《Level Up Family》


 Chapter 1: Just Another Day

    Chapter 1: Just Another Day


    Ding!


    [You havepleted today''s assignment, 100 EXP gained!]


    Ding!


    [Error: because of your ''setting,'' EXP cannot be distributed to your being!]


    Ding!


    [Reconfiguring distribution method into skill-based mastery method, you have acquired 1 Mastery Point!]


    _____


    A mechanical voice said to the mind of a tall and robust individual who sat within a daily office setting, typing away with his fingers on a clunky old model QWERTY keyboard. His overly grown ck hair scatted to his sides with his everyday work suit that barely covered up his rippling muscles, giving him a kind of tamed wildness.


    Looking at his features more carefully, one would notice that his tired eyes were of a bright blue, with a straight nose that perfectly fit with his well-sculpted face and firm lips. He seemed to be in histe twenties, with a ring scar around his leftmost eye, running down from his forehead to his cheekbone.


    As if he only now heard the noise from the system-like voice, the man sighed as he leaned back on his chair and cracked his knuckles creating an audible sound within the currently sparse office.


    The man snorted as he stared at a nk space and said something with his mind, ''Show Mastery.''


    Following his words, a screen appeared before his eyes, showing the details of his Mastery Point.


    _____


    [Mastery Point - 7665]


    _____


    ''Yup, after 21 years, I''ve totaled up this amount of points. Yet, how fitting of it to not have any use to me in the world." The man thought as he then stared outside the window, noticing that it was alreadyte in the afternoon.


    While gazing into the orangish-red sky, with golden-hued clouds that loomed above the skyscrapers, he made a loss look as he contemted, ''Born with a system and ability to level up, but with no real means of using it. Ha, I suppose it only came in handy during those old times.''


    While he mused, his eyes sparkled in a vague light, carrying a tinge of red as he recalled his past lifestyle, the person he was then was exceedingly different from the current him. Sometimes, he would even stop to ponder, what would the younger him think of himself if he were to see him in his present state?


    As if he wanted to answer his own question, the man took out an adorably decorated green pendant with rose engravings, seeming to have been hand-carved by a woman based on its design. Just by looking at the locket, this rough-looking man made a smile like no other, looking no different from a gentle soul cherishing a priceless treasure.


    He took a deep breath, breathing in a familiar fragrance as he opened it slowly. Soon, three faces appeared within it, causing the man''s eyes to grow slightly moist as if each of these three silhouettes were his proudest possession in the entire world.


    ''Hehe he''d probably say I did a frigging good job...'' The man thought with a cheeky smirk, closing the locket and cing it back around his chest.


    After having his daily feast for his eyes, the man prepared to pack up, but at this time, a sharp voice sounded from a room connected to the office.


    "S-Scar, g-g-get your ass in here r-r-right now!" A man''s voice sounded as if he wasmanding the heavens, but based on his tone, he almost seemed flustered.


    The man identified as Scar shook his head and red at the direction of the voice, he took a deep breath, calming himself down as he knew what he''d do if he lost his cool.


    After shutting off the PC and packing up, he casually made his way towards the room with a half-opened door. Scar entered and looked at the scene before him in surprise, as it was not only the fat, bald supervisor, but even the Managing Director was present in the room.


    Scar felt uneasy as he noticed that they were staring at him with odd looks, he even saw that a few stacks of papers were neatly ced down before them as if they had just sorted through some materials.


    ''Well shit...'' Scar thought to himself as he knew what was happening, this wasn''t the first time, and certainly, wouldn''t be thest. Still, despite his current feelings, Scar made an icy apathetic look.


    The supervisor upon seeing Scar''s indifference, trembled a bit before his eyes grew firm, he spoke while stuttering, "P-P-Please take a seat, w-we have a few words that we''d like to d-d-discuss with you,"


    Scar shook his head and sat down on the fold-up chair, folding one leg over the other as he seemed to not have a care in the world.


    The supervisor was upset, but he didn''t dare to say anything after going through the papers in the details. The Managing Director nced at the supervisor and spoke, "I''ll take it from here. You don''t need to say anything else."


    The supervisor heaved a sigh of relief as he bowed and spoke, "Thank you, sir."


    The Managing Director then looked at Scar with an odd look; he even lit a cigarette and passed it towards him as he asked, "Cigarette?"


    Scar looked at this and spoke indifferently, "I''m sure that you''ve both learn of a few of my past details; you should hurry up and get on with it."


    The Managing Director smirked as he heard those words. He raised the cigarette to his mouth and puffed it before he stared at Scar directly in his eyes and spoke a mouthful, "From hijacking, murder, and many other criminal acts I won''t mention. You, Sir Marius Edgewick, is a dangerous man. I''m frankly awed that you can shroud so much of that kind of history and im this kind of employment. What kinds of strings in high ces did you pull to not enter death''s row?"


    After saying his piece, the Managing Director looked at Marius with deep expression, but sadly for him, by the time he finished speaking, Marius had already risen from his head and turned towards the door.


    The Managing Director was a bit surprised, but he soon made a mocking look as he spoke again, "I see that you are also a wise man, Mr. Edgewick. It was a pleasure having such a man of your caliber in ourpany, even if it were only a short time. Take care on your way out, and remember, there will always be two kinds of people in the world. Those who are top of the line and those who are at the bottom rugs."


    As Marius heard those words, he stopped looking back as he chuckled before speaking, "Two kinds of people you say? Such interesting words... but I also need to remind you, dear manager, outside of this batch is simrly the third kind..."


    When Marius said this, his eyes shimmered in red color, not saying anything else. The previously confident Managing Director and supervisor trembled at those words, watching as Marius left the office in silence.


    Marius only took what he needed, as for anything else, he left where they were, this wasn''t his first time, he had grown tired of packing everything he owned in apany on his way out.


    As Marius left, no one said hello or bye; he was treated in a manner no different from air, as the few who did notice him always kept their distance afraid of identally crossing his path.


    For as long as he could remember, his life had always been as such. Ostracize by many, feared by others, even more so during his younger years of living on the edge. He was always the odd in a world of even numbers, the different hue in a monotonous canvas.


    Yet, despite recalling such thoughts, Marius merely shook his head as a helpless look came over his face while walking through the crowded streets, filled with people of all walks and vehicles of the standard to superior models.


    ''How do I exin it to her? Out of all the jobs within the closest vicinity to our new apartment, this was thest one. Now even my past has caught up to me here. It wouldn''t have been so bad if this happened a monthter. But for today of all darn days, especially when I''m alreadygging behind on the room''s rent. Such darn misery is far too much for a group to handle much less one man...'' Marius contemted with a trouble-filled expression, not knowing how to proceed in the future, at this rate, they''ll probably end up living on the streets.


    "Should we rough it out in the wilds like in my younger years, huhu that would certainly be something else," Marius murmured as he shook his head no longer pondering anything, right now, he only wanted to ease his burdens, he wanted to see his wife and two lovely children.


    After traveling for minutes on foot in the busiest sector of this city, Marius soon found himself at an apartmentplex. It was an uncountable number of stories tall, with many differentpartments for renters and others, a well-recognized ce with even security at the gates and recreational facilities.


    While many could partake in these benefits, due to their standing on thispound, Marius and his family didn''t have such luck.


    Marius passed the guard and promptly entered thepound, he then entered the main building and traveled through the bottommost hallway towards his room door. He felt a tinge of peace after arriving here, as though the surroundings were filled with noise from all corners, a vague scent that wafted from behind the door made his soul felt sublime.


    With a turn of the knob, the door opened, revealing a simple square-shaped room that though dark due to the lights being off, seeming not to be toorge or small, perfect for a simple family of four as it only had two bedrooms.


    Marius thought that it was too hushed as by this hour his wife and children would be up and ying, he hurriedly closes the door behind him and spoke out loud, "Honey? Kids? I''m home!"


    After a few seconds, Marius didn''t hear any reply causing his face to sink, he dashed towards the living room, but right as his foot touched the carpet at its center, a bright light shed as a startling scene urred.


    ***


    Hello all, if you would like the story, please feel free to support it by leaving a review and a power stone, I will always appreciate it, as it will help in getting the story noticed by many others. Thank you if you ever choose to do so.

 Chapter 2: Mariuss Family, A Sudden Change

    Chapter 2: Marius''s Family, A Sudden Change


    Other than himself, his family could also be considered as a strange one. The reason? It''s simple, both Marius and his wife are born with unusual gifts, and these traits had also ended up passed down to their children. Because of this, no matter where they go, who they meet, they will always be perceived as the odd ones.


    The bright lights turned on, revealing the room filled with decorations as if there was some kind of event. Marius saw this and had a happy look on his face as he stared at the individuals before him with a wide smile as he thought to himself, "Even if so, I shall always take pride in everyone, for in my eyes, you are all my priceless treasures,'' Marius thought as he looked at the scene before him with joy, his eyes glistening with a hint of tears.


    "We-Welcuum hoome, dadda!" An extremely adorable little girl struggled to say as she lifted her small arms her ran towards him in an unsteady manner.


    She had bright unnatural green hair andrge innocent-looking purple eyes and a little long-sleeved shirt, almost covering her small palms.


    Behind this girl, was a gorgeous woman of peerless grace, almost nonhuman. Her features were simr to the little girl with long green hair and a hat over her head. Though she wore a simple dress, despite itsmonness it was unable to shroud her abundance, her small nose, delicate lips, and graceful almond eyes with thin eyebrows.


    Also, at the side of this woman was a growing boy, his height norger than Marius''s waist. His arms were ced behind him for some reason and were wrapped by something akin to a straight jacket. However, his face had an innocent smile.


    "Wee home, dear!"


    "Wee home, dad!"


    The beauty and the young boy said in unison as they began to walk towards him at a steady pace. Marius didn''t even hesitate to hurry forward and grasp the little angel in his arm, lifted her to his chest and teasing.


    "My Little Rose can''t be so cute? How dare you show such cuteness at this hour?" Marius yfully said as he rubbed her hair, causing her to close her eye in delight as she giggled.


    Little Rose was only three-year-olds; her given name was Rose Edgewick and was naturally the most peculiar child of the family. When Marius yfully rubbed her head, her hair, which parted to the side, revealed two extremely adorable golden horns.


    Marius didn''t show any major reaction to this, knowing about these horns since the day of her birth. Anyone else who knew of it, also simrly no longer existed in this world.


    He knew that with this fact and his wife''s ever such looming strangeness, that though they seemed human, they most certainly weren''t by any degree. Even their status sheets told him otherwise, as for why he didn''t press his wife for more answers? Marius knew that his wife would sooner orter exin all of these things to himself.


    Speaking of which his wife''s name was Ria Zorith, a beauty born of an unknown family whom even someone of Marius''s level could not trace in this world.


    As for his son, who was called Grevlin Edgewick, Marius couldn''t be anymore prouder. Despite his strange disability to not properly use his arms, he was naturally the most obedient son, having no other unusual features except for marking on his chest.


    At this time, both Grevlin and Ria had arrived at Marius''s side, Marius kissed Little Rose and passed her to Ria before he rubbed Grevlin''s head and spoke, "My little champion, how was your day?"


    Grevlin smiled and replied, "Father, I finally learned how to hold a rock more gently."


    When Marius heard this, he was surprised; he looked at Grevlin with beaming eyes as he knew full well of his son''s umon arm strength. He spoke, "Have you really achieved this?"


    Grevlin puffed out his chest with pride as he spoke, "Hehe, yes I have father, I want to show youter."


    Marius smiled as he patted Grevlin''s head and replied with a praising tone, "That''s my boy! Since you say it''s so, then its so, from now on, we''ll only need to work on getting you to property hold something lesser denser than rocks."


    Grevlin made an innocent grin closing his eyes as he enjoyed the praise, Marius then turned to his lovely wife, staring at her with a gentle look as he held her slender waist and kissed her on her lips.


    After the two kissed, Marius stared at her with his nose being only a few centimeters apart from her''s as he spoke, "I''m home..."


    Ria made a warm smile and held her face with her palm as she spoke, "You look troubled, what happened today?"


    Though Marius kept a straight face, his worry was slightly visible in his eyes, while others wouldn''t notice this difference. His wife wasn''t what you''d call normal; she could sense things of a negative and chaotic nature as if it was by instinct.


    Marius shook his head and replied, "I''ll talk about it after dinner,"


    After saying this, Marius walked away while holding Grevlin''s hand; he looked at the neatly decorated table with all sorts of food, cake, and drinks. He made a warm smile as he turned to look at Ria and spoke, "It seems you''ve been busy today."


    Ria made a matter of fact look as she walked over while holding Little Rose in her arms, she spoke, "Well, of course, I couldn''t have our anniversary celebration be like such, now can I?"


    Mariusughed as he replied, "Haha, you''re right, certainly not like in those earlier years."


    Ria also grinned, knowing what he was talking about. Back when they met and fell in love, he had still taken a while to retreat from his old lifestyle, resulting in some truly awkward battlefield anniversaries. Heck, even their private marriage was in some remote wildnds.


    "Hehe, yes, it really does take me back, you were also so fierce, not so tamed..." Ria said while licking her lips, her face carrying a slightly enchanting look.


    Marius knew what that look meant; he gulped, preparing himself mentally for another long night. Ria walked by him stealthily, pressing her finger on his side before acting as nothing happened.


    Ria then spoke with a loud voice, "Kids, eat up now; tonight, we''ll all have to go to bed early!"


    "Yes, mama!"


    "Yes, mother!"


    Little Rose and Grevlin replied as they hurriedly sat down around the table, Ria began to feed to Little Rose as Grevlin started to unfasten the interior zip on his armbinders.


    Marius looked at this in surprise; he thought for a bit before he decided to inspect everyone, speaking with his mind, ''Inspect Status.''


    _____


    [Name: Grevlin Edgewick]


    [Level: 0 | Age: 10]


    [Race: Human + ?]


    [Stamina: Not Appcable]


    [Strength: Not Appcable]


    [Agility: Not Appcable]


    [Dexterity: Not Appcable]


    [Unknown Power: None]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Passive Strengthen  Arms | Level 1]


    [Mastery: 0/500 | Locked: Unable to increase mastery]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the host to strengthen their arms passively, the ability will increase in mastery for each use and non-use over time.]


    ....


    [Call of Darkness: Locked]


    [Description - ???]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    _____


    [Name: Ria Zorith]


    [Level: 0 | Age: 25]


    [Race: ?]


    [Stamina: Not Appcable]


    [Strength: Not Appcable]


    [Agility: Not Appcable]


    [Dexterity: Not Appcable]


    [Unknown Power: None]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [????: Sealed]


    [Description - ???]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: ]


    [????: Sealed]


    [????: Sealed]


    [????: Sealed]


    _____


    [Name: Rose Edgewick]


    [Level: 0 | Age: 3]


    [Race: Human + ?]


    [Stamina: Not Appcable]


    [Strength: Not Appcable]


    [Agility: Not Appcable]


    [Dexterity: Not Appcable]


    [Unknown Power: None]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Grim Fire  Level 1]


    [Mastery: 0/500 | Locked: Unable to increase mastery]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows for the host to wield the fabled mes of darkness, calling upon its destructive force to annihte all beings.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    _____


    Marius sighed and shook his head as he viewed their details before he inspected his own, causing the screen to popup up for his eyes.


    _____


    [Name: Marius Edgewick]


    [Status: Hidden - Inheritor of this status is born with umon abilities.]


    [Level: 0 | Age: 29]


    [Race: Human]


    [Stamina: Not Appcable]


    [Strength: Not Appcable]


    [Agility: Not Appcable]


    [Dexterity: Not Appcable]


    [Unknown Power: Not Appcable]


    [Mastery Points - 7665]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Strengthen All | Level 1 ]


    [Mastery: 0/500 | Locked: Unable to increase mastery]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the host to strengthen anything he wishes, abilities are increased by 1 level. Warning: Due to the current ''setting,'' and theck of Unknown Power, the host will have extreme side effects.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    ______


    Marius made a self-mocking smile as he saw his stats, he thought to himself, ''So what? We still can''t level up on Earth anyways; this might have just been a pointless blessing.''


    After Marius wrapped up his thoughts, he noticed that Grevlin was trying to hold a spoon, but the spoon soon twisted apart.


    Grevlin made a sad look, but Marius stared at him and spoke, "Hey,e on now, that''s not a bad try, at least you didn''t crush it likest time."


    Grevlin, hearing this nodded, feeling a little better, Marius then started to feed Grevlin, as this was the normal routine, one fed the youngest as the other fed the biggest.


    The scene here seems as peaceful as ever, the normal sight of a loving family. However, though simple, there were other things out of the norm.


    Suddenly, Little Rose whose eyes were droopy was having her mouth cleaned by Ria, but as this happened, her nose felt itchy.


    "Ha... Haa..." As if bottling up for a big sneeze, Little Rose closed her eyes and with her mouth wide open.


    Ria seeing this was rmed, but Marius was the first to act. He looked at Ria and shouted, "Ria, turn her to face me!"


    "Right!" Ria replied as she quickly faced Little Rose towards him, Marius then crossed his arms before him and invoked his skill, "Strengthen!"


    Crack! The sounds of bulging muscles were heard as his arms ripped through his suit, showing his densely packed muscles and veins.


    "Ac-chu!" Little Rose sneezed cutely, but sadly, the effect was no different from a disaster.


    ze! A purple fire spewed out of her mouth, enveloping Marius''s entire body. After a short while, the mes faded as Little Rose looked at the scene excitedly, pping her little arms as she spoke, "Yay-yay! Dadda is ying with the fire again!"


    Ria looked at her daughter and sighed while in thought, ''Oh... this little child of mine...''


    Grevlin wasn''t shocked; he was used to this scene; he continued to finish the bit of food that was still within in mouth while observing.


    Marius, whose body was fine except for his clothes, sighed before he spoke, "Oh, the joys of parenthood."


    Ria looked at Marius as the two stared at each other; they began tough due to the event. After they calmed down, Ria recalled something, she looked at Marius and asked, "Honey, so what''s been bothering you today?"


    Marius hesitated for a while, he sighed and looked at her before replying, "Well, dear, you see, about that job..."


    Ria made a knowing look as if she knew what he was about to say, before Marius could even finish his words, she looked at him and spoke with a tender look, "It''s okay, you don''t have to say it. Honey, it''s their loss, not yours, and certainly not ours. Even if poor, no matter where we are in this world, so long as we are together, we can always strive for a greater future."


    Marius felt touched hearing this; he knew his wife was understanding and felt even more proud that he could marry someone like her.


    Marius wanted to say something, but right at this time, not only himself and Ria, even Grevlin and Little Rose, felt a change.


    ''This feeling... I haven''t felt this feeling in a long time... but today, it feels different,'' Marius thought as he recalled feeling this mood, many times as a child growing up, only in hister years when he met Ria did it started to fade by a quite a bit.


    Suddenly, a massive glowing diagram with odd runes had appeared underneath Ria''s body, but as if it senses something peculiar, it immediately expanded surrounding everyone in the room.


    "Summon!" A cold and ruthless voice said, carrying within it an icy air that chills any man down to his bone.


    Ria hearing this turned pale, but before she could say anything, everyone in the family looked up in shock as they saw a hand that covered the entire room, a savage-looking dark purple arm with red nails.


    Just by looking at it, Marius felt a tinge of despair and knew that if they were caught by it, death would certainly follow.


    "I cannot let this happen!" Marius shouted as though he didn''t know what the hell was going on, he understood that he had a role to y as a husband and a father.


    He jumped onto his feet invoked his power once more, throwing a punch against the floor as his arm rippled with umon power. The concrete formed a slight depression with a loud banging noise, but it couldn''t stop the odd diagram.


    Marius felt despair, as he noticed that not only himself, but everyone in the room was glowing in a reddish light, and shrinking as they flowed towards the direction of the arm.


    "Noooo!" Marius cried out, but it was right at this moment a strange change urred.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You have encountered an unusual Summoning Gate connected to another world!]


    Ding!


    [Your Status has been unlocked! Activating summoningmand!]


    ____


    Following this notification that sounded in his mind, the Summoning Gate below them began to flicker with red and blue lights. Marius and his family now glowed in two different colors, as if confused.


    "An interference! Damn!" The cold voice snarled.


    However, before it could even do anything, the space around them had begun to warp. Instantly, Marius, Ria, and their children turned into small rays of light, they entered the warp in space and vanished from this world.

 Chapter 3: A New World, An Instant Threat!

    Chapter 3: A New World, An Instant Threat!


    It was an unfamiliar world, and that though limited from one''s current perspective, carried an air of boundlessness as if deep at its core was a plethora of endless mysteries.


    Deep in an ancient mountain range filled with a myriad of wild nts, unusual flowers, and towering trees whose branches extended towards unviewable heights. A soft mist lingered around the surroundings, hinting of the hour, which was approaching dawn.


    asionally, one would hear a few roars from unknown beasts. The shuffling of the underbrushes and vibrations from heavy steps added a kind of wild ir to the environment.


    Peering through this fading morning haze, one would see a few silhouettes that shuffled about the various distances, traversing this dangerous mountainnd. Some of a few familiar shapes, while others seemed bizarre.


    In this world, there weren''t many who would dare to wander here, as it all too known just what kind of disaster would await them if ventured through the depths of these mountains. Yet, despite this fact, it would seem that a poor unknowing family, is destined to fall prey to its boundaries.


    Buzz! Following an odd sound like space tearing, a rift formed within a region with aplicated-looking glowing diagram beneath it.


    Soon, four rays of lights flew out of the rift and fell on the diagram. It didn''t take long for these lights to expand rapidly, forming into the figures of four individuals as the warp in space and diagram faded after a sh of light.


    "Ack," Marius made a slight groan in pain, as he held the side of his head while thinking, ''Shit, the side effects are kicking in now...''


    He felt a feeling of tiredness, but as if something strange happened, a unique power from the surroundings, gushed into his body, allowing his fatigue and pain to ease by a section.


    Marius was surprised by this as he knew these effects from using his [Strengthen All Skill] would only worsen around this time. However, he didn''t have time to ponder it. He looked around in shock; never did he think he would have evere across such a scene. Nevertheless, with his abundant experience from his past professions, he promptly recovered and got to the matter at hand.


    "Ria, hurry, we must take the kids and find shelter immediately!" Marius said, making quick judgment after looking around this unfamiliar environment, he even fills a tinge of anxiousness due to the strange roars he was hearing.


    Marius had wanted to question Ria, as he recalled seeing her make a strange expression during the previous scene. However, he realized that right now was not the time.


    Like his father, Grevlin was also a mature child for his age and didn''t act in a major panic. He trembled a bit, edging as close as he could to Marius as he tried to hide his fear. He then looked up at his father and asked with worried eyes, "F-Father, where is this?"


    Marius, who heard Grevlin''s words, looked away from the surrounding''s seeing the fear in his eyes. He sighed, patting his head as he spoke, "Son, I don''t know, but right now we need to leave, let''s talk once we''ve found safety."


    Grevlin, hearing his father''s words, lowered his head before he looked at him with firm eyes, and replied, "Yes, father."


    Marius felt proud of his son''s ability to adapt to the situation, but as for his wife, he frowned as he didn''t hear her reply. Instead, he heard another sound.


    "Mama wake up! Mama! Dadda mamma is sick! Waaaa!"


    When Marius heard this, he turned around with shock on his face as he saw the adorable Little Rose seated on top of the copsed Ria while crying, her small arms rubbing the sides of her eyes helplessly.


    "Shit!" Marius unknowingly swore out loud but unable to take it back now, he picked up Grevlin and hurried over to Ria.


    Upon drawing nearby her, Marius ced his hand on her forehead and found that it was burning like a raging me.


    ''Of all times to have a fever, goddammit!'' Marius cursed inwardly with a look of helplessness, he ced Grevlin down and tried to coax Little Rose.


    "There-there now, my adorable little rose, look mother is fine, we only need to bring her to safety, can you be a sweet little rose and help daddy?" Marius asked in a soft tone as he wiped the corner of her eyes.


    Little Rose looked at Marius with her terrified eyes as she asked, "Really? Can dadda help mommy?"


    Though Marius knew time was going, he couldn''t just run off with her using force, it would be even worse if her cries called out a horde of unknown creatures. He nodded and replied, "Mm, when has pappa ever lied to you?"


    Little Rose seemed to have calmed down, she adorably stared at Marius and replied, "Okwwuaay."


    "Good girl," Marius said, prepared to take her up, and bring the entire family away. However, despite his effort to work quickly, it was already toote.


    Grol! A savage roar sounded from behind the entire family, filling every one of them with a terrible feeling. Even Marius felt that whatever was behind them was something he was in no way aplete match.


    With two heavy steps, Marius heard the stones behind them being crushed into rubble, further emphasizing the danger of the entity.


    Grevlin was so shocked that even with his mindset, he fell on to his rump while trembling. Little Rose, now in Marius''s arm, fearfully pointed at the thing behind Marius and spoke, "Dadda look! It''s a bwwig cat!"


    Marius sighed as he didn''t turn to face the beast, but look at his trembling son, he firmed up his mind and shouted, "Grevlin!"


    "Grevlin!... Grevilin!... Grevlin!" His reverberating inside of the trembling boy''s head, causing him to awaken to his senses.


    Grevlin, now awake from fear, looked at Marius, but then Marius only smiled and put down Little Rose as he spoke again, "Protect your sister and mother!"


    Grevlin, hearing this now understood the situation, being quite smart for his age he knew their position well. As an extremely obedient son who was very attached to his father; no matter what his father said, he would do it without much hesitation.


    A firm look came into Grevlin''s eyes as he stood on his feet and balled up his small palms into a fist when he replied, "Father, I will do my best!"


    Marius heard all needed to hear from Grevilin''s words, he ced Little Rose down and looked at her before he spoke, "Little Rose, papa will be busy, be a nice girl and stay close to brother."


    Little Rose was confused at first, but when Grevlin hurried over and held her shoulder, she looked at Marius and replied, "Okwaay."


    Marius wasted no more time; he turned around and walked towards the beast that was lurking behind them. As for why it didn''t attack immediately, it seemed that the creature was somewhat weary of Marius as it was eyeing him with cold and analytical eyes.


    It was a trait of any wild beast, to cautiously eye their opponents and strike when they are at an advantage. Some wouldn''t even waste a second, attacking directly to conquer their prey with brute force.


    A tiger was one such beast, the prestigious lord of any creature in the wilnds. It knew of its strength, knowing with full certainty that any prey targeted by it would fall by its paws; this was the basis of its confidence.


    However, this creature was, by all means, not an ordinary tiger. Its frame was more than triple of a typically grown tiger''s size, as its fur was ck. Looking at its rear, one would see two tails, and much like its two ruthless eyes, each of them had peculiar traits, one had mes that zed wildly as the other glowed in an icy light.


    The zing Ice ck Tiger, a truly sinister predator, found not only in this mountain range but in many others, though it was fairlymon, it was still a creature with excellent fame amongst those in the lower ranks.


    Naturally, Marius didn''t know of this creature''s fame. What he did know was that he had no options at this time. He needed to fight and eliminate the threat that can kill his family, no matter the cost!


    ''Think, think! There must be an away out of this situation!" Marius thought as he stared at the tiger that was ring at him with its two eyes, one filled with ice and the other with fire, its low growls sending a bad breath from its savage mouth spread across the surroundings, revealing its shimmering fangs.


    As if Marius recalled something, his mind had a light bulb effect as he thought, "Yes, that''s right, the system, I couldn''t use it on Earth, but maybe it will be different here..."


    Not wasting any time, Marius first used it to spy on the enemy before him. However, the moment he did so, he got an unexpected notification.


    _____


    Ding!


    [Your power is far lower than the enemy, details can''t be inspected!]


    _____


    Marius frowned, he calmed down and decided to check his stats, but right then, another notification popped up before him.


    _____


    Ding!


    [Host has invoked the personal stats system in a new world, optimizing power conversion!]


    Ding!


    [Power conversionplete, because of your Status, your Level has automatically been increased by 1!]


    Ding!


    [Your Mystic Power has been awakened, G RANK!]


    Ding!


    [All base stats has awakened G RANK!]


    _____


    When Marius heard this notification, his eyes beamed with joy, but this didn''tst long. He saw that the zing Ice ck Tiger, which was eyeing him cautiously, had started to push power into its hind legs, causing the ground to form a depression.


    ''Hmph! I don''t give a shit how powerful you are, threatening my family is seeking your death!'' When Marius thought this, his face turned malevolent. He already knew what he needed to do fight the beast, he called up his Inborn Skill Screen andmanded with his mind, ''Use all Mastery Points!''


    A savage power began to form around him, causing the air to grow more chilly as the misty wind blew across the area, acting as the setup for Marus and his family''s first real battle in a brand new world.

 Chapter 4: Clash of Man and Beast, The Victors Lament

    Chapter 4: sh of Man and Beast, The Victor''s Lament


    In a remote area of this dangerous mountain range, a loud sound of wood being cut resounded from its deepest regions. Each time it sounded, the earth would vibrate as a towering tree in the distance would fall to the ground, the rustling sound of hedges, nts, and crushed objects simrly sounding.


    Many times, a few unusual creatures more powerful than even the zing Ice ck Tiger gazed towards the deepest direction in horror before they scampered off to different sectors. Nevertheless, the scene merely continued, as if the person cutting wood did not need to concern themselves with those in the area.


    Traveling beyond the endless sight of trees and underbrushes that spanned the mountain range, one woulde across an open field that stood at the edge of a clearke. Here, a simple wooden house was built at its center, with a few neatly chopped logs piled up together at its side, resting on the trimmed grass.


    At this time, the sounds of cutting had ended as a rustling sound was heard as if somethingrge was being drawn by something. Momentster, a person appeared from the mists that shrouded a fraction of the field, leaving an area of towering trees.


    Giving him a closer look, they would notice that he was an older man with arge ax in one hand. He had a thick-beared with ck and white hair and wore simple trousers with his shirt wrapped around his waist, revealing hisrge potbelly and muscr arms.


    A crest was on his chest, but as if something was burned over it, one could hardly make it out. The old mountain man made his way to the house, carrying a massive tree trunk that he pulled in effortless mana.


    His brown eyes were staring before him at a few glowing sprites that flew about in the sky, leaving trailing lines of magical power.


    The old mountain man smiled as he spoke to himself, "Today is such a wonderful day, even the mountain spirits are joyful."


    Not long after, he arrived at the location of the logs and shrugged his shoulder, causing the tree to fall on the ground with a loud vibration.


    The old mountain man then cracked his knuckles, setting himself into a strange position as he lifted only one arm into the air as the ax was hoisted above his head.


    The mist soon faded, revealing a sharp ray that caused its edge to glisten as the man''s arm swelled up with many veins as if he was about to use some strange method.


    Soon though, the man''s eyes narrowed as he nced towards a rtively distant section of this mountain range. As if he sensed something, the man frowned as he thought, ''A disturbance, here? Odd, let''s see which brat has gotten so brave in these recent years.''


    Immediately after his thoughts, the mountain man vanished from his location, as if he was no different from the air itself. A cool wind blew from here, pushing away more of the mists as the morning was slowlying into effect.


    ****


    Back within the region of the impending battle between Marius and the zing Ice ck Tiger, the tension was dense enough for any knife to split it apart, causing even the very atmosphere to have tinge at bloodlust.


    Bang! As the zing Ice ck Tiger''s body erupted with terrifying zing Ice Mystic Power, the ground below its feet formed fissures as a ripple scattered across the area, pushing away some remnant stones.


    One stone had passed Marius''s location, moving at a rate he couldn''t stop, but he didn''t dare to look back; he knew of his son''s strength and a stone like that wouldn''t be able to kill him.


    As if correct, Grevlin, who saw the stone blowing towards them, was rmed at first, but as he saw his mother lying on the ground in a sickly state and heard Little Rose cry of rm, his eyes turned sharp.


    "Break!" Grevlin shouted as he struck one of his cursed arms that he''s hated for many years towards the boulder, his arm causing it to explode with a bang as it scattered about before him.


    Grevlin was a bit surprised, but he didn''t have time to express it as he heard something in his mind.


    _____


    Ding!


    [Host has expressed the will to fight, Host has unconsciously activated their hidden potential, conditions for awakening has been met!]


    Ding!


    [Host''s maturity is not yet at the standard for maximum growth, limiting effects of awakening! All core conditions will be activated as the Host progresses on the path of adulthood.]


    _____


    "Huh? What''s this?" Grevlin spoke out loud due to his surprise, but as this situation was dangerous, he no longer focused on it and allowed the transformation to ur.


    Much like Grevlin, Marius, who was bearing the brunt of the tiger''s aura, was also transforming on his own.


    _____


    Ding!


    [Inborn Skill: Strengthen All has achieved Level 2]


    [Remaining Mastery Points: 7165]


    Ding!


    [Inborn Skill: Strengthen All has achieved Level 3]


    [Remaining Mastery Points: 6165]


    Ding!


    [Inborn Skill: Strengthen All has achieved Level 4]


    [Remaining Mastery Points: 4165]


    Ding!


    [Inborn Skill: Strengthen All has achieved Level 5]


    [Remaining Mastery Points: 0]


    ...


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Strengthen All | Level 5]


    [Mastery: 165/8000]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the Host to strengthen anything he wishes, current effects on battle power are limited to an increase of Five  Stars.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, this technique can be utilized at maximum capacity for 4 Minutes, exceeding this limit will cause severe side effects.]


    _____


    Growl! The zing Ice ck Tiger, having conjured enough power, roared as it charged towards Marius like a blurry shade.


    Marius didn''t bother to waste time to check the details of his skills, he promptly utilized his skill the instant it had started its charge.


    ''Strengthen All!'' Marusmanded with his mind, his body then began to erupt an astonishing amount of white-colored Mystic Power, it was to such a scale that even the charging tiger had a look of shock in its eyes.


    However, that look didn''tst for long; its eyes became cold, as it knew that right now, it should use everything it had to finish its prey. In merely a few seconds, it had appeared in front of Marius. It then opened its mouth and bite towards his upper torsor with its sharp-looking fangs.


    Marius looked at the tiger that was even bigger than himself solemnly, his body arched in abat stance as his arms, legs, torso, neck, and just about every part had expanded by a section, filled with hard looking muscles and veins. His skin tone turned a darker shade, almost as if he transitioning from white to bronze or copper.


    "Get lost!" Marius yelled as he tackled the tiger directly, as he wasn''t prepared with any weapons during his transmission, he could now only adapt to fighting in a primitive manner.


    Boom! Both man and beast collided, creating earth-shaking sounds, the ground shook for a second before returning to normal.


    As Marius''s Mystic Power shed against the zing Ice Mystic Power of the tiger, these energies ravaged the ground around them for a few meters, as even Grevlin, who had retreated with his mother and Little Rose, had only barely escaped its range.


    Marius, who was wrestling the zing Ice ck Tiger, struggling to push it back vaguely noticed this scene. He grew even more enraged as his eyes turned slightly red as he gripped the tiger firmly with his arms wrapping around its head.


    The zing Ice ck Tiger felt danger, but before it could act, Marius had already kicked the ground with his leg. Instantly, the two were propelled into the air as Marius spun around like a spinning top while descending, smashing the zing Ice ck Tiger''s head into the ground, as if doing a superior suplex.


    The zing Ice ck Tiger''s eyes carried a tinge of dizziness when its head smashed into the ground; blood was even dripping from the corner of its mouth.


    Marius, who used his strength to perform the suplex, didn''t felt better, as he had suffered from the brunt of the impact. He spat out a bit of blood, as he pulled away from the zing Ice ck Tiger, staring at it with a hint of caution as he prepared to finish it off.


    However, right at this time, Marius saw that the tiger''s dizzy eyes grew fiercer, it was as if it wasn''t willing to ept death.


    GROWWWLLL!


    The zing Ice ck Tiger made a world-shaking roar as it raised its head body from the ground, ignoring its serious wounds and ring at Marius with blood-red eyes. Looking at it now, one would even notice that clumps of zing Ice were conjured around its ws.


    "Damn, such a persistent animal! Why isn''t it leaving? Isn''t it normal for animals to escape when it feels threatened?" Marius cursed as he saw this creature going berserk. He knew he had to give it one more shot and end it in one blow.


    The two looked at each other, as a soft wind blew across the field, rustling their hairs. Moments after, they blurred and charged towards each other, quickly arriving within each other''s range.


    "Die!"


    Roar!


    The cry of man and beast sounding through this part of the mountain range, as they crashed into each other once more.


    Marius''s fist smashed onto the jaw of the zing Ice ck Tiger, as the tiger''s paws cut a huge wound on Marius''s chest, sinking into his skin as the zing Ice Mystic Power ravaged his body.


    "Ack!" Marius groaned in pain, but he sucked up the feeling and struck out his other arm.


    "Ahhh!" With a battle cry to rouse his fighting spirit, Marius, struck with everything he had, the white-colored Mystic Power conjuring around its fist instinctively. His body at this moment gave off an astonishing pressure.


    Crack! The moment his fist collided with the head of the tiger, a snapping noise sounded as it leaned itself at a strange angle.


    Marius looked at this in relief, as they copsed on the ground, but couldn''t help but feel shocked as he saw that the tiger still had a trace of life within it. Despite having its neck broken, and on the verge of death, it red at him as if sending him a deep warning.


    Not long after, the light faded as it finally entered true death. The moment this happened, Marius heard a series of notifications in his mind.


    _____


    Ding!


    [You have defeated a monster that was considerably stronger than you, converting creatures life force into EXP.]


    Ding!


    [You have leveled up!]


    Ding!


    [You have leveled up!]


    Ding!


    [Your level has arrived at Level 3, your power has advanced by One Star, achieving the rank of a G Warrior!


    Ding!


    [You have awakened the Battle Rank status bar!]


    ____


    Marius didn''t bother to think about his current change. He still didn''t understand why this tiger would act in such a manner. While he was in thought, Grevlin, who saw that the situation had stabilized, had hurriedly approached with his mother and sister.


    The way he held them was peculiar, as he locked them with his elbows rather than his with his palms, which was to ensure he didn''t identally hurt them with his strength.


    "Father, are you fine?" Grevlin asked in worry.


    "Dadda! Are you okay?" The adorable Little Rose asked from Grevlin''s arms.


    Marius had an exhausted look, the blood on his chest visible as traces of fire and ice was still rampant. He shook his head and looked at his children before he replied, "Don''t worry, father is fine..."


    Grevlin looked at him a bit suspiciously, but he decided not to say anything.


    Little Rose, however, asked in a worried tone, "Realy? But... But... Papa... Papa''s cut is bad!"


    Marius sucked up the pain and brushed his chest, the mes died down, but the internal damage was still in effect. However, he didn''t want to show weakness in this kind of setting; he also didn''t want to stay here any longer.


    "Right, nowe on, let us hurry and..." Marius was about to say something, but he soon heard her eximed, "Wow, little cwats!"


    Grevlin also looked in the direction wide eyes, Marius followed their sights and finally found the reason for the tiger''s stubbornness. There, two small tigers were crawling from a distant hedge, they looked at the fallen zing Ice ck Tiger with worry as if trying to hurry over, but as they were recently born, they were stumbling as they moved.


    "This just leaves a bad taste in my mouth..." Marius said with a sigh, he no longer looked at them, looking at his children that had beaming eyes as he spoke, "Kids, we have to go, we can''t stay here any longer."


    When Marius said this, he didn''t even wait for their reply, he grabbed Ria from Grevlin''s hand and lifted up Little Rose before walking away.


    Grevlin promptly followed behind, but Little Rose had a sad look when she spoke, "Dadda, I want a small cat..."


    Marus sighed hearing this, he looked around carefully, and didn''t see any threat, he figured that as the tiger was the overlord of this area, it might have deterred other threats. He was about to hurry to pick one up, but the very moment he turned around, his eyes opened wide in shock as he saw that a stranger had appeared.

 Chapter 5: The Mysterious Mountain Ax Senior

    Chapter 5: The Mysterious Mountain Ax Senior


    Marius stared at the strange old man that looked no different from a bear, being one headrger than even himself. The old man was currently looking at the fallen tiger, his expression showing curiosity as he shifted it from the corpse towards Marius and his family.


    "Hoho... well this is a first, I''ve never seen anyone at the beginning stages of power, fight and defeat an F Rank zing Ice ck Tiger. You, young fellow, are not the ordinary man..." The old man spoke with a smile.


    Marius narrowed his eyes at those words, even though the man seemed normal, for someone like this to exist in this kind of mountain, he was far from simple. He thought to himself, ''Who is this elder? He could even sneak up on us without even drawing my attention, never has this happened before on Earth?''


    Marius was an elite EX Assassin during his earlier years back on Earth, raised to kill from childhood, his skills so superior, that no matter which tasks were given to him, he could aplish them with ease due to his astounding natural gifts.


    Because of this, he only felt a chill in his heart when looking at this old man; he tried his best to calm down and spoke with a poker face, "Who are you?"


    The old man chuckled and replied calmly, "Me? Ah yes, I''ve been in these mountains for so long, that I''ve forgotten my decorum. Do please forgive this old mountain man for his behavior. My name... heh, I''ve grown so old that I''ve already forgotten such a simple thing. Hmm why not call me the Mountain Ax Senior?"


    Marius frowned and nodded; it seemed that the opposite party wasn''t interested in fighting. Since it was so, he was able to now calmed down a bit, but his caution was still in full effect.


    Right when he was about to ask what he wanted from them, he felt a slight tremble from one of his arms and noticed that the adorable Little Rose was shaking while fearfully looking away from the old man.


    "Eh? My Little Rose, what''s wrong?" Marius asked no longer paying attention to the Mountain Ax Senior.


    Little Rose ced her head onto his chest, not daring to look at the Mountain Ax Senior as she spoke, "Dadda! He... He''s scwwary!"


    Marius was puzzled by this, he looked at her carefully and nced at the Mountain Ax Senior, but as he saw that the man revealed no aura, he was intrigued why his daughter felt so scared. Still, being intrigued was only one thing, right now he knew he had a more important task to do.


    "There-there, father is here; you don''t need to be scared of anyone..." Marius said, trying to coax her, but this only ended up making her feel sleepy.


    "Dadda... I''m sleepy..." Little Rose said, her eyes turning droopy, it seemed that the previous affairs had been far too much for her young mind and body. She nestled her headfortably on his chest. Soon, she fell asleep, falling into the world of dreams.


    Marius smiled as he saw this, gently patting her back as he whispered to her, "Good girl, don''t worry, once you wake up, all will be fine again."


    While Marius focused on his daughter, the Mountain Ax Senior had a strange look in his eyes as he looked at the little girl, even more so when he nced at the beauty in Marius''s arms that wore a hat. When his eyes stared at the hat, they narrowed as if he saw something, he then looked downward at the frightened Grevlin that hid behind Marius, peeking from behind him.


    "Such a peculiar wife and little children you have there... truly an interestingbination indeed. In all my years of living in this world, you, my young friend, are the only man alive to have such a family," Mountain Ax Senior said in a strange tone.


    Marius who now looked up, didn''t like how the old man was talking; he gently held Little Rose as he patted Grevlin on his head when he directly faced him and asked, "What is it do you want from us?"


    Mountain Ax Senior chuckled as he saw Marius''s weariness, he spoke, "Your worries are unwarranted; Ie with no intention to bring you or your family harm..."


    Though Marius heard that and knew it was true, he still didn''t let his guard down. The Mountain Ax Senior shook his head and shifted his eyes from then and stared at the sky, noticing that the mists had already faded, revealing the clear blue sky and the endless greenery of the mountain.


    He then spoke again, "Morning has now graced us in its full splendor, it''s a wonderful sight, but my dear young stranger, I think it would be wise of you to follow me, for you won''t be able to survive this mountain range for long, especially with those two children and that wife of yours. Heh, you are fortunate to only encounter only this kind ofmon beasts after being summoned here..."


    When the Mountain Ax Senior said this, he made a willy smile before turning around and walking away at a steady pace, no different from a standard old man hiking through a steep path.


    Marius looked at his back in shock, especially when he heard the man saying, ''summoned,'' in his statement. He narrowed his eyes while thinking, ''How could he know this? Could it be that he was watching all along and saw when we appeared from the portal? Or is it that he''s merely able to perceive something from us that we cannot?''


    As if he wanted to confirm something, Marius'' eyes turned sharp when hemanded with his mind, "Inspect Status!"


    ____


    Ding!


    [Entity''s power is vastly superior to the Host''s, scanning will be extremely dangerous and may result in the Entity''s suspicion.]


    ____


    When Marius saw this, he didn''t show surprise, he already had an idea that it would turn out like this, but he still tried his luck.


    Though the old man was leaving; it is evident that he was waiting on them to follow along as if he wanted to leave, he would vanish into thin air.


    Marius gritted his teeth before deciding with his mind, ''Dammit! Now isn''t the time to think, he didn''t show ill intentions, and it''s obvious that he''s many times stronger than myself. If possible, I can use this chance to gather information about this world, only then can I speak with Ria and plot our next course.''


    As Marius thought of Ria, he nced at his unconscious wife in his arms, he sighed seeing her in pain but knew this must, of course, be some strange effect from her secrets.


    ''I''ll need to question her really good after she''s awoken from this state...'' Marius thought, but he no longer wasted any time, he nced at Grevlin who still stood behind him and spoke, "Come on Grevlin, let''s go."


    "O-okay father," Grevlin replied as he promptly followed behind Marius, who hurriedly walked over to the slowly leaving old man.


