d support the story a lot!) -tc 32. A Miner’s POV again Gareth stood outside an inn and scraped the dust off his calloused hand, the grit clinging stubbornly beneath his fingernails. He had helped transport a merchant''s sandbags onto his carriage, which had stuck to him. The job didn''t pay anything, but it was a chance to make a connection. He hoped that the merchant would get him a job if he kept helping out. Though, there was no guarantee. That''s why he was here. He took a deep breath, calming his nerves and looking over the board. The once-proud image of a miner swinging a pickaxe that was the label of the inn was now faded and indistinct. According to what he knew, it was started by a former miner after he had accumulated enough money. Hence, the name. It also gave him hope that he might just be able to find a job here. Maybe by pity or by being in the same profession the owner of the inn used to be in. He pushed open the creaking door as the scent of stale air washed him. He saw men sitting in the back, their faces filled with lines hunched over their mugs, their laughter filling the establishment. More than half the seats were still empty. He guessed it was because it was still afternoon and because people didn''t have coins to spare. Probably a mix of both. A husky man with a greasy apron grunted in greeting, wiping down a glass with a dirty rag. He recognised him as Anson, the owner of the inn. As he moved towards him, Anson asked. Are you looking for lunch? We have some nice stew and boar meat today. No, Gareth rasped, his voice rough and nervous. He wiped his ragged shirt, trying to ease any wrinkles that showed. I was hoping to find some work here if you have any. I don''t mind anything, he said, looking up at him. Anson frowned, a flicker passing through his eyes. Gareth''s heart fell as he realised he might be rejected, so he quickly continued. I- I used to be a miner. I can work hard for any job you may h-have, he cleared his throat and stared at him. Anson swept his gaze across the room, landing on the men huddled in corners. Their postures were slumped, talking about some girl who worked in a bakery. It was a useful conversation and Gareth himself had been a part of a few of those when he was young. Work, eh? Anson snorted. His voice almost sounded like rocks grinding together. Half these lads here cant cough up a copper for a drink. How do you think I would be able to pay to hire someone? He jerked a thumb towards two men who were arguing over a chipped mug. Those two fools haven''t paid for half a year. Farms aint yielding much this year and the mines They are captured and everyone involved with it is either dead, jobless or left the town. He trailed off. A bitter silence filled the space. Gareth knew everything. He had suffered through it and was there when the bandits had captured the mine. He had barely escaped. He looked back and forth between the rest of the men who hung out at the inn and the owner. He swallowed hard, forcing himself to stand tall. He wanted to give up and return, but this could be his last chance to earn something for his family. He had responsibilities. Im a strong worker. His hands came and clutched together as they were shaking. His voice was steady. I was one of the best with a pickaxe, Ill do whatever it takes. I don''t mind not getting any food until I''m paid. Even just the minimum is okay. I''m just very desperate for something. Anson dropped the dirty cloth that was in his hand and studied Gareth for a long moment, his eyes raking down the dust-caked torn clothes and worn boots. He could sense the owners shift, maybe pity, maybe something else. But the good thing was that it was there. Though, only for a moment before it disappeared and Anson shook his head. Ya know, my son left for other places, he said, shrugging his shoulders. He was like you, a miner who lost his job. He helped out in the inn, but I barely had coins to run this place. So, he left, hoping for better opportunities. You can do that or The miner inwardly sighed but listened. Wait around in the city, go to everyone who might need help. The lord is already giving out food and I know the city would be swimming in dead bodies, if not for that. So, at least you won''t die of hunger. Maybe, try out the guards. There''s rumours the lord wants to recruit more people to protect the place, after the necromancer incident. Yeah? Gareth asked, his eyes widening at the mention of the guards. Yes, go and check with them. You might die out of cold either way. Why not die while fighting a monster? Makes for a good story, Anson said and turned around, moving towards the back where Gareth saw glimpses of the kitchen. Good luck, lad. Miners are tough. You will figure something out. A ghost of a smile touched his lips as he mumbled his thanks. As he turned around and walked, the words of the owner still echoed through his mind. His jaw clenched tight for a moment. Anson was right. Free food was the only thing that kept some semblance of life in this town. Being a guard it wasnt an ideal path, but at least it offered a chance for him to survive, and get a better life. Gareth stepped out onto the dusty street, blinking against the coldness that swept through it. Suddenly, a loud clatter shattered the tense quiet. People who were walking on the street turned towards the carriage that careened down. A man seemed to sit on the back of it, dressed in a guards uniform and bellowed something unintelligible, his voice echoing through the buildings. Gareth only got a look before he faded. He looked at the people who seemed to be talking in hushed tones before following the carriage. He didn''t know what was going on, but it seemed to be important. After all, he had never seen any guards coming on a carriage like this in the streets. He quickened his pace, following the fading sound of the shouting man, drawn towards it like a moth to a flame. As he ran, he realised the carriage was heading towards the public square and took to the alleys. The long narrow tunnels were perfect for him to cover long distances in a short time. He kept his pace up and after a few turns, he found himself in a wide street. The carriage was standing in the distance, right in front of the square and a large crowd seemed to have gathered up. It was a crowd mixed with all sorts of people and even those who were inside their houses surged forward. A collective gasp escaped their lips as they all looked at the men on the carriage and what they were saying. Gareth moved to stand at the end of the crowd, using his height to have a good view of the guard. "Hear me, hear me!" the guard roared, his voice tinged with theatrical flourish. "By decree of Lord Arzan himself, a recruitment drive for the esteemed position of Special Guards commences this very week! You must have heard rumours And folks, theyre right!" A ripple of whispers ran through the people. They didnt shout or show any emotions, but all of them seemed to be in doubt. Gareth remained rooted to the spot, his brow furrowed in scepticism like the others. Special Guard? What kind of position was this? What was so special about guards? The guard, oblivious to the confusion, continued his spiel, his voice going a notch higher. "Work and train under the illustrious Knight Killian himself! Hone your skills, serve your lord, and earn a handsome wage five gold coins a month! Register now!" The words echoed in Gareth''s mind. Another ripple went through the crowd as they whispered. A few people even rub their ears in case they heard wrong. Five gold coins could buy a meal three times a day, a new pair of boots, clothes and after all that, they were enough to save a bit for the future. Gareth couldn''t help but imagine getting that much money every month. But reason quickly doused the embers of his optimism. He was a miner, his hands rough and calloused from years of wielding a pickaxe. Combat? He knew the sting of a misplaced swing, the ache of exhaustion after a long shift, but the thrill of battle and fighting against someone? A wry smile tugged at the corner of his lips. He wouldn''t be winning any swordsmanship awards anytime soon. He glanced around him, taking in the scene. Men, some younger, some older, all bore the same hopeful glint in their eyes. They surged forward, pushing and shoving, eager to be the first to register. Come forward! You, you and you! The guard yelled once again. You do not need prior combat knowledge to register! One can start without it if they fulfil the requirements! What?! What sort of requirements are we on about? An overweight man asked from the crowd. The guard clicked his tongue. You won''t know yet. Lord Arzan will decide it personally. If you believe you have guts and potential, you will qualify. Remember, registration is free. There''s no fee. If you believe you can do it, come forward and sign up. Gareth couldn''t believe his ears for a second. If there was no combat experience required, maybe he could try? He looked around himself and his heart fell once more. The words from the guards had made even more people move to register, pushing and pulling each other to get to the front. Looking back, he saw even more men coming in. The carriage had announced the opening of job recruitment in the whole city and it had attracted a lot of attention. Seeing so many people, Gareth hesitated. Would he be able to compete with them? Doubt gnawed at him, a persistent voice whispering of failure. Then, a memory surfaced, a warm hand calloused like his own resting on his shoulder. His father''s voice echoed in his ears, "Whatever chances you don''t take, son, some other guy takes it and hits it rich." It was something his father used to say a lot. Over and over again. It was because he had lost out on an opportunity to apprentice under a merchant. After all, he had been too scared to go meet him. Some other guy had and ten years later, his father was working in a mine owned by him. His jaw clenched tight. He may not be a knight, but he wasn''t a coward either. He had gone down to iron mines and worked for hours every day. He didn''t want that sort of life. Five gold coins? Five gold coins were worth a shot at a better life. Taking a deep breath, he calmed himself down. He had his wife at home. He needed to return with good news. If not that, then at least some hope of good news. Gareth took a step forward, mingling with the men who wanted to take a chance just like him. Come this way! Come in line! The guard yelled. A few others moved to straighten the crowd in a line and to control anyone who was trying to break it. He stood behind the line waiting for his turn patiently. *** The tall man in front of him turned around. He recognized who he wasC Old Man Clement, a man who lived on the same street as him. He was kind and gentle and someone who always looked out for the people in the neighbourhood. But ever since the season Frosania started, things have been tough. Along with everyone else in the city, Clement, too, could barely look after himself and his family. He had lost his job because his employer had left the city, and things had been rough from what he heard of his family. Sar?h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. When their eyes met, they exchanged a hesitant nod, a silent acknowledgement of their shared desperation and a glimmer of hope. Are you trying to get in with the guards too? Clement questioned. Gareth nodded. Just like you. But, I thought you applied to work at the bar down the street, he paused for a moment. Unlike me, you know a variety of skills, so I thought you would be able to get a job quite easily. Clement sighed. He smacked his lips, That place is dead. Been dead for months. The owner didn''t have money to pay and as for my skills, no one thinks they are worthy enough to pay for it. Hence, I''m here. Gareth nodded as the line moved. He gave a slight pat on his back. I hope the gods are looking upon you. Good luck. The latter smiled briefly. You too. Good things are bound to happen. Especially with Lord Arzan distributing food to the needy I believe something is about to change. Gareth could only nod to his words. The line slowly snaked its way towards the training grounds, a large, dusty expanse where figures clad in gleaming armour sparred and practised formations. Along with the people who were in the line, everyone seemed to be tense and nervous. Even the guards who were practising with their weapons seemed to hold a sense of tension in their shoulders. He thought to himself as he looked at where they were headed. Inside, a single room served as the testing ground. Men entered, one by one, disappearing behind a thick curtain. A few emerged moments later, their faces etched with disappointment. Gareth''s heart hammered a frantic rhythm against his ribs with each dejected figure. Then, something strange happened. A man entered the room, but unlike the others, he didn''t come back out. Minutes stretched, a cold knot settling in his stomach. Everyone waited and a few talked in hushed whispers. The guards called in other people meanwhile as the testing dragged on even if the man didn''t come back. After a brief twenty minutes, Clement walked out of the curtain with his lips pursed tightly, the old man didnt even share a glance, but continued to walk away. He seemed disappointed and Gareth didn''t have to think twice about the results. But now, it was his turn. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for whatever awaited him on the other side of the curtain. Stepping inside, he found himself facing a richly furnished room. Two figures stood before him a stern-faced man in a crimson cloak which he identified as Lord Arzan and a knight clad in gleaming silver armour whom he knew as Knight Killian. Lord Arzan''s gaze was stern as he moved his eyes onto him while Knight Killian simply stood in the back, but the pressure coming off him daunted his shoulders. Gareth''s heart lurched. He bowed clumsily, his calloused hand brushing his thigh in a nervous gesture. "Gareth of Veralt City," he stammered, his voice rough with disuse. Lord Arzan gave him a curt nod. "At ease, Gareth." He gestured towards a wooden chair. "Please, sit." He hesitated at the polite language, but with a murmured thanks, he lowered himself onto the edge, muscles bunched in anticipation. Lord Arzan surprised him further by walking forward and placing a hand on each of his shoulders. His touch was surprisingly warm. A strange sensation washed over him then, a tingling warmth that spread through his body like a wave. It wasn''t pain, exactly, but a prickling, buzzing sensation that made him want to twitch his limbs in protest. Yet, a strange calmness settled over him just as soon. The feeling intensified for a moment, then receded as quickly as it came. Gareth blinked, his gaze darting between Lord Arzan and Knight Killian. "What what was that?" he managed to ask, his voice barely a whisper. Lord Arzan''s smile was both kind and knowing, he looked at the knight and then at Gareth. The test and you should be happy to know that you passed," he said. "Welcome to the Special guards, Gareth!" 33. Recruits and Golems The recruitment continued for the next few days as Kai and Killian looked for more Enforcers. In the beginning, a steady stream of recruits lined up and walked through the makeshift processing area. Killian ushered men forward; men who lived in the city and a few smaller areas outside the city. The result was unsurprising, some approached him with bravado, chests puffed out and muscles tensed. Others shuffled in nervously, their eyes avoiding eye contact with Killian. He wanted to get as many men tested as possible, but it wasnt possible with those who didnt volunteer. He also recruited ordinary men who didn''t really have the necessary organs to become an Enforcer but were in good shape to replace the soldiers they had lost in the battle with the necromancer. As the evening was approaching, Killian straightened his back. Kai looked around and saw how the line had dwindled to a trickle. The search for the Enforcers had been successful with them finding a few, but they hadn''t found any Mages. It was quite disappointing after going through all the people and testing if they had the necessary organs. But it was understandable. Mages were usually rare by the numbers and in a city like this, there might be one or two. Additionally, the mass migration that has been happening recently could be why they couldnt find any Mages. Either way, in the end, he got what he wanted. He walked towards a man, one of the volunteers, who was seated with his hands on his legs. He was covered with dust and seemed as if he hadnt had a proper meal in ages. His nervousness was clear as daylight as he fidgeted with his fingers. Kai kept his palms over his shoulders and started pushing a very small amount of mana through, just enough to see if he had the necessary organs. In a blink, he realised that the man was another regular volunteer. He didnt have the necessary organs to become an Enforcer. He shook his head and took a step back. Killian walked up from behind and relayed the bad news to the man. His eyes immediately fell to the floor as he stood up. T-thank you, he mumbled disheartedly and walked back from the curtains. Before the man could leave, Kai called out, If you are from the nearby settlements around the city, wait till tomorrow and you should get the food when we distribute it. The man looked at Kai and nodded. Thank you, Lord Arzan. Then, he disappeared beyond the curtains. As the curtains opened, Kai saw how there was no one left. Thats all of the volunteers who came forward, Lord Arzan, Killian said as if he was reporting it to him. Kai nodded. He looked in between the people they had recruited. They stood outside the room, away from the gaze of the volunteers, but he could see them from where he was seated. There were four Enforcers that they had gotten and all of them seemed like the perfect replacement for the fallen guards. At least in strength. Killian, ask them all to come in and see if Francis is free enough to join us too, Kai said and waited for Killian to take action. With a curt nod to Kai, he walked towards the four people who got selected. They were aimlessly standing by the side, sipping on the tea Kai had ordered to give them. Kai sat back, while one leg rested over the other. The men slowly walked inside the room, followed by Killian and Francis. As soon as they walked in, they bowed in respect. They didnt utter a word until Kai spoke, but he observed them before the latter could speak. Four men. An eager-looking young man who was barely a teen, two miners who looked to be in their mid-twenties and one hunter who seemed to be in his late thirties. All of them looked ordinary with blonde hair and patches of beard on their faces. Out of all of them, only the young man looked frail. The rest of them had muscles and kept in shape compared to the ordinary man, possibly due to the nature of their jobs. Kai nodded curtly. Alright, you lot. Four of you he pointed at the men. From tomorrow, you will be directly training under Knight Killian. The men nodded excitedly. Their confused and nervous faces were no longer there, replaced with hopeful smiles. Let''s get acquainted. One by one, tell us who you are and why you decided to join. Be honest or there will be repercussions," Kai said, giving a warning in the end. He didn''t want anyone lying about their reasons to join when it was pretty clear. A burly miner cleared his throat. He was easily the tallest among them, rivalling Killian. "Bord, Lord Arzan. As the mines shut down, figured this was better than nothing. No other job is willing to pay enough to survive." His voice rumbled, deep and gravelly. The younger miner, wiping his hand on his trousers, piped up next. "Gareth, Your Lordship. Same as Bord. Just want to feed my family." He offered a shy smile but quickly stepped back. The hunter, his gaze still flickering around the room, spoke next. My name is Bran. I lost my hunting partner a few months back and it had been tough since then and the promise of earning good coin brought me here. Also, I was grateful to you." Grateful? Yes, my child nearly died out of hunger a month back, but the soup you distributed saved her life. I wanted to repay you in some way and this seemed like a good opportunity. Kai smiled, finding no deceit in his words. How''s your child now? She''s healthy by the grace of gods. Good. He turned towards the last man, prompting him to speak. He was the teen who had been fidgeting nervously all this time. His thick eyebrows knitted together. I-Im Nelson. I was an apprentice cook but didn''t like it too much. The pay was bad and I didn''t have enough money to start my own restaurant, so when I heard about the announcement, I decided to try my luck. Kai nodded at each introduction, making a mental note of their names and demeanours. "Good. You''ll all find this life different, but I assure you, it has its rewards. Your families will be moved to the guard quarters, with proper food and Heat stones. It''ll be a far cry from living in your current home and struggling for food. Francis here will settle you all in." He looked towards him and he gave a confident nod. A flicker of relief crossed Bord and Gareth''s faces. Nelson seemed more contemplative, while Bran remained stoic. "Now," Kai leaned forward, his voice dropping low, "There''s more. We have plans for you all. Plans to give you abilities beyond the ken of ordinary men. The same power as Mages," he said, watching their eyes widen in surprise and wonder. A murmur of questions rippled through the group. "Mages?" Bord rumbled, his brow furrowed. "But those are" "Rare," Bran finished for him, his voice laced with a hint of awe. Kai held up a hand, silencing their questions. "I understand your confusion. Killian will brief you on the details later. But before we get to that, there''s a crucial step. Enforcers, as you''ll be called, typically undergo months of gruelling physical training before even attempting to awaken their vaults. He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "It''s a delicate process. The human body can only withstand so much pressure. Many don''t survive the awakening." A collective gasp escaped the recruits. The color drained from Gareth''s face, while Bran''s hand tightened around his other hand knuckles whitening in the process. Even Nelson''s eyes flickered with nervous energy. "But dont be scared," Kai continued; his voice firm yet reassuring. "That''s where I come in. My methods are different. With my help, you''ll be ready to attempt the awakening in a month. A fraction of the usual time." Kai saw how they were trying to grasp the situation. It was a given that they mostly didnt understand what he was trying to explain. Especially knowing how Killian took time until the awakening to truly figure out what an Enforcer is. He shot a pointed look at Killian, who simply shrugged. "Knight Killian here is already a walking testament to peak physical conditioning. You lot, however," his gaze swept across their faces, "have some work to do." Bord and Gareth visibly gulped, while Nelson straightened his shoulder. Bran remained impassive, but a glint of something akin to hope flickered in his eyes. Enforcers? I have never heard the term before, Bran asked. Kai could tell they were still thinking about all the information that he lay in front of them. But well it wasnt time to go into depth. Yes, Enforcers. Once again, Knight Killian will be the one to explain who you truly are, and what your true potential is. So, be patient. Bran nodded, taking a small step back. Bord cleared his throat. "So, when does this training begin, Lord Arzan?" Killian stepped forward. "Sunrise tomorrow," he announced. "The Lord himself will be joining us for the first session." All the four faces flashed one look surprised. Nelson faintly nodded, while Gareths frown deepened. Kai smiled at them and gave a curt nod. Hope to see you all tomorrow. Get settled for the evening, he said and walked out of the small room. *** Killian bellowed, Get ready! This was the first round they were about to run. Killian, who had already finished his morning workouts, urged the newly recruited guards. Kai also stood next to them. In three Two Run! Hurry! His commanding voice boomed throughout the ground. Kai surged forward alongside Bord, Gareth, Nelson and Bran. They were right behind the guards who were normally training at this hour. The morning cold wind hit Kais face. His feet fastened in an attempt to match the pace of the guards who were right in front of them but the initial burst of enthusiasm quickly gave way to burning lungs and pounding in his heart. His muscles started screaming in protest, and all the while the legs threatened to give up. But Kai didnt want to be the first to falter. He gritted his teeth and pushed himself harder with each stride. The run around the perimeter of the grounds was just the appetiser. Kais muscle memory almost made him cast a spell, to ease the pain and accelerate the process. But he barely stopped himself from doing it. His mind served him with more spells like [Soothe] and [Invigorate] but spells could be a double-edged sword in the long term, often leaving the user too reliant on them. Training his body naturally, however gruelling, was the safer, more sustainable option. Arzans body needs to be more in shape and thats what he should do. As he successfully finished the third round, he looked at the trainees. The four men mirrored his expression. For his enthusiasm, even they were going on for their reasons. Sar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Halt! The fourth round came to a halt when they all jogged down and eased up their speed. Killians voice gathered all their attention. Now, lets get onto drills! Lord Arzan, you can begin the training regime we discussed yesterday! Kai nodded and started jogging to the side of the ground. He was panting, his heartbeat ready to thrum out of his body. Four of you! I will give you a drill to practise for seven sundowns! Get over here! Guards, you know what to do! Kai heard Killians voice from behind. He was hasting the process so that the exhaustion would take time to catch up after all the running. Kai got to a place where he wouldnt be disturbed by the guards training but also wasnt too far from Killian. He started with the push-ups, pull-ups, lunges and a series of core exercises Killian had given him. In a way, every workout was a struggle for him. His body wasnt accustomed to such exertion, it started rebelling against his own will. He continued his workout with heavy breaths but was conscious of his every move. As he got to the core workouts, sweat started dripping from his eyes as if he was crying, stinging his vision. His muscles trembled and his lungs burned with every breath. But he had some more to go. The core workouts got harder every day as he increased the amount of each workout. Kai sprawled on the ground as he finished his last exercise. He gasped for air, the sweat dripping from his face like a leaky faucet. He got to his knees while his hands were on his thighs, trying to catch his breath. His eyes went across the field. The enticing aroma filled the air. The maids handed over bowls of soup to all the guards. It was the soup that Kai had written the recipe for. A soup made of herbs that would provide energy and warmth after exercise. A fairly common thing in his past life. He saw Killian, his face etched with a rare seriousness, strode up to him. "Not bad, Lord Arzan," he rumbled, a hint of grudging respect in his voice. "I have to admit, I was surprised you kept up." Kai managed a chuckle, though it came out more like a wheeze. "Just... building character, Killian. Nothing to it." "Character, eh?" Killian snorted. "Well, you''ll need plenty more of it in the coming weeks. But better than the first day," he conceded, "you did well." Kai nodded, knowing he was telling the truth. "Now, about weapons training," Kai began, his voice surprisingly firm. "I''d like to start as soon as possible." Killian studied him for a moment. Then, a slow smile spread across his face. "Alright, Lord Arzan," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of satisfaction. "Looks like I''ll have the pleasure of personally training you with weapons." It was visible that Killian was in a good mood after all the training. His energy was radiating after the awakening. *** Kai was in his room. Seated in his usual position on the ground, his eyes were closed. He inhaled a good amount of mana, and let it flow inside his body. Intentionally, he let it circle his Mana Heart to a rhythm. He counted the circles and started all over again, thinking of increasing the count gradually. His thoughts started shifting from his Mana Heart to the problems that were in front of him. It would take a few months before he could reach the next circle. With his physical training, he would be stronger. But it felt like an eternity, especially when there was Mage Actra. For a few reasons, he wanted to deal with Actra faster. He didn''t like the feeling of someone who could be dangerous to him living in the same place. But it isnt possible. Kai mused and let out a frustrated sigh. He needed more information to confirm his thoughts about Mage Actra. He needed proof of his wrongdoings. Most importantly, he needed to understand the extent of his power and the potential backing he might have. Mages, as Kai knew, had a considerable amount of authority. They were treated as chickens who lay golden eggs, and he was sure that Actra had backings that went far beyond the Duke. Even if he assumed he had tried to kill him due to his brother, an investigation would happen and he won''t be able to get away. So it made perfect sense for him to have more than one card to help him. But who? Kai squeezed his eyes shut. These questions would be unanswered for quite some time. The exhaustion of the day finally started catching up, a dull ache in his muscles, but his mind had restless energy. He couldnt do anything physically now, but He saw the worn leather-bound book The Book on Golems. Pulling it up again, he skimmed through the pages. He had already finished reading the book the night before. He had been reading it before bed every day while making his notes. It hasnt been difficult as his interest in golems started increasing with every read. His eyes fell on the notes that were inside the book. Three parts. Thats what he understood. The golem creation was divided into three parts. First came the vessel: sculpting a form from clay, stone, iron any material capable of channelling mana. Next, shaping: meticulously crafting the wanted size and form, imbuing the vessel with the basic functions of movement. Finally, the most crucial stepthe core. The core was the golem''s lifeblood, a receptacle for channelled mana mixed with monster parts, a miniature replica of a Mana Heart in some ways. Just like potion brewing, it was an intricate art form, a dance between raw materials and the caster''s intent. Higher-level golems, the book alluded to, could even be imbued with sentience, a feat far beyond Kai''s current capabilities. He reached for a small pouch that was tucked beneath his cot. It was the clay that he asked Claire to collect before. He pulled it out from the pouch and kept it on the table. The texts descriptions were in his mind as if written in clear stone. He moulded the clay, imbuing it with basic principles of movement. Thats what was mentioned. His hands twisted and his palms grabbed the clay at different angles. The next hour blurred. At first, the clay was pliable, but with each try, the clay turned into something completely else. He used mana to hold it together, but his shaping skills were bad and the knight he was trying to make would instead look like a hybrid between a dog and a frog. His magic wasnt flowing the way he wanted, and even the notes he gathered started getting jumbled in the process of creating the mould. Kai sighed. The clay started melting into a pulp of nothingness. He was using the force of magic a bit stronger than he intended. 34. One debt paid, another to be settled (1) It had been a month since the necromancer was killed. Kai, Killian and Francis were busy doing their own things. Kai had conducted more trials. Not more for the general population, but for the guards they already had. Each of them had undergone a test and the results had given them two more candidates to become Enforcers. One of them was named Henry, a guard Kai had never interacted with before and the second was someone familiar Feroy. He had already seen his capabilities in the battle against the necromancer, so it was a pleasant surprise. Killian constantly had to make sure the guards were practising and continuing the training regime he had created for them. Even a days setback would make it harder for him to train the newly recruited Enforcers. Even if two of them were trained to a certain degree, the others left a lot to be desired. Francis was given a few jobs to take care of. He tried to take Kais suggestions and got himself busy with the food distribution. Kai knew that the small bowl of soup every person in the city received was not so small for them. The men who walked in as volunteers for the recruitment constantly thanked Lord Arzan for giving them the food they received. sea??h th novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kais heart warmed as they thanked him and explained how it helped their families survive. In the end, even though the food distribution was for the commoners to survive the winter and get his reputation to turn for the better, the feeling of doing good exceeded his expectations. Apart from checking up and handling matters related to the food distribution, Francis had to keep an eye on Malden and the distribution of Heat stones. The Heat stones were being distributed for different prices. The commoners received the Heat stones for a cheaper price, and it varied greatly for wealthy merchants and nobles. The two latter consumers created profits for them to pay off the debts. The recent news Malden brought was something that even Kai hadnt expected. When Francis read what Malden had sent, his eyes widened with his mouth. He clutched the paper tightly and reread the same words he did before aloud. .a grateful noble family not only endorsed Heat stones but even coughed up 1,000 gold for personalised ones for the entire household. Two weeks later, Malden sent another letter. It wasn''t a proclamation of another noble or merchant family endorsing the Heat stones, but news everyone was keenly waiting for. We have gotten enough money to pay off the debt! Most of the Heat stones had been sold! It was something that took something heavy off the back of Kai. A debt he had never taken, but had to pay off, but with the money collected from it, he could finally look forward to his plans. *** The frosty morning wasnt anything peaceful or silent for Kai. The clang of steel echoed through the yard and rang in his ears. Kai gripped a practice spear that felt oddly comfortable in his hand and parried a blow from Killians blunted sword. Right now, they were in a practice spar. Out of all the weapons he had to choose, Kai had decided on the spear. A sword or a rapier was okay, but a spear gave him the ability to put distance between his enemy and strike at the right time. A major reason was also because it just felt right in his hands. Kai felt sweat trickling down his forehead, but he shifted his focus to the attacks Killian launched. The spear became a blur as he jabbed and thrust, mimicking the fighting style he learnt after spending hours examining how Killian showed it. The latter mirrored Kais movements with practised ease. His sword deflected each of Kais attempts. When Kai moved on his right side, Killian would quickly mirror it and avoid attack. And when he tried to change the direction of his strike, Killian would easily slide back and parry it, showing his mastery. He would quickly adapt to Kais rookie movements and even try to attack Kai back using different small tricks. The fight thus continued. By the latter end of it, frustration started rising in Kais mind. His progress was showing, but Killian was on another level. If he had used his spells, the fight would be over in an instant. But for their spars, he had refrained from it. Internally, he cursed himself for never learning a few tricks for close combat. Argh! Taking a moment to think, Kai moved around his spear and aimed for his right shoulder, but twisted the spear to go for the left. It hit, momentarily distracting him. He kept the momentum up and aimed at Killian''s abs, but he feinted, taking control of the pace. As Kai missed his next two strikes, Killian took that moment and capitalised on the opening, his sword flashing out in a deceptive arc that caught Kais spear shaft near the base. Kais arm jolted back in pain, the spear clattering to the ground. Umph! Kai grabbed the hilt of Killians sword. It was a desperate lunge to disarm him. But it seemed Killian anticipated the move. He smoothly twisted the sword and sent Kai sprawling backwards. Kai landed hard, the wind momentarily knocking out of him. Killian walked towards Kai and extended his hand. Not bad, Lord Arzan. The amusement was evident in his voice but tinged with a hint of respect. Your spear work is definitely improving, but remember, a weapon is only an extension of the warrior. You also did well with lunging after losing your weapon. In a battle, that might be a desperate final attempt, but most warriors would die either way if they don''t have their weapons. Kai grasped Killians hand and hauled himself to his feet. Thanks, he said in a shaky voice. This was the third fight theyd been training and he was almost out of his breath. He had been learning well, but it wasn''t at a level where he could use it in real combat. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his ragged breathing before changing the subject. "How are the others?" Killian grunted, remembering their state. "Recovering. Awakening''s a harsh mistress. They all went through it yesterday, but the pressure" He shook his head. "Even with your... assistance, it took a toll on them." Kai winced. The awakening process was brutal. They had been training for over a month for it, but still, it had been too much for their bodies. He couldn''t help but feel a pang of worry for the new recruits. He helped them to awaken yesterday but since the pressure was high, a lot of them passed out even though it was a success. Killian chuckled. "Don''t worry, Lord Arzan. They fainted, not crumbled to dust. They''ll wake up with magical hangovers, but their dormant abilities are now awakened." Kai nodded. Yeah, I know. Train them well today, because there might be a test. He got to his feet and started shrugging off his clothes. What test? Killian started by asking but a maid who came running abruptly halted their talk. Lord Arzan Knight Killian The maid called them out. Administrator Francis asked me to relay the message that Malden is in the castle, awaiting your presence. Killians eyes immediately came to Kai. He nodded. Lets head down, then. Kai stood up. *** A wave of tiredness washed over Kai as he entered the room where Malden had settled. It was Franciss office room and had enough space for everyone to sit and discuss. Both Kai and Killian walked in as Francis and Malden bowed to him. He stretched his arms over his head and started feeling his body move under pain. The training session with Killian had pushed him to his limits, and every muscle in his body ached. Malden, however, looked like the picture of prosperity. Gone were the cheap, threadbare merchant clothes and furrowed brow; in their place, a well-tailored tunic and a gold chain gleamed around his neck. Kai looked at his new appearance for a second as Malden sensed his presence. "Lord Arzan!" Malden boomed, a jovial smile spreading across his face. "Come in, come in. You look like you could use a rest." He gestured towards a wooden chair. Kai chuckled, collapsing into the chair with a sigh. "You could say that, Malden. Killian certainly put me through my paces." "Ah, a training session with Knight Killian," Malden chuckled, his eyes twinkling as he glanced at Killian. Kai was sure that he had already gotten information about his training from Francis, but he still acted like he was hearing it for the first time. "Well, knowing how powerful you are as a Mage, I''m pretty sure some exercise would take your fighting prowess to the next level. Enough about it, Kai said, waving his hand. Tell me everything about the sales. I can see you have greatly benefited from it. Malden tapped the golden chain around his neck with a sly grin. It''s all your grace, my lord. As for sales, I have prepared a note of every single transaction for you to check. I think you would be happy with what my small merchant company has achieved. Let''s see then. Malden slapped a thick ledger onto the table, the sound echoing in the room. "Over seventy percent of these transactions are for the ''improved'' Heat stones we sold to nobles." Kai opened the ledger, his eyes widening in surprise. The nobles, it seemed, were easily fooled by size. They''d purchased the regular Heat stones, believing them to be a superior model simply because they were larger and more ornate. Maybe they warmed the room a bit faster, but there was not a lot of difference between them and the regular model. A pang of guilt flickered within him as he wondered how his master would have reacted to it, but it was quickly overshadowed by the sheer volume of gold amassed. 13,000 gold coins sat neatly documented in the ledger, way more than what he had predicted. "You did well, Malden," Kai finally admitted, a hint of admiration in his voice. "This is a significant amount of coin." Malden puffed out his chest, a prideful glint in his eyes. "Just doing my part, Lord Arzan. Just doing my part. And don''t worry about a thing. I''ve kept meticulous records of every transaction, down to the last copper piece. Transparency is key, wouldn''t you agree?" Kai nodded, a genuine smile gracing his lips. A glint of understanding passed between Kai and Francis as they made eye contact. Without a word, Kais lips curved into a sly smile. "Francis," he began, his voice low but firm, Have you prepared what I requested a month ago?" Francis, ever the stoic presence, inclined his head in a single, curt nod. A flicker of curiosity flickered in Killian''s eyes, while Malden''s brow furrowed in confusion. "Excellent," Kai said, a hint of excitement lacing his tone. "Then Killian, gather a good number of guards. If any of the six are awake and coherent, bring them along too. We''re going on an exercise." Killian''s confusion deepened, his gaze darting between Kai and Francis. "An exercise? What kind of exercise?" Kai smiled. "Consider it a test. A test of both their abilities and ours. Details will have to wait until we arrive. Trust me, this little excursion will be highly entertaining." *** Within the opulent confines of the Tradeheart Merchant Company headquarters, Galvan, the silver-tongued merchant paced before a richly adorned desk, his voice laced with frustration. Across the desk sat Erasmus Thorne, the head of Tradeheart. A man in his late fifties, Erasmus sat confidently. His sharp features were framed by a mane of iron-grey hair, and his cold blue eyes radiated a calculating glint. He was obese, and with his hands placed on the table, he gave off an aura of authority. "Lord Arzan''s return has thrown a wrench in our plans, wouldn''t you say, sir?" Galvan pressed, his voice tight. "Public opinion has shifted dramatically. He''s not just a scapegoat anymore; he''s a hero who vanquished a necromancer and the messiah for the poor. Even his awakening as a Mage has deterred our plans greatly." Erasmus scoffed; a dismissive sound that echoed in the opulent office. "A single victory does not erase his past failures, Galvan. The public is fickle. They''ll forget his heroics soon enough, especially when the debts come due." "But with the Heat stones," Galvan began, his voice laced with concern. "They''re generating a substantial income for the city. It''s only a matter of time before they''re able to pay us back." Erasmus leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. A cruel smile played on his lips. "There will always be ways, Galvan. We just have to be creative. Besides, the farmlands remain the key. Once we secure those, the city''s financial future will be firmly in our grasp." Galvan bit his lip, a flicker of unease crossing his features. While he had initially embraced the company''s plan to exploit the city''s desperation, Lord Arzans return and the recent events had sown seeds of doubt. I don''t think you are Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a knock on the ornately carved oak door. A young clerk, his face pale with apprehension, peeked into the room. "Boss," he stammered, "there are guards outside. A large contingent, led by Lord Arzan himself." Erasmus''s smile faltered for a brief moment, but he quickly regained his composure. Galvan looked as apprehended as him. What does he want? Erasmus asked. I-I don''t know. Okay, show them in. I will meet them personally. He frowned, giving a look to Galvan and closing his eyes. before leaning forward and adjusting the golden bracelet that was on his wrist. 35. One debt paid, another to be settled (2) Kai was at the forefront of the guards. The Tradeheart Merchant Company''s heavy oak doors opened with a groan. Kai stepped forward, his eyes fixed on the interior of the building. A gaggle of guards, wearing their uniform and armed with short swords came forward from behind a nearby pillar. Their faces showed fear and defiance. The guards were composed of Bord and Feroy since the rest of the Enforcers were taking a rest due to the awakening. The four others were back in the castle recovering from fainting but Killian made sure to tag along with the duo who were awake and still processing what their body underwent. Kai looked at the muscular man with a thick beard who stepped forward, brandishing his sword. "Halt!" he yelled, his voice cracking slightly. "This is private property. State your business or leave!" Kai stopped, a sardonic smile playing on his lips. He scanned the guards, their ill-fitting uniforms and mismatched weaponry, a stark contrast to his well-trained guards. He knew most of them were just hired low-level mercenaries since the Tradeheart merchant company branch in Veralt City wasn''t big enough for proper guards. But if there were a way they could walk inside without creating a scene, that would make things much easier for him. "Tell your men to stand down," Kai said, his voice calm but firm. "This is an official visit. We''re here to see Erasmus Thorne." The bearded guard puffed out his chest, trying to appear intimidating. "Orders are orders. You can''t just waltz in here with an army." Kai''s smile evaporated. His gaze turned cold. "These are city guards, keeping the citizens safe. If you persist in obstructing us, I will consider it a threat and be forced to act accordingly. Don''t you know me? I''m the Lord of the city. Put your voice down or you will be taken into custody." A ripple of unease passed through the Tradeheart guards. They looked at each other in confusion and nervousness and a few of them whispered among themselves. If they were in the city for long, they knew who Kai was. Sadly, they didn''t seem to budge. No, we still cant allow you to head inside. Until were given a different order, we wont allow you to go inside, the security guard that was to the front said. Kai exchanged glances with Killian. It was time to put all their training into practice. Kai nodded. Make space for us. Guards, Killian yelled and lunged forward. The security guard pushed Killian back or at least he tried to. Killian grabbed both of his wrists and twisted it around, making the sword slip out of his grasp. It happened in a brief moment, the rest of the security guards threw themselves forward swords hanging in the air. Kai stayed back with Francis and another guard who held a chest in his hands. All of them took in the sight of the rough fight. Bran had his arm around a security guard''s neck, while the latter tried his best to break free. With Brans free hand, he grabbed the sword that was hanging from the securitys hand and wrapped his hand around it. With a swift move, he twisted his body and threw him stumbling through the wall before looking at his hands, like he was admiring his newfound strength. Kais eyes then shifted to Bord, who was struggling with getting the upper hand with another security guard. The man Bord fought was bigger than him but showed no particular skills. He just attacked with a series of chaotic swings. Although it looked like Bord was struggling, after observing for a while, Kai knew that he was simply waiting for an opening. The security man had Bord in an arm lock, while their weapons clashed against each other. But over time, Bords energy remained the same. The opponent, however, started getting tired. His hands started shaking, along with his feet due to the position they were in rather odd, and uncomfortable with their feet wide apart. Kais eyes squinted as he stared at the arm lock loosening for a brief moment. Bord pressed on his forearm and pushed him away in a swift notion. Turning around, the security guard bent and clung to his arm where Bord took the chance to kick him in the face with his knees. The man stumbled back and fell to the floor. Bord took that moment to cut through his ankle, earning a piercing shout from him. In the middle of the scene, Killian swooped a man on his shoulders and slumped on the ground with a big thud, earning a few head turns. Kai watched how he skillfully pressed his leg on the mans chest, keeping him on the ground while the latters arm was locked as Killian stretched it upwards. Ahhhhh!! The guy screamed in pain, tears streaming down his face. Killian drew blood all over his wrists from his sword and pushed him to the ground, letting him clutch his hand and cry. He immediately went and started handling another security guard. The castle guards were already handling the rest of the security guards and Killians eyes were focused on the guards he trained. He was barking orders left and right. The number of guards who stayed and fought became lower. Their main intention wasnt to kill anyone but to make them wounded enough so that they wouldnt be a problem when they were inside. Twenty minutes passed by. The guards of the Tradeheart Merchant company were lying on the floor, clutching their arms and legs. Most were bleeding, while others certainly had bone and muscle fractures from the fight. Kai stepped up from behind, passing all those who were on the ground. The city guards slowly fell behind. His gaze swept across the scene. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He was in the reception area and other than the guards, there were quite a few huddled around. Clerks, low-level merchants and other servants were in the corner, looking in between the security guards they had beaten and Kai. They didn''t seem to be important enough and froze when they saw the small army moving in. Kai''s eyes met one of the merchants for a fleeting moment. Then, his voice cut through the stunned silence. "Excuse me," he said, his tone firm but polite, "Could someone point me towards the office of Erasmus Thorne?" The question hung in the air. A young clerk, no older than sixteen, his face pale with a mixture of fear and curiosity, hesitantly stepped forward. "U-upstairs, Lord Arzan," he stammered, pointing towards a grand staircase at the back of the room. Kai inclined his head in acknowledgement, a flare of appreciation crossing his features. He gestured for Killian and his guards to follow, their footsteps echoing on the polished marble floor as they ascended the stairs. The atmosphere changed drastically as they reached the upper floor. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, and the muted thrum of conversation filtered through a set of double doors at the end of the hallway. They took the steps and started marching upstairs. When they reached, a large oak door stood, leading to what he guessed was the boss''s office. Kai stopped in front of the doors, a knowing glint in his eyes. Without hesitation, he pushed the doors open. There sat Erasmus Thorne, the very picture of composure, behind a massive, ornately carved desk. Galvan stood beside him, his face a mask of conflicting emotions. Kais eyes locked with Erasmus, who leaned forward in his chair, a scowl etched on his face. "Lord Arzan," he drawled, his voice laced with barely concealed disdain. "This is an unorthodox way to visit. Barging into a private office without an invitation is considered disrespectful in most circles." Kai met Erasmus''s scowl with a ruthless gaze of his own. "Disrespectful?" he countered. "Perhaps. But again, Mr. Thorne, this is my city. And these unexpected visits seem to be a recurring theme when it comes to Tradeheart." Erasmus''s nostrils flared with barely contained anger. He opened his mouth to retort, but Kai cut him off with a raised hand. "Enough of this charade," Kai continued, his voice firm. "I''m not here for pleasantries. I''m here for business." Erasmus leaned back in his chair, a glint of curiosity battling with his annoyance. "Business?" he echoed. "What kind of business?" "The kind that settles outstanding debts," Kai declared, his gaze moving to the chest held by one of his guards. With a flick of his wrist, the chest lid snapped open, revealing a dazzling display of gold coins. 10,000 of them. A collective gasp filled the room. Galvan''s eyes widened in surprise, while Erasmus''s facade faltered for a moment, a twinkle of greed momentarily replacing his anger. "This," Kai continued, his voice ringing with authority, "is the repayment for the city''s loan, in full and with immediate effect." He gestured towards the chest. "Have your agreement ready. I expect it to be signed and sealed before I leave these premises." Erasmus stared at the gold, his mind racing. It was visible on his face that the abruptness of the situation, the sheer volume of the coin, was all too much to process for him. He opened and closed his mouth. He glanced at Galvan, who met his gaze with a mixture of resignation. "Tea, perhaps?" Erasmus finally offered, his voice strained. "We can discuss this matter over a cup of" "No time for pleasantries," Kai interrupted, his voice leaving no room for argument. "The agreement. Now." Erasmus, sensing the shift in power dynamics, slumped back in his chair, a defeated sigh escaping his lips. He reached into a drawer, pulling out a rolled-up scroll tied with a crimson ribbon. He unfurled the scroll and quickly wrote a few things. After two minutes, Erasmus visibly sighed. Wait Kais voice came. Francis. They shared an unvoiced conversation. Francis walked from behind and towards Erasmuss desk. His eyes peaked over all the details of the paper. He tapped on the other set of papers that he had brought with him. As he matched the contents of it, he repeatedly nodded. Kai knew what it was. He waited patiently. All eyes were on Erasmus, who waited for Francis to finish reading what he wrote. Yes, you can sign that, Franciss approval lingered in the air. He then walked behind to stand behind the crowd. This debt had been a powerful tool, a leash holding the city in a stranglehold. Now, with a single act, Kai was breaking it. Erasmus dipped a quill in ink, his hand shaking slightly. He glanced at the gold again, a storm of emotions pouring across his face. Then, his eyes lingered over to the guards standing beside him. Galvan stood in the corner, looking helpless and Erasmus knew he wasn''t going to get any help from him. He gulped and the quill moved. After signing the papers that stated that the debt was paid in full, he passed it on to Kai who read over it before giving it to Francis to safeguard. With this, Tradeheart could never even hope to take the farmlands. Take it inside, Erasmus ordered to the clerk who stood by his side the entire time. The latter walked forward and took it behind the door. "Well, Lord Arzan," he began, his voice dripping with a false cheer, "A most unexpected turn of events. But a delightful one nonetheless! The city settling its debt in full is a great achievement. And those heat stones a truly ingenious invention. Quite the boon for the city, I would say." Kai raised an eyebrow, unfazed by Erasmus''s attempt to butter him up. "Yes, indeed," he replied, his voice devoid of warmth. "The Heat stones have proven quite successful." Erasmus leaned forward, a sly glint in his eyes. "Speaking of success, Lord Arzan, perhaps there''s an opportunity for collaboration. Tradeheart, as you know, has a vast network of connections. We could help expand the reach of these Heat stones, ensuring their distribution throughout the country! A mutually beneficial partnership, wouldn''t you agree?" Kai shook his head, a resolute glint in his eyes. "I appreciate the offer, but I''m afraid a partnership with Tradeheart isn''t in the cards." Erasmus''s smile faltered for a brief moment, a twitch of annoyance crossing his features. "Is this about the debt settlement? I assure you, Lord Arzan, it was a simple business transaction. And I sincerely apologise if any offence was caused." Kai held his gaze, his voice steady. "The debt is a matter of the past, Erasmus. However, there are other concerns that make me avoid any such collaboration." The latter steepled his fingers, his eyes narrowing. "Concerns? Do elaborate, Lord Arzan. A tense silence took over the room. Kai met Erasmus''s narrowed gaze head-on, a hint of a challenge dancing in his eyes. He gestured towards Francis, who stood stoically by the door now. "Francis," Kai said, his voice low but firm, "bring in the files." Francis walked forward with a thick stack of bound parchments. He placed them on the desk with a soft thud, the sound echoing in the strained silence. "These files, Erasmus Thorne," Kai began, his voice carrying a quiet weight. "They detail a long and troubling history. Tradeheart Merchant Company has operated in our city for decades. While some of your contributions have been beneficial, you cannot deny that you have consistently acted outside the bounds of fair trade. Erasmus''s face remained a mask of confusion, though a flicker of unease across his features. Galvan, on the other hand, seemed oddly tense, his gaze flitting between Kai and the files on the desk. Kai noticed how he hadnt said a word since he got here. He had let Erasmus do all the talking he guessed he hadn''t forgotten the small sample he had shown him about laws the last time. "Outside the bounds?" Erasmus scoffed. "What are you talking about, Lord Arzan?" Francis stepped forward, his voice filled with an authority Kai would seldom hear. "These documents, Mr. Thorne, detail numerous violations of city ordinances. Price gouging during times of scarcity, manipulation of contracts, and even questionable accounting practices." Erasmus''s face paled slightly. He glanced at Galvan, who bit his lip, his eyes filled with a mixture of fear and nervousness. "These are unfounded accusations," Erasmus stammered, his voice losing its earlier bravado. Francis, unfazed, began to list specific instances: "The exorbitant prices charged for basic supplies during last harsh frost. The hidden clauses in contracts burdened farmers with unfair debts. And the discrepancies in your tax reports that suggest a significant amount of revenue has gone unaccounted for." Kai watched Francis methodically dismantle Tradeheart''s facade. His voice, devoid of emotion, cut through the tense silence. I believe theres more, Kai said in a low tone. Please, from the beginning, Francis. Im sure the businessmen here would like to know everything they''ve done to violate the city rules. "Firstly," Francis began, tapping a document. "The issue of monopolies. Tradeheart, through a series of forceful negotiations and strategic acquisitions, has gained an illegal monopoly on essential goods like wood and weapons. While the surface appears legitimate, we looked into it and found proof." He flipped through the pages, his gaze shifting between them and Erasmus''s increasingly pale face. "There were other merchants, smaller companies, who dared to compete in these markets. However, their attempts were short-lived." Francis paused, letting the weight of his next words hang in the air. "Several caravans carrying weapons from these smaller merchants were attacked by bandits. After a thorough investigation, we discovered a pattern. The bandits involved were all linked back to individuals with close ties to Tradeheart." Erasmus''s face drained of all colour, replaced by a chilling realisation. A strangled gasp escaped his lips, but he remained silent, unable to refute the accusation. Francis continued, his voice relentless. "Furthermore, Mr. Thorne, there appears to be a significant discrepancy between your company''s reported income and its actual expenditures. Our investigation reveals evidence of embezzlement of funds, a systematic syphoning of profits for personal gain." He reached into the stack of documents and pulled out a ledger, its pages filled with meticulous calculations. With a flourish, he placed it on the desk in front of Erasmus. "These ledgers," Francis declared. "They detail a pattern of under-reporting revenue and inflated expenses. In essence, Tradeheart has been systematically avoiding its fair share of taxes, depriving the city of much-needed funds." Erasmus stared at the ledger, his hands trembling slightly. "How how did you gather this information?" he stammered, his voice barely a whisper. Kai met Erasmus''s hollow eyes with a steely gaze. "Our investigation was thorough," he said, his voice betraying none of the satisfaction stirring within him. This is all what he has been preparing for quite some time. "We questioned several of your former employees. It seems some found a conscience after witnessing the lengths Tradeheart was willing to go to maintain its stranglehold on the city." Erasmus frowned. He opened his mouth to speak, a desperate plea for leniency forming on his lips. However, before any words could escape, Kai cut him off with a raised hand. "You can try to challenge our findings, Erasmus," Kai continued, his voice devoid of warmth. "You can fight us in court, waste what remains of your dwindling resources on a legal battle you''re destined to lose." Erasmus''s shoulders slumped further, all fight seeming to drain from him. "But," Kai continued, a hint of a challenge in his eyes. "Let me remind you of one final infraction, a transgression so egregious that even the most skilled lawyers will struggle to defend." He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a low growl. "The attack on a member of the nobility. Do you deny that a member of your so-called security detail trespassed onto my estate and assaulted me?" Erasmus''s head snapped, glancing at Galvan with a glare. "An unfortunate misunderstanding It should be a misunderstanding," he sputtered. "Those guards were simply ensuring the safety of" "Misunderstandings do not explain a trained bodyguard launching an unprovoked attack," Kai interrupted, his voice laced with a dangerous edge. "And the law is quite clear. An assault on a member of the nobility is a serious offence, punishable by imprisonment. Considering the evidence of Tradeheart''s activities, I would say that could extend to everyone associated with your organisation." The air filled with tension. One could cut it through with a knife without a doubt. A stunned silence followed Kai''s pronouncement. Erasmus''s head whipped towards Galvan, his eyes wide with a mixture of betrayal and fury. "Galvan!" he roared, his voice cracking. "Is this true?! Did your guard really attack him?!" Galvan looked down at his clasped hands, shame etched on his face. "I I apologised that day itself, boss. It was in the heat of the moment," he mumbled. "It was wrong." Erasmus''s face contorted in rage. That doesnt mean a grain if there were witnesses! What have you done?!! Before he could unleash another tirade, Kai cut him off with a cold glare. You all can fight in jail later on. He frowned at them. He gestured towards Killian and his guards. "Arrest them all," he commanded, his voice leaving no room for argument. The guards surged forward, their movements swift and practised. Galvan, shame glistening in his eyes, offered no resistance. The other employees of Tradeheart, their faces pale with fear, froze in place. Erasmus, however, wasn''t ready to surrender so easily. He scrambled to his feet, a desperate plea clinging to his voice. "Wait!" he sputtered. "There must be a misunderstanding! We can negotiate! We have resources! We can" Kai spoke up. "Negotiations are over. The evidence speaks for itself. These charges will be sent to the capital, and Tradeheart will be branded enemies of the nobility. Until a proper trial takes place, you will all remain in custody." Erasmus''s face crumpled like a discarded parchment. His eyes darted around the room, searching for an escape, a glimmer of hope. But there was none. As the guards began to escort the Tradeheart personnel away, Erasmus let out a strangled cry of protest. "This is outrageous! You can''t do this! I demand a trial! We have rights!" His pleas fell on deaf ears. Kai watched him being led away, a jerk of satisfaction tinged in his mind. He did everything to make sure that he left evidence of what happens when someone misbehaves under his rule. He made sure that everyone on the street gets to see that even the most powerful can be brought to their knees. Throughout the way back to the castle, the protests and pleas filled the streets air. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 36. Off to next problem Kais expectations came true. After he dragged Erasmus out in the street, the whole town knew that Kai paid off the debt and dealt with the Tradeheart Merchant company. And with that, the headquarters were deserted. Even the low-level clerks left the city behind, not wanting to get caught and being scared of actions against them. It wasnt something major to care about, as Kais main intention was to state his authority to the public. Every organisation in the city and neighbouring states knew not to mess with him without a second thought due to that. It was just the start but regardless, it was a start. The other necessary things that were needed to do to get the economy of the city running again were at the back of his list. One of those included the mines. Kai had been watching them for quite some time. He received the information about the bandit group who occupied the mine. Therefore, after recruiting guards, he was finally ready to take it on. Kais shoulders were released from the taut position, while he let out a deep breath. They were in an office room where Killian and the guards gathered to discuss a few matters which included the bandits. "Well done, everyone," he said, his voice gruff. He smiled, showing appreciation to everyone. "A swift and decisive victory. Tradeheart won''t be troubling us any time soon." The guards puffed up their chests with proud smiles on their faces. Killian nodded his head. It was all due to your commands, Lord Arzan." Kai offered Killian a small, genuine smile. "Everyone played the part. Now, let''s turn our attention to more pressing matters." He gestured towards a large map spread out on the table, its surface dominated by the sprawling network of tunnels that snaked beneath the city the mines. "These bandits we need to deal with," Kai began, his voice turning serious. "They seem to be operating from a specific location within the mines." He pointed to a heavily shaded area on the map, a cluster of crudely drawn structures marking a small settlement. "According to our observations," Francis added, his voice devoid of emotion as he traced a path with his finger. "There''s a small worker settlement there and the bandits are using it a makeshift housing for themselves and people they have captured as slaves. There are watchtowers erected, giving them a clear view of any approaching threat. They were there to look out for any monsters, but now, it''s a huge advantage for the bandits." A frown creased Kai''s brow as he studied the map. "Slaves?" he echoed, his voice hardening. "It seems these bandits aren''t just interested in harassing travellers." "Yes, Lord Arzan," Killian confirmed, his gaze fixed on the map. Theres been reports that they have captured people from nearby villagers, mostly women. There''s also a few miners who weren''t able to run away when they attacked the mines. Kai didn''t have to think twice about what they were doing with the slaves. His rage rekindled as the discussion continued. They have been trying to mine there and ship it out to other places for good coin, Francis said. Though, it''s been slow since no one wants to deal with them. Anyone doing so would automatically break the kingdom''s law. S~ea??h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai looked at the map with curious eyes. He couldn''t help but think about the leader of this bandit group a man known only as "Grekk the Pulverizer." Grekk the Pulverizer Thats how hes being called, right? He asked, tilting his head, finding the title strange and amusing. Yes, he leads the Black Ravens. Killian frowned as he talked about the leader of them, Grekk isn''t just a mindless thug. He had a history of being an intelligent individual and a history of violence. More than that, he had worked in the army where he got good battle experience. He fought in the 2nd Dark Rose War. But the guy was thrown out for war crimes, Killian said and paused before continuing, He was rumoured to kill a subordinate, simply because he couldnt control his anger, and abused women against their own will in villages. Both cases were reported. So, he was kicked out. Part of the reason was also because he punched a superior right in the face. A moment of silence was passed between everyone. Even if he had been in the army, he sure had the guts to go after a noble''s territory. A power-hungry guy who can''t think far into the future. Kai broke the silence and nodded, tracing the route to the bandit settlement with his finger. He had seen individuals like him a lot. There was more than one case of protectors of a city doing more heinous crimes than even the worst prisoners, just due to their lust for power and authority. This wouldn''t be a simple raid. He traced the path to the bandit settlement with his finger, a grim realisation settling on his features. His lips pursed to a thin line as he sighed Killian''s briefing painted a disturbing picture in his mind. "Once he got out, he started The Black Ravens with a hundred bandits under him. Over half had been in the army while others were taken from small bandit groups," Killian rumbled, continuing on the origins of the guy. "Most of them past their prime, more belly than brawn, but veterans nonetheless. They wouldn''t win a stand-up fight, but they have lived in the settlement for months now. And they''re ruthless." He hesitated for a moment, his jaw clenching. "And there''s the matter of the women." Disgust coloured his voice as he spoke of the kidnapped villagers forced to serve the bandits. The villagers tried to fight, but its been tough with the command being non-existent. Kai barely controlled his mana from flaring up. The prisoners would be a big problem. He didn''t want them to get caught up in their plans. We need to pull up our forces. It''s not going to be easy, but we are going to make a statement out of them." Kais voice grew colder with every word. Killian nodded curtly. "Agreed, Lord Arzan. But how strong a force are we talking about?" Kai''s gaze swept across the room, taking in the determined faces of the guards. They were front-line guards who were trained to work closely with Killian. "We bring half our forces," Kai said. "Fifty well-trained guards, myself, and you, Killian. That should be enough to crack Grekk''s little fiefdom and send those bandits scattering like frightened roaches." A hint of a smile played on Killian''s lips. He chuckled a dry, humourless sound. "Half our forces, Lord Arzan? With all due respect, that''s overkill. You alone could probably handle half those bandits." Kai raised an eyebrow, a surprised glint in his eyes. "While I appreciate the vote of confidence, Killian, underestimating our enemy is a recipe for disaster." "Not in this case," Killian countered, his voice firm. "These bandits are a disorganised lot. Nasty, certainly, but far from the toughest opponents we''ve faced. Remember the necromancer incident last year? Compared to that, this will be a walk in the park." "True," he admitted. But complacency is a danger too. We can''t afford to get sloppy." Kai thought to himself and looked at Killian. Killian straightened up, his gaze sweeping across the room, meeting the determined eyes of his companions. "Very well, then I suggest we''ll take a smaller yet stronger force C forty of our best guards, myself, and you, Lord Arzan. That should be enough to send a message." A collective murmur of agreement rippled through the room. Forty elite guards, with Kai by their side. It seemed possible by how Killian explained their situation. Kai turned towards the guards, his voice hardening with resolve. "Men," he boomed, his voice echoing in the room. "For too long, these bandits have plagued our lands, harassing travellers and stealing from our people. They have grown comfortable in their arrogance, believing they can run rampant on our soil with impunity." His gaze burned with righteous anger. "But today, that ends. Today, we show them the true meaning of pride and honour. Today, we reclaim what is rightfully ours! We march into those mines not just to liberate the innocent, but to send a message. A message that says our city will not tolerate those who seek to exploit and plunder!" In the end, he smirked, Theyll be paying with their lives. The guards cheered loudly, excited by what Kai had in mind. *** Ansel, a man who sat to the side of the road wiped his brow with a grimy sleeve, taking a long swig from his waterskin. His throat felt like sandpaper, and his lips were cracked and bleeding. It had been too cold for him to continue walking for a long time. , he thought, squinting towards the horizon. The city of Veralt should be just around the next bend, according to the sketchy map he''d bartered for in the last village. He''d heard rumours about Veralt once a prosperous city, it had turned desolate after the last lord had passed away and the new one wasn''t interested in the matter of governance. With bandit attacks and a migrating population, it was supposed to turn into a ghost city sooner or later. But lately, those whispers had taken a hopeful turn. Talk of a new leader, a Mage who had driven out the merchants and was cleaning house. Ansel wasn''t one for believing rumours, but he was a traveller and it was his life path to visit every place. With everything surrounding Veralt, it just felt like the right place for his next destination. Maybe he could even find something interesting enough to hold his attention there. He hoisted himself up from the shade of the gnarled tree, wincing at the protest from his aching muscles. Just as he reached for his horse''s reins, a faint sound caught his attention a rhythmic thuddinghooving in the distance. He squinted, his hand hovering in mid-air. The sound grew steadily louder, accompanied by a low rumble that vibrated through the ground. His heart hammered against his ribs. Curiosity warring with caution, he decided to investigate. He tethered his horse to a low-hanging branch and crept towards a rise in the ground that offered a better vantage point. As he crested the small hill, his breath hitched. There, on the dusty road below, a sight unfolded that sent a jolt of adrenaline through him. A group of quite a large number of people, clad in gleaming armour, galloped their way through the street, their expressions grim and determined. In the middlesurrounded by the rest of the guards, two figures gained his attention for how differently they were dressed. One was a tall, imposing man with an air of authority, the other an armoured man who had a mysterious aura surrounding him. Ansel''s jaw dropped as he couldnt believe his eyes. There were a lot of them, and it wasnt a usual sight for him. He felt a deep urge to turn and flee, to disappear back into the anonymity of the dusty road. But a strange sense of fascination kept him rooted to the spot. He watched, mesmerised, as the army marched on. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 37. A long shot Ansel scrambled back from the road, his heart hammering against his ribs. He was galloping on his own horse towards the guards who were moving steadily he had to double their speed to catch up. When he finally reached the front, he went a bit forward, towards the middle of the road. The guards halted in their way a hollow silence filled the air. He got down from his horse and looked up at the towering figure who quickly made his way towards Ansel. A hand, encased in a heavy gauntlet, pointed towards him. He seemed like a guard. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Out of the way, you!" the guard boomed, his voice laced with urgency. Youre in our way," the guard growled. "Move along." Ansel stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "I-I apologise. I''m just a traveller. On my way to Veralt." The guard''s gaze softened slightly. If that''s the case, then just go there." He glanced behind, turning his head to look at the citys direction. We guard the city. Just go on and the guards on the gate will let you in. Thanks, but I have a question for you, he asked, the guard cocking his head in curiosity. A part of him told him to not bother them, but he wanted to know. "What''s going on?" he blurted. "Where are you all headed?" The guard hesitated, then leaned. "We''re heading to the mines. Lord Arzan himself is leading the charge." He puffed out his chest and looked behind. You should get off of our way. We don''t have much time, so just be on your way. Ansel nodded, yet continued to talk. "I apologise for another question but are you are you heading to deal with the bandits?" The guard''s eyes narrowed. "Bandits?" he echoed, suspicion creeping into his voice. "How did you know about that?" Ansel flushed. I just overheard a merchant group talking. Apparently, it''s a famous topic to discuss among them," he said, trying to act casual. The guard''s gaze remained fixed on him for a long, tense moment. Just as Ansel was about to turn and bolt before he could run out of patience, the guard relaxed slightly. It sure is something those gossip-loving bastards would love to discuss." He muttered. Seeing an opening, Ansel pressed his luck. "Yes, I was travelling with them and they talked about all sorts of stuff like bored housewives. So are you heading there? To the bandits, I mean?" He gestured vaguely towards the horses. If so, can you let me come with you? Ansel requested. A hand, adorned with a simple silver ring, suddenly descended upon the guard''s shoulder. The guard straightened, surprise flickering across his face as he turned to address the newcomer. The imposing figure Ansel had seen in the middle of the guards dismounted from his horse, his armour already giving him hints about his standing. He was a man of impressive stature. The guard immediately bowed to his presence. Ansel frowned. "What seems to be the problem here?" the newcomer inquired, his voice surprisingly gentle despite his imposing presence. The guard, his posture still stiff with respect, explained the situation. "Lord Arzan," he began, inclining his head slightly. "We found this traveller on the road. He seems to be aware of our mission and expressed a desire to accompany us. I didnt say that its possible, but its certainly up to you, my Lord." The guard took a step back, letting Lord Arzan handle it. Ansel, suddenly aware of the man''s importance, managed to speak out, "I wouldn''t want to be a bother, my lord. Just a simple traveller, heading to Veralt. I heard about the situation with the bandits, and I, well, I wouldn''t mind observing from a safe distance." Lord Arzan''s gaze swept over Ansel, taking in his dusty clothes and worn satchel. Something flickered in his eyes. "Observe, you say?" he rumbled. "This is no sightseeing expedition. These bandits are ruthless men, and this is no place for the faint of heart." Ansels mouth moved to counter it as he was certainly no faint of heart and could hold off against a few bandits, but Lord Arzan cut him off with a decisive shake of his head. "No," he declared, his voice firm. "For your own safety, you cannot accompany us. I believe you can find your way to Veralt. The city is good and warm to travellers. Go and do whatever business you have there." He turned towards the guards, his expression hardening. We need to move out. If anyone else disturbs the road, let them know the same." The guards acknowledged the order with a sharp nod, their gazes lingering on Ansel for a moment. He felt a pang of disappointment as seeing the guards in action would have been a nice sight. It certainly interested him more than seeing the city and finding an inn to stay. As the riders turned their mounts and thundered away, a cloud of dust swirled to the sky as the horses galloped in a flash. He watched them go, a strange mix of emotions churning within him. Then, he smiled, pulling out his horse and taking off. *** The relentless coldness beat down on Kai and his companions as they travelled the vast expanse of grasslands. Hours had bled into one another since they had left the city gates, the rhythmic pounding of hooves a constant thrumming in their ears. Sweat beaded on their brows, soaking their armour. Despite the heat and fatigue, a tense focus hung in the air. Kai, at the head of the formation, scanned the horizon with a practised eye. Gone were the lush forests and winding roads of the outskirts; here, the land stretched out before them in a sea of tall grasses, rippling gently in the breeze. Killian rode beside him, his face etched with grim determination. "Any sign of them yet, Lord Arzan?" he rumbled, his voice hoarse from the chill air. Kai knew he pointed his question at him due to him using [Hawk Eyes] to keep an eye on where they were headed. He shook his head, his lips pursed in concentration. "Not yet," he replied, his voice low. "But according to the map, the settlement shouldn''t be far. I should be able to see it-" He gestured towards a faint smudge on the horizon, barely seeing it due to the distance. "See that? That could be the dust plume from their mining operations. Get down! Killian made a noise that halted all the guards in their positions. If the settlements were close by, it wasnt the most ideal or smart to go to them on horses. In a swift moment, they were all on their feet while the guards took control of the horses. Killian looked back and whistled. The guards bent down slightly after tying them to the trees and started moving in a herd. Slowly, Killian said aloud for only the front line to hear, but the rest of the guards took alert. The anticipation crackled in the air, thick and suffocating. They were nearing their target, and the unknown dangers that lurked within the mines gnawed at their nerves. Soon, they saw the first sign of the settlement with the towers built like a fortress to not let any monsters close. From the distance, Kai could already spot a few bandits on top of them. Killian straightened."Are we sure about this plan, Lord Arzan?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper. "Hitting them head-on seems risky." A flicker of a smile touched Kai''s lips. "Risky, yes," he admitted. "But a surprise is our greatest advantage. If we can overwhelm them quickly, before they have time to react, we can minimise casualties." Killian pressed close to Kai, his voice a tense whisper. "How do we handle this? Those towers they''ll spot us the second we break cover." His eyes flicked to the rough-hewn settlement, a knot of concern appearing on his face. Kai knew he had a point. The bandits could easily see from the security post that they were nearing the land they occupied. But he already had a plan to deal with it. Don''t worry, I know what to do. They continued to slowly move forward, attempting not to make any big noises in the process. Their training seemed to be very useful as they hid behind trees and made sure there wasnt anything suspicious moving around. A few minutes passed in silence. The only noise Kai heard was his own heart beating against his ears. Finally, they reached a clearing, a bowl of open land rimmed by skeletal trees. It was far enough that the bandits couldn''t see them. "I need your best archers. Right now." Killian nodded and signalled, and a handful of figures melted from the shadowsC archers with their bows strung tautly. They had already discussed the guards'' skills they should bring along, and archers were among them. The archers barely took a second to stand in front of Kai. he thought to himself as he saw how ready the five archers were. Their bows were gracefully held in their hands, and they were prepared to release to shoot at an order. "See them?" Kai asked, pointing at the tower. Killian squinted, finally making out the dark shapes huddled atop the towers, barely more than smudges against the fading daylight. "Can you hit them?" Kai asked, his voice low, the question hanging in the air. A chorus of negatives followed. "Too far, Lord Arzan," one archer muttered, squinting towards the distant towers. "Can''t even make out the details, let alone a target that small." Another chimed in, his voice laced with frustration. "The wind is picking up, my Lord. Long-range shots like that are a gamble at best." Kai listened patiently, his expression unreadable. Then, a slow smile spread across his face, a glint dancing in his eyes. "What if I told you where to aim?" he asked. "Not just where, but how high to hold your bow, the exact number of degrees to adjust for the wind all of it." Silence spread. The archers exchanged uncertain glances. This was unorthodox. Targeting wasn''t a precise science, it relied on experience and a keen eye. But then there was Lord Arzan''s image for them. Kai knew that he wasn''t known for recklessness recently, and his spells were unmatched in the minds of the guards. The guards had started to trust him even more Finally, one of the archers stepped forward. He looked to be a seasoned veteran with his hair in the process of fading to white and a few wrinkles covering his face. "You sure about this, Lord Arzan?" he rumbled, his voice gruff. Kai met his gaze unflinchingly. "Positive," he declared with certainty. "But it has to be perfect. One shot, one kill." The veteran archer studied him for a long moment, then a slow nod followed. "Alright, Lord Arzan," he said, a low determination settling in his voice. "Tell us what you see, and we''ll do the rest." - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 38. A beating The archers approval was the only thing Kai needed. Kai squinted his eyes towards the distant watchtowers. He raised a gloved hand, silencing the murmurs of his men. They were probably discussing the plan and if it was even going to work. Hold, he commanded. Then, he whispered the incantation, a faint blue light coming from his fingertips. It swirled for a brief moment before changing into a miniature hawk. If flapped his wings as everyone looked in surprise before taking off. It was a 2nd circle spell which was a more complicated and advanced version of [Hawk Eyes]. It was called [Vision of Hawk] and was perfect for what Kai needed at the moment. The hawk''s images became invisible as soon as it hit the air. Kai started focusing on his connection with the hawk, his vision sharpening as if mirroring the hawks keen eyesight. Within a few seconds, he saw the bandits with startling clarityone, a hulking figure with a scared face leaning against the rail. And then, he saw another person who paced restlessly, a crossbow slung across his back. As he squinted, he was able to see more details. The weathered wood, a worn rope ladder leading up to the platform where the bandits were. He could see everything even three more bandits at different points on the tower. The next step was doing another complicated 1st circle spell. It was called [Ranging Strand]. Complications lay in its spell structure and the purpose, and it was mostly used to accurately measure distance, and the degrees of angles the archers had to aim. If even a small degree changes, it will affect their entire plan on a major scale. The spell started working, allowing Kai to take all the measurements in degrees. Kai mentally studied everything he saw while combining the spells with his efforts. Using two spells at the same time was almost impossible for most new Mages, but it was second nature for him, even though it took a lot of concentration. "Alright," he announced, his voice carrying a note of quiet confidence. "I have the lay of the land. Now, listen closely" Kai''s gaze narrowed as he lowered his hand, the lingering blue wisp of magic from the Ranging Strand dissipating into the air. A satisfied smile tugged at the corner of his lips. He gestured towards the veteran archer, the one with the weathered face. "So," he addressed him. "You take the first shot. Aim for the eastern lookout, just to the right of that weathered beam. Just get into position and I will help correct it." The guy didn''t flinch. He stepped forward, no questions asked. With practised movements, he knocked an arrow, his gaze fixed on the distant tower. He adjusted the angle of his bow ever so slightly. Kai helped him get his bow to the correct length, measuring the distance and the angle. Is this enough? the guy whispered. Three to five degrees more Perfect, Kai said. A deep breath in, a slow exhale, and the string sang as he loosed the arrow. It flew true, a dark streak against the clear sky. A tense silence followed, broken only by the sighing wind. Then, from the direction of the watchtower, a bloodcurdling scream pierced the air. It was a sound of raw pain and surprise. The cry was so loud that Kai saw the man immediately standing up with his hand on his chest, where the arrow hit him. Within a second, he fell on the floor. One shot, one kill. Wasting no time, Kai barked out another order. "Second archer, southern lookout. One and a half heartbeats. Take your aim!" The second archer stepped forward, his movements mirroring the previous guy. He drew, aimed, and loosened. Another cry, this one tinged with fury, echoed across the empty land. The third archer aimed his arrow and waited for Kais command. Tilt up to the East from the second guy. One heartbeat, take your aim. The archer acted along. Four degrees to the left, and two down Kai paused. And.. Shoot. The archer stretched the bow and shot instantly, earning another scream. The last two archers had similar responses as they successfully cleared the watchers from every tower. Thatd be all for now! Kais hurried voice came in a whisper. Although a sense of satisfaction clouded over his thoughts, he couldnt let it empower his actions. Good job, you five, Killians voice came from behind; a proud tone clearly audible. Kai shook his head immediately. Its just the beginning. Lets head back to the horses as soon as possible. We need to strike them when they least expect it! *** A massive wooden table groaned under the weight of a feast prepared for a burly, untidy man. Trencher boards overflowed with roasted boar, glistening slabs of ribs and an entire side of salmon baked to a golden crisp. In the centre, a steaming bowl of stew sent tendrils of savoury aroma wafting through the air. At the head of the table, a man built like a bull sat hunched over, shovelling food into his mouth with a ferocity that rivalled a starving wolf. Greased fingers tore at roasted chicken, grease dripping down his worn leather jerkin and staining his thick beard. That was Grekk, the self-proclaimed leader of the Black Raven Bandits. Across from him, a wiry man named Fletch picked at his food with a chipped plate with nervous tics and darting eyes. He was the closest thing Grekk had to an advisor, though his role leaned more towards suggestions than actual strategy. "Blast it all!" Grekk roared, slamming his meaty fist on the table, sending a platter of vegetables clattering to the floor. "These mines are overflowing with good ore, enough to line our pockets for years! But what good is it if we can''t sell the damned stuff?" Fletch winced at the outburst. "Well, boss," he stammered. "You know most merchants won''t touch anything mined by bandits. It''s bad for business, brings down the law and whatnot." Grekk snorted, a spray of gravy escaping his beard. "Law? We make our own law here at Black Raven. Find some... unofficial channels, Fletch. Someone desperate enough to turn a blind eye for the right price." Fletch chewed his lip, his eyes darting around the room as if searching for escape routes. "Tried that already, boss. Blacksmiths in the nearby towns won''t touch it, and the whispers are the lord had put out an alert for anyone seen dealing with us." Grekk''s scowl deepened, his gaze darkening. He wiped his greasy hands on his breeches, leaving behind a glistening brown stain. "And what about that smooth-talker we were supposed to meet? Said he had connections, could get our ore into the black market without a hitch." Fletch''s throat constricted. "About that, boss Well, he hasn''t shown up since yesterday. Sent a couple of the men to check on his place, but it was empty. No sign of him, not a single coin." Grekk''s face contorted in a rage. He had talked to someone who had guaranteed to sell the ores and left with an advance, but he had just gotten scammed. He lunged forward in anger, sending the table crashing to the floor with a deafening clang. Plates shattered, cutlery scattered, and the stew pot rolled across the room, spewing its contents onto the rough-hewn wooden floor. "Double-crossed!" Grekk yelled, his voice shaking the rafters. "We get robbed by a smooth-talking snake and can''t even sell our own loot! Someone''s going to pay for this!" The retort died on Fletch''s lips. He wondered what to do when something took his attention. A guttural yell, laced with raw terror, pierced the air from outside. It was a sound they both recognized the panicked cry of a man. What the hell is that?! Grekk shoved himself upright, his face a mask of fury instantly replaced by a cold, predatory gleam. He snatched an axe leaning against the wall. Fletch scrambled to his feet, a dagger clutched in his sweating hand. They didn''t need words. With a shared look, they surged towards the rough-hewn wooden door leading out onto the balcony. Grekk threw open the door with a crash. A wave of cool evening air washed over them, carrying with it the acrid smell of blood. Grekk''s breath caught in his throat. Below, sprawled across the dusty path leading to the mine entrance, lay the lifeless forms of his men. Each bandit, the lookouts stationed on the other watchtowers included, sported a single, neat arrow protruding from their bodies. No struggle, no cries of alarm, just silent death. His eyes widened at the precision of the arrow that pierced their bodies, making them lose blood and die. Panic prickled at the edges of Grekk''s mind. He looked up, trying to find where the arrows came from. There, in the distance, he saw them. A company of soldiers, clad in gleaming armour, galloped on top of horses towards the mine entrance, led by a figure in silver that radiated an aura of quiet authority. Fletch, is that Arzan, the new lord of Veralt? Grekk yelled, looking at his advisor. He''d heard whispers of Arzan. And even sent one of his men to spy in the city whenever the lord would come out, so he knew how he looked and the man in the silver armour matched every one bit of the description. I-I think so. Fletch nodded. The realization of an attack hit both of them with the force of a hammer blow. "Fletch, we need to do something!" Grekk bellowed, his voice hoarse with urgency. "We need to close the main gate! Now!" He knew the gate wouldn''t hold for long, but it might just buy them enough time to formulate a desperate plan, or at least a chance to fight. Grekk could hear their hooves, loud and clear. For a brief moment, he couldnt think of what to do. You! You! Close the damn gates!!! Grekk yelled at a bandit on the lowest floor. It was the only way in or out of the settlement. The bandit, eager to keep his life started closing the door. But soon, a deep guttural sound echoed through the land, followed by a deafening boom that shook the very foundations of the tower. The door blasted away, making the bandit fly out and smash against a wall. Grekk squinted his eyes. Through the smoke and debris, Arzan stormed through. He dismounted his horse with a fluid moment. A bandit came running towards him, but he kicked him with ease. The bandit fell to the ground, knocked out. He didnt make a single sound, simply lying unconscious on the floor. The remaining men stared at the scene in stunned silence. "Kill them all!" Arzan''s voice rang out, cutting through the din. "Show no mercy to these bandits!" The soldiers cheered loudly and dismounted their horses before rushing at the bandits, holding their weapons. Two bandits charged at the noble. Before Grekk could even blink, Arzan reacted instinctively. He unleashed a wind spell Wait what?! The bandits were sent tumbling through the air like ragdolls. They landed a few feet away, stunned and coughing. Arzan moved his head, searching for something and his gaze turned cold when he noticed Grekk. In his outstretched hand, something flickered. Within the speed of light, he sent a thin sharp layer of wind towards the two bandits, splitting their heads from their bodies. The blood started oozing out their necks as they fell onto the ground. Grekk took two steps back. "M-mage! There''s a Mage among them! Lord Arzan is a Mage!" "It''s true! They weren''t just rumours!" Fletch yelled as the noises of silver against one another filled the settlement. "Doesn''t matter!" Grekk said, trying to maintain a facade of bravado. "We have them outnumbered! We can''t lose this mine! He is still a coward who didnt do anything for them for months!" He said the last few words to himself and got to his feet. He tightened his hold around the axe and started moving down the ladder. Grekk had to be quick. Many of his men lay dead or dying at the soldiers'' feet. But still, the rest of the men were trying to fight. He had to aid them and kill the Mage. He quickly came down, his feet speeding up. Once he hit the floor, his gaze swept across the guards. *** Kai saw the man who seemed too unhealthy to his liking set his feet on the battleground. The way he was dressed, and how he darted his eyes in between the scenery it was obvious to know his identity. The burly man immediately started attacking two soldiers, but he knew the guards were capable. Kai scoffed and turned around, sending a [Wind Spear] cutting a bandits air out as he tried to lunge towards him. They were easy too easy. Killian was right about this. His men were trying their best to battle against them and a lot of them overpowered the bandits. But there were times they needed his help. Feroy, who was a few feet away from Kai lifted a man in the air. His face turned red as all the blood rushed upwards. The man yelled in pain as Feroy sliced through his very chest, blood dripping all over him in the process. You darn bandit! Feroy yelled. He threw the man across the floor, adding to the pile of bandits he had killed so far. Feroy didn''t waste time admiring his handiwork. The clang of metal on metal drew his gaze as the bandit with the short sword lunged. Feroy met the attack head-on, his own spear a blur of silver. Sparks flew as blades clashed. The bandit with the spiked club, a hulking brute with a shaved head, roared and swung his weapon in a wide arc. Feroy ducked under the blow with practised ease. With a grunt, he slammed his shoulder into the bandit''s chest, sending him staggering back. The third bandit, wielding a spear saw it as an opening. He lunged forward. Feroy pivoted on his heel. He pushed the bandit again with great force. His strength was unmatched. The bandit with the spear stumbled back in surprise, dragging himself due to imbalance and falling on the floor with a loud thud. Feroy didn''t hesitate. He charged forward. The bandit with the short sword, momentarily distracted, saw the attack too late. Feroy''s blade found its mark, the bandit crumpling to the floor with a strangled cry. Blood dripped from the stab as he lay on the floor. The remaining two bandits stared at the dead bandit. He didn''t give them a chance to react. With a roar, he stomped his foot, gaining their attention. The bandit with the spiked club started taking a few steps backwards. Before he could fully walk away, Feroy was upon him, his spear flashing down in a decisive arc. The last bandit, the one with the spear, threw down his weapon with a whimper, his face drained of colour. Bord was behind him, his sword inside the mans throat. Feroy didn''t even look at him, he turned and rushed to attack the next bandit. Bord simply shrugged and did the same. Kai nodded at Bord who helped Feroy as he was almost worried he couldnt handle three bandits together, but the guy proved him wrong. Hollow moans from the bandit at hand soon brought him back to the present as another bandit rushed at him, throwing up his spear at him like a Lance. Kai didn''t have to do much as the wind blasted off the spear before another [Wind Spear] cut off the head of the bandit. As the body fell to the ground almost instantly, he saw Bran and Nelson fighting off five bandits themselves. Nelson was using his height and mass, throwing bandits flying on the ground. He was a tall guy, and including the power of awakening, he easily took on bandits as if they were mere flies, not even humans. Bran took the chance to slide in between bandits and find those who were thrown by Nelson and lay on the floor. With ease, he silenced them with his sword. Soon, the duo started fighting with more bandits head-to-head. They weren''t entirely used to it. But Kai noticed how in sync they were. Argh! His vision was swiftly disturbed by a tall, skinny man holding an axe twice the size of his head. Kai could say the skinny fellow was prepared to put up a fight. But before the bandit could even get closer to him, a trained soldier came from behind, slicing his sword right through his chest. Kai threw a [Fire Bolt] at the man on the floor. Immediately, the smell of burnt flesh filled the air. Soon, he saw something else. One of the guards was in a compromising situation. He was fighting off a bandit, but the second bandit had his axe in the air, almost getting to the guard. Kai quickly formed a spell structure on his hands. He used [Wind spear] once more and shot it towards the bandit. It flew through the air and sliced his body into two. With the bandits being powerless against his spells, it was a pretty easy victory. As he flung out his spells, he heard footsteps behind him. Turning back, he saw a bandit rushing at him slowly with a spiked club. I''m going to take your head, you bastard! He yelled as he saw Kai. Are you sure about that? Without answering, the latter lunged at Kai, but he didnt even give him enough time to get closer to him. He sent a [Fire Bolt]. The bandits loud-pitched cry pierced through the air as he dodged one bolt, but another hit his throat, burning the area around his neck as blood spurted out, ending his life slowly as he whimpered. Fluidly, Kai turned around. Taking one after another bandit, the fight continued. The soldiers were outnumbering the bandits quickly for obvious reasons. Kai was using simple spells left and right. Slicing through their body parts, distracting them, then killing them. It was an easy process, but every bandit was different. Some were weaker than others. Soon, a hulking brute with a spiked club launched at him. He didn''t have time to form a spell structure, so he picked up his spear and immediately started deflecting a flurry of blows. Sweat beaded on Kais brow as the bandit got ahead of himself. Kai caught his arm and twisted it, using the technique he had learned to fracture the bandits hands. Even if the bandit was huge, Kai could see that he had unnecessary weight and had been fighting for a long time. So, it was easier than expected. The man yelped in pain. Then Kai used [Gust], sending the bandit flying in the air, followed by a [Wind spear] killing him in the air itself. Killian on the other hand was fighting with a bandit who was swinging his club wildly. Kai rushed at him and saw his chance. He ducked under and delivered a swift kick to the bandits knee. The man buckled, collapsing with a pained grunt. Killian killed the man with ease as his sword plunged his throat. Good technique, Lord Arzan, Killian gave a respectful nod and continued to attack other bandits. A painful yelp took his attention and Kai looked at the far end, around the stairs. A burly man''s expression turned into a scowl as he took out his axe from the stomach of a guard. He fell on the ground as the bandit Grekk grinned before he turned, his eyes meeting Kai. "Mage! I dont care if you are the lord of the place. This place is mine now and no one can take it away from me," Grekk shouted, his voice laced with a desperate edge. I will kill you first and then, your men will surrender to me!" Kai didn''t reply. Because the man was simply in denial. He frowned as Grekk made for Kai. He moved with a decisiveness that other bandits didn''t have. Though, he could see that other than strength, he didn''t have much going for him. Grekk might have been in the military, but it had been years since then and he looked haggard and bloodthirsty as he lunged for Kai. A wind spell knocked him back as he fell on the ground and cursed. As he tried to get up, Kai muttered the incarnation for [Cinder Circle]. Immediately, a vortex of flames rose from the ground, a few bandits and guards moving away from it as surrounded Grekk who yelled. Taking the moment of his surprise, Kai jumped up in the vortex and punched him right in the face. W-What do you think you are doing? Grekk said, trying to pick up his axe, but Kai kicked it away. Shut up! Or I will sever your head from your body. Kai frowned, stomping his hands and locking him on the ground with wind spells. He winced, but Kai kept kicking and punching him like he was a ragdoll. If he wanted, he could easily kill him right then and therebut no. The only reason Kai had personally come to battle the bandits was to make a mockery out of them and teach a lesson to every wandering bandit in his territory that might try something like this. The only purpose to keep Grekk alive was to make him a lesson for others. For the next half an hour, painful cries echoed as the bandits lost. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Sear?h the n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 39. Down the slope The metallic tang of blood hung heavy in the air. Loud heaves and groans escaped from the wounded bandits who were scattered around the clearing. Kai looked around the aftermath with a grimace. More bandits remained conscious than he had anticipated. Over a half, by his count, lay groaning or slumped against trees, bound with their weapons abandoned in different places and their eyes widened with a mixture of terror and defeat, nervously looking at Kai, who had their boss under his feet. The other half had been killed mercilessly, but his guards had gone softer than he had anticipated. It did make sense since not every one of them had experience dealing with bandits. Most of the Enforcers they had brought were having their first battles either way. Help the wounded, Kai rasped. His voice was rough with exertion. He was referring to the very few injured guards. Two soldiers scurried past him to tend to the guards. The others, less seriously injured, gritted their teeth and pulled themselves upright, muttering curses and heading to grab bandages to stop bleeding. Killian walked from behind. His armour was dented and scratched from the fight, his brow furrowed as he scanned through the area. Whats the plan for these bandits? he asked. Kai met his gaze, a stern glint in his eyes. "Trials, Killian. Justice according to the law. But first" He straightened, his gaze sweeping over the bandits. Many flinched under his gaze, some muttering amongst themselves. "We make an example," he declared, his voice cutting through the clearing. The air turned to a sudden tension as the bandits turned their heads towards him, a collective gasp escaping their lips. This wasn''t over. Not by a long shot. Especially Grekk over here. Kai kicked the boss of the bandits in his knee, earning a grunt from the man. He was alive but Kai could see from how he curled into a ball he wished he was better dead. A group huddled together took Kai''s attention soon, shuffling forward hesitantly, led by guards. Women, their eyes widened, lips quivering, were covering their mouths with shaky hands. Men had unmistakable marks of mine labour ragged clothes, darkened skin and even noticeable signs of malnutrition alongside beatings. Slaves. They were villagers stolen from nearby settlements and miners. Free them! Kais voice came through. Several soldiers moved forward in a hurry. They dropped their spears and started helping the slaves, looking for injuries and offering them waterskins from their packs. The slaves shuffled towards the soldiers, some collapsing in tears of gratitude. Find a few soldiers whore capable of helping them with their injuries, he added, his voice softening. He scanned the area once again. Beyond the circle of wounded and captives, the bandit encampment sprawled beneath a watchful mountain range. The mine itself loomed like a hungry abyss in the mountainside, flanked by a squat warehouse and crumbling watchtowers. Inhaling deeply, he noticed, the air here, heavy with the scent of iron and damp earth, felt different. A weird but usual sensation crawled up his spine, but there was an irregularity in the mana flow that his body recognized. He stopped, head tilting back. The sky was dark and heavy, common in the Frosania period. He inhaled again, feeling something that he wasn''t able to pinpoint as he looked at the crags. He narrowed his eyes. Kai cleared his throat, wanting to say what he felt, but he was disturbed by the hooves that shattered the silence. His head snapped towards it, eyes narrowing as a lone rider came from the entrance. Kai had assumed he was a merchant of sorts, but there was no reason for him to be here. Especially when he already rejected his appeal to follow him. The traveller grinned as Kai met his eyes. Kai noticed something. There was something no someone two figures trailing behind him. Thick rope dragged them through the crusty ground, the horse carrying all the weight. He looked at Killian who was gaping at the scene. They both turned and looked at the traveller. Kai let his frown be clear to the traveller. The last time they met, he couldnt even get his name simply because it didnt matter. But now, Kai was genuinely curious and partially annoyed. The traveller got off his mount with a grunt, the ropes slackening as the unconscious figures slumped to the ground with a loud thud. "Found these two skulking around the back of the mountains," the traveller said aloud. They looked like bandits and after a punch or two, they accepted it, so I got them here. Figured you could use the extra prisoners." He grinned as if he was very proud of his achievement. Accidentally killed one of their mates there by the way. He was a loudmouth and I didn''t like it." Kai stepped forward, looking at the traveller sceptically. There was just something he didn''t understand when he looked at him. His gaze narrowed as he locked eyes with the traveller. The nonchalant shrug, the casual mention of death, it all sat wrong. What were you doing there? I thought I told you not to follow. The traveller met his stare unflinchingly. The grin was glued to his face annoyingly. Im sorry I was curious, so I had been watching. I didn''t want to get in your way. Good battle you had there, Lord Arzan. Though I confess, I was surprised to see that the rumours of your lordship being a Mage are true." What is your name? Kai asked, ignoring his last words. Does it matter? I thought there would be a reward for capturing these. The man asked, ignoring Kais question. Kai''s hand twitched instinctively towards the spear as a flicker of rage passed through his eyes. The traveller''s smile faltered, replaced by a grimace. With a muttered curse, he bowed low. "My apologies, my lord. I didnt mean to come off too strong. Im Ansel, and Im asking for forgiveness." Kai nodded. This man wasnt something he needed to deal with at the moment. He might be a wandering, curious warrior trailing the lands, not someone to give too much heed to. Though, for his help, he was going to help set him up on lodging and even some food. Ansel certainly looked like he needed food, going by his skeletal frame. Therefore, he gave him one last look and turned to Killian, he gestured towards the mine entrance. "We need to check the iron mines." Killian raised an eyebrow. "The warehouse was clear," he rumbled. "Inventory records all accounted for. Seems no one was eager to buy bandit-mined iron." "It''s not the iron I''m worried about," Kai replied, a hint of urgency creeping into his voice. "There''s something else down there. A feeling" He trailed off, struggling to articulate the prickling sensation in the air. Killian studied him for a moment but didn''t voice out any thoughts. With a curt nod, he barked out orders. Several guards stiffened. "Four of you," Killian yelled, his voice raspy. "Escort the new prisoners. The rest, with us." Kai turned towards the mine entrance, his boots crunching on scattered branches and dust. As he walked, a voice called him from behind. Lord Arzan? The traveller from behind jogged forward. Will it be alright if I just joined to look at the mines? With a sigh, Kai looked at him and didn''t see a reason to refuse now that Ansel was already here. "Fine," he conceded. "You can come. But keep your mouth shut unless spoken to. Ansel grinned before his expression vanished back to a neutral mask. Before he could move forward, from behind, a figure shuffled forward. Kai halted in his steps. He was among the few they had rescued from the bandits. His clothes were patched and worn and his face etched with exhaustion. "My lord," he said, bowing low. "I I overheard what you said. Im Barold, I''ve been working here for quite some time as a miner. Thank you for saving my life. I had almost given up on it. Kai nodded, signalling him to get to the point. If you''re heading into the mines, I can help. I know these tunnels better than anyone." Kai studied the man for a moment. He needed someone who knew these tunnels, and this miner seemed the logical choice. "Alright," he finally said. "Lead the way. And tell me about the bandits'' operation here." Barold straightened and started walking. "They captured us when we were returning from a day''s duty months back. Killed the guards stationed here and took over it. Forced us to mine for days on end with barely enough food to survive. And and they kidnapped people from nearby villages, forced them to work alongside us." His voice choked as he talked. "No pay, just threats and beatings. A few even committed suicide due to that." Kai frowned. Even if he was used to hearing such stuff, a part of him couldn''t help but blame Arzan for not being proactive enough. Don''t worry, we will give you all compensation and help you recover. Barold''s eyes shone. His lips pursed as his hands came together. Thank y-you. Kai nodded. Barold turned and plunged into the darkness of the mine entrance. Kai and others simply followed; the flickering torchlight painted shadows on the damp walls. The air grew thick and stale with the scent of iron. Kai felt a claustrophobic feeling as he walked. It reminded him of the days he was trapped in the Sorcerer''s Tower library with no way out and mana fiends roaming the upper levels. It had worked out in the end as he had gotten a new chance at life. Focusing ahead, the mine was dark and the walls were narrow. It was a bit hard with the guards with such little space. Still, they kept moving forward. Minutes felt like hours as they went further and further. The scent of stale iron grew stronger, but Kais senses were focused on what he detected before. Suddenly, he stopped, a hand raised in the air. Barold, startled, stumbled to a stop a pace behind him. "What is it, my lord?" the miner asked, his voice echoing eerily in the confined space. Kai remained motionless for a moment, brow furrowed in concentration. His hand twitched, a faint blue glow emanating from his fingertips. He tried to feel the mana in the surroundings. "Something feels strange," he murmured, his voice low. "There''s a pressure here, a resistance I can''t quite explain." He swept his gaze across the rough wall, the torches glinting off a faint seam in the rock. Barold squinted at the spot Kai was indicating. "There, my lord? That might be one of the old tunnel entrances. Sealed shut decades ago." He ran a calloused hand along the seam, a flicker of unease crossing his face. "Goes deep, but no one bothers with it. Leads down to the backside of the mountain range. It''s been decades since anyone had entered." Kai kept staring at the wall, his senses flickering. He knew there was something inside of it and he had to see it for himself. "Get everyone back," he ordered, his voice leaving no room for argument. "I need to do something." Barold and the others exchanged nervous glances, but they obeyed without question. As they retreated, Kai raised his hand, the blue glow intensifying. He muttered a short incantation. Exanimo Fervens! It was a 2nd circle spell better known as [Shatter Stone] and was simply used to shatter stone walls created by Mages specialising in earth magic most of the time. Here, it would be good enough to break the wall. Soon, his spell structure came to life and with a deafening boom, a section of the sealed wall exploded outwards, showering the tunnel floor with dust and debris. Ansel started coughing from behind as the dust hit his nostrils. Kai looked back and saw the miner close his ears and the guards covering their noses and mouths. Killian gaped at the opening, a deep frown on his face. The rest of the guards had a similar expression etched on their faces. "My lord," Barold stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "That that slope goes very deep. We might not have enough rope to" Kai cut him off with a shake of his head. The pull he felt, the strange mana fluctuations he''d sensed earlier, it all converged on this hidden passage. "There''s something down there," he said. "And I intend to find out what it is. We''ll be careful," he promised, his voice firm. Turning to Killian, he requested, "Get me a rope! A long one." sea??h th Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Several guards scurried forward, securing a thick coil of hempen rope to an anchor point near the entrance. After a bit of discussion, it was decided Killian and a few guards would go with them too. With a nod, Kai tied one end around his waist, the reassurance of a lifeline settling in his stomach. Killian secured the other end around his own, a silent question hanging in his eyes. After making sure the weight of a sturdy rock on the side was keeping it intact alongside the guards, they decided to head in. Don''t worry too much," Kai murmured, meeting Killian''s gaze. "I can feel something. A pull, a dissonance in the mana flow. There is no time for a full explanation. he started walking in. The air grew thick and humid as they headed down, the flickering torchlight barely penetrating the oppressive darkness. The passage sloped downwards at a steep angle, forcing them to walk with careful steps. The drip of water echoed through the tight space. Suddenly, Killian''s voice cut through the heavy silence. "What is this place?" He gestured ahead, his voice tinged with awe. They had come into a vast cavern. The rough walls were no longer the defining feature for them or what grabbed their attention. Instead, the ceiling and walls were studded with countless shimmering blue stones. They pulsed with a familiar energy mana, making him feel a tingling sensation in his spine. They also acted as a source of dim light. Everyone stared at them and were all too stunned to speak. Finally, Kai broke the silence. "Atheum," he whispered, his voice reverent. "Or more commonly known mana stones." A low rumble echoed through the cavern, sending a shiver down Kais body, but he ignored it. Arent they incredibly rare? Killian asked. They are known as the hardest materials to get and Mages and Nobles pay their yearly savings on it easily. I never thought I would see them here. Kai was about to nod, but a chilling realisation dawned on him suddenly, a thought cold enough to make him look back at the glow of these mana stones. These werent just a source of power they were a beacon. They were the source of concentrated mana, and as the ancient texts spoke of it, they were quite irresistible to magical creatures more specifically, monsters. With this cave overflowing with mana stones It would be a siren song for any monster. The rumble he heard before intensified. The ground trembled beneath their feet. Kai whipped his head upwards, cursing himself in his head. High above, he saw something clinging to the ceiling similar to a spider, the size of a wild boar even larger? In the blue light, segmented exoskeleton showed, mandibles the size of logs crawled down slowly, patiently for the right moment. A monstrous larva. A monster," Kai growled, the word heavy with dread. "This place it''s a feeding ground! he whispered His gaze swept across the area, a desperate plan forming in his mind. "We need to get out of here. Now!" - comments and reviews are appreciated!! Patreon: /extra26Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 40. Vermala A low roar came from the monster who spotted the group of individuals. A red glow radiated from its multifaceted eyes. The sight was scary, but at that moment, they couldnt afford to run anywhere else. Kai started slowly moving, one step behind the other. He wanted to get out of there as soon as possible, but before he could turn around, a sickening skittering sound broke the silence. The monster launched from the ceiling, its segmented body twisting and turning as it slid towards them. Kilian roared, pulling his sword up, willing to take on if any attack swung their way. But Kai was faster. His reflexes kicked in. With just a flicker of his wrist, he cast a [Fire bolt]. A blazing bolt of fire erupted from his fingertips. It streaked through the air and slammed into the larvas underbelly with a loud boom. A sizzle filled the air as flesh burnt. Kai felt the guards withdrawing themselves back as he decided to handle as much as he could. The larva recoiled, a shriek echoing through the walls. Burning ichor dripped from its wounded section, but the injury seemed to only enrage it further. Kai unleashed three more [Fire Bolts] in a row. Each hitting the exact position where the first hit. Although the monster wiggled left and right, he seemed to have the perfect aim due to its large body. But soon, a primal scream ripped the air. The monster slammed itself into the wall next to them. The entire place shook, bringing down a few rocks from the ceiling and dust covered their vision momentarily. The guards waved their hands to push away the dust as they coughed while Kai threw two more [Fire bolts] at the monster, earning earth-shattering noises. The guards turned around, trying to get out of there. Due to his fire bolts, he was able to momentarily see far into the room. Deciding to check something, he cast a trinket spell to light up the cave. A ball of light floated from his other hand to the centre of the cave and he froze. His heart rate increased. He had the plan to distract the monster and run But now a sinking feeling filled his heart. The place was teeming with larvae! Dozens of the monstrous creatures clung to the walls, their multifaceted eyes fixed on them with a predatory glint. The black shiny things made Kais skin crawl. "Everyone escape!" Kai screamed. As he realised his fire bolts were burning parts of the monsters, he unleashed another fireball in a desperate attempt to buy them more time. It struck another larva, igniting its body. A painful but throaty shriek came out. But instead of dying, it opened its dark mouth and spat a ball of viscous green ooze. Kai barely stopped it with a fireball, the two substances meeting in mid-air. The green goo exploded in a shower of caustic acid. It fell on the ground, melting the very surface. He looked around after seeing the acidic burn momentarily buying them time from them launching themselves forward. He wanted to quickly run from this forsaken place, but the area behind them was hard to climb even with the rope. Fortunately, guards were scrambling over him. Sweat covered their faces, but their limbs were tight and quick as they pulled everyone one after another through the opening by the rope. Killian went right before him. Kai felt a hand grasp his wrist. Come on, Lord Arzan! Killians voice came hurriedly. He gave a final glance at the writhing mass of larvae, and flung another fireball, getting a precious few seconds. Then, with a surge of adrenaline, he launched himself upwards, his gloved hands making contact with the rough stone. Guards were already on top and Kai quickly climbed the rope, not giving the monsters any time to come closer. As he kept up at it, he fired more bolts at the larvae. While doing so, his shoulders struck a sharp stone jutting out and he cursed. He kept at it and in just two minutes, he was almost there. Killian scrambled to push himself through the opening and guards pulled him up. The same happened with Kai as stronger arms lifted him, dragging him back into the tunnel. He sighed as he landed before the opened maw and scrambled back. Run away from it! Killian ordered. Soon, all of them started running through the tunnel, away from the hole where they could hear the thud of claws scraping against the stone. Even Ansel, Barold and the rest of the guards who hadn''t gone into the sealed part ran, having seen glimpses of the monsters living there. The larvaes tremors shook the cave but calmed down as they ran until their lungs started to burn. Kai couldnt help but think as they reached the original tunnel entrance and jogged through the opening. As soon as they were out, they hunched over and started breathing heavily. Kai looked at everyone to see if there were any injuries, but no, they were all fine. Seal this opening later, they wouldnt come past where Atheum is for now as it''s too much of a climb and they would want to protect their energy source. But, we dont know whats in the cards for the future, Kai muttered through heavy breaths, his eyes focusing on the few guards who stood before him. They nodded, understanding the depth of the situation. Sar?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The other guards were still horrified by what they saw in the depths of the cave. Killian stood beside him, his normally stoic face was turned to a frown, sweat covering his eyebrows. Even Ansel, who looked quite confident before, couldn''t hide the tremor in his hand as he gripped his clothes. "That that wasnt a dungeon, was it?" Ansel asked, staring at the mine opening. Ive never seen something like this before! he yelled in the last part. Kai shook his head, the movement itself sent a spike of pain through his shoulder. No, he croaked, his voice hoarse. Those were vermal larvae or just vermala. Monstrous creatures that thrive on raw mana. These weren''t simple monsters, but living conduits for destruction, drawn to the stones like moths to a flame. From what he knew, they were extremely dangerous, especially in a pack like this. Kai pressed on, his voice gaining strength with each word. "Vermala gather around large deposits of mana, forming a kind of hive." He gestured towards the entrance. "And at the heart of every hive, a queen is ruling over them." We didn''t see anything like that there. Most of them were identical to each other, Killian said. It''s probably much bigger than we expected and the queen is in her room. Kai shrugged his shoulders, hoping to explain more about them. He rubbed his hands together, feeling the sudden noticeable chill in the environment. Maybe it was because of the implications the larvae might have on his territory. "Well, as I was saying, the queen is a monstrous creature that lays eggs, replenishing the swarm. Leave them unchecked, and that larva will break through those walls, consume the entire mine, and spread outwards. The bandits" He trailed off. "They were doomed either way." The guards exchanged nervous glances. "How do we deal with that?" One of them asked, speaking for them all. The other lot nodded their heads. Kai took a few seconds to himself. He thought back to what he knew about them as his eyes hardened. Recalling their strength and the size of the whole hive, there was only one option they had. "We clear the nest," he said, his voice leaving no room for argument. "But not today." He swept his gaze over the assembled soldiers. They were all tired, but trying to stay tall and strong. "We''re depleted, low on supplies. This requires planning." A murmur of assent rippled through the ranks. All of them knew that charging headfirst into a monster den was asking for a disaster. "We''ll reinforce the entrance, make sure it holds for now." Kai grimaced. "For now," he echoed, the weight of the unseen threat pressing down on him. Those Vermala wouldn''t stay dormant forever. With each passing day, they''d grow stronger, and hungrier. He needed a solution, and fast. "I''ll need to work on some things," he muttered, more to himself than anyone else. Alchemical concoctions, tactical formations, anything to give them an edge against that monstrous brood. This wasn''t just about securing the mine anymore. This was about safeguarding the entire region from a tide of ravenous destruction. They started walking towards the area where the rest of their forces were waiting alongside the captured bandits and slaves. Ready to move, Lord Arzan? Killian asked and he nodded. He had expected that with the bandits gone, things would be peaceful, but it seemed like his fate wasn''t going to let him relax. At least with the Atheum present there, he might just be able to treat it as an opportunity. Still before that, he had to eradicate the larvae. It was a long road to Veralt and a longer battle ahead. *** The journey back was a grim procession. The bandits, bound and gagged, were dragged along by their horses, their roughspun clothes torn and bloodied. The sound of scraping of their knees and hands on the dusty road was a grim counterpoint to the clopping of hooves. Word of their return had spread like wildfire. As they neared Veralt, villagers lined the road, their faces a mixture of curiosity and trepidation. But when they saw the fallen bandits, a collective cheer erupted. The whole way was like a hero group coming back from defeating the demon king. The bandits have terrorised the lands for too long and seeing them dragged gave everyone a reason to be happy after a long time. Kai reigned on his horse before the bustling town square, the cheers washing over him like a wave. Their cheerful eyes said it all, but he knew he needed to make a statement. He dismounted, his gaze sweeping over the multitude of jubilant faces. They were all gathered there now, waiting for Kai to speak but their cheer took over the air. Voices of different ages and maturity spoke unrecognisable things. Raising his hand for silence, his voice hoarse but firm. "The bandits are gone," he said aloud. "They''ve terrorised this land for too long, taking your livelihood, your peace. But now, justice has been served." A fresh wave of cheers rose, louder this time, punctuated by shouts of gratitude and praise. Kai raised a hand again, silencing the clamour. "This," he continued, his voice cutting through the exhilaration, "is a reminder. A reminder that unlawfulness will not be tolerated. Anyone who will try to go against the rules and harm the common citizens will be dealt with." His words hung in the air like a warning. As for the punishment, I would gladly allow the law to do its work. But, I believe they deserve something special! Kai said, his eyes glinting something mischievous. The crowd waited, whispering what it might be. He had thought about different punishments to give to the bandits. Not only were they a nuisance, but Arzan''s not being able to deal with them added to his low reputation in Veralt. He needed to change it now and this was the best way. I will allow ten slaps by all of you on each of them daily, as theyd be tied up on the square, right where we are now for the next week! A primal roar of approval erupted from the crowd, a sound far darker than the joyous cheers that had greeted their return. Villagers, their eyes gleaming with a cold, unforgiving light, surged forward like a wave. "Let me at ''em!" a burly man said aloud, his face contorted with rage. "They stole away the swords I made when I was delivering them." A wiry woman, her clothes patched and worn, shook her fist at the bound bandits. I will never forgive you for slaving my son!" Miners, their faces etched with the hardship inflicted by the bandits, shared a lookC a silent, predatory grin. Soon, bets were placed amongst them, not on coin flips or the roll of dice, but on who could deliver the most punishing slap. Kai watched the men walking forward, women cheering from the sides. It was almost chaotic and he had to tell the guards to make sure they didn''t end up killing the bandits. Still, it was amusing. He felt no remorse for them. In his mind, they were lucky he hadn''t tried to give them a punishment himself. *** Ansel pinched himself in his hand to make sure he wasnt living in a dream. Standing at the back of the crowd, he watched the guards make a line and bind the bandits on the town''s square. The people took turns punching and kicking them. Every time someone would land a hard slap, a cheer would erupt. The hardest cheers went up when Grekk was being trashed. A few people even threw rocks at him and laughed. It was truly a scene he had never seen anywhere else. His eyes soon moved to watch Lord Arzan moving towards his horse to leave for his estate. Ansel had been wrong in his initial doubts about him. He had watched the battle in the settlements and seen every bit of how he had overwhelmed the bandits like they were kids. Even in the mines, he had shown a lot of courage. Ansels eyes loomed over Lord Arzan until he turned around a corner. Originally, he had come there to depart after a week, but there might be a change in plans now. - A/N; hi there, it''s the author here. you can read ahead of updates on, Patreon: /extra26 & you can join to become a beta reader with many perks in my server, invite/nc3hVSCP2n 41. The queen’s dilemma The morning coldness bit at Kais skin, but it couldnt cool away the fire that simmered in his gut. After he came back from the square, he was notified that the bandits were tied up and the slaves were helped. They were also in the process of getting them back to their families. But it wasnt what gave him a weird knot in his stomach, it was about what lay in the future. It was about what he saw inside the mine. He sighed. He raised a hand, casting the spell to activate [Hawk eyes], and pushing mana through his veins. The familiar sensation of the enhanced vision washed over him, transforming the bustling city square below into a detailed tableau. He looked at the central figure the makeshift pillory erected for the captured bandits. People walked by, occasionally glancing at the bandits and a small crowd circled them. Even from this far away, he could see the raw hatred that was on their faces noses scrunched, shouting curses at the bandits. A half-eaten cabbage arced through the air, splattering harmlessly against a bandits arm. It was the only food that flew and next, a well-aimed rock found its mark, eliciting a yelp of pain. A single guard stood near the pillar, his face twisted in a smirk rather than concern. He looked like a bored spectator rather than a protector, content to make sure the entertainment didnt turn fatal. He was there to make sure the bandits didn''t have any serious injuries. Although he was giving them punishment, he had to still apply the kingdom''s law and send them to the cells. It was a strange thing. Despite it being thousands of years in the past, the kingdom had strict laws and regulations that were meant to be followed by all nobles and commoners alike. No wonder it had been able to become an empire in the future. The foundations were always there. His hawk eye flickered, zooming in on a rough calendar that was drawn into the wooden post of the pillory. Seven deep gouges marked the days, a countdown to the bandits release or rather, their transfer to the cold, impersonal confines of the jail. He lowered his hands, the light blue light disappearing. It looked like the people were all enjoying the punishment given to the bandits. And again, who could blame them? His brow remained furrowed. His thoughts started shifting between the day that the bandits would be imprisoned andC "Admiring the birds, Lord Arzan?" a gentle voice inquired from beside him. Claire stood nearby, a tray of untouched breakfast balanced on a silver platter. His thoughts were interrupted, but he quickly remembered that he was the one requested for breakfast on the terrace. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai offered a wry smile. "Not exactly, Claire. Just keeping an eye on things." "Ah," she replied, her voice laced with a hint of curiosity. "The bandits, then? With the distance, they must appear quite small from here." He chuckled, appreciating her subtle way of inquiring without overstepping. "Something like that. It''s a spell that allows me to see clearly from afar." Claire''s eyes widened and twinkled in a way they would whenever he would show her a new spell. It seemed like she treated them like how children treated magic tricks. That sounds like a great spell to keep a watch over the city," she said, her eyes shifting to a more earnest level. "You''ve done well for us. There was quite a celebration on my street last night. Many miners were there, men who lost their jobs because of those brigands." Kai nodded, a frown crossing his features. "I appreciate that, Claire. But the truth is, this isn''t entirely over yet." He gestured towards the square, his gaze hardening slightly. "The mines they still remained closed. The monsters we encountered down there pose a serious threat. Until we deal with them, miners cannot return to work. So, you see. I havent quite solved it all yet." Claire''s smile faltered for a moment, but she straightened her back. Then you''ll deal with them, Lord Arzan," she declared, her voice firm. "You always do." Claire''s faith in him made him smile. It was good to know that he had everyones support inside the castle. It was better than whatever Arzan had and if things continued like this, he might just be able to do his own things without worrying. "But how can you be so confident?" he asked, a genuine curiosity lacing his voice. "This isn''t just a band of bandits. These monsters down in the mine they''re dangerous." She set the tray down on a nearby table, and the clatter of fine silver was heard. She turned to face him, her gaze steady and unwavering. "Because, Lord Arzan," she explained, "You haven''t disappointed us since you started to work on the castle. You''ve found ways to protect Veralt, to solve whatever problem that was there. So, I believe you would deal with things again. I go out in the streets and a lot of people think similar. He smiled. It was a genuine reassurance, but something tugged on his mind. "That''s a heavy burden to bear, Claire. "Perhaps" She lowered her eyes for a moment, thinking about it. "But then again, you always seem to manage just fine. So, Lord Arzan" she said, unsure of her own thoughts. Kai nodded. The responsibility came with stakes, even for him, personally. But he was willing to accept it. Ill see what I can do." He glanced at the pristine breakfast. I would need some fuel before I think about tackling those monsters." Claire slightly bowed, knowing the conversation was over and excused herself after putting the food on the table. A cold wind flew and hit him in his neck as he sighed. Kais mind flooded again with all the problems. Some were unavoidable, and some needed instant solutions. Either way, breakfast comes first. He bit into the piece of bread, the cold air nipping at his cheeks as he watched the birds cautiously stepping on a snow-laden branch in unison. *** Franciss administration office was packed with Killian, Kai and of course, Francis. Spread across the polished table was a series of carefully drawn sketches and detailed notes. More specifically, Franciss report on the Vermala larvae they had encountered in the mine. Kai had told him to prepare one and fortunately, it seemed like these monsters would sometimes appear around areas with high mana density and were a pain for a lot of Mages, so there was sufficient research on them. Killians lips pursed and his hand on his chin traced a finger on one of the sketches. Over fifty of them, he rumbled, his voice heavy with concern. Thats a sizable nest. It seemed like there could even be more, but I don''t think there''s that much space. Kai nodded grimly. His eyes too, were on the sketches and the reports that were in front of them. And thats not including the queen, he added, tapping another sketch of a monstrous creature. Its the heart of the hive, the source of their power. The queen possesses an organ that acts like a mana reservoir. It not only fuels its own power but also projects an aura that boosts the strength and morale of the surrounding larvae. Until it''s dealt with, we won''t be able to win. Francis threw the cigar that was in his mouth to the side of his desk and leaned forward. Killian slowly nodded, his eyes drawing in between Kai and Francis. "So we take out the queen, the rest of them crumble?" Kai cleared his throat. "Not entirely crumble, Killian. They will still be formidable opponents, but considerably weaker without the queen''s influence. However, taking it down will be no easy feat." He paused for a moment and studied the sketch of the queen he had drawn himself from what he recalled from his memories. "In fact, it wouldnt be easy at all," he said. "But it''s the only way. We can''t afford a prolonged battle with a swarm of those things at our backs." Killian nodded. Also, what are we going to do about her eggs? Kai frowned. It was the only reason they were hurrying with the clearing of the nest. It was common knowledge that the queen of the Vermala hatched its eggs at the end of the months of Frosania. If they didn''t hurry, they might just have to deal with double the number of larvae. Larvae grew fast, so it would only take two to three weeks for the new ones to reach adulthood. If that happened, there was no guarantee they would even be able to exterminate them. Once we deal with the queen, we will burn them. That''s the only way to make sure the mine is safe. Kai looked at both of them. "We''ll need everything. Potions, traps, whatever advantage we can muster. And we''ll need to move quickly before those larvae get any stronger. The longer we delay, the worse." Killian nodded curtly. "The guards are ready, Lord Arzan. They''re well-trained, but" he hesitated, his brow furrowed. "We can''t take many. Maybe ten more than the ones that were with you against the necromancer. Training takes time, and we don''t have much of that. Enforcers should be of great help." Francis cleared his throat, grabbing their attention. "Even with ten more, Lord Arzan," he interjected. "Most of the city guards haven''t seen real battle, let alone fought underground. The necromancer fight is good learning, but this is entirely different. This is no walk in the park. We need a plan that minimises casualties, not throws untrained men into a monster pit." Kai winced, the memory of the fallen soldiers against the necromancer flashing through his mind. He had regretted a few things from the fight with the necromancer, and losing guards was a big part of it. "You''re right, Francis," he admitted. He sighed while his hands stroked the growing stubble. "We can''t afford another bloodbath. If we don''t plan this with proper measurements, the cost will be too high. A tense silence settled over the room, the weight of the situation pressing down on them. They needed a solution, and fast. Training more guards was an option, but the urgency of the situation wouldn''t allow for a lengthy training session. They all thought what better could they do? Even Kai fell into deep thought and the only thing that moved was the wind outside the windows. A few ideas came to his mind, but he rejected them all, one after another. Too risky, too vague, cant and wont work in such a short time, guards too untrained to do it reasons piled up higher than the solutions. "Mercenaries?" Francis finally spoke, his voice a hesitant question. Both Kai and Killian looked at him. Kai was about to speak but Killian snorted. "Finding good ones is a gamble, and even then, loyalty tends to be a luxury they charge extra for." Francis steepled his fingers, his brow furrowed in thought. "True, but desperate times call for desperate measures. For the right coin, they''ll take the job. They might not be loyal, but they''ll be skilled." Kai mulled it over. The risks were undeniable, but they were running out of options. In his previous life, mercenaries were known by a lot of names and there were designated ones like fiend hunters. They also followed a more structured system with an organisation handling them called the guild. From his research, he knew that wasn''t the case here. So, finding good ones might be a problem. As he thought more, an idea popped up. "Francis," he said, a decision forming in his mind. "Reach out to Malden. He should know the mercenary market better than us. See if he can find us a group with a verifiable track record." Francis'' face lit up with a flicker of hope. "For sure, Lord Arzan. I''ll send word first thing in the morning." "In the meantime," Kai continued, turning his gaze towards the window, it was getting darker darker than it usually was due to Frosania. "I can be of some use. Potions, of course healing draughts to keep our men fighting fit. I can brew them and I might have other ideas in mind as well." he rubbed his hands together, deep in thought. "For that, though, I''ll need some space. A workshop of sorts." Francis didn''t hesitate. "Consider it done, Lord Arzan. I''ll clear out a suitable room immediately. Whatever you need, you''ll have it." Kai nodded. In a way, it was much easier to obtain materials in this period of time. In his time, resources were extremely rare, especially for alchemy and due to that, alchemists were dime a dozen. Few countries had even gone to war just because of resources to use in alchemy and other magical arts. Compared to that, everything was in abundance here. It was truly the era before the golden era and he knew he could take full benefit of it. He started to walk back after completing the meeting. A monster nest to purge It was the next on his list. - hi there, it''s the author here. you can read ahead of updates on, Patreon: /extra26 & you can join to become a beta reader with many perks in my server, invite/nc3hVSCP2n 42. Is that a dragon? Frosania was coming to an end. Amyra could feel it as she looked outside the window. From the position where she was, she could see the frost that hung tenaciously to the landscape for months was finally loosening its grip, revealing patches of green. The syncing thwack of training swords echoed from the distant courtyard. She inhaled to sigh, but the aroma of warm bread and honeyed fruits filled her nostrils. Amyra picked up a piece of bread. It was toasted the crispy crust made a noise to her touch. She started chewing on it slowly, noticing no more pain when she did. The ache in her jaw was completely healed. She quickly grabbed the cup of water and drank some of it. A glance at her arms caught her eye. No longer were they marred by the angry red gashes and bruises. She sighed. Arzan had properly healed her, visiting every other day, pouring his magic onto her skin, making it smooth and unmarked. A warm and heavy feeling settled in her chest. Gratitude. She was grateful that Arzan found her when he did. If not for him, there wouldnt be a day that she would taste bread this fresh. But, beneath the surface, a slight fear remained. It was the memories of the necromancer''s chilling touch. She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to push the images away. Despite her efforts, more images popped up of time before the necromancer found her. Those were even more grotesque and for a while, she heard painful screams in her ears. The days of confinement, watching numerous deaths and finally running away only to get caught by another evil man. Stop! She shook her head, frowning and managing to end it. When she opened her eyes, the urge to look around took over. She didn''t want to sit around only for those memories to haunt her again. Amyra hasnt been in the place for too long. Four walls, a plush bed, and a monotonous routine were her now reality. Her hands itched for the door, to open it and walk around, but she paused. Finally mustering up the courage, she opened it, reaching the corridor immediately. As she stepped outside, there was a staircase adjacent. Her one aim was not to get caught by a maid, guard or worse, Arzan. She took one step at a time, her bare feet cold against the floor. She walked gently, trying to not make any noise. Taking the stairs to the ground floor, she decided to venture there first. As she reached it, she saw a door on the far side and stepped towards it. The door opened to the outside. The chilly air hit her in the face. She could see the estate, buildings, the courtyard and even the water fountain. It truly has been too long since she had been outside. Unfamiliar faces were everywhere. Guards, staff and maids. She waited until most of them passed and then made her way through the courtyard. Finding herself in a building adjacent to the one she was staying in, she stepped towards it, finding the whole thing exciting in her heart. Fortunately, she found an open window and managed to climb through it. Another corridor was upon her and she didn''t waste any time standing idle. Tiptoeing her way quickly through different doors, she walked through large, polished oak doors. Adrenaline rushed to her body and she could hear her heart thrumming inside her chest. She hid behind an oak door, peeking at what was beyond through the little space that was beneath the door and the wall. It seemed like the kitchen. Maids walked from left and right hurriedly. All of them were busy with their own duties. Amyra remembered how Arzan once mentioned that even the maids knew who she was, and she could ask for anything from them. She watched through the space for a few minutes. Spoons clattering, vegetables chopping, voices of maids talking to each other about the gossip in the city and the estate. Amyra watched until one of the maids headed towards the door. She instantly took it as an invitation to head towards the stairs that stood on the right side. Her curiosity tugged at every corner of her being. Her feet were quick but silent. She passed walls of weaponaries and different frames on her way upstairs. As she reached the top floor, she paused for a moment to catch her breath. No one seemed to be around, but there was some sort of a noise echoing across the floor like someone was turning pages in a hurry. Her eyes squinted in curiosity. The sound came behind the wooden doors She mulled over the fact that it could be a library. Amyras shaky hands softly touched the door, trying to open it without making any squeaky noises. It was a success. She was inside. The wooden shelves garnered her attention. Tons of books were placed in them. She had been allowed to read and although they quelled her boredom, she had already finished with whatever was given to her. So, this was a surprise. She slowly walked through the shelves, wondering if she should take a book out, but just then, she froze. In the heart of the room, she immediately recognized Lord Arzan, his back to her. He was hunched over what looked like a workbench. She slowly hid behind the pillar that seemed to hold and balance the roof, hoping to not get caught as she watched him. From where she stood now, she could see his hands. The same hands that healed her were now on grey clay, moulding in the shape of a ball, He wiped his hands from the dirty cloth that was to his left and turned a few pages on the book to his front. Then, he frowned before squeezing the clay in frustration, making Amyra gasp slightly. The next second, his head snapped in a mere heartbeat before she could even hide herself properly. Both of them froze. *** As was his custom most mornings, Kai found himself hunched over a workbench in the library, his hands were busy moulding a lump of grey clay. Hed been so engrossed in the art of animating clay fingers that he hadnt heard a single noise of the door opening. But as he heard the gasp right behind her, he turned around, his eyes meeting Amyra and he froze. The ball of clay dropped to the floor as he stared into her golden eyes. A startled yelp escaped her lips. She clutched the pillar for a moment, as if unsure of what to do before her eyes looked at the door like she wanted to run away. "Amyra," Kai said, forcing a smile. "It''s good to see you out of your room. Must be stifling to be cooped up for so long." She offered a hesitant nod, her gaze flickering around the room before settling back on him. "If you want?" he asked, gesturing towards a nearby chair. Kai gestured for her to sit, a wave of relief washing over him as she did. He returned to his work on the clay, his brow furrowed in concentration. But something about the way her gaze kept trailing back to the lump of formless material piqued his curiosity. "Im trying to build up a golem from the clay. So far, its not been great for me, but yknow. Learning is a process, he said, glancing up at her. She nodded once again. Her eyes were glued to the clay, curiosity evident in them. "Golem?" she muttered, the word barely a whisper. Kai smiled, setting the clay figure down for a moment. "Golems," he echoed, "are essentially animated figures, created from clay or other materials. Think of them as well, imagine a powerful hero, a knight, a mage anything, really brought to life by magic, given a physical form from this very material." He tapped the clay for emphasis. "I''m trying to hone my skills in creating them." Amyra''s brow furrowed in confusion. The concept seemed alien to her, yet a spark of interest flickered in her eyes. "Creating heroes?" she repeated. Yes. He nodded. Seeing her interest, Kai set aside his partially formed golem and reached for another lump of clay. "Would you like to try?" he offered, a playful glint in his eyes. He was a bit surprised by how she walked inside without any guidance, but anything was better than distancing herself. More than that, Kai just enjoyed the company. Its always entertaining to learn with company rather than alone. Especially after his last few years in the Sorcerer''s Tower. By his question, Amyra looked surprised. She blinked. Her lips pursed, hesitation flickering slightly. But after a moment, she nodded, mirroring Kais smile. Kai kept the soft clay on the table and walked around, placing it in front of her. Soon, he went back to his previous task as she started on it. He did the same, hoping he would be able to make a good one this time. Silence filled over. The only sound was of the squelch of their fingers moulding the material. This time, Kai was trying to learn from his past mistakes as his muscle memory kicked in. He began shaping his clay into a miniature warrior, working on one side of it before moving to the next. Amyra, on the other hand, looked like she was having a hard time. Her clay figure, once just a blob, had morphed into something vaguely spiky. A tail, vaguely reptilian, sprouted from one end. Lumpy appendages, more looking like claws were on the sides. The whole thing was topped with a triangular head. Kai glanced at it for a second before focusing on his one, his fingernails helping to sculpt the fingers of the warrior. A peaceful hour passed by as they battled with the clay. Finally after so long, he looked at the golem that stood proudly, a miniature guardian barely two feet tall. It looked a bit rough at the edges and the sword he had made looked nothing like one. He had also messed up his face and armour, but compared to his first few tries, the improvement was clearly visible. He smiled before looking at Amyra''s piece. Unlike his work, her golem wasn''t easy to categorise and he kept looking at it for a while in confusion. It seemed like a monster of sorts with the way it was structured and the claws. Certainly not a human or a beastman. Just, it was rough and hard to make out. He tilted his head, squinting at whatever it was before him until he finally got it. "Not bad," he said, trying his best to keep a straight face. Amyra''s brow furrowed. "Not bad?" she echoed a hint of hope in her voice. "Not bad at all," Kai confirmed. "For a first try at a dragon, that is." sea??h th n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Amyra''s face immediately drained of colour. Her lips parted. Panic flooded her features as she sputtered, "But but it was supposed to be a bunny!" Kai froze, smiling wryly. Oh, his mouth opened to say something, something to make it better, but nothing came out. Amyra kept looking at her creation before lowering her head and pouting at Kai. *** Nightshade petals, elder wood root, water of purity, Francis muttered, tracing his finger down the list. These are readily available, Lord Arzan. Shops here are well-stocked with these things as a lot of them are used for cooking and other stuff too." The list was kept on the table as Kai observed Francis slowly going through the items he mentioned. He continued down the list, nodding in recognition at items like bat guano, brimstone powder, and vials of mercury. However, as his gaze reached the bottom, a frown creased his forehead. "Glowstone dust? Blackwood beast scales? And what in the world is ''Void Pinch''? These I haven''t encountered them before. Kai winced internally as he realised what he had done. He''d gotten so caught up in translating the knowledge from his past life that he hadn''t considered the names might not translate directly. Items might be known as something completely different or the monsters or plants they came from weren''t that common. After all, in thousands of years, the ecology has changed a lot. He had made this mistake because, in the books he read, he recognised a lot of ingredients. A few had different names, but they had the same function. Moreover, a lot of them were extremely rare and potent in his world. So, he had been excited to get his hands on them. "Don''t worry about the specifics, Francis," he said, a touch of sheepishness creeping into his voice. "Just acquire what you can from the marketplace. Focus on the general descriptions glowing dust from a luminous stone, tough scales from a large, winged creature, a rare herb with dark, almost inky flowers." Francis nodded slowly, a hint of confusion flickering in his eyes. "Very well, Lord Arzan. I''ll do my best to find... whatever a ''Void Pinch'' might be." Kai chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. "Let''s just say it''s not a common ingredient in here." He cleared his throat, changing the subject. "While you''re at the market, see if you can arrange a short patrol mission for the guards. Outside the city walls, of course. Tell them to focus on" He paused, considering his options. "Trolls," he finally decided. "And Emblem Elks, if they can find any. Their byproducts will be helpful for certain potions." Francis raised an eyebrow. "Emblem Elks, Lord Arzan? Those are quite rare and very aggressive. Are you sure?" "Desperate times," Kai said his thoughts aloud. "Besides, the guards need some practice, and those creatures shouldn''t be too difficult for a well-coordinated squad." "As you wish," Francis said, making a note on a separate parchment. "One more thing, Lord Arzan. I believe the leatherworker, Rosalind, is waiting outside. Would you like me to call her in?" Yes, sure, he said as Francis walked to tell a guard outside the door to call Rosalind. Every noble had their own people to make clothes and armour. The City of Veralt was the same. Specific people mastered the making of specific things and exclusively worked for nobles. Though today, he wasn''t looking to build leather armour. Francis frowned as he returned. I wonder, Lord Arzan he paused, glancing at his expressions. Why do you need Rosalind? Alchemy it can be a messy business. Fumes, explosions, strange concoctions bubbling away we can say that a lot of alchemists meet unfortunate ends thanks to their cauldrons bursting. That too, a lot of those deaths don''t even get out because it''s known as shameful. Franciss eyes widened. Then surely, Lord Arzan, a protective suit is a necessity. We can''t put your life into any kind of danger, he said before putting a hand on his chin. I believe something with reinforced stitching and a good hood to shield your face from those vapours would be a good fit. Kai nodded. A slow smile spread across his face. Precisely, that was my plan. he pointed at the parchments that were in front of them. Ive only seen top alchemists make one of those protective suits. Apprentices and novices usually work well, without them." Francis said hesitantly, "The dangers of alchemy simply haven''t crossed my mind, Lord Arzan." Kai sighed, a wry smile playing on his lips. This world, it seemed, hadn''t quite grasped the full spectrum of risks associated with alchemical experimentation. If he was right, most alchemist won''t even live too long spending their lives around the fumes. It was only by the end of the Golden era of magic that it had become a norm in alchemy with new apprentices giving suits of their own. Even then, from what he knew, it was because a genius alchemist had died in an explosion at a young age, prompting the ruling of such a law. "Think of it like a warrior going into battle without armour," he explained. "Sure, some might survive on luck and skill, but why tempt fate? A little protection goes a long way." A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Kai gestured for the person to enter and as it opened, it revealed a middle-aged woman with a confident stride walking in. Kai immediately noticed the callouses on her hands. "Rosalind Tannery, at your service, Lord Arzan," she announced, bowing her head respectfully. Kai nodded in return, appreciating the no-nonsense air about her. "Rosalind," he began, gesturing to the parchments. I have a request that''s a bit unconventional. I need a protective suit made from tough leather, preferably reinforced at the seams. Think of something that could withstand minor explosions and shield the wearer from noxious fumes." Rosalind''s eyes widened as she looked at the parchment. The request was certainly out of the ordinary, but her curiosity seemed to be piqued. She unfolded the parchment and studied the rough sketch he had drawn. It was a hooded suit with gloves and boots. "Interesting," she murmured, tracing the lines with a calloused finger. I haven''t made anything quite like this before. But a challenge is always welcome. Tell me, Lord Arzan, what kind of movement do you expect in this suit? Will you be standing over a cauldron most of the time, or will there be a lot of bending and reaching? Kai tapped his chin thoughtfully. "A good mix of both, I suppose. I''ll need to be able to move freely, but also be protected if something goes awry." Rosalind nodded. "Leave it to me, Lord Arzan," she said. "I''ll craft a suit that''s both durable and allows for flexibility. Give me a few days, and I''ll have something you''ll be pleased with." Kai returned a smile at those words. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 43. Potion making Having the space of a large estate had its own perks. One of them, Kai realized was the number of rooms at his disposal. Most of the guest rooms were empty, and storage rooms overflowed with forgotten trinkets, gifts received by the previous lord and just general items that had long been replaced leaving more unused space. He had decided to use one of those storerooms as his alchemical workshop. As he opened the wooden door with a creak, the scent of dust and disuse gave way to a more pleasant medley of woodsmoke and simmering herbs. The storeroom that had been cluttered was now his personal alchemy workshop. He had seen what was in the room before, and now seeing it after Francis had ordered the maids to clean it up while he oversaw it, it looked like another room itself. Sturdy wooden tables, their surfaces gleaming with a thin coat of oil replaced the dusty crates of the storeroom. Glass jars of various sizes, filled with different colours blues, greens, and fiery oranges lined the shelves against the wall. In the centre of the room, a large iron cauldron rested on a strong brick stand, its blackened belly showed that it wasnt a new one but instead a used one which wasn''t a big deal for him. Kai ran a satisfied hand over the smooth surface of a mortar and pestle. He would have to start his craft with what Francis could obtain from the market, and the selection of ingredients was far from ideal. There was no glowstone dust, no blackwood beast scales, and the closest hed gotten to Void Pinch was a pouch of something labelled Shadowbloom that looked suspiciously like common nightshade. But he has to manage what he receives. Creating portions from these could at least help their chances. In his former life, he wasnt exactly a novice when it came to alchemy. A third-grade Alchemist far from a master, but close enough to be considered an expert. He had spent hours learning it because his master had pushed the fact that a good Mage needs to have mastery of the magical arts. Therefore his mind was filled with knowledge of magical items, the properties of rare herbs, and the delicate art of potion-making. It wasnt the same here, of course. The ingredients were different, and the techniques he could use were slightly unfamiliar, but Kai believed that the core principles had remained the same. He might not be able to brew all the potions that he has practised making in his previous life, but with these basic ingredients, he could create potions that would give his men a fighting chance. Healing draughts, stamina enhancers, even rudimentary firebombs honestly, anything to tip the scales in their favour. Moreover, in this era, he could find ingredients without worry, so if he actually tried to ask Malden to search for them, he might be able to get his hands on stuff that had long past gone extinct when he had started his training. Thinking about it, he smiled and looked towards the cauldron. Now, it was time. Time to finally get on with making the potions. Two nights had gone by in trying to find all these ingredients and he didn''t want to waste more. First of all, he moved towards the safety equipment. Years of experience had made it natural for Kai to give priority to safety, especially after the experience of seeing one of his fellow apprentices blowing his head off right in front of him. The safety suit Rosalind created was amazing. A hood covered his face alongside a mask, and the measurements she had done were perfect. There were gloves and everything was covered. In the case of an explosion, he was sure that he would easily survive. Even if she was known to be a master in what she did, Kai silently expected that there would be adjustments that needed to be made. But it seemed like Rosalind understood what could be expected in alchemy. Kais hands raked over his clothes one last time. The final touch he cast a simple protection spell, [Eye shield]. It was a simple spell that would protect his eyes from flashy lights and fumes, especially when he worked around the cauldron. sea??h th N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. With that done, he walked towards the table in front of the shelves that had jars and vials. Looking at what was displayed, he noted where everything was and placed whatever he needed on the table. He went back to the cauldron and lit it up. Kai began. He reached for the first ingredient a bundle of Nightshade leaves and Nightshade dust, a pale imitation of the Void Pinch he craved. He crushed them into a fine powder, releasing a pungent aroma that filled the air. With that, Kai pushed his mana out. That was to enhance the effects of the ingredients. He poured the Nightshade powder into the bubbling cauldron, whispering an incantation under his breath. His mana, a subtle blue energy, went from his fingertips, weaving through the air. The goal was simple, a health potion. Therefore, a majority of the products were herbs. A few minutes passed by as his mana gelled with the herbs, and then he started mixing the ingredients slowly. As he stirred, he focused on manipulating his mana to get the effect out of the herbs. They turned blue before slowly turning into shades of purple. He started adding colourless water of purity and elder wood roots. It all blended in quickly as the bright purple began to sparkle. He mixed it all with a ladle, being careful about the amounts of ingredients he had used. Soon, it started giving off a certain aroma which meant he was in the right direction. The final step was to add the byproducts of Emblem Elks. Kai held his breath, waiting for the potion to stabilize. He continued to manipulate the fire and the ingredients using his mana. The ingredients were no longer there to be seen. The bubbly water started to sparkle. But its aggression made Kai hesitate with the ladle. He held his breath, waiting for something to happen. Although he had put in efforts to make sure he had all the ingredients right, he had used a few replacements he wasn''t sure would fit. It was very dangerous normally since you never know how a particular ingredient would react to another, but Kai had been fairly confident in his eye. Now, it was time to find out if he had been right. A few seconds passed by as he waited and stared at the potion. Slowly, the bubbling subsided and a sigh of relief escaped his lips. But soon, his relief shattered by a sudden hiss. Fumes, acrid and pungent blasted from the cauldron. He reacted instantly. He flung open the window, forcing the fumes to escape. The air was getting thicker and stronger making him cough. He wiped the tear from his eye. Soon, the smoke disappeared through the window and the air felt better. His eyes immediately went to the potion. Thankfully, the cauldron looked like it was unaffected. The bubbles calmed down. It was not blue anymore, or purple but green. At one glance, he could proudly say that it was what it was supposed to look like other than the colour. But has he created the portion properly? With some hesitation, Kai dipped the ladle into the potion, a small amount clung to the wood. He brought it to his lips, wondering what spell to use if things go wrong. He tasted it a little, but the sound of the door opening made him drop the ladle down. A flustered Francis burst into the room. Lord Arzan! Francis exclaimed. What is it? Malden has returned, and and hes brought mercenaries with him. Kai immediately put down the ladle. He could come and taste this later or even try making this once again from the beginning. The mercenaries were a priority. *** Malden fidgeted under the weight of four pairs of eyes. Hed taken a gamble. He stood in between the four mercenaries hed managed to scrape together after getting his information network in place and going through the profiles of several mercenaries. Lord Arzan had requested him to bring mercenaries for a good price of gold coin. He had promptly accepted it since it meant that he was being relied upon and going by his calculations, it was the best situation for him since he was planning to do business in Veralt for a long time. Moreover, just being close to Lord Arzan meant getting his hands on products such as the Heat Stone. But he couldn''t be sure whether the lord would like the mercenaries he had brought with him. As he wondered about that, his thoughts once again came back to the four people he brought with him. They were quite a sore sight to his eyes. Gorak, the leader, stood like a granite monolith, his scarred shaved head turning from side to side as he surveyed the room with a wary curiosity. His massive hand, dwarfed by only using his great axe, wandered across the polished wood of a nearby table, leaving a faint smudge in its wake. Malden shot him a withering look, a silent plea for restraint. Yet, his plea went ignored. The man kept scraping the smooth surface. His nail scratched the edges. Malden thought to himself. These people were a band of monster hunters that mostly got employed by merchants and even if a noble called them for work, they wouldn''t be allowed into their estates. This was the first time for them and although their curiosity was understandable, Malden still frowned. His eyes went to Raven, the lone female merc. She casually leaned against the wall, her arms crossed and a single eyebrow raised in amusement. Her gaze never left the door, almost as if she was waiting for someone to walk inside. A wickedly curved dagger hung at her waist. His eyes momentarily went to her ears, but he dropped his gaze before he got caught. Malden thought again. Then, there were the twins. Finn and Finnigan. They were a blur of identical grins and nervous foot-tapping. They were anything but still. From time to time, they would move like restless sparrows, their fingers brushing against every decorative object mounted on the wall. Malden cleared his throat. "Alright, alright," he stammered, forcing a smile. "Let''s just keep things calm, shall we? We''re guests here, remember? Lord Arzan is a man who likes peace and will be here soon. Remember, he is calling for you all while taking the risk of relying on mercenaries." Gorak let out a snort, the sound rumbling like an earthquake. "Risk, you say? More like desperation," he muttered, his voice a gravelly rasp. Malden winced, shooting Raven a pleading look. She just shrugged, her lips curling into a smirk. The twins laughed, giving each other a grin. "Desperation or generosity, Malden," chimed Finn, his voice tinged with a mocking lilt, "We appreciate the offer. Just don''t expect us to play nice." I mean, he needs us. So, why cant we just look around? Finnigan added to the fire. Malden gripped the corner of the table, frowning. When he had told his employees to find the best mercenaries around, they were the only ones meeting most of the criteria, so he had no choice but to be silent for now. Mercenaries were known to be foul mouths and other than a few famous groups, they weren''t respected in the kingdom. Deciding to deal with them after the meeting, he sank onto the bench he was seated on. Just then, the door creaked open. Lord Arzan entered the room with a smile. Malden immediately stood up, his action followed by the rest of them. Looking at the mercenaries, the lord offered a weary smile. Malden, these are the mercenaries, I presume?" he inquired, raising an eyebrow at the motley crew. Malden cleared his throat. "Yes, Lord Arzan. Meet Gorak, the leader of the team, Raven, the archer, and the twins, Finn and Finnigan." Each mercenary offered a curt nod or a gruff greeting in return. Lord Arzan nodded and sat in the chair that was to their front and gestured to everyone to sit behind the table. They all followed along. The tension in the room eased slightly as they all settled down. Once Kai gave the signal to speak, Gorak, the leader of the group, cut to the chase. We heard you have a good job for us that pays well. Malden didn''t tell us many details aside from the fact that it''s exterminating monsters. We are good with that, but would like to know what we would be getting into if we accept your offer. That is right, Gorak right? Yes, thats my name. Lord Arzan nodded. His eyes went from one merc to another, looking them up and down, observing every detail closely. A few seconds later, he spoke. Theres a monster nest inside the mines where the bandits were staying. I''m pretty sure you have a clue about the bandit situation. This will be a big task for a good coin, but I cant promise anything about safety. I witnessed the monsters closely and I can say they won''t be an easy task. Id like to give you all the information, but I want to know if youre interested. Lord Arzan finished his explanation, the silence in the room thick enough to cut with a dagger. Malden could see the deep thought process mirrored in each mercenary''s face. Raven, the quiet one, finally broke the silence. "A monster nest, you say?" she asked, her voice a low rasp. "What kind of monsters are we talking about here? Cave trolls? Goblins making up a camp?" Lord Arzan shook his head. "No, these are different. They have nothing on cave trolls or goblins. They are called vermal larvae. The nervous eyes looked at each other as soon as the words came out. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 44. Mercenaries Kai took his time to observe the individuals slowly, noting their reactions to the mention of the larvae. By the way, they had stiffened when he had come in, he knew they hadn''t talked to nobles before. Much less one who was a Mage. However, they had hidden it pretty well in a matter of seconds, aside from the twins who still looked at him nervously. Gorak seemed to be in thought for a moment. Raven, Finn and Finnigan patiently waited for him to say something, taking glances at their leader. Vermal larvae? he grumbled. A hint of scepticism was in his voice. Weve dealt with our fair share of monsters and nests are always tricky. Especially one filled with larvae. I know of the creatures, and their whole nest sounds like a recipe for a quick demise. Kai didn''t say anything but agreed to his assessment inwardly. His voice came out calm as he gave out more details. As you know, larvae aren''t easy to deal with and from how big the nest is, there are signs of a queen ruling them all. That would be the biggest problem for us all He continued to explain everything, adding the things that he witnessed back in the mines. Obviously, he left out the fact about the Atheum reserves, not wanting to spread it. Even the people who had been in the mines had been instructed to keep it a secret since it was one of the rarest materials in the world. As he went over the details of the nest, talking about the number of estimated larvae and their strength, the faces of the mercenaries changed slightly. It seemed like they had been thinking of an easier job and hearing the description, they were having second thoughts. At least that''s what Kai perceived from the glances between Gorak and Raven. What is the reward for facing such a delightful company? Raven, the lone female spoke. She was tall, thin, and had pointy ears that looked sharp alongside pale skin that wasn''t usual for humans. Her ember eyes challenged Kai as she stared at him. Kai met her gaze. He hadn''t expected to see an elf here, but that assured him of the strength of the group. Elfs were naturally agile and their archers were always worth the gold. The reward will be substantial," he said, looking at Francis, earning a brief nod. 100 gold coins to hire you all and an additional 5 for each larvae you kill. Gorak grunted, leaning forward to look at Francis, and then back at Kai. "Sounds like fat pay for a suicide mission. Not the kind of coin that justifies being turned into a vermala kibble." Kai leaned forward, imitating Goraks motion. "On top of the coin, I''ll provide you with all the potions and elixirs of good quality. Healing draughts, stamina enhancers anything to give you an edge in this fight and you can keep any that are left after the battle." Gorak''s gaze flickered. What is our role in this mission? Youre not expecting us to go down there just by ourselves, hah? Kai shook his head immediately. The guards will accompany you he paused. He raised his hand in the air and flickered his fingers. A small flame of fire appeared on it as Gorak nodded, understanding Kais intentions. Im a Mage, as you can see and heard about. So, I will be there with you, for additional support. My intention is not to send you all to your death. The four nodded in unison. Raven raised her hand and gathered everyones attention. And this queen? Who handles that problem? We can deal with larvae, but she''s beyond us." Kai smiled. "That will be me. I''ll deal with the queen myself. You focus on clearing a path, helping out the guards and staying alive. You do not have to care about the queen if you dont want to." Raven nodded. But before she could say anything, Gorak spoke up, Well, this all seems fine. But I believe we need to talk in private Discuss a few matters before making a decision. Kai gestured to them with his hands, allowing them to continue. The mercenaries stood up and gave a curt bow for which Kai nodded. They walked to the corner of the room and huddled together. Soon they exchanged words, talking in low whispers. Kai leaned back in his chair, observing their postures. Raven, the elven archer seemed to take the lead. Her gestures from afar looked sharp and decisive. The twins, who had been bubbling with nervous energy since Kai walked in, were uncharacteristically focused. Even Gorak, who Kai thought was quite opinionated, seemed to be listening closely. Kai couldnt help but wonder. He looked at Malden and wasnt surprised to see the latter peeking at the groups discussion. Soon, an uncomfortable air with only whispers took over their meeting. After what felt like an eternity, the group dispersed. Gorak approached Kai. Alright, Lord Arzan, he said and took his seat. Well take on your monster nest. But, he added, a finger raised at Malden, who opened his mouth to speak, in warning. Kai knew he implied that more conditions were yet to be said. Dont expect us to be heroes. We fight for the coin, not glory. Kai internally smiled but kept his posture steady. The weight of what their condition could be, washed away. Fair enough. Just stay alive, and the coin will be yours. The mercenaries nodded in unison and stood up. The deal was on the table officially. Before they could fully walk out of the door, Kais eyes fell on Raven''s back. It wasn''t always you would see an elf and Kai hadn''t seen one since his teenage years when he had taken a trip to the last tribes of elves left in the world. With a casualness he didnt quite feel, he asked, By the way, Raven, do you have a companion with you? She stopped and turned back, her eyes flickering in confusion as she looked at him guardedly. Companion? she asked, her voice shaking a little. I''m sorry I''m not betrothed and I have no intention Your spirit, Kai clarified. Do you have a spirit with you? She nodded, slowly, then confidently. Yes Yes, I do. Can I see it? She looked at him sceptically. Her lips pursed tight into a thin line. Malden and Francis, who had been discreetly observing the exchange, couldn''t help but look at him strangely. Sure, she said in a little voice. A faint green light flickered near Raven''s shoulder, a tiny, luminescent wisp that pulsed with a soft, noticeable glow. It looked and felt ethereal as it floated around the room as if excited. Kai reached out a hand, the wisp moving to him. His gentle touch brushed the green light as he fed it his mana which made the glow brighter. He patted the little green glow. It pulsed once, almost in greeting, before flitting back to Raven''s side. "It''s good," he murmured, more to himself than anyone. "Very good." Raven stared at him, her eyes wide with surprise. "How do you know of the spirit? sea??h th novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai smiled enigmatically. I know a bit of your people''s customs and spirits are an interesting part of it.," he said. "Don''t worry, I was just curious about your spirit. Now, about that contract" He quickly changed the topic as the rest followed. I will make sure the contract is ready when youre here again. Francis will let you know the details on your way out. Gorak nodded, Thanks, Lord Arzan. He gave a small nod to Malden, as they all walked out of the room together. Kai stayed back, deep in thought about the mercenaries he just hired. This could go either way, but he had hoped his decision wouldn''t be something he would regret. *** The Rusty Pickaxe Inn was more silent than usual. Only two tables were full and one of them was occupied by a group of mercenaries not native to the city. Gorak grunted as he nursed a tankard of ale. Beside him, Raven fiddled with her dagger, her brows furrowed in thought. "That Lord Arzan," she muttered, her voice barely a whisper. "There''s something strange about him." Finn, the more talkative of the twins, piped up. "Strange how he knew about your little green friend, eh Raven? Not exactly common knowledge, elf customs and all that." Raven shot him a withering look. "It has a name called Jata, and it doesn''t like to be called ''little.'' But you''re right," she admitted, her voice low. "It''s unusual. Most mages wouldn''t even notice, let alone be so accepting. Jata was happy with his mana." She rolled her eyes at the end of her sentence, not happy with how her spirit reacted to Arzan. Gorak rumbled in agreement. "Yes, there''s something off about him. The village we passed through said he killed off a goblin lord and defended against a necromancer. Even on the way to the estate, we noticed food getting distributed. All these events are starkly opposite what we heard of him back in Kingsreach. The twins leaned in, eyes wide with curiosity. It was normal for them to enjoy gossip. Finn asked, "So, what do you think he is, then? Some secret persona in disguise? We also heard he''s behind the production of Heat stones. That puts some credibility to him." We don''t know if he''s actually the creator of it. All we know, is it might be a ruse to gain reputation. Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by a man walking towards them with plates full of food. Anson, the burly innkeeper, his apron stained with years of spilt ale, leaned over the table and put the food down. He didn''t leave right away, looking at the faces of the mercenaries. "Talking about Lord Arzan, are we?" he asked, a twinkle in his eye. The mercenaries exchanged startled glances. Gorak cleared his throat. Yes. We''re Starting a job for him soon." Anson chuckled, a sound like thunder rolling across a distant mountain range. I have seen more and more stuff about him pop up recently. He had gained a reputation, but you know like everything, rumours are mixed in with the truth. Hard to tell what''s a lie and what''s not. If you want, I could tell you all about him. I have been in the city since I was a little boy and every conversation happens in my inn, he said and before Gorak could speak, Anson wagged a finger in front of his face. For a good price obviously. As you see, business hasn''t been great recently. The mercenaries exchanged another glance, a mixture of scepticism and curiosity warring on their faces. Finally, Raven spoke. How much would that be? One gold coin. She frowned, and so did the others, but looking at the innkeeper''s face and the feeling the curiosity gnawing at the back of their minds, she shared a look with Gorak. Alright, get to it, Gorak said annoyingly as he passed him a shining gold coin. Anson quickly shifted his smile to a neutral mask as he pocketed the coin. Well. He started, covering everything that had happened since the start of Frosania. *** The moon hung bright in the night sky, providing light on the training grounds. Kai, his form a blur of motion, practised his spear techniques in the empty field. Sweat beaded on his brow, and his breath barely made it outside his lungs, but he pushed himself harder. He turned his spear to the side, angled it thirty degrees to the ground and pushed it forward. His actions halted as his eyes came to his form. Kai told himself. His knees shaking, unable to stay in the same position as this was the thirtieth time he practised the same form. He stood back straight and this time, envisioned the twisting tunnels of the monster nest. The image of a larvae charging up at him came to his mind. He lunged forward, the spear to his front and put it on the ground, rolling around it for a kick before backing up. Successful in the form of the attack, he smiled. With a swift launch to the side, he grabbed the spear again and started thrusting it forward, to his sides, and even to different angles that Killian had taught him. Imagining the larvae or any monster was a visualisation technique he had often used with his spells. Now, it was the same with his spear forms. Just thinking of himself fighting a larvae with the spear was a good practice for him even without any targets. Back in his training days, there used to be mana puppets that would be used to take the form and shape of monsters for a mock battle. Apparently, they were made by an artefact left by a Magus like him hundreds of years back who had been a genius at making different types of devices. As he practised, he wondered if he could build it up, but he didn''t even know where to start. At most, he could make up training golems once he got better at it. Kai took a deep breath, moving to practice a defence form, but then, he paused. Suddenly, a strange sensation prickled at the edges of his senses. He stopped mid-thrust, his spear held high, a feeling of unease settling in his gut. His eyes darted around the moonlit clearing, perking up his ears and mana to pinpoint what he was looking for. "Show yourself! his voice echoed in the silence. He briefly wondered if it was a guard that had ventured to the training groups whose eyes he had felt, but that didn''t seem likely. Killian was a hard taskmaster and he doubted any of them had strength left after the evening training sessions. Even after a while minute, only silence answered him, broken by the rustle of leaves and crickets chirping. But Kai remained vigilant, a knot of tension tightening in his chest. He raised his gaze, scanning the branches of the towering oak tree at the edge of the clearing. Sending out his mana in the surroundings to check for any signatures he could pick up, he smiled before making his way towards the tree. Who is it? He asked once again. If you don''t come out, I''m going to burn the whole tree down to a crisp. - Patreon: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 45. A desert dweller Kai walked towards the tree, his spear straight ahead, looking out for anyone who jumped out at him. Sweat slicked his brow from his previous session, but with a cast of a [Refresh] spell, he felt much better. He got to the trunk of the tree and stared at the branches, trying to make out a figure and the next second, a ball of flames appeared in his left hand. Come out right now or you will be burned! He said, giving out a final warning. Not even a second later, he felt someone slipping on the branches as a figure fell down, nearly hitting Kai who took a step back. With a loud thud, a man groaned as his back hit the ground. All anger and tension left Kai as he blinked at the man who rubbed his back. If he was an assassin, he was a clumsy one who would be killed in his first mission by dropping from a rooftop because he had missed a step. As he wondered if he should cast a binding spell, he blinked his eyes, noticing the familiar features of the man. He was Ansel, the tall man with slightly curvy hair and tanned skin that had accompanied them during their Vermal Larvae encounter. Back then, he had introduced himself as a traveller, but Kai doubted that was the case. His breath started slowly calming down and his previous guarded expression eased. But before he could say anything, Ansel dropped into a crouch position, his movements surprising Kai. Kai stepped forward, the tip of the spear finding its mark against Ansels shoulder, just enough to startle and unbalance him. The traveller stumbled back, throwing his hands up in surrender. His eyebrows raised in surprise. Wait! Lord Arzan. Im no assassin! You cant assassinate me even if you try to. What are you doing here, at this hour of the day? Kai inquired, his voice heavy with authority. Ansel smiled at his first words and Kai wondered what he was happy about, causing his expression to strain. If you dont answer me immediately, I will call the guards and you can give a visit to the castle cell. Kai pushed the tip of the spear closer to his neck. He felt no apparent threat from Ansel, but he had seen enough in his short live to know that humans were good actors. No need for such a pointy welcome, Lord Arzan. A friendly spar is all Im after. A friendly spar? Kai kept the spear steady. Trespassing in my training grounds at night hardly screams friendly to me. Ansel groaned. Fair enough, he admitted, his grin fading slightly. But your doorman wasnt exactly receptive to my request for a challenge. A challenge? Kai frowned at his statement. He couldnt understand why this man was the way he was. You think you can just walk in here and demand a duel? Ansel straightened, his shoulders squaring. Not a duel, he said. Just a chance to test myself against something of your strength. Ive never faced a Mage before, you see. And when I said that to the guards, they threw me out, snickering. Why don''t you go to one of the Towers? I did, but I was thrown out again and some kid cast a spell on me that made me vomit every time I ate for a week, he said, his face turning grim at the experience. I still kept close, witnessing their powers from time to time in a few monster-infested areas. But never crossed blades, or spells, with one. Cause none of them seemed approachable. Whatever he heard was absurd. Kai couldn''t feel anything extraordinary from the man. If there was something, he hid it too well, but if that was the case, he wouldn''t be asking Kai for a spar. Ansel was simply a normal person, albeit one who liked to trespass on a Mage''s home at night. What if I accidentally hurt you? Kai asked. Or worse, kill you? Ansels usual grin returned, wider this time. Then, he said, a confident glint in his eyes. I would be bested by someone with extraordinary skills. Kai sighed. A closed-lip smile tugged at the corner of his lips. Ansel had quite a bold mouth. He noticed it once when they first met, twice, when he wanted to go with them inside the mine, and now. Thinking about his request, finding a decent sparring partner at this hour would be difficult. A part of him wanted to reject, but there was no reason to. Even if its a short spar, itd be an ideal one to end Kais practice for the day. Alright, alright, he conceded, lowering the spear slightly. But are you sure that you want to spar with a Mage? Wouldnt swordplay be more your style? Ansel shook his head. No, I want to feel it. To see what its like to face your powers head-on. Taking a deep breath, Kai sheathed his spear and took two steps forward, getting closer to Ansel. Just a spar, remember? Id do non-lethal spells, and we can keep it simple 1st circle magic only. Ansels grin widened, as he bobbed his head up and down. Kai threw the spear that he was practising at him. Ansel gripped it tightly. Ready? Kai called out and the tanned man nodded. Before Ansel could properly stand, Kai sent a wind vortex intensified with a whoosh, whipping a gust of air towards him. He was caught off guard for a split second, and stumbled back a step, his eyes widening in surprise. But without wasting another heartbeat, he lunged forward. Umph! Ansel let out a throaty grunt. He used the winds momentum to propel himself into a spinning attack, Kai sidestepped just in time, the wind of Ansels spear blade moving past his ear. Kai briskly bent down, his hand extending as he flicked his wrist, launching another [Wind Gust]. Ansels eyes narrowed in concentration. Before the gust could approach him, he stepped to the side and lunged forward, with the spear aiming at Kai. Kai smoothly cast [Ice Slick]. The ground became slick and slippery, patches of it freezing in an instant. Ansels plan to launch himself forward was defeated as he lost his footing, his spear skittering across the grass just out of reach. As Ansel tried to find his balance, Kai sent a tiny [Fire Bolt] towards his ankle, aiming at the grass beneath it. He immediately jumped up, clutching his toe and stumbled back, away from the flames leaping after him. With a wave of Kai''s hand, the flames died immediately as both of them came to a halt. Well played, Lord Arzan, he said, his eyes looking up in admiration. The usual grin stayed in the place, but it felt a bit different. I didn''t expect a Mage to be sneaky. Kai chuckled. He had only used a few spells, and the traveller was already on the floor. It wasn''t to say Ansel hadn''t fought well. He was clearly experienced and taught well, but was inept against spells. If he was right, the tanned man had mostly spared against weapons and never encountered a spell, at least not a Mage''s one. All is fair in a fun spar. In a fight, if you give your opponent too much time, you might regret it later. Wanna go another round? Kai asked, looking back at the centre of the training grounds. Im all good. I believe I underestimated the magic that people in this land wield. No wonder Mages are so respected. He shook his head. The wind tricks were quite refreshing actually. I wouldn''t want to fight with you until I have a way to deal with them. Kai smiled. And I underestimated you. Your spear work is decent, especially your form, and the agility didnt expect that. It''s quite different from the one I have learnt. Kai said and extended his hand. The traveller took it up and stood up, shrugging off the dirt in his clothes. As he did that, Kai again wondered about the origins of the man. He was clearly a foreigner, but his accent was quite usual, meaning he had lived in Lancephil Kingdom for a while. Before Kai could speak to ask these questions, Ansel suddenly bowed low. What are you doing? Kai asked, withdrawn from his sudden show of respect. Lord Arzan, he said, a hint of desperation in his voice. I overheard the guards talking about your expedition for the monster nest. Kais eyes narrowed. "I know I''m just a stranger," Ansel continued, his voice earnest. "But I can handle myself with a spear, as you''ve seen. And considering your fiery arsenal," he added with a grin, "a companion who can dodge a fireball or two might be helpful." Yes, youve proven your point. But, integrating you wouldnt be a simple matter. Ansel straightened. I understand, Lord Arzan. New faces can disrupt the established routines, creating friction with the guards. Kai nodded. His eyes went to the practice spear that was on the floor. But, Ansel started talking before Kai could reply. I have experience, years of it, facing monsters far worse than any guard in your keep. Beasts that I barely survived against by dodging under their claws. Kai thought for a moment. Ansels skill with the spear and the agility is impressive, but facing monsters was a whole different thing. Questions started arising in Kais mind as he tried to find traces of lies in Ansel''s face. What kind of beasts? Erm. Wait, Ansel spoke, more for himself than Kai and reached into a hidden pouch at his belt. He pulled out a small, leather bag. Whats that? Kai questioned. Kais curiosity faded as he untied the drawstring and put it out in front of him to gaze. Inside the bag, there was a collection of trophies. Not the kind given to soldiers for their bravery, but the kind hunters collect as an achievement. Talon-like claw, several blackened teeth, a smooth, skull-like fragment polished to a disturbing gleam. Staring at Ansel, Kai had one question. Why? Our clan, he started explaining. We believe in taking a piece of the enemy with us. A reminder of the battles we fought, the victories won. A way to make sure that they are never truly forgotten. What clan? Clan Torum of Ashari. Hearing that name, Kai blinked and tried to sense something out of Ansel again, but it was clear the man was normal. Thinking back to the clans in the desert, practices such as these were traditions that went a long way. The clans held a certain undeniable respect for the fallen enemy and it meant to carry a part of them with him as a reminder of the tough battle and what they had overcome. He paused to study Ansel for a long moment. Several questions passed through his mind. He wanted to attempt to take on the monster nest with the guards. But was it worth the risk with their current numbers? Would Ansel be worth it? How much can a single man contribute? But again, this man knew how to fight. Moreover, Kai was curious to know more about the clans even if it was general information and not their techniques that might help Killian and the others. Kai nodded slowly. Breaking the silence, he said, Report to Killian tomorrow, first light. Hell handle the logistics. Ansel grinned widely and bowed again. Without another worth, he grasped the low-hanging branch from before and hoisted himself back into the tree with a swift movement. A moment later, a rustle of leaves and a soft thud signalled that Ansel had descended on the other side of the wall. Kai thought to himself, grabbing the spear from the floor. *** Actra leaned his back in the leather armchair. He sat hunched over a massive tome. The symbols drawn in it and the cursive writing had his sole attention as he read through the Analysis of specialised elements of mana volume 3 by the Savant level Mage Sanglo Rason. It was a book he had been trying to finish these days, hoping to finally make a breakthrough with a few spells. But from time to time, his eyes would linger on a letter sitting on a desk beside him. He ignored it with full concentration and focused on his book. As he turned a page with a thin strand of mana, a knock on the heavy door shattered the silence. Actra sighed, placing a heavy bookmark on the page and shouted, Enter. The door creaked open, revealing a young guard who gave a short bow. Mage Actra, he started, his voice barely above a whisper. Im here to make a report about Lord Arzan. Speak clearly, what is it? Actra asked. The guard cleared his throat. Lord Arzan had cleared the bandits who were under Grekk the pulverizer recently. The city is celebrating it these days. The bandits were chained in the town square as a punishment The guard started going into a detailed account of witnessing everything that happened with the mines. He also included the information about Erasmus and the Tradeheart Merchant Company, and what had happened with them. All of them were still in the cells in the estate, waiting to be sent to the capital for a trial. Once that was over, he moved to the mines and talked about the monster nest. And this nest, Actra interjected. His hand placed on his chin, as he subtly leaned forward. What is it exactly? What kind of monsters are there? They say that theres a vein of Atheum inside. And that the monsters are called Vermal larvae. Theyre strongly attracted to the mana stones, and the rumour thats spreading is if we dont do something about it, they will break out and start to attack the villages that are close to the mines. I dont know the information in detail, like about the expedition that Lord Arzan is planning. I believe only Knight Killian and Administrator Francis would be privy to it. Actras gaze narrowed at the last words. Sar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. If anything, the estates resident Mage should know about this information. He wasn''t even being asked about the monsters, so it meant that Arzan wasn''t trusting him with anything and treating him like he didn''t exist. Actra shook his head as his eyes went to the letter on the desk. The parchment had its seal broken, wide opened, a little crunched by how Actra had been reading it in the morning. Frowning, he waved his hand in dismissal. The guard nodded and left the room immediately. Once he was all alone, his hand went to the paper again, his eyes skimming over the letters. It was a long letter, consisting of more than a few things, but the main crux of it was simple. Keep a close eye on Arzan and report back. Find out his level of strength even if it means stepping on a few boundaries, Actra muttered, his face straining as he kept looking at it for a long time. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 46. The Black Sheep (1) Kai struggled to open his eyes. He could feel his sweaty palms clasped together as he tried to breathe and the dust that caught his breath in his throat. Finally, after what seemed like an endless struggle, he managed to open his eyes, flinching at the sudden noise from the familiar door. His eyes adjusted to the dim light as they raked over the broken furniture strewn around him. The door. The broken shelves, the disorganised library. The thrum that came through the cold floor. It all came crashing back as he tried to understand what was happening. He squeezed his eyes shut, panic coiling in his gut. Opening them again, he took in the surroundings, realising that he was back to the confines he had painstakingly survived in before finding the spell to go back in time. It was the underground library of the Sorcerer''s Tower. It shook beneath his body as all sorts of possibilities ran through his mind. He tried to inhale deeply to calm his raging heart. He coughed as the dust hit his lungs immediately. With dust particles, he sensed something. Something that made him widen his eyes in tremor. Another tremor hit the room and he looked towards the door, knowing that any moment monsters would spring up inside. He instinctively touched his eye and felt relieved that it was there. Last time, a mana fiend had gouged it out. But this time he couldn''t let it happen. Whatever this was, wasnt going to end like last time. He forced himself to remember the chant, the flow of mana he needed to unleash a spell. But the words stuck in his throat, choked by a rising tide of terror. The spell structure was clearly in his mind, as he had practised the same spell over and over during his time under the tutelage of his master and the battles he had been in. He tried his best to say it out loud. His willpower gripping at every attempt. But, no matter how much he tried to get it out of his throat, he couldnt. He extended his arm and turned his focus to a simple spell. After what seemed like several excruciating minutes, a spell structure started slowly forming. A he opened his mouth, a sound barely audible coming out. He tried his best to focus on the simple [Firebolt] incantation that he might have said a thousand times before. Firebolt! he hissed in pain. The words fell into oppressive silence. Nothing. No surge of power. No whispered magic ignited at his fingertips. And the usual ecstatic feeling of mana he felt whenever he cast a spell was Nowhere to be found. Looking around the room once again, he realised what was wrong. There was no mana in the air and he felt weak. His throat was parched. He had found himself in the era where mana had become the scarcest resource and the reality of it was finally settling in. As he hunched his shoulders, a sound took his attention. A gravelly chuckle intonated through the room. It disturbed him from the horror of his spell not working. K-Kai, the voice rasped out. Kai whipped his head around, spotting a lone figure amidst the chaos of the room. An old man, his beard and hair as white as the falling dust, sat slumped against a fallen pillar. He wore flowing robes, richly embroidered once, now stained with dark, spreading crimson. A smoothly curved dagger protruded from his chest, its tip glistening ruby red. Kai squinted his eyes, praying to almighty goddess Luminous that it shouldnt be who he thought it was. His palms were flat on the dusty floor, and he tried to lift himself. But, his legs soon gave up. Helplessness. Pain. He could feel them everywhere, in his heart, mind, and even in the numbness of his body. But the image of his master lying there a few feet away made him scramble towards the old man, ignoring the eating fear in his gut. Gathering all the willpower, his knees dragged him across the floor. Master! his voice echoed. His masters face was wrinkled with all the years of experience. His lips curled to a displeasing look. His eyes were staring at Kai. Kais hands reached out, hovering uselessly over the old mans blood-soaked form. "Hold on, I''ll heal you just need a light mend" His voice trailed off, a sickening realisation dawning. The magic that pulsed through his veins in the previous body C gone. Here he was helpless as a newborn. It washed over him in a wave, cold and bitter, threatening to drown him. The old man coughed, a wet, rattling sound. "Disappointing, Kai," he rasped, his voice weak. "Always disappointing." Kai''s stomach clenched. "No! I''ll heal you, I swear! Just" his voice broke. Just what? He couldn''t explain the impotence that held him like a vice. "No healing," the old man wheezed, his gaze locking with Kai''s. "Even a hundred lifetimes wouldn''t be enough. You were my greatest failure, Kai. You got me killed once, and here you are again, fumbling like a child." Kai wanted to scream, to deny it. But the accusation struck a familiar chord, a chilling echo of his mind whispers he''d sometimes heard during training when he was still a student. Another bone-shattering blow resonated through the tower. The old man''s smile turned grim. "Have you fulfilled your promise, then?" "I I''m working on it!" Kai stammered, desperation clawing at his throat. "Working on it," the old man mocked, his voice gaining a tinge of its former strength. "Never enough, Kai. Never enough. You''ll disappoint me again, just like always." A slow, chilling smile spread across his face. The wrinkles around his eyes crinkled. It was a smile Kai recognized. A smile that sent shivers down his spine. He didnt want his master to die. No, not again. He tried to focus on his breathing, on his mana, on anything that could increase his power. Gain his power! Before he could even retry, He muffled his ears from his hands as the noise was too loud to bear. The old man was gone. His master wasC The realisation hit him, the pain of it was worse than a physical blow. All the memories of his time during the academy rushed one after another. The guilt was heavy on his chest. He couldnt save him. The door that was in the corner of the room started shaking violently. Someone pounding it with all their might. A relentless drumbeat urged him to get himself up and confront the monsters that were outside the door. The door didnt creak open. It shattered inwards this time, a splintered explosion that sent the broken shelves flying. Blinding light flooded the room again. Kai flinched back, throwing his arm up to shield his eyes. He jolted awake. His fist clenched, and a strangled gasp tore from his throat. Cold sweat slicked his skin, chilling him, despite having Heat stones in his room. Scrambling out of bed, he landed on his knees by the side of the cot, chest heaving with adrenaline. His heart hammered a wild tattoo against his ribs, slowly calming as he scanned the familiar surroundings of his room. A subtle daylight streamed through the window, bathing the furnishings in a soft glow. The air smelled faintly of woodsmoke and parchment, the comforting scent of his room. sea??h th novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Slowly, he realised what had happened. Kai cursed under his breath, wiping the sweat from his brow. He hadn''t thought of his master in a while. Yet, for as long as he could remember, these nightmares had followed him, a relentless echo of his past. For years. It had similar nightmares. An unwelcome image flickered in his mindC his master, crumpled against the stone, blood streaking across his robes. The faint breath heaving up and down his chest and the exact moment, Kai knew it would stop. Kai pushed the image away with a grimace. A sharp rapping on his door cut through the remnants of his dream. Kai flinched, surprised by the intrusion. He shook off the lingering echoes of his master''s spectral words as a gentle knock at the door startled him. "Come in," he shouted, trying to appear as normal as possible. The door creaked open, revealing Claire''s familiar face. Her usual warm smile was tinged with a hint of concern seeing him stand up from the position on the floor. It could also be due to how he was drenched in sweat. Good morning, Claire, he said, not missing the look in her eyes that stayed despite his greeting. Did something happen? Claire nodded. "Breakfast is ready, Lord Arzan," she said softly. "And Lord Actra is there too today." *** As soon as Kai had walked inside, Killian and Francis silently grabbed their seats where the maids had already arranged the table with food. Actra was already seated just as Claire had told him. The scent of freshly baked bread and frizzling meat greeted him, a welcome assault on his five senses. The mismatched collection of furniture that served as their dining area seemed to be overly quiet today. There, at the head of the table, sat Actra. His usually pristine robes, as Kai encountered when he had first met him were rumpled, his silver hair escaping its customary braid in a few unruly strands. His green eyes they were on him. Even from a distance, Kai could see faint lines of exhaustion around his eyes. He had been putting his energy into something recently. Maybe thats why he was here. Or it could be something else. Trying not to make assumptions, Kai sat down after everyone greeted him. Beside him, sat Francis and Killian. Their folks hovered mid-air, stealing furtive glances at Kai. Killian quickly withdrew himself from the rigid stance and munched on the bread slowly. Franciss eyes urged Kai to say something or do something about the man sitting at the same table as them. As an experienced administrator, he very well knew there was a reason Actra was here. Kai grabbed a chipped mug. He poured himself a steaming cup of tea, the earthy aroma calming his frayed nerves. Kai couldnt help but think. "Rare to see you out of your dusty old tomes, Mage Actra," he said. The pointed comment hung heavy in the air. Actra smiled, his lips curling slightly upwards. It''s been a while, hasn''t it? Felt the need to, shall we say, broaden my horizons." His gaze flicked towards Claire, who busied herself refilling mugs with a practised air of obliviousness. "Besides," he added, his voice dropping to a low tone, "wanted to see your progress firsthand. Wouldn''t want you to stray from the path as from my knowledge, you don''t have a master." Kai raised an eyebrow, the meat he''d grabbed halfway to his mouth forgotten. His mind ran hundreds of miles on possibilities of what this all could be about. Just the thought of him was enough to make him shiver. Though he hadn''t read a ton of books written by Mages of this era since it was hard to get his hands on one, he doubted Actra could teach him anything before the 5th circle. I don''t, but I''m doing fine without one. I wouldn''t want to be subjected to lectures on magic theories all day in a confined space. I''m making decent progress without anyone to teach me. He took a large bite of the meat, the snap echoing in the tense silence. Actra''s smile faltered for a brief moment. His lips turned to a thin line as he sipped the tea. "Progress comes in many forms, Lord Arzan. Not everything is brute strength and flashy spells, he said calmly. You might have access to spells from your family, but they aren''t what makes a true Mage. What does? An eye to look into the wide world and to pluck away at its mysteries. Even an apprentice can defeat a few primal monsters. Can they? I don''t think spending hours in a room would give battle experience. For the next ten minutes, Kai and Actra talked like that, their faces smiling, but their eyes growing colder by the second. Killian kept giving a shaky glance at both of them as they continued and finally, Kai''s patience ran low. He slammed his mug down on the table, the clatter echoing in the room. Alright, enough of this masked dance," he said sternly. "We both know you wouldn''t come crawling out of your room for a simple breakfast. What brings you here?" Actra met his gaze head-on. Something unreadable in his old eyes. He set down his mug and leaned backwards in his chair. Your way of talking has worsened and you have lost respect for me, Arzan. Either way, I''m here because I heard of your expedition and I was wondering he paused, taking a deep breath, "If I could perhaps accompany you." - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 47. The Black Sheep (2) Actras pronouncement hung in the air, heavy and unexpected. Kai stared at him, a strangled laugh bubbling in his throat. Accompany him? The very idea was ludicrous. What do you mean? Kai asked, unsure of what he heard. Actra, his composure straight and calm at his statement, raised an eyebrow. Are you surprised? he inquired, a hint of amusement dancing in his green eyes. Kai nodded, maintaining his own demeanour. Why would you want to go with us even though youve barely stepped outside your room? I remember when the mana weaver appeared, a few guards went to get you but you kicked them out saying that you cant be bothered with it. Why now?Kai looked at him with a neutral expression, not one part of him believed that Actra had any good intentions. He wanted to refuse straightaway, but he waited for the old Mage''s next words. You are right about that, but it''s not the same thing here. I also recently realised I haven''t been acting well as your retainer. Spending my time on simply researching can become monotonous, so I wanted to join this expedition, he said, eating up a piece of bread. Kai struggled not to roll his eyes. Although he could accept that the research was monotonous, he knew Mages could stay holed up in their rooms for years. Ancient Mages he had read about were all about that and it was only in his time that they had avoided every kind of research and became more adventurers, trying to survive against the fiends. Shaking that memory off, Kai simply shook his head, Mage Actra, although I understand what you are saying, it still doesn''t prompt me to agree to your request. You would be better off staying behind to prepare for any threats that might befall on the city when we are gone. Actra snorted at that, a bit of his facade dropping, but he still maintained his smile. The city will have guards left behind to deal with it. It doesn''t require me. Moreover, I also want to come for your safety. My safety? Yes, you might think coming out on top with a few bandits and a low grade necromancer is a big deal, but it''s really not for a Mage. You have done well for yourself, but a Grade 4 larvae queen is an entirely different being. You might be able to deal with its children, but the queen itself would be an entity no Mage below 3rd circle can go against without losing their lives. Kai didn''t argue. Actra''s words did make sense since a Grade 4 monster was something entirely different, being able to command a small army. Among them, a larvae queen was a force to reckon with. Even with his fighting experience and barrage of spells, he wasn''t entirely confident of taking it on without leaving the guard''s faith to their own hands. At most, he would come out on top with a lot of casualties. Due to it, he was even desperately trying to make a breakthrough, but he wasn''t there yet. Maybe, it was sensing Kai''s internal struggle, but Actra pushed on, If you don''t know, back in my days as a young Mage, I led an expedition into one of these nests, fighting off a Grade 3 heretical beetle myself. I am confident that among us I would be able to take on the queen much better. Kai raised an eyebrow, trying to find any deceit or exaggeration on his face, but there was nothing. Although he had a bit of information on Actra, he didn''t know his fighting strength since he had never even seen him use a spell. Still, it wasn''t a far fetched notion. Seeing that Kai wasn''t going to say anything, Actra continued, Think a bit about the guards you are bringing too. Everyone knows the last time you went on an expedition, almost half of the guards returned as corpses. No matter what, there would be unease with just you around. It wasn''t one necromancer this time, it''s a whole nest of monstrous insects. Actra paused for a breath, trying to see any tremors behind his calm expression. Finding nothing, he raised two fingers. One Mage might be okay, but it''s not enough to give a sense of security. Two Mages however, that''s an entirely different tale. After saying that, Actra finished his breakfast with a flourish, pushing his plate away with a decisive click. "Don''t worry, Arzan," he said, his voice laced with a hint of amusement. "Think about it. No need for a hasty decision. Consider it my duty." With that, he rose from the table, his robes swishing around him like a storm cloud. The weight of his presence lingered in the room even after he departed, leaving Kai to stare at the bread of conflicting emotions and a tactical dilemma. Actra''s offer hung in the air and he had no idea what to do with it. Kai was sure he wasn''t offering to come for his security. Instead, it was probably to keep an eye on him and gauge his abilities better. Also, to confirm the presence of Atheum in the mines. Still, Kai felt conflicted, frowning as he finished his breakfast. *** Kai stared at the book sitting in the library, the imprint of Actra''s form still faintly visible in his mind. They had finished breakfast a while ago and he had walked into his study, intending to read more into golems when he found himself pondering over Actras words. Over and over. In repetition. If this was some other time, he wouldnt have even let this man take over his worries, but now with a huge expedition coming up, his mind was elsewhere. Actras words were true. If anything, extra support would only bring them extra assurance. Yet, the logic of it clawed his skin the hidden intentions behind Actras proposition was apparent. Deciding that he needed to talk to someone about it, he pushed himself back from the table and immediately walked towards the grounds where Killian was putting the guards through their paces. Due to Killians strict morning routine, Kai knew this was when he trained new Enforcers and soldiers. His personal spear training was scheduled for the evening. Sarch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Passing maids and a few guards, he entered the ground. Spotting Killian, Kai strode towards him, trying to not show the frown etched on his face. "Killian," he called out, his voice heavy with thought. As soon as he heard it he straightened, wiping sweat from his brow. Have time for a word?" Killian nodded immediately, following Kai to a secluded corner of the grounds. "What''s the matter, Lord Arzan?" he asked, looking at him. Kai hesitated, then blurted out, "Actra." Killian''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Mage Actra? What about him?" "His offer," Kai simply said. What do you think about it? Killian took more than a second before speaking, It makes sense. Two Mages are always better than one, especially facing something like a Grade 4 monster. I haven''t fought something like that before, much less the guards who hardly even fight against goblins. Having another experienced Mage would certainly ease their hearts." Kai scoffed. I understand that, but doesn''t it feel off? Actra didn''t even help out during the weaver situation. Killian fell silent, his gaze dropping to the ground. "Well," he began slowly, seeming to choose his words carefully. "Perhaps a little. But Mage Actra is skilled from what I know. It would be rude to turn him down." "Rude?" Kai chuckled a solemn sound. "Maybe. But sometimes you have to be." Killian flinched slightly. "Right," he muttered. "Though, Mage Actra was close with you back in the day, wasn''t he, Lord Arzan? I don''t understand why you are on guard against him." Kais face remained neutral. "He was," Kai lied. Maybe they were close, but he had no idea how close. "But things change." Killian kept silent, clearly not understanding what was going on. He simply questioned after a point, Is there something that I should know about Lord Arzan? Yes, but it''s not the time for it. Even if I want to reveal it, there''s no proof, Kai admitted. A part of him wanted to get Actra locked up, but not until he had sufficient proof and strength to defend against him. For now, I simply want to know what you think of him being on the expedition? It was only after a minute that Killian spoke, looking like he was under a lot of pressure. I believe it would be a lot of help. From what I know, Mage Actra definitely had experience with monsters and it would come in handy against the queen. I don''t think anyone like him would try anything in the middle of a nest of larvae, he said, taking a short pause to look at Kai''s expression. But if you think there''s something wrong, then we are good to go on our own. I will trust your judgement. I don''t think Mage Actra would take it to heart since he hardly leaves his room. Kai was about to nod in agreement when a glint sparked in his eyes. He thought back to the last sentence Killian had said. Maybe, he had been looking at it wrong the entire time. He knew Actra was coming to keep an eye on him, but it was also an opportunity to finally get done with him as a threat. If he didn''t seize it now, he would be hard pressed. "No," Kai announced, a sly smile playing on his lips. "He needs to come." Killian stared at him, a bewildered frown creasing his forehead. "He needs to come?" "Exactly," Kai said, his voice brimming. "I have a plan." *** A week later, horses whinnied impatiently, their leather tack gleaming with polish. A few guards fetched them from the stables. Packs bulged with supplies, carefully curated for the perils ahead and a tense excitement crackled in the air. A few of the front-row guards, looking grim and determined, oversaw the final preparations under Killians supervision. On the side, Ansel was talking to a guard, his voice pitched up in laughter due to a conversation that passed between them. Feroy stood behind Killian as a deputy to help him straighten everything out before they leave. Even the mercenaries seem to share a weird tension around them. They stood in a loose group, their weathered weapons glinting ominously. Raven was discussing things with Gorak, her eyes carefully scanning through the guards, while Finn and Finnigan were engaged with a few horses, feeding them grains. Kai stood at the front, his spear in his hand. He was checking the sharp edges of the weapon Killian specifically chose for him. Soon, he placed the butt of the weapon on the ground as it stood beside him. His eyes moved to the guards preparing the horses. As he stood there, he heard footsteps and turning his head, he saw a figure emerge from the direction of the manor house. Actra, his robes billowing slightly in the breeze, approached with a confident stride. His wrinkly green eyes flickered across the assembled group, a hint of amusement playing on his lips. "Made the right choice, Lord Arzan," he said. His eyes glinted like he knew Kai would let him come. Once again, Kai pushed down the urge to roll his eyes at this mans oblivious attitude. Behind that smile on his lips, Kai knew there was something. But now was no time to think. Certainly made the right choice, he repeated the same words, in a whisper, almost to himself. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 48. Larvae nest (1) The continuous clop of hooves echoed through the dusty plains as Kai and the rest made their way towards the vermal larvae occupied mines. Kai was having conversations with Actra from time to time about what they were about to encounter. His details were accurate and efficient so that Actra would know how to go with it. He already looked forward to seeing the old Mage''s powers first hand. Kais hold tightened around the horses lead rope. I sent a scout down there so we would know what exactly were dealing with. The scout''s report mentioned a segmented nest," Kai explained. "Multiple chambers, like a twisted beehive." Actra, his face unreadable beneath the shade of his hood, nodded slowly. "Logical for such creatures. The main entrance we saw earlier is likely just the tip of the iceberg, Kai continued, his gaze fixed on the horizon where a plume of smoke billowed into the sky. It was probably coming from the settlements where a few guards were stationed. "The Queen will be holed up in one of the deeper chambers, surrounded by her eggs. We''ll need to clear out the lesser larvae first, but that''s where things get tricky." He paused, glancing at Finn and Finnigan who rode behind them. Their faces were neutral, the nervousness was no longer there. Kai soon brought his attention to Actra. "These things are fast, agile. Engaging them in a prolonged fight could be disastrous. The less harm that we bear, the better for us." Actra nodded. "Leave the crowd control to me, then," he said, his voice was weary due to his age but firm. "I can create a barrier, effectively pinning them down for a short time window." Kai nodded. Maybe [Stasis], Actra said again. Whatever the situation calls for. Kais eyebrows raised. "[Stasis]? That''s an advanced spell. You underestimate me if you think I can''t do such a spell. Actra looked at Kai. The hood didnt cover his lips, which had turned to a faint smile. Besides, down there, we won''t have many options. Would need to do what we can to lower their numbers. Kai nodded. He would need to reach at least another circle to be able to do such a spell. Knowing how much mana it costs, even if he could, he didnt want to spend it all before they could encounter the queen. "And the Queen... how do you plan to handle her?" Actra inquired. "The queen relies on a heightened sense of mana perception instead of sight. We''ll be at a disadvantage the moment we get close to her, unlike the larvae. Shell feel it, and it won''t be pretty." Kai straightened in his saddle. "I''ll deal with her myself," he declared, his voice leaving no room for argument. "My experimental spells are designed to disrupt her mana flow, leaving her vulnerable to a killing blow. He rethought everything he had planned after scouts got the information he needed. If there''s anything you can do to assist" The sentence hung unfinished in the air. Actra stared at him for a long, lingering moment. He looked like he was surprised. He finally pursed his lips together. "Very well," his voice was neutral. "I will try and back you up whenever necessary." Kai nodded curtly. They moved forward without any words. The mine openings were miles away. And, it wouldnt take long for them to reach their destination at the pace that they were going. *** The mine opening loomed over them. They arrived earlier than planned. Kai dismounted, his face grim as he surveyed the scene. He gathered everyone around him, his voice echoing in the silence. "Listen up," he said. "The scout''s report was seen by you all. We''re dealing with a multi-chambered nest. Actra will take point, using a shield to block off their charge. If need arrives, he will use a stasis field to control the lesser larvae. It will hold them for a moment, enough for us to plan our attacks. We need to be swift and efficient eliminate the smaller ones before they overwhelm us." Kai explained knowing that some of the guards werent that knowledgeable about spells. His gaze scanned the group, landing on the nervous faces of the guards. "Stay close, follow orders, and keep your eyes peeled. Once the shield goes up, eliminate any larvae that comes your way. Gorak, Raven, Finn and Finnigan, you''re with me. We''ll focus on breaking through any internal barriers and making our way towards the queen''s chamber right after we attack the smaller ones." A chorus of grunts and nods confirmed their understanding. The soldiers, Enforcers, mercenaries, Kai, Killian and Actra. They all had different things in mind, but one goal hovering their heads. Kai gestured to Killian and Actra, who moved to the front of the group. As they moved towards the tunnel, he felt like the tension was thick like a blade hanging heavy in the air. They entered and a surge of mana formed an orb of light in his palm. The darkness of the tunnel vanished in an instant. Kai could finally see everyones faces. But the most interesting thing was Actras surprised look next to him. The structure of the spell is perfect. Remarkable mana usage, how did you- Kai cut him off with a curt shake of his head. "Practice," he said gruffly, casting the orb down the tunnel to illuminate the area. It was not the time for explanations about his powers. Kai could once again feel as if the mines were closing at them as it was an extremely narrow path for a party of their size. But he kept his feelings for himself as he walked. The others were equally nervous, masking their thoughts with a grim face. Kai saw their eyes keep looking around the small space. Soon, they reached the slope entrance. It had been sealed by a makeshift barricade to avoid any larvae coming out. Remove it, Kai ordered. Two guards from behind walked to the front and peeled it off. He looked at Killian and noticed how the mans stern face was on the dark slope beneath. Kai thought to himself. If there was one thing he wanted, it was to finish their task at hand, while trying to keep every soldier alive. If he could, he would have simply thrown poison bombs inside the nest and let the larvae die a slow death, but their bodies were immune to most types of poison. The only legitimate way to deal with them was to enter the nest. He shook his negative thoughts as soon as they came and took a deep breath. The guards already made way to tighten the rope on everyone and secure it around a few rocks they found inside the mines. They made easy knots on the ropes so that if they wanted, they could remove them to move freely. The entire thing was planned beforehand, so they moved with efficiency. They started their descent, the uneven ground slick with moisture and the oppressive stench of larvae filling their nostrils. Kai sensed the mana fluctuation once again, this time even stronger. The flickering light of Kai''s orb danced across glistening tunnels and writhing tendrils, revealing the grotesque nature of the nest. Finally, they reached the bottom, stepping into a vast chamber pulsating with a sickeningly bitter odour. From the shadows at the far end, a low rumble echoed, sending shivers down their spines. Actra, his eyes gleaming with a strange light as he stared at the Atheum around the chamber, turned to Kai. The Atheum here is in large quantities. No wonder such a huge nest got formed. If we can harvest it, the gains would be uncountable. Kai nodded curtly, his eyes locked on the distant shadows. "Then let''s hope we can eradicate this nest efficiently," he said, his voice laced with a steely determination. "The Atheum can be harvested later." A tense silence hung heavy in the chamber, broken only by the soft scrape of boots against the damp ground. Suddenly, a cacophonous cry pierced the air, ripping through the hushed whispers. Kai''s head snapped up, his gaze following the line of a guard''s terrified scream. On the slick ceiling, a writhing mass of segmented flesh detached itself, raining down a shower of glistening acid. It was a vermal larvae. With a swift flick of his wrist, Actra conjured a shimmering barrier, deflecting the acidic projectile harmlessly to the side. "Get on guard!" Kais voice echoed in the cavernous chamber. The guards started moving while removing the ropes with practised movements. Soon they took positions. Beyond the shield, they saw more larvae crawling down. Their sickening acid goo was spat one after another, reaching every possible end of the shield. Their multifaceted eyes looked down on them. They launched themselves as if they were looking at the guards as their next meal. The Atheums glow showed their full figures. Inky black. Large eyes. Segmented body. The guards all huddled behind Kai, waiting for his order. Actras barrier kept the larvae from spitting acid straight at them and approaching closer. Anytime now, theyll break the shield! Actra yelled. The acid that they spat was already melting parts of it. Kai waited, mentally noting how many of them were there. At least fifteen. Twenty at most. He made a plan in his mind, silently casting a spell structure for a fireball. His mana started rushing in his veins, ready to take on the monsters. The time he took wasnt only for him, it was for everyone to prepare their minds before the charge begins. He looked at Killian and the knight looked back at him. A brief silent conversation, and a nod followed. Now! Actra broke the spell. The larvae jumped forward. The guards from behind rushed in unison. Their swords and shields in their hand. Kai threw a bolt perfectly aiming at the larvae in the front. Ravens arrow went in next, finding itself right in the middle of its head. The larvae let out an ear-piercing noise. Bran dragged his spear, the touch of its butt giving off sparks as it connected with the stone on the ground and started stabbing the larvae over and over. His awakened muscles were stronger than normal guards, and the spear dug deeper into its body, splattering blackened blood all over. With a final hiss, the larvae fell on the floor. Kais hands were quick to throw [Firebolt] at as many larvae as he could. He saw Bord struggling to get his sword out of a larvaes body, but he didn''t have to move to save him. With a rush of mana, vines tightened around its body, giving room for the Enforcer to take out of the sword. Looking next to him, Kai saw Actra moving around vines that rose from the around, binding and holding the larvae in place. Bord gave a curt nod to him and went to the next larvae. Kai stepped back from the middle of the fight to observe where he was needed the most. These were small larvae which the Enforcers and mercs could easily take down. If he could, he wanted to preserve his mana for the queen and as he raked his eyes around, he saw everyone in sync, harming the larvae one after another. Their rotations were well rehearsed and it seemed like having two Mages with them was definitely a moral boost. Suddenly, his eyes squinted at Gareth who cut off one larvas limbs. Gareth! Kai yelled. Behind him, a larvae was just about to spit acidic goo before he moved to the side. Kai sent a gust of wind, sweeping the larvae off the wall of the cave. Gareth brought his sword and quickly walked around the fallen larva. He stabbed it right in the face. Once, twice, thrice, and again. Kai sent a final [Firebolt] at the larvae burning it to the ground. A painful scream came from the monster as the rancid smell spread. The mercs right next to Gareth were taking turns at three larvae. Actra flickered his wrist and cast vines around those larvae, holding them down. It gave them enough time for the warriors to move in while Raven fired her arrows, piercing through the larvae''s skins. Like that, they kept killing more and more larvae. As Kai was thinking everything would go as planned, he felt a tremor. Looking at Actra, his stands were on the floor, sending tremors through the whole chamber. Kai recognised the spell as a 2nd circle one. It was quite handy even if the radius wasn''t big. Thankfully, in this chamber it did the job. The ceiling shook, the larvae falling off the ceiling alongside rocks. As they hit the ground, the distance between them and the guards lessened, making it easier for the guards. The larvae who fell could no longer spit acidic goo from above. Gorak hit one larvaes head with the spiked club he brought with him, but a few more came to surround him. Kai cast a [Cinder circle], hitting the group of larvae with a flaming vortex. Gorak looked where it came from, and continued to move onto the next larvae without any reaction as the group burned to their deaths. Actra was helping a lot of the guards who shielded the mage from any larvae that might get too close, but his spells weren''t nearly enough. The amount of larvae overpowered the guards and mercs and as more and more closed in, charging up at the guards, Killian quickly moved to the next part of their plans. Potions! Killian barked an order garnering everyones attention. The guards were quick on their feet, forming a formation that theyd practised. With ease, they took out potions from their pouches and launched them towards the larvae who were crawling up to them. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. They exploded on contact with their bodies, consuming the larvae as a whole, and giving a putrid smell. Just like Kai had expected. The larvaes screamed, getting away from the guards and slamming into each other as the flames burned their bodies. The portions were the guards'' biggest bet. Two of the explosive potions were given to each guard and healing draughts were kept in batches with a few of them, ready to help anyone that gets injured and can''t continue. They had also been given instructions to use it scarcely and in smaller ranges since they can''t let the explosions get to the Atheum or the ceiling might just fall on them. Though more of the potions remained, Killian was smart not to use them entirely. As the fight again turned in their favour, Kai swiftly walked behind a guards shield and started making up a spell structure. [Astrum Inferno], Kai whispered as the spell structure of an inferno drew in his hand. He pushed mana and cast the spell, blasting off a group of larvae who had just recovered from the explosions from the potions. As soon as the inferno pushed the larvae back, a group of guards plunged their spears into the body of those that had survived. Kai took one look at the surroundings. The larvae count had decreased dramatically. The potions had worked. Only four of them were left, and they could easily take them do- A wall to the left broke. The dust hit their nostrils as guards coughed and backed away. Cover! Killian commanded. Guards with massive shields walked forward the group and waited for the dust to die down. A huge ball of acid flew out, hitting the wall behind the huddled fighters. It was twice no, thrice the size that was spitted by the larvae who were dead on the floor. Kais eyes widened at the monstrous larvae who crawled from the broken wall. If the larvae they had defeated were akin to toddlers, these were like adolescents. And the worst part was that the fully-grown adult was still to come. How big can they get?! Ansels voice came loud next to Kai. For a split second, everyone in the chamber thought the same thing. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 49. Larvae nest (2) Ansel grunted from behind. Kai raised his palm in the air, fire erupting from his fingertips. The flames formed a swirling vortex, incinerating the first larvae who launched at them. But as the stench of burning chitin filled the air, the new nightmare revealed itself. It wasnt just that the larvae were merely overgrown versions of their brethren. Their segmented bodies, thicker than a mans torso, were adorned with jagged stone spikes that ran down their backs like a macabre crown. The ethereal blue glow from the Atheum stones cast a light that gave them a horrifying look as their inky black bodies moved forward with ease. Kais fire hadnt harmed them much due to the spikes protecting them. Before they could fully process what was before them, the larvae used the spikes. They launched a volley of rock-like projectiles with a sickening snap. The missiles whistled through the air, leaving trails of glower embers as they reached the shield of a guard who stumbled back before Feroy caught him. Ah! What was that?! A guard from behind shouted, but there was no time to linger and think. Sarch* The N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai looked at Gorak who was already tightening his grip around his weapon. His eyes lingered on him for a second before he said something incomprehensive, loud enough for his team. Finn and Finnigan responded with a grunt. In a snap, Gorak, the leader of the mercenaries stepped forward. His spiked club was over his shoulder. Raven! His voice was loud. The rest of the crowd took a step back, letting the mercenaries handle the monstrous larvae without interrupting their team rotations. The elven archer in the back swiftly aimed at the larvaes head. Her aim was perfect, and her arrow glowed, and shimmered through the air, cutting it into pieces as it finally hit the larva in a heartbeat. It was clear that she was using her spirits energy. Without a pause, next came Finns spear. His leg movements were fluid while he jumped on the larvae. He hammered the spear against the larvas frontal part, bruising its cover voluntarily. He rolled off the floor with ease and attacked the same larvae from behind. The monster let out a cry in pain as the spear drew black blood. The stone cover was harmed as it splattered around. Actra, shield now! Kai yelled before more larvae could rush in. Actra immediately flickered his wrist. A spell structure lit up on his palm and immediately a shield separated the guards from the larvae, leaving the mercenaries to deal with one of them. Raven shot four arrows right at different parts of its segmented body. Carefully aiming at the coverless parts, oozing blood out like a fountain from its sides. The larvae were stubborn. It kept spitting acid all over the floor. In large balls that Gorak barely avoided as his spiked club thrashed its head over and over. Without a command from their leader, Finnigan launched at the larvae, his sword in his hand. Raven from behind said something inaudible as Finnigans sword glistened with green energy. It stuck the larvaes face. The larva screeched as the sword sliced the face from its body. The latter part of its body shook vigorously for a few seconds before it completely lay still. But it wasn''t the end. Seeing one of their brethren dead, the larvae standing behind launched themselves at them and more of the acid flew, hitting the shield. The mercenaries barely avoided getting crushed as they dodged to the side. Kai gaped as cracks started to appear on the shield and Actra gritted his teeth, putting more mana on top of it, trying to hold them. However, everyone knew it was going to take only a moment before the shield broke for real. Kai frowned before looking at Killian. Feeling his gaze, Killian looked back and an inaudible conversation passed by them as they both nodded. Mage Actra, let those bastards in, Killians voice was gruff. He waved his sword in the air, twisting it around in circles while preparing for what was yet to come. Are you sure? Actras voice was shaky. Yes, Kai said briefly. The shield took off, while the larvae spat acids all over the place. Cover! Kai stood behind a guard as they moved away from the acidic gooey balls. Get behind me, Actra said while he protected them from the larvaes attacks by building small shields that were easier to keep up for him. While they were busy avoiding the acidic substances, Killian sprung himself on a larvae. His sword was on the larvaes head as it started to bite at it. Ravens voice came loud and incomprehensive. Kai looked back and saw her tall figure at the back commanding her spirit. Take it out! She yelled with a grunt as her ever-ready arrow found its way to larvae. Her aim was diligent and powerful. Killian ran forward and jumped hanging onto the larvaes slick body. His fingers dug inside its body while he climbed up and withdrew his sword. Suddenly, the sword glistened with a green glow. By this point, Kai knew that her spirit had the power to give temporary enchantments to weapons. What kind? He didn''t know. His eyes went to Finnigan''s sword. The man was thrashing against a larva, jumping as the giant creature tried to make him paste by jumping on top of him. But the glow wasnt there. It seemed like she could only enchant one weapon at a time. AH! Killian grunted again as he moved with purpose. His sword jabbed and thrashed on any skin he found. The larvae tried to use spikes, but it was soon on the floor, unable to deal with the speed Killian was moving. His movements were a sight to see. Like a dance with a sword. His entire form was solid in every attack he launched. An Enforcers agility and strength could be compared to at least a combination of twenty normal untrained men. And it showed. He swung, deflecting the missiles that the larvae aimed at him. But as soon as he put space between him and the monster, he closed it with an even more powerful sword hit. Like that, he killed one larvae and moved to another. One disadvantage of the larvae was their speed. Unlike the smaller ones, they couldn''t move fast enough and it gave Killian the edge, just enough to come out on top. Soon, he had killed three and only two were left. Killian ran around one larvae, with his sword to his side. The larvaes spiked stone fell on the ground, barely missing Killians shoulder. He didnt pause, didnt flinch, and he dug his sword deep inside its body. ARGH! He dragged it along its segmental body. Slicing it into two. Blood spewed all over his body, drenching him. He didnt stop until he was at the very back of the larvae. He threw his sword in the air and jumped to the next larvae while catching it with one hand and aiming it right at the last remaining larvae. The monster shrieked as it hit its inky black, large eyes. The larvae shook its head roughly. Killians sword found its other eyes. He pummeled it on them, drenching his arms with its nasty blood. The monster struggled, but Killian didn''t let go and kept going deeper into the larvae''s skull before it was sprawled on the ground, unmoving. Killian took deep breaths as the glow dimmed, nodding at Raven as thanks. When he had been busy with the group of larvae, other guards had dealt with the ones he had missed. Kai quickly sent a small ball of light towards the chamber the spiked larvae came from, looking for any they might have missed. Nothing. With a smile, Kai looked at the guards. Forward! He commanded everyone. It took a moment for them to register it. A few guards were sitting against a wall while the others were tending to their injuries, but Kai also saw a lot of them looking at Killian in awe. Although the other Enforcers had dealt with a few larvae, none of them were at the level of Killian who had taken on a group of them himself. Kai saw a few of them, particularly Feroy and Bord, looking like they were wondering when they would be at that level. Even Actra who had been shielding the guards with his vines and keeping the larvae in check seemed a bit stunned, but he hid it quietly. Killian slowly made his way through the massive dead bodies and curtly nodded at Kai. Lets go, Kai said, hiding the pinch of pride that surged inside his body. They moved forward, leaving behind the dead bodies of the larvae. They had to move past the Atheum-filled walls and ceilings. There was only one passage and as they moved through it, the dim light from the Aetheum lessened and they were swallowed by an oppressive darkness that pulsed with a sickly sweet stench. Bioluminescent fungi clung to the damp walls. Kai lit up a light ball immediately, but this time, it wasnt a big one that emanated through the entire closed space, rather kept track of their feet and where they were headed. He didnt want to attract any unwanted attention from any larvae. The sounds of their footsteps blended as they walked at the same pace. The air became thicker with less oxygen to breathe. But the mana inside the cave kept increasing as they walked and even the flow was a bit different, hinting at the monsters up ahead. Kai stole a glance at Actra whose usual mask was replaced by a mixture of fear and confidence. Were walking on the dents of the nest. The queen''s chambers should come to be near, Kai said in a hush. Actra nodded. The mana flow is a bit different here. We should keep an eye out for anything that might attack us, he said. The floor and the walls got wetter as they met with a division. Kai walked through one side and saw how the partition was only for a small area. The two ways adjoined to one right after the division ended. He turned to let them know, but before he could say anything, his eyes went to the dark ceiling behind the group. The inky black bodies glistening went unnoticed by Kai, and seeing his eyes, everyone else turned to look up. Run! He shouted. Within a moment, the group came behind the partition that kept a lot of them hidden from the crawling larvae on the ceiling. The larvae noticed their shift and spat acidic goo at the men. One went straight at a guard, burning his back completely. The guard muffled his pain and fell on the floor. Actras shield was quick to hover over them. The larvae increased their attempt by quickening their pace. Kai threw a [Firebolt] hitting the larvae that were to the front. The larva hissed in pain while the others stopped, clearly wary of Kai. Killian, prepare the potions, Kai whispered and looked at him with stern eyes. He nodded and started whispering about the plan in his mind to the guards that were beside him. Kai launched two more [Firebolt] above the shield, hitting the larvae, and burning their flesh. He could take these normal-sized larvae down single-handedly, but rather than wasting his mana, the potions would easily lessen their numbers that had almost taken the entire ceiling under their control. With a pre-arranged signal, Killian launched himself forward, leading the charge, Feroy right on his back. His staff trailed on the damp floor. Simultaneously, three guards who stayed back under his instructions threw potions at the larvae, burning half of them down and the rest slumped down one after another. The heat was intense, immediately accompanied by the malodorous burnt smell that had become familiar to everyone''s nostrils. The sweet smell of the nest combined with the burnt smell was not a good combination. The twins grabbed something from their back pockets and pounced. They were blades. Sharp, and slicing through the larvae. Their movements were similar to wraiths. The blades blurred as the larvae fell with loud screeches. Kai frowned, hoping no other monster would attack from behind as they dealt with the ones on the ceiling. Theyve already encountered at least fifty of these monsters and he had no idea how many more were left. The guards fought with a good sense of where to hit them due to their recent encounter. Kai, who stood a bit far unleashed a torrent of fire, engulfing the larvae in a searing inferno. With that, every larvae fell on the floor, emptying the ceiling. His fire lit the rest of the pathway, giving them a good idea of what lay ahead. Actra summoned thorny vines from the very floor of the nest, binding creatures limbs in a writhing mass who were trying to run away. Gorak stayed behind while observing and letting Finn, Finnigan and Raven take care of what was left. Ravens arrows, Finns spear and Finnigans sword worked in sync. The Enforcers were right behind. Their weapons clashed with the larvae''s body parts, spurting blood from everywhere. But the one who surprised Kai the most was the travelling desert warrior Ansel. He spun, jumped and moved with extremely swift agility. Often hed slow his attacks but would pick himself right up, timing them to match the larvae''s moments and killing them quicker than the others. After all, he was no Enforcer. But for a normal human, he had an appreciable amount of energy, skill and technique. The larvaes numbers quickly depreciated as they worked their way through them, but then suddenly, a sharp sound came from the side. Kai turned his head and saw a guard crumpled on the ground, clutching a wound. A larva was upon him, ready to eat him up whole. Kai quickly threw a [Firebolt] at the monster and it shrieked back. It gave the guard the opportunity he was looking for and even though he was on the ground, he grabbed his spear that had fallen and pierced it right through the larvaes body. It seemed to be the last larvae alive and once he was dead, the guard finally took a sigh of relief as a few others came to his rescue with a potion. Just as Kai was thinking the threat had passed, a primal dread washed over him. It wasn''t a sound, not exactly, but a shift in the very fabric of the mana around them. The air crackled with raw, pulsating power a power, unlike anything he''d sensed before. The cavern floor trembled beneath their feet, sending a jolt of panic through the group. Their answer materialized in a flash. They all looked behind to where Kai was at the entrance of the path of the partition. Kai turned around and ran back to the small space where the floor was filled with larvae dead bodies. From the depths of the chamber, a monstrous creature lumbered into view. Fuck Kai muttered slowly. Kai gulped a good amount of saliva as he took in its body. He felt his imagination being crumpled to the ground, seeing the queen as it was even bigger than what he had expected. Its segmented black body, easily twice the size of the largest larvae they had encountered, filled the chamber like a living battering ram. Its glistening carapace reflected the sickly green light of the fungi, casting grotesque shadows on the cavern walls. Colossal mandibles, dripping with a noxious liquid, hung open in a silent scream. Glowing eyes, the size of cartwheels, burned with a powerful malice. This wasn''t just a monstrous insect; it was a living embodiment of rage and hunger. The queen reeked the smell of mana. With a deafening screech that sent shivers down their spines, the queen larvae launched itself towards them. MOVE! Killians voice echoed through the cave. A volley of acidic projectiles spewed from its maw, each the size of a man''s head and leaving sizzling trails in their wake as the guards rushed to get back to safety. - Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 50. Kai vs queen The men obeyed Killians command immediately. They started moving away from the partition, heading towards the same direction they came from. It was their only way. If they stay still, one of the volley-sized acid balls could melt them to the ground. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai needed something to distract the queen and buy them time to prepare a counter-offensive. But the more they ran backwards, the more he knew the queen would ramp up its attacks. They soon returned to the room where they had fought off the larvae. The queen was right behind them. Its head almost touched the ceiling of the cavern. Despite its size, compared to the other larvae, it was faster. Kai turned around on his feet and threw a [Wind Spear] attempting to distract it. While the men behind him fastened to put a decent distance, Kais feet slowed down as he saw the spear cutting through a corner of its body. The monstrous queen sent another ear-piercing roar and the next second, the spot where his spell had made a dent closed as quickly as it appeared. The next second, acid flew towards them. A sickening thud echoed as one of the projectiles she sent slammed into a guards shield. Its acidic spray ate through the metal with a hiss. Ahh! The guards scream halted everyone there momentarily as he threw the shield aside and backed up. The acid found its way to his flesh and melted through his armour. He crumpled to the ground, a smoking husk. Kais eyebrows furrowed. He looked around for anything that could help him in the chaos. Something to help him halt the queen, but there was nothing. Much to his terror, the queen spat another acidic volley. To match it, Kai burned up his mana and formed a quick structure for a [Firebolt], but this time, he changed it and made the bolt much larger. He aimed right at the acidic ball. The clash of both acid and fire exploded with a loud noise. Its remnants flew in the air and turned to thick vapour. The guards scrambled behind, and Kais movements faltered. There was no running anymore and the only way was to deal with the queen. He scanned it briefly before the queen''s numerous eyes fell on him, sending shivers down his spine that he quickly ignored. The monster grunted as if appraising Kai before a low growl burst forth, vibrating through their very bones. With another growl, a sudden surge of power, and a wave of vibrant, dangerous, pulsating mana erupted from the queen. Kais thoughts halted when he saw larvae crawling on the ceiling. He also saw the ones they had fought before the partition appearing from behind the queen. They didn''t have time to check whether they were dead due to the queen''s sudden appearance and as he stared at them, he saw their wounds knitting themselves shut. The scars they previously received from Kais flames and Actras vines were no longer there. Their movements seemed visibly faster as they launched the attack, far more aggressive than the last time. Kai threw [Wind Gust] keeping away the larvae. His grim frown deepened as more and more of them appeared. Anger flared in his gut, but he forced it down. The queens face twitched in some unknown emotion. He took a breath. Now wasnt the time for rage. He needed to keep his emotions in check. He slammed his spear against the ground, a silent command to everyone in the back. The mercenaries, Enforcers, guards and even Actra understood what it meant. They formed a protective ring and took their formations, prepared to handle what was going to come next. Kai unleashed a torrent of fire, a swirling inferno that carved a path through the horde of larvae. It was a desperate attempt to create a barrier between them and the enraged queen. "Brace yourselves!" he roared, his voice cutting through the din of battle. "The real battle starts now!" Despite the battles they had, the guards'' numbers were surprisingly intact. The potions and coordinated attacks had taken their toll on the larvae. They might be battered, but they were far from being broken. Kai flickered his wrist and threw a [Inferno] burning more larvae down. They fell on the floor, but before the queen could heal them, a few guards moved to the front, their weapons aiming at the annoying creatures screeching on the floor. Before they could cease them, the larvae got up, yanking themselves forward, in a moment of inexplicable strength. They crawled, spitting acid right at guards. The men jumped back, unwilling to burn themselves. The larvae are being powered by the queen. Keep on your guard! Kai shouted, flickering his wrist and jumping back to avoid a group of larvae that rushed at him. He cast another [Inferno] attempting to throw the larvae away. Killian! Take care of them! Kai ordered. Enforcers, follow Killian! he said as his eyes made contact with Bran, Bord, Nelson and Gareth. They all swung forward in a blur, going after the groups of larvae stacked together. From the corner of his eye, he saw Ansel launching at the larvae. He leapt up to the side as a larva charged, but before it could touch him, his spear hit its sides. The larvae let out a loud screech in pain, but another strike pierced its head. Even as its wounds began to knit together, Ansel kept stabbing, ending its life and moving to his next target. Kai smiled at him before looking at the queen. It was time to move back to their main plan. Looking back, he saw vines binding larvae in one place as guards stabbed their bodies. Actra stood at the back and their eyes matched as Kai gestured. He immediately understood and frowned before moving towards him. Both of them stared at the queen. The queens eyes were on the larvae, attacking with spitballs that the men dodged. As more and more of its children died, it seemed to flare up, letting out loud growls. Wait for my command, and then attack, Kai whispered, noticing the queens aura emanating, healing the larvae. He prepared spells on his palm, his breath quickening and his posture steadying. A few seconds passed by and he waited, then suddenly the queens eyes fell on him. Now! Kai and Actra launched a combined assault. He unleashed a series of [Firebolts], aiming for the queens black, inky, glowing eyes, hoping to blind it or disrupt its focus. Right behind him, Actra weaved a series of structures in the air. Thick, emerald vines erupted from the cavern floor, coiling and twisting towards the monstrous queen. They lashed out like living serpents, aiming to bind the creature''s body doing their best to halt its movements! But the queen was simply too powerful. Its body was strong as it snapped the vines with a sickening crack, emerald ichor spraying across the damp stone like bioluminescent rain. Fury, raw and primal, contorted the queen''s face. Its acidic attacks, dripping with a caustic liquid that sizzled ominously, snapped at them with terrifying speed. Kai, caught off guard by the sudden surge of aggression, barely managed to deflect one with a hastily conjured wall of fire. The heat singed his arm, sending a jolt of pain that ripped through him. He gritted his teeth, the metallic tang of blood filling his mouth. His mana came rushing in as anger boiled through every cell. , he told himself. He tightened his arm around his spear and launched at the queen. A fire spell first, then an attack from the spear. He thrust, swept and slashed it at different angles. His fire found its way to different parts of its humongous body. But the queen''s skin was thick. His attacks left only shallow scratches. Even his flames which could potentially burn most larvae to crisp weren''t potent enough against her. Kai threw a [Inferno] at the queen''s head, aiming to put a safe distance and launched its spear forward, running behind the queen, attacking somewhere around the belly. Its oily hide acted as a barrier. His spear mark was gone before it inflicted any lasting damage. Kais breath wavered as disbelief flooded him. He had heard of the queen''s strength and read about it, but its regenerative abilities were beyond his plans. This was something he hadnt expected, a creature far more powerful. But there was no time for dwelling on the unexpected. With a mental shrug, he barked a command at Actra, his voice hoarse from the exertion."Hold it off! I need to focus!" Actra, his face grim with exertion, nodded and wrestled with the queen. His elemental magic seemed paltry against the queen''s raw power. He strained, his hands glowing with a desperate intensity as he conjured more and more vines, each one a desperate attempt to slow the queen''s relentless rampage. As the queen battled with the vines, Kai kept looking for a weakness. Countless spells came to his mind. He was still in the 2nd circle, but he knew 3rd circle spells that could damage the queen. It''s just the mana cost was too much and they were underground, so it might just end up using all the oxygen in here, killing everyone. Still, there was no time to think. Every second mattered and after going through the spells he knew, one came to his mind. He took his time to weave the spell patterns for it, careful to not make a mistake. One pattern appeared in his palms, then the second one, and by the third, Kai felt a pressure on his shoulders that almost made him stagger. It was called [Dragon''s Breath]. Obviously, it wasn''t a real one since it was impossible to replicate it, but it was one which closely resembled it and if he was right, he would be enough to burn the queen. Anglo Granda Zakai! He slowly muttered the incantation, mana rushing out of him as the structure lit up. For a moment, Kai felt like the spell was pulling energy straight from his soul as a massive dark flame burst forth, obliterating everything in its path. With Actras vines barely managing to hold the queen, the dark flames hit right on its cartwheel-sized eye and caused the queen to stagger. It hit the wall, shaking the whole cave down. The impact of the flames caused the queen to scream in agony as over half of its face peeled away. But it wasn''t dead yet. While trying to keep himself intact, Kai sent another [Inferno] at it, pushing a generous amount of mana on the spell, slightly increasing its effect and hoping to end the battle. The flaming inferno hit right where the dark flames had before engulfing other parts of its bodies. Another scream burst from the queen. The men who were fighting the larvae paused for a moment, clearly wondering if it was over. But then, amidst those cries, it roared and balanced itself once again. Kai''s face paled as he took a step back. Actra had managed to tie vines around the queen, but fueled with the lethal rage, it ripped free from the restraints. With a burst of speed that seemed impossible for its massive form, it rampaged around the chamber, its glowing eyes burning with a manic intensity. The damage Kai had done seemed to not affect it. Panic surged through the ranks of the battered group. Guards scrambled for cover, some falling victim to the queen''s flailing limbs or the acidic spray that dripped from its mandibles. Their shields barely covered their entire bodies as the queen was all over the place. Even the larvae, caught in the crossfire of the queen''s mad frenzy, were not spared. Their segmented bodies were ripped apart, their acidic ichor adding to the scene in front of them. "Berserk state!" Actra roared. "It''ll destroy anything in its path! We need to get out of here!" Kais jaw clenched as he shook his head. "No! We can''t just escape! It would simply" His words were cut short by a deafening crash that shook the very foundations of the cavern. The queen, in its crazed rampage, had slammed into the cavern wall with a force that sent tremors through the chamber. Chunks of rock rained down, narrowly missing some of the already injured guards. Kai cursed, his mind racing for a solution. . He fumbled through his repertoire of spells, searching for anything that could exploit this unexpected turn of events. But his mind was a blank slate and his mana reserves weren''t enough to do another [Dragon''s Breath]. Frustration crawled at him as the monstrous queen continued its rampage. Everything slowed for him as his thoughts rose high. Then, as his gaze swept across the cavern in a desperate search, it landed on the pulsating mana stones embedded in the ceiling. A spark of inspiration ignited in his eyes. "Actra!" he roared, his voice hoarse from the exertion. "Protect the guards!" Actra, following Kai''s gaze, understood his plan instantly. "Thats crazy!" he barked. Protect the men! Kai said again, completely ignoring Actras hesitation. His focus was laser sharp on the Atheum. With a surge of mana, he unleashed a torrent of fire bolts, not directed at the queen, but at the Atheum high above. The cavern echoed with a deafening explosion as the mana stones shattered, showering the chamber in a blinding white light. The shockwave from the blast rippled through the air, shaking the very foundations of the nest. - Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 51. Aftermath The walls of the cave shuddered violently as the Atheum erupted in a blinding explosion. As the mana pulsed out of the stones, it gave an entirely eerie feeling sending a shiver down Kais spine. The ceiling groaned in protest, showering the people in a rain of dust and stones. Kai looked to his right, seeing Actras squinted eyes and straightened arm making vines emerge from the floor, spiralling and writhing around the remaining guards and mercenaries to protect them. Killian and the other Enforcer who were far away from the blasts, scrambled for cover behind massive rock outcroppings, their shields raised high. The explosion slammed into the queen with a battering ram force. A shriek tore from the queens mouth, unlike any he had heard before. Atheum stones hit the queens frontage continuously as it tried to dodge. Due to its massive body, there was nowhere to run, but Kai couldn''t help feeling like the queen might still survive the explosion and escape. Even now, he could see parts of its body trying to regenerate. He took one glance around. The space was clear as the guards had moved behind. He didnt spare another second before he emptied his mana reserves. More bolts tore through the air to hit the remaining mana stones. They blasted with an ear-deafening noise. The queen''s previously berserk stage was halted with more and more stones pinning it down as the ceiling fell. The lower long, segmented body was bruised with inky dark blood splattering everywhere. It kept screaming, trying to shield itself somehow, but failed. For a moment, its eyes locked with Kai who saw vulnerability in them, but he matched it with cold focus. He grabbed his spear and putting all his strength into it, aimed it at the queen. It streaked through the air like a shooting star, and slammed into the queen''s exposed chest the very spot where the explosion had ripped away a section of its protective flesh. A final, ear-splitting shriek erupted from the queen''s maw and it took a few steps back. More stones fell from the ceiling on it. The queen''s segmented body convulsed, buckling beneath the immense weight. Kais entire body shook with the crash as the larvae queen slammed to the ground, its lifeless body twitching spasmodically. Silence descended upon the chamber, broken only by the ragged gasps of Kai. He found himself sighing in relief. A moment passed, and another. Kais hands were on his knees as he waited for the dust to settle. His mana reserves were run dry due to all the spells he used back to back. He knew hed lifelessly fall to the floor if he used another spell. Soon, the vision became clear, revealing the queen motionless on the ground. On top of it, large glistening stones cut through its very being, aimed around its throat, eyes, chest and lower back. Kai took an unsure step forward. The remaining larvae, their inky black glow flickering erratically, seemed to sag, their movements lethargic as if their life force had been sapped away with the queen''s demise. He let out a shaky breath. They did it. They survived. Boots clicking against the cold stone made him turn his head. Actra was accompanied by two guards who were looking shocked at what had transpired. Just as a flicker of a smile touched Kai''s lips, he paused. From the corner of his eye, he saw something launching forward. A single, segmented leg twitched on the ground a lone larva, seemingly unharmed by the falling debris, surged forward with surprising speed. Its mandibles gnashed, targeting Actra and two guards who were momentarily caught off guard, their focus solely on the aftermath of the battle. A primal scream tore from Actra''s throat as he saw the lone larvae surge towards them. Panic flared in his eyes, his staff trembling in his grasp. He fumbled with an incantation, a hastily constructed spell meant to blast the creature back. But the larvae, fueled by rage for the queen''s death, ignored the sputtering vines and jumped straight at them. By the size of the vines, it was clear that Actra mana reserves were low. He shoved the two nearest guards forward, his voice cracking with fear. Defend me! He stumbled backwards, his boots slipping on the dusty floor. The guards, caught off guard by the sudden movement, hesitated for a precious split second. It was all that the larvae needed. With lightning speed, it snapped acidic goo at them. One guard crumpled instantly, a sickening spray of crimson blossoming on his chest. The other guard, his face contorted in terror, raised his shield in a desperate attempt to defend himself. But the larvae''s acid was more dangerous than fire, tearing through the metal with a sickening screech. Killian, his nose flared and eyes stern rushed forward in front of the struggling guard. His longsword, a blur of silver, cleaved through the larvae in a single, brutal motion. The creature twitched once, then lay still, its ichor pooling on the damp stone floor. Once he made sure it was dead, Killian spun on Actra, his eyes blazing with barely contained rage. "What in the hells was that?!" he roared, his voice echoing through the cavern. Actra scrambled to his feet, his face flushed crimson while he shook his head to cover his shame. "What?" he stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "Those were ordinary guards!" Killian bellowed, gesturing at the fallen men. You are a Mage. How could you put them in front of the larvae instead of dealing with it yourself?" They were there to protect me. That was their responsibility and that''s what they did, Actra said, sneering. And your duty was to kill the larvae and you clearly failed in that. Killian scrunched up his face and glared. Actra opened his mouth to retort, but Kai stepped between them, holding his hand up to stop the conversation. Kai saw Actra visibly relax. He looked down at the fallen guards, his eyes going over their lifeless forms and blood that was streaking towards his shoes. Then, his gaze met Actra''s. "You didn''t have enough mana for another spell," Kai stated flatly, his voice devoid of accusation, but heavy with disappointment. Actra shrugged. Yes, the battle took a lot out of me," he mumbled. Kai shook his head. He had seen the flicker of fear in Actra''s eyes, the way he had prioritized his own safety over the lives of the guards. It was more than that. You panicked. Even if I agree that you don''t have a lot of mana, you have enough tricks to deal with the larvae yourself. Kai said, calmly. You risked the guards life to buy yourself more time, rather than dealing with them and protecting the men, he paused. Thats an act of an incompetent Mage. Actra opened his mouth, no doubt to argue, but Kai cut him off. "We''ll discuss this later," Kai said, his tone leaving no room for debate. He slowly walked up the slope with the help of Killian and surveyed the remaining guards, some injured, others shaken but alive. "Let''s get them patched up. We need to get out of here." He reached into one of the bags filled with portions and retrieved a vial filled with a shimmering, green liquid. As he uncorked it, a faint glow emanated from within. "These are called life potions," he explained, his voice calmer now. "Theres more inside the bags. Make sure its of this exact colour before you give it. Think of them as potions for vitality. They''ll help stabilize the wounded. Might not completely heal everything, but should be strong enough to get you all back to the castle." Killian nodded and ordered Feroy to tend to the wounded immediately. A few guards who could still walk came forward to take the potion and distribute it among everyone. Its over, Killians voice came, looking over the guards who were getting the potions. Kai nodded at the words. The cavern made his voice echo and soon before they knew it, a ragged cheer erupted from the survivors. It was a cheer with exhaustion and relief. Kai nodded at everyone while taking a glance around. The Enforcers, their once pristine armour was a mess of dust and gore, slumped against the cavern walls. Nelson was looking at his calf where a small chunk was burnt. He felt Kais eyes on him and looked up with a faint smile. The others were sitting by an adjacent wall, talking among themselves. That was a good one, eh? Bords gruff voice cut through the cheers. It was. Almost thought I wouldn''t survive, Gareth said, right next to him. Never knew I would return to the mines like this. The mines making you remember old times? Want to return to being a miner? Bard asked with a grin. Nah, money is not enough and if I returned, you would brag about having the most kills after Feroy. I can''t let that happen. Everyone else laughed and snickered as Bard frowned at Gareth. Opposite them, Gorak had his arms tightened in front of his chest. As always, he showed no expression at the win, but he kept glancing at Finn who was getting bandaged by Raven. Don''t move. It will be okay. You already drank the potion, she spoke quietly, crouching to see Finns knee. A larvae had attacked with an acidic ball and his skin had peeled away completely. Im alright, dont worry! Finn said through a hiss. A lot of guards were in similar situations, sitting on the ground, tending to their wounds. The potions helped them immediately, but there were still others who were critical, needing support to stand up. Lets head back to the city soon, Kai straightened up in his position and looked around. We survived and won the battle against the queen larvae and the guards need to rest. We shouldn''t stay in the cave for long. Killian nodded to him and looked at the guards. Start walking the same way we came, he said while signalling the group to walk through the exit. Help those who can''t walk. Let''s get some fresh air. *** With a final, lingering press of his boot onto the queen''s cracked carapace, Kai gritted his teeth and pushed himself away. The rhythmic groans of the wounded being carried out echoed faintly down the tunnel. He wanted to join them and find his way to his bed to rest his body. But there were things he had to do before he could get out of the nest. Although they had killed the queen, its eggs remained. The last thing he wanted was more of these larvae to spawn just because of his carelessness. Leaving the faint glow of the chamber behind, Kai ventured deeper into the twisting tunnels. The air grew thick and stale, the acrid tang of decay clinging to his throat. The familiar sight of bioluminescent fungi painted the walls in sickly greens and blues, their pulsating glow casting grotesque shadows that danced at the edge of his vision. Every skittering sound, every rustle in the darkness, sent a jolt through him. Unlike the earlier battle, there was no roar of defiance to precede an attack here. Just the unsettling silence, broken only by the rasp of his own breath and the crunch of his boots on the rocky floor. He stumbled upon abandoned chambers, filled with the last remains of the larvaes food. Skeletons of unfortunate creatures giant rats, armoured beetles, even the desiccated remains of a massive cave bat picked clean and bleached white. For a moment, he wondered where they had come from. He couldn''t see any other opening in the tunnels, leading outside. Were there simply more nests here other than the larvae nests? That seemed likely. He didn''t linger on these thoughts, deciding to send a scouting team to find if there were more nests around later. For now, he had to find the eggs. Therefore, he walked. Minutes bled into an hour, measured only by the burn in his legs. He fiddled with a chunk of a mana stone he had grabbed from the Atheum that was on the floor. Its light was dim, but enough to show where he was headed. The tunnels seemed to twist and turn endlessly, a cruel labyrinth designed to sap his will. Finally, after what felt like an eternity spent traversing the bowels of the earth, he squeezed through a particularly narrow passage and emerged into a new chamber. This one was different. Eerie emerald light pulsed from the ceiling, emanating from large, mana stones embedded in the rock. They glistened with a slow, rhythmic beat, like a malevolent heart. But it was the sight at the centre of the room that chilled him to the bone. Nestled amongst the pulsating stones lay a clutch of eggs, each the size of a sparrow''s body. Their surface shimmered with a faint ethereal glow. Kai could almost feel the writhing mass of segmented bodies and annoying acidic spit balls within, waiting to burst into existence. His hand twitched, a ball of fire forming instinctively at his fingertips, wanting to blast every one of them off. His mana has recovered enough to finish them off. His eyes stared at the eggs for a while before he took a final look around the chamber. It was then that something came into his view. On the side, on top of a pile of Atheum, a leather bag was placed. He blinked his eyes, wondering if he was even seeing it tight. What''s a bag doing here? Kai cautiously approached the bag and picked it up. The leather was cracked and worn, like the hide of an ancient beast. It had clearly been here for years. He untied the fastenings, a puff of dust erupting as he peered inside. Nestled inside was a single, leather-bound book. Its cover was marred with grime and mildew. He opened it up and froze. In faded lettering, there were lots of sentences written on it and he slowly read out the first of them. "I''m hoping my research into the larvae bears fruit and Sonia grows big with the Atheum here." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n sea??h th N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 52. Sonia Furrowing his brow, Kai flipped through the brittle pages. A wave of confusion washed over him as he deciphered the faded ink. His eyebrows raised as he took the details. The entries were written in the elven language, but a few words didn''t make sense to him. Either they were words he had never read or the ink had faded, making them completely different than intended. Still, he was able to make up most of it, slowly going through a few entries. The loneliness must be hard on her, confined to this chamber. I try to visit as often as possible, speaking to her in soothing tones, even though I doubt she truly understands. But perhaps, in her own primal way, she feels the care I put into her growth. The entries, scrawled in a hurried hand, chronicled the observations of what he assumed to be a researcher someone who referred to the monstrous queen with a disturbing tenderness. He flipped the book around again and tried to see if there was any more information. The dust had clung to it and there were no handprints imprinted on it, meaning it wasn''t used in a very long time. He opened it again, skimming through different passages. Well, well, it seems like whoever this guy was really into Sonia. One passage gushed about the "adorable little darling" and how her "iridescent body already gleamed so beautifully, even at this small size." Another spoke of the researcher''s hope that the queen, whom he endearingly called "Sonia," would grow up "big and strong, the prettiest queen this nest has ever seen!" Kai winced. Pretty? Strong, sure, but pretty? The image of the monstrous queen he had just faced, its glistening maw dripping with caustic acid, flashed in his mind. He fought back a shudder. The researcher then detailed his experiment. The abundance of Atheum in this chamber was supposed to accelerate Sonia''s growth. "With all this magical energy," the entry read, "she should be a real terror in no time! Can''t wait to see how big you''ve gotten, my little queen. I know you must be lonely down there, but I''ll be back soon to visit!" Kai snorted. Lonely? The researcher clearly hadn''t considered the other creatures dwelling in the nest C the very ones Sonia, in her ravenous hunger, would likely devour. The absurdity of it all, the bizarre affection for a monstrous creature, left Kai with a hollow feeling in his gut. He clutched the book tighter, his initial urge to destroy the eggs momentarily forgotten. This wasn''t just about wiping out a potential threat now; it was about unravelling why the man had put the queen here and if the book wasn''t touched for years, does that mean he was dead? Or had forgotten about the nest he created? Kai tucked the book into his satchel, questions buzzing in his head. He had a feeling this researcher, and whatever secrets this book held would be very interesting to go through. Going by how the man had planted the queen here, he was probably a Mage. The book was more of a journal and he had only read a few like these before. Most of them he had found in ancient ruins. He patted his bag again before moving carefully around the chamber. Countless eggs aside, it was mostly empty. He searched for any secret opening, thinking maybe there could be more to this, but no. Every corner was an unarguable ending. No dents, no hidden passages. Just the larvae eggs. He even thought maybe he could find something more about this absurd researcher but there was nothing other than the journal. Before leaving this hellhole, he had to finish his task. His eyes went to the eggs that glistened, seemingly like they were staring at Kai, waiting to burst out of the shell and suck the little life out of him. I need to burn these little bastards to the ground. He raised his hand in the air. Only a small amount of mana was left in his very being, but he knew it would be enough for the eggs. They weren''t known to be sturdy after all. Kai unleashed a first circle [Burning Hands], bathing the chamber in cleansing fire. The pulsating Atheum and the glistening eggs writhed as a large burning hand grasped them, their chitinous shells cracking and sizzling like bacon in a frying pan. The stench of burning carapace filled the air. You wouldnt like what happened to your darling Sonias eggs. Kai scoffed at the absurd usage of names. I hope I find something more than a disturbing lack of common sense in this journal by whoever the Mage researcher is. He gave a final sigh at the burning eggs and quickly carried himself out from the same way he walked in. *** Exhaustion hung heavy in the air as Kai emerged from the tunnels, his steps slow and measured. An acrid tang of burnt chitin clung to his clothes and the memories of the battle clouded his mind for a brief second. He had almost given up on defeating the queen for a while, but thankfully, he had managed. Way better than the last time with the necromancer at least. He looked at the settlement that bustled with activity: guards who were less wounded, their faces drawn with fatigue, tended to the wounded, the green-tinged potions working their magic as expected. "Killian," Kai said, his voice hoarse. Give me a report on the deceased guards And everything else Killian cleared his throat. "Yes, Lord Arzan. We lost eight good men," he began, his voice heavy. "A mix of Enforcers and mercenaries are injured. But they should be okay with proper tending once were back," He paused, then continued, "The life potions you provided were invaluable. They stabilized the worst of the injuries quickly, stopping them from getting worse even if they didn''t heal them straight away." Kai nodded slightly. The weight of eight deaths hung on his shoulders for some reason. "How many are left fit for duty?" S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Thirty-two," Killian replied promptly. "All Enforcers and the core of the mercenary group." "Good," Kai said, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. "They''ll need to carry the ones who can''t walk back to the city." He looked around at the weary faces, then back at Killian. "Prepare a feast for them tonight, in the city. Let them celebrate their victory. Announce them as heroes, but hold off on any official pronouncements until after the funeral processions." "Of course, Lord Arzan. Killian nodded curtly. Kais eyes then moved towards the men and Raven huddled in different places. The mercenaries were talking in hushed tones. Mostly, Finn was explaining something that happened inside with his arms in the air, making gestures to tell the events. Gorak noticed Kais eyes on them and nodded. It was a brief, respectful nod. Kai returned it without a pause. He was about to talk to Killian to start packing things to head back to the castle when his eyes landed on Actra. His shoulders slumped, but feet hasty, he walked away, moving towards his horse, wanting to get out of the settlement now that the battle was over. Kai let his frown linger for a few more minutes, seeing him completely disappear out of sight. All good, Lord Arzan? Killians voice took him out of his thoughts. Kai nodded. Lets head back. Pack everything. *** Two days bled into one another as he handled the aftermath of the battle. After the funerals, a feast was prepared and although everyone enjoyed it, Kai knew that losing people in the mines and the faces of the larvae would haunt the guards for a while, as was the case after every battle. Fortunately, it would fade and in a week or two, things would be completely back to normal just as before. Retrieval teams were sent the very next day and they hauled away the bloated corpses of fallen larvae, their chitinous shells still glistening an unnatural green as they carried them back. Francis planned to sell them with Malden''s distribution network. The merchant knew someone who had connections with the Alchemist guild in the capital. After rounds of negotiations, the price of 300-500 gold coins per corpse was decided, depending on how good of a condition it was. As there were 45 of these corpses, they were going to make a hefty profit. Though he had sold the corpses of common larvae, Kai had decided to hold off on the queen''s corpse. Malden had been desperate, offering 5000 gold coins for it, but Kai had refused. The greedy merchant had looked like he was even ready to take on debts for the corpse since it was so rare to come by and a few Mages and Alchemists would pay their entire savings on it. But Kai restrained and put up a firm rejection. He wanted to keep its outer shell and carapace as materials and its heart was something that would be perfect to build up as a golem core. Francis, apart from handling business with Malden, set himself up to get the mines working back again now that they owned it entirely. They weren''t going to open up the nest area of the mine right away as they needed to clean it and do more inspections, but they could still mine out the iron. Two days went by like that for Kai as he handled that with Francis, but on the third day, he walked towards a part of the estate he rarely visited. Dust motes danced in the pale light that filtered through a grimy window as he reached a heavy oak door. A lone guard stood before it. He seemed nervous, fidgeting his fingers and shifting from one foot to another. Kai could understand his position by his appearance a young recruit, wide-eyed and fresh out of training. The guard flinched as Kai stood there, not expecting to see him. I need to go inside. Step aside, he said and the guard quickly got out of the way, not even daring to mutter a word. He wondered why the guard was so scared, but he didn''t care enough to ask and knocked on the door. There was no response. He knocked again and it was the same. A tense silence hung in the air, broken only by the ragged breaths of the young guard. When a few seconds passed by, Kai sighed and pushed the door open. The room beyond was a stark contrast to the rest of the estate. Sparsely furnished, it held a desk piled high with dusty tomes and scrolls. On the side, tons of plants were flowers stood right in front of a window through which sunlight rained over them. Actra sat hunched over a desk, his face pale and drawn with a book in front. He looked up as the door creaked open, his eyes widening in surprise as they met Kai''s gaze. The book clattered to the floor, its contents spilling out. He didnt bother to bend down to collect it. Kai offered a weary smile. "Actra," he said, his voice gentle and calm. "Can we talk?" - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 53. Elephant in the room Actra closed the book after picking it up on the floor and all this while his eyes were on Kai. His hands moved with muscle memory, as he slid the book to the side. Please, do come in, he said, in a flat voice. He gestured vaguely towards a worn leather chair across from his desk. Kai stepped deep into the room. Aged paper and an unusual odour filled his nostrils. It was the same scent he sensed whenever Actra was around. His eyes didnt leave the Mage as he took the seat. He let them drift casually towards the scattered scrolls and books, then at the cup of tea on the desk that had just been finished. Smiling, he raised them and looked at the Mage. Im sorry to bother you, he said, trying to keep his voice fairly neutral. Were you in between your research? I was. As you know, you aren''t a proper Mage if you find things easily when you are researching spells. Well, now that I think about it, you wouldn''t know that saying since you haven''t gone through formal training as a Mage, he replied, not hiding the displeasure in his voice. Is that the reason you are here? Wanting formal training from me No. Kai shook his head. Actra cleared his throat, coughing in the end due to his abrupt refusal. He straightened in his chair, Then, I imagine you''re here about the unfortunate casualties we suffered during the end of the expedition," he said, staring at him, trying to find something. No, that''s not it either. Sar?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai almost felt like he saw Actra frowning for a second before his expression turned normal. I expected you to come to meet me and apologise for the behaviour of your knight and your words afterwards, but it seemed like you had forgotten respect after somehow stumbling upon your inheritance. It was the second time Actra had talked about it, but it seemed like he had connected his awakening as a Mage and spells to his family''s inheritance. It didn''t make sense to Kai since Arzan had clearly lost the seat of Duke to his brother. Why would he get the inheritance? Ignoring the questions, he frowned. I haven''t forgotten respect. I only learned who to give it to. Actra''s face fell as he spoke. Since the man had brought it out, he might as well give it to him. Im very aware of the fact that you seem to not care about the lives of brave men who sacrificed everything for our safety. And that is something I cant teach you, nor do I want to. It makes my blood boil. But much to my displeasure, I dont have any jurisdiction to punish you for that. Kai paused. He waited until the Mage absorbed his carefully threaded words. "However," Kai continued a hint of amusement creeping into his voice. I had a few questions. I wanted the answers from you. Do ask, Arzan. Youve all the rights to do so. How about we start from the time you started to serve me? A snort escaped Actras mouth as he shook his head. Im not serving you. Im not bound to. My service is loyal to your father for the time being, who put you out here. Respectfully, to answer your question, I dont even serve him as it''s a temporary service. Im still a Mage of the Archine Tower. Kai nodded. His mind shifted to one thing he said. The Archine Tower. He had read about it, but he refused to show anything his neutral face that he always presented to Actra apart from times he angered him to the core on display. If thats the case, Kais voice was gentle, slow and thoughtful, under whose orders did you try to kill me with a silly ritual? Was it my father or the Archine Tower? Actra''s gaze sharpened. This was it. The conversation they had both been dancing around for the longest time, the elephant in the dusty, book-filled room. "My loyalty has never been in question, Lord Arzan," Actra said, something unusual shimmering in his voice. "The ritual was necessary." He stressed the word, probably hoping it would ring true. It was necessary for you to awaken as a Mage. Isn''t that what we both wanted?" Kai''s gaze held a steely glint. "Do you truly believe that, Actra? Or are you simply clinging to that narrative?" Actra faltered at the accusations. Why wont I? You asked for it yourself; you wanted that ritual to escape your mortal shell, finally getting a chance to become a Mage. "Why won''t you tell me the truth? We both know the ritual wasn''t for that," Kai pressed, his voice low and intense. "Are you not curious how I actually became a Mage? Or are you content to keep living this ruse? I thought you would be curious to know how I lived through your trap." Actra looked like a cornered animal, his gaze darting around the room before landing back on Kai. The question hung heavy in the air. He knew he was playing with fire when it came to confronting Actra, but he didnt want to delay it anymore. He had already gotten glimpses of his powers back in the cave and although he might have a few tricks he didn''t know of, Kai had no qualms about dealing with him. Even if the fire burned, he was going to extinguish it today. Finally, after a few seconds, Actra swallowed hard, a desperate glint flickering in his eyes. "I did it for you, Arzan," he croaked, his voice barely a whisper. "For your own good. The ritual it unlocked your potential. You might think otherwise, but you were only able to be a Mage because of me being loyal to you." Kai leaned back in his chair, a hint of a no-nonsense smile playing on his lips. "Loyalty, is it? That''s a curious way to describe telling me to stab myself in the guise of a ritual for a measly ten thousand gold." Actra flinched at the mention of the sum. "It was a rare ritual," he said defensively. Blood and soul rituals are like that. They need a little sacrifice. You see, it produced results!" Kai sighed a weary sound that echoed in the dusty room. He felt like a man navigating a minefield, each step fraught with the potential for detonation. "Indeed," he said, his voice low. "And I imagine it took considerable effort to acquire such a potent ritual." Actra straightened slightly. "Yes, It wasn''t easy." "Easy enough to plot with the Tradeheart Merchant Company to saddle me with debt, I presume probably me losing my territory in the end, was the goal?" Kai asked, his voice devoid of emotion. Actra''s bravado sputtered. "That''s a bold claim, Lord Arzan," he stammered, a nervous twitch developing at the corner of his eye. Kai didn''t reply. Instead, he reached under his robe and placed a stack of papers in front of Actra. He frowned, not knowing what they were. Kai pushed it forward so that Actra could take a proper glance at them and soon he saw how Actras gaze flickered between the pages and Kai. They were the records of his communication with the Tradeheart company. He was sure most of them had been destroyed, but their main agreement was intact where Actra had been given more than a few rare resources in exchange for making sure that Kai gets in the position of needing a lot of money. It wasn''t a bad plan. Actra uses Arzan''s desire to become a Mage to sell him a rare ritual which would kill him. At the same time, contacting Tradeheart who had been eyeing the farmlands and getting resources from them in exchange for creating an opportunity for them to saddle him with debt. He had even gotten away with the gold coins Arzan had used to get the ritual from him. It was a win-win situation. Kai hadn''t found any agreement in the Tradeheart office, meaning they had destroyed it. Fortunately, Actra hadn''t bothered to, probably never thinking about a possibility where his plot would be revealed. A rookie mistake. Also, there were also letters exchanged with the Archine Tower, and the notes where it was mentioned that they were keeping a close eye on him another thing for him to be concerned about. For a moment, silence reigned supreme, broken only by Actra''s ragged breaths. He stared at the documents, his face a mask of conflicting emotions shock, anger, and a simmering fear. "How how did you get these?" he finally croaked, his voice hoarse with disbelief. Kai''s reply was a chilling smile. "A simple perusal of your belongings while you were away. You do remember I''m the lord of the place and my reputation among the maids who clean the rooms is pretty good these days. A simple order is what it took." Realization dawned on Actra, his features contorting in fury. You went through the wards I made!" he roared, his voice laced with a desperate edge. They were easy enough to dispel," Kai said nonchalantly. The box containing the documents he had been given by the maid was warded, but an hour of deconstructing the spells was enough to open them. Actra lunged forward, a torrent of accusations spilling from his lips. "Who are you? Arzan could never learn to dispel my wards in a million years. You are an impostor?!" Kai met his gaze unflinchingly. "Who I am is irrelevant," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "But what is relevant is that you''ll answer for your crimes." A flicker sparked in Actra''s eyes as he raised his head, trying to build up a spell structure. Mana surged around him, but suddenly his eyes narrowed. He lowered his raised hand. You What did you do to me?! Nothing. Why can''t I call up my mana? He screamed, his eyes boring daggers at Kai. I really wondered how you survived being a Mage for so long. You shouldn''t just drink anything. Though, I guess your senses aren''t strong enough to sense Mana Bane, he said, his eyes moving towards the cup of tea. Well, it was a very small portion of it and simply meant to render you useless. Your veins would be blocked for a few hours, but it would return to normal soon enough. By then, you would be in the cells. Actra smashed his hand onto the teacup as Kai finished his explanation. For a second, it felt like he was going to overturn the desk as various emotions flashed through his eyes. But out of nowhere, he pulled out a small vial with a few drops of black liquid inside. Without wasting a single second, Actra drank it up and threw the vial on the floor. What''s that? An antidote? It would take a while to Kai stopped mid-sentence as he noticed something strange. A vicious smile suddenly appeared on Actra''s face as his body started to warp. A strange surge of mana erupted out of him and he clearly felt it. It was extremely different from the usual mana Actra used and was a bit murkier. It was also familiar to Kai. Dead mana His eyes widened as black spots appeared on Actra''s arms and his eyes turned red, the vicious smile stretching more and more. I told you before Arzan. You should have respected me more before. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 54. Fiend Gone was the unassuming Mage, replaced by a horrifying monstrosity. Kai''s blood ran cold as leathery wings erupted from Actra''s back, a sickening blend of membranous flesh and chitinous spikes. Razor-sharp claws replaced his fingernails, and his eyes glowed a malevolent red, the crimson hue reflecting a chilling awareness. Panic threatened to consume Kai, everything he thought he knew about Actra shattered in an instant. This wasn''t a desperate Mage lashing out, this looked like a predator, a terrifying fusion of weaver and bloodsucker. A rough snarl ripped from Actra''s throat sounding oddly like a mana fiend''s voice. The air crackled with mana, the effects of Mana Bane extinguished by the raw power that seemed to course through Actra. Spiked stones materialized from the very air, propelled by a surge of magic, hurtling towards Kai. He sidestepped them with inhuman agility, the projectiles shattering against the wall with a deafening crash. With a swift movement, Actra lept at Kai, their bodies colliding in a burst of raw power. In the heat of the moment, Kai looked at Actras rageful eyes as they beamed with something else something he had never seen before. The impact sent them crashing through the dusty window, their fight spilling out onto the estate grounds. They were suddenly hurtling through the air. Actra twisted in mid-air, his monstrous form aiming to slam Kai into the unforgiving earth. With a desperate surge of adrenaline, Kai reacted on instinct. He twisted away from the impending impact, his hand snapping forward as he channelled his mana. A blazing bolt of fire erupted from his palm, aimed directly at the leathery wings. The sound felt like the air splitting as the fire met flesh. The impact threw both of them off course, their intertwined bodies crashing towards the training grounds below in a tangled mess of limbs and fury. A few people scrambled with shrieks, terrified of the monsters appearance. Kai looked up to see Francis walking towards the ground with a few people following behind. They seemed to have seen the monster flying around and looked shell shocked. Actra, a monstrous parody of his former self, shrieked in fury, its wings caught in fire. Kai, barely registering the guards scattering in terror, scrambled to his feet. Out of nowhere, Killian appeared at his side, his eyebrows furrowed. Kai looked down at his body immediately, seeing the bruises and cuts where Actra had grabbed him with his claws. He got to his feet, though a sharp pain through his knee nearly made him fall again. "What''s happening?" Killian asked, holding up his sword. His loud voice echoed through the grounds that were suddenly in complete silence. "No time to explain!" Kai roared, hurling a searing bolt of fire towards the monster. Actra, wings beating furiously, twisted in mid-air, the flames licking harmlessly against the rapidly growing scales that now covered his forearms. He launched himself at Kai with a guttural snarl, a horrifying blend of a bloodsucker''s rasp and a fiend''s hungry roar. Dark vines, thick and menacing, erupted from the ground like black serpents, coiling towards Kai with unnatural speed. "Actra? Is that Actra?" Killian''s voice cracked with disbelief as he lunged forward, his sword flashing in the sunlight. Steel met writhing vines in a shower of sparks and severed tendrils. But for every vine he cut down, two more seemed to rise. Kai, caught in a whirlwind of thrashing vines and snapping jaws, desperately launched another volley of fire. The flames momentarily singed the leathery wings, but the monstrous hybrid pressed its attack. With a powerful kick, Actra sent Kai rocketing towards the makeshift weapon stand on the ground. Kai slammed into it with a grunt, the air momentarily knocked from his lungs. He scrambled to his feet, a throbbing pain radiating from his hip where he saw a dagger plunged. Taking it out, he frowned and looked around. Spotting a discarded spear lying nearby, he snatched it up, its smooth surface slick. Actra, a monstrous whirlwind of fury, swooped down before him. Claws raked at the air, inches from Kai''s face, the stench of decay and blood washing over him. Kai ducked it and jabbed the spear forward, hoping to land a lucky strike, but Actra twisted with unnatural agility, the tip of the spear whistling harmlessly past. This wasn''t the Actra he knew or had seen firsthand. This monstrosity was a blur of fangs and claws, screaming a terrifying power. Kai gritted his teeth. Actra''s mana surged, the telltale signs of a 4th circle Mage radiating from the creature. Actra was previously just a 3rd circle mage, but now, it was hard to tell if he would be able to stand against him for long. Focusing, Kai formed a spell structure of a second circle spell [Wind Blade] and unleashed it at Actra who hacked down at him with his claws. The blade of wind hit its sides, but the monster''s smile simply grew as if he was relishing the pain. Kai quickly rolled on the ground to dodge the attack and just then, Killian rushed from behind, his sword flashing under the sun in a desperate attempt to flank the creature. But even with their combined efforts, they were barely holding their own. A swipe of Actra''s claws left a bloody gash on Kai''s arm as he barely sidestepped the attack. The pain shot through his entire being, his feet turning cold for a second. Killian, attempting a daring manoeuvre, managed to land a glancing blow on Actra''s shoulder. The creature shrieked in fury, the sound laced with a hint of surprise. But the injury was superficial, quickly eclipsed by a surge of dark energy. Chunks of earth suddenly erupted out of the ground, turning into sharp stones and rained down on Killian. He reacted with impressive reflexes, deflecting some with his blades, but one caught him squarely on the chest, sending him sprawling to the ground. A cruel smile, a grotesque mockery of Actra''s former features, twisted the monstrosity''s face as he turned towards Kai. "This will be a spectacle for the ages," he boomed, his voice echoing across the ground. "The hero of the territory who''s slowly rising up in the eyes of his people slain right in front of their eyes. Won''t that be such a spectacle? People shall see, Arzan! People shall see!" Actra lunged, his leathery wings propelling him through the air with inhuman speed. Kai, with a rush of adrenaline in his body formed various spell structures around him. He was bloodied and battered, but as Actra came close, he only saw a coldness in his eyes. Out of the spell structures, razor-sharp blades of air materialized. As Actra descended upon him, Kai lashed out, aiming the wind blades not at the creature itself, but at the thick, leathery wings. The blades trailed through the air as Actra spun to dodge two of them, but the third one struck true, tearing a gaping hole in one wing. Actra shrieked, thrown off course by the sudden rip. Before his body could crash on the ground, Kai aimed bolts of fire at him, but suddenly, Actra let out a loud scream. The dark energy around him condensed as vines came out to block the bolts. Kai pushed more mana to form another spell structure, this time of a 3rd circle spell, but the vines made way for Actra who emerged with rageful, bulging eyes. Immediately, he broke the spell structure, knowing he had no time to complete it and leapt to the side, but Actra grabbed him at an unprecedented speed. Then, he leapt up holding Kai, rising high in the sky as the voices of Francis and others faded with each passing second. You are truly not Arzan. He could have never survived even a minute against me in this state. I would love to dissect everything out of you after I take out a limb or two, Actra crackled with laughter, looking close to a villain from a theatre play. A dead man can''t do that, Kai replied, struggling through his grip, but unable to even budge it. Wind rustled past his neck as Actra flew towards the center of the city. Lets see who will be dead. You are simply a weakling who barely could stand against my noble strength. Noble? That''s a funny way of calling an ugly creature that even your own mother would loath! You! Actra shouted, his face scrunching up in a scowl and for the briefest moment, he paused, probably wondering how he was going to torture him later on. That gave Kai enough time to build up a spell structure in a matter of less than a second. A fire bolt flew out, hitting Actra right below his neck, making him take a wrong turn. Kai seized the opportunity, using the momentum to propel himself upwards and get out of his grip. He landed with a roll on the slanted roof of an inn, the bustling market sprawling below him. All of them had seen the monster flying around with Kai and looked pale, as if they had seen a ghost. Kai ignored them, quickly making a run on the roof. But Actra was upon him in a heartbeat. Claws lashed out, tearing through the clay tiles of the roof. Kai barely dodged, rolling to the other side of the peak. The struggle continued as they attacked and dodged each other at the rooftop. Finally, with a deafening crash, the roof gave way under their combined weight, sending them both plummeting towards the cobblestone street below. Shrieks of terror filled the air as people scattered, desperately fleeing the path of the falling figures. Kai braced himself for impact, but just before they hit the ground. They landed in a heap on the bustling marketplace, sending a wave of frightened onlookers tumbling back. Actra paused for a split second, his crimson eyes boring into Kai. "Why?" he rasped, the question laced with disbelief. "You see the power I wield, the strength coursing through me. Why do you persist? Why not make this easier for both of us?" Kais eyes met with Actra''s gaze unflinchingly. A guttural snarl ripped from his throat, a sound devoid of fear. "I''ve faced worse abominations than you," he growled, his voice raw with exertion. "Creatures that would make you cower in your borrowed power." Actra recoiled, a flicker of shock momentarily extinguishing the crimson glow in his eyes. It was as if he was trying to find any deceit in his words. But it was fleeting. In its place, a renewed surge of rage flared. He rushed in again, swinging a claw at Kai who rolled to the side, mentally thanking Killian for all the training he had put him through or the claw would have ripped apart his heart. In a blink of a second, another claw came for him, but sensing it, Kai hit back with a bolt, momentarily halting it. That gave him enough time to put distance between them, but he knew it was futile. At first, he had assumed the transformation was short since Actra''s body wouldn''t be able to handle so much power for a prolonged period of time, but now, looking at his bloodshot eyes, he knew the old Mage was ready to keep it up until he killed Kai. A part of his being was terrified as Actra opened up his mouth to snarl and rushed at Kai, but it wasn''t the first time he was in a battle. If he had to die, it was never going to be in the hands of someone like Actra. You are going to die at my hands, you insolent brat! Dark energy swivelled around him as he flung, swinging his wings, but Kai kept standing, anger flaring at him as he sensed the scent of foul, dead mana coming at him. He reached deep within himself, knowing the exact spell that was going to get him out of this predicament. In an instant, four spell structures formed in front of him, taking in the form of glyphs. Astrum Laxme Endro Fiend! Every word he took, more pressure dawned upon him until he felt like every part of the body was pierced by sharp rocks, but as he completed the incantation, the glyphs flared to life. Blood leaked out of his nostrils and Kai felt like he was barely managing to stand. Despite that, a smile formed on his lips. The glyphs mixed into one and Actra''s eyes widened as he paused his charge. "How?" he stammered. "How can you wield such power? Your mana" Kai cut him off with a snarl. "I dont have to answer a dead man." With that, white-hot flames flared up to life, engulfing everything around them and heading straight towards Actra. As he felt the power coming from the mystical flames, Actra retreated, fear clear on his face. The flames pressed onwards, leaving a trail of charred ground whenever they went. Actra, for the first time in the fight, was on the defensive, his monstrous facade crumbling under the might of the flames. They struck his body, burning his whole hand as he tried to leapt back, but the more he struggled, the more the flames chased him as if they had the sole goal of burning his entire soul. He only protected himself with vines emerging from the ground, forming a barrier around him, but the flames burned them at a rapid pace. He frowned, looking down at his bloodied left arm. The flames had burned away three of his fingers and the pain was excruciating. If they touched him again, he knew he was dead. Sarch* The N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Driven by desperation, Actra lashed out with a volley of jagged stones, ripped from the very cobblestones beneath their feet. They didn''t move towards the flames, but Kai who was standing right behind them. The projectiles rained down on him, each strike leaving a fresh gash on his already bloodied form. A pained grunt escaped Kai''s lips, but he pressed on. Actra, his crimson eyes gleaming with sadistic glee, threw his head back and let out a chilling laugh. "You see, Arzan? Even with your fancy tricks, your power wanes! You''ll burn yourself out before I''m finished with you!" Kai ignored the taunt, focusing on channelling the remaining mana. The [Fiendfire] spell was a hungry beast, draining his reserves at an alarming rate. With a final surge of will, the white flames flared up, severing the thick vines in a matter of seconds that protected Actra. Knowing his tricks won''t work anymore, Actra flapped his wings, aiming to fly away to protect himself, but Kai couldn''t let it be. The flames chased after him, but Kai knew they would die before reaching him, so he thought of another spell. Maybe the last spell he might be able to do and even then, he would be borrowing strength from his life force. Despite the risk, letting Actra go was the worst thing after all this trouble. So, he channelled mana around his hands as all his energy seeped away into the spell, but he didn''t care. In a heartbeat, he cast [Infernal Chains]. Out of nowhere, dark, flaming chains erupted out of the ground, heading towards Actra who had already reached quite far away, but they bound themselves at his legs, yanking him down as he screamed. He tried to move, swinging his claws at the chains. "You think these pathetic chains can hold me?" he asked, loudly. The voice blended with monstrous noises filled the air. "You can clearly not hold yourself together. Once I''m free, your secrets will be mine! I''ll tear every one from your lips, even if I have to rip your very soul from your body!" Kai ignored the threats and moved forward towards him, one of his hands moving towards one of the inner pockets of his robe. Actra, consumed by his rage, didn''t seem to notice something far more dangerous than fear in Kai''s eyes as he continued to taunt him while trying to get out of the chains. Have you given up? Actras voice came after noticing how silent Kai had gone. Kai smirked. Without the flame, his spells would barely scratch Actra''s body and he didnt have enough mana to keep up with the chains for long. "You''re a fool, Actra," Kai rasped, his voice hoarse. "You have no idea what you''ve just done. Dead mana isn''t a thing to play around even if I have no idea how it managed to transform you to such an extent." His hand came forward, powering up the chains with the last remaining mana so that the fire would burn him up. Actra opened his mouth to let out a monstrous shriek but Kai lunged himself forward. He tipped the vial and poured the shimmering liquid down the hybrids throat. Actra''s eyes widened in horror as the potion coursed through his veins. By the look of his eyes, it was clear that the monster realised what was happening to him. Kai gave a final smile that was too cruel to his liking and ran away from the chains, as far away as he could. He had taken around thirty wide steps when a horrifying sound burst from behind. The force of the explosion made the ground beneath them shake, the shockwave rippling through the marketplace, shattering windows and sending dust flying. Kai, his ears ringing, scrambled to his feet and took cover behind a sturdy stone wall just as the marketplace erupted in chaos. The detonation was deafening as flesh and blood rained on the ground. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 55. Explosion Kai leaned against the stone wall, his ragged breaths blending into his environment. The marketplace was buzzing with the energy of the aftermath of his fight with the hybrid Actra turned to. But his mind wasnt on the destruction of the chaos. It was on a fundamental lesson from his childhood a foundational truth about mana, the lifeblood of magic. Different types of mana, like volatile chemicals, could have a dangerous result when mixed. Actra''s veins were blocked due to the venom in the tea and even if he had managed to dispel the venom, it was still in his body. Despite that, he went ahead and drank the potent potion that made him turn into the monster he was. The mana in the venom and the dead mana from the vial already made him unstable. The final stroke was Kais healing draught he carried with him and never used, hoping for an opportunity like this. It had been the spark for a reaction. The potion''s simmering energy and the dark mana coursing through his veins turned Actra into a bomb. Both of them had clashed together. And then He had turned into nothing. Just a plume of dust settling over a scene of devastation. Relief washed over Kai, a wave so potent it almost eclipsed the throbbing pain radiating from his side. Actra was gone, reduced to a crimson mist scattered on the wind. He looked down at his own blood-stained clothes. He was cut and bruised in different places and almost lost his limbs due to that bastards claws. He sighed, trying his best to ignore the pain that came from different places in his body. Even breathing at the moment was hard. A flicker of movement caught his eye. Killian, his feet hasty was rushing towards him with guards and Enforcers behind him. Even Francis, his usual stoicism replaced by a furrowed brow, was perched awkwardly on the back of a large white draft horse. Beyond them, curious townsfolk peeked from behind shattered windows and doorways, their expressions a mix of fear and morbid curiosity. Kai forced a smile, a grimace that pulled at his already stinging wounds. "Looks like things got a little out of control," he rasped, his voice hoarse. The words felt hollow on his tongue, a poor attempt at levity in the face of the devastation. Killian reached his side, kneeling on the cobblestones. "Lord Arzan, are you alright? He extended his hand and saw Francis rushing forward with a potion. Kai looked around at the ruined marketplace, the injured civilians, and the faces etched with fear and confusion. He knew a simple explanation wouldn''t suffice. He didnt say anything, but grabbed the vial and chugged it down. The cool liquid soothed the raw scrape on his throat. He winced as he felt the potion seeking the ache inside his body. Was that a monster? Was it Actra? Killians questions came next. Kai sighed, the memory of the monster coming back at him like a storm. He nodded at his questions, exhaustion dragging at his eyelids. "Clean up the city," he murmured, his voice barely a whisper. "Help the injured and for now I just want to rest." He closed his eyes, the world fading into a welcome oblivion. *** Twelve hours later, consciousness returned to Kai in slow increments. The throbbing pain in his side had dulled to a manageable ache, replaced by a comforting warmth that spoke of healing draughts at work. His body ached, but it was a familiar ache, the kind that came with pushing himself to the limit and not the agonizing pain of Actras attacks. After he woke up, Francis gave him the whole account of what had happened when he was unconscious. News of the explosion had spread like wildfire through the city. Rumours swirled like smoke, people talking about the monstrous creature terrorising the marketplace before being vanquished by Lord Arzan. Francis had swiftly moved to quell the more outlandish rumours, assuring the public that the threat had been neutralized. They had searched the area where the battle had taken place, but other than blood and body matter, nothing had survived. The first order of business, once Kai was deemed well enough, was a thorough examination of Actra''s room. Kai himself, though still a little weak, participated in the search. They found everything one would expect from a Mage''s quarters shelves laden with spellbooks, a meticulously tended herb garden, and a few artefacts and certificates with the insignia of the Archine Tower attached to them. Actra, it seemed, had been an orphan with no known family ties. At least it seemed to be since there was no proof of him sending anything to anyone. Knowing his personality, Kai wasn''t opposed to the idea that he had simply broken off contact with his family after becoming a Mage or had just forgotten them. Even his communication with the Duke, Kai''s father, amounted to a single introductory letter and a formal confirmation of his role as Kai''s retainer. There were some items of interest a hefty pouch of gold coins, a collection of expensive garments. But it was on the second day, amidst a pile of discarded robes, that Kai found something truly unexpected a card. Tucked into a hidden pocket, it was almost overlooked. He flipped it over. On the front, a simple inscription greeted him: "Thank you for your business." Below it, an image of a skeletal dragon was drawn. The craftsmanship was at a high level, meaning whatever organisation it belonged to, it wasn''t poor. He called for Killian and Francis once the whole room was checked twice and the only thing of interest they found was the card. Entering the meeting room, they looked at him with concern in their eyes, but before they could ask about his health, he cut to the chase. "Have either of you ever seen this?" he asked, holding out the card. Or know where it is from? They examined it in turn, their brows furrowing in confusion. No, I have not," Killian said, shaking his head. Same with me. It seems to be some organisation''s card, but I haven''t seen anything like it before. Francis gave the card back to Kai who leaned against his seat and sighed. It was the only thing worthy of note in Actra''s room. It might be the key to finding out how he turned into that creature, Kai said, giving the card another look. The skeleton dragon stared back at him. Its certainly strange. I thought I had seen a lot when we fought against the necromancer, but I never imagined there would be weavers with wings in the world. And M I mean Actra would be one of them, Killian muttered, looking a bit shaken. He had fought Actra briefly and hadn''t been able to hold on for five minutes against him. It seemed to have hurt his pride since he had been making great progress as an Enforcer. He wasn''t a weaver, Kai corrected him. It was more of a hybrid. If I had to give him a name, he was more like a bloodsucker. They normally have wings and red eyes, but they look way more heinous than he did. Bloodsucker? Francis'' voice echoed in the room. Can they shapeshift into humans? Yes, some can. They can look very convincing even, but Actra wasn''t one. He used some potion to shift into one. It was a temporary transformation, but I don''t know how. It shouldn''t be possible in my opinion, but I guess it is now. We won''t know anything until we investigate further. He felt depressed that he hadn''t managed to salvage the body or part of the potion he had used. He had searched the room, hoping for a sample, but was disappointed. For now, his only clue was the card. Francis, Kai said, forcing himself to focus. Talk to Malden and see if he can get any information on this card. Another thing he had realised lately was that he had very limited ways to access information about the current world. He had been holed up in Veralt and the rest of his territory since he had become Arzan. Even if he had solved a few problems, he hadn''t gotten time to gather together an information network. Till he did that, Malden was his best bet. The merchant was greedy, but he doubted he was the type to not follow his orders, at least until he believed that Kai could lead him to more profits. Yes, Lord Arzan, I will notify Malden about it right away, Francis said, nodding his head. Then, with a hint of hesitation, he spoke up. "Lord Arzan, there''s the matter of Actra''s demise. Since he was affiliated with the Archine Tower, we need to send an official report detailing the incident and the cause of death as per protocol." Kai grimaced. The Archine Tower was a big mystery for him though he had heard about the name and a few things. From his research about them, he knew they were the premier institution for magic in the whole Lancephil Kingdom, situated in the centre of the capital. Alongside being the most powerful organisation in the country, it was also a big political force. Like every Mage in the kingdom, Actra also had ties with them and was only serving his father due to the kingdom policy of a Mage serving one noble for at least two years as a retainer. Actra''s letter with them hinted that they were aware of his awakening as a Mage and someone in the Tower had called for his death. But for what reason? He had no idea. Originally, he suspected that Actra worked for his brother, but that was clearly a wrong line of thinking. Why someone in the Archine Tower is after Arzan? He doesn''t seem to have any secrets. Or am I just wrong? He wondered but got nowhere. Raising his head, he looked at Francis. Do we have to do that? Yes, Lord Arzan. Every Mage is a resource and Archine Tower takes the death of each of them very seriously. I wonder how they would take the death of a Mage who attacked a noble and turned into a monstrous abomination, Kai said and shook his head. Okay, send the report. Let''s see what comes out of it. He forced a smile, but it felt hollow. The reason why someone wanted to kill Arzan, the Archine Tower, the card they were all pieces of a puzzle he didn''t understand. He knew until he solved these mysteries, they were going to bother him at the back of his mind. For now, he could simply wait until the right time came for him to know more about the person whose body he was inhabiting. *** Later that night, after ensuring that everything else was on track, Kai retreated to his room. He settled into a meditative pose, focusing his remaining mana. He could feel it, a tremor at the edge of his perception, the barrier between his current circle and the next. The fight with Actra had taken a lot out of him, but after almost a day of rest, he had recovered. His body''s recovering ability had gotten even better in this era since there was abundant mana for his mana heart to absorb. Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His battle had also made him realise the need to break into the next circle as soon as possible. He had somehow managed to deal with the larvae queen and Actra, but if there was a whole Mage Tower after him, then he would need all the strength he could gather. That''s why, he took in all the mana from his surroundings, focusing on building up the next circle. He knew he was close to progressing. Slowly, the mana circulation in his heart grew in power and got brighter and brighter as he sucked more and more mana, making it his own and trying to grow his reserves. It was working and it was extremely close. Few more circulation and stabilising and he would break through. He felt a surge of power, and... A dull ache throbbed behind his eyes, and Kai reluctantly opened them. He hadn''t broken through. Frustration gnawed at him, but he pushed it away. After the recent events, he was better off focusing on the bright sides. A small smile tugged at the edges of his lips. The barrier was thinner, and with a little more focus, and a little more time, he would surely break through. The speed boost he''d receive would be invaluable, especially considering the unknown threats he now faced. Maybe just a week more. Needing a distraction, Kai turned his attention to the book retrieved from the larvae nest. It was a worn leather-bound tome, filled with spidery handwriting and crude sketches of grotesque creatures. As he delved deeper, he felt his limbs go cold at what he read. My experiments with the larvae resulted in me getting Sonia, but she''s not the one I''m looking for. She''s cute and would be very strong, but what I need is something else. Her ability of mana control would make her a good leader, but she''s still an ordinary monster. With a stone in my heart, I had to get her a new home, like my other babies. So, are there more creatures like the larvae queen? Kai muttered, hoping the man hadn''t put more such creatures in his territory. He flipped a page and kept reading. Aside from the larvae, the spiders, orcs, goblins and similar land creatures have simply died in my experiments. Those who survived, I have grown as my babies, but I''m not getting what I''m looking for. Maybe I should move towards sea creatures? They have their own secrets and the merfolks might be of help. Or I should search for the lost city of the sky? I might be able to find extinct creatures there. Someone, someone who can survive and become the perfect being I''m looking for. Aside from descriptions about monsters, there were also detailed methods of cultivating them as well as the small experiments the man had done with them. But Kai skimmed through those parts. His sole focus was on the main goal of the man which was apparently to build a perfect creature. He had no idea what it entailed. Was it about unparalleled strength or just the most balanced monster? One thing was clear the man he was reading about was crazy. As he read more, his eyes suddenly stopped at a page. Even a wyvern hasn''t survived dead mana. I thought due to their strong cores, a bit of dead mana wouldn''t do anything, but it has started corrupting John. Its screams and painful cries are making me hurt and there''s no way to continue the experiment. Maybe only dragons could survive dead mana, but even I, Hendricks Klandel, the legendary beast tamer only regard them as myths. Where would I even find them? More and more questions erupted in Kai''s mind as he read. Hendricks Klandel? He hadn''t heard of him before and he was a legendary beast tamer. The thing that attracted his attention the most was the part about dead mana. He was experimenting with it, trying to see what creatures could survive the corruption. His fingers trailed through those lines and as he turned the page, they stopped in their tracks. If I didn''t do anything fast, the prophecy would come to be. The world would succumb to dead mana and it would be the rise --- The page was incomplete, torn in half by someone and Kai''s eyes widened as he finished reading it. Prophecy? He muttered, but no one answered him in his room. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 56. Volume 1 Epilogue A damp chill prickled through layers of thick hide, pulling a groan from deep within the cave. The groan echoed through the cave. Numerous eyes, crimson and flecked with gold, cracked open, revealing completely dark pupils that seemed to devour the faint light flickering through the entrance. It scanned the surroundings, taking the familiar stalactites and the dust motes that danced in the stale air. It inhaled subtly, not wanting the dust to crowd its senses, and noticed the mana everywhere. Then, a tremor ran through its massive form. The prickling sensation that wasnt pain but an unfamiliar pull towards West. Grrah! An animalistic noise left its mouth as the sensation resonated in the very core of its being, pushing against years of slumber. A flicker of an image, a flash of fire, and panicked human figures sparked in its mind. The vision of the settlement lingered a bit longer. The red eye narrowed. More and more visions passed through its mind and something in its head prompted him to move towards the west, to the settlement. It was a command worthy of its stature and its calling. A low growl rumbled through the cave, vibrating the very stones. Shadows stirred in the depths, responding with guttural rasps. They were smaller versions of the behemoth, scaled creatures with razor-sharp teeth and eyes that glowed like polished obsidian. They were its children, the ones it had birthed to spread the message of its rule. The massive head lowered, its voice reaching every little one as they looked at him with a deep hunger imitating the behemoths. "The slumber has been long," it rumbled. "But the gnawing hunger for dominance, it never fades. If anything, I feel more hungry! More powerful than before, ready to devour everything. A new power calls for us to rise and take our rightful place. The smaller creatures stirred, a collective snarl erupting from their throats. They understood. They craved the taste of fear, the power that came from absolute terror. A cruel smile, if a creature like this could be said to smile, stretched across the towering face. "Go then," it boomed. "Prepare the world for our arrival. Let them know the name of true terror again. Especially the humans." A wave of excitement rippled through the chamber. Snarls turned into excited yips, clawed feet drumming against the stone floor. The smaller beasts surged towards the cavern entrance, a black tide of hungry anticipation. The massive creature watched them go, its own muscles twitching with a long-dormant yearning. It stood straight in the cavern, the head reaching the ceiling. Its hands extended, and a low rumble erupted from its heart. Muscles spasmed when they tried to stretch, but after moving a little, it felt better than before. A bit long and it was going to rule this part of the forest again and now, its rule would stretch to the human land. The voice inside its head told him so. *** In the dimly lit chamber atop the Archine Tower, a circle of robed figures huddled around a large pine table. The only light emanated from a single orb suspended in the centre, painting shadows behind the wall. An air of hushed tension permeated the room, punctuated only by the rhythmic tapping of a single long fingernail against the polished surface of the table. "Are you certain of this, Eldren?" rasped a voice, the speaker obscured by a voluminous hood. "Dead? Mage Actra, dead?" Eldren, a gaunt figure whose skeletal frame seemed barely contained by his robes, cleared his throat. "The report is clear, Magus Veridia. Actra perished in a skirmish with Arzan. Apparently, he transformed and attacked the Baron." A ripple of incredulous snorts echoed around the table. No one could believe the report that was given to them. "Transformed?" scoffed another figure, tilting their head back to reveal a sliver of a sharp chin. "Into what, a particularly large toadstool? Don''t insult our intelligence, Eldren." Into a monster. Eldrens voice came stern. A winged one with claws. According to the report sent to us, the scent of dead mana was coming from him. Even though he couldnt process what he had read, the fact that none of them believed it, made it rather frustrating. A murmur of arguments rose. "These reports about Arzan," another voice chimed in, "speak of barely scraping the second circle. Hes a new mage. Actra, while far from brilliant, could at least manage a decent fireball. This tale is as absurd as it is insulting." Eldren, unfazed by their derision, laid out the details gleaned from the report. Each mention of Arzan''s supposed prowess elicited another round of scoffs and dismissive chuckles. Moreover, none of them even gave heed to the fact that Actra had transformed into a monster. "Second circle besting a veteran like Actra? I have heard better jokes from my grandson. It reeks of some elaborate fabrication," one mage declared, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Perhaps young Arzan has a talent for weaving fantastical stories." That could be a type of genius that Arzan could wield. Huh. The room dissolved into a cacophony of disbelieving pronouncements. When the report of Actra''s death had come up, they had dug up every report on Arzan. None of them had been particularly good as Actra considered him weak and foolish and after his awakening, things were simply more mysterious around him. All these reports from Actra In a sense, the final report can be true. It makes sense if Arzan had been developing his circles but the question is, how exactly did he do that? I cant think of a way. Actras mentions were mostly about his improvements, though the awakening is questionable as well, another mage said while scratching his thin beard. Eldren shook his head. As questionable as it is, Actras reports are proof that he did. Our focus should be rather on the deceased mage, not on the awakened fresher, he said in a whisper. A sudden sharp crack echoed in the stillness, silencing the room. Magus Veridia slammed a bony fist onto the table, his black eyes looking "Silence!" she commanded, her voice surprisingly powerful for such a frail figure. Things are strange. Still, a Mage of the Archine Tower had died. And one on its service to a noble house. We need to look into everything thoroughly. The part about Actra turning into a monster is blasphemy against our Tower and if they can''t prove it, I''m going to personally demolish this young lord''s territory, no matter what circle Mage he is. She leaned forward, her eyes glinting from beneath the shadows of her hood. First of all, if we are all so curious about the truth of the report," she continued, her voice taking on a dangerous edge. "Why not summon this Arzan ourselves? Have him answer for himself. An interrogation at the Archine Tower seems fitting, wouldn''t you agree?" A tense silence followed. The Mages exchanged uneasy glances. The death of a fellow Mage was a serious matter, even if they doubted the specifics of this report. That seems suitable, yes, Eldrens voice came true while he glanced at everyone, earning nods and hums. Like this, it was decided to send a summon to Arzan. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 57 – Francis Side chapter A/N; This chapter comes after the Tradeheart arc. - A sigh escaped Franciss lips as the only thing that filled the quiet room was the scratch of quill on parchment rhythmically. He ran a hand through his thinning hair, a familiar ache settling in his lower back a constant reminder of long hours hunched over ledgers and decrees. The cigar was placed between his index finger and middle finger as his tired eyes scanned the papers. He was signing over a few documents, but his mind was on things that had taken place over a week back. Taking a break, he closed his eyes and thought back to things that would often flash in his mind. His childhood. He had started working at a young age. From his early days as a lowly clerk, he was diligently copying figures under the watchful gaze of his predecessor, to the gradual ascent that saw him lauded for his keen organizational skills. The memory of his initial ambition brought a bittersweet pang. Back then, the mantle of administrator had felt like a beacon of hope. He, Francis, a commoner born to constantly travelling merchant parents, had witnessed firsthand the toll of an inept lord on the lives of his people. So many territories he visited had people suffering simply because the lord didn''t care and when he had gotten a sense of what profession to move towards, Francis had come to Veralt. It was a peaceful territory back then that could be improved even more. After taking an exam for the then-administrator, he became an apprentice. He''d dreamed of wielding the authority to carve out a better life for the territory, a haven far removed from the hardships he had seen in his childhood. For a while, it worked. Fields yielded bountiful harvests, trade flourished, and a sense of tentative stability settled over the land. But then, the storm clouds arrived. The Lord''s son, his heir and confidant, was struck down by an arrow while chasing after a barbarian tribe in the army. The son died, leaving an empty shallow space in the estate itself. Soon after that, the lord''s wife passed away from an unknown illness. Having no other children, her son''s death was too much to take for her. The Lord himself, aged and grieving, retreated into a shell of his former self, his once-sharp mind clouded by sorrow. Like dominoes toppling, the problems began stacking up. A harsh winter decimated the crops, leaving the people with dwindling reserves. Bandit raids grew bolder, preying on weakened villages. The Lord, lost in his grief, refused to acknowledge the escalating crisis, opting instead for a fatalistic wait for his demise. Their pleas for assistance were met with a deafening silence. The ongoing Duke''s succession had thrown the entire region into political turmoil. Urgent messages dispatched to the Duke''s house vanished, each unanswered letter a fresh wound upon their already beleaguered spirits. The inevitable arrived finally. The Lord succumbed to a heart attack, leaving a power vacuum in his wake. The territory, once a beacon of hope, now resembled a rudderless ship, tossed about in a sea of uncertainty. Francis sighed again, recalling the time it all happened. He brought the cigar to his lips and let out a puff of smoke. Then came the news. Arzan, the Duke''s son was appointed the new Baron. Relief, laced with a sliver of trepidation, bloomed in Francis'' chest. Surely, a son of the Duke would possess the resources and resolve to pull them from the brink. But six months had crawled by, each day a monotonous echo of the last. Arzan, cloaked in an enigmatic aloofness, remained a distant figure. The problems, far from abating, seemed to fester. Disappointment, a bitter pill, lodged itself in Francis'' throat. Was this all they could expect from a Duke''s son? Despair gnawed at him. Six months under the new Baron Arzan, the territory''s situation only worsened. The coffers bled dry, a consequence of Arzan''s enigmatic spending sprees. Requests for clarification were met with a steely silence, the quite opposite of the openness Francis had craved. As things kept moving towards destruction, Francis wondered if things were ever going to change. And one day, it all changed. The weavers incident still painted a shocking picture in his mind. To be true to himself, he had given up on a lot of things. But that glimmer of hope it ignited when Arzan took care of the weaver himself. A new person thats what he would call Arzan after that day, at least in his mind. Something about him changed and even if it was subtle, Francis instinctively knew he was different now. Someone reliable, someone competent and he proved it with each passing day. Especially when the Tradeheart Merchant company threatened the farmlands. In his old ways, Francis''s only focus had been to find a way so that they could pay the debtors back, and hold them on for some more time. But then, Arzan he brought up one matter Francis didnt even think was possible. The laws. Francis still remembered how he almost slapped his forehead in guilt. Part of him despised him for being careless, but the other part understood the situation. Soon after, Arzan took it upon himself to collect the money to pay back. Francis knew Arzans plans to collect the debt would work meticulously, especially when he saw Heat stones an invention of Arzan himself that was going to solve a lot of their problems. After years, good things were happening in the territory, but it wasnt enough. That one part that had started looking down on him craved something more. He needed to prove that he was a good administrator to a lord who suddenly had a spark to move forward without a glance back. So, before Arzan left for the forest to deal with what he called mana fiends, Francis had one request, which was to let him handle the Tradeheart Merchant company. Even if the debt was being handled, he had suspicions about the merchant organisation, but he had never been able to investigate, simply because their hands were tied with the debt. Now, it was different. Kai gave a brief nod that day, saying, I trust you enough to handle it by yourself. The words meant more when he started to get to work. He focused on going through the kingdoms law, to find any report that would prove Tradehearts wrongdoings. He remembered how his eyes stayed glued to the parchments, analysing every piece of information. Fortunately, there were a lot. The more he looked, the stranger things seemed It had been over three years since Tradeheart had gotten a branch in Veralt and since then, the bandits'' attacks increased. The thing that stood out was the fact that the attacks were mostly on merchants who were in direct competition with Tradeheart. Especially, timber merchants who kept going out of business because of bandits targeting their carriages. At the same time, Tradeheart grew its business, effectively gaining a monopoly. For an entire month, Francis talked to merchants whose businesses had been flagged by bandits. Some cried, saying no matter how many guards and mercenaries they hired, the bandits would know their every move and steal their goods. Others have already fled the city, wanting to not do any more business with Tradeheart having the bigger hand. Unfortunately, he wasn''t able to catch any bandits, but whatever he heard was enough for him to take his next move. The door to his office creaked open as a short man walked in, looking fearful as Francis gestured for him to sit down. His shoulders slumped as the man looked at him. Hemlock, Francis had called. You have been working for Tradeheart for two years now, right? The man looked up, his eyes red-rimmed and weary. Yes, sir. It''s been a while. Can I know why you called me here? You even took my wife and mother with you. Is that necessary? It is. And dont worry, they are safe. I won''t touch you until you answer my questions. Hemlock''s eyes widened. Francis knew the man was smart and could get the undertone in his voice. By the way, he grabbed his knees, he was too nervous to not play along with the situation. What type of questions? The one about the entity you work for, Francis said, leaning forward. You do know the lord particularly doesn''t like Tradeheart right? I-I do, but I thought it was just a debt It''s more than that. Do you think I would call you here simply because of an insignificant debt? Then? "We''re conducting an investigation," Francis stated, his voice firm. "Discrepancies in your company''s activities have been flagged. Moreover, there''s a lot of evidence that your bosses had a hand in destroying a lot of businesses in the city for a monopoly. If you are not well versed in the laws, let me tell you. That''s a serious crime." Hemlock''s face paled. "Discrepancies? I-I don''t know what you mean," he stammered. "Don''t play coy," Francis leaned forward, his voice hardening. You are a high-level employee who should have access to their documents. You very well know what''s going on and there''s enough merchants who would speak against Tradeheart if the lord is in their favour." Hemlock swallowed hard, his gaze darting around the room. "I I can''t say anything. It''s my job." "Your job?" Francis scoffed. "Or your family''s safety? Think about it. Are the Tradeheart scraps worth risking everything for? We can offer you protection, a chance to wipe the slate clean." A flicker of desperation flickered in the man''s eyes. He glanced at the door, then back at Francis. His lips trembled for a moment before forming a shaky whisper. "What kind of protection?" Francis smiled. "The kind that comes with the truth. Now, tell me everything and I will make sure you don''t have to rot in a cell as your wife is sold to a brothel." The deal was secured with Hemlock providing evidence along with many others. It seemed like a peek into Francis'' ruthless side was enough for the meek man to help them out. Weeks led into months. The days were a relentless tide of paperwork, interviews, and late-night strategy sessions. Along the way, Arzans expenditure to find the necromancer was brutal. They lost a few guards but managed to cease the threat. The next few weeks went by with Killian training what they called the Enforcers. Although Francis had yet to see their prowess, he knew Killian seemed much stronger after turning into one. According to Arzan, he would see their powers against Erasmus Thorne, the head of Tradeheart in Veralt. The conversation a day before the raid on the Tradeheart office was still fresh in Francis'' mind. Arzans eyes scanned the pages of evidence Francis collected. Along with the parchments, there were written testimonies of merchants and Hemlock, alongside a few more people. I didn''t get everything, my Lord," Francis concluded, "but it''s enough to raise eyebrows. Enough to get Erasmus scrambling, Francis said in a whisper with papers thrown on top of the table. Arzan gave a genuine smile. This is more than what I could ask to bring those bastards down. Good job, Francis, he said while his eyes went back to the papers. A hint of pride beamed in his heart as he felt like he finally did something for the estate after so long. The very next day, Erasmus was out of his high fort, beaten into a pulp by Arzan. The attack was swift and decisive. City guards, bolstered by Arzan''s newly acquired Enforcers, descended upon the Tradeheart Merchant company building. Not one person in the Tradeheart office was able to stand against them and before they knew it, they were arresting Erasmus and all the employees who had been a part of his illegal activities. News of the raid spread like wildfire in a couple of hours. Francis felt a surge of vindication. It hadn''t been easy, but they did it. He had done it. With the debt finally disappearing from the looming state, he could finally focus on what he did best rebuilding the territory, one sound decision at a time. Opening his eyes away from the memories, he took a puff of a cigar, smiling and finally felt like he had things to look forward to. With renewed vigour, he returned to work, the dull ache in his back disappearing. Sarch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 58. Start again (Volume 2 begins) Kai of the Sorcerer''s Tower sat on the floor, his legs crossed in front of his bed. His eyes were closed as he focused on his circles. All his senses were drawn away from the external environment due to how focused he got in his meditation every passing second. As he circled his mana around in his Mana Heart, he got closer to a particular feeling. The feeling somehow had become both familiar and frustrating. Mostly the latter because he had been trying for a long time now. sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He sighed and inhaled, taking in a large amount of mana. He swirled them and with each complete circle, the speed increased. A month. For a whole month, he''d been stuck at the cusp of the second circle, the bottleneck frustrating him more with each passing day. Today, though, something felt different. His Mana Heart felt unusual and he could feel the changes happening in it. The mana from the air felt chaotic, but as soon as he took hold of it, it responded to his will with coherence. He pushed, channelling his focus, visualizing the swirling energy coalescing, solidifying. Sweat beaded on his forehead and his face strained. The pressure kept building up as he circled more and more mana, trying to build up his third circle. In the last month, he had tried several times and in a lot of them, he had managed to build his next circle, expanding his reserves, but as soon as he would let go, the circle would break, dissolving like it was never there. He hoped it would be different this time. He felt a sudden dissonance in his Mana Heart as his mana tried to build up his next circle, a force giving him a lot of mental pressure, but he kept at it. Minutes turned into hours, but he didn''t give up. His Mana took on the form of his next circle, in the middle of the two he had made before. Then, a click resounded. Not an audible click, but a feeling, a shift in the very core of his being. The Mana Heart, once a churning vortex, settled, a vibrant sphere pulsing with controlled power. Slowly, he let go, but the third circle didn''t disperse. It settled there, pulsing with mana and giving him far more energy than he had expected. A wide grin split Kai''s face. The third circle, breached! The rush he felt was something he hadn''t sensed in quite a long time. It was like his whole being steamed with newfound power and every breath he took filled him with a refreshing feeling. He flickered his wrist with ease, a flame appearing on his fingertip. It seemed to be much stronger than before, giving a bright glow. He killed the flame down after a few seconds and did a refreshing spell to get rid of the exhaustion. He pushed himself up, feeling the energy bursting in his muscles. Stretching his body, he glanced out the window. Morning light bathed the view in a golden glow and as he breathed in the mana-rich environment, flashbacks came to his mind. It felt like only a moment ago he''d been battling with the mana fiend, then the next second, being awakened in a different body with an inability to feel the rush of mana it was horrifying, to say the least. After having spent all his life battling mana fiends, he had never expected to regress in time and awaken in the body of a young lord. It had all been strange, but in the last few months, he had gotten used to it. The season of Frosania had passed and the first month of Florana was here. The snow was melting and people were finally feeling more energetic. When he had first become Arzan, he had been powerless, riddled with debt and other responsibilities, but now, his territory was on the path of recovery. Moreover, in just a few months, he had become a third circle mage from a mortal. His stomach grumbled suddenly, pulling him back from his memories. He had been trying to reach the third circle since waking up and he had missed the morning training. Breakfast was already long gone, but it didn''t matter now. He withdrew himself from the window and walked across the room, reaching the door and opening it with a creak. He paused as he saw a familiar face. There, by the doorway, stood Claire, wearing her usual maid uniform, her brow creased with concern. "Good morning, Lord Arzan," she said, her voice a gentle murmur. Kai forced a smile. "Good morning, Claire." Her lips pursed slightly. "Didn''t want to disturb you since I saw you were meditating," she said, searching his face for something. "Breakfast has gone cold, but I could heat it again." While saying that, she gave him a particular look which he knew by now. It was the one she reserved for him whenever he pushed himself too hard, a silent plea for him to prioritise his well-being. In the past month, he had been trying to break the barrier to the third circle and due to it, he had been skipping his meals often. It had worried everyone who knew him closely, particularly Francis, Killian and Claire. Even Amyra had asked about it, but he shrugged off the conversation every time. "Thanks," he said. "Since it''s past breakfast time, I''d skip it for the day. I''m feeling good after a long time and I believe I won''t be skipping meals from now on," he said with a smile. His intestines yearned for food, but the surge of mana he felt was enough for him to not care about it. Claire''s lips pressed into a firm line, but as she heard the last line, she smiled. "That''s good news. I would let the chef know. He had been worried that his food hadn''t been up to your tastes these days," she said. "Are you going to head to the library then?" "Yes, I believe Amyra will be waiting for me. It''s already late." The path to the library was mostly silent. A few whispers among the maids, and passing guards who gave curt nods at Kai he had gotten used to this treatment and didn''t flinch at it like before. Reaching the library, Claire opened the door and they saw Amyra standing at her usual position. Seeing Kai, her arms folded and a scowl etched on her face. It turned to a pout as she stared at him. It had become a part of their routine to build golems together early in the library. It was training for him since he had been progressing into Golemancy, but for Amyra, it had turned into a fun hobby. He approached the table and suddenly, her expression shifted. Her golden eyes widened comically, her pout dissolving into surprise. It seems like she''s able to feel the increase in my mana. Though, she doesn''t seem to have much idea of my exact strength. Kai smiled as he stood beside her. Looking at her brought back memories of the battle against the necromancer. Amyra had been one of his captives and after he saved her, she had been living in the estate as a guest. By building golems together, he had been trying to get close to her, being curious about her origins and although progress was slow, she had grown comfortable with him. "Sorry for keeping you waiting. I got busy," he said, his eyes going over to the table that was filled with lumps of clay. On one side, sculptures they have made over the last month were displayed. "It''s okay. We can start now that you are here." Amyra didn''t ask anything more about the surge of mana around him and although it disappointed him, he focused on the clay. As he got on with their practice, Claire mixed in the background without making any noise. The damp clay felt cool and flexible beneath Kai''s fingers. Months of practice had transformed his initial clumsiness into a practised ease. Soon, he would be able to start building a real golem, one that could move and act as commanded. He had read up on the process and tried to find more books about it. However, he had no success with it, so he was on his own with the necromancer''s journal being his only guide. Even with that, he had gotten a good understanding of building up a clay golem, creating channels inside of it and connecting it to the golem core which was the main part of any golem. It was a hard process, but he would be able to start on it within a month. Narrowing his eyes, Kai focused more on the figure at hand, forgetting about all his future goals, and instead putting the work to his present. He moulded the head, smoothing the contours with practised movements. A side glance revealed Amyra across from him, her own golem taking shape with impressive speed. Hers was a humanoid form, sleek and agile-looking, quite different to Kai''s hulking brute of a creation. "Have you completed the book I gave you?" He asked, trying to strike up a conversation as they worked. She took a moment to respond, her eyes not leaving the clay. "Yes, it was interesting. There were a lot of descriptions about golems and how they worked. Though, the sketches were rough." "I drew them," he muttered as a matter of fact. Amyra looked up in horror, but he chuckled. "Well, they were indeed rough. I never got time to make them better. Glad you liked it." His words seemed to ease her up as she nodded her head slowly. "T-thank you for making it for me," she muttered, her soft voice barely audible, but he heard her clearly and smiled. Two weeks back, she had asked him for a book on golemancy since she had gotten interested in it, building up the clay figures with him. Since he couldn''t give her the book written by the necromancer in case bad memories resurfaced, he wrote one down himself. They lapsed back into silence, the rhythmic scrape of clay the only sound in their corner. Across the room, Claire sat at her usual table, hunched on a book. A stolen glance revealed her brow furrowed in concentration as she tried to decipher a passage. Kai noticed the book cover as she took it to her hand and knew he had read it months prior. It was a storybook about a young king and his fight to protect his kingdom from a demon king. It was mostly a children''s book with lots of pictures to go with the text, perfect for Claire who could follow it without any difficulty. His focus came back to the clay in his hand and stayed there for the next hour. It only broke when with a satisfied grunt, Amrya stepped back from her creation. Her golem stood tall and proud, the clay smoothed to a flawless finish. Kai nodded appreciatively. "It seems like it could take down a troll and ask for seconds. You are improving at a rapid pace." Amrya gave a shy smile. "Yours isn''t bad either." Kai looked down at his own creation, a pang of disappointment pricking him. Compared to Amrya''s elegant design, his golem looked like a pile of misshapen clay. But when taken individually, his wasn''t bad. Or maybe on a second note, he was being too critical about his handiwork. Mine is good, hers is just better. It couldn''t be helped since unlike Amyra, he couldn''t give his entire day to practising with clay. When they had first started, he was clearly better, but with time, Amyra had taken a good lead. It was to the point where he felt like she would do a better job building up an actual golem than him. "Actually," he mumbled, "I was thinking" Amrya raised an eyebrow, a flicker of curiosity sparking in her eyes as she waited for him to finish his words. "Do you want to help me build an actual golem, like the one in the book I gave you?" he asked. Amrya stared at him for a long moment, then a slow grin spread across her face. "Yes! I would love to!" *** Kai leaned across the worn table, his finger tracing a winding path across the faded map of Veralt city. Francis sat opposite him, his brow furrowed in concentration. Since he had taken charge of things, Kai had ended a few problems the city faced. The bandit situation was a thing of the past, people weren''t dying of hunger anymore and the reopening of the mines had breathed new life into the territory''s economy. But for Kai, the victory felt hollow. His trips through the city painted a sad picture crumbling infrastructure, pockets of desperate poverty, and a palpable sense of despair clinging to the air like a shroud. His community kitchen, while helpful, was a mere band-aid on a gaping wound. So, to deal with other issues, Francis wanted to consult Kai. They divided the whole city into different parts, areas which needed more mending and areas that were doing comparatively better. It seemed like the whole city was planned better than he had expected. There were clear lines, separating streets with farmers living on the western side and miners on the east. Merchants and other shop owners lived more in the middle and the noble estate was across the river with the guards'' quarters evenly spread out. Since the city was large enough to accommodate a lot of people, Kai had several plans running in his mind. "We can''t just rely on the mines, Francis," Kai said, "It''ll help, sure, but it''s not enough. We need a long-term plan, something sustainable." Francis nodded, his gaze flicking around the map. "Indeed, my Lord. The living conditions in the miners'' area are appalling, to say the least. Almost a slum. Most of our people depend upon farming and mining, so creating more industries would certainly help. For now, I believe we need to mend their living conditions." "Exactly," Kai said, jabbing a finger at a specific area. "That''s our priority. We need to improve their housing, and sanitation, and invest in proper equipment. From what I saw when I was in the mines, there was barely any protective equipment." His gaze swept across the rest of the map. "The rest of the city isn''t much better. We need repairs, clean-up crews, cobblers to mend the roads" The sheer scale of the task was daunting, but it was long due. Kai still recalled his first trip to the city and how everything looked like a ghost town. If he was going to correct things, he couldn''t be satisfied with the bare minimum. "Roads themselves are a mess. Potholes everywhere, some streets are barely passable. We''ll have to prioritise based on what''s in a more critical condition." Francis scribbled notes furiously, taking keen details into attention. "And," Kai continued, a thoughtful expression replacing his earlier frustration, "I''ve been thinking about setting up a school in the city. We don''t even have one and most people can''t even read and write. If we let it be, most of them would never develop their talents." "Isn''t the church school enough?" Francis asked. There was a Church of Luminous in the city that provided basic history lessons and maths to kids. Kai had heard about them and from what he knew, the things they taught were aimed more at the indoctrination of kids to their church rather than giving them a basic education. He wanted to change that. "No, it''s not. Kids don''t learn anything other than how great the gods are there. We need to take a more practical approach," he explained, receiving a frown from Francis who seemed to have concerns. "Lord Arzan, although your idea is" A sharp rap on the door startled them both. A guard, his face serious, poked his head into the room. "Lord Arzan," he announced, his voice tight. "There''s someone from the capital here. They are requesting your presence." Kai looked at Francis and exchanged a surprised look. Who is it now? - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 59. Rude guests They said they are from Archine Tower. The words of the guard hung in his mind as Kai walked, ending his meeting with Francis abruptly. He had already expected this when Francis requested to send the report, though he couldnt help the curiosity that built in his mind as he strode into the meeting room where the said people waited for him. With Francis by his side, their steps quickened as they opened the oak door with a creak. He sensed the heightened mana as soon as he entered the room. Although he had expected them to send someone, it was still a bit of surprise that the ones they sent were Mages. A part of him was excited about the prospect since he was curious about the level of Mages in Archine Tower. He had seen the prowess of Actra, but he was clearly not a Battlemage. He also didn''t know what his standing was in the tower. Was he a middle ranked member or a lower ranked one? Having these questions bubbling inside of him, he gave a curt nod at Killian, who stood by the door, his hand resting casually on the pommel of his sheathed sword. His gaze flicked between Kai and the emissaries, a silent question hanging in the air. Then, Kai looked up at the two Mages from the capital. They stood stiffly by the large wooden table, their robes a deep crimson that seemed to absorb the light itself. Kai took one full glance at how fearless they stood. One of them had light crimson hair and was rather short while the other one was a bit taller with dirty blonde hair. Both of their faces were basic a bit pudgy, clearly hinting at the fact that they weren''t used to moving their bodies. His eyes wandered and took in the more intricate details. A golden insignia, a stylised gryphon with outstretched wings, gleamed on their chests. A flicker of recognition sparked in Kai''s mind. It was the same symbol he''d seen engraved into a dusty amulet he''d found in Actra''s room. The taller of the two robed figures turned towards Kai. A hint of smugness, subtle but unmistakable, tinged his neutral expression. He didn''t bow, nor did he offer any form of greeting. "Are you Baron Arzan?" the Mage rasped, his voice cold and devoid of warmth. Kai straightened, not appreciating his tone or the way he looked at him. "I am," he replied, his voice firm. "What brings you to my territory?" The man slammed a document onto the table. It was a bunch of parchment, neatly tied by a seal. "Well, then," he intoned, voice dripping with false gravitas. "You are hereby under arrest for the murder of Actra Dhuran by decree of the Archine Tower." Kais eyes narrowed. Murder? he drawled. Thats a pretty hefty accusation to throw around in someone elses house, especially without any proof. The calmness that reeked out of his body made the two Mages glance at each other. He wasn''t bothered by them at all, already sensed their strengths by the subtle mana flowing out of them. The shorter Mage, previously silent, scoffed. Proof? The Archine Tower commands it. What more proof do you want? Kai snorted back, mimicking his attitude. "That ''command'' wouldn''t hold water in a leaky bucket. I thought Mages are known for being knowledgeable, but it seems like you didn''t even bother reading the report I sent to the Archine Tower." The Mages bristled, their faces scrunching at the insult. That''s an insult towards the Archine Tower and at me, the taller one hissed, his voice tight with poorly concealed frustration. "You will come with us to participate in the investigation!" The shorter Mage, his face flushed with anger, reached into a pouch at his belt and produced a pair of gleaming handcuffs. Embedded within the metal were faint pulsations syphon stones, meant to drain a Mage''s mana. Kai watched the display with cool amusement. "Handcuffs in my own home? Now that''s just disrespectful. Especially since you two don''t seem to have the power to back it up." The taller ones face turned to a scowl. Not the adorable kind, but the kind that could scare a child with only one blink. "What do you mean we don''t have the power?" His voice raised by the end, demanding a challenge. Kai raised an eyebrow. "I mean you''re weak," he stated bluntly. "Just a couple of puffed-up pigeons with fancy robes." Hearing that, the shorter Mage grunted in rage. With a snarl, he unleashed a gust of wind aimed directly at Kai''s chest. Kai, however, barely flinched. He sidestepped the spell with a casual grace. The wind howled past, sending shivers down Killian''s spine but missing Kai by a hair''s breadth. The taller Mage, fueled by his partner''s failure, launched a [Fireball] at Kai. The projectile hurtled towards him, a sphere of pure destructive energy. But before it could connect, Killian materialized between Kai and the fireball. With a swift movement, he unsheathed his sword and met the it head-on. A searing hiss filled the room as Killian''s blade clashed with the spell and it exploded. The force of the impact sent the Mage staggering backwards, his face contorted in surprise. The fireball sputtered and died, leaving behind a faint wisp of smoke. The shorter Mage, still fuming from his failed wind spell, gritted his teeth and formed another spell structure on his palm. Kai recognised it as a second circle spell called [Wind Blade]. A crescent of raw wind energy materialized in his hand, crackling with ominous power. Kai didnt need time to process. A counter-spell, a mirror image of the wind blade, met the Mage''s attack head-on. sea??h th n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The two forces collided in a miniature explosion that sent a gust of wind swirling around the room. Books tumbled from shelves, and papers fluttered to the floor. The Mage stared, his eyes shaking with with disbelief. He clearly hadn''t expected Kai to be strong enough to counter a second circle spell with such ease. Since you attacked first, don''t expect me to be cordial, he said, seizing the initiative and channelling his mana. Crimson flames erupted from his fingertips, twisting and coiling into a fiery whip. With a flick of his wrist, he lashed out, the whip wrapping around both the Mages and binding them tightly. Their crimson robes smouldered slightly, but the flames weren''t hot enough to cause serious injury. It was [Infernal Whip], a third circle spell with tons of applications and one perfect for scenarios like these. He gave a gentle unbothered smile and cast another spell. A spell structure formed and out of thin air, a flaming arrow popped up. It cut through the air and aimed right in between the tall ones face as he closed his eyes. Before it could hit him, Kai stopped it just in time. "See? Attacking a guest in their own home isn''t exactly proper etiquette. Seems the Archine Tower Mages haven''t been keeping up with their training courtesy courses." The shorter Mage, despite being bound, glared at Kai. "We were under orders to apprehend you. Get us off these whips or you would be" he tried to spat, but Kai simply turned the arrow towards him, making him wince. "Let''s first try introductions, shall we?" Kai''s voice was a low growl. You already know my name. So, it''s only proper you give your names and titles. I''m Jacks Krahlet, second circle Apprentice Mage, the taller one said, his eyes stuck on the arrow as he gritted his teeth. Klan Markson, second circle Apprentice Mage, The shorter one muttered, frowning. Good. Kai smiled. Now, answer every one of my questions without fail or I won''t hesitate to burn you to ashes. Y-you can''t do that, Jacks said. Harming Archine Tower Mages is a crime and a punishable offence. You won''t be able to get away with it. The king itself would strip you away of everything and You did the same to me, so whatever I am doing here is self-defence. You two really take me for a weakling. You are accusing me of killing a third circle Mage and if I actually could kill him, why do you think I would spare your lives? His words made them cower as they seemed to realise what a massive mistake they had made. Kai assumed that they believed that Actra had actually been killed by deceit. Or at least the report he had sent was false. As he saw them nodding in fear, he began asking his questions. Why am I under arrest?" Klan, his bravado dampened by the fiery arrow in front of his face, squirmed under Kai''s gaze. "Look," he finally muttered, "it''s a a summons, alright? An official request from the Archine Tower for your cooperation in their investigation." Kai raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched on his face. He snatched the document from the table, his eyes scanning the text. It was indeed a summons, a formal request for his presence at the Archine Tower. But anger still simmered in him. "Then why the arrest?" he demanded. "If it''s a summons, why the theatrics?" The two Mages remained silent, their faces flushed with a mixture of shame and fear. The flaming arrow flared brighter, casting an ominous glow on the room. Finally, Jacks mumbled a sheepish quality to his voice, "We we were under the impression you wouldn''t follow a simple summons. Thought we''d encourage your cooperation." The corner of Kai''s mouth twitched. "Encourage? Or were you simply trying to exert your authority, and enjoy a few days at my expense under the guise of an arrest? Did you hear that Im a Mage before?" Both of them flinched, their charade crumbling under his scrutiny. "We" Klan stammered. "We received word you were a Mage, but" "But we never expected me to be this powerful. We were told you were never trained by the tower or by another Mage. Jacks finished, lowering his head and sighing. Kai frowned, tossing the document onto the table. He gestured to Francis, who had remained silent but observant throughout the ordeal. "Francis," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Get these gentlemen some rooms. I''ll think about accompanying them to the Archine Tower at my own pace." He shook his head and the arrows vanished from the air, making the two Mages take a sigh of relief. Klan, emboldened by the removal of the flaming arrows, puffed up his chest. "If you don''t comply with the summons, the Archine Tower" Kai cut him off with a sharp glare. "I never said I wouldn''t comply. I said I''d go when I want to. For now, you''ll stay here and behave yourselves. Next time, the flames won''t be so forgiving. Also, I would talk to you again soon about the Tower and the summons. For now, go with Francis and don''t dare to do anything that you won''t be able to handle the consequences of." The two Mages nodded at the same time, their eyes filled with horror. *** The rhythmic rumble of the carriage wheels lulled Kai into a contemplative silence. Killian sat opposite him, his sharp eyes scanning the passing scenery. From time to time, his mouth would twitch, but he would stop himself from speaking up. Finally, seeming unable to contain his curiosity any longer, he spoke. "Those Mages from Archine Tower," Killian said. "What are you going to do about them?" Kai sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Honestly? I knew the Archine Tower would come knocking, but I didn''t expect it to be this fast." He tapped the document resting on his lap the official summons, a thin sheet of parchment that called him to the Tower to be questioned. It had an official tone and it was written that it was a simple investigation. Though, Kai didn''t believe it. "Going by the tone of the summon," Kai continued, It seems they haven''t bought Actra''s transformation story. Can''t blame them, really. Until someone else sees a man transforming into a monstrous creature, it''s hard to swallow." Killian nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Your word, even as a Baron, won''t be enough against the Archine Tower. They are an entity that even rivals the authority of the royal family. "Exactly," Kai said. "I have to go, answer their questions. But I won''t go unprepared." He leaned back in his seat, his gaze flickering out the window. Curiosity lingered in his eyes about the tower. "Honestly, Killian, I''m curious about this Archine Tower. They''re the pinnacle of magical authority in the entire kingdom. Powerful Mages, rumoured to possess libraries worth of magical knowledge and countless other things" His voice trailed off, lost in contemplation. The carriage lurched to a halt before he could speak more, jolting them both back to reality. The coachman, a gruff man named Bart, stuck his head through the window. "We''re here, Lord Arzan," he announced. Let''s talk about it later, Kai said, looking at Killian who nodded. They got off the carriage, stepping out into a sea of wheat swaying gently in the breeze. His mind shifted back from the topic of the Mages as he felt the wind on his face. Today he was out to inspect the farmlands. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 60. Farmlands The farmland was a practical sprawl, divided into neat, rectangular plots, it stretched as far as the eye could see. Kai let his eyes roam around the field for a few seconds and noticed it was filled with wheat crops mainly with other minor crops laid out in a few patches. He could see serfs and other workers by the field, eyeing him with curiosity, but not daring to walk towards him. Instead, they choose to bow their heads and keep working, glancing at him in between. Trees covered the furthest boundaries he could see, but the yield attracted his attention. He stepped forward, feeling the gentle warm breeze that had hints of coldness to it. The outskirts of his territory were divided into smaller plots. These plots were loaned to serfs, offering them a chance to farm their own land and keep a significant portion of the harvest. On the other side of the manor, closer to the heart of his domain, there were plots with different ownership structures deeds of property granted to families for their achievements, allowing them to build a more permanent stake in the land. Though, it was far less common. It had been a few months since he had become Arzan and hadn''t bothered to check up on the farmlands more than once. Even then, it was mostly to get them to grow particular herbs that they could use to make soup. Now, he wanted a far more permanent solution to their worries of food shortage and the first step was to inspect why the farmlands haven''t been yielding good crops, despite the soil being good for farming. As Kai and Killian surveyed the fields, a sense of unease settled upon them. He felt himself shifting his feet, trying to mask the frown that made its way to his face. The wheat, while tall and golden, lacked the vibrancy of a healthy crop. The stalks seemed thinner, the heads less full, a hollowness that was clear to anyone who looked at it. In between the wheat, other crops fared no better wilting vegetables, and stunted legumes, all painted in a palette of sickly yellow and brown. A sinewy man, his forehead drawn with worry lines deeper than any plough could carve, followed them. He bowed low, his wrinkly yet firm hand gripping a worn straw hat. "Lord Arzan," he said."I am Ubert, steward of the fields and the one who handles most things here. I''m honoured you have come to check up on the fields." "Ubert," Kai acknowledged, his voice mirroring the man''s seriousness. "Thank you for meeting us. Things look a bit hectic from afar, he said, trying to understand the situation better. Uberts eyes flickered towards the farmland. Something beneath the mask he put up almost showed itself, but he soon gave a broad smile. Things have been, so-so, Lord Arzan. But weve hope in Goddess Thalassa. Will your lordship take a tour? See the crops closer? Kai nodded. We''d appreciate a tour of the farm." Ubert smiled, his gaze lingering on the troubled fields. "Of course, my Lord." As they walked, Kai peppered Ubert with questions. The harvest last year, Ubert explained, had been dismal. Crops had withered and died, their potential choked out. The farmers, despite their best efforts, had little to show for their labour. As the crops weren''t of quality, they weren''t able to sell them to merchants. Tons of them had to be disposed of too, giving them one problem after another. "We''ve prayed to Goddess Thalassa," Ubert said, referring to the deity associated with water and fertility, "but the rains haven''t come. The land itself seems tired." Had the problems only started popping up last year? Kai asked, looking at Ubert who shook his head. No, it''s been going downhill for a few years now. We used to have one of the biggest harvests in the whole Dukedom before, but it''s a thing of the past now. The previous lord, may his soul rest in peace, gave up on finding solutions to our problems in the last phases of his life, Ubert said, looking at the sky before lowering his head towards the fields. We tried getting fertilisers and other solutions from merchants that might help us, but it was all in vain. Kai could only nod to his words. He knew everything was true since Francis had said similar things and he could see the crops for himself. Just the view made him wince internally. What exactly is the problem here? Is it the soil or something else? He knelt beside a sickly stalk of wheat, his brow furrowed in concern. He ran his fingers through the dry soil, his senses tingling with the faint hum of life beneath the surface. But something was odd. As he pushed his mana into the soil to inspect it, he only felt faint traces of mana in the soil. Normally, it could be explained as normal crops also tend to use miniscule amounts of mana in their growth, but the wheat didn''t seem to be absorbing the mana. It hardly looked good and if they would have taken so much mana, they would have shown signs of corrosion on them. He inspected more stalks and moved forward, trying to find what was draining all the mana. Then, he paused. A pungent odour tickled his nose. He spotted a small, spindly plant with purple flowers nestled amongst the wheat roots. He plucked it out, his eyes widening in realization. "Ubert," he said sharply, holding up the plant. "What is this doing here?" Ubert squinted at the weed. "Oh, that''s Stinkweed. We plant them around the crops, my Lord. They keep the pests away with their strong smell. They''re quite effective and easy to maintain." Kai shook his head, a frustrated sigh escaping his lips. "Effective, yes," he said, "but for what? They''re also leeching nutrients and mana from the soil, choking the wheat. That''s why the crops are withering!" He looked at Ubert and noticed the confused look on the mans face. He clearly had no idea what the weed actually functioned like. On another note, Kai couldnt believe they let Stinkweed into the farm and held them there for this long. No wonder the field was about to die. It wasn''t like the weed wasn''t used for pests, but the logical way of using them was to plant and remove them after two weeks before they could grow their roots to start absorbing mana and nutrients. He inhaled deeply and shook his head. I- I didn''t know about it, Ubert said, a hint of guilt in his voice. "Well, Stinkweed is indeed effective at keeping pests away, Ubert. They''re used in smelling bombs for a reason that pungent odour is quite repulsive to insects. But here''s the problem." Kai crushed the Stinkweed between his fingers, releasing a stronger burst of the foul smell. "While they deter pests, they also have a nasty habit of absorbing nutrients and even mana from nearby plants. They''re essentially stealing the life force the wheat needs to grow." Ubert''s face contorted in disbelief. "But how? We''ve been using Stinkweed for years! There was a terrible locust problem two seasons back, and these were the only things that saved the crops." Kai nodded in understanding. "I see. But a temporary solution shouldn''t become a permanent problem, Ubert. The Stinkweed might have saved you from the locusts, but they''ve been slowly weakening the soil ever since. Get them out of here, all of them. We''ll find other ways to deal with the pests. If you actually want to use them, remove them before they can grow their roots." His gaze swept across the vast expanse of the fields, a plan forming in his mind. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The golden wheat, while not quite a sickly yellow, lacked the vibrant green of a healthy crop. They needed water, and relying solely on Goddess Thalassa''s whims wasn''t going to cut it. "We need a more reliable irrigation system, Ubert," Kai declared. "We can''t keep depending on the rain for our harvest. I''m pretty sure you make use of the river, but we need to utilise it better, he said, looking at Ubert who was listening intently. "We can divert some of that water, channel it through the fields imagine, a network of irrigation canals, bringing life-giving water directly to the crops." Killian who was silent the entire time spoke. "Building irrigation channels would take time, my Lord. We''d need to gather materials, hire labour." "We have time, Killian," Kai countered. After seeing the plants suffer and knowing the troll it took on the economy, he didnt want to ignore the problems that he could solve. "And with the Stinkweed gone, the next season''s harvest will already see a significant improvement. But in the meantime, Ubert. He turned to the farm steward. "I have a proposition for you. Are you open to trying something a little unusual?" A flicker of surprise crossed Ubert''s face at the last part of his sentence. "Unusual plants, my Lord?" he echoed, scratching his head with a calloused hand. "Indeed," Kai said, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "There are a few plants I know of, with shorter harvest times, perfect for the next season planting. They won''t yield massive quantities, but they''ll provide a safety net, ensuring we don''t face food shortages." Ubert, while sceptical, nodded in agreement. He seemed like he wasn''t familiar with these "unusual" plants, but the Lord''s word held weight. Besides, anything was better than another year of meagre harvests. Kai nodded back and got back onto his inspection, his mind buzzing with possibilities. The nutrients and mana from the soil had been sucked away by the Stinkweed and it would take a while for them to replenish on its own, so he probably would have to push his own mana into the soil, making sure to make it unexpected, so the soil could absorb it well. It wasn''t a hard job and he guessed he would be able to finish it in a week. He glanced at Killian, then back at the vast expanse of the field. An idea began to take root as he looked at a few areas that weren''t being used yet. "Killian," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. What do you think about using a section of the land for alchemical herbs and magical plants?" Killian raised an eyebrow. "Alchemical herbs, my Lord? Here? Wouldn''t that be a bit unconventional? I doubt the serfs know how to grow them." Kai grinned. "Unconventional, perhaps, but with the right planning, it could be incredibly beneficial. Imagine a steady supply of rare ingredients for potions and enchantments, readily available right here on our doorstep. It would not only bolster our own resources, but could potentially become a source of trade with other regions." Killian stroked his chin thoughtfully. "An interesting proposition, my Lord. Certainly worth considering. But wouldn''t it require significant investment in terms of magical wards and security? We would also have to get seeds and look into how to acquire plants such as those." Kais mind was already running a mile at the thought. He was about to reply when their conversation was cut short. A strange sensation prickled at Kai''s skin, a ripple in the very air itself, a surge of raw mana. Before he could even react, Killian looked at him. "My Lord?" Killian''s voice was sharp with urgency. "What is it?" Kai didn''t answer. His gaze snapped upwards, a plume of smoke rising into the otherwise clear sky. And then came a sound that sent a jolt of lightning down his spine a loud, screeching roar that echoed through the fields. Without a word, Kai launched himself forward, a powerful wind spell propelling him with unnatural speed. What the hell is that?! He sprinted through the fields, rounding a bend and bursting onto the streets where onlookers were also staring at the spot the smoke was coming from. Just by looking at it, he knew where it was. He took a few more turns as the wind around his legs propelled him forward, his body barely keeping up with the speed as he nearly fell on a turn. Still, he kept running and soon, the view of the main gate came in front of his eyes. His heart plummeted into his stomach as he gazed upon the structure that now lay in ruins, a gaping hole torn through its centre. Smoke and dust billowed into the sky, obscuring the view of what lay beyond. And amidst the chaos, a monstrous figure emerged from the wreckage, its silhouette casting a grotesque shadow across the land. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 61. Spiders Kais lungs burned as he reached the broken gate. His head snapped towards the grating noise that came from the monsters in front of it. The sound itself sent shivers down his spine despite the rush of adrenaline in his body. And the sight All he could see were the massive limbs of three colossal spiders. Their bodies were the size of small houses. Their carapaces, a mottled obsidian black gleamed, reflecting under the sun''s rays. Each spider had eight spindly legs, each one thicker than a grown mans torso, and tipped with razor-sharp claws. Their multiple eyes scanned the chaos theyd wrought almost as if they were proud of it. Kai recognised them as Arachne spiders, Grade 3 monsters. His attention divided as he saw one of the Enforcers Nelson standing his ground under the numerous legs aiming at him. His heavy halberd swung with surprising agility, deflecting a swipe from one of the spiders claws. But the force of the blow sent him staggering back, the cobblestones erupting beneath his boots. Before Kai could launch himself into the spiders, his focus was distracted further. Merchants in the street abandoned their stalls, looking for places to hide, women clutched their children, screaming and praying for different gods who seemed to abandon the public once again like the fields, and a few guards who were present seemed to be hopelessly outmatched. They attempted to form a line of defence, but even the weapons in their hands seemed to shake. A guttural screech pierced the air, and another spider lunged for Nelson. Its jaws, dripping with venomous ichor, snapped open, aiming at the Enforcer. But Nelson rolled away just in time. The spider''s mandibles slammed into the ground, creating a crater that sent up dust particles in the air. His dodge seemed to anger the thick skimmed monster, but Nelson stood his ground. He yelled back, his voice firm as he swung his halberd. But the spider showed surprising agility and moved back just in time before counterattacking. Its legs moved through the air at the same time, aiming at different parts of Nelson. He deflected each leg that came his way, but the force of them kept pushing him back as he groaned in pain. Kai couldnt watch from afar anymore. He saw Nelson trying, but if the Enforcer continued to defend against the Arachne spider alone, there was a higher possibility of him losing his life. These were no necromancers, bandits or larvae but monstrous spiders. Though the former cooking apprentice had improved, he was still far from taking on a Grade 3 beast on his own. Kai inhaled deeply and steadied his feet before surging forward. Mana weaved around his palms, flowing through his veins before a structure formed, glowing brightly. It was [Flame Arrow]. The same spell he had used against the Archine Tower Mages and one which was an easy replacement for [Firebolt]. Unlike the latter, it took more mana to form and maintain, but with his higher reserves, he knew the impact and the damage will be higher against the multi-limbed creatures. The flaming arrow erupted from his palms instantly, streaking towards the spider. The projectile, a sharp arrow of destruction, slammed into the creatures carapace, leaving a sizzling scorch mark. The spider shook its head, its attention momentarily distracted from Nelson. Nelson! Aim for the lower abdomen! Kai yelled before the spider could recover from the surprise spell. Nelson didnt even take time to look back as he lunged forward, his halberd aiming there. The remaining guards who were shaky in their feet, charged forward with the arrival of Kai. He didnt waste another moment. He sent more [Flame Arrows] aiming at the legs of the other two spiders who were making a fuss, reaching for their weak, wounded friend. The burning smell spread in the air as the arrows hit their mark and the spiders let out a painful growl. The guards made their way towards the two arachne spiders, their swords waving left and right, surrounding them and hitting any spot they could. But the spiders weren''t making it any easier. They moved swiftly, defending against the guards with their numerous legs. On the side, Nelson brought back his heavy halberd and hit the abdomen once more, oozing heavy blood out of it, splattering the street like a wide canvas. The spider screeched in pain hit back with a leg and Nelson sidestepped in a moment of swiftness. Not wanting to give it any more time, he charged up, aiming at the abdomen again. To assist him, Kai sent out more and more arrows towards the spider, making it stagger backwards. Due to its massive body, it had no way of dodging, but it swung its legs in an attempt to defend itself. The arrows burned its legs but failed to penetrate as the spider grunted and screeched. Nelson moved to launch another strike and a guard''s cry made Kai flung his head in his direction. He saw a thick stream of white, sticky web catch a young guard full in the face. He cried out as the spider threw more web, wrapping his entire body and making it impossible for the guard to move. The Arachne spider seemed to take pride in its work as it let out a happy grunt and moved towards the guards. The other guards around it tried to move to defend their comrade, but more webs came their way, wrapping around their arms and legs. The guards squirmed under the webs, their screams muffled by the sticky substance as the spider tried to reel them in. Not under my watch. Kai fired up an arrow, sending it right into the middle of the thread that attached the web, burning it up as he saw someone familiar approaching the scene atop a horse. Lord Arzan! Killian cried out. As Killian appeared, Kai formed a spell structure and shot out a vortex of flames, trapping the spider to not let it move towards the guards. The flames burned the spider''s legs as it tried to move through them, burning away the chitin and flesh. At this time, Killian slashed through the webbing with his sword, freeing the trapped guards. All the while keeping his eyes on the spider which was soaring and screeching as it tried to get rid of the flames around its legs which bled. Killian soon got rid of all the webs and turned his mount towards the spider, careful enough not to hurt the horse with all the fire. Kai launched another volley of flaming arrows at the wounded spiders lower abdomen. With Killian in charge and the arrows, it didn''t take a long time for the spider to be heavily wounded. As the spider bled with reddish-black blood, it hissed and sprang up at the knight. He moved just in time to escape the spider coming through the flames and aimed at its side, but the sword flickered away, not even managing to leave a scratch at the pristine shell. Killian frowned as the spider moved to pierce him. Aim for the abdomen! Kai''s voice brought back light to Killian''s eyes as he rolled on the ground, escaping the attack. His sword moved like a viper striking, entering the spider and coming out from the other side. Killian pushed the spider away as blood spilt on the ground. In the background, the other spider seemed reckless as it continued to spit webs. Nelson tried to get through its thick carapace, swinging the halberd in every way possible. Kai didn''t move from his spot, trying to assist Nelson since Killian was already here to handle the third spider. Although his flaming arrows didn''t kill the bastards, they wounded them enough for the fighters to harm them directly. He unleashed spell after spell, giving Nelson enough time to move under the spider''s legs and kill it. With Kai keeping the monster distracted, he moved with ease, deflecting any attacks that came his way and hitting the same spot again and again. The spider lost more blood second and unleashed a torrent of web towards Nelson, but it was clear that the Enforcer was trained well by Killian. He dodged the web and planted his feet onto the ground, putting all his power into one thrust. The spider tried to defend, but Nelson was swift and his weapon cut through two of its bleeding legs before smashing through its carapace. His face scrunched up in fury and concentration. Blood oozed into the ground as Nelson kept twisting his halberd, wanting to see to the end that the spider was dead. It was only after Kai put a hand on his shoulder that the man stopped. Looking back, he blinked his eyes. You did a good job. It''s dead, Kai said, patting his shoulders. Y-yes, Lord Arzan! The man muttered, lowering his head, his eyes moving towards the spider''s corpse before he took a sigh of relief. Rest now. I will handle the last one. As Kai said that, he turned back to see Killian battling with the last arachne spider. It was bigger than the other two, protecting its lower abdomen, unlike its fallen brethren. Its eight legs deflected blows from every direction as the guards staggered back, not daring to come too close. When Killian rushed, swinging his sword in a vibrant arc, it shot out a thick web, directly on his face. Killian cried out, momentarily blind as he tried to get the web out of his face. That much was enough for the spider to move and jab with its legs. Just then, Kai moved, attracting its attention with a flaming arrow. More and more arrows formed in the air as the spider looked towards him. The arrows wheezed through the air as they shot out webs to hold them back before leaping at him. Kai didn''t know if the spider recognised him as the strongest around here, but its eyes glinted as it charged, shooting more webs. Unfortunately for him, he was done playing around. As the webs reached him, something changed in the atmosphere. Mana surged all around him as something bubbled up from the ground. Out of nowhere, a searing wall of flames burst forth, reaching ten feet into the air. The webs evaporated as they touched it, but the spider didn''t take the cue. It smashed right into it and let out a loud screech that everyone in the city heard. Flames licked at its body, slowly climbing on its legs and carapace. The ground scorched around it as a pungent smell filled the air. While the spider hissed in pain, the wall disappeared and out from it, Kai appeared, holding a flaming spear. The monster''s eyes widened as it saw him and it tried to turn and run, but its eight legs weren''t fast enough. The spear cut through its carapace, piercing its body as it staggered. Its legs twitched for a few moments before going still. With that, the last arachne spider crumpled. I feel good after being able to use these spells again. It feels like I''m back in my youth, Kai muttered, shaking his head. [Firewall] and [Searing Lance] were two third-circle spells he had used often and being able to use them again felt good. Though he had partially expanded his reserves, it still had enough for more than a few spells. He streaked the sweat out of his forehead and took one final look at the slain bodies of the spiders, their bodies leaking a viscous reddish black ichor that stained the cobblestones a sickly hue. With a sigh, Kai moved towards Nelson and Killian who were tending to an injured guard. The former cooking apprentice knelt beside a guard whose legs seemed to be stabbed by the spider''s leg. By the way, he groaned, Kai was sure that a few bones were broken too. He wasn''t the only one as more guards rested on the ground, their injuries stinging as the adrenaline left their bodies. Kai leaned a bit against the guard and used a minor healing spell. Immediately, a surge of mana hit the guard and the paleness of his face lessened. Although it wasn''t enough for his wound to close, it still helped as he stopped bleeding and his complexion looked much better. "He would be good in a few days. I will heal the other guards too, but first, what happened?" Kai asked, looking at Nelson. He needed to know, to understand the chain of events that had led to this moment. If he was right, Nelson was here when the spiders burst through the gates. sea??h th n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Nelson lifted his head slowly, his eyes scanning Kais face before settling on the latters eyes. We were conducting our routine patrol," he said, his words punctuated by ragged breaths. "Just making sure everything was secure at the gate." He gestured towards the shattered remnants with a trembling hand. "Then, out of nowhere, we saw them. Three of those spiders. They were moving fast, like a pack of hungry wolves scenting prey. Before we could even process, one of them attacked the gate." He grimaced as he recalled it. "We tried to hold them back, Lord Arzan, but they were unstoppable. I sent a runner to inform you, but" Kai finished the sentence for him, his gaze steady. "But fortunately, I was close enough to intervene." Nelson managed a weak nod. Thankfully, Kai had reached as he saw the smoke from afar before the runner could come to find him. He straightened, noticing how Nelson flinched for a second. It seemed like the young Enforcer wasn''t used to talking to him and was nervous. "Enough damage has already been done," he muttered. He looked at the shattered gate, then back at Killian and Nelson, his face masked with his usual grimness. Arachne spiders," Kai said, his voice low. "I''ve never seen any of those around here. Why now? These beasts typically avoid civilised areas, let alone a well-fortified city." Killian''s brow furrowed. "Perhaps," he said slowly. "The shift in seasons has something to do with it. Aurora has sprung, and since the winter is over, the dungeon would have opened up. Lots of beasts have emerged out of it." A flicker of understanding crossed Kai''s face. So, these spiders came out of it. Killian nodded. "It''s a major possibility. But that still doesn''t explain their aggressive behaviour. Dungeon monsters rarely attack cities directly." Kak frowned. More questions sprang up in his mind. It didn''t seem like a random attack to him. An unsettling feeling, a premonition of something far worse, crawled up his spine. "There''s more to this," he said, not wanting to believe his own words. "Well see what this is all about. Send word to the hunters. We''ll need them to track these creatures, to find the source of this attack." He surveyed the scene once more, the civilians were already walking here and there now that the battle was over, though the guards tried to keep them away from the corpses. "We also need to tend to the injured and start on repairs." - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 62. Primal urgency Two days had passed since the Arachne spider attack, the heavy memory still hanging heavy in the air like the acrid scent of smoke. Kai sat at the head of a heavy oak table in one of the rooms where usual meetings were held, sunlight slanting through the tall windows and illuminating the faces of three weathered hunters stood. These men, clad in worn leather jerkins and thick furs, hailed from villages on the Vasper Forest''s fringes the same forest where Kai had faced the necromancer months ago. Francis sat beside the hunters, opposite Kai, his arms crossed and a neutral expression drawn on his face. The silence in the room was thick with tension, broken only by the occasional crackle from the fireplace in the hearth. As Kai gazed at the three hunters, he recognised one of them. Phillips, it''s been a while. Phillips of Hagmons Keep greets you, my lord, the man said, giving a slight bow and looking brighter from the last time he had seen him. His hair looked shorter now and he seemed to be doing well for himself going by the glow on his face. Back then, he had assisted them with the necromancer and it wasn''t a small help either since he had even participated in the fight. How have you been? he asked. After you dealt with the necromancer, things have been progressing well. We have repaired the gate and the hunts have been feeding my family and the rest of the village well. He nodded his head towards him before his eyes moved to the other two men who immediately offered their names. Quenson of Averous Village greets you, my lord. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Maison of Mangrove Village greets you, my lord. Once their greetings were done, the hunters took their seats and he started the meeting. "Thank you all for coming," Kai began, his voice sturdy as he looked between the men. He kept the water he chugged down aside and leaned forward at the men who gave a brief nod. "As you know, the city was recently attacked by monsters." He gestured towards a sketch depicting an Arachne spider, its eight spindly legs and menacing mandibles meticulously rendered on parchment. The hunters leaned closer, their faces scrunching up in recognition as they studied the drawing. "We believe these creatures originated from the Vasper forest," Kai continued. Particularly from the dungeon opening up. The attack was strange since these spiders shouldn''t be here. I want to know what''s going on in the forest. Maison, a burly man with a thick salt-and-pepper beard, spoke up with a loud voice. "Opens up every spring, spewing forth all sorts of nasty creatures. We usually see a rise in monster activity in nearby villages during those times." "Hmm," Kai acknowledged, his gaze flitting between the hunters. "But wouldn''t these creatures typically target the villages closer to the forest? Why venture to the city?" Quinton, a wiry man with a hawk-like nose chimed in. "Normally, you''d be right, Lord Arzan. But this year something feels different. The dungeon''s opening seemed more violent this time. And the creatures, they''re more restless, bolder than usual. They aren''t displaying normal behaviour." Kai straightened in his seat, noticing the patterns of his words. "Restless? Not displaying usual behaviour? Can you elaborate?" The hunter scratched his beard thoughtfully. "Well, about two weeks ago, I was on a hunting trip deep within the Vasper Forest, quite a distance from the dungeon. And I saw them, a whole swarm of spiders, moving together in a way I''ve never witnessed before." A flicker of surprise crossed Kai''s face. "A swarm of spiders? So far from the dungeon?" Quenson nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Aye, it was unsettling. Like they were moving towards something. I stared at it for a while since it wasn''t usual for those spiders to be in that part of the forest. The room fell silent once more, the weight of the hunters words hanging in the heavy air. By Quenson''s words, it was already clear the spiders were acting strange. But why? Normally, he could point it to monsters exploring and accidentally coming towards the city. Though, that was the case with a few spiders. If an entire swarm was moving, then it was something else. Arachne spiders were typically territorial creatures content to dwell within the confines of the dungeon or any other closed places. Them venturing so far away and in such numbers? It painted a disturbing picture. He turned to Francis, his voice laced with a hint of unease. "Strange, isn''t it?" he said, his gaze flickering between the sketch of the Arachne spider and the concerned faces of the hunters. "These creatures venturing so far from their territory. What could be causing this?" He pondered, not getting any answers. Lord Arzan, Phillips muttered, bringing his attention back to him. I have also noticed them in the territories of other species. At first, I thought it was accidental since I only saw a few of them, but I don''t know now. Beasts normally don''t move towards others'' territory as it''s a proclamation of a fight. Kai nodded, feeling like there was something at play with the spiders. His thoughts halted as he noticed the uneasiness in Franciss posture. He was shifting in his seat slightly, looking at Kai. Almost as if he had something on his mind. What is it, Francis? Kai asked. Francis frowned, taking a few seconds before speaking. "There''s a term for such occurrences, my Lord," he said slowly, his voice low. "A beast wave Sometimes, beasts would act strange and gather together, and launch an attack towards cities or any human civilizations. The patterns the hunters talked about matched what I have read. Kai''s eyes narrowed. The term wasn''t unfamiliar. It wasn''t a common event, but it occurred enough times for there to be records of it. There weren''t any particular reasons for why it happened, but normally they were known to destroy entire civilizations. If we assume it''s a beast wave, then" Kai''s voice was a tight coil of suspicion. "Doesn''t that imply the presence of a leader? Beasts don''t typically work together unless compelled to do so." Francis pursed his lips. Yes, that''s the worry, Lord Arzan. If it truly is a beast wave, then there must be something driving these creatures, a force orchestrating this movement. A monster capable of leading everyone and making them coordinate." A hint of a wry smile played on Maisons lips. Lord Arzan, a beast wave typically Well, let''s just say it throws a wrench into the natural order. Territorial boundaries blur, and a primal urgency takes hold. The strongest become the de facto leader, driving the weaker creatures forward." "The strongest, you say?" Kai slowly nodded, trying to put it all together. "And in the Vasper Forest, the strongest monster you''ve encountered, who is it?" Maison shook his head immediately. "Vermorga, the Brood Mother," he snarled at the name."A monstrous Arachne, rumoured to have grown to unnatural size by feasting on the dungeon core''s mana. I''ve only ever glimpsed it from afar once in my youth, it was a colossal nightmare with eyes like burning forests." Kai''s stomach clenched. A colossal brood mother, fueled by the dungeon''s very essence, leading a horde of ravenous spiders out of their territory? The picture painted a terrifying scenario. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. If he recalled, it was a Grade 6 monster, needing a whole group of third circle Mages to deal with alongside Enforcers and even common guards. If such a creature attacked the city, there was no way they would be able to defend against it. "Tell me everything you know about these spiders," he demanded. "Population size, typical behaviour, hunting patterns everything!" The hunters exchanged glances, a mutual understanding passing between them. This was no longer a simple matter of tracking down a few escaped creatures. This was a potential catastrophe in the making. For the next hour, the room filled with conversation. The hunters spoke of the vast network of tunnels beneath the dungeon, home to an untold number of Arachne of varying sizes and strengths. They described their hunting patterns, their venomous bites, and their skittish nature. Most importantly, they confirmed Francis''s grim prediction. "In a beast wave," Francis said, "all bets are off. Species that wouldn''t be caught dead within a hundred leagues of each other will find themselves fighting alongside each other, driven by a primal instinct for survival and destruction." The weight of the revelation pressed down on Kai. A single arachne attack had been hard to deal with. A full-blown beast wave, led by a monstrous brood mother and fueled by the cooperation of various creatures, could spell doom for the estate. He looked at the hunters. "Thank you," he said, his voice hoarse. "Keep a close eye on the forest. Report any unusual activity or any signs of other creatures venturing out of their territories. We need to be prepared for what''s coming." The hunters nodded and Francis glanced at him. When Kai''s gaze matched his, he knew they were both thinking the same thing. If they didn''t do anything, they would be annihilated! - Only two days passed since the hunters'' visit, and their reports confirmed Kai''s worst fears. The spiders, in a stark departure from their usual skittish behaviour, seemed fixated on a single path a path leading directly to the city. Even more unsettling was the unnatural quietude in the forest. Predators that would normally be out hunting after leaving the dungeon were strangely subdued. These reports, coupled with Francis'' words and the parchments Kai had unearthed from the library archives, all pointed towards one horrifying possibility the nascent stages of a beast wave. The very thought sent shivers down his spine. But Kai couldn''t afford to dwell on anxieties. He needed evidence, something concrete to validate their suspicions. Thus, on a crisp morning, he found himself leading Claire, much to her surprise, towards the very edge of the Vasper Forest. She had been surprised when he asked if she would like to go for a walk, but she surely hadn''t expected it to be towards the edge of the forest It was a ride of two hours even with the horses running at full speed and throughout the way, Kai didn''t speak, urging Claire to cast curious glances at him. He only spoke once they reached their destination. Let''s get off here. Okay. Claire, surprisingly adept at riding, dismounted alongside him as they reached a secluded clearing. The dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves cast dancing shadows on the forest floor. She cast nervous glances around, her eyes flitting between the trees. "Why are we here, Lord Arzan?" she finally voiced her curiosity, unable to contain it any longer. Kai turned to her, a calm smile gracing his lips. "We''re here to perform a simple ritual, Claire," he said, "A ritual that might give me a few answers." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 63. Forest spirit Drawing back his attention from Claires curious eyes, Kai focused on the woodland elk that was in the small spacious area, taking its position into his aim. He noticed how its antlers were a crown of polished bone. It looked majestic, but it was barely a Grade 2 monster. It would take a few spells to deal with it, but his main focus was on simply scaring it away. White streaks of mana formed around his palm, turning into a spell structure for [Wind Blade]. Within a second, the wind solidified into a shimmering blade, humming with his mana. As he shot the blade towards the beast, blood immediately stained its flank. It got caught off guard by the attack as it grunted in pain, its feet hurrying around the nearby trees. Kai landed another blow with the wind blade, sending the elk crashing back into the bush with a startled snort. It ran deep inside the forest, vanishing from sight with an enraged bellow. Kai sighed and let his arm down as he deactivated the spell, the remaining mana dissipating into the cool morning air. No more disturbances, he thought as he glanced around the clearing. It was as good a place as any. Claire, who was behind him the entire time, walked forward, her feet crunching the dried leaves that were all over the floor. Now Kai said in just above a whisper. What now, Lord Arzan? From his pouch, he retrieved a vial filled with a white powder, shimmering faintly for what was inside. He bent down and began to trace a complex symbol on the forest floor, the powder leaving a luminescent trail in its wake. He paid extra attention to the patterns he connected, trying to make sure there was no mistake in even a slight dent. The swirling pattern of circles and intersecting lines vibrated with subtle mana he pushed through to seal the lines as he continued with the overall image in mind. He worked in focused silence, the only sound the rhythmic crunch of his boots on the forest floor as he moved between points of the design. Ten minutes melted away. As he finished the final line, a feeling washed over him the first step was done. Claire, who had watched the entire process with curious eyes, spoke up. "What now?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. "The first step is complete," Kai replied his thoughts aloud, wiping his brow free of sweat. "Now for the second." He held up his hand, and a ball of condensed green mana materialized in his palm. Claire''s eyes widened further as she stared at the glowing orb in Kai''s hand. Then, he handed the small ball of light to her hand and started creating one for himself as well. "Hold on to it," he instructed, watching as she wrapped her fingers around the ball of mana like a precious gem. "Now, stand inside the symbol." He gestured towards the completed design on the forest floor. Claire did as instructed, stepping into the centre of the drawn pattern. Kai took a few paces back, then walked purposefully towards the symbol. He reached out a hand, touching the cool earth where the lines intersected at the centre. The moment his hand made contact, a surge of mana erupted from the symbol, a wave of power that washed over them both and the air that surrounded them. Claire gasped, the sensation both exhilarating and slightly terrifying. But before she could dwell on it, Kai spoke, his voice dropping to a low murmur. "This might sting a little," he warned, producing a small, glinting needle from his pouch. "But I need a single drop of your blood on the symbol." Claire''s eyes widened in surprise. Too many surprises for a morning, but what could Kai do he needed her for the ritual. He shook his head inwardly at his own thought process and focused on the task at hand. "Let me demonstrate," he said, pricking his own finger with a swift motion. A bead of crimson welled up, and he guided it down to the centre of the ritual symbol, where it merged with the dim light that came from the pattern. The luminescence pulsed briefly, then settled back to its previous intensity. Taking a deep breath, Claire held out her hand. Kai gently gave her the needle as she took a deep breath. She squeezed her finger, letting a single drop of blood fall onto the symbol. Like his offering, it was absorbed by the light. The clearing remained stubbornly silent. The ritual circle continued to glow, fueled by Kai''s mana, but nothing else seemed to happen. He looked at Claire who tilted her head. "What exactly is this ritual supposed to do, Lord Arzan?" she finally asked, her voice laced with a hint of apprehension. "Since the spider attack," he began, his voice low. "There''s been concerns about a potential threat to the city." Claire''s eyes widened. "A threat? You never mentioned this." "No one other than a few people knows. There''s a chance, a possibility, that a beast wave might be coming." He explained the unusual behaviour reported by the hunters and the unnatural calm after the dungeon opening. All signs pointed towards a brewing storm, a monstrous tide threatening to engulf the city. "You see, I need more information," he continued, his gaze meeting hers. "Information only someone who had lived in the forest from birth might have." Claire''s brow furrowed. "What do you mean?" Kai''s gaze held hers. He could visibly see how she scrunched her forehead while her lips trembled, thinking of ways to connect the dots between the threat, the ritual and his words. "This ritual," he said, "is meant to call upon the spirit of the forest." Claire gasped at the information, her eyes shifting from his to look at the surroundings. A forest spirit should be here at any moment if the ritual he did was right. And Kai, with all the information he had, knew this ritual must work one way or another. sea??h th N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. They simply have to wait. A few minutes passed by as they did so, simply waiting for something to happen. Claire kept looking towards the forest as if she was waiting for someone to emerge from the trees. Finally, as he wondered if there was even a spirit in the forest, there was a shift. The air shimmered, distorting the world around them. A low hum vibrated through the earth, resonating deep in Kais bones. It was as if the world had stopped for a second as a being revealed itself. "It''s here," Kai murmured, his eyes fixed on the distortion before them. The air suddenly solidified, coalescing into a being of pure emerald light. It lacked any defined features yet radiated a force of raw mana. It pulsed with a life force and if Kai was right, the mana he felt meant that it was an old spirit that had formed at least a century or two back. As he squinted his eyes at it, he barely saw a humane figure. It drifted closer, the air crackling as it passed. For a while, it kept observing the both of them, as if in the middle of making a decision. Finally, it hovered towards Claire, its formless light seeming to focus on the mana orb she still clutched tightly in her hand. Kai leaned in, his voice barely a whisper. "Give it your mana," he instructed, his eyes locked on the green entity. "And ask questions. About the beasts, their movements is there indeed a beast wave coming? Think of it in your mind" Claire nodded, still trembling slightly. Claires eyes closed, her mind probably raising the questions they needed answers to. He waited patiently, letting her carry on with his commands. The forest spirit pulsed in response, then moved closer, engulfing the mana orb in its luminous form. A few minutes passed by, and the green light continued to pulse after every thirty seconds or so probably every time Claire questioned it. Finally, it took a step back, giving one last look to Claire before retreating into the forest and disappearing. As soon as the spirit was gone, Claire slumped down onto the soft earth, drained from the experience. Kai rushed to her side. "Are you alright?" he asked, gently offering her a hand. Claire took a shuddering breath. "I I think so," she stammered. "That was incredible. I never expected to talk to someone in my mind." Kai gave her a weak smile, offering her his waterskin. "It''s a lot to take in," he admitted, taking a seat beside her. "The forest spirits are powerful beings, guardians of their domain. Not all are readily accessible, especially to those who don''t possess certain qualities. The one you talked to wasn''t young, so it''s normal to feel like you have lost all your strength." He watched her take a sip of water, a flicker of understanding crossing her face as he talked more. "The ritual is designed to be a call, an offering of goodwill. Sometimes, the spirits are particular about who they commune with. It differs from each of them. Forest ones tend to like females more and earth spirits are much easier to talk to if one is a male. Though, it''s not absolute and there have been enough exceptions." Claire''s eyes widened in realization. "That''s why you brought me," she gasped. "You weren''t just showing me a nice place for a walk." Kai nodded. I have no idea about the spirit of the Vasper Forest and as I couldn''t take a chance, I brought you here." He offered her a wry smile. "So I enlisted your help. By the way, what did it say?" Claire seemed like she was hesitating before she spoke. "The spirit confirmed what you told me," she said, her voice low. "The creatures are indeed gathering, uniting under the leadership of the arachne brood mother, Vermorga. Apparently, the other species agreed to aid it since the spiders threatened to attack and kill them. It said the spider is the strongest and most of the species in the forest have rarely liked humans. He rubbed a hand over his face, the weight of the revelation pressing down on him. That complicates things. He frowned. He knew there was a good chance of a beast wave before, but this basically confirmed it. No matter how much he thought, the current him could never go against a beast wave. Maybe he would be able to deal with dozens of those spiders at once, but just the brood mother was enough to topple over any chances they had. Not to mention the other species the forest spirit had talked about. Maybe, only the kingdom''s army would be able to deal with it. Lord Arzan, are you okay? Claire looked at him, her eyes looking concerned. I''m fine, he replied, his mind coming back from his thoughts. Did the forest spirit tell you about every species that has agreed to take part in the beast wave? Yes. Then we prepare, he said, more to himself than her. *** Despite the grim confirmation of the looming beast wave, he hadn''t given up entirely. He wanted to prepare for it and see what choices they had to defend against it. Before calling a meeting to talk about the beast wave, he had other matters to deal with. He hadn''t forgotten about the Archine Tower and the two Mages, Jacks and Klan, who had been cooped up in their quarters, pestering the servants with inquiries about his whereabouts. After days of refusing their requests, Kai decided it was time to hear them out. As he entered the room, he found them pacing around in a nervous demeanour. When they saw him, they straightened up, as if they hadn''t forgotten how easily he had subdued them. "Lord Arzan," Jacks greeted him. You are finally here! We have been meaning to talk to you, Klan said, not bothering with greetings. Our reports are due at the Archine Tower in two months. If we don''t leave, they are going to think something unfortunate happened Klan trailed off, his eyes darting nervously as he saw Kai''s gaze hardening. UhC if we don''t return, they will send more Mages until you show yourself in the Tower. Please come with us! We are missing our theory classes and if we stay here for long, we are going to fall back on our curriculum. Both the Mages seemed different when he had first met them. If they had seemed like haughty nobles before, now they acted like school students who were requesting him to come to the dean''s office with them. He gave them a look before taking a seat. "Like before," he began, his voice steady, "I will decide when it suits me to travel to the Archine Tower. However, I will make it quicker for you if you address a few of my questions first." "Questions, my Lord?" Jacks stammered. "Indeed," Kai said, his gaze flickering between them. "Let''s start with a simple one. How would you two rate your magical prowess compared to the other mages at the Archine Tower?" - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 64. Magus Veridia Unlike Kai''s expectations, the two Mages didn''t obfuscate or puff out their chests. Instead, they met his gaze with a strange mix of pride and shame in their words. "We are apprentice Mages, Lord Arzan," Klan admitted, his eyes running towards the floor and back at Kai. "We are not under the tutelage of a master yet and mostly have been taught everything in the general magical theory classes." Jacks grunted in agreement, his burly frame seeming to shrink under Kai''s scrutiny. "We wouldn''t call ourselves weak," he offered a touch defensively. Since our strength within the tower lies at the lower middle range among the apprentices." Though, it should change since we are hoping to get a master soon and would get strong enough to become adepts in a few years, Klan added to Jacks explanation. A low-mid range apprentice. The words hung in the air, heavy with implication. If what he knew of the structure of Mage rankings stood there, it would mean both of them were at the second rank of a Mage journey. It wasn''t anything special since most Mages could be apprentices with time, effort and resources, but they were oddly weak even for an apprentice. They said they weren''t the worst out of the lot, so Kai wondered whether the training they had been given was simply shoddy or it had something to do with them not having a master yet. "Apprentices, you say," he said, his voice betraying none of his disappointment. "Then perhaps you could elaborate on the structure of the Archine Tower. How many Mages reside within its walls? How are they further divided?" Klan stepped forward, his shoulders squaring slightly. "Hundreds, Lord Arzan," he began, a flicker of pride returning to his voice. "Hundreds of Mages, most falling within the ranks of apprentice and novice." Kai leaned forward, his eyes narrowed. "And what of the more experienced Mages?" Jacks took over the explanation. Do you mean adepts?" he rumbled and continued once Kai nodded. "There are a scant three dozen adepts within the tower. Mage Actra was one of them. They are the backbone of the Archine Tower''s research and training. Most of them are going in and out of the tower, since after reaching the adept stage, their training becomes more specialized. A lot of them teach our classes, but I know a dozen who are mostly busy with the kingdom''s work or different expeditions. Some are also sent to nobles as temporary retainers as part of an agreement of the tower and the kingdom. Kai knew Jacks was hinting at Actra from the last line, but he ignored it. Three dozen adepts were around the number he had expected and although he would have liked it if there were fewer of them, there was nothing he could do. "And beyond that?" Kai pressed. Does the tower store any savants and Mages beyond that rank? Who exactly runs it?" Klan and Jacks exchanged a glance, a silent communication passing between them. Then, they both nodded and explained. "On the very pinnacle," Klan said, "stands the council. There are eight members and each of them is an exceptional Mage in their own right, renowned across the land. They are the ones who guide the tower''s direction and are the strongest Mages in the kingdom." Kai''s eyes flashed, a spark igniting within him. "How many of them are savants?" he pressed his voice firm. I''m pretty sure the council will have a few of them." Klan puffed out his chest, a hint of pride colouring his cheeks. "Three, Lord Arzan!" he declared. "Three esteemed savants, each wielding the power of a fourth circle Mage!" Savants won''t be easy to deal with. Kai sighed inwardly. Having three savants meant that the tower had considerable strength and he wouldn''t be able to deal with them at his current stage. Though, he needed more information before forming a plan. "And what of the Tower Master?" Kai continued, his gaze unwavering. "The one who leads this council?" Jacks cleared his throat, stepping forward. "The Tower Master," he began, his voice dropping to a reverent whisper, "is Magus Veridia. One of the few Magus in the world, a 5th Circle mage. I''m pretty sure you must have heard of her." A fifth circle Mage. Kai barely hid his frown as he heard it. He forced himself to focus, pushing aside his growing unease. "And this Magus Veridia," he said, barely managing to keep his frown at bay. What do you know of her? Is she in the tower a lot?" Klan and Jacks exchanged a hesitant look. She is there, but we see her rarely," Klan admitted. "Magus Veridia is deeply involved in her research. Most of her time is spent within her private quarters." Kai nodded. If that was the case, then he doubted he was going to cross paths with her anytime soon. When he had regressed to this era, he had guessed that magi would be around since the mana density was so high. It had been the rank he held when he had regressed and back then, he was the only magus in the world left. His master had been the last one before him and he had only heard of a few others in records deep in the library. So, hearing that a few magi were around the world really set in the fact that he would have to deal with completely different things from now on. At the same time, it gave him a lot of curiosity to check out the tower for himself. "And what about training?" he demanded in a sharp voice and moved on with his questions. "The combat abilities you displayed during your first day here lacked any sharpness and finesse, to say the least." Both Klan and Jacks bristled at his words, their faces flushing a deep red. "But but we are not trained for battle, Lord Arzan!" Klan sputtered. "Our focus is on spell theory and" You both are second-circle Mages and not trained for battle?" Kai interrupted, his disbelief colouring his tone. "How is that even possible?" "Obviously," Klan sputtered, his voice laced with indignation. "We can''t partake in battle training yet! We''re still apprentice Mages, focused on getting our foundation" Kai cut him off with a raised hand, a frustrated sigh escaping his lips. He understood that the Mage ranks were the same in this era and the novices and apprentices focused more on theory classes and research. But second circle Mages, wielding a significant amount of raw power, and yet completely untrained in combat? It defied logic. There was something fundamentally wrong with the Archine Tower''s approach. He opened his mouth to speak, a scathing retort forming on his tongue, but then stopped himself. Dwelling on their shortcomings wouldn''t solve anything. A gnawing suspicion was on the back of his mind, but he ignored it. "So," he said, his voice regaining its composure. Is Magus Veridia the one we''ll be meeting at the tower?" Klan and Jacks exchanged another hesitant glance, a flicker of worry clouding their eyes. "We don''t think so," Jacks finally admitted. "The summons compel your presence, but whether the Magus herself will be present, it''s uncertain and highly unlikely. Likely, a member of the council will be there to investigate and, well interrogate." Kai nodded, a grim understanding settling over him. Interrogation. It seemed his initial assumptions about their visit weren''t entirely off the mark. "I see," he muttered, his mind racing with possibilities. As if sensing his thoughts, Klan spoke up, a hint of curiosity lacing his tone. "Now that you''ve awakened your magic, Lord Arzan," he began. "You''ll understand the weight Mages hold. Youll get to know everything about being in power. The Archine Tower is an official institution of the kingdom, and by law, all Mages must eventually make their pilgrimage to the tower." "A pilgrimage?" Kai raised an eyebrow. "That''s what you call it?" Jacks cleared his throat. In a way, yes, he rumbled. You have been summoned for interrogation, but at the same time, the tower would probably assess you and register you no matter the outcome of the investigation. Though it''s rather strange you haven''t been summoned sooner. Traditionally, Mages are assessed quite early in their development when they awaken." Klan shot Jacks a warning glance, but it was too late. Kai shook his head, pushing the revelation aside for now. He couldn''t care less whether the tower wanted to register him as a Mage or a criminal. He had enough questions swirling in his mind. "Enough inquiries for now," he declared, his voice firm. Are we going to leave for the tower then? Not yet, he said and the Mage''s face fell. Before they could say anything, he added. Rest assured, my trip to the tower will happen soon. I simply have a few things to take care of in my territory and then, we can leave for the tower. Give me a few days. Klan and Jacks looked at each other, a hint of relief washing over their features. We would wait till then. *** Kai sat at the head of the table. Around him, Killian and Francis sat among a few other people. One of them was Phillips, the gruff hunter who sat rigidly in his chair, his usual gruff demeanour replaced by a haunted silence. Two others were Feroy and Nelson who had taken time out to participate in the meeting. "The situation is dire," Kai began, his voice heavy with the weight of the news. "The hunters and Francis probably already told you about it. I, myself, have confirmed it too. A beast wave is indeed coming, and it will reach the estate in three months." Three months. The word hung in the air like a death knell. Killian was the first to break the silence. "Three months," he repeated, his voice hoarse. "That''s that''s not enough time." Phillips grunted in agreement. "Tracks don''t lie," he rumbled. "These things take time to mobilize. Three months is a fair estimate. We''re seeing the early signs and as time goes on, there will be more attacks on the villages and the city before the wave truly arrives." Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Francis offered a tentative nod. "From the records we''ve studied," he chimed in. Most beast waves take three to four months to fully gather and attack. Three months is a safe bet." Kai placed a document on the table, his eyes roaming around the room and coming back to the document. "Safe or not, that''s the time we have. And here''s what we know," he continued, pushing the document towards them. "Based on what I gathered with a spell of mine, these are the species confirmed to be participating in the wave." A hush fell over the room as everyone leaned forward, their faces paling as they scanned the document. Kai watched their reactions, feeling their heart sinking with each passing second. Listed here, in stark black and white, were the names of creatures that sent shivers down even the most seasoned warrior''s spine. Goblins, trolls, arsonic bears, Killian muttered, his voice trembling at the last part. The first two have a sizeable population around and arsonic bears are extremely tough to handle and could conjure up flames around their paws. There are also stalker hawks," Francis added, his voice devoid of its usual cheer. "Those monstrous birds are few in numbers, but we are hardly equipped to deal with them." Kai had already gone through the list and most of the species listed ranged from Grade 1 to Grade 3. There were also those who were leaders of a monster tribe like the goblin lord he had fought before. With everything, he knew they were going to have a hard time with each of them. Feroy shook his head, slammed his fist on the table but quickly regained his posture. "Even with every Enforcer and guard we have at our disposal," he said. "We can''t hold back a wave of creatures like these! There''s no way we can survive!" Kai steepled his fingers, his gaze meeting each of their eyes in turn. "That''s why I called this meeting," he said, his voice steady despite the rising panic in the room. "If there''s no chance of survival, we make one. There''s no other choice." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 65. Preparations After Kai''s words left his lips, he glanced around the table where maps of the city and surrounding lands were spread, littered with markers and curious looks. S~ea??h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A moment of silence passed, and another. He briefly expected one of them to talk, but it seemed like they were waiting for him. Taking the charge, he began, looking at Killian. "Alright, let''s start with the guards. Killian, could you give us a headcount? How many men do we have at our disposal?" Killians hand came to his face as he briefly thought about the question. "We have a solid force, Lord Arzan," he replied. "Around two hundred guards including the five Enforcers, men trained to defend the city walls. I have been constantly getting more and more guards into our ranks after the larvae extermination and we have doubled our forces in the last few months." Kai nodded slowly. "Around two hundred as an estimate. Even if we double that number through training civilians, it still seems insufficient." He gestured towards the map, his finger tracing the path of the incoming beast wave. "The sheer number of creatures involved makes me believe that we severely lack numbers. From the report I showed you, hundreds of spiders would be attacking us and with different species involved, two hundred men would never make it." "Exactly Lord Arzan," Francis said, agreeing with Kai. "It would take around three men just to deal with one spider. A sombre silence fell on the room once again as Kai''s mind ran a mile searching for solutions. Though, he had no idea how to go with it. The only connections he had in the world were in the city currently and he had no one to request help from. Maybe they could try for mercenaries like the last time, but that would severely put them in debt and mobilising so many mercenaries seemed beyond their current capabilities. As he thought more and more, something clicked in his mind. Francis, there have been cases of beast waves before in the Lancephil Kingdom right? Yes, my lord. What happened in those? Did the king intervene? Unlike what he had expected, Francis'' eyes dimmed further at his question. The king intervenes normally. But, not directly, Lord Arzan. Typically, in cases of beast waves, the closest Duke or Marquis household takes charge of the defence. They have larger armies, more resources, so it''s a norm for them to defend against them and show how strong they are." Killian let out a snort, a harsh sound that echoed in the room. I have heard of a few beast waves, mostly stories but also some real accounts. Most nobles would flee the city alongside the civilians. Though, it''s not out of the ordinary for a few of them to leave the civilians behind to hold back the beasts for a while till they could get to safety. Feroy nodded. Yes, I travelled a bit as a merchant''s guard a few years back and it''s not always that nobles would get the hint of a beast wave early on. Some of them strike them out of nowhere. Francis coughed to bring back attention to him and continued his explanation, That''s the traditional course, Lord Arzan. The kingdom, of course, intervenes in haste if the situation becomes truly dire. They send more Mages, even a contingent of the Royal Army. In rare cases, we''ve even heard of savants leading the charge." The thought of Archine Tower helping him out with the beast wave was funny to him since they seemed to be out for him, but if he could really get help from them, he didn''t mind being a little nicer during their inevitable meeting. For now, it seemed like he might very well be able to let the Duke handle the situation. Very well, we should send the plea and prepare to evacuate the citizens to the Duke''s territory, he said and noticed Francis'' eyes losing more colour. Yes, Lord Arzan. I already sent an official letter of plea to Duke Lucian, your brother attached with a report of everything we have found and our civilian numbers. Kais eyes raised and he internally grimaced. So, his response? Francis''s shoulders slumped, a defeated sigh escaping his lips. "The messenger returned just this morning, Lord Arzan. Apparently, Duke Lucian well, he suggested we ''deal with it ourselves'' or ''petition the kingdom directly for assistance.'' He claimed a need to gather more information and ''assess the severity'' of the beast wave before committing any reinforcements." Kai felt a cold anger simmering within him. Arzans own brother, the newly appointed Duke of the region, turned a blind eye to the impending disaster. Didn''t Lucian understand that if the beast wave ravaged Veralt, it wouldn''t stop there? It would continue its rampage, engulfing their lands eventually. Killians frame tensed with frustration voiced the question that hung unspoken in the air. "Why will Lord Arzan''s broth Im sorry, the Duke shirk his responsibility? Surely he understands the consequences of a full-blown beast wave? His territory would be on the line too." Francis, his gaze downcast, offered a bitter chuckle. "Perhaps he sees Veralt as a buffer, Killian. A way to gauge the true strength of the beast wave before committing his own forces. Or maybe," he added, his voice taking on a cynical edge. "He''s banking on the kingdom stepping in and saving the day, leaving him unscathed. In other words, waiting for Veralt to be destroyed." Kai couldn''t help but frown. From the journals he found, it was evident that Lucian wasnt very fond of his powerless brother, but again, Arzan seemed invisible to Lucian at different points during his writings. It all seemed like Arzans family wanted him to be gone for good. He didn''t know the reason for the growing hatred, especially when he was already out of the race for succession. That was over and for someone like Lucian, Arzan would be nothing, but a small noble now. Regardless, the ignorance and the response to the request was unnecessary. There were too many lives at stake for him to hold some petty grudge against him. Kai sighed. Thinking it through, he realised that he was again back on the starting line with no allies and not enough strength to deal with the beast wave himself. If that was the case, then it was better to focus on what he had. We can''t rely on Duke Lucian''s supposed generosity here, he said, his voice stern. We wash our hands and prepare to our best. Focus on what we can control. Phillips, gather every hunter in the territory. We need their keen eyes and knowledge of the wilds. Take a few guards and turn them into our scouting party. I need every bit of information you can gather." Phillips nodded curtly. He seemed like the oddest person in the room, but as Kai looked at him, he flinched and agreed. Even if he didn''t work for Kai, he understood that a beast wave meant the end for them. So, with no option, he could only do his way alongside the other hunters. "Francis," Kai nodded back and continued. "Spread the word to all village heads. The beast wave is coming, and they need to prepare their people for evacuation. We''ll need temporary shelters within Veralt''s walls." Francis''s eyes widened. "Shelters, Lord Arzan? That would require a significant amount of resources and." Kai cut him off. "We''ll make it work. Get the people mobilized, and have them start constructing basic shelters. If it comes down to it, citizens can share their homes. If it becomes worse, well extend the shelters of the castle. It will be a temporary hardship, but one we must endure." A silence took over their discussion hearing the last part of his sentence. Kai felt more than one odd look towards him. Do you have any objections? He asked and everyone quickly shook his head. No, Lord Arzan! Nodding, he continued. "And Killian, we need more guards. Double our current force. We''ll train every able-bodied citizen who''s willing to fight." Feroy looked in between Kai and Killian for a few seconds and broke the silence he carried for quite some time during the discussion. Are we truly considering such a fight, Lord Arzan? Shouldn''t we just evacuate everyone?" Killian let out a frustrated growl. "Feroy, have you lost your mind? We can''t just abandon the city! The walls, the supplies everything we''ve built would be lost!" Before Feroy could respond, Kai raised a hand, silencing them both. "Feroy, I won''t ask civilians to fight. My priority is their safety. We''ll work on a detailed evacuation plan. But as Lord of Veralt, I cannot simply walk away. This city is my responsibility, and I will defend it to my last breath." Even if he hadn''t been the original lord, he had gotten a connection to the place and was finally looking forward to changing it for the better. However, his love and responsibility for the city weren''t the only reason behind his decision. "Even if we evacuate as many civilians as possible if Veralt falls, the entire region falls. Lucian controls everything around us, directly or indirectly. Running wouldn''t guarantee safety with him in charge since he clearly is unwilling to help. Fighting is my only choice here." He paused, rethinking his own choice of words. The lot present seemed to be thinking something in their own minds, including Francis, whose eyes were looking at him in admiration for a few seconds before plastering on the map. Deciding to make sure no one would doubt his decision, he insinuated it again. I know it''s risky, but it''s the only way," he said. "We train, we strategize, and we fight like cornered wolves. And let me assure you," he added, turning towards Feroy with a smile, "I don''t enter fights I believe I can''t win." Feroy met his gaze, his eyes hardened and lips thinned, replacing the earlier doubt that was on his face. Yes, my Lord," he said. I wouldn''t doubt you for a second." The meeting continued without any obstacles after that. Different questions were brought up, solutions were given and discussions were made. They strategized, they planned, and they poured over maps. It was impossible to figure out everything at once since there were so many variables present. Still, they did their best until a bigger hurdle emerged the city walls. Francis, his brows furrowed, voiced the problem. "Lord Arzan," he began, his voice laced with trepidation. "Even with the most valiant defence, our walls are our biggest weakness. They''re sturdy, yes, but not built to withstand a full-blown beast wave. I have no doubt they are going to crumble at the first sight of the attack. What are we going to do about them?" *** A biting wind whipped at Kai''s face as he stood atop the ramparts of Veralt, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. Below him, the clang of hammers echoed. Workers scurried along the partially rebuilt wall and gate, sweat covering their clothes and faces focused on the tasks at hand. After the Arachne spider attack, the reconstruction began the very next day since they couldn''t afford to leave it any longer. It was slow, but work was progressing well enough. Killian, looking in the same direction as Kai, stood beside him and brought his attention back from the horizon. "They''re working tirelessly, Lord Arzan," Killian said, his voice barely audible over the wind. "The new gate will be complete by the next full moon, if not sooner." Kai nodded, his eyes scanning the rolling hills that stretched towards the dark expanse of the forest. "In two months," he said, his voice heavy with an unspoken weight. Those hills, those very roads they''ll be teeming with them, won''t they?" Killian let out a heavy sigh. "Yes, my Lord. It will be a veritable tide of fangs and claws." A desolate silence settled between them, the wind whistling a mournful tune. Kai felt the familiar tug of despair, but he quickly shoved it down. There was no point in thinking about the negatives. An old lesson from his master emerged in his mind and he did what he had always done. Think about the problem, accept that it was hard and let the worry pass from his mind to think about the solution. As he took a breath while letting the fear pass, he felt much better. "Even with these walls," he said, his voice hardening. "Even with reinforcements, we are still vulnerable. These beasts can break through stone like it''s butter." Killian offered a tentative smile. "True, Lord Arzan, but we have the advantage of surprise. We''ll be ready for them. We''ll fight with everything we have, and we''ll we''ll win." Kai allowed himself a flicker of a smile, a ghost of amusement dancing in his eyes. These walls can be broken easily, Killian, you still believe that? That we can win? For a moment, Kai could see something flicker in Killians eyes, but he quickly masked it to the neutral, stern look on his face. I do believe that, Lord Arzan. Kai let his words linger for a brief moment before giving a nod and turning towards the mason. Let''s hope your words stand. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 66. Warding Barret, was it? he questioned the mason who looked up at him before bowing low. He was a short, bulky man with a moustache that suited his face. Kai had called for him when he had come to inspect the repairs. Yes, your lordship. That''s my name, the man said with a rough voice. If the stones he was wrestling into submission had a voice, Kai was sure it was this mans voice. The progress, Barret How is it going? Kai questioned as he looked at his calloused palms that rubbed together. He seemed nervous by shifting from one foot to another, but by this point, he didn''t know many people who wouldn''t be anxious in his presence when meeting him for the first time. "Progress on the gate and wall is good. We''ll have it secured and operational before the next full moon, Lord Arzan, even sooner if the weather holds, he said, his voice rising in confidence by the end of his sentence. Kai nodded, his gaze sweeping over the scene below. Workers hammered at stubborn stones, their clanging forming a counterpoint to the shouts of foremen and the creaking of carts laden with building materials. It was quite the sight of frantic construction for what was broken during the spider attack. But Kai''s eyes focused beyond the immediate hustle, his gaze drawn towards the distant hills fringing the forest. "Good," he said, his voice betraying none of the disquiet that gnawed at him. "And how do you feel the walls are holding up, Barret? Sturdy enough to withstand the elements and other challenges?" A bead of sweat trickled down Barret''s temple despite the morning air. He straightened, puffing out his chest in an attempt to project confidence. "Sturdy, aye, Lord Arzan. We used the finest granite, reinforcing the foundation they''ll stand strong for years to come." Kai''s lips curved into a faint smile. "Years, you say? Excellent. Then tell me, Barret, could your walls handle a few hundred monstrous monsters like those spiders all at once?" Barret''s face drained of colour, the facade melting away to reveal a flicker of raw fear in his eyes. He swallowed hard, "A few hundred Lord Arzan, that''s that''s an impossible number! We wouldn''t the walls wouldn''t hold against even half of that!" Kai tilted his head. "No, I figured not. That''s why I wanted to have this conversation." Confusion clouded the mason''s features. But before he could voice his inquiry, Kai continued, his voice dropping to an urgent tone. "In three months, a beast wave unlike any we''ve seen before is going to crash down on our doorstep. Hundreds, maybe thousands of ravenous creatures will descend upon the estate. We need to be ready, Barret." Barret''s eyes widened as he spoke of a big revelation, taking in the urgency in Kais voice. "A b-beast wave, my lord?" Barret stammered, his voice barely a whisper. Kai nodded. Yes, that''s why, we need to focus on the walls. Can you reinforce them enough to withstand such an attack? Reinforce them beyond their original design, so at least it could withstand the assault." The mason stood rooted to the spot. Kai knew it was a daunting task, a near-impossible feat to accomplish in the meagre time they had. But they had to do something. According to Francis, the walls wouldn''t even stay still with a few dozen of the spiders and would start to crack. He did not doubt it since he had seen three spiders easily getting past them. Barret chewed his lip, a deep frown crawling itself onto his forehead as Kai waited for an answer. "No," he finally admitted, his voice heavy with regret. "It''s too much of a change too short a notice. We can''t we can''t rebuild the entire wall in a few months." He paused for a moment and looked right into Kais eyes. "But We can make it stronger. We can patch the cracks, and fill them with mortar and the sturdiest granite we can find. We can smooth out any weaknesses, make sure no part of the wall juts out and becomes a vulnerable point." Kai thought about his words. Repairing the weak parts would be good, but it still wouldn''t hold long enough against a beast wave. As he looked over the walls, an idea surfaced in his mind, recalling a painting he had seen in a book once. It was one of a king who was defending the capital against the troops of a foreign king. The walls of the capitals were tall and sturdy, but they had extra protection against anyone who tried to scale the wall. Crenellations? How about that? Jagged sections along the top will make scaling the walls a nightmare for any beast foolish enough to try. We don''t know how many of those could climb our walls, so that would protect us, Kai said, looking back at the mason. Barret nodded immediately. "Yes, Lord Arzan. I could work on them. Those would be simple enough to do if I have enough workers." But Kai wasn''t finished yet. "And what about raising the wall itself, Barret? Couldn''t we add a few extra feet to its height?" Barret''s face fell. A frown creased his brow as he ran a calloused hand through his moustache. "Adding height, Lord Arzan? That''s a monumental task. We''re already stretched thin on time and manpower. Rebuilding the entire wall to a greater height it''s simply not feasible in three months." Disappointment flickered in his eyes, but he quickly concealed it. "Not the entire wall, perhaps," he said after thinking about it. "But could we raise sections of it at strategically placed intervals? That would create a staggered defence, make it harder for the beasts to swarm over the wall in one go." The mason''s eyes narrowed in thought. "Sections, you say? He asked, then touched his chin in thought. Yes, that''s a possibility. We could focus on the most vulnerable points, create a sort of uneven wall, a maze for the beasts to navigate." A hint of a smile played on Kai''s lips. This was progress. They were thinking outside the box, adapting their strategy to the limited time they had. Yet, even as a flicker of hope ignited within him, a nagging doubt persisted. Would these fortifications, impressive as they might be, be enough to withstand the fury of a full-blown beast wave? He leaned closer to the rough stone of the wall, his fingers trailing along the cool surface. Was there something more they could do, some hidden potential he was overlooking? He cast a questioning glance at Barret, searching for any further suggestions. The mason, however, shook his head, a grimace twisting his features. "There''s only so much we can do with stone and mortar, Lord Arzan. We can reinforce, we can adapt, but ultimately, we can''t change the whole foundation in a few months" he trailed off, his voice heavy with unspoken worry. Kai knew he was right. Yet, as he continued to stare at the imposing wall, a sudden thought struck him. He straightened up, his eyes gleaming. A part of him didn''t know if his idea was feasible, but he knew it was better than just letting the walls be. "Barret," he said, "I have another request. Can you create gaps along the wall at specific intervals? Gaps large enough to fit a good-sized stone?" Barret blinked, his brow furrowing in confusion. "Gaps, Lord Arzan? Why, that would just create weak points! It would look like a series of cracks in the wall." Kai smiled. "Not weaknesses, Barret," he corrected. "Opportunities. Those gaps will power up the whole wall, giving them more fortifications. I plan to use enchantments into the walls to create a sort of magical barrier around them. And to fuel those enchantments" he paused, and looked at Killian, "we''ll need Atheum." S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Killian immediately frowned. The idea of enchantments is good, Lord Arzan. But wouldn''t it be simpler to just use Syphon stones? They suck the mana right out of the air." Kai chuckled but quickly masked it. Killian was being serious by his expression. "They syphon mana slower than a snail on sleeping pills, and they''re not as stable. One wrong twitch and boom! Instant fireworks display, minus the pretty lights." Killian grimaced, surely the image of a self-detonating wall painting a vivid picture in his mind. "Fair enough," he said. "So, Atheum it is then? But would you be able to enchant them and connect them to the walls?" Kai nodded. "They''re not ideal. But they can be a conduit, a channel for the magic to flow. We can create a small cavity within the gaps I mentioned to Barret, and embed a mana stone within it. The enchantment itself will be on the walls and be a real challenge." He rubbed his temples, the weight of responsibility pressing down on him. Defensive enchantments were a dime a dozen, but most were little more than a glorified armour that might protect half a blow more from a raging beast. He needed something more, something potent enough to join with the enchantments and make it so that they could work well with each other. As he thought and thought, his mind moved back to his days in the Sorcerer''s Tower and how his master had explained the spell wards that protected them from getting discovered by the mana fiends. Other than those, there were also the defensive ones, reinforcing huge walls. In them, he would be able to make up a few of them that stretched long enough to cover walls. Maybe he could connect those with the enchantments and then join them to the Atheum which would power both of them up. The complications were numerous and he had never thought of using enchantments and wards together, but if he was able to pull it over, it could make sure the wall stayed intact for a bit longer. The headache turned to an unavoidable throb as his mind wandered deep into the task at hand. He was only brought back from his thoughts when Killian touched his shoulders. Lord Arzan! Ah, yes? He looked at him. I was asking a question and you seemed to have lost yourself in thoughts, Killian said, giving him a worried stare. Oh, what was your question? I wanted to know what is a firework. Is it some kind of a weapon? Kai blinked his eyes. *** The morning breeze ruffled Lucian''s raven hair as he stood on the top floor of his castle, gazing out over his sprawling domain. Below him, peasants toiled in the fields, their figures bent in silent labour. A satisfied smile pulled at his lips. This land, these people, all belonged to him just like he had dreamt ever since he was a child. Many had tried to take it away from him, and many had gotten close, but his obsession had managed to not let them get away with it. He had done everything he was asked to and had gone way beyond it just to prove that he was the one deserving to be the heir. Now, he had no one to prove anything as everything was his. Only his. Suddenly, his reverie was shattered by the arrival of his ever-present butler, Rubert. The man bowed in front of him, respectfully and with a hint of fear in his eyes when he looked up. "Your Grace," he announced in a monotone voice, "Lord Arzan''s envoy departed two days ago, after reiterating their request for assistance." Lucian''s smile vanished, replaced by a scowl. "Assistance? Do you think Arzan even deserves the gall to be called a Lord?" He spat the title like a rotten grape. Rubert remained silent, his training holding him back from voicing any opinion. Lucian noticed it and laughed loudly, "Ah, Rubert," he said, clapping a hand on the butler''s shoulder. "You know why I keep you around. It''s your unwavering loyalty. Always a breath of fresh air in this snake pit of a world. Sadly, people like Arzan dont possess that quality and aren''t meant to achieve anything." Lucian took a few paces away, his gaze returning to the distant fields. "It''s strange, isn''t it? I drive him away from my lands and he returns, begging for scraps from his brother. To his credit, I had expected Veralt to collapse by now. It seems like he had managed to delay it a bit. I did get a few interesting reports. He paused. "Though that won''t last much longer, with the beast wave looming like a storm cloud." Rubert shifted nervously. "Your Grace," he ventured hesitantly. "Wouldn''t it be risky to let the wave reach Veralt? What if" Lucian cut him off with a sharp laugh. "What if it spills over onto my lands, you mean? Oh, Rubert, you and your worries. Fear not, the beast wave will be dealt with, decisively and with great fanfare after it crumbles Veralt into pieces. After all," he declared, his voice ringing out with a touch of theatricality. "Saving the day would let these peasants know who is in charge. It''s always important to remind them of that." He said the last part of his sentence with a flourish. Then, he turned back to the butler "Now, tell me, Rubert," he said, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous tone. "What do you think I despise most?" Rubert, pale under his starched collar, stammered for a response. Lucian didn''t wait for him to answer. With a swift backhand, he slapped the butler across the face. It resounded in the air, a few guards standing around flinching. The old butler barely stopped himself from falling to the ground and promptly lowered his head. "Concern for family, Rubert! That''s my cardinal sin. Only I get to decide when and how I help my brother, if ever. And it will be on my terms, not his. When he comes begging, I will hear him out and see if he still had an eloquent tongue that he could beg well with." He clapped Rubert on the shoulder once more and strode away, not caring a bit about the trembling butler. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 67. Instinctual technique Despite the citys desperate straits that Kai had to manage and butt himself in now and then, he hadnt neglected his training. The pale dawn mist clung to the training grounds, slowly disappearing under the first rays of the rising sun. The air was crisp but warming up gradually. Usually, he would have been sparring with Killian or running laps around the ground, but there was a change in the routine today. His spear was on the ground and his palm crackled with a tiny, swirling flame. "Ready, Killian?" Kai''s voice echoed across the training field. There was a hint of a challenging tone in his voice as he directly looked at Killian, who stood opposite him. The knights eyebrows were knit together in deep focus. His lips formed a thin line as he awaited Kais attack. It had been quite some time since Killian had awakened as an Enforcer and compared to others, he had done the best, slowly getting a hang of cultivating and learning how to enforce his body with mana. His movements have gotten controlled and more precise than before and he even looked younger. A part of it had to do with the fact that the man rarely took breaks. Whenever Kai would look for him, he would either be training, teaching, making rounds of the city or cultivating. Most of the time, it would be the last thing since according to him, it was an addiction that was improving his body. Kai had let him be since it was one of the effects cultivation had on Enforcers. Unlike Mages, they could directly feel their bodies becoming stronger and faster day by day, gaining a sense of pleasure out of it. He had never seen the man as a cultivation junkie, but he now looked every bit of it. Today when they walked into the training ground, Killian had requested to do some movement training and Kai complied with it, wanting to know how fast he had gotten. Yes, Lord Arzan, came Killians response. Kai waited patiently, letting the heat in his palms and the anticipation build. All the while he shifted the flames back and forth between his two hands. Killians eyes didnt leave the fireball for even a second, not knowing when it would come his way. Finally, after seconds had built into minutes, he caught Killians momentarily distracted gaze. With a subtle motion of his wrist, Kai launched the fireball at him. It arced through the air in a flaming trajectory, leaving a trail of scorched grass in its wake. Killian didn''t flinch. Years of practised reflexes as a knight, honed further by training as an Enforcer, came into play. He took a single, measured step to the side, the fiery projectile passing harmlessly inches from his shoulder. A gust of wind roared past him just as quickly. Kai, wasting no time, had followed up the fireball with a well-timed [Gust] spell. But Killian, anticipating this move, pivoted on his heel, the wind whipping past him like a disappointed breeze. "Perhaps a bit more heat, Lord Arzan," Killian shrugged his shoulder with his hand. "And a touch more speed on those spells. We won''t be facing campfire embers when the beast wave arrives." Kai smirked. The familiar routine eased the tension that had been building within him. He channelled more mana, the fireball in his hand intensifying until it crackled with a fierce orange glow. This time, when he launched it, it was accompanied by a swirling vortex of wind, creating a miniature firestorm that hurtled towards Killian. A flurry of activity replaced the single attacks. Kai, his mind playing over and over Killian''s challenge, wove a tapestry of fire and wind. Bolts of fire rained down like meteors, each accompanied by a howling gust that threatened to knock Killian off his feet. The knight dodged with a grace that belied his massive build. Spins, ducks, and last-second leaps became a blur as he navigated the onslaught. "Impressive," Kai said with a grunt. Killian had certainly improved. "Your agility has improved by leaps. A few months back, I doubt you would have managed that." Killian, panting slightly, grinned. It was at these rare moments in the practice grounds, high with adrenaline that Killian broke into a grin, sometimes full-blown laughter when he was challenged enough. His usual stoic mask disappeared at such times the training ground seemed to be when he was mostly carefree and yet, serious in what he did. As the training continued, Kai thought more and more about how Killian really suited being a battle junkie. Kai let him take a breath and removed the spell structure from his palm. How was that? "Still not enough, Lord Arzan. I feel like I can do more. I feel like pushing myself today!" Killian said and got to his feet from the crouched position. When he stood up, bouncing from one foot to another, it was almost as if he hadn''t dodged at least twenty attacks in a row. His energy was still palpable. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Fortunately for him, Kai had a lot of mana remaining and he doubted he needed it for the day. So with a shrug, Kai unleashed his final blow. A dozen flaming arrows, conjured with a snap of his fingers, materialized in the air before streaking towards Killian like scorching asps. The sheer volume of attacks was impossible to dodge conventionally. Killian, recognizing this, let out a grunt. He dodged a few of them that came first, but with every second, more and more arrows rushed towards him, trapping him from moving. Killian dived to the left, but the arrows chased him. He yelled, closing his eyes as one of the arrows stood inches away from hitting his forehead. It was just then something out of the ordinary happened. Kai felt a rush of mana around him and in a blink, Killian vanished. Caught off guard, he widened his eyes as the spot where Killian stood moments ago was now empty. A beat later, a slightly singed Killian appeared beside him on the floor, a bewildered look on his face. His eyebrows were raised and his mouth gawked open like he couldn''t believe what had just happened. Kai took a few steps backwards. "Whoa, what in the nine hells was that?" Killian exclaimed, brushing soot off his jerkin as he stood up immediately. Kai stared at him, rethinking what just happened. The arrows vanished from the air as he looked around the ground before his eyes landed back on the bewildered knight. If he was right, Killian had performed a sudden, almost teleportation-like manoeuvre. "Did you use a lightning technique?" Kai asked. Killian frowned. "Lightning technique? What is that, Lord Arzan? Kai slapped his forehead, a mixture of amusement and exasperation washing over him. He recalled the thick stack of notes he''d painstakingly compiled on Enforcer stages and abilities. "Killian," he said, patting the knight''s shoulder gently, "Did you even read the notes I gave you?" Killian sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, I skimmed them" he admitted. Kai chuckled. "Right, then I hope you read through the important parts. As an Enforcer, you start learning techniques at the second stage. It is also the stage when you gain a deeper understanding of your elemental affinity. That little trick you just pulled? That seemed like [Lightning Step], a basic technique for Enforcers with an affinity for lightning." Killian''s jaw dropped. Kai could sense that the realisation was finally settling in. "[Lightning Step]?" he muttered, flexing his legs tentatively, looking down at them. Before he could delve deeper into this ability he seemed to have discovered just now, Kai bombarded him with questions. "Have you been feeling different lately, Killian? Any unusual sensations, or changes in your body?" Killian frowned, looking like he was searching his memories. "There is this tingling feeling in my chest," he admitted. "A constant thrumming, almost like" he paused, searching for the right words, "like a storm brewing inside me. It''s been bothering me a bit, but it calms down when I''m training. That''s why I even asked you to help me out with my movement training." "A storm, huh?" Kai mused, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "And how do you feel about lightning? Any experiences that come to mind? From any battle or even your childhood?" A flicker of memory sparked in Killian''s eyes. "Rain," he said, a nostalgic smile gracing his lips. "I''ve always loved storms. There was one time when I was just a boy, I saw a bolt of lightning strike a tree right in front of me. It was terrifying, yes, but also strangely beautiful. Never forget that image. Itd always come to my mind whenever I felt like I needed something to distract myself with." A smile split Kai''s face. "There you have it. That powerful memory, that connection you formed with lightning must have subconsciously influenced your affinity. Lightning is a rare element, Killian, and a powerful one at that. Itll do you well, I believe. Among the elements that Mages and Enforcers could use, few ones were far more offensive than others. Lightning was one of them and it was often an element Kai had liked. For an Enforcer, not only it would give an extra edge in their attacks, but they would also be extremely fast. The more he thought, the more the element seemed to suit Killian''s fighting style. As they continued their discussion, Kai gestured towards Killian''s leg. "So, the vault you''re currently cultivating is it the ankle?" Killian nodded. "Yes, Lord Arzan, that''s the one." "I see," Kai said. "The ankle vault focuses on agility and reflexes. Once you fully cultivate it, your [Lightning Step] will become like second nature, allowing you to react and manoeuvre with incredible speed." Each vault corresponded to a different part of the body and developed in such a way that gave Enforcers a lot of freedom on how they wanted to cultivate them. There was no set order Enforcers were able to cultivate them according to their fighting style and desired build. It was all about optimization, maximizing the enforcers potential. Kai had even heard of a few clans that would grow only a certain kind of build of Enforcers, letting them have an extremely strong band of warriors that would specialise in cultivating their vaults in a set order. As he thought about Enforcer clans, a frown creased Killian''s brow. "But how''d I do it, Lord Arzan? You yourself said you haven''t given me any battle or defence techniques, only cultivation exercises." Kai scratched his head as he thought back on the question. Since he had no idea about Enforcer techniques, he wasn''t able to write them down. He had seen techniques in action, but he didn''t know the principle behind them. He only knew that Enforcers were able to use body techniques and synergize them with their elements. Most of these were passed down from every generation. However, it wasn''t as if there were no exceptions. "Hmm, that''s a good question. I believe it''s innate. Enforcers are different from Mages. Mages are methodical, and all about intricate spells and formulas. You, on the other hand, are more like instinctual warriors. Your techniques can manifest based on raw power and a deep understanding of your element." "So, the thought of dodging your attacks, wanting to move like lightning itself that triggered the spark?" "Exactly." Kai snapped his fingers. "You focused on the feeling, the desire for speed, and your body responded. Now, the trick is to refine that instinct into a proper technique." Killian paused a moment, probably thinking of what he had felt during the training and how he could work with it. "I can do that, Lord Arzan. I''ll focus on that feeling, and develop a movement technique based on it. I would be able to get it with some practice hopefully." Kai nodded, clapping Killian on the shoulder. "Practice you''ll have, Killian. Just do as you said, focus on the feeling and develop a movement technique. It wont be easy but since we will be on the move soon, youll get enough time to think about it. On the move soon? Killian immediately asked. We''re leaving for the capital soon." Killian looked at him with surprise in his eyes. "The capital, Lord Arzan? I thought you had no intention of going with the Archine Tower Mages?" Kai smiled. You thought I would ignore the summon letter of a group of Mages that are one of the most powerful and political forces in the kingdom. I don''t think I would be able to stand against a Magus in my current stage. Those are entirely different beasts and could handle a dozen Actra on their own. Forgive me, Lord Arzan. Youve rarely listened to our suggestions in the past months. So, even this time, I thought you would be ignoring the summons. Kai winced internally. He wondered if he came across like that. He quickly brushed the thought aside. Actually," he said, his voice firm. There''s two reasons I want to go. Firstly, I need to get the Archine Tower off my back. I doubt they would take no for an answer, so I would meet their investigation and make sure they know what happened with Actra. We didn''t send a report with any lies, so we should be good. Also, we need to inform the Kingdom of the Beast wave since we aren''t getting any help in the region. I could do it while dealing with the investigation. What''s the second reason? Killian asked. We need to get more resources for the beast wave. He raised an eyebrow. "Resources?" "Indeed," Kai said, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Malden will be getting a shipment of construction materials for the wall rebuilding. But manpower will be tight. Francis and I discussed hiring some skilled workers from the capital. Other than the construction work, I was going to look into a blacksmith and alchemist." Blacksmith?" Killian echoed. "But what about old man Jeb? He''s been the castle blacksmith for years." Kai sighed. "Jeb''s a good man, Killian. But I''ve seen his work. He''s excellent at repairs and basic weaponry. What I need is very different. Let''s just say it requires a different skill set." "And an alchemist?" Killian inquired, his brow furrowing further. They are rare. I have only seen a few aside from you." "Exactly, that''s why we need to establish an alchemical workshop to attract more of them. Also, I need them before the beast wave hits. It''ll give us a significant advantage in terms of potions and supplies." Killian nodded in agreement, as his gaze drifted towards the distant horizon. "The Archine Tower is imposing, Lord Arzan. I don''t know how that would go since Mages are mostly aloof, but from the way those two Mages acted, I don''t think it would be a nice experience. Kai sighed and nodded. Even if the report they sent was true, some questions were going to be brought up as to how Kai had awakened and gotten so strong. He would have to deal with those and he doubted the Mage culture liked reasonable conversations over needless aggression going by how the two apprentices have acted. "Don''t worry, Killian. We''re not walking into this blind. I have a plan, and we''ll deal with the Tower accordingly. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 68. Heir? Kai, wearing a simple cloak, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Malden. Around them, a steady stream of figures unloaded the contents of a large sturdy carriage. A couple of guards, their hands heavy with crates filled with stones moved around the space with grunts and occasional growls when they picked the items up and carried them towards the warehouse. With sweat beading on their brows, Malden''s workers wrestled with long, cumbersome wooden beams. Lord Arzan, it feels like such a long time since I saw you. Maldens voice came loud amidst the noises of metal and manpower. The whole citys buzzing with the news of your victory against those monstrous spiders. I heard some vivid descriptions of your powers! About how you handled them so well. I couldn''t help, but stop to listen to a few workers on the wall share the story and how you rained down flaming arrows at them. His words flew from his mouth one after another, almost as if he had practised them before talking to him. Kai raised his hand, cutting him off shortly. Did you bring the herbs I requested in the letter?" Malden, momentarily deflated, slapped his forehead with a dramatic sigh "Ah, the herbs! Yes, yes, they''re all here, safely nestled in their own little crates. Though," he leaned in, "there was one I couldn''t acquire." A frown creased Kai''s brow. Since he had decided to head towards the capital, he knew he had to prepare well in advance and that''s why, he had ordered a few herbs from Malden to make a special potion. One that might help him out against the Archine Tower. "Which one?" Kai asked, hoping it was not one of the main ingredients. Malden cleared his throat and shrugged nonchalantly. "I think it''s called Blursage. His frown deepened and by how crestfallen Malden looked, he realised that the herb was important for Kai. It was the main herb he wanted due to its properties of clouding one''s mind. He had no idea if it was rare in this era, but it had been in his time because many groups and cabal intelligence networks would make good use of it. Why didnt you get it, though? Your reply mentioned that the herbs would be easy to find? Kai questioned straightaway. Malden wiped nonexistent sweat from his brow, his jovial expression replaced by a grimace. "Market''s been dry, Lord Arzan. Blursage isn''t exactly a popular request, and you know these types of herbs are taken by alchemists and nobles to wither away in their warehouses. I heard about the place where I could get them. But its too dangerous of a place to venture even if I hire our usual mercenaries. He thought for a moment on his own words, frowning as he scrunched his nose up. Large mercenary groups wouldn''t even touch the job until I gave them a hefty sum, so it was outside what I could manage." His words came out rather scared than anything. Kai wondered what the man was so scared about, but if it was really like that, then he did understand that he couldn''t let Malden use a large sum for his personal request. Why is it so? Is it located in a monster nest or a wasteland? No, Lord Arzan. Malden shook his head. Blursage apparently grows on a specific hilltop on the corner of Sylvian Enclave. It''s close to the main road that heads towards the capital. The problem is a nasty bunch of bandits around here. It''s a large pack, a militant force and with them there, it''s nigh impossible for me to get it without getting caught by them. Kai''s brow furrowed further. This was an unwelcome complication. Still, the alternative arriving at the capital without the Blursage was even worse. He doubted he was going to be as confident dealing with the tower without it. "Bandits, you say? How many are we talking about?" Malden winced. "Big group, Lord Arzan. Estimates range upwards of three hundred, and those are just the ones they''ve seen. Nasty bunch, ruthless and well-armed." Malden repeated the word nasty as if it was a moniker owned by them. Kai tapped his chin thoughtfully. The detour was a nuisance, but the capital was directly on the other side of these bandits. They were an obstacle he''d have to deal with eventually since growing bandit groups were a nuisance especially when they were next to his territory in the Sylvan Enclave. Besides, he had long since gotten over the threat of mere bandits, especially after reaching the third circle. Three hundred bandits, while a significant force, wasn''t insurmountable. "Alright, Malden," he said. "Since it''s on the way to the capital, we''ll take care of them. Consider it a pre-emptive strike." Malden''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Deal with them, Lord Arzan? But they''re" He trailed off, seeing the steely resolve that was present in Kais eyes. Arguing wouldn''t do any good. Kai was sure Malden knew better. You can either follow me, or I will go with necessary preparations to the capital. Your choice, Malden. Either way, I appreciate you finding the rest of the herbs, Kai said and gave a small nod. Malden immediately cleared his throat, trying to salvage the situation. "Well, that certainly changes things! In that case, we''ll be much better prepared. I already had Gorak and his team lined up for the trip to the capital, just in case. With them, your guards, and your formidable skills, Lord Arzan, we''ll secure that Blursage and be on our way in no time!" Kai gave Malden an impassive look. Although it was clear Malden wasn''t entirely sure about his decision, he was going with it. The man was a good salesman and knew where to put his money and trust in. Seeing his look, Malden coughed and turned away to look at the flurry of activity of the guards and workers. Kai followed his gaze and stared at the carriages. A sense of excitement bubbled in him since he was going to be exploring the rest of the world for the first time. Having already informed everyone of their impending trip to the capital, Francis was going to stay behind to manage the city and oversee the construction efforts. Killian and two more Enforcers were following them with a chunk of guards. Malden, too, would be accompanying them, as he had business dealings in the capital that conveniently aligned with their travel plans. It gave them more people, but it was a good thing since it would take a week to reach the capital and having a large number of people meant more protection. However, he was sure the bandit group Malden mentioned would love to take on them. As they stood there, Malden cleared his throat. "Forgive my curiosity, Lord Arzan, but what exactly do you need the Blursage for? Is it some special concoction to give the nobles in the capital as a gift?" Kai offered a noncommittal shrug. "Part of my preparations," he said simply. "I have a few things I need to attend to in the capital, and this herb is just a necessary ingredient." Malden''s eyes narrowed as he considered Kai''s words, searching for a hidden meaning. However, the shrewd merchant knew better than to pry further. With a nod of understanding, he scurried off to address the logistics of their journey. Leaving the bustle of the carriages, Kai made his way back towards the estate. As he moved closer to it, he felt eyes on him and saw the shadow of a silhouette on a window. He smiled and made his way towards that. He found Amyra nestled in a familiar spot, perched outside his study window, her brow furrowed in concentration. "Eavesdropping, were you?" he asked with a smile as she turned around to look at him. Amyra caught red-handed, let out a playful scoff. "Maybe, but I wasn''t able to hear anything from here," she mumbled, her cheeks flushing a light pink. I just saw the carriages and was interested. Also I heard about you going to the capital from Claire. Yes, I would be gone for three weeks, if not more. Amyra sighed, lowering her head at that. Kai waited for her to say anything and after a few seconds, she raised her head and asked, Can I come with you? I-I mean, the group to the capital? Kai''s smile softened. "As much as I''d love to, Amyra, this trip to the capital isn''t exactly a sightseeing tour. It''s serious business, and I wouldn''t be able to keep you safe or spend time with you." A small frown appeared on Amyra''s face. "But I can''t do anything without you. What will happen to our golem making?" she protested. Her voice slightly raised, but she straightened in her position, squaring her shoulders. I wouldnt know how to make golems alone or do anything here, Lord Arzan. Kai looked at her, trying to get an idea of how to please her. He was hard-pressed to bring her since he didn''t want to deal with the trouble of protecting her. They had made good progress and he was sure she was close to telling him more about the questions he had carried all this time in his mind. For now, he needed to make her understand that he wasn''t leaving her alone. "True, but dont fret it. My absence will be temporary. Besides," he added, a glint in his eye, "once I return, I''m bringing enough materials so we can start working on those larger golems I mentioned before." Amyra''s eyes lit up at the prospect, but she quickly hid it. Really? Yes. Besides, you could practise with the clay in the library till then. Three weeks would pass by very quickly. But what if you took more time? She asked, her voice trembling. Kai slowly moved his hands and patted her shoulders. She didnt turn his hand away. I promise I won''t. Just keep practising your shaping techniques. We''ll have a lot of work to do when I get back." Slowly, she nodded and smiled. Sar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. *** Kai''s eyes were closed, his breathing slow and measured. After dealing with the day''s activity and packing his stuff up for the journey, he returned to his room. He wasn''t just circulating his mana in the usual meditative pattern today. Since reaching the third circle, a new sensation had been brewing within him and he wanted to find out what it was. The third circle was a stage where Mages would exponentially increase their mana pools as well as gain good mastery over their spells and elements. One of the things that would happen in this stage was the discovery of a new affinity. It wasn''t a given as every Mage was different, but he knew this was what he felt in his core. Most Mages would have two to three major elemental affinities. However, not every one of them would reveal itself straight away. A lot of times Mages would also just focus on one element instead of trying to master more. Since unlike Enforcers, Mages could draw out power from various aspects of the world, the choices laid out to them were the major reason why they stood at the pinnacle of power. There were also minor affinities towards other elements, but these were barely whispers, incapable of fueling more than rudimentary first or second-circle spells. He was only able to use healing spells due to this and even then, he was far from being able to use them well enough. No matter how well he made the spell structure, it wasn''t easy to infuse the light affinity because he only had a minor affinity with it. Most Mages wisely focused on mastering their primary and secondary elements because of this reason. Kai had already confirmed his fire affinity, a blazing inferno that roared within him. The secondary element he had discovered was a gentle wind, a counterpart to the fire''s fury. It wasn''t as strong as his fire affinity, but it was good. He wondered if both these elements had carried over through his soul, but he had no proof of it. He had read no research about affinities being connected to the soul rather than the Mana heart. Though, at the moment, he cared nothing about it. Since reaching the third circle, a new presence had been making itself known, one that felt more potent than even the wind, coming close to the power he felt from his fire affinity. It was a presence Kai yearned to identify, to understand. Two affinities were strong, but he had already mastered both of them. A third one would let them grow in a different direction. But he knew the work he had to put in would be slow and concentrated. He focused deeper into his meditation, pushing past the familiar warmth of the fire and the refreshing caress of the wind. He searched for a spark, an echo in the vast canvas of his mana pool. It was like swimming in a vast lake, trying to reach the surface, then looking around to feel that connection that bothered him quite a few times these days. As he focused, a connection bloomed, a tendril of energy, unlike anything hed experienced before. He chased that tendril, his concentration deepening into a trance. He swam and swam deeper into the lake, running after it until he froze. Suddenly, an image flashed in his mind a woman with flowing white hair, her eyes mirroring his abyssal pupils stared at him. The way they dilated, almost made it seem like they were saying something. She enveloped him in a warm embrace, a whispered word escaping her lips, "My heir." The trance shattered, Kai''s eyes snapping open. His breath hitched. The room was no longer his familiar chamber. It was a world of white. Frost clung to the walls, the air laced with a biting chill. He reached up to touch his neck, the spot where the woman''s embrace had lingered. His fingers brushed against a sheen of ice. He looked down, not knowing what had happened or who that woman was. A hesitant smile touched his lips as his hand came down from his neck to rub against the other. His heart beat loudly as he tried his best to calm himself down. But was unable to do so for a long time. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 69. Kingdom politics Once ice was foreign to him and he couldn''t feel it but now, its sensation lingered in Kai''s consciousness. His mind replayed the moment it all happened over and over. The cold, the breath on his neck and the freezing touch he experienced he shook his head at that thought. It wasnt just a new element, it was a presence. The womans presence. The memory of her embrace, the warmth of her slender hands against the icy chill, sent an electric shiver down his spine. He''d never experienced anything like it. New elements could develop a connection, but what he had seen was completely out of the ordinary. Fire had always been a part of him, a raging inferno that resonated with his core and something he had always been familiar with. Ice, however, felt different. Distant, yet strangely familiar. Almost as if a long-dormant part of him had awakened. Kai sighed, his mind playing the scene of his awakening repeatedly. His mind brought it all back once again. The woman''s voice replayed in his mind, that single word C Heir. He knew it wasn''t about him. Kai knew that much and he had already gotten most of his master''s legacy. This was about Arzan. His entire lineage was shrouded in mystery, even if the duchy household was close to Veralt. He knew nothing of his parents, no tales of ancestors. He knew he was from a house of Mages from his diary, but what was the connection between him and the woman in the vision? Someone he knew in the past? Or something entirely different? Was this the reason he was poisoned? Because he had been an heir to something? There were only questions and hardly any answers. The frustration of not knowing enough was a bitter pill to swallow. He could move on from the facts if he knew related to his awakening, but It seemed like there was no luck there. Killian and Francis, loyal as they were, wouldn''t have a clue. Arzan was a loner, too oppressed by his inability to do things and Kai would be surprised if he had any friends if he did have, they were the only three because of his status as a Duke''s son and as soon as he had been kicked out, they had abandoned him. For an entire day, Kai pondered over it and tried to call back to the woman to find a little bit more, but he wasn''t able to. In the end, he pushed it out of his mind and focused on the important things. He had a journey to start and it was an important one. As for Arzan, there was always time to find answers. Either way, the ice element was his now and he doubted his fate would let him be without any answers. *** Outside the bustling estate, carriages lined up in a neat row. Kai stood at the head of the procession, his gaze fixed on the two Archine Tower mages fidgeting impatiently beside him. "Lord Arzan," Jacks, the taller one, began tentatively. "We''ve already informed the tower that we are heading back with you. Once we reach the capital, we''ll head straight there to report." His voice held a hint of nervous inquiry as if seeking Kai''s approval. Kai, however, remained impassive. His gaze darted from the Mages to the carriages, then back again. Okay," he finally replied, his voice devoid of warmth. We will do so. For now, get in the carriage and try to keep to yourself. We would be taking a slight detour but would reach the capital in time. If I need your help, I will call you two." The unspoken command hung heavy in the air. The second Mage, Klan bristled slightly. His lower lip twitched in what could have been a protest of not following his orders, but he quickly bit it back. The clear dismissal in Kai''s tone brooked no argument. With a resigned sigh, the taller Mage cleared his throat. "Of course, Lord Arzan. We wouldn''t want to delay the departure any further." They both gave a curt bow, their faces etched with a mixture of annoyance and disappointment. Kai, however, remained unfazed. Sit well and try not to bother anyone," he said curtly, his voice leaving no room for further discussion. The two Mages wasted no time. They scurried into the first carriage, slamming the door shut behind them with a disgruntled thud. A moment later, the carriage lurched forward, pulling away from the rest of the carriages. Kai watched them go, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips. He wasn''t interested in coddling these self-important mages. A few times they had tried to get close to him, obviously trying to curry favour due to the strength he displayed, but their demeanour when they first met told him everything he wanted to know about them. Kai swept his gaze across the assembled group. Beyond the carriages, Malden stood animatedly conversing with Goraks team and the other guards, Killian''s stoic figure looming beside them. As Malden finished his spiel, both he and Killian approached Kai. "Everything seems set," Killian said, glancing at the fluttering banner above the lead carriage. "The flag looks good, Lord Arzan." Kai followed his gaze. The banner, newly made at his request, flapped proudly in the morning breeze. Unlike most noble houses, with their centuries-old heraldry, Kai lacked a family crest. He couldn''t claim the faded glory of the previous Baron, nor could he ever wear the colours of the duchy household since it belonged to Lucian now. So, he''d tasked Francis with creating a new symbol. The resulting banner was a bold statement a majestic phoenix rising from a bed of dark ashes. Behind it, a golden sun stood, encompassing its glow everywhere. The image resonated deeply with Kai. It wasn''t just a phoenix, it was the Sorcerer''s Tower symbol, subtly adapted. The symbol meant rising no matter and the philosophy was a major reason why the Sorcerer''s Tower had stood for so long. He didn''t want to leave it behind, so at the first opportunity he had gotten, he had used it. After all, it was where he came from. Kai nodded at Killians words words without saying anything. "Everything seems settled, Lord Arzan," Malden said, wiping a stray bead of sweat from his brow. "Now then, Ill head to my carriage and you can enter yours with Killian as your guard." Kai raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips. Are you going to be alone in your carriage?" Malden nodded. I have a guard and he would be acting as the driver, so I was going to rest till we get to a spot to camp. You have nothing else to do? No, my lord. Then, hold on," Kai said, a glint in his eye. "There''s been a change of plans." Malden''s grin fell immediately. "Change of plans, you say, Lord Arzan?" he asked. "Is there something amiss?" Kai shook his head. "Not amiss, Malden," he corrected. "Just necessary. I have something important to talk to you about on our way. You will be travelling with me and Killian can act as the driver." His gaze flickered towards Killian, who stood straight with his neutral face, as usual. Killian immediately nodded at Kais words. Malden''s eyes darted between both of them, his brow furrowing in confusion. *** In the front of the carriage, Killian drove the horses through the roads, following the carriages containing the guards in the front while keeping an eye out on the side for anything suspicious. On the back, Malden fidgeted nervously on the plush seats, glancing out the window at the rapidly fading cityscape. His knees moved anxiously as if he was trying to calm his nerves. He cast a furtive glance at Kai, who sat across from him, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Relax, Malden," Kai finally said, his voice calm. "There''s no need to fret. I just thought it would be beneficial to discuss a few things before we reach the capital. It''s not related to you. I just want to know more about the landscape of things and you are the best person to come for information." Malden cleared his throat, seeming like a wave of relief washing over him. "Ah, of course, Lord Arzan. What would you like to know?" Kai leaned back in his seat, his gaze thoughtful. "Tell me about the capital, Malden. The political climate, the atmosphere, if you will." Malden''s eyes lit up. Politics was one topic that was a favourite for merchants, being both important and interesting for them to keep track of. Even in Veralt, Kai knew he tried to keep an eye out for any development. By how his ears perked up, he knew he had asked the right person. Royal politics is messy, to say the least right now, he said, carefully choosing his words. It''s like the calm before a storm. King Sullivan''s health is failing, everyone knows it, and with no clear successor named, it''s tense." Kai raised an eyebrow. "But isn''t there the first prince, Eldric? Surely he''s the heir apparent." In his fragmented memories of history, Eldric was one of the few written about a lot, so much so that even after thousands of years, his name was one of the staples in history. A major reason for it was his ushering the world into the Golden era of magic and gaining the moniker of the Mad King. Malden chuckled. "First prince, yes, but not necessarily crown prince. The King, bless his stubborn heart, hasn''t declared an heir yet. Hasn''t even hinted at it. Left the other two princes, Prince Thalric and Prince Aldrin, scrambling for power. It''s not a pretty sight from what I have heard." Has it been going on for long? Yes, it''s been dragging on for years, Lord Arzan," Malden lamented, shaking his head. "All three princes are good Mages and rulers in their own right, but the King remains stubborn as a mule. One would think he''d want to ensure a smooth transition, but no, he keeps everyone guessing because he can''t take a decision. Kai nodded thoughtfully. Political turmoil wasn''t something he was familiar with. One wouldn''t have a lot of time to engage in it when fiends were trying to kill you at every given moment, but he had read enough. Even in Arzan''s journal, he had seen how the succession of the duchy had progressed with lots of alliances and betrayals It was a tangled web of them that could easily destroy a nation if it continued for too long. "Tell me about the princes," he prompted. "Prince Thalric, Prince Aldrin, Prince Eldric who are they aligned with?" Malden launched into a full-blown gossip mode as he leaned forward. The rivalry between the princes only exacerbates the tension. Prince Thalric, the youngest, seems to have the military''s favour with his brash tactics and promises of glory. He had spent time dealing with the barbarians in the Northern lands and had plans of conquest. The middle one, Prince Aldrin is trying to curry favours with the nobility and due to his mother being the princess of the neighbouring Alparca Kingdom, he''s getting a lot of support on the borders, he said, licking his lips and moving onto the last one. Finally, Prince Eldric had been the quietest, but rumours are that he''s been trying his best to gain the attention of Archine Tower. The queen had been training him in politics since his childhood and he''s been brewing plots to destroy his rivals and take the throne for himself. Kai squinted his eyes at the last part. Archine Tower wasn''t something he recalled from history, but if it was the premier institute of magic in the kingdom, it made sense for Eldric to gain their support for the throne. "And the King, amidst all this chaos?" Kai inquired. "Lost in his own world, Lord Arzan." Malden sighed. He spends most days bedridden, leaving the kingdom to manage itself, or rather, mismanage itself. The competition for the throne has blinded everyone to the real threats C poverty''s on the rise, whispers of famine are spreading, bandit attacks are becoming more frequent, and even beast activity seems to be increasing Thinking of which Veralt is quite the different thing from all these." Why do you say so?" Kai asked with interest. He recalled asking something similar when they had first met, but now things were quite different. "Veralt." Malden shrugged. It is an oddity. While the rest of the kingdom seems to be crumbling, Veralt''s actually on the opposite path. You, Lord Arzan, with your initiatives, have shaken things up. People are working, there''s less hunger and I see a purpose in them as they try to grow. I believe the last few months have affected them and as you have shown your face around and done things for them, a lot of them think they could leave behind their miserable pasts. Kai allowed himself a small smile. If anything, this was a start and once the beast wave passed, he could do more with the city. "Speaking of factions, Lord Arzan, Malden said, bringing him out of his thoughts. With your new status as a Mage, I wouldn''t be surprised if one of the princes tries to recruit you once word reaches the capital." Kai frowned. "A mere Baron like myself wouldn''t be of much interest, would he?" sea??h th N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Malden snorted. "A mere Baron who''s a Mage, Lord Arzan? Don''t underestimate your worth. Just the Heat stones are enough for them to inquire about you, and with the rumours of your lineage well, let''s just say the princes will be very interested in having you on their side. Imagine they do so, then, which prince will you choose, Lord Arzan?" He asked the last part of the sentence with expectant eyes, trying to gauge his expression, but Kai remained calm. He pondered over the question but got no answer. It was clear with the history he knew as he knew what prince was going to succeed the throne, but Eldric was a controversial figure. For most of his good in investing in magical studies, he had put the world on the path of destruction. There was also too much bloodshed that Kai didn''t approve of. Hence, he shrugged. Probably no one. I would rather choose myself. His eyes went towards the evening sun as he answered. From the corner of his eye, he could see how Malden stared at him, bewildered and trying to make sense of his words. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 70. Barbarians (1) The creak continued ardently as the carriages wound their way through the grasslands. Tall grasses tickled the carriage undercarriage, feathery plumes brushing against the tall windows. From outside the window, Kai could see the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the rolling plains. He was getting restless after a day spent bouncing on hard seats. Occasionally peeking out from the window, his gaze swept across multiple landscapes he knew existed from the map. Here and there, copses of trees offered respite from the suns intensity, their branches providing temporary places for chirping birds. The air hummed with the lazy drone of insects as the evening crept in, it was a peaceful counter to the continuous rumble of the carriages that seemed to get annoying to the ears. Slowly, the twilight descended. The sky was painted pink and orange. The rolling plains gave way to a clearing, the terrain changing completely. As the carriages started to slow down, Kais eyes went from the window to Malden, who woke up from his nap due to a small jolt that erupted from the carriage. He almost laughed at Maldens face when he woke up, but quickly stopped himself as it was inappropriate to do so. Malden wiped his sleepy face as Kai looked outside to see a circular patch of ground that was in the middle of a ring of towering oaks. The carriages lurched to a halt. Did I sleep for the rest of the day, Lord Arzan? Maldens voice came raspy. Yes, let''s get out. We need to set up camp. A guard was quick to come around and open the door for Kai as he stepped outside. He was the first to get down after a few guards, and as soon as he did, he stretched his stiff muscles, letting the cool night air hit his skin. He looked around the clearing, his eyes adjusting to the fading light. A stream gurgled close by, its noise bringing peace to Kais ears as its surface reflected the last light of the setting sun. It was a good area to set up camp and there didn''t seem to be any beasts around. In the background, Killian barked orders. Tents were brought to the clearing, while some guards got in task to set them. Other guards started lighting up the fire pits. Kai gave an approving nod at Killian who walked towards him with what looked like a plan in his mind as his eyes kept darting back and forth between the trees and him. I believe I should go and hunt for tonight''s meal. I saw some fat boars when we entered the area. *** Two hours later, a fat boar meat sizzled over the fire. The chilly air filled with the mouthwatering meat aroma. After two hours of search, Killian and the mercenaries had managed to trail around the boar. Raven''s arrow had done half the job, making it easier for Killian to jump in and kill it completely. Now, they all had satisfied, relieved looks on their faces, and seated next to one another around the fire. The guards were talking with hushed voices as stories, embarrassing tales and jokes flew around. At times, Kai could hear guards gasping at the talkers words, or laughing at what was shared. Regardless, they all seemed to be enjoying being on the run. Even the mercenaries who had fought with the guards in the larvae nest and became familiar joined taking turns sharing stories and talking about anything and everything to add to the laughter. Malden, bustled about with his staff, tending to the people and making sure everyone had a full belly and a warm drink for the night. They all needed energy for the week''s journey and any bandits that might pop up, and one of the best ways to prepare for a fight was to rest. The two Archine Tower mages, however, stood out like sore thumbs. Klan and Jacks were standing behind the circle of guards, fidgeting their fingers and looking at the people talking awkwardly. Even their finely woven robes looked out of place among the worn leather and roughspun tunics of other guards. Soon, Kai felt a stare at him as Klan turned his head towards him. Both of them walked where he was standing as he tilted his head. Lord Arzan, Jacks gave a respective nod and Klan followed soon after. Yes? We wish to take our meals in our tents. Rest for the night, if thats alright, Jacks said as his eyes went to the plate in his hand. Okay. Kai nodded, having no reason to hold them back. Excuse us, Klan said and gave a final half-bow, walking inside one of the tents. It was amusing to see these two men so awkward and uncomfortable in the presence of his guards. The demeanour from the first day they entered his estate was nowhere to be seen. Kai watched them leave with a slight smile tugging at his lips. He then turned his attention to the feast the people were having the roasted boar. Without another word, he settled down on a makeshift log seat. One of Maldens staff, an old man, walked towards him with a plate. It seemed as if they had already prepared his serving and soon, a glass of ale was also served. Some men who were too close to him stood up and gave a respective bow before walking away and taking seats with the other guards. Only Killian and the mercenary group dared to sit near him. Kai didnt need time to think as he dug into the meat. The roasted meat was chewy but tender in his mouth and the smell was quick to fill his nostrils, making him hungrier than before. As soon as the second and third pieces of meat hit his tongue, he was a goner. The meat was too good in taste not to devour it whole. The ale was just the cherry on top. His attention went to Gorak, who chewed on a large piece of meat. The man whose plate was now empty, was quick to raise his hand for a second piece. He had thought about it before, the reasons they acted as such. Gorak''s group was a motley crew of fighters with a keen eye for coin and a blunt disregard for nobility. They were quite a welcome change from the usual courtly sycophants Kai met every day. They treated him not as a Baron, but as a Mage who had proven himself worthy in a fight. There was a refreshing lack of pretence or fawning in how they behaved around him, a visible contrast from how Malden behaved. Other than that, they knew Kai was approachable. It all made sense, and he wasnt about to complain about it. Kai took a bite of the tender meat, distracting his thoughts and entertaining his taste buds. After a while, he felt like the fire crackling in front of them welcomed a conversation now that his surroundings were suddenly too quiet to his liking. Kai, a half-eaten boar leg in hand, turned towards the mercenaries group and looked at Raven. "How is your spirit doing?" he asked softly, his voice barely a murmur. A wisp of cool air brushed against his cheek instantly, a silent response. Kai noticed the faint green light that brushed against him. Thinking back, he remembered how the wisp first reacted to him. It seemed comfortable around Kai and that was probably because of the mana it felt from him. Its good. A little bit scared with all the people around, Raven cleared her throat. Probably taken back due to how the spirit reacted to him. "A little overwhelmed, I take it?" Kai asked. Another wisp of air, followed by a faint feeling of anxiety. Kai smiled reassuringly. It was rather odd how he could feel it. "Don''t worry," he said, his voice low and calming. "You''re safe here." He paused for a moment, then changed the subject. "Did it manage to sense any dangers around here?" Raven nodded. The wisp did notice a couple of monsters in the vicinity, and apart from that it informed me a while ago about some people who came to scout the area. The blue glow swirled and rested on top of Ravens shoulder, soon becoming invisible to the naked eye. He grunted and nodded, a frown creasing his brow. Killians voice came rather alarmed from next to Kai. "Scouts?" he asked, his voice gruff. Gorak, who had been listening intently, chuckled and thumped his meaty fist on the log beside him. Yes, I believe Lord Arzan already knows and I was just about to mention it myself. Raven informed me about it an hour ago. I just used a spell to sense anyone around in the clearing when we were setting up tents. You think they are bandits?" Kai inquired, his gaze roaming towards the treeline. Gorak nodded. "Must be a group from the Barbarians. I heard about them making rounds far into their territory to capture more of it, so guess it makes sense for them to scout around here." Oh? Kai pushed further, leaning forward. Gorak cleared his throat and elaborated for Kai''s benefit. I''m sure Malden informed you about them the large bandit group, but we call them barbarians. These ''Barbarians'' are a ragtag bunch of fighters from ancient clans and tribes. They used to live autonomously in the mountains, a mineral-rich region bordering several kingdoms, including Lancephil. Both Lancephil and its neighbours tried to claim the land and enslave the warriors for how strong they are, and to acquire the unique fighting styles they have been using for decades, but the Barbarians wouldn''t submit." Killian took a swig from his drink before continuing. "They fought back, fierce as a trapped tiger. But they were outnumbered. Eventually, they were forced to flee, pushing south and crossing the border into Lancephil. Now, they roam the fringes, raiding settlements and causing trouble. Eh, Id say quite the annoying tribe." Kai digested the information slowly. Bandits, it seemed, were a constant threat in this land. But something about these Barbarians piqued his curiosity. After all, unlike actual bandits, they were simply refugees who were forced to leave their lands due to selfish interests. Even if they tried to assimilate into Lancephil, he knew it wouldn''t be easy if the country wanted to enslave them. "These Barbarians, they''re not your typical cutthroats," Gorak said, wiping his scarred head with his calloused palm. "They let most merchants pass unscathed past Sylvan Enclave territory, where we are right now, just take a bit of coin or food as a ''tax'' for not killing us. It''s the nobles they hate, the ones who tried to enslave them in the mountains. Theyd torture them, thats the rumour, never seen first hand." He gave a look at Kai who struggled. "So, they''re more of a resistance movement, operating under the guise of banditry?" Gorak nodded. "Yes, Lord Arzan, that''s the gist of it. They torture those with noble connections, send a message, you see. Since they have no real power, that''s the only thing they could do." The mercenary leader repeated the word torture putting weight on it. Kai leaned back. It was an interesting dynamic. These Barbarians, forced from their homes, were striking back in the only way they knew how. But why weren''t the nobles taking action? "It seems no noble house has tried to eradicate them," he finally said, voicing his curiosity. Gorak snorted. "Eradicate? These Barbarians are no ordinary bandits, Lord Arzan. They''re fierce fighters, honed by years in the mountains. And they know the terrain like the back of their hand. Any large force sent against them would just get lost in a chase. Theyd run away if the force was too large though. Mostly, nobles are letting them be as they havent caused any big problem yet for them to take immediate deathly action. Either way, the bandits had only managed to target the smaller nobles." Killian nodded and continued Goraks explanation. "It''s not that the nobles haven''t considered it. The former Duke wanted to deal with them, but they were wiping out the smaller bandit groups that plagued the outlying villages, so he let them be. But in the past year, they''ve grown bolder, sneaking further into our territory." Kai finished chewing a bite of boar meat. He nodded slowly, but thoughtfully, "I see. It seemed like the classic case of Arzan''s father using them to keep the bandit groups in check, but now, they have become the big bad of the region and were trying to gain more power and control by spreading their reputation. Lord Arzan, should I act as a guard with a few others? You can head inside the tent and get some rest, Killian said, his eyes boring into Kais as the latter finished his meal. Kai shook his head slightly. No need, I''ll take the first watch myself." We can''t let you do that, Lord Arzan. He looked at him as if he was saying something ominous. With so many guards here, you should rest. If any bandit comes, we can deal with them. Kai met his gaze steadily. "Dont worry, Killian. I just want to sit under the night sky for a while, so I will take the first watch. Besides, these Barbarians, if they are indeed scouting, wouldn''t strike until the dead of night in a few hours. We have a long journey ahead tomorrow, and the guards mercs included need their rest." The logic was sound, but Killian still hesitated. "Perhaps I could C" Kai cut him off with a raised hand. "No, Killian. Its not up for an argument. It''s been a while since I''ve had a moment to myself." Killian sighed but composed himself quickly. He nodded and stepped back. "Very well, Lord Arzan. But if anything feels amiss, call out and Ill be here." All of them sat around there for a while longer before growing too tired to continue. One by one, the guards, Malden, his staff and mercenaries, weary from the day''s travel bid him their farewell and retreated to their tents. Kai watched them disappear before taking a deep breath and looking at the sky. In the moment, it was just him, alone, under the vast expanse of the night sky, with millions of stars looking down upon him. His master had told him that thousands of years back, the mana in the night was vibrant, and as he breathed in it, he agreed with them. From the era he had come from, dark clouds would mostly cover the sky always as if the air itself was polluted and he had lived most of his life in the tower, barely going until it was a quest or exploring. So, the stars were things he had never been able to gaze upon like this before. After acting tireless for weeks, preparing for one thing or another, he knew he needed this. Therefore, he let himself be in silence while seconds poured into minutes. Then, he looked down at his hands and felt a chilling cold in the core of his being, one that was never there before. Unlike his fire or wind affinity, it was one he wasn''t as familiar with, nor did he know any major spells in it. For fire, he knew most of them till the fourth circle and even a few beyond that. For ice, it was completely different and other than frost breath and ice shards first circle spells he had hurriedly learned because his master insisted on knowing spells from every element. Though theyd add more intensity to the battle if combined with his other affinities, his ice affinity wasn''t going to do much if he didn''t manage to get more spells. It was frustrating. Even if he knew two or three spells, he had never spent more than a moment practising them, so using them in battle was going to be beyond him till he got their casting time to an appropriate level. It was completely different than wind or fire, and that made things tenfold harder to learn and master. Spells using ice, he vaguely recalled, relied heavily on manipulating atmospheric moisture, calculating precise structures to coerce the water molecules into freezing. But, thankfully, he was determined. This was affinity. Therefore, he will make it work he should make it work. Kai inhaled deeply and exhaled, letting all the air out of his lungs. He inhaled once again and opened his eyes, focusing on his palm for the spell structure he recalled. The imaginary lines drew one after another, connecting itself into a proper [Ice shard] spell structure. It was much more level than a fire spell structure, feeling cold to his palms with glowing white lines and much harder than land properly. As the structure came to a close end, Kai started pushing mana from his core to his palms, curious about the result. As soon as the structure was completed and mana poured out, he felt his hands go cold for a brief moment. The spell structure broke from his palms and only a hint of used mana was left in the air. Kais hands tugged on the hair that was on his neckline as he squinted his eyes. The spell structure came to his mind once again. He had done it all right, the lines must have He couldnt give up. He tried again. The frustration was turning into a focused determination as he drew the structure back again from scratch, mana flowed, he felt the ice affinity in his body and then No shard, nothing visible, only a feeling of failure in his hands. It broke once again, vanishing in the air. The structure was what seemed to be the problem. Maybe he was getting it all wrong. But there was only one way to find it out, Sarch* The Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai continued. After every failed try, he tried harder. The very air refused to mould into icy submission. An hour passed with his grunts and exasperated sighs. He shook his hands, flickering the wrist and forming a small orb of light, warming his palms from the coldness. Although he had expected to fail early on, ice was coming across as much harder to grasp than fire or wind. He knew it wasn''t his affinity since he felt his connection to ice clearly, but the structure wasn''t working as expected. Maybe he remembered it wrong or he was hurrying too much. Whatever it was, he needed to give it time. For now, I guess I could get busy with the intruders, he muttered, looking towards the oak trees beyond the stream. For a moment, his eyes glowed and he smiled. Dusting his hand off the light ball, he stood up. He had heard about the barbarians from Killian and Gorak but hadn''t gotten a good idea of their strength, so this would be a good exercise. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 71. Barbarians (2) Ragnar huffed slowly, knowing his men could hear them. Not even the slightest sound went unheard by his men, and thats how trained they were. Right now, they were in front of a clearing a large travelling band had made themselves comfortable in. They had to pass the water lake to get here, and fortunately, the water didnt go past their ankles. It was large, but shallow in depth. If it was the rainy season, the story mightve been different. But it all happened in silence. Ragnar looked at his second-in-command and raised his eyebrows. , the bald man signalled from atop a tree. The oak trees they hid behind werent as tall as the usual trees they picked to hunt on prey (mostly beasts, but also nobles who would venture deep in the forest for their hunting games), however, trees they helped them; they helped them blend, move faster, jump from higher, gain the upper hand over their enemies and mostly, spy without getting caught. In most cases, more than seventy per cent of the time, most beasts would have no idea they were being trailed and even if they got a whiff of it, their stamina would always give up after a point. The less said about nobles, the better. Humans rarely looked above them after all. He watched his men again, their mismatched leather and furs coming into view. Every one of them wore the hide of the beast they had killed and from them, they made their armour. It was a long-running tradition, one that Ragnar had done well in himself. He had brought along thirty of his best men to capture the strangers who were trying to cross through the Sylvan Enclave. They must know who they would meet, so close to the road going towards the capital, yet they had dared to come here. Ragnar walked closer to the nearby oak tree and peeked at the clearing. It was showered in the flickering orange glow of the campfire. A lone man sat in front of a makeshift tent, his back turned towards the fire. He grunted. Ragnar looked at Wulfgar and tapped the back of his neck, right where the tribe tattoo was; a set of sharp, large teeth that were outlined with dots a traditional tattoo that was given to everyone in their tribe, regardless of their age or sex. Ragnar often used the signal when Wulfgar would spy on top of trees to get down and come behind him. His second in command gave a questioning look to Ragnar who signalled at the camp. "Just one guard, can you believe it?" Ragnar scoffed, a sneer twisting the scar that went in between his eyes from his forehead towards the end of his nose. "These nobles, they grow stupider with every passing month, Wulfgar." Beside him, Wulfgar, the man with a shaved head and a single braided beard silenced him with a sharp elbow jab. "Quiet, you fool," he hissed, his voice barely a whisper. "We don''t want to alert them before we''re ready." Ragnar grumbled under his breath. He frowned at the tall and broad-shouldered man. He shifted his gaze to look at the surroundings more. Several large carriages, emblazoned with an unfamiliar crest and the flag wavering stood in the back. The image of a phoenix with ashes was on it and it fluttered gently in the breeze that came from the low stream. For a second, the lone figure stood up slowly, almost as if he were looking at where his men were behind the oak tree. Ragnar felt his heart squeezing in his chest. He could feel the mans eyes taking in the trees, or his men behind those large woods. But, there was no way he detected them. His men were trained to move in the darkness, especially after their raids in the last year. Still, a single probability came to his mind. What if it was a trap? A single lone man guarding the camp was already an oddity. Were they simply being led on to drop their guards down? As those thoughts were being born in his mind, the man quickly sat down, making him sigh in relief. The sigil? Ragnar questioned in a whisper. "Don''t recognize the sigil," he muttered, his brow furrowing in thought. "Newcomer, perhaps? But clearly a noble, by the looks of those fancy carriages. Even the man standing by the fire looks to belong to a wealthy family. Maybe a knight''s son travelling with the noble." A predatory glint shone in his eyes as he narrowed them, looking at the lone man. He turned towards his men who had taken different positions and made a silent hand gesture snapping them to attention. His voice, though a whisper, carried his plan. "We''ll hit them hard and fast," he said. "Most of them are just servants and baggage handlers. We''ll beat them into submission, leaving a few alive as a warning. Kill whoever tries to act smart, and find that noble in that group, hes our main target," he pointed towards the lone figure by the fire, "him, we take alive. He''ll fetch a hefty ransom, and maybe some information as well." Ragnar recalled how their spies had looked at a knight and a few other men hunting down a wild boar. The few other men on the hunt included people who wore clothes that were different to the ones that the guards did. Probably mercenaries or some local fighting group. Regardless, Theyve witnessed how the crew had handled the weapons with practised ease, like seasoned fighters. There was no doubt about that. Therefore, Ragnar knew he couldnt go in without a plan and let his men follow their intuitions. Ragnar signalled with his hands and they all nodded simultaneously. His men at the back passed the message to the ones who couldnt see Ragnar properly. With a final, silent nod, Wulfgar raised his hand. The trained bowmen in the back aimed at the lone man. Ragnar looked at how the man was simply sitting still all the while looking at the forest with an interesting eye. Since he wasnt moving, there was no better time. He nodded, and Wulfgar flickered his fingers. An arrow whistled through the air, aiming squarely at the lone man''s face by the fire. But it never found its mark. A gust of wind out of nowhere, deflected it. Ragnar and Wulfgar narrowed their eyes. The wind should be seemingly calm at this hour of the day. Moreover, even the lake water was still when they crossed it. Wulfgar on the other hand, didnt wait another second to observe or think about it, he signalled from his wrist to attack with more arrows. Soon, several arrows rained down on the man who simply stood with his arms crossed. Once again, the wind over and over made the arrows miss the target. Ragnar signalled, frowning and not wanting to waste more arrows. He squinted his eyes at the man as a bad feeling settled in his gut. "Boring," the man who stood alone drawled. A dramatic yawn followed after. Wulfgars eyebrows almost reached his hairline as he looked at Ragnar angrily. Was that man talking about them? "I expected more from the vaunted Barbarian warriors, he said, his voice loud and clear. The lone man took a single step forward towards where they hid. From behind, Ragnars men didnt wait for further commands, three of them charged forward with axes in their hands ready to cleave the man in half. As they lurched, the lone man immediately reciprocated. He crouched to pick up the spear that was close to him and moved briskly, almost as if something was pushing him forward. Ragnar bent on his knees as he closely observed his men jumping on the lone guard. They jumped four feet high in the air and launched themselves, their axes reaching different parts of his body. But the man moved in a blur. He retracted a few steps as the axe hit the ground, and then he thrust forward with his spear. One of his men deflected the blow, but the spear moved like a snake, changing its trajectory and swiftly striking his collarbone. His men yelped in pain as another stepped forward with the heavy weapon, but the guard dodged again, sidestepping a blow. The third man tried to steal a slash as he moved behind the guard, but his axe only touched the air as his opponent disappeared. It was almost as if he had vanished for a second, but Ragnar knew he moved swiftly. The guard appeared behind the third man and thrust forward with his spear. The man went down, blood spurting out of his chest. The lone Barbarian shouted in fury, but his axe wasn''t able to touch the guard. He paced around the ground at a speed that was hard to follow and slapped aside the axe that was coming for his head. Then, he kicked his man on the ground, sending him rolling back. As the guard moved to kill the third man, Wulfgar commanded the others to launch more arrows. The fighting men needed their help! The arrows soon whistled through the air which made the guard stop. He flicked his wrist and suddenly, everyone felt the wind rustling through the trees. A glow appeared in his hands and for a moment, Ragnar was tranced by it. Out of nowhere, a torrent of wind rose and shielded the man. The arrows hit the shield and broke, falling to the ground. Ragnars eyes widened. He turned back to look at Wulfgar who had the same expression on his face fear and panic. They were up against a man blessed by the elements A Mage! Ragnar and his men had been trained for years in battle but against a mage? Theyd probably get kicked in their asses. The chances of winning were extremely low. He finally understood what was going on. They weren''t idiots to only have one guard up, it was a Mage. Some of the men that were at the front next to Wulfgar started scrambling to get away as the Mage thrust his spear, impaling the third man. Cowards! Ragnar yelled. You cant run like cowards! Thats not what we do!! His loud voice made some of the fleeing heads turn. His blood boiled at how the Mage was toying with his fighting men, and the rest who were not fighting they were already running for their lives. Before Ragnar could process what was happening, he felt something change in the air. He saw the Mage moving his hands in a motion and a glow emerging from them again as his eyes moved towards the fleeing men. Suddenly, a giant hand, wreathed in flames materialised in the air. It went past the oak trees and reached down, engulfing the fleeing men. If Ragnar touched it, he knew he would burn to death. He could only stare in horror with his heart pounding against his ribs. So, he watched it happen in front of his eyes like a darn scared animal. The Mage then brought almost all the men who fled to the air, unknown curses of his men filling Ragnars ears as he slapped them with the large flaming hand. Some hit trees, and some fell on the ground with loud grunting noises. And almost all of them got burnt in different places of their bodies. The men groaned in pain. "Don''t just stand therecharge! We have no other option but to fight!" Wulfgar''s voice cut through the stunned silence, snapping the men from their stupor. The warriors, abandoning all pretence of retreat, surged forward toward the Mage, their last hope to end this ordeal. But the Mage was unperturbed. His spear and the wind spells he used to move intertwined in a deadly dance, effortlessly cutting down Ragnars men one by one like a maniac. He twisted his spear in the air, shifting its hold by the middle of the spear and moving it in circles. The grasp in his hand glowed as the movement of the spear fastened. Four burly men circled themselves around the lone guard. The middle one yelled and they started attacking. Two axes flew through the air in frenzied arcs, desperately seeking their target, who rolled on the ground in a blur. He sprang to his feet, as the spear parried an incoming strike, then twisted to deflect another. Out of nowhere, a man lunged out of the trees, an axe in his hand. He let out an unmanly noise which made the four on the ground attack at the same time in a collaborative effort. Ragnars heart thrummed in his ears as he watched the battle. The man who flew had his axe extended like claws, aiming for the Mage''s head. But in a heartbeat, the mage crouched and muttered something that Ragnar couldnt hear. He stood sprawled on the ground, as some sort of a shield covered him. Ragnar frowned as he saw the wind blending into place promptly, positioning the shield to throw his men away. As the man clashed with the shield, they went flying like ragged dolls, almost as if their weight meant nothing. By how they grunted, Ragnar knew they had broken a few bones. You are going to die here! One of his men yelled, gaining the Mage''s attention. He held a bow in his hand, ready to fire it towards him. The mages lips curled upwards for some reason. He lifted his hands and started circling the fingers in the air. Ragnar knew he was preparing another spell and as the arrow got taken out by the shield around the man, he saw flames suddenly carving out of the air. They materialised into sharp, pointy arrows. Dozens of them appeared and the archer gulped, immediately bolting off to safety with a pale face. Seeing it, the Mage smiled and launched a few of them towards him. The archer lunged sideways to dodge one of them, but another wounded his leg, making him crash into one of the trees. The others stared at the Mage, too terrified to move, and seeing that, he launched the other flaming arrows at them. In an instant, a massacre began. One of the arrows came for Ragnar who blocked it with his mace, taking a few steps back from its impact and looking back at the clearing. The Mage kept firing more and more arrows towards his men and as he wondered if it was the end, Wulfgar lunged at him from his back. His bulky muscles twitched with every step he took forward in anger. He went for a horizontal strike, ready to cut him in half, but the Mage side stepped effortlessly, his spear thrusting forward and catching the man in the side. He spun, showing off his skills as another attack came crashing down at him. Wulfgar gritted his teeth as he put distance between them, but the spear stuck to his side, blood oozing out. Still, he put on a bloody smile on display and kept fighting, powering through the pain and going for another strike. Ragnar knew his men were wild for fights like these, but the smile on his face quickly vanished when the Mage blocked the axe with the haft of his spear, got to his feet with windy speed and kicked back with a swift, powerful blow on his face. As he watched the battle between his second in command and the Mage, he felt like rushing into action. Till now, he had been waiting for the Mage to exhaust himself before making a move, knowing that the ones blessed also had to preserve their mana. But maybe, that would be too late. He took a step forward and just then, he noticed some movements from back in the clearing. The tents opened up and more of the Mage''s men appeared, clearly having woken up from all the noises. They were more than them in numbers and he saw one of them, the knight the scouting team had reported, ordering them to attack. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He had a sharp sword in his hand and was the first one to rush towards them. He jumped to one of Ragnars men without hesitation. His sword found ways to attack the axes and the men who held them. His feet moved with excellent speed, easily outnumbering his men. This wasnt how Ragnar had hoped it would end. Not here. Not now. His grip on his mace tightened as he saw his men getting overpowered and let out a scream. Ragnar hefted his mace onto his shoulder and sprang back, leaping towards the Mage who was done trading blows with Wulfgar and was about to finish him off. He swung his weapon with wild fury but got noticed and each of his strikes was effortlessly deflected by the Mages shimmering wind barrier, leaving Ragnar unable to break through. He tried again, fury burning up his insides. But his attempts went futile as the Mage threw a gust of wind right at his heart, throwing him off of him. AGHR! Ragnar grunted loudly as his back collided with one of the tents pillars. He breathed hard as all the blood rushed to his head from the position he was in. He quickly composed himself, trying to stand, but two flaming arrows hit right in front of his legs on the ground. Ragnar took a step back, his back plastering to the tent. Who are you?! he questioned, his voice loud and hoarse. You fight with the elements. If you are a true warrior, fight without it. Ragnars eyes momentarily went around the ground, taking the sight of his men choking in pain as they were either on the ground or losing a battle to the guards who surrounded them. Elements? the Mage chuckled. His eyes they were dancing in amusement. Ragnar could feel his fists clenching involuntarily at how he was looked down upon. Are you in charge of this raiding party? Ragnar smiled confidently, his bloodied teeth probably showing off. His tattooed tongue swirled over his teeth, showing the symbol of his leadership. Im Ragnar, he straightened himself. Son of Yafgar, chieftain of Lombards! The mage smiled slowly. Are you a tribal leader''s son? Ragnar nodded slowly, an ominous feeling building in his heart as the Mage''s smile grew by the second. He again looked around, wondering if there was a way to run, but he knew it was the end. As he closed his eyes to prepare for the Mage to finish him off, he heard unexpected words coming out of the elemental-gifted man. Okay, I will let you go. What? - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 72. A safe passage Kais heartbeat calmed after all the adrenaline faded from the fight against the barbarians. Although he had been on the lookout for the barbarians to give a tough battle, the fight had gone well and easily. It seemed like the raiding team was wet behind their ears and didn''t have much real-life experience, certainly not against a Mage. Burnt hair and burnt leather gave way to a bad smell that enveloped the air. Dead barbarians lay scattered around the clearing. He didnt mean to kill the barbarians at first. But as soon as he got a slight glimpse of how many people were out in the forest, waiting to jump on him and attack, he couldnt help but show an example of the three people who launched themselves at him. The rest of the deaths were purely out of self-defence The barbarians tended to fight wildly which was almost closer to fighting a beast than a soldier or a guard. His spear work was good enough, but not to the extent of solely defeating them. Therefore, he played smart. He stayed in the distance and gained maximum advantage of it, using his spells and doing what he did well. He had been thinking about combining his wind spells to boost his speed and it had worked well. He turned his eyes to take a good look at the floor, failing to put the battle memories to the back of his mind. The broken weapons littered on the ground like the remnants of a childs broken toys. A few tents were broken and their contents spilt out. Kai dismissed that thought with a shake of his head. His eyes shifted to Killian, who was meticulously binding the wrists of a burly barbarian. The latter had a growing scowl on his face. He shook, trying to throw the knight off as he pulled the ropes from the two ends tightly. From the conversation he had heard of the barbarians while waiting for their attack, his name was Wulfgar. It was Ragnars turn next. The guard who held him kicked him in the back of his knees as the man fell into a kneeled position. His hands were out at the front as the guard tightly held him from his shoulders and the back of his neck. Soon, Killian continued to tie him just like he did before with the other barbarians. "Over thirty of them," Killian muttered, wiping sweat from his brow. "There were over thirty of them. And almost half of them are alive." Kai nodded. Thats a good number, he said as his eyes roamed over to Wulfgar. His bloodied face showed no fear as he snarled at Kai even though he could be bleeding to death. Without another word, he cast a glance towards the guards and mercenaries, who were cautiously inspecting any damage to the carriages under Maldens watchful eye. "Alright everyone," Kai announced. "Looks like we''ve got this under control. Let''s get the wounded tended to and secure the prisoners. We move out at first light." Hearing that, guards nodded in understanding and the mercenaries murmured amongst themselves. Malden, however, approached Kai. His hands clutched to his front, seeming to have something to talk with him. "Lord Arzan," he began hesitantly, "about the herb are we still going after that?" Kai matched his gaze, unblinking. "Absolutely, Malden. We''ve dealt with this little hiccup. Nothing to worry about." Malden''s brow furrowed. "But won''t there be more attacks? After all, we just" Dont worry about it, Kai said. From the expression on Malden''s face, he knew the merchant wanted nothing more than to run from the hills mentally. But he had a different plan in mind regarding his concern. I have a way of dealing with them. He looked at the Barbarian leader, Ragnar and Wulfgar, whod tried to make eye contact with him quite often. Probably to make silent conversation, but it was futile. At least unlike him, the rest of the barbarian stayed silent, only putting up small fights from time to time, but unable to do anything with their hands tied up. Kai crouched down before Ragnar, noticing the scar that ran in his blood-smeared face. Ragnar. The barbarian leader had his eyebrows knit together in a tight pull as he scowled with all his might. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Are you willing to help us? Kai questioned, knowing the answer already. Ragnar snorted and let out a deadpan chuckle. "Help you?" "We''re about to pass through your tribe''s territory," Kai explained. "If you and your men could offer us a safe passage, let''s say, I''d be willing to let you all walk free." As he said the last few words, he caught a glimpse of his men. They were perplexed at what he was offering. Killians eyes were asking if it was the right thing to do as it was a gamble at trusting these bandits who just attacked them head-on. Kai patiently waited for Ragnars response. He turned around to look at him. Ahahahah! Ragnar laughed loudly and inhaled a deep, long breath. When Kai thought he was about to reply with something he spat on the ground. A safe passage? Do you think I''d betray my own people? I''d rather die than bring you through our lands! I am anyway considered dead if I lose a battle. So, to hell with you and guiding your men!" "Those are not your land, and even if your tribe considers you dead for losing a battle, youre not dead. Traditions are nice, Ragnar, but they tend to crumble when you''re the chieftain''s son. Sentiment plays a role, you see." Ragnar squared his shoulders and lifted his chin. "I won''t help you." Kai simply shrugged. "Not a request, Ragnar. More of a command." His gaze shifted to Malden, who stood nearby. "Malden, clean up for tonight. We move out at first light. And I''ll be making a path for us through barbarian territory using them." Malden nodded, trusting Kais judgments. Along with him, the rest of the guards from behind quickly got back to work, knowing that tomorrow, was another day with quite a lot of challenges ahead. Especially now that they had to hike a mountain. *** They started their journey in the first light like Kai had promised the last night. They followed the worn path that led towards the capital. The journey itself was estimated to take five to six days, though their route took an unexpected detour. They veered off the main road, heading deeper into the wild, untamed lands that were captured by the barbarian tribes. The landscape became progressively harsher, devoid of the scattered settlements and farms that dotted the main route. The only evidence of life was the occasional herds of wild horses, their powerful bodies blurring in the distance as they fled the approaching carriages. They saw no carriages other than theirs, and it was normal considering the barbarians didnt allow any outsider to reach their territory. As they ventured deeper, Kai continued to look outside from the window. He was alone in the carriage this time with Killian taking the driver''s seat in the front. The silence descended over them, only interrupted by the rumble of the carriages. "Is this really a good idea, Lord Arzan?" Killian finally blurted out, seeming unable to carry his curiosity any longer as Kai saw him stealing a glance behind. "Isn''t this just provoking them?" Provocation? Maybe," Kai admitted. "But sometimes," he began, leaning forward, "the best way to avoid a fight is to make your enemy see you as inconvenient. Make them believe they have more to lose than to gain from the fight. Still, won''t the barbarians charge straight at us seeing our carriages? They would be much more angry than usual. They should be, but we can''t be stealthy here. Can we? The possibility of them clashing against us is a given once we enter their territory. I''m just making them believe they would lose a lot if they even tried anything against us, he said as the carriage rumbled with the uneven road. They weren''t developed in these parts, and he was sure the Barbarians would be hating him more at the moment. Your words make sense, Lord Arzan, but I have no idea what the Barbarians would do taking one look at the carriages, Killian said, his eyes glancing back at his face. Kai suddenly remembered something that would help Killian see this from the same light. Let me tell you a story. The knight nodded from the front. There once was a band of Mages, bold and daring, who needed to travel through the territory of a rival guild to reach a hidden dungeon. Now, these rival Mages weren''t exactly known for their hospitality. He explained, pausing for effect. "So, what did these Mages do?" "Well," Kai continued, "they did something rather unorthodox. They captured a powerful member of the rival guild, a Mage of considerable skill, not that it mattered. But yes, they captured a Mage from the enemy guild. "Captured one from the rival guild?" "Yes," Kai said, nodding. "And here''s the clever part. They didn''t just lock him away. They paraded him around, displayed him in a cage at the front of their carriage, for all to see." "Wouldn''t that just anger the rival guild?" Killian asked, confused. "Oh, it did," Kai chuckled. "They were furious! The whole thing was a blatant insult, a mockery of their power. But here''s the thing, Killian, every time the rival mages got close enough to attack, they noticed something unsettling." "Oh? "Yes," Kai confirmed. "The captured mage, you see, was magically tethered. Every time the rival mages inched closer, he bled profusely. A clever enchantment, a magical leash, if you will." "So, they couldn''t attack without hurting their own man?" Killian asked, piecing things together. "Exactly, the rival mages were caught in a bind. Their pride wouldn''t allow them to abandon their comrade, but at the same time, the human shield kept them at bay. So they healed him every time hed bleed." Killian shook his head, "So, they used their captured mage as a deterrent?" "A most effective one, at that," Kai agreed, "Now, the story doesn''t end there. They reached the dungeon, retrieved what they came for, but" he trailed off, leaving the sentence hanging. But? They just didn''t get back out. The Mage from the rival guild was killed." Killian raised an eyebrow and looked back. The man was clearing deep into the story by how his eyes looked curiously. "Explain." Well, because when theyd have been returning, there would have been traps for them. And even if the Mage was used to staving off them, they werent sure if the Mage guild would try any different ways to save their member. Moreover, any Mage not with them was a threat to them. Therefore, his death was certain and necessary. As they reached the hidden dungeon, they had already gotten gains to stave off the guild by sheer power, so keeping the Mage alive would have done nothing. Killian stayed silent for a few seconds, absorbing Kais story. The latter let the silence be. Were going to do the same thing? Killians voice cut through it quite soon. "Hopefully not. Barbarians are known for a certain sense of honour. Though, how much honour they have for their chieftain''s son who lost a fight Well, that remains to be seen. If I could, I would make a deal with them and hopefully, they stand by it." Killian nodded. Soon, they fell into a comfortable silence. The rhythmic creak of the carriage wheels and the gentle snorting of the horses filled the air. Kai saw trees and empty roads beyond the window and even the mana felt a bit purer, the more they climbed the mountains. Then, a shout from the front shattered the peace. "Lord Arzan! Movement up ahead!" one of the drivers called. Kai straightened in his seat, his smile fading. He glanced at Killian. "Looks like we''re about to find out just how honourable the barbarians truly are." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 73. Yafgar Yafgar tightened his hand around the rope that kept the bulldrake beneath him moving with speed as he felt the sting of the mountain air on his face. Hundred strong men in his tribe rode their bulldrakes down the treacherous slopes, the massive creatures sure-footing on the rocky path. He groaned loudly, signalling his bulldrake to move faster as he knew his destination was nearby. The creature soon fell into a rhythm, fasting its feet and moving forward as if everything else in the surroundings was dust. These werent ordinary bulls; these were a result of generations of selective breeding and perfect mana manipulation to fuse their ancestors with mountain goats; something Yafgar hadnt seen but only heard through the local population, that had resulted in beasts with the strength of bulls, the agility of horses and a disposition as wild as the wind. They were perfect for navigating through the forest or quickly implementing an escape plan. They had taken time and effort into taming the local bulldrake population not long after settling in these mountains, a move that had solidified their stay in the region. After all, who were they to not take advantage of what was offered to them in the local settlement itself? Now, the cadenced snorting of the magnificent beasts echoed through the valley. They were reaching slowly to the place where the scouts had brought word of plump merchant carriages heading easy pickings for their tribe who hunted on nobles quite often. Yafgar looked around him and noticed his son wasnt with them. Brugnar, a man with his head shaved and missing an ear, looked up at Yafgar. Wheres Ragnar? Yafgar finally let his thoughts out. Havent seen the oaf in a fortnight. Brugnar grunted, spitting a stream of brown tobacco juice onto the rocky path. "Took a smaller raiding party to the plains a while back. Said something about expanding our territory. Brought back a good haul last time, so I let him be." Yafgar''s brow furrowed. Ragnar, his eldest son, was a firebrand, always itching for a fight. He valued glory and spoils over strategy, a trait that often landed him in trouble. And mostly at those times, Yafgar or his right-hand Brugnar had to save him more often than not. Still, Yafgar couldn''t deny the boy''s skills he was a natural leader amongst the younger Barbarians. It was evident since day one when they were put into practice, at the young age of twelve. After all, the skills ran in the blood, no wonder. "Irresponsible whelp," he grumbled, more to himself than Brugnar. But the chieftains'' annoyance was quickly forgotten as they rounded a bend in the path. The sight that greeted them brought a jolt of surprise to Yafgar. It was the merchant carriages they came searching for. Not the scattered collection of rickety wagons they were expecting, but a dreadful line of well-mannered carriages, guarded by disciplined-looking men, with their tough armour. Not a single piece of leather or piece of clothing seemed to be out of place in the guards. Yafgar clenched his jaw as he saw a lone figure among the train of carriages. It was impossibly small from the distance, riding at the front and sighing next to the driver''s seat. But what made his gut wrench was the person on top of the carriage. Strapped with ropes and visible enough to figure out who it was, in familiar leathers, but all bloody was Ragnar. Behind him, more of the men from his tribes were strapped similarly on carriages. A few had only one man, but other bigger ones had more than two or three of them congested together. Yafgar''s knuckles whitened as his clutch tightened. He was shocked, in fury and concern at the same time. His eyes widened and squinting, taking turns. He looked around his troupe to see if what he was seeing was true maybe he was . Maybe Unfortunately, it was true. Since every Lombards fighter saw the same thing that he did and mirrored his expressions, he couldnt deny a thing on display. Ragnar was bound and humiliated. His hands were tightly bound by some sort of ropes as his eldest son looked up in despair. But it wasnt just the sight of his son and his men in captivity and display that sent a surge of rage through Yafgar. It was the flagrant audacity of it all. Argh! Yafgar yelled from his throat. They mock us! His voice echoed through the valley. His men grunted from behind. Hundreds of noises, agreeing with his anger. They parade our own flesh and blood like a trophy! This is a challenge! A declaration of war! Blood I want all of their blood in this land! Their bodies in the damn trees! We are going to kill and skin each one of them alive! The men from behind shouted different nothings, agreeing with their chieftain. Axes were raised, spears brandished and bulldrakes thundered forward, hooves pounding on the earth. Yafgar couldnt hear anything else apart from his raging heartbeat in his ears. He couldnt hear his men yelling that theyd kill and break every bone that belonged to the people in the carriages, or even the radiating anger that reeked from his right-hand man, who cursed every God known to mankind. As they charged closer, however, everything seemed to slow beneath them. Someone from one of the carriages seemed oblivious to the approaching storm. Hundreds of men were no joke, but he stood casually at the front of the carriage. Huh?! Yafgar shouted. The man held his hand up in a placating gesture. Brugnar grunted loudly, signalling their men to be prepared to jump on them considering they already had their weapons out. Soon they were barely five feet away from the carriages. Men from behind made animalistic noises as they were about to jump on the well-dressed man. Just then, the man in the front opened his mouth. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Id like to make a deal with you! His loud voice halted everyone in their actions. Yafgar squinted his eyes and raised a hand, signalling his men to hold. This wasnt right. Something about the whole situation felt off. *** Kais hand was placed on his carriage as he leaned forward with his eyes darted towards far in the distance where a bunch of men were raging towards them at least a hundred, or even more. The situation should have scared or physically blown another regular person away, but Kai had an aim. His eyes momentarily shifted towards Killian, who was already prepared to face anything that came from their way heads-on, with his hand on his sword hilt. His thoughts were interrupted by the bound man on top of the carriage, grumbling like a caged bear; Ragnar. Theyre here! Ragnar practically growled. Despite being tied and beaten down already, his voice still seemed to have a fire in it. My father Hes going to kill you all. Kai chuckled at his words. "For someone who lost a battle. You wouldn''t happen to know a thing or two about staying silent when captured, would you?" He took a few steps behind so he could properly look at the look on Ragnars face. The smile on his face grew with the sound of the hooves. He really seemed to have faith in his father and his tribe. Though Kai knew he was going to be disappointed once they got here and even if they managed to free him, he doubted Ragnar would be welcomed well. Just by his words, the tribe put honour at the top and they would certainly not be happy with him humiliating himself. Either way, the man was up for a tough time. He shook his head mentally as the hooves of the animals they were on got closer. They looked to be a blend of horses and bulls, and that somehow was the last thing Kai needed to focus on right now. Malden and a few guards in the carriages behind put on a nervous front as he glanced back. Even the two Mages who were in an adjacent carriage were eyeing each other, probably wondering if they should run away. Ignoring their anxiousness, Kai smiled. Without any hesitation, he walked forward and waved his hand at the men in the front. Two men led the hundreds of them. One was a tall, broad-shouldered but old man, probably Ragnars father Yafgar; and from the way he swirled his tongue on his upper teeth just like Ragnar had, his thoughts were confirmed. . Next to him was a rather bulky stout man with a bald head and a missing ear. A rather strong aura came from him and Kai guessed that he was the most dangerous warrior in the tribe. Id like to make a deal with you! Kais voice seemed to halt some of the men who were about to throw a fight. Yafgar quickly raised an arm. "We have no deals to make!" Yafgar replied, loudly. "You return my son, my warriors, and face the consequences of your actions! I don''t know who you are, a warrior or a noble, but if you come forward right now, I will make sure your death is easy. He pointed at Kai. Put on a fight, harder your death will be, either way, your bodies will be left to rot on the mountain slopes as a warning to all who dare trespass on our land!" Although the number of men he brought could easily fill all the empty chambers back in the castle, the silence that descended upon them was eerie. No one dared to talk after the threatening words. Kai didnt want to show fear. Therefore he gave an amiable smile, which obviously didnt go unnoticed by Yafgar. "You dare mock me?" he sneered. "Who are you to display my son like a trophy? Release him and face the consequences!" "Chieftain Yafgar, isn''t it?" Kai replied, his voice carrying a calmness that shouldnt be there. A part of his mind spiralled with what-ifs in a situation like this, but he knew he was in control till he had the captives. Yafgar grunted in confirmation, his eyes narrowed, taking in the sight of Kais guards and his men who were bound on top of their carriage. My name is Arzan Kellius, a noble and this whole entourage is mine, Kai continued, his gaze settling on Ragnar. Your son here decided to engage in a rather dishonourable act. Raiding our camp under the cover of night? Not exactly a testament to the Lombards tribe''s honour and integrity, is it? So, I thought of teaching him a small lesson manners, you see." Yafgar''s jaw was visibly clenched. A few men from behind protested with noises. From the looks of it, they were angry, yet they were listening. Kai took it as a sign to continue. "A few of your men got killed in the battle," Kai said, "The others, well, they''re currently enjoying the hospitality of my carriage." Yafgar''s nostrils flared. "You speak of honour while your kind drove us from our ancestral lands! How was that honourable?!" Kai raised an eyebrow. "Ancestral lands, you say? I''m afraid I''m just a humble noble. Not associated with the grand politics that displaced your tribe. Besides, war isn''t what I seek. All I desire is safe passage through these parts." Yafgar got down from the monstrous creature with a thud, signalling his men to stay right where they were. "Safe passage earned through the humiliation of my son? You say words of peace, but what you have shown me is a cause of war. This is going to be a war!" Hearing the words, Kais gut feeling yelled that these men would attack sooner than he had expected. He had one chance, to explain about the deal, and prepare for what was about to come. Therefore, he wrapped both his hands behind him and started drawing the spell structure for [Flame arrow]. Without passing a heartbeat, he started to speak. "Now, chieftain, let''s not be hasty. This," he gestured towards Ragnar, "was merely a tactic. You see, your son wasn''t exactly cooperative when I asked him. And I have a very specific herb I need, one that only grows in these parts. So, unfortunately, this was the only way. Im willing to exchange your son in return for that herb, and weve to move safely at thatC" Kais words were cut short by a few men who got off the creatures from behind, almost sprinting forward. Yafgar scoffed at his words. Thatd be the deal, Kai finished what he was about to say. Hearing that, Malden whimpered from behind. One hundred angry barbarians were not funny, clearly. "Trading my son''s life for passage? Clever, but not enough. We settle our debts in blood!" Yafgar roared. He raised his hand once again, as his thumb and middle finger flickered. It seemed like a signal for his men as they unisonly shouted something unknown and took a step forward. But before Yafgar could take another, Kai used the spell structure he was creating and pushed a considerable amount of mana to create arrows. They conjured from his hand and went to the thin air almost immediately. Yafgar, who saw the arrows with widened eyes, pulled up his sword to block them, but Kai had a different plan. He shifted his aim at the prisoners necks. One at Ragnar, one at the single-braided man, and the others at the rest of the bound men. Kai raised both his eyebrows challengingly, his hands waving a motion as the arrows got closer to their necks. He looked up and saw one of the men draw a small amount of blood from his neck. Kais lips curled up to a smile. "Take one more step, Chieftain, and I''ll give you plenty more reasons for war." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 74. A show of strength Kai took a deep breath as his eyes lingered on the angry men. Some were fuming red, physically. If it werent for the situation, how their burly figures turned red wouldve been comical. But the tension that crackled in the air, thicker than the mountain fog kept him from chuckling. He remained a picture of calm, his hand outstretched in a gesture that was both a plea and a threat, the arrows still slightly cutting some of Ragnars men on the carriages. Although he could easily cut through Ragnars neck, it only invited war, therefore, Ragnar and his second in command, Wulfgar were two among the captives who didnt get a single scratch from his arrows. The other captives had blood sleeking down their necks where the arrows slightly hit and the fact that they squirmed and moved under it in fear didn''t help either. Still, he made sure not to overdo it since his intention wasn''t to kill any of them. At least for now. Very well, Kais voice cut through the tense silence. If youre about to kill me, youll be going home with the dead body of your son and his men. I''m pretty sure a lot of them are the children of you all, young and brash and a collective funeral for them would make quite an event. Yafgars nostrils flared. Kai could see the vein that throbbed in his temple. Empty threats, blessed one! I wouldnt turn around without your blood in my hands! Yafgars words were agreed upon by his people from behind. They put their weapons in the air, shouting for their want for Kais blood. Kai didn''t answer that directly. Instead, he lifted his other hand as mana surged through it, slowly streaking across to form a spell structure through which another flaming arrow appeared. The arrow swooshed into the thin air, gaining everyones attention as it hovered just inches from Ragnars bound form. Now, in total two arrows were a few units away from him. One on his neck and the other on his face. Wh-what are you doing? Yafgar shouted. A slow, chilling smile spread across Kais face. He flickered his wrist and changed the direction of the arrow. It shot forward, not in Ragnars direction, but towards Yafgar. The movement happened in a blur as it stopped inches from the chieftains face, the heat singing his beard and making him flinch back. He let the arrow hang there, suspended in mid-air. With intent, he used mana to swing the arrow around in a slow arc, the flames casting shadows around Yafgar and his right-hand man. Do you really believe that you can touch me? Much less, kill me? he asked, the last part came out with a low chuckle. His amusement-filled facade in the face dropped as he dramatically asked, You called me a blessed one, right? Well, I don''t know if you know any other blessed, but I''m way more dangerous than all of them. Before Yafgar could reply, he snapped his fingers. Mana surged out of him in droves as the single flaming arrow shifted in the air, slowly multiplying. One became two and two became four and four became eight. Like that, over fifty arrows floated in the air, casting an orange glow over the barbarians. Much to his happiness, a collective gasp escaped from the lips of even his own companions behind. Kai watched Yafgar closely, who stared upwards. Multiple emotions ran through his face fear, anger respect? All the while, he didnt let his guard down even for a second. Fifty arrows were ready to fall on the barbarians and even if it was too much of a waste of his mana reserves, he held the arrows on Ragnar and the captives as well. He needed to maintain that as a direct threat to their sons since he and his men were in no position to contest against the barbarians. Even if they dealt with the ones in front of them, more of them were going to come for revenge. It would be never-ending. He looked at the barbarians their faces contorted in horror. Some even had their mouths gaped open. By the way, a few of them took a few steps back or glanced back, he knew he had managed to seep fear into them. Kai took advantage of the stunned silence that spread through the area. Do you truly desire war, chieftain? A war that will leave your men and yourself nought but smouldering ash? Might as well ask from them to see if they would want to die here, in the hands of a Mage. Yafgars hardened face scrunched up for a brief moment. He tried to mask his expression, but his eyes didn''t lie. After all, these werent trained liars, they were trained fighters. Their eyes wouldnt lie unless they intentionally tried to. With the arrows separating them from life and death, Yafgar couldn''t put up a front even if he wanted to. The thought that it would take a second for the arrows to pierce down their throats had already entered his mind. Were no enemies of your tribe, you know, Kai continued. He knew hed drag a few eyes from what he was about to say next. I apologize for what the kingdom did to your tribe. It is something out of my power to even take back if I could. If it was up to me, or anyone whos a part of my land, we wouldnt have gone that far as to execute you from your own land. He looked straight into the eyes of Yafgar, trying to seem as earnest as possible. The last few words struck, Kai could tell from the widened eyes of the man who was next to Yafgar; the one with the braid. He even saw Killian shooting a surprised glance, one eyebrow raised. All things considered, this wasnt part of the plan, to apologise for something they didnt do, but his immediate action seemed to have had a proper impact. A murmur rippled through the front line of the barbarians. The chieftain remained frozen, his eyes bouncing between the fiery crown of arrows overhead and Kais eyes that were glued to him. He had given the message clearly War was an option, but a disastrous one for them. They would be going up against a walking inferno who would kill the future of their tribe before the fight could even start. To poke him a little towards his benefit, Kai took a deep breath, and let his carefully constructed facade soften. We sought a peaceful solution, he said, trying his best to sound sincere. Thats why Ragnar remains unharmed, despite his questionable tactics to kill us in the middle of the night. A pointed glance at the whimpering figure on the carriage underscored his words. All we ask for is safe passage through your lands. Once I gather the herb I need, I will release all your men and of course, your son, unharmed. The chieftain grunted. A quick stop, he added, emphasising his need. Just a healthy exchange. We wish you no harm, and in return, you get your son back." Kai kept his eyes on the barbarians; a glimmer of movement amongst them. He cast a [Rave''s whisper] and immediately felt the familiar hum flooding his senses. It was a simple first circle spell to eavesdrop on conversations, one he had used on Ragnar and his men yesterday. Brugnar, Yafgar''s hefty second-in-command, was whispering something fierce in the chieftain''s ear, something about a lucky throwing dagger and how he could take the "Blessed neck." Yafgar scoffed, his response barely audible even with his spell. "With those flaming stars overhead," Yafgar rumbled, "I wouldn''t get close enough to swing a dagger before becoming another ash pile. And taking down a Blessed that''s risking a war of attrition, one we''ll lose. What if he has more men than the ones riding with him? What if there''s more blessed among them? You son of boars just want a battle, but have you seen a single expression of fear on his face? By the elements, that man is dangerous." A wave of relief washed over Kai. It seemed reason, however begrudging, was prevailing. He kept the display of fiery arrows hovering, a potent reminder of the consequences of defiance. But beneath the surface, his mind raced. He had gambled, playing on the barbarian''s fear and the sentiments of a father. But the question of will it even be enough for them to go through the passage lingered in his mind. After a moment of whispers, they turned towards Kai. Needless to say, he heard every single word that was passed between them. Kai saw Yafgar glancing at his son, fear and shame flickering in his eyes. "What guarantee do I have you won''t dispose of my son after you get what you want?" Yafgar asked, his eyes staring straight at him. Kai kept his face from showing anything, but he was grinning inwardly. Things were moving as well as he had hoped and now it was time to win them over completely. "Honour binds me just as firmly as it binds you, Chieftain. I swear by the very essence of pure mana itself Once I have the herb, I will release your son and his companions unharmed. He had no reason to kill anyone if they kept their part of the deal. Although he was angry with the raid, a killing spree wasn''t going to solve things since the barbarians weren''t typical bandits. He brought his hand and placed it around his gut, where his Mana heart was. I swear. As he finished his words, his hand glowed in a bright glow and enveloped the rest of the barbarians and even Killian who sat next to him. It resonated with everyone who could hear him and all of them knew he couldn''t back out of his oath. He recalled one of the papers he had read on a mana theory on how mana was alive and it was the will of the world they live in. That''s why, oaths like this contained the strongest will and one couldn''t back down on it. If they didn''t fulfil their part of the oath, mana itself would not listen to them, resulting in losing the ability to manipulate mana. In worst cases, he had even heard of it killing the person who broke the oath. He knew it was extreme, but it seemed to have done the job as Yafgar looked at him differently. He saw a flicker of something passed by his eyes before he lowered his head, examining him once more. The men behind him held different reactions to it, some were in awe, while some had their faces in scowls. Before Kai could say anything else, the voices from behind rose again, this time, loudly. "Lets fight him, Yafgar!" "I want to see his face draining blood! Whatever hes doing is useless." Yes, even if he''s blessed, he''s a noble of this drenched kingdom. We can''t trust him. We don''t know if he manipulated the oath! The men of these lands have no honour. Some more words that made Kai internally wince passed between them. Sear?h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Soon, Yafgar raised a hand, silencing the growing clamour. His gaze locked with Kai''s, ignoring them. "Very well, blessed one. Yafgar nodded, his voice loud and clear. "We accept your proposal. But know this; any hint of betrayal, any harm to my son or my men, and you will face the full fury of Lombards." Kai smiled instantly. "Your word is my assurance, Chieftain," Kai replied, his voice steady. "I have no desire to earn your enmity. You will show the integrity of my words soon enough and how I wish nothing ill of you." *** The tension in the air dissipated as quickly as it came. Yafgar silenced his men swiftly after Kai made the promise then they were on their way to find Blursage. Before they started their way to find the herb, Kai questioned about Blursage and where exactly he could find it. He wanted to make sure he was in the right direction and get it as fast as possible. If he wasted more time, the barbarians might grow restless and then, everything would go down the drain. For that, Yafgar had grunted in confirmation, and one of his men from behind walked forward, giving the specifics on where to find and how to find it. Soon after, Kai dispelled the arrows from the air. That action made a collective sigh of relief escape from his party and the barbarians. When Kai looked back, their faces had paled from the tense standoff. In all honesty, Kai was drained. He had crossed into the third circle, but maintaining more than fifty arrows for an extended period had taken a hefty chunk of his mana pool. The strain of it was too much and even if he had remained emotionless during the tense talk, he had been wincing internally, counting down each second and hoping the barbarians would agree before he showed any vulnerability. Thankfully, the gamble had paid off. The carriage trundled forward. Kai saw the barbarians flanking them from a distance and a small smile crept to his face. He allowed it, thinking of it as extra protection. With them behind them, he doubted any beasts with good eyes would dare to attack. From the back of the carriage, Ragnar''s voice rose in a frustrated tirade. "How could you agree to this, Father? They''re beneath us! We should have wiped the floor with them!" Kai ignored him, focusing on his waning mana reserves. He had a secured passage, but again, trust was a fragile thing, especially with a tribe known for their ferocity. All he could do now was hope that things would go smoothly and that the "healthy exchange" wouldn''t turn into a war cry echoing through the mountains. He sighed, feeling the stress of it all, and it didnt go unnoticed by Killian who was driving the carriage. "You do realise what you just did, right, Lord Arzan? Killian asked. "Sympathizing with the barbarians, especially in front of their chieftain, could be construed as treason if someone in the kingdom gets to know about it. The crown wouldn''t take kindly to that kind of dissent." "I know, but it was the only way to gain their trust, to get them to see us as something other than invaders." "Maybe," Killian conceded, "but trust is a fickle thing. And if word gets there" "It won''t. A sly smile crept to his face. "Before the Barbarians even arrived, I cast a soundproofing spell around the area. Only a few of our guards heard the conversation, certainly not anyone in the back." He glanced back at the carriage, where Ragnar continued his impotent ranting. "Not even Malden was privy to it. All they saw were the flaming arrows and the Barbarians backing down. They probably think I scared them off which would go well for my reputation, especially with the tower mages in the back." Killian''s brow furrowed. "So, you''re actually considering siding with the barbarians? Going against the crown for them?" Kai shook his head slowly. "I dont know, Killian. Right now, I have no intention, or such power to even think of it. But But if the barbarians prove themselves worthy." A plan already drew itself on Kais mind as he continued, I can at least give them a safe place to be. Killian nodded to that and nudged the horse to gallop faster. Let''s focus on getting that Blursage first. The sooner we''re out of barbarian territory, the better." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 75. Geopolitics Kais ears were filled with the noise of galloping as they moved forward the upward slope. With the loud noises around him, he couldn''t focus. His mind churned like a potion bubbling in an alchemist''s cauldron. His thoughts drifted towards the barbarians the standoff hadn''t only left him with a depleted mana pool. It also made him remember all the geopolitical issues associated with these men. He had learnt from Killian and the mercenaries that the barbarians were driven from their lands. Just facing Yafgar confirmed the truth of what he had learned. There was a rage in the eyes of the barbarians and if not for them having Ragnar and others in their grasp, they wouldn''t be able to escape a bloody fight. He didnt care about it, nor did he have to. But he could relate to the feeling of running away from your own home. He himself had been chased away from so many of his homes like a rogue spell bouncing off a deflected shield. Reasons were always different, but that was the reality of orphans, living on the street and changing homes to get the illusion of safety. He had only felt ease and peace in the Sorcerer''s tower. He put his time and effort into building himself all the while getting more comfortable with the surroundings. He made friends, got his master and for years, he felt like he was on the right path to give back to the tower. Though it didnt matter. Things turned out rather bitter. Now, he was in a different era itself with no way of going back to the tower. He turned in his seat, his eyes taking a tidbit on the flag of the phoenix; modified but it had the sentiment dear to Kais heart and he let his eyes be there for a few more seconds, letting the wind that howled through the mountain pass create waves in the flag. He was mainly focused on the imagery of the phoenix rising from the ashes, just like he had practically done with his life. He sighed. It was his . Looking at the barbarians, he remembered the current situation. The way everyone else except Yafgar seemed to have scowls in their faces, and their dislike could be seen miles away if focused. He wondered how to deal with them. Since they were in the Sylvan enclave, they were going to be a problem sooner or later and although he hadn''t gotten the full view of their fighting prowess, he knew they wouldn''t think twice before rushing into a war with the nobles. And in their eyes, he was one of them. He wasn''t about to become a bleeding heart crusader for every displaced tribe, but if he could deal with the barbarian problem, he might be able to get a bigger power share in this region. Veralt wouldn''t be his forever home. As he tried to deal with things thatd come up, he knew he had to face the big issue at hand; mana contamination. To bring a halt to mana contamination, hed have to make changes in the history itself. Making changes in history was no simple task. Even thinking about it he felt like thered be unnecessary blood, sacrifices and of meet-and-greets with people he didnt even know yet. That would require gaining more power, both magically and politically. If the golden era came, the world would again be on the route to dying under a sea of dead mana. He had to make sure it never came to be and even if it did, it shouldnt be at the expense of the world. He inhaled deeply, drawing a good amount of pure mana into his lungs. On a side note, he felt grateful to be living in this age. If he hadnt, experiencing such pure mana in the air wouldn''t have been possible. A part of Kais mind argued that there might be different ways to stop the contamination of the world. But again, the golden era is what led to mana contamination. Everything passed by it. Which meant, inevitably, getting his hands dirty in the muck of geopolitics. He knew the broad strokes the squabbling kingdoms, the nobles vying for power, the ever-present threat of war. But the finer details, the simmering resentments, the hidden alliances those were the missing pieces of the puzzle. He needed informants, a network of eyes and ears across the land. He needed to know For now, however, the Blursage remained the primary objective. He thought to himself while his eyebrows raised. The sight before him caused him to pull up short. Stop! Kai ordered and Killian brought the carriage to a halt. Soon, the door was opened by Killian, and he was on the ground. Following him, his guards and the mercenaries got down. Is this the area? Malden was quick to ask. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He looked at the surroundings. A large yew tree was covering the surroundings from the evening sun. Around it, there were a lot of smaller trees and herbs growing naturally. His eyes went towards the halted carriages. Since the pathway was broader than the narrow one they turned from last, the carriages had enough space to stop and even leave some space to walk around. According to the barbarians, the Blursage should be just around the yew tree. Kai looked back and using his enhanced vision, he saw Yafgar who was sitting on top of his mount and offered him a brief nod. The man didnt return it but continued to tap on the crossed hand that was in front of him. "Yes, I believe so, Kai told Malden, who straightened up immediately. He turned to the guards. Alright," he barked, addressing his guards. "Fan out and search the area thoroughly. Remember, the Blursage is a small, blue flower with shimmering petals that seem to blur in and out of focus. The movement is an illusion, so don''t hesitate. I know you can find them." The guards nodded and scattered all around the yew tree. Since the area was quite large, it was a daunting task to find a smaller herb among so many others. You lot! Make haste! Help the guards to find the Blursage! Look into that area! No one is searching there! Malden hurried his men towards the searching area. The mercenaries had gotten to work as well. Finn and Finnigan followed Ravens orders while the leader continued to follow his path. After giving one last glance towards his men, he scurried towards Kai. "May I offer a description, Lord Arzan? I saw a book on rare herbs once, with illustrations and such. The Blursage, it depicted a" Kai cut him off with a raised hand. "The description is appreciated, Malden, but we need to be swift. Every moment wasted is another opportunity for complications. I don''t want to stay here for long." Malden, who changed his balance from one foot to another, shifted his approach. "Speaking of complications," he began, "The way you handled those barbarians the rain of flaming arrows! It was mesmerising! Even the gruffest ones seemed to listen to your every word!" Kai sighed inwardly. Malden''s sycophantic behaviour was starting to wear thin. "Get to the point, Malden," he said, his voice firm. Kai had met with a lot of incidents like this; where Malden would try to sing praises while his need was somewhere far from his word. In the end, hed end up asking it after making sure Kai was in a good mood. The merchant was cliche and had his set of patterns, but at least it meant Kai didn''t have to double-think his words. Malden squirmed slightly. "Well, you see, my merchant caravans they often have to take a longer path to carry through another trade route because the barbarians would attack if anyone goes through this one. It only delays our goods. The expenses are higher with the other road since it goes through a small baron territory and the tariffs are a lot. Food items also get rotten and expire due to the weather. So, you see, Lord Arzan." Kai understood immediately. Malden wanted a safe passage for his caravans. While tempting, a guarantee was a risky proposition. He hadnt even created a healthy relationship between him and the barbarians, and how could he ask for something right now? "I can''t promise anything," he said cautiously. "The barbarians are proud people and have rigid thinking. I can talk to them, but there''s no guarantee." Malden''s face fell, but a flicker of hope remained in his eyes. "Even a suggestion is enough, Lord Arzan! Your influence is undeniable. I have never seen or heard of them conceding to a noble of the kingdom before. Kai nodded and waited. Malden tried to do more small talk, but he simply watched the guards looking for the herbs and circulated mana into his heart. Suddenly, an odd feeling washed over him. Almost as if he was being watched. He looked at the back of the carriages and saw the two Mages digging holes in his back. Their expressions were a bit strange, but as they saw Kai looking back at them, they smiled awkwardly, nodding. He had no idea what they were thinking, but it didn''t matter anymore. The guards'' shouts cut through his thoughts. "Found it, Lord Arzan!" one of them cried out, pointing towards a patch of vibrant blue flowers nestled amongst the rocks. They were hidden by them and that''s why, it had taken a while to find them. Relief washed over Kai. Finally, some good news. He quickly pushed past Malden, his eyes widening at the sight. Patches of Blursage sprouted across the ground, their shimmering petals a beacon in the harsh mountain light. "Careful," he instructed the guards. "We only need a few. Nip them from the bud, leaving the root intact." Even Malden chimed in, a hint of greed in his eyes as his lips curled upwards. There are quite a lot of them, Lord Arzan. It seemed like they were far more in quantity than what you initially wanted." Kai wanted to ignore him knowing what he wanted, but thinking of it, he had done his best for him till now and was going to do more during the beast wave. So, looking at him, he shook his head. I need as much as I can, but you can take a few. I know they fetch a good price. Use them to get more guards for your carriages. You would need those if you wish to expand in the rest of the kingdom. Certainly, Lord Arzan! Thank you so much! His face immediately brightened as he helped the guards and his staff in collecting the herb. They looked small and beautiful, but it was hard to focus on them almost as if they were disappearing every second, but it was simply an illusion. Almost every herb used for special potions like the one Kai wanted to make had unique properties and quite a few of them were poisonous. Fortunately, this one was safe. He looked at the guards. With nimble fingers, they plucked Blursage buds, their movements precise and efficient. Time seemed to warp as they worked and put the collected herbs in a small box for preservation. They collected them for quite a while and all this time, Kai kept a look on the barbarians. Thankfully, they just stood there, not showing any movements. Finally, with a satisfied nod, Kai said they had enough after they had filled a whole box. Without wasting another second, they packed up and began their descent down the treacherous mountain slopes. The barbarians, silent and watchful, shadowed their every move. It was a tense descent, the only sound of the hooves on loose gravel and the biting wind whipping through the valley. Reaching a strategic point near the main road, Kai called a halt. He got down from the carriage and looked up at Ragnar, the young barbarian''s face twisted with a mixture of resentment and fear. He looked nasty with sweat, dirt and dried-up blood on him. "Your freedom," Kai stated, his voice firm but not unkind. "As promised." Ragnar glared at him, snarling when a guard touched his bounds. Kai simply watched him without a blink. "I could still strike you down, you know," he said. "But Im choosing to stay true to my words. So leave when you can, but I can guarantee this: I will not show mercy again." Ragnar flinched. With a muttered curse, he retreated to his father''s side. The others did the same. A few of them looked like they wanted to start something, but their spirits were already broken a lot by the humiliation, so they quietly followed Ragnar. Across the valley, Kai locked eyes with the barbarian chieftain. A silent exchange passed between them as Kai nodded. This time, the man nodded back. Once he saw his son returning to the troops alongside the others, he spoke. By the elements, his voice boomed. You are a man of honour, Blessed one. You spared my son and his men''s life as we decided. He gestured towards his son and the other captured barbarians. "Even though you bear the mark of Lancephil nobility, your actions speak louder than your lineage. We will not attack any carriage bearing your colours that crosses our path. Consider it a token of gratitude." Kai smiled genuinely. "Pleasure doing an honourable deal with you, Chieftain. May our paths not cross in such a hostile manner again." He heard a few scoffs at that. From behind, their people were cursing Ragnar and his men who were wounded. But now, that was not Kais business. Turning back, he met eyes with Malden who looked like he had just made a business deal worth millions while Killian looked a bit surprised. He simply shrugged. With that done, he could finally be on the way to the capital. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 76. POV of a sand guard The main road wasnt far from the path they came through after picking sufficient Blursage. Ansel relished the feel of the wind whipping through his hair as his horse moved down the well-maintained but rocky road. He nudged the horse to quicken the speed to get in line with the guards soon, the rhythm and the peaceful wind that blew across his face put his mind to a calm state; he heard his thoughts shifting from the present to back when they were met with the barbarians. The men were twice his size. But still, his agility wouldnt hold him against men with that physique and nature for long. Even from afar, their auras were dangerous. The tension that had gripped almost the entire troupe had finally loosened its hold. The further he moved from the barbarians, he felt a pleasant ache in his muscles due to all the movements he had undergone the previous night. He tried and put away all the thoughts that crept into his mind, especially about the fight. Intentionally, he looked around. Unlike the treacherous mountain paths they had just walked, this road was a marvel of human ingenuity. Wide and smooth, it snaked its way through the landscape, a vital artery connecting the far-flung regions of the kingdom to the bustling heart of the capital city. As they joined the steady flow of traffic that was caused by other carriages, Ansel''s gaze darted around, taking in the sights and sounds. Carriages of all shapes and sizes rumbled past them merchants hawking their wares, nobles travelling in opulent coaches, and simple folk making their way to the capital for various reasons. He could even see small strands of civilization quite far away with huts and serfs trying to control their cattle. It drew a smile to his lips. A lifetime ago, it seemed, Ansel himself had been one of those travellers, a mercenary forever chasing the next thrill, the next monster to slay. He''d travelled the length and breadth of various kingdoms, a restless wanderer drawn to the unknown. He''d lingered in bustling cities, savoured the camaraderie of taverns, and revelled in the freedom of the open road. But that was before he had come to Veralt and decided to take part in the expedition against the larvae. The memory of the monstrous creatures and the devastation they wrought sent a shiver down his spine. He recalled everything from the battle. The way they''d fought against them, and Lord Arzan who had been the central figure, kept the monsters at bay and made sure most of them returned alive. Ansel sighed. The display of Lord Arzan in the fight against the larvae was one of the main reasons why he stayed behind with the guards after the extermination. Sure, it wasn''t the same exhilarating freedom he''d known as a traveller, but this was different. When he was a traveller, hed stopped in a few places from time to time, but it had never been a job. Hed had his freedom by simply travelling, monster hunting and staying at the inn. As they passed yet another cluster of thatched-roof huts nestled amongst rolling fields, Ansel felt a familiar pang of nostalgia. He missed the thrill of the hunt, the adrenaline rush of facing a dangerous creature. But for now, this this wasn''t bad. Especially since he had other plans in his mind. Ansel rubbed the back of his neck. After so long, he felt as if he had a routine, a companionship where hed fit in, and he had even managed to make friends and strengthen his training. Though he''d broken the routine to get to the capital, it felt like a positive change. Travelling had also become repetitive and ordinary for him and it held little appeal. Hed spent years on the road, chasing beasts and duelling with other mercenaries on the road. What ignited a spark in his mind for this trip that he had asked to be one of the guards was the fact that they were going towards the capital. Hed never been to the Lancephil Kingdom''s capital. He wanted to see it, learn more about it and see if whatever he had heard about it was true. One more reason was also Lord Arzan. He wanted to keep a close eye on him. Ansels thoughts were a whirlwind once again. It wasn''t for anything strange. In his mind, he just felt like Lord Arzan had been the person he had been looking for all this time. He hadn''t been disappointed till now. Just the vivid display of a hundred flaming arrows in the air, aimed towards the barbarians kept him on his toes. He had seen Mages from afar, but he never saw anyone showing off such power. It was a sight that he was sure would become a big legend in one of the taverns if he recounted the tale. Moreover, with Lord Arzan there was a mystery. Ansel knew tidbits. Duke''s son, whispered rumours of an ancient household. But the man himself was a cypher. Just his guards were enough proof. He had seen Killian and the others The Enforcers. Their movements were too quick and their reactions inhumane. He saw the power for the first time back in the caves and then every morning on the training grounds. One day, he had even been lucky enough to witness Killian practising what looked suspiciously like magic in the pre-dawn light. His feet had moved fast, sometimes in a blur. There would be a spark around his legs. Also, the knight would have the energy to move with the agility of a black horse and strength twice even after a long training session. Ansel winced as he recalled the duel he had with him and how he had been defeated in less than a minute. Apparently, Killian had grown stronger in the past few months. It was an open secret the guards Enforcers were Arzan''s "special forces," individuals somehow empowered by his magic. Ansel didn''t buy it. He''d seen too much. Men, not Mages, wielding power that defied explanation. Mainly because in his tribe, there were similar techniques; the techniques that he wasnt qualified for. But he had seen enough of them. He didnt know why Arzan knew them, or how he came to empower his guards with them. However, it only proved one thing that he was the man Ansel was looking for. If he could, hed talk about everything with him directly. But Ansel was bidding time in an attempt to prove himself worthy for Lord Arzan, especially with the beast wave that was on the horizon. In any way he was successful and survived the beast wave, hed let Lord Arzan know about his true intentions. sea??h th novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Thus, it was only a matter of time. As he pondered on how to go about it, a guttural shriek suddenly tore through his eardrums as the horse stopped in shock, jolting Ansel from his introspective reverie. His gaze snapped upwards, searching the azure expanse above. A dark mass of feathered shadows blotted out the sun momentarily. Ansel''s blood ran cold. Its a group of scroungers! He shouted out as the carriages behind him stopped. With squinted eyes, he took a better look at it. Monstrous birds with leathery wings and lethal beaks. The scroungers swooped lower, their bald heads adorned with menacing horns like twisted crowns. A spark of lightning passed through the horns as he grimaced. Memories of a past encounter with these electrified nightmares flooded his mind the smell of burnt feathers, the paralysing crackle of lightning in the air that came from their beaks. Due to their ability to use lightning, they were also called storm vultures in some regions. Panic flickered in the eyes of the guards around him, their hands tightening instinctively around their weapons. They were simply Grade 2 beasts, but they weren''t easy to deal with all the lightning around them. A line of arrows erupted from the carriage behind, a desperate attempt to ward off the approaching storm. But the arrows met a horrifying end deflected mid-air by crackling bolts of condensed lightning launched from the scrounger''s horns. Ansel shook his head, not wanting to deal with this at the moment. But there was no way out. He knew the scroungers loved human flesh and maybe, it was their bad luck that they had encountered such a group on the road to the capital. "Shields up!" he yelled. His hand darted towards the sturdy shield strapped to his back. Confusion and fear marred the guard''s faces for a fleeting moment before they sprang into action. Maybe, they wouldn''t be able to react in time if they were ordinary guards, but most of them had the experience of battling the larvae in the nest. They were better prepared to deal with beasts now and a silent understanding passed between them. Soon, shields were raised, forming a wall of steel against the oncoming storm. "Aim for their chests!" Ansel yelled, his voice hoarse but unwavering. Around the ribcage. That''s where their power comes from!" A guard, young and green, hesitated, his brow furrowed in uncertainty. "Their chests? But won''t they just shock us?" Ansel didn''t have time for elaborate explanations. "They channel the lightning through that point!" he said as his hands shook with the sudden adrenaline rush that came. "Disrupt their mana flow, and they''re as vulnerable as any overgrown pigeon!" As the words left his mouth, the scroungers swooped down with ferocious intensity. The guards immediately raised their shields, their swords flashing as they fended off the relentless attack. Despite their efforts, the vulture-like beasts were unnervingly powerful, their talons and beaks tearing through armour and flesh. Lightning flashed around their horns, falling on the guards in an attempt to shock them. Argh! An injured guard cried out as lightning shook his arms, sending shockwaves throughout his body. He dropped his weapon as the scrounger pounced. A bolt of lightning gained Ansels attention before he could focus on the wounded. It illuminated the chaos, making it impossible for him to stay back. Ansel leapt from his horse and swung his spear in a wide arc. The sharp tip sliced cleanly through a scrounger, its blood spraying the ground in crimson. A bolt of lightning came his way, but he kept his distance, using the long handle of his spear to stab the ribcage. As one of the strikes landed, the scrounger cried out in pain and lightning around it was disrupted. Taking the chance, Ansel moved, his spear going through the centre of its bald head as it powerlessly fell to the ground. But before he could savour the kill, another scrounger came towards him at an unearthly speed, its eyes burning with malic for all he could explain. He was about to raise his spear to defend when Killian materialised from behind. He was a blur of motion when his sword struck like a malefic cobra, precise and deadly, cutting down one scrounger after another. For a few seconds, Ansel kept watching Killian, noticing the sparks around his legs. Unlike the scroungers, they were blue, probably using mana. More lightning flew towards Killian as the scroungers saw their comrades dying under his sword, but they weren''t even able to touch him as he jumped around, battling the beaks and horns of the scroungers. Not wanting to stand for long, Ansel joined him, taking turns to slice through them, earning loud screeches from all the fallen scroungers. A few of them flew away, probably fearing their death, but others were persistent. Their amount seemed to be overgrowing maybe it was in his mind, but the scroungers were simply like a storm. Even the sky above seemed to have darkened. But Ansel wasnt alone. The guards had taken their tactic to shield themselves from the deadly lightning and then attack. The pause after every two lightning strikes was to their advantage. He focused back on the screeching bastards that swirled around the sky. With a battle cry that echoed across the battlefield, he lunged. He twisted his body, dodging a retaliatory lightning strike, and brought his spear up in a vicious thrust. The creature screeched in a death throe as he pierced through the ribcage. A lightning strike blasted through, but as he cut off the mana flow, it disrupted all around, burning the scrounger as it plummeted to the ground, a burning carcass. Ansels eyes momentarily got distracted by the smoke. Just then, a loud screech rang out next to him and he didn''t have time to look back as a scrounger attacked. His heart thrummed in his ears as he barely shielded himself. The attack deflected to his shield and pushed him backwards. His upper arm gushed as a talon managed to tear it and blood gushed out of it. Fuck! It hurts! Ansel whispered to himself, but the worst part wasnt even that. More screeches rang out and as he looked upwards towards a mountain range, he saw it disappearing due to the sheer number of darn scroungers coming their way. It was a whole wake of them that seemed to be very hungry. Blood rushed to his head as he looked back and forth between all the guards who were busy fighting. He tightened his hold on the shield as another attack of lightning came down on him. W-We might not be able to Before he could complete the sentence, a deafening sound came from one of the carriages in the back. A torrent of fire an imagery of a dragon erupted. The entire area shone in bright orange and yellow. The incandescent colours incinerated almost all the scroungers in its path. The heat was intense. Ansels skin burnt from its impact as all the guards covered themselves with the cracked and burnt shields. He didn''t know if the flames in the shape of the dragon were controlled as they only consumed the scroungers. He slowly peeked up from the shield. The heat was still there, almost as if attempting to choke them with the burnt smell of the scroungers. Trees around were burnt, with leaves turned grey and smoke filling the sky, replacing the mad group of scroungers. He looked at the ground to see all of them dead. Their lethal eyes or the lightning-powered beaks were nowhere to be found; simple black blocks, all of them. Ansel slowly turned around to meet with Lord Arzans glare. The man stood tall as the monstrous flame slowly calmed down. Before anyone could even catch their breath, his voice came loud, "Move now, or more will come!" he yelled. "Harvest the bodies of those on the road." Ansel, panting and covered in blood, couldn''t help but grin. He shook his head in admiration. Again, the thought slipped into his mind that his choice wasn''t wrong. Lord Arzan was the man he was looking for and the only one strong enough to save his tribe from their potential doom. *** Quite the opposite of the chaos of the scroungers'' attack, the interior of Kai''s carriage was an oasis of calm. Here, Kai hunched over a small table, his brow furrowed in concentration. In his hands, a vial containing a vibrant blue liquid pulsed with an inner light. It was the Blursage extract he had added to a reagent which he managed to make before the journey. The blue liquid soon changed colours to a brick red as it swirled around. A satisfied smile spread across Kai''s face. This was it. With this in his hand, he wouldn''t be controlled by whatever tricks the tower used. He doubted they had advanced spells to get into his mind and even if they did, they wouldn''t use it against him. At least, he was confident of that. Still, it was always a good thing to prepare, especially against what might be a group of Mages dealing with dead mana and having ways to use it to power themselves. His musings were interrupted by a sudden shout from outside the carriage. "We can see the capital''s walls, Lord Arzan! We''re almost there!" Kai glanced out the window, a wave of emotions washing over him. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 77. The capital The dusk settled after their long day, but something inside him said the night would be longer. He leaned against the plush interior of the carriage, glued to the passing tableau. They passed a few roads, took a few turns and were finally at the mouth of the capital of Lancephil Kingdom, Hermil. A steady stream of carriages choked the streets, each one a microcosm of its own. Opulent coaches emblazoned with noble heraldry glided past, their occupants shrouded in haughty indifferencecarts laden with overflowing sacks of vegetables and boisterous vendors hawking their wares created movement and noise. A guard stood at the intersection, his bored expression momentarily breaking into a flicker of respect as he saw Kais sigil in the front. The guards had been notified of their arrival and how the sigil looked from their letters that were shared back and forth, or simply the guard didn''t care much since the exterior of the carriage and the entourage was proof of their identity. But soon, the guard walked closer and Killian briefly exchanged words with him. With a curt nod, he gestured them towards a less congested route, "Head straight down, Baron Kellius. The Royal palace lies at the end." He saw Killian nod at that and started moving forward. As the carriage rolled, he remembered what he had learnt about the capitals districts the grand artisan district, a playground for the wealthy and creative, the stoic noble district, home to the city''s elite, the bustling central district, the heart of commerce, churches and trade, and the infamous lower district, a warren of poverty and desperation otherwise known as the slums. It was a planned city, and he was curious whether he could use anything from it for Veralt. Kai had mostly lived in the Sorcerer''s Tower and most of the cities in the world in his era were desolate, a lot of people even moved underground to survive the fiends. There was nothing planned and even if there were places of civilization, they were mostly broken and barely working. He had only learned of the great cities of the past, even a few where only Mages lived, making it a heavenly place for those seeking knowledge and strength. If he was right, Hermil itself would be one of the early places where Mages would gather in huge numbers in the first golden era of magic. There was still over a century to it. As their carriage weaved through the throngs of people, Kai observed the diverse faces that streamed by on the streets. Well-dressed men and women with an air of self-importance brushed shoulders with labourers whose faces bore the marks of hard work. Compared to other places, there were also more non-humans here. He caught more than a few different races walking by, a few hiding their identity with robes and others displaying it freely. Elves with their pointed ears, dwarves with gruff voices, nagas with their tall frames and slit pupils, trying to blend in with the others. He was surprised to see a few of them as he was seeing them for the first time. A lot of them had grown extinct by his time, especially the ones with low populations as dead mana had simply turned them into monsters. Occasionally, he would sense mana from a few figures walking by, clearly hinting at their connection with either one of the noble families or the Archine Tower. Actra was the only Mage he had seen after regressing till a month or so back, now he was in a city full of them. A pang of concern flickered in Kai''s chest. Despite the undeniable vibrancy, there was a subtle tension beneath the surface. The smiles on the faces of the wealthy seemed strained, a hint of worry clinging to their eyes. The common folk, while diverse, looked burdened. Even the festive street vendors seemed to peddle their wares with a touch of desperation. The words Malden had told him about Veralt doing better than a lot of places echoed in his mind. On top of famines and growing prices, he was sure that Hermil wasn''t an easy place to live financially, given that it was the capital. With those thoughts, the carriage rolled towards the artisan district and he took sight of one of the arenas around the capital. They were made to hold both official and unofficial fights with a large audience capacity. The arena they passed by was a circular structure made up of large stone blocks with a wall surrounding the fighting arena. Kai wondered if they were made for hot-headed nobles or Mages to train and compete, but his thoughts died when he saw something even more interesting. The Archine Tower. It was a colossal edifice of white stone that seemed to scrape the heavens, being one of the tallest structures he had seen. With [Hawk eyes], he examined the intricate carving on its surface, wards to bolster its defences. Even from afar, its grandeur and majesty captured the imagination of anyone passing by. His eyes were glued to the insignia, a stylised gryphon with outstretched wings that was carved on it. It wasn''t as grand as the Sorcerer''s Tower and he even felt like the carvings on it weren''t the best compared to what he had seen, but it was still better than what he had expected. He slowly raised his evaluation of the tower a bit. As they drew closer, the imposing silhouette of the Royal palace loomed into view. Its gleaming golden gates, flanked by statues of former kings and queens, made him lean further into his seat. They stopped by the gates. Killian emerged from the carriage first, "We''ll be staying in the guest quarters reserved for visiting nobles, Lord Arzan," he informed Kai. "An audience with the King has been arranged for the morrow, as per protocol." Kai nodded, a question lingering on his lips. "The palace? Why?" "While the Duke does possess one estate within the capital walls, it remains inaccessible to you at this time. Well, its mostly because Lord Arzans just a member in name for now. We asked for permission from the steward who handles the estate here, but he never got back to us. Until we build our estate, we would have to stay here." Kai''s brow furrowed in understanding. He didn''t need Killian to elaborate. It wasn''t a bad thing for him per se. His brother didn''t like him and even if he hadn''t met him, his opinion of him was surely the negatives. If he could remove himself completely from him, it was for the best. With a shared glance, the two Mages who had escorted them throughout the journey approached Kais carriage. He let Killian hold the door as he stepped outside. The fresh air hit his nostrils immediately as he felt the mana in the air, fresher than Veralt by a small margin. "Lord Arzan," Klan began, his voice laced with a hint of urgency. "We should head to the tower." Kai cast a hesitant look towards the darkening sky. Dusk had settled over the city, painting the horizon in hues of orange and purple. "This late in the hour?" he questioned, a hint of amusement in his voice. "The tower Mages in charge wouldn''t be particularly thrilled with a late-night interrogation, would they?" The two Mages exchanged a nervous glance. A beat of silence hung in the air before one of them spoke again. "Very well, then," he conceded. "We shall proceed at dawn. You would probably want this investigation over with as soon as possible." Kai offered a noncommittal nod, the Mages'' peculiar eagerness piquing his curiosity. Their hurriedness felt out of place, almost forced. But before he could voice his suspicions, Jacks cleared his throat, his gaze flickering to one of the carriages. It was the one where they had kept the Blursage. "Speaking of which," Jacks said. "May I inquire about your intentions regarding the additional substance you brought along? Blursage Why?" Kai had anticipated this question since it was inevitable they were going to wonder about the detour they had taken. "Ah," he said, a nonchalant smile gracing his lips. "This? It''s a mere matter of dealing with the merchant who provided us with our transportation and mercenaries. Blursage extract fetches a good price. I am sure you know that." sea??h th ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The Mages exchanged another glance. They both nodded slowly, seemingly satisfied with his explanation. With a mumbled farewell, they turned and melted back into the throng of palace guards, leaving Kai and Killian standing alone before the imposing golden gates. Internally, Kai chuckled. These Mages seemed blissfully unaware of Blursage''s true potential. Sure, it had its uses in potions a harmless speed enhancer at best. But its real power, the key to his plan, only came to light after the third Mage war, thanks to a rogue master alchemist and his forbidden research. From what he had learned from Malden about the usage of Blursage, he doubted even Magus Veridia would know of the secret properties of it. Even on the off chance she did, he would have enough plans thought out. It was certain that those two would be telling everything about him to whoever was going to conduct the investigation tomorrow, but whatever he had shown them till now, it had all been for a reason and if he was right, the tower wouldn''t be seeing him as someone they could push around. Obviously, there was a chance they would think of him as a threat, but in their eyes, his strength would be at the peak of the second circle, maybe they would guess he''s a third-circle Mage. With a Magus in charge and several others with similar strength, he doubted they would think of him highly. At least till the time he got enough strength to not care about them at all. He shrugged the thoughts in his mind and started walking towards where Killian was moving along with the rest of the guards. *** Kai sported a tailored tunic woven from deep blue silk, its edges embroidered with silver thread that shimmered. A soft leather belt cinched his waist, and a matching cloak hung gracefully over his shoulders. He looked at himself in the mirror and smiled. With the exercises he was doing and his surge in power, he had been looking better and better. It wasn''t something he particularly cared about, but appearances always helped. A sharp rap on the door startled him from his thoughts about the day. Lord Arzan, came Killian''s muffled voice. "Are you ready to depart?" "Almost," Kai called back, slipping the vial of the potion out of his tunic. He uncorked the vial and downed the cool liquid in one swift gulp. A surge of energy coursed through his veins, his senses tingling with heightened awareness. He picked up a sealed envelope from the table. With a final smoothing of his cloak, Kai opened the door. Killian stood there, his face a neutral mask as usual. But after a good nights sleep, the knight looked a bit relaxed maybe the tiniest bit. "We are ready to go," he announced. "The Mages who will escort us await in the carriage bay." "Excellent, lead the way." The walk to the carriage bay was a blur of opulent hallways and stern-faced guards. As they reached the stable, two Mages clad in the distinctive crimson robes of the Archine Tower stood beside a sleek black carriage. Their expressions were unreadable, but Kai sensed a nervous tension emanating from them. "Lord Arzan," Klan bowed curtly. "We are at your service." Kai offered them a nod, his smile unwavering. "Shall we proceed, then?" He climbed into the carriage, Killian following suit. The archine Mages settled into a separate carriage behind them, a silent black shadow trailing their path. As the carriage rolled out of the palace gates and into the bustling city streets, Killian spoke, his voice laced with unease. "I don''t know what to expect, Lord Arzan," he confessed. "From what I''ve gathered within the palace walls, investigations conducted by the Archine Tower rarely go well for the accused. They have a reputation for deflecting blame, for twisting narratives. I heard they can be worse than even nobles and it was hard to find a sane person among the power-hungry lot. They''ve already rejected the notion of Actra turning into a monster. They''ll likely try to pin it all on you." Kai leaned back in his seat, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "Let them try," he said coolly. "I''ve come prepared." Still, Lord Arzan. You are young and you haven''t been of age for long," he said. "Now that youre a noble and a Mage, every word of yours weighs a lot, and you need to be careful. The Archine Tower will try its best to blame you for Actra''s death. They would try to get you to say what they want and try to end the matter. I know. They want a scapegoat and Im perfect for it. Fits all their boxes, but I have got a plan, Killian. Killian furrowed his brow and glanced back. "But shouldn''t you try to gather some support within the nobility? Surely some connections would hold more weight during the investigation." Kai shook his head, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. "Support? Among nobles? Killian, I have no friends in these gilded halls. My own brother can''t be trusted. Besides," he continued, "compliance wouldn''t help. They''d just send more Mages to harass me, and frankly, I''m not eager to deal with their ilk. Moreover, I have an advantage." "Advantage?" Killian echoed, intrigued by the shift in Kai''s demeanour. "Exactly," Kai replied, a hint of excitement creeping into his voice. "These Archine Tower mages are probably used to getting their way, used to bend others to their will. I saw it with those two in the back when they appeared in our estateC arrogance masked by a thin veneer of courtesy." "True, but perhaps the higher-ranking Mages are different," Killian cautioned. "Perhaps," Kai conceded, "but even then, they likely see me as a greenhorn, a liar who can be easily bullied into submission. That, Killian, is exactly the underestimation I need." A slow smile spread across Killian''s face. He began to see the gears turning in Kai''s mind, the cunning plan taking shape. "So, you''re going to flip the script?" Kai''s grin widened. "Precisely. They didn''t call me here to be investigated. I came here to investigate them. Do they want a scapegoat? I''ll give them a target the corrupt practices within the very walls of the Archine Tower." - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 78. The Extravagant Tower Kai squinted up at the Archine Tower. When he saw it yesterday, Kai couldnt help but look fixedly at the structure of the tower. Today, there was little to no difference; the only thing was that the tower was extremely close to him. The details he saw through [Hawk eyes] were now an arm''s distance away. The runes that were etched to the surface garnered his attention immediately. The lines and arcane symbols on the tower clearly protected it from magical attacks and provided a sheen of physical defences, but he had to examine it closely to know what type of spells might be able to break it. It was far from the best work, but it was still done intricately, making him respect the Mage who had etched the runes. He noticed the material itself shimmered faintly, giving out a glow. He wanted to extend his arm and know how the material felt against his skin, but shadows of two figures came from behind. He slowly turned around to see two relaxed faces. It was amusing. The entire time they had been around him, they maintained facades of normalcy, but now there were smiles on their faces. Klan, whod always looked as if he was born with a permanent scowl on his face, looked as good as a Mage who had discovered the way to harness the power of the moon. Lord Arzan. Jacks bowed, his voice dripping with (forced) politeness. We are ready to proceed. Kai nodded at that. His eyes fell somewhere else when he noticed how the courtyard before the tower was unusually crowded. He was too focused on the tower to notice it before. Carriages like he saw while on his way to the capital were there different designs lined the periphery. He doubted all of them belonged to nobles which meant they were of Mages. Klan looked in Killians direction before clearing his throat. Knight Killian needs to stay here, he said. Well go in with you, Jacks was quick to follow up. Kai nodded to Killian who immediately understood. Ill be by the carriage. Yes, this might take a while. Jacks, why dont you suggest a nearby tavern for Killian? He enjoys a good stew. Jacks looked flustered as he nodded. There are a few good taverns in he pointed out the nearby taverns, gesturing at the faraway streets and which way he would have to go. The Mage looked like it was below him to give directions to a tavern, but he handled it well before turning towards Kai. "Excellent. Then shall we begin?" He gestured towards the towering entrance. Without another word, Kai stepped through the imposing archway, the cool stone walls enveloping him in a sense of hushed reverence. The interior of the ground floor was a vast, circular chamber, its spaciousness emphasised by the high ceilings that seemed to disappear into the shadows above. Polished marble tiles gleamed underfoot, reflecting the soft luminescence emanating from strategically placed magical crystals. Plush armchairs and ornately carved tables were arranged in conversation nooks around the perimeter. His keen eyes scanned the room, taking in every detail before they fixed on the walls. Commanding statues stood there. "See those statues?" Klan asked in a low voice. "That''s Merlin Mydran himself in the front, first Tower Master. He was one of the few Maguses in our history and had been known to take on a serpentine hydra by himself in a bottle." His eyes glimmered as he pointed at the statue of a man with dead eyes and a long beard. "That book he''s got? It''s known as one of the foundational books in understanding magic that he wrote and is treated as one of the rarest and strongest spell books all over the world." Jacks chimed in with a curt nod towards the woman beside Mydran. "Elara Nightsong," he said, his voice laced with awe. "They say she could summon a storm with a flick of her wrist. See that orb in her hand? Pure elemental magic, bottled up for eternity." He tried to think if had heard of them, but they were another two names that had been forgotten by even history books. Their eyes swept over the remaining figures. "The others," Jacks continued, "aren''t as well known among the commoners, but their deeds are whispered in hushed tones throughout the tower''s halls. Each one a legend, a master of their craft and all of them had been associated with our tower at some point." Klan let out a low whistle. "Imagine the power they wielded. Makes your stomach churn, doesn''t it?" Kai didnt say anything but continued to look around. Scattered around the place were displays that hinted at different things. Enchanted globes spun on pedestals, swirling with small-in-size objects. Glass vials, filled with shimmering liquids of different colours, sat in one place. The shelves themselves garnered his attention. Here and there, from the small squared-shaped windows-like structures, light streamed in; making the entire floor seem magical. They moved forward to one of the hallways. "How old is this tower?" he inquired. Klan cleared his throat. "The Archine Tower stands as an epitome of magical knowledge for over three hundred years, Lord Arzan," he explained. "Commissioned by a former king, of course, its construction was a monumental undertaking, requiring the combined talents of the most skilled Mages and artisans of the age. The place almost brought me to my knees when I first visited. It was that beautiful But it''s now common since I have been here for years now." Kai noticed how both of them were relaxed around here. The way they talked to the way they walked in the front it all screamed that they felt safe. By the way they talked about the tower, they had a lot of respect for it and it was genuine. It was clear that their lives have revolved around here. However, he could only regard them as greenhorns, not even proper Mages which simply meant that the training of Mages in this era was vastly different from what he knew of. As they moved deeper into the tower, Kai noticed different groups of Mages walking past them or clustered around in groups of four and five, looking both nervous and excited as they whispered to each other. A few of them glanced at Kai, but their eyes didn''t stay on him for long. He noticed a pattern to their robes; different groups wore different colours a matter of rank, maybe. Most of them wore white robes while there were a good number of crimson ones like the ones Klan and Jacks wore. He saw one green-robed Mage momentarily before they crossed another hallway. He guessed that the white was for novices, crimson for apprentices and green for adepts. None of the Mages till the apprentice rank seemed to be taught how to shield their mana from leaking out and it was easy for him to gauge their strengths. Even the adept he had seen passing by was barely able to do it. Though, he was better than others. He knew a few towers had that system to identify Mages, but even then, the number of Mages around the tower alarmed him. He thought back to the carriages and decided to ask. "Is there an event of some sort taking place today?" sea??h th ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Klan, with a hint of pride in his voice, replied, "Indeed, Lord Arzan. Today marks the annual day of the Arcane Ascensus the tower''s prestigious advancement trials." Jacks continued, "The Arcane Ascensus or just Ascensus happens every year; is a rigorous series of tests. All Mages could take part and they undergo trials in all aspects of knowledge theory, practical application, and even a deep understanding of magical creatures. It is a comprehensive evaluation, quite hard if you ask me, designed to identify those with the potential to excel in their magical pursuits. Circles are important, yes. But these tests are mainly to evaluate the overall understanding of a Mage and if you do well in it, you can rise in ranks the ones doing the best in the exams had their names plastered all around the tower and the top adepts and savants ask them to be their disciple." A spark of understanding flickered in Kai''s eyes. No wonder these Mages seemed so eager to push through with this investigation. They''d spoken of wanting to improve their ranks, and with the Ascensus taking place today, any delay due to him would throw their meticulously planned schedules into disarray. He was a thorn in their side, a necessary inconvenience to be dealt with before they could focus on their advancement. Their conversation flowed for a few more moments as he asked for a few more details on the Ascensus. Fortunately, both the Mages seemed eager to tell him about how great the tower was and helped fill the gaps in his understanding of how it functioned. Finally, they reached a dead end, a circular platform that seemed to hover slightly above the ground. "The ascension lift," Jacks announced, gesturing towards the platform. Kai stepped closer, looking over the lift. A faint hum resonated through the air, and he could feel a subtle shift in the air pressure a telltale sign of wind magic manipulation. Most likely, an artificial air current was being channelled to create a rising platform. It was a clever, but not particularly elegant solution. The platform wobbled slightly, hinting at the constant input of mana needed to maintain the enchantment. "Marvellous engineering, isn''t it?" Klan beamed, clearly proud of the tower''s innovation. "Developed by the esteemed Magus Veridia herself, in collaboration with a renowned enchantment expert." Kai offered a polite nod, his mind already conjuring a far simpler and more efficient design. He recalled the Sorcerers Tower having multiple lifts and different platforms. They were powered by runes etched onto a central shaft with gears smoothly engaging and disengaging to propel it upwards even a rudimentary application of this concept, fueled by a mana stone, could create a lift operable by anyone, not just mages. His mind went on and on thinking about more designs for a lift. A few who would need magical engineers and the ones he could make himself. As the platform lurched upwards, carrying them to the seventh floor, he again felt the difference between the Mages of this era and him. It wasn''t bad per se, but as magic had been limited to only nobility and other wealthy and connected individuals, society hadn''t developed using magic for a wide number of tasks and the innovation had happened at a snail''s pace. However, he guessed it''s how things developed over centuries. The seventh floor was a distinct disparity to the lower level. The hallway they entered was quiet, the only sounds of their footsteps echoing on the polished stone floor. The air here felt stagnant, devoid of the vibrant hum of magic that had permeated the rest of the tower. Finally, they reached a large, wood-panelled room. Inside, rows of cushioned chairs stood arranged in a semi-circle, facing a vacant pedestal at the head of the room. "Please, Lord Arzan," Jacks gestured towards a seat in the front row. "Have a seat and make yourself comfortable. The interrogators shouldn''t take long. They are usually busy, but should be on their way here." How long will they take? Probably a few minutes. With that information in mind, Kai surveyed the room, his face a neutral mask, but he didn''t forget to show a bit of nervousness in it. He felt an unsettling gaze on him once he had entered the seventh floor, but he didn''t mention it, compiling with the Mages and taking a seat. Jacks scurried around, returning with a steaming cup of tea and a plate piled high with pastries. "Capital delicacy, Lord Arzan," he announced, his voice laced with a forced cheer. "Do try them. A true taste of the city." Kai eyed the refreshments for a beat longer than necessary, taking in the unfamiliar pastries and the swirling steam rising from the teacup. A subtle grimace appeared on his lips, quickly masked by a polite nod. "Thank you," he said, accepting the plate. Kai eyed the tea and pastries with suspicion. Despite their inviting aroma, a faint discordant note warred with his senses. He''d anticipated this, a sour twist in his gut confirming his doubts. Nevertheless, he raised the cup to his lips, the sweet liquid coating his tongue. It wasn''t unpleasant, but a subtle edge lingered, a metallic tang that he easily recognised. It wasn''t poison per se, but it was used in quite a few paralysing agents. He forced himself to swallow, the warmth spreading through him. A prickling sensation began at his fingertips, crawling its way up his arms, a foreign energy attempting to burrow into his mind. But he sat calmly as he waited and soon, the energy was met with resistance. A countervailing force, cool and familiar, surged within him, pushing back the unwelcome intrusion. If he wasn''t being spied upon, he would have a smirk on his face. The potion of Blursage was working, and as expected, the Tower Mages tried to force a truth potion on him. In a way, things have progressed better than he had expected since a truth potion was one of the easiest to dispel. If it was a mind-scrying spell, he would be in a lot more trouble and would have to show off a bit of his strength to pull out of it, but mind magic was hard and mysterious, so he had crossed it out from the possibility. He had still prepared for it, but as he expected, they had gone for a much more common method. As he sat and waited for the truth potion to dispel completely, a soft click echoed through the room as the heavy oak doors creaked open. Kais mind was still foggy, and he knew it might only last for less than a minute before he gained his clarity again. Still, he pushed past it to focus on his interrogators. Three figures entered, their strides measured and their expressions unreadable. He didn''t focus on the two on the sides as his gaze locked on the Mage in the middle. She hadn''t bothered to mask her magic. Maybe as a show of strength, but as she entered, a jolt of energy passed by him, telling him all about her. Her wrinkly hands and face showed her age, but he knew a tremendous power was hidden in her core. Her black hair was tied up in braids and she walked with authority. Kai''s eyes momentarily moved towards her necklace and he realised that the interrogation might just be harder than he had expected. After all, the woman wasn''t an adept or a savant. She was Magus Veridia; Master of the Archine Tower. - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 79. Interrogation Kais eyes lingered on Veridias form a beat longer as he stood up. His mana sense tingled with the potent raw energy that thrummed around her. Kai could feel it in his fingertips that she was powerful. For the first time since he had regressed, he felt like he was standing in front of a Mage who he couldn''t defeat with his current strength. The magus calmly stepped forward, her purple robe flickering behind her. Maybe it was his brain playing tricks, but for a moment, things felt slow. The vibration in the air increased, slightly making his heartbeat grow faster. The constant hum brought him back from the inner battle between the truth potion and the Blursage potion; though his eyes stayed glued on her. As she crossed the threshold into the room, the oppressive aura that had emanated from her lessened as she hid all her energy in her mana heart, her demonstration of strength ending temporarily. Two figures flanked her, both of them shielding their mana from him, but he could guess their strengths by their robes the one on the right wearing a green robe, being an adept and the one on the left wearing a blue robe, probably being a savant. The adept wore a silver signet ring that was a carefully carved star, its lines aligned perfectly while the savant wore the ring with a swirling amethyst pendant that pulsed faintly in time with its wearer''s breathing. Kais eyes went from the two Mages to Veridia, and she was the first one to break the silence. A gentle smile played on her lips as she gestured towards a chair opposite her. "There''s no need to stand, Mage Arzan. Please, take a seat. As you might have probably guessed, I''m Magus Veridia, master of Archine Tower and the witch of the night sky. " Following her introduction, the Mage with the signet ring stepped forward, "Archon Theobald at your service," he said in his deep voice. A third circle adept and learner of the arcane wards." His sharp chin nodded at him slightly. He was the youngest among them, being a middle-aged man and was probably someone who was looked up to as a bright prospect. The other Mage, who had eyes as sharp as obsidian and a mane of fiery red hair, inclined his head in a curt nod. "I am Jasper Miknight," he said, Fourth circle savant and one of the members of the council of the tower." Kai''s ears perked up at that. So, he was going to be interrogated by two members of the council. It''s an honour to meet you all, I''m Baron Arzan Kellius, he replied nonchalantly, showing proper courtesy. He settled himself back on his seat, his eyes roaming through the three Mages before him. All of them took their seats in front of him, a silence descending on them as he waited for them to begin whatever questions they were going to have for him. At the same time, his mind worked to figure out ways to subdue them if they tried to make it a contest of strength. It wasn''t likely, but with Veridia here, he had to plan for everything. Even if he couldn''t face her head-on with the large gap between them, he could still be a worthy opponent. Veridia cleared her throat. "While my schedule is usually packed, a fortunate alignment of events freed up my afternoon. Consider it serendipity that brought us all together today." Her voice was sharp, bold, strong and held years of experience. If a mountain could speak, it would have her voice. Kai wasnt surprised at that, to say the least, and he guessed that she was at least a hundred years old. Yet she looked half of that. A snort escaped Archon. He should be honoured to be in the presence of Magus Veridia. He fidgeted his signet ring. Jasper, the redheaded Mage nodded, his gaze flickering between Kai and Veridia. Indeed. Even if it''s an interrogation, not many get the chance to talk to her. Veridia waved their comments away with a dismissive flick of her wrist. "The circumstances surrounding this case are intriguing. The loss of a third circle mage, particularly one as esteemed as Actra, is a significant blow. That''s why I felt it warranted my attention." Her eyes locked on Kai. There was no hostility in them, but he knew it was a facade of politeness. He barely stopped himself from snorting at the thought of Actra being esteemed. He wasn''t bad at fighting and holding things, but he hadn''t seen anything that might make him esteemed. As if on cue, a parchment materialized near Jasper, its surface glowing visibly. A delicate tendril of energy snaked from his outstretched finger, poised to write words on the parchment. The black ink marked almost every word that was leaving Veridias lips. With that, the interrogation started and Archon bristled. He had a cold glare that landed squarely on Kai. "Explain yourself, young man," he said, "How, precisely, did you manage to kill Mage Actra?" Kai opened his mouth to respond. He had thought of this question before he had thought of answers. The right ones. But before he could utter a word, Veridia intervened. Her hand rose in a placating gesture, her gaze silencing Archon with a quiet strength. "Patience, Archon. Accusations can wait. First, we need a clearer picture of the events that transpired. Arzan, would you be so kind as to recount the details of your encounter with Actra? Youre allowed to picture what exactly happened with him. From the start. Her request hung in the air, a silent invitation for Kai to tell his side of the story. The accusation still lingered, heavy in the air, but for the moment, Veridia had granted him a reprieve. The parchment shimmered expectantly. Kai met Archon''s glare with a measured smile, his mind racing. As he looked at Veridia, she gave him an expectant look. He understood the game they were playing. The hostile accusations from Archon and Jasper; the opposite of Veridia''s seeming neutrality, were designed to throw him off guard, to make him feel safe with Magus so hed blurt out anything he hid. The truth simulant would do the rest of the job and he had to say it was a good strategy, but sadly for them, it wouldnt work. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Perhaps you haven''t considered all the facts, Mage Archon," Kai began, his voice calm and collected. "I assure you, I had no desire to harm Actra. In fact, it was the other way around." Veridia''s brow furrowed slightly, she leaned forward. Her lips pursed as she clasped her hands on the table in front of them. Jasper''s disdainful expression remained unchanged, while Archon''s scowl deepened. "Explain yourself," he said, his voice carrying a sharp tint. Kai took a deep breath, his gaze locking onto Archon''s. For a moment, he focused and found that his voice simmered with magic and he felt the tension inside of him growing. It was either a spell to make him restless or fear him. He took a calm breath, dispelling it before he opened his mouth. "Actra," he started, enunciating each word carefully, "was in the service of my father, the previous Duke. When I inherited my Barony, my father tasked him to be my retainer for his remaining service to assist me with growing my newly obtained fief. However, even then, I sensed a darkness beneath his affability." The parchment shimmered faintly as Jasper, seemingly unfazed, began inscribing the first lines of Kai''s narrative. "There were inconsistencies," Kai continued, his voice steady. "He subtly pushed me towards reckless spending, attempting to saddle me with debt. Back then, naive and trusting, I allowed myself to be manipulated, thinking it to be for the better of the territory." He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. Archon slammed his fist on the table. "Inconsistencies? What kind of flimsy excuse is that?" His lips twitched but Kai shook his head, unfazed. He pressed on. "Over the months, Actra''s behaviour became increasingly erratic. It prompted me to investigate further. What I discovered was a disturbing web of deceit." He paused, letting the tension build. The Mages were playing a game, but Kai had been the one to manipulate it better. His voice control and his eyes supported his story. "Actra was in collusion with the Tradeheart merchant association. They aimed to cripple me with debt, seize my farmlands and mines." Jasper''s hand moved with unnatural speed across the parchment, the quill seemingly etching words by itself. "Though they initially succeeded," Kai continued, "I managed to extricate myself from their clutches. And began my own investigation," he added, a smile flickering on his lips. "I uncovered evidence of the Tradeheart''s involvement in highly illegal activities." He reached into his satchel, retrieving a worn envelope. He flipped it open and pulled out a stack of documents, his gaze didnt move from Archon as he placed them in front of him slowly. The parchment beside Jasper vibrated slightly, but the inscription remained unseen. Veridia''s eyes moved towards the documents, she looked surprised? Couldnt say as she hid her emotions with her neutral face. But neither of the other Mages made a move to read them. "What does this have to do with Actra''s demise?" Jasper finally spoke. "When I confronted him," Kai replied, his gaze meeting Archon''s unflinchingly, "the man transformed. Not like using a temporary spell to change shape, mind you, but a grotesque creature." He shuddered, a wave of genuine fear momentarily replacing the resolve in his eyes. It was of course a show, but his acting wasn''t bad. At least he hoped so. "It rampaged with high rage, intent on destroying everything in its path, including me. And I was right in front of him." A heavy silence came after his words. "Self-defense, then," Archon stated blankly. Kai looked at the mans emerald eyes. "That''s precisely how it went." Absolute nonsense! You expect us to believe this fantastical tale?" he spat, his voice dripping with disbelief. "He''s lying through his teeth!" Kai couldn''t help but chuckle internally. Here they were, the ones who''d administered a truth serum, accusing him of fabrication. The irony was delicious. "There''s no reason for me to lie," he countered, his voice calm and steady. "And besides, there are witnesses." Jasper scoffed. "Witnesses? Your retainers or the ones working for you, no doubt. Easily swayed or bribed." Undeterred, Kai reached into his envelope again, this time pulling out a stack of parchment tied with a red ribbon. "These," he declared, placing them on the table with a decisive thud, "are sworn witness reports. Not just from my retainers. And these reports, they act as good evidence according to the law of the kingdom." Magus Veridia, look at this young man lie! These are his people. His lackeys! You These people work for you, dont they? Kai huffed. "Several saw Actra transform. Travelling merchants, a traveller named Ansel passed through the territory and even a mercenary group who happened to be in the vicinity. Hardly my ''lackeys''." Archon remained silent, his gaze flickering between Kai and the documents. Jasper, however, still harboured doubts. "And how can we believe these reports are anything but fabricated lies?" he challenged. Kai met his glare head-on. "Read them," he challenged back. "You''ll find testimonies from independent witnesses. If you wish, these individuals can be questioned directly." Another moment of silence descended upon the room. Jasper''s fiery retort died in his throat as he stared at the reports. Archon stroked his chin thoughtfully. Kai had clearly prepared for this interrogation. They probably hadn''t anticipated such meticulousness. Veridia, however, remained the most curious of the three. She had skimmed the reports all the while her expressions remained the same. When her eyes met Kai''s again, he knew she was about to ask an important question. "There''s one point you haven''t addressed," she stated, her voice devoid of accusation but laced with genuine curiosity. "Even with witnesses, something doesn''t quite add up. Actra was a third-circle Mage. Even assuming your story of a demonic transformation is true, his power would have been formidable. Yet, you, a second circle mage, supposedly defeated him. And you havent been trained by the tower or anyone, but we will come back to it later. Explain that discrepancy first." Kai held her gaze, a faint smirk playing on his lips. He knew the most critical part of his story was yet to come. The truth about his victory over Actra, the secret that had him walking into this lion''s den with such confidence, was about to be revealed. Veridia cranked up the pressure a notch. Her aura, a potent storm brewing just beneath the surface, pressed down on Kai. While his outward expression strained, a sense of perverse satisfaction played behind his eyes. Lowering his rank to a second circle mage for this interrogation had been a gamble since he didn''t know if there was anyone in the tower who would be able to dive deeper into his mana to know his truth strength, but it seemed to be paying off. But then, he thought about the question. He couldn''t reveal it was the Mana Bane. An accusation of dealing with forbidden poisons would complicate things further. Truth, as he knew, could be a double-edged sword easily twisted to fit an agenda. So, he needed a different approach. "Before this whole incident, he was tasked with clearing a monster nest. Actra sustained a serious injury during the fight." He paused, letting the implication sink in. The story would made more sense with a wounded and vulnerable Mage. "Now, when he transformed," Kai continued, using the neutral term to avoid any immediate accusation of demonic possession. It seemed like a desperate push against his weakened state. But it backfired. Unstable and chaotic, his own mana turned violent, exploding him from within. My fire spells might have triggered it too. The lie hung heavy in the air, yet none of them seemed completely convinced. Veridia''s expression remained mostly unreadable, while the other two Mages masked their emotions well. They believed he couldn''t shake the effect of the truth potion, its power forcing them to accept his narrative, even if parts didn''t quite fit. The reports corroborated his story they could verify the monster hunt, even Actra''s injury. A tense silence stretched between them. Kai, capitalizing on the awkward lull, decided to go on the offensive. "Now that I''ve explained myself," he said, his voice firm, "I have a few questions of my own." Veridia and the two Mages exchanged surprised glances. "Questions?" Jasper was quick to ask. What? Veridia questioned. Without missing a beat, Kai launched into his list. "Why was a Mage under your tower so hostile towards me, someone he was supposed to serve as a retainer?" He paused, letting the accusation hang in the air. "There''s a law in the kingdom, isn''t there? One that holds the tower liable for their Mages?" He pressed on, his voice gaining momentum. "And even if I did ''attack'' him," Kai added, "the fact remains, he transformed into a demon. Doesn''t that tell you something? A Mage of the adept rank, an esteemed one of the tower turning into a demon. I believe that''s a far bigger problem here." Kai forced them onto the defensive, exposing a potential chink in the tower''s armour. Whether they were truly invested in uncovering the truth behind Actra''s demise, or simply trying to pin the blame on a convenient scapegoat, remained to be seen. But one thing was certain his gamble had just raised the stakes in this high-powered game. Kai saved his most potent question for last. He reached into his seemingly bottomless pouch once more, this time retrieving a slim stack of paper tied with a yellow ribbon. "Finally," he said, his voice ringing with accusation. "Who in the tower was trying to have me killed?" He slammed the letters onto the table, the force echoing in the tense silence. The dates on the worn parchment were damning communication between someone from the tower and Actra, predating even Kai''s awakening as a Mage. This wasn''t mere happenstance. His gaze locked with Veridia''s, a challenge burning in his eyes. "Is the esteemed Archine Tower now a breeding ground for assassins rather than Mages?" - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 80. Giving it back A suffocating silence engulfed the room as Kai launched his final salvo. He could feel his pulse everywhere as he became hyper-aware of his environment. A domineering aura clung to his shoulders, pushing him down on the ground. Had he overplayed his hand? Maybe maybe not; questions rose to his mind. He''d anticipated a hostile interrogation, perhaps even a touch of physical intimidation, but Veridia''s sheer presence was a force he hadn''t expected. Still, retreat wasn''t an option. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Actra and by extension, the tower had clearly marked him for death. Whether Actra''s demonic transformation was a desperate act or a preordained outcome, the fact remained his accomplices, those who sanctioned his demise, resided within these very walls. Were they a rogue faction, harbouring secrets that shouldnt be said? Or was the rot deeper, infecting the very core of the tower? Kai couldn''t sense any taint of dead mana, the signature of such dark magic, but that didn''t guarantee its absence. Maybe there are practitioners in the tower? Finally, the tension shattered as her presence left him. Archon got to his feet, a half-formed spell crackling at his fingertips. But before the hostile magic could coalesce, Veridia intervened. A wave of her hand, subtle yet obvious, sent a ripple through the air, dissolving the nascent spell and forcing the enraged Mage back into his seat. Veridia''s gaze, calm and collected the entire time, now glinted with a cold fury. The parchment beside Jasper, previously still, began to writhe and twist as if imbued with a life of its own, etching furious strokes in response to Kai''s words. "Accusations," she hissed, "are heavy and presumptuous. Do you have any idea of the weight you carry, young man? You are treading on dangerous ground, making claims that could bring the full censure of the tower upon your head." Kai held her gaze unwavering, his own anger simmering beneath the surface. "I''m not accusing the tower, Just the one who seeks my demise. And I have proof." Silence reigned once more as Veridia unfolded the letters, her expression unreadable. Each rustle of the parchment echoed in the tense atmosphere. No names were mentioned, but the origin - the tower itself was unmistakable. The contents were simple, giving Actra the task of eliminating Arzan and framing it as an accident. There were even details of how they were going to handle it and how since Arzan had lost out on the Duke''s territory, he was powerless and the crown wouldn''t bother with his death. Veridia''s expressions became more conflicted as she read. Kai had not only survived the interrogation but had turned the tables, forcing the tower onto the defensive. The truth, a blessing in disguise, now hung precariously between them. The gamble, fraught with risk, had paid off for now. But the true test was yet to come. Why did Actra keep the letters? Whether out of arrogance or carelessness, mattered little now. These were his trump cards, and they''d landed with a resounding thud. He did wonder if Veridia was simply going to burn them with a spell. It was an outcome he had thought of and had already prepared against. Other than making copies of these, he was also ready to block out any spell heading for the letters. Even if he wasn''t as strong as her, he was capable of blocking out one spell from her and rushing out with the letters. Veridia''s face, previously guarded, darkened as she finished reading. The other Mages, their earlier hostility replaced by unease, exchanged nervous glances. Kai watched them, hoping to ignite in his chest. Veridia finally looked up from the letters. "I assure you," she stated, her voice taut. "I do not know this contract. Actra must have been acting of his own volition." Kai''s lips curled into a sceptical smile. "Someone in the tower knew. And that someone is still a Mage right in here." He barely stopped himself from saying Maybe in the room with us, and pressed on, pushing his advantage. "The bigger issue," he continued, his voice rising slightly, "is that he transformed into a demon and attacked me. That warrants an investigation, wouldn''t you agree? The church, the crown...they wouldn''t take kindly to news of a demonic entity within the tower''s ranks, especially when it targeted a noble." A pointed glance at the parchment writing everything down made him smile. "Speaking of the crown, I have an audience with the King in a few hours. I''m pretty sure he would be interested in this." Archon, the one with the signet ring, let out a huff. "You speak a lot, boy," he growled, his voice laced with barely concealed menace. "Second circle Mages are wise to know their place. There''s a time to speak and a time to be silent." Kai met his glare head-on, his jaw set defiantly. "I''m not just a Mage. I''m also the son of a former Duke, a lord in my own right. Is that a threat? Because it can be interpreted either way." The Archon visibly paled. Veridia, however, remained the most composed figure in the room. A hint of a smile played on her lips, a smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes. Kai''s insides churned with a nervous anticipation. From everything he had learned from Malden and Killian, Mages and nobility didn''t have the best of harmony and were often against each other with nobility trying to use them for their power and Mages not wanting to be dragged around. The crown hung in the middle, balancing both sides. The church was the third participant in this game of power struggles with them not having a lot of power, but having the biggest reach with most people following one religion. If it really got out that the tower was housing a demonic creature with potentially more of them present inside it, it would be the biggest scandal of the century. Especially one amidst a struggle for succession for the next king. Once he actually thought about it, Kai realised he might have the power to change the whole outcome of the succession simply by talking about this scandal. Obviously, he didn''t have any plans for it right now, but it was his best move to drag it as much as he could. Silence stretched, thick and heavy, before Veridia finally spoke. "My visit here," she began, her voice low and measured, "has proven to be more enlightening than anticipated." Kai''s heart hammered against his ribs. Was this a good sign, or was she simply toying with him? Veridia continued, her gaze moving over the documents on the table. "The evidence you''ve provided," she stated, "while unconventional, is adequate. It paints a clear picture of Actra as a criminal who acted in his interests, working with a connection within the tower for his personal gain." Relief washed over Kai, a wave so powerful it nearly knocked him off balance. They weren''t dismissing his claims entirely. "The tower will conduct its own investigation," she went on, "into Actra''s activities, including finding the individual he corresponded with. Additionally, we will compensate you for the inconvenience and risk you''ve endured." A flicker of surprise crossed Kai''s face. It was moving smoother than he had expected. "However," Veridia added, her voice firm. "We require a detailed report from you regarding the demonic entity you encountered. It''s crucial for our own investigation. And for you to not speak about it until we finish our investigations." The two other Mages bristled at her words, but Kai barely noticed. This was a far better outcome than he''d dared to hope for. With a sigh of relief, he straightened in his chair. By the looks of it, they didn''t want him to swear an oath to stay quiet, so he didn''t have a reason to say no. "Of course," he readily agreed, a genuine smile spreading across his face. "I would be happy to provide a detailed report. Though, I would hope this investigation doesn''t require another trip all the way to the capital. And if it does," he added, a glint in his eyes. "Perhaps the tower representatives will be more courteous this time around." A tense silence hung in the air before Veridia, to his surprise, chuckled softly. "Courtesy," she mused, "is a concept we can certainly discuss at a later date. But for now, Mage Arzan," she said, inclining her head slightly. "Consider this matter settled." Kai rose from his chair. He may have walked into the lion''s den, but he''d emerged not just unscathed, but with a cautious truce forged. The game was far from over, but for now, he''d played his hand skillfully, forcing the tower to acknowledge the darkness that festered within its walls. He wondered if he should take charge and talk about aiding the defence against the beast wave, but decided not to do it. He had other plans for it and even if he was going to get some aid from them, he didn''t want to overdo them since it would come with his own problems. A satisfied smirk played on Kai''s lips as Veridia subtly promised to ensure the other Mages learned a valuable lesson about courtesy. Gathering his evidence back into his robe, he prepared to make his exit. Just as he was about to ask for his leave, Veridia''s emerald eyes twinkled with an unexpected glint. "There''s one loose thread to discuss, Mage Arzan," she said. Kai''s heart skipped a beat. Had she seen through his potion? "What do you mean?" he managed to ask, feigning ignorance. "Your awakening as a Mage," Veridia stated, her gaze unwavering. "Our records show you were deemed incapable during the standard testing conducted by your family due to mana vein blockage. And if I''m not mistaken, this awakening happened quite recently." Kai cursed inwardly. They had a database. Or maybe a report on him specifically, detailing his failed test. "Indeed," he admitted, schooling his features into a mask of nonchalance. "Fortunately, I was able to come into my inheritance recently." This inheritance excuse, the same one he''d heard from Actra, felt flimsy, but it was all he had. Fortunately, any kind of Mage inheritances were a personal matter historically and he won''t be asked too much about it. "Part of this inheritance," he continued, his voice firm, "addressed my issues and allowed me to manifest my powers. It was a personal matter," he added pointedly, "and I wouldn''t be comfortable discussing the specifics. It is fine for you to know that it helped me take my first steps as a Mage I already had years of knowledge from books my interest isnt new in the magical arts, you see. Thanks to that, I was able to progress fast and enter the second circle in just a few months." He kept a keen eye on the Mages as he spoke. As expected, their reactions were a mixed bag. Both Archon and Jasper''s eyes widened in envy, a flicker of longing crossing their features. Even Veridia''s stoic facade faltered for a moment, a hint of greed glinting in her emerald depths. This inheritance. What exactly was it? Kai had questioned Killian about it, his supposed guardian retainer, but the knight remained clueless. Yet, these Mages knew. And the hunger in their eyes spoke volumes of the power this supposed inheritance held. Suddenly, the interrogation room felt less like a trial and more like a den of treasure hunters scenting a hidden fortune. Kai, for the first time, felt uneasy for a different reason. Veridia''s curt nod confirmed Kai''s suspicions. His explanation, while shaky, had been enough for now. A smile, devoid of warmth, spread across her face. "Excellent," she said, her voice laced with something that he couldn''t decipher. "Compensation for your troubles will be arranged. However, there is the matter of procedure as a newly awakened Mage." Kai braced himself for whatever was to come. From Klan and Jacks, he knew the procedure and if she asked him to study in the tower, he was going to reject it, citing his noble duties. Veridia seemed to anticipate his resistance. "As a newly awakened Mage," she continued, her voice smooth as silk. "The Ascension exam is a mandatory formality. It wouldn''t take long, and upon successful completion, you''d be a registered Mage of the tower." Kai nodded, not liking where it was going. "I appreciate the offer," he countered, his voice firm. "But I have a city to run. Time is a precious commodity for me." "As a noble," she countered. "Your presence wouldn''t be required full-time. You''d manage your territory, contribute to the tower in times of crisis, and perhaps attend classes and get a master of your own free will if you like. Self-taught Mages rarely do great and even if you have done well till now, your progress will become slower and harder with time." I don''t think I would like to select a master. An inheritance, no matter how potent, can''t replace proper training. You''d be wise to consider it." I will think of it. He didn''t try to drag the conversation, but Veridia still mentioned about the responsibilities that would come with being a tower Mage alongside the benefits to his reputation. Kai didn''t care much about the benefits, but he did wince at the fact that he would have to go to war if it ever came up. Though, he would have to go either way since he was a noble. Escaping a war was probably the best way to lose favour with the crown and the people. I would give the exam, he said after she finished her explanation. He doubted he had a way here since it was mandatory for every Mage within the kingdom to register, but at least he would be able to leverage his worth as a noble to ignore most of the things going on in the tower. I do have one request. Could you give me access to the library? I would like to study before the exam. Veridia chuckled. "Of course. A temporary pass, for now, a permanent one after your registration." With a curt nod, he turned to leave. Just as he reached the door, Veridia''s voice stopped him cold. "Your mother," she said, her tone laced with a strange mixture of curiosity and something akin to pity, "would be proud that you were able to access her inheritance. The tower only had a handful of magus and she was a special one even among those." Kai froze upon hearing that. - Follow me for more updates! If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. PS: Sorry for the delay. Had been going through a personal loss. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 81. Secrets of Inheritance Veridia''s words were like a bolt straight out of the sky and it took more than a second for him to register them. A lot of thoughts turned in his mind as he felt like the hidden piece of a puzzle he was looking for was finally revealed to him. But it also brought out a lot of confusion with it. Therefore he turned around, masking his confusion and vulnerability with a polite smile. Archon moved forward and extended his hand there was a thin strip of yellow parchment, designed with green embroidery in the corners. This is the temporary pass for the library, he said with a gruff voice. Kai gave a curt nod and noticed that the man''s aura was stranger than before and his eyes seemed to bore into him. Even Jasper showed similar annoyance, but he hid it way better. He couldn''t blame them since he doubted the tower had many instances of losing out like this. Not only they could do nothing to him on Actra''s death, they even have to compensate him. He gave them one last look and turned around to leave. As he exited the room, he felt Veridias gaze burning into his back, a heated intensity that sent shivers down his spine. The glare that bore behind his back made him wonder if she was going to go back on her words and simply attack him, but he maintained his composed stride, disappearing down the hallway. Once safely out of sight, Kai allowed himself to breathe. Thankfully, no one stopped him for anything more and it allowed him to recap the entire interrogation. It had been a high-stakes dance for sure, and while he''d managed to stay one step ahead, the revelation about his mother made him rethink everything hed known about Arzan so far. He replayed Veridia''s words in his mind: "Your mother would be proud that you were able to access her inheritance. The tower only had a handful of magus and she was a special one even among those." Arzans mother, a magus of Archine Tower? It wasn''t hard for him to believe that a lot of people in his family were Mages. After all, his initial potential had been pretty good, but he hadn''t entertained the possibility of his own mother being a powerful magus and one that probably had a history with Veridia. His thoughts went back to anything and everything he could think of her. The diaries, the only link he had to his past, had offered no mention of her. He''d simply assumed she was from a noble house, someone who''d passed away early, leaving Arzan with no memories of her. Now, it seemed the truth was far more complex. The inheritance, then, wasn''t from the Duchy, but from his mother herself. An inheritance that others assumed to be powerful enough to unclog his mana veins and awaken his magical abilities. Had Actra killed him for the inheritance if it was so powerful? He doubted it since it was usual for only the successor to be able to access it until a Mage had decided to make it a competition. A thousand questions swirled in his mind. Everyone around him was probably going to assume he had gotten the inheritance. But only he knew the truth. The question of what type of inheritance it was, who actually was his mother and where was this inheritance located bugged him. As he walked, he pushed these questions down, deciding to use the tower''s library to see if they had any records on his mother. Knowing how they publically boasted of their former powerful Mages, they would have a lot of information for the novices and apprentices to read through. Suddenly, he thought back to the awakening of his ice element and the voice he had heard. Was that some sort of a soul imprint left by his mother? It could definitely be that, but he couldn''t come to a conclusion before getting more information about her. If he was lucky, he would even be able to find more information on his whole family in the library. It wouldn''t be a bad choice to look into this inheritance since it was bound to contain some sort of artifacts, spells or powers that Arzan''s mother would have left for him. It was sad that he would never be able to get his hand on his rightful inheritance, but he was here in his place. Even if it wasn''t the most moral thing, he didn''t care since strength was very important to him. After all, the investigation was not a hurdle cleared, but a fragile truce at best. He knew the tower''s interest in him would only grow. They needed him to be quiet and if they were actually serious about the investigation, then he could see several ways how he might be impacted. If there was actually a secret cabal of demonic Mages within the tower itself, it might lead to an internal war and if the whole tower was on it, then he might very well expect more than a few assassins after him. Though, he had a feeling he was going to be chased by assassins either way. It still left the question of who wanted to kill him out in the open and as that person hadn''t made any moves since Actra, he was waiting for something to come up. Kai sighed as he pushed past a small crowd to get to the lift. The conversation had mostly exhausted him due to how careful hed wanted to be. On the other hand, he still had his audience with the King, then hed return to check out the library and take the exam to officialize his Mage position tomorrow. His time in the capital was going to be filled with one thing after another. *** Sarch* The Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai stood before the imposing doors of the Kings audience chamber. This was one of the official duties he had as a noble. Everyone of them visiting the capital needed to show their faces of to the King as a sign of respect and since he was also going to be talking about the beast wave, it was one of the most important things in his check list in the capital. As he looked over his clothes for one last time, Killian who was standing beside him spoke. "Are you certain about this, Lord Arzan? Keeping the details of Actra''s treachery under wraps? Seems risky." Kai looked at Killian; the knights neutral face bored him for answers. "The information is vital, Killian. But for now, the tower''s investigation is our best play. Let them squirm, reveal their secrets and see what comes out of this investigation. There''s something bigger at play here, and I want to see what worms they unearth." His eyes flickered towards the massive doors. "Besides, I have a more pressing matter to address with the King. Let''s hope he takes it seriously and agrees to our demands." Before Killian could respond, a male voice echoed through the chamber. Baron Arzan Kellius, son of the former Duke Kellius, your audience is granted." The heavy doors swung open with a groan, revealing a scene of what exactly he had in mind. Nobles, dressed in finery, milled about in the big chamber, their voices a low murmur that filled the air. Numerous eyes glanced at him as he entered. He didn''t give them more than a glance as he walked, his focus solely on the man at the far end of the room. On a raised dais sat King Sullivan Lancephil, a man with a long, thick white beard that went down his chest. His eyes, a faded blue, held a weariness that spoke of years spent burdened by the weight of the crown. A young servant, looking to be in his early twenties, knelt beside him, offering a plate of glistening grapes. The King accepted one with a sigh, his gaze flicking towards Kai with disinterest. Kai straightened his back, walking with confident strides that he seemed to be getting good at. He strode purposefully across the polished floor, the hushed whispers of the nobles following in his wake. This was his first step onto the political stage, but as he looked at Sullivan, the man looked way more interested in the grapes than him. You are Duke Kellius'' third son? Well, the former Duke now." King Sullivan questioned, his voice surprisingly warm for a man of such stature. Kai nodded, hoping the topic won''t stray too long on his family. "Indeed, Your Majesty. I am Baron Arzan Kellius." His gaze softened, a sentiment of recognition passing through his eyes. "Ah, Duke Kellius. A stalwart man, a credit to the realm. Your father''s achievements in the Battle of Saint Wells are well documented. But why have you come here? Any specific reason?" A wave of relief washed over Kai as the King moved over to the topic he was waiting for. He straightened slightly, emboldened. "Your Majesty, I come seeking your assistance." Assistance for what? My territory had gotten signs of a beast wave. I had already confirmed it and it''s approaching fast. I''m here to seek assistance from the kingdom since if the beast wave isn''t stopped, a lot of lives would be at stake. A murmur rippled through the court at his words. He felt more eyes on him. Kai ignored it, focusing on Sullivan''s increasingly serious expression. "A beast wave, you say? How many beasts are you talking about? Around a thousand, your highness, he said, exaggerating the numbers, causing another ripple through the nobles. Thats no trifling matter. Isn''t your territory around the Vasper Forest? Kai nodded, a bit surprised Sullivan remembered it. He saw something flickering through his eyes and the disinterest in them slowly faded and for a few seconds, he saw pity. I understand. This is no trifling matter, young Arzan. The kingdom will lend its aid." He clapped his hands and gestured to one of his servants who promptly moved. After a few minutes in which he answered a few more questions on the beast wave, a door at the back of the room hissed open, and a figure emerged. Kai''s breath hitched seeing the person. His eyes settled on him as he recalled a painting he had seen while entering the castle. He had white hair, the colour of freshly fallen snow which was a sharp contrast to his dark eyes. Other than that, his face was a bit plain and if we removed his hair, he would look like any other commoner, but he noticed that the man walked with a stride that seemed to suggest that he trained everyday. He was the first prince Eldric Sullivan Lancephil. He hadn''t planned to meet him on his journey to the capital, but as Eldric stood before the King, he knew his plans were hardly going to matter here. King Sullivan gestured to the prince. Eldric, I''m glad you have come here at such a short notice. I was in the castle, your majesty, he said, bowing in greeting. Dark clouds have moved themselves towards our kingdom again, Eldric and with them, they have brought upon a beast wave on Baron Arzan''s territory. Ensure he gets all the help we can offer. Kai felt Eldric''s gaze on him as he bowed in gratitude. He didn''t particularly like it, never taken well to any nobles he had crossed paths with, but this was a part of his life now, so he could simply get it over with. The voices from the sides died down as soon as Sullivan ordered the prince to take over the matter. Though, he did saw a lot of people whispering. Things moved rather fast after that as Sullivan dismissed him, saying that he had heard enough for today and wanted to move back to his chambers. The audience ended abruptly, Kai ushered out by a flustered chamberlain who led him to one of the rooms in the back which seemed to be a plush waiting room. After giving him a steaming cup of tea, he left, leaving him alone. Kai didn''t particularly care about how he was treated, but whatever he observed in the court confirmed most things Malden had told him. Sullivan was really not interested in handling the kingdom''s affairs anymore. As he took his first sip out of the tea, the door creaked open. Prince Eldric stepped into the room, followed by a few guards who stood by the door and a man who seemed to be some sort of an advisor who followed him to the table. Kai rose to his feet, looking over at him and hoping that his first meeting with the future mad king would be smooth. "Baron Arzan," Eldric said in a far more cheerful voice than he had expected. I''ve been meaning to talk to you for a while now." - a/n; follow me for more updates. Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 82. Sardonic laugh Hearing his words, Kai had no option but to smile as he wondered why Eldric wanted to talk to him. The latter was nonchalant about Kais smile as he continued to say, The Heat Stones. I must admit, I was quite surprised by their efficiency. Personally, I liked how lasting it was. They far exceeded my expectations. It wasn''t a surprise that the prince had gotten his hands on it. It had already spread to a lot of nobles and it wasn''t out of his expectations that a few of those would have given some to the royal family as a gift. Im glad they were of use, Your Highness. Eldric slightly leaned forward, his arms clutching the edges of the armrest. More than you know, Baron Arzan The prince paused as his dark eyes penetrated him. Theyre not the only thing that impressed me. A few of my retainers told me about how you have been dealing with the bandits in your territory. The man brought his arm to rest on his chin. And then, there was the necromancer incident. It was a hot topic in the court when the news broke out. Eldric knowingly looked at Kai. Quite the feat for a young Mage like yourself. Its very promising. It seems like getting a territory has really made you shine. The last few words made him internally wince. The way Eldric had pointed out his feats, it was clear what he was trying to prove. Even if he couldn''t see any fakeness in his expression or words, it was simply a way for him to tell him that Kai had caught his eye and he had been watching him. It was a thinly concealed power play and Eldric was probably trying to snatch him for his side in the throne competition. It wasn''t like Kai couldn''t see why. A young baron who was also a Mage and one who belonged to the bloodline of a duke and a Magus In all honesty, if word about him started to spread, he was sure that the other two princes would try the same. However, this wasn''t the place for this and Kai wasn''t here to play these games. He forced a chuckle, which came out hollow in the spacious room. Just doing my part as the baron. Eldrics lips in return curved into a ghost of a smile. Indeed. Now, about this beast wave. You mentioned a brood mother and other beast led by it? A formidable foe. I understand you require assistance. Kai gave a small nod as relief washed over him, temporary though it may be. They were finally on topic. Yes, Your Highness. The situation is quite dire, and we lack the manpower to fight against these beasts. Around five thousand soldiers would be ideal, to combine forces with my own men. He pressed on, giving a number that would just be enough. Weapons and other supplies would also be invaluable. Kai carefully watched Eldrics face as he spoke. The lit-up face from before when they discussed the Heat Stone was no longer there. Something akin to disappointment replaced it. Eldric shook his head with his lips tight in a thin line. Five thousand men, you say? Thats a tall order at the moment, Baron Arzan. If Im being honest, itd be hard at the moment. The prince steepled his fingers. It wasnt disappointment that etched across his features, it was regret genuine or not. Kai couldnt say it for sure. What he had seen till now was very different from the tales he had heard of him. Weve been facing increased aggression from our western neighbour, Vanderfall. Skirmishes along the border are becoming commonplace. Additionally, the orcish hordes in the south continue to be a thorn in our side, a very annoying one at that. So, with all these Prince Eldric sighed. We need a good portion of our military presence. Its quite impractical to pull off the soldiers when the kingdom is facing so many threats. It would also take significant travel time. Kais heart sank hearing that, but he didnt want to show it just yet. What about Mages? I can put in a request with the Archine Tower, and Im sure Your Highness can appoint them. A savant and a few adepts would be a huge help. The princes expression remained unreadable. Savants are rarely swayed by whims, Arzan. Theyre mostly engrossed in research, or the middle of vital matters of the kingdoms well-being. Pulling them away like this isn''t an easy matter. As for adepts, many are currently in temporary service of various nobles. For those who are unaffiliated, I could certainly request their assistance. But understand, theres a high chance that theyd reject my request. The kingdom lets the Mages decide whether they want to be a part of an expedition or not until it''s a very urgent matter. I wouldnt want them to be disturbed with their research and meditation as theyre crucial. I think you understand what I meant. He finished with a sigh of helplessness and Kai barely managed to control his mana from flaring up. He felt a growing dread in his gut. The prince was acting as if Mages held so much power that they wouldn''t listen to the decree of the crown, especially adepts. Eldric was simply taking him for a greenhorn who had no idea of how things worked and the worst part was that he couldn''t find anything he could leverage against him for now. Of all the things hed heard about the prince, there was nothing that would work in the moment. Most of the records he knew of him were way after he became king and even then, hed had a ruthless climb that left no room for dissent. Hence, no records of his younger days that he knew. That''s why, he simply grew quiet, letting an uncomfortable silence stem around them. After a while, the advisor standing next to Eldric gestured something. It happened in a blink, but Kai caught it. Eldric smiled, speaking again. "While persuading the Mages won''t be a simple feat, Arzan," he said, his voice smooth as honey. "Perhaps I can be persuasive. A good word from me can go a long way." Id be thankful for that "Of course," Eldric continued after cutting him off. "Persuasion flows both ways, wouldn''t you agree?" Kai understood the unspoken bargain. Eldric''s aid wouldn''t come without a price. The prince wanted him to pursue him so that he could go and put in a word with the Mages. Kai took a slow sip of his tea, refusing to give anything away. He couldnt help but think how it was probably a miracle that the Lancephil Kingdom hadn''t simply broken up in parts in the future and become a giant empire that had left its mark on the world. If the princes were really trying to gain profit and favour in times of crisis, it was a situation beyond saving. The advisor shifted uncomfortably as time passed and Kai kept silent, clearly sensing the growing tension. Eldric''s smile faltered slightly, a hint of annoyance flickering in his dark eyes. Unable to keep the silence growing, he spoke again. "Perhaps," he drawled, "we could discuss the matter of the Heat stones further. What of it? Their distribution, for instance. I have a network of merchants, the finest in the kingdom. You might know of one of them. Henrich Bartens, the owner of Bartens merchant company. I could ensure they reached every corner of the kingdom, even exploring trade routes with neighbouring kingdoms. I know you have a merchant for distribution, but maybe with someone like Henrich, the Heat Stones would reach far more people. Winter is going to come again and we don''t think it would be easier this time." The offer was tempting. Increased distribution of the Heat Stones meant more coins in his pockets, resources he could desperately use. Yet, Kai couldn''t shake the feeling he was being played. "That is certainly interesting," he replied cautiously. "However, a decision of such magnitude requires careful consideration." Eldric''s smile returned, but his words played a part in what Kai felt about him now. "Of course. There will be a ball being held at the end of the week. Perhaps you could be present there, and share your decision." With that, the prince rose. Along with him, the advisor shifted, ready to follow him. Very well then. Eldric gave a curt nod. Thank you for your time, Kai said, rising and bowing as tradition. The prince exited the room without another glance or a word. Kai stared after him for a few more seconds his offer finally settling along with the many other burdens that had already made home in his mind. He felt like this whole conversation had been a waste of his time in so many ways. *** A sardonic laugh escaped Kai''s lips. The famous ''Mad Prince was still young, fighting for things to consolidate his position. He was someone who could be considered the polar opposite of his expectations. He was slightly disappointed if anything. If he had a little bit more insight, he would have helped Kai, playing the longer game and instead of the distribution, he would have wanted the formula for Heat Stones, cutting him off directly. Or simply, he would have befriended him, hoping to come across any more inventions that he might benefit from. The former might have been too authoritative, but the latter was certainly something he could have done. But he had simply tried an approach that had left a bitter taste in Kai''s mouth. Now, he was back in his assigned quarters. Sitting in his room, Kai scribbled furiously on a piece of parchment. Across the room, Killian sat on a plush sofa, huffing as he processed everything that Kai told him. "The nerve!" he sputtered. "Even if he''s a prince, doesn''t the man understand the gravity of a beast wave? Profiteering during a crisis! Disgusting!" Kai grunted in agreement, not looking up from his writing. "He''s never seen true war, Killian. All he knows are courtly intrigues and whispers. And the King" he trailed off, a bitter taste lingering in his mouth. "He cares little for the outlying territories. As long as the crown remains secure, another baron falling wouldn''t be a tragedy. He obviously knows that a Ducal household resides in the lands and they would defend against the beast wave. Eldric simply wants to be looked up as a saviour while securing a profit on the Heat Stones." Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "So, what now, Lord Arzan? We can''t rely on the crown. What''s our plan?" Nothing. There''s no way I''m giving Eldric control over the Heat Stones." Is it because of Malden?" Kai looked back at Killian who had raised an eyebrow in question. Kai hesitated. "Malden''s useful, sure," he admitted. "But mostly, it''s because Eldric''s offer is a gamble and a risky one at that." "He wouldn''t guarantee our safety, even with the stones?" Killian scoffed. Kai shook his head. "Worse, accepting his offer paints a target on my back. It announces my support for him in the throne competition. And he wont genuinely help me anyway." Killian''s brow furrowed. "What makes you say that?" "Lucian. Hes already helping the first prince and would never let the prince genuinely help. Even if I accept his offer, I would probably get a few hundred soldiers and one or two adepts that might not even know how to launch a spell on a charging monster." "But Duke Lucian hasn''t officially declared his support for anyone." Killians frown deepened. "True. But the merchant that the prince was talking about Bartens. He had been found spending a lot of time in Lucians territory and they have a lot of deals together. Malden talked about this with me when I inquired after my meeting. Its easy to make sense if you put the two together." Killian raised his eyebrows at this. Apparently, Malden had little to do with Bartens, but he had a good idea of their distribution network and Kai was sure that it was half a secret that Lucian was supporting the first prince in the court. What are we going to do now? Will you be blackmailing the Archine Tower to get Mages? It''s certainly an option. Thats a good idea Kai nodded. But Ill only be using a bit of my leverage against them. Before Killian could ask why, he continued, Ive no idea how the tower will react to my blackmail. They might send problematic Mages; ones whod create more nuisance than help. If I want to win, I cant afford such a scenario. I need everyone to follow my orders without a question. No doubts or second glances. They probably would also be spying on me from now on and I don''t wish for them to know everything that I would be doing in the territory. I plan to win this battle without help. Id still get Mages from the tower, but lower-ranked ones that I can control. I would also be doing a thorough check on them and making them follow my commands without a word. He paused, thinking about it. At first, hearing about the beast wave was a big shock, it felt as if my limbs were tied together and I had no option but to try and settle for failure. You are doing your best, Lord Arzan. You are Kai waved his hands, cutting Killian off. I am and I''m pretty sure I can defend against the beast wave and win now. I simply needed time to consolidate my plans. How? Killians question made Kai look at what he was writing. With this. He stood up and walked towards Killian, who was immediately on his feet. He handed the paper over to him as the knight looked up in confusion. Tomorrow, you head down to the blacksmiths'' and alchemists'' quarters. We need skilled people, but also those who are adaptable." Killian raised an eyebrow, a knowing glint in his eye. "Easy to relocate, you mean?" Kai nodded. "Exactly." He tapped the paper again, "and show the blacksmith this paper, gauge their reaction. If their eyes light up, then we''ve found our man or woman. Any good blacksmith would know what it means. Also, find those who have worked with enchanters." "And the alchemist?" "Similar criteria," Kai instructed. Theyd surely be interested in relocating after they read this. Killian nodded at that. "And one more thing. While you''re there, keep an ear out for anyone who''s worked with golems before." - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 83. Legacy of the past The next day, Kai woke up early and got ready. He smoothed his robe and straightened up his posture. It was his second morning in the capital, and he had already completed a few of the tasks he had come here for. He walked out of his room with the temporary library pass in his robe pocket and a thrilled mind. He looked at the richly rune-carved, tall walls soaking in the sun that shone through the glass cubicles of windows. Guards lined up in every corner, bowing to him as he went. Despite being the guest quarters area, it was well maintained and designed and he took in the sight as he went. Nevertheless, Kai couldn''t explore for longer. He had things to do today and the first thing was to visit the tower. He walked out of the castle and headed straight there. A carriage was already ready for him. He wasn''t taking any guards with him. Killian had a discussion about that with him but he had relented, knowing that he could stave off any troubles. After reaching the tower, he again saw the area bustling with carriages. He gave his carriage driver some coins to enjoy the capital till the afternoon and headed inside. The air was thick with bustling activity and he saw more people than yesterday. Mages of all ages milled about, colourful crimson cloaks swirling and chatters erupting in nervousness and excitement these were the participants of the ascension exam that was about to be held today. At one glance, he could say most of them were prepared unlike him. But before taking the exam, he had some questions that needed answers. He needed to read up more on his new ice affinity and see if he could find any spell structures around for it. There was also the matter of finding information in the diary of the legendary beast tamer Hendricks Klandel. The latter case had his priority as he had already tried to find information in the library back at Veralt, but was unsuccessful. No matter how much he searched, there were no books on the beast tamer and he wasnt able to find his name on any of the parchments he read. If he was lucky enough, hed be able to find at least a few books in the library alas, for that, he needed to find his way to the library. He made his way towards the magical elevator with that thought in his mind, hoping to ask one of the Mages strolling in the hallways. But as he reached the elevator, he saw Klan. The Mage who wore neatly polished robes fidgeted beside the elevator. He mustve felt Kais gaze on him because he looked up in his direction almost immediately and ran towards him with quick steps. Klan, what are you doing here? Kai questioned. Lord Arzan, I was merely waiting for you, the young man inhaled deeply and sighed. I was, uh, instructed to show you around and make sure you know where the exam halls are. Magus Veridia wanted to make sure you''re familiar with the structure of the ascension exam. It seemed like he had gotten a harsh reprimand for his behaviour and was being overly polite in his speech. Things are always busy around the tower with the pre-exam jitters. I wouldn''t want you to get lost in the tower. On my first day, I nearly died when I accidentally entered the alchemy lab in between an experiment of summoning a fire spirit. Kai almost chuckled at that, but he was glad he didnt. Dont worry, I wouldnt have gotten lost either way. I want to find my way to the library first. He saw the expression on Klan''s face shifting as his lips pursed. Isnt it better to take the exam first? There''s still time to it, but you can familiarise yourself with the structure of it. I can show you the library right after. Kai shook his head at that. Its alright. Just show me the library. Klan nodded, hearing the urgency in his voice. The lift he mumbled to himself and started to walk towards the lift. Kai simply followed him. *** Here. They stepped out of the lift that stopped at the third floor and Klan gestured at the grand, arched doorway. Both of them walked inside and the first time Kai noticed was that it was bigger than he had expected, having stairs from reaching different floors. The library, Klan announced, his voice coming out in a hushed tone. "If you wouldn''t mind, Lord Arzan," he said, "I''ll be here, catching up on some studies. When you''re finished, I can show you the exam halls." Kai nodded in understanding. "Go ahead, Klan. I should be able to find my way around." As Klan scurried off in search of a quiet corner and his study materials, Kai took a deep breath and ventured deeper into the library. The rhythmic tone of people turning up pages echoed faintly, the only sound disturbing the continued silence. He scanned the seemingly endless rows of books, a thrill of anticipation coursing through him. This library was much bigger than the one at Veralt and it made him remember the library that was at the Sorcerers Tower. That one was way bigger, but the ambience was similar. His gaze fell upon an elderly figure perched on a tall ladder, meticulously replacing a dusty tome on a high shelf. The man''s wiry white hair flowed freely around his shoulders, and his face was wrinkled and proof of how many years hed spent here. He was looking at the books in front of him and caressing his long, white goatee beard, in deep thought. With a polite cough, Kai cleared his throat. The librarian, startled, turned his head with a slight frown. Surprise crossed his face when he saw Kai. Hello there, I was wondering if you could help me find some books, Kais request came out in a genuine, pleading tone. Ah, sure thing. Let me get down there first, the old man slowly climbed down the ladder. He was shorter than Kai and looked up at him. He leaned forward, his eyes examining him. What type of books are you searching for?" his raucous voice came low. He tipped his chin down and looked up from the small, round glasses that were on the tip of his nose and scanned Kais robe, showing surprise at how his robe wasnt following the colour code of the tower. Do you need books before the exam? No Maybe youre interested in reviewing some research, young man, he continued without letting Kai speak. Savant Jaspers research on the flat land theory that was written a while back is grabbing more than a handful of attention. It''s about him giving his reasons for the world being in a square shape. Kai''s frown deepened and he almost laughed out loud. Flat world theory was one of the most controversial researches with countless Mages trying to prove how the shape of the world. But most sane ones already knew that it was a sphere based on the patterns of the stars and how the moons behaved. Despite that, a lot of Mages have held onto the motion of it being flat. He hadn''t expected Jasper to be one of them. No, I''m not here for that. He shook his head. Then, tell me. What are you searching for? the librarian asked, tilting his head. Kai cleared his throat, gathering his thoughts once and for all. Well, I''m looking for some specific materials. If possible, I''d like to find books related to the legendary beast tamer Hendricks Klandel, if you have anything on him. Additionally, Id also need some books related to basic first to second circle ice spells." Kai paused and took a second to think about what else he needed to ask. Also, I would like books related to Magi that belonged to the Archine Tower? A biography or just their research. The librarian''s brow furrowed further. He scrutinised Kai for a moment, his gaze sharp despite his age. He scratched his goatee beard. "Hendricks Klandel, you say?" Yes, we have a lot of stuff on him. Pretty interesting research. However, your other requests" he trailed off, his eyes lingering on the titles Kai had mentioned. "Basic ice spells and information on Mages of the Archine Tower? These seem like an unusual combination." Kai met his gaze without flinching. I simply am trying to study their journey to see if I could emulate them. I''m new in the tower. The librarian studied him for a long moment, his weathered face unreadable. Then, a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Very well, let me see what I can find for you. The information on the Magi can be found in a lot of journals written by them. But perhaps I can point you in the right direction if you tell me which one you are looking for?" Sar?h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai paused. He didn''t really know his mother''s name since there was no mention of it in Arzan''s diary. The problem was that he couldn''t even ask Killian or any guards since it would easily give away his identity. Which ones do you have a journal of? We have a rich history of Mages, but if you are only talking about those who reached the magus rank, then he paused. Theres Merlin Mydran first tower master, Magus Veridia, Alatar Winterbloom, Valkyrie Kellius That one. Valkyrie Kellius? Yes, I need information on her journals. Ah, is it the frost queen youre searching for? Frost queen? Kai asked, his mind focused on the title given to her. Yes, Magus Valkyrie was known as the frost queen. I don''t remember when exactly the title was given to her, but everyone who knows her calls her that see, even me. It was because she had a mastery over ice and I haven''t seen anyone close to her in casting efficiency, he said, moving over to one of the rows in the back. Kai followed after him. I believe there was a book around here on her. The librarian looked through a few books, putting them back once he realised that it wasn''t the one. As he worked to find the books Kai was looking for, he kept talking. You wanted books on ice spells too, right? I assume that''s the reason you are looking for things on the frost queen? Kai was about to reply, but then he shook his head. "Partly," he admitted, his voice barely above a hoarse whisper. "But mostly, I''m interested because she''s my mother." The librarian''s face froze in shock and the book he was holding in his hand dropped. His eyes widened as he looked over at Kai once again, surprise battling with a dawning realisation. What? *** Kai flipped through the pages, his eyes scanning the faded ink. It was one of the journals that was written by Hendricks Klandel, titled simply Taming the Wild. He had been going through it for the last half an hour and he had to say that he was impressed. Detailed illustrations of fantastical creatures gryphons with razor-sharp talons, lumbering ogres with skin like granite, and serpentine snakes with eyes burning like embers C filled the margins. Each entry moved into the specific care and behaviour of different beasts. Hendricks had carefully documented their dietary needs, breeding habits, and even their unique magical signatures. It seemed like Hendricks was particularly interested in how certain beasts could manipulate the environment around them with their raw, instinctive mana. He also went on to write about how the spells of the first Mages of humanity, particularly those focused on elemental control, originated from observing these creatures and how they channelled their mana. It was more vivid than he had hoped for and even if it was less personal than the journal he had read, it still had written information that he knew was true even centuries later. If he could, he wanted to read through more of his works, but the problem was just that there were just too many. Kai glanced around his table, his gaze sweeping across the seemingly endless rows of books. The librarian had gotten him all the research related to Hendricks which amounted to over fifty volumes. Kai had been in doubt over his title of the legendary beast tamer since he had no idea if it was just self boast, but it seemed to hold some truth to it now. He seemed to be a fourth circle Mage who had travelled all around the world, taming and researching beasts. Though, he hadn''t been able to find anything related to the prophecy in the books he had read till now. All of them were about a beast and didn''t even hint at some sort of a prophecy. It made him wonder if he should go through all the volumes or simply start to search for books related to prophecies all around the world. With a sigh, Kai turned his attention to the next stack of books the ones detailing his mother''s life and picked one up. He had already gone through a few of them and knew the basics about her life now. The Frost Queen. The strongest mage the kingdom had ever seen. The youngest magus the tower had ever produced these were terms and titles he read about while looking for information on her. His initial shock at her being a magus had been replaced by a burning curiosity. Unlike Hendricks'' detailed records, his mother''s legacy seemed to be woven through scattered accounts and rumoured tales. There were no personal journals, no research papers, just breathless accounts of her exploits hunting legendary beasts, her searches for legendary artefacts, wielding ice magic with awe-inspiring power, and the different spells she had conjured. She seemed to be an adventurous spirit in her youth, a woman who thrived on exploration and the thrill of discovery. But as she approached the twilight of her life, a different yearning seemed to emerge. He had found the records of her marriage in a parchment he had found her union with his father, Duke Kellius, as his third wife. It was described as a loving affair, a chance for her to find solace and stability after a lifetime of relentless pursuit. Kai pushed aside any moral qualms about the age difference or the number of wives. The writing itself seemed to treat it as normal and he doubted it was anything strange in the noble society of this era. However, he also found records of something that had happened before the marriage, an event that had pushed her to settle with the Duke. Valkyrie had gone on an expedition and had confronted a behemoth, a Grade 8 monster that held equal power to the dragons. It had been a long and arduous battle and even if he didn''t find the records of what exactly had happened in it, he did know the end of it. His mother had won, but victory came at a terrible cost. To defeat the beast, his mother had unleashed a spell of immense power, a seventh-circle spell that fractured her Mana Heart. Weakened and heartbroken, she sought refuge with the Duke, marrying him and settling into her life. Unfortunately, she had passed away just after giving birth to Arzan, her fractured mana organ having weakened her entire body and in the end, she had succumbed to it. But she had left behind an inheritance. There was no mention of Arzan by name, but it was clear this inheritance was a significant one reserved for him and most of the Mages and nobles knew of it. He had probably been given preferential treatment due to it with the kingdom elite probably expecting him to retain her mother''s legacy and rise as a powerful Mage, but with Arzan''s failure to become a mage, the whispers likely faded, the talk about the inheritance being buried. Kai suddenly understood everything, and matching the events with the journals of Arzan helped him. Arzan''s obsession with magic, and the lingering resentment, all made sense now. He had been raised as a Duke''s son, heir to a powerful legacy he could never claim. He was probably cast out once he was found to be mortal. Kai thought as he skimmed past a few notes. Lost in thought, he barely registered the approaching footsteps before they were beside him. He looked up to see Klan standing before him. "Lord Arzan, the exam is about to begin." - If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way, plural of Maguses is magi. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 84. Ascension exam The rhythmic scrape of Klan''s boots echoed through the polished stone halls as he led the way. "So, Lord Arzan," Klan began his voice, a hesitant squeak. "The exam structure Well, it''s fairly straightforward. Mages can test for any level they wish, though most aim to climb one rung on the ladder at a time." He paused, glancing at Kai over his shoulder. "For example, novices take the exam to be apprentices. And apprentices, like myself, take the exam to become adept. The difficulty of the exam depends on what you choose. Failing is a common occurrence, especially at the higher levels. It takes a lot of dedication and talent to climb the ranks quickly. "So, what goes down in an adept exam, then?" Kai asked. Usually, it''s a combination of theoretical and practical assessments. The theory portion is definitely important," he stammered, ticking items off on his fingers. "There''s questions on mana manipulation, that''s a given. Then there''s spellcraft theory, where you need to know the workings of different spells, the mana flow, the potential side effects nasty business if you mess that up." He took another shaky breath. "And might I not forget history and lore, especially about ancient Mages. Then, of course, there''s the practical assessment. The real meat of the exam, some might say. This is where you separate the wheat from the chaff, as they say." "So, what spells do they test you on?" "Ah, spells! Third-circle spells, Lord Arzan. That''s the benchmark for adepts. Though," he added with a sly smile, "casting a third-circle spell doesn''t necessarily mean you''re a third-circle mage. A lot of peak second-circle mages like myself take a shot at it too. You see, the exam doesn''t only test your internal mana pool, but your ability to execute the spell itself." This was different from the type of exam he was accustomed to, where reaching the third circle was important to become adept. The other parts were similar, at least the theoretical parts. He absorbed the information, mulling it over in his mind. "But it''s not just about casting the spell, mind you. They test you under pressure, to see if you can keep your head under fire. Efficiency is key, Lord Arzan. The faster and cleaner you cast, the better your score." I see. Whatever Klan told him sounded easy to him, but he didn''t say it out loud. About the practical examination, Klan. Will there be any duels? Or perhaps monster hunting? he asked, wondering if he should have brought armour. "No duels, Lord Arzan. Those are reserved for Mages who take examinations to become savants. But as it''s a higher-level examination, not a lot of Mages take it. Moreover, it''s a small event in itself. Savants are very rare and I believe the last time someone attempted the test was three years ago and they failed. So, it''s really not easy. This information confirmed his earlier suspicions. The Archine Tower seemed to prioritise theoretical knowledge over practical application. Apprentice mages didn''t receive combat training, and only after one became adept that they get trained for it. No wonder Actra was better than these apprentices. "These exams are brutal, Lord Arzan. Not everyone cuts. Even some talented apprentices like myself Well, we just keep taking the test, hoping to pass or at the very least, catch the eye of a higher-ranking Mage. A savant or even an adept who needs a promising apprentice. I desperately seek a master even if I don''t pass, Klan said in a hopeful voice. While they were discussing amongst themselves, they continued walking towards the exam halls. More and more students lined up the corridor as they reached closer to their destination. Klan shot another question after a brief pause. "So, what level are you aiming for, Lord Arzan?" "The adept exam," he replied. It was a perfect fit for his current situation. Magus Veridia considered him to be at the peak of the second circle, so he would easily qualify for the position of an adept. He had briefly considered settling for just being an apprentice, but after thinking about it, he felt like it was beneath him. Honestly, he was pretty sure that he would even be able to pass the exam to be a savant. But there was no need to gain so much attention. Ah, the adept exam, Klan said aloud. Well, good luck. You will need it. I hope your exam goes well, Lord Arzan. He smiled. "Thanks, Klan. You too." They reached a colossal oak door, elaborately carved with esoteric symbols that pulsed with a faint magical glow. This was it the exam hall for the Adept ascension exam. *** Rows upon rows of aspiring adepts hunched over their desks, brows furrowed in concentration as they battled the magical theory paper before them. An invigilator stood in front of a desk, looking over everyone and Kai realised that the whole room was enchanted. There weren''t any complex enchantments. Probably just there to detect if any students were carrying any artefacts or spells to help them cheat. After giving one last look at the room, he focused on the paper. The first section, titled "Magical Theory Fundamentals," seemed straightforward. There were no multichoice questions, rather they were all questions that needed a proper answer. As he read through the paper first, he realised that they were all basic questions on spell construction, the interaction of mana and the environment. Therefore, he began writing without wasting another second. Explain the fundamental differences between evocation and abjuration spells. How do they manipulate the energies to achieve their desired effects? A faint smile played on Kai''s lips. This was child''s play compared to the materials he had glimpsed in the library, knowledge gleaned from ancient texts that he had studied, practised and used for years. He began answering the questions with extra ease, his mind simply a wellspring of formulas and theoretical constructs. Mages throughout history have documented various ''fizzling'' effects when spells go wrong. What''s your take on the role of magical stability and how do you think it can be improved? He inked all the thoughts that danced in his mind. On a standard healing spell, how does the amount of magical energy poured into it affect the potency of the cure? Is it a linear relationship, or something more complex? As he finished half of the paper, a thought snagged at him. He had information from beyond this era and to answer every question perfectly while adding his thoughts might just cause problems and would arouse suspicion. It might lead to Magus Veridia to try to hold him back in the tower for research or something else. Although he wanted to stand out, he didn''t want to benefit the tower. A new strategy formed in his mind. While his knowledge base was vast, he would temper his responses, anchoring them to his current understanding of the world. He wrote his answers carefully, demonstrating a solid grasp of the fundamentals while leaving room for further exploration; exploration that was bound to be found in the future. He carefully read the next question. Mage Rutherford recently proposed a new equation for spell structure: E = (C x A) / (F x M). Denote what they stand for and simply explain what could be the significance of this equation in crafting spells with improved structure. Kais answer was mostly guessed since he didnt know much about Mage Rutherfords theory apart from the basics, but he hadnt lied in terms of how to enhance a proper spell structure. There were a few of these kinds of questions where he had no idea of the theory or the Mage it had come from, but he used his own understanding to write down an answer. At times, he even left it blank since he wasn''t attempting to get full marks. The final section of the paper intrigued him the most. It asked for diagrams of various spell structures, a visual representation of the flow of mana. Kai paused, his pen hovering over the parchment. With an inward smile, he began to sketch. He didn''t copy the rudimentary diagrams from the textbooks. Instead, he drew upon the advanced structures he had encountered and brought them down to the level of structures that he had seen from Actra and Klan. He checked them once, noting that they would work well and then moved on. He turned the paper over, seeing more questions in black ink. As he read a question, it made him pause. It asked about maximising mana capacity during the awakening process. A sly smile tugged at his lips. He dipped his quill in ink and began to write. He didn''t reveal any advanced method of awakening. He simply wrote down the method of awakening the Mages in the era that he had skimmed through in the library and added things that they had missed like the physical conditioning of the Mage and the difference in Mana hearts. He put his quill down after writing a proper answer for the final question. He turned around the parchments and placed them in order, all the while taking second glances at the answers he gave. Quite good work for the low effort he put in. It had only taken him half an hour and as he looked around, he saw frantic scribbling and continuous furrowed brows of the other examinees. He didn''t know if they were tense because of the pressure of the exam itself or because they thought the paper was hard, but he didn''t care enough. I''m done! He exclaimed. A hush fell over the room as Kai rose. All eyes turned towards him as he strode towards the invigilator. "Done already?" the invigilator questioned with a hint of suspicion. The skinny man frowned at him sternly. "Indeed," he replied calmly. "I believe I have answered all the questions to the best of my ability." "Very well," he gave a second glance at the paper in Kais hand. "Leave your paper on the desk and exit the hall." Kai nodded and turned to leave, the envious and confused stares of his fellow examinees burning into his back. He felt every one of them as he walked out of the oak doors. *** The history and lore exam followed a similar pattern. While Kai''s knowledge of magical lore was vast, the specifics of every Mage who graced the Archine Tower in the past century were beyond him. He answered the questions with a balance of confident assertions about historical trends and educated guesses on specific names. It wasn''t a flawless performance, but he was confident he''d done enough to earn a respectable score and that was all he needed. Once that was done, he arrived at the spellcasting exam. He would be lying if he said he hadnt been looking forward to the practical examination. Magical theories were good and all, but in his opinion, magic was supposed to be practical and one learnt how to cast a spell more efficiently while fighting a beast who wanted to gouge your eyes out instead of the safety of a room. Either way, he found himself facing a stoic invigilator, a woman with sharp eyes and long ears. It wasnt that she was an elf or any other race, but she simply had long ears and big lips. As he had walked in, she explained the test: "Cast three distinct third-circle spells and maintain them for at least a minute each." Kai gave a short nod, taking his place in front of her. He took a deep breath and let his mind calm down. He saw the woman had a haughty expression on her face as she watched Kai. He didn''t know if it was a default expression or if she simply wanted to have a strong image in front of the examinees. Soon after, he raised his hand, a spark of mana igniting in his palm. He said an incarnation for a show as ten fiery arrows erupted from his palm and moved in the air. It happened almost instantly as he drew the spell structure accurately. He didnt simply let them fall to the ground, instead, he darted them around the room. The heat that erupted from the arrows prickled his skin a little, but he kept going. His eyes moved from the arrows to the invigilator. Her eyebrows almost reached her hairline as she looked at the precise spell structure, efficiency and Kais immediate but controlled mana manipulation. To add to the list, Kai added more mana to speed up the movement of the arrows. He saw her haughty expression breaking and noticed the transparent shield that surrounded her, probably there to save her life in case of an accident. Getting an idea, he drew the arrows in a circle around it. She took a step back and he barely held back the chuckle. Diapering the arrows, he summoned his next two spells one after another. [Searing lance!] [Infernal whip!] The invigilator subconsciously tightened her grip on the pen and her lips parted in a gasp making Kai almost grin. He hadn''t seen double casting from any Mage in the tower before and assumed that it was a rare skill. The expression on the invilgilator''s face was enough to confirm it. Deciding to finish it, he focused on the spells. With a flicker of his wrist, he let the spells slam into the invigilators shield a white explosion momentarily blinding the room. The shield, designed for minor accidents, shattered with a reverberating crack, sending the surprised invigilator leaping back with a startled yelp. Silence descended upon the room, thick with tension. The invigilator, her face pale, finally met Kai''s eyes. "Are you trying to attack me, Mage Arzan?" she snapped, her voice laced with a hint of anger. Kai blinked innocently, feigning confusion. "Attack you? No, no," he replied smoothly. "I was merely demonstrating the power of the spells as instructed. Three distinct third-circle spells, each maintained for at least a minute." The invigilator stared at him for a long moment, a battle raging within her eyes between exasperation and grudging admiration. Finally, she sighed, muttering something under her breath. When her legs shook, he knew he had more than just to shock her. He had managed to scare her. She scribbled furiously on a parchment, clearly marking his performance. "Alright, you pass," she announced finally, her voice devoid of emotion. Kai nodded curtly, concealing his victory smile. This exam, designed to test basic spellcasting competency, had proven ridiculously easy. *** A shaft of afternoon sunlight speared through the shutters, illuminating a map sprawled across the mahogany table. Edrian, the middle son of the former Duke Kellius, traced his finger along a winding trade route. His blond hair was pulled back in a simple braid as he touched his head something he often did when he was hyper-focused. A path was marked by him on it and he couldn''t stop himself from smiling as he thought about the future. A low cough broke him from his trance. In the doorway stood Giles, his butler, his white starched collar and impeccable attire were different to Edrian''s more relaxed attire a simple doublet and breeches that spoke of practicality over ostentation. "My Lord, I have an update regarding Arzan, Giles muttered. Edrian''s head snapped up, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features. What is it, Giles?" "His investigation with the Archine Tower has concluded, my lord," Giles reported, his eyes remaining respectfully downcast. "According to our sources, he is currently taking the ascension exam." Edrian traced the faint scar that ran along his jawline. He rose from his chair abruptly. The map slid off the table, scattering pins and parchment to the floor. He strode towards the window, his gaze falling to the afternoon sun. So, he managed to survive through the investigation? He asked, looking back at the butler. Giles nodded. Yes, my lord. Apparently, the report we got said that the tower is interested in recruiting him and isn''t pressing any charges over him. Sar?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. That''s interesting, he muttered. Seems like my brother had grown over the time we had been apart. Giles stood silent as Edrian talked to himself. Looking over at the map on the floor, he picked it up, giving it one last look before speaking again. I''m quite curious about him now. Since we are both in the capital, it seems like it''s time for a brotherly reunion. Don''t you think so, Giles? Yes, my lord. Should I send out a message? Giles asked in a low voice. Do so. Make sure to include that I will feel bad if he rejects the invitation. Giles nodded and left the room while Edrian went back to the map, his gaze cold. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 85. Power games Having finished the stew, Kai pushed his tray away and basked under the rays of the midday sun filtering through the cafeteria window. It was quite a large room, made to probably house all the Mages of the novice and apprentice ranks. Maybe, even adepts, but he couldn''t be sure since they seem to have more privileges than the rest. All he knew was that they had a separate cafeteria or they might even have their chambers to eat in. He had walked in a while back, craving a peaceful solitude as he filled his belly before moving back to the library. Since the exam was done, he had a few hours to finish the books he had been reading and then, in the evening, he was supposed to meet the blacksmith Killian had found. He savoured the quiet for a moment longer, the clinking of silverware filling the space. With a satisfied sigh, Kai reached for his worn leather satchel. Suddenly, the cafeteria doors swung open, and a wave of chattering Mages flooded in. Kai watched them with detached amusement as the room buzzed with post-exam chatter. Laughter and nervous whispers mingled in the air. He preferred the quiet more than any sort of chatter. Just the expression on their faces was enough for him to know how their exams went. A few people masked their expressions, but their eyes revealed everything. A familiar Mage grabbed his attention Klan, his brow furrowed in a deep concentration despite the jovial greetings he exchanged with his companions. Beside him, Jacks practically bounced with excitement, his face lit with a wide grin. Kai couldn''t help but notice how contradicting they seemed and it couldn''t take a genius to guess how their exams went. Soon, he saw their eyes on him. Lord Arzan! Jacks called out, waving enthusiastically. As they drew closer, he continued, How did your exams go? Ours were pretty tough, but I think I did okay. Klan sighed heavily, rubbing the back of his neck. I messed up the spell-casting exam, he admitted. I only managed to cast two spells. It was a disaster. The invigilator looked at me like I was an idiot. My future is doomed. Kai nodded silently, his mind racing. He knew that any attempt to console Klan might come off as harsh nor did he have any reason to do so. In his opinion, both Klan and Jacks struggled with spell structure and casting. Even if they have sufficient mana and theoretical knowledge, they barely have any practical experience and are as good as mana batteries. Mages who had mana, but haven''t been taught how to use spells sufficiently. If he were to help them, hed have to start from the basics, reinforcing the fundamentals. Im sure youll get it next time, Jacks said, trying to sound optimistic. Its just one exam, right? It''s easy for you to say. Your exam went well. Klan countered, looking as if he had lost out on the opportunity of a lifetime. Kai listened, weighing his words carefully. He briefly wondered if he should tell him that the path of magic wasn''t something that ended with one exam and if he aimed to continue on this path, he would experience much worse in the future. But in the end, he decided it was best to remain silent, offering a supportive presence rather than unsolicited advice. After a few seconds of listening to Jacks words on how he did well in the exams and how Klan would have his chance next year, he was about to excuse himself. A voice called out from behind him. "Arzan!" a voice boomed in a jovial tone. A jolt of annoyance and curiosity shot through Kai as he turned back. A tall, red-haired Mage strutted towards him, his green robes clashing with the general crimson of the apprentices. A group of younger Mages trailed behind him, their uniforms marking them as apprentices and novices, the strongest of them being in the peak of the second circle. The red-haired Mage himself looked to be comfortably in the third circle and he didn''t do anything to hide the fact. Even flaunting his mana as he moved towards him. Thats Reyk Chase, the first son of Count Chase. I wonder what he''s doing here, Klan murmured, his eyes wide with a mix of envy and admiration. Probably here to ask his juniors about their test, Jacks replied, glancing after Kai with a thoughtful expression. Hes one of Savant Jaspers disciples. I have heard rumours that he had spent quite a lot of time battling monsters away from the capital and I have seen one of his duels with another Mage. He''s a genius when it comes to casting and duels. It wasn''t a wrong line of thought since a Duke''s son would know people, but he had no idea if this Reyk was an enemy or not. He certainly wasn''t a friend since Arzan didn''t have any. Was he just one of the nobles he was briefly acquainted with? Or a rival of sorts? As Kai pondered on that, Reyk stopped right before him, a smile forming on his lips. A low whisper rippled through the crowd of Mages as Kai felt eyes gathered on him. Well, well, Reyk drawled, his eyes moving all over him as Kai felt a faint trail of mana trying to oppress him. I never expected you to not only awaken but even reach the second circle. Last time we talked, you still were depressed over the fact that you were a cripple. It seems like miracles do happen after all. So, he was an enemy. If the man''s attempt at oppressing him with his mana wasn''t enough, his words were. His tone was one of sincerity as if he was simply happy to see him, but just the word cripple told his intentions. Despite that, he calmed down any surge of anger he felt, aware of the gawking crowd. Yes, they do, he said, giving a simple nod and turning around. I would love to talk more, but I need to head to the library now. I''m pretty sure you have much better things to do. He tried to move past them, simply leaving since he didn''t want to get pulled into any confrontation. Whatever problem he had with Arzan wasn''t something he cared about, but he felt Reyk''s mana surging around him. The red-haired Mage planted himself firmly in his path. "Hold on there, Arzan," Reyk said. Its not polite to run away since we have met after years. I thought I would never see you again. Don''t you want to catch up a little bit? No, I don''t, Kai said, calmly, but it seemed to simply annoy Reyk as the pressure increased. You have grown impolite since I saw you. Maybe. Kai saw two of his lackeys block his path from the sides if he tried to move. Looking around, Klan and Jacks had already planted themselves in the back, clearly stupefied as to what was going on. Everyone else in the cafeteria simply watched on like it was an interesting event. As Kai wondered that, a silence stretched around them and it seemed to annoy Reyk more and more as for the first time, a frown appeared on his face. It seemed like he decided to give up any small talk and came to the topic. I heard what''s going on in your territory. A beast wave is going to devour it. I wonder what you are doing here at the tower. Perhaps looking for a master to take you in? After all, you would need a place to run to since your family had already abandoned you. Kai''s eyes narrowed. To that, more heads turned, eyes locking onto the brewing confrontation. It was clear the man was attempting to provoke Kai, his voice dripping with derision. Kai remained silent, his expression impassive, but the mans words grew louder, demanding attention. You know I remember, the man began, a sneer curling his lips. At a party we attended a few years back, you had begged a savant who was there to take you as a disciple. I recall it was just after you have been branded cripple. Back then, you went as far as to kneel. A murmur rippled through the crowd, a mixture of disbelief and amusement. Kais silence seemed to embolden the man, who puffed up his chest and continued, relishing the attention. Are you going to do the same here? Reyk asked, turning to his lackeys. They erupted in laughter, the sound echoing off in the cafeteria. Their eyes glittered with malicious glee, feeding off the spectacle. Kais mind raced. Reyk had given up any plans on being subtle and was openly insulting him. In most cases, this was easily going to lead to a duel or much worse, but he thought differently. He knew he could easily silence the man with a well-placed spell or a cutting retort, but he chose restraint. He had nothing to prove to this crowd. Instead, he took a deep breath, centring himself. He didn''t care too much about the authenticity of the story since he wasn''t there. Knowing Arzan it might have been true or Reyk was simply exaggerating it. It didn''t matter. The question was why he was trying to confront him like this. Several possibilities flashed through his mind. It might have been Veridia trying to show him his place by sending him a talented Mage who was closer to him in age. Or maybe it was simply Jasper who had looked offended in the investigation. It could be even Reyk simply enjoying the humiliation of a Duke''s son. Was this a test, a way to gauge Kai''s reaction under pressure? Power games, no matter how childish, were a reality for those who held it. But Kai wouldn''t play their game. Silence, he decided, was his shield. Reyk craved a reaction, a display of weakness, but Kai wouldn''t give him the satisfaction. However, Reyk seemed to mistake Kai''s silence for fear. His cruel grin stretched wider. "What''s the matter, Arzan? Cat got your tongue? How about it? Kneel, beg for my tutelage, and maybe, just maybe, I''ll consider taking you as my student. it won''t be the first time and you''ll have a haven when those beasts overrun your pathetic little territory." The crowd that was initially amused by Reyk''s words fell silent, their curiosity morphing into something akin to anticipation. Kai knew the clock was ticking. Silence could be misinterpreted as weakness, but a wrong response could escalate the situation further. He needed a way to deflect Reyk''s attack, something that wouldn''t give him the satisfaction of a rise out of Kai but wouldn''t brand him as a coward. A weary sigh escaped Kai''s lips. "No," he said simply, turning to leave. His escape route was cut short as Reyk''s hand clamped down on his shoulder, his mana pressing down heavily now. "What do you mean, no? Are you insulting me by rejecting such a generous offer?" Kai''s frown deepened. He knew arguing wouldn''t serve him well, especially with the entire cafeteria watching. Still, a part of him simply wanted to burn everything down and leave, but that would simply mean more people would be after him. No, he needed a way to tell these idiots that he wasn''t someone who they could go against. He had given sufficient proof to the council that controlled the tower, even going as far as to reveal a skill like dual casting. But it wasn''t like everyone in the tower knew of it. Maybe it was time to demonstrate a bit of his strength in front of everyone. He wouldn''t go all out, but showing off just enough would mean no idiot would disturb him again. "I don''t believe you have anything to teach me," he said, his voice flat. "Frankly, I''d rather take my own life than stoop to begging for guidance from someone like you." Reyk''s face contorted with rage. "You have guts, Arzan, I''ll give you that." Kai''s eyes narrowed. "Do you want to see them? Because from where I stand, yours seems remarkably absent." A ripple of suppressed laughter ran through the crowd. Reyk''s face flushed crimson. His mana pushed back, but for the first time, Kai countered with his own, keeping it in its place as surprise flashed by Reyk''s face. "Alright then," he roared, stomping his foot. "If that''s how you want to play it! I challenge you to a duel! You have a week to prepare. By the noble code, you can''t refuse after such a personal insult!" Kai swept his gaze across the expectant faces staring back at him. Another sigh, heavier this time, escaped his lips. It looked like Reyk didn''t want to end it in the cafeteria and instead wanted more of an audience. The man seemed the spitting image of an attention whore. Then again, lots of Mages were. "Fine," he said. "I accept your challenge. I will be in the arena before I leave the capital." With that, he turned and strode out of the cafeteria, leaving behind a stunned silence momentarily shattered by the chatter that erupted in his wake. Kai cursed under his breath and his eyes gleamed. He had no idea if it was a scheme or if Reyk was just being a bully, but he knew that after the duel, Mages would think twice before trying to go against him. *** They were walking down the streets of the art district. Killian was walking beside Kai in the back while in the front, the mercenaries walked with their heads held high. Raven was discussing something with Gorak while Finn and Finnigan were busy with their conversation. Reyk Chase challenged you to a duel? That man was always trying to pick up fights, Killian said, his brow furrowed in annoyance. "You know about him?" Kai asked. He used to attend birthday parties thrown by your father since Count Chase and he had memories from the war, he muttered and looked as if he was thinking back to an event from the past. He used to have a gang of lower nobles with him always and would target servants and even knights, so I have heard enough of him. Was he close to me? It''s been so long I barely remember those parties. Kai asked, hoping to get something out of Killian. Not exactly, but he would be around you and your brothers. I remember you were always gloomy with him around, but then you have been like that always in the past. Kai simply nodded at that. It meant that the possibility of Reyk being a bully to him was there, but he didn''t know if Arzan had kneeled to a savant or not. He deliberated whether to ask about it, but decided against it. I will deal with him in the duel, Kai said and Killian simply nodded. The knight didn''t seem particularly against the duel, already knowing his strength. They passed a few shops that were busy with customers and Kai focused on the sights. These parts of the streets were fairly clean and he saw a lot more people here. There was also a lot of shouting as people called for customers to their shops. A few workers ran around and he felt like the art district was the liveliest one among the four. Soon, they got to their destination and Gorak stopped by the road, pointing to the sign of a shop. It was a quaint storefront adorned with a weathered sign that read "Molten, located at the far end of the street. "This is my friend''s shop," Gorak explained. "He agreed to meet with us." Is there anything I should know? Kai asked, looking over at the sign and then at Gorak. Not really. He''s fairly cool. He also took well to your diagrams and asked questions that I had no answers for. Also, he seemed like he would relocate if he deemed it beneficial to him, Killian added and it was all Kai needed. They pushed open the door and walked inside. A small bell made a noise when they entered. It was a fairly small store, clattered with all kinds of weapons, but as he looked around, he froze. Not because of the weapons, but because of the presence of someone in the store. Standing behind the counter, his massive frame dwarfing the cluttered workspace, was a minotaur. His powerful physique and fierce red eyes instantly brought back unwelcome memories as they settled on him the memories of fighting a similar creature before his regressor. Kai''s breath hitched in his throat. - PLEASE follow me on Scribble Hub! AND If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Sarch* The N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 86. Balen Dead mana was a corrupting force that had ravaged and destroyed the world by the end of his previous life. He remembered how it had spread everywhere while damaging species and their life forces. That insidious corrupting force left behind a trail of extinction in many species including elves, stout dwarven holds, rarer species like naga and even minotaurs. In these species, elves and dwarves left no evidence of existence behind other than possible theories of genocide. However, dead mana hadnt always claimed its victims entirely. Sometimes, it twisted and warped them, birthing nightmarish parodies of their former selves. They were evolved mindless creatures that had lost their reasoning. Kai internally shivered, remembering the chilling hiss of a naga fiend hed faced, the unnatural green glow that surrounded it. And the minotaurs Theyd become formidable foes, their once noble charge had twisted into mindless aggression by the dead mana. Fighting them had been brutal because they knew no fear or pain. Even in his final moments, a minotaur was the one to charge at him. The memory came to life as the red eyes of the minotaur behind the counter locked with his. Kai''s fingers twitched, the familiar mana pathways in his mind stirring as he began to form a spell structure, a reflex due to the countless battles hed faced. But just then, the tension shattered. Far from radiating hostility, the minotaur let out a hearty laugh, the sound echoing through the shop. "Gorak!" the Minotaur greeted, his voice surprisingly deep and friendly. "Is this the man that youre working for?" Kai blinked, the spell structure dissolving in his mind. Them minotaur, massive as he was, seemed more interested in a handshake than a fight. Relief washed over Kai, leaving him feeling a little foolish for his knee-jerk reaction. The minotaur stood tall and muscular, his frame entirely covered with dark fur that rippled with every movement. The creatures head was that of a massive bull, crowned with sharp, curved horns that he imagined could easily gore any adversary. The eyes they were striking vivid red. His breath came heavy, snorting bursts and his nostrils flared with every exhale. "Yeah, that he is. Lord Arzan, hes the Baron of the City of Veralt, I told you. Anyway, are you free? We need to talk." Gorak said and started walking inside the shop. Kai took a look around. The air was thick with the smell of molten metal. The space was dimly lit by the orange glow of the forge. Shelves lined with tools of all shapes and sizes covered the wall, surprisingly, they were all organised and well-used. A massive workbench dominated one side of the room, cluttered with half-finished projects, rolls of leather and various metal components. Buckets of water and oil stand ready for quenching on the side, their surfaces reflecting the dancing flames. Barrels and crates filled with raw materials iron ingots, steel rods, and sheets of metal were stacked neatly along one wall. Despite the rough and rugged nature of the shop, there was a sense of order and precision. Every tool and piece of equipment had its place. Balon laughed again, vibrating and seeming to shake the very floorboards. "Aye, business isn''t exactly booming these days, as you can see." He gestured around the empty shop with a hoof the size of a dinner plate. Maybe those unfinished projects were not for customers, a thought ran in Kais mind. Either way, his focus went back to the minotaur. Balen then straightened, his red eyes meeting Kai''s with an intensity that made his skin crawl. "Fear my manners are running dry, Lord Arzan. I apologise, let me introduce myself to you. He walked to the front from where he was. Im Balen, son of Darguk, brother to Brontes." Meeting the gaze of the massive creature, Kai saw no malice, only a weary curiosity. Shame washed over him. He''d nearly blasted a friendly minotaur with a spell thanks to his past experiences. "Nice to meet you," he offered, extending a hand in greeting. "I heard you have a reputation for some impressive craftsmanship." Balen''s grin could have rivalled a crocodile''s. "More than enough," he said with a nod. "You the one who drew those diagrams Knight Killian here brought by?" "Yes," Kai admitted, "but perhaps we could discuss them somewhere with a bit more privacy?" The minotaur chuckled, the sound surprisingly warm. "Follow me to my workshop." As they headed back into the cluttered workshop, Kai leaned close to Killian, his voice laced with a hint of accusation. "Why didn''t you tell me he was a minotaur?" Killian shrugged, a sheepish grin on his face. "Honestly, I didn''t think it was important." Kai winced internally. Important? Almost getting into a fight with a potential ally because of a bad assumption that was definitely important. He vowed to himself to be more mindful of his preconceived notions from now on. With those thoughts, he walked past a partition that was used to separate the shop and the workshop. The workshop felt like entering a beast''s den cavernous and chaotic. Tools of all shapes and sizes hung haphazardly from the crude wooden beams overhead. This was not what he saw in the front. This was a mess on its own. Boards were all over the place filled with different drawings of weapons and equipment. In the centre stood a massive forge, its blackened maw glowing with an orange heat. A large bellows, connected to the forge, lay in a corner, ready to stoke the fire to the necessary intensity. Kai''s eyes landed on his own diagrams, diligently drawn and spread out on a large wooden board propped against a wall. He could even see notes on other pages stuck on the board. It seemed like the minotaur was trying to study them, but since Kai hadn''t mentioned anything more than basics, he had trouble getting the whole idea around them. It wasn''t entirely safe to just have them around in his shop since the diagrams contained weapons of destruction. But he had already put a spell on them for him to track their location. Using that as a connection, he could even burn the diagrams at command and even if anyone managed to learn the diagrams, they needed Kai''s assistance to work. Balen, towering over Kai, was studying them intently, his brow furrowed in concentration. "So, these ''mana cannons'' of yours," his voice echoed in the cluttered space. "How exactly do they function?" Kai suppressed a smile, looking over the diagrams for the cannons. The concept was actually extremely simple at its core. "They''re essentially focused conduits for condensed mana. Normally, you have a lever to activate it and mana channels made through the construct. Three key components will be needed mostly; the physical materials that formed the cannon, enchantments to channel the mana and specific functions, and aethum crystals to fuel the process. Balen''s massive head tilted, his red eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Even then, condensing mana to such a degree," he muttered, "is a dangerous thing. It could easily overload and well, cause a nasty little explosion. Enough to take everyone in the vicinity with it." Kai shook his head reassuringly."The key is containment. We don''t condense the mana directly within the cannon. Instead, we channel it into a specialised aethum crystal embedded within the construct. This crystal acts as a reservoir, holding the condensed mana safely until it''s released." He traced a line on the diagram, illustrating the flow of energy through channels etched into the cannon''s frame. "These channels guide the mana towards a heavily guarded area the ''heart'' of the cannon where it remains contained until it''s fired." A spark of excitement ignited in Balen''s eyes. "Intriguing theory," he admitted. "But wouldn''t we need a vast number of seals to ensure the mana doesn''t leak or overload the system?" "Precisely," Kai confirmed his thoughts about the enchantments. "And that''s where my expertise comes in. I can inscribe the necessary seals to maintain containment." Alright What about the material, safety mechanism and activation? Questions flew one after another. Balen looked at him as if he was intrigued, curious and eager at the same time. Kai could practically feel his eyes shining as he talked. Well, I was thinking of more mana-infused steel as the material. Its strong and conducts the power well. Id help with that. The enchantments are what prevent any blasts or explosions and act as an activation mechanism. We can create a lever for it. It takes an entire aethum stone for one blast and if you see it, you will know that it''s extremely lethal. Balen nodded at that. We can use aetherium alloy for the internal lining. It insulates and manages the mana flow, preventing leaks and maintaining stability. So everything is connected to the aethum stone and the enchantments. Kai nodded. What if something goes wrong Well, hopefully not. In case of a critical malfunction, we will have to have failsafe runes inscribed along the cannon''s length. They activate to shut down the cannon if needed. There''s also a manual override a mechanical switch that disconnects the mana source immediately. The Aethum will fall out immediately. Kai pointed at the diagram where he had carefully drawn everything, including the mechanical switch to dissipate the mana stone from providing the energy. Simply, once charged, you aim. When ready, you trigger the firing sequence, and the cannon projects the focused mana beam at the target. Balen gave a slow nod at that. A moment of silence took over their conversation as the minotaur visibly got into a deep thinking state, with both his hands on his hips. "But what about the aethum itself?" he asked. "Each blast from this cannon would require a condensed mana crystal, wouldn''t it? We''d need a whole mine to power one of these things for any significant amount of time." Kai''s lips curved into a confident grin. "That''s where things get interesting," he said. "I happen to have access to a rather sizable supply of aethum crystals." Balen widened his eyes. "A sizable supply?" He looked at him, then back at Gorak and Killian. Seeing that his friend was nodding, the surprise on his face turned into shock before he looked at Kai in a different light. With a deep breath, Kai elaborated. "Yes," he confirmed. "Let''s just say I have access to enough aethum to make these mana cannons a viable option." Balen studied the diagrams for a long moment, his brow furrowed in thought. They talked a bit more as the minotaur went on about how they could construct it and kept asking general questions from Kai. He answered everything, keeping them a little vague, knowing that he hadn''t agreed to join him yet. What do you think about the weapon artefact designs? Kai asked, shifting from the topic of the mana cannons to another set of diagrams he had made. Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. They were weapon diagrams and not just any type of weapons, but artefacts. He planned to make them for his guards and even if not everyone gets them, just the enforcers having such a weapon would be a big boost to their defences. Even a simple artefact was worth a lot and although he didn''t know any intricate enchantments, the few he knew would make sure they would be effective against a lot of different types of beasts. Balen contemplated for a minute. "They are really interesting," he finally rumbled. "These weapon designs are certainly unique. You utilise a completely different method for artefact creation than I''ve ever encountered. I encountered something similar when I was working with dwarfs. But these are different developed. Enchanting from within and constructing a mana circuit are extremely fascinating concepts." Soon after, Balen proceeded to break down Kai''s concepts, explaining them in his own words. The more Balen spoke, the more impressed Kai became. It turns out that although Balen doesn''t get requests for artefacts every day since he didn''t have an enchanter around, he had worked and assisted on them in the past. Also, he had been with the dwarves as part of what he called the Adolescent journey which Kai assumed was something of a tradition for minotaurs. Either way, if he had worked with dwarves, he would be good. If his analysis and knowledge weren''t enough, one look at the sword and sabres lying around in his workshop was enough for Kai to know that his craft was high level. It was just what he needed. Mana cannons were a common sight in his era, a marvel of ingenuity. They offered a powerful counter to mana fiend hordes. However, as with all things powerful, there were downsides. The sheer amount of aethum required to sustain them ultimately depleted the world''s resources, forcing them to abandon the technology. The fiends, ever adaptable, found new ways to overwhelm the defences. Although new models and discoveries came to be, fuel was always a big problem. Here, he didn''t have to deal with that since he had a mine of his own and using them in one beast wave wasn''t going to deplete that. Having Balen on his side, with his knowledge and skill, could be a game-changer. Kai cast a glance around the cluttered workshop, his mind already formulating a plan. If the minotaur could build up a few mana cannons and artefacts, then they would have a high chance of defending against the beast wave. "Balen, given your abilities, I was hoping you might consider relocating. I''d like you to work on these mana cannons first and foremost. Of course, your work wouldn''t go unnoticed. The pay would be more than fair, and you''d have a comfortable environment to work in, he said, putting out his most sincere tone. Balen''s red eyes blinked. He let out a low rumble that could have been interpreted as a chuckle. I''m certainly intrigued, but Gorak told me on a beast wave. Yes, there''s one," Kai acknowledged. "But these mana cannons could be the key to holding the beast off. But I need your expertise for that. Are you interested?" Another heavy silence descended upon the workshop. Balen''s massive finger traced the intricate lines of the mana cannon diagram, his brows furrowed in thought. The offer was tempting a secure environment, good pay, and the chance to contribute something truly meaningful. Yet, a shadow of doubt lingered in his eyes. "You sure about that? There''s a reason this shop is in the backstreets, with barely a customer in sight. And I didn''t get this location because of a bad broker. It was the only one offered to me." He knew what Balen was pointing at. Race was certainly a hot topic in the kingdom and even elves had a harder time mingling with the population, the less said about someone like a minotaur the better. But he didn''t care about it. Kai met his gaze head-on. "That doesn''t matter," he said firmly. "You''ll be working under me, creating weapons that could change the tide of this war. Your skills are exactly what I need and I don''t care about anything else. If anyone cares, you report to me and I will deal with them." Balen narrowed. "But I won''t fight. If that beast wave comes for me, I''ll pack my bags and leave. Blacksmithing is my trade, not warfare. I haven''t got the stomach for it despite how I look." "Fair enough," Kai conceded. "And honestly, I doubt the beasts will target you directly. If these cannons and weapons work as well as in theory, they''ll be too busy defending themselves to worry about a lone blacksmith." - follow me on scribble hub :) Thank you so much for reading. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 87. Alchemists Once Balen threw his considerable weight behind their cause, things moved at an unexpectedly swift pace. Unlike Kai''s initial apprehension, Balen seemed downright eager to relocate. Of course, the gruff minotaur needed to shutter his dusty workshop and finish any lingering projects, but that wouldn''t take long. This suited Kai perfectly; a few days in the capital remained before his scheduled duel with Reyk and only after that, he would be able to return. Before they could truly get into crafting the mana cannons, Kai needed to ensure secrecy and he asked the minotaur for an oath. While Balen wasn''t a Mage, most beastfolk held oaths in high regard, valuing their word even above their lives. Balen readily agreed after all, success would mean wielding a weapon powerful enough to attract unwanted attention, even from the kingdom itself and he seemed to understand the value of something like that. A simple oath, then, bound the minotaur to silence regarding the nature of their creations. With the blacksmith secured, Kai turned his attention to their next acquisition securing an alchemist and more manpower. The second was easy enough, but getting an alchemist wasn''t an easy task. Most of them were bound with the tower and were known to work on their own projects or for nobles for a considerable sum. The truly best ones were employed by the kingdom itself. Thankfully, Malden had let Kai on the address of a small alchemy workshop nestled in the lower district. Apparently, it was run by a peculiar crew: a lone second-circle Mage who ran it alongside a handful of first-circle apprentices. S~ea??h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The very notion sent a jolt of intrigue through Kai. A second-circle mage, slumming it in a dingy workshop? That kind of situation screamed backstory. He got a bit of it from Malden and after checking that he was at a decent enough level as an alchemist, he decided to meet him. Determined to get the man on board, Kai made haste to the workshop. His only expectation was a man who was decent enough to get the job done and not plunge a knife into his back. He ignored the acrid scent of burned alchemical mixtures that lingered heavily in the air as he stepped inside with Killian following behind him. The interior resembled a mad Mage''s subterranean laboratory far more than a proper workshop. Glass vials filled with different colours of liquids lined crooked shelves, bubbling cauldrons threatened to erupt at any moment, and dust adorned the grimy, cracked walls. A few apprentices gave him a look and one of them led him to their boss. As he navigated this chaotic building, Kai could see that they weren''t doing well. Finally, he reached the second floor, where a lone figure awaited him in an office. It was a small empty space with a big table in the centre surrounded by chairs and the alchemist sitting in the centre. The man cloaked and sported a weathered leather eye patch over his right eye, the other was blue. He seemed to have been waiting for Kai''s arrival and as soon as he entered, he gave a small bow. "Greetings, Orion, I believe my associate, Malden, may have mentioned my arrival. Im Arzan Kellius." Orion immediately nodded and gave a tight smile. "Malden, bless his nosy soul," the man rasped, his voice gravelly with age. "He tells me you''re looking to recruit my entire workshop for some territorial endeavour?" Kai, keeping his voice even, offered a curt nod. "Indeed. I''ve heard of your capabilities as an alchemist, and with the project I''m undertaking, a skilled alchemist and their apprentices would be invaluable." A sardonic chuckle escaped Orions lips. "Apprentices? These lots are no fledglings." Kai raised an eyebrow. "Looking for a master, then? Because I''m willing to offer instruction in return for your expertise. It won''t be a regular apprenticeship, but you will learn a lot." The man leaned back, confusion etching lines on his weathered face. "Haven''t the faintest clue who you are, Lord Arzan. Because thats all Ive heard about you from Malden. That you are a baron. But waltzing into my place and talking about teaching alchemy" he trailed off, his single eye narrowing. Quick as a thought, Kai conjured a small fireball in his palm, the wavering red orb illuminating the dusty office. The man''s posture stiffened, emotions of recognition replacing his initial surprise. He saw his arm reaching for something under the table. Probably a vial of exploding potion or something similar. Kai shot a warning glance at him, daring him to do anything and Orion was smart enough to let the moment pass. "No need for worry," Kai said, dispelling the fireball with a gesture, but making sure to send a mana signature in the air to let Orion know that he won''t be able to do anything against his power. Now that you know my identity as a Mage, it should be easier. I myself delve into alchemy and let''s just say, I appreciate a good potion when I see one." He reached into his pocket, pulling out two vials filled with shimmering liquids one a murky green, the other a clear blue. The first one was brewed by Orion himself and the second one was by Kai. Orion''s eyes widened and Kai didn''t know if it was because he had revealed his strength or due to the potions. "I saw your work at the market," Kai continued, setting the vials on the table. "These healing potions quite remarkable for someone operating in these less than ideal conditions." Orion''s gaze darted between Kai and the potions. Kai unscrewed the blue vial, swirling the clear liquid within. "You''ve got the basics down, I''ll give you that. But the quality of your ingredients is subpar at best. And your brewing technique" He paused. With a flourish, he took a swig from his own vial a clear substance that shimmered faintly. Killian, who''d been silent until now, obligingly held out a hand, allowing Kai to draw a small cut with a dagger. Blood drew out and fell on the carpet. Kai quickly uncorked his potion and handed it over. Killian without a word drank it. Kai looked at Orion to see how his attention was fully on Killians bruise. Within three seconds, the gash was no more than a faint pink scar. "Shallow cut, mind you," Kai explained, gesturing to Killian''s hand. "Your potion, with its current formula, would take at least ten seconds, likely leaving a scar. See the difference?" The one-eyed man stared at the healed wound, his jaw slacking with disbelief. Even if he hadn''t believed Kai''s initial words, the demonstration spoke for itself. He might have wondered if the potion was brewed by Kai himself and he was simply being lied to, but chances of that were low. Orion didn''t come across as stupid and he had clearly revealed his strength. As if to demonstrate what Kai was thinking, Orion asked, You really brewed that potion? I have no reason to lie to you. If you join us," Kai pressed his advantage, "you''ll have access to better resources, and more importantly, the chance to truly hone your craft. You''ll be a valuable asset to my territory and in return, I''ll see you well-equipped. Not just with ingredients, but with knowledge. You''ve got the raw talent, but you need refinement." Silence stretched between them, the only sound the rhythmic ticking of a dusty clock on the wall. The one-eyed man''s gaze flickered with indecision. Kai waited, his hands reaching for Orions potion while he swirled it inside the vial, seeing how the mixed ingredients had blended. When he looked up towards Orion, he saw how his single eye was focused on him, a lot of emotions passing by them. A moment of temptation or maybe it was his consideration towards his decisions. But it was quickly replaced by a sigh. "Look," he rasped, "we appreciate the offer, Lord Arzan. I truly do. But we''re settled here. Making do with what we have and it''s getting better. We have even" Just as the man seemed about to decline, a muffled boom echoed from below, followed by a string of unintelligible curses. The one-eyed man winced. "Apologies," he muttered. "Sounds like Edgar overshot his fire-breath potion recipe again." Kai couldn''t help but grin. "See? That''s exactly the kind of chaos we can avoid if you join us. Proper facilities, safer environment, and the chance to finally focus on perfecting your craft instead of patching holes in cauldrons." The man leaned back, a wry smile twisting his lips. "Tempting. Very tempting. But I wouldn''t want to burden you. I am confident in my skills, but we come with baggage that I''m pretty sure you don''t want to handle." Kai raised an eyebrow. "Baggage?" "Let''s just say, I had a bit of a disagreement with a certain adept mage back in the Archine Tower, he said, rubbing the back of his head with a frown. Ended up with a permanent block on my advancement and a one-way ticket to the slums." Kai absorbed the information and knew what he was talking about. Malden had mentioned tidbits about it but not the entire story of what happened. He guessed that he must have offended some Mage with enough power to destroy his career and when he had tried to go independent as an alchemist, no one had taken him up probably because of that same Mage. Either way, it didnt matter. "Malden hinted at something along those lines," Kai admitted. "And that seems to be the case for most of your companions. But listen, I don''t care about some political squabble in the tower. My territory is a week''s journey away from the capital. They won''t reach there, and even if they did, I''ll ensure your safety." He paused, a sincere note entering his voice. "But before we go any further, I''d like to hear the full story. What happened with the Mage in the Tower?" The one-eyed man met Kai''s gaze, a storm of emotions swirling in his eye. After a long, contemplative moment, he let out a heavy sigh. "Alright, Lord Arzan," he rumbled. "You''ve piqued my curiosity. Sit well and tell me if you need anything to drink. This might take a while." *** For the rest of the day, the one-eyed man recounted his tale with bitterness laced in his voice. Kai had been expecting a story of corruption and he hadn''t been wrong. By how Orion spoke of the tower, it felt like a place where ambition curdled into greed, where credit was snatched with ruthless efficiency, and where advancement relied more on political manoeuvring than raw talent. Stronger Mages, secure in their reputations, preyed on the research of up-and-coming alchemists like himself, stealing promising formulas and passing them off as their own. Most of the adepts participated in this web of deceit, using their influence to suppress those who threatened their positions. Orion described a series of incidents, his frustration simmering with each recollection. There was the time he''d developed a decent rejuvenation potion, only to see it claimed by a Mage who used it to curry favour with one of the savants. He spoke of countless sleepless nights spent perfecting a new method of crystal amplification, only to have his discovery stolen by a jealous rival who used it to secure a coveted research grant. As the alchemist spoke, Kai listened intently, the picture of the tower darkening in his mind. There was no wonder such things happened inside, it was, after all, a place for competition. And when theres competition, things always get dirty. But it had been worse than what he expected. Since Orion wasn''t a noble, but a commoner, he had no real power against these Mages and had to spend countless days feeling powerless and helpless. By the time the alchemist finished his story, the sun was dipping below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dusty office. Finally, Kai rose from his chair and offered his part of the deal for which the single-eyed man nodded and accepted. His final words were, You''ve got yourself a deal. I will convince the others. I wasn''t liking being in the slums either way and you have gained my interest with your potion. If you treat me and my subordinates right with respect, we will do our best to work for you. With Orion on board, along with his ragtag team of talented but ostracised alchemists, Kai felt a surge of optimism. He didn''t waste any time after that and returned to the library in the tower to focus on his research on ice magic. While the restricted sections of the library remained stubbornly out of reach, he wasn''t left empty-handed. The library had an extensive collection of basic first and second-circle ice spells, enough to provide him with a solid foundation for further exploration. He spent the rest of the evening meticulously studying these spells, dissecting their components, and visualizing the flow of mana. Hours melted away as Kai became engrossed in the intricacies of ice magic. The spells within the library were different from the ones he had learned back in the Sorcerer''s Tower, using different methods for the structure. Here, the incantations were more complex, relying more on visualisation of the spell rather than mana manipulation. It wasn''t anything he hadn''t expected and he knew it wouldn''t take too long for him to modify these spells for him. However, it took a while to understand ice spells. Their structure itself felt alien to him, different from the other spells he was accustomed to. Where fire spells were all about raw power and destructive force, ice magic seemed to be about control, about shaping and manipulating the very essence of cold. It was a subtle art, requiring finesse and precision. This was the foundation he needed, the building blocks upon which he could construct his own, more powerful ice spells. He devoured the information, memorizing glyphs, and tracing pathways of mana flow within his mind''s eye. As moonlight began to stream through the high library windows, Kai finally closed his fourth book on ice spells with a satisfied sigh. He''d made significant progress, laying a groundwork that would propel him forward. As his eyes wandered around in the almost empty library, his mind thought about the ball that was going to happen tomorrow. A social event that held little interest for him. He knew what was going to happen in it and even if getting a better look at the nobles wasn''t bad, he wasn''t particularly interested in it. If he replied positively to the prince''s offer, he would probably be invited to join their side in the succession. Otherwise, he would be ostracised, but that was something he was okay with. But after the ball, the duel would take place with Reyk. A shadow of a smile touched his lips. Both things were minor worries to him rather than something to be extremely concerned about. He had already decided on an answer to give to the prince and was looking forward to the duel. After all, he knew that Reyk was probably going to make it a social event, inviting other nobles to watch and it would be a good place to show a more formidable side of him. He stood up from the chair without a screech and closed all the books hed opened for his research. It was time to get some rest. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 88. The Ball Kai stood before a full-length mirror, feeling the formality of his noble attire weighing heavily on his shoulders. He wore something suitable for the ball that was supposed to be held today and was checking if everything was in order just in case. His eyes took in all the details of his garb. The crimson tunic, embellished with delicate silver embroidery that glimmered under the lamp, fit perfectly against his broad frame. The tailored trousers complimented the tunic, which made him content with his fitting. It wasn''t odd and at the same time, he wouldn''t stand out. To complete the outfit, he already had a few generational pieces of jewellery prepared. He wasn''t used to wearing anything that wasn''t an artifact of sorts, but it was common to wear rings or a bracelet at such events. Kai thought to himself. From the side of the mirror, he saw Malden, perched on a sofa checking the parchment in his hands. He was recounting everything that Kai had asked him to get. Well? Kai prompted. Maldens eyes shot up immediately. You look astonishing, My Lord Like a prince. He said with a grin on his face. Kai gave a short nod to his compliment. But it wasnt that he was referring to. About the list? He asked. Ive got almost everything on the list, Lord Arzan, Malden said and kept the piece of paper on the stack of thick parchments. As they had gotten into the capital, Kai had given specific work to everyone and Malden was asked to get various items and resources he would need to fight against the beast wave. Malden had been scrambling to get everything on the list and had done a good job if he could believe his words. Is that right? Kai asked again, to confirm his previous statement. "Construction materials for the blacksmith the Minotaur nearly drooled when he saw the reinforced steel beams and other mana-conductive materials. Vials and alchemical supplies galore for Orion and his group, the larvae materials I sold before to a few alchemists and shops around here came in hand in securing these. We can defend the walls of Veralt with these and speaking of the walls, I managed to snag a few seasoned wall builders. They''re already heading back under escort." Malden listed down everything, a proud grin forming on his pudgy face. Kai nodded in approval, a flicker of satisfaction warming his chest. The construction of the wall was already underway. The more manpower meant that the rest of the work should be completed soon. He needed to deal with the wards and the extra protection he could bring them once he was back. "Good work," he said, then recalled a specific item on the list. "Did you manage to find those seeds I mentioned?" A frown creased Kai''s brow as Malden shook his head. "The shadow seeds? Couldn''t find any in the market. Not surprisingly, those things aren''t exactly in high demand. But I did manage to secure a hefty batch of the full-grown shadow seed plants from a merchant who deals in them." Good work, Malden, Kai acknowledged him again, seeing the glint of satisfaction in Maldens eyes. The man was greedy for compliments. Hurry up on that. Make sure theyre delivered safely. Yes, Lord Arzan. Will do. Kai walked around the small space in the room and sat on the opposite sofa to Malden. Beside the pile of Maldens list, there was the list Killian had procured. It included all the names and titles of those who would be attending the ball. Since it was a royal ceremony, he knew he had to know who was who. Especially with him being exposed to a lot of important people, it would be lacking on his part if he didnt know their names or step on their metaphorical toes. Elite society was always very quick to take offence and he didn''t wish to make more enemies than intended in the ball. According to what he knew, Arzan hadnt been to such an event in years. The nobles had forgotten his name and this was a way for him to reassert his presence. However, he felt bored, even looking at the name list. His gaze drifted down further, noting the absence of the other members of royalty. Except for the first prince, Eldric Sullivan Lancephil, there was only one royal who was going to attend. She was a princess Princess Amara, the youngest sibling. Kai thought hard about the name, reflecting on the various scribes he had read, the journals written by Arzan, and even the conversations he had since coming to the capital. But none of them had mentioned Amara. It was as if her presence was bleak and no one gave her much heed to talk about her. Even in Killian''s list, there was no information on her other than her title as a princess. Princess Amara will be attending the ball tonight, Kai said, looking at Malden for a brief second and pulling his eyes back. By now, he knew Maldens behaviour. The man often waits till he hears something he knows so he can sprout what he does, or when he hears about something he doesnt, hed question more on it to know. "Princess Amara Not much in the public eye, is she? I heard rumours that she has some illness, something that keeps her confined to the palace. She shows her face once in a while in balls like these but largely stays away. It''s known that the king doesn''t like her much, but the reason behind it is unknown. Though, I heard it''s because she''s not his bio He stopped himself just in the knick of time. Could just be gossip, of course." Kai almost smiled at Maldens word vomit but shrugged, tossing the list back onto the table. "Gossip or not makes no difference to me. Just another name on a list." He looked up, catching Malden''s curious gaze. Kai acted nonchalant about the information on the princess. He didn''t want to do anything with her and she probably had died before Eldric had risen as a king if the rumours on the illness were true. "By the way, Lord Arzan. About the beans you had requested" Malden echoed. Yes? What are they used for, exactly? Are they used as an alchemical product? I''ve not heard about using shadow seeds in anything other than staining wood or insect control. Oh, and for odours. A slow smile spread across Kai''s face. "Actually. He chuckled. "Many underestimate the humble bean, Malden. But there''s more to them than meets the eye. Not many know this, but you can make a rather invigorating beverage from them. Once we get our hands on those shadow seeds, I''ll show you what I mean." Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Malden raised an eyebrow but nodded anyway. Thats alright, looking forward to it, my lord. Who cares about a bean now when weve more pressing matters at hand? Now, this ball its not just about social niceties as far as Im aware, he said, hesitating a bit before continuing. Will you use it to make political connections? Kai shook his head at that thought, not giving anything away. "Not quite. Right now, Im just a name on a list. I haven''t made any real moves yet, and don''t have the clout to pull off political machinations. But that could change with time and it probably would." Malden leaned forward. Yes, I believe so. With the king ageing and no clear heir chosen, the competition''s about to heat up. The ball will be a hotbed of speculations and observations, everyone trying to gauge the prince''s strength and weakness, trying to form a connection with him." "Succession is certainly getting interesting. Its getting into the middle phase. A lot of things are happening around it and the kingdom." Kai paused. Keeping a close eye on these events would be prudent." He almost let him on his thoughts but soon cowered his words. For Kai who wanted to change history, he needed to start from the Lancephil succession since it was one of the most pivotal parts in history. But he couldn''t rely on his historical knowledge for it and needed real-time information. Unfortunately, that was the hard part. Malden chuckled, a knowing look on his face. "Don''t worry, Lord Arzan. My network of informants keeps a keen eye on the political climate. Merchants are the most impacted by such things after all. Though let''s be honest, half the information you get from whispers and backroom deals is twisted or outright lies. Especially with something as big as the succession," he added, scratching his stubble. "Everyone''s got their agenda, pushing their own narrative. Discerning truth from fiction can be a real headache." Kai leaned back. "So, if hushes and networks aren''t reliable What then? What''s the best way to get an accurate picture of the succession?" Well Accurate information about the succession? Lord Arzan, thats a unicorn youre hunting for. He laughed at that. Kai soon understood where the man was coming from, but Malden continued. The only breaths that carry any weight come from the princes'' inner circles, their most trusted retainers. Maybe the King himself, or the Prime Minister if he''s still in the loop." He wiped a tear from his eye, his laughter subsiding into a chuckle as if he was imagining a way to get such information. If you want accurate information, you need someone who knows the ins and outs of the palace. Back in the day, I heard maids used to do it for gold but so many of them got executed that no one dares to do so now. Malden paused, carefully selecting his next words. Lord Arzan, I believe we are outsiders in the current succession, wild cards in this high-stakes game and getting such a person to give information is like searching for a dragon, but every noble, especially those who are neutrals wants to capture that dragon. *** The evening arrived rather soon and the air vibrated with a cacophony of sounds the rustle of silks, the clinking of glasses, and the drone of a hundred conversations at the same time. It had been quite some time since Kai walked through the large doors that were decorated with floral arrangements. When he walked inside, the crystal chandeliers cast a brilliant glow on the ballroom and gained his attention almost immediately illuminating the swirling forms of dancers and the rigid postures of nobles clinging to the edges of the room. But after staring at everything for a while, it all looked normal. He wasnt awestruck anymore by any decorations. In fact, Kai felt like a bear at a tea party. He stood stiffly in a corner, the drink in his hand slowly burning his throat. Around him, cliques of nobles formed and dissolved like swirling smoke, their conversations punctuated by forced laughter and empty compliments. He slowly took their figures into detail, thinking of who could be who. But soon, a hush fell over the room as a figure in a crimson and gold uniform, adorned with glittering medals, strode in. That was Prince Eldric, his face a mask of practised charm. Beside him walked a slender figure draped in a shimmering silver gown. , the name echoed in Kai''s mind. Her face, pale and drawn, bore the mark of illness. Yet he noticed the fire in her eyes, the way she held her head high despite her obvious frailty. Still, he could feel that she was pushing herself as she walked. A plump butler with a groomed moustache cleared his throat. "Presenting," he said aloud, his voice echoing through the hall, "His Royal Highness, First Prince Eldric Sullivan Lancephil, and Her Royal Highness, Princess Amara!" The room erupted in a flurry of bows and curtseys. - Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 89. Allies and enemies A ripple of commotion coursed through the ballroom as the prince and princess entered. Nobles, previously engrossed in their own social machinations, suddenly found themselves propelled towards the royal pair like moths to a flame. Kai watched the scene unfold with detached amusement. It was a ballet of ambition and flattery, a desperate scramble for the prince''s favour. By how some people ran towards them, some looked like theyd been waiting for their arrival ever since the ball started. His gaze flicked across the throng, mentally cataloguing the faces that converged upon Eldric, just so he knew who was on Prince Eldrics side. With a lot of barons and viscounts as well as the sons of three counts and one marquis, it was a powerful alliance. His eyes then lingered on the princess. Unlike her brother, who was engulfed in the throng, Amara was approached by a smaller, more intimate group of noble ladies. A wan smile graced her lips, but Kai, with his heightened senses, could detect the flickers of discomfort that marred her facade. A twitch of her hand, a slight tremor in her smile signs of a deeper struggle beneath the surface. Her skin, too, was an unsettling shade of pale, mirroring the ivory of her gown. Her face might have looked prettier without the obvious signs of sickness, but for now, she simply looked like she needed to be in her bed rather than in the ball. Kai shook his head internally at the lack of care from whoever was responsible, but again Having royal blood meant living in a house made of glass, and being expected of things that they had no control over to do, to feel and to attend. He remained a silent observer, an outsider in a sea of silks and jewels. As the dance floor began to fill, the music taking hold, a shadow fell across his path. A blonde, young man, his face smooth and his attire impeccably tailored, extended a hand towards Kai. It came out of nowhere and for a second, he examined his face, wondering if he was an old friend of Arzan like Reyk. It wasn''t as if he hadn''t considered that possibility. "Baron Arzan Kellius I presume? I am Leopold Blackwood, first son of Duke William Blackwood. The name struck a chord in Kai''s memory. A flicker of recognition sparked in his eyes. The necromancer theyd fought in Vasper Forest originated from the Duchy of Blackwood. But what he hadnt expected was for the son of the Duke to be here. Kai took Leopold''s hand, his grip firm. "Blackwood," Kai acknowledged. "A name that precedes you, Lord Leopold. I must admit, I wasn''t expecting to meet someone from your duchy at this event." From what he knew, it was a place that was far off from the capital, situated around the edges of the northern forest. Leopold smiled at that. The young man seemed genuine with every word he spoke next. "Indeed, However, I must confess, Lord Arzan, rumours of your presence here were highly anticipated, and I, for one, wouldn''t miss the chance to meet you. My father the duke, is highly thankful for vanquishing the necromancer." "It was simply my duty," he replied modestly. "A threat neutralised before it could fester." Leopold chuckled, a touch too hearty. "Duty, yes, but let''s not downplay the accomplishment. That creature was responsible for a great deal of suffering. And more than just suffering, for some of us. Kai simply nodded at his words. The young man paused and looked around, Kai followed his action. Both of their eyes hung on some people who were still hovering over the prince. Either way, Lord Arzan. We heard you''re facing a beast wave of your own." He locked eyes with Leopold immediately. "Indeed," he said dryly. "A situation that demands a strong front. Has Duke Blackwood decided the matter?" A flicker of satisfaction crossed Leopold''s face. He straightened slightly, a smug glint in his eyes. "The Duke," he declared, "is a man of action. As a token of his gratitude for your services, and a testament to our commitment to the kingdom''s well-being, he has authorised the dispatch of five hundred men to aid you in repelling the beast wave." Kai''s lips curved into a genuine smile. Five hundred trained men was a significant contribution, a welcome boost to his already meagre forces. "That''s excellent news," he said, his voice sincere. "Their aid will be invaluable in the coming fight." We all have a role to play, Lord Arzan. That vile necromancer was responsible for the deaths of many innocent souls. One of them, I confess, was a close cousin of mine." A flicker of dark clouds passed by his eyes and sudden understanding dawned on Kai. This wasn''t just about the beast wave. This was personal for Leopold and probably Duke Blackwood. Even if they didn''t care too much about his territory, they weren''t going to sit back and not help someone who they owed a great debt to. "My apologies, Lord Blackwood," Kai said, his voice softening. "I offer my sincerest condolences for your loss. The world is a better place without that heinous dark Mage, but that doesn''t lessen the pain it caused." That was the truth. Unfortunately, it was common for beasts, fiends and necromancers to kill people in the world, sometimes proving more fatal than even viral illnesses. He had also seen people''s death up close and lost those dear to him and because of that, his words came from a place far from indifference and weariness. It came from a place of sympathy and sincerity. "Indeed. But enough of such grim topics. Perhaps a drink to that, Lord Arzan? To a future free of necromancers and beast waves, he said. And please call me Leopold. Lord Blackwood is my father. Kai smiled at that, lifting his container filled with the drinks. This had been a surprise, but an expected one. He might have been a bit suspicious due to how smooth the talk was going, if not for the fact that he knew Duke Blackwood was one of the neutral ones in the succession, having not chosen any prince. When Kai had first gotten the news of a beast wave, he was quick to know not to put all the weight and hope in the kingdom. Which was why he had sent a letter to the Duke, inquiring about the possibility of aid. They didn''t have any relationship, but they certainly had a good base and goodwill to start one. Thankfully, it had worked better than he had expected. Leopold continued to discuss the conversation he had with his father about the beast wave. It was mostly information Kai already knew, but he nodded along to everything he said. Compared to how most nobles talked, Leopold was far more amiable and straightforward, being much more of a smooth talker than he had anticipated. Suddenly, a familiar face caught Kai''s eye. Prince Eldric, amidst the throng of nobles, beckoned him over with a gesture by his hand. "Excuse me for a moment," Kai said, gesturing towards the prince. "It seems I have the prince''s attention." Leopold, though slightly put out, managed a smile that turned into one of interest. With Leopold trailing behind him, Kai walked through the crowd towards Eldric''s entourage. The prince, a charming smile plastered on his face, greeted Kai with open arms. "Lord Arzan! Glad you could join us. How are you finding the festivities? The food? Excellent, isn''t it? Prince Eldrics voice raised at the question, almost as if he was expecting Kai to give an immediate response. I assume it is, Prince Eldric. Im yet to try the dishes. The ball is a splendid affair, Kai said politely. Prince Eldric was already surrounded by a lot of nobles, who expectedly waited for him to say anything and everything. It put Kai on the spot as well and as he entered the group, every pair of eyes fell on him. This is Lord Arzan, the Baron of the city of Veralt. I know most of you might not know of him, but the Heat stones are his idea! He created them I''m pretty sure lots of you have used them to hide the wrath of Frosania, he asked aloud. Murmurs of agreement immediately rippled through the nearby nobles, their eyes gleaming with a mix of admiration and thinly veiled greed. Their words reached Kai with different compliments, some appreciating more than the other. Lord Arzan, I tried those heat stones consistently, and Ive to give it to you Much better than lighting the fireplace. Indeed. My wife appreciated the custom-made Heat stones as well. The tall man who gave the compliment earned a small smile from Kai. "Im glad it was to your liking, your highness And all of you." Prince Eldrics lips curled to a smile when he turned back to the group of nobles, his voice booming once more. "And speaking of benefits, Lord Arzan, what are your thoughts on my decision to increase the Heat stone distribution to provide for the whole kingdom and even our neighbours?" Kai felt a pit forming in his stomach. He knew exactly where this was going. This wasn''t a casual inquiry. This was a public display of power, an attempt to corner him into public approval. He glanced around the room, taking in the expectant faces of the nobles. A chorus of "wise decision" and "a boon for the kingdom" would likely follow his next words. But Kai wouldn''t play this game. He wouldn''t be Eldric''s public pawn. Taking a deep breath, he met the prince''s gaze directly. "Your Highness," he began, his voice calm and collected. "While I commend your initiative in ensuring the well-being of the populace by preparing for the next months of Frosania, I believe the current distribution system, managed by the capable merchant who originally assisted with the distribution, has proven efficient. Id like to maintain my relationship with the merchant for now. I thank you for the offer, but Id like to reject it." Kai felt like he heard gasps and chatters from around, but his eyes were directed at Prince Eldric, who was frozen on the spot. His eyes which were friendly moments ago now bore more than a hint of resentment in them. *** The scent of lilies, usually a comforting fragrance, felt suffocating tonight. Amara wrinkled her nose, the tight bodice of her gown digging into her ribs with every shallow breath. Balls always felt the same; a suffocating display of wealth and forced smiles. Tonight, however, the pain gnawed at her with a particular ferocity. Some days when the pain got unbearable, even the best medicines from the highly sought out alchemists would do little to curb the pain. And right now, every twitch of her hand, every tremor in her leg, screamed at her to retreat, to find the cool solace of her bedchamber. But retreat wasn''t an option. Her brother, Eldric had beeninsistent. His words echoed in her mind, laced with a masked threat. Mother had instructed your presence with me at the ball and if you didn''t join me, she would be hurt. Perhaps, she might even come here to talk to you about your well-being. The mere mention of their mother, a woman as cold and unforgiving as the winter winds, was enough to send shivers down Amara''s spine. It was a low blow, even for Eldric. So, she endured. Her maids, bless their hearts, fussed over her, layering silks and jewels onto her frail frame. Each brushstroke of makeup felt like a violation, a futile attempt to mask the ravages of illness gnawing at her from within. A pang of guilt stabbed at her heart. Balls were Eldric''s passion, a way to solidify his image as the people''s prince. She knew he craved her support, and tonight, more than ever, he needed a united front. But what good was a princess who couldn''t stand for even a dance? A wave of nausea threatened to rise, and she gripped the armrest of her chair, forcing it down. She wouldn''t give Eldric the satisfaction of seeing her weakness. The doors creaked open, and a flurry of activity filled the room. Her maids backed away, their worried glances were swallowed when the doors closed. "Amara?" Eldric''s voice, usually jovial, held a hint of concern. "Ready?" She forced a smile and nodded slowly. When they entered, the inane chatter of the noblewomen swirled around Amara, a meaningless symphony that blurred into a dull hum. Their discussions included everything that related to the kingdom and nothing she wanted herself to do anything with. They mostly revolved around men, balls, interesting places they have visited and delicacies they have tasted. She listened, smiled, nodded and even gave monotonous answers when possible. It was then things got harder for her. Ten minutes had stretched into an eternity, each forced smile and polite reply draining the remaining energy from her frail body. A clammy chill seeped from within, spreading goosebumps across her arms despite the warmth of the ballroom. Her hand fluttered to her chest, a frantic search for some semblance of comfort against the rising tide of pain. sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Escape. It became her singular focus. She needed air, needed the suffocating confines of the room to vanish. She looked around and saw her brother freeze in the middle of a group of men. His hands to his sides, eyes wide and even his mouth gape open. By the expression of the men around him, she knew that someone had said something they shouldn''t have. But that wasnt her problem right now, she had to get away from here. I I have to find my maid, ex-excuse me, she said in just above a whisper. The women that surrounded her nodded frantically, some looking at her with concern and others with astonishment. Amara knew that more rumours would probably spread by the next morning, but she didn''t bother with any of them. From the corner of her eye, she saw a guy approaching her, a smile on his lips. She knew what he was going to ask, but she had no time or strength for this. Therefore, she withdrew herself, not giving a single glance more to the young noble. She walked past the long curtains and slowly made her way towards the balcony, each step felt like a battle against the treacherous tremors wracking her body. Out in the cool night air, the chill intensified, though strangely, it felt welcoming compared to the stifling warmth inside. She closed her eyes and hugged herself, taking deep breaths. When she opened her eyes she saw stars twinkling like a scattering of diamonds across the velvet sky, a fleeting moment of beauty in a world that felt increasingly cruel. Time blurred into a haze of pain and shivering. The world seemed to distort at the edges, the once-familiar garden swaying drunkenly. A low groan escaped her lips, a sound lost in the symphony of the night. No one could hear her anyway. She slowly reached for the pouch and grabbed a pill, swallowing it with much effort. Her hands came up to clutch her sides. The pain increased from everywhere. Her gut, her ribs, and it went down to the very point of her toes. She was staring at the sky for one second, and then, the world lurched sickeningly. Her eyes clouded with one thought in her mind, she would be better unalive. Which God cursed her and for what reason? What has she ever done The blurriness of her surroundings increased. "Princess Amara?" An unfamiliar voice, sharp and concerned, cut through the fog. A single tear traced a path down her pale cheek. "II don''t feel well," she managed, the words slurred and ragged. The world tilted violently, and then darkness claimed her. The last thing she registered was the strong feel of a hand on her shoulder and a single strand of warmth entering her body through it. - Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 90. Surgery Kai hadn''t anticipated the public spectacle of his refusal. It was supposed to be a private affair where he would diplomatically decline and be on his way. Now, with a handful of pairs of noble eyes glued to him, the depth of his words grew heavier by the second. With the nobles who clearly sided with Eldric right behind him, the entire situation became a matter of face and respect. Eldric''s face, moments before a picture of charming authority the facade of a prospect for the future crown, had morphed into a thundercloud. The prince''s jaw clenched tight, a muscle in his temple twitching like a trapped critter. The nobles behind him looked at him like he had just unravelled his plan to kidnap the king in front of them. Kai looked to his left. Leopold stood straight, clearly finding amusement in the situation. He seemed to be stopping himself from smirking. When he noticed Kais gaze, he widened his eyes, a silent question passing between them as if he was asking What the hell did you just say?. If Kai could, hed shrug his shoulders at that though, time was of the essence. He needed to defuse the situation before Eldric unleashed his royal fury on an unsuspecting ballroom. Easily, Kai could become the next big thing that the entire kingdom talked about. And he didnt want that. Not yet, at least. Stepping forward, Kai cleared his throat, the sound echoing through the sudden hush that had fallen over the crowd nearby. Though the music and the chatters from the ladies on the side were unbothered at what was going on with the prince. "Your Highness, I understand your concern for the well-being of the kingdom, and I commend your initiative." He paused. Eldric remained silent, his gaze unwavering, daring Kai to continue. If gazes could throw daggers, Kai would be fighting for his life. "However," Kai continued, pushing forward, I believe I''m not well suited to work with you on this initiative and fulfil the demands of the entire kingdom. We could discuss other ventures later and I would find you to discuss more about the beast wave and its logistics. For now, I would like to take my leave and discuss a few matters with Leopold here. He threw a glance at Leopold, hoping he would catch on and Eldric wouldn''t try to make an issue out of his rejection here. From the look of things, he was trying to portray an image of a calm and collected ruler and lashing out won''t help it, no matter what the reason might be. As if on cue, Leopold stepped forward. "Yes, your highness. We will take our leave. With that, Leopold took a step back, a silent invitation. Kai, seizing the opportunity, took it with a grateful smile after giving a respectful nod to Eldric. The prince didn''t seem to have expected him to walk away like this and was too stumped to say much. Soon, they strode away from the stunned group of nobles, leaving Eldric fuming behind. As Kai walked away with Leopold, thoughts churned with a conflicting mix of adrenaline and tension. He had just rejected the prince in front of his lackeys and rumours were bound to spike up about it. He was also pretty sure that he won''t get much out of the kingdom in aid and in their next meeting, Eldric might not be amiable. He doubted the prince was going to do anything questionable straightaway. At most, he would wish for his territory to be razed down by the beast. sea??h th n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai suddenly met eyes on him and as he looked sideways, Leopold met his gaze with a slow grin. I wonder if you are crazy or brave?" he chuckled. His voice tone itself spoke volumes to say that he was in admiration. To say that to a prince? "Perhaps a bit of both. This political arena is like a battlefield and I believe I just provoked a rather strong warrior." Leopold couldnt help but smile. At least you have the guts for it. That''s always important in battlefields. Out of the corner of his eye, Kai caught a glimpse of Eldric, still fuming amidst the chattering nobles. Whenever he spoke to someone, his jaw ticked while he threw daggers at the side where Kai was. A sigh escaped his lips. This little rebellion wouldn''t come without consequences and he had broken all bridges with him. But he doubted the prince was ever on his side if his theory on the whole beast wave situation is true. "I need some air," he muttered, gesturing towards the balcony. "Before the prince decides to stage a public execution." Leopold''s grin widened. "Excellent idea. And speaking of executions I wouldn''t miss your duel with Count Chase''s son tomorrow. I have seen a few of his duels and he''s good. I really wonder how your skills would stand in front of him. You already know of it? Kai asked. Most nobles do. Reyk is going around inviting everyone to make it a spectacle of sorts. I don''t know what happened between you two, but he clearly hates you. I don''t know about that myself. Kai shrugged, wondering how Reyk was going to react when he would lose in the duel in front of the nobles he had personally invited. Although the duel had come out of nowhere, it was also a way for him to show himself off to the kingdom elite and a turning point in forming his public image. His thoughts died down as he felt another piercing gaze on his back. He shook it off and walked towards the balcony doors where guards stood on the sides. He gave a brief nod at one of them who stared at him. Pushing them open and stepping out into the cool night air, he felt a sense of relief wash over him. He could only stay here until the prince got embroiled in other topics and could later slip out of the ball. Maybe he could even go out and explore this part of the castle as he hadn''t been here before. As he stepped towards the railings, he froze. A figure out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. Princess Amara, her face a shade of pale unlike he''d ever seen, leaned against the railing, her body wracked with tremors despite the cool night. A cold sweat clung to her skin, and her eyes held a vacant, almost haunted look. A jolt of unease shot through Kai. This wasn''t just fatigue. There was something off about her. She was on her knees before he knew it, clutching to her sides and whimpers escaping her parted lips. He approached her cautiously, not willing to ignore her. There was a strange energy emanating from the princess, a ripple of mana fluctuating around her uneasiness filled his gut. Reaching her side, he knelt before the princess, his voice laced with concern. "Princess Amara?" Kai''s unease escalated into a full-blown panic as he drew closer to the princess. There was no mistaking it now a coldness radiated from her, a sickly energy that gnawed at the very fabric of life. Her breaths came in shallow gasps, each one a struggle. If he didnt help her, shed be a lifeless form pretty soon. He didn''t need to be a medical expert to know that. Ignoring the prickle of uncertainty, Kai reached out, his hand hovering over hers. A tendril of his own mana flowed forth. It was him playing the odds, a desperate attempt to stabilise her failing body. The energy flowed cautiously, a gentle current seeking purchase in the churning chaos within her. If he was right, her mana was going unstable for some reason, destroying her from inside and it didn''t look like it was a short term problem. Probably this was a symptom of whatever sickness she was suffering from. Kai knitted his brows in focus. Slowly, ever so slowly, the tremors in Amara''s body began to subside. Her breaths deepened, the fight ebbing from them replaced by a fragile peace. A sheen of sweat receded from her brow, and a faint but steady pulse returned to her wrist. Relief washed over Kai, a wave of exhaustion following close behind. As he focused on the lingering energy signature within her, his eyes widened in shock at what he found. Before he could voice it out, his attention broke by a sharp intake of breath that came from behind. A maid had appeared at the far end of the balcony. Her eyes darted between Kai, kneeling beside the princess, and Amara''s now-peaceful form and how he held her in his arms. The way the maid looked at him said a lot of things mainly, that this little encounter could be turned into a major misunderstanding. *** Relief flooded Kai as it wasnt just any maid who found them; it was Amara''s personal maid and once he introduced himself and explained the situation, she immediately understood what had happened. "Your Highness," she said softly, kneeling beside the princess and checking her pulse. "Thank goodness you found her. I was searching for her since she wasnt in the ball. It seems tonight''s activities were too much for her. Her health hadn''t been the best in the last few weeks," she muttered in just above a whisper. Kai stayed silent, looking at Amaras state. He didnt know what to say except to suggest solutions for her ailment. "We need to get her inside, she continued. Can you take her inside? Ill show you where to go. Her brown eyes bore at Kai pleadingly. The urgency of her voice was concerning and it seemed like she had an idea that Amara''s condition was still far from the best. Sure, Kai uttered and scooped Amara into his arms. She was unsurprisingly light, her frail frame was perhaps even lighter than even a kid. This way, Lord Arzan, the maid said and started walking to a corner of the balcony where there was another door that led towards a small pathway. They moved through it for a while and soon, the maid opened up the doors of the princess''s bedroom. What about the guards? Why cant we request their help? Its the princess, Kai stated as a matter of fact and slowly placed her on the bed. The maid closed the door silently and looked at him straight. We can''t take help from the guards. It had to be discreet. If it comes out that the princess had lost her consciousness, Prince Eldric would accuse Her Highness of stealing his spotlight. He hosted the ball, therefore he is the one that should be the centre of attention tonight." Kai nodded, his lips pursed in a thin line. Royal family dynamics were something he wasn''t much privy to. He knew the princes didn''t get along, but it seemed like even Amara wasn''t well liked. The maid rushed to a bedside table, her movements efficient as she retrieved a vial filled with shimmering capsules. "These are her medicines, Lord Arzan," she explained, holding up the vial. "A special concoction from the royal alchemist, formulated for her condition." Kai eyed the capsules with a tight frown. He recognized the faint hum of mana coming from them and he could guess what they did. At the same time, her condition wasn''t something medicines can help with. "They won''t work," he stated bluntly. The maids hand froze mid-air. "What do you mean? These are the best available!" "They might be for a normal illness, this this is something different." He shook his head and looked at Amara. "Your Highness is suffering from a rupture in her mana heart. Her mana core, the very source of her magical power, is fractured. These pills are merely a temporary suppressant, a band-aid on a gaping wound." Her eyes widened further in shock. Just as Kai thought the maid couldnt be shocked further, he was proved wrong. Her hand slowly moved to place the vial filled with pills on the side table near the bed. How did your lordship know what she suffers from? Her question came out in a suspicious tone. "What can we do?" She whispered when Kai didnt reply immediately, her voice trembling. "These pills are all we have" "We need a different way to heal her, at least temporarily." Kai nudged his chin towards the vial that was on the table. As to answer your previous question, Im a Mage. And Ive seen the effects of Mana Heart rupture before. Thats how I know Her Highnesss disease. And well, I felt it when I was pushing mana into her earlier. Her heart is broken literally and it''s already a miracle that she''s still He didn''t say more, but he didn''t have to. "But How can you help? The maid asked. Other than the pills, I know nothing that could help her." Kai knelt beside the bed. "There''s a risky procedure I can perform. Can you trust me for a bit?" Lord Arzan, it''s the princess life we are talking about here. I know that, but trust me, if you feed her those pills, they would simply put her in a state of sleep and try to stabilise her broken core. Once she wakes up, she would again suffer from the same thing, he said, not wanting to explain further. Just let me do what I can. I will take responsibility. Taking a deep breath, Kai placed his hand gently on Amara''s chest. The coldness radiating from her body sent a shiver down his spine. Yet he pushed through it. He needed to focus, to channel his mana with utmost precision. This will be uncomfortable for the princess, but I need complete silence and stillness." The maid nodded, her eyes glued to Amara''s face. She walked around the bed and sat on the other side of the bed, squeezing the princess''s hand. Kai placed his hand gently on her chest, his fingers tracing a line over her sternum before forming a small, precise cut with the sharp edge of a mana blade. Blood dripped from it to the neatly arranged fresh bedding, Kai couldn''t care less about it. His eyes narrowed in concentration, and he pushed a steady stream of mana through the incision. The maid''s eyes widened, her face going pale at his actions. He met her eyes briefly, offering a reassuring nod before returning his focus to the task at hand. His mana flowed smoothly, like a river of light, finding its way around her mana core. The core itself was fractured, its seamless surface marred by deep fissures. Kai could sense the instability, the chaotic swirl of energy threatening to break free. He took a deep breath, channelling his mana with careful precision. His own core pulsed in response, a steady rhythm that he used to guide his efforts. It was almost as if he could hear two heartbeats and feel two mana flows at the same time; one steady, the other not so much. He visualised his mana as threads of light, weaving them around Amara''s damaged core. The threads intertwined, forming a resilient lattice. He could feel the strain, the resistance of the core''s fractured state pushing back against his efforts. Sweat beaded on his forehead, and he maintained his focus, knowing that any lapse could result in catastrophic failure. The maid gasped, her body trembling slightly as the mana threads began to take hold. Kai''s threads acted as a temporary scaffold, providing structure and stability where there had been none. He worked quickly, his mana threads knitting together the broken pieces of her core with meticulous care. Each knit was careful, his hands steady, breath coming in shallow gasps. As the lattice took shape, the core''s chaotic energy began to settle. To top it off, he sent another thread of mana and crystallised it around the stitches, so they wouldn''t break. Seconds passed by when he did the same procedure to the other side of the neatly done stitches. Kai let his mana threads complete the final stitch and turn it into a binding. A sigh escaped his lips when he was done. He looked at the maid immediately. It''s okay for now. Keep an eye on her. She should wake up in a few hours. Is she really okay? The maid asked, her voice quivering as she looked at Amara who was now beginning to take steady breaths. Yes. He nodded, knowing that whatever he said, the maid would only completely believe him when the princess would wake up. My method should keep her core intact. But he knew this was only a temporary solution. The stitches he had created were not a permanent fix they would hold for now, giving the princess some time to find a permanent solution for the core. Kai withdrew his hand slowly, the incision sealing itself with a faint shimmer. He felt the residual mana dissipate, leaving behind a faint tingle in his fingertips. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Sorry was busy yesterday. Really happy with the response to yesterday chapter. Thank you so much you all! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 91. Salvation in ice Amara had always felt a cold stone lodged in her chest. It wasnt a heart, not really. It was an icy chasm, a void where warmth and emotion should have resided. Mages had confirmed her suspicions. Her heart was shattered. From the moment she drew her first breath, her world had been in pain. The joy and wonder that painted the childhood canvas in vibrant paintings were absent in her world. It was a monochrome existence, devoid of the warmth that bathed others. Awakening as a Mage, a milestone for most, had been a bitter pill for her. The surge of magical energy within her had only amplified the icy desolation. She had often wondered if one day there was going to be salvation. But she had been told repeatedly that there was no solution to her shattered heart. She was meant to live like this. In that state, she had given up on being able to feel normal long back and had only wished for a normal death. Hence, when she opened her eyes to a glaring expanse of white, she wondered if it had arrived. But even here, the cold followed her, the heart straining with each breath. The cold seeped into her bones as she wandered through the alien landscape. Her breath fogged in the frigid air, opposite to the internal inferno raging within her. Her heart, or what remained of it, felt like a fragile ice sculpture, teetering on the brink of oblivion. Yet, she walked on. Her steps echoed in the icy expanse. Her gaze, empty and distant, scanned the horizon, searching for something, anything, to break the monotony. Salvation. Or simply, a reason to keep walking. She wondered if she was going to be trapped here, never to be able to feel truly happy. It was then that she felt something inside of her. A warmth, unfamiliar and comforting, began to weave its way through her. It was as if invisible threads of sunlight were being woven into a sweater, enveloping her in a cocoon of solace. The icy chasm within her chest began to thaw, the relentless ache subsiding like melting snow. For the first time in her life, she could feel her heartbeat without pain. A steady, rhythmic pulse that defied the icy wasteland she had found herself in. Fear and wonder warred within her as she looked inward, into the depths of her being. There, nestled in the thawing ice, was a fragile, nascent heart, beating with a tentative rhythm. Tears, hot and cleansing, streamed down her face. The icy landscape around her transformed into a tumultuous sea, waves of emotion crashing against the shores of her consciousness. The pain, the loneliness, the endless winter they were all there, raw and exposed. And then, as abruptly as it had begun, the vision ended. A single tear escaped her eye, tracing a glistening path down her cheek before disappearing into the soft fabric of her pillow. The dream was over, but the echo of its warmth lingered. Amara blinked, her vision adjusting to the dim light of her room. A dull pain lanced through her chest, a reminder of the ordeal she had just endured. She looked down to find a neatly stitched wound, the edges sealed with a faint blue glow. Despite that, for the first time, she felt better than ever. Her heart beat slowly and her skin wasn''t cold. As she realised it, something took her attention. Voices drifted through the room, the soft cadence of feminine concern and a deeper, more authoritative tone. She turned her head to find her maid, Anya, engaged in conversation with a stranger. The man was unfamiliar, tall and had a distinct air around him. He seemed to be explaining something. She should be okay. But there are always complications associated with Mana Heart surgeries, he said in a polite voice. Nothing looks suspicious to say theres a complication. She should be waking up soon, the man whispered. Thank you, Anya thanked the man with her voice filled with relief. Yes Dont worry The stranger, upon catching Amara''s gaze, offered a reassuring smile. "You''re awake," he said, his voice gentle. Anya, startled by Amara''s sudden alertness, rushed to her side, her hands trembling slightly as she checked her vitals. "Princess Amara! You''re awake! How do you feel?" Amara''s voice was a whisper, barely audible over the soft rustling of bedsheets. "I feel better than ever, truly," she managed to say, a sense of wonder mixed with disbelief. The stranger stepped closer, his eyes filled with a curious intensity. "May I check your pulse?" he asked, his voice gentle. Amara hesitated, uncertainty crossing her face. But the trust in Anya''s eyes and the man''s calmness gave her the courage to nod. His fingers, warm and gentle, found her pulse. He closed his eyes, concentrating for a moment before opening them again. "It''s...remarkable," he said softly. "The temporary surgery seems to have exceeded expectations." Amara''s eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Who are you?" she asked, her voice stronger now. "I''m Arzan Kellius. The Baron of the City of Veralt," he replied, offering a warm smile. I found you in a critical situation by the balcony and Anya soon came looking for you. Your heart was compromised and was too strained. I had to act quickly." Anya rubbed soothing circles around Amaras palm, over and over. "Lord Arzan found you and brought you here. He saved your life." Kai nodded. "I performed a temporary procedure to stabilize your condition. Essentially, I stitched your heart back together and crystallised it to keep it in place. Unfortunately, this means you won''t be able to use magic for the time being, but there won''t be any pain." Amara''s eyes widened in shock. "No pain?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper. Kai nodded a hint of sadness in his eyes. "At least not for now. The mana used in the procedure will eventually dissipate, and then you''ll need a more permanent solution. But for now, you''re safe." The words rang in her mind heavily tears welled up at that. She had lived a life of pain and suffering. To be told that she could finally experience a life without it was overwhelming. "Please," she said, her voice trembling, "can I be alone for a few moments?" Arzan nodded understandingly. "Of course." Anya took Amara''s hand, offering silent comfort as the door closed behind Kai. Amara was alone with her thoughts, a whirlwind of emotions swirling within her. *** Kai breathed a sigh of relief as Amara calmed down. He ran a hand through his hair, his mind racing. Mana surgery was a dangerous procedure, often reserved for the most dire of circumstances. He had never imagined performing such a procedure in the heart of a royal ball. The risks were immense, but desperation had fueled his actions. Thankfully, his years of studying the intricacies of the human body, born out of necessity in the harsh realities of the end times, had prepared him for this moment. He wasnt too interested in the anatomy of a Mage''s body. But since he had to deal with injured Mages all the time in his last life, he had learnt quite a lot that included the procedure he did on her. In his era, magical surgeries had been researched and there were even theories on how to make a mortal into a Mage. Every Mage was expected to know a thing or two about it since you never know when you need it. When Amara called him back in, he was struck by the change in her appearance. The pallor had faded, replaced by a healthy glow. It wasnt just in her looks, it was how she looked at him as if suddenly everything was better. The vest that Kai had to cut to perform the surgery had been removed and replaced by a fresh one. No more blood stains and her complexion looked less pale. "Thank you," Amara said, her voice filled with sincerity. "You saved my life." Her eyes held a depth of gratitude that made Kai feel a strange warmth. He had always been a solitary figure, content in the quiet pursuit of knowledge. But seeing the impact of his actions on another human being always made him feel good on the inside. I had completely given up on feeling like this. It had been my dream to wake up one day and feel no pain. "I simply did what needed to be done," he replied simply. Can I ask you a question? Amara hesitated for a moment, her eyes filled with curiosity. Kai nodded, urging her to continue. He had his arms on his hips as he stared down at the princess who was on the bed. "How were you able to heal me? Even the kingdom''s best Mages and alchemists were unable to find a cure." Kai had anticipated this question. "It''s a long story," he began, choosing his words carefully. During my awakening as a Mage, I was found to have a condition of mana blockage in my veins. Although not as painful as your condition, it meant I wouldn''t be able to wield magic. Unable to accept it, I delved deep into the mysteries of mana. In the process, I developed a deep understanding of the human body and its interaction with magic. A few months ago, I managed to overcome my affliction. It was through this journey that I developed theories about healing conditions like Mana Heart ruptures." He paused, allowing his words to sink in. "When I saw your condition, I realised I had a chance to put my theories to the test. Thankfully, it worked." Amara listened intently, her eyes wide with wonder. It was as if a new world was opening up before her. Kai''s mind raced. Mana surgery was a discipline centuries ahead of its time and he wasn''t sure if his explanation would suffice, but there was no other way out of it. If he was right, mana surgeries would only come up centuries later due to a necromancer who had given his whole life to study the human body and tried to form the strongest zombies out of them. In his research, he had dissected countless Mages and even if he wasn''t successful, his research had helped another Mage to be able to later repurpose it to discover mana surgeries. Im still thankful, she said, bowing her head as little as she could as royalty in front of Kai. He simply nodded and one more question came up. What did you mean by the surgery being temporary? Her eyes looked up in confusion. "It''s a temporary measure, Princess Amara. The stitches will dissolve in a few months, and your condition will revert. To provide a permanent solution, I would need to perform a much more complex surgery." Amaras curious eyes ignited with hope. "Can you do it?" Kai hesitated. "It would require extensive preparation and time," he replied, his words careful. "I simply don''t have the luxury of both." Anya, sensing the gravity of the situation, tried to interject. Lord Arzan, we have time Before she could complete what she was about to say, Amara silenced her with a stern look. "I understand," she said, her voice firm. I''m already thankful that you were able to heal me, albeit temporarily." Kai nodded, giving a small smile. He knew Amara wanted him to solve her problem permanently, but he had no time or resources to do it. He had even showed off his skills only because she might have died without his help. "One more thing," he said, his voice serious. "I need you to give me an oath not to reveal what I''ve done." Amara''s eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Why?" "Well, its not a simple thing. I just dont want to reveal my abilities and the tower won''t let me be if they found I could heal broken mana cores. It would bring too much of a change in the magic society all over the world and I don''t have any means to survive that much attention If you understand what I mean, Kai weaved his words carefully. The kingdom would protect you. I would. I have my territory to tend to and I''m far too weak. Even if I trust your words, you know that the kingdom isn''t in the most stable situation with the succession. Please. He hoped the princess wasn''t going to insist. She had made a good impression on him till now and he wouldn''t liked to show off more of his spells to get out of this situation. If he could, he wanted to solve it with words. Thankfully, she nodded. I swear by the essence of mana running in my body that we wouldnt let anything about this procedure be known to another living soul, Amara said aloud just for them to hear and placed her hand over her heart. The oath was soon sealed by a light red colour glow which soon died. She looked at the maid and she did the same. Kai was satisfied by their actions and he knew his job here was done. "And one last thing," Kai continued. "I would like to keep track of your condition. It would be bad if your highness condition faltered again. Perhaps we could exchange letters?" Amara hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Of course," she replied. With one final glance at Amara, Kai turned and left the room. The voices of two women became just another whisper in the air. *** Amara lay on her bed, her heart beating a soothing melody in the quiet room. The warmth that had filled her during the surgery still lingered. It was new, and it was now a part of her own. She turned her head to look at Anya, who was sitting by the window, her eyes lost in thought. "Anya," she began, her voice soft. "Did you notice anything unusual about him during the surgery? Was he hesitating when he was doing the surgery?" Anya''s attention snapped back to Amara. "He was very focused, your highness. But he didn''t hesitate at all. It was as if he knew exactly what to do, every step of the way." Amara nodded, her mind racing. Sear?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Interesting. It was an odd observation. If a noble had been in Arzans position, the pressure to succeed would have been immense. One wrong move and their heads would roll. Yet, the Baron had displayed a level of calm and confidence that was almost unnerving almost as if he had done the same thing countless times before. And the way he talked about it She had dismissed his explanation about being born with a mana blockage, but now, doubt crept into her mind. One thing was sure he had lied to her about it being his first rupture surgery. He knew more than what he let on and even if she owed him her life, her curiosity wouldn''t let her sleep. "Anya," she said. "Find out everything you can about him. I need to know who he is and what he''s capable of." Anya''s eyes widened in surprise. "But Princess Amara..." Amara cut her off. "I''ve spent years feeling like a ghost," she shook her head at that thought. "Now I finally feel alive. So, do as youre told." - Thank you so much for reading. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 92. POV of a Knight While Lord Arzan was busy with the ball and everything else that went on inside the palace, Killian was immersed in his things. Among them, his priority was practising and enhancing the techniques he already knew along with training the guards. To do that, he had already gotten permission to use part of the palace courtyard as a training ground. Currently, Killian was in a mock battle with three guards and Gorak. He knew only Ansel among the guards well; the man would repeatedly ask him questions back in Veralt and even participate in his personal training sessions. The other two were newbies that had joined recently and Gorak had agreed to take part in it because he was bored. Killian stood poised, his eyes flicking between the three guards and Gorak, their figures circling him. The tension was palpable, but it wasnt something he couldnt handle. Without warning, the first guard lunged at him, sword gleaming in the broad sunlight. Killian sidestepped effortlessly, his movements a blur. In a fluid motion, he countered, his sword striking with lethal precision. The guard fell, clutching his side as he crumpled to the ground. He gave him a second glance, just to make sure that the guard wasnt harmed. He moved to put distance between a charging guard and looked at him mockingly. He planned to take on the two newbies first and then focus on Ansel and Gorak. Taking the bait, the guard launched forward, pushing his sword forward. His speed and ferocity were expected as Killian prepared to deftly twist, invoking his [Lightning Step], his form disappearing and reappearing in a flash of movement. The guard''s blade swung through empty air, leaving him momentarily unbalanced. Seizing the opportunity, Killian''s sword struck out, disarming the second guard with a swift, decisive blow. The newbies were both out of his hair. Now, it was the turn of Gorak and Ansel who patiently waited for their turn, calming observing the battle till now. Gorak watched with a cold, calculating gaze, his experience evident in his measured movements. He stepped forward, joining the fray just as Ansel pushed himself forward and resumed his assault. Killian knew he had to be strategic; Ansel could predict his moves, and Gorak''s seasoned prowess was a threat he couldn''t underestimate. He focused, his mind narrowing to a single point of clarity. His sword became an extension of his will, each block and parry calculated with precision. He drew Ansel and Gorak closer, manipulating their movements with his own, bringing them to the right where he wanted them. Killians mastery of the [Lightning Step] had become second nature by this point and he was in control of it, an evidence of his training. But now, he sought more than speed. Lord Arzan had told him to think more about the properties of lightning and what he felt while thinking about it, focus on the sensation it gave him and throughout their travel to the capital, Killian had been pondering upon it. He had realised that lightning was not just fast it was powerful, precise, and full of untapped potential. He wanted to tap into that potential and use the lightning to wield powerful attacks, just as Lord Arzan did. If he can''t do it, he will never be able to stand against the upcoming beast wave. As Gorak and Ansel closed in, their intent clear, Killian felt the storm building within him. He let the power surge through his veins, channelled it through his arms, and into his blade. Lightning crackled along the edge, a brilliant blue glow that illuminated the dark courtyard. With a guttural roar from his throat, he unleashed the [Lightning Strike]. The energy exploded from his blade, a searing arc that cut through the air with devastating force and hit the ground right in front of him. The force even managed to throw him back and he barely held onto his sword. Killian''s feet stomped on the ground, trying to keep his balance. Ansel and Gorak were caught in the blast, their weapons clattering to the ground as they were thrown back, stunned and defeated. The lightning hadn''t been as powerful as he expected, but it was still too much for the two to defend against. sea??h th ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The courtyard instantly fell silent, the echo of the strike lingering in the air. In a matter of seconds, the fight was over. Ansel and Gorak were defeated, their eyes wide with astonishment. The former simply stared at him with an incomprehensible expression while the latter frowned, clearly not happy about losing such a lopsided battle. The other guards, who had witnessed the spectacle, exchanged hushed whispers. The two newbies who had been defeated first looked at him in horror and it was clear that they were thankful they hadn''t been on the opposite end of the attack. Gorak, his pride temporarily humbled, managed a croak, breaking the silence. "What was that?" Killian sheathed his sword, the lingering electricity sparking around the blade. Just another attack I have been working on," he replied simply. "I''ve been learning a few attacks for the beast wave. Ansel nodded in understanding, looking like he had already expected it. It would work well for the bears. The attack is too lethal not to, Killian explained further. A smile passed his lips. Thank you for duelling with me. Ansel wiped the sweat from his brow and grinned. "I got to learn a lot from it. With this, you might even be able to stand against the Mage that Lord Arzan is fighting tomorrow." Killian paused, considering the weight of Ansel''s words. Before he could respond, one of the other guards chimed in, "Yes. You could definitely hunt Mages now, Knight Killian. Just like the Mage hunter from the stories." Another guard nodded enthusiastically, "Absolutely! You''ve got the skills, Knight Killian. Mages won''t know what hit them." Killian listened, a contemplative look on his face. The story of the Mage Hunter was one of the fairy tales that every kid would grow up to listen to in Lancephil. It was about an ordinary man who had trained his body to a level where he was able to stand against the spells of Mages. The tales would mostly be him taking on necromancers and other cursed Mages. Killian had always doubted the tale, thinking of it as a fantasy. But maybe, the Mage hunter was simply an Enforcer. As his thoughts reached there, he wondered if he would actually be able to be like a Mage hunter in the future. Lord Arzan had indeed mentioned that Enforcers could easily grow stronger and take on Mages. But he doubted he was at that level yet. For now, Killian needed time to process a few things. He soon shook his head, understanding the absurdity of his thinking. Well, I''m not taking on any Mages. Either way, Ill be going now, its my day off. Good practice today. He gave a curt nod to Ansel and Gorak. The guards stood straight in respect and waited till he moved. He excused himself from the group, a strange feeling washing over him as he walked past the palace grounds and moved towards the streets. Normally, he would be training till the evening and would have gone with Lord Arzan to the ball, but today, he had specifically taken a day off to meet his family who resided in the capital. Until he was five, hed also lived in the capital. Then, he was sent to training right after. Which was why he knew a few places even though hed changed a lot throughout the years. Not only him, but a lot of things in the streets had changed. The marketplace to a few buildings right around the corner he faintly remembered how they were before. And that gave him a bittersweet feeling. A lot of businesses had shut down from the last time he had been here and a lot of people had migrated to different places. The air also felt a bit heavy, but he ignored it and hastened his pace. His destination was a modest house in the noble district. Killian was from a house of knights, a lineage of warriors who had served the kingdom for generations. Even if they weren''t technically nobles, their standing in the society was better than commoners and one of his ancestors had even served one of the former kings directly. The memories flooded back as he saw his house in the distanceC playing with a few kids from the neighbourhood, the smell of his mother''s cooking, the thrill of his first sword fight in the backyard. As he approached the house, a wave of emotions washed over him. It was a homecoming, but it was also a farewell to a part of himself he had left behind. He stepped onto the familiar porch, his heart heavy with a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The familiar scent of polished wood and leather greeted Killian as he stepped into the house, using a spare key he always held. He immediately headed towards the living room and took in the layout. The worn armchair by the fireplace, the bookshelves overflowing with dusty tomes, the different weapons on the walls All of it was the same as when he had left. "Young master!" a familiar voice called out, breaking the spell of nostalgia. An elderly servant Nora, her face etched with lines of age and loyalty, hurried towards him, her eyes filled with a mixture of surprise and joy. I heard the door opening and knew you were back. How have you been, Nora? Been well, young master. You look healthy, the old womans voice was filled with affection as she looked at him with a familiar glint in her eyes. Killian couldnt help but nod at her. "Good that youve been well. Where is my father?" Killian asked, his voice steady despite the surge of emotions. "The master is in his study, young master," she replied, her voice trembling slightly. "He was expecting your arrival." With a nod, Killian made his way upstairs, towards his father''s office and found the door open. It was a room as austere and imposing as the man himself. The walls were adorned with weapons, and trophies from countless battles, and the air was thick with the scent of leather and old parchment. His father, a grizzled knight, sat behind a large oak desk, his gaze fixed on a stack of documents. His appearance matched his, but his hair had signs of whitening. He looked up as Killian entered, his expression a mask of indifference. "You''re back," he said, his voice as gruff as ever. "Should have come sooner." "Lord Arzan had some business to attend to," he replied. Had been busy with that. His father grunted, his gaze returning to the documents. "I heard the lousy third son is now a Mage," he muttered, his voice laced with a hint of disbelief. Is that true? Killian''s eyebrows rose in surprise, but he nodded. His father snorted. "The previous Duke, may his soul rot in the depths of hell, sold you off to serve that arrogant fool. But fate, it seems, had other plans for our house. Who knew someone as brittle as Arzan Kellius would awaken as a Mage at this age. He even dared to go against Reyk Chase. I have been hearing things about this duel these days. I hope he survives this or you miss this great chance. What chance? Killian barely stopped himself from frowning. You should be as close to Arzan as possible and make sure that your son studies under the Mage. I dont know how good he is, but with a Mage teaching your son, hed surely come out as one. Killian''s blood ran cold. "Lord Arzan?" he spat out. I''m not working as his knight so he gives tutelage to my future generations." His father''s expression remained impassive. I see that you are still naive," he said, his voice flat. "Besides, it''s the truth. The world runs on power, and magic is the only way for us mortals to achieve it. Do tell me, son, have you gotten close to this young lord? Gotten some benefits out of serving him? Killians father shook his head disapprovingly. His father cleared his throat, continuing further. You should really think about how to improve our house to rise up as nobles, rather than being a lowly knight. My father failed, I failed and even you failed but our future generations can''t. "And what if no Mage rises out of our bloodline?" Killian retorted, his voice rising. Should I forever keep chasing the power of the Mages? Being a Mage is not the only way to be a noble! Why do you think so?" His father leaned forward, his eyes glinting with a cold intensity. "You think being a knight is enough? You can swing a sword, but can you command the elements? Can you heal the sick, or act like gods on earth? No, my son, you cannot. War might be a way to rise up as a baron, but theres no guarantee you will even make it out alive and even if you did, you might not gain the title of a noble. I was in wars, but look at me, I''m still nowhere close enough to a noble. But every Mage after a point gets a noble title. Thats the only way for our house to be of something For our name to be something! You really underestimate the power of a Mage." The last sentence came in just above a whisper. His father had been telling this story for a long time, and even though it wasnt the complete truth, Killian knew that it had become his reality now. The words were like daggers, piercing through him. "I''ve seen what magic can do," Killian admitted. "But I''ve also seen the limitations. A warrior''s strength lies not just in power, but in skill, strategy, and the ability to adapt, he said, but only got a snort in return. Anger bubbled up inside of him as he thought back to what the guards had been talking about. Not only able to keep it in, he asked. What if a knight can defeat a Mage, father? Will you still think the same? His father shook his head, dismissing his argument with a wave of his hand. "You''re a fool, Killian. The world respects power, not skill. You are my son and I know you have decent skills, but please don''t have delusions. Theyre not mortals like us. Live a hundred lives, fight in all of them against Mages you still wont be able to defeat one. Those words were enough for his lightning to flare up around his arms, but Killian quickly hid his hands behind his back. He could feel the vibrations at the tip of his fingers as he clenched them into a fist. One wrong move could end up in regrets, therefore he held himself back. He looked up from his fist to see his father nonchalant to his anger that was reeking from every part of his body. Nice to see you again, father. Killian gritted the words out. You havent changed one bit and safe to say that Im not here for it. He turned around. I will be leaving by night. Our house needs to become something, Killian! A legacy of knights isn''t good for anything. You need to work for our name and ancestors. Son, listen to me, his fathers voice lowered in the end. Killian halted in his footsteps, his back towards the old man. I have been talking to houses who had Mages in their ranks and you can marry someone from the same bloodline as a Mage. It might help us produce a Mage. A sigh left Killians lips. He walked towards the door, his footsteps echoing in the silent room. As he reached for the handle, he still felt the surge of power, a flicker of lightning dancing across his fingertips. "Marriage?" Killian scoffed, a bitter taste lingering in his mouth. "I have no intention of settling down anytime soon. And next time, please don''t insult the lord I serve. Even if you are my father, I can''t tolerate that." The door slammed shut behind him, the sound echoing through the house. He needed to clear his head, to process the conversation. But when he raised his head, there was a familiar face in the hallway. Killian managed a wry smile. "He''s still the same old man, set in his ways." Nora exchanged a sympathetic look with Killian. "You know how master is. Dont take his words to heart. Killian appreciated the sentiment. "I know," he replied, his voice softening. Young master, I believe one day you will be able to defeat a Mage too. You have always been very good with the sword. He smiled. Thank you, Nora. I hope so. But I wonder if even that would be enough for my father. It will be, young master. I am sure. Killian nodded, sighing in regret that his father never knew of the existence of Enforcers. Maybe if he had, then he might not be as obsessed with Mages. His mind wandered back to his childhood, a time when dreams of becoming a Mage had filled his days. He''d been raised with that thought in mind, taught basic magical theory and fed things that were thought to help in awakening and was often talked about the future through that lens. But when it had become apparent that he lacked the fundamental three organs required to become a Mage, his world had shattered. His father, once a beacon of pride, had become a source of disappointment. The pressure to please him had been immense and he had given his all in a different path, one of the sword. But no matter what he did, his father had always looked at him like he was a failure. He suddenly felt suffocated by his own childhood and frowned. "I''m going to get something to eat," he said, breaking the silence. "And then I''m going to see mother." Nora nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. Killian turned and walked away. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Sorry got sick. Recovering and trying to work since the novel getting more and more readers these days. Honestly you all are the only good thing about my days. So I really hope I don''t disappoint you all. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 93. A brotherly reunion Kai sat on the edge of the bed of his room in the castle, his mind rising. Despite the situation with Princess Amara, he had been able to make out of the ball pretty quickly. Although the princess hadn''t tried to hold him back, he knew that she would be more than just a little interested in him from now on. In the next few weeks, she would probably get used to living without pain and would realise that whatever he had done to her had alleviated what she had assumed to be a chronic illness that was poised to take her life sooner than later. He knew the princess would be back. The effects of the Mana Heart Rupture would come back once his temporary fix ends, and her desperation would drive her back to him. It was a calculated gamble, but one he was willing to take. He didn''t mind healing her, but doing so without getting something in return would make him a saint. And he wasn''t as good of a person. Due to the oath shed made to him, she wouldnt even think of spreading information about his ability, but he would still need to prepare for other moves she might make. He had deliberately hinted that her healing would be a long and complex process and then, the request to exchange letters had come up. He would be able to keep track of her health and at the same time, he would be able to get first-hand information on the political landscape of the kingdom. The princess would be an easy target to know about the inside and with him having a way to heal her, she wouldn''t say no. It might make her see him as just another crafting noble, but he didn''t care. After his talk with Malden, he had been seeking an opportunity like this. Originally, he had decided to use scrying spells for information and hid them in a way that any other Mage wouldn''t be able to detect it. But that was a lot of work. Now, with Amara and him having a connection, it would be easy. For a second, Kai even felt like it had come easy, almost as if the world itself was conspiring in his favour. He wouldn''t complain about it though. After all, the world had thrown enough enemies and challenges on him too. Kais lips curled up in satisfaction. He pushed off the bed and straightened his cloak. His mind moved from Amara to thinking about an important event that was going to begin in a few hours. Today was the scheduled duel. Not wanting to waste any time, he donned his armour, a finely crafted set that was light yet sturdy, allowing for swift, unhindered movement. The metal plates were expertly forged, providing both protection and flexibility. Underneath his cloak, the armour hugged his frame. He shrugged down the crimson cloak that was on top of the armour with his hands, smoothing the crinkles. It wasn''t anything special, certainly not something that would be able to stand against any spells. Killian had asked him if it would be better to get better armour but he had rejected it. Armour might be good, but Reyk wasn''t at a level where he would have to care too much. The current him could easily take on someone like Actra even in his demonic form and Reyk was definitely weaker than him. From what he had gathered, the man had no experience of war or any major skirmishes. He was good with Mage duels, but it wasn''t anything special if he thought about how Archine Tower Mages barely got any combat training till later. As he stepped out of the room, he felt a surge of anticipation. Killian was waiting for him in the hallway, his expression neutral as usual. "How did it go?" Kai asked, knowing hed gone to meet his family the previous day. With your family? he clarified, noticing how Killian seemed to not reply instantly. It was great, Killians reply came short. Kai nodded, a wry smile tugging at his lips. The hesitation was clear in his voice but Kai knew it was not his place to question his things with his family. Killian was already a man with very few words, and questioning about his private life was none of his business to do. If he wanted to talk about it, Kai would lend his ear, but he would wait for that moment. His eyes moved towards Killians hand, which enveloped a parchment. Whats that? Kai asked immediately. This ones for you, Lord Arzan. The guard gave it to me. I didnt open it. He handed it over to Kai, who took the letter, curiosity piqued. He opened the letter, half-expecting a message from Reyk delaying the duel or maybe one from the prince asking him to change his decision. S~ea??h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Instead, the name at the bottom sent his heart racing, as if struck by thunder. It wasn''t sent by anyone Kai knew personally, but it was a person who was a close part of Arzan''s childhood. The letter was sent by his second brother, Edrian Kellius. Not a lot was written in the letter, but the brevity of it was unnerving. Essentially, his supposed brother had asked him to meet him since both of them were in the capital. There was even a line where he said that he would be sad if Arzan didn''t fulfil his request. The tone was respectful yet casual and if there was a hidden meaning behind the letter, he didn''t find it. "Killian," Kai called out. Did the messenger say anything else? What did he look like? Was there anything else?" Killian shook his head. I don''t know, Lord Arzan. The letter was given to the castle guards. I don''t know what the messenger looked like. Why? Who''s it from?" "It''s from my second brother, Edrian," Kai said, his voice edged with disbelief. Killian raised an eyebrow. "That''s surprising. Why? Kai asked back. Lord Edrian never seemed close to you. After he lost the succession, he left the house on his own. Your father even tried to give him a territory similar to you before his death, but he rejected it, choosing to travel. I had no idea he was in the capital." Kai nodded thoughtfully, tucking the letter away. "Neither did I." Killian shifted in his feet. Either way, we should get going now, Lord Arzan. Kai agreed with that and they both started to move towards the carriages that waited for them. As they sat in the carriage, Kai''s thoughts churned. Even the rhythmic clatter of wheels on cobblestone did little to soothe his racing mind. He had been preparing to finish the duel and leave the capital to check on his territory before anything else popped up, but it seemed like fate had it for him. His second brother, Edrian, had always been a mystery. Arzan''s diary held few entries about him, their relationship marked by a cold indifference. Even Lucian was talked more about than Edrian, even if that was more because of his hatred for him. He didn''t seem to hate Edrian at least, but there was no love between them. That made the meeting even stranger. Their paths had diverged long ago, and he doubted Edrian had any interest in his territory or he wouldn''t have rejected the offer to get one of his own. He also didn''t agree with the thought that he might just want to meet him. They weren''t that close, brothers or not. The letter also didnt specify a meeting place or time. How was he supposed to meet Edrian? The uncertainty gnawed at him, intertwining with the looming duel. As they approached the arena, Kai took a deep breath, trying to focus. He had to put his thoughts about Edrian aside, at least for now. The duel awaited, and he needed a clear mind to face what was coming. The arena loomed before them, a colossal structure of stone and steel that seemed to dwarf everything around it. It was the same arena he had seen when he first entered the kingdom grounds, but this time even the air felt different. A crowd had gathered, nobles, workers, commoners and people of different districts. A sense of bubbling excitement filled the place as their carriage parked right next to the other noble ones. Kai muttered to himself, observing the crowd. "Seems like there''s a good mix of nobles and commoners." Killian nodded. "Commoners are allowed entry cheaply. It''s great entertainment, and Reyk is famous. It''s already big news across the city." He nodded, his focus shifting to the task ahead. Reyk had probably invited most of the big nobles that were free and he might even see the prince there, if only because he would have liked to see Kai getting beaten. Unfortunately for him, that wasn''t going to happen. As he walked out of the carriage, a guard moved towards him, guiding him to a room which was a waiting area. This way, Lord Arzan, the man said, his voice rough as sandpaper. They walked through a side passage as the guard explained, "The duel will begin in half an hour. Youre expected to leave the waiting room whenever youre ready." Kai followed along without saying another word and kept nodding at the explanation of the guard. It seemed like they were quite nervous since a lot of nobles were there and he couldn''t help but smile when the guard told him that healers were present for any injuries and he didn''t have to worry about losing his life. He was barely able to stop himself from retorting to that knowing that the guard was just doing his work. They arrived in the waiting room, a spacious area with an open window offering a full view of the arena. Stairs led down to the arena ground, and Kai could see the crowd gathering. He took a seat, the weight of the impending duel settling over him. Fighting before thousands was a daunting prospect. But still, it was nothing he couldnt handle. He had participated in duels in his previous life, showing his strength and where he stood as a Mage on different occasions. Even if the duels weren''t in open groups like this, they were far more brutal. "Are you nervous?" Killian asked, breaking the silence. Kai shook his head. "I would never be nervous about something like this. But I do feel a bit sorry for Reyk. He''s going to be pretty humiliated by the end of it." Killian opened his mouth to respond, but a sudden burst of clapping interrupted him. Both men turned to see a figure standing in the doorway. For a second, he was simply confused as to who he was, but Killian spoke before he could make a major mistake. Lord Edrian. A chill washed over Kai instantly, not expecting his brother to pop up in the arena when he had gotten the letter less than an hour ago. Edrian Kellius stood there, a commanding presence and now that Kai took a closer look, he did look a bit like Arzan. He was tall, with a lean, muscular build. His blond hair was neatly tied back, revealing sharp, aristocratic features. Emerald green eyes, sharp as daggers, scanned the room before landing on Kai. A slow, predatory smile curved his lips and he wore a green cloak which had elven patterns on it. "Yes, that''s how a Kellius should talk," Edrian said, a smile playing on his lips. "It seems your time off has helped in more ways than one, little brother." Kai froze, his mind racing. What was he supposed to say? The sight of Edrian here, now, added another layer to the already complex situation. Who knew the man would summon himself to the waiting room? But again, the letter was a warning. Kai held his ground. His lips curled up to a smile, not giving away his anxiety. He stood up slowly from where he was, tall and straight, looking directly into the pair of emerald eyes. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 94. Fiery duel A cold sweat prickled at Kais nape. Hed been living a lie as Azan ever since he got here, and even if he hadnt done the best job at it, he knew itd worked to an extent. One of the few reasons it had worked well was that Kai hadn''t met anyone from Arzans family. The closest thing hed to deal with when it came to people who knew Arzan was Killian the man who was a Knight and didnt pay enough heed to things that didnt concern him majorly. He had only seen Arzan from a distance and hadn''t been close to him. On the other hand, even if Arzan and Edrian hadnt been close like Killian mentioned, it was clear as daylight that Edrian knew Arzan better than anyone else he had met till now. They were brothers after all. Kai stared back into the emerald eyes boring into him. The man''s stare was intense as if he was looking into his soul rather than his face. He ignored the uncomfortable feeling prickling at his skin. A smile crept across his lips as he finally spoke. I didn''t expect to see you so soon after receiving the letter, he managed to talk in an unwavering tone. Sar?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Edrians lips curved into a knowing smirk. I wanted to meet you after the duel, but it was too interesting for me to ignore it and since I was here already, I decided to come meet you. It seems youve grown quite well in the time I haven''t seen you, enough to tangle with a counts son." Kai kept his composure, showing no changes on his face. It was actually him who provoked me. Edrian chuckled, a low, alarming sound. "And you responded as a Kellius should. But remember, we are of a Dukes lineage. Our strength lies not just in our blades, but in our minds. We choose our battles carefully. If our ancestors hadn''t picked their battles, we both wouldn''t be standing here today. His words made Kai lose for words. Nodding slowly, Kai forced a calm exterior. "I can handle the beast wave," he said steadily, finally understanding what Edrian was talking about. The latters eyes narrowed. "Even without the kingdoms backing?" His voice was laced with disbelief. "Word of your little rejection has spread like wildfire, you know. I never thought Id see the day when youd challenge a prince. Many people have been spreading your words and although they seem to exaggerate it, you going against a prince is still true, right?" Kai shrugged, a nonchalant mask slipping into place. It is true. I didn''t wish for it, but I have gotten over the habit of letting people trample over me." Edrian nodded, a flicker of something dangerous passing through his eyes. Kai couldnt hold on to what exactly was going through his mind, but the next few words that flew from his lips gave him all the answers he needed. "It seems so. But its not the beast wave or the prince Im worried about. Its our older brother, Lucian." Did you come here to do your bidding? Kai asked point-blank, getting tired of the conversation. The emotions that ran through Edrians facial expressions shut down like a silent snow, cold and something unfamiliar. A scowl etched on his face. The day circumstances forced me to work for Lucian, I will slice my own neck. He frowned, hatred flickering through his eyes. I know that our relationship hasnt been the best, but I came here as a brother, though a half-brother, and you havent tried to plunge a knife through my throat or send mercenaries after me." His voice was low, a deadly calm in his tone. "You were always my favourite cause of that." Kai opened his mouth to retort, but a sharp clang cut through the air. Looking back, he saw Reyk already descending the grand staircase through the window, a cocky grin plastered on his face. "Give me a moment," Kai said to Edrian, his eyes fixed on his opponent. Edrians gaze followed Kai, a cryptic expression on his face. "Might take more than a moment," he replied, his voice low. Kai shook his head. No, it wont. With a final glance at his brother, he turned and descended into the arena. His mind raised Edrians words, the warning against his brother and questions on what it could be about came back in waves but he didnt have time to think too deeply about it. Because right now, there was an urgent matter in the form of a man clad in armour standing across him with an arrogant look on his face, his head held high as he waved to the crowd. The crowd roared at that and as Kai stepped into the centre of the ring, the roars magnified, but there were also a lot of sneers and scorns among them. It seemed like Reyk had a lot of support and it wasn''t just from the nobles. Even the commoners seemed to like him and Kai saw quite a few banners among the stands containing his family''s crest. "So, you didnt run away after all," Reyk sneered, his voice carrying through the stadium and bringing Kai''s attention back to him. I was prepared to entertain the crowd with a few of the spells I have learned recently if you have acted the same way as in childhood. It seems like growing up has made you more foolish. That earned a few loud laughs from different corners of the arena. It really seemed like the crowd was patiently waiting for him to humiliate Kai. Kai returned his gaze, his expression impassive. "I dont see an opponent worth running from," he replied with a smile. The crowd went silent at that and he saw a few smirks, having not expected him to retort back. Reyk''s nose scrunched him in anger and his face went red. "Well see about that," he growled, his body tense, ready to pounce. As Kai took one step ahead, his gaze swept across the stands. A surge of adrenaline coursed through him as he spotted familiar faces. Magus Veridia, Jasper and a few other Mages sat in the highest stands that seemed to be made specifically for nobility. Even Klan and Jacks were among the spectators, their eyes locked on him. He moved his eyes around and saw Prince Eldric sitting at another stand, surrounded by the nobles he had seen at the ball. A smirk played on his lips as he talked to the nobles around him, clearly anticipating the battle. He even saw Leopold there and when their eyes met, he waved at him. It seemed to be the truth that Reyk had gone around inviting nobles. They expected a good show and although it wouldn''t go as they expected, Kai was going to give them one. A referee stepped forward, raising his hand to quiet the murmuring crowd, his voice echoed through the stadium when he spoke. "Attention! Before we begin, let me remind you of the rules. No killing. No leaving the arena boundaries. Any use of forbidden techniques will result in immediate disqualification. You can use weapons and artefacts." The crowd murmurs in acknowledgement as the referee continues, "The duel will conclude when one side is unable to continue or surrender. Now, to determine who makes the first move, we will have a coin toss." Before the referee could produce a coin, Reyk stepped forward, his voice dripping with arrogance. "No need for that. Let him go first." Kai returned the smile, a cold glint in his eyes. He knew the arrogant guy would regret those words, but he wasn''t going to say no to it. Since that''s the case, begin! The referee stepped outside the main ring and the duel finally began. Without hesitation, Kai lifted his hand and flickered his wrist. He wanted to end the duel as soon as it began. A spell structure formed on his hands instantly and he saw a trace of surprise in Reyk''s eyes at the speed of it. But he gave him no time to move. An arrow, tipped with a fiery essence, materialised in his hand. With lightning-fast speed, he released the arrow. The projectile, a streak of crimson light, shot towards Reyk, leaving a trail of burning air when it did. Reyk''s eyes widened in disbelief. Kai made sure that the arrow drew faster than anything he had anticipated. But the man had brought things to supplement his strength. With a flick of his wrist, a ring on his finger emitted a blinding light, forming a translucent shield around him. The arrow impacted the shield, sending ripples across its surface. But the shield held, absorbing the impact. Kai''s eyebrows rose slightly. It seemed like Reyk had put in a good amount of money on that ring, but it wasn''t anything that would make him falter. He unleashed more arrows in a matter of seconds. Each arrow struck the same spot on the shield, weakening it with every hit as Reyk got pushed back. The crowd roared as the shield, which Reyk thought was a symbol of invincibility, began to crack under the relentless assault. Reyk yelled in frustration as his shield shattered, breaking into pieces around him. He took a few steps back and looked at his hands in shock. Without hesitation, he unleashed his counterattack. A red spell structure bloomed on his hands, taking a few seconds more than Kai. [Blazing Whip]! He yelled, pushing forth his intent. Long, fiery whips of fire erupted from his hands, lashing out at Kai. But with practised agility, Kai moved around the fiery tendrils, avoiding the attacks and finally halting completely unharmed. "Impressive little tricks," Kai taunted, his voice carrying over the roar of the crowd. "But not enough to win this." With a dramatic flourish, Kai raised his hands and put his hand on the ground as a spell structure formed. He muttered an inaudible chant as streaks of mana moved. The ground beneath them erupted the next second. Chunks of scorched earth rose, forming a colossal, fiery hand that reached for the sky. Reyk, recognizing the danger, leapt backwards, his eyes wide with shock. By how pale his face looked, he had recognised that Kai''s spells were far more powerful than this. Both of them had fire affinities and although he was using common second-circle spells, their power and speed far surpassed his. As Reyk landed, he retaliated with a barrage of flame lances, aiming to destroy the molten earthen construct. The spell seemed to be one of his main ones as he was far more quick with the casting. But Kai had anticipated his move. The fiery hand, impervious to Reyk''s attacks, broke down under the lances and rained down a torrent of flames, engulfing his opponent in a fiery inferno. Desperate, Reyk erected a wall of flame to protect himself, but Kai''s onslaught was relentless. The two walls of fire collided, creating a blinding explosion of light and heat. The crowd gasped and it all went silent. Kai moved back to dodge the explosion, but his opponent wasn''t so lucky. Without the shield''s protection, Reyk was a sitting duck in a fiery inferno. Panic etched itself onto his face as the flames licked at his exposed skin, his armour not being able to protect him completely. Kai moved with predatory grace, closing the distance between them. "Do you yield?" Kai asked, his voice cutting through the roar of the flames. Reyk''s eyes, filled with terror, refused to meet Kai''s gaze. "Never," he spat, his voice barely audible over the crackling fire. Pride, a stubborn and foolish companion, kept him from admitting defeat. His desperation fueled another spell, but his trembling hands betrayed his fear and nervousness. Kai shook his head, a mixture of pity and contempt in his eyes. "You would live longer if you knew when to quit." With a swift motion, he launched a powerful kick, connecting with Reyk''s midsection. The force of the blow sent Reyk flying backwards, disrupting the concentration needed to maintain his spell. The spell collapsed, leaving him vulnerable. A barrage of flaming arrows followed, striking Reyk''s shoulders and thighs through the scorched armour. Pain erupted through his body, his senses overwhelmed by the agony as he cried in pain. In a final move, Kai walked towards Reyk in swift steps, grabbed him by the collar and threw him against the arena wall. Reyk''s body slumped to the ground, unconscious. A heavy silence descended upon the arena. The crowd was stunned, their previous cheers replaced by a collective gasp at the scene they had just watched. It hadn''t even taken five minutes for the duel to end and the winner was a Mage they had never seen in the arena before. This was as easy as I expected, he muttered, giving one last look to Reyk. He wasn''t dead, but it would take a while for his injuries to heal. Kai''s gaze swept across the stands, momentarily locking eyes with Veridia. Her face didn''t show any emotions, but her eyes were another matter. Next to her, Jasper''s face was pale and he seemed like he wanted to drag himself to the arena grounds to check up on Reyk. Klan and Jacks looked at him in awe and before Kai could turn to look at the prince''s reaction, the referee''s voice broke the silence. And the winner is Baron Arzan Kellius! - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 95. Thorny queen Kai gave one last look at the fallen Mage, his mind already racing. Reyk was sprawled across the floor, defeated and unconscious. Blood pooled around him and from the corner of his eye, he could already see healers running towards him. His injuries were big, but they would heal with time. As for his pride, Kai wasn''t sure about that. He didn''t like Reyk, but there was no animosity between them. He could only hope that the man would take a good lesson out of this and learn to pick his fights. If not, then he would probably come face to face with an enemy who wouldn''t hold back one day and die a cold, bitter death. Kai looked at the crowd and gave another glance at them. Somehow, the ease of the victory was unsettling. He''d expected a tougher fight, at least one where he would be forced to deploy a few more spells. Hed expected Reyk to be a swifter caster, and use more counterattacks instead, the fight had been a mere formality. A cold satisfaction crept into him. This victory would echo through the capital, painting him as a fearsome Mage and rumours would spread to every corner of the capital. It was both a blessing and a curse depending on how one saw it, but for someone who wanted to change things in history itself, having a reputation was a must. If they hadn''t before, Archine Tower would undoubtedly recognise his potential now. He hadn''t done any spells that a peak second circle Mage wouldn''t be able to do, but his casting speed and techniques would surely catch attention. They would also put his strength at the third-circle level even if in their eyes, he wasn''t a third-circle Mage yet. Hopefully, that would make them hesitate before going against him. At least, he was sure that no adepts would dare to act rudely against him now. At his age, such a feat would hail him as a genius and if he had appeared out of nowhere, that would have been strange, but Arzan used to be a promising individual whose mother was a Magus. His being able to defeat Reyk like this might come across as a shock at first, but it wouldn''t be out of the ordinary if they simply dig a little into his background. At most, it would be considered as a miracle that he was able to deal with his mana blockage. Most people would equate his strength to his inheritance and he could only hope that no one would try to snoop around him, hoping to get a part of it. Even the princes would be interested in him to get him to their camps. Well, barring the first prince, whose face was now a sickly shade of pale. As Kai looked towards him, Prince Eldric looked as if he couldn''t wait to get out of the arena. Pure incomprehension was on his face. Most of the nobles in the stands shared that sentiment and only Leopold seemed to have somewhat expected this outcome, knowing that he had dealt with the necromancer. Kai made his way outside the arena. The crowd stood up like a wave when he was moving, their eyes filled with awe and reverence. He didn''t give them another glance as he climbed up the stairs. Back in the waiting room, Killian was the first to congratulate him. That was fast, he said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. Kai simply returned a smile, the weight of the victory settling on his shoulders like a heavy cloak. Congratulations. Thank you. Edrian stood by the window, his gaze fixed on the arena. He turned to face Kai, his eyes filled with a complex mix of surprise and intrigue. It was clear that he had not expected such a decisive victory. Congratulations, Edrian said, his voice low. A beat passed between them as no one spoke until his brother shook his head. I seemed to have underestimated you highly. Thank you, brother, Kai replied and gestured to Killian to start moving to leave the arena. If he could, he didn''t want to stay here for longer with Edrian. But before he could turn around, his way was stopped. Would you join me for lunch? As brothers, before we part ways. I have something to tell you. Kai hesitated. Cant it wait? Edrian shook his head. I know you won''t be in Hermil for long and trust me, it will be worth your time. It''s about Lucian and the beast wave. That made him pause. Even before, Edrian''s reaction to Lucian had been strange and as he looked into his eyes, Kai doubted that he was lying. Still, to have lunch with him would mean more chances of him accidentally giving away his identity. We won''t talk about anything else, Kai said and Edrian looked surprised for a second before he nodded. Sure, I don''t plan to reminisce about our past either. I have been learning to live in the future after all and what I''m about to tell you might help you make better decisions in your future. *** Veridia moved through the tower with the silent grace of a predator, her footsteps echoing in the grand halls. The aftermath of the duel was roaming on her mind. Kai''s performance had been nothing short of astonishing. A raw power, tempered by a tactical brilliance, had been unleashed in the arena. She had a good inkling of his abilities, but what she saw was beyond her expectations. Savant Jasper walked beside her, his face pale and drawn. The defeat of his disciple, Reyk, had shaken him to the core and even now, his fists were clenched. His eyes were filled with disbelief and astonishment. It wasn''t as if the Mage hadn''t seen shocking things in his life, but he had a good amount of trust in his disciple''s abilities and someone who had been unknown till recently had bested him and it was a one-sided battle at that. It would take a while for Jasper to accept it. And Veridia shared that feeling. As they moved, Mages passed them by, bowing to them when they took notice of them. Both Veridia and Jasper ignored them, but as they got closer to the lift, a hushed conversation entered their ears. Two adepts and a few novices stood in a circle, their eyes wide with astonishment as they talked about the details of the duel. None of them noticed Veridia and Jasper standing so close to them. Ive never seen such a duel It ended as soon as it began, one of the adepts said. Yes, Reyk never stood a chance. He looked really confident when the duel began, but a minute into it, his face was pale and his spells lacked their usual intensity. It was more like Arzan''s spells were far more powerful. I have never seen a Mage cast so fast before. I didn''t know we had such a person in our tower. Yes, I never expected someone to come out of nowhere to best Reyk. He would have lost his life if the killing was allowed. Jasper''s jaw clenched as he listened to the murmurs. He looked like he wanted to defend his disciple, to justify the defeat, but the words caught in his throat. A frown appeared on his face and he swiftly moved past the disciples who just noticed them and hurriedly bowed. Veridia sensed his turmoil. But she waited until they were inside the lift. "Heal your disciple," she said, her voice demanding as the lift moved. "Let this be a lesson for him." Jasper nodded, his voice barely a whisper. "I will speak to him. His organs weren''t damaged, so healing draughts and some other medicines would let him out of the medicinal halls soon." Veridia''s gaze sharpened. "Don''t hasten the healing process. Adept Reyk has a promising future. The longer he would stay in bed, the more he would think of his mistakes. You need to learn from this as well, Jasper. You pushed Reyk to provoke Arzan. Did you think I wouldnt find out about that?" Jasper bowed his head, a silent admission of guilt. "I made a mistake. But Arzan dared to step out of line. He had no idea how to speak, especially for a noble and I just gave a little push to Reyk to get him to learn a lesson. I had no idea it would turn like this." Veridia shook her head. "With the power he displayed today, he has earned the right to speak his mind. He warrants our attention now." With a final, withering glance at Jasper, Veridia stepped out of the lift and onto the top floor. "Do not follow me," she said, her voice cold. Jasper nodded, stiffening as the lift moved down. Veridia made her way to her office, her movements deliberate and slow. The entire top floor was reserved for her and it was the place she had lived in for decades, but as she moved through it, she couldn''t feel the peace and familiarity she would often get here. Something gnawed at the back of her mind and she knew it. Right before she was about to enter the room, she reached into her robes, pulling out a crumpled letter. It was old, the ink faded, but the words etched into the parchment held. Even if they would have been unreadable, she wouldn''t have forgotten what was written on it. After all, it was a missive from a former rival, a plea to protect her son and raise him into a formidable Mage. When she first received it, the words were boldly written on the paper. She hasnt gone along with it, thinking of it as a waste of her time, but the bloodline has managed to show itself. Anger surged through her. She crumpled the letter again, stuffing it back into her robes. A part of her wanted to burn it down into ash, but it was proof of that haughty woman begging her. As she opened the door to her office and entered, a voice took her attention. "It''s rare to see you so disturbed, Veridia," the voice said, a hint of amusement colouring the tone. Veridia turned to face the speaker, her posture stiffening. The top floor was out of bounds for everyone in the tower and only with her permission, they could come here. Otherwise, the enchantments on the walls would notify her. Yet a woman sat peacefully on the sofa in her office with a nonchalant gaze. She was a woman with pale skin, white hair and piercing blue eyes. She wasn''t particularly beautiful, her appearance withering with age, but there was a stark aura around her that was hard not to focus on. Her identity was Queen Regina, the mother of Prince Eldric and Princess Amara. And she was also the last person Veridia wanted to see at the moment. Veridia bowed, her voice filled with respect. "Your Highness, I was unaware of your presence." Regina smiled, a cold glint in her eyes. "I had to come. Interesting things are happening, and I needed answers to a few questions. Like why have you failed to remove a large thorn that could cause needless trouble." She stood up and walked around the office room and gracefully sat on Verdia''s seat behind her desk. The Magus didn''t say anything and sat opposite her. Veridia''s expression turned stony. "Are you referring to Arzan, Your Highness?" she asked, her voice steady. Regina leaned forward, her eyes narrowing. "The other thorns have been dealt with. Only he remains. And you are failing." "Things have become complicated," Veridia began, her voice low. "Actra failed, and his life was the price. And Arzan... his power is beyond what I anticipated. Dealing with an incompetent, powerless noble and someone who had grown to such power in such a short time are entirely different things. If you are here, it must mean you know what happened in the duel. Your eyes are everywhere after all." The Queen''s expression remained impassive, her eyes cold as sparks flew in between them. "It doesn''t matter. You are the strongest Mage in the kingdom. If you cannot handle a simple task, then perhaps I should lend a hand." S~ea??h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Veridia''s eyes narrowed. A bitter taste rose in her mouth, but she pushed it down. Normally, this shouldn''t even concern her, but Regina''s words were the truth. This was indeed supposed to be simple, but they wasted too much time and fate managed to play its cards. She still chose to stand her ground. "Lend a hand, Your Highness? Like you did with Actra? He was once assigned to your protection, remember? It seems he learned a few tricks there." The queen''s aura shifted, a cold fury emanating from her. Yet, her voice remained calm, almost serene. "I do not know what you imply, Veridia. I am merely a simple queen of the kingdom. But if you wish to see true power, I can offer a demonstration of those tricks you mentioned. But be warned, you might not like the consequences. So tell me, will you be able to afford it?" Veridia''s fist clenched involuntarily and whatever fight she had gathered left her. "Understood, Your Highness," she said. "I will do my best. But I don''t think we would have to worry. The beast wave should be his undoing and I doubt he''s going to get any significant aid with it." Regina nodded, her eyes glinting with menace as she looked around the office. "Let us hope so, Veridia. Otherwise, you will discover sides of me that even the King fears. You have served me well all this time and I hope you will do the same going forward. If the beast wave fails or he runs away, make sure you don''t fail." She stood up and made her way out without giving her another look. Veridia watched Reginas retreating figure, her eyes filled with a burning intensity. The threat hung in the air as she walked out of the room. Veridia followed her with her senses and only once the queen took the lift that she let out the frown she had been holding. Various thoughts passed by her mind, but she had no time to dwell on them. Alone in her office, she rose from her chair, her movements stiff and deliberate. From a hidden compartment in her desk, she pulled out a document. It was a simple-looking paper, but she personally wanted to evaluate the contents of it. It was Arzans exam paper. A wry smile crept across Veridia''s lips. Maybe in two decades, it was the first time she felt threatened. Not by power, but potential and she knew that before it could become anything big, she needed to deal with it. Let''s see if the inheritance had made you any wiser, she muttered and opened it up to begin reading. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 96. Tales of Heroes and Vipers The restaurant was called the Sapphire Hall, one of the costliest places in Hermil. It felt like luxurious confinement. Excessive in all ways, the splendour stretched towards the crystal chandeliers that cast an otherworldly glow on the room. The light that reflected on it, danced on the polished marble floors. To add to the interior, soft instrumental music filled the air. Edrian, Arzans second brother, reclined in a lavish velvet chair, a satisfied smirk on his lips. "One of my favourite places in the capital," he said, his voice carrying a hint of smugness. "You have to try the crimson beef steak. It''s a house speciality. Ah, Id recommend it to anyone whos trying here for the first time. It won''t disappoint you." Kai nodded, his attention divided between the extravagant surroundings and the information he was eager to obtain. When Edrian had offered a final meal, Kai wasnt that interested in sitting down and having a meal a good place of choice for food or not. But if it meant he would be able to obtain more information on his brother, then it was worth the risk. Information was key to anything and if Kai could get it by just having a meal, then it was an easy bargain. "Sure, I would try it," he replied, his voice flat. The truth was, that Kai cared little for the culinary delights of the upper class. Good food was always a welcome thing, but he had far more important things on his mind. Now, Im more interested in knowing what you wanted to say. Edrian raised an eyebrow. "You''re growing impatient, aren''t you?" he remarked. "The duel is over. You should enjoy the spoils of victory. I don''t know if you have tried the delicacies of life or not, but food and women are the finest of them. I won''t share the latter with you, but food tastes better with good company." Kai winced at the remark. "I don''t have much time in the capital. The beast wave is waiting and I have to prepare to meet it." A flicker of surprise crossed Edrian''s face. It seems like it''s true that you haven''t decided to hide in the capital to play the victim. Seems like you want to follow the path of your mother more than our father." Kai''s brow furrowed. "What does that mean?" Edrian leaned forward, his eyes glinting with a strange light. From one look at the man, Kai could tell that he had been waiting for that question. Your mother, Magus Valkyrie made her name as a Mage exterminating monsters. She died a hero''s death after a horrible fight and I know you don''t like hearing about her, but it immortalised her name and prestige among everyone. Archine Tower even went ahead with creating fairy tales out of that fight. He chuckled. It happened because the beast she fought sought to destroy a big part of the kingdom and as she saved everyone, she became a hero. Im not trying to be a hero, Kai replied. It''s just my duty as a lord. Edrian nodded. I know, I''m just saying it''s one of the best ways that anyone in the kingdom could solidify their name and prestige by showing off the strength they possess and saving commoners. And as you can see, Magus Valkyrie legacy lives on. In this kingdom, power might be inherited, but you need to prove yourself. And there''s no better way to prove yourself than facing the beast wave. Especially for a fledgling noble with land to protect." Before Kai could respond or even think about how to respond, a waiter came with the plates in his hand. His movements were practised as he gracefully placed the plates on the table, the sizzling meat spreading the mouth-watering aroma in the air. Kai inhaled slightly, letting his lungs fill with the taste before it hit his taste buds. Alright Before you talk, Id like to offer to try this first. Id be offended if we let it get cold because Edrian cut a piece of meat and placed it on Kais plate. This is my favourite thing in the world. Kai nodded and took a bite of the steak, the rich flavour momentarily distracting him. As his brother said, it was savoury and the more he chewed, the more flavours his tongue touched. But his mind was racing, deciphering the hidden meaning behind Edrian''s words. One thing he knew about him was that he wasn''t the type to say things straightforwardly. Instead, he liked to give clues and let the other person get to the answer like a puzzle. That''s why he knew Edrian''s words weren''t entirely about him. After all, Arzan wasnt the only new noble to reign over a land. Kai''s appetite vanished as he reached there. He leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on Edrian. Are you trying to say what I think you are? Kai asked. It was a simple question, and his suspicions were confirmed when Edrians eyes suddenly glinted with a hint of amusement. And what would that be? That Lucian is the one whos behind the beast wave? Kai paused, he didnt need a response. You know what that would mean, right? A bitter taste lingered on his tongue despite the steak he had just eaten. "It''s a likely scenario," Edrian mused aloud. Lucian, a new Duke eager to prove himself and the first prince who sought a powerful ally. Both of them seemed to be in on the game even though I don''t know if the prince had any idea or not. I hope you know about their connection? He asked. Kai nodded at that. Each of the princes, save for the first, had the backing of powerful Dukes, some of whom were related by blood. These alliances had formed naturally, bolstering their bids for power. The first prince Eldric, however, stood alone, without the support of a Dukal household at least not openly. The Kellius household, embroiled in its own succession disputes, had been unable to lend support until recently. Lucian''s ascension to Duke had changed the game. He must have struck a deal with the first prince, leveraging his newfound title. Lucians position wasnt yet secure; as a new Duke, he needed a grand gesture to solidify his standing among the nobles and commoners alike. The beast wave presented a perfect opportunity. If Lucian could lead a successful defence, he would not only gain glory but also elevate the first prince''s standing, cementing their alliance and boosting his own reputation. Veralt was in the middle of it and they had probably thought that it was the perfect opportunity to destroy the city and end Arzan for good. He doubted his brother had expected him to take on the beast wave head-on at first. Edrian continued, And the beast wave, the perfect opportunity to rise to prominence." He shrugged at his own words. "Things don''t just happen, especially in this world. Beast waves are rare. To orchestrate one, or at least manipulate it, requires careful planning and I don''t know where one would even begin with it. I might have thought of it as fate, but it''s hard to think so with that man. Lucian might be more dangerous than we think." A chilling realisation washed over Kai. He guessed that the first prince and Lucian were using the beast wave as a way to solidify their position, but orchestrating it was a wholly different thing. If he was actually capable of that, then he might be the most dangerous person in the kingdom. Had he managed to tame the brood mother? Or was it something else? And one thing I know is that, Edrian spoke up before Kai could say anything else, earning a curious glance from the latter. Our brother He would never leave his family alone. And not in a good way. I know. Kais response was curt and Edrian gave a brief nod. They didnt need any more words to discuss Lucian and a silence descended. The rest of the meal continued with occasional utensil noises and chewing the tasteful steak that Kai had taken an interest in once again. He could agree that Edrian was right about it. The steak was good enough to be Edrians favourite meal. Occasionally, they gave each other glimpses while chewing the meat. But soon, the uneasy silence came to an end when both their plates emptied. As he promised, Edrian didn''t talk about their past or childhood. That was the best for him since he had enough thoughts running in his mind. Once the meal was done, Edrian stood up, a smile gracing his lips. "It was good to reconnect, brother. You''ve grown immensely since your awakening. Im happy to see that youve." Kai returned the smile, a mask of indifference hiding the turmoil within. "Likewise," he replied. "What are your plans? Staying in the capital?" "I''m leaving the capital," Edrian announced, a hint of freedom in his voice. "For years, I chased a phantom, trying to earn Father''s approval to become a Duke, but thats out of order. Now, I want to see the world. I''m starting a merchant company." Kai raised an eyebrow. "A merchant company?" Edrian nodded. "Yes, its a business that I was always interested in. You know, money is the only thing that''s truly loyal. I trust it more than people who would plunge the knife at each others back right when they get the slightest chance. So, I will focus on my business and travel plans. Nothing extraordinary like your Heat stones, but I will start by selling spices." If you want, I can connect you to a person who delves into it. I will think about it, he replied. There was a finality to his tone and although Kai could suspect his plans about starting a business, there was no reason. Edrian wasn''t antagonistic towards him nor was he close. As he turned to leave, he paused, his gaze locking with Kai''s. "Good luck with the beast wave. I have a feeling you''ll overcome it regardless of how it goes. I have been surprised more than once by you in the last few hours." He smiled, and then his face twisted as if he was hesitant. "And if you have time, read the Tale of the Maleficent Viper." With that, he walked away. Kai was left alone, his mind racing. The Maleficent Viper? What kind of tale was that? And what did it have to do with anything? Questions swirled in his head as he stared at the empty chair where his brother had sat. *** The aftermath of the duel was a whirlwind. The city was abuzz with excitement, Arzan''s name was on every lip. Heads turned as he walked, eyes filled with awe and admiration. Even the stoic castle guards, hardened by years of service, couldn''t hide their surprise. Hours after the duel, he had already gotten over a dozen letters, a few inviting him to balls while others were from noble ladies who had been impressed by him. He ignored them, but among them, there was a letter from Amara who had only congratulated him on his victory and again, thanked him for saving her life. He hadn''t seen her in the arena, but he guessed that she had her subordinates watching it. Other than that, Kai also felt a wave of sympathy. It wasn''t for Reyk or any other one of his enemies, but for the nobles and commoners who had betted on the duel. It was sufficient to say that most of them had lost good money and from what Killian told him, a lot of bars had people cursing Reyk. Everyone expected it to be an easy duel for Reyk to win and put their bets on him, but it turned out to be their biggest loss. For Kai, it was one of his most profitable ventures. He had instructed his personal guards to wager on his victory, and he himself had placed a substantial bet, which turned fivefold when he won. Simply, the winnings were a windfall, a painless acquisition of gold. Probably the easiest bag of gold hed made so far in this world. More than a few of his guards thanked him and even Malden had struck rich, betting on him without even being told to. The man had smelled money knowing Kai''s capabilities and had gone all out on it, betting over half of his personal savings. He had invited Kai to a party to express his gratitude, but he had rejected it. He had much more serious matters to deal with after all. The first prince Eldric, his face a mask of forced cheerfulness, had finally signed the papers assigning five hundred men to Kai''s service. It was a paltry number, insufficient for the task at hand, and the prince hadnt even bothered to secure any Mages. Kai knew this was a token gesture, a way for the prince to appear helpful without truly committing resources. But he had expected this. So, when he moved to Archine Tower to find out the result of the ascensus exam, he also asked to borrow Mages for the beast wave. It seemed like Veridia had already told everyone to agree to his demands and was surprisingly cooperative. They agreed to send a dozen novice and apprentice Mages back with him. Kai was certain these were not the cream of the crop. Most likely, they were the less promising students or those from commoner backgrounds. Yet, it didnt matter. He wouldn''t have wanted stronger Mages either way since they would be harder to control. Since he wanted Mages to agree to each of his commands and trust him, he had also asked for the ones he had been familiar with. Klan and Jacks, their eyes wide with a mix of fear and shakiness, stood out from the crowd. Both of them had failed to advance to the next rank in the examination and were now standing among a small army that would be fighting a beast wave. They looked at the carriages and back at Kai, their eyes a mix of fear and nervousness. Kai offered a reassuring smile. "Good to see you two," he said. "We''ll be together for a while." Klan swallowed nervously. "We have no experience in battling beasts, Lord Arzan. I... I''ve barely fought a few beasts before on the road and they barely had any bite, he stammered. Jacks nodded in agreement. "We''ll probably die," he added bluntly. I will teach you what to do after youre there. So, dont worry. We might not make it alive, Jacks said, repeating his friend''s words. Kai grinned at that. Until you come back with your heart and limbs intact, itll be okay. We can easily heal a chopped limb or two. In the worst cases, we have prosthetic arms. And the rest of your worries, we''ll cross that bridge when we come to it. The realisation hit them like a ton of bricks. Their faces paled visibly. The other Mages standing with them looked similar and even the men he had gotten from the prince had a tense atmosphere among them. Kai knew all of them felt like they were being sent to be killed by the beast as no one expected to survive with such a low number of fighters. He hoped their thinking would change once they reached Veralt. After all, with so much preparation, he would be damned if he wasn''t able to survive the beast wave. He swore under his breath and turned to Killian. "Lets depart home," he said, a hint of anticipation in his voice. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Sarch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 97. Back to Veralt The journey back to Veralt was filled with an eerie stillness. But Kai took it as peaceful. After spending days in Hermil where he had been busy in one thing or another, the peace of the carriage was a welcome change. He knew that he would be busy once again after reaching Veralt, so this was the only break he was going to get. So, aside from working on his fourth circle which in itself was much more complicated than the third one, he simply read the books that he had managed to borrow from Archine Tower''s library. Two of them were about basic ice spells while the last one was a book written by Hendricks on monster''s biology which was an extremely interesting read. They were moving with a large contingent of men and Mages. The men borrowed from the prince were in the carriages far behind the one in which Kai travelled, but whenever theyd pass rocky roads, the continuous clang of metals could be heard even from where Kai sat. The Mages, who wore white and crimson robes, made no action to gather unnecessary attention either. Kai could only imagine how silent theyd be the entire ride, especially with their hushed murmurs. They left the guards alone and none of them dared to disturb them and by how it continued, the dynamic would extend for quite longer. Kai had tried to bridge the gap between the two factions, encouraging interaction and asking them to get to know each other, but the Mages seemed content in their world. Even Klan and Jacks only talked to him and sometimes with Killian when they would stop to rest. In their eyes, the rest of them were beneath them and they had no intention to know their comrades. Fortunately, none of them tried to go against Kais words or actions. They didnt question his commands, or his authority which he attributed to either how the duel had ended or simply the fact that they wouldnt want to antagonise the person that they would be working under. If its the first case, he was content that he participated in the duel. Either way, it was a pleasant feeling to know that these newly recruited Mages wouldnt be a problem shortly. At the moment, most of them were useless to him but he knew that he would be able to make good use of them during the beast wave. After all, no matter how weak or untrained, they were still Mages. Even a limbless Mage was helpful simply because of the ability to cast spells. As they neared Sylvan Enclave, the familiar scent of pine and earth was replaced by a subtle undercurrent of unease. It soon settled in the gut as he looked to his left and right. The roads were bustling with more and more activity as they moved towards Veralt, but they were the only ones going towards the city. Carriages, laden with belongings, moved in a steady stream, heading away from Veralt. Killian, his face filled with concern, pointed to the exodus. "Looks like most residents and merchants who could leave are leaving," he said, his voice barely a whisper. "Most of them probably know about the beast wave by now." A cold dread crept into Kai''s heart. Killian''s words made him realise that the beast wave was no longer a distant threat. It was on their doorstep. And they were the only ones standing in its way. Kai nodded grimly. "Those are the only ones with the means to escape," he said, his voice filled with a bitter undertone. "But even they won''t find peace. The roads are dangerous beasts, bandits and whatnot, and other cities won''t welcome them with open arms. They wont be able to survive easily there either, I feel bad for them, honestly. But it''s a harsh world." Killian offered a sympathetic nod. "Indeed, Lord Arzan." he agreed. As they continued their journey while discussing the same, grim topic, one of the carriage drivers called out. "We can see Veralt!" Kai''s eyes snapped open. He leaned forward, peering out of the carriage window. Mana moved through his eyes as they powered up a simple spell. [Hawk eyes] It took a few seconds, but soon, he was able to see every little detail out there. The city was a sight to behold. The once familiar spires and towers were now crowned with a flurry of construction activity for the wall. Workers scurried like ants and toiled to reinforce the walls, adding crenellations for defensive purposes. A long, serpentine line of people stretched towards the city gates, probably refugees. He looked at the sight with a smile on his face. He didn''t know when, but he had gotten attached to the city and living in Hermil just made him realise that. At the same time, a wave of responsibility washed over Kai but soon, it turned to a chill that ran down his spine as he observed the surrounding forest. His instincts screamed at him that something was amiss and he noticed sudden movement through the surroundings of the city. A beast emerged from the foliage, followed by a dozen others, their eyes glinting with feral intensity. Red fur covered their bodies alongside sharp claws and they surged forward on four legs. They resemble monkeys, just twice the size of a normal one and sharp spikes grew out of the fur, making them seem far more lethal. Kai watched them as his mind searched through the records of a beast he had read recently that lived around Vasper Forest and realised they were called Spiked Monkeys, a name he could get behind going by their appearance. Grade 2 beasts were staunch carnivores, unlike normal monkeys. They weren''t particularly strong individually, but in a group, they could be forced to reckon with. The worst part they were heading straight for the city. Their appearance wasn''t stealthy and the city soon took notice of it. Panic erupted as refugees clamoured to get inside and the work on the wall stalled. Guards tried to assure them, but they were too panicked to listen to anything. Even the workers on the wall seemed to be shouting and abandoning their duties to get inside while a few of them picked up weapons and jumped down on the ground to join the guards. It wasn''t the best response to an attack, but it was clear that it wasn''t the first time going by how quickly the guards seemed to be reacting. Kai saw archers moving on to take their position by the time the horde had reached halfway to the city. A barrage of arrows rained down on the beasts, but they pressed on, their numbers overwhelming. A few of them staggered while others were luckier, their spiked fur intercepting the arrows. Despite that, the guards on the ground stood with shields, forming a formation. Kai saw Feroy and other Enforcers jump out of the wall, leading a counterattack as the monkeys reached nearer to the gates, their swords and weapons a blur of steel. They didn''t seem to have neglected their training as the blades moved with precision, slicing through the vulnerable parts of the monkeys and drawing blood. More and more guards joined the battle as the Enforcers took the lead, holding the beast from slaughtering the refugees that hadn''t been able to get inside. But as the battle continued, a roar reverberated and a colossal figure emerged from the forest. It looked the same as a spiked monkey but was twice as big with black marks flowing through the red spiked fur. Its claws were long and its muscles bulged as it ran towards the gates. It was called a spiked gorilla, a Grade 3 beast and probably the beast leading the pack. The guards wouldnt be able to get out of the battle without getting injured or even losing their lives, not after the monstrous gorilla showed itself. Kai had no idea why it was too late to join the fray, but he was thankful for it since it gave him a few moments to think and his decision was already made. Knowing that currently they were sitting ducks, Kai turned to Killian. "I need to go," he said, his voice urgent. "The city is under attack." Killian opened his mouth to say something, but he couldnt wait. He leapt from the carriage, using a spell to balance himself. Spells of acceleration propelled him forward, making the rest of the world pass in a mere second. A gust of wind flowed around his legs, pushing him forward and he was lucky that the path ahead was straight. With the speed he ran, he couldn''t do more than run in a straight line. He drew closer to the gates and came to a halt, maintaining a safe distance and not rushing in. The refugees who were behind the defenders screamed as the spiked gorilla joined the battle, coming forward and smashing the ground with its fist. The monkeys scattered, letting it take the centre space and the faces of the guards fell. Horror gripped them and even the Enforcers didn''t look sure of the outcome of the battle now. One of the monkeys took advantage of the fear and jumped forward, its claws slashing across a guard. He fell on the ground, clutching the sides of his ears and let out a scream of anguish. He was bleeding from the ripped skin. The spiked monkey moved to finish him off, but Kai joined the battle then. Mana surged around him as streaks of it formed a spell structure. He unleashed flaming arrows, raining them down on the spiked monkey and in a matter of seconds, it lay on the ground, fur scorched and blood seeping out of its injuries. The monsters took note of him, but Kai didn''t stop there. He created another spell structure. Since reaching the third circle and making progress in it, he had gotten access to a large mana pool that was perfect for handling a group of monsters. As his spell structure came to life, something bubbled up from the ground. In the middle of the horde of monkeys, a searing wall of flames burst forth, burning away a few of the monkeys as they screeched. The smell of scorched fur filled the air as [Firewall] fully took its shape. The guards noticed it and immediately took the cue, moving and pushing the monkeys towards the wall. Flames licked their bodies and they burned. Their numbers dwindled rapidly as the guards cheered and spotted Kai. Feroy sent him a glance of happiness, but he barely had any time for greetings as the spiked gorilla moved forward. It was careful to not touch the wall as it turned its attention towards Kai. Kai recalled a line from a book as the gorilla towered over him. The creature''s roar echoed through the battlefield as Kai unleashed a torrent of fire spells, each one blazing with intense heat. Flames licked at the gorilla''s fur, but it charged forward, seemingly unfazed. Its scorched fur seemed to have no effect on it and any guard that tried to close in on it got injured by the spikes on its back. Switching tactics, Kai summoned sharp gusts of wind. If flames couldn''t do anything to it, he was going to cut it into pieces. The winds sliced through the air, striking the beast with relentless force, yet it shrugged off the attacks, its determination unwavering. One of the blades made a large gash around its arm as it screeched, but it simply gave a grim, seemingly liking the challenge Kai posed. Each step it took shook the ground, closing the distance between them. Kai''s mind raced. His spells were powerful, but this creature was relentless. He needed a new approach. Channelling his mana, he called for the familiar chill of ice magic coursing through him. He had studied them extensively in the past week and now, he could already form basic spells well. With a swift motion, streaks of mana formed a spell structure, one he was casting for the first time. But it worked, taking a second or two longer than his usual spells. [Frost Grip]. Mana surged forth, freezing the ground beneath the gorilla and creeping up its legs. Crystals of frost spread rapidly, encasing the beast in a glistening prison of ice. The gorilla''s movements slowed, its roars turning into frustrated growls as it struggled against the icy bonds. Kai took a step back, smiling and looking sideways as Feroy leapt into action. With a powerful swing of his spear, Feroy struck the immobilised beast, shattering the ice and delivering a fatal blow to its chest. For a second, Kai felt like he saw a hint of flames at the edge of the spear. The gorilla collapsed, its massive form hitting the ground with a thunderous crash. He saw its hands moving as it tried to claw at Feroy, but Kai sent a flame lance straight into its heart. It pierced through the fur, burning it up as it flailed and screamed. But the blood seeping out of it pooled more and more every second and soon, the spiked gorilla grew quiet and the battlefield grew quieter. The remaining beast, sensing their leader''s defeat screamed and began to retreat. Kai looked around, seeing the relief on the guards'' faces. The archers rained down arrows on the retreating figures and a few guards chased after them, led by Bord and Nelson. Taking the offensive, they slashed and sliced through the monkeys as more and more fell every second. Finally once the last of the monkeys had fallen, the tension in the air dissipated. A cheer erupted from the city walls. The guards, who looked exhausted and relieved, turned their gaze towards Kai. The refugees let out another cheer as more and more eyes fell on him. Everyone knew who he was since his fame had increased in recent months and as he took in the sight of their faces, their eyes looked grateful for his timely intervention. Feroy, his breath coming in ragged gasps, approached Kai. "Lord Arzan, you arrived just in time," he said, his voice filled with relief. If you haven''t, then that beast would have been hard to deal with. It''s already the second attack in the last three days. The city missed you. Kai nodded, his eyes scanning the battlefield. The bodies of the fallen monkeys littered the ground and among them, there were a few guards. "I can see that," he replied, his voice low. He turned his attention to the approaching carriages. "I brought reinforcements," he said to Feroy. "The best I could gather. There are a good amount of men and a few Mages. I told you to prepare the barracks. Get them settled in there." Feroy nodded. "They''re ready, but I don''t know how the Mages will react." Kai shook his head immediately. "They''re here to fight beasts, not have a picnic. They''ll adjust." He wished to talk more, but as he saw how haggard Feroy looked and the dark circles in his eyes, he knew the past few weeks hadn''t been easy for him. Kai wanted to know more about how everything had gone in his absence, so after telling Feroy to clear up, he moved towards the gates. The refugees and guards cleared a way for him, clapping for his victory as their eyes looked at him in reverence. As Kai stepped through the city gates, the familiar clamour of life greeted him, but his attention was immediately drawn to a figure getting out of a carriage and sprinting toward him. Francis his eyebrows raised in worry looked as though he had aged years in their short time apart. His clothes were dishevelled, and his hair stuck to his forehead with sweat. "Lord Arzan!" Francis called out, his voice cracking. He reached Kai, breathless and wide-eyed, words tumbling out in a frantic rush. You are finally back! I heard there was another attack on the city, but it seems like you already dealt with it. You came just at the right time. A few days more and the city might have been razed Kai raised a hand, stopping him mid-sentence. "Francis, take a breath," he said calmly. "Let''s get to the estate first. I want to hear everything, but we need a more secure place to talk." Francis nodded, swallowing hard as he tried to compose himself. As they moved towards the carriage, Kai couldn''t help but feel a growing sense of urgency to understand what had transpired in his absence. - Sarch* The Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 98. A dire situation As they made their way through the estate, Kai''s eyes scanned the grounds. What was once a peaceful, orderly estate was now teeming with life. People milled about, setting up makeshift tents and gathering around small fires. Most of them looked haggard with clear worry in their eyes. Francis walked beside him, his expression grim but determined. "These are the refugees from the nearby villages," Francis began, gesturing to the crowds of people. "They started coming in about a week after Your Lordship left for the capital. We tried to house them within the city, but there just werent enough homes." Kai nodded, his brow furrowing. "So they built camps around the estate." "Yes," Francis confirmed, "but it''s been difficult with so many people. We don''t know what to do with them. Some are willing to fight, and we''ve already started training them. But many refuse to take up arms." Kai''s steps slowed. "Why is that? Didn''t you explain that they could take positions in the rear or serve as archers? We also need people for scouting groups." He looked around and made eye contact with a few men who were gathering around one of the makeshift tents. As they saw how Kai was observing, they gave bows in respect. He returned their respect with a short nod. He turned his attention back to the administrator. Francis sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It''s because of the rumours, my lord. There''s talk that you fled to the capital and abandoned the city fearing the beast wave. Your reputation was improving, but fearmongers have taken advantage of the situation, spreading lies." Kai''s jaw tightened. "And they don''t believe that I went to the capital to secure reinforcements?" "Weve tried to tell them," Francis said, shaking his head. "But fear and uncertainty have taken root. They need to see you, to hear from you directly. The commoners don''t trust nobles after all, especially when there are enough cases of them abandoning their subjects." Kai looked around at the refugees, their faces weary and fearful. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his responsibility. "Then I''ll address them. We need their support, and I need to set the record straight." They continued walking, entering the hallways. Kai''s mind raced with plans to rally the people and restore their faith in him. He knew that earning their trust was crucial, not just for the upcoming battles but for the future of the city itself. But his frown deepened as he processed Francis''s words. He didnt like the rumours, but he knew they were an inevitable part of war times. Morale was a powerful force in war, and his absence had allowed doubt to fester. It was something he would need to address swiftly. Its not surprising, Kai said, his voice calm despite the frustration he felt. Morale is everything in times like these, and I havent been around. This was bound to happen. He paused, considering another facet. It was possible Lucian mightve had a hand in this, but he doubted it. From everything he had seen, his brother underestimated him heavily and wouldn''t need to do this. If he had, then just showing his face around won''t curb the rumours. Instead, different ones would arise. Now that Im back, we need to start real preparations. The beast wave looms over us, and we cant afford any more delays. Franciss face grew more grim. Weve got two months at best, and maybe only a few weeks at worst. Kai was about to respond when he caught sight of Claire approaching Amyra at her side. The latter''s face immediately lit up as she spotted him, and she broke into a wide smile. Youre finally back! she exclaimed, her voice filled with joy. Though she didnt run to hug him, the happiness in her eyes was unmistakable. Claire, too, seemed relieved, as if a heavy burden had been lifted from her shoulders. Kai allowed himself a brief smile, nodding to Amyra. Its good to see you too, Amyra, he said warmly, his tone softening. The sight of her happiness and Claires relief gave him a small but needed boost. Kai''s gaze softened as he looked at both of them. How have you both been? he asked, genuinely interested to know how they had been doing amidst the crisis. Claire dipped her head respectfully. Weve been doing well, young master, she replied, her tone calm and composed. Before Kai could ask more, Amyra burst into an excited monologue. Ive been practising with the golems just like you taught me! And I even built a huge model shell its amazing! You have to see it! Her eyes sparkled with pride as she spoke. Kai smiled, pleased by her enthusiasm. That sounds incredible, Amyra. Im really curious to see it, he said, thinking about the golem. That was one of the major components of his plan to defend the city. But can you wait just a little longer? I need to talk to Francis first. Amyras face fell into a slight pout, but she nodded. Okay, Ill wait, she said, trying to hide her disappointment. Before heading to the meeting room, Kai reached into his pouch and handed both Amyra and Claire small pieces of jewellery he had purchased during his time away. They were both beautiful necklaces made with beads that he had chanced upon in Hermil. He picked different colours for both ladies, blue and red. They weren''t anything special, but he would have felt bad if he hadn''t brought anything for them. Just like he expected, Amyras eyes widened in delight as she took the gift, her earlier sulk forgotten in an instant. Claire, however, hesitated, clasping the red necklace with both of her hands as if it were a delicate piece far too precious for her. Young master, I I cant Claire began, her voice faltering. But before she could finish, Kai gently cut her off with a nod, signalling that there was no need for words. I will meet with you both later. For that, he earned two bows in delight. The two of them then moved towards the meeting room, the lightheartedness of the moment fading as the weight of the situation pressed back down on them. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. As they reached the room, Kais demeanour shifted back to the matter at hand. He turned to Francis, his expression serious. You mentioned the situation with the refugees and morale earlier. But what about the beasts? What have the scouts reported? Franciss face darkened as he sighed heavily. Its not looking good, Lord Arzan. Weve already lost two villages in surprise attacks. The beasts are moving in faster and more aggressively than we anticipated. Kai frowned. He had expected such a situation, but it was still a hard pill to swallow. I have brought back reinforcement and have ample plans. We would strengthen our defences, but first, tell me how the villages fell and everything the scouts have reported. Information would be key here and we have no more time to waste. *** Lucian stood atop the castle battlements, his figure a dark silhouette against the stormy sky. Below him, the castle grounds were teeming with activity rows of guards in polished armour stood at attention, their disciplined ranks stretching out into the distance. Amidst them, a dozen or so Mages, their robes marked with the insignia of the second and third circle, were gathered in silent concentration, readying their spells. They were the Mages in his father''s service and once he had taken over his position, they were his to command and until now, they had done well for him to put their trust in them. Footsteps echoed behind him, bringing his attention to Knight Garrik Daven who saluted Lucian with a crisp motion. He turned around from the rows of men and Mages to stare at Garrik. He was an old man with a face weathered with countless experiences; a scar cutting across his left cheek and a faint burn mark near his jawline thatd scare whoever came across him for the first time. He had gotten the injuries fighting a Grade 3 beast called white salamander. The man had won against the beast somehow in the end and had kept the marks as a lesson and respect for his opponent. Lucian knew he wasn''t the best fighter in his ranks, especially with his age, but he was loyal and had a knack for surviving tough battles. We have all the contingents ready, my lord. The Mages are raring to go, and we have a good number of third-circle casters. Prince Eldric had sent a letter saying he would send more if needed. The beasts wont even reach the castle gates. Lucians gaze swept over the assembled forces, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. Good, he said, his voice steady and calm. Then, turning to Garrik, he added, Double the men. Garrik blinked, taken aback. My lord, most of our forces are already here. Weve brought every available soldier. Even if we ask the prince for more, doubling them would take a lot. Lucians smile widened, his eyes gleaming with calculated intent. I need more, he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. The beasts wont be easy opponents. Even if our victory is ensured, we must enlist common folk as well. Let them believe its a desperate fight so when we win, theyll think they played a part in it. If we just go and defeat the beast without the commoners seeing their horror, they wouldnt respect me as much. Garrik hesitated, clearly uncertain about involving civilians. Training men wasn''t easy and untrained ones in a battle could lead to more than one type of problem. But he had served Lucian for a long time and knew that going against him was a good way for him to lose his life. Hence, his expression turned to determination despite the worries in his heart. As you command, my lord, he said, bowing and waiting for more instructions. Lucians eyes narrowed. When do we begin the march? Garrik straightened, his tone clipped and professional. Our scouts report that theyre taking their time, my lord. It seems Lord Arzan has just arrived in the city. The reports of him running away to Hermil are false and it seems like he really wants to take down the beast. Lucian threw his head back and laughed a dark, mirthless sound. It was eerie to the ears but Lucian was always like that. Let him try, he said, a cruel smile stretching across his face. When hes destroyed, when he lies dead, my efforts to vanquish the beasts will shine all the brighter. Ill give everyone in this kingdom a good show over the grave of my little brother. Garrik, though momentarily chilled by the cold malice in Lucians words, bowed deeply. He knew his lord had no love for his brothers or anyone for that matter, but in his opinion, a lord only needed ambition and Lucian had more than enough of that. Lucian gazed out over his forces once again after dismissing Garrik. The stage was set, the players in place, and soon, the spectacle would begin. He would emerge victorious, his reputation as the kingdoms saviour etched in blood and glory. Arzans defiance would be nothing more than a footnote in history a tragic tale that only served to elevate Lucians triumph. Lucian smiled to himself. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Also, please check out Black Market litrpg. The author of it helped me tremendously before. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 99. Speech to band together Kai sat in the room, feeling the thick tension in the air. They waited for Killian to arrive before beginning and as soon as the man appeared on the door after settling the others, the meeting started. Francis, his expression gloomy, launched into the report. As I mentioned before, the beasts have become relentless," Francis said, his fingers drumming on the table. Our scouts report massing in the heart of Vasper Forest. We are doing our best to scale them and get information about their types and abilities, but it''s not been easy. Most of them are in big groups of a few dozen and seem to be biding their time before the eventual wave. A few species have also been moving on their own, aggressively attacking closer to the forest and even Veralt. Spiked monkeys you dealt with on the gate are a part of those species. He took out a few parchments and slid them towards Kai and Killian. They were the reports given by the scouts on the type of beast they had encountered and the ones moving on their own. He noticed quite a few Grade 1 and Grade 2 species and there were a few new names in them. It seemed like the brood mother had managed to recruit more species in the time he had been away. Kais mind raced, piecing together the information. The patterns weren''t anything common, but he had seen a few instances of individual attacks before the beast wave in the records he had read. It can be that the beasts are scouting up ahead to probe our strength, test the strength of the villages and Veralt, Kai said, his voice steady. It can also be a few species getting impatient and moving on their own, leading to early assaults. I don''t take the beast wave for intelligent creatures, so it should be the latter. How did the two villages fall? Francis frowned, his expression darkening. The assault happened as soon as you left for Hermil. It was a decent group of kobolds, Grade 2 beasts. They attacked two villages on the fringes at the same time, Hagmoms Keep and Averous Village. Kai frowned at those names. He knew the hunters of those villages were working in the scouts and the necromancer attack had happened in the former. It seemed like the village was unlucky with troubles. We have already informed the heads of the village and a lot of people managed to run away, but more than enough died to the beasts. We sent a team led by Feroy later on to deal with the kobolds, but other places have been attacked too. Most of the villages in our territory are abandoned now and we have a great number of refugees due to that. What happened to the hunters and capable men from those villages? We got them into the scouting team as instructed and Gareth had been moving with them since the forest had been growing more dangerous by the day. They have stood well and are extremely helpful to gain information on the beast. Kai nodded with a smile. The scouting team getting more members was a welcome thing to happen amidst the gloomy news. They would need to think about rebuilding those villages once the wave was dealt with, but that was a problem for later. Killian looked at Kai, looking as if he had something on his mind. Getting the gesture from him to speak, the knight began. Lord Arzan, do you really think the beasts aren''t intelligent and are acting impatiently and instinctively? What if they are and this is all a plan from the brood mother? I did consider that, Kai said, looking over at him and then at the parchments. But a Grade 6 monster is seldom intelligent enough as a human. Theyre not mindless, but theyre not masterminds either. Their intelligence might be akin to that of a child, no more than five years old. The other beast would be controlled by it, but I doubt the ability of the brood mother to strategise. Francis nodded in agreement. The scouts'' report does match that. If the brood mother was that intelligent, I doubt the scouts would be able to move around like this. True, Killian replied. Then, are we planning to hold off the beast wave as Veralt is a centre? It would be easier to give up the villages and prepare to defend a single city. Yes, Kai said, knowing that they have no other way. Their forces weren''t big enough to protect the villages and even if they were important for the region, they had no defences to deal with a beast wave. Veralt with its walls was the only place which might be able to stand against them. We will be fighting back from here. I don''t plan to just deep defend and have plans for counterattacks for the early assaults, but before that, I want to know how the city had been holding on with the attacks? Feroy said they are increasing in frequency. Francis nodded, sighing. They are. In the last week, there had been two attacks. The walls are holding, just as Your Lordship planned. The construction is progressing well, and Feroy and the other Enforcers have been at the forefront, dealing with any beasts that breach our defences. Theyve been holding the line, but now that youre here, Im sure their morale will improve. Deaths have thankfully been low due to the archers seeing the beast approaching, but we have opened gates without verification to a lot of the refugees due to the attacks, so we would need to deal with any brigands that might pop up. I will make sure the guards are keeping an eye out even inside the city, Killian said, getting a smile from Francis. Kai wanted to move the conversation to the defence and counter-attacking strategies he had planned. But before he could speak, Francis leaned forward, his tone curious. What about the capital? Did you manage to secure reinforcements, Lord Arzan? Weve already settled in the alchemist and the blacksmith you sent ahead, though there was a bit of a stir when a minotaur stepped out of one of the carriages. Some of the guards thought it was an enemy. Kai couldnt help but chuckle at the image of the bewildered guards at the sight of Balen moving in. He was glad that no accidents had happened due to that. The capital was... eventful, he replied. I secured some reinforcements, though not as many as Id hoped. The first prince sent five hundred men, which is less than ideal, but its something. He didnt bother with Mages, though I didnt expect him to. I took matters into my own hands and negotiated with the Archine Tower directly. Theyve agreed to send a dozen novice and apprentice Mages. Theyre likely not the best, probably commoners or those who arent well-regarded, but its better than nothing. Also, they gave me a clean chit with the murder of Actra, but I did tell you about it in my letters. Francis nodded. You did. That''s great news, but His words trailed off as he frowned, clearly not reassured by Kai''s early words. The reinforcements not be enough to hold off a full-scale assault. sea??h th n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai nodded, acknowledging the concern but remaining confident. Five hundred more will be coming from Duke Blackwoods forces. Well also need to start recruiting again, but not just anyone this time. We need Enforcers if we plan to stand any chance against the beasts. Francis seemed puzzled for a moment. Didnt we already check everyone in Veralt? At least those that willingly came forward to join the guards. Kai shook his head, clarifying, Not just from Veralt. We didnt check the other villages thoroughly last time. Now that more refugees are pouring in, we need to search every corner of our territory. We need every capable hand we can find, especially those who can be trained as Enforcers. There''s not enough time truly to make them into anything proper, but we don''t have an option to complain. Seeing the determination in Kais eyes, Francis nodded in agreement. Youre right. We cant afford to miss any opportunities. For the next hour or so, they discussed more on the assaults, the nature of the beast and counter strategies Kai had prepared in his time in the capital. Francis had an idea of the mana cannons, but they would only come as their trump card in the eventual battle. Before that, he had a few ideas and after discussing them with his trusted advisor and knight, Kai decided to implement them as soon as possible. Once the meeting was done, he stood up. We need to head to the public square. My arrival will spread, but its better if Im seen in the heart of the city. I guess its time for me to make a speech and rally the people so that there wont be any hesitation when we need their help. Francis quickly agreed, and the three of them moved out, heading to the carriage that would take them to the square. It was a short, quick and silent ride everyone in their own thoughts. Throughout the ride, Kai thought about what to say. He wasn''t one for speeches, but it was the best to get the fearmongers out of the job. *** They arrived. Kai took in the sight before him a sea of people, some living in makeshift tents around the square, their faces marked by a mix of desperation and tiredness. Francis had told him that they had been keeping community kitchens alive, but it was hard to give out food more than one time a day since the population of the city had increased by a lot. Kai stepped out of the carriage, the weight of the crowd''s eyes pressing on him. He waited for the crowd to gather around. The murmurs and whispers that spread around settled into a heavy silence. Then he raised his voice, strong and clear. Citizens of Veralt, and those who have sought refuge here from the villages, he began, his tone carrying the authority of a leader but with a certain amount of warmth in it. I know there are rumours whispers that Ive abandoned you in this time of crisis. But as you can see, I haven''t run away, nor will I ever turn my back on anyone who considers me their lord. The crowd shifted, a mix of doubt and hope rippling through them. Kai continued, his voice unwavering. Veralt faces the threat of a beast wave, a danger that looms closer every day. Ive returned from the capital with reinforcements, not only to fight these beasts but to stand with you, shoulder to shoulder, when the time comes. When the beasts arrive, Ill be on the walls, with all of you, ready to defend our city to the last breath. A murmur of approval began to spread as the people started to believe in his words. Kai looked around, catching the eyes of the people. A grizzled old man with deep-set wrinkles furrowing his brow looked up at him, his expression a hardened mask of scepticism, yet his eyes carried a flicker of hope as if daring to believe in the impossible. He continued sweeping his gaze over the crowd as he spoke with renewed intensity. Were starting recruitment for special guards fighters who will stand at the front lines. I wont force anyone to fight; the decision is yours. But remember this: if the beasts breach our walls, none of us will be spared. We all have a stake in this fight. He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing. Even if you choose not to fight, there are many ways you can help. From constructing walls to building barracks, from scouting to aiding in logistics theres a role for everyone. Our survival depends on us coming together, each contributing in whatever way we can. Whoever helps would be fed at least two times a day. In the last part of his words, discussion seems to erupt. They have been going around the community kitchens, but getting fed once was barely enough and no refugee had a lot of coins on them. Some spoke with eyes while others whispered among themselves. Kai saw a teenage boy, barely old enough to wield a weapon, standing with a mixture of pride and fear in his face. He nodded his head fiercely at Kai as if he had made a decision. That almost made him smile. A voice broke through the crowd, sharp with fear and doubt. But what if, despite everything, we still die? These beasts are lethal. Theyve already taken so many lives. I ran away from my village before they could arrive, but I heard about a few who stayed behind and were killed brutally. The question hung in the air, the weight of it pressing on everyone. Kai met the man''s eyes, his expression firm yet understanding. Death is a reality of mortal life, he began, his voice steady. But Ill tell you this it wont come to that while Im here. I know the odds are grim, but ask yourself this; do you want to die waiting for a beast to tear you apart, or do you want to face it head-on, with a fair chance of survival? The crowd was silent, the mans fear was reflected in many of their faces. But Kais words carried a conviction that cut through the dread. Im not here to promise you immortality. Im here to give you a fighting chance. I dont know who among you will stand with me, but I do know this Im not running away. This is my responsibility and conviction as your lord, but no man could do things alone. The tension in the square cracked, replaced by a growing wave of resolve as he repeated his stance. I will join you. My legs and arms work well enough for me to hold a spear. Yes! I will join too. I don''t want to let the beast come near my family. Someone in the crowd shouted in agreement, and then another. As if making a chain, more people joined them as the thick tension began to dissipate. He could still see faces who looked like they weren''t sure, but more and more people seemed ready to help out in the defence. That was more than enough. He wasn''t sure about the speech, but it seemed like he had done its job. Kai glanced at Francis, leaning in to whisper as the crowds voices echoed around them. With me at the forefront of the defences, morale will rise. We just need to keep it up. Francis nodded, his face set with the same resolve. Ill do my best. We have to, Kai replied, his gaze sweeping over the faces of the people who had placed their trust in him. Because if we dont, no one will survive. Also, I need you to send out a letter to someone. Who? Francis tilted his head. Have you heard of barbarians? I heard they are warriors that are losing their honour for banditry. I have an offer for them to gain it back, he said, thinking back to the faces he had met along his journey to Hermil. He wondered how they would react to seeing him so soon. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! By the way sorry for delay. Working on finishing volume 2 and plotting out volume 3. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 100. Busy day Kais steady heartbeat continued to thrum in his ear as he felt a pang of nervousness rising in his throat. He was doing something hed planned for weeks enchanting the wall. His hands traced complex sigils in the air. As he did, faint arcs of energya glowing pulsefollowed his movements. He knew that if he placed his hand on the wall, he could feel the Atheum stones embedded within them hum with vitality. Below, the construction continued, the workers glancing up at him occasionally and whispering among themselves. Since beasts periodically attacked the walls, he reckoned that it was important to finish doing enchantments. When he was in Hermil, he had spent nights studying the perfect seals for this very moment. Now, every stroke of his hand fortified the citys defence, making the walls more than just a physical barrier. The seals he was working with were called Reinforcement seals. They weren''t high-level ones since he wasn''t confident in inscribing them perfectly and they would take way longer to do, but they would be able to protect the walls from most magical attacks. As he had instructed, the Mason made cavities in the walls and filled them with Atheum from the mines. He simply had to put down the seals and connect them to the stones for them to start working. Kai thought to himself as he finished one more seal. He took a step back to inspect what hed done, a faint frown crossing his face. The seals were strong and drawn well, but he knew their limits. Two months. That was how long the Atheum stones would last before they would need to be replaced a task that wasnt as simple as it sounded. Still, two months was more than enough time. The walls would stand firm against any elemental attacks the beasts might unleash, the magical reinforcement ensuring that no matter what, the citys defences wouldnt crumble easily. There were still a lot of different ways the beast might be able to break the walls, but he was on limited time and resources. He moved along the wooden planks made to work on the walls and continued to etch more seals. Each one needed a careful balance of power that would ensure the mana flowed correctly. Unfortunately, the channels he created were still somewhat crude, causing a slight loss of energy. Mainly because the walls weren''t made of mana-conductive material. It was a transference loss he hadnt quite been able to eliminate, and each time he laid a new seal, he could feel the faint bleed of power, like a slow leak from a punctured vessel. The inefficiency irked him, but with the current time constraints, it was a problem he had to live with. It would need additional enchantments to stop any sort of leakage and since the loss was minimal, it wasn''t enough to jeopardise the effectiveness of the enchantments. Stopping to correct it would mean days of extra work days they didn''t have. For now, the seals would hold, and the walls would protect the city. The morning sun had barely climbed the sky when Kai began etching the enchantments into the walls. Since then, the steady rhythm of his work carried on through the afternoon, his hands moving with steadiness as he carefully laid down each seal. Once the last of the seals was in place, Kai straightened, wiping the sweat from his brow. His gaze swept over the walls, satisfied with his work. With the enchantments complete, he made his way to Barret, who was already inspecting the stonework from his vantage point. Kai approached, his voice steady. "Its done. The enchantments will activate the moment any beast tries to climb or attack the walls." Barret squinted at the stone, his eyes searching for any visible change but finding none. He didn''t question it, though Kai could see the doubts on his face. But he quickly hid it and nodded in gratitude. Kai knew Mason and everyone else in the city knew enough about his powers to have any long-lasting doubts. "And what about the spell wards you mentioned, Lord Arzan?" Barret asked, tilting his head. Kai shook his head slightly. "Not yet. Those require more than just seals theyre full spells inscribed directly onto the stone. Theyre tricky, and won''t last more than a day or two. Ill cast ones that cover most of the wall when the time comes, but it wont hold for long." Inwardly, Kai thought of the complexity of those wards, a task he hadnt focused much on during his time in the Sorcerers Tower. There, Mages had to change wards every week or two and he recalled there was some sort of a mechanism that led them to run for so long. But he didn''t know much about them. They were far from his speciality and the ones he could do were a crude version, but those would go well with the seals, giving a lot of extra protection to the walls. With that, Kai instructed Barrett to continue overseeing the wall''s construction before heading down from the battlements. Barret gave a nod and followed his order along. The work was far from over, and his mind was already racing to the next task. Claire, who had been assisting him all morning, approached as he descended. As Francis was tied up with looking over the alchemist, the supply lines with Malden and other administrative duties of settling in the refugees, Claire was left to handle the task of his assistant. Lord Arzan, will you be taking a break for lunch? she asked, her voice tinged with concern. Kai shook his head. No time for that. I need to check in with the Balen and see how the weapons are coming along. Those are our main priorities if we wish to win this war. Without another word, he moved past her, the weight of responsibility pressing down on him like a heavy mantle. Claire walked behind him as he sighed, knowing that there was no rest for him for a long time. *** Kai made his way through the bustling corridors of the castle, the air thick with the smell of metal and burning coals. As he entered the workshop, the noise of a hammer against steel filled his ears. The space was alive with activity workers rushing about, carrying materials, and tending to the forge under the watchful eyes of Balen. Balen was in the centre, his massive hands delicately inspecting a sword that seemed to shimmer with a faint magical aura. The moment he saw Kai, his face lit up with a toothy grin, revealing his sharp yet friendly demeanour. These, he said, holding the sword up for Kai to see, turned out way more impressive than I ever imagined. Truly, theyre a sight to behold. Now, if only you could finish up with the enchantments, Im dying to see their full potential. Kai stepped closer, eyes tracing the intricate patterns carved into the blade. They weren''t seals, but a circuit that Balen had created within the blade. With an Atheum stone embedded in the centre, mana will flow through the circuit and power up the enchantments that would then run for quite a long time. Of course, he hadn''t finished enchanting them yet and he doubted he could begin right away with the mana drain he was feeling from working on the walls from the morning. These weapons were for the Enforcers and by one look, he knew that the craftsmanship was impeccablebalanced, sharp, and humming with the latent energy of the mana stone. The weapon had crossed the boundaries of being ordinary and had become an artefact. Kai cast an eye around the workshop and saw old man Jeb working diligently alongside a few others in the back. He was the castle''s blacksmith before Balen had strode in and taken charge, but the man hadn''t taken it negatively. According to what Francis told me, he was anyway looking for retirement and despite the initial apprehension that Balen''s imposing figure had caused, Jeb had quickly warmed up to him and helped him get a team of youngsters who were looking to apprentice with the blacksmith. Kai did not doubt that the gleeful nature and unmatched skill of Balen had also played a part in it, turning fear into respect, and evaporating any concerns about his race like smoke from the forge. The sharp enchantments and the basics will be done tomorrow, Kai said, his voice firm but tinged with exhaustion. My mana is pretty depleted after working on the walls, but if I have the strength, Ill try to add some elemental enchantments to the blades as well. Balens eyes lit up at that. That would be more than helpful, he said, his tail swishing behind him. I am preparing another batch of the weapons and working on the mana circuits inside of them. But, he paused, his expression growing serious, I believe we should work on the cannon first. Kais gaze followed Balens as they turned and moved toward the adjacent room. There, looming in the centre of the workshop, was the prototype of the first mana cannon in the world. The cannon was a massive structure, its barrel thick and reinforced with enchanted steel bands. Unlike dwarven cannons, it had multiple levers and a series of compartments running along its length. The design was reminiscent of a mortar, yet with a complexity that spoke to what was planned for it. The mana circuits within it pulsed faintly, awaiting the Atheum stones that would fuel its power. Kai ran a hand along the smooth, cold surface of the cannon. It was an impressive piece of work, built with precision and care. The compartments were designed to hold the Atheum stones, while the levers controlled the flow of mana, adjusting the intensity and spread of the magical discharge. This was no ordinary weapon; it was a game-changer, capable of turning the tide of battle if used correctly. Everyone who had taken one look at the blueprints of the mana cannon knew that. This is what we have so far, Balen said. Maldens materials were used up quickly, so I had to improvise with what we had. Its ready for testing, just needs the crystals and enchantments to prevent any mana leaks. Kai scanned the parts scattered around, recognizing components for more cannons. Youre working on them piece by piece? Saves time, Balen replied, adjusting a panel on the cannon. Once all the parts are ready, Ill assemble them. Kai glanced at Balen, curiosity evident in his voice. "How many will we have in the end?" Balen rubbed the back of his head, a hint of frustration in his tone. "Were stuck with just three for now. Were out of materials. The ones were using are pricey, and even with a mine for Atheum, the other mana-conductive stuff is always rare. We are lucky we were able to get the materials for the three. I know a bit about how the market behaves in Lancephil and these things get sold out quite quickly." Kai nodded, satisfied. This will do for now. Well test them tomorrow, and if they perform as expected, well mount them on the walls. As Kai turned to leave, Balen stopped him with a hand on his shoulder, curiosity etched on his broad face. What is it, Balen? Before replying, the minotaur sighed, his eyes narrowing a bit as he took a look around the room scattered with mana cannon components. Where did you learn all this, Lord Arzan? The more I work on these, the more Im amazed. Even the dwarven bastards would be envious. Kai paused, considering his answer. These questions were going to pop up more and more as his knowledge became known and the ruse of being a genius would only go so far. Still, it wasn''t the time to reveal his secrets. I cant say. I promised the one who taught me to keep their identity a secret. But keep at it, and Ill share more of what I know. Things thatll be useful to you in the future. With that, Kai gave Balen a nod of encouragement and added, If youve got the time, start prepping for the golem. Well be working on the core soon. Balens eyes lit up at the prospect, and Kai left the workshop, knowing that the defences of Veralt were in good hands. If the mana cannons worked as expected, he might just be able to slaughter the beast before they would be able to take a step inside Veralt. *** Kai entered his room after a hectic day of working. From the walls to the workshop to looking through the refugee problem, he had not gotten a single second of rest. He sank onto his bed, feeling the fatigue in every muscle. The preparations had taken their toll, but they were necessary. For a moment, he let his thoughts drift, considering the strategies they''d laid out and the weapons they were crafting. The beast wave loomed closer with each passing day, and every detail mattered. he thought to himself but soon pulled himself out of his mind. It was important to think of the beast wave, but he had been too engrossed in it. If he kept going like this, he would surely break down. Hence, he sat up. His eyes wandered around the room before falling onto a corner where green robes were placed. They weren''t any ordinary robes, but the adept ones that he had gotten from the Archine Tower when he had gone to talk about reinforcements. Apparently, he had passed with distinction and any doubts the invigilators might have had dissipated after his duel. He had thrown the robes around when he had returned from Hermil, but now that he had a moment to himself, he decided to check on them. Rising slowly, he retrieved the robes and inspected them carefully, his fingers tracing the stitches etched into the fabric. At first glance, he could see that the materials they were made up of were expensive. Arzan had quite a few high high-quality and the green robes were even better than them. But there was something else he was curious about. He closed his eyes and let his remaining mana flow through the robe. Slowly, but carefully. No strange spells, no hidden surveillance just a few protective enchantments woven into the material. It was a rare find, unique compared to the other robes he''d seen, and since he lacked clothing with such defences, he decided it was worth wearing. He dug into one of the pockets of the green robes and retrieved a ring he''d received as compensation for the troubles due to Archine Tower. The small jewellery gleamed faintly, imbued with the power to conjure a force shield. It was a nice artefact that could hold off a few second circle spells. As he placed it on his fingers and pushed his mana into it, a small force shield appeared in front of him. Simple yet effective, another valuable asset in the coming battle. sea??h th n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Satisfied, he decided to keep it on him and placed the robe safely on the side of the room. With a final sigh, he allowed himself to lay back, thoughts of the impending conflict swirling in his mind before sleep eventually claimed him. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 101. Training shoddy mages As time passed, Kai felt the strain in every muscle, a weight that grew heavier each day. The beast wave was a looming storm, and the city was a ship creaking under the pressure. But it was also a hive of activity, with everyone working tirelessly to prepare for the impending beast wave. The air was thick with tension, the kind that came before a storm. Every citizen, guard, and Mage could feel it, driving them to work harder, train longer, and brace for what was coming. Kais speech had done its work and lit a fire in the hearts of the people. More and more citizens and refugees, once content to cower behind the safety of the walls, were stepping forward to join the guards. They were eager to fight, to defend their homes and families, and to take the battle to the beasts instead of hiding from them. Not all of them were willing to stand in the frontlines nor were they trained for it, but they got a good amount of archers and workers who were willing to help out in the forge and alchemical halls. It increased their productivity and although Kai believed a lot of it was because the commoners knew he hadn''t abandoned the city, the result stayed the same. It was a good sign that even surprised Killian, who had taken charge of training the recruits. He worked tirelessly, drilling the recruits, and preparing them for the brutal reality of the coming conflict. Every day, he looked increasingly weary due to the training and the preparations of the beast wave, but there was a fire in his eyes that blazed brighter and stronger as he practised the new techniques that he had managed to create. On the other hand, Francis seemed to be living on life potions as he handled the logistics of the battle and the refugees. At the same time, he was continuously in contact with Malden who was helping with the materials for the forge and alchemical halls. Francis was older than them and his body wasn''t trained for continuous work, but he pushed himself, taking away much work from Kai. Kai was extremely grateful for his subordinate but had his hands full. Along with overseeing the citys defences, making strategies and coordinating with Killian, he had to assess the refugees for more Enforcers. He had finished reinforcing the wall, but the weapons had remained. He also had to check the quality of the potions and make sure they were going to be useful in the beast wave. But there was another, equally important task that demanded his attention The Mages from Archine Tower. Kai knew they were critical to the citys defence. Their raw potential was there, but it needed to be honed and sharpened into a weapon that could turn the tide of battle. Or it would become a liability to his side when the beasts decide to rush in. That''s why, once he finished with the initial important tasks, Kai stood at the edge of the training grounds, watching as the Archine Tower Mages assembled before him. He surveyed the ragtag group of Mages who looked at him with complicated expressions. They stood awkwardly on the training grounds, their robes barely fitting, some clutching their staff like walking sticks rather than weapons of war. These were the low-level Mages of the towerbarely more than apprentices and with the beast wave approaching, they were more likely to serve as cannon fodder than actual defenders. He only knew two of them personally Jacks and Klan who looked the most comfortable out of all of them but going by what he had heard from them, they were considered above average. If this was the case, then he would be better off using them as meat shields. He had no time to sugarcoat it. If we head into the beast wave as you are now, you''re all going to die, Kai stated bluntly, his voice cutting through the murmurs and shuffling feet. I''m not saying it to insult you, but this is just the cold, hard truth. Most of you are sons and daughters of lower nobles who haven''t seen war or blood properly. Immediately, faces drained of colour. A few frowned while others looked at him straight, not daring to show any expressions. One of the Mages, a tall man with a thick, dark beard, stepped forward. He wore crimson robes, making him an apprentice. Kai quickly thought of the information he had been given about them and realised his name was Roran. A short-tempered man who was known more for his physical strength rather than his magical prowess, often using his staff as a club. Roran looked at him with his brows furrowed. Won''t you die too? You can''t seriously think you can defeat the beast wave on your own, do you? Roran''s tone was rough, laced with frustration. I''ve seen the state of things there aren''t enough men, and you''re the only adept weve got. Youre crazy if you think we can hold out against a couple of hundreds of beasts led by a brood mother. Kai met Rorans gaze, understanding the doubt behind the mans words. He couldnt blame him since his words were the truth in normal circumstances. His current forces could never stand against a beast wave and they would need a dozen adepts trained in combat to hold a chance. But Kai wasn''t one to go by books nor he ever had the chance to. With the training theyd receivedif you could even call it that these Mages were closer to common guards than battle-ready spellcasters. But they had potential, buried deep under layers of inadequate instruction and half-learned spells. If he managed to make them discover a higher force of sorcery, maybe they would have a better chance. We wont survive if we stick with the training youve had, Kai responded, his voice firm. Or, more accurately, the training you never received. You werent taught to be combat Mages. Your spell structures are shoddy, and your incantations are weak. Right now, your spells barely have the power to singe a goblin, let alone stop a beast wave. He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. But thats going to change, starting now. Im going to train you not just to survive, but to fight. If youre willing to put in the work, Ill make sure you have a fighting chance. The Mages looked at each other, uncertainty etched on their faces. Roran, however, took a deep breath and nodded, surprisingly accepting the fact that Kai was right. How do we do that? he asked, a little bit of uncertainty remaining in his voice. Kai smiled grimly. We start by tearing down everything you think you know about magic. As Kai finished speaking, another voice piped up from the crowd. It was Klan, with Jacks standing next to him, both looking a bit confused. Lord Arzan, we know you''re great and extremely talented, but our spell structures are based on the Archine Tower''s teachings. They are the best in Lancephil and cant be that bad, right? Kai''s eyes narrowed slightly as he considered their words. Are you sure about that? he asked, his tone sharp. Silence followed, the Mages glancing nervously at one another. Breaking the tension, Kai turned his attention back to Roran. You, he said, addressing the apprentice Mage. What element are you most comfortable with? Roran hesitated for a moment, then replied, Wind, Lord Arzan. Good, Kai said with a nod. Cast a second-circle wind spell at me. Ill defend against it with a first-circle one. Gasps echoed through the group, disbelief and concern written on every face. Klan looked like he wanted to protest, but Kais steady standing silenced him. Most of the Mages looked at him as if he was crazy and this time, no one bothered to hide their emotions. Do it, Kai commanded. Roran swallowed hard but complied. He began chanting the incantation and building up the spell structure, his voice wavering slightly as he channelled his mana. The casting time dragged on, sweat beading on his forehead as he finally released the spell a gust of wind that surged forward with moderate force. [Wind blast]! S~ea??h the n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai, meanwhile, had barely begun his incantation when he finished, almost effortlessly weaving his mana into a first-circle wind barrier. The spells collided in mid-air, but Kais barrier overpowered Rorans attack almost instantly. The apprentices spell was repelled, and a small but forceful blast followed, sending a shockwave that rustled their robes and caused the less experienced Mages to stagger back. Everyone stared in stunned silence, eyes wide with shock. Kai lowered his hand, the demonstration over. Thats enough, he said calmly, turning to face the group. What you just saw wasnt a fluke. My methods spell structures, mana channelling, incantations, and types of spells theyre all superior to what youve been taught. This is my legacy and it''s the best in the whole world. But theres no time to teach you everything nor do I think you all are talented enough to gobble everything up before the beasts show up. He scanned their faces, letting the reality of their situation sink in. So heres the plan. Youll focus on area-of-effect spells in the elements youre most comfortable with. If you can master one or two offensive and defensive spells using the structures Ill give you, thats a start. Also, your casting time needs to be under five seconds preferably two. Youre dealing with low-circle spells and in a battle, you hardly get time to react, so speed is crucial. Kai paused, his voice steady but urgent. Do this, and you might just survive the wave. Kai knew he couldnt rely on these Mages as weapons against the high-grade beasts. Their power was too insignificant, their training too inadequate. But he could use them as mob killers, a tactic as old as war itself. It wasnt glamorous, but it was effective. A group of mob-focused Mages could assist his Enforcers bringing down the numbers of beasts by a lot. He would have to rely on the mana cannon and himself for the stronger beasts, but that was something he could handle. As he looked over the strategies in his mind, Kai noticed a few murmurs of dissent among the group. Two of the Mages, pale and nervous, raised their hands and voiced their doubts. We cant learn to cast that fast, one of them said, his voice tinged with desperation. He was a fat man with a short moustache. Funny to look at, but one look at him was enough for Kai to know that he belonged as far from a battleground as possible. His name was Cansor. Next to him stood a tall Mage with dark circles under his eyes as if he hadnt properly slept for days, he was Aishter. Kai took a good look at both of them as his expressions hardened. You will, he responded firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument. Because Ill give you the necessary stimulant to push you to your limits. There was a pause, confusion spreading across their faces. Klan, always one to ask questions, spoke up. What stimulant? In three days, Kai began, his voice carrying across the training grounds. Well be launching attacks against the beasts. You will be venturing inside the forest, deeper into their territory. There will be danger, and if you cant learn the spells to keep yourself alive, youll die. Thats your stimulant. The Mages paled even further at his words, fear taking hold. Aishter stammered, But were Mages we should be used under the walls! Were too important to risk like this. Kais eyes flashed with irritation. Important? he scoffed. Youre not important if I can defeat you with one spell. Im not asking you Im giving you an order. You will follow it. The Mages fell silent, their resistance crumbling under the weight of Kais words. A few of them looked like they were going to cause a scene, but ultimately they all reluctantly accepted it. They would be dumb if they didn''t know how strong Kai was. Im not putting you in a suicide squad, Kai continued, Well be using guerrilla tactics, and youll be with people who know the forest inside and out. This isnt the tower; its a battlefield. Theres no running back, so do as I say. He took a close look at their faces, particularly at Klan and Jacks. If you feel so bad about it, remember this: if you survive, youll be the best Mages in the tower at your level. Some of you might even get stronger than the adepts. But thats only if you survive. At Kais words, a shift rippled through the group. Klan and Jacks exchanged glances, talking with brief nods. They werent the only ones several other Mages straightened up, their fear slowly giving way to determination or so Kai hoped. He was sure that a lot of them would doubt him, but that was fine with him. His demonstration would have at least given them a bit of hope over the validity of his words. They would come to terms with it once they actually see results and if nothing went wrong, that would be pretty soon. Sure, Klan said, his voice more steady than before. Jacks nodded beside him, We will follow you, Lord Arzan. The murmur of agreement spread quickly among the others, the Mages realising that they had little choice but to rise to the occasion. They couldnt afford to falter now not when their survival depended on it. Kai nodded in approval, his expression stern but satisfied. Good, he said, stretching his hands. Training begins now. Theres no time to waste. *** The sun was beginning its descent as Kai stood among his most trusted allies at the ground behind the estate. It was a separate piece of land that was a nice garden used for evening strolls, but today, they were using it for something completely different. Balen, Amyra, Francis, Orion and several others were gathered around a large worksite where the finishing touches were being made on a towering golem, nearly seven feet tall. It was made up of clay and stood imposingly in the centre. Kai approached the golem, his eyes tracing the solid construction. Impressive work, Amyra, he said with genuine admiration in his voice. Amyra had completed the golem while Kai was away with Hermil and truly the final product was way better than his expectations. Maybe, it was because she had never given up on practising, but her golem crafting skills had grown by leaps and bounds in the last few weeks. It was to the point age was able to work on an actual golem on her own. A few workers in the estate and Balen had also helped her, but the design was hers and she was also responsible for putting it together. She smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. Thank you, Lord Arzan. Balen helped a lot when he came to the city. We wouldnt have made this much progress without him. Balen, standing nearby, gave a hearty chuckle. Couldnt resist the challenge. But, Lord Arzan, do you think its safe to insert the core now? Kai nodded thoughtfully. Yes, we can''t wait any longer. If anything goes wrong, I''m here. He signalled to Orion''s alchemist team, who promptly wheeled in a reinforced container. Inside, a glowing, sizzling liquid sloshed ominously, its surface shimmering with an eerie light. This was the essence of the monstrous larvae queen, broken down and refined into a potent elixir that would power the golem. The liquid was called different terms depending on the culture and monsters used, but a general term was Golemanic Ichor. It was just one process of golem core making, but Kai had found it to be the easiest and coincidentally, Orion had experience working on the method, so it had been smoothly done. Orion carefully approached the golem, pausing to make eye contact with Kai. The liquid bubbled and hissed, a faint aroma of charred earth and ozone filling the air. As they prepared to pour it into the core housing at the golems centre, Kai smiled, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. The liquid would go into the centre of the golem and Kai would be the one to freeze it there using his mana to activate the golem. With his mana connected with the core, the golem would listen to him but only if everything happened as he planned. - Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! By the way sorry for delay. Working on finishing volume 2 and plotting out volume 3. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 102. Powering up! The process of creating the golem was anything but simple. Each step had to be done with caution so that even a slight mistake could render all their efforts useless. Kai watched Orion carefully. The Golemanic Ichor, that volatile liquid derived from the larvae queens monstrous body, was being carefully funnelled into the golems core. The man handled it with the utmost care, aware that a single misstep could spell disaster. The liquid began to flow into the channels carved within the golems clay frame, designed to conduct mana efficiently and easily. As the Ichor filled the core, Kai stood straight, his eyes fixed on the process. He knew the hardest part was still to come. The core needed to be cooled first a task that was so delicate it required him to pour his mana into it with just the right amount of control. Too little, and the crystallisation wouldnt occur properly; too much, and he could shatter the core altogether. Once the cooling was complete, he would need to channel even more of his mana into the core to power it up, breathing life into the golem. This was where many had failed before. Like in most things in magic, there were several ways to go with it. A lot of times, many Mages had come together to power up a golem, but Kai didn''t have that luxury. At the same time, using his mana to power it up would mean it would be easier to form a connection with it. A golem''s connection with its master was a vital part of golemancy. If the connection wasnt strong enough, the golem could go rogue, its power unchecked and dangerous. Kai had heard the stories golems that had turned on their creators, rampaging uncontrollably because the mana bond was too weak or improperly formed. It was a risk he couldnt afford to take. He took a deep breath, steadying himself. This was no time to rush. As the last of the Golemanic Ichor flowed into the core, Amyra glanced up at Kai, her eyes filled with anticipation. Good luck, she said, her voice carrying a mixture of hope and concern. Kai offered a reassuring nod. Ill do it well. Without wasting any more time, he stepped forward, his focus entirely on the task at hand. Lots of eyes gathered on him as he began the process. He raised his hand and decided to cast a first-circle ice spell, directing the frigid energy into the core. [Frostbite]! Kai extended his hand and let the burst of freezing air enter the golem, guiding it towards the core. His mana surged, turning icy as white streaks of light covered his palm. The liquid within hissed and crackled, its surface rapidly cooling as it began to solidify into a shining red crystal. The Ichor didn''t react badly to his spell and that was half the battle won. The process was mesmerising, but Kai couldnt afford to be distracted. As seconds passed, the core slowly solidified and soon, the crystallisation was completed. He took a look at the now-solid core as exclamations broke out behind him. But the job wasn''t done yet. He placed his hand on the golem core, feeling the raw, untamed energy thrumming beneath the surface. Taking a deep breath, he began to channel his mana into it, carefully wrapping his essence around the core, feeling out the energy channels that would power the golem. The golem''s frame quivered slightly as Kai poured more of his mana into it. He focused on establishing a connection, a mana link that would bind the golem to his will. The core pulsed with power, responding to his efforts as he directed the energy to each part of the golems body. It wasnt meant to cast spells or perform any complex magical feats, but even so, bringing it to life required every ounce of his concentration. He could feel the golem stirring as his mana coursed through it, activating the mechanisms that would allow it to move. Piece by piece, the golem started to come alive. The limbs twitched, the head lifted slightly, and the entire structure seemed to hum with energy. The golem wasn''t meant to be capable of any magical attacks. It was purely a creation of brute strength, so it was a bit easier to handle considering that this was his first golem. The strain of the process began to take its toll as Kais mana reserves dwindled, but he pushed through, channelling the last of his strength into the golem. The core shone with a gleam as both Kai and the golem got enveloped with raw mana. He pushed and pushed, straining his Mana Heart and the golem kept sucking every bit of his mana. Finally, when he could give no more, he took a step back, his breath coming in heavy gasps, but his eyes stayed on the golem. The golem stood still for a moment, its body vibrating with the mana now surging within it. Then, with a faint groan of metal and clay, it straightened up, its eyes glowing with the cold blue light of life. It was done. Amyra''s voice cut through the silence. "Did it work?" Kai closed his eyes, reaching out with his senses to feel the connection. It was faint, almost as if the thread linking him to the golem was about to snap at any moment. He narrowed his focus, channelling a thin stream of mana to strengthen the bond. The thread thickened, solidifying into something more substantial. Satisfied, Kai gave the golem a simple command. "Step forward." The golem hesitated for a heartbeat, then with a heavy, deliberate motion, it took a step. The ground beneath it trembled slightly with the weight. , Kai instructed mentally, checking if it was going to listen to mental commands. The golem obeyed, lowering itself into a crouch, its movements surprisingly smooth for something so massive. Amyra cried out in joy, rushing toward the golem with excitement. "It worked! Lord Arzan, it really worked!" Kai allowed himself a small smile as Francis and Balen approached, both of them having wide smiles on their faces. On the back, he could see Orion talking to a few of his apprentices, looking excited. This is going to work well with the guards, Francis said, nodding in approval at the golem. Yes, I hope so, Kai replied, pausing to take a breath, then turned to Balen and Orion. You both did a good job, he said, his voice steady despite the exhaustion that threatened to pull him under. Balen, I need you to craft a big axe for it. Something that can match its strength. Balen scratched his chin thoughtfully. Should I make armour for it too? Kai shook his head. No, that would just slow it down. If you really plan to make armour, make it as light as possible. Its already big enough. Well use it as a berserker let it tear through the enemy lines with brute force. Francis, ever curious, asked, What level of power does it have? At least third-rank Enforcer strength, Kai replied. It doesnt have any magical attacks, but the core from the larva queen is high-level. If the connection holds, itll learn fast. Physically, its already the strongest among us. The group fell silent, the weight of Kais words sinking in. Everyone who heard his words looked over at the towering golem. Francis smiled broadly. "That''s great news for our reinforcements." Kai nodded, satisfied with the progress, and began walking toward Amyra, who was clinging to the golem with a delighted grin. He wanted nothing more than to take a break with the golem moving, but he needed to have one conversation with her. Without a word, he mentally commanded the golem to lower itself, its massive frame bending down so that Amyra could easily climb up onto it. As she clambered up, she looked down at Kai with a gleam in her eyes. "We need to name it!" Kai raised an eyebrow, somewhat indifferent. Naming a creature wasn''t of any significance to him. "Does a name really matter?" Amyra pouted slightly. "Yes, it does! Its not just some tool; its part of our team now. I''m pretty sure Claire is going to love it too." Kai sighed, relenting. "Alright, you can name it then." Amyra beamed, clearly thrilled by the responsibility. She looked down at the golem that was massive for her size, turning to look at its arms, then at the glowing core. A contemplative expression took over her face as it scrunched in thoughts. After a moment, she smiled thoughtfully at Kai. Sentinel. I heard a folk tale of a giant warrior saving a village from a beast and his name was Sentinel. It really suits it. Sentinel it is, Kai nodded, not minding the name. At least it suited the golem. As the golem stood tall once again, with Amyra perched on its broad shoulder, Kai found himself watching her. Her excitement was infectious, completely opposite of the time he had first talked to her, but he had something serious on his mind. A part of him felt like it wasn''t the right time to speak as he had been biding time all this while, but with the beast wave on the horizon, he didn''t knew if he was going to get another chance. "Amyra," he began, his tone measured and steady, "I need to talk to you about something." The lightness in Amyras expression faded as she noticed the shift in his demeanour. She looked down at him, her face now serious. "What is it?" Kai hesitated for a moment. "You know a beast wave is coming, and the whole territory is tense because of it. We''re looking for as much help as we can get." Amyra nodded. "Ive been trying to help with the refugees, taking care of them with the maids and doing what I can." Kai shook his head, interrupting her. "Thats not the kind of help I need from you." Amyras eyes widened slightly, surprised by his words. She waited, sensing that there was more he needed to say. Amyra looked down at him, her curiosity piqued. "What do you mean?" Kai met her gaze, his expression calm but intense. "How would you feel about me igniting your heart and helping you become a Mage?" The question hung in the air, and Amyra froze, her breath catching in her throat. Kai watched her reaction closely. He had always known that she possessed the potential her magical organs were intact, and she had everything needed to harness the power of mana. He had never pried too deeply into it, respecting her silence on the matter, but he had kept the knowledge to himself, waiting for the right moment. That moment had arrived. With the looming threat of the beast wave, everything has changed. Amyra''s expression revealed that she wasnt entirely surprised; it seemed she had been aware of her potential all along. Kai continued, his voice steady, "I''m not going to force you into anything. I only know about your potential because I had to check your body for any signs of corruption after the incident with the necromancer. If you dont want to pursue this, you dont have to." Amyra remained silent for a moment, her mind clearly racing as she processed his words. A silence descended over them as he waited for her answer. Finally, she spoke in a low voice. "I''ll think about it." Kai offered her a reassuring smile. "That''s more than enough." Sar?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. *** Kai sat cross legged in his room. His focus was entirely on the inside of his body as he took in mana from the environment, slowly filling his Mana Heart regularly. His breathing was steady, and controlled, as he carefully drew in the ambient mana from the air, letting it flow through his body and into the mana circles. Kais thoughts drifted as he worked. The fourth circle shadowed the horizon. But it wasnt something he could achieve easily. The leap between the third and fourth circles was vast, fraught with danger for those who rushed it. Yet with the beast wave fast approaching, the pressure weighed heavily on him. He had done everything he could to prepare fortifying defences, training the Mages, and arming the golem. But would it be enough? Would pushing himself to reach the next circle give him the edge he needed to protect his people, or would it backfire, leaving him vulnerable at a critical moment? The uncertainty gnawed at him. He knew the risks of forcing his way into the next rank, but the thought of facing the beast wave without every possible advantage was equally unsettling. It was a decision that could determine not only his fate but the fate of everyone under his protection. It hadn''t been a long time since he reached the third circle and the road to the fourth was long, but it wasn''t like there was no way. It just wasn''t a path he wished to take His concentration was abruptly broken by a knock on the door. Kai opened his eyes, the glow of mana fading as he was pulled back to the present. His thoughts were in a disarray, so he took a breath before looking towards the door. He knew who it might be. "Come in," he said, his voice steady as he rose to his feet. Claire entered the room, "You called for me, Lord Arzan? Whats going on?" Kai nodded. "I have a very important task for you, Claire." Her brow furrowed slightly as she fidgeted with her fingers. "What kind of task?" "A task that might decide the outcome of the entire beast wave, Kai said, his eyes dimming slightly. If you aren''t able to do the task, then I might not survive. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! By the way sorry for delay. Working on finishing volume 2 and plotting out volume 3. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 103. A Refugee’s POV As far as her memories went, Rhea had always described herself in one word. Useless. It clung to her like a second skin, always there and suffocating. She recalled it started due to her mother thinking of her as no good. It echoed in her mind when her mothers sharp and disappointed voice cut through the air, berating her for not doing things right burnt bread, uneven stitches, a clumsy fall that shattered a vase. Youre no good at anything, her mother would say, and Rhea would shrink away, the words of inadequacy pressing down on her, harsher and brutal every single time. When her parents were taken from her, their lives snuffed out by a wolf''s claw on the road back from Veralt, she had thought of it once again. She had been just a child then, helpless and trembling as she watched from the bushes, too scared even to cry out. The memory of their screams haunted her dreams, she would wake up thinking of her inability to do anything that mattered. Sear?h the n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Both her parents had died that day, and somehow, through sheer instinct or blind luck, Rhea had found her way back to her village. The entire journey, she was consumed by the thought of her own uselessness. She couldn''t do anything right she hadnt been able to fight off the wolves, hadnt even been able to save her parents. Maybe her mother expected it, for her to be worthless even at a time that mattered at a time she was bleeding to death. After that, she was a helpless child, stumbling through the woods, lost and broken. Life as an orphan in the village was just as bleak. The village chief, out of pity or perhaps obligation, had taken her in, but she was little more than a maid in his household. She scrubbed floors, fetched water, and did her best to remain invisible, head down and unnoticed by everyone. Adolescence came and went, bringing with it a deepening sense of inadequacy. She tried to find somethinganythingthat would make her feel like she wasnt worthless. She tried her hand at every task the village had to offer, but nothing seemed to fit. Nothing made her feel any less useless. She didnt stop. Even though the dreams came back every night to prove that she would always remain the useless one, she fought for a chance to prove to herself that she was worth something. Maybe it was the suppressed anger within her for years that made her want to fight again and again. Or maybe it was the guilt. But those thoughts came to an abrupt halt when the beasts began breaking through the borders of their village. The same type of beast that had killed her parents. Wolves with red fur and fierce eyes that tore away flesh with ease and just their presence was enough to instil fear in their hearts. The village was thrown into chaos, and in the ensuing panic, Rhea did the only thing she could she ran. Alongside the others, she fled, fear driving her every step. A part of her wished to stay behind, to take revenge for her parents, but she knew she was inadequate in fighting too. They became refugees in Veralt, a city Rhea had visited only once, long ago with her parents who were small traders. But the city she remembered was not the Veralt she found herself in now. The once-lively streets, filled with traders and merchants from across the lands, were now choked with desperation. The marketplaces, where she had once marvelled at the colourful displays of goods, were now barren, stalls abandoned or destroyed. The air, once fragrant with the scent of spices and fresh bread, was thick with smoke and the stench of fear. There were a lot of refugees just like her, but there were also a lot of people leaving, away from the fear of the beast. She heard whispers of a beast wave and it seemed like her village was one of the first casualties. Even if the city seemed changed, there was something that caught her gaze far longer the new wall. It was massive and created a sense of awe in her in every way. Work was still going on and the workers moved with a sense of purpose she lacked. To put her mind off the thoughts of losing her home, she looked around. Rhea could recall the exact spot where her parents had bought her a trinket, a small wooden carving of a dragon. That shop was gone now, replaced by a barricade hastily thrown together to keep the refugees at bay. She stood there as days started to pass and soon, they were led to a hastily constructed camp with a few shared houses built in that was supposed to be her new home. It wasn''t the worst, but it wasn''t the best. Still, Rhea was no one to complain of generosity. Anything was better than living on open roads, especially for a young girl like her. In Veralt, life as a refugee had its own set of hardships, but to Rhea, it was almost a relief. They were fed at least once a day, a luxury compared to what she had been used to back in the village. The village chief had often neglected to feed her for days, leaving her to scrape by however she could. So, despite the looming threat of the beasts and the chaos that surrounded them, Rhea found herself oddly content. She was finally receiving enough to eat, something she hadnt known in years. But as she looked around at the clamouring guards and the restless faces of her fellow refugees, the familiar feeling of uselessness crept back into her heart. She watched as the guards prepared purposefully and she felt a sharp pang of inadequacy. They were doing something fighting, protecting, surviving. What was she doing? Just standing there, waiting to be fed, just another mouth in the crowd. Her thoughts ran to the sky when she realised that she was lacking again. That was until the lord returned. Word spread quickly through the camp he had been away, seeking reinforcements, and now he was back to rally the people. Rhea pushed her way to the front of the crowd, desperate to see him. When he spoke, his voice was strong and commanding, cutting through the fear and uncertainty that hung in the air. He called for help from the refugees, asking for anyone willing to stand and fight to join him. As he spoke, Rheas heart skipped a beat. His words lit a spark within her a spark of hope, of purpose. And as her eyes locked onto Lord Arzan, she saw something in him that she had never seen in anyone before a force. They shone with Strength; strength to fight for something that might be the end of all of them. Maybe this was her chance. A grin crept its way to her face. Maybe this was how she could stop feeling useless. She could fight against the beasts, just as those guards were doing. And even if she died, at least her life would end doing something that mattered. Without hesitation, she registered with the guards. The line moved slowly, and she overheard the murmurs of those around her. They wont take girls, one man said dismissively. Especially not young ones like her. But she didnt care. She had made up her mind. She would fight, no matter what. When she finally reached the front of the line, a man named Feroy greeted her with a warm smile. He introduced himself the next second. Unlike the others, he didnt turn her away. Instead, he looked at her with a kindness she hadnt seen in a long time and welcomed her into the refugee guards. *** Her training began the very next day. As she trained, different sorts of expectations pressed down on her. In her village, girls were only expected to cook, clean, and keep the household running. Her mother had always been disappointed in her she was clumsy in the kitchen and had little interest in the tasks that were supposed to define her as a woman. But she had always been fascinated by the blade, by the idea of fighting, even though her mother had dismissed it as foolishness when she explained how she found blades fascinating. Youll never be good with a sword, she would say. Stick to what youre meant for. But here, in Veralt, things were different. Knight Killian was relentless in his training, driving the recruits to their limits each morning and afternoon. Rhea hadn''t felt this exhausted since the gruelling journey to the village after her parents death. Every muscle in her body screamed in protest, but she refused to give up. Theyd do long runs off the ground, then would turn to strengthen their body by exercises and practising sword movements for when beasts would actually attack. The same drills would be trained over and over until their muscles get used to it as Knight Killian explained. As the training days blurred together, her exhaustion reached its peak, and one day, she simply collapsed in the middle of the training ground. The last thing she remembered was the dull thud of her body hitting the dirt, followed by strong arms lifting her. When she came to, Knight Killian was crouched beside her, offering her a flask of water. "You''re pushing yourself too hard," he said. Rhea looked around for a brief moment, taking it all in. Exhaustion filled her being as she drank the water. "This kind of training isnt meant to be a race. Its about endurance." Rhea wiped the sweat from her brow, her breath still coming in ragged gasps. "I have to," she insisted, her voice hoarse but resolute. "I need to do everything I can to survive." Killian looked at her for a moment, studying her. He sighed, finally nodding. "Alright, but pace yourself. There''s no point in pushing so hard that you can''t stand the next day." With that, he helped her to her feet, steadying her as she regained her balance. Once she could walk again, the training resumed. This time, Killian handed her a spear, showing her how to hold it properly. The weapon felt awkward in her hands at first, but she persisted, practising the stances and strikes he demonstrated. The posture, body balance and the grip she had to focus on all three at once. She tried and failed, but continued practising harder. The afternoon stretched on, the sun beating down on them, but she didnt stop, her grip tightening around the spear with each thrust and sweep. Lunchtime, a guard yelled from behind, making Rhea drop the spear at once. Her frown disappeared at the thought of food, her entire body relaxing into the thought of having something to refill her energy, *** After lunch, they were led into a small, makeshift classroom a large tent that offered some relief from the sun. Rhea hadnt expected this when she joined the guards, but apparently, combat wasnt the only thing they needed to learn. The room was filled with crude wooden benches, and at the front, a guard who could read and write stood by a large board, chalk in hand. This had been a part of their routine. Every day, theyd learn more and more about different beasts. So, when the beast wave came all at once, theyd know how they should attack different beasts, and much to their liking, the variations were massive. "Pay attention," the guard named Ansel began, his voice commanding their focus. He drew a rough diagram of a beast on the board, its features exaggerated to show detail. "This is a stalker hawk. Youll be facing these soon enough. Notice the weak points here, at the base where their wing joint is, and here, just above the talons." He tapped the chalk against the board, emphasising the spots. "Theyre fast and would always be just above treetops, but they rely heavily on pack tactics. If you can isolate one, its vulnerable. But be careful, you dont want to chase after it, wait until it chases you." Rhea leaned forward, absorbing every word. The guard went on, detailing the behaviour of the stalker hawks, how they communicated with each other, their strengths, and their weaknesses. He moved on to other creatures, like arsenic bears and trolls, each one more terrifying than the last, explaining how they acted, what to watch out for, and how to exploit their weaknesses. For the first time, Rhea realised the true scale of what they were up against. The beasts werent just mindless creatures; therefore she soaked up every bit of information like a sponge, knowing it could mean the difference between life and death when they attacked. The days sped together as she fell into a strict routine gruelling training sessions under Knight Killian''s watchful eye in the mornings, spear practice in the afternoons, and then evening classes where they studied the monster ecology and battle strategies. By the end of the sixth day, her body ached in ways she hadnt thought possible, but she woke up every day, wanting to practise and learn further. It was the same as usual with the laps and the spear training. Then, she sat in the class, learning about a beast called gorehounds. That evening, however, as the class came to an end, they were stopped by a guard at the entrance for a test. It wasn''t out of nowhere as there were rumours of such a test. Moreover, the Lord himself was going to conduct it. For what? No one knew to be exact. Shed only heard fragments of conversation about this test, something about how those who passed were special, chosen to become the lords personal guards. No one knew exactly what the qualifications were, but everyone waited anxiously, their breaths held as they lined up outside. The Lord appeared, causing all the eyes to fall on him and moved down the line, checking each refugee one by one. Rhea watched as he placed a hand on each persons wrist, his expression unreadable as he conducted the so-called test. Each time, he shook his head slightly, and the rejected refugees looked both relieved and disappointed. The line grew shorter and shorter, and her nerves tightened with each passing moment. Finally, it was her turn. Her bruised hands were clammy as she offered her wrist, her heart thudding in her ears. The Lord took her hand, his touch cool and steady, and she felt a sensation like a ripple spreading through her veins. She stared up at him, trying to read his expression, but he remained stoic. Then, something in his eyes changed. "What is your name?" he asked, his deep voice cutting through the silence. Rhea blinked, caught off guard. He hadnt asked anyone else their name. "R-Rhea, my lord." Before she could say anything more, Knight Killian stepped forward. "My lord, this girl is relentless in her training. She pushes herself beyond her limits, even when her body gives out. Shes determined and stubborn. Her name is Rhea Valen." The lords gaze softened slightly, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. His eyes, dark and intense, met hers. "Rhea Valen," he repeated, "Do you want to be my disciple?" She wondered as something fluttered in her as she stared back at him. She didn''t understand his words properly, but a hope emerged out of the depths of her heart. Maybe, just maybe this was her chance to not be useless. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 104. Mana cannons (1) As Kai looked through the refugees for any signs of an Enforcer, he had only hoped to find one or two of them, but the task unexpectedly led him to discover someone even more special A young girl with all three mana organs present in her body. She hadn''t awakened, but just one look was enough for him to tell that they were undamaged. She was also young, at the perfect age to start her journey. The girl was simply untapped potential waiting to be discovered and even if he had no idea if her talent was exceptional, just her presence was a pleasant surprise. As he approached the girl, she stood with shaky lips. Her blonde hair, tangled and streaked with the dust of training fell just below her ears. Her clothes were simple, well-worn tunic and trousers. From the bruises on her upper arm and her palm, Kai could tell that she was diligent in her training. Her green eyes looked up at him Fear, written all over her face along with anxiety. Is there anyone in your family whos a Mage? The girl hesitated, her gaze flicking to the side as she searched her memory. After a moment, she shook her head. No, Your Lordship. My parents were traders. They Traders? Kai interrupted gently, nodding thoughtfully. It wasnt uncommon, though not the norm for a Mage to come out of the population of commoners. After all, the population of commoners were comparatively larger than others; it was normal to find a magic caster or two among them. As Kai pondered the potential of his unexpected find, Rhea''s curiosity got the better of her. What do you mean by becoming your disciple? Kai smiled at her question. Well, Rhea. Ive discovered that you have the potential to cast magic, even if you cant do it right now. With the right training, we can ignite your Mana heart and awaken you into a Mage. He thought for some time, choosing the right words to explain the situation to her. Being my disciple means Ill teach you magic. Its not the same as being a core disciple, which is a more formal, intimate and important relationship. This is a nominal position, but I will guide you through learning magic. The girls eyes widened with hope. Ill be able to do magic? Then I wont be useless? Although the question caught him off guard, he shook his head. Anyone who can do magic isnt useless. You might not be able to cast spells right away, but with proper training, first-circle spells will be within your reach in no time. Maybe it was too much for Rhea to take, but after staring into his eyes for a second, she immediately bowed deeply. I will work hard, and Im highly grateful for this opportunity, My Lord. Kai chuckled softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. Just call me Lord Arzan. No need to be so formal. Her eyes widened further just when Kai thought it wasnt possible. A slight gasp escaped her lips as Kai turned from her to Killian, who had been quietly observing the exchange. Killian, could you arrange a room for her in the castle? Killian nodded, stepping forward to handle the arrangements. Kais smile lingered as he watched the girls hopeful expression. From now on, your life will be different. Magic will open your eyes to the universe in ways you never imagined. It might be hard and mystical, but if you do well, greater things will await you. Rhea''s mouth opened and closed as if she was unsure what to say. She kept bowing, her face changing expressions from fear to nervousness to pure gratitude as she finally understood the gravity of the situation. Finally, she asked. Lord Arzan What is the universe? Kai laughed, not expecting that question. Ah, thats a big topic. Dont worry, Ill teach you about that too. For now, let''s start with awakening your dormant heart and attempting a first-circle spell. [Fireball] is quite beginner friendly. Its simpler and a lot less intimidating than the universe. Rhea blinked, giving a nod. You can follow Knight Killian from here. He will help you to settle down. Then, we can meet later to start, Kai said gently. She again thanked Kai and quietly followed Killian. As the girl disappeared into the distance with Killian, Kai couldnt help but shake his head. The recruitment had bore better results than he had expected. *** Adding another Mage to the city, especially one Kai could train, was probably the biggest boost to his defence. Rhea might not be able to do much in the beast wave, but she could definitely help out in the back. However, Kais schedule was packed with pressing matters, and he couldnt immediately devote himself to her training. The refugee camp was a hive of activity, and he had more pressing concerns to address. As Kai continued his rounds, scanning for any more anomalies among the refugees, he picked up two more Enforcers hidden among the displaced. Both of them were from villages destroyed due to the beast and had previous battle experience. The first Enforcer, a tall man with a striking scar running down his neck, introduced himself as Talon. His blue eyes, framed by a perpetual frown, suggested a past marked by intense battles and a no-nonsense attitude. Apparently, he had been in the Lancephil army in his youth and had left it to get a position with the village guard in Mangrove village. Talons build was muscular, and his demeanour was one of practised discipline. For a while, he wondered if the man belonged to a knight family or was a generational warrior? But he couldnt question him further as the process had to be haste. The second enforcer, a woman named Lyra, had a different presence altogether. Shorter than Talon but equally imposing, Lyra carried an air of quiet intensity. Her silver hair was cut short and practical. She wore a collection of symbolic tattoos on her arms, which made Kai look twice at her. She had been from the same village as Talon and was part of the hunting team there. In the end, he was pleased to bring them on board. They joined Killian in the special guards, where their training was ramped up to prepare them for their imminent awakening to their powers. Their addition would help bolster the citys defences, but even with this progress, Kai faced a different issue. The guards, while competent, were not yet fully prepared. The Archine Mages had made some decent progress, having tasted true power in the form of Kai''s spell and wanting to better themselves, but the rest of the city''s defences and magical preparations were lagging far behind the urgent deadlines. The overall workload was overwhelming. Both Balen and Orion were struggling to keep up with the mounting demands. Balens workshop was teeming with projects, from the enchanted weapons to the mana cannons, but the deadlines loomed large. Orion, responsible for making large batches of different types of spells, was equally burdened. A few of his apprentices have even lost consciousness due to not getting enough sleep. Even the Mason, Barret, had voiced concerns. We might not finish everything in time, he admitted with a grimace, as he oversaw the construction and fortification of key structures. The beast wave is almost upon us, and were falling behind. Which unfortunately had been true. The scouts had reported that the beasts were making movements and there was a small chance that the beast wave would be arriving sooner than they expected. It was a bad situation, but one that Kai had expected. He wasn''t going to move with his plans without taking in the worst possible scenario for them after all. But the solution to ramping up the work was with Malden, and the merchant hadnt delivered it just yet. Kai knew that time was running out, and every moment counted. Hence, he chose to control what he could and kept going, sleeping less and less to help out in any areas he could. He even cast [Refresh] spells on a lot of people just for them to keep going and seeing that even he being the lord was pushing himself so much, no one was able to complain. *** The walls of the city were a flurry of activity. Kai and Balen took control of setting up the mana cannons, making the workers place them right where they wanted them. Today was the day they were going to test them out. The cannons were mounted at strategic points along the ramparts; the three cannons covered most of the range of the area where the beast would charge from. One in the middle and the other two on the sides, they needed to work together to deal heavy blows to the beast. Balen was at the forefront of securing each cannon with a series of heavy latches to lock themselves in place, ensuring that they were not only stable but also correctly aligned for optimal mana flow. Kai stood next to him as Balen made adjustments on the latches. He glanced at them while his fingers traced the seals that were engraved into the cannons base, using his mana to check the conduits that fed into the core. Killian and Francis stood behind the cannons, waiting for the show to begin. As Balen adjusted a latch with a satisfied grunt, Kai glanced out over the city. He could feel a sense of ease creeping in with the mana cannons placed. It might not take out on the entire beast wave, but it was a big help regardless. Before he could speak to Balen, something caught his eye followed by the sound of hooves running across the road. A large group of carriages headed their way from the distance. The carriages were moving in a convoy, their wheels kicking up clouds of dust as they approached. Kais eyes narrowed as he took in the sight. He turned to Francis and Killian, who both were watching the approaching convoy with equal curiosity. Whats this? Francis asked. We werent expecting any new arrivals today. As the convoy of carriages drew closer, Kai''s eyes widened in recognition. It was no longer just a single group but a procession of multiple carriages, each bearing the weight of critical supplies and reinforcements. At the forefront of the convoy, a flag fluttered with a crest. It was a black tree with a sword carved into its surface and he realised it was the symbol of House Blackwood. Kai''s heart lifted as he realised that the men he had been promised had finally arrived. Following closely behind them, there was another series of carriages with a crest that stood out in particular. It was his own symbol and there was only one person Kai had permitted to use it. Malden is finally here. He hadn''t expected Malden to come together with the men from Duke Blackwood. But his surprise hadn''t ended there. At the very end of the procession, several other carriages belonged to neither party, their rough exterior indicating they belonged to mercenary groups. Leading them was Gorak''s team which had been in his service for a while now. He had specifically asked both Malden and Gorak to bring them more mercenaries when he was in the capital because a beast wave was always good profit for them, though he knew their loyalty could waver at the first sign of danger. But it was a risk that he was willing to take. As the carriages rolled to a halt at the citys entrance, Kais anticipation grew. He decided to greet them personally. Using [Featherfall], he descended unharmed from the walls before any of his retainers could say anything, landing lightly at the forefront of the large group. A knight, resplendent in polished silver armour, was among the first to notice Kais arrival. The knights armour bore the same crest of Blackwood, and his stance was authoritative yet respectful. His helmet was held under one arm, revealing a middle-aged man''s face with a strong jawline and long hair that was tied in the back. You must be Baron Arzan Kellius, the knight said, showing no surprise at Kai''s sudden jump and looking over at his robes. I am Knight Darian Legas, in service to Duke Blackwood. We have been dispatched to assist you. Kai extended a welcoming hand. Knight Darian, its good to see you. Your timely arrival is much appreciated. Before Knight Darian could respond further, Malden emerged from the carriage carrying his unmistakable presence. With him was the mercenary leader, Gorak. Maldens face broke into a grin as he approached, though it was tinged with exhaustion and Kai could see dark circles under his eyes. Lord Arzan! Malden called out, his voice carrying a cheerful lilt despite his condition. You look as good as ever, even with the beast wave looming. Ive brought what you asked for. Kai resisted a chuckle. This man was all about complimentary words without paying heed to the situation. Im glad you made it. Did you manage to bring the shadow seeds? Malden nodded, a satisfied glint in his eye. Yes, theyre all here. And as for the mercenaries, theyve come in good numbers. However, theyd like to discuss their terms and compensation before joining the fight, Gorak walked from behind and added with a tight face. Kai sighed at that. The mixture of Duke Blackwoods guards, Maldens delivery, and the mercenaries created a chaotic but promising scene. Despite the excitement, Kai felt the dire situation slowly settle into his shoulders. The merging of so many groups, though a boon, was overwhelming and required immediate organisation. He rubbed his temples. The convergence of these forces had been orchestrated, with the groups likely joining up for mutual protection on their journey. Nevertheless, it was a lot to manage all at once. He needed to streamline their integration into the citys defence plans and ensure everyone was properly accommodated. As he looked around without giving a direct answer, an idea sparked in his mind. He turned to Knight Darian and the others, who were still in the process of disembarking and assessing their new surroundings. Before we get too caught up in logistics, Kai said, raising his voice, Ill handle the arrangements for your quarters and oversee the unloading of goods. But first, why dont you all come up to the wall? Were about to run a demonstration that should be quite interesting. Knight Darian looked puzzled. A demonstration? Yes, were testing a new artefact weve developed. Its something youll want to see as our most important weapon against the beasts. It should be fun. Darian''s face didn''t show any change, but Kai could see in his eyes that he was intrigued by the promise of an artefact. He nodded. Very well, Lord Arzan. Well follow your lead. With that, Kai led the way up to the wall, Knight Darian and the other key figures following closely behind. As they ascended, Kai could see their curiosity piqued, their earlier weariness momentarily forgotten in anticipation of the demonstration. Upon reaching the top of the wall, the group was greeted by the sight of the mana cannons, now fully assembled and ready for action. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! sea??h th Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 105. Mana cannons (2) As they gathered on the walls, the tension was palpable. Knight Darian eyed the strange apparatus before him with scepticism. Beside him, Malden and Gorak stood silently, their expressions unreadable. A few mercenaries and other Blackwood men had also joined them, their eyes moving between Kai and the cannons with doubt. More than the cannon, many men from Blackwood were wary of the minotaur hovering over the artefact. Some gave looks of questioning, almost as if asking Are you in your right mind by letting that big beastman run around?But others diligently ignored his presence. Knight Darian finally broke the silence. What does this artefact even do? Kais lips curled into a confident smile as he gestured toward the massive, sleek devices lined up along the wall. This, he began, his voice steady, is what I call a mana cannon. These beauties shootout condensed mana in the form of a beam, powerful enough to rival a fourth-circle offensive spell. The knights eyes widened, the hard lines of his face softening with surprise. For the first time since arriving, he showed a hint of genuine emotion. His gaze shifted back to the mana cannons, now with a renewed interest, though a shadow of doubt still lingered. If they can actually do that, Darian murmured. They would be our greatest weapons against the beasts. No, they would be the greatest weapons in the kingdom. Kai nodded to that. Yes, they would be. But before we can count on them, we must test them first. Darians eyes flickered with uncertainty, but the determination in Kais voice left them all muted and awaiting what was about to come. This was no ordinary weapon, and if it worked as he promised, it could turn the tide of the coming battle. All that was left was to see it in action. But as they both conversed, they drew the attention of everyone on the wall. The Blackwood men who stood in stoic silence, let their gazes fix on the mana cannons. But the mercenaries were less reserved. They exchanged glances, some smirking, others openly sceptical. Kai looked at them and immediately realised that they didnt trust Kai or the mana cannon. Therefore, he waited. Soon enough, one man stood out. His fiery red hair was wild and unruly, matching an odd glint in his eyes. He was a burly figure, his broad shoulders and muscular frame barely contained by the worn leather armour he wore. Scars crisscrossed his arms like tattoos. A wicked grin spread across his face as he let out a loud, mocking laugh. What need is there for mercenaries if your fancy cannon can do that? he jeered, his voice probably reaching even the men behind. Youre exaggerating, Lord Arzan. Ive seen artefacts and worked with Mages. Something that could fire off a fourth-circle spell is as precious as a princess virginity! The mercenarys crude remark drew a few chuckles from his comrades, but not everyone was amused. Killians eyes narrowed, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of his sword as he shot a glare at the red-haired man. Gorak and his team, standing nearby, exchanged dark looks before one of them stepped forward, his voice low and menacing. Watch your tongue, Kellen, Finn growled at Kellen. Youre going out of bounds when you havent even seen the cannons power. Kellen, undeterred, smirked and crossed his arms over his chest, eyeing Finn with a mix of amusement and disdain. Then his eyes moved towards Gorak. Whats this, Gorak? You lot, lapdogs of the nobles now? Im just here for the coin. Dont care about buttering up some noble with delusions, even if hes a Mage. The tension on the wall escalated, more frowns appearing among the crowd as hands edged toward weapons. A fight seemed just moments away from breaking out, Kellen walking forward with his axe. But before things could spiral out of control, Kai stepped forward, his voice calm but commanding. No need to fight. In fact, everything will be cleared up soon. Were about to start the demonstration. All eyes turned to him as he shifted his attention to Kellen, the red-haired mercenary still wearing that cocky grin. Kellen, Kai began, a smile creeping onto his face. How about we make a bet? Kellens eyebrows shot up in surprise, the challenge piquing his interest. What kind of bet? Kais smile widened. If the cannon has the power I claim, you and your group fight for the city for free. If it doesnt, Ill pay you ten thousand gold. Kellens eyes widened at the hefty sum. It was probably several times the sum he could earn doing odd quests throughout the year. He glanced at the mana cannons, his confidence wavering as he seemed to consider the possibility. But then, that familiar bravado returned, and he shrugged. Sure, why not? Kellen replied with a chuckle. Im more interested in staying to watch the demonstration now. He agreed so quickly that he didnt even consult his party members. Kai saw two mercenaries behind Kellen frowning, but the terms of the bet were already decided. With so many people on the wall, there was no going back. He nodded and turned back to the crowd. Alright, everyone, take a step back. The cannons are untested, and anything can happen. As the crowd moved away from the cannons, Kai noticed the worried expressions on many of their faces. He quickly added, Dont worry, they wont blow up. Ive got that under control. A few nervous chuckles rippled through the group, easing some of the tension. But as they positioned themselves at a safe distance, all eyes were on the mana cannons, and the anticipation of what was about to unfold hung heavy in the air. Just as Kai was about to begin the demonstration, Darian raised a hand and asked, But how are we even going to do this demonstration? Who are you firing at? Rocks? Kai opened his mouth to reply, but a sudden, raspy snarl echoed across the battlements, sending a chill down the spines of everyone present. The unmistakable cry of a beast, lethal and hungry, reverberated through the air. All heads snapped toward the source of the sound. Kai''s eyes gleamed as he turned back to the knight, a confident smile spreading across his face. Looks like our target just arrived, he said, a hint of excitement in his voice. In the distance, emerging from the edge of the forest, a massive beast lumbered into view. The mercenaries, knights, and onlookers alike tensed, their gazes shifting between the monster and the untested mana cannons. Well then, Kai continued. Lets see what these cannons can really do. *** Rorans breath came in ragged gasps as he sprinted through the dense forest, the world around him a blur of green and brown. Just a month ago, he had thought his life was difficult enduring the harsh regimen of the Archine Tower, preparing for the Ascension Exam, and enduring the constant sneers and bullying from noble-born Mages who treated him like a servant because of his commoner status. But now, as he fled for his life, he realised that compared to this nightmare, those days had been a luxury. A life of relative peace, where his biggest concern was impressing a master or dodging a spell. The wind whipped around his legs, his wind spells boosting him to speeds he never thought possible, his feet barely touching the ground as he darted between trees and leapt over roots and rocks. Every fibre of his being was focused on maintaining the spell, keeping the wind at his back, propelling him forward with desperate speed. Beside him, a man named Gareth, one of the special guards ran with him, matching his pace with an ease that made Roran question if the man was even human. Gareth wasnt a Mage, yet somehow, he kept up without breaking a sweat, his breath steady as they bolted through the wilderness. They were part of a guerrilla unit, a team with a singular, suicidal goal: lure a Grade 3 raptor beast back to the city. A creature that walked on two legs like a man but was as tall as eight feet and far faster than any creature had a right to be. Its scales glistened in the dappled sunlight, its teeth bared in a snarl as it pursued them with relentless hunger. Its scales are a mottled green and brown, blended with the forest freely. The creatures long, sinewy tail whipped behind it as it ran, aiding in its incredible balance. Roran could hear the beasts footsteps pounding behind them, each thud of its clawed feet sending a shockwave of fear through his body. They had already dealt with its lesser kin, smaller raptors that had been dispatched with a combination of Gareths questionable strength and Rorans [Wind Blades]. But this one was different, larger, and far more dangerous. It was faster than anything Roran had ever faced, and despite their best efforts, it was closing the distance. Trust in Lord Arzan! Gareth shouted, his voice cutting through the wind. Just keep running, Mage Roran! Easy for you to say, Roran shouted back. You run like you have the raptor''s blood mixed into your body! Rorans throat burned, and his legs ached, but he pushed on, knowing that slowing down meant certain death. He didnt have the luxury to cast another spell to harm the beast not with all his focus on the one keeping him alive. As a wind Mage, speed was his greatest asset, and his physical conditioning made him an ideal candidate for this insane task. Lord Arzan had seen something in him, had trusted him with this mission, and that thought alone kept him moving. The trees thinned, and Roran could see the edge of the forest ahead. Just a little farther, he told himself, just a little more, and they would reach the open ground where the citys defences might come into play. But the raptor was nearly upon them, its hot breath on the back of his neck, its growl vibrating through the air. Roran felt his soul leave his body for a mere second when Gareths voice came loud like a knife, cutting through the fog. Run, damn it! Roran gritted his teeth and pushed harder, the wind roaring in his ears as he and Gareth broke through the tree line, the city walls looming in the distance. But so did the shadow of the beast, closing in with every step. The city is close! Just a bit more! With a surge of desperate energy, Roran pushed his legs harder, his wind spell straining to its limit. He broke through the thick foliage, leaping from the shadows of the forest and landing hard on the ground. The sight of the city walls in the distance brought a flicker of hope, but there was no time to celebrate. They bolted forward, the raptors shriek echoing behind them, filled with hunger and fury. The beast was out to gobble him right then and there. Ahead, Roran saw Lord Arzan standing on the walls, surrounded by a group of people and a line of carriages at the gates. But there was no time to take in the details; survival was the only thing on his mind. His hand shot up, waving frantically as they closed in on the city. Fire! Now, damn it! Roran shouted. Sarch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. But Lord Arzan didnt move, not immediately. He waited, his eyes locked on the approaching beast, calm as if he were watching a sparring match. Rorans heart nearly stopped ? But just as panic began to take hold, he saw it. The mana cannon, perched on the wall, began to glow, its core heating up as it gathered energy. Then, in an instant, a beam of condensed mana shot forward. The surroundings turned white, the light so intense it erased everything from sight. The force of the blast was overwhelming, and Roran felt himself lifted off the ground, jettisoned like dead weight. He hit the earth hard, rolling to a stop with a groan as the world settled back into focus. A scream of pure agony filled the air, and then silence. Roran pushed himself up, his body aching, and looked back. He couldnt feel his limbs, but he somehow moved. The raptor, the beast that had been moments away from ripping them apart, was gone. In its place were charred remnants, scattered across a blackened patch of earth. The ground was scorched. Next to him, Gareth laughed, a sound filled with relief and awe. I told you to trust Lord Arzan! I told you!! Roran could only stare at the destruction, his mind struggling to comprehend what had just happened. All he knew was that he was alive. Though as he looked at the scorched ground, he wasn''t sure how long would that hold. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 106. A shocking demonstration Kai heard the faint sizzle of the ground where the raptor once stood. Everyone elses eyes were glued to the smoking crater left behind by the mana cannon. Balen was the first to react. His broad, bullish face split into a wide grin, his tusks flashing in the sunlight as he let out a loud laugh that echoed across the walls. If the crowd wasnt there, Kai could swear the minotaur would have started dancing. He clapped his massive hands together, causing a few nearby men to jump. Did you see that? With this kind of power, no beast in the realm will dare to challenge us! Sear?h the n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Duke Blackwoods knight, Darian stood frozen, his stern expression faltering as his mouth dropped open. The mercenaries, who were practically mocking Kai before, stood in stunned silence. Among them, Kellen, still reeling from the shock, looked flabbergasted, "How... How did this happen? That''s... that''s insane. I''ve never seen anything like it!" The red-haired mercenary whod scoffed at the idea of the mana cannons power, kept shaking his head. Impossible. No artefact should have that kind of power. Its unheard of! He wasn''t alone. A chorus of similar whispers spread through the crowd, doubt and disbelief giving way to awe. Kai turned his head, a small, knowing smile playing on his lips as he watched the mercenary struggle to comprehend what he had just witnessed. Stepping forward, he caught the mans eye and said, Im sure you recall the little wager we made a few moments ago. Or is your memory a bit hazy after witnessing the cannons true might? That was a raptor, a Grade 3 beast and only an attack equivalent to a fourth-circle spell could disintegrate it like that. Kellen blinked, his face flushing a deep red that matched his hair. He stammered, searching for words that wouldnt come. The realisation of what hed just lostand to whomsettled over him like a heavy hug. Yeah yeah, I remember, he muttered, swallowing hard. A shadow moved over his head as he stomped his feet in frustration. Damn guess I owe you. Kais smile widened a gleam of triumph in his eyes. That you do, he replied smoothly, already turning his attention back to the mana cannon, where Balen was still celebrating their success. Balens grin stretched to his ears which frankly came out as scary. Kai did not doubt that if he participated in the beast wave, they would surely think twice before charging at the walls. Shaking his head at such thoughts, he kept an eye on Kellen, in case he tried to run away. Noticing Kai''s eye on him, Kellen frowned. I never go back on a bet. Ill serve in the wave defence with my party. His words were heavy and his party was already trying to stop their faces from falling, but there was a flicker of admiration in Keller''s eyes now an acknowledgement of the power Kai commanded. Kai could tell that he wasnt the happiest about losing the bet, but the mans perception of him had changed. After all, Kai wanted the people who were new and unfamiliar with Veralt to know of his true capabilities. Good, Kai replied, his voice steady and authoritative. He turned to face the rest of the mercenaries gathered along the wall. Ill speak with the rest of you about recruitment this evening. For now, youll be settled in the city, but remember: stay out of trouble. We dont need any unnecessary disruptions. The mercenaries nodded in unison, their usual bravado noticeably subdued after what had happened. They exchanged quiet glances. Darian, still grappling with the magnitude of what hed just seen, stepped forward. Lord Arzan, he said, his voice gentle but his gaze firm respect was what he emanated. This kind of power... Even the Archine Tower might not possess something like this. Kai shrugged slightly, a thoughtful look on his face. We cant be sure, he replied. Who knows what tricks the tower might have up its sleeve? But regardless, the mana cannons will give us a fighting chance. The knight nodded, his earlier hesitations melting away. Yes, it will. I brought my men here on the Dukes orders, but I was hesitant. I feared I might be leading them to their deaths. But now, I believe we could actually win this. We need to win, Kai said, reciprocating the firmness in his bearing. Theres too much at stake. He then gestured to Killian and Francis, who had been standing nearby. Killian, Francis, please show Darian and his men to their quarters. The barracks arent in the best shape, given the preparations for the beast wave, but well do our best to accommodate you a lot. The knight gave a respectful bow. Im grateful, Lord Arzan, he said before turning to follow Killian and Francis, who led him and his men away from the wall. As they left, Kai allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. His plan to demonstrate the power of the mana cannons had worked perfectly, quelling doubts and bolstering morale. And, most importantly, the cannons had fired without a hitch no self-destruction, no catastrophic failures. That was a good start. But now, it was time to focus on the more important matters at hand. There was much to prepare, and the beast wave wouldnt wait for them to be ready. Kai turned to Malden, who was still staring at the mana cannons, his eyes wide with a mixture of awe and a glint of greed. Theyre not for sale, Kai said flatly, cutting through Maldens thoughts like a sharp blade. Malden blinked, snapping out of his stupor. What about the blueprints? he asked, a hint of hope still lingering in his voice. Kai shook his head firmly. Not for sale either, he replied, his tone leaving no room for negotiation. But I do have another task for you. Maldens brows furrowed as he listened. Gather a large batch of the shadow seeds and come, Kai continued, and have your men move with the farmers. I want you to plant more of them around the farmlands alongside other seeds you have brought. We need to increase our defences and secure the food supply. Malden gave him a puzzled look. Come, but where? To the kitchen, Kai said, a slight smile playing on his lips. We need to help the city increase its productivity. We have a lot of things going on at the same time, but we are falling behind schedule. Theres a lot more to this fight than just weapons and walls, Malden. The people need to be ready, too. Malden frowned at that but slowly nodded. *** The kitchen buzzed with activity as Malden brought in a large burlap sack filled with shadow seeds. Kai was already waiting, two maids at his side Claire and one of the maids who had tried his Verdura soup for the first time, Maribel. A short but stout woman with a smile so bright she gave the aura of a warm grandma despite her young age. Regardless, they had been called in the middle of their duties, and now they stood before Kai. Place the bag here, Kai instructed, pointing to a sturdy wooden table. Malden did as he was told, setting down the heavy sack with a grunt. Kai turned to the maids, a small smile on his lips. Alright, listen carefully. Were going to make a drink that will help everyone stay awake and be more productive. This, he said, reaching into the sack and pulling out a handful of the dark seeds, is the key ingredient. Were going to use these shadow seeds to make a beverage called well, it''s called a lot of things depending on where you are looking for them. I remember some names were Shadow Brew'', Wakewater, or Java Juice. And it''s also called Coffee which I prefer personally. Claire and Maribel exchanged glances. Maribel was clearly unsure about the dark coffee seeds, but Claire, being used to Kais tactics that were often under his sleeves, nodded firmly at him, allowing him to continue. First, Kai continued, we need to roast the seeds. This is what brings out the flavour. He gestured to a small brazier already glowing with hot coals. Well do this over an open flame. Watch closely. With deft hands, Kai placed a pan over the fire and poured in a small handful of the seeds. He kept the pan moving, ensuring the seeds didnt burn. A rich, earthy aroma began to fill the kitchen, mingling with the heat of the coals. The maids leaned in, their noses twitching as they took in the smell. See that colour? Kai pointed out as the seeds darkened, becoming almost black. Thats what youre looking for a deep roast, but not burnt. This is where the flavour comes from. Once the seeds were roasted to perfection, Kai took them off the heat and placed them in a mortar. Now, we grind them. This is hard work, but its worth it. You want to break them down into a fine powder. He handed the pestle to Maribel. Give it a try. She hesitated for a moment, then began to grind the seeds, her arms straining with the effort. Kai nodded in approval. Good. Just like that. Keep going until its all powder. As Maribel continued, Kai fetched a kettle and filled it with water. He set it over the brazier, waiting for it to boil. Once the water was bubbling, he took it off the heat and poured it over the freshly ground coffee powder in a pot, stirring it gently. Now, we let it steep. This is where the magic happens. Maribel, watching closely, finally asked, What does this drink do? Ive never seen anything like it before. From her left hand, she started massaging her right. The work with the mortar mustve tired her arm which was why he thought theyd need more manpower around the kitchen to make a large batch of these. To answer her question, Kai smiled. Well, its a powerful stimulant. It helps you stay awake and alert, increases productivity, and keeps fatigue at bay. Its like a burst of energy in a cup. With this, we can keep everyone in the city up and working, especially with the beast wave coming. After a few minutes, Kai poured the dark liquid into a mug and took a sip. He closed his eyes, savouring the taste. He had missed this very drink to the core especially when he spent nights in the library his [Refresh] spells had kept him awake. Nothing like a good cup of coffee though. He knew it wasn''t a beverage that anyone in the Lancephil Kingdom knew of, but from the era he came from, coffee was a staple of the Mages, letting them work countless hours without relying on spells to keep them up. Perfect, he said, opening his eyes again. Now, its your turn. Try this. He handed the pot to Claire and Maribel. The maids quickly grabbed mugs and started sipping on the cups of coffee. Simultaneously, their eyes shot up to Kais, for which he offered another gentle smile. He pointed at the roasted seeds. Make large batches of this. Distribute it to everyone from Balen to Orion and the guards on the walls. Take any help you need. We need everyone at their best, and coffee will help us do just that. The maids nodded, their initial curiosity gone. As they set to work, Kai couldnt help but feel a surge of satisfaction. This small act, brewing a simple drink, could very well change the tide of the battle to come. - Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 107. Hard Decisions Amyra always had her eyes on everything that went on in the castle. Since the day she set foot in the place and Lord Arzan permitted her to live here, she made it her mission to explore every nook and cranny. This was the biggest home she had ever seen, let alone lived in, and she knew she had to make the most of it. Every time she went outside the room she was given, she grew closer to the people who lived and worked within the castle walls. Claire, the lord''s personal maid, had become a good friend to her. The two often spent their afternoons together, with the maid patiently teaching Amyra the ins and outs of the castle''s many traditions and responsibilities. Amyra also found herself bonding with other maids like Rose, who always had a funny story to share while they folded laundry, and Eliza, who showed her how to arrange flowers in the dining hall. Each connection helped her get to know about things little by little. Even Francis, the stern old administrator who kept a watchful eye over everything, had shown her kindness; a sort of kindness that she hadnt expected. Whenever they crossed paths in the hallway, he would stop and offer her a small treat a piece of candied fruit or a cookiehis way of welcoming her into the life of staying at the estate. Her bond with Lord Arzan was something else entirely. Their shared time in the library, crafting golems from raw materials had created a unique understanding between them. Lord Arzan had a quiet confidence about him, an unspoken assurance that made her feel safe, and valued. The more they spent time in the workshop, her skills sharpened alongside her confidence grew stronger. Kindness? She wasnt familiar with it. At least, not for a long time. But here, within these walls, surrounded by people who showed her kindness daily, she found herself growing comfortable with it, perhaps even a little spoiled by it. Maybe it was because of this comfort that, when she heard about the approaching beast wave, Amyra decided to give it her all to help others. She poured herself into her work, crafting a giant golem with the same care that Lord Arzan had shown her. She assisted Claire with her daily duties, her hands moving with the learnt expertise she had developed from watching the young maid closely. And as the refugees began to arrive she was there, helping them settle in, providing whatever comfort and assistance she could. In a way, she knew shed do anything to protect this place and these people who had slowly become her family, no matter the cost. Her efforts bore fruit as she felt herself becoming a real part of this new world. No longer a burden, but someone actively contributing, she began to see herself not just as a stray picked up off the streets but as a person with a goal. Every day spent helping Claire, crafting more of the golem, and every kind word shared with the maids made her feel like she was growing up. It was a strange, fulfilling sensation like she was finally finding her place in the world. Her heart swelled with something she couldn''t put into words when she thought of it. As the golem she had crafted Sentinel finally moved, she again felt like she had fulfilled her duties, and played her role in the beast wave. But then, when Lord Arzan asked her if she wanted to ignite her Mana heart, her whole world trembled. The question had been a ghost in her mind, lingering and walking aimlessly. She knew she had talents gifts that had been with her since birth. She had been reminded of that by a lot of people, way before she had found herself in Veralt. But all she knew of magic and Mages were memories tainted with fear and bitterness. No good memories existed for her, none except those involving Lord Arzan. To her, he was an exception, not the norm. After the question was pointed at her, one thing she knew was that she didn''t want to be like those Mages she despised, those who had used their powers to hurt, control, and manipulate. The thought of becoming like them felt wrong, a betrayal of the person she had been working so hard to become. A part of her wanted to accept that this was just her destiny, something inescapable, and yet she found herself running from it. She had decided to stay here, as Amyra, forsaking her full name and everything it represented. Thinking of it gave her a headache. Three days went by like that, but her head still throbbed. Frustrated, she moved away from her room, hoping a walk would clear her mind. As she wandered through the castle halls, she glanced out a window and saw a large group of men moving out of the gates. Claire had mentioned them before the mercenaries that had arrived recently, men for hire who put their lives in danger for coin. Lord Arzan had been negotiating with them, binding them to his service with promises of gold and glory, securing their aid for the coming conflict. Amyra watched them for a while, wondering how useful they would truly be against the beast wave. They were strong, trained, and brave unlike her. Maybe they would be more useful than she could ever hope to be. Doubt started filling her chest, but she pushed it aside, reminding herself of what she had already accomplished. She was doing her part, in her own way, even if it didnt involve swinging a sword or casting spells. Sear?h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Then, with a small sigh, Amyra moved again. Her feet led her to the stairs that wound down toward the training grounds, where the noise of metal clashing and the shouts of instructors filled the air. She had become familiar with the routine: the guards training with so much enthusiasm, and the refugees, those strong and bold enough, being prepared for the upcoming battle. But today, something was different. Her eyes widened as she saw her golem standing tall amidst the men, now draped in armour. A few guards were busy fitting it with plates and pauldrons, making adjustments under the keen eye of Balen, the blacksmith. Amyras heart fluttered with a mix of pride and joy. Sentinel, a creation she had worked tirelessly to build, was going to be part of the battle. It would serve a purpose, perhaps even take her place on the front lines. Maybe if the golem proved itself useful, she wouldnt have to be a Mage after all. Yes, that would be enough. There was no reason for her to Her train of thought was abruptly interrupted by a voice calling out to her. Amyra! She turned to see a girl around her age approaching with a bright, curious smile. She had blonde hair, neatly combed, falling just below her ears, and her eyes were a striking shade of green, wide with youthful excitement. She wore simple training robes, but there was a strange energy to her. She could feel it in her aura. Hello, Im Rhea, the girl introduced herself cheerfully. Knight Killian told me about you. Are you going to be my fellow apprentice? Amyras eyes widened in surprise. It took her a moment to process Rheas words, but then understanding dawned. This girl was like her an unawakened Mage. And from the way Rhea was looking at her, shifting from foot to foot in anticipation, it was clear that she was eager to start her training under Lord Arzans guidance and start a friendly companionship with her. While she, herself had been grappling with her fears and doubts, Rhea seemed thrilled at the prospect of learning magic. A mixture of emotions welled up inside Amyra envy for Rheas unclouded enthusiasm, fear of what the future might hold for both of them and a tiny, flickering spark of hope. Amyra took a moment before responding, her voice quiet, almost hesitant. "I don''t know," she admitted. Rhea tilted her head in confusion, her brow furrowing slightly. "Why not? Knight Killian said you have potential. Lord Arzan said so too." "Yes, I have potential," Amyra said, nodding slowly. "But I don''t know if this is the path for me." Rhea''s expression shifted to one of earnest curiosity. "Why wouldnt you want to be a Mage?" Amyra glanced away, searching for the right words. Before she could speak, Rhea continued, "I dont want to be useless. I want to be useful. Lord Arzan is the most useful person around. Everyone says so. I want to be like that to feel like I can change things, to have some agency." "But magic is dangerous. Rhea shrugged. "Being powerless is dangerous too." She paused, then added, "My father used to say that death comes for everyone, no matter what. It came for my parents too. It''s going to come for me too. I dont want to stand there, helpless, not being able to do anything when it comes for me." Amyra was silent, her eyes locked on Rhea as she absorbed the girl''s words. They were oddly grim for her age but were spoken with enthusiasm. Rhea broke the silence, her voice a bit lighter. "Lord Arzan is going to train me this evening. He told me to rest before the awakening, so I came here to watch the training. But theres not much for me to do until then." She glanced around, her energy shifting restlessly. Amyra thought over her words. She didnt know what to respond with. Maybe awakening wouldnt be as half as bad as she thought it to be, but again becoming a Mage meant selling her soul to become something she never thought she would be. Her thoughts bubbled up like a hot churn as she stared at the pair of trees. Her only distraction was Rheas occasional finger tapping against her elbow, trying to get her attention. Moments passed like that. Seeing that Amyra had nothing more to say, Rhea sighed and turned away. "Well, I guess Ill see you this evening if youve made your decision by then." With a wave, she moved off to speak with a group of guards, leaving Amyra standing alone with her thoughts. Amyra remained rooted in place, her eyes distant as images flickered through her mind visions of death, blood, and flames, mingled with the memory of an evil smile and the cold, unyielding bars of a cage. Each image was a jagged shard of her past, like a stab at her heart. Then, almost as if by a force of will, the dark visions gave way to a warm, healing light, a memory of gentle hands and soothing magic that had once saved her. Her heart was in turmoil. Magic it was both destruction and healing, pain and relief. She knew she needed to choose what she wanted it to mean for her, and what path she would take. As she struggled with her thoughts, a voice echoed in her mind, a haunting echo from a time long past: She frowned at those words. They were heavily layered with expectation and a cruel kind of hope. But as she recalled them, something shifted inside her. A decision settled in her heart. *** The jagged peaks of the mountains were visible in the distance from the valley below. Towering pines and hardy shrubs clung to the rocky slopes, their roots winding through cracks and crevices. In this harsh terrain, nestled against a sheer cliff face, lay the camp of the Lombards Clan. A river of leather tents and hide-covered shelters sprawled across the valley floor, campfires puffing wisps of smoke into the air. A few warriors sharpened their blades by the fires, and their women mended clothes and cooked meals from afar, and children played with carved wooden toys. But most of the attention was gathered to the centre of the camp where a large circle formed, a brutal fight taking place. The air was thick with tension, and the rhythmic chanting of the clan members was loud enough for anyone from miles away to know that there was something ongoing here. In the middle of the circle, Ragnar, son of Yafgar, stood facing an older, more seasoned warrior in a bout of strength. His face was already smeared with blood, his breathing coming out in huffs and puffs, but his eyes burned with a sense of fierceness to it. They were not ready to give up. He lunged forward, swinging his axe with all his might, but his opponent deftly sidestepped, delivering a crushing blow to Ragnars side with a gauntleted fist. Ragnar stumbled but refused to fall. Despite the pain and the inevitable defeat looming, he pressed on, knowing that this was the only way to regain the respect of his people. He had lost their trust once, during a failed raid that had left them vulnerable and ashamed. Now, he had to prove himself all over again, and he was willing to spill his blood to do it. High above the crowd, standing on a rocky ledge overlooking the arena, Yafgar of the Lombards Clan, watched the fight with an unreadable expression. His eyes never left his son, even as his second-in-command, Brugnar approached and stood beside him. "He''s putting up a good fight," Brugnar said, his voice low and rough. "But he wont last much longer. Shouldnt we call it off before he gets himself killed?" Yafgar shook his head, his gaze still fixed on Ragnar who was getting punched left and right. "He must regain the trust of our people, Brugnar. After his failure, no words or deeds will suffice but this. A bout of strength is a long-standing tradition for a reason. He needs to show them his strength, and his resolve. No more gains from banditry will help him. This is the only way." Brugnar nodded, though he couldnt hide the concern in his eyes. "I understand, Chief. But still, its hard to watch. He''s your son." Yafgars face remained stoic, though his eyes softened for a moment. "A leader must be willing to sacrifice everything for the good of his people, even his blood. Ragnar understands this. Thats why he fights." For a while, they stood in silence, watching the bout below. The clans cheers grew louder with each passing moment, urging both fighters on. Finally, Brugnar broke the silence again. "And what of the invitation from the Blessed Lord? The call to fight against the beast wave? What will you do?" "I have been considering it. The beasts are a threat not just to us, but to all who live in these mountains. Joining forces with the Blessed Lord could benefit our clan. But I wanted to hear your thoughts, Brugnar." Brugnar rubbed his chin thoughtfully before speaking, drawing his finger on the scar on his face. "I think we should send Ragnar and the others who were captured during the raid. They have much to prove, and fighting against the beasts could restore some of their honour." As Ragnar took another hit, nearly falling to his knees but somehow finding the strength to rise again, Yafgars jaw tightened. "Why? "The letter from the Blessed Lord mentions that fighting the beasts and saving lives could restore Ragnars honour. Our young generation has lost its way, led astray by our banditry. This is more than a chance for Ragnar to redeem himself; it''s a chance for him to see a different path, a path of true honour and bravery. Aligning ourselves with someone as honourable as the Blessed Lord could also help us rebuild connections and restore our clans reputation." Yafgar nodded. "I had considered similar points. Ragnar is the future of our clan, and he needs to experience the broader world if he is to lead us. If we cannot return to our old ways and wish to make this new home our own, forming alliances will be crucial. The Blessed Lords power and the trust the elements have placed in him suggest he is a force to be reckoned with. I still dont trust the man, but his elements Im considering it." Brugnar gave a curt nod. "I will send back a letter with Ragnar, detailing our decision and our intentions. I will accompany him to ensure he doesnt lose his life in the process." "Very well," Yafgar agreed. "Make sure Ragnar is protected and guided well. We cannot afford to lose him now." As the two leaders spoke, the fight in the arena reached its climax. Ragnar, exhausted and bloodied, finally fell to the ground. His opponent, victorious but respectful, offered a hand to help him up. The crowd''s cheer was filled with cheers and sympathetic murmurs. Some were closing their mouths in shock while Ragnar lay there, gasping for breath, his body battered but his spirit unbroken. He shook his head at the hand that was offered to him and lifted his upper body to cough blood to the side. A smirk broke into Yafgars face. The bloody animal wasnt someone to accept defeat like that. If anything, Yafgar was sure he got that trait from him. Im going down, Brugnar walked from where they were, making the chieftain sigh. Make sure he''s healed before you all leave for the Blessed Lord''s territory and make sure my son behaves himself. If the lord is honourable, so are we. I will tell him that. - 108. Apprentice awakening Ever since he had ordered the distribution of coffee in large batches, the productivity around the castle had surged by at least three times. It was almost uncanny people who once struggled to keep their eyes open were now working tirelessly, seemingly without needing sleep. He knew this wasnt sustainable in the long run; their bodies would pay the price eventually. But right now, there was no choice. The guards and Mages were the only exceptions, mandated to get proper rest for the upcoming battle. As for the rest? Well, they would have to push through. There was simply too much at stake. Kai himself was buried under a mountain of tasks. With the reinforcements arriving, he had to arrange accommodations in the barracks and negotiate contracts with the mercenaries. At least the mercs were behaving themselves, an unsurprising turn of events after their little demonstration with the cannons. The display of powers had done wonders. Most of the mercenaries, now convinced of their odds, had become surprisingly amicable, ready to settle in and get to work. When it came to the contract discussions, the mood was unexpectedly light. The mercenaries were confident about the upcoming battle. The cannons and the preparations had helped with their confidence. They still haggled over every copper coinmercenaries were, after all, mercenaries but there was a sense of cooperation in the air. Thankfully, Francis had handled most of the negotiations. His experience and sharp tongue ensured that they secured a solid number of seasoned warriors, men and women who could hopefully tip the scales in their favour when the time came. Not everyone had agreed to the terms, of course. Some had scoffed at the prices offered, demanding more than Kai was willing to pay. They left in a huff, muttering about risking their necks for pennies. But most had stayed. They knew what awaited them out there in the wilderness and had calculated their odds. Besides, the promise of coins and the thrill of battle were too tempting for many of the mercenaries to pass up. Kai couldn''t help but feel a surge of satisfaction. This was beyond his initial expectations. He had expected twenty of them to stay, but almost triple that number had signed contracts with Veralt. As he moved from one task to the next, his mind kept circling back to the cannons. The Mana cannons had been the game-changer. Aside from managing the chaos, Kai had another important task on his mind: awakening the Mana heart of Rhea, the young girl who he recently took as an apprentice. She had been eager to learn about magic and after a few days of staying in the castle, she would finally start on her journey as a Mage. He also had been patiently waiting for Amyra''s response to his offer, ready to give her more time if needed. But on the day he had planned to begin Rhea''s training, Amyra showed up unexpectedly, bringing Rhea along with her to his room. Kai was pleasantly surprised by her arrival. He had been prepared to wait a bit longer for her decision, but it seemed fate had other plans. Looking at Amyra, he couldnt help but give her a genuine smile. "Im happy to see you here, Amyra. Have you made your decision?" She nodded, a slight wavering in her eyes that soon got shadowed by her determination. "Yes, Ive realised that running away wont solve anything. I want to embrace magic, even if Im still hesitant about learning anything that could harm others. But Im ready to become a Mage." Kais smile widened at her words. On the other hand, Rhea, full of enthusiasm, chimed in, "I want to learn spells that can do damage!" Kai chuckled at her eagerness. "Even after awakening your Mana Heart, I would only teach you one offensive spell, but thats strictly for self-defence. Youre not going to be fighting with the others." Rheas face fell slightly. "Why not? I was going to fight as a refugee." Kais tone was patient but firm as he explained, "Being a guard and being a Mage are two different things. Right now, with what you know and what you will know soon, youre far more valuable off the front lines. In the beast wave, as a new Mage, you wouldnt add much to the fight. Instead, Ill be teaching you spells to aid with healing so you can support others." Rhea nodded slowly, digesting his words, while Amyras face lit up at the mention of healing. It seemed the idea of magic being used for something other than harm made her feel for magic deeply. Kai sat both Amyra and Rhea down right after. The floor was big enough for them to spread their legs, but he got them to sit with their legs folded in a meditative position. "All right," he began, "there are many methods for awakening one''s Mana heart, but most of them revolve around one key principle: moving Mana in circles around your already present Mana heart." He glanced at the two girls to ensure they were following along. "You know about the three organs, right? I sent out a diagram and an explanation on them by Claire yesterday." His question was directed at Rhea who nodded. "Even if I wasn''t able to read it, Claire explained it to me." She looked down briefly, then added, "I can''t read or write yet, but Claire''s been teaching me the basics whenever she has some spare time." Kai nodded with understanding. "That''s good to hear, Rhea. Its important to learn as much as you can, even if its just the basics for now." He then continued, "The method well be using for your awakening is called the Quin Method of awakening. It is taking as much as Mana possible from the environment and guiding it in the anticlockwise direction. It would basically heat the Mana heart and expand it more, increasing the rate of generation. The key is to focus on making the mana flow in a circular motion. This helps to gradually build and expand your Mana heart, making it stronger and more efficient at holding and utilising mana." Throughout the explanation, he showed the process by moving mana around his hands in a circular motion. So that they would know about the way they should imagine the mana circulating their Mana hearts. He paused, looking at both of them to see if they had any questions. Rhea''s hand shot up. "Why does it have to be a circle? And if the way of becoming a Mage is forming a circle in your heart, does that mean a circle can be taken out like a heart?" Amyra gave Rhea a curious look, but there was a spark of interest in her eyes too. Kai smiled, appreciating Rhea''s inquisitive nature. "Its not that simple," he explained. "We use circles because theyre the most effective shape for expanding the Mana Heart. A circle is continuous, with no beginning or end, which allows mana to flow smoothly and evenly. As you grow stronger, you can add more circles, which further enhances your abilities. "People have tried other shapes and methods, and while some have had limited success, the circle remains the most effective for most Mages. As for your second question, the circles arent something that can be ''taken out.'' They aren''t a physical part of your body, like a heart or a lung. The circles exist in a metaphysical reality thats linked to your Mana heart. Think of it like having a small realm inside your heart a world of its own, where your mana resides and flows. Its not visible or tangible in the usual sense, but its very much a part of you." Both girls listened intently, absorbing his explanation. Thats fascinating. It was Amyras voice that came rather in awe. It is. Theres an entire field of study devoted to mana organs, and who knows? In the future, we might even see whole disciplines emerge around mana surgeries and enhancements. But for now, we need to focus on the awakening process. He extended his hands, guiding them through the first steps. Feel the mana around you, he instructed. Direct it towards your Mana heart. The goal is to absorb it and begin the circular flow. As Kai demonstrated, his mana flowed smoothly into their hands, creating a tangible connection. At first, Kai used his own mana to create their flow and smoothen it, so theyd gradually increase the speed towards the direction he wanted them to go. With that, they followed his instructions silently. Rhea, having already practised sensing and drawing in mana in the last few days, was eager to apply her skills. Amyra, though new to the process, seemed to pick up on it quickly. With their hands in position, Rhea and Amyra began their work. The process was slow at first, but Kai observed them closely. Rhea''s efforts were commendable, and despite her struggle, she was making progress. Amyra, however, was absorbing mana with an ease that suggested a natural talent. Kai noted that her ability was far beyond his initial assessment. As the hours passed, both Amyra and Rhea continued their work. The initial rapid beat of their hearts had calmed down considering the steady pace they were moving mana at it was progress. But Kai patiently waited seated in front of the two girls. The mana absorption process took time, much longer than Kais own initial experience, but the signs of breakthrough were clear. They were getting closer to forming a circle, their movements becoming more fluid and their control over the mana improving steadily. He felt every single surge of energy that coursed through them as if his own due to his heightened senses. By the end of the session, Kai was impressed. Their progress was swift compared to his first attempt in his previous life, and it was evident they had a natural affinity for absorbing mana. The slow, steady accumulation of mana and the beginnings of circular formation indicated they were well on their way to awakening their Mana hearts. Kai nodded with approval, satisfied with their efforts. "You''re both doing exceptionally well. Keep at it, and you''ll soon master the basics. You are very close to forming your first circle." He said in a slow voice. He didnt want them to leave their trance, but at the same time, he wanted them to know that they were doing well and they were closer to breaking through. Just like he thought, Amyra was the first to feel the unmistakable shift within herself. Kai sensed the awakening of her Mana heart, a distinct energy that marked her as a true Mage. Rhea, too, was close, and after another half-hour, her Mana heart finally ignited. Both of their reactions were different, but they were clearly fascinated with all the mana filling their bodies. Woah! Rhea almost squealed in delight. I feel incredible. On the other hand, Amyra''s eyes were widened, having slowly gotten used to her body generating way more mana than before in the last half hour. She simply looked at Kai with an unrecognisable expression, but she didn''t seem to regret becoming a Mage. Kai, observing their reactions, gave them a reassuring smile. Congratulations, youre both officially Mages now. Its a significant achievement, and under different circumstances, wed have celebrated this milestone with a grand feast. However, time is of the essence. So, while theres no party today, know that youve accomplished something remarkable. You are more than just ordinary now. Sarch* The n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His gaze shifted to Rhea and Amyra, studying them closely. He moved his mana to probe them to check their mana generation rates and was taken aback by the results. Rheas mana generation had increased to fifteen times her previous rate, a standard outcome with the Quin method. However, Amyras rate was even more extraordinary twenty times the normal level. Kais eyes widened in surprise as he realised the magnitude of her talent. His own Mana heart, now well-developed and powerful, only managed seventeen times the normal rate at the first circle and that was already beyond extraordinary. Amyras ability was exceptional, marking her as a prodigy even among geniuses. As he looked at her, he realised that if he hadn''t saved her back in Vasper Forest, she probably would have passed away. It might have happened in his previous life and the world had lost out on a Mage that held enough talent to reach the peak of the mystic arts. You, Kai said, turning to Amyra, are an exceptional talent. Your mana generation rate is beyond anything Ive encountered, even in my own experience. Its clear you have a natural gift for this. Amyras lips slightly parted. She didnt say a word to his response but seemed happy at the compliment. Kais mind drifted back to an earlier observation. Hed noticed it while he had treated her and confirmed during the mana absorption Amyras body seemed almost sculpted for magic. Her veins were perfectly sized for the flow of mana, and her ability to sense it was as acute as his own. It was clear her natural affinity for magic was more than just a talent; it was almost as if her body had been designed for it. As he pondered this, Rheas eager voice pulled him from his thoughts. Are you going to teach us spells now? Kai nodded, shifting his focus back to the task at hand. Yes, well start with a basic spell a [Light ball]. Its fundamental but essential for grasping the basics of spellcasting. What does it do? Amyra asked, looking a bit wary now that they were moving onto spells. Don''t worry. It simply creates a ball of light to light up dark areas. Nothing dangerous. It''s an easy light affinity spell that most people can perform. Well take it step by step. The [Light ball] spell will help you get used to manipulating your mana and channelling it into something tangible. Amyra slowly nodded. Kai gave a reassuring smile and focused on Rhea, who eagerly waited till Kai started to speak again. With that, he forgot about his thoughts about Amyras exceptional aptitude for now. There would be plenty of time to explore her potential further in the days to come. The priority was teaching them the fundamentals of magic, starting with a spell that was as simple as it was essential. *** After the awakening of his apprentices, Kai had initially planned to delve into more advanced teachings. He was eager to introduce them to first-circle spells and teach them the correct way of pronouncing incantations and spell structures, but time was against him. The pressing demands of preparing for the upcoming beast wave meant that he had to delegate their further training, leaving them to experiment with simpler spells and learn at their own pace. His attention shifted to more urgent matters. The enchantment of additional weapons was a top priority, and he also needed to oversee further tests on the mana cannons ensuring they could be reloaded rapidly and function efficiently for multiple uses. Each test brought them closer to being fully prepared for the beast wave, but before that, there was one more crucial objective that he needed to accomplish. This task required him to join one of the guerilla teams. The team consisted of Gareth and Ronan, an Enforcer and a Mage he was already acquainted with, and two additional membersLena and Jarek ordinary hunters who had been recruited from villages and were quick on their feet. Their destination was an underground cave, concealed beneath a hill to the far left where the beast wave''s main force was gathering. Originally, the others seemed to think of it as another guerrilla attack, but as he interrupted their lines, he presented them with two bags with leather strips. Kai, now leading the group, consulted a hand-drawn map as they navigated the dimly lit terrain. The caves entrance was obscured by thick underbrush, and the path inside was narrow. The team moved cautiously, their footsteps muffled against the caves rocky floor. Midway through their descent Gareth finally broke the silence. Lord Arzan, he began, his curiosity evident. Can I ask something? Kai glanced back, nodding. Go ahead. Gareth hesitated before speaking. Im curious why youre here with us. Originally, this was supposed to be a standard guerilla mission. But when you arrived with those two bags, he gestured to the items slung over Ronan''s shoulders, It seemed unusual. Lena and Jarek looked their way and silently leaned closer. The question mustve been in their heads for some time by how they all awaited Kais response. Given that the beast wave is approaching, I thought it prudent to seek out potential allies. Ive heard whispers of beings who dwell in these caves, and I believe they might be able to lend their support. Gareths eyes widened. You think there are human tribes living here? Not exac Before Kai could provide an answer, a deafening noise echoed through the cave, followed by a distant scream. All of them tensed, but whoever the scream came from, it wasn''t close to them. Stay alert and follow me, Kai instructed, his tone firm. He quickened his pace, leading the team deeper into the cave. Keep your weapons ready. The caves like these often hold a lot of dangers. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 109. Frays Kai knew that alliances were one of the keys to victory for the beast wave, but other than Duke Blackwood, he couldn''t get support from any other nobles. There were smaller nobles in Sylvan enclave, but all had sworn allegiance to House Kellius and they wouldn''t help him. The royal family had also disappointed him, and hiring mercenaries was limited, so he stretched the extent of his strategy beyond common sense. If he couldn''t get humans to rally with him, he would seek out other speciesnot the elves or the dwarves, but the beasts themselves. While many saw the upcoming beast wave as a uniform threatmindless monsters driven to madness by the brood mothers call Kai saw potential allies among them. He knew not every beast in the Vasper Forest would bend to the brood mother''s will. Some creatures were too proud, too wild, or simply too intelligent to fall in line. As the brood mother forced her dominion, rallying beasts to her cause, she unintentionally created resistance. Reports from his scouts confirmed Kai''s suspicions; skirmishes between the beasts, bloody clashes and fractured unity. On another hand, his understanding of the forest came not only from scouts. He had gained his fair share of information from the forest spirit, about the types of beasts and their grades. Yet, it was Hendrick''s diary that proved invaluable.The old tome contained far more than just tales about the larvae queen''s childhood and Hendricks'' love for her. It mapped out the ecosystem of the Vasper Forest, detailing every beast, from the smallest critter to the most fearsome predator. Among the entries, one particular species caught Kais eye: the frays. They were described as feline-like creatures with sleek, shadowy fur and piercing violet eyes, the frays were apex predators in their own right. These creatures walked on two legs, lived deep underground, and possessed intelligence far beyond that of most beasts. A select few could even communicate with humans in rough, guttural voices. Hendrick had meticulously detailed their quirks and the layout of their subterranean lair. But what stood out the most was the mention of their hatred for the arachne spiders. The frays and the arachne spiders were mortal enemies as far as the entries went. The strength of the frays varied, but most were formidable grade-two beasts, with their pack leaders reaching the might of grade three. Intelligent and fiercely territorial, they were known to hunt in the twilight hours, striking with deadly precision. But there was more. Hendrick, during his explorations, had somehow managed to earn the trust of the frays. A rare feat, as these creatures were notoriously aloof and wary of outsiders. The diary explained the moments of connection, mentioning a pact of mutual respect and understanding a fragile alliance between man and beast. Hendrick had believed that the frays saw themselves as guardians of the forest, which also meant that according to him, they were creatures who would never bow to a tyrant like the brood mother. With that, Kais mind raised different possibilities. This animosity was exactly what Kai needed. If he could ally with the frays against the brood mother and her beast minions, he might be able to gain one more potential ally. With this goal in mind, Kai and his group descended into the caves, guided by the map in Hendrick''s diary. The deeper they ventured, the thicker the air became, tainted with the scent of decay. It clung to their nostrils, a foul mixture of mould and something far more unsettling that it reached their guts at the speed of lightning. Kai felt a prickle of unease crawl up his spine as he heard distant, echoing screams and the sound of chitin scraping against stone. He stopped, glancing back at the scouts following him, their facial expressions showing in the soft glow of lanterns. "Do you smell that?" Kai asked, his voice barely above a whisper. There''s also noises mixed in with the smell. Gareth nodded grimly. It smells like rot. It''s faint, but I''m able to pick up on it. As for the noises, we need to see what it''s about, but it sounds like a battle. Kai frowned, suspicion twisting in his gut. He had a faint inkling of who the screams belonged to. Certainly not humans. If he was right, the arachne spiders were here. Either that or more beasts were living in the cave he wasn''t aware of. Even if that was the case, it didn''t explain the smell of decay in the air. Were they dead bodies or something else? He couldn''t be sure without taking a look at it. They pressed on. The path before them wound downwards, a narrow, twisting tunnel barely wide enough for two people to walk side by side. The walls were damp, slick with moisture, and covered in thick, tangled roots that Kai felt were alive. Shadows moved across the rough stone, playing tricks on the eye and making it hard to tell what was real and what was just a figment of their imagination. As they descended further, the tunnel widened. Here, the walls seemed to stretch on forever, towering above them like the ribs of some ancient, long-dead beast. Stalactites hung from the ceiling, dripping water that echoed through the chamber like a thousand ticking clocks. The ground beneath their feet was uneven, covered in a thick layer of greenish moss that glowed faintly in the darkness. The more they moved, the noisier it got. The stench also grew, assaulting his nostrils. Kai led them towards a narrow ledge overlooking a larger cave below. The noises were coming from there and one more beastly scream confirmed it. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. As they reached the edge, he motioned for everyone to stay silent and crouch down. Carefully, he peered over the ledge, his eyes widening at the sight before him. The sight below was like something out of a nightmare. As he had expected, dozens of large, black arachne spiders were fighting with a group of frays. The frays were large everything else matched the description in the diary. Their white fur was striped with glowing red patterns, usually known to happen when they were in fury. They moved with savage grace, their muscular bodies rippling under their fur as they leapt and dodged the arachne spiders venomous fangs and razor-sharp legs. Their eyes burned with a fierce intensity, and as they grew angrier, the red stripes along their fur glowed brighter, casting a blood-red light that mingled with the green of the moss. The leader of the arachne spiders, a massive creature standing a head taller than the others, roared commands in a language Kai couldn''t understand, directing the battle. The arachne spiders were a terrifying sight. Their bodies were covered in thick, chitinous armour, each spider the size of a large horse. Their eight eyes glowed a sickly yellow, and their fangs dripped with a viscous, green venom that hissed and smoked whenever it touched the stone. They moved with an unnatural speed and precision, swarming over the frays in a coordinated attack that spoke of a hive mind driving them forward. Kai counted quickly there were at least five dozen frays in total, but only three dozen were actively fighting. The rest, mostly the old and the young, huddled in the alcoves, watching the battle without a hiss. There were also a few dead bodies on the ground, casualties that had probably died in the initial assault. The arachne spiders outnumbered the fray warriors two to one, but the frays fought with a ferocity born of desperation, knowing that this was their home and they needed to protect it. What seemed like the leader of the frays, a more muscular beast with half of its fur covered with red stripes, let out a furious howl, lunging at a spider that had managed to break through the line. With a swift swipe of its massive leg, the fray tore through the spider''s carapace, sending a spray of green ichor across the stone floor. The other frays took heart from their leader''s actions, rallying together and pushing back against the spiders with renewed vigour. But the spiders were proving to be tougher adversaries than the frays had anticipated. Their shells deflected most of the attacks, and when the frays did manage to land a hit, their legs skidded off the hard chitin more often than not. Kai clenched his fists. This was his chance. The frays were on the brink, but they hadnt fallen yet. If he could intervene, and turn the tide of this battle, then perhaps it would be easier to get them to their side. But there was something else that concerned him. The smell of decay that they had been smelling was the strongest in the cavern and it wasn''t because of the dead bodies of the frays on the ground, but the spiders that fought them. Kai was sure of it. As he focused on them, he saw the signs black lines running through their shells, pulsing with dark energy that seemed to throb in time with the spiders'' movements. Their eyes were shadowed by a deep shade of black as if the darkness had seeped into their very souls. Their movements were jerky yet unnaturally quick, each strike filled with a savage intensity that bordered on manic. He watched as a spider shot a web at a fray. The webbing wasnt the usual sticky silver thread; instead, it glistened with a dark, ominous hue, like it was coated in darkness. His eyes widened as he realised what he was seeing the webs were imbued with dead mana. These weren''t the normal arachne spiders that had attacked Veralt a few months back, these were mana fiends. Kai thought to himself as he continued to watch. As the arachne spiders pushed forward, their dark energy and enhanced strength began to turn the tide of battle. One sleek-looking fray, lunged at a spider, its legs aiming for a lethal strike. But the spider, unnaturally quick and agile due to its mana corruption, dodged with ease and retaliated with a vicious swipe of its legs. The fray staggered back, momentarily stunned, but before it could recover, another spider was already on top of it, using its powerful legs to pin the fray to the ground. The fray snarled and thrashed, its muscles rippling with effort as it tried to break free, but the spider''s grip was too strong. Black lines of dead mana pulsed through the spider''s chitin. The fray''s legs scrabbled against the cavern floor, desperate to find purchase, but it was no use. The spider reared back, ready to deliver a fatal bite with its venomous fangs. Kais mind raced with questions. How had these spiders become mana fiends? Was the brood mother involved, or was there something even darker lurking in the depths of this forest? But he didnt have time to dwell on these thoughts. The frays were losing ground, and if he didnt act now, they would be wiped out. With a swift glance at his companions, Kai barked a command. "Were going in! Help the frays before its too late! They are the feline creatures fighting against the spiders." Without waiting for a response, Kai leapt from the ledge, his hand already moving to summon his mana. As he fell through the air, he channelled his mana, feeling the familiar heat build in his chest. With a sharp exhale, he thrust his hand forward, releasing a wave of flaming fury. The fire roared to life, a brilliant orange blaze that shot across the cavern like a comet. The flames slammed into the spider that was about to strike the pinned fray. The fiend shrieked as the fire engulfed it, its chitinous armour cracking and splitting under the intense heat. The flames spread quickly, licking up the spider''s legs and curling around its body. In a matter of moments, the creature was reduced to a smouldering husk, twitching as the last vestiges of life left its charred form. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 110. Dead mana spiders Though these questions rang heavily in his ears, Kai knew he couldnt afford to dwell on them. That was a mystery for another time when the beasts he wanted for aid weren''t on the brink of dying. For now, he wanted none of the arachne spiders to escape the cave alive. Therefore he quickly jumped into action. He plunged into the cavern while chanting a quick incantation. A quick scotch of light appeared in his palm before it headed towards the spiders putting them into a frenzy. He didnt wait for their reaction. Simultaneously, he wove a third-circle wind spell, slicing through their ranks with razor-sharp gusts. The fiery inferno and cutting winds worked in tandem, leaving charred and dismembered spider carcasses after. In the middle of the chaos Kai created, Gareth and Ronan flanked him, ruthless eyes looking at the creatures. Gareth immediately moved with considerable accuracy, his sword flashing as he handled two spiders simultaneously. His strikes were hasty and measured, each blow landing with the intent to kill. By how his sword moved with perfected arcs, it was obvious that the training of the past two months had been effective. Ronan, on the other hand, had come a long way since he first came to Veralt. Under Kais guidance, he had not only refined his skills but had also mastered area-of-effect spells, thanks to an upgraded spell structure. With him being a part of the guerrilla team, he had also gotten considerable experience of beasts and his progress was evident as he stood firm in the cave, his stance confident and presence commanding. With a sharp, focused shout, Ronan called upon the wind. The air around him shifted to cackling energy as he gathered the mana, shaping it with precision. Then, with a swift motion of his hands, he unleashed a powerful gale. The wind roared to life. The spiders were caught in the onslaught, their brittle legs struggling to anchor them as the gusts of wind slammed into their bodies. The force of the spell was overwhelming, sending the creatures tumbling backwards smashing into the walls, their shrieks drowned out by the howling wind. Behind them, the other two hunters Lena and Jarek nocked their arrows, drawing their bows. Each release sent deadly arrows embedding into spider eyes and joints, making them vigorously move as the life drained from their body. The fray, initially thrown off by Kais sudden arrival, quickly understood that he was against the spiders and hadn''t attacked any of their kind. Realising that was a big boost to their morale and they quickly surged forward, helping them. Kai ignored their shift of behaviours as he looked at the remaining fiends and stood alone amidst a writhing swarm of spiders, his expression calm yet focused. The sight itself was enough to bring someone''s guts out because of the horror. He counted a dozen spiders, their eight-legged bodies scuttling with unnerving speed. Each spider had grown in strength, their mandibles clacking, fangs dripping with venom, and snarling making noises to assert domination over the situation. He didnt waste a second before raising his hands to cast a [Firestorm Sweep], a third-circle spell that literally swept across the cave floor like a tsunami. They all hissed and screeched, their bodies engulfed in flames. He followed it right after with another spell: spectral chains blazing with the fire burst from his hands, snaking through the air before coiling around the surviving fiends. With a tug, he yanked them into the blaze of his previous spell that was still firing up like a circle around them and saw how their limbs twitched and burnt. His mana surged again, and he summoned the final blow. Drawing in a deep breath, he cast a spell for a torrent of scorching [Dragon Fire], the heat so intense it turned the stone beneath him molten. The remaining spiders were reduced to ash in an instant. Beside him, the biggest fray in the cavern a towering beast with white fur rushed forward, picking off the ones still writhing in the flames. With each swipe of the claws that extended from its legs, he ended their suffering, leaving nothing but lifeless Itss. It''s size was enough for Kai to deduce his identity to be the fray king, and the additional glowing red lines that went around its neck in a unique pattern akin to a necklace confirmed it. In fray culture, more lines typically were the sign of strength and only the strongest can lead them. He shifted his eyes from the fray ling. Most of the spiders lay dead or were in the middle of it. A few tried to escape, skittering toward the shadows. Ronan was ready for them, his eyes narrowing as he muttered an incantation. A surge of energy radiated from him, expanding into an area-of-effect spell that ensnared the fleeing creatures in a web of shimmering wind, halting their escape. Gareth didnt waste a second. With a swift, lethal swing of his blade, he cut through the captured spiders. As the last spider fell, Kai let out a long sigh, surveying the cave surrounding. The floor was littered with the remains of the fiends, their bodies twisted and burnt. The stench of dead mana hung heavy in the air, a foul miasma that clung to his senses. He could feel the taint of corruption emanating from their bodies, an unsettling reminder of what they had become. Fiends, Kai muttered under his breath, his brow furrowing in thought. He had no idea how the spiders had turned into mana fiends, nor how deep the corruption went. It was a mystery that threatened to mess up his plans, forcing him to rethink his strategies and recalibrate his approach. But time was a luxury he did not have. As his thoughts raced, Kai became aware of the eyes upon him. The frays were watching curiosity, fear, and something else he couldnt quite place reflected in their eyes. They seemed to be waiting for something, their postures tense and expectant. The fray king stepped forward, his massive form dwarfing the others. He raised his head and let out a guttural howl, a sound that reverberated through the walls and sent a shiver down Kais spine. The howl was meant for his kin, a call to attention. Then, in broken common, he addressed Kai. Human Who you the fray king rumbled, his voice like gravel rolling down a mountainside. Why you help frays? Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The words were halting, the grammar fractured, but the intent was clear. Kai blinked, taken aback by the fray king''s ability to speak the common tongue. The diary from Hendricks had indicated they communicated through guttural sounds and gestures, using a rudimentary form of sign language. But this was different. It seems like in the last few decades they have learned quite a lot of things. He didn''t know how, but it was a relief to know they could converse directly. This would make things much simpler. "I''m the Lord of Veralt," Kai said, trying to keep his tone steady and respectful. "I came here seeking the aid of the powerful frays against the brood mother''s charge. Thats why I helped you with the spiders, our common enemies!" The fray king''s eyes narrowed, his expression unreadable. For a moment, the cave was silent except for the distant crackle of burning spider remains. Then, he leaned closer, his voice a low growl. "You fight against brood mother?" "Yes," Kai confirmed, nodding confidently. "I wish to kill her and save the forest from her corruption." The fray king considered this, his gaze intense as he studied Kai. Finally, he nodded in a slow, deliberate motion. "You honourable. But the spider gains new power. Rotten power. Not easy." Kai frowned, sensing the gravity in the fray king''s words. Was he talking about dead mana? If it was so, then it would confirm his suspicions on how the spiders had turned into fiends. "What do you mean?" He asked, probing into it. The fray king glanced around as if the shadows themselves might be listening. His voice dropped to a whisper, gravelly and foreboding. "Dangerous now. Alive yet dead. Seeks power of death to corrupt. Makes servants stronger. Scary. Spiders get stronger every time come to make us submit." Kai bit his lips. That all but confirmed it. The fray king''s sentences were broken, but they hinted towards dead mana. The brood mother becoming a mana fiend was a reality that was like a slap on all of his plans. The power it yielded wouldnt just affect itself but also everyone, and although Kai wanted nothing more than to investigate more about it, he needed to get the frays on his side first. Fortunately, they understood the threat of the brood mother. "The power she has now will affect everyone human and fray alike if its not stopped. But for that, I need your cooperation and I am willing to offer a gift in exchange for your help. Come together with my city, Veralt and we will end the brood mother for once and all." The fray king''s ears twitched, interest flickering in his eyes. "Gift?" He repeated, tilting his head. "What gift you bring?" Kai gestured to the hunters to bring forward the bags they were carrying. Jarek and Lena quickly obeyed, pulling a large satchel from their back. They stepped forward, kneeling before the fray king and carefully unfastened the bag''s leather straps. With a swift motion, they tipped the bag open, letting the contents spill out. A flow of small, glittering stones tumbled to the ground, catching the light in a dazzling display. The entire cave seemed to shimmer as if stars had fallen to earth. The frays erupted in noise, their guttural voices rising in a chorus of awe and excitement. Their eyes widened, fixed on the sparkling pile before them. Kai couldnt help but smile at their reaction. In Hendricks diary, the old explorer had written about the frays'' love for shiny objects, mentioning that it was the only way he had managed to get close to them in the first place. He had bartered his way into their good graces with trinkets and baubles, and now Kai was doing the same. Of course, these werent real jewels but rather finely crafted counterfeits, designed to mimic the brilliance of true diamonds. Still, they shone just as brightly, and that was enough to captivate the frays. The fray king raised a hand, a silent command for his kin to quiet down. The noise subsided almost instantly, replaced by a tense silence filled with anticipation. He looked down at the pile of "diamonds," his gaze thoughtful, then nodded in approval. Shiny very good, the fray king grunted, a hint of satisfaction in his gravelly voice. He turned his gaze back to Kai. We be there. When brood mother attack. We fight. No like the spider either. Our duty to rid forest of such creatures. A wave of relief washed over Kai at the fray king''s words. With their cooperation, he had secured a powerful ally against the brood mother. "Thank you," he said earnestly. "Together, we''ll rid the forest of this corruption." As the fray king gestured for his people to gather the diamonds, Kai couldnt help but feel satisfied. He had gained the support of the frays, but he was also starkly aware of the magnitude of the challenge ahead. The mention of "rotten power" and "alive yet dead" had confirmed his worst fears. They werent just up against a formidable beast but a Grade 6 mana fiend, an abomination steeped in dead mana. His mind raced, calculating the odds. With their current preparations and the men at his disposal, there was no way they could stand against such a powerful entity. Not without more strength, more allies, and a better understanding of what they were truly facing. Kai inhaled deeply at that thought. Fate truly had a way of throwing a wrench into his plans. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 111. Beast wave (1) Kais footsteps muffled due to the grass beneath him, his thoughts coming down on him like heavy rain. He felt the weight of his worries shifting between his shoulder blades too strong and heavy to ignore. The frays cave expedition had gone well at least, by any objective measure. He had secured what they needed, ensuring they got an additional ally in their battle against the beasts. Yet, a gnawing unease clung to him, making it feel like no preparation would ever be enough. His expression must have betrayed him. The guerrilla team who had returned with him gave him a wide berth, whispering to each other but leaving him in silence. No one dared ask questions. Sarch* The ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Entering the castle, Kai wasted no time. His body ached for rest, but his mind demanded solitude more. As he strode down the hallway, the flickering torches lining the walls barely registered in his peripheral vision. Then, he heard rushed footsteps. Lord Arzan! Killians voice rang out. He wasnt alone. Claire shadowed him. But it was the knight who spoke. Lord Arzan, a moment? Kai paused, turning toward them and giving him a nod despite wanting nothing more than to talk about it later. A group of barbarians arrived Ragnar and a few others. Theyre asking for you, want to know everything about the beast wave" Killian''s words trailed off, his eyes narrowing. Kai was sure that the man noticed the way his jaw clenched and the shadows under his eyes. It wasnt like him to look this strained. Kai exhaled heavily, his voice low. Take care of it for me. If youre busy, ask Francis. Of course, but... Killian hesitated, concern flickering across his face. Is everything alright? You said you were going to get beasts to fight for us, right? Kai gave a nod, almost mechanical. That part went as planned. But theres something else. His eyes darkened, the worry etched deeper than before. Call a meeting in the evening No, in one hour. Everyone is important scouts, mercenaries, guerrilla team heads, the whole lot. We have something urgent to discuss. Tell the scouts to report if they have found any signs of rot and decay in parts of the forest or the beasts. Killian straightened, sensing the gravity of his tone and the look in his eyes. Understood. And for now Just give me some space. Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel, disappearing deeper into the castle, where the growing storm in his mind raged unseen. Kai drifted through the hallway, each step a blur. He wasnt even sure when hed reached his room, but the moment he entered, he collapsed onto the bed without hesitation. The cool fabric beneath him did little to ease the turmoil in his mind. Faces of the spiders flashed behind his eyelids. Their dark mana swirling, stronger than anything he had anticipated. The stench of corrupted mana the movements of the spiders. There had been no time to adapt, no chance to form a new plan. With the necromancer back in the Vasper Forest, he had thought of it as a one-off event, but then Actra had turned into a demonic creature and now the beast wave that was allegedly perpetrated by his brother had a mana fiend leading the charge. It couldn''t just be a coincidence. He had gotten clues before, but he had never been able to piece it together. He could say that he never had the time to do so and he indeed has tried, but all of it felt like excuses. If things continued like this, Kai was bound to fail again, that piece of information was suffocating. And that made him feel helpless amidst the thousands of people waiting and looking up to him as their saviour A gentle shake snapped him out of his spiralling thoughts. His eyes flew open, focusing on Claire standing by his bedside. He blinked, realising with some embarrassment that he hadnt even noticed her coming in. Claire? His voice was rough, strained from the mental exhaustion. What are you doing here? Her eyes softened. Lord Arzan. I came because well, it looked like something was eating away at you. As your personal maid, I couldnt just ignore it. And though this might be overstepping my bounds She hesitated for a moment but pressed on. You can always talk to me. Kai stared at her. There was no judgment in her gaze, just quiet concern. For a brief moment, the storm inside him stilled. Kai smiled faintly at Claires words, a small break in the storm raging within him. With a sigh, he sat up, his elbows resting on his knees as he stared at the ground. Its just He hesitated, then let the words flow. No matter how much I try, something always comes up to ruin everything. It feels like the worlds stacked against me. With the beast wave, I prepared everything, made sure no stone was left unturned, because... I have the responsibility of everyone here. But now, Im not sure. It feels like Im walking into a battle I cant win. He paused, clenching his fists, trying to hold back the emotions threatening to spill over. The worst part is... I cant show this to anyone. If the soldiers see me like this, itll crush their morale. If the people see me like this, theyll lose hope the same hope I gave them every day by leading the preparations. Claire stood in silence, absorbing his words. A silence descended between them as she looked down upon him and finally, her lips parted. I dont understand all your troubles, Lord Arzan. I follow you everywhere, but Ive never felt the weight you do. I do know youve done incredible things in the past, even if it came with pressure. Youve always succeeded in the things you do. My mother used to say we cant control everything in our lives, but we can grab onto what we can to make things better. Kai glanced at her, letting her continue. Ive never cared for a whole city like you, but I have looked after my brothers, she said. They depend on me. And there have been many times I felt like I wasnt able to do enough for them. But I just kept moving forward. New paths always opened up, even when I didnt expect them to. It wasn''t always pleasant. It wasn''t like the paths gave me no new difficulties, but I had no way of turning back. I thought of it as the purpose of my life to care for my family. She shifted her weight, suddenly looking a little sheepish. I know Im not much help in all this, but... I believe in you, Lord Arzan. Youre doing your best, and Im sure a path will show itself for you too. Kai stared out the window for a long moment, her words sinking in. Maybe it wasnt the solution he was looking for, but talking to Claire just letting his emotions out had released some of the tension gripping his chest. He felt lighter, even if only a little. Maybe, just maybe, he didnt need to have all the answers right now. He looked back at Claire, who stood quietly, waiting, her presence a calming reassurance. Your mother was wise, he said quietly. Then, after a pause, he replied. I do have a path... but it might harm me. Not now, but eventually. And I dont know if theres anything else that can save us. He glanced down at his hands, flexing his fingers. Ive been wondering whether I should take it or not. But... maybe this is the path fate has decided for me. Another sigh escaped him, the burden still pressing down. Shaking his head slightly, he pushed it aside for now. Claire, he said, looking up at her. Get me some fresh clothes. I cant show up to the meeting like this. He gestured to the streaks of dried blood on his robe from the spiders he fought before. Claires eyes briefly grazed over his clothes, taking in the stains with a silent nod. Right away, Lord Arzan. As she left the room, Kai ran a hand through his hair, feeling the tension return. He had a meeting to face a gathering of Enforcers, scouts, and Mages looking to him for answers. And all he could think about was the choice he had to make. A choice that might save them from the beast wave but was he ready to pay such a cost? He didn''t know, but it was the path he chose. *** The room was filled with a lot of people, tension gripping everyone as they glanced at each other while waiting for the meeting to start. The Blackwood men alongside Knight Darian sat in the middle, their indifferent expressions betraying no emotion. The Mages stood near the corner, quietly discussing among themselves, while Balen, the massive minotaur blacksmith, leaned against the far wall, arms crossed over his chest, his eyes alert. Orion sat straight-backed, his hands resting on the table in front of him, representing the alchemists. Francis and Killian were seated together alongside the other Enforcers, while the red-haired mercenary, Kellen, representing the hired forces, fiddled with a dagger. The scouts, lean and sharp-eyed, sat at the very back. Kai entered, clean robes replacing the bloodied garments he had worn earlier. His presence instantly commanded attention as the room quietened, all eyes turning toward him. He stood at the head of the table, his gaze sweeping over those gathered. Lets start the meeting, he said, looking over everyone before stopping at the scouts. What do you have for me? Phillips, the hunter who had been one of the founding members of the scouting team spoke up. Lord Arzan, weve scouted the beasts'' territories as ordered. No sign of anything unusual other than the things we have already reported. All the beasts we encountered were normal. No signs of decay or any change in them. Typical for this time of year. And the deeper areas? Near the brood mothers territory? The scout shook his head. We didnt venture far enough to face the spiders. Our orders were to observe, not engage. And it''s too dangerous to venture that deep even with the Mages from the guerrilla team. But from what weve seen, theres no sign of corruption in the beasts weve come across. Kai absorbed this, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. So, its safe to assume not everything in the beast wave has been corrupted by dead mana. For now, it seems to be limited to the spiders, but if we dont stop the wave, it could spread to all the species. A murmur rippled through the room, some of the men exchanging uneasy glances. Dead mana? What exactly does that mean? And are you saying these beasts are turning into mana fiends? I haven''t come across such creatures before. Darian asked the question while leaning forward. His eyes darted around the table but fixated on Kai at the end. Kai took a deep breath, steadying himself before explaining further. Dead mana, he began, is exactly what it sounds like mana that has lost its natural properties and gained a corruptive force. You can think of it as the mana used by necromancers and weavers. Its the most destructive type of mana, even stronger than elemental flames. It can increase the strength of any creature that comes into contact with it, but... it also robs them of their minds. He let his words hang in the air for a moment, seeing the unease ripple through the room. Higher-level beasts, he continued, are less likely to lose themselves completely. But they still become more aggressive. Their instincts, their hunger they all become sharper, deadlier. Klan, representing the Archine Tower Mages, shifted nervously before speaking up. So... you''re saying the spiders are going to be even more powerful than they were before? Kais expression darkened, and he gave a slow nod. I confirmed it myself. The normal spiders have already risen a grade in strength. Theyre far more dangerous than when I first encountered them. Normally, corrupted fiends go through physical changes, even developing new abilities or attacks. But there hasnt been enough time to study them thoroughly. For now, we can only expect them to be much stronger. A murmur spread through the room once again. Their eyes widened in alertness. Some sighed and shared their worries with the person next to them. Kai silently watched how they reacted to this piece of information. Kellen, leaning forward, narrowed his eyes and questioned, halting the whispers of the room. And how are we supposed to deal with that? If the spiders have grown that much stronger, whats the plan? Were going through with the plan as usual. Theres no time to change anything now. Weve already laid out our defences, set up our response teams, and prepared for the worst. We have a sizable force, and were ready to hold the line. But the brood mother? Feroy asked, his voice filled with concern. How do we stop her? Kais jaw tightened. I have a way, he said slowly, but the chances of it working are slim. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 112. Beast wave (2) During the meeting, Kai took the time to explain everything what he planned to do next, who needed to do what, and how it could go both ways. Some of them widened their eyes, but almost everyone stayed silent, calmly listening to his plan. No one objected to it and it wasn''t because they all believed the plan would work. There were apprehensions as with any other plan, but Kai was the one leading the charge, and none had better ideas. In the end, Kai dismissed the group, each sent to handle their specific tasks before the beast wave could break down onto them. The next day, as expected, the scouts returned with bleak news: the beasts were on the move. Theyd be at the citys doorstep by dawn the next day, and the tension inside the castle was so thick it could be cut with a rusty sword. Outside of it, the murmur of the news spread like cracks in glass, splintering in every direction. Guards stiffened, Mages checked their spell structures again and again, Balen did a final check of the mana cannons, and the once steady pace of preparation now echoed with chaos and a harsh pulse of urgency. The entire time, theyd been preparing, training, fortifying but now, the final act was about to begin. It was in fact, no longer just a looming threat; it would soon become a reality, hitting them right where itd hurt. Kai had seen it coming. When hed first scouted the frays cave and seen the unnatural number of spiders, he knew that the beast would be starting their charge. Which was also part of the reason why internally, hed been spiralling. The cave incident was the brood mother making her one final, desperate move, a full-blown effect to either annihilate the frays or bend them to its will, and Kai didnt let it succeed with either. He shouldve been on the wall already, barking orders, overseeing the defence as he planned as everyone expected, but there was something far more pressing something he needed to do before the first claw or fang reached the territory, attempting to breach the citys defences. The brood mother wasnt just another mana fiend. It was a Grade 6 flesh of destruction. Its power was monstrous, a peak existence in the beast world. And as much as Kai prided himself on his knowledge, his battle strategies, and his prepared arsenal, there was one glaring problem; raw strength. He didnt have enough of it. Not yet. He knew he needed to fix that. Fast. And there was only one way to do so. His mind flashed to an old story, one hed heard a long time ago about a Third Circle Mage trapped in a ruin, surrounded by hundreds of fiends with no way out. The Mage had been faced with a choice; die like a rat or take a risk so dangerous it was almost suicidal. Desperation had led him to conjure up a technique, one designed to artificially push his mana heart beyond its limits. For the next ten minutes, he had become the strongest Mage in the world, raising his powers to the fifth circle in a flash. But with that power came a price his body couldnt withstand the strain. He burned through his mana like wildfire, and once the flames died down, so did he. It was a cautionary tale from Kai''s era, one that was still murmured about in Mage towers, though the technique itself had long since been studied and refined. But the lesson remained the same: power comes with a cost. And if Kai used it, there would still be a backlash. His heart drummed in his chest as he calculated the risks. The modification would allow him to temporarily include a Fourth Circle in his Mana heart, vastly increasing his mana capacity and spell strength. But he wouldn''t be able to hold it for long. The backlash would come. It was only a question of how severe. At best, he might regress, losing a circle or two. At worst, the backlash could cripple him permanently. But he had already made up his mind and was confident that the worst wouldn''t come into play. Confidence surged through him not the overblown arrogance of youth, but the tempered resolve of someone who had prepared for failure as much as for victory. He could recover from the consequences. He always had. And after weighing the risks, the decision had practically made itself. Especially when there were so many lives at stake, waiting for him to The night before the beast wave, Kai spent hours in quiet preparation. The mana diagrams sketched across his desk, glowing softly under the dim lamplight, were the blueprint of what he was about to do. Normally, advancing to the Fourth Circle required expanding the realm within ones heart, making space for the new circle. But time wasnt a luxury he had anymore. So instead of doing it the right way, he would suppress his current circles and force the Fourth Circle to manifest, even if just temporarily. He wouldnt be as powerful as a true Fourth Circle Mage, but it would give him the mana pool he needed to use spells potent enough to kill the brood mother. His fingers traced the lines of the diagram one last time when he felt he had done enough research to begin the procedure. His eyes flickered to the window, where the first rays of dawn were just beginning to peek over the horizon. Kai, who walked inside his room, inhaled deeply, rethinking each step of the process he had made through the night. Without wasting another second, Kai walked inside and sat cross-legged in the centre of the room, closed his eyes, and started to calm his raging pulse. He needed his mind and body to be at peace to begin focusing on the mana circles. Therefore, slowly, he let the outer world fade away into obsidian. His mind travelled towards his body, focusing on threads of mana running inside his veins. His Mana heart pulsed with power, but he knew the strength within was insufficient for the battle ahead. Suppressing his circles was like performing surgery on a beating heart frail, perilous, and fraught with the risk of failure. The pocket space inside him was tight, a realm of its own but still bound by limits, and expanding it wasnt an option. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. As he concentrated, the mana within his chest swirled restlessly, a tangible pressure building as he started to compress his first circle. He could feel a faint but insistent tremor radiating from his core a sign of resistance. The sensation was like an unseen hand squeezing his heart, each circle pressing down with increasing force. His breathing grew shallow as the internal tension escalated, the pressure building with a speed faster than he expected that the chill went down to his toes. As he carefully suppressed the first circle, a sharp tremor coursed through his chest. His Mana heart shuddered, resisting the change. He moved to the second circle, pushing it down, folding it into itself. With each step, the shaking grew worse, and he could feel the tension building, like a coiled spring on the verge of snapping. His heart felt like it was constricting, but he didnt stop. He let his mana swirl until it knew no end but to push the circle further. Kai winced in pain, but let it go, not giving it more than a fleeting glance. The third circle was the hardest. As he repressed it, the pressure in his chest surged, and his Mana heart pulsed erratically, threatening to tear apart under the strain. It was a battle, not just of magic, but of will. Inside him, he felt a persistent voice of doubt, like an insistent critic whispering that he should give up and walk away. The internal struggle was there a big rock, a nagging presence trying to make him question his decision. But his will, his decision, like a stubborn guardian, refused to back down. Sweat began to form on his brow as the pocket space finally yielded, creating just enough room. Now came the real test. Kai inhaled deeply, drawing in mana from the air around him, pulling it into the freshly created void in his heart. The Mana surged into him, filling the space and swirling in circles. His hands clenched into fists as he began to shape it further, moulding the mana into the form of a fourth circle. It wasnt natural his body resisted, and a sharp, stabbing pain shot through his chest. With each pulse of mana, the pain grew, but so did the power. The fourth circle was forming, he could feel it. His body trembled, his heart threatening to give out under the pressure, but after what felt like an eternity, the fourth circle snapped into place. Power coursed through him raw, untamed, and overwhelming. For a moment, he felt invincible, like the very air around him bent to his will. But as quickly as the rush came, it left him drained. His back gave up, and he collapsed to the floor, gasping for air, his body slick with sweat. The fourth circle was there, but so was the looming threat of backlash. Kai lay there, breath ragged, knowing that the real battle had yet to begin. *** Kai gulped down the water that he had right next to him the entire time, his throat dry and his chest still aching from the strain of forcing the fourth circle into place. Not a lot of time had passed, maybe twenty minutes since he established the temporary fourth circle. He tried to steady his breathing along with his shaky hands, but the sharp screech of a beast tore through the air outside, yanking him back to reality. His heart raced not from the strain of mana this time, but from the realisation that the beast wave had arrived! He shot to his feet, his body still shaky but his mind sharp. He rushed to wear off his enchanted leather armour and put up the cloak from the Archine Tower on top of it for more protection. As the cloak swirled around him, he slid the ring imbued with a defensive spell onto his finger. Lastly, the spear that Balen had worked on enchanted and masterfully crafted, was strapped to his back. With a swift motion, he threw open the window and leapt out, landing using [Featherfall] before sprinting through the castle grounds toward the walls. The cold morning air stung his face, but he barely noticed it with the mana surging through his veins. As he pushed himself forward with the wind, he realised how much stronger he had gotten in just a night. As he neared the wall, he sensed the emanating tension from everyone surrounding it. Guards and Mages scrambled into position, and the moment they saw him, the atmosphere shifted. Lord Arzan, youre finally here! someone shouted, their voice tinged with relief. Kai didnt stop. He moved, weaving through the crowd of Enforcers until he found Killian rushing up to him. The mans face was grim, but there was a spark of hope in his eyes now that Kai had arrived. Glad you are here in time, Killian said, his words clipped and urgent. You need to see this. Together, they turned to face the wall. Beyond it, in the distance, the first silhouettes of the beasts emerged from the fog. Giant, grotesque forms, both twisted and threatening, their forms barely visible in the dawn light. But they were coming hundreds of them, their growls and screeches echoing louder with every passing second. Kai clenched his fist as saw the beasts. Then, he raised his voice, clear and commanding, cutting through everyones screams, protests and worries. "Everyone, get ready! The beasts are here!" - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 113. Beast wave (3) The people standing by the walls trembled with unease as a growing shadow loomed on the horizon. From the heights of the citys fortifications, the Mages, Enforcers, guards, mercenaries, and the other significant people who were participating in the battle, watched in terror for creatures, their forms barely discernible, emerged from the distant tree line of the forest that bordered the City of Veralt. The only things they saw were how the trees shook violently and blurry figures moving aimlessly toward them.The ground trembled beneath their advance, their rumbled, throaty, menacing cries filling the air as they moved like a flood toward the citys walls. The defenders stood tense, their eyes fixed on the horizon. Horns rang out from on top of the wall, their low, resonant blasts cutting through the tension. The warning spread through the city like wildfire. Every inhabitant knew what it meant: the beasts had arrived, including Kai, who stood at the forefront, eyes scanning the waves of creatures that started to spill from the hills. The men behind him whispered in hushed, anxious voices. Theres so many, Talon, one of the new enforcers Kai had found, murmured, disbelief colouring his tone. "Some of these... never seen anything like ''em," Lyra added, her face pale. Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Even Killian, ever calm in the face of danger, looked uneasy. He squinted at the approaching horde before turning to Kai. "Theres more than we expected," he muttered, his voice low but tense. Kai didnt blink. "It''s no big deal. Our defences will be more than enough to handle most of them... except the brood mother." His words carried an air of certainty, though a subtle edge of caution lingered beneath. Killian gave a short nod, but his eyes appeared heavy with concern. You alright? I can feel the mana rolling off you, he asked. Obviously, anyone who walked by Kai could notice the extreme mana that emanated from his body. Even if they couldn''t sense mana, they would feel a distinct pressure coming from him. Im fine, Kai replied firmly. Lets focus on the beasts for now. Kais gaze shifted over the guards manning the walls, their faces drawn with tension. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward and raised his voice, loud enough to carry across the line. "Everyone," he shouted, his voice carrying over the roar of the crowd, "the beasts are finally here. But fear not. We have prepared for this moment. We are not mere men, but warriors. Trust in Veralt, and we shall not fall today!" A cheer erupted from the defenders, a defiant cry that echoed through the city. They all looked at him with fear in their eyes but it all turned to confidence as Kai met their gaze with a firm determination. He pursed his lips and raised his spear soon, the crowd imitated, lifting their own weapons and cheering themselves but it died as the snarling of the beasts grew louder. Kais eyes focused back towards the arriving beast wave, he couldnt help but notice the changing environment. He noticed how the wind howled across the city, carrying with it the scent of rain that hadnt yet arrived, how dark clouds regardless of the season weighed upon them, and how even the very air they inhaled crackled with anticipation the calm before the storm, but the storm was arriving in the distant, ceasing calmness out of existence. This calmness made the skin prickle and breath catch in the throat. He looked up once more, even the birds had long since fled, leaving only the distant rumble of the earth due to the sheer power of the beasts. He pulled himself out of the eerie surroundings and scanned the horizon with much more sanity. The first wave of beasts rushed from the tree line massive, tusked creatures with thick, bristled hides. Their black, beady eyes reflected hunger. "Boar titans," someone muttered. Each one was as large as a wheel of a cart, their muscles rippling beneath their hide, and their tusks gleamed like cruel ivory weapons ready to impale anything in their path. The boars charged. Their hooves thundered across the dirt, sending up clouds of dust. But before they could even close the distance to the walls, something unexpected happened. One of the lead boars suddenly stumbled, its footing lost, and then . An explosion rocked the field, sending chunks of earth and flesh flying in all directions. The next boar in line suffered the same fate, the ground beneath it erupting into a deadly storm of shrapnel and gore. Their thick hides, which seemed so impenetrable, were torn apart as if made of paper. Kai smirked as the people on the walls cheered. "Syphon stones are working well," Killian remarked, his eyes gleaming as he watched another explosion rip through a pack of the beasts, turning them into nothing more than a mist of blood and meat. Kai nodded. Yeah, not their true purpose, but they make for good mine bombs. He had come up with the idea after staring at the stock of syphon stones they had stored for the upcoming winter. These stones, normally used to channel and store mana, had a hidden quirk: when they reached a critical weight overload, they exploded violently. It didnt take much imagination for Kai to realise they could plant them just beneath the surface of the battlefield, turning the land itself into a trap. More explosions erupted across the field, the ground itself betraying the beasts. The boars that weren''t vaporised outright lost their footing, stumbling, only to be torn apart by another blast a moment later. Each explosion rang out with a thunderous roar, making some people jump back at the sheer force it happened. The cheers on the walls grew louder as the boars fell one by one, their massive bodies shredded before they could even get close. But not all the beasts were deterred. As their comrades were turned into bloody smears on the battlefield, the rest of the horde let out guttural, ear-piercing cries. They charged forward, undeterred by the carnage. Kai squinted his eyes as he saw it wasnt just boars. At least fifty devious trolls were moving along with the boar titans. And the mines? They continued to go off in a chain of destruction. Flesh and bone flew through the air with each deafening blast, but some of the beasts made it through. The remaining boars roared, their hooves tearing up the blood-soaked earth as they closed the distance. Archers, stationed on the wall, let loose volley after volley. The arrows werent just any ordinary projectiles each tip was dipped in a sickly green poison, made by the Alchemists team. The arrows struck true, embedding deep into the flesh of the surviving boars. The creatures roared in agony, their movements becoming sluggish as the poison coursed through their veins. Kai nodded at the elven archer, Raven who was at the front of the line and looked back at the sight in front of him when she returned the nod. But as the defenders celebrated the success of their trap, Kais sharp eyes noticed something else. Movement above, swift and deadly. "Stalker hawks," he muttered under his breath, pointing toward the sky. Sure enough, the slender forms of the aerial beasts appeared, gliding through the air with a terrifying grace. Their wings barely made a sound as they cut through the sky, and behind them were Ebonfangs, equally lethal, their bird forms contrasted by the predatory elegance of the stalkers. Ebonfangs looked questionably similar to ravens, the only difference was that they were big, had glowing red eyes, and their movements were similar to an eagle the precise agility and all that. They could easily mould into the night and kill any prey in a blink. The archers reacted swiftly, adjusting their aim upward. Arrows filled the sky, streaking toward the incoming beasts. A few Mages from the tower joined the assault, sending firebolts and mana-infused projectiles into the air. One by one, the stalkers and ebonfangs fell, their bodies spiralling to the ground, riddled with arrows or seared by fire. One of the ebonfangs, however, broke through the storm of arrows, its leathery wings straight to its side as it dove toward the wall. Its red eyes gleamed with malice as it opened its maw, showing its lined-up sharp, serrated teeth, and with a loud screech, it hurled a spiked stone from its talons. The projectile whistled through the air, aimed directly at the heart of where they all stood. Kai barely flinched. His gaze followed the stone as it slammed into the wall with a forceful thud, sending dust and debris cascading down. For a moment, silence hung in the air, and then the warded wall shimmered. Seals etched into the stone flickered, glowing with a blue light as the wards absorbed the impact. The stone crumbled harmlessly to the ground, leaving the wall unscathed. Wards are holding. "Good," Kai said to Killian. He glanced at the defenders. The archers and Mages, though shaken, quickly returned to firing at the remaining flying beasts, thinning their numbers with each passing second. But the aerial assault had rattled them, and Kai could see it in their faces. The boars may have been reduced to paste, but the real threat was still coming. The guards and Mages cheered louder with every explosion and every arrow that sent the beasts tumbling. Their confidence grew with each boar that turned to paste and each flying beast that fell from the sky. But Kai stood still, his gaze never leaving the distant horizon. The beasts attacking the walls were small fry, Grade 1s and 2s at most. He knew better than to celebrate early. No matter how many died, the mass of creatures lingering in the distance never seemed to dwindle enough to make a real difference. The real threat hadnt arrived yet. His fingers tightened around the spear as the ground began to tremble once more. This time, it wasnt the rhythmic rumbling of hooves of the boars. No, this was something much heavier, much more dangerous. His eyes narrowed, scanning the dark forms moving through the fog of attacks and mine bombs, and there they were beasts pushing forward from the rear. The ground shook violently as they approached, their massive bodies shaking the very earth with each step. The first was a behemoth, a massive elephant-like creature with dark, cracked skin Shadowrend mammoths and behind them, corrupted arachne spiders followed. The former''s flesh wasnt corrupted by dead mana, but Kai could see patches of their skin marred with darkness. These were Grade 3 beasts, but they were known to be at the very peak of that grade. The shadowrend mammoth''s tusks, thick and sharp like obsidian, gleamed in the darkening light as they stomped forward, each step shaking the world around them. Beside them, arachne spiders scuttled forward, their massive legs punching into the ground with terrifying speed. Their hulking forms glistened, covered in webs and toxins that dripped from their fangs. "Prepare for the mammoths!" Kai shouted at the top of his lungs. Hearing that, people scurried from their positions to get ready. As if on cue, the ground shook harder, and with a violent burst, the mammoths backs erupted. Massive bone-like protrusions exploded outwards, hurling deadly missiles through the air. The spears of bone hurtled toward the walls, a terrifying barrage that moved too fast for any normal defence to counter. Several slammed into the stone, creating cracks and tremors. Some guards were knocked back by the impact, and the defensive wards wavered, struggling to hold. Kai reacted in an instant, his hands moving through the air as a powerful gust of wind shot forward. His spell connected just before the next barrage of projectiles hit, redirecting their trajectory. The bone spears flew wide, missing the walls entirely and embedding themselves into the earth below. Other wind Mages quickly joined him, focusing their mana to deflect the incoming attacks. But it wasnt enough. The mammoths and spiders pushed forward, crushing through the minefield as if it were nothing. The mines exploded beneath them, but the sheer size and bulk of the beasts rendered the blasts almost useless. And then, just as they crossed the last line of defence, Kai smirked. The beasts stepped directly onto hidden cans of specialised oil oil that had been spread across the battlefield, seemingly unnoticed. The shadowrend mammoths and arachne Spiders crashed through the ground, shattering the containers and releasing the slick liquid beneath their feet. Kai could see the sheen of the oil spreading, catching on their legs as they stampeded forward. "Fire Mages! Now!" Kai roared. Flames erupted from the wall as the fire Mages, Kai included, unleashed a barrage of blazing bolts and fireballs. The moment the fire touched the oil, it ignited, a wave of flames racing across the battlefield. The roar of the fire drowned out the cries of the beasts as the flames surged over the mammoths and spiders, setting their corrupted flesh ablaze. The inferno swallowed them, and the air was filled with the sound of their agonised screeches as they thrashed in vain to escape the flames. But not all of them burned. From the chaos emerged a new threat Bladeclaw monkeys, a different breed of the spiked monkeys Kai fought before agile beasts with slick, armour-like fur that made them immune to the fire. They leapt through the flames with ease, their sharp claws tearing into the ground as they closed the distance to the walls. Behind them came others, creatures like salamanders, fire giants and inferno titans with thick armour plates or natural resistances to fire, pushing through the blaze unharmed. The strength of this wave wasnt in brute force alone; it was in their numbers and diversity. Each type of beast brought something different, a counter to the defenders efforts. Damn it, Kai muttered under his breath. He could already see the defences starting to crumble under the pressure. If they didnt act quickly, the beasts would break through. All units! Full assault! Kai ordered, his voice carrying across the wall. He glanced at the soldiers manning the mana cannons stationed at the top of the battlements. Activate the mana cannon! With a loud thrum of power, the mana cannons, the result of weeks of effort and collaboration, roared to life. Blue arcs of mana surged through the air, glowing with raw destructive energy. The first cannon fired, its beam slicing through the battlefield like a blade of pure light. It struck a pack of charging bladeclaw monkeys, vaporising them instantly. The other cannons followed suit, launching bolts of mana that tore through the advancing beasts. The entire battlefield was full of chaos now. The bladeclaw monkeys that leapt at the walls were met with a slick defence of oil, splattered over the stone by the guards. They screeched in frustration, claws scrabbling futilely as they slipped and fell back, only to be shot down by arrows or blasted by fireballs. Specific units took on their own targets, with the archers and Mages focusing on the airborne beasts. Enforcers like Killian who had mastered elemental attacks rained down lightning, obliterating groups of creatures in devastating arcs. Kai focused on Sentinel, the golem that stood on the walls and gave it a silent command. It turned towards the chaos and added to it by jumping down, holding an axe specifically made for it and cleaving through the beasts. The mana cannons boomed intermittently, and the alchemists poison-tipped arrows and explosive potions found their mark in groups of tightly packed beasts. Despite their efforts, the sheer number of enemies pressing against the defences was overwhelming. A massive troll lumbered toward the walls, its annoying figure stained with patches of blackened, corrupted flesh. It carried two enormous clubs, and with each swing, the ground seemed to quake. The wall trembled under its repeated blows, cracks forming in the stone, the protective wards crippling under the strain. Kai glanced toward Killian, who was already looking back at him, his brow furrowed. I got this, Killian said with a grim nod before leaping from the wall, lightning sparking at his fingertips and around his feet. He landed with a thud, sending out a pulse of lightning that crackled through the dirt, stunning nearby beasts. Without missing a beat, Killian charged toward the troll, his body a blur of movement. Lightning moved along his arms, and with a loud grunt, he slammed a bolt into the troll''s chest, sending it staggering backwards. He finished it with his sword in a single second before leaping onto another troll. But for every beast that fell, three more took its place. The ground was a mass of fur, scales, and claws, surging toward the wall with unrelenting force. Bran, Bord and Nelson joined the fight below, taking on the larger creatures that threatened to tear through their defences. He caught sight of Bran in the thick of it. A ring of jagged rocks clung to his back, forming an improvised shield that shifted and grew with every motion proof of how quickly he had mastered his affinity with the earth. Kai had gotten summaries from Killian on the Enforcer''s training and how they were learning to connect with their affinities, but this was beyond what he had expected. It seemed like the threat of a beast wave had pushed them harder than anything else in the world. Bran stood his ground as a mammoth barreled toward him, its tusks lowered like a battering ram. Kai felt a momentary flash of concern, but it quickly vanished as Bran made his move. The earth beneath him pulsed in response to his will, and in an instant, the rocks on his back surged outward into deadly spikes. The beasts momentum was its undoing, impaling itself with a sickening crunch as the jagged stone pierced flesh. Kais lips curled into a faint smile. "Not bad." Bran didnt stop there. The armour on its back protected him and he launched forward like a missile, charging like a beast himself and impaling several enemies with his spiked armour. Behind Bran, Kai saw Feroy joining their fight, simultaneously helping Nelson and Bord to take on massive monkeys, twice their size with flames covering his arms. He didnt waste his mana on helping the Enforcers as he knew this was something they could handle easily. Yet, even as they battled valiantly, the cracks in the walls grew deeper. He stood at the top, his eyes darting across the battlefield. He had been conserving his energy, saving his most potent spells for the brood mother, the true menace that still hadnt shown itself. His hands, though poised with readiness, remained still his strongest spell reserved. But as the waves of beasts pressed harder, he could not stand idle. Here and there, he flicked his wrist, sending precise bolts of mana toward weakened spots in the enemy lines. Each cast was quick, almost effortless a lance of wind to knock a charging beast off balance, a flicker of flame to ignite a patch of tar-soaked ground. The others held the line well, but with each passing moment, the mines buried in the field detonated less frequently, and the pungent oil reserves that had once been their lifeline now smouldered low. Above, the skies churned with the flurry of flying beasts, but one caught his eye Stalker leader. It darted through the sky with an eerie grace, its leathery wings nearly silent as they cut through the air. The creatures sleek, dark form moved with precision, eyes gleaming with predatory intent. It hovered briefly, then folded its wings, diving toward him like a living spear. Kais muscles tensed as he tracked its descent, the wind whistling in the stalkers wake. In a flash, he extended his hand, mana surging through his veins. A sharp gust of wind coalesced around his fingers, and with a flick, he sent a cutting arc of air toward the creature. The stalker banked hard, twisting its body mid-dive, narrowly avoiding the strike. But it was too late. Kai followed up with a swift, deliberate motion, and a second blade of air sliced cleanly through one of the creatures wings. The stalker leader screeched, its momentum faltering as it spiralled out of control, crashing into the ground with a bone-jarring thud. Dark blood splattered across the stone, its twisted form lying still at the base of the wall. Kai exhaled slowly, his eyes scanning the sky for more. He knew better than to relax but his breath hitched when his attention was diverted he noticed a guard fall from the walls, a projectile from a flying beast embedded in his chest. The man hit the ground with a sickening thud, and Kais stomach churned. Lena, one of the hunters who volunteered for the battle, her face twisted in fear, screamed as an arachne spider impaled her with one of its legs. The screams of the dying began to blend into the surroundings. Kai visibly flinched as that happened. But A deep crack ran down the wall near him, the stone splintering under the force of yet another heavy blow. The protective wards flickered again, struggling to hold as more trolls and monkeys slammed against the barrier. We cant hold like this, he muttered to himself, heart pounding. The defensive line was buckling under the weight of the assault, and no amount of spells or mana cannon could hold back the endless wave. His mana surged, hoping to do something when he could, but just then, a wave of rotten mana touched him. Suddenly, a piercing screech cut through the air, louder and more terrifying than anything that had come before. The sound reverberated across the battlefield, sending a shiver down Kai''s spine. His eyes widened as waves of mana reverberated through the battlefield, signalling the arrival of the beasts that had started it all. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 114. Beast wave (4) The air itself seemed to suffocate inside Kais lungs as the brood mother, Vermorga, emerged from the darkness. An arcane spider, colossal in size, its body radiated death. Streaks of black mana pulsed along her grotesque form, veins twisted with dead mana. Its carapace was a swirling mass of shadow. Wherever it moved, it looked as if the ground beneath it seemed to wilt. Kais eyes trailed down to its eight legs and numerous eyes, and images of all the deadly fiends he had battled with flashed through his eyes. The brood mother was just as terrifying. Its presence set an immediate wave of bloodthirst through the battlefield. Beasts that had been mindlessly attacking moments before now moved with a terrifying unity. Kais eyes met with the remaining boars, trolls, arsenic bears and every other species whose eyes alight with renewed fury. The sight sent cold chills down his body. The brood mother''s screech piercing, high-pitched, and filled with dark energy seemed to shatter the air. It echoed like a war cry, and the beasts around it responded immediately. The frenzy that shook the entire battlefield was everything and unsettling. Vicious, relentless. The beasts were getting harder to control. Kai saw their guards struggling as the attacks from the beasts got more violent as if something inside them stirred. He narrowed his eyes, his gaze locking onto Vermorga''s overwhelming form. His heartbeat steadied, no longer racing with panic. This was it. It was a moment of now or never. A pulse of mana surged through his veins as he assessed the battlefield. His eyes darted toward Balen, who stood near the mana cannons, filling in the atheum in the cannons before blasting groups of beasts on the ground. Balen! The minotaur turned, hearing his voice. Are the preparations ready? Balen, wiping sweat from his brow, gave a toothy grin. Aye! Just like we planned, Lord Arzan! Kai could see the confidence in his cheery words that wasnt there in the others who actively fought beasts. Kai nodded, a surge of adrenaline and mana washing over him. Everything was ready and all his plans were made just for this moment. He took one last look at the monstrous creature, it''s dark presence taking over the battlefield due to its size and the attention it commanded. "Okay, Im going in," Kai said, his voice calm despite the chaos swirling around him. His eyes narrowed, tracking the beasts on the ground. With a flick of his wrist, a blazing inferno appeared on his palms and engulfed the frontline creatures, their cries echoing in the air as they burned away to ash. But not all were so easily dispatched. A bladeclaw monkey ploughed through the flames with barely a singe. Kai grinned. Fire wouldnt work on this one. Time for a change, he thought, feeling the shift in mana around him. The air rippled, and a gust of wind slammed into the creature, knocking it off balance. Before it could regain footing, ice formed in the air, condensing into jagged spears that shot toward the monkey, freezing it mid-charge. Its body cracked, the sound of shattering ice the last thing it ever heard. Kai moved swiftly, eliminating beast after beast like that, numbers falling before him in a blur of elemental fury. Fire, wind, ice each spell carved through the tide of monsters like they were nothing more than fodder for his magic. But just as his focus zeroed in on the next wave, a flicker of movement caught his eye. He spun around, ready to unleash another spell, only to pause. Charging through the chaos, a massive army stormed the battlefield. Not ordinarily beasts They were frays. Among them, the fray king led the charge, his eyes wide as he met Kais gaze. "You..." the fray kings voice came loud, breathless with disbelief. "I didnt expect this strength power." He shook his head, a slight grin tugging at his lips. "Sorry for delay, human. We take care rest. You..." He pointed at the big brood mother far away, its ugly shape moving. "You go kill that thing." With that, the frays surged forward, their numbers overwhelming the remnants of the beast tide. Kai clenched his fists, his eyes narrowing on the massive brood. "Killian!" he called, and the knight turned from the skirmish. "Take charge!" Without waiting for a response, Kai launched himself forward, his body a blur of motion as mana surged through him. Flames erupted at his feet, propelling him toward the brood mother like a comet streaking across the sky. Wind swirled around him, amplifying his speed. The fire encasing him turned white, glowing with the intensity of starfire. It clung to him like armour, shielding him from the dark energy that radiated from the brood mothers form. As he neared it, he thrust his hands forward, releasing a concentrated blast of white flames [Fiendfire]! The brood mother screeched, its legs whipping out to spin a thick, protective web in front of it. Toxic green orbs of destruction shot from its mouth, sizzling through the air toward Kai. But his flames, unyielding, devoured them, turning its webs to ash and burning through the venomous attacks. The brood mothers numerous eyes widened in disbelief. This was not the prey it had expected. Its towering form cast a shadow across the battlefield, its eight legs plunging into the ground with every step. Its carapace, dark and slick, pulsed with dead mana that coiled around it like an aura of death. Every strike of Kais white-hot flames seemed to sear into its flesh, but no matter how deeply the fire scorched it, the wounds sealed with the same dark energy, its carapace regenerating, black lines crawling across the surface as if mocking his efforts. The brood mother''s attacks came fast, relentless. Venomous webs shot out in thick strands, burning the ground wherever they landed. Orbs of toxic energy hissed through the air, mixed with the suffocating essence of dead mana. From its back, sharp, deadly projectiles launched without warning, dark, cutting through the sky toward Kai, forcing him to weave between them in bursts of wind and flame. Kai was hyperfocused on the spiders every movement he dodged and retaliated, unleashing waves of flames that engulfed it in burning light. The brood mother suddenly stilled. Its massive eyes glinted with a knowing malice. Then, for the first time, a voice deep, clear, and dripping with spit filled the air. "Human..." the voice was a sinister whisper, but it echoed with terrifying clarity. "You are strong, but not strong enough to contest my power. Not now. Not with my newfound strength." Kai froze, his heart pounding in his chest. The creature could speak? "Why struggle?" the brood mother continued, its voice filled with a twisted calmness. "Why not surrender and kneel before me? The dead do not discriminate. It will take you too, just as it has taken countless others. In death, we are all the same." For a moment, Kais mind raced. He hadnt expected this. A beast this size, this corrupted speaking with such clarity? Although high grade beasts speaking wasnt a rare occurrence, the brood mother was a fiend and it was way harder for them to have semblance of intelligence. But he quickly shoved the shock aside. His eyes hardened, flames still dancing along his arms and legs. "If death ever takes me," Kai said, "it wont be as a servant. Not to you, not to anyone. The flames that surround me were made to devour someone like you. So don''t resist." With a powerful surge of mana, Kai raised his hands, casting [Infernal Chains]. Chains fueled by pure fire erupted from the earth beneath the brood mother, wrapping around its legs and abdomen. The chains, imbued with his will, glowed with a radiant energy, pulling the massive creature down. But the brood mother let out a blood-curdling roar, its eyes narrowing as its body convulsed. Dark energy pulsed from it, shattering the chains with raw, unrelenting force. It rose higher, venom dripping from its maw as it screeched, and the earth around it cracked under the weight of its power. The battle escalated. Finally, they both were using their maximum powers, strongest attacks and knowing the ruthlessness of fiends, Kai wasnt going to hold himself back. *** Death was everywhere Amyra looked. It lingered on the walls, clung to the ground, and swarmed in the air as beasts attacked from all directions. The scent of blood and burning flesh filled the air, mingling with the endless screeches of creatures and the cries of the wounded. She had never seen anything like this before this chaos, this destruction. But even as the horror of it washed over her, Amyra stood firm. She had resolved to be here, to take part in the battle, and to help in any way she could. There was no turning back. She scanned the battlefield from her vantage point atop the wall, her eyes catching a flash of movement one of the mercenaries, a red-haired man she recognized from before Kellen, fighting fiercely. He was mid-swing when a flying beast darted at him from the side. Its claws slashed into his leg, sending him stumbling back against the stone of the wall. He let out a pained shout, clutching his wounded leg as the beast circled for another strike. But before it could do that, an arrow took it on the head as the beast fell. Without thinking, Amyra sprinted toward Kellen. Let me help you!" she shouted, dropping to her knees beside him. Her hands hovered over his injured leg, already starting to glow as she channelled her mana, just like Kai had taught her. The basic first-circle healing spell came to her with surprising ease, as if the mana itself was guiding her hands. She had needed incantations at first, but now it was like second nature to her. [Heal] The warmth of her magic seeped into the mercenarys wounds, mending the torn muscle and tissue bit by bit. The man winced, swearing under his breath. "Fuck, that hurts," he growled. His face twisted in pain, but his gaze was sharp. "Those bastards... My own party members ran away before the fight even started. Can you believe that? Just because they werent getting paid this time" S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Amyra tried not to listen. She focused on her spell, watching as the wound slowly knitted itself back together, Kellens body relaxing slightly as the pain ebbed. "Youre going to be okay," she said calmly, pulling her hands back once the worst of the damage was repaired. "Get in one of the stretchers. The rescue team will get you to safety." The mercenary shook his head, a grim smile tugging at his lips. "Too many of those bastards are still alive out there. No way Im sitting out now." Before Amyra could protest, he pushed himself to his feet, gritting his teeth as he steadied himself. With a determined grunt, he pulled a vial that was tied around his waist and chugged it down in one go, drew his weapon and launched himself back into the fray, charging at another beast without hesitation. From what Amyra recalled, the vial contained a potion that numbed the pain. Everyone was given one to keep battling even with injuries. Amyra watched him go, her hands still tingling with the remnants of her spell. Death was all around her, but here and now, she was doing her part to push it back. She didnt linger, pushing the red-haired mercenarys determination to the back of her mind as she scanned the battlefield. Her eyes landed on Rhea, off to the left, aiding the rescue efforts in the rear just as Kai had instructed. Relief washed over Amyra, and she opened her mouth to call out to her friend. But before she could say anything, a massive shadow blotted out the sky above. A giant bird swooped down, its wings beating like thunder as it zeroed in on her position. Arrows and spells peppered the creature, but it took the hits without flinching, its beady eyes fixed on a single target. Amyras heart lurched as she realised what it was aiming for. The mana cannon. The bird let out a shrill cry and dived, crashing directly into the massive weapon. The operator scrambled back, barely avoiding the impact, but it was too late. The collision triggered a calamitous explosion. Mana crackled wildly, sending a shockwave through the air. A chunk of the wall disintegrated as the cannon blew apart, and Amyra, caught in the blast, felt herself being thrown into the chaos below. As she plummeted, the wind howled in her ears and panic seized her. She was falling, straight into the heart of the battle. Death was going to consume her too. But just before she hit the ground, something caught her midair. A familiar, heavy presence wrapped arms around her. Her eyes flew open, and she gasped, "Sentinel!" Sentinel, large and battered, stood beneath her, its hands cradling her gently. It had been fighting valiantly, its stone body cracked and chipped, pieces of it missing. But even in its damaged state, it hadnt faltered. It gently set her down, then turned back toward the battlefield with no hesitation, charging into a group of beasts as if the damage to its body meant nothing. Amyra collapsed to the ground, momentarily stunned. She sat there, amidst the chaos, her breath ragged as she watched the battle continue around her. Beasts clashed with Enforcers, guards, and frays in every direction. Blood and mana filled the air, and fear gripped her heart. She had never felt so small, so utterly out of control. She scrambled to her feet, instinctively trying to find a way back to safety. But everywhere she looked, there was only death and destruction. Monsters of different kinds, features, ugly faces, bloodied limbs were trying to kill whatever was in front of them. Her hands trembled as panic set in, her feet refusing to move. Amyra! Knight Killians voice cut through the chaos, and she turned to see him rushing toward her, his face flushed with concern. "Are you okay?" She blinked at him, still shaking. "Yes Im fine. Sentinel My golem it saved me." Killian gave a quick nod, scanning the area. "Lord Arzan programmed it to save anyone it could and kill beasts. Its been a big help." His voice was calm, but his eyes were sharp. "Stay behind me. Ill protect you." But before he could even finish his sentence, a spine-chilling sound filled the air a clattering of legs moved swiftly around them. Both of them turned their heads, eyes wide, as a dozen corrupted spiders charged toward them. The beasts carapaces were covered in black lines, radiating the unmistakable stench of dead mana. Their many eyes glinted with malevolence, and their fangs dripped with poison. Amyras blood ran cold as her eyes locked on the fiends. Her voice barely came out as a whisper. "Fiends they found me here too." The spiders rushed closer, their legs tearing up the ground, the smell of decay overwhelming her but not more than her memories. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 115. Beast wave (5) Amyras breath caught as a vision seized her mind, unbidden. In it, a monstrous figure hovered after her, its massive body covered in dark, vein-like streaks pulsating with hostile energy, reminiscent of the twisted spiders that inched closer towards them. Screams echoed all around her, distant but deafening, blending with the chaotic roar of battle. Her feet stumbled backwards as a tremor shot through her body. She barely suppressed a shudder, her hand instinctively gripping the hilt of a dagger she carried for safety. In front of her, Killian was a blur of motion. The spiders lunged, shooting webs and venom in every direction, but Killian met them with crackling bolts of lightning. His technique flashed through the battlefield like a thunderstorm arcs of blue light danced off his fingertips, splitting the air and finding their mark in the spiders'' abdomens. Each strike hit with surgical precision, exploiting their weak points, as his speed kept him out of their grasp. Despite the overwhelming numbers, he seemed to thrive in the chaos, dodging their flailing legs and retaliating with relentless strikes. Amyras gaze wavered, her hands trembling. She stood rooted to the spot, her chest heaving with shallow breaths. She wanted to run everything in her screamed to flee. But the cold stone of the wall pressed into her back, trapping her. Her eyes darted around, searching for an escape, but everywhere was engulfed in battle. Ahead, the mana cannons roared, obliterating clusters of enemies in blinding flashes, while Enforcers and Mages tore through the remaining creatures. Even the frays fought bravely alongside them, their claws drenched in the blood of the beast tide. No one noticed her. No one had time for her. Her heart sank as she glanced skyward. The storm above raged Kai''s flames clashed violently with the dark energy coming off from the brood mother, Vermorga. The battlefield''s very air felt alive with the destruction approaching the walls. , she realised, the bitter truth settling in. Killian glanced back at Amyra, his voice tight but reassuring. "Dont worry. Ive got this." He spun, his sword slicing through two spiders with swift arcs of lightning. But then a legthick and fastslashed through his shoulder, and before he could react, another spider barreled into him. The impact sent him crashing into the wall with a sickening thud. Amyra''s heart leapt into her throat. "Killian!" she screamed, rushing to his side, her hands glowing with weak, flickering mana. She pressed them to the gash on his shoulder, trying desperately to heal the wound, but her first-circle spell was barely enough to close small cuts, let alone something this deep. Her fingers shook as she poured everything she had into the spell, her voice trembling with whispered incantations, but the wound was too large. The blood kept pouring. Killian groaned, struggling to rise, but his body wouldnt cooperate. The spiders closed in, their deformed forms surrounding them, pincers clacking in unison as if in some twisted celebration. Amyra froze, fear rooting her in place as her breath hitched in her throat. Killian, wincing in pain, tried to shove her behind him. "Amyra, move!" His voice was strained. "I... I can still fight." But his limbs betrayed him. His injuries were too severe, and the spiders pressed forward, hungry for their victory. One of the creatures hissed, launching a web that struck Killian, pinning him against the wall. He let out a shout and moved to break off the webs, but they didn''t even shake. His arms were bound, and no amount of struggling could break the sticky threads. The spiders screeched at that, their eyes gleaming as they closed in. Killians head lolled to the side, meeting Amyras terrified gaze. "Run... Save yourself. Dont" he gasped, his voice desperate. "Dont stay for me. Go!" Her eyes welled with tears as she shook her head violently. "How can I run? I dont want to leave you!" The words barely escaped her lips, her voice cracking under her fear and helplessness. At that moment, another memory flashed through her mind voices yelling at her to run, the faces of those she''d abandoned before moving like ghosts. But before she could react, another spider reared up, its mouth glowing with dark energy, venom swirling with deathly mana. The creatures aim was fixed, and it fired straight at Killian, ready to finish him off. Without thinking, Amyra threw herself in front of him, her body acting on pure instinct. The venom splashed across her chest, seeping into her skin like molten poison. Killians eyes widened in horror. "What are you doing?! Thats venom mixed with dead mana!" He struggled harder against the web, trying to break free grab his sword to tear it apart. His voice came out hoarse with panic. "You need to find Lord Arzan... Hell know how to make an antidote! You have to go!" Amyra''s body trembled, partly from the venom coursing through her veins, but mostly from the flood of emotions overtaking her mind. She shook her head, eyes distant, as memories flashed before her. Her clan The only part of her that was left. "No... I won''t run," she whispered, her voice cracking. "Not again!" The black lines creeping up her arm suddenly halted, then began to retreat. It happened almost too quickly for Killian to grasp what was happening. A soft, golden glow radiated from within her, spreading across her skin like a shield. Killians eyes widened in disbelief. "Amyra what?" Even the spiders paused, their legs twitching in hesitation as they stared at the light now wrapping around her. They had no understanding of what they were facing, the usual hunger in their eyes momentarily replaced by confusion. As the spiders lunged to finish her off, Amyras gaze sharpened, her voice rising above the chaos. "You fiends cant kill me!" Her voice was fierce, but there was something deeper a resolve she hadnt felt in years. The golden light erupted from her, expanding in a brilliant wave that swallowed everything around her. It gave off a heat, burning away everything in its path. The spiders screeched in agony, their legs flailing as the light consumed them, searing away their dark forms like paper in flame. A few of them tried to run, but the light was far quicker, devouring before they could escape. Amyra''s mana surged uncontrollably, raw and unrefined, drawn from the depths of her soul, pouring out as if it had a mind of its own. It wasnt just power it was the release of years of guilt, fear, and the pain of running. And then, in an instant, it was too much. Her body collapsed, the golden glow fading as quickly as it had come. But in those final moments, before her eyes closed, the screams of her clan echoed in her mind again. She remembered running, helpless. But this time, she had stood her ground this time, it had been different. *** Ragnars breath came in ragged gasps, his grip on his mace tightening with every swing. Since the day he first picked up a weapon and began raiding merchant and noble caravans, hed faced his share of close calls. There were a few moments when he thought he might dieespecially that time hed been captured by Arzan but nothing compared to the suffocating dread he felt now. Before, survival had seemed like a question of luck, skill, and brute strength. But now? Now, death felt inevitable. Vaelithsscaly, with thick hides that shimmered in the dull light, claws as long as daggers rushed at him in waves. They were Grade 2 beasts and their screeches filled the air, adding to the chaos around him. Ragnar brought his mace down with a fierce shout, slicing through the closest creature. Blood sprayed across his armour, and the monster collapsed at his feet, twitching. But it was only one of many. No matter how many he cut down, more replaced them, their numbers seemingly endless. He stepped back, eyes scanning the battlefield. To his left, Gorak and other mercenaries were locked in combat, their faces set in grim with one goal kill as many as possible. He had seen them with the blessed Mage before, but back then, he hadn''t gotten a chance to see how strong they were. Now, he could say that even without Arzan being there that night, the mercenaries would have been a hard challenge for his men. Goraks enchanted axe whirled like blurs, hacking through anything that got too close. His team members werent far behind, using their weapons to hold the line. Especially the elven archer who had chosen to follow her team instead of being on the walls like the other archers. Every once in a while, a blast of flame or ice erupted from behind, carving a path through the horde, but it was never enough. For every monster they felled, two more took its place. On his right, Ragnar saw fellow barbarians his people. Their war cries echoed over the din of battle as they fought with a wild, savage fury. Blood-soaked and battered, they swung their heavy weapons with reckless abandon, relying on sheer brute strength to mow down the monsters. Some had already fallen, their bodies trampled beneath the endless tide of beasts, but those still standing fought on, undeterred by their losses. The guards who were known as Enforcers dotted the battlefield, their more disciplined movements contrasting with the chaotic style of the barbarians and mercenaries. S~ea??h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Their steel-clad forms moved in well-rehearsed patterns, cutting through the weaker monsters with surgical precision. But even they were struggling to hold the line. Ragnar clenched his jaw, forcing himself to focus. He had to push forward. A sudden growl rumbled through the battlefield, making the hairs on Ragnars neck stand on end. It wasnt like the others this was deeper, more primal, raw, hungry! His eyes darted toward the sound, and before he could fully react, a beast lept out from behind the horde of monsters. This one was different. Larger. Its massive body was highlighted from the other beasts, each step sending tremors through the ground. Covered in a thick, stone-like hide, the creature shimmered with a dull, sickly gleam under the dim sky. It had a presence that made even the vicious Vaeliths pause. A Grade 3 beast. This was no ordinary creature. Ragnars breath caught in his throat as the beast, known as the arsenic bear, let out a roar that shook the ground beneath him. Its roar reverberated through his bones, sending a pulse of dread through his body. The arsenic bear was infamous in the wilds its hide was said to be as tough as stone, and its breath carried a venomous miasma, capable of poisoning anything in its wake. It was larger than any beast Ragnar had faced before during the battle, its jagged hide shimmering with a toxic green hue as if its very blood was laced with poison. And then, without warning, it pounced. Ragnar barely managed to roll out of the way, the ground where hed been standing now cracked and smoking from the sheer force of the impact. The arsenic bears claws were like jagged boulders, each swipe heavy enough to shatter a shield. Damn, Ragnar muttered under his breath, quickly regaining his stance. His weapon felt too small, too fragile in the face of such a creature. He watched as the bear turned, its glowing green eyes fixed on him, drool dripping from the corners of its mouth. The beast roared again, rearing up on its hind legs. It was easily twice his height now, its thick, muscular frame covered in ridges of armor-like hide. Ragnar clenched his weapon tighter. His heart raced, but he didn''t back down. He couldnt. The arsenic bear charged again, its claws cutting through the air, aiming for death. Ragnar dodged, barely avoiding the razor-sharp talons, and swung his weapon. Sparks flew as his mace clanged against its stony hide, but the beast didnt even flinch. Its thick hide was like a fortress, absorbing his attacks with ease. The bear swung a massive paw at Ragnar. He raised his weapon in defense, but the sheer force of the blow sent him flying back, skidding across the ground. He groaned as he pushed himself back to his feet, his arms shaking from the impact. Behind him, Gorak and the mercenary team were holding their own against the horde of smaller monsters, but Ragnars focus was locked on the arsenic bear. This was his fight. The bears claws scraped the ground, and its eyes narrowed, glowing with a sickly green light as it prepared to strike again. Ragnars muscles tensed. He could feel the anger boiling inside him, the fire in his chest growing hotter. The Lombards were warriors fighters who thrived in battle, and he wouldnt let this beast best him. He tapped into that rage, the very emotion that fueled his peoples martial arts, and surged forward. His speed increased, his strikes sharper and more precise as the anger coursed through his veins. His mace struck the beasts side, and this time, he felt it bite into flesh. The bear let out a pained growl, thick, green blood oozing from the wound. But Ragnar had no time to celebrate. Before he could land another strike, another creature pounced at him from the side, its fangs bared. For a split second, Ragnars heart stopped. He had no time to dodge. But before the beast could reach him, a golden light engulfed the battlefield. It swallowed Ragnar and the beasts whole, and just like that, everything around him faded into a blinding light. *** Kai gritted his teeth, his eyes locked on the abnormal form of the brood mother, Vermorga. Its legs, massive and spindly, thrashed violently as it tried to tear its way through him, its monstrous bulk inching closer to the city. His hands moved to weave another spell, but for a brief moment, he got distracted as a strange golden light flared near the city walls, but he had no time to dwell on it. Vermorga screeched, and Kai responded with a torrent of spells. Lances of flame shot from his hands, precise and deadly, each one aimed at the creature''s vulnerable joints. Wind cutters followed, slicing through the air and biting into the legs of the beast, their sharp edges intended to immobilise it. But no matter how much damage he inflicted, the spider surged forward, relentlessly. , he thought, frustration building as his fiend firethe very spell that was supposed to incinerate its corrupted form licked along its body but failed to consume it. Normally, the flames would devour anything tainted by dark mana, reducing it to ash. But the brood mothers corruption had reached an unnatural peak. Every wound he managed to land was swallowed by waves of dark mana, the injuries closing faster than they were made. He cursed under his breath as another swipe of its leg sent debris flying, forcing him to dodge. No matter how many times he attacked, the creature regenerated, its monstrous form swelling with each pulse of corrupt energy. Kai''s mind raced. If this thing wasnt killed soon, the entire forest would fall. He could already sense it the creeping corruption spreading beyond the battlefield, into the heart of the Sylvan Enclave. From there, it wouldnt be long before the kingdom itself was at risk. He briefly thought of the Archine Tower and their Mages. From what he saw of them, he doubted even they would be able to hold off against the brood mother. Not with most of their Mages having no battle experience. A dark thought crept into his mind: But it was another matter he had no time to dwell on. The brood mothers repulsive form loomed larger with each step, its corruption twisting the air around it, foul and suffocating. His mana reserves were pulled out faster than hed anticipated, each spell pulling more energy from his core as he unleashed strike after strike. The Vermorga hissed, dark mana erupting from its wounds before they sealed shut as if mocking his efforts. Its voice slithered into his mind, cold and menacing. "Submit or in death, you will serve me." Kai gritted his teeth, ignoring the words. . He unleashed another barragemore flaming lances, more wind cutters but it was becoming painfully clear that his usual arsenal wasnt enough. He could feel it. His [Inferenal chains] hadn''t been able to hold it around and if he got too close, the venom, webs and the projectiles on his back would be able to injure him. He had higher-circle spells ones that could potentially bring the creature down but his body wasnt prepared for the toll they would take. A part of him dreaded thinking about what would have happened if he fought the spider at third circle, but fortunately, he had made a good decision. The thought clouded in his mind. His mana reserves were half full, and casting a spell of that magnitude would leave him defenceless, drained to the point where he''d be unable to fight if anything went wrong. And something always went wrong. Fortunately, he still had one plan remaining. The Vermorga was too close now, its massive body inching closer to the city walls. Looking back, over eighty percent of the beast wave had been obliterated by the defenders relentless efforts, but the brood mother? It was something else entirely a walking apocalypse. As it advanced, the remaining guards, Enforcers, and Mages watched in wide-eyed terror. Some took hesitant steps back, the reality of what they were facing sinking in. Even Balen, always confident in own strength, looked on with uncertainty, and Orion beside him gripped the railing of the wall, his face pale. Kais voice cut through the growing panic. "Everyone fall back! Get behind the walls!" His command rang out over the battlefield. "We can''t stop it here! You all know what to do!" The defenders hesitated for only a moment before retreating, following his command without replying back. The Vermorga, with its unholy regeneration and sheer size, was unstoppable out here. The walls of the city were their only hope, but even those won''t hold. They had no choice, but to run back to safety. Kai cursed under his breath. Retreating wasnt what he wanted to do, but it was the only sane option left. Before everyone retreated, the last of the beasts were torn apart by the defenders final attacks as they threw all the explosive potions down at them with a batch of Syphon stones. They reacted violently in the explosion, causing it to spread and engulf more remaining beasts. The frays and Enforcers picked up anyone that was injured as they ran towards the gates. Balen turned the mana cannons toward the approaching brood mother. A jolt of powerful mana blasted through and struck the creature, making it roar in fury, but it barely slowed down. Dark tendrils of mana pulsed from the beasts wounds, healing as quickly as the damage was done. Balen barely had time to dive as Vermorga retaliated, hurling a mass of projectiles in his direction. Kai reacted instantly, summoning a gust of wind to catch Balen in mid-air and throwing him safely back towards one of the refugee shelters. Balen, Run! Your job is over. I will handle everything from here! Without any reply, the minotaur pushed himself up and ran alongside others towards the back end of the city. With that done, Kais eyes fixed on Vermorga as it rammed into the wall with full force, shattering a massive section of it as it clawed its way into the city. The wall that had taken so long to fix and strengthen was broken in a matter of seconds. The beast bellowed in victory, its twisted, monstrous shape looming large and casting a vast shadow across the streets. It turned its many eyes towards Kai, its voice dripping with malice. "Human," it growled. "Youve done well to destroy my forces, but more of my children will rise. I will take control of more beasts, and youall of youwill serve as my army as I consume this world. Youve already surrendered by retreating your forces. You deserve a good death." Kai hovered in the air, seemingly unmoved by the brood mothers threats. Webs came at him, trying to hold him at one place, but the white flames flared up, the wind propelling him backwards as Vermorga followed. More attacks came at him as it crunched the corpses of other beasts to chase after him, but Kai was too quick for it. Why don''t you surrender? Your forces already have! It roared, standing still. A smirk crept onto Kai''s face before he burst into laughter, a sound that echoed across the battlefield, drawing confused glances from the beasts. "Yes," he admitted. "My people retreated, and we lost the wall. But it wasnt because I accepted defeat or surrendered. It was to make sure no one else gets injured." The brood mothers many eyes narrowed. "What are you saying, human?" Kai pointed downward. "Look where you''re standing." The brood mother glanced down, and for the first time, its massive body stiffened. Below its feet, an intricate summoning circle had been carved into the ground, glowing faintly with arcane energy. Balen and Orion had worked furiously to complete it, following the detailed diagram Kai had provided. Runes pulsed with power, encircling the Vermorga and locking it within. Kai floated in front of the creature, his gaze cold and calculating. "I hoped my spells would be enough, but I had a feeling you would be a tough nut to crack, so I prepared this. This circle is connected to other planes realms where creatures far more deadly than you exist. And you know a thing about them, theyre always hungry for a fight." The brood mother screeched, thrashing against the summoning circle before rushing towards him, but it was too late. Kai began chanting, his voice low but firm he made sure not to mess up a single syllable. Vorathis Malkara Astrala Nasham Eranda! As the final words of the fifth circle summoning spell left his lips, he pricked his finger and let a drop of blood fall onto the circle. The ground trembled as the summoning circle lit up in brilliant, fiery red. Tendrils of light spiralled around the brood mother, snaking up its legs and binding her in place. Kai was already out of it by a few paces and the magic of it didn''t affect him. The Vermorga roared, struggling violently, but the rules of the summoning circle were absolute. It locked anyone who had been in the circle until a pact was made or the summoned creature was sent home. It was a neat trick that Kai had thought of. If he wasn''t strong enough to deal with a Grade 6 mana fiend, then he was just going to call someone who was able to do so. The whole circle thrummed with power as a portal opened and the finale of the beast wave began. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 116. Veralt lives! Back when Kai had been trapped in the library in the Sorcerer Tower, his original plan had been to move planes to rejuvenate his powers before returning. That was until he had gotten the spell to go back in time. Due to that, he had spent countless hours pouring over forgotten tomes and ancient scrolls. But it hadn''t been an easy decision. This plan it had always been a gamble. One wrong move, one miscalculated summoning, and the city would burn to the ground, collateral to his ambition. Out of all the different planes and the vast amount of creatures that lived there, only a few could deliver the swift, brutal blow necessary to take down the brood mother in one strike. Most of the beasts at higher levels of strengths were far too destructive. Fire giants capable of stomping through the cities with fiery fists, giant thundering eagles that were famous for killing entire legions of Mages and countless others like that. No, he couldnt summon something like that. The city would be razed alongside the brood mother and everyone else. He needed something different something just as deadly, but more contained. A beast he could send back immediately after calling it. After thinking it through, there had only been one beast that was perfect for killing off the Vermorga without any additional damage. The summoning circle beneath him throbbed with untamed, raw mana, the ground trembling beneath his feet as the air itself seemed to tear open. The portal was a swirling, chaotic vortex of dark and fiery hues. The very fabric of reality bent to his will as finally, the creature emerged from the rift. It was monstrous, its form more shadow than substance, smoke billowing from its body like dark flames licking at the air. Three glowing eyes blazed in its face, each one a pinprick of hellish light, and a yawning mouth stretched across the middle of its body, notched teeth glistening in the gloom. Its form flickered, shifting, as though its very existence was an insult to the world it had entered. A high-pitched, grating screech tore through the air, echoing across the battlefield as the beast landed its eyes on the brood mother. Without hesitation, the Ifrit launched itself toward the Vermorga, a blur of shadow and smoke. Its speed was beyond mortal comprehension one moment it stood before Kai, and the next it was upon the brood mother, slamming into it with the force of a hurricane. The brood mother let out a bellow, its corrupt form recoiling as the Ifrit dug into it, the clash of dark mana and smoke filling the air like a storm ready to erupt. Kai watched, heart pounding in his chest. This was it. If this didnt work... there would be no second chances. The brood mother writhed in a frenzied dance, its limbs flailing as it heaved a storm of venomous spittle and sticky webbing into the air. Jagged projectiles shot forth with blistering speed, each one a desperate, spiked missile driven by its frantic will to survive. Yet, it was futile. The Ifrit moved like living smoke, its body passing through the attacks with ease. Its form wrapped around the brood mother, engulfing it in an inferno of unholy flames. A screech cut through the air as the brood mother felt its own flesh searing away. Flames licked at its body, consuming everything in their path. Black, corrupted mana surged through its veins, trying to mend the charred wounds, but it was no match for the inferno. The Ifrit''s flames burned hotter than anything the brood mother had ever encountered, relentless and unyielding. Chunks of flesh and corrupted blood splattered onto the ground as the brood mothers regeneration faltered, its twisted body unravelling under the assault. The creature was no mere summon a Grade 7 entity that ruled a part of the Flame Plane. The brood mother had never stood a chance. Its agonized screeches filled the battlefield as it was soon reduced to a smouldering husk, nothing more than a shadow of its once spiteful form. Blood soaked the ground around it, but the flames persisted, relentless in their consumption. The battle hadn''t lasted more than a minute. The Ifrit, its work done, let out one final screech, a sound of victory as it prepared to turn its fiery wrath elsewhere. But before it could act, the summoning circle beneath it pulsed again. The portal crackled with energy, and with a sudden pull, the Ifrit was dragged back into the abyss from which it had come. Smoke and fire vanished in an instant, leaving nothing but silence and the charred remains of the brood mother behind. As the creature vanished into the portal, Kai let out a breath he hadn''t realized he''d been holding. His gaze fell upon the corpse of the brood mother, a grotesque ruin of charred flesh and blood It hadn''t been easy to carve out a perfect summoning circle for an Ifrit with a return sigil to send it back just after a minute. The more he thought, the more the plan had been a gamble. He had obviously prepared countermeasures, still having enough mana to cast one more fifth circle spell, but that won''t be necessary anymore. And a part of him just wanted to kneel down and let out his emotions, but before doing that, he looked around. Victory had been snatched at the last moment, yet it had come at a steep cost. He surveyed the battlefield littered with remnants of the beast wave, his mind racing to process everything. Looking over where the pieces of the wall were, he could see numerous corpses, mostly of beasts, but there were enough human and fray lives lost too. He frowned, returning his gaze towards the charred, lifeless body of the Vermorga. Just then, something caught his eye. Amidst the dark streaks on its back, something stirred small, writhing, and black. He squinted, focusing on the movement as a tiny creature emerged from the brood mothers back. A caterpillar-like being, slick and inky, squirmed its way out, desperate to escape. Its form was unnatural and it was as if its entire body was covered in dead mana. What in the bloody hell is that? Kai muttered under his breath. Before it could flee, he acted. A sharp gust of wind coiled around the creature, lifting it into the air. Kai pulled it closer, studying it with wide eyes. The thing wasnt just cloaked in dead mana it was dead mana. It pulsed and rippled as though alive, moving like a parasitic embodiment of pure corruption. It was disturbingly similar to the Ifrit, but worse in every way. Where the Ifrit had been a being of elemental power, this parasite was death incarnate, Kai reached out, considering grabbing it, but before his hand could make contact, the creature exploded. Dark mana scattered in every direction, wild and uncontrollable. Instinctively, Kai summoned a blaze of his own mana, burning the remnants before they could infect the battlefield further. Panting slightly, he looked down at the brood mothers lifeless form again. A cold chill ran through him. Questions hit him like the swing of a hammer. The pieces started falling into place. Parasites were rarer types of beasts, but he wasn''t entirely unfamiliar with them and that squirming creature was definitely one of them. And if that thing was inside the brood mother, then everything suddenly made sense. A parasite Kai murmured, thoughts racing. Was it controlling it all along? The implications sent his mind spiralling. Could this parasite have been the driving force behind the brood mothers corruption? Was it the catalyst for the beast wave? His suspicion turned to Lucian. Had he somehow createdor obtained such a creature? It seemed beyond his capabilities, yet the possibility gnawed at Kai. And then there was Actra. Hadn''t he transformed into an entity using dead mana just by drinking a vial? What were the chances that the parasite had come from the same place as the vial? Everything suddenly felt connected and he felt like cursing at that possibility. Kais fists tightened. "Lucian... just what the hell are you planning?" Before Kai could dwell further on the disturbing revelations, the sound of footsteps broke through his thoughts. He spun around to see a crowd of people emerging from the shadows. They had put everyone who wasnt involved in the battle near the castle for safety, and now they were returning to see if they had triumphed alongside the ones who had run away when the brood mother had entered the city. All of their faces were battle-worn and injuries were clearly visible on their bodies. Killian, looking dazed, was being carried by Feroy, while a few other Enforcers limped along beside them. Mages of the Archine Tower were just after them, their faces pale, probably from mana exhaustion, but they were mostly unharmed due to being in the back. Balen and Orion strode in together, their expressions fierce, and he also saw Ragnar and other barbarians in the crowd. Off in the distance, he spotted frays, hobbling toward the group. sea??h th n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. None of them spoke for a while, simply watching the destruction that had fallen upon the city and as their eyes found the corpse of the brood mother, more than a few trembled and Kai saw tears in their eyes. Balen was the first to break the tension. With a roar that echoed through the city, he yelled, "The Vermorga is dead! We won! Fuck yeah!" That was all it took. The crowd erupted in cheers, fists raised to the sky, voices hoarse from exhaustion but filled with triumph. Some men collapsed to their knees, overcome by relief, others embraced, their eyes bright with tears. For a moment, the weight of the battle and the eerie mystery of the parasite faded into the background. They had survived. They had won. That was all it mattered in the moment. Kai, still processing the events, knew the questions could wait. There would be time to dissect the horrors later. Right now, the city needed to savour its hard-earned victory. Doing what he had learned any good leader should do in moments like these, Kai raised his hand high in the air, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside him. "The brood mother is dead!" he shouted, his voice carrying over the crowd. The beast wave is quenched! Veralt lives!" Another wave of cheers burst forth, louder this time, as the weight of the victory sunk in. The biggest battle the city had faced was over, and all of them had earned the right to celebrate. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 117. Aftermath Kai exhaled, the rush of victory already starting to fade. Despite the impossible odds, they''d pulled off a win, but the work was far from over. The responsibilities of a lord weighed heavier now. There were losses to account for, injuries to manage, funerals to arrange it wasnt over until every sacrifice was honoured. He glanced toward Francis and Killian, the two he knew he could lean on. The moment the celebrations erupted around him, both men were the first to reach his side. Francis, beaming with pride, grinned as he clapped his hands together. "Lord Arzan, we did it. You did it." Kai shook his head. "Everyone did it. If they hadnt believed in my plan to summon a creature from another plane, it wouldnt have worked." His eyes flicked toward the crumbled remains of the wall. "Though we lost the wall." "The wall doesnt matter. We rebuilt it once. We can do it again. What we did today... no one else in the kingdom couldve done it with this many troops. It''s just an unprecedented victory that''s going to be written down in the history books." Kai nodded, though he noticed a shadow passed over Killian''s face. Suddenly, his eyes seemed distant and he pursed his lips tightly together. Are you okay? I see you are injured. Kai asked, looking over at his shoulders. Just based on what he had seen, Killian had killed almost two dozen beasts on his own, but it had also given him quite a few injuries. You shouldn''t push yourself and heal for now. It''s not that. Killian shook his head. We lost people. Some I saw falling right in front of my eyes Nelson didn''t make it. Kais chest tightened, his frown deepening as he remembered Nelson, the young man who had entered the guards with lofty dreams. He was one of the Enforcers who helped Kai to the maximum of his abilities when they fought off the bandits and the first to face the spiders head-on during the earlier attacks. "There are probably many more who fell beside him. Well honour each one. Make sure their families know they died as heroes." Killian gave a solemn nod but then added, his voice cautious, "Theres... something else. Its about Amyra." Kais heart sank, his face falling in dread. "Is she...?" Killian quickly shook his head. "No, no. She''s just unconscious. But... theres something you need to know" Before Killian could finish, a sharp, stinging pain lanced through Kais chest. His breath hitched, the sensation growing unbearable as he clutched his chest, teeth-gritting in pain. Even though he tried his best to stop the pain while keeping his hand on his chest, his whole body shook. The backlash of temporarily increasing his circles was here. The word slammed into his mind, cold realisation dawning. His heart thundered in his ears, every beat a deafening drum as the fourth circle, barely contained, spun out of control. His mana surged wildly, coursing through his veins like a raging river, uncontrollable, volatile. He felt it like a storm inside him, battering his body from within. A jolt of energy slammed into his chest, sending a fresh wave of pain that nearly knocked him to his knees. His vision blurred as he fought to stabilise the circle, pouring everything he had into reigning it in. But it wasnt enough. The mana whipped through him, lashing out violently, hitting him harder than any beast had. His knees buckled, and as the world tilted, the last thing he saw was Francis and Killian rushing toward him before darkness claimed his vision. *** A week had passed since the beast wave battle. Kai lay in bed, his body still bruised from the aftermath as he hoped he would recover soon enough. The beast wave had barely managed to injure him since he had maintained his distance, but the backlash from the temporary fourth circle disintegrating had. Mana had torn through him, leaving a trail of broken bones and a heart barely holding together. It had also damaged his Mana heart partially which he was in the process of healing. Yet, despite the damage, he was lucky. The fear of being crippled for life had been there in the back of his mind, but he had dodged that fate. His progress had regressed, pushing him back to the beginning of the third circle. His Mana heart needed to be healed further to not leave any lasting damage, but he felt a smouldering confidence deep within. He would rise again. Once his body healed, there was no doubt he would reclaim the fourth circle and make it even stronger. As he lay there, the muffled sound of laughter and chatter filtered through the walls of his chamber. The city was celebrating, despite the losses. Outside, Francis had taken charge in his absence, handling the logistics of the funerals and organising the festivities. Kai could hear the faint clamour of a feast in full swing, the scent of roasted beast meat wafting through the air, a reminder of their hard-won victory. They had been holding such events daily after the cleaning had begun, wanting to savour the victory till they could. Most of the city had survived only the walls and some of the refugee shelters had been lost. Casualties had been heavy, but the town had held, with only thirty percent of their forces falling in the fight. And now, with fresh supplies of beast meat, the people had reason to celebrate, lifting their spirits after the grim, scary, monstrous battle. The festival atmosphere filled the night, while Kai rested, knowing that despite everything, they had endured. He sighed, his thoughts drifting. Veralt. The city that had become an extension of him, entwined with his fate. His gaze lingered on the ceiling as he thought about the future he hadn''t planned to take over Arzan''s body and duties. It had just happened as he had deemed it the best scenario for him, but as he fought with Actra and the brood mother, he had started to wonder if it was fate that had led him to clashes against dead mana. Maybe it was. There was no answer to that, but at least, he had gotten more convinced in his decision to take over Veralt. The city was still growing, but it had everything to mould into something formidable and with the plans he had in mind, he might be able to change the course of history, with the city in the centre of it all. Although Kai wasn''t sure if he was a good lord, he wasn''t as bad as Arzan and compared to the nobles he had seen, he had a vision. As his musings reached there, he was interrupted by a knock. A light rap against the door, prompting him to look towards it. "Come in," Kai called out. The door creaked open, and Claire, Francis, and Killian stepped into the room. Francis icy composure led the way, followed by the battle-worn but dependable Killian, and lastly, Claire, who looked extremely cautious with the slow steps she took. One after another, they all stood in front of Kai. His lips twitched into a small smile, an automatic response to the sight of his most trusted people in the castle. At least, with them, Veralt remained standing, and he was able to take a good rest without being worried about whatd happen when he wasnt there anymore. Hows your health, Lord Arzan? Francis asked, voice low and respectful. Kai waved his hand, cutting through the formalities. Im recovering. Lets get to the point. The room seemed to shift at his words, everyone falling into their roles. A slight smile tugged on Franciss face, probably because he expected Kai to get to the chase like this, therefore he straightened, his expression turning serious. All the funerals have been handled, Lord Arzan, he began. Were in negotiations with Malden and a few other merchants for the beast parts. Veralts getting the prime sections well need them for supplies for weapons and alchemical potions. The rest, well sell. First order of business after that is rebuilding the wall. Well start with that tomorrow. He paused for a moment before continuing. Luckily, things have been quiet since the beast wave, so even without a complete wall, were in good shape. The frays have agreed to help secure the perimeter in the meantime. No beast will get near Veralt. Kai nodded, absorbing the information. Francis had a way of covering the essentials with the security of the city, and at moments such as this, it was all he could ask for. "Good," he said simply, acknowledging the progress without lingering on it. His eyes shifted to Killian, who had been standing quietly, though with an air of casual confidence. Kai noted the improvement in his posture much stronger than the last time they spoke. And you, Killian? Hows your recovery? Killian gave a slight nod with a ghost of a smile covering his lips, rolling his shoulders as if to emphasize his point. Much better, as you can see, Lord Arzan. My bodys healing faster than I expected becoming an Enforcer really speeds things up. Kai nodded, unsurprised but glad to hear it. And your report? Killians grin faded, replaced by his usual seriousness. The guards are mostly healed. Those still injured are recovering, though its slow for some. The mercenaries are staying with us for now, but theyve been paid, so theyre content. Only Nelson lost his life among the Enforcers, the rest are back on their feet thanks to the potions given by Orion. Ive taken a few frays out on patrols outside Veralt. We havent seen anything threatening seems like the wave cleared out most dangers. News has started reaching the other cities, though, and we expect the people who ran away will start returning soon. Kai listened, nodding slightly as Killian finished. It was as expected Veralt was regaining its footing, albeit slowly. The beast wave had left its mark, but the city would recover. He would make sure of it. Finally, his attention turned to Claire, who had remained quiet through the reports. She met his gaze with her usual calm, but there was a tension in the room now, the air heavy with unspoken things. Claire? Kai asked, his voice low, though he already knew she had something important to say. She didnt speak immediately, taking a moment to gather her thoughts. Then, in her usual measured tone, she began, As you ordered, Ive had the maids and servants under my command monitoring the Mages closely. So far, weve only confirmed one spy Roran Brightholm. Hes been attempting to send information to Archine Tower, though he hasnt made any moves beyond that. Were keeping a close watch on him." - Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 118. The Maleficent Viper When Kai received the Mages from Archine Tower, he hadn''t been fooled by how easily they were sent. It reeked of convenience, and in this world, nothing was ever that simple. The Tower didnt just discard their own like unwanted parchment. He knew very well that the one who had ordered Actra to kill him still held power in the shadows of the Archine Tower, lurking within those halls. And it was someone who was probably on the council. Hiding spies or assassins among the Mages seemed like the obvious play a trap Kai had been prepared for from the start. Only Claire, Francis, Killian and a few trusted maids were in on it, quietly pulling apart every move the Mages made. They watched the new recruits with sharp, silent vigilance, piecing together their intentions like puzzle pieces. None of the Mages suspected a thing since maids being assigned to them was common. Especially not the Wind MageRoran, the man whod slowly gotten the best reputation among all the Archine Tower Mages. Roran was... diligent if anything. Hed been on the frontline for the dangerous scouting missions, putting his life on the line in a way that seemed too genuine to be questioned. Kai admired that dedication no one saw a spy in a hero. But what the Mage had in courage, he lacked in subtlety, especially considering that he was practically living under someone elses roof. Rorans moves have been measured. Weve noticed him snooping around the alchemical labs, but he hasnt tried anything drastic yet. However, he did attempt to send detailed information about the mana cannons and the Enforcers to Archine Tower. She paused for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly. Like I reported last time, we intercepted his message before it got out. Kais brow furrowed, but only slightly. He already expected something like this. Good job, he said, nodding at her. Keep an eye on him. And the others toothere could be more spies hiding among them. We cant be too careful. Claire nodded in acknowledgement, the tension still hanging in the air. If weve got evidence, why not just finish him off? Killians voice was direct when he asked that question. To him, the answer seemed clear eliminate the problem. Kai shook his head, his expression tightening with thought. No, he said firmly. Not right now. Killing him gives us nothing. Killian blinked, momentarily taken aback. Nothing? If hes working for Archine Tower, thats reason enough. He could kill himself before we even get him to trial, and if hes truly doing it for Archine Tower, then hes replaceable. Veridia Kai spat the name of the Magus with condescension she doesnt seem like the type to be attached to her pawns. She can discard them easily. If we kill him now, theyll just send someone else. A fresh spy. Someone smarter, more cautious. No its wiser to let him snoop around for a while longer. You want him to keep spying? Not exactly, Kai replied, eyes narrowing. Well use him. Feed him false information. Let him think hes getting everything Archine Tower wants. Its far more valuable to mislead them, give them the wrong impression of whats happening here. If Roran keeps reporting back with useful details that are ultimately wrong, we can keep the Tower in the dark. Francis nodded in agreement. Its a calculated move. We can string him along, let him feel like hes in control while we control the flow of information. Killian seemed to mull it over before sighing. Fine. But it feels like a risk. Kais smile was thin. It is a risk. But one we need to take. If we kill him, we gain nothing but momentary satisfaction. By keeping him alive, we turn him into a weapon one we aim at Archine Tower. He paused momentarily, letting his words ring around the air. Keep watching him. And dont get complacent. If he even tries to push beyond what we allow well deal with him swiftly. Francis nodded, agreeing with Kais reasoning. Yes, I think the same. We need to keep the ruse going for longer. If we tip our hand too soon, we lose our edge. Kai gave a satisfied nod. Exactly. Archine Tower isnt our only enemy. Theyre just one of many. Weve finally gotten a lead on them, so keeping Roran around until hes served his purpose is the smart move. With news about the beast wave spreading, many ripples will be felt across the kingdom and Veralt is at the centre of it all. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He paused, glancing at each of them in turn. We need to deflect attention away from us as much as possible. If Im right, the real storm will start here, in the Sylvan Enclave itself. Killian let out a long sigh, rubbing the back of his neck. Duke Lucian Kellius. Kais eyes darkened at the name, and he nodded. Yes. I imagine hes already furious that I managed to defeat the beast wave. And if my suspicions are correct, hes far more dangerous than we initially thought. As he spoke, a memory resurfaced something Edrian, Arzans second brother had told him. The weight of it lingered in the back of his mind, and now seemed the right moment to bring it up. Have you heard of the tale of the Maleficent Viper? Kai asked, his voice quieter now, more contemplative. Francis, Claire, and Killian all shook their heads, waiting for him to explain. Kai leaned back slightly, remembering the details of the story. I read about it recently. The Maleficent Viper is a Grade 3 beast that lives deep in the forest vicious, territorial creature, but the story isnt about just any viper. It speaks of a particular nest that housed three vipers: the eldest, the second, and the youngest. Kai let the silence settle for a moment before continuing, his voice measured. The two older vipers were constantly at odds, fighting for control of the entire nest. The eldest, however, showed no interest in total domination. Instead, it chose to protect its youngest sibling, even asking for its help against their mutual threat the second brother. Killian frowned slightly, not sure where the story was going, but Franciss sharp eyes seemed to catch on to the underlying theme. The youngest viper agreed, Kai continued. Together, the eldest and the youngest killed the second viper, gaining more territory and control over the nest. But it wasnt out of loyalty it was survival. And through their cooperation, they expanded their hold on the forest. "The youngest was happy and trusted the oldest," he said, his voice dropping a notch, the weight of the words palpable. "But as soon as the second viper was dead, the oldest ate the youngest. Without hesitation. Without remorse. The oldest took the entire territory for itself." The room was dead still, and it was Killian who finally broke the silence. Then Duke Lucian Kellius is the oldest viper here. Kai nodded, his expression dark, knowing that was the most likely conclusion. His mind flickered to the battle he had fought, the chaos, the pain. It wasnt just about beasts or waves of creatures; it was about ambition. The kind of ambition that makes someone kill even their own family to claim power. I fought more than a beast wave, Kai said, his voice low. I fought ambition. And its clear now that Lucian Kellius has the same ruthless ambition. If we dont defend against that viper, hes going to devour me next. My second brother is already out of the race. Francis, Claire, and Killian all nodded in agreement, the severity of the situation sinking in. Kai allowed himself a moment of contemplation, the gears in his mind turning, piecing together the possibilities. Then a slow smile curled on his lips. But theres something else. The others looked at him curiously. I found out that there are a few versions of the Maleficent Viper tale, Kai continued. And in one of them, the story takes a different turn. After the eldest viper killed the youngest and took all the territory, it didnt have time to enjoy its victory. A hawk, who had been watching the entire time, swooped down from the sky. It had been waiting for an opportunity, watching as the vipers fought amongst themselves. And when the eldest finally ate the youngest, the hawk struck. It killed the eldest viper and claimed everything for itself. That version grabbed all of their attention in unison. Kais eyes glinted. We dont have to be the youngest viper, hoping for scraps. We just need to be that hawk. Killian let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head. Basically, we need to observe everything and attack when our enemy least expects it. Francis folded his arms, considering the new perspective. A hawk... waiting for the right moment to strike. It fits. Let them think theyre in control. When Lucian attacks and I know he will, he would expect to eat me up, Kai said. And we need to make him feel so until we reveal that we aren''t just any other viper waiting to be devoured, but hawks preying on him. A spark of understanding lit in the room. The pieces of the puzzle were aligning, the strategy shifting from defense to something far more cunning. Lucian may be the viper, Kai said, but if we play this right, he wont even see the hawk coming. Hes so focused on expanding his territory, on devouring everything in his path, that he wont realise someones been watching from above the whole time. *** A/N - Volume 2 normal chapters end. Only epilogues remains. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Author’s NOTE: IMPORTANT!! Hello everyone! Hope you all are alive and kicking! After a whole lot of kingdom building, we''re bringing the heat with our newest book release, a xianxia novel: Dao of Money! Imagine a cultivation world where the MC isnt hunting for martial glory but, well...cold, hard 20k words are already live for you to sink your teeth into! But heres the kicker: we need 200 followers by tonight to push for RS! SO, you''re intrigued by the idea of a cunning businessman in a world of magical kung fu and mayhem, give it a read, follow, and maybe even toss a rating if it earns it! Heres the lowdown: Synopsis: When Chen Ren transmigrated as a trouble-making young master in a world of cultivation overrun by sects, beasts and clans full of murderous people, he wanted nothing to do with it. He simply wanted to make money. After all, even in a world of magical murderhobos, money ran supreme. Ignoring the numerous martial daos, he chose the dao of money, using his brains and earthly knowledge to build businesses and acquire resources to reach immortality. But before that, he had to deal with a mountain of debt, the cultivators who wanted to kill him and deciding on his first business idea. MC building a business empire & getting rich High IQ protagonist Interesting cultivation journey Sect building Face-slapping Mysteries Cats. Yep, cats. sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Harem Not cats. Inspired by Black Market LitRPG, Laws of Cultivation, and Calculating Cultivation. HAPPY READING! Heres the link: [Dao of Money] (https://www.royalroad.com/fiction/97353/dao-of-money-xianxia-buisness) NOTE: For the Magus Reborn readers, if we reach 200 followers soon, there will be so many updates! [In RR] So, please, head there! Show some support! - TC & Extra26 Volume 2 Epilogue 1 King Sullivan sat on his throne, the weight of his crown pressing down like a millstone. The court bustled around him as usual, ministers squabbling over territorial disputes, tax reforms, and trade negotiations, each speaking as though the kingdom''s future rested solely on their words. The marble floors echoed with the sound of feet shuffling, the drone of voices weaving through the grand hall. Servants moved between the pillars, pouring wine, while nobles cast furtive glances his way, expecting him to deliver judgments, solutions, and answers. But as the clamour filled the air, King Sullivan felt only weariness. Fifty years. Half a century of sitting on that throne, of wearing the mantle of king, of pretending to care. The responsibility of an entire kingdom had been placed on his shoulders when he was young, and now, five decades later, it had crushed the last vestiges of ambition. There was no fire left in him, no drive. Just the endless routine. Sullivan leaned forward slightly, his fingers tapping the armrest of his throne as an attendant droned on about a conflict between two lower nobles over border territories. Something about grazing rights, cattle theft he didnt care. His gaze drifted over the sea of faces, each one looking to him for direction, for resolution. Im done. Sullivan thought bitterly. He had been done for years now. The rumour circulating the courtof a king who had lost his interest wasn''t wrong. The only thing more surprising than his disinterest was how long he''d managed to pretend. Abruptly, Sullivan stood, cutting the minister off mid-sentence. The court is over for today, his voice boomed, bringing an abrupt halt to the rooms chatter. Ill hear the rest tomorrow. Silence gripped the hall. Eyes widened in shock, but only for a moment. This wasnt the first time hed done this. The ministers and nobles exchanged wary glances, their surprise fading to resignation. They have seen the change in his personality King Sullivan was no longer the sharp-edged ruler they once revered. His abrupt departures had become a regular occurrence, though no one dared speak of it in his presence. Without a second glance, Sullivan descended the dais, his heavy robes trailing behind him. An attendant and a knight scrambled to follow in his wake, but he paid them no mind. His steps echoed through the corridors as he left the grand hall behind, responsibilities slipping from his mind as if shedding an old cloak. Ministers would whisper, nobles would gossip but let them. He was the king, and he had grown beyond caring for their chatter. His path, however, didnt take him to his royal chamber, nor did it veer toward the opulent rooms where his queens and concubines awaited his company. Instead, Sullivan walked with purpose, the echoes of court fading behind him as he entered a secluded passage. He made his way through the castles winding halls until he stepped outside. The garden awaited him. Cool air greeted his face as Sullivan crossed the threshold into his private sanctuary. This wasnt just any garden. It was ancient older than his reign, older than the castle itself, or so the stories claimed. Tall, twisted trees with silver leaves stood along the stone paths, their roots thick and gnarled, creeping like serpents through the earth. Exotic flowers bloomed in vibrant, unnatural colours, their petals shimmering faintly in the twilight. Here, in this place, King Sullivan could almost forget the weight of his crown. Almost. He exhaled, feeling the tension leave his body, if only for a moment. The truth was, he had been born into this throne, and the kingdom had consumed his life. But there had always been a part of him that longed for something simpler. Something more. Sullivan stopped before an ancient oak, its bark dark and weathered, its roots curling around the stone bench at its base. He sat down, running his fingers over the smooth stone, feeling the chill seep into his skin. In the stillness, his thoughts were clearer. This place the only place left where he could think, where he could be something other than king. But even here, under the vast canopy of stars, he couldnt escape the reality waiting for him. The kingdom still needed him. No matter how weary he was of it all, no matter how desperately he wanted to walk away, there was no one else to take up the mantle. No heir was good enough. No council was brave enough. The weight of it bore down again, heavier now than it had ever been. He sighed, the weariness returning like a familiar companion. Perhaps tomorrow he would return to the court, hear their disputes, and pretend to care once more. Perhaps. But not tonight. He saw the usual fountain bubbling softly in the centre, its water reflecting the silvery glow of the night sky. Scattered around were stone tables and benches, where the king would often sit in quiet reflection, away from the weight of his duties. He sighed, his thoughts troubled and confused between finding solace and the heavy discomfort of responsibilities gnawing at him. Turning, he glanced at the attendant who had followed him. Leave me for a while, Sullivan said, his voice low and tired. The attendant bowed quickly and retreated without question. The old knight, grizzled and grey, made to follow suit, his heavy boots echoing as he turned to leave, but the king raised a hand. Roderic, he said, calling the knight by name. You can stay. Roderic stopped in his tracks, surprised, but nodded silently. He took up his post by one of the stone benches as King Sullivan moved to tend to the plants, gently brushing his hands over the leaves of a small tree. The garden had always been his refuge, a place where he could lose himself in simple, tangible things. Unlike the kingdom, plants did not ask for rulings or demand answers they only needed care, and they gave life in return. After a long pause, Sullivan finally broke the silence. What do you think of the succession war? he asked, his voice casual but carrying the weight of years of contemplation. Roderic stiffened. The question caught him off guard. Your Majesty, the knight began, his tone formal and careful, I am your knight. I serve you, not my place to comment on such matters. Sullivans gaze remained on the plants as he trimmed a stray vine. Im asking because youre not entangled with any of the princes, he said. Youve served me since I first took the throne. You know the court. You can be frank with me. I dont execute men for their honesty. Roderic shifted uneasily but, after a moment, relaxed slightly. The war has stalled, Your Majesty. All your sons are exceptional in their ways, but none of them have managed to gain the upper hand. And the longer it drags on, the more unrest it sows among the court. Its becoming uneasy. Sullivan nodded. He had known as much, but hearing it spoken aloud only confirmed his suspicions. His sons, each with their strengths and ambitions, were locked in a battle that neither side seemed able to win. And while they fought, the kingdom grew more unstable, more uncertain. Thalric, Sullivan said, naming his youngest son. What do you make of him? Roderics brow furrowed in thought before he answered. Exceptional in combat, as you know, Your Majesty. His leadership in battle is growing, and he has the loyalty of many in the military. Ambition drives him and for a prince, thats expected. But ambition alone cannot rule a kingdom. A king must guide, not just with strength but with wisdom. He must align the kingdom with his vision, not bend it to his will. The king considered this, his fingers brushing over a flower as he stood by the fountain. Ambition is a dangerous thing, he murmured. It can drive a man to greatness or ruin. Thalric has always craved more, always hungry for what lies beyond his reach. But I wonder does he truly understand what it means to be king? Or does he simply want the throne for the power it grants? Roderics silence was telling. The knight had no answer, and neither did Sullivan. King Sullivan walked forward and stood by a carnivorous plant, its vibrant green leaves wide open, waiting for its next victim. The plant was one of the more dangerous species in his garden, a beauty that devoured anything that came near. He brushed his fingers along its edge, thoughtful, as Roderic spoke about Thalric. So, Thalrics a good fighter and a powerful Mage. Last I heard, he was at the peak of the second circle and he''s not even thirty, Sullivan mused aloud, but reckless, like this plant here. He pointed to the carnivorous specimen. Its strong, capable of consuming much more than its size suggests, but it has a fatal flaw. In its hunger, it often devours poisonous insects and kills itself from within. He glanced at Roderic. Thats Thalric, isnt it? Powerful, ambitious but blinded by his need to win. Roderic nodded, though he didnt comment on the kings analogy. Yes, Your Majesty. Hes dangerous in battle, but that ambition blinds him to the subtleties of ruling. If he climbs the throne, war with Vanderfall is inevitable. Sullivan sighed, stepping away from the plant and signalling for Roderic to continue. Go on then. What about the second prince? And be honest. Roderic shifted slightly before responding, his face grim. The second prince, Aldrin, is less inclined to war. Hes more interested in art, culture, and diplomacy, which gives him the potential to maintain peace within the kingdom. But hes too easily swayed by outside influences, particularly the kingdom of his mother, Second Queen Josebell. The ministers from her homeland whisper in his ear, and he listens. Too much. While he might keep the kingdom stable, hes also at risk of being controlled by external forces. Sullivan approached another plant, this one a delicate vine with broad, colourful leaves that twisted in every direction. It was beautiful, sprawling across half the garden. He crouched next to it, tracing the wayward stems with a tired hand. Aldrins like this vine, he said. It proliferates, covers a lot of ground, and looks beautiful. But without guidance, it spreads everywhere, consuming everything around it. And worse, it allows other plants to cling to it, using it to grow taller, stealing its light. Roderic understood. Yes, Your Majesty. Prince Aldrin could hold the throne, but he might let others those with their agendasrule in his place. Sullivan stood up again. And the first prince? What about him? This time, Roderic hesitated. The silence stretched for a moment as the knight seemed to rethink his words. Finally, he spoke. The first prince, Eldric, is unique. Hes an above-average Mage and skilled at diplomacy. He knows how to present himself, to play the game of politics. Many in the court see him as a potential ruler, and he has the support of the Archine Tower. His connections there give him a significant advantage. Sullivans eyes darkened as he finished the knights thought. But hes the puppet of my wife. That psychotic woman. Roderics nod was almost imperceptible. Yes, Your Majesty. Giving him the throne would be giving the First Queen, Regina control of the kingdom. Its what shes wanted all along. Many of Eldrics decisions, his actions theyre not his own. They come from her. Its much worse than most people assume. The influence she holds over him is complete. The king walked toward the fountain, its gentle trickle now sounding much louder in the silence between them. He gazed into the water, seeing his reflection and wondering how things had come to this. His youngest was reckless, his middle son easily manipulated, and his eldest his eldest was nothing more than a pawn in a greater scheme. The kingdom he had fought so hard to protect now felt as if it were slipping through his fingers. Sullivan crouched by a small tree near the waters edge, a twisted trunk with leaves that never fully bloomed, stunted in growth despite its strong roots. Eldrics like this tree, he said softly. Strong roots, but stunted by something unseen. No matter how much sunlight it gets, no matter how much water it never fully grows. The king stood, the weariness of fifty years of rule bearing down on his shoulders. Shes been playing this game for decades. Setting pieces in motion. But I wont let her win. Roderic remained silent, though the unsaid understanding passed between them. The Queens influence was a problem they all knew, but none dared confront. None, except for Sullivan himself. The king turned to his knight, his voice hardening. The kingdom needs a ruler, Roderic. Not a puppet. And I wont let it fall into her hands. This entire conversation felt as if he was confirming his thoughts and talking to himself, but only, Roderic was another voice talking back at him. The knight bowed slightly, his respect for the king evident in his gaze. What do you plan to do, Your Majesty? Sullivan didnt answer immediately. Instead, he looked out over his garden, at the plants that both flourished and struggled under his care. The kingdom was no different. He knew now that his decision was inevitable. He traced his fingers along the delicate stem of the tree before him, the one that had reminded him of his firstborn son, Eldric. He was brilliant once But her obsessionthat womans obsession has ruined him far worse than I ever couldve imagined. And now, its too late for me to intervene. He pointed to the tree. You know the funny thing about this tree, he said with a wry smile. Sometimes, this type of tree will start to devour everything around him. It happens rarely, but when it does, the tree grows into a man eater. I wonder if that will happen to my son. Though, I doubt it. The knight, Roderic, said nothing, standing quietly at attention. It wasnt his place to offer opinions on such things, not without being asked directly. He had served King Sullivan long enough to know when the king needed silence. Sullivan moved to another section of the garden, his eyes scanning over the carefully tended plants. He paused near a small, blooming flower, its petals a vibrant red. As he bent to touch the soil, he spoke again, his voice more casual this time. You know, Roderic, I was actually about to give up my throne. Roderics brow furrowed slightly in surprise but remained silent, listening. I was going to announce Eldric as the crown prince, Sullivan continued. Even with that crazed woman lurking, I knew I had to make a decision soon. And honestly, I didnt think shed live forever. Announcing a crown prince would give us time, wouldnt it? But Eldric he failed my test. Roderic blinked, finally compelled to ask, What test, Your Majesty? King Sullivan smirked, pulling up a few weeds around the base of a plant. You know of the beast wave in the Sylvan Enclave? The knight nodded. Yes, Your Majesty. I gave him the chance to prove himself, to be a hero, to help that boy Arzan. Sullivans tone grew sharper. It was the perfect opportunity for him to secure his position, but what did he do? He turned his back on it. Instead, he got tangled up in some scheme with the newly crowned Duke. I dont fault him for it entirelynobility is always about choosing the better option but in doing so, he burned the bridge with Arzan. A good king would have played both sides till they were sure of who to choose. He had made his decision from the start. That was the test. And he failed. The king paused, then added with a chuckle, You know the funny part? S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Roderic tilted his head. What is it, Your Majesty? Sullivan stood, dusting his hands off. Arzan defeated the beast wave. Without major contributions from the crown or any noble house. Only Duke Blackwood helped him. The report I received from Veralt is one of the most interesting things Ive read in years. It seems my wife will be furious when she hears of it. Shes hated Valkyrie ever since well, that day. And Arzan earned her ire since he was born. It would increase significantly now. The king smirked. I never expected that boy to grow like this. I thought his path ended long ago. But some plants some plants tend to flourish even in wastelands. Sullivan stopped in front of another plant, an odd one, a twisted vine that bloomed in unexpected directions. You know, Veridia and her tower are going to regret making an enemy out of him. With the combat feats Im hearing about, shell be kicking herself soon enough. He turned back to Roderic, his gaze sharp. Where do you place defeating a beast wave on ones own, in terms of achievements? Roderic didnt hesitate in giving out an answer. Being a knight for so long, he knew how tough it was to hold off a beast wave. Its on par with the highest honors a noble can achieve in a war. The beasts would have killed thousands if not more. Baron Arzans efforts should certainly be rewarded. The king stroked his beard, contemplating. Yes. He should. He walked toward the fountain, where a soft mist filled the air. You remember the late Duke Kellius? He had two territories meant for his sons who would lose the succession. The second one never accepted his inheritance. Ive heard its fallen into disrepair. The knight nodded, already sensing where this was heading. I believe Arzan will do well with that land. It''s close to his current territory, Sullivan declared. And if hes to be responsible for more territory, hell need a higher title to match. Count Arzan that doesnt sound bad, does it? Roderic straightened, understanding his orders. Ill inform the ministers immediately. The king waved him off. Go. As Roderic left, King Sullivan found his gaze drifting toward a corner of the garden, moving from each plant he used to describe his three heirs to the throne. There, among the more ordinary plants, sat a single one that glowed brighter than any other even the very three he took an example of. Its leaves shimmered with life, its stem standing strong amidst the rest. It wasnt the largest or the most imposing, but it was undeniably the most striking. Sullivan felt drawn to it, as though the plant was calling for his attention. He sighed, turning away from the garden. In this kingdom, as with his plants, survival often depended on resilience. But sometimes, those who grew in the most unlikely places were the ones who thrived the most. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Volume 2 Epilogue 2 A pair of silver eyes shone beneath the starry night sky, their reflection tracing the patterns of constellations overhead. A soft breeze rustled the treetops, carrying the scents of the ancient forest. Above, the stars twinkled like distant gems, and on a night such as this, the twin moons and distant planets were also visible. The chosen nightan auspicious alignment was perfect. It was why Valeirith, the elven elder of the Leththae tribe, had selected it for her yearly ritual. Her hand tightened around the smooth wood of her staff, dark veins pulsing as it hummed with energy. Valeirith moved gracefully, waving her staff through the air, a shimmering light following her movements when she did. Around her, the air crackled with power, and from the shadows, dark spirits began to emergespectral figures twisting and writhing in a macabre dance. These were the Eirethals, spirits bound to the natural world, summoned by her will. They spiralled upward into the sky, and with a silent command from Valeirith, they shot like arrows into the sky. Moments later, the stars themselves began to move. At first, they shifted lazily, as if stirred by some unseen force. Then, one by one, they detached from their celestial positions, floating downwards like falling embers. Yet they never touched the ground. Instead, they hovered in the air, orbiting around her in slow, careful circles. Her eyes narrowed as she watched the spectacle unfold. The floating stars clashed with one another, sending out sparks of light in every direction. Each collision created a shower of energy that rained down around her, yet the sparks dissipated before they could harm her. Valeiriths expression remained serene as she continued to observe, knowing that these early clashes were merely the beginning. The energy was still in its nascent state, unbridled. Soon, the chaos would grow. More stars would collide, their violent interactions producing even greater flashes of destruction. The stars were forming a constellation. Her heart sank as the familiar pattern emerged a shape of doom written in the cosmos. Styx, a constellation that foretold death and destruction. The jagged lines, connecting the fallen stars, painted a nightmarish image of chaos. It was a sign. One she had seen many times before, but this time, its significance felt heavier. The world, her world, was on a path to destruction. The signs were all there. The prophecy, foretold generations ago, was unfolding before her very eyes. Valeirith took a slow breath, her shoulders drooping at what she had just seen. Would the end truly come? Was this fate inevitable, or could it still be avoided? A long sigh escaped her lips as she stared into the swirling vortex of clashing stars above. The Styx shifted, growing fiercer. She had hopedno, she had prayed that the prophecy would never come to pass. But the signs had already begun to manifest. She could no longer deny it. The end of their world had already started. But then, just as her despair threatened to overwhelm her, something caught her attention. Out of the corner of her eye, a subtle shift in the starry sky drew her gaze. A small, lone star. It didnt move like the others. It wasnt part of the Styx. Instead, it stood apart, shining brightly against the backdrop of cosmic chaos. Valeiriths breath hitched. Her gaze remained locked onto the lone star, her eyes widening as something unbelievable began to happen. Her once serene face shifted, lips parting in disbelief. She couldnt tear her eyes away. The star, defying all the chaos and destruction around it, began to pull smaller, dimmer stars into its orbit. One by one, they were drawn to its light, their pale glow brightening as they clustered together, forming a new pattern against the night sky. It was subtle at first, but as the stars aligned, a shape began to emerge. Not a shape of ruin, not like the Styx, but something entirely different. Something that stood tall and resilient in the face of chaos. Her breath caught in her throat as the constellation completed itself, a figure of defiance glowing proudly in the night. It radiated an energy that felt ancient yet full of promise as if it had been waiting for this moment for ages. Valeiriths voice trembled as she whispered, "Fatebreaker..." The word escaped her lips like a long-buried secret. A name not spoken in centuries, a symbol of those who dared to stand against destiny itself. Her heart pounded in her chest as the realization settled over her. The starno, the Fatebreaker was more than just a sign. It was a call. An anomaly, a force that challenged the inevitable doom foretold by the Styx. "I must reach it or him..." she muttered, watching the night sky till her magic faded away. *** Zuri, barely seven summers old, crept down the stairs as quietly as her tiny feet would allow. She glanced over her shoulder, making sure her mother wasnt nearby. The midday light filtered through the windows, giving way to a warm glow on the wooden floor, but she was more interested in what lay outside. She reached for the door handle, her fingers barely brushing it, when "Where do you think you''re going, young lady?" Her mother''s voice rang out from behind, causing her to freeze mid-action. Zuri turned slowly, an innocent smile already plastered on her face. "I''m going out, mother. My studies are done!" she replied, her tone light and carefree. She didnt want to come out as suspicious to her mother, in case she refused to permit to go outside. She did it often and it wasn''t once they Zuri liked it. Her mother crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. "Make sure you''re back in an hour. And dont go near that old noble house again, you hear me?" "I wont!" Zuri chirped, her fingers already reaching for the door as she flashed her mother a reassuring grin. Satisfied, her mother turned back to her chores, sweeping the floor with aggression and the need to finish it soon. With that, the girl bolted out of the house, the wind catching her hair as she rushed down the steps and onto the village path. The village of Eden was small, with stone cottages dotting the landscape, their thatched roofs framed by the rolling hills beyond. She waved to the familiar faces of villagersMs. Maeve, who always gave her sweets, Uncle Tarn, who was often seen napping on his porch and continued on her way, her feet carrying her to her secret destination. Her favourite place. The old house stood at the far edge of the village, its once proud stone walls now crumbled in places, and ivy crawling up its sides like hungry vines. She had heard stories about the house so many times, people had talked about how it was one where nobles lived and enjoyed the luxuries but then, something terrible happened and the family who had lived there had long since left, moving to a distant city, or so the rumours said. But to her, it was the perfect playground. The adults always talked about it like it was dangerous, but she loved its quiet, the mystery that lingered in the air like a forgotten secret. She darted through the narrow alleys, her heart racing with excitement. The familiar worn door to the house groaned as she pushed it open, dust swirling in the dim light. Inside, she felt at ease this was her place. She loved the creaky stairs, the hollow sound of her steps as she climbed them, the way the wooden beams groaned under her weight. It was all part of the charm. Carefully, she moved to the second floor, where the rooms were scattered with old furniture and forgotten belongings. She entered one of the biggest ones and hummed quietly to herself, running her fingers over an old dresser as she explored, just like she had done so many times before. But then, a squeak echoed through the silence. She froze. Her heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, her legs refused to move. The sound had come from the far corner of the room. The voice of her mother rang in her head, telling her to go back. She had done enough exploring for today and didn''t need to check out who the sound had come from, but then, Zuri knew she wouldn''t be able to sleep well if she didn''t find out what it was. Curiosity won over fear. She tiptoed toward the noise, her breath held in anticipation. Peeking around a toppled bookshelf, she saw it. It was a rat. Sear?h the NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Immediately, her curiosity quenched and she began to move backbut as her eyes focused, she realized something was wrong. The rat was completely black, from its twitching nose to its tail. Not just a dark grey like the ones shed seen before, but pitch black, as though it had crawled out of the shadows themselves. Worse, it emitted a foul, rotting stench that made her wrinkle her nose. She took a step back as the rat''s small, beady eyes locked onto her. It stopped for a second, its nose twitching in the air. Her legs shook, but she couldnt move. Slowly, the rat began to crawl toward her, faster and faster. Her heart raced, panic setting in as she stumbled back, her foot catching on a broken floorboard. She fell hard onto the ground, the impact knocking the breath out of her lungs. Before she could scramble to her feet, the rat was there, its nose brushing against her skin as it sniffed her. She wanted to scream, but the sound was stuck in her throat. Then, without warning, it bit down on her ankle. Pain shot through her leg, sharp and burning. She cried out, her voice echoing through the empty house. The rat darted away, disappearing into the shadows as quickly as it had appeared. Tears welled up in her eyes as she clutched her ankle. The pain was overwhelming, but as she looked down at the bite, something far worse sent a chill down her spine. Her skin around the bite mark was turning black dark, inky veins spreading outward like the roots of a twisted tree. The blackness crawled up her leg, cold and sinister, and she stared at it, wide-eyed, too shocked to move. The world around her seemed to fade, her breaths coming out in ragged gasps. She didnt know what was happening, but she knew one thing for sure. Something was very, very wrong. *** A/N - Vol 2 end. For those who haven''t checked out our new book Dao of money, please do it if you feel interested in the premise. Thank you for reading. Vol 3 starts with the next update. Volume 3 chapter 119 Rolling hills and the dense trees caught Killians eyes as he stood on top of the half-reconstructed wall along with a few other workers, who kept themselves accompanied by different tasks that were assigned to them, Killian couldnt bother to pay less heed than they deserved his eyes stayed glued to the hills. Deep scars from the recent encounter with the beasts now marred the once-vibrant greenery. Patches of scorched earth, fallen trees, and the eerie silence that lingered as a spectre reminded him of just how close death had been. A month ago, beasts had torn through the land, leaving nothing but ruins and the loss of people who put their lives forward to save the city. They left a kind of ruin that swallowed hope and dragged you into the abyss of fear. His fingers traced the rough stone beneath him, still in the process of being laid anew. Just a month ago, he had stood in this very spot, heart pounding, as the monstrous roars echoed from the hills, thinking he would never see another sunrise Putting out a fake brave front to hide away his feelings of terror and unease. A brave front to shower hope to any and every person who looked up to him, and that meant more than half of the guards who trained under him. it was quite a funny thing to even ponder over. There had been moments in that battle when the gnashing teeth and ripping claws came too close when the force of a beast''s swipe had sent him flying, bones cracking under the impact. He had accepted his death more times than he could count felt it in his chest, in the desperate breathlessness of battle. But somehow, here he was. The bruises that once marred his body were nothing more than faded memories, and the deeper wounds had healed into scars, mementoes of survival carved into his skin. He was alive, and that was something he still grappled with. His gaze shifted from the forest to the bustling scene below. Labourers moved quickly, their faces streaked with sweat and dirt, but there was no panic in their steps, no fear weighing down their shoulders. New tents dotted the landscape, homes for the refugees who had fled from villages that no longer existed. The village rebuilding project hadnt even started yetthe sheer devastation of them made it a hard task but the refugees had found ways to survive, to keep pushing forward. Temporary shelters had sprung up in organised rows, crude but functional, their patched roofs waving lazily in the breeze. And the people. Killians brow furrowed as he observed the villagers. They worked with smiles on their faces, laughing together as if the horrors of the beast wave were already long behind them. It was strange, almost unsettling. Just weeks ago, these same people had been inches from death, their homes destroyed, their families scattered. And yet here they were, chattering away as if everything was fine. As if they hadnt faced down the jaws of annihilation. Resilient, he muttered under his breath, the word barely audible. Or foolish, he thought, but he couldnt deny the strength in their smiles. The human spirit had a strange way of bouncing back, even when crushed. His hand unconsciously brushed over the hilt of his sword, the cool metal grounding him in the present. They werent safe, not yet. They had more enemies than just the beasts, and the walls were still only half-finished. But standing there, amidst the noise of construction, surrounded by the laughter of survivors, it felt like they were on the verge of something recovery, maybe. Or at least a reprieve. And for now, that was enough. Killians thoughts wandered back to the man responsible for their survival. Even if he wanted to deny it, there was no escaping the truth it had all been possible because of one man. The strategies, the reinforcements, the uncanny ability to lead even when hope had been nothing but a distant flicker. Without him, Killian doubted theyd still be here, rebuilding instead of mourning. As his mind lingered on that thought, a familiar voice broke his concentration. You look like a man with a lot on his mind. It was Francis. Killian turned to the older man, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Francis had been the castles administrator for ages, a man of paperwork and logistics, but in the past few months, he had become something more an unexpected friend. They had talked about a lot during these rebuilding efforts, from the trivial to the heavy, and Killian had come to respect the older mans wisdom and dry humour. Nothing unpleasant, Killian replied, leaning his elbows against the wall. Just thinking about everything thats happened the past few months. Francis let out a low chuckle, his hands rubbing circles in his stomach. Pretty wild, isnt it? Most exciting period of my career, without a doubt. Never thought Id be caught up in all this beast waves, refugees, and war councils. He paused, his eyes twinkling with something akin to admiration. You know, it does make me thinksometimes, one man is enough to change the tides of war. A single spark can start a wildfire, as they say. That man Well, we both know who Im talking about. Killian nodded, his thoughts drifting back to the one who had steered them through the storm. A spark, indeed. Sure is, Killian said, his voice thoughtful. Lord Arzans changed so much, its hard to think of him as the person I once served under. Hearing his words, Franciss expression tightened into a complicated mix of concern and something unspoken. A slight frown appeared on his face. Are you thinking back to that same conversation again? Killian sighed, glancing away. It was a topic they had circled back to many times in the past few months. No matter how much they tried to avoid it, neither of them could keep it bottled up for long. Talking it out always felt like a relief, even though it also carried the weight of fear fear of what it meant to doubt their lord, even just a little. Yeah, Killian admitted, his tone heavy. It always comes to my mind. Ive seen people change, but never like this. I wouldve chalked it up to rumours, or the usual gossip, but its not that. Francis remained silent, waiting for him to continue. Lord Arzan doesnt even remember much from his childhood anymore. When he asked me about Count Chases son, Reyk Killian said, thinking back to the man who had lost embarrassingly back in the capitalthats when I was sure something was different. Really different. He shook his head, still processing it himself. Hes exceptional now. Those mana cannons his spell-casting its getting bizarre, Francis. You know it too. Balen told me his methods are revolutionary. Even the things he knows about the Enforcers its not normal. Facts over feelings began to dominate his thoughts as he considered Lord Arzannot just his remarkable abilities, but also the personal things he had done for him. S~ea??h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. I have skills now that can stand against a Mage. Can you believe that? Me, a Knight, fighting on equal ground with a Mage. All because of what hes taught us. Its unbelievable." Francis rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Yes, I understand. Ive thought about it a lot too. Anyone would. Lord Arzan isnt normal. But whatever secret he has, its his. We cant ask. Or do you think we should? Killian frowned. Once again, the conversation was about to end in an endless curve of curiosity. I dont know. The only thing Im sure of is that Lord Arzan is on our side. No man pushes himself to sacrifice the way he does without a larger goal or philosophy. But its the secrets that crawl at the back of my mind. Theyre always there. Francis nodded slowly, his gaze drifting toward the horizon where the sun began its lazy climb to its peak, casting a golden glow over the rebuilt tents and the forest beyond. I get it, believe me. But Im an administrator, Killian. I handle problems I can see, measure, and fix. Problems that I can calculate and get an answer to. This this is something different. Maybe you should talk to him. Clear the air. Ive been thinking about it, Killian admitted, exhaling deeply. But I feel like if I try to, something might change. And not necessarily for the better. Maybe, Francis agreed, then paused mid-sentence. His eyes narrowed as he looked out into the distance, where a figure was approaching fast. Hold on Killian followed his gaze and spotted a lone rider approaching. A man on horseback galloped toward the wall, kicking up dust as the horses hooves pounded against the dry earth. The man was moving too fast as if he had finally found the place he had been looking for days. Who do you think that is? Francis asked, his brow furrowed. A traveller? A merchant? Killian squinted, and then his eyes widened slightly as he noticed the rich, flowing robes the man wore with his enhanced eyesight. No, he said, his voice dropping. I believe its someone more important. Look at his robes those are the kind I saw in the castle. The ministers wear those. Or those working directly under them. Franciss posture straightened, his casual demeanour quickly shifting to something more serious. "Then we should find out what message hes bringing, he said quietly, watching the rider come ever closer. *** Kai stood in the quiet graveyard, his eyes moving over the rows of simple graves marked with stones. Each one bore the name of someone who had fallen during the beast wavea reminder of lives cut short in the chaos. His expression was measured, though sadness lingered at the corners of his eyes. He sauntered, the weight of loss evident in the way his shoulders sagged. Stopping in front of a grave where the dirt had caked over the marker, Kai raised his hand, casting [Cleanse Touch], which was a first circle wind spell to cleanse a particular area. A soft, blue glow enveloped his fingers as he cast the spell, cleaning the grime and debris from the stone. He repeated the process as he moved among the graves, each action slow but intentional, as if his touch might somehow bring a measure of peace to the dead. The air was heavy with silence, broken only by the rustling of leaves, the hum of his magic or whenever he stepped on one of the dried leaves that fell from the trees that surrounded the grave. Behind him, Claire followed him like a shadow. Lord Arzan it wasnt your fault that they passed away, she said softly, her voice gentle but firm. Kai paused, lowering his hand after finishing another spell. I know, he replied, his tone steady but tinged with regret. It was a battle. Things happen. People die. But guilt He pressed his lips together. Guilt remains. He stepped forward, brushing his fingers along the edge of a headstone. I come here to lessen it. We have already compensated their families, made sure they have less burdens, but lives are still lost. Claires brow furrowed as she glanced over at him. But its the third day youve been here, she pointed out, her tone soft yet insistent. Kais eyes didnt leave the grave before him as he answered, I have that much guilt. The quiet between them thickened, only broken by the occasional flicker of magic as he continued cleaning the graves. His movements were slower now, as though even the simple spells were becoming taxing. He felt Caire glanced at him, noting the subtle wince that crossed his face with each cast. Since getting out of bedrest a week ago, Kai had thrown himself into every task that required his attention, and his recovery took a backseat. His Mana heartfractured from the strain of his last battle was still healing, and every spell he cast sent a dull ache through his chest, almost as if someone was squeezing it from the inside, ever so gently but the nails scratched a part that hurt. His goal was to reach the fourth circle, but the road ahead felt longer than ever, and every use of magic reminded him of just how fragile his Mana heart had become. As he cast yet another spell to clean the graves, he felt the familiar twinge of pressure in his chest. His hand faltered slightly, but he gritted his teeth and pushed through, finishing the spell structure with a calm exterior that masked the strain within. He wasnt ready to stop. Not yet. Not until the graves were clean. After making sure the last bit of them was clean, Kai turned away from the graves, his movements deliberate and slow. Claire was waiting by the carriage, her arms folded as she watched him approach. Lord Arzan, we should hurry. You haven''t had breakfast yet, she said, her tone gentle. I was thinking of heading back to work, Kai started, but Claire interrupted, her voice firm but kind. You shouldnt, not yet. You just recovered. I know you said you can live on mana for a long time, but its still good to eat. Kai felt his stomach rumble remembering the barely touched dinner last night. He nodded, conceding to her logic, and climbed into the carriage. As it rolled forward, he glanced out the window, his gaze catching the occasional wave from the people or curious glances from those on the streets. They all knew whose carriage this was by now due to his frequent visits to different parts of the city. But as his eyes moved to the roads and crumbling buildings, his thoughts darkened again. The city wasnt in good shape. Despite the beast wave not causing extensive damage, it was clear that the infrastructure had been deteriorating long before the attack. Rebuilding efforts had been delayed, overshadowed by battles and other urgent matters. He hadnt managed to address it yet, and guilt gnawed at him Again. That needed to change. To distract himself from spiralling thoughts of responsibility, he turned his attention to Claire. So, has she not woken up yet? Hows her health? Claire immediately understood who he was talking about and shook her head, her expression softening. Not yet. But her condition is stable. I believe Amyra will wake up any moment." Kai sighed, leaning back in his seat. I hope so, he murmured, his thoughts heavy with worry and confusion. Worry, because the road to recovery was long, not just for him but for those who had been caught in the storm with him. Confusion, due to something Killian had mentioned. He had told him about the strange powers shed unleashed during the beast wave how her magic had dispelled not just the fiends, but every beast in the area, scattering them like leaves in the wind. Yet, no one knew what kind of spell it was, not even Kai. He had never encountered anything like it in all his studies, and Amyra herself shouldnt have had access to such advanced magic. The questions churned in his mind until the sights became a blur, but they would remain unanswered till the time she woke up. A shuffle of the carriage, stumbling upon a stone broke him out of his trance of thoughts as he looked outside. They had already approached the gates, he sat up, his hand resting on the window frame. They arrived at the entrance, and as he stepped down, he immediately spotted Francis and Killian standing together with a man he didnt recognize. The two of them turned to look at him, but something was off. Their expressions were strange as if they had just heard something that had shaken them to their core. Kais eyes narrowed slightly, scanning the unknown figure before meeting Killians gaze. Whats going on? - Hey everyone we crossed 6k! Close to 7000. now! Thank you so much. Please keep supporting and liking the novel. If anyone wants to buy my patreon or join my discord server, here are the links. By the way we crossed a million views! Thank you so much! Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 120. Count Arzan The heavy oak doors creaked open as Kai, Killian, and Francis entered the main office. The walls were lined with towering shelves of scrolls and records, yet the fourth man following them seemed more interested in the dcor than its contents. His eyes flicked from tapestry to crest with an almost childlike curiosity, though he kept his hands respectfully clasped in front of him. Kai sat behind the broad desk, the worn wood familiar under his fingers. Killian and Francis remained standing, silent pillars of attention at his sides. The man who had introduced himself as a herald lowered his head, bowing deeply before speaking. "I am Teran Hale, royal herald of His Majesty King Sullivan," he began, his voice steady, but reverent. "By the decree of our sovereign, I bear tidings for Lord Arzan Kellius." Kai blinked once, his brow barely lifting as Teran retrieved a parchment from his pouch, unrolling it with an expert flick of his wrist. The heralds voice rang out in the chamber, clear and formal as he read the words of the decree. "By order of King Sullivan, Lord FArzan Kellius is hereby granted dominion over the city of Veridis of Sylvan enclave and its surrounding territories for his unparalleled bravery in defending against the beast wave. Henceforth, he shall be named Count Arzan of Veralt." Kais fingers tightened on the armrests of his chair, a slight twitch betraying his calm facade. He expected recognition, sure, perhaps some land. But a title an actual countship? That was no small gift. Countships were scarce, each one a cornerstone of the kingdoms power structure. A new count meant the balance was shifting. Teran continued, unaware of Kai''s quiet shock. "In addition to the city of Verdis, His Majesty bestows upon you a blade forged from Valon steelcrafted by the finest hands in the realmand a sum of twenty-five thousand gold crowns for your continued service." Kai leaned back, trying to suppress the flood of thoughts. A sword made from Valon steel... and that much gold? His mind raced. He had expected a reward for the beast wave victory, but nothing this grand. Only a dozen counts existed in the entire Lancephil kingdom. To be named one so swiftly meant this wasnt just recognition it was political. Was it for him to aid one of his sons? Was it something else? Maybe, it was because Kai was starting to make a case for himself as a Mage? Or the capital had already heard of his mana cannons and wanted a part in it? Possibilities were endless. But he knew one thing King Sullivan, whom Kai had dismissed as idle, must have been more cunning than hed assumed. Kai glanced at Killian and Francis, their stoic expressions beginning to shift as they processed Teran''s words. Meanwhile, the herald folded the parchment back with precision, still standing straight, awaiting acknowledgement. A title, a city, and enough wealth to recover from the beast wave easily. But at what cost? Kai couldnt help but let his mind wander about what was about to come. The room felt heavier somehow, but before he could process further, Francis and Killian moved forward. They bowed low, their voices steady but touched with pride. "Lord Arzan," Francis said with a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. "We knew this day would come. Your strength has always been beyond that of others, and now your leadership will shape this territory and the others for the better." Killian, less prone to compliments, gave a respectful nod. "Verdis will prosper under your rule just as Veralt, Count Arzan. Theres no doubt about that. As your Knight, it''s my honour to serve and protect you." Kai nodded, muttering a quick, "Thanks." But his thoughts remained tangled in the complexity of the moment. Verdis was his now not just in title, but in all its weight and responsibility. He knew of the city because of its proximity to Veralt and because he had sent a letter asking for help in the beast wave. No reply had come back, so he had simply assumed the leadership there was with Lucian, but now, the city was his. Still, something nagged at him. His gaze drifted back to the herald, Teran, who stood patient as ever. "So," Kai began, leaning forward slightly. "I understand the process of gaining territory. But I was under the impression that becoming a count required a formal swearing-in at the capital. Isn''t that the way it''s done?" Teran straightened, eyes gleaming with the efficiency of a seasoned messenger. "Typically, yes. It is tradition for one to travel to the capital and be sworn in by the royal court. However, there are exceptions, especially in times of urgency. King Sullivan, understanding the trials your territory just endured, deemed it necessary for you to remain here. The citys recovery must be your primary focus." Kais eyebrow raised in mild surprise. That was... considerate. He had assumed the king would demand formality, but this was a rare show of flexibility. "In such cases," Teran continued. "We conduct the ceremony within the lords city. A public parade after the formal granting of the title in front of the people. It is an opportunity to show the commoners their lords accomplishments and to solidify their new position among other nobles. His Majesty requests that the ceremony be held by the end of the week, should it not trouble you." Kai rubbed his forehead, weighing the implications. A ceremony... it would inevitably turn into a feast, a celebration that would stretch long into the night. Not to mention the logistics of organising something so grand on such short notice. Theyd just had a round of feasts last month, marking the victory over the beast wave. But then again, he hadnt attended any of those. Hed been too busy fortifying defences, overseeing repairs, and planning for the future. Maybe this was his chance to finally engage with the people after long hours of making them work for the beast wave, to lay the groundwork for his vision of his territorys future. And if it became an event everyone talked about, it would be the perfect moment to make his plans public. Kai let out a soft sigh, his mind already mapping out the possibilities. "Alright," he said, nodding to Teran. "We''ll do the ceremony by the weeks end. Lets make sure it''s something the people wont forget. Well arrange everything. For now, please stay in the estate," he said, motioning for Francis. "Show our guest to one of the rooms and arrange everything necessary for him." Francis nodded and went to call a maid who was standing outside the doors. A silent exchange passed between them as the maid gave a subtle nod. The herald bowed deeply once again, and as he moved to follow the maid, Kais attention turned to Killian and Francis. The contrast between their expressions was stark both men looked far more excited than he felt. "I never thought Id live to see Veralt become a county," Francis muttered, his voice thick with emotion. "To think Im alive for this moment..." Kai cut him off before he could get lost in his sentiments. "This isn''t the time to celebrate, Francis. Once its announced that Veralt is a county, the entire kingdoms eyes will be on us. We need to prepare thoroughly. Im certain the major nobles are already aware of this. Duke Blackwood for example why do you think his knight and company are still hanging around? He might have informed them already." Francis stiffened, nodding quickly as he wiped at his eyes, trying to mask the sudden sentimentality. "Of course. Youre right." Kai shifted his gaze to Killian, trying to change the attention to another topic that might help them out in the swearing-in ceremony. "What about the team I asked you to gather?" Sar?h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "We''re in the process of it," Killian responded, his usual stoic expression hiding the excitement that clearly buzzed under the surface. "Ansel came forward to volunteer as the leader. I think hed be a good fit." Kai nodded thoughtfully. Ansel... the man from the sand tribes, who had been with them for some time now. He was steady, competent, and knew how to lead. Moreover, he had the knowledge, passion and drive to always improve, even with his personal achievements. "Ill trust your judgement. Just make sure that every member of that team is someone we can trust. Vet their backgrounds. I want interviews with all of them, personally. Ill give you a set of questions to ask. Make the team ready, at least the first few members by the end of the week. I need them to observe the ceremony and see how everyone is behaving." Killian gave a curt nod, already mentally planning the steps. Kai turned back to Francis. "I know youll be swamped with preparations for the ceremony, but once thats out of the way, were moving forward with the projects we discussed. Make sure we have the funds for everything. Well include the twenty-five thousand gold from King Sullivan." Francis grinned, the weight of his earlier emotions easing. "Ill make sure everything goes according to plan, Lord Arzan. We wont miss a beat." Kais expression softened slightly, though his tone remained firm. "Lets ensure this marks the beginning of something new for Veralt. No missteps." *** Princess Amara sat in front of the grand vanity, the gentle touch of her maid, Anya weaving through her hair as she gazed absentmindedly at the mirror. The glow of the setting sun bathed the room in gold, but her thoughts were elsewhere. "Baron Arzan is becoming a count," Amara said, her voice low but steady. Anya nodded as she combed through Amaras dark locks. "Yes, Your Highness. Thats what everyones saying, though only in hushed whispers. I heard it clearly. They say he survived the beast wave and defeated them, so King Sullivan is rewarding him generously." Amara frowned slightly, her reflection showing the ripple of concern she usually hid so well. "That will upset my mother terribly," she murmured, her fingers lightly tracing the wooden edge of the vanity. "Especially because my brother let him go and acted poorly with him." Amara knew Anya was always careful with her words, and gave another nod, her voice dropping to a near whisper. "Ive heard the same, Your Highness. The first prince is already trying to stay away from the palace to avoid the queens wrath." "I don''t think running away will work, but I can''t blame my brother. I understand why hes doing it." She sighed, her gaze dropping, not wanting to dwell on her mother any longer. Instead, her thoughts drifted, and she instinctively touched her chest, where the pain had once been unbearable but now, thankfully, was gone. Her mind lingered on the man who had healed herArzan. A slight ache suddenly permeated her chest. He had warned her there might be more pain to endure and that this bliss was temporary. "I''ve started feeling a little discomfort in my heart again," she confessed to her maid, her voice tinged with unease. "Arzan mentioned I might need more surgery." Anya''s hands paused briefly as she listened, then continued gently. "Do you plan to write to him again, Your Highness? Your last letter wasn''t answered." "I should," Amara replied, her fingers tracing idle patterns on her lap. "And he was busy with the beast wave. I doubt he had time to answer back. Ill write to him soon, perhaps even mention that I plan to visit for his count ceremony." The maid stopped, raising her brow in surprise. "Your Highness, I doubt youll be able to reach Veralt in time for the ceremony." Amara waved off the concern with a calm smile. "So be it. But Im going to his city. Veralt. I need to get fully healed. If anyone can make it happen, it''s him." "But what about your brother?" Anya asked cautiously. "Hell ask about your absence." "I dont care," Amara said firmly. "Its hard enough maintaining the facade of illness when Im not even sick anymore. My brother will be occupied with my mother for a while, and that gives me enough time to slip away." This is my chance to see the wider world and meet this intriguing man who saved me. I have a good feeling about it." When Amara looked at herself in the mirror, she saw her eyes glint with a sense of determination something that she hadnt felt in a really long time. Though she felt a pang of pain coming from her heart, when she thought of travelling outside the castle to explore what was beyond, the pain disappeared into the air, just like that. This was what she needed. Anya sighed at her in the mirror and finished doing her hair. *** A/N - A request. Those who are interested in xianxia and haven''t checked out my new book, please do so. I''m at Rising stars rank 3 right now and new readers and followers will help a lot. And please only do it if you are interested in the premise. No force! hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 121. Dual path Kai sat in his usual meditative position, cross-legged with his hands clenched in front of him. He controlled his breathing, inhaling and exhaling in a steady rhythm as his mana slowly circulated within him around his Mana heart. He focused on the dull, throbbing ache that came with it. He let all the air in his lungs empty before inhaling deeply, drawing ambient mana. When he exhaled, he directed that energy toward the fractures in his heart cracks that had been a painful reminder of his recent forced ascension in circles. He thought as his mana brushed against the shattered patches. Every inch of him screamed in protest at the contact, but he pressed on. It was like trying to stitch together a torn muscle without anaesthetic. He grimaced, his mind steadying against the pain. He couldn''t afford to be reckless. Too much mana at once could cause further damage; too little and the repairs wouldnt hold. Internal mana surgery an advanced technique, even by his standards- was not easy. No image in this world could have guided him through it, let alone understand the complexity of the task. The broken Mana heart required precise control, something usually performed with the help of another skilled Mage. But for Kai, no help was coming. He was alone in this, just as hed been when he thought of forcing himself to advance to the fourth circle. Slowly, ever so slowly, he nudged his mana along the cracks, weaving it into the broken patches like a thread through the fabric. The process took hours, and the effort drained him both mentally and physically, but he could feel the progress. In time, a month maybe, it''ll be whole again. he mused, thinking of the price he''d paid to take down the brood mother. A few cracks in his Mana heart were nothing compared to what could have happened. He couldve died. And in that sense, surviving was a victory in itself. Yet, despite his victory, the events had forced him to reflect on where he stood in the grand hierarchy of power. His victory over the brood mother was impressive, but it had been close too close. Magus Veridia a name that now sent a shiver down his spine after recent events felt like a growing, silent threat. Yet, silent killers had a way of becoming deafening when they finally struck. Then there was the shadowy organisation with their parasites and potions that could make a man turn into a creature far more powerful than a normal mana weaver with their details unknown, but he knew they were the ones that had helped Actra and Lucian. There were enough coincidences for him to come to such a conclusion. The threads of the organisations presence wove through everything, and Kai was certain they would have an eye on him. A frown tugged at his lips. He wasnt at the top of the mana chain of the creatures far from it. If anything, hed only scratched the surface of the middle of the mana chain. The threats around him were real, and every day they grew more apparent. His mana faltered for a moment as these thoughts came to his mind, the flow stuttering as his mind wandered to the future, away from the past. He couldnt afford to stay stagnant. Not now. He needed to grow stronger, and faster. The brood mother had been a challenge, but there were far greater foes waiting. And they wouldnt give him the luxury of time or any sort of warning. Kai sighed, knowing his focus faltered with the fear of the future. He opened his eyes and let the pain in his Mana heart subside as he settled the mana flow, thinking of ways he knew to get stronger, faster. In his previous life, the options for advancing his power had been limited. Becoming a fiend sacrificing his humanity for raw strength was the only viable route. But this time, things were different. In this life, Kai had choices, more paths to ascend than he ever thought possible. He could mutate himself, merge with monstrous blood and become a half-beast, his strength growing at the cost of his humanity. Or, he could seek out a dragon, perhaps one of the ancient remnants, and fuse his blood or bone with his. A dragon''s might, their unmatched resilience, would be his to wield. Then there were the elementals, rare and elusive. Binding one would grant him unparalleled control over mana affinities, boosting his raw magical power far beyond what most Mages could hope to achieve. But all of that seemed distant, a tantalising dream. Too far, too soon. Kai knew his limits. He wasnt strong enough to tackle those monstrous paths, nor did he possess the knowledge to hunt them down. Each route had its own perils, and without guidance or preparation, hed likely end up dead before reaching even a fraction of their potential. There was, however, one path one that was open to him right now. A path no one could close, and one hed been quietly preparing for ever since hed awakened in this world. The path of the Enforcer. His gaze shifted toward the corner of the room where his training gear lay stacked neatly. Mages and Enforcers were seen as separate Mages controlled mana with precision and intellect, while Enforcers wielded raw physical might, enhanced by mana-imbued bodies. The two disciplines were different, and their foundations conflicted. Mages like him had begun to wonder if they could be both. And theyd found answers, though at a heavy cost. The knowledge had been lost over time, forgotten in the chaos of war. But Kai remembered. He remembered every failed experiment, every triumph, every secret detail they uncovered. Which was why in this world, he wasnt just training his body to escape the stereotype of the scrawny, frail Mage. He was conditioning himself for the gruelling transformation that came with being an Enforcer-Mage. Mana wasnt the only thing that had to be tough; his muscles, bones, and even his spirit had to be forged stronger. In essence, it was about opening his vaults, unlocking latent power within. But the process came with a cost. It wasn''t as simple as training in two disciplines one focused on magic, the other on physical might. The strain on the body would be immense. Two distinct methods of growth, each demanding something different from his body. Individually, they were manageable. Together? That was a different story. Most who tried either broke down or met untimely deaths. The human body wasnt meant to endure both paths. The constant oscillation between physical power and mana refinement puts a tremendous amount of pressure on one''s essence. His body would have to support the strength of an Enforcer while still channelling the precision of a Mage. Kai knew that one wrong step would shatter him. His Mana veins could collapse, his muscles could tear, or worse, his core the very heart of his power could fracture beyond repair. The consequences of failure were high. But he had no other choice. The alternative was stagnation, and stagnation meant death. His enemies wouldnt wait for him to get stronger. Veridia and the organisation that lurked in the shadows wouldnt grant him the luxury of time. Fortunately, resources existed if one knew where to look. This world had treasures hidden beneath its surface, relics and techniques that could strengthen both body and mana without risking collapse. Things his former life hadnt had access to. Mana-infused elixirs, rare herbs that strengthened the body''s resilience, and even ancient formations designed to temper ones physique while nurturing mana. And then there were the bloodlines powerful creatures whose essence could fortify both paths simultaneously. These were the things Kai would seek. His lips curled into a small smile. The knowledge he held, combined with the resources of this new world, gave him an advantage. If he was careful, if he planned each step precisely, he could walk both paths and emerge stronger than anyone had ever imagined. The road ahead wasnt easy, but then again, nothing worth having ever was. Kai''s mind churned with possibilities. among many possibilities, he knew that if he was truly going to pursue the path of both Mage and Enforcer, he needed to solidify his body and make it unbreakable. And there was one way he knew of that suited him that best The Elder Tree Concoction. The mixture, derived from the roots of the ancient Elder Tree that was a source of mana itself, was said to have the power to break down the body completely, only to remake it stronger each time. It was dangerous, and excruciatingly painful, but it was a tried and true path to gaining an unbreakable physique. A Battlemage once managed it, back when the Elder Tree still lived, and his feats were legendary. . The Elder Tree was still alive. But it was under the protection of the elves, a race known for their unyielding dedication to their sacred guardian. Getting anywhere near the tree was going to be an uphill battle. The elves wouldnt let anyone close, especially not for something as selfish as harvesting its roots. Kai sighed, pushing the thought away for now. It was a path, but one riddled with complications. Another problem for another day. He stood up, his muscles tense from the hours of meditation. Sweat clung to his skin, his body still recovering from the strain of working on his Mana heart. The ache in his chest had lessened, but the exhaustion lingered. He wiped his brow and moved toward his wardrobe, pulling on a fresh set of clothes. As he adjusted the sleeves, there was a knock at the door. "Lord Arzan," Claire''s voice came from the other side. "Rhea, Klan, and Feroy are waiting for you. Theyre ready to depart for Vasper Forest." Kais gaze flicked to the window, the early morning sun now high enough to cast long shadows across the floor. He had nearly lost track of time. "Tell them Ill be there in a bit," he called back, his mind already shifting to the task ahead. *** The cadenced strike of hooves against the damp, uneven forest floor filled the air as Kai led his group through the Vasper Forest. Rhea sat behind him, arms lightly wrapped around his waist for balance, her breath calm despite the tension that hung in the air. Klan and Feroy followed on horseback, the sound of their mounts cutting through the stillness. The forest which was once lush and serene, bore the scars of the recent battle marks of the beasts. Trees lay broken, their trunks splintered and decaying, the aftermath of powerful creatures crashing through. Shredded bark and deep claw marks etched into the trunks gave evidence of what passed these trees. The scent of wet earth and faint traces of lingering mana from past confrontations still lingered in the air. Even so, there was an eerie quietness now, as if the forest itself was holding its breath. Kais eyes scanned the area, alert to any sign of corruption or mana disturbances. As they rode deeper, he leaned slightly to his right, speaking just loud enough for the others to hear over the steady thrum of their pace. "So, frays said they havent noticed any areas of corruption?" Feroy, riding just behind, grunted in confirmation. "No, not yet. A group of our scouts are moving with them, checking the entire forest. But it''s slow going... the deeper they go, the denser it gets. Itll take more time." "If theres any corruption, we need to deal with it before it spreads. We can''t afford another problem so soon after the beast wave." Klan cleared his throat after staying silent for a while and leaned forward in his saddle. "Lord Arzan, why are we here today, then? Weve scouted this area before. Whats the purpose?" Kai looked at him for a brief second and gave a subtle smile, so slight it barely touched his face. The Mages from Archine Tower hadn''t returned yet though it seemed none of them were eager to leave. After witnessing their own progress, they chose to remain, offering to assist with the post-war efforts. He knew it wasn''t just that. There was a spy among them, but from what they had investigated, Klan was innocent. I wanted to check a few things in the dungeon, he said, his voice calm but edged with a subtle warning. Its important to be wary of what the brood mother might have left behind. It didnt go down without a fight, and I doubt its influence has vanished entirely. Klans brow furrowed as he glanced over at Rhea, riding closely behind Kai. Then why is she here? Rhea looks too young and... well, weak. Kai could imagine Rheas eyes flared with irritation, her lips pressing into a thin line, a normal reaction he had noticed whenever someone doubted her capabilities. It had happened before, while they were training. But Kai only heard her huff before she spoke, "I can handle myself," she shot back, barely keeping her voice in check. Kais tone was steady but firm as he interjected. Shes here because shes my apprentice, Klan. I dont think youve heard of her before because everyone was too busy during the battle, but Rhea was there, helping out. And shes here now because I want to start her combat training once we go through the dungeon. Klans eyes widened, darting between Kai and Rhea in surprise. Apprentice? Rhea let out a laugh through her nose at Klans reaction, her earlier annoyance clearly fading into satisfaction. Klan, still stunned, rubbed the back of his neck, holding the saddle with one hand. Could... could I be your apprentice too? Kai smirked, shaking his head. I wont have time for another one, Klan. Its already going to be tough training Rhea. Klans shoulders sagged, the hint of dejection visible as he slumped in his saddle. But before the silence stretched too long, Kai added, That doesnt mean I wont teach you more things. Once weve settled down and agreed on a few things, Ill help you improve. Klans face lit up instantly. Ill agree to anything. Kai chuckled softly, the mood between them lightening. Well see. Their horses pressed onward, and soon the sound of rushing water filled the air, growing louder as they neared a familiar landmark the stream where the battle with the necromancer had taken place a year ago. Mist from the flowing water cooled the air, and the ground was damp beneath their horses'' hooves. Unlike their last visit, when the bitter cold made it hard to appreciate, the stream now flowed clearly, making the scene feel both serene and surreal after all that had happened. Kai slowed his mount, his gaze lingering on the landscape, memories of the skeletons flashing through his mind. Rhea leaned forward, curiosity evident in her tone. Is the dungeon here? Kai shook his head. No. Its beyond the waterwall thats to the front, from what I know, but we need to pass through here. And... His eyes traced the battlefield once more. I had a battle here last year. Against a necromancer. Everything seemed to still be in his words. It had been one of the first serious battles as Arzan where he''d lost someone under his command since arriving in this world. Though time had passed, he couldnt shake the sombre weight that lingered in the air, echoing the loss he still carried. Feroy, riding just behind, gave a slow nod. Yes, it was a tough battle. But we managed to show some good grit. Kais gaze remained on the water, lost in thought for a moment before he nodded. We did. But I believe we missed something crucial in that battle something that never came up in any of our conversations after. Feroy furrowed his brow, intrigued. What do you mean? What did we miss? Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai straightened in his saddle, his eyes narrowing as he thought back. We assumed the necromancer was hiding here. It made sense at the time, especially with the Dukedom of Blackwood hunting him. So, we didnt question it further. But now, after dealing with the brood mother and discovering she was a fiend, I have my doubts. I believe the necromancer wasnt just hiding. Klan and Rhea were both listening intently now, and Feroys voice dropped as he asked, Then what was he doing? Kai exhaled slowly, his eyes still scanning the remains of the battlefield. I think the necromancer was here to corrupt the brood mother. He wasnt just on the run. He was on a mission to plant a parasite that would twist the brood mother into something even worse. Weve been looking at it all wrong. The corruption wasnt an accident or a coincidence. He was actively trying to turn her into something far more dangerous. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 122. Dungeon exploration Kai had plenty of time to think about the things that bothered him during the time he had taken for his recovery. The battles, the beasts, the betrayals everything that had happened and gnawed at his side since he''d awoken in Arzans body felt like a blur. But now, with his mind clearer, he began to notice details hed missed before. The brood mother had been a challenge, but it wasnt the creature itself that unsettled him. It was the parasite within it. That thing wasnt natural. Frays had mentioned they''d never seen parasitic colonies in the forest. No one had. And yet, there it was. It had to have been placed there. As the thought settled, Kais suspicions sharpened. There was only one person who could pull off something like that: Lucian. He had the power, the influence, and, most importantly, the cunning to orchestrate something that underhanded. But there was a bigger question. Kais mind wandered back to the reports about the necromancer lurking in the Vasper Forest. A Mage like that wouldnt just appear without a reason. If a necromancer had crossed into Vasper Forest, it would have had to pass through the Sylvan Enclave and Lucian''s territory was in the middle of it. Suddenly, things began to align. The necromancer wasnt just a wandering threat; there was a connection. If Lucian had offered safe passage or collaborated with the necromancer in some other way, it would explain the emergence of the parasite. The more Kai thought about it, the more it all clicked. Lucian wasnt just playing politics anymore. He was something much darker than the surface of an arrogant persona disguised in expensive clothes. He was dangerous. And Kai knew he had to act because Lucian was no longer just a brother vying for his territory. He was involved in something that could spiral out of control, something far bigger than Kai had anticipated. sea??h th n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai had berated himself for not seeing the signs earlier. How could he have missed it? The necromancer had been right in front of him, but there hadnt been any symbol of a larger organisation, nothing to link him to any known group. Looting the body had revealed no clues, just a series of dark trinkets, none of which provided the answers he sought. But then again, why would the necromancer have something so obvious on him? It wasnt like people who dabbled in forbidden arts walked around wearing badges. Still, Kai knew he couldnt keep beating himself up about it. The past was the past, and lingering on it would only waste time. What mattered now was making sure something like this never happened again. He needed to be more vigilant. With that conclusion in mind, he came to the present and moved forward with his group as they walked towards the dungeon, their horses traversing the roots growing along the forest floor. I still dont understand how the guards let a necromancer slip through Veralt to Vasper Forest, Feroy muttered, shaking his head and breaking the silence. This shouldnt have happened. Its our fault for not keeping a tighter watch! Kai didnt even break a glance at him as he replied, It happened when I wasnt taking charge of the city seriously. So, no, Feroy, it wasnt just the guards'' fault. It was as much my fault as theirs. Its not your fault, Lord Arzan. I wasnt paying enough attention to the inner workings of the city. I let things slip by and trusted too much in the system. Thats on me. But now we learn from it. Feroy fell silent, listening. We cant change whats already happened, but we can make sure the security is tighter from now on. Well improve the patrols, and list out exactly who were letting into the city and the villages, and for what purpose. No more blind trust. A registry is a good way to do it and we can improve the system with enchantments as we go. A registry? Feroy asked, raising a brow. Kai nodded. Yes. That way, we know whos here and why. Itll make sure no spy or dark Mage sneaks in unnoticed again. They might still lie about their purpose, but there are ways to get around it. "Wont it be hard to keep an eye on such a big territory, especially one connected to the Vasper Forest? This place is huge." Klan asked from behind. Kai nodded, his gaze scanning the dense trees that hovered over them, their leaves casting dappled shadows on the ground. "It will be difficult, but not impossible. We cant cover everything simultaneously, but we can start building a proper security system. Its going to take time, but well get there." Yes, itll be a process, but a mandatory one, Feroys words came out loud, confirming everyones thoughts. With that, they once again fell silent letting them just look around and take everything in. They followed along the stream of water, and the deeper they moved, the closer they got to the waterfall. The trees seemed to stretch endlessly, impossible to distinguish where they began or ended. Different colours, and sizes of trees some Kai knew would even look luminous at night towered high around them. He involuntarily sighed as they passed a couple of richly grown Agarwood trees, noting them down to use in a few of his potions. He looked down and noticed thick undergrowth tangled at the hooves. The heavy sound of the waterfall surrounded them. The smell of the damp earth filled his nostrils. This close to the Vasper Forest, nature felt alive, almost watching them, listening to them, and stalking them. His thoughts drifted, taking a swift turn as he thought back to the conversation with Feroy and a form of magic that might help them Druidic magic, a kind of magic that was one of the rarest in the world and was even a form of lost magic in his era he had been considering it for a while now. It would certainly make things easier, especially in monitoring such a vast area. But druidic magic was the legacy of the elves and it wasn''t easy to learn it since they were known to be protective of it. Kai wondered whether it was time to seek out the elves. Making contact with them could open doors to that magic and offer alliances he would need in the future. He would need them to become an Enforcer as well and although he knew a few tricks he could use, there was no guarantee they would work. The soft crunch of leaves brought him back to the present. He felt the breeze and heard the sound of the waterfall. From the information he had, the dungeon was right next to it. But that wasnt why he held up a hand, signalling for everyone to stop. From beyond the thicket, a low growl rumbled, barely audible but unmistakable. Kai pushed aside the thick vines using a first circle spell [Tangle Shift] to reveal a small clearing ahead. Then he used [Hawk Eyes] to see just outside the entrance to the dungeon cave they were heading for. There, pacing near the stone entrance, were four wolf-like creatures. Duskhounds. Their sleek grey bodies were slightly larger than the average wolf type beasts and they possessed higher agility, violet eyes and muscular limbs. "Grade 1 duskhounds," Kai muttered, his eyes narrowing. Klan frowned. "I thought we killed most of the beasts during the wave." His voice came above the loud noise of the water. Kai shook his head at his statement. "The Vasper Forest has far more beast than what attacked Veralt. If the brood mother had won, more would have joined it. These duskhounds are just a fraction of what lurks inside." Klan grunted, accepting the explanation. "Either way," Kai continued, his voice steady, "I believe we can handle these easily." How many are we talking about? I can only see four. But duskhounds normally move in a larger pack, so I''m guessing there are more around the dungeon. I can find them, but I don''t think there''s any need to. They are known to run away if they see any stronger creature, so I believe we just need to kill those four and we can make our way down the dungeon. Lets fight then, Klan whispered. I believe we would be able to take them up. Feroy nodded in agreement, tightening his grip on his spear. Kai turned to Rhea who looked a little spooked with the sudden prospect of a battle. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. Out of all of them, she had the least experience of a battle. "Youll be behind me, well protected, so dont worry. This is your first real battle where youll use offensive spells." He gave her a small, encouraging smile. "I wont put you in too much danger. These duskhounds are only Grade 1, but I want you to observe and cast the spell I taught you when you see an opening." Rhea nodded, swallowing her nerves. "Ill do my best." Lets move, Kai commanded as they got off from their horses and bound them to trees before moving closer to the dusk-hounds. He didnt waste another second. With a flick of his hand, his mana surged, cold and sharp as it coalesced into jagged ice shards. The duskhounds sensed the danger, their growls intensifying as they turned towards Kai. In an instant, they leapt forward, fangs bared. Kai responded with precision, his focus locked on the advancing duskhounds. His hand shot forward, launching icy shards toward the creatures. The spears of ice sliced through the air with lethal accuracy, striking the nearest duskhound square in the side. The beast let out a guttural howl before collapsing, its body freezing solid where it hit the ground. The once-ferocious creature lay motionless, ice spreading across its fur as it succumbed to the cold. Without missing a beat, Feroy shot forward. His spear spun in his hands, movements fluid as he channelled his element into the weapon. Kai knew he had unlocked his affinity before the beast wave, but as he saw the flames dancing around Feroy''s spear''s edge, he realised that his connection with flames was strong. With a swift thrust, Feroy caught the second duskhound mid-leap and it whimpered violently as the flames burned its body. The pain seemed to overwhelm it as it got thrown on the ground. Feroy didnt pause, his spear spinning once more in his grip as he prepared for the next strike, his eyes tracking the movement of the remaining wolves. Behind him, Klan took a more methodical approach. He planted his feet firmly into the earth, calling on his connection to the ground beneath him. The soil trembled in response, and Klan summoned jagged rock shards from the ground, sending them flying toward the third duskhound. The beast yelped as the sharp stones pelted its body, forcing it back. When it tried to rush forward again, Klan stomped the ground hard, and a small stone barrier shot up between them, cutting off the creature''s path. The duskhound scratched at the barrier, its claws scraping against the stone, but it couldnt advance further. Kai, meanwhile, continued his icy assault. With quick, practised gestures, he conjured another shard in his hand and sent it hurling toward the remaining duskhounds. He had been learning the structures for second circle ice spells he had found and modified them to suit the modern spell structure design, and they worked as expected. One of the beasts, poised to strike at Klans barrier, froze mid-motion as the ice shard found its mark. Its body stiffened instantly, frozen in place as if time itself had stopped for the creature. With the immediate threat contained, Kai took a step back, putting some distance between the remaining beasts and his group. He felt the slight pain in his Mana heart and knew it was better to let the others deal with the beasts. Moreover, he wanted to see how things would unfold with his apprentice. Rhea, standing slightly behind the others, clenched her fists, trying to keep her breathing steady. It looked like she had been watching intently, her eyes fixed on the last duskhound that had somehow slipped past Feroys flames. The creature was darting toward her with alarming speed, its predatory eyes locked on its new target. "Now or never," Rhea muttered, her voice shaky but determined. Kai heard it barely over the waterfall. The duskhound closed the gap in mere moments, its muscles tensing for the final leap. But before it could pounce, Kai was already in motion. With a drag of his wrist, a thick barrier of ice materialised between Rhea and the beast, halting its advance. Kai glanced back at her, his eyes sharp but filled with unspoken encouragement. Rheas hands trembled slightly as she summoned her mana, focusing on the fire spell structure Kai had drilled into her in the past week. "[Fireball!]" Rhea shouted, her voice cutting through the noise of the metal, the sound of water and the spells cast by Klan. She thrust her hands forward, releasing the pent-up energy. A glowing sphere of flame erupted from her palms, hurtling toward the duskhound. The fireball collided with the creature''s side in a blaze of heat and light. The impact sent the duskhound sprawling to the ground, its fur alight, smoke rising from the singed flesh. The beast twitched for a moment, then lay still, its lifeless body smouldering. Kai turned to Rhea, his stern expression softening as a proud smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Nicely done, Rhea. Perfect timing." She exhaled deeply, the tension in her shoulders melting visibly. He looked at the four beasts on the floor, dead. His eyes scanned the sprawling trees around them as he heard movements, probably from the rest of the pack that were hiding nearby. But they soon vanished. Since they were only Grade 1 beasts, none of them dared to jump out to avenge their kin. Well, that went well, Klan responded while letting out a huge breath. The rest arent as brave as these. Feroy approached, wiping sweat from his brow. More like not as unlucky as these. They were able to run away in time seeing our power. "Alright," Kai said, turning back toward the dungeon entrance. It was a cave as most dungeons were, wide enough for them to easily move inside without ducking. "Weve dealt with the duskhounds, but lets keep moving. Theres no telling whats hiding deeper inside." With that, the group moved toward the dungeon''s mouth, their steps echoing against the stone walls as they descended into the depths. The sound of the waterfall soon was muffled by nothingness but the constant beat of their hearts. Kai summoned several orbs of light, sending them ahead to illuminate the way. The cold, dark air of the dungeon greeted them, the walls damp and slick with age. "Stay sharp," Kai warned. "There might be more beasts lurking down here." They moved carefully, their eyes scanning the shadowed corridors for any sign of danger. Nothing. The flickering light from Kai''s magic cast eerie shadows, making the dungeon feel alive with movement. But as they continued deeper, they found nothing. The eerie silence was unsettling, and the absence of beasts only heightened their tension. "No signs of anything yet," Feroy muttered, his spear gripped tightly in his hand. Kai nodded, though he remained cautious. Keep your guard up. Its quiet, but that doesnt mean were alone." They continued their descent, the darkness thick around them, every sound amplified in the space surrounded by stone. The deeper they went, the more the silence pressed in on them like a tangible weight. Something was off, but for now, they found no signs of danger. Yet. The occasional corpse of a beast, already decayed and half-buried by rubble, dotted the path, but nothing noteworthy. They moved carefully, the echo of their footsteps was the only sound that came through the walls. After what felt like hours of navigating the twisting corridors, they entered a massive room. In the centre sat a podium on top of which rested the dungeon core. It glowed faintly, illuminating the huge cave room. Kai stepped forward, his eyes narrowing at the orb. Dungeon cores were rare but not unheard of. Places like this zones where mana pooled heavily could, over hundreds of years, condense that energy into a core. The core then acted as a beacon for beasts, allowing them to absorb its mana and grow stronger. At the same time, due to the warmth the core often gave, a lot of beasts would use it as a place for hibernation. It was common knowledge that most dungeons were fiercely guarded by a powerful creature, but with the brood mother slain, the dungeon was left vulnerable and empty and it seemed like no other creature had tried to lay ownership to it. We are lucky most ferocious beasts died in the beast wave, Feroy muttered, leaning on his spear. I''m sure those duskhounds were trying to go into the dungeon to lay claim to the core. Kai nodded, his gaze still fixed on the core. His thoughts drifted to the necromancers golembook. The book had mentioned something about substituting a dungeon core for a golem core, and now, standing in front of one, he could see why. The sheer concentration of mana within it could power any number of constructs. It was no wonder so many Mages were so interested in dungeons like this. Although he had read reports and several theories on how dungeon cores worked, it was the first time he had seen one. At least one that wasn''t broken into pieces. Klan moved closer to the core, inspecting the surroundings. We should take this, right? Kai shook his head. "We leave it. Removing it could destabilise the entire dungeon. The beasts may have fled or died, but this core still holds the balance here. Moreover, I have plans for the core. For now, let''s search for any signs of corruption here or treasures. Dungeons like these often have lost swords and armour of fallen warriors and Mages." They scanned the room, trying to assess if there was anything of value or any sign of traps. A part of him hoped he was going to find another diary like the one he had found in the larva queen''s cave, but there were only webs and dust. If there were any signs of corruption in the cave, it must have been weak and the condensed mana in the air had erased it. Still, Kai looked around everywhere, trying to find any other notable things. But he found nothing. No signs of corruption, no treasures, no diaries and not even anything that might help him piece together the mystery of the necrotic parasite. Everything seemed quiet until Klans scream ripped through the air, startling everyone. They spun around, weapons drawn, and rushed toward where Klan had wandered off to. What is it? Kai demanded, the heat in his palms already forming in preparation for an attack. Klan pointed with a shaking hand toward an alcove on the far side of the room. Kai followed his gaze and froze. Thousands of balls of webs, the size of a mans head, clustered together in a sickeningly neat formation. The soft, pulsing glow from the dungeon core illuminated the disgusting scene, making the pale, translucent shells glisten. He instinctively took a step, realising what it was. What is it? Rhea asked, breaking the silence, her finger pointing at the balls. Eggs, Kai replied. Spider eggs. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 123. Schemes of the coming end The rooms tension became palpable as they stood before the cluster of eggs. Hundreds, maybe thousands, of spider eggs smooth, translucent orbs filled the cave, glowing faintly in the dim light that came from the dungeon core. Klan and Rhea instinctively stepped back, their faces a mix of fear and disgust. Feroy''s hand twitched around his spear. His posture was guarded, as if at any moment they would hatch and unleash chaos. Sar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai''s eyes widened, his mind flashing with a brief, vivid vision of the eggs cracking open all at once, tiny spiders spilling out like a wave of nightmares, crawling over their feet, their bodies, suffocating them in a sea of legs and venom. His heart raced, but he shook his head, dispelling the image. He exhaled slowly, eyes focusing back on the unhatched eggs. This... this is madness, Feroy muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. He straightened and shot Kai a hard glance. Lord Arzan, we should kill them. Burn them before they hatch. Klan nodded fervently. I agree, my lord. This many? Its dangerous. We cant risk it. Kai remained silent for a moment, his gaze fixed on the eggs. He could feel their mana, dormant but potent, mystical energy waiting to be awakened. His companions stared at him in disbelief as he finally spoke. "No," Kai said quietly but firmly. We cant destroy them. The others blinked, shock flashing across their faces. Even Rhea looked as if Kai asked them to strip on the spot unreasonable, and downright crazy. Feroy took a step forward, eyes wide. "What? Are you serious? You want these things alive? Kai crossed his arms, unbothered by their reactions. "Yes, I knew there was a chance we''d find these. It was one of the reasons I came here. I suspected the brood mother had laid eggs before it was corrupted." Rhea furrowed her brow. "But... how could you know theyre not corrupted?" Kai stepped closer to the eggs, studying them carefully. Spider eggs take about two years to hatch. Judging by their condition, these were laid before the brood mother was infected. There''s no sign of dark mana in them. Theyre pure. Feroy grimaced. Even so, Lord Arzan, this is reckless. If they hatch and "They wont," Kai interrupted. Not yet. And even when they do, I have a way to tame them. Feroy''s mouth opened, then closed as he struggled to find words. Finally, he shook his head. "Tame them? Spiders? For what? A slow smile tugged at Kais lips. Their webs. Rhea blinked. Webs? Kai nodded. "Spider silk is one of the most durable and versatile materials we can get our hands on. Its softer than regular silk but far stronger. We can establish an entirely new industry in Veralt using this. Think of it garments, armour, ropes anything made from this silk will be leagues ahead of whats currently available in Lancephil." The others exchanged glances, unsure whether to be impressed or horrified. Klan crossed his arms. "And you plan to tame them how, exactly?" Kai turned to face the eggs fully now, feeling a flicker of excitement. "Many beasts can be tamed, especially while theyre still in their eggs. Its all about establishing a bond before they hatch. With spiders, its a process of mana exchange. Normally, the brood mother feeds them its mana so they can grow and hatch properly. Ill be doing something similar and make sure they grow fast enough for me to be able to use their silk." Klans eyes widened in realisation. Thats why you need the dungeon core... Partially, Kai admitted, rubbing his chin. But its more than that. I want every beast in Vasper Forest to grow stronger, under our control. Not enough to create a threat like the beast wave, but enough that we can harvest them for materials. The creatures here spiders, arsenic bears, even the hounds are valuable. We can manage them, hunt them when necessary, and use their resources without overexploiting the forest. Feroy, still cautious, raised an eyebrow. "So... you want to farm these beasts for resources, Lord Arzan?" Kai smiled faintly. Exactly. Well monitor their growth, ensuring none of them become too dangerous while benefiting from their rare materials. It''s about balance. Not all creatures in the forest are a threat some are simply valuable. The group fell silent as they processed his words. Rhea finally spoke, her voice softer. "So you''re proposing... controlled growth? Like cultivating them?" Kai nodded. With the dungeon core powering the forest, well have the perfect environment. In six months, well have spider silk better than anyone else in Lancephil. This forest is a treasure trove if handled correctly. Klan glanced at the eggs again, his face conflicted but intrigued. So, theyre not a threat... but an opportunity. "Exactly," Kai said. And with time, Veralt wont just be known for surviving a beast wave it''ll be the centre of industry and prosperity. Or at least I hope thats what will happen. As the weight of his plan sank in, the tension in the air shifted from fear to cautious optimism. A low, menacing growl cut through the cave, immediately drawing everyone''s attention. The questions and responses about the eggs were momentarily forgotten as they stiffened. Kai''s eyes snapped to the source of the sound. There, standing a bit far, was a massive duskhound, its fur black as midnight and rippling with power. Its fangs gleamed in the dim light, and its violet eyes glowed with a predatory intensity that made the air feel thick with tension. Muscles tensed beneath its sleek coat, every fibre of its being coiled, ready to strike. Behind it, three more duskhounds emerged from the shadows, their snarls quieter but no less threatening. They fanned out, forming a pack with the leader at the forefront. Kai could feel the weight of its presence, the raw mana it exuded. His mind quickly processed its information Duskhound leader, a grade 3 beast. "Looks like those hounds from earlier," Kai muttered, his gaze locked on the leader, "were just clearing the path for this one." The creature lowered its head, growling deeper as it prepared to charge. Feroy instantly stepped forward, his spear half-drawn, muscles tensing for battle. "Ill intercept it, Lord Arzan," he said through gritted teeth. Kai raised a hand, his voice calm but firm. No, Feroy. Let me handle it. Feroy hesitated, glancing at the beast and then back at Kai. Are you sure? I can definitely handle it. The beast wave allowed me to grow and my abilities can certainly stand against a Grade 3 beast. I know, Kai replied, his eyes narrowing. But I want to test out a few new spells I have been practising. Kai stepped forward, feeling the heat rise in his chest, mana stirring at his core with a slight pang of tug that he chose to ignore. A surge of power flowed through him as flames began to coil around his hands, crackling with fierce energy. The duskhound leader growled louder, its gaze locking onto him with lethal intent. It bared its teeth, the other hounds following its lead, their dark forms brimming with aggression. The air between Kai and the leader of the pack seemed to thrum with tension as his flames flared brighter, casting flickering shadows on the cave walls. "You want a fight?" Kai muttered, the fire swirling and expanding in his palms. Youve got one. *** The sharp crack of a slap echoed through the lavish bedroom as Reginas hand connected with her son''s face. Eldric staggered back, his body slamming into the window with a dull thud. Glass rattled, and for a brief moment, his wide eyes reflected a mix of shock and anger. His jaw clenched so hard that it could have broken a tooth or two. But before he looked like he could fully process the strike, Queen Regina grabbed the front of his tunic and yanked him forward, her face a mask of cold fury. Do you even realize the magnitude of the fuck-up youve caused? she hissed, her voice low and dangerous, each word dripping with venom. Eldric blinked, stunned, wanting to touch the skin where her palm had struck. "II followed your plan," he stammered, trying to recover his composure. Reginas eyes narrowed, her grip tightening as she shoved him back, hitting the glass windows once again. "My plan," she growled, "wasnt to antagonise someone capable of holding back an entire beast wave. Especially someone like that. He grimaced, rubbing his jaw where she had struck him. "I didnt antagonise him. I just wanted a bit of profit. You know the nobles beneath me arent the wealthiest. They needed some advantage" Her eyes flared with anger. You dont need to concern yourself with that! she snapped, cutting him off. "And you didnt follow my plan at all. My was for Arzan to die because I him to. But now, thanks to your foolishness, hes proven to be much stronger than anyone anticipated. If you even had the slightest inkling of his strength, you should have informed me." I didnt know, Eldric muttered defensively, wiping his lip. I only found out during the duel. By then, hed already fled the capital. Regina slapped him again, her hand striking harder this time, sending his head whipping to the side. You should have adjusted immediately! she snarled, towering over him. "Made contingency plans. Adapted. A good king would do that. But you? You did nothing. A fool. Her breath came in sharp, controlled bursts as she stared at him, eyes flashing with disdain. Slowly, she straightened, her hand lowering as she let out a sigh. Tell me, Eldric... how strong is he? Eldric hesitated, his voice faltering as he searched for words. "I dont know for sure," he admitted finally, glancing down. "He defeated Reyk, so hes likely at least at the adept level." Reginas frown deepened. And the plans for the Heat stones? The mana cannons I keep hearing rumours about how did he acquire those? I dont know, Eldric repeated, the admission laced with frustration. Eldric looked like a child once again, without a proper direction, or proper answers. Reginas lips curled into a bitter sneer. "Of course you dont." She turned her back on him, walking toward her ornate dressing table before she stopped and glanced over her shoulder. "Get out of my sight. Go lick your wounds somewhere else. For the next week, you will receive daily lectures on diplomacy and tact. And I dont want to see your face until youve learned something. Eldric stiffened, glaring at her retreating figure as he slowly turned to leave. His fists were clenched at his sides, and he hesitated at the door, his gaze hardening as he looked back at her, lips parting to say somethinganythingto defend himself. But Regina didnt turn around. She didnt need to. Her voice, cold and lethal, rang out before he could speak. If you dare show me those eyes again, Eldric, I will pluck them out so you can feel a fraction of the pain Im enduring right now, she said smoothly. And then I will sew them back in, just so I can take them out again. You wont like it. The prince''s face flushed with shame as he muttered a quiet, "Sorry," before bowing and leaving the room. The door clicked shut behind him, leaving Queen Regina alone. Silence settled over the chamber, but it did little to calm the storm raging within her. She stood still for a moment, taking deep, controlled breaths as her heart pounded against her ribcage. The seething anger from her confrontation with Eldric still clawed at her mind, but it was more than just frustration. It was the weight of her crumbling plans, the nagging, ever-present ache of a game gone awry. With trembling hands, she reached into the drawer of her elegant vanity and pulled out a small vial and syringe. Her eyes flickered, a slight grimace crossing her face as she readied the needle. The sharp prick of the injection brought an almost immediate wave of relief, and she leaned back in her chair, exhaling slowly as the familiar warmth spread through her body. Her mental agony dulled and numbed, and for a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to feel... better. But only for a moment. Her thoughts quickly returned to Arzan Kellius. He was a problem the problem. She had calculated everything so carefully, but his survival had thrown her plans into chaos. She needed to get ahead of this before things spiralled further out of control. Regina snapped her fingers, her voice sharp. Selwin, come in!" A young attendant quickly entered, bowing low. "Your Majesty," she greeted, his head still bowed. Whats the report from Veridia? Regina asked, her tone clipped. It has not yet arrived, Your Majesty." Reginas eyes narrowed. The assassin didnt do much work, I see. Selwin hesitated, choosing his next words carefully. The reports weve received indicate that the assassin is still there, gathering information. They havent found an opportunity to eliminate Co Baron Arzan. And with the count ceremony drawing nobles from all over the kingdom to Veralt, it would be nearly impossible now. Reginas frown deepened, and she stood abruptly, pacing back and forth, the hem of her dress brushing against the floor. "My plans... all disrupted by this one variable. It was supposed to go exactly as I envisioned. He shouldve been dead months ago." Her voice grew cold, simmering with contempt. But that damned witch-blooded Valkyrie''s kin still filthy, still difficult to kill. She stopped pacing, her gaze distant as thoughts swirled in her mind. Her lips tightened into a thin line. "Veridia I dont even trust her anymore. Theyve had countless chances to finish him, and she failed at every turn. Useless." Selwin shifted slightly but remained silent, clearly aware of the queens volatile temper. Regina''s hand traced along the edge of the table, eyes flickering with a dark gleam as an idea formed. It seems, she murmured, that I will have to change tactics. Play a nice game to finish off Arzan myself. Selwin looked up at her, cautious but curious. What are you going to do, Your Majesty? he asked, knowing that Regina enjoyed the dance of strategy and inquiry. Regina smiled a slow, dangerous smile that promised nothing good. "What am I going to do?" she repeated, her voice a silky purr. "Ive heard Duke Lucian is fuming these days. He lost the chance I created for him to shine, and the mercenaries he hired Well, that was a fortune down the drain. Servants at his castle have been disappearing too no doubt because theyve crossed him during one of his tantrums." She chuckled lightly, an unsettling sound in the quiet room. "Its always amusing, using him as a pawn." The queen tapped her fingers against the table, her mind already racing ahead. "Hes already eager to finish off his brother. We just need to give him the perfect nudge. I cant trust the tower anymore, not after all thats happened. So Ill send some people of my own. Our kingdom hasnt seen a good fief war in two decades. Its about time for some excitement, wouldnt you say? Even the gossip has been dull." Selwin looked visibly shocked, eyes wide. "But, Your Majesty, a fief war requires justification. Lord Arzan is seen as a hero after holding back the beast wave. Hes becoming a rising noble, and many are drawn to his reputation. Even the commoners admire him for standing his ground." Regina nodded, her eyes narrowing slightly as if savouring the complexity of the situation. "Im well aware of that. His reputation will make this tricky, but reputations in this world are fragile, and easily tainted. It doesnt take much to stain them with a few well-placed rumours or incidents. A single dark spot can give someone like Lucian all the justification he needs to march in and slay his brother. She paused and thought for a moment, her voice growing colder. "If Lucian fails and he very well might then my people will be there to finish the job. Theyre currently occupied in Vanderfall, but theyll return soon." Selwin swallowed nervously but nodded. "I will send the letters immediately, Your Majesty." Regina waved a hand dismissively, her gaze drifting toward the large window. "Go. Ensure everything is in motion." As Selwin quickly departed, Regina remained seated, her eyes lifting toward the moon hanging in the sky. Its pale light bathed her in a cold glow, matching the icy determination settling within her. She didnt just want Arzan dead she wanted to see him crumble first, to fall from grace so spectacularly that even those who admired him would turn away in disgust. And then, when the timing was perfect, she would strike. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying Dao of Money so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 124. Future policies After their discoveries in the Vasper Forest, Kai soon returned to the city, and with him, a long list of responsibilities trailed after him. The beast wave was finally over, but the aftermath was not something that could be ignored. The Count ceremony was fast approaching, a public spectacle that would cement his newly given title, but more pressing matters weighed on his mind: the development of the entire territory. Deciding to tackle everything immediately, Kai called a meeting with all the key figures, determined to address the post-war rebuilding in one sweep. The meeting room was bathed in the soft, golden light of late morning as Kai stood at the head of the long wooden table. Dust motes danced lazily through the streams of sunlight that filtered through the curtains, adding a touch of warmth to the otherwise serious atmosphere. His eyes swept across the room, taking in each of the faces gathered around him. Francis sat closest to Kai, a scroll of notes already in hand, prepared to assist with every detail he would need. Beside him, Killian leaned back in his chair. Claire stood across from Killian. In front of her and opposite Killian, Klan, representing the Mages, sat quietly, fingers tracing the runes embroidered into his robes. At the far end, Barret, the mason, was hunched over a few sketches of the city walls and new construction projects. His broad hands pointed places to the person who was next to him; Malden, who was responsible for supplies, sat with a ledger in hand, his brow furrowed as he made notes for the materials theyd need. Balen, the head blacksmith, adjusted the thick leather apron still slung over his shoulders. Orion, the alchemist, sat next to Ubert, a representative from the outskirts farming community. The sinewy man seemed nervous sitting with all the big shots. Beside him were Alden, the chief of Hagmons Keep; Manu, the chief of Averous Village; Kaelan, the chief of Mangrove; and the other village chiefs, each representing their communities, all gathered around the table. Kai looked over them all, a mix of veterans, craftsmen, and survivors people who had seen the worst of the wave and were now tasked with building something from its ashes. Taking a deep breath, he spoke his voice firm but edged with the weight of what was to come. I know weve been through a lot, he began, his gaze sweeping across the room, meeting each set of eyes. The beast wave tested every one of us some more than others. But weve survived. And now, its time to rebuild. Today, I want to go over the development plans Ive been working on with Francis. Kais gaze sharpened as he moved around the table, locking eyes with each person. His words were steady but held an urgency that cut through the room. "You all know that Veralt isnt in good shape. The villagesravaged by the beast waveare in shambles. Though the people are resilient and hopeful, they need more than promises; they need action. This meeting is about putting everything we gained from defeating the wave to good use." He stepped over to a large table positioned in the centre of the room, where a detailed miniature model of Veralt and its surrounding areas lay. It depicted the city with its towering walls, the sprawling villages beyond, and even the thick forest, carefully maintained by Klan using his earth affinity. The forest was represented by small, intricate trees. Streams and rivers meandered through the landscape, while the jagged lines of destroyed homes and roads spoke of the wave''s destructive path. Kai straightened, his hands resting on the edge of the table. "This is how we move forward roads, housing, education, and redeveloping the villages. This is where we begin to rebuild Veralt into something stronger than it was before." As his words settled into the room, there was a quiet, collective nodding of heads. The village representatives face lit up with hope as Kai laid out his vision for the roads and villages. The shift in atmosphere was palpable as he continued, focusing on the future rather than the scars of the past. "First and foremost," Kai said, stepping back from the table model, "were going to make sure the roads are solid. Not just patchwork repairs, but proper development. Using Syphon stones, well line the roads with light lamps. They can be enchanted to take in the ambient mana to give off light and we would encase them in transparent safety locks to make sure they don''t pose any threats. And it wont be limited to just Veralt. Every village in the territory will be connected by clear, well-maintained pathways. People will be able to travel safely, day and night." He paused, tapping the section of the model where the road led out of Veralt. "Not only that, well extend the network to connect with the main road leading to the capital. This will create a major trade route, allowing more merchant caravans to come through and boosting our economy." At this, Barret leaned forward, eyes narrowed in thought. "Thats a massive undertaking, Lord Arzan. Paving roads, lighting them, all the way to the capital? How do you plan to manage that? It''s not just the materials, it''s manpower. Wed need labourers and engineers, and thats before we talk about maintenance." Kai nodded, already expecting the concern. "I wont deny its a huge project. But it''s also essential. Ill be putting eighty percent of the funds we earned from selling the creatures we defeatedand the reward from the kingdomdirectly into this road development project. Eighty percent, its not nothing. Its going to take time and resources, but we cant move forward without proper infrastructure. This isnt just about today, its about setting us up for the future." Barret mulled this over, his fingers drumming on the table, but after a moment, he nodded slowly. With that kind of investment, we can get it done. But well need to start surveying the land right away. Kais gaze shifted to Alden, who still seemed buoyed by the earlier announcement. "Next," he continued, "is the village development project. I know your villages took the brunt of the beast wave, and weve got work to do just to clear out the damage. But once thats done, we need to focus on growing these villages, not just rebuilding them. They may be small now, but we can turn them into something more." The representatives smiles widened as Kai spoke, and a murmur of approval spread through the room. They looked at each other and seemed to silently speak of something probably approving the sound of it. "Well start by helping each village expand its agricultural capabilities. Different crops, herbs for trade and medicinal purposes whatever the land can support, well cultivate it. Ubert," Kai nodded towards the farmers representative, "youll help with that alongside other farming veterans. Your expertise will be crucial in making sure the soils fit and were planting the right crops." Ubert scratched his chin thoughtfully, then gave a firm nod. "We can manage that. Might take some time, but with proper guidance, the land can give back what it took from us." sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai nodded at that. "And thats not all," Kai continued, pointing to the edges of the forest on the model. "Were going to establish a hunting network for the local hunters. Theyll be able to use the forest to bring in game meat, furs, resources. Not just for themselves, but as a sustainable trade opportunity with the city. Well make sure the hunters have what they need to keep the village fed and help fuel the economy." There was a quiet hum of agreement from the room, but Kai wasnt finished. "And of course," he added, "the village walls will grow too. We wont leave you vulnerable to another attack like the beast wave. Well be fortifying every village, making sure you can sleep in peace behind walls that will hold. Itll take time especially with the damage weve takenbut once the roads are established, and the immediate repairs are done, the defences will follow." As Kai finished outlining his vision for the villages, there was a ripple of gratitude that swept through the room. The village representatives, clearly moved, stood up, one of them, Manu spokehis voice thick with emotion. "Thank you, Lord Arzan. I speak for all the villages when I say weve never had a leader look after us like this. Well work hard to make your plans a reality." Ubert nodded in agreement. "Aye, were grateful. This is more than we ever hoped for." Others echoed similar sentiments, appreciation filling the space as the weight of Kais plans settled into their minds. But Kai wasnt done yet. He shared a smile with them. Thats what Im supposed to do. But moreover, it is what I want to do. So all we can hope is that the plan will set us up for success. "Now The most important thing we need to implement is an education policy across the territory. Its time we invest in our future not just in bricks and walls, but in knowledge." He moved back to the table, hands clasped behind his back as he explained. "Well start with a basic curriculum. Language, so our people can read and write fluently. Geography, so they understand the land they live in and beyond. Mathematics, so they can manage trade and household accounts. And history, so they know the struggles weve overcome and how to avoid them in the future." Kais voice grew more impassioned as he outlined the scope of his vision. "Once they complete this basic education, well offer apprenticeships across various fields blacksmithing, working with alchemists, becoming skilled hunters, or training with the knights. There will be a place for every person willing to learn and grow, from trades to combat." At this, Balen gave a hearty nod. "You know youll always have room in my workshop, Lord Arzan. The more skilled hands, the better." Kai acknowledged him before continuing. "At the same time, well launch a campaign to educate the common peopleadults includedin reading and writing. No one should be left behind. Once weve achieved that, well work toward establishing a library. A centre of knowledge that will serve not just Veralt but all its surrounding villages." There was a collective intake of breath as murmurs grew louder around the table. Francis, standing off to the side, gave a sharp nod, already calculating logistics in his mind. Kai saw how Claire leaned in slightly. "Ive already spoken with those who will take on apprentices," Kai continued, cutting through the whispers. "This entire educational initiative will be managed by Francis. Claire will assist him in promoting the program and making sure people across the territory know that education is not just for the elite but for everyone." The room buzzed with mixed reactions approval, excitement, but also scepticism. Kai could feel the tension shift as discussions rose. The idea of widespread education stirred more emotions than the previous topics since it wasn''t considered important for commoners in this era. And then, as expected, someone raised an objection. Malden lifted his head, his voice cautious yet firm. "Lord Arzan, I admire your vision, and I believe in much of what youre saying. But wont this go against the church?" The room stilled at the mention of the church. Malden continued, "They already have their own schools. If we start educating people outside of their system, the church may see it as a threat to their influence. How do we avoid stirring conflict with them? The church is not a force we can afford to antagonise." Kai regarded Malden thoughtfully. He knew this would come up the church, with its own schools, had long held control over education, ensuring that their influence remained unchallenged. This new program could easily be seen as an encroachment. But Kai wasnt one to back down from a challenge, not when the future of his people was at stake. He exhaled slowly, the tension in the room palpable. Alden, his brow furrowed, nodded in agreement with Malden. "Lord Arzan, hes right. The church wont take kindly to this. Its not good to cross them, especially when they might see it as going against the goddess. The last thing we need is to create unnecessary tension among the locals. People would be sceptical if the church stands against us." Kais jaw clenched, but he remained composed. He knew that change always brought resistance, and fear and respect of the church were deeply rooted. Before he could respond, another voice cut through the murmurs. A stern-looking man from the village delegation stood, crossing his arms as he eyed Claire. Kaelan, the man whod been silent the entire meeting spoke loudly and clearly, silencing every whisper that spread around. "And another thing, Lord Arzan. How can a mere maid like her work on such a large, important program? Education across the entire territory is no small task this isnt something for a servant to handle." The atmosphere shifted, the tension thickening in the air. Conversations halted, and a cold silence fell over the room. Claire, standing near Francis, stiffened, her face flushed with embarrassment, but she said nothing, keeping her head down. Eyes darted between Kai and Kaelan and then, mana exploded outward. Kai looked down at the man who shrunk back to his chair in a second. Mere maid? I would like you to try saying that again. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 125. Failsafe The room''s temperature seemed to drop instantly, the once lively atmosphere thickening as if the air itself had turned to ice. Conversations died, replaced by a chilling silence that seeped into the bones of everyone present. Claire, standing next to Francis, visibly tensed, her cheeks flushing crimson. Her hands gripped the edges of her apron, eyes cast downward, too embarrassed to speak. sea??h th N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. All eyes were locked on Kai and the village chief Kaelan who spoke too soon. The man''s snide remark about Claire hung in the air like poison, but before anyone could react further, a pulse of mana erupted from Kai. The wave hit the room like a hammer, the pressure so intense it caused Kaelan to stumble backwards. His chair scraped loudly against the floor as he tumbled over, his face draining of colour. He stared up at Kai, eyes wide, mouth agape as if seeing the very moment of his demise unfold before him. Kais black eyes burned with fury, but only for a moment. He couldnt let himself lose his cool like this. It wasnt fair to anyone. He breathed deeply, pulling the mana back into his core, and the suffocating pressure in the room instantly lessened. Kaelan slumped into his chair, breathing hard, his hands trembling at his sides. Kai''s glare shifted to the rest of the room, scanning their faces, then back to Kaelan. "Claire isnt ''just'' a mere maid. Shes been vital to this entire castle, helping behind the scenes during the beast wave. While others fought on the front lines, she worked tirelessly in the background, ensuring supplies were managed, and that people had food and shelter. Tell me," his gaze swept the room, daring anyone to object, "can anyone here claim to have done better?" Claires blush deepened, her shoulders shrinking inward as Kai listed her achievements. He knew that she had never sought recognition for her work, let alone in a room full of village leaders, but now it was as though the spotlight had fallen directly on her. "And if were talking about education, Claire is proof of why it''s necessary. From a simple maid who could barely read, she pushed herself, learned, and improved. Now, she can read and write better than many of you. In fact, I doubt anyone in this room could do a better job at what shes been doing." Several heads turned to glance at Claire, whispers passing between them. Kai straightened, crossing his arms as his gaze swept over the room once more. "As for the church," he said, voice steady. "I will handle it myself. Ive already arranged a meeting with the head priest. That issue will be taken care of. You dont need to concern yourselves with it." His gaze settled back on Kaelan. "Is that clear?" Kaelan nodded weakly, the fire in his earlier remark completely extinguished. Manu immediately moved from his seat to help the village chief back into his seat, and slowly, the tension in the room began to ease. Conversations cautiously restarted, though much quieter than before. Kai exhaled slowly, his earlier outburst still fresh in his mind. Did he regret it? Not even a little. But he could feel the trace of his mana in the air, stronger than the usual amount that lingered. He sighed again, feeling a twinge of annoyance at himself. It wasnt just about power, or even pride it was something deeper. He hated seeing anyone who had stood by him being belittled and dismissed. Claire had proven her worth time and time again, and the thought of someone looking down on her for her past, for her station, ignited a quiet fury inside him. With a shake of his head, Kai cleared his thoughts. There were more pressing matters at hand. He returned his focus to the meeting, where the discussion had already shifted back to more mundane topics. The meeting dragged on, touching on a wide range of issues. The beast wave had left scars on the territory, and the rebuilding process was not something that could be rushed. The conversation naturally flowed into the developmental plans for Verdis, the new city that had recently been added to his domain. Kai leaned back slightly, listening as Francis and the others debated the logistics of integrating Verdis into the existing road network. There were too many unknowns right now no one had had a chance to properly scout the lands that came with it. Still, they laid down the foundation of a plan, deciding to include the new territories once they had a better understanding of the lands geography. The planning took longer than expected. Discussions shifted from broad strokes to minute details, and every aspect of the reconstruction and development process was picked apart. Francis had already counted out estimates for the cost of labour, materials, and transportation. His numbers were sound, but the sheer scope of what they were undertaking was daunting. Almost half the day passed, the hours bleeding together as they went over everything from the smallest details of resource management to the cost of fortifications. "Materials are the biggest hurdle," Francis said, glancing at the stacks of parchment in front of him. "But with Maldens connections, well be able to secure a good amount." He tapped a finger on a ledger, thoughtfully. He also agreed to approach other merchant houses. Theyre interested in passing through Veralt or possibly even setting up an office here if we can guarantee hell be the prime merchant for the lord." Kai nodded, though the thought of managing trade contracts on top of everything else felt like another layer of responsibility added to the already teetering pile. Still, it was a necessary step, one that could secure Veralt as a key trade hub for the region. By the time the meeting came to a close, the fatigue was palpable. Several of the attendees exchanged tired nods, ready to return to their duties with fresh tasks in hand. Kai stood from his seat, stretching his shoulders as he prepared to dismiss them. "That covers most of the major points," he said, his voice calm but authoritative. "I want everyone to get started on their respective tasks immediately. Theres no time to waste." The room stirred as people began to gather their things, preparing to leave. "Francis, Killian, Balen," Kai called out before they could follow the others. "Stay behind. Theres one more thing we need to discuss." His tone was serious, enough to make the trio pause and exchange wary glances. Once the room had emptied and the door was shut, Kai turned back to them. "This concerns the mana cannons." Holding back the beast wave had been nothing short of miraculous, and by now, word of it had spread across the kingdom like wildfire. Everyone from commoners to nobles was trying to uncover the details of how Veralt had managed to survive when other regions had fallen. The rumours ranged from whispers of divine intervention to more practical theories. The truth, though, was more complex, and Kai knew it. Orions potions, Syphon stones, and enchantments had played a pivotal role, and, of course, the Enforcers were key to their defence. But most people had no idea how much more effective the potions were compared to the standard ones, or how readily available the Syphon stones had become thanks to careful gathering operations. Kai was confident that other regions would eventually try to replicate these innovations, though none could quite match the quality without access to his knowledge. Then there were the enchantments on the walls another factor he suspected would be difficult for outsiders to reproduce. The runes inscribed by his skilled hand combined with his own adjustments, had made the fortress far more durable. But wall enchantments were, in the end, out in the open. News of those enhancements would spread, and it would take little time for any copycat attempts to materialise, just with lesser quality. As for the Enforcers, they needed to be hidden better for now. Their prowess in battle had become the stuff of legends, the force behind Veralt''s defence against the beast wave. It was an open secret in the city that the special forces were as strong as Mages, but their abilities could be explained by the artefacts they wielded. All the Mages from Archine Tower were already monitored and even the mercenaries were warned of spreading rumours. He knew he wouldn''t be able to hide them for eternity, but till they were contained to Veralt, he could always prop up excuses about them. But the mana cannons the mana cannons were the main problem. His thoughts narrowed in on them. The mana cannons were already making waves across the kingdom. No amount of secrecy could hide their presence once they had been deployed in battle. Word of their devastating power had spread faster than he anticipated, and now, with his new title of count and the ceremony drawing nobles from across the land to Veralt, it was only a matter of time before they came knocking. They would want the cannons. No, more than that they would demand them. And if they couldnt buy them outright, they would try to use their influence, or worse, the kingdom itself, to wrest the technology from him. Something like the mana cannon had the potential to change warfare completely, levelling the playing field in ways that even the most powerful noble houses couldnt ignore. Kai had spent sleepless nights during his recovery thinking about how to deal with it. The nobles were always hungry for power, and this new weapon was like blood in the water. Francis had voiced his concerns repeatedly, Balen too. They had already received more than a dozen letters, thinly veiled inquiries about the possibility of purchasing the cannons or their designs. Every noble who had heard about Veralts survival wanted a piece of the technology. But it wasnt just the nobles who were interested the Archine Tower was watching too since the cannons were a direct challenge to their hegemony. More and more, Kai had begun to feel like it would be impossible to keep the mana cannons out of the hands of these preying factions. He could refuse to sell them, of course, but that wouldnt stop them. They would find other ways, through diplomacy or coercion, to acquire the technology. And if that didnt work, theyd appeal to the kingdom itself, arguing that something as game-changing as the mana cannon shouldnt belong to a single individual count or not. That left him with only one option: find a solution before the pressure became too great. And after nights of thinking, he came to a solution. "I know youre both concerned, but I have the answer for dealing with the preying nobles," Kai said. If we cant keep the mana cannons to ourselves, then we just have to start selling them. The statement hung in the air like a sudden shift in the wind, drawing puzzled looks from the three men in the room. Balen grunted and Francis scratched his chin, his brow furrowed in confusion. He exchanged a quick glance with Killian before all of them turned back to Kai with expressions of concern. My lord, Francis spoke first, the hesitation clear in his tone. What are you saying? Wont that just remove a significant advantage we have? The mana cannons are one of the reasons we held off the beast wave in the first place. I dont plan on doing anything stupid, Francis. Of course, we wont be selling the mana cannons we used in battle. What well offer is a regressed version one that can only fire beams equivalent to a second-circle spell. He watched the confusion slowly shift to understanding, though there was still apprehension in their eyes. Balen, leaning forward slightly, spoke next. And if they ask for more, what do we say? We tell them the rumours were exaggerated, Kai said, the hint of a smile on his lips. Let them believe theyre getting the best we have. In reality, theyll be paying a premium for something far weaker than the true cannons. Francis rubbed the back of his neck, his brow still creased with concern. But... wont they try to open them up and copy the design? Were not the only ones with skilled personnel or access to resources. If they figure it out, it could spell trouble. Kais eyes gleamed with a calculating edge. Thats why Ill personally inscribe the failsafe enchantments. If anyone tries to tamper with the cannons or tries to dissect the mechanism, itll trigger an explosion. Nothing left but scrap metal and ashes. Killians expression shifted, and he nodded. Well send a written guide with every purchase, Kai continued. List down how they work and give out warnings for anyone who tries to open them up. It could work, Balen admitted. But wont they try to erase the enchantment first? Or have someone in the tower or a skilled artificer remove it? Kais lips curled into a confident smile. Ill handle that too. The failsafe enchantment will be internal, woven deep into the cannons structure. They wont be able to see it, let alone erase it. It was a clever plan, to outwit the greedy nobles and powerful factions by offering them something that appeared valuable but was, in reality, tightly controlled. However, the concern of how these weapons could still be used against them lingered. But, Killian spoke up, his tone careful, even if we sell these regressed cannons, and even if they dont figure out the enchantments, well still be arming potential enemies. Youve said it yourself we might have to fight in a war soon with the kingdom succession ceremony and the threat of Duke Lucian. What if they use these cannons against us? Thats exactly why were going to sell them, Killian. The cannons we sell will give them a false sense of superiority. Theyll believe they have the upper hand, that they possess weapons as powerful as ours. But all the while, well hold the key. He let his words hang in the air for a moment, his subordinates looking at him with questions on their faces. Then, a sly smile played on his lips. Let me explain everything. Other than the failsafe enchantments and regressed versions, I have planned something else. Something that would ensure the cannons can never be used against us. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 126. Goddess and her words Kai took a deep breath, feeling his decision settling like stones in his chest. They''d overcome a major hurdle, putting their plans into action and creating a way to turn a tricky problem the mana cannon into both a solution and a source of income. Now, his mind buzzed with calculations and possibilities. Nobles would clamour to own the mana cannons unaware that the top-tier versions would remain under his control, their power subtly limiteda clever arrangement, keeping the best for himself while still offering enough allure to satisfy their ambitions. The city was heavy with preparations, the count ceremony drawing nearer with every passing day. Reports came in from Francis, detailing the guest list. Representatives from every significant noble house would be in attendance. Heads of these houses wouldnt bother making the journey unless they held lower ranks like barons or viscounts, but even the more prestigious counts and dukes sent their heirs as delegates. Each name on the list meant more arrangements, more layers of etiquette to navigate, and more eyes evaluating his every move. Word of the event had spread quickly like wildfire catching on dry grass. The citizens buzzed with excitement, eager for the parade, the spectacle anything to distract from the hardship of the past months. And Kai knew, deep down, that the ceremony was more than just pageantry. It was an opportunity to inject life back into an economy that had stalled due to the recent troubles. Yet, with each new day, the rituals of the count ceremony became larger in his thoughts. The basic customs were easy enough, but certain traditions required the involvement of the church. Lancephils church, the third pillar of power in the kingdom, held influence that even the nobles respected. They were officially neutral, but their sway could tip the balance of public opinion in subtle, critical ways. Securing their favour was essential, especially with so many changes sweeping through the city. For Kai, dealing with the church wasnt about reverence or faith. He thought back to the stories of fallen gods which were seen as mere legends in his world. By the time he had been born, religion had dwindled to little more than fanatical cults or simply just whispers of ancient stories. To him, the church was just another player in the game a player that needed to be negotiated with, which meant, business deals rather than anything related to faith. A day after the arrangements for the visiting nobles were made, Kai found himself standing in the shadow of the cathedral in the middle of the city, its spires reaching into the sky like ancient fingers grasping for the heavens. Parts of it were broken and not maintained, simply because they had gotten fewer donations as more and more people had gotten poorer. The architecture bore the crest of the church a golden sun encircled by a crown of ivy, symbolising the light of the goddess Lumaris and her dominion over the natural world. It was a mark seen across Lancephil, representing the most popular and widespread religion in the kingdom. For many, the church was a source of comfort, a pillar that had stood firm even as kingdoms rose and fell, or so people spoke and wrote about it. News of the count ceremony must have travelled quickly because theyd sent a bishop to meet with Kai in record time. To oversee the ceremony, they needed someone with both the authority and the experience someone who could ensure that tradition was respected in every detail. And so, the bishop had arrived with little warning. Bishop Maurice was a man of presence. His robes were pristine white, edged in gold embroidery that shimmered subtly in the light streaming through the cathedral''s stained-glass windows. His face was framed by thinning silver hair, and he had deep-set eyes that seemed to weigh everything they looked upon, and a small, tight smile that hinted at a mind always calculating. As they exchanged formal greetings, Kai noted the emblem pinned over the bishops chest, the same golden sun surrounded by ivy that adorned the cathedrals crest. It is by the grace of Goddess Lumaris that we find ourselves with such a courageous soul, Lord Arzan, Bishop Maurice began. To think that Veralt would rise again under your guidance, and that soon you will be its count. Truly, Goddess Lumaris has blessed you. Kai offered a polite nod, his smile carefully measured. Im grateful for the churchs swift assistance. I know how much it means to have someone of your standing overseeing the ceremony. Maurice inclined his head in acknowledgement, but then his expression shifted, the warm facade giving way to a more businesslike tone. There is another matter we must address, Lord Arzan. You sent a letter recently, mentioning your intention to establish your own education program in Veralt. Naturally, I wanted to discuss this with you. Kai had expected this. He kept his posture relaxed, hands clasped behind his back as if this were merely another casual conversation. Yes, Bishop. We plan to introduce a new educational path here in Veralt and across all the villages, towns and cities under me. A flicker of concern crossed Maurices features, his brow furrowing. I am not sure if you are aware, but the churchs schools have been managing education for generations. They are capable of handling all the needs of the kingdoms youth. Our teachings encompass not only the virtues of the goddess but also the practical skills needed to serve society. Kais expression remained neutral, but inwardly, he braced himself. He offered a smooth, confident response. Ive seen the churchs schools in action, Bishop. In fact, Ive participated in some of the lessons myself. A blatant lie, of course, but one delivered with the ease of someone who had long learned how to keep his face unreadable. However, I intend to take a different approach. I want to create a path that offers more options for the people of Veralt an education that not only instils values but also guides them toward the trades and crafts they wish to pursue. Its about giving them a more thorough understanding of the world beyond our city. Maurices lips pressed into a thin line, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied Kai. It was clear that the bishop had come prepared to assert the churchs traditional role in the kingdom, but now he found himself faced with a man who wasnt looking to conform to old ways. The pause stretched on, a silent exchange of intentions and power, the air thick with unspoken tension. Bishop Maurices expression hardened, a frown pulling at the corners of his mouth. Lord Arzan, you must realise that what you are suggesting goes against the words of the Goddess. Our teachings are clear there is a proper order to such things. Kai met the bishops gaze evenly, his voice steady. I dont believe it is, Bishop. According to the records, the Goddess only decreed that all should be educated, did she not? She did not specify that it must be the church alone that provides that education. You and I, as her followers, have the same right to guide others. Maurice hesitated, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. He took a slow sip of tea that he brought with himself, trying to mask his unease, but his eyes betrayed him. That is true, Lord Arzan, but I am uncertain how well the higher ranks of the church will accept such an interpretation. They have their views on maintaining tradition. Kai allowed a small smile to cross his lips, leaning in slightly. And for that, Bishop, I have a proposal one that might make the higher-ups less concerned about the new education program I intend to establish. A proposal, you say? What do you have in mind, Lord Arzan? I propose to renovate the central church here in Veralt, to make it far grander than it is now one truly worthy of your station, Bishop. With the expansion we anticipate in the city, there will be many more souls coming to settle here. And a larger, more impressive church is bound to attract more attention... and donations. The bishops stern expression softened as he pondered the idea, a glimmer of interest warming his eyes. That... would indeed be a benefit to the churchs presence in Veralt. More space, a grander structure it would be a fine symbol of the goddesss light in these lands. But as the bishops smile widened, Kais turned sharper, cutting through the momentary warmth. Of course, Bishop, there is one small condition. I would expect the churchs cooperation in return. The bishops smile faltered, a shadow passing over his features. I am a servant of the Goddess, Lord Arzan. I only do what she commands. Tell me, Bishop, does the Goddess command her followers to be brave? Maurice straightened, pride flaring in his eyes. Of course. Courage is among the virtues we teach. An important one at that." Kai nodded, his tone turning colder. Then tell me... was it brave when every priest in the city evacuated the moment the beast wave arrived? When they fled rather than staying to heal the wounded, only returning when the danger had already passed? Was that what the Goddess would have wanted? The silence between them thickened, the bishops face paling as he grasped Kais words. His lips pressed tightly together, the rooms warmth seeming to drain away, replaced by a chill that lingered in the air. Bishop Maurice shifted uncomfortably, his eyes darting to the side as he searched for a response. He cleared his throat and all the while when the awkward silence etched between the pair, Kai patiently waited. "The priest who was in charge at the time has been reprimanded, Lord Arzan. He... he failed to show the bravery the Goddess expects of us, He finally said. "Im sure he was," Kai said smoothly. "But dont you think the church could do more?" Maurice stiffened, caught off-guard by the question. "More? What exactly do you mean?" Kai offered a gentle smile. "Im offering to help with the renovations, to make the church a grander place. Ill even contribute to future donations. But in return, I expect the church to help with its divine healing powers during conflicts. Im not asking your priests to fight. I know the church maintains neutrality, but healing the injured? Thats the word of the Goddess. If any wounded citizens return to Veralt, your priests should tend to them. Thats all Im asking." Bishop Maurice hesitated, his fingers tightening around the teacup in his hands. That... would be difficult to arrange. Our resources are often stretched thin, and the clergy is not always available to remain in one place. Kais eyes narrowed slightly, but before he could speak, Maurice quickly added, However, with further discussion, I believe it may be possible to reach a compromise a common point where both the churchs duties and your request can align. A slow smile spread across Kais face. "Thats good to hear, Bishop." As the bishop looked relieved, Kais thoughts swirled. He could see through the situation as clearly as if it were written on parchment. The church, like the nobles and the mages, was making a business deal. Faith might be the language they spoke, but politics and power were the true currencies they traded in. Kai knew the gods were real powerful forces that had shaped the world. But their followers? After centuries, they had turned their devotion into something far more self-serving. If the church was willing to use its faith to its advantage, Kai would be more than happy to do the same. *** Ragnar and his father''s second-in-command Brugnar, strolled through the streets of Veralt. Ragnars broad shoulders and towering height stood out among the citizens, his dark coat lined with wolf fur draped over his frame. Brugnar, just as imposing, wore simpler armour adorned with sigils of their clan a nod to the mountain tribes from where they were. Their attire and presence drew eyes, but the looks weren''t filled with distrust or fear. Murmurs followed them as they passed by a murmur of recognition and curiosity. Ragnars reputation from the recent battle had spread through the city. He had fought against the beast wave alongside Lord Arzans forces, proving himself on the front lines. Though his looks, including his noticeable neck tattoo still made some wary, the people respected his strength. He wasnt exactly liked, but he wasnt disliked either. Brugnar glanced sideways at Ragnar, his voice low as they continued their walk. So, why exactly are we not leaving again? He kept his tone casual, but his eyes gleamed with curiosity. Ragnars gaze remained fixed ahead, his expression hard. He swirled his tattooed tongue over his lips before answering. Because we gain nothing if we leave now. Theres still more for us to learn here. Brugnar raised an eyebrow and touched his single-braided beard. We got experience already. You proved yourself in the beast wave and fought alongside Blessing One''s men. Its far more than your father even wanted when he sent you down south. Ragnars jaw tightened, and he let out a frustrated breath. Maybe. But it also made me realise just how inadequate I am. His voice dropped, barely above a murmur, as he scanned the crowd ahead, making sure no one was close enough to overhear. I expected to be weaker than Mages. But even his knights, BrugnarArzans menthey used elements. Fire, lighting, things I thought only a Blessed One could wield. Yet theyre not blessed by spirits. Theyve tapped into some other power. Brugnars eyes darkened as he mulled over the words. Aye, I saw it too. But I doubt anyone here would be willing to share that power with us. They know who we are, and dont forget, were still at war with Lancephil. S~ea??h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Ragnars expression turned grim, the tension coiling in his shoulders. Exactly. And thats why I need it. Without that power, well always be beneath the Mages, beneath their knights. Always outmatched. If were to have any chance in this war, I need to understand what theyve tapped into, and make it my own. Brugnars gaze swept over the crowd, considering the murmurs of the people around them. Well have to tread carefully, then. The last thing we need is to draw the wrong kind of attention. Ragnars eyes narrowed, but a fierce determination burned in them. Carefully, yes. But I wont leave this city without figuring out how to close the gap. We need to become more than just warriors from the north if were going to survive what comes next. Ragnar nodded to Brugnar, but his attention quickly shifted as cheers and loud clamour erupted from behind them. Turning, he caught sight of yet another nobles caravan making its way through the crowded streets. Fine carriages flanked by armoured guards rolled past, the insignia of a minor noble house painted in bold colours on their banners. The crowd gathered eagerly, commoners craning their necks for a glimpse of the new arrivals, some even cheering as the caravan made its way down the cobblestone road. Ragnar frowned, his brows knitting together. He had seen plenty of such spectacles since yesterday nobles parading through the city as if they owned it. He had stayed inside most of the time, avoiding the streets precisely because he didnt want to attract any unwanted attention. But even now, out here, he couldnt avoid the display of wealth and power. He glanced back to Brugnar. You see that? he muttered, voice barely audible over the noise of the crowd. All these nobles are pouring in because of the new title. Its infuriating... They act like its a parade in their honour. We fought in the battle. Not them. Anger flared within Ragnar, hot and bitter. It gnawed at him, making his hands itch to punch something or someone till they bleed. But he took a deep breath, forcing the feeling down, refusing to let it control him. He couldnt afford to let rage guide his actions not here, not now. With a resigned sigh, he adjusted his hood and started weaving through the crowd, trying to keep his head down. Brugnar did the same, the two of them slipping through the gaps in the gathered masses. The murmurs of admiration directed toward the noble caravan grated on Ragnars nerves, but he kept his composure. Ragnar broke the silence as they walked. With so many nobles in one place, its strange nothing bad has happened yet. Feels like were just waiting for lightning to strike us dead. Brugnar chuckled through his nose, keeping his voice low. Nobles always bring trouble, dont they? Put a few of them together, and its just a matter of time before something goes wrong. Theyre like peacocks showy and proud but get too many of them in one place, and they start fighting over the same patch of dirt. Ragnar smirked, but his attention shifted when a sharp shout rang out, cutting through the noise of the crowd. He turned his head, the sound coming from a nearby alley, close to the inn where theyd been staying. His instincts sharpened, and without a word, he moved toward the source of the commotion, Brugnar following closely behind. As they drew closer, they saw the scene unfolding: a small boy, barely more than ten years old, lay crumpled on the ground, his face streaked with dirt and tears. A man dressed in fine robes, clearly noble by his garb and the sneering expression on his face, loomed over him. The nobles boot came down hard, grinding into the boys back, eliciting a pained yelp from the child. The crowd around them murmured in discomfort, but no one dared to intervene. Brugnars face twisted with a dark scowl as he observed the scene, and Ragnars grip tightened around the edge of his cloak, struggling to maintain his composure. He glanced at Brugnar, whose jaw clenched with unspoken frustration. Ragnar took a slow, steadying breath and whispered. Guess that trouble didnt take long to show up, after all. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 127. A change of heart Ragnars hand gripped the edge of his cloak, tugging the hood lower as the crowd jostled around him. He kept his head down, hiding the sharp angles of his face, the wild look in his eyes anything that might mark him as an outsider. His uncle stood beside him, just as concealed, but there was tension in the way his shoulders hunched beneath the cloak. They were both on edge, blending into the mass of onlookers, as the scene unfolded before them. Ragnars jaw tightened as his eyes locked onto the noble in the centre of the commotion. The mans expensive robes stained with dust and marked by a jagged tear, flared as he swung another kick into the side of a boy who couldn''t be more than ten. Each impact made the kid crumple further, barely holding himself up, his face twisted in pain. The rage simmered in Ragnars chest, bubbling just below the surface. A low growl rumbled in his throat, and his fingers itched to wrap around the nobles throat. But he held himself back, forcing the heat of his anger to a slow burn. It was like an iron chain holding him in place. He clenched his fists, knuckles cracking under the strain, and the memories of Arzans caution played in his mind. Veralt wasnt a place that should welcome a barbarian. Hooded or not, if he made a move now, the nobles swarming into the city would surely know their identity. Most of the people in Veralt saw them more as mercenaries rather than barbarians, but it wouldn''t take long for their identity to come out. But the nobles voice cut through his thoughts, sharp and filled with disgust. You filthy street rat! Do you know what youve done? He shoved the boy into the dirt again, oblivious to the onlookers murmurs. A few in the crowd winced, but no one dared intervene. Ragnars sharp ears caught snippets of the whispers weaving through the throng. The boy... bumped into him... Made him fall... Ripped his robe... Ragnars gaze shifted to the nobles ruined attire a slice of fine fabric hung loose, flapping in the wind, stained with mud and trampled dirt. The mans pride was wounded more than his body, and he unleashed that humiliation on the defenceless kid, fists raised. Ragnar felt the heat flare in his chest again, burning hotter than before. He glanced at Brugnar, words slipping through gritted teeth. I cant just stand here. That boy doesnt deserve this. Ragnars breath quickened, his jaw clenching so hard it ached. Anger flared within him, the kind that boiled just beneath the surface. His hand itched to reach for the axe hidden beneath his cloak. He could hear the crowds whispers, bits of the story trickling through: the kid had accidentally knocked into the noble, sending him sprawling in the dirt. In the chaos, someones boot had torn the noble''s robe. It was enough to turn a minor accident into a public spectacle. Ragnar''s eyes narrowed, taking in the scene the dust clinging to the nobles pristine clothes, the kids bleeding lip, and the way the crowd kept a cautious distance. He could feel the injustice like a knife twisting in his gut. He leaned closer to his uncle, his voice low and tight. I want to help him. No kid should have to go through that. Brugnars grip on Ragnars shoulder tightened, pulling him back. We have orders, Ragnar. This isnt our land, and we arent among our own. Behave. Let it play out. But the kid" Just watch. The city guards will step in soon enough. They wont let a noble cause a scene like this, especially with so many around. Ragnars teeth ground together, but he forced himself to nod, his fists trembling at his sides. He tried to ignore the burning urge to intervene, focusing instead on the crowd parting near the street''s edge. A patrol of three guards moved forward, the gleam of their armour catching the light. At the head of them, he recognized Gareth, whod fought with him during the beast wave. Sarch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The guards pushed through the crowd, their expressions a mix of exasperation and wariness. Gareths voice was loud over the nobles ranting. Enough! Whats the meaning of this? He motioned for his men to pull the kid up, brushing the dust from his clothes. State your reasons for beating this child. Ragnar released a breath he didnt realise hed been holding, tension thrumming in his muscles. He didnt like standing by, but for now, all he could do was watch how this played out. The nobles sneer deepened, his cheeks flushed red with anger. He jabbed a finger towards the boy. He dared to block my path and bump into me! A common street urchin knocked me into the dirt. A beating is the least he deserves. Gareths expression didnt change, but his eyes grew colder. Its against the law to assault anyone like this. And against a child? Its beyond disgraceful. No matter the reason. The nobles lips curled into a smirk, a hint of arrogance lighting his features. It seems you dont know who youre speaking to. He puffed out his chest, adjusting the collar of his torn robe as if the gesture alone could restore his lost dignity. Baron Radomir of House Felden. I demand that you apologise for your insolent tone and let the boy come with me for his punishment, or Ill ensure your dismissal when I meet with the lord. Gareths frown deepened, but he didnt flinch. He crossed his arms, his stance unwavering. Feel free to take it up with the lord, Baron. We have orders from Lord Arzan Kellius himself to apprehend anyone disturbing the peace noble or not. His tone hardened, each word landing like a hammer. For beating a child in the streets, youll be taken into custody." The barons face twisted with fury, his eyes narrowed into slits. You dare to challenge me? A mere guard? His voice dripped with scorn, but there was something else beneath the anger an edge of danger. A surge of mana crackled in the air around him, a pulse rippling outwards like a sudden gust of wind. The crowd recoiled, murmurs turning into gasps as they felt the energy wash over them. Ragnar felt the whoosh of the air. The barons smirk widened, relishing the shift in the crowds fear. It seems like aristocracy has no respect in these lands... but Im certain Mages do. I am a First Circle Mage of the Archine Tower. He raised a hand, letting the mana swirl and gather in his palm, a faint, sickly light flickering around his fingers. Now, stand down and let the boy come with me, or Ill make sure your defiance is the last mistake you ever make. For a moment, silence fell over the street, the tension crackling like a drawn bowstring, poised to snap. Gareth knelt beside the crying boy, his rough hands surprisingly gentle as he helped the child up, passing him off to one of the guards. "Give him the potions we carry," Gareth instructed. The guard nodded, immediately reaching for a small vial from his belt pouch its liquid inside glowing faintly with healing magic. Soon, he poured the potion into the boys mouth, and the bruises and cuts began to knit together. Gareth turned back to the noble, his aura shifting from concern to iron resolve. Miscreants have no place here, no matter their title or magical abilities. This city respects aristocracy true aristocracy those who know how to conduct themselves with dignity. Not like unruly ruffians. I don''t think it suits your titles or stature to act as you do." Radomirs face twisted with rage, his control slipping with each word Gareth spoke. His mana flared again, a ripple of chill spreading through the cobbled street. The crowd backed away, sensing the escalation, but Gareth remained steadfast, his gaze unyielding. The baron''s hand clenched tightly at his side. "Enough! Radomir''s voice cut through the crowd''s whispers like a blade. I challenge you to a duel, whatever your name is. Right here, right now. Ill take your head and bring it to your lord, make him kneel and beg forgiveness for your insolence. Gareths expression barely shifted, only the faintest shadow of exasperation crossing his features. He shook his head slowly, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword. Im Gareth. And just for your information, my lord isnt the sort to lower his head to people like you, Baron. But if youre so eager for a fight He sighed, drawing his sword in a smooth motion, the polished steel catching the afternoon light. I accept your challenge. Ragnar stood on the edge of the scene, his hood casting a shadow over his face, hiding the turmoil within. He watched Gareth with something akin to awe as he faced down the Mage without a single shred of hesitation. His expression was calm, his stance loose but prepared a warrior ready to strike at any moment. It was as if facing a Mage meant nothing more than a minor inconvenience, a task to be handled. In the pit of his chest, a question gnawed at Ragnars mind. He clenched his fists beneath his cloak, feeling the calluses on his palms. The answer came bitterly, a truth he couldnt deny The thought was painful, a small wound to his pride. Against someone with the powers of a Mage, Ragnar would be outmatched, his strength as insignificant as a wave against a cliff. He winced at the realisation, watching as the space cleared for the duel. The crowd, once a chaotic mass, now held its breath, the air thick with anticipation. Gareth and Radomir took their positions, the noble''s mana flaring brighter around him while Gareths sword gleamed with a promise of cold, precise violence. Ragnars heart pounded in his chest as the tension reached a fever pitch, both men preparing to clash and he knew that whatever happened next would not end peacefully. The noble''s laugh rang out, loud and mocking, as the crowd scrambled back, clearing the street. Fear rippled through the onlookers, the anticipation of magical crossfire driving them to keep their distance. Youve got guts for a guard, Ill give you that, the noble taunted, his lips curling into a sneer. But today, those guts will be spilt on the street. Gareths expression remained as cold as the steel in his hand. Well see about that. The nobles hands moved in intricate gestures, mana swirling around him as he began to construct a spell. A symbol of water shimmered into existence, and a stream of high-pressure water burst forth from his palm, rushing toward Gareth like a serpent. Ragnar thought to himself as his mind raced through the elements of the spell structure the water spell seemed hastily woven, its mana flow unstable, not like the precise formations he''d seen before. Still, even a rough spell like this could sling a deadly projectile, something that could turn a fight in a Mages favour. But Gareth moved with a speed that took the noble by surprise. He slipped through the stream like a shadow, barely breaking stride as the water hissed and splattered against the street behind him. The nobles eyes widened in shock, and he cut off the stream with a sharp gesture, switching to a barrage of water shards. Mana crackled, forming crystalline spikes that shot towards Gareth, smashing into the cobblestones just ahead of him. Yet Gareth was undeterred. He vaulted over the icy debris, rolling and closing the distance in a blur. For a heartbeat, Ragnar thought he saw a flicker of purple light coil around Gareths legs a trace of some power before it vanished. The Enforcer surged forward, his sword arcing down toward the noble with lethal intent. Desperation flashed across Radomir''s face as he unsheathed his blade, bringing it up just in time to parry. But even as he prepared another spell, Gareths movements were unpredictable. With a sharp turn of his head, the nobles casting broke when Gareth spat in his face, a crude but effective distraction. It successfully earned a few gasps from the crowd. The spells structure collapsed, and the mana dissipated into thin air, leaving the noble exposed. Gareths blade bit into the nobles shoulder with a sickening rip, slicing through cloth and skin alike. The fine robe tore, and a crimson stain spread through the fabric as Radomir howled in pain. He staggered back, clutching at the wound, but Gareth wasnt done. He seized the noble by his hair, yanking him down and driving a knee into his face. Blood splattered onto the cobbles as he crumpled, gasping and writhing. Gareth planted a boot on Radomir''s back, forcing him down into the dirt. His voice was steady, carrying through the hushed street. The duel is over. But take this as a lesson noble, Mage, or commoner, there are laws in this city, and everyone will respect them. With a gesture to his fellow guards, Gareth stepped back as they seized the fallen noble by the arms, dragging him toward their headquarters. Blood dripped from Radomir''s nose onto the street, and the once-proud Mage now looked like little more than a beaten stray. Well hold him until our lord decides his fate. With that, as quickly as it had gathered, the crowd dispersed, murmurs fading into the alleys and side streets of Veralt. Ragnar stood rooted to the spot, his eyes lingering on the spot where the noble had been dragged away, still feeling the aftermath of the quick, brutal battle hed just witnessed. He clenched and unclenched his fists, feeling the itch of unspent energy crawling under his skin. Brugnar, standing at his side, turned to him with a raised brow. See this, boy? This is why you need to stay low, not stir trouble. We aren''t the strongest here by a mile. Ragnar''s gaze shifted as he spat on the cobblestone ground. No, this is why I want to be here. I want to make the Lombards stronger. Our tribe needs more than just the strength of our arms. I need to learn the ways of this city... find a path to power thats more than just swinging a sword. Brugnar crossed his arms, eyes narrowing. And how do you plan to do that? You dont have the authority from your father to make decisions for the tribe. Ragnars jaw tightened, but he didnt back down. I know, uncle. Fathers authority binds my hands, but it doesnt bind my will. I still want to start something, build a foundation here. He turned his head to the side, the wind ruffling his hood as he considered his next words. There was a tension in his shoulders like a rope pulled taut, ready to snap. And whats the first step in this grand plan of yours? Ragnar let out a long breath, his chest heaving slightly. He rubbed the back of his neck, searching for the right answer, the right direction. His thoughts spun, turning over possibilities, strategies, and risks. But each path seemed to start the same way, a humbling realisation taking root in his mind. An apology, he said finally, the word leaving a bitter taste on his tongue. His uncles brows lifted in surprise. For the arrogance our people have shown. For the times weve acted like mere bandits... if we want to be a part of this land, we need to start by acknowledging that. His uncle grunted, half-amused, half-cautious. Hmph, not exactly the warpath I expected from you, boy. You think an apology will make them see us differently? Ragnars lips quirked into a half-smile, a trace of mischief glinting in his eyes. No. But itll give me a chance to show them what the Lombards can offer beyond the blade. And it might just keep us from being seen as a potential threat... for now. Youve got the fire in you, Ragnar, Ill give you that. Just dont let it burn you before youve even got a chance to light the way. Ragnar nodded at that, taking in the wise words and looking up at the pathway that led to Arzan''s estate. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 128. Watchers As he had expected, the news of the count ceremony spread through noble circles like wildfire. By the time Kai received the official word, it was already old news among the aristocracy. Couriers and envoys from various noble houses flooded into his territory, each bearing the colours of their family crests. Now, the presence of their emissaries in Veralt has become a daily headache. Each one demanded attention, their lofty manners and doubtable questions demanding hours of his time, as they were technically his guests. The grand halls of the castle bustled with these well-dressed visitors, their voices a constant hum in the background. With so many minor nobles arriving, the inns in the city had filled up quickly, leaving latecomers scrambling for even the humblest accommodations. Some attempted to sway him into securing rooms within the castle itself, but he had no interest in accommodating their whims any more than necessary. Invitations piled up on his desk, the elegant wax seals still intact on most. Each scroll was an appeal for private meetings and discussions, likely filled with offers or power plays. He waved them aside, declining each with a polite but firm message: he would be focused solely on the count ceremony preparations until it concluded. Instead, he planned to host a banquet after the ceremony, a gathering where he could address everyone at once. It would save him the trouble of navigating their hidden agendas in private settings, at least for a time. He found himself sighing more than once throughout the day. The luxury of managing his territory, expanding its borders, and seeing the fruits of his labour flourish that was something he could appreciate. But the endless parade of noble politics? That was another matter entirely. Yet, this was the reality he had to accept; he was now going to be a count, no longer a solitary figure in the shadows. It was a new game, and whether he liked it or not, he would play his part. Still, he couldnt help but wish the nobles would conduct themselves with some measure of grace during their stay. But even that hope was fading as reports trickled in minor scuffles at the inns, one noble attempting to strong-arm a local merchant, another angered by the "rustic" accommodations. It seemed that despite his careful planning, trouble was already brewing. I honestly expected nobles to conduct themselves better in someone else''s territory, but they don''t seem to understand decorum, Kai muttered, looking over at the two people next to him. Killian and Ansel stood atop the rooftop of the castles watchtower alongside him, a cold breeze sweeping through the evening air, carrying the distant sounds of a city that refused to sleep. Below them, the city lights flickered through the haze, a patchwork of lanterns casting warm glows across stone streets and wooden facades. From up here, they could see the nobles'' quarters, inns bursting with activity, and the guarded gates of the castle marking the invisible boundaries between the commoners and the visiting aristocracy. Killian leaned against the railing, his brows furrowed as he spoke, recounting the latest trouble. "That incident with Gareth turned out to be messier than we thought. The baron lost his temper, got rough with the kid. We had to release him after a stern warning since he offered an apology and swore he''d pay for the injuries. But he was fuming when I turned down his request to see Gareth punished. He didn''t take that well." Kai''s lips formed a thin line. "The barons got his head too far up his ass. Thinks being a shoddy Mage gives him free rein over everything. But maybe this whole ordeal will be a lesson. Word of it will spread soon enough, and the rest of the nobles might start staying in their rooms, behaving like proper guests instead of acting like they own the place." Killian gave a small nod, though a shadow of doubt lingered in his eyes. "Id like to believe that, but I wouldnt hold my breath. The moment they heard about your title, a lot of big names sent their representatives. All the Dukes have sent someone except your brother, of course. And Knight Darians been strutting around in the colours of House Blackwood. The others, though, don''t seem like theyre here just for the ceremony. Troubles practically written on their faces. Kai turned his attention to Ansel, who stood quietly beside them, arms folded, his keen eyes scanning the streets below. "That''s why Ansel is here," Kai said. Kai shifted his focus to Ansel, who had been standing quietly, listening to the exchange. At the mention of his name, Ansel straightened, a momentary stiffness betraying his nerves. He dipped into a bow, his voice steady but a bit tight. "I will do my best, my lord. If they step out of their line, well know about it, and inform you the first thing." Kai chuckled softly, waving a hand in a casual gesture. "Relax, Ansel. When we first met, you were far more reckless, remember?" Ansels expression remained serious as he replied, I can''t afford to be careless anymore, not with this kind of responsibility. I''m the head of the Watchers now. Kais gaze flickered with a hint of approval as he considered Ansels words. The Watchers were a special unit that he had tasked Killian with forming a covert information network designed to operate within Veralt and eventually across the entire kingdom. Their mission was to gather every scrap of intelligence, from the whispers of nobles in shadowed halls to the rumours drifting through bustling marketplaces. At present, there were only six or seven members in the fledgling team, but Kai had ambitious plans to expand their numbers to at least a hundred by the end of the year. With the growth of his territory, it was becoming more feasible. He intended to send them out, using his potions, strategic insights, and leveraging Malden''s merchant network, which had already agreed to assist in spreading their reach. It was a slow, methodical process, but once completed, he would have eyes and ears on nearly every corner of the kingdom. "Responsibility is only given to those I believe can handle it," Kai said, his tone firm. "So, have you run into any problems in the role so far? Ansels mouth twitched into a hint of a smile, though it didnt reach his eyes. "It''s only been a day in this position, but Ive already started conducting interviews and placed the initial recruits around the castle to keep an eye on the nobles. Stealth and quick movement arent easy skills to find, but we''re training with the instructions you provided. He hesitated for a moment, then added, "If theres one thing... I dont quite know what to do with Gareth. Hes been persistent about wanting to join the Watchers. Kai raised an eyebrow, intrigued. The mention of Gareths interest in joining the team was unexpected. But the more he thought, the more it made sense. His eyes narrowed slightly as he turned to Ansel, who had been standing by with a mix of focus and unease. Why does it bother you so much? Kais tone was calm, but there was an edge of curiosity in it, a desire to understand the undercurrents of Ansel''s hesitation. Ansel hesitated, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. The wind tugged at his cloak, revealing the tension in his stance. Its... because hes an Enforcer, and Im just... normal, Ansel admitted, his voice barely above a murmur. Technically, he should be the leader. Im paperless, no official status. His fingers flexed unconsciously as if reaching for a scroll that didn''t exist. Kai studied him, letting the silence stretch for a moment before responding. Leadership isn''t about power, Ansel. Its about who can guide others, who can see more than just whats in front of them, he explained, his gaze direct. Gareth might be stronger, but strength alone doesnt make a leader. Youve seen the kingdom the good, the bad, the politics, and the shadows. You know how to navigate that better than most. Youre quick on your feet, and you think before you act. Thats why youre in charge. Ansel absorbed the words, his shoulders relaxing slightly, though his brow remained furrowed. He glanced toward the rooftops, the city spreading out below them, a patchwork of stone and life. I think I understand, he said, nodding slowly. Its just... strange, thinking Im in charge of someone like him. Gareths a warrior at heart, Kai continued, his voice steady. Hes good at following orders, and he wont try to undermine you. He knows where his strengths lie, and he respects yours. Trust me on this he wouldnt want to lead this team even if he had the chance. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Ansels nod became firmer, and some of the uncertainty faded from his expression. Ill make sure it works out. Kais lips curved into a faint smile before he shifted the conversation. And dont forget, Gareth recently unlocked his element. Shadow affinity. Rare and difficult to master, but with it, hell be able to move faster and stay unseen when needed. Thatll come in handy for the teams work. As Kai spoke, his attention drifted to the scene unfolding below. He caught sight of three guards, two of them gesturing angrily, their faces twisted with frustration as they confronted a third who seemed to stand slightly apart, head lowered. Kais eyes narrowed, recognition sparking in his mind. Isnt that Palman? he asked, a note of curiosity slipping into his voice. Killian followed Kais gaze and grunted. Yeah, thats him. Hes still struggling to fit in. Its better than it used to be, but... well, not everyones forgiven him for the whole weaver incident. Kai exhaled, a low, thoughtful sound. I told them hes alright showed them he could be trusted. But old stains linger, dont they? He watched Palman, the man trying to keep his composure while the others practically shouted in his face, the discomfort clear on his features. Stigmas dont wash away easily. For a moment, he continued watching, his mind turning over possibilities, weighing the balance of fear and mistrust among his guards. Then, a new idea came to his mind. Kai straightened, a gleam in his eye as he turned to Ansel. I need you to do something. Ansel blinked, straightening instinctively, awaiting orders. *** With how busy everything had been, Kai hadnt realised just how quickly time had flown. Now, the day of the count ceremony had arrived, looming large over Veralt. Francis had been in charge of the preparations, directing every last detail with his usual precision. Hed constructed a grand platform in the central plaza, neatly arranging rows of seats for nobles and other important guests. For the commoners, there was no such luxury theyd have to stand, watching from behind the designated area. As the day dawned, it became clear that the lack of seating wasnt an issue. The entire city seemed to hum with anticipation. From shopkeepers to housewives, farmers to artisans, nearly everyone who could stand on their own two feet had gathered in the plaza. Even those who werent feeling well-found ways to be there, leaning on family or friends for support. The chatter was a constant murmur, with faces turned toward the platform, eyes squinting at the seats reserved for the nobles, trying to catch glimpses of the prominent figures who had arrived for the event. The plaza itself was a sea of activity bright banners fluttered in the crisp breeze, and stalls selling refreshments lined the surrounding streets. Children darted between the gathered crowds, laughter mixing with the occasional shout. The noble families, dressed in fine silks and tailored suits, were a stark contrast to the more practical, worn clothing of the commoners, their carriages parked nearby like glittering ornaments. Guards patrolled every corner, maintaining a vigilant watch. Enforcers from the city moved through the crowds, keeping the peace and ensuring that the excitement didnt boil over into chaos. They remained alert, their eyes scanning for any hint of trouble, knowing that this many people in one place carried its own risks. As the hour approached, the bishop arrived in his ceremonial robes, his presence signalling the solemnity of the occasion. Alongside him was the herald of King Sullivan, his armour polished to a mirror shine. They took their places on the platform, the bishop clasping a book of rites, while the herald bore the royal crest, an unmistakable symbol of the kings authority. The chatter of the crowd grew quieter, curiosity sharpening their gazes toward the platform. Then, the sound of hooves and wheels reached their ears, growing louder with each passing second. A grand carriage rolled into view, flanked by Enforcers in formation, their expressions stern and focused. The carriages crest gleamed in the sunlight, and the air thrummed with anticipation. Someone in the crowd pointed at it and shouted, Lord Arzan is here! A ripple of excitement ran through the gathered crowd, all eyes turning to watch the carriage as it came to a halt near the platform, ready for the ceremony to begin. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 129. Count Arzan Kais feet took him one step after another towards the square. Even though he was still a considerable amount of distance away from the people, he could practically feel the thrum of the anticipation that reeked from everyone who awaited his presence. A sea of faces turned towards him as he approached the stage. The cheers began as a low murmur, but as the crowd caught sight of him, it swelled into a roar. Lord Arzan! Lord Arzan! Lord Arzan! His name echoed through the air. He took in the scene around him, a sense of surrealism washing over him. Banners in vibrant colours flapped in the breeze, bearing his crestnewly designed for this dayand the people, dressed in their best, filled every corner of the square. Killian and Francis flanked him as they made their way toward the stage, their expressions proud but steely, each step mirroring his own. As they climbed onto the raised platform, Kai''s gaze swept over the assembled nobles seated in the reserved section. Faces familiar and unfamiliar greeted him, some stern and unreadable, others offering thin smiles of politeness. There was Lord Marcus, first son of the influential Duke Roan Raktor who supported the third Prince Thalric. Beside him, Lady Seraphine of House Valemount which was right next to Alparca Kingdom, whose family held sway over the infamous silver mines, looked on with curiosity, her fan hiding a subtle smile. At the edge of the group stood Brinth Ashford, second son of Duke Ashford, leaning back with an air of disinterest that barely concealed his envy. His house supported the second Prince Aldrin. A few others lingered in the background, nodding when Kais eyes met theirs. He also saw Darian being seated in the second row, and noticed the owner of recent troubles child kicker Baron Radomir being seated in the fourth row wrapped up in bandages. He took a moment to take it all in. For a moment, he felt as if he could read their thoughts some waiting to see if he would stumble, others assessing his worth in silence. But it was the faces beyond the nobles that captured his attention, pulling him away from the politics and formality. The commoners filled every available space, stretching out to the edge of the square, even climbing onto barrels and stalls for a better view. Children clung to their parents, waving tiny flags, and the elderly leaned on canes, eyes glistening with pride. They cheered as loudly as their lungs allowed, their voices mingling into a single jubilant chant that surged like the tide. A young boy, perched on his fathers shoulders, waved vigorously, his cheeks flushed with excitement. A grandmother, her weathered face beaming, clasped her hands in silent prayer. A blacksmith he recognized from a brief encounter in Balen''s workshop pumped his fist in the air, shouting his name with the fervour of a man whose life had seen a change. The realisation struck Kai then, like a sudden punch to the gut. These peopletheir joy, their hopeit all stemmed from what he had done. The title of nobility had been an opportunity, a chance he had seized because it made sense. It was pragmatic, a path to more influence and security. But now, seeing the faces of those who had placed their faith in him, he understood that it had become more than that. He had changed something real, something tangible. He had made a difference. And that, far more than the weight of any title or the authority it carried, mattered to him. He let out a slow breath, steadying himself as he faced forward once more. Teran Hale, the kingdoms herald, stepped forward. By the decree of His Majesty, King Sullivan, ruler of the Lancephil Kingdom, Teran began, unfurling a scroll that glinted with gold edges, we recognize the valour and bravery of Arzan Kellius, who stood against the beast wave that threatened the lands of Veralt. The crowd fell silent, hanging onto every word as Teran spoke. Kai remained still, his expression composed, though his heart thudded in his chest. He lowered himself onto one knee, the formal gesture required during such ceremonies, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on him. By royal decree, the lands of Verdis are granted to him, and the title of Count is bestowed upon Arzan Kellius, Teran continued, his voice steady, carrying the weight of centuries of tradition. In recognition of his service, may he govern with wisdom and strength, and may his name be honoured in the annals of history. Kai bowed his head, keeping his gaze fixed on the ground as Terans words echoed around him. The bishop stepped forward next, draped in flowing golden robes adorned with the sigils of the goddess. He raised his staff high, the crystal at its tip catching the sunlight, casting a myriad of colours over the stage. May the blessings of the goddess Lumaris be upon you, Count Arzan Kellius, Bishop Anselm intoned, his voice a low murmur that seemed to resonate deep within Kais bones. May your path be guided by her light, and may your rule bring prosperity to this land. A weight settled into Kais hands the land deed, bound in leather and sealed with the royal insignia. As he accepted it, the finality of his new role seemed to settle over him, heavy yet invigorating. The cheers from the crowd rose once more, a wave of sound that crashed over him as he rose to his feet. For a moment, he allowed himself a brief smile, feeling the energy of the crowd seep into him, their joy and hope mingling with his own resolve. This was the beginning of a new chapter not just for him, but for the city itself. Kai took a deep breath, letting the energy of the crowd fuel him as he faced the sea of people below. The roar of their voices began to settle, giving way to a hushed anticipation as they waited for him to speak. He glanced at the nobles, the commoners, and everyone who had gathered to witness this moment. He could feel their eyes and hopes pressing on him, but for the first time, he welcomed it. With a confident step forward, he raised his hand, and the square fell into silence. He began with a formal tone, addressing the figures of power who looked on with keen interest. "I want to extend my deepest gratitude to His Majesty, King Sullivan, and to the kingdom that has entrusted me with this great honour." Kais voice was steady, each word deliberate. "To be named a Count is no small responsibility, and I pledge my unwavering loyalty to the crown and the kingdom. I will continue to serve with the same dedication that has brought us to this day." He paused, letting the words hang in the air for a moment before shifting his gaze to the crowd of commoners. Faces young and old looked back at him, eyes filled with hope and admiration. The warmth in their expressions struck a chord within him, and he allowed a softer smile to cross his face. "When I first took on my duties as lord of Veralt, this city was in troubled times. You all know it well uncertainties and dangers loomed over us. Yet, through perseverance and unity, we have come far. Together, we faced challenges and overcame them. We rebuilt, we grew, and when the beast wave came, we did not falter. We stood our ground, and together, we prevailed." A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd, some nodding, others clapping in appreciation. Kai''s expression grew more sincere as he continued, his voice carrying the conviction that had guided him through those difficult times. "But I did not do this alone. Many of you have played a role in our progress. It is time I recognize the efforts of those who stood beside me through it all. I have some announcements that I couldnt make before, but now is the time to honour those who deserve it." He turned to his left, where Francis stood, looking both proud and a bit anxious. "First of all, I want to acknowledge Francis, who has served as an administrator with unwavering dedication. He has managed the affairs of this city with diligence, ensuring that our recovery and growth were steady and strong." Kai allowed a smile as he glanced at his who-was-now a friend. "Your work behind the scenes, Francis, has been invaluable. Without you, many of our achievements would not have been possible." Kai reached into his coat and produced a rolled-up document, the seal of Veralt stamped on its surface. He held it out with both hands, and Francis stepped forward to accept it, his hands trembling. "This is the deed to a house by the river, one that will be renovated according to your preferences. A small token of gratitude for everything youve done." Franciss lips quivered as he took the deed, a rare shine of tears gathering in his eyes. He bowed deeply, his voice thick with emotion as he spoke. "Thank you, Lord Arzan. I... I will continue to serve Veralt and now Veridis with all my heart." Kai nodded warmly, giving Francis a pat on the back as the crowd applauded, many of the commoners cheering the familiar face who had often met with them directly. Sar?h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Then, Kai''s gaze shifted, scanning the ranks of guards and Enforcers who stood in formation at the edge of the square. He cleared his throat, turning his attention to them. "Next, I want to recognize those who put their lives on the line our city guards! They have fought to protect us, to keep the peace, and they were crucial during the darkest days of the beast wave. Their bravery deserves recognition." He motioned to Claire, who stood to the side with a large chest. She opened it, revealing the glint of polished swords, spears and other weapons inside, their hilts adorned with intricate designs. Each weapon bore a unique engraving, a sign of the enchantments that Kai had carefully crafted into them. Kai stepped forward, his voice carrying over the gathered guards. "As a token of the citys gratitude, I present these blades to those who have stood out, who have gone above and beyond in their duties." Gareth. Gareths lips twitched into a rare smile as he accepted the sword from Kai. He took a moment to turn it in his hands, feeling the weight, before pressing the blade against his chest, his knuckles white as he clutched it close. The cheers from the crowd swelled, and Gareths eyes shone as he bowed to Kai. Clement. A slender man with a slight limp in his gait strode forward, his face tight with emotion. When the sword touched his hands, his lips parted in a breathless exhale, as if the moment was too great to fully comprehend. He raised the weapon above his head, letting the sunlight catch along the polished steel. The crowd roared their approval. Feroy. Feroys eyes gleamed with determination as he took his place. The Enforcer ran a finger along the spears edge, testing its sharpness, a small grin playing on his lips. He turned to the crowd, raising the weapon with a flourish, and a few cheers transformed into wild whoops. He basked in it, standing a little taller, as though the weight of the spear had made him realise the strength he already possessed. Bord. Bords movements were slower, more deliberate. He bowed his head as he took the sword, whispering something under his breath a prayer, perhaps, or a vow. He ran a calloused hand over the hilt, a fleeting look of reverence crossing his face before he tucked the sword against his side, nodding with quiet gratitude towards Kai. Bran. The man walked forward with his head held high. As an earth affinity based enforcer, hed proved himself over and over. Kai felt the pride he beamed when he looked at the crowd that was present. He took the sword and bowed gracefully before stepping backwards with a subtle smile playing on his lips. Talon. Talons steps were quick, eager, his smile wide enough to split his face as he accepted the spear. He was one of the newly acquired Enforcers. He spun it in his hands with a flourish, showing off his dexterity before holding it up to the sky. The crowds cheers seemed to energise him, and he tilted his head back, letting the sound wash over him like a wave. Lyra. The only woman among them, Lyras chin was held high as she stepped forward. Her expression remained unreadable, but there was a gleam of something fierce in her eyes as she took the sword. For a moment, she simply stared at it, as if seeing a reflection of all her struggles and triumphs in the polished metal. Then, with a sharp nod, she sheathed it at her hip, and a small, determined smile tugged at her lips. As each name was called, the crowds cheers grew louder, a rolling tide of approval that swept through the square. Kai felt the energy of the moment, the effect of his words, and the strength in the hands that now held those blades. But then, his voice grew sombre as he spoke the last name, the one who could not step forward to claim his due. Nelson. Although hes not here with us today, I should mention that hes one of the bravest people I have ever met. The city wouldnt have survived if he didnt do his part. We are so honoured to know him, and everyone who we lost due to the battles that were thrown our way. The crowd stayed silent as a moment passed, and another. Finally, Kais gaze turned to Killian, his most trusted knight. He motioned him forward, holding the last sword in his hands a blade with a gleaming edge and a hilt wrapped in deep blue leather. This one was special, forged from a rare material gifted by the king himself Valon steel. "Killian, for your unwavering service and loyalty, for being the shield that guarded Veralt in its dire times, stayed loyal to me and the city during every hurdle and everything unspoken in between, I present you with this blade," Kai declared, his voice ringing with sincerity. "May it serve you well, as you have served us." Killian knelt, head bowed as he accepted the sword with both hands, his usually stoic face betraying a flicker of emotion. He rose to his feet, eyes meeting Kais with a quiet intensity. "Thank you, my lord. I will wield it in your service and for the safety of Verdis." Kai clasped Killians shoulder, a silent acknowledgement passing between them before Killian stepped back, joining the other Enforcers who now held their new weapons proudly. The crowds cheers surged again, filling the air with a sense of unity and celebration. Kai took a deep breath, feeling the energy of the moment. He stepped forward once more, holding up a hand to bring the cheering crowd to a hush. The Enforcers, standing tall and proud with their new blades, looked at him with a mixture of curiosity and hope, while the commoners gazed up with anticipation. Kai knew what he was about to announce was unusual but he had made up his mind. This would be his way of solidifying their loyalty and recognizing their dedication. He began, his voice carrying over the square, "Today, I wish to do more than just distribute weapons. I intend to grant a new honour, one that will elevate those who have stood by us through thick and thin." His gaze swept over the crowd and then back to the Enforcers, each of whom straightened under his attention. "I hereby bestow upon each of you the title of Knight, as a recognition of your bravery, your commitment, and the sacrifices you''ve made for this city." A murmur of shock rippled through the nobles section. Knighthood was not granted lightly, especially not en masse like this. For a Baron, having even one knight was enough. But for a Count, having a dozen wasn''t rare, but most of them would come from knight families or would have served in wars. Commoners weren''t just given it simply for being good guards. Obviously, Kai knew the Enforcers were far more special, but it would still be a decision that would be remembered, not just for its generosity, but for the precedent it set. Kai turned to the first Enforcer. "Gareth, you have faced the beast wave head-on and shown unwavering courage. Today, you kneel as a guard, but you rise as a knight." He drew a short ceremonial sword from his side and tapped it gently on Gareths shoulders. The Enforcer now Sir Gareth rose, his eyes shining with emotion, caught between a grin and the struggle to hold back tears. One by one, Kai called the names of each Enforcer, granting them knighthood with the same reverence. "Clement, for your quick thinking and steady hands during the darkest days..." "And to Feroy, for your unwavering vigilance, bravery and skills..." "Bord, for your wisdom and experience guiding the younger guards when they needed it most..." Bord bowed deeply as Kais sword touched his shoulders, the weight of the honour pressing into him just as much as the blade, his usual stern expression softening with gratitude. "Talon, for your unmatched speed and sharp instincts on the battlefield..." Talons face split into a wide grin as he knelt, and he practically leapt to his feet as he was dubbed a knight, his enthusiasm mirrored by the roar of the crowd. "Lyra, for your unwavering resolve and the strength that carried your comrades through..." Lyras chin lifted proudly as she received the title. She met Kais eyes with a fierce smile before standing tall among her new peers, her presence commanding respect. By the time he reached the last Enforcer, the atmosphere in the square was electrifying. Kai took a moment, his eyes meeting each of the newly minted knights before he spoke again, his voice resonating with a finality. "You have earned this. Stand proudly, for you are now the Knights of Veralt. Let no one question your dedication to our city." The applause and cheers that followed were deafening. Nobles exchanged glances, some approving, others wary of this unconventional move. But the commoners, those who had lived under the protection of these men and women, cheered the loudest. It was a moment that made Kai realise how much he had changed things. It wasn''t just about survival anymore; it was about giving people a reason to believe in the future. With the formalities completed, Kai gave a nod to Killian, signalling the next part of the ceremony. Killian stepped forward and raised his blade high, a symbol of unity and strength. "Knights of Veralt, with me!" he bellowed, his voice carrying through the square. The newly knighted Enforcers snapped into formation behind him, their new swords gleaming in the afternoon sun. The parade began with a precise march, Killian leading the knights as they made their way down the main street, followed closely by the city guards. The crowd parted like waves as the procession passed. Cheers and applause accompanied them as they moved forward. Kai let them walk in the front and climbed into a carriage that was arranged with an open roof. As he stood at its front, the driver urged the horses forward, and the carriage began to roll slowly through the streets behind the marching knights. From this vantage point, Kai could see the city as it had become. The air was cool, carrying the scent of autumn leaves and the distant smoke from street vendors fires. Kai took it all in, lifting a hand in greeting to the people who called his name, waving back with wide grins. He could feel their respect, their gratitude, and it settled within him with a warmth that reached deeper than any title could. As the procession moved through the city, the cheers never faded. *** Rubert moved through the dimly lit corridors of Lucians castle, his footsteps barely making a sound against the cold stone floors. His sharp eyes darted between the servants passing by, but today, he noticed a change. The usual bustling pace was absent, replaced by hurried, furtive movements. Maids clutched their cleaning clothes tightly, avoiding his gaze. Footmen whispered to each other, casting nervous glances toward the far end of the corridor, where the heavy oak doors loomed. There was a tension in the air, thick enough to choke on. The butler, Rubert, felt a knot form in his chest, but he kept moving, his face carefully neutral. He had served Lucian for years, long enough to know that some things were better left unseen. But he also knew his duty, and so, when the muffled sounds of agony reached his ears, he paused just before the door. He hesitated, the screams now distinct, filled with a raw desperation that made his stomach turn. His hand hovered over the brass handle, his body urging him to turn away, to leave the horrors behind the door to the darkness. But Rubert knew he had no choice. With a weary sigh, he steeled himself, gripping the handle with a gloved hand, and pushed the door open. The scene inside hit him like a physical blow. Blood stained the walls and floor, pooling around fragments of flesh and shattered bones. The stench of iron and charred flesh filled the air, making his stomach roil. His mouth went dry, and for a moment, Rubert thought he might be sick. He swallowed hard, forcing down the bile rising in his throat. In the centre of the carnage stood Lucian, his dark cloak stained with crimson splatters. He held a flaming sword, its edge still glowing a fierce, unnatural orange. In front of him lay a scorched, lifeless body, mangled beyond recognition. Deep cut marks crisscrossed the remains, and the skin had blackened from the intense heat. Smoke still rose faintly from the corpse, curling through the air in ghostly tendrils. Rubert swallowed again, his voice betraying only the slightest tremor as he announced, "My lord, I am here." Lucian turned slowly, the flames of his sword extinguishing with a hiss, leaving only a faint trail of smoke. He dabbed at his blood-smeared face with a handkerchief, the casual gesture at odds with the brutal scene. His eyes, cold and sharp, settled on the butler. "Send me another," Lucian said, his voice calm, as if he had merely finished a sparring match. "One that might last a few seconds longer than this one." Rubert hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "My lord, this was already the third... today. The staff many have submitted their resignations, unwilling to serve under these conditions." Lucian''s expression barely changed, a shadow of irritation flickering in his eyes. He folded the handkerchief neatly, tucking it back into his coat pocket. "Then pick one of them for me. If they wish to leave, I shall grant them their release... a chance to escape their life." He paused, then added with a hint of amusement in his voice, "Or, if youre reluctant to choose, Rubert, perhaps youd like to step forward yourself? Surely, you can still move half as well as these younger ones." Rubert froze, feeling the blood drain from his face. Words tangled in his throat as he stared at Lucian, but the lords cold smile held no hint of mercy. Finally, the butler let out a long, shuddering breath and lowered his gaze, forcing himself to remain composed. Instead of responding directly to the threat, he cleared his throat and spoke of what he had learned, hoping to distract Lucian. "A report has arrived, my lord. Lord Arzans ceremony... It took place today." At the mention of his brother, Lucians eyes narrowed, and a surge of mana whooshed through the room, making the air grow heavy with tension. A dark vein popped on his neck. The butler flinched, feeling the pressure like a weight on his chest, but pressed on when Lucians voice came, sharper now. "Continue." Rubert swallowed again, gathering the words. "He has been granted the city of Verdis and its surrounding territory. The title of Count was bestowed upon him... by the king himself." Lucians expression shifted, a smirk curling at the edge of his lips. "Interesting. My little brother has grown wings, it seems." "Is there more?" Lucian asked, his tone still laced with a dangerous edge. "Yes, my lord. A letter from Queen Regina arrived as well," Rubert replied, producing the sealed missive from inside his coat. He held it out, careful to keep his hands steady as he offered it to Lucian. Lucian took the letter, his expression turning from curiosity to something more intense. He broke the seal with a flick of his thumb and unfolded the paper. As his eyes scanned the contents, a slow smile spread across his face, one that chilled Rubert to his core. After a moment, Lucian let out a soft, almost contented laugh, a sound that seemed wrong amidst the blood and death. "After all these months, it seems fortune finally favours me." He looked back at the butler, the smile still lingering. "Yes... something good is coming my way." Rubert kept his head bowed, his mind racing. He didnt know what the letter contained, but he knew better than to ask. He simply hoped that whatever plans Lucian was they would not lead to another scene like the one before him. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 130. Factions The parade had been a grand spectacle, one that swept through the city. Kai had ridden through the streets of Veralt, the crowds cheers echoing in his ears for hours as he waved from his carriage. The air buzzed with energy, commoners leaning from windows and lining the cobblestone streets to catch a glimpse of him. Flowers rained down from balconies, the scent of freshly bloomed petals mixing with the brisk air. The joy was infectious, even reaching Kais normally neutral expression, coaxing a rare smile to his lips. Yet, even as he basked in the glow of the parade, he knew that his day was far from over. The celebration had already transitioned from the streets to the grand halls of the banquet, which had been in full swing even before he arrived. There would be no rest for him tonight, no quiet moment to reflect on the magnitude of his new title. He was aware that the moment he stepped into the banquet hall, he would become the centre of attention each conversation, each subtle manoeuvre, orbiting around him. But there was no avoiding it. He had laid his plans, anticipated the power plays, and was as ready as he could be. With each step echoing against the marble floor, Kai moved through the castles shadowed corridors, his boots clacking against the polished stone. He stopped just outside the banquet hall, where a servant in crisp livery stood ready to announce his entrance. The low hum of conversation inside fell to a hush as the servant''s voice rang out, "Presenting Lord Arzan Kellius, Count of Veralt!" As the doors swung open, Kai walked into the hall, his presence commanding immediate attention. Conversations stilled, and every gaze turned toward him some filled with curiosity, others with envy, and a few with outright malice. He could sense the weight of each emotion pressing down on him, like a wave of invisible force. Nobles in glittering attire shifted subtly, forming little clusters that marked their alliances. The factions aligned with the second and third princes watched him with predatory interest, their expressions hungry, eager. They sensed opportunity, and Kai knew that his meteoric rise had caught their attention. Only the faction of the first prince wasn''t present in huge numbers. Everyone in Lancephil high society knew that the first prince had let his chance slip, fumbling the opportunity to secure Kai''s allegiance. Now, his rivals were circling like vultures, eager to pick up where their brother had failed. Kai kept his expression neutral, not letting their probing gazes unsettle him. Instead, he offered a courteous bow to the gathered nobles and raised his voice. "Ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured by your presence tonight. The title is a great responsibility, one I will carry with the utmost diligence. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve Veralt and its surrounding territories as its Count. I hope you will all enjoy yourselves this evening as we celebrate together." A round of cheers followed his words, glasses raised high and spirit flowed freely. The hum of conversation resumed, the nobles murmurs taking on a more enthusiastic tone as the festivities continued. But Kai didnt allow himself a moment of relief. He had known that the real game would begin as soon as the formalities ended. Just as expected, a cluster of nobles broke away from their circles and began making their way toward him. Their ranks included some of the most prominent names in the kingdom barons, viscounts, marquis and even sons of dukes. Each of them wore expressions of polite interest, though their eyes gleamed with the calculation of predators evaluating fresh prey. Kai straightened, meeting their approach with a composed smile. His mind was already turning over the layers of meaning hidden behind each expression and word that was about to come his way. At the front was Marcus Raktor, a burly man whose broad shoulders filled out his finely tailored doublet, adorned with the crest of his ducal house a pair of crossed hammers. He extended a hand to Kai, his grip firm as they shook hands. "Count Arzan, it''s a pleasure," Marcus said, his voice a rumbling baritone. "Congratulations on your new title. Ive heard impressive tales of your efforts during the siege. The way you handled the beast wave... Well, its no small feat. I must say, Im an admirer of your abilities." Kai gave a polite nod, offering a brief but appreciative smile. "Thank you, Lord Marcus. It was a challenging time for Veralt, but I had a duty to protect the city." As he spoke, he noted the approving glances from some of the other nobles. Each one seemed eager to make their own impression, and he braced himself for the wave of compliments that followed. "Youve earned the respect of many with how you held the line," added Lady Seraphine, a slender woman with sharp eyes that missed little. "Im sure the king himself must have been very pleased with your achievements." "Indeed, indeed," another Lord chimed in. Not many could have done what you did, Count Arzan. Veralt is fortunate to have you as its protector." Kai maintained his cordial exterior, bowing his head slightly. "I appreciate your kind words, but the truth is, I had help from brave soldiers, capable men, and even the commoners who put their lives on the line. They deserve as much credit as I do for our victory." A few "yes," "truly," and "indeed" rippled through the small gathering, but before the conversation could steer back to safer, more controlled topics, a voice cut through with a sharper edge. "Ive heard theres more to the story," spoke a young man, stepping forward with a confident stride. His rich attire bore the colours of House Ashford, and he looked at Kai challengingly. His name was Brinth Ashford. "Rumours say you crafted a weapon that could burn through the beasts like dry kindling. Its become quite the talk across the kingdom." A few of the nobles shot him disapproving glares, clearly unhappy with his bluntness. But Kai could see the interest in their eyes the way their ears perked up, their curiosity barely restrained. They wanted to know more, even if they wouldnt have been so direct in asking. Kai met the Brinths gaze evenly, allowing a hint of a smile to curl his lips. He wouldnt let himself be cornered, but he also knew the value of controlling the narrative. "Ah, yes. You must be referring to the mana cannons," he replied calmly. "They were indeed a great help in the defence. Crafted here in the castle itself, with the support of a talented blacksmith and an alchemist. Without them, the outcome of the siege might have been very different." The revelation stirred the group, a few of the nobles exchanging glances with raised brows, clearly intrigued by the idea of such a powerful weapon. They leaned in closer, their curiosity now fully piqued. "A mana cannon, you say?" Marcus rumbled, his interest plain as he stroked his chin. "Ive heard of enchanted weapons, but something capable of turning the tide of a battle... thats no small claim. What exactly are these cannons capable of, if I might ask?" Kais smile remained steady, but he kept his tone measured. "Their capabilities are... specialised. They focus mana into a concentrated beam, capable of cutting through even the toughest of hides. But, as I said, they wouldnt have been nearly as effective without the courage of those who fought alongside them. Its a tool, not a miracle." "Such a weapon could change the whole warfare," muttered Lord Pude from behind, he was an ally to the second prince. Kai noted the gleam in his eye an opportunist, like many in the room. They were already envisioning what the cannons might mean for conflicts between the nobles themselves or for expanding their territories. "Indeed," Kai replied smoothly, his tone growing slightly cooler. With that, the nobles exchanged different opinions on mana cannons. It was almost as if for a fraction that they forgot Kai was right in front of them. Thankfully, it wasnt long before Lady Seraphine stepped forward. "So, the rumours were true after all. These mana cannons... are they truly as effective as the Heat stones that took over the kingdom last year?" He gave her a nod, keeping his face composed. "The cannons and Heat stones serve different purposes, but yes, they work well in their own right. The cannons focus mana into a destructive beam, while heat stones provide warmth and small bursts of energy. They each have their place when necessary, because, of course, you cant expect a Heat stone to hold off beasts." That earned a few laughs as he expected. "If its not too much of a secret, Count Arzan, may I ask how you came to develop such a thing? Its not every day one hears of a new weapon so... potent." Kai looked at Marcus who directed that question. He knew this question would come, therefore he kept his expression as sincere as possible. "No secrets here, Lord Marcus," he said smoothly. "The knowledge comes from my mother. She left behind many writings, ideas she was unable to complete before her passing. This was one of them an incomplete design. I merely pieced together what she couldnt finish and managed to make it work just in time for the siege." The nobles who were themselves Mages immediately reacted to Kais response. A few Ah passed. They seemed to buy into the story, nodding in understanding as if a mystery had just been solved. Kai, for his part, felt a hint of relief. The explanation was simple, believableand, more importantly, kept the true source of his knowledge hidden. But he wasnt out of the woods yet. Brinth Ashford stepped forward again, his smile thin but his tone carrying a casual edge that Kai knew to be anything but. "So, a relic of your mothers brilliance? Interesting. But tell me, Count Arzan, would it be possible to see a demonstration? Ive heard much about these mana cannons, but Ive yet to witness such a marvel myself." He paused, glancing around with a smirk. "Im sure Magus Veridia must be sweating at the thought of weapons that could rival a Mages power." A few chuckles rippled through the gathered nobles at the jab, but Kai met the young Ashfords gaze evenly. "Mages possess a versatility that cannons cannot match," he replied, keeping his voice level. "The cannons have their strengths, but they will never replace the adaptability and finesse of a true Mage. But tell me, why would you want a demonstration?" Brinth just shrugged. "All the same, Count, I think it would be beneficial to see them in action. And, of course, Im not just looking for a show. Id be willing to pay handsomely for the chance to acquire such a powerful tool. You know that the Ashford coffers run deep." The air in the banquet hall grew tense as Brinth made his bid, and it didnt take long for other nobles to interject. One of them, a stout lord from the far western side, chuckled and gave a dismissive wave. Now, now, Lord Brinth, dont get ahead of yourself, he said, smirking. If these mana cannons are indeed for sale, you wont be the only one interested in acquiring a few. Indeed, Count Arzan. The Ashfords may have their ambitions, but our interests are no less valid. I, for one, would love to add such a weapon to our defences. It would be a shame if they were snatched up by a single buyer. The banter quickly escalated, with nobles from the factions of the second and third princes taking verbal jabs at each other. Their words dripped with thinly veiled competition, each side eager to gain an edge, all while maintaining the polite pretence of a banquet. It was exactly what Kai had expected. He watched the exchange, maintaining a neutral expression as the nobles argued. It was like watching hounds circling a piece of meat, each eager to claim the first bite. He let the tension build, allowing their rivalry to play out before he stepped forward, raising a hand to silence the brewing argument. Sarch* The n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Everyone, please," Kai interjected smoothly, offering a smile that was both reassuring and calculating. I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I think theres been a misunderstanding. You see, we never intended the mana cannons to be kept hidden away. On the contrary, we have been producing them with the intention to sell. He made a sweeping gesture, his voice carrying the kind of conviction that would fool most ears. After all, beasts arent the only threat to our kingdom. Bandits, rogue Mages, and who knows what else might lurk beyond our borders. For the prosperity of our lands, it only makes sense to share such a powerful tool. It was a convenient lie, and he knew it. But that didnt matter. Kai understood that in the world of nobility, truth often took a backseat to the narratives that could be spun and wielded like weapons. His words played into their desires, their ambitions and more importantly, it kept them guessing. I believe we would have a good number of mana cannons to sell, Kai made the statement. The nobles exchanged glances, some sceptical, others thoughtful. Yet, there was a general feeling of agreement, and he could see the glimmers of hope in their eyes. A few nodded approvingly, while others kept their expressions more guarded. But beneath the surface, he knew there was a subtle disappointment one he had planted deliberately. By stating his intention to sell the cannons to all interested parties, he was making it clear that he hadnt chosen to align with any particular faction. It was a move that left them off balance. No single princes allies would be favoured, and for now, it meant they would have to contend with each other for access to his inventions. He could almost hear the wheels turning in their minds, recalculating their strategies. But Kai knew better than to think this was the end. The night was still young, and while the nobles put on their masks of congeniality, he could sense the undercurrent of their ambitions. They would find more subtle ways to draw him into their orbits, offering promises of protection or wealth, trying to lure him into the folds of one prince or another. But Kai was prepared. And as he raised his glass, offering another round of pleasantries to the gathered nobles, he knew that the real banquet had only just begun. The next two hours blurred together for Kai as he moved through the banquet hall, exchanging pleasantries, fielding questions, and moving through the web of noble relations. It felt more taxing than a day of intense training. Every noble sought a word, a connection, and a chance to probe his intentionsabout the mana cannons, his plans for Veralt, or even the political landscape of the kingdom. He offered them smiles, well-crafted responses, and promises of more detailed, private meetings the following day. By the time he managed to extract himself, his jaw ached from forced politeness, and his patience had worn thin. Yet, he had succeeded in keeping the nobility at bay, at least for now. As he stepped back from the chattering crowd, Kai realised that he hadnt eaten since breakfast. He picked up a few dishes from the banquet spread, sampling a rich stew and some roasted game, letting the savoury flavours linger. With a full plate in hand, he finally sought a quieter corner of the hall, far from the clamour of aristocratic chatter. From his vantage point, Kai observed the scene. His subordinates were scattered across the room, each one handling the banquet in their own way. Some, like Francis, were happily indulging in the feast, their plates piled high with food. Others, more reserved, had found comfortable spots to sit and enjoy the rare luxuries without engaging in the noble games. The castle guards hed grown to trust stood by the walls, ever watchful. A few of the Enforcers were mingling with the lesser nobles, forming connections that might prove useful later. As Kai chewed thoughtfully on a slice of roast, he noticed a familiar face approaching from across the hall. Gorak, the mercenary leader, made his way over, his rough features set in their usual stern expression. When he reached Kai, he offered a respectful nod. Lord Arzan, me and my crew will be leaving soon. Kai raised an eyebrow, swallowing the last bite of his food before replying. Ah, Gorak. I was too busy earlier to greet you properly. He cast a glance over the mercenarys shoulder, where the rest of the crew waited, including the red-haired mercenary, Kellen. Why leave so early? Goraks eyes followed Kais gaze, a wry smile crossing his face. The foods good, but apart from your people, were not exactly welcome here. Nobles and their servants dont have much use for mercenaries like us, except when they need us to fight. Kai leaned back against the wall, a slight frown creasing his forehead. Yeah, I understand. Being a mercenary isnt easy. Gorak shrugged, his grin turning a bit more genuine. Its not, but its a life with its own rewards exciting work, and its rare to find a place where we can stay for this long, even if our lives were on the line more often than not. Better to leave on our terms while things are calm. Kai nodded, considering Goraks perspective. Youre planning to head out for more contracts now that the beast wave is over? The mercenary leader nodded. Thats right. No sense staying around if theres no more work here. But if youve got something in mind for us, Lord Arzan, wed listen. Kai smiled slightly, setting his empty plate aside. Actually, I do. Ive been thinking about something, and I believe youre the right person to make it happen. I want you to create an organisation. An organisation? Yes. One called a guild. Or to use the full name an Adventurers Guild. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 131. Guild During the Second Golden Era of Magic, a time when the arcane arts flourished and powerful spells reshaped kingdoms, the Adventurers Guild emerged, a counterbalance to the rising dominance of Mages and Enforcers. Formed by a group of hardened mercenaries, it wasnt just a loose alliance of fighters it became a structured organisation that offered a new path to those who didnt wield magic. The mercenaries, having grown tired of being dismissed and treated as little more than disposable blades-for-hire, realised that together, they could stand against the hegemony of those who bent mana to their will. With that realisation, they built the Adventurers Guild, creating a structure with ranks, contracts, and codes of conduct. They became the ones willing to take on the jobs that others considered too mundane or too risky. Clearing out a nest of Grade 1 wyrmlings terrorising a nearby village, gathering a rare herb from a venomous swamp, escorting an injured woman through dangerous terrain to reach the skilled hands of a surgeon in another city they handled it all. It was this versatility, this willingness to serve the common folk, that won them respect and spread their influence. Soon, guild branches sprung up across nations, not only providing protection against magical beasts but also creating a network that made life a little safer, a little more predictable for those living in the shadows of power. As the guild thrived, it became more than just a counter to the Mages it became a pillar for local communities. Kai knew all this well. He understood the potential, especially with the dangers lurking near the edge of the Vasper Forest and the ongoing development projects in his territory. He saw an opportunity, a chance to bring that same structure to Veralt, albeit centuries before the guild would have emerged in history. The timing couldnt be better; Veralt needed more than just guards and Enforcers. It needed flexibility fighters, scouts, herbalists, people willing to venture where others wouldnt. This place could use a guild, Gorak, Kai began, thinking about the city and all the possibilities. The mercenaries here theyre too scattered, too free. Because of that, theyre not taken seriously. There are large mercenary groups out there, sure, but most are just small bands of three or four. They come, they go, theyre ghosts to the people. But with structurerankings, missions, a place to call home we could change that. Gorak leaned back, crossing his arms, his brows furrowed with thought. I get what youre saying, but youre missing a point, Lord Arzan. Mercs like their freedom. Thats why they become mercs in the first place, to avoid being tied down. How do you plan to get them to follow rules and take orders? Kai smirked, his eyes gleaming with the fire of a visionary. You dont take away their freedom. You give them a choicea choice to accept or decline contracts, to work alone or team up with others they trust. But you add incentivesbetter pay, safer places to rest, medical treatment for injuries. They can be free and theyll have a reason to be loyal. A place where they can find support when they need it. Not everyone wants to be a lone wolf forever. Gorak scratched his chin, mulling over the words, but there was a glimmer of curiosity in his eyes now. Its not a bad plan But itll take time to build trust. Mercs dont bend easily. Kais smirk grew into a grin, sharp like a blade. Time is something we have, Gorak. And if it works Veralt wont just survive the changes coming its way itll thrive. And about their freedom there really wont be any need for them to lose their freedom. The idea is simple. Theyd just be registered at the guild, a place where they can still pick their own battles. If someone needs something donea beast cleared, a herb collected, an escort through dangerous terrainthey can post the request at the guild. Well offer rewards right there on the board, and the guild can notify the mercs about it. Any mercenary who joins would become an adventurer a bit more prestigious than just a sword for hire, dont you think? He paused, letting his words settle like dust after a storm. Its more of a registration network than an enforcement body. They wont have to scavenge for jobs themselves, wandering town to town hoping for a contract. It saves them time. And if it works out, we can open more branches as the demand grows, spreading throughout the region. But Veralt would be the main headquarters, the heart of it all. Gorak squinted his eyes in thought as he made lazy patterns in his chin, the rough stubble making a rasping sound as he mulled over Kais words. He seemed intrigued but sceptical, his weathered face creasing with thought. It sounds ambitious. But Im not sure, Lord Arzan. Theres a lot to consider. You know how mercs are they dont like being tied down to anything, even if its as loose as what youre proposing. Kai chuckled softly, a confident glint in his eyes. You dont have to worry about the logistics, Gorak. Ill provide a building for the guild. A good one, centrally located. And I wont charge a single coin for rent or taxes not for the first few years, anyway. Thatll give the guild time to grow without financial pressure, and itll give the mercenaries time to see the benefits. Goraks expression brightened. His arms uncrossed, and for the first time in their conversation, he looked intrigued rather than wary. No rent, no taxes, and a ready-made base for the guild Thats a tempting offer, Ill admit. But Id need to hear more details about how you plan to make this work. Its not just about setting up a place; its about managing people, and thats a whole other beast. Kai nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. Well discuss the finer points this week. Stay in the city for now, and well hammer out the details. Gorak nodded, his eyes narrowing with consideration. Alright then. Ill let my party members know whats going on and keep them in the loop. Lets see if we can make this work. He gave a final nod and turned, his heavy boots echoing against the stone floor as he left the study. Kai watched him go, his shoulders loosening as the door shut behind the mercenary. He let out a slow breath, muttering to himself, At least one thing is off the list. He leaned back, glancing at the people who seemed to be enjoying the celebration. For weeks, hed wanted to discuss the idea of the guild, knowing it would be a boon for the local economy, a way to bring stability to his growing territory. But between handling the aftermath of the beast wave and the endless administrative work that came with being the new lord, hed struggled to get a moment alone with Gorak. Now, at least, the seed was planted. But as the satisfaction of this small victory faded, his thoughts shifted to the long list of other tasks demanding his attention. The Archine Tower Mages were a problem that wouldnt go away quietly and they were still hanging around the city. He still had to visit Verdis, to ensure the people there understood who their new lord was not just in name, but in presence. It was a delicate balance of asserting his authority without appearing heavy-handed, of building trust while keeping potential rivals in check. Once these two jobs were over, he would need to prepare to deal with his brother Lucian. *** The forest around the road rustled, shadows weaving through the thick trees as a chilling wind blew across the path. Princess Amara, dressed in plain clothes that could almost pass for a merchants daughter, leaned against the window of the rented carriage. Her fingers absently traced the glass as she watched the lone wolf circling the carriage, eyes gleaming with hunger. Beside her, her maid, Anya sat stiffly, clutching the edge of her seat as if that alone could hold back danger. Her knuckles whitened with tension as she glanced at the scene outside the carriage driver, a rough man with an ordinary sword, fending off the beast with grunts and swipes. Sit back, Your Highness, Anya urged, her voice tight with worry. Let the driver handle it. Amara turned her gaze toward the maid, raising a brow at her anxious expression. Why are you so tense? Its just a wolf. Its a beast, Your Highness, Anya replied, her voice rising as her grip tightened on the seats edge. And were far from the city walls. If anything happens Amaras lips curved into a small, confident smile as she brushed a lock of long hair behind her ear. Theres no need to worry. Im a Mage now, remember? And a proper one. Anyas eyes widened with alarm. But Your Highness, your injury youre not fully healed yet! You shouldnt Before she could finish, Amara pushed open the carriage door and leaped out, landing on the dirt road with a soft thud. The maids panicked scream echoed behind her. Your Highness, wait! Ignoring the protest, Amara focused on the wolf that had now turned its attention to her, its fangs bared and hackles raised. She glanced briefly at the carriage driver, who had paused mid-swing to stare at her, confusion and alarm painted across his rugged face. Miss, you shouldnt come close, he called out, brandishing his sword to keep the wolf at bay. Ill handle this Amara barely acknowledged his words, raising a hand as mana surged through her veins. The familiar energy coiled around her fingers, a sharp, tingling sensation that sent a shiver down her spine. She felt a stab of pain in her chesta reminder that her wounds hadnt fully healed but she pushed it aside, focusing on the spells structure. A swirl of water condensed around her hand, forming into a spear-like shape. She thrust her arm forward, and the water spear shot through the air, piercing the wolfs side. The beast yelped, its eyes going wide with shock before it collapsed to the ground, the water soaking into the dirt beneath it. Amara lowered her hand, breathing heavily as the lingering ache in her chest made her wince. But the wolf lay still, lifeless on the forest floor. She glanced at the carriage driver, who stared at her with wide eyes, his sword hanging limply in his hand. Youre a Mage? he asked, astonishment clear in his voice. Yes, Amara replied, pressing a hand briefly to her chest to steady the rapid thudding of her heart. Her breaths came a little faster than shed have liked, but she forced a calm expression as she looked back to the driver. But thats not important right now. We should get out of here quickly. Take the main road. I don''t want to take shortcuts like this if there''s danger. The driver hesitated, glancing back at the wolfs body, then at Amara, who stood with an air of authority despite her plain clothes. Amara turned back to the carriage, ignoring the frantic questions from her maid. As she settled into her seat, a hint of frustration crossed her face. She could already feel the fatigue seeping into her limbs from using magic so soon after her injury, but there was no time to dwell on that. With a sigh, she glanced out the window at the forest. I believe Ive already missed what I wanted to go to Veralt for, she muttered under her breath, her expression hardening. The carriage driver, with newfound respect in his eyes after witnessing the Mages power, gave her a quick nod after getting inside. Ill take the main road as you asked, he said, his tone far more deferential than before. The first thing Amara noticed was Anya, who sat across from her, worry etched into every line of her face. She reached out, hesitating before speaking softly. Miss, its deadly, these beasts I know you can use spells now, but you should be careful. Your pain its getting worse. Amara dismissed the concern with a wave of her hand, though her expression remained strained. It doesnt matter. Were close enough to Veralt, and the one who will heal me is there. Anyas lips pressed into a thin line, and she looked down before glancing back up at Amara, her voice barely more than a whisper. What if what if he isnt able to, Miss? What then? Amara shook her head, her gaze resolute as she looked out the carriage window, the trees flashing past. I believe he will. I firmly believe so, Anya. In the past year, that man has achieved feats that havent been replicated in decades, things even the Archine Tower Mages marvel at. And I still cant figure him out. If anyone can heal me, its him. Her fingers tightened slightly around the fabric of her cloak, as if clinging to that conviction. And either way, were about to find out. But Im more disappointed that the ceremony will be over by the time I arrive. Anya looked at her with a puzzled frown. You never liked banquets before, Miss. Amara let out a soft, bitter laugh, a touch of wistfulness in her voice. No one likes things theyre forced to attend, Anya. But for the first time in my life, I want to do things my way. And this this was one of those things. I wanted to be there, on my terms. She paused, a slight edge of disappointment in her voice. But even if I arrive late, it wont matter so long as hes there to receive me. Anyas concern clearly lingered, but she nodded, her grip on her seat relaxing slightly. Outside, the road grew smoother as they moved deeper into Sylvan Enclave. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Sarch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. 132. Firepower sales The banquet turned out to be a rousing success for Veralt and Kai, a night to be remembered by all except the nobles who found themselves empty-handed. The city thrived with the influx of aristocrats and their entourages, enjoying the spike in business from inns, markets, and artisans. Commoners cheered in the streets, their voices echoing his name as his new title was conferred without a hitch. The strength he projected that night, backed by the fervent support of the people, solidified his new role. But the nobles? They failed to secure his loyalty. For all their smooth words and thinly veiled promises, not one of them managed to get Kai into their faction. Yet, the thought of abandoning their goals never crossed their minds. The very next morning, Kai faced requests of an endless stream of meetings, each noble wielding the same excuse discussing the citys new mana cannons. It was a transparent ploy to draw closer to him, but Kai had anticipated their strategy. Rather than endure tiresome one-on-one discussions, he flipped the game on them. He arranged a public demonstration of the mana cannons atop Veralts city walls. Balen had already ensured one prototype was ready, even though the regressed versions were still undergoing final adjustments. As the evening started to stroll in, Kai led the nobles to the walls. He gestured to the large boulders stationed outside the city gates, a suitable target for the demonstration. With a sharp nod, he signalled Balen, who adjusted the cannons mechanisms with the precision of a master craftsman. A moment later, a bright beam lanced from the cannon, striking a boulder dead centre. The rock shattered into a shower of debris, leaving the nobles slack-jawed, their expressions more dramatic than Kai had expected. Rumours of the cannons had spread through the noble circles, but seeing the devastating weapon in action was a different experience altogether. Murmurs rose among the crowd, quickly escalating into an excited clamour. Requests flooded in like a wave one noble wanted a dozen for his estates defence, another began shouting bids on the spot. They were ready to empty their coffers. That eagerness stumbled only when Kai named his price seven thousand gold coins for a single mana cannon. The bidding war paused, and the nobles looked at him as though he had just asked them to hand over their entire estates. In a second, they all started whispering scepticism evident in their faces, their earlier enthusiasm dampened by the hefty price tag. But the awe lingered in their eyes; they knew the weapons value even if they hesitated. Regardless, Kai found himself surrounded by a small knot of nobles, led by Marcus, and Lady Seraphine. They flanked him like wolves, each dressed in the colours of their respective allies the third and second princes. Their eyes gleamed with the promise of deals and alliances, as they subtly pressed Kai for favourable terms. Nearby, a second group had gathered, led by Brinth Ashford who was more interested in the mana beams rather than negotiations. He and his peers clustered around the cannon, their eyes wide as they watched Balen and his blacksmiths adjust the workings of the prototype. To them, it was witnessing something they hadnt seen before. The Dukes son, Brinth had evidently placed his faith in Lady Seraphine, handing her the authority to negotiate for the rights to the cannons. She seemed to have taken that responsibility seriously. Well, Kai knew what they wanted. He also knew how to make them pay dearly for it. Sar?h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Marcus stepped forward. "Lord Arzan, that''s too much. I could invest in a Mage for far less than seven thousand gold coins." His voice held a hint of frustration, as if trying to reason with a stubborn child. Lady Seraphine, sidled closer, her smile as sweet as honey. "Indeed, Lord Arzan, the price is rather steep. Why not reconsider? We are more than willing to agree if you could just reconsider the price. And you know Lord Arzan, the cannons require Atheum. Theyre not easy to find." Kai looked at Marcus. "A second circle Mage might be cheaper, but you are getting a better deal here, he replied, his tone firm but patient. "This is a machine one that doesnt need food, rest, or other resources besides Atheum. Mages are people. They need constant training, upkeep, and resources. And, most importantly, they have wills of their own." He gestured to the mana cannon, the sleek barrel glinting in the sunlight. "These machines would be yours to control. They''re ready when you need them, without the worry of loyalty or upkeep. And it''s just seven thousand gold coins for one." His eyes shifted to Seraphine, catching her gaze. "And you, Lady Seraphine, have a mine. Atheum wont be an issue for you." Seraphine''s smile twitched at the corners, a hint of frustration slipping through her charm. She stepped closer, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper, leaning in just enough to invade Kais space. "Even so, why not lower the price, Lord Arzan? Make it more... enticing offer." Kais expression didnt waver. "These mana cannons are state-of-the-art equipment. That''s a term for being the most advanced. No other kingdom possesses anything like them. Whoever buys these first will hold a unique advantage. And believe me, Archine Tower will try to get their hands on them once they realise these mana cannons might put a dent on their superiority. It might be wise to secure your share before they do." He let that thought hang in the air, watching the gears turn behind their eyes. Marcuss jaw tightened as he glanced back at the cannons, the sound of another beam ripping through a boulder echoing behind them. The rock exploded in a burst of shattered stone, fragments flying through the air. The display left no room for doubt about the cannons power. Even if they were regressed versions, being able to have offensive strength equivalent to second circle spells was no small thing. Marcus finally broke the silence, his tone reluctant but resolute. "Fine. Ill take five." Lady Seraphines eyes flashed as she shot him a competitive glance. "Then Ill take six," she countered, her voice smooth but edged with challenge. Before their silent standoff could escalate, Kai raised a hand, stepping between them. A small, almost apologetic smile curled his lips. "Im sorry, but you both cant take more than three each. We have to ensure a fair distribution for everyone interested at least, for now." Both nobles stiffened, their glares snapping away from each other to rest on Kai. Yet behind their irritation was a glimmer of understanding. He had the upper hand, and they all knew it. Marcus frowned, his brows drawing together as he glanced at Seraphine before addressing Kai. And why is that, Lord Arzan? Why limit us to just three? Kais smile didnt falter as he folded his arms, his voice steady as he explained, First, its difficult to produce them in large quantities. These cannons arent like regular weapons. The parts are complex, and even with my blacksmith Balens skill, manufacturing more in a short time simply isnt possible. Secondly, Ive decided that every noble house can only own three at most. This is to maintain balance no single house should have too much firepower over another. Both nobles bristled at his words. Seraphines polished demeanour slipped as she pressed, But surely exceptions can be made, Lord Arzan. A few extra would hardly tip the scales. Marcus leaned in, his voice carrying a hard edge. You speak of balance, but do you truly wish to remain neutral, Lord Arzan? His eyes bored into Kai, testing for any sign of weakness. Seraphine, caught off guard by Marcuss bluntness, hesitated for a moment before stepping in. Indeed, if you join our faction, I can personally ensure the prince rewards you handsomely. Positions, resources anything you need. Kai shook his head firmly, meeting their gazes with unwavering resolve. He clutched his hands in front of him. Im sorry, but Ive made my decision. I intend to stay neutral, and that wont change. No amount of rewards or promises will sway me. For a moment, the air was thick with tension as both nobles measured Kais determination. Seeing no hint of deception in his eyes, Seraphine tilted her head, her voice a touch more resigned. Is there truly nothing that could change your mind? There isnt, Kai replied, his voice calm but resolute. But I give you my word if Im not joining one prince, I wont join any other. I only wish to serve as a balancing factor between the factions. Its better for Veralt, and better for me. Marcus and Seraphine exchanged a long, silent look before finally nodding in reluctant agreement. Marcus was the first to speak, though his tone was tinged with lingering doubt. Very well. Well accept your neutrality, but ensure the cannons are delivered to us as soon as possible. Theyll be ready within two months, Kai assured them. You can rest easy. Both nobles nodded, though a glimmer of scepticism lingered in their eyes. As they turned away, Kai watched them go, followed by Brinth and his people keeping their expression carefully neutral. Yet, he knew their thoughts were already turning to other possibilities like trying to reverse-engineer the mana cannons for their own use. They likely saw this as a temporary concession, confident they could extract more value later. Unfortunately for them, they were in for a harsh surprise. *** After the exhausting negotiations with the nobles, Kais thoughts turned to his next priority: Verdis. He needed to solidify his claim over the city and ensure that it didnt become a breeding ground for dissent. Francis had already warned him about rumblings of unrest among the local powers factions unhappy with his appointment as their new lord. Yet, time hadnt allowed him to dive into the full details, leaving the situation as a brewing storm in the back of his mind. But there was another matter that needed addressing first, one that had lingered like a shadow behind his recent successes: the Archine Tower Mages. The remnants of the Archine Tower had stayed in the city after the beast wave, most of them now half-committed to him, impressed by his displays of power and the new-age spell formulas he had introduced. Yet, among these potential allies lurked a spy someone who still reported back to Archine, waiting for the right moment to strike. Kai had only managed to identify one so farRoran Brightholm but there was every chance that others existed, hidden in the ranks. Today, he planned to put an end to that uncertainty. He called for a meeting, instructing Roran to join a scouting mission in the nearby forest with his scouts. With the known spy safely away, the rest of the Archine Tower Mages gathered in the meeting room. The air inside was thick with tension as they took their seats, their expressions ranging from nervous to hopeful. Among them were familiar faces Klan, Jacks and Cansor, who had survived the beast wave and now bore scars of both body and mind. They sat in uneasy silence, waiting for Kai to speak, stealing glances at one another as if searching for answers in each other''s faces. The wooden table in the center of the room creaked as some shifted their weight. Kais gaze swept across them, assessing their apprehension, before he finally spoke, his voice steady and commanding. "I''ve heard that many of you wish to remain here," he began, letting his words settle over the room like a heavy fog. Several Mages nodded quickly, a few even speaking up. We have seen your powers, Lord Arzan, one of the Mages, Lira said, her voice wavering but earnest. She was a short, stout woman with green hair. And the new spell formulas... the efficiency they bring. We want to apprentice under you, or at the very least, stay here and learn as juniors. Others murmured their agreement, some with excitement, others with cautious optimism. Kai nodded slowly, absorbing their words. That aligns with my plans, he said, allowing a small, measured smile to slip through. I intend to establish a new Mage Tower here in Veralt. A ripple of surprise ran through the gathered Mages, and low murmurs filled the room as they exchanged glances. He could see the curiosity and ambition lighting up in their eyes, and he let them speculate for a moment before continuing. It will be called the Sorcerers Tower, he announced, and its focus will be on researching dead mana, creating combat Mages, andeventuallysurpassing the Archine Tower itself. I obviously will act as its Tower Master alongside ruling the territory. Klan raised a hand and spoke up, his tone as wary as his expression. But wont that directly challenge the Archine Tower? Theyve crushed similar attempts before. They wont stand by while you build a rival power here. Kai leaned forward, resting his hands on the table, his eyes locking onto Klans. The Archine Tower already doesnt like me, Klan. You all know that. They see me as a threat ever since I killed Actra in self defence. He let his words hang in the air for a moment, then continued, his tone sharper. But this isnt new. Nobles are permitted to have their own Mage towers or academies. Theres even a small one in Duke Blackwoods territory, though its never been allowed to rise beyond a certain point. The Archine Tower always ensured it remained under their thumb, keeping its ambitions in check. Kais gaze swept across the room, taking in the expressions of the Magessome tense, others contemplative. But I dont plan to follow that pattern. The Sorcerers Tower will not be just another subordinate institution. It will be independent, free to research, train, and innovate without interference from Archines Mages. The room fell silent as his conviction settled over them. He could see the wheels turning in their minds, their doubts and hopes warring with each other. They were not blind to the risks, but they also knew that Kai had already defied expectations more than once. Klan nodded slowly, and Liras eyes shone with a spark of new possibilities. Kai watched the sparks of excitement ignite in their eyes, then raised a hand to bring the murmurs to a stop. "The Sorcerer''s Tower will be well-funded," he assured them, his voice calm yet commanding, "and we will use those resources to start your battle training immediately. If you join me, I can guarantee that every Mage here will reach the third circle within the next few years." His words landed like a thunderclap. The room erupted with shocked exclamations and murmured excitement, the Mages turning to one another with wide eyes and hopeful smiles. Reaching the third circle was no small promise especially for those who had stagnated under the rigid structure of the Archine Tower. "However, there is one condition before we proceed." The room fell silent, the Mages leaning forward with anticipation. "What condition?" Cansor asked, speaking for everyone. Kai locked eyes with him, his tone unyielding. "A mana oath. Each of you will swear an oath of loyalty to me personally. It will ensure that none of you are working for anyone else. If you attempt to deceive me or break the oath... it will kill you." The declaration hit the room like a splash of cold water. The hopeful murmurs died instantly, replaced with a tense silence. Faces that had been glowing with optimism moments ago turned wary, the Mages weighing the risks. Kai crossed his arms, his expression unyielding as he watched their reactions. He didnt say more, letting the weight of the oath settle into their minds. He understood the gamble they faced betray their previous loyalties and risk their lives for the promise of power, or reject the oath and remain stagnant under the shadow of Archine. In his mind, thoughts churned as he observed each Mages response. he mused silently. His gaze swept over the gathered faces, searching for signs of hesitation, fear, or a guilty conscience. The spy if there was another would hesitate, might even refuse the oath outright. And when they did, Kai would be ready. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 133. Verdis (1) Kai was more than sure there was going to be another spy among the Mages. Veridia was ambitious and calculating; it was unlikely she''d risk everything on just one hidden agent. So, when each of the Magessome with a flicker of hesitation agreed to swear on a mana oath after a brief discussion, Kai couldnt mask his surprise. A few still looked troubled, glancing at each other with furrowed brows, but their resolve held. They had made their decision. That was good for him on paper, at least. But it did little to quiet his paranoia. As the Mages exchanged uneasy glances, Kai slid a folded note across the table toward them, detailing the contents of the mana oath. He had spent hours last night crafting it after the banquet, thinking through every possible way a spy could leak information to his enemies. Unlike the broad strokes he had used for the barbarians, this oath was thorough, covering every avenue of treachery he could imagine. He left no room for ambiguity. As the Mages read through the specifics, their eyes widened. The rooms air grew tense as if they could feel the weight of the words pressing on their shoulders. One Mage with a scar across his cheek muttered under his breath as he scanned the paper, his brows furrowing deeper with each line: A younger Mage, a girl with a trembling hand, read another part aloud as if testing the strength of the words: Kai watched their reactions closely, his expression neutral but his mind racing. "You can still decide to say no. Once you make this oath, there''s no turning back." His words were the final warning to them. But each Mage, after a tense moment of silence, nodded, one by one. Some swallowed hard, but they all placed their hands over their chests, calling upon their mana to seal the oath. A pulse of energy rolled through the room as their mana flowed into the vow, swirling through the air like threads of blue light, binding each Mage to their promise. As the mana settled, Kai scanned their faces, wondering if any of them possessed hidden items to circumvent the oath, something that could parse out loopholes or manipulate its effects. But he shook off the thought quickly, grounding himself in the knowledge of the magic he wielded. Mana oaths were a special breed of spellwork ancient, uncompromising. They couldn''t be broken without devastating consequences. You could only hide loopholes in the wording, and he had left none this time. His fingers traced the edge of the note, now crumpled from the Mages hands, and he let out a breath he hadnt realised he was holding. If these Mages truly had hidden agendas, they wouldnt have bound themselves to a contract this airtight. For the first time in days, a small knot of tension unravelled in his chest, but he kept his guard up. After all, paranoia had kept him alive this long. Kai took a deep breath. For the first time in days, he allowed himself a small, rare smile. It could have been far worse. But before he could savour the moment for too long, Jacks interrupted him. So, what now, Lord Arzan? Jacks asked, crossing his arms. Were all members of the Sorcerers Tower, right? Kai nodded. Yes, unofficially. But before you can join officially, youll need to complete the paperwork at Archine Tower to be transferred to Veralt under my command. Theyll probably allow it without much issue after getting every information about the beast wave. Once thats sorted, Ill start teaching you new spells, and well go over your methods for taking in mana, refining your techniques. A murmur of excitement rippled through the mages. They exchanged eager looks, but Jacks raised a hand, willing to ask another question. So... does that mean wed need to go back to the capital? Kai shook his head, then paused. From what I know, you can just send a letter to request the transfer. But... He hesitated, gauging their reactions. I need a few of you to return to the capital. Why? Another Mage, a woman with a lightning scar on her forehead, asked warily. Kai sighed, crossing his arms. I need a list. Specifically, a list of everyone whos been tested by Archine Towers Mages to know if they have all three mana organs. The Tower must have records and I would need them. The Mages exchanged puzzled looks, and Jacks narrowed his eyes. What do you need a list like that for? You dont need to know. But Ill need some of you to get a copy of that list for me. Everyone tested in the last twenty years. If you can do it, Ill personally reward you. Consider it an opportunity to earn a little more than just my approval. The promise of a reward seemed to soften the tension in the room. A few of the Mages exchanged nods, already thinking about the risks and the potential gains. Kai kept his expression neutral, though inside, the gears of his mind churned. The list was essential for him to identify more Enforcers. He was already discussing sending Mages to different parts of the kingdom to look for more Enforcers, but that wasn''t as easy. But a list from the tower might help pinpoint those who had the two mana organs essential to become an Enforcer. According to him, there was a lot of untapped potential in the whole kingdom. And he wasn''t about to let it go to waste. Several of the Mages perked up at the mention of returning to the capital. Kai could see it in their expressions the barely hidden eagerness to take on this task. Some of them had a gleam in their eyes, the promise of a reward obviously enticing. But he also knew that, for many of them, there was another reason for their enthusiasm. They hadnt come to Veralt with all their belongings; most had left behind personal items, tools, and supplies in the capital, never expecting to make it out alive. Now, with the prospect of officially moving their base of operations from Archine Tower to Veralt, they probably saw this as the perfect chance to retrieve their things. But before any of them could suggest anything, Kai raised a hand, cutting off their unspoken plans. Lets focus on the task at hand. Theres no time for personal trips right now. Anyone going back to the capital will have a mission, and thats the only reason Ill allow it. A few shoulders slumped, disappointment flickering in their eyes, but they nodded. Kais gaze swept across the room, ensuring the point had sunk in before he continued. With that settled, its time to move on to something equally important. The new codex of Mages that will govern the Sorcerers Tower. The Mages glanced at each other, curiosity replacing their earlier disappointment. Jacks frowned and spoke aloud the questions that were in their minds. Codex? Whats that supposed to be? Its a set of rules, Kai explained, his voice firm. Rules that every Mage under the Tower will follow. This isnt just some suggestion its a standard were going to live by. There will be no exceptions, no bending the rules when its convenient. These guidelines will apply to all of us myself included. The codex will define what it means to be a Mage under the Towers banner, and anyone who cant follow it will find themselves unwelcome here. He paused for a moment. Then, with a flick of his hand, a parchment appeared on the table in front of him, inscribed with neat, precise writing. The Mages leaned in, eager to hear what these rules might be. Kai began to read aloud: "Rule One: No Mage shall initiate unprovoked violence against another unless in self-defence or under the directive of the Tower''s leadership." A few of the Mages exchanged nods, some looking relieved at the rule. Kais voice took on a sharper edge as he continued. "Rule Two: Discrimination of any kindbe it based on race, origin, class, or magical affinityis strictly prohibited. We are all here because we are Mages, and that is the only standard we judge by." He paused, glancing at a few faces that stiffened slightly. Veralt had always been a bit more accepting than other places, but some prejudices ran deep. Kai hoped this would start to chip away at those barriers. "Rule Three: Blood magic, curses, and spells that warp the mind are forbidden, except under special conditions approved by the Tower. This Tower will not be a breeding ground for dark arts or bloodthirsty ambition." This rule brought a few murmurs, but no one openly objected. Kais expression softened slightly, but his tone remained unyielding. "Rule Four: Every Mage is expected to contribute to the defence of Veralt and it''s surrounding territories in times of crisis. We are not just scholars or researchers; we are guardians. If we do not protect the city, we do not deserve to be here." The room grew still, each Mage digesting the seriousness of the words. Kai said, his gaze sweeping the room one final time, "Rule Five: Any betrayal of the Tower, or of Veralt itself, will be met with the severest punishment. We are bound by our oaths, but loyalty is more than a magical promise its an expectation. Break it, and you face the consequences." Silence settled over the room as Kai finished the fifth rule. He lowered the parchment to see the expressions. It was more than just a list of dos and don''tsit was a foundation for a new kind of order, one that aimed to harness their power without succumbing to the darker impulses that magic could tempt. He knew it would take time to implement all these things, but he wasn''t going to let the world fall into war again. Even if he was going to train these Mages into Combat Mages, he was going to make sure they are disciplined enough to know what their power meant. Rule number six. He continued to read from the parchment at hand while everyone surrounding him listened carefully. Sarch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. *** After wrapping up the discussion with the Mages, Kai gestured for Klan and Jacks to stay behind. These two had been with him the longest out of the group, even if their relationship had started off rocky. Now, their rough edges had smoothed a bit. According to Claire, theyd even started showing some respect to the maids less arrogance, more cooperation. Kai couldnt be sure if this change in behaviour was an attempt to earn his favour, a genuine shift in their attitudes, or some other agenda. But in the end, it didnt matter to him as long as it made them easier to work with. Once the rest of the mages had left, he turned his attention to Klan and Jacks, who had settled into the chairs across from him. So, Kai began, resting his hands on the table, how do you feel about the new Tower and everything I told you about? The two Mages exchanged a glance, and Klan was the first to speak, his voice tinged with a rare hint of enthusiasm. Its... very exciting, Lord Arzan. Ive never heard of any of the Towers having such a set of rules for their members. Its different, for sure. Im sure therell be some who wont like it, but I think the codex is a good idea. Kai raised an eyebrow, curious. Why do you think its a good idea? Klan leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. Well, one of the rules you put in is that higher-ranked Mages cant bully or take credit for the work of those beneath them. At Archine Tower, there was none of that no protection for novice or apprentice Mages. You could have your research stolen or be forced into dangerous assignments, and no one would bat an eye as long as you didnt cross someone with power. Klan nodded in agreement. Yeah, its been a problem there for as long as I can remember. Having a rule like that, it gives useveryonea sense of fairness. That were not just under the thumb of whoever has the most connections or the highest rank. Kai listened closely, taking in their perspective. It confirmed his suspicions about the flaws within the Archine Tower and reinforced his decision to put the codex in place. He nodded slowly, a thoughtful look crossing his face. Then, he met their gazes directly, shifting the conversation to the real reason hed kept them back. I have a specific task for one of you, he said, his tone carrying a weight that made both of them straighten in their seats. They exchanged another glance, the atmosphere suddenly tense. What is it, Lord Arzan? Kais eyes sharpened. I want one of you to go back to Archine Tower. Not just for the reporting and the paperwork about your transfer. Klan furrowed his brow. Then? Beyond the list I already talked to you all about, I need someone there who can act as my eyes and ears. An informer. Someone who can keep me updated on the Towers movements, any... irregularities that might be of interest to me. He looked at their reactions carefully. The request was a dangerous one, but if he was going to build something in Veralt, he needed to know what Archine Tower was upto. Klan and Jacks both stiffened at the implication, but neither looked away. They understood the consequences of what he was asking. It wasnt just a matter of allegiance; it was a step into a game far more dangerous than just getting a list for him. Look, Im not asking you to spy on any Savant Mages or put yourselves at unnecessary risk. All you need to do is live your life in the Tower as you normally would, while keeping your ears open. Send me reports about the rumors, any strange happenings, or shifts in attitude within the Tower. From time to time, I might ask you to do something specific, but I promise there wont be anything dangerous. And if you agree, Ill make it worth your while. Ill personally teach you spells that even Magus Veridia wouldnt know spells that could give you an edge. And Ill help you reach the next circle faster. Youve seen how I work. You know what Im capable of. At that, their eyes twinkled with interest. The promise of unique knowledge and a chance to ascend through the ranks faster than the usual grind was tempting more tempting than either of them wanted to admit. But they exchanged a look, a silent conversation passing between them. They both seem to know that what Kai was asking wasnt a simple favour. Even if he claimed there wouldnt be danger, this task would bring a new level of uncertainty to their lives. They had already made their mana oaths, binding themselves to Kai, but this would take that commitment a step further. After a moment, Jacks cleared his throat, breaking the silence. This... isnt something we can decide right now, Lord Arzan. Its a lot to take in. Klan nodded, his face more serious than usual. Wed like some time to think about it. If thats alright. Kai inclined his head. Of course. Take the time you need. Just remember, the opportunity wont wait forever. If you choose to accept, the rewards will be there. And if you decide not to... well, well move forward as we are now, no hard feelings. With that, the tension in the room softened a bit. Kai knew he had planted the seed, and whether or not it took root was now in their hands. *** The sound of hooves thundered across the dirt path like a desperate drum beat. The rider, hunched forward on the back of a weary horse, clutched the reins tightly with bloodied hands. He kept glancing over his shoulder, eyes wild and panicked, as if expecting shadows to leap from the trees and drag him back into the darkness. Blood dripped from a gash on his forehead, where an arrow had narrowly missed its mark, cutting a shallow groove across his brow. Another wound bled sluggishly from his shoulder, soaking through the tattered remains of his cloak. Despite his injuries and the hollow ache of hunger gnawing at his belly, he urged the horse forward, pushing it beyond its limits. His lips, cracked and dry, moved without pause, forming the same desperate words like a mantra. Please be close... I need to reach Veralt... fast. Otherwise, Verdis will fall... to the wrong hands. His voice trembled, barely a whisper over the rush of wind. His mind spun with images of what he had left behind. He couldnt stop now, not when he was so close, not when Verdiss fate hinged on his message reaching the right ears. He swallowed hard, his throat dry as sand, and urged the horse to pick up speed despite its laboured breathing. The muscles in his legs ached from clinging to the saddle, and his vision blurred with exhaustion. Days without proper food and rest had carved hollows into his cheeks, leaving him gaunt and ghostly. But he kept going the only thing that drove him forward was the slim hope that he might reach Veralt before it was too late. Then, as the horse crested a final rise, he saw it Veralt. The city''s walls loomed over the landscape like a stone giant, high and imposing against the darkening sky. Relief washed over him, making his body sag in the saddle. He released the breath he had been holding, a shaky, half-choked sound escaping his lips. If Lord Arzan is really as great as the rumours say, he muttered to himself, eyes fixed on the city that might be his last hope, then Verdis... might still live. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 134. Verdis (2) Once the Sorcerer''s Tower plan gained momentum, Kai wasted no time pulling the Mason, Barret, into the thick of it. Kai walked the grounds with him, marking a prime spot in the heart of the city, right where he envisioned the tower soaring skyward a grand seven-story structure, capped by an enchantment-laden spire and a lift threading up its core. Barret looked on, eyes wide with reluctant awe, and muttered about timelines and resources. A seven-story tower with a lift and layer upon layer of enchantments couldnt rise overnight. But Kai, with his recent coffers brimming thanks to the profits from Heat stone sales, coffee contracts, and his hefty spoils from the beast wave, was undeterred. Money flowed steadily, and he had every intention of using it to fund not just a tower but a city that would be remembered in the kingdoms history. He mobilised Mages as labour, using their spells to fast-track the construction, sparing no expense. The foundation alone buzzed with mana that would support generations of Mages to come. Still, the vision of it remained unfinished in his mind a few blank corners where future fortunes would fill the gaps. The nobles who had recently descended upon Veralt to take part in the Count ceremony and win his loyalty didn''t give up after signing the contracts for mana cannons. They draped marriage contracts before him of young, noble ladies, trying to bind him that way. But once he made it clear that he had no intention of taking a fiance, most left in frustration. Knight Darian and his men still lingered saying he was awaiting orders to return. Kai didn''t know if it was actually the truth or there was something else, but Duke Blackwood was one noble he had a good relationship with and he didn''t wish to doubt them for now. When the last noble departed, Kai let out a rare sigh of relief, casting his gaze down toward Verdis, his new domain. Rumours had already reached his ears flickers of dissent, unrest about the new lord and some voices disgruntled and unhappy with him getting the city. Just as he was settling into a strategy meeting with Killian, Francis, Orion and the rest of the Enforcers present, a guard entered the chamber, looking visibly disturbed. Speak, what is it? My lord, he said, a man has arrived claiming to be the former administrator of Verdis. Hes bloodied and requests an immediate audience. Kais brows arched in interest. Normally, hed have the guards verify such a claim, run a few identity checks, but urgency gnawed at him. He ordered his men to tend to the man with healing potions and brought him straight into the meeting. Francis and Killian exchanged wary glances, but said nothing. *** A few steady minutes passed by as Kai guessed that the guards were taking their time, trying to stabilise the man''s condition. Finally when the man stumbled into the room, barely held upright by the guards at his side, Kai sensed the trouble that followed him. ICLord Arzan, my name is Zorgar Xarous. Kai nodded at his immediate introduction. Despite the healing potion beginning to close his wounds, Zorgar''s face was still ashen, and his clothes remained soaked with dark, dried blood. He looked like he would collapse at any given moment. Especially when he paused before Kai, taking in his calm gaze before dropping into a shallow bow. Count Arzan, he rasped, his voice thick with fatigue, I served as the administrator of Verdis, managing its affairs after the previous lords death. Ive come to beg for your aid. Please defeat the forces that are attempting to seize Verdis right now. We dont have much time. Kai held up a hand, his voice controlled but direct. Calm yourself, Zorgar. Start from the beginning and dont leave out any details." Zorgars head bobbed in a shaky nod, and he took a steadying breath. The previous Baron of Verdis, Lord Morcant took over the territory five years back when he was relatively young. Two years ago, he set out to deal with a goblin infestation threatening the farmlands. He sustained an injury to his heart during that campaign a blow he never recovered from. Zorgars eyes squinted, as though reliving that bleak period. He immediately shook his head as if blocking the images that came to his mind. His family had a history of heart ailments, and despite the best efforts of Mages and potions, he passed shortly afterward. He continued, his tone growing more urgent. I took over the administrative duties after his passing since he had no children, keeping the city afloat as best I could. Wed heard talk of the Ducal succession and how Duke Kellius intended to pass Verdis to one of his sons. We held onto hope that a new lord would arrive to claim the city soon. He paused, swallowing. But then your brother refused the territory. His decision left Verdis in the shadow of well, uncertainty. Thats when Knight Henderson took charge. Francis sighed loudly next to Kai who assumed it was because he had gone through something similar before Arzan had taken the charge of the city. Even then, the city had been left on its own for a year before Kai had taken over his body. Knight Henderson took charge in the meantime, Francis said. Ive heard of him, but how did he come to assume control? A pained look flickered across Zorgars face as he hesitated, then relented. Knight Henderson he had a relationship with the late lords mother, a scandalous affair kept from most. She helped him secure control, pushing aside any who objected. Its been a year now since he took charge, claiming it was only until a new lord could be appointed. But with no sign of a new lord on the horizon, people began to believe the city had been abandoned. Zorgars voice grew faint but resolute as he continued. It was a great relief when King Sullivan appointed you as Count of Verdis, my lord. Id heard about how you transformed Veralt, how you even withstood the beast wave. But not everyone shared my relief Knight Henderson least of all. When he learned of your appointment, his ambition reared its head. He sought alliances with nearby nobles, hoping to secure their support to declare himself Baron of Verdis. He even wrote to your brother, Duke Lucian, petitioning for his backing. And he didnt stop there Henderson planned to challenge you for the city outright. When I confronted him, he had me locked in jail. Kais gaze sharpened. How did you escape? A brief, weary smile flickered across Zorgars face. He rubbed his hands together, fighting a coldness that didnt linger in the air. Id built a rapport with some of the guards over the years. A few sympathised with me and helped me slip out, but Hendersons men gave chase. Thats how I ended up here, wounded and pleading for your help. Zorgars gaze turned imploring once more. Count Arzan, Verdis needs you. Please, help us. Kai shifted his attention to Francis. Does this line up with the intelligence we have? Francis crossed his arms, frowning. Partially. We knew Henderson was running the city alongside Zorgar here, but his ambition to take over wasnt clear. Not like this. Zorgar grimaced. Thats because Henderson has choked off communication. Once he confirmed the king had chosen you as lord, he forbade anyone from leaving Verdis. Hes kept information tightly controlled, only allowing his own men to monitor the citys borders. Kai nodded at that. It was then, Killian, who had been silent for the most part, spoke up. His face held that usual sternness. What happened to the scout we sent to Verdis for information? Zorgars expression turned haunted. Henderson executed him in front of the cityfolk. It was meant as a warning. Fear keeps people silent, keeps them from even trying to resist. Kai inhaled slowly. He felt the tension creeping up to his shoulder blades and leaving a tinge of headache behind. The situation was brutal, and it needed immediate action. He looked around at the quiet room, his Enforcers watching him with a palpable readiness. He felt a cold anger inside of him at the scout''s death, but he needed to be calm to take revenge. He looked back at Zorgar. Sarch* The N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Are there any Mages left in Verdis? The only one, Zorgar replied, is the former lords mother a second circle Mage. Its her magic that kept Henderson secure. Without her, hed have lost control a long time ago. What forces does he have at his disposal? Right now? Zorgar listed them quickly. Henderson has recruited about a hundred and fifty guards, mainly from forcefully enlisting commoners. He anticipated an attack, so he shored up every defence he could. But, my lord, theyre poorly trained. Mostly just ordinary folks hes forced into service. Kais lips twisted into a grim smile. Then this should be straightforward. Well take back Verdis and ensure Henderson answers for every last one of his crimes. The situation calls for a good punishment at its finest. The gathered Enforcers murmured in agreement. Kais gaze swept over them, each prepared for the mission ahead. The tension in the room lifted, replaced with determination. Zorgar blinked, surprise flickering across his bloodied face. Suddenly, he seemed to be the only person who was opposed to the idea. My lord dont you think that might be a bit hasty? Verdis is fortified, and Hendersons forces may be commoners, but theyre still positioned to guard every entrance. I know youre a powerful Mage, but even so Kais expression didnt change, his calm gaze fixed on Zorgar. I believe you misunderstand, he replied evenly. I dont intend to lift a finger. My knights will handle this. He turned to Killian and the other Enforcers. A confident smile tugged at the corner of Killians mouth, mirrored by the quiet nods from the others. Zorgar started, a flicker of disbelief on his face. You truly believe your men can handle this on their own? Kai shared a similar smile to Killian when he looked at Zorgar Henderson relies on fear to command his men, but my knights are bound by something far stronger. They will show Verdis what true leadership looks like. *** The princesss carriage rolled gently through the golden fields, its wheels rumbling along the dirt path as sunlight poured through the windows. Princess Amara leaned forward, her gaze wandering to the view outside, where merchant carriages and travellers bustled past on the well-worn road. She noted the variety: traders with barrels of goods, carriages full of people, and riders leading wagons brimming with supplies. As she had gotten closer to Veralt, the signs of life had kept increasing. Princess, please sit down, Anya urged, a hint of worry in her voice. What if someone recognizes you? Amara tilted her head with a faint smile. No one knows me outside the noble circles, and I dont see any noble carriages around. Her eyes flicked to the road again. But its surprising just how many people are moving towards Veralt. Theres so much movement. Her maid nodded, hands folded in her lap. Its because the news of Veralt surviving the beast wave has spread everywhere. When we stopped in town, I asked around, and people mentioned that Lord Arzans investing heavily in new projects. They say that merchants and commoners who fled are flocking back, hearing the citys fortunes are on the rise again. Amara nodded, a spark of curiosity in her eyes. Lord Arzan truly is an intriguing man Her words trailed off as something caught her attention through the grassy plains on the opposite side. A retinue of armoured men was cutting through the fields, their polished armour glinting in the sunlight. Banners fluttered above them, bearing a crest a simple but striking design shed seen before. A phoenix rising from dark ashes. She faintly saw the sun behind the phoenix, bold and glowing. Amaras brow lifted with interest, and she gestured subtly to her maid. Isnt that the crest of Veralt? Her maid leaned over for a better look, nodding. Yes, Your Highness, it is. But Im not certain where theyre headed. Intrigued, the princess waved to the merchant driver in the front through a small window. You there wheres that procession headed? The merchant gave a polite smile. Most likely to Verdis, Your Highness. Its the closest city from here and recently came under Lord Arzans rule after he was made a Count. I assume they are going to establish his rule there, but I can be wrong with so many armoured men moving at the same time. Her gaze lingered back on the procession, her mind working. she wondered. The chance to see the new Count and get a glimpse of the man who saved her was too tempting. She turned to the merchant. Follow them, she commanded. I want to see where theyre headed. The merchant blinked in surprise but nodded, quickly steering the carriage to follow the road alongside Lord Arzans procession. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 135. Verdis (3) Henderson looked down from his balcony, right outside his room, at the city of Veridis. The twilight settled over its winding streets and he felt the corners of his lips lifting up a hard-won smile. His mind roamed back over the years, tracing the path from an unremarkable knight to this point. Hed served more lords than he could count, each promising the same lies of reward and honour. Yet each one had discarded him without a second thought when he had asked to be something more than just a mere knight. Until he arrived in Verdis. The fool of a baron had practically served him his chance on a silver platter. Eager to charge into battle against goblins, Lord Morcant left no heir and returned from the field barely breathing. The young noble was soon gone, and the empty title lingered tempting, within reach. Henderson made his move then, discarding his former allegiances and his own scruples alike. The barons widowed mother, desperate and weary, still held enough sway to make him legitimate. He endured her, swallowing down his revulsion with a flirty smile, coaxing her with promises he never intended to keep. Her loneliness and his persistence made for an ugly, if convenient, alliance. Several times, he felt like throwing his guts out for getting himself into something so drastic, but she had what he didnt and that was magic. But today, as he watched the city, the satisfaction of having the city in his palm faded, and a shadow crossed his face. He shut his eyes, the muscles in his jaw tense. Something troubling you? came a voice from behind. He felt arms slide around his waist, and he forced his scowl into a smile, the act as rehearsed as breathing to him. Beside him stood Lady Esmira, the previous barons ageing mother, the current partner of his life. Her face was weathered with lines that even the dimming light couldnt soften. Her once-rich hair had thinned, and she bore the years openly a continuous reminder of the price hed paid. With feigned warmth, he let her take his hand, his thumb grazing over her paper-thin skin as he looked down into her eager gaze. Only the usual worries, my dear, he sighed, feigning a look of exhaustion. You know how hard Ive worked for this city since your sons passing, every day, every night. Esmiras hand tightened on his, her eyes soft with sympathy as she took in his words. Youve sacrificed so much. I know it. And yet, Henderson continued, bitterness cutting into his voice, our claim to Verdis remains fragile. The King has betrayed us, giving this city to the son of some distant Duke, who knows nothing of its people or its struggles. His gaze darkened. Even men like Zorgar have turned on me, too blind to see that Im the one whos kept Verdis from ruin. Im the only one who truly cares about it. Esmiras hand rested gently on Hendersons cheek, the warmth of her palm sending a shiver through him that he quickly suppressed. His jaw clenched at her touch. You dont have to worry, she reassured him, her voice like honey syrup. Youve already reached out to the nearby nobles, even Duke Lucian Kellius. Ive heard whispers that he has little love for his brother, so surely he will support us. Henderson nodded, though a sense of doubt crossed his face. Yes, but I havent received any response yet. Ive written to the first prince as well, but nothing. Theyre ignoring me. His tone grew tense, the frustration evident. I need their support to establish a claim before I can even approach the crown. Im certain theyd grant it, but Her eyes softened as she placed her hand on his shoulder. For sure they will, but for now, we must hold against Arzan Kellius forces. Hes a Mage, and though I believe my experience will give me the upper hand, the rumours about him stopping a beast wave make me nervous. Henderson chuckled, squeezing her hand reassuringly. Dont fret. Everyone knows his exploits are exaggerated. Just a year ago, he was known as nothing more than a wastrel no one changes so drastically. The Duke Blackwoods forces were the real power behind him, not his own. The magical creations left by his mother may have helped him, but Ive heard those are fixed to the walls. He leaned closer, confidence radiating from him. Well be fine. We simply have to hold against him in a siege battle until we get support. Our walls are sturdy as His words were cut off by a deafening explosion that shattered the stillness, the sound rolling across the landscape like thunder. Hendersons grip on the railing tightened as he turned, his eyes wide in disbelief. A plume of smoke spiralled into the evening sky, darkening the horizon, and a section of the city wall crumbled, sending a shower of debris raining down like an ominous omen. The ground trembled slightly beneath his feet, and for a moment, he lost his balance, reeling back as the sight registered in his mind. Esmira gasped beside him, her eyes wide with shock. That was a spell. Nothing else could cause such a reaction. Her hands immediately went to her thin lips. Hendersons heart raced as he stared at the devastation. The realisation hit him like a cold wave. But how? he muttered, panic creeping into his voice. How could he have breached our defences so quickly? He stepped closer to the edge, peering into the distance where chaos was beginning to unfold. Figures in armour moved with purpose, and the banners of Arzan Kellius snapped in the wind, signalling the march of a formidable force. Henderson''s earlier confidence began to fray at the edges, replaced by a growing sense of dread. What are we going to do? Esmira asked, her voice trembling now, the illusion of control slipping through their fingers. Hold fast! Henderson barked, though his own heart was pounding with uncertainty. The sound of the explosion still echoed in his ears. He felt a surge of adrenaline as he stomped his foot against the floor. Theyre here, he declared. We need to go fight him! His voice was loud enough to send a tremor through his own body. He grasped Esmiras hand, his grip firm yet desperate, and looked into her eyes. My beloved, you need to contend against him. We cannot let him take whats rightfully ours. Esmira met his gaze, her face turned to a frown. Uncertainty, thats what was written on her face. I will do my best, she replied, but there was a clear hesitation in her voice, a quiver that hinted at her fear. Henderson chose to ignore it, shoving aside his own doubts. This was not the time for weakness. Just then, a knight burst into the room, his armour clanking with urgency. Lord Henderson! We are under attack by Count Arzans forces! Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Hendersons heart raced as he straightened, his mind sharpening. I heard that, he replied, his voice steady despite the chaos around him. Get every available force out there! If anyone can fight, they need to battle if not, kill them yourself! Ill be there in a minute. The knight nodded and hurried out, the sound of his footsteps echoing down the corridor. As soon as the door slammed shut behind him, Henderson walked inside his room and rushed toward a cabinet in the corner of the room. He flung it open, frantically rummaging through the letters and documents stashed inside. I hope that noble bastard is as dumb as the rumours from a year ago, he muttered under his breath, a plan beginning to form in his mind. A backup plan he had made a while back. He pulled out several letters. Hendersons fingers trembled with a mixture of anxiety and determination as he looked at them. As he turned back to Esmira, her brow was furrowed in concentration, her lips pressed together in a tight line. Do you really think you can sway them? she asked, her voice edged with doubt. They will see the truth, he replied, his tone fierce with conviction. They must! This city belongs to me We cannot let Arzan Kellius take it. And if they dont? Henderson''s heart raced at the thought, but he forced a confident smile. Then well fight, and well show them exactly why I deserve this city. Now, go and prepare yourself. When the time comes, I need you to be ready. I have a plan, and its going to work. As she turned to leave, Henderson gathered the letters, the urgency of the situation pushing him forward. *** Kai stood on the outskirts of the current battlefield, his heart pounding with both pride and disbelief as he watched the brutal efficiency of his Enforcers. He had known they had grown stronger, their skills sharpened by the relentless pressure of the recent beast wave and the artefacts they wielded. Yet, he hadnt fully grasped how immense the chasm between them and the ordinary guards truly was. Before him unfolded a scene of chaotic carnage. His Enforcers surged forward, a tidal wave of lethal grace and precision, cutting down any guard that dared to oppose them. The walls of Verdis had fallen easily enough, thanks to Killian''s powerful [Lightning Strike]. Yet, it was the guards of Verdis who proved even easier to dispatch. At the front, Killian unleashed his lightning affinity in blinding bursts. His blade crackled with electric arcs, each swing discharging bolts that leapt from one guard to another, lighting them up in violent jerks before they collapsed. He surged into clusters of defenders, his movements a blur of electric blue as his [Lightning Step] made him faster, leaving charred bodies in his wake with every flash of his sword. The thrill of battle was visible in his usually neutral eyes as he advanced without hesitation, drawing the guards attention only to leave them staring into nothingness. Close behind, Gareth moved like a shadow come to life, slipping from one patch of darkness to another, his form barely a suggestion of movement. With his shadow affinity, he seemed to dissolve and reappear behind guards, his dagger sliding between armour joints. The guards barely sensed him, feeling only the chill of steel at their throats as Gareths blade struck, and then he was gone, leaving only collapsed bodies and loud screams from those who fell. All the time, Kai noticed the small grin playing across his face. Feroy charged headlong into the thick of battle, his body a living flame. Fire crackled from his spear and every time every blow erupted in a searing blaze that sent guards sprawling with scorched armour and blistered skin. His laughter was fierce and unrestrained as he looked down onto the fallen opponent. He barreled into formations of men like a battering ram, swinging his flaming spear with wild glee, scattering soldiers as if they were nothing. He moved through the lines with the relentless force of a wildfire, every shout and scream seeming to only fuel his furious momentum. Bord and Talon swept through the ranks in perfect tandem, their wind affinities an elegant, swirling chaos. Bords swings from his sword summoned gusts that disoriented and scattered the guards, their footing lost as they stumbled into Talons waiting dagger. Talons movements were nearly invisible, slipping past sword strikes and weaving through attacks like the wind itself, his spear flashing like lightning as he struck at any exposed weak spot. Kai thought to himself. With a heavy strike to the ground, Clement sent tremors rolling through the battlefield, unsteadying the guards and making them easy prey for his massive hammer. Beside him, Brans every blow landed with the force of an avalanche, armour crumpling and bones shattering under his assault. And then there was Lyra, advancing with a glacial calm that contrasted sharply with the frenzy of battle around her. Her affinity for ice left a trail of frost on every surface she touched with her sword, her enemies limbs locking and freezing as she hit them anywhere she could reach. A guard lunged at her, only to find his arms encased in thick ice, his scream cut short as Lyra shattered him with a single swing. Bastard! She spat on him without a thought and moved towards her next victim. On the opposite side of the chaos, Kais ordinary guards moved strategically, prioritising the protection of the civilians caught in the crossfire. They formed a protective line, doing their best to shield the innocent from the brutal conflict unfolding around them, while their legion advanced toward the castle looming in the heart of the city. Zorgar stood beside Kai, his face pale as he struggled to comprehend the ferocity of the assault. His eyes seemed glued to the battlefield, as if they might fall from their sockets at any moment. I never expected there could be such a small but lethal force, he muttered, awe-mixing with disbelief as he watched Killian unleash a series of rapid lightning strikes that highlighted the chaos. Kai turned to him, a small smile tugging at his lips. They train hard, he replied, pride swelling in his chest. Zorgars finger pointed shakily toward Killian, who was now standing amidst a pile of defeated guards, their forms smoking and twitching on the ground. Is Knight Killian a Mage? Not only him, the other knights are Mages too? he asked, genuine curiosity lacing his tone. Kai shook his head, the smile fading slightly. No. Look at his sword, he instructed, gesturing to the glowing weapon in Killians hand. Its an artefact embedded with Atheum. Hes channelling the energy through that. Zorgar nodded, seemingly accepting Kai''s explanation about the Enforcers and their artefacts. Kai thought, knowing the secrecy surrounding the Enforcer''s source of strength was advantageous right now. He had plans to reveal it, but not in a way that other nobles would be able to make use of it. As the clash intensified, the opposing guards attempted to form a defensive line, raising their shields in a desperate bid to stop the advancing wave of Enforcers. However, it was as if they stood against an unyielding tide every clash against the Enforcers'' onslaught resulted in splintering wood and shattered metal. They kept moving, reaching the edge of the castle. Zorgar glanced over at Kai, confidence seeping into his voice. At this rate, I believe it will be easy enough to take over Verdis. The only problem would be Mage Es Before he could finish, a deafening crack of thunder echoed across the battlefield, momentarily drowning out the sounds of chaos. A figure appeared on the castle balcony, silhouetted against the stormy sky. Her long, white hair whipped around her face like lightning itself, and her eyes crackled with the same energy. The Mage, old yet regal, radiated a palpable aura of power. Behind her stood a man with striking blonde hair, armour gleaming, and a sword held at the ready an imposing figure bolstering her formidable presence. Zorgar squinted, recognition dawning in his expression. Thats Lady Esmiraa second circle Mage and the strongest person in the cityand Henderson, the traitor. With a voice that thundered like the storm around her, Esmira yelled, Who dares to attack Verdis?! This territory belongs to my late son, and I now rule over it with my knight! You have intruded upon my domain, and any noble who attempts to lay claim to it will be met with the full force of my thunder! Do you think yourselves strong enough to challenge my authority? My power is vast, and the skies themselves will respond to my command! She gestured dramatically, and lightning flickered ominously in the clouds, illuminating her fierce expression. I will not hesitate to crush those who threaten my sons legacy! Stand down, or prepare to feel the wrath of a grieving mother who has lost too much to let any would-be usurper take what is rightfully hers! Her voice trembled with the weight of her conviction, the atmosphere crackling with tension as she awaited a response, daring anyone to step forward and defy her. Kai stood tall, his demeanour calm and unflinching. He smirked, the challenge igniting a spark of excitement in his chest. Why dont you try? he replied, his voice steady as the storm roared around them. What did you just say, you imbecile! Without letting Kai reply, she summoned a bolt of lightning that arced towards him. It was a bright streak of raw energy that aimed to kill him. But as it flew through the air, a gust of wind rose from beneath him, forming a shield that deflected the strike harmlessly into the sky. Behind him, Zorgar shivered, almost falling on the ground due to the clash of spells. Kai looked back for a second before deciding that she wasn''t strong enough for him to waste a lot of time on her. Thunder is a good party trick, he called out, lifting into the air with the winds aid. The strain of the [Soar] spell was heavy on his recovering body, but he reckoned he could give a good show to the watching citizens. In the end, the spell was similar to [Flight], but wasn''t as flexible. It might scare kids Ill give you that. But its nothing against someone like me. With a swift motion, he unleashed a flurry of [Wind Blades], sharp and glistening like daggers in the stormy light. The old Mage''s eyes widened in shock as she summoned lightning to defend herself, but the onslaught was too rapid. The blades zipped through the air, cutting through the static energy she wielded with ease. One of the blades struck true, slicing into her neck. Esmira gasped, eyes wide with disbelief, and blood sprayed from the wound as she crumpled to the ground, the once fearsome figure now lifeless at the edge of the balcony. It was anticlimactic at best. Henderson stood frozen, wide-eyed, his face pale as he absorbed the scene unfolding before him. His jaw hung open, shock etching deeper lines into his features. I assume you are Henderson, Kai began, a mocking edge to his tone. Ive heard youve been ruling like a tyrant in my territory. Id have to take you in and put you on trial before giving you a swift death. Henderson''s bravado faltered under what had just happened, and he instinctively took a step back, the confidence he''d tried to muster dissipating like smoke in the wind. His chest heaved up and down rapidly. Why don''t you just Before Henderson could finish his sentence and send out [Infernal Whip] to capture him, the man spoke. Wait! I have letters from Prince Eldric and Princess Amara that recognize me as the official Baron of this place! If you want to fight for it, we need to move to the capital and request King Sullivan for a solution. Kai was about to scoff and capture Henderson, but a voice echoed across the battlefield before he could do that. I dont remember issuing such a letter. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 136. Second meeting Henderson clutched the letter in his hands tightly, the force making it crinkle, fingers digging into the paper. His eyes were so wide that they looked like they would pop out of their sockets any moment now. The young woman behind Arzan walked to the light. Her walk emanated a certain grace only a noble wouldve been trained to, but the aura it sent chills prickling down his spine. He knew who she was Princess Amara. She moved steadily with an almost haunting calmness. Her posture was regal even though she wore a plain commoners dress. Behind her, a timid maid trailed. Her eyes widened and darted as if afraid even to breathe too loudly in her mistresss presence in this situation. The scene that unfolded made it seem like a nightmare he wished to wake up from. To make things worse, his dead lover''s body lay sprawled on the floor. Her body slack, eyes open and glassy with death. She somehow looked older now that she was dead. He looked back up, not allowing his mind to drift from the singular, all-consuming fear clawing its way up to his throat. Because right now, it didnt matter that she was gone; the greater horror was walking right in front of him. When Hendrerson first heard of Count Arzans battle against the beasts, he dismissed the young nobles rise as a tale exaggerated by rumour a figurehead with a few skilled knights and a small claim to fame. Nothing more than that. Hed never once considered that Arzan would have artifact-bearing warriors, let alone drive forward with a power that swept away his defenders. Arzan hed dispatched a second-circle Mage with a single blow. That image played in his mind over and over and over. At this moment, he realised Arzan wasn''t just a rumour. He was a tempest. Hendersons flimsy barriers were nothing against it. It wasn''t as if he was counting on his walls and forces all along. He''d devised a desperate plan one he hadnt imagined hed actually need to put into action. Fake letters. Bluffing that Prince Eldric and Princess Amara had recognised him had been the boldest stroke, a risk hed taken with the wild hope that it would buy enough time for Duke Lucian Kellius and Prince Eldric to notice him for real, see the fit to sponsor his claim in the City of Veridis. But never, not in his darkest nightmares, had he imagined that the princess herself would appear on his doorstop, in the flesh. The cold pit in his stomach churned as she came to a stop just below the place he stood, her chin raised, her eyes piercing straight into him. If looks could kill, he would be six feet buried. As soon as she walked and questioned his words, he recognized who she was. Henderson had been to the balls in the capital early in his life, so he recognised her from one of those. Back then, there had been a smile on her face when she had greeted nobles all around her, but now, there was only a scowl looking back at him. His breath caught in his throat, a pathetic, strangled squeak managing to escape. P-Princess Amara you are here actually The scowl deepened as he spoke. Her gaze, cold as frost, slid to the letters in his grasp. Henderson tried again to open his mouth to claim his innocence, his lips forming a weak, unfinished denial, when Princess Amaras scoff cut through the air disdain thickly layered in her voice. What?! she said. I have never issued a letter of support to you, whoever you are. Nor to anyone else. And I can assure youher gaze slid over his hand once againC That if any such letter were in existence, I would have known the man I gave it to. Perhaps, I should inspect those, she added, narrowing her eyes. To see what I have written in those letters that I don''t remember sending. Henderson felt his insides twist. His mouth went dry, as he watched her turn away from him, already dismissing his presence as if he were nothing more than a bug shed swatted aside. Her attention shifted to the man clad in fine robes, who had yet to make a move. He still hovered in the air, watching Princess Amara carefully. BaronCount Arzan, she said, almost forgetting his new title. I apologise for our second meeting being under such circumstances. Count Arzan floated gracefully to the ground. Henderson''s gaze darted to him, seeking some sign of reaction, but Arzan''s expression remained composed. Still, there was a hint of something in those eyes something that seemed just on the edge of a laugh, as if he felt the absurdity of the scene but had the restraint not to show it. Arzan dipped his head in a bow, and offered a smooth smile. Princess Amara, come out it''s good to see you again, He greeted warmly, his tone lad with a casual familiarity that made Hendersons skin prickle. You look far more radiant than the last time we crossed paths. Princess Amara''s expression softened just a touch, though her eyes remained fixated on him with sharp interest. Before she could reply, Arzan turned, his gaze hardening as it settled on Henderson. Now, he said, his voice sounding unhurried, let me take care of this pest. the words rang in Hendersons mind. Finality, that was what came to him and then pressed down on to his very bones. Cold panic seeped into his chest, spreading through him like a Mage had just froze him. He felt as if he had no escape, but a small part of his mind still looked for one, a chance any chance. Could he even try to hold his ground against Arzan and his knights? Did he have any hope of stopping the approaching Count? Those questions troubled him. His vision flickered to the scattered remains of his forces, lying defeated on the blood-soaked earth, whimpering, moaning and in so much pain and then moved to Esmiras lifeless body beside him, her face frozen in that last moment of terror. His hand tightened on his sword, the reality crashing down around him, heavy as iron chains. There was nothing left. He was alone, surrounded by his failures, his dreams of victory reduced to blood, bones and lifeless souls. Arzan soared forward, his movements looked extremely measured, his figure demanding attention, but all the while exuding a calm that only intensified the dread pooling in Hendersons gut. Each second felt like an eternity as despair clouded his mind. In one final, desperate motion, Hendersons fingers went slack. The sword clattered to the ground beside him, the metalling ring punctuating the air. Slowly, he lowered himself to one knee, his head bowed. The taste of bitter surrender filled his mouth, disgusting his very being. I I surrender, he choked out, his voice coming out barely more than a whisper. Arzan stopped in his tracks immediately, his robes moving to the wind. He looked at him with his eyes narrowed. Good. That was all he said at first. At least you know when to give upC unlike many others. Henderson barely had the chance to breathea sigh of relief before he saw it a flash of movement in Arzans hand, followed by a sudden, sharp crack. A whip, blazing and swift, arced through the air toward him, and Henderson''s world snapped to blackness before he felt the blow. *** Kai sighed, his gaze drifting over the field as the blood and the disruptions were getting cleared. He wondered, feeling the heaviness of yet another political entanglement settle on his shoulders. If anything, Veridis had been far too easy to reclaim, too smooth a victory over the forces of Henderson, who was now shackled in chains and put on display in the middle of the city a constant reminder for the people to know what would happen if you decide to become a traitor for your own land. And yet, even as he showed no leniency for Henderson, he had chosen a different path for the men who stood against him. He had ordered his Enforcers to avoid any lethal strikes, knowing that these very men would soon fall under his banner. Injuring them but sparing their lives sent a message one of strength tempered with mercy. Now, a steady stream of guards lined up for treatment, receiving hastily dispensed healing potions, while medics worked to patch up their wounds. The scent of the potions mingling with the sweat, dirt and blood of the battlefield created an oddly sombre atmosphere. Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. As he watched, he felt the crowds eyes on him. The city people had gathered in numbers, their faces showing different emotions and questions. Some people gossiped among each other, feeding into the curiosity, hope and trepidation. They looked his way, searching for answers, guidance, and maybe the intentions of the new ruler. Kai knew he would need to address them, deliver a speech that would both erase their concerns and secure his authority in Veridis. It was the first step in earning their trust, establishing a foundation that could stabilise the city. But he noticed that not all eyes were on him, many eyes were also drawn to Princess Amara, who sat off to the side with her maid close by, both flanked by two of his guards. Her presence alone was enough to set the rumour mill ablaze. It hadnt helped that she had openly declared her identity, an impulsive move that had only fueled the whispers that were now spreading through the crowd. His mouth pressed into a thin line. He had half-expected Amara to appear eventually, knowing her condition would worsen with time. But he hadnt expected her arrival here, in the middle of a reclamation, surrounded by half-healed soldiers and gossiping cityfolk. At least the timing, though inconvenient, offered some advantage. Her presence lent him a legitimacy he hadnt anticipated needing. Her involvement, however unplanned, would assure people of his status, of his standing within the kingdoms hierarchy. But he could already feel the unspoken expectations that were settling over him, the strings that nobles and royalty alike would no doubt try to attach. And questions he felt so many questions being thrown at him, though no one dared to speak them up. He exhaled, straightening. Killian stood at his side, his eyes tracking the crowd before landing on the princess sitting nearby. What are we going to do now? he asked. Kai didnt miss the look in Killians eyes his knight wasnt just asking about the city. Take over Veridis, persuade the citizens that a change in leadership is the best thing for them. he replied smoothly, Well start community kitchens here, keep the streets safe, and make it clear that things are going to improve. I will give them my promise. he paused, giving Killian a knowing look. But I know thats not what youre really asking. Killian nodded. I meant Princess Amara. Kai glanced at Amara, where she sat under the watch of his guards. I cant exactly stop her from being here, you know. Her reasons for coming here are her own, but the nobles will know about it within a month. The crown will hear of it in a week or two, depending on how her disappearance is handled. From her appearance, Id wager she sneaked out without a guard a princess alone, showing up unannounced without anyone hovering over her for protection? Thats bound to turn a few heads. It could become a headache. But we need her to stay in Veralt for a while, Kai said. Killian nodded in agreement. Yeah, we discussed that before. But do you think she will agree to it? I will see about that. At least she came to me on her own, just as I expected. His mind went to their last meeting, when she had been so close to losing her life. He had left Amara that night with only a temporary solution to her ailment. Since then, he knew she would seek him out again, especially as her condition worsened, and truthfully, he had counted on it. Amaras ailment had offered him a perfect opportunity a need he could fulfil, a bond he could reinforce in the future. Because she would be useful in the months ahead, her presence would lend legitimacy and sway. It was a necessary step for what he had been working towards. And Killian and Francis knew about it, but the only thing was that Amara had arrived sooner than expected. It complicated things, but well, he had to work with this. In the end, he hadnt thought her appearance would be so public. Yet as he watched her with the crowd casting curious glances, talking about her as if she wasnt even there, he knew hed handle it somehow. Hed planned this for far too long to be thrown off now. From the corner of his eyes, he noticed Amara was making her way towards them after saying something to the guards. Killian immediately dipped into a bow, stepping back in a posture of respectful silence. She looked at Kai with some sort of assessment, as she stopped before them. I hope Im not interrupting, she said, her voice carrying a touch of irony, as if she knew precisely the effect her presence had caused. But I wanted to ask if you plan to stay in Veridis for a while. Kai gave a courteous nod. Not for much longer, Princess Amara. Ill be holding a speech to outline the changes, then appointing an administrator to handle the citys day-to-day affairs, along with my own people to keep watch. After that, Ill be heading back to Veralt. She tilted her head, considering her words. In that case, would it be all right if I travel with you? The merchant I arrived with lacks a carriage fit for long journeys. Its just uncomfortable. Kai gave a respectful nod. It would be my honour, princess. He looked at her more closely, allowing her gaze to soften just a fraction. How is your heart now? Amaras smile faltered just slightly, though she quickly masked it with a nod. Its manageable. But its weakening, I feel it strongly. Im sure you already guessed. She glanced around before taking a small step forward. We can speak more about it when were somewhere more private. For now, though, I have a few questions. What kind? Oh, just the kind that satisfies curiosity. She smiled a little at her own words. Huh? Word of defence against the beast wave has reached every corner of the capital. Its the talk of every ball, the subject of every nobles interest. But Id rather hear the tale from you, Count Arzan, than let myself be swayed by gossip and rumours. So, would you be kind enough to tell me the whole tale? *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 137. Council of Elders Kai stood on the raised platform in Verdiss city square, gazing out at the sea of faces filling the plaza below. Every eye was fixed on him, they were waiting for him to start whatever he was about to say. This was his city now, and it was a feeling that he couldnt just shake away. He cleared his throat, the quiet murmur in the crowd settling instantly, and began, his voice firm yet measured, carrying over the square. People of Verdis, by the grace of King Sullivan, I have been granted control of this city our city. He paused, letting the words sink in, his gaze sweeping over the crowd as they straightened. And I promise you, on this very day, that I will see to it that all injustices done here will be accounted for. We will see Verdis rise again, stronger than ever. A ripple of approval passed through the people, some nodding in agreement, others watching with guarded hope. He saw a few faces soften, hardened lines easing as the weight of his words took hold. But he could feel the uncertainty that reeked from their response. Im sure many of you have heard rumours about me, he continued, his lips curling in a half-smile. Some of them good, some of them not so good. A few chuckles broke the tension, people exchanging knowing glances. Youve probably heard about the beast wave and how we held the line. I wont go into the details now, but Ill say this: for the last year, Ive poured everything I have into making Veralt better. And those efforts are already showing results. He gestured to the people around him as if inviting them to witness the tangible change in their lives. Just recently, weve launched new projects the education program, an apprenticeship scheme, the village rebuilding initiative. And the community kitchen, where every person in Veralt can come and receive a meal, no questions asked, every single day. This, I promise, is only the beginning. Each one of you deserves the same respect, and the same opportunities. And I give you my word that you will have them. As his words echoed over the crowd, a wave of cheers broke out, people raising their fists, voices lifted in raw, unguarded approval. Although all his schemes were good, the community kitchen part got the most cheer. Food was a problem everywhere and even in Verdis, there were a lot of skinny, malnourished people that weren''t able to get one proper meal a day. Kai allowed the sound to roll over him, grounding himself in the energy of the people before him, waiting as they settled back into a reverent hush. He took a breath, knowing the next promise would resonate deeply. Verdis has two iron mines, he said, his tone firm. And from now on, every worker who steps into those mines will have the safety equipment they need. Gone are the days when men and women risked their lives for the citys wealth without basic protection. Henderson stripped that away from you, sent you into the depths unprotected. Ill be changing that. Your safety is as much a priority as the iron we pull from the earth. Another wave of cheers rose, louder this time, and he saw fists pumping in the crowd, peoples faces alight with hope. But he wasnt finished. He held up a hand, and the square hushed once more. And our biggest project, he announced, his voice taking on a tone of anticipation, will be a citywide evaluation. Every single person in Verdis will have the opportunity to be tested, to see if you have the qualities needed to join a new special force a force that will report directly to me. A hush fell, the crowd holding its collective breath. Those selected will receive a fair wage, steady work, and the pride of defending this city alongside me. Im talking about five gold coins per month here, and enough security to your family and your future. Excited murmurs swept through the crowd, people turning to each other in whispers, discussing what he had just said. Kai watched them, knowing that this was the start of something theyd been longing for. Yet, amidst the hopeful faces, he noticed a few hesitant expressions eyes that darted with uncertainty, mouths set in tight lines of doubt. Sensing the undercurrent of fear, he raised his hands once more, his gaze steady and reassuring. Fear not, he began, his voice warm and earnest. Although the testing will be mandatory, no one will have to join the special force if they dont want to. There will be no coercion, no force. Everyone will be treated equally and will simply be given the option to strive for something more in life. This is about opportunity, not obligation. A collective sigh seemed to pass through the crowd, tension easing as Arzan addressed their unspoken concerns directly. He continued, To ensure the smooth administration of our new initiatives, Zorgar will take up the administrative duties. He knows this city inside and out and will be instrumental in implementing our programs effectively. Additionally, one of my trusted knights, Feroy, will be acting under Zorgars guidance. I will also be sending more personnel to make sure I receive news from Verdis every week, keeping me informed and allowing me to respond swiftly to your needs. As he spoke, another roar of approval erupted, more vigorous than before. The peoples enthusiasm seemed to swell, their initial doubts melting away in the face of his clear and compassionate leadership. He took a moment to absorb the renewed energy before continuing. If you have any questions, please come forward to ask them now. I would be happy to address any doubts or concerns you may have. Count Arzan, one of the men walked forward, how will the testing for the special force work? What kind of training will we receive? Kai smiled, appreciating the directness of the question. Excellent question. The testing will be done by a Mage. Nevertheless, no harm or pain will be felt. The training will be comprehensive, covering combat skills, resilience including your physical strength and durability. It will be intense, but nothing you cant handle. Encouraged by the response, another voice chimed in from the back a woman, holding her baby in her hand. A trace of hesitation passed by her eyes before she spoke. What guarantees do we have that you wont abuse the power like Henderson did, Lord Arzan? Arzans expression hardened slightly, a steely resolve in his eyes. Transparency and accountability have always been the cornerstones of my rule. City of Veralt is testimony to what Ive done. So, rather than words, I will show you with my actions. Any more questions? People collectively nodded. The questions continued, so did his responses. As Kai replied to every one of them, he felt the crowd ease up. The answers were clear and sincere, dispelling lingering fears. Even those who had suspected him to be the same or worse as Henderson seemed to look up to him with hope in their eyes. A major reason behind this shift was Hendersons reputation as a tyrant his harsh rule had left deep scars. In contrast, the rumours about Kai recently had been good, and the fact that nobles seldom came out to take questions from commoners made Kais openness all the more refreshing. The atmosphere in the square transformed from one of cautious optimism to vibrant hope, the seeds of a revitalised Verdis firmly taking root in the hearts of its people. Kai clutched his hands together in the end. Together, we will rebuild, we will protect, and we will thrive. Verdis is not just my city it is ours. Let us move forward, united by our shared dreams and unwavering spirit. The crowd erupted in a final, thunderous cheer, the sound echoing through the city streets and into the night sky. Kai stood tall. As the cheers continued, he knew that this moment marked the beginning of a new era for Verdis, one that was being led by him. Over the next few hours, Kai busied himself with the logistics of his plans. He went over blueprints, checked in with foremen, and reviewed the upcoming training schedules with his knights. sea??h th Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. There was satisfaction in the tangible details, the pieces falling into place. But as he considered his resources, he couldnt help but think of Francis. His trusted right hand had proved invaluable in other projects, yet with his responsibilities stretched thin across the territories, Francis had already begun recruiting assistants to manage his workload. Still, the absence was felt. Thankfully, Kai had Zorgar. The man had demonstrated a deep loyalty to Verdis and an affinity for leadership, handling the city with an experienced hand. Kai had been thorough in investigating his background, finding a steady record of fair and effective administration. With Zorgar on the ground, backed by reliable men of Kais own choosing, he could focus his energy on broader concerns, assured that Verdis would be in safe hands. One of his most pressing tasks now was to expand his force, especially with capable Mages and Enforcers. His current cadre was competent, but to secure Verdis fully, he needed more. He planned to send his newly recruited Mages into the city soon, not only to search for any other Enforcers, but also Mages who might have been unaware of their gifts. If he could find a few of them, it would massively help him and his forces for what was about to come. *** By the end of the day, Kai still hadn''t been able to leave for Veralt. What he''d intended to be a swift inspection had turned into an all-day undertaking, ensuring that every detail was laid out and every promise set in motion. Only late that evening did he finally retreat to the castle that Hendrerson used, wrapping up his responsibilities for the day. And by dawn, Kai was on the road again, this time bound for Veralt. The journey was swift and efficient until Princess Amara requested to share his carriage. She dismissed the offer of another, insisting with a certain stubbornness that left him no real choice. He knew the request wasnt random; there were matters she intended to discuss. Besides, rumours were inevitable. Riding together in a single carriage would only add fuel, but Kai no longer cared about gossip. It would spread regardless, and he had larger matters to focus on. As the carriage rumbled along the dirt path, Kai felt Amara''s gaze on him, steady and appraising. Finally, without turning from the view outside the window, he spoke. "Is there something troubling you, Princess?" She hesitated, then her voice came soft and thoughtful. "Nothing troubling. It''s just youre far more competent than I expected." She paused, as if searching for the right words. "I''ve heard of nobles taking over cities, yes, but they often stay aloof. They expect the people to obey simply because they hold the title. Addressing the civilians personally, giving them assurance thats not something normal. Most nobles just wave to the people from their castle walls and expect obedience, a courtesy they feel entitled to." "So you joined me on this journey just to praise me? I think this is the second time now. You did the same after I recounted the events of the beast wave." Amara flushed slightly, crossing her arms with an air of mild defiance. "I don''t give out compliments easily, you know. You should take them when I do. Its proper manners." Kai shrugged, the faintest hint of amusement in his gaze as he looked her over. He couldnt help but let his eyes linger on her chest, where her Mana hearta heart shed nearly lostbeat steadily beneath her travelling dress. At least for now. "And hows your heart been?" he asked, a touch of concern slipping into his otherwise calm voice. "The stitches should start dissolving soon, shouldnt they?" Amara shifted, a bit surprised by his directness. She placed a hand lightly over her chest, as if feeling the rhythm within. "It''s been harder and harder to ignore the pain. Its getting worse, especially if I try to use magic." Kais brow knit. "Youve been trying magic? Thats risky, especially before youve healed properly." She looked down, almost sheepishly. "Sometimes I was just curious. Ive never been able to use it before, and the urge to try has been hard to resist." He sighed, his voice steady but firm. "I get it, but you need to listen. Youre still a patient. Rushing it could make things worse." A silence stretched between them before she sighed, resigned. "I will. At least if you can give me hope that theres a way to heal it for good." Her voice softened, as though the words had taken on a life of their own. "If you can help my rapture truly heal, Count Arzan." Kai studied her, the wheels of his mind turning. "I might have a way. Ive been looking for options since we last spoke, and there may be one possibility a long, risky surgery. It wont be easy, and the recovery could take time." She smiled, a touch of warmth melting her guarded expression. "Then I trust you, Count Arzan. Ill follow your lead." "Good. I dont intend to leave Veralt anytime soon, so we have all the time we need." For the first time, he saw a genuine glimmer of relief in her expression. The carriage rocked gently as they travelled onward, but within it, a quiet understanding settled between them which Kai appreciated. After the long day he has had, he wanted some peaceful silence. *** Flossbor rose slowly, leaning heavily on a twisted staff adorned with silver leaves. His face, carved by time and wisdom, bore deep lines that spoke of centuries of battles and burdens, yet his eyes burned with a youthful intensity that defied his frail frame. The hall quieted as the elf elder raised his hand. Around him, the Great Hall of the Elder Tree thrummed with life. The massive chamber was woven seamlessly from living branches that curved overhead, forming a natural dome covered with thick, emerald-green leaves. Sunlight filtered through the gaps, casting dapples of light onto the council members seated in a circle at the vine-covered table before him. Flowers the colour of moonlight bloomed along the edges, releasing a faint, calming fragrance, a reminder of the Elder Trees protective embrace. Flossbor''s voice, though cracked with age, rang steady and clear, reverberating across the sacred space. "We need the Fatebreaker to leave the human lands and come here. Its the only way to save the world." His gaze swept over the members of the Council of the Five Tribes, taking in the solemn faces seated around himelves who had sacrificed centuries to protect the Elder Tree and the world itself. But now, as the faint signs of the coming calamity cast long shadows over them, uncertainty lingered in their eyes. One of the council members, a tall, stoic elf named Lirian, broke the silence. "I dont believe in this Fatebreaker. Its a myth, Flossbor. We should focus on practical solutions, not stories." Another member nodded in agreement, but the elders gaze turned fierce as he silenced them with another raised hand. "Enough!" he commanded, and the council quieted. "Elder Valeirith herself has foreseen his arrival. He has already begun the fight against the forces of calamity, and the Elder Tree has shown us a path. We cannot ignore this." Seated across from him, a regal, silver-haired elf named Caelith scowled. "But hes a human a mere human. Why would the Elder Tree choose him? Why should we stake our hopes on one of them?" Flossbor''s gaze hardened, his eyes glowing with a quiet fire. "The Elder Tree does not bend to our prejudices, Caelith. It chooses those it deems worthy, regardless of our understanding. He may be human, but he is the Fatebreaker. And if we refuse to call upon him, we will all pay the price for our pride." At that moment, a striking woman seated to the left, her silver hair bound with strands of emerald leaves, slammed her staff down onto the vine-covered table, the thud echoing through the place. The table itself, formed from thick, living vines that twisted and bloomed with soft white flowers, seemed to pulse with the life force of the Elder Tree. She met the other council members'' stares, her gaze sharp and unyielding. She was Valeirith, elven elder of the Leththae tribe. "What if he is a human?" Valeirith demanded, her voice laced with scorn at their hesitation. "A Fatebreaker is still a Fatebreakerone without threads binding him, the only one who can break free of the prophecy. Why should we concern ourselves with race if he is what we believe he is? Or do you think only we elves deserve blessings from the Elder Tree?" Caelith stiffened at her words, his lips pressed into a thin line. "Its not about deserving, Valeirith. Its that we have no assurance hell even help us. We dont know if the Elder Tree means the same to him as it does to us. He might see it as nothing more than an old tree and the prophecy as a mere tale." Valeiriths eyes narrowed. "Hes a Mage Blessed by the Elder Tree since birth. Surely, he knows the value of the Elder Tree and all that it represents. And unless any of you elders have a better idea to face Malfecias twisted forces," she paused, her voice dripping with challenge, "Id like you to enlighten us. Surely, in all your centuries, you have some brilliant plans to stand against a being worshipped by the death incarnate?" Silence fell like a heavy weight, smothering any remaining resistance. The council members shifted in their vine-woven chairs, their eyes downcast as Valeiriths words settled. They had all felt the creeping dread of Malfecias influence, the darkness slowly tainting the lands. Even their wisdom, gathered over countless years, offered no clear path forward/ And every second they wasted, the Elder Tree''s condition grew worse. Flossbor finally nodded, breaking the silence and seeing no objection. "It is decided, then. We will summon the Fatebreaker to our land as our guest. And if he accepts he will be our hope the very centre of our stand against the calamity." The council members exchanged wary glances, but no one argued. Vines hanging from the ceiling draped down like green chandeliers, and the flowers on the table pulsed softly, as if the Elder Tree itself acknowledged the decision. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Also, those who have liked the book and haven''t rated, please do so. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 138. Shadowed History They soon reached Veralt. Their carriages marked their arrival as they rolled past the gates. Crowds gathered along the roads, eyes lighting up with recognition and joy as Count Arzans carriage came into view. Before Kai could process, the people were cheering, some waving with excited faces respect and genuine warmth radiated through them. Even though his visits had become frequent and routine, the joy on their faces as they saw his carriage filled him with warmth as if all his efforts over time hadnt gone unnoticed. He saw how Amara glimmered with wonder as she leaned slightly out of the window, soaking in the sights of Veralt. The city was renovating after the beast wave, and a lot of things were falling back into place. Some houses and roads were better than they had been before. It was visible, and by how people proudly showed their homes and shouted their gratitude, Kai knew the city was slowly recovering. Sarch* The ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Passing the several houses that were fully reconstructed and half-finished wooden structures wrapped in scaffolding, he was met with a rhythmic loud noise of hammers and the synced shouts of workers and merchants through the road. Even in the middle of all that chaos, Amara drew attention. People looked at her curiously as she waved back at the crowd. Her smile was small and hesitant, but nevertheless, it was there. It wouldnt be long before whispers spread, questions forming about the princess beside him. Your city looks good, she said, turning back to him. Her voice was soft, and thoughtful. Kais eyes, sharp yet unreadable, flicked to the scene outside. Does it? he replied. We are still constructing a lot of things. He said, realising that they were drawing closer to the castle. She nodded, glancing once more at the faces in the crowd. I can see that. But the people look excited to see you. I mean it when I say that you are a good lord, Count Arzan. A moment of silence stretched between them, broken only by the clatter of carriage wheels. He nodded, a hint of something unreadable passing over his expression before he turned his gaze ahead. The carriage rolled to a stop before the castle gates. They stepped out of the carriage as the grand doors of the castle opened, revealing Francis, Claire, and a handful of maids standing at attention. Francis bowed deeply as Kai approached, only to pause mid-motion when he noticed the princess by his side. His brows knitted as if he was trying to remember who she was before glancing back at Kai. This is Princess Amara, daughter of King Sullivan and Queen Regina, Kai said with a nod in her direction. She smiled gracefully at Francis who suddenly looked a little pale. She will be staying here for a while. Franciss eyes widened but he quickly masked himself with a bow. The other maids gasped softly before lowering themselves into deep curtsies. Your Highness, Francis said. We are honoured by your presence. Rest assured, you will have every comfort, and I will personally see to it that your stay here is without trouble. Amaras kind gaze swept over them. Thank you. I hope you will take care of me while Im here. Of course, Princess Amara, Francis replied, bowing again. His tone left no doubt that he would mobilise the entire household to meet her needs. Kai turned to Amara, the briefest flicker of concern crossing his eyes. One of the maids will show you to your room. Forgive us if we lack the full regalia you may be accustomed to. Were not used to hosting royalty. Amara shook her head with a soft smile. That wont be a problem, Count Arzan. I thank you for the warm reception, she said, leaning in and speaking the next few words in a whisper. So, when can we start the surgery? His eyes hardened slightly as he thought over all the things he would need for the surgery. Tomorrow. I need tonight to prepare everything, but we will begin first thing in the morning. She nodded, the tension in her shoulders easing. Please, show her the way, Francis ushered a maid, noticing how the conversation had died. One maid walked forward and bowed. Amara looked at Kai once before she followed the maid inside, disappearing into the corridors of the castle. Once she was out of sight, Kais mood shifted, the thought of the upcoming task settling on him like a mantle. He turned to Francis, who was already watching with keen, expectant eyes. Walk with me, he said, the command brooking no argument. I need to explain everything. Franciss face shifted from curiosity to grim understanding as he fell into step beside Kai. They entered the castle, passing wide corridors and servants as they made their way to the main office upstairs. Their boots rang down the quiet wooden floor. Finally, he pushed open the doors to his office by the library and stepped inside. Francis followed closely. After they were both inside, Francis closed the door behind him with a thud and Kai settled onto his chair. Verdis fell easier than expected. Henderson was... less of an obstacle than we initially thought. Killian and the rest of the Enforcers took care of everything and one of them would give you the whole report. Kai said. Once that was over, Princess Amara appeared out of nowhere. It seems she escaped from the capital alone to make the journey and tagged along when she saw our contingent moving towards Verdis. Franciss brows shot up, the lines of his face deepening. Thats sooner than our estimates. Kai nodded at that. Yes. I told you before, I was expecting her next month, once her temporary bindings began to weaken. But it seems she was practising magic on her own. The bindings are barely holding, and if I dont act soon, they will fail entirely. I need to finish healing her tomorrow, though I don''t know if I will be entirely successful. Francis pressed his lips together, eyes narrowing in thought. Do you think shell be able to answer our questions about the Archine Tower and the royal family? A sigh escaped Kai, one that carried the exhaustion of weeks spent on the move, planning, fighting, and negotiating. I dont know, he admitted. But I intend to ask every question I can during and after the surgery. The letters I sent contained only broad inquiries, and I never had time to delve deeper. Weve been juggling too many fires at once. I didnt have time to reply to them. Francis nodded, and a moment of silence passed between them. Kais fingers traced circles around the stack of parchment that were in front of him. Before he could follow it up with his plan for tomorrow, Francis asked, Do you really believe Magus Veridia is controlling Prince Eldric and was behind sending Actra to finish you? Kais eyes darkened as he considered the question. He glanced at the map on the wall, one section marked with the sigils of the royal family and their allies. Its one of our hypotheses. Eldric is not the cunning type. When I met him, he seemed immature, almost desperate for guidance. A prince who leans on others too much is easily manipulated. The beast wavethat might be Lucians work, but he wouldnt act without strong backing, either from the royal family or the Archine Tower. I really doubt he had ways of controlling a mana fiend and we already have gotten hints that something bigger is controlling everything from the shadows. Francis stroked his chin. So it comes down to either a power play within the royal family or Magus Veridias designs. Exactly. And tomorrow, when Amara is ready, well find out just how deep this runs. As he spoke, his mind wandered, moving through memories about the past. Things were so starkly different from the history he knew. The Mad King being incompetent a puppet, even was something that defied every record he had studied. In the annals, he was depicted as ruthless but shrewd, a man whose mind was sharp enough to cleave through enemies without lifting a sword. To see him now, a shadow of that portrayal, filled Kai with doubt. It was as if the stories of old had been polished and twisted. The only explanation that made sense was chilling: the history he knew was wrong. Perhaps every tale of the Mad Kings cunning deeds had been orchestrated from the shadows by someone else, someone who had woven their will into the very fabric of the realms narrative. Who? The question hung in his mind as he thought of every possibility. He needed to know. He recalled his masters voice, stern yet wise, ringing in his ears as if he was back in that small, practice room from his teenage years. That adage seemed to echo louder now. Every page he had read, every decree and battle meticulously chronicled, could be nothing more than curated lies. Thats why someone like Amara was invaluable. She had lived within those walls, and seen what the ink on those parchments had missed. Francis broke his reverie yet again. Do you really think shell answer our questions? She is royalty, after all. There are loyalties even desperation cannot break. Yes, Kai said, the certainty in his voice surprising even him. Amara is different. Shes a princess, yes, but neglected, always on the periphery of power. And its true that shes grateful for me saving her. Nobles loathe being in someones debt, Francis. It grates at their pride. I can leverage that. If the surgery succeeds, shell feel bound to repay me. Franciss brow furrowed as he absorbed the plan. Are you confident, Lord Arzan? Confident you can heal her? Im confident in knowing what needs to be done to heal her heart. But with magic, so much relies on the patient. Shell need to do a lot of the heavy lifting herself. The silence that followed was heavy, but not with doubt. It was the kind of silence that signalled preparation, a breath before plunging into the unknown. By tomorrow, he hoped, they would have a few more answers and fewer shadows obscuring the truth. *** Mana surgeries were an art but a risky one at that. They came in many forms, shapes and sizes, depending on the organ being treated and the level of damage. At the simplest end of the spectrum, there were minor surgeries, like unblocking a mana vein or clearing a buildup of stagnated energy. These were almost routine, simple procedures that even Novice Mages could perform with proper training. The bodys mana flow could be restored with little risk, and the patient would typically recover with minimal disruption to their life. But not all mana surgeries were so benign. When it came to more complex operations, such as repairing damage to the mana brain where ones ability to sense and control mana originated the risks multiplied. The mana brain was far more fragile than most believed, and surgery there was a high-stakes gamble. The precision required was a level of mastery that few possessed, and failure could result in permanent cognitive damage, leaving the patient with impaired magic or, worse, no magic at all. The heart, however, was perhaps the trickiest organ of all. As fickle as it was essential, the heart was the lifeblood of any Mage. During mage duels, the heart was often targeted, and Mages would use all manner of techniques to strike at this vulnerable organ. Even with armour, the heart was prone to damage both external and internal. Armour could shield the physical heart, but there were still ways to target the mana within. A ruptured heart, however, was a different beast altogether. When a heart was ruptured, it meant that the damage wasnt just superficial. The external boundaries were torn, but the internal mana channels the astral part of the heart were split open as well. A Mana heart rupture wasnt just a physical injury; it meant the very core of the Mages life force had been compromised. In a case like that, no ordinary binding or healing spell would suffice. The external part could be repaired, but the astral damage would require a much more difficult procedure, one that demanded complete control over both the physical and astral realms, including her mana circles. Thats where Kais dilemma lay. Even though he could mend the external injuries to Amaras heart, the astral damage required a level of mastery he hadnt attempted in years he would need to enter the very core of her mana to heal her. And that, in itself, was a dangerous and taxing procedure that demanded as much from him as it would from her. That was why, despite everything, he had decided against attempting the surgery in the capital. Not only was the setting less than ideal for such an operation, but Amaras body wasnt ready to handle the strain. He needed her to fully understand the risks before she agreed to go through with it. The next day, he entered her room and prepared to speak frankly with Amara. We will begin the surgery. But I need you to understand the full extent of whats going to happen. Amara tilted her head, listening intently, her eyes wide with anticipation. What will happen, Count Arzan? The question was broad, and he didnt know any way to shorten the answer. He gave a brief description about the mana surgery and why it was so complicated before finally moving to the conclusion. ...The surgery will not be easy. I can repair the external damage to your heart, but the inner astral injuries will require... deeper intervention. Ill need to enter your body, and that could be quite strenuous on you. You have to be prepared. She blinked, her expression flickering through a range of emotions at his words. He wasn''t able to understand all of them, but he noticed her maid, Anya, going pale beside her. So... you will be inside me? Amara asked, her eyes slowly widening. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 139. Fears of mind Kai had always been a person of few words. In his childhood, silence had been a survival skill honed on the unforgiving streets, where speaking out of turn could land you in more trouble than any blade. Even after his master had taken him in, he maintained his cautious nature, observing more than speaking. It wasnt until he started mastering magic and earning respect among peers that he began to understand the true power of words. They could be as sharp and unpredictable as any spell, wielded with care or reckless abandon, capable of causing alliances or misunderstandings with a mere slip. Just like that. Now, standing in front of Princess Amara and her wide-eyed maid Anya, the realisation hit him like a sudden gust of cold wind. He replayed his own words in his mind, catching the unintended implication too late. The princesss cheeks flushed pink, a mixture of confusion and shock twisting her features, while the maids eyes darted between them, torn between horror and curiosity. He cleared his throat, voice steady but urgent. Let me be clearer, he said, holding up a hand as if to stop an oncoming storm. I didnt realise my words could cause a misunderstanding. By being inside you, I mean my consciousness needs to enter your Mana heart in your astral realm where your mana circles converge. In cases of Mana heart ruptures, it damages not only the physical organ but also the astral structure within. To heal it, we need to work from the inside. The tension in the room eased slightly as Amaras expression shifted from bewildered to contemplative. The colour in her cheeks receded as understanding settled in. She glanced at him with an edge of curiousness and the previous expression subsided. Is that even possible? she asked, her voice quieter now. It is, he said in a firm tone. But its not without risk. The unspoken understanding passed between them. Kai thought his words carefully as he continued, There would be complications, obviously. The body needs to be very stable for this type of procedure to work, but I can do it. The challenge is situated in navigating the astral realm its not an easy place to do anything, even under ideal conditions. Id only be able to maintain my presence there for ten, maybe twenty minutes, depending on how stable your body remains. Even then, a significant part of the process will rely on you. Amaras brows knitted with concern. What do you mean by that? Youll understand better once we begin the procedure, Kai said, his tone firm. For now, its important that you know the risks. If complications arise, such as the astral realm taking longer than expected to heal despite my spells, I might be forced out before I can finish. If that happens, your heart could end up in a worse state than it is now. Anya, the princesss maid, gasped, eyes wide with alarm. That sounds far too dangerous. The princesss life could be at risk! Kais gaze hardened as he nodded. Yes, it could be. But theres no other way to repair the damage. If we dont do this, her condition will only continue to deteriorate. I wish there was a safer path, but there isnt. Amara looked at her maid, whose face was a mask of worry. Anya opened her mouth to protest, but Amara raised a hand, silencing her. Determination shone in the princesss eyes as she took a deep breath, steeling herself. No. We came all this way for a reason, she said, her voice trembling but resolute. If I dont go through with this, I wont last much longer anyway. She turned to Kai, her gaze unwavering. Please, start the procedure. Kai nodded, pulling out a small vial with a crystalline, blue liquid that shimmered faintly under the rays of the morning sun coming through the window. It was a concoction hed spent hours perfecting the previous day, carefully measuring each ingredient. If his calculations were correct, it would buy them the time they needed. This is a mana-stabilising potion, he said. His eyes moved to the curious pairs of eyes. Itll put you into a deep, near-sleep state. Once it takes effect, Ill enter your astral soul to begin the procedure. He shifted his gaze to Anya, who stood nearby with worry etched into every line of her face. No matter what happens, dont try to wake her. Even if her body shakes or reacts, let it run its course. Understood? Anya swallowed hard, the colour draining from her face as she nodded. Amara took the vial, turning it in her hands, the light catching the liquids gleam as she studied it with a mix of apprehension and resolve. Without another word, she tipped her head back and drank it down in one go. Sarch* The NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A visible shiver ran through her after ten seconds as the potions effects began to set in. My body feels different, she whispered, her eyes already growing heavy. Thats normal, Kai said softly. Just relax. Close your eyes. Amara obeyed, her body settling into the bed as the tension in her muscles slowly unwound. Kai waited, counting the seconds as her breathing deepened, her eyelids fluttering closed. When he saw her body become limp, he took her hand, feeling the coldness of her fingers against his own. Please, do your best, Anya said, her voice trembling. The princess has suffered so much already. Kais eyes flicked to her, an unspoken promise glinting in them. He didnt want to stress the maid out even though he knew the serious consequences that this process would have. Therefore, like any medical practitioner, he gave his promise. Ill do everything I can, he said, and then, with a steady breath, he gripped Amaras hand tighter and began to murmur an incantation under his breath. The spell he needed to use was called [Astral Intrusion]. Although the name of the spell was mildly evil, it was often used in these procedures, and was one of the easier soul spells to learn. Soul spells were among the most complicated and demanding of magical arts. Kai only knew a few of them, no more than two or three. They werent his specialty; he lacked any real affinity for soul magic. But this one spellthe one required for the surgerywas the one he was confident in. The words of the incantation spilled out, each syllable imbued with mana and pulsing against his very core as it slowly coursed through his veins and into Amara. His consciousness followed the stream of energy, weaving its way through her mana channels and toward the heart. He could feel the spiritual tug as his piece of soul reached the threshold, ready to enter the damaged astral plane. With a final whisper, he pushed his essence forward, a surge of mana propelling him deeper. Suddenly, a force yanked at him, and his vision plunged into darkness. The room, the weight of Amaras hand, even Anyas worried presence all of it disappeared as he was drawn inside her fractured mana heart. *** Kai awoke to a world that felt like the embodiment of death itself an endless, frozen wasteland where the air bit at his skin with a ferocity that made his bones ache. Each breath he took felt like inhaling shards of ice, and the cold wasnt just external; it seemed to seep into his very essence, gnawing at his resolve. The horizon was a disorienting blur of swirling, gaseous white light, pulsing with a ghostly glow that cast long, trembling shadows across the jagged, frost-covered ground. He took a cautious step forward, the ice crackling underfoot in protest. An instinctual shudder ran through him, not just from the chill but from the oppressive lifelessness of this realm. Her astral realm is really dead, he muttered, the words hanging in the freezing air like a condemning whisper. The mere thought that Amara had survived in such a condition of her astral realm shouldve been all due to her willpower. Most Mages would have succumbed long before now. Kai''s eyes rose to the sky, where the only source of warmth resided a massive, golden circle coiled in convoluted patterns, hanging in the void like a silent sentinel. It glowed with a soft, wavering light that barely managed to fend off the suffocating cold. The golden illumination flickered like the last candle in a storm, valiantly refusing to be snuffed out. That was her mana circle. His attention snapped downward as the landscape groaned beneath him, deep fissures tearing through the icy expanse with a sound that was both a hiss and a roar. The fractures branched out like black veins, splitting the very fabric of the realm, and from those cracks, a cold wind surged, carrying with it the echo of something fragile and on the brink of shattering. The wind cut through his cloak, making it snap and whip against his back. The rupture, Kai whispered, the weight of the word sinking like a stone in his chest. The state of her astral realm was far worse than he had imagined. The physical signs had been dire, but this realm splintered, frozen, and dying painted a picture of unavoidable fiasco. If he failed to act, these creeping cracks would soon expand, spreading like poison until her Mana heart and astral core fragmented into oblivion. Two months had been a generous estimate. He pushed forward, each step a battle against the wind and ice that clawed at him as though to drag him down into the void. Just as he approached the largest fracture, a sound, soft and uncertain, broke the desolate silence. He whipped around, heart racing. Amara stood there, her astral form almost luminous against the desolation. Arzan? she whispered, her voice trembling, barely more than a breath and filled with disbelief. Unlike her regal, composed physical self, Amaras astral form was more vulnerable, draped in a simple white cloth that flowed over her like a wisp of mist. The cloth clung loosely to her, moving as if caught in an unseen breeze. Her eyes, wide and uncertain, darted around the desolate expanse as she whispered, Where are we? Kais gaze was steady as he replied, Your astral realm. He pointed toward the large, jagged crack running across the icy ground, the gash in reality that seemed to ooze cold, dark energy. Thats the rupture. Im pretty sure youve been here before, but memories of the astral realm are difficult to hold onto like a dream that slips away as soon as you wake. Amara turned to look at the rupture, her expression tightening as a shiver coursed down her spine. That looks bad. A wry chuckle escaped Kai as he scanned the horizon. It is, he admitted, but believe it or not, thats not our biggest problem here. Before she could ask what he meant, a strangled noise interrupted them. Amara staggered back, her breath catching in her throat as shadows began to rise from the icy ground, limbs flailing and twisting as though each motion caused them pain. Their bodies were an abhorrent fusion of shadow and decaying flesh, slick with a black, tar-like substance that dripped in thick globs, sizzling as it hit the frost beneath them. It clung to their forms like a second skin, seeping from jagged wounds that seemed to open and close of their own accord. Their faces were a nightmare given shape, split and warped in ways that defied anatomy. One creature''s jaw was unhinged, hanging at an unnatural angle with cracked, splintered bone visible beneath the shadowy surface. Teeth like splintered glass jutted out in uneven rows, each one stained with an ichorous sheen that seemed to pulse with a glow. The eye sockets were hollow and empty, but deep within, an ember-like light flickered a sickly, yellow-orange flame that shivered and writhed as if alive. Clawed hands emerged from tangled limbs, fingers elongated and jagged, ending in black, cracked talons that scraped at the ice, leaving deep, angry gouges in their wake. Each movement they made was accompanied by a wet, tearing sound, as if their very existence was pulling apart at the seams. Some had limbs that split and reformed, twitching erratically, as though the energy holding them together was barely sufficient. The smell was palpable even in this astral space a phantom stench of rot and burned ozone that made the air thick and hard to breathe. Their forms rippled with a semi-transparent quality, revealing pulsating veins of dark mana beneath their skin that coiled and throbbed like worms trapped in flesh. When they moved, their bodies convulsed and shuddered. They looked like they were fighting to reach up. One of them lurched forward, its disfigured head tilting at an unnatural angle before emitting a gurgling, otherworldly wail that seemed to resonate inside the skull like a scream made of countless voices, each echo tinged with pain and madness. Amara took several shaky steps back until she felt Kais steadying hand on her shoulder. His grip was firm, anchoring her amidst the growing dread. Her eyes darted to his, searching for reassurance. What are they? she asked, her voice barely a whisper, as one of the shadows let out a bone-chilling screech that echoed across the wasteland. Soul wraiths, Kai said, the word heavy with gravity. His eyes stayed fixed on the abominations clawing their way forward, their grotesque forms dripping with a tar-like substance that hissed against the icy ground. Theyre in everyone. Manifestations of all the negative emotions youve ever felt your fears, shattered dreams, regrets... Everything bad. Kai continued, his tone steady but urgent. But the worst thing about them isnt even how they look. Her voice trembled as she glanced back at him. What is it, then? Without a word, Kai raised his hand, conjuring a small, bright fireball that crackled with intense heat. He hurled it at the nearest wraith, the flames hissing as they collided with the creature. But instead of recoiling or vanishing, the wraith absorbed the fire, the light disappearing into its dark, corrupted form. It howled with renewed fury, lurching toward them as if they didnt even feel it. I cant hurt them, Kai said as he faced Amara. They arent my fears. I have no control over them. Only you do. He let the gravity of his words sink in as the shadows twisted and clawed at the ground, their gnarled faces shifting between expressions of rage and anguish. Amaras mouth fell open, the shock in her eyes deepening into fear. How will I fight them? she asked, her voice thin and unsteady, as if the very idea was too much to grasp. Kai inhaled deeply. By facing your fears, he said. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 140. Facing fears Death had always lingered at the edges of Amaras life like a cold, insidious presence that she could never quite shake. It was a shadow that whispered promises of an end to her suffering, a dark lullaby she had both feared and, in her worst moments, almost longed for. The length of her illness had carved those thoughts into her bones. Yet, with a fierce will that went against the chill pressing around her heart, she had fought. She had wriggled her way through the days, refusing to yield. But this was different. The astral realm was a canvas of stark whites and deep shadows, ethereal yet unwelcoming. Beneath her feet, the ground splintered, veins of cold cracking through the mirrored surface. In the eyes of the soul wraiths that surged toward her, she saw the familiar gleam of death hungry, expectant. They moved like liquid shadows, their forms ever-shifting, the sound of their approach a symphony of whispersdark, and ugly. They wanted her to die, and that was all she could see and feeldeath. Panic gnawed at her insides. She had been so close, so achingly close to feeling alive again, to reclaiming the life that had always seemed out of reach. And now, with the air pressing like ice against her skin, it seemed that all those dreams would shatter alongside the fractured plane beneath her. Amara! A voice cut through the haze, sharp and commanding but also soothing. Arzan. He stood at the periphery of her vision, his presence a beacon of unwavering certainty. The man who had brought her to this placethis bizarre space between reality and magicwas watching her, eyes ablaze with intensity. Dont just stand there! Fight against them. I wont be able to heal your astral realm otherwise. H-How? How am I going to do that? she gasped, the word tasting of desperation. You told me not to use magic! A fleeting smirk crossed his face. Amara was confused for a brief second. Its your realm. You can do anything here. Its just about your conviction. Just hold those wraiths for me. Amaras breath hitched, and she forced herself to nod at Arzan, drawing whatever dregs of courage she had left. His silhouette blurred as he leapt, weaving between the encroaching wraiths fluidly. Threads of mana coiled around his outstretched fingers, bright and searing, each strand crackling like a whip of fire. The beam surged forward, illuminating the darkness, aimed at the gaping tear splitting her realm apart. But Amara couldnt keep watching. The wraiths shrieks stole her attention, the sound of a twisted chorus that burrowed into her mind, dredging up memories she had buried deep. The first wraith lunged, a shape of shifting black mist, hollow eye sockets boring into her. Its voice echoed inside her head, a familiar, venomous chant. She staggered backward, her body trembling as their whispers intensified, multiplying with every step they took. Each word sank into her, cold and sharp as a dagger. Another wraith slithered closer, its mouth stretching wide in a grotesque grin. The words were suffocating. Amaras knees buckled, and she fell to the cracked ground, palms scraping against the icy surface. Fear spread across her skin, a chilling touch that left her paralyzed. The words, so familiar, wrapped around her like chains, constricting tighter with each heartbeat. She shuddered, eyes squeezing shut, surrender crawling through her veins. The darkness crept closer, its breath cold against her neck, its hands reaching out. The temptation to let go, to finally silence the voices and accept the fate they promised, was almost overwhelming. a voice whispered from somewhere deep inside. Amaras shoulders sagged, and for a moment, the fight bled out of her, leaving nothing but hollow exhaustion. She braced for the sting of claws, for the cold finality that would come when they claimed her. But then, amid the cacophony, a different sound cut through; the fierce roar of Arzans mana, splitting the silence and scattering the wraiths whispers like leaves in a storm. The warmth of it kissed her face, sparking something dormant inside her, something raw and bright. Arzans voice thundered through the dark, cutting across the chorus of wraiths. Amara, dont listen to whatever they say! You are a better person than what they say, and this is your moment to prove them wrong. If you dont fight, the consequences will be dire. I believe in you, so believe in yourself! I need it , Amara, please! The words jolted her like a spark to dry tinder. The idea was foreign, almost absurd. No one had ever said those words to her, not her family, not anyone of importanceonly Anya, her maid and confidante. Anya had been a friend, a source of quiet strength, but belief from others? That had never been part of Amaras world. A surge of emotion flooded her chest, equal parts fear and hope. Could she really fight back against the shadows that had haunted her for so long? Those words echoed inside of her. The wraiths were almost upon her, their spectral hands outstretched, eyes gleaming with predatory hunger. She felt the pulse of power deep in her chest and reached for it, a raw, instinctive pull. Water surged from the cracks around her, coalescing into sharp, shimmering spears. With a flick of her wrist, they shot forward, slicing through the wraiths forms. One by one, the twisted figures evaporated into plumes of dark mist, their voices fading into nothingness. But the ground buckled and split further, releasing more abominations, their bodies writhing and morphing as they surged upward. Tentacles tipped with shadowy spikes lashed out, curling toward her throat. Amaras pulse quickened, but this time she didnt flinch. She summoned the power again, and it answeredthis realm was hers, a reflection of her will. Whatever she wanted, she could be. [ she called, though she had never learned the spell. Only seen it around in one of the spell books she had stolen from her brother''s room. Yet, she knew it was possible to cast it here. Chains of water erupted around her, lashing out to trap the wraiths in their grasp. They writhed, shrieking as their dark forms were torn apart by the sheer force of her magic. More emerged, their faces shifting to mimic those she once knew, whispers seeping through the chaos: But each taunt only fanned the flame within her. [ Amaras voice was clear. A wall of water surged forward, edged like a blade, cleaving through the horde with relentless force. She moved, spell after spell manifesting with a thought[ [ each one an echo of her growing strength. The wraiths that slipped past her sights turned toward Arzan, but before they could strike, her magic found them, shattering their bodies before they could touch him. He worked quickly, the fiery light of his mana stitching the cracks in her realm, pouring warmth into her. It spread through her body, a living current, mending not only the realm but the fractures within herself. For the first time, she felt whole, not broken by the voices but free of them. I believe in you. Arzans voice reverberated inside her mind, over and overcutting through all the negative things that were spat at her. But as that thought rooted in her mind, a deep, squawking roar rippled through the air, so powerful that it made the realm shudder. The wraiths shrieking fell silent in an instant, their forms pausing mid-lunge. Then, in a grotesque, synchronised movement, they shifted. A chill ran through Amara, sinking deep into her bones. The tower of wraiths grew, their bodies melding seamlessly into a colossal, writhing figure. Limbs unfolded, stretching out, and a face began to carve itself at the summita face both familiar and foreign. Hollow eyes of black flame stared down at her, piercing and unblinking. Amaras breath caught, and an involuntary shudder rolled through her as she took a stumbling step backwards. Her heart pounded, each beat echoing like thunder in her ears. The features of the monstrous face sharpened, and recognition struck like a lightning bolt. Mother, she whispered, her voice barely more than a breath. Amara! Arzans voice came through, but this time it was distant. She could barely hear what he said next. *** Kais focus was absolute as he worked, weaving threads of searing mana across the gash in Amaras realm. The tear crackled angrily, dark energy trying to resist his mending touch, but he pressed on. Each strand of mana glimmered like molten gold, binding the torn fabric of the realm with meticulous precision. Sweat slicked his brow as the strain built, his jaw clenched tight. Then the roar came a deep, primal sound that shivered through the air and made every hair on Kais neck stand on end. S~ea??h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He turned, eyes wide, just in time to see Amaras form stiffen, her gaze locked on the monstrous being towering before her. A giant wraith, composed of countless smaller ones, stood against the stark backdrop, its shadow swallowing the light around it. For a heartbeat, Kais breath caught as he watched the shock and recognition carve itself onto Amaras face. His brow furrowed, trying to place that expression, that sudden, haunted look. Then she spoke, barely audible but sharp enough to slice through the noise in his mind. Mother. Understanding hit Kai like a hammer. Queen Regina was feared, revered, and in Amaras eyes, a living embodiment of torment. He knew very little about her and had no idea why she was so feared by Amara. But there was no time to dwell on the revelation. The wraith queens colossal fist, shrouded in shadowy mist, began its descent toward Amara. She stood paralyzed, eyes wide and unfocused, rooted to the spot by terror. Amara! Kai shouted, springing forward. Mana surged through him, propelling him across the cracked, shifting ground. He reached her just in time, wrapping an arm around her waist and dragging her out of the fists trajectory. The ground shuddered as the blow struck where shed been standing, fissures spider webbing out from the impact. The monstrous wraith loomed above them, its presence suffocating. But even as it towered over them, Kai noted with relief that its movements were ponderous, almost sluggish. Fearsome, yes, but not as fast as hed feared. Amara shivered against him, eyes wide and unfocused as she murmured, Im sorry Im sorry Amara! Kais voice cut through the din, firm and grounding. He gripped her shoulders and shook her gently, eyes locked onto hers until they flickered with recognition. Whats going on? she whispered, the tremble in her voice betraying the war inside her. That thing, Kai said, glancing back at the wraith, whose dark claws scraped against the edges of the tear, seeking to pull it wider. Its your greatest fear manifesting. These wraiths, they have the power to pull it out and freeze you. But you cant let it. You to defeat her, or everything hereeverything weve worked forwill fall. Amaras gaze shifted to the wraith, her face pale as she shook her head. No, I cant. Its its my mother. I cant fight her. Kais grip tightened, urgency flaring in his eyes. No, shes not. Thats just your fear, Amara. I dont know what your relationship with her is like, but whatever shes sayingits a lie. Thats not you. You have to fight her words. But what if what if it doesnt work? What if she doesnt listen? She never do. Amaras voice wavered, fear creeping back in like an unwelcome tide. She doesnt need to listen, Kai said, the conviction in his tone cutting through the air. You just need to show that you can stand against your fear. You already did it before, Amara. You fought back. Theres no way you cant do it again. Her eyes met his, and something shifted. She wiped her tears angrily as his words seemed to find their place deeper in her mind. The giant wraith snarled, a low, resonant growl, but Kai felt her trembling ease, if only slightly. Amaras breath steadied. I Ill try. Thats all you need to do, Kai said, stepping back as she turned to face the wraith. Now go, or else everything will be for nothing, Kai said, voice edged with desperation. His eyes met hers, and for a moment, he saw the flicker of doubt. But then Amara took a deep, shuddering breath and looked up at the towering wraith. Her fist clenched, knuckles turning white, and though her legs shook visibly, she took a step forward. Kais heart pounded as he watched her. This was itthe moment where everything balanced on the edge of her conviction. The soul wraith turned, its eyes smouldering with dark fire, and released a roar so deep it felt as though the realm itself would shatter under the weight of it. You are useless, the wraith spoke, its voice a venomous echo of Queen Reginas, each syllable dripping with disdain. A child of no use. A child I was better without. One I kept around so you could be of some use when you came of age, but it seems you are only good in death. Kais breath caught, and for a second, doubt slithered into his mind. He knew that words from a parent, even a cruel mockery like this, held an insidious power. He hardly knew his parents, memories that were scattered and dim across two lifetimes. But he knew how deeply a parent could cut, even with silence. But Amara didnt falter. She paused, trembling in the face of the monstrous form, eyes glistening with fear and something morea fragile, rebellious light. Her gaze held steady, and she took another step forward, the ground beneath her feet glowing faintly as she tapped into the essence of her realm. A swirling ball of water began to form in her hands, rippling and shifting like liquid steel. No, Mother, she said, her voice quivering, each word a struggle against the suffocating grip of doubt. Im not useless. And I will prove it to you. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 141. Conquering fears Amaras breath hitched as she inhaled deeply, but the air burned her lungs, causing a sharp pain. Her muscles coiled and tensed, instinctively preparing to flee, yet she remained rooted in place. Before her, her mother loomed in a dark, furious shadow. It wasnt her actual mother, but the presence of her biggest fear wasnt something she couldve ignoredespecially when it made her feel much, much smaller, pressing her very being into the icy ground. Every instinct screamed at Amara to runsomewhere far away if possible. But she knew it wasnt possible; the only way she could escape the storm of her mothers wrath was if she gave up, surrendering to the darkness and her deepest fears. But deep within, a whisper rose above the din of terror. If she ran now, if she turned her back and surrendered to the fear, she would confirm everything her mother had always claimed: that she was weak, incapable, a failure. The countless nights spent battling the doubts, the moments where shed almost shattered under the pressureall would have been for nothing. No, she mouthed, the word slipping out like a promise. Her hands trembled at her sides, but she clenched them into fists, nails biting into her palms until the pain anchored her. She didnt want to die. Not like this, not a story unfinished. A shiver crept up her spine, the icy tendrils of fear mingling with the heat of her decision. Amaras gaze sharpened, locking onto the figure of her mothers eyesunforgiving, cold, and calculating. For too long, she had been the child in the shadows, content to cower, to endure. But now, she wanted more. She wanted a life where she wasnt just surviving, but living, pushing forward on a path she could call her own. A life where she didnt have to fear. Sear?h the n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. And she wasnt alone. Behind her, amidst all the icy chaos, the warmth of healing magic seeped into her skin, knitting wounds closed, steadying her breath. The soft glow outlined his figurethe one who had stood by her, even when she had doubted herself. His belief, unspoken but unwavering, radiated strength. She could almost hear his voice, low and firm, in the quiet, Youre stronger than you think. Amara lifted her chin, resistance sparking in her eyes. Regardless of the loud thunder in her chest like a war drum, she stood tall as she knew her decision was made. The cold voice of the wraith slithered into her ears, wrapping around her like a serpent. it hissed, echoing words that had haunted her for years. The spectral silhouette of her mother stood before her, eyes gleaming with cruel satisfaction. She couldnt let herself falter. Not now. Her fingers twitched, guiding the orb of water mana that pulsed with raw energy, its surface undulating as if alive. At this moment, Amaras silence spoke volumes, the air around her crackling with anticipation. When she finally drew breath, her voice cut through the overwhelming feeling that tried to engulf hersuffocation. No, Mother, Im not useless. Its not my fault I was born as I am. And its not my fault you see me as nothing but a tool to bend. As the words slowly started leaving her lips, she saw something forming behind the shadows. Strong, large and it continuing to grow even larger. They were large chains; chains that symbolised all the words that were thrown at her. They lunged, glistening with lethal intent, but Amara sidestepped with grace, feeling the chill graze her skin as they sliced past. In one fluid motion, she thrust her hands forward, releasing the water bomb with loud yelp. It detonated in a surge of liquid force, crashing into the wraith. For a heartbeat, the realm was silent, suspended in the chaos of impact. Then came the screama sound that pierced bone and soul alike. The wraiths form flickered, shattered shards of its visage swirling before reforming in jagged, uneven patches. The chains flailed desperately, trying to reattach, to ensnare her in their biting grasp. it rasped, voice splintering like shattered glass. Amaras chest heaved, but she stood tall, eyes blazing with opposition. Ill never be your puppet, she declared. The chains shuddered, their motion stuttering as though caught between two truthsone born of the past, and one forged now. With the last vestiges of strength, she yelled. I will break free. She stepped back, casting a quick glance at Arzan, who was busy mending the fractured landscape of her astral realm with gentle waves of healing energy. With each pulse of his magic, a surge of strength filled her veins, reaffirming that she was on the right paththat she could fight against this spectre of her past. You might be my mother, Amara said, her voice unwavering, but you never treated me right. You saw me as a burden, but I am not one. I am beyond you. the wraith shrieked, desperation dripping from its every word. But Amara was already in motion. The water mana surged at her command, coalescing into hundreds of shimmering lances. With a powerful sweep of her arms, she sent the lances hurtling toward the wraith. The air hummed as they streaked forward, piercing through the wraiths form with unerring precision. It let out a keening wail, its large form breaking apart, flickering as it crumbled under the relentless assault. The wraith tried to speak, its fragmented voice straining to reclaim control, to sow doubt. But Amara didnt give it the chance. You are just my fear, she said, eyes blazing. And I am going to win over you. Amaras final attack shattered the wraith, its form crumbling into wisps of dark smoke that dissolved into the void. Silence followed, heavy and deafening, broken only by the shudder of Amaras ragged breathing. The adrenaline that had fueled her moments before seeped away, leaving her limbs weak and trembling. She sank to her knees, the weight of exhaustion pressing down on her like a shroud. Her chest rose and fell with each laboured breath, but before despair could take root, a warm touch anchored her back to the present. A hand rested on her shoulder, firm yet reassuring. She looked up and met Arzans calm, gentle eyes, a smile of pride softening his usually neutral features. You did well, Princess. Its over, he said. Amaras eyes widened, a question forming on her lips before she could stop it. Its... over? Arzan nodded, glancing around the ethereal landscape. Yes. Your astral realm is fixed. She followed his gaze, taking in the realm around her. The once jagged cracks spider webbing through the air were gone, replaced by smooth, unblemished surfaces. The biting chill that had clung to everything had lifted, replaced by a fragile warmth. On the distant horizon, blades of grass pushed through the barren ground, green and hopeful, swaying gently as if to welcome her newfound freedom. Your astral realm tear is sealed, Arzan continued, his tone carrying a quiet assurance. It will begin to heal itself now. Your spirit is strong, Princess Amarait wont take long. Most of your surgery is complete with this. Amara opened her mouth, wanting to voice her gratitude, to express the flood of emotions threatening to spill over. But the words tangled on her tongue, and instead, what escaped was a single, uncertain question. What now? Arzans smile widened, a rare spark of warmth dancing in his eyes. Now? We need to wake up. *** Anya stood at the edge of the sterile room, her hands trembling slightly as her eyes flicked between Princess Amara''s still form and Lord Arzan''s. The minutes seemed to stretch on endlessly. Every passing second felt like a new weight adding onto her already worried heart. It had been nearly twenty minutes since the procedure began, and a cold dread had settled deep in her gut. She couldnt tell. There was no way of knowing if the surgery had succeeded or failed. Princess Amaras pale face told her little. For the first ten minutes, the princess had been groaning softly, muttering incoherent words that Anya couldnt decipher, her voice weak and strained as if she were trying to fight through some unseen force. Blood had trickled from her nose ten minutes earlier, dark and ominous, a sign of how bad it had been. Anya had felt her heart plummet, her hope wavering with the sight, but nownow there was a faint flush returning to Amaras cheeks. The princesss complexion, still fragile, no longer looked as lifeless as before. Anya swallowed, her hands coming together in prayer, silently begging the goddesses above to spare the princess. As she whispered her prayers, the quiet of the room shattered. Both bodies twitched in unison, a jolt that made her breath catch in her throat. Her eyes widened, and without thinking, she rushed closer to the bed, her pulse quickening. Lord Arzans strong arms, once limp, moved slowly to pull princess Amara in closer, instinctively protective, as if he felt her stir. His face, which had been pallid and strained, twitched, his brow furrowing as though he were battling something in his unconscious state. Princesss lips parted, a soft, unintelligible sound slipping from them. Anya froze. The faintest shimmer of colour returned to the princess''s lips. Anyas heart leaped into her throat, her breath coming in short gasps. Both bodies jerked again, this time more violently. Lord Arzans grip tightened around the princess, and a low groan escaped his lips, his eyes flickering open for the briefest moment before fluttering shut once more. Anyas eyes filled with tears, her hands clasped tighter as her voice, barely a whisper, echoed her silent prayer. The next thing she knew, eyes fluttered open, and at once, Lord Arzan awoke, his head throbbing as he blinked against the dim light. His eyes, still heavy with the fog of unconsciousness, scanned the room slowly. He groaned, his hand coming up to his forehead as if trying to make sense of what had happened. Anya moved toward him, her concern clear in her eyes. Lord Arzan, she asked, her voice filled with urgency, What happened? Is Princess Amara... okay? Before he could respond, princess Amaras voicesoft, shakycut through the silence. She stirred beside him, her wide eyes finding his form beside her. She blinked, confused, then turned to Anya. And then, as if some invisible dam inside her had broken, tears began to fall, slowly at first, before they flowed freely down her pale cheeks. Anyas heart skipped a beat, and she rushed to the princesss side. Princess Amara, are you alright? she asked, her hands hovering, unsure whether to touch her or reach for something to ease her pain. Should I bring some medicine? Are you in pain? She shook her head, her face softening as she met Anyas gaze. Anya, its not like that, she whispered, her voice catching in her throat. Im healed. Anya blinked, her mind struggling to grasp the meaning of those words. Healed? she echoed, almost in disbelief. Youre... healed? Princess nodded slowly, her tears now drying as a faint smile tugged at her lips. The exhaustion and fear had not yet left her entirely, but there was a relief in her expressionone that Anya hadnt dared to hope for. Lord Arzan, now standing beside them, answered for the princess. Yes, he confirmed, his gaze fixed on Amara. Shes healed. You dont have to worry about it now, your prayers worked. Thank Goddess Lumaris! Thank you so much! Anyas voice strained in the end as her eyes filled with tears. She looked up towards Lord Arzan, the man who had healed the princess with an unwavering gaze. Is it permanent this time then? Lord Arzan nodded at that. Her astral realm is fixed. Well give it two days to stabilise, and then we can perform the external surgery. That one will be far less complicated, and once its done, shell be as good as any Mage. Anyas heart soared with the relief in Lord Arzans words, and she turned her gaze to the princess, searching her face for any sign of doubt. Is that true? she asked softly. She nodded again, more firmly this time. Yes, she said, a new strength in her voice. I already feel better. The pain... its gone. The pressure inside me is gone. Anya smiled broadly through her tears, a weight lifting from her chest. Her hands moved to clasp together in gratitude, though she wasnt sure to whomLord Arzan, the goddess, or just the fates for this miracle. Her thoughts were interrupted soon by Princess Amara, who wiped away the last of her tears, her eyes finding Lord Arzans as she slowly sat up, her movements a little slow. Thank you, she said, her voice quiet but filled with emotion. Thank you for this, Count Arzan. You dont realise it, but youve given me a boon. Youve done far more for me than anyone else ever has. Ill never be able to repay you for this. Lord Arzan, his posture relaxed but still with a quiet dignity, simply nodded, his gaze meeting hers with a steady, thoughtful look. You dont need to repay me, Princess. I did what was necessary. What was right. Princess Amara gazed at him for a moment, her expression softening as she studied him, a new respect blooming in her eyes, along with a trace of something deepersomething that Anya couldnt quite place, but she felt it in the air between them. Anya, still a little in awe of the entire situation, remained quiet, watching as Lord Arzan spoke. "Actually I think you will be able to pay me back." Princess Amara, who had just started to settle back into the bed, blinked in confusion at his words. Her brow furrowed slightly, and she leaned forward a bit. How? she asked, though the sincerity in her tone made it clear she would do anything within her power to repay him. "If theres anything you needanything at allyou can just tell me. Ill make sure to do it. If its possible, Ill make it happen. And even if its not, Ill do everything I can to succeed." Lord Arzans smile widened just a touch, his gaze softening as he regarded her, almost as if savouring the moment before speaking. No, its not a treasure or anything like that. What I need are answers. I have a few questions for you, Princess. Particularly about your mother... Queen Regina. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 142. Figurehead Kai stood motionless atop the castles rooftop, feeling the calmness of the breeze that tugged at the edges of his cloak. The city was definitely coming together, so lively and energetic, even at night. The lanterns, the laughter, the commands, the noise of the hammerall sights and sounds that usually bought him a sense of pride, today, however, they might as well have been echoes from another world. His eyes scanned the expanse as he usually didto see what goes on behind the castle gates. Yet, the warmth that naturally crept into his chest when he saw the people failed to ignite. It was as if a shadow had crept over him. Yesterdays events replayed in his mind, relentless and vivid. The astral realm had revealed more than he had bargained for. The image of Queen Regina, towering and fearsome, etched into the very essence of Amaras deepest fears, had been a revelation that left him with more questions than answers. sea??h th novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai''s jaw tightened, frustration building beneath his calm exterior. He had gained slivers of understanding, yes, but it felt like grasping at smoke. Until he confronted Amara and heard the truth from her own lips, the puzzle would remain incomplete. His assumptions would be just thatassumptions. Fortunately, she had agreed to give him the answers, but he hadnt asked them right away. His concern for her well-being had compelled him to request that she rest until she felt better physically. They had agreed to meet on the rooftop to discuss the matters she had promised, and Kai knew this was for the best, as it would offer more privacy. Yet, as the minutes stretched into an hour, the hope for her arrival felt like it was being crushed into fragments with each passing second. Kais fingers drummed restlessly against the stone ledge, the rhythmic tap-tap mirroring the rapid thrum of his heart. The castles hum blurred into a meaningless drone as he glanced at the empty space beside him. His mind raced with possibilities. Count Arzan. Kai turned to see Amara approaching. She moved with deliberate steps, dressed in plain, unadorned clothes that looked almost out of place for her stature. A simple grey tunic and dark trousers hugged her slender frame, giving her an unassuming appearance. Anya was notably absent. Kai inclined his head respectfully as she came to stand beside him. Amaras eyes swept over the rooftop and towards the scenery in front of them before she spoke, her voice tinged with quiet regret. Im sorry to make you wait. I got lost on the way here and had to ask a maid to show me around. Its not a big deal, Kai replied, his gaze shifting to her face. The pallor that had once defined her features was fading, replaced by a healthier glow. He realised, with a touch of surprise, that he hadnt found her particularly striking when they first met. But now, she was regaining the beauty she had lost to her ailments. Have you been feeling better? he asked, the concern in his tone unmistakable. Yes, Amara said, a small, genuine smile appearing. The pain has lessened, and Ive been sleeping much better. I believe after the external surgery, I will be all good. Kai nodded. Yes, that will be particularly simple. But before that, I wanted to Amaras gaze sharpened, her voice cutting through the silence. I know. You have questions about my mother, but I have questions of my own first. Kais brow creased as confusion flickered across his face. He nodded. Go on. He placed both of his hands in front of him and waited for Amara to continue with whatever she had on her mind. Your questions about my mother, she began, eyes searching his, are they because of what you saw in the astral realm, or is there another reason? Kai nodded at the question, his mind racing with all the reasons behind what he was about to ask her. The pause stretched on for several more seconds before he finally decided to respond. A bit of both, he admitted. He found himself carefully measuring his words when he responded. Ive had questions for a long time. What I saw in the astral realmit only deepened them. Amaras lips quirked in an almost knowing way. Is that why youve tried to send letters, asking subtly about the royal family and the capital? Kai shifted, leaning onto the railing. The night air seemed thicker now, or it was just his intentions. He wasnt surprised she had pieced it together; she had always been observant. Many nobles had probably sought her out for similar reasons, though none with the persistence he had shownand none with the same success. Kai exhaled slowly, a hint of tension threading through his posture. "Yes," he said, the admission steady yet tinged with regret. "Im sorry if that hurt you, but I didnt see any other way." Amaras eyes softened as she shook her head, the movement gentle, almost resigned. "Its alright. I never expected you to help me without seeking something in return." A small, genuine smile curved Kais lips. His gaze found hers, earnest and unwavering. She couldnt be more wrong about that. "I would have helped regardless. I wouldnt have saved your life back then otherwise. I wasn''t at the ball to make connections and hadn''t known about your illness before." He paused, the weight of his words settling between them. "But yes, I thought this might be my only path to answers." Her eyes studied him, the hardness in them fading as her expression lightened. "Is that so?" A smile ghosted her lips, delicate and fleeting. "That makes me feel better." She turned her gaze to the horizon, blinking away her thoughts. "Actually, I hope this is the last time we deal with each other like that." Kais brow arched, curiosity sparking in his expression. "What do you mean?" Amara''s tongue swept over her lips, moistening them. "I dont want our relationship to be one of transactions. Ive seen it too many timesthe nobles who rally behind my brother, their loyalty a mere bargain. They stay close as long as theres something to gain, but if he faltered especially at the game of crown..." She didnt finish, but the unspoken end hung heavy in the air. "I dont want that for us." Kais brows knitted together at her words, understanding where she came from. But again, almost all royal affairs were similartransactional at its finest. What sort of relationship do you want between us? Amaras gaze drifted downward, the silence stretching as if she weighed her answer carefully. Finally, a light sigh escaped her, and she met his eyes. Why dont we start with friends? Her lips quirked slightly before she added, Either way, I think were straying from the point. You have questions, and Ill answer them. But after this, I want no hidden motives between us. Kais expression softened as he nodded, the unguarded sincerity in her voice resonating with him. Alright. If thats what you want. His eyes lifted to the open sky, the cool breeze brushing against his face as he took a moment to collect his thoughts. Is Queen Regina the one controlling your brother? Is it true that hes just a figurehead, and she''s the real kingmaker behind all of this, trying to use him as a puppet to fulfil her own desires? Amaras response was immediate, no hesitation or uncertainty. Yes, youre right. Did you piece that together from what I said in the astral realm? Kais eyes darkened, the memory surfacing in fragments. Yes, but I had my suspicions since I first met him back in Hermil. His gaze shifted to meet hers, searching for understanding. He was nothing like I expected. Not the cunning prince I had prepared myself forhe was... simple." A rueful smile touched Amaras lips. My brother never had a reputation for being shrewd. Competent? Perhaps he might have been, if not for our mother. He does what she commands, exactly how she dictates. He has no will of his own. Her voice softened, an almost imperceptible tremor betraying a deeper hurt. Part of me believes he wishes for it, but he cant. Not with her. Kais eyes narrowed, questions bubbling beneath the surface. How is she able to command such power? Is she a Mage? Amaras eyes narrowed, a glimmer of something unreadable crossing her face. She shifted her weight, crossing her arms as she leaned back. Actually, no, she said, voice laced with a strange certainty. Shes not a Mage. A lot of people think she is, but from what I know, shes not. She glanced away briefly, as if weighing the weight of her next words. But... I dont know. Shes more terrifying than any Mage Ive ever known." The statement hit Kai like a well-placed blow. His mind churned, piecing together fragments of information and implications. If he was right, if Queen Regina really was the puppeteer orchestrating events from the shadows, then her control likely extended to Archine Tower as well. It would fit; everyone knew the Tower supported the first prince. Even the history books whispered about how the Mages had stood behind the Mad King, bolstering his rise and reign. A shiver traced down his spine. The thought settled uncomfortably. He turned toward Amara, hesitation flickering in his eyes before he spoke. Do you know if your mother holds any enmity toward House Kellius? Amaras brow lifted, genuine surprise etched into her features. No, she said slowly, searching for his expression. I dont think so. Duke Lucian Kellius is part of my brothers alliance, one of its leading figures. I dont believe my mother has any reason to bear a grudge against your house. Kai clenched his jaw, the gears in his mind grinding as he considered the next question. What about me? The question hung in the air, taut and uncertain. Her eyes narrowed slightly, studying him. You? She paused, as if trying to recall some lost detail. I dont know. I dont think youve ever crossed paths with my mother, have you, Count Arzan? No, I havent, Kai said, a frown tugging at his features. And thats why its so strange. Amara tilted her head, a shadow of confusion in her eyes. What is? Kai took a deep breath, the weight of the secret pressing on his chest. He exhaled slowly, deciding it was time to come clean; there was no reason for him to hide it anymore. Last year, someone from Archine Tower tried to assassinate me. Her eyes widened, and for a moment, the world seemed to still. I killed the Mage, he continued, voice steady despite the storm brewing within him. Thats why I was summoned to the capital for interrogation. But heres the part that matters: that Mage had orders orders from someone within Archine Tower. I believe Magus Verdia knows who it is, or worse, she might be the one behind it. If not, they would have uncovered the traitor by now. Amaras lips parted, the realisation dawning on her slowly, like the first rays of dawn breaking the horizon. And since Archine Tower supports the first prince, Kai added, his gaze sharpening, and hes nothing more than a puppet controlled by your mother You suspect my mother wants to kill you? she interrupted, her voice barely more than a whisper. Kai nodded in confirmation. A heavy silence fell between them, neither speaking as the weight of his response lingered in the air. Amaras eyes darted away, her mind seemed to working through the pieces of the puzzle, trying to make sense of it all. After what seemed like an eternity, she broke the quiet. Are you sure? she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Kais gaze hardened, the answer clear in his mind. Its a hypothesis, he said slowly, but its the most potent one I have. Im certain theyll try again, and I need to know why. What reason might there be. Amara fell silent again, her brow furrowed in deep thought. The wind whispered past them, ruffling the strands of her hair, but neither of them moved. Finally, Amara spoke again, her voice soft, almost hesitant. Count Arzan, she began, her eyes narrowing as she studied him. Your mother... she was the Frost Queen, right? Kai nodded, his expression unreadable, but he saw the shift in her eyes. They were no longer filled with just confusion, but something elsesomething deeper. Slowly, her features seemed to settle, as if she had finally arrived at some conclusion. I believe there might be one reason why, she said, voice steady now. She looked him straight in the eyes. Count Arzan... you actually might have a claim to the throne. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 143. Claim to throne A loud, full-blown laugh almost escaped Kais lips at the blasphemous words. Instead, he staredhis eyes widened as they locked onto Amara''s, searching for the faintest sign of jest. But her expression remained stoic, hard, and unyieldingly serious. He waited, giving her a few moments to retract the absurd statement, but she simply held his gaze, awaiting his response. What do you mean? Kais voice was calm, and measuredbetraying none of the turmoil her claim had sparked within him. He tilted his head slightly. Im no prince, he added, as though the truth of it should end the conversation. A subtle smile tugged at the corner of her lips. Was it amusement at his reaction, or something else? Yes, you are not, she replied smoothly. But neither was Vacerous. Kai frowned at the name. Have you heard of him? she asked, her voice steady. The name stirred something. He had read it before. But where? Kais mind raced, sifting through countless records hed pored over since taking on the mantle of Arzan. The dusty tomes and scrolls of the librarys archives had been filled with endless, mundane details of history. And then, like a blade piercing through fog, it clicked. Your ancestor, he said finally. Amara nodded, the faint smile lingering on her lips. The founder of the Lancephil Kingdom. My great-great-grandfather. A fourth circle Mage. There''s a story of his ascension to the throne, one lost to time, she said, her tone softening. Its not told to commoners anymorenot even to most nobles. Too many years have passed, and the truth faded into obscurity. But the royal family never forgot. They remember the purest version of what happened when Vacerous founded the kingdom. She paused, her gaze steady, as though gauging Kais reaction. Continue, Kai urged. Amaras lips parted, her voice taking on a storytellers cadence. Well, he wasnt a king or a prince. He was a duke of the Raksails Kingdom and the general of its army. A close friend of its last kingEze. It was an era of bloodbeast waves raging across the lands, countless battles, and kingdoms fighting for survival. Vacerous and King Eze were no different, waging war against the beasts together. All together, they killed hundreds of them. Her voice softened, tinged with sorrow. But during one of those battles, King Eze fell. A young king, barely half a decade into his rule. From all accounts, he was an idealista man of good intentions. His death left a power vacuum, and the two princes he left behind were less than capable. Shrewd, greedy, and wholly unfit to rule. Kai leaned forward slightly, drawn into the story. What happened next? he asked. Amaras eyes gleamed, and the corners of her lips curved upward as though savouring the story. Vacerous devised a plana bold, audacious plan to take over the throne. This wasnt some spur-of-the-moment decision; it was meticulous, calculated. He had the backing of several key nobles, but the true turning point came during his battles against the beasts. She paused for effect before continuing. After slaying a Grade 6 beastone of the most dangerous of its timeVacerous was gifted a medallion by King Eze. This wasnt just a token. It came with a promise: one wish, any wish, and the king would grant it. Kais brow furrowed. He used it? Amara nodded. He used it. The medallion wasnt meant to be used for something like this, and Vacerous knew it. But desperate times call for desperate measures. He invoked the medallion to challenge the succession, staking his claim to the throne. As you can imagine, Count Arzan, it didnt go unchallenged. Her expression hardened, her voice dropping a note. The two princes, enraged by his audacity, rallied their forces. The moment the beast waves subsided, a civil war erupted. "Vacerous won it. He founded the Lancephil Kingdom and named it after his surname. She paused briefly, shrugging as if to downplay the gravity of her words. Of course, there are records. Some claim he challenged two tyrannical princes when he saw their cruelty. Others say the king himself granted him the throne. But the truth? Vacerous exploited a loophole, and it worked out well. Even if he cared for the people, he too wanted the throne and wouldn''t have agreed to the nobles supporting him otherwise. Kai nodded slowly, absorbing the tale. Vacerous had seen an opportunity and seized it with both hands. The man didnt sound ordinaryespecially with the sheer number of beasts hed foughtbut Kai voiced his thoughts aloud, The story. What connection do I have with it? Amaras eyes locked onto his, her gaze intense. Everything. A sigh escaped her lips as she turned, gripping the edges of the stone ledge. The shift in her demeanour made Kais chest tighten. There was morethere was. Your mother, Amara began softly, died with a fractured Mana heart after giving birth to you. That injury wasnt random as you should knowit happened during her final battle with an Grade 8 behemoth. She glanced over her shoulder, her voice hardening. Thats no small feat. Her strength and bravery earned her admiration, even from King Sullivan. He recognized her achievements and, as a reward, granted her the same medallion Vacerous once held with the wish attached. Kais breath caught as her words settled into place. A wish he murmured. Passed down through her kin. Amara nodded. Exactly. Her gaze turned distant, as if sifting through old memories. From what I know, my mother and yours didnt get along. My mother once proposed a partnershipno, and your mother outright rejected it. That rejection sparked a grudge, one my mother never let go of. She paused, her voice growing colder. And now that youre of age, with the competition for the throne underway, she sees you as a threat. A variable that could upset her plans for my brother. Kai stared at her, his mind storming at her words. His mother. The medallion. The grudge. He struggled to piece the implications together. His frown deepened, his thoughts tangling as new questions arose. But something didnt add up. Why would King Sullivan knowingly grant such power to Valkyrie, knowing full well her descendants might challenge his lineage? A medallion with that level of significance wasnt gifted without foresight. Kai didn''t know that, but as he thought more about the medallion, something struck him. I dont have the medallion right now. Amaras gaze snapped back to him, her face painted with a question mark that spoke volumes. You dont? Kai shook his head. I dont. I dont recall any medallion among my belongings, and until now, I was unaware of its significance. Her brows knitted together, the wheels of thought visibly turning. I wonder why the previous Duke Kellius hid it from youor for you. Her words hung in the air, heavy with speculation. Though her eyes were on him, they seemed distant, lost in thought. Maybe he didnt want you to get involved, didnt want you to realize what you could beespecially since you suffered from Mana vein blockage as you said. Kai mulled over her words and gave a slow nod. Maybe. A moment of silence stretched between them, thoughtful and thick with unspoken questions. Different threads of possibility tugged at Kais mind, but none seemed solid enough to grasp. Letting out a quiet breath through his nose, he nodded again, accepting it all. Thank you for explaining this. It answered a lot of questions I didnt even know I had. Amara shifted awkwardly, her fingers tracing lazy circles on her forearm. I should be sorry. I sorry, Count Arzan. Why? Kai asked, his brow lifting. Because of my mother and my brother. Youve had to go through so much because of them. Her voice wavered slightly, as though wrestling with the weight of her words. I cant even form the right apology. Somehow, it all feels so insufficient. You dont have to apologize, Princess Amara. None of this is your fault. Kais tone was firm and kind. He didnt want her to apologise, not at all. He understood that she wasn''t the same person as her mother and even feared her like a calamity. Her expression didnt changestill marred with guilt. He continued, Youre different from them, and far removed from their schemes. Amara nodded slowly, her gaze drifting toward the sprawling castle grounds below. The chaos of the moment seemed to have dissipated, replaced by a stillness Kai hadnt noticed until now. Even in the silence, her presence was oddly peaceful. Count Arzan, she broke the silence, her voice softer. If you find the medallion what will you do? What will I do? he echoed. Will you fight for the throne? Im not saying you should I dont know, Kai interrupted, his voice steady. I need time to process everything. To come to terms with the fact that Ive inherited something like this. He paused, exhaling slowly. But if I decide to fight for the throne, it wont be a decision I make alone. Im far beyond standing alone now after all. *** The dark blue canvas of the sky stretched infinitely, little pearly dots winking at her with a rhythm as erratic as her thoughts. The moon hung low, casting a pale glow that softened the edges of the world, but the peace of the night only seemed to amplify the chaos in her mind. Questions that had bothered her for a long time swirled inside her mind once again. Raven sighed, her fingers idly brushing against the string of her bow, the polished surface cool under her touch. Behind her, the steady scrap of metal on stone broke the silence. What are you looking at? Goraks gruff voice carried over the rhythmic sound of one of his spare swords sliding over the whetstone. The moon and the stars, she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She meant it. The night had always brought her a sense of stillness, but stillness often made room for the thoughts she tried to bury. Ah, Gorak muttered, setting the sword aside with a metallic clang. He shifted his weight and glanced at her. Any thoughts worth sharing? Raven nodded slowly, her gaze never leaving the sky. I was just thinking about everything thats happened since we got here. Its been a ride. She paused, the weight of unspoken things hanging in the cool air. Even the whole idea of forming a guild. Adventurers its a strong name, I like it better than mercenaries, but I dont know. She trailed off, the words spilling out with the hope that saying them aloud might lighten their burden. You dont know what? Gorak prompted, leaning forward slightly, his calloused hands resting on his knees. I dont know if this is my purpose, she admitted, the words tasting bitter yet relieving at once. Her fingers tightened around the bow. The bow, the arrows, the journeyit all feels like its leading somewhere, but where? She let out a bitter laugh. You know why I left my tribe, right? I wanted to explore the world, to be more than just one of many, to find that made me special. Leaving felt like the first step. I thought maybe out here, Id find what I was meant to do. My Her voice faltered, and the faint whistle of the wind filled the pause. Ive grown stronger. Ive achieved things. But I still dont feel it, that sense of accomplishment. Like Im Goraks silence felt like an invitation to keep going, but the trance was broken by his sudden burst of laughter. Purpose, huh? He shook his head, grinning as he leaned back. I dont know about all that, but I know Lord Arzan pays well. Good coin, good food, and some responsibilitygives me enough reason to wake up every day. It works for me. Raven didnt respond immediately, letting the silence stretch again as she turned her gaze back to the moon. The quiet didnt feel peaceful this time. It felt hollow. This wasnt She didnt have the words to explain why, but her heart felt ita restless yearning, an itch beneath her skin. Something more was out there, waiting for her. She didnt know what, or when it would happen. But she did know one thing. That gnawing questionwasnt a sign of failure. It was a sign that she was made for more. A soft, green luminescent light swirled around Raven, the wisp flickering in the quiet night, always understanding her in ways that nothing else seemed to. Her spirit was sometimes the only thing that felt real, the only companion in a world full of uncertainty. she thought, her fingers grazing the edge of her bow absentmindedly. But before she could even finish the thought, something caught her eyesomething that made her forget the comforting glow of the wisp. The stars. A blink. A falling. One after another, the distant lights of the heavens streaked across the sky, casting long, brilliant lines of white against the inky blackness. Ravens breath hitched in her chest, a sharp gasp escaping her as her hand instinctively moved to clutch her heart. They were falling towards her. The shock rooted her to the earth. Her entire body froze, caught in the brilliant cascade of light. The stars, once so distant and untouchable, were now descending like burning jewels, brighter than anything she had ever seen. Her body locked, her mind racing but unable to move, and deep down, a part of her knewthe outcome of whatever was happening was already sealed. There was no way to stop it. Millions of lights flooded around her, a torrent of white that enveloped her in a soft, otherworldly glow. Slowly, painfully slowly, the lights began to shape into something more. First, the head. A crown-like glow formed, a smooth curve of light. Then, the body. It solidified, its outline sharp against the darkness. A hunched person. The features started to take shape, familiar but distant as if they belonged to another lifesilver eyes. She knew who that was immediately. Elder Valeirith Ravens whisper barely escaped her lips, her eyes wide with disbelief, reflecting what was in front of her. The figure of her tribe''s leader stood there, as real as the stars themselves. Her mind struggled to comprehend. If she didnt know better, shed have let her mouth hang open, her jaw slack with the shock of it all. But she knew. Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Raven My child, your purpose for the survival of the world has been decided. The words hit her in her chest. Her breath caught again, lower this time, as the figures voice echoed in her mind, carrying an unspoken urgency that rattled her core. Lead the Fatebreaker to us If not, everything will fall into ruins. Hes close to you, the man you work for. The stars, once gathered in the shape of the elder, began to dissipate, their glow fading as the winds swept them upward, returning them to the heavens. The vision was gone, but its presence remained, heavy and imprinted in her chest. She understood. This was no mere visionit was a message. Her limbs, once locked in place due to the shock, gave way. She stumbled back, her heart racing, her mind struggling to make sense of the words that had just shattered the peace of the night. Goraks rough hands caught her before she could fall, his voice full of concern as he steadied her. Are you okay? Raven blinked rapidly, trying to clear the fog of shock from her mind. She slowly shook her head, still grasping at the remnants of the vision. My purpose she breathed out, I just found it. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 144. Fatebreaker Kai sighed, running a hand through his hair as he slumped onto the bed. He felt frustrated as he had spent most of his time rummaging through Arzans belongings. The room was in complete disarrayclothes strewn across the floor, drawers left half-open, and his diary lying haphazardly on the desk. He stared at the wardrobe, its wooden drawers hanging ajar, as though mocking his efforts. Hours of relentless searching had turned up nothing. The medallion. His gaze wandered, and his thoughts pulled him back to those chaotic first days when he had become Arzan. Even then, he''d rummaged through every corner of his room, every chest, every compartment, searching for answers about his new identity. The diary had been his only find, a cryptic map of regrets and memories written in Arzan''s hand. He''d clung to it, dissected its contents, hoping it held some hidden clue. Now, he had read it again, scouring every word, hoping for something he''d overlooked. There was no mention of a medallionnot even a hint. Kai leaned back and rubbed his temples, speaking aloud to fill the silence. "If Arzan knew of the medallion, theres no way he wouldve left it behind. Not at the Duke mansion. Not anywhere." There was a slim chance Lucian had taken it, but the logic didnt hold. If Lucian possessed it, Regina wouldnt be after him with such fervor. And from what Amara had shared, simply being the rightful heir to the medallion wasnt enough. Without it in hand, he couldnt assert its power. The nobles could reject his claim outright, ignoring any request he made. They wouldnt let him speak another word without proper evidence to his claim. He exhaled sharply and let his eyes drift back to the cluttered desk as his thoughts churned. He had already decided to speak with Killian about it, though he doubted the knight knew anything. Back at the Duke mansion, Killians standing hadnt been strong enough to grant him access to something so critical. Still, it was one of the few leads he had. His options were narrowing by the time, and with them, the fragile stability of his growing influence. Though his search had yielded no tangible results, a thought lingered in the back of Kais minda hunch that refused to be dismissed. Valkyries inheritance. It had intrigued him ever since he first learned of its existence. A Magus inheritance was no trivial matter; it was a legacy of power, knowledge, and artefacts. When hed claimed to have become a Mage through it, he had lieda convenient cover story. But deep down, he had reason to believe that the medallion might be tied to this inheritance. The problem, however, was that he had no idea where Valkyries inheritance was located. It wasnt in the Dukes mansionof that, he was certain. If it were, Lucian would have claimed it long ago. No, it had to be elsewhere. Somewhere hidden. Somewhere forgotten.He asked the same question, again. Fortunately, he had a feeling that he was close to finding it. He didnt know how, but he knew. His focus shifted inward, to the cold,freezing sensation that pulsed faintly in his Mana heartthe third and final primary affinity he had awakened in this life. His ice affinity. Alongside it came a startling revelation: the remnants of his mothers consciousness lingered within Arzans heart. How such a fragment of her soul had survived his transmigration, let alone endured his complete takeover of Arzans body, was beyond his understanding. But he didnt care. What mattered was that it was still therea connection to a past that wasnt entirely his, yet held answers he desperately needed. Over the past weeks, as his control over his ice affinity had sharpened, so too had his awareness of that consciousness. The image of a womana faint, hazy visionhad begun to grow clearer in his mind. She was regal, commanding, yet gentle, her eyes filled with sorrow, wisdom and love. Kai closed his eyes and focused. He let his mana flow through his heart, allowing the icy sensation to spread through him. The cold was sharp and biting, yet familiar, like an old memory coming to life. He honed in on the fragment of consciousness, willing it to come forward. And then, out of nowhere, it appeared. The silhouette of a woman with flowing white hair appeared before him, her form radiant and ethereal, like a fragment of light trapped in frost. Her gaze bore into him, her bright smile warm yet laced with an undeniable sense of power. "My heir," she said, her voice soft but resonating with authority, freezing Kai in place. For a moment, he simply stared, overwhelmed by the sheer presence of the remnant. The icy aura surrounding her seeped into the air, sending shivers down his spine. Snapping out of his stupor, he steadied his breath and forced himself to speak. "The inheritance," Kai said, his voice firm despite the weight pressing down on him. "Where is it?" The woman tilted her head slightly, her smile deepening, but there was no answernot the one he wanted. Instead, her lips parted, and she said softly, "Its not the time. You arent ready yet." Her words sent a jolt of frustration through him. "What do you mean?" he pressed, but before he could ask more, her form began to waver, like mist dissolving in the sunlight. "Wait!" Kai called, stepping forward, but she was gone, fading into the cold stillness of his Mana heart. A wave of exhaustion slammed into him, as though the brief interaction had drained what little strength he had left. He stumbled backward, barely managing to sit on the bed as his breaths came shallow and quick. Sprawled out, he muttered to himself, "It says the same thing every time. When will it be the right time? Do I have to break through to the next rank just to get a clue?" The questions gnawed at his mind, circling endlessly, but no answers came. Instead, an overwhelming heaviness began to creep into his thoughts. Drowsiness clawed at him, persistent and unrelenting, tugging him toward unconsciousness. Kai tried to shrug it off, but the endless cycle of stress, planning, and pushing himself had taken its toll. Sar?h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Somewhere deep down, he wished for sleep to claim him, if only for a moment of respite. And so, his eyes slowly closed, his tense body relaxing against the bed as the cold, heavy silence of the room gave way to the haze of his dreams. *** Kais eyes opened to an expanse of lush, green grass swaying gently in an unseen breeze. He blinked, his gaze darting around the unfamiliar clearing. It was quiet, serene even, yet something felt off. He clenched his fists, half-expecting to find himself in one of his recurring nightmares. But unlike those suffocating visions, there were no dim caverns, no walls closing in on him, no beasts lurking in the shadows. And the silhouette of his master was nowhere in sight. Looking up, he saw the moon hanging in the sky, unnaturally large and casting an eerie glow across the clearing. Its pale light felt cold against his skin. He blinked again, confusion twisting in his gut. "What is this...?" he muttered under his breath. Then, a voice cut through the stillness, soft yet commanding. "Fatebreaker," it called, sending a shiver racing down his spine. "I was finally able to reach you. Or do you prefer Kai? I can also call you Arzan if that suits you better." Kai whipped around, his eyes locking onto a figure standing a few paces away. It was a womanan elf, her ageless features exuding an air of wisdom and power. Her long silver hair flowed down her back, and her silver eyes shimmered with a strange light. She leaned lightly on a wooden staff, its surface etched with intricate runes. Despite her benevolent smile, Kai couldnt shake the unease prickling at his skin. His instincts kicked in. He willed his mana to surge, to form a defensive shield or even just spark to life, but nothing. His heart sank as he realised he couldnt access his mana here. The woman chuckled softly, her voice laced with amusement. "Dont worry," she said, her tone gentle. "Youre safe. I called you here into my own space. This isnt a dream, but its not the physical realm either. Thats why you cant access your mana." She tilted her head slightly, as if to reassure him. "I promise, your body is perfectly safe where it is. I simply wanted to talk." Kais expression hardened, his eyes narrowing. "I dont know you," he said bluntly, taking a defensive step back. "But I know you," the woman replied, her smile unwavering. "Ive been observing you for some time now. Weeks, to be exact." Kai frowned, his mind racing to make sense of her words. "Who are you?" The woman straightened, her grip tightening on the staff. "My name is Valeirith," she said. "I am the keeper of this placean observer of paths untaken, of fates rewritten." Her eyes sparkled as she added, "And you, Kai youve intrigued me." Kais jaw clenched, the weight of her words sinking in. "What do you want from me?" Valeiriths smile softened, and she gestured toward the moonlit clearing around them. "Kai," she said, her tone almost maternal. "Do you mind walking with me? Theres much to discuss, and its important." Kai''s lips curled into a faint smirk. "Do I even have a choice?" he asked. The woman laughed softly. "I suppose not," she said, "but Id prefer if you followed willingly. It makes for better conversation." With a slight nod, Kai relented. "Fine. Lead the way." Valeirith turned, her staff lightly tapping the ground as she moved toward the edge of the clearing. Beyond the grassy expanse, a dense forest loomed, its shadows stretching like outstretched fingers. Kai followed her silently, his eyes scanning the surroundings as he tried to make sense of the situation. The air felt strange, thick with an energy he couldnt quite place. He wondered what type of magic was this. Was this some kind of [Soul Domain?] That sort of a spell was at least a fifth circle one and the ability to call him up there made it clear that he was dealing with an opponent way stronger than him. It made him take his steps carefully. For a while, neither of them spoke. Kai trailed behind her, his gaze flitting between the towering trees and the light filtering through the canopy. His thoughts churned with theories, but eventually, the silence became unbearable. "So," he said, breaking the quiet, "can you explain whats going on here?" Valeirith glanced over her shoulder with a knowing smile. "Thats precisely why I called you here To explain whats going on," she said, her tone unhurried. "Though Ill admit, Id hoped to explain everything at onceabout the coming calamity, the threads of fate, and why we need you to save everything." Kais brow furrowed, suspicion flickering across his face. "But," Valeirith continued, "as Ive watched your threads, I realised you already know quite a bit. Not just anyone can be a Fatebreaker, after all." Her gaze lingered on him, almost fascinated. "Two souls reside within you. One, undeniably yours, strong and dominant. The other... fragmented, scattered like particles, yet undeniably present. Its fascinating, really." Kais jaw clenched. "Dont talk in circles. Just say what you mean." Valeirith laughed again, light and melodic, and waved her hand dismissively. "Alright, alright. No more riddles. But were already here. Youll understand more once you see it." Kai stopped in his tracks as they stepped into another clearing, his breath hitching at the sight before him. Towering above them was a massive tree, its roots sprawling like veins through the earth, its branches reaching up to tear at the heavens. The tree pulsed faintly with a shimmering light, each glow casting the surroundings in a surreal, otherworldly radiance. It was straight out of heaven. Everything looked magical in a way that was explained in fairy tale books for children. Even the very soil seemed to pulse with energy when he took steps forward. "The Elder Tree," Kai muttered, his voice barely audible. The words felt heavy on his tongue, steeped in both awe and dread. "The source of all mana." Valeirith came to stand beside him, her gaze soft as she followed his line of sight. "Yes," she said quietly, "the source of all mana and the life giver of us elves." Kai narrowed his eyes and closed his palms, as they itched to move forward and touch the tree, see how it felt. "How did I miss this? How could something this massive not have been seen earlier?" Valeirith didnt answer immediately, letting the silence hang before speaking. "Because it exists on a different plane. This right here is just a projection. But as things stand even the real Elder Tree is not eternal. Everything, no matter how grand, comes to an end." Her voice dropped slightly, tinged with sorrow. "Youve seen it, havent you? Lived through a time when the Elder Tree was no more. When the calamity took everything, when the prophecy had come true." Valeiriths eyes locked onto his, unflinching. Hearing her words, Kai froze, his entire body tensing. Her words struck deeper than he cared to admit, and the mention of his secretthe one he had guarded so fiercelysent a chill racing down his spine. "How do you know about that?" Valeirith turned to face him fully and she tapped the ground with the staff she held. "I am a worshipper of the Elder Tree," she said, her voice carrying a reverence that seemed to echo in the air. "It grants its followers gifts... insights into the threads of fate and the truths of the soul. My gift allows me to see through these threads, even those that have been severed. You, Kai, have broken your fate, and yet... it lingers, altered but not erased." Kais fists clenched at her words, his mind racing. He didnt like thisdidnt like being read, his very essence laid bare. His heartbeat fastened twice as he continued to stare at the depths of the silver eyes. Valeirith stepped closer, the staff in her hand glowing faintly as she continued, her tone firm. "Hence, I requestno, you, Magus Kai of the Sorcerer''s Tower, to protect the Elder Tree and my species. The prophecy looms over us, and extinction is imminent. You are the only one capable of mending and breaking fate." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 145. Mana guns The extinction of the Elder Tree had been one of the most infamous events in history and it not merely marked the end of an erait had shattered the balance of the world. Its roots, once rumoured to cradle the flow of mana like veins in a living body, had gone dry, leaving behind scars across the weave of existence itself. Historians labelled it the event that ended the First Golden Era of Magic, but those who lived through it likely called it something darker. The Second Era had risen from its ashes, but the changes it left in the atmosphere were like a wound festering over centuries. By the Third Era, the damage was undeniable. Manaonce abundant, intangible, immeasurablebegan to dwindle. Spellcraft, once a symphony of grand gestures and raw power, had transformed into a game of efficiency and restraint. For Kai, who had grown up in this diminished world, mana consumption was survival. He had to measure mana of every spell because waste was a luxury no one could afford. The worst casualty of the Elder Trees fall, however, was the elves. Their decline had been gradual but absolute. The Elder Tree wasnt just their god; it was their lifeline. Without it, their birth rates plummeted, their purpose dissolved, and their culture faded into legend. By the time Kai had come into the world, pure-blooded elves were a myth, and even those with diluted elven ancestry were a shadow of their forebears, lacking the grace, wisdom, or longevity that once defined their race. Thats why the elf womans words clung to his mind like an itch he couldnt scratch. From everything Kai had read, the Elder Trees death was an event of the distant past, tied to the close of the First Golden Era. This wasnt even the start of it yet. Unless His thoughts tangled with the mention of a prophecy. It was a warning and he wasn''t stupid enough to think that the mentions he had found in Hendrick''s diary were anything different. The pages had hinted at the coming doom. He felt like too many threads were converging in his mind, making him inch closer to the answers to his questions and at the same time, increasing them. Kai opened his mouth, desperate to speak, but Valeiriths soft smile stopped him. I know you have questions. But Im sorry, we dont have much time. The distance between us is too great, and I cant keep this space stable for long. I wont ask you to give me an answer now. Like me, you have responsibilitiesI understand that. Behind her, the world began to break down. Cracks formed in the air, similar to fractured glass. Kais eyes darted to the fractures, his unease growing as they spread like a spiders web. I will send a messenger, she continued, undeterred. Someone you already know. She will bring you to me, and then Ill answer all your questions. But, Kai, you must take this seriously. The world depends on youeven if others dont realize it. I do. And so do you. The cracks deepened, light spilling through the growing gaps in reality. The space around them groaned under the weight of its collapse. Wait! Kai shouted. At least answer one question. Whats the prophecy? Valeirith gave a soft smile, her silver eyes gleaming with an understanding that passed between them. The prophecy of the Cycle of Life and Death, she said, making Kai frown further.Thats all I can say for now. Its time for you to wake up. Before Kai could respond, the world shattered. The fractures tore apart, reality collapsing into a swirling void. Something powerful pulled at him, dragging him toward the ruptures. He called on his mana, trying to anchor himself, but it was like grasping at shadows. The energy slipped from his control, useless against the overwhelming tide. Valeiriths figure dissolved into the chaos, her gaze lingering on him even as everything broke apart. The pull became unbearable, and with one final surge, Kai was swallowed by the void. Darkness enveloped him. The next second, Kais eyes snapped open, a sharp gasp escaping his lips. His gaze darted around the room, the familiar shadows of furniture illuminated by the pale glow of moonlight streaming through the window. His breath was ragged, his heart pounding in his chest. Looking outside, he noted the moons position in the sky. Barely any time had passed. Sweat clung to his skin, and yet, more unsettling than that was the faint trace of mana lingering in the aira mana not his own. It was foreign, ethereal, undoubtedly left behind by the elf. He exhaled slowly, forcing his breathing to steady, but his thoughts churned like a storm. Whats going on exactly? he muttered under his breath, the words hanging in the stillness of the room. *** Kai moved through Balens workshop. Rows of apprenticesnearly two dozen nowworked under the minotaurs eyes, creating weapons, armor, and the components for mana cannons. Sparks flew from grinding wheels, and everyone else worked in a sync. It was hard to believe this all began with just a few hands assisting the minotaur. The growth had been exponential, and plans were already underway to double the workforce. To any outsider, it would seem as if Kai was gearing up for war. He wouldnt deny it. Part of this was to fulfil the orders for mana cannons, but the rest? It was preparation. His territory had survived one beast wave, but the scars it left had taught him a lessonhe wouldnt be caught off guard again. As Kai walked, workers paused to bow before returning to their tasks with renewed focus. He acknowledged each with a nod. The smell of oil and the heat of the forges followed him as he finally reached Balens office. The minotaur sat hunched over a desk, his massive frame dwarfed by the number of blueprints and diagrams spread out before him. Kai recognized the markings instantlythese were his designs, ones he had drafted during the days he had been confined to bed after suffering from mana backlash. Balens ears twitched as the door opened and he immediately straightened, his massive frame looming but respectful. He bowed his head deeply, his horns almost brushing the edge of the desk. Lord Arzan, youre here. I was just thinking Id need to come find you soon, he said, his gravelly voice carrying an urgency Kai couldnt shake off. Kai took a seat, the chair creaking under his weight as he settled. His sharp gaze flicked to the stack of blueprints on the table, already suspecting the reason for the summons. Is it about the materials? Balen nodded. Aye, thats part of it. First, though, I have to saythe mana gun design you gave me? Its genius. He reached behind the desk, pulling out a prototype. The sleek frame of the crossbow gleamed, its structure compact and reinforced with faintly glowing aethum shards embedded along its spine. A classic design, but mounted on the forearm, powered by these shards. This will give our guards the ability to unleash first-circle spells without needing to actually cast them. Its simple, effective, and deadly. Kai leaned forward, examining the prototype as a faint hum of energy radiated from the shard. He gave a small nod of approval. Thats the goal. A weapon that bridges the gap for those who are mortals and can''t do spells on their own. Mass-producible, practical, and devastating in the right hands. But I take it this isnt why you wanted to speak with me. Balen placed the weapon down.Youre right. The mana guns are coming along well enough, barring the usual shortage of high-grade mana-conductive materials. But its the armor designs He trailed off, reaching for the stack of blueprints and pulling out several sheets. He spread them across the desk, each one displaying diagrams of armor unlike anything Kai had seen in this erasleek, segmented pieces with built-in conduits for mana flow and hidden offensive mechanisms, such as retractable spikes and shock plates. I havent seen such armour before, Balen said, his finger tracing the outlines of a chest piece. Theyre offensive tools. Imagine armor that not only absorbs a hit but retaliates with a mana discharge or a shockwave. Its revolutionary. But to make them? Well need materials Ive never worked with on this scale. Specifically for our cavalry unit, we would need lightwood. Sear?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He pulled out another diagram detailing the wood that was one of the rarest armor materials in the world. Its a rare thingsturdy as steel but light enough to work with delicate mechanisms. Perfect for these designs. The problem is, I dont know enough about crafting with it. Working with lightwood armor is a whole art on its own, and Id have to learn it before we could even begin. Kai steepled his fingers, his mind already running through possible solutions. Do you know anyone who can teach you? Balens expression darkened in thought, his horns tilting slightly as he scratched at his chin. The dwarves. The dwarves? Kai repeated, his voice curious. Balen nodded. Theres a valley not far from LancephilCragstone Vale. Thats where theyve settled. If anyone knows the secrets of crafting with lightwood, its them. But He paused, his voice lowering. Theyre not exactly the cooperative type. They dont care about anything outside their own little world. Kai leaned back, a faint smirk playing at his lips. And you think we can convince them? Balens grin widened, his tusks glinting faintly in the light. Not with words, no. But with these? He gestured at the blueprints scattered across the table. Those stubborn bastards are arrogant, but theyve got a weaknessan insatiable greed for knowledge. Show them these designs, and theyll be drooling. Your blueprints arent just innovative; theyre something theyve never seen before. Offer them this knowledge, and theyll think twice before saying no. Kai nodded, his expression thoughtful. The dwarves... One of the most isolated races. Theyve always kept to themselves, stubborn and insular. But even they werent immune to extinction. Their downfall came not from greed or war but from a mana fiend. It collapsed their tunnels, crushing their entire civilization beneath the earth. Most of them perished, and those who survived scattered across the world, losing their identity over time. Kai had heard a lot of them. Actually, a lot of the weapon designs he had given Balen were made due to the things a Mage Tower had found while exploring their ruins. We can send a messenger to see if they are interested in working with us, Kai said. You said you worked with them in the past, so it''s not like we would be moving blindly. Balen nodded. Yes, I can try to send them a letter with some of the ideas. They might be interested, he muttered before shaking his head and looking down at the lightwood design. But the dwarves arent the biggest hurdle. Its still the lightwood. Kai leaned back in his chair, his fingers drumming lightly on the armrest. Ive already sent a team to investigate the Vasper Forest, hoping to find a source there. But theyve found nothing so far. Its taking more time than I expected. Balens brows furrowed in thought before his eyes lit up with an idea. Why not try the elven forests? They have every kind of wood you could dream of. If anywhere has lightwood, its there. The mention of the elves sent a jolt through Kais mind, and his gaze turned distant. His thoughts spiraled back to the events of the previous nightthe shimmering fractures in space, the enigmatic elf woman, and her cryptic words about prophecies and the cycle of life and death. Ill think about it, Kai said after a moment, his voice lower than usual. The elves are a matter Ive been meaning to look into anyway. Balen tilted his head, curiosity flickering in his eyes. Oh? And whys that? Before Kai could respond, a sharp knock interrupted them. Both men turned toward the door as it creaked open, revealing a guard standing stiffly at attention. Lord Arzan, the guard announced while bowing deeply. The mercenaries are in the castle requesting an audience. One of them, Raven, is particularly insistent. She says its very important. Kais eyes widened slightly at the name, his mind snapping back to the elfs final words. His heart quickened as he rose from his seat. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Happy new year. Forgot to wish in last chapter. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 146. Messenger When the elf woman, Valeirith, had sent word through a messenger, Kais curiosity had been piqued. Who would it be? The possibilities nagged at him, enough that hed even decided to instruct Killian to keep an eye out for any elves skulking about in the city. Yet, despite his preparation, he hadnt expected the answer to come in the form of Raven. She had been there in front of his eyes, but he had completely forgotten about her. Now, as Kai stepped into the meeting room, the air felt charged with unspoken tension. Francis stood at the corner of the table, flanked by the familiar faces of Gorak, the twinsFinn and Finnigan, and Raven. Her eyes followed his every move and there was something in themhesitation, maybe even uneasiness. They rose to their feet as one, bowing deeply. Kai nodded in acknowledgement, and let his eyes make contact with everyone present. Sit, he instructed, motioning to the chairs. As they obeyed, he lowered himself into his seat and got comfortable. Though, it was hard to get comfortable as even the air held a tension that he couldnt just ignore. Francis wasted no time. "Lord Arzan," he began, "Raven has" Kai held up a hand, cutting him off with a subtle shake of his head. His eyes fixed on Raven, their sharpness slicing through her nerves. Speak, he said simply. The elf shifted in her chair, her hands clasping tightly in her lap. For a moment, it seemed she might falter, but she steadied herself with a deep breath. "Lord Arzan," she began, her voice steady despite the weight of her words. "Ive received a message from the matriarch of my tribe. It concerns you, and... for that reason, Ive come seeking your understanding." Kais expression didnt shift, but his mind worked quickly. Matriarch? he echoed softly, thinking back to the elf he had seen in his vision. Would her name happen to be Valeirith? The reaction was immediate. Ravens dark eyes widened, the tension in her shoulders easing as disbelief and relief warred for dominance on her face. You... you know of her? she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Her demeanour shifted visiblywhere moments ago she had seemed tightly wound, now she appeared calmer, more at ease. Whatever Kai had just said had struck a chord. Kai grimaced, leaning back slightly. "You werent the only one who received a message. I got one too." His fingers tapped idly against the table. "At first, I thought it was just my mind playing tricks, but there were traces of her mana in the air afterwards. She talked about a messenger and wanting me to come to the elf territory, Sylvastra." Ravens eyes flickered with recognition, and she gave a small nod. She leaned a bit forward, and Kai took it as a sign that she understood the situation. "That makes sense. I was tasked with guiding you, and if youve received the message too, then it might make things easier." Her voice faltered slightly before she straightened in her seat. "Please, Lord Arzan, come with me. I dont know the full extent of the matter, but if the matriarch is asking for your help, its of utmost importance." Francis shifted on the side, his lips parting as if to interject, but he hesitated and ultimately leaned back, his expression neutral. Whatever thoughts he had remained unsaid as he allowed the conversation to continue. Kais gaze didnt waver. "I understand that," he said slowly, "but I have some questions first." His eyes locked onto Ravens. "Who exactly is Valeirith?" Ravens posture stiffened slightly. "Shes the matriarch of my tribe," she began carefully. "One of the ruling tribes of Sylvastra. Among all the tribes, shes known as the Fate-Seer for her ability to divine the flow of events." Kai nodded, his expression thoughtful. "When I got the message, she mentioned a prophecy about an upcoming calamitysomething that involves the Elder Tree. Do you know anything about that?" The room fell into a heavy silence. Ravens gaze dropped, and something passed through her eyes. After a moment, she shook her head, her voice low and tinged with regret. "Im sorry, Lord Arzan. Prophecies are closely guarded secrets, known only to the elders themselves. Theyre rarely shared because of fear of causing panic or misunderstanding." She hesitated, then added softly, "When I left my tribe, I was barely considered an adult. I dont have much knowledge of such things." Kais eyes narrowed slightly, but before he could speak, she continued, her tone shifting. "But... if it involves the Elder Tree, there might be something. The tree is sacred to my people. Its tied to our history, our mana, and our survival. If the prophecy is about it..." She trailed off, and her eyes trailed downwards in a grim expression. "Then the matter is more urgent than I realized." Kais brows furrowed. What do you mean? Raven hesitated before speaking, "There are whispers in every tribe that something is wrong with the Elder Tree. We used to hold yearly festivals, celebrating beneath its roots with dances and offerings. But for decades now, no ones been allowed near the roots. The elders blocked access entirely. Many of us fear something is wrong with our life-giver, but theyre just whispers. We elves we believe the Elder Tree to be all-powerful." Kai said nothing, but his mind churned. He kept his expression neutral, though an uncomfortable weight pressed on him. Letting out a slow breath, he calmed himself and looked at Raven. "I understand what youre saying, and I know youre telling the truth." His gaze sharpened. "Ive seen it myself. A vision, if you will. So Ill agree to come with you." Ravens face lit up, a rare smile breaking through her composed self. "Thank you, Lord Arzan! We can leave right away" Kai raised a hand, stopping her mid-sentence. "I know youre eager, but Im a lord. I have responsibilities here. Ill accompany you, but I need time to finish my tasks and speak with my aides." Ravens enthusiasm dimmed slightly, but she nodded with understanding. "Of course, Lord Arzan." She rose to leave, her companions following her lead. But just as they approached the door, Kais voice stopped them. "Before we begin this journey," he said, which made everyone turn around and look at Kai, waiting to see what he was about to say next. "Id like to test your mana organs. I want to see if any of you have the potential to gain abilities like Killian and the others." The room, which had been relatively quiet, stirred. Gorak and the twins, silent until now, shared glances before the mercenary leader finally spoke. "You would do that for us, Lord Arzan?" Kais expression softened slightly. He wasnt surprised by their reaction. Hed been fighting alongside them since the beast wave, and he knew they were aware of his methods. While they didnt understand the intricacies of how he did it, theyd seen him take ordinary fighterssome without even the basic mana organsand turn them into Enforcers wielding power that rivalled trained Mages. "If youre joining this journey, it will be gruelling," Kai explained. "Every ounce of strength will matter. If you have the potential, Ill ensure you gain the power to match the challenge ahead. That said" His voice grew firm. "Ill require your word to keep the methods behind this a secret from anyone else." Gorak bowed deeply. "If you can truly make me into a warrior like that, I give you my word, Lord Arzan." The twins mirrored his action, their voices ringing with sincerity. "So do we, Lord Arzan." Kai nodded, satisfied. "Good. Return here tomorrow morning. Well begin the tests then." With that, the group left the room. Once they were out of the way, Kai turned towards Francis. I know you have a lot of questions. Lets talk it out in the office. And well he paused seeing Franciss frowned face. Your work will increase once again with me not being here for a while. *** "Lord Arzan, I really dont think you should leave the territory right now," Francis said, folding his arms. "Its going to be hard managing everything without you, and you threats are on the horizon." Francis looked at him with a conflicted expression, his eyes firmly planted on him. Kai exhaled slowly, nodding. His eyes raked around the office room and came back to Francis, feeling the depth of the situation. "I know that. Its Lucian thats the real problem." Franciss lips tightened. "Not just him. With the aftermath of the beast wave, all eyes are on us. If you leave, Im certain other nobles will sniff around to figure out where youre going. And Duke Lucian if he gets wind of your absence, hell undoubtedly make his move." Kai remained silent, his eyes drifting toward the map on the table. His fingers tapped non rhythmically against the wood as his gaze lingered on the Lancephil Kingdom and the marked location of the elf territorydeep to the east. He kept staring at it for a while, looking at the areas they would have to traverse to get to Sylvastra. Finally, a small smile curved up on Kais face as the idea crossed his mind. "I understand the risks, Francis, but its crucial I head to the elf territory. Theres too much at stake. For one, the resourceslightwood, druidic spells, and knowledge we dont have access tocould give us a significant edge in the coming conflicts." He glanced at Francis. "And if the elders there know how to refine mana organs further, well need that. The benefits outweigh the risks." Francis didnt look convinced. "Even if thats true, the gazes following us wont relent. If you disappear, it will raise questions we cant afford to answer. And without you, Duke Lucian might start whatever he''s planning early." A small smirk tugged at Kais lips. "Ive thought of that and I have a plan." Francis raised an eyebrow. "What is it, Lord Arzan?" Kai leaned forward, tracing a finger on the map toward the west of the elf territory. "Duke Blackwoods contingent is still here, correct?" "Yes," Francis said cautiously. "Good. Blackwoods territory lies south of the elven lands. Close enough that travelling with his people wont draw as much suspicion. If I hide myself and leave with them, I would be able to travel easily and no one would know I''m not in Veralt. Francis frowned. "That might cover some of the scrutiny, but what about the city? If you suddenly stop showing your face here, the rumours wont take long to spread." Kai nodded, as though expecting the question. "Which is why well use a doppelganger." Francis blinked. "A doppelganger?" Kai smirked. "Well find someone with a similar build and face shape. Dress him in my robes, put him in carriages, and let him make appearances in the city every week. He wont need to interact muchjust be seen. Itll be enough to keep suspicions at bay." Francis rubbed his temples, muttering under his breath before looking back at Kai. "You make it sound simple, but finding someone convincing enough" "It wont be hard," Kai interrupted. "We dont need perfection, just someone passable from a distance. Most people wont get close enough to notice the difference. Besides, its temporary. By the time anyone starts asking questions, Ill already be back." Francis sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair. "Youre putting a lot on the line with this plan." Kais gaze hardened. "Im putting everything on the line. But if we dont take these risks now, well have nothing left when the real storm hits." After a moment of silence, Francis gave a reluctant nod. "I can arrange for that," he said, but his brows furrowed as he added, "But, Lord Arzan... is it really necessary?" The old man, though seemed to have understood the situation, still battled with completely giving in to Kais idea. He didnt answer immediately. Instead, he stood, moving toward the window. The late afternoon sun covered the city in a golden glow but his gaze was far away. "Im sorry, Francis. I know what youre thinking. But yes, its necessary. And I dont want to repeat myself again." He turned his head slightly, enough for Francis to catch the glint of determination in his eyes. "I care for this territory. You know that. But the only way we stand a chance against Lucianor the stronger powers aiming at usis more power. If I can establish a connection with Sylvastra and gain what Im after, we might quash Lucian without suffering any significant losses." His words hung thick in the air, heavy with conviction, but inwardly, his thoughts spiraled further. he admitted to himself. The image of the Elder Tree flickered in his mind, its roots choked by dead mana. Kai clenched his jaw. He exhaled sharply, fingers gripping the windowsill. Back in his previous life, during humanitys final stand, hed never borne this weight alone. His master had been there, guiding him, and countless others had fought alongside him. Now, though, it felt like everything rested squarely on his shoulders. The thought gnawed at him until he shook his head, forcing himself to focus. "No," he murmured, his voice low enough that Francis couldn''t hear him. "Im not alone. I have othersKillian, Francis..." He paused, mentally listing a few more names. But even as he tried to convince himself, the truth lingered. And that was the problem. If Kai wanted them to be more than just alliesif he wanted true companionshe couldnt keep them in the dark forever. His lips pressed into a thin line. He didnt think so. A frown settled on his face as his masters voice echoed in his mind, clear and steady, as if the man were standing beside him again. Was this the right time? Kai let the question linger, it didnt need answers right away. It followed him for the rest of the day, a quiet, persistent itch in the back of his mind. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - Sarch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 147. POV of a Maid A yawn escaped her lips as she glanced at the sunlight filtering into her room. Claire blinked away the drowsiness lingering from sleep. She rubbed her eyes and sat upright on her bed. Her eyes gazed around her room and a small smile too her lips. The space was a significant upgrade from what she had before, all thanks to Lord Arzans kindness. Without another thought, she stood and walked toward the life-sized mirror. Her gaze swept from her long brown hair to the hem of her dress, taking in her reflection. She couldnt remember the last time she had looked this healthy. Her once-sunken eyes now appeared full of life. The hollowness in her cheeks had vanished, replaced by a healthy glow. Even her bony hands had regained their fullness. Overallshe felt healthier and happier. It had been years since she began working at the estate. In those first few years, each morning she had faced the mirror only to watch hope drain from her eyes day by day. They had lacked anything resembling joy, ambition, or even the faintest respect or love for her work or the city. But she wasnt one to run from responsibility. So, she did what she had to. Now, it was all different. So much of it stemmed from what had happened since Lord Arzan''s risenot just as a leader, but as a hope for the city. He had taken charge with a firmness that inspired everyone around him, including Claire. Her mothers words drifted into her thoughts: Claire hadnt truly understood those words until now. Because the same had happened to the city. Veralt had been on the brink of ruin, the people gripped by fear as the beast wave loomed over them like a death sentence. But against all odds, they had survived. And survival had given way to something greater. The city wasnt just recoveringit was thriving, growing at a pace no one could have imagined. She had seen it happen with her own eyes. As Lord Arzan''s trusted maid, shed been privy to meetings that shaped the city''s future, her presence there a silent witness to her growing role in this new era. The discussions were no longer about merely holding on but about reaching for moretrade, security, and alliances. Veralt was in the right hands, and she felt pride swell in her chest at being even a small part of its transformation. A soft breeze stirred the air from the window, brushing against her face and pulling her out of her thoughts. She turned toward the open window, her eyes sweeping over the castle grounds below. The guards were already hard at work, their training echoing across the courtyard in rhythmic clinks of metal against metal. Their discipline mirrored the spirit of the city itselfa unity born from struggle, now focused on a shared purpose. They were practising as if another battle was just on the horizonthe determination; it was contagious. Another gust of wind rolled in, stronger this time, carrying with it faint whispers. Claire froze, her senses sharpening. The sound was elusive, intangible, like a half-remembered melody. Yet, it felt real, brushing against her awareness in a way that sent a shiver down her spine. Her gaze instinctively lifted to the distant horizon, where the line of the Vasper Forest met the sky. The pull was subtle but unmistakable, a silent call drawing her attention back to the woods and the new friend she had made there. Sar?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The yearning to return swelled within her, but she quickly shook it off. Not now. Not yet. She had duties to fulfil, responsibilities she wouldnt abandon. Lord Arzan had entrusted her with more than just her usual tasks, and she wasnt about to disappoint him. With a sharp breath, she stepped away from the window, her priorities firm as she moved to prepare for the day. She freshened up briefly and made her way outside the room. Today, Claire wasnt simply Lord Arzans maid. She had already passed those duties to one of the other servants, freeing herself for something more pressing. As she strode through the castle halls, she was greeted by everyone she passed. There was a time, when she had moved through these spaces unnoticed, just another face among the staff. But now, her position as the lords personal maid carried weight. People nodded, smiled, and offered greetings, their tones often laced with respector, perhaps, calculation. She wondered briefly if their kindness was genuine or merely an acknowledgement of her growing influence. But again, it didnt matter. Whether driven by sincerity or self-interest, they were all working toward the same goalthe prosperity of Veralt. That was enough for her. With her head held high, Claire stepped into the courtyard, the sun breaking through the morning clouds. Today was another step forwardnot just for the city, but for her as well. Before she realized it, Claire found herself on the main street. Her gaze flitted across the scene in front of her: carriages trundling in through the gates, lines of people spilling into the city, their chatter blending into a dull roar. Another line stretched outward, carrying carriages away toward neighbouring towns. The gates, once quiet, now felt like the lifeline of Veralt, pulling in streams of migrants and resources alike. The news had spread like wildfireVeralt, a rising star among cities, promising prosperity and opportunity. The surge of newcomers was inevitable. Some came seeking the free food and steady jobs the city now offered. Others arrived with dreams of joining the city guard, drawn by the stories that rumoured of good pay and a lord whose fairness had earned him loyalty, not fear. Claire moved through the throng and her eyes scanned the flurry of activity. Buildings in various stages of construction loomed ahead, the skeletons of new workshops, homes, and marketplaces rising toward the sky. Workers bustled about, the sharp clink of tools mingling with the progress. Roads were being widened, drainage systems improvedeverywhere she looked, Veralt was transforming. She could only hope it would continue, that this pace of growth wouldnt falter under the weight of whatever was about to come. Her brow furrowed as she recalled Lord Arzans words. Those words had become a mantra. Every day, she carried them with her, using them as a reminder to push harder, to stay vigilant, to never grow complacent. She had forced herself to take less rest than she needed, to throw herself fully into her duties. But even now, as she moved, she wondered if it was enough. Was she contributing enough to Veralts future? Was this her limit? But for now, this was all she could do. Her steps slowed as her destination came into view: a modest two-story building, simple yet sturdy, its wooden sign swinging gently in the breeze. It was the school, the newest addition to the area. Claire entered. She felt that every part of her buzzed with anticipation. The first door to her left led to a small room, its walls newly painted and the faint smell of wood polish lingering. Her eyes swept across the gathered students. At the front, a group of children sat on neat benches, some dressed in fine outfitswealthy and more privileged. Others wore patched tunics and scuffed shoes, their origins in the slums all too apparent. At the very back of the room sat a handful of adults, their postures awkward, their gazes darting around as if unsure of their place. Their rough hands and weathered faces stood out, a stark contrast to the youthful energy around them. Yet, despite their discomfort, they stayed. They were the ones who wanted to learn, to better themselves in a city that now offered a chance for something more. And it started herein language class. She took a closer look at the faces on the back, her gaze lingering on a familiar face among the adults at the back. It was Cecilia, Gareths wife. She recognized her instantly by the stern set of her jaw and the fierce determination that burned in her eyes. Claire couldnt help but smile. She and Cecilia had met a few times since she had been a frequent member of the community kitchens that the maids were largely responsible for. Even after Gareth''s standing had gotten better, she had kept coming, not to eat food, but to help out. Seeing her and other adults in the room made her feel like the education program was working well. The classes were free, and the initiative had drawn a wide variety of people. Parents crowded the school with their children, eager for them to grasp the basics of language. It was all tied to the apprentice program Lord Arzan had recently introduceda gateway to better jobs and futures for the people of Veralt. The promise of opportunity had worked like a miracle, drawing in the hopeful and the determined alike. Claire stepped up to the podium, taking it all in. A simple blackboard stood behind her, its surface clean and ready. She cleared her throat, the soft cough enough to quiet the murmur of voices in the room. Good morning, everyone, she began, her voice steady. Today, well start with the basics of the common tongue. Most of you already know how to speak it, but were going to focus on reading and writing first. Once were comfortable with that, well move on to basic calculations. The room fell silent as her words sank in. Eyes, both young and old, were fixed on her, waiting, listening. It was a humbling experience, to stand before them and know she was a part of their journey toward something better. Yet, as she continued explaining the lesson, a shadow of doubt crept into her mind. The question again gnawed at her. It wasnt that she felt she was slackingshe worked tirelessly, doing everything she could for Veralt and for Lord Arzan. But deep down, she couldnt shake the feeling that she was capable of more, that her potential extended beyond this. As the thought lingered, the winds outside stirred again. The faint rustle swept through the room, brushing against her cheek like a whisper of something just out of reach. Once again, the small gesture sent chills down her spine, creating goosebumps on her skin. *** It took over half a day for the classes to wrap up, leaving Claire with just enough time to check in on the tasks assigned to the other newly recruited teachers. She walked through each room, observing their progress, offering occasional suggestions, and ensuring that everything adhered to the goals of Veralt''s education program. As the one directly responsible for the initiative, Claire knew there was no room for error. The citys future rested, in part, on these lessons and the opportunities they promised. By the time she returned to the castle, the sun had already begun its descent. The evening drills for the guards were in full swing, the clash of weapons and shouted commands filling the air. The maids bustled to finish their tasks, tying up the days loose ends before retreating for the night. Despite the ache in her feet and the increasing hunger in her stomach, Claire didnt head to the kitchen or her quarters for rest. Instead, she made her way to Lord Arzans office. She had a report to deliverthe days progress, the growing number of enrolled students, and her observations of the programs development. Reaching the heavy wooden door, she knocked firmly. A calm voice from within called her, and she entered swiftly, closing the door behind her. What greeted her left her momentarily stunned. Lord Arzan stood in the centre of the room, juggling seven orbs of glowing lights effortlessly. The faint hum of magic filled the air, the orbs spinning in perfect harmony around his hands. His eyes were closed, his expression serene, as if this act of magical dexterity was nothing more than a casual pastime. Lord Arzan always fascinated her, she couldnt help but marvel at the sight. For a moment, it felt like she was watching a performer in a grand circus rather than the lord she served. He finally opened his eyes, the light balls dissolving into harmless motes of mana as he turned toward her with a warm smile. Ah, Claire, youre here. I was just about to call you in. Claire blinked, snapping out of it. For what, my lord? she asked, stepping closer. But her curiosity got the better of her, and she gestured toward where the orbs had been just moments ago. If I may ask what were you doing? "I was just trying out some mana-sensitive exercises," Lord Arzan explained casually, dismissing the fading motes of light with a wave of his hand. "Im considering passing them on to the Enforcers and Rhea. They could help improve their perception of mana." Claire blinked, nodding slowly as she processed his words. Before she could comment, Arzan continued, his tone shifting slightly. "Either way, the reason I wanted to call you in was to let you know well be going on a small adventure. I need you to pack both mine and your belongings." Her brows furrowed in surprise. "An adventure, my lord? To where?" Lord Arzan tilted his head, the way he did whenever he had something exciting to say. "Were going to the elven territory, Sylvastra. But there will be a few detours along the way. If all goes as planned, it should take less time than my journey to the capital. This time, though, I want you to accompany me." Claire straightened immediately, the surprise fading into resolve. "Obviously, Lord Arzan. But" She hesitated, her mind recalling a story she had read in the library. "The elvesarent they reclusive? Ive heard they dont allow outsiders into their lands." "True," Arzan admitted, sitting on the bed. "But this time, theyre the ones calling me in. Raven will show us the way. The elves may be recluse, but theyre also spirit trainers, and I believe I can establish a bond with them." "Spirit trainers?" Claire asked, her curiosity piqued. "Yes," Arzan said with a nod. "Like Raven. Shes not a particularly strong one, but she can imbue her arrows with her spirits power. Thats the essence of a spirit trainer. The elves dont have the same mana organs humans doonly a Mana heartbut they make up for it with an affinity for spirits, bonding with them to perform magic. Legends say the Elder Tree granted them this power. Its fascinating." Claires mind raced with questions, but one stood out above the rest. "So Can humans become spirit trainers too?" Arzan paused, considering her question. "Yes, its possible. Ive heard of a few humans bonding with spirits. Even some Mages can do it, but its extremely rareabout one in ten million. Spirits have distinctive personalities and the affinity required to bond with them is beyond what most humans possess. Still, its not impossible, he said, brushing his robes. "Either way, make sure everything is packed by tomorrow. Well be leaving shortly." "Understood," Claire replied, bowing her head. But as she left the room, her thoughts were no longer on the tasks she had intended to report. Instead of heading to the kitchen or her quarters, her feet carried her to the castles library. "Spirit trainers" she murmured to herself. The concept fascinated her, and she couldnt resist the urge to learn more. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 148. Walk with me With the decision to journey to Sylvastra made, Kai set to work immediately. He moved swiftly through his remaining tasks, issuing detailed instructions to his retainers on how to manage Veralt in his absence. He didnt want anyone to lack in any way, therefore, he knew he needed to be clearer on their goals. The first thing he did was to check Gorak and his team for their mana organs. He made them swear they won''t ever go against his and Veralt''s interest before doing so and the results were pleasant to say the least. Although Raven had no chance to become an Enforcer due to her being an elf, the other three actually had both the mana organs required to become an Enforcer. Gorak told him that he came from a long line of mercenaries, so Kai had expected him to have the organs, but for the twins, it seemed like luck had really favoured them. Though, from what he recalled from research on mana organs, twins mostly had an equal number of organs of each other. He had no idea why it was the case, but it helped bring the total strength of the mercenary group by a lot. He finished with their awakening soon before telling them to prepare for the journey ahead. For the retinue accompanying him to the elven territory, Kai opted for a lean group. The mercenary band trailing him sufficed for security, and he decided against involving Killian, trusting him to keep Veralt secure. Feroy, already managing Verdis, was also unavailable, so Kai turned to Gareth, the newest member of the Watchers. Gareth accepted the offer eagerly, his excitement visible at the prospect of traveling beyond the familiar and stepping foot in the legendary elf lands, everyone heard of; but didnt get to see. The conversation with Knight Darian had also gone smoothly, though the tough man had one condition; Kai would need to meet Duke Blackwood before passing through his lands. The Duke, it seemed, had taken an interest in him. Kai had no objections; in fact, hed planned such a meeting regardless. The discovery of the medallion had shifted his priorities, and after a lengthy discussion with Francis, even the cautious advisor had agreed on the importance of building rapport with powerful noblesespecially a Duke. The decision seemed to ease Francis somewhat, though his unease about Kai leaving the territory persisted. Truth be told, even Kai harbored doubts. He understood the risksLucians scheming, the beast waves aftermath, and the gradual growth of Veralt. He knew he needed to be here, to ensure that everything is safe and sound, especially when he knew a little hiccup could turn things upside down. Yet, the need to know about the prophecy and uncover his role in saving the world outweighed his reservations. Kai was no stranger to the weight of his responsibilities. He was juggling precariously, aware that any misstep could send everything tumbling. Especially in the form of a man named Lucian, the proverbial viper. He remained an ever-present threat, coiled and waiting to strike. Though, as to what exactly Lucian was planning, Kai had little idea. Ansel had already dispatched a team to monitor his enemys movements, but the reports had been frustratingly sparse. Lucians activities had gone eerily quiet, as if hed vanished entirely. Not even a single public outing in the last month and no rumours came out of his estate. The silence gnawed at Kais nerves. It wasnt the absence of a threat that unnerved him, but the certainty that something was brewing. Whatever it was, he was sure it would unfold before winter. From what Kai had gathered through his talks with Princess Amara about Queen Regina and with Malden and his second brother, Edrian about Lucian, both individuals shared a particular traitimpatience. Neither seemed the type to delay their plans when opportunity presented itself. If Lucian intended to strike, it would be before the snows arrived, when armies could still march and supplies flowed freely. Winter, with its frozen roads and stranded forces, was no season for conflict. This upcoming deadline gave Kai little time to accomplish his goals in Sylvastra. Yet, unlike before, he felt a rare sense of reassurance. Killian and Francis could manage Veralt in his absence, and he trusted them implicitly. His role now was to make the trip swift and productive. "Lord Arzan?" A rough yet familiar voice broke his train of thought. Kai looked up from the book hed been poring over, a detailed text on Lancephils geography, to find Killian standing in the doorway. Yeah? Kai asked, his eyes fixed on the knight. Killian stepped into the room, his hands in front of hima clear sign of the mans usual posture. Everythings ready. Your luggage has been packed, and the retinue is assembled. I believe it would be best to leave now, while most of the city is still asleep. Kai glanced toward the window, noting the faint light on the horizon. It was close to four in the morning, the hour caught between night and dawn. The streets would be silent and movements would be stillthat would allow them to slip away unnoticed. He nodded, closing the book and rising to his feet. Alright. Lets walk, he said and cleared his throat. He stepped towards the door and closed it slowly, the creak disappearing into thin air. He looked from the doorknob to the towering man and observed his eyes. Youve got something on your mind, dont you? You wouldnt have come to tell me this yourself otherwise. Killian nodded at that. Kai felt his lips curling upwards at how close he had gotten to the knight to know his habits. Without another word, they made their way down the staircases of the castle. Killian kept his pace with Kai. "Like you instructed," Killian said, beginning to talk about what was bothering him. "New orders have been given to Verdis. We''ve started fortifying everything. More of the Watchers have been sent there as well. Feroy and Administrator Zorgar seem to be handling things well, but" He hesitated. Kai turned to look back briefly and noticed the alertness. "I take it that if Duke Lucian is going to do something, hell take our preparations into account. It would still be hard to shake him off if he tries." Kai nodded, but there was an edge to his thoughts. "It''s like that," he said slowly. "But sometimes I almost want him to try something... Give me a reason to end this once and for all." His voice held a quiet intensity that briefly held Killian back in his tracks. He raised an eyebrow, his skepticism clear. "Are we preparing for an all-out war, Lord Arzan? Cause I always took it as us retaliating, not being the aggressors." He met Kai''s gaze, as if demanding him to explain his shift in mindset. Kais expression remained unwavering. "Its still that. Well retaliate when the time comes. But as I told you before, with the medallion, things are changing. I would need more power. Well strike back at Lucian, but once we do, we wont just stop there. After we retaliate successfully, well take it a step furtherwell become the aggressors. Ive got too many enemies already, with Queen Regina after me as well. And if I get the chance to finish one of them off... Ill take it." Killian fell silent and Kai felt him absorbing his words. He could already tell the wheels of his knights sharp mind was processing, strategizing his words. Then, after a long moment and a lot of descending steps later, he spoke. "Then... Lord Arzan, are you going to contest for the throne?" Kais gaze flickered to him, and his expression tightened slightly. "I told you I dont know yet." He paused, thinking it over. "Its certainly something Im considering, but its not a decision I can make alone. Moreover, I dont have the medallion yet." His gaze shifted forward, eyes narrowing as his thoughts sharpened. "But for now, the best course of action is to gain more allies and powerboth physical and political. When we have that, Ill be in a better position to make a move." Killian nodded in acknowledgment, accepting the answer without further questioning. It was obvious that he had been in the game long enough to understand that Kais decisions were never rushed. He had made a few of them early on, but was now past the point to barge in recklessly. Moreover, the path to power often had its own layers of complexity. As they reached the first floor, Kais mind was already shifting to the next task. He turned to Killian, his voice firm but matter-of-fact. "I need to be somewhere before we head down to the ground. Follow me." Killian gave a sharp nod. "Understood, my lord." With that, Kai moved purposefully toward one of the rooms at the far end of the floor. He slowed as he reached the door, giving it a gentle push open. Inside, the soft glow of candlelight enhanced a figure sleeping on the bed. It was Amyra. Kai stood silently at the threshold of her room, his eyes fixed on her thin form resting on the bed. She looked peaceful, though her complexion was still slightly pale, a complete difference to the soft, natural glow she usually carried. He couldnt help but notice the faint improvement in her appearance since the last time hed seen herher features no longer as pale as they had been during her treatments after the beast wave, the faintest hints of color returning to her skin. Her white hair lay scattered across the pillow. But her chest rose and fell steadily with each breath, and that was enough to reassure him, for now. He wished she would open her golden eyes and look at them, but well, he had no idea when she would wake uphopefully, it would be soon. His fingers brushed lightly over the door frame as he stepped inside. Killian, still standing behind him, became silentalmost too silent that he might as well become a wall in this stilled room. Kai stood next to Amyras laid form and looked at Killian. The knight was looking at her, and there was a certain depth to his eyes. Guilt, regrethe knew it in eyes too well to miss. "Do you still blame yourself?" Kai asked softly, not wanting to trouble whatever deep sleep Amyra was in. Killians shoulders stiffened slightly before he responded, his words quiet but filled with the intensity of self-doubt. "I should have been stronger. Amyra used her... powers to help me, to save my life that day. But it should have been the other way around. Thats what being a knight is, isnt it?" He ran a hand through his hair, his gaze never leaving her. "Now shes paying the price." Kai''s gaze softened, though his own heart ached with the weight of his retainers words. "Shes alive." "Yeah, but she''s sleeping," Killian said, his voice heavy with emotion. It was unusual to see Killian speaking with emotions. The man was built like a hulk, usually driven with logic and moving with purpose. But now, this was a whole another sight, even his eyes that usually were emotionless, were showing regret. "I dont know when shell wake up." "Hopefully soon," he replied. "I dont see anything wrong with her. Shes been in a coma. Its a dangerous state to be in, but I dont think shell stay asleep for long." He knew regret or guilt isnt something that he could help with at the moment, but his words; he hoped that they would help Killian, at least a little. Because carrying that sort of baggage wasnt as easy as it seemed. Kai knew that well. Killian nodded, though there was a quiet uncertainty still in his eyes. He looked up towards Kai and let out a breath through his nose. "I hope she wakes up before you come back." Kai stepped closer, looking down at Amyra once more. "That would be for the best," he murmured, his voice quieter now. "I believe Amyra might be a major key for us moving forward. If I need to make her an ally, Ill need to know exactly what she is." Killian didnt say anything more, his face a mask of understanding. They shared a moment of quietness before they turned and left the room. The door clicked softly behind them as they walked down the hall in silence. On the way, they didnt talk much about the futureboth of them were too preoccupied with their own thoughts, though Kai had more pressing matters on his mind He briefly asked about the construction of the Sorcerer''s Tower which was going well, and Jacks and Klan who had agreed to be their spies in Archine Tower. They''d already left on their way and would soon be contacting them through the Watchers that had been dispatched in the capital. Although it was dangerous, Kai trusted them to pull it off since he didn''t need them to get any information that might risk their lives. ...Were still waiting for a breakthrough, but its slow, Killian said. Kai nodded. "Having information on Magus Veridia and the Archine Tower will go a long way in the long run. Its a slow game, but its a necessary one." They reached the stairs leading down to the ground floor, the dim light from the torches flickering softly around them. He crossed the castle grounds, all the while, Killian trailing behind him. Soon, they walked past the water fountain and outside the gates. The chill of the early morning air brushed against his face, sharp and crisp. The scene before him was far busier than he''d anticipateddozens of carriages lined up, their drivers waiting, their horses stamping the cold ground. The usual bustle of city life had yet to pick up, but the procession already gave a sense of purpose to the moment. It was at that moment, however, that his eyes landed on a pair of figures he hadnt expected to seeAmara and Ragnar, alongside Brugnar. Kais brow furrowed slightly at the sight, but his posture remained calm as he turned toward Ragnar. The tall figure of the tribesman met his gaze, a deep bow accompanying his words. "Lord Arzan, I was hoping we could accompany the procession," Ragnar said, voice steady but with an undertone of something morea polite respectful tone. "Ive been planning to leave for my tribe soon, either way." Kai considered this for a moment. The situation was already complicated enough, but there was no reason to deny Ragnar''s request. "Okay," Kai said simply, his voice giving no indication of hesitation. "That wont be a problem." Ragnar and Brugnar exchanged a brief look, something unspoken passing between them. They both seemed to have more to say, but in the end, they only nodded and made their way to one of the carriages, settling in without further comment. Kai watched them for a moment, his mind already turning over the implications of their presence, before turning toward Amara. Her gaze was steady, but there was a hint of concern in her eyes. "I didnt expect you to wake up so soon, Princess," Kai said, giving in to his curiosity. Amara, standing a little straighter, met his gaze. "I read the letter you gave Anya of you being away," she said, voice soft but firm. "But I wanted to see you off. But is it really necessary for you to take a sudden trip? And I dont even know where youre going." Her words were gentle but held a subtle edge of impatience, as if she were looking for some kind of reassurance. Kais expression softened, but the flicker of conflict in his chest was still present. "It is necessary, Princess," he said, his voice steady. "Im sorry, but I cant tell you where Im going right now. Once I return, maybe I will." Amara frowned at that, the edges of her lips curving downward in quiet frustration. It looked like she wanted more, but she knew better than to press further. "Sure," she said, nodding reluctantly. "You did say youd be back soon." Kai gave her a reassuring smile. "It shouldnt take more than two, maybe three weeks." Her expression softened at that. "Then... can I come with you?" she asked, a hopeful note in her voice. Kai sighed, his lips tightening. The answer to that question was obvious. He wasnt taking a trip of adventure or sight seeing, this was something that should be done with utmost care and that included things such as; who he was bringing, and how much attention he was willing to bring into that from the outside world. Moreover, Amara wasnt in the state to travel, and it would cause extra trouble if something were to happen to her. "No, Princess. You should stay here at Veralt and recover. Even if your heart is healed now, its better not to travel. Your body still needs rest." She opened her mouth as though to argue but paused, taking in his words. Finally, she sighed and nodded in acceptance, though the look in her eyes held a quiet disappointment. "Take care of yourself, Lord Arzan," she said softly. "I will," Kai replied, his voice steady despite the storm of thoughts swirling in his mind. Just as the moment seemed to linger in the quiet air, a shout came from the direction of the carriages. "Lord Arzan! Were ready to move!" Gareths voice carried across the distance, and Kai turned to face the group, the time to depart fast approaching. "It looks like its time to move," Kai said, glancing back at Amara one last time. She gave him a small nod, and he turned toward the carriages, his mind racing with the uncertainty of the journey ahead. As he stretched his limbs, the weight of the upcoming trip settled on his shoulders. He muttered under his breath, more to himself than anyone else, "I hope this trip is worth it. Its too much of a gamble." With one last glance at the darkened sky, Kai moved toward the carriages, his heart heavy with the knowledge that whatever awaited him in Sylvastra, it would change everything. *** S~ea??h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 149. Blood drinker Shakrans eyes raked over the darkened marks marring the barely conscious man sprawled on the floor. The grey discolouration was spreading, slowly creeping across his body. He could feel the oppressive, ugly aura overtaking the mans usual human essence. Their gazes met. The mans sclera was bloodshot, but Shakran knew it wasnt just thatblood trickled from the corners of his eyes, where tears should have been. Even so, the man looked up. It shouldnt have been possible for him to muster the strength, to channel every last shred of his energy into glaring at Shakran, yet he did. Shakran didnt flinch. His piercing stare remained unwavering. The mans glare faltered, his fear giving way to desperation. His eyebrows knit together as he began to plead, tears mingling with the blood streaming down his face. The man knewdeath was coming for him. It wasnt an easy pill to swallow, knowing that every second ticked closer to his final breath. Shakran knelt down beside him, a slow, sinister smile curling on his lips, exposing his sharp fangs. He coughed lightly and spat saliva next to the mans face. I dont know whether to call you lucky or unlucky, Shakran mused, his voice dripping with mockery. Your bodys far more resistant to the plague, sure, but its just dragging out your deathmaking it all the more painful. Let me tell you a little secret, you''re going to die either way. But I think you already know it. Leaning closer, Shakran inhaled deeply, the metallic scent of the mans blood filling his senses. Despite how I look, he continued, his voice almost conversational, I dont particularly enjoy torture. But you gave me this. He gestured to his palm, displaying a dried cut left by the mans [Tornado Lances], a third-circle wind spell. Though the blood had clotted, the scar still throbbed. I had to return the favor, Shakran added with a smirk. The man tried to sneer but failed miserably. His lips quivered as he attempted to form words, but nothing came out. The sight amused Shakran. He tilted his head, studying the pathetic figure before him. F-f-filthy blood drinker, the man finally rasped. Shakrans smile widened. Filthy blood drinker, you say? Oh no, Id only be filthy if I drank blood. But I havent. Look at youyou spineless fool. Those marks all over your body? Dead mana will devour you soon enough. And you the filthy one here. The mans lifeless gaze briefly sparked with offence. He lifted his head slightly, narrowing his eyes in anger, his mouth moving as if to retort. But before another sound escaped his lips, Shakran flipped the dagger in his hand and slit the mans throat in one swift motion. The blade glided through effortlessly, blood spurting from the mans mouth and throat in equal measure. His head lolled back, lifeless at last. Shakran rose slowly, muttering under his breath. He hated being called thatnot the words themselves, but the intent behind them. The way they spat it, dripping with fear and contempt, as if it defined him. As if it diminished him. He clenched his fists briefly before exhaling. They were fools, all of them. Humans clinging to their fragile morality and brittle pride. I am far superior than these human Mages, he said aloud, as if to reaffirm it. They just havent accepted it yet. His gaze drifted across the ruins of the once-thriving farming city. This had been one of the larger settlements in Vandefall, a hub of grain and trade that fed the kingdom. Now, it was a silent wasteland. Corpses littered the streetsknights in gleaming armor now dulled with blood and grime, Mages who had failed to cast their last desperate spell, villagers clutching loved ones in frozen despair. Even children, their tiny forms sprawled in the dirt. It was the plagues work, the masterpiece Shakran had unleashed. Slow, creeping, unstoppable. Vandefall had sent their best to combat it: holy men from the church, Mages armed with purification spells, and legions of soldiers. They had all fallen, either to the plague itself or to Shakrans blood drinkers. The man at his feet was one of their championsa third-circle Mage. He had been formidable, killing several of Shakrans followers with the precision of his wind spells. But in the end, he was just another corpse among the many. Shakran glanced at the scar on his palm again and smirked. His eyes turned to the horizon, scanning the desolate landscape. The city, or what was left of it, had nothing more to offer him. It was time to move on, to bring his plague to the next unsuspecting settlement. But just as he turned to leave, movement caught his attention. sea??h th Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Three figures glided through the sky, their blackened wings spread wide, veins pulsing with the telltale signs of dead mana. Blood drinkers. They moved swiftly, their forms cutting through the twilight, before diving toward the ground. They landed near the city gates and approached him. The three knelt before him, heads bowed low. Report, Shakran commanded. Shakrans sharp grin widened as one of the blood drinkers stepped forward, his wings folding neatly behind him. Lord Shakran, three cities and countless villages have already fallen to us. Were ready to move westward and breach the borders of Lancephil. As we expected, the Vandefall royal family remains clueless, and the kings support is crumbling by the day. Shakran chuckled, his fangs glinting in the fading light. Of course it is. Thats what he gets for rejecting our offer. Arrogance always comes at a price. His tone turned icy as he issued his next command. Have Duke Zoran prepare to lead the coup. The time is right to uproot whats left of this kingdom. But more importantly, we must move toward Lancephil. Theres a matter Mistress Regina has tasked me with handling personally. The blood drinker raised his head slightly. Shakran saw the curiosity behind those masked faces. Are we to unleash the plague on Lancephil as well, my lord? Yes, Shakran confirmed, his voice low but brimming with menace. But the task Mistress Regina entrusted me with is different. It involves someone who has foolishly managed to get on her nerves. I will take a small group to handle it myself. You, however, will remain here and ensure the plague spreads unchecked. It must become a calamity greater than the Crimson Plague that wiped out three kingdoms a century ago You get me? I trust you understand the weight of this responsibility. The blood drinker bowed deeply. I understand, my lord. Without another word, he rose and took to the skies to carry out the orders with the other two lowly servants. Shakran lingered, his gaze returning to the lifeless body of the Mage at his feet. For a moment, he simply stared, as if the corpse could hear his musings. Arzan, Shakran said softly, the name rolling off his tongue. It was a foreign name to him. Ive only heard whispers of you, but Im hoping youll put up a better fight than this one. He nudged the dead Mage with his boot, almost amused. Though in the end, your fate will be the samea body without a head. His smile widened, his bloodied fangs gleaming in the dim light as he turned away, the ruins of the city behind him and the promise of more devastation ahead. *** The carriage was stilltoo still, just like he wanted. Kai sat cross-legged on the padded bench, his hands resting on his knees as he focused inward. He inhaled and exhaled slowly. For weeks now, Kai had been painstakingly working to heal his damaged Mana heart. The backlash from his previous overextension could have been severe, threatening to shatter his ability to channel mana altogether. Hed gotten luckyit could have killed him outrightbut the path to recovery hadnt been easy. If not for his knowledge of mana surgeries, the techniques to repair magical pathways and hearts, he wouldnt have stood a chance. Not even a little. If things had gone the way he feared, he would have wished for death over the torment of staying alive. Now, after countless days of grueling focus and patchwork repairs, he was at the final stage. The last fragment of his Mana heart needed careful correction, and if he knew anything at all, thatd be the fact that it needed his entire focus. Kai steadied his breathing further, diving deep into his core. The fractured edges of his Mana heart gleamed faintly in his minds eye, tiny cracks spidering along its once-seamless surface. He visualized his mana as threads of light, weaving them carefully around the damage. Slowly, painstakingly, he aligned the jagged pieces, reinforcing the hearts structure with meticulous precision. Minutes stretched into an hour as he worked, his mind sharp despite the mental strain. Each fragment slid into place, the cracks fusing into a smooth, whole surface. Every time he completed placing one fragment carefully, his entire body shuddered. It took him everything to do so, but he pushed himself further and further. And when he completed the final connection, a gentle pulse reverberated through his bodya sign that his Mana heart was finally whole again. Kai opened his eyes and let out a slow breath, a genuine smile filled with fatigue spreading across his face. For the first time in weeks, he felt complete. His mana flowed freely, unrestrained and balanced, as if a dam had been lifted. he thought, flexing his fingers and feeling the hum of energy coursing through him. The thought of advancing filled him with anticipation. The upcoming battles demanded more strength, and before getting his Enforcer status, he would have to rely heavily on his Mage abilities. But now, with his Mana heart restored, he was ready to push forward. A sharp knock on the carriage door pulled him from his thoughts. He turned his head toward the sound, his brow arching slightly. Come in, he said. The door creaked open slightly, and Claire peeked her head inside. Her brown hair shimmered faintly in the campfire light. She looked at him with a polite expression that was tinged with a bit of urgency. Lord Arzan, Ragnar and Brugnar are here and they want to talk to you. Kai nodded, setting his feet back on the floor and brushing off his robes. Alright. Through the slightly open door, he caught a glimpse of the camp they had set up for the night. The flicker of campfires illuminated the tents, and the rest of the area was quite busy with activity. After a full day of traveling, they were closedangerously closeto the barbarian territory. Due to that, he had already expected both the barbarians to come meet him. Have them come in, he instructed Claire. She nodded and stepped back to relay the message. A minute later, the door to the carriage opened wider, and Ragnar and Brugnar stepped inside. Their large, imposing frames seemed to fill the small space as they sat down opposite Kai, shaking the carriage in the process. Both men dipped their heads in a slight bow before glancing at one another, a silent exchange passing between them. It was Ragnar who spoke first. Lord Arzan. Yes, what is it? He inched forward on the seat and clutched his hands in front of him. Kai couldnt tell. But he was about to find out. Were nearing the Lombard tribes territory. Wed like permission to move ahead from here. We understand you wouldnt want anyone to know of your... association with us. Kai leaned back slightly. He nodded. I understand. Youve fought valiantly in the battle, and your efforts wont be forgotten. Rest assured, Ill extend my generosity to your tribe when the time comes. Hearing this, Ragnars features softened slightly. He rubbed the back of his neck while hesitating for a moment before speaking again. If thats the case, my lord... may I request something of you? Kais gaze didnt waver as he responded, Speak. Ragnar bowed again, this time deeply. His head touched his knees and he kept it there while talking, I wanted to apologize for my earlier conduct. For what I did... raiding your tents when we first crossed paths. I forgot the code of the valiant Lombards and became nothing more than a cheap bandit. He straightened, his hands clenched tightly at his sides. For weeks now, since the beast wave, Ive thought long and hard about my actions. If I continue on that path, Ill be no better than the raiders and mercenaries who sully our name. Thats not who I want to benot who I should be. I seek your forgiveness and your guidance, my lord. Kais gaze lingered on Ragnar, weighing the sincerity in his words. The mans transformation wasnt surprising; many warriors found clarity after witnessing the devastation of a beast wave and the barbarian was young. Still, it was rare for someone like Ragnar to admit fault, let alone seek absolution. Therefore, he nodded slowly, not expecting such a heartfelt apology from someone like Ragnar. He studied the man for some more time. Ragnar had matured, and if his father had sent him on this journey with the hope of fostering that growth, then it seemed the effort had paid off. I understand why you had to turn to banditry, Kai said after a pause. You were chased out of your homes, stripped of your lands, and left with no other path. Survival does not leave much room for honor. Ragnar lowered his head, his voice steady but heavy. Yes, I was weak. We all were. Thats why I need to ask something of yousomething that Ive thought long and hard about. Lord Arzan, please... allow me to take you as my master. I want to be like Knight Killian and the others who follow your command. This is my most earnest request. Kai raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the sudden plea. His gaze flicked to Brugnar, who stood beside Ragnar without any sign of surprise. They must have discussed this beforehand. Turning his attention back to Ragnar, Kai spoke with measured clarity. You need to understand something, Kai said. Youre not a Mage or a Blessed one as your people call them. I cant take you as an apprentice, not in the way youre imagining. As for becoming an Enforcer... not everyone has the aptitude. It takes more than willpower; theres only a slim chance youd even have the potential. Ragnar hesitated, his fists clenched at his sides, before speaking with gritted teeth as if something was holding him back. Even if theres only a slim chance, Im ready to do whatever it takes. Anything. Kai shook his head immediately and sighed. Dont say words like that lightly, Ragnar. They carry weight, especially when spoken by someone like youthe son of your tribes leader. Your actions ripple further than you might realize. Kai observed Ragnar closely, his mind already turning over the implications of the conversation. Originally, he had planned to move slowly in bringing the Lombards into his fold, respecting their independence and their established way of life. The barbarians had their own system, one that could not be easily dismantled or controlled. But Ragnars words, his earnest request to follow Kai as a master, sparked something in his minda potential opportunity that could bring the entire Lombard tribe under his influence faster than he had expected. The idea formed quickly, and Kai made a decision. He couldnt just walk into their territory and force his will upon them. No, this required more subtlety, more finesse. Ragnars plea was the opening he needed, but it would require careful execution. Kais lips curled into a slight smile as he looked at the two men before him. The path to becoming an Enforcer is a secret Ive guarded carefully. Its not something I can simply hand over, especially not when its one of my trump cards. So, Ragnar, youll have to understand that this isnt something I can just give to you. Ragnars expression faltered at those words, disappointment flickering in his eyes, but Kai wasnt finished. However, Kai continued, leaning forward slightly, there might be a way to make this happen. But for that, I would need to speak with your father, not you. I dont think you hold the power to make such a decision on your own. Ragnars face shifted, confusion and uncertainty clouding his features, but he remained silent. Brugnar, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. His voice was deep with a hint of curiosity in his tone. So, are you saying youll follow us to our tribe and speak to our chieftain, Yafgar? Kai shook his head. No, I wont just speak to him, he replied, I will challenge him to a duel. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 150. A Chieftain’s duty Kai hadn''t been idle when it came to the barbarians. Their first encounter was tense, a powder keg waiting for a spark. The chieftain''s deep-set scowl and the warriors'' intimidating stares had made it clear that a single wrong word could lead to bloodshed. For a brief, charged moment, Kai had considered unleashing his arrows over them. But the moment passed, replaced by something unexpected: a willingness to work together. That single thread of cooperation had been enough to pique Kais interest. He tasked Francis and started gathering intel about them. The reports had been enlightening and out of all of them, one thing had taken his interestbarbarians held a tradition called the Duel of Blood in almost sacred regard. Decisions of great importance were not made through debate or negotiation but through raw displays of strength. Ragnar and Brugnar, whod probably seen a lifetime of such duels, confirmed as much. Kai had found it crude. Strength, while valuable, wasnt always the marker of sound decision-making. It needed logic, but well, he wasnt in a position to impose his ideals. After all, duels for resolving disputes were not uncommon in Mage circles. Those often occurred over petty grievances or wounded pride, yet no one questioned their validity. If participating in a Duel of Blood was the price for influencing the chieftain, Kai was more than willing to pay it. Confidence coursed through himconfidence in his power and the capabilities of his Enforcers. It was some hours before sunrise when Kai assembled his group. The predawn chill clung to the air. Hed called up Gareth and the mercenaries, and told them to be ready early in the morning. Were heading to the barbarian territory. Itll be just us for now. Stick together, and stay sharp, had been his exact words. And since the territory was nearby, hed decided that theyd just walk. Soon, after a little amount of sleep, theyd woken up and started moving. The road was eerily quiet, the world around them bathed in shades of grey. Their footsteps were the only noise that kept them company. Wind rustled past them and there were no signs of any beast around. After a time, Gareth broke the silence. Lord Arzan, you said were meeting the barbarians. Yet you also told me to bring my weapon. Do you think Ill need to fight? I thought our relationship with them wasnt bad. Kai glanced at Gareth, without breaking his pace. Youre right; our relationship isnt bad. But Id like you to display your strength once we get there. Not just you, but Gorak and the others as well, he said and looked at the rest of the mercenary team. Gareth frowned but nodded. Thats simple enough. But walking like this It will take a while to get there, isnt it? Kais lips quivered faintly. Perhaps, but I believe our rides will be arriving soon. As soon as Kai said it, the loud noise of hooves broke through their thoughts. Two massive beasts came from the haze. Their bodies were of a bull with two large curved horns jutting out of their heads. They had no tails and their snorts sent clouds of mist in the cold air. Bulldrakes. Strength of bulls and the speed of horses, they were extremely interesting creatures and one of the rare ones that could be tamed. On their backs sat two barbarians, covered with thick fur and armed heavily. They slowed down when they noticed them before stopping right in front of them. Halt! one of the riders barked, his piercing gaze sweeping over the group before landing on Ragnar and Brugnar. His expression softened briefly, though suspicion lingered as his eyes flicked to Kai. Ragnar, Brugnar and the Blessed One. What are you doing here? Kai saw the man having the same tribal tattoo synonymous with the barbarians on his shaved head. Ragnar stepped forward and cleared his throat. Im returning home after fighting the beast wave, he declared, gesturing toward Brugnar. As you can see, my uncle and I have been successful. As for him he nodded toward Kai. he wishes to speak with my father. The riders exchanged uneasy glances, the lead one shaking his head. Outsiders are not permitted in the camp. You know the rules, Ragnar. Brugnar stepped forward, his deep voice cutting through the tension like an axe. Its fine. I permit it. I hold enough sway to make this exception. Lets not waste time herewe need to reach the camp. The riders hesitated for a moment before nodding. Very well, one of them said reluctantly. But if anything goes wrong It wont, Brugnar said firmly, leaving no room for argument. The group mounted the bulldrakes one by one, their powerful frames shifting slightly under the added weight but showing no sign of strain. Kai ran his hand along the beasts thick skin before getting behind the rider. Kai had never encountered beasts like these in his previous life. The way they movedsteadily, confidentlyover rocky paths and uneven terrain was nothing short of remarkable. As they climbed higher into the mountain range, Kais analytical mind buzzed with possibilities. , he thought to himself. Their resilience and speed would give any army a significant edge. Maybe once he had the barbarians working for him, he could make the plan a reality. But for now, he focused on first objective as the bulldrakes continued to climb the mountain. *** The morning light seeped through the clouds, colouring the entire mountain in a golden hue. The path wound through narrow cliffs and jagged outcroppings, the chill air biting against their skin. Despite the rough terrain, the bulldrakes moved with an unyielding grace, their heavy hooves gripping the stone with precision. At last, they emerged into a clearing. Nestled against the mountainside was the barbarian camp, its position was strategic. A towering cliff shielded it on three sides, while a sturdy wooden wall enclosed the rest. The scent of smoke and roasted meat wafted through the air, mingling with the aroma of pine. As the group approached the gate, the barbarians stationed there straightened. One of them stepped forward, his face breaking into a grin at the sight of Ragnar. Ragnar, youre back! Ragnar leapt down from his mount easily, with the practice of doing it a thousand times before. Open the gates, he said brusquely. We have guests, and I need to speak with my father. Where is he? By his tent, as usual, the guard replied, moving to open the gate. The heavy wooden gates creaked open, and the party rode into the camp. The presence of the bulldrakes, coupled with the arrival of Ragnar and Brugnar, drew immediate attention. Barbarians began to gather, their conversations a mix of curiosity and excitement. Some of them pointed at him. But Kai kept his head forward, not wanting to seem interested in their conversations. Though, his ears picked up on their loud voices. Thats him. The one who called down a rain of fire upon us. We barely made it out alive thanks to the chieftain. I heard he rules the parts around here and slaughters anyone who goes against him, another said. Hes the Blessed One, isnt he? Why has Ragnar brought him and his people here? Kai kept his expression neutral, but inwardly, he was intrigued. For the rest of the small ride, Kai chose to ignore all of those conversations and focused on the small tents they passed. They only went for around a hundred meters before Ragnar motioned for everyone to dismount. Come. My father will want to meet you. He looked at Kai, who simply nodded. The whispers around them grew louder. The gathered crowd parted as they neared the largest tent in the camp, its size and placement marking it unmistakably as the chieftain''s domain. Just as they reached the entrance, the heavy curtain flapped open, revealing a large figure with broad shoulders and a presence that demanded attention. Yafgar swirled his tongue over his teeth and clacked them loudly as his sharp eyes landed on Ragnar. A flick of expression passed by his eyes for a brief moment. Kai noticed it. "I heard a commotion outside but didnt realize youd be back so soon," Yafgar said, his deep voice carrying easily over the murmuring crowd that gathered around them. His gaze swept over Ragnars form, taking in the smaller scars that dotted his sons arms and face, souvenirs from the beast wave. It seems like youve fought valiantly, as I instructed. You didnt lose any parts of you, I see. Ragnar straightened, pride and respect evident in his stance. No, Father. I came close to losing them, he admitted, but I was able to survive and give back to the beasts as you instructed. Good, Yafgar grunted, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. His eyes shifted to Kai and his companions, his expression growing unreadable. And I see youve brought guests. Before Ragnar could respond, Kai stepped forward calmly. If he was going to put himself as more than an equal to Yafgar, he needed to take control of the situation. The attention of the gathering barbarians snapped to him, their stares pressed against him like a tide. Yes, chieftain, Kai said, his voice firm but respectful. Ive come here because I have a proposition for you and your tribeone I believe is worth your consideration. I wish to discuss it with you personally. Yafgar tilted his head slightly, his eyes searching for Kais. What kind of proposition? Kai didnt flinch under the scrutiny. Your future. For a moment, Yafgar didnt respond. His gaze drifted to the tribe members gathering nearby, their curious eyes fixed on the exchange. He grunted, the sound deep and thoughtful. If thats the case, Yafgar finally said. Then we should discuss it properly. It is our tradition to talk of important matters over food. Kai inclined his head. Of course. The chieftain gestured for them to follow, leading the group to one of the campfires where a bubbling cauldron of stew rested on a bed of fire. The savoury aroma of spices and slow-cooked meat filled the air, making Kais stomach rumble. Barbarians sat around the fire, eating from simple wooden bowls, their conversations quieting as the chieftain approached. A space cleared out for them in the centre of it. Kai followed Yafgars steps and sat around the bonfire. Soon, the chieftains hand swept across the air, a silent command to his warriors. Without hesitation, one of the nearby barbarians stood and began distributing bowls to the group. As the stew was handed over, the aroma wafted up to Kais nose, rich and earthy with a hint of smoke. He took the bowl, cupping it in his hands for a moment, the warmth radiating against his skin. Bringing it to his lips, he took a cautious sip. The taste was bold, with layers of flavour that danced across his tonguegamey, savoury, and surprisingly rich, with just a hint of spice. Even the food screamed their no-nonsense way of life in a weird way. The nearby barbarians nodded at him, their approval clear. He guessed that eating their food was a sign of being allies rather than enemies. Kais gaze flickered to Yafgar, who had taken a similar gulp from his bowl, his eyes sharp as ever. So, the chieftain said, looking at Kai with an almost expectant calm, what do you want to talk about? You say its about our future, so it must be something serious. I hope you wont disappoint me. I dont think I will. He set his bowl down, the words he''d prepared coming to him naturally. Moreover, this is something Ive already discussed with Ragnar and Brugnar, and they both seem to be on the same page. Yafgar''s eyes flicked to his son and his second-in-command, a brief flicker of curiosity crossing his weathered face. Is that so? he muttered, looking back at Kai. But I am the one who decides here. He grunted, his gaze hardening. Ive been tasked by the elements to do so. Kai nodded. I know. Thats exactly why I came here to meet you. I want to ask you something first. Alright, then, go ahead. Kai gulped but quickly composed himself. What do you think is in the future of the barbarians? Yafgar grunted as soon as the words left Kais mouth. A silence spread between them as he kept his eyes on Yafgar. Just when he thought hed be served with a fat bowl of , the chieftain spoke, Im not a seer. You dont have to be, Kai replied and inhaled deeply. What he was about to say next, wouldnt be the easiest thing to hear as a leader of a tribe, but he knew he had to let it out if he wanted to get his way. He looked around at the people who were silently waiting for him to continue and his eyes met with Yafgars once again. But you can see the direction your tribe is heading. You understand whats going on. You sent Ragnar to fight for me for a reason. You dont want your young generation to fall into banditry and fade from warriorhood. Even though you know you cant live in Sylvan Enclave forever. Trouble is coming. Nobles, mercenaries, theyll be hired to hunt you down, and youll be running away yet again. The chieftains face darkened, his fists tightening around the edges of his bowl. Are you here to threaten us out of our new home? he asked, his voice hardening with suspicion. Kai shook his head slowly, meeting the chieftains glare with a quiet confidence. No, Im not here to threaten you. Im here to offer you a new home. His voice grew stronger, his words cutting through the tension in the air. Your tribes future is bleak, Yafgar. I know you dont want an outsider to say it, but thats the truth. And Im here to offer you a solution. The chieftains lips pressed into a thin line, his gaze narrowing. And that is by coming under you? His words were sharp, cutting through the air with the challenge they held. Kais eyes didnt waver. I will take the reins, yes. But Ill give you enough independence to allow your people to thrive, to grow once more as warriors. He leaned back slightly, letting his words sink in. You would have the freedom to build a future for your peopleunder my protection, under my bannerbut still with the autonomy you need. Yafgar remained silent for a long moment, his thoughts clearly turning over Kais proposal. Finally, he grunted, a bitter edge to his voice. No. We are not sellswords. Kais expression softened slightly, though his resolve remained unshaken. I wont use you like one, he said simply. And Im not just asking you to join me for nothing. If you do, I can give you something your tribe has never had access to before. He looked around at the gathered barbarians, making sure they all heard him, loud and clear. I can offer you the blessings of the elements. Power unlike anything youve known, something that will ensure the survival of your people for generations to come. The chieftains gaze fixed on Kai with a sharp, incredulous look, as if the very suggestion was preposterous. Murmurs rippled through the crowd, growing louder with each passing second, some barbarians exchanging looks, whispering harshly among themselves. Words like and floated through the air, tinged with disbelief. The whispers continued to get louder, noticing Kais silence. But Kai remained unshaken, his posture steady and his voice unwavering. Ragnar and Brugnar have already experienced this power firsthand, he said, his voice cutting through the chatter. And I can give you a living example, right here. Im not speaking without results. The chieftains sceptical expression hardened, and just as his eyes narrowed, Kai turned to Gareth. Youre up. Sar?h the N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Gareth, who had been quietly observing the exchange, quickly finished the last of his soup and set the bowl aside. Yafgars brow furrowed. What are you trying to do? Just watch, Kai replied calmly. With a focused breath, Gareth walked up to a large boulder by the side and raised his sword, the blade crackling with purple energy. A deep hum resonated with everyone, including Kai as the weapon glowed. With a swift and powerful swing, Gareth cleaved through the giant boulder. The ground trembled as the massive rock split in half, sending pieces flying in every direction. A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, their eyes wide with shock. Whispers filled the air, and then came the words that Kai had been waiting for: A Blessed One! Hes a Blessed One! Kai remained unaffected by the flurry of exclamations around him. He turned back to Yafgar, his expression composed, though his words carried the weight of what he had just proven. As you can see, this man isnt a Mage like me, but he can still wield the elements. This power, this blessing, would be available to your people. He let the words sink in for a moment before adding, And if you still have any doubts, Ill gladly challenge you to a Duel of Blood. I will prove, with the elements as our witness, that I am offering nothing but a hand of friendship. Yafgars gaze was fixed on Gareth, his expression hardening as the realization began to settle in. What if I still dont accept? Yafgar finally asked, his voice a low growl, as though challenging Kai. Kai didnt flinch. Instead, he smiled, the expression a little colder than before, but still full of quiet confidence. Then, unfortunately, I dont think the Lombards will have much of a future. Kai saw the tick of Yafgars jaw, clearly affected by his words. Im offering you a choice, Kai added, his tone softening just enough to be heard over the murmurs, but if you choose to reject it, dont say I didnt warn you about whats coming. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 151. A duel of blood For a minute, it felt like even the world was holding its breath. Yafgars face muscles tightened and made his eyes twitch. His brows furrowed and finally, an extremely sharp glare that could have cut air pointed at Kai. Brugnar, who was next to the chieftain had his hand clutched-white-knuckled around the hilt of his dagger. He spat tobacco remains on the ground with venom in his eyes. Ragnar''s face went white as he looked between Kai and his father. Although Kai had explained his thoughts to them, they hadn''t been prepared for his bluntness. Sarch* The Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His thoughts soon vanished to thin air as he saw the barbarians around him exchanged glances of suspicion and alarm, several already retrieving their weapons with sharp, swift motions. On Kais side and without his commands, Gareth and the mercenaries mirrored the tension. Shields shifted into place, weapons slid from sheaths, and a subtle shift in formation signaled their readiness to defend. The atmosphere was heavy, a coiled spring on the verge of snapping. If this continued for a few more seconds Yafgar raised his hand sharply, his voice cutting through the burgeoning chaos. Is that a threat? It was a simple question. Kai shook his head, knowing the depth behind those four words. No, its not, Im not here to threaten you, but to offer you a path forward. I have already said so. Youre in foreign lands, cut off from your home. If you want to survive and thrive, you need more than these mountains. You need backinga place to grow. And Im not just offering you refuge; Im offering you something no one else in this world can. He gestured subtly toward Gareth. Youve seen the proof for yourself. If you doubt me, ask your son. The rest of the barbarians seemed to pick up on the formal tone of the conversation, prompting them to lower their weapons to where they belonged. All eyes, including the chieftains, turned toward Ragnar. Is it true? he asked. Ragnar nodded solemnly. He stepped forward and placed his hand on his chest. Ive seen it myself, Father, he said. Hes telling the truth. Lord Arzan can bless warriors without the gift of magic. Its a power similar to that of Mages but different... and just as destructive. Yafgars hand relaxed, but his expression remained guarded. Kai knew one slip of a word could end up shedding blood and tears, painting the mountain ground with wet, fresh, crimson life-fluid. He steadied himself, eyeing the chieftain''s next words. Your kingdom hates us, Yafgar said coldly. To your crown, we are raidersbarbarians in name and deed. Warmongers. Cavemen. Theyll never accept us. Never! Kai sat straighter from where he was and looked at him squarely. Thats my responsibility to deal with, not yours, he said. I give you my word that I will make it work. You know Im honorable. Youve seen it that day or you wouldn''t send your son to fight in the beast wave. The chieftain sighed, that one breath felt like it held centuries worth of pain. I do know, he admitted. But this isnt about you. This is about my peopletheir survival, their future. I cant make such a decision lightly. He paused, his eyes locked on Kai but his mind running miles. You spoke of a duel of blood, he said slowly. Can you truly prove yourself in such a sacred trial? If you fail, it will cost your life. Kais lips curled into a confident smile. He inclined his head and placed his hand on his chest, mimicking what Ragnar had done before, showing his respect. Im prepared, he said. But I wont fight you myself. Im a Mageit would be an unfair fight. Ill use a proxy instead. Yafgars brows lifted in surprise. A proxy? Who would fight in your place? Kais hand extended, pointing toward Gorak, who stood quietly among the mercenaries, his presence radiating raw strength. Him. Yafgar looked at Gorak and looked at Kai back again. Are you sure? If youre so confident, why not use this blessed warrior? He gestured toward Gareth, whose display of power still lingered fresh in the minds of the gathered crowd. The split boulder laid broken behind him. Kai shook his head, appearing calm and collected. Gareth is an experienced Enforceror as you call him, a blessed warrior. Hes very experienced. Pardon me, Im not underestimating your ability if it appears so, but his powers might not provide the clarity we need to see the right outcome. And Gorak has recently become an Enforcer. He cant yet wield most of his powers or affinities, but his body is already far stronger than that of a normal warrior. Hes the best suited for this clash. And it seems to be the best fit in my eyes. The chieftains sharp eyes moved to Gorak, sizing him up. A moment of silence passed, the tension thick in the air. Finally, Yafgar let out a deep breath and nodded. Very well. He will do it. But understand thisif he loses, it will be clear that your conviction isnt strong enough to guide us. Kai smiled once again, not once losing his calm exterior. I believe it is. You dont have to worry. With a nod, Yafgar barked an order. Clear out the space! Well settle this properly. The crowd quickly sprang into action, clearing an open area near the edge of the camp. The spot chosen for the duel was rugged, with uneven ground and jagged rocks scattered across the periphery, lending an almost primal aura to the setting. Barbarians and Kais retinue alike formed a tight circle around the makeshift arena, their heavy boots crunching against the gravel. The low murmur of voices faded, replaced by a tense, expectant silence as the crowd settled into place. Suddenly, the nervous energy was replaced by the excitement in the air. He saw a lot of barbarians talking in hushed voices among themselves while pointing at both him and Gorak. His eyes moved away from the arena towards the approaching mercenary leader. Gorak''s face stood stoic as ever, no tension visible in his shouldersalmost as if he didn''t have any battle with a barbarian chieftain. Ill do my best, he said, as soon as he stepped closer. Kai nodded and looked at him. Dont hold back. The chieftain is a seasoned warrior. Hed gone through as twice as things that wed collectively gone through so, the victory isnt guaranteed. Despite Kais not-so-very motivational thoughts, Goraks lips twitched into a small grin. I will win. I wanted to test my newfound strength without holding back anyway. Kai thought to himself and stepped backwards. He saw Gorak turn around and step into the dueling ground. For the fight, neither combatant wore anything more than the usual leather and hide armor. Both wielded axesthe chieftain gripping his own well-worn weapon, and Gorak trading his heavy club for an even larger, weightier axe. Brugnar stepped forward, taking the role of referee. His voice cut through everyones thoughts. The rules are simple! he started, This fight will end when one of the combatants is dead or surrenders," he announced, his eyes scanning both warriors, ensuring they understood the gravity of his words. "There is no time limit. There will be no interference. Fight with the elements in mind, and fight honorably. He paused for a moment, his gaze flicking over the assembled crowd, making sure his instructions were being absorbed. "No tricks, no dishonor. If any is witnessed, youll have to face the consequences and offer the win to the opposite party." Brugnar added, his gaze settling on the warriors. "You know the rules. Let the battle begin when the call is made. The warriors nodded in unison, their grips tightening on their weapons. A hush fell over the crowd as the two combatants faced each other. Every pair of eyes watched intently, waiting for the clash to begin. Begin! Brugnar yelled and the duel began. Yafgar stood still, his body relaxed but his eyes sharp, observing Gorak with the focus of a predator studying its prey. He didn''t raise his axe right away, instead allowing it to hang loosely in his grip as he subtly shifted his weight, always ready to respond to any move that might come his way. In contrast, Gorak surged forward with the force of a boulder, his heavy axe raised high. The sound of his boots crunching on the packed dirt echoed through the stillness, breaking the silence as he charged. With a powerful swing, his weapon descended in a mighty arc, filled with raw strength. The chieftain met the blow with his own axe, the clash of steel ringing out like thunder. The force behind Goraks strike pushed the chieftain back a full step, his feet digging into the earth to keep his balance. For a brief moment, Yafgars eyes widened, the realization of Goraks power clear in his expression. Gorak grinned, teeth flashing, and pressed on with another attack, more aggressive now that hed found an opening. This time, Yafgar ducked low, rolling to the side and coming up behind Gorak. His axe was ready, but he didnt strike. Instead, he circled, carefully observing. Gorak, unwilling to give an inch, immediately pivoted to face him, closing the distance with another series of brutal attacks. Each swing of his axe was thunderous, and the barbarians around the ring gasped in awe at the power of each blow. Yafgar danced away from most of them, his movements fluid and agile for his size. When he couldnt avoid the strike, he blocked with his axe, the clang of steel ringing out. Every time, a flicker of discomfort passed across his face before it was quickly masked by steely determination. Kai stood on the edge of the ring, his arms folded as his sharp gaze followed the fight. , he thought, eyes narrowing as he watched the chieftains movements. Yafgar wasnt just skilledhe was calculating, manipulating the fight. He wasnt wasting energy with unnecessary counterattacks, letting Gorak wear himself down with relentless offense while also learning his weak points. Yafgar wasnt just battling Gorak with strength. He was playing a mental game, trying to keep Gorak from predicting his next move by not revealing his fighting style or attack patterns. Despite his usual confidence, Kai couldnt ignore the growing doubt for Gorak. The mercenary had proven himself in countless battles, but this was different. The chieftains experience wasnt just in fightingit was in strategy and endurance. Kai noticed the small signs: the slight hesitation in Goraks strikes, the tightening of his grip on the axe, the winces when the chieftain blocked his blows. Though, he still felt confident in an Enforcers'' endurance and strength. The battle pressed on, each clash louder and more frenzied than the last. Goraks breath became heavier, sweat glistening on his skin beneath the rising sun. His strikes were still strong, but Kai saw itthe cracks were starting to show. Goraks swings were slowing, his precision fading. Kai thought, holding his breath as the fight wore on. The sounds of clashing axes and the labored breathing of the warriors filled the air, the duel stretching past the twenty-minute mark. Neither Gorak nor the chieftain showed any visible injuries, but the tension in the air was thick, charged with each narrowly avoided strike and perfectly timed block. Gorak stood firm, his chest rising and falling steadily, his eyes still burning with the same intensity as when the fight began. His stamina hadnt faltered, and the crowdalong with the chieftainbegan to realize this wasnt normal. Yafgar, though still sharp, was finally starting to show signs of fatigue. His shoulders sagged slightly with each dodge, and the tightness in his jaw betrayed his growing frustration. Gorak swung again, heavy and precise. The chieftain dodged with fluid ease, stepping aside and retaliating with a vicious cleave aimed at Goraks side. But Goraks eyes flashed with anticipation. He twisted his torso and, with surprising agility, lifted his foot to deliver a powerful kick that landed squarely in the chieftains chest. The impact shook the ground, and Yafgar was sent crashing to the dirt, his weapon skidding out of reach. Gasps rippled through the crowd, several barbarians instinctively stepping forward before pausing, unsure. He struggled to push himself up, but Gorak was already upon him. With the speed of a predator, he raised his axe high, bringing it down in a deadly arc. The crowd held its breath as the weapon descended like a hammer. At the last second, Yafgar managed to grab his axe, raising it just in time to block the blow. The clash echoed through the camp, and though he stopped the strike, the sheer power behind it made him cry out in pain. Gorak continued his assault, each blow coming faster than the last, battering the chieftains axe like a storm against a tree. The weapon groaned under the repeated impacts, dents forming in its surface with every strike. Kai watched closely, his sharp eyes catching every detail. Yafgars teeth were clenched in effort, his muscles trembling under the strain. The chieftains weapon, once sturdy, began to show signs of breaking under the pressure, until, with a final snap, the head of the axe broke clean off. Yafgars instincts kicked in. As Gorak brought his axe down for the final blow, he twisted and rolled, narrowly escaping the attack. The ground cracked where the blow landed, sending shockwaves through the camp. Dust and debris rose into the air, and for a moment, the entire crowd stood in stunned silence, staring at the broken earth and the figure at its center. The chieftain rose unsteadily, his chest heaving. His eyes locked onto Gorak, who stood calm and composed, his weapon resting on his shoulder, ready for the next move. There was no doubt now Gorak had already won. For a long moment, the camp was silent except for the crackle of the campfires. Then, Yafgar dropped what remained of his weapon, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender. His voice, when it came, was heavy with reluctant respect. I concede, he said and bowed before raising up. You win the fight. You are honorable in your conviction. The crowd erupted in murmurs and gasps, some cheering for the unexpected victory, others stunned into silence. Kai allowed a small, satisfied smile to curl at the corner of his lips. This was the moment he had been waiting for. More gasps rippled through the gathered barbarians, followed by murmurs of disbelief. It wasnt long before the tension in the crowd escalated. Chieftain, they must have cheated! a voice rang out from the crowd. Others quickly joined in, their cries fueled by disbelief. Theres no way you would lose without trickery! The duel isn''t honourable, chieftain! We need another fight! Kais eyes flicked toward the outbursts, his expression calm, though his hand subtly rested on the shaft of his spear. The crowds accusations grew louder, swelling into a cacophony of outrage. Enough! Yafgar yelled. The barbarians fell silent almost immediately, their gazes dropping as their leader stepped forward, his tone laced with unyielding authority. Who do you think I am? His sharp glare swept over the dissenters, making even the boldest among them avert their eyes. Huh? Would I allow any trickery in my own arena?! Thats right! I wont. I lost because my opponent was stronger. There was no trickery, no dishonor. It was a fair battle, and I will hear no more of this nonsense! The crowd murmured their reluctant acquiescence as the chieftain turned toward Kai. Despite his disheveled appearance and the fatigue in his limbs, his stride was steady, his pride unbroken. You have strong warriors under you, he said, his voice quieter but no less commanding. Kai inclined his head respectfully, a faint smile playing on his lips. They do well, but it would be wrong of me to claim their strength is purely their own. Much of it comes from their abilities as Enforcers, or as you might call them, blessed warriors. Gorak has always been strong, but becoming an Enforcer made him a different kind of beast. It gave him power and stamina beyond what he ever thought possible. The chieftain nodded slowly, his gaze flicking to Gorak, who stood silently nearby, still holding his battered axe. Is it true that each of us could gain such power? Kai shook his head and smiled apologetically. Not everyone, no. But I can send Mages from my retinue here to test your people. Theyll determine who among you has the potential to become Enforcers. Im certain there will be quite a few. Yafgars brow furrowed in thought. A force of Enforcers would be formidable indeed, he admitted. After a pause, his voice once again rang. But how do you know we wont use these powers against you? Kais smile widened slightly, tinged with confidence. I believe in your honor, he said simply. Without trust, there can be no partnership. Although we havent worked out all the details, I know this much Trust is the foundation of success. And so, I offer you mine first. The chieftain regarded Kai carefully, then looked around at his people. His gaze lingered on Ragnar, whose piercing stare was fixed intently on him, silently urging him to make the right choice. After a long moment, Yafgar turned back to Kai, his expression resolute. Very well, he said, his voice steady. If all youve said proves true, and we can come to terms, the Lombards will consider standing under your banner. If it means giving us a new lease on life, we will accept it. Kais smile broadened. You wont regret it. Ill send my delegates and Mages here as soon as possible. I believe more Enforcers will be the need of the hour. Yafgar raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Why do you say that? Kais gaze turned distant for a moment, as if he were looking beyond the horizon. Because, he said, his voice quiet but heavy with meaning, we have a lot of battles ahead of us. And I intend for us to win them all. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n Annual Membership Patreon Hello everyone, I would first like to thank you all for reading and helping me out on my journey to be a writer and work on Magus Reborn. I started this last year and the Amazon release will come this year, but I''m not here to talk about that. A good friend of mine Old Folks (Ultimate level 1) recommended I set up an annual membership for my readers on patreon with 20 percent discount so if you buy it, you are only paying for 10 months but getting the advanced chapters for a year. I have already turned the feature on the patreon and if anyone of you is interested they can take a look at my patreon. For your information, you would also get Dao of Money annual subscription for the same price. Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n I hope a few of you would be interested in this. Even if you aren''t, thank you so much for reading Magus and giving so many kind comments. 152. Blackwood Kais stay with the barbarians was curt. Though he had won the Duel of Blood and earned their respect, he knew that the hard part was only beginning. Yafgar, the chieftain, seemed to see his visionat least on the surfacebut creating an alliance (a trusted one at that) of the magnitude he needed would take more than spilt blood and shared words. They would need to hold necessary future meetings to discuss the details and negotiate their relationship for mutual gain before the barbarians could come under his flag. That would take time, and for now, the only thing left was for Kai to task Francis on it, and trust his sharp tongue and knack for negotiation. Once Kai returned to the camp to head towards the Blackwood territory, he sent a guard to inform him about the latest events. He knew Francis wasn''t the happiest about Kai going away, but he was sure that hed be satisfied with the new alliancesespecially when it was the barbarians, seasoned warriors who would come in handy in the future. Among several good things, the best part was that no one would ever suspect the barbarians of siding with him. Their reputation as a fiercely independent and tight-knit community made them unapproachable to outsiders. Barbarians rarely, if ever, extended trust beyond their own ranks, let alone entertained the idea of forming alliances. The thought of such a group joining hands with anyone outside their own was almost laughable to most. This perception worked in Kais favour, making their involvement in his plans an unexpected advantage. To maintain their secrecy, Kai had taken every precaution to hide Ragnar and Brugnar within his territory. He insisted they pose as ordinary mercenaries, blending into the background to avoid drawing any attention. He knew that even a hint of their true identities could ruin his plans. And it worked well in the end. Though, there were still concerns. Barbarians were still considered enemies in the kingdom and siding with them could raise questions on him too, and Kai knew that he would have to deal with them in the future. Fortunately, he did have plans on how to handle that. With the brief conversation with the barbarians concluded Kai shifted his attention to his journey and rising his power. He settled into a steady routine and got himself to the process of creating his next mana circle. This time, he wanted it to be perfectand that required both focus and stability. The sway of the carriage and the noise of the wheels became a backdrop for his concentration quite easily, and he tuned out from the world outside. Fortunately, the group rarely stopped for breaks. They wanted to reach their destination as soon as possible and since Kai wasn''t journeying with them publicly, he mostly stayed in the carriage, working on his circle. The mercenaries alongside Knight Darian and his guards proved more than capable of handling any threat; be it beasts, bandits or any other form of trouble. The roads beyond the Sylvan Enclave were a surprising contrast to what theyd left behind. They were well-maintained and busy with the activities of merchants. Due to the smoothness, they were able to fasten their journeyand once they got close to Blackwood territory, he shifted his attention from establishing his next mana circle and studying more into ice spells to learning the current political state of the kingdom. sea??h th ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai knew he needed to get better with politics, as much as he detested it. Ansel and the Watchers had been tireless, using Maldens wide network to gather information that could shift the balance. They had already collected a lot of information, filled with everything from updated maps of the kingdom to rumors from merchants and nobles. And every piece of information uncovered more about hidden political relationships, prominent merchants that were rising up to nobles, their alliancesand practically anything that would affect the succession even a little bit. A big part of the reports was about Duke William Blackwood. With their meeting coming up, Kai needed to know more about the manand thankfully, Ansel had dug up some pretty interesting details. The fact that stood out the most was that Duke Blackwood hadnt backed any prince for the throne. That neutrality made him someone other nobles saw as unpredictable and at the same time, the princes kept trying to gain his favour since having more than one Duke in their factions would guarantee their victory. Kais lips curled into a faint smirk as he read Ansels latest report. Beside him, Claire sat with her legs crossed, idly flipping through a small notebook. She tilted her head to glance at him, What are you reading, Lord Arzan? she asked, breaking the comfortable silence. Kai looked up, and folded the parchment in his hands. Reports on Duke Blackwood, he replied simply, setting the letter down amidst a pile of maps and scribbled notes. Claire raised her eyebrows. Were meeting him soon, arent we? She leaned forward and let her eyes scan the papers sprawled across the seat next to him in the carriage. Is all this preparation to use against him? Kai nodded. Youre not wrong, he admitted, leaning back in his seat. But if Ansels information is accurate, I dont think the meeting itself will be the hard part. Then what will be? Convincing him to support me, Kai said in a very matter-of-fact tone. Duke Blackwood has rejected every princes overtures so far. They all want him in their corner, but hes stayed neutral. I could just imagine the amount of persuasion tactics he dealt with. Claire tilted her head slightly and leaned forward, seemingly looking very interested now. Is there a reason behind why he doesn''t want to support a prince? Kai looked up from the letter in his hands, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. He didnt immediately respond, choosing instead to tap the letter against his fingers in thought. From the intel Ansel gathered, he began slowly, theres a few reasons why Duke Blackwood has stayed so adamantly neutral. First off, William Blackwood is a man of very strong principles. Hes righteous, in his own way. He has a set of values that he adheres to, almost fanatically. Kais gaze grew distant as he spoke, his voice turning more contemplative. All the princesevery one of themare tainted in some way. Theyre all filled with corruption, ambition, and dirty secrets. And for someone like Duke Blackwood, who stands by his ideals, thats a huge problem. He needs someone he can actually believe in. Someone who will stand for something beyond just power and personal gain. Kais fingers ran along the edge of the letter, the paper crinkling slightly as his eyes drifted to the next one. He didnt speak for a moment, absorbed in the details of the history Ansel had provided. Claire, sensing his pause, waited patiently. Finally, Kai continued, his voice taking on a more analytical tone as he turned through another page of the report. I believe a major part of his reluctance to side with any prince has to do with the history of his house. House Blackwood wasnt always this powerful, this influential. In fact, almost a century ago, they were on the brink of collapse. They were losing their grip, and no one stepped forward to help them. Not the other noble houses, not even the factions they once had ties with. In fact, they were mockedlaughed at, evenas they fell deeper into ruin. Claires brow furrowed slightly, taking in the details. She stayed silent, absorbing his words as he paused, his fingers tracing the map. The turning point came when the current head of House Blackwood, Duke William Blackwood, took control. His house was barely holding on by threads when he ascended to power. But William Blackwood did what no one else could. He didnt just sit back and wait for favor to come. He fought in wars, made strategic alliances, and even reformed the economy of his land. The most important of these moves was when he invested in a port citya critical trade route that connected his land to different islands. It took years of hard work, and a significant amount of resources, but it turned his fortunes around. He paused, looking at Claire for a moment before continuing. Thats why he married late, too. He didnt want to be distracted by alliances through marriage until he had restored his houses glory. He couldnt afford to settle for anything less than complete control over his own fate. Thats something the other princes will never understand. They have it handed to them on a silver platter. "So, an idealistic, experienced man of zeal who doesnt trust the other nobles, yet has no reason to actively support Veralt," she said while tapping her chin. "Sounds like a hard man to sway, unless you can give him something more than just your usual political promises." Kai shifted slightly, looking down at the letters spread out before him. He could almost feel the stress of the upcoming encounter with Duke Blackwood hanging in the air. "Well, I do think he sees me in a positive light, but some things don''t make sense. He probably sent Knight Darian and the other men to fight for Veralt, fully expecting they wouldn''t return alive. I dont know why he sent Darian to an early grave, but that was his way of paying back the debt of killing the necromancer. A heavy price for that, but in his eyes, it was necessary." Claire nodded at his words. She squinted her eyes before throwing an assumption at him. "So, do you think Knight Darian and his men were punished for something?" Kai nodded. "When we won against the beast wave, and many of his men survived, it probably made Duke Blackwood take a renewed interest in me. Im not sure if its the victory or the fact that his people fought and survived under my command, but he wants to know me better. Understand where I stand. And Leopold I believe his son also put a good word for me after our time in the capital. That gives me a solid base to work with. But even without Leopold, Im confident I can win the duke over." Can I know why you are sure about that, Lord Arzan? Claire asked. Kais smile widened. "Its simple, really. Duke Blackwood and I have something in commonwe both despise necrotic creatures and dead mana. He has a deep hatred for them, and so do I. Its something we dont need to speak too much about, but its a bond I can build on. When you hate something with the same intensity, it tends to bring people together." *** Amyra felt like she was seeing a nightmare, but unlike a regular one, there was no sudden shift from dream to waking. Instead, she was stuck in an endless limbo, where every moment was indistinguishable and relentless. She tried to push her eyes open, but whatever it wasdidnt allow her. It wasnt a dream; it was her reality. And it was suffocating. Her gaze swept across the land before her, and a chill ran through her. Cracked roads, littered with bodies everywhere. The lifeless bodies were twisted in every way one could think possible. Her stomach churned at the sight. She looked at her feetdry, brittleCand every step felt wrong. The earth itself was rotting beneath her. Amyra turned her gaze at the horizonthe darkened clouds but deserted lands, with sands that had turned tar. She pushed aside the unease in the pit of her stomach and kept walking. Her eyes scanned the area, half-expecting the haunting figures to appearbut no, everything was still, so dead, so lifeless, so eerie. And then, the oceanthe ocean that was not blue but a deep, unnatural red, thick and cloying, as though the waters themselves were tainted with blood. The scent of decay and rot filled her nostrils, making every breath she took feel like she was suffocating, the stench crawling into her lungs and lodging there. It was unbearable, and yet, she couldnt escape it. There was no relief. She needed to escape thiswhatever this was, but she couldnt. Amyra took a step, then another, feeling her legs strain with each movement, but she couldn''t stop. There was no choice but to keep walking. Every time she faltered, every time she paused, the ground trembled beneath her, and a beast would emergea shifting form, fluid, monstrous, a nightmare of claws and rotted teeth. It was as if the very darkness around her had given birth to it. She tried to move faster, but it always found her. It always clawed at her, leaving deep raking marks across her skin, as though it was trying to drag her back into the abyss. Tears fell one after another, and her steps quickened. She ran, stumbling over rocks and twisted roots, never daring to look back, knowing the beast was always there, watching, waiting for her to falter. When she stopped, it would close in, drawing nearer with every second. She could hear her own voice as she called out for help, again and again, the names of those she cared for slipping from her lips. "Lord Arzan! Claire! Knight Killian! Rhea!" But the wind swallowed her words, and the only answer was the rustle of dead leaves and the echo of her own cries. No one came. She was alone. Again. But then, as her chest heaved with each desperate breath, a strange, nagging thought broke through the haze of panic. The beast. The endless land. The unrelenting stench. All of it was a cruel illusion. Her mind had trapped her in this place, this nightmare. She stopped, her breath ragged, but this time, the thought stayed. How could she escape? What had she done to find herself here, in this prison of her own mind? What path could she take to break free? Every instinct told her to keep running, to flee, but the question clouded her mind: She didnt know how long she walked. The world around her remained the sametainted, blackened, a wasteland of despair. She felt herself drifting further, deeper into a kind of numbness, until she found herself standing at the edge of the ocean again. The same cursed ocean, its blood-red waters, lapping against the jagged cliffs below. The cold wind howled around her, biting at her skin. She turned her face towards the horizon, the sense of finality growing stronger. It had all led to this moment. The beast would come. It always came. And she had no more strength to run. No more will to fight. , she thought. And then, as if summoned by her thoughts, it appeared. The beast. Amyras eyes widened. No matter how many times shed seen it, the image still scared herscarred her. Spiked skin, inhuman limbs, almost everywhere on its shifting body. Shiny, black eyesoozing blood. One moment, it was a shadowy mass of fur and claws, and next, it was skeletal and unnaturally long. The roar it let out shook the very ground. Amyra didn''t flinch. She turned slowly, fixing her gaze upon the creature as it moved closer. Its claws reached out for her, the air thick with the scent of decay and death. It struck, the claws raking toward her chest, but she didn''t move. She didnt even flinch. The strike landed. But there was no pain. No blood. Nothing. She stared at the beast, her gaze unwavering as its form shimmered, flickering like a broken image, before it vanished as suddenly as it had appeared. Amyra blinked, confused, the world around her suddenly feeling... wrong. Not like the usual wrong, but extremely Wrong. She took a step back, her feet catching the edge of the cliff, but she didnt fall. Instead, she felt the ground beneath her feet shudder. The sky above her seemed to tilt, the ocean boiling as it churned violently, splashing the cliffs with waves of dark, red water. The earth cracked, fissures splitting open, swallowing the land whole. And then, before she could react, the world . She tumbled, falling, her body weightless, spiraling down toward the bloodied ocean, the dark abyss opening wide beneath her. Her body screamed for release, her heart pounding, but she couldnt make herself open her eyes. She was too scared. Too terrified of what awaited her in the depths. And then She woke up. Her eyes flew open, heart racing. Her chest rose and fell erratically as she gasped for air, her body trembling with the remnants of the nightmare. She blinked, her vision blurry, as she tried to piece together the fragments of what had just happened. The familiar sight of her room greeted herplain, simple, but real. , she realized with a slow breath, relief washing over her. She was alive. The weight on her chest began to ease, but a fog lingered in her mind, clouding her thoughts. She lifted her shaky, sweaty hand, staring at it as though seeing it for the first time. The warmth of her skin, the softness of her clothesthis was real. She wasnt in that nightmare anymore. She was alive. But the lingering dread, the weakness in her limbs, and the haze clouding her mind told her that something was off. She slowly pushed herself out of bed, her legs buckling beneath her as she tried to stand. She gritted her teeth, forcing herself to remain upright, taking slow, weak steps toward the door. Her body protested, but she ignored it, pushing through the weakness. She opened the door, the empty corridor stretching before her, eerily silent. Where is everyone? Her voice whispered the question to the still air, but there was no answer. She stumbled down the hallway, hoping to find someone, anyone, who could tell her what had happened after the battle. If the castle stood, then she knew that they had survived. But she couldnt shake the feeling that something had changed. As she moved, the murmur of voices reached her ears. They were unfamiliar, distorted, floating through the halls like echoes. She paused, straining to make out the words, but they were muffled and unclear. Her heart raced as she followed the voices, bringing her closer to somethingsomeonewho could answer her questions. But as she neared the source of the voices, she felt the same uneasy feeling once again. Something wasnt right. As Amyra walked cautiously through the corridors, the unfamiliar voices began to grow clearer. They were coming from around the corner, muffled by the stone walls but still distinct enough to make her pause. She could make out the soft tones of a womans voice, tinged with gentle authority, and a deeper, steadier voice in reply. "You should rest more, Princess," the first voice advised, filled with concern. "Its too early to be roaming the estate." Amyras brow furrowed. The term "Princess" caught her attention, a sliver of confusion piercing through the fog in her mind. Her thoughts raced. Was there someone of importance here? She shook her head, refusing to be distracted by the oddity, though her curiosity pushed her to move closer. "Im not sick anymore," came the firm response. "Im healed. Im just too tired of staying in bed. Ive been doing it all my life." The words hung in the air, almost as if the speaker was trying to convince herself as much as the other person. Amyra, still unsure of the situation, cautiously rounded the corner, her legs still shaky from the ordeal of her awakening. And then, she saw them. Two figures stood before her in the hallway, just as she had expected. The first one stood straight, head held highwas a young woman, young but with an aura of nobility that radiated from her. Her long hair was pinned up, and her eyes met Amyra with a quiet intensity. She was dressed in silks, a gown of deep crimson. The other figure was a petite womana maid. Her hands were clasped behind her back, and her gaze was focused on Amyra, though not in a way that felt threatening. It was a look of observationof quiet assessment. Amyra blinked as the silence stretched. Before she could ask anything, the womanwho Amyra now assumed was the princessspoke up first, her voice cutting through the quiet. "Who are you?" she demanded. Amyra hesitated, taking a slow breath as she gathered her thoughts. She expected to find someone familiar to get her answers, but only these two stood before her with no signs of any other maids she knew. Her voice, when she finally spoke, was hoarse, still thick with the haze of her earlier confusion. "My name is Amyra," she said, her golden eyes flickering between the two strangers, trying to read their reactions. "Where can I find Lord Arzan?" *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Hope you all like the new cover. It''s the Amazon one. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 153. A new territory The world blurred into chaos the moment Amyra opened her eyes. Everything moved so fast it felt like she was trying to catch up with a story already halfway told. One moment, there was silenceher body heavy, her thoughts swimming through fogand the next, the princess and her maid was standing over her, summoning Knight Killian and a group of maids with a voice sharp enough to give her another slight headache. Everything was too loudand too messy for Amyra to relax, especially with the churning questions in her head. The maids ran in first, their hands and feet quick as they pulled her into her room and arranged it, pulling curtains open and letting sunlight flood in like an uninvited guest. Knight Killian strode in soon after, his armour clinking with every step. Before Amyra could speakbefore she could even process what was happeningKillians strong hands gently but firmly guided her back into bed. Stay, he commanded. She wanted to protest, to ask questions, but the swirl of activity left no room for her words. A healer was called, his name tossed into the air before she could even see his face, and a tray of food appeared at her side like magic. She hadnt realized it before, but hunger struck her like a bolt. It wasnt a soft, polite kind of hungerit was a gaping void, a black hole demanding to be filled. Before she knew it, her hands were moving, scooping up bread and fruit, her body acting on instinct. Relief flooded her entire body with every bite. And a small reprieve from the emptiness she hadnt noticed until right now, began to fade. All the while, Knight Killian stood nearby, arms crossed. But his eyes never left hers. The princess stayed too, her expression curious but unreadablemainly because she hadnt seen her before, ever. Amyra didnt know what the lady was thinking, or even assuming. Even the maids stayed back, their eyes flickering toward her now and then as if they couldnt believe she was awake. She propped the final piece of bread inside her mouth and gulped down the tumbler of water. Soon, the healer arrived. He was no Mage, no wielder of glowing runes or chanting spells, but his knowledge of the human body was evident in his sure movements. His hands pressed lightly against her arms, her wrists, her temples. He asked her questions she answered automatically, his tone was proof that hed done this at least a hundred times before. When he finally straightened, the verdict was delivered without hesitation. Youre fine. No signs of lingering damage. But... He frowned, his brows knitting together. You need to be monitored in case you relapse. Falling into a coma again would be... I wont, Amyra cut in. The dead world lingered at the edges of her mind, a hollow, lifeless void she had no intention of revisiting. Im done with that. The healer seemed unconvinced but didnt argue. He just packed his tools, gave a few final instructions to Knight Killian and the princess, and then left the room with a swish of his cloak. Finally, the whirlwind settled. The maids stepped back, lingering at the rooms edges, while the princess took a seat nearby, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Knight Killian remained where he was. Amyra looked at him and noticed the usual scowl masking his face. She drew in a slow breath. Well What happened? she asked at last. What happened to Veralt? The beast wave? The Vermorga? Killians expression softenedjust barely. He glanced briefly at the princess and maids and then back to Amyra. His eyes met hers with a kind smile. We won, he said. After you... passed out, things moved quickly. Lord Arzan killed the Vermorga. The rest of the beast wave was already thinning by then. The frays and the guards swept the streets, clearing out the scattered beasts. Its over now. Amyras chest tightened. Relief mingled with disbelief, but then she realised something. Does that mean... a lot of time has passed? Killian shook his head slowly, his armour catching the light with the movement. Not too long. Nearly two months. Youve been out for that long. He exhaled deeply, as if a weight he had carried for weeks was finally lifting. Amyra watched him carefully, noting the slight droop in his shoulders, the way his gaze lingered on her. The words echoed in her mind. The world had kept moving while she lay trapped in stillness, and now that she was awake, she would have to find her place in it once again. But for two months, shed lost a part of her life. Im sorry, Killians voice came in a low whisper. He cleared his throat and sighed. I wasnt able to protect you then. You were the one who ended up saving me... saving all of us. As a knight, I failed. Amyra blinked, caught off guard. His words tugged at a memory she wished she could burythe moment in the beast wave when the mana fiends had swarmed her, when shed felt death clawing at her heels. Knight Killian had been there, standing between her and the monsters. If it wasnt for him, she wouldnt even have a conscience to come backshed have been dead. She shook her head firmly. No. You did your best to protect me. It was me who was weak... the one who had to hide behind you. Dont be sorry, Knight Killian. Im very thankful to you. Truly Id feel awful if you kept burdening yourself with this. Killians jaw tightened, and he gave a small nod, but his eyes didnt meet hers. Amyra could see the storm of regret and questions flickering behind them. He wasnt ready to askmaybe he didnt know how tobut the question that couldnt be asked out loud hung heavy in the air. She knew what it was. Sarch* The N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. She hadnt lost her memories; she remembered everything from the battle, from the surge of power that had poured out of her in those final moments to the way it had turned the tide. It was only natural theyd want answers. But before Killian could find the words, Amyra decided to redirect. Where is Lord Arzan? she asked, her voice cutting through his hesitation. Killians head lifted slightly, and he answered almost immediately. Lord Arzan is out of the city. He had some business to attend to and left a few days ago. He should return in about a week. Or maybe two. Otherwise, hed already be here. When you were in a coma, he visited you every other day. Checked on you constantly. Amyra couldnt help the small smile that spread across her face. Im glad to hear that. And even more glad he didnt get injured in the beast wave. Nothing serious. If anything, he seems stronger than ever. You know how he is. Amyra chuckled softly, but Killians expression grew more serious. His sharp look rested on her again, and for a moment, he hesitated. Finally, he spoke. Can I ask you something? Her smile faded, and she straightened. He seemed ready to ask about it. But was she ready to tell? About what happened back then, right? she asked, cutting to the heart of it without hesitation. Killians brow furrowed as he nodded slowly. Even Lord Arzan didnt know what it was. He said hed never seen or heard of anything like it before. Amyra sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. Id be surprised if anyone did, she admitted. Her hands twisted in her lap, fingers fidgeting with the blanket as she lowered her gaze. The memory of that momentthe searing light, the overwhelming energyrose unbidden in her mind. It had felt like something beyond her, something she couldnt quite explain. But how could she admit that when she knew what she had done. Vivid memories rushed through Amyra''s mind. Her first steps into the life she hadnt chosen. The reality of what she was meant to be. Her purpose. She clenched her fists, forcing the memories down, burying them where they couldnt reach hernot now, not when Knight Killians eyes rested on her, waiting for answers. She opened her mouth to speak, but the words refused to come, caught in her throat like a jagged stone. A lump formed instead, and she had to swallow hard before trying again. Her voice, when it came, was quiet and strained. Im sorry, but... can I talk about it when Lord Arzan is back? Killian didnt interrupt, though his brow furrowed slightly, concern etched across his face. Amyra forced herself to continue. Everyone here has been so kind to me. I dont want to hide anything from you allespecially not when youve saved my life. But... Her hands tightened into the blanket on her lap. Its painful for me. Too painful. If I can, Id really like to talk about it just once. All at once. If thats okay. Killians expression softened, and he gave her a small nod. I understand, he said gently. You dont have to worry about it. Lord Arzan will be back soon, anyway. If Im right, he should be around Blackwood Duchy by now. Blackwood Duchy? Yeah, Knight Killian replied with a nod. The land of the blackwood trees. *** Blackwood trees lined both sides of the well-maintained road, their dark, gnarled trunks rising high into the sky. The distinctive black bark seemed to absorb the light, giving the forest an almost mystical air. Kais gaze swept over them, unable to look away. Hed heard of their reputationa specialty of the region, their strength and durability made them a cornerstone of Blackwoods trade. Although not imbued with the properties of lightwood, blackwood timber was prized for its resilience, used to construct everything from homes to fortifications throughout the duchy. The chaotic clatter of hooves on cobblestones punctuated the air as their carriage drew closer to Blackwood City. The sturdy walls came into view first, towering, built almost entirely from the same timber the region was known for. Beyond them, a steady stream of merchants, farmers, and craftsmen were rushing toward the city gates. Kai shifted slightly in his seat, his eyes scanning the crowd and the walls with interest. Efficient, he murmured, noting how smoothly the guards directed traffic. They dont waste a minute here, Claire replied. She, too, stared at the bustling activity that was happening outside. Her fascination mirrored his. The duchys prosperity was evident even before they passed through its gates. The Blackwood crest on their carriage and the presence of Knight Darian at the helm were enough to part the sea of travellers. The guards straightened and waved them through without hesitation, their deference clear. Within moments, they were inside, their carriage rolling smoothly along the wide, cobblestone main road. Blackwood City was alive. Stalls lined the streets, offering everything from finely carved wooden furniture to barrels of dark, glossy honey that Claire guessed came from the famed blackwood bees. The sweet scent of roasting nuts and freshly baked bread mixed with the sharper smell of leather from nearby tanneries. Workers carried bundles of timber on their backs with ease, while children darted between them, running towards their own businesses. The people looked strong, industrious, and contentquite the contrast to the chaos Kai had seen in the capital. This city is... something else, Claire murmured, leaning out slightly to get a better view. Kai nodded. It feels alive. Even the capital didnt have this much energy. They continued down the main road, the castle looming closer with every turn. Built of polished blackwood timber reinforced with stone, the castle looked magnificent. As the carriage pulled into the castle courtyard, Kai spotted a group of people waiting at the front steps. Servants in crisp uniforms stood at attention alongside a tall man. The moment the carriage came to a stop, one of the servants hurried forward to open the door. Kai stepped out, his boots crunching lightly on the gravel as he straightened to his full height. His gaze immediately landed on the man waiting for himLeopold Blackwood. The blonde, young man with a friendly aura that he had befriended back in Hermil. Baron Arzan, Leopold said, a smile playing on his lips. Or should I say Count Arzan now? He shook his head, a hint of admiration in his voice. Ive never seen someone rise through the ranks so quickly, but for what you accomplished, its well deserved. Kai smiled back, stepping forward to clasp Leopolds hand. Your forces helped make it possible, he replied. And you can call me whatever you like, Leopold. Were friends, arent we? Leopold chuckled. That we are, Count Arzan. That we are. Leopold''s sharp eyes flicked to Knight Darian and the others as they dismounted from their horses and moved to join Kai. With a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips, Leopold said, I see youve brought them back alive. Kai chuckled softly, glancing over his shoulder at the knight and his companions. I did my best to keep them intact, he replied. Theyve earned some rest after all theyve been through. Leopold nodded. Good to hear. You always seem to take care of your ownsomething not all nobles bother with. I respect that. He gestured toward the castles grand entrance. Come. I hear youre not staying long, so lets not waste time. My father is in his study, eagerly waiting to meet you. I cant remember the last time he showed this much interest in another noble. Kai raised an eyebrow as they began walking. Is there a particular reason for that? Leopold gave a knowing smile, his hands clasped behind his back as they moved to enter. Lets just say youve exceeded his expectationsand mine. House Blackwood doesnt align itself with any faction. We pride ourselves on staying neutral, watching, and assessing. But when a noble rises as quickly as you have, we pay attention. My father has been keeping an eye on you for some time now. Kai nodded silently, signalling his agreement, and followed Leopold deeper into the castle. Behind them, the servants began unloading the carriage while Knight Darian and the others peeled off to handle their respective tasks. The quiet bustle of activity faded as they moved through the corridors, Kais sharp eyes wandering to the details around him. The walls were filled with tapestries showing battles against the beasts theyd fought over the years. The details of them were immaculate, vivid and striking. Between them hung portraits of House Blackwood ancestors, their gaze felt eerie, calculating and judgemental. Kai also noted the torches that stood along the hallway. Soon, they reached the third floor where the Duke''s study was situated. Just right there, Leopold said while walking towards a large door that had a craving of blackwood trees and wolves snarling at unseen prey. Leopold rapped his knuckles against the door twice. From within came a deep, gravelly voice: Come in. Kai hesitated as Leopold opened the door. The moment stretched as he reminded himself to breathe. He needed to make a good impression heremore than good, flawless. The Blackwoods were famously neutral, but gaining their respect could sway the balance of his future dealings. He straightened his robes, took a steadying breath, and stepped inside behind Leopold. The room was a testament to a lifetime of triumphs. Mounted heads of ferocious beasts lined the far wallmassive tusks, snarling jaws frozen in eternal defiance, and piercing eyes of taxidermied predators that seemed to track his movements. Below them, medals and parchments gleamed under the sunlight streaming through a tall window, chronicling the Dukes achievements in extreme detail by how long they seemed to be. But Kais attention didnt linger long on the trophies. It was immediately drawn to the man sitting at the heavy desk in the centre of the room. Duke William Blackwood was nothing like Kai had envisioned. His burly frame filled the chair, muscles rippling beneath his garments, which wereunexpectedlybright crimson, it stood out due to the muted tones of the room. A thick black beard framed his weathered face, with streaks of silver threading through, and his long hair was tied loosely at the nape of his neck. The Dukes piercing, silver eyes landed on Kai, narrowing slightly as wrinkles etched deeper into his forehead. His expression was unreadableneither welcoming nor hostile but weighed with expectation. Finally, he leaned forward slightly. So, you are here. Arzan Kellius. Ive been meaning to talk to you." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 154. Battleboard Count Arzan, what do you think a king should strive for? Duke Blackwoods deep voice made Kai look up from the board in front of him, meeting his contemplating eyes. The Duke had his chin resting on his fingers. To be loved? Or to be feared? The question echoed in the silent room, filling the quiet four corners. Slowly, Kai''s focus shifted back to the board. The game laid out before them was battleboard, a tactical match where two kings waged war through their chosen pieces. Pieces stood in formation across the polished surface, their carved forms lit up by the golden glow of a nearby chandelier. A diplomat, a knight, a noble, a Mage, pawnsall poised for victory or defeat. The game had begun shortly after their introductions, with Duke Blackwood insisting it was the best way to know a mans mind. Leopold, the Dukes son, sat silently on the sofa nearby, his youthful face set with focused intensity as he watched every move. Fortunately, Kai wasnt a stranger to the game. Killian had played the game with him on days they had taken a break from the training. For all of Killians singular focus on cultivation, battleboard was the one diversion he indulged in, and Kai had sharpened his skills in those games. Whether he could match the Duke, however, was another question entirely. Kai leaned back, studying the board with a calm intensity that belied the weight of the conversation. Both, he said after a moment, A king needs both. The Dukes lips twitched, caught somewhere between a smile and a smirk. An easy answer, he replied, though there was a faint challenge in his voice. Kai shook his head slightly, his focus remaining on the board as his fingers hovered over a knight. Its not. He moved the piece decisively, eliminating one of the Duke''s diplomats. The polished wood made a soft thud as it landed, emphasizing the finality of the move. I have my reasons. Duke Blackwoods brow arched, curiosity sparking in his dark eyes. Do tell, he prompted, leaning forward slightly. Kai rested his forearms on the edge of the table, his fingers lacing together as he spoke. His gaze shifted from the board to meet the Dukes. Being loved and feared each has its own meritsand its own dangers. But a good king must possess both. He must be loved by his people, so they follow him willingly, trust him implicitly. But he must also be feared by his enemiesand by the wicked within his kingdom. Without love, his people might turn on him. Without fear, his enemies will see him as weak. Duke Blackwood hummed thoughtfully, considering Kais words as he moved a pawn forward on the boarda small piece, but every move in battleboard carried weight. And if someone does rise against him? Can he not simply crush them, prove his strength that way? Kai tilted his head slightly, the shadow of a smile playing at his lips. Yes, Your Grace. But that wasnt your question, was it? The Dukes lips twitched again, the lines on his face shifting as if suppressing a laugh. He leaned forward, placing his next piecea noblestrategically on the board. So, Count Arzan, tell me, do you think any of the prospective kings can achieve that balance? Both loved and feared? Kais gaze flicked to the Duke briefly before returning to the board. He reached for one of his pieces, his knight, and moved it with a soft click on the polished wood. His answer was calm but carried a quiet finality. No. I dont think so. The amusement in Duke Blackwoods expression deepened, his smile widening as he leaned back in his chair. Youre decisive, he remarked, his tone carrying a hint of approval. I heard you were in the capital recently. Met Prince Eldric. Then not long after, you crossed paths with the nobles backing Princes Thalric and Aldrin. None of them caught your interest? As he spoke, the Duke moved another pawn, positioning it directly in front of one of Kais Mages. It was a bold move, subtle but with clear intent. Kai adjusted his posture slightly, his fingers brushing idly over a bishop on his side of the board. I havent met the second and third princes yet, he admitted. But from what Ive learned, theyre extremes. Extremes can be useful, he said, his tone contemplative. But dangerous. Tell me, Countwhat would you consider the middle ground? Kais lips curved into a faint smile, though it didnt quite reach his eyes. He moved another piecea calculated step that left the Dukes noble vulnerable. The middle ground is the most difficult to hold, he replied. But its where true power lies. A king who stands there is one who understands his people, commands their loyalty, and keeps his enemies at baynot through brute strength or blind adoration, but through strategy. Balance is not found in extremes, Your Grace. Its forged in the fire of discipline and the clarity of purpose. Hmm. You might be right about that. The Duke cleared his throat and leaned forward, making his next move. You said the other two princes were extremes? How so? In return, Kai placed his bishop strategically to defend his king, then spoke. The third prince, he began, is the type who thrives on fear. His supporters are warmongersnobles with ambitions that stretch far beyond the borders of this kingdom. Greedy men, eager to carve out more land, more wealth, with little regard for the cost. With a prince like that on the throne, the kingdom would be walking a tightrope. One wrong step, and everything would collapse. A ruler who seeks war without caution is no ruler at all. Duke Blackwood nodded slowly, his eyes narrowing as he considered the words. And the second prince? Kai exhaled, his fingers tapping lightly on the edge of the board. Soft, he said simply. From what Ive heard, he leans toward progressive ideals. His retinue speaks of reformlaws aimed at fostering internal growth, promoting art, education, and trade. Admirable, on paper. But the world isnt safe. Wars dont wait for prosperity to take root. A ruler who ignores the dangers outside his borders is doomed to fail when those dangers come knocking. The Duke hummed thoughtfully, moving one of his piecesa Mage this time. And the first prince? he asked, his voice casual, though his eyes stayed on the board. Kai paused, his expression tightening slightly. He froned as he studied the board, then finally spoke. Hes dumb, he said bluntly. A puppet. Not worth considering. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. To his surprise, the Duke broke into a grin, his eyes sparkling with approval. Dumb, you say? Hahaha. I must admit, Count, I agree with you. Wholeheartedly, in fact. Kai arched a brow, intrigued by the mans candid response and the belly laugh. William leaned forward, his fingers now tracing the edge of the table. I wanted to say as much in court when those princes approached me. But alas, I am a noble. I must talk carefully. He waved a hand theatrically, as though mocking himself. I cant very well call a prince dumb to his face, now, can I? No, no. I have to wrap it in flowers and ribbons to not break their fragile little hearts. Kai allowed himself a faint smile. He knew the man was wise, but the respect he demanded was uncanny. And with every word that escaped his mouth, Kai seemed to increase the amount of respect hed. And what did you say? The Duke chuckled, his fingers curling under his chin as he studied the board. Something about their potential being... untapped, he said with a sly grin. A polite way of saying theyre useless without someone to pull the strings. Kai smirked at that, moving his queen into a threatening position. Diplomacy at its finest, he said dryly. The Duke moved his rook almost as quickly, his gaze never leaving the board. Did you ask that question to find out which prince I support? Kai asked, breaking the silence. I thought you already knew my allegiances. The Duke smiled faintly, a glint of amusement in his eyes. A nobles mind is ever fluid, Count. Allegiances can shift like the wind. Just because youre unaligned now doesnt mean you wont be in the future. Youve grown too much, after all, the Duke continued, gesturing vaguely as he leaned back in his chair. From a baron to a count in record time. Introducing new technology, commanding strong forces, wielding significant magical strengthand with ducal blood running in your veins. Youll find yourself in the close circles of any prince. That doesnt tempt you? Doesnt it make you reconsider? Kai studied the board, then moved his Mage closer to the Dukes commander piece, the click of the wooden piece punctuating the air. I actually did change my mind, he said finally. The Dukes brows arched slightly. Oh? Then what side have you chosen? Before I answer, let me ask you a question. The Duke tilted his head, intrigued. And what would that be? Why did you let Knight Darian and the guards come to Veralt to die? You knew they wouldnt survive. You had no idea about the mana cannons or the state of my forcesnot enough to believe we could win. So why send them to their deaths? For a moment, Duke Blackwood simply stared at Kai, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, his lips curled into a small smile, though it didnt reach his eyes. They failed. And people paid the price. Kais eyes narrowed, but he didnt interrupt. Knight Darian is a good man, the Duke continued. Competent. Loyal. I like him. But he made me a promisea bold one. He swore hed destroy a parasite that took something precious from me. And he failed. The Dukes gaze darkened, his voice growing quieter. The mountain of a man sighed deeply. When he returned, he came to me asking for punishment. I told him he would die for his failure, and he didnt flinch. He said his resolve was strong enough to overcome anything. So I sent him to you. Duke''s Blackwood eyes locked onto Kais, his tone grave. And it seems his resolve wasnt misplaced after all. Kai glanced briefly at Leopold, who sat stiffly on the sofa, his hands clasped together tightly as though holding himself steady. Then, as if connecting fragmented thoughts into a clear picture, Kai frowned. The necromancer, he said softly. Leopolds head tilted slightly, a somber nod confirming Kais suspicion. The Duke exhaled deeply, leaning back in his chair. His expression darkened, the lines on his face deepening as he spoke. Yes. My nephew. Kais gaze flicked back to the Duke, who looked away momentarily, his eyes drifting to the far side of the room. My younger brother died years ago. I raised his son as if he were my own. He was close to me. he paused, the memory weighing heavy in his voice. His gaze sharpened, and Kai recognized the simmering anger behind it. And that monster stole him from me. Im sorry for your loss, Kai said, his voice steady but sincere. No one deserves to die like that. The Duke grunted, his nod curt but genuine. Thank you You took him down. For that, I am thankful. Leopold shifted slightly, his gaze flicking between the two men before settling on Kai. His expression carried unspoken gratitude, a reflection of the Dukes sentiments. Kai held the Dukes gaze for a moment longer before letting his focus return to the board. Now, the Duke said, his voice quieter but no less firm, tell me about this side youve chosen. Kai inclined his head, giving the tension in the room a moment to dissipate. His focus returned to the board, where the game had reached an intricate balancea stalemate of sorts. Every piece on the polished wood seemed to hover on the brink of danger, waiting for the first mistake to shift the tide. Im sorry, Kai said. But youd be disappointed to know that the necromancer was just a pawn. The Duke froze, his thoughts visibly halting midstream. His eyes widened in surprise, and even Leopold straightened in his seat, his brows furrowed deeply. What do you mean? Leopold asked. Kai looked at him, then back to the Duke, his expression unyielding. The side Ive chosen is against necromancers, mana fiends, blood drinkers, weavers, and anything else tied to dead mana. But I fear what Im fighting against has already rooted itself deep inside the royal court. The Dukes jaw clenched, the anger in his eyes now tempered by a cautious intensity. He didnt interrupt, waiting for Kai to continue. Especially Queen Regina, Kai added. That name was enough for the air to grow thickalmost suffocating. Even the sounds that came from outside the door seemed to fade. Kai looked at Leopold, his lips were pressed into a thin line and his hands gripped his knees in a white-knuckled grip. Kai looked back at the Duke. The latter leaned back slightly, exhaling a breath hed been holding through his nose. Is that true? he asked, almost hesitant. Regina is bad newsIve never trusted her ambitions. But conspiring with dark forces? Dead mana? Thats the lowest a human can stoop to. Kai sighed. I wish I were wrong. I didnt agree to meet you just for a game of battleboard. After the beast wave, I discovered something troublinga dark mana parasite inside the body of the Vermorga that led the wave. The Dukes eyebrows rose again. Before I could collect it, the parasite killed itself. But Im certain it was controlling the Vermorga, inciting the beast wave against Veralt. And more than that, I believe it was brought by the necromancer. After all, I killed him in the Vasper Forest. A peculiar coincidence, dont you think? Duke Blackwood frowned, his fingers curling into a loose fist. How does that lead to Regina? She would have stood to gain the most if my city and I were razed to the ground. I dont know what youre saying, he replied, shaking his head. You havent even met her, have you? No, I havent, Kai admitted. The Duke leaned forward to make the next move on the board. With their conversation growing deep and serious, one would think that theyd forgotten about the game, but he didn''t seem to have any intention to leave it hanging. The faint clack of the piece striking the wood reverberated in the room. Kai continued, bringing his thoughts back to the conversation. But I dont need to. The reasons shed want me dead are clear enough. And the biggest one? He paused, his lips curving into a faint, cryptic smile. Its simple. The side I stand on isnt aligned with any princebecause I dont need them. I can make my own side The Dukes eyes narrowed as he studied Kai, searching for the meaning behind his words. Then, something shifted in his gaze, an understanding dawning as his pupils dilated with realization. His lips parted slightly, and he muttered under his breath, The medallion given to Valkyrie You plan to contest for the throne. To build your own side. Kai said nothing, his smile deepening ever so slightly. Leopold, who had been silent until now, went pale. His mouth opened as if to speak, but no words came. His eyes sought Kais, questioning, almost pleading for confirmation. But Kai ignored him, his focus returning to the board. Deciding to end the game, he slid his Mage forward, the unmistakable sound of wood against wood punctuating the moment. His Mage struck true, toppling the enemy king. I win, he said simply. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 155. Decisiveness Once the game was over, both Duke Blackwood and Leopold didnt speak much. And the former congratulated him on the win and walked away, leaving the room to the two. It was as if the old Duke needed time to process whatever Kai had hinted toward. He hadnt outright proclaimed that he was running for the thronedoing so now would have been hasty and reckless. But he had given the Duke enough of a clue to set the wheels turning. After seeing the man go, Kai and Leopold felt into an eerie silence which was broken when the latter stood up and said, follow me, and then continued to silently lead Kai through the winding halls of the estate to the guest room where he would be staying the night before leaving for Sylvastra. The younger mans usual composure was marked by an uncharacteristic solemnity. At the door, Leopold finally spoke. Count Arzan, this is your room. There should be everything you need but if theres anything else, feel free to call for a servant Make yourself at home, for the night. Thanks, Kai replied. And with that, he departed, leaving Kai to his own devices. The rest of the day passed peacefully. Kai spent the quiet hours speaking with Raven, gathering insights on the elf lands and the passages that led to them. He mulled over the information, putting it into the larger plans forming in his mind. There were too many pieces to fit together, but for now, he had time to think. The next morning, Kai was summoned early to the estate grounds. The call came before the sun had risen fully, the sky still heavy with thick, grey clouds that hinted at rain. Following Leopolds steady gait, Kai walked through the halls and set his feet outside, where things seemed quieter than when he arrived. But still, there were activities ongoing; the distant cries of guards training on the other side of the grounds, their sharp commands and the clash of faint metal echoes in the stillness. The familiar sounds reminded him of Veralt, and he thought back to the guards who would have already started their morning training. Kai walked slowly, letting his senses take in every detail around him. The estates grounds stretched wide and were very well-maintained, but there was a heaviness to the atmosphere, as though something lingered just beneath the surface. Soon, the silhouette of William came into view, his figure standing still in the distance. Leopold continued forward, leading Kai closer to the Duke. Kais pace faltered as he noticed what William stood overlooking. His breath hitched slightly as his gaze settled on the object before the Dukea grave. As Kai watched, Leopold broke the silence. Ill leave you alone now, he said quietly before stepping away, his boots crunching softly on the gravel path as he retreated. With no other choice, Kai took a deep breath and moved forward, his steps slow but not faltering. The closer he got to William, the clearer the grave and its surroundings became. Duke Blackwood stood tall, his hands to his behind and his shoulders rigid. When Kai finally reached him, he turned, his face somber, but composed. Count Arzan, youre here, he said. I hope I didnt ruin your sleep. Kai shook his head. No, you didnt. I was already up by the time Leopold knocked on my door. The Duke gave a faint nod, and Kais gaze shifted past him to the grave. His eyes focused on the inscription etched into the stone, the name catching his attention. Degger Blackwood, it read, accompanied by a short epitaph: A brave soul who stood against the darkness. Kais brows furrowed as he took in the name and its meaning. He looked back at William, his voice quiet. This is Yes, William interrupted. This is where my nephew rests. I told you he died to the necromancer, but I never explained how it happened. Kai remained silent, sensing it wasnt his turn to speak. He stood still, allowing the Duke to continue. He was a good man, William began, his voice tinged with grief and pride. I had plans for him. I intended to give him one of the outer villages to rule so he could gain experience before moving on to something greater. He was young, ambitious, but steady. He would have made an excellent leader. The Dukes eyes drifted toward the grave as he spoke. But fate had other plans. The necromancer attacked the village he was overseeing. Unlike many men who would have fled, he stood his ground. He fought against the abominations, rallying the villagers to defend themselves. But Williams voice tightened. He was no Mage. Just a mortal. A brave one. And he paid for it. Kais jaw clenched, but he said nothing as William continued. When we found him, the Duke said, his voice softer now, there was almost nothing left. He had been reduced to a mere skeleton. The only way we identified him was the bracelet I gave him on his sixteenth birthday. He still wore it. He exhaled deeply, his gaze hardening. I buried him myself, ensuring he finally got the rest he deserved. That day solidified my hatred for necromancers and all their foul creations. The Duke paused, his expression grim. This wasnt my first encounter with necrotic beingsor, as you can call them, creatures of dead mana. During my years in the army, I saw what they could do. Theyd corrupt entire regions, leaving the land barren, uninhabitable. They destroy everything they touch. His eyes met Kais, the weight of his words pressing heavily on the morning air. When you spoke yesterday, I sensed the same hatred in you. Tell meam I right? It was time for him to speak. The pain in the Duke''s voice, eyes and especially the hesitation in his demeanorit all made Kai think about what hed gone through. A village worth of pain. Kai finally broke the silence, his voice steady. Yes. Ive had my encounters with them, and none of them have been good. Every meeting with creatures of dead mana has only solidified my resolve. Ive sworn an oath to fight against them and to ensure that they are in their best possible statedead. Williams gaze sharpened as he studied Kai, his intense eyes probing for any hint of hesitation. Does that oath require you to fight for the crown? he asked, his tone testing, almost goading, as if trying to size Kai up. The tension hung for a moment before William chuckled, his deep voice reverberating across the quiet grounds. Though I know your decision hasnt been made yet, no matter what you try to make me believe. I know of the medallion, he said, leaning back slightly, his arms crossed. It caused quite an uproar in the court when King Sullivan granted Valkyrie that honor. But its noise has since quieted. And I wonder His lips curled into a knowing smile. Do you have the courage to cause an uproar again? Kai met Williams gaze, unmoving, as the Duke continued. I called you here to get these answers before you leave for whatever reason brought you to my lands. Sar?h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The silence that followed was heavy, yet it carried no animosityonly the weight of unspoken truths. William didnt seem interested in prying into the details of why Kai had ventured into his domain. Instead, his focus was on Kais goals and his intentions regarding the throne. Kais thoughts churned. The idea of fighting for the throne had plagued him daily, and each time, he reached the same conclusion. Looking into Williams eyes, he spoke one truth that he knew. I will do whatever I need to do to fulfill my oatheven if it means taking over the throne. As for causing an uproar, Im prepared for it. But as youve already guessed, I havent yet decided to pursue the throne. Nor have I spoken to my retainers about it. I will, though. Soon. The only reason Ive put it off is that theres too much left to do. If Im going to fight for the throne, I need more power than I have now. Far more. And thats why you sought me out, he said knowingly. I believe it was you who wanted to meet me, Kai said in a beat. The Duke shook his head, a faint grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. Yes, but I wanted to evaluate you. To see what kind of man this rising noblethe one who managed to make himself a counttruly is. I never expected to find a prospective king. Kai raised an eyebrow at Williams assessment, but his tone was calm. Is that a bad thing? You dont seem interested in the current factions anyway. Maybe it is, maybe its not. Its not easy to evaluate a man in one meeting. What Ive heard of you so far is honorablebut theres enough bad mixed in with the good. Your past doesnt give me assurance, and your present... well, I cant quite figure it out yet. Kai winced inwardly, feeling the thoughts of Arzans shadowed past pressing down on him once again. It was a past he couldnt escape entirelyespecially with the useless title that previous Arzan had carried, the one to always be in the shadows and never outshine, but one he had worked tirelessly to leave behind. With a slow breath, he looked William in the eye. My past is something I detest, he admitted. Its not who I am anymore. As for my present I believe youll have plenty of opportunities to evaluate me sooner or later. His gaze sharpened. Though I also think it would be in your best interest to choose me, Duke Blackwood. William tilted his head slightly, intrigued. Oh? And why is that? Kais expression didnt waver. With Queen Regina hellbent on seizing the throne and willing to use dead mana to her advantage, and with the other princes lacking in your eyes, Im the only one you can rely on. William studied him for a long moment before replying. And do you not lack? His voice carried a faint hint of a challenge. If I do, Kai said without hesitation, Ill find someone to fill that lack. The Duke huffed. Trusting others so easily? Thats a dangerous path. You might end up with a knife in your back. I dont trust just anyone. If I want to be a ruler loved by my people and feared by my enemies, I need to know who to trustand who not to. A good monarch might not be the strongest or the wisest, but he must have a good eye for people. Wise words, William remarked, his tone laced with irony. For someone who hasnt even decided if he wants to run for the throne yet. Indecisiveness doesnt make a good ruler. If you cant even decide your own path, why should I, or anyone else, support you? Kai almost grimaced at the pointed observation, but he quickly masked it. He paused, thinking carefully and taking his time. Let me make it simple. He knew that after coming all this way he couldnt mess this up, especially not with a foul answer and a foul mouth. He needed to know what he was talking about and by considering all he knew about the Dukehe loved action rather than words. "In not a long time, my brother, Duke Kellius, will march for my lands." William raised an eyebrow at the claim, and huffed. "A bold statement.And how are you so sure of this?" Kai exhaled. "You wont find this information anywhere, not in court whispers or noble rumors. But from what I know of himand of Reginahell find a way to claim my lands and destroy me. His patience has thinned. Its only a matter of time before he marches. For what reason? How hell justify it? I cant say. But Im confident he will." William folded his arms. "Its still just an assumption. Even if I entertained the thought, how do you plan to stop him from doing so?" Kai shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Thats where youre mistaken, Duke. I dont plan to stop him." The Duke''s brow furrowed slightly. "Youre not going to stop him?" "No," Kai replied. "Ill protect the lands granted to me by King Sullivan. But I wont just stop himIll use his actions to make my point. Ill defend Veralt, and when the dust settles, youll see what youre looking for." His gaze locked onto William''s. "Decisiveness." William regarded him in silence for a long moment, tilting his head slightly as if what Kai said was absolute mockery. "And you believe that will be enough to sway me?" Kai nodded calmly. "You can make your decision after that. But Ill show you what kind of man I am, not through promises or assumptions, but through action." *** Francis leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples as he surveyed the group gathered in his office. The room was filled with young, eager faces, each bearing a mix of determination and nervous energya lot of it. These were his apprentices, the seven he had personally selected to shoulder the weight of an ever-growing workload. A lanky boy named Siton stood near the corner, his ink-stained fingers fidgeting with a quill. Next to him, Mina, a red-eyed woman with her hair tied in a no-nonsense braid, clutched a ledger close to her chest. Darran, broad-shouldered and looking like he belonged more on a battlefield than in an administrative office, leaned against the wall, his expression a mixture of boredom and attentiveness. The othersbright, unseasoned minds eager to prove themselvescompleted the group. Francis sighed. Seven apprentices had seemed like enough when he started, but as Veralt and Verdis grew, the weight of administration proved heavier than anticipated. Hed need more people soon. The workload wasnt just expandingit was threatening to outpace them. Breaking the silence, Mina stepped forward. "The work on the roads is underway. We''re making decent progress each day. As per your instructions, while the city is our priority, weve shifted focus to connecting the villages to each other and to Veralt and Verdis." She hesitated, her eyes briefly darting to her ledger. "But were running into financial issues." She glanced at the others before continuing. "Also, Ive prepared a contingent to go to the barbarian territory. Theyre ready to leave anytime." Francis leaned forward, his elbows on the desk, fixing her with a steady gaze. "Hold off the merchants until the payments from the mana cannon sales come through. Were not in a position to stretch our resources further just yet." He let his words sink in before adding, "Talk to Malden. Most of the materials we need are either from him or from merchants he has connections with. Hell know how to handle it." Mina nodded, scribbling down his instructions. Francis sighed again, leaning back in his chair. "As for the contingent, hold it off for now. Ill handle the barbarians myself once Ive dealt with more pressing matters here." His voice softened slightly, though his weariness was evident. "What else?" The group exchanged glances, hesitant but ready to dive into the next set of issues. Francis braced himself, knowing his day was far from over. Before Francis could utter another word, Siton stepped forward. "Its about the slums'' redevelopment. Were getting backlash from... certain groups. People who were involved in criminal activities there are stirring up the locals. Theyre spreading rumors that we plan to evict everyone instead of improving the area." Francis closed his eyes briefly, exhaling through his nose. "Parasites," he muttered. "Send Knight Killian and the Enforcers to deal with it. Make it clear there will be no mercy for those who thrive on exploiting others." Siton nodded, stepping back into the group. Francis straightened in his chair, ready to move to the next item on the agenda, but before he could speak, the door to his office swung open. A guard entered, his face pale and his hands shaky. Maybe from the run or maybe from whatever the issue was. "Administrator Francis," the man began, "weve got trouble brewing in one of the villages near Verdis. Baron Idrin, who controls the nearby lands, is attempting to halt the road construction. Hes also trying to lay claim to those lands for himself." Francis sighed loudly, taking a second to comprehend the man''s words before shooting out of his seat. Get whoever is free to take their horses out. We are leaving to deal with it. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 156. Idrin New territory didnt always come with new land and people to rule. It came with responsibilitiesburdens that make one feel as if they had boulders pressing their weight down on them. And sometimes, those responsibilities came with problems. Land disputes were one of the more common ones out of them, and today, Francis was facing one of the worst kinds. The kind where a noble thought he could take what was rightfully someone elses. As he listened to the man who had brought the message, Francis was already planning on what to do next. Once the full story was clear, he had made his decision. He could''ve delegated it to Mina or Siton, but there were some things you didn''t leave to subordinates, especially not when it involved a noble. He would handle this personally. He needed to. With that decision made, Francis organized his party. Two EnforcersBran and Talon, and Khoph, a Mage who had been particularly free and agreed to join them quickly. Lord Arzan had told him of a few Mages he had good hope for and the man was among them. The three of them were perfect. Strong enough to deal with any conflict, but not overbearing enough that the other party takes it as a sign of war. As they got on top of their horses and set off toward Greten, a village that was to the left of Veridis, Francis couldnt help but feel the unease that came with riding at full speed. The horses galloped along the rough paths, the wind whipping at his face, and he almost felt as if he might fall off a few times. But this wasnt his first time dealing with such matters. He knew the importance of being quick. If Baron Idrin had any designs on delaying things or making trouble, Francis didnt want to give him the chance. Baron Idrin, in particular, was no stranger to Francis. Three winters ago, the previous lord of Veralt and him had come to an agreement. They had needed grain to go through winter, but in exchange Idrin had asked for their iron mine instead of coins. As a result, the deal had been rejected. Shortly after, bandit activity in the area had increased particularly against the remaining farmlands, and rumours swirled that Baron Idrin had something to do with it. But at the time, there was little that could be done. The Lord had been powerless to act, and Idrin had known it. But things had changed now. Under Lord Arzan, the rules were different. Baron Idrin couldnt throw his might and sway off men as he pleased. As Francis rode alongside men strong enough to deal with any knights Idrin might throw at him, he felt confident. he thought to himself. After two hours of swift, scary and risky riding, they finally reached the village. Though he was happy to have finally arrived at the place, the scene before them was tense. A large group of villagers had gathered just outside the walls, and a sizable contingent of armoured men stood at the front. In the centre of it all, two men stood. He recognised one of them as Baron Idrin who talked animatedly with his hands flying in the air with every word he spoke. The person he talked to was Chief Norej, an elderly but sharp-witted man who had attended one of the meetings Francis had held some months ago with Zorgar over development of Verdis and its villages. Francis fixed his gaze on both of them. Baron Idrin screamed as arrogant and demanding as he remembered. A tall, skinny man, draped in a rich purple cloak. His long chin looked down on anyone who stood in front of him. And his eyes bore into Chief Norejs face as if he was trying to prove a point. He seemed to be deliberately talking loudly, trying to keep the attention of everyone at him and snickering from time to time. The old man, with a downturned gaze, appeared to be lowering himself, likely trying to placate Idrin, but he was powerless. It was then that Francis and his group were noticed. Baron Idrin, Chief Norej, and the others turned their heads in unison, their gazes shifting to the approaching party. The villagers parted, making way as Francis, Bran, Talon and Khoph walked towards the baron confidently. Idrins eyes narrowed, and his posture stiffened. He stopped talking, taking in the newcomers and seemed to recognise Francis by the way he focused on him. With a quick gesture from his wrist, Francis gestured for his men to dismount. As his foot touched the ground, he immediately made eye contact with Baron Idrin. "Baron Idrin, whats going on here?" Francis asked, and without giving any time for Idrin to answer, he continued, "Ive been informed that youre attempting to encroach on the lands granted to Count Arzan by the King himself. Don''t you know thats enough of a reason for the crown to punish you?" Idrins lips curled into a snicker, clearly amused by the audacity of the man before him. "Francis," he said with a mocking tone, "you seem to have grown a pair since the last time I saw you. Talking like this to a Baron, when youre just a commoner." Francis didnt flinch. Instead, he put up his hands and stopped Idrin right then and there. "Ive been tasked by Count Arzan to manage his territories. I have enough power to speak to you like this, especially when youre trying to push into lands that dont belong to you." Idrin threw his head back and let out a big belly laugh as if the idea of Francis having any power was a joke. "Am I?" he retorted, his tone dripping with mockery. "I dont think you understand. Ive been in a land dispute with Baron Morcant for years now, over that gold mine right there in between the hills." He gestured grandly toward the hills in the distance, a sharp glint of greed in his eyes. "Thats the real reason Im here, Francis. This land has been mine for far longer than your precious Count Arzan has even been in the picture." Franciss mind whirled as he listened to Idrins words, vaguely recalling Zorgar talking about it, but as the baron hadn''t made any moves in the last few years, he had expected it to be a matter of the past. "My lands stretch to those hills too, so I have the right to the mine," Idrin said in a tone that made it seem like hed been self-reassuring for so long, he fully believed that he was right. Then he pulled out a crumpled piece of parchment from his coat and waved it in front of Francis. "The man who previously lorded over this city, Henderson, even agreed to part with it for a good sum of coins. Not only the mine, but even this village right here. I have the agreement right here." Franciss brow furrowed as he took in the document, but he didnt look impressed. He''d heard nothing of such a thing. "Henderson had no right to make such an agreement," he said. "He was a traitor to the crown, and the crown will agree with me. That piece of paper is worthless." S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Idrins face reddened with rage. His fingers tightened around the parchment, crumpling it as his glare turned cold. "My claim isnt worthless," he spat while clutching the piece of paper to his chest. "It would be in the best interest of both of us if I were to take that mine. Otherwise..." He trailed off ominously, his eyes flicking toward the knights behind him. At that moment, the knights drew their swords in unison. The group of armoured men around Idrin began to shift, weapons raised in readiness. Franciss own Enforcers, however, were quick to react. They pulled out their blades, the steel clinking as it met the air, prepared to defend their own. Tension thickened like a cloud over the gathering, the villagers, who had been quietly observing the scene, started to back away. A lot of gasps and whispers spreaded. Francis, however, didnt flinch. "Otherwise what?" he asked calmly, daring Idrin to make the first move. He signalled to the Mage they had brought along. Khoph, who stood at the edge of the group, immediately lifted his hands. Mana pulsed in the air as he started creating a spell structure. A yellow light followed the path that his fingers trailed in the air. The spell structure hung right when he was done, ready to unleash at the opponents. That made Idrins knights halt mid-motion, their weapons now suspended in the air, eyes wide as the force of the spell made them pause. Baron Idrin himself faltered, his confident smirk faltering as he regarded the Mages display of power. Francis inhaled deeply and took a step forward. "I suggest you rethink your position, Baron," he said. "This is Count Arzan''s land, and no amount of empty claims will change that." Idrin sneered at Francis, his lips curling as he gestured toward Khoph. You brought a Mage to this when I''m here for a peaceful discussion? he scoffed. It seems the rumours of your counts rise aren''t a lie after all. But understand thisjust bringing a Mage wont let you roll over me. Francis clenched his jaw, his eyes narrowing as he stood tall against Idrins taunts. All your knights and guards point to something else, he retorted. I came here because I heard you were trying to take over Greten. If you were truly here for a peaceful discussion, your men wouldnt be brandishing swords. Idrins face tightened at Franciss words, but he quickly recovered. "Why did you come, then? I expected Count Arzan to come to deal with this himself. Ive heard so much about him. Unfortunately, I was too sick to attend his ceremony, but I did send him a gift. Did he consider himself too high to come to meet me to discuss the dispute?" Francis ground his teeth at the mention of the Count. He couldn''t reveal anything about Lord Arzans situation with his absence in Veralt. The idea of discussing his lord''s venture, or anything more about him, wasnt a conversation he was prepared to have. Instead, he simply responded, My lord is in secluded meditation right now. Hes tasked me with solving this issue. I have all the powers to make a decision here. Idrin looked him over with narrowed eyes, seemingly processing the words before a sly grin returned to his lips. Is that so? Then okay. Lets have a negotiation. In three days, lets meet right here in the village to solve the dispute. I dont care if your lord comes or notuntil I get my hands on that mine. Sure, in three days. But you wont get the mine, Francis said with a nod. Idrin chuckled darkly, clearly amused. Lets see about that. With a final sneer in Franciss direction, Idrin turned on his heel, motioning for his men to follow him. They began to march back toward their territory, leaving Francis standing at the edge of the village, his mind turning over the conversation. The tension in the air remained, thick as ever, but Francis couldnt shake the unease that churned in his gut. As Idrins men disappeared over the horizon, Francis continued to watch them, brow furrowed in thought. As soon as they saw that Idrin was out of sight, Bran walked forward. "What are we going to do now?" he asked. Well talk, Francis replied. Try to negotiate and keep the land dispute on the back burner for now, but somethings off. Bran frowned. What do you mean?" Francis sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. I know Idrin. Ive met him before. Hes the type to act like a dog to higher nobles, trying to win favor. Lord Arzan is a count with a growing reputation. It doesnt make sense for him to show such an attitude. Idrin is looking for conflict. But hes talking about a land dispute. Is it not real? It seems real, but aside from the agreement Hendrerson gave him that I had no idea about, the issue hasn''t been mentioned for a long time, Francis said honestly. "And if theres no mention of it, why would Idrin bring it up now, after all these years? It feels fishy to me. Bra nodded at that. "So, are you going to tell Lord Arzan about it?" Franciss gaze turned to the horizon, his heart heavy with the uncertainty of it all. Yes, he answered. Ill send word to him. I hope he returns soon. Somethings brewing, and I cant shake the feeling that this is more than just a simple land dispute. The Enforcer said nothing more, and soon they all mounted their horses to go back to Veralt. In his heart, Francis wished that the lord would be back soon. *** Kai left the Blackwood estate with a lot on his mind, having given William plenty to consider. He wasnt sure if the Duke would ultimately agree to form an alliance, but at least he knew they hadnt left on bad terms. The tension between them had dissolved somewhat, and Kai was certain that Duke Blackwood would be keeping a close eye on him from now on, for better or worse. Once they had left the estate behind, Kai and his group began heading west into the Sylvara grove. He knew that while the forest was part of the Lancephil territory, the elven lands connected to it were independent. Due to that, the grove was somewhere in the middle. Kai had heard rumours of King Sullivans repeated attempts to conquer the elven lands, hoping to gain access to the Elder Tree in his youth, but despite his best efforts, he and his forces had never even come close to reaching it. The elves were considered mysterious, and the Elder Tree in Sylvastra was seen as something of a legend. Curiosity gnawed at Kai as they walked, and he couldnt resist asking, Whats the reason Sylvastra is hidden so well? Is it the doing of the Elder Tree itself? Raven nodded thoughtfully, her gaze distant as she walked. In a way, yes, she said, but its mostly the work of the elders. Youll understand better as we get closer. I believe youll like what you see. The conversation faded as they continued deeper into the forest, the sounds of wildlife filling the air. Then, without warning, a rustling from the underbrush caught their attention. A beast strodded forward, standing at least eight feet tall at the shoulder, with a muscular frame covered in coarse, dark fur that shimmered faintly in the dappled sunlight. Its head resembled a mix between a wolf and a bear, with a pronounced snout, jagged fangs glinting as it bared its teeth, and two curling horns sprouting from its forehead, adding to its menacing appearance. Gareth instinctively moved to charge, but Raven held up a hand to stop him. Wait! she whisper yelled. Let me handle it. She extended a hand, and from her fingertips, a green light appearedRavens spiritJata. It floated forward, silent and graceful, approaching the beast with cautious steps. The animal seemed to pause, its instincts alert but not aggressive. The little wisp of energy pulsed, once, twice, thriceit was communicating with the large beast. The beast grunted, huffed and puffed, finally coming to an understanding. Moments later, it snorted in recognition and retreated back into the trees, vanishing as quickly as it had appeared. Kai watched the entire interaction, his gaze fixed on the spirit and the beast. It was a fascinating sight, but his curiosity wasnt just about the beastit was about Raven and her spirit. Claire, walking beside him, couldnt help but glance at the spirit with a twinkle in her eyes. Turning to Raven, Kai couldnt hold back his question. How did you do that? he asked. I didnt sense any magic emanating from Jata. Raven smiled slightly. I just got my spirit to talk to the beast, she explained. One of the elders formed a druidic bond with the creature that rules over the Sylvara groves. All the beasts are under it''s command. I had my spirit remind it that we are protected by that elder, so it ran off. Kai''s eyes widened with interest. Thats fascinating, he admitted and gave a smile. Ive never looked into druidic magic before. Its an entirely different kind of power. Raven nodded. Its not well understood by many outside the elven community. But its a deeply rooted magic. The connection between spirit and nature is something that cant easily be replicated. Kai nodded at that. As they continued their journey through the forest, he found his thoughts consumed with the concept of druidic magic. It was a field of power he had never explored, and the idea of understanding itmaybe even harnessing itwas an exciting possibility. He couldnt wait to learn more and already decided to ask for some books on it once he reaches Sylvastara. After walking through the dense forest for some time, the group finally reached an river, its surface smooth like glass, reflecting the sky and the trees surrounding it. Raven didnt pause to admire the view, however. Instead, she moved swiftly to a nearby bush, lifting aside branches to reveal a long boat hidden beneath them. It was crafted from wood, twigs and vines. Kai noticed engravings all around its surface. Its an elven made boat, Raven said, gesturing for them to board. Well be travelling by river now. Kai and the others exchanged glances before stepping into the boat. It was surprisingly sturdy despite their light, organic appearance, and the board was flawless. Both the twins took the oars as Kai moved to check the Seals that seemed to be powering the boat. Gareth cleared his throat loudly as he settled into his boat. Is the river safe? he asked, looking out at the waters with suspicion. Raven gave a small, almost amused smile as she took the lead. Not exactly, she replied. There are often river beasts that come out of the depths. But I dont think it will be any big problem. Theyre easy to deal with. And we have Lord Arzan here. She nodded toward Kai, Either way, let''s not waste time. We need to get to Sylvastra. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 157. Sylvastra As they made their way up the river''s current, Raven began to explain more about the river that was called Mistfen river. For the first hour of the journey, Kai couldn''t understand the reasoning behind the name. But as the boat drifted farther, a strange, swirling mist began to envelop them, thick and dense, obscuring everything around. They couldnt see past what was at an arms distance. Kai looked around, trying to gauge the surroundings, but the atmosphere felt unnatural. The mist seemed alive, constantly shifting, and a peculiar mana current interfered with his senses. It was as though the very air around them was charged with an unseen force, making it difficult to discern anything beyond the haze. He instinctively reached for his magic, but just as he began to weave a spell, Raven placed a gentle hand on his arm. "You should save your spells, Lord Arzan," she said. "Why?" Kai asked, his voice filled with confusion. "I believe theres something mixed in the mist... some sort of magic interfering with my senses." Raven nodded, her gaze steady as she looked into the dense fog. "Its just a spell formation, made by the Elders of the Five Tribes. It confuses one''s perception and leads travellers astray, guiding them away from our lands." Kai considered her words for a moment. "Is this how Sylvastra has remained untouched by foreign forces?" It would make sense if that was the case. "Partly," she replied. "But youll see the rest of it soon enough. For now, Jatamy spirit will help us reach our destination. It''s better to save your spells." Before Kai could ask what exactly she meant , a strange croaking sound echoed through the mist, sending a chill down his spine. He turned his head toward Gareth, who was at the bow of the boat, looking around warily. "Who was that? Whats going on?" Kai asked in just above a whisper. Gareth''s eyes narrowed as he stared into the mist. "Lord Arzan, we heard a croaking noise from somewhere nearby, but the mist is too thick to see anything." Kai, feeling his curiosity rise, made a quick decision. He conjured a wind spell, [Gust], shaping a gust of air to blow some of the mist away from around them. The fog parted slightly, revealing a large, jagged rock rising out of the water. On top of the rock sat a group of disproportionate toads, their bulbous bodies covered in slick, poisonous mucus. With the mucus, they shimmered, looking extremely out of place. Toads? Kai wondered if he could call them that for how they were. Their skin was mottled, an awful green, with deep, white eyes that gleamed unnaturally. Their long, slimy tongues flicked in and out, tasting the air hungrily. The toads'' bodies were swollen as if overfed on something that shouldn''t have been consumed. A strange, putrid odour emanated from them, and Kai just knew it was from the thick mucus that coated their bloated forms. He watched as their tongues lashed out, snapping at the air with unnerving speed. Raven gave a soft sigh, her voice almost wistful. "Croakclawsgrade 2 beasts. They like to hang around the Mistfen River. They''re territorial and venomous." Kai''s eyes never left the toads. He knew better than to underestimate a river beast knowing they were in their territory right now. "Should we do something about them?" Gareth asked, his hand already resting on the hilt of his sword. Raven shook her head lightly. "Not unless they attack. They''re part of the balance here. We have no need to disturb them. Jata will guide us safely past them." With that, she called upon her spirit once again. The green spirit twinkled as the mist swirled, and the toads, after a moment of staring at the group, gave a low croak before retreating further into the fog. Kai, still intrigued by the interaction, returned his attention to the water ahead. The mist seemed to part just a little more as they continued their journey, and with it, his anticipation grew. He kept looking for any more beast that might sprang up, moving onto stand right in the middle of the twins that roared the boat. I thought theyd be harmful, Gareth spoke up, rethinking the toads they left behind. Well Before Raven could respond, a loud croak came from behind. They all turned back to see one of the toads leapt up from the rock, its massive, slimy body soaring through the air like a big rock. It swung its thick, muscular tail toward the boat. The strike was wide, missing them entirely but sending a loud crack through the air as it slammed into the side of the boat. The boat groaned under the force, the wood splintering slightly. Kai let out a low grunt. "I believe that''s enough of a signal to know that they don''t like us here. Weapons up. Get ready in case they decide to attack again." His eyes locked on the toads, his hands already beginning to form spell structures. "Ill deal with them with my spells." As he finished speaking, more of the toads jumped from their rocky perches, launching themselves at the boat with alarming speed. Kais hands moved instinctively, weaving a wind spell to slice through the air, but the toads thick mucus-covered skin acted as defence against any attack. His wind blades only managed to create small cuts on their tough hides, not enough to stop them. "The mucus is both poisonous and a natural defence," Raven called out. "Be cautious. Dont let them touch you." Kai nodded. A whip-like tongue flashed through the air in front of him, and he quickly jumped back to avoid it. In that instant, Gareth lunged forward, taking the opportunity to cleave the tongue in two. The toad let out a deafening shriek of pain, thrashing violently as it reeled back. More toads joined, leaping toward the boat in a chaotic mess. Kai took a deep breath, deciding to go out as he used dual casting. Two complex spell formations began to spin in his palmsone a spiralling tornado of wind, the other a swirling inferno of flames. Within a few seconds, he finished with the spell structure and released both spells simultaneously. The tornado spun rapidly, sucking the air around them into a tight, furious vortex, while the flames within it blazed with fierce intensity. The swirling crimson vortex swept through the air, its tendrils lashing out at the toads, burning the toxic mucus off their bodies. The wind threw the creatures violently across the river, some crashing into the boat. Gorak and Gareth were quick to react, their weapons flashing as they defended the boat, cutting down any toads that got too close. Meanwhile, Raven began losing arrows with deadly accuracy. Each one striked down the toads that managed to escape the flames and wind. As the last of the toads were dispatched, Kai stood, watching the calm that followed the storm. His breathing was steady, and he looked toward Raven, his curiosity piqued. "Are there any other dangerous beasts in these waters?" he asked. Raven glanced around, her face unreadable. "There are a few," she replied. "Most of them are no worse than Grade 2, like the croakclaws, and they wont pose much of a challenge. But theres one creature you should be aware of: a Grade 5 kraken that resides in the river, somewhere beneath a submerged dungeon." Kais brow furrowed at her words. "A kraken? Youre telling me theres a kraken living under this river?" He was more than familiar with the beast, having read about it in the Sorcerer''s Tower. From what he recalled, it was written as an extinct beast called theReaper of the River. Raven nodded. "Yes, but it''s been in a slumber for centuries, deep beneath the river. We dont need to worry about it. Its not active, and its unlikely to surface any time soon." Kais eyes narrowed, rethinking what she had just spoken. "What do you mean by a submerged dungeon? Are you sure of it?" "Yes," she said. "The elves have records of it, but I dont know the exact location. No ones dared to explore it in ages. Its buried deep below the surface, and unless someone has a powerful water spirit, they wouldn''t be able to access it. Those types of spirits are incredibly rare, even among our kind." Kai nodded, remembering what Raven had mentioned about the elves'' connection to wind and earth spirits. Most elves would form contracts with those elemental spirits, and while there might be rare exceptions, spirits of fire or water were unlikely choices. He felt a flicker of curiosity about the submerged dungeon and the kraken, but there wasnt time to dwell on it. They had a mission to focus on. The group continued down the river without delay. Raven and Jata led the way, and along their journey, more beasts appeared to challenge them. Some were like the croakclaws, different creatures leaping from the riverbanks, while others were stranger and more dangerous First came shocker eels, their sleek, blue bodies winding through the water. Sparks flickered along their jagged fins as they surged toward the boats, but Kai quickly dealt with them. Using a mix of wind and fire spells, he kept the eels at a safe distance, their speed no match for his sharp, and focused attacks. Then came a school of piranlines, their shimmering scales and whipping tail catching the light as they lunged from below the surface. Their razor-sharp teeth snapped with terrifying speed to chew away at the boat, but before it could get close, Kai unleashed an ice spell, freezing them and Raven''s arrow took care of the rest. These attacks, though dangerous, werent enough to slow them down. Kai took care of most of the threats, keeping the group safe and on course. Soon, the scenery around them began to changethe river deepened, the air grew thicker with mana, and the creatures they encountered became stranger. After hours of travel, just as Kai was about to ask how much farther they had to go, he felt something unusual. A faint wave of mana brushed against him, subtle but distinct, like crossing an invisible threshold. He turned to Raven, curiosity written on his face as he waited for an explanation. "We''ve just crossed into the barrier that protects Sylvastra from the outside world," she explained, her voice sounding relieved. "We''ll be there in five minutes." Kai nodded. In his hours of travel, he had gotten a good idea of how the elves had hidden their home from foreign forces. With a mix of the fog, the river beast and the barrier, it was no wonder King Sullivan hadn''t been able to conquer Sylvastra. It also gave him a good idea on the power levels of the Elders. He had already guessed that they were strong. Any seer would be a force to reckon with, but if the Elders of the other tribes were similarly strong, then his decision to come here was feeling more and more right. He could only imagine the amount of mana required to sustain such an enchantment, but it made sense. The elves clearly knew how to maintain their isolation. They continued forward, the boat cutting through the water until, soon enough, a shoreline began to materialize. However, calling it a shore didn''t seem quite right. What lay before them was a vast, sprawling forest, the trees towering higher than anything Kai had ever seen before. Their trunks were thick, their branches stretching up towards the sky, and the canopy above was alive with movement. Glowing butterflies flitted between the leaves, their soft light illuminating the darkened spaces of the forest. Strange plants with bioluminescent flowers bloomed at the edges of the river soft, pulsing light covering the water. For a moment, Kai stood in stunned silence, his gaze sweeping over the alien beauty of the place. As he took his first step onto the land, he felt an overwhelming surge of mana in the air. It pressed down on him, not with weight, but with a tangible force that seemed to fill every inch of his being. Each breath he took was filled with energy, and his senses seemed heightened, sharper, as if the very air was alive with the power of the land. His eyes narrowed, absorbing the dense mana, and he knew, without a doubt, that he was stepping into a place unlike any he had ever experienced. Sylvastra was not just a city or a forestit was a living, breathing entity, one that thrived in ways Kai could barely comprehend. He briefly recalled the overwhelming sensation he had experienced when he first arrived in this worldthe pure mana had been bliss to him after years of limited mana in the air. It had been a shock to his senses, unlike anything he''d ever encountered. But this? This was something different. The mana here seemed alive, flowing through the very air and earth, and Kai could feel it, almost as if it were reaching out to touch him, filling him with an energy hed never known before. He could have stayed there, rooted to the spot, basking in the overwhelming mana, but just then, Gareths voice broke through his reverie. "Lord Arzan, see! Elves! So many of them!" Kais attention snapped back to the present, and he turned his gaze toward the group Gareth was pointing at. Before him, a gathering of elves stood, moving through the forest like wisps of smoke. There were elves of all ages, from children to elders, dressed in clothing that was different from anything Kai had seen beforeflowing robes, leaf-stitched patterns, and beautiful, but unique pieces of jewellery that shimmered with the glow of natural materials. Their attire was ethereal, almost as if their very clothing was made from the forest itself. Their faces were a mixture of curiosity as they whispered amongst themselves in a language that Kai couldn''t understand, though the tone of their speech felt soft, melodic, and ancient. Just as he was about to ask Raven about them, she waved enthusiastically and called out, Ive returned! With that, she moved forward towards the crowd, her presence clearly recognized and welcomed by the elves, many of them nodding in greeting as she passed. Kai let her take the lead, noticing a small group moving through the crowdA man, a woman, and a younger boy, their features unmistakably resembling Ravens. He watched quietly as the family enveloped her in a warm, tight hug, their faces softening with relief and joy. "Lira en tael farn, venar sal nael''vian!" the tallest among the group, the man yelled. "Elen na, fael, Raven squealed with a bright smile on her face. That was rare, considering she had been the mostly reserved, silent type. But it made sense. It was a touching moment, and Kai allowed them their privacy, stepping back and letting them have their time together. But as Raven reunited with her family, something else caught his attention. Whispers passed through the crowd, a wave of gasps that stirred the air, and then the large group of elves parted. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. From the midst of the gathering emerged five older elves. The air around them seemed to shift as if the forest itself bowed in respect. They moved gracefully and got closer. From what Raven had told him, Kai guessed that they were the five tribe elders, the rulers of Sylvastra, and the very heart of elven governance. Their eyes, wise and ancient, turned to Kai as they approached. But as their gazes swept over him, it was the woman in the centre who caught his attention most sharply. Valeirith, the one who had given him the vision, the one who had seen his past. Kais breath caught for a moment as his eyes locked with hers. There was an undeniable recognition, and as she looked at him, her lips curled into a smile that seemed both knowing and pleased. Youve arrived, Fatebreaker, she said, her small eyes smiling at him. Im glad. She spoke in common language for Kai to understand, and Kai nodded. Before he could respond, with a surprising speed, she stepped forward and took his hands in her own, her gaze sparkling as she held them. Kai hesitated for a moment, the instinct to break free almost overwhelming, but he held still, intrigued by her sudden closeness. The other elders seemed to stiffen at her actions, their expressions unreadable, but Valeiriths eyes never left his, her smile widening ever so slightly. Kai looked down at her, meeting her gaze, and asked, You called me here for a reason. I have questions. Her smile never faltered as she spoke. Who doesnt have questions? She tilted her head slightly, her eyes glimmering. But come, I will answer some of them. Others you will have to ask someone else. Someone who had been waiting to speak to you. Kai raised an eyebrow. Who? The Elder Tree, she replied simply. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 158. End times Kai and the rest of his troupe moved gracefully through the lands of Sylvastra, following the five elf elders who walked alongside him. They were all quiet, leaving past all the hushed whispers. But their eyes spoke a lotthey were fixed on Kai and his group as if they were rare beasts they had never seen before. That was trueKai doubted most elves had gone far enough from their ancient forest to see humans in person. Kai ignored the stares he was getting from the elder elves and continued to walk. He noticed that the ordinary elves who had gathered earlier to watch had already dispersed, probably returning to their homes and tasks. Raven had also left, taking her family with her after asking Kai for permission. Without a pause, he had agreed. As they walked, his eyes were drawn upward to the towering trees that surrounded them. He felt dwarfed by their sheer size, every single one reached into the sky like the pillars of some vast natural cathedral. Their thick trunks were a deep, rich brown, and their leaves shimmered faintly with colours that seemed to shift in the lightgold, green, and silver blending seamlessly He noticed fruits hanging from some branches, glowing faintly. The mana rich environment seemed to have an effect on them and he was sure that they would have special properties. Kai''s eyes brightened as they landed on one particular tree he recognizedLightwood. Kai, knowing the importance of lightwoodespecially for the creation of armour for the upcoming battlesdidnt hesitate to take a closer look. he thought to himself as his eyes trailed upward of the tree. Its bark was smooth and pale, almost white, with veins of soft, ethereal golden light running through it. The leaves were small, veiny, and translucent, and they glowed in the shade. Once he laid eyes on the majestic tree, he found himself unable to look away. It was almost as if the tree were calling to him. Then again, it could simply be the overwhelming abundance of mana saturating the air. He was certain that more than half of these trees were potent sources of mana. Kai sighed in delight. In a way, Sylvastra was a paradise for Mages and alchemistsa dream come true. If he could spend just a year here, he was confident he could break past the fifth circle. V''aleirith, who was walking beside him, must have noticed his wandering gaze because she slowed down her steps and finally broke the silence. Her voice was weary but extremely calm when she spoke. "You look fascinated and it seems like you didn''t come here just to learn about the prophecy." Kai shifted his attention to her, their eyes meeting. "There are a few reasons, but the main one is the prophecy of the cycle of life and death. Ive found no mention of it anywhere else." "Thats not surprising. The prophecy is ancientso old that it predates many of our written records. Prophecies are tricky things, Arzan. Some come true, some dont, and many are simply forgotten, lost to the flow of time. But this one weve seen signs. Tangible signs of its fulfillment. And because of its nature, weve worked hard to keep it hidden from the world. If it were to become widely known, the chaos it could unleash would be immeasurable." Her eyes shifted to the trees that they were passing, distant in thought. "Parasites always emerge during times of great change, at the ends of cycles. Weve seen their influence before, and we see it again now." Kai''s eyes darkened at her words. "Is it truly the end of times?" His mind wandered back to the true end he had once lived through. That had been one hell of a nightmare, and compared to that, the current era seemed peaceful, even though there were totally different challenges for him to face. V''aleirith looked at him thoughtfully, her silver eyebrows frowning at his words. "Perhaps not the end as you imagine it," she said. "But it is the beginning of an end. If we fail to act, what follows may come sooner than we estimate. And if it does, no onenot elves, not humans, nor any other racewill be ready for whats to come." As they continued their conversation, a voice from behind cut through the quiet forest. It was sharp and dripping with disapproval. What we are doing is blasphemous, an elf yelled from behind. Kai turned back to see an extremely tall elf. His facial expressions refrained him from showing any emotions but he stared right at Elder V''aleirith. We are going against everything Sylvastra has stood for. Not only are we letting an outsider and his companions tread these sacred grounds, but one who clearly has no selfless intentions. Elder V''aleirith sighed, letting a huge breath of air through her nose. You dont decide who is selfish and who is selfless, Caelith, she replied. From what Ive seen of him, he wishes to stop the prophecy as much as we do. Perhaps even more so. she gave a silent nod to Kai, as if she understood his intentions. Anyone who dares to go against fate is selfless, no matter what their reasons might appear to be. The elf, Caelith scoffed, his voice rising. You speak as if you know his heart. But how can you? Letting him in was already a mistake. Bringing him here, during the Rite of Bindingno outsider has ever been part of it! What if something goes wrong because of them? Another elder, older, with short hair, turned his gaze on the man. Enough, he said. Weve already allowed them in. Hostility serves no purpose now. But, Flossbor Caelith began, only to be cut off again. Be silent, Elder V''aleirith snapped this time, clearly looking like her patience was thinning. No one will do anything to disrupt the rite. Keep walking, or leave if you cant hold your tongue. But dont open your mouth just to spout foolish assumptions like a senile fool. Caelith let out a frustrated huff, muttering under his breath, but he said no more. Kai watched the exchange with quiet curiosity. He filed the term Rite of Binding away in his mind, deciding to ask about it later. But he didnt think V''aleirith would lose her patience like that. Throughout the interactions they''d had, she''d been extremely calm, and patient. And to stand up for him against a fellow council elder spoke volumes. It made the reason for his presence here and the prophecy much more important in his mind. No one spoke after that as they moved through a narrow path surrounded by redwoods. Soon, the forest began to open up. The trees around them grew sparser. A soft light swept through their enormous trunks. But it wasnt that made him stop in his tracks. A slight gasp escaped his lips. The clearing was right in front of them, and in the centre, stood the Elder Tree. If the other trees of Sylvastra were majestic giants, this one was their god. Its trunk was impossibly thick, rising straight into the sky until its top disappeared into the clouds. Branches spread out like the arms of the sky, and roots twisted and coiled across the ground, glowing faintly with veins of pure mana. The air was heavy with energy, thick enough that Kai felt his skin prickle and his breath catch. The emerald-green leaves twinkled, speckled with golden light, as though the tree itself held the stars within its canopy. Tiny orbs of light floated lazily around it, moving in different, meandering patterns. At first glance, they looked like glowing fireflies, but as Kai squinted, he realized they werent insects. They were spirits, their forms shifting and moving with soft, flickering shapes. The entire scene was overwhelming, like stepping into a painting too grand and vibrant to be real. The Elder Tree wasnt just aliveit pulsed with the purest mana Kai had ever felt. It was as if the tree was the heart of the world. The beats echoed through the forest. His companions were equally stunned. Claires eyes were wide, her voice barely above a whisper. Its so pretty, she said, the awe clear in her tone and her eyes. The rest of the people agreed with her. They all nodded but were too busy taking in the surreal image of the tree to say anything. Kais fingers itched with the urge to reach out at one of the glowing roots, to feel the raw energy coursing through it. But he resisted, knowing better than to disrupt something so sacred. For a moment, he simply stood there, letting the sight burn itself into his memory. The Elder Tree wasnt just a marvelit was a promise, a reminder of the power that flowed through Sylvastra and the importance of the journey that hed come so far for. He felt lucky to be able to witness something so flourishing. He turned to look at the elders looking at them. Elder V''aleirith''s smile was warm as she took in their wide-eyed reactions to the Elder Tree. She stepped towards Kai. Im glad your companions liked it, she said. But from here, we must continue alone. The rest of you will need to stay behind. Before Kai could respond, Gareth stepped forward. I cant leave Lord Arzans side. Im here to protect him. Elder V''aleirith''s smile didn''t falter. If anything, it grew more patient, almost grandmotherly. Dont worry, young knight, she said. I wont hurt him. I must protect him as well. Her eyes softened, but her voice remained commanding. Weve already prepared accommodations with the tribes for all of you. Follow Flossbor and the other eldersthey will guide you safely. Gareth hesitated, his hand instinctively moving to his sword hilt. His gaze flicked between Kai and the elves, distrust clear in his stance. Kai stepped forward, placing a hand on Gareths shoulder. Its fine. Go with the others. Ill be fine. Claire frowned but said nothing, her worry plain on her face. The mercenaries exchanged uneasy glances, but Kais expression left no room for argument. Reluctantly, they turned to follow Flossbor and the elders, who waited patiently at the edge of the clearing. Kai watched them go, his eyes lingering as they disappeared into the dense forest. Only when the last of their figures were gone did he turn back to V''aleirith, who stood watching him with a small, knowing smile. This reminds me of our first meeting in the dream. Back then, I couldnt even speak properly with you. But now, we can talk in peace. Kai nodded, his eyes flickering to the towering Elder Tree. You said the Elder Tree wanted to talk to me. How? V''aleirith began walking, her steps light as she guided herself with the stick she carried, and Kai followed her. The Elder Tree speaks to all of us, she said. You just need to listen with an open heart. Kai frowned, clearly confused. Open heart? She chuckled softly, turning to him with a small, apologetic smile. Im sorry. Let me be clearer. To hear the Elder Tree, you need to touch it. It will communicate with you directly. She gestured toward the massive trunk. The experience will be unlike anything youve ever known. Unique to you. So, Id say, open your heart to it. Hear it, see it. Kais gaze moved upward, tracing the trunk of the Elder Tree as it disappeared into the sky. And Ill get my answers? he asked. Some of them. Ive already peered into your soul. Forgive me, but it was necessary to understand the Fatebreaker before calling for your help. Kai tilted his head and looked back at the elder. Her small smile gave way to so many other questions. Fatebreaker? A Fatebreaker is someone who defies their predetermined fate. Most lives follow a thread, a path that is already destined for them. But you... When you chose to jump through time, you severed those threads. You became untethered, free from the constraints of fate. Such acts usually come at a costdeath, madness, or worse. Yet you survived. And in doing so, you became a Fatebreaker, one who can influence the fate of this world. Kai absorbed her words in silence. If you can see fate, he said slowly, then what is this worlds fate? You already know it. He nodded, his jaw tightening. Yes, but why? His voice rose slightly, emotion breaking through his controlled tone. Why is it doomed to destruction? I always thought it was because of ushumans. Wars, greed, blind conquest with no thought for the innocent. We created forbidden zones, dead mana that spread like poison, suffocating the world. But now, youre telling me this was always supposed to happen? His hands clenched into fists at his sides, his eyes burning with frustration as he looked into hers. Why? Her eyes softened, but there was no answer on her face. The ancient burden of knowledge weighed heavily in her gaze, and for a moment, she said nothing, letting the silence stretch between them. I wont give you that answer, she said. The Elder Tree will. You just have to ask for it. Kai turned his head to look at her, searching her expression for any sign of deceit. There was none. Just quiet conviction. Okay, he said finally, exhaling softly. Ill ask for it. He turned toward the Elder Tree, its immense presence looming before him. He took one step after another, moving towards it. And it all felt heavy. His thoughts, the manaeverything. His breathing slowed as he finally stood in front of the tree, its bark looking like a mosaic of twisting patterns that were faintly pulsing with light. When he placed his hand in the tree, he saw his veins through the bright golden glow of its bark. And, he waited. For a heartbeat, nothing happened. Then, a sudden force yanked him forward, as though the tree itself had reached out and pulled him in. The world around him vanished in an instant, leaving only darknessvast and endless. *** Amyra sat cross-legged on the rooftop, her fingers absently tracing the grooves in the tiles as she gazed down at the training yard below. Sentinel, her creation, towered over the guards as Knight Killian barked orders left and right. The golem, with its hulking frame and glowing core, moved methodically, swatting away strikes and lurching forward in calculated bursts. A slight smile played on her lips as she watched her work in action. Though she couldnt be down there among them, thanks to Knight Killians insistence on her recovery, this was enough for now. Watching Sentinel perform filled her with a quiet pride. Every block, every movement, felt like a validation of the hours shed poured into its creation. Her smile faltered slightly as her thoughts wandered. From what shed gathered through hushed conversations with the maids, the forge was a treasure trove of possibilities right now. Diagrams and blueprints of other golems filled the space, some of them sketched by none other than Lord Arzan himself. One design in particular intrigued hera smaller construct resembling a bird, something the maids called drones. She didnt fully understand what they were, but the thought of exploring their design stirred an ache of curiosity in her chest. Yet, for now, the forge was off-limits to her. Amyra sighed, her gaze returning to Sentinel as it deflected another attack. The core in its chest pulsed faintly. Amyra, a voice called from behind her. Startled, she turned to see Princess Amara standing a few paces away. A subtle smile on her face as she clutched her hands in front of her and looked at her. What are you doing up here? Princess Amara asked. Amyra turned back to the training yard. I was watching the training session, Princess Amara. Amara walked towards the railings gracefully and leaned slightly, peering at the scene below. You can call me Amara, she said. Our names are already similar enough. Amyra shook her head slightly. Our statuses arent. The princess laughed softly, brushing her hair aside. That doesnt matter. I heard youre a Mage being taught by Count Arzan himself. That makes your status higher than a commoners, doesnt it? So, call me Amara. At least when were not in public. Amyra glanced at her, surprised by the casual offer. She hesitated before finally nodding. Alright Amara. It felt weirdto call a princess by her name. But Amyra wasnt the one to disrespect a kind offer. Good, Princess Amara said, a satisfied grin spreading across her face. She sat down beside Amyra, her attention briefly flicking back to the training yard. So, whats it like? Seeing something you made standing there like that? The other maids told me that golem was yours. It feels Amyra paused, searching for the right words. It feels fulfilling. Like part of me is out there, helping in some way. I imagine it must be. But I also imagine you want to do more. Amyra tilted her head. Why are you here, Amara? The princess turned to her, her grin returning. I was bored. And I wanted to get to know you better. Amyra blinked, taken aback. Why? Why not? Amara said simply, as if it were the most obvious answer in the world. Youre fascinating. And if Count Arzan trusts your potential enough to mentor you, then I think youre worth knowing. Amyra didnt know how to respond to that. She turned her attention back to Sentinel, her mind swirling with questions. "I heard you played a big role during the beast wave. Your powers even protected Knight Kiliian. Thats incredible. Honestly, Im just fascinated by you. Ive never been in a battle, you know." Amyra turned to her, studying her expression. Just that is enough for you to want to get to know me better? she asked sceptically. sea??h th ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Amaras blush deepened, and she laughed softly, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. Well, that and the fact that youre being taught by Count Arzan, she admitted. I heard he rescued you. He helped me out too, so I guess I feel like we have some things in common. Thats why I wanted to get to know you better. Amyra raised an eyebrow but stayed quiet, letting Amara continue. Besides, the princess added, Ive never really had friends. My maid, Anya, is always there for me, but she doesnt treat me like a friend. She treats me like someone she serves. Now that Im here in Veralt, I thought maybe I could try. Make an effort, you know? So She hesitated, glancing at Amyra shyly. How about it, Amyra? Will you be my friend? *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 159. Elder tree As soon as Kai set his hand on the bark, his emotions flared up. It wasnt just a physical reactionit was as if his very being was reaching out to something beyond the confines of the world he knew. He could feel his perception expand, not just on a sensory level, but something more primal, more universal. It was as though his mind had been opened, not just to the tree before him, but to the very essence of the world. It was as though his consciousness was touching every part of existenceevery root, every leaf, every pulse of life, every hum of energy. He felt his connection to the elder tree running deeper; not just mentally, it grew cellular, maybe even astral. The very fibers of his being seemed to intertwine with the tree''s, as if he and it were two halves of a whole. Kai relaxed his previously stiffened hand. The sudden rush of power was overwhelming at first, but soon it felt naturallike it had always been there, hidden beneath the surface of his awareness. He could feel the trees entire body, stretching deep beneath the earth, its roots spreading like veins across the land, seeking the unseen. He felt its branches reaching out to the sky, its leaves rustling in the distant winds. His mind rang, and in the resonance, he heard the trees ancient voice, a voice that was not spoken but felt, as if it had always existed within the rhythms of life itself. And with that connection came visionsimages swirling through his mind. Kai saw the world as it was when the Elder Tree was first bornjust a small sprout, barely more than a seed, looking up at the vast unknown. He felt its quiet awe at the world around it, its slow realization that it held power within. He saw how it grew, slowly at first, a sapling sending out tiny roots, feeling its way into the earth. He could feel the mana that had flowed through it, the power it had affected the world with, and how it had grown into a massive, towering tree. He felt its first encounter with a beasthow it had sensed the wild forces of nature and faced them with the quiet strength it had yet to fully understand. And then came the elvesthe first to encounter it when it had truly realized the extent of its power. Kai felt the connection form, the exchange between themhow the elder tree had blessed them, and in return, how they had revered it, connecting their lives with its presence. Since then, their bond grew. The mutual respect, the deep understandingit had been a symbiotic relationship that had lasted through generations. Kai saw all of it. But the trees story didnt end there. He saw how its roots slowly spread beyond the land, reaching into places he could never have imagined, its consciousness growing, learning, and expanding. He saw the generations come and go, the elves, the beasts, the land itselfeach passing and changing with time, while the tree remained steadfast, a living testament to the passage of ages. It had witnessed history unfold, the rise and fall of kingdoms, and had seen the first human Magea figure who had approached it, touched it, and unlocked the power of mana. This Mage, Kai saw in vivid clarity, had created the first spell structures and circles in his heart, laying the foundation for all that would come after. The tree had watched as the Mage passed on this knowledge, teaching the world how to harness the raw power of the universe, shaping the course of magic as it was known. Kai felt everythingthe trees excitement, its eagerness to share its entire existence. Every branch, every leaf, every inch of berk resonated with memories, both joyful and sorrowful, spanning centuries. The tree had seen so much, learned so much, and as the images flowed through Kai, he could feel its essence beside him, almost like a second presence within his own mind. The bond between them grew stronger, a connection deeper than any he had ever known. But then, just as suddenly as it had started, the visions ceased. The trees presence was still there, and its voice, now softer, asked him a questionnot in words, but in thought, a silent exchange of understanding. For a moment, Kai was still, his mind reeling from the flood of visions. But he didnt hesitate. He didnt pull away. In the silence of the moment, he shared. He shared the story of his birth on the streets of a dying city, surrounded by the ruins of a world that had lost its way. He saw the day he met his master, the one who had seen potential in him and had taken him into the Sorcerers Tower. He shared his years of study, of becoming stronger, of facing challenges that had shaped him into the Magus he became and the Mage he was now. And then, he spoke of the desperation he feltof watching the world crumble around him, of seeing the loss of humanity, of losing the people he cared for, bit by bit, as the ugly darkness spread. It still felt raw. He still felt the pain as if it was happening in the moment, maybe because his previous life played in his mind that he remembered everything to the very core. But, he didnt hold back. The Elder Tree, in its infinite patience, listened to his story, and for the first time in his life, he felt truly heardtruly seen. It pained even more as the memories led him to the moment of his masters death. He was a young, rash man back then, impulsively searching for a way to combat the ever-encroaching dead mana. His journey had brought him to a ruin, a place rumored to hold the key to battling corruption. But in the end, it had been a trapa cruel snare from which there was no escape. His master, the one who had always guided him, had come to his rescue, but it was too late. The fiends in that forsaken place had already corrupted him. With his dying breath, his master had made Kai swear an oathto save the world, to stop the curse that was destroying everything. As the memory settled into Kai''s chest like a stone, his soul shook violently. He could feel itthe grief, the guilt, the lossall of it threatening to overwhelm him. His breath became shallow, his body tense, and his mind spiraled back into the trauma of that moment. But just as he thought he might be consumed by the weight of it, something unexpected happened. A presencecalm, steady, and warmwrapped itself around him. The Elder Tree was there, consoling him. The energy enveloped him like a very well needed soft embrace, as though it understood his pain. Kai fought to push past the memories, shaking his head, willing himself to focus. He steeled himself, determined to get to the questions he had been carrying with him for so longthe ones that had brought him to this very place. What is the prophecy of the cycle of life and death? he asked, his voice steady, though his heart raced. How can I defend against it? The Elder Tree grew quiet, as if considering his words. Then, a ripple of energy pulsed through the ground, and for a moment, Kai thought the entire world had stilled. The sensation was so clear that it made his soul tremble, and when it passed, the world around him shifted. He found himself reliving a memorynot his own, but a memory from times beginning. He saw a world bathed in an unbearable heat, a world so scorched that no life could survive. It was a world of fire and chaos, the air thick with the intensity of life struggling to take form. And then, slowly, it began to cool. The land began to take shape, the raw elements of nature coalescing into something morea planet becoming habitable. Kai watched in awe as life began to materialize in small, fragile formsbacteria, plant life, and slowly, more complex organisms. From the heat, the world cooled, and from the cooling, life emerged. The elements came together, intertwining, and with them, the gods rose, not one, but many. The energy that had once been raw and untamed began to settle into patterns, and mana itself gave birth to a new age of creation. The Elder Tree showed him how humans evolved, how they learned magichow their race, along with othersbeasts, elves, and morehad flourished. Kai watched as civilizations rose and fell, as the wheel of life continued to turn. The images came in waves, showing him the origins of life, the rise of magic, the connection between all living things. And then, just as Kai thought he had seen it all, a voice rang in his minda voice that seemed to come from the very depths of the universe. It was godly, powerful, and heavy, like a judgment passed from the cosmos itself. The words settled into Kais heart, heavy with meaning. It was a truth he had always known, but hearing it now, from the mouth of some higher power, made it feel all the more real, all the more inescapable. He felt it deep within himselfthe weight of life and death, the inevitability of it. But the tree wasnt done. Kai felt another pull, a deep, insistent tug at his consciousness, and suddenly, the world around him shifted once more. He was shown a scenea vision so startling that it made him widen his eyes in disbelief. It was a place, a moment, from far beyond what he had seen before. The image wasnt just from the past, it wasnt even from the presentit was from a future he had witnessed and even going beyond it. A great darkness, vast and consuming, spread across the land. It was as though life was being strangled by the very forces of death. The world was no longer familiar, no longer the vibrant place he had known. It was desolate, cold, and devoid of everything that had once thrived. Kais heart pounded as he stared at the image, the implications of it sinking in with terrifying clarity. This was the end. The cycle that had been set into motion all those years ago was coming to its inevitable conclusion. S~ea??h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. And Kaihe was at the center of it. The vision continued, and Kais heart sank as the images unfolded before him. He saw how the world would end, consumed by the very force that had been creeping in from the shadowsthe dead mana. It was slow at first, subtle even, but with the Elder Tree at the end of its lifespan, the inevitable unraveling began. The fiends, twisted and foul, began to rise, led by a monstrous dragon, a creature formed from the very essence of dead mana itself. Mana began to decayits vitality draining, turning lifeless and cold. Wars broke out, not for conquest, but to hasten the process of destruction, to increase the spread of dead mana. Kai watched as the cycle of death consumed the world. Humans, elves, minotaursnothing would survive. The races that once populated the land would perish, their civilizations reduced to ash. Only the mindless fiends would remain, battling each other for survival, a twisted mirror of the world before. The Elder Tree spoke again, its voice resonating deep within Kais mind, the weight of its words pressing down on his soul. Kai felt a chill run through him. The end was inevitable, unless... the elder tree continued, Kais thoughts raced as he stood frozen in the depths of this terrible truth. He had never imagined such a thing could be within his reach. How could heone manstand against the force of fate itself? Desperation and confusion rose within him. His mind ached with questions, and finally, he spoke in a raw voice, that came out as a croak with all the emotions overwhelming him. "How can I do it? How can I stop this?" The elder trees response came softly, as though it had been waiting for him to ask. it said. Kai frowned. Kai felt the full force of those words hit him like a tidal wave. He had regressed, had hoped for a second chance, but now the responsibilitythe weight of the worldwas placed squarely on his shoulders. He was the one who could change it? It seemed impossible, too much to bear. But the tree wasnt done. the elder tree continued, And with those final words, Kai felt the trees presence envelop him once more, as if it was hugging him, comforting him in his pain and uncertainty. The warmth that spread through him was a reminder that, despite the immense burden, he was not alone in this. The tree would be with him, no matter what. But as the warmth washed over him, a sharp sense of anxiety pierced his chest. The worldthe fate of all liferested on his shoulders. He could no longer deny it; he was the key to either salvation or destruction. Kai stood there, his mind racing. Was everything that had happened since his regression just leading him to this moment? Was this always his purpose, to break the cycle of life and death? He didnt know. How could he know? Fate was strange, full of twists and turns, and though he had been granted this power, it was a gift he hadnt asked for and couldnt deny. Questions still swirled in his mindthings he had yet to understand. But before he could ask them, before he could seek further answers, the pull of the Elder Tree began to lessen. The connection between them began to fade, the bond growing distant as Kai was gently yanked back to reality. The world around him shifted once more. The soft whisper of the Elder Trees energy faded, leaving only the silence of the present. Kai stood alone, breathing heavily, his mind reeling. He hadnt noticed him going down on his knees, putting his entire weight on the tree. But he didnt care. His mind was still reeling from the overwhelming vision. Arzan Kai blinked, letting out a gasp and coming out of the sensations. He found himself staring up at Elder Valeirith, who was gazing down on him with a knowing expression before his eyes went back to the Elder Tree. He struggled to comprehend the flood of images, memories, and responsibility that had just been thrust upon him. His mind felt heavy with the weight of what he had seen, but the Elder Tree''s presence was in his minda warmth that had felt like the embrace of a long-lost father, soothing yet ominous. Valeirith broke the silence. "It seems youve had quite the experience, just as I thought," she said. "How do you feel?" Kai''s throat tightened, and he exhaled slowly. "Unpleasant," he muttered, struggling to find the right words. "The Elder Tree... it was warm, like the touch of a long-lost father. But whatever I saw, it was... unpleasant. I feel like my responsibilities have just increased." She nodded slowly, her gaze lingering on him. "I guess thats true," she said thoughtfully. "But does that mean youve accepted your role as a Fatebreaker? Will you carry it forward and save the Elder Tree?" The way she phrased it made Kai pause. There was hesitation in her voice, a hint of anxiety that seemed to lace her words. But Kais decision had already solidified in his heart. He had always carried the weight of responsibility, from his oath to his desire to protect those he cared about. Being a Fatebreaker didnt seem all that different from the vow he had made to himself long ago. The only difference now was the magnitude of the stakes. If he could prevent the cataclysm, if he could save the Elder Tree, then maybejust maybethe death cycle wouldn''t arrive. After all, the tree''s death was the catalyst for it all. Kai nodded steadily. "Yes," he said. "But are you really sure the Elder Tree is going to die anytime soon? It looks quite healthy to me." Elder Valeirith smiled softly, but there was a weariness in her eyes. "I know it looks that way. But its not really the case." She stepped forward, placing her hand on the Elder Tree, her eyes closing as if in silent communication with the ancient being. Kai watched in silence, and then something shifted. A subtle tremor ran through the earth beneath his feet, and the roots of the Elder Tree began to move. They twisted, curled, and crawled back, revealing patches of dead groundbrown and decaying where life should have been thriving. Kais breath caught in his throat as he stared at the sight before him. The which-shouldve been vibrant roots now appeared withered and lifeless, a complete difference to the lush canopy above. He realized, with a growing sense of dread, that the putrid scent of decay had been hidden beneath the trees branches and the fragrant air that surrounded them. His voice faltered as he turned to Elder Valeirith, his eyes wide with shock. "How did this happen?" She sighed, a sad smile on her lips. "What is birthed must eventually meet its end," she said quietly. "The Elder Tree is no different. Its time is coming, and with it, the cycle of life and death is beginning to shift toward the death part." Kai stood still, his eyes fixed on the dead roots, the grim reality settling into his bones. He then turned to Elder Valeirith, the question on his lips, one that had burned in his mind since he saw the destruction that would come with the trees death. "Is there a way to save it?" Elder Valeirith looked at him and tilted her head sadly. "There are theories. But each one of them is mostly impossible. We''ve triedme, the Council of Eldersbut none have worked. There are other ways, but I dont know if they will succeed." Kais gaze narrowed as he processed her words. His instincts told him that there had to be a way, something he could do, and the Elder Trees death couldnt be the end. "Can I take a look at them?" She nodded. "Yes, you can take a look at the theories," she said softly. "But while you do so, I will gather something for you. Something you may need." Kai raised an eyebrow. "What will that be?" he asked, not sure what to expect. The elfs lips curled into a small, knowing smile. "Druidic magic books. I know youre looking for them." Kais brow furrowed, confusion rippling through him. "How do you know that?" Her eyes sparkled and she gave her hand to lift him up. "You seemed to have forgotten, but Im a seer. I see more than you might think." Kai felt a sudden shiver run through him. He couldnt speak or respond to that knowing she had known his intentions all along, therefore, he nodded slowly. "Let''s go now. Theres a lot for you to do, Fatebreaker." - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying Dao of Money so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 160. Drudic magic Although Kai knew that elves were the authoritative figures on druidic magic, he couldnt help but gape in awe as Elder Valeirith led him to the top floor of the library that was shared by the five tribes. The magnitude of the collection was overwhelming. Shelves stretched high, stacked with countless books. Kais eyes darted over the rows, most of them dedicated to druidic magic, with others exploring different types of magic in ways that were entirely foreign to him. Some volumes even explained entire spells, while others focused on spirits, magical creatures, and the mysteries of the natural world. He couldnt help but be entranced. At that moment, standing amidst the towering shelves, Kai wondered if he should just stay in Sylvastra longer, gathering all the knowledge he could. But that was an impossible thought. His stay in the land of the elves needed to be brief, particularly now that he knew about the prophecy and the cycle of life and death. The weight of the world''s impending destruction pressed on him, and the realization that he was the only one who could stop it felt heavy on his shoulders. There was no time to waste. As much as he wanted to talk further with Elder Valeirith about what he had seen in the Elder Trees vision, the lure of the books was too great. And he knew he had to gain as much knowledge as he could. Hence, he decided to dive in, hoping to learn something that could aid him in the coming battles against Lucian and Queen Regina. He spent most of the night pouring over the books, seeking to understand more of druidic magic. What he found fascinated him. Kai had always thought of druidic Mages as strategic figures, relying on their bonds with beasts to spy or fight, using whatever creatures they could form a connection with. In his mind, they often worked with weaker beasts, since they weren''t difficult to bond with. But the books painted a far richer picture. The texts described how druidic Mages could do much more than simply bondthey could take on the abilities of the beasts they connected with, something Kai had never imagined. The book he found, written by Elris Rainjerdescribed in great detail the experience of an elf bonding with a grade 1 ashen bear. Sar?h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Through the bond, the elf was able to briefly gain the creature''s strength, his hands transforming into claws capable of rending stone. The description left Kai breathless. Such an ability would elevate druidic magic far beyond the power of summoners, even though both magics shared the common thread of connecting to creatures. The thought that druids could harness the very essence of their bonded creatures, borrowing their strength, speed, or senses, sent a shiver of excitement through Kai. He closed the book with a sense of awe, his mind racing. He knew that if he could learn to tap into such powers, it could be the key to gain even more battle prowess for his territory. But there was so much more to understand, so much more to explore. The previous thought of staying here and learning more nagged at his mind. He sighed. Time, however, was not on his side. He couldnt afford to lose himself in the pages of books, no matter how tempting they were. The world was waiting. Therefore, he kept opening and closing books after books, adding it to the growing pile of volumes next to him. After finishing the twentieth book, he stretched his limbs, feeling the slight ache from hours of sitting and reading. His mind was buzzing with new knowledge, though it was still a bit foggy from the information overload. A yawn slipped from his lips as sleepiness crept in. To counteract the weariness, he cast another [Refresh] spell, the familiar surge of energy washing over him and clearing the haze in his mind. With his focus restored, he looked around the library, marveling at the structure. The entire library was built within a massive tree. Its wooden walls curved and twisted like branches outside. Kai couldnt help but feel like the library was an extension of nature. It wasnt just the library if he thought about it, most of Sylvastra was similar. A lot of the houses were nestled within the massive trees, branches used as chairs, platforms and bridges, connecting the people who lived within these places. It made sense, given how large the trees were, their trunks towering and wide enough to house entire buildings. And every time he inhaled, the strong scent of flowers and herbs filled his nostrils. The atmosphere was energizing in a way that felt deeply rooted in the world around him. Kai reached for another book, eager to continue his research, but before he could pull it from the shelf, a voice cut through the quiet hum of the library. Two figures entered the room, their eyes locking onto Kai. He recognized them instantlythey were elders. Flossbor and Caelith. Caelith, the one who had been vocal in his opposition to Kai before, eyed him warily as they walked closer. His pointy ears twitched in annoyance as soon as he saw him. On the other hand, Flossbor gave him a faint smile. Kai watched as Caelith''s gaze flicked over the table, taking in the piles of books he had read. He squinted his eyes, then picked up one of the books with an almost dismissive gesture. "Not even a day since you arrived," he said in a sharp tone. "And already you''re feasting on our knowledge, Fatebreaker. So many books read in a single night. Do you intend to run away soon with the knowledge?" Flossbor sighed deeply, shaking his head. "Caelith, stop with that. There''s no need to be antagonistic toward him," he chided gently. "I''m not being antagonistic," Caelith retorted. "I just know how humans are. Even Maleficia is full of them. You can''t trust him." Kai took a moment to absorb their words, especially the mention of . Elder Valeirith had spoken of it briefly yesterday, but now, the term seemed more significant. His curiosity piqued, but for now, he focused on the immediate tension in the room. "You can call me Arzan," Kai said. "And yes, I''ve learned a lot from your knowledge here. It''s certainly very interesting. But no, I dont intend to run." His gaze shifted, meeting Caelith''s eyes. "I have an oath to carry, and the Elder Tree tree has recognized me. But I guess elves have become too gusty and rebellious to go against their god." Caelith''s expression hardened, but Flossbor placed a hand on his arm, calming the elder before he could retort. The air in the library felt thick with unspoken words as Kai stood his ground, silently daring to challenge him in any way. Caelith, in the end, sneered. "I am not against my god," he said through gritted teeth. "I just think you''re incompetent to deal with the cataclysm. Elder Valeirith kept an eye on you, and what have you done in the last few months? Youve done nothing but grow that city of yours. Thats not saving the world or the Elder Tree. Thats just improving your people." Kais expression remained unchanged as he met Caelith''s glare. "I wasnt aware of the prophecy before coming here. I knew there was one, but I had no idea about the details. As for growing my people," he continued, "do you really think we won''t need an army to deal with the fiends that will rise when the cycle moves forward? I don''t think just the elves and I will be enough to deal with it." Before Caelith could fire back, Flossbor stepped forward. "I agree with you, Arzan," he said, nodding in agreement. "I believe getting an army would be the best way to deal with Maleficia." His eyes flicked briefly to Caelith, who scowled but remained silent. Kai took a deep breath, sensing the tension in the air. He had questions that needed answers. "What exactly is Maleficia?" he asked. Caelith let out a derisive snort and laughed out loud mockingly. "You don''t even know that?" But before he could continue, a sharp glance from the Flossbor silenced him, and he relented, though his irritation was still palpable. "They are a force," he said, his voice laced with bitterness, "that worship the Dragon of CalamityMaleficand they wish for his rise. Theyre trying to bring forth the prophecy faster so they can be part of his world. In a way, they are the opposite of us elves, who have been trying to stop the prophecy from coming true." His eyes narrowed as he spoke of them. "A vile group of humans and other creatures. A cult that has forsaken their whole world just for whispers of power, believing that death is the true path to strength. They''re willing to destroy everything for it." Kai listened intently, his mind racing as he processed the information. "So... this cult, Maleficia... they want the prophecy to come true??" he asked, seeking clarification. "Yes," Flossbor confirmed. "And they are dangerous. They dont care for the balance of the world or the consequences of their actions. They care only for the power they believe they can gain by serving Malefic." Kai nodded thoughtfully. But there was something else he wanted to understand. He glanced at Caelith, whose expression was filled with contempt. "That''s why you don''t trust humans, then?" Caelith spoke with hatred in his eyes. "That, and the fact that humans often care little for nature," he said with a frown. "For growth and advancement, they forge wars, they kill, they destroy; the nature and themselves. Greed and arrogance have consumed so many of them. It''s hard to trust a people who will sacrifice everything, including the world itself, for fleeting power." Kais eyes darkened at their words, but he held his tongue. The elves had their reasons, and he could understand their distrust. They had seen the damage humans were capable oftheir hunger for power, their willingness to tear apart the natural world in pursuit of their goals. But Kai wasnt like them. He wasnt here for power; he was here to stop a disaster. "Well, I guess thats something well have to work through," Kai said, more to himself than the two standing before him. His eyes locked with Caeliths and slowly turned to Flossbor. You know what, I agree with your words, he said. You do? Yes. But I believe arrogance and greed are something all living creatures have. Even you. A true Mage knows how to keep them in check so they dont cloud his judgment. Flossbor nodded thoughtfully, a small smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. Wise words, Arzan, he said, his eyes drifting back to the book in front of him. After a moment, he spoke again. I see youve been looking into druidic magic, but have you found a way to save the life of the Elder Tree? I know elder Valeirith spoke to you about it, but in our centuries of living, weve not found any permanent solution to save it. Its condition keeps deteriorating. He paused, his voice becoming softer. A major reason I wanted you here, Arzan, is because I thought a fresh perspective might help us. Kai nodded in understanding. I did speak to Elder Valeirith about it, and Ive looked into books and records on the Elder Tree, he said, his eyes reflecting a hint of frustration. But it would need an immense amount of life force to keep it going. The major reason for its decline is that its been drained of that life force, and I havent" Suddenly, a chorus of shouts and laughter echoed from outside the library, cutting Kai off mid-sentence. His head snapped toward the window, and without hesitation, he crossed the room and swung it open. The sounds of joy and excitement filled the air as he peered out at the sight before him. Sylvastra was a sprawling, vibrant city built entirely within the enormous branches and trunks of towering trees. He thought hed seen the best yet, but the view from up here was something else. The houses looked much larger and spacious, crafted from wood that seemed to grow naturally into the shape of homes, their walls and roofs covered in moss and vines. Walkways of twisted vines and branches connected the homes, allowing the elves to travel from one house to the next with ease. In the middle of the city, childrens laughter rang out as they played with spirits. Elves of all ages moved about the city, decorating their homes with delicate flowers and hanging lanterns that swayed gently in the breeze. Others were gathered in small groups, sketching symbols on the ground and setting up what looked like summoning circles. The energy in the air was one of life and vitality, as if the city itself was alive with magic. Kais eyes scanned the scene, taking it all in before they settled on Gorak and the others. They were standing off to the side, looking around with wide eyes as they snacked on fruits. Gorak was clearly fascinated by the world of the elves, his eyes darting from one sight to the next. But what really caught Kais attention was Claire. She was laughing as she chased after a playful spirit, a small, glowing figure darting around her in the air. Her face was bright with a genuine smile, and she looked completely at ease as she interacted with the spirit. Kai watched as she held out her hand, letting the spirit playfully swirl around her fingers before it vanished with a puff of light, only to reappear a moment later. It was a simple moment, but it made Kai pause. The other elves around her were watching as well, some smiling at the children and the spirits, while others were looking at the humans they haven''t seen in years. But Kai''s eyes remained fixed on Claire, his gaze lingering a little longer than he intended. Flossbor, having noticed where Kai''s attention lay, moved closer to get a better look. His sharp eyes widened slightly as he observed Claire. I havent seen many humans with such an affinity for spirits, he murmured, more to himself than to Kai. She has potential. Is she a Mage? Kai turned to him, brow furrowed in curiosity. Shes not a Mage, he replied, shaking his head. Shes my personal maid. But what do you mean by potential? And why is everyone decorating so much? Before Flossbor could respond, Caeliths voice cut in, filled with the same sharpness that always seemed to accompany his words. Its not for you, he said, an air of dismissal in his tone. He sneered, probably at the thought of Kai thinking that they were planning something for him and his retinue. Its for the Rite of Binding. Its when the young ones get the chance to bond with spirits and officially become adults. You came here just in time for it. Flossbor nodded in agreement. Yes, Caelith is right, he said, a more contemplative tone replacing the previous tension in his voice. Its a sacred rite of adulthood for us elves. As for your maid, by potential, I mean she could become a spirit trainer. He paused for a moment, choosing his words carefully. To be one, a person needs a natural affinity with spirits. We elves are born with it, but its rare to see that kind of connection in humans. She... has it. Kais eyes widened as he thought about it. Claire? A spirit trainer? he asked, almost in disbelief, as his gaze shifted back to her. She was laughing and dancing with the spirit, her joy evident in the way she moved. She joined the children in their play, her face full of life, carefree in a way Kai hadnt seen before. And in that moment, it was as if a new possibility had opened up in his mind. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 161. Spirit Trainer Kai stood frozen, his eyes locked on Flossbor. They widened in disbelief. His gaze then shifted to Claire, who was giggling softly, her hands outstretched as she played with the wisps of glowing spirits dancing around her. She looked so carefree. The spirits flitted and twirled, drawn to her as if she were a magnet for their kind. The words that came from the two elf elders hit him like a bolt of lightning. Kai knew a little about them. They were common among the elves, but a rarity among humans. They didnt follow the structured spell formations or elemental focuses typical of Mages. Their power was solely based on their bonds with spirits and was an entirely different magic system overall. The strongest Spirit Trainers he could recall had always been elves, their deep connection to nature giving them an unparalleled affinity for such bonds. Among humans, there had only been few Spirit Trainers and only one among them had gotten famous enough for him to be in the history booksZephyronh, the man who had been around the second golden era of magic and had bonded with a Grade 6 wind spirit, earning the title of King of the Wind for his ability to command the air better than any Wind Mage. Kais mind reeled. Even if Claires potential affinity didnt reach such legendary heights, the very fact that she had an affinity at all meant she could become someone extraordinary. He thought back to their journey through the Vasper forest. The spirit of the forest itself had chosen her to communicate, and while hed dismissed it as a coincidence at the time, he now saw it in a new light. Kai thought to himself. Taking a deep breath, he turned back to Flossbor. So, can Claire take part in this rite? he asked, maintaining a calm exterior. He didnt want to sound desperate, knowing that itd get him nowhere. Flossbor hesitated, his brows knitting together in thought. Behind him, Caelith muttered, Thats against tradition. Humans dont I dont know, Flossbor interrupted. I cant make such a decision on my own. As Caelith intended, the ceremony is sacred. Allowing a human to participate might not be... proper. Kai sighed, disappointment flickering across his face. Thats a shame. He glanced back at Claire, who was now sitting cross-legged, her fingers tracing patterns in the air as the spirits mimicked her movements. He turned back to Flossbor, not wanting to give up the opportunity just yet. How do you conduct the rite, anyway? Its a summoning ritual, right? You call forth spirits from other realms to make contracts with them? Flossbor nodded and squinted his eyes. Yes. We call out to specific planes depending on the affinity of the elf taking part. Once the spirit appears, its up to the elf to negotiate and form the contract. And how do you determine which type of spirit to summon? Kai pressed. Flossbors expression turned contemplative as he answered Kais question. We have summoning circles and their corresponding rituals for spirits of each affinity. The choice of circle depends on what the elf wishes to contact. Often, the decision is based on the potential of the elf, but most opt for Grade 1 or 2 spirits as they are far easier to tame for young ones. Kai nodded thoughtfully. The rite seemed straightforward, but it also appeared to limit the elves ambitions by encouraging safer choices. He decided to press further, a plan forming in his mind. How about this? Ill share my knowledge of summoning circles for rarer spirits. I''m well versed in them. In exchange, you allow Claire to take part in the rite and grant her access to basic books on spirit training. The room fell silent. Caelith, who had been listening from behind Flossbor, stepped forward. He pointed his finger at Kai before he spoke. Fatebreaker or not. Youre a liar and presumptuous! he snapped. Summoning circles are our sacred knowledge, not something to be handed out to outsiders. How could someone like you possess such knowledge? Kai met his glare evenly, unflinching. I dont lie, he said firmly. If you doubt me, youre welcome to consult Elder Valeirith. She can confirm my claim. Ive acquired this knowledge from a different sourceone that has nothing to do with your people. And before you ask, yes, the summoning circles work, and they work well. Flossbor looked conflicted, his hands clasped behind his back as he glanced between Kai and Claire, who remained blissfully unaware of the discussion. Kai continued, his tone calm but persuasive. Think about what Im offering. With this knowledge, your young spirit trainers could grow far stronger than average. I know you will have your own summoning circles, but what I will provide will let them make contracts with rarer spirits. In return, I gain the chance to cultivate a spirit trainer for my troops. If our shared goal is to stop the Elder Tree from dying and to preserve the cycle, then strengthening ourselves is not just an optionits a necessity. He stepped closer, lowering his voice just enough to sound sincere. This deal benefits us both, Flossbor. Your people gain power, and I gain a fighter. Its a fair trade. Flossbors brows furrowed as he mulled over Kais words, his silence thick with tension. Caelith seemed ready to object again, but Flossbor threw a sharp look at him. Flossbor, were already granting him access to druidic magic. How strong can his so-called summoning circles even be? Are we really going to entertain this? Flossbor held up a hand to silence him. Thats Elder Valeiriths gift to the Fatebreaker. We have no authority to question or revoke it. As for his summoning circles, we wont know their strength until weve seen them ourselves. Turning to Kai, Flossbors expression softened slightly. If you dont mind, I would like to consult the council before giving you an answer. If the summoning circles you possess are as strong as you claim, then we would certainly consider your offer. Kai inclined his head respectfully. That would be more than enough. He then turned to Caelith, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. I hope my circles will satisfy even you, Elder Caelith. The elf huffed in response, crossing his arms and turning away, his silver eyes filled with scepticismhe didnt trust Kai one bit. A pang of irritation flared in Kais chest, but he forced it down. One elders opposition wouldnt change the generosity of Valeirith, who had already allowed him access to the elves druidic knowledge. By now, Kai had learned enough about diplomacy to know that relationships took time to mend and strengthen. He had no doubt that even Caelith, with his guarded demeanor, could become an ally in time. The elves didnt know him yet, just as he didnt fully understand their ways. But time could change everything. His thoughts drifted back to Claire, still engrossed in her playful interaction with the spirits. The idea of her becoming a spirit trainer was exhilarating, the potential immense. But Kai reminded himself that the decision wasnt his to make. It was Claires life, her path to choose. If she wanted to pursue this rare and powerful path, it would need to come from her own heart, not his ambition. He glanced at her, his mind already forming a plan. A talk was necessaryone where he would lay out everything he knew about spirit trainers, their potential, and the challenges they faced. Claire deserved all the information before making a decision. With a deep breath, he resolved to speak with her soon, to make sure she understood both the opportunity and the responsibility it carried. *** Kai didnt know if it was Valeiriths influence at play, but the councils decision came surprisingly fast. Permission was granted for Claire to take part in the rite, and while it wasnt entirely shocking to himgiven the extensive summoning knowledge hed offeredit was a relief. Summoning and rituals had consumed his final days in the Sorcerers Tower library, and now that expertise was proving invaluable. Despite the permission, Kai knew he had to talk to Claire. This wasnt a decision to be made lightly, and it was ultimately hers to make. As soon as the council delivered their verdict, he sought her out. He found her under the shade of a sprawling tree, where she was laughing and playing with the spirits that seemed drawn to her. For a moment, he watched her, wondering if she had any idea of the potential that lay within her. Taking a steadying breath, he approached. Claire. She turned to him, curiosity lighting her face. I need to talk to you about something important. She immediately stood up, and let the spirits go somewhere towards the trees that surrounded them. Then, Kai started talking. She, in return, listened intently as he explained everythingthe rarity of spirit trainers, their power, and her natural affinity for spirits. It took him some time to explain everything to her. Her eyes widened as the realization hit her slowly, her expression shifting from disbelief to awe. Are you sure you arent jesting, Lord Arzan? she asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Im as serious as I can be, Kai replied, meeting her gaze. The elves have confirmed it. You have the talent to become a spirit trainerto contract spirits as the elves do, and to use them for various purposes, even combat. Its an entirely different system of magic, separate from what Mages use, but its just as powerful. If you decide to take part in the rite, you could gain the ability to wield the elements of the world. Claire stared at him, her mind visibly racing to process his words. Kai continued, his tone steady but encouraging. But This is your decision. Think about it carefully. If this is the path you want to take, let me know. Claire went silent at Kais words, her gaze drifting over the scene before her. Kai followed her gaze. The elves bustled about the forest clearing, their treehouses blending seamlessly into the towering woods. Spirits flitted in and out of sight, their ethereal forms weaving through the air like glimmers of light. Claire closed her eyes, taking a deep breath as if to steady herself. When she opened them again, there was a certainty in them. She looked up at Kai. I want to be a spirit trainer. Kai studied her for a moment. Are you sure? he asked. You can take your time and let me know. We have time until the rite begins. So think carefully. Claire nodded without hesitation. Yes, Lord Arzan. Im sure. Ive been searching for somethingsome way to contribute more to Veralt, to you, and to feel like Im more than just a simple maid. I believe the goddess has heard my wishes. Kais eyes softened. You arent a simple maid, Claire. You know that. Yes, but theres only so much I can do as a mortal, she replied, her voice unwavering. If I can wield powers like you do, I could do so much more. Kai nodded thoughtfully, impressed by her thick determination. Before he could respond, a rustling behind them caught his attention. The elders of the council approached, their footsteps quiet but purposeful, followed by the figure of Elder Valeirith. Wise choice, she said. Spirits never betray you unless you betray them first. They are the best of companions, and their loyalty will bring you strength and solace. Behind the ancient elf, Caelith muttered something under his breath, his expression sour. Kai chose to ignore it, instead shifting his focus to the gathering in the clearing. The scene was alive with activity. Though the night had blanketed the forest in darkness, the area was illuminated by the glowing lights strung from treehouses and floating motes of spirit energy. And all the lanterns just added to the scene. His gaze settled on the center of the clearing. There, basic summoning circles had been etched into the ground, their intricate runes glowing faintly with latent energy. Nearby, stacks of food and drink had been laid out, waiting to be enjoyed after the ceremony. It all seemed exciting, and even the air buzzed with anticipation. He saw how elves of all ages filled the clearing, theyd puddled into groups and started talking in hushed tones. It somehow mingled with the sounds of the forest. Kai stepped closer to Flossbor, taking in the preparations before speaking. Are the preparations complete? Flossbor turned to him and nodded. Yes, everything is ready. Were just about to begin. Kai gave a small nod, his sharp eyes scanning the crowd. He noticed a group of young elves standing together, their faces a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The elders began moving towards them and the gathering quieted as Flossbor took center stage. The elf elder raised a hand, signaling for silence. When the murmurs ceased, he began speaking, his voice carrying easily over the assembled crowd. Raven quickly came to Kais side to translate whatever was being said. Iladari, ilasth, silwen borial, thrilen enkaril Rithaeth Ilvarismianath rathail thara hestil liradil. Tirerel maerthalin, thrilen thalith thos anlatra, melnara thilith allanis. Athalir enlin, wathinoreth daelith thilska, sythaltil alael viris. Brothers, sisters, tonight marks the Rite of Bindinga sacred tradition that heralds the journey into adulthood. For generations, this rite has not only been a passage but a promise. Through it, you will call upon the spirits and forge a bond that is both an honor and a responsibility, she whispered to Kais ears. His gaze softened as it rested on the young elves standing in eager anticipation. Thar elveloth is thilmareth, alael thaliri hothril varas and althalin maethivalth. Almarin wathalira, thalirnal na rethin, ainthalir atmaerel virinith. Viel thoshelir thyneshin, hithirith virinthar athalilael, vimorath athalraem as rethinor. This moment is a turning point, one that will define your path and your connection to the spirits that have watched over our kind since the dawn of time. To bond with a spirit is not a mere act; it is to invite it into your essence, to share your strengths and shoulder your burdens. Flossbor raised a hand, gesturing to the summoning circles etched into the forest floor, his voice changing to the common human tongue. Let your affinity guide you. Step forward and call out to the realm that resonates with your soul. Tonight, you take the first step not just toward adulthood, but toward understanding the true harmony of life and the elements. I would like all of you to talk in common language, so that the Fatebreaker here could help you with the summoning circle. The young elves exchanged glances, their nerves fading into determination as they nodded. The elders from behind gave hopeful eyes at Kai, probably trusting the council members on this decision. As the elder finished his speech, a hush fell over the clearing. One of the young elves, a male with bright green eyes, stepped forward. His voice was steady as he declared, "My a-affinity is with w-wind, the boy stuttered but managed to speak in common language. He moved toward one of the summoning circles, and the crowd watched in silence. The young elf stepped confidently into the summoning circle. "I would like to contract with a Grade 2 wind spirit," he announced, speaking slowly. S~ea??h the n?vel_Fire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The elders exchanged glances, one of them, Lillian, stepping forward. Are you certain? Grade 2 spirits, while stronger, are harder to tame and require more discipline. The elf nodded firmly. Yes, Im sure. Their gazes shifted to Kai, who stood a short distance away, observing the proceedings. As the elders silently sought his input, Kais eyes dropped to the summoning circle etched into the ground. His expression remained calm, but his mind churned with thoughts. Taking a step closer, Kai addressed the elf. Are you looking for anything specific in a spirit? Speed, strength, or something else? The elf shook his head and took a moment to reply. No, I trust in whatever spirit will answer my call. Kai crouched down by the circle, his fingers brushing against the etched lines. Understood. He reached into his pouch and retrieved a small vial of fine, white powder. Pouring some into his palm, he began to alter the circle with practiced precision. Lines intersected with curves, and additional runes bloomed in the space around the original diagram. Kai mused, his focus unwavering. The elves watched in silence, their curiosity palpable as Kai worked, few of them looking unsure of his capability. Even Caelith, standing to the side, leaned forward ever so slightly. When he finished, the summoning circle glowed faintly with an energy that felt sharper and more refined. Kai stepped back, brushing the residual powder from his hands. Its ready. His voice was calm, yet it carried a quiet authority that silenced the murmurs around him. Taking a deep breath, Kai raised his arms and began to chant, his words resonating in the still night air. The altered summoning circle thrummed with power, its glow intensifying with every syllable he spoke. The runes sparked, their brilliance lighting the faces of the gathered elves. A sudden gust of wind whipped through the clearing, and the energy in the circle coalesced into a vortex. From its center, a form began to emergea bird-shaped wind spirit. Its body shimmered like silver mist, its wings feathered with strands of pure, flowing air that glimmered faintly in the moonlight. Its eyes were crystalline, reflecting the surrounding light in an iridescent display. Gasps erupted from the crowd, and a voice rang out in disbelief. Isnt that the rare Lyrepyron? No one has contracted with it in hundreds of years! The clearing fell into stunned silence as the spirit spread its wings. And at that moment, all eyes turned to Kai. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription for both of them is on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 162. Storm Sovereign The Lyrepyron hovered in the air, the bird looked like it was made of mist and light. Its feathers sparkled, and the air around it seemed to ripple as if alive. The clearing was silent for a moment before gasps broke out among the elves. Thats a rare spirit! Its a miracle! Words were whispered in hushed tones around them. Even Caelith, who had been so against Kai, stood frozen. He would normally throw a crude expression at Kais way, but this time, his wide eyes showed shock and even a bit of respect. But Kai didnt focus on their reactions for long. The ritual wasnt done yet. He turned to the young elf standing nearby and nudged him. You need to form a contract now, he said. The elf blinked, snapping out of his daze, and slowly stepped toward the hovering wind spirit. His hand stretched out, trembling slightly as he focused. Kai could tell the elf was trying to communicate with the spirit through his thoughts. He knew that was how its done usually, Flossbor had explained it to him before. The Lyrepyron tilted its head, watching him closely. It seemed to study him, ignoring the rest of the elves. Finally, after a tense moment, the spirit leaned forward and touched the elfs fingers. A wave of mana rippled through the clearing as a faint mark appeared around the elfs handa spirit sigil. It looked like a bracelet almost, but it sealed their contract. The elf stepped back, his face breaking into a wide smile as he held up his hand. Flossbor stepped forward, his voice warm and proud. With this, the first binding of the night is complete! Lets give a round of applause for our young one, Caladhron. The announcement was the confirmation that everyone needed. The clearing erupted into cheers and applause. Flossbor turned to Kai. Would you be willing to call such rare spirits for the others as well? Kai nodded without hesitation. I said I would, and Ill see it through. Flossbor smiled and gestured for the next elf to step forward. A young girl approached, her hands clenched nervously. Kai looked at her and asked gently, What kind of spirit are you hoping to summon? She hesitated and looked around. Kais eyes traced and saw an extremely tall woman giving a warming smile and a nod at the little girl. The little girl in return gave a toothy grin and looked up at Kai. So? Kai nudged her a little. Can you summon Terrak, the grade 2 earth spirit? He nodded, his mind quickly recalling the summoning circle for Terrak. He crouched down and began drawing convoluted patterns on the ground, carefully shaping the circle to call forth a Terrak. Once it was ready, he stepped back and began chanting. The circle lit up with a deep green glow, and a huge spirit appeareda turtle with a rough, rocky shell. The cracks in its shell glowed like lines of molten lava, giving it a powerful and ancient look. Its bright amber eyes studied the girl closely, as if testing her. Kai glanced at the girl, who took a deep breath and stepped forward, her hand slowly reaching out toward the turtle. But the spirit didnt react right away. It stayed still, its gaze sharp and piercing. He recalled that unlike Lyrepyron, Terraks had an aggressive and demanding nature, favouring battles. The girl stood firm, her hand steady even as the spirit seemed to weigh her resolve. Kai could see the tension in her posture but also the determination in her eyes. She wasnt going to back down. Finally, after what felt like forever, the turtle leaned forward. Its massive head moved closer, and its rough, glowing shell seemed to shimmer even brighter. When it touched her hand, a powerful wave of mana rippled through the clearing, sending a warm energy that everyone could feel. A glowing sigil formed around her wrist. The turtle circled the girl, its movements slow but deliberate, watching her like it was making sure of something. Then, without a sound, the spirit disappeared into thin air, leaving only the glowing mark on her wrist. The sigil pulsed softly for a moment before fading, but Kai knew the bond was complete. The spirit was now part of her, ready to be summoned whenever she needed it. The girls face broke into a bright smile, her joy clear as she stepped back from the circle. Her bond with the spirit was sealed, and the pride in her eyes was impossible to miss. The crowd cheered again, and Kai couldnt help but smile. Two bindings downmany more to go. As the night deepened and the glowing summoning circles illuminated the forest clearing, the air grew heavier with respect and curiosity. One by one, as Kai crafted perfect summoning circles and called forth rare spirits, the eyes of the elves began to change. At first, they regarded him as an unfamiliar human outsider, but now their gazes held something elserespect, intrigue, and even awe. Whispers of a new title drifted through the gathering: Spirit Seer. He heard more than a few people calling him that after each successful binding. Kai had no idea what that meant, but he didnt stop. His focus remained on the circles and the spirits, pouring his energy into each chant. The young elves approached him with requests for specific types of spirits. Wind and earth spirits were the most common, and he summoned them with relative ease. Mithyxs, Gale Whisker; Aerendyl, the Dancing Lythyp, Terrak, Stoneback Titan; Lythron, the Rooth Watcher. Occasionally, the demands were more unusuala request for lightning or water spirits, such as Stormflash, the Azure Bolt and Mirenelle. Each summon brought its own challenges. Not all spirits were willing to form bonds with their summoners, and Kai often found himself chanting again to call another spirit. Some elves left the summoning circles with disappointment clearly written on their faces, but even then, the persistence of Kai and their fellow rite takers ensured that none of these kids were left empty-handed. Halfway through the summonings, the last of the hostile gazes have changed. Even Caelith who hadn''t had a single positive thing to say about him ever since Kai set foot in Sylvastra seemed to soften. Though his lips remained sealed and tight, the hostility in his gaze had dulled to neutrality. It wasnt much, but it was a step forward. By the time Kai had worked through most of the gathered elves, the clearing felt alive with energy, buzzing with new bonds and strengthened connections. The once-nervous young elves now stood taller, their spirit sigils glowing faintly as they talked to their family. Finally, Flossbor called for the last participant, and Kai turned to see Claire stepping forward. She had been watching from the sidelines all evening, observing and familiarizing herself with the process. Now, as she walked toward the centre, murmurs rippled through the gathered elves. A human? This rite has always been for elves. Can a human even bond with a spirit? Claires expression tightened as she heard the whispers, but her steps remained steady. She reached the summoning circle and stood tall, locking eyes with Kai. Flossbor raised a hand, hushing everyone in the process. Tonights Rite of Binding is unlike any other. Thanks to the Fatebreaker, we have witnessed spirits rarely seen by our kind. Now, we shall witness the birth of something equally uniquea human Spirit Trainer. Let this moment mark the beginning of a new path, not just for Claire, but for all of us. The murmurs quieted, though some sceptical glances lingered. Claire glanced back at Kai, who gave her a small nod. Are you ready? he asked, his tone softer than before. She nodded. Yes, Lord Arzan. Im ready. A few elves erupted in cheers as Claire inhaled deeply. Kai studied her for a moment before speaking. "Unlike the elves, Claire, I cant rely on a single affinity to guide the summoning. Since we dont know which element resonates with you, Ill need to create a universal calling circle. This circle will connect to multiple planes, and any spirit that hears and answers your call will come forward. Youll have the chance to form a contract with it." She nodded firmly. Im ready, Lord Arzan. Kai crouched, his fingers brushing the ground as he began inscribing the circle. He used a fine white powder and carefully started drawing patterns and lines into the earth. The circle expanded outward, its design layered with overlapping symbols for wind, lightning, earth, water, fire, and more. At the centre, he added a convergence sigil, ensuring the summoning could draw from any plane. As he worked, he explained softly, "Each line here represents a connection to a different plane. The intersections guide the spirit, while the sigil at the center acts as a beacon. When its complete, the circle will call out to every elemental plane simultaneously. The spirit that resonates with your soul will answer." Finally, Kai stepped back, brushing the dust off his hands. He turned to Claire and pulled a small knife from his belt. When I tell you, drop a single drop of blood into the center. Your essence will serve as the catalyst, anchoring the spirit to you if it chooses to bond." Claire hesitated briefly, her fingers tightening around the knife as Kai began the chant. His voice was steady and rhythmic, the ancient words flowing like a river through the clearing. The circle responded, faint lines beginning to glow as the summoning took hold. Now, Kai said and looked at Claire. She pricked her thumb, letting a drop of blood fall onto the centre of the circle. The glow intensified, the lines simmering as though absorbing her essence. For a moment, nothing happened. The clearing was silent except for the hum of the circles energy. Claire glanced at Kai. Her eyebrows knitted together as she hesitantly asked, Did it fail? Kai shook his head, his gaze fixed on the circle. It takes time. A being has to hear the call and decide to answer. As if on cue, the circle pulsed with power, a low hum growing into a resonating thrum that seemed to shake the air itself. The gathered elves gasped, and Kais initial smile faltered as the energy surged far beyond what he had anticipated. This... isnt normal, he murmured under his breath. The elders noticed too. Their warnings were drowned out by the rising storm of lightning and wind that began to swirl above the circle. Claire instinctively stepped back as the storm condensed, spiralling downward with a quiet intensity. From the eye of the storm emerged a figure. Kai squinted his eyes to take a better lookas the mist from the summoning circle still covered their vision. Finally, he could clearly see the figurea majestic deer. The stormy clouds wreathed around its body and rolled with every movement as it shook its body. Its horns were long and sharp with wind gathered around them like two small tornados. Across its stormy pelt, lightning danced and it''s piercing eyes glimmered with intelligence. Claire stared in wonder, her breath catching in her throat. The spirit gazed down at her, its eyes studying her intently as though measuring her worth. Kai heard Elder Valeirith whisper in awe, Thats a Grade 3 spirit... and not just any spirit, but a Storm Sovereign. Intelligent, powerful, and willful. As if to prove its dominance, the spirits piercing gaze locked onto Claire, its storm-filled eyes glowing with an almost tangible intensity. A deep, gravelly voice filled the clearing, seeming to echo from the storm itself. Who dares call upon us? the spirit demanded, its tone dripping with haughtiness. Foolish mortals, do you not understand the weight of your actions? To summon one such as Iunworthy as you areyou invite wrath upon yourself! The air grew heavier with each word, crackling with electric tension. Without warning, a bolt of lightning arced from the spirit, striking the ground mere inches from where Claire stood. *** Tharnoks hammer came down once more, igniting sparks in its wake. The strike reverberated like a heartbeat within the stone wall. Just like the one before had, and the one before. The glow of the molten steel before him made his eyebrows sweat. But he continued. He swung his hammer again, his broad arms moving in practiced arcs, the rhythm almost hypnotic. He narrowed his eyes, focusing intently on the glowing blade taking shape beneath his hands. His lips moved silently, muttering age-old chants that infused the very air with a palpable hum of magic. He turned the blade slightly, inspecting the intricate etchings along its surface, ensuring that each strike of the hammer and stroke of the chisel served its purpose. The forge, nestled deep within the earth, pulsed with the power of the molten veins running beneath it, an ancient lifeblood fueling the fires. Tharnok''s tools gleamed in the fiery glowhammers, chisels, and tongs of unmatched craftsmanship. He struck the blade again, sparks flying like tiny stars across the cave. Closer, he murmured to himself, his voice raspy from the heavy work. Closer to perfection He paused, holding the blade aloft. The glow of the steel dimmed slightly as he turned it, his experienced eyes scrutinizing every detail. He reached for a small vial on his workbench, the contents swirling with a silvery, glitter. Carefully, he poured a single drop onto the blade. The liquid sizzled on contact, sinking into the metal as if devoured by a hungry spirit. The entire blade seemed to pulse in response, its glow intensifying. The dwarf allowed himself a rare smile, his teeth flashing through his bushy beard. Youll be my masterpiece, he whispered to the blade, as if the blade could hear it. A sudden gust of wind swept through the cave, carrying the light but fast footsteps. Tharnok froze, his sharp ears catching the sound. He straightened, gripping the hilt of the blade firmly. He scowled, his voice low and steady. Who dare disturb my forge? He kept the weapon away as an irritated voice echoed through the cave. "Oi, hammer-brain! Quit smashing rocks for a second!" The dwarf spun around, his scowl deepening as he spotted his wife standing at the entrance, her hands on her hips and the usual unimpressed look on her face. What do ya want, woman? he grunted, gripping his hammer like it was a shield against her presence. Ill smash your head with Hammy if you keep distractin me! Sarch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. She rolled her eyes. Stop givin your hammer stupid names, you stinky bastard. Youve got a letter. Read it. Then, I dunno, maybe go dunk your head in the forge flames for good measure. She jabbed a thumb toward the workbench, where a sealed envelope lay conspicuously next to a steaming pie. Also, I made ya food. Eat it, or Ill smash your head in your sleep. Your choice. With that, she spun on her heel and strode out, muttering something about Tharnok and his lack of appreciation for good cooking. Tharnok grumbled under his breath, setting his hammer down with a thunk. Always naggin. Doesnt know genius when she sees it, he muttered, stomping over to the workbench. He snatched up the pie first, taking a hefty bite. His scowl softened briefly at the taste before he grabbed the letter and tore it open with stubby fingers. As he read, his chewing slowed. His eyes widened slightly, scanning the page again to make sure he wasnt imagining things. That damn brute Balen finally remembered me, did he? he muttered. Whats this? Took a job in a county? Bah! He really became a humans slave. A bulls a bull, no matter how ya dress em up. His amusement quickly faded as his gaze landed on the diagrams sketched on the parchment. Detailed, complete, and unlike anything hed seen in years. He stopped mid-bite, the pie forgotten on the workbench. His hands shook slightly as he read through the letter again, carefully tracing the diagrams with a thick finger. Tharnoks gaze flicked to the blade resting on his anvil, then back to the letter. His expression hardened, a rare gleam of excitement sparking in his eyes. He stormed into the adjacent room, where his wife was cleaning up. She looked up, arching an eyebrow. Why havent you finished the pie yet? Its not gonna eat itself. Shut yer trap, woman, Tharnok snapped, holding up the letter. Pack my bag. Her brow furrowed. Pack your bag? For what? Wherere ya off to now? Tharnok glanced at the letter again, then met her gaze with a grin that was equal parts determination and madness. A place called Veralt. Somethin interestin just came up. His wife snorted, shaking her head. Fine. But if youre leavin, at least take the rest of the pie with ya. Might as well die with a full stomach if ya get self killed. Tharnok just chuckled, already moving to gather his tools. Dont worry, woman. If Im right, I wont be the one dyin. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 163. Binding The Storm Sovereign unleashed a lightning bolt that tore through the clearing, lighting everything up in a mili-second. Everyone including Kai was blinded for some time. But soon, their shock recovered when the ground shook as a shockwave rippled outward, sending elves scrambling for cover. Some cried out in alarm, while others quickly called upon their spirits in a desperate bid to defend themselves. Kai didnt hesitate. He threw up his hands, channelling his mana into a massive wall of ice. He needed distance from the Storm Sovereign to do anything at all. The barrier rose swiftly, glittering in the storms eerie light. The lightning struck it with a deafening crash, shattering the wall into sharp fragments that rained down like shards of glass. The impact forced Kai back a few steps, his boots dragging against the dirt as he steadied himself. "Get behind me!" he shouted, pushing his mana outward to form another shield. But before he could finish, energy flared around him as the elves began to act. Elders called forth their spirits, summoning power to counter the rampaging deer. From Caeliths palm emerged a giant hawk-like wind spirit. Its feathers were completely silver, similar to the elders hair. Beside him, Flossbor summoned a massive earth spirit, similar to a buffalo, its rocky form shaking the ground with each step. Another elder from behind, who Kai didnt know the name of, brought forth a storm spirit, a spirit that looked similar to a falcon, its crackling body mirroring the deers lightning. Hold it back! Elder Valeirith commanded. The spirits surged forward, their power clashing against the deer spirit. But the creature was relentless. It roared, the sound echoing like thunder, and stomped its hooves. Cracks split the ground, snaking toward the elves. Lightning leapt from its antlers, striking the advancing spirits with deadly precision. Kai spun around and saw Claire frozen in fear, her hands trembling. With a sharp motion, he raised another wall of ice between her and the battle. "Stay down!" he barked. She nodded, pale. She was visibly shivering as she looked at the horror with wide eyes. Turning back to the fight, Kai hurled a volley of fire spells at the deer. Explosions rocked the clearing as fireballs hit their mark, shattering the creatures mana. But it quickly reformed, shaking off the attacks like they were nothing. The Storm Sovereigns laughter came mocking. Lightning crackled around its body, lashing out randomly and scorching the ground. Its feeding on the mana in the air! Kai muttered, realization dawning. The creature wasnt just powerfulit was pulling energy from the dense mana in the air, making it almost impossible to weaken. But Kai wasnt ready to give up. Not yet. The elder spirits fought eye-to-eye, all of them focused on a different aspect of the Storm Sovereigns attacks. The wind hawk darted through the air, intercepting the lightning bolts, while the buffalo charged forward, its massive horns slamming into the deers legs to disrupt its balance. The falcon mirrored the deers own nature, unleashing bursts of lightning that clashed with its opponents attacks. But the deer wasnt done. It roared again, and clouds spilt from its body, climbing into the sky. The atmosphere darkened as the clouds thickened, swirling into a massive storm. "Protect yourselves!" Elder Valeirith yelled as the first lances of lightning rained down, accompanied by a torrential downpour. Kai gritted his teeth, reinforcing the ice barrier around Claire as lightning struck dangerously close. She crouched down, clutching her knees as the chaos intensified. Lord Arzan! she called out, her voice shaking. Im so sorry! Its all my fault. I didnt mean Its not your fault, he said firmly, his eyes locked on hers. According to the rules of summoning, it wouldnt have answered your call if it wasnt interested in making a bond with you. This spirit has anger issues, thats all. We need to beat it into submission, and it will respect you. Claire swallowed hard, her trembling hands clutching her knees. But how can I You can, Kai interrupted. When I create an opening, you move in and try to form a bond. Ill make sure youre safe, no matter what. She hesitated, the fear still clear in her eyes, but soon, she nodded. Ill try. Kai inhaled deeply and gave her a quick nod before standing and stepping out from behind the ice wall. His voice rang out above the storm, commanding and unyielding. Im going to create a spell to bind it. Distract its attention until Im ready! Caelith sneered. You reckless human! Because of you, were facing the wrath of a rare grade three spirit! Despite his words, he raised his hand, directing his giant hawk spirit to shield the others from the relentless lightning strikes and torrential rain. Flossbor and the other elder with the falcon exchanged a glance before unleashing their offensive attacks. Flossbors spirit charged at the deer, its horns still focusing on the spirits legs. The falcon coiled through the air, sending extremely sharp gusts slicing toward the deers glowing form. Elder Valeirith stood further back, her fingers drawing patterns in the air as her star spirit hovered above her, its shimmering, celestial form casting a faint glow. Every time it touched the spirits, any damage they had taken healed. Even Gareth and his mercenaries joined the fight. Lightning danced around them as they closed in, their weapons gleaming with the seals Kai ebbed as they struck at the spirit. But no matter how many blows landed, the deers form regenerated almost instantly, its haughty laughter echoing through the clearing. Kai clenched his fists, his mind racing as he observed the battle. The elders and mercenaries were giving it their all, but the spirits ability to draw mana from the environment made it nearly invincible. But it wasn''t as if he knew no spells to control it. A plan began to take shape in his mind, and he retreated to the back, his hands glowing as he began drawing a fourth-circle fire spell. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he chanted, the air around him growing hotter with each passing moment. Flames flickered to life, spiraling into the spell structure he was creating. The mana in the area seemed to shift, drawn toward his spell like a moth to a flame. Hold it off just a little longer! Kai shouted in a strained voice. The elders redoubled their efforts, their spirits clashing with the deer, keeping it off from attacking innocent elves who were still around but far, far away. Claire peeked over the ice wall and watched the chaotic scene. The storm sovereign let out another furious wheeze, clouds gathering thicker above it as lightning arced in all directions. Kai gritted his teeth, the spell structure beneath him glowing with fiery intensity. , he thought, his gaze flicking toward Claire. Be ready, he murmured. Its now or never. The storm intensified, the deer spirit growing more agitated as Kais chanting filled the air. Its roars shook the ground, lightning flashing wildly in response to its anger. The elders struggled to keep it contained, their spirits pushing themselves to the brink. Elder Valeiriths voice rang out above the chaos. Arzan! Hurry, or it might retreat to its plane! Im almost there! Kai shouted back, sweat dripping down his brow as he poured the last of his focus into the spell. The spell structure flared to life, glowing with an intense white heat. With a final chant, he released the magic, chains of white flames erupting from his palms and streaking toward the deer. The fiery chains wrapped around the deers legs, torso, and antlers, locking it in place. It struggled and thrashed, but the chains tightened, forcing it to halt its rampage. Lightning flickered around its body, but the chains absorbed the strikes, glowing even brighter in defiance. Claire, go now! Kai shouted. Through the driving rain, Claire hesitated for a moment, her eyes wide as she stared at the bound creature. Its glowing eyes turned to her, filled with disdain and challenge. You arent strong enough to bind me, human, it said with a wheeze. Claire faltered but quickly steeled herself, her steps slow but deliberate as she moved toward it. Maybe not right now. But I have the conviction to become stronger. I need to be a Spirit Trainer worthy of your power. The Storm Sovereign snorted, its form shimmering as it shook against the chains in an attempt to intimidate her. Conviction? it mocked and laughed. Conviction alone wont take you far. Power is coveted, fragile. It attracts danger. You will die. Claire stopped in front of it, rain dripping from her hair as she raised her gaze to meet its eyes. If I die, so be it. Im prepared for that. Nothing will stop me. For a moment, the world seemed to hold its breath as the two locked eyes, a silent battle of wills. The deer studied her intently, its glowing gaze piercing, as though it could see into the depths of her soul. It tilted its head to sides, while keeping their eyes locked, slowly, another laugh echoed through the clearing. If your conviction is truly that strong, it said, then so be it. I will bind with you. Claires lips curved into a small, hopeful smile, but the spirit wasnt finished. But only for one year, it added.This is your trial. If I find you unworthy, I will break free of the contract. Show me your conviction, girl. Prove to me you can hold power without faltering. Claire turned to Kai, her eyes seeking reassurance. He gave her a firm nod. You can do this, he said. She faced the spirit again and nodded. Im prepared. The deer spirit let out a low rumble of approval. Slowly, the white chains binding it began to dissolve, the spell releasing its hold. The creatures form shifted, its mana swirling as it began to shrink. It lowered its head toward Claire, glowing sigils appearing around her wrist as the contract began to take shape. The next few moments stretched and visibly their bond grew. Finally, the storm began to clear, the skies grew calmer. The deer spirits voice echoed one last time. Prove yourself, Claire. She nodded and placed her hand on her heart, breathing heavily. After all, the whole process wasnt easy. Her adrenaline mustve spiked. When the sigils faded, the deer spirit disappeared, its presence now residing within her. Before she could say anything, Kai stepped forward. Congratulations, he said. You are now a Grade 3 Spirit Trainer. He couldnt help the pride that swelled his heart. Claire did it. It had taken a lot from her, but she had done it. Claire blinked. Grade 3? Kai nodded, folding his arms. Spirit Trainers are as strong as the level of the spirit theyre bound to. It doesnt work like a Mages progression. Just by forming a bond with a Grade 3 spirit, youve gained immense strength. Even if its temporary. I believe youll prove your worth. Her eyes filled with gratitude as she turned to him and bowed deeply. Thank you, Lord Arzan. I know all of this happened because of you. Im eternally grateful. Kai simply nodded, his gaze shifting to Elder Valeirith, who stepped forward. Her voice carried across the clearing, strong and clear. Everyone, this years Rite of Binding has been an overwhelming success! Not only have our young ones forged bonds with rare spirits, thanks to Fatebreakers aid, but for the first time in centuries, we have a human Spirit Trainer among us! She gestured toward Claire with a proud smile. And one who has bonded with a Grade 3 spirit, no less! This is a momentous occasion, one that deserves to be celebrated. Let us thank the Elder Tree for its blessings and rejoice tonight! The clearing erupted into cheers, the elves raising their voices in celebration. Spirits danced in the air, their glowing forms adding to the festivity as laughter and joy spread like wildfire. Claire looked around, her cheeks flushed as the weight of her achievement settled in. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to see Kai giving her a small nod. Enjoy the celebration, he said simply before stepping back into the crowd, leaving her to soak in the moment. The night turned lively with music, dancing, and feasting. And for just a little while, Kai felt like he could take a step back from thinking about how to save the world. *** After the celebrations of the Rite of Binding, Kai put Claire in the hands of Flossbor who agreed to teach her the basics of being a Spirit Trainer and turned his attention to a far graver matterHow to save the Elder Tree. It was an ancient anchor of life and magic that connected everything. It wasnt just the forests heart but the wellspring of ambient mana that made spells and cultivation thrive. Without the tree, the mana would stagnate, and dead mana zones would spread like a blight. The implications of its death stretched far beyond the forest, threatening the balance. The elves had poured centuries of wisdom and effort into saving the tree, but their theories and attempts had all failed. If they had found even the smallest success, they would have already acted. The weight of this realization gnawed at Kai as he buried himself in their ancient tomes, searching for somethinganythingthey might have overlooked. S~ea??h the N?vel?ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Days blurred together in a haze of reading and frustration. The ancient script of elven texts, once so captivating, now felt like an endless maze with no way out. Kais mind raced as he cross-referenced theories, his fingers tracing over faded diagrams of mana flows and roots. But nothing worked. Each path he explored led to a dead end, another failure to add to the pile of failed attempts by those who came before him. His frustration grew into desperation. The future he had glimpses of offered some reassurance. In the history he knew of, the Elder Tree hadn''t died so early. But by now, he knew that his knowledge about historical events was fragmented and unreliable. Could he trust them? Could he afford to? And then, when he had been about to give up, a thought sparked. A small, fragile idea nestled in the back of his mind. It wasnt anything the elves had documented, nor was it part of the knowledge they shared. No, it was something that came from his memories, his understanding of arcane knowledge. It felt audacious, borderline impossible. But it was also their only hope. He poured all his time, trying to work on the idea until finally he felt like he had a definite way to do what the elves have failed to do in his previous life. Two days later, Kai stood before the council of elders. Their faces bore the lines of age and worry, their anticipation tangible. He took a steadying breath before speaking. Ive thought of a way to save the Elder Tree, he began. It isnt a guarantee, and I cant promise success. But its the only chance we have left. What is it? Well, actually, there''s not one way. I have found two ways through which we can try to save the Elder Tree, he said and prepared himself for the barrage of questions that was about to come. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 164. Trees and planes The Elder Tree was an extremely special being. In a way, it was a cornerstone of existence. To call it a god wasnt entirely accurate, but it wasnt entirely wrong eitherand Kai couldnt think of a better word. Unlike the divine beings that were being worshipped across the human kingdoms, it neither had a church or demanded faith. Yet its presence was no less vital. Simply by existing, it exhaled mana, saturating the world with the lifeblood of magic. Without the Elder Tree, the world would slowly suffocate, magic would dwindle until it was nothing more than some distant legend and it was a scary, scary nightmare. So when Kai started to think about saving such a beinghe realised one thing; this was one of the hardest tasks hed ever taken upon. But if theres another thing he knew about himself, it was that he didnt give up when he put his mind into anything. Not even if it could cost his life. He got into the process of thinking. He thought, and thought, until something clicked. Kai realised that he had been thinking of it wrongly from the start. He''d been trying to find a way to revive this divine being to the point that he had overlooked the fact that even if the Elder Tree was special and one of its kind, it was still a tree. And even if he didnt know ways to revive a tree, he knew ways to create a new one. But it came with its own complications. Still, Kai knew it was the only way forward. With confidence, he stood in front of the Council of Five Tribes and looked at how their expressions shifted from excitement for his words to scepticism within seconds. Flossbor, whod been extremely optimistic about his arrival, looked at him and narrowed his eyes. Was he angry? Kai couldnt tell. Next to Flossbor, Elder Valeirith shifted in her seat. Caelith openly sneered, his displeasure practically radiated off of him. You claim to have multiple ways to save the Elder Tree. Caelith leaned forward with his sneer deepening. Do you think we are fools, Arzan? We have devoted centuries to this task, only for you to claim youve solved it in a matter of days? And not only one way, but two?! Kais jaw tightened. He forced himself to exhale and turned his attention to Elder Valeirith instead. Although she showed signs of confusion, Kai knew that she was aware of his intentions. Her calm presence, in fact, consoled a part of him. She raised her hand to silence Caelith. Enough, Caelith. Let him speak. If nothing else, let us hear what Arzan has to offer. she tore her gaze from the angry man and looked at Kai, her eyes softening in the process. What do you mean? Kai inhaled again. We all have thought about ways to revive the Elder Tree, reverse its ageing and heal it so that the cycle could prolong. That approach, no matter how noble, only delays the inevitable. It would still be there. The cycle would continue, and the calamity would strike again. Maybe not in the next hundred years but in the next thousand years. The room fell silent. Even Caeliths sneer faltered, replaced by a furrowed brow. The weight of Kais words hung in the air as he pressed on. Kai wasnt speaking like this for no reason. If at least the history of the elven population he knew was true, then the Elder Tree would have died at the end of the first golden era of magic. There still was a long time for that, so, it meant that the elves somehow were able to prolong and extend the Trees life. But, still, in the end, the world fell. The tree died, giving way to dead mana to pollute the last bit of pure mana. That was obviously the history he knew was correct. At this point, he wasnt so sure. What are you telling, young man? Lirian, one of the elf elders who had been silent till now asked, her expression grumpy. Speak clearly! My plan isnt to extend the Elder Tree''s lifespan but to create a new one. Its still a tree; and if its a tree, that means, it has a seedits legacy. I dont claim to know how to revive this one, but I do know how to plant another. That earned him multiple shock-filled gazes. Everything stilled before him when a voice spoke up. How exactly are you planning to do that? We don''t have another Elder Tree seed. Flossbor asked. Kai met his eyes without hesitation. First, theres propagation, he began. We take fragments of the Elder Treeits branches, buds, or barkand plant them. Over time, they might grow into new trees, maybe multiple. I dont know if theyd replicate the Elder Tree entirely, but even if they produce mana in smaller quantities, it would be a significant step forward. The councils reaction to his words were immediate. They exchanged glances, and Kai sensed their thoughts shifting from scepticism to intrigue. That could work Flossbor muttered and locked eyes with him, and he immediately noticed the twinkle of hope. I never thought of it like that, but would it really help? Propagation might not work with the Elder Tree, but we can certainly try. Kai allowed himself a small nod of satisfaction. The idea was taking root. But before he could speak further, another voice cut through the murmurs. But Flossbor, the Elder Tree is sacred! Lirian shouted. She shook her head frantically. We cant cut it or take its buds. Thats blasphemy! Elder Valeirith turned her gaze to Lirian. And if we dont try, the Elder Tree may not survive at all, she said. With its fragments spread far and wide, it wouldnt truly die. It would live on, in many forms. Kai seized the opening and nodded. Exactly. But Id never act without the Elder Trees consent, he said. Ill ask myself. If it refuses, the plan is off the table. Even as he spoke, Kais thoughts raced. Hed spoken to the Elder Tree before, and though its voice had been slow and distant, hed felt its will. It was a being of preservation and balance. He was certain it would agree. The whispers among the council grew louder, a mix of doubt and cautious optimism, until Caeliths voice sliced through the noise like a blade. You mentioned another method, Caelith said, his tone cutting. Lets hear it. You claimed to have more than one. Kai turned to face him, meeting his eyes calmly. The second method is far more difficult, he said. But if successful, it could end the cycle for tens of thousands of years. We need another Elder Tree seed. Caelith scoffed, his expression twisting with disbelief. Another seed? Where do you expect to find something like that? Flossbor already mentioned we don''t have something like that. he snapped. The Elder Tree is one of a kind. You could search the entire world, and you wouldnt find another. I finally understand that you dont grasp this entirely. Elder Valeirith Kai held his ground. Maybe we haven''t looked enough, he said, cutting him off. We have looked everywhere. We elves have records of searching through this realm to find another seed of the Elder Tree, but we haven''t found any traces of it. Caelith frowned, shaking his head with a tired voice. Kais gaze swept across the room before fixing on Caelith as he asked a simple question, Did I say we need to look in this realm? Caelith froze. What do you mean? There are more planes in existence. Elder Valeiriths lips pursed. Are you hinting at planar travel? she asked. You need to understand, Arzan, that while spirits can traverse into our world, the same does not apply to us. If we attempt to open a passage, it could create a tear in realityone that might kill us. Its a risk, one that Im not sure even might work. Sear?h the N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai nodded. I understand the dangers, he said. But Ive studied the records of an eight circle Magea powerful human who dedicated his entire life to understanding the planes and their connection to our world. He was said to have found a way to travel freely between them. The council leaned in as Kai continued. His writings spoke of small dimensionsintermediate spaces between the major planes. These act like floors in a tower, bridging the gap between our world and others. If we utilize these dimensions carefully, we could safely traverse to other planes without tearing reality apart. Elder Valeiriths eyes sharpened. And what plane would you aim for, Arzan? Not all are survivable. The flame and water planes are inhospitable to beings like us. Kai nodded again. Im aware. But the earth plane is different. Its rumored to be the plane with the highest concentration of mana in the cosmos, home to immense forests and trees that exhale mana like breath. If we can create a gate to the earth plane, we might find another Elder Tree seed. A murmur rippled through the room, the elders exchanging glances filled with doubt and wonder. Kai cleared his throat to gain back their attention. Right now, I believe the fragment plan should be our priority, he said. But if it fails, I would personally take on the task of creating a gate to the earth plane. Creating a gate to another world wont be easy. Are you capable of it, Arzan? Flossbor asked. Kai met his gaze evenly. Honestly, no, he admitted. Right now, Im too weak. Thats why this isnt our primary plan. But with time and strength, I believe I could achieve it. Flossbors expression softened into a thoughtful nod, and Elder Valeiriths lips curled into a faint smile. It is as it is, she said. We sought one way to save the Elder Tree, and Arzan here has offered us two. Both are worth pursuing. She turned to the other elders, her gaze sweeping across the room. By now, weve seen that Arzan is honorable and determined to save the Elder Tree, just as we are. For that, I propose that all of Sylvastra lend him its aid. Be it knowledge, labor, resourcesor even we elders ourselveslet us support him in this effort. Do any here disagree? Kai blinked in surprise as Elder Valeiriths words sank in. What she proposed wasnt just supportit was binding the entire elven nation to him, granting him their unwavering loyalty. It meant he could ask for anything, no matter how impossible it seemed, and they would give it their all to fulfill his request. The magnitude of it made him pause, his mind racing. As he waited, the elders began voicing their agreements one by one. I have no objection, Flossbor said firmly. Nor do I, Lirian added. The declarations came steadily, each elder nodding in turn. Kais eyes scanned the room until only Caelith remained. The elders sharp, contemplative gaze lingered on him, piercing as though weighing the truth of Kais resolve. After a long pause, Caelith inclined his head. I have no objection, he said finally. Just make sure your words hold truth or I will personally bring my wrath on you. Kai couldnt help the small smile that tugged at his lips, ignoring the last of Caelith''s words. With that, he had the full support of Sylvastra. Elder Valeiriths face softened into a smile of her own. Very well, then, she said, her voice echoing through the chamber. With this, Arzan Kellius is a true friend of the elves. If you need anything, you may ask, and we shall provide it. Kai hesitated for a heartbeat, staring at her as her words settled in. For some reason, it didnt feel like a simple ceremonial declaration and he soon realised why it was so. This was her cue for him to lay everything he needed on the table. He straightened, his hesitation evaporating. Actually, he said smoothly, not missing a beat, there are a couple of thingsbeyond druidic magicthat I could use. *** After the meeting with the elders, Kai found that things went smoother than expected. The elves posed no resistance to his requests, granting him everything he needed from Sylvastra. He gained access to their extensive archives on druidic magic and spirit tamers, as well as rare materials like lightwood and herbs for alchemy. Additionally, they provided the ingredients necessary for crafting the Elder Tree Concoction. Even the Elder Tree itself allowed its branches to be trimmed and its buds harvested. Kai planned to plant these fragments within his territory and the Vasper Forest, using them as a test to determine their effectiveness. If successful, the plan could be expanded globally. With everything accomplished, he wasted no time in preparing to leave Sylvastra, eager to return to his territory. His people needed him, and the next phase of his responsibilities awaited. Before his departure, however, he sought out Elder V''aleirith, determined to learn more about his role as a Fatebreaker. He found her in a secluded glade, the quietness of the forest creeped up to him rather quickly. But his feet didnt falter, he walked towards her. For some reason, he knew that she was aware of him even before he spoke. Elder V''aleirith, Ive been thinking. Does my lack of fate mean Im the only one who can change the fate of the world? It doesnt feel right to me. I think it must be more complex than that. She smiled at his question. How do you think it works, Arzan? He crossed his arms, gazing upward at the canopy as he gathered his thoughts. Fate isnt isolated. A persons fate must be interconnected with others. Humans constantly influence one anotherthrough their actions, their choices. It stands to reason that their fates would work the same way. She nodded, a glimmer of satisfaction in her expression. You are correct. As a Fatebreaker, you do not merely defy your own fate. You break the fates of all you touch, creating new possibilities for them. Every choice you make ripples outward, carving new paths for others to tread. Kais gaze dropped as her words settled over him, his thoughts drifting back to his territory. He thought of the people whose lives hed already altered. Amyra, for instanceshe wouldnt have survived the necromancer without him. And Veralt itself might have fallen to the beast wave had he not intervened. He realized that his actions had already reshaped countless lives, diverting them from paths they might have otherwise walked. Sylvastra was another step in this journey, but it was clear that his influence hadn''t reached a level where he could change the world''s trajectory. Elder V''aleirith''s expression grew more solemn as she continued. With you breaking the chains of fate and reshaping the lives of those around you, Arzan, youll have the power to unite people. They will follow you, and together, you might stand against the cycle and Maleficia. Kai frowned slightly at the term, thinking back to the vision the Elder Tree had shown him. The skeleton dragon. Elder V''aleirith nodded gravely. Yes. Malefic, the harbinger of the enda dragon that died long ago but refused to pass into the next realm. It lingers, driven by an insatiable desire to paint the world in dead mana, so it can rule over a land devoid of life. If I am correct, Malefic is still in slumber and has not stirred for an age. However, its followers work tirelessly to bring its vision to life. It sounds like youve already crossed pathed with them Kais jaw tightened as memories resurfaced. Yes, he admitted. And I will again, very soon. Images of Actra, Lucian, and Regina flickered in his mindmembers of the shadowy organization that had been pulling strings from the shadows. For so long, Kai had fought them without understanding who or what he was truly up against. But now, he has a nameMaleficia. That knowledge alone eased a small part of his curiosity, though the weight of what it meant settled heavily on his shoulders. Elder V''aleirith studied him carefully. From the way you speak, it seems you expect to face them sooner rather than later. Kai nodded. I believe so. She inclined her head. Then I apologize for keeping you here for so long. I know the journey back to your territory will take days, and your people must be waiting for you. Kai shook his head. Its fine, Elder V''aleirith. Besides, I dont intend to take the road back. Her brows knit in confusion. What do you mean? Kai smirked faintly. Before I came here, I studied the maps. The river that connects Sylvastra to Lancephil branches out into other currents, one of which passes near my territory. I plan to take a boat and travel that way. Her eyes widened slightly in surprise. That would take a long time, even with the aid of magic. And such prolonged effort would exhaust you sooner or later. Kais smirk grew into a small grin. Im not planning to use magic for the journey. Then? Raven talked about a lot of creatures that reside in the river that I used to come here. I''m just going to find one of them and see if it''s willing to let me test drudic magic on it. Hearing that, her silver eyes widened, first in confusion then with realisation at the meaning of his words settled. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 165. Underwater dungeon Lucians sharp eyes scanned the space, narrowing as they landed on the figure seated leisurely at a table, a crystal goblet in hand. The liquid within moved darkly, its coppery scent was unmistakably there, even at a distance. Lucians nose scrunched up involuntarilyrevulsion crossing his eyes before he forced his face. He wanted to act indifferent to the sight before him. But the stench... it was impossible to ignore. Rot and death hung thick in the air, emanating from the man before him like a shroud. No matter how many times Lucian had dealt with Shakran, the smell always made his stomach churn. Shakran lifted his head lazily, his crimson eyes boring into Lucian. His lips curled up, revealing unnaturally sharp teeth that had stained faintly with the remnants of his last meal. Lucian, he drawled. To what do I owe this unexpected visit? Have you already assembled your army? Lucian scoffed, and bit back his disgust. "Dont talk to me as if you have any authority here, blood drinker. My army has been ready for months. Even the mercenaries I hired are still in place, draining my coffers every single day. Its whos stalling. Why hasnt it started? I want Veralt razed to the ground, and I want it now." Shakrans smile widened, his fangs glinting due to the flickering light of the single lantern that hung above. He leaned back in his chair, swirling the goblet lazily before taking another slurp. Ah, Lucian, he flared his nostrils. Just as you dont work for me, I don''t work for you. I am here as a courtesyCa favor from Mistress Regina to assist you in this quest of yours. Lucian bristled at the mention of Regina, but Shakran continued before he could speak. "As for the delay," Shakran said, placing the goblet down with a soft clink, "youll be pleased to know it wont be much longer. Tonight, under the cover of the dead of night, Sylvan Enclave will know terror. The screams will echo far and wide. When the chaos is at its peak, you can march your righteous forces into the fray. And as for this brother of yours..." Shakran twisted his head like a mad man as his crimson eyes glowed even more. His smile widened. "I will handle him personally." "No, you wont." And why not? Irritation dripped from Shakran''s voice as he asked that. "The spy from Archine Tower is already in position. When the war begins, hell take care of Arzan. With him gone, the rest of his forces will crumble like sand underfoot. From the reports, hes the spearhead. Without him, this so-called fief war wont last a single day." A flicker of disappointment crossed Shakrans face, quickly replaced by a sly smirk. "How utterly boring! I was hoping to have a go at him myself. Its been too long since Ive faced a worthy opponent and from what I have heard about your brother, he seems like the right choice." Lucians eyes narrowed. "Do you think this is a game?" Shakran leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table, his smile never wavering. "Its not," he said, his voice a low purr. "But hunting strong Mages? Thats a personal game of mine. And, of course, drinking their blood. Theres nothing quite like the taste of a Mage who has fought to their last breath." Lucians jaw tightened, his disgust barely concealed. "If this spy of oursor should I say assassinmanages to kill him, his body will be buried according to the customs." Shakran tilted his head, intrigued. "How sentimental of you. I didnt think youd care for such traditions." Lucians gaze turned icy. "I hate my brother," he said coldly, "but Ill make sure his grave is made. Not for respect, but so I can look at it and revel in my victory. But if you do your part well, I might let you have your moment. You can suck him up before we bury him. Consider it... a reward." Shakrans eyes gleamed with unrestrained hunger, and his lips curled into a pleased grin. "Very well. You wont be disappointed by tonights show, Duke." *** Kai stood at the bow of the sleek wooden boat. The gentle current carried them forward. The only thing he heard was the sound of the water mingling with the occasional rustle of leaves from the dense forest flanking the banks. Over an hour had passed since theyd departed Sylvastra, leaving behind the ancient, wooden city of elves and its stoic elders with little fanfare. The farewell had been surprisingly warm. The elders, including the once-grim Caelith, had bid them safe travels, their earlier tension seemingly replaced by cautious optimism. Even so, the silence among Kai''s retinue hinted at the uncertainty that had settled over them. Hed waited until the boat was well underway before explaining his plan. The initial reactions had been mixednot from lack of faith in his abilities, but from concern about the risks involved. And he could tell that his team was still not entirely comfortable with his decision. Are you really sure about this, Lord Arzan? Gareth finally spoke up, breaking up the silence thatd engulfed them awkwardly. I wouldnt have decided without careful thought, he replied. And Ive already explained the plan to you in detail. Gareth hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line. Yes, but well be risking our lives for this, Lord Arzan. My life is fine to gamble, but I need to make sure that youre safe. That earned a smile from Kai, his eyes softened just enough to erase some of his tension. Gareth, Im capable enough to look after myself. I know youre concerned because we havent faced anything thats challenging since the beast wave, but this will be a good test of our mettle. He saw the man open his mouth to respond, but before he could, Raven stepped into the conversation. Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Do we really need to test ourselves against the ? Yes, we should. The rivers running through the Sylvan Enclave are vital, and I need eyes on them. Hiring a crew to patrol would draw too much attention. But if we can subdue the kraken and bind it with druidic magic, well rule the waterways. With its strength, well reach Veralt in less than two days instead of a week. Hesitation showed in Raven''s face as she thought for some time, probably thinking of some way to change his mind. I see the logic, she said after a while, not finding anything. Ill keep an eye on the monster. The rest of the group remained silent, focusing on the river and any creatures that might sprang up from beneath the surface. Kai took a deep breath. He hadnt initially planned to confront the kraken so soon; it had been a far-off idea, spurred by Ravens story of the creature. But Claires recent bond with a Grade 3 spirit had changed the equation. With two Spirit Trainers, seasoned Enforcers, and his own power, Kai doubted the kraken would stand much of a chance. In preparation, theyd stocked the boat with an arsenal of alchemical potions used for battles. Sylvastra had no lack of herbs and alchemical materials and thanks to that, Kai had been able to prepare all of them just before they left. And with that, more possibilities churned, increasing his confidence due to the potent tools at their disposal. He turned his eyes towards the river, squinting to notice it''s sheer depth. Rather than the actual battle, their first hurdle was to reach the underground dungeon. Its location had been the major reason for no elf to subdue it before, but it didnt limit Kai. He had already gotten a way to breath without a problem under water and now, the remaining task was to put the plan into action. The boat drifted to a gentle halt as Raven raised her hand, signaling the twins to stop rowing. The wide river was calm here, the only sound was the faint creak of wood and the soft lapping of water against the hull. Ahead, a massive tree loomed over the river, its gnarled roots dipping into the water like fat fingers of an old man. Raven turned back. Lord Arzan, I believe this is the location. There should be an underwater cave hereits where the dungeon is supposed to be. Kai nodded, already reaching for the satchel beside him. He pulled out several small vials filled with a faintly glowing blue liquid. The potion, which was dubbed Aqua Vitae had been prepared back in Sylvastra. Alright, Kai said, distributing the vials. Drink it. Well head underwater once it takes effect. Finn looked hesitant as he looked at the simmering blue liquid. What about the boat? Ill stay behind, Finnigan volunteered. Someone needs to guard it and our supplies. No telling what else might lurk in these waters. Kai nodded his approval, passing the remaining vials. As they held the vials in their hands, Gareth furrowed his brow. How does this work? Water contains oxygen, but its in such small amounts that humans cant process it. Sea creatures, however, can. The potion creates temporary pores across your skin that absorb dissolved oxygen from the water, allowing you to breathe. It lasts for an hour, so dont waste time. Also, we wouldnt be able to talk under water, so use hand signs whenever necessary. Keep an eye on each other. Once we find the dungeon, it should be easy. The group nodded, albeit warily. Kai uncorked his vial and downed the contents in one gulp. The liquid was surprisingly warm and salty, making him wonder if he had used too much of the herbaster grass. Almost immediately, his skin prickled as though tiny needles were dancing across it. The sensation intensified, popping and itching, until it settled into a strange equilibrium. As he adjusted to the potions effects, Kai drew a deep breath and cast [Wind Veil]. A translucent barrier of air came to life around each of them. A spell to help them enhance their visibility and improve their ability to move around in the water. Lets go now. Raven was the first to leap into the river, her form disappearing with barely a splash. One by one, the others followed until only Kai and the twin guarding the boat remained. With a quick glance back, Kai dove in, the cool water enveloping him in an instant. Beneath the surface, the world transformed into an ethereal realm of blues and greens. Sunlight filtered through the water, creating shifting patterns that danced over the sandy riverbed. Schools of fish darted to and fro, shimmering like living jewels. A group of silvery minnows swirled in a V formation, scattering as Kai moved closer. He activated his [Mana Perception], sending out invisible pulses to search for the dungeon. Almost immediately, he felt ita centralized concentration of mana deeper beneath the river. With a flick of his hand, he conjured a glowing [Lightball], its light cutting through the water and illuminating their path. Kai turned to the others and gestured, signaling the direction of the mana source. They nodded back in return. They swam deeper, the light from the surface fading as they descended. The world around them grew quieter, save for the rhythmic pulse of their movement and the faint hum of mana that Kai could feel in his heart. Strange underwater plants swayed gently in unseen currents, their tendrils brushing against the intruders. A crab the size of a dinner plate scuttled away, claws raised defensively. The water grew colder, thicker, darker and heavier with each passing moment, and Kai could feel the subtle but relentless push against his body. Yet, the more they descended, the stronger the mana pulse became, resonating in Kais heart like a deep drumbeat. After ten minutes of silent swimming, they finally reached ita large opening. The edges of the cave mouth were encrusted with coral and faintly glowing bioluminescent plants, marking it like the maw. Kai gestured to the others, pointing toward the entrance, and began swimming toward it. The group moved cautiously. The water inside was darker, muffling even the faintest currents from the outside river. The walls were smooth and oddly uniform, as if carved intentionally rather than formed by nature. Ahead, the terrain began to slope upward, and soon their heads broke through the waters surface. They emerged into a massive cave. The group climbed out of the water, droplets dripping from their clothes and gear, and stood on solid ground at last. Kai scanned the area as the others caught their breath. The faint glimmer of light from the cavern walls was just enough to see by, though the shadows danced menacingly in the corners. He focused on the overwhelming surge of mana deeper inside. We need to move, Kai whispered. I can feel a large source of mana up aheadprobably the core of the dungeon. Lets not waste time. The group nodded, looking at each other tensely. But soon, their focus shifted back to the task at hand. As they moved forward, their steps echoed faintly in the eerie stillness. Every single creak of armor or scrape of a boot against the rocky ground felt deafening in the oppressive silence. Kais gaze darted around, his mana perception on high alert. Yet, as he had suspected, there was nothing. No movement, no sign of life. If the kraken truly resided here, it wouldnt have tolerated any other creatures in its domain. Between its territorial nature and the dungeons inhospitable depth, it was unlikely that anything else could survive here. After several minutes of tense walking, the tunnel opened into a vast chamber. Kai halted, raising a hand to signal the group to stop. The room ahead was massive, its scale impossible to fully comprehend from their position at the edge. A faint, pulsating glow emanated from its center, creating flickering shadows across the walls. Before stepping forward, Kai turned to Claire. Claire, stay at the back. I know youve got a strong spirit, but youre not here to fight directly. Use your spirit to support us, and most importantly, stay safe. Your safety is paramount. Claire straightened at his words. Lord Arzan, I understand. Ive seen monsters up close during the beast wave. I believe I can handle myself. Kai nodded, his lips curling into a faint smile of approval. Good. Just follow my lead. With that, they moved into the chamber, their footsteps echoing ominously. The air grew heavier, almost suffocating with the density of mana. And then they froze. The scene before them was more than they had anticipated. Towering in the center of the room, its tentacles coiled around a massive, glowing crystalline core, was the kraken. Green, mottled skin glistened under the glow of the crystalline core it protected. Its tentacles coiled and uncoiled slowly. The thickness of each tentacle was as thick as the largest tree trunk, and it spread to cover much of the cave floor. Two dozen eyes, shut in sleep, dotted its enormous, bulbous head. Its massive size was intimidating, filling the room with a heavy presence even as it slept. The krakens body moved slightly, its breathing creating a low hum that seemed to echo through the air. The cores light gave it an eerie glow, highlighting scars and markings that crisscrossed its slick, scaled surface. Kai raised a hand, signaling everyone to come to a halt, his eyes narrowing as he studied the beast. It hadnt noticed them yet, its deep, steady breaths hiding the sounds of their careful movements. He leaned toward the others, speaking in a voice just above a whisper. Raven, he murmured, his eyes never leaving the massive creature, throw the explosive potions on my command. The rest of you, stay on guard and hold your weapons tight. Claire, stay backno matter what happens, do not come close. Everyone nodded. Raven took a few steps behind, and her hand went to her satchel, gripping the vials of explosive potion tightly. Everything was calm when Kai stepped forward, raising his hands in the air. Mana surged around him as he began constructing a spell. The chamber darkened slightly, the light from the core dimming as a swirling array of runes appeared in the air above him. The temperature rose sharply as flames began to coalesce into hundreds of blazing arrows, hovering in a precise formation above their heads. Kais eyes narrowed as he adjusted the aim, ensuring the arrows would strike exactly where he wanted. And still, the kraken remained oblivious. Now, Kai commanded, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade. Raven hurled the explosive potions. The vials flew through the air and shattered when they came intact with its body, erupting into violent bursts of fire and acid. The explosion rocked the cave, and the beast let out a deep shudder. It woke up. All twenty-four eyes flickered open, their glow intensifying as they focused on the intruders. A deafening, high-pitched screech echoed through the cavern, and the krakens massive tentacles uncoiled, thrashing wildly as it rose to its full, terrifying height. Kai watched as the creatures charred flesh began to regenerate almost immediately, the burned sections of its body knitting together with alarming speed. He didnt hesitate. Before it heals completely, attack! he shouted, releasing his spell. The flaming arrows rained down, streaking through the air like a comet. The krakens roar of pain and fury reverberated through the chamber as it turned its full attention to them. The battle began just like that. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 166. Kraken Kai felt a sprinkle of fear creep into him as he stared at the kraken in all its terrifying glorya fear he knew well, one that surfaced before every major battle. Since healing his Mana heart, he hadnt faced a creature this intense. The battle against the Storm Sovereign had been a different matter, with the aid of the elders tipping the scales. Contrary to what he thought, now, it was just him, a handful of Enforcers, and a greenhorn Spirit Trainer. He knew this fight wouldnt be easy. Yet, whatever fear flickered within him, he managed to push it down as the krakens tentacles began to writhe. He had no time to think. Hundreds of them lashed out simultaneously, green, slimy, and tipped with edges sharp enough to rival a blade. Sar?h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Spread out! Kai roared, releasing a volley of flaming arrows. The fiery projectiles scorched the beasts slimy hide, leaving trails of smoke, but it didnt falter. Instead, it screeched, a bone-chilling sound, and lunged into a relentless offensive. Gorak and Gareth met the charge head-on, their weapons glinting as they rushed toward the beast. Behind them, Raven and Finn positioned themselves as ranged support. The kraken retaliated, dozens of tentacles surging toward Gorak and Gareth, intent on crushing them. Kais mana flared as he conjured an [Ice Step] midair, shouting, Jump! The frozen surface materialized just in time for them to leap from it, narrowly avoiding the writhing appendages. Their blades gleamed with intent as they arced downward, aiming to sever the monstrous creature in half. Before Goraks weapon could connect with the krakens hide, a tentacle snapped around his leg, flinging him backward with brutal force. Kai reacted swiftly, casting [Featherfall] to cushion Goraks fall. Gareth, meanwhile, activated his shadow abilities, slipping through the chaos of tentacles with incredible speed. He closed the distance and drove his blade into the krakens stomach. A gush of green blood splattered across the floor, but the brief triumph was snatched away as the wound knitted itself shut in moments. More tentacles surged toward Gareth, forcing him to dodge and weave with increasing desperation. Its regenerating way faster than I expected! Kai shouted. Keep firing the exploding potions and arrows! He didnt bother checking if Raven and the twin acknowledged his order. Instead, he summoned [Wind Blades], guiding them through the air. The blades sliced through several tentacles, severed pieces falling to the ground with heavy thuds, kicking up dust. Kais eyes caught the tentacles regrowing, albeit slower than the wound on its stomach. That was a small advantage. Turning his focus back to the kraken, where Gorak and Gareth had reengaged the beast, he locked onto its many eyes, gleaming with malice. Thanks for giving me so many targets, he muttered under his breath, conjuring flaming arrows in the air. Not hundreds this time, but a few dozenenough for greater control. He fired the flaming arrows toward the kraken, but its tentacles shot up, blocking them before they could hit. Kai had expected this. With a wave of his hand and a steady flow of mana, he guided the arrows, making them twist and turn through the air. They darted between the moving tentacles, aiming for the creatures vulnerable spots. But the kraken wasnt an easy target. Its massive limbs moved with surprising speed, slapping the arrows aside one by one. The clash of fire against the slimy tentacles lit up the cavern, but none of the attacks hit their mark. Suddenly, a loud explosion echoed through the cavern. One of the potion bombs hit the krakens back, erupting in a burst of light and sound. The force shook the creature, its huge body reeling as it let out a deafening screech. Green blood oozed from the blast site, dripping onto the rocky ground below. Kai didnt waste the opening. With a sharp gesture, he sent three more flaming arrows streaking toward the kraken. This time, they moved faster, their paths more precise. The tentacles still tried to block them, but the beast wasnt quick enough. All three arrows hit their target, plunging into the krakens bulbous eyes. The creature roared in agony, its cries bouncing off the cavern walls. Its body thrashed wildly, sending tremors through the ground. Green blood rained down like a foul-smelling storm, covering Gorak and Gareth as they struggled to stay upright. Kai clenched his fists, his heart pounding. He knew one thing for sureno matter how strong a creature was, its eyes were always a weak spot. For a moment, he thought they were close to winning. But then, the kraken unleashed a deafening cryunlike anything they had heard before. It reached deep into their cores and stirred an instinctive terror. Kais eyes darted to his companions. Gorak and Finn collapsed to their knees, trembling. Gareth barely managed to stay upright, his blade quivering in his hand. Raven and Claire clung to the cavern walls, their faces pale and stricken with horror. Even Kai wasnt spared from the krakens screech. A wave of dread crashed over him, clouding his mind and freezing him in place. The haunting cry echoed in his head, whispering insidious thoughts. Kai clenched his fists, gritting his teeth as he fought against the oppressive weight of despair. He forced his trembling hands into motion and cast [Refresh], sending a surge of mana into his body. The spell washed over him like a cold river, clearing the fog in his mind and banishing the fatigue weighing him down. Even the soreness in his muscles faded. Snap out of it! he shouted, his voice cutting through the noise. Its just a sound! Fight through it! But his companions didnt move. Fear rooted them to the spot, their eyes wide with terror. The kraken seized the moment, its massive tentacles snapping forward like coiled springs, aiming straight for Gorak and Gareth. Kai didnt hesitate. He surged forward, summoning a [Flaming Whip] in his hand. The fiery lash crackled as he swung it with precision, severing the slimy tentacles in one powerful strike. The searing flames cauterized the wounds, preventing the severed limbs from regenerating too quickly. More tentacles followed, slithering and thrashing toward his group. Kai knew he couldnt rely on brute force alone. He extended his free hand, casting an [Ice Beam]that froze the incoming tentacles in mid-air. Frost spread rapidly along the writhing limbs, encasing them in an unyielding crystalline shell. The kraken roared in frustration, its immense strength cracking the ice as it struggled against its bindings. With a deafening crash, the frozen tentacles shattered, shards flying in all directions. But Kai was already prepared. Channeling his mana, he unleashed a fiery explosion that engulfed the krakens exposed body. Flames licked at its slimy flesh, eliciting another ear-splitting scream as the beast flailed in agony. The krakens retaliation was swift. Its remaining tentacles slammed into the cavern ceiling, dislodging massive chunks of rock. Kais heart sank. Damn it. The boulders hurtled toward him, too fast to counter. For a split second, he braced for impact. Then, a crackling bolt of lightning tore through the air, shattering the falling rocks into harmless fragments. Kai turned, his eyes widening in surprise and relief. Claire stood firm, her gaze steady, the Storm Sovereign glowing with raw energy by her side. Lightning danced around her, illuminating the cavern with an otherworldly light. Lord Arzan, are you okay? she called out. Kai nodded, brushing the dust from his shoulders. But before he could respond, the Storm Sovereign, an arrogant gleam in its otherworldly eyes, stepped forward. Human, you need to do better as my trainers liege, it said, its tone dripping with disdain. Kai smirked, ignoring the jab. Claire, go all-out. Ill handle the rest. Claire nodded, the Storm Sovereign roaring as lightning surged from its antlers. Bolts rained down, striking the krakens tentacles as they flailed wildly. Taking the chance of the distraction, Kai used [Wind Embrace] to pull Gareth and Gorak out of the krakens reach. Both fighters stumbled back but quickly readied their weapons, eyes locked on the beast. His eyes then shifted to the krakens massive body, its wounds already healing at an unnerving speed. An idea struck him. His eyes narrowed as he formulated his plan. With a quick gesture, he summoned a massive sphere of ice, hovering it above the kraken. Claire! he shouted. Strike it with lightning! The Storm Sovereign reared up, releasing a surge of electricity that tore through the ice ball. Kai didnt let it crash down. Instead, he ignited his flames, melting the ice into a torrent of scalding water. The boiling cascade poured onto the kraken, covering its entire body. The beast shrieked, its cries shaking the dungeon as steam rose in thick clouds. It writhed, its movements growing erratic under the searing pain. The Storm Sovereign stomped its hooves, releasing a powerful lightning strike straight into the krakens chest, sending it reeling backward. Now! Kai shouted. Gareth and Gorak leaped forward, weapons flashing as they struck in unison. Their blades sliced deep, cutting into the krakens core. Before the beast could begin regenerating, Kai unleashed a massive wave of fiery mana, forming a [Searing Trap] that wrapped around the creature. The flames burned brightly, keeping it bound in place. As the kraken thrashed, Kai used his wind magic to propel himself high into the air, landing on its massive head. He locked eyes with the beast, his mana surging as he sent a thread of energy directly into its core. His voice was loud, talking to the monster in a dominating way. Submit, or I will end you here and now. The krakens body trembled, its movements slowing as Kais mana bore down on it. *** A man stood over the crumpled, bloody body of the village guard, his lifeless eyes staring blankly at the dirt. He tilted his head slightly, as if inspecting the corpse for a moment before shifting his gaze to the small village nestled beyond the hill. A scattering of simple thatched-roof houses surrounded a modest central square, where a solitary well stood. Smoke lazily drifted from a few chimneys, and the faint sound of livestock carried on the wind. It was easier to get in than I expected, he muttered. Behind him, another figure emerged from the shadows, a smirk twisting their lips. These humans are pitiful. One little vein gets poked, and they bleed out like pigs. The first man shrugged, stepping over the body. Makes our job easier. His boots crunched softly against the dirt path as he began walking toward the village. But before they could proceed further, faint footsteps caught their attention. A lone man was approaching, humming to himself, his lantern casting flickering light in the approaching dusk. As the newcomer came closer and spotted the group, his cheerful demeanor vanished. He froze mid-step, confusion flashing across his face before it gave way to horror. His eyes widened as recognition set in. You The leader of the group moved in a blur, faster than the man could react. A single, devastating punch landed square in his stomach, and the man crumpled, blood spurting from his mouth. He fell to his knees, gasping and trembling. Scream, and youre dead, the leader hissed, his voice sharp enough to carve through stone. P-please, the man choked out. I dont want to die. I have kids... please... The leader crouched, his face inches from the mans pale and blood-streaked face. If you dont want them to grow up orphans, youll tell me where the village heads house is. Tears streamed down the mans cheeks as he pointed westward, toward a larger house standing at the edge of the village. Its modest size and the faint glow from its windows marked it as the home of someone more important than the others. That one... thats his house, the man stammered, his voice barely audible. The leader stood, nodding. Good. Youve done your job. The man looked up, hope flickering briefly in his eyes. Please, spare my life...? Before he could finish, his head snapped to the side, cleanly severed from his body. Blood sprayed across the dirt as the man tossed the lifeless form aside. He turned to his followers, his gaze like ice. Get to work, he commanded. Kill everyone. No mercy. And if youre thirsty, drink your filleven from the babies. The group grinned, their eyes glowing with a predatory hunger as they moved toward the village, their shadows stretching long under the fading light. The quiet village, unaware of the terror descending upon it, would soon be drenched in blood. The blood drinker glanced back at his group, a cruel smirk on his lips. "Dont stick around for long. Finish the job. Ill deal with the chief myself." His followers nodded silently, their expressions hungry and eager as they dispersed toward the houses. The blood drinker didnt spare them another glance, even as the first screams erupted from the darkened village. They pierced the night but he paid them no mind. He had a mission. He strode toward the village chief''s house, his pace unhurried. Reaching the modest structure, he kicked the door open with enough force to rattle the entire frame. The dull thud of the door hitting the wall echoed into the small hearth-lit room, where a man and woman stirred awake, startled. A child between them began to whimper as the shadows of the intruder loomed large. The village chiefs instincts kicked in immediately. One hand went protectively around the kid and the other darted for the knife resting by the bed. With a desperate yell, he lunged at the intruder, blade flashing in the firelight. The blood drinker didnt flinch. He allowed the knife to sink into his chest, stopping only when it met his ribs. He glanced down, a smile stretching across his face. "Youre weak," he murmured, grabbing the mans wrist and twisting it with a sickening crack. The chief cried out in pain as he fell to his knees. Behind him, the woman cowered, clutching the child close. The blood drinkers cold, pale face turned to them, his eyes glinting like rubies in the firelight. The childs cries grew louder, and the womans tears flowed freely. Pathetic, the blood drinker said, lifting his hand. Thin, crimson darts formed in the air around him, pulsing with a sinister glow. With a flick of his wrist, the darts shot forward, piercing both the woman and the child before they could scream. Blood splattered the walls, painting it red, and the room fell into a deafening silence, save for the crackling of the hearth. The village chief, his face contorted in grief and rage, looked up at his familys murderer. "Why... Why kill them?" he croaked. The blood drinker crouched down, his lips curling into a cold smile. "You wronged the wrong person! Or rather, your baron did. And now, youre going to pay for it." With a casual flick of his hand, the blood drinker sent the man sprawling against the wall. The chief groaned in pain, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. He looked up, his spirit shattered. "Just kill me," he begged, his voice barely above a whisper. His eyes lingered on the lifeless bodies of his wife and child. Soon, a sob escaped his lips, and another followed, and another. The blood drinker stood, towering over the broken man. "Wouldnt you like that? Please! Isnt that what you want? Do it! No," he said. "Someone needs to spread the story. To make sure it doesnt happen again." The chiefs eyes widened in shock. W-w-what? "Run. Tell everyone you meetif you cross Count Arzan, you die." As he spoke, flames erupted behind him, licking the walls and consuming the room in a fiery glow. The village chief scrambled to his feet, clutching his broken wrist, and staggered toward the door. He paused for one last look at the man who had destroyed his world, then fled into the night, his cries drowned by the roar of the flames and the screams echoing from the rest of the village. The blood drinker stood in the inferno, watching the chaos he had unleashed, his smirk never fading. "Message delivered," he murmured before turning back toward the village, his blood-red eyes gleaming. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. By the way, we crossed 8k followers. Thank you so much! - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 167. A war approaches Using a different type of magic was always a special experience. Each element and school had its own essence, its own flavor that lingered with the caster. Kai could still recall the first time he cast a fire spellthe pleasant heat dancing on his palms, warm and harmless to him but devastating to his foes. The first gust spell he''d learned brought with it the exhilarating freshness of wind, as if he were suddenly a part of the sky itself. Over time, he had dabbled in many forms of magic. He didnt specialize in all of them, but he took pride in mastering their basics. Out of everything he had tried, druidic magic stood out as the most unique. It was about bonding, becoming one with creatures and the environment and not just controlling nature. Casting druidic spells felt as if hed gained a whole new set of eyes. Or rather, sets of senses. At present, he was bound to a kraken. A massive, powerful creature like that wasnt easy to subdue, and the process of establishing the bond had been exhausting. It had taken hours of combat, wearing the beast down until it was forced to submit. Even then, the best bond Kai could manage with his limited druidic skill was a mere First Circle spell: [Basic Bond]. The bond allowed for rudimentary commands and a faint sense of camaraderie, but not much else. He could share limited senses with the krakenenough to know what it saw and feltbut the connection was tenuous at best. Worse, the kraken had retained enough autonomy to resist commands it deemed too outlandish. If he ordered it to ram itself into rocks, for example, it could simply refuse. In time, that would change. Higher-level druidic spells could enforce more control and unlock greater synergy, but Kai wasnt sure hed ever reach that point. Druidic magic wasnt his strength, and he instinctively knew his affinity for it was lacking. Still, the [Basic Bond] served its purpose for now. The wind whipped past his face as the kraken swam with speed, pulling the boat behind it. Kai sat at the back, gripping the boats rear for balance. Maintaining the bond wasnt overly difficult, but it came with a mental strain he wasnt used to. It was a strange, unpleasant sensationbeing tethered to a slimy, tentacled creature and sharing its sensations. "Are you okay, Lord Arzan?" Gareths voice broke through his thoughts. Kai glanced at the knight, forcing a smirk. Yeah. I just feel like I drank some ridiculously expensive alcohol. Gareth chuckled. You wont be hungover for long. The kraken is fasttoo fast. We should reach the territory soon enough. Kai nodded, though his mind was elsewhere. Gareth continued, his tone almost amused. Its already scared a few fishermen along the banks. You shouldve seen their faces. But the good news is, well pass through all the noble territories before anyone can send word about this... unconventional ride. Kai let out a low chuckle at that, his grip on the boat relaxing slightly. The thought of causing a stir among the local lords with his bizarre method of travel was satisfying. For now, he could only hope the kraken would behave until they reached their destination. That would be for the best, Kai said. I dont want any problems with more nobles when were already heading straight into trouble with a Duke. Gareth glanced at him, his expression taut, as if silently wishing Kais words were a joke. Kai exhaled, leaning back slightly against the boats edge. Winters just weeks away. If Lucian is going to make a move this year, itll be soon. I wouldnt be surprised if hes already stirred up something during my absence, and Francis is barely managing to keep things in check. But I dont want to jump to conclusions. Well see for ourselves soon enough. Gareth nodded, though the concerned look on his face remained. Kai could see the wheels turning in the knights mind, likely mulling over the weight of the days to come. Are you afraid of war, Gareth? Kai asked, breaking the silence. The knight hesitated, his gaze distant before answering. Yes, honestly, I am. Id be lying if I said otherwise. But Id be far more terrified if you hadnt helped me unlock my gift, Lord Arzan. Now, aside from the fear of death, theres just... responsibility. A duty to play my part. He glanced at Kai, a flicker of gratitude crossing his face. You gave me a new lease on life when you chose me to fight at your side. Ill never forget that. I dont know if you remember, my lord. But I first met you when you distributed the heat stones. A long time ago. Kai smiled. Actually, I do. I remember your face when you received them. Yes, Gareth said with a chuckle. I was just a miner back then, teetering on the edge of death with no food, no warmth, and barely any hope. Both my wife and I were suffering in that cold, but your help saved us. Not only did we survive, but I went on to become a knight. I never imagined Id be where I am now, standing at your side. He paused, his voice growing firmer. These days, I feel ambition growing in my heart. And I know the only way to fulfill it is to gain achievements in the war to come... and to protect you. Kai felt something bubbling up in his chest. He didnt know if it was the sentimental nature of saving lives when they were needed or the look on Gareths face. He let out a breath through his nose. I can protect myself, Gareth. Your job is to protect Veralt. Do that well, and youll rise in authority. Their conversation was cut short as Kais head snapped forward, his posture instantly alert. He rose from his seat, his gaze sharp as he scanned the river ahead. What is it, my lord? Gareth asked, his hand instinctively moving toward his weapon. Weve reached the Sylvan Enclave, Kai replied, letting go of the conversation that happened. His eyes were on the path ahead. If we keep going from here, well pass dangerously close to Lucians territory. I dont want that. Well stop here and travel the rest of the way by land. Veralt isnt far. With that, Kai turned his focus inward, his mind reaching out to the kraken through their tenuous bond. He willed the creature to slow, his thoughts commanding it to stop. The kraken let out a shriek, the sound resonating through the air as its massive body slowed in the river. The boats pace diminished until it finally glided to a stop along the riverbank. Without a single word, they all got down cautiously, their boots crunching against the rocky shore. The area was quiet, devoid of peoplea fortunate turn, given their unconventional method of travel. Kai exhaled, releasing the strain of maintaining the bond. The kraken lingered in the water, its tentacles stirring faint ripples, as if waiting for further instructions. Fortunately, no ones around to see this, Gareth murmured, glancing warily at the water. Kai nodded. Lets move. Veralt is close, and weve already taken enough risks for one day. As the group moved a bit far from the water, Kai turned to the kraken, its tentacled form writhing in the water. He raised his hand, his voice calm but commanding. Make a base around here. Youll be needed soon. The kraken let out a piercing screech, the sound vibrating through the air in protest. Kai narrowed his eyes, his tone firm. Just do it. Ill make sure to send you something nice to eat. You know what will happen if you dont follow my command. The creature emitted an ugly snort, one of its massive tentacles splashing against the rivers surface before it finally relented. With a powerful dive, the kraken vanished beneath the water, the ripples fading into stillness. Kai watched the water for a moment, his thoughts lingering on the tenuous bond they shared. He turned back to the group gathered behind him. Guess were walking from here, Finn muttered, complaining at the thought. It doesnt matter, Gorak rumbled, his massive arms crossed. Take it as exercise. Were far stronger than we were before, anyway. Kai raised a hand, silencing the conversation. No, we wont be walking. The group looked at him, eyebrows raised in confusion. Kai stepped forward, moving a short distance away from the group. He flexed his fingers, feeling the familiar surge of mana coursing through him. He reached deep into his reserves, visualizing the spell structure in his mind. Slowly, he began to bring it into existence. Threads of mana spun outward from his hands, forming an array in the air before him. The spell structure gleamed, a complex design of concentric circles and intersecting lines, etched with runic symbols that pulsed with energy. The structure rotated slowly, growing brighter with each second as Kai fed more mana into it. [Tempest Steed Conjuration] With the spells name uttered, the structure pulsed one final time before dissolving into a swirl of wind. The air shifted immediately, coalescing into three massive forms. Three horses. They were translucent yet solid, their forms rippling with wind. Their manes flowed with a constant breeze, and their eyes glowed faintly with azure light. And the sizethey were quite taller than real horses, but still managed to neigh and imitate real ones. The group stared in awe. Finnigan even covered his mouth. Ive never seen a spell like this, Gorak admitted from behind. Kai exhaled, a bead of sweat forming on his brow. Its a fourth-circle spell. Keeping three of them active drains a significant chunk of my reserves. Theyll last for about two hours, give or take. He mounted the nearest steed, its body giving way slightly under his weight before solidifying. Looking toward the horizon, Kais gaze hardened. We need to hurry. I want to reach Veralt as soon as possible. Get on these horses, lets move. *** The walls of Veralt finally came into focus after two hours of riding. Kai felt the strain of maintaining the conjured horses, his mana reserves drained to a point where he could feel the faint pounding in his temples. The horses, burdened with both human passengers and supplies, werent able to maintain their full speed, but they had done decently enough that the walls of Veralt were extremely closeby. A small smile tugged at Kais lips as he gazed at the city. Sylvastra had its own charm, and the thrill of travel always brought new opportunities, but Veralt had become home. The rhythm of life here, the citys quirks, and its people had made their way into his routine. On the walls, the flags of Veralt fluttered proudly in the wind, the image of phoenix brought a sense of familiarity to his mind. The guards stationed there seemed to recognize Kai and his party instantly, their postures shifting as they shouted commands to open the gates. The heavy creak of the massive gates echoed through the air, a sound that Kai found oddly comforting. Some guards descended from their posts, clearly intent on greeting him or offering updates. Kai, however, simply waved them off, urging his wind steed forward. Later, he said briskly. I need to get to the castle first. As they moved deeper into the city, the streets came alive around them. The marketplace bustled with activity, vendors calling out their wares to passersby. Kais gaze swept over the improvements that had taken place in his absence. The roads that were ladened with potholes, were now almost entirely smoothed and paved. The work of the Earth Mages had left its mark, with neatly aligned stones forming clean, sturdy paths. There were more merchants than their usual count whod set up stalls. And everywhere he looked, he was greeted with progress and energy. Yet, as he observed more closely, he noticed something amiss. Conversations at the market stalls were quieter than usual, the laughter of the children seemed slightly forced, and there was an unusual tension in the air. Groups of people stood clustered together, their heads bent as they spoke in hushed tones. A woman glanced nervously over her shoulder before disappearing into an alley, her steps quick and deliberate. Kais smile faded as his gaze froze, taking in the undercurrent of unease creeping its way through the city. As Kai rode through the streets, he noticed the change in the way people reacted to his presence. Normally, his appearances would bring cheers or words of encouragement from the city folk. They would yell his name and people would even start celebrating his arrival. Claps and smiles always brought some sort of soothing to him whenever he was out in the city. Today, however, there were only respectful bows, given as per custom, and furtive whispers behind hands. No voices rose in celebration, and no smiles greeted him. Instead, their gazes lingered on him. Some even looked angry. Kais unease deepened. He glanced back at his companions, their expressions mirroring his own concerns. Without needing to say a word, he urged the group to pick up their pace. Lets hurry, he said. The others nodded, falling into step behind him as they approached the castle. By the time they reached the gates, Francis was already waiting for them, flanked by Kiliian and, to Kais surprise, Princess Amara. Clearly, word of his arrival had spread quickly. As soon as Kai dismounted, the wind horses dissipated into thin air, the mana structures unraveling into the breeze. His retainers bowed, but before anyone could offer a greeting or ask questions, Kai spoke, his voice sharp with urgency. Whats happening? Why is the city so tense? Francis and Kiliian exchanged uneasy glances before Francis finally stepped forward, his expression grave. Lord Arzan, he began, a village was attacked. Dead of night. It was a massacre. Kais eyes widened, his body tensing. One of our villages? Near Veridis? Francis shook his head. No, my lord. It wasnt one of ours. It belonged to Baron Idrin. Kais mind flashed to Baron Idrin, trying to remember his face. He knew he was a neighbour and had been there at the count ceremony, but there hadn''t been enough time to make more than acquaintances with him. I guess people are tense because it was so close by, but who exactly was responsible for the massacre? Franciss breath picked up as he placed his hand on his chest. Thats not the worst part, my lord. The entire village was slaughteredmen, women, childrenall of them, save for the village chief. Amara stepped forward. And he was left alive for a reason, Lord Arzan. To send a message. Francis looked at Amara and back at Kai. What message? Kai asked. The village chief, the only one left alive, claims the attackers were strange. Inhuman creatures. They left him with a message, saying it was you, Lord Arzan, who ordered the massacre. Theyre tying it to the recent land disputes with Baron Idrin. Kai froze. I didnt do it. I wasnt even here. He tried to keep his calm, although his mind churned in anger. Amara stepped forward. Sear?h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Yes, but thats exactly how the rumors are spreading. They''re saying youre in league with dark creatures, that your recent strength comes from some sinister source. Its the kind of tale that spreads like wildfire. Before Kai could reply, Amara inhaled sharply. And it doesnt end there. Duke Lucian has publicly declared his support for Baron Idrin. While no official word has come yet, Sylvan Enclave is abuzz with one rumor Duke Lucian is preparing to avenge the innocent lives lost. Killian, standing at Franciss side, crossed his arms with a steeled gaze. Which means, he said, were about to face war. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 168. Pawns and lord Kai, Francis, and Killian walked up the winding staircase to the meeting room on the upper floor. All the while, they were silentthe air hummed with tension that needed no words to express, and each of them wore a hardened expression. Amara stood at the base of the stairs, her eyes tracking their ascent. She made no move to join them, her hands clasped loosely before her. Kai knew that this was not her battle and she seemed to understand that too. The weight of the matters they were about to discuss would only drag her into unfamiliar waters where shed be a hindrance rather than help. When he looked back, she let out a small, resigned sigh, and turned away, granting them the space they needed. With that, he moved upstairs. Soon, they reached the meeting room. The room was anything but commanding, with its tall windows and a long, dark wooden table at its center. However, none of the men moved to take a seat. Kai, standing near the head of the table, gestured briefly with his hand. Lets begin. Francis, the report. Francis nodded immediately. He wasted no time on pleasantries or discussions of mundane progress in the territory. It started five days after you left, my lord, he said, folding his arms across his chest. A day after Amyra woke up. Kais brows shot up, his focus shifting immediately. Amyra woke up? Yes. Killians deep voice rumbled from where he stood to Kais left. Shes recovering well and is being cared for. Theres no need to worry about her right now. Kai exhaled slowly, a flicker of relief crossing his face. He gave a small nod, letting the news settle before he waved for Francis to continue. Baron Idrin made his move, Francis resumed. He intimidated one of the villages near Verdis. I intercepted before things could spiral out of control and arranged for a discussion. But Francis shook his head. It went nowhere. Idrin kept prodding, antagonizing, trying to provoke me. At the time, I thought he was stalling or setting up some scheme. His voice dropped slightly. I didnt expect the truth. He was working with Duke Lucian all along. Kais jaw tightened, his eyes narrowing. Lucian I knew he would do something, but I never imagined hed go as far as to sacrifice an entire village. The weight of those words hung heavily in the room. Kai closed his eyes for a moment, his fingers brushing the corner of the table to ground himself. Lucian is playing the reputation game, he said slowly after thinking it through. He lost his chance to rise after the beast wave. I took that glory, and now hes turning to dirtier tactics to claw it back. Aligning with Idrin, killing innocents, and framing me its all calculated. The men are ready, Killian said. Every day, Ive drilled them in formations and strengthened their weapon skills. Theyre prepared to fight, my lord. Whenever you give the command, theyll march. Kai gave a slight nod but didnt immediately reply. His gaze shifted between his retainers, his mind turning over the possibilities. Well march soon. But before we act, we need to know exactly what were up against. Lucians forces, his allies, his resourceseverything. This isnt just about us. The Sylvan Enclave wont escape the ripples of war. No noble will be able to stay neutral in this conflict. Baron Idrin has already pledged his allegiance to Lucian. That much is clear, Francis said with a short sigh. Ive sent a courier to five other nobles in the Sylvan Enclave, hoping to secure their aid, but For all we know, theyve already sworn fealty to him too. House Kellius has ruled these lands for generations and your reputation is shaky right now, my lord. Its fine, Kai replied. With the Enforcers and the Mages weve gathered, I think well manage. None of the nobles in the Sylvan Enclave have mana cannons or golems. That alone gives us an edge. Despite his confidence, Kai couldnt deny the value of having more allies. His gaze drifted to the table, fingers tapping lightly. He straightened, the flicker of doubt vanishing as quickly as it came. . Still, Franciss report tugged at him. The creatures. Strange. Inhuman. His jaw tightened as he turned to his retainers. You mentioned the ones who killed the villagers. You said they were strange, inhuman creatures? Francis nodded, his brow furrowing. Thats the rumour, he admitted. Ive tried to gather more information, but theres no clarity. Whatever Lucians using, hes kept it well-hidden. I couldnt get a single reliable witness to describe them clearly. Kai frowned upon hearing that. Lucian''s alliance with Maleficia wasn''t just a theory. He knew that for sure. But were these creatures always with him? Or did Regina send them for his aid? The queens interference couldnt be ruled out. Either way, the source didnt matter as much as the nature of the threat itself. What about their form? Kai asked, Were they humanoid? Francis frowned, thinking. Yes, thats what the rumors say. Humanoid, but He hesitated, searching for the right words. Demonic. Kai''s gaze sharpened, thinking through every dead mana race he could think of and finally, he let out a slow breath, singling out one of them that matched the description he had heard about. Blood drinkers Or blood suckers, if you prefer the term. Killian shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing. Ive never fought one. Kais lips pressed into a thin line. Theyre humanoid, yes. They can fly, which makes them especially lethal. And like Mages, they have their own hierarchy. Pawns, knights, lords, elders, and progenitors. Think of them like the pieces of a battle board game. But far more dangerous. They possess blood manipulation abilities and instincts honed for combat. A perfect blend of cunning and savagery. Francis grimaced. They sound hard to deal with. It depends on their rank, Kai replied. If its a group, its likely pawns or knights. But if Regina is involved Then she wont send weaklings. If I were her, Id send someone competent. Strong. Theres a good chance were dealing with a lord. A lord? Theyre equivalent to a fourth-circle Mage and a third-stage Enforcer. Not an easy opponent by any means. If Lucian has their aid He cant risk using them openly, not after framing me as being in cahoots with them. It would undo his entire scheme. But that means we need to watch for sneak attacks. Killians expression hardened as he nodded. Understood, he said. So, what will be our next course of action? Kai let his mind wander, collecting his thoughts about the current situation. First, we send a report to the capital. It needs to detail everythingwhats happened, what weve discoveredand make it abundantly clear that we are not responsible for any of this. This is Lucians scheme. He paused, his fingers now tracing the paths on the map. Im certain hes already sent his own version of events, claiming righteousness as his justification for war. Hell dress it up with hypocritical platitudes, painting himself as the unwilling victim forced into action. Thats why we need to move quickly. If were too slow, his lies will take root. Francis frowned, his brows knitting together in thought. And if the crown hesitates to act? he asked. Then well handle this on our own, Kai replied firmly. The moment the capital locks the borders for a fief war, our territory will be sealed off from aid. We have to be prepared for that inevitability. Killian leaned forward, his arms braced on the table. And the offensive? Duke Lucian thinks well be caught off-guardleft reeling while he strikes. But we cant let him dictate the pace. Kais lips curled into a cold, predatory smile. Exactly. Lucian believes hes the hunter, but we need to remind him of one thing, we are the predators here. *** Regina lounged on the massive custom-made chair in her private study, one hand plucking plump grapes from a gilded platter as the other traced absent patterns across the sprawling map before her. The map, detailed to an almost obsessive degree, captured every road, village, and noble house of the Sylvan Enclave. Her crimson-painted nails hovered briefly over the two houses poised for war, her lips curving into a slow, thoughtful smile. She looked up at her servant, Selwin, who entered the room. Report, she commanded, her tone soft but laced with the promise of consequences if the answer displeased her. Selwin bowed deeply, stepping forward without hesitation. The rumors are spreading faster than we anticipated, my lady. Theres a growing intrigue around Arzan Kellius after the beast wave. His innovationsthose mana cannons and Heat stoneshave captured attention far beyond his borders. Even in the capital, his reputation has risen sharply after defeating Reyk in the duel. But He hesitated, as if savoring the next part, then continued. Now the narrative is shifting. Whispers are taking root, claiming his meteoric rise is due to dark powers. Its said that his unnatural ascent to becoming a Mage and his sudden strength are tied to forbidden arts. Ive seen to it that the bards weave tales of his pasta weakling, a wastrel plagued by vein blockage, suddenly gaining power without explanation. The theories are... numerous. Reginas smile deepened, a predatory gleam lighting her eyes. She plucked another grape, biting into it. So, his reputation is finally faltering. Selwin nodded. Yes, my lady. But the shift is slow. There are still those who refuse to believe it. Arzans victories, especially his role in protecting his city from the beast wave, have earned him stubborn supporters. Even the church has remained unusually silentwatching, but not yet intervening. Reginas expression turned contemplative, her gaze drifting back to the map. The church, she murmured, almost to herself. Their silence is telling. They know something is stirring. Her fingers drummed lightly on the table. And the fief war? How soon? It will begin in less than a week, Selwin replied confidently. The tension is palpable. The entire Sylvan Enclave is bracing for it, and its clear no noble will escape involvement. Regina leaned back, the chair creaking softly beneath her. She studied the map as if it were a game board, her thin fingers methodically arranging the pieces. At the center stood a lone king piece, surrounded by a menacing array of enemies. Her lips curled into a cold, satisfied smile. Finally, she murmured. The scenario I envisioned is coming to fruition. Did you send the message to get Amara to come back? Regina asked. That imbecile has the gall to flee to territory of all places. If only she knew how hard I worked to suppress information about her... indiscretions. Selwin cleared his throat, shifting nervously. I sent men to retrieve her, my queen, but... theres no word from them yet. Reginas eyes narrowed dangerously. Keep looking, she snapped. Do your job well, or Ill find someone who can. It is imperative that I deal with that girland more importantly, ensure dies. Only then can I move on to the next phase of my plan and place Eldric on the throne. The servant nodded hastily, but his posture stiffened as he suddenly hesitated. What is it now? Regina asked, irritation flaring in her voice. Theres... one more thing, my queen, Selwin stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. The weight of the room seemed to press down on him as Reginas small eyes fixed on him. Rumors in court suggest the king may intervene in the fief war. It seems... hes considering sending a herald to stop it. For a moment, silence gripped the chamber. The only sound was the faint rustle of the map under Reginas fingers as her nails traced the intricate borders. Her eyes narrowed, and her lips curled into a tight line. Then, without warning, her palm slammed onto the table, sending the carefully arranged battle pieces clattering across the map. S~ea??h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. That damn lazy fool? she spat. Why now? Why, after all these years of neglect and indulgence, would he meddle ? Her gaze darted toward the ceiling as though accusing some unseen force. He abandoned the throne! He abandoned the kingdom! Why does he suddenly care about a war he has no stake in? Selwin flinched, his shoulders hunching instinctively as if her fury might lash out physically at any moment. Beads of sweat formed on his brow as he tried to form a coherent response. I... I dont know, my queen, he stammered, his voice shaking. Reginas expression twisted into something darker, her fury simmering into cold calculation. She began pacing the room, the hem of her gown brushing against the floor in sharp, deliberate movements. No matter, she said sharply, her voice rising as she pointed a trembling finger at the servant. Intercept any orders he sends to halt the war. Any! Do you hear me? Selwin nodded hastily, his head bobbing like a puppets. Yes, my queen. And if he sends heralds, she continued, her tone icy but laced with venom, kill them before they reach the Sylvan Enclave. Silence them. The war must proceed at all costs. Lucian must win. He swallowed hard, his throat dry as parchment. As you command, my queen. Her pacing slowed, and for a moment, her voice dropped, her usual composure cracking like thin ice. If theres even one mistake... even one... like with the beast wave Her words faltered, and her hand gripped the edge of the table as if to steady herself. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for something unseen, as panic began to creep into her voice. If even one thing goes wrong... Her breathing grew erratic, the rhythm of her words spiraling out of control. Her fingers trembled as she reached for a small vial resting on the edge of the table. The dark liquid inside swirled ominously, its surface shimmering faintly. Regina fumbled with the stopper, her hands shaking violently, but managed to uncork it and drink deeply. The dead mana coursed through her, its bitter taste ignored in favor of the calming effect it brought. Her breathing slowed, and the tension in her shoulders eased slightly. She exhaled shakily, muttering under her breath. It will be fine. Everything will go according to plan. It to. Her gaze snapped back to the servant, who remained frozen in place, his wide eyes fixed on the floor. He flinched as her focus landed on him, his body stiffening like prey caught in a predators gaze. Why are you still here? she snapped, her voice regaining its sharpness. The man bowed hurriedly, his movements jerky and frantic. Apologies, my queen, he mumbled, backing away. He nearly tripped over his own feet in his haste to leave, his shadow vanishing into the corridor as the door shut behind him. Now alone, Regina turned back to the map. Her hand hovered over the scattered pieces before settling on the central king piece, the representation of Arzan. Her fingers curled around it, trembling with barely contained rage. This time, she whispered, her voice low and venomous, I will win, Arzan. Youll die, just like your mother. Her grip tightened until the fragile piece shattered in her hand, shards splintering into her palm. The pain went unnoticed, her focus fixed on the broken remains that now littered the table. Blood mixed with the splinters, staining the edges of the map. She stared at the ruined king piece for a long moment before a cruel smile crept across her lips. Soon, she murmured to the empty room. Soon, youll falland everything will finally be mine. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 169. One in a crowd Rubert''s breath hitched as he stood in the throng of people gathered outside the castle of House Kellius. Almost every adult in the city had come, and their faces were filled with tension and seriousness as they awaited the announcement. One of war. For days, whispers had circulated through the streets, markets, and taverns, painting a grim picture. The people werent fools. They had pieced together what was comingit only needed to be spoken aloud. The signs were everywhere: mercenaries roamed freely, their presence unquestioned, while city guards patrolled with a frequency that suggested something was not right. Yet, even with all they suspected, Rubert knew the truth was far worse. Beneath the surface of their speculations were a darkness that they wouldnt be able to swallow. And Arzan Kellius, once celebrated as a hero for defeating the beast wave, was now accused of horrific deeds. Rumors spread that he had allied with dark creatures and ordered the destruction of an entire village under Baron Idrins protection, all because of a small land dispute. However, Rubert knew these stories were falsea complete distortion of the truth. But what could he do? No one would believe him. No one would listen. In the past few months, he had come to understand a harsh reality: he was powerless, just a bystander, unable to influence what was happening. He had no voice, and the one he had; he had to use it to command servants that were under someone elses disposal. It was devastating to say the least. He silently watched what was unfolding before him, keeping his hands clenched together in front of him. The whispers turned to a ripple through the crowd as motion appeared atop the castle wall. Lucian stepped out, flanked by four guards. The tall, imposing figures stood at the four sides. They all wore darkened steel armoy with House Kellius crest of a mighty rayan eagle. Their faces were hidden behind visors that had intimidating patterns, and their hands rested on the hilts of their swords. As always, they were poised for action, and their stance showed complete loyalty. Lucian walked forward, his black and red robes flowing with each step, the silver embroidery shining in the sunlight. His dark, glossy hair caught the light, adding to his striking appearance. His tall frame looked even taller from behind, his shoulders straight and confident. He raised his hand, and the murmurs from the crowd died down instantly. When he spoke, he used an amplified spell for his voice to echo through the square. Citizens of Veyrin, he said. Youve heard of the events from the past week. My brother, Arzan Kellius, has fallen from grace. He has joined dark forces and burned an entire village under Baron Idrins protectionall over a petty land dispute. Gasps swept through the crowd. Lucians face grew stern. Are the lives of common people so meaningless that they can be taken for such trivial reasons? Tell me! I think not. Through these acts, Arzan has shown his true nature to all of Lancephila madman and a tyrant who must be stopped. He paused, letting his words sink in, then smiled faintly as the crowds unease grew. I know many of you still think of him as a hero, the one who fought the beast wave. I once believed in him too. I prayed to Goddess Lumaris for his strength so that he could serve our nation. But now I see the truth: his strength, the beast waveit was all a deception, a scheme to seize power. And now, his true nature is clear for all to see. He is evil, inside and out, as I am sure youve realized. Lucians voice grew stronger, full of certainty. I will not stand by while he slaughters innocents. Ruberts heart raced as Lucians words rang in the air. His breath hitched in his throat as he looked back and forth between the people that had known this moment would come. He had tried to stop the young lord, begging him to reconsider. But Lucian was resolute, unwavering, and further argument would have cost Rubert his life. Now, standing among the crowd outside the castle, he felt itd have been better if he wasnt alive to see this inhuman manipulation. And so, I will march, Lucian announced, his amplified voice booming across the square, leading the noble houses of the Sylvan Enclavethose who refuse to allow evil to rise in our lands. Together, we will bring my brother to trial and deliver justice to Baron Idrin and the countless souls he has destroyed. Will you join me? At first, only a few voices from the crowd called out, Yes! But soon, Rubert noticed servants from the castle, hidden among the citizens, raising their voices with enthusiasm. Their cries of support grew louder and louder, pushing aside any hesitation and whipping the crowd into a frenzy. Before long, the square echoed with chants of approval, as Lucians call for justice took hold. S~ea??h the novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Ruberts chest tightened. He knew better than to believe Lucians righteous facade. Every word of that speech was crafted to deceive, painting Arzan as a villain to justify the coming bloodshed. Yet, to the gullible commoners, the lies didnt matter. Sometimes, the appearance of righteousness was enough. But Rubert understood what this meant for the peopleespecially the ordinary citizens swept up in this illusion. A fief war was never swift, and even if Arzan were outnumbered, his resilience against the beast wave proved he wouldnt go down easily. The conflict would drag on, leaving destruction in its wake. And all these people who were willing to support Lucian? Forced conscription. Anyone capable of holding a weapon would be dragged to the battlefield. Even boys barely old enough to be called men would be sent to fight, their lives sacrificed as pawns for nobles who cared nothing for them. Rubert frowned, his gaze sweeping the crowd one last time before he turned to leave. He needed to get away, to clear his mind. He knew it was futilehow could anyone dissociate from something this vast, this inevitable? But he had to try. As he pushed through the throng, a hand gripped his shoulder. Rubert froze, a voice cutting through the noise. Its so unfair, isnt it? That the crowd doesnt even know who the real evil is. Rubert turned, his heart skipping a beat as he saw the man addressing him. He was of average height but carried himself with a confidence that belied his modest frame. His brown hair was unkempt, curling in uneven tufts and marking him as a foreigner. His clothes were simple, yet they seemed deliberately chosen to avoid attention. Rubert looked down to take any hints of who this man was. What do you know? Rubert asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Enough, the man replied, his tone light but laced with meaning. For one, it wasnt Count Arzan who killed those villagers. The whole thing is a setupa ploy to spark a fief war. But then, when have humans at the top ever been able to sit still without dragging the rest of us into their petty power games? He leaned closer, his voice dropping. The common people will bleed while they argue over who gets to wear the bigger crown. Ruberts hands clenched at his sides. Something about the mans presence felt off. It wasnt just his words, sharp and accurate as they were. It was the way he spoke to Rubert, as though he already knew himas though they had met before. I feel like you share my sentiment, he added, his smirk softening into a knowing expression. Rubert hesitated but eventually gave a slow nod. There was a weight in his chest, a nagging certainty that he knew far more than he let on. And that, somehow, this man was far more dangerous than he appeared. Should he even be talking to him? He didnt know. "How do you know all this?" he asked, keeping his voice low to avoid drawing attention. The stranger''s smirk didnt waver. I have my sources, he replied cryptically. He turned his gaze toward the crowd, his expression momentarily softening as he watched the citizens chanting Lucians name, unaware of the storm brewing over their heads. Wouldnt it be great if all of them could survive whats coming? Rubert exhaled sharply, glancing at the sea of faces. Of course it would, he said, his voice tinged with bitterness. But thats not in my hands. Its in the hands of Duke Kellius, and no onenot me, not anyonecan talk him out of this. Actually, it might be in your hands. Rubert stiffened, turning to face the man fully. What are you talking about? The man shrugged, gesturing casually to the castle looming above them. Not stopping the warthats already begun, and nothing can change that now. But theres something you can do to shorten it. A short war means fewer lives lost, and things can return to normal sooner. How can I do that? I''m powerless. The man met his gaze. Ill explain it to you and no, you aren''t as powerless as you think, he said, his voice lowering as the noise of the crowd swelled around them. He extended a hand. But first, let me introduce myself properly. My name is Ansel, and I lead a group called the Watchers. *** Footsteps echoed in the silent corridor as Amyra approached her destination. The steady rhythm of her steps contrasted with the muffled shouts of guards training outside. Usually, their drills carried a disciplined cadence, but today, there was an undeniable fervor in the air, a tension that made her pause briefly by a window to glance outside. She didnt need to ask whythe entire castle was abuzz with it. Word had spread like wildfire: Duke Lucian Kellius, the brother of Lord Arzan, had declared a fief war, seeking to wrest Veralt and Verdis from his sibling''s control. Amyra didnt know the finer details, only snippets overheard from the maids gossip. But even those fragments painted Lucian as a villainous figure, a man willing to stoop to any low for power. One of those bad people who just wanted to push and push until theres nothing left but himself. Still, Amyra shrugged those thoughts aside. She had faith in Lord Arzan. He was strongshe had seen it firsthandand she believed he would rise to meet this challenge, as he always did. Yet, as she continued walking, her worry wasnt about the war or the chaos it would bring. Her concern lay in the conversation she was about to have. Since Lord Arzans return, he had been preoccupied with war preparations, strategizing late into the night with Francis and Killian. Their paths hadnt crossed, but she knew it was only a matter of time. He would ask her the question she had managed to dodge before. But would she try to avoid it again? Amyra hated revisiting her past, hated dredging up the memories she had buried deep. But at the same time, she knew she couldnt keep running from them, especially not from people who had shown her nothing but kindness and trust. Theyd helped her, made her a part of who they were, and if she had to move forward, she knew that she had to face her past. There was no one way one could hope for the future, all the while carrying dirty baggage; they should drop it somewhereand maybe, this was her chance. Her hands tightened into fists as she reached her destination, her heart pounding in her chest. The moment had come. Without hesitating further, she raised her hand and knocked on the heavy wooden door. A familiar voice called out from the other side of the door. Amyra hesitated for a heartbeat before pushing it open, stepping into the room. Lord Arzan and Killian were bent over a large map spread across a table, deep in discussion. Both looked up as she entered. Arzans expression softened, a smile forming on his face as he straightened. Its good to see you, Amyra, he said warmly, gesturing to a chair nearby. Please, sit. His gaze lingered on her for a moment, assessing. You look better. Im glad you were able to wake up. Ive been worried. Amyra lowered her head slightly, a pang of guilt threading through her chest. Im sorry to have worried you. she felt her eyes tearing up. You dont need to apologize. Lord Arzan waved her words away. Whatever you did that day on the battlefield saved countless lives. If anything, its me who should be thanking you. She glanced up at him, startled by the sincerity in his voice, but then his tone shifted, more thoughtful now. That being said, he continued, I have to admitwhat I heard about that day, about what you did, isnt something Ive ever seen or even heard of before. At first, I thought it might have been some specialized spell, something particularly effective against creatures infused with dead mana. But to annihilate so many of them at once He shook his head. Thats not something that can be done at your level, and Im sure you know that. Amyras throat tightened, but she nodded slowly. Yes Im aware. Arzan leaned back slightly, his expression still kind, but now tinged with curiosity. Then, if youre able, Id like to understand. What happened that day? And more importantly you, Amyra. I would like to know about you. She stiffened at the question, and he quickly raised a hand in reassurance. Of course, if you dont want to talk about it, I wont press. Id never hold it against you. But with the times ahead, any informationeven something smallmight help us. Anything you can share could be a boon. For a moment, the room was silent save for the noise of activity beyond the walls. Amyras fingers clenched in her lap as she wrestled with the decision. Finally, she nodded. I dont mind talking about it. Ive been preparing myself to tell you since I walked here. She hesitated, her voice quiet but firm as she continued. But I need your word. Both of you. Swear to me that what I share will not leave this room. Arzans eyes locked with hers, his expression solemn. You have my word, Amyra. Whatever you say here will stay between us. Killian, standing tall and silent beside the map, inclined his head. I swear it as well. Amyra let out a slow, measured breath, the weight of their assurances steadying her nerves. Silence stretched between them as she gathered her thoughts. When she finally spoke, her voice was low, tinged with a reluctance borne of painful memories. If I need to explain what I did back then, she began, then I have to tell you about my clan. She paused, the words lodging in her throat for a moment before she forced them out. It started *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. By the way, we crossed 8k followers. Thank you so much! - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 170. Girl of the White Woods Kais gaze rested on Amyra as she sat across from him. Since the day they met, she had been a puzzlean enigma wrapped in beauty and mystery. His mind often drifted to her, picking apart the pieces of what little he knew. Her appearance alone was enough to spark curiosity. She wasnt just beautiful in the way most would describe itthere was something otherworldly about her, something that seemed to transcend human standards. Her inhumanly perfect features, the soft glow of her skin, and those piercing eyes that seemed to hold a lifetime of wisdom. And yet, her appearance was only the beginning. From the moment they entered the necromancers lair, Amyra had stood apart. Dead mana, a force that corrupted all life, had no effect on her. Where others struggled, she was untouched by its decay. And then there was her genius-level aptitude for magic. One he had never seen before in anyone else. He thought back to the battlefield, to the accounts of her unleashing her powers. Dozens of dead mana fiends had been obliterated, their wretched forms wiped out in an instant. It had all been swallowed by a bright golden light. It wasnt a spell he''d heard of, nor one that seemed possible for a Mage of her supposed level. At every step of knowing her, his curiosity deepened. Who was she? Was she the daughter of a Magus, perhaps even one of a Grand Magus? Or maybe a hybrida rare mix of human Mage and elf blood? Or was she something else entirely? The questions buzzed in his mind, tantalizingly close to an answer that always seemed just out of reach. Part of him suspected that the truth was already there, lurking in the edges of his thoughts, but he refused to reach for it. Not yet. He needed proof, something tangible to connect the dots. Now, as Amyra began to speak, he felt his chest tighten, a sense of anticipation mingling with tension. Whatever she was about to say, it would change everything. But outwardly, he kept his expression calm, listening intently. Amyras soft voice came. I grew up in a place far from here, she began. A place with no name. We just called it home. Kai leaned forward slightly, his curiosity mounting. It was in the heart of a forest, she continued, a vast stretch of tall, white woods that seemed to go on forever. That was where my clan lived, where we built our sanctuary. It was our home for two generations. She paused, her eyes distant, as if seeing the woods again in her mind. But what came out of her mouth next surprised Kai. In my clan, everyone had access to magic. His eyes widened, and for a moment, he couldnt hide his surprise. A clan where everyone was a Mage? That was unheard of. Even among the famous Mage lineages, not everyone possessed the gift. There were always exceptions. And yet, here she was, claiming her entire clan had magic. He held his tongue, knowing there would be time for questions later. Amyras voice softened. I wasnt the daughter of the chief, nor was my family anything special. In the clan, we were simple Mages, living and waiting for our purpose to reveal itself. Killian, who had been silent until now, frowned slightly. Your purpose? he asked, his voice laced with curiosity. Amyra nodded at Killians question, but the movement was slow and deliberate, as though her mind was piecing together the right words. After a moments pause, she spoke again. In my clan, she began, her voice softer now, there was a long-standing prophecy. It was said that we had been gifted magic to prepare us for a time when the world would fall into darkness, a time when fiends would rise and threaten to consume everything. The story was passed down through generations, told every year during our gatherings. Without a beat, Kai and Killian listened intently, their faces impassive, but Kais mind was racing. A prophecy tied to an entire clan of Mages? The implications were enormous, and the tone of Amyras voice hinted at tragedy. She exhaled deeply, her golden eyes lost in memory. But where we livedsurrounded by towering white trees, shielded by natures gracewe saw no fiends. There were beasts, yes, but they were nothing unusual. There were no signs of dead mana or darkness, so I always assumed it was just that: a story. A fairy tale meant to remind us of the importance of our gifts, to stand against these creatures. I believed that until reality slammed the truth in front of me. One day, without warning, fiends attacked our village. Her words hung in the air, and Kai tensed. When he looked to his side, he saw that Killians expression had darkened as well, but they both stayed silent, giving her space to continue. There were hundreds of them, she said, her voice trembling slightly. The weakest of them were Grade 3 and the strongest were of Grade 7. Their strength, their savageryit was unlike anything we had ever encountered. My clan fought with everything they had. Every Mage, every spell, every ounce of magic and yet, it wasnt enough. The fiends razed our village to the ground. Kais jaw tightened. The weight of her words pressed down on him, but he didnt interrupt. Amyras gaze fell to her hands, her fingers trembling slightly. While my clan fought for survival, my uncle followed my mothers command. He took me to the edge of the forest. He was one of the few who had ventured beyond our sanctuary before, so he knew the way. I didnt want to leave, but he forced me to go. He told me someone needed to livesomeone who could carry on the clans magic, someone who hadnt yet gone through their awakening. Her voice cracked slightly, and she turned to look out the window. The tears in her eyes shimmered in the soft light, but she didnt let them fall. I ran, she said quietly. I ran because I had no choice. I wanted to go back, to fight alongside my family, my clan. But I had no spells. I was powerless. And my uncles last words to me were to keep running. So I did. Kai and Killian exchanged a glance, their expressions solemn. Neither spoke, knowing Amyra needed this moment. I ran until I reached the human cities, she continued, her voice steadier now. I tried to blend in, but it was hard. I was just a child, with no food, no strength, and no idea how to survive. I lived on the streets for a year, clinging to the hope that someone from my clan would come looking for me. That maybe the attack hadnt killed them all. Her voice faltered, and she shook her head slightly. But that hope died with each passing day. And eventually, I decided to keep moving. To run not just from the fiends, but from my own thoughts, my own memories. She paused, her hands trembling once more. What I hadnt realized was how cruel the world could be. On the road, I was kidnapped by a slave trader. Killian stiffened at her words, and Kais expression hardened, but Amyra pressed on. He put me in a cage like an animal, she said. Kai noticed her tightened jaw and squared shoulders. He taught me how to serve, how to be the perfect product to sell. He wouldnt let anyone buy me unless they could pay his price. To him, I was precious property because of how I looked. Her hands curled into fists, but she forced herself to continue. For what felt like an eternity, I stayed with him, waiting for the day he would finally sell me. But that day never came. Amyra lifted her gaze, her golden eyes meeting Kais. One day, the necromancer found him. The trader tried to bargain with him, but he refused to sell me. So the necromancer killed him and took me instead. As Amyra''s words trailed off, everything else fell into silence. She had shared the most painful parts of herself, the years of torment, the hopelessness, and the strength it took just to keep moving forward. Kai stood still, his heart heavy, his mind struggling to process everything she had said. So, he did what he could. He stood up and hugged her. *** At that moment, Amyras tears began to fall, unnoticed by her at first. The painful memories came back crushing down on her. No matter how she tried to explain it, there werent enough words to suffice how cruel it was. It was all too consumingsoul shattering. Soon, she felt the warmth of an embrace wrap around her. Lord Arzan had moved to her side, his arms surrounding her in a gesture of comfort. She froze for a moment, surprised by the sudden closeness, before the floodgates of her emotions opened fully. She didnt pull awayshe didnt know if she could. Instead, she let herself fall into his arms, finally allowing herself to feel the kindness and care she had long been denied. His voice was a gentle murmur against the top of her head as he held her tight. Thank you for telling me everything. I know it was hard for you. The words were soft, sincere, and something about them made Amyra realize how much she needed them. She had tried to hold it all in for so long, and now it was as though the weight of her past had been partially lifted, shared with someone who didnt judge her for abandoning her clan. Her hand went to her face, trying to swipe away the tears that had started falling. She hadnt even realized how much she was crying until his arms were still around her, offering her silent support. Her shoulders shook for a moment more before she took a deep breath and finally managed to pull herself together. Lord Arzan didnt immediately release her. He kept holding her for a while, as if giving her the space to recover, to gather herself again. Eventually, she pulled back, wiping her eyes and looking up at him. Her face was still flushed from the tears, but she met his gaze with a quiet resolve. You have questions, right? she asked, her voice still trembling slightly, though she was trying to regain her composure. He nodded, his expression gentle but curious. Yes, I have a lot of them, he admitted. But I wont overwhelm you with them. I just want to ask one thing for now. Amyra straightened slightly, her brow furrowing, bracing herself for another question that might bring up old pain. She had already said so much, but she owed him this answerhe had been there, after all, saving her life and giving her a new place to call home. She could tell he had been waiting for this question. I just want to know, he continued softly, Why didnt dead mana affect you? Amyra took a deep breath, her thoughts going back to the forest, the spells her clan had placed on her soul, the years of confusion about her own identity. She closed her eyes for a moment, gathering her thoughts before speaking. Its because my whole clan is like that, she explained quietly. I dont know why. Its not something we ever understood completely. But dead mana has never affected us. Its as if we were born with a natural resistance to it. Thats why our purpose was always to stand against the threat of dead mana when it would finally arrive. Despite that, we fell against its overwhelming power when the fiends arrived. Even with our resistance, no one in my clan was strong enough to take on a Grade 7 fiend. Her voice faltered slightly as the memories of her clan and their purpose washed over her again. The spell I used during the beast wave she paused, looking at Killian with a slight sadness in her eyes. It wasnt a spell in the truest sense. It was something my clan inscribed on my soul long before I even understood what it was meant to be. It was a safeguard, designed in case of a fiend attack. A way to survive, to fight back when no other option remained. She took a deep breath, releasing it slowly as her gaze shifted to the ground. All of us in the clan have something similar. A spell, a mark, an inscription on our souls that connects us to our purpose. *** Kal blinked in stunned silence, his mind racing to process everything Amyra had shared. His thoughts whirled, trying to connect the dots between what he had suspected and what he now knew for certain. A Mage who could withstand dead manathis was unprecedented, a phenomenon that had eluded research for centuries. He had seen the proof of her resistance in the beast wave and when he had retrieved her from the necromancer, but hearing it directly from Amyra put everything into an entirely different perspective. He knew the theories, the years of research that had been undertaken, all the failed experiments and the countless lives lost in attempts to study dead mana and its effects. Mages had tried to infuse themselves with it, but those who succeeded were corrupted, twisted into something no longer human. They became weavers, horrific creatures that thrived on the very thing that destroyed so many others. The research had gone nowhere, stunted by the dangers, by the dead mana itself, and by the sacrifices made in its pursuit. But now, standing in front of him, was someone who was living proof that it was possible to survive it. Amyra was a paradox, a mystery. How did it work? What made her different from all the others? And more importantly, could they replicate it? Could they somehow find a way to protect others, to harness this anomaly, and perhaps even use it to their advantage without giving away their humanity? His mind buzzed with questions, each one more pressing than the last. His thoughts flickered to the elders warnings, to what Elder Valeirith had said about his destiny as the Fatebreaker. The words echoed in his mind, that hed change many lives as the Fatebreaker. Amyra was proof of that. If he hadn''t made the decisions he did, if he hadn''t become Lord Arzan, she would have diedperhaps the last person alive who could resist the corruption of dead mana. The weight of that thought pressed down on him. He had been blind to the significance of his actions, to the magnitude of what had been set into motion. But now, everything was different. With Amyra alive, they had a chance. Sarch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kal looked down at Amyra, a complex mix of gratitude and urgency in his gaze. He wanted to know more, to understand the full extent of her connection to the resistance against dead mana, to uncover the secrets of her clan and the mysteries of her body. But time wasnt on his side. There was a war brewing in his territory, a war that required his full attention. Every second spent here was a second closer to the chaos he had to manage. His territory, his people, needed him now more than ever. "Thank you for telling me everything," he said softly, his voice sincere. "I know it was difficult, but youve given me so much to think about. You can rest now. I want to talk more about this, but right now, something else demands my attention." Amyra nodded, her shoulders tense as if the trouble of her past and the revelation she had just shared had drained the strength from her. She was quiet for a long moment before looking up at him again. "With your brother?" she asked. "Yes," he said, "He''s attacking my lands, trying to take over it. Its... complicated. And theres no time to waste." He hesitated, his gaze softening. "But thats not something for you to worry about right now." Amyras brows furrowed, and she leaned forward slightly. "Can I help? Like last time?" Kals heart twisted at the thought of putting her back into harms way. He knew she had already proven herself in the beast wave, but this was different. This wasnt just about surviving; it was about protecting something none of them could afford to lose. "No, Im sorry," he said firmly, though his voice softened with regret. "Youre too precious to be anywhere near a war. Youll stay here, and Ill assign an Enforcer to guard you." Amyra opened her mouth as if to protest, but Kai raised a hand to gently silence her. He took a step closer, looking at her. "Please understand," he continued, his voice serious but gentle, "your ability... it could change everything for for the world. I cant risk losing you. I need you to stay here, safe." "As for the war," he added, "this time, Im not as worried as I was during the beast wave. Weve prepared well. We have the forces, the strategies, and the resources to handle this. Its not like before. There''s no doubt we are going to win this." *** Drennan, one of the guards on duty stood tall on the walls of Verdis, his boots steady on the stone battlements as he gazed out over the vast expanse of the grasslands. The winds whispered across the plains, rustling the tall grasses. Above him, the stars dotted the sky in a blanket of dots, the moon casting its silvery light over the land. It was late, but the city below was far from asleep. Even in the dead of night, half the city was awake, and the streets were alive with movement. Guards patrolled the walls, merchants hurried through alleys, and citizens lingered in the open spaces, their conversations coming in hushed whispers. Everyone was scared. News of the fief war had spread quickly, and tensions were high. Duke Lucian Kellius against his own brother, Lord Arzan, Count of Verdis. The rumors had spread like wildfire, each one more absurd than the last, but the guard didnt let himself get caught up in them. He had seen the lord in personhow he stormed Verdis with his knights, how he had spared the enemy guards who had surrendered. The image of the man had been that of a god, a warrior leading his blessed followers with honor. Since then, under his leadership, the city had flourished. New construction projects, infrastructure improvements, and a sense of purpose in the air had filled the people with a reverence for their lord that hadnt been there before. Whispers might float through the streets, but the guard knew one thing for sure: those rumors werent going to shake the truth of what he had witnessed firsthand. As he turned to check the perimeter once more, his gaze swept over the citys streets below. Guards were moving about, some pausing to exchange quick words while others made their rounds. The sound of a yawn broke his thoughts, and he glanced to his left where Torric, a young guard who had only been stationed in Verdis for a few months, stretched his arms lazily. "Ugh, Im so sleepy," Torric muttered, rubbing his eyes. "I have to do this till morning? This is brutal." Drennan shot him a sharp look, his gaze flicking toward the horizon where the dark shapes of distant mountains loomed. "You should keep your eyes open," he said. "We dont know when the attack will come." Torric chuckled, slinging his spear over his shoulder as he leaned back against the wall. "Do you really think itll start so soon?" He waved a hand dismissively. "I believe any noble would be dumb to start a war with these bad boys here," he said, gesturing proudly toward the newly installed mana cannons. Drennan followed Torrics gesture with a raised eyebrow, his gaze settling on the gleaming mana cannons positioned strategically on the walls. They were a formidable sightmassive, arcane weapons designed to tear through any enemy forces that dared approach. And the hum of magic that radiated from them was a reassuring reminder of the power that Verdis now held. "Yeah," Drennan muttered, though his tone held a certain edge. "But were not just waiting on them to do all the work. Well have to be ready for anything." Torric nodded, though the skepticism still lingered in his eyes. "I suppose. But still, its not every day you see something like this. Count Arzans got the city well defended." He didnt respond immediately, his gaze drifting back to the horizon. The stillness of the night was deceptive. The war, the tensionit was all an undercurrent, something that hadnt fully surfaced yet but was coming closer, like the storm before the rain. The guard glanced at the mana cannons once more, a quiet pride swelling in his chest. He and Torric had both heard of their powereveryone in the city had. They had even witnessed a demonstration a few weeks ago when a small group of bandits had attempted to raid the outskirts of Verdis. The cannons had obliterated the attackers within moments, their mana-infused bolts ripping through flesh and stone alike. It had been a display of raw power, one that cemented Lord Arzans reputation as a ruler who would not be easily threatened. The sheer magnitude of the weapon was enough to instill a sense of confidence in even the most hardened soldier. Yet, as Torric yawned and began to relax, the older guard''s mind remained sharp. The war wasnt won yet. He needed to be vigilant, not lulled into a false sense of security by the impressive defenses around them. "Even then, we need to" Drennan began, but his words trailed off as his eyes caught something in the distance, something small but significant in the dark expanse of the night sky. A shadow flitted against the backdrop of stars, a silhouette that seemed too deliberate to be natural. He squinted, trying to focus, to make out the shape more clearly. Was it a bird? A trick of the light? It was too high up, too fast. "Hey, whats wrong?" Torric asked, noticing his sudden stillness. "What are you looking at?" "Its nothing," Drennan muttered, shaking his head quickly. "I just saw something in the sky. Do you think we should inform the captain?" Before Torric could reply, a sudden flash of movement caught his attentionso fast it was nearly a blur. It was too quick for the eye to track, and before he could even react, Torric dropped to the ground with a sickening thud. Blood sprayed in an arc, splattering across the stone walls as his eyes widened in horror. Torric''s stomach had been ripped open, a hole so deep and gaping that the scent of iron immediately filled the air. "Shit!" Drennan shouted, fumbling for his sword, his heart pounding in his chest. He reached for the healing potion, tearing open the vial with shaking hands as he scrambled to his fallen comrade. With desperation in his voice, he muttered, "Hold on, hold on, just hold on..." But before he could apply the potion, a chilling sense of danger crawled up his spine. He froze, eyes widening as something moved atop the wall, silhouetted against the dark sky. He could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end as a low, unsettling sound reverberated from the creature. There, perched with terrifying grace, was something he would never forget. It was a creature out of nightmare, its form sleek and sinewy, humanoid yet distorted, like something caught halfway between life and death. Its pale skin was nearly translucent, veins black and pulsing beneath, and its eyesthose bloody red eyesgleamed with an unnatural hunger, a cold malevolence that seemed to pierce through the darkness. It sat perched on the stone wall like a predator waiting to strike, claws curled into the stone beneath it, as if ready to leap at any moment. Drennans breath caught in his throat. He had been informed about these creatures once the news of the war had broken outnightmarish beasts capable of incredible speed and strength, able to drain a persons life force with their fangs. The Bloodrinkers were as elusive as they were deadly, and he had never expected to meet one like this. Just as the guard opened his mouth to shout, warning the city, something flashed through the aira glint of red that reflected the moonlight. Before he could react, a barrage of blood knivessleek and sharp as arrowscame for him, cutting through the air. Instinctively, he rolled to the side, narrowly dodging the blades as they tore into the stone wall behind him. His heart raced in his chest as he grabbed the healing potion once more, yanking the cork off and tossing it toward his fallen comrade. The liquid splashed across the wound, but he barely had time to hope it would work before another flash of movement split the air. The attack wasnt aimed at him. It wasnt aimed at Torric either. It was aimed at the mana cannons. A moment later, the sound of a deafening explosion shook the air. The force of it rattled the walls, sending chunks of stone crumbling down as the powerful weapons were blasted apart, their mana-saturated cores erupting in a fiery display of destruction. Drennan felt the blasts shockwave ripple through him, knocking him back, but he clung to the ledge, his heart racing as he turned to see what the fuck just happened. The Bloodrinker was still on top of the wall, its eyes flashing with cruel delight as the last of the mana cannons were silenced. And as the dust settled, the guards chest tightened in realization. "Were under attack." His shout rang through the night, cutting through the panic that had begun to spread. "Enemies! Enemies are here!" he called, his voice hoarse as he struggled to his feet. Just like that, the battle of Verdis started. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. PS - I have seen comments becoming less in the last three chapters. Is there a reason behind it? Or it''s just people trying to stock chapters before reading. If it''s something in the story, I would love to know what it is. - Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 171. Battle of Verdis (1) Feroys urgent and hasty steps carried him through the streets, crunching against the cobblestones sharp in the tense silence of the night. His breath came in measured bursts as he pushed himself forward. Three guards flanked him, their eyes darting from shadow to shadow as they moved through the deserted streets. The news of the attack on the walls had spread like a wildfire, and the fear in the atmosphere could be felt by everyone. The entire city had gone into curfew. Not a soul dared step out into the streets. Doors were slammed shut, windows sealed tight, and the quiet was broken only by the movements of the guards. The city felt suffocating, as if everyone was expecting something terrible to happen. The destruction of the mana cannons on the wall had only made things worse. Feroy could feel it, the incoming doom. As he neared the outer walls, the scene unfolded before him in grim detail. Fuck, he muttered to himself as he saw a portion of the wall that had crumbled. Blood stained the grounds, mixing with the pieces of the destroyed cannons. Feroys heart clenched as he took in the scene. His pace quickened, and the guards following him did the same, their swords drawn, ready for whatever lay ahead. As he approached the area, he saw a group of guards standing around a bleeding man, tending to his wounds. Feroy didnt pause for long. His gaze, however, lingered briefly on the body covered by a cloth beside the wounded man. He didnt let himself dwell on the body for long. There was no time for that. His focus shifted back to the guard who was still alive. He racked his brain trying to recall his name when it finally clicked and he knelt beside him. Can you talk, Drennan? The man''s eyes fluttered open, and he nodded weakly, his voice strained. Yes, Knight Feroy... I can talk... He tried to lift himself, wincing in pain, but Feroy placed a hand on his shoulder, gently but firmly urging him to stay down. No, dont try to move, Feroy commanded. Youre wounded, but we need to know what happened. Drennan took a sharp breath, grimacing as he lay back, his face pale but his lips tightened as he spoke. I was on the wall, doing my usual patrol, when I saw something, the guard began, his voice shaking. A creature... dark, almost... like it was made of shadows and blood. Ive never seen anything like it. It was fast. Before I could shout a warning, it... it killed Torric. Just like that. One strike and he lay bloodied. Then it attacked again. I thought it wanted to kill me, so I dodged, but the attack moved past me to hit the mana cannons. They didnt stand a chance. I tried to reach for my horn, to signal for help, but by the time I did, the creature had already run off. It was too late, Knight Feroy. Feroy placed his hand on the Drennans shoulder, trying to ease some pain, but the man''s expression didn''t change. He sighed while his brain processed everything he had been told, particularly the part about the creature. Blood drinker Drennan nodded slowly, his eyes clouded with guilt. Yes, Knight Feroy, it was dark, but... the description fits the information we were given. I couldnt do anything. His voice broke as he glanced down at his falled partner. Im sorry... I failed. Feroy squeezed the mans shoulder. You dont need to apologize. No ordinary guard would have survived such an assault. You did. And that speaks to your skill. As for your partner... I will make sure his sacrifice isnt in vain. Feroys eyes hardened as he gazed at the covered body. Ill make sure we honor his memory. As Feroy spoke, a distant sound caught his attention. The rhythmic clatter of wheels against stone echoed in the quiet night, growing louder as it approached. The guards around him stiffened, their hands instinctively reaching for their weapons. Feroy turned toward the sound, his eyes narrowing as a carriage rolled to a stop at the base of the wall. The door opened, and out stepped a familiar face, Zorgar. I heard about it, Zorgar said, his voice cutting through the silence. The mana cannons were destroyed. He glanced over at the ruined wall and the bloodied ground. Feroy nodded sharply. Not just that, he said, his tone clipped. The walls were breached. We have to prepare for worse. Zorgar nodded. Well have Earth Mages here soon to help with the repairs. Lord Arzan sent a few yesterday, and theyre raring to do something. Ive already informed the Enforcers and Mages to be on guard. Our enemies should be on our doorstep any minute. At the mention of enemies, Drennan looked up, his eyes wide with disbelief. Enemies? Feroys gaze hardened. Yes. Our scouts reported that Baron Idrins army is moving to capture Verdis. Theyve likely been planning this for some time. We need to get the citys defenses ready. This is only the beginning. "From what we know, Baron Idrin has mustered around a thousand men to storm the castle. A dozen Mages, aided by these blood drinkersthose damnable creatureswill be leading the charge," Zorgar said and huffed. Feroys gaze remained focused, his mind calculating the next steps. But as Zorgar finished speaking, Drennan turned to them with a look of deep regret. "Im so sorry about the mana cannons," Drennan said and shook his head regretfully. "I was on the wall. I shouldve made sure they were safe. Because of me, were going to lose more men trying to defend. We were counting on them, and now" Feroy cut him off with a raised hand. "You dont need to apologize. It wasnt your fault. You did your duty, and thats all anyone could ask for." But Drennan''s gaze flickered between Feroy and Zorgar, confusion flickering in his eyes. The two men stood together, seemingly at ease, even as the enemy loomed at the citys gates. "But the mana cannons they were destroyed, and we have the enemy at the gates. More men are going to die to save the city, Knight Feroy. How can you both be so calm?" Feroy smiled faintly, his eyes narrowing in a focused, determined look. "We anticipated this," he said simply. "Well, I should say, Lord Arzan did. Hes always several steps ahead. It was only natural for the enemy to target the mana cannons. Everyone knows about them, and with the blood drinkers in their ranks, it was clear they''d try to take them out firstespecially considering their ability to fly and attack under the cover of darkness." Drennan''s eyes widened in realization. "So what does that mean?" Before Feroy could answer, Zorgar stepped forward, his tone matter-of-fact. "It means we were ready. Two days ago, in the dead of night, we replaced the mana cannons with decoys. The ones that were destroyed? They were nothing but worthless fakes." Drennan blinked, his breath catching. "What? But they were" "On the wall as cover. You can''t do anything with them. The only reason they exploded was because they had explosive potions inside of them," Feroy finished. "And now, the enemy has no idea. They think theyve crippled us, but in reality, theyve played right into our hands. Its only a matter of time before they realize their mistake." Drennans shoulders sagged in relief. He let out a long breath, finally being able to release the tension hed been holding in since hed first realised the destruction that had happened. But before the relief could fully settle in, a sharp cry cut through the air, coming from one of the guards stationed on the walls above. "I see an army on the horizon. Theyre on the move!" Feroys eyes sharpened, and he turned toward the direction of the call. He exchanged a brief glance with Zorgar, who nodded in agreement. The time for hesitation had passed. The city was ready, and now it was up to them to teach their would-be invaders a lesson they would never forget. "Prepare the men. Were not just defending Verdiswere going to make sure they understand why they shouldnt have come here in the first place." With that, Feroy began to stride toward the gathering forces. Baron Idrin had no idea what awaited him. *** Baron Idrin stood in the shadow of his forces, his eyes locked on the faint silhouette of Verdis in the distance. A thin, wraith-like outline against the darkening sky. The city, once a thorn in his side, was now ripe for the taking. He had fought tooth and nail for control over one of its villages, desperate to claim its mines. But now, the stakes were higher, and victory would mean so much more. Duke Kellius had promised him this, and assured him that Verdis would fall into his hands once Count Arzan was crushed under their combined power. Now, he could almost taste the triumph in the air as his plans came to fruition. Sacrificing that small village had been a necessary cost, one he had been more than willing to make. The reward would be the entire cityits resources, its strategic value, and most importantly, its people. He smiled darkly at the thought of Arzans downfall. The citys new Count wouldnt stand a chance. The Duke had been right to trust in his abilities. Verdis would be his, and all of its secrets and riches would belong to him. His grin faltered slightly when a silhouette swooped down from the sky and landed beside him. The sudden motion in the stillness of the night sent a brief shiver down his spine, and for a split second, he nearly recoiled. But he quickly regained his composure, eyes narrowing in irritation as he turned to face the figure next to him. "I told you," Baron Idrin growled. "Stop coming up on me like that. Youre worse than a ghost." The blood drinker standing next to him, ignored his irritation and spoke in a voice that carried both calm and menace. "The preparations are complete. The mana cannons have been destroyed. I was seen by a guard who barely avoided my attack, so they should be on alert now. Baron Idrins lips curled into a smug sneer. "Im sure they must have gathered their forces already by now. But it doesnt matter," he muttered dismissively, waving a hand in the air. "Without their precious mana cannons, they wont be able to contest us. They have no strong Mages, and even if they did, we have the numbers and strength. This will be an easy victory." He looked back to where his forces stood, a carefully orchestrated formation of soldiers, mercenaries, and Mages. Their faces were steely with resolve, their weapons at the ready. Idrins eyes swept across the ranks, noting the hardened expressions of the men who followed himthe loyal soldiers eager for bloodshed and plunder, and the mercenaries who would do anything for the right price. And then there were the Mages sent by the famed Archine Tower. Mages whose power would give him a terrifying edge in this battle. But what really caught his eye were the blood drinkers standing at the front of the formation. There were two other than the one right besides him. The creatures were like living weapons, their mastery of the blood manipulation unparalleled. They were each as powerful as peak second-circle Mages, and they answered only to him. Idrins chest swelled with pride as he surveyed his forces. With his soldiers, Mages, and the blood drinkers under his command, he was unbeatable. There was no way they could lose now. Baron Idrin took one last sweeping glance across his assembled forces, his eyes gleaming with the fire of ambition. The hour of conquest was upon them, and he could feel the thrill of victory swelling within him. With his hand raised, he shouted into the crisp night air. "Listen well, all of you! Tonight, we charge forward with all the fury we''ve known, all the strength we''ve built, and all the vengeance we''ve held back for too long. Tonight, we seize Verdis, and we take it by the throat! No hesitation, no mercy! We will show Count Arzan and all who dare stand with him that his rule ends " Sar?h the n??el Fire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The soldiers around him straightened, their grips on their weapons tightening until knuckles turned white. Their eyes gleamed with a shared hungera thirst for victory that burned just as fiercely as the fire raging in his chest. He let their energy fuel him, spreading like wildfire through the crowd. "By sunrise," he continued, his voice rising like the first strike of a war drum, "Verdis will belong to us! And when it does, we will stand ready for Duke Kellius to drag that Arzan to the guillotine. His name will be forgotten, erased like the coward he is, and his city will kneel to us! The people of Verdis will finally see the truththat justice has come, that their torment ends here, tonight! The rule of tyranny falls, and it falls by our hands!" He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in, watching the soldiers nod in fierce agreement. "Are you ready to fight, to take what is ours?" "YES!" The chorus of their voices shook the air, and he could see the fire in their eyes, the unrelenting hunger for the coming battle. They were ready. They were united. Baron Idrin grinned, his heart pounding with the excitement of impending victory. He swung himself onto his horse, his eyes locking on the distant city that would soon be his. "Then lets take Verdis!" he shouted, his command a spark that set the forces into motion. The charge began. Idrin urged his horse forward, propelling himself into the beat. The loud sound of hooves echoed in his ears as his army followed suit, the ground beneath them trembling. The distant silhouette of Verdis grew larger with every stride, its walls looking like an obstacle before him. The anticipation clawed at his chest. As they closed the distance, his thoughts raced. He could already picture itArzans lifeless body at his feet, the citys defenses shattered, his name etched in history as the one who brought down the tyrant. His seat as Count would be secure, granted by Duke Kellius, and with it, all the power hed ever dreamed of. No longer would he be a mere Baron, far from the capital, struggling to make his mark. He would be one of the rulers, standing at the very heart of the kingdom. The air around him thickened with the promise of triumph. But more than the power, more than the title, what drove him was the legacy. He would become the image of justicesomeone who''d destroyed a tyrant and given the people what they needed. The people would praise him, they would see him as their savior. In truth, Baron Idrin didn''t care what Arzan had done for the people of Verdis. He didnt care about the truth of the mans leadership. What mattered was the perception of him. The city would fall, Arzan would fall, and in the ashes, he would rise. Without the mana cannons, there was no way Arzan could defend his city. Even if the man had some clever tricks up his sleeve, it didnt matter now. Baron Idrin had planned for everything, and he would take Verdis without breaking a sweat. Soon enough, the forces slowed, their charge coming to a halt just outside the city gates. Baron Idrin looked up to the towering walls of Verdis, his gaze scanning the figures standing atop. A few of them looked back down at him, and his eyes narrowed. There, standing at the forefront, was the one man he needed to kill firstKnight Feroy. He had gathered all the intel on Feroys movements, his rank, his influence. If they took him down, the rest of the city would crumble. Feroys head would be the key that unlocked the gates to Verdis surrender. Idrin''s heart thrummed in his ears. This was the moment everything would change. With Feroy dead, the city would be theirs. And with it, the world would know that Baron Idrin was a force to be reckoned with. He raised his hand, signaling one of his Mages, and with a flick of the wrist, the Mage muttered an incantation. The air shimmered as the voice modification spell took effect, amplifying Idrins voice to carry far and wide. He called out, his voice booming over the silent expanse, filled with a mix of menace and false compassion. People of Verdis! he shouted, his eyes gleaming with cruel anticipation. I, Baron Idrin, am here to take the just revenge for the slaughter of my village, carried out by Count Arzans forces. I am sure by now, you all know the truth. The men guarding this city are responsible for the deaths of countless innocent lives. He paused for a moment, savoring the weight of his words, watching as the shadows on the walls shifted. But you still have a chance! If you open the gates and surrender now, I will spare you. I will not only spare you, but I will reward you for your compliance. Your survival is within your grasp. The barons gaze hardened as he turned to face Knight Feroys silhouette on the wall. And as for you, Knight Feroy, he sneered, I advise you to surrender. Theres nothing you can do. Your forces are pitiful compared to mine. You can try to fight, but Ill make your death quick. Its your choice. His words echoed in the still night, the silence that followed stretching longer than he anticipated. He narrowed his eyes, waiting for a sign, a responseanything. But there was nothing. No movement from the city below, no response from the soldiers atop the walls. His patience thinned as he glanced toward his forces, a frown pulling at his lips. Well then, he muttered to himself, irritation creeping into his voice. It seems Verdis isnt looking for the easy way out. His eyes glinted with dark amusement, the thrill of battle rising within him. Very well! We take it by force. With a final wave of his hand, he gave the order. Charge! His forces surged forward, the clang of weapons and the sound of boots pounding the earth filled the air as they moved towards the city gates. Ropes and ladders were hauled up, soldiers scaling the walls. The siege had begun. Baron Idrin grunted, a twisted sense of satisfaction settling in his chest as he watched the chaos unfold. But then, something caught his eye. A movement atop the wallssomething that didnt quite fit. At first, it was just a flicker, a figure moving quickly, but then he saw it clearly. It wasnt an archer or a soldier. No, this was something much more unusual. A man, standing at the far edge of the wall, began fitting a large mechanical device into place. Idrins heart skipped a beat, a chill running down his spine. His mind raced as he tried to make sense of what he was seeing, but the realization hit him like a slap right across his face. His eyes widened. They couldnt have rebuilt it so quickly, could they? Before he could process the thought, the device was locked into place. The figure operating it adjusted a few levers, and Idrins stomach dropped as he understood what was about to happen. NO! he shouted, his voice a mixture of disbelief and rage, but it was already too late. The beam of deadly light shot out from the device. For a brief moment, the world was blindedhis soldiers, his mercenaries, and even himselfall of them lost in the blinding light. He could hear the screams and the chaos as the beam tore through his ranks, the loud boom with the cries of dying men. His forces were caught in the blast, the shockwave scattering them like insects underfoot. What the fuck?! he screamed on top of his lungs. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Note - Magus Reborn Volume 1 is now on pre orders on Amazon with publishing by Aethon books. It will be stubbed for Volume 1 on April 22. I would be very happy if a few of you would be interested enough in checking it out on Amazon. - hi guys, I''m tc. i''d appreciate a follow if you''re enjoying magus reborn so far. if u want, u can read advanced chapters in our patreon and join the discord server to have a chat with us, I''ll drop the links down below :) Patreon for 15 chaps: /extra26 Discord: invite/nc3hVSCP2n 172. Battle of Verdis (2) The explosion shook the ground as if the earth itself groaned in pain. The blast painted the air with a terrifying display of raw power, light and heat flashing like the anger of a god. Screams tore through the battlefield, brief and haunting, as whole groups of soldiers vanished in a blink, their bodies burned to nothing. Steel armor and weapons melted into molten pools, glowing faintly as the echoes of destruction lingered. The mana cannons fired again, their combined roar deafening as their blasts tore through the enemy ranks, wiping out over a quarter of their forces in seconds. Feroy had seen the cannons beforeduring the beast wave, when they leveled entire hordes. But watching them used against humans was different. The destruction wasnt just terrifying; it was unnatural. It felt as if the cannons themselves were forged by the death god, designed to remind mortals of their frailty. Steel, spells, or numbersit didnt matter. In the face of this power, humans were little more than ash waiting to scatter. The enemy hesitated, their line broken and their confidence shattered. For a brief moment, silence hung over the chaosthen a sharp voice pierced through the noise. Scatter! Dont stay together! Spread out! The disorganized soldiers obeyed, their panic turning into desperate action. They scattered across the battlefield like startled ants, dodging the deadly precision of the mana cannons. Feroys gaze flicked toward Baron Idrin, whose face was pale and tense as he barked orders no one could hear. For a moment, their eyes met, and Feroy caught the unease in the barons expression before he turned back to the fight. Archers and gunners, fire! Feroy bellowed. A rain of arrows and mana blasts followed, arcing through the air with deadly accuracy. The scattered soldiers avoided the concentrated blasts of the cannons, but the storm of projectiles picked them off mercilessly. Those who thought themselves safe were struck down by the smaller mana guns Lord Arzan had developedsleek, portable versions of the devastating cannons. Each shot hit its mark, tearing through armor and flesh with horrifying precision. The battlefield quickly became a sea of blood, the cries of the wounded and dying filling the air. To sow even more chaos, the gunners targeted the horses. Panicked neighs echoed as the beasts collapsed, their riders thrown to the ground or crushed beneath trampling hooves. The scene turned chaotic as men fell, some crushed under their own stampeding animals. Arrows and blasts tore through the enemy ranks, thinning their numbers with every passing second. But Feroy knew the fight wasnt close to ending. His sharp eyes caught movement among Baron Idrins Mages. They stood in tight clusters, their hands weaving chaotic patterns in the air. In an instant, their chants bore fruitblades of wind sliced through the air, glowing spheres of flame arced toward the walls, and jagged spikes of earth erupted from the ground, throwing debris and bodies alike into the air. The battle raged on, chaos fueling chaos, with no sign of stopping. Earth Mages! Feroys voice thundered above the chaos. Defensive formations, now! The defenders snapped into action, the ground responding to their commands as walls of stone and sturdy barriers rose to intercept the incoming magic. Jagged wind blades shattered against reinforced earth, and fireballs fizzled out, smothered by thick stone shields. Yet, not all attacks could be stopped. Some broke through, slamming into the walls with deafening force. Archers collapsed, their arrows veering off course as they writhed in agony. Gunners dropped their weapons, succumbing to the searing heat of flame or the slicing fury of wind. Behind the lines, the recovery teams worked tirelessly. Priests clad in simple robes moved among the injured, their divine healing magic glowing softly as it mended flesh and sealed gaping wounds. Potion bearers hurried from one fallen defender to the next, pouring shimmering liquids into trembling hands. The defenders were able to hold on even though the chaos became relentless. The church healers from behind, wove healing chants towards the injured and broken, healing them almost instantly, using the power of their goddess. Feroy stood firm amidst the storm, his voice cutting through the roar of battle as he issued commands to every unit under his charge. His eyes darted across the battlefield, taking in every detailthe crumbling formations, the scattered enemies, and the flickering hope in his mens faces. The enemys numbers were dwindling, but they still pressed forward with desperation. Even so, Feroy felt ita certainty in his bones. Victory was within reach. But the price would be steep. His eyes narrowed, catching a flicker of ominous light among the enemy ranks. One of their Mages stood apart, hands glowing with a menacing aura. Feroy watched in dread as the ground beneath a cluster of enemy soldiers trembled, shifting unnaturally. What is His thought was cut short as the earth beneath the enemy burst upward with a surge of magic, propelling the group high into the air. They landed heavily on the walls walkways, sending shockwaves through the defenses. Chaos erupted instantly. The distance they had relied on to protect the walls was gone. Before the defenders could react, the enemy soldiers struck with ruthless precision. An archers scream was silenced as a blade pierced his chest. A gunner was thrown from the wall, his weapon spinning uselessly to the ground below. Shouts and cries filled the air as the defenders struggled to regain control. Feroys heart pounded as he assessed the breach. His gaze snapped to the enemy Earth Mages in the distance, their hands glowing as they prepared to launch another wave of soldiers onto the walls. He acted without hesitation, roaring to the cannon crews below, Focus fire on the enemy Mages! Stop them before they send more! Without hesitation, Feroy sprang back into action, turning to confront the invaders who had breached the walls. Five of them stood before him. The five tall men moved their weapons as if to show off, cutting and striking through the air. Their eyes burned with malicious intent as they charged him all at once. Feroy spun his spear, intercepting their advance and driving them back a few steps. But the narrow confines of the wall walkways left little room to maneuver, forcing him to rely on precise movements and his enhanced reflexes. The attackers moved in unison, coordinating their strikes one after another. Feroy ducked under a scything blade, twisted to parry another, and pivoted to avoid a thrust aimed at his side. The press of their numbers made it increasingly difficult to hold his ground. He considered summoning his flames, the magic pulsing in his core, eager to be unleashed. But the risk was too greatone misstep in these tight quarters, and he could harm his own defenders as much as the enemy. Just as one of the invaders raised his sword for a killing blow, a shout rang out behind Feroy. "Knight Feroy, well handle it!" A young man and woman rushed onto the walkway, their weapons flashing as they threw themselves into the fray. The man, wielding a longsword, charged headlong into the enemy formation. His companion followed close behind, her heavy axe carving through the air with killer force. The pair fought with practiced harmony, their movements perfectly synchronized. The man parried a blow meant for the woman, opening up an opportunity for her to swing her axe in a devastating arc. The men faltered under it, unable to keep up with the duos coordinated attacks. When the womans axe smashed through the defense of one attacker, the other struck the killing blow without hesitation, his longsword finding its mark. Feroy took the opportunity to turn his attention to the remaining two invaders. One lunged at him, a reckless attack that left the enemys stance wide open. Feroy ducked under the swing and countered with a quick thrust to the mans thigh, sending him stumbling. With a flick of his wrist, Feroys spear found its target again, ending the threat. The last invader hesitated, glancing at his fallen comrades. It was all the opening Feroy needed. He surged forward, delivering a precise, lethal strike that left the man crumpling to the ground. sea??h th NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The immediate threat neutralized, Feroy turned to the young duo who had aided him. The young man, Eron, stood tall and lean, his spiky brown hair disheveled from the fight. Sharp green eyes gleamed with confidence as he wiped his blade clean. His companion, Tiara, was shorter but sturdily built, her fiery red hair tied back in a braid that swung with every movement. Her blue eyes burned with the same fire that had fueled her strikes. Both had been found during Verdis desperate search for Enforcers, their raw talent quickly molded into capable fighters. But they hadnt unlocked their affinities yet. "Good work," Feroy said with a curt nod. "But stay on high alert. Youre both still just Grade 1." Eron grinned, his confidence undimmed. "Well be fine, Knight Feroy. These guys werent much of a challenge." Tiara smirked, resting her axe on her shoulder. "Yeah, weve got this." Feroy frowned, his expression hardening. "Dont be overconfident. We havent seen the blood drinkers yet." At the mention of the blood drinkers, the smirks faded from their faces. Erons grip on his sword tightened, and Tiaras fiery confidence dimmed, replaced by a cautious determination. "Well be ready," Eron said, his tone more measured. Feroy nodded. "Good. Get back to your positions and stay alert," Feroy commanded, his eyes scanning the battlefield below. They scrambled quickly. A thunderous explosion shook the walls. Feroy tightened his grip on his spear and turned his gaze back to the chaos. The battlefield was alive with destruction. Mana cannons fired relentlessly, their blinding blasts carving through enemy ranks and leaving smoldering craters. Mages hurled fire and ice with abandon, their spells painting the field in flickering light. Defensive barriers shimmered and cracked under the onslaught, the air vibrating with raw energy. Near the command post, Baron Idrin was a stark contrast to the chaos. His pale face was tight with fear, his posture rigid as he shouted orders no one could hear over the deafening cannons and clashing weapons. His eyes darted about, frantic and searching, his every movement betraying a man on the verge of fleeing. Feroy caught ita subtle shift of weight, a hesitant step back. Idrin was already testing his escape. "Eron! Tiara!" Feroys voice cut through the din like a blade. The duo, locked in combat with an enemy soldier, glanced up at once. He gestured toward the baron. "Watch him. If he runs, stop him." They exchanged a glance, swiftly finished their foe, and nodded with confidence. With them watching the baron, he could focus on more important parts of the battle. Before Feroy could take in more of the battlefield, a shiver ran down his spine. The air grew heavy, suffocating, like the moment before a predators strike. Instinct flaredsomething was coming. He spun sharply, narrowly avoiding the crimson blade that sliced through the air where his neck had been. The weapon had appeared from nowhere, like it had been born from the shadows themselves. Feroy staggered back, spear in hand, ready. Before him stood a creature from a nightmarea blood drinker. The dark creatures pale face twisted into a smug grin, his glowing crimson eyes alight with cruel hunger. The air around him seemed to ripple with menace. "You can turn invisible," Feroy said, his voice low, testing the waters. The drinker hissed, his fangs gleaming in the dim light as he perched unnaturally on the walls edge. "I didnt think youd dodge that. Impressive." His voice wasnt very pleasant to listen torough, grating and just annoying. Feroys muscles tensed, every fiber of him prepared for the next attack. There was no time for words. In the blink of an eye, the blood drinker lunged, a blur of liquid shadow aimed straight at him. His speed was unnatural, almost impossible. But desperation sharpened Feroys reflexes. He threw himself back, his spear snapping up just in time to meet the monsters advance. The spearhead gleamed in the moonlight, catching the creatures predatory gaze for a fraction of a second. Feroy held his ground, his weapon a barrier between him and the nightmare that sought to end him. The blood drinker halted, cocking his head a ninety degrees unnaturally, his grin stretching wider. "You arent normal," he hissed. No ordinary human should be able to keep up with me. Feroy ignored the taunt. Instead, he focused, channeling mana into his spear. Flames roared to life along the weapons shaft, their heat distorting the air. With a quick step forward, he lashed out. The blood drinkers eyes widened for the briefest moment before his hands moved in a blur, conjuring blades of blood from thin air. They streaked toward the spear, colliding in a burst of sparks and crimson mist. Feroy didnt stop. He dashed along the wall, weaving through the projectiles as they exploded around him, his eyes locked on the nightmare. The creature sneered, parrying Feroys strike with unnatural precision and countering with a slash of a blood blade. Id love to taste your blood, he growled. Feroy ducked beneath the strike, the heat of his flaming spear scorching the air between them. As he rose, he spotted movement behind the drinkerEron and Tiara, weapons raised, preparing to attack. But then, his instincts screamed. Another blood drinker materialized in the air, a dark blur coming toward them. Behind you! Feroy barked. The duo spun just in time to meet the new threat. The clash of steel and claws rang out as they engaged the creature. Feroys eyes darted to the far side of the wall, where yet another blood drinker wreaked havoc. This one tore through Mages and gunners with brutal efficiency, his goal cleardestroy the mana cannons. A sharp pain stung Feroys cheek. He flinched back, a blade of blood grazing him and snapping his focus back to his own opponent. Gritting his teeth, Feroy let the flames from his spear spill over, wrapping around his arms like molten chains. He pressed forward. There was no room for errornot against a monster like this. He fought with an almost artistic cruelty, manipulating blood into sharp blades, explosive blasts, and grotesque, living constructs that lunged for Feroy. Each attack was met with fire. Feroy burned through every assault, his flames consuming the blood constructs before they could reach him. Finally, the blood drinker loomed close, his pale face inches from Feroys. It darted his tongue out, as if to take a taste of Feroy. The latter dodged the disgusting organ by moving his head backwards. Ive never seen someone like you. This is going to be fun. So, your lord hides secrets. I never thought Id see a mere human wield the power of a Mage. When Im done here, Ill tear you apart piece by piece. In an instant, the blood drinker disappeared, vanishing in the air. Feroy twirled his spear, the flames dancing along its length, their light casting jagged shadows on the blood-soaked walls. He locked eyes with the creature who appeared in some distance, his smirk steady and cold. You talk too much. Before the blood drinker could respond, Feroy surged forward, his spear slicing through the air in a fiery arc aimed straight for the creatures heart. Flames roared around him, scorching the blood blades the creature conjured. Each swing of his spear sent sparks flying, lighting up his focused face. Then, a shift came over hima dizzying, feverish clarity. The noise of battle faded, distant cries and clashing steel becoming nothing more than a dull hum. The only thing that mattered was the drinker, sharp and clear before him. Feroy grinned, his body suddenly sharper, movements quicker, as his mind slipped into the battle fever Killian had warned him about. In this state, there was only the fight. He leaned into it until he could only see the blood drinker. The creature snarled, leaping into the air and summoning sharp blood blades to rain down like falling stars. He dodged them easily. His spear flowed with precision, always staying one step ahead, pushing the blood drinker back, his once-confident sneer twisting into frustration as wounds began to mark his pale skin. "Enough!" the blood drinker hissed, pulling back slightly. "Youve wasted enough of my time. Now, prepare to die." With a growl, the blood drinker slashed his wrist, dark blood pouring out and forming into a massive serpent. The beasts fanged mouth snapped, charging toward Feroy with deadly speed. His eyes widened as he sprang back, the serpent crashing into the ground where hed been moments before. The walls offered no safety, so Feroy raced to the edge and leapt down into the courtyard below. His landing was brutal, pain shooting through his body as he hit the ground hard. Gasping for breath, he reached for a healing potion. But before he could drink it, he heard the faintest sound of movement behind him. He froze. A blood blade hovered just inches from his throat. "Put it down," the drinker whispered venomously, stepping closer. "Youve been nothing but a thorn in my side, and your time has come." Feroy didnt move, keeping his spear tight in his grip, his glare unwavering. "I havent lost yet," he muttered, his voice dripping with defiance as he lowered the healing potion slowly. The blood drinker stepped forward with a mocking smirk, his victory close. "Youre going to die, whether you like it or not," he hissed, his voice dripping with malice. "I know death can be unpleasant, but dont worryeven in death, youll serve me well." He tilted its head, crimson fangs gleaming as he stepped closer. "Ill drain every last drop from you." But before it could strike, a loud cracking noise echoed beneath his feet. The drinker froze, his eyes narrowing in suspicion as it glanced down, then back up at Feroy. The corner of Feroys lips curled into a sly grin. "You talk about death too much," Feroy growled. "Hope you like it." With those words, the ground beneath the blood drinker exploded in a thunderous blast. The hidden potion trap activated with devastating force, sending the drinker crashing into the stone wall with a sickening crunch. The sound of snapping bones filled the air, followed by the rattle of debris as it rained down on the battlefield. Feroy coughed, the shockwave making his ears ring. He quickly uncorked a healing potion and downed it, his body absorbing the bitter liquid. He pulled himself to his feet, gripping his spear tightly, and moved toward the crumpled form of the blood drinker. The creature was sprawled on the ground, his legs completely shattered, dark blood pooling beneath it. His eyes fluttered open, seething with rage and desperation. The creature was still alive, at least above the waist. Feroys face hardened as he looked down at the blood drinker. "I dont even feel bad about this," he muttered, raising his spear high. With a burst of flame igniting at the tip, he plunged the weapon forward. The fiery blade pierced the vampires neck, severing its head cleanly from its body. The head rolled to the side, and the battlefield grew eerily quiet for a moment. Sweat trickled down Feroys forehead as he wiped his face, glancing at the scorched earth where the blood drinker had once stood. "Zorgar was right," he murmured, recalling the precautions theyd taken. "Lining the ground with explosive potions inside the gates... just in case we lost." Feroys gaze shifted toward the wall, where another blood drinker lay slain. His body was riddled with wounds from the gunners and Mages'' relentless fire. The two remaining Enforcers were still locked in battle with the last blood drinker, their focus unwavering as they dodged and countered its vicious attacks. Feroy hesitated for a moment, tightening his grip on the spear as he considered jumping in. But after seeing the Enforcers work with the support of the gunners and archers, he decided against it. "Theyll manage," he muttered to himself, turning his focus back to the battlefield as he moved up the walls through the stairs. The chaos was starting to die down. Enemy mages lay scattered among fallen soldiers, their bodies lifeless. The tide had turned, and it was clearvictory was theirs. Amidst the chaos, Feroy''s eyes locked onto Baron Idrin, who was struggling to control his panicked horse. His face was pale, the nobleman''s grip faltering as he fought to regain control. The barons earlier ambition, the dream of a prosperous factory, was long gonereplaced by the instinct to flee in the face of crushing defeat. With a grunt, he vaulted down from the castle wall and surged forward, cutting through the battlefield with precision. The soldiers and warriors parted before him like the sea, no one daring to challenge him as he advanced. Baron Idrin caught sight of the charging figure, his eyes widening in panic. He spurred his horse, urging the creature to run faster, but Feroy was already on him. He hurled his spear. It flew true, striking the horse square in the chest. The animal let out a pained whinny before collapsing to the ground, throwing Idrin from its back. The baron hit the dirt with a thud and scrambled to his feet, trying desperately to flee. But Feroy was faster, closing the distance with purpose. A sharp kick to the baron''s side sent him crashing back to the ground, gasping for air. Feroy grabbed him by the collar, lifting him effortlessly off the ground as he glared into his terrified eyes. "You picked the wrong enemy," Feroy growled. Idrin sputtered, his voice shaking with panic. "Let me go! Duke Lucian will" Feroy silenced him with a deadly calm. "Lucian will have a fate much worse than you," he said, his words cutting through the baron''s rambling. "Nothing you say will save you, so shut up and act like a good prisoner." The barons lips trembled, and he opened his mouth again, but froze when Feroy raised a hand as if to slap him. Idrin flinched, his anger dissipating into fear. Feroys attention turned toward the battlefield, where the battle still raged. People were locked in vicious combat, some still fighting to the death, others attempting to escape the chaos. Feroy raised his voice, his tone carrying over the battlefield. "Everyone! I have captured Baron Idrin! The battle is over! Surrender now, and we will spare your lives!" His commanding words echoed across the field, demanding attention. Every eye turned toward him, then to the baron, and finally to the wreckage around themthe fallen soldiers, the shattered walls. The message was clear. Baron Idrin, defeated and broken, raised his arms in surrender, falling to his knees. His last shred of pride shattered. One by one, the remaining soldiers dropped their weapons, their resistance faltering. Slowly, they sank to their knees, raising their hands in submission. With that, the siege ended. Arzan''s forces had secured their first major victory. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 here. /extra26 173. War Strategy Some wars erupted suddenly, catching everyone off guard. Others simmered, giving you time to prepareweeks, months, even years. But Kai often wondered, could one truly prepare for war, no matter how much time they were given? It was a question hed mulled over countless times in recent days. Now, as news of victory from Verdis arrived, his answer tilted toward "yes." Feroys detailed reports confirmed it: not only had they subdued the enemy forces with minimal casualties, but theyd also captured Baron Idrin. A man Kai was eager to meet. But before that, there was much to do. Being the central figure in a war meant being everyones go-to for answerswhether it was about weapons, supplies, the well-being of their soldiers, or calming the common folk to avoid an uproar. And those were just the major tasks. A thousand other matters tugged at his attention, each one demanding resolution. Francis was a steady hand in all of this, yet even the seasoned administrator had no experience with war. For both of them, it was a constant learning process. Right now, they moved side by side toward the main meeting room, where the next set of plans would take shape. Kai walked with purpose, his boots in sync with Franciss quieter steps. The long hallway was lit with sconces. And at the end of the corridor, a pair of double doors stood. As Kai approached, one of the waiting servants stepped forward, bowing respectfully before pulling the heavy door open. Inside, familiar faces turned toward him: Killian, Gareth, Ansel, and a handful of others, including Franciss assistants. They all stood as Kai entered. He raised a hand, gesturing for them to sit. Lets not waste time. Take your seats. The men complied, shuffling back into their chairs as Kai took his seat at the head of the table. Francis lowered himself into the chair beside him, smoothing out a piece of parchment before nodding at Kai, ready to assist. Kai began without a preamble. Im sure everyone here knows that the first major battle of this fief war ended yesterday in our victory. And that victory has confirmed a few things for us. He gestured toward Francis, who immediately picked up the thread. First of all, the blood drinkers. Weve confirmed their involvement. All of them were killed in the battle, so we werent able to interrogate any of them. Even Baron Idrin had no idea about their numbershe only dealt with the three sent to him. But if theyre deploying three to support baron, we suspect theres an entire force of them in play. The murmurs began immediately, rippling across the room. Kai raised a hand, silencing the chatter with a sharp look. Francis, undeterred, continued. Secondly, Baron Idrin confirmed that four out of the other five major noblesbarons and viscountshave sworn allegiance to Lucian. The exception is House Redmont, he said, tapping a finger on the parchment. Theyve chosen to remain neutral for now. Their lands are on the eastern border, far from the heart of the conflict. It seems theyre content to watch and wait. The room fell into a tense silence. Kai nodded thoughtfully. What else did he say? Francis adjusted his glasses, glancing at the report in front of him. According to Feroys interrogation, not much beyond his own forces and territory. Baron Idrins knowledge about Lucians larger plans is limited. He was too terrified of us killing him to lie. He paused before adding, Apparently, the battle at Verdis wasnt supposed to happen the way it did. Idrin had originally planned to converge with Lucians forces. But after receiving support from the blood drinkers, he grew overconfident and rushed into the conflict, severely underestimating us. His plan was to take Verdis and hold it until Lucians forces arrived. Francis offered a dry smile. As we all know, that didnt go well for him. He was a fool, which worked in our favor. But we cant assume all our enemies will be that stupid, Kai said as a matter of fact. His gaze shifted to the map sprawled across the table, every corner marked with the positions of noble houses, cities, villages, and fortresses. The Sylvan Enclave was largelarger than hed imagined. Seeing its vastness laid out before him, dotted with critical locations and choke points, reminded him of the immense challenge ahead. He straightened, raising his head to address Ansel. What do you have on House Redmont? Are they really going to stay neutral? We cant afford any wild cards right now. Ansel met his gaze. From what my men have gathered, Viscount Redmont is a cautious man. Paranoid, even. He hates taking risks unless hes forced to. For now, he seems content to stay on the sidelines. Kai nodded slowly. Keep an eye on him, though. Even if he doesnt join Lucian, well still have four noble houses to deal with. Thats more than enough trouble as it is. The men around the table nodded, and Kais brow furrowed in thought. Before he could say more, Killian leaned forward, gesturing toward two castles on the map. House Dorn, he said, pointing to a location midway between Verdis and Lucians stronghold, Veyrin. This castle here sits right in the middle of a straight line between us and Lucians territory. If they plan to make a stand, this would be the ideal location. Its defensible and provides a perfect staging ground for the other noble houses to converge before launching an assault on Verdisand then Veralt. Killians hand trailed west, to another castle. If we move on Dorn quickly and take it, theyll likely regroup here, at Cragfort. The distance would slow them down, forcing the other houses to take time gathering their forces. Kai stared at the map, Killians words sparking an idea. Slowly, the outline of a plan began to take shape in his mind. We could use that delay, Kai said. Instead of waiting for them to unite, we hit the other noble houses separately. Take them down piece by piece before they can combine their forces. Would it be wise to split our forces like that, Lord Arzan? Ansel asked. Kai shook his head. We wouldnt split the core of our army. The main force stays intact. But smaller unitsled by Enforcerswould move to harass the noble houses, disrupt their supply lines, and seize their territories before they could rally together. His confidence made the men pause, though their faces remained uncertain. Even with Enforcers, a small unit against thousands of men? one of them finally asked. How is that feasible? It was Gareth. I know not all of you know the latest innovations Balen and his men have been working on. Kai smiled faintly. But trust me, there are many ways to achieve victory, even when were outnumbered. He glanced briefly at Balen, who nodded in acknowledgment, a proud smile tugging at his lips. The blacksmiths workshop had been buzzing with activityCnonstop as he created weapons, armour and golems. Smaller forces would mean our enemies underestimate us, and when they do He let the silence stretch, a knowing smile crossing his face. we strike. The air seemed to shift, the weight of his words sinking in. He continued, Moreover, golems and drones will move alongside us. Weve already started to make a good number of them. None as big as Sentinel, but theyll serve us well. Other than that, we now have access to druidic magic. Ive already sent it to the Mages under our command. Some have formed bonds with birds to keep an eye out on everything, reporting back to us. Coupled with Ansel and his sources Ansel, seated near the back, couldnt help but smile at that. His reputation as the head of Watchers was slowly spreading and his eyes gleamed with the satisfaction of being acknowledged. Kai raised his hand, emphasizing his point. With Ansels intel, well have as much information as we need. Intel is key in any war. And I havent even mentioned our friends, the Lombards yet At that, a murmur of interest rippled through the room. Many of them here knew what they were up to and had a hint about their fighting prowess. Ive heard quite a few of them have the potential to be Enforcers, Kai added with a grin. And that will be a surprise for our enemies when they least expect it. With all of this on our side, we cant lose. He allowed a moment of silence to pass, watching as his men absorbed the information. They had seen his strategies work before, but this time, it would be different. This time, they were not just fighting for survivalthey were fighting to subdue and capture their enemies. Any questions or better advice? Kai asked. None of them spoke. One thing was clear from their silencethey trusted him. Very well then, Kai said with a nod. Lets move onto the next topic. He leaned forward, spreading a new set of parchments across the table. The numbers well be fighting against *** The war council stretched on for hours, the kind of grueling meeting that weighed heavily on both mind and spirit. Kai found himself alternating between pouring over maps, discussing logistics, and strategizing troop movements. Every aspect of their defense and offense had to be analyzed in painstaking detail, from supply chains to potential vulnerabilities in their own ranks. By the end, his men left with clearer directions, though Kai knew one truth: no amount of planning could account for every variable. And variables, he mused, were the bane of every tacticians existence. Of all the uncertainties, the blood drinkers were the most troubling. They were the only faction whose numbers remained a mystery. Ansel was still working on gathering intel, but Luciandamn himhad hidden their existence well. Kai stepped out of the war room, the weight of the meeting lingering on his shoulders as he walked down the dimly lit hallway. The sound of his boots against the stone floor echoed faintly, and Kiliian fell into step beside him, silent at first. Kais thoughts remained elsewhere, circling back to the biggest threatthe one overseeing the blood drinkers. Feroys report had made it clear: the blood drinkers werent mere pawns. Their power put them at least on the level of knights, and the one leading them would undoubtedly be a lord. A creature like that wasnt just a strong opponentit was a nightmare. Blood manipulation, enhanced strength, and a resilience that made even his most powerful spells feel insufficient. If their leader closed the distance, Kai wasnt sure his enchanted armor would hold against even a single blow. He needed a solution. Thankfully, he had one. The elder tree concoction hed acquired from the elves was a game-changer. A gift, it had the power to strengthen his body in ways that bordered on the mythical and pushed him towards getting the power of an Enforcer. But its use came with a cost, one that would leave him vulnerable for hours. Kiliians voice broke his train of thought. Are you sure this is the right time to take it? Yes. I need to be as strong as possible against the blood drinker. I wont be able to reach another circle so soonitll take too much time. This is the only way. Kiliian frowned, his concern evident. Im just saying itll leave your body vulnerable, right? You said it yourself. Is that a risk you can afford right now? Kai nodded. Twelve hours, thats all. Ill be in meditation until morning. Once its done, Ill be able to open the vaults within my body. I havent experienced it before, but based on what I know, it will leave me in a strange state of pain as it remakes my body. He paused. But I believe I can handle it. And you know it''s our best chance to lure in the rat. Yes, I know that. I will make the preparation, Kiliian murmured, though his tone carried a hint of unease. As they approached Kais room, Kiliian glanced at the guards stationed by the door. Should I stay here and guard? he asked. Kai shook his head. No need. You should check out the items I brought back for you from Sylvastra. There are a few concoctions in there for you and the Enforcers. Not as potent as the one Ill be usingElder Caelith wasnt exactly thrilled about parting with mine either. He chuckled at the memory of the elf elders barely concealed irritation. Ill see if I can get more over time, though. Kiliian nodded, though his eyes lingered on Kai for a moment longer. Alright. Just dont push yourself too hard, Lord Arzan. With that, he turned and strode away, leaving Kai alone. Kai stepped into his room, closing the door behind him. His gaze swept over the space, taking in the shelves lined with books, the table scattered with notes and maps, and the familiar bed. He moved to the center of the room and bent. He shifted slightly, his legs crossed beneath him as he settled into the exact same spot where hed awakened as a Mage in this life. It was strange to think about how far hed come since that day. Back then, hed just been desperate to get back his power of a Mage. Now, he was about to take a step that would change him forevergiving him the power of an Enforcer. The thought was both thrilling and unnerving. Every progression in power was accompanied by a mixture of anticipation and fear. But this? This was different. He wasnt simply advancing; he was reinventing himself. After tonight, he wouldnt just be the Kai of old, the man who had already lived one life and died. He would be reborn, stronger than he had ever imagined possible. A faint smile played on his lips at the thought. Reaching into his satchel, he pulled out the vial. The liquid inside shimmered, catching the light like molten green. It was unnervingly beautifulan almost hypnotic shade of bright green that seemed alive. Tiny golden flecks swirled within, dancing in lazy spirals as though the concoction had a will of its own. Kai turned the vial in his hands, watching the liquid shift, the golden flecks glinting. A faint, sharp scent wafted from the uncorked vialearthy and herbal but with a strange metallic undertone. He didnt let himself hesitate. Whatever doubts lingered had no place here. Here goes nothing, he muttered, raising the vial to his lips. With one swift motion, he tilted it back and gulped the liquid down. For a second, nothing happened. The silence stretched as he sat there, almost wondering if hed made a mistake. But then his vision began to blur. A strange, cloudy fog seemed to seep into his eyes, shrouding the world around him in a murky haze. It was subtle at first, but then he felt ita deep, throbbing energy beginning to stir in his stomach. It wasnt the familiar warmth of mana flowing into his core. The energy spread slowly, creeping through his body, touching his mana organs first before branching outward into every limb, every muscle, every vein. And then the pain struck. It was unlike anything hed ever felt before. It was as if his very bones were being shattered and reforged at the same time. His muscles spasmed uncontrollably, and his skin burned like it was being torn apart and stitched back together in an endless loop. The energy coursing through him wasnt gentle or forgivingit was relentless, surging and roaring. Kai clenched his jaw, his hands digging into the floor as he tried to keep himself upright. The room around him disappeared; there was only the pain, consuming and overwhelming. He could feel his body breaking, reshaping itself in ways he didnt fully understand. Every cell felt like it was being remade, forced to adapt to something greater, something more. His vision flickered again, and this time, strange lights danced in the foggreen and gold. Sear?h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Despite the agony, a part of him clung to one thought, He let the pain wash over him, his breaths coming in ragged gasps as his body continued to break and rebuild itself. A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. 174. Rat Over the past week, Kai had replayed the procedure in his mind countless times. Hed gone through every detail, anticipating, planning every possible outcome, but nothing had prepared him for what was happening now. The fiery pain tore through him, hitting every nerve, every vein, every part of him. The concoction was inside him, coursing through his blood and organs like liquid fire. It wasnt just moving through his veins, but peeling away the very walls of his organs, burrowing deeper into his body like it was trying to reach the core of him. The pain became unbearable in a matter of minutes. He collapsed onto the floor with a heavy thud, his body barely responding as he tried to find a breath, the sensation nearly choking him. Every fiber of his being screamed for relief. His mind screamed for him to cast a spellto call on his magic, to lessen the pain, even if just for a moment. But he forced his hands down to the floor, knowing that interfering now was the last thing he could afford. This wasnt like his awakening, where he had to wrestle with his Mana heart, coaxing it to bloom. No, this time, the task was simpler. He had to do nothing. The concoction was doing its work, tapping into his magic, reshaping his body, making it stronger, preparing it for the Enforcers power. He didnt have to force it; he just had to endure. Mages and Enforcers both wielded mana, but their powers were different. Kai knew that well. To harness both was unnatural, and for that unnatural strength, he had to be prepared to bear pain that no one else could withstand. The time went by and it felt like every second brought him closer to shattering. His insides seemed to burst apart and then reassemble, only for it to happen again, over and over. His mind conjured vivid, torturous imageshands, invisible but relentless, tearing apart his organs before putting them back together. He knew they werent real, but the hallucinations gnawed at him, wearing down his hardened resolve. The ancient texts had warned him of pain, but they hadnt mentioned . This was beyond what hed expectedbeyond what he could have imagined. Yet as he lay there, the floor cold against his body, the thoughts in his mind were clear. If there was anyone who could survive this, it was him. Hed shattered every limit in his path in the pursuit of strength, and for more power, hed do it again. No matter how much it hurt, no matter how much it tore him apart. A question slipped through his haze of agony: Truthfully, now, Kai wasnt sure. The concoction wasnt guaranteed to workno one had ever said it was. But that was life. Nothing was guaranteed. It was all a risk. A risk he had to take. Hed come out of the last ordeal alive, when hed forced his mana circles to expand. He could do it again. He do it again. And just as the thought solidified in his mind, he felt it. A trickle down his cheek. At first, he thought it was tears, but the instant he touched his skin, he knew better. His fingers came away slick with something darker than tears. Blood. Thick, dark blood, like it was drawn from a creature of the night. His breath hitched, but the pain soon swallowed that too. There was no time to think, no time for fear. Only the endless flood of agony and the knowledge that he couldnt stop now. It felt as though the liquid waIt started at his eyesthe blood, thick and dark, seeping from his tear ducts. A tingling sensation crept down his arms and legs, and soon he could feel his skin tightening as small pores opened, letting more blood trickle out. It wasnt just coming from his eyes anymore; it was everywhere. His skin, his limbs, all bleeding as though his body was purging itself. Kai understood what was happening. Every impurity, every weakness, was being forced out. It was a painful process, but he knew it was necessary. The pain seemed to double, then triple, as the blood continued to pour, but Kai bit down hard on his teeth, determined to outlast it. He was close. He could feel itthe energy inside of him was dimming, the fiery sensation that had raged through him now slowing, becoming more bearable. The blood flowed faster, covering the floor, pooling around him, staining everything. The room was bathed in darkness and crimson. He hadnt realized how much blood he had until it covered the entire space. It was as though his body had held an ocean of it. Just as the pain seemed to reach its peak, the door to the room creaked open. A sliver of light sliced through the darkness. Claire. Her worried eyes were the first thing Kai saw, and behind her stood guards, eye wide with shock at the sight of him, but Claire was focused entirely on him. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. She moved toward him, her footsteps quick, but Kai barely registered the sound as his body trembled. She said something, her lips moving urgently, but he couldnt hear her over the pounding in his ears. Blood bubbled up in his throat, and he coughed it out violently, his body jerking from the effort. His hand shot up instinctively, palm facing her as if to reassure her. he wanted to say, but his voice failed him, drowning in blood and pain. He couldnt even make a sound. Claire didnt seem reassured by his gesture. Instead, she dropped to her knees in the blood, her face drawn in concern. Her eyes were wide, searching him for any sign of life, any sign that he was still in control. Kai wanted to tell her he was okay, but his vision was starting to fade, the world around him spinning. Everything blurred. The light from the door, Claires face, the guardsall of it began to dissolve into a haze, leaving him with only the sound of his own ragged breathing and the beating of his heart, which was growing weaker by the second. Before he could form another thought, another word, his body gave in. His vision swam, and everything went black. The last thing he saw was Claire, pulling a healing potion from her pouch, her hand trembling as she reached for him. Then, the darkness swallowed him whole. *** Roran Brightholm moved through the street, his eyes scanning everything around him. The guards patrolled the streets, their faces stoic, their movements methodical, but none of them seemed to be in a rush. The civilians strolled along the cobblestone paths, chatting casually, as though the war wasn''t going to knock on their door soon. It was an odd sightodd, yet familiar. Roran knew the reason behind it. The battle of Verdis had been won. The city had heard the news just yesterday, and it had spread like wildfire. People had celebrated, their spirits high, their confidence soaring. To them, the war was all but over. They believed victory was already within reach, that it would be a simple march through Veralt to finish the job. He could almost hear their thoughts, the civilians basking in their fleeting sense of safety. But Roran knew better. Victory at Verdis was one battleone that had been easier than expected. The war was far from over, and he knew that in the coming days, things would turn darker. He needed to make sure of it. He needed to ensure that Arzan KelliusLord Arzan, the rising Count of Veraltdidnt live to see the final march of the war. Rorans mind flickered with the task he had been given. It was his job to ensure Arzan lost. If Arzan survived the beast wave, Rorans mission would be to finish the job. But no orders had come yet. He had been keeping his distance, working as a spy for the Archine Tower, gathering any scrap of information he could. But the warthis warwas about to change everything. His heart tightened with that thought as he moved further through the city, blending into the crowd. There was a tension building in his chest. He could feel it in his bones. Something was coming. Something that would mark a shift in the tides. Then, he spotted it. A merchants carriageone that he had seen before moving slowly through the bustling streets, while mingling with the crowd. Without hesitation, Roran melted into the crowd, slipping through the gaps between people, moving silently, until he was near the carriage. He quietly slipped into the back of the carriage like a shadow, unnoticed by those around him. Inside, a man sat, his robes simple, his face nondescript, blending in with the ordinary merchant. Roran shut the curtain behind him and locked eyes with the man, who immediately handed him a sealed envelope. Roran took the envelope and looked at it with suspicion. "Whats this?" he asked. The man merely shrugged. Your final mission. Read through it, he replied. Roran''s eyebrows furrowed. "Final?" He frowned. "Just brief me about it." The merchants smile faded, a frown replacing it. He leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping. Magus Veridia has deemed your work here unsatisfactory. You havent provided the information she needs. So, its time to end your duty in Veralt. Kill Arzan, and get out of the city. Rorans eyes narrowed, suspicion flaring. What do you mean I havent provided good information? His hand clenched around the envelope. Ive sent everything I could get my hands on. His powershis strength in the battle. The forces he commands. Their strange power, like of a Mages. His bond with beastshis with them. I sent it all. The merchants face darkened, his voice now colder. I don''t know what you sent, but she''s unsatisfied. She wanted secrets, his inheritance, his long term plans and the way to create those mana cannons. But you couldnt provide that, could you? "I wasnt in a position to get that kind of information. You cant just" The man held up a hand, silencing him. Shes given you time. And now, your mission has changed. Kill Arzan. Dont waste time. This is your final task. Roran tightened his grip on the envelope, his words ringing in his ears. He opened his mouth to argue, but the merchant cut him off, his expression hardening. Not my problem, he said flatly. Finish the task, and then get back to Vasper Forest. Theres a map in the envelope, and once Arzan is dead, the war will be over. You can sneak out after that. Roran paused, his gaze flicking back to the envelope, then back to the man. Arzan is powerful. Hes also got too many powerful people around him. His voice lowered. I cant even poison him. The maids taste everything he eats before it reaches him. The merchants patience snapped, his face contorted with frustration as he leaned in. Theres a potion inside the envelope that should help you. But dont just stand there like an idiot. Use your brain. Now get out of here before they start a curfew. Reluctantly, Roran nodded, his mind racing with calculations and contingencies as he slipped the envelope into his robes. With one last glance at the merchant, he exited the carriage, the weight of the task pressing down on him. His pace quickened as he moved through the streets, the citys streets still lively, unaware of the storm that was about to hit. Roran couldnt afford to linger, and his mind kept wandering back to the impossible nature of the task. Arzan wasnt just a powerful lordhe was an enigma. A force to be reckoned with. Yet, there was no room for hesitation. He had his orders. Roran made his way towards the estate, passing the workers and the occasional guard. The air felt heavy, almost oppressive, and he quickened his steps as he neared the building. It wasnt his usual quarters he was headed for. No, today he wasnt going to his room. He had something more pressing to deal with. The estate was alive with activityservants and maids moving up and down the halls in their usual rhythm. Their hushed whispers filled the air, but none of it was useful information. Roran slowed his pace, straining to catch anything that might reveal a weakness, a slip-up in the plan. But nothing. The whispers were just thatempty sounds. Grimacing, he moved forward, turning left and right as he continued his search. And then, just as he was about to give up and retreat to his usual haunts, he spotted him. A guard stood nearby, his stance casual, official but the gleam in his eyes told Roran that he had something to say. As he approached, the guards face broke into a grin, and he whispered eagerly, Big news. You wont believe it. Roran leaned in, his interest piqued. What is it? The guards grin widened, and he leaned in closer. Lord Arzan apparently got unconscious. They say hes in his room right now, being treated. I heard there was blood all around him in his room. Rorans blood ran cold, his heart skipping a beat. Arzan unconscious? Blood all over the room? He felt the opportunity before him, and also the growing realization that this might be the perfect moment. He didnt know the details, but this was the break he had been waiting for. Rorans eyes widened in surprise. What happened? he asked, his voice tight, betraying his excitement. The guard shrugged. I dont know, man. I wasnt on duty, but yeah, I heard his situation is pretty terrible. He looked around nervously, as if aware that even the smallest detail might cost him. Barely able to hide the smile that crept onto his lips, Roran pressed a small bag of coins into the guards palm. Thanks, he muttered, then moved swiftly down the corridor. Immediately, different possibilities came to his mind. The timing was perfect. This was the best news he could have hoped for. Arzan, the man he had been ordered to eliminate, was in a vulnerable state. Rorans thoughts churned with possibilities. Why had Arzan gotten into such a condition? The most likely explanation was that he had tried to break through to the next circle of power, perhaps out of desperation over the war. Roran knew that Arzans ambition was as large as his power. It made sense that, in his overconfidence, he might have pushed himself too far. But the exact reason didnt matter. What mattered was that Arzan was in a weakened state, and that was the opportunity Roran had been waiting for. A wounded lion was easier to kill than a healthy one. He moved quickly, heading to a quiet corner of the estate, his mind now focused entirely on the task ahead. Roran carefully opened the envelope, ignoring the parchment inside. The information it contained could wait. His eyes were locked on the vial insidea small glass container, filled with a viscous, black tar-like liquid. A dark smile spread across his face as he held it up to the light. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. We crossed 3 million views! Hope you like new cover. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. 175. Rat trap Duke William Blackwood rubbed his hands together as he took in the man before him completely. Everything about Count Jorand Whitecrest seemed to be swallowed by whitehis beard, his hair, even the extremely elegant robes draped over his broad shoulders. But William knew better. The white wasnt just a matter of age, it was a symbol, the colors of House Whitecrest, a force that held dominion over lands stretching eastward to the sea. The years had left their mark on the man, but wisdom clung to him just as tightly as his reputation. Bringing the goblet to his lips, William took a slow sip. The moment the bitter liquid touched his tongue, he sighed, placing the cup back down with deliberate care. Jorand, my old friend, he said and sighed dramatically. Your wine is still as bitter as ever. Across from him, Jorand picked up his own glass, swirling the dark liquid before taking a sip. The nobles would say its simply not to your taste. Everyone else seems to like it. William let out a dry chuckle, shaking his head. Theyre just too scared to say anything but praises in front of you. His eyes glinted with knowing. You do know what our positions mean to others. Theyre terrified to offend us, even a little. And saying your wine tastes bitterI don''t think so. Jorand exhaled a soft laugh, setting his cup aside. I dont think you traveled all this way just to complain about people treating you too nicely, or to remind me that my wine tastes bitter. A rare smile tugged at the corner of Williams lips. No, William admitted. I was out hunting and thought to visit you at the same time. Jorand arched a brow. You traveled for hours just to hunt? No. To meet you. That seemed to catch the counts attention. His fingers tapped lightly against the wooden armrest of his chair. The kingdom is changing, William continued, his tone dropping lower. And there is much to discuss. And who better than you? Especially since I know you are in the middle of selling your allegiance to the first prince. Jorand didnt react immediately. Instead, he reached for his cup once more, taking a thoughtful sip before setting it down again. William could see the hesitation in his little action. Jorand had been a man of quick and precise actions, but when he took a slow sip out of the wine glass and exhaled loudly while putting it back on the table, he knew that his old friend had already come to his own conclusion. Are you here to stop me? In a way, William admitted, but more exactly, Im here to make you pause. To reconsider. Reconsider toward whom? I made my choice based on who is most likely to end up as king among the three. Williams smile didnt fade. If anything, it deepened. Jorands grabbed the glass again. There might be four soon. The counts brow arched mid-sip, the wine stopping just short of his lips. I know King Sullivan was lonely because he got crazy women as queens, he said slowly, lowering the glass. But did he really father an illegitimate son? Ive never heard of him. William shook his head. No. Its not one with royal blood. The count frowned, his fingers tightening slightly around the stem of his goblet. Then what do you mean? William leaned back, settling comfortably into his chair. His silver eyes locked onto the counts, watching his old friends confusion deepen before dropping the words like a blade. Count Arzan came to meet me. The pause was brief but heavy. The count blinked, then tilted his head, processing the name before scoffing. The new hero of the kingdom? He gave a small shake of his head. I never heard about this. It was confidential, William said, picking up his wine again but not drinking. He came and went without anyone knowing. He can be sneaky. And what was this meeting about? Williams lips curled slightly. Why dont you take a guess? There was no immediate answer. The count''s eyes narrowed slightly, then widened just a fraction as a thought struck him. Hes Valkyries son. A long silence stretched between them. Jorands expression shiftedfrom confusion to deep thought, then to something dangerously close to realization. And then His arm slammed onto the table, rattling the table. He intends to run for the throne? Is he crazy? William laughed. I think so. He swirled his wine lazily before adding, We might need some crazy for the good of the kingdom. Jorand didn''t seem convinced. His fingers tapped against the table, his mind clearly still working through everything. He grunted before responding. So youre supporting him. Not exactly. At least, not yet. But he gave me a lot to think about. A lot of things. He predicted the fief war thats raging right now. The count''s fingers paused mid-tap. He exhaled through his nose, lips pressing into a thin line. He knew it was coming? He leaned back slightly, rubbing his beard. Well I suppose thats believable. He already seems to have made gains in the war, but I dont know if hell win. His fingers drummed against the table once more. Apparently, almost all the nobles in the Sylvan Enclave are coming for him. William didn''t answer immediately, watching as his friend continued to piece things together. Then But I suppose, Jorand muttered. If youre talking about him positively, that means the rumors about him having dark powers are wrong. Duke William nodded, setting his goblet down with a quiet clink On the contrary, he said. He hates it. His fingers traced the rim of the cup as he continued. Its a conspiracy. I can tell because I met and talked with him. Is that why youre in favor of him? You do know its unlikely hell survive. I only get bits and pieces from that side since the whole place is locked down, but from what I hear, the forces against him are overwhelming. William exhaled slowly, nodding. I know, he admitted. But I have hope for one reason. The count raised a brow but said nothing, waiting. You know he didnt go straight to his territory after leaving the capital, William continued. My men tracked his movements. He headed toward the Sylvara Forest. That got a reaction. A deep frown. The one leading to Sylvastra. A long silence stretched between them. Even though William had known this piece of information, saying it out loud felt different. And by heart, he knew the next question. You think he met the elves? he asked. Yes. Its just a theory, but I think so. He wasnt in my territory just to talk to me, and my men never saw him passing through on his way back home. And yet, we both know hes in Veralt now. I suspect he has connections with the elves and they helped him travel back. That changes a lot of things, Jorand said while his eyes seemed distantthe man was clearly rethinking everything. No human has ever gained the elves favor. But do you really think he can defeat his brother and win this war? William sighed. Well wait and watch. Because I have no idea. With that kid, nothing is predictable. I havent made my decision yetfor that very reason. But dont forget if he actually does it, the waves it will send through the kingdom will be immense. He met Jorands gaze. Well need to be prepared. Jorand nodded in return. Youre right. He let out a quiet chuckle, shaking his head. Thank you for informing me. If you hadnt, I mightve rushed into an alliance. William laughed, the sound lighter than before. I didnt warn you just because I see Arzan as a potential claimant. Then what else? When Arzan came to meet me, he said, he told me some things about Regina that you should know. *** Roran Brightholm moved through the estate like a shadow, his breath steady but his heart hammering against his ribs. An assassination. And thenfreedom. No more hiding in this wretched place, no more playing the part of a loyal vassal. He would return to the capital, to the safety of Magus Verdia, and claim what was rightfully hispower, prestige, and the respect he had bled for. But his fingers twitched at the thought. His mind raced through the possibilities, each one gnawing at his nerves. What if Arzan survived? What if the guards found him before he could escape? What if? Roran shook his head sharply, his grip tightening around the small glass vial hidden within his robes. The potion felt warm against his palm, as if reminding him of its purpose. He exhaled, slow and measured, then glanced at the window. The sky had darkened completely. His steps were light as he ascended the stairsnot to the floor where Arzans room was, but one level above. The hallway stretched ahead of him, quiet and empty. He had planned for this. Finding an unoccupied room wasnt difficult, and once inside, he wasted no time. Crossing the chamber like hed planned, he reached the window and peered down. A handful of guards lingered in the courtyard below, their eyes fixed on the perimeter. None of them looked up. He placed a hand over his chest, feeling his own heartbeat beneath his palm. He had prepared for this. Muttering the incantation under his breath, he cast [Featherfall], his body growing lighter as he stepped onto the ledge. Without hesitation, he pushed off, plummeting toward the window below. The night air rushed past him. At the last moment, his fingers caught the window hinges. For a breath, he dangled there, his muscles straining, thenquietly, carefullyhe pushed himself inside. His breath came out in a quiet sigh, and he quickly scanned the room. His eyes drifted to the bed, where Arzan was, his figure barely rising and falling with each breath. The lord hadnt stirred. Hadnt even reacted to the shift in the air as a stranger slipped into his chambers. Roran moved with careful precision, muttering a soundproofing ward under his breath. A faint shimmer pulsed across the walls, sealing them in silence. No one would hear. No one would interrupt. He took another step forward, slipping the dagger from his robes. The cold steel gleamed in the low light, sharp enough to end this in one clean motion. Standing over Arzan, he let out a slow breath. he thought, tilting the knife downward, His grip tightened. One strike Youre early. Roran froze. Arzans voice was calm, almost amused. I was expecting you to come a bit later. The man in the bed opened his eyes. Roran took an instinctive step back, his heart slamming against his ribs as Arzan sat up, a slow smile creeping onto his face. The thought raced through his mind like wildfire. He clenched his jaw, pushing the doubt away. It didnt matter. He couldnt hesitate now. With a snarl, he lunged, slashing the dagger toward Arzans throat. A pulse of energy flared between them. The force sent Roran flying backward, slamming him into the wardrobe with a heavy thud. His head spun, his vision blurring for a split secondjust long enough for the door to swing open. Knight Killian stepped inside, his blade drawn, guards flanking him on either side. His gaze dropped to Roran, impassive yet sharp. Pinned, surrounded, Rorans breath came fast. His mind spun for an escape. S~ea??h the N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Youre done here, Arzan said, swinging his legs over the bed. His voice was almost casual, like he was discussing dinner plans. Just give up, and we wont torture you during interrogation. Rorans fingers twitched. His mind demanded. It didnt matter. There was no time to think. No time to hesitate. His hand shot into his robes, gripping the vial. Without another thought, he downed the potion. Just then, a [Wind Blade] shot forward. But Roran was ready. His fingers flicked, summoning a wind barrier just in time. Arzans attack should have been stoppedshould havebut the magic tore right through, slipping past the defense. Roran lunged to the side, his body twisting unnaturally fast, dodging just as Killian surged forward. The knights sword came down in a sharp arc, aimed straight for his shoulder Then the blade stopped. Not because Roran had dodged. Not because he had blocked it. But because something had changed. Dark, jagged scales rippled across Rorans arm, climbing up like living armor. His breath hitched as his body trembled, visibly something waking inside of him. Power flooded his veins. Chaotic, violent, uncontrollable. A force that roared like a storm, making his own magic feel small in comparison. His mind reeled. He could feel the strength thrumming through him. The unmistakable strength, the mana flowit was on a level he had never touched before. But none of it mattered. Not now. His gaze flickered up, meeting Arzans and Killians. The knights sword crackled with lightning, energy pulsing up the blade. Arzans hands moved, gathering mana, his eyes unreadable but sharp. For a moment, Roran considered it. He knew it was a matter of survival or doing his job. He had to choose one even with the power inside of him. But there was no moment to think, to come to a decision. Hence, he decided he wanted to live more. Without another thought, he snapped his fingers, channeling a spell Not at them. At the floor. The dark mana surged, wind compressing into a single violent burst. [Wind blast] The explosion rocked the room, tearing through wood, sending dust and splinters flying. It happened too quickly to process. He saw Arzan''s hands covered with another spell, but Roran didnt wait to see what it would do. He moved. In one swift motion, he spun and launched himself out the window. The night swallowed him whole. *** The soft hum of mana dissipated as Kai lowered his hands, undoing the protective barrier that had shielded both him and Killian from the blast. Dust still lingered in the air, swirling the air, filling his lungs. The wooden floor where the explosion had struck was shredded, deep cracks splintering outward like veins. A gaping hole yawned at the center of the destruction, the jagged edges still smoldering with traces of dark mana. When Roran brought the vial tip closer to his lips, there was a single thought that ran through his mind He had an immediate flashed back to Actrathe twisted form, the monstrous strength, the raw chaos that had nearly torn through him. Kai exhaled, his fingers flexing as he took in the aftermath. It had worked. One of the major reasons he had gone through with the procedure was this momentthis scenario. He knew the recovery would force him to rest for a day, that if someone wanted him dead, this was the best opportunity to strike. A perfect bait. And the rat had taken it. But he hadnt expected . His gaze dropped to the blackened remnants of the floor, then toward the shattered window where Roran had fled. His mind turned, dissecting what he had just seen, what the man had . The same kind that Actra had used. Was it so common? Were there more of these cursed vials in circulation? His jaw tightened. If she had, then she saw him as a major threat. Not just an inconveniencean . That thought settled heavily in his chest. Beside him, Killian stepped forward, his sword still in hand, though the crackling lightning had faded from the blade. Ive already given orders, he said. The guards are on full alert. He wont get far. Every exit is sealed. Kai nodded. I hope we can catch him alive. His eyes flickered toward the ruined floor again. If not, we lose a good pawn against Verdia. Just hope he doesnt try to escape through Vasper Forest. If he does, Killian murmured, he wont have a good time. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 176. Battle of Dorn (1) Roran Brightholm ran, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps. Every step sent a sharp jolt of pain through his body, like glass shattering inside him. His skin burned, deep cracks forming along his arms and legs, oozing dark, sluggish blood. The power inside him surged wildly, barely under control, making his muscles twitch and his head pound. If he stopped, even for a moment, he feared his body would finally break apart. Nohe knew his body would finally break apart. So he ran. He knew he had to go somewhere safeVasper forest, thats where he should go. Arzans forces might not be able to find him if he just Suddenly, his eyes widened. The walls of Veralt were right in front of him, lined with guards. He saw them pulling out their weapons and preparing to cut him down. Among them, he recognised the Knightsthey wouldnt hesitate. His heart pounded harder. No time to think, he had only one way out. Grinding his teeth, he forced the power inside him outward. The air around him howled as blades of wind, thick with a dark, pulsing energy, wrapped around his body. The moment he leaped forward, the guards sprang into action. Swords swung. Arrows cut through the air and spears almost reached closer to him. But the wind around him pushed them aside, snapping the projectiles before they could reach him. He hit the ground on the other side of the wall, knees nearly buckling from the impact. A sharp, searing pain tore through his legs, but he didnt stop. He pushed forward, the wind carrying him as he blurred through the dusty roads and past the city''s edge. The world became a streak of movementboulders, trees, empty roadsuntil the Vasper Forest finally appeared before him. The moment his foot touched the soft earth beneath the trees, he let the spell drop. The wind died, and with it, his last bit of strength. His legs nearly collapsed under him, and fresh pain exploded through his body. He inhaled deeply, but a sharp pain shot through him, it spread until the very tips of his fingers. He looked down at him. Blood soaked his robes, dripping onto the fallen leaves. He sucked in a shaky breath, his entire body trembling. Still, he moved. One step. Another. He had to go deeper, far enough to be safe. The shadows thickened around him as the trees grew denser, their twisted branches blocking out the moonlight. Then, the sound came. Soft. A shift in the leaves. His body froze. His breath caught in his throat. He wasnt alone. Slowly, he lifted his head, scanning the darkness between the trees. At first, he saw nothingonly the endless stretch of tangled roots and foliage. Then, movement. A shadow, too fluid, too purposeful to be just the wind. His fingers twitched, but when he tried to summon a spell, white-hot pain lanced through his arm. Blood dripped from his fingertips, the cracks on his skin deepening. He winced, biting back a cry as he forced his shaking hands into position. The rustling grew louder. The shadows shifted. Then, from the trees, something stepped forward. It was tallso fucking tall, its limbs lean and stretched, moving with an unnatural smoothness. Its eyes, piercing violet, locking onto him with a silent, predatory intensity. Its skin, if it could even be called that, was white fur with red stripes. He swallowed hard. Then, more movement. Another figure slinked out from between the trees, then another. More and more emerged, melting out of the darkness like shadows peeling away from the night itself. Within moments, the clearing was filled with them. A dozen? Two dozen? He couldnt count. His breathing grew unsteady, his hands twitching as fear clawed at his throat. Then, one stepped forward. Different from the rest. Taller, broader, and exuding an unmistakable aura of command. The Fray king. The creature snarled, its hollow eyes locked onto him. Then, in a voice like wind cutting through stone, it spoke. "Human. Put down." The Fray wasnt speaking fluidly, but Roran understood. We give you less pain The fray king moved, gliding forward without a sound. Roran flinched, his fingers curling as he took a staggering step back. His body ached, the power inside him flaring wildly, barely contained. But it wasnt just the Fray that filled him with dread. No. It was the thing he . sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. His gaze flickered, and for the first time, he truly saw itthe chaotic bubble of power that had settled over him. It pulsed, unstable, writhing like a living thing. The power he had been given, forced into his body to gain strength he didn''t deserved, only to find it tearing him apart. His chest tightened. Was this it? Was this where it all ended? He felt tears pooling his eyes, and his nose getting heavier. He sniffled. No. His eyes snapped back to the Fray, his expression hardening. "I can''t give up," he whispered. I wont give up! Then, he let the power loose. The wind roared to life, a cyclone of dark energy bursting from his body. The trees groaned, leaves ripping free as the force spread. The ground cracked beneath him. The Fray didnt flinch. But thenthe pain burst forth. Agony unlike anything before. Roran gasped, choking on his own breath as something tore through him. His own power. The dark winds lashed wildly, not just striking the Fray, but slashing into . He staggered, barely able to think as the spell spiraled out of control. His skin peeled away in ribbons, his body splitting apart with every surge of power. His scream tore through the forest, loud enough to wake every slumbering beast. The chaotic mana reached its peak, writhing, twisting And then, he . A deafening blast erupted, shaking the trees to their roots. The air distorted, the raw force tearing through everything in its path. The last remnants of Roran were swallowed by the explosion, his body reduced to nothing more than scattered fragments in an instant. The Fray stood still, watching. The wind settled. The forest grew quiet once more. The leader tilted its head, staring at the smoldering remains. Then, without a word, it turned. The rest of the frays followed the king into the forest. *** Unlike what Kai had hoped for, Roran hadn''t made it out alive. Reports from his men confirmed the gruesome detailshis body had detonated from the unstable, bubbling mana within him before the Fray had even laid a hand on him. A tragic end, perhaps, but one Kai found little sympathy for. Afterall, the man did try to end his life. Moreover, Roran wasnt stupidhe had known what would happen when he consumed the potion. Even if he hadnt fully understood the consequences, he had still chosen his path as a spy. One way or another, his fate had always led to death. Still, with his demise, the invisible knife hovering at Kais throat was finally gone. No longer did he have to keep a constant eye on the man, waiting for the inevitable betrayal. Though there was always a possibility of more spies, therefore, his Watchers had been monitoring everything closely, and for now, things remained under control. He did felt it was regrettable that he wasn''t able to take him as a prisoner to be used against Magus Veridia, but he''d no doubt she would have discarded him just as Actra. In the larger game, people like Roran were just pawns. With that matter settled, Kai shifted his focus to the next pressing issue. While he had been recovering from the strain of strengthening his body, the fief war had started to move. Lucian had evidently caught wind of what had happened with Idrin. In response, the noble forces had begun to mobilize, their armies moving to converge at Castle Dorn. Kai had no intention of letting them consolidate their strength. Not at all. After ensuring that Veralt was adequately defended in case of a surprise attack, he took action. With his forces prepared, he led them toward the castle, cutting off the enemy before they could gather in full force. With both Verdis and Veralt under his control and the steady recruitment that had been ongoing for weeks, his army had swelled to over two thousand and five hundred men. A staggering number. Many of them were fresh recruits, but they hadnt been thrown into battle unprepared. Those who had volunteered had undergone rigorous training, whipped into shape by his Knights. They might not yet be seasoned veterans, but they were no longer the untrained civilians they had once been. Now, it was time to put them to the test. Kai didnt know what to think as he led his forces toward the castle of House Dorn. The reality of war was never far from his mindthere would be deaths. It was unavoidable. He had already borne that weight in past battles, and had felt the crushing responsibility each time men under his command fell. Yet, no matter how much he steeled himself, it was never easy. Taking a deep breath, he pushed those thoughts aside and focused on the task ahead. The open fields stretched endlessly before him. Behind him, his men were following in disciplined formation. It wasnt extremely far away, just a little to the East from Veridis. And as they rode, the silhouette of the castle finally emerged in the distance, a dark mass against the horizon. With a flick of his wrist, Kai cast a simple signal spell a small firecracker-like explosion that burst in the air with a crackle of red sparks. At once, the marching force behind him came to a halt, their training evident in the way they stopped without disorder or confusion. Kai glanced back, pleased with how well Killian had drilled them. Then, shifting his gaze forward, he took in the fortress that loomed ahead. Castle Dorn was nothing like Veralt. It was massive, far larger and more imposing, its walls thick and weathered by years of conflict. This castle had undergone several major battles according to history, but all were under different rules. It was still a sight to see. Towering stone bastions stood at its corners. The outer walls were reinforced with layers of black stone, basically designed to withstand sieges. Arrow slits lined its upper sections, giving defenders the perfect vantage point to rain death upon invaders. Behind the battlements, he could make out the edges of high towers, their spires reaching toward the sky. The entrance was sealed shut with a heavy iron gate, thick enough to hold against a battering ram for hours. This was not a castle built to fall easily. As Kai studied it, a figure moved toward him from the ranks. Killian moved on his horse beside him. The knights sharp eyes were locked on the fortress ahead. "When should we march?" Killian asked. Kai exhaled slowly before replying, "In a couple of hours. According to tradition, we must offer them a chance to surrender first." He smirked slightly. "Though, I doubt they will." Killian made a sound of disapproval. "I dont like it. Giving the enemy time to prepare is foolish." Kai turned to him, an amused glint in his eyes. "You dont like traditions? Thats new, coming from such an uptight Knight." Killian shook his head. "Theres no tradition in war. Every second we give them is a second theyll use to fortify their defenses. And we both know they wont surrender." "Thats true," Kai admitted, his smirk fading. His gaze returned to the castle, calculating. "But it wont change the outcome. No matter what, we will win." Before Killian could respond, a gruff voice cut through the conversation. "The lad is right. There isnt a way those pesky humans can dfeat us." Kai turned toward the speaker, his brow raising slightly. Striding toward them with short but confident steps was a stout figure barely reaching his waist. Despite his small stature, the presence he exuded was anything but diminutive. A thick, unruly beard covered most of his face, streaked with gray and tangled in places. Deep-set eyes, sharp and shrewd, peered out from beneath bushy brows. His skin was weathered. And he wore sturdy armor reinforced with engravings. Needless to say, he carried himself with the air of someone who had lived long years. Kai met his gaze with a knowing look. "Tharnok," he said. "You do realize our forces are human too, dont you?" Kai watched as the dwarf stroked his beard, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Aye, but you''re fightin with weapons that I had a hand in craftin," Tharnok said with a proud grin. "Theyve got the dwarven touch in ''emsuperior to any human weapons." Kai chuckled but didnt argue the point. He had already met the dwarf when he returned to Veralt, a master smith who had been teaching Balen. The old craftsman had been more than enthusiastic about weapon designs, bombarding Kai with questions the moment they met. In exchange for the answers, he had eagerly thrown himself into helping with the production of lightwood armor and other weapons. His fascination hadnt stopped therehe had even tinkered with improving their golem designs. Now, he followed them into war, accompanied by a group of apprentice blacksmiths ready for on-the-spot repairs and reinforcements. Kai let out a breath, shaking his head in amusement. "Lets hope your weapons truly are superior," he said. "Because in a few hours, well be using them against those walls." The dwarf smirked. "Aye, lad. It''ll be a great demonstration. By mornin, that castle will be ours." He then turned to Kai with a hopeful expression. "And then youll have time to answer more of my questions. I still cant wrap my head around how you think of such fancy designs. But I guess humans have their smart men too." Kai ignored that last part, suppressing the familiar pang of guilt. He wasnt some brilliant innovatorjust a plagiarist, borrowing knowledge from another era. The thought weighed on him for a moment, but he pushed it aside, shaking his head. "Everything else can wait," he said, turning to both Killian and the dwarf. "First things firstwe need to conquer a castle." *** Viscount Buck felt his hair rise and his chest tighten as the scouts words rang in his ears. "A large army, my lord. Moving straight toward the castle. Their banners bear the sigil of Count Arzan." Buck clenched his fists beneath the folds of his robes. He had known this was cominghad braced himself for it ever since the news of Idrins capture. But still, it felt too soon. He had hoped, even prayed, that the infamous Count would remain cooped up in Veralt, delaying his march until their own forces were fully assembled. Yet, deep down, Buck had known that was nothing but wishful thinking. Arzan Kellius was a man of action. His past feats proved that much. Taking a slow breath, Buck forced himself to remain composed as he ascended the castle walls. When he reached the top, the sight below made his throat run dry. The scouts hadnt exaggerated. Their army was sprawled across the open grass fields, moving with unnerving discipline, banners fluttering in the wind. The sheer sight of them sent a dull throbbing through Bucks skull. He had been in his share of conflicts before, old enough to have seen and heard about battles and disputes over the land, but none of them compared to this. And worst of all, this wasnt even his war. He wanted no part in this madness. And even considering the dark rumours that surrounded him, Buck had little desire to clash forces with such a man. But he had no choice. For centuries, House Dorn had been subservient to the Kellius line, bound by blood and fealty. Betrayal was not an option, not if he wished to keep his head. So when the Counts forces inevitably sent a man forward, offering terms of surrender, Buck did the only thing he could. He stalled. Hours passed as he gathered his menKnights, warriors, battle-hardened veterans. The Mages reinforced their formations, readying spells and enchantments, while archers prepared for the first volley. The castle had been on alert since the fief war began, but now, with the enemy at their doorstep, every muscle in Bucks body tensed. Yet, as he stood on top of the walls, overlooking the battlefield, his confidence didnt come from his forces. It came from the walls themselves. Towering structures of black stone, they had been transported from the depths of the caves of Xaldris generations agoan underground labyrinth of minerals and enchantment-laced rock. Not even magic could breach these fortifications. Numbers might be on Arzans side. His forces might be better trained, better equipped. But no army had ever broken through the black walls of Dorn Castle. And Buck intended to make sure that remained true. He gripped the cold stone of the battlements as a sharp gust of wind swept across the field. His hair fluttered behind him, his unease hidden beneath a hardened gaze. Below, the enemy camp stirred with movement, a disciplined shift in their ranks that made his throat tighten. "My lord," one of his knights called out, voice taut with unease. "There seems to be some metal contraptions among their forces." Buck narrowed his eyes, scanning the battlefield. At first, he saw nothing unusual. Then, gleaming in the afternoon light, he spotted themsmall metallic machines, hovering just slightly above the earth as they advanced. His brow furrowed. These were not golems. They were too small, too frail-looking to be war constructs. Unlike the hulking, enchanted automatons of destruction, these contraptions seemed almost , moving with an unnatural smoothness. Theyre no different from carts with floating enchantments, Buck thought. A few well-placed arrows or spells should shatter them. "Archers!" he commanded, raising his voice over the wind. "Loose upon them! Mages, burn them to cinders!" The air filled with the hum of spells and the hiss of arrows as volleys rained down upon the advancing machines, initiating an attack. Yet, to Bucks growing concern, the projectiles bounced harmlessly off their surfaces. Spells that should have melted steel fizzled against an unseen barrier, and arrows snapped uselessly upon impact. His fists clenched. These things were sturdier than they appeared. But even thenwhat could they do? They were small, lacked visible weaponry, and had no soldiers escorting them. "Stay your fire," he ordered after a moment. "They are not golems of war. They can do little" His words died in his throat. The machines reached the foot of the wall. A split second later, their metallic bodies pulsed like a yellow heartbeat. Once, twice Then, the world shattered. His ears rang and the force rattled Bucks bones. Soon, the castles lower walls were engulfed in blinding light, and when the smoke cleared, horror gripped him. A section of the black stone fortificationsthe very walls that had stood unbroken for centurieshad crumbled. His breath came in shallow gasps as he stared at the destruction, dust still settling. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. - Question: Do you use Instagram? (If so, can you connect with me there, @tc.liyanage. I''m posting latest magus updates there) 177. Battle of Dorn (2) Kai''s eyes narrowed at the destructive massive hole that was made by the drones theyd created. Flames from the explosion still flickered even in the middle of the grass and rubble. For a moment, silence covered the entire battlefield. Even his own forces, despite knowing the drones purpose, stood frozen, staring in disbelief at the raw destruction. The short-term offensive drones had worked exactly as planned, their enchanted cores detonating with devastating force. But Kai had no time to stand and celebrate the little success. He could already see movement on the enemys sidefigures scrambling, regaining their bearings. He looked around at his own forces. Dont just stand there! Charge! Show the enemy our strength! his voice cut through the stillness. At that, a thunderous roar erupted from his troops. They finally snapped out of their stupor. The ground shook beneath the charging forces, cavalry leading the way with Killian at the front, his blade shining. The infantry surged forward behind them, moving in perfect coordination. Ahead of them, more drones hovered forward, ready to blast through additional sections of the wall. But this time, the enemy reacted faster. A flurry of spells and arrows rained down, targeting the incoming drones. Several exploded mid-air, bursts of flame and shattered metal lighting up the sky. But many still reached their mark, slamming into the castles structure with earth-shaking force. Entire sections of the walls groaned and collapsed. From the corner of his eyes, he caught sight of archers plunging from the ramparts, dying on the spot, their screams lost in the chaos. Then, the enemy Mages retaliated. Earth Mages moved fast, their hands glowing white as the ground rumbled beneath them. Stone and soil rose at their command, twisting into new barriers to block Kais forces. But his Mages were faster. A crackling roar filled the battlefield as lightning bolts shot through the air, striking the forming walls before they could harden. The explosions sent chunks of rock flying, the shockwaves rippling through the field. Fire followed in rolling waves, its heat distorting the air as it crashed against stone and mud defenses. Wind-enhanced blades sliced through enemy lines with deadly accuracy, carving deep into armor and flesh. Ice mages hurled jagged spikes, their sharp tips gleaming as they tore through the battlefield. Painful screams and furious shouts mixed with the clash of steel and the roar of magic. Through the chaos, Kais sharp gaze scanned the battlefield, searching for the blood drinkers. He saw none. But when his eyes flicked upward to the castle walls, something made him pause. Two enemy Mages stood atop the battlements, their robes billowing in the wind, their hands glowing with power. One wielded fire. The other water. The Fire Mage lifted his staff, his eyes gleaming with menace. A ball of molten energy formed above him[Incendiary Burst], a third circle spell. A heartbeat later, the sphere exploded, sending searing flames crashing into Kais frontline. The impact hurled soldiers backward, their armor glowing red-hot before melting against their skin. Agonized screams filled the air. Beside him, the Water Mage moved, his fingers tracing symbols in the air. In an instant, dozens of water spears shimmered into existence[Piercing Torrent]. The sharp, crystalline projectiles shot forward like arrows, slicing clean through armor and flesh. Soldiers gasped and fell, blood pooling beneath them as the spears punched through their bodies. Kais jaw tightened. They were third-circle castersstrong, dangerous. Left unchecked, they could turn the battle against him. He exhaled slowly, steadying his thoughts. Even with enchanted weapons and armor, his soldiers were still mortal. They werent meant to fight high-tier Mages head-on. That was his job. Wind gathered around his legs, swirling like a coiled storm. Thenwith a single pushhe launched himself into the air. Gasps rang from the enemy as he soared above the battlefield. The archers on the battlements barely had time to react before he landed in a controlled burst of wind, standing tall on the wall. Behind him, fire and smoke curled into the sky, painting the battlefield in a hellish glow. The two third-circle Mages stiffened. Years of battle had sharpened their instincts, and they recognized the danger immediately. The Fire Mages eyes widened as he opened his mouth to say something, but before he could, Kai sensed danger coming towards him from his side. A barrage of arrows shrieked toward Kai, aimed to take him down before he could act. But his wind magic flared, twisting the air around him. The arrows veered off course, snapping mid-air like nothing. The few that remained on targethe dodged them with inhuman grace, his feet barely skimming the stone as he moved. Just then, Fire and water surged to life in the Mage''s hands, twisting the air around them. The Fire Mage conjured a molten sphere in his palm, the heat distorting the space around it. Beside him, the Water Mage shaped swirling orbs of razor-thin liquid, their surfaces trembling with compressed force, ready to cut through flesh and steel alike. With a single breath, they attacked. Kai moved instantly. His left hand shot forward, fingers spread wide. Ice erupted from his palm, a thick crystalline wall forming in the blink of an eye. The fireball struck first, exploding on impact, sending cracks racing through the frozen barrier. A heartbeat later, the water spheres slammed against the ice, shattering with piercing shrieks. He rebuilt the ice wall from his left hand and prepared his next move. A deep crimson glow pulsed beneath his skin, searing through his veins. His right hand ignited. Anglo Granda Zakai! he muttered. Dark flames erupted from his palm in the form of a deadly dragon, a furious lash of searing heat. It devoured his own ice wall, melting through the structure in an instant and opening a holejust wide enough for his flames to break through. In an instant, the large dragon shaped fiery spell caught the enemy Mages off guard. The Water Mage lunged to the side, but not fast enough. The edges of his robes ignited, embers licking at the fabric. Gritting his teeth, he summoned a flood of water, drenching himself before the flames could spread. His ally wasnt so fortunate. The Fire Mage met Kais attack head-on, summoning his own blaze in a desperate attempt to counter. For a moment, the two infernos clashed in midair, swirling together in a storm of burning light. But it didnt take long to see whose fire was stronger. Kais flames surged forward, swallowing the weaker blaze. The Mage barely had time to scream before the blast slammed into his chest, sending him flying. His body struck the stone wall with a bone jarring thud before crumpling to the ground. Smoke curled from his scorched robes as he lay motionless. The Water Mages eyes widened. His eyes slowly moved from Kai to his comrade and then back at Kai. A dual-casting Mage he muttered in a mix of disbelief and awe. Kai couldnt care less. Twin spells flared to life in his handsone wrapped in crackling frost, the other wreathed in searing fire. He had learned something recently. His fire and ice werent opposites, not in the way ordinary magic dictated. Instead, they fed into each othera cycle of destruction and renewal. And Kai relished the power in his hands. With a flick of his wrist, an ice lance shot forward, its sharp tip pointed at the Water Mage; the man reacted instantly, summoning a shimmering blue barrier of water in front of him. The ice slammed against it, spreading frost across the surface. But before the shield could solidify, a wave of fire followed, scorching the moisture and exploding the shield with a blast of scalding steam. The Water Mage coughed, covered in the mist, stumbling back as the heat clawed at his skin. He barely managed to form another layer of defense before Kai pressed forward with more attacks. Ice spears shot through the air. Fire bolts zipped toward the Mage with a crackle. A slicing arc of wind-infused magic sliced through the battlefield. Spell after spell rained down in rapid succession, forcing the Water Mage into a constant retreat. He was goodKai could feel it. His water shields held for a while, bending and reshaping with each strike. But every clash wore on him, draining his mana faster than he could replenish it. And Kai could see it. The Mage scoffed in frustration, his gaze immediately darting towards the battlefield below, as if hoping for any reinforcementCany sort of help. But there were none. And that gave Kai the cue to finish this. He waved his hand in the air and launched another burst of fire towards the Mage, who gritted his teeth and dodged, rolling to the side at the last moment. As he rose to his feet, he flickered his wrist. Thin, shiny daggers of water shot towards Kai, slicing through the air like blades. The wind whistled but Kai didnt even flinch. A gust of wind spiraled around him, catching the daggers mid-flight and sending them spiraling off course. Before the Water Mage could even react to his failed attack, Kai struck. His hand shot forward, creating a fiery whip. It lashed forward, coiling around the Mages torso. Then he yanked. The Water Mage barely had time to gasp before he was yanked off his feet, crashing into the stone floor with a loud thud. His breath was knocked out of him, and his limbs twitched weakly as he struggled to rise. But Kai wasnt about to give him the chance. With a flick of his wrist, the whip tightened its grip, bringing him down and pinning him to the ground. Then, he yanked him off in the air with his new found strength. A scream echoed out of him as he fell to his death, but soon it faded and Kai took the moment to relish in his victory. Not bad. But they were never going to win, he muttered, taking a breath to stabilise his heartbeat. Despite them being at the same rank, Kai knew the difference between him and any other third circle Mage was major. He was almost at the peak of the third circle, and had experience alongside superior spells and a lot of training to the point he was even confident in taking on a fourth circle Mage. He narrowed his eyes and looked at the battle below. No more Mages were leftand just as Kai exhaled, a sudden chill crawled up his spine. His instincts screamed at him to move. He twisted. A dagger flew past his shoulder, slicing through the air where his throat had been only moments before. His gaze snapped to the source, and standing there, wearing heavy silver armor, was a Knight with a bloodied blade in hand. "I will kill you for my lord," the Knight growled. Kai raised an eyebrow, unruffled by the threat. He didnt raise his hands to cast a spell. Instead, he reached behind him, pulling free the spear strapped to his back. The weapon hummed in his grip. "Lets see if you can," Kai said, lowering into a stance. "I wont even use magic." The Knights pupils dilated with surprise for a moment before his face tightenedCdevoid of emotions. He roared and chargedwith his sword raised high. Steel flashed as the Knight swung in a vicious downward arc, aiming to cleave Kai in two. Kai intercepted the strike effortlessly, twisting his wrists just enough to deflect the blade to the side. The Knight groaned at the movement. But soon, he recovered, pulling the sword from Kais grasp and lashing out rapidly, his sword moving in brutal slashes and thrusts. Kai danced around each strike, sidestepping the attacks as if they were nothing more than just wind. "You''re slow," Kai said with an air of nonchalance, dodging yet another heavy swing. The Knights eyebrows knitted together and he snarled in frustration. His fury mounted as he pressed on and every attack became more desperate and reckless than the previous. Kai moved in defense. Sparks flew as steel collided with steel, but no matter how fast or hard the Knight struck, his sword never once grazed Kai who doubted the man was ever going to be able to touch him. After all, had opened the vaults in his legs. He felt the rush of power surging through his muscles, amplifying his speed to inhuman levels. It felt effortless to move, avoid strikes, dodge every hard thrust. Like a shadow. The thought barely had time to settle before Kais instincts kicked in, pushing him onto the offensive. He could let this man slash and thrash until he got fed up and ran out of energy, but Kai had other matters to attend tobasically to overlook an entire field of chaos. He slipped past another wide swing, pivoted on his heel, and with a fluid motion, slammed his foot into the Knights chest. The force sent the man stumbling back, barely managing to keep his footing. Kai didnt give him a chance to recover. The shaft of his spear snapped forward, striking the Knights knee, splurging blood out of it. Armor groaned, and the Knight dropped to one knee with a sharp gasp of pain. Kais movements were swift and deadly. In a single motion, he twisted his spear and drove the sharp tip through the Knights shoulder, piercing deep into the armor. The Knights howl of agony echoed in the air, but Kai wasnt finished yet. He yanked the spear free and lunged again, stabbing into the Knights other arm, impaling it. Another cry of pain rang out, but the man couldnt muster the strength to fight back. There you fucking go. Kai kicked the man sprawling onto his back, his body collapsing with a thud. Kai stepped back, his breath steady as he surveyed the scene. His legs buzzed with energy, and his body hummed in a way he had never felt before. Even as a Magus, he had never experienced this kind of raw, untethered power. The Enforcer''s strength was something entirely differentfar beyond what he had imagined. He felt every cell of him. But before Kai could dwell on the feeling, a sudden wave of shouts filled the airsome filled with pain, others with rage. The battle wasnt over and he had to play his part. *** Killians boots squelched against the bloody ground as he looked around. Steel against steel rang through the air. Men shouted with fury? Pain? He didnt know, nor did he want to know. The only thing he saw was the bodies that fell and the stench of blood, sweat and iron. But they were winning. The Enforcers carved through enemy lines like a well-oiled machine, their formations holding strong. Sarch* The novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Killian knew that his training for them had paid off. He could see that. Each swing of their blades was precise, each step measured and coordinated. Further back, Mages rained destruction from behind the front linesbolts of fire streaked through the sky, ice shards impaled enemies where they stood, bursts of wind sent men tumbling like ragdolls, and several Earth Mages were helping the fighters back to back by shifting their enemy''s footing, throwing them off balance and even attacking with large chunks of earth particles. Killian had his doubts about the Mages before. They were from the Archine Tower originally, and he had never trusted them. But so far, they hadnt failed. Still, the battle wouldnt end until they took the enemy Viscount. Lord Arzan had given the order before the fight had even begun, and now, it was up to Killian to see it through. Gritting his teeth, he adjusted his grip on his sword and charged toward the stone staircase leading up the wall. The sounds of battle faded behind him, drowned out by his own heartbeat. He focused on the top of the wall, where Lord Arzan fought against enemy Mages and archers, the dark silhouette of his figure outlined by flickering flames and exchanging water attacks. Killian pressed forward. Out of nowhere, a spear shot toward him, aimed for the narrow slit in his visor. He barely saw it in time. Instinct kicked in, and he dropped low, feeling the sharp rush of air as the weapon whistled past his helmet. It clanged against the stone behind him, sparks flying. His head snapped up. Six enemy soldiers blocked the stairs ahead, their weapons drawn, their eyes fixed on him like wolves spotting fresh prey. But he knew who the predator was. Yet, he absorbed their figures. One of them smirked. Another twirled a short axe in his grip, as if eager to see blood spill. Killian exhaled slowly, rolling his shoulders. His fingers tightened around his sword hilt. If they wanted to stop him, they would have to try harder than that. He tightened his grip on his sword and set his stance. Sparks of lightning crackled along the blades edge. He exhaled sharply and raised his weapon. "Come at me. The words barely left his lips before he struck. His sword cut through the air in a wide arc, and bolts of lightning flew from the blade, snapping toward the enemies like creeping vines. The crackling energy slammed into their armor, forcing some to stumble, but there were too many to be attacked with one strike. Moreover, the narrow stairway left little room to maneuver, and their sheer numbers threatened to overwhelm him. A spear lunged for his chest. He twisted, letting it scrape harmlessly past his side, then brought his sword up just in time to deflect a downward slash from another soldier. Sparks erupted as steel clashed against steel. The tall man pressed forward, trying to drive him down the steps. Killians boots held firm. He ducked beneath a swinging axe, rolled his shoulder to avoid another spear thrust, then lashed outgrabbing the nearest soldier and smashing his head against the cold stone wall. The man groaned, stumbling back, and Killian wasted no time, his blade slicing cleanly through the second soldiers chest, lightning surging through the wound. The third and fourth came at him together, their swords flashing in unison. Killian gritted his teeth and met their assault, his blade a blur as he blocked and parried. He shoved them back, their balance wavering. Before they could recover, a fifth soldier barreled forward, boots crushing down on his fallen allies in his rush to strike. Killian sidestepped, letting the mans momentum carry him forward, then hooked his sword beneath his opponents guard and sent him reeling down the stairs. The last soldier hesitated, his eyes darting between the injured men and Killians crackling blade. Killian raised his blade. A surge of lightning burst from it, striking the man square in the chest. The force lifted him off his feet and sent him crashing over the stairs edge with a strangled scream. Silence followed, save for the distant clash of battle. Killian didnt waste time catching his breath. He turned, sprinting up the remaining steps. As he reached the top of the wall, his gaze swept over the wide area. An arrow sliced through the air to come towards him and he dodged, looking at the archer standing right next to the entrance and grinned, dodging more arrows and closing the distance between them. Killian cut through him effortlessly and shoved him backwards. The mans screams fell into deaf ears as the force of Killians fist threw him off the wall. Just then, a Knight lunged at him, but Killian barely slowed. He took that opportunity and side stepped the clumsy strike and drove his sword clean through the mans chest. He yanked it free in one fluid motion, flicking blood onto the stone beneath him. And then he saw him. The Viscount In the middle of all the action and noises, the noble stood with his back straight, hands gripping the hilt of a longsword. His eyes swept over the battlefieldthe crumbling walls, the slain soldiers, the flames licking at what was once his castle. There was no fear in his expression, only a grim acceptance. He turned as Killian approached, his gaze hardening as he took him in. "I''m not planning to go down without a fight," Viscount Buck said steadily despite the ruin surrounding him. Killian tilted his head, cracking his neck as he shifted his stance. Lightning curled around his fingers before settling back into his blade. "That''s fine by me." Viscount Buck surged forward, steel flashing as their weapons clashed. Sparks flew from the impact, the force rattling up Killians arms. For a mortal, the noble had impressive strengthhis strikes came fast and relentless, fueled not by desperation but by something deeper. Pride. Even though his defeat was already decided, he fought with everything he had, refusing to fall without a struggle. And somewhere in that, Killian found a sliver of respect. But respect didnt change the outcome of a battle. Killian shifted his footing and pressed forward, his attacks coming sharper, faster. Buck faltered under the assault, his defenses cracking as Killians blade carved through the air. A sudden slash cut toward the nobles shoulder. With a grunt, the Viscount raised his arm to block. Steel bit into flesh, and blood splattered across the stone. He let out a pained snarl, staggering backonly for Killian to channel lightning through the wound. Electricity crackled along Bucks body, forcing him to retreat even further. His breaths came ragged now, his grip weakening. Killian didnt hesitate. He lunged forward and drove his boot into the nobles chest, sending him sprawling onto the ground. Before he could even think about getting up, Killian dropped onto him, slamming a fist into his face. The impact echoed against the walls. The nobles helmet tumbled away, revealing his dazed expression before consciousness slipped from his grasp. Killian exhaled sharply, wiping his brow as he grabbed the unconscious noble by the collar and hauled him to his feet. His voice rang over the battlefield as he yelled, "Your lord is down! Put down your weapons!" The fighting slowed. Warriors turned, bloodied and breathless, to see the fallen Viscount. One by one, swords clattered to the ground. Shields dropped. Hands rose in surrender. Soldiers fell onto their knees. And just like thatit was over. Killian stood still, letting the moment sink in. His fingers twitched around his swords hilt, and he realized how strange it felt. Victory. Overpowering their enemy so completely. He had been so certain, so confident. But now, with the battle won, the weight of it settled in his chest. Then he heard footsteps. He turned and saw Lord Arzan approaching. The man had blood on his hands and facebut Killian knew it wasnt his. Killian lowered the Viscounts limp form to the ground, stepping back as his lord knelt beside him. Lord Arzan glanced at the battered noble, then let out a quiet chuckle. "Hell need help, but hes far from death." His gaze flicked to the mans bruised and bloodied face. "Though, I doubt hell be showing that face in public anytime soon." Killian exhaled, adjusting his grip on his sword before turning to Lord Arzan. "Whats the next order?" Lord Arzan didnt hesitate. "Seize the castle. Tend to the injuredboth ours and theirs. Patch them up, then throw them in the dungeons. Well interrogate them later." He gestured by his hand. "Get the common folk under control. Let them know were not here to slaughter them, or they might do something foolish. And send the Enforcers to deal with the other nobles before they cause trouble." Killian nodded, knowing the work wasnt over yet. But just as he turned to leave, Lord Arzans gaze flicked to the sky, his expression shifting into something colder. "...Though," he murmured, almost to himself, "I dont think the battle is over yet." A chill slithered down Killians spine. He frowned. "What do you mean?" Kais jaw tightened. "I saw no blood drinkers in this fight." The words hung heavy between them, sinking into Killian like a weight in his chest. It was true. He himself hadnt seen a single blood drinker. Not when the entire castle was being reduced to shambles. "We need to question the Viscount about it," Kai continued, eyes scanning the ruined battlefield. "But Im afraid theyre just hiding, waiting for the right moment. Their stealth abilities are beyond what I expected." He let out a slow breath, then finally looked at Killian. "This is just the start." Killians fingers curled around his hilt, his instincts sharpening. "Yes, Lord Arzan" he agreed. "The start of many battles. We are prepared." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 178. Like a god of war Lucians gaze lingered on the dagger resting on the wooden table in his tent. The constantly flickering lantern light drew shadows across its smooth, dark surface. It was made of obsidian, its black blade swallowing the light rather than reflecting it. His eyes lingered a second longer on the hilt of itthe crest of House Kelliusa mighty Rayan eagle with its wings spread wide, its talons gripping nothing but air, ready to strike. A condescending smile drew on his face while his fingers traced the engraving, and a sigh slipped from his lips. The memory of his fathers last moments crept into his mind unbidden. The old man had been frail, his voice barely audible when he pressed this very dagger into Lucians hands. "Be a just ruler and take care of your brothers." Lucians jaw tightened. The words tasted bitter now. He let out a dry chuckle, shaking his head. "Im sorry, Father, but I dont like my brothers enough to take care of them." His grip on the dagger tightened, the edges of his mouth curling up into something that wasnt quite a smile. "But I would send them to you to do it. Take care of them for me, they do not belong here. The tent flap rustled, breaking the moment. His eyes flicked up, irritation flashing across his face. But then recognition settled in. Shakran stepped inside. More blood drinkers followed him blindly. Lucian exhaled through his nose. "Report." Shakran bit his lipsclearly disliking the tone of Lucians words. Then, without asking, he dropped onto the wooden stool across from Lucian. Lucians expression darkened. His fingers twitched as if he might rise, his glare sharp enough to cut. sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. "Stay seated," Shakran said flatly, as if he was already bored by Lucians presence. "The news my pawns have brought wont make you happy." Lucian narrowed his eyes. "What happened?" "Heavy losses. He shrugged. "At the hands of your brother." Lucians fingers drummed against the table. "Go on." "You already know how that fool of a human surrendered. You know how I lost my servants in the battle at Verdis." Shakrans lip curled slightly. "But now, weve received more troubling news. Your spy? Dead. Killed." He let that sink in before continuing, "And House Dorn? Gone. Your brother wasted no time. He attacked it, took it for himself." Lucians fingers stilled. By the way, Shakran leaned forward, his smirk returning. "Your brother aggressive leader. A really powerful Mage, too. Far better than my expectations. My pawns saw it all." Lucians grip on the dagger tightened, his knuckles paling. His mind reeled, thoughts clashing like swords in a chaotic battle. His breath came sharp and slow as he fought to keep his composure. His heartbeat pounded against his ribs, demanding action, demanding blood. "Describe the battle," he said. "Your brother is a third-circle Mage. You know that, but he''s at the peak of it, a foot already in the next circle going by his power," he said. "And judging by how fast he moved, he doesnt just rely on magic. He trains his body too." He rolled his eyes in frustration. "By human standards? Hes good. By magic standards? Hes a worthy opponent." Lucians jaw tensed. That wasnt unexpectedArzans new found strength was something he was well aware of. But talent alone couldn''t take down House Dorn so quickly. "But," Shakran continued, "your brother isnt the problem. The forces he led are." He leaned forward, resting an elbow on his knee. "My pawns saw some interesting things." Lucian remained silent, watching him carefully. "Contraptions that blasted through entire walls. Knights wielding the power of Mages. And" Shakran paused, letting the next word hang between them, knowing it would sting. "A dwarf." Lucians brow rose slightly. "A dwarf?" His fingers tapped against the obsidian blade. "I already know about his magical Knights, but a dwarf?" Shakran nodded. "Your brother seems to have enough charm to bring one into his service." He gave a dry chuckle. "And that would explain the contraptions." Lucian exhaled through his nose, his mind already piecing things together. In addition to leading an army, Arzan seemed to be also building something way more dangerous. "Now, what will you do, oh great noble man?" The mockery in his tone was unmistakable. Lucian, to his credit, didnt react. He simply lifted his gaze and looked at the blood drinker dead in his eyes. "Send your men to the other noble houses with everything we know. Tell them to get here quickly. If we give Arzan too much time" He let the sentence trail off, the implication clear. Shakran raised a brow. "Eager to reveal yourself to the other nobles, are we?" His smirk widened. "I thought Idrin was already giving you away, but wellhe was under you. A slave who would lick your cock if you told him to." His eyes glinted with amusement. "But these other nobles? Won''t they run to the crown the moment they see what you really are?" Lucian met his gaze, unimpressed. "I will deal with it," he said simply. "You do as you''re ordered." Shakran chuckled, shaking his head. "And while we wait for the nobles to arrive? You wont just sit here, I take it?" Lucian scoffed. "Of course not." Shakran leaned back. "Then what are you planning?" He waved a hand. "Even with us, your Mages, and your mercenaries, attacking your brother now would be unwise. We have no idea what else he has hidden up his sleeves." Lucian lifted the dagger and trailed along the edge with his finger. "So now youre taking him seriously, huh?" Shakran let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. "Hes turning out to be a good opponent. Not quite worthy yet, but If we ever cross blades, I might actually enjoy the fight." He tapped his fingers against his thigh. "But this isnt about just one man, is it? His entire force is alarming. Thats the problem." Lucian nodded slowly. "I know." His fingers traced the crest on the daggers hilt, absentmindedly. "But every force needs certain things." His grip loosened as his mind worked through the details. "Air. Food. And" He trailed off, his eyes narrowing slightly. Then, as if a puzzle piece had clicked into place, he exhaled sharply. "Water." A beat of silence passed before he continued. "Dorn Castles main water source is the nearby river. I know that castle wellit''s wells arent deep enough to sustain a force for long. Theyll need that river. A force as large as his drinks more than it eats. They might be able to find food, but water?" A slow, knowing smile crept onto his lips. "Thats something we can control." He turned his head slightly, eyes settling on one of the blood drinkers standing at the back of the tent. "Tell them to go. Poison the river. Make sure its done discreetly. If they drink, they die. If they dont drink" He shrugged nonchalantly. They still die. Shakran looked back and nodded, giving them the command. The blood drinker bowed his head and slipped out without a word. Moving smoothly and out of sight. Lucian leaned back, a satisfied smirk still on his face. Shakran watched him for a moment before stretching, rolling his shoulders lazily. "Looks like its time for me to go as well," he said. "Since your brothers shaping up to be such fun, I should make sure Im well-prepared for the battle." Lucian gave a curt nod, but as Shakran turned to leave, he lifted a hand, stopping him. "And if you manage to kill him," Lucian said. "His body is yours." Shakran stilled for a moment before glancing over his shoulder, a sharp grin spreading across his face. "No proper burial?" "I just want to see him dead. I dont care anymore." Shakran nodded slowly, amusement flashing in his crimson eyes. "Then youll get your wish, Duke." With that, he disappeared into the night. *** Lord Vensar swept his gaze across the villagers kneeling before him, their wrists bound tightly with rope. The villagers were battered. Their faces were filled with dirt, some tear-stained and others blank with silent resignation. He stood before his warhorse, his domineering size and sharp eyes enough to make even the most challenging among them lower their heads. More villagers were dragged forwardthose who had cowered in their homes, those foolish enough to attempt escape. His soldiers moved efficiently, yanking them out one by one, throwing them to their knees alongside the others. The village of Hallowmere had been an easy conquest. Located on the very edge of Arzans territory, it was little more than a collection of wooden huts surrounded by a feeble palisade, which had splintered under his mens assault in mere minutes. After that, the fight had been nothing more than a formality. With their defenses shattered and morale nonexistent, the villagers had surrendered without spilling a drop of his soldiers blood. A small gift for Duke Kellius. Lord Vensar allowed himself a satisfied smirk. The Duke had called for the noble houses loyal to him to converge on House Dorns castle for the coming war. But along the way, Vensar had decided to capture this village as a show of goodwill. A small yet strategic offeringone he was sure the Duke would appreciate. "Well rest here for the night," he declared, his voice moving over the restless murmurs of his men. "Come dawn, we march for the castle." A crunch of hurried footsteps pulled his attention. A scout dripping with sweat stumbled toward him. The man barely slowed before dropping from his horse and kneeling, his face pale with horror. "My Lord," he gasped, breathless, "My Lord! A large army is moving toward us from the west!" Vensar stiffened, eyes narrowing. "What?" "Its true, my Lord!" the scout insisted. "I was circling the village, checking for any stragglers, when I heard ita thundering sound. The earth itself trembled beneath me." He swallowed, his throat dry, before continuing. "When I crept closer, I saw theman army of beasts." Vensars grip on his reins tightened. "Beasts?" "Yes, my Lord! Large men rode atop them, moving fast like horsesheading straight for the village! They werent horses my Lord!" This couldn''t be Arzan''s forces. They couldn''t travel so fast to be here, and by the latest news he had gotten, they seemed to be preparing for a confrontation at Dorn Cattle. And yet Beasts. Large men riding them. His mind whirred through possibilities before snapping to one conclusion. His jaw clenched. They had a known encampment near this region, ond he had left untouched, knowing that without proper forces, an extermination attempt would have been costly. House Kellius had been meant to deal with them, but the fief war had delayed that effort. So why now? Why were they suddenly charging toward this village? His eyes flicked back to the terrified scout. "Rally the men," he ordered sharply. "Now." Lord Vensar swallowed the unease bubbling in his chest, forcing his shoulders to remain squared as he strode toward the palisade. His heavy boots crunched against the dirt, his soldiers parting before him as he climbed the wooden steps to get a better view. He reached the topand his breath hitched. The scout had not been lying. Beyond the palisade, hundreds of barbarians loomed in the distance, their massive mounts shifting restlessly beneath them. Their approach had been slow like a noose tightening around the village. The moonlight caught the gleam of their weaponswicked axes and brutal swords, each one sharp enough to carve through steel. Vensar had read the reports. He had heard the stories of their brute strength, of their impossible resilience in battle. Even the kingdoms forces, armed with Archine Tower Mages, had struggled to deal with them. But knowing of their ferocity was one thingstaring it in the face was another. His pulse quickened. Some of the barbarians met his gaze from a distance. Their eyes burned with something primaldetermination, bloodlust, an unshakable will to fight. It was like looking into the abyss itself. Still, he was a noble of the kingdom. A man versed in war. He would not let them see his fear. Squaring his shoulders once again, he raised his voice. "Barbarians!" His words rang out over the silent field. "You are surrounding a village that I, Lord Vensar, have taken in the name of Duke Kellius during this fief war. You have no stake in this battle. I advise you to turn back now, lest you face the wrath of my army!" A few chuckles rumbled from the mass of warriors. Then, one of them spurred his mount forward. Vensars stomach clenched as the largest barbarian of them all emerged from their ranks. A behemoth of a man, his muscles coiled with raw power, his skin marked with war tattoos. Even on top of his beast, he towered over everyone present. "I am Chieftain Yafgar of the great Lombards!" His words echoed like rolling thunder. "And running away is not in our nature!" A chorus of cheers erupted from the warriors behind him, their laughter carrying over the wind. Some threw their weapons in the air. Yafgars lips curled into a sharp grin. "The wrath of your army? I would love to see it for myself!" The barbarians roared in approval, their voices a jagged symphony of bloodlust and anticipation. The night air vibrated with their cries, a primal sound that sent a shiver crawling up Vensars spine. Their mountshulking, tusked beasts with glowing eyes and bull-like creatures, probably strength toostomped the earth, nostrils flaring as they picked up the scent of imminent battle. Vensars hands curled into fists, his mind racing. He needed to think. Fast. Could he negotiate? Stall for time? The Lombords were a savage people, but they werent mindless beasts. If he could just A sudden roar split the air, raw and guttural, like the earth itself was howling in fury. Vensars thoughts shattered as flames erupted from Yafgars body as he jumped right in front of his beast. It wasnt a trick of the light. It wasnt a mere battle aura. Nofire, real and all-consuming, coiled around the chieftains arms and legs. The heat rolled off him in waves, warping the air, turning his silhouette into a godlike figure. His weaponstwo massive battle-axes, wickedly curved and crusted with old bloodcaught the firelight, their edges gleaming like fangs bared in a snarl. For a brief, foolish moment, Vensar thought that he was simply seeing things. But then the ground around him seemed to blacken, grass burning in an instant. No trick. No illusion. Yafgar was wreathed in flame, and the battlefield itself was about to burn. Then he charged. The ground trembled. Not metaphoricallyliterally. The sheer weight of the barbarians charge sent vibrations racing through the earth, rattling bones and knocking dust loose from the wooden barricade. "Shields up!" Vensar bellowed, though his heart was pounding in his ears. His brain was telling him to run, but he couldnt. He wouldnt. "Mages, fire now!" The air shifted as bolts of searing fire lanced forward, streaking toward the chieftain like falling stars. Light flaredblinding, scorching. Spells detonated against Yafgars body with the force of miniature explosions, sending shockwaves rippling outward. For a heartbeat, Vensar dared to hope. Then, through the smoke and flashing light, he saw him still coming. Yafgar didnt stop. Didnt falter. Didnt even slow down. The spells had struck him, but the flames around his body devoured the fire like kindling, reducing the attacks to mere sparks. And thenimpact. The world split apart. Yafgar crashed into the wooden wall like a meteor, his sheer force ripping through the palisade as if it were parchment. The structure didnt just breakit exploded. Wood splintered into little pieces. The very force of the collision sent Vensar flying backward, his body weightless for a terrifying second before slamming into the groundhe heard his bones break. For a moment, the world spun. His ears rang. His vision blurred. Pain. Dirt. Smoke. He groaned, pushing himself up, his muscles protesting every movement. His head throbbed as he forced his eyes open. And then his blood ran cold. A massive hole gaped in the palisade. Smoke curled from the edges, twisting into the night sky like phantom fingers. And standing in its centerbathed in flames, unscathed, unstoppablewas Yafgar. H-h-how His burning gaze locked onto Vensar, the heat radiating off of him in waves. He lifted his axe high, its edges glowing red-hot from the heat. "You will fall before the might of the Lombards! Right. Now." Then the ground shook again. Beyond the burning wreckage, more barbarians surged forward. They didnt hesitate, didnt pause. They stepped through the broken wall as if it were nothing more than a doorway. It might as well have been just a doorway. Vensars breath hitched. His heart pounded like a war drum, his mind clawing for a way out. But the realization slammed into him like a tight slap across his face. He wasnt going to make it to Duke Kellius. Hell, he wasnt going to make it out of here at all. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 179. Taking out nobles (1) Yafgar stood in the middle of the carnage, his broad chest rising and falling in slow breaths. Around him, bodies lay sprawled across the dirt, limbs twisted at unnatural angles, their blood soaking into the earth like a final offering to the battlefield. Some had died cleanlyone precise cut, one swift strikebut others had been less fortunate, their bodies bearing the brutal evidence of the Lombards'' fury. Pride swelled his chest, but his mind was occupied. He lifted his battle-axe and ran a calloused hand along its edge, wiping away the thick, crimson coating that still clung to the blade. The weapon groaned under his grip, still warm from the slaughter. He exhaled through his nose, watching as the blood dripped onto the broken ground beneath him, mixing with the ashes of burning homes. Too easy. The nobles forces had barely put up a fight. Yafgar had expected resistance, had hoped for warriors worthy of his steel, but what he had found instead were men too soft, too unprepared for true battle. A disappointing display. They had been caught off guard, yeshis warriors had struck swiftly, tearing through their defenses before they had a chance to reactbut a true soldier, a true leader, was always prepared for war. This noble had been weak, complacent, too reliant on his title to shield him from the blade. And so, he had been defeated. Another stain wiped clean from the land. Yafgar tightened his grip around his axe and glanced toward the burning remains of the village. Their attack had sent the villagers scattering, their terrified cries piercing through the battle before vanishing into the shadows. Some had fled beyond the fields, others had barricaded themselves inside their homes, praying for mercy. He wondered how many of them had ever lifted a blade before todayhow many had spent their lives under the nobles rule, blind to the harsh truths of the world. Fools. A lot of them. But no matter what he thought of them, Yafgar had promised to keep them safe. A faint sound reached his earsfootsteps cutting through the crackle of fire and the distant groans of the dying. Yafgar turned his head, his gaze falling upon a familiar figure approaching him. Ragnar. His son strode forward with purpose, his eyes narrowed in determination, though there was an edge of something else beneath itfatigue, perhaps. A part of his armor had been burned, the darkened metal scorched from fire. It did not slow him. The boy was strong. Resilient. And he had done everything to prove himself back to Lombards. Another pang of pride swelled his chest, but he remained neutral. Yafgar did not speak immediately, waiting as Ragnar came to a stop before him. His sons voice was steady when he finally spoke. "We were able to deal with all the enemies, chieftain," Ragnar reported. "Those who surrendered have been taken as captives. The rest, those who refused, have been sent to the cycle of reincarnation." A clean way of saying they had been cut down where they stood. Ragnar hesitated only briefly before continuing. "What are your orders regarding the villagers? Many ran when the attack began, but there are others still hiding in their homes, afraid of us." Yafgar did not answer at once. Instead, his sharp gaze trailed over Ragnars form, settling on the burn marks marring his armor. The edges of the plate were still blackened, the metal warped in places. His lips pressed into a thin line. "Are you hurt?" The question seemed to catch Ragnar off guard. He blinked once, his lips pressing together as if to keep himself from showing any weakness. Then, after a brief pause, he bit his lip and shook his head. "No," he said firmly. "The potions Lord Arzans men provided healed my burns." Yafgar studied him for a moment longer, searching for any sign of falsehood, but found none. Ragnar would not lie about such a thing. If he said he was fine, then he was fine. Still, the fact that he had needed healing at all left a sour taste in Yafgars mouth. Arzans men had provided them with potions, yes, but that did not mean his warriors should grow reliant on them. A true Lombard fought through the pain, embraced it, let it fuel them. If Ragnar had suffered burns, he should have worn them as a mark of honornot erased them with alchemy. But Yafgar held his tongue. This was not the time for such lessons. He looked at the sky where dark flames still scorched. They had a nasty Blessed One among them, Ragnar said, groaning with frustration. A fire-wielder. Me and my men took him on, but he didnt fall easily. It took timehe kept slinging flames at us, setting the ground ablaze, forcing us to split up. His magic made the battlefield a living inferno, but we cut him down in the end. Yafgars eyes darkened slightly. He turned his gaze back to Ragnar. Any casualties? Ragnar exhaled sharply. Not many. Only three. His fingers curled into fists before he forced them to relax. Most of us survivedeven while taking on a Blessed One. And not just survived, Father. We fought like never before. He hesitated, his expression troubled. I havent seen our men like this ever. They had no restraint. Like something inside them had been unshackled. Yafgar studied his son, the faint flicker of unease in his voice. He understood what Ragnar meant. The Lombards had always been fierce, but what they displayed tonight was beyond raw battle lust. They have unlocked a new depth of power, Yafgar said, nodding. Something potent, something that was always inside them, but buried beneath doubt and chains they didnt even know existed. Now, that restraint is gone. He glanced toward the remnants of the battlefield, the bodies of the nobles warriors littering the ground. Though they have not unlocked the elements as I have, they possess a reservoir of strength. A raw, untapped force that will only grow as this fief war continues. Ragnar remained silent, his lips pressing into a thin line. Yafgar narrowed his eyes slightly before continuing. But power without control is a blade without a handle. A weapon that cuts its own master. He leveled a steady gaze at his son. You must ensure they do not go out of bounds. Strength means nothing if it turns into arrogance. And there are always stronger men out there. Ragnars eyes hardened, understanding dawning in his eyes. He inclined his head. I understand. Yafgar nodded once, satisfied. Then, his gaze flickered toward the ruined village, toward the homes where frightened eyes watched from behind cracked shutters and trembling fingers clutched at rusted knives. Speak with the villagers, he commanded. Make it clear we are not here to plunder or slaughter them. If they resist, just slap them up. But if they submit, they will be left unharmed. He turned back to Ragnar. We will be moving at dawn to join Lord Arzan. Let them know that by morning, they will no longer have to fear us. Ragnar gave a firm nod, stepping back, ready to carry out the order. But before he could turn away, Yafgars voice cut through the space between them once more. Also, the chieftain added, making Ragnar turn around, fetch the noble we captured. Have him brought by a horse. Ragnar frowned slightly but did not question. You want him alive? We are soon to meet the man under whom the Lombards will march, Yafgar said, a knowing glint in his eyes. And it would be rude to arrive empty-handed. A gift is in order. For a brief moment, Ragnar said nothing. Then, his lips curled into the ghost of a smirk. I understand, he said simply. With that, he turned, his steps carrying him into the darkness, leaving Yafgar alone amidst the wreckage. The chieftain exhaled, looking one last time at the bodies around him. Weak men. But they had served their purpose. They had tested the Lombards. And the Lombards had passed. *** Feroy rode at the head of his column, the constant thrum of hooves against the earth echoing behind him. Three hundred warriors followed in disciplined formation, their ranks unbroken as they went through fields, rocky outcrops, and dense patches of woodland. They moved like a tide rolling across the land, sweeping toward their destinationHouse Xandhir. Out of the four houses thatd sworn their loyalty to Lucian since the very beginning. His orders were clear. After the decisive battle of Verdis, he had been tasked with leading a formidable force to crush the noble house before it could merge with Lucians army. A tall order by any means, but Feroy did not feel even the slightest twinge of doubt. If anything, anticipation thrummed in his veins. Adrenaline rushed to every part of his body. Victory was only a matter of time. It wasnt just his own certainty that fueled him. His men, too, carried themselves with the same confidence of warriors who knew they would not break. This was not arrogance. They had all been briefed on the strategy, they knew their roles, and they bore the latest innovation of Balens geniusLightwood armor. The finely crafted set, enchanted and reinforced, was lighter than steel yet offered the same protection. It moved with them, rather than against them. Feroy had no doubt that their preparation, their strength, and their equipment would see them through. As they crossed a wide stretch of plains, the wind shifted, carrying with it the scent of churned earth. Feroy narrowed his eyes as a dust cloud swirled into the sky ahead. Instinct clenched his gut. An army. Only an army could raise such a vast plume of dust. He reined in his horse sharply, the beast skidding slightly before coming to a halt. Behind him, his men obeyed immediately, the entire column slowing in perfect unison. Silence stretched for a heartbeat as Feroys gaze sharpened, his enhanced senses locking onto the figures emerging from the dust. His eyes traced the gleaming armor, the banners fluttering against the wind. And then, there it wasthe crest emblazoned on their tabards, standing bold against the steel. House Xandhir. A sigil of a roaring wyvern, its wings outstretched as if poised to strike, surrounded by a wreath of golden laurels. The noble house''s pride was evident in the embroidery, the deep crimson of the banner standing bold against the pale backdrop of dust and sky. Feroy felt a grin tug at his lips. He turned his horse, facing his men. The moment weve been waiting for has arrived, he declared. The enemy stands before us. His gaze swept over the warriorsfaces set, hands gripping weapons, bodies thrumming with restrained energy. You all know what must be done. He unsheathed his blade, the steel catching the fading light. Now, lets remind them why House Xandhir made the wrong choice. Feroys grin widened as he raised his voice once more. "We need to show them that we are the best cavalry in the entire kingdom! Do you understand?" A thunderous roar of affirmation rang out. "Yes, Knight Feroy!" The energy was palpable as it was contagious, a wave of fervor rippling through the ranks. Feroys gaze flickered to Bord, his second-in-command, standing ready at his side. "Get everyone in formation," Feroy commanded. "Well be clashing soon." Bord nodded sharply, spurring his horse into motion as he rode down the line, barking orders. The cavalry shifted seamlessly into position, lances and blades at the ready. Feroy turned his attention back to the approaching army. The dust had settled enough to see them more clearly nowrows upon rows of cavalry standing beneath House Xandhirs crimson banners. As their forces ground to a halt, he nudged his horse forward, bridging the distance between them. "State your allegiance and your purpose here!" The man who was at the front yelled loud enough for even the people at the back to hear. Feroy smiled at that. Im Knight Feroy Derone, serving Count Arzan of Veralt. I have come here with my forces to annihilate House Xandhir if they dont surrender right now! This shall be considered as the final warning! As he gave them the warning, he stood and waited for their response. A chuckle rippled through the enemy ranks. Then came outright laughter, some soldiers exchanging amused glances as if they had just heard the most ridiculous joke. Feroy showed no surprise, watching as a lone figure broke from their formation and rode forward. The man had a gleaming crimson plate, he could say that it was a deadly set of armor. The elegant craftsmanship was undeniable, the embellishments hinting at both wealth and power. His presence alone commanded respect, his bearing that of a noble warrior he couldnt say yet. The man raised a gauntleted hand, silencing his troops with nothing but the gesture. Then, he turned his gaze upon Feroy, a sneer twisting his lips. "I had not expected Count Arzan to be so foolish," he said, his voice rich with condescension. "To send his men to their deaths so carelessly... What a waste." He tilted his head slightly, as if studying a child playing at war. "Do you truly believe your meager forces can survive a clash against my thousands?" He let the words hang for a moment, letting them sink in before continuing. "I will give you one opportunitysurrender now, and I shall only take your head. Your men, I will spare." His sneer deepened. "I swear it on my name, Viscount Malyr the second of House Xandhir." Silence stretched for a moment, the only sound the rustling of banners in the wind. The viscount sat there expectantly, as if fully expecting Feroy to dismount, bend the knee, and accept his fate. Instead, Feroy let out a short, sharp scoff. "Very well, Viscount Malyr the second," he said. "Youve chosen deathfor yourself and your men." He turned his horse slightly, just enough to glance over his shoulder at his warriors. Their gazes burned with anticipation, waiting for the signal. "Are you ready?" "YES!" The response came like a hammer striking an anvil, their voices roaring in unison. Feroy smirked. "Good." As he turned back to face the enemy, he caught sight of the viscount issuing commands of his own, his men shifting into formation for an inevitable charge. Unfortunately for him, he had no idea what was coming. Feroy tightened his grip on the reins, feeling the weight of his enchanted Lightwood armorthe sturdy craftsmanship, the perfectly balanced blend of mobility and protection. A marvel of Balens genius. He exhaled, a quiet promise slipping from his lips. "Ill get you another victory, Lord Arzan." *** A sudden gust of wind swept across the battlefield, rustling the banners and carrying a sharp chill through the air. Viscount Malyr shudderedjust for a momentbefore shaking his head. His green eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the sorry excuse of a force that stood a good pace away from his own. No matter how he turned it over in his mind, he couldnt understand why Count Arzan had sent these men here to die. More importantly, why hadnt they fled? They had eyes, didnt they? They could see his armytwo thousand strong, a force that could crush them underfoot like insects. Yet, despite the sheer difference in numbers, they stood their ground. No sign of hesitation. No fear of death in their eyes. It didnt make sense. Was it a trap? Were they simply suicidal? S~ea??h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The Viscounts fingers twitched against the reins of his horse as he mulled over the possibilities, but no answer came. A familiar presence rode up beside him. His trusted knight; Knight Serian, leaned in slightly, voice low. "Lord Malyr, do you think were falling into a trap?" The Viscount glanced at him, frowning. The same thought had crossed his mind, but "I dont know," he admitted, his upper lip curling into a sneer. "I see no way this could be a trap." He gestured toward the landscape with a sweeping motion. "Look around you. Were on open ground. Theres nowhere for additional forces to hide. And I see no Mages among their ranks." His voice hardened. "Even if they had one or two, theyd need someone on Magus Verdias level to pose a real threat to us." Knight Serian nodded, but his unease didnt fade. His gaze lowered to the earth beneath them. "What about the ground?" he muttered. "Could there be a trap beneath us?" Viscount Malyr cast a wary glance at the ground before shaking his head. "I don''t think so. We saw them moving towards us the entire way. None of them got close enough to dig any trenches or lay traps. No matter how much I think about it, this just seems like pure stupidity." His knight exhaled loudly before responding. "Yes, but Count Arzan is the opposite of that." "Maybe," Malyr admitted with a slight scowl. "But not long ago, he was just known as the shadow of his brother. His troops have been racking up victories lately, so perhaps they''ve grown arrogantconvinced they can handle us. Youve heard the rumors, havent you? Mortal men fighting like Mages, wielding enchanted weapons and armor. Maybe theyre just too confident in that." Serian hesitated before nodding. "Maybe." "Either way, were not retreating." Malyr straightened in his saddle. "Our numbers are overwhelming. Even if there is a trap, well face it head-on." With a sharp nod, the Knight turned, barking orders to the men. Soldiers adjusted their grips on weapons, tightened their formations, and prepared to charge. Malyr swept his gaze over his ranks before raising his sword high. "Men, we are going to tear through their ranks!" he bellowed. "Get ready!" YES! A thunderous, earth shattering roar erupted from his army as hooves pounded against the earth, shields locked into place, and spears gleamed in the sunlight. Both the armies moved with the intention to destroy. For a brief moment, he met Feroys gaze across the battlefield. The knight''s helmet obscured most of his face, but his eyes His eyes gleamed with something unnatural. Something sinister. The Viscounts grip on his reins tightened as an inexplicable sense of dread clawed at his chest. . Then Feroys voice rang across the battlefield. Now!" The Viscount barely had time to react before it happened. Suddenly, a brilliant, massive glow erupted from the enemys armor. The seals carved into their enchanted plating came to life, pulsing with some otherworldly energy. A wave of light spread like wildfire, jumping from one soldier to the next, engulfing the battlefield in a blinding white radiance. The Viscounts breath hitched as the world became nothing but light. Instinctively, he shut his eyes. And then A sharp, searing pain tore through his body. His mouth opened in a soundless gasp as something pierced him. Cold. Deep. Fatal. He barely had time to comprehend it before the darkness consumed everything. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 180. Taking out nobles (2) Feroy felt a rush of power spread through him and his men. It was too bright and powerful. The aethum core in his chestplate hummed violently as the Blinding Seals activated. A bright white light exploded across the battlefield, covering everything in its glow. In the next second, panicked shouts filled the air. Not just that, triggered horses neighed wildly, rearing up as their riders cried out in confusion. Blinded by the sudden light, many soldiers covered their eyes or waved their weapons uselessly. On the other hand, Feroy and his forces were prepared. Their helmets had special visorsDusk Shieldsthat let them see through the blinding glow. Balen even had managed to create a similar kind for each and every horseto avoid any sort of unnecessary trouble. Feroy immediately took the chance of the enemy being blinded. Charge! he shouted. His men stormed forward, cutting down enemies who couldnt even see them coming. Spears pierced through armor, swords slashed through flesh, and the battlefield turned into chaos. I cant see! an enemy soldier screamed. Help me! another shouted before being struck down. Feroy tore through the carnage, his spear a blur of death. Each strike hammered into flesh, cutting men down ruthlesslynothing held him back. His men were no differentthere was no mercy in their eyes. Spears, shields, swords, arrows, and daggers all joined in the bloodbath, painting the ground red. Everywhere Feroy looked, men were falling, horses crashing, and the desperate screams of those begging for their lives filled the air. It happened too fasttoo violently. In the span of moments, a force of two thousand men and horses had been driven back, and the slaughter began. His men didnt hesitate. They ripped through the enemy with a savagery that could only be born from the certainty of victory. Afterall, a blinded enemy was nothing more than a corpse waiting to happen. Feroy didnt even need his powers as an Enforcer. His spear sliced through blood-soaked air, carving through bone, flesh, and beating hearts, leaving a trail of mangled bodies right after. His fingers gripped the reins of his horse, pulling it around as he watched the chaos unfoldmen screaming, dying, blood splattering against the earth. Then, he caught sight of some enemy soldiers whod managed to escape the worst of it. They were turning, fleeing. Feroys eyes locked onto Bord, his sword sinking deep into a mans throat, earning a loud scream. Blood splurged from the fallen guys mouth, and even eyes. Bord! Hunt them down! Bords eyes flicked up, his eyes hard and wild. With a loud grunt, he gathered a few men and shot off after the retreating cowards. Feroy didnt slow down. He pressed on, cutting down the men who begged for mercy or a quick death, their pleas lost in the beautiful sound of the battle. One after another, they crumpled to the earth, lifeless. His gaze snapped to the ground, catching sight of someone through the blood-soaked chaos. A man, sprawled beneath fallen horses, crushed by their weight and the bodies of the wounded. Blood stained his armor, dark and thick, and a spear jutted from his stomach, the point glistening with crimson. The Viscount. Feroy hadnt even seen him during the battle. He must have fallen early. From the way his eyes were closed with his body sprawled like thatFeroy wondered if he was dead. But, Lord Arzan had ordered him to be captured, not killed. Even though every cell of his body would have liked to leave him to die, orders were orders. Urging his horse forward, he dodged past swinging blades and rearing horses until he reached the fallen man. With a single motion, he pulled the Viscount up onto his saddle. The man groaned weakly, still alive but badly hurt. Feroy grabbed a small vial from his belt, uncorked it, and forced a few drops into the viscounts mouth. The potion would keep him alive long enough to be tied up. Glancing back at the battlefield, Feroy saw that the enemy was slowly recovering. But it was too late for them. Less than a quarter of their army remained, and Feroys forces hadnt lost a single man. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Victory was already theirs. As Feroy sat on his horse, surveying the battlefield, two men suddenly charged at him. Their eyes burned with fury as they shouted, Give us back our lord! Feroy barely spared them a glance. With a swift movement, he blocked their attack with his spear, then shoved them back with enough force to unseat them. Their horses reared in panic, but before they could recover, Feroy struck their mounts down, sending both men crashing to the ground. Without hesitation, he urged his own horse forward, its heavy hooves stomping down on the fallen enemies. The battlefield was almost silent now, save for the groans of the wounded and the ones who still fought with all their might. Feroy scanned the field and then raised his voice for all to hear. Anyone who surrenders now will be spared! You will be taken as political prisoners until the fief war is over. Any resistance will lead to your deathjust like your comrades! That earned more silence than before as the enemy soldiers clad in crimson plates hesitated, looking back and forth between the men who were still alive. Feroy saw how their hands tightened around their weapons, a silent conversation passed between them wondering whether to give up or continue. But they soon came to the right decision. The last three hundred of them dropped their weapons to the ground in unison, and raised their hands in surrender. Feroy smirked and lifted his spear high. We have won! A loud triumphant cheer erupted from his men. They had fought without losing a single soldier, and their victory was absolute. We did it! It was fucking easy! Look at them bow now! Long live Lord Arzan!! The men shouted, one after another. Just then, Feroy spotted Bord riding back with a few of his men. Their weapons dripped with fresh blood. Even before Bord spoke, Feroy knew his task had been completed. Bord stopped beside him and grinned. I killed all the fleeing men. his grin expanded as he showed around. I have to say, Ive never seen or heard a battle end this quickly. The bards will have a good year with their stories after this fief war. Feroy nodded. For sure. But its not over yet. Bord tilted his head. Whats next? Feroy paused for a moment, then smiled. We move to raid House Xandhir. The Viscount and his forces are done, but they might still have reinforcements left. Lord Arzan doesnt want any loose ends. Well make sure the whole Sylvan Enclave is under our lords control. Bord smirked. Sounds like a plan to me. *** A small army of men rode swiftly across the open plains, heading toward the fortified city at the edge of the Sylvan Enclave. Their horses galloped hard, kicking up clouds of dust that trailed behind them like a storm. The soldiers wore battered green armor, its once-proud metal now cracked and broken. The crest of House Dyerich was barely visible through the dirt and blood that stained their plates. They were in a hurry. Their horses hooves thundered against the earth as they raced toward the city''s towering walls. But as they neared the entrance, the archers stationed above quickly took aim. "Halt, or you will be shot down!" one of the guards shouted. The riders pulled on their reins, their horses slowing to a stop just outside the gates. One man stepped forward, his voice urgent and shaky as he called out, "We need to meet Baron Kairnso immediately!" The archers exchanged wary glances before the same guard called back, "Why? State your business!" The soldier took a deep breath and shouted, "We were ambushed on our way to join Duke Lucians forces! Count Arzans men attacked us. We barely escaped with our lives!" Immediately murmurs spread among the men on the wall. The tension in the air grew thick, the archers gripping their bows tighter. Finally, the guard at the front narrowed his eyes and asked, "Where is Knight Serian? He was leading your force." The soldiers expression darkened. "Hes dead," he said grimly and wiped his nose from the back of hishand. He marched forward. "He fell in battle, along with the rest of our men. We werent even able to recover their bodies. Please, let us in!" The guard hesitated, glancing at his fellow soldiers. A heavy silence filled the space between them. Then, after a long pause, he nodded. "Wait here." A moment later, the heavy wooden gates groaned open, allowing the weary riders to pass through. As they entered the city, the archers climbed down from their posts, their eyes scanning the wounded men. Blood stained their armor, and some of them looked pale, barely able to stay upright on their horses. The soldier at the front turned to the guard. "Please, my men need healing. They wont last much longer." The guard took in the sight of their injuries and gave a short nod. "Well call for the healers. My men will take care of them." He then gestured toward the castle in the distance. "But first, you need to go with me. Baron Kairnso must hear about this immediately." The soldier nodded. "Of course." Without wasting another second, the guard led him through the city streets, past rows of stone buildings and bustling city folks who paused to watch the bloodied warrior pass. They made their way toward a small castle at the citys center, its stone walls sturdy and imposing. The guard exchanged a few words with a butler at the entrance, who then guided them through a series of barely lit up corridors. The castle smelled of burning candles and parchment, the faint scent of wine lingering in the air. Finally, they reached a heavy wooden door, and the butler knocked twice before pushing it open. Inside, Baron Kairnso sat at a polished table, his pudgy fingers wrapped around a goblet of wine. His face twisted into an annoyed scowl as he looked up. "What is it now? His gaze shifted from the butler, to the guard and finally, to the bloodied soldier standing before him. He frowned. "Are you one of the men I sent to aid Duke Lucian?" The soldier stepped forward and bowed. "Yes, my lord. Knight Serian led us, but" He clenched his fists, his voice lowering. "We were attacked. Count Arzans forces ambushed us on the way. Our men were annihilated." Baron Kairnsos frown deepened. His fingers tightened around the goblet as he leaned forward. What exactly happened? The soldier took a slow, shuddering breath, his face pale with exhaustion. He kneeled on the floor unable to keep up his body. We were on our way to join Duke Lucians forces when we spotted a cavalry unit approachingCount Arzans men. There werent many of them, so we engaged, thinking we had a chance. He hesitated, eyes shadowed with something close to fear. But just before we clashed they started burning. Baron Kairnsos brows shot up. Burning? The soldier gave a stiff nod. As if they were demons from hell itself. Flames erupted over them, swallowing their armor, their horses but they didnt scream. They didnt fall. They just kept charging at us, wreathed in fire, untouched by their own flames. A shiver ran through the room. The guard and the butler standing nearby exchanged uneasy glances. The scent of burnt leather and flesh still clung to the scorched soldiers armor, the metal blackened and warped from the heat. Baron Kairnso slammed his goblet onto the table. What do you mean, a burning cavalry? Didnt they burn themselves? The soldier shook his head, his jaw tightening. No, my lord. They seemed unaffected. Their armor didnt even seem to get heated. Baron Kairnso cursed under his breath, his face twisting with frustration and he stood up. What the fuck is going on here? He ran a hand through his thinning hair, pacing across the room. Then, turning sharply, he fixed the soldier with a hard stare. Are you sure they didnt chase you? The soldier shook his head again. No, my lord. We took a different route, curved around the main roads, and hid in caves to avoid them. They didnt follow. Kairnso nodded, but the worry on his face did not fade. He started pacing again, his boots clicking against the stone floor. He felt the tension of the room increase by a few degrees. The guard finally spoke. What are we going to do now, my lord? Do we still prepare the reinforcements we were sending after Knight Serian? Kairnso stopped mid-step, exhaling sharply. Then, with a sudden snap, he turned on the man. Hell if I know! The room fell silent. His scowl deepened as he gestured sharply, his frustration spilling out. Do your insignificant peasant brain even realize whats happening here? A Duke and a Count are fightingusing their ancestral forces, their magical powersto crush each other! And in the middle of it all, Im getting ground into dust like a damn pebble! His words echoed through the chamber. The air was heavy with an unspoken truthone none of them wanted to face. Then, from the other side of the room, the scorched soldier spoke up, his voice hoarse but steady. Then why did you agree to join the fief war, Baron Kairnso? Kairnso scoffed, a dry, humorless laugh escaping him. Do you think I had a choice? He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. Do you fucking think I had a choice?! he repeated himself as if no one heard him before. House Kellius has ruled the Sylvan Enclave for centuries. The soldier hesitated before speaking again. But House Redmont chose to stay neutral. The tension in the air was palpable as Kairnso sneered at the scorched man, his voice dripping with disdain. "What do you know? I choose the best possible way, and I don''t need to hear anything from a soldier who ran away from battle! Arzans forces might not have killed you, but I will if you use that tongue too much." The scorched mans lips twitched, his face twisted in amusement. Without a word, he threw his head back and let out a low, eerie chuckle. Baron Kairnso froze on the spot, furrowing his brow in confusion, wondering why the man was laughing. As he did, the scorched man suddenly removed his helmet with one swift motion. Kairnsos eyes widened as a sharp, handsome face with a scar running down his neck came into view, framed by dark hair, blue eyes and a bright, unsettling smile. The tremor that was beforegone. This man looked borderline crazy with a grin on his face. Kairnso instinctively took a step back, his instincts telling him that something was wrong. Are you really one of my soldiers? He asked, voice trembling. The man caught Kairnsos confused expression and chuckled again. Im sorry. I forgot, a nobleman like you would never be able to remember the faces of his own soldiers. I guess it was easier to get in here due to that. The words hit Kairnso like a dagger to the chest, draining the color from his face as his jaw went slack. His mind raced as he struggled to process the implications of the mans words. Who who are you? Kairnso stammered, his heart hammering in his chest. The scorched mans grin widened, and with a flourish, he replied, Knight Talon, serving Count Arzan. Its nice to meet you, Baron Kairnso. Kairnsos face looked like he had eaten shit. A cold sweat broke out on his brow as he stumbled backward, his eyes darting toward the guard and butler, who were now both visibly tense. Before Kairnso could make another sound, Talon moved. In an instant, two short swords whistled through the air. One struck the guard in the neck, the other embedding itself in the butlers chest. He dragged the short sword from the guard and held it in his hands as the two men fell lifeless to the ground, blood splattering across Talon and Kairnso. Talon wiped the blood that was on his forehead and it smudged all over his face. He didnt care. Kairnso, now utterly paralyzed by fear, found himself on the floor, the window looming just behind him. His mouth moved in vain, no words escaping as he gasped for breath, his body trembling uncontrollably. Talon took slow steps toward him, his boots silent on the cold stone floor. Youre much more of a coward than what Ansel reported. Kairnso, now frantic, scooted back across the floor, wanting to put as much distance as he could from the lunatic man, his hands bracing himself against the cold stone as he scrambled. His breath came in ragged gasps, his body trembling with panic. You wont get away with this, he spat. Ill have you killed. My men will tear you apart and save me. Youll never make it out of the city. Talons laughter was low and mocking, the sound of it echoing in Kairnsos ears. He stepped closer. I really dont think so, Talon replied smoothly. You know why? Kairnsos eyes narrowed, defiance flickering in them, but he said nothing. His mind raced, struggling to piece together what Talon was saying, but the words didnt make sense. Talon didnt seem worried in the slightest. Because I didnt come here alone, Talon continued, his voice almost playful. And those who I came here with? Led by a woman named Lyra. Shes icy cold, silver hairah, scary to look at when shes in the mood for blood. And she She is someone who will complete her job no matter what. And do you know what job I gave her? Before Kairnso could respond, a faint glow caught his eye through the window. His eyes widened as he turned to look outside, his heart dropping into his stomach. Cold icy mist was rising high into the sky, a terrifying icy inferno consuming the city he had once controlled. His breath caught in his throat, a mixture of disbelief and horror flooding through him. What the. Talons smile deepened, the satisfaction in his eyes unmistakable. It seems like youve already lost before you even began properly. Kairnsos face paled further, his mind spiraling in panic, but Talon wasnt finished. Thank you for making this easy by not going with your main force. You were too much of a coward to think that far ahead. Now, let me wrap you up nicely, so I can present my lord with a nice gift. Afterall, I owe him the best. His voice was a chilling whisper as he crouched down to Kairnsos level. The Baron opened his mouth, about to beg or curse, but before any words could escape, Talons fist landed squarely on his face, cutting off the sound as Kairnso crumpled to the ground, unconscious. Talon straightened, wiping his bloodied knuckles with a casual gesture as he looked down at the fallen Baron. My jobs over, he murmured to himself with a satisfied smile, then turned on his heel and walked toward the door, leaving the chaos of the frozen city in the distance. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 181. Kraken’s meal Shakran looked down at the man crouching on the floor, his eyes wide with terror as he stared up at him. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest rising and falling with each trembling exhale. The blood drinker tilted his head, curious. Was he afraid for himself? Regretful of something he had done? Perhaps thoughts of his family crossed his mind, the realization that he would never see them again? Or had he not yet grasped the gravity of the situation? That death was right in front of himnot as a soldier on the battlefield, but as a meal. Slowly, Shakran crouched, his hollow, hungry gaze locking onto the man''s. The mortal flinched, his pupils shaking, and Shakran found himself enjoying that look of despair. His voice was smooth when he finally spoke. Are you wondering why you were sent here, to my camp? The mans head bobbed in a shaky nod, his lips pressed tight as though holding back a plea. Shakran chuckled. Well, its because you are an unlucky human. His fingers tapped against his knee as he continued. You look good, perhaps even fight well by mortal standards. But you have ruffled some feathers. Someone above you doesnt like you, so they sent you to me as my dinner. The mans breathing quickened. You know, Shakran mused, when I asked for living men to feast upon each day, your lord didnt even hesitate before agreeing. He didnt flinch, not even once. Do you understand what that means? His lips curled into a smirk. He doesnt care about you. Not your life, not your service, not your loyalty. He doesnt care. He sent you here without a second thought. But me? Shakran tapped his chest. Im just a creature having his dinner. You eat goats and chickens, dont you? Its the same here. His voice softened, though his eyes glowed with hunger. The real evil is your lord. The man trembled violently now. His lips parted, barely able to form words before a desperate whisper escaped Please spare Shakran was already moving. His hand clamped around the man''s neck, his fangs sinking deep into the soft flesh. A choked whimper left the mans throat, his fingers twitching before the strength bled out of them. Shakran drank, savoring every drop of the rich, warm taste as it flowed over his tongue. The mans body convulsed once twice and then his skin grew pallid, his veins drained of every last drop. The body crumpled to the groundpale, lifeless, hollow. Shakran wiped the blood from his lips with the back of his hand, exhaling in satisfaction. That wasnt a bad meal. Footsteps echoed outside the tent. He turned his head just as one of his servants entered, dropping to one knee in practiced submission. Sarch* The novlF~ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. I greet Lord Shakran, the blood drinker intoned. Shakran studied him for a moment before leaning back, his hunger sated. What news do you bring? The servant remained on one knee, his head bowed as he spoke. As you expected, my lord, I and the others followed Arzans knights after we saw them lead a small force out a few hours after the Battle of Dorn ended. We trailed them to the three noble houses that are in support of Duke Lucian. Shakran leaned back after sitting in a chair, tapping a claw against his knee. So, what came of it? The servants voice was steady. Annihilation. Shakran raised a brow. All three noble houses lost their major forces, the servant continued. Their armies were slaughtered, and their lords taken prisoner. For the first time in a long while, genuine surprise flickered through Shakrans mind. He ran his tongue over his teeth, tasting the lingering remnants of his last meal. He studied his servants composure, searching for any sign of exaggerationbut there was none. His voice came out as a single word. How? The servant lowered his head slightly. They used tricks, my lord. It was all a trap. The noble armies expected an easy victory, believing Arzans forces too few to pose a threat. But their Knights had unique armorarmor that blinded the enemy with bursts of light, that burned with fire and crackled with lightning. He paused. When they charged, they could not be stopped. The noble forces were overwhelmed before they even had the chance to retreat. Shakran narrowed his eyes. A special enchanted armour, then. Ordinary ones won''t be able to take enchantments such as the ones you are describing without breaking down. We believe so, the servant confirmed. Not just thatwhile the noble armies were distracted, those small forces led by Knights also moved to capture their cities. Shakran exhaled slowly, watching his servant with growing interest. For the second time, he wondered if the man was bluffingbut no. The weight in his words spoke of something witnessed firsthand. Just how strong are these knights they call Enforcers? He voiced the question aloud. The servant hesitated before answering. I do not know, my lord. This battle was won through trickery and deception. But if we take the Battle of Verdis into account They are at least as strong as us. Especially if they are prepared. Shakran chuckled, his sharp nails tapping against the armrest of his seat. This is turning out to be far more interesting than I initially expected. His eyes sharpened. Keep an eye on their armor and weapons. We need to bring samples to Queen Regina. She would be pleased to see them. The servant nodded. Yes, my lord. There is one more thing. Shakran lifted a brow. Oh? Its a small matter, but we noticed something unusual. Shakrans lips curled into a smirk. And what is that? The servant met his gaze. Birds, my lord. Shakran tilted his head slightly, urging him to continue. Normally, when we fly, birds scatter away from us. They recognize a stronger creature and flee. The servants voice grew thoughtful. But during the entire watch, my lord, we saw the birds circling above the battlefield. They did not move awaynot once. Shakrans smirk widened, understanding dawning in his eyes. And you suspect Arzan is controlling them. The servant nodded. Yes, my lord. Shakran leaned forward, amusement glinting in his eyes. Druidic magic. Now that is interesting. I never thought I would see it in the hands of a human, when even the Maleficia have no knowledge of it. He exhaled, this had certainly taken a very interesting turn. We need to find the source of this power. If Arzan has access to it then we must take it from him. He leaned back, his fingers tapping once more against the wood. Deliver this information to Queen Regina. She will want to know. The servant hesitated for a moment before speaking again. So should I inform Duke Lucian about this, my lord? Shakran looked at him, then let out a slow, amused chuckle. His fangs gleamed as he grinned. No, he said smoothly. Lucian doesnt need to know anything He leaned forward slightly, his crimson eyes glinting. I initially thought this war would be an easy victory for him. But no. Hes going to lose And even if, by some miracle, he wins, itll be a pyrrhic victory at best. The servant gave a slow nod. Then what are your next orders, my lord? Shakrans smile remained, but it sharpened at the edges. Dont tell Lucian anything. He cant do anything about it at this point. With no reinforcements coming, hes done for. We will hold the end of the bargain by helping him in the battle, but not more than that. The servant bowed his head. Understood, my lord. Shakran stood from his seat, his gaze flickering toward the dead, pale corpse at his feet. What need to do, he continued, is follow Mistress Reginas orders. His voice deepened. She wants Arzans head. His fingers twitched, as if already imagining them closing around his targets throat. And I will make sure to get it. He turned his gaze back to his servant. While I battle him, your job will be to move into Veralt and find me this knowledge. The armor, the drones, and his lips curled slightly, the druidic magic. The servant gave an affirmative nod. Yes, my lord. Shakrans smirk widened in approval. Good. His gaze drifted once more to the lifeless human at his feet, and he tilted his head, amusement dancing in his blood-red eyes. Oh, Arzan he murmured. His foot nudged the corpse slightly, watching as it lay stillpale, lifeless, I wait to make you exactly that. *** In the dead of night, two figures soared through the sky, their forms blending seamlessly into the darkness. The night was their ally, cloaking them in its shadowy embrace as they glided silently toward the great river that bordered House Dorns lands. Each carried a large sack under their arm, their burden heavy, yet their flight unhindered. Below them, the land stretched vast and quiet, unaware of the destruction about to unfold. They had heard of this placethe great river that wound through much of the Sylvan Enclave, one of the largest sources of water in the region. A lifeline to the humans. What they were about to do would corrupt that lifeline, poisoning it for years to come. But to the two blood drinkers, it meant nothing. Orders had been given, and they would be carried out. The lives of humans were no more valuable to them than those of livestock. If this act would cripple Count Arzan and his forces, then it was necessary. One of them touched down on the riverbank, boots sinking slightly into the damp earth. He glanced around before nodding. I believe this spot should be good, he murmured. Lets do it and get back. Lord Shakran seems to be growing impatient, and new orders could come at any time. The other blood drinker grinned, baring fangs that gleamed in the moonlight. Yes. I for those humans in the castle to come fetch their precious water only to drink their deaths. His eyes gleamed with wicked amusement. Do you think theyll be tasty? His companion gave a slight shrug. I wouldnt know. Ive long since lost my taste for mortal blood. He paused, then smirked. Now, Mage blood thats a different story. His gaze shifted downward, watching the river rush past them, oblivious to its fate. Anyway, he said, shaking the bag loose, lets get this poison in the water and fly off. With that, they knelt. The other blood drinker nodded, adjusting his grip as they prepared to empty their sacks into the river. They moved in unison, lifting the heavy bags, ready to dump the poison into the flowing water One of them suddenly froze. The other noticed immediately, frowning. What is it? I saw something move, the first one murmured, his red eyes narrowing as he scanned the dark waters. The second scoffed. A lowly fish, no doubt. Itll meet its end the moment we dissolve this into the river. Dont let it distract you. The first hesitated for only a moment before nodding, shifting the bag again. But This time, the river trembled. A deep vibration rippled through the ground beneath them. Both blood drinkers stiffened. Their instincts sharpened, their bodies tensing as they instinctively stepped back, ready to flee if necessary. Then The water erupted. Something massive surged from beneath, sending a wave crashing over the shore. One of them cursed and instantly shot into the air, abandoning the bag entirely But before he could get far, a thick, glistening tentacle lashed out and seized his leg. A startled snarl tore from his throat as he struggled, clawing at the appendage, but the grip was like iron. His companions eyes widened in horror as he watched, and thenmore tentacles rose from the depths. His breath hitched as a monstrous form emerged from the river. An enormous creature loomed over them, its slick, chitinous skin reflecting the moonlight, its many eyes glinting with an unnatural intelligence. A kraken. Damn it! The second blood drinker snarled, hands flashing as he unleashed a flurry of crimson attacks. Blades of condensed blood, sharp as razors, sliced through the air, striking the writhing limbs and did nothing. Whatever wounds his attacks inflicted vanished in an instant. Healing almost instantly. His stomach dropped. Meanwhile, his companion was hauled violently downward. A sickening crack echoed through the night as the kraken smashed him into the riverbank, sending dirt and debris flying. Shiran! the second one shouted, lunging forward But more tentacles lashed out. Too many to count. They wrapped around his arms, legs, and torso, pulling him toward the beasts gaping maw. For the first time in centuries, a cold, primal fear slithered through him. He had become prey out of nowhere. The krakens countless eyes bore into him, unblinking. And then It fucking smiled. A slow, creeping grin that stretched wide, exposing rows upon rows of jagged fangs. The blood drinker thrashed, trying to summon more power, but the grip around him tightened And then, with horrifying ease, the krakens mouth opened, and the darkness of its throat engulfed him. The last thing he saw was his companions mangled body being lifted toward the same fate. The kraken bit down. The night was silent once more. Only the river remained, flowing undisturbed, as if nothing had happened. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 182. Prelude to the climax Even on the cusp of victory, things felt too quiet for Kai as he remained within Dorn Castle, preparing for the final battle that would mark the end of this fief war. sea??h th novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Everything was moving as he had planned in the war council. Dorn Castle had fallen with minimal casualties, and according to the reports hed received, the Enforcers had done their job well. They had hunted down the remnants of noble forces, crushing them with carefully planned tactics and the new Lightwood armorsa game-changer in battle. The Lightwoods enchantment-friendly properties had allowed him to outfit his troops with defensive and offensive enhancements, making them a formidable force capable of turning the tide of battle. What had begun as a desperate uphill battle, where he was astronomically outnumbered, had now narrowed to just Kai versus Lucians remaining forces. But that didnt mean victory would come easily. Lucian still had his own soldiers, battle-hardened mercenaries, and the support of the Archine Towers Mages and blood drinkers. If their forces clashed head-on, Kai knew that the cost would be high. This was going to be a brutal fight. Because in war, nothing was ever truly simple. From an outside perspective, it might seem as if each battle had been won decisively. But victory wasnt just about winning the fightit was about what came after. Seizing a castle, defeating armies, and capturing nobles was one thing. Dealing with the aftermath was another. There were complications. What to do with the local population? How to make them understand that his forces werent there to loot, pillage, or slaughter them? It was always a delicate situation, one that could spiral into rebellion if mismanaged. It was the last thing he wanted, especially when so many things could go wrong in the heat of a moment. At least here, in Dorn, they had the bulk of their forces. Control was easier. But in the noble territories where his Enforcers had seized power, things were far more complicated. They didnt have the numbers to maintain order, so once the nobles were captured, the only choice was to withdraw and return to Dorn Castle with the captured nobles, letting the locals deal with the governance. It wasnt a perfect solution, but in war, there were no perfect solutions. Only calculated risks. And now, with the final battle approaching, Kai knew one thing for certain. The hardest part was yet to come. In all honesty, Kai just wanted to get it over with since feeding a large army and taking care of a population that wasn''t his weren''t easy. Keeping up morale everyday was another problem. The longer this dragged on, the worse it would get. He needed to end it fast. But for some reason, everything had stalled. According to the Watchers, Lucians forces had reached Castle Cragfort, just as expected, preparing to merge with the other noble forces. By now, his brother should have received word of what had happened to them. And yetthere was no movement. It wasnt as if Lucian had been completely idle. He had already tried poisoning the nearby river. But that plan had amounted to nothing, thanks to the kraken guarding it. A druidic bond that Kai had put to good use. But aside from that? Nothing. Lucians forces were simply waiting inside the castle, refusing to venture out. Maybe he was banking on Kai attacking first, confident in his ability to defend a siege. Kai didnt want to drag this war out longer than necessary, but storming Cragfort wasnt an easy option either. By now, they would have countermeasures against his drones. If he launched an attack, the fortifications would hold long enough to make it a grueling battle. The waiting made him uneasy. Something was coming. He just didnt know what. But he knew for certain that But worrying about it wouldnt solve anything. Kai knew better than to let anxiety rule his decisions. Right now, he needed to keep his forces ready. He gave Killian orders to keep morale high, reminding the men that only one battle remained. He had Balens team of apprentice blacksmiths repairing equipment, the craftsmen building more golems, and most importantly, he waited for the Enforcers to return to Dorn Castle. Fortunately, he had capable subordinates. Everything was being handled. And that left Kai with one task of his own. That night, after yet another strategy meeting, he moved through the former Viscounts manor. Dorn Castle was larger than the one in Veralt, and now, it was fully under his control. The Viscount was locked in a cell, his family quarantined in their chambers. The halls were quiet. Kai walked up the stone staircase leading to the rooftop, passing the guards who were on duty. Once he reached the top, he felt the night wind on his face, took a deep breath, and sat down. It was time to clear his mind. He let go of all his thoughts regarding Lucian and his forces in an instant and he exhaled slowly and began to circulate mana through his body, drawing it in from the surroundings. Soon, mana flowed into him in waves. He felt the difference. Ever since he unlocked the vault in his legs, his control had grown sharperhe could sense it effortlessly now. But his focus wasnt on that. Instead, he worked on his fourth circle. After being healed, he had devoted every night to it, refining his control. He had even used materials from Sylvastra to brew potions, hastening his progress. A part of him wondered if he was rushing, if he should be more patient with his foundationbut the final battle was looming. Breaking through before then would be a advantage. His first three circles were stable, their foundations strong. But the fourth? It was trickier. He had to expand the space inside his Mana heart while constructing the circle at the same time. He had to balance both the processes so that his internal organs wouldnt get harmed by the excess mana he was drawing in to store. He exhaled, letting go of all the air in his lungs and paused three two one he inhaled deeply again. His focus sharpened, guiding his mana toward his heart, enveloping it in his power, and slowly pushing outward. The sensation was strangelike pulling an invisible rubber band, stretching it further and further. It wasnt something tangible. He couldnt see it. Couldnt touch it. Only feel it. At the core of his being, he sensed the fourth circle taking shape. The structure of it was almost complete, pressing against the expanding boundaries of his Mana heart. But it still lacked the final surge of power to solidify. Right now, it was just a half-formed ring. Kai continued. He drew more mana from the air, feeding it into his body, channeling it relentlessly into the forming circle. Suddenly, Kais eyes snapped open as a sound passed by his ears. His body moved before thought could catch upsmooth, instinctive, silent. His feet found the cold stone of the rooftop as he straightened, his breath steady despite the sudden jolt of awareness flooding his system and his eyes looked around. Only the whisper of the night breeze greeted him. The slow rustling of banners far below. And the silence in the distance that had no idea about predators who waited to attack. But he knew better. Silence never meant comfort or safety. And his instinctshe trusted them. There had been movement. Calculated. Precise. Too subtle for an accident, too measured for a mistake. Whoever was out there wanted him to hear it. Kai remained still, his heartbeat slow, his senses expanding as his mana looked around everywhere. He waited. His eyes swept the rooftop. His ears strained for the shift in the wind, the faintest of breaths, the misplaced weight of a footstep. A full minute passed. Nothing. Whoever it was had even concealed mana. His frown deepened. A quiet exhale left his lips. "Reveal yourself." Silence. Thena ripple. Not of sound, but of something else. A presence. A weight pressed against his senses, creeping into the air like mist, thick and cloying. The very shadows twisted, writhing like something alive, something breathing. Thenit took shape. A figure stepped forward from the darkness, emerging as if the night itself had birthed him. Tall. Incredibly tall. Lean, yet the way he movedthe sheer, predatory grace of itspoke of something inhuman. His body, though lightly dressed, carried the promise of unrestrained power. A simple black vest clung to his form, tailored like a nobles, yet without the pretension of armor. And then, there were the fangs. Gleaming. Sharp. Made for tearing and sucking blood out of whatever that passed it. His eyesslitted, crimsondid not just look at Kai. They smiled. Kais expression remained unreadable, but his mind sharpened, turning like a well-oiled machine. And not just any. This one was not hiding his presence. Kai felt itthe sheer weight of his aura, thick as a thunderstorm waiting to break. It pushed against him, not with brute force, but with an oppressive certainty. A presence that had no doubt of its own superiority. A Lord. One of the highest-ranked in the blood drinker hierarchy. Kai had read of them. Few lived to speak of meeting one. The blood drinker studied him with unhurried amusement, as if indulging a lesser being. Then, at last, he spokehis voice a smooth drawl, rich with something dangerous. Its nice to meet you, Arzan Kellius. He took a step forward. The way he moved was wrong. Too fluid, too silent. Like his feet had never needed the ground to walk. His head tilted, just slightly. Let me introduce myself. He gave off a predators smile, fangs glinting under the moonlight. "I am Shakran. RankLord among the mighty blood drinkers. And Im here to take your life. Kai didnt react at first. Then, he smiled. So Lucian sent you to kill me, he said. I suppose he isnt confident in defeating my forces after all. Shakran chuckled, shaking his head. No. Your brother has no command over me. Kais eyes narrowed slightly. Its someone else who wants you dead. Kai immediately pieced it together. His voice was certain as he said the name. Regina. Shakrans grin widened. Right answer. He studied Kai, eyes gleaming with amusement. So, youre already aware of Mistress Regina and the legions she commands. Kai let out a short scoff. Mistress? His tone was mocking. Never thought a blood drinker would swear fealty to a human. Especially when you lot consider us beneath you. Shakran laughed maniacally out loud. "You humans are so blind! His voice dripped with haughtiness. His eyes looked down on Kai as if he was just another prey. But Kai didnt falter, he maintained his eye contact with the blood drinker. "So pitifully tied to your fleeting existence. Mistress Regina is nothing like your kind. She transcends your feeble mortality, guided by the same faith that I serve. She swears by it, and so do I! And soon, the world will bow to the fate that awaits it." Kai didnt react to the speech. He let the words wash over him, a meaningless tide of devotion and zealotry. It wasnt the first time hed heard self-righteous declarations from fanatics, and it wouldnt be the last. Instead, his fingers twitched subtly inside his robe pocket, weaving an unseen spell. A thread of mana pulsed at his fingertips, thin as a whisper, as he shaped it into a message spell. The magic flickered away, silent and swift, vanishing into the air to find its recipient. Kai exhaled slowly, his gaze remaining locked onto Shakran. If the blood drinker was here, then Lucians forces were already mobilizing. They couldnt afford to be caught off guard. Yet, for all his caution, a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he tilted his head slightly. "Id love to hear more about Regina from you," Kai said, unbothered. "But I have a feeling you didnt come all this way just to lecture me on your mistresss grand ideals. No" He narrowed his eyes. "Youre here to kill me. To drain me dry." Shakran chuckled. "Ah, you understand so quickly." He spread his arms, a mockery of hospitality. "Youre strong for a human, Ill grant you that. But against superior strength like mine? Youll be a corpse before you even realize it." The air thickened suddenly. A low hum resonated from the blood drinkers body, and the shadows beneath him trembled. Dark crimson droplets lifted into the air around him, swirling and twisting unnaturally, forming jagged edges and wickedly sharp points. The liquid molded itself into weaponsblades, spears, tendrils of slicing deathall hovering in anticipation, waiting for his command. At the same time, mana surged around Kai, responding to his will. He didnt need theatrics to show his power. The air crackled, the temperature around him shifting ever so slightly. His body remained still, but his presence grew heavier, a storm coiling beneath the surface. His heartbeat slowed, his breathing steady. Finally. The battle he had been waiting for was about to begin. *** The drumming of hooves echoed through the valley, a relentless rhythm that matched the hammering in Lucians chest. His breath came slow but his fingers clenched tighter around the reins. His black warhorse, sensing the tension in its rider, snorted and tossed its head, but Lucian barely noticed. The march to Dorn Castle had been swift. He had forced it soif he gave his soldiers too much time to think, to wonder, they might see the same cracks in their fate that he did. His gaze swept over the ranks. Rows upon rows of men moved in unison, their armor catching the dim light of the moon, their banners fluttering in the breeze. From a distance, it was an impressive sighta tide of steel and blood, rolling toward war. But Lucian knew better. He could see the tension in their shoulders, the stiffness in their strides. Soldiers who should have marched with confidence instead gripped their weapons a little too tightly. Their silence was suffocating. No songs, no idle chatterjust the relentless clank of armor, the rustle of worn banners, the uneasy shifting of warhorses. They were thinking about it too. The reports had come in like knives to his pride. The noble forces under himannihilated. Not scattered, not defeatedwiped out. The blood drinkers had spoken of Arzans Knights like monsters, claiming no formation, no battle-hardened troops could hold against them. It had been absurd. Impossible. And yet, it had happened. Just like the kraken. His jaw tightened at the thought. His poison plan should have worked. It should have crippled the enemy''s supply lines, left them starving, desperate, easy prey. But then, from the depths of the very river he meant to poison, the kraken had risen. Not only it had gotten the blood drinkers he had sent, even the ordinary men he had sent after that were devoured with only one of them surviving to tell the tale of what had happened. It was as if the gods themselves were laughing at him. Lucian sucked in a slow breath, exhaling through his nose. There had been no strategy against it, no counter. He had lost soldiers, resources, and time. He had sent for reinforcementsMages from Archine Tower, noble battalions from outside the Sylvan Enclavebut they were still too far. Time was something he didnt have. His gaze flickered toward the distant stone walls of Dorn Castle, now rising into view over the horizon. He could not stall any longer. His army would not last. Rations were running low. Morale was thinner than parchment. Arzan could attack at any moment. Lucian pressed his lips into a thin line. He had gambled. Shakran had proposed a cleaner endtake Arzans head himself and then Arzans forces would fall on its own. Lucian hadnt trusted it. Things always went wrong, and if they dowhat would happen? Shakran and his kind were beasts, not men. Creatures of hunger and darkness that followed their own whims. The blood drinkers did not fight for loyalty, or honor, or even wealth. They fought for the thrill of the hunt, for the taste of war and blood. But he needed them. He had agreed, even as unease slithered through his gut. Now, as Dorn Castle stood before him, the weight of his choice settled on his shoulders. The old fortress loomed, its walls jagged and unyielding, banners snapping against the wind. The moonlight bathed the stone in a silver hue, but Lucian felt no warmth from it. His horse slowed, and his army followed suit. He turned his head slightly, his gaze settling on Garrik. The old Knight sat straight in the saddle. A deep scar carved down his left cheek. Near his jaw, the burned skin twisted, giving his already fearsome face an even harsher edge. The first time most men saw him, they flinched. Garrik did not fear battle. That was why Lucian had kept him close. This is the end, Garrik. The old Knight did not hesitate. Dont worry, my lord. His voice was rough, firmthe voice of a man who had seen battlefields drenched in blood and still stood. The victory will be ours soon. Lucian turned to him fully now, his eyes cold, sharp. I hope your words are correct. His gaze swept over the soldiers behind him. Because you and the troops can either die in battle he let the words settle, his grip tightening on the reins, or die by my hands if we lose. Even the wind seemed to still at those words. Garrik met his gaze. Then, after a beat, he gave a single nod. Lucian exhaled, turning back to the castle. The siege would begin soon. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 183. War speech Killians pulse pounded in his ears. He felt his heartbeat thrumming against his ribs like war drums as he froze. Had he imagined it? Because the sooner the voice came, the sooner it went. Butit couldnt be an imagination. The voice had been clear, almost as if Lord Arzan was right next to him. He exhaled loudly, his fingers curling into a fist. No time to hesitate. Especially not when intruders managed to move past their tight formation. The warning of incoming enemies made him turn on his heel, his boots grinding against the stone overseeing an inspection. The men around himsoldiers stationed at their postsglanced at him with confusion as he stood still, caught in his own thoughts for that brief, dangerous second. Knight Killian? Killian snapped his gaze to the man, his jaw tight. Get the troops ready. Now. I want every single soldier on the walls. Protect the mana cannons. Position the golems accordingly. We are going to see the end of the fief war tonight. His voice didnt betray the urgency he felt. The knowledge of the incoming enemies brought a chill to his spine, but spiked his adrenaline almost instantly. But regardless of his immediate command, a beat of silence followed. Not what he envisioned; the men exchanged uneasy glances. An older man from the line walked forward. What do you mean, Knight Killian? Killians eyebrows knitted together. I meant exactly what I said! he looked between confused soldiers. Lord Arzan just informed meLucians army is moving. The Watchers should return with confirmation any moment now. We prepare now, or we die unprepared. The man stiffened, the weight of Killians words sinking in. Killian pressed on. Send word to every Enforcer still within the city. Have them reinforce the eastern wall. Ill be heading to the castle. Lord Arzan is probably fighting a blood drinker on the rooftop. For the first time, true understanding flickered in their eyes. The front line soldier who asked the question nodded stiffly, turned, and ran, barking orders as he went. Killian didnt wait to see the men fall into motionhe trusted them to do their duty. Instead, he moved. Fast. Taking long strides, he sprinted down the battlements and into the city streets, towards the castle. Every soldier he passed received the same commandspread the news, prepare the defense. The enemies are incoming! The words started spreading almost instantly. But before he could move closer, his ears rang. The world shook. The ground beneath him trembled violently as an explosion ripped through the air. The sky flashed red. Killian skidded to a halt, his breath catching as his head snapped toward the castle. He saw a large chunk of the grand structure collapse inward, flames licking the edges of it as smoke curled into the night sky. His stomach dropped. The streets around him erupted into panic. People screamed, running in every direction. The guards, trained but startled, clutched their weapons tighter. Killian barely registered them. His gaze was locked onto the two figuresone monstrous and one familiar silhouettesflying through the smoke. They were clashing in midair. His fingers twitched at his side, instinctively wishing he could leap into the fray. The sight that was in front of them made him stop dead in his tracks. Whips of wind curled around Lord Arzans legs, keeping him in the air. And it was quite the difference from his opponent. The damned monster was cloaked in a river of writhing crimson. He could smell the blood and iron from yards away. The creature was lashing out at Lord Arzan, sending waves of blood slicing through the sky in bladed crescents, but Lord Arzan dodged every time. The attacks missed him by a hairs breadth. Killians jaw tightened. He had fought monsters, had cut down men twice his size, but thisthis was something else. Every exchange between the two combatants sent shockwaves rippling outwards. The impact shook the very foundation of the city. Then, for a brief moment, Lord Arzans gaze flickered toward him before he veered left. Killian understood immediately. The Count was leading the battle away from the heart of the city, minimizing casualtiestrusting Killian to do his part. He turned on his heel, sprinting back toward the walls. If Lord Arzan was handling the blood drinker, that meant Killian had a different battlefield to manage. The citys defenses, the soldiers, the Enforcersthey needed to be ready. By the time he reached the fortifications, the troops were already in position. Lines of armored men stood at the ready, gripping their weapons with white-knuckled hands. The mana cannons were being wheeled into place, their arcane cores pulsing with restrained power. Enforcers stood among them, their presence a steadying force. At the center of it all was Gareth, his sharp gaze scanning the battlefield. The moment he spotted Killian, he strode forward. Knight Killian! Duke Lucians army is here! Killian exhaled sharply. So it begins. The blood drinkers seem to have learned of the druidic bonds, Gareth continued. Theyve been hunting them downit slowed our intelligence gathering. But we finally confirmed their movements. Theyre advancing. How many? Three thousand with the mercenaries involved. We dont have exact numbers on the blood drinkers, but at least two to three dozen of them. They wont be easy opponents. He looked over the men, some gripping their weapons too tightly, and others standing straight with their shoulders squared despite the fear curling at the edges of their expressions. They were outnumbered, and their enemy wasnt just human. Neither are we. He met Gareths eyes. We need to prove that we arent easy opponents either. Gareth gave a firm nod, and Killian turned, his eyes sweeping toward the horizon as if willing the army to reveal itself. The wind howled against the stone, carrying the distant sound of marching boots. A moment passed before Gareth spoke again. Knight Killian I saw Lord Arzan fighting something. Will he be okay? Killian hesitated, but only for a breath. Yes, he will be. He didnt need to say morebut he did. Lord Arzan is the strongest of us all, Killian said. Hell take down that foul creature for sure. His statement reached the ears of the remaining Enforcers; the ones who hadnt gone to capture castles, and were ordered to stay back with Lord Arzan. The Enforcers around him visibly steadied, their grips tightening not out of fear but resolve. Lord Arzan wasnt just their leaderhe was their hope. Then A shout came from the watchtower. I see movement! Every head snapped toward the horizon. Dust rose in thick, curling waves, swallowing the sky in a murky haze. And through itan army marched. Killians eyes locked onto the front lines, and his stomach twisted. Duke Lucian rode at the head, his armor glinting beneath the dying light. There were no blood drinkers in sight, but Killian wasnt naive. They were there. Watching. Waiting. One command, and theyd come rushing like trained hounds. He inhaled deeply, pressing the weight of his responsibility down into his core. He had done this before. Stood before an army knowing that by dawn, some of these menhis menwould not be standing beside him. The reality of war was cruel. He knew that. And he couldnt linger and wallow in regret or the deaths he knew would happen. Because, he knew one thing, that tonight, it was his battlefield. Killian tightened his grip on his sword. The leather of the hilt pressed against his palm, grounding him. His responsibility in this battle was greater, but he didnt let it bow his back. He would lead from the front. Lord Arzan was locked in his own battle above, fighting a monster that should not exist, leaving the battlefield below in Killians hands. And that meant one thinghe could not afford hesitation. A hundred eyes were on him. He hadnt noticed at first, too caught up in his own thoughts, but now he felt it. The expectation. The silent demand for his words. The men needed direction. They needed belief. So he stepped forward, raising his sword high. And he gave them both. Everyone! The battle we have waited for is here. His voice rang out, steady, unyielding. This fief war wasnt started by us, but todaywe end it. And we end it in blood. A roar erupted from the ranks, boots shifting, weapons raised. Killian let the fire spread before continuing, his voice cutting through the night. We dont face common men alone! We stand against Mages, against monstersagainst the blood drinkers, creatures of blood and death. A murmur rippled through them, the weight of those words settling in. Fear clawed at the edges of their resolve. He couldnt allow that. But! Killians voice was a blade, slicing through doubt. Lord Arzan has armed us with weapons that can strike them down! He has given us armor that will not yield, forces that make us more than men! He turned, meeting the gaze of his soldiers, each one waiting for his final command. Today, we prove that his faith in us is not misplaced. Are you ready? Ready to tear through their lines, to fight for Veralt and Verdis? For your homes? For your families? For your kids who are waiting behind? Are you reading to fight for glory?! The walls shook with their roar. Sear?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Killian felt the fire burning inside him, feeding on their energy. He turned back toward the horizon, toward the army surging forward in a storm of steel and dust. His jaw clenched. His grip tightened. *** Kai soared through the night sky, wind swirling around his legs as he dodged another crimson blade. The sheer force of the attack sliced through the air where he had been a moment before, leaving behind a faint trace of blood-red mist. This fight was different. Since his reincarnation, he had fought his fair share of battles, but none had come close to this. It reminded him of his first life, back when he had battled fiends every week, when every fight had been a dance with death. Back then, he was a Magus, a true force of destruction. Now, he was merely a peak Third Circle Mage. And for the first time since his return, he wasnt sure if that would be enough. Shakran was fast. His control over blood was like an extension of his body, sending out blade after blade in a relentless barrage. Kais [Wind shield] flickered to life, blocking the attacks before they could reach him. In return, he trailed his fingers through the air, conjuring flames that shot toward the blood drinker like falling stars. Shakran sneered. His monstrous face twisted as if mocking the attempt. With a flick of his wrist, a crimson wall rose to meet the fire, dissolving it before it could reach him. And then he retaliated. The sky became their battlefield as they ascended, each one twisting through the air, searching for an opening. Kai''s spells clashed against waves of blood, neither gaining the upper hand. Then, Shakran chuckled, his voice carrying through the night. "I thought you were an honorable man," he taunted, launching another barrage of blood spikes. "Why do you run?" Kai twisted his body, dodging each strike with precision. His expression remained cold as he shot back, Shut up. And then he breathed in. The air around him shimmered with heat. Mana surged through his veins, igniting his core. With a sharp exhale, a roaring inferno burst from his handa [Dragons Breath], pure and searing. The flames chased Shakran, winding through the air like a serpent seeking prey. The blood drinker darted away, weaving through the night in a desperate attempt to outrun the fire. At the last second, he conjured a knight of blood to shield himself, the figure stepping forward to meet the flames. But Kai wasnt finished. Even as the dragons breath dissipated, embers remained. They hung in the air for a brief moment before raining down like a fiery storm. Shakran hissed. He recoiled as the flames licked his flesh, the stench of burning blood filling the air. "Youll pay for that," he snarled, his crimson eyes flashing with rage. Kai ignored him. His gaze was already locked onto the wounds forming on Shakrans body. They were healing. Slowly, but too fast for his liking. A Lords regeneration. He clenched his fists. That was going to be a problem. He exhaled sharply. He couldn''t delay this any longer. His fingers twitched as mana surged through his body, weaving together two spell structures. Fire and ice. Two Third Circle spells at once. It was already pushing his limits, but with the wind spell still active around his legs, this was triple casting. The sheer strain sent needles of pain through his mind, his control faltering for a fraction of a second Shakran noticed. "As if Id let you throw more spells at me!" he snarled, surging forward. A massive axe formed in his grip, its blade dark with condensed blood magic. He swung with brutal force, aiming to cleave through Kai before he could complete his spell. The latter reacted instantly. With a final push, he released his ice spell. A thick mist exploded outward, frost creeping through the air as the temperature plummeted. Shakrans charge slowed as ice began to crawl up his limbs, his movement sluggish But he didn''t stop. With a guttural growl, Shakran forced himself forward, breaking through the freezing mist and swinging the axe down. Pain erupted as the blade bit into Kais shoulder. The force of the impact sent him hurtling toward the ground, blood splattering in the air as he struggled to keep himself upright. The world spun. Gritting his teeth, Kai forced his mana into his wind spell, stabilizing himself in midair. The moment his body steadied, he unleashed his second spell, [Astrum Phoenix]. A roaring fire erupted from his outstretched palma phoenix of pure flames, its wings spread wide as it dove toward Shakran. The blood drinker scowled, his frozen hand barely moving as ice crawled up his arm. His axe shattered into crimson shards, dissipating. But before the phoenix could consume him, he snarled and formed another blade of blood, hacking through the fire construct. It didnt work. The moment his attack connected, the phoenix split into two. Two flaming beasts now surged toward him, their hungry flames flickering in the night. Shakrans eyes widened. "What kind of spell?!" Before he could finish, the phoenixes slammed into him. A scream tore from his throat as he raised his hands, summoning a swirling river of blood around himself. The liquid surged upward, swallowing the fire, suffocating the burning creatures in its depths. Kai didnt waste the moment. Panting, he pulled a potion from his belt, tossing it back in one swift motion. The pain dulled, his wound slowly beginning to mend. His gaze snapped back to Shakran. The blood drinker had managed to douse the flames, his form barely visible through the dissipating mist. His expression was dark, his breathing heavier than before. But he was still standing. Kai barely had time to breathe before a furious scream tore through the air. Shakran launched himself forward, his body a crimson blur as he closed the distance. Kai didnt hesitatehis hand shot into his coat, fingers wrapping around a glass vial. He flung the explosive potion, its contents igniting midair. The resulting blast expanded in a rush of heat and smoke, engulfing Shakran in its fiery embrace. For a brief moment, Kai felt a flicker of relief. Then Shakran vanished. Kais eyes widened. A sudden, bone-chilling sensation crawled up his spine. He whirled around, instincts screaming, just in time to see a crimson sword slicing toward his throat. An ice shield materialized between them at the last second. The blood blade bit into the frozen wall, cracking its surface, but the defense held. Shakrans lips curled into a smirk. And thenhe disappeared again. Kai hovered midair, heart hammering in his chest. His mind raced. The sensation was too familiarlike the battle with the necromancer in Vasper Forest, when he had to fight through the thick fog, unable to see his enemy. But Shakran was no weak necromancer. He was stronger. Faster. More terrifying. And definitely, had the brains to kill him right then and there. Kai clenched his jaw, keeping his ice shield up, anticipating the next strike. It came instantly. A sudden impactharder than beforeshattered another layer of the shield. Then another. And another. The incoming strike was more ferocious, more forceful than the previous one, breaking through his defenses piece by piece. He was losing ground. Kai braced himself as the next blow struck, and this time, Shakran didnt stop. The blood blade dissolved mid-strike. A fist slammed through the ice, shattering it completely, and crashed into Kais chest. He barely had time to react before the force sent him hurtling toward the ground. His wind magic flared instinctively, slowing his descentbut not enough. Through the rushing wind, his gaze locked onto a figure waiting below. A blood knight. The armored figure raised its sword, perfectly positioned to cut him in half on impact. With a sharp twist, Kai yanked another explosive potion from his belt and hurled it downward. The explosion sent him careening off-course, blasting him back toward the ground. The impact rattled his bones, pain lancing through his body. He coughed, blood staining his lips, but forced himself upright. The wind had softened the fallbut he wasnt unharmed. Standing now in the open grasslands, exposed beneath the night sky, he looked around. Nothing. No movement. No sign of Shakran. Only the eerie silence and the voices that came from far, far away. Where would he strike from next? The uncertainty gnawed at him. The next hit could be fatal. his thoughts came to an end when a manic laughter came. "You are dead, an annoying voice followed as another attack came towards him. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 184. Vs Shakran Kais spell repertoire was vast. Fire and windhis primary elementswere his domain, and he had mastered most spells up to the fifth circle, with knowledge that stretched even beyond that. He prided himself on being an all-around Mage, capable of adapting to any situation. But raw power wasnt everything. Most spells at his level required a certain level of precision. They demanded either direct contact or careful aim, both of which were nearly impossible against an opponent like Shakran. The blood drinker flickered in and out of existence, vanishing mid-motion and reappearing from unpredictable angles. It wasnt as if Kai lacked counters, but the ones he had were costly. Spells layered with countermeasures drained mana at an alarming rate, and he couldnt afford to waste resources on something that might not work. Not that he had time to consider his options. A whisper of displaced air. A shift in the ambient mana. Kai turnedtoo late. Shakran materialized inches from him, his crimson-stained blade arcing toward Kais throat, aiming for a decisive end. But this time, he was ready. The moment Shakran reappeared, the spell structure that he already made, flared to life. A swirling maelstrom of fire erupted all around him, roaring into existence with a force that warped the air. Not just a simple flame spellthis was fire given form, an inferno crafted into a storm, equal parts shield and weapon. Shakrans blade never met flesh. Instead, his robes caught fire instantly, blackened and curling from the heat. He let out a sharp, unearthly scream as the flames devoured fabric and flesh alike. But in that same instant, Kai saw it. Blood, moving like a living thing, slithered from Shakrans body, stretching out to shield him. A defensive instinct, not unlike Kais own countermeasure, but darker, almost parasitic in nature. It was disgusting to say the least. The blood pulsed unnaturally, forming a protective shell that smothered the flames before they could do more damage. Even so, Kai didnt escape unscathed. Pain lanced through his shoulder as Shakrans blade, undeterred, slashed into him before the blood drinker vanished again. Kai gritted his teeth, glancing down at the wound. A deep gash, but not enough to cripple him. He looked up, his gaze locking onto his opponent as Shakran reappeared several paces away. The blood drinkers cloak was in tatters, burned down to rags. Angry, blistered burns marred his arm and torso, the raw flesh beneath glistening in the firelight. But the bastard was still smiling. Hovering over his twin blood-forged blades, he chuckled under his breath. Next time, he murmured, voice like a promise, itll be your neck. Then he moved. The floating droplets of blood around him trembled before twisting into a new shape. The crimson liquid elongated, shifting with unnatural grace until it took the form of a massive, jagged-mouthed beasta shark, its eyes glowing with hunger. With a silent command, Shakran sent the creature surging forward, its maw opening wide to devour Kai whole. Kai reacted instantly, ice coiling around his fingers as he launched a barrage of frost-laced spears. They struck at his aim, freezing sections of the blood construct mid-motion, but the shark wasnt like Shakrans previous attacks. It resisted, its form shifting and reforming almost instantly. This wasnt a mere distraction. This was a true third-circle spell, bordering on the fourth. And it wasnt just an attackit was a hunt. He braced himself, knowing that while he battled the shark, Shakran would be lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Still, he couldnt give up. He moved slowly, channeling a surge of mana into an ice barrier that rapidly encased the shark. The cold, crystalline wall shimmered into existence, a temporary prison meant to slow his foe. Before the barrier could fully form, Kai unleashed a gust of wind, aiming to shatter the construct and scatter the fragments of blood that clung to Shakrans essence. But then, a subtle movementlike a hush in the windalerted him. Spinning around, Kai barely intercepted an attack aimed at his back. He sidestepped, the near miss sending sparks of adrenaline through him, and retaliated with a blazing fire spell. The searing magic struck Shakran squarely in the face, igniting his features. A shriek erupted from him as he staggered backward, his eyes wide with a mix of fury and disbelief. In that moment of vulnerability, his form wavered and then dissolved into thin air. Kais instincts told him that the next assault would come with even greater ferocity. He paused only for a heartbeat to gather his strength, casting spells in both hands as he stood poised. Suddenly, a ripple of movement below him signaled Shakrans return. Before Kai could fully react, Shakran materialized mere inches away, his blade aimed at Kais exposed stomach. Reacting on instinct, Kai unleashed a massive circle of fire, Astrum Langotra!. The cascade of fire engulfed Shakran like a warm hugmaybe a little too warm. The heat seared through flesh and blood, forcing him to recoil as the inferno consumed his very essence. Seizing the moment, Kai darted backward, putting enough distance between them. Yet the battle was far from over. These burnt, sizzling pain meant nothing. He knew his opponent would just recover with time. With a swift motion, Kai modified the spell structure in his left hand, expanding its reach before unleashing it. A freezing beam of light burst forth, striking Shakrans chest right on the left side. The impact was immediateShakrans form stiffened as layers of ice coalesced around him. Locked in a frigid prison from neck to legs, he struggled futilely, his movements growing ever more labored as the ice held him captive. Aware that such a hold could not last indefinitely, Kai began to cast another spella risky fourth-circle incantation that would leave him just enough mana to retreat if the gambit faltered. As the threads of mana wove into an intricate pattern around his outstretched hand, Shakrans voice cut through the tense air. How do you know where I was going to attack from? You didnt know it before, Shakran taunted, his voice filled with incredulity even as he strained against his icy bonds. Sear?h the N??eFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kais lips curled into a wry smile as he replied coolly, I dont have to tell you. With that, he murmured the incantation. Infernal Astrum Veins Pyros! In the split second that followed, Shakran shattered free of the ice constructonly to be met by Kais next assault. From the palm of his other hand, a single orb of flame materialized. It pulsed with an inner fire as it hurtled toward Shakran, a burning promise of retribution aimed to end the blood drinkers relentless, annoying onslaught. Shakran twisted mid-air, trying to retreat, but the orb of flame grazed his arm. The fire clung to him, licking up his sleeve and charring his skin. He gritted his teeth, then exhaled sharply, shaking his head. That was your ultimate spell? His voice carried the slightest hint of disappointment, a smirk tugging at his burnt lips. I didnt even feel anything by this point. Especially with such a weak attack. Kai smiled. A slow, knowing grin. Youre an idiot. The moment the words left his mouth, Shakrans expression flickered. A shift, almost imperceptible at first, like a disturbance in still water. Then He inhaled sharply, his body stiffening. His hands twitched. His breathing turned ragged. And then, in front of Kais eyes, the impossible happened. His blood began to boil. Not metaphorically. Not in rage or exertion. Physically. Steam curled from his skin. His veins pulsed and bulged unnaturally as if something inside him fought to escape. His eyes, wide with realization, filled with red. Not just bloodshotbut literally bleeding. Crimson streaks leaked from the corners, rolling down his cheeks like molten tears. He staggered. What did you do? His voice was hoarse, raw with something more than paindread. Kai looked at him emotionlessly. Its a banned spell. A taboo in the fire spell directory. Just because of how gruesomely it kills. He exhaled, watching. Its called [Infernal Veins] Shakrans body convulsed. His hands trembled as he tried to grip somethinganythingbut his fingers no longer obeyed him. His arms ignited from the inside out, burning like paper catching fire at the edges. His flesh darkened and cracked, glowing ember-red beneath the surface. Your blood will burn from within, Kai continued, looking at him carefully. Breaking you down. Until theres nothing left but a puddle of molten blood. Shakran screamed. It wasnt the sound of a warrior in pain. It wasnt the cry of someone resisting death. A horrifying sound to ears. His body twisted in agony as the spell took full effect. His legs buckled, the flesh melting and sloughing off his bones. Blood dripped in thick, bubbling globs, eating away at what remained of him. Kai stood still, watching. He had seen death in many forms, but this this was something different. Even for him. Then A jolt ran through him. A warning bellno, an entire chorus of themscreamed in his mind. His instincts, honed through countless battles, flared to life, screaming at him. Something was wrong. This should have been over. He should have won. But he hadnt. His eyes narrowed as he focused on the remnants of Shakrans disintegrating form. And thenhe saw it. In the mess of melted flesh and searing blood, something moved. A squirming, writhing mass. It pulsed, nestled where Shakrans heart should have been, covered by layers of half-melted tissue. Recognition struck Kai like a bolt of ice. A parasite. Just like the one that had turned Vermorga. His stomach turned. Was it the same one? Or another? He didnt know. He didnt care. Because the battle wasnt over. The parasite twitched, then sprang to life, latching onto the melting remnants of Shakrans body. And in that instant, Kai understood. This wasnt just a man he had been fighting. It was something far, far worse. And it was still alive. Kai gasped as he propelled himself through the air, the wind whipping against his face. Below him, Shakrans form had completely transformed. Patches of dead mana spread across his body like a creeping disease, turning his skin a sickly, charred black. Even the blood that had coated him shiftedmorphing into something darker, something unnatural. If Shakran had been terrifying before, now he looked like something pulled from a nightmarish legend. A beast spoken once and never again just because how terrifying it looked, the kind that children were warned aboutbut no one truly believed existed. Then A gust of unnatural wind erupted from his back. I WILL KILL YOU! Shakran yelled, his voice guttural and inhuman. His maw twisted into a grotesque sneer, fangs bared. I WILL EAT EVERY SINGLE BIT OF YOUR FLESH! Kai had no time to react. The blood drinker charged, his movements blurring into a streak of black and crimson. Kai forced his body to move, barely escaping Shakrans grasp. A clawed hand grazed his side, close enough that he felt the unnatural chill of dead mana seeping from his opponents skin. He gritted his teeth, twisting mid-air. A burst of wind magic surged around his legs, propelling him skyward just in time. The momentum sent him soaring, his body cutting through the night air like an arrow. His Mana heart throbbed painfully. He had barely enough mana left to keep flying for a few minutes, and that was if he didnt waste any more on attacks. A bone-chilling screech shattered the air. Kai glanced down. Shakran stood below, his monstrous form quivering with raw, unstable energy. The parasite had latched onto him completely now, pumping so much dead mana into him that it was a miracle his body hadnt already collapsed under the strain. But unlike Actra, who had lost himself to corruption, Shakran was different. His body could handle it. Which meant Kai couldnt wait for him to rot from the inside out. Shakran moved. Blood erupted from his fingertips, turning into jagged tendrils that shot toward Kai like a volley of lances. Kai dodged, twisting in the air, his mana straining to keep him aloft. The crimson spikes barely missed him, but as they struck the ground below, explosions rocked the battlefield. Craters formed on impact. Kais heart pounded. Gritting his teeth, he forced more mana into his wind spells, squeezing every last drop from his Mana heart. His speed increasedjust barelybut it still wasnt enough. No matter how fast he moved, Shakran kept up. Kai knew something had changed. Shakrans movements felt sharper now, the parasitewhatever it was, had enhanced his instincts along with his strength. Kai swore under his breath. He was running out of options. He looked around. A gorge loomed ahead, a yawning maw carved into the mountainside. Kai surged forward, his breath ragged, mana flickering weakly in his core. Behind him, Shakran''s voice echoed like a curse on the wind. "You wont escape! Ill tear this place apart!" A crimson arrow shrieked past Kais ear, embedding itself into the rock face with an explosive burst. Stone splintered, debris raining down as the gorge trembled from the impact. He twisted midair, dodging another projectile, the scent of corrupted mana thick in his lungs. The narrow canyon walls shielded him, giving him cover as he weaved through the tight space. But Shakran followed. More arrows streaked toward him. Kai gritted his teeth, body sluggish, every wingbeat of wind magic costing him more than he could afford. Then, pain erupted as one of the arrows grazed him by. The sharp, searing burn of flesh filled him. A sickening crunch. His body lurched mid-flight, his left shoulder jerking back as something tore through it. Blood spattered against the rock. His control wavered. Fuck!! He barely caught himself, and forced his body forward, deeper into a cave in the gorge. As soon as his feet hit the floor, his breath came shallow, barely making it out of his lungs. His body screamed in protest as he pressed his back against the cool stone wall of the cave. His shoulder throbbed where the blood arrow had struck him, dark mana seeping into his wound like poison. With shaky fingers, he fumbled for a potion, biting back a wince as he forced the bitter liquid down his throat. Soon, he felt the pain dull, but only slightly. He knew that his body was still on the verge of collapse. And then A suffocating wave of power crashed against his senses, making the very air in the cave feel heavy. Shakran landed at the entrance, his monstrous form fully lit up by the moonlight filtering in from outside. Up close, he looked even worsehis flesh was peeling away in places, revealing something grotesque underneath. His veins pulsed with an eerie, dark glow, patches of dead mana crawling across his skin like a living infection. But what caught Kais attention the most was the thing embedded in his chestthe pulsating mass of writhing tendrils, thick with pitch-black ichor. The parasite. Shakrans lips twisted into a bloodthirsty grin as he took slow steps toward Kai. He darted his tongue out in amusement. You were a hard prey to catch. Ill give you that. His eyes gleamed with something wicked. You even managed to destroy my body. If not for a precious gift I hid in my heart, you would have won. Kais jaw clenched, fingers twitching as he considered his next move. Shakran chuckled darkly. Fortunately, Mistress Regina made sure I always have ways to come back from death. Kai scoffed, a smirk tugging at his lips. Gifts from people like Regina don''t come without burden. You are just a servant of Maleficia. His voice dripped with mockery. Shakrans eyes flickered with somethingsurprise, then amusement. He inclined his head. Im impressed. You know the name. He took a slow step forward, his presence pressing like a stormfront. Then you should understand the honor of dying by the hands of a follower of the great Malefic. Perhaps in your next life, you will serve him as well. His grin widened, revealing the dripping blood. Consider yourself lucky. I wont make this painful. I have no time to wasteI must return to Mistress Regina. Kai let out a breathy chuckle. I dont think youll be doing that. Shakran stilled. His gaze narrowed, scanning Kais exhausted frame. Bold words. And who exactly is going to stop me? You? He tilted his head, mockery lacing his tone. You can barely stand. Your mana is gone. You Kais smile didnt waver. I know. His fingers curled at his side, hidden in the dim light. Thats why I made preparations. Shakrans smirk faltered, just for a moment. His eyes flicked to Kais handstoo late. With a sharp flick, Kai swung his arm forward, sending a spray of his own blood splattering against the ground between them. A golden flare erupted beneath Shakrans feet. the blood-soaked earth igniting in a burst of golden light. Arcane symbols spiralled outward, carving themselves into the stone with an eerie hum. The ritual circle snapped to life, its glow searing against the darkness. Kai soon started chanting the incantation for the ritual to activate. Shakran lunged back, instincts flaringtoo late. From the burning sigils, golden ropes shot upward like striking vipers. They coiled around his legs, his arms, his torso, yanking him down with a force that cracked the stone beneath him. He snarled, struggling, but the bindings only tightened, shimmering with divine energy. A low chuckle echoed through the cave. You thought well, kid. Shakrans head snapped to the side just as a figure stepped from the shadowsa squat, broad-shouldered dwarf with his arms crossed, a glint of amusement in his eyes. Tharnok. Then another voice, this one a tone deeper came out as a minotaur revealed himself, Balen. Lord Arzan always has his plans. Shakrans eyes widened, but not at them. His gaze locked onto what they heldmassive, gleaming contraptions humming with raw power. Mana cannons. Two of them. Kai exhaled weakly. Fire. The world exploded into white. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 185. Kiliian’s command Kai knew his odds in a direct fight were abysmal. Shakran used blood like a second skin, twisting it into tricks that could cripple even seasoned Enforcers. A straight duel would be suicide. He had considered optionscoordinating an assault with his Enforcers, manipulating the terrainbut none were foolproof. Shakran could fly, and that alone tilted the battlefield in his favor. And he needed his Enforcers elsewhere, fighting where the rest of the blood drinkers were. Therefore he knew a different approach was needed. One that played into the blood drinkers nature. Predators loved the hunt. And to Shakran, Kai wasnt an opponenthe was prey. The moment he confirmed the blood drinkers relentless pursuit, the plan fell into place. He led him straight toward the gorge, where the real battleground had already been set. But before that, transporting Balen and the dwarf unnoticed had been no small feat, especially with mana cannons in tow. They were huge in size, and enemies could easily track them down if they saw. But thankfully, the chaos at Dorn had provided perfect cover. Blood drinkers were vicious, but even they werent omniscient in the heat of war. He knew they would have been watching the siege, so in the middle of it, he had ordered to move the cannons with the two blacksmiths in the nearby gorge. The pieces had aligned, the trap had been setnow all that remained was execution. Shakrans snarl twisted into a scream as mana ripped through his decayed flesh. The blast tore into him, white-hot energy searing away the dead mana clinging to his form. His knees buckled, body jerking as the binding circle beneath him pulsed with golden radiance, locking him in place. Teeth bared, he lunged, snapping at the bindings, but the arcane seals pulsed againunyielding, absolute. His charred flesh sloughed off, eaten away by magic too strong to resist. Kai watched impassively. A fourth-circle binding ritual. Even if Shakran threw himself at the restraints with all his might, his body would break long before the spell did. And then, the cannons hummed again. The mana cannons beam carved through the darkness, lancing into flesh that had no right to exist. Shakrans scream twisted into something more primal as the parasite latched to his body convulsed, tendrils writhing in desperation. It curled over him, a final, futile shield against the onslaught. It didnt matter. The beam intensified, searing through decayed flesh and dead mana alike. A wet squelch, then a hiss. The parasites body bubbled, its ugly form warping under the pressure. Kai watched as its flesh finally gave wayrupturing in a shower of charred remains that splattered across the stone. What was left fell lifeless to the ground, twitching once before stilling forever. With the parasite gone, Shakran had no defense. He staggered, his body unraveling before Kais eyeslimbs trembling, flesh splitting where dead mana once held it together. Blood, thick and sluggish, dripped from the deep fissures spreading across his frame. Still, he lifted his head. Eyes blazing with fury and something close to disbelief, he locked his gaze onto Kai. Kai tilted his head, meeting that stare without a hint of sympathy. You wanted to know how I found you back then? His voice was quiet, almost as if he was planning to have a conversation about dinner. You had my blood on you. He paused, watching the understanding dawn in Shakrans pained expression. I followed my own mana to track where you would strike from. Shakrans lips parted, a rasping breath escaping, but Kai wasnt done. His voice turned colder. I didnt want you to die before knowing that. A beat of silence followed. Make sure you dont cross paths with me in the afterlife. Or Ill kill you worse. Shakran made a sound, half a snarl, half a dying breath. His body sagged. Then, with one last twitch, he collapsed, lifeless. Kai watched for a moment, waiting, but the blood drinker remained still. No revival. No final attack. Just a corpse. It had ended just like that. The hum of the mana cannons faded. Balen and Tharnok stepped out from behind them, surveying the scene. Tharnok exhaled, shaking his head. Ive seen some bad deaths. Men crushed under boulders, limbs twisted the wrong waybut that? He gestured at the remains with a grimace. Thats something else. He deserved it. Kai shrugged. He looked at the little of what was left. Hes slaughtered thousands to satisfy his hunger. If anyone deserves a death like that, it should be him. Balen grunted in agreement, eyeing the mess. Itll take some work to clear this out. Kai waved him off. The local beasts will handle it. Let them. I wouldnt want anyone touching a blood drinkers corpseespecially one infested with a dead mana parasite. Silence stretched between them. Then Kai turned, gaze shifting toward the caves exit. With Shakran dead, I need to get back to the battlefield. Tharnok raised a bushy brow. I thought you were drained. I am. Kai rolled his shoulders, and cracked his neck, feeling the lingering strain in his body. Itll take time to replenish enough mana for Dorn. But I can walk. This new bodys good enough to cover the distance before I get enough mana back. His gaze flickered toward the distant horizon. Besides, Killian should be holding the line by now. *** Killian felt the battle slipping through his fingers. The field before him was a maelstrom of chaosscreams, steel, and raw mana clashing in an uncompromising cacophony. The night was alive with the glow of spells and the bright light of burning siege weapons. Blood drinkers swooped down from the skies, their shrieks piercing through the air as they tore into defenders, while the remaining mana cannons fired relentlessly, searing through the hordes. But it wasnt enough. Half the cannons had been destroyed in the first wave, shattered by coordinated attacks from the blood drinkers who had targeted them the moment the battle began. The remaining ones still held, their beams cutting through flesh and armor alike, yet they could only hold back so much. The golems and drones had deployed, fighting alongside the defenders, but even with them, victory was uncertain. Lucians forces were fewer than they could have beenthanks to the nobles they had already taken down before this battlebut the forces he had left were still formidable. Blood drinkers, dozens of Archine Tower Mages, and seasoned soldiers who knew how to lay siege. And Killian had no reinforcements. The stronger ones of the Enforcers weren''t back from the noble territories, leaving him reliant on what remainedthe gunners, the remaining cannons, and the golems. Lucians soldiers had adapted well. Their shields held against gunfire, and they knew to stay out of range of the cannons. Meanwhile, their Mages and blood drinkers focused on systematically dismantling their defenses, striking hard and fast before vanishing into the shadows. Even now, more of them swarmed the walls, scaling them with hooks and ladders, pouring in wave after wave. They werent losing. But they werent winning, either. Killian exhaled, gripping his sword tighter. Then his instincts flared. He twisted just in time to meet a clawed strike, steel clashing against unnatural flesh. A blood drinker snarled at him, fangs bared, its crimson eyes alight with hunger. The blood hungry eyes were something he could never forget. It was disgusting to say the least and threatening at the same time. He struck back, lightning crackling along his blade. The moment he swung, the creature vanishedthen reappeared an instant later, its speed unnerving. He barely had time to register the three blood-forged blades rushing toward him. His sword snapped up, deflecting them in a shower of sparks. His gaze flickered to his surroundingstwo more blood drinkers, flanking him. A frown tugged at his lips. Lets end this fast. They lunged. A blur of blood magic and claws came at him from both sides. Killian surged forward, lightning wrapping around him as he closed the distance with the nearest one. The creature raised a blood shield in defensetoo slow. His blade tore through it, his strike carving deep into the blood drinkers shoulder. A scream echoed outhigh and piercing. Killian didnt hesitate. As the blood drinkers mouth opened in pain, he shoved forward, his hand slipping into his robes. In a single motion, he flung a potion straight into the creatures face. The glass shattered, its contents splashing over its tongue and gums. The blood drinkers eyes widened in shock. Then it screamed as the acidic potion burned through its skin, its flesh sizzling and peeling away. Killian didnt waste the opportunity. He stepped in, blade flashing as he slashed through its neck in one clean stroke. The creatures body stumbled back before collapsing lifelessly to the ground. A sudden impact slammed into his back. Fuck! Pain erupted through him as a blood-forged spear tore into his armor, knocking the breath from his lungs. He staggered, gasping, as he turned to see the second blood drinker snarling at him before vanishing into the shadows. Killians gaze darted around, searching. Nothing. Sweat beaded on his forehead. His heartbeat pounded in his ears. sea??h th NovelFire.net* website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A flicker of movement occured. He barely saw the claw before it came for his throat. Killian ducked, the sharp talons slicing through the air where his neck had been a second ago. Without thinking, he surged forward, tackling the blood drinker straight into the stone wall. The creature shrieked, thrashing, but Killian didnt let up. Lightning crackled over his arm as he clenched his fist and drove it into the blood drinkers face. The impact cracked bone, but he didnt stophe punched again and again, each strike laced with deadly mana until the creatures movements slowed. His swordwhere was his sword? He spotted it a few feet away, scooped it up, and without hesitation, plunged the blade into the blood drinkers stomach. The creature convulsed, its mouth opening in a silent scream before it slumped forward, dead. Killian exhaled heavily, his breath ragged. Then he looked upand froze. The walls were swarming. More blood drinkers. More enemy soldiers. How many of them were even there? They hadnt breached the gates, but they didnt need to. Mages, hooks, and ladders had given them another way in, and his men were struggling to keep up. The gunners and Magestheir strongest assetswere being targeted first, the blood drinkers weaving through spells and mana blasts like shadows in the night. They were losing ground. Killian clenched his jaw, forcing himself to stay calm. He couldnt let despair take rootnot now. Lord Arzan had entrusted him with this battle, and he wasnt about to let it slip through his fingers. He needed to strike back. Hard. His eyes scanned the battlefield until they locked onto a towering figure in the midst of the chaosa knight, older and broader than the rest, his heavy armor gleaming in the flickering light of fire and spellwork. Killian recognized him instantly. Knight Garrik. The leader of Lucians forces. Lucian himself was nowhere to be seen, which meant this man was the one keeping the enemys strategy intact. If Killian could take him out, it would send a devastating shockwave through their ranks. His grip tightened around his sword. He ran. Enemy soldiers spotted him, moving to intercept, but Killian didnt slow. Lightning surged through his body as he dashed forward, weaving between attacks, his focus locked on his target. He was going to end this. Killian moved like a storm through the battlefield. One soldier lunged at him with a spearKillian grabbed the shaft with his bare hands and snapped it in half like a twig before hurling the man aside with a single motion. An arrow whistled toward himhe twisted just enough for it to graze his shoulder, then retaliated by whipping a dagger through the air. The projectile buried itself in the archers throat before they could fire another shot. More arrows. More attackers. Killian moved with a deadly precision as all his senses heightened, deflecting, dodging, striking. By the time he broke through the wave of enemies, his path was littered with bodies. And thenhe was there. Knight Garrik. The man in flesh. He stood at the center of the chaos, larger and broader than the others. His thick plate armor dented, but not fully pentrable. Killian could see lines of enchantments on top of it, giving the man a greater strength than he deserved. He turned as Killian approached. Their eyes met. Killian didnt stop to introduce himselfhis sword was already swinging, lightning crackling along the blade as it whipped toward the knights head. The knights eyes widened in surprise, barely managing to twist away. Sparks danced over his armor as he jumped back, exhaling sharply. Its been a long time since we last met, Killian. The knights deep voice cut through the chaos. I can see youve grown. Killian grunted, already stepping forward. And youre still the fucking same. His blade sparked in his grip. Still doing anything for Lucian, dirtying your hands like a dog. He spat on the ground in disgust. Garrik raised an eyebrow. I see youve forgotten how to respect your superiors. Killian snorted, lightning flickering around his form. Youre not my superior. I only answer to Lord Arzan. Then he moved. The knight barely raised his shield in time as Killians blade struckthe force sent the man skidding backward. Another strikehis armor sparked under the impact. Garriks eyes darkened. He dodged instead of blocking, shifting to avoid the brunt of Killians blows, but he was already at a disadvantage. Killian was faster, stronger, and relentless. His sword left scorching marks on Garriks shield, his armor denting further under the force of each strike. The old knight gritted his teeth, visibly realizing he couldnt win in a contest of raw power. He sidestepped just in time as a strike whistled past his shoulder, then spoke. His voice was undeniably calm despite the battle raging around them. Do you really think you can change anything about this battle? Killian didnt answerhis sword was already swinging again. Garrik rolled away, barely dodging, his voice still steady. You might be able to kill me but youll still lose this war. Shut up. Another strikelightning surged through the blade as Killian pushed forward. But the knight kept talking. You know Im right, he said, dodging again. The battle might be even for now, but soon A smirk. Shakran will arrive with your lords head, and we will win. Killians blood boiled at the mention of Lord Arzan. Lightning crackled violently around him, the very air humming with power. Garrik continued, unbothered. Look around, Killian. Your forces only fight because they believe in Lord Arzan. But once his head is brought here? He gestured to the battlefield. Their motivation will crumble. Their vigor will vanish. They will break. Break into tiny pieces as they already are! Killian gritted his teeth. When he arrives here, he growled, lightning surging through his entire form, hell see your forces crushed. With thunderous force, he charged. Garrik braced, raising his massive shieldKillians strike slammed into it, the sheer impact sending him staggering backward. Garrik dug his heels into the stone, struggling to hold his ground. Still, he sneered. How will you crush my forces when my blood drinkers are going to A deafening noise ripped through the battlefield, shaking the very earth beneath them. Killian froze for a split second. Garrik, too, falteredboth of them turning their heads toward the source of the tremor. And thenthey saw them. Charging through the battlefield, a massive force surged forward like a tidal wave of fury, enraged bulls, no, they were much more powerful than bulls. Hundreds of them. They were all on Bulldrakes, much larger in size than the ordinary horses the enemies were on and completely shaking the earth with every stomp. The barbariansmassive, battle-scarred warriors, their bodies clad in fur, metal, and war paint. Some wielded axes as tall as men, others bore heavy clubs and spears, their roars shaking the battlefield. Their eyes gleamed with bloodlust, their advance an unstoppable force of destruction. At the front, their chieftain, Yafgar led thema giant of a man, his arms thicker than most mens legs, and he stuck his arm out in dominance, showing off his bloodied tribal tattoo and yelled orders. Killian smiled. Like I said He turned back to Garrik, grinning as lightning danced around his fingers. When Lord Arzan arrivesyour forces will be crushed. Garriks face went pale. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 186. End of the war As soon as the barbarians entered the battlefield, it felt as if the winds of change had finally begun to low. For a momentjust a fleeting momentthe entire battlefield froze or so it seemed. The fighters that were on top of the walls, the soldiers that were on the ground, even the archers who had been loosing arrows relentlesslyall of them paused. Allies and enemies alike turned to stare as the barbarian horde roared their war cry, a thunderous sound that shook the air. And then they charged. The troops on the groundthose who had been desperately scaling the castle walls, trying to carve a path insidehad only seconds to react. Killian saw it in their eyespure, unfiltered fear. They knew. They knew what was coming for them. And at the head of it allYafgar. The barbarian chieftain was a huge man, his muscles corded with raw, primal strength. But it wasnt just his presence that turned the tide of the battle. It was what he did next. With a guttural roar, Yafgar lifted both arms and set himself ablaze. Flames roared to life around his entire form, crackling and dancing along his fleshyet he showed no pain. Instead, he leapt from the massive bulldrake like a death god descending from the heavens, his massive battle axe raised high. He landed. The ground shook under the impact, flames engulfing everything around him. Three men were cleaved in half by his first swing, their blood spraying into the fire. Gasps erupted at the sudden massacre. The rest? Burned alive, their screams cut short as their bodies were reduced to charred husks. And thenmore came. A second wave of barbarian warriors, led by Ragnar, surged forward, their weapons gleaming in the firelight. They tore into the enemy ranks, hacking and slashing, blood spewing as their weapons sank deep into flesh. Killian saw a few of them grabbing ropes and hooks, beginning to climb the walls to assist the defenders. The shift in battle was instantaneous. And with it, Killian felt something stir inside him. Confidence. A fire in his chest, rekindled by the arrival of true warriors. He felt the confidence in his chest blooming and bleeding inside him. He suddenly knew they could win this. He turned back to the knight, who was still frozen in place. His eyes were filled with shock. His jaw clenched, and then he spat onto the ground, his eyes burning with disgust. Fucking traitors. His words dripped with venom as he looked at Killian. Pure betrayal in his eyes. Involving yourself with the enemies of the kingdom? Killian simply smiled, the sparks of lightning flickering around his fingertips. Right now? He tilted his head. Theyre only your enemies. And then he charged, wanting to end this battle once and for all. Garrik barely had time to react, snapping up his shield just in time to block the impact. But Killian didnt strike mindlessly. Instead, he channeled the lightning around his legs and jumped. His body twisted in midair as he soared over the shield, flipping behind the knight before his blade swung downward. Garrik tried to turn, but it was too latethe sword carved through his waist, slicing through the metal plating. A pained growl tore from the knights throat, but he didnt staggerhe turned on pure instinct, his enchanted sword whipping toward Killians head. The latter didnt flinch. With a snarl, he let loose a frenzy of lightning, a violent burst that crackled through the air and slammed into Garriks left side of the chest. The man convulsed, his armor sparking wildly, and his grip on his sword weakened just enough for Killian to see his opening. With a final surge of power, Killians lightning ripped through the knights weapons, shattering the aethum cores inside both his sword and shield. The enchantments collapsed instantly, the once-glowing runes flickering out like dying embers. And thenKillian kicked him. The force of the blow sent the knight sprawling onto the ground, his armor scraping against the blood-soaked dirt. Killian took a step forward, his blade still crackling with power. This battle was over. Garrik groaned, his body trembling as he tried to move, his arms scraping against the bloodied ground in a desperate attempt to crawl away. But Killian was faster. With a single, merciless step, he crushed the knights leg beneath his boot. A sickening crack echoed from where their legs met. Killian clearly broke some of his bones. Garrik screamed, his hands clenched into fists, his face contorted in pain. Soon, the screams turned to desperate pants. But through gritted teeth, he still looked up at Killian, desperation flickering in his eyes. Killian... I trained you, he gasped, struggling against the weight pressing down on him. You cant do this. Youll be a traitor to all knights if you do. His voice turned pleading, his breath ragged. Youll be breaking the oath of camaraderie. Killians face didnt change. Not a single muscle. The lightning still crackled around him, illuminating the blood staining his armor. His grip on his sword tightened, and then he spat at the fallen knight right on his face. Garrik turned his facethe insult thick. I only made an oath to my lordand to the people of his lands. He leaned in, his eyes glowing with the storm raging inside him. I was just another knight under you. No one special to you. Just another blade in a kingdom that never cared about me. And youyou dont give two shits about any of us. He straightened, his lips curling into a sneer. But Lord Arzan gave me power. He trusted me with it. He scoffed. Trust! You have no idea what that even means. Garriks face twisted in horror as he realizedKillian wouldnt stop. Killian, wait The blade plunged down, piercing the knights throat. Blood spurted out immediately, covering his armor. A gurgled gasp escaped him, his body convulsing for a secondthen stilled. Killian didnt hesitate. He wrenched his sword free, raised it high, and with a single, decisive strokesevered Garriks head. Blood spurted even more, the severed head rolling onto the battlefield. For a moment, all Killian could hear was the roar of his own heartbeat. And thenhe lifted the head into the air. Silence. The battlefield, once filled with screams, cries and clashing steel, froze again. Killian turned, his eyes sweeping over the wallsover the battle that was reaching its final moments. And it was themhis sidewho were winning. The enemy forces had been subdued. Bodies lay scattered across the ground, blood pooling in the cracks of the stone. Ragnar and the other Enforcers had surrounded a last group of blood drinkers, the once-feared creatures now trapped, their claws still drawnbut their expressions betraying doubt. Killian barely had to say anything. As soon as the remaining soldiers saw the head of their knight, something in them broke. One by one, weapons clattered to the ground. Surrender. Killian should have felt reliefbut his mind was focused on one thing, one person. His gaze swept the battlefield, searching, scanning Lucian. Where was he? Killians grip tightened, his jaw clenching as he threw the severed head to the ground. He had seen Lucian at the start of the battlebut now? He was gone. Where is he? Killian muttered, lightning flickering around him once more. The war wasnt over. Not until he found Lucianand ended this once and for all. *** Ragnar gripped his mace, its weight solid in his grasp as he rushed forward, eyes locked onto the blood drinker before him. From behind, he knew he had support. His right-hand man. Wulfgar. Wulfgar swung two glaives in his hands, posing and ready to strike. The creature snarled, baring elongated fangs, and with a single swipe of its claws, a wave of blood erupted from its form, rushing toward Ragnar like a crimson tide. But Ragnar had faced worse. With a roar, he raised his shield, slamming it into the incoming blood magic. The steel flared, repelling the attack, and in the same motion, Ragnar sidestepped, moving with unexpected agility for his size. His mace whistled through the air, coming down in a brutal arc toward the blood drinkers side. But it went right past it. Without wasting time, Wulfgar sprung into action. One of his glaives found the blood drinkers arm. The creature moved fast, its blood-red eyes narrowing as it brought up its clawed hands to block. Metal met flesh, and instead of the sickening crunch of breaking bones, the blood drinker vanishedits body dispersing like a shadow. Ragnars eyes widened. Wulfgar mirrored his expression. This time, they stood side by side, awaiting where it would appear again. Before they could react, pain seared across Ragnars back. The blood drinker reappeared behind him, its claws raking across his skin in a shallow cut. Wulfgar was right on his toes, slashing his glaive across the blood drinkers already wounded arm, removing it from its form. Ragnar gritted his teeth against the pain. He hadnt faced an opponent like this before, but he had known exactly what he was walking into before entering this war. And pain would not stop him. With a grunt, he spunraw power driving his movements. His mace came around in a sweeping blow, but the blood drinker twisted, barely avoiding a direct hit But not completely. The sharp head of Ragnars weapon tore through flesh, severing the creatures head from the neck. A horrific scream echoed as dark, corrupted blood sprayed from the wound. Somewhere from behind, another blood drinker appeared. It made an alarming noise before lunging itself forward with an unnatural speed. It manipulated the very essence of its own lifeblood, shaping it into a twisting spella spear of dark magic hurtling toward Ragnar. The impact slammed into his shield, sending him skidding backward. His boots dug into the stone, his arms screaming from the force. The blood drinker saw its chance. It lunged, fangs bared A mana blast slammed into its side. The creature shrieked, chunks of flesh and bone torn away by the attack. More gunners on the wall fired in unison, their mana bolts ripping through the creatures form. The blood drinker howled in agony and, in a desperate move, dissolved into mist, trying to escape into the air A hook shot out, catching it mid-flight. Bran, one of the Enforcers, pulled the chain taut with a victorious grunt. "Youre not going anywhere," he growled, yanking the creature violently back toward the wall. With that Wulfgar was on his feet, moving to fight another blood drinker with all his might. The man had always been quicktoo quick to get on his feet. He was war-trained, never leaving an opening to attack him, even when the blood drinkers played dirty tricks. Ragnar grunted as the pain shot from his arm where he held the shield and ran to his spine. All around him, he saw more Enforcers engaged in a ruthless huntensnaring any blood drinker that tried to flee. Some were caught in arcane bindings, others blasted apart by focused spells, their wails of pain and fury filling the night air. The Mages struck with merciless precision, launching spells that burned through the drinker''s dark magic, leaving them weak and vulnerable. He didnt know what exactly those spells were, but they looked as if they were designed to kill blood drinkers. The lethal intent and the screams that followed after every contact proved so. His men and the Enforcers followed without hesitation, weapons flashing, severing heads, and ending the creatures before they could recover. Bodies fell from the walls, hitting the blood-soaked ground below. There was even blood dripping down the walls in an ungodly way. Victory was within reach. He pushed himself up, ignoring the pain burning through his muscles. Blood dripped from his wounds, but he hardly noticed. He gritted his teeth, tightened his grip on his mace, and looked at the last remaining blood drinkers, still trapped, still fighting for their lives. He let out a deep breath. Then, alongside his comradesone blood drinker charged. Ragnar barely had time to think. His body moved on instinct. Wulfgar! Behind you! The words had barely left his mouth before he lunged forward, gripping his mace and throwing it with all his strength. The air whistled as the weapon hurtled through the blood-stained battlefield But it was too late. A shadow surged behind Wulfgar. He barely had time to react before something sharp and black burst through his chest, a clawed hand dripping with blood. It took his heart from the chest. He choked, eyes wide in shock. His knees buckled, body twitching as the blood-covered figure yanked its arm back, letting him collapse onto the ground. Before he could hit the soil, the blood drinker clawed him by the neck, removing his head from the body. Fuck! Ragnar skidded to a stop, his boots sliding against the gore-slicked floor. His breath caught as he finally got a good look at the thing that had just killed Wulfgar. It wasnt a normal blood drinker. Nothis one was different. Its body was thinner, more sinewy, the exposed flesh pulsing unnaturally, as if alive on its own. Its skin was pitch-black, veins glowing crimson, and where its eyes should have been There was nothing but a deep, empty void. Ragnar grabbed his mace, stepping forward, but before he could charge, the creatures mouth split open, revealing rows of sharp fangs. And thenit vanished. This one didnt turn into mist or retreat. It simply blinked out of existence, disappearing completely as if it had never been there in the first place. The Enforcers who had been unguarded and casual just seconds ago now stood frozen, weapons half-raised, staring at the place where the creature had disappeared. sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. He looked down. To make sure. Blood still dripped from Wulfgars corpse joining the thousand others that died. Ragnar clenched his jaw, his grip tightening around his mace until his knuckles turned white. The blood drinker appeared a few feet away, and crackled, baring his fangs in a twisted grin, completely unfazed by the mace lodged deep in his side. Ragnar and the others surged forward, fury igniting their movements, their blades poised to strike. What the fuck did you do?! Ragnar yelled. To his side, he saw two Enforcers raise their weapons while Mages began weaving their spells. But before any attack could land, the blood drinker vanished, reappearing in midair. Hooks and ropes shot toward him, but it twisted through them effortlessly, moving faster than any of the previous ones they had slain. Even spells failed to touch it, their energy dissipating as it darted between them with unnatural speed. For a moment, it seemed like it would escape. Then Ragnar caught a flicker of movement in the skylightning. A blinding bolt shot down, striking the blood drinker square in its chest. The creature let out a sharp cry, faltering in the air before plummeting to the ground in a heap. Before he could recover, a figure charged toward himKnight Killian. His sword was already mid-swing, his face twisted in fury. Steel met flesh in a brutal clash, but the blood drinker, realizing escape was no longer an option, conjured a shield of thick, pulsing blood. Killians blade bit into it, struggling to push through, but before the creature could retaliate, another lightning bolt ripped through the sky, piercing the shield and searing into the drinkers body. The blood drinker snarled and vanishedonly to reappear next to Killian in a flash. But Killian was already prepared. His sword met the creatures claws, deflecting the strike, and with his free hand, he drove his fist straight into the drinkers face, sending him stumbling backward toward the wall. The blood drinker tried to rise, but crackling energy surged around him. Lightning chained him to the wall, locking his limbs in place. He thrashed violently, but before he could break free, a mace plunged into his neckRagnars mace. He twisted it inside the monsters body as deep as it could go, making more and more dark liquid spurt out. No matter how deep it went, Ragnar didnt feel an ounce of satisfaction. ARGH! he grunted. Then all the lightning in the air from Killian converged, surging into the creatures body, burning him from the inside out. His corpse collapsed onto the ground, the stench of charred flesh filling the air. Killian exhaled sharply, stepping back from the smoldering remains. But as his gaze shifted, his expression darkened, his eyes landing on the unmoving form of the Lombard. Ragnar followed Killians gaze, and his shoulders sagged. He had seen death beforewhen his tribe was forced from their lands, when his friends had been torn apart by beastsbut this felt different. He clenched his fists, swallowing the bitter taste in his throat. This loss, in the wake of their victory, felt like a dark stain on what should have been a moment of triumph. And most of it all, it was his fault. He failed to protect one of his own. He failed to Killian stepped forward, and instinctively, Ragnar lowered his head. The others beside him followed suit, their expressions grim. The weight of failure pressed heavy on Ragnars chest as he forced himself to speak. "Wulfgar lost his life.. Because of me!" Ragnars hands formed into fists by his side and he screamed. He screamed until he could no longer. He felt pain everywhere, but especially in his chest. He walked towards the corpse of Wulfgar and took the mans hand and placed it on his chest. Tears streamed down his face, one after another. Killian exhaled sharply from behind. He moved towards Ragnar. And for a few minutes, everyone including Killian and the Enforcers let him mourn. Not a single trace The blood drinker hadnt left a single trace of his identity except for his limbs. Im sorry Ragnar whispered. He knew Wulfgar was long gone. But the guilt caught up to him. I shouldve had your back. I I shouldve been with you, You had my b-back. And I failed; I failed like always. His words muffled his cries. For some more time, Ragnar mourned, apologizing over and over. And they all waited until the heavy sobs died. "Wulfgar was brave," Killian said from behind, his voice firm despite the sorrow in his eyes. He placed a warm hand on his shoulder. "And although it''s unfortunate, You avenged him" Its the least I could do Ragnar looked at the unrecognisable form. Until we meet again, he whispered and stood up. He looked at Killian and followed his eyes. The battlefield was filled with corpses, blood and so many filthy memories. Thank you for killing it. He wiped his eyes, and the blood that was in his hands smudged on his face. He was a great friend to me since we were nine. He looked down. I will miss him. Another heavy silence fell over them. And we won someone from behind broke the silence. "But we lost too many lives, Killian spoke, speaking everyones mind. Then, Killians expression darkened further. "The worst part of all" he hesitated, his hands clenched into fists, "I wasnt able to find Lucian." One of the Enforcers, Bran shifted uneasily before speaking up. "I thought I saw him in the first phase of the battle." Killians gaze snapped toward him. "Yes, but after that, there''s been no sign of him. I questioned and interrogated the soldiersno one knows what happened." His teeth clenched. "I got caught up in that, and while I did... A lot of people lost their lives. Anyway," he said, exhaling. "I need a small contingent to go with me and search for Lord Arzan. Theres no sign of him, and he moved west while fighting that blood drinker that was their leader. I think he managed to kill him, but if hes injured, then" A shout from the wall cut him off. "I see Lord Arzan! Hes moving toward us!" Killian and the others turned sharply, rushing toward the walls. As they looked out, they spotted him. Lord Arzan was moving toward them, propelled by the winds. Not flying, but walkingfast, unnaturally fast. Relief and urgency clashed in Killians eyes as he took in the sight. "Lets move," he ordered, already stepping forward. They needed to know what happened. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 187. A final attack Varzok soared through the evening sky, the fading sunlight painting the city of Veralt in hues of deep orange and crimson. Below, its people carried on with their lives, blissfully unaware of the predator gliding above them. The guards atop the walls stood at ease, their watchful eyes scanning for threats beyond the citys borders. They never once thought to look above. With a smirk, Varzok kept his cloak closer, his form blending seamlessly with the air as he passed undetected. He descended, landing lightly on top of the slanted roof of an inn. The scent of roasted meats and cheap ale drifted upward, mingling with the murmur of hushed voices. The gathered crowd below spoke in excitement, yet there was a cautious edge to their whispers. I heard Castle Dorn fell very easily. Our lord is going to finish the war soon. Yeah, I have heard Duke Lucian is just holding up in a castle, too scared to attack. Victory should come faster than we expected. Varzok''s lips curled into a sneer. Yes, some of what they said was true. Castle Dorn had been won. But victory? No. That was an illusion. The humans celebrated too soon, blind to the inevitable. Lord Shakran himself was moving to strike, and when he did, the so-called lord of theirArzan Kelliuswould fall. His severed head would be offered to Mistress Regina, and with him gone, chaos would rip through the region. Varzok felt a pang of bitterness. He would miss the carnage. The sweet, desperate cries of the dying. The warm taste of Mages blood as his brothers and sisters feasted on the fallen. It would have been glorious. But he had a mission. And if he carried it out well, when he returned to his lords triumph, his contributions would not be forgotten. Turning his gaze toward the far end of the city, he spread his wings and leapt into the air once more. The castle was in the distance, a dark silhouette against the twilight sky. Below him, patrols of armored men moved in formation, their eyes sharp, their postures rigid. There were not many, but enough to serve as minor obstacles. Still, they were only mortals. He could rip through them with ease. The only real threat would be the man called Enforcers, but according to their gathered intelligence, every last one had left the city to aid their lord. Perhaps a Mage or two remained, but that was no concern. Mages were dangerous at a distancedeadly, even. But if he closed the gap before they could react? Their heads would roll just like any other. With that thought, Varzok tilted his wings and shot toward the castle, his presence still hidden from sight. Tonight, he would complete his task. And when he returned, it would be to a castle ruled by his kind. But for now, he didnt need to kill anyone. Dark wings sliced through the night air, a silent shadow against the moonlit sky. The drinker glided over the castle''s highest spire, his gaze flickering between towers and cannons, tracking movements below. The scent of old parchment drifted faintly from somewhere within. Circling lower, he skimmed past rows of windows, keen eyes scanning for anything of worth. Then, there it wasa vast chamber lined with shelves, their burden of books stretching into the dimly lit depths. An archive. He banked sharply, wings folding as he dove toward the window. His fingers twitched, and a sliver of his own blood curled into the air, weaving a silent command. The glass cracked in spiderweb fractures, shards trembling on the brink of collapse. A flick of magic caught them midair, suspending disaster before lowering them soundlessly to the floor. Slipping inside, he let his cloaking ability fade, mana humming low in his core, conserved for the inevitable. Shadows curled around the towering bookshelves as he prowled between them, getting to work immediately, fingers trailing over leather spines, flipping pages, scanning lines before discarding each volume in search of the ones he needed. Varzok prowled through it, his eyes scanning rows upon rows of books, his fingers tracing over aged spines. The smell of parchment and dust filled the air but none of the tomes he picked up contained what he sought. Druidic magic. Lord Shakran had made it clearabove all else, those books were the priority. If Varzok could retrieve them, it would be a victory in itself. Anything elseinformation on the drones, the enchanted armor, the forges inner workingswould be a bonus. Serving under Mistress Regina had given him the knowledge he needed to learn the languages of mortals. Therefore, he was well versed in reading and had little to no problem skimming through a lot of books. But no matter where he searched, the druidic texts were nowhere to be found. A low growl rumbled in his throat as he rifled through a pile of books on a long oak table. Beginner magic theories. A treatise on elemental affinity. A stack of notes on golem creationperhaps useful, but not his goal. He marked them mentally, considering whether they were worth taking back. Thenfootsteps sounded. Varzok froze, every muscle going taut as his sharpened senses picked up the sound of soft-soled shoes tapping against the stone floor outside. The rhythm was light, unhurried. A single person. A woman. A maid, most likely. His lips curled in amusement. Easy prey. He could silence her before she even realized she wasnt alone. A quick slit of the throat, a hidden body, and then he could continue his search undisturbed. The steps grew closer. With a practiced motion, Varzok leapt soundlessly onto the top of a bookshelf, his cloaking ability activating once more, shrouding him in the darkness of the high rafters. He crouched low, his crimson eyes gleaming faintly as the door creaked open and the maid stepped inside. She was young. Her brown hair was neatly tied back, a few stray strands framing a soft face. The uniform she worea simple black-and-white maids dresswas pristine, not yet stained with sweat or dust from the days work. She moved with an easy grace, her steps light as if she were accustomed to walking quietly. Unaware. Defenseless. Varzok watched, unmoving, his claws flexing slightly as he considered his next move. Would she scream? Would she struggle? Or would she simply drop, throat sliced open before a single sound could escape? He would find out soon enough. Varzok remained perfectly still, his breathing nonexistent as the maid stepped further into the archive. He observed her carefully, waiting for the moment to strike. She wasnt leaving. Instead, she moved through the bookshelves, her eyes scanning every corner, her brows furrowing slightly. She had heard something. That much was clear. But she was just a mortal, no trace of mana leaking from her form. No Enforcer, no Mage, nothing. And yet, she was searching. Varzok almost scoffed. Did she truly believe she could find anything? Then she reached the table where he had been moments before. Her gaze flicked to the displaced books, her expression shifting into quiet confusion. The drinker cursed inwardly. A mistake. He had been too focused on speed, too careless in returning things to their place. And now, this mere servant had noticed. He couldn''t give her more time. Varzok moved. In a blink, he shot forward from the shadows, claws poised to silence the girl before she could even scream But then she looked up. Straight at him. Varzoks body locked up, his instincts screaming. Could she see him? Nothat was impossible. His cloaking ability was absolute. There was no way she could Then the air changed. A storm erupted from nothing. The pressure in the archive shifted, thick mana rolling through the space like crashing waves. The drinkers eyes widened in shock as a powerful presence coalesced into existence. Right before his eyes, from the heart of a spiraling storm, a figure emerged. The mist from the summoning still clouded the room, but through the veil, Varzok could make out a shapea towering, majestic deer. Storm clouds wreathed its body, roiling with every graceful movement. As it shook itself, the mist dispersed, revealing its full form. Its horns were long, sharp, and crackling with wind, miniature tornadoes swirling around them. Across its stormy pelt, lightning flickered and danced, illuminating the creature with a spectral glow. Its piercing eyes locked onto him. Varzok had never seen such a being before, but his instincts screamed that this creature was dangerous. Far beyond anything he could hope to defeat. Then, the creatures gaze sharpened, and its mouth opened. I told you, Claire. I felt a presence. Its voice was deep, resonant, filled with the weight of the storm itself. This pesky creature is hiding here like a rat. Bolts of lightning tore through the air, their crackling hum deafening as they surged toward him. Varzok barely managed to dodge, twisting his body mid-air as the searing light burned past him. The force alone sent a tingling sensation across his skin, and he knewhad he been even a fraction slower, the attack would have ripped through him. His cover was gone. Snarling, he called upon his blood magic, twisting the very essence of his being into crimson lances, sharp and deadly. They shot forward in retaliation, aiming for the beast that dared to stand in his way But his magic was nothing. The lightning bolts struck through them effortlessly, dispersing his attacks as though they were mere candle flames in a storm. Then the creature spoke again, its voice booming. "You are far too weak for your attacks to do anything to me." A fresh wave of energy surged through the archive, the air charged with lethal intent. "Just die and make sure you dont cross my path again in your next life, filthy drinker." Varzok gritted his teeth, dodging again as another bolt tore through the space he had been in mere moments ago. He hadn''t expected such a monstrous entity to be guarding the castle. For a brief moment, the warrior in him wanted to test his strength against the creature, to push forward and claim victory for his lord. But he knew better. This wasnt his mission. Fighting a prolonged battle here meant death. So, he ran. Vanishing from sight, he reappeared in the corridor outside, feeling the thick, crushing presence of mana still clawing at his heels. The lightning did not stopit chased him, hounding his every move, as though the beasts wrath had taken on a will of its own. Varzok flew through the halls, moving faster than ever before, weaving through stone passageways and twisting corridors. But the storm was relentless. And so was the laughter. Its voice echoed after him, its amusement grating against his pride. He needed to escape. With no other choice, Varzok rushed toward the stairway leading up. If he could reach the rooftop, he could disappear into the sky, away from this cursed place. But as he splintered the door open with his blood magic and stepped onto the rooftop He knew he had made a mistake. The rooftop wasnt empty. Men stood in formation, weapons drawn, eyes locked onto him with sharp, deadly focus. In the center of the gathering, amidst the flickering torches and steely-eyed soldiers, stood a woman who commanded the very air around her. Petite yet striking, her long hair reached her waist. She held herself with a regal poise, every movement exuding a silent authority that made her presence impossible to ignore. A noble lady, possibly. Her attire screamed so. Her posture was impeccable, the subtle grace of her stance telling of her noble blood, but it was the cold fire in her eyes that held his attention. In her hands, the air seemed to twist and curl with power. But was thatwas that water magic? Varzoks instincts screamed within him, a primal, gut-wrenching warning that set his teeth on edge. From the moment hed entered, he had expected things to go smoothly, then how? His stealth was flawless, his senses honed over countless years of hunting and evadingno one should have seen him. And yet, there she was, standing at the heart of the trap, her gaze fixed on him with unwavering precision. Varzok stood motionless, his crimson eyes flicking across the ranks of armed soldiers surrounding him. His mind raced, calculating every possibility, every potential escape route. But none were good enough. Then, as if sensing the end, the woman spoke. "Surrender, and we will make sure you don''t die. You''ll only be captured." To most, those words would have sounded like mercy. But to Varzok, they were a death sentence wrapped in chains. A fate worse than any execution. The bitter smirk that curled his lips was one of grim acceptance. "That''s a fate worse than death already," he muttered under his breath, his voice a low rasp of defiance. With a fluid motion, blood began to surge from his body, twisting and coiling like a living entity. It formed a barrier of deep crimson around him, pulsating with the rhythm of his heartbeat. The soldiers tensed, their weapons raised. The first arrow came with a sharp whistle through the air, its steel tip gleaming under the moonlight. Varzok''s blood shield responded instantly, surging to life as the arrow crashed against it. Some arrows shattered on contact, others ricocheted off with harsh clinks, but none breached the shield. His eyes flicked to the noble Mage just in time to see the glow intensify in her hands. The air around her seemed to hum with magic. A stream of water condensed into a razor-sharp beam, hurtling toward him with deadly speed. Varzoks hands shot outward, his blood exploding in all directions, forming a violent wave of crimson mist that enveloped the rooftop. The air filled with the sounds of gasps and staggered footsteps as the soldiers were momentarily blinded by the eruption. Sear?h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. In the instant of chaos, Varzok moved. His wingsmade of nothing but blood and willspread from his back, and he launched himself into the night sky, his body propelled by raw, frantic power. Arrows streaked past him as he ascended, some grazing his skin, others tearing through his clothes. Pain flared in his chest, but he pushed it aside, focusing only on escape. Higher. Faster. Away from this ambush. The sky darkened, swirling with ominous clouds. A distant rumble rumbled through the air, heavy and foreboding. The rain began to fall, sharp and cold, drenching him in an instant. His blood wings fought the wind, but his instincts screamed that something was wrong. Something far worse was coming. And then he heard it. A voice he had hoped never to hear again, cold and venomous, slicing through the storm. "Filthy drinker, you are going to die here." The same deer-like creature. Fuck. His breath caught in his throat, his heart skipping a beat. And then, with a deafening roar, lightning tore through the heavens, twisting and writhing like serpents hungry for their prey. Varzok barely had time to summon his blood again, his final defense, his last hope. But it was too late. The bolt of raw energy struck him like an unstoppable force, ripping through the sky with a deafening crack. Pain. It was unlike anything he had ever felt before. His entire body seized in agony. His muscles locked, his chest constricted as if all the air had been sucked from his lungs. His thoughts shattered, leaving only white-hot torment. He could feel his body plummeting, the world spinning out of control, the earth rushing up to meet him at terrifying speed. The castle below loomed, growing closer and closer. And then His body collided with solid stone, his skull slamming into the unforgiving surface. The world went black in an instant, swallowed by the abyss of unconsciousness. *** Kai stood in the middle of the wreckage, his dark gaze sweeping across the ruined courtyard. The scent of blood still lingered in the damp air, mixing with the charred remains of spell-torn stone. Corpses were being carried away by soldiers, their bodies lifeless reminders of yet another battle fought in the name of power. The castle grounds bore the scars of the fightcracked stone, shattered parapets, and deep scorch marks from magic that had been unleashed without restraint. All of this because of one mans ambition. He exhaled slowly, rolling his shoulders to ease the tension coiled within him. He cracked his neck to the left and right, the tension leaving him ever so slightly. Just as he turned, he caught sight of two figures approachingAnsel and Killian, both moving with the kind of urgency that only meant more bad news. Ansel was the first to speak. "Lord Arzan, we just received the report from the scouts. A blood drinker did try to infiltrate Veralt but it has been taken care of." Kais eyes narrowed slightly. "Did it survive?" Ansel shook his head. "Unfortunately, no. The Storm Sovereign struck it down. It crashed head first into the stone wall, and well, its head burst on impact. We werent able to interrogate it." Kai clicked his tongue in irritation. "Thats bad. It would have been useful to learn more about Reginas forces." He turned toward Killian next, shifting gears. "And what about Lucian? Did you find him?" Killian shook his head. "No, my lord. Theres no sign of him anywhere." Kais jaw clenched. "Were searching everywhere around Dorn, even in the nearby mountains," Killian continued. "We did find tracks, but theyre muddledits difficult to follow them." Kai nodded, thoughtful. Lucian was a dangerous man. He had been the wars instigator, the one pulling strings behind the scenes. As long as he remained free, there would be no true victory. As he was lost in thought, Ansel stepped forward. "I believe I know where he would be, Lord Arzan." Kai raised an eyebrow, folding his arms as he studied Ansel. "And where exactly do you think he is?" Ansels answer came without hesitation. "Veyrin." Kai''s eyes sharpened. "Youre sure?" "Im confident he ran back into the walls of his city, taking advantage of the battle as a distraction," Ansel continued. "The soldiers we took prisoner mentioned seeing him flee when most werent looking. It lines up with what I expected." Kai exhaled, rubbing his chin. "That means well need to march. Veyrin might not have many men left to guard it, but the walls will still be an issue." Ansel, however, merely shook his head. "I dont think that will be necessary, my lord." Kai narrowed his eyes. "And why is that?" A small smirk tugged at Ansels lips. "Because I have a way to get inside without a battle." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 188. End of a bastard Kai rode through the open fields. The banner of Veralt fluttered from one of the horses, its fabric snapping with every gust, a silent declaration of their advance. His small contingent moved in formation behind himKillian at his side, Gareth a few paces back, their armor dulled with dried grime from battle. The others, those who had emerged with only minor wounds, followed silently, eyes fixed on the horizon. They moved until Veyrins walls were right ahead. Kai could tell that the sight stirred something in Killian. The Knight who was at his side gripped the reins tightly, his lips parting just enough for a breathless murmur. Were back. Kai caught the flicker in his eyesthe chains of familiarity, the unspoken emotions of returning to a place that he had a past. It echoed something within him too. Veyrin was no mere city; it was the place where Arzan Kellius had been cast aside, where he had spent his childhood in and where he had lost the succession to Lucian. But that man was dead, his fate rewritten. Now, Kai was going to be riding back through those gatesnot as a disgraced heir, but as the man who had crushed the old order and won the fief war. Ahead, the city waited. Inside, Lucian lurked. Gareth had assured him they would breach the walls without trouble, that Lucian was ripe for the taking. But Kai had lived too many lives to put faith in certainty. The remnants of the fief war had shattered Lucians forces, but his allegiance to Regina meant there was still dangerpotions, parasites, gifts that could twist flesh and mind beyond their limits. Kai exhaled, feeling the slow pulse of his Mana heart as it stirred, replenishing the power he had burned in the fight against Shakran. If Lucian had turned himself into another monster, then so be it. Monsters could be slain. Kai kept his posture loose, but his senses sharp as the walls of Veyrin loomed closer. Power hummed beneath his fingertips, a spell waiting at the edge of his will. The wind carried the scent of stone and damp wood, but no signs of ambush. Still, he didnt let his guard slip. A small, but noticeable movement caught his eyefigures shifting on top of the walls. Then, with a deep groan of wood and iron, the city gates yawned open on their own. Torches cast wavering light on the figures waiting beyond the threshold. The guards bore Lucians crest, yet they stood rigid, their weapons at rest. But it wasnt them who drew Kais attentionit was the old man standing at the forefront, silver hair neatly combed back, robes crisp despite the tension in the air. Rubert Lucians butler that he had already gotten information on. Kai reined in his horse and dismounted immediately. The butlers lined face softened with something almost nostalgic before he bowed, his voice even yet touched with something warm. Im pleased to see you again, young master Arzan. His eyes moved over Kai, taking in the hardened stance, the quiet authority that hadn''t been there before. You sure have grown a lot. Kai met the mans eyes, the weight of the lack of memories pressing at the edges of his mindmemories that werent his. Another fragment of Arzans life stood before him, expecting familiarity that wasnt truly there. The mask slipped into place. It has been a while, Rubert, Kai said smoothly, nodding. Im glad to see youre doing well. The butlers lips curled into a smile, though his eyes held something keener than mere pleasantries. Only because I had hope, my lord. Hope that you would take Veyrin to new heights as the victor of the fief war. Kai let out a short breath, the corner of his mouth tilting upward. For me to be the victor, I still need to capture Lucian first. His gaze swept past Rubert to the city beyond. Where is he? At that, Ruberts lips thinned. In his castle. Duke Lucian returned hours ago and locked himself in his chambers. He briefly glanced at Gareth, then back to Kai. After confirming that you defeated his forces, I gathered every guard still loyal to Veyrin and not him, and attempted to seize him, but the gates are barred. We couldnt get inside. Kais fingers flexed at his side. Of course Lucian was stalling. If the fool had any last tricks to play, he would be using them now. He lifted his chin, eyes narrowing toward the distant castle. Then its time we knocked. Kai dipped his head in acknowledgment. You did well. His focus shifted over to the gathered guards. Are they all ready to swear allegiance? Rubert straightened. Yes, my lord. Your brothers rule was despotic. The people had already lost hope in him. When he returned alone, news of your victory spread like wildfire. The city is waiting for you to address them. Kai exhaled slowly. I willonce I deal with my brother. He turned, his attention shifting to Killian and the others. Lets go. Without another word, they moved, boots striking against the stone as they marched through the streets. The banner of Veralt fluttered above them, snapping in the breeze. Eyes followed themfaces lining the streets, peering from behind shutters. He had expected everything that came with him walking through the walls of Veyrin. So he didnt spare them more than a passing glance. Not yet. The estate was ahead and they walked right inside to a grand hall. There were flickering candles everywhere, but he didnt have time to take in every inch of the details. His eyes fixated on the staircase that would lead them upstairs. Rubert stepped closer. Duke Lucian took your fathers chambers after seizing the title. he said in almost a whisper. But Kai only gave a nod. He didnt know where the chamber washe simply followed the butlers lead. Through the grand halls, up winding staircases, they walked. The scent of wax and old wood clung to the air. By the fifth floor, Rubert finally stopped. Kai stepped forward, testing the door. Locked. He turned his head slightly. Killian was already moving. Let me, Lord Arzan. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. With a swift, brutal stroke, his sword cut through the wood. The heavy door splintered apart, shards flying as it crashed inward. Kai didnt step in immediately. His body tensed, waiting for a trap, a last-ditch strike Nothing. They moved inside. The room was dark, the air thick and just as they took the first step inside the room, something touched his leg. Kai stiffened, taking another look at the liquid. Since he couldnt see through the whole of the dark room, he ignited a small flame in his fingertips. Then they saw him. Lucian sprawled against the wall, his body slumped at an unnatural angle. Blood pooled beneath him, glistening in the dim light. A dagger jutted from his stomach, buried to the hilt. Yet he wasnt dead. His chest rose in shallow, weak breaths. Bloodshot eyes flickered open, locking onto Kai. For the first time, face to face, they looked at each other. And despite everythingthe war, the betrayal, the bloodshedKai realized this was the first time they had ever truly met. Sure, hed been aware of him, keeping an eye on his every move but meeting Lucian to face was different. They had been enemies since the moment Kai took over this body. But for Lucian, the hatred ran deeperhe had seen Kai as an enemy from birth. Lucians lips parted. His voice was hoarse, each word drawn out like it took effort to speak. So, you came brother. A weak, bitter smile tugged at his lips. I wanted to cut my throat and be done with it, but I knew youd come. He swallowed, his bloodshot eyes flickering past Kai to the others. Tell your lackeys to leave. Especially the butler. I dont want to see traitors in my last moments. Kai didnt answer immediately. He weighed the risks. Lucian could try somethingbut in his state, did it matter? No. His decision was already made. He turned to Killian. Give me some space. Killian stiffened. Lord Arzan, it might be a trap Ill deal with whatever comes. For a moment, their gazes locked. Then, seeing Kais eyes, Killian exhaled sharply and gave a nod. With reluctant steps, he and the others withdrew, the door creaking as it shut behind them. Silence settled. Kai turned his attention back to Lucian. Even now, even like this, there was defiance in Arzans brothers eyes. Caution tingled at the edges of Kais senses, but he dismissed it. If Lucian tried anything, it would be his last mistake. He would make sure of it. Slowly, he stepped forward, boots sinking into the thick pool of blood. As he knelt, bringing himself to eye level with Lucian, he saw itmore wounds, shallow cuts on both arms. Had he been torturing himself? Did he hate himself that much? Or was he attacked? Kai didnt know. Lucians ragged breath broke the silence. I wanted to see you in my final moments. His lips curled in a humorless smirk. To look at the man I hate the most the one who killed me in the end. Kai met his gaze, voice steady. You killed yourself. A dry chuckle. Only because you crushed my forces. My hopes. Lucians fingers twitched, curling slightly at his sides. You dont know what it feels liketo realize youve already lost. Its the worst thing a ruler can experience. He sucked in a sharp breath, his body trembling. But I wasnt going to let you take my life. So I did it myself. Kais eyes narrowed. I would have captured you first. Lucian let out a weak, wheezing laugh. Wouldnt have worked. His bloodstained teeth flashed in a grin. I was dead the moment I lost. Regina that wretched woman wouldnt let me live after such a failure. He sighed. But even without her, I couldnt live knowing I lost to you my pathetic, loser brother. And then, despite the pain, despite everything, he laughed again. Kai looked down at Lucian, the weight of the moment settling over him like a cold shroud. It wasnt too late to save him. The wounds were badtoo much blood spilledbut a healing potion could pull him back from the edge. He reached into his coat, fingers brushing against the vial But Lucians chuckle stopped him. Oh, dont bother. He chuckled again. The knives and blood arent the only thing. I already drank a lethal poison. Kais fingers curled around the vial. His eyes narrowed. Lucians smirk grew faintly. Do you know of Requilem? He waited for Kai to answer. But seeing how he didnt, Lucian continued. It seeps into your being, slow and unnoticed, and then He snapped his fingers weakly. instant death. A very special poison. And theres no cure. For the first time, Kai froze. He knew this poison. He had read about it in one of the many books in the castle library after coming into this world. There were antidotesat least, in theorybut they took time to make, and Lucian wouldnt last that long. He was already dead. Lucian studied his face and scoffed. Why dont you speak? Gloat. His breaths were shallow, but the fire in his eyes hadnt dimmed. You won, you bastard. Im dying, and you get to take everything. His voice turned hoarse. I hope you get killed too. Everyone does in the end. But yeah, you won. Kai remained silent. Lucian let out a ragged laugh. I should have killed you long ago, you know. He groaned loudly. That mana vein blockage poisonMana Banewasnt enough to keep you from gaining power or growing a spine. His lips curled. Gods, I hated how wimpy you were. So it was you. Lucian smiled, and despite the blood, it was smug. My mother, bless her soul whichever hell shes floating in. His gaze flickered as if recalling something distant. But truly it was Regina. That woman is paranoid. She wanted to make you a mortal, to erase you as a threat. But then she got paranoid His voice weakened. And decided it was better to kill you outright. The air between them grew heavy. Kai clenched his jaw. Regina. That woman had tried to cripple him from the start. And now, the last person who could give him direct answers was bleeding out in front of him, laughing in his face. Lucian let out another weak laugh, his voice barely more than a whisper. Crazy bitch Kais fingers twitched at his sides as his thoughts churned. He had already suspected Reginas involvement, but hearing it from Lucian himself made his anger burn hotter. He wasnt truly Arzan Kellius. But even so, he owed that much to the man whose body he now inhabitedto take revenge on the woman who had pushed him into a life of inferiority, humiliation, and suffering. His voice was cold when he finally spoke. Ill kill her next. Lucian spat on the ground. Please do so. His breath was ragged, but his eyes still held that infuriating glint. But I doubt even can. Shes not alone, and shes not someone you can easily subdue. He coughed. Either way, enough about her. Tell me, how did you change so much? Kai remained silent. Lucian scoffed. Is it the inheritance? Did your mother really leave you something before her death? His voice was laced with bitter sarcasm. Please tell me it was that. At least then, Ill know you didnt do it alone. Kai exhaled. He wasnt sure why he even considered answering. Maybe because Lucian was dying. Maybe because, despite everything, he was still Arzans brother. Or maybe because this was the last conversation they would ever have. Somewhere deep down, he needed Lucian to know this last piece of information before he truly went to hell. The truth is, Kai finally said. Im not Arzan. Lucians eyes widened. If the poison wasnt working, Kai was sure hed have given the man a heart attack right then and there. Because his weak heartbeat stopped for a moment before he gasped, clutching his chest. Kai continued. My name is Kai. A Magus from a different era. I came back to the past and took over this body, due to a rituala forbidden one, if you will. I know it''s hard to believe, but that''s the truth. Arzan died to Actra long ago. His gaze sharpened, meeting Lucians stunned one. So you didnt lose to . You lost to . Lucians lips parted, as if to speakbut before he could, his body convulsed. A violent cough wracked his frame, blood spilling from his mouth. Kai immediately stepped forward, but it was already too late. The last bit of light flickered from Lucians eyes, his breath hitchingthen ceasing entirely. Kai stared down at him, waiting. But there was nothing. No last words. No final curses. Just silence. With a sigh, he reached down, fingers pressing against the side of Lucians neck. No pulse. It was over. Just like that, the pathetic bastard of a man, died. Kai closed his eyes briefly before standing up. He turned, walking toward the door, his footsteps echoing in the bloodstained chamber. When he pushed the door open, he was met with the sight of Killian and the others standing outside, waiting. He exhaled. The fief war is over. Lucian is dead. His voice echoed in the hall. And then, silence followed. Then Kais next words came, cold and decisive. Prepare for a funeral. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 189. Trusting for the first time Funerals were something Kai was well-versed in. In his past life, death had always been thereand it had been everywhere, it was an inevitability that shaped his existence. By the end of his past life, no one had remained alive. He had to stand by countless graves, offering silent farewells, watching as the final rites were performed with quiet efficiency. There had been no grandeur, no elaborate ceremoniesjust the simple acknowledgment of a life extinguished, and a life not so-well lived. But in this life, things were different. Here, noble funerals were spectacles, especially those of Dukes. Lucian may have been the loser of a fief war, but Kai couldnt cast aside tradition. Noble customs existed for a reason. And so, despite everything, he ensured that Lucian received the burial befitting his statusa final act of honor. A parade was arranged, as was customary, winding through the city with the casket on display, allowing the common folk to witness the end of an era and offer their final respects. The day after the war ended, Kai oversaw the preparations. The procession moved through the streets, the pressure of history pressing down on him as the people watched in silence. When it was over, Lucian was laid to rest within the estates burial grounds, among the graves of his ancestors. Francis and a few of his apprentices were called to Veyrin to assist, and with that, Kai took the opportunity to meet the people who now fell under his rule. The laws of a fief war were set on stonethe victor claimed everything. The land, the wealth, the people. Everything. Normally, official recognition from the king would be required before the transition was complete, but Kai had no intention of waiting. His new subjects deserved clarity, deserved to hear from their ruler. Because from what hed heard so far, they deserved a proper ruler. And so, he stood before them, ready to address a populace that had, only days ago, belonged to his enemy. And Kai had to admitthe people of Veyrin clung to his every word. He had heard from the butler that they werent treated well, but seeing them now, he knew it was worse than he had imagined. They looked even more haggard than the people of Veralt had when he first took over Arzans body. Lucian had run the territory dry, squandering wealth on his own excesses while treating the common folk as little more than slaves. The fields lay barren, the farms yielding meager harvests. Merchants had grown wary, their visits dwindling. From the records Kai had found in Lucians office, it was clear the Duke had been relying on aid from the first prince to stabilize his crumbling rule. But that help would never come. And now, the responsibility fell to Kai. Standing before the gathered populace, he spoke of Veralts and Verdiss growth, of the same reforms he planned to implement here. He promised them an end to pointless wars and needless deaths. He vowed to create education programs, to rebuild their economy, to breathe life back into trade and commerce. And he promised to treat every individual the same. It didnt matter if they were from Veralt, Veridis of Veyrinhe would treat them the same. That earned a loud cheer from a lot of men despite the small section of people who knew better than to accept every word of a noble. Kai simply nodded at that and continued his speech. And by the end of it, there was one more thing he needed to addressthe rumors of him working with dark creatures. Thankfully, Lucians own carelessness made that easier than expected. The former Duke hadnt even bothered to keep the drinkers a true secret. Rather than hiding them entirely, he had relied on controlling the flow of information. But too many had seen them, too many knew the truth. And so, Kai brought forth witnessespeople who had seen firsthand that it had all been Lucians doing from the start. Whether the people truly believed him or not didnt matter. The rumors would spread regardless. The world would soon know of the drinkers, and it was only a matter of time before more questions arose. Kai just had to make sure he was prepared when they did. Moreover, he was confident that, under his rule, the people would come to see him as their rightful lord. He might not have believed it before, but after the fief war and a great deal of reflection, he had started to accept his rolenot just as a warrior, but as a ruler. He had power beyond his spells. The power to make a difference. And he intended to use it well. But if he truly wanted to shape the futurenot just of this territory, but beyond ithe had to make some important decisions. One of which was revealing the truth about what they were really fighting against. Not just nobles, not just monsters. Fate itself. Which was why, the morning after Lucians funeral, Kai called upon the three people who had stood by him the most since he had become Arzan. They gathered at the graveyard on the farthest edge of the estate, where the land opened into a quiet glade. Francis arrived with Claire in towKai had summoned her from Veralt with him. The air was heavy with the scent of damp earth and buried memories. Killian was the first to break the silence. "What are we doing here, Lord Arzan?" Kai stood among the graves, his eyes trailing across the weathered stone markers before him. His eyes lingered on Lucians newly placed tomb, then moved to the grave of Lucians father... and finally, to the one that stood farther back. Valkyrie. Arzans mother. The tomb was placed so far behind and Kais gaze lingered a little longer as he finally turned back to them. "I called you here because I need to talk to you about something very, very important." He inhaled deeply and cleared his throat. "Its a conversation that might change the way you see me. It might even make you not want to serve me anymore. And youll have questions. Lots of them. But I want to have this talk." Killian stiffened, tension creeping into his stance. Beside him, Francis and Claire exchanged a glance before shaking their heads. "There''s no way we would do that, Lord Arzan," Francis said firmly, Claire nodding in agreement. Kai let the name settle over him. Arzan. A name that once felt foreign, now it was a part of him that he couldn''t just shake off. He exhaled slowly before asking, "Let me ask you something." Anything, Lord Arzan. Francis urged him. "What do you think of the future?" Francis was the first to respond. "The future of our territory is bright, Lord Arzan. With the work we''re doing" "Not of the territory," Kai interrupted. "The future. The future of the world. What do you think will happen?" The question hung in the air, heavier than the morning mist curling around the gravestones. No one answered immediately. Claire was the first to break the silence. "It''s impossible to predict something like that, Lord Arzan." Francis nodded. "Even merchants can only predict the current market trends, maybe the next year at most. But the future of the world? No one knows how it will go. It''s too uncertain." Killian shifted beside them, arms crossed. "I have to agree. We can plan, we can prepare, but the world moves on its own accord. No one can say for sure where its headed." Kai exhaled slowly. "Youre all right." But then he paused, knowing that his next words would change a lot of things; including what they would perceive him after knowing it. "But what if I told you the future is going to be dark? That society will fall. Civilization will collapse. There will be golden eras of magic, sure. They will be talked about for years to come. But there will be a time that they will be tainted with warwars that will push the world back, piece by piece, until nothing remains but ruin. Until creatures of dead mana rise from the wreckage." The wind stirred through the graveyard, rustling the leaves in the glade. "Its already predicted. It''s the prophecy of Cycle of Life and Death. The life cycle is closing over. We are heading toward the death part of it." His eyes swept over them. "And I know youre wondering why I speak of this with such certainty." Francis nodded hesitantly. "Yes, Lord Arzan after all, its just a prophecy. It could be wrong." "It''s not wrong, Francis," Kai said. "I know because I''ve lived through it. I''ve seen the end of the world." Silence fell over the graveyard. Not the quiet of understanding, but the silence of disbelief, of something too vast and terrible to comprehend. Kai felt their stares, the unspoken questions lingering in the air. The discomfort of their silence pressed against him, but he had knowndecidedthat this moment was necessary. He waited. Even when he felt like his skin prickled due to how silent they were beinghe waited. Their eyesthey were on him. And Kai could tell, so many questions were running in their minds. Finally, Killian spoke. "Sorry, what do you mean, Lord Arzan?" Kai let out a slow breath. "I''m not actually Arzan." He hesitated, then gave a small, wry smile. "Im sorry, but thats the truth." He met their gazes head-on. "My real name is Kai. I was a Magus of the Sorcerers Tower. A tower that hasnt even been built in this era. I come from a different timeline, thousands of years in the future. One in which everything has already ended." He could see their shifting expressionsthe tension in Killians shoulders, Claires furrowed brows, the way Francis instinctively took half a step back before catching himself. "Humanity is on the verge of extinction in that future. Dead mana is everywhere. Dark creatures rule the landexactly as the prophecy foretold." Kai exhaled, the weight of memories pressing down on him. "I was the last Magus left. The last one fighting for a dying world. And when I realized there was no winning, no saving it I attempted a soul ritual. A desperate gamble to send my soul back in time and change the course of fate." His voice dropped lower. "But I was attacked mid-ritual. A tainted minotaur got to me before I could complete it." His fingers curled slightly at the memory. "The ritual didnt work as intended. And when I woke up, I wasnt myself anymore." His gaze flickered toward the gravestones before settling back on them. "I was Arzan." Kai let the silence settle before speaking again. "Thats the gist of it." His voice was calm, measured, but the truth behind his words threatened to shake the very foundation of everything they believed. "I know you all wondered how Arzan changed. Where the knowledge came from. How everything shifted so suddenly. Its because he wasnt me. Hes dead." He let the words sink in. "Everything Ive built, everything Ive doneit wasnt because of some inheritance. I never received one. I never had someone passing down ancient secrets. The only reason I have this knowledge is because of what I learned in my own time. In a future that no longer exists." He waited then, knowing the flood of questions would come. They had to. No one would simply accept this without challenge. And he was right. Francis was the first to speak. His voice trembled slightly. "Then Did you kill Arzan?" Kai turned to look at him. The old man seemed differentlike the revelation had aged him in mere moments. Kai shook his head. "No. He was already dead before I took over his body." He saw the slight flinch from the others, but he continued. "Actras scheme led him to his death. He thought he was performing a ritual to become a Mage, but it was a lie. It killed him. By the time I arrived, only fragments of his soul remained." Francis exhaled slowly, as if he had been holding his breath. "I see" The tension in his posture eased slightly, but the questions werent over. Killian was next. His brows furrowed, his voice sharp. "But how is any of this possible?" sea??h th ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai gave a wry smile, though there was no humor in it. "I never thought it was. By all logic, I should have been erased. My soul should have burned up, and I should have never opened my eyes again." His gaze turned distant. "But magicsometimes, it bends the rules. Sometimes, it transcends every boundary that should exist. This was one of those times. Somehow, I made it here. And since then, Ive been doing everything I can as a lord. As someone with the responsibility to make sure this world never follows the path I saw." Another pause. The silence between them felt heavier now, not just from disbelief, but from something deeper. It was Claire who finally asked the question none of them had spoken yet. "But why are you telling us now?" She hesitated before adding, "Lord Arzanno, should I call you Kai now?" That brought a genuine smile to his lips. "You can call me Arzan. Im used to it by now." Then, his smile faded. "And to answer your question, I wanted to tell you before. But I was paranoid. I didnt know how youd take it. There was a chance you wouldnt believe me, that youd brand me a heretic. That Id lose everything Ive built. We would lose everything. I couldnt afford it, not when there were so many other important things that had to be fixed. His eyes met each of theirs in turn. "But the battles ahead the obstacles were going to face theyre going to be harder than anything weve faced so far. I cant fight them alone." Kai exhaled slowly, his gaze sweeping over the people gathered before him. "And I realized something he paused. "Im not able to explain my decisions to you properly because Ive been hiding too much. I realized it when I spoke to Francis about going to Sylvastra. I realized it when I spoke to Lucian before his death. Its not fair to you. Its selfish to pull you all into battles you dont understand. "Thats why I wanted to come clean. Now, if you want to treat me differently if you judge me for lying so much I wont hold it against you. I would even understand if you no longer wish to serve me." He met their gazes, one by one. "I know how important honesty is. And even if I act like your lord, I want there to be respect and truth between us. So, in the end the choice is yours." Kai turned away, giving them space. He didnt know what to expect. Betrayal? Doubt? The sting of rejection? No. He wouldnt let his thoughts spiral. Not now. Silence stretched between them, thick with tension. Then Killian was the first to step forward. His fists clenched at his sides before he released a sharp breath. "This is a lot to take in." His voice was tight with emotion. "I knew something was off. I knew there was more to you, but I never expected something this complex." He straightened, locking eyes with Kai. "But despite everything, I still serve you as my lord." Kai turned, his eyes flickering with something unreadable. Killian gave a firm nod. "What youve done for me, for the people, for this landyour identity doesnt change that." Francis followed next, nodding slowly. "Killians right. I have questions, and I hope youll answer them in time. But I wont hold you accountable for this, Lord Arzanor Kai, if thats what you prefer." He smiled faintly, the wrinkles around his eyes deepening. "You made me feel like my work mattered. Youve ruled justly. The fact that your soul isnt Arzans doesnt change that." Claire took a step forward, her expression soft. "I would never leave your service, Lord Arzan." Her smile was small but unwavering. A quiet understanding passed between them all. "And none of us will speak a word of this," Killian added firmly. A weight Kai hadnt even realized he was carrying suddenly lifted from his chest. He let out a slow breath, nodding. "I appreciate you all. And trust me, Ill answer whatever I can. You deserve that much." He turned back toward the open ground, his expression shifting. "But before we talk further, before I explain everything" He glanced at Francis. "We need to dig another grave." Francis frowned. "For whom?" Kais gaze darkened, yet there was an odd sense of peace in his voice. "For Arzan. He deserves to rest." Silence fell again, but this time, it carried a different weight. "I will make sure people know his name," Kai continued. "Thats the least I can do for him. But he deserves rest. And once we are done with the questions and the grave digging, we can move toward the next task of getting the territory together. It will take some time since we have so much of it to work through now. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. Volume 3 Epilogue 1 The corridors of the royal palace stretched before King Sullivan. He absentmindedly stared at the golden glow that was illuminated by the torches that lined the walls while walking. His attendants walked briskly at his side. Behind him, ever watchful, strode his Knight Roderic. Today, Sullivans destination was neither his throne room nor his private chambers. Not even his beloved garden, the one place where he could steal moments of peace, away from judgemental eyes and untouched by politics and the burdens of rule. No, his steps carried him toward the council chambersa place he had deliberately avoided for years. He had lost track of time again. The scent of blooming roses, the rustle of leaves, the fleeting illusion that he was simply a man rather than a king had lulled him into lingering longer than he should have in the garden. But reality had called him back, as it always did. Though, he was still late today. The matters being discussed were important enough for him to break his three-year absence from these meetings. It had been because he had gotten fed up with the same topicspower struggles, territorial concerns, and the ever-looming question of stability. But today, something else was there. And as he reached the grand doors of the chamber, an attendant moved swiftly, pulling them open with a deep bow. Sullivan halted and turned to his Knight. "Walk with me inside." Roderic gave a slight nod before hesitating. "Your Majesty, the nobles may find my presence unsettling." Sullivan smirked, the corner of his lips curling with amusement. "Oh, I have no doubt they will. But you are here for my protection. Those old nobles have spent years waiting for me to falter, eager to carve out more pieces of the kingdom for themselves. Whos to say one of them hasnt brought a dagger for me today?" Roderic didnt question it further. He simply nodded and fell into step beside his king as they crossed the threshold. The moment they entered, the chamber fell into stunned silence. Parchments were lowered, whispered conversations ceased, and every noble and minister in the room hurriedly scrambled to their feet. They were shocked and uneasy before they dipped into deep bows. King Sullivan chuckled, the sound rich with amusement. "Judging by your faces, I suppose you all thought I wouldnt attend this meeting either." The nobles and ministers exchanged glances, clearly unsure of how to respond. Finally, one of them stepped forwarda man of middle age, draped in fine robes. Count Pious, a seasoned politician and the Minister of Trade, cleared his throat before speaking. "We were merely preparing for the discussion before your arrival, Your Majesty. After all, we had been informed about it." Sure, you were. Sullivan gave a slow nod, letting the matter drop. He moved to his seat at the head of the long oak table and settled in. "The matter at hand was important enough for me to be here today." With that, the nobles finally allowed themselves to relax, if only slightly. They followed the king, taking their seats, though the tension in their shoulders remained. Roderic remained standing beside the king, hands resting lightly on the pommel of his sword. Sullivan exhaled, gaze sweeping over the assembled men. "Why dont we start the discussion, then?" Lord Belmont who sat a few paces away, and was handling the Ministry of Internal affairs gave a slight nod and picked up a parchment. "Yes, Your Majesty. We were just about to discuss the plague that has overtaken seventy percent of Vardenfall''s territory and how we are at risk of" Sullivan raised a hand, silencing him with a single motion. "Lets discuss that later." His tone was firm, brooking no argument. "Im here for something else. The fief war." sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. At his words, the chamber seemed to grow colder. Expressions shifted, postures stiffened. Sullivan leaned back slightly, his gaze sharp as he surveyed them. "Im certain all of you know the results." No one spoke, but their expressions spoke volumes. Their unease was palpable, but more than thatnone of them had truly processed what had happened. "Until now, you hadn''t been able to accept it, have you?" Sullivan added, his words cutting through the air like a blade. Count Pious, the first to speak earlier, cleared his throat. "Your Majesty, we had intended to discuss the matter at the end of the meeting due to its complexity." Sullivan raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "If its so complex, then we should address it first and get it over with." He gestured with a flick of his fingers. "Why dont you explain to everyone exactly what happened?" Count Pious hesitated, but after a brief moment, he nodded, steeling himself. "As you know, Your Majesty," he began, "Duke Lucian Kellius accused his brother, Count Arzan Kellius, of using dark forces to bolster his power. It happened after the whole village of Baron Idrin was massacred accusedly by Count Arzan due to a land conflict they were having, and in retaliation, Duke Lucian called for a fief war, claiming vengeance for Baron Idrin. Majority of the noble houses in the Sylvan enclave came to his support." The nobles exchanged glances, some nodding along, others looking grim. "What followed was" Pious hesitated, pressing his lips together before continuing, "unexpected. From the reports gathered, Count Arzan won a series of victories, systematically dismantling his opponents. One after another, noble houses in the Sylvan Enclave fell before him and he captured them. And ultimately he emerged as the undisputed victor of the fief war." A heavy silence followed. King Sullivan watched the noble''s faces shift from discomfort to reluctant acknowledgment. They were still grappling with what this meant. "And," he mused, "none of you expected that outcome, did you?" Silence remained, but Sullivan already knew the answer. Because neither had he. Count Pious faltered for the briefest of moments, his composure slipping just enough for the other nobles to notice. He hesitated but ultimately continued, voice steady. "Even if Count Arzan won the war, it has been confirmed that Duke Lucian Kellius is dead. We have already received word of a funeral being held in his name, and as it stands, all of Duke Lucians former territory is now under Count Arzans control." He paused. "Your Majesty, we have not seen a fief war this bloody in decades. And since one of the key parties involved is now deceased, we cannot hold a royal arbitration. We require your judgment on the appropriate punishment for Count Arzan." Sullivan tilted his head. "Punishment? Why?" At once, all eyes turned toward Count Pious, waiting for his answer. The tension in the room thickened, but the count did not waver beneath the scrutiny. "As you know, Your Majesty," Pious pressed on, "Duke Lucian was killed by his own brother. Even in a fief war, noble conduct dictates that one should capture their opponent, not execute them outright. We are all part of the same kingdom. That makes Count Arzan both a kin slayer and a criminal. A murmur of agreement swept through a handful of nobles, emboldened by Pious words. More voices joined in, but before the discussion could spiral, Sullivan raised a single hand. The chamber fell into silence. His gaze lingered on Count Pious before he finally spoke. "When you explained the details of the fief war earlier, you mentioned that Count Arzan captured the nobles who stood against him. There are no reports of him executing them, correct?" Pious hesitated. "No, Your Majesty." Sullivan leaned forward slightly. "Then tell me, how can we be so certain that Arzan killed his brother? If he had the restraint to capture the others, why would he kill only Lucian? Given everything he has accomplished, he is clearly well-versed in the law and understands the expectations of nobility. I find it suspicious that you are so eager to brand him a criminal without a proper investigation." That made some nobles shift in their seats uncomfortably. Lord Gaius, a noble from the eastern territories, finally spoke up. "But couldn''t it be because of rivalry? By all accounts, Duke Lucian and Count Arzan were not close. None of the Kellius brothers seemed to get along, and Duke Lucian was the strongest voice opposing Count Arzan. It stands to reason that he would have wanted him dead." Sullivan exhaled, fingers tapping lightly against the table. "That could be the case," he admitted. "But I am inclined to give Count Arzan the benefit of the doubt." Count Pious frowned. "Why is that, Your Majesty?" Sullivan smiled, though it didnt reach his eyes. "Because Count Arzan has been one of the most promising individuals to emerge in the last year. Heat stones, the blocking of a beast wave, mana cannonsthere are even whispers that his Knights have the capabilities of Mages. He has proven time and time again that he is an asset to this kingdom, not a liability." The chamber was silent, the nobles absorbing his words. "More importantly," Sullivan continued, his voice dropping slightly, "this fief war is far more complex than it appears at first glance." He let that statement linger before turning his piercing gaze back to Pious. "I am certain you have received reports of strange creatures known as blood drinkers appearing during the fief war. They were fighting against Arzans forces, were they not?" He leaned back, tone almost amused. "At least, that is what my reports tell me. So tell me, Count Piouswhy did you conveniently leave out that little detail in your earlier statement?" The count paled. He opened his mouth, then closed it. His lips pressed together as if struggling to find the right words. He did this once. Twice. The silence stretched uncomfortably, and King Sullivan, watching him closely, internally smirked. he thought. The count was part of the first princes alliance. Admitting that Duke Lucianone of their ownhad possibly collaborated with dark creatures would taint their factions image beyond repair. It was a delicate situation. Too delicate. Finally, Pious spoke once the silence stretched too far. "Because, Your Majesty, there is a higher chance that these so-called sightings are merely rumors. After all, how do we even know that these creatures were truly present? Would it not be reckless to base accusations on unverified claims? We should investigate further before branding anyone." Sullivans smile was apparent, knowing he got him right where he wanted to. "Exactly. Just as we need to investigate the existence of these blood drinkers, we must also look deeper into the entire fief wargather testimonies, weigh the factsbefore deciding on any course of action." He let his gaze rake around the room. "Moreover, Im sure all of you are well aware of the kingdoms laws regarding fief wars, particularly when one of the involved lords is slain." A few nobles nodded, though some seemed hesitant. Fief wars had been common in the kingdoms history, and laws were established to handle their outcomes. The most frequently used method has always been royal arbitration. The king would summon both lords, hear their arguments, and decide the resolutionoften before bloodshed escalated too far. It was the fastest and most effective way to settle disputes. But that option is no longer available. Because Duke Lucian was dead. Without both parties present, royal arbitration is impossible. That left them with two choices. The firstpunish Count Arzan immediately and brand him a criminal from the start. Or to give him a chance to speak for himself in the Assembly of Judgment. King Sullivan closed his eyes for a while, thinking. So I believe we will be going for the Assembly of Judgment? The chamber stilled. A few sharp intakes of breath echoed through the hall. The murmurs from before turned to hushed, urgent whispers. Finally, Minister Percival, in charge of public order raised his query. "Your Majesty, the Assembly of Judgment has not been called for centuries. Are you certain?" Another noble quickly added, "It would take too long. Gathering every noble of the kingdom to weigh in on a single count? Surely, Your Majesty, that is excessive." Sullivans expression did not change. "Time is irrelevant in matters of justice. We will allow Count Arzan the opportunity to defend himself, present his case, and provide testimonies. In turn, every noble of the kingdom will decide his fate." Count Pious frowned. "But Your Majesty, the resourcescalling every noble to the capital for one man" Sullivan cut him off with a wave of his hand. "It does not matter. Not until we uncover the full truth and reach a solution." He clutched his hands in front of him and looked around. They all looked like they could be raising a thousand questionsbut he just asked one thing: "Does anyone object?" Silence. None dared to speak. "Then send the royal heralds. Make it quick. The matter will stay at hold until the Assembly. And then he stood up to leave. Before he could take a step, Count Piouss voice cut through the air. But your majesty, what about the other matters? The plague? The resources needed to deal with it Sullivan turned slowly, his eyes narrowing, his voice a low drawl. You are all capable enough to begin the meeting without me, he said, So you are more than capable of dealing with a plague on your own. If not, he added, a flicker of a smile barely curving his lips, send one of my sons. Theyre just itching to get more merits, after all. Suddenly, everything fell into an extremely awkward silence, the weight of his words lingering longer than necessary. He could feel their eyes on him, could hear the faint rustling of robes and shifting weight as the nobles shifted uncomfortably. But he didnt wait for them to respond. Without a glance back, he turned and made his way toward the door, the soft tap of his boots echoing in the quiet hall. His Knight fell into step behind him, a quiet presence in the midst of the bustling attendants that trailed behind, their footsteps a background hum to his thoughts. As they walked, the cool air of the corridor brushed against his face, but it did little to ease the heat building in his chest. His mind raced, fatigue pulling at him with each step, the meeting was too much. The longer he had sat there, the more suffocating it feltlike he was drowning in the sea of their expectations, their demands, their false respect. They didnt care about the kingdom. They only cared about their own agendas. Sullivans brows furrowed as his steps slowed, a fleeting sense of helplessness creeping in. He couldnt breathe, couldnt think straight after all that pressure. He could hear the murmur of voices behind him, the attendants whispers, but they were all just noisewhite noise that only added to the growing hum in his mind. But there was no moment. Not for him. Not anymore. He clenched his jaw, moving faster now, his eyes fixed ahead, trying to push away the overwhelming exhaustion creeping into his bones. The corridor stretched out before him, yet it felt like it was closing in, like the walls were pressing down with the weight of the kingdom itself. As he neared the end of the hallway, he couldnt shake the feeling that it wasnt just the room that was suffocating him. It was the crown, the throne, the weight of everything pressing down on his chest. But he had no choice but to carry it. Your Majesty? Roderics voice broke through his thoughts. Sullivan didnt answer immediately, merely continuing forward, lost in the rhythm of his own footsteps. And his thoughts ran back to what he left behind. The nobles, those faces so familiar, no longer felt like his allies. They were not the ministers or subjects he had worked with for years. Instead, they were distant figures, staring at him with a quiet resentment, as though enduring his presence rather than respecting his authority. he mused bitterly, His thoughts darkened, his shoulders heavy with the weight of a kingdom that no longer felt like his own. The thought gnawed at him, the truth sinking deeper as he walked, but there was nothing to be done. Just as the thought threatened to consume him, Sullivan caught sight of a figure emerging from the corner of the corridor. His pace faltered, his steps slowed as the silhouette of a woman appeared. His breath hitched. Regina. Her pale skin seemed to shimmer in the dim light, her white hair flowing around her. Her piercing blue eyes locked onto his, unblinking. Though her appearance had withered with age, there was a sharpness to her presence that made it impossible to ignore. The aura she exuded pulled every gaze in the hallway toward her. She walked slowly, her long woolen coat trailing behind her, the dark fabric sweeping against the stone floor. A small entourage of maids followed in her wake. As Regina drew closer, Sullivan felt a sudden chill that had nothing to do with the draft of the corridor. Their eyes locked, and time seemed to freeze between them. He could feel the tension in his muscles as he fought to remain impassive. "Have you lost your way?" Sullivan said as irritation twisted his features. "You aren''t allowed to come to this part of the castle." Reginas lips curled into a cold smile. He could read amusement all over her features. "Oh dear," she said "You are barring your wife from entering a castle that''s ours?" Sullivans jaw tightened. The last thing he wanted was a confrontation, but there was no mistaking the challenge in her gaze. "It''s not yours. And you ceased being my wife in anything but name long ago." His gaze was cold, betraying no hint of the hurt that had once been buried beneath his resentment. Regina narrowed her eyes for a brief moment and then she slowly shook her head. "Why so much hate?" she asked, her voice soft but laced with a condescension that made Sullivans blood boil. He didnt hesitate, the words tumbling out. "You killed my wives. My sister lost her life. My brother hung himself." "I dont think anything like that was my fault. One of your wives fell down the stairs and another drowned due to a beast suddenly appearing in the castle lake. Your sister lost her life because she married the wrong man, a psychopath who tortured her to death. Your brother was too incompetent and lost his whole territory in a beast wave. He chose to end his life. I wasnt at fault." Sullivans chest tightened with fury, his grip on his emotions barely contained. "Keep saying that to yourself," he muttered under his breath, turning away. But before he could walk off, something in Reginas presence anchored him. He paused. "I know you were behind the fief war." Reginas eyes flashed, but she bit back whatever words had come to her lips. Sullivan didnt give her the chance to respond. "I sent my men to stop it. They were killed before they even reached the Sylvan Enclave. But you lost. Your pawn lost his life. And no matter how much your nobles try to pressure me into punishing Arzan, I will make sure he gets to face a fair trial. And I have a feeling he might be able to succeed in it too." Her composure faltered, a slight twitch at the corner of her lips betraying a moment of unease. Her icy demeanor cracked for the briefest second before she quickly smoothed it over, a frustrated sigh escaping her. "You are insufferable." She took a step back, as though ready to walk away, but Sullivans voice stopped her. "I know youre worried." He leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he leveled his gaze on her. "The man might get enough reputation and a good name to stand against you. You hated what I gifted Valkyrie, but now, looking at you, I feel like that was the best thing I did as king." Regina turned sharply. "If youre planning something with that Arzan," she said, "Know that he needs to be alive for any of your plans." With a final, lingering glance, she turned on her heel and walked away, her entourage following in her wake. Sullivan stood motionless. As she disappeared from view, a wave of emotions rushed through himregret, anger, frustrationbut he pushed them aside, focusing on the task at hand. He turned to Roderic, who had remained quietly observing the exchange. "Send a personal letter to Arzan. I might not be a good king anymore, but I wont let my kingdom fall to her." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. Volume 3 Epilogue 2 A man walked up the stairs carved into the rock of the mountain, his steps silent as torches flickered on the wall. The labyrinth of corridors, each winding deeper into the heart of the cave, had long since become his home. He could smell the scent of home in the damp earth and stone. For a century, this had been his sanctuarya web of stone and shadow. Yet, today, he was not here for comfort. He had a destination, a duty that could not be delayed. As he ascended, figures passed him by, their faces half-hidden by cloth masks, eyes glinting with respect. They bowed without a word, an unspoken acknowledgement of his status. He paid them no mind, his thoughts firmly set on where he was heading. Blessings, even to the loyal, were not given freely, not today. His journey was urgent, and time was slipping away. He quickened his feet. The spiraling staircase seemed endless as it wound upward, the stone steps cold under his bare feet, the flickering torches lighting only a portion of the way. When he reached the top, he was greeted by two guards standing before a massive stone door. Without hesitation, they bowed, recognizing him instantly, and opened it for him. The scent hit him the moment he entered. It was intoxicating, rejuvenating, a reminder of his long existence. The dark corridors stretched before him, walls, floor, and ceiling all soaked in a thick, oppressive aura of dead mana. The air around him felt thick with the weight of this forsaken power, each breath he took filled with the essence that made him feel alive in ways that nothing else could. The dead mana clung to his skin like a comforting shroud, an old friend that healed more than it harmed. The farther he walked, the more the sense of vitality filled him. That was why he loved it here. Every cell of his being thrummed whenever he visited. He walked deeper into the blackened passage, drawn to the heart of this place, where the largest concentration of dead mana pulsed like a heartbeat. The power here was overwhelming, almost suffocating, yet it was precisely what he sought. It was a fountain of dead mana, and he reveled in its embrace. It was the closest he had ever been to true healing, to the restoration of something that had been lost long ago. He continued forward, the silence of the cave stretching on around him, until he finally emerged into an opening. The ceiling was high above, a jagged hole in the rock allowing the sunlight to pour in, filling the cavern with a wash of pale light. But the man did not see the sunlight. His gaze was locked on the center of the cavern. A creature lay sprawled in there, occupying nearly all of the vast space. It was a dragon, magnificent in its sheer scale, its body black as the void itself. Every inch of its form seemed forged from the very dead mana that saturated the cave. Its wings were folded neatly against its body, the tips almost touching the farthest reaches of the cavern, and its horns were so large they seemed to stretch up toward the hole in the ceiling, reaching for the very sky. Their master. This was the hope that burned within their hearts. The creature lay motionless, but its very presence reverberated with power, with a force that could shake the world. A god, yet to descend upon the realm, waiting for the right moment to emerge. It was more than a creatureit was the embodiment of an ancient cycle, a being of unimaginable power that could alter the fate of the world. As the man stood before the dragon, contemplating its majestic form, a voice broke the silence. A low, rumbling sound that vibrated through the air like distant thunder. He turned swiftly to see who was approaching him. The newcomers height reached easily eight feet, and his robe trailed along the ground, dark and flowing like liquid night. As the man opened his mouth to speak, the light flickered off his sharp, elongated fangs. The mans eyes narrowed, recognizing the blood drinker for what he was. Xantheus, Dravros said. Youre late. Weve been waiting here for ten minutes. With a swift movement Dravros extended one of his hands, fingers tipped with sharp claws, and pointed toward two figures in the distance. On the far side of the cavern, a woman sat atop a large boulder, her posture relaxed yet regal. Her large, leathery wings, pale as alabaster, stretched out behind her, giving her a presence as vast as the cavern itself. Her sharp features were softened only by the grace of her movement, though her eyes gleamed with an unsettling mix of wisdom and cold. One wouldnt know if they should be fascinated or scared by her. Next to her, a massive figure stood, easily over ten feet tall. A titan-like beast, with skin as white as marble, and the musculature of a creature carved from stone. His arms were thick with bulging muscles, and he held a massive axe in his hand, its blade shiningsharp. Xantheus surveyed the duo, then shifted his gaze back to Dravros. Two people are missing, he said. Dravross lips curled slightly, the fangs glinting in the dim light. They wont be coming. You know how they are, he said with a flick of his hand. Xantheus nodded, his steps carrying him toward the center of the cavern. I get it. Careless. Can''t leave their places. Useless. At least one of them, according to the reports Ive received. He paused, eyes narrowing, as he looked at Dravros. But Im surprised youre here. I heard you lost one of your adopted children recently. Dravross face fell. Anyone not strong enough will ultimately die, he said, his voice a low growl. Only one being is eternal, and we all serve him. Xantheuss gaze sharpened, and he replied coldly, Good way to hide behind your faith in your failure. It wasnt mine, Dravros snapped, his fangs showing as he spat the words, It was Reginas. Before Xantheus could respond, the woman sitting on the boulder spoke up, cutting through the tension in the air with her sharp voice. If you all are going to fight, then why are we here? Her eyes narrowed as she glared at the group. Youre disturbing the great one with your nonsense talks. Dravros raised an eyebrow. Its not my fault this manhe pointed a clawed finger at Xantheusis always in the mood for trouble, Selenia. The titan-like beast merely grunted at the conversation, a low, guttural sound that carried a hint of annoyance, but said nothing. It doesn''t matter, Selenia said. Now that no one else is needed, we should start what we came here to discuss. Both Xantheus and Dravros nodded and the group finally walked towards the dragon, surrounding its colossal claw. Selenia sighed, her wings rustling softly as she spoke again, her voice filled with quiet despair. I feel like the future we all envisioned is just getting farther and farther away from us. There was a brief silence as they all considered her words. The air in the cavern felt heavy with unspoken doubts, and the dark power that lingered seemed to pulse in time with the beating of their hearts. We need to do better, Selenia continued, her gaze fixed on the dragons claw, to spread our lords influence everywhere. Xantheus nodded slowly. I believe we are doing good enough. Vanderfall is already falling, and no one will be able to do anything about the plague. Their army is already destroyed and no other country would dare touch it until it starts engulfing them too. He paused, his thoughts lingering on the political turmoil outside. Unfortunately, we cant push it to Lancephil much. Just at the edge of it. Regina wants her idiot son to be a hero. I still dont understand why she cant just take the kingdom after killing her husband. Dravross lips curled into a thin smile. The civil war isnt good for anyone. We need a puppet there, someone who can take every criticism for us. Her son is good enough for that and she needs the public to get on his side before she could try anything. Nobles might in charge, but commoners are numerous. Xantheus frowned but said nothing. The discussion had veered into dangerous territory, but Dravros was rightReginas son was a means to an end, a pawn in a much larger game. But even Dravross cold pragmatism couldn''t hide the growing uncertainty among them all. They could feel it, as if the very earth beneath their feet was trembling in anticipation of somethingsomething they couldnt control, no matter how much power they had amassed. Xantheus stood still for a moment, letting the tension in the air settle, before speaking, We dont have to do everything ourselves, and in the end, its Reginas matter. But its Maleficias matter as well. The throne should have been ours by now. Before Dravros could respond, Selenia, her wings slightly fluttering as she shifted, spoke up. I agree with Xantheus, she said, her gaze meeting Xantheus. But I am also willing to give Regina more time. Either way, the plague can be left alone now. With Vanderfall gone, we can focus on other countries. Her eyes turned to the titan-like beast standing nearby. Im sure Bracker has done well subjugating the monster tribes back in the Zarran plains. Bracker, the massive monster, finally opened his mouth, his voice deep and gravelly, like boulders grinding against one another. Yes, theyve decided to follow the lord, he said, and soon, we can launch our crusade on the whole world. Xantheus raised a hand, signaling for calm. You are being impatient, he said. Before anything, we need to deal with our biggest problem. Dont forget what the prophecy has said. Until we get rid of the Elder Tree, nothing is going to work. The Elder Treean ancient force whose roots ran deep into the fabric of the world itself. They all knew the prophecy well. Until it was dealt with, their plans would falter. And that was why everyone was silent for a good second; they were all thinking the same. Finally, Dravros spoke. The tree will fall without us interfering. Selenia shook her head slightly, her eyes narrowing with impatience. Too much time waiting for our lord. I can feel him. The dead mana bubbling inside him. He wants to open his eyes, show the world his strength, and capture it to rule it. But its us who need to prepare the world for his arrival. Xantheus exhaled slowly. So, you called the meeting to make us go after Sylvastra and kill the Elder Tree? Selenias eyes glinted with determination. Its not really just a tree we can chop down, you know, she said, a slight smile tugging at the corners of her lips. But its taking too much time. By now, we should have had Lancephil and started our crusade against the other kingdoms. Its not just this continent. Theres so much more on the other side of the world. Since things are faltering, we need to take the matter into our own hands. Im sure we can find a way to Sylvastra, even with the fog around it. S~ea??h the Novel?ire(.)ne*t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Xantheuss eyes darkened as he processed her words. I can do something about it, he said. But its going to take time. Dravross lips curled slightly. What doesnt take time? he muttered, then paused. If we want to do it, its going to take a lot of effort. Well have to take more of the servings from our lord. Selenias expression softened. I doubt the lord is ever going to mind. Hes here to give everything to his followers, to make us feel loved like a father. Bracker spoke up. Or mother, he added, a strange understanding in his tone. The lord aint bound by gender. Xantheus regarded them all, sweeping over the group, before he nodded slowly. They were right. The lord did not care for such trivialities as gender, and their faith in him was unquestionable. They all served him, and he would provide. But the task ahead was not an easy one, and time was no ally. We move forward, Xantheus said, his words laced with finality. Prepare yourselves. We have a great deal of work to do, and our future is hanging in the balance. Everyone nodded in agreement, their focus fixed on the colossal form of the dragon, Malefic. The beast sprawled in the center of the cavernous room, its black scales gleaming ominously. Their eyes traveled over its massive body, from the deadly claws that curved like the sharpest blades, up to the intimidating face and down to its closed wings. But as their eyes moved across its form, they landed on something unsettlingjust beside its heart, a small hole in its chest. The hole was a grotesque sight. Parasites, writhing like living shadows, squirmed inside the opening, each one appearing as though it were a separate entity, battling for space within the dragons body. It looked as though something elsesomething alivewas stirring beneath the black, mana-infused shell of the beast. A grim silence followed, each member of the group staring at the sight, before Xantheus stepped forward. His cloak flowed behind him as he approached the dragons chest, his hands outstretched. With deftness, he reached into the opening, his fingers brushing against the blackened flesh before grasping one of the parasites firmly in his hand. A chilling grin spread across his face as he held the wriggling creature, its form shifting and thrashing in his grip. The others watched. "With our lords blessing," he said as he stared at the parasite, "killing the tree wont be hard." *** Khalid kneeled, his body tense as sweat trickled down his back, the heat of the desert sun making his skin feel like it was being scorched. His eyes remained fixed on the sand beneath him, the grains swirling in the wind that whipped at his face. He stifled a cough, careful not to break his composure. His tribe had been proud once, fierce in the desert, but now, they knelt here, alongside the others, hoping to blend in, to remain unnoticed. Every movement was calculated, every breath controlled, so as not to attract any unwanted attention. He stayed low, trying to make himself as small as possible. Footsteps echoed in the distance, growing closer with each passing second. The vibrations in the ground made his heart race, but he stayed still, watching the sand swirl around his knees. A large foot, the color of the desert sand, passed by just inches from him, and he could feel a shiver run down his spine. His breath caught in his throat, but he did not allow himself to falter. He kept his eyes fixed on the ground, though a wave of dread washed over him. More footsteps followedmassive, thudding steps, accompanied by the noise of others walking in unison. The sound grew louder, closer, until it was impossible to ignore. Then, a gruff voice barked, booming across the sand, "Rise up, face me." Khalid hesitated for just a moment, but then slowly raised his head. He kept his gaze low, just enough to see the hulking forms in front of him. His heart skipped a beat at the sight, even though he had seen it countless times before. Standing before him were beings that could not truly be called human, monstrous and authoritative. Creatures larger than seven feet, their bodies filled with tattoos and piercings, their bare skin the color of sand. He couldnt bring himself to focus to read the tattoosCbut they were there. They wore littlejust cloth wrapped around their legsand skull caps adorned their heads, giving them a barbaric, untamable look. These were the Duneborn Orcs, more beast than man. The Duneborns eyes gleamed with cruel amusement as they looked at the kneeling humans. Some laughed, their guttural voices harsh and incomprehensible, cracking jokes in their own tongue that sounded like growls and snarls. Behind the orcs, the other humans stood. They did not kneel like the others; they stood tall, proud of their betrayal, and sneered at the humans who had been forced into submission. The sight of them made Khalids blood boil with anger, but he held it in check. He could not afford to let it show, not here, not now. In the center of it all, one of the orcs stepped forward, a large figure whose presence commanded the entire desert. His skin was a deeper shade of sand, his muscles rippling with power. His face was a grotesque mask of scars, and his eyes burned with an unsettling intensity. This was Zethar. His voice, when he spoke, rumbled across the sand like thunder, sending a jolt of fear through Khalids chest. "Humans," he began, his voice booming across the sands as he spoke in their tongue. "I am pleased to see that you have gathered here at our first summons, prostrating yourselves before us, the mighty Duneborns. For far too long, your tribes have been under our rule, yet we have begun to notice a troubling trend. You have started to treat usyour new masters, your overlordsas though we are mere pushovers. Last months tributeyour food, your pelts, all your precious goodsbarely sustained us. We were forced to hunt for prey ourselves just to survive. And now, the Overlord of the Dunes, Khorvash, and Belkhor, the Eternal One, are angry with you. We can not starve our Overlord. You stand here today to explain yourselves. A murmur rippled through the crowd of kneeling humans, their bodies stiff with fear. Khalid looked at the fellow tribe leaders around him, but no one spoke. They all stood frozen, unwilling to be the first to anger the orc. Zethars voice dropped as he growled. "If you fail to explain yourselves, we will return to hunting. And this time, you will be our prey." Khalids heart raced as he heard the growl in his words, the threat enough to make him shake. lHe could feel the fear in the air, but none of the other tribe leaders dared to make a sound. Then, just as the silence stretched on, one brave soul finally spoke. It was Jahir, the newly elected leader of the Havari Tribe. The man was young, his green eyes hardened, his hands clenched at his sides. He met Zethar''s fiery gaze without hesitation. "The reason behind it, mighty Duneborn, is that your taxes have been far too much. We humans rely on milk and meat to survive. The amount we eat is far less than what your kind consumes. Every year, we give you the bulk of our cattle, and our lands have become barren from your demands." Jahir took a deep breath, knowing that his words were a thin line between life and death for his people. "Many of our tribes have already seen their people die of starvation, and many more are close to death. We cant survive with what you ask us to give. If we give everything, there will be nothing left for us, and soon, the tribes will cease to exist. How are we supposed to pay taxes when we are starving? We need to hunt just to feed ourselves." Zethars eyes flashed with anger, his lips curling into a cruel sneer. "Is that our problem?" he spat. Jahir stood his ground, his body stiff, but showing no defeat. "If you claim to be a minion of the overlord of the desert, then you need to understand the realities of our survival. You cant expect us to continue paying the taxes you demand when we are dying from hunger." Before he could finish, Zethar cut him off with a bone-chilling laugh. "We believe in one thing, humantaking taxes. Taxes that you pay so we dont kill you." His eyes glinted with malice as he stepped forward, towering over the human leader. "Our Overlord, mighty Khorvash, doesn''t care if your people die. You humans breed so quickly; if your tribes die, we will simply breed more of you like cattle and eat you when we grow hungry." The words struck like a heavy blow, and Khalid could see the other leaders around him trembling, some of them glancing nervously at the sand beneath their knees. Jahir tried to hold his ground, but the depth of the orcs words and the crushing power of the situation bore down on him. Zethar sneered again, looking around at the kneeling humans. "Your people are nothing but livestock to us. Do not forget your place, human. Pay your tribute, or there will be nothing left to save you." The crowd remained silent, but the fear in the air was palpable. Khalid felt his heart thundering in his chest, and though he wanted to speak, to say something more, he knew the risk was too great. The orcs were not interested in negotiations; they only understood power, and in this moment, they held all of it. "What we want is simple," he sneered. "The same things weve asked for before. If you cant give it, you will lose your life." The words were sharp, and as they hung in the air, Jahir opened his mouth to protest. "Thats" But before he could finish his sentence, the orc moved. Khalids eyes widened in shock as the orc launched himself through the air toward the man who had just spoken. In an instant, Jahir pulled a dagger from his side and tried to dart out of the way. But it was hopeless. The orc was too fast, too strong. A bracelet on the orcs ankle flared with energy, and wind surged around him, propelling him forward. The man barely had time to react as the orcs massive leg slammed into his chest, knocking him to the ground. There was no time to fight back. A single punch from the orc sent a spray of blood and flesh into the air, and the tribe leaders body crumpled under the brutal assault. Khalid froze, his breath caught in his throat as the orc continued to beat the man, pulverizing his body with each strike. The other humans scrambled out of the way, their faces pale with horror, as the sound of the beating echoed across the sand. The chilly sound of bone cracking and blood spurting filled the air. The orc didnt stop until the mans body was a mangled mess, half of it unrecognizable. With blood still dripping from his fist, Zethar raised his hand high, his rage-filled eyes sweeping over the terrified tribe leaders kneeling before him. "Does anyone else have any problems?" he asked. No one dared to speak. No one moved. The silence was deafening, broken only by the ragged breathing of the men and women who had witnessed the brutal execution. Khalids heart hammered in his chest as he looked at the lifeless body of the man who had been killed for daring to speak up. Jahir had barely been known to him, but in that moment, he realized the man had been his age. Maybe even younger. The same age as his brother, Ansel. A pit formed in his stomach as pure terror filled him. He wasnt a Mage. He wasnt a Sand Knight. He was just a man, weak and powerless, kneeling before a monster. A part of him wanted to scream, to rise up and fight back, but he knew it would be useless. The orcs were too powerful. They had all the control. As Zethar moved towards the platform, continuing to shout more threats about food and tribute, Khalids head dropped. His eyes lingered on the bloodied corpse of the man who had tried to stand for the tribes. He felt his heart ache and bile rising in his throat. For a moment, he thought about his own brother, Anselhow he had fled the desert when he had the chance. Khalid gave a silent prayer, his voice barely a whisper in the wind. Tears welled up in his eyes, but he kept them from spilling, knowing there was no one here to share his sorrow. The tribes were lost. There was no hope left for them. Only fear, and the crushing weight of the orcs rule. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. ANNOUNCEMENT If any of you haven''t read Magus Reborn Volume 1 yet, it''s your last chance to do so since it will be stubbed in 4 days. (Apparently you need to stub a week early to be on the safe side of Amazon.) I''m putting a link here for anyone interested. https://www.royalroad.com/fiction/81569/magus-reborn-mana-cultivation-kingdom-building Also a link for the pre orders that are going on right now. If you are interested to get it. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKYVN266 Sarch* The n?velFire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Volume 4 Chapter 190. Killian, Knight of Veralt, moved along the roads leading to the city, taking in the crisp morning air. His swordthe one Lord Arzan himself had gifted after the beast wave rested securely on his back, a familiar thing he barely noticed anymore. It was rare for him to forgo morning training, but today, he had chosen to jog the perimeter of the city instead. By now, his subordinates had likely already started speculating about his absence, spinning all sorts of rumors. He had long since stopped caring. He was beyond such trivialities. But he knew he needed to get away, to have space to thinkespecially after what Lord Arzan had revealed two weeks ago. No... should he call him Kai now? He wasnt sure. The revelation that his lord wasnt from this era, that he was a man from the future, had been shocking. But in hindsight, it explained everythinghis decisions, his knowledge, his unnerving foresight. Strangely, it hadnt changed how Killian perceived him. Yes, the deception stung. He had always regarded Lord Arzan as more than just his liege; he was a friend. Learning that the person he thought he knew was someone entirely different was unsettling. But he understood why the secret had been kept. Regardless, his loyalty remained unchanged. The gravity of that revelation had been difficult to process, but Francis had helped him through it. The old man had ultimately chosen to remain in Lucians territory, fixing what needed to be fixed now that it was under their control, with the butler assisting him. Before Killian had departed for Veralt with Lord Arzan and a few others, he and Francis had spoken at length about their lord; everything hed done to everything who he was. They had both come to the same conclusionthey would serve him to the end. Not just because ArzanKaihad proven himself a just and capable ruler, not just because he had been magnanimous to his people, but because if what he had revealed was true, then a mere beast wave or a fief war was the least of their concerns. Lost in thought, Killian soon found himself at the city gates. Over the past two weeks, following the wars end, the gates had been expanded and reinforced. Additional smaller doors had been built into the massive main gate to allow easier passage for pedestrians, while a separate, larger entrance was designated for carriages. And in front of those gates, a long line of people stretched outpeople seeking entry, hoping to start a new life in Veralt. Refugees were nothing new to Veraltor even Verdisbut ever since Lord Arzan had taken control of the nobles who had sided with Lucian, the cities under their rule had fallen into disarray. Struggling to keep themselves running, rumors had spread like wildfire that Lord Arzan would seize their food and wealth to feed his own territory. Fearful of starvation and ruin, many had chosen to flee, seeking refuge in Veralt, hoping to assimilate with the victor. Of course, that wasnt the only reason for the influx. Veralt had quickly become the most prosperous city in the Sylvan Enclave, and merchants passing through had made sure tales of its growth reached every corner. It was a sight to see, especially after years of abandonment. As Killian approached the gate, cutting through the long line of travelers, he caught snippets of conversation from a family sitting in a carriage. "Why is it taking so long to get in?" a man grumbled. A woman beside him sighed. "I saw them writing down everyone''s names on a parchment. Thats probably why." "Tch. Annoying," the man muttered. "Whats the point of it anyway? And those creepy golemstheyre unsettling. I hope they dont attack us." Killian passed them by with a slight smile, unfazed by their complaints. Because they wouldnt be the first or the last to find the queue annoying. As he neared the front of the line, he looked ahead to where the guards were stationed, recording the names, backgrounds, and purposes of every entrant. Next to them, several drones hovered in the airsilent sentinels. These werent the explosive ones. From what he had heard from Balen, they were still prototypes, a work in progress meant to integrate into Veralts security system soon. For now, their only function was to float above the gates, acting as an eerie deterrent to anyone who thought about forcing their way inside. He moved further down the line without giving a glance behind. He felt the streets beyond the gate hum with the usual bustle of Veralt, but today, there was something different in the aira quiet anticipation, like the city itself was holding its breath. He could feel it, and even see it in some of the faces. He inhaled sharply and continued his steady pace. The guards who were flanking the queue acknowledged his presence with a sharp bow. He gave a subtle nod back. He glanced to the side and caught sight of a few mercenariesno, adventurers nowpatrolling alongside the guards. His eyes lingered on Kellen, the red-haired one, and a memory of the beast wave stirred. The adventurer guild, led by Gorak, had come together quickly. It wasnt something Killian had expected, the way the guild had settled into the citys rhythm so seamlessly. But Goraks steady hand had made all the difference, his leadership had paved the path. As Killian stepped forward, the path ahead cleared effortlessly, the guards instinctively making room for him. He was used to it nowthe subtle shift in the crowd, the way people gave him space, not out of fear but respect. But as he moved past the gates, the murmur of a voice reached his ears. "Why are you letting him through? Ill pay you extra to let me in faster," a fat merchant in the front grumbled, his voice thick with annoyance. A guard snapped back. "Hes no mercenary. Hes Knight Killian. Show some respect." Killian didnt pause to hear the merchants reply. He had no time for them today. The city was bigger than petty squabbles, and so was he. With his head held high, he continued down the street. His steps carried him towards the left side of the city, away from the estates and the training grounds. This was the part of Veralt that had been changing rapidly, where Lord Arzans plans were taking root. Schools, libraries, projects in the makingbuildings that spoke of a future beyond just surviving, and getting the people to be educated. Around him, others began to move in the same direction, their pace quickening as they neared the educational district. And soon, he found lots of gazes on him. A child pointed, their eyes wide with wonder. A man tipped his hat with a smile and a brief, respectful nod. A woman called out, "Knight Killian, good to see you! Thank you for everything!" He returned their nods and smiles, but inside, it felt like too much, too fast. Their eyes were filled with admiration, hope, and unspoken expectation. It was a heavy burden, yet one he wore willingly. After all, he hadnt fought and bled for nothing. Not for himself, but for themthe city, the people. But he continued his walk. He slowly neared an open ground, which was quiet, save for the distant murmur of voices. He had arrived at his destination. He walked closer to the center. His boots crunched on the gravel, and the air felt thick with the weight of history that was going to take place today. Towering before him, large square stone pillars erupted from the ground, their surfaces covered in carvings and faded diagrams. One pillar in particular drew his attention. The scene it depicted was familiar, the final battle of the fief warthe day that had defined so many lives. A brave gunner stood at the heart of the scene, facing down a blood drinker in a desperate, last-ditch fight. The details of the struggle were frozen in time, a single moment where survival meant everything. Beside the image were names, neatly etched into the stone with lines of achievements, detailing the sacrifices of those who had fallen in the war and the beast wave that was before it. The names werent just words on a monumentthey were memories, lives lived, and lives lost. Each one represented someone who had given everything for the city. Lord Arzans first decree after victory had been to honor themproper compensation for the families and a memorial to ensure their legacies endured. As Killian studied the stone, he felt his heart grow heavy; a constant feeling that was in him these past few days. This was why he fought, why he stood by Lord Arzan. No matter who he was, Killian knew that this was a man who believed in justice, in remembering those who had been forgotten by time. And Killian had no doubt that he was serving the right cause. As his fingers brushed the surface of the pillar, he felt the familiar stir of footsteps approaching. He turned to see Rhea Valen, Lord Arzans apprentice, and beside her was Franciss apprentice, a young man named Sitona slender boy who helped manage the administration in his absence. The trio exchanged greetings. Soon, Killian asked the question that came to his mind. Wheres Lord Arzan? His eyes scanned the ground, expecting to see the familiar figure. Rhea shrugged slightly, a flicker of something in her expressionsomething between frustration and resignation. I saw him talking to Amyra during breakfast. Hes probably busy teaching her something. Killian caught the subtle sulking in her tone but didnt mention it. It wasnt the time. Instead, his gaze shifted to the apprentice who had been quiet until now. I think hell be here soon, Siton said. Hes not the type to miss something like this. Todays the official founding of the memorial. Sear?h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Killian chuckled softly, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. I dont think hell miss it, either. But if hes with Amyra, its gonna take some time. *** In the magical arts, there were always problems. It was a truth that had echoed throughout history, one that every Mage, from the simplest to the most advanced, had to contend with. The growth and advancement of magic had always been a matter of breaking through different sets of problems. Some of these challenges had taken centuries to overcome, while others remained stubbornly unsolved despite the tireless efforts of countless generations. Spells, techniques of mana manipulation, and even the mysteries of what lay at the peak of magicthese were problems that tested the limits of imagination and perseverance. Kai, the Last Magus of the Sorcerer''s Tower, had taken on many such projects in his time. There had been a time when he had poured over ways to surgically alter his veins, striving to improve the flow of mana within him. Another time, he had dedicated himself to experimenting with Mana hearts, trying to amplify the innate affinities of individuals. All of these projects had ended in failure, though not without yielding a few breakthroughsinsights that had pushed the boundaries of what he understood, but nothing concrete enough to bring lasting results. The experimentation had never brought him the definitive answer he had sought. Still, those were problems he knew how to approach. Problems he could see through the lens of logic, technique, and incremental advancement. He had an inkling of an idea on how to move forward with them, a framework to follow. But as he looked down at Amyra, lying on the bed before him, her eyes full of hope and trust, he could only try his best to ease the deep frown that tugged his face. He had checked her before, casually assessing her bodys quality, evaluating her innate talent, which had been off the chartsgenius level. But now, as he channeled his mana again, sending it deep into her body, he found himself in uncharted territory. His mana slid through her veins, gentle but taking everything into detail. He focused, pushing past her organs, feeling the rhythm of her pulse, but that wasnt enough. This time, his mana dug deeper, searching her bones, her muscles, her mind. Every part of her was under his scrutiny, and with each subtle shift of his power, he delved further into the unknown. Her mana stirred inside her instinctively, a subtle defense mechanism, trying to push his away, mistaking his probing as a potential threat. But Kai didnt pull back. He allowed her mana to fight back against his, a necessary part of the process. It would adjust, react, and settle. He had seen this before. His focus sharpened, and as he continued his exploration, he pushed further, deeperinto her Mana heart. His senses sharpened as he searched for something specific, something hidden beneath the surface. What was it? The source of her unique power. There was something in her, something that didnt belong to the ordinary world of magic, a force that was both familiar and entirely foreign. Every corner of his mind buzzed as he focused, determined to understand it, to unravel the mystery of her extraordinary abilities. Kais mana flowed through Amyras body like a slow river, tracing every vein, every fiber, every pulse. But no matter how deeply he probed, nothing stood out. Her organs were perfectcrafted for magic, each one designed to make her a Mage of incredible power, and her mana seemed to pulse with an unnatural, smooth flow. But there was no sign, no anomaly, that could explain why she was so immune to the dead mana. He focused again, a third time, even deeper, trying to find anything he might have missed. His mind flickered through various theories, but each time, they crumbled beneath his scrutiny. Everything in her body screamed potentialnothing more. There was no secret, no hidden power beyond what any other talented Mage might have. Finally, with a sigh, he withdrew his mana from her, sitting back on his heels. I cant find anything different in your body, he admitted. Your mana organs are in excellent condition, but theres nothing that stands out enough to explain why youre resistant to dead mana. Amyra nodded and simply sat up from the bed, a subtle grace to her movement as though the disappointment didnt fully reach her heart. I understand, she said softly. I wish I could help... but my clan only knew we had a special constitution. They never tried to find the reason behind it. Kai furrowed his brow, studying her. His eyes locked on her goldens. There was something about her calmness that made him press further. Were there any myths or folktales passed down in your clan? Anything about why you were tasked to stand against dead mana, or how it might be possible? Amyra paused, her mind clearly wandering to the memories of her home. There were bits of stories, she murmured. They said that a man gave us this duty, that he helped us settle our home... but there wasnt much beyond that. More than the past, though, they talked about a future where we would be fighting against the fiends. Kais lips thinned together as he listened, sensing the sorrow that lined her words. Did they know when that future would come? Amyras eyes grew distant. My clan leader wasnt as bullish on combat training, she continued. Weve lived in peace for a century, and according to him, the prophecy wasnt going to come for thousands of years. So the younger generation of Mages, like me, never got the necessary training. If only we had Her words faltered. Kais hand gently pressed to her shoulder, grounding her in the moment. His touch was firm, and acted as a silent reminder to focus on the here and now. I know its painful, he said; his voice sounded understanding. And your mind likes to replay every possible scenario, to wish for a different outcome. But we need to stay in the present. Right now, what matters is what we can do. She looked at him, eyes brimming with unshed tears, yet she gave a slow nod. She understood. His mind was already spinning with possibilities, but he needed to voice his plan clearly, to give her some sense of direction. I believe Ill be able to run more experiments to see if I can find the anomaly inside you, he said. Amyra raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in her eyes. What kind of experiments? Kai leaned back slightly, hands resting on his knees as he considered. Well, theres the soul inscription you mentioned. If I can get into your astral realm, perhaps Ill find more. Theres a good chance that I wont, but I need to try, and Im curious about the inscription itself. Soul inscriptions like that are extremely rare. Id be willing to bet that someone in your clan has extraordinary skill in themenough to be sought after by every Mage in the world. he paused. Other than that, we might have to run some physical experiments, too. Do we have to go out for that? Kai nodded, his eyes narrowing slightly in thought. Yes. I want to see how exactly you interact with dead mana. Whether its just resistance or something more... Thats important for us to understand the full extent of your abilities. But we wont be doing it now. Her brow furrowed. Why not? Kai straightened, letting out a soft sigh as he stood up. I have somewhere I need to be. The memorial. Its today, and after that, I have a lot of work ahead of me. The new territories Ive inherited need attention, and there are also some noblestroublesome oneswhove been causing issues with the maids. I need to have a talk with them. Amyra nodded, understanding the gravity in his tone. Alright, she said softly, her eyes briefly meeting his before she lay back down. Ill go out in a while. Kai understood that she needed space and nodded. Okay, *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. PS - Book 1 gonna stub in a few days. It won''t affect you all current readers, but I hope you all can support the Amazon launch. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 191. Caged birds Kai stood before the gathered crowd, their eyes locked onto him. Hundreds of gazes bore into him, heavy with emotions he couldnt fully decipher. But if he had to name themreverence and authority would be at the top. A sea of faces stretched before him, each marked by loss, by hardship, by survival. Some clutched at the hands of loved ones, others held themselves stiff, shoulders squared in forced composure. Children peered up at him from the safety of their parents'' arms, too young to understand the meaning behind the gathering. Yet, in all those faces, he found no open hatred. He had expected it. Deserved it, even. The burden of the dead pressed against his spine like an iron yoke. He had braced himself for resentment when he had handed out the compensation, waiting for a grieving widow to curse his name, for a father to spit at his feet. A few had hesitated before accepting the coin, fingers curling tightly around the pouches as if struggling against the finality of it. And yet, none had refused. None had openly blamed him. Was it because they had faith in him? Or had they simply learned to swallow their grief as he had? Either way, their silence didnt ease the guilt that sat heavy in his chest. A deep breath. His hands clenched behind his back. The stone slabs before him gleamed under the sun, engraved with names that would never be spoken again by the men who bore them. Names that had once shouted in the heat of battle, names that had called for loved ones in their final moments. Now, they were nothing but etchings on cold stone. He stepped forward, his voice cutting through the hush. People of Veralt! The past months have been a trial for us all. A beast wave at our gates. A war, fueled by my brothers greed, threatening to tear our home apart. And yet, we still stand. A murmur rippled through the crowd, barely more than a shift in posture, a tightening of fists. But we do not stand here alone. The peace we have nowthe very ground we walk uponwas won by those who gave their lives for it. His gaze swept over the rows of names. Each name on these stones belongs to a warrior who stood when others could not. Who fought when retreat was the easier choice. Who struck down enemies by the dozens, knowing full well they might not live to see another sunrise. A pause. He swallowed the tightness in his throat. As their lord, I am proud. As a man, I grieve. We were not strong enough to save them. But I promise you thisVeralt will never forget them. Kai yelled over the crowd, weighty with conviction. He couldve used a voice amplification spell, but he didnt want to. He wanted this moment to be intimate, from him to the crowd; the fallen men and their families. The names carved into these stones belong to warriorsmen who stood when others would have fallen. Men like Liam and Rylan, who faced a blood drinker, one of the deadliest creatures to walk these lands, and not only survived but wounded it before falling. A shift happened in the crowd. A woman who had stood stiffly moments ago now bowed her head, fingers curling tightly around the fabric of her dress. There was Mishan, who helped to take down three stalker hawks in the beast wave, his arrows never missing their mark. And Rhaegon, who alone cut down twelve enemies in the fief war, ensuring gates of Verdis held even as blood soaked the ground beneath him. And even one of the men from the LombardsWulfgar One by one, he spoke their names. One by one, their families straightened, their grief momentarily tempered by the pride that came with remembrance. Fathers clutched their sons'' shoulders a little tighter. Mothers wiped their tears but held their heads high. Kai exhaled slowly. I know that no compensation, no memorial, will bring them back. And I will not insult you by pretending that it will. His gaze swept over the gathered families. But I swear thisso long as I live, Veralt will remember. We will remember what we lost for this peace. A hush settled over the crowd, deep and solemn. And then, Claire stepped forward, silent as she pressed a bundle of small flowers into his hands. Kai took them without a word, turning toward the first name on the stone slabs. He knelt, placing the flowers beneath the engraving. One by one, he moved, honoring each fallen warrior as the people watched, some joining him in quiet reverence, others whispering their own prayers. It took him some time to get through all of them, but he did. And in return, he gave the grieving families the timeto mourn, to speak, to share stories that would keep the memories alive. Then, when the moment felt right, he stepped away, moving toward the carriage where Claire and Killian waited. Just before climbing in, he turned to Rhea who he had noticed in the crowd. Meet me in the evening for your lesson. She nodded, her usual sharpness softened by the aftermath of the ceremony. Kai understood, because even he felt heavy. He nodded back and climbed. Inside the carriage, the door shut with a quiet thud. The stillness wrapped around him, but the heaviness in his chest remained. His fingers tapped once against his knee before he stilled them. Claire watched him carefully. Lord Arzan, are you alright? I am, he said, his jaw tightening slightly. I just... feel bad for the families of the fallen. No matter what we do, they will always feel that absence. Killian exhaled, leaning back against the seat. You did what you could. The men knew what they were getting into. Kai didnt respond immediately, his gaze lingering on the city outside the window. Did that make it any easier? He wasnt sure. "I know that," he murmured, answering Killians words. "I know they chose this. I know the risks were clear. But that doesnt mean I cant take a moment to think about it. About the fact that now, people fight and die for a cause that I lead." A pause stretched between them. His voice was quieter when he spoke again. "I need to be strong enough for them." Neither Claire nor Killian interrupted the moment of reflection. Kai leaned back and sighed again. His mind was now moving in circles, back and forth on his memories. "When I was in the Sorcerers Tower, I wasnt someone who led others. I was strong enough for it, but I worked better alone." Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Claire shift, watching him with an intensity he had come to recognize. That look. The same one she always wore when he spoke of the era he came from. A truth he had revealed only to his most trusted subordinates weeks ago. Killian hadnt dwelled much on the personal details of Kais past, but he had been relentless in questioning him about the Enforcers of the futuretheir tactics, their weapons, the kind of beasts they had to contend with. Claire, on the other hand, had always wanted to know more. She wanted to know Kai more on a personal level. Before she could press further, Kai steered the conversation away. "Anyway, whats the latest news on the locked birds?" Claire blinked at the abrupt change but answered without hesitation. "Still insufferable, Lord Arzan. They constantly demand meetings with you. Baron Kairnso and Vensar are the worstharassing the maids assigned to them, even attempting to break out." Kais fingers twitched slightly at that. He would deal with them soon. Claire continued. "Viscount Buck and Viscount Malyr are better behaved, but theyve requested an audience with you almost every hour for the past two weeks." Kai nodded, lips curling slightly. "Good. Desperation makes men pliable. Right now, all they want is their freedomor at the very least, better conditions. That means we can squeeze them dry." Killian smirked. "It''s good that we aren''t treating them with honour. They don''t deserve it." Sar?h the Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai let out a quiet chuckle. "Honor wont refill our coffers." And that was another mess entirely. After the fief war, Kai had expected to replenish some of the resources he had poured into war preparations by digging into Lucians treasury. Yet when he examined the ledgers, the reality had been far worse than anticipated. Lucian hadnt just mismanaged the citys financeshe had barely maintained them at all. Large sums had been funneled into mercenaries, hired during the beast wave but kept idling in his territory, waiting for the inevitable conflict. What little wealth remained had already been drained by the time Kai took over. A bitter inheritance. His gaze flickered toward the carriage ceiling. Kai had gone over the numbers again and again, and the truth remained the sameif he took the rest of the money for himself, the people of Veyrin would suffer for it. He had seen how they lived. The war had drained more than just their spirit; it had hollowed out their livelihoods. Fortunately, he had nobles in his grasp. Unlike Lucian, their territories werent in complete ruin. That meant they had wealth to spareand he fully intended to squeeze it from them. Killian leaned back, arms crossed. Theyll want their freedom in exchange for whatever we ask of them. We cant let that happen. Of course not. But Ive thought of ways around that. We just have to keep them contained until we move to the capital. Claire tilted her head. So you plan to drag them along like caged animals? If necessary. Kai allowed a hint of amusement to creep into his voice. From what Ansel reported last night, the fief war is still the main gossip in the capital. King Sullivan has already sent heralds to deal with its aftermath. That was where things became more interesting. The Watchers had grown since the war, taking in a handful of Mages and expanding their influence. They had even begun incorporating druidic magic, allowing them to scout far ahead. Their presence in the capital was no longer just whispers in the darkthey had set up a base, and now Kai had a steady flow of information reaching him every week. Killian frowned. And what do you think will come of that? Kai exhaled. Francis and I already discussed it, but the outcome is obvious. The king will have no choice but to regard us as the victors. They werent the aggressors. That played in their favor. And as for the matter of the blood drinkers Kai knew how to handle that. Lucian and Idrin had been careless. They hadnt even bothered to properly hide the drinkers involvement in the village massacre. No doubt, they had assumed that once he was dead, no one reputable enough would be left to accuse them of anything. That arrogance would cost them. Kais lips curled slightly. The blood drinker''s existence will be a massive advantage. Lucian thought he could control the flow of information. But he made one mistake. Claire raised a brow. And whats that? He didnt kill me. If Im killed, Kai murmured, his voice quiet, there wont be anyone reputable enough to accuse him of anything. Killian shifted, his jaw tightening. Regina would still likely try to pin Lucians death on you, even if he took the poison himself. She wont stop at that, either. There could be other schemes and hiding the existence of the Enforcers is getting harder. A lot of information from Veralt is reaching other territories slowly after all. Kai stared ahead, his mind running over the possibilities as he nodded. If weapon enchantments and armor were enough to achieve what the Enforcers do, he said, other nobles wouldve already copied it. We could only stretch that lie for so long. Killian nodded sharply. Thats the key, he said, his voice colder now. Our main weapon against any enemies. We cant let the secret of it leak. Not to anyone. Kai leaned back in his seat, the pressure of it all weighing on him, but he remained composed. I know, he replied. Were already distributing mana cannons, but weve made sure they cant be used against us. The demand is rising for them... and the golems too but we wont sell them either. He paused, his lips pressing into a thin line. But with them, weve implemented failsafes. The Enforcers, though if they get their hands on them, it would be catastrophic. The room fell into a heavy silence. They all understood the gravity of the situation. Kai exhaled a long breath, shaking his head. Well cross that bridge when we get there, he muttered. For now, I need to meet with these spoiled nobles. *** When he got over to where the captives were, Baron Kairnso was the first to speak. So, you finally showed your face, he said, his tone dripping with a mixture of disdain and curiosity, as if Kais presence was both an irritation and a surprise. Lord Vensar continued where Kairnso left off, his words sharp with barely veiled accusation. I thought you would have forgotten about us once this damned war ended. The norm was to visit us, once the war was over. He gave a dismissive wave, as if the matter was as trivial as a social call. But it seems youve forgotten all the norms and standards of a noble. Kais gaze remained fixed on the two men. His silence spoke volumes as he studied their expressionsones that seemed to be oblivious to the gravity of their situation. They acted as though they were still in control, still operating under the belief that they could talk their way out of anything. But Kai could see it now; they hadnt yet grasped the reality of their predicament. He understood why, of course. By law, nobles were given certain privileges. Prisoners of noble blood couldnt be harmed. They were entitled to basic living conditions, no matter their crimes. That was why Kai had provided rooms for the nobles under his custody, rooms guarded by his men. But then there was Baron Idrin, sitting to the left of the others. Idrin had once been a proud man, but now, he looked like a shadow of his former self. His cheeks were sunken, his once-lustrous hair thinned out, leaving him a far cry from the man he had been. The pride and arrogance that had once defined him were gone, replaced by the gaunt features of a man who had been broken. And Kai hadnt treated him with the same leniency. Idrin was kept in the cells, far removed from the comfort afforded to the other nobles. There were no basic living conditions for him. His crimesthe massacre of an entire village, his collusion with Lucianmeant he had no right to the normalities of noble life. He had been brought here, not out of necessity, but because Kai wanted to see him face-to-face. Beside Idrin were two other nobles, Viscount Buck and Viscount Malyr. Neither of them spoke, but their discomfort was evident. Their eyes darted around, avoiding Kais gaze, knowing that their companions words would only dig them deeper into the hole they were already in. They wore the expression of men who understood the stakes but were too fearful to challenge the situation they found themselves in. Bucks hands were clenched at his sides, as though the very act of being present was too much for him to bear. Viscount Malyr, a bit more composed but equally uneasy, shifted in his seat, his discomfort palpable in every twitch of his shoulders. The moment Kairnso and Vensar finished speaking, Kais eyes locked with Killian, standing just beside him, ever watchful and ready for whatever might unfold. Killians gaze was steady, giving him a subtle nod. Ive not forgotten the norms, Kai said. But as you said, the war is over. And now, I have different priorities. He looked each of them over, his eyes lingering on Idrin, before continuing. And you should be worried about what those priorities mean for you. Kais gaze swept over the room, lingering on Kairnso. His lips curled into something akin to a smile, though it lacked any warmth. You should be glad Ive been too busy to deal with you all, he said. Youve had time to heal from any injuries my men might have given you. Trust me, though, you wont like this meeting. He turned next to Vensar whose scowl deepened as Kai spoke. As for forgetting the standards of nobility I believe it was you all who had forgotten them, Kai continued. You rushed into a war that wasnt yours, and you lost. Pathetically. Not befitting of a noble, is it? Vensars jaw clenched, his lips parting to retort, but Kai cut him off with a decisive wave of his hand. Moreover, you dont even have the basic decency to act like proper war prisoners. His eyes narrowed. You need to understand something. You arent in your territories right now. Here, Im in charge. And I wont be giving you that warning again. Buck shifted uneasily, his discomfort growing under the weight of Kais words. He cleared his throat, glancing between the other nobles before speaking up, his voice tight. I understand. We will cooperate. Kairnsos defiance flared. No, we wont, he snapped, his voice dripping with arrogance. You might be a count, but we have rights too. And once the king hears how youre treating us, he wont be happy. Kais expression darkened, his brow furrowing as he studied Kairnso. His mind ticked through possibilities. Perhaps Kairnso thought he could escape his fate, believing the King would intervene. Or maybe, he thought that as neighbors, there would be some level of mercy. But Kai was done with the attitude. He straightened in his seat, his voice steady but final. Okay. Thats enough. I told you that was my last warning. Without another word, he made a subtle gesture towards Killian. In an instant, Killian moved, faster than Kairnso could react. The baron tried to stand, eyes wide with shock, but Killian was already there, grabbing him by the collar and slamming him back into his seat. The sharp tip of his sword gleamed in the dim light, now pressed right against Kairnsos eye. He froze, his breath catching in his throat as he realized. And Kai could see the mans body visibly tremble, his face paling as the sword tip dug just a bit deeper. His eyes darted to his fellow nobles, all of them wide-eyed, visibly shaken. Vensar, on the other hand, looked downright ashen, the color drained from his face as he watched Kairnso struggle. He had clearly underestimated the situationand now, it was too late to back out. IIm a noble! Kairnso stammered, his voice quivering as he wriggled in Killians unyielding grip. You cant do this to me! Its a sin! Let me go! IllI''ll complain to the king! Hell Kais gaze sharpened as he leaned forward, cutting off his desperate words. You can do whatever you want in the future, he said, his voice low and chilling. But right now, youre under me. Youd do better than to talk like were equals. His eyes flicked toward Killian, whose sword remained steady. We are not equals. And if you dont know, Im already accused of killing my brother. I dont think it will matter if any of you lose your heads here. Kairnso stilled for a moment, his earlier bravado faltering. The room was heavy with tension as Kais words sank in. He could feel the tension of his words pressing down on him, on all of them. Nobles not being able to take defeat and killing themselves in their prisons isnt so rare of an occurrence, Kai continued. So, you need to decide now. Do you want to act like prisoners and talk to me about what happens next? Or are you going to lose your heads? *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. PS - Book 1 gonna stub in a few days. It won''t affect you all current readers, but I hope you all can support the Amazon launch. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. Stub Announcement MAGUS REBORN VOL: 1 IS BEING UNPUBLISHED FROM RR! Hello! Thank you so much for all the support since Volume 1. It truly means a lot. We''re incredibly grateful to now see the book on Amazonwhich also means it will be removed from Royal Road. Sar?h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Volume 1 chapters will be taken down starting TODAY! If you haven''t been following the journey so far, this is your final call to catch those early chapters before they disappear into the void. ???? Pre-orders are live now on Amazon Kindle Unlimited: https://www.royalroad.com/amazon/B0DKYVN266 If youve got Kindle Unlimited, the book will be available on April 22nd, 2025! Please download it if you have Kindle unlimited subscription, it helps a ton. And even if youre not buying, just leaving a rating would mean the world and really helps boost visibility! Ratings are free to do so. Thank you once again. 192. Assembly Like Kai thought, a little show of power was enough for Kairnso and Vensar to fall in line. They still seemed displeased, their pride wounded, but it was clear to them nowtheir lives were in Kai''s hands, and there was nothing they could do but hope whatever fate he had planned would be merciful. It was almost satisfying to watch the prideful lords fall into an awkward silence. With a slow breath, Kai straightened in his chair, the wooden chair creaked under his weight. He could feel their eyes on him, waiting, uncertain, but too afraid to speak out of turn. I have a lot of other work to do, so Im not going to mince my words. He began. The truth of the matter is, for whatever reasonloyalty, greed, expectationsyou all chose to support my late brother in the war against me. And in the end, you lost. Kai looked at each noble. At the mention of defeat, he could see how their eyes faltered for a brief moment, and the bitterness of being on the wrong side of history reeked through them. But that would be their reality now. No one spoke a single word. I can understand wanting to prove yourself to a Duke, especially ones whove ruled these lands for centuries, he said, knowing that his words came out as mocking. But the truth of the matter is, you all lost. And now, youre here as my prisoners. Vensar shifted uncomfortably in his seat and Buck looked at Kai with a combination of suspicion and resignation. But no one dared to speak, not with the tension thick in the room. Noble conduct tells me that although I cant just ask for your entire territories, like I did with my brothersince you were only supporting himI can still ask for reparations from you all. Viscount Buck, who had been silent until now, furrowed his brows. And what do you want in exchange for our freedom, Count Arzan? Kai saw how the man knitted his fingers together in nervousness He smiled. A hundred thousand gold coins, he said as if it''s the simplest thing he could ask for. But he wasnt done. Twenty-five percent of your territorys taxes, in the form of both gold and grain, for the next five years. And I wont ask you to swear fealty to me. However, you will sign a non-aggression pact, one that lasts for the next century. Kairnso was the first to react. That is asking too much. Just giving a hundred thousand gold coins alone would drain our coffers. And a portion of our taxes for five years Thats going to ruin our territories. Even Buck, whod been much more cordial compared to others, shifted uncomfortably in his seat. His eyes darted to the other nobles, and for a moment, they were all silent, contemplating the consequences. But before anyone could speak, Malyr, whod remained quiet until now, cleared his throat. Count Arzan, I know were at your mercy here, but thats too much. You cant possibly think well survive such demands. My territories... my treasury... they wont hold out. Even if we are at fault, think of all the peasants. Kai tilted his head and narrowed his eyes. If you think Im going to change my mind, then you are wrong. My demands will stay the same. Do you think I dont know that, if Id lost, you would get a piece of my territory? If I had lost, the treasures I possess would be yours? Hell, Lucian might have promised you even more he waited, seeing their response. When he saw the slightest tremor in their eyes, he continued. Ive even found letters in his studyletters that say he planned to give you the contract to make and sell my mana cannons once the war was won, Kairnso. He also promised to give Verdis to Idrin here and I''m pretty sure you all got similar promises. At that, Kairnso visibly shuddered, his eyes widening in shock as the truth of the situation settled on him. Kai continued. If you were going to be richer with a win, youll have to struggle for the next five years to make up for it, he said. My mind is made up, and its not changing. The deal is set. Suddenly, everything seemed tense as the silence spread. Kai could feel the uncertainty vibrating in the air as the nobles processed the reality of the situation. Their heads dropped, and their faces were a mixture of frustration and dread, no doubt considering how this would affect their territories, how they would manage their diminishing resources. Kai could already imagine them calculating the tax hikes they would impose to meet the demands, wondering what sacrifices they would have to make just to survive this. In that silence, he allowed himself a brief moment of satisfaction. He could feel their powerlessness in the air, their resistance fading as they accepted the terms. They had no choice but to agree, even if they hated it. Their defeat was complete, and there was nothing left for them but submission. He could almost feel the pressure of the nobles'' strained thoughts, their minds racing with how they would meet the terms he had set. This was exactly what he wanted. He knew that with the growing trade in the region, more people would be neededmore workers, more guards, more strength for the city. And now, with his victory solidifying control over the Sylvan enclave, he had the perfect opportunity to pull in the displaced, the discontented, the ones pushed to the edges by their own leaders failure. He had already gotten Francis to lay the groundwork for his new forcestesting both for magical potential and physical strength. If his calculations were right, hed have an army twice the size it was now, enough to make any future conflicts more manageable. The nobles, all now subdued, would only hasten the influx of the population he needed. If they raised taxes or worsened conditions for their people, Kai knew they''d have no choice but to migrate to the cities he controlled. Hed be waiting with open arms, ready to integrate them into his ranks. His musings were broken when Viscount Buck spoke, in a resigned tone. I accept the offer. Malyr, who had been quiet until now, nodded. I dont think prisoners can negotiate. He was reluctant, but Kai could sense that he valued his life more than money. Kairnso, Idrin and Vensar followed suit, their earlier resistance melting away into reluctant compliance. Kai pushed the documents forward, the inked promises of reparations and agreements laid bare for them to see. He made no effort to hide the finality in his movements. "This is only a first step," he said. "King Sullivan''s mark is needed to make this official. But for now, I need you all to agree. After that, we will proceed." The nobles, still processing, began to sign in agreement, but as they did, Bucks voice broke through. So, after this, we can return to our territories, right? Kai looked over to him, the question a sharp note in the otherwise still room. It was almost as if he spoke everyone elses minds. His lips twitched into a small, knowing smile. Actually, no, you can''t go back just yet. The sound of pens freezing mid-air echoed through the room. Idrin, who was already in the process of signing, let out a grunt. His eyes snapped up to Kai, confusion flickering in them. Kairnso, too, stared right at him, his fingers trembling slightly around the pen. What? Idrin''s voice came right after. Why? "Well, even though the fief war has ended, the king hasn''t announced his verdict yet. And I need to wait for that to legitimize my win before letting you all go, Kai said. When he added his next words, the silence in the room deepened. "Letting you all go right now wouldn''t be good. We''re all moving to the capital, and you''d be giving a good account of what transpired in the fief war, especially you, Baron Idrin." Idrin''s face drained of color instantly, his eyes flicking nervously between Kai and the others. The weight of the situation hit him hard, and he likely realized that if the truth about his involvement came out in front of King Sullivan, his days were numbered. That was exactly why Kai had no intention of letting any of them goespecially not Idrin. He needed them to remain under his control until the capital had its say. More importantly, releasing them now could easily turn them into targets for Reginas assassination attempts. She would certainly won''t like the truth of the fief war coming out in the open. Kais thoughts lingered on this threat, knowing that keeping them here under his watch was the only way to ensure they wouldn''t be cut down before they could testify. Viscount Vensar then spoke up, breaking the silence. But we dont know how long its going to take. Are we just going to let our territories fall to chaos? My second-in-command was killed in the battle already, and my territory is probably in a mess." Kai studied him for a moment, considering his words. He understood the pressure of leadership, the responsibility that weighed on these mens shoulders. But the situation wasnt simple. Still, he had a solution prepared. "I already have an idea for it," Kai said. I will allow you to send letters to your heirs or anyone you trust enough to handle your territories. Theyll be able to take charge as your regents," he continued, meeting each of their gazes. "You wont have to worry about your territories, and I''ll even allow you to send letters to them, keeping track of how theyre handling things. But beyond that, I cant do anything. Youll have to rely on them to manage the situation in your absence. Viscount Buck was the first to nod eagerly. I dont mind that. My son needed some experience anyway." His relief was palpableat least there was something he could do to keep an eye on his territory, even if it was through his heir. Malyr also nodded. That seems fine by me. But I would ask for a better arrangement for us living here. Then, Vensar spoke up, his voice a little less sure than before, "My sons are in the capital. I need to think about who to regent." Kai nodded, not offering advice on the matter. That was his problem, not his. Kairnso, on the other hand, seemed less eager to let go of control. "I don''t have any heirs, my brother is useless and I don''t trust anyone," he grumbled, his voice laced with contempt. Kai looked at him. "Youll need someone. Or you could let a commoner govern it." His words were dry, almost dismissive. He scowled, clearly offended. "As if Id let a commoner handle things." His pride was evident in the way he spoke, a true haughty noble to the core. Kai almost let out a chuckle, but he held it back, biting his tongue. He could only imagine the look on his face if he knew that commoners had been running his city while hed been absent. Worse yet, his own household had been ransackedhis power was slipping away, and he was too ignorant to see it. The irony was thick in the air. His gaze shifted to Baron Idrin, who was reading through the parchment again. Out of all of them, Idrin would be the one who wasnt just walking away from this with a simple loss. His dealings with Lucian were enough to have him executed in any other court. Yet, here he was, meekly signing the documents in front of him, his posture small, his face drawn. Idrin knew exactly what he had done, knew the blood on his handsthe blood of an entire village, innocent men, women, and children who had been slaughtered for political gain. The drinkers, who had been part of that massacre, were already dead. Soon enough, it would be Idrins turn. If not for the need to have Idrin testify in front of the king, Kai would have had the man executed already. But for now, he would remain a prisoner, waiting for the king''s judgment. Kai didnt feel an ounce of sympathy for him. As the nobles finished signing, he stepped forward, taking the documents from them. "Everything looks in order," he said and confirmed them. They had agreed, for now. But the real challenges were still to come. "How long do you think we would have to stay in your estate?" Viscount Buck questioned, bringing everyones gaze to him. Kais fingers unconsciously stacked the papers and looked at him, directly into his eyes. "I honestly don''t know," he said with a shrug. "The royal stuff always takes time, and it depends on what the majesty has decided for the aftermath of the fief war. Royal heralds are already on the way, and well know soon enough." As soon as he finished speaking, there was a knock on the door, cutting through the quiet tension in the room. Kai turned his head, watching as the door opened slightly. A maid stood there. "Lord Arzan," she said, bowing her head. "Theres a herald from the capital waiting for you." Kai glanced at the nobles, his lips curving into a brief smile. "Looks like youll know the answer to your question soon," he said, before standing up and making his way toward the door. With Killian by his side, they exited the room, and as they stepped into the corridor, Kai turned to the guard who stood by the door. "Get Idrin back to the cell," he instructed. "Make sure the nobles get what they want, as long as theyre well-behaved." The guard nodded, acknowledging the command with a crisp nod before moving to carry out the order. Then, Kai and Killian moved down the long corridors, the stone walls echoing their footsteps as they passed through the estate. Soon, a maid appeared ahead of them, leading them toward the room where the herald awaited. As they entered, Kais eyes immediately fell on the woman seated inside. She was nothing like the herald he had dealt with previously. This one was youngperhaps too young for the position. She had brown hair, framing a face that looked almost too innocent for someone in her line of work. Her black eyes, though sharp, carried an air of quiet uncertainty, and her features were so smooth that Kai found himself wondering if she was still new to the job. Her baby face made her appear younger than she likely was, and it made him question just how much experience she had in dealing with nobles and their affairs. When she saw him enter, she immediately rose from her seat, her movements quick and respectful, but there was a nervousness in the way she held herself. She bowed low, her voice carrying a touch of formality, but there was an edge of inexperience there as well. "Count Arzan," she greeted. Kai took a seat at the large table gesturing for the herald to do the same. Killian remained standing in the back. I believe the king has sent you here to tell me what the kingdom has decided to do with the fief war, Kai said, getting to the core of the topic in an instant. She nodded, her nerves apparent despite the formal setting. "Yes, my name is Isolde, and Ive been traveling non-stop for the past two weeks to deliver this." She handed him the parchment, her hands trembling slightly as she did so. Kai raised an eyebrow at the long, unbroken sheet of text. Whats in it? Im pretty sure you know, he said, not hiding the curiosity in his tone. Isolde flushed slightly, her eyes darting down. I havent read it, she admitted, almost bashfully. I was told only to deliver it. Kai nodded, not particularly surprised, before pulling the parchment open. As he scanned the document, his brow furrowed. Long, convoluted lines of text filled the paper, but Kais eyes moved quickly over them, picking out key details. He was expecting some confirmation of his victory, a grant of Lucians territory, but instead, he found something that made his heart skip a beat. An . It was scheduled to happen three months from now. The details were vague, but one thing was clear: this wasnt just some administrative formality. All the nobles were to be invited, and their fateshis fatewould be decided there. His mind whirred. He had never heard of such an assembly, and nothing in his books on the kingdom had mentioned anything quite like it. From what he could gather, it seemed as if it was a gathering meant to sort out disputes on a larger scale, perhaps involving much more than just his little corner of the fief war. His initial assumption was wrong. It wasnt just a hearing where he could present Idrins misdeeds and gain Lucian''s territory in a simple ceremony. His eyes widened slightly as he kept reading. The implications were immense. This wasnt just about victorythis would change things for everyone involved. Before Kai could dwell further on the meaning of the Assembly of Judgment, Isoldes voice broke through his thoughts. Count Arzan," she called. "Theres one more thing that was told to be given to you. Kai lifted his gaze to her, intrigued. What is it? Isolde reached into her bag and withdrew a sealed envelope, handing it over to him. King Sullivan personally wrote a letter for you and sent it with me. Kai blinked, his surprise evident. The king? Personally? He hadnt talked a lot with him during their meeting and while the king had granted him the county seat by being impressed by his defense of his territory, a personal letter was something he hadnt expected. With a quiet nod, he accepted the envelope, his fingers brushing the wax seal as he held it. There was something about it, the seal, the kings personal touchthat made it seem far more important than any of the other correspondence he had received. He leaned back, his mind racing with questions, but he didnt allow his curiosity to overpower his composure. Slowly, he broke the seal, pulling out the letter. His eyes scanned the writing, and as he read, his expression shifted. His brow furrowed, and his lips parted in surprise as he took in the contents. Sear?h the ovlFire .net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Thank you for the kind words in stub announcement. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 193. Targeting the youth Kai talked to Isolde for a while longer, but apparently, she had other places to be and soon left after ensuring that he had received the royal message and getting Kais seal over a document. Once he was alone, he moved to his office on the upper floors, leaving Killian to fetch one of Francis'' apprentices who was well-versed in kingdom law. As Kai sat waiting in his office, he flipped open the letternot the one regarding the Assembly of Judgmentbut the one personally sent by King Sullivan. The letter was short and to the point, a brief note with a request from the king. It stated that he wanted a meeting with Kai once he arrived in the capital and insisted that he bring Valkyrie''s gift with him. It also mentioned that Kai should contact the king privately when he arrived in the capital and, in no uncertain terms, warned him to be sharp. There were plenty of opportunities for an attack, and the king made it clear that the situation was far from safe. Though it was short, the letter left Kai with far more questions than answers. Why did the king want to meet him? Why bring up the medallion now, after all this time? The mention of an attack didnt sit well with himhe suspected it was likely Regina who was planning something, but the question lingered, was the king truly opposed to her, or was there more at play here? Did King Sullivan know of her involvement in darker dealings? The letter only deepened the web of confusion in Kai''s mind, and the more he thought about it, the more complicated everything seemed. But one thing was clear, the medallion was becoming more and more crucial for him. Kai would have liked it if the letter had at least mentioned where to find the medallion, but he guessed that King Sullivan himself wouldnt have the faintest clue on its location. Only his mother, Arzan''s mother, would know. But finding it would require him to dive deeper into the soul fragment. Up until now, Kai had focused on increasing his power, hoping that the fragment of Arzans mother would give him a clue as to where the inheritanceand the medallionwas hidden. But with the stakes rising, he might have no choice but to enter his astral realm, where the silhouette was likely residing. However, that was a whole new level of complication, one that could be risky and difficult to navigate. His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Killian entered, followed by Francis'' apprentice, Mina, who was holding two books in her hands. Kai glanced up. "Did you find what you were looking for?" "We did," Killian replied, stepping aside as Mina approached the desk. "According to Mina, the books detail the Assembly, but it''s an old customone that hasn''t been used in a long time." Kai''s brow furrowed, intrigued. He turned his attention to the young apprentice, who placed the books on the table and opened one of them. She flipped through the pages, finally stopping at a particular illustration. There, etched on the page, was a drawing of a grand parliamentary structure, with people standing on platforms, addressing the assembly. Mina spoke as she pointed to the illustration. "It''s mostly used for matters that the king alone cannot judge." Kai studied the drawing and read the information written down about it, his mind racing. An assembly of that scale, with nobles on platforms and the king unable to make a judgment alonethis was more serious than he had first thought. The implications were much deeper, and it only raised more questions. As he examined the page, Mina continued. "So, its like war crimes or extremely complicated criminal cases," she said, looking at the illustration and his face. "It was used once during a fief war, when a group of nobles waged war against each other, and only one survived. The surviving nobles family got the territory as per the rules of the fief war. But the survivor was punished for war crimesburning entire towns, massacring over a thousand peopleand he was executed." Killian''s gaze sharpened, and he glanced at her. "Who decides this punishment?" Mina responded without hesitation. "Votes. Its called the Assembly of Judgment for a reason. Every noble is required to be there and cast a vote after everythingthe witnesses, testimonies, all the detailsare presented. The vote decides what should happen." Kai''s frown deepened. a decision made by the collective. Nobles never remained neutral in such matters, and their votes were swayed by their alliances, rivalries, and politics. If this assembly was going to be like that, his chances of staying on top hinged on something crucialhis reputation. He turned toward Killian, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "If this is truly how its going to be, then the most important thing for us is to build my reputationnot among the commoners. With my feats, I know Ive built a reputation among them. Malden has even told me about it in our last meeting, how hes been spreading good rumors about me and countering any bad ones." He let out a quiet sigh, thinking of how much of a web of influence he''d need to weave. "No, we need to make sure the nobles see me as someone they cant afford to dismiss. My reputation among them... thats whatll matter here." How are we going to do that? Killian asked, lines forming on his forehead. That''s what we need to figure out. Kai leaned back in his chair, and started stroking his growing stubble unconsciously. His mind churned with the complexities of the situation: his reputation among the nobles was fragile at best. He had made some connections, but nothing substantial enough to rely on in such a pivotal moment. Most of the nobles were already divided into factions, each with their own agendas. The first prince was unlikely to offer any help. He had already shown his dislike for Kai, and even if he managed to win support from nobles from his faction, Regina will make sure they turn his back to him at the final moment. The other two factions were no betterthey wouldnt even consider supporting him unless he pledged allegiance to their causes first. The political game had a price. A part of him wanted to give up on the entire kingdom, to cast aside his ambitions and stop caring about the petty politics that governed it. But he quickly dismissed the thought. He wasnt strong enough yet to walk away. Not with an established kingdom standing in his way. The reality was clear: without strength, allies, and more power, he would never stand a chance in this game. He needed to keep pushing forward. And, after some deliberation, he realized there was only one person he could truly rely on nowDuke Blackwood. If the duke had any sense of loyalty after the results of the fief war, he would be the one to stand with him. But that wasnt a guarantee. It seemed like it was time to reach out and make sure the duke had made up his mind. Writing him a letter would be the next step. As he mulled over these thoughts, Killians voice broke his concentration. "What are we going to do now, Lord Arzan? Youll need considerable support to prevail in the assembly. Even with all the proof we have, maybe a few neutral nobles might take your side, but with the state of the kingdom right now, most will just follow what their factions tell them. None of them have any reason to support you yet." He nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah, the king really shoved me into a bad situation," he muttered, as if confirming the reality of his predicament. But as he sat there, lost in his thoughts, he started piecing together a new plan. One of the major advantages he had was the time. Three months before the assembly began. It was likely due to the need to gather all the nobles to the capital. He guessed that it was also the reason why the herald had looked to be in such a hurry, having to deliver summons to more noble houses. Either way, time was on his side. The question was, what could he do with it? What could he do to ensure he emerged unscathed? Relying on Duke Blackwood for support was important, but he knew he couldnt put all his eggs in one basket. He had to act on his own, too. His reputation among the nobles wasnt solid enough to rely on yet, and he had no allies strong enough to guarantee his safety. But maybe, just maybe, the assembly itself could be the key. Not as an obstacle to overcome, but as an opportunity. As his thoughts reached there, he plan parts of a plan coming to him. "I believe this is the best thing that could have happened to us," he said. Killians eyebrows shot up in surprise. "What do you mean, Lord Arzan?" The young apprentice, Mina, glanced between them, her confusion mirrored on her face. "I dont understand... What is your lordship thinking?" Kai smiled, confidence slowly returning to him. "We had to make contacts with the other noble houses anyway, if we wanted our future plans to come true. And the assemblyit will be the perfect excuse to get close to them. It''s a formal event, a time for everyone to gather and discuss matters. There''s no better opportunity to make a lasting impression. If we play this right, we can start forming alliances, solidifying our position, and maybe even turning a few of the other nobles into potential allies." Kai fell into contemplation, his mind working through the possibilities. The pieces were falling into place, slowly but surely. He glanced at Killian and Mina, both of them waiting for his next words. "We have a lot of time," Kai continued. "And if we can slowly break away some noble houses from the three factions, we might just put ourselves in a safe position. In the assembly, every nobles vote is counted the same. Your standing doesnt increase your influence there, not like how some would expect. Right, Mina?" Mina nodded. "Yes, Lord Arzan. Each noble gets only one vote, regardless of their rank." Kais lips curled into a small, thoughtful smile. "Exactly. So, the key is to target those nobles who are in the factions, but who dont truly belong there. The ones who might be stuck, either by obligation or by fear of moving against their faction." Killian raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "How are we going to do that?" Kai smirked. "Thats the question, isnt it? What? Well, when you want to target a section of society, you should always target the youth. Theyre weak, gullible, and they want opportunitybut they seldom get it. Theyre ripe for the picking." "Youth?" Mina''s eyes lit up as she understood. "Youre talking about Barons and Viscounts, Lord Arzan, right? The younger generation, the ones just starting out, eager for a chance to prove themselves." sea??h th N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Kai nodded. "Yes. Even though many of them are part of the factions, they didnt always choose to be. A lot of them simply joined because the Count or Marquis they serve under went into a faction, and they had no choice but to follow. We can use that. Im sure there are many who are reluctant to be tied to a faction, but theyve got no power to change their circumstances. Theyre desperate for a chance." Minas eyes twinkled with understanding. "And the ones who arent getting the opportunity they need." "Not only that. Theres more. The kingdom isnt in the best shape right now, especially when it comes to food. The harvest this year was poor, and from what weve gathered from the south, the rains have eluded them. Theyve had to rely on Mages to keep the crops from failing completely." Killian frowned, looking uneasy. "Thats not good." "No. And on top of that, weve lost a major trade partner. Vanderfalls been decimated by a plague. The Watchers reported it, though they havent gotten close enough to confirm the exact nature of the outbreak. But the result is clearthe plague has crippled Vanderfall. The royal family and most of the nobility are holed up in one city at the edge of the kingdom, leaving their lands and trade routes in ruins. And Lancephils trade relations have been severely damaged as a result. Weve effectively lost a critical partner." Kai''s mind raced with the potential that lay before him. The trade ties with Vanderfall were a gaping hole in the kingdom''s economy, and with the loss of such an important partner, many nobles would feel the strain. He knew how to exploit that weakness. The discontent among the ranks of the nobility was palpable, and this assembly might just be the perfect opportunity to capitalize on it. After weighing everything, Kai sat back in his chair, a decisive glint in his eyes. "The assembly... it might become the very thing that helps us create the faction weve been talking about. It''s the opportunity we''ve been waiting for, and we have three months to work with. Three months to gather what we need, get the right support, and build a force strong enough to make a difference." Killian nodded thoughtfully. "So, how do we proceed, Lord Arzan?" "First, we need Duke Blackwood. Hes the key to this. We need him to spearhead our negotiations and bring his influence to the table. His support will solidify our position and help convince other nobles that we are a force to be reckoned with. Hes pragmatic, and with the right push, hell see the benefit of aligning with us." "Understood. I''ll make sure to contact him immediately." Kai continued. "Next, Ansel. I want you to tell him to gather information on every Baron and Viscount in the kingdom. Their alliances, their weaknesses, any piece of dirt we can use. We need to know everything about them, what motivates them, and what we can use to sway them to our side. When we go to the capital, were not going alone. We need a large force of our own." Killian gave a firm, final nod. *** After learning about the Assembly of Judgment, Kai took a full day to gather everyone important enough for his plan. He explained what each of them needed to do and assigned tasks, ensuring every detail was covered. Once everything was set into motion, he sent a trusted messenger to inform Francis of the situation and ask for any advice or insight he might have and got to move with Talon, one of the Enforcers he seldom had any talks with. They set off on a journey through his newly acquired territory, heading towards a spot on a small hill nestled between the border of his lands and the former Lucian territory. The area was an untamed stretch of land, dotted with various types of trees, and the scent of the wild hung in the air. He knew that wild beasts often roamed around here, distant howls were proof of that. It was a place that had once been home to a thriving village before the attacks from a dangerous nest of creatures had forced the inhabitants to relocate. The leader of these beasts was a Grade 3 beast, a terror that had been too much for the villagers to handle. Now, however, Kai had seen potential in this spot, and he had a plan to make it useful once again. he had thought. The tribe had proven invaluable during the fief war, with their strength and tenacity helping turn the tide of battle. Afterward, Kai had offered them a settlement within his territory, granting them a prime piece of land to rebuild their village. One that was both arable and had nearby beasts for them to hunt. As he and Talon ascended the hill towards the site, the loud noise of construction greeted them. The barbarians had wasted no time in getting to work. Wooden walls were rising up, and even from a distance, Kai could see a watchtower under construction. The industriousness of the people was evident, and it made Kai feel a sense of pride in his decision to offer them a new home. As they neared the walls, one of the Lombards standing guard up top must have spotted them. There was a brief movement, a rustle in the watchtower, and Kai knew that there would be someone to greet him when they reached the gate. As they traveled, Talon, who had been right beside him, finally turned to him. "Lord Arzan," he asked, "why are we visiting the Lombards? Is there a particular reason you''re making the trip out here personally?" "Yes, there''s a reason," he replied, his tone leaving little room for further questions. "And it''s really important." "Can I ask what that reason is, Lord Arzan?" Talon persisted. "Basically," he began, "since the Lombards are now with us, Ive been meaning to talk to them about their tribe''s techniques. Theyre a martial tribe and have developed a lot of unique techniques over the years. In fact, even the kingdom has shown interest in them for their own knights and soldiers." He paused. "But now that many of them have become Enforcers, I thought it would be worth discussing whether they could evolve their techniques into proper Enforcer martial arts." *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Thank you for the kind words in stub announcement. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 194. Berserkers Kai moved through the new lands of the Lombards, taking in the sight of the growing settlement. He had to admit, everything felt planned out. When hed told Francis to lend a hand in designing the territory, he hadnt expected the Lombards to follow the guidance so well. Afterall, they had no reason to follow the structure that nobles provided, but surprisingly, they had. Of course, they were integrating their own architectural style into the designs, but that was a good thing. It gave the place character, made it distinct. And if the settlement expanded enough in the coming years, maybejust maybeit could become a tourist destination. That idea wouldnt take shape for at least a decade, but it was an interesting possibility. As he walked, Brugnar, the barbarian escorting him, finally spoke. The man was second-in-command to the chieftain and the warrior who had accompanied Ragnar to assist in the beast wave. I apologize, Lord Arzan Brugnar said. The chieftain didnt come to personally greet you at the gate. We werent aware of your arrival today, and hes been occupied with something important. Kai gave a slight nod. Its no big deal. I had some time and figured Id stop by to discuss a few things with him. He paused, glancing toward Brugnar. What exactly is he observing? Brugnar let out a low chuckle. Ragnar is taking on a group in the new sparring grounds. His expression shifted, as if he was weighing his words. Its not finalized yet, but soon, Ragnar is expected to be named the heir officially. Before that happens, the chieftain wants him to learn to control his anger. Kai raised an eyebrow. Not at the part of Ragnar becoming the heir. That was something set in stone already, but he didn''t knew that the man had trouble controlling his anger. He had always been an aggressive warrior, but other than their initial meeting, he had only seen him be more in control. I didnt know Ragnar had anger problems. Other than our first meeting, hes always been amiable. Brugnar shook his head. He doesnt. But things have changed since Wulfgars death. His emotions arent in check, and hes not even able to sleep properly. Its affecting him, and could possibly affect him if he were to be put into a position of power. We Lombards have to be very careful about everything, if you know what I mean. And the chieftain made it clear that we cant have him as heir if hes like this. So the way to fix it is to fight? Kai asked, glancing at Brugnar. Its not to Brugnar exhaled through his nose. He has a lot of anger in him right now. And this is a good way for him to release it all. As they walked, the sounds of shouting and cheers grew louder. Kais gaze finally landed on the sparring groundsa large clearing where a crowd had gathered in a wide circle. Brugnar led Kai and Talon through the throng, parting the gathered warriors with ease until they reached the front. Standing there, watching the fight with sharp, small eyes, was the chieftain, Yafgar. Yafgar turned at their approach, his gaze landing on Kai. For a moment, he was still, then he inclined his head slightlyjust enough to acknowledge Kais authority without seeming fully subservient. Lord Arzan, Yafgar said. I did not expect you today. Kai gave a small nod. I wanted to see how you were assimilating here and discuss something with you. Yafgar gestured to the growing settlement. As you can see, we are adapting well. But tell me, what is it that you wish to discuss? Kai glanced toward the center of the clearing. Well talk after the fight. His attention shifted to the battle taking place. In the middle of the clearing, Ragnar was locked in combat with three men at once, his movements precise yet brutal. Two others lay on the edge of the clearing, injured, indicating that the match had originally started as five against one. Kai observed closely. This wasnt just a spar. It was a test. But it hardly seemed fair. Why are there so many against one man? Are they all Enforcers? Yafgar nodded towards two of the opponents of Ragnar. Those two are. The rest didnt make the cut. His eyes were unreadable. To be the next chieftain of the Lombards, Ragnar must be stronger than anyone else. Being blessed has given him power beyond what he would have originally possessed, but the world is changingI can feel it. That power alone wont be enough. He will need more. If he cannot stand against five of his own tribe, then he cannot rule above them. Kai nodded, understanding the logic behind it. The Lombards were a strength-based tribe, wild and untamed, with a culture built on survival and dominance. It made sense that only the strongest could lead. Still, he believed ruling took more than just brute force. Yet, in a world where creatures could forge weapons from their own blood and Mages wielded devastating affinities, having overwhelming strength was a necessity. His thoughts drifted back to the fight just in time to see a large man charging straight at Ragnar. He was one of the two Enforcers still standing and hefted a large battle axe. Ragnar met the strike head-on, their weapons clashing in a thunderous impact. Before he could recover, the other Enforcer lunged at him, a spear thrusting forward. Ragnar barely managed to twist out of the way, but that left him open. An arrow sliced through the air. Fast and well-aimed. Ragnar tried to shift, but it grazed his shoulder, drawing a sharp cry from him. He clenched his teeth, eyes flashing with pain and frustration. Fuck! Ragnar clenched his fist and his other hand curled around his mace. Kai analyzed the situation quickly. The logical move would be to take out the archer firstremove the long-range threatbefore dealing with the melee fighters. But before Ragnar could move, the axe-wielding warrior let out a sharp, loud laugh. Sarch* The N?velFire(.)net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Youre slow, boy! What kind of man takes a hit like that? Youre not made for it. Chieftain Yafgar would think twice before letting you lead after seeing such a weak display of strength. No wonder you can''t protect your men. Ragnars body tensed at the jab. His grip on his weapon tightened. Instead of charging at the archer, he reached into his belt and, with a quick flick of his wrist, sent two knives flying towards him. The archer barely had time to react. Ragnars breath came in ragged gasps, his fury burning hot as he locked eyes with the archer. One of the blade hed thrown cut deep into the mans leg, sending him stumbling backbut not down. The archers grimace only sharpened his focus, and he sent another arrow in quick succession, one that narrowly missed Ragnars side. The pain in his leg barely slowed the archers rhythm. But Ragnars eyes were already darting to the larger threatthe axe-wielding warrior charging toward him. Rage seemed to bubble up inside him, and he surged forward with a newfound aggression, his mace crackling with intent to finish this. The axe came down with a crash, its sheer weight aimed to split Ragnar in two. But Ragnar was quicktoo quick. He pivoted and parried the blow, feeling the shudder of metal on metal, and without losing momentum, swung his mace low, aiming for the spear-wielding man who was right there, looking to attack him. But Ragnars speed was unmatched. The spears haft cracked as his mace cleaved it in two, the sharp tip falling to the ground with a dull thud. The spear-bearer staggered backward, eyes wide in realization. He moved back, retreating to the edge of the clearing, out of the fight for good. But Ragnars eyes had no time for mercy. He turned to the axe-wielder, who was already swinging his weapon again at him. He dodged the axes edge by backtracking, and just then, his eyes flickered downward in a brief moment of distraction. He groaned loudly. The arrow struck right before his leg, a sharp, violent thunk. His muscles tensed, his eyes narrowing in painbut only for a split second. That second was enough. The axe-wielder took his chance, crashing forward and hitting Ragnar squarely in the chest with the flat side of his axe. Ragnars eyes widened as he was flung back, crashing into the dirt with bone-jarring force. He gritted his teeth, struggling to rise, but his legs betrayed him. Arrows pierced deep into his flesh, one after another, pinning him to the ground. His fingers twitched, but he couldnt push himself up. The pain was clearly unbearable, but his pride made him fight it. I can still fight! Ragnar roared, but his voice cracked with desperation. He looked to the archer, still nocking another arrow, ready to finish him off. But Yafgar''s voice cut it off. The duel is over. Ragnar froze, his chest heaving with each agonized breath. His gaze snapped to his father, disbelief flashing across his face. He clearly didn''t want it to be over, not by a long shot. Kai knew it by how the man was ready to fight again, and again if necessaryhis eyes said it all. You lost. The chieftains voice was firm, unwavering. In a real fight, youd be dead by now. Ragnars eyes blazed with a fight and he tried to stand up, but his body refused to cooperate. He had lost. His fury slowly drained away, and his shoulders slumped. The archer lowered his bow, and the axe-wielder stood silently. Yafgar nodded at them as he turned away from his son and motioned with his hand, signaling the end of the spar. As the gathered Lombards began to disperse, their movements were respectful, each bowing their head toward the chieftain in acknowledgment before retreating to their own corners. Even the two remaining fighters, their muscles taut with the thrill of combat, gave a quick bow to the chieftain and Kai before heading off. The murmurs of the crowd slowly died down, and a few of them glanced at Kai with curiosity in their eyes, finally noticing him, some bowing his way before they turned back. The clearing, now quieter, allowed Kai to move closer to Ragnar, who had been slumped on the ground, his body weighed down by both injury and the humiliation of his defeat. Ragnars gaze didnt lift immediately, but when he finally noticed Kai approaching, the harsh, ragged breath he had been taking seemed to pause in his throat. Before he could utter a single word, his fathers voice, sharp and full of disappointment, cut through the air. "Youve lost yourself in your anger," the chieftain said. "There were so many moments in that duel where you would have been dead. Youve lost your way, my son." His words hung in the air, a solemn reminder of all that Ragnar had once shown promise of becoming. "After seeing a flicker of maturity and brightness in you after all those reckless years, I had hoped But now, youve started to disappoint me again. Like before!" Ragnars head lowered immediately as if the weight of his fathers words had struck him harder than any blow he had taken in the fight. The silence between them stretched on, thick and oppressive. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of silence, Ragnar spoke, his voice barely a whisper. "Sorry, father... anger got me. I wasnt able to follow your principles." Yafgar huffed, his breath escaping in a frustrated exhale. He didnt respond immediately but instead crouched down, inspecting the arrows lodged in Ragnars legs, the sight of the blood seeping from the wounds sending a faint grimace across his face. "We need to get you healed," he muttered, almost to himself. "Im pretty sure Helga will have some of the herbs we need for this." Kai, still standing at the side, reached into his cloak and pulled out a small phial of potion, the liquid inside a bright shade of green. He stepped forward, offering it to chieftain with a firm gesture. "Remove the arrows," Kai said calmly. "Make sure nothing stays inside. Then drink this. Itll heal you." The chieftain looked at the potion for a long moment, his brow furrowing. But he nodded, silently taking the vial. He began to remove the arrowheads from Ragnars legs who groaned with each pull. "Youre stubborn, boy," Yafgar muttered, his voice more exasperated than angry. "The pain youre feeling now wouldnt have been there if you had controlled your anger. Instead of rushing forward, instead of fighting with a blind fury you let it consume you." Ragnars face twisted in pain, but his eyes glinted with something moreunderstanding, perhaps, or something close to itas he finally took the potion, drinking it down quickly. A small sigh of relief escaped him. He lowered the phial, his voice thick with something deeper than just anger. How could I? he asked quietly. Kai noticed how he avoided Yafgars eyes for the briefest moment, looking far away. How could I control it when I feel so angry all the time? Not at others... but at myself. I can process it, but it just leaves me haphazard, like a storm I cant stop. Its Its bubbling inside me, father. I lose it all in a matter of seconds. The chieftain, still crouched beside him, exhaled deeply, his weathered eyes softening. He placed a steady hand on Ragnars shoulder, his voice low and steady, like a grounding force. It wasnt your fault Wulfgar died. In war, people die. Friends die. Even I will die one day. Ive told you this since you were old enough to understand the world. Its something you have to learn to accept. Ragnars jaw clenched, the frustration mounting. His fists tightened around the empty vial, his fingers white-knuckled. But I dont want to be weak enough to just let you die... or anyone else. When I became blessed, I thought it would open new paths of strength for me. But I didnt realize... I didnt realize that I would still feel so weak." His voice cracked slightly, a bitter edge creeping in. "I have so much anger inside me because of my weakness. No matter how much I train, no matter how hard I push myself, I dont feel like Im improving. I should have defeated them all easily. But I made a fool of myself." His chest heaved. "I feel weak, father." Yafgar studied him for a long moment and gave a short, almost amused huff, as though Ragnars struggles were familiar to him, but still worthy of attention. At that, Kai finally decided to speak. You arent weak. Youre pushing yourself too hard. Things dont work out when youre going beyond what your body can take. Youre going to break yourself like this. Youve gained newfound strength, but youre not using it properly. I understand the anger. But youre not utilizing it the right way. Ragnars brow furrowed as he looked up at the Kai, confusion clouding his gaze. What do you mean? Kai, who had played the role of a quiet observer till now, took a slow step forward. I actually came here to talk to you about it. His eyes met Ragnars, then the chieftains. Originally, your martial techniques were well-renowned. Especially for anyone who uses heavy weapons like axes. Yafgar nodded in acknowledgment, his pride evident. Yes, so? Kai continued. Is there a role for fury in those techniques? Yafgars gaze became sharper as he considered the question, then he nodded. There are seven techniques, each requiring more and more strength. Fury is a tool and one mentioned in the techniques... a good way to temporarily enhance strength. But it comes with a price. It can cloud judgment, make you reckless. The stronger you get, the more your emotions will play into your power. Fury is a good way to unlock a surge of strengthbut it wont solve everything. Not if its the only thing you rely on. Kai nodded again. Actually, Ive been thinking. You can enhance those techniques in a way that even Enforcers can use them. I know these techniques were originally designed for your warriors, but looking ahead, I think a lot of your tribe''s men are going to become Enforcers. Optimizing these techniques could turn you all undefeatable. Moreover, what I have in mind is mixing in anger when optimizing them, to help you use it to its full potential. Ragnar blinked. How do we do that? he asked, his voice almost eager, as if waiting for something to make sense of his endless frustrations. Mana moves on emotions, Kai said. A lot of the time, a Mages mana can act differentlymore destructivelyif their emotions are triggered. Lets say, for example, theyre angry. Their spells will hit harder, but theyll also drain their mana reserves faster. Its a temporary boost in strength, but it has consequences. The same goes for Enforcers, since you also use mana. Ive heard of techniques that temporarily grant a huge surge of strength in a fury-induced state. Of course, it''s temporary, and youll be exhausted soon after. But while the effect lasts... youll be a war god. Ragnars eyes gleamed, the hunger for that power evident in his posture. He straightened up, gripping his mace tightly as though imagining the raw power in his hands. But the chieftain stood up from his crouched position, his brow furrowed as he considered what Kai had said. I think, Yafgar mused slowly, youd want something in exchange for helping us with the optimization, Lord Arzan. Kais lips curled into a faint smile, and he didnt even try to hide it. Yes. I wont lie about that. I was hoping a part of the Enforcers, and even some of my ordinary men, would train with the Lombards. Yafgar raised an eyebrow, his gaze sharpening as he crossed his arms over his chest. You wont ask me to teach them our martial techniques, though? Kais smile softened, and he met the chieftains eye with a calmness that belied the heaviness of the words. Thats your choice. Im not here to force you into anything. I would be grateful, of course, but in the end, these techniques are something your ancestors passed down to you. I wouldnt dream of asking you to give them up. He had hoped that his men could learn the techniques of the Lombards, but he wasnt about to push too hard. His relationship with them was too important to risk, and forcing the issue would only cause resentment. Besides, the help he was offering was merely a starting pointa few basic notes, nothing too intricate or deep. The real optimization would be done by the Lombards themselves, as they were the true experts in their own martial techniques. He wasn''t well-versed in Enforcer techniques, after allhe only knew a few key aspects, not enough to teach them properly. His role, he knew, was to provide the foundation. It would be up to the Lombards to perfect it. Because, my help will be basic, just enough to get things started. The rest is up to you and your warriors to figure out. After all, youre the ones who truly understand your techniques. The chieftain nodded, his expression inscrutable, but there was a hint of approval in his eyes. Very well. I will ensure your men are treated well during their training. When they return to your cities, theyll be much more than they were when they came here. Kai smiled. That would be great. I believe in their potential, and this will only help them grow stronger. And as for the technique I mentioned earlierit came into being by being used by a group of Enforcers called Berserkerslet me tell you more about it. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Also, pre orders for Volume 1 are live. Thank you for the kind words in stub announcement. PS - Sorry for late post. I''m sick. Pre-order Magus Reborn Volume 1 HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. Magus Reborn Volume 1 is out on Amazon! Magus Reborn (a fantasy adventure epic) was picked up by Aethon Books and published yesterday (didnt happen in a day, of course) But here we are! Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. It''s totally free to rate. Also, if you have Kindle unlimited, please download either way even if you don''t wish to read. It helps with algorithm. Were aiming for 100 ratings in 5 days, and if we hit it, were dropping bonus chapters on Magus Reborn!!! Sarch* The Novl?ire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Heres the link: https://www.amazon.com/Magus-Reborn-Progression-Fantasy-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0DKYVN266 195. POV of a flaming knight The city of Dyerich was almost dead. Feroy moved through it, his boots clicking softly against the stone streets as his retinue followed behind him. Everywhere he looked, he was rewarded with thick silence. But despite the stillness, the tension was there. He felt it and he was sure that others did, too. Knight Feroy, Ive told you, you arent going to find any slaves here. And you have brought too many men into the city. Look around, it will scare the citizens, especially because the fief war just ended. Feroy looked at the source of the voice. Kailak, Baron Kairnsos brother. The current regent of the city whod been appointed by his brother just recently. Knight Feroy? His voice was annoying, louder than necessary, cutting through the calm. Feroys eyes briefly went to the two young men that flanked him. They looked more nervous than the man they were here to protect and he could tell that they were hastily conscripted, no doubt, a response to the increasing tension in the wake of the recent conflict. They were far too green to be of much use, but Kailak had insisted they accompany him for protection. He turned his sharp gaze back to the regent. Kailak flinched under the weight of Feroy''s stare. "I told you to clean them up yourself if you dont want us here," Feroy replied. "Lord Arzan has given orders to clean his cities of these vermin. They ran away from Veyrin once the fief war ended, but we found enough clues that they have a base here." Kailak frowned at the words, the muscles in his jaw tightening. "Are you accusing me of letting slavers infest this city?" His voice grew sharper, his eyes narrowing with defensive pride. "Slavery has been banned since the Act of Abolishing. Forty years, Knight Feroy. It had been forty years since then. Thats no small amount of time." Feroy paused, letting the silence stretch between them for a moment. When he spoke again, it was with a careful calm. "Im not accusing you, regent." His eyes bore into Kailaks with a touch of disdain. "But your brother wasn''t exactly the most just man. Even you should know that. So let me just act with my men." The regents face darkened, but Feroy didnt relent. "Youre doing enough good by giving us permission to search," Feroy continued. "You dont have to make it hard for you." Kailaks lips pressed into a thin line. I gave you permission to search, he said in a tight voice, but I didnt expect you to bring so many men. Feroy didnt so much as blink. The slave network is big from what weve uncovered. We need as many men as we can. I wouldve asked yours to support but after the fief war Well, not many of them remain. Kailak gritted his teeth but didnt argue. Feroy knew why. It was the only reason they had gotten permission so easilyDyerich simply had nothing to defend itself with. The city couldnt afford to offend the man who now ruled most of the Sylvan Enclave. Even if the king had remained silent on the fief war, and rumours of the Assembly of Judgment swirled in the shadows, for now, Lord Arzan was indisputable in the region. As they moved deeper into the city, one of Feroys men finally broke the silence. Were here. Feroy turned his gaze forward. The building stood at the very edge of the citys poor district, a two-story structure crammed between crumbling brickwork and narrow alleys. The lower half was built from dark stone. He could tell that the stained surface was due to years of neglect. The upper floor leaned slightly over the street, wooden beams jutting out to hold its frame. The windows were small, thickly shuttered and the only sign of recent use was the worn path that led to the door. As he had requested, most of the common people had already been cleared from the area, and according to the Watchers scout assigned to this mission, people had spotted figures slipping in and out of the building in the last few daysbut none had escaped since last night. Feroy let his gaze sweep over the structure one last time before giving his orders. Three will move through the back entrance, he said. Two stay outside. Keep an eye on everything. The rest are with me through the front. Got it? The men nodded in unison. Feroy turned to Kailak and his guards. Do you want to come with me? Kailaks lips curled upwards. Sure. Id like to see your face when you dont find anything. Sure, Feroy said, motioning for his men to move forward. he thought to himself and focused on the task at hand. One of the shorter men stepped up first, a man with nimble fingers and a quiet presence. He reached for the door, drawing a small set of lockpicks from his belt. A soft click echoed in the silence as it unlocked, he pushed the door open just enough for them to slip inside. The air within was stale, thick with the scent of damp wood and unwashed stone, and there was another murky smell; one that he couldnt point out. Light, Feroy muttered. At his command, a Mage named Iskiel lifted a hand, summoning a soft, glowing orb of light that floated above them. The yellow light illuminated the space as the group spread out, moving carefully. Kailak walked a few paces behind, his guards flanking him. More than once, Feroy caught the regents expression tightening, his mouth parting as if to speakonly for him to snap it shut again. And for his luck, Feroy wasnt interested in knowing whatever was on his mind. He was here for a mission, and he didnt need any more distractions. The search continued. Feroy tried to look through every nook and cranny, desperate to find something that would lead to the slaves. Weapons were strewn about haphazardlydaggers, rusted swords, even a crossbow left resting against a crate. A plate of half-eaten jerky sat abandoned on a table as if someone had left in a hurry. But for all the signs of occupation, there were no men to be found. It was all empty of life. He walked closer to take a good look at one of the crates when a voice called out from deeper inside. Knight Feroy! I found something. He moved quickly with a few others, stepping into a side room that had remained shrouded in the darkness until now. Iskiels light showed what was inside. And the sight before them was damning. Cages. , Feroy cursed under his breath over and over. Lining the walls were row upon row of iron cages, their bars caked in filth, the floor beneath them littered with straw and dried stains that needed no explanation. Shackles dangled from the bars, some still locked shut, others hanging loose, as if their occupants had only recently been freed. Torn scraps of fabric lay scattered across the groundone, in particular, catching Feroys eye. He crouched, looking at the strip of cloth that had once belonged to a dress. A womans dress. It was disgusting to say the least, and his heart clenched for the poor girls. Slowly, he stood, turning and looked at Kailak. Are you still going to say slavers arent here? His jaw ticked at the mention. These cages, are made for humansmore specifically, theyre too fucking small for most men, so, for women. Whoever was here, was selling sex slaves. He cursed again. Bastards. Kailaks face had gone pale. His mouth opened, but the words barely came, a weak murmur escaping him instead. I I didnt know about this. Feroy let out a breath, shaking his head. I believe you But your brother did. I dont see anyone here, one of the men muttered, scanning the empty cages and scattered remnants of occupation. Did they escape? Keep looking. Weve been watching themthey havent left the building. There must be a hidden entrance somewhere. At his order, the search continued, boots shuffling against the grimy floor as men overturned crates, tapped against walls, and checked beneath tables and furniture for anything out of place. He turned the tables and threw them at the walls, desperate to find any secret entrance to where they were. Nothings in here, someone from behind said. No, they couldnt give up. Not when he knew they were close enough to find the girls. Search farther. Iskiel, provide light till I think I found something! A shout came from the basement. At once, they all descended the creaking wooden steps two at a time. The air grew heavier with every step-down, thick with the scent of damp rot and something far fouler. As they reached the bottom, the man who had called out was standing near the centre of the room, pointing downward. There, hidden beneath a ragged carpet, was a hole in the ground. The edges of the stone had been roughly carved, leading down into utter darkness. They ran through the sewers, Feroy muttered, feeling like a long search was ahead of them. The man nodded. Should we go in? Feroy exhaled, considering. Yes. But not everyone. He turned to Kailak. Ill send some of my men with you. Do you know every sewer exit in the city, particularly the ones that lead outside? Kailak hesitated, then gave a small nod. Yes. We have records of them. Good. A few of my men will go with you and your guards to check those exits, Feroy instructed. Meanwhile, Ill head down and see if any of them are still hiding below. He expected Kailak to argue, to snap back at his casual commands. But instead, the regent simply nodded. Okay. Maybe he truly hadnt known about the slavers and felt guilty. Or maybe he was simply trying to stay on good terms with Lord Arzan. Either way, Feroy wasnt going to question itnot when it worked in his favour. As Kailak left with his assigned men, Feroy turned to the others. Ill take the lead. Iskiel and the rest of you, follow after me. They nodded. Without hesitation, Feroy stepped forward and leapt down into the darkness. As Feroy landed, the stench hit him like a solid wall. The foul mix of rot, filth, and stagnant water was nearly unbearable, clawing at his throat and making his stomach churn. Without hesitation, he reached for his sleeve, tearing off a strip of fabric and pressing it to his mouth and nose. Behind him, the others descended one by one, each immediately recoiling as the same putrid assault struck them. A few muttered curses, others coughed sharply, but none faltered for long. They were soldiers, hardened by war and battle, and they had learned to endure far worse. Iskiel raised a hand, murmuring a quick incantation. A soft, glowing orb of light formed in the air, illuminating the damp, narrow tunnel ahead. They saw their shadows dancing on the moss-ridden walls. Lets go, Feroy ordered; his voice muffled by the cloth over his mouth. They might have left some clues behind. Soon, they pushed forward. Slippery patches of grime made footing risky, and the narrow stream of sludge running along the centre of the tunnel only made things worse. Despite the filth, they kept to the walls, their eyes scanning every inch of their surroundings. Are there gonna be beasts down here? one of the men muttered, warily glancing around. Some overgrown rats, maybe. But nothing else. If there were, the slavers wouldnt have chosen this route. Theyre cowards. They only know how to run. The group nodded in agreement and pressed on, their movements quick but careful. Time dragged on as they walked, the tunnel stretching longer than Feroy had expected. Just how far did these sewers extend? Then, he saw it. Stop, Feroy ordered sharply, raising a hand. At an intersection ahead, right within the damp stone walls, was a door. Heavy, wooden, and reinforced with iron bands, it looked old but sturdyfar too wanton to be a simple maintenance entry. Iskiel stepped forward, studying it under the glow of his spell. Do you think its some kind of emergency room? Feroy exhaled through his nose, gaze unwavering on the door. Probably built to hide during attacks, sieges, and the like. Knight Killian mentioned theyre making something similar in Veralt as an emergency measure for civilians. He took a step forward, resting a hand on the hilt of his spear. Ill take charge." And with that, he moved toward the door. Feroy gripped the shaft and gave the door a firm push, only to find it locked from the inside. His eyes narrowed as he turned back to his men. Theres a good chance theyre inside, he muttered. Then, louder, Get ready. Without hesitation, he channelled power into his spear, its edges glowing faintly with a burning aura. With a single mighty slash, the weapon cleaved through the wooden gate. The door shattered instantly, sending splinters and debris flying. What lay inside confirmed everything. A dozen men stood, weapons already drawn, their faces rough and unkempt with thick beards and sharp, animalistic eyes. They had expected trouble. And Feroy would give enough of that. Because what was behind them, boiled his blood. Behind them, bound in heavy chains, were womenno, girlsfilthy, bruised, and huddled together in fear. The air in the room was thick with sweat, damp wood, and something darkersomething vile. Feroys eyes flared with fury. Get ready for a fight! a throaty yell escaped his lips. Then, glancing at the Mage behind him, he added sharply, Iskiel, no wide spells! We cant risk hurting the innocents! Without another word, he surged forward. Fire erupted around his spear, a searing heat that crackled in the air. The slavers froze for a split second, their eyes widening in shock at the sudden blaze. Feroy didnt give them time to recover. He lunged, his spear a blur. From the back of the room, two arrows whistled toward him. With a sharp twist of his wrist, he deflected them midair, the metal tips glancing harmlessly off his weapon. His momentum never falteredhis spear arced downward in a savage strike, cleaving through the first man in his path. Blood sprayed across the room as the slavers head rolled to the floor. The next man managed to block. Feroys eyes flickered to the enemys bladejust in time to catch the glint of something green along its edge. Poison! he shouted to his men. Watch their weapons! He shifted immediately, his strikes turning precise, avoiding attacks. No reckless movements, no unnecessary risks. He let his fire do the workevery swing of his spear forced the slavers back, the searing heat making them falter, their grips loosening as flames licked at their weapons. One by one, they stumbled, their flesh burning just enough for pain to override their will to fight. Meanwhile, behind him, Iskiel unleashed elemental attacks. Small bursts of wind sent slavers tumbling, warm gusts swirled around them, knocking them off balance and making them hesitate in fear. S~ea??h the N?vel(F)ire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. The strategy was workingpushing them back, keeping them off balance, ensuring they never regained control. All the while, Feroy was going full offensive with his spear. He continued to attack, bleeding them to death. He slashed and thrashed, finding any joint possible, digging deeper until he knew they could no longer stand. Like that, only one was left and he surged forward and pierced his spear through the man''s throat. It happened too quickly for the slaver to defend, and he fell with a gurgled cry. He barely spared the body a glance before casting his gaze around the bloodstained room. The scent of sweat, rust, and death still clung to the air, but the fight was over. Feroy finally turned toward the captives. Huddled together in chains, the young women trembled. Some cried and some flinched at every movement, their wide, fearful eyes darting between the bodies and the armed men standing before them.He couldnt even properly identify their facial features with all the dirt that they were covered in. Their cries filled his ears and he waited for a second, and another until his adrenaline calmed. He couldnt scare the women more than they already were. But seeing the state they were in, barely any clothes left on their bodies, soot covering their bodieshe wished he could bring the bastards back to life just to kill them all over again, slower. He exhaled loudly through his nose, forcing his breath to calm down and voice into something gentler. Its over, he said. He took a step towards them. He felt his breath caught in his throat at the tremor of his own voice. Youre safe now. We will get you back to your families soon. The words did little to ease their terror, but at least some of the shaking stopped. A girl who was in the corner couldnt stop her hiccups, and Feroy knew she needed time. He turned back to his men. Is anyone injured? Two raised their hands. One had taken a deep gash to the leg, while the other clutched his hand, blood seeping through his fingers where a poisoned blade had cut through. Feroys eyes narrowed. Get them potions and take them out of the sewers first, he ordered. Theyll need proper treatment for the poison. Have them keep drinking the potion every five minutes until were sure its flushed out. A few of his men nodded and quickly moved to help the injured, supporting them as they began the slow trek back up. With that handled, Feroy turned back to the girls. He knelt, reaching into his pouch and pulling out a handful of healing potions. He uncorked one and extended it toward them. Drink this, he said. Itll help with your injuries. Soon, youll be out of here. The girls hesitated. Fear still lingered in their eyes, their hands twitching as though expecting another cruel trick. But after a long, uncertain moment, one girl with dirt-covered-blonde hair slowly reached out, taking the potion from him. She hesitated only a second before drinking. Then, voice hoarse, she asked, Who are you? Feroy gave her a small, reassuring nod. Knight Feroy, he said. I came to save you allby the order of my lord, Count Arzan. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. PS: Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. Also, it''s free to rate and please download the book if you have Kindle unlimited. It helps with algorithm. Were aiming for 100 ratings in 5 days, and if we hit it, were dropping bonus chapters. Read HERE. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. 196. Experiments with dead mana Kai stayed with the Lombards for another day, sharing everything he knew about the different types of Enforcers and more into the lost art of the Berserkers. By the time he was born, Berserkers had already become legends of the past, their peak etched into history during the second golden era of magic. Back then, they had built an empire fueled by fury and unmatched might. Although much of their knowledge had faded into obscurity, Kai still recalled fragments of their skills and fighting styles from a book he had read on themtechniques that turned unbridled rage into a weapon of mass devastation. His plan for the Lombards was clear; transform them into a small, furious battle regiment. It was a vision that seemed to resonate deeply with the tribe. Both Yafgar and Ragnar, in particular, were electrified by the idea. Ragnar, being extremely burdened by anger since the loss of his friend, appeared especially eager to channel his fury into something less self-destructive. But again, grief was different from person to person. Kai was one of the people whod direct grief into something purposeful, and only wished Ragnar would see the whole Berserker theory from his point of view. During one of their discussions, Yafgar pressed Kai about the source of his knowledge. Was there truly a surviving tribe of Berserkers, hidden away somewhere? How had he come to get the knowledge of their martial arts? Kai had no answers for such questions and had simply dismissed it as nothing more than folk tales that hed heard in his youth. Making excuses for his extensive knowledge had now become second nature, and thankfully, both Yafgar and Ragnar seemed far more invested in the practical application of fury than knowing where the knowledge came from. And when he finally departed, he carried hope in his heart, leaving behind a tribe ready to rise like a storm. His journey back to Veralt was brief, but once he arrived, he quickly realized that he had little time to settle. Another venture called to himnot as a lord but as a Mage seeking to unravel new mysteries of magic. He barely paused before setting out again, this time accompanied by Amyra. Their destination was the gorge where he had faced Shakran, west of Castle Dorn. Passing the castle, they noted the ongoing repairs that the place was going through. He felt no obligation to oversee the reconstructionhe had returned Castle Dorn to Viscount Buck already. Still, he had sent a contingent of men to assist with the repairs. Buck, one of the more reasonable nobles, seemed like a good noble to be acquainted with, and creating a solid relationship with him seemed a prudent move. After all, alliances often started with small gestures of goodwill. sea??h th N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. They guided their horse along the slightly rocky path, the uneven terrain making the ride just bumpy enough to force them into light conversation. They spoke briefly about the terrain and the monsters that roamed these parts, their voices blending with the steady clopping of hooves. It was Amyra who finally changed the topic to their purpose here, her curiosity bubbling over. She leaned slightly forward from her seat behind Kai, her arms loosely gripping his waist. So... what exactly are we here to do? Kai glanced back at her over his shoulder, raising a brow. What do you think were here for? She tilted her head, chewing on the question for a moment. To train? she guessed first, her lips quivering in thought. Or maybe... sightsee for a change? If it was the first, Id have brought Rhea along, he said. And sadly, I dont think I have the luxury to take a sightseeing trip right now. No, were here for something else. Youll see when we get thereits close by. Amyra nodded as she knew that it was all the explanation shed get for now, and kept her mouth shut as Kai urged the horse to pick up speed. The wind tousled his hair as they rode faster, and soon the horizon opened up before them. The first thing Amyra noticed as they approached was the land. All around the wide field ahead, the ground had turned barren and lifeless, riddled with blackened patches that looked as if something had drained the very essence from beneath the soil. As they drew closer, a rancid, gut-wrenching smell hit them like a wall, making Amyra gag from behind. The smell of dead mana, she muttered, scrunching up her nose in disgust. They smell worse than the spiders. Yeah, Kai said. With the spiders, their natural odor masked some of the dead manas scent. But here, theres nothing to cover it. They slowed to a halt at the edge of the corrupted land, dismounting carefully. Amyra stepped forward, taking in the devastation up close. He looked at how she scanned the ground, noting how lifeless and eerie it looked, as though nothing had thrived here in years. How did it end up like this? she asked. She was rubbing her hands constantly, as if trying to wipe off any trace of the disturbing scene from her body. Kai rested a hand on his horses neck, staring out at the desolate landscape. During my battle with Shakranthe blood drinker Lord, remember? I told you about it over breakfast a couple of weeks agowe fought right here, he explained. He used dead mana to power himself up, channeling it through some kind of parasite. He hesitated for a moment since recalling the details was unpleasant. I wont go into the full story, but the aftermath The dead mana that spilled into the land left it like this. Fortunately, I warned the nearby villagers to stay far away from this place. If they hadnt, wed have had to deal with a whole mess of mana weavers by now. Even most beasts avoid it. For now, the dead mana is contained to the land. Amyra nodded. Its worse than I imagined. Were going to begin a few experiments here. Ones Ive been meaning to do for a while to better gauge your powers. Are you comfortable with that? Amyra blinked at him, then turned to look at the barren, corrupted ground ahead. Yes. Together, they began walking toward the desolate patch of land. The reason I chose this place is that, even though its tainted, the concentration of dead mana here is still low. It hasnt reached the point where I wouldnt be able to heal you if something went wrong. But if your innate powers work the way we think it do it shouldnt. Amyra gave him another small nod. What do you want me to do? Lets start with something simple. A basic interaction with the dead mana. She understood immediately. Without another word, she stepped closer to the edge of one of the blackened spots on the ground, her focus sharpening. Taking a deep breath, she crouched slightly and extended her hands toward the tainted earth. Kai tensed, ready to act if anything went wrong. His mana surged within him, prepared to pull her away and purify her if needed. He watched closely as her fingers hovered just above the blackened soil before lightly brushing against it. At first, nothing happened. Then, slowly, Kai noticed subtle changes. The dead manadark, twisting strands invisible to most eyesbegan to react to her presence. It seeped upward, like oily smoke, and latched onto her fingers. Dark spots started to bloom across her hands, spreading slowly up her arms as the corrupted energy traveled through her veins. Kais jaw tightened. He could feel the dead mana creeping through her body, invading her system. Amyra though, on the other hand, stayed still, her breathing steady despite the visible corruption. She kept her hand on the tainted ground for a full minute, even as the dark veins spread further up her arms. Kais instincts screamed at him to intervene, and he was just about to pull her away when something unexpected happened. The dark spots began to fade. At first, he couldnt notice it. But then, the corruption started retreating, shrinking back as if it was being pulled inward and dissolved. Amyra stepped back from the dead mana zone, brushing her hands off as though nothing had happened. Kai was already at her side, his hand reaching out to gently take hers. He inspected her fingers carefully, his brows furrowed. Are you okay? Amyra nodded. Kai noticed the subtle changes in her, her golden pupils dilated, her cheeks flushed. But there were no signs of tiredness. Almost as if she hadnt absorbed dead mana seconds ago. I told youIm resistant to it. Let me see. Kai didnt believe her right away. Instead, he closed his eyes and sent a pulse of his own mana through her hand, letting it flow through her veins as he searched for any lingering traces of the dead mana. He expected to find at least some residue, something to indicate that it had been there. But there was nothing. Not even a hint of corruption remained in her system. It was as if the dead mana had simply vanished. Kai frowned, delving deeper with his mana, searching for any clue about what had happened. But the more he searched, the clearer it becamethere was no trace of dead mana left in her body. It hadnt just been suppressed or expelled. It was gone. Completely. That shouldnt be possible. He opened his eyes and studied her. Either the dead mana had been broken down and purified by her own manaa feat that was already incredibleor it had gone somewhere he couldnt detect. Both possibilities left him with more questions than answers. You shouldnt be able to do that, he said quietly, almost to himself. Amyra raised a brow. But I did. Kai shook his head slightly. Yeah. You did. Can you do it again? She blinked at him. Again? This time, Im going to add a stream of my own mana to yours. I want to see where the dead mana is going. Umm Okay. Once more, she stepped toward the edge of the corrupted patch of ground, crouching slightly and extending her hand. Kai moved closer, gently taking her other hand in his and focusing as he slowly began pushing a stream of his mana into her. He closed his eyes, letting his senses expand as he observed what happened inside her body. At first, everything seemed normaluntil the dead mana began moving again. He saw it clearly this time. Like dark, parasitic strands, the dead mana snaked through her veins, attempting to spread throughout her body. It moved like a living thing, insidious and relentless, trying to corrupt her mana and taint her body from the inside out. His grip on her hand tightened slightly, but he didnt pull back. He kept watching, following the path of the dead mana as it slithered closer to her Mana heart. And thats when it happened. The dead mana disappeared. It wasnt expelled or neutralizedit simply vanished the moment it neared her Mana heart. His eyes widened, but before he could even process what hed seen, he felt ita sudden burst of mana surging from her core. The burst wasnt chaotic or uncontrolled. It was strong, steady, and purposeful. It flowed through Amyras body, reinforcing her strength and slowly purging the remaining traces of dead mana. The dark spots on her skin faded once more, and within moments, there was no sign that she had ever been corrupted. Kai exhaled slowly. The entire process had confirmed several of his theories. Her resistance wasnt just a passive abilityit was tied to something far deeper. The way her Mana heart had absorbed and purified the dead mana wasnt natural. Since he couldn''t see which part of it had done the purification, he was sure that it was connected to her astral realm. There was no other explanation. And yet, despite his understanding, there were still so many unanswered questions. Kai looked at Amyra, who was examining her hands. Are you okay? he asked. She glanced at him and nodded. Im fine. It felt easier this time. Kai studied her for a moment before deciding to push things further. Amyra, can you try something else for me? What is it? Can you absorb the dead mana from the ground? Not just let it corrupt you, but try to pull it out all from the ground. Absorb it? Ive never tried that before. Just give it a shot, Kai said, nodding toward a small patch of dead mana to their left. Try sending out strands of your own mana and see if you can absorb the dead mana inside that patch. Amyra hesitated again, biting her lip as she considered his request. Alright, she said softly. He watched as she extended her hand again, releasing multiple strands of mana that shimmered faintly before lodging themselves deep into the corrupted ground. For a moment, she seemed hesitant, her brows furrowing slightly in concentration as she tried to pull the dead mana upward. At first, nothing happened. Then, there it washer mana strands began to darken within seconds, like ink spreading through water. The dead mana clung to them, climbing up her arm in slow, sinister tendrils. He tensed, ready to intervene the moment it seemed like she was losing control. But as he watched, something happened. The dark spots on Amyras skin began fading just as quickly as they had appeared, vanishing as if they had been burned away from the inside. He could feel itthe dead mana wasnt dissipating. It was being purified. Again. But she didnt stop there. Amyra sent out more strands of mana, drawing in more dead mana from the ground in steady pulses. Each time, the process repeatedthe corruption climbed up her body, only to be purified and expelled near her mana heart. Kais gaze flickered back to the ground, and thats when he noticed something strange. The blackened, corrupted soil beneath her hand was starting to change. The dark patches were shrinking, and the earth beneath them was left cracked and dry, like parched desert ground. It looked barren, almost lifeless. When Kai focused his mana senses, he confirmed what he suspectedthere was no dead mana left in that patch of land. But there was something else, too. There wasnt much mana left in the soil, either. It was almost depleted, as though the dead mana had taken all the energy with it when it was sucked away. Hed never seen anything like this before. In his time, no land had ever been cured of dead mananot fully, not like this. No one even knew what happened to land after it was purged. Would it eventually recover? Or will it stay barren forever? The possibilities swirled in his head, each more incredible than the last. Experiments. Research. If Amyra could do this on a larger scale He turned back toward her just as she dropped her hand, breathing heavily. Sweat glistened on her brow, and her chest rose and fell as she struggled to catch her breath. It was clear that purifying so much dead mana at once had taken a toll on her. Theres a limit, Kai murmured to himself, noting the signs of fatigue. You cant purify endlessly. Still, he had to admitit was more than he ever could have imagined. Should we stop here for today? he asked, stepping closer. Amyra looked up at him, wiping her forehead with the back of her hand. She was tired, but there was a fire in her eyes. No, she said, shaking her head. Its okay. I can still go on. I just need a few minutes. Kai considered her for a moment before nodding. Alright. Because I have a few more things I want to check. And if Im right were going to be seeing miraculous things in the future. What kind of miraculous things? Kai smiled faintly, a glint of excitement in his eyes. Youll see, he said. Because youre going to be at the center of it all. But for now we have more experiments to run. *** A man raced down the forested road at breakneck speed, his crimson hair whipping wildly in the wind, strands flying across his face as though urging him to stopbut he didnt. His eyes remained fixed ahead, unwavering, his jaw clenched. Behind him, a retinue of armored Knights followed, struggling to keep pace with his galloping steed. Hooves pounded against the dirt, kicking up clouds of dust, as trees blurred past them in a dizzying rush. The air was thick with urgency, every second a race against something unseen but undeniably perilous. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the man caught sight of his destinationa towering fortress carved into the side of a hill. It loomed over the landscape like a silent guardian, its stone walls weathered by time and battle. More than just a stronghold, it marked the boundary of the Sylvan Enclave, far away from the center. As he drew closer, soldiers on the wall caught sight of him, their eyes widening in recognition. By the time he reached the fortress gates, a group of men was already there to meet him. Viscount Redmont. They bowed as he dismounted, but he barely acknowledged them Take me to the walls, he ordered. Yes, my lord! they responded in unison, straightening at once. Without hesitation, they led him toward the winding stairway that climbed the fortress wall. He followed them swiftly, nearly running. His Knights were still catching up, their armor clanking as they ascended behind him, but he didnt slow down. He had to see it for himself. At the top of the wall, a small group of officers and soldiers awaited him, everyone so stiff. He knew why. Among them was a tall, broad-shouldered Knight clad in dark plate armorthe man entrusted with overseeing the fortresss defenses, Knight Cais. Whats the situation? Redmont demanded. Cais exchanged a troubled glance with the others before answering. You should see for yourself, my lord. Wordlessly, Cais gestured for him to follow, leading him toward the center of the wall. From there, they had an unobstructed view of the other side of the hilland what lay beyond it. When Viscount Redmont reached the edge and looked out, his breath caught in his throat. An unnatural darkness stretched before him, swallowing the land. Trees, grass, stoneseverything was cloaked in black, as though the earth itself had been infected by some vile curse. He couldnt see anything beyond the tallest tree branches. It was a sea of darkness, endless and consuming. For several long moments, he stared, unable to tear his eyes away from the sight. His heart pounded in his chest, cold fear creeping through his veins. And fuck, he could feel the goosebumps all over his body. When when did this start? he asked at last, his voice quieter now, almost hoarse. Two weeks ago, my lord, Cais replied. It was small at firstjust a patch near the edge of the forest. But its been spreading ever since. Its already reached the lower slopes of the hill. If it keeps advancing at this rate, it will overrun the fortress and breach the border. Redmonts hands curled into fists, his knuckles turning white. Fear flickered in his eyes, but he forced himself to remain composed. He couldnt afford to panicnot now. Though his body, his entire body wanted him to run away from this disaster. We need to send word to the King, he said. And to every noble in the surrounding region. Anyone who can lend us aid. If we dont stop this the Lancephil Kingdom will face its worst ordeal since its founding. Cais nodded. Ill see to it at once, my lord. But Redmont wasnt listening anymore. His gaze had drifted back to the spreading darkness, his mind racing with possibilitiesand none of them good. The plague could consume everything on its way. And that that was scary. He wiped the sweat from his face, though his eyeshe couldnt tear away from the stygian he was staring. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. PS: Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. Also, it''s free to rate and please download the book if you have Kindle unlimited. It helps with algorithm. Were aiming for 100 ratings in 5 days, and if we hit it, were dropping bonus chapters. Read HERE. PSS - If any of you want to watch the book trailer Aethon made for me, please enter my discord server. 197. Circles and princess What Kai discovered in his experiments with Amyra wasnt just groundbreaking. It was the kind of breakthrough that every Mage in his era, and countless ones before it, had spent lifetimes chasing. The ability resisted, absorbed and purified dead mana. It shouldve been impossible, unprecedented that even ancient archives of the Sorcerers Tower held only vague theories about it. Yet here it was. And Amyra was at the center of it. Todays test confirmed what hed started to suspect: she wasnt just a promising Mage. She might very well be the key to saving the world. Maybe even more than him. And that meant, there were so many other things he had to consider when it came to her. Her control wasnt perfect, not yet, but what she accomplished in the last few hours was more than enough to leave Kai in awe. She had managed to absorb and purify the dead mana from two and a half meters of the landa small patch by most standards, but when it came to dead mana, any progress was monumental. In the grander scheme of things, it was just a fraction of what was needed, but Kai could already see the potential brimming beneath the surface. He had no doubt her ability would grow stronger as she advanced in her circles, though it didnt feel like a simple mana-based skill. If he had to guess, it was more akin to a mental discipline, like a spell that sharpened with practice. The purified mana she absorbed seemed to replenish her reserves, but it was the act of processing itthe mental strain of bending dead mana to her willthat seemed to take the real toll on her. There were ways to help with that. Minor spells to ease mental fatigue. Potions that could soothe her frayed focus. But none of those were his real goal. His true focus remained on unlocking the deeper mechanisms behind her ability. Understanding what made it work. And, if possible, finding a way to replicate it. Because if Amyra could master this poweror, gods willing, teach it to othersthey might just stand a chance against the creeping tide of death that threatened to swallow their world whole. With Amyra being just one person, he knew the risks were immense. The moment Maleficia discovered her existence, they would focus on her with unrelenting ferocity. And that wasnt just paranoiait was calculated certainty. He had his suspicions that Maleficia might have been behind the massacre of her clan. It was too convenient to think such a large, powerful bloodline had fallen by chance. But he still lacked hard evidence, just fragmented clues that pointed in too many directions. Until he had more, all he could do was protect Amyra with everything he had. To that end, hed already assigned Clement to shadow her, along with additional watchers keeping her under constant, albeit subtle, surveillance. He knew Clement wouldnt fail him, and it was a consolance. It helped, but it didnt ease his mind completely. Hed be much more at peace if he could discover a way to replicate her abilitiesor at least gather more Mages like her. It would share the burden. Take some of the danger off her shoulders. But again, danger was inevitable. That much was certain. And once again, he was left with the feeling that he should grow stronger. Especially now that there were so many depending on him. With his daily duties as lord finally winding down, he made his way toward his quarters. It was still early evening, which meant he had a few hours before his body would demand rest. A perfect window for cultivating his mana. Especially now that he could feel the next breakthrough, the elusive fourth circle, hovering just out of reach. Tonight, perhaps, hed finally crack the barrier. With that single hope in mind, he walked. He moved through the castle corridors that were shadowy but still alive with quiet activity. Maids moved here and there, carrying linen and trays. Guards patrolled the halls. And as he moved, they bowed in respect, but he barely acknowledged them, his mind already drifting to the familiar pull of mana refinement. He was used to this routine by now. But just as he reached the hall outside his room, he noticed someone lingering near the door. Anya. Amaras maid. The young woman straightened the moment she spotted him and dipped into a deep bow, her hands neatly folded in front of her. Lord Arzan, she greeted softly. Kai slowed his steps, raising an eyebrow. Anya. What are you doing here? She straightened. Her Highness, Princess Amara, wished me to deliver a message. Kais expression didnt change, though he could already guess where this was going. And what message would that be? The princess was wondering if you might join her for dinner this evening. Kai hesitated, unsure how to respond. After the fief war, he hadnt had much time for Amaraor for anyone, really. His responsibilities as someone who had conquered a large territory had consumed him entirely, and any free moments he could have spent with her were swallowed by paperwork, strategies, and inspections. Even his meals were taken in his office, often in the middle of signing documents or reviewing supply chain reports. The few times theyd crossed paths in the hallways, Amara had tried to strike up conversations, every time being cheerful about it, but hed always been too preoccupied to properly engage. His answers had been clipped, his mind elsewhere, and after a while, shed stopped trying. He knew that she had waited. But it seemed that patience had finally run out. Kai glanced at Anya, whose steady, neutral expression betrayed none of her own thoughts. He sighed internally, realizing that as much as he might want to, he couldnt give Amara the time she deserved tonight. Not with everything weighing on him. Im sorry, he said. But I have to work on my mana circles tonight. Disappointment flickered in Anyas eyes, but before she could reply, he added, Tell her Id love to join her for breakfast tomorrow morning instead. At that, Anyas face brightened just a little, and she nodded. Ill let her know, my lord. Without wasting any more time, she dipped into another bow and quietly left, her footsteps fading down the hallway. Kai stood there for a moment, watching her leave, before exhaling softly and turning toward his door. Hed deal with the rest later. For now, he needed to focus. The door closed behind him with a soft click as he entered his room. Striding across the familiar space, he shrugged off his outer cloak and let it fall onto the nearby chair before lowering himself onto the floor in a familiar cross-legged position. He took a deep breath, closing his eyes, and let his body relax as he prepared to cultivate. But before that, he needed to ground himself. With all the thoughts that occupied his mind like restless shadows vying for attention, he had to get his focus straight. His responsibilities as lord. The endless reports were still waiting on his desk. The need to test more people for mana organs. Amyra. Maleficia. The Elder Tree. Each thought surfaced and lingered for a moment before slipping away, replaced by the next. But as he slowly began to swirl his mana within his core, each worry faded, one by one, until his mind was silent, empty of everything except the steady flow of energy coursing through him. His focus narrowed, sharpening as he directed his attention inward, toward the Mana heart at the center of his core. Three glowing circles spun within it, bright and steady, each one representing the culmination of countless hours of cultivation. Now, his goal was clear: to forge the fourth circle. He concentrated, guiding the swirling mana into the familiar channels within his body. It flowed through his veins like familiar liquid fire. Slowly, steadily, he began to push it toward the edges of his core, where the barrier to the next circle lay, waiting to be broken. It wasnt just about powerit never had been. This was about control. Refinement. A delicate balance between pushing the limits and holding steady. One wrong move, and the entire process could backfire, destabilizing his Mana heart. But he didnt rush. He knew better. He could lose all the abilities to wield his powers if he rushed, if something broke. He took it easy. As the mana surged and swirled, he lost track of time, his breathing slowing to a deep, rhythmic cadence. The room around him faded, and the only thing that remained was the mana, the circles, and the silent, unyielding barrier standing between him and his next breakthrough. He knew he was close. He had been for a while now, but that invisible wall, that maddening barrier, refused to budge. It mocked him like a silent challenge, daring him to break through. It wasnt the first time he had felt this frustration. In his previous life, reaching the fourth circle had been a grueling, torturous process. It had taken him three times longer to achieve than the first three circles combined. Hed spent years clawing his way past it, frustrated at every failed attempt, every wasted night of cultivation. Now, he was in an era where mana was abundant, so thick in the air that you could practically taste it. And unlike before, his techniques were refined, sharpened by experience, and vastly more efficient. His progress had been extraordinary so far. Even so, he knew that none of it mattered unless he could cross this threshold. Because the real power of a Mage didnt begin until the fourth circle. This was the gateway to true strength, the step right before earning the title of Magus. It was also the point where a Mage began to transform, refining their body to be something far more than just humana being of mana and flesh, with both working in tandem. But to reach that stage, he first had to surmount this wall. And right now, it felt like a mountain. He gritted his teeth and kept swirling his mana inside his core, drawing in more of the ambient mana around him. Slowly, he guided it toward the walls of his astral core, the intangible space within him where his mana circles spun like glowing rings of energy. Each circle burned bright, marking his progressand the fourth one hovered at the edge of formation, flickering like an incomplete rune waiting to be etched. To create more circles, his astral core needed to expand. And expanding it wasnt as simple as just adding more mana. It was pressure. S~ea??h the N??elFir.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Unrelenting pressure that pushed against the boundaries of his core, forcing it to stretch, to grow, to make room for more. It wasnt a physical coreit wasnt something you could see or touchbut the process felt real enough. The burning ache deep inside him, the tight, almost suffocating sensation as his astral core expanded bit by bitit was excruciating. Not as bad as becoming an Enforcer, perhaps. But still painful enough that it threatened to shatter his concentration with every breath. He didnt let it. He focused. Bit by bit, he targeted specific areas of his core, gently expanding them with each pulse of mana. It wasnt a process that could be rushedif he pushed too hard, the entire core could destabilize, undoing everything. So he moved carefully, almost surgically. Slowly, he expanded the boundaries while simultaneously guiding the swirling mana to form the fourth circle. The mana crackled within him, like a storm waiting to be unleashed, but he held it in check, guiding it, shaping it, forcing it into submission. And all the while, the pressure mounted, pressing down on him like the weight of the world, threatening to crush him beneath it. Both tasksexpanding the core and forming the fourth circledemanded intense focus, but Kai had long mastered the art of multitasking under pressure. Every half hour, he allowed himself a brief respite. Just five minutes. He didnt open his eyes, didnt shift from his position, but he loosened the tight hold on his mana and let his body relax. The tension in his shoulders, the slight ache in his back from sitting upright, the strain in his corethey eased during those moments. Getting back on track after each break was difficult, like forcing himself to jump into icy water after warming up. But he knew better than to push through nonstop. This wasnt a battle where brute force would win the day. One wrong move could cripple him permanently. But that wasnt why he was taking it so seriously. No, there was much more at stake. Advancing to the fourth circle would change everything. Once he broke through, his Mana heart would expand, granting him a vastly larger mana pool and the ability to control it with greater finesse. His body would also undergo subtle, but profound changes. Mana resistance was one of the most critical ones. Right now, lower-circle spells could still affect him. Not easilyhe had training, enchanted gear, a tougher Enforcer body and sheer combat experiencebut they could. Once he reached the fourth circle, that would change. His body would be so saturated with mana that first-circle spells would barely scratch him. Even second-circle magic would have a hard time breaking through his defenses unless it was cast by someone powerful. And that was just the beginning. Higher-circle Mages werent just stronger because they had more mana. They were stronger because they lived on a different level. Their spells hit harder, yes, but more importantly, they became almost immune to lower-circle attacks. It was why, in a duel between a fourth-circle Mage and a second-circle one, the outcome was almost always predetermined. Power level wasnt the only issuethere was an inherent, almost biological gap that magic couldnt easily bridge. And that gap widened with each circle. Kai knew that reaching the fourth circle would give him a much-needed edge. Against Maleficia, against rival nobles, and against the inevitable dangers that would come his way. It would also extend his lifespan significantly. That was one of the most understated, but critical, benefits of advancing in mana circles. His body would age slower, his cells sustained by the constant flow of magic. That, too, was why so many powerful Mages seemed to remain at their prime for decades longer than normal people. And why Kai was giving this everything he had. His path to the third circle had been relatively easy, by comparison. The first three circles mostly involved increasing ones mana capacity and controlchallenging, but straightforward. The fourth circle, however, was a different beast entirely. Here, it was about transformation and not just accumulating more mana. Expanding his astral core, weaving the new circle, and pushing his body to adapt to the higher concentration of energy flowing through it. The pressure kept building, like an invisible weight pressing down on him as more and more ambient mana gathered around his body, drawn in by his cultivation technique. He could feel it like a gentle, but persistent, current brushing against his skin, soaking into his pores, filling him from the inside out. He breathed through his nose, slow and steady, guiding the flow. One breath in. One breath out. Again. One breath in. One breath out. And again. One breath in. One breath out. Bit by bit, the fourth circle was forming, and the boundaries of his astral core were slowly, painstakingly stretching to make room for it. It wasnt fast. It wasnt easy. But it was progress. The circle inside Kais body was a swirling vortex of condensed manaa chaotic spiral that was supposed to smooth into perfection. But it wasnt there yet. Frowning internally, he shifted his focus, channeling more mana into those missing sections to fill the gaps. He knew that, under normal circumstances, he should have been done by now. Yet, something felt off. The circle wasnt stabilizing. Instead, it kept devouring more and more mana. By now, he had poured more energy into this one formation than hed needed for his fourth circle in his previous life. And it still wasnt enough. He clenched his jaw, frustration simmering beneath the surface, but there was no time to dwell on it. The increasing density of mana meant that his astral boundariesalready stretched beyond what hed anticipatedwould have to expand even more. And that was a serious problem. His breathing grew ragged as exhaustion crept in. The constant push and pull of mana left him drained, and despite his best efforts, the boundaries kept stretching without a sign of stopping. It was like trying to fill an endless void. A low groan escaped his lips as the pressure built to unbearable levels. His chest tightened, his limbs trembled, and sweat trickled down his face in rivulets. He was at his limit. And he knew it. If he kept this up any longer, hed risk collapsing his entire core. With a reluctant sigh, Kai let go of the flow, cutting off the mana supply to the circle and slowing the stretching process. He needed to stopimmediately. Slowly, he opened his eyes. The sudden rush of light and sensation hit him like a wave, and before he could steady himself, his body gave out. He slumped forward, collapsing onto the cool stone floor with a dull thud. His breath came in harsh gasps as he lay there, chest heaving, sweat pooling beneath him. Every muscle ached, and his head throbbed with the dull pain of overexertion. After a few moments, he forced his shaky hand to rise and cast [Refresh] on himself. For a moment, he felt like even that small spell took so much of him. But it died when a rush of cool energy washed over his body, dulling the worst of his fatigue. It was still there, but just not as bad. With a groan, he shifted onto his back, staring up at the ceiling as he summoned a sliver of mana to inspect his Mana heart. His astral core flickered into view, and he scanned it carefully, bracing for the worst. To his immense relief, there was no damage. No cracks, no signs of instability. Just the swirling, incomplete fourth circle sitting at the center, waiting to be finished. Still, something about the whole process didnt sit right with him. Hed poured far more mana into this circle than he should have needed. Why? Had he miscalculated? Was there something different about his current bodyor his astral realm? He sighed, wiping the sweat from his brow as he sat up slowly. His limbs still felt like lead, but his mind was already working, running through the calculations again, trying to make sense of what had happened. That was the question. And until he had an answer, he wouldnt be attempting another breakthrough anytime soon. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair before staggering to his feet. His limbs still felt heavy, as though they were tied down by iron chains, but the knock at the door forced him to push through the exhaustion. He shuffled to the entrance, his steps uneven, and pulled the door open. Standing before him was Princess Amara. She was wearing a bright smile, happier than ever just to see him? Or was there something else? Lord Arzan, she said, Im glad youre still awake. Kai blinked, momentarily thrown off, but before he could respond, Amaras eyes flicked downward, taking in his disheveled statethe damp shirt clinging to his chest, his tousled hair, and the tired lines etched into his face. Are you all right? she asked, her brows furrowing with concern. Kai managed a small, weary smile. I am. Just a bit of training, he said lightly, though the understatement didnt quite hide the exhaustion in his voice. Did you have some work for me, Princess? Amara shook her head, a small, almost shy smile tugging at her lips. No, its just its been a while since we talked. She paused, hesitating for a brief moment. I know you said we could talk over breakfast tomorrow, but I couldnt sleep. And I thought you might be free by now. Kai didnt know what to say to that. He stood there, momentarily at a loss for words, because even if he was free, he knew exactly what it would look like for a princess to visit him in the middle of the night. There might not be any scandal, given that they were within his estate, but Amara wasnt ignorant of such things. She knew what she was doing. Clearing his throat, Kai looked at her, Princess, I dont think us meeting like thisat this houris appropriate. Amara lifted an eyebrow and tilted her head. Then, to his surprise, she smiled. Do we have to worry about that? she asked. I believe were both capable of thinking for ourselves. We dont need to concern ourselves with the social implications of every little thing. Amara took a step closer, closing some of the distance between them. And if nothing else, she added, we can talk about magic. Ive been meaning to ask you some questions. Kai exhaled quietly, wondering if he was really about to have this conversation at this hour. He could feel the intensity of her gaze, the quiet challenge in her words to reject her now. He was about to reply, words forming on his lips, but he suddenly stopped, his mouth closing with a quiet click. His eyes shifted past her, narrowing slightly as he glanced back toward the window behind him. I dont think Id be able to do that, he said quietly. Amara frowned, tilting her head. Why not? she asked, her brows drawing together. Her lips parted in a low gasp. Do you really not like Its not that, Kai interrupted. He held up a hand, cutting her off mid-sentence. Listen closely. Amara blinked, confused, but she obeyed. At first, there was nothing but the soft rustle of the night breeze brushing against the windowpane. But then, faintly, shouts rang out. Men, womenhe didnt know. But there were shouts. Her eyes widened as she looked back at him. What is that? I believe Were under attack. The words had barely left his mouth when an earth-shaking explosion rocked the entire estate.The walls shook hard, and the floor lurched like it had been hit by a giant hammer. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. PS: Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. Also, it''s free to rate and please download the book if you have Kindle unlimited. It helps with algorithm. We reached 100 ratings in five days! Bonus chapter dropping tomorrow! Read HERE. PSS - If any of you want to watch the book trailer Aethon made for me, please enter my discord server. 198. Invaders More and more shouts echoed through the estate. A thin trail of smoke drifted in through the window, curling ominously. Without wasting a second, Kai flicked his hand, summoning a wind barrier that pushed the smoke away and sealed the room in a protective bubble. Amaras eyes widened and clutched Kais hand, shaken by the sudden chaos outside. Princess. She looked up, bewildered. Its going to be okay. This isnt an attack on us. Though he felt the tremor in her hand relieve, she still looked up with unease, but managed a nod. Whats going on? Kai frowned. We have invaders. That was the most basic explanation he could give. But they arent near this part of the estate yet. Theyre probably after the captured nobles. If they kill them, it could destroy crucial testimoniesand my case will get worse. He grimaced. We had a feeling something like this might happen. Thats why we moved every noble, even Idrin, to the western wing, where we could concentrate more guards. Amara clenched her fists on his arm. But how? With all the security checks in place before anyone can even enter the city? Kai sighed. No system is foolproof, and theres always the chance of hidden ways in. Besides, Id bet good gold were dealing with a mix of Mages among the intruders. His eyes sharpened as he looked at her. Well have to put our conversation on hold until I deal with this. Amara hesitated, then took a breath. Can I come with you? Kai shook his head firmly. Please dont. I wont be able to focus if youre with me. Stay here and hide for now. You know how to cast [Water Bed]? He asked, referring to a second-circle water affinity spell that created a bed of water, which would transform into a cushion when something with weight fell on it. Amara nodded. I do. Good. If anyone makes it to this room, use it to jump out of the window. Its unlikelytheyd have to bypass the wards Ive setbut be careful. She swallowed hard and nodded again. Kai gave her a brief, reassuring look before removing her hands from his gently and turned around, walking towards the window ledge. He knew if he stayed more to cease Amaras worries, the situation outside might escalate. Without looking behind, he jumped as a sharp gust of wind propelled him forward, he launched himself into the night, dropping in with control before using [Flight] to soar toward where all the noise came from. Smoke curled ominously into the sky, and his eyes narrowed as he glided through the air. Below, guards scrambled toward the source of the disturbance, and distant screams echoed through the estate, adding to the chaos. He knew those screams belonged to his own people, and felt every single one of them like a jab to his back. Under his nose, thered been an attack. He couldn''t let it be. He rose higher, flying swiftly toward the western wing. As he approached, he spotted the battle raging in the courtyard. The smoke wasnt coming from any building, thankfullybut from the trees, which had been partially set ablaze. The reason became immediately clear. In the middle of the courtyard, a dozen intruders were locked in combat with the guards. Several of the intruders wielded spells, particularly fire. By the amount of first circle and second circle flaming spells they launched indiscriminately, they looked like they wanted to burn everything down. And since over half of them were Mages, their relentless spell-flinging kept the guards on the defensive. Leading the defense were Killian, Gareth, Bord, and two Mages from the newly established Sorcerers Tower. Kais mana sense flared, analyzing the attackers. Most of them were second-circle Magesbut unlike the ones he had seen in the Archine Tower, these Mages looked to be battle-hardened. Their spells were precise, their coordination tight, and three of them focused solely on maintaining layered defensive barriers. The barriers shimmered with different elemental hues, a translucent blue shield of water magic that rippled with each impact, a sturdy earthen wall reinforced with jagged stone protrusions, and a flickering dome of air that deflected incoming projectiles. Kai didnt waste any more time. He raised a hand and channeled his mana, summoning a blazing fireball. With a swift motion, he hurled it toward the barriers. The fireball struck, giving out a deafening sound, colliding with the layered defenses and causing a violent explosion that rocked the entire courtyard. Dust and smoke filled the air as cracks spiderwebbed across the barriers, and two large holes appeared in the shimmering dome. The enemy Mages looked up, startled, finally realizing that Kai had joined the fray. But before they could regroup, Kai followed up with an [Ice beam]a concentrated blast of freezing energy that shot straight toward the defense Mages. The icy attack hit its mark, freezing two of the Mages in place. Their barriers flickered and collapsed as frost spread rapidly across their bodies. Killian and Bord seized the opportunityshortening the distance between them and cutting down the frozen Mages with swift, lethal strikes. Just then, a crackling bolt of lightning hurtled toward Kai from the left. His reflexes kicked in, and he raised a hand, casting a wind barrier just in time to absorb the strike. The lightning fizzled harmlessly against the swirling wall of air. Kai turned toward the Mage, a middle aged bald man, who had attacked him and smirked. Without hesitation or mercy, he retaliated. Flames roared to life around him. He drew the spell structure in a heart beat for [Flaming Knight] and unleashed, aiming directly at the bald Mage. Sarch* The N?velFire.nt website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. A flaming knight materialized. It was twice as big as the Mage, and wielded a flaming sword. Faceless, the humanoid figure made out of fire was blazing with heat as it charged toward the enemy Mages, aiming to cut him clean in half. But the Mage dodged at the last second, rolling out of the way as two more intruders stepped forward to intercept. Just then, the [Flaming Knight] disappeared, surprising the Mages. Taking the momentary distraction, Kai casted [Wind Blades] that sliced through the air with deadly speed. The attackers scrambled to dodge, but the blades still found their mark, cutting deep gashes into their shoulders and legs. Cries of pain filled the courtyard as they staggered back, their formation crumbling. Taking the chance, guards who were on the defensive before charged right at them, killing them right away. It was clear that with Kais intervention, the tide was shifting in their favor. Because for every other spell that broke the opponents formation, the guards pressed forward. Killian had rightfully trained all those men to fight under pressure, even if their opponents were Mages. Kais hand flew forward, sending a [Gust], taking a Mage out of balance. But before he could do any more, a shout took his attention. Lord Arzan! Killians voice came from his right. Another group of Mages has already moved inside! Bran and Lyra stationed with the nobles are probably holding them off, but they might need your help! Kais eyes narrowed, and he nodded without argument. Killian was right. If the attackers had split their forces, it could mean only one thing: these Mages here were just grunts, meant to distract them while the real threat went after the captured nobles. And if he was right, there was a good chance that whoever was leading the attack was a third circle Mage or worse. None of the Enforcers stationed in the western wing would be able to handle that. As that thought crossed his mind, Kai unleashed a powerful [Gust], knocking down a few more Mages to give the Enforcers some breathing room. The next second, he rose higher in the air. e thought to himself as the enemy numbers dwindled. But his eyes strayed to the massive fire next to them that seemed to be growing more. Without wasting a moment, he imagined a massive block of ice forming just above the burning trees. The spell structure took shape on his palm as he briefly closed his eyes. Inhaling mana from the air, he felt the surge of power rushing through him, leashing forward as the [Ice Block] descended, covering the entire section of trees. The enemy Mages had somehow managed to cause considerable damage. If it continued, every tree in the western wing would be engulfed in flames. Kai extended his hand, casting a second-circle controlled [Flame Blast]. The ice block melted under the blast, releasing a torrential downpour that doused the flames and filled the air with thick smoke. Giving it one last look, he turned and moved away from the courtyard, heading upward toward the second floor. Unfortunately, the windows on the building up to the third floor had been sealed to prevent the captured nobles from escaping and he had even removed the windows from the fourth floor completely, sealing it with cementa precaution Kai had personally ordered. And he also couldn''t blast a wall of the fourth floor to enter in case he injured the nobles or his Enforcers. Hence, he decided to move up from the third floor. The wind from his hand shattered the sealed wooden window, and he slipped inside the castle. As he landed on the floor, his mind moved to think of the attack. Though hed anticipated an attack, he hadnt expected such a large force of Mages to come after the prisoners. Regina must have wanted to deal with the nobles as quickly as possible, but the scale of the assault raised troubling questions. How had such a large group managed to infiltrate the city undetected? A hidden location? Flight magic? Teleportation? Any of those options would require a serious investigation, but that could only come after dealing with the current threatand, if possible, capturing their leader for interrogation. Pushing those thoughts aside, Kai moved swiftly down the corridor, his senses sharp. As he approached the staircase leading to the top floors, where the nobles were being held, he could hear the faint clash of steel and the crackling of spellsevidence that the fighting had already reached that area. But before he could climb the stairs, a blast of force struck his air shield, making it flare with blue light as it absorbed the impact. Kai skidded back a step and snapped his gaze to his right, where two Mages stood waiting. One was as tall as Kai and glared with grey eyes in the same shade as his hair. He had a massive scar on his nose that flared with every breath he took. The other one was taller, and much leaner. He wore thick, serrated stone armor. Kai also noticed the blue, shimmery necklace around his neck. The grey-eyed one had launched the opening attacka surge of water magic that still dripped from his hands. Kai recognized the stone armor on the other Mage immediately, [Stone Body], a second-circle earth aspected spell designed for defense. A quick scan with his mana sense told him all he needed to know. Both were second-circle Mages. Although the spell structures looked a bit rough around the edges, something he was used to by now in the Mages of this era, they both seemed to be battle hardened and had enough time to plan a strategy for him. Two arrogant assholes, thinking that they could take him down. Before Kai could launch a counterattack, the Earth Mage charged toward him, chunks of stone breaking off his armor and flying toward Kai, sharp enough to tear through blood and flesh alike. Kai twisted his hand, summoning a [Gust] to deflect the stones, but the Earth Mage was already closing the distance, slamming a stone-clad fist against Kais shimmering barrier. Kais shield wavered under the impact, small punctures forming in the shimmering surface, but it held firm. Judging by the wide-eyed look on the Earth Mages face, he hadnt expected that. He did what any sane Mage would doseize the opportunity. With the Earth Mage already at close range, he unleashed a [Infernal bolt] straight toward him. In the narrow confines of the corridor, there was no room to dodge. The third circle spell struck the rock armor directly, exploding in a burst of heat and force. The impact sent the Mage hurtling backward, slamming him into the wall and cracking his stone defenses. The grey-eyed Mage sidestepped his flying comrade, his hands already moving to form a new spell structure. Kais mana flared as he recognized the spell, [Flood], a third circle spell. As the name suggested, it was designed to flood any area. If he didn''t do anything soon, the whole corridor was going to be turned into a death trap. He didnt let the latter finish. With a sharp twist of his fingers, he cast [Blizzard], a third-circle spell. It unleashed a strong, freezing wind force that raced down the corridor, freezing everything in its wake. The frost ate the walls and floor at an alarming speed, and before the Water Mage could complete his spell, it engulfed him, freezing his legs, torso and moving upwards. His expression frozeC-literallyCinto one of wide-eyed shock as it trapped him. The Mage struggled, hastily cancelling his spell to cast a [Water Blast] to free himself while the ice spread through his fingers, but it was too late. Kai watched as the water that formed from his spell immediately froze over again, locking him in place. With the man already wasting a lot of mana with the third circle spell that didn''t even make it out of his palm, he didn''t have any mana to do anything now. So, Kai moved to land his final attack. The ice began to melt rapidly, and thick, swirling vapors filled the corridor, turning the air hot and humid in seconds. The Water Mage blinked in confusion, realizing too late what was happening. Kais voice cut through the mist, calm and deadly. Lets finish this. *** Bran frowned as he carefully placed Lyra down on the bed, his heart heavy as he took in the gravity of her wound. Her entire chest was a mess of torn flesh, as though the enemys spell had ripped through her like a beasts claws. Hed fed her every potion he had, but the gash stubbornly refused to close. It wasnt bleeding anymorethat was the only mercy. But it wasnt healing either. It was red, opened and a part of her ribcage was visible. His jaw tightened. He could only hope shed pull through until reinforcements arrived. Not that he was holding his breath. Judging by the chaos ringing through the estate, the reinforcements were going to be a long time coming. The number of enemy Mages that had infiltrated the grounds was far beyond anything theyd expected. Bran figured even Lord Arzanwho was a strong Third Circle Magewould need time to deal with them all. Until then, it was up to him to stall for as long as possible. He cast one last glance at Lyras pale face, then turned around. His gaze shifted to the cluster of nobles huddled in the corner of the room. They were too scared; scared for their lives. Malyr was even hammering at a wall with a small hammer he had found god knows where, trying to break it open with trembling hands. Stop, Bran said, already done with this entire thing. But Malyr ignored him, his fingers driven with pure desperation, scratching at the unyielding glass. Bran sighed. Even if by some miracle he was able to break the well, he would plummet to his death and even if he survived, there were a lot of Mages outside, ready with their spells to incinerate him. Bran gave a final glance at Lyra, her eyes now closed but he knew she was breathing. Dont worry, he said quietly. And don''t dare die on me. I don''t need that on my conscience. Without waiting for a reply, he stepped out of the room and shut the door behind him. He turned and immediately took in the Mage standing at the end of the corridor. The man exuded danger. His dark robes were embroidered with unfamiliar symbols that seemed to pulse faintly with mana, and there was a predatory gleam in his eyes as he toyed with the three guard golems that were tryingand failingto subdue him. Balens golems had been crafted to protect the castle and its inhabitants, each one standing over seven feet tall, forged with glowing cores embedded in their chests. But right now, they were losing. One of the golems already had a gaping hole in its chest where its core had been shattered, and it was barely standing, its movements jerky and sluggish as though its legs might give out at any moment. Pieces of its armor were scattered across the floor, along with one of its arms, which had been ripped clean off. The other two were faring slightly better, but not by much. They were trying to close in on the enemy Mage, their massive fists swinging with enough force to crack stone. But the Mage was fast. Too fast. Bran narrowed his eyes, focusing on the swirling black energy that coated the Mages hands like a liquid fog. It wasnt an element he recognized. Every time the golems moved in to strike, the Mage unleashed tendrils of something dark that slithered through the air like living whips, slicing through golems with ease and keeping the constructs at bay. Bran clenched his fists. He had a bad feeling about this. The Mage fought like a shadow came to life, his dark robes flowing unnaturally as if caught in a breeze no one else could feel. Bran could make out pale, angular features; long dark hair tied to his back, pointed nose, and a scar on his forehead. And the symbols glowed faintly along his sleeves again, pulsing in time with the eerie black fog that drifted around his hands like coiling serpents. As the Mages spell structure flared to life in front of him, his eyes caught the formation of several spears made entirely of darkness. The golems moved to dodge, but the spears changed trajectory midair, curving like hunting beasts. One spear slammed into the already damaged golem, severing its remaining arm and sending it stumbling backward with a groan of stressed metal. Bran tightened his grip on his sword and rushed forward knowing there would be no better time to join the fight, his mana flaring to life as thick plates of stone began forming over his body. They spread across his arms, chest, and legs, creating a heavy, rock-like armor that weighed him downbut after months of hardcore training, he barely noticed the added burden. When hed first gained his affinity, it had been a struggle just to cover a single limb with stone. Now, he could coat his entire body in it easily. As Bran charged, the Mage finally seemed to take notice. He turned his head slightly, a smirk curling his lips. Youll die, just like that little ice girl, he said. Brans anger flared. He launched forward. He was almost upon the Mage when the man raised his hand and conjured another spear of darkness directly in front of him. Bran swung his sword in a wide arc, aiming to deflect the spear, but before he could land a hit, the remaining golemstill mostly intactlunged at the Mage from the side, its massive sword slicing through the air with enough force to cleave a man in two. The Mage reacted without hesitation. He lifted his other arm, and a second spell structure flared to life around his hand. In an instant, he conjured a swirling sphere of shadows and thrust it forward, slamming it into the golems chest before the constructs blade could connect. The effect was immediateand devastating. The sphere seemed to pulse once, then explode outward in a shockwave of dark energy. The golem shattered into pieces, its metal limbs and core flying apart as if it had been torn from within. Bran barely had time to throw up his arms as several chunks of debris slammed into his rock armor, causing him to stagger back. His eyes widened in shock. The golem it had been obliterated in an instant. The Mage turned toward Bran, his smirk deepening. It was a fun little fight, he said casually, as though they were sparring and not fighting for their lives. But as you can see, our strength levels are entirely differenteven if you can use a bit of magic. His eyes glinted darkly. Now lets end this. With a flick of his wrist, the Mage summoned more spell structures around him, and Brans heart sank as he saw what was coming. Tens of spears materialized in the air, hovering around the Mage like a deadly storm of black missiles. Then, with a sharp motion, he sent them hurtling toward Bran. There was no way he could dodge them all. He raised his sword desperately, blocking the first spear as it streaked toward him, the impact jarring his entire arm. More spears followed, slamming into his rock armor with brutal force. Cracks began to spider web across the stone, and Bran gritted his teeth, forcing more mana into the armor to reinforce itbut it wasnt enough. The spears kept coming, and he could feel the stone starting to give way. If he stayed where he was, hed be punctured all over, left bleeding out on the cold stone floor. Realizing he had no other choice, Bran gritted his teeth, adjusted his grip on his sword, and did the only thing he could think of. He charged. If he was going down, he was going down fighting. He ducked and weaved as the spears of darkness hurtled toward him, each one barely missing him by a hair''s breadth. His breathing was ragged, and his rock armor cracked further with every close call, but he kept moving, refusing to stop. He wasnt going to die here. Not yet. The Mage watched him with an irritated expression, clicking his tongue in annoyance. Youre suicidal, he sneered, raising his hand to form that terrifying sphere of darkness once more. It swirled ominously in his palm as he stepped forward and launched it straight at Bran. Bran dodged to the side, grunting as the sphere grazed his arm, only slightly burning his skin. His sword came down to slice the Mage in his arm. And he expected to feel the tearing, burning pain of his flesh cutting but instead, there was nothing. He looked down in confusion and noticed something faintly shimmering around the Mages bodya transparent, almost invisible layer of protection. He hadnt even realized it was there. The Mage narrowed his eyes, noticing Brans surprise. Rookie mistake, he said with a mocking chuckle. Before Bran could recover, the Mage surged forward, aiming to slam the sphere directly into his chest. Bran saw it coming, but there was no time to dodge. He braced himself, closing his eyes and waiting for the impact that would end him. This was it. This was how he would die. He didnt even get time to have his final moment. He waitedand waited. But it never came. A sharp crack echoed through the corridor and he opened his eyes, and suddenly, the Mages arm jerked backward as something wrapped tightly around ita whip, shimmering with energy. The Mage hissed in surprise, yanking at his arm, but the whip held fast. And then, Bran heard the voice he had desperately been waiting to hear. It took longer than I expected to deal with your minions. Lord Arzan. A wave of relief washed over Bran. He wouldnt die, not when his lord was right there. Lord Arzan stepped into the corridor calmlytoo calmly, his robes fluttering around him. But it seems like I arrived just in time. Lord Arzan cocked his head sideways, studying the Mage as Bran took the opportunity to step back, knowing his fight was over. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. PS: Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. Also, it''s free to rate and please download the book if you have Kindle unlimited. It helps with algorithm. We reached 100 ratings in five days! Bonus chapter dropping tomorrow! Read HERE. PSS - If any of you want to watch the book trailer Aethon made for me, please enter my discord server. 200. A Princess’ favour It took time to settle everything after the attack. Cleaning up the mess and calming the nobles nerves took hours in itself. They were rattledmore than Kai expectedand annoyingly oblivious to the fact that hed just saved them. Instead of gratitude, they demanded better security measures, which, in fairness, he could get behind if only they had been more civil about it. Still, the reality had finally sunk in for them. Their lives were in danger. Kai hadnt been bluffing before, and now they understood that there were powers actively trying to eliminate them before the assembly. That realization left them far more shaken than hed anticipated, likely because none of them were Mages. They were completely dependent on Kai to survive, and though he didnt care much for them personally, he knew theyd be important in the future. So, he ensured additional Enforcers would be guarding them from now on, then moved on to a more pressing issuefinding out where the Mages had come from. There were several ways those Mages could have infiltrated the city, especially with a third-circle Shadow Mage among them. They might have traveled to the edge of the Sylvan Enclave and teleported inside, but with the number of Mages involved, Kai figured that wouldve required far more effort and preparation. He leaned instead toward the possibility of a large-scale teleportation circle, likely with its destination set to Veralt. But that type of spell wasnt easy to pull off. Beyond the massive amount of mana it would take, the ritual circle would need to exist in both locations. That was why, first thing in the morning, Kai mobilized the Watchers, sending them out across the city to search for any sign of such a circle. A large-scale teleportation array was bound to attract some attention, and he was confident theyd find a clue soon enough. Having a circle like that hidden somewhere in the city made him uneasy. It felt like a knife hovering over his neck, and it left him restless. But his options were limited. Finding the circle was only the first step. Tracking down whoever had created it was far more critical, as they could have other spies hidden within the city. Fortunately, everyone who had entered through the gates had been carefully documented. Now, he could only hope that the Watchers would uncover some useful leadsand fast. By the time he had finished giving orders and handling the aftermath of the attack, the sun was already rising. He had lost an entire nights sleep, but he didnt head to bed. Instead, he decided to keep the commitment hed made the night beforea breakfast with Princess Amara. It wasnt just about the promise, though. He genuinely wanted to check on her after everything that had happened. The explosions, the threat to the castlehe knew shed be shaken. And there was something else on his mind, something he had been meaning to discuss with her for a while. When he entered the dining hall, Amara was already seated at the table. The maids quickly finished placing the food and quietly excused themselves, leaving the two of them alone. That was when he noticed how she was staring at him, scanning his face and even trailing over his body as if seeing for some hidden injury. Her worry was plain to see. And she was being completely transparent about it. Kai shook his head, offering a small, reassuring smile. Im not injured, Princess. Last night wasnt easy, but it wasnt like I was fighting another blood drinker lord. I managed to deal with the Mages that attacked us. Still, Amara said softly, her voice tight with concern, I heard all the explosions. I actually thought something might happen to you. The small swallow in her throat explained everything on her worry that seemed to have persisted from last night. And as you can see, Kai replied with a faint smirk, gesturing at the food in front of him, Im fine. Sitting here, eating breakfast right in front of you. He picked up a piece of meat and took a bite, chewing thoughtfully while watching her. He could still see the tension in her eyes, and he decided it was time to shift the conversation away from the attack. So, he said, after swallowing, you wanted to talk to me before, right? Sorry Ive been so busy lately. Amara waved a hand dismissively. Its okay. I understand. Youre a Count and you have so many duties to handle. I would offer to help, but I have no experience managing a large territoryor any territory, for that matter. Kai leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table. Thats true. But you could still help me in other ways. Amara tilted her head, curious. How? S~ea??h the novel(F~)ire.net website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Have you heard about the assembly? Kai asked. She nodded. Anya makes sure Im updated on everything thats happening. After all, I cant exactly leave the castle, especially after the attack. What about it? Kai leaned back in his chair, letting out a quiet sigh before speaking. As you know, to win the judgment in the assembly, truth doesnt matter as much as support. Ive already started building some of itmessengers have been sent to Duke Blackwood to rally him to my cause. He paused. But I dont think that alone will be enough. Amara stilled, her fork suspended midair as she processed his words. Her eyes sharpened slightly, catching the subtle hint of what he was implying. Slowly, she set her fork down and tilted her head. You want me to gather support for you. Kai gave a slow nod. Yes. Every faction in the kingdom revolves around a princeyour brothers. None of them are going to support me, not unless I agree to become one of their dogs. His voice hardened on the last word, the disdain evident. So, I need to create my own faction. I need enough backing in the Assembly to hold my ground. And aside from Duke Blackwood, who I believe will support me, youre the only person with enough influence to truly help. Amara let out a soft sigh and resumed eating, though there was a pensive look on her face. After a moment she shook her head. I wasnt expecting such serious talk over breakfast today. Kai frowned. Sorry, I didnt mean to No, its okay, she interrupted, raising a hand to stop him. I get it. Things are dire, and theres no time to relax. Im aware enough to understand the severity of the situation. But Im not sure how much I can help you. She leaned back, her fingers tracing the rim of her glass absentmindedly. You probably already know this, but I dont have much pull. I always lived under my mothers thumb, and she never allowed me to break away. Most nobles still assume Im allied with my brother. And after being absent from the capital for the past few months I dont even know how people see me anymore. Kai regarded her carefully, then leaned forward slightly. If youre willing, maybe its time to break away from your mother. Amara blinked, probably surprised by his bluntness. But there was no other way to phrase it. If he was going to ask for her help, he needed to be straightforward. Youre not the same anymore, he continued. Youre not a princess who needs chemicals just to function. Youre a Mage now. And like Ive seen with my own eyes, your condition has recovered. Amaras lips pressed together, and she gave a small nod. Thats true Her Mana heartthe shattered core that had left her fragile and dependent on alchemical potionswas already a thing of the past. Ever since Kai had healed her, she had grown stronger, healthier, with each passing day. And she had started to change. She was more than surviving. She was learning. She had begun actively studying magic again, and though she hadnt spoken about it much, Kai could sense her progress. By his estimation, she was already approaching the second circle. She had been quietly applying the methods he had given her, and the results were starting to show. Your absence from the capital wont mean anything if you return completely healed. I had planned to keep my mana surgery methods hidden for now, but maybe its better to let at least some rumors spread. Nobles are curious, and rumors tend to grow on their own. Theres no harm in that. Amaras lips pressed together as she mulled it over, her brows furrowing in thought. After a few moments, she sighed softly. But I dont have any experience with nobles. Ive seen them, met them. Theyre opportunistic, never satisfied. Even the good ones. I dont know how to deal with people like that. She hesitated, her gaze dropping slightly. I was never anything more than a showpiece at the balls I attended. Just a princess on display. Thats what my mother told me. Her voice wavered at the end. I have no real power. Kais eyes narrowed as he observed her, wondering just how deep her trauma ran. He had known it was badher astral realm had made that painfully clear. Regina had been the largest and most menacing wraith in Amaras subconscious, towering over everything else. But just how far had that abuse gone? Verbal? Physical? Or perhaps something even worse. His jaw tightened as a quiet surge of anger burned in his chest. He hated Regina already, but the more he uncovered, the deeper that hatred grew. Not solely because of Amara, but for who Regina was. There were plenty of evil people in the worldsome who were cruel to others but still cared for their families. And then there were people like Regina, who only worked for themselves, treating everyone, even their own children, as pawns in their endless game. He restrained a sigh at the disappointment that crept up to him and looked at her gently. Youre stronger than you think. And honestly, handling nobles isnt as difficult as it seems. Theyre simple-minded in their own way. Opportunistic people are easy to predict. Like? Take Malden, for example, Kai explained. Hes opportunistic. But he knows that staying in my favor is in his best interest, so hes always been on my side. Thats the kind of mindset youll be dealing with. She considered it while tapping the rim of her glass. And what exactly do you want me to do? I dont want you to go after the nobles with power, Kai clarified. I want you to focus on the ones who are looking power. These are the people who wont dare scheme against someone from the royal family. Theyll just want to extract as much benefit as they can. And thats where we have the advantage. Amara tilted her head. What kind of benefits could I possibly offer them? Kai smiled slightly. You have royal blood. That alone is a huge draw. Just by talking to them and inviting them into our faction, youd be raising their standing. And for more practical benefits well, youre at the very center of all the major events in the kingdom. Im sure you can think of ways to leverage that. And dont forgetits faction. Ill make sure we can throw in a little wealth here and there to sweeten the deal. Amara nodded slowly, her eyes thoughtful as she started to grasp the idea. She wasnt entirely convinced yet, but Kai could tell she was beginning to come around. He also knew that this wouldnt be an easy path for her. People didnt just break out of their shells and transform overnight, no matter how many pep talks they got. But if anyone could do it It would be Amara. Even if Amara had been little more than a showcase in the palace, he knew that shed still gained valuable experience simply by living there. Shed observed and interacted with nobles, absorbed palace politics, and endured the shadow games that had shaped her life. Those experiences could be leveraged to help him. As he was lost in thought, Amara broke the silence. Her voice was quiet, almost hesitant. My mother what about her? You dont need to worry about her, he said firmly. Ill send Enforcers with you for protection. And as long as youre inside the palace, I dont think shell be able to do much. Not with you being a Mage now. She has influence, yes, but she prefers to work from the shadows. She wont risk exposing herself by doing something overt, especially if we stay cautious. He leaned forward, his eyes locking onto hers. Her lips parted for the briefest moment, but she composed herself quickly. Kai simply looked at her eyes. Im not going to let any harm befall you, Princess. Whatever you do in the capital, itll be discreet, and Ill make sure youre protected. Besides, right now, her attention is focused on me and maybe Duke Blackwood. If again were careful, she wont even realize whats happened until its too late. By the time the assembly comes around, youll already be in position. Amara blinked, and for some reason, her face flushed slightly as he finished speaking. Kai had no idea which part of his speech had caused it, but it didnt seem to be a negative reactionwhich was definitely a good sign. She glanced down at her plate, picked at her food for a moment, and then said, Youve really been thinking about this, havent you? You already had all the points ready. I had to. If it were up to me, Id ignore the assembly and all the politics entirely. But what Im doing it needs people. A lot more than the ones I have in my territory right now. And to get them, I need to stay in the kingdoms good graces. Either way, the kingdoms heading toward turmoil soon. The successions bound to cause chaos, and Id rather be prepared. He paused, biting into the meat and chewing it. Once he swallowed, he looked up, noticing how she was already looking at him. So what do you think? I wasnt planning to leave Veralt for a while. It felt like home. For the first time in a long time. But I understand that Ill be able to accomplish much more in the capital. She leaned back slightly, a small, sly smile curving her lips. But youll have to give me something in return. Kai blinked, caught off guard. His mind immediately raced, wondering what she could possibly want. Whatever it was, he figured hed just agree and deal with it later. But the words that came out of Amaras mouth left him completely speechless. Ill leave next week, she said, raising both her eyebrows. Until then lets have breakfast together. Every day. Kai opened his mouth to respondand nothing came out. He wasnt sure what hed expected her to ask for, but hadnt been it. For once, he had no witty remark, no strategic comeback. *** A/N - You can read 30 chapters (15 Magus Reborn and 15 Dao of money) on my patreon. Annual subscription is now on too. Read 15 chapters ahead HERE. Join the discord server HERE. PS: Book 1 is officially launched! If youre on Kindle Unlimited, you can read it for freeand even if youre not buying, a quick rating helps more than you think. Also, it''s free to rate and please download the book if you have Kindle unlimited. It helps with algorithm. We reached 100 ratings in five days! Bonus chapter is here! Read HERE. PSS - If any of you want to watch the book trailer Aethon made for me, please enter my discord server. 199. Assassin Killer Kai knew from the sheer strength of the Mages attacking the estate that their leader had to be someone in the same circle as him. But what he hadnt expected was for the man to have a Shadow affinity. That revelation, however, explained a lot. Shadow spells werent just destructivethey were notoriously good for sneaking around unnoticed. And getting so many Mages inside the city undetected wouldve drained the mans mana reserves. He mustve been lying low here for days, slowly replenishing his energy before launching the attack. Not that it would matter for long. Kai would confirm that once he captured him. Seeing him appear, the Shadow Mage paused, momentarily distracted, giving Bran just enough time to back off. I was hoping to finish off the nobles before you arrived, the man said with a sigh. My men are really trash. They are, Kai agreed without hesitation. Theyve got battle training, but not much experience. I really wonder if youre any different. The man tilted his head, a smirk forming on his lips. Youll find out soon enough. He stepped forward. My name is Erling. Remember it. I want you to know the name of the man who kills you. Confidence was practically oozing out of him. Kai shrugged, meeting Erlings dark gaze with a calm that bordered on disinterest. Lots of people have said the same thing. A lot. Without any more words, the battle began. He felt the surge of mana from Erling instantlyhuge, overwhelming, and far more dangerous than the other Mages. His mind raced as he quickly summarized his next move. Unlike before, this wasnt just about defeating the enemy. It was about location. If he fought Erling here, within the estate walls, their battle could easily destroy everythingand everyonehe was trying to protect. He needed to get the man out of the estate. Fast. As spears of void shot out of the Mages palm, Kai countered swiftly, containing them with his wind spells. The sharp crackle of dissipating mana filled the air as the spears broke apart, unable to pierce through his barrier. The Mage smiled at the display, his eyes gleaming with amusement. Not bad, he said, launching another volley of attacks, this time with more force and speed, holding nothing back. Kai moved fluidly, dodging each attack with precision while using [Mana chains]. Bands of shimmering mana shot toward the Mage, binding him in place with chains made up of pure mana. Erling gritted his teeth, struggling to break free as Kai poured more power into the restraints. Without wasting a moment, he propelled himself forward, slamming into the Mage with enough force to smash him through the nearest wall. The crash was deafening. Erlings body hit the ground hard, sliding through the wreckage before coming to a stop. For a brief moment, Kai caught a glimpse of terrified nobles peeking from behind the furniture, their faces pale with fear. But there was no time to linger. He needed to get the battle away from themand fast. Before Erling could fully recover, Kai flew in and smashed him through another wall, driving him farther and farther until they finally burst outside, into the left side of the estate. Gasping for breath, Erling finally wrenched himself free of the restraints, shaking off his hands and sent more spears to distract Kai who dodged. He wiped blood from the corner of his mouth, his eyes darkening. Half of his mana shield seemed to have broken in the assault, but parts of it were still standing, giving a faint glow around him. I see what youre trying to do, he said coldly, dusting himself off. But it wont matter. Once I deal with you, Ill kill them all anyway. Kai narrowed his eyes. You talk too much. Without waiting for a reply, they launched into battle again. Kai immediately noticed somethingErling wasnt just strong; he was a dual caster, weaving two spells at once with impressive speed as he launched attacks while keeping himself up in the air. But Kai also knew that maintaining flight with void spells burned through mana far faster than his own wind-based flight, putting the Mage at a disadvantage. And Kai had another edgehe could triple-cast. The Mage seemed to realize this as Kai relentlessly flung alternating [Flame arrows] and [Ice shards] at him, forcing him on the defensive. Void magic burst around them in short, unpredictable teleportations as the Mage tried to disorient Kai, sending attacks from different angles in rapid succession. But Kai spread his mana perception outward, sharpening his senses until he could track the Mages every move. No matter how fast or erratic the teleportations, he wasnt letting him out of his sight. With a flick of his wrist, Kai summoned a flaming tornado right above Erling. The spiraling inferno roared to life, taking a massive amount of debris particles with it, and Erling teleported away just in timebut the tornado wasnt done. It twisted and surged after him, homing in on his location like a predator hunting its prey. Seeing the opening, Kai unleashed another wave of attacks. Jagged spikes of ice hurtled toward Erling who was now struggling to avoid both the flaming tornado and the incoming ice while simultaneously trying to keep himself in the air. Kai drove him toward a trap, creating multiple freezing nine feet tall walls in Erlings path, narrowing the space he could teleport to. The Mage was running out of options. And Kai knew it. In the end, Erling couldnt avoid it. Trapped by the ice walls, the flaming tornado engulfed him, roaring like a beast as it tore through the air. Kai watched as the mans body was hurled downward, crashing hard into the ground below. A thick mist spread across the tornado, its fiery heat clashing with the remnants of his ice wall. Kai wasted no time. He shot toward the crater, a spell crackling in his palm, ready to strike if the man was still alive and capable of launching another attack. As he flew through the swirling mist, his gaze darted around the impact zonebut the Void Mages body wasnt there. A sudden shift in mana happened around him. Kais instincts screamed at him, and he spun around just in time to see Erling reappear behind him, his hand glowing with dangerous, pulsing energya burst attack aimed straight at Kais chest. Without hesitation, Kai unleashed his prepared spella fourth circle [Tempest Blade] draining most of the reserves of his mana. The spell cut clean through the mans arm before he could land the blow, too fast for him to counter. Blood sprayed through the air as the severed limb dropped to the ground, and Erling let out a howl of pain, staggering backward. Kai didnt give him a chance to recover. He shot forward, binding the injured Mage with [Infernal chains]. Dark flaming chains erupted out of the ground, snapping tightly around him, locking him in place. Even then, Erling didnt seem like he was done. Gritting his teeth, he tried to lift his other hand, gathering mana for another spell. Kais eyes darkened. He raised his hand, and a [Wind Blade] tore through the air, severing the Mages remaining arm. Erling screamed again, collapsing to his knees. Blood poured from his wounds, and his defenses, already weakened, had crumbled entirely. Kai hovered above him. You arent bad. Double casting, decent skill, and enough power to cause real damage. He tilted his head slightly. But youre too slow. You take too much time to cast your spellsand youre too proud of your techniques. You thought no one could counter you. He crouched slightly, leveling a cold gaze at the defeated Mage. Now, why dont you tell me who sent you? Was it Veridia? Or Regina? I know it was herbut I want confirmation. He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. Ill make your death swift if you give me the answers I need. The man didnt answer. He just growled low, his teeth bared in defiance despite the agony wracking his body. Blood dripped from his severed arms, pooling beneath him, but it didnt dim the hatred in his eyes as he glared up at Kai with pure malice. Kais gaze sharpened as he suddenly felt a surge of mana gathering deep within the mans chestdangerously close to his heart. His breath hitched. Was it possible Erling had been infected with the same insidious spell that had plagued others before? But before he could investigate further, the mans growl twisted into a screama high-pitched, agonized wail that grew louder and louder until it curdled the air around them. Kais eyes widened as realization slammed into him. He knew this sound. He knew what was happening. Damn it, he hissed, leaping backward into the air. Mana flared wildly around him as he cast twin shieldsa barrier of roaring flames and another of slicing winds. He barely had time to brace himself before A massive explosion erupted from where Erling had knelt, sending shockwaves ripping through the clearing. The force of it blasted Kai backward, slamming him into the trees with enough power to crack their trunks. Leaves rained down around him as a roar echoed through the forest. His shields held. Barely. They absorbed the worst of the blast, sparing him from serious injury, but he still felt the impact deep in his bones as he was thrown several feet away, skidding across the scorched ground. When the shockwave finally subsided, Kai groaned and pushed himself to his feet, wincing as he rolled his stiff shoulders. His ears were ringing, and the air was thick with the acrid stench of burnt earth and charred flesh. He wiped some dust off his face and slowly moved toward the site of the explosion. The ground had been obliterated, leaving a deep, blackened crater where Erling had just been. Trees had been ripped apart, their splintered remains scattered like broken matchsticks. Everythingplants, rocks, even the very soilhad been blasted away. Kai exhaled slowly, grateful that he''d managed to move the fight away from the estate. If that explosion had gone off any closer, the nobles inside would have been turned to ash. As he approached the center of the blast, he saw what little remained of the Void Mage. Pieces of flesh and streaks of blood were splattered across the ground, but there was no sign of the mans body. Hed been completely obliterated. Kais jaw tightened, and he grit his teeth in frustration. Regina, he muttered darkly. Youre really meticulous, arent you? He knew exactly what spell the Mage had used. It was a rare and brutal techniquea self-destruction spell cast on ones own body before a battle. Once activated, it only needed a tiny trickle of mana to trigger, and when it did, it would detonate the casters body in a violent explosion, taking anyone nearby along with them. It was the kind of spell used by desperate soldiers or fanatics determined to drag their enemies into the afterlife. But seeing it here, on a high circle Mage, was unexpected. Even if hed suspected it, stopping it wouldve been next to impossible without far greater skillor without killing Erling before he had a chance to activate it. Kai sighed, running a hand through his hair as he surveyed the destruction. No body, no answers, he muttered. He could only hope that one of his subordinates had survived his Enforcers and gotten captured. Though, if their leader had been prepared with such a deadly escape mechanism, he doubted the others wouldnt have similar fail-safes. How far was Regina willing to go to achieve her goal? A third-circle Mage was no ordinary combatant. Even among those with significant mana pools, it was rare to see someone reach that level of strength. Awakening a Mana heart wasnt something that could be done by anyone in this era. It required wealth, resources, and, most often, noble blood. To throw away someone like that in an assassination attemptjust to kill a few nobleswas extreme. Even for her. Kais musings were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps approaching from the forest. He turned toward the noise and soon spotted a group of Enforcers and guards, led by none other than Killian. He seemed to be largely injured by his stride, though his armour was stained with blood. Killians stoic face brightened when he saw Kai, visibly relieved to see him standing there, battered but still in one piece. Lord Arzan! Are you alright? What happened here? Im fine. The Mage I was fighting didnt see any way to win, so he used a self-destruction spell, he explained, gesturing toward the smoldering crater. Tried to take me with him. Killian grimaced, his eyes narrowing as he took in the devastation. Bastard, he muttered under his breath. And on our side? Is anyone still alive? Kais lips pressed into a thin line as he watched Killian shake his head grimly. We tried, Killian said, his voice low with regret. We really did. We aimed to capture at least a few alive, but they werent easy opponents. Most of them fought to the death. One of themwe almost had himbut he had poison hidden in his mouth. Bit down on it before we could stop him. Kai sighed, his expression turning dispirited as he processed the report. I suspected as much, he murmured. Its likely they werent ordinary Mages from Archine Tower after all. More likely, they were trained assassins. Killians brow furrowed. Why do you think that? Kai rubbed the dust off of his sleeves. First of all, he began, two weeks ago, Jacks sent us a list of all known third-circle Mages associated with Archine Tower. There was no mention of a shadow-affinity Mage on that list. Jacks, who had taken up the offer to become a spy in the Archine Tower, had been sending continuous information. They werent anything serious to act onsimply names of mages, their specializations, and rumors about them. But they were helpful. Kai read through every single piece of information Jacks sent and identified the strength of the organization he was bound to go against. Unfortunately, the Mages hed fought tonight werent on that list. That meant either Jacks had missed them, or the Mages were not registered in the tower. At the moment, he had all the more reasons to lean toward the latter. So, you think they were trained outside the tower? Sar?h the ovelFire.et website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality. Its possible. Its easy to erase records or never officially enroll them in the tower at all. Train them in some hidden facility instead. Or they might just be from some other kingdom. Killian scratched his jaw. They did speak Common, though. Sounded like a Lancephil accent. That doesnt rule it out, Kai replied. Accent is easy to change. Even magic can do it. Well know more once we examine the bodies. Mages usually carry something that can help us identify thema talisman, insignia, or notes. Something. Kais sharp gaze shifted toward the guards and Enforcers standing nearby. Straightening, he addressed them with quiet authority. Gather a small team with potions and bandages and check up on Bran and the nobles. I remember Lyra was sent to support him, but I didnt see her after the battle. She might be more injured and need immediate care. Dont delayget them patched up. I am guessing you all already drowned your potions, so focus on the others for now. The guards nodded in unison, immediately splitting off to organize the small medical team. They headed toward the estate where Bran and the nobles were. As they left, Kai glanced at Killian, who gave him a silent nod, already understanding what needed to be done next. Together, they walked toward the area where the bodies of the Mages lay sprawled across the ground, remnants of the fierce battle between them, Killian and his Enforcers. The smell of blood and burned mana hung thick in the air, and the ground was littered with broken weapons and scorched earth. Kai knelt by the first body, carefully examining it. The man was clad in leather armor that looked surprisingly durablethicker and sturdier than most standard Mage gear. As Kai ran his fingers along the material, he realized it wasnt something he recognized. Beast hide, maybe, he murmured to himself. But from what creature? He pushed the thought aside for now and continued searching the body. He found a wand tucked inside the assassins belt, along with a couple of mana potions and a short, curved blade. Nothing unusual so far. Moving systematically, Kai removed the assassins leather armor, exposing his bare arms. And thats when he noticed it. A mark, carved directly into the mans flesh. It was shaped like a wolf, its fangs bared, with uneven lines etched around it. The carving wasnt decorativeit looked deliberate, almost ritualistic. Killian, Kai called, his tone sharp. Killian, who had been examining another body, quickly walked over. What is it? Look at this. Kai pointed to the mark on the assassins arm. See if the others have it too. Killians eyes narrowed as he crouched to get a better look. Without a word, he moved to the nearest body and began checking. One by one, he and Kai inspected the fallen assassinsand, just as Kai had suspected, every single one of them had the same mark. Killian leaned back on his heels, frowning deeply. You recognize it? Kai asked. Killian shook his head. No. Ive seen wolf marks beforesome smaller factions use thembut this design is different. More vicious. Well need to send it to Ansel. He might be able to dig up more information on it. Killian grimaced. You think it confirms what we thought? Yes. These Mages dont belong to Archine Tower. Theyre part of another organization. And if thats the case, it means Reginas reach goes deeper than we thought. Maybe from Maleficia directly, but they didn''t use dead mana. Killian cursed under his breath. Hidden assassins, secret training What the hell is she planning? Kai didnt answer right away. His gaze lingered on the wolf mark, unease coiling in his chest. Whatever this organization was, it wasnt one he had prepared forand that made it all the more dangerous. He briefly recalled Shakrans wordshow Regina had entire legions under her control, stretching far beyond the influence she had in the Archine Tower. It made sense now why things had been escalating so quickly. Kais gut told him there was more to Reginas forces than just what he had faced tonight. He needed to know the numbers, the full extent of her reach. Without that, every step he took would be a reaction to her next move. He exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders not quite easing as he glanced back down at the wolf mark. He could only hope that Ansel would find something useful from itsome piece of the puzzle that could give him a clearer idea of Reginas operations. But for now, there was something more pressing to handle. Even through the stillness of the night, Kai could hear the distant murmur of voices from the citythe citizens roused from their sleep by the explosion, their fears spreading quickly through the streets. The last thing he needed was for the attack of the Mages to lead to panic in the city. Turning to Killian, he spoke. Make copies of these marks and spread them around to Ansel. Send him drawings of their faces too. As for the public, well tell the city they were thieves who accidentally stumbled upon one of the mana cannons, triggering the explosion. No mention of assassins or the marks to the publickeep it quiet. We cant afford unrest in the city. Killian nodded. Ill get it done, Lord Arzan. Dont let this get out of hand, Kai muttered under his breath, before turning his attention back to the battle-torn battlefield. The explosion had left behind nothing but scorched earth and mangled bodies. But it wasnt just the damage that weighed on himit was the knowledge that Regina was pulling strings from the shadows, and he had no idea what the end game was. Killians steps faded as he moved to carry out his orders. And Kai stood up from his crouched position, his head heavy with thoughtsone after another. *** Bonus chapter incoming!