《Timeless Traveler》 1. In the Talladom Kingdom A group of merchants and their escort departed from Southall, heading towards Castlecrest, a renowned hub of commerce. Their caravan was laden with weapons, farming and mining tools, and other goods. After assessing their surroundings, the head of the escort dropped his belongings and announced: ¡°This is a perfect spot to camp for the night.¡± They arrived at a clearing nestled between a mountainside, a forest, and a river ¡ª a well-known landmark for its safety. This location, favored by travelers, provided a secure resting place with ample natural resources, including fresh water from the river and wood from the forest, making it an ideal overnight stop. They began setting up the tents while some gathered wood for the fire. They gathered in a circle once the flames were kindled, sharing bread and dried meat. A chilling wind descended from the mountain, hunting like a predator. The merchants and their guards braced for the night. ¡°A ghost must haunt this place,¡± one guard remarked attuned to the strange wind. ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s a demon,¡± another speculated. ¡°There have been no demon sightings in this region,¡± the captain of the guards interjected, surveying the encircling stones. A figure cloaked in a tattered hood emerged from the adjacent woods. The guards stood to attention, their guns ready to attack the individual if needed. ¡°Identify yourself!¡± the guard demanded in a gruff voice. The hooded figure stopped and faced the group. ¡°I am only a traveler seeking refuge,¡± he said confidently. The head of the guards eyed him with suspicion. This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source. ¡°We have no food for strangers, but you may share our fire,¡± the captain offered. The stranger nodded and sat down beside the fire. The merchants continued to chat noisily among themselves while the newcomer remained silent, staring absently at the dwindling flames. As night fell, they settled down to sleep. ¡°The escort leader has warned us to stay alert; he could be dangerous.¡± ¡°Yes, captain!¡± the guards responded in unison. The unknown man, later, gave out a sound signal, a short whistle followed by a wolf-like sound. A group of masked, armed bandits appeared. ¡°Whoever surrenders will remain alive,¡± said one of them. The captain and his men watched in bewilderment with weapons in hand, ready to defend the camp. The merchants saw the difference in forces and most preferred to surrender. The first volley of arrows hit a guard in the neck. The man fell dead to the ground. The escort commander tried to fight. He pulled out his sword and rushed towards the nearest robbers. They fired, and the warrior fell to the ground, bleeding from a deep wound to his shoulder. The attackers killed several guards and brought the others to their knees. They tied the wrists of all the surviving members of the group with ropes. Then, by the light of the fire, they gathered all the goods they wanted. They placed the escort leader aside and tied him tightly. ¡°Make room!¡± came a female voice. There was silence and in front stepped Syberta, their leader, a warrior woman with short hair, clad in leather armor and armed with a bow and two knives.¡± She approached the prisoner¡¯s face. ¡°Are you the bastard who walks around with a bunch of bare elbows bragging he¡¯s going to kill me?¡± The head of the escort wanted to say something but he didn¡¯t have time. With a surprising move, Syberta knocked him out of breath with the whip in her right hand. She was walking around the makeshift camp when she heard a noise from a tent; she readied herself with a knife, went inside the tent, and crept cautiously out. She wasn¡¯t alone. She carried a small child in her arms. ¡°From now on, this is my baby,¡± she said as she looked up at the sky, saw the strange color of the moon, and continued. ¡°He will be called Kaer, which in the ancient language of our tribe means The Keeper.¡± The attackers left the merchants alive, loaded the goods into their carts with perfect coordination, and left. 2. Attack on Sybertas Bandits They traveled four days deep into the Hodgewild Forest, where few dared to go because those who tried never returned. The settlement of these predatory bandits was well-hidden and guarded. The dense forest helped them be as discreet as possible, integrating perfectly into the surroundings. Only those with a keen eye could spot the armed men hidden in the trees and thick underbrush. The primary purpose of the settlement was to provide housing and a transit point for stolen goods. From there, the goods were transported to the auction area in a large warehouse on the other side of the kingdom, serving the rich and influential who could afford the most precious and rare items. Moving inside the settlement was thorny, through hard-to-reach crossing points, accessible only through underground tunnels or caves via well-guarded paths. On rare occasions, they communicated with the outside, mainly to exchange information about cargo shipments or the location of an upcoming raid. Syberta assigned two fighters to handle Kaer''s training. Every day, he practiced archery and fighting with two knives. A young woman, Aspera, a beautiful and lively blonde, trained alongside Kaer. The two spent more and more time together. They made a vow never to be separated. Aspera spoke to him: "When I''m a grown woman, we''ll run away together." "I will take you to my house, where we will live the rest of our days," said Kaer. Sometimes, they went with friends to hunt deer or catch wild horses and tame them. With the arrival of spring, Kaer and Aspera sneaked through the nearby forests to scout the surroundings. Aspera envisioned her home with Kaer in a large oak forest where wildflowers ruled. He loved flowers very much. They spent the night in the forest, and the next day, they returned home. This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it They saw in the distance the thick smoke rising above their settlement, which had been attacked. A horde of monsters let out horrifying howls as they slaughtered everything around them. Aspera was lost in the chaos. Kaer headed for his hut. Syberta came running towards him. She picked him up and took him to a secluded place. She raised a hatch, and Kaer entered the hideout. Syberta took Kaer''s hand and placed a ring on his finger. As she twisted the ring, Kaer mingled with the air. "I give you this gift: the Ring of Shadows. It is the most precious thing I have, and it has saved my life many times. From now on, it''s yours. Stay hidden here for at least two days." Syberta closed the hatch and left. After two days or more, Kaer came out of hiding. He found Syberta. She was no longer alive. The six monsters around her testified to this warrior''s bravery and skill. Kaer took the bow and the two daggers that had belonged to Syberta. Kaer placed Syberta where he had been hiding for two days. In her hand, he put the mirror in which Syberta had liked to look at herself when she thought no one could see her. Then Kaer plugged the access to that hiding place with earth. No sign of Aspera. Kaer was walking through the dense forest. The tall trees created a shade that gave a false sense of security. He felt an unnatural thrill in this place, so he took shelter in a hiding spot where he could see anyone who approached. He spotted three monsters moving confidently. They were of imposing stature, their skin covered with shiny scales. Their long, sharp claws scratched the ground, and their dagger-like fangs heralded a death sentence. They were experienced in group combat, moving with coordination and demonstrating intelligence. Kaer waited calmly. He acted when