    While walking Grevlin couldn''t help but notice the two tiger cubs had arrived nearby, he hesitantly nced at them, seeing that one of them had white fur with two tiny ck lumps on its back, as the other had ck fur with two tails and two white lumps on its back.


    ''I''ll just carry them since there here...'' Grevlin thought as he picked up the adorable pups and hurried to catch up with his father.


    Soon, the newly arrived family had vanished along with the mountain man, fading into the bushes as they made their way to the deepest parts of this unknown mountain range.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 6: The World of Valoria

    Chapter 6: The World of Valoria


    Sometimeter, Marius and his family had arrived at the oddly peaceful and scenic area within this strange mountain range, as both Ria and Little Rose weren''t conscious, only Marius and his son Grevlin stared around with wonderment as they took in the sights.


    "Father look! It''s a small house!" Little Grevlin said as he pointed at the wooden house with logs, resting at the center of the verdant open field.


    Marius took in the brilliant god rays that beamed through the cracks of a few trees, and even the colorful butterflies and birds that glided with the winds, the fresh air giving him an uplifting feeling, he felt as if this world was apart of him as if this was his authentic home.


    When he heard his son''s words, Marius smiled looking at this house as he spoke, "Yes, it is indeed a wonderful ce my son, one day I''ll make a ce like this just for us."


    Grevlin''s eyes beamed as he heard this, he looked up at Marius and spoke with a bright smile, "Really? Hehe, then father, I can''t wait!"


    As he said this, the two adorable tiger cubs brought in his elbows looked around fearfully as they made ''yip-yip'' noises.


    Marius only now looked at what was in Grevlin''s hand; he sighed as he thought to himself, ''So, he did bring them. Oh heck fine, I guess we can raise them, after all, I was the one who took their mother from them...''


    Having thought this, Marius looked at saw that the Mountain Ax Senior had halted his steps, he then nced at them and spoke with a smile, "Hoho... wee everyone, I wee you to my humble abode, do please feel free to make yourself at home here for the time being. Nowe with me, let me find you a room for your wife and sleeping child..."


    When the Mountain Ax Senior finished his words, he walked forward, passing a giant looking ax embedded within a thick stump.


    Marius''s eyes flickered as he saw how bright the light was gleaming from its edge; he even noticed a few unusual markings on its surface from someplexnguage.


    ''As expected, theirnguage isn''t going to be such a sim...'' Marius was about to think something, but right then and there, his mind had a notification sound as a screen popped up in his eyes.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Host has encountered unknownnguage, Status is now in effect,mencing Language Comprehension!]


    Ding!


    [Congrattions, you''ve learned the ????nguage!]


    Ding!


    [???Star Mystic Earth Cleaver]


    [Description: May its shine bring glory to the descendants of Artima, and its edge doom to all its adversaries!]


    ____


    Marius was surprised as he saw this, he didn''t think that it would still work as such even in another world. He smiled while contemting, ''To think that it can even trantenguages from another world, but then again it was always a strange thing, it''s only natural that its oddities aren''t confined to my limited imagination.''


    Though Marius was in thought, he didn''t halt his steps and promptly followed the Mountain Ax Senior into his abode. Once inside, he noticed that it had a simple but effective setup, a stove made of stone, a firece, furniture of wood with neatly carved engravings, and furs belonging to unknown creatures.


    Though it wasn''t substantial, it had enough space to at least amodate five or six individuals, with three private rooms.


    The Mountain Ax Senior carried Marius to the room upstairs, before he turned and looked at him and spoke, "Come see me downstairs once you''ve tucked them in, I''m sure you have questions that you''ll like to have answered."


    Marius stared at the old man before speaking, "Why are you even helping us?"


    The Mountain Ax Senior soon took on a different look as his eyes grew a bit distant, he stared at a window nearby as if trying to find something that''s now long since lost as he replied, "Let''s just say, you and I share simr fates..."


    After speaking his words, he didn''t even wait to hear Marius''s reply, slowly leaving the upper rooms as he headed down to the main floor.


    Marius observed him not knowing what to say, but Grevlin, who stood by his side, looked up at him and spoke, "Father, are we putting mother and sister down to rest?"


    Marius smiled as he replied, "Yes, but Grevlin, I want you to look after them for a little while, I''ll need to have a grown-up talk with the Mountain Ax Senior."


    When Grevlin heard this, he nodded and obediently replied, "Okay."


    "Come now, let''s set them down," Marius said, entering the simple-looking room, he first gently put down Ria, using one hand to fix her position correctly.


    While doing this, he notices that her face was slightly pale, as if she was in a lot of pain, but was oddly still unconscious. He tried to touch her forehead, but at this, a strange scene urred.


    ze! A small clump of purple mes scorched his arm, turning it ck before receding. Marius didn''t show a change in expression; this wasn''t the first time she had these kinds of re-ups; she did so during her times of having fevers. What was strange was her falling unconscious and not waking up despite being in this state.


    ''I really hope its nothing serious...'' Marius thought as he looked at her with a hint of worry on his face, but he didn''t dare to do so for long, he didn''t want Grevlin to see him like such.


    He gently ced down little rose on a different bed, as it would be far too dangerous for her to rest beside Ria. After tucking the little angel in, he nced at Grevlin and spoke, "I''m going now, take good care of them, and remember not to touch your mother, okay?"


    "Yes, father," Grevlin replied with a look of understanding.


    Marius rubbed his head before leaving the room and heading downstairs, once he arrived on the base floor, he saw that the Mountain Ax Senior was outside, sitting by the side of his ax.


    When Marius left the house, the Mountain Ax Senior looked over towards him with a smile as he spoke, "Now then, young fellow, tell me which world do you hail from?"


    Marius hearing this knew that his initial conjecture was right, the old man did seem to know of his secret. He calmed down and sat on the grass as he spoke, not denying it, "How do you know this?"


    The Mountain Ax Senior smirked as he spoke, "Haha, answering a question with a question, you''re not that nice of a person now are you? Tsk, okay young one, I can tell you, but you''ll have to answer my question afterward, do we have an agreement?"


    Marius thought before nodding andplying, "Fine."


    The Mountain Ax Senior then proceeded to remove his shirt, once he did this, he pointed at a marking of a crest on his skin, one that seemed to have been burnt off.


    Marius was a bit puzzled, but he said nothing and only observed in silence.


    The Mountain Ax Senior then spoke, "Do you see this mark? It is known as the Crest of Artima, a mark embedded on the skin of some living beings born in the world of Valoria. Like me, each bearer of this crest can be considered a descendant of Artima, beings called Artimans. In this world, there are dozens of other races, divided from Common Race, Higher Race, tostly, the Ultimate Race. Our Artimans Race is one of the three Ultimate Races, separate from the unique Spirians Race, and those belonging to the diabolical Hellians Race. Each race has their own defining features, and each of these traits is capable of being felt by those of another kind."


    Marius felt that the old man''s speech was a little long-winded, but he didn''t say anything, he keenly listened and already had an idea about what he was implying.


    The Mountain Ax Senior seeing Marius''s look smirked and finished his statement, "As you should have already guessed, I was able to tell that you especially are not from this world because I do not sense the Crest of Artima on your body. The other thing is unlike the rest of your family, you do not bear the horns nor innate aura of the Hellians. "


    When Marius heard this, he was shocked, but not by the way he could identify him as an - Other Worlder. Instead, his mind rang when he recalled the words - unlike the rest of your family.


    ''This... could it be that they are actually from a race in this world? Wait... he spoke about their horns, then would Ria have some rtion to that strange race?'' Marius thought as a strange look appeared in his eyes, he wanted to ponder some more, but the Mountain Ax Senior nced at him and spoke.


    "There you have it young one; now I believe it''s your turn to answer my questions, do tell me, which world do you hail from?" The Mountain Ax Senior asked with curious eyes.


    The scene now turned strange, as a cool wind blew across the fields, scattering petals from roses as they glided about the vicinity.

 Chapter 7: An Odd Summoning, Mariuss Determination

    Chapter 7: An Odd Summoning, Marius''s Determination


    When Marius heard the words of the Mountain Ax Senior, he didn''t even hesitate to speak directly; he didn''t care about his intentions for Earth; he only cared about himself and his family. He spoke on Earth''s features and differences and any other tidbits, to see if he knew about his world.


    The Mountain Ax Senior, when hearing this frowned as he shook his head and spoke, "Well now, I''ve never heard of a warrior being summoned from that world before. I met a few summoned warriors many years ago, and the most famous amongst them have alle from ces that are recorded in our Artiman Records. This Earth World is an unknown to factor to the Summoners System..."


    Marius narrowed his eyes at this; he pondered, ''So, if even he doesn''t know our world, who could have possibly had the power and knowledge to summon us to thesends? Is this purely rted to Ria? Or myself?''


    When Marius thought here, he had recalled that during the summoning something weird had urred to Ria, but even before then, for as long as he could remember, he could sense the same feeling of something calling him.


    The Mountain Ax Senior made a puzzled look before he asked again, "Then tell me young one, how were you summoned here? I need to know the exact happenings from your summoning..."


    Marius also didn''t hold back this information; he didn''t know anything about anything, it''s better to let someone with more knowledge enlighten you on things you don''t understand.


    When the Mountain Ax Senior heard Marius described the formation, his expression remained normal, but as he heard about the dark hand that had momentarily appeared, his face sunk.


    "This... how can this be?" The Mountain Ax Senior eximed as his eyes showed a serious look.


    Marius seeing this look felt uneasy, he knew his summoning wasn''t so simple. He didn''t ask, but wait for him to exin the circumstances.


    As expected, it only took a short moment for the Mountain Ax Senior to regain his bearings. However, the look shown to Marius was now different, it had a serious vibe as he spoke, "Young one, your calling here is most definitely an intentional summoning, but it wasn''t one that was meant for you. I don''t know who your wife is, but I can tell that you right now that she is a Hellian, and not an ordinary one. Typically, a single-horned Hellian isn''t enough to warrant any major status, but the fact that a being of that level could send her to your world and summon her back is enough to imply that her background is no simple thing. I highly rmend that you speak with her once her body has finished its Re-Initiation Phase."


    When Marius heard his words, he nodded, epting his suggestion, he had already nned on speaking with her once she awakened. However, there was one thing he heard that didn''t quite register with him, he nced at the Mountain Ax Senior and questioned, "You said Re-Initiation Phase, what do you mean by that statement?"


    The Mountain Ax Senior nced at the direction of the house and replied, "It''s simple, those sent to another world, though are transferred in entirety, experience the same process of reincarnation. As such, whatever she had in this world would be reset once send to another world, the opposite would naturally hold through once she returns, the very things she''s once lost woulde back to her, but her previousbat power and skills shall all be reset to the initial stages."


    Marius thought for a bit and spoke, "Is this something with serious side effects?"


    The Mountain Ax Senior shook his head and replied, "In normal cases, it wouldn''t be, but all in all it depends on the person. They might be weak for a short period. Still, as they''ve already trained in their paths powering up would be significantly faster, they might even show strides and achieve a higher level of power than they''d initially possess in the long run."


    Marius didn''t care about anything else, the only thing that registered in his mind was that nothing would happen to his wife, and she was safe. He heaved a sigh of relief while showing a grateful look to the Mountain Ax Senior and spoke in a softer tone than before, "I thank the elder for his guidance."


    The Mountain Ax Senior made a heartyugh as he heard this and spoke, "Hoho... so you do have manners, that''s good, at least you know when to give this old man some face."


    Marius had an embarrassed look; it wasn''t that he didn''t have manners; he simply didn''t trust the stranger and was merely cautious about his agenda; even now, he still had a tinge of alertness around him.


    The Mountain Ax Senior looked at him for a while before he rose to his feet and spoke, "Well, I''d say that''s enough of a greeting, you should go back and take a look at your family. To learn more about this world and its customs, you can refer to my study in the leftmost room downstairs; there''s also an assortment of survival techniques and battle skills that mighte in handy, you can ponder upon them until you and your wife havee up with a decision."


    After saying this, the Mountain Ax Senior stood up and stared at Marius for a little while before taking a few steps forward, headed towards the house.


    Marius now sat alone within this lush field, his face calm as the cool wind rustled his hair, shifting it to the side as he contemted, ''Ria... who are you in this world?''


    As Marius thought he couldn''t help but recall the scenes of how they met, the images of how a beauty had suddenly appeared out of nothingness, falling into his wounded arms after a dreadful battle as he silentlyid and awaited death in a sea of corpses.


    However, as if Marius didn''t want to overthink this, he shook his head and pushed down his unnecessary thoughts, ''It doesn''t matter, I epted her as she was despite our sudden chancing, there''s no need to overly worry about the unknown, we''ll get through it when ites to it. In this unfamiliarnd where creatures such as those beasts and persons like that old man can exist, there is only one thing that I should be focused on doing.''


    When Marius thought here, his eyes shed with a firm ray as he stood up and gripped his fists, causing his muscle to bulge as he spoke to pep himself up, ''I must grow stronger, strong enough to survive these dangers and carve out a ce within it for my family.''


    As if the world heard his determination, the wind grew stronger, bushing up the scattered leaves and petals as it sent about the mountain range, some even gliding towards the clearke at the opposing ends of the house.


    The Mountain Ax Senior smirked as he nced at him before continuing on his way, his mind resonating with Marius''s words he contemted, ''Well said, young one...''


    Having now rebuild his mood, Marius soon took the chance to ponder his changes, ''Hmm, if I recall correctly, I had quite a few changes when I arrived here, and another transformation after I had bested that creature. Let''s take a look, Show Status...''


    ____


    [Name: Marius Edgewick]


    [Status: Chosen Born - Inheritor of this status is born with umon abilities.]


    [Level: 3 | Age: 29]


    [Race: Human]


    [Battle Rank: G Rank Warrior]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: G]


    [Mastery Points - 2]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Strengthen All | Level 5]


    [Mastery: 165/8000]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the Host to strengthen anything he wishes, current effects on battle power are limited to an increase of Five  Stars.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, this technique can be utilized at maximum capacity for 4 Minutes, exceeding this limit will cause severe side effects.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    ____


    When Marius saw his status, he made an in-depth look as he pondered, ''I am really at Level 3, but I don''t know what this G Warrior signifies, how does it weigh against the strength of those other warriors and creatures in this world? I also don''t see an EXP bar; it seems that EXP in this world isn''t necessarily as I''d assume it, I''ll need to find some time to experiment a bit and see how all of this works.''


    Having arranged his thoughts, Marius then rose to his feet and turned towards the small wooden house. He then took a step forward with a strange flicker in his eyes as he pondered, ''Since I''ve had chances, I''ll need to check on the children and see if anything''s different about them...''


    While in thought, he soon left the fields and once more entered the building, heading up towards the room to meet with his family.

 Chapter 8: The Familys Change

    Chapter 8: The Family''s Change


    When Marius entered the room, he noticed that his son Grevlin yed with the two tiger cubs. However, while he couldn''t hold them with his fingers for fear of injuring them, he still used a sturdy object to poke and tickle them as they rolled over on their backs, kicking their small little legs into the air.


    "Hehe... they''re so cute," Grevlin said with an innocentugh as heid on his belly with his legs raised behind him, his adorable face filled with joy.


    Marius smiled as he saw this; he took the chance to inspect his stats and details quickly.


    _____


    [Name: Grevlin Edgewick]


    [Level: 1 | Age: 10]


    [Status: Stage 1 Growth Lock - Leveling cap is limited to 10, due to physical immaturity.]


    [Race: Human + Hellian]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Msytic Power: G]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Passive Strengthen  Arms | Level 1]


    [Mastery: 150/500]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the host to strengthen their arms passively, the ability will increase in mastery for each use and non-use over time.]


    [Effects: Harden''s arm and increase its strength by Two  Stars, because of the host''s current Mystic Power, there are no side effects to this technique.]


    ....


    [Call of Darkness | Level 1]


    [Mastery: 0/500]


    [Description - The ability to call upon an entity of darkness, each entity is subject to the master''s whim and are duty-bound to protect the master.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, the host can only summon Grade 1 Dark Entities.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    _____


    Marius looked at these wide eyes, he knew his son was stronger now that came to this world, but he didn''t think it would have been so absurd.


    ''It looks like his arms are even more dangerous than I''d imagine. Its ability to dish out two times the damage even at Level 1 is simply beyond all reason. I wonder, how does his talentpare to those of this world? Would our inborn abilities be considered as standard or high grade?'' Marius thought as he nced at Grevlin''s arms that were currently a shade darker, slowly transitioning to a ckish-red hue.


    ''It looks like I''ll also need to find ways to hide his arms if they keep growing darker than it already is, this might lead to more trouble than necessary,'' Marius assessed silently.


    By this time, Little Grevlin, who was ying with the tiger cubs, lifted his head and saw his father giving him a gentle look.


    His eyes beamed as he hurried ran forward and spoke in an innocent tone, "Father, I''m bored; I want to y a game."


    Marius was pulled out of his thoughts, he stared at the cute little brat and stooped down before he spoke, "You want to y a game?"


    "Hm, yes!" Grevlin said with a smile.


    Marius replied in a teasing tone, "As you wish, Papa knows the best one, we''ll y - Try not tough."


    Grevlin was a bit confused at first, but as Marius began to tickle him, he fidgeted andughed out loud, "Hahaha! Father! Hahaha! Stop! Hahaha!"


    While Marius tickled his son, he shifted his eyes onto the sleeping Little Rose andmanded to see her stats within his mind.


    ____


    [Name: Rose Edgewick]


    [Level: 1 | Age: 3]


    [Race: Human + Hellian]


    [Status: Stage 1 Growth Lock - Leveling cap is limited to 10, due to physical immaturity.]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Msytic Power: G]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Grim Fire  Level 1]


    [Mastery: 0/500 |]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the host to wield the fabled mes of darkness, calling upon its destructive force to annihte all beings.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, the host can only summon Grade 1 Grim Fire.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    ____


    Marius frowned as he thought, ''Another Growth Lock, it seems they won''t be able to Level beyond 10, not until they''ve arrived at maybe 11, 12, or maybe 13. Even at such a level once their inborn skills grow, they will only continue to grow more powerful than anyone in their current stage. I can teach Grevlin about control, but Little Rose might need more time away from others...''


    Having contemted Little Rose, Marius nced at his sleeping wife and sent the samemand, but at this time, he got a different response.


    _____


    Ding!


    [The Host is under the Re Initiation Process, details are limited.]


    ...


    [Name: Ria Zorith]


    [Level: 3 | Age: 25]


    [Race: Hellian]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Msytic Power: G]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [????: Awakening]


    [Description - ???]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: ]


    [????: Awakening]


    [????: Sealed]


    [????: Sealed]


    _____


    ''Her strength must have been quite the rank, even most of her abilities are still sealed, leaving only her inborn ability and one skill in the process of awakening. I wonder, how long will it take?'' As Marius pondered here, he couldn''t help but shake his head as a firm look came on his face when he made a decision.


    ''It doesn''t matter, what kind of man would I be if I let myself fall weaker than my wife, the best thing I can do right now is to empower myself further. Since I am in this generous old man''s care, I can use the time to train and aspire for a higher degree of strength, all while training Grevlin in the methods I had nned to teach him at twelve.''


    As Marius pondered, he had unconsciously stopped tickling Grevlin, causing him to look at him as he spoke, "Father, what''s wrong?"


    Marius sighed, staring at Grevlin''s innocent look, knowing full well that he would need to teach him harshly as the usual ethics won''t do in this world. He rubbed his head and spoke with a smile, "It''s nothing,e on now, let''s get some sleep, after resting up. We''ll check on your mother again before we start to practice with your arms.


    Grevlin nodded at his father''s words; he was feeling a bit sleepy himself as it was ratherte back when they were on earth, and had only been transferred to this world.


    Marius then lifted Grevlin cing him on the bed with Little Rose, after tucking him in, he waited until he fell asleep before he sat down by Ria''s side, he then leaned his back against the wall staring through the window at the room''s end, as if pondering the unknown

 Chapter 9: Ria Wakes Up, A Passionate Assault

    Chapter 9: Ria Wakes Up, A Passionate Assault


    It was a world of blood-red, one such that it would seem no different from the fabled hell, often told in fiction to many as bedtime stories. The atmosphere carrying a dark intent, as if below its dark clouds, was a nefarious will that shrouded all things.


    In this world, a young girl was seen wandering its dismal boundaries; she had long green hair, dazzling purple eyes, a long dark red horn, and wore a red dress, one that seemed as if it were dyed with blood.


    Looking at her closely, one would even notice that her face had a cold and ruthless expression, filled with the blood of many unknown foes that she licked away with a pretty pinkish tongue, moistening her somewhat parched but juicy red lips that were curved into a cruel smile.


    Still, as if she was ovee by something, this young girl''s eyes had abruptly changed, her expression turning to shock and horror, even more so as she looked at her palms stained with blood and the myriad of human corpses around her.


    "No... not again, I can''t live like this again!" The young girl said in a panic as if driven by grief, she gripped her head and raised it as she screamed out loud in a cry of anguish, "Ahhhhhhh!"


    Following this cry, the world around her shook, as it broke to pieces like shards of ss, everything faded into darkness as now only a single source of light remained.


    It was a sinister red light that seemed as if it loomed over all things; it formed into the figure of an indistinct giant with horns, one that looked down on the girl kneeling in this dark space with her arms holding her head.


    Following a moment of silence, the giant spoke in a familiar but ruthless tone that resounded across the world, "You have failed us!"


    The green-haired woman hearing this, had a sad look on her face, one that became filled with utmost terror and regret, but as if she determined something, she bit lips and clenched her fists tightly when she spoke with sharp eyes, "Never, I will never give in to your demands! NEVER AGAIN!"


    As she said this, the dark space began to fluctuate as bright lights erupted from everything, seeming to be able to destroy everything.


    The giant frowned as he saw this, it grew angry and yelled back in a resonant tone, "Truly disgraceful! Mark-my-words, child! You will pay for your betrayal!"


    The green-haired woman looked at this but said nothing; she knew that she had to face this someday, so she no longerint, she only cared about one thing, and that was her family.


    "Maybe someday, but that time isn''t now..." The woman said in a cold tone, her eyes having both a mixture of sadness and firmness.


    The red giant said nothing more, as it only stared at her in silence, both looking at each other as if between them were countless stories and sadness at the same time. Soon, the world was annihted, and the brilliant white lights engulfed everything.


    ****


    Marius, who had already dozed off in the simple wooden house, had only now awoken from his sleep. Previously, he had felt a bit tired from his strenuous battle against the zing Ice ck Tiger; as such, he instantly fell asleep the moment he sat by his wife.


    His back still leaned against the bed''s headboard as he crossed one arm over his bent leg and dazedly stared outside, looking at the brilliance of nature.


    ''It''s a beautiful world, much different from Earth, there''s no earthly pollution or filth in the air, but based on what the old man hinted, it would seem that underneath its beauty is far more dangerous than I''d ever expected. I can''t let up, I have to carve out a ce, for everyone to live as they please,'' Marius thought as his eyes showed resolution.


    After fixing his thoughts, he prepared to get up and read some books in the Mountain Ax Senior''s study, but right at this time, he felt a strange power.


    "Hmm, what''s this?" Marius ushered, but he soon noticed that it wasing from his wife at his side.


    He quickly looked at her and saw that her body floated from the bed before it burst into purple mes that seemed as if it was trying to devour her, but in a mere sh, a few white lights flickered, and everything returned to calmness.


    "Ria!" Marius eximed as he didn''t know what the hell happen just now, he hurriedly grabbed her out of the air holding her as a prince would do a princess as he stared at her face with worry.


    "Ria, are you okay? Hurry and wake up!" Marius said, hoping to rouse his wife from her slumber.


    As if Marius had finallye through, Ria''s eyes twitched as she opened it weakly before staring at her handsome husband''s face.


    At first, she was a bit confused, but when her eyes grew clearer, they showed regret, fear, anxiousness, and then determination, as streams of crystal-like tears ran down her cheeks when she spoke, "Huzy, I''m sorry, It''s all my... all my fault!"


    Marius stared at her deeply and sighed; he gently rubbed her head as if coaxing a child and spoke, "My dear Ria, don''t worry, it''s okay now. It doesn''t matter whose fault it was, what matters is that we are in this world together, and no matter how dangerous it is, so long as we have each other, nothing will hinder us from having a good life."


    When Ria heard those words, her body trembled as she firmed wrapped her arms around his neck, and ced her head against his chest as she spoke, "T-Thank you... thank you for not hating me!"


    Marius sighed as he gently caressed her and said, "Don''t worry, even if you were a devil, I can never hate you, my dear wife..."


    Ria felt happy hearing those words, her face flushed red, and her body started to heat up, Marius feeling this change felt his heart sped up, he knew what it meant when her body started to act in this manner.


    He looked down and saw that Ria had stared up at his face, with a red appearance, her eyes showing a passionate look as even her breath grew unsteady when she opened her cherry red lips and spoke in a mesmerizing tone, "Husband, I... I''m feeling hot..."


    Marius hearing this had a jolt, no matter how many times he was unable to calm down when she got like this, it was almost as if it were the ultimate kind of poison that can stir his soul and body.


    Before Marius could even speak to cate her mood, Ria pressed his body down with incredible strength straddling him from above as she ced her juicy lips on top of his firm and manly lips.


    She began to wildly suck as if trying to draw out his soul, causing Marius to almost lose himself into the moment of bliss. He savored the taste of her tongue that danced in his mouth, much like a seductive dancer doing her best to enter her man.


    Ria''s eyes became even crazier as she began to moan when she slid her mouth from his lips onto his neck, opening her mouth and showing a sharp set of teeth. She then bit onto his neck, causing blood to leak as she licked him over with her tongue.


    Marius was already used to this; he initially wanted to hold back as this was the room with children. However, it seemed that Ria''s ''poison'' was especially potent today, making it too much to endure, he gripped her firmly, squeezing her against his body as he prepared to trash her violently.


    "Ahh~" Ria mounted due to the excess use of force, as it was only when Marius acted like a beast that she felt most excited.


    It was a pity, however, as the couple was about to have a wonderful moment, the door opened with a bang. This sound startled them both from their activities, killing the passionate air.


    "Oh, I... please excuse this old man, I... I wanted to speak with Sir Marius, but I might have intruded at the wrong time. Do please continue..." The Mountain Ax Senior said in a strange tone, as his aged face showed embarrassment when he hurried closed the door and runoff.


    Marius and Ria, now losing the mood, stared at each other before they both started tough, showing no embarrassment at all, waking both Little Grevlin and the previously exhausted Little Rose from their slumber. The family now fully awakened, as they finally began their first day in this brand-new world.

 Chapter 10: A Mothers Little Trick

    Chapter 10: A Mother''s Little Trick


    "Mama-Mama! Hug!" The adorable Little Rose said as she ran to the edge of her bed in a wobbly manner, seeming as if she was about a fall down.


    In a hurry, Ria, whose emotions changed from passionate heat to motherly affection, quickly jumped from Marius''s embrace and held her daughter.


    Marius felt a bit dishearted, he scratched his leg with a defeated expression, but he soon looked at the scene with a warm look.


    Ria was now holding the joyous Little Rose, lifting her with her palms holding her by her armpits, she rose her up above her head and teased, "Did my Little Rose worry about me?"


    Little Rose had somewhat moist eyes as she spoke in a slightly unclear manner, "I... I was worried Mama was Swick!"


    "Aww... my sweet Little Rose, worry no more, your mother is fine," Ria said as she gently held her against her body, patting her head in aforting manner.


    Little Rose felt at peace as sheid her head on her mother, her small palms grasping the cloths on her dress as she smiled and spoke, "Mama, I... I''m d."


    Ria felt sweet on the inside; she held Little Rose on her ample chest, the soft cushiony feeling inspiring a wave offort to Little Rose. Marius seeing this looked away, he didn''t want to admit it, but he was feeling jealous of his daughter.


    Grevlin being the obedient little boy he was, calmly stood at the side before he raised his hand and grasped Ria''s dress corners.


    Ria turned and looked at him, noticing that his expression was one of longing. While holding Little Rose, she stooped down and patted his head as she spoke, "My Little Grev-Grev, what''s wrong? Were you also worried about your mother?"


    Grevlin bit his lips and nodded as he rests his head against her belly, Ria''s face turned even gentler as she spoke, "There-there now, as I''ve said to your sister, I am fine, soe on, chin up, big boys don''t cry, you have to be strong for your little sister."


    As if he agreed with Ria''s words, Marius only spoke at this time, "That''s right, Grevlin, you can''t show weakness as the big brother,e with me."


    Grevlin hearing this hurriedly let go of his mother''s dress and replied to his father, "Yes dad,"


    Ria turned and looked at Marius, who was now standing with Grevlin, seeing a stern look on his face as she sighed, she thought to herself, ''It seems that he''s pushed his training regiment for Grev-Grev far earlier than nned... I truly curse this world for bringing us here...''


    Not long after, Marius had begun to leave the room with Grevlin, but as he reached the door, he nted his head to look at Ria as he spoke, "Ria, we''ll speak about that matter tonight, for now, rest well our child. Also, please greet the owner of this house, he was the one to offer us shelter..."


    Ria looked at Marius deeply as she sighed and spoke, "Alright husband, I''ll be here when you get back,"


    Marius smiled no longer saying anything as he left the room with Grevlin at his side, now only Ria and Little Rose were left.


    Little Rose looked up at her mother''s face and saw that she had a slightly sad look, she asked innocently, "Mama, are you sad?"


    Ria sighed, hiding her feelings from her daughter, she pinched her cute little nose and spoke, "Of course not, nowe on, let''s go greet the owner and go y outside."


    "Owner?" Little Rose asked confusedly, but as she was a smart little baby girl, she remembered the big mountain man, causing her face to shock fear.


    "Mama! He''s big and bad!" Little Rose said in a hurry, her small body trembling, which caused Ria to look at her and sigh as she thought to herself.


    ''So he''s able to inspire your inborn Hell Sense, this might be a more troublesome meeting than I''d thought...'' Ria pondered as her crystal-like purple eyes shone in a strange ray.


    Soon though, she cleared her thoughts and tried to ease her daughter''s worries, she spoke, "My cute Little Rose, I will teach you a trick to let all bad guys turn good."


    "Trick?" Little Rosed asked with a confused look on her face.


    Ria found it adorable, but she held back and assumed a teaching appearance; she grabbed Little Rose''s hand and brought it to her chest, cing her palms on top of her tiny beating heart.


    Ria then said, "Rosey, look, whenever you ce your palms on top of the chest, so long as you say to yourself, all fears will go away, you will never be afraid of anyone again."


    Little Rose hearing this was a bit puzzling, but she tried to do it, "All... All fwears will go..."


    She was about to say something, but Ria shook her head and spoke again, "No, you have to say it with your mind, and only when you feel in danger, okay?"


    Little Rose made a slightly confused look, but herrge eyes soon after shed as if she understood, she nodded her head and replied with a smile, "Okay!"


    Ria smiled at her daughter''s intelligence; she patted her head before leaving the room, heading downstairs. Soon, she caught sight of the neatly structured furniture and furry mats.


    Ria''s face turned stern, as unlike Marius, she felt a tinge of danger from the furry mats on the ground. A danger like no other, as if in each of them was residual intent that of its former self.


    Ria then looked outside, gazing at the gorgeous scenery, she noticed that a few other mountains were lined across the horizon, as towering trees had epassed most of their surroundings.


    A fresh and cool air, seeping within her body, carried within it an abundant amount of pure energies that Marius had also failed to notice.


    ''This ce... where is here? How can it have such a rich Mystic Power?'' Ria thought while looking around in shock, but her eyes soon after turned back to the fur mats, she pondered with a solemn face, ''If these monster skins are what I think they are... then who in the world could...?''


    Ria tried to think, but suddenly, the sound of wood being cut sounded from the outside. Hearing this sound, Ria nced at noticed that a familiar old man was cutting wood around a tree stump.


    A resonant, but oddly synchronic sound, as if each stroke of the ax was in harmony with nature. For each swing of this ax, Ria felt as if it was not only cutting the wood but herself. It was as if above her was a giant ax, and she was nothing more than a block of wood to be cut.


    In this instance, a giant had appeared over her, holding the ax, it was none other than the Mountain Ax Senior, who gazed down at her with sharp eyes that glowed in blue light.


    Ria mouth when wide in shock, as her face was filled with terror, her Hell Sense striking her with a profound sense of danger.


    Yet, as if this scene wasn''t shocking enough, what became even more rming was the scene that happened next, as Little Rose ced her small palms of her chest and spoke innocently. Her words created a scene that caused not only the Mountain Ax Senior but also Ria, who taught her this mantra to look at her inplete shock.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 11: Rias Thoughts, Father Son Talk

    Chapter 11: Ria''s Thoughts, Father Son Talk


    Time grew slower as the world seemed to be in synchrony with something, listening carefully, one could heart the pulsating heart of a living creature. Soon, a dazzling light came from the center of the frozen world, as an adorable green-haired child had her small palms ced above her chest, gazing at the scary giant before her as she spoke in a brave, innocent tone, "All fwears will go away..."


    The moment she said, an invisible ripple spread out far and wide, shattering the illusion of the man holding the ax over the child''s mother, filling them both with shock as time once more flowed like normal.


    Little Rose was happy; she looked at the Mountain Ax Senior, who was now staring in the wooden house with shock on his face, she spoke in a slightly hard to understand but cheerful tone, "Mama! I don''t feel scwared anymuuore!"


    Ria, who only now recovered from her shock, looked down at her daughter in her arms. Her eyes narrowed as she thought to herself, ''It''s not yet awakened, but the power within her Hellian Heart is not to take for granted... much like little Grev-Grev''s arms...''


    When Ria thought to here, she recalled when Grevlin was born, and a strange phenomenon that startled both her and her husband. While Marius didn''t fully understand its details, and only scratch the surface with his [System], Ria knew full well what Grevlin''s arms were.


    She knew just what kind of astonishing mutation had taken ce now that it''s even fused with an unknown inborn ability, a portion of the very same inborn skill that Marius had been blessed with since birth.


    ''This won''t be an easy life... but I''ll have to do my part to keep them safe...'' Ria thought with firm eyes, no longer paying attention to the Mountain Ax Senior who had risen from his woodcutting posture and entered his house.


    As the Mountain Ax Senior entered, his shocked look turned stern, but he took a deep breath and calmed himself, he stared at Little Rose with a warm look as he spoke, "Little one, would you like something to eat?"


    Little Rose was raised well; she suspiciously looked at him before she nestled her head into Ria''s chest and spoke while holding her mother, "I Mama said no food from stwrangers!"


    The Mountain Ax Senior made an awkward smile as he shook his head, she wouldn''t ept him out of the blue, he shifted his attention onto Ria, taking on a stern look as he spoke, "I suppose you have yet to exin to him about your identity?"


    Ria stared at the man solemnly as she felt a dominating power from his stare, although she didn''t fully know who it was yet, she had a slight hutch about his identity.


    Ria lowered her head and replied, "Yes, you are correct."


    The Mountain Ax Senior stared at her again before he shook his head and sighed as he spoke, "I''m old... I''ve grown too weary during these years, and I''m now a retired soul. I have no interest in the world outside of these mountains or the affairs between the Artimans, Spiritans, and Hellians. Go speak with your husband, once you''ve all made a clear choice on what you''ll like to do, I will be waiting here..."


    After saying his piece, the Mountain Ax Senior went towards a different room; he seemed to be ready to call it a day as he wasn''t feeling the mood to cut any more wood.


    Ria stared at the direction he went and made a slight bow as she spoke, "I thank you..."


    The Mountain Ax Senior knew what she was thanking him for; he knew just how many of her kind his race killed over the years, each side was like fire and water, and simply speaking to each other in such terms was an unthinkable act.


    ''A Hellion and a being that bears simrities to our race, I wonder, what kind of future can they have on this continent? I suppose I''ll merely have to watch and see from this old mountain...'' He thought to himself, as he vanished into the room to call an end to a long day''s work.


    Ria soon after left the house, the moment she arrived outside, the air seemed to have changed slightly. Soon, a dark aura emitted from her body, turning the grasses around her a shade darker as even the spirits seemed to have grown weary and rapidly flew off.


    Ria''s eyes showed hate as she saw this; she didn''t experience this for a long time, which caused her to forget about her innate effects on the world.


    ''I''ll have to practice that technique again... how troubling it is to be born of this kind...'' Ria thought as she looked at the dead nts and leaves around her.


    Little Rose didn''t seem to notice her mood; she seemed to find joy in the grassy ground, as her eyes beamed when she saw the small and cute little tiger cubs yfully fighting each other.


    "Mama! Cwats! I want to y with Cwats!" Little Rose said, struggling as she wanted to be put down.


    Ria sighed as she saw this, she stooped down and ced her on the ground but didn''t let her go just yet, she spoke while pointing at the tiger cubs, "My Little Rosey, these aren''t cats, they are tiger cubs."


    Little Rose made a confused look; she ced one of her small fingers on her cheeks and looked at Ria withrge eyes as she spoke cutely, "Twiger Cwubs?"


    Ria smiled as she rubbed her head and praised, "That''s right, tiger cubs, you can y with them, but do you remember what to do whenever you sneeze?"


    When Little Rose heard this, she nodded her head and spoke, "Yes Mama, I must always lwook away."


    After saying this, she ran off towards the cubs, wobbling slightly, the tiny little tod seeming to be ready for an adventure despite beingte in the day.


    Ria couldn''t help but stare at her feeling a bit dazed, but her eyes fixed onto the tigers, she tilted her head noticing their oddness as she spoke her thoughts in a soft voice, "Odd? These cubs look different, I feel the Mystic Power of the zing Ice ck Tiger and a Heavenly Light White Tiger, but there''s a slight difference on their bodies and innate power. I wonder, what could have caused this, are they rare pets found by that man?"


    As Ria was thinking to herself, theughter of Little Rose ying with the tiger cubs sounded, causing her to feel a tinge of warmth. Her smile made her no different from a radiant rose, giving her a stark contrast to her surroundings filled with dead nts.


    Currently, a distance away from them, Marius and Grevlin were currently at the edge of the verdant field. The warm wind brushed across their bodies as it rustled their hair and clothing, even sending strands of grass across the field.


    After a moment of silence, Marius, who stared out into the distance, nced at his son and spoke, "Grevlin, how old are you now?"


    Grevlin looked at Marius and replied, "Father, I am now ten years old, and only a few months from reaching eleven."


    Marius saw his son''s innocent look when staring up at him, and couldn''t help but feel a case of weakness, but he sucked it up and kept a firm face when he spoke again, "Good, then do you remember what I told you the day you turned eight."


    Grevlin hesitated for a bit, he soon after recalled then recounted Marius''s words, "Father told me that someday soon I will be taught about the ways of the world..."


    Marius nodded as his eyes shone sharply, he stared at him and spoke again, "I''m d that you remember, my son, it was supposed to be a little longer before I officially began to teach you. However, now that we are in this world, everything has changed... now, more than ever, you will need to ept your duties as the oldest child, do you remember what happened today? What do you think would have happened if I couldn''t beat the tiger?"


    When Grevlin heard this, his eyes shone with fear, as he recalled the giant tiger, being the smart child that he was, he was able to easily picture the scene of carnage that would have followed causing him to tremble slightly.


    Marius seeing this knew that he should stop here, he spoke and got to his point, "You seem to understand already, that''s good, Grevlin... I have to tell you right here, and now, this world is far too dangerous, it is not a world where we can expect to be on good terms with either the animals or the people. As such, you will need to be stronger; if one day, therees an enemy that I cannot face, you will be the one to beat him, you must be strong enough to protect your sister and your mother on your own."


    Grevlin remained silent for a while; his trembling stopped as he clearly understood his father''s words. Even now, he recalled the boulder that was about to crush both him and his sister to meat pace; he knew what would have happened if he didn''t act.


    Grevlin stared at his arms, the very things he hated the most in the world, his cursed arms that couldn''t allow him to touch and feel things like usual.


    He gritted his teeth as a firm look appeared in his eyes when he spoke, "Father, I... I will do my best; I won''t let father down."


    Marius seeing this smirked, his eyes shed as he thought to himself, ''He truly is my son, so firm even at that age... that''s good enough for now; I don''t need to teach him anything yet, as his LVL is locked at 10; so apparently, he will need to age a bit more before he can experience proper growth. For now, I merely need to instill this consciousness within him. Hmm, I''ll increase my strength while teaching him how to fight and to know when to kill...''


    A slightly colder wind blew, as Grevlin stared at his father with unyielding spirit, Marius patted his head and then spoke, "Come, that''s it for now, go on, you can y with your sister for the rest of the day."


    Grevlin, who had a severe look now shifted to that of an innocent childish look; he shouted with beaming eyes, "Yay!"


    Marius watched as Grevlin ran towards Little Rose and the two tigers, his eyes showing a gentle look before they shifted towards Ria. He knew that her story would likely be a long one, and even if she didn''t tell him everything, he would need to prepare himself to ept her story.

 Chapter 12: Rias Secret, You Are My Everything

    Chapter 12: Ria''s Secret, You Are My Everything


    The evening grew darker, as the air had a mellow mood, Marius was now seated together with Ria, who sat within his embrace like a docile cat, his arms wrapped around her slender waist as he took in her flowery fragrance from the back of her slim neck.


    Feeling his breath behind her neck, Ria felt a bit heated. Her legs twisted as her eyes were almost entranced; this wasn''t unexpected, as a female Hellian, the strongest urge other than her nefarious thoughts was none other than lust.


    Ria licked her lips with a slight moan, trying her hardest to press down her mood as they watched their children in silence, looking at the y together with the two tiger cubs.


    Marius said nothing; he merely gave her the time needed to organize her thoughts; he didn''t even interrogate her, patiently awaiting her words.


    While her seductive state had engrossed Marius, as he could even smell a woman''s ''poison'' emitting from her pores, her voice soon woke him from his daze, "Huzy..."


    "Em...?" Marius replied with a low sound.


    Ria leaned back her head into his chest, staring up at his face from an upward angle, her dazzling purple eyes with long eyshes seeming as if it held power to swallow his spirit.


    Marius tried his hardest to suppress his manhood as he spoke, "Are you ready to speak now?"


    Ria made a cute nod, as she stared at him and spoke with slightlyplex eyes, "Huzy... you might have known this since our very first meeting, but I am not a human,"


    Marius nodded and replied, "Yes, I knew, I figured that much since way back in those times. I''ve also realized that our children weren''t pure humans as well. When I came to this old man''s abode, he mentioned the term, Hellian, but that''s as far as my knowledge has reached."


    When Marius said this, he gave Ria a deep look, he soon noticed that her face had a somewhat pained look as she spoke, "I see, so you already know, then I''ll get straight to it. Huzy, it''s true that I''m a Hellian, and our children are both part Human and part Hellian. However, I must share the core matter to you about my race, and where Ie from, in all truth, I was actually born of this world, born of the Hellion Race at the farthest realms of Valoria, a ce known as Hellshire."


    Marius nodded as he looked at her; he didn''t know what Hellshire was but he had already gathered that she came from this world.


    Ria seeing hisposed look, sighed and continued, "Hellshire is a world that exists at the boundary of Valoria, you could even say it exists within a separate realm connected to this world. A vast region saturated with chaotic power in itsnds. Because of this, people of our kind, are born with a tendency towards evil desires, the stronger amongst us capable of mostly suppressing them or erasing them, but the weaker of us are more prone to instinct, craving destruction, and other things. Due to this reason, our kind is viewed as enemies of all within thend of Valoria. It''s now even believed that ever since the dawn of time, we had been at war with both Artimans and Spiritans."


    Marius listened keenly, but he soon frowned and spoke, "Ria, I get that this is part of your n''s history with this world, but what does it have to do withing to our world?"


    Ria stared at his face before biting her lips; she made a hesitant look before she spoke, "It has a lot to do with it, just listen for a little while longer."


    Marius saw her look sighed and nodded. Ria took a deep breath and continued, "Because of this war, and our Hellian Race having more superior experts due to our more harsh environment. The Spiritans and Artimans were losing too many forces; they had each began to search for new ways to more easily destroy the other side. After many years of research, an incredible method was found. They discovered the Summoners System, awork that can connect to a myriad of distant worlds. Each of these worlds had beings with high potential and great spirit from a myriad of races, and any of them summoned to our world can blossom into splendor. From this point onwards, other summoned warriors from these worlds would be sent to aid in the battles against our kind, pushing us back to the realms of the Hellshire."


    Marius narrowed his eyes at those words; he seemed to have realized something that gave him a bad feeling.


    Ria as if reading his thoughts finally spoke the core of the matter, she sighed and spoke, "Huzy, it''s as if you''ve guessed, to counter the summoned war-no, Summoned Heros, our kind found a countermeasure. The Hell Elders and Hell Kings of the Hellshire researched an even moreplex path in the Summoners System, finding a different world, and it this very world, that they were supposed to summon one being. A lifeform with potential far superior to all others, one who was destined to aid them in achieving rulership over the entire world..."


    Marius''s face turned dark as he heard those words, he looked at Ria and spoke, "You... you don''t mean..."


    He was about to say something, but Ria, whose eyes had a hint of sadness, looked at him and spoke, "That''s right, my dear husband, the one they wanted to summon was none other than you. The human with the greatest power amongst all humans, an irregrity like none seen before."