he calculated the monsters were within the bow''s attack range. He raised the bow and stretched the string. The first arrow pierced the heart of the first beast, and the monster fell to the ground. Kaer drew another arrow from his leather quiver and repeated the motion without thinking. The second arrow flew straight and hit the eye of the second creature, which went down without a sound. The last monster leaped towards Kaer with great bounds. The young fighter responded with an evasive move he had perfected over years of training, avoiding the fatal blow. Hurt, Kaer spun around and positioned himself behind the beast. With a precise movement, he plunged the two knives into the back of the creature. Kaer felt his strength leave him. His wounds were severe. His breaths were heavy, and his sight grew dim. At last, his eyelids fell, and he was shrouded in darkness. Kaer trudged up the slope as the wild wind whipped his cloak. To the right, a dry tree stood lonely, waiting for a rain that never came. Nearby, the ruins of a settlement. A woman looked at Kaer, who, with difficulty, asked, "Who are you?" The woman answered calmly, "I am the owner of this place. I was waiting for you, Kaer. This world needs a new Keeper." 3. The Tower of Worlds Kaer was at the heart of the high tower of the magic researcher Oyosinna, a lady shrouded in mystery and wisdom. The tower, a universe of arcane knowledge, soared into the heavens, its ancient stone walls shielding the myriad secrets it housed. Inside, the shelves were filled with old manuscripts and books with age-faded covers, written in languages both now spoken and extinct. The first shelf was devoted to magic, with old leather-bound volumes, their pages containing incantations and spells. The second shelf was reserved for world history, with chronicles of forgotten battles and the rise and fall of great empires. Among them were treatises on alchemy, ancient scrolls discussing the genesis of the planet, and other mysterious subjects. Oyosinna, her voice calm and measured, spoke the words with an almost sacral reverence: "I read these books written by the gods. They are written in the language of the gods." Kaer looked at her, his eyes wide in amazement. "Kaer, you consider yourself an archer. You are undoubtedly an outstanding fighter with two knives and arrows after years of rigorous training. But within you lies a unique calling, an art of magic that will transform you into one who will face the challenges ahead. These are heirlooms from your parents. You must be more than just an archer to fulfill your path." Kaer listened intently, puzzled but full of faith in the woman who had saved him from death. "Here are two manuscripts, ''Mind Control'' and ''Worlds Map,''" said Oyosinna. "After you study them, you can summon three or more Ancestral Wolves to fight alongside you. The second book will grant you a powerful talent called Teleporter, allowing you to instantly travel from one location to another, mastering space and time. I will personally initiate you into mastering these powers, which will develop over time." Kaer, his voice filled with emotion and curiosity, asked, "Who are you, Oyosinna, and how did I end up in this story?" Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. "From now on, you can consider me your friend, teacher, or master. With a lot of imagination, I could even be your guardian angel. Consider me your rescue in a critical situation," she replied with a mysterious smile. "What should I do?" Kaer asked. "You do not have to hurry. Events will unfold on their own. You will be amazed at how you discover the strangest things or how they find you. For now, focus on what I gave you to study. You will face opponents whose talents are beyond your imagination, like the monsters that have ravaged your settlement." "What do you know about these monsters?" "Too little for now. I can tell you that these monsters are of the Natorhog race, and their leader is called Garrmud, the ally of the vampires." "The monsters are a formidable blend of human form and lethal horror. Their skin was gleaming, iridescent scales that shimmered with each movement, reflecting the dying light like a warrior''s armor. Though shaped in the likeness of man, their limbs bore the marks of their predatory lineage. Long, sharp claws extended from their fingertips, capable of rending steel and stone alike. These claws constantly scratched the ground, leaving trails of sparks and debris, a testament to their strength and ferocity. A low growl resonating from their throats was a prelude to the carnage they could unleash. They communicated with intricate gestures and low-pitched sounds," said Kaer. "Dear Kaer, the monsters you''ve seen are just the beginning. More powerful ones will follow. At least that''s what I know," Oyosinna said gravely. "I would like to ask a personal question," said Kaer. "Yes, please." "Do you know anything about my beloved Aspera?" "I''m sorry, but I don''t know anything about her," answered Oyosinna with regret. The night before he left, Oyosinna entered Kaer''s room. She approached with shaky steps, her blonde hair flowing down her back. Her grace and allure were genuinely unique. She sat on the edge of the bed and stroked Kaer''s forehead. "I don''t know if we will meet again, my dear Kaer. This is how it works for now." "Why aren''t we going to meet again?" "You are now in The Tower of Worlds. You got here because you died in a certain way. You can''t get here by your will; I can only leave this place in extraordinary circumstances. You will have some revelations that may disturb you at first. View them not as nightmares but as symbolic messages that demand interpretation and understanding. "Now, you are going to start learning about Mind Control. This rare force lies latent within you. Once brought to life, it will continuously develop and become your most potent ability. And as I suspect, it may be the most pleasant lesson you have learned from me." 4. Wendigo Kaer was so engrossed in his studies, so captivated by what he had learned from Oyosinna that he had no idea how much time had passed. Oyosinna told him of the disappearance of the most skilled alchemist, a woman named Salvianna, who ventured too close to the Neemist Forest in search of rare herbs. It was Kaer''s duty to find her and save her. Kaer, dressed in a dark suit, easily blended into the forest as he stood hidden in the heart of the Neemist Forest. His suit was more than just clothing; it was fluid armor, and the knives on his belt changed color in a frenzied play of hues. Kaer had spent three days and three nights in a heart-pounding pursuit, following every sign and clue that might lead him to the Wendigo monster''s lair. The Neemist Forest was a labyrinth of trees, a treacherous territory where every step could be the last, especially for those unfamiliar with the forest and its unpredictable nature. The Wendigo, a creature of a living nightmare, an evil spirit twisted into a merciless beast, reigned as the terror of the Neemist Forest. Its insatiable hunger for human flesh was whispered to be boundless, a craving that never waned no matter how many lives it claimed. The forest was its hunting ground, a perpetual game of life and death. The Wendigo''s name was a curse, a forbidden phrase that could bring doom upon whoever dared utter it. It was a legend come true that froze the hearts of the bravest warriors, a shadow that made people avoid the forest even during the day. A horrifying scream coming from high echoed through the forest. It was the Wendigo. Its fur was matte black, and its figure was imposing, crowned by horns that rose to the sky. Kaer, a strategy master, calculated the beast''s movements, readying an arrow in his bow. He took a deep breath, preparing for the imminent clash. With its heightened senses, the Wendigo detected the hunter''s presence and abruptly halted, its massive head swiveling toward Kaer''s concealed position. Kaer pulled the bowstring with a slow, almost ceremonial movement, calculating the trajectory in the throat. Wendigo ignored the blow that would usually have been fatal; with an agility that belied its size, it continued its walk, its eyes fixed on Kaer. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Kaer released the second arrow, which soared and came to rest in the monster''s chest, causing it to tremble slightly but not knocking it down. A howl of pain rises from the beast''s throat, which, instead of retreating, accelerates towards the hunter. With a swift movement, Kaer readied the third arrow, feeling time compress around him. The beast was only a few paces away now, and each beat of Kaer''s heart seemed to count the monster''s pressed steps. Kaer summons three ancestral wolves, ready for battle. The surprise attack of wolves halted the Wendigo, giving Kaer the moment he needed. Aiming for the beast''s head, Kaer focused all his attention on the final blow. The arrow, with lethal precision, cut through the air and pierced the creature''s skull, knocking it to the ground with devastating force. The wolves made sure the Wendigo was no longer a threat. With precise movements, Kaer cut off the monster''s claws, symbols of its power, and placed them in his backpack. With sure steps, he made his way to the mouth of the cave. The air was sour, and unbearable dampness permeated it. The tunnels led him to a room lit by two torches. Bone pieces and traces of long-forgotten battles were all over the floor. In the center of the hall, a table of mountain stone was built, surrounded by many skulls. Salvianna and two other men were held captive in a well-bolted side room. "Why are you crying now?" Kaer asked, his voice soft but firm. "Fortunately," answered Salvianna, holding Kaer in her arms. By the time they arrived at Castlecrest, night had already fallen over the town. Nestled between Neemist Forest and the equally enigmatic Bristeel Hill Mountains, Castlecrest was more than a castle; it symbolized development, a meeting point for those fond of commerce or adventure. Its high towers and solid walls gave security to the inhabitants and deterred evil-doers. Kaer led Salvianna to her home, a small building. "Do you have a place to sleep? I invite you to stay here if you want. I live alone. I owe you anything you want," Salvianna said, blushing slightly, either from shame or the excitement of Kaer''s presence in her home. "Thanks, but I''ll let you rest," Kaer replied. "Good. Then I will wait for you tomorrow," Salvianna said, her voice loaded with visible emotion. 5. Salvyanna The Alchemist On the way to the Blue Dragon Inn, Kaer noticed the rare artifact shop. The merchant, a man with curious eyes, greeted him respectfully. Kaer pulled out the monster''s claws and strung them across the table. The merchant, eyes wide with amazement, bent down to pick up a claw and look at it closely. "You killed such a beast. I offer you a thousand gold coins, now on the spot," said the merchant. In one slow motion, Kaer gathered the claws, put them back in his backpack, and headed for the exit. The merchant spoke: "Three thousand gold coins." After completing the deal, Kaer headed for the inn. The Blue Dragon Inn was a darkwood building with carved ornaments. The flags displayed inside added a unique charm to the place. A dragon''s claws were exposed to emphasize the inn''s name. Kaer listened to the far-fetched tales of the adventurers as he enjoyed several cups of wine. He asked several people about Aspera, but they had yet to meet a young woman like her. Time flew with every story he heard, every cup of wine he drank, and every glance at the town''s bulletin board, which housed a veritable collection of challenging tasks and rewards. When Kaer awoke, he visited Salvianna. Kaer knocked on the door. Salvianna, the alchemist, was a woman with almost red hair in two ponytails, the right longer than the left. An elegant lady who exudes confidence. She wore a long, deep blue dress with a hood. She had a white scarf around her neck, a miniature gold chain wrapped around her left wrist, and a silver pendant depicting a flame. "Salvianna, I''m glad to see you again." "Please take a seat." If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. She motions to a small table with a warm teapot and pretty glasses. "I''m glad you came," adds Salvianna when she pours the tea. "Thank you, Salvianna. Kaer took a sip of tea, savoring its subtle floral aroma. So, how are you?" "I''m fine, Kaer." Salvianna smiles, her eyes shining brightly. Who knows what could have happened to me if it wasn''t for you?" He leaned closer. Kaer scooped Salvianna into his arms and pulled her close to him. Kaer smiled, feeling the warmth of her embrace. He looked into her eyes, searching for any sign of hesitation or doubt. But all he sees is burning desire. Kaer learned the story of Salvianna and her twin sister. Kaer listened with rapt attention. Salvianna was not a noble or wealthy woman, yet she had gained quite a reputation for her work as an alchemist. It had become common for some women to have maids or even for their sons and daughters to be trained in various trades. In this way, specific skills were kept in the family. A lord''s wife, a benevolent lady, knew plant science and had welcomed young Salvianna into her home. Following an illness, the woman died. Before this unfortunate event, she had initiated Salvianna into the mysteries of alchemy. The lord died soon after without a direct heir. Everything was left to a grandson, who had a limited understanding of the necessity of these things that he was ignorant of. Salvianna suddenly found herself without someone who valued her skills and education. Left homeless, she had tried to sell her services, but without success. For a time, Salvianna considered moving to Conarhal; however, the lack of money made this plan impossible. But she will not be the one to choose her future. A group of foreigners appeared, recruiting people for a new life. They talked about a strange faith and some principles that had yet to be heard. It was a story told for the naive. Santher followers rarely passed through these parts and were viewed with suspicion. They were based on a remote island and claimed to be under the guidance of a powerful god. Salvianna had never turned a deaf ear to unfathomable promises, but the followers who sought her services had premeditated plans. They resorted to threats and violence and finally kidnapped her. Along with her, they took her sister Enneta, who was a novice Enchanter. They were twin sisters. Salvianna suffered in captivity. Her captors forced her to work in their service. It was over four years before Salvianna managed to sneak onto a boat just leaving the island. Since then, she has not known anything about her sister Enneta. 6. Berntunn, the Silent "What story do you have from the place you come from?" "He was an older man who loved me. The woman who raised me, Syberta, a great fighter, said of old Berntunn that he had no family, but neither did he attract anyone around him. He was a loner. I trained daily with my bow and knives. Berntunn was passing by, always dressed the same, in shorts and a striped sweater, the way fishermen used to dress. He came up to me and said, "Young man, stop being so strict with your life. I''ll be back before nightfall, and if you''re still here, we''ll go to the women together." "All his life, he has not talked to anyone as much as he is talking to you in a while. After he couldn''t fight anymore, you''d find him in the same place on a rock. He looked at the sky, the forest, the water, and even the ground for hours," says Syberta. "Speak closer to my ear. I''m ninety-three years old, and I can''t hear well anymore," he said, looking around and saying in a conspiratorial air. I was amused when I realized I had been talking for nothing without him hearing me. The point is that after a while, he told me that he had lied to me. "I lied to you that I can''t hear well. I asked you to speak in my ear to feel you closer. You have no idea what your breath told me, without you knowing. Do you know who your birth parents are? There is a forest where a community of humans live together with wolves. Not many people can boast of having met them. Searching for your past is essential for you. You draw circles in the sand until a rock catches your eye. Watching the stone until it changes shape. You will see much in it, even the trails of snails that have passed over it." Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Salvianna listened to him until the end, then scored dry. "Elder Berntunn was referring to the legend of the Lycans Pack. It is said that a pack of werewolves lives away from the eyes of the world in the Black Wildwood forest." "Werewolves?" "Exactly. The werewolf is also called a man who can turn into a wolf and possesses extraordinary power." "Do you know how to get there?" "I don''t know, but you can ask. For example, here in Castlecrest, you can look for Redowad. He is known to sell information for money." Kaer kissed Salvianna. "Thank you very much for your help. I''m preparing a reception for your sister. If she''s still alive, I''ll bring Enneta home." Dressed in lighter clothes, Kaer ordered a drink at a table, offered drinks to strangers, and asked about Redowad. Over the next two days, Kaer spent time in various taverns, meeting people and chatting with strangers, until a man approached his table and asked permission to sit down. "Redowad, that''s my name. I heard you were looking for me." "So you hear well, but do you understand just as well?" "Oh, the gentleman is tough. What can I help you with?" "With information," Kaer said. "What are you interested in?" "I pay for any information worth paying for, but I pay with one condition: Keep others from hearing. What do you say, Mr. Redowad?" "Agree. I will enjoy working together, even if you look dangerous," Redowad said. Kaer placed a leather bag on the table. "You have here a thousand gold coins. Who do I call to get me on the water safely?" "Are you looking for something cheap or want to pay for the best?" "The second option is acceptable." "Ask about the pirate Gartonk. It is the most famous here and in many other parts of the world. It can take you where you want on the water." "It''s good so far. If I reach the Black Wildwood, who should I look for in connection with those who live with the wolves?" Redowad''s eyes widened, and he shook his head slightly. "Where will I find you tomorrow?" "Ask the innkeeper at the Blue Dragon to show you my room. Put a ticket under the door." Kaer placed another bag of one thousand gold coins on the table, saluted, and left. 7. Enneta, Salviannas Twin Sister Kaer met Gartonk, who agreed to offer his services for a large sum. Kaer paid without comment. The water journey lasted long enough for Kaer to discover the pirate Gartonk, a man of honor he could rely on. A friendship based on trust has grown between the two. Kaer heard many stories about pirates, totally different from the ones he usually heard around the inns. Gartonk leaned back, as he recounted the story to Kaer. "After a fierce battle with a rival pirate on the water, I captured the battleship. It was the first ship I seized through force and the second addition to my small fleet." Kaer raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What happened next?" "In the defeated captain''s cabin, I found a vague map. It seemed to point to the location of a treasure," Gartonk continued, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "I spent a lot of time and money following that map. The map was old and barely legible. But I had a feeling about it. We sailed from port to port, asking questions, and piecing together clues. It took months, but we finally found the island. Finally, I unearthed eleven chests filled with bottles in a cave." Kaer, curiosity piqued, asked, "What''s in those bottles?" Gartonk chuckled softly. "Do you know what you''re drinking right now?" Kaer looked down at his glass, swirling the liquid inside. "No, but it tastes exceptional." "That''s what was in those chests," Gartonk revealed. "At first, I was disappointed. I expected gold or jewels. But then I tasted the drink. It was worth more than any treasure. It became my favorite drink, and ever since I''ve tried to find out what it is, but no one knows." Kaer laughed and raised his glass. "So, we''re getting drunk on a mystery. Friend, when you finally discover where this drink comes from, I''ll order five crates right away." Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! Gartonk clinked his glass against Kaer''s. "To the unknown." They clinked their glasses together, the sound resonating through the cabin. Now Kaer will save Enneta, sister of alchemist Salvianna. Followers of the Santher village hide in a deep forest. Only a keen eye can spot the armed men in the treetops surveying the surrounding area. The buildings are just as hidden. Only a handful of houses and storage sheds are visible from a distance. Several roads led through the forest to a massive concrete building, a bunker, and two smaller houses. The remaining part was devoted to agriculture. Vegetables, crops, and animal grazing were the purposes of the fields. Farmers worked the land, growing or cultivating almost anything. Several signs warned the curious that access was prohibited. Dozens of families, including a handful of farmers and hunters, lived in the small community. The only access was by water. Kaer used Stealth to sneak into the village held by the notorious and dangerous Followers of the Santher. He had to be careful, as the group was known for their extreme violence and lack of compassion for others. He spotted two guards in a watchtower. Both carried crossbows. A large number of men had weapons. Kaer had already observed the location and noticed that many guys were armed. They patrolled the area with dogs. Kaer had no choice but to sneak around. A large building housed several people. They seemed to be preparing for something. Kaer watched and listened. One man was yelling at the group. "Our time has come! We will take what is ours! Stopping us won''t happen!" The crowd cheered. Kaer continued to observe. The man continued. "We will no longer be enslaved or denied. We will take what is ours!" The crowd cheered again. The man raised his hands. "We will no longer be the forgotten ones!" The crowd cheered once more. Kaer snuck into the watchtower, knocked out one of the two guards, then threatened the other. After learning of Enneta''s whereabouts, Kaer puts the guard to sleep with one of the potions created by Salvianna. After finding Enneta, Kaer set fire to two wooden structures, and the two retreated towards the ship. The mission was not without its dangers. Gartonk''s pirates secured the perimeter and monitored the surroundings to facilitate Kaer and Enneta''s safe retreat to the craft deck. 8. Kaers Parents The Black Wildwood is a beautiful forest despite the terrifying tales of the monsters that inhabit it. Like a death trap, it lures you in before swallowing you whole. It is a dense and seemingly peaceful forest. Kaer feels furtive glances following his intentions even if the atmosphere does not instill in him the feeling of being in the position of a victim. Kaer noted the lack of a path. Instead, one¡¯s imagination creates noises and shadows. Kaer stopped and gave a loud cry. ¡°I¡¯m looking for Lyra Swiftclaw. Lyra Swiftclaw. Lyra Swiftclaw.