    Marius gripped his fists tightly as he didn''t like this feeling; he didn''t like others trying to control his destiny. He took a short moment to calm down as he looked at Ria and spoke, "Ria, although I''d like to push away this feeling, for some reason... I know that it''s true... if it were back then when I used to have those feelings as if something was trying to pull me away. In those times when I lived only to kill, then maybe... maybe... I''d..."


    Marius was about to say something, but Ria ced her finger on top of his lips, as she spoke with a smile, "It''s okay, Huzy, I know... but it doesn''t matter, what matters is it didn''t work. After all, they couldn''t summon you in the end, and had to use different means..."


    When Ria said this, her eyes showed a pained look, as it was getting to the part she didn''t want to speak. Ria struggled for a while as her eyes began to grow moist as she prepared to talk about the truth now, but it seemed that she didn''t have the chance.


    Marius being smart, having listened to her this far, knew what she was implying but he pretended not to hear it. He stopped her from speaking by pinching her mouth softly as he spoke while looking at her, "Ria, summoned or not summoned, plotted or not plotted against, none of that matters. If you never came to Earth, or you weren''t in my life, I... I would never be who I am today. So Ria, don''t say anymore... I don''t need to know anything else, what matters from ever since that time and forever always is that you are my wife, my radiant star in the darkest of nights, my dazzling rose in the abyss of blood-stained thorns. You, my love, are my everything."


    When Ria heard those words, no matter how she tried to suppress it, her emotions went wild, her eyes pouring out tears like rain as she spoke, "I... I... don''t deserve such lo.."


    Marius snorted at those words, not even letting her have her way to finish them; he acted fiercely, lowering his head and swallowing her misbehaving lips.


    Ria''s eyes widened in shock, but as she felt the forceful mouth that enclosed her, she soon after lost herself into it as the two lips began a tug of war, as if trying to engulf each other''s souls.


    Grevlin, who was ying with Little Rose, looked up innocently; being the smart boy he was, he knew what was going on to some degree. He hurriedly did the usual, by drawing Little Rose''s attention away from the wild couple that did such acts without a care in the world.


    By this time, the Mountain Ax Senior was about to check up on the surroundings. However, the moment he left his house, he saw the sight of the couple fighting a battle with their lips locked tightly.


    The Mountain Ax Senior made a disturbed look as he thought to himself, "Jeez, what''s wrong with these people? Can''t they act more modest?"


    He sighed, knowing full well it wasn''t his ce to interfere, hurrying to enter back the house as he left the setting sun to witness the passionate exchange of man and wife.


    ***


    PS: Want extra chapters? Drop by some power stones, if we reach in the top 100 of the main power ranking then even if I am still too exhuasted writing the other stories, I will gift you all an extra chapter. If you all want more chapters than that, check the series synopsis for all details. Have a nice day :)

 Chapter 13: Mariuss and Rias Choice, A Special Ground

    Chapter 13: Marius''s and Ria''s Choice, A Special Ground


    The night had now fallen, and the wild couple had an early end to their previous antics. It seemed that they knew when not to go overboard, especially now that they were in a stranger''s domain.


    At this time, everyone was gathered together around a simple wooden table in the fields. The fresh night wind and brilliant nts shone in a myriad of colors filling this entire region with a mythical vibe. Even the sky had its peculiarities, as Marius saw not moons, butrge glowing orbs that resembleds.


    Each of which was connected by some unusual line, as his eyes swept around, he noticed that a myriad of stars was between them, some having a dull light as others illuminated the sky in a vast array of colors.


    "Ria, now that I''m looking at this ce in its night scenery, I have to say it is quite a wonderful sight..." Marius said in a soft tone, trying not to wake the sleeping Little Rose that adorablyid down on Ria''sp, her tiny little nose having a bubble snot that expanded and contracted.


    Grevlin was also tired after a long afternoon of ying; he currently had both arms in his arm binders as he rested his head on top of the table while sleeping.


    Ria hearing her husband''s words nodded and spoke with a smile, "Yes, I''ve heard that it''s always been like this, especially in this region... though I''m still not certain as to where exactly in the Artimans domain we are currently residing."


    Marius looked at her and spoke, "Oh, so you''ve never been to this sector of this world?"


    Ria made aplex look and replied, "Yes... I''ve always been in the Hellshire..."


    Marius med himself for asking such a stupid question; he sighed before he ced his palm above her head and yed with her hair strands.


    Ria felt happy at his touch; she leaned her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes as if feeling contented. They quietly enjoyed a husband and wife moment, but what this couple didn''t remember was that there was another guest around the table.


    "Ahem!" The Mountain Ax Senior made a slight cough of discontent as if trying to let them remember that he was still seated here awaiting their decision.


    Marius and Ria made an awkward look as they stared at each other before looking at the Mountain Ax Senior, speaking one after the other.


    "I... do please excuse us, we had momentarily forgotten the topic at hand," Marius said with a slightly awkwardugh as he scratched the back of his head. His manner right now in no way simr to the hostile and cautious self shown earlier.


    "Great Senior... please excuse our disrespect," Ria said with a slight bow, it seemed that having realized his strength, she had adopted the custom of greeting shown to experts in this world.


    The Mountain Ax Senior was at first disgruntled, but he shook his head. His eyes had a faint look of remembrance, picturing a simr beauty like Ria. However, that look soon faded as heughed it off as he spoke, "Hoho... it''s fine, it''s fine. Youth is meant to be hotblooded, who am I to pull such a couple from their bonding. You two are quite a match made in heaven... though, I have yet to figure if it''s a curse of a blessing..."


    When Marius and Ria, heard the first parts of his words, their faces showed happy looks, but as they listened to thetter parts, their eyes once more turned a bit solemn.


    The Mountain Ax Senior sighed as he saw their expressions, he spoke again, "Worry not children, though it will be difficult to carve a life out in thesends. It''s not impossible, but before I get to that, please tell me what you''ll like to do? Will you be venturing to the Grand Alvaria Dynasty? Or, do you wish to travel to the remote spiritualnds of Ilianore?"


    When Marius and Ria heard this, they looked at each other and nodded, having bonded since all afternoon, they had already spoken in detail about their current options.


    From that discussion, Marius even learned a bit about the world, knowing full well that the Grand Alvaria Dynasty was the home ground for all Artimans. Illianore, on the other hand, was the domain of the mystical Spiritans.


    Marius looked at the Mountain Ax Senior and spoke, "After thinking about it, we have decided to make a temporary stop here. My understanding of this world and its customs are not yet up to par, and most importantly, if we were to go out there right now; we would be no different from sheep to a pack of wolves. We want to take this chance to train ourselves to a survivable standard, at least..."


    The Mountain Ax Senior chuckled as he heard the words ''survivable standard,'' he looked at them and spoke, "Fine, you''ve both made a wise choice, as I''ve said before, you are free to use my study to learn what you wish, consider it as a mere act of goodwill on my part. When the timees for you to leave, I will impart a few methods by which you can blend in with society. As for the duration of your stay, I suggest that it be no more than a single month, after all, the mountain life is no ce for the growth of children..."


    When Marius and Ria heard this, they nodded their heads showing looks of understanding as their eyes shifted onto the sleeping children.


    "Great, I''ll be calling it a night for..." The Mountain Ax Senior was about to say something as he got up from his seat and prepared to leave, but as if Ria only now recalled something, she looked at him and spoke, "Great Senior, might I ask you a question?"


    Hearing her words, the Mountain Ax Senior turned around and nced at her as he spoke, "Sure, go ahead."


    Marius looked at Ria, wondering what she wanted to ask, but soon, she spoke with a somewhat confused look on her face, "Senior, I couldn''t help but notice when you asked us of our choice, you mentioned if we wanted to travel to the Grand Alvaria Dynasty. I am a bit puzzled, isn''t this mountain range within thends of Alvaria?"


    Marius hearing this had a surprised look in his eyes, he didn''t even notice it himself, he pondered, ''Odd, wasn''t this the domain of the Artimas, why did he speak as if we were somewhere else?''


    The Mountain Ax Senior raised one of his eyebrows at this, but then he scratched the back of his head andughed as he replied, "Hoho... oh how silly of me, I have yet to tell you both where we are. I had even forgotten that miss Ria here is from the Hellshire, what you know about the rest of the continent of Valoria should also be somewhat limited to a certain degree of experience."


    As the Mountain Ax Senior spoke to here, both Ria and Marius calmly looked at him as they awaited his answer. Not long after, the Mountain Ax Senior smirked and walked away as his voice trailed through the wind, reaching their ears, "This mountain of mine is a bit different as it''s disconnected from everywhere else, for now, let''s just say that its a Special Ground."


    Marius made a look of confusion, while Ria tilted her head slightly, she still didn''t quite understand where this ce was, but her eyes shone in a strange ray as she knew that there are quite a few Special Grounds in this world.


    "It must be one of those Top-Grade Special Grounds that are written the ancient scriptures of the n..." Ria muttered silently, as her purple eyes had a curious glint.


    Marius no longer pondered this issue, he looked at his wife and spoke, "Ria, let''s get these kids back upstairs, now that we''ve made up our mind, we have a long month ahead of us. From this point onward, we will both work hard to build our home in this world."


    Ria roused from her thoughts, gave Marius a loving look as she kissed his cheek and spoke, "Right."


    The two then carefully lifted the sleeping children, carrying both them and the tiger cubs towards the house as they called an end to their first day in the world of Valoria.

 Chapter 14: Acquiring Knowledge, Learning Combat Arts

    Chapter 14: Acquiring Knowledge, Learning Combat Arts


    The sun rose anew within these mystical mountains, bathing thend with its bright light that beamed from the horizon. A colorful splendor greeting all eyes as the flowers and nts were exceptionally bright on this dawn.


    Marius had awoken early today, leaving his wife, who watched over the sleeping children while in bed. Coincidentally, it was also the first day of the next month in Valoria, and as this was the beginning of his training regiment, he didn''t want to waste even a single moment.


    Marius hurried towards the direction of the study, arriving in a short while. Once he opened the door and entered the sight that greeted him was none other than a scene of endless books. Each ranging from as little as two inches to six inches of thickness while they were neatly arranged on top of arge book shelve.


    Some were ced on top of counters, stacked together in bundles that were no less than a meter high. Looking around these books, one would see an assortment of scrolls, while on the main table was a series of paper with a feathered pen and inkpot.


    A musty smell, much like that of vani flowers and almonds, wafted towards Marius''s nose, as just by this simple whiff, he could tell that these books were quite aged, not even needing to open them for inspection.


    ''Alright, where do I start? Hmm, I guess I''ll do a tiny bit of reading on their culture before I search for this world''s standard ofbat techniques and survival arts,'' Marius thought as he made up his mind, a warm smile was on his face due to the smell from earlier, giving a tinge of peacefulness and calmness.


    After walking around for a few minutes, he picked up a few books and sat around the main table before putting away the inkpot and other objects.


    In a few more minutes, Marius engrossed himself into the books he selected, learning of the various races in the world and bits of the culture. While he could use the [System] to record everything instantly, that was only superficial knowledge; he wanted to understand all core details.


    In this world, other than the three Ultimate Races, being the Artimans, Spiritans, and Hellians. The Common Races are numerous, and Higher Races are of an adequate number. Each race ranged from ordinary beings seen in folklore such as dwarfs, elves, to more stranger types such as four-eyed Felians, Mantars, and giant bodied Barkians.


    In the case of monsters, and beasts that roam the boundaries of dangerous mountain ranges, and even a variety of open fields scattered across thend.


    They are each ssed as Mystic Creatures, while most are of a basic instinct some of these beasts have acquired sentience, can think and process information much like other intelligent lifeforms. However, the most dreaded thing about these lifeforms is their overwhelmingbat capabilities, each born with special innate abilities and physical capabilities that can easily overwhelm even amon expert in this world.


    Each race had its own customs, and while the details for both the Spiritans and Hellians were obscure, there was a vast amount of knowledge on the Artimans.


    Artmians were a race much like humans, simr in every way except for their crest and aura. They were a race governed by a single central body, those that went by the surname of Alvaria. A dynasty which had ruled since the fabled progenitor Artimas had left his roots in this world from the ancient era.


    However, while they had their differences from humans, one thing remained simr as it would with any lifeform. As they were each blinded by their own selfish desires, even if they were at war with other kinds, and the world was at peace. Their domain was filled with a series of internal conflicts.


    This didn''t mean that each of them was bad; instead, amongst them were the few who offered worship to their progenitor, creating the enormous influence known as the Artimas Church. They are responsible for the bnce and order of the empire, ensuring that everyone can find peace of mind despite the chaos both in and outside.


    After reading a chunk full, Marius closed the final book on history and details, as he had now further cemented a few things that his wife had told him. He checked the sun''s position in the sky through the study''s window and saw that it was nearing at 7 am.


    "Whew, well, I guess that should be enough to help us when we travel to Alvaria. Let''s see the different kinds of techniques in this world..." Marius said as he got up from the seat and walked over to the counter with the different scrolls.


    As his eyes started to run over them, a few bits of information then began to appear within his mind as a screen appeared before his eyes.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You have discovered a collection of Combat Arts! Processing details:plete!]


    Ding!


    [Information has been organized, please choose from which you would to learn below:]


    ...


    [Mystical Power Arts]


    [Eternity Light Arts - Mystical Power Arts]


    [Burning Aura Arts - Mystical Power Arts]


    [Lightning ze Arts - Mystical Power Arts]


    ...


    [Weapon Arts]


    [Cleaving Earth Smasher - Ax Arts]


    [Twisiting Gale Swing - Ax Arts]


    [Heavenly God Cleave - Ax Arts]


    [zing Light Sword - Sword Arts]


    [Blinding Sword sh - Sword Arts]


    [Flowing Water Spear - Spear Arts]


    ...


    [Unarmed Fighting Arts]


    [Choke of Devils - Unarmed Fighting Arts]


    [Arieal Submission Palm - Unarmed Fighting Arts]


    [Kick of Raging Dragons - Unarmed Fighting Arts]


    [Pulsing Earth Steps - Unarmed Movement Arts]


    [Seven God Fists - Unarmed Fighting Arts]


    ____


    Marius wasn''t surprised that his [System] showed these details as it was the very same way he had learned martial arts on Earth. Though, it didn''t seem that those skills were capable of being recognized by the [System] as authentic skills. He thought for a bit recalling the facts about skills and their variety of types.


    Combat Arts, much like Inborn Abilities, are the offensive methods used in Valoria to aid one in increasing their survivability across these chaotds. Ten levels separate these arts, which are further divided into four grades.


    Level 1 to 3 are ssified as Low-Grade Combat Arts, Level 4 to 6 are ssed as Mid Grade Combat Arts, while Level 7 to 9 are ssed as High-Grade Combat Arts.


    Legend speaks of a few Ultimate Arts that are capable of achieving Level 10, reaching the MAX Level of allbat arts. However, no one has ever seen such a fable since ancient times...


    Marius stared at the information before him with a perplexed gaze as he pondered, "Hmm, which do I choose? While I sometimes used to fight with weapons, I still preferred the feeling of using my fists. However, as I am now a bit uncertain in this world, I will definitely need to learn at least one path of Weapon Arts, with a myriad of Unarmed Fighting Arts."


    As Marius thought to here, his eyes fixed on a few skills, as his lips curved into a smile when he spoke with bright eyes, "Huhu... maybe I should try these out for a change..."


    A cool morning wind swept through the open window as Marius tapped a few skills with his finger as a bright light shone before vanishing. Moments after, he opened his eyes as a look of confidence came on his face as a series of notifications sounded in his mind, filling him with a hint of surprise and joy.

 Chapter 15: Mariuss Combat Arts, Gate to the Outskirts

    Chapter 15: Marius''s Combat Arts, Gate to the Outskirts


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Cleaving Earth Smasher!]


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Twisting Gale Swing!]


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Aerial Submission Palms!]


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Kick of Raging Dragons!]


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Seven God Fists!]


    Ding!


    [You have learned the Pulsing Earth Steps!]


    Ding!


    [You have failed to learn the Eternity Light Arts!]


    ____


    When Marius listened to all of the previous notifications, his eyes showed excitement, but that vanished when he heard thest announcement.


    ''Hmm, so I''m not able to learn this art, or is it that I can''t learn any Mystic Arts?'' Marius thought as he inspected the scroll with the [Eternity Light Arts].


    After a short while, he nced at the [zing Aura Arts] and tried to learn it, but another notification popped up, confirming his thoughts.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You have failed to learn the zing Aura Arts!]


    ____


    Marius sighed as he thought, ''So it seems that I really can''t learn these arts, maybe its because I already have a system... or it could even be something else...''


    Marius shook his head after thinking these thoughts, clearing his mind as hemanded inwardly, ''Inspect All Skills."


    ____


    [Cleaving Earth Smasher | Level 1]


    [ss: Rank 3 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/150]


    [Description - A skill that uses the force of the ax ravage the earth into multiple fissures.]


    ...


    [Twisting Gale Swing | Leve 1]


    [ss: Rank 3 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/150]


    [Description - A skill that uses the force of the ax ravage the conjure a cyclone of sheering winds.]


    ...


    [Arial Submmison Palms | Level 1]


    [ss: Rank 3 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/150]


    [Description - A skill that conjures a palm that can grasp any obstacle.]


    ...


    [Kick of Raging Dragons | Level 1]


    [ss: Rank 4 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/200]


    [Description - A skill that usesunch dominating kicks with the impression of a Mystic Dragon beast.]


    ...


    [Pulsing Earth Steps!]


    [ss: Rank 3 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/150]


    [Description - A skill that allows the user to move as one with the earth, using its pulses to shift from one ce to another.]


    ...


    [Seven God Fists | Level 1]


    [ss: Rank 7 Skill]


    [Mastery: 0/350]


    [Description - A skill that uses the seven unique fist energies to annihte its foes, each wave is stronger than thest.]


    ____


    Marius looked at their details in surprise as he eximed, "Astounding, to think they would be a total of three Low-Grade Arts, with the other two being one Middle Grade and one High Grade. This old man is certainly of quite the status..."


    While Marius realized that his inborn skill was likely stronger than these arts, it didn''t mean that he would look down on them.


    ''Heh, it''s time to test these out; if I fight, I can earn Mastery Points; hopefully, I can get another Daily Quest from this [System],'' Marius concluded, as his eyes showed a rare look of eagerness.


    He looked around the room and saw a bunch of weapons scattered on a counter; his eyes soon caught sight of a sharp-looking dual ded battle-ax with its edges being even wider than Marius''s body. It had a mix of silver and gold,ced around its 1.5-meter handle.


    "Ah... I''ll be training with you then friend," Marius ushered in a prase as if he felt it to be a useful weapon upon sight, very fitting to his body''s immense strength.


    He found it to be a bit heavy after lifting it, which made him feel a bit surprised. However, he still ced it over his shoulder and walked out of the room, once he arrived outside he saw that the Mountain Ax Senior was walking back from the woods with arge tree.


    ''Hmm? Does he do this every day? How much wood does he even need?'' Marius thought as he looked to his left and noticed the pile of wood gathered there, he shook his head, thinking that it was a kind of past time activity.


    The Mountain Ax Senior notice that Marius was holding an ax, he smirked while putting down the tree as he spoke, "Oh, so it seems that we are quite simr indeed, haha, I had a hunch you would choose the ax for a weapon, a fitting partner for men of strength like us."


    Marius smiled as he spoke, "Yes, indeed, I''ve never used one before, but I feel that it might be able to open a new path."


    The Mountain Ax Senior nodded before he spoke again, "Indeed, hmm... since your headed out, I should help you a bit; this mountain range is quite dangerous, you see."


    Marius knew it was dangerous; that''s why he didn''t wander off into the woods and quietly spoke with him. He looked and saw that the Mountain Ax Senior had ced his hand on the ground, not long after, a strange earthen colored power flowed from his body into the ground.


    Rumble! In an instant, the ground began to shake as if the world was undergoing an earthquake, the Mountain Ax Senior''s eyes shone in the same strange lights as he spoke in a resonant voice, "Earth Gate!"


    Marius looked on before him in shock, seeing a dazzling light rise from the earth as a solid door a bitrger than himself had grown out of nothingness. As he looked at it, he saw that behind this door was a simr region of mountains and nts, even clear waters from a flowing stream.


    The Mountain Ax Senior smirked as he fixed his posture and spoke with a confident pose, "Hoho... young one, what do you think of my little skill? Amazing, is it not?"


    Marius was a bit surprised, but nothing could beat being summoned from another world. He wasn''t going to say anything, but as he saw that the old man was looking to be praised, he thought for a bit before he spoke, "It''s pretty good..."


    The Mountain Ax Senior frowned as if he didn''t like his reaction, he snorted and turned his head away while continuing on his business, leaving behind his voice, "Hmph! Young one, you can take that door to the outskirts of this mountain range, and return from the location were you exit, another door will be there. However, I must warn you; this mountain is highly dangerous; you can consider it your luck to meet such a weak creature when you did. The monster''s you will encounter are all at the level of that beast and stronger."


    As the voice faded, the Mountain Ax Senior had already ced down his tree and entered his house.


    Marius stared at that direction and made a slight bow before fixing his sights onto the gate, his grip on the handle of the battle-ax naturally grew firmer as his eyes zed with battle intent, a feeling he hadn''t felt in a long time.


    ''Let''s test my limits...'' Marius thought as he took a step forward, soon after entering the gate, which instantly transferred him the outskirts, beginning the start of his first day of training.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 16: Grevlins First Summon

    Chapter 16: Grevlin''s First Summon


    The morning was out in full as brilliant rays shone at all corners of this mountain range. The chirping birds fluttering about as some danced in the riverside while others made their way through trees. One such bird flew towards a window of a wooden house, it perched itself on the windowsill before making a few chirps.


    As if someone was disturbed, a few rustling sounds were heard as a person had awoken. Looking inside, one would see that Grevlin had seated himself from the bed and stretched his limbs with a cute yawn.


    Grevlin rubbed his eye corners and looked around the room in surprise; he thought to himself, ''Where''s mother and father?''


    Not knowing where they went, Grevlin didn''t panic, but jumped down from the bed and went to the window, he climbed the other bed and used it as a foot stand to look out the window as he inspected the area.


    Not long after, he saw that his mother was currently ying with his little sister at akeside, her legs were dipped into the water, as Little Rose giggle cutely as she was being tickled by Ria.


    "Oh, mother is ying with sister, hmm... maybe I''ll join themter," Grevlin muttered softly as his eyes showed a slightly sneaky look.


    Not bothering to hurry to her position, Grevlin jumped from the bed onto the floor before he looked at his arm binders. He thought for a moment before unzipping it to look at his arms.


    Soon, Grevlin saw somewhat dark reddish arms that slowly transitioned to the color of his mother''s hidden horns. He saw that a few tiny spikes were growing around his knuckles as one slightlyrge spike was on his elbow.


    ''It''s growing worse...'' Grevlin thought with a frown on his face, he really disliked his arms, they are the very reason he was mocked while in school and treated like a handicapped as he had to pretend that they were disabled to hide them.


    However, when Grevlin recalled what Marius said to him yesterday evening, his innocent eyes showed a firm look as he grit his teeth before thinking, ''I... I have to be strong; I must protect everyone,''


    Once Grevlin finished his thoughts, he clenched his fists hard, causing the air within it to make a slightly loud noise due to the force.


    Grevlin was a bit startled by this, he felt that his strength was even stronger than yesterday. He did what Marius thought him once he turned ten years old, and spoke in his mind, ''Show Status...''


    ____


    [Name: Grevlin Edgewick]


    [Level: 1 | Age: 10]


    [Status: Stage 1 Growth Lock - Leveling cap is limited to 10, due to physical immaturity.]


    [Race: Human + Hellian]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Msytic Power: G]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Passive Strengthen  Arms | Level 1]


    [Mastery: 200/500]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the host to strengthen their arms passively, the ability will increase in mastery for each use and non-use over time.]


    [Effects: Harden''s arm and increase its strength by Two  Stars, because of the host''s current Mystic Power, there are no side effects to this technique.]


    ....


    [Call of Darkness | Level 1]


    [Mastery: 0/500]


    [Description - The inborn ability to call upon an entity of darkness; each subject to the master''s whim and are duty-bound to protect the master.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, the host can only summon Grade 1 Dark Entities.]


    ...


    [Learnt Skills: None]


    ____


    Grevlin was surprised as he thought, ''Wow! It increased! My arms skill is higher in mastery... I... I should tell fatherter.''


    When Grevlin thought to here, he then inspected the Call of Darkness skill and spoke with a puzzled look, "I was never able to use it before, but I wonder what this will do, what''s a Dark Entity?"


    After thinking for a bit, Grevlin looked around cautiously before he pointed his palm on the ground and spoke, "Call of Darkness..."


    As if the world heard his voice, the shadows clustered and formed a diagram on the ground. In moments the room became shrouded by a diabolical aura, causing the Mountain Ax Senior to look at the room in rm.


    Ria, who was ying with Little Rose, also looked at the room, but as she knew that the Mountain Ax Senior wouldn''t do anything, she didn''t show panic. Instead, she had a smile on her face as she thought to herself, ''Little Grev-Grev... the talents you''ve awakened are far beyond even those elders, I hope you can master them in time...''


    Unlike Ria, the Mountain Ax Senior had a shocked look as he spoke out loud, "What astounding darkness mystic power? It''s as if it''s connected to a different realm of existence, how can such powere from a child hellian? Wait... they had only arrived from that other world, could it actually be an inborn skill?"


    Felling rmed, the Mountain Ax Senior''s body vanished as he appeared in a hidden section of the room upstairs. However, at this time, the technique was already ending.


    The Mountain Ax Senior and Grevlin looked at the circle, which was now asrge as the entire room, their eyes showing different looks as one had solemnness as the other was purely of curiosity.


    In moments, a ck pir of light bolted from the diagram as it hit the ceiling of the room. Itsted for two seconds before it faded, and the scene within the room returned to normal.


    However, much to the Mountain Ax Senior''s and Grevlin''s surprise, once they looked at the direction of the summoned entity, their expressions once more changed.


    Pff! The Mountain Ax Senior tried to hold back hisughter as he stared at the small fellow that appeared. It was a gray-skinned humanoid that was the size of a child and had no body armor. It wore a flowing darkbat robe with a small ck knife in its hand, even its eyes that glowed in purple light seemed no different from a child''s.


    Currently, it was trying to kneel on the ground as it made a polite gesture towards Grevlin, but it ended up toppling over in an unsteady and cute manner. It tried to fix its posture, but the robe had fallen over its head, causing it to be confused about its surroundings.


    Crash! With a loud collision sound, it identally ran into the cupboard, falling onto its back as the cape fell from its head.


    As he had been into the mountains for so long, the Mountain Ax Senior, who renounced society had long forgotten what it was like to see something in this manner. He was no longer able to control himself as he fell on his back inughter, "Hahahaha!"


    Grevlin was startled that the old man appeared out of nowhere, but right now, his attention was on the clumsy looking knight lying on its back. His face had an embarrassed expression as he thought, ''How is he this clumsy? This is not cool!''


    Grevlin clenched his teeth before trying the othermand Marius had thought him with his mind, ''Inspect!''


    ____


    [Name: Darkness Soldier]


    [Level: 1 | Growth Limit  Level 20]


    [Race: Dark Being]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: G]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Darkness Return - Max]


    [Description: The ability to merge with darkness at any point and any time.]


    ...


    [Dark sh| Level 1]


    ____


    When Grevlin saw its stats, he was bewildered, but before he could even promptly inspect it in a hands-on contest, the Mountain Ax Senior who had recovered stared at the Darkness Soldier with a strange look in his eyes.


    After a while, his eyes had a trace of surprise as he sighed and spoke, "Kid, your ability is something else. I can tell you want to fight it, but you won''t beat it. Though it looks clumsy, its skills are more or likely superior to your own. So for right now, you need to learn abat skill at the very least, follow me downstairs; I have the perfect thing for you."


    The Mountain Ax Senior had taken a liken onto Marius''s children; even thatugh just now reminded him of old times, he wanted to pay him back.


    Grevlin looked at the old man as he left the room, his eyes showing a curious look as he thought, ''A Skill? Father said I should listen to the Old Grandpa; I cannot let him wait!''


    As he said this, Grevlin then ran out of the room with beaming eyes, his mood a bit excited as he had temporarily forgotten about the poor Darkness Soldier that was now lying on its back in the room.


    The Darkness Soldier looked behind it with oddness before it faded into the dark as if it merged with the surroundings, filling this scene with a dark and mysterious vibe.

 Chapter 17: Mariuss Strength

    Chapter 17: Marius''s Strength


    While Marius''s family stayed within the Mountain Ax Senior''s abode, Marius was currently engaged in a harsh training regimen within the outskirts of this dangerous mountain range. At this time, within arge tree with a branch that was even thicker than a building, Marius silently sat as he red at the scene below him.


    Looking at the sight, one would see two peculiar-looking rhino-shaped beasts, each roughly triple the size of a typical rhino with three yellow horns on their heads. Their bodies were of a brownish hue with as each of their tails shone with an earthen light.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Host has grown stronger, your perception has increased, disying creature stats!]


    ...


    [Three Horned Rhinol]


    [Race: Mystic Beast]


    [Level: 11]


    [Stamina: F]


    [Strength: F]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: G]


    [Abilities:]


    [Earth Spire - Max]


    [Description: The ability to cause a sharp rock protrusion tounch itself from the earth towards its foe.]


    ____


    Though he wasn''t expecting it, Marius was a bit surprised when he saw that the system had identified the creature, which was more powerful than himself by quite the levels.


    As he went over the statistics, he furrowed his brows while grasping the battle-ax tightly as he pondered, ''Hmm, this () star is much different from the darker and more full versions, could it be that these show up after every level? If that''s so, then once you arrive at a certain level like maybe Level 3, it will transition to a () darker star. My only issue is its stats, why is that only its Stamina and Strength are of the F standard?"


    When Marius though to here, the Rhinols had already shown signs of agitation; it seemed that they could sense his Mystic Power, despite him hiding his presence with his means used on Earth.


    "Roar!" The two Rhinol''s roared with reading eyes as an earthen light began to glow around their bodies, it seemed that they prepared to attack in all directions and flush him out of hiding.


    Marius frowned as he looked at them, his eyes shone with battle lust as he licked his lips seeming like a different man as he thought with confidence, ''Heh, no matter. Maybe only some beings can likely grow with all stats, which means my victory against that tiger was probably due to it battling me in a contest of strength. Tsk, as for these fellows, even if it were that time, I would have been able to defeat them...''


    The moment Marius wrapped up his thoughts, he firmly gripped the battle-ax and took a jumping posture on the tree branch as he held the ax at an angle.


    At this moment, the two Rhinols suddenly looked up as they roared as if invoking a skill. Instantly, the earth rumbled and two different earth spires rose from the ground towards the tree branch.


    Marius chuckled as he jumped from the tree andnded on one of the earth spires, his body sliding down its surface as if he was doing skating.


    The Rhinol growled as it stomped its feet against the ground, causing a few spiderweb-like cracks to form below it. A dust cloud rose around its body, as its Mystic Power rose even sharper when it lowered its head, showing its three ring horns.


    "Ha, want to impale me? Not happening..." Marius ushered, as a smirk came on his face when the look in his eyes changed.


    Suddenly, Marius, who was sliding along the spire vanished after a strange light formed around his body, the earth on which he previously stood now had ripples on its surface as if it was liquid.


    A few secondster, Marius appeared behind the Rhinol with his battle-ax raised in his vein-filled muscr arms. If one looked below his feet, they would notice that a strange ripple formed as if he was standing at the center of a pool.


    Marius didn''t waste a moment to chop his ax horizontally as it made a whooshing noise when it cut through the wind. Before the Rhinol could even notice the danger, the battle-ax had severed its head from its body, tossing it into the air as his neck spewed up a gush of blood.


    The other Rhinol grew even more furious as it saw Marius killed itspanion, its eyes turned blood red as it lifted its head and growled furiously.


    "Raooooor!" With its roar, its energies scattered about wildly pushing away rocks and other obstacles in the vicinity.


    However, despite this change, Marius didn''t show any change in expression as he vanished after lightly tapping his foot against the ground. In that instant, a few obscure ripples were noticed on the earth, appearing at separate locations in a rapid fashion as if someone was stepping on water.


    In less than three seconds, Marius had appeared on one of these ripples, his figure now standing directly before the Rhinol as if he didn''t care if it attacked.


    The Rhinol now berserk didn''t even care that Marius had appeared in its face; it merely lunged towards him with all its might as its three horns that gleamed sinisterly were only one moment from piercing into his skin.


    Marius gave a teasing look as he spoke as if he didn''t mind it, "I could have killed you with your guard down, but I need to test my defense, you see... Strengthen All..."


    Following his words, Marius''s body exploded with his Mystic Power as his muscles bulged and grew sturdier. His body now carried a strong feeling as even his skin tone had a darker hue.


    Ping! The moment the Rhinol''s horn''s struck into his raised palm, Marius only heard the sound of metal colliding, he looked down and realized that he only felt a tinge of pain, as a slight amount of blood leaked from a tiny point where the horn struck, looking more like a needle wound.


    The Rhinol, having used its all-out attack, looked at Marius in horror when its berserk faded; it wanted to retreat, but sadly, it was toote.


    Whoosh! Marius''s ax cut through the wind at high speeds, as it sliced the Rhinol into two separate halves, its insides spilling out at is center along with its blood.


    Marius then stared at this indifferently and waved the ax, causing the blood on its edges to stter on the lush ground. He made a satisfied look while thinking, ''So my thoughts were correct, my defenses were more than enough to block its full power if I used my [Strengthen All] technique, I''m even able to utilize thosebat skills after learning them once properly. It seems that much like on earth, I can grasp aplete understanding of any skill so long as I learn it.''


    As Marius finished his thoughts, a notification soon after sounded in his mind.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You have defeated two Three Horned Rhinol, converting both creatures'' life force into EXP.]


    Ding!


    [You have leveled up!]


    ____


    Marius was excited at this, he wanted to check his stats, but at this time, another roar sounded nearby.


    "ROAR!" The savage growl had a terrifying aura behind it, Marius felt his skin crawl just by the energies from its shout.


    Nevertheless, rather than showing fear, Marius''s eyes shone like thosemonly seen on a young boy who discovered a new toy. He made a faint smile as he hoisted the battle-ax over his shoulder with one arm, and began to walk directly towards the source while thinking, ''Heh, it''s attracted by the blood of the fallen, since its roar was big I could assume that its taste will be equivalent. Good, no matter that it is, I will take it home for the Ria and those kids to eat for breakfast.''


    As if the creature heard Marius''s thoughts another roar sounded from nearby, not long after, arge silhouette had appeared before Marius, causing his eyes to shine with fierceness as a new battle was only moments away from beginning.

 Chapter 18: Crushing the Elite Three Horned Rhinol

    Chapter 18: Crushing the Elite Three Horned Rhinol


    The mood turned grim, as the scene within the forest had changed entirely, Marius''s eyes narrowed as he nced at the newly arrived entity, one that caused even himself to feel a slight notion of danger just from its appearance.


    It was a giant version of the Three Horned Rhinol, a beast that was nearly ten metersrge with a scar on its forehead. It''s three horns more than triple the size of its other kin as they each gleamed in a sharp ray.


    Roooaaar! With a loud growl, its body erupted with its earthen colored energies that sent ripples across the area as if dering its presence.


    Marius looked at the beast before him with sharp eyes as he had to cross his arms to resist the force behind its fierce breath. His body had even slid back by a few meters as his feet crushed apart the stones that were in his path.


    ''Such a fierce guy, I wonder how strong it is?'' As Marius thought to here, his eyes flickered in strange lights as hemanded inwardly, ''Inspect."


    ____


    Ding!


    [Elite Three Horned Rhinol]


    [Race: Mystic Beast]


    [Level: 14]


    [Stamina: F]


    [Strength: F]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: G]


    [Abilities:]


    ...


    [Earth Spire - Lvl Max]


    [ss: Rank 1 Skill]


    [Description: The ability to cause a sharp rock protrusion tounch itself from the earth towards its foe.]


    ...


    [Earth Armor - Lvl Max]


    [ss: Rank 1 Skill]


    [Description: The ability to cause an armor of rock to form around its body, increasing its strength by () One Stars.]


    ____


    ''It''s strong... I might need to take this more seriously after all,'' Marius thought as he firmly clenched his fist before he focused his attention on the Elite Three Horned Rhinol with sharp eyes.


    As if it sensed his battle intent, it furiously red at him before stomping its huffs onto the ground.


    Rumble! Moments after, the ground trembled as its earthen colored energies sunk below the earth, causing a feeling of danger to arise within Marius.


    "It''s using that Earth Spire; I cannot take this one head-on!" Marius said before he lowered his posture, send his Mystic Power into his legs as he waited for the right chance.


    As if the moment had arrived, the ground burst open with a loud bang as arge Earth Spire that was twice the speed of the others rose. It struck at Marius''s underbelly and was only one step from turning him into a skewered corpse.


    Marius, who had readied himself, tapped the ground with his feet causing it to ripple oddly before his figure vanished.


    In that instant, his body moved so quickly that it seemed as if he was sliding on the ground as he twisted to the side, narrowly avoiding the Earth Spire, which swept past his body.


    However, after dodging, Marius didn''t stop for one second, as he continued to charge with the unusual watery ripples appearing below his feet with each step.


    Unlike its weaker kin, the Elite Three Horned Rhinol had much sharper senses and could easily pick up Marius''s movements.


    "Roar!" The Elite Three Horned Rhinol roared as if it decided to end everything in one attack, stomping the ground as it invoked its Earth Armor skill.


    Rumble! In moments, a sturdy armor of earth formed over its body, even its horns were enhanced and gleamed even sharper. With a heavy stomp, it charged at Marius with his horns facing forward, moving at a pace once notch below him.


    Swoosh! Both man and beast instantly arrived within each other''s domain, a white energy gathered around Marius''s palms that were now clenched into a fist, but as for the Elite Three Horned Rhinol, its body was emitting a dense amount of earthen colored lights.


    Roar! The Elite Three Horned Rhinol growled as it made one big lunge forward now that it got in range, ensuring to angle its head towards Marius''s small frame.


    "Seven God Fist!" Marius shouted as he punched forward, the wind made screeching noises due to the speed and force behind his attack. In this moment, a ripple had formed before him as a two-meter giant white fist had appeared, striking in synchrony with his arm.


    Crash! The two attacks smashed into each other, sending a shockwave across the woods, but oddly enough, neither of them was critically injured as they were only forced back by a meter''s distance.


    Marius who was the first to recover as he slid backward, looked at his fists that had white smokeing off it in surprise as he spoke, "Tsk! So we''re even, it seems like I''ll have to rely on that weapon after all,"


    As Marius said this, he firmly gripped the handle of the battle-ax, knowing that it should provide enough killing power to make up for their equal strength.


    "Prepare yourself... for it''s your time to die," Marius said with a cold glint in his eyes as he stared at the Elite Three Horned Rhinol while changing his posture.


    He leaned forward with both of his legs crouched as his hands held the long handle of the battle-ax at his side with its dual-edged de behind his head.


    Bang! A terrifying killing intent oozed from his body, sending a chilling feeling to an even superior predator that was now staring at him in fear.


    It all its years, never had the Elite Three Horned Rhinol encountered a smaller creature that could force it back with brute strength. It took a step backward as if trying to reassess the situation and maybe retreat, but sadly that chance would nevere.


    Swoosh! As if like the wind, Marius vanished once again as he used his strange [Pulsing Earth Steps], leaving behind a pulsing ripple on the earth which each of his speedy steps.


    It took only a few seconds to arrive directly at the side of the hesitant Elite Three Horned Rhinol that struck out its horn to counter in fear. Yet sadly, as someone who pretty much learned of all of his opponent''s tricks, Marius easily rendered its attempts useless with his actions.


    He kicked the ground with his leg, jumping into the air as he did a flip over the horns arriving directly before the Elite Three Horned Rhinol''s eyes, he then spun his body like revolving top while airborne as he chopped towards its head.


    "Twisting Gale Swing!" Marius invoked his ax arts, causing a cyclone to scatter from his swing, it swept towards the pale-faced Elite Three Horned Rhinol and instantly broke apart from its Earth Armor due to the augmented power from the battle-ax.


    The Elite Three Horned Rhinol felt helpless as itsst lines of protection were gone, Marius mercilessly swung once more with all his might as yelled, "Cleaving Earth Smasher!"


    Whoosh! The battle-ax cut through the air before smashing onto the unguarded head of the Elite Three Horned Rhinol, chopping through it like a knife through butter before it cut into the ground.


    Bang! At that moment, the remaining force behind the strike was even enough to leave a spiderweb-like crack for a two meters distance on the ground.


    Marius, who nownded on the ground, looked at the battle-ax held before him with a pleased expression as it was lodged into the ground through the massive creature''s head.


    ''I never thought using a battle-ax could be this fun, it truly is a wonderful thing...'' Marius thought with a smirk on his face.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You have defeated an Elite Three Horned Rhinol, converting creature''s life force into EXP.]


    Ding!


    [You have leveled up!]


    Ding!


    [You have leveled up!]


    Ding!


    [Congrattions! As you have reached level six, your innate talent has allowed for all stats to be increased by  One Star.]


    Ding!


    [Congrattions! As one or more core offensive attributes have advanced to G, your Battle Rank has achieved 2 Star G Rank.]


    ____


    ''Ho? Did I rank up? Heh, I''ll look at itter,'' Marius thought with a happy look.


    Not long after, though, he cleared his thoughts and lifted the ax giving it a hard swing to ssh the blood off its edge.


    Marius then hoisted it over one shoulder as he held it with one arm and looked at the sky, as he saw the sun''s position, he estimated the time to be nearing 8 or 9 AM.


    "Looks like I caught it right on time... time to head back, they must all be hungry by now," As Marius said this, he put away his battle-ax in his inventory. He then used his other arm to grasp the Elite Three Horned Rhinol''s body, pulling it towards a sizeable earthen gate that was a fair distance away before he vanished from the outskirts.

 Chapter 19: A Pleasant Day

    Chapter 19: A Pleasant Day


    The day was peaceful, capable of filling even the weariest soul with a tinge of warmness, if one looked at thekeside, they would even notice a stunning pair that yed with each other. One was a grown woman with long green hair as the other was none other than her adorable child that ran at the edges of theke, her tiny little feet sshing up water with her wobbly steps.


    "Hehe! Mama! I win!" The little girl said in a victorious tone as she scooped up a hand full of water and sshed it on her mother''s clothes.


    Ria overreacted and fell on her ample rear as she lifted her hands in defeat while speaking, "Haha! Okay, my Little Rosey, I''ll admit defeat..."


    "Yay!" Little Rose said as she ran to her mother, and as the brave little girl, she started to climb up her legs.


    Ria smiled and let her have her way, watching as Little Rose''s tiny little arms gathered enough power to pull her body up, finally mounting her mother''s knees.


    "I dwid it!" Little Rose said in a cute manner, pumping her fist high, but her body shook from that maneuver, tilting to the side as she was about to fall.


    Ria promptly grasped her before she hit the ground and ce her on her feet, but Little Rose didn''t even seem to mind that danger, her face showed excitement when she pped her palms and spoke, "Mama that''s fun! I want to y again!"


    Ria knew she was referring to falling and being caught, she sighed and rubbed her head as she spoke, "No, that was too dangerous, remember my Little Rose you must be careful."


    While Little Rose was a bit disappointed, she looked at her mother and answered in an obedient tone, "Okway."


    "Good, nowe on, let''s dry up, your father should be back with food any moment now..."Ria said, she knew her husband well and understood that the first thing he would do even if he were to explore the wilds of a brand newnd was bring back food.


    Little Rose nodded as she lifted her arms, wanting to be picked up. Ria poked her cheeks as she held her in one arm and brought her away from thekeside.


    However, as she was headed over to the house, she noticed that Grevlin had excited, his eyes ere beaming as if he was eager to try something out.


    Ria was puzzled, she walked over to him and spoke with a smile, "Grev-Grev... what''s going on? What''s got my little boy so happy?"


    Grevlin was originally happy about the new technique he got, but as he heard his mother''s words, his face changed as he showed a bit of hesitancy.


    ''Old Uncle said not to tell others about the secret, I mustn''t do it...'' Grevlin thought as he made an awkward look and tried to change the topic.


    "Mother, I-I''m only eager to try out my strength, I think my arms might be a little better now...'' Grevlin said with a slightly forced smile.


    Of course, being his mother, Ria knew that those words were a lie, she gave him a deep look before she pouted and faked a sad look as she spoke, "Oh my, my little Grev-Grev has started lying to me, I... I am such a poor mother... you don''t trust me anymore..."


    Grevlin was a bit startled by this; even if he was smart, he was still a child, and like all children, they are easy to mislead.


    "Eh? Mother, no! I-It''s not like that, Old Uncle taught me a secret that I mustn''t tell anyone else!" Grevlin said innocently and naively as he lost all rationality when he saw his mother looking sad.


    Little Rose red at him and pointed her finger as she spoke cutely, "Brwother is bad! I... I will tell Dadda brwother made Mama cry!"


    Grevlin seeing this didn''t know what he was going to do, he felt like he was about to cry, but Ria smirked, she removed fake expression and rubbed his head as she spoke, "Hehe! Mother is only teasing you, child,e on now, chin up, remember you''re the big brother."


    Grevlin, hearing his mother''s words, wiped the corners of his eyes and nodded his head. He looked and saw that Little Rose still ring at him, he poked her on the cheek which somehow seemed to have a diffusing effect as she giggled, changing from an adorable stern look to a yful smile as sheughed.