¡± A woman appeared accompanied by three men. The Alpha Female of The Lycan Pack conveys strength and safety. Her face, her allure, combines human and wolf features. On her shoulders, she wears elegant, predatory fur that covers her powerful hands. The nails are long and sharp, resembling real deadly weapons. The sharp eyes and ears are connected to the life of the forest. With graceful movements, the woman approached Kaer. She walks around Kaer a few times and smells him. ¡°Who are you, stranger, and where did you hear the name you called?¡± ¡°My name is Kaer, and I was raised by the fighter Syberta. Here, I came at the urging of an older man.¡± ¡°Does that older man have a name?¡± ¡°Berntunn,¡± answered Kaer. ¡°What exactly did this Berntunn tell you?¡± ¡°To come here and look for my past.¡± They went deep into the forest and reached a cave through a secret entrance. There, they sat comfortably. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Lyra cried for a long time. Then he took Kaer in her arms. ¡°You are my boy. I don¡¯t even check the sign on your chest on the left side, where there is a dark spot. I was hunting when the village was attacked, and you were kidnapped. I looked for you for a long time after that but in vain. I had heard that you by a miracle, by an incident that remained untold to me had reached some merchants. I couldn¡¯t find you because you were already at Syberta. Now I have solved this mystery that has haunted me all my life.¡± Kaer didn¡¯t have much to say; he was so emotional. ¡°Do you have the power of magic? Your father was a great Summoner and a powerful Mind Controller.¡± Lyra Swiftclaw narrates to Kaer the tale of her encounter with his father, Ersol Dennholm, the esteemed wizard. ¡°I was in a fight with vampires. Ersol appeared out of nowhere. He fought alongside the vampires, he was their ally. Ersol wreaked havoc around him, and knocked me down; he had a foot on my chest. He looked at me for a while and spared my life. He came with me and stayed in our tribe. Ersol had told me that monsters sent from the dark would come to help the vampires. Your father often knew what was coming. He had this grace.¡± ¡°What monsters?¡± Kaer asked. ¡°A creation of demons, powerful and bloody warriors called Natorhog, led by Garrmud. When they arrived, your father told me to run with the rest of the tribe, and he was left to fight alone. Only when I witnessed his abilities did I understand that he was not of this world. He had never revealed his place of origin or birth to me.¡± ¡°These Natorhogs also killed Syberta, the one who raised me.¡± ¡°Yes, they are looking for you because you are Ersol¡¯s son. I think they are afraid of you.¡± Kaer fought to digest Lyra¡¯s words and the weight of his history. He had always felt different, a sense of power within him that he couldn¡¯t explain. Having learned of his father¡¯s enigmatic past and the perils that lingered in its shadow, he understood the wizard¡¯s immense power¡ªso much so that even years after vanishing, foes still sought to erase all traces of his existence. Questions flooded Kaer¡¯s thoughts. Why had Ersol kept his identity hidden from Lyra? What secrets are hidden within his father''s lineage, within the core of his existence? How could he hope to face creatures as fearsome as the Natorhogs, beings born of dark magic and destruction? As he gazed at Lyra, her eyes intense with emotion and traces of old wounds still visible on her face by the evil that sought to destroy it, Kaer felt an angry impulse coursing through him. ¡°We will fight against the Natorhog and protect The Lycan Pack at all costs.¡± ¡°They will not rest until they find you, Kaer. We must prepare for the battle that looms on the horizon, for the shadows of the past are stirring once more,¡± says Lyra. 9. Wild Intimacy As the day concluded, Kaer received a tent for rest. A young, beautiful female werewolf led Kaer. "I took care of the cleaning and arrangement of the interior; please let me know if everything is okay and if you need anything else. Scaphya is my name," the woman said with a wide smile. In his tent, he saw a large bed covered with fur, a table with food and drink, and a bathtub filled with water. "Thank you, Scaphya. My name is Kaer." "Call me if you want to walk outside, inside the settlement, or in the forest." "Would you mind this?" "On the contrary, it would give me great pleasure," replied Scaphya, smiling again. "Then let''s go; I''ll rest afterward. As Kaer exited the tent, he paused to chat with a group of children who had surrounded him, begging for a story from his adventures. Kaer sat down on the ground, surrounded by children. ¡°After each of you tells me your name and what you like most, I¡¯ll tell you a story. I¡¯ll start. My name is Kaer, and I love truth and justice. And somewhere between those things, I also enjoy taking the time to share a story about one of my adventures with children.¡± The children stood up one by one, introducing themselves and sharing what they liked. "It was a day when I went hunting. I entered the forest near my village," Kaer began. "I saw a bear, and I think it was hunting too. I had hunted such bears before, so I prepared to take action. Suddenly, there was a loud thunderclap, so strong that I thought a fierce storm was coming. I imagined the sky splitting in two when I saw a huge boulder flying toward me. I barely managed to roll to the side; otherwise, I would have been crushed right then and there.¡± The children¡¯s eyes widened with curiosity, and a few of them scooted closer to Kaer. "Then, I saw a giant with four arms and a single eye in the middle of his forehead. He was uprooting trees and hurling them at me like battle spears." "What happened next?" asked a little girl, who was so overwhelmed with emotion that she began to cry. "I knew I had to act quickly," Kaer continued. "I drew my bow and aimed at his eye, hoping to stop him. But just as I was about to release the arrow, I felt a powerful force lifting me off the ground. I found myself inside a tent." If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. ¡°Did you still have your bow and knives with you?¡± asked a freckle-faced boy. "Yes, my weapons were still with me. In the tent, there was an elderly woman. She offered me something to eat, and after I had eaten, she took my hand and led me outside. ''You¡¯ve already met my son,'' she said." "The giant was the witch¡¯s son?" one of the children asked. "Yes," Kaer replied. "That¡¯s exactly what I asked her. ''The giant who attacked me is your son?'' She nodded and explained, ''You must forgive him for what he did. He¡¯s just a child and makes many mistakes, especially when he¡¯s scared of strangers.''" Kaer smiled at the children and continued, "That¡¯s how I met Grellog the giant. We became the best of friends. From then on, we hunted together, with me riding on his left shoulder. He turned out to be a most reliable friend. Another time, I¡¯ll tell you how I saved my giant friend¡¯s life and how Grellog saved mine." Kaer took Scaphya''s hand as they entered the forest. "Do you like kids?" Scaphya asked him. "Yes, I like them very much. Do you have children?" "Not yet. Until now, I''ve only dated men from our tribe, and love has not blossomed for me yet." "I''ve never encountered a female werewolf; your presence is delightful." "Thank you," replied Scaphya, blushing. While traversing the thick forest, Kaer and Scaphya exchanged tales from their lives. Kaer learned about the traditions and daily life of the werewolf tribe while Scaphya listened intently to his story of adventure and magic. "Will I be able to see you again before I leave? "I hope so, Kaer. I enjoy your company as well," Scaphya said with a smile. She was lithe and muscular, her muscles rippling as she moved gracefully, and her eyes were a piercing green that shone with intelligence. The Scaphya''s scent was a mix of earth and wildflowers with a hint of musk. It was refreshing and natural but also heady and alluring, drawing Kaer closer to her. Kaer pulled Scaphya closer and kissed her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and returned his kiss with a passion that surprised them both. "I''m sorry," she apologized, stepping back. "There is no reason to apologize; I am the one who kissed you," said Kaer. "We have been away for too long. The tribe must be wondering where we are," she said, walking towards the camp. Kaer followed her. The two returned to the camp in silence, both lost in their thoughts. "Are you allowed to stay the night in my tent?" Kaer asked. "I''m allowed because I don''t have a husband. But I prefer to come secretly. You are not thinking about a lasting relationship and just want an affair. You''re probably curious to see how wild such an escapade is with a werewolf." "Would that be the wrong thing to do?" "If we both desire the same thing, there is no wrongdoing." "If you don''t want to, then no." "Let''s do that; I will come." "Then, I''ll see you later, Scaphya." ¡°Yes, goodbye, Kaer.¡± Scaphya enters Kaer''s tent. She sat on the bed. "I''m heating water and I''ll wash you first. It is a tradition of ours". Falling into a deep sleep, Kaer dreamed of Oyosinna and had a vision. A necromancer had sought sanctuary in a cave concealed within the depths of the forest bordering a village. This necromancer was the exclusive possessor of the Black Circle Bracelet, an item containing Sunset Stardust, a legendary black essence. The master blacksmith Huzdurwan was skilled in the rare art of extracting this black essence. For the terrible events that will follow, Kaer will need the help of the dragon tanner. To reach the world where Uverta The Tanner lives, Kaer will need Black Essence Potion. 10. Black Essence In the morning, Kaer said goodbye to Lyra. Upon returning to Castlecrest, Kaer first went to the Trophy Shop. The store owner looked at Kaer with great interest. Whenever he entered his store, he had only rare objects. "Good day, Mr. Kaer," greeted the trader respectfully. "Hello, sir." The trader urged him to sit on a chair, and Kaer motioned for him to lock the store. Kaer put some unique objects from The Black Wildwood on the table. "Wow, what an amazing surprise this has been. I never expected to witness that." "You have money to buy something like that? Or are they going to sell them elsewhere?" "I''m money, Mr. Kaer. It''s money because this is our occupation. That''s what we do here. Money. Careful examination of objects for an accurate valuation requires patience." Finally, the two ended the business and hugged. "Validate our understanding. You will only tell people where you have these objects. Goodbye, sir." Throughout the day, Kaer viewed several houses on the market. He selected two neighboring properties situated in the northwest part of the city. He decided on one for his residence and the other to prepare for his mother, Lyra, who had bestowed upon him those precious items. He chose to spend the night in his arms with Salvianna. "Good evening, miss!" "Kaer. I am glad to see you again. Lust inside. Do you stay here at night?" "If you invite me, I''ll stay." "I invite you." "What does your sister Enneta do?" "She is at home. I helped her have an enchantment shop. She is happy." "Did you hear about Black Essence?" "I''ve heard of it but never witnessed it myself. It''s exceedingly rare." "I need a potion from this essence." "I''ll be interested in the formula," Salvianna said. Kaer approached the woman, lifted her in his arms, kissed her, and began to comfort her. Then he gently placed her on the bed. In the morning, Kaer looked at the village recently attacked by Agrandaur monsters. A powerful necromancer, he could create an army of monsters using the force of magic. Summons Agrandaur monsters, creatures with great adversity to the living. When they appear, the temperature in the surrounding area drops dramatically. Agrandaur monsters could continuously feed the necromancer with dark energy. In the shadowed corners of the world, where the step between life and death grows thin, their figures are veiled in shadows, a sinister energy that permeates the air, transforming breaths into mist and heat into cold. They are the remnants of humanity''s darkest imaginings, twisted limbs, and rending claws, a cruel mockery of the natural order. Yet, their movement has grace and a formidable elegance in their coordination. They are not simply beasts; they are the somber heralds of oblivion. Beneath the moon''s pale gaze, their fur is a sea of shifting shadows, muscles coiled with latent power. They are silent sentinels of the night. To look upon them is to feel the pull of the abyss, to sense the fragility of life in a world that harbors such specters. Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings. And in their midst, the humanoid figures stand as twisted paragons of their kind. Their skin resembles a garden of spines, like ice daggers protruding from their bodies. Their eyes, devoid of soul, glow with a ghostly luminescence, a beacon for the damned. They wield weapons not forged but born of a nightmare, each movement a whisper of desolation. In their wake, the antithesis of life is a reminder of the fragile line that separates the living from the lost. The necromancer needed many fresh bodies to complete the last ritual, so he began to lure the villagers into the forest, where his monsters killed them. He had gathered a lot of energy and was close to giving birth to a powerful undead, but an anomaly interrupted the summoning ritual. By negating two spells he had used without studying them enough, the Agrandaur monsters attacked him to death. His death has left a void in the balance of power as his army of monsters now roams without the command of their master. They were wreaking havoc, destroying crops and killing residents. Arriving near the village, Kaer could see fences and houses torn down and crops destroyed. There are signs of a struggle near the barn. Kaer is drawn to the signs near the barn and approaches. The grass is trampled. He imagined the desperate defenders who had tried to hold out against the monsters. Kaer notices tracks leading away from the barn and into the nearby woods. With his hand resting on his bow, he prepares for the inevitable encounter with the pack of monsters. A strange feeling comes over him. The atmosphere is brimming with unearthly energy. There is a muffled hum in the air. Strange creatures lurk in the shadows. A mischievous, wrinkled-faced gnome emerges behind a moss-covered rock and immediately disappears. A slight stretch of still, dirty water makes him shudder. An army of monsters is waiting to emerge from the depths. He kneels to touch the water''s surface and is repulsed by a tingling sensation moving up his fingertips. He hears distant voices speaking in animal language. Leaves rustle underfoot, and the distant hoot of an owl is heard. Kaer notices movement among the trees ahead. He readies his bow, takes cover behind a thick tree trunk, and looks around. A herd of monsters is seen not far from where Kaer is hiding. They are a fearsome sight with eyes shining with malice. Kaer counts at least seven of them, their number making his heart skip a beat. He took a deep breath, focusing all his attention on the herd leader. He pulled the string of his legendary bow back as far as he could, feeling the weapon become one with his hand. With a quick and precise movement, Kaer releases the arrow. It rises through an ear and flies straight to the chest. The monster lets out a pained howl and collapses. The surviving beasts, perceiving their leader''s fall, shifted their baleful stares to Kaer''s concealment. Their eyes shimmered with malevolent luminescence, and their snarls saturated the atmosphere with vows of retribution. For a moment, they seem uncertain, unsure of what to do, but then their instincts take over. Kaer knew he had little time before they would be upon him. He swiftly notched another arrow, his movements a dance of precision and speed honed by years of training. The monsters charged, their forms a blur of shadows and fury. Kaer knew he must act quickly, or he would be overwhelmed by the herd. He aimed another arrow at the nearest one, then released it, which flew through the air and stopped in the throat. The monster falls to the ground. The rest head for Kaer. The arrow flew silently yet lethally, a murmur of demise amidst the forest''s hush. He stood still, releasing arrow after arrow with blazing speed and accuracy. One by one, the monsters fall. Then, he summoned the ancestral wolves. Kaer finds the lifeless necromancer and takes the Black Circle Bracelet. Back at Castlecrest, Kaer entered through the wide door of Huzdurwan''s smithy. The air smelled of the specific smell of burning coal and red-hot metal. Various tools and implements are hung on the walls, and shelves filled with nuggets and pieces of several types of metals bend under their weight. Kaer stopped in front of a solid table near the entrance. A man appeared from behind a brick oven. "Hello, my name is Kaer, and I am looking for Master Huzdurwan." "It''s about me. What can I do for you?" the man asked. Kaer looked at him intently. He was a short, stocky man with prominent muscles and a broad chest. A braided beard covered his face. He wore a protective robe of thick leather and gloves of the same material. "Can we talk in a secluded place?" Kaer asked, his gaze drifting to the two working helpers. They climbed a wooden staircase and sat at a table on the upper floor. Kaer placed the Black Circle Bracelet in front of Huzdurwan. The blacksmith looked at the bracelet and briefly rubbed his beard. "If it were an ordinary bracelet, you would not have bothered to come and show it to me. If it''s that bracelet, it means that sometimes stories are true." "I heard you can extract an essence from this item." "I''ve done something like this before, it''s true. Can you pay for this service?" "How many gold coins do you want?" "I don''t want gold money. Whoever has such an object can also find what I want¡ªThe Eclectic Dagger. I don''t need the item to get rich. I have an old debt that I need to pay, and now I think I will have this opportunity," said Huzdurwan. "You can get to work, Mr. Huzdurwan," Kaer said. He pushed the bracelet toward the blacksmith, saluted respectfully, and left. 11. The Eclectic Dagger In the middle of a wild forest, Ederhard made his way with difficulty through the mist that had lingered since the morning. The mist impaired his vision and made it difficult for him to breathe. A pungent smell hung in the air, reminding him of rotting flesh. With every step he took, he felt the tension of facing the monster. He held a heavy crossbow with a deadly sharp tip made from pure silver in his right hand. On the left side, a shield was attached to his belt. It was painted blood red and golden yellow; the colors of his birthplace, a region he call home again. Ederhard had sworn not to rest until his task had been fulfilled. The enemies that threatened his tribe could no longer be dealt with peacefully. Ederhard still remembered how his parents and younger siblings had been taken away from him. This had been the price of surrender, the penalty for cowardice. For him, there was nothing worse than being taken prisoner and bound by an unbeatable power. Therefore, Ederhard fought against this threat. Sometimes, the only thought that spurred him on was vengeance; he had made this promise to himself: As soon as the old enemy was destroyed, he would avenge his parents. At the same time, Ederhard swore to honor their names with his actions. He stepped around a large rock that emerged from the sea of fog. Ederhard wiped a drop of cold sweat from the back of his neck, the moisture seeping into his armor and trickling along his spine. The odor of putrefaction mingled with the dampness on his skin. Why do I sense no signs of movement or sound? The area appeared devoid of all life and vegetation. With each step he took, he started to lose his sense of direction¡ªhe couldn''t tell which way was ahead, behind, or to the side. His unease intensified as if he were about to stumble into something horrifying and repulsive. Stop! It could be dangerous. Don''t look. Turning back, Ederhard heard his inner voice scream at him. Don''t look! Suddenly, Ederhard felt a violent force rush toward him and pin him against the damp, moss-covered trunk of an ancient tree. From somewhere behind, Kadper Scourge attacked, and Ederhard''s men fell one by one. There were a few moments of silence before the monster unleashed its final attack. Kadper Scourge was an aggressive and powerful creature. Its body was a unique mix of dragon and spider characteristics, with sharp, pointy scales covering its long frame. Its head resembled a dragon, with scaly green skin and rows of jagged teeth in its open mouth. Eight long legs sprouted from its body, resembling those of an arachnid, while two massive black horns protruded from its skull. Its tail was long and covered in similar scales to those of est of its body. The creature had a thick coat of matted black hair running down its spine to the tip of its tail instead of fur or scales. This mane could easily have been mistaken for the hide of a mammal. It was a genuinely strange-looking beast. Kadper Scourge lived on an island surrounded by a vast body of water on one side and a mountain range on the other. Its large and heavy body made it incapable of flight, confining it to its island habitat. Kadper Scourge made its home in a cave in the middle of a rocky area on the island and often wandered through the area, looking for prey. The creature could wield the club at the end of its tail with remarkable speed and power. Moreover, when threatened, Kadper would release a cloud of poisonous spores from its mouth. If these spores made contact with a living creature, the spores would grow and spread, eventually consuming the target''s body completely. You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author. Although Kadper''s diet consisted primarily of meat, the creature had a strong sweet tooth. Kadper Scourge was very fond of honey and would go out of its way to find a source of honey. When Kadper was unsuccessful in finding an adequate source of honey, it would begin to act erratically. Kadper Scourge had no natural predators. Ederhard attempted to draw his sword, only to be horrified upon discovering that is forcibly taken from him. He inspected his damaged armor and started to comprehend the gravity of the situation. A thick, sticky web wrapped around him, completely immobilizing him. For a moment, Ederhard thought about his tribe, which would disappear, for if he failed to defeat Kadper Scourge, then no one would stand in its way. He was ready and waiting for the final blow when a voice echoed in his mind. "Don''t be afraid because you will not die today. You are not alone in this world." Three arrows pierced the neck of the monster, who stumbled, began to shake its head in confusion, and became visibly disoriented. The arrows were laced with one of the most potent poisons. Salvianna''s science was proving its power. Like lightning, three wolves attacked the monster''s legs and collapsed on its stomach. Kaer picked up Ederhard''s sword and threw it to him. He then shot another set of arrows at the beast. Ederhard gained momentum and attacked in turn. After a fierce battle, Kadper Scourge, the notorious villain, has finally been defeated by the courageous heroes. "You saved my life. Who are you, and where do you come from?" Ederhard asked. "My name is Kaer, and I come from far away. The victory is all yours." "I invite you to my home in the Frostwood tribe." Ederhard was greeted as a true hero. The Frostwood tribe is settled in the northern mountainous region, where coniferous forests rule the steep slopes and rivers tumble in majestic cascades into deep valleys. Wooden structures are strategically placed near water sources and on high ridges across this unique landscape. Led by Ederhard, a legendary warrior renowned for his bravery and skill in battle, the Frostwood Tribe is the most respected of all the other tribes in the land. The elders form a council that serves as a spiritual link between nature and the tribe. Ederhard consults this council for advice concerning the tribe''s life. Lately, the discussions have focused on the importance of uniting all the tribes into a form of power that can resist the attacks of other predatory peoples. Ederhard was best suited to complete this unification. Now, after defeating the monster that was terrorizing the surroundings, this task had become more accessible. As a sign of appreciation, Ederhard presented his tribe¡¯s collection of rare items to his new friend and ally, Kaer. Kaer was invited to choose an object as a sign of friendship. Kaer chose the Electric Dagger, the item the blacksmith so desired. After a three-day stay, Kaer said goodbye to Ederhard. ¡°It is a long distance to the city where I have a house. But if you ever need me, you can find me in Castlercrest town in the Kingdom of Talladom.¡± Huzdurwan¡¯s hands trembled with excitement as he carefully picked up the artifact and admired the unique object with a craftsman¡¯s eye. ¡°A gem like I have never seen before. Behold, I give you the essence, as you requested. Besides, you have my thanks and the promise that I will always be at your disposal.¡± Kaer smiled and took the small metal container shaped like an ampoule. ¡°Salvianna will use the essence to create the desired potion,¡± Kaer replied quietly. ¡°And thank you for your generosity, Huzdurwan. I will request your services when needed.¡± In a few days, Salvianna concocted a potion that emanated a pulsating light. ¡°Kaer, this is the first potion of this kind that I have prepared with the help of the essence,¡± Salvianna explained. ¡°The formula I found could have been more specific. It is called ¡®Infinite,¡¯ and its effects are not mentioned in the treaty. Please use this potion wisely, and I hope it will help you in your travels.¡± Kaer looked at the unique liquid, ready to explore new and unknown worlds. 12. Traveler "So, what''s your favorite drink?" asked Lydia. She was an attractive woman with light red hair, one of the few customers at the Bright Red Bar. Kaer, a middle-aged man, smiled, thinking of the drinks he''d had in other worlds. "Scotch," he replied. Lydia''s eyes widened. "Wow! You''re serious, aren''t you?" Kaer looked up at her. "No, I''m not joking." "You don''t seem like the talkative type," Lydia said after the silence. "It''s something else entirely." "What is it? Shyness?" "I don''t like leaving things unfinished. Starting a relationship with you is hard. I''m a time traveler, crossing countless worlds. We may never meet again." Lydia burst out laughing. "Come on, you''re a nice guy with a great sense of humor. I don''t mind you disappearing like a beautiful dream. Other men leave behind wives and children. You¡¯ll leave only a memory." Her voice trembled slightly, and her eyes were a mix of amusement and sadness. Lydia took out her phone and snapped a picture of herself kissing Kaer. The following two hours felt like a dream in the dimly lit hotel room above the bar, their laughter and whispers filling the air. The following morning, Lydia lay in bed, consumed by thoughts of Kaer. The idea of crossing paths with him again lingered, evoking a deep yearning. Lydia opened her phone and looked at the photo taken in the bar. She was alone in the middle of the bar with one hand outstretched as if holding someone; her lips parted as if kissing someone. The bar closed late, but Ragemad had plenty of time to get home before sunrise. Walking down the back alley, he noticed two figures beside a large dumpster. Ragemad approached them. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. One was so drunk that standing was difficult. "What are you discussing? A beautiful night like this is worth living to the fullest," Ragemad said. The younger soldier looked up. "Huh? What did you say, sir?" His accent and choice of words sounded oddly familiar, a mix of German and French. "I asked what you had in mind tonight. There are nicer places for fun," Ragemad continued. The soldier turned to the young man beside him. "Who do you think he is? He seems polite. We shouldn''t bother him with our problems." "You don''t bother me," Ragemad assured. The first soldier shook his head. "No, it''s nothing. It was just a stupid thing that happened on the front." "I''m listening. I haven''t seen it all yet," Ragemad encouraged. The young soldier glanced around and then turned his head. "They told us not to talk about it." "Talk about what?" Ragemad pressed. "Vampires," the older soldier muttered, his head bobbing back and forth. "How could they do this to our country? What did they do to our women and children? Those filthy monsters." "What''s your name?" Ragemad asked the younger soldier. "Frederick, sir." "Ludwig," said the other. "So, you think vampires did this to your country?" Ragemad questioned. Frederick shook his head. "Not exactly, sir. Officers and some soldiers in higher positions saw them. They all returned from the front wounded, some bitten. Few survived. Most died. We are mercenaries and joined for extra food. There have been no jobs at home since the war broke out." "Well, there''s a way to get more food¡ªand money. A lot of money," Ragemad said. Frederick looked at him with increased interest. "There''s nothing to fear. It''s a gift that needs acceptance. Whoever wants to join can, as long as there''s room," Ragemad offered. Frederick stood up and held out his hand. Ragemad smiled at the boy¡¯s quick decision. "Here''s my business card. Look for me at my restaurant, the only Bright Red Bar." "We will come," Frederick confirmed. "Excellent. See you there," Ragemad said, greeting them and leaving. He thought of Lydia. Something was happening to him. He had never fallen in love, and letting Lydia go with that man felt wrong. When he saw an open gift shop, he decided to buy something for her. He picked a silver pendant with a crimson ruby encased in a thin gold coating. The gold frame was meticulously carved with a rose design, making the pendant look lifelike. He resolved to give her this present. He just had to decide when to transform Lydia into a vampire. Ragemad saw the man Lydia had left the bar with. He thought he could reach him in two jumps. His legs went limp, and he fell to his knees. He put his head in his hands, feeling like he was floating. He wanted to stand up. Kaer pointed his index finger at him and made a sign. Ragemad lay still, gripping the ground.