    The Mountain Ax Senior, who had only now exited the house, was about to cut wood. Still, as he saw the cute family scene he couldn''t help but show a gentle look in his eyes, like another elder, they take pride in seeing the youths of society, knowing that they are the future of all kind.


    As if he decided something, the Mountain Ax Senior looked at them and spoke, "Little ones, aren''t you hungry? How about this old man whip something up for breakfast?"


    Little Rose and Grevlin had watery mouths, but as if they had a custom, neither of them spoke and only stared at their mother.


    Ria looked at the Mountain Ax Senior before making a slight bow as she replied, "Esteemed Senior, your offer is great, but anytime now, my hus..."


    Ria was about to say something, but as if her word''s summoned the person she mentioned. A bright light shed at the gate as tworge silhouettes appeared.


    One was the tall and muscr Marius as the other was none other than the ginormous corpse of the Elite Three Horned Rhinol that he carried with one arm.


    Her rejection didn''t anger the Mountain Ax Senior; he looked at Marius with a smile as he nodded his head as he thought, "Well now, he managed to defeat a fairly decent lower rank beast in the edge of the outskirts, not bad at all, I guess he truly is an otherworlder, it''s easier for them to level up and achieve higher ranks."


    Ria''s eyes beamed as she saw her husband, as Little Rose shouted excitedly, "Dadda!"


    Grevlin was a bit more reserved, but he wanted to run over and grab his arms.


    Marius looked at everyone as the lights behind vanished, leaving only the door with the glowing pathway that soon after faded.


    He smirked as he raised the arm holding the giant corpse as his other waved the battle-ax when he spoke like a brute, "Haha, everyone, I''ve brought breakfast!"


    Ria handed Little Rose over to Grevlin and hurried over while looking at it, her eyes showing satisfaction as she thought inwardly, ''Honey is truly the best even in this world. He''s able to defeat such a beast so easily despite his current level...''


    Marius saw Ria scrutinizing the corpse and smiled as he spoke, "Ria, do you need me to help you prepare it?"


    Ria looked up at him and smiled as she spoke, "No! I can take it from here,"


    Following her words, she grabbed therge corpse from out of Marius''s arm and carried it away at a corner as if it wasn''t heavy.


    Marius made certain to pay attention to this, as his eyes shed when he saw how casually she lifted it. He shook his head before looking at Grevlin, and Little Rose spoke, "Kids,e, let''s y until mother fixes breakfast,"


    "Yay!" Grevlin and Little Rose said as Grevlin hurried over with his sister in his arms.


    The Mountain Ax Senior looked at this and spoke while heading to chop wood, "Marius, I''ll be joining your family for breakfast, there''s something I want to speak to you about..."


    Marius was a bit curious as he heard this, he looked at him and asked, "Oh, about what?"


    The Mountain Ax Senior sat down before the stumps with a pile of wood, as he rubbed his hands together and picked up his battle-ax.


    After doing this, he nted his head to the side and stared at Marius as he spoke in a voice that trailed towards his ears, "I will teach you about the Battle Standard of this world..."

 Chapter 20: Rias Cooking, Valorias Combat Standards

    Chapter 20: Ria''s Cooking, Valoria''s Combat Standards


    A wonderous scent lingered in the air as the smell of cooked meat wafted towards the noses of all in the vicinity. Grevlin and Little Rose were currently wearing excited expressions as their eyes shone while their mouth drooled, it seemed that they were rather hungry, but their patience was only moments away from being rewarded.


    Little Rose tightly gripped Marius''s shirt corners as she tugged it to get his attention, Marius looked down at his adorable little daughter that looked at him in a pleading manner.


    "Dadda! Is it rweady?" Little Rose as she pointed towards Ria''s direction with her small fingers.


    Marius smiled and rubbed her head as he replied, "My Little Rose, don''t worry, your mother will be finished any minute now..."


    "Mm," Little Rose closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling of her head rub, she seemed rather contented being given the necessary attention and care a child her age deserved.


    Grevlin was also listening, he made a relieved expression as he heard it was almost ready, casting his eyes over to his mother''s direction were clusters of purple mes were flickering.


    ''It smells so good; I can''t wait to taste it...'' Grevlin thought with excitement visible in his eyes as he balled up his palms into a fist.


    Marius was also intrigued as he had never eaten anything in this world, when he saw Ria''s deft movements and actions, he naturally assumed that she''s eaten this type of creature before despite being a Hellian from the Hellshrire.


    Not long after, the me died down as Ria started to walk over with onerge pot and a small pot. In a few moments, she had arrived before everyone, cing the pots down onto therge wooden table.


    Thergest pot was filled to the brim with well-cooked meat from the Elite Three Horned Rhinol, as the smaller bowl had a chunk of steamed vegetables.


    At this time, a few tes that had unique fruits arranged inside of them were already on the table as special looking forks and knives were alreadyid out with cloths and cups filled with water.


    ''Ahh... so fragrant it must taste good,'' Marius thought as the scenting from the pot was even better up close, he looked and saw that the meat had a golden brown color giving him an urge to take a bite of it.


    Little Rose in Marius''s arms couldn''t seem to wait as she stretched her palms out and spoke, "I... I want to ewat!"


    Grevlin also seemed as if he couldn''t bear to wait, but he held himself back, he naturally had to wait until it was shared.


    In fact, the Mountain Ax Senior was the one having the hardest time, it didn''t even seem like he liked to cook anything as if he had been surviving off the energies from the world itself. Who knows how long it had been since he hadst eaten a well-prepared meal?


    Ria smirked as she looked at everyone and spoke, "Pssh, jeez, why are you all acting like this? Hurry up and eat, take your own shares..."


    As Ria said this, she picked up Little Rose from Marius and broke off a small section of meat which she then handed her.


    Little Rose didn''t even waste any time to stuff her face with it, chewing in an adorable matter as cheeks became puffy.


    As she chewed the vors flowed down her mouth, causing her eyes to shine even brighter before she swallowed and spoke in joy, "Yummy! Yummy! Mama! I want mwore!"


    Ria smiled as she broke another small piece off and spoke as she gave it to her, "Come now, eat slowly,"


    Marius didn''t have time to watch Ria feed his daughter, by now, he was fighting a fierce battle against not only his son but the dangerous old man that hadn''t eaten a delicacy in years.


    Nom-nom-nom!


    The sounds of mouth chewing resounded as the Mountain Ax Senior bit off arge chunk of meat, chewing down even the bone.


    Marius didn''t even seem to hesitate to copy the former as his te was now covered in head size chunks of meat, even his mouth seemed no different from a motor engine as it continuously gobbled down the food.


    Grevlin despite his hunger was a bit more modest and neater, typically he would have been fed by Marius, but much to his surprise he found that his arms could hold these types of tableware with ease. Though, the ones held by him were a bit deformed due to hisck of control over his arms strength.


    Ria smiled as she noticed this, she knew that these spoons and forks were crafted artifacts used by households in this world, children from strong families are generally born with extraordinary power and before they can control it they had to use such means.


    The Mountain Ax Senior nodded as he wiped the corner of his dirty mouth and spoke his thoughts out loud, "Wow, this is good, there are rarely any Hellians that knows how to properly prepare these kinds of local monsters."


    Marius felt a bit proud hearing this, he looked at him and spoke, "Haha, my wife is always the best at cooking, I''ve always told her that she had blessed hands..."


    Ria smiled at this, giving Marius a loving look as she ate while feeding Little Rose. However, her eyes shifted at the Mountain Ax Senior as she thought, ''Hmm, he speaks as if he''s eaten from another of my kind why would an Artiman such as himself even dare to eat with those of my race? Could it be that he was once close to someone of ours?''


    Ria couldn''t quite understand him even now, as she didn''t even expect that he would even be so generous with her kind, she wrote it off as him having some kind of goodwill to her husband because of his talents.


    The Mountain Ax Senior looked over at the family with warm eyes that grew a bit moist as if recalling something, but that soon faded away as he stared at Marius with a more profound look.


    Marius who had been paying attention to him lowered his fork and wiped his mouth, it seemed he realized that he was about to start the topic at hand.


    "Marius, so far, what do you know of this world?" The Mountain Ax Senior asked as he had already expected him to gather quite some knowledge from his time in the study.


    Marius promptly replied, "Senior, I have learned mostly on the culture of the Grant Alvaria Dynasty, and a bit about the various races and their sses. Other than that, I have learned the various grades of Combat Arts, Inborn Abilities, as well as a few bits of knowledge on the different kinds of creatures in this world."


    The Mountain Ax Senior nodded his head at this as he scratched his beard while looking at the sky, he looked at Marius once again and spoke, "Good, I suppose that''s enough foundational knowledge, I shall guide you a bit on our Combat Standards..."


    As the Mountain Ax Senior said this, his eyes shed as he spoke again, "The ranks for power in our world are divided in ten realms, the first seven being separated by sses from G, F, E, D, C, B, and A. The other three are ssified as Supreme Rank, Legendary Rank and fabled rank of legends known as the Divine Rank. Lifeforms in this world are born with the ability to conjure Mystical Power further enhancing our capabilities be it physical or through the direct use of these energies. The more we practice, or dobat, the stronger we can be. How our ranks increase over time is dependent on our Innate Talents and Mystical Power Arts."


    When Marius heard this, his eyes turned stern as just fromparing his current level''s he knew he was far away from the standard required to act wantonly in this world.


    Ria knew full well about these ranks, her Hellian kind naturally had the same divisions of strength, very much like those of the Spiritan Race.


    Little Rose didn''t seem to mind this conversation and was happily eating, as Grevlin showed an innocent but clever look as he observed while chewing away.


    The Mountain Ax Senior once more continued, "Talent is the fundamental factor that determines one''s destination. If you are born with high talents, you will be destined for great things, but once you are born with poor gifts the world will treat you in kind. It is for this very reason that all major forces within the Grand Alvaria Dynasty will stop at nothing to recruit any talented individual that is discovered."


    As the Mountain Ax Senior spoke, he waved his hand causing an image of a charge showing five different colored circles to appear.


    He then spoke again, "Talent is never the same for everyone as it is divided into five grades and is marked by the sessful advance from different ranks, for instance in the case of a G Rank Warrior to an E Rank Warrior. If these individuals can grow with one Combat Attribute, attribute meaning your physical strength, mystical power, or even personal speed. Then it would mean that they are considered as Fifth Grade Talents. Fourth Grade Talents are those who can grow with two Combat Attributes, and the others are vice versa. Naturally, only those who can grow by two to three are considered the True Talents in this world, while those who can grow by four are considered as Peerless Talents. These persons are mostly amongst Otherworlders with the best of them achieving First ss or even more rarely, extremely gifted sons and daughters born once every generation of the royal breed and high-ss families of each race."


    When Marius heard this his eyes flickered in surprise as if he realized something, he looked at his hands while in thought, ''Then, if even most Otherworlders are limited to the Second Grade, doesn''t this mean that I...?''


    The Mountain Ax Senior smirked as if he knew what he was thinking, his eyes shone in a bright ray as he spoke, "Yes, that''s right, I see that your power is divided into five synchronous phases suggesting that you are of the exceedingly rare First ss, and ever since the ancient times, you can be considered as one of the most talented living beings currently in this world."


    "No shit..." Marius thought to himself, he felt a bit excited at this as he knew the more talent he had, the easier it will be to protect his family with his strength.


    Ria also looked at Marius with bright eyes, she already knew about his talents since long ago, but simrly, she knew of its ws, causing her smile to have a hint of regret in it.


    The Mountain Ax Senior took this chance to address it, as his manner turned stern when he spoke, "However while being talented is one thing, ites with its cost..."


    When Marius heard this, he frowned as he looked at the Mountain Senior, the mood here turned different as they stared at each other building up to an even more dreadful truth.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 21: The Curse of the Gifted

    Chapter 21: The Curse of the Gifted


    The air was a bit tense as Marius, Ria, and the Mountain Ax Senior stared at each other in silence, each with a different expression as Marius was the only person who had a look of curiosity on his face.


    Grevlin and the adorable Little Rose were currently without a care in the world, unaware of the tension between adults.


    As if the Mountain Ax Senior had wait long enough, he stared at Marius and spoke, "For every talent to advance to the higher rank, they will each require a period by which their body will need to adjust their mystic power. Weaker talents such as those of the Fifth Grade have weaker bodies and generally require a long period, but greater talents have to wait for lesser periods."


    Marius didn''t see a problem with that as it would only mean that he''d be able to strengthen faster, but it was at this point, both Ria and the Mountain Ax Senior''s face turned solemn.


    The Mountain Ax Senior spoke again, "That isn''t much of a problem, but the world has its means of bnce. It is to such an extent that many of termed it as the Curse of the Gifted, for all ranks advanced, every person must undergo its trial, the weaker the talent of that individual, the easer the test bestowed upon them by the Divine Rules of the world. For cases such as Fifth Grade talents, they won''t even have to make an effort to pass the test given, but for those of the Third Grade and higher, things will be different, it''s not infrequent that many talents lose their lives due to these very tests, not to mention for someone like yourself. So, Marius, my words to you are this; never you dare to ck off on increasing your mastery and knowledge of Combat Arts, the stronger you are, the better you''ll be able to ovee your Advancement Trials."


    Marius had a dark look on his face, but he pretty much understood everything that the Mountain Ax Senior had told him.


    He made a polite gesture and spoke, "Thank you for telling me these details. I will do my best to ensure that I never fall to any of them..."


    The Mountain Ax Senior gave Marius a good look before the tension vanished as he smiled and spoke while drinking a bottle of wine, "Haha, why so serious? From what I''ve seen, you should be more than capable of handling even the first two or three Advancements Trials, based on your current level of skill mastery and usage. So, fret not, I expect to see great things from you in the future..."


    Marius smiled, not saying anything, he knew of his current strength, and if it was anything he didn''tck, it was confidence in his ability to improve and ovee any difficulties.


    Ria looked at the two men and smiled while thinking, ''My husband is naturally the strongest, he will be able to ovee any odds.''


    While Ria was thinking, she suddenly felt her shirt being pulled, she looked down and saw that Little Rose was currently rubbing her eyes with a somewhat sleepy look as she stared up at her and spoke, "Mama... I''m slweepy..."


    Ria couldn''t help but find it cute; she yed with Little Rose''s cheek with her fingers as she spoke, "Okay my little darling, let''s go rest."


    As Ria said this, she picked up Little Rose and stood up from the table, giving both Marius and the Mountain Ax Senior and nodded before leaving for the house.


    Marius watched as Ria left with a warm smile, but his eyes soon stared at the slender waist and ample buttocks that shook from side to side as her hair danced.


    The Mountain Ax Senior nced at Marius and sighed as he murmured, "Oh... the joys of youth, look at the time, it''s almost noon and an old man like me should also get to chopping..."


    Marius felt a bit embarrassed at those words, he knew what he was implying by ''chopping,'' the Mountain Ax Senior chuckled and didn''t say anything to tease Marius, he merely got up and went over to his log.


    However, as if he recalled something, he turned and saw that Grevlin was sleeping with his head resting on the outdoor wooden table with drooling from his mouth corners.


    He smirked before he nced at Marius and spoke, "Marius, I forgot to mention, but your son is not the ordinary boy, his potential vastly exceeds even yours, I trust that you know what you should do, how you should raise him..."


    Marius understood what he meant, he gave him a good look before he stared at Grevlin with pride as he gently rubbed his ck hair while speaking, "I know, he is my pride after all, the things I can''t do, he will be able to achieve..."


    The Mountain Ax Senior nodded at this, not saying anymore, he didn''t even tell him about the technique he had given him, nor did Marius ask, he left that to Grevlin as it was his own secret.


    ''Well, since he''s asleep I can''t train him today, if he wakes up a little earlier, I''ll take him to the wilds, if I can get him to the max level of his growth limit that would be nice. That inborn skill of his is also quite incredible, I''ll need to have him maximize it as well,'' Marius thought as his eyes glowed in bright lights, causing him to see and understand all of Grevlin''s details.


    After thinking to here, Marius then took up Grevlin and brought him towards the direction of the house, he wanted to let him rest morefortably, and it also needed to ease his burdens before he went off training.


    The Mountain Ax Senior turned towards his direction but said nothing as he curiously stared at the bright sky while thinking, ''It will be a fascinating month. I wonder, just how much can they all grow...''


    After thinking this, he no longer pondered it as it lifted up and arge chunk of wood before raising his great ax with one arm as its edge glistened in a sharp ray.


    The scene here returning to peace as now only the sounds of chopping were heard, the pleasant melody of the wood being split merging with the songs of the fragrant winds that blew across the surroundings.

 Chapter 22: The Potential of the Tiger Cubs, A Trip to Hell

    Chapter 22: The Potential of the Tiger Cubs, A Trip to Hell


    Time flowed on and based on the sun''s position and warm looking sky, it was roughly around 2 PM. At this hour, Little Rose was already sleeping like an adorable angel on top of her mother, who was simrly at rest.


    Grevlin was also soundly sleeping as Marius sat up with a sour face while staring in the direction of his wife, the sheet was loosely covering her glossy skin that was exposed, capable of stirring the souls of any man.


    Marius sighed as he thought to himself, ''Looks like I''ll need to hold off untilter...''


    After thinking those thoughts, he bit his lips and calm himself down before looking at his stats sheet.


    ____


    [Name: Marius Edgewick]


    [Status: Chosen Born - Inheritor of this status is born with umon abilities.]


    [Level: 6 | Age: 29]


    [Race: Human]


    [Battle Rank: 2 Star G Rank Warrior]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: G]


    [Mastery Points - 10]


    [Inborn Abilities:]


    [Strengthen All | Level 5]


    [Mastery: 165/8000]


    [Description - An inborn skill that allows the Host to strengthen anything he wishes, current effects on battle power are limited to an increase of Five  Stars.]


    [Effects: Based on current Mystic Power, this technique can be utilized at maximum capacity for 4 Minutes, exceeding this limit will cause severe side effects.]


    ____


    When Marius saw his current details, he nodded his head in satisfaction for his current progress; he then nced at his Mastery Points and frowned while thinking, ''As I''ve thought, these points aren''t going to be so easily attainable. I''ll need to work even harder; I haven''t even invoked a Daily Mission since I got here... it seems that constant battle is the only way.''


    After wrapping up his ponderings, Marius looked outside at the day nearing its end, he thought for a bit before getting up and heading out as he wanted to train again before nightfall.


    Marius prepared to move, but his eyes soon shifted to the ground, there he notices that the two adorable looking tigers cubs were currently sprawled over.


    ''Hmm? Come to think of it; I didn''t check out these little guys now, did I? Let''s have a looksy,'' Marius thought as his eyes glowed as hemanded for their details to appear before his eyes.


    ____


    [zing Ice ck Tiger]


    [Status: Mutated Infant | Extreme Growth Potiental]


    [Level: 1]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: F]


    [Abilities:]


    [zing Breath - An attack that spews a st of mes towards its foes.]


    [Ice Breath - An attack that spews a st of frost wind towards its foes.]


    ...


    [Heavenly Light White Tiger]


    [Status: Mutated Infant | Extreme Growth Potiental]


    [Level: 2]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: G]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: F]


    [Abilities:]


    [Light Ray - An attack that shoots a ray of light powers towards its foes.]


    [Light Field - An domain type of attack that covers a small radius with light powers, this field can be used to suppress or heal those in the affected range.]


    ____


    Marius was a bit surprised upon seeing their stats; he couldn''t help but stare at the cute little tiger cubs as he contemted, ''Wow! Are these Third ss Mystic Beasts, to think their talent was so great, hmm, Extreme Growth Potential... I wonder what this means?''


    As Marius''s thoughts reached here, the system seemed to have heard his words as it promptly replied.


    ____


    [Replying to Host, Extreme Growth Potential is one of the ssifications of all living creatures, many beings are born with limits or different sses of potential. However, those born with the EGP Factor are all capable of achieving Second to First Grade Standard.]


    ____


    Marius hearing those words made a look of understanding as he thought, ''Incredible, so they can grow to such a scale, it seems that my children are truly blessed to have acquired such creatures.''


    Marius felt his mood rise, he rose to his feet and prepared to leave for some more training, but he noticed that Grevlin rubbed his eyes and yawned as he slowly sat up on the bed.


    Marius looked at him gently before his face hardened as he spoke, "Grevlin, I am heading out to train, now that you are up, its time I taught you about the works."


    Grevlin who had only just rubbed his eyes looked at Marius with a somewhat dazed look, but as if he only heard his words, his face soon brightened as he jumped to his feet and spoke, "Train? Okay father, I want toe too,"


    Marius nodded; he knew that Grevlin had mistaken his words for ying, but he didn''t want to remind him for now. He promptly picked up the battle-ax he left at the side of his room and walked out the door while speaking, "Come on, let''s head out now, we muste back before the nightfall."


    "Okay," Grevlin replied softly, ensuring not to disturb his mother and little sister.


    Yet, as both left, Ria, who seemingly slept, nced towards their direction with a strange look in her eyes. Her mouth corners curved into a smile as she murmured, "So, my little Grev-Grev is going to start his first real training; this should be fun..." As she said this, both her and Little Rose faded after a clump of purple mes ignited around them.


    Moments after, the mes vanished as no one remained in the room, and the scene was now one of silence. The two soon left the building, as Grevlin ran off to theke to wash his face while Marius stood at the stone doorway with the gate that led to the outskirts of this strange mountain range.


    Currently, the Mountain Ax Senior was currently missing, causing Marius to looked at the empty log with a few scattered bits of wood in puzzlement, but he paid it no mind.


    Not long after, Grevlin had returned from theke with his face soaked wet as he spoke with an innocent smile, "Father I''m back,"


    Marius sighed at this as he stooped down and dried his face with his shirt. Grevlin seemed to enjoy this kind of treatment as he closed his eyes, enjoying his father''s care.


    "All done,e now, your real training starts today," Marius said with a gentle smile as he walked forward into the strange portal.


    Grevlin looked at this curiously before he simrly followed along, the two silhouettes vanishing from this area through a screen that rippled as if they left through a ripplingke.


    ***


    The outskirts were rather peaceful as all the morning activity had faded by a section. The more powerful predators had already gotten their day''s fill, leaving behind the weak to scuffle around in search of prey.


    At this time, a small critter was currently scurrying about a patch of grass; it was a peculiar beast, one that was roughly three times the size of a regr house cat, with simr features and striped skin. Its only difference was its tree eyes and tail which had a glowing purple crystal embedded within it.


    This creature was the Crystal Tail Cat, a fragile but savage beast of the lower ranks, very adept at survival with as it was born with astonishing speed and dexterity.


    The Crystal Tail Cat was currently moving through the underbrush in a stealth manner. Still, as if it noticed something, its ears twitched as its slit pupils peeked out of the shrubs towards two individuals of varying sizes that had only now appeared from a strange-looking door.


    Its eyes showed a trace of hesitance as it stared at thergest figure, but as it nced at the smaller individual who was only a few stepsrger than itself, its eyes glowed in a cold ray as it perched itself in attacking posture.


    Marius, who had just now scanned his surroundings with his instinctive mastery of his Mystic Power, had sensed the nearby Crystal Tail Cat that was waiting below in a valley.


    However, Marius only smirked as he nced at Grevlin, looking around curiously on his face, an innocent look that would make one want to hug him.


    Marius''s face turned cold, very much like that of a stern and hard father as he spoke, "Grevlin"


    When Grevlin heard this, he looked up at Marius innocently and replied, "Yes, father?"


    Marius reached his hand onto Grevlin''s back and picked him up, Grevlin thought Marius was going to y with him, but much to his shock, Marius tossed him in the direction of the Crystal Tail Cat causing his heart to sink as he spoke, "Survive..."


    A cold sounding voice as Marius seemed to have faded into the surroundings, but as for Grevlin, he was merely one step from falling into hell.

 Chapter 23: A Fierce Struggle Between Boy and Beast

    Chapter 23: A Fierce Struggle Between Boy and Beast


    Never in his life did Grevlin think that such a scene would ur, he had been bullied in school, mocked by others, but the one he trusted the most, was his father. The sturdy figure that always lifted him and yed with him, gently patting his head and giving motivation, even feeding him soup whenever he caught the flu.


    Now, that gentle and kind looking father had gazed at him coldly as he tossed him into the bushes towards a deep valley of unknown creatures, telling him only to survive.


    "Faaaatheeeer!" Grevlin shouted, but because he was distracted, his back smashed against arge rock, causing arge bruise.


    "Ack!" Grevlin wailed in pain as his body bounced from the rock, flying into the air as he now fell further down into the deep valley.


    Grevlin gritted his teeth as he held his back, trying to suck up the pain; he learned that this wasn''t the time to lose focus after suffering from that hit. He looked down and noticed that around him were a myriad of protruding rocks, and at the speed at which he was falling, any of them could be a hazard.


    Grevlin at this moment felt strange; his breathing calmed as he hurriedly tried to bnce himself as he fell from above, his heart pumping at an elerated pace as his brain became filled with endorphins.


    Swish! Instantly, Grevlin had managed to catch onto a nearby rock; his powerful fingers crushed most of the area grabbed due to their force before he finally managed to bnce himself to a standstill.


    "Whew, I''m safe..." Grevlin said, his face showing a look of relief.


    Yet, this was only an illusion as by this time, the previously hiding Crystal Tail Cat had already acted.


    Whoosh! With a jump from its four legs, it bounced from the ground towards a few rocks as it rapidly charged towards Grevlin with a vicious looking face.


    Grevlin, who had unknowingly sensed the danger, looked at this in a panic, he thought to himself, "Oh no! W-what do I do?"


    The Crystal Tail Cat wasn''t the size of an average cat, and its eyes savagely red at him; even its nails and teeth were longer and sharper than most tigers. He knew what would happen if it were to arrive at his position.


    In an instant, the Crystal Tail Cat had arrived before him with its sharp ws cruelly slicing towards his neck.


    Grevlin, in this moment of danger had a change; his mind grew clear as he recalled a few words from his even younger years, words spoken by his father.


    "Son, there will alwayse a time where a man must learn to face his fears, using every ounce of your power to strive for livelihood. Remember, life isn''t a game... and everything around you is apetitor for survival," Marius''s voice resounded in Grevlin''s mind, causing his face to transform. He no longer showed a look of panic or fear as he bit lips and shouted.


    "I... I won''t fall as prey!" Grevlin yelled as he let go of the boulder that kept his bnce and crossed his arms in front of him to parry the rapid assault.


    Ting! As if two metals collided, the Crystal Tail Cat''s sharp gleaming nails left three white lines on the back of Grevlin''s arms that shown no traces of injury.


    As if shocked by this, the Crystal Tail Cat looked at Grevlin in wonderment, but as an experienced predator, it also didn''t hesitate to follow up its attack.


    The Crystal Tail Cat began to twirl its body in frontward flip before it swung its tail as if using a whip to wack Grevlin on his arms.


    Smack! The force pushed Grevlin from his position towards depths of the valley where he crashed into the grassy earth before spitting up a bit of blood.


    ''Darn... it''s so strong...'' Grevlin thought he wiped the blood from his mouth corners and slowly picked himself up from the ground.


    At this time, Grevlin didn''t seem injured, even his arms that were had suffered the brunt of the attacks were unphased.


    If one looked at him now, they would notice that his manner was akin to a fighter''s, contemting a variety of measures to defeat his foe.


    The Crystal Tail Cat soon after fell down from its previous airborne assault; itnded a few meters away from Grevlin as it sized him up with a more serious and cautious look in its eyes.


    Both young and cat staring at each other as the afternoon''s cool winds whisked away from the leaves and flora of the surrounding.


    The Crystal Tail Cat lowered its posture as if setting to make a charge, its hair rasing upwards in a threatening manner as if flowed due its Mystical Power that emanated from its body.


    Grevlin, who had assumed a simple battle posture with both of his arms raised and his legs crouched, stared at the Crystal Tail Cat with solemness.


    However, if one were to stare at his face more carefully, they would notice that his lips had curved into a smile as he even licked the side that a few bits of blood.


    Swoosh! Instantly, both charged towards each other moving at rapid speeds as a fierce battle began between youth and beasts.


    A distance away from this scene, Marius was currently observing in silence as he sat on top of a tree branch, he watched as they shed about the woods like nimble cheetahs while struggling for dominance.


    ''Hmm, Ria was right, only by struggling in this kind of setting would he truly awaken the nature suppressed within him, the very nature of his Hellian blood...'' Marius thought as he watched keenly.


    Unknown to Marius, Ria was also nearby, observing from the darkest part of the woods, her entire being shrouded by shadows as she watched on in silence.


    As time passed, Grevlin was growing more used to battle, even assuming unusual battle stances. He got fewer wounds from the Crystal Tail Cat which attacked areas that his arms couldn''t protect, by simply anticipating it an countering it with his instincts forbat.


    The battle continued until evening started to fade into the dark of night, at this point, both the Crystal Tail Cat had separated for a few meters.


    Grevlin was exhausted, but his eyes shone with a radiant will for battle, even his manner was a bit strange as he spoke, "Come at me cat! I will not lose to you!"


    Those words angered the Crystal Tail Cat; it didn''t like the fact that it couldn''t easily hunt the small and weaker prey like this before it.


    Meo! The Crystal Tail Cat ushered as if it had decided to go in with an unusual move for its kill, the crystal on its tail began to glow in bright purple light as its eyes simrly glowed.


    Grevlin''s eyes shed as if he was expecting this; he raised one arm forward and spoke like amander, "Rise and destroy my soldier!"


    A dark mystic power formed over his body as his shadow began to dance strangely, not long after a gray-skinned humanoid that wore a flowing darkbat robe with a small ck knife had appeared.


    It stared at the Crystal Tail Cat with its glowing purple eyes gleamed in a threatening manner as it set itself for battle.


    The Crystal Tail Cat felt even more threatened by the arrival of this odd entity, but it didn''t dare to halt its attack, it put more power into it as it pointed its tail towards Grevlin and shrieked.


    Piiii! Instantly, a purple energy ray fired towards Grevlin and the Darkness Soldier standing in front of him. The Darkness Soldier didn''t even hesitate as it charged towards it and shed out his knife, sending an arc of dark energy towards it.


    BOOM! Both energies collided, but the power from the beam was much higher than the Darkness Soldier''s attack, the remnant energies from the beam smashed into its body before exploding.


    After a while, the lights soon faded from the previous attack and the Crystal Tail Cat now had a look of exhaustion on its face, he stared at the scene before it, but as it saw that both Grevlin and the Darkness Soldier had vanished its face became filled with confusion.


    Marius, who watched his silence, had a proud look on his face as he thought, ''Good boy, this technique must have been that special skill that the old man had taught him, a very handy little maneuver.''


    Ria also smiled in satisfaction as she watched from her end while thinking, ''With this technique, it''s over, a pity, I guess he won''t be able to truly awaken his blood and true instincts from such weaker monsters.''


    As if both of their words were correct, the Crystal Tail Cat''s face changed to one of panic as it sensed a startling amount of danger from behind it. However, before it could even react with its rapid and graceful movements, it was already toote.


    "Illusory Sealing Palms..." A cold voice said as Grevlin appeared out of nowhere, his arm stretched forward as if it ripped through an illusion of invisibility before it touched the Crystal Tail Cat.


    As if it was binding by something, The Crystal Tail Cat felt utter terror as it couldn''t even mobilize its energies. It wanted to fight back, but before it could even try to gather its energies, a sharp cutting sound was heard.


    Swing! With a swing of its knife, the Darkness Soldier which reformed from Grevlin''s shadow, jumped out from below as it chopped the head of the beast off. It then did a flip beforending on the ground as it knelt before Grevlin in a humble and respectful posture.


    Grevlin was now holding onto the Crystal Tail Cat; he red at it coldly before his arm loosened it as a wave of tiredness came over him, the scene around him turning blurry as he fell backward and in an unconscious state.


    Swoosh! At this moment, Marius suddenly appeared behind him, carefully holding him in his arms, the Darkness Soldier looked at Marius before it broke down into the darkness that merged with Grevlin''s shadow.


    "Well fought son," Marius said in a soft voice as he looked at his sleeping child with a smile on his face, while he didn''t get the chance to train, he was satisfied knowing that his son could now protect himself.


    The scene here soon transitioned into the dark of night as today''s training had finally ended for little Grevlin.

 Chapter 24: A Dangerous Child, The Eye in the Distance

    Chapter 24: A Dangerous Child, The Eye in the Distance


    As Marius brought home the exhausted Grevlin, he noticed that Ria was up ying with Little Rose, who seemed filled with an abundance of energy.


    "Mama, I want up-up!" Little Rose said cutely, her tiny little arms stretched towards Ria''s face.


    "Hehe, as my little Rosey wishes," Ria replied lovingly as she picked her up and tossed her up and down, catching her easily as she fell back down.


    Little Rose gave off a series ofughter as her mother yed with her, not noticing her father''s arrival.


    Marius gave Ria a look as even though he didn''t point it out, he had known that she was watching from nearby as he trained Grevlin.


    As if she knew he noticed, Ria gave him a cheeky wink causing him to scratch the back of his head, as she saw his appearance, she giggled before setting her sights onto Grevlin and speaking, "Our little Grev-Grev is beginning to awaken, but it will still take a little longer for it toe in full effect."


    Marius also nodded at her words; he smiled while taking a seat with Grevlin in his arms before saying, "Yes, he did pretty good today, even I didn''t have that kind of calm as a child. I had to undergo cruel torture and conditioning for a good while before I had adapted to that kind of lifestyle..."


    As Marius said this, he began to recall some dark memories and pictures of his early childhood from the unusual orphanage that had turned out to be an assassin training camp.


    Ria could sense his negative emotions; she naturally could sense that he recalled terrible things, she stared at him and spoke, "Come now dear, it''s best not to wallow over such things, you have me and our two little treasures now."


    Marius also nodded and smiled as he felt much better, he looked at Ria and saw that Little Rose wasughing as Ria drowned her with tickles.


    He shook his head and stood up and spoke, "I''m going to go clean up with Grevlin,"


    Ria gave him a wink with a different meaning, Marius naturally knew what it meant as he hurriedly left the room while rubbing his palms together, a happy smile on his face.


    At this time, Little Rose had finally gotten a break from her mother who was tickling her, she took a huff and pointed at Ria while speaking in a cute tone, "Mother... mother has bullied me!"


    Ria didn''t seem to mind the usation, she poked her little tummy and spoke, "Whose my cute little Rosey?"


    Little Rose seemed to be conflicted; she didn''t know if she should continue to be angry or happy, after a cute little turmoil. She jumped from the ground into Ria''s bosom as she spoke happily, "I am!"


    Ria smiled as she rubbed her and spoke, "Come, let''s go for a walk and y that game again, after ying that game, we''ll get some sleep."


    Little Rose made a somewhat naive look as she replied, "Okway."


    Ria had a strange and mysterious expression; her eyes glowed in ming lights that sent out a series of purple mes that consumed both her and her daughter. In merely a few moments, they vanished from the room, leaving behind the seemingly ordinary scene.


    The Mountain Ax Senior sat down in his study, gazing at a few stacks of paper, he rubbed his temples as if exhausted before staring at a picture frame.


    There, he saw an old photo of a faded image, but if one peered at it more carefully, they would see the indistinct picture of a gorgeous woman with two horns.


    "Aya..." The Mountain Ax Senor said with a slightly mncholic look on his face; he was about to fall into his memories. But suddenly, he shifted his eyes towards the direction of the guest room as he made a pensive expression.


    ''She''s headed out again, I see, off to train that child I suppose, truly a miraculous set of Half Hellian children. It truly does makes me wonder, am I doing the right thing?'' The Mountain Ax Senior thought with a perplexed look on his face as if recalling a series of painful events. Eventually, his eyes that stared at the picture frame hardened as if he made up his mind.


    "Right and wrong is defined by perspective... isn''t that right, Aya?" After saying this, the Mountain Ax Senor ced down the stacks of paper and had started to prepare a few objects.


    The scene here now of a different vibe as the sounds of rustling and a pen scribbling on paper sounded throughout the study.


    ***


    In the depths of the wilderness of the unusual mountain ranges outskirts, Ria had appeared out a ball of purple mes as she held onto Little Rose in her hands.


    Little Rose looked around at the night scene in excitement rather than fear, for rather than seeing a pure sight of darkness, her eyes view the night much differently.


    A series of colorful lights covered the forests, as the trees and leaves which were shrouded in darkness glowed in a myriad of hues.


    A few tiny critters that floated about in the darkness shone in a pale orangish light as they flew about the skies, leaving behind magical specks of dust that scattered with the wind.


    "So prwetty!" Little Rose said in joy as she enjoyed this scene very much, far more so that the typical night scene at earth.


    Ria smiled and rubbed her daughter''s head as she spoke, "Alright, my sweet little one, do you remember what mother told you?"


    Little Rose made a thoughtful expression before she replied, "Mm, yes mama!"


    After hearing her daughter''s words, Ria then gently put down Little Rose and took a few steps back, Little Rose once ced onto the ground wasn''t scared, she seemed no different from a curious toddler that was ready to explore the unknown.


    Suddenly, Little Rose''s eyes glowed in bright purple lights as the scene before her changed, the lights in the forest dimmed as she began to see a few peculiar beasts.


    Each of varying sizes and different colors, the weakest of these beasts were the size of rabbits with a green outline, but one of these beasts was evenrger than Ria, looking no different from a giant boar with burning horns.


    It glowed with a bright orange hue, nearing the color of red that signified its level of threat to Little Rose, as if it sensed the strangeness in their direction, this creature rapidly charged over.


    "Mama! I fwound a Bwig Pwig!" Little Rose said excitedly.


    Ria smiled and replied, "That''s my girl; remember to do the next thing."


    "Mm!" Little Rose uttered with an excited tone of voice.


    Moments after, the enemy had arrived, with a loud bang, a stone blew up as the boar jumped from behind it andnded in the open field.


    ze! A series of fire scattered around it before gathering toward its upraised horns, as if trying to add further to the dramatic entrance, the boar''s eyes shone in a murderous light as it cried out with a great roar, "Grooooaaaarrrrr!"


    This creature was known as the Burning Horn Boar, a fierce G Rank beast by nature, known for its brutality amongst even its kin.


    As if unphased by its roar, Little Rose looked at it and spoke while pointing her little fingers, "Bwad Piggy, I must pwunish!"


    The Burning Horn Boar was already provoked by her presence, but when it saw her point her tiny little arms towards it; it roared as it stomped the ground and dashed towards her, prepared to tackle her.


    In any world, this scene would spark a mightymotion to any, as no living person would dare to subject a child to such a scene. However, this was not an ordinary child.


    Little Rose seemed who be ready, a small cluster of purple mes gathered over her palms that was pointed towards the Burning Horn Boar.


    As if it sensed an immense danger, the Burning Horn Boar halted its charge in horror, causing its legs to slide with a deep impression on the earth. However, before it could even escape, its end had already arrived.


    "Bwad Pwiggy! Buuurrnnnn!" Little Rose said in an adorable tone, but sadly, the result was far from the cute and sweet battle cry.


    A big st of purple mes fired from her palms before crashing into the trembling Burning Horn Boar, in moments, this fire attribute beast was burnt to cinders leaving behind not even a trace of its ashes.


    Little Rose pped her hands at this scene, the lights from the purple mes illuminating her tiny figure as she spoke, "Mama-Mama! I dwid it! I lweveled up!"


    Ria made a loving look as she rubbed her head and spoke, "That''s my girl,e now, tonight''s training is over, let''s head back now,"


    Little Rose nodded as her eyes turned droopy, she lifted her tiny arms and spoke in a weak voice, "Mama, I''m slweepy..."


    Ria picked her up and held her in a gentle hold before snapping her fingers, a cluster of purple mes burnt around them before fading, as they once again vanished from this region, bringing an end to tonight''s adventures.


    ****


    Far away from the isted mountain region, within an unusualnd, one with dark red skies and ck thunder clouds that scattered with red lightning bolts, there was a massive pce of darkness.


    At the summits of this massive pce with sharp edges, one that seemed no different from those sinister-looking castles shown in fantasy stories. One would notice a giant eye; it stared towards the distance as if it were seeking something, always on constant watch.


    Suddenly, this eye shifted towards a particr location; it narrowed as a voice sounded across the heavens, "Hmm... it is there, in that zone, I can sense it, the power of our blood..."


    After the voice said this, an indistinct figure with two horns appeared out of nothingness, floating in the air beside the giant eye. It looked at the person and noticed that he was simrly facing that direction with aplicated look.


    After a moment of silence, the eye then spoke again, "Gizelmon... since you''ve arrived, I shall leave it to you... I trust that you know what will happen should you fail to aplish this task?"


    Gizelmon''s indirect body began to fade as he stared at the giant eye, he sighed before he spoke with a bow, "I understand... as the ancient one wishes, I shall not fail you..."


    Following those words, Gizelmon''s body had vanished into nothingness. The giant eye then stared out into the distance once more, as if piercing through the world...

 Chapter 25: The Dreadful Tyrant Frost Wyrm, Ranking Up

    Chapter 25: The Dreadful Tyrant Frost Wyrm, Ranking Up


    Time flew by quickly, and it had already been over three weeks since Marius and his family had arrived in this strange new world. Their training in the mountain range had proven to be quite fruitful as everyone had achieved an absurd skill level.


    Currently, a battle was currently urring somewhere within the mountain''s outskirts, at the very dividing chasm that leads to its middle sectors.


    Bang! With a loud boom, a cluster of boulders rained down from the summits of this very chasm''s walls as a creature that was no less than a few dozen meters long and roughly four to five meters wide was flung by a man towards it.


    Looking at the body of this monster left an impression in high walls of the hundreds of meter chasm. One notice that it was a snake-like beast with scaly dark purple skin along with blue colored ice crystals embedded into its reptile-like head, running from the back of its neck and across its spine through its entire body.


    This beast was a well-known creature in thends of Valoria, a mystic beast that could cause rm to anynds across the vast continent, one known as the Tyrant Frost Wyrm.


    ____


    [Tyrant Frost Wyrm]


    [Race: Mystic Beast]


    [Level: 30]


    [Stamina: F]


    [Strength: D]


    [Agility: E]


    [Dexterity: F]


    [Mystic Ice Power: D]


    [Abilities:]


    ...


    [Frost Beam - Lvl Max]


    [ss: Rank 3 Skill]


    [Description: The ability to fire a ray of ice energies that can freeze any foe in its path, frost will afflict  Three Star''s worth of damage to Mystic Ice Power.]


    ...


    [Flight - Lvl Max]


    [ss: Rank-less Skill]


    [Description: The ability to soar across the sky.]


    ____


    Raooooor! The Tyrant Frost Wyrm had only just worked loose from its crater and lifted its head before roaring towards the heavens, its icy aura rising by more than twofold due to its immense rage when it red at the human that had just tossed it.


    Its aura was so dominating that the surroundings became influenced, taking on an icy hue as if the world was only moments from undergoing winter.


    Marius who stood on top of a protruding rock which came from out of the chasm''s walls, gazed at the massive Tyrant Frost Wyrm that flew above him with a cold look in his eyes as he smirked, he hoisted his battle-ax, pointing it towards it as he provoked, "Is that your best shot, Little Ice Worm? I''m disappointed in you..."


    The Tyrant Frost Wyrm grew incensed, being a Superior ss Mystical Beast. It was naturally able to understand humannguage clearly, as such, now that it was likened to amon worm, its rage was far beyond the norm.


    Roar! With another terrifying roar, its body erupted with its icy mystic power, freezing more than a hundred meters around its body in merely a few seconds. Its eyes glowed in bright blue lights as it opened its mouth and began to conjure a ball of icy energies.


    ''The buff for this skill isn''t a joke, but thankfully I''vee to find out that my Strengthen All skill is the most broken buff skill of all...'' Marius thought with a smirk on his face, he didn''t even hesitate as he saw its actions. He acted by jumping from his previous location, moving across the air like a blurry bullet.


    The Tyrant Frost Wyrm had a cruel look in its glowing blue eyes, as its attack charged up in full it fired the energies immediately, sending a bright beam of ice energies towards Marius.


    "Hmph! Not today! Strengthen All: Twisting Gale Swing!" Marius shouted as his body spun in the air with his battle-ax held firmly.


    A bright glow of white Mystic Power conjured around his battle-ax as he chopped it towards the Frost Beam''s direction, sending a twisting gust far beyond the usual standard of sheering winds towards the beam at high speeds.


    The cyclone only needed an instant before it crashed with the beam, disrupting its energies by creating a hurricane of ice before it dispersed into the air.


    After the cyclone vanished, the remaining energies from the Frost Beam had already veered off course, firing down towards the chasm''s unknown depths as a frigid wind blew from below.


    The Tyrant Frost Wyrm was stunned at this scene as it would have never expected for its innate attack to lose effect. If it were any other warrior of its ss, they and the rest of the hundred-meter range would have been frozen stiff.


    Nevertheless, despite its confusion, it was an experienced and intelligent creature, it knew that for a man to perform such a feat, then the man in question would most definitely not be an easy foe. It prepared to leave before it suffered any more losses, but sadly, Marius was one step ahead of it.


    When Marius saw the Tyrant Frost Wyrm turned around as it ascended towards the sky, he stretched one of his arms forward and made a gripping motion as he shouted, "You won''t escape so easily, Strengthen All: Aerial Submission Palms!"


    Following Marius''s words, a semi-transparent palm formed around the Tyrant Frost Wyrm''s body, binding its movements as it now became filled with looks of rm.


    The palm''s binding force hindered it to such an extent that even with its D category strength, it was unable to work loose. It lifted its head and roared towards Marius who was still soaring towards it as it prepared to fire another Frost Beam. However, its attempt was already a futile one.


    Swoosh! Marius had appeared directly in front of the Tyrant Frost Wyrm''s body; he then gripped the battle-ax with both arms as he shouted, "Strengthen All: Body!"


    Following this, his muscles swelled as his entire body became even more sturdy and powerful, he then swung the battle-ax down with full force towards the Tyrant Frost Wyrm''s head while invoking his other skill, "Cleaving Earth Smasher!"


    For some reason, the instant Marius said Strengthen All, its body''s binding force had abruptly vanished. The Tyrant Frost Wyrm wanted to make the change to escape, but sadly, Marius''s ax had already smashed into its head.


    With a loud boom and the sound of flesh being chopped into, a gush of blood spewed across the sky, Marius''s ax had split its head into two, the Tyrant Frost Wyrm then wailed in a pitiful cry before it lost all life and its giant corpse started to fall from the sky.


    ____


    Ding!


    [You''ve defeated a Tyrant Frost Wyrm! A vast amount of the creature''s life force is being converted into EXP.]


    ____


    Marius, who was now airborne, smirked as he saw those details, his body soon started falling into the chasm, but he merely reached his hand to the side and used his Aerial Submission Palms to conjure an arm that pulled him towards the surface.


    Marius thennded on the ground with a flip as he wiped the sweat from his face. He then spoke with a pleased expression, "Whew, that should be enough, with this I should finally be able to advance into Rank E. It took me 15 days for my body to adapt to the energies after myst rank up, then I had to do that Advancement Test. I suppose after leveling this time; then I''ll need one month to adapt before doing the next test..."


    After finishing his words, Marius nced around at the brutal but mystical mountain areas, the verdant bushes, and lush fields, along with plentiful energy and colorful nts painting the scenery before his eyes.


    He sighed while thinking, ''It''s a pity that we have to leave here tomorrow and truly start our life in this world. If we could have stayed a little longer then my strength could have grown further. Oh well, I can''t keep Little Grevlin and Rose in this mountain for too long, that is not good for their growth. Plus, with my current strength, we should be fine as long as I don''t offend any knights of that dynasty, Grevlin can also take care of himself and Rose to a decent degree by now...''


    After wrapping up his thoughts, Marius prepared to head towards his family''s direction, but right at this time, a notification sounded.


    ____


    [You have leveled up!]


    Ding!


    [Congrattions! As you have reached Level 20, your innate talent has allowed all stats to increase by  One Star.]


    Ding!


    [Congrattions! As one or more core offensive attributes have advanced to the E category, your Battle Rank has achieved E Rank.]


    ____


    Marius smiled at this as he could feel the surging power in his body, he gripped his fists feeling even more confidence as he left this area, heading towards his family...


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 26: The Eve Before Departure

    Chapter 26: The Eve Before Departure


    Marius and the Tyrant Frost Wyrm battle wasn''t a long one, as the day was still at its peak. While he traveled through the mystical woods, he passed along the coarse soil and rich grasses that lined a path towards the exterior of this mountain''s boundary to the Middle Sections.


    Marius picked up a few of their favorite fruits on his way back; he didn''t know if any of these strange fruits will even be in the markets. As such, he decided to stock up on as much as he could, whistling one of his all-time favorite songs during his younger years.


    ? "Wee to the wild, no heroes and viins! Wee to the war we''ve only begun, so pick up your weapon and face it... there''s blood on the crown go and take it..."


    Marius hummed as he strolled about the mountain path; soon, he arrived at a strange open field within the outskirts. There, a small tent was resting in the open with a beauty of peerless grace; her long green hair fluttered with the soft wind as did the corners of her simple dress.


    She held onto the idle figure of an adorable little battle girl ying with two simrly small tigers in joy.


    "Go Whittle White, jump!" Little Rose said as she urged the small white tiger to jump over the other.


    At this time, the tiger named Little White that had grown a little more significant during the passage of a month showed a capability understanding of the humanmand. It rose to its feet and made a rapid dash before pressing its hinds against the floor and jumping over the head of Little ck.


    When it fell on the ground, it stumbled a bit before rolling, looking a bit clumsy, but Little Rose didn''t seem to care for its distress; she merely pped her hands excitedly as she spoke, "Yay-yay! Whittle White is twalented!"


    As Ria watched her daughter y, she had a warm smile on her face as she rubbed her little head, her fingers ran across her tiny horns that were hidden below her bangs.


    As if affected by this, Little Rose closed her eyes before curling her body in her mother''s embrace as she speaks with a voice of contentment, "Comfy..."


    Ria had a happy look on her face, but at this time, she seemed to notice that Marius had arrived, she gave him a look and spoke, "Oh, honey, you''re finally back from all that training, hmm... eh?"


    Ria had started to greet her husband, but as if she smelled something, her eyes lit up as she spoke out loud, "Honey you''ve brought us Fire Cherries!"


    As if Little Rose smelled it, her entire mood changed from what offort to one of excitement. She only now noticed that her father had arrived and had arge bag of cherries with other extremely tasty fruits.


    "Dadda-dadda! I want chwerry!" Little Rose said as she broke out from Ria''s embrace and stormed towards Marius.


    Ria looked at this with aplex gaze as she wanted to be the first to get some, but who was a mother toplete with her daughter.


    Marius chuckled as he saw both of their reactions he spoke, "My little darling don''t be like that, look there''s plenty to go around, wait until your brother gets back then we can all eat, we''ll also need to save some for our trip."


    Little Rose was a smart little child, she looked up at her father''s face with an innocent expression, herrge watery and rounded eyes having a tinge of sadness as she gripped his trousers with her tiny fingers and spoke, "Okway..."


    Marius felt a tug in his heart as he saw this, he didn''t have the strength of will to resist such cuteness, but he bit his lips and held on to his decision.


    "That''s my good girl,e let''s rest up," Marius said as he stooped down and used one arm to pick up Little Rose, after cing her on his shoulder he walked towards Ria before sitting himself by her side.


    Ria ced her head onto the Marius''s shoulder with a content smile as she spoke, "I''ll miss this ce..."


    Marius gave her a look and spoke, "Me too..."


    The two remained silent staring at the surroundings before they started to chat about a variety of things, the day slowly pressed onwards, and they had both spoken until even Little Rose started to show signs of falling asleep arms.


    Marius looked at this and ced her in a morefortable position. Yet, it was at this moment, Ria''s eyes shed with a strange light as her arm that was ced behind him rapidly moved, leaving a plume of ck smoke as it somehow appeared within the basket.


    "Hmph! I saw thating from a mile away," Marius said with a snort as he rapidly reacted, tugging a string that was attached to it, the basket then flew over to his legs were he mped it and sealed it away.


    Ria showed an angry look as she red at Marius, she lifted her head from his shoulder andined, "Hey, it''s only one, why are you acting like I''m trying to take the basket?"


    Marius gave her a look and replied, "Because that''s exactly what you''ll do, every time we did this and I consented, one became two, and two became four. I won''t fall for that trick again!"


    "You... humph! Fine, be that way, I''ll simply act in kind..." Ria said with a sinister smile on her face, she picked up Little Rose from his embrace as her body released a clump of purple mes that zed around their bodies before they vanished.


    Marius felt a bit uneasy due to those words, he hesitated wondering if he did the right thing just now. However, before he could even finish those thoughts, a new change urred.


    With a swooshing sound, a boy suddenly appeared from the nearby shrubs, he carried within his arm a strange-looking rabbit with zing ears, struggling to break free from his grasp.


    "Father look, I found a strange fire breathing rodent," Grevlin said in excitement as he looked at his father while holding it out towards him.


    ____


    [Fire Breath Rabbit]


    [Race: Mystic Beast]


    [Level: 10]


    [Stamina: G]


    [Strength: G]


    [Agility: F]


    [Dexterity: G]


    [Mystic Power: F]


    [Abilities:]


    [Fire Breath - Max]


    ____


    Marius nced at the stats of the Fire Breath Rabbit before he nodded with pride, through his guidance Grevlin had long since arrived at Level 10, thus enhancing his survival capabilities, even his manner had undergone a slight transformation.


    "That''s my son, now kill it and give it to your mother once we head back, we will be eating it for dinner," Marius said in a slightly warm tone.


    "Yes father!" Grevlin replied with joy, he always liked being praised by his dad and proceeded to kill the rabbit immediately.


    His shadows danced as a slender hand shrouded by darkness emerged with a dagger, it slicked apart the neck of the struggling rabbit before fading into the shadows once more.


    Grevlin then drained the blood with a calm expression before he cleaned it up and ced it into a container.


    Marius then looked at him before shifting his eyes onto therge stone gate portal that lead to the Mountain Ax Senior''s residence. He then spoke while walking towards it with firm steps, "Let''s go."


    Grevlin wasted no time and followed behind his father, the two figures faded into the lights as the door away crumpled and vanished into the earth.

 Chapter 27: The Final Day, Leaving the Mountains

    Chapter 27: The Final Day, Leaving the Mountains


    The day was still in full splendor, and the picture around the house of wood and grass remained the same as always. Upon exiting the stone gate with Grevlin, Marius looked at the colorful grasses before shifting their sights towards the side of the house.


    There, the Mountain Ax Senior, who would usually be chopping logs, stood with his arms crossed behind his back nearby the riverside. His manner now seemed a bit lost as he stared at theke in silence.


    Marius thought for a bit before he looked at Grevlin and pointed towards the house.


    "Son, go and check for your mother; she should be preparing lunch anytime now; we''ll also be leaving in a bit."


    "Okay, father."


    After answering, Grevlin hurried towards the wooden house, leaving behind Marius, who started to approach the Mountain Ax Senior.


    The river''s rustling sound calmed his spirit as he stood by the old man''s side for a little over a minute, the two remaining silent as if they didn''t need words. Soon though, the Mountain Ax Senior shifted his eyes towards Marius, staring at him deeply with a smile at the corners of his mouth.


    "You''ve grown quite strong during this short month; I truly must admit that I admire you... or rather, your entire family."


    "Senior, your words are far too kind; we have yet to even offer our thanks for"


    "Haha, no need, an old bag like me, I do not need such things; all I desire I''ve already experienced."


    Though the Mountain Ax Senior said thosest bits of words, Marius, who keenly stared at him, noticed his eyes grew a bit distant as he stared at the mountain ranges.


    ''I guess I''ll have to keep it at heart.''


    Marius thought before he gave him a polite bow; the Mountain Ax Senior looked at him again before he turned and walked towards the table.


    "Come now, I believe it won''t take long for that charming wife of yours to finish that meal, we''ll have onest meal before I deliver you all to the empire''s core domain."


    "We''ll be counting on you," Marius replied as he stared at his back before he followed.


    It didn''t take long for time to pass as everyone gathered around the outdoor wooden table; they soon started to eat today''s lunch as a lively atmosphere ofughter sounded throughout the afternoon.


    By now, the evening had caught up with them; the Mountain Ax Senior then nced at Marius and Ria before eying the cute and adorable little Rose who was now embraced in Ria''s arm''s while Grevlin sat and petted the two tiger cubs.


    Both Marius and Ria looked at each other before they held each other''s arms and faced the Mountain Ax Senior once again.


    Finally, the Mountain Ax Senior made a gentle look as he ced four golden bracelets with runic markings onto the table.


    He then spoke, "Before you, are how you will each be able to blend into the Grand Alvaria Dynasty. These bracelets are known as Aura Disruption Bracelets. Embedded within them is a unique magic diagram; as such, it can not only fake the crest of an Artiman, but also suppress the diabolical mystic power of Hellians. With this, no one under my rank will sense your true origin, and even those at my level will find it hard to tell you apart. Hence, the only thing you''ll both need to look out for is the horns of you mother and child, along with those arms of Grevlin."


    When Marius and Ria heard those words, their eyes lit up as they didn''t think such a treasure exists; though Ria had her Hellian Illusory abilities, they weren''t able to bypass all senses.


    ''Such an amazing treasure,'' Ria thought to herself as she stared at the bracelets on the table with wonderment in her eyes.


    "Incredible, Senior, I must thank you once again for your trouble," Marius said with a grateful look.


    "Enough about that, why don''t you hurry and try it on? I''d like to know if it''s at least working as it should before you guys leave." The Mountain Ax Senior.


    "As you wish." Marius didn''t hold on ceremony; he picked them up and handed them over to the rest of the family before putting it on his wrist.


    Once on his wrist, the runic markings began to glow in bright blue lights, but this onlysted for a few seconds before fading away.


    Momentster, Marius''s body then began to emit a strange kind of energy, one that he couldn''t even notice himself. Still, in the Mountain Ax Senior''s eyes, he could see a mist of golden energy that emanated from his being.


    He smiled in satisfaction as he turned his sights onto Ria, Little Rose and Grevlin, noticing that the ck sinister-looking auras that coated their bodies faded into a simr energy like that of Marius.


    "Excellent, it''s working far better than I''d anticipated," The Mountain Ax Senior said with a smile.


    "Huh? I still don''t feel anything," Marius said with a puzzled look as he looked at the bracelet on his wrist.


    The Mountain Ax Senior seemed to have expected this; he tossed a book to Marius and spoke, "Figured as much, that''s why I wrote that custom made skill recently. It took a little more time than I''d imagine, but with that, you should be able to replicate the senses of a true Artiman."


    Marius nced at the book causing its details to appear before his eyes.


    ____


    [Sense - Custom Mystical Art]


    [Description - Allows the user to sense all different lifeforms in Valoria, amount varies by personal power and the quality of mystical power used.]


    ____


    ''This... although I can rely on my instinct to sense creatures, this skill is even handier, I truly don''t know how to thank him for this one,'' Marius thought as he looked at the old man with another look of gratitude, but he didn''t say thanks as he focused on learning the skill.


    After a few seconds, Marius had quickly learned the skill and understood how it worked. His eyes shed in golden light as he invoked the skill and noticed that the world around him changed; he could see many auras, including the golden aura that now covered his family.


    Other than seeing this energy, Marius also felt a strange connection to it, as if they were part of the same roots.


    ''So this is what he meant by he could easily infer that I am not a part of his kind, if there were no feeling of connection, it would be like looking at a stranger on earth...'' Marius thought with an intrigued expression.


    The Mountain Ax Senior knew that Marius had already learned the skill; he wasn''t too surprised as that was an Outsider''s learning speed.


    Much different from Marius; however, Ria, Little Rose, and Grevlin were keenly able to sense their changes, causing them to react differently.


    "Wow! Dadda is glowing yellow!" Little Rose said as she pointed at Marius with excitement, her small mouth opened wide just like her big innocent eyes.


    "Hehe, well, he certainly is, my adorable Little Rose," Ria said with a smile as she yed with her daughter''s small arms while looking at Marius.


    Grevlin seemed to be interested in the new feeling he was having; he could still sense that normal feeling from his arms, but a slightly ufortable power only shrouded it.


    After adjusting themselves to their changes, everyone grew quiet as they knew that the time had finally arrived.


    The Mountain Ax Senior rose from his seat and stood in the open; Marius nced at everyone in his family and spoke, "It''s time to go."


    Ria nodded as she lifted Little Rose, who looked around curiously, not knowing what was happening as she asked, Mama, where are we gwoing?"


    Ria replied, "A new home."


    Little Rose had curious eyes as she asked, "A new home? With bwig house?"


    Ria looked at Marius, who chuckled; Ria rubbed her head and answered, "It might not as big like those we are used to seeing, but it will be afy house."


    "I likefy," Little Rose said with a cheeky smile as she buried her head in her mother''s bosom, causing Ria to smile.


    Grevlin walked up to Marius''s side; it seemed that he didn''t want to stay too far away from his father, mostly since they were about to enter unknown territories.


    "I assume that you''re all ready?" The Mountain Ax Senior asked.


    "We are," Marius replied in ce of everyone else.


    The Mountain Ax Senior then nodded as he pped his hands and ced his glowing palms onto the earth as he shouted, "Open!"


    The earth shook with a rumbling sound, and a new stone gate with a glowing portal had appeared from the ground.


    Marius and his family looked at this with fascinating expressions, as even Ria was a bit curious about thends they were about to encroach upon.


    The Mountain Ax Senior, who had only now returned to normal posture, tossed an envelope to Marius, who caught it and looked at him in surprise.


    "That is a letter to a friend of mine, if you ever venture to the capital of the Grand Alvaria Dynasty, then take it to him... as for his name, he''s known as Helmstine. Do take care now, I pray that you all find happiness on your journey..." The Mountain Ax Senior said once more with a gentle look in his eyes.


    Marius and Ria felt warm by his gesture again, but they knew he didn''t like being thanked; they nodded their heads and held onto the children and walked into the portal.


    However, before they all vanished, Marius''s words sounded from behind it, "Thanks for everything."


    As hisst words sounded, the world soon transformed as they all faded into the portal. The stone gate shortly after crumbled into dust as the Mountain Ax Senior sighed before muttering, "I truly do hope you''ll have a better life, even more so than I did..."


    Following his words, the Mountain Ax Senior''s eyes turned cold as he gazed into the sky as if he could sense something peering at him from the extreme distances. He then muttered once more, ''But, it would seem that your hurdles will be far greater than even my own''


    He slowly walked towards the ax that was plunged into the tree stump and took out a filing tool, not long after only the sounds of the ax being sharpened resounded as a strange, dark mood filled the entirety of this mystical mountain range...

 Chapter 28: A Century Old Grudge

    Chapter 28: A Century Old Grudge


    An unknown amount of time had passed since Marius and his family had left the mountain range, the evening finally drawing to its close as the sky had a tinge of blood red. A shrill wind blew across the open field, whose rustling sounds from the nearby shrubbery and flowingke could not soothe the dark ambiance.


    Suddenly, a few sparks shed as the sound of an ax being sharpened hade to an end. The silence carrying within it an oppressiveness brought about by the change of the mood.


    The Mountain Ax Senior now sat with his back facing the river, his muscr arms holding only the handle of his divine-like ax whose edge shimmered with baleful lights.


    After seeing that it was to his liking, he fixed his attire in sitting posture, fitting on a sleeveless dark coat as his eyes had a sharp glint.


    ''You''ve already arrived, why bother to shroud your presence, Hellian?" The Mountain Ax Senior said in a calm tone.


    As if the wind heard him, a light gust blew, sending a series of leaves around the field before a towering two-horned shadow appeared, as if it was there from the beginning.


    Looking at this shadow, one would notice that it stretched from one end of the field towards the setting sun''s direction, as if it bordered on the edge of twilight.


    A humanoid middle-aged man with two-horns, a square-shaped face, long purple hair, cold looking eyes, and a stubble of beard stood at the shadow''s edge. His figure shrouded by a sinister-looking robe with spiky shoulder pads that fluttered in the warm evening winds.


    "Huhuhu... Brayhard, it has been such a long time, and my, how the tables have turned since ourst meeting. Time truly has no care to its creatures," The man said with a cruel smile.


    Brayhard looked at the Hellian before him in with a look of shock, before it turned into rage, his body started to glow in an earthen light as his grip around his ax hard.


    With a rumble, the world shook, as if the entire mountain range was about to shatter into fragments. However, as if Brayhard remembered something, the figure of a horned beauty shed before his eyes, causing him to grit his teeth and calm down.


    The man snickered at this but said nothing; after a while, Brayhard calmed himself to a point where he could stare directly at the man.


    "I should have figured it was you... Gizelmon, I knew that I had smelt a familiar blood upon that child, and based on what I''ve learned, only you would be so foolish, so ruthless to even y"


    "Enough!" Gizelmon said, cutting him off from his words, his previous manner of calmness nowhere to be seen as if Brayhard''s words had touched his bottom line.


    Soon, a series of sinister diagrams formed around Brayhard, each connected to a diabolical mystical power. One that was capable of annihting not only this sector but all things within the entire mountain range.


    "Tch, how typical? Just likest time, you can''t handle the truth so you can only resort to unnecessary means," Brayhard said with a look of mock as he stared at Gizelmon.


    Gizelmon seemed to have finally shrugged off the previous mood; his manner returned to normal as he smiled, looking at his old foe.


    "Brayhard... you truly were my greatest adversary, even now you can so easily bring out my consciously suppressed wrath, huhu... but no more, I''m not here to y word games, you should already know why I''vee."


    As Gizelmon said those words, his eyes had a ray of coldness as if he wouldn''t take nothing for an answer.


    Brayhard chuckled as he looked at his ax before staring at Gizelmon. He then replied, "I''m sorry old pal, but I''ve aged. How can an old man like me even have a good memory?"


    Gizelmon frowned as he heard Brayhard''s words; the ground below his feet turned dark as within an instant, the entire field had transformed into a field of dried up grass. A sinister red mystical power conjured around his body as his hair swayed more fiercely while his eyes glowed.


    "I will ask you onest time! WHERE ARE THE SUMMONS?" Gizelmon shouted in a roar, his voice echoing across the mystical mountain range that rumbled due to his power.


    Brayhard smiled and replied calmly, "Nope, I can''t remember; my mind isn''t as it used to be."


    "You... damn!" Gizelmon''s anger reached its peak; his very shout caused nearby mountains to explode into rubble, raining rocks across the entire domain.


    As if he realized his mistake, he took a deep breath and calmed down; Gizelmon soon gave Brayhard aplex look as he spoke, "Are you truly trying to interfere in the outside matters once again?"


    Brayhard shook his head and sighed; he stared towards the distance as if catching onto a long-forgotten memory.


    Gizelmon did nothing; though they were mortal enemies of the past, they still had the decency not to pull off unnecessary tactics during the conversation.


    After a good while, Brayhard turned his gaze back to him and stood up from his sitting posture; Gizelmon narrowed his eyes as he could tell his decision based on his minor action.


    "I would like to stay out of it forever, your race... or rather, all races had more than taken enough from me, I''d rather stay in this mountain and live my days until my final disaster, but sadly, because of your foolish and greedy desire. I can''t allow myself to sit back idly."


    As Brayhard spoke those words, his grip on his battle-ax grew even firmer as he held it at an angle, posing himself for battle as his mountain robes fluttered softly in the winds.


    Gizelmon sighed at this, but that soon faded as his manner grew cold once again. He stood tall as if merging with the shadows that slowly grew longer as the sun fell.


    "Greed and desire is the essences of our kind, the Six Emotions, and willingness to indulge oneself to its amour is second nature. You Artimans will ever understand the ways of our kind... all Hellians are driven by desire," Gizelmon said as he slowly raised his arms, conjuring two ming spears of dark purple mes.


    Brayhard scoffed at his words, "Is that so? Then how can you exin her?"


    Gizelmon''s eyes shed at those words, but as if he grew angered, his face turned savage as he yelled, "SHE IS NONE OF YOUR CONCERN! She''s only a failure of our race meant solely to be discarded."


    As if Brayhard''s reverse scale was touched, his eyes glowed in a fierce light as he brandished his battle-ax and spoke, "Hmph! Whether or not she was a failure was not for you, nor anyone else to decide! You can forget about leaving today; I will make sure to carve my resolve onto your flesh!"


    With a loud bang, Brayhard''s earthen colored mystical power erupted in full, shaking the entire mountain range as the area for unknown distances became enveloped by his energy.


    Gizelmon, who stood at this center of this all-consuming power, frowned as his body formed a purple barrier that warded off its effects. He clicked his teeth while thinking, ''How troublesome, it seems that I won''t be able to move for a while, looks like I''ll have to leave it to those children...''


    Following those thoughts, Gizelmon''s eyes shed in red lights, sending a ripple across an unknown distance before returned normal.


    Brayhard noticed this but didn''t do anything; he merely stared at Gizelmon locking down the mountain with a series of barriers formed by his energy as he thought to himself.


    ''It won''t be easy; he''s one of the Three Hellian King''s after all. However, I can only do my best to keep him at bay for as long as I can; there shouldn''t have been many who could cross over from the Hellshire, and sending a single Hellian King with a major toon would have been the most they could send after arge sacrifice.''


    Following those thoughts, Brayhard''s eyes shifted towards the side, gazing at a distantwork of mountains that led towards the unknown as he muttered softly, "Take care of yourselves, the rest of your journey for you to decide."


    The moment Brayhard said those words, a towering power rose from Gizelmon''s direction as a shocking amount of purple mes enveloped a majority of Brayhard''s sight.


    Looking behind it, one would see the figure of a demon-like entity garbed in sinister armor and a flowing cape, holding two divine spears that pointed towards his direction.


    The sun soon after set, as two rivals of old, prepared to fight what might be their decisive battle, bringing an end to a century-old grudge, and the start of a shocking age...

 Chapter 29: A Stormy Night

    Chapter 29: A Stormy Night


    This night was a dark one, as the dismal sounds of a heavy rain showered thends with its silvery-blue droplets. If one looked at the sky, they would notice that the colorful stars ands which loomed above the world were now obscured by a myriad of dark thunderous clouds that shrouded the heavens.


    Suddenly, a loud rumble of thunder echoed as a sh of colorful lightning flickered about the sky soon after. This bolt of lightning showed a route of soil, grass, and stone that lined a path towards a distant town with high walls. However, as it faded, a new light source seemed to have taken its ce.


    A carriage with tworgenterns hoisted on its roof slowly made its way through these soils, its wheels making creaking noises as it shook every step taken by its beasts around the regions.


    Looking at the creatures, one would notice that they weren''t horses, but two centaur-like beings, garbed in armor with weapons in hand as they towed the carriage along. These beings were Centuarians, amon race among the many within this world, forced into service by Artimans.


    There were no such things as coachmen, as this was a particr type of transportation service that few could ever afford, the Centuarian Coach Firm''s very service.


    A symbol of a four-legged horse with a man''s body was embellished into therge coach''s side and a crest from some unknown family. A few lights wereing from its interior, as shown by its loosely cracked windows.


    Suddenly, a pair of innocent-looking eyes stared out at the harsh rain through the open windows'' cracks. They looked around with a hint of fear.


    Peering through the windows, one would notice that the owners of these eyes were none other than a ten-year-old boy with short blond hair, blue eyes, and a small round nose, garbed in fancy clothing. He sat on top of a luxurious cushion that added a great deal offort in this kind of carriage.


    "Jae, what''s got you so worked out my boy? Afraid of a little thunder?" A loud voice said from within the carriage.


    Following towards its source, one would see a fat man in his mid-thirties, he had a belly no different from a round pot with a simrly circr shaped face that sported a pointed hat.


    He sat in a simr cushion seat in azy posture while one hand yed with his long but curly mustache that apanied a set of narrow and business-looking eyes.


    Jae trembled a bit at his father''s words, showing a tinge of timidness as he replied, "F-Father, it''s scary."


    The fat man frowned as he looked at his son, his face taking on a strict look as he spoke, "Jae, you are no longer five years old, you need to learn to stop acting like a spoiled child, as the most talented of my sons only you can seed our family. You should know why we''re making this trip in the first ce, so get your act together!"


    Jae''s eyes grew watery as he nipped his small little lips and clenched his fists tightly; after a short while, he lifted his head and answered with a bit more determined eyes, "I understand, father."


    The fat man snorted, no longer looking at him as he continued to rest at ease, taking out a stack of paper to read in the dim lights.


    Jae didn''t have anything to do; as such, he set his sights outside of the carriage once more, the harsh winds and relentless rain pouring onto the earth as if it were storm as the thunder''s echoed continuously.


    Jae felt scared at this, but after recalling his words, his fists clench tighter as he forced himself to gaze out the window.


    ''I am Jae Willborn; I will not be scared.''


    His thoughts rang out as he did his best to ovee his weakness, but right at this time, Jae''s eyes couldn''t help but show surprise as he caught a glimpse of something.


    "Father, there''s something there!" Jae shouted in rm.


    The fat man was a bit shaken by Jae''s shout, unlike before when he said he was scared; he didn''t curse at him this time for he knew of his son''s natural senses.


    Without even needing him to make amand, the carriage suddenly shook beforeing to a halt. Moments after, the alerted voices of the two Centuarians sounded from outside.


    "Who goes there?"


    Jae was a bit anxious as he heard the shouts; the fat man grew even more scared. He looked at his son and spoke to him as he walked towards the front window.


    "Stay there and don''t move."


    "Y-yes, father."


    As he heard Jae''s reply, the fat man nodded and stared out the small window connected to the front; there, he saw a strange scene.


    Three individuals in the dark capes stood before them in silence, two of them holding daggers as the one at the front held onto a ymore.


    His face was free of the cape''s hood, showing an ordinary face with scars and a heavy beard. He stared in front of him as if he were staring at prey rather than humans as he made a wildugh.


    As the fat man saw the familiar face, his face sunk as he eximed in his thoughts.


    ''Oh-no! It''s that darn Mad Sword Denver! How the hell did I provoke such a fiendish bandit?''


    While the fat man had a pale expression, the scene outside wasn''t any better as the two Centuarians had a dark look when they gulped and hoisted their weapons for battle.


    Sweat rolled off their faces as they full well of danger behind this kind of individual, he was a rtively well known Three Star E ss warrior in these parts of thends.


    Denver sneered as he looked at the guards before setting his sights onto the carriage; as he saw the symbols etched on its surface, he spoke in an excited manner.


    "Haha, to think that I would have the fortune to meet the famous merchant Vawn Willborn on route to Ivanov. Hurry ande out, we can do this the easy way, or the hard way."


    Following Denver''s words, a bolt of bright lightning shed from nearby, lighting up the surroundings. A dozen or more shadows garbed in a simr cloak stood silently as if unaffected by the storm as they surrounded the carriage.


    Vawn frowned as he saw this sight and heard those words; he bit his lips as his eyes shone with anger while his thoughts rang out loudly.


    ''Who? Who was it that told him of my travel route? There''s no way that a bandit like this could have just so happen to find me, especially during this kind of storm, he even came prepared for a protracted battle, damn!''


    Vawn''s face turned red in anger as his face became filled with veins; even his son Jae looked at him with a tinge of fear, not daring to make a noise.


    Denver was a man of a short temper; when he noticed that no reply came from the carriage, he frowned before he raised his ymore and yelling.


    "Vawn Willborn, did you not hear me speak? I said, get the hell out!"


    Vawn gritted his teeth before he stared at Jae and spoke, "Don''te, stay right there."


    Jae nodded while trembling before Vawn, who calmed himself down. He reached for a small box with a locker on it before cing his hand on the doorknob.


    The door opened with a loud creak, and Vawn exited the carriage, Denver who was getting ready to attack, stared at this with a smirk. He waited for Vawn to stop a little distance away from him before he spoke.


    "Huhu, now that''s better, I''ve always heard that you''re a smart man Vawn, and now it seems that those rumors were true; you''ve already known what I came here for."


    Denver''s eyes glowed with greed as he looked at the same wooden box in Vawn''s hand. He licked his lips and sniffed as if he could smell what was inside.


    Vawn tried his hardest to hold back his anger, his fat face contorting in the harsh rain that doused his body, soaking his blond hair and luxurious clothes wet as they stuck to him tightly.


    "Denver, I can hand this item to you, but you must tell me who told you of its dealings."


    When Vawn said this, his eyes carried a stern look, far different from a regr businessman''s.


    Denver snorted as he yed with his ymore and answered, "Huhu, Vawn, oh Vawn, it looks like you still don''t understand the situation, I''m not here to request it from you, I''m here... to take it."


    The moment Denver said this, his eyes shone with a sharp ray as he nced to the left and right. The two cloaked individuals who stood by him also nodded as they made hand signs before lowering their stance and tightening their daggers'' grip.


    ''Shit! It''s worse than I''d thought, I''m finished!'' Vawn cursed in his mind, his eyes showing a look of despair as he knew that today would likely be his very end.


    The Centuarians gulped as their arms trembled when holding on their pikes as the murderous aura filled the area. Denverughed as he was about to shout themand to attack, but right at this time, there was a sudden change.

 Chapter 30: An Unexpected Party

    Chapter 30: An Unexpected Party


    The thundershower was still at its peak, but even its flowing droplets were unable to cleanse away the gloomy scene below it. A battle that was only moments from transpiring between famed bandit and merchant, destined to end in a tragedy, until an abrupt urrence.


    With a buzzing sound, a bright ray of light lit one section of the nearby woods at the corners of the rough pathway. As if drawn by this new light source, Vawn and Denver looked towards that direction in surprise.


    Denver who was surprised gave one of hisckeys at this side a look, theckey then nodded before he jumped, his figure dancing through the woods like an agile cheetah as he hurried to inspect the source of the unknown.


    "Tsk, I want to see just who would have to gall to disrupt our affairs," Denver said with a ruthless look in his eyes as he kept his eyes in the direction hisckey went.


    ''Shit, just what could it be this time? Our luck couldn''t get any worse, these guys were definitelymissioned by those bastards.''


    Vawn''s thoughts rang out as he could recall the face a few enemies he had since young. He hesitated a bit as he noticed that the strange light took up Denver''s attention, a look of firmness appeared when he nced at the two Centuarian guards with a knowing look.


    As if they understood, the two Centuarian guards quickly brandished their pikes and released their bindings, their fierce gallop sounding as they instantly arrived within range of the distracted Denver and attacked.


    "Vawn, you think that your foolish One Star E ss Warriors can sneak up on me? Hmph! Let me send them to their deaths!"


    Denver said with a vile look in his eyes that had turned to nce at the assaulting Centuarians. He keenly watched as the two pikes that glowed with their mystical power cut through the dense rain droplets at high speeds towards his sides.


    Not wasting a moment, he firmed up his grip on his chipped ymore before he kicked the ground, pushing himself backward by a meter''s distance.


    As a result of this action, the pikes stabbed thin air, but as if the Centuarians expected this, their faces had cruel sneers as the energy that coated their pikes flowed towards its tip and fired towards Denver at rming speeds that few could ever avoid.


    "Great, well-done men!" Vawn said with augh as he was gambling on this attack, he knew it was risky, but it seemed that the sneak assault was about to seed.


    Vawn looked on with eager eyes awaiting this famed bandit''s death, but sadly, the result would prove otherwise.


    Denver smirked as he saw the ray attacks; he didn''t even try to dodge as his body soon became shrouded by a dense mystical power. He then crossed the sword in front of him as his mystical power formed a barrier before it.


    The energies then collided soon after, creating an explosion that leveled the area before the carriage, leaving behind a deep ditch.


    Denver stood at the center of this ditch with his sword held before him as if unphased by the previous all or nothing attack, but before Vawn and the Centuarians could even express their shock. Two cloaked shadows blurred and appeared by the Centuarians sides, their arms swung their daggers across the guards'' necks, leaving behind a graceful arc of light before they stood behind them in silence.


    The two Centuarians had widened their eyes as they held their throats with both of their arms. They tried to close the wound that was bleeding, but in the end, they fell to the ground in silence.


    "Nooo!" Vawn cursed out loud as he saw the scene before him, he wanted to run away, but the two cloaked figures rapidly ced their daggers at his sides, causing him to halt.


    Denver chuckled at this as he slowly walked forward and stopped a little distance from Vawn, his eyes staring at the carriage behind Vawn, causing him to feel a bit anxious.


    Denver''s mouth curved into a smile as he made a look as if he just recalled something when he spoke.


    "Now that wasn''t good behavior, Vawn, you''ve certainly let me down, as well as your family name. Hmm,e to think of it, wasn''t there a famous prodigy amongst your n? I''ve heard rumors that this thing of yours was supposed to be an entrance gift for his sake, how touching... bring him out!"


    Following Denver''s words, a few men walked into the carriage, causing Vawn''s face to sink even further as he begged.


    "No! Please, Mr. Denver, I am truly sorry about my conduct earlier, my mind was a bit muddled by the rain and lightning, please don''t harm him, if you wish to punish anyone, do it with me instead?"


    "Shut up!" Denver shouted as punched Vawn''s t belly with his fist, causing it to sink in deeply as he coughed out blood due to the severity of the hit.


    The two otherckeys then grabbed Vawn''s hands and forced him to kneel, showing an extremely pitiful appearance.


    Denver then stared at him and spoke, "You listen here, Vawn, when I do things I don''t like when others try to interrupt me, understood. Both you and your son are going to die here today; you can make no certain of it, I am only keeping you alive to see the death''s of those who came to disrupt our affairs."


    As Denver said this, his eyes no longer stared at Vawn as he only focused his attention to the scene with the lights in the nearby woods.


    Vawn, who was a bit dizzy and weakened due to the harsh hit, coughed a bit more before he weakly gazed to the side, there he saw that a bandit had already brought out the trembling Jae, who was too scared to do anything.


    ''F*ck, if... if I ever get another chance... I will kill those bastards no matter what cost I have to pay,'' Vawn thought with rage-filled eyes, but sadly, he knew that the likelihood of surviving today was far from what he could ever imagine.


    Unlike this scene, a distance away from that scene, the bandit that traveled towards the light source soon arrived at an area where he could observe the situation.


    There, within an open area with a fewrge stones, a gate had formed from nothingness. It swirled for a while before four figures appeared from it, not long after it contracted and vanished into thin air.


    Looking at the group that appeared, one would notice that they seemed no different from a regr family, a handsome man and a boy with ck hair, with a woman and a child with colorful green hair.


    ''This... this is teleportation! Such a high-level spell, who the hell are these people?'' The bandit thought in shock, but it also didn''t hinder him from sending back news through a unique information technique.


    ''Boss, I''ve found the disturbance, but it appears that it''s only a family of four.''


    Denver, who heard this message in his mind, frowned before asking inwardly, ''A family? Where did theye from? How strong are they?''


    Theckey''s eyes shed as he focused on only the man and woman, ignoring the children. However, moments after, his eyes then became a bit more at ease as he spoke, "Boss, both adults are at least a One Star D ssbatant. As for they came from, I''m uncertain as they had emerged from a teleportation spell. Should I keep observing them?"


    Denver paused for a moment to think before he sent him back a message with cold eyes.


    "Don''t; they aren''t as important as I''d thought, One Star D ss isn''t no different from the empire''s cannon fodder soldier. Anyways, let''s not waste any more time as that other party is still waiting on our results from today''s affairs; just hurry and kill them, we don''t need any witnesses."


    On the other side, the bandit''s eyes soon after revealed a dense murderous desire as he answered, "As you wish, boss."


    Unlike the nning bandits, Marius, who had just finished inspecting his surroundings, looked at Ria and spoke.


    "Honey, it''s raining quite hard, but it looks like we''ve gotten ourselves into quite some trouble already."


    Ria looked at Marius before turning her eyes towards the area with murderous intent, she grinned as she spoke, "Dear, should I go?"


    Marius shook his head as he cracked his knuckles and spoke, "No, for some reason, I''m feeling a bit off, so let me handle it."


    Ria nodded, saying nothing more as she only held onto the sleeping Little Rose and used her powers to conjure an umbre out of the surroundings.


    Marius looked at Grevlin and spoke, "Son,e, it''s time father show you the ways of the world."


    Little Grevlin looked at his father with an innocent look as he spoke, "Okay father."


    The bandit that was gearing up to attack looked at this in rage. Never had he been so disrespected, he had thought that upon revealing his menacing presence, he would see the looks of panic on their faces. Typically, only it would cause him delight before he killed such weaklings. However, today he was drastically mistaken.


    Suddenly, the bandit''s eyes widened in shock as he no longer saw Marius nor Grevlin. Before he could even understand what was going on, he heard a cold and indifferent voice behind him.


    "Son, this will be your first lesson, the lesson of what you should do when another manes to threaten your life, watch closely..." The voice said.


    As the bandit heard this, he felt an astonishing amount of danger the likes of which he had never before, he knew without turning around that in this very moment, his life had met its end...


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 31: The Monster In Human Flesh

    Chapter 31: The Monster In Human Flesh


    The harsh rain continued to fall, drenching the world below it with its murky waters. Denver, who took his eyes from the woods, smirked as he stared at both the weak and pitiful looking Vawn that groveled before him along with his trembling son Jae.


    "Vawn... I wanted to y with you a bit more, but it looks like your time has run out; I hope you have a good trip to the afterlife."


    After saying those words, Denver waved his hand, causing the bandits that held onto both father and son to ready their daggers to strike at their vitals. However, right before this could happen, a startling scene urred.


    "Ahhhhh!"


    A tragic cry sounded from the woods, bringing a startle to Denver and his bandits.


    "Huh? What''s going on?" Denver angrily shouted as he knew of his men''s capabilities, even if they were to make quick work of someone, they would do it silently and efficiently.


    A bad feeling came over Denver as he felt a menacing presence from the air. Not wanting to ignore his senses, he hurriedly hoisted his ymore whilemanding, "Forget the two of them and prepare for battle! It looks like our intruders aren''t of the average standard."


    "Yes, sir!" The bandits said as they tossed Vawn and Jae to the side, no longer paying them any mind. They then spread out into a circr battle formation as if waiting to be attacked from any direction.


    Vawn coughed out blood as he crawled over to his trembling son and held his arm; Jae looked at his father while shivering as he spoke, "F-Father, what do we do?"


    Vawn stared at the current scene as he spoke, "There''s nothing we can do, but hope, hope that whatever ising will not be of detriment to our lives."


    Jae shook even more at those words, his innocent eyes eyeing the woods that now had a spooky air as an unknown danger seemed only moments from breaking loose.


    The air grew even colder as the dense rain fell without an end, soaking the bodies of each of the bandits that silently stood as they red at the bushes. No one ventured too far, as they were experienced enough to know that only by working together can one face the unknown.


    Denver, through all his years of experience, had never encountered an enemy like this. Still, he remained silent and used his senses to perceive his surroundings. He couldn''t even sense a trace of his enemy, as if the scream just now from hisrade had never transpired.


    ''Where are they hiding?'' Denver thought as his eyes showed traces of fear, the ymore in his arm rattling due to his disturbed mood.


    Suddenly, a thunderbolt shed across the sky as the rumble sounded soon after, the moment this happened, a handsome, bulky, ck-haired man in simple clothing appeared at the center of their bandit''s formation. It was as if he was standing there from the beginning seeming to be one with their unit able to assume perfect synchrony.


    When Denver saw this man, his eyes widen in shock; he couldn''t even open his mouth to scream due to the terror he felt as his eyes swept across the eyes of the enemy, one that seemed no different from a bottomless pit of death.


    Not only Denver, even the other bandits knew this as they had only discovered the man a few moments after Denver, the weapons in their trembling hands rattling.


    "W-who is this guy?" Vawn uttered in a low tone, his eyes staring at the scene in bewilderment, but regardless, he was still in a bad position, so he watched in silence as he searched for an opportunity to flee.


    At this moment, Marius stared at the men around in with an indifferent look. Though he wasn''t trying to, he had unknowingly revealed a tinge of his past murderous intentions as an assassin.


    Still, he didn''t attack them despite being in a favorable position. He merely nced at the person whom he had assessed to be the leader as he spoke, "Do you know what you''ve done?"


    Denver gulped as he bit his lips and swallowed his fear before he replied, "You... how did you get here? How dare you question me? Do you know who we are?"


    The bandits, as if being jolted by his words, soon recovered their bearings, their eyes shining with menace as they held their gleaming weapons with the intent to draw blood.


    Marius shook his head and spoke with a sigh, "To think that those are yourst words, it''s a pity. Take these words with you to your next life, sometimes its best to not provoke random strangers. Grevlin,e here."


    Denver and the bandits made puzzled looks as they heard Marius''s words; they looked at each other before they red at him.


    "You foolish man, don''t think that because of your mystic stealth ability used to get by us, you can scare us off! Because of your foolish actions, today will be the day of your death! Boys, kill him!"


    Denver shouted as hemanded his men to attack; the bandits then rushed chopped their weapons towards Marius without any hesitation, the edges of their swords and daggers cutting through the rain in slow motion as Marius didn''t even seem to mind it.


    ''Truly an idiot, not even dodging, does he think that he can block steel with his flesh?'' Denver thought as he saw that Marius didn''t know even show signs of dodging.


    His eyes showed mockery as he could already picture the scene of him being skewered from all sides, but sadly, his dream was ill-fated.


    With a sound simr to something hitting metal, the des which touched Marius''s skin halted with their points resisting against its surface, unable to sink even a millimeter into his flesh.


    "Mo... monster!"


    "It''s a devil!"


    The rming cries of the bandits sounded across the area, as Denver, who had a look of terror in his eyes, spoke in surprise.


    "Wha... what kind of monster are you?"


    He never thought he would witness such a scene, even at his level, he would need to gather a vast amount of his mystical energy just to block des from fighters with his hand''s many steps weaker than himself. As such, one could see just how crazy it was for one to even think about performing this feat with just their fleshy body.


    Vawn looked at this in terror as he couldn''t even say a word, his son Jae, only tightly clenched on his father''s shirt, not daring to look at the scene anymore.


    At this moment, the only person at ease was Marius, who calmly stood with the different de tips pressed against his skin. He treated it as if he didn''t notice it as he eyed the woods. Soon, a childish but cold voice resounded.


    "I''m here, father," Grevlin said, filling everyone with a hint of curiosity.


    Not long after, Grevlin slowly walked out of the dark woods before standing at the opposing path.


    When the bandits saw a small ten-year-old child appear, they looked on in shock as they didn''t know what the hell this man was thinking of calling out his son in public.


    Suddenly, Denver, who had previously been contemting escaping, got an idea as he stared at Grevlin with delight before looking at Marius andughed.


    "Haha, you''re quite a strong one, it must have been hard to master a Fleshy Body Mystical Art, but even so, all arts have a limit, and not only that, you''vee to fight us all alone and brought your family. Truly a touching but simrly foolish act. Men, hurry and capture the boy!"


    The bandits didn''t even hesitate to charge towards Grevlin, each rushing from each of his sides.


    "Not good!" Vawn said in rm; his eyes showed traces of pity and helplessness as he knew that no father would be able to do anything once their children were at risk.


    Denver smirked at this as he nced at Marius; having pushed down his fear, he felt as if he was now in control. At this point, he was expecting to see Marius kneel and beg him not to kill his son, but oddly enough, the result was different from his imagination.


    Marius had a calm look on his face as he didn''t even look at Denver, his eyes gazed at the scene with the four bandits charging towards his son.


    ''Now show me, show me your resolve...'' Marius thought with cold eyes as he looked at Grevlin, an unusual look far from his normal loving fatherly appearance.


    Denver felt that the situation would flow as expected, but before he could even figure it out, a new change urred.

 Chapter 32: Child of a Devil, Mariuss Lesson

    Chapter 32: Child of a Devil, Marius''s Lesson


    "From the darkness, I awake..." A resonant and grim voice said.


    Following the sound, the scene had a dark and ominous air as unknowingly to everyone within the pouring rain; a shadow had appeared directly before the seemingly helpless boy that stood within the coarse pathway. A ruthless looking being roughly one head taller than himself, it had pale gray skin and wore a darkbat robe with a knife in one arm.


    The moment this creature appeared; it swung the knife in a spiral forming a ck line around Grevlin''s body. As this happened, the knife shed with the various weapons of the bandits sending sparks across the rainy but dark surroundings followed by a sharp humming noise. The bandits that rushed towards Grevlin were then repelled by a few meters with some crashing into the muddy earth.


    "Eeeek! This, what the hell is that thing?"


    "Such terrible energy, how can any man possess such cruel energy?"


    "This boy... how could we not see it? If the father is a demon, then his son will be the child of a devil!"


    In a state of horror, the bandits cried out as they stood in silence, not daring to move a step further, most of them even wet themselves, but the heavily pouring rain drowned this out.


    ''What kind of energy is this? A summon, and such a high grade one, who are these people?'' Denver thought with fearful eyes as he noticed the dark entity that protected Grevlin. He bit his lips, thinking that they had made a terrible mistake this time; he wanted to run away.


    However, his face turned cold as he saw that Marius was no longer in his previous position, a startling amount of danger rose within him, but before he could even react, it was already toote.


    With a sound simr to meat being pierced, a gruesome noise echoed before Denver looked down at his chest in horror, there he saw arge, muscr arm that tore through his chest from behind, treating his decent grade under armor as if it was nothing more than paper.


    What was even more disturbing was the beating heart that was vaguely visible from the surrounding lights cast by the carriage from a distance. It pulsated as if it was striving to give life to an already fated corpse.


    "No... no... I" Denver tried to say something, but sadly, his voice only grew lower with each passing breath until he slumped forward on therge arm that soon crushed the heart.


    With another gruesome sound of meat shifting apart, the arm pulled back and easily slipped out of the chest of Denver, ending his legend forever in this gloomy wilderness.


    The other bandits that had surrounded Marius looked at this in shock. They were each unable to say a word as some of them even fell onto their buttocks while trembling.


    Vawn had his mouth wide open in shock as he couldn''t believe his eyes, if it were any normal man, they would even faint in terror, but one could quickly tell from his manner that he was also a man with a depth of experiences.


    Marius paid no heed to the fallen Denver, nor the other bandits, his eyes stayed fixed onto Grevlin as he raised his blood-soaked arm to the side as the rain washed away its filth.


    "I always hated that technique; the Heart Snatcher is too dirty; I dare not hold my wife with this hand for the rest of the night."


    Marius casually muttered as if speaking to himself, causing others'' faces to turn even more stern, looking at him as if they saw a devil.


    At this time, the darkness entity made a bow towards Grevlin before speaking in a polite tone.


    "I serve the master."


    When the bandits who were repelled by Grevlin heard this, the looks on their faces grew even more solemn. Nevertheless, Grevlin being only ten years old, still had a tinge of hesitancy. He gave a slightly naive look towards the four men on the ground before he nced at his father with teary eyes.


    Vawn looked at this with a knowing look. He thought to himself, ''So that''s how it is... a child is but a child, even if monstrous.''


    A few bandits noticed this made a strange look as their eyes shed, but no one made any odd movements.


    Marius sighed as he saw this, he thought to himself, ''Maybe I expected too much, though his strength along with the powers of that summon of his has risen, he is still but a child in the end. He may need time to adjust to this kind of mentality, and killing beasts isn''t as simr as killing humans.''


    After wrapping up his thoughts, Marius''s tone changed a bit as he spoke, "Grevlin, this is an issue that you will have to learn to ept overtime. If you don''t ovee this phase, it will only serve to be your greatest weakness. For now, I shall take your first kills, but the next time, it will be up to you to face it on your own."


    Grevlin bit his lips as he lowered his head and replied, "O-Okay, father."


    Vawn''s eyes shed as he heard this, he nodded his head agreeing with this kind of parenting, he lowered his head and looked at his own son, with odd thoughts unknown to anyone but himself.


    As if the Darkness Soldier could hear Grevlin''s will, it made a polite bow and faded into the darkness merging once more with his shadows.


    Jae, who was previously hiding away, didn''t miss out on the previous scenes. He stared at Grevlin with a starry look as he thought to himself, ''H-H-He''s so strong, I... I must be like him!"


    Having made up his mind, Jae balled up his small arms into a fist as a determined look appeared on his face, his eyes emanatingpetitiveness. Vawn, who was looking at him, nodded his head as he made a slight smile while thinking, ''Good, that''s my son, you are a Willborn, even if inferior at the beginning, you must always strive to outdo the other, your talents will take you to the summits of all things.''


    Unlike Vawn and his son, the bandits heaved a sigh of relief as they saw the current change; a few of them cast each other looks before one of them who was closest to Grevlin sneered with a rich amount of killing intent in his eyes.


    "Stinking brat, since you dare to look down us, ept your death!"


    The bandit yelled as he used all of his power to dash towards Grevlin.


    Jae, who had been watching Grevlin like an idol, had a look of panic as he shouted, "Look out!"


    "Darn, these bastards are taking advantage of his childishness!"


    Vawn said in rm as though he knew that this might happen; he didn''t think they would have such guts, especially after seeing Marius''s brutality.


    Speaking of Marius, Vawn hurriedly cast a look towards his position; he expected to see him with a look of panic. Yet, he was once again disappointed as Marius merely looked on with indifference.


    ''This guy... does he not care about his son?'' Vawn thought with a frown on his face, but he no longer pondered it, because the exchange between Grevlin and the bandit had already begun.


    Because the distance was close, Grevlin, who was in a low mood, failed to react adequately.


    "No!" Grevlin yelled as he struck back with one of his fists by instinct, with a loud bone-breaking sound, Grevlin''s fist smashed onto the bandit''s arm, causing it to twist as he cried out in pain, but despite this, the de that was about to sh Grevlin''s neck, only veered off course as it cut a deep wound on his chest.


    "Ahhh! Father, it hurts!" Grevlin cried out as he fell back and held his chest; the blood spewing down gave him an awful feeling.


    Jae and Vawn looked at this with pale looks, but Marius seemed unphased. The bandits who saw that one of therade''s attacks were sessful had a joyous expression. They ignored theirrade who had fallen on the ground with nk eyes as they charged towards Grevlin. They knew that their only hope for survival rested on his shoulders.


    Vawn was about to curse in anger as he wondered what the hell kind of father would do nothing after seeing such a scene, but soon, he noticed that he was gravely mistaken.


    Marius, who was previously standing by Denver''s corpse, had suddenly appeared by Grevlin''s side; he stared down at him with an icy expression as he spoke.


    "Son, this will be your first lesson, let that mark remain with you to teach you of your mistake. Now listen closely, when dealing with enemies"


    As Marius spoke to here, he slowly turned around and faced the bandits that halted in fear; his body then began to erupt with a startling amount of murderous intent as someone had touched his reverse scale.


    Grevlin held himself together and bit his lips, staring at his father''s back in silence; he didn''t want to appear weak, not after what just happened.


    "Never limit yourself."


    Following those words, a bright light shed as an explosion formed before everyone, but as it faded, the bodies that belonged to the lively bandits had vanished from this world.

 Chapter 33: Vawns Manner, Being Offered A Ride

    Chapter 33: Vawn''s Manner, Being Offered A Ride


    As if driven away by the ferocious scene, the dark clouds faded from the gloomy heavens, revealing an even clearer picture of the colorful cosmic wonder of Valoria''s night.


    Now that the relentless rain had finally ceased, the scene below it had also entered a fitting closure. The fallen blood was washed away by the previous downpour as the remaining bandits that assaulted Marius was blown into nothingness, forever ending their tale.


    At this time, Marius was busy treating Grevlin''s chest wounds; he gently wiped some ointment on his surface before bandaging his chest, showing a look akin to a more caring and loving father.


    "Are you feeling better now?" Marius asked in a gentle tone.


    "Yes father," Grevlin replied with a joyful smile on his face, but deep down, one would see that his eyes had a slightly different look when recalling how he almost died by the sneak attack.


    Marius knew that Grevlin wasn''t as okay as he tried to appear, but he said nothing; this was something he had to figure out on his own; when he doese to understand, he would have matured from his current self.


    By now, Vawn had already recovered from his previous state, cleaning himself up as he also fixed his son''s attire. Now that the bandits were annihted, you could say that both he and his son had been given a new lease on life, but sadly, he still had other matters to worry over.


    "How can a random man with such power just up and appear in this remote route to Ivanov? I can''t even tell if he''s on the level of a Famed Warrior, or those rumored Imperial Knights. Not only that, his child has a strange ability to summon unusual beings, what kind of family is this?'' Vawn thought to himself as he stared at Marius and Grevlin with a thoughtful look on his face.


    Vawn pondered for a good while until Marius helped Grevlin up and looked as if he prepared to leave; he shook his head saying nothing as he also wanted to hurry and get out of here, the bad weather from before along with the near-death experience had been far too much for his mind.


    Jae hesitated a bit as if he wanted to call out to Grevlin, but as he felt his father pulling him towards the carriage, he said nothing and only followed in silence.


    The scene here seemed as if it was going to be a silent parting between strangers, but suddenly, a voice sounded from nearby.


    "Honey, it seems that you''ve already finished up, shall we get going?" The lovely voice said, seeming to carry an innate bewitching power that could charm the soul of any man.


    Vawn, being a man of wealth, was no stranger to beauties and their traits; just by hearing that voice, he knew it was a woman of a different kind of look, far from even the epitome of high-grade brothels.


    He turned his head, unable to resist the urge, only to be greeted by the most beautiful woman he had ever seen in his life. A lithe figure garbed in a simple but decent dress that further enhanced her beauty. Her long green hair cascaded down her back as she held onto her sleeping angel with a warm look from her mesmerizing purple eyes, directed to the handsome and strong man before her.


    ''Be...beautiful... absolutely beautiful; I would have never believed that I meet such a superior qualitydy, especially after such an event. I... what do I do...''


    Vawn wasn''t what you might call an exemry man. He was a figure with countless affairs and would do anything to get what he wanted, even more so in business and romance. Even though he knew of the dangers, he couldn''t just let such a sight pass his eyes.


    "Come with me, let us offer our thanks to our savor," Vawn said as he gave his son Jae a good look, pulling him along towards Marius''s direction.


    Not paying attention to them, Marius looked at his wife with a smile as he spoke, "It was only an exercise, Grevlin was a bit hesitant, but you could say he performed pretty well for his age. You''re right; it''s about time we left this ce, it''s a bit gloomy. I wonder which direction is the nearest town from here..."


    Ria looked at him before she spoke with a smile, "Oh, that''s easy. I can find it if I..."


    Ria was about to say something, but Grevlin''s attention soon shifted to the side, noticing that Vawn was nearing. He spoke to interrupt her.


    "Mother, that man ising over."


    Marius and Ria nced over at Vawn''s direction with curious eyes, Vawn seeing this, hurriedly made a polite bow as Jae, who had spirited eyes while staring at Grevlin, performed the same act a few beatste.


    "Greetings, famed hero, this humble merchant''s name is Vawn Wilborn, and beside me is my heir Jae Wilborn. We want to offer his thanks to the great sir for his timely rescue. If it had been anyter, I would have never lived to see another day; for this act of kindness, my son and I are incredibly grateful."


    Both Vawn and Jae had made a customary gesture with one arm crossed before their chest as they bend forward respectfully during their greeting.


    Ria made a surprising look at this as she stared at them before fixing her eyes onto Vawn; her eyes narrowed as she could sense a few his emotions but thought nothing of it since it was something she had been dealing with in her childhood years.


    Marius frowned as he stared at Vawn and spoke, "You don''t need to thank us, we are but strangers, I didn''t act to save you but annihte a potential threat; consider this as merely a stroke of fortune. Ria, Grevlin,e, let''s leave."


    "Alright, dear."


    "Okay, dad."


    Both Ria and Grevlin replied as they followed Marius, who had turned to leave this area. Vawn looked at this in panic; his eyes stuck onto Ria''s swaying back that caused him to bite his lip with reddish eyes.


    He wracked his mind for a bit until his eyes shone with enlightenment as he spoke, "Dear Sir and Madame, please wait one second, I know the way to the nearest town, care to join us on our journey."


    Marius frowned at those words, he wondered why this man was so persistent, but as he recalled his statement, he gave Ria a good look, noticing that she was looking at him awaiting his choice before he stared at Grevlin with the bounded wound on his chest.


    ''Ria might be fine, but Grevlin is still a child, I can''t have him tough out such a wound as we travel blindly searching for a town; this isn''t the time for such training either.''


    After gathering his thoughts, Marius then stared at Vawn and spoke, "Fine, we''ll take you up on this offer."


    When Vawn heard this, his eyes lit up as he vaguely nced at Ria before acting like he didn''t do anything. Marius noticed it this time, his eyes shone with a cold look, but he said nothing, for now, he only wanted a good source of transport for his wounded son and a quick and easy method of reaching the town.


    Vawn hurriedly shifted his eyes onto the carriage and made an awkward look as he saw the corpses of the Centurions. He then spoke, "Oh, poor me, I''ve forgotten that our rides were in, we might need to catch some hor..."


    Vawn was about to say something, but suddenly, Marius stared at Grevlin and whispered something into his ear. Grevlin then lifted his hand before with his palms spread wide as they glowed in dark energy when he spoke, "Come out."


    "I hear and obey." The Darkness Soldier said as it rose from his shadow and knelt.


    ''There it is... that strange summoning ability, if a child like this goes to that ce, he is almost guaranteed to be a legend.''


    Vawn thought as he keenly stared at Grevlin. Jae''s eyes also lit up when he watched Grevlin''s technique with apetitive look in his eyes.


    Marius seeing Grevlin''s summon patted his head as he stared at Vawn and spoke, "You don''t need to worry, this fellow will carry us, now let us be off."


    Vawn nodded at Marius''s words as he spoke while making an inviting gesture towards the carriage in the distance.


    "Please, right this way."


    Following those words, Marius, Ria, Grevlin, along the sleeping Little Rose entered into the carriage, which was soon after pulled by the Darkness Soldier that now had a sullen look on its face, dragging them towards the distance throughout the starry night route.

 Chapter 34: A Strange Mood, The Royal Branch Academy

    Chapter 34: A Strange Mood, The Royal Branch Academy


    As the carriage moved throughout the cold night scene, crossing through various winding routes that led towards the vast reaches. Those on its interior remained in a state of silence, a strange air wafting about as one could even feel a slight tension in the air.


    Three different adults sat in stillness as they didn''t even speak to each other, two being a handsome ck-haired man along with a beautiful green-haired woman nested in his embrace.


    The final party was none other than the blond-haired fat man who asionally swept nces towards the green-haired beauty, despite focusing his attention on the window, his eyes showing a strange look.


    With rattling noise, the carriage shook ever so slightly as from the small front windows; one could distinctly make out the strange grey-skinned entity''s struggle in dark battle robes that towed it towards the distance.


    Curiously, two children of a simr age were staring out this tiny window; one of them carried an unusual look, being oddly contemtive for a child of his years. The other showed a look more fitting for his age, filled with excitement and yore as he basked at the sight of the unfamiliarity.


    "Hey, I''m Jae, what''s your name? That summoning of yours is quite incredible; what''s it called?" Jae asked with beaming eyes that stared fixedly onto the Darkness Soldier.


    Grevlin, who had previously been lost in his thoughts, only now snapped back to his senses upon hearing Jae''s words. He gave Jae a look with a hint of difort on his face; he wasn''t one to talk to strangers and frankly avoided contact from anyone else but his family.


    Jae, on the other hand, was born of high birth, from since young he had been mingling with members from different walks of society. He wouldn''t shunt away from a gathering nor show shyness in front of strangers. If anything, he was only a bit timid when faced with the unknown as well as dangers.


    "Huh? Did I say something wrong?" Jae said with confusion his eyes. After thinking a bit, he gave Grevlin a good look and spoke again.


    "Hmm, I might have spoken incorrectly, I''ll ask again; I really like your summon; I''ve never seen it before, especially one as unique as yours. Can you tell me its name?" Jae asked with a smile on his face.


    Grevlin hesitated for a while, casting a look towards his father, who wasn''t looking at him; he then looked at Jae.


    "It''s Grevlin, that''s my name... as for that creature, it''s my Dark Soldier."


    Grevlin replied in a somewhat vague manner, not bothering to stare at Jae any longer; Jae looked at him with a slight disappointment in his eyes before he thought of something.


    Moments after, his eyes lit up as he asked, "Hey Grevlin, I couldn''t help but notice that you''re also at the minimum requirements for the Royal Branch Academy. Are you nning on enrolling as well?"


    This time, Grevlin was surprised; he stared at Jae and asked, "Royal Branch Academy, what''s that?"


    "Huh, are you for real? How can you not know about the academy?" Jae asked while giving Grevlin a strange look as if this should bemon knowledge.


    Vawn also made a pensive expression as he stared at Grevlin before looking at Marius and Ria.


    ''Odd, how can he not know this? Could it be that they''re from the far-off edges of the empire? But even if so, they should at least have some knowledge of something so basic.''


    While thinking, Vawn recalled the sightings from earlier as he pondered, ''Now that I think of it, that child''s summon is unusual, say not of its abilities, it''s even capable of towing our carriage for such a long time. Not only that, but even that boy was able to narrowly avoid a fatal injury from an E ss Assassins, while his father is more than likely at the levels of those Famed Warriors. They truly are a strange bunch, but even if so heh, it only makes it more interesting.''


    Vawn contemted with a smile on his face as if trying dig deep into their secrets. On the other hand, Marius only nced at his wife and spoke to her with his mind.


    "Ria, what do you think? When we do settle down, we can''t keep him home with us all day. Should we send him to that school?"


    "Hmm, I''ve heard of Artimans and their customs; even in the Hellshire, we have facilities for training our younglings, the only difference is the methods used. Let us gather some more information before we make our choice, dear."


    Ria said, her eyes then fixed onto Little Rose who slept in her hands with a snot bubble on her nose. The two tigers, Little ck and Little White also sat on herp while sleeping.


    Marius nodded as he yed with her hair, and the two continued on in silence. Neither Vawn nor Marius and Ria interfered in the conversation that Grevlin and Jae were having; it seemed that though different, they each had the same beliefs in raising children to handle their own affairs.


    By this time, Grevlin had nothing to say about Jae''s words, forcing Jae to make aplex look before he spoke again, "It seems you really don''t know of it, I don''t know why youck such understanding, but it''s fine, I''ll tell you about it."


    After saying those words, Jae''s face became filled with excitement again as he peered outside and spoke once more.


    "The Royal Branch Academy is one of the numerous branches for our empire''s number one school of warriors and other legendary characters. It''s said that any graduate from its ranks is sure to be either Famed Warriors or, even better, granted the opportunity to be Royal Knights."


    When Jae spoke to here, his eyes shone with excitement as he gripped his small fists tightly while speaking again.


    "As you know, Royal Knights are the strongest of all warriors in the empire, people with a greater degree of strength than Famed Warriors. It is my greatest wish to be one, and it is the very reason I am enrolling in Ivanov''s Royal Branch Academy. You know, I might just be talented enough to be transferred directly to the main royal academy, hehe!"


    Jae''s eyes shone with ambition andpetitiveness, especially due to his birth. He wasn''t one to not aspire for great things.


    Grevlin, on the hand, preferred silence; if he could merge with a shadow, he would do so dly; the only things he cared about were his family and nothing more.


    Following true to his nature, Grevlin didn''t say anything more to Jae and only fixed his eyes on the outside, Jae seeing this frowned, but said nothing; he snorted and looked outside. There he saw a bright collection of lights in the distance from what seemed like a vast city, pushing away the darkness of the night.


    "Look, father, we''re almost there!" Jae said in excitement while pointing his finger and staring at Ivanov from afar.


    Vawn also noticed it; he nodded his head and spoke, "Indeed, it truly was quite the journey."


    Marius and Ria also gave the glittering city in the dark a good look, the duo''s eyes flickering as they knew that from this point onward, their life in Valoria had truly begun.

 Chapter 35: The City of Ivanov, Vawns Words

    Chapter 35: The City of Ivanov, Vawn''s Words


    Ivanov was a huge middle-ss city within the Grand Alvaria Dynasty. It was a marvelous metropolis that spanned an unknown distance, capable of housing more than two hundred thousand families with ease. Its high walls were made from Blue Iron Stone, giving it a bright blue sheen that shone brightly due to the variety of unusual lighting frommps embedded on its surface.


    Like many other middle-ss towns, Ivanov was a city with its specialties, famed for its variety of unique products, ranging from weaponry, engineering, and other local produce from specially bred mystical beasts.


    For this reason, Ivanov has primarily selected a central hub for business between all middle-ss towns within the Hignd Prefecture of the entire dynasty. Many famous merchant families and other parties were nested beyond its all-embracing walls, making it both a ce of wonder and obscure currents hidden beneath its outer facade.


    Nevertheless, these issues were of no concern to the current party entering its domain, neither the Wilborn''s who are of middle-ss merchant family background nor the Edgewicks, who are merely outsiders experiencing this brand-new world.


    While Jae pointed outside of the window excitedly, chatting away in hopes of drawing his father''s attention, Marius, Ria, and Grevlin stared out the window on the other side of the carriage as they sized up the scene before them.


    After passing through the towering gates with a few guards on watch, they moved along with a series of carriages through a crowded street paved with ancient stones. Most of them had moss growing from through their cracks, as others had aged color carrying a hint of the town''s history.


    Looking around, one would see a variety of buildings lined at the corners of the streetways, paving a path towards the distant center where arge building stood, overlooking all others.


    People moved about chatting in idle, be it couples or wandering warriors, each dressed strangely from the typical sight on Earth, many of them garbed in armor with weapons at strapped at their waists as these people lived a more harsh lifestyle.


    Some of the carriages that passed by had Centuarians pulling them towards the front before halting at arge building in the distance with a sign titled, Centuarian Coach Firm with its famous symbol hung high above its walls.


    Jae''s eyes lit up as he spoke, "Yes, we''re finally here. I can''t wait to take a bath and change these dirty wears. Father look, Uncle Brav is standing nearby."


    When Vawn heard those words, he narrowed his eyes as he looked ahead at the building, seeing a slender looking man with the spectacle on one of his eyes, along with a pointed mustache. His body well decked out in a high-ss noble suit as he stared in their direction, or rather, onto Grevlin''s Darkness Soldier with a strange look in his eyes.


    ''Tsk, if it wouldn''t be that bastard, it looks like I''ll have to find separate chances to get closer to that miss; I''ll first need to handle these affairs.''


    Vawn thought as he currently pushed aside his thoughts on Ria, focusing on the present issues.


    Marius and his family felt at ease at this time, they had finally found civilization, and while the sights were a bit strange for Marius and Grevlin, they quickly adjusted as if it was nothing too rming.


    "Let''s get going; we can''t overdo on our ''host''s'' kindness," Marius said as he looked at Ria and Grevlin before hinting towards Vawn with his eyes.


    "As you wish, dear."


    "Okay, father."


    Ria and Grevlin replied without any hesitation; it seemed that they were a bit disturbed by the Wilborn''s. Following those words, Marius and his family glowed in a strange light before vanishing from their positions. Vawn stared at them with an in-depth look on his face, his current thoughts unknown to the world.


    By this time, the carriage had already arrived at the Centuarian Coach Firm. When this happened, the Darkness Soldier that carried a listless look vanished into the shadows that faded into nothingness. In this instance, the obnoxious voice from the person identified as Uncle Brav had sounded from the outside.


    "Vaaawn! You''re quitete on this recent travel of yours; I''ve heard that you wereing days ago and was expected to arrive this evening, but who would have thought that you''d be held up. What kept you? Surely it couldn''t have been that sudden outburst of rain; such a little storm is truly nothing."


    When Vawn heard this, he gritted his teeth while thinking to himself.


    ''Che! Bastard, I bet that this shit face was one of those whomissioned that Denver, humph! I''ll have my way with him soon...''


    While Vawn pondered dark thoughts, Jae hurried out of the carriage towards the man on the outside as he spoke in a cheerful voice, "Uncle Brav! Uncle Brav! It''s me, Jae. I''m happy to see you!"


    Uncle Brav''s eyes narrowed when he saw Jae appeared but that soon changed as he patted his head while speaking with a gentle look on his face.


    "Haha, oh my Jae Boy, it''s been far too long; I remember when you used to be a little runt no taller than my knee, time surely flies. You''re here for that entrance exam, am I correct?"


    "Hehe, yes, Uncle Brav, I dare say that I''ll get first!"


    Jae replied with a look of confidence on his face.


    "Oh, that''s the spirit, truly expected of a Wilborn; I''m expecting remarkable things from you, Jae Boy."


    Uncle Brav said with an extra smile on his face, his eyes closed so tightly that it curved, showing a simple look on his face.


    At this time, the annoyed Vawn had appeared from the carriage; he stared at Uncle Brav and snorted before he walked by him as he spoke.


    "Come on, Jae; we have business to attend."


    "Oh, okay, father."


    As Jae and Vawn walked into the building, Brav''s eyes shed in a cold ray as he nced at the slight amount of damage on the carriage and thought to himself.


    ''They''ve made it here in one piece, but I have yet to learn how, what was that creature that escorted their carriage, and what happened to that team? Tsk, it looks like I''ll need to speak with the others.''


    After wrapping up his thoughts, Brav wasted no time here, walking towards a different direction of the building, not even caring about Vawn''s initial indifference, his lips curved in a mocking smile as he muttered to himself.


    "Hmph! Even if you got here in one piece, you wouldn''t be able to escape the next storm..."


    Unaware of his Brav''s thoughts, Vawn led Jae towards the main quarters to formalize a recent ident report. However, while walking, he noticed that Jae had a slightly lost look on his face.


    "What''s the matter?" Vawn asked.


    Jae hesitated before he spoke, "Father, those people haven''t left with us; they''re still in the..."


    Vawn shook his head as his eyes showed aplex look when he recalled how Marius and his family just vanished from the carriage moments ago. He spoke, "They''re gone."


    Jae was rmed at this; he didn''t know when they left; he recalled Grevlin''s figure and gripped his fist as he spoke, "What? But... I... I haven''t yet..."


    Vawn frowned at this and snorted as he spoke, "Listen to me boy, I''ve told you repeatedly, you are a Wilborn. Even if we have fallen to the ranks of a mere merchant family, you are never to stoop so low as to beg others for their strengths, nor seek out what they aren''t willing to give; our ancestor''s blood is much too proud for such a chore. Remember, if a man is stronger, you can exceed him. If he''s taller than you then outgrow him, and if there is something in this world that exists at a higher level than you do, rise above it and take it with your own two hands."


    As Vawn said this, he didn''t even look back onto the dazed Jae that stared at his back in silence, watching as he went ahead of him as he gripped his fist with hardened eyes.


    ''Father, I... I understand, even if he might be my better, for now, I shall exceed him in the future, for I am Jae Wilborn.''


    Following those words, Jae''s aura changed by a tiny section, the air around him having a tinge of majesty which faded an instant after as the scene here continued like normal.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 36: The Bustling Night Scene, Fallen Star Inn

    Chapter 36: The Bustling Night Scene, Fallen Star Inn


    The night was long, but that was hardly noticeable in a ce like Ivanov, brightly lit by the variety ofnterns hoisted high at the corners of buildings and wooden street posts.


    Now that they had separated from the meddlesome Wilborn''s, Marius and his family were free to wander about to their own devices. They blended in with a crowd of human-like persons, some with unique markings at various parts on their flesh, giving off a strange kind of energy.


    asionally, they would bypass more Centuarians pulling carriages like the one they used to arrive at the city. Still, unlike those creatures, others roamed the street freely like any other Artmians, people with multiple tails, four eyes, or even hairy and bulky individuals with four arms.


    "Hurry and buy my finest gears! Don''t let the night limit your actions, it''s the best time to hunt Night Beasts!"


    "I am selling three Spiral Arrows for the price of one,e and get them now before the bargain ends!"


    While walking, Marius and his family saw a few pointed eared elves and even dwarfs that set up stalls, trying to sell a few items despite thete hour.


    "I''d have never thought that I''d find myself in a ce like this, not after what I''ve been through on Earth..." Marius said in a soft tone, his eyes flickering with a look of recollection.


    In this instance, he seemed to have traveled back to his childhood days on Earth, raised by cruel individuals for a sole purpose.


    Ria, who stood nearby, looked at his figure with a smile on her face as she spoke, "Dear, are you missing those times?"


    Marius shifted his eyes from the scenes onto his lovely wife as he smirked and replied, "Me? I suppose you could say that those were the times I truly felt alive, but I''m satisfied with my current life."


    When Marius said this, his eyes ran over Ria, Grevlin, and the adorable sleeping Little Rose. Ria felt touched by his words; she stared at him with her beautiful eyes before she kissed his cheek out in the open.


    "Me too."


    Ria said after removing her lips from his face, leaving behind her mark of affection that was now firmly imprinted on his cheek.


    Marius smiled at this and held one of her slender waists before he spoke with firmer eyes, "That''s good to hear; even if we''re now in this world, it doesn''t matter. We will carve out a ce and raise our children to the best of our abilities."


    Ria nodded at his words before turning her eyes down onto Little Rose, held in her bosom, and then onto Grevlin, Grevlin seeing her look lifted his head and smiled, causing Ria to pat his head with her free hand.


    Marius said nothing more on this as he shifted his eyes around and found a building in the distance; it was a reasonably tall structure with the sign of a house embedded on its walls directly before its entrance.


    "If my memory serves correct, that should be the symbol for an inn; let''s go and rest up. Tomorrow We can try to figure out how we can get ourselves a house." Marius said as he started to walk forward.


    "Right, but are you considering settling down here? What about the Esteemed Senior''s friend?" Ria said as she followed along.


    Grevlin walked behind them in silence; he didn''t have much of an opinion where they stayed; as long as he was with his father and mother, he would be fine.


    Marius made a thoughtful look as he recalled the Mountain Ax Senior mentioning of his friend Helmstine; he replied, "Hmm, that friend of his is located in the capital of this dynasty. If possible, I would prefer it if we didn''t keep haggling with strangers and handle our affairs by ourselves, but if pushes to shove, we can visit him if necessary. For now, let''s temporarily settle down here; we can rent a house before deciding on where to stayter on, and also enroll Grevlin into a good academy."


    As Marius said this, his eyes wandered a bit onto Grevlin; even if he was keen on raising him to be powerful and decisive, he wasn''t too interested in forcing him through the same path as himself. Heck, he''d rather Grevlin learn more on his own while asionally seeking him out for guidance. After all, every man is the master of his own path.


    Ria, being his wife, naturally knew of his true intentions, she no longer saying anything about it, for to her, the better hood of her children was all that mattered.


    Grevlin nced at his parents and said nothing; he felt happy having such a caring father and mother.


    ''Mother, father, I will do my best to never disappoint you, even if in this strange world,'' He thought to himself with a set of firm-looking eyes. Ever since young, he had been indulging in their care and affection, because of those very reasons he had always strived to improve himself to make them proud.


    Not knowing of Grevlin''s thoughts, Marius and Ria continued onward with him at their sides; it didn''t take long for the entire family to arrive before the building. Looking at it closely, one would notice the Artiman characters that spelled out, Fallen Star Inn.


    "Fallen Star... such a peculiar name, don''t you think so, Ria?" Marius said with a curious look on his face.


    Ria also replied with a simr gaze, "Indeed it is, look, those characters going in and out, they''re all of a simr wavelength."


    As Marius heard her words, he paid a closer look towards the persons entering and leaving, but as he did so, he noticed nothing; he thought for a moment before invoking a skill with his mind.


    ''Sense.''


    Following those words, his eyes glowed as the scene soon changed, growing darker as only the silhouettes of each person passing by was clearly visible, each having bright auras of simr intensity, showing that they were each at a simr level.


    Marius was surprised at this; he disengaged his skill and used his [System] to check their levels, noticing that each of them was at the very least between Level 15 to 20, having thebat rank of F ss to E ss.


    Marius''s face turned a bit curious at these details as he thought to himself, ''Interesting, it looks like we''ve found a den of sleeping tigers."


    Not long after his thoughts, both he and his wife looked at each other before stepping forward with Grevlin behind, entering into the inn of strangers as they prepared to bring an end to their long night.

 Chapter 37: Curious Characters

    Chapter 37: Curious Characters


    The Fallen Star Inn was the most popr tavern within Ivanov; people from all social sses, societies, and different private groups would flock to its domain to banter or gather information. Generally, one would onlye here if they''re at a certain level of strength or fame, for the likelihood of offending those of high standing was more than one hundred percent.


    No one knew who owned it as the person behind it had always remained a mystery to all. But even so, there weren''t many who would dare to break its customs.


    The pub was currently incredibly lively as people of different walks chatted to each other as they enjoyed the nighttime atmosphere.


    At this moment, Marius and his family had already entered the inn, their movements caught a few eyes from some of the patrons, but as if they weren''t interested, they all continued to mind their own business.


    Marius swept his eyes around randomly and sensed the powers from those gathered on its inside. A few characters had towering energies than rest, one being a middle-aged man that sat in a corner with his head lying on the tabletop as he held onto arge wooden mug of liquor.


    However, the second was a young beauty in fine wears, short and curly orange hair with freckles on their face, her body was slim, and behind her ample rear was a tail, which seemed simr to that of a lions.


    Marius looked at this and thought to himself, ''She should be the receptionist if I''m correct, but her strength is unnatural. Let''s take a quick look, inspect...''


    Following Marius''s thoughts, a notification appeared before his eyes, along with a screen showing the youngdy''s information.


    ____


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Li Linaes]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 23 | Age: 20]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Lioness]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: 1 Star E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: F | <strong>Strength</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: E | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Lion Cry | Level 4]


    [<strong>Learnt Skills</strong>: Lion''s Dance, Earth Rending ws, Liontooth Knifework]


    ____


    When Marius saw her details, he wasn''t too surprised as he knew that she would have more or likely been at a higher level than himself. In fact, for her to be at this stage at her age only meant that she was somewhat of a talentedbatant at her age.


    ''Interesting, so my conjecture was right, so long as they aren''t too strong, I can see their full details using my [System]. If they are like that Mountain Ax Senior, or maybe twoplete Battle Ranks above her rank, then I might see limited information or none at all.''


    After Marius wrapped up his thoughts, he nced at Ria and Grevlin before speaking, "Come, let''s go register."


    Ria and Grevlin nodded as they followed along behind Marius; as Ria held onto the sleeping Little Rose, she couldn''t help but nce around with a bit of curiosity; she had spent most of her life in the Hellshire, always wondering what most of Artmians society was like. Now that she was exposed to it, she couldn''t help but find the people fascinating, much like those on Earth.


    Grevlin also had curious eyes, but none of that was of interest to him; he carefully held the two tiger cubs at his front between his arms, hidden behind the loosely zipped up jacket that usually hid his arms.


    It didn''t take long for Marius to arrive before Li, who currentlyid down with her head resting against the countertop, almost half asleep; it seemed that the noise and banter from the customers around didn''t even have a slight effect on her mood.


    Suddenly, her arms twitched as if she only just sensed Marius''s arrival; with a look of surprise in her eyes, she hurriedly fixed her posture and wiped the drool from the corners of her red lips as she responded.


    "I, I, I''m very sorry for my previous appearance, customers, wee to the Fallen Star Inn, how may I help this lovely family on this fine night?"


    Ria snickered at this as she pondered, ''Hehe, she''s a bit of a ditzy; I''ve always heard about those from the Lion race. These Lionesses are as they say, true to their nature.''


    Li felt a bit embarrassed at Ria''sugh; she lowered her head showing a red face; Marius gave Ria a look as he spoke, "Hey, don''t bully the child."


    Ria rolled her eyes as a mean look came on her pretty face as she replied, "Honey, I don''t like the way you''re speaking up for strangers. Tsk! Fine, since it''s like this, you can forget about anything else tonight."


    When Marius heard this, his forehead rolled with sweat as he hurriedly turned towards her and tried to exin.


    "Huh? Wait, I meant no such thing; it was honestly only a tiny misunderstanding!"


    "Hmm, are you sure?"


    Ria asked, giving Marius a suspicious look; Marius didn''t dare to hesitate as he replied, "Yes, I am absolutely sure. My lovely wife is my heart; why would I dare to illtreat you?"


    Ria looked at him with her beautiful purple eyes for a short moment as she smirked and replied, "Fine, I''ll let you off this time."


    When Marius heard this, he heaved a sigh of relief, but unlike him, a few others had noticed his small scuffle; they couldn''t help but chuckle under their breaths as they looked at him with mocking eyes.


    The middle-aged man that rested his head on the table seemed to have awakened at this time; he stared in the direction of Marius and his family with a curious look in his eyes before they turned serious as he saw Grevlin. However, that look soon faded as a smile rose at the corners of his lips.


    ''Incredible, I didn''t think that by wasting away here, I would meet another talent; this is truly the golden age for the entire dynasty.''


    The middle-aged man thought as he no longer looked at Grevlin but shifted his eyes towards Marius and his wife, his look showing a trace of curiosity.


    Not noticing the strange man''s gaze, Grevlin shook his head at the current scene; he was long since used to his parent''s antics in the open; tonight''s little act was nothing more than a primer for their genuine public engagements.


    By now, Marius had recovered to the norm; when he looked at Li, he saw that her eyes had a hint of tease in it, as she had even forgotten her prior embarrassment as she looked at him.


    Marius tried to keep a poker face as he spoke, "Young miss, I would like to register for a room for my family."


    Li didn''t pick on his weakness; she asked professionally, "How long would the Sir and his family be staying?"


    Marius nced at Ria, who nodded her head with a charming smile as he spoke, "Hmm, I think we''ll register here for a night, and tomorrow we''ll discuss a lengthy payment scheme."


    When Li heard this, her eyes lit up as she knew that the inn would be making quite a sum this time. She warmly smiled as she spoke, "Good, we can discuss the rest tomorrow, for a single night, the cost is no more than ten small krills."


    Marius took out a few of the small krills he had received from the Mountain Ax Senior''s home, not wasting another moment he handed them to her. These krills were small shiny crystals that shone in dim blue light, the very form of currency used in this world. One hundred small krills quantitate to one medium-sized krill, and one hundred medium-sized kills equate to onerge krill.


    Li''s eyes shown with excitement as she hurriedly put away the krills; she then got up and handed Marius a token as she walked towards the stairs at the corner of the room while speaking, "Good, follow me."


    Marius and Ria followed along with Grevlin; they soon left this area as they climbed the stairs. However, right at the moment he was leaving, Marius cast a quick look towards the side of the room, towards the middle-aged man; he stared at him intently before turning away and moving upward.


    Noticing Marius look prior, the middle-aged man smiled as his eyes shone when he murmured to himself, "Huhu... a sharp one, such a fierce tiger and talented cub has crawled into our nest, I wonder what kind of changes to expect in the future."


    His eyes had a curious look as he stared out the window, gazing into the starry night sky as if trying to peek at the future.

 Chapter 38: Being Jealous, A Warm Night

    Chapter 38: Being Jealous, A Warm Night


    While escorting the family towards their quarters, a few idle inn customers couldn''t but stare at Ria with bright eyes as they whispered amongst themselves.


    "Oh my, her hair is so pretty."


    "Hmph! I think it''s fake; she''s definitely a skank."


    "Have you looked at yourself? You''ve got no ce to ridicule others."


    A few women bantered back and forth as they saw Ria''s unique appearance. However, while women spoke such words, the men chattered with excitement in their eyes.


    "Wow! Such a finedy, where did shee from?"


    "Dummy, look closer; she''s already chained, there''s no way we can treasure such a finess."


    "Pssh, so what, it''s not like it''s that hard to steal a marrieddy, idents are mostmon in this world, and for such a feeble looking man, I doubt he canst long."


    As the jealous man said those words to the others, he couldn''t help but stare at Ria with lust-filled eyes, but as this happened, he felt a surge of murderous intent from an unknown location, forcing him to shrink back while trembling.


    At this time, Marius''s eyes shone with a cold ray as he nced at the man, but Ria, who walked by his side, snickered as she teased, "Hehe, is my husband jealous because of a stranger?"


    "I am not," Marius said fiercely denying it.


    Ria grinned at this silliness as she spoke, "Sure-sure, of course, you aren''t. I guess that being adored by many isn''t such a bad thing."


    When Ria said this, Marius rolled his eyes as he nced at her snorted saying nothing. Grevlin and Li looked at each other and sighed; it seemed that they foundmon ground at this moment.


    No longer paying attention to the others, Li focused on carrying Marius and his family to their room; she opened the door and hand over the key as she stared at them and spoke with a weing smile.


    "Here we are, room number 30. Once again, I sincerely wee you all to our inn, and I hope that you will all have a pleasant stay here, do have a good night."


    After saying her piece, she turned around and started leaving the upper halls, her slender waist swaying from side to side as her tail bounced, drawing a few eyes from others roaming the halls.


    While Marius had given her a look, he was unphased by it, but as Ria was innately suspicious about such matters, he hurriedly looked at the room and spoke.


    "Come everyone, let''s get inside and rest up; we have a long day and an even longer road ahead of us."


    "Okay, father."


    Grevlin replied as he quickly entered the room behind Marius; Ria, who was a bit focused on the room, only woke from her slight daze as she nced at the direction Li left before staring at Marius with sharp eyes.


    After closing the door, Ria looked at Marius and spoke, "Honey, were you distracted just now?"


    Knowing full well of what she wanted to ask, Marius denied it as he spoke, "My dear Ria, of course not,e let us get to rest and not ponder such troublesome things."


    Ria snorted, saying nothing as she brought Little Rose towards a different bed and ced her down; she then inspected the room and found a separate door used for the restroom.


    After opening it, she saw arge basin and a sink with a facet; the pipeline ran from it towards the ceiling, which further led towards a more in-depth section of the entire town.


    ''Oh, it looks like we''ll be able to have a decent bath.''


    Ria thought as she soon after left the restroom and stared at Marius as she spoke, "Honey, I''m going to wash up with Little Rose; you do the same with Little Grev after; I don''t want these sheets to be smelly."


    "Sure, whatever you say, dear," Marius replied with a nod as he heard her words; he stared at Grevlin, who was trying to find a ce to put the sleeping tigers before looking out the window at the night scene.


    Ria smiled at this as she walked over and wrapped her arms around his waist; she took a light whiff of with her nose before whispering in his ear.


    "Hmm~ honey, you don''t smell that bad, but if you don''t wash properly, I won''t promise anything in the next few hours, so you better make sure to scrub clean."


    The instant Marius heard those words; his mouth turned dry as his eyes lit up as if he had caught a fire, he rested one of his arms onto Ria''s slender arms that wrapped around his waist and replied.


    "As my lovely wifemands."


    The two remained silent for a while as no one spoke; they soon after separated, and Ria hurriedly woke up Little Rose and brought her to take a bath.


    "Mama, let''s go y!"


    "Hehe, that''s my good girl;e let us see who can win our water fight."


    The joyous sounds of water sshing sounded from the restroom, causing Marius to make a gentle smile as he imagined the scene of Ria and Little Rose ying.


    Grevlin, at this time, finally put down the tiger cubs with a satisfied look on his face; he used one of his pillows to act as a cushion for the adorable little tigers.


    Marius took a good look at Grevlin for a while as his eyes turned a bit recollective as when he stared him, he saw a few shadows from his past. After sighing, he got up from the bed and sat down by his side, causing Grevlin to look up at his face with his innocent child-like eyes.


    "Son, you did good," Marius said, not clearly saying what he meant as he softly stared at him and patted his head.


    Grevlin made a pensive look before his eyes lit up; being a smart child, he knew that his father was referring to his fight against those bandits. While he didn''t perform to the best and failed to kill them, he felt better than his father praised him for his efforts.


    "Thanks, father," Grevlin replied as he closed his eyes and enjoyed his father''s pat of affection.


    Marius smiled as he looked at him before ying a family game with his son to pass the time. A good while after, Ria had finished her bath with Little Rose and was coaxing her to sleep on the other bed; Marius gave her a look before he did the same with Grevlin.


    After the father and son finished washing, they promptly dried off and returned to the main room. The sound ofugher sounded in the lit room, which soon after faded into silence as the night pressed on to the brand-new day.

 Chapter 39: A New Day, Peculiar Rumors

    Chapter 39: A New Day, Peculiar Rumors


    Time passed quickly, and a new day had risen over Ivanov; the warm morning rays rapidly pushed away the darkness of the night, giving the entire town a weing and fresh atmosphere from the cool morning breeze.


    The bustle had already started as many sounds could be heard from the outside, popr Centuarians Coaches, regr horse drove carriages, and even strangers mounted onto wild beasts roamed the streets as they went about their daily business.


    This very scene painted the entirety of the town with a lively vibe, fitting for its fame across the entirety of Alvaria. By now, Marius and his family had already awoken; they cleaned themself up and assorted their items readying themselves to join the guests downstairs for dinner.


    Marius gave Ria a light smile as Ria looked at him with her pure eyes showing rich affection, her face slightly reddish as she recalled their wild night. While it had been a while they bonded, they had let themselves loose in the hours prior, and luckily for the children, their antics were shrouded by Ria''s soundproofing magic.


    Marius held Ria''s waist and spoke, "Let''s go and eat; we''ll need to finish our registration for this inn and find out some more details about that Royal Branch Academy. If possible, we can try and figure out how to enroll Grevlin..."


    Having discussed this matter after their affairsst night, they had already decided that it was better to let Grevlin grow in a school, where he would have more knowledge of the world and its customs.


    Ria smiled and replied, "Alright, dear, let''s not keep up any time."


    Little Rose, who was dressed adorably today, looked at Ria as she ran in an unsafe manner before standing directly before her. She then lifted her hands and spoke, "Mama, I''m hungry."


    Ria worked loose of Marius''s arms and stooped down before she picked up her daughter. She poked her cheek and replied, "Okay, okay, my Little Rosey,e, let''s go eat."


    Little Rose was excited as she pped her hands and eximed, "Yay!"


    Grevlin smiled at this as he followed along, leaving the two tiger cubs behind on the pillow; it seemed that they tend to sleep a lot more like other animals due to their infant growth phase.


    As Marius and his family left the room and headed towards the stairs leading down to the inn''s dining area, many others looked at them with strange looks.


    However, most had their eyes fixed onto Ria, who had a charming radiance; her entire body was no different from a curse that could bewilder the spirit of too many souls.


    At this moment, within the dining hall, a few personnel were chatting about a recent rumor, filling the entire inn with a strange atmosphere as others eavesdropped from a nearby corner table.


    "Hup! I was right; those rumors were true."


    A bony old man said, he was garbed in worn-out leather armor as he mmed his mug of liquor on the wooden table. His face and ears had a tinge of reddish, showing his drunken state of being.


    "Huh? Are you sure about that? I don''t like hearing false news, so you know better than to spout nonsense, you darn old drunkard," A muscr fellow said with a set of fierce-looking eyes.


    The old drunkard hupped once more with his mouth drooling slightly, causing the muscr man to frown; he was about tosh out, but the bony man spoke once more.


    "Hehe... yes, I''m sure, I''ve seen it with my own two eyes the conflict seething between those of the Wilborn''s and the High Merchant ns. Not only that, I''ve recently inquired news from the royal city."


    After hearing those words, not only the muscr man but many others also looked at him in surprise as they didn''t care about the Wilborn''s. Instead, their eyes lit up when they heard the royal city.


    "I don''t care about the Wilborn''s nor their conflicts, so tell me, drunkard, what''s that rumor you heard about the royal capital?"


    The inn grew even quieter as one could even hear a pin if it dropped; the drunkard smirked, seeing the change as he spoke again with eyes that seemed sober.


    "While no official announcements have been made yet, I''ve heard that it has to do with the new talent in the pce. Yes, that very same fourth prince, even though young at the shy age of 10, because of his innate gifts, the Royal Knight Academy has decided to ept him earlier. In celebration of this, they''re also going to be opening its doors to all branches early next year."


    "What?"


    "That''s outrageous! Since when did the rules change! Is the recent born prince that much of a genius?"


    The crowd burst out in rm as they didn''t believe the words of the old drunkard; they all knew full well how much those of the royal capital looked down upon the average cities talents, even more so for those in branch academies.


    Heck, one would be hard-pressed to find talent from any branch academy that had sessfully enrolled in the Royal Knight Academy; those who do so are typically the most incredible talents ever known or those from noble lineage.


    "Crazy, just how talented is that royal talent for them to go so far," The muscr man said with surprise on his face.


    The old drunkard also had simr thoughts as he, too, wondered about the current change. Still, unlike everyone else, the familiar middle-aged man who had observed Marius''s family fromst night made a sly smile as he sat between them.


    The old drunkard and muscr man nced at this fellow with an odd look as they wondered if he had gone mad. Looking at this man more carefully, one would notice that he wore fine under armor below refined cloth edged with a faded symbol of two swords crossed over.


    He had an aquiline nose, angr shaped face with a trimmed beard, along with a scar across his lower lip, his messy ck curly hair fell to the sides of his face. Looking at the corners of his eyes and a few other areas on his face, one would even notice traces of wrinkles, giving him a wise look.


    As if the man didn''t care about their stares, he looked towards the nearby window at the night scene with sharp eyes. By now, his mood shifted as if he had finally sobered from his prior manner.


    "It''s far more than you can both imagine... for a new era dawns upon us."


    When the middle-aged man spoke, the muscr man felt strange as he looked into his eyes, filling a surge of dread due to the aura that now lingered onto his being.


    ''This crazy fellow, he''s no joke either...'' The muscr man thought as he gave him a good look before shifting his eyes elsewhere.


    The old drunkard also had a simr line of thought; he snickered as he looked at his mug and prepared to drown himself drunk once more. But before he could even do so, his eyes narrowed as he turned towards the entrance of the inn.


    Not only him, the muscr man and strange middle-aged man with a few others also shifted their eyes towards the stairway with pensive looks on their faces. Momentster, a new group entered the dining hall, a handsome and tall man with a bulky frame and a beautiful green-haired woman who held a lively child as another child followed at her side.


    ''Hmm, a family at this hour? Where did theye from?'' The muscr man thought as he looked at them, a few others also had simr thoughts.


    However, unlike them, the middle-aged man smiled as he recalled them fromst night. He stared at Grevlin before looking at Marius as he pondered, ''My wait was worth it; I''ll need to find a chance to speak with them.''

 Chapter 40: Sudden Conflict

    Chapter 40: Sudden Conflict


    While the middle-aged man had his thoughts, Marius and his family moved towards the counter. Upon noticing the silence, he didn''t even pay it any mind as he brought Ria and Grevlin towards Li.


    "Mama, why are they stwaring at us?" Little Rose asked as herrge and cute eyes saw the strangers looking at them.


    Ria poked her cheek and replied, "Because they think my little Rose is pretty."


    Little Rose''s face turned red as she heard those words; she looked at her mother and asked, "Really?"


    Ria kissed her forehead and answered with a loving look, "That''s right; my adorable daughter is the prettiest."


    Little Rose felt happy hearing her mother''s words; she hugged her tightly while staring at the strangers with an excited and innocent look. A few onlookers couldn''t help but feel sweet on the inside as some of them spoke to each other.


    "How cute? Such an adorable child, she''s so pretty when young, can you imagine what she''ll grow like in the future?"


    "Indeed, such a fine woman, and fine child, I wonder, where did theye from?"


    As more and more persons noticed Marius''s group, some spoke good things while others had envy and jealous looks. Marius shook his head and paid them no mind, but as for Ria, she nced at him and spoke with a teasing look, "Oh, honey, what''s wrong? Are you still feeling jealous because of this little attention?"


    "Haha, as if, I just thought that we might be bothered during our days from here on out."


    Marius replied in a low voice that reached only Ria''s ears; Ria made a sweet smile, one that seemed no different from a blossoming rose in a verdant field that even more attention from those in the tavern as she replied, "Hehe, so what? We can call it the adversity of a new life."


    "Indeed," Marius said as he nced at her and held her slender palm; a few men who had lustful looks red at Marius as he saw him holding Ria''s hand.


    As if someone didn''t like it, a man mmed his desk while speaking to hispany, "Che! It''s like watching a beautiful rose stuck in a pile of shit; some people shouldn''t reach too high."


    A few others also shared this sentiment, but they only voiced their opinions in silence.


    Li, who sat around the counter, stared at them with a hint of surprise. Her eyes beamed as she saw Marius, Ria, and their children walked over; she made a slight bow and spoke, "Good morning; I trust you all had a splendid night?"


    Marius was about to reply, but Ria suddenly spoke and replied, "Indeed, we did; it was a lovely night."


    When Li heard Ria''s words, she looked at her more keenly, noticing the look in her eyes; feeling a bit awkward, Li promptly changed the topic with a light cough.


    "Ah, yes, I''m sure you all did, so what can I do for you both on this fine morning? Are you ready to eat? Or do you want to continue yesterday''s discussion?"


    Marius gave Ria a look as cleared his through; Ria rolled her eyes, saying nothing as Marius spoke, "Right, I''ll just do both; we can settle the rest of the details right now for lodging here and order at the same time."


    Li smiled at this as she spoke, "Great, here is the menu; you can have your wife and children pick any table that''s empty and put the order out to the nearest waiter while we finalize the other procedures."


    "Perfect," Marius said as they took the menus and passed it over to Ria.


    Ria gave him a good look before snorting as she walked away with Grevlin and Little Rose towards a table with three chairs.


    Marius shook his head at this and shifted his eyes onto Li as he spoke, "Good, shall we get started."


    Li nodded as she hurriedly dug up some documents to prepare for the registration while speaking.


    "Alright, so for longer stays we usually offer three packages, from weekly, monthly or quarterly, each having a set discount of krills based on the number of people staying and its duration. Typically, for weekly, you would need to pay one hundred small krills or one medium-sized krills for the first package of one week, but..."


    While Marius spoke with Li, Ria had already arrived within the vicinity of the table; while walking, she couldn''t help but nce in the direction of the strange middle-aged man, who acted as if he wasn''t looking at them. However, she merely ignored him as she focused on the nearing table.


    Normally, all would be well, but for some unusual reason, when she was passing a nearby table, her elbow had somehow contacted a jar which fell from the table and crashed onto the wooden floor.


    With a loud sound, the jar shattered into fragments spilling its contents; Ria made a look of apology as she saw this, facing the direction of therge silhouette seated at the table as she spoke in her soft voice.


    "Ah, I''m sorry, I didn''t see it; please forgive my mistake."


    Little Rose, seeing this, also followed her mother''s actions from her arms, making an adorable smile as she spoke, "Sworry big uncle!"


    After both mother and daughter spoke kind words, Ria bowed slightly, showing her ample chest before returning to normal as she held onto Little Rose and walked towards the table again.


    Grevlin also did a light bow and followed them; many others in the inn thought it normal and wouldn''t fuss over such things. However, the atmosphere soon turned strange as most persons knew the identity of the person whose jar had shattered.


    These persons had grim looks when they saw the scene; they knew things wouldn''t end pretty, even more so when the person sat around his table for a while, not speaking.


    Boom! Soon after, a heavy sound sounded as if somethingrge stood up, causing most in the inn to swallow nervously as the new scene arose.


    ****


    Author''s Note:


    Feeling generous? Support the series by reviewing it on Webnovel and voting power stones.


    Level Up Family- /book/17397607105687205

 Chapter 41: Sudden Conflict 2

    Chapter 41: Sudden Conflict 2


    The air was tense as the scene within the Fallen Star Inn couldn''t help but carry a violent mood. No one spoke or chatted like prior as their eyes were trained onto the figure of the towering silhouette that made its way towards Ria in thepany of two others.


    With each step taken forward, the wooden floor would creak as if it were an old ship at sea that couldn''t bear the weight of the man''s legs, bringing a surge of fear into the hearts of a few onlookers.


    "She''s done for..." One man said while shaking his head.


    "Such a pity, that fine woman, these darn brutes are the running dogs of that bunch; there couldn''t have been a worse time to show off such ady before them."


    "Look at the so-called father, so useless, his feigning indifferent by pretending to speak with the receptionist. It''s such a pity for a fine woman to meet a pathetic man like him."


    "Your right, but even if he did have the guts to help with, he wouldn''t be able to do anything. Those bastards are always cruel with their methods; look at that dirty little trick of theirs, forcing the jar to fall off on purpose; it looks like this won''t be a peaceful morning."


    As more persons voiced their opinions, some looked at Ria with pity as others seemed to enjoy the morning entertainment. It didn''t take long for the man and hisckeys to arrive directly before Ria, Grevlin, and Little Rose.


    Looking at them closer, one would notice a skinny and a well-built man in patched-up leather armor; they both had scars on various parts of their bodies with their weapons being chipped at their edges.


    At the head of this group was a bulky male with hair like fur on his skin as he had four massive arms, the size of a grown man''s waist. He red at Ria with his sunken eyes as his messy beard stuck out from his rough-looking face.


    ''So, this is a Mantar; it looks like those books of the elder were quite urate in their description, be it in their nature or physique. Heh, truly fascinating, but those poor fools don''t know whose family they''re dealing with,'' Marius thought as he observed from the side of Li with a mocking look, but as if he didn''t care, he continued to focus on registering and signing the documents.


    Li had a pensive look as she saw therge Mantar ring down on Ria with lust; she looked at Marius and saw him writing up the necessary details and made a curious look stared at him with her arm holding the side of her face.


    ''Hmm, he isn''t even a bit scared, hehe... this handsome mister is truly something else, or should I say, his family is quite different.''


    At this moment, the Mantar''s eyes turned a bit yful; he didn''t even pay attention to Grevlin or Little Rose as he smiled and spoke, "Such a beautiful woman, it''s a pity that someone of your ss must travel together with such a - weak man. Woman, you''ve gone and shatter my precious jar and even spill its contents; if it were any other person, I wouldn''t even give them the chance to beg for mercy. So, here''s how we''ll do it, if you apany me and my brethren for a few nights and forget those children, I might just consider letting you off."


    After the Mantar spoke, hisckeys started tough as one of them even boldly stepped forward and pointed his finger towards Ria, licking his lips in a sickening manner.


    A few persons cast looks of sympathy towards Ria as they heard the man''s words, but other than Li, the only person who observed with a set of keen eyes was the middle-aged man who slowly sipped his wine with a smile at the corners of his wrinkled lips.


    Unlike everyone else, Ria and Grevlin didn''t seem to mind the change; Little Rose made a pensive look as she stared at the Mantar before looked at Ria and speaking, "Mama, I dwon''t like him."


    Ria chuckled as she patted Little Roses head and spoke, "It''s okay; he''ll be gone soon."


    Little Rose had every confidence in her mother''s words; she snuggled her head onto her face and held her tightly with her small fingers as she replied with a cute little grunt, "Mn."


    Smiling at his little sister''s words, Grevlin looked towards the strange man''s direction with curious eyes as he looked at Ria and asked.


    "Mother, these uncles look pretty angry. Did we do something bad?"


    When Ria heard Grevlin''s words, she ruffled his hair and spoke with a gentle smile, "We did nothing child, this group of men is just one of those persons I''ve always told you about."


    When Grevlin heard those words, his eyes flickered with a hint of realization as he looked at the iing group of hostile strangers and spoke.


    "I see, then they''re all pests; no wonder I can''t stomach their presence."


    When the onlookers heard this, their faces showed shock and surprise as amotion started; even the middle-aged man didn''t think that Grevlin would say something like this out of the blue.


    "Hahaha! What a kid, well said, boy!" The middle-aged man said with augh as he lifted his head, unable to hold back himself.


    "This brat sure has guts,"


    "It''s not only himself, can''t you see that the woman and even that small baby has spunk; she''s the one who raised them to say such things."


    "True, but there are somethings that shouldn''t be said; look at Brakan; his face is so red he''s about to blow steam, huhu... this should be quite entertaining."


    Theckey''s face sunk when he heard Grevlin''s words, his eyes that stared at Ria, Little Rose, and Grevlin turned poisonous as he drew his sword from his waist and yelled, "You insolent wretch and dirty whore, I dare you to say that again! You better know that I will..."


    Theckey''s eyes burned with fire as his sword''s edge shimmered in a cold baleful light, he yapped away in anger, preparing to attack, but at this time, the Mantar called Brakan frowned as he snorted.


    "Silence!"


    Hearing Brakan''s shout, theckey gulped and calmed himself down as his forehead ran with sweat; he promptly took a step back as he spoke, "Sorry, sir, I got ahead of myself."


    Brakan snorted but said nothing to him; his eyes turned towards Grevlin, not even looking at Ria as he emanated a menacing intent. He spoke, "Boy, you''ve got guts; I can see that you''re raised well by your cunt of a mother. I''m curious, can you dare to say that again?"


    When Brakan said this, his body erupted with a denser amount of mystic power, shrouding his immediate surroundings. Most of those in the room had a change in expression, feeling his strength, but as for Grevlin and Ria, they remained indifferent as if they were unphased.


    Ria kept a warm smile on her face as she gently held onto Little Rose; her eyes were lovingly looking at Grevlin as if she had no interest in interfering with the current conflict.


    Grevlin frowned as he heard the man''s words; his eyes shed as he looked at Barkan and took a step forward as he spoke in an icy tone, "You big dumb bore, are you deaf? I don''t care who you are. I won''t allow for you to speak ill of my father, nor covet my mother, so get lost!"


    Following his words, Grevlin''s body also exploded with arge amount of mystic power, causing the onlookers'' faces to change from pity and ridicule to shock and utter surprise as they didn''t expect a child his age to have that kind of presence.


    Barkan frowned as he felt the powerful energy from the child before him, his manner growing a bit solemn as the mood once more changed.

 Chapter 42: Grevlins Might

    Chapter 42: Grevlin''s Might


    As everyone saw the imposing mannering from the ten-year-old child, everyone within the Fallen Star Inn was shocked. People''s eyes and mouths opened wide as some trembled due to the unexpected scene as argemotion ensued.


    "How could this be possible? How can a child like this have such an imposing presence?"


    "I''ve got to be dreaming, a random child that age with the strength of an F ss Combatant. Is he some monster like that royal family prodigy?"


    "I can''t say for sure, but he''s still beyond the standards of a typically talented child in that age group. Look, he''s holding his own even against someone as famous as Barkan''s E ss mystic power. Truly a little monster indeed..."


    As many of the tavern drinkers andte-night customers expressed their shock, some had to sh eyes when they stared at Grevlin; they thought it was an opportunity.


    Though a bit surprised by Grevlin''s release of power, the middle-aged man wasn''t too rmed as he had sensed his hidden power. He cast his sights onto his parents. His eyes narrowed as he saw Ria looking at Grevlin lovingly as Marius continuing to register with the even stranger receptionist, as if nothing else in the world mattered.


    ''So, I was indeed right, it''s not only the child; this entire family is a strange one...''


    The middle-aged man thought as he saw the scene before him, he no longer had the mood the drink but merely wanted to see how the entire act ys out.


    Currently, the tension had already risen to the peak, even more so when both sides revealed their energies. Barkan''s power condensed around his figure as his eyes showed a menacing look as he stared at Marius''s family. He noticed that both parents weren''t even paying him any mind, causing his mood to sink even further.


    "Damn little brat, since you and your parents don''t know what''s good for you, allow me to teach you instead! Chop off his legs and ignore the woman and that small girl child!"


    Barkan''s eyes had a cruel glow when shouted thosemands; the twockeys around him charged towards Grevlin and Marius,pletely ignoring Ria and Little Rose.


    Grevlin swallowed as he saw the current change, watching as the men charged towards them. He recalled his previous sh against the bandits in the wilds and couldn''t help but sweat as if he could still feel the bandit''s de that cut through his chest.


    ''I can''t disappoint father and mother; I''ve fought much tougher foes; I didn''t lose to that savage cat, nor the wild boar that spat mes, or even the ape that tried to rip me in two halves. I mustn''t be afraid to fight humans; I must crush anyone that threatens the family!''


    Grevlin thought with a determined set of eyes as he gritted his teeth, firming up his resolve as he clenched his fists tightly and stared at the iing men.


    Instantly, Grevlin''s manner seemed to change as his eyes glowed coldly; he adopted a fighting posture akin to a hunter in the wilds as he took a step forward and struck his wrapped up palm towards the nearestckey.


    "Silly brat, let''s see you try to mouth off without your lips!" Theckey yelled as he chopped his sword towards Grevlin''s face, his eyes showing a dense amount of killing intent. He knew that the talent of the child before him was phenomenal. As such, he didn''t show any mercy.


    With a sharp cry, the sword cut down, leaving behind a white line as it sliced through the wind, its edge soon arriving directly before Grevlin''s face. Still, right before it could chop into his skull, Grevlin''s eyes suddenly shifted towards it, ring at it indifferently as he raised one of his arms towards it in a sh.


    Theckey had a mean and excited look on his face as he could already picture the scene of Grevlin in severe pain, but sadly, as the sword''s edge hit Grevlin''s arm, the expected picture of blood and pitiful scream didn''t follow.


    Sparks flew into the air with a loud metallic collision sound as Grevlin''s arm quickly countered theckey''s sword swing. Looking closely, one wouldn''t even see a wound underneath the bandages that wrapped around it, obscuring it from all sight.


    "What in Alvaria?" Theckey eximed in surprise, even more so when he felt his arms shaking, carrying a trace of numbness due to the collision.


    His face turned dark at this scene and wanted to do nothing more than escape in the nearest ditch, but sadly for him, Grevlin''s other palm had already struck his chest.


    With a terrible force, theckey was thrown backward with a few bone-breaking sounds; even the leather strapped around his torso was ruined by the force of Grevlin''s palms that crashed into his body.


    Theckey''s spat out a chunk of blood that followed his body as his eyes turned white, falling unconscious, he then tumbled into a nearby table, ruining all of its delicacies as mugs and jars fell to the ground in abundance.


    Nevertheless, the persons seated around it didn''t seem to mind it as they looked at Grevlin with looks of bewilderment.


    "An F ss boy half the years of my grown son has easily bested an adultbatant of a simr rank? What kind of monster is this child?"


    A few others discussed with surprise; they didn''t know what to think anymore, for they hadn''t seen a genius like this in a long time. Even some of those rumored Otherworlders summoned by the royal family hadn''t shown unusual signs of this degree.


    While all the onlookers expressed their shock, the battle between Grevlin and theckeys had once more continued. Without even paying attention to hisrade, the secondckey that charged at Grevlin promptly lowered his posture and shed his curved shaped de towards his legs.


    Grevlin sensed the danger by instinct, but rather than showing panic or fear; he merely showed a look of indifference as he recalled the myriad of battles he fought against the vicious beasts in the mountains.


    Not wasting a moment, he jumped into the air and easily avoided the dangerous sh that swept across the ground, theckey now showed eyes of rm.


    "What? Darn! You little runt, get down!"


    Theckey yelled the instant his attack missed, he lifted his head and red at the airborne Grevlin as he prepared to swing his de upward to chop him into two halves. However, before he could do so, there was a sudden change.


    ''As you wish,'' Grevlin thought as he felt different while fighting with his current mindset, his lips curved into a slight smile as he twirled his body, using the force to smash his leg into theckey; this attack easily fractured a few of theckey''s bones as it pushed him into a nearby counter, forcing him to cough up a few mouthfuls of blood before passing out.


    After performing such a feat, Grevlin soon afternded onto the ground; he didn''t kill his opponents but knocked them unconscious. His arms trembled a bit, but he clenched his fist tightly and licked his lips recalling the strange feeling of satisfaction from shattering the man''s bones.


    At this time, Marius, who had finished his registration for housing in the tavern, finally shifted his eyes towards Grevlin''s direction and sighed with a strange look in his eyes. Ria also had beaming eyes as if she was praising him in silence.


    Li, having put away a stack of papers and the payment of krills nced towards Marius as she ced out four tokens and spoke, "All done! May your stay with us be a pleasant one, Sir Edgewick."


    "Thank you, Li. We''ll definitely do. Please excuse me; I need to handle some family matters," Marius said as he took up the tokens and started to walk towards Grevlin, the crowd was now shocked by the sights before their eyes, but unlike everyone else, only two persons had noticed Marius''s movements.


    Li and the strange middle-aged man smiled with a bright gleam in their eyes as they thought at the same time, "Looks like it''s about to end."

 Chapter 43: Grevlins First Mission

    Chapter 43: Grevlin''s First Mission


    With the tense air bing denser by the second, everyone observed the scene before with dumbfounded looks on their faces, even more so as they recalled how easily the small ten-year-old child took down two adult warriors of the F ss Standard.


    No one knew how to speak for quite some time, but other than them, Barkan who faced this embarrassment had a savage look in his eyes.


    "You insolent little wretch! You really have no respect for your seniors, today I will break your bones and teach you why you shouldn''t mess with adults!"


    Barkan yelled in an angry manner as he could no longer keep hisposure. When he recalled Grevlin''s movements used to take down hisckeys, he no longer looked at him as a child but a target to remove at all costs.


    In this instance, the powers of an E ss Combatant exploded from Barkan''s huge body, pressing down onto Grevlin''s small figure as it caused him to sweat a bit due to the pressure.


    Yet, despite the current scene, Grevlin didn''t show fear nor any intention of backing away, his bounded arms hidden behind wrappings clenched even tighter as he held them before him with a serious look on his face.


    At this moment, when Grevlin finally achieved a bnce with his state of mind, a shocking scene urred before his eyes.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Congrattions, the host has sessfully matured to basicbatant standard, quests can now be received!]


    Ding!


    [<strong>First Mission</strong>: Defeat the superior opponent!]


    [<strong>Rewards</strong>: Mastery Point 100, MysteryChest (???)]


    ____


    When Grevlin saw those details, he was shocked to the point where he was only moments away from eximing out loud. However, Grevlin also knew that this wasn''t the time to grow surprised about such things, especially with the man-eating monster that emanated a rich desire to y him as it revved itself up to its peak.


    <em>''I''ll check it outter, even if I lose, I don''t fear, my father will protect me.''</em>


    Grevlin thought as he no longer looked at the system but stared directly onto Barkan whose body was shrouded by his mystic power.


    <em>''Ahh... such excellent bearing, truly a good little talent. I must train him myself before his fame spreads and those old codgers find out.''</em>


    The strange middle-aged man said as he noticed Grevlin''s change, he was previously upied with Marius''s movements, but at the end of the day, his attention was primarily on Grevlin.


    Marius, at this moment, had only arrived beside Ria, he nced at her and spoke in a whispering tone, "You know, you''re a bad mother."


    Ria rolled her eyes at those words before doing a sly grin as she elbowed Marius and replied, "Hehe, I''m a Hellian, my ways are naturally different from humans or even these Artimans, if anyone here is a bad parent by both the Artimans and Humans perspective, then it''s you, my dear husband."


    "I... well, humph!" Marius said with an awkward look and a slightly red face, he knew she was right, especially with the fact that he harshly trained Grevlin in the wilds and use personal life-threatening situations against enemies as means of guidance.


    With this in mind, Marius finally took the chance to inspect his opponent causing his details to appear before his eyes.


    ____


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Barkan]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 20 | <strong>Age</strong>: 30]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Mantar]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: E | <strong>Strength</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Learnt Skills</strong>: Iron Skin, Four-Armed Boxing]


    ____


    <em>''Hmm, he''s not bad, he should make a good opponent for Grev-Grev to get more serious. Heh, I''ll add a little a bit of pressure to the mix.''</em>


    As Marius thought to hear, he stared at Grevlin who was readying for battle as he shouted, "Son, defeat him in a single blow."


    Ria hearing this snickered slightly as she nced at Marius as if finding his manner amusing, she didn''t deny his statement and kept a calm look as she stared at Grevlin encouragingly.


    Little Rose looked at both her mother and father with wonder in her eyes, but as she had no idea what they were talking about, she merely changed her attention towards her older brother.


    Not even understanding of the danger heading his way, Little Rose pped her small, adorable hands thinking he was ying a game as she cheered, "Brother must win!"


    Grevlin was a bit surprised at these father''s words and the cheerful cry from his sister. When he inspected Barkan, he knew that it would be a neck to neck battle. Nevertheless, as a child doing his best to get praised by his parents, whilst striving to also be an exemry older brother to his sister, his eyes showed fierceness like none before as he red at Barkan with even more determination.


    The crowd was shocked once again hearing Marius''s and Little Rose''s words, they gave them odd looks as some couldn''t help but speak in the quiet.


    "This family, so strange."


    "Indeed, I feel that they are all tooid back, Barkan is not the simple warrior, he''s a Minor Squad Captain of the city army after all. They''ve only gone and made him even angrier; I hope that kid can insist, it would be truly a tragedy for a talented boy like that to die."


    While the others spoke amongst themselves, Barkan seemed to have gathered enough power. He actually heard Marius''s words, heughed as his eyes shed with murderous intent when he leaned his body forward and shouted towards Marius''s direction, "Good, I didn''t think I''d see the day when amon family provokes my wrath. When I''m done with your son, I''ll chop your legs and force you to watch as I y with your wife to death!"


    With his shout, Barkan hesitated no longer, his figure moved like a blur causing the wind to make screeching sounds as he rapidly charged towards Grevlin at a speed unfit for his size.


    "He''s going to kill him!"


    "I can''t watch!"


    A few voices sounded as some turned their eyes from the scene, most being women with tender feelings unable to stomach the sight of a child being crushed to bits.


    Marius''s eyes flickered with a cold ray, but he did nothing, he only watched as Grevlin balled up his fist on one of his arms even tighter than the normal. In this instance, a strange scene urred around Grevlin''s smaller frame, seeming as if space itself was shrinking around his fists due to the conjuring force.


    "Oh, it looks like our son has more mettle than I''d imagined," Marius muttered as his lips curved into a smile as he expectantly stared at Grevlin''s hand, Ria''s eyes also shed as both looked only quietly as they awaited his shocking punch.

 Chapter 44: A Monstrous Family

    Chapter 44: A Monstrous Family


    Silence pervaded as all onlookers observed with bated breaths, unable to look away from the exchange between monster and child. It took only a few seconds for the Mantar Barkan to arrive before Grevlin, his eyes showing a fierce look like his lips curved into a savage grin that showed a few of his beast-like teeth.


    "Haha, I''ll break you with my Four Arm Snatcher!" Barkan yelled as he stretched his four muscr arms as hairy as an ape towards Grevlin''s small frame, aiming towards his four limbs.


    "Not good, he''s using that brutal move on a child; how could he be so disgraceful!" One person said as he saw Barkan''s attack.


    "Kya, I can''t look!" A woman said, closing her eyes.


    "Such a shameless bastard; I would really love to kick his ass, but if the father doesn''t care, why should I?" Another person said as he nced at Marius.


    "Your right. That man is nothing but a useless bastard!" Another person said.


    Some in the crowd couldn''t help but close their eyes from the destined scene of the disaster, while others cursed both Barkan for bullying a child and Marius, who was idly watching nearby, for being a worthless father.


    Many began to reel a bundle of insults towards his direction, but as if the father knew his son better, he merely shook his head as the scene soon changed once more.


    Barkan smirked as he felt that things werepletely under his control; his arms were only seconds from grasping Grevlin''s brittle and small looking limbs but right as this was about to happen, his mouth opened wide due to a shocking scene.


    With a kicked of his feet, Grevlin dashed underneath the legs of the towering Barkan, easily slipping below his figure as he slid on the ground before arriving behind him.


    <em>''Crap, this little runt is slippery! Brat, wait until I get my hands on you!''</em> Barkan thought in anger, he was about to try and react from this position, but suddenly, he felt a dangerous intent from behind him.


    The eyes of the strange middle-aged man and Li lit up when they saw the transformation. Their looks turned stern as they saw how Grevlin kept his stance for attacking with his fist tightly clenched, causing the space around it to wave even more due to immense force.


    Suddenly, this force had influenced the surroundings, even the wooden ground beneath Grevlin''s feet began to crack slight as bottles shattered on tables within his vicinity.


    "Big dummy, get lost!" Grevlin''s innocent voice yelled as he took a step forward and punch out with full power, his fist striking towards Barkan''s back.


    <em>''It''s over.''</em>


    Both the middle-aged man and Li thought simultaneously as if instinctively sensing something from behind Grevlin''s arms.


    Marius smiled as Ria pinched his arm while Little Rose looked at Grevlin in excitement; the crowd, however, felt something different, an ominous and dreadful power that seemed to havee from a monster in the flesh.


    "What in Alvaria is this child? He''s only F ss; how can his punch have so much power?" One person said in shock.


    Another person thought for a moment before their eyes showed shock and fear as they eximed, "This... I know what it is; it''s an Innate Divine Talent. This boy has an Innate Divine Talent for strength!"


    When the audience heard this, they all looked at Grevlin with even surprise. Some showed strange looks, each having unusual thoughts. Yet, unlike them, Barkan, who was only moments from meeting this attack, had an entirely different expression, his face sunk as he felt death was approaching at high speeds.


    <em>''Oh no! I made a mistake!''</em> Barkan thought in rm. Being a battle-hardenedbatant in this world, he knew just which moment was considered a life-threatening disaster. Even more so, when he gave his back to a savage predator like none seen before.


    Without even a moment of hesitation, Barkan tensed his entire body up as he rapidly spun around, crossing each of his four arms over. When this happened, his fur and skin began to change as it started to shine as if it turned to iron.


    All took a while to describe, but in fact, this exchange had urred with a few seconds as, by the time Barkan reacted, Grevlin''s punch had smashed into his arms, which guarded his lower torso.


    "Arghh!" With a pitiful wail and a harsh collision sound, no different from an ominous thunderp, Barkan''s husky body flew backward like a rocket that crashed into the walls at the opposing end of the inn.


    A few tables tumbled over hisrge figure that was now blood-soaked as Grevlin''s small arms had not only shattered the bones on his arms, it tore open a savage wound on his flesh while the excess energy from the punch damaged his internal organs.


    Many onlookers made hissing noises as they looked at Barkan, who was now struggling gasping for breath due to his severe injuries; he couldn''t even find the time to express his horror at Grevlin''s move.


    The crowd gulped as they moved their eyes from the defeated onto the small Grevlin that stood in attack posture with one of his arms held before him, the small fist that shattered his foe, having bits of blood on its wrappings used to conceal it as steam emitted from it.


    Looking at Grevlin''s face, one would expect to see a look of awkwardness or even fear, but strangely, the crowd saw a look that made them chill to their bones.


    Grevlin licked his lips as his eyes stared at the broken body of Barkan with a hint of excitement as he spoke, "Aw, so weak, I wanted to y more."


    His character now much different from his usual standard, his even his eyes had a vague blood thirty glint, but this soon faded as he returned to an innocent look with a bit of confusion on his face. Soon, he smiled as he recalled his parents.


    "Mother, father, I won!" Grevlin said, as he now had the normal manner of a child as he ran over towards them; it seemed that his battle with Barkan was nothing more than another ordinary experience.


    Ria rubbed Grevlin''s head as she praised, "Good child, you did well."


    Little Rose clipped her little hands and spoke with a slightly broken speech, "Brother was gud! Brother bweat up the big baddy!"


    It seemed the small girl was thrilled that the older brother had beaten up the big guy.


    Marius smiled and said nothing; he looked at Grevlin and gave a satisfied look as if he was saying, that''s my boy.


    The current scene no different from an ordinary loving family''s exchange. Yet, it was at this point that everyone hade to a collective understanding, as many looked at each with simr eyes as they thought in the same manner, <em>''This is a monstrous family.''</em>

 Chapter 45: Kyle Rayman, The Rose Pickers

    Chapter 45: Kyle Rayman, The Rose Pickers


    As the Fallen Star Inn members were in a state of bewilderment at the previous scene, Marius had brought Ria and his family towards the table to eat, he soon after sat himself down after Ria, and Grevlin had entered their seats around the table.


    Moments after, a waiter came preparing to take their orders, but right at this time, the door of the inn opened with a loud bang as he noticed that a ck-haired slender man in histe twenties had appeared.


    He wore what seemed like a military uniform, being an exquisite armor that had the marking of rose on its breastte, along with a badge with three stripes hanging loosely from the uniform''s cloth around his neck.


    The audience had a surprised look as they stared at this person as they spoke to each other in hushed tones.


    "Hey, isn''t that...?" A woman was about to say something, but her words were cut off by another.


    "That''s right, he''s Kyle Rayman from the town''s army, I didn''t think the rumored master of that brute would appear here. I''ve even heard that he''s recently promoted to the ranks of a Peak ss Three Squad Captain in that Rose Picker Battalion Unit."


    "Che! The Rose Pickers, I really don''t like anyone belonging to their unit, they truly are a shame to the dynasties army."


    As more individuals spoke of the current affairs, the middle-aged man in fine armor that sat around a distant table frowned as he saw Kyle''s appearance. He thought to himself, ''How troubling, I didn''t think even this brat would show up here, I can only hope things will proceed in ordance, otherwise, I might just have a risk my identity and step in to solve it.''


    Not only the middle-aged man, but even Li also didn''t like the looks of things as she innately aborded the name Rose Picker, much less anyone of its core leaders.


    <em>''Oh no, Sir Edgewick might be in some trouble now... should I ask the Inn Master for help?''</em> Li thought to herself, she slowly opened her drawer and took out a small piece of paper but thinking for a bit she didn''t do anything but observed the situation.


    At this time, Kyle looked at Marius deeply before looking at hisrades and pointing towards Barkan and his men as he spoke in amanding tone, "Hurry and pick up that useless pile of shit, he''ll be demoted from his stature as a ss One Squad Captain as someone more suitable will take his role. Also, make sure you clean up this mess, I don''t want his silly blunders messing up our unit''s pride."


    The men that stood behind him nodded their heads as they spoke in unison, "Yes, captain!"


    After finishing their words, they didn''t even waste another moment as they moved towards the unconscious men and Barkan, adeptly cleaning up the mess.


    Kyle nodded in satisfaction as he saw his men''s movements, his attention then shifted from them onto Marius and his family. The crowd gulped as no one said anything, they turned and looked over at the poor family wondering about their current fate, but soon, their eyes widened as they saw a strange scene.


    "Yes, other than the side drinks and water, I''d like to try the Braised Ember Pig with a side of Star Dust Bread, my wife would like the Deep-Fried Ice Unicorn while my son would prefer the Curry for the Infernal Goat. Ah, and for my lovely daughter, I would like an order of that Fragrant Rose Pie."


    Marius said as he finally handed over the bundle of menus to the waiter before them, Little Rose upon hearing Marius''s words, pped her small hands and shouted in joy, "Yay! Yay! I get to eat Pie!"


    Ria made sure to hold her properly on herp, so she didn''t fall down due to her excessive movement as she spoke to her, "Hehe, is my little girl happy?"


    Little Rose looked up at her mother and made an adorable smile with herrge innocent eyes curving as she held her shirt cors with her tiny fingers and uttered, "Mm."


    Ria felt like she was about to melt at this scene, even the waiter had momentarily forgotten than he had he menus as he couldn''t but mutter, "Aw, how cute?"


    "That''s right, my daughter is the cutest," Marius added as if it was a matter of fact.


    The waiter chuckled at this before he put away the menus and bowed as he spoke, "Sir Edgewick is a man of great prospects, your family is truly no inferior to any kings, I shall excuse myself, your meals will be out shortly."


    Marius gave the waiter a good look before nodding as he saw the waiter off, he then shifted his attention onto Ria, who yed with his adorable daughter before he nced at Grevlin who seemed to be staring at his wrapped up arms within his binders.


    Marius about to say something, but right at this instance, he felt that he was being stared at by quite a few persons, even more so from the entrance as he could distinctly sense a strong amount of animosity.


    Kyle had an indifferent look on his face but if one looked at the pulsing veins on his forehead one could easily infer his anger. After a short while, Kyle seemed to have returned to normal as his anger seemed to vanish as he took calm steps towards Marius''s table before halting a few feet away.


    Marius then lifted his head and stared at the stranger in a cool manner, as Kyle swept his eyes across the table, staring at Ria for a bit before looking at Grevlin for the longest as he once more fixed his attention onto Marius. A smile soon after rose from the corners of his lips as he spoke in a simple tone.


    "I can tell that you''re not from these parts, you''ve got such a fine family, a beautiful wife, adorable daughter, and even more so talented son. It''s likely that your son could have grown to be one of the strongest warriors in this world, but it''s a pity, for you do not know what he''s done."


    Marius hearing this chuckled as he stared at Kyle and answered, "Oh, he did something wrong. Please, teach me of his wrongdoings."


    Kyle took no offense to Marius''s words as he drew a chair from nearby, spinning it around as he sat on it and spoke with a smile, "Why, of course, I will, but I''m afraid at the end of our discussion, you won''t like the results."


    When Kyle said this, the room once more grew colder as a brand-new scene was about to unfold.


    ______


    Author''s Note:


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 Chapter 46: Kyles Threat, Stating Ones Backer

    Chapter 46: Kyle''s Threat, Stating One''s Backer


    Kyle was a man from a high lineage within Ivanov''s city; his life had been smooth sailing ever since he was born and had been identified as crucial family talent, eventually leading to his sessful recruitment and rise as a Peak ss Three Squad Captain.


    For this very same reason, few would dare to offend him, even more so after learning of his most entertaining hobbies to capture beautiful women, a habit trained only after joining the infamous Rose Picker Battalion.


    Marius felt the tension in the air and saw the looks of disgust on some of the women''s faces when they stared at Kyle''s back. He had already inferred the necessary information needed for the man that arrogantly sat before him and his family. Still, as if he didn''t care, he merely smirked and awaited him to speak.


    Kyle took note of Marius''s indifference, but he didn''t take any offense to it as he was a proud man. One of his most fun hobbies was to break down a foe mentally before finishing him by letting him live a life no worse than a living hell. He would then take his wife and children and transform their lives into utter chaos.


    When he thought of the following scenes, even more so as he could see the Ria''s fine temperament at Marius''s side, he couldn''t help but feel a tinge of excitement in his heart. Not daring to waste another moment, he calmed himself and began to exin the trouble that had befallen Marius.


    "While I would like to tell you that everything will be alright, I''m sorry to say that your son has made the biggest mistake of his entire life, pal. Do you see this symbol on my armor, the pattern of the rose? It signifies the connection to a battle of the dynasty''s army. While my subordinate might have only been a ss One Squad Captain, he was directly under my charge as I myself am a ss Three Squad Captain. The army has many rules, but the most important ones are never to have anyone offend its dignity, by showing force to those of battalion, even if it were an ordinary soldier, you have done nothing but brought a disaster upon yourself."


    Marius made a curious look as he spoke in a calm tone, "Oh, if it''s like that, then it would seem my son has brought quite the danger upon us, but it''s odd; why are you telling me this? Shouldn''t your job as an army elite be to enforce punishment on us infringers?"


    The audience shook their heads at Marius''s words, wondering if he lost his mind; he should have known what Kyle was trying to lead the conversation towards.


    <em>''This handsome mister, what''s he relying on?''</em> Li thought as she stared at Marius intently, noticing hisposure, even the middle-aged man from the other table had a pensive look.


    Kyle didn''t seem to mind Marius''s directness; he smirked and spoke in reply, "You''re quite direct, that''s good; I also like wrapping things up quickly. Of course, you are correct in your statement as that''s how it should have been, but I''m feeling a tad bit generous today, rather than taking you to an execution tform. I want to offer you and your family a way out. The price will be simple, so long as your wife bes my partner and your and son chop of a single limb, I will be generous enough to no longer press any charges against you in the military name. However, if you refuse to do so, then I''ll have to ask you to contact your backer right now, for they are the only way you''ll be able to escape with some charges."


    When Kyle said those words, his eyes shed with a hint of fierceness despite his calm manner as he thought inwardly,<em> ''Hmph! Since you''re so calm, I want to take a look at what choice you''ll make; even if you have a hidden backer, there''s nothing you can do to get off unscratchedpletely! Hehe I have plenty of ways to get around most third parties.''</em>


    Many others also understood Kyle''s meaning, and they looked at the scene with cold eyes; they knew that Marius and the family''s fate now depended on his following words. The room so silent as many began to sweat down their cheeks, but as for the person in question. He merely remained calm as he smiled and looked at Kyle.


    Kyle frowned as he saw his look, but Marius soon after opened his mouth and spoke, "I''ve heard rumors about toads that lust after swan meat, but this is my first time seeing one up close. Even more so, one with such poor backbone that it can only use silly and indirect means. Listen closely, although we''re not from around these parts, not just anyone can provoke my family and live to see the tale, so heed my words carefully, know when to back down."


    Kyle narrowed his eyes at this and spoke, "Hmm, then, should I take this a sign that you''re willing to provoke the army?"


    Marius chuckled at this, he was about to say something, but as if he recalled something, a sly smile came across his face causing Ria to give him a suspicious look.


    He then spoke again, "Ah, now that you mention it, I do recall being escorted here by a mighty family. Our rtionship was also quite deep; if you are looking for answers regarding this matter, then you might want to take it up with them, the Wilborn''s."


    When many heard this, their mouths went wide as amotion soon after started in the inn.


    "What? The Wilborn''s, they don''t mean one of the core merchant families who even got a major hold on a business such as Centuarian Coach Firm?"


    "No wonder there so confident, they''ve got some connections, but they should already know, it wouldn''t be enough for someone like Kyle Rayman."


    Many began to chatter at the current revtion as no one expected this result, even Kyle himself, who had a pensive look as he thought that the matter had turned a little bit moreplex.

 Chapter 47: A Powerful Backer, Repelling Kyle

    Chapter 47: A Powerful Backer, Repelling Kyle


    But as for Ria, she made a slight snicker as she looked at Marius lovingly while sending him a message directly to his mind, "Hehe, my husband, you truly are an evil fellow."


    Marius had a faint smile as he replied mentally, "Ha, of course I am; you love me that way, don''t you, Ria."


    Ria''s eyes beamed in a radiant ray as she poked his side under the table and licked her lips while replying, "Always"


    Marius felt a fire burning, but he knew this wasn''t the time for their antics. He mockingly nced at Kyle while speaking with his wife once more, "Huhu see, that bastard deserves it. Since he wanted to take a chance at you, he should be grateful that I didn''t kill him directly; from now on, he must be ready to share our ups and downs."


    "Hehe I can already see the look on his face."


    Ria sent back with a teasing look on her face; Marius smiled while trying to keep a poker face as the two continued to converse and flirt with each other idly. Grevlin and Little Rose stills seemed a bit bored; they soon started to y a little game with each other.


    As the family continued to carry an idle air, many looked at them with strange looks, but if one paid closer attention to these onlookers, they would notice that their eyes shed with a hint ofplication.


    Unlike them, Kyle only had a slight moment of conflict before he returned to normal. The Wilborn''s were influential in Ivanov, but his n was still a few levels higher than them; they wouldn''t be able to do anything if he were to push the right cards.


    With a sly smirk, Kyle stared at Marius and his family as he spoke in a threatening tone, "The Wilborn''s are not a bad background, but I''m sorry to say they just aren''t up to the standard to keep you from suffering military action. Huhu my dear stranger, it would look like your luck has a run dry, from this point onwards, I will"


    Marius made an odd look as he heard Kyle''s words; he frowned, not liking the fact that a person he viewed as insignificant was still yapping away before him despite his prior statement. He was about to act more seriously, but before that could happen, there was a change.


    "Then what if you add me?" A deep voice said, followed by the footstep of a figure in armor.


    Looking closely, one would notice that the person who spoke was none other than the strange middle-aged man that had been eyeing Marius''s family since the previous night. The crowd looked over and stared at the person carefully before their eyes widened in shock.


    "That... isn''t that Seth Vurlock?" One person eximed in surprise.


    "You''re definitely right, for one of the two Superior Instructors of the Royal Branch Academy to be here at this hour, it makes me wonder?"


    Another voice said in surprise.


    "That''s nothing new; I''ve heard rumors that said the empire crowned him as a Lesser Knight from his former Troop Commander rank, but because of some incident, he was demoted and sent back here."Someone else said with a deep look on their face; the others also showed pensive looks as they felt it to be a surprise.


    Much like everyone else, Kyle had a surprised look when he saw Seth make an appearance. His face turned stern as he thought to himself, <em>''st! Why is this bastard here of all ces? Are you telling me a famous Ex Knight such as himself is going to meddle in this affair?''</em>


    Kyle was currently in a moment of distress as he didn''t think someone of this standard would climb out of nowhere; the audience also thought the same as they felt that the matter with Marius and his family wouldn''t be so easy to pursue anymore.


    Li, who had been nning on helping out, heaved a sigh of relief as she nced towards Seth and muttered, "Oh, so Mr. Vurlock has taken an interest in them; it looks like I won''t need to trouble the Inn Master."


    Marius and Ria made a curious look when they saw the stranger took action; they nced at each other in silence but said nothing in the end; they merely wanted to watch as the scene yed out. However, a new matter had taken their attention.


    The waiter had now returned with a few tes of food, and as if he didn''t care about the current scene, or even Kyle himself, he had started to ce down different tes with their condiments before Marius''s family. Not bothering to attend anything else, Marius, Ria, Little Rose, and Grevlin promptly focused on their meal.


    "Ah, yummy-yummy food!" Little Rose said in joy as she shook her small hands up and down.


    Grevlin also licked his lips when he saw the rich colored and vorful tes before them, Ria had a bright look in her eyes as Marius smirked and spoke, "Alright everyone, lets dig in."


    "Yay!" Little Rose said as she began to try and stuff her face, but Ria hurriedly broke off a small piece of meat and ced it in her arms.


    Grevlin also started his first battle in a long time, he strugglingly held onto the special fork that he had gotten from the Mountain Ax Senior, using his utmost care not to break them as he fed himself.


    At this time, while the family had their peaceful meal, the tension had reached its turning point as everyone watched the scene between Kyle and Seth; they were waiting to see what the response would result in the end.


    Both stared into each other''s eyes in silence for a good while, as Kyle had a struggling look until his eyes flickered before he sighed helplessly. He rose to his feet and made a slight salute towards Seth, and spoke, "Squad Captain Rayman sincerely greets Sir Vurlock. Please, let me apologize for my prior blunder. Since you are willing to shield them, then, for now, I shall no longer press today''s matter."


    Kyle, who felt he had lost face with those words aid, didn''t dare to dally for too long. He hurriedly walked towards the entrance, his men following behind him as they hauled away Barken''s husky body along with hisrades.


    However, while walking, Kyle didn''t forget to shoot Marius a cold look; he noticed that they weren''t even paying attention to him and were now idly eating. His eyes shed with killing intent, but he kept it suppressed and only focused on the door ahead while his thoughts echoed.


    <em>''I can''t touch you for now because of that bastard, but as for those darn Wilborn''s, humph! I won''t let them have it easy.''</em>


    Kyle''s figure soon vanished from the inn with those dark thoughts in kind, when he left, the inn soon regained its former stability.


    Many persons heaved a sigh of relief as they saw Kyle repelled, even more so for the various women in the inn. Some cast grateful looks towards Marius''s family, but as they saw them eating, they couldn''t help but show awkward looks thinking that this family was just too brazen.


    Unlike the others, Seth, who had spoken for them, merely smiled as he thought, <em>''Heh, truly a good bunch.''</em>


    Without thinking anything else, he walked over to them, prepared to engage in conversation.

 Chapter 48: Seths Proposal

    Chapter 48: Seth''s Proposal


    The mood had long since returned to normal within the Fallen Star Inn as most persons continued to mind their own business now that the earlier excitement had died down. Other than those who sat and ate, others mostly left to handle their daily activities.


    Currently, some had cast their sights onto a strange scene, one in which a famous EX Troop Commander had personally sat himself down in a patient manner as he calmly waited for a family to finish their meal.


    "Yummy! It tastes good!"


    Little Rose said in excitement as she got up from her mother''sp, threatening to jump up and down as she ate her Fragrant Rose Pie in small bites.


    Ria wiped her mouth corners with each bite she took, trying to keep her as clean as possible around the table; it seemed she had a thing for cleanliness as she didn''t let off even the tiniest bit of crumbs.


    Unlike his little sister, however, Grevlin had a calm and professional manner, though he hadn''t had many chances to eat by himself without being fed by his father or mother. He seemed to have finallye to terms with using his reinforced tableware.


    Marius smiled with satisfaction as he saw his family eat; he had already finished his portion and was only waiting on them now. However, he didn''t rush them but enjoyed the sight.


    Suddenly, Marius turned his attention to the side, finally giving notice to Seth, who was calmly waiting on them. His eyes flickered as he had almost forgotten about him, but trying not to let his thoughts be known, Marius spoke with a little more friendly tone whenpared with his speech against Kyle.


    "You have been quite patient, even willing to wait so long. Should I assume that you''vee here to discuss something?"


    Seth''s eyes shed as he heard Marius''s words; he looked at him and spoke in reply, "Sir Edgewick is correct; I''ve noticed your family fromst night and have been waiting here to have a good chat with you. So, what do you say? Care for a little discussion?"


    Marius gave Seth an in-depth look as he contemted, <em>''Oh, so he knows my name; it seems he must have been listening to my talk with Li. I''m curious, just who is he, and what does he want? His presence doesn''t seem inferior to that Tyrant Ice Wyrm.''</em>


    When Marius thought to here, his eyes shone when he used his sense skill, seeing a surging amount of bottled up mystical power within him. Feeling curious, he couldn''t help but send to themand to inspect Seth''s details, causing his information to show up before his eyes.


    ____


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Seth Vurlock]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 33 | Age: 35]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Artiman | <strong>Status</strong>: Severely Weakened]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: 1 Star D Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: E | <strong>Strength</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: D | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: D]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: D]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: Darkness Sutra]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Shadowform | Level 6]


    [<strong>Learnt Skills</strong>: Scan, Higher Guard, Alvaria Royal Sword Arts, Shadow Sword]


    ____


    <em>''He''s strong; even if I were to fight him, I probably wouldn''t be able to defeat him... not unless I risk it all, in that case, we''d probably end up with grave wounds. Since he has strength like this, then even though weakened, it''s likely that he''s at the topmost levels of this entire city.''</em>


    Marius thought as saw Seth''s details, he couldn''t help but feel a trace of surprise, but after settling down his thoughts, he gave Seth a good look as he spoke.


    "Of course not, but I''m curious, for a figure like yourself to have an interest in my small family, I can only wonder what''s your intention Mr. Vurlock."


    When Seth heard his name, he gave Marius a deep look but soon thought nothing much of it; he felt that Marius must have learned it from the others, be it through their whisperings or maybe him having prior knowledge.


    Seth smiled and spoke straight to the point, "Haha, Sir Edgewick is well informed; then, I''ll cut to the chase. As you already knew, my name is Seth Vurlock, and I am one of the Superior Instructors for Ivanov''s Royal Branch Academy. I hade here to take a short break from work, but I never expected to find such an interesting family like yours, Sir Edgewick. More particrly, your son, he has a talent rarely seen across thesends, and I believe that so long as he has the right guidance and proper instructors, he would grow to be a mighty expert. I want to use my special authority to grant him passage to the academy as my student; he would forgo the standard test required for a normal student and could begin as early as in the next three days; what do you think?"


    When Marius heard this, his face had a trace of surprise, even Ria, who had been listening while taking care of Little Rose, looked over with interest.


    Marius felt a bit troubled; though he wanted to send Grevlin to school, he also didn''t want to send him off with just anybody. He made a thoughtful look before ncing at Ria.


    Ria seemed to have known his thoughts; she gave him a soft smile, showing eyes filled with support as if she was implying, she would ept any choice he made.


    Marius sighed, thinking that Ria was a bit too easy-going. It was times like these he was expecting her to behave like a typical mother on earth; the kind that was ready to stir conflict regarding her son to prolong the affair of him leaving or not through lengthy discussion.


    It was a pity, for Ria was not human or artiman; she was hellian; even if a bit mellowed out due to her marriage with Marius, her true nature will forever remain the same, even more so for her standards of upbringing.


    Marius inwardly sighed at this and stared at Seth as he spoke, "Sir Seth, your offer though good is a bit sudden. I think I''ll need some time to think it over."


    Seth nodded at this as it was the normal reaction of any parent; he rose from his seat and ced a token before Marius as he spoke, "No problem, I''ll leave this token with you. Once you''ve made up your mind, you cane to visit me at the academy; simply show them this token, and they''ll let you through. Do have a wonderful day now, Sir Edgewick."


    As Seth said this, he gave Marius a look before bowing to Ria and the others before leaving the inn. Marius looked at his back for a short while before turning away with an interested light in his eyes as he thought to himself, <em>''It looks like this city might be more-fascinating than I''d thought...''</em>

 Chapter 49: Touring the Streets

    Chapter 49: Touring the Streets


    After wrapping up their breakfast, Marius then prepared to leave the Fallen Star Inn as he wanted to explore the town a bit with his family. He was about to head out with Ria and his children, but as if Li caught their movements, she hurriedly ran over and spoke.


    "Hey, do you guys want to tour the city? How about I join you?"


    When Marius heard this, he thought it was a good idea, turning to stare at her lively little figure hurrying about unaware of her ample chest bouncing up and down, drawing a few lustful eyes from ''seasoned'' spectators.


    Naturally, Marius wasn''t too affected by this, as his wife Ria was ungodly beautiful. Sadly, for Marius, even if it didn''t matter to him, Ria was overly passionate and easily jealous.


    "Husband, we don''t need her help."


    Ria said in a chilly tone, not speaking anything more; her mood was not the friendly kind.


    Marius sighed knowing full well of her thoughts; he made a regretful look which quickly recovered as Ria keenly inspected his mood. Without wasting a second, he nced at Li and replied.


    "It''s okay, Li, we are fine by ourselves; my wife and I want to enjoy this atmosphere."


    Li, who hade over, gave them a good look before she smirked with an understanding look on her face as she replied, "Ah, I see, okay then please do have fun."


    Following her words, Li then turned away and returned to her post; Marius had a hint of disappointment on his face. He really would have preferred someone guiding them rather than them fumbling around by themselves, but sadly, his jealous wife wouldn''t have it.


    "Hmm, husband, what''s with that look? Is that disappointment I''m seeing?"


    Ria asked with a slightly cold tone.


    Marius chuckled, and he replied, "My dear Ria, you''re imagining things, nowe, let us go and tour the town; we can have fun while thinking over that man''s offer. Plus, I also need to see what we can do here in this world for a living; if we''re sending Grevlin off to school, we''ll need to at least have something to carry us by."


    Ria snorted; she knew her hell senses well, and they never failed her when picking up on certain emotions, but as Marius didn''t want to go into it, she decided to let it go.


    Following their short scuffle, the family then left the inn, and took the streets, bypassing the human-like and non-human crowds, carriages, and others riding beast mounts as they walked by the variety of buildings, noticing that they weremerce-rted.


    All kinds of products and specialties were being sold, stores from famous business families, down to rising rookie merchants and even retiredbatants who used to adventure to dangerous sectors of Valoria.


    When they moved about, a few passerby''s couldn''t help but gaze at them with various looks, the women having fixed stares on Marius''s face, while the young men showed looks of fascination upon seeing a beauty like Ria.


    ''Wow, such a handsome man, it''s a pity that a skank like that has taken him!"


    A jealous woman reeled as she stared at Marius and Ria.


    "That bastard, how did he get such a good-looking wife? Look at those kids; I can''t imagine how much work he must have put in to breed such of fine quality, che! Lucky son of a gun!"


    A jealous man said as he stared at Marius with envy.


    Though they heard their words, Marius and Ria paid them no mind; they merely continued about their business, idly observing the different structures.


    Marius looked at the business he saw the Wilborn''s entered, the same Centuarian Coach Firm, crowded with many different coaches, wanderers, and locals. However, he only looked at this once before turning his attention elsewhere.


    "Look! Look! So pretty! I want it!"


    Little Rose said happily, mounted in her mother''s slender arms, she pointed across the world as if dering everything in her sight as her property.


    Marius didn''t mind giving his small dictator anything she wished, but as he nced at the target of her interest, he couldn''t help but feel a bit awkward upon noticing that it was arge cute doll made of some kind of fuzzy material, embodying the shape of some round and fluffy rabbit-like lifeform.


    An adorable girl was currently pulling the doll in thepany of her loving family, the picture seemingly no different from an innocent family touring the city much like themselves.


    Marius felt a bit awkward as he couldn''t just go over and take her doll; he stared at his daughter and spoke, "My darling, you can''t have that one. Papa will find you a better one."


    Little Rose though the smart girl was still quite young, she looked at Marius with reddish eyes as if she was about to break down into tears as she spoke, "But dadda, I... I want."


    When Marius saw this, even he felt like crying, the mellowing effect of Little Rose was just too much for even his hardened heart to bear.


    Ria seeing this frowned; she didn''t like it when her daughter didn''t it get her way. She stared at the little girl''s family with a dark look in her eyes as she spoke, "I don''t see what''s the problem; we can just take it after we annihte them."


    Marius facepalmed as he thought to himself, <em>''And so, she''s finally started up with this side again...''</em>


    Very much like her daughter, Ria was a dictator herself; even if normally she would act in a humble and condensing manner, it was merely because of her love for her family and she wanting them to have an enjoyable andfortable life.


    Marius himself was no kind soul, he also nced at the family with a contemting look, pondering how to act. But as if he saw Little Rose superimposed with the child, he shook his head and spoke with a firm look on his face, "No means no."


    Ria looked at Marius in surprise; while Little Rose stared at her father with leaking eyes, she cried in her mother''s bosom, causing Ria to sigh as she red at Marius and tried to coax her.


    Marius sighed at this, but he knew that this was the only choice he had. He didn''t want to resort to his old methods here; even if he didn''t care about his rep, he didn''t want that kind of stain on their current family image.


    A short while passed, and Grevlin seemed to be fiddling with a strange box, Marius was a bit curious, but at this moment, Ria, who seemed to have finished coaxing Little Rose, couldn''t help but stare at a building with shining eyes.


    Noticing a few mourous clothing from behind it, like an excited little girl, she pointed her hand forward and spoke, "Husband look, there''s a ce with dresses, we must hurry and take a look!"


    Little Rose was also a fan of pretty clothes; she pointed forward like her mother and spoke with a slightly broken speech, "Yay, so pretty! Mother, I want to look like a fairy!"


    Marius saw the two of their reactions and sighed; he nced at his remaining amount of Krills and shook his head while thinking to himself.


    <em>''I suppose this is a pain of both a husband and a father.''</em>


    Following this, Marius was pulled by the two dictators towards a crueler ce for any man, as Grevlin followed behind, a bit distracted.


    ****


    Sorry, it''s been a while, at this time I''m flowing between a mix of good and bad health, trying to fully recover, I shall post as often as I possibly can, and once again I thank all of you who continue to support the story. I hope you all had a good day, please do keep healthy and stay safe. Here is thetest chappy, have a great reading :)

 Chapter 50: The Plight of Man, Grevlins Strange Box

    Chapter 50: The Plight of Man, Grevlin''s Strange Box


    "So pwretty, Mama, look!"


    "Yes, it makes my little girl looks just like a princess!"


    "Hehe, Mama is just like a fwiary!


    The pleasant sounds of mother and daughter sounded throughout a busy clothing store, filling its already lively scene with even more life as passing shoppers, be it, locals or travelers, looked at them with warm smiles.


    Most females who shared simr sentiments when it came to shopping for clothes stared at the gorgeous mother and adorable daughter not with envy but affection, some nudging the shoulders of their partners as if urging them to get serious and give them children.


    In this ce, only women could find happiness, for men had a different expression, a beaten-down look filled with exhaustion as they held ontorge bags of clothing with sour faces.


    Marius heaved a deep sigh as he held onto a singlerge bag of his own while sitting down at a nearby corner with Grevlin, his eyes staring at Ria, who hurried up and down with Little Rose as if they were having a pic in the shop.


    Suddenly, an exhausted sigh sounded from his opposing side. He looked over and saw an extremely frail-looking man in histe thirties, his eyes having dark spots as if he was well-rested.


    On hisp were too little lively children that jumped up and down as his wife, who walked with two grown daughters, pulled over bags that were evenrge than himself.


    Despite being a hard bred assassin for a long period of his life, Marius felt like crying when he saw the man''s circumstances; the man picked up on Marius''s gaze, giving him a deep look of understanding and experience.


    Marius wanted to say something, but as if the man''s fate had arrived, the voices of the man''s wife and daughters sounded across the area.


    "Honey, we''re done here, let''s go; we can''t miss out on the next shop, after all, who knows when we''ll visit here again!"


    "Father, here, these are thest items from this shop!"


    Not only Marius, many other males also calmly observed the man with pity, even more so when they saw the heavy load that he had to bring.


    However, as if the man was long since used to it, he didn''t show fear or cowardice; his eyes had an in-depth look like an elder teaching the other males. He rose to his feet, ensuring not to group the town children, which held firmly with his elbows.


    After doing this, he then grabbed all of the bags from his wife and daughters, such to the extent that it seemed that he wouldn''t even be able to move an inch with that load.


    His wife and daughters didn''t even wait on him but hurried onwards, expecting him to follow at their pace. The men looked at this in pity; some even gritted their teeth as if they could feel the pain.


    Nevertheless, the man seemed to take no regard to their treatment; he lifted his head as if summoning power from the unknown, with a silent cry resonant only to man, he found it, he found power.


    His muscles on his thin arms, legs, and torso bulged as his calm face pulsed with veins before returning to normal. In this instance, the man no longer seemed meek, but mighty, as he easily hoisted the bags, giving all of the men a good look before walking off into the distance, seeming no different from a hero fighting a lone war.


    After watching the hero leave, Marius felt a feeling he hadn''t felt for much in the world, respect that few could ever describe with words. He sighed, not overthinking it; he was grateful that he wouldn''t have to worry about such a dangerous fate thanks to his family''s size.


    Speaking of family, Marius nced at Grevlin, who he noticed was still a bit distracted, ying with a strange box that had question marks.


    <em>''Hmm, when did he get this?''</em>


    Marius thought as he stared at the box; he looked at Grevlin and spoke, "Son, what''s that you got there?"


    Grevlin poked the box once more before he looked at his father and lifted it towards him while speaking, "Father, I get this from defeating that big lug, but I can''t open it."


    When Marius heard this, his eyes lit up when he spoke in an excited tone, "You said you got this from defeating that Mantar!"


    Grevlin made a slightly embarrassed facial expression as he replied with a nod, "Mn."


    "Good! My son has finally received his first mission!"


    Marius said excitedly, drawing a few eyes from others, but as no one knew what mission meant, they didn''t pay him any mind.


    Grevlin felt ashamed of his father''s manner; he saw some people pointing at them and wanted to hide. However, Marius didn''t care about such things, he took the box from Grevlin''s hand, causing him to look over curiously as he inspected it.


    <em>''I wonder if father will find anything?''</em>


    Grevlin thought while staring hopefully at his father, who had a pensive expression on his face while inspecting the box from all angles. It was a ck box with question signs and strange markings, edge on certain areas with a series of square-like shapes like a Rubix Cube.


    Marius frowned as he thought to himself, ''<em>Odd, I sense nothing from it, no energy, there isn''t even an opening. Let''s see what the [System] has to say about it. Inspect!''</em>


    Following hismand, Marius, who hopefully stared at the cube, waited for a while, but there were no changes.


    <em>''What the heck? I said in inspect!''</em>


    Marius shouted in his mind, using even more of his focus on the box; he stared at it for a good while longer, until finally, the box shivered slightly before a notification sounded in his mind.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Item is beyond your ss, no further details will be shown!]


    [Eternal Dark Rubix]


    [???]


    [???]


    ____


    When he saw the details, Marius face sunk as he didn''t think such a thing would ur; he stared at it intensely as he alternated his look between Grevlin and the box while he thought to himself.


    <em>''It looks like my son has gotten his very own special treasure.''</em>


    The scene here carried a strange mood as he handed the box back to Grevlin and spoke, "Son, take care of it; I''m sure that someday it will be of great help to you."


    Grevlin stared at his father deeply, he wanted to ask more, but as his father looked away, he shifted his attention to the box, noticing that it shone with a strange light for an instant before returning to normal.


    As he saw that change, Grevlin knew that the box in his hand was far more than anything he could have ever imagined. He ced it away with a surge of hope of expectation...


    ______


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 Chapter 51: Vawns Anger, Mariuss Decision

    Chapter 51: Vawn''s Anger, Marius''s Decision


    As Marius and his family toured the town, within a private manor associated with the Centurion Coach Firm, Vawn sat around a desk with a sour look on his face, even more so when he stared at the thick stack of papers with red highlights over different text.


    Two fine beautiful looking women stood at his sides as they fanned his face with a decorated fan, both having a lustful appearance as could be seen by their scanty attire.


    Usually, Vawn would have been indulging himself in some spectacr activities for stress relief, but sadly, he was too angered at the documents ced before him.


    <em>''That sted Brav and those darn pests, to think they even went as far as to infringe upon a few of the family''s businesses, it looks like even my power within the firm has dropped significantly.''</em>


    Vawn inwardly cursed as he mmed his hand against the desk, his manner now one of utmost danger. He took a deep breath to calm down before his mood returned to normal as he put down the papers and made a pensive expression.


    "Tsk, no matter, I suppose that even if they prevent the functions of a few businesses, it''s nothingpared to those we still have in varieties cities. Our family''s influence within the Centurion Coach Firm might have taken a nosedive, but we still have a majority of its assets under our control."


    As Vawn said this, his mood soon turned for the better; he nced at the two beauties at his side and made a gesture with his finger. The two women showed seductive smiles as they put away the fans and sat on hisp.


    Vawn''s eyes lit up as he recalled the scene from yesterday, the beautiful visage of Ria; feeling a fire deep in his chest, he was about to unload his zing spirit onto the two women. Still, sadly for him, there was an interruption.


    With a loud <em>''bang,''</em> the door for the room opened as a man ran inside with a flurried expression as he spoke.


    "S-S-Sir Wilborn, we have a problem!"


    Vawn frowned as he didn''t expect to be disrupted at such a critical time. He looked at the two women and waved his hand; the two women made disappointed looks as they left in a hurry.


    Vawn then shifted his attention onto the man and spoke in an icy tone, "This better be important..."


    The man gulped as he saw Vawn''s sharp-looking eyes; he wiped the sweat from his forehead and pped his cheeks with his palms to calmed down before he spoke again.


    "Yes, sir, it is imperative. We''ve received words just now that a terrifying party has started to suppress all of our business. After a bit of research, we''ve found that the party was non-other than the famous Rayman family associated with even a battalion from the royal military."


    Vawn was shocked to hear those words; he jumped up from his sitting posture, causing his fat belly to be wiggle about as he strugglingly bnced himself on the feet while speaking in an angry voice.


    "WHAT? Do you mean those Rayman''s? How could this happen? Which generation from our family has even gone to offend such a family? Tell me everything you know!"


    The man hurried nodded and replied, "I-It''s like this..."


    When the man started to speak, Vawn''s face turned from an expression of anger to surprise, rm, worry, and then once more anger. After the man finished speaking, he hurriedly left the room, not daring to stay another moment in front of Vawn, whose forehead was pulsing with his veins.


    "That son of a bitch! How dare he set me up? That darn little family, darn little whore! Just you all wait, I''ll certainly let them all pay for this!"


    Vawn shouted in rage to vent his anger after learning of Marius''s plot; only after a long venting of violent words did he finally calm himself down. He took a deep breath and walked towards the window, gazing out at the bright and clear blue skies with a deep look on his face.


    <em>''Damnit! With so much going on from those bastards, along with the addition of the Rayman''s. It looks like I only have a few choices. Since our business won''t be able to withstand this kind of suppression, then thest and final option is to hope for Jae''s sessful apprenticeship to that man. Yes, that man, so long as Jae can be his student, then with his talents, he will have a great chance of bing a knight; if he can join the Royal Knight Brigade, what would I have to worry about oppression from anyone? Hmph! Soon, I''ll be able to let them all pay for their transgressions...''</em>


    When Vawn''s thoughts reached here, he couldn''t help but make a cruel smile as if he could already see the glorious future ahead of him. While Vawn stared off into the distance, unaware of him, Jae stood at a nearby corner, looking at his back with a set of determined eyes; he balled up his fists tightly as his eyes flickered with menace as if he made a great decision at the core of his mind.


    ***


    Time passed quickly, and Ria had already finished her shopping with Little Rose; after forcing Marius to carry all of their load, they then hurried off to get something to eat for lunch.


    While eating within a lively park, the family sat down on top of a nket as if on a pic, taking in the surroundings'' sights as they enjoyed the rare peace.


    Marius''s eyes shed as he saw a few sturdy men with fit women moving about with armor and different gear; there was even a strange man that held a staff garbed like some wizard.


    When he looked at them, he couldn''t help but notice that they each wore a simr-looking wristband; he spoke out loud, "I wonder, are these persons what they call the Seekers?"


    Ria, who was ying with Little Rose, nced at him and spoke, "That''s right, dear, they are akin to those adventures you''ve seen in those video games."


    When Marius heard this, a trace of excitement showed on his face when he spoke, "Hmm, do they get paid well?"


    Ria thought for a moment before she replied, "I''m not sure, I''ve only heard about them from my family, but I suppose as they partake in missions offered by the Seeker Faction, there should be some kind of reward. Hmm, my dear husband, are you thinking of working as a Seeker for a job?"


    Marius scratched the back of his head and replied, "Haha, yeah, but you know me, I''ve never been able to hold one steady job; I might just flunk out again..."


    Ria giggled as she spoke, "Awe now, even if you''re not good at anything else, you can still do this kind of chores; I think you might be a good fit."


    Marius smiled as he heard those words; he no longer felt so embarrassed as he thought that if its hunting savage beasts or killing targets, he would be able to do so with ease.


    Ria smirked, seeing his confident look; she already knows his thoughts but didn''t say anything. She thought for a bit before ncing at the idle Grevlin and looking at her husband as she spoke, "Have you made up your mind about Grevlin going to school?"


    Marius paused for a bit with a deep look on his face as he took at the token given to him by Seth; he smirked then answered, "You know, the moment he gave me this thing, I had already decided. I only wanted to see his intention. Besides, after exploring today, we''ve already learned just how credible that school actually is and even bits about his bravery. It should be fine to settle here for now..."


    "Good, we can visit before we return to the inn," Ria added with a smile.


    After saying her piece, Ria no longer paid Marius any mind; her attention focused on what Little Rose was doing. Curiously, the small girl seemed to have found a new activity; her tiny arms moved up and down as she ced a few gem-like beads onto Little ck and Little White''s bodies.


    Grevlin looked at his sister''s antics with a curious look; when he saw Little ck staring at him with pleading eyes, he remained calm and indifferent as if only his sister''s joy was worthy of any fluctuation.


    "There-there! Now bwetter! Mamma, look at my twigers, aren''t they prwetty!"


    Little Rose said that as she finnaly finished her handiwork, her small face showed a satisfied look as if she was ready to ept praise.


    Ria naturally didn''t miss her chance as she feigned surprise as she reacted to her daughter''s work.


    "Oh, wow, such pretty tigers indeed, my Little Rose is talented!"


    "Hehe!"


    Little Rose giggled in satisfaction; she then turned her attention to Marius, who reached his hand over, poked her rounded cheek as he spoke in a praising tone.


    "That''s my good daughter."


    Little Rose felt even happier at those words; Grevlin looked at this with a faint smile before he shifted his sights towards the distance, his current thoughts unknown to anyone around him.


    Marius soon took a look at the sky, noticing the time nearing thete after hours; he then looked at everyone and spoke, "Okay guys, let''s get a move on; we need to visit one more ce before we head back home."


    "Okay!" Ria, Little Rose, and Grevlin said in unison.


    Marius chuckled at their reply, which was much like some kind of sports team; he then started to put away the things before leaving with his family towards a different sector of Ivanov, one that was famed for its rise of famousbatants.

 Chapter 52: The Heros District, A Strange Father and Son

    Chapter 52: The Hero''s District, A Strange Father and Son


    The Hero''s District, the rumored area, famed across Ivanov''s many legends for the birth of a hero, they say ever since that fateful time many years ago. Those who rose from this very district had achieved great things, and thus was the reason why one could smell the lofty aspirations of those who mingled its streets.


    Peering across its well-paved floor that lined a distant and wide streetway towards a far off campus, one would notice that other than a few minor and major businesses on the different corners. There were schrly looking persons, mixed with a bundle of young students who busily hurried about with their parents.


    Much further beyond this sight, one would eventually arrive at a widend, surrounded by a high metallic gate with arge old English style academic building erected beyond it.


    A crest of a sword and a shield engraved onto a signboard that rested above its gates, giving one a deep feeling of majesty as all who walked by it moved with grace, knowing full well of its royal meaning. This building was none other than the Royal Branch Academy, home of aspiring protagonists and a past hero''s legend.


    "Hurry now, my son. We don''t have much time. We have to get as much as we can today so that you will be ready for the academy trials in three days."


    "Y-yes, father."


    A man said as he moved ahead of his son, walking briskly across the street corridor towards the nearest shop, his son followed behind him with a flustered appearance.


    More simr scenes yed out, whether small girls or little boys, who traveled with their parents. Amongst this group was a family of four. Though they didn''t try to stand out, when they stepped through the crowds, several individuals couldn''t help but cast a second look and marvel at their appearance.


    A small ten-year-old boy withrge, rounded eyes, short orange hair, and a freckled face tugged his father''s sleeves as he pointed towards the family''s direction with curiosity on his face.


    "Father, look, aren''t they strange? I can sense something from them, plus they all look so good!"


    "Hmm? Mel-Mel, say what now?"


    The husky man with simr features said in a slightly distracted tone as he turned his sight towards him; the small boy Mel-Mel otherwise known as Melson, shook his arm angrily as he pointed forward as he babbled.


    "Father, stop that; I don''t like that name! Now, look there, hurry, they''re almost gone!"


    Finally, the man shifted his eyes from his son throwing a tantrum, his pupils noticing the backs of Marius, Ria, and Grevlin as they went along the street and faded beyond a crowd.


    "Interesting..."


    The man murmured as his eyes shone strangely; it seemed as if it could pierce through most of the surroundings. A whileter, a smile crept at the corner of his lips as he teased his son.


    "My little Mel-Mel, it looks like I was wrong;ing to this town instead of the capital might be more interesting than I''d thought; it even looks like you might even have a worthy adversary."


    Melson frowned as his cheeked puffed up when he heard his father calling him by his silly nickname; he snorted, no longer saying anything as he looked away towards the direction they vanished. Recalling Grevlin''s portrait, his eyes lit up when he thought to himself.


    ''Hmph, I want to see where he is so sacred for my father''s praise!''


    As Melson thought to himself, his eyes burned withpetitiveness as he knew that while his father liked to joke around, he wasn''t one to speak foolish things.


    The man looked at his son with a warm smile but said nothing; he knew what they came here for, and now wasn''t the time to be distracted.


    "Come, we still have things to deal with,"


    "Okay."


    Melson nodded and obediently replied as he followed beside his father, who turned towards a different area, fading away from the crowded streets into the unknown.


    Marius, Ria, Grevlin, and Little Rose continued to move through the streets towards the nearing academy a distance away from the previous location. While moving, they took in the sights while conversing amongst themselves, ignoring the nosy onlookers with goggling eyes.


    "Mama look, that''s a big bwuilding!"


    Little Rose cutely said as she pointed her finger ahead of the group, nestled in her mother''s arms no different from a tiny adventurer.


    Grevlin also had a look of interest on his face when he stared at the nearing open gates, he thought to himself.


    <em>''So, this is where I''ll be attending, it looks... soothing...''</em>


    When Grevlin thought to here, he couldn''t help but recall his time on Earth, the days of traveling to a normal school with regr individuals; his mood suddenly took a dark turn as if recalling some poor memories.


    At this moment, both Marius and Ria were ying with Little Rose, who pointed everywhere and asked questions. However, as if Ria sensed something, her eyes turned towards Grevlin, who had a slightly sullen appearance.


    Thinking for a little bit, she nudged Marius with her elbow and hinted towards Grevlin with her eyes; Marius soon after showed a look of realizations; he turned to Grevlin and patted his shoulder while speaking.


    "Son, what''s wrong?"


    Grevlin soon awoke from his daze as he heard his father''s words; he looked at him and his mother before gazing at the school a little distance away before he replied.


    "Father, mother, will this school be like those on Earth?"


    When both Marius and Ria heard this, they both became silent as they looked at each other. Marius knew what Grevlin was hinting at as he had experienced simr things even when raised as an assassin. Ria, on the other hand, having lived on Earth for such a long time, had naturally grown to understand some things.


    After a short while, Marius sighed before he raised his hand from Grevlin''s shoulder and rubbed his ck hair when he answered.


    "Grev-Grev, all schools will always be simr no matter where you are, even if on Earth you had to experience bullying or being shunned by others, it will naturally be true that you''ll experience such things in this world."


    When Grevlin heard this, his eyes turned a bit sullen; he didn''t want to go through such a thing again, limiting his strength for another''s sake, keeping distance not to break things, or even preventing others from learning of his secrets.


    Grevlin was about to say something, but right at this time, Marius smacked his forehead with his finger causing Grevlin to hold it in pain as eximed, "Ouch!"


    Marius showed a faint smile as he spoke again, "However, you Grev-Grev are my son; there shouldn''t any matter in this world that should allow for you to hold your head down, as my son you must face all adversity head-on and ovee it like the champion you were born to be. Remember, it''s not the school or the people around you that defines your existence; it is but yourself and what you do to make your dreams a reality."


    Grevlin''s eyes widened at his father''s words, he looked at Marius, who had his hand on top of his head, ruffling his hair with a wide grin on his face, his fatherly smile filled withpassion and pride.


    Grevlin felt like crying at those words, but as he recalled what his father thought about a boy''s crying, he sucked up his tears by rubbing the corners of his eyes. Soon, his eyes turned sharper, filled with a bit more confidence as he spoke in a tone with newfound strength.


    "I understand, father."


    "Good, that''s my boy."


    Marius replied as he smacked Grevlin''s back with his hand; with a heartyugh, the family continued onwards as the poor Grevlin held his back with both arms, pushing himself to resist the pain.

 Chapter 53: The Most Beautiful Instructor

    Chapter 53: The Most Beautiful Instructor


    <strong>NB: There is an error, this chapter is supposed toe after the chapter posted after it.</strong>


    <strong>****</strong>


    At the gates of the academy, a strange silence followed as everyone looked at Marius who took out a familiar item.


    "I came with the invitations of one of your instructors; look clearly, the token here should be more than enough proof."


    Marius said as he took out the red token with a sword and the shield, tossing it towards Lawrence, who had his mouth opened wide in rm.


    The instant his arm caught hold of it, they started to tremble as he could see that it was in no way a fraud item. Knowing full well of the ss of instructor who could give out such a token, sweat rolled down his cheeks as he swallowed his spit, trying to find an excuse.


    The others who saw his change showed mocking expressions as they whispered amongst themselves.


    "Huhu... it looks like this devil finally had his time."


    "Hehe, serves him right, who gave him the right to provoke just anyone. I say that they should kick him out this time."


    A few guards who remained dissatisfied with Lawrence''s performance over the years jeered at his current predicament. Marius, on the other hand, only walked over with his family with a look of ease.


    Not knowing when Marius had arrived in front of him, Lawrence jumped back in fright when Marius''s hand took away the token without him noticing, as he spoke in a calm and cold tone.


    "So, what now? Should I make a formal report about your misconduct?"


    "That... I I..."


    Lawrence tried to say something as he heard Marius''s words, but before he could finish his statement, Marius snorted, no longer paying him any mind as he brushed by his shoulder, walking towards a different guard.


    "Excuse me, but I have received this token from an instructor here; he wanted to recruit my son and told me to show this token at the gate."


    The guard''s face was bright when he heard Marius''s words, even more so as he saw the symbols on the token, clearly signifying that it was of high level.


    "Of course-of course, this humble one would be hindered to guide you to the Superior Instructor. Please, follow me."


    Following the guard''s words, Marius and his family followed along in silence as they observed more of the academy''s sights.


    When Lawrence saw this, he sighed in relief, feeling as if he dodged a bullet, but sadly for him, the moment didn''tst long as Marius''s voice sounded in his ears.


    "You better not think it''s over; you should expect to hear from your superiors."


    Lawrence gulped at those words; he turned around, hoping to convince Marius otherwise. Still, sadly, he could only watch as the bright-faced guard escorted Marius and his family towards the central parts of the academy.


    "Haha, Old Lawrence, look like you kicked the Iron Sheet this time; good luck keeping your post!"


    "Chin up; I''m sure with your skills, you''ll be able to get work in no time, even if it''s outside of the academy."


    A few others said as he mocked Lawrence while heading off to their posts. Lawrence trembled at those words pushing down his embarrassment. Soon, his eyes shone in a dark ray as his entirety became filled with rage. He red at the direction Marius left with his fist clenched tightly while thinking to himself.


    <em>''You bastard, mark my words, this matter isn''t over!''</em>


    Lawrence left his post with a vicious glint in his eyes as he hurriedly moved towards a separate part of the campus, ignoring everyone else around him.


    Now a distance away from the gates, Marius, Ria, Grevlin, and Little Rose had arrived at the academy''s central square.


    There were tall square-shaped pirs that flowed at the edge of a gravel path, reaching towards a fountain with a statue of a man in armor. A small crowd gathered around it, mostly of young girls and boys who listened to the blond-haired woman who spoke of tales. She had long eyshes, bright blue watery eyes, and elf length ears, garbed in a blue magician robe that pped with the gentle winds, showing her slender long legs.


    "Now listen here, young ones, the statue here is none other than the memory of our past founder. A famous warrior of the Royal Knights during the old era, when he retired, it''s said that he settled down in Ivanov and formed our academy based on an appointment from the emperor himself. It''s also said that..."


    While the beauty chatted away with a soft, enchanting voice, the young boys and girls that stood before the statue had looks of excitement on their faces, even more so as they listened to the gorgeousdy.


    Ria gave Marius a sharp look from the corners of her eyes before she looked at the woman with a hint of wonder as this was the first female, she had seen with such an appearance. Her beauty was second to none, and she could be considered the second most beautiful woman ifpared to her.


    "Honey, it looks like you''ve found your first harem candidate, just like those heroes from that old cartoon of yours."


    When Marius heard Ria''s words, he started to sweat, knowing full well why she said that, with utmost power. He didn''t dare to stare too intently at the blond beauty, keeping his eyes fixed ahead of him, his manner akin to a professional soldier in the camping grounds.


    Yet, it didn''t stop him from cursing in his mind, <em>''It''s anime!''</em>


    The person who escorted the family didn''t seem to notice the subtle gunpower that stirred the air. Instead, he leads them while speaking on and on about the surroundings.


    "Ah, Sir Edgewick, and Miss Edgewick, I see that you''ve noticed Miss Juliana; she''s our most beautiful instructor and strongest of all the women within our academy. Haha, if your son is lucky enough, he might just be able to be taught a thing or two by her one of these days."


    "Haha, you jest, my son will be too busy training with his other instructor to be guided by her."


    Marius said while scratching the back of his head, not daring to say more as he could feel a tinge of mes from nearby him. The escort said nothing, he had a smirk on his face as if he knew things differently.


    Little Rose looked around with an adorable expression, staring at Juliana, whom they were now passing by; even Grevlin couldn''t help but look at her with a somewhat interested gaze.


    "Mama, thatdy is pretty."


    Little Rose said with beaming eyes as she stared at Juliana from her mother''s arms. Ria didn''t seem to mind her daughter''s words; she rubbed her cheek with her finger as she spoke.


    "Isn''t that right, my Little Rosey? Look, even your father is dazed."


    Ria said as she hinted towards Marius with her eyes; Little Rose gave Marius a look, noticing that he was currently tense like a soldier at attention. He said nothing; he saw nothing.


    Little Rose made an innocent smile as she spoke strange words, "But, mama is the prettiest!"


    "Hehe, as expected, my daughter is the best in the world."


    Ria said, feeling happy as she coaxed Little Rose in her arms, Marius seeing his daughter diffuse the time bomb sighed in relief; he gave his daughter a good look while thinking to himself.


    <em>''I don''t know if getting married was a blessing or a curse. But for now, at least my daughter is still on my side.''</em>


    Grevlin sent his parents a look and shook his head with a sigh; he didn''t say anything as he knew it wasn''t his ce to do so. Instead, his attention was on a different field where children his age and older were running about with wooden swords.


    Unlike the family, however, Juliana, who addressed the students, naturally sensed when people looked at her; she halted her discussion and stared in the family''s direction with surprise.


    The escort who had been guiding Marius couldn''t help but sigh as he saw this while thinking to himself,<em> ''Oh crap, here we go again...''</em>


    Instantly, her eyes fell onto the small and adorable figure of Little Rose in Ria''s embrace, causing her body to shiver as a startling transformation had urred.

 Chapter 54: Arriving at the Academy

    Chapter 54: Arriving at the Academy


    <strong>NB: There is an error, this chapter is supposed toe before the chapter posted before it.</strong>


    <strong>****</strong>


    The gates of the Royal Branch Academy was especially lively today, for even though it was a weekend, the activities within and outside of its boundaries remained at their peak.


    Carriages moved back and forth, carrying different persons through and out for various reasons, whether it be students and instructors on weekly excursions or other prime individuals.


    Marius and his family had already arrived before the iron gate; they stared at those who went by them with interest as they entered thepound. Suddenly, one of the guards that had stood a watch noticed their group, as unlike everyone else who had entered thepound. They didn''t show any unique tokens or carried a paper of identification.


    "Hey, stop right there!"


    A fat guard with blue hair said as he hurried over, his fat belly bouncing about as he quickly cut them off. A few other guards noticed this and shook their heads as they whispered amongst themselves.


    "Pssh, that Lawrence, he''s always up to his habits; I should report him to the academy chief." A female said with discontent on her face.


    "No, you shouldn''t waste time on stuff like this; besides, what he''s doing isn''t wrong; we have to inquire about their purpose." A slim and handsome guard said.


    "Tch, fine, not like I care anyway, and even if I did, what can I do about the head guard''s habits?"


    While the two other guards wrapped up their conversation, Lawrence, who had arrived before the family of four imposingly, was about to shout once more, but as he got closer, he couldn''t help but frown as he saw an odd scene.


    Marius looked at him and rolled his eyes as Ria snickered a bit; Grevlin showed no change in his apathetic expression. But as for Little Rose, she stared at the stubborn belly with an odd look, shifting her eyes between her t tummy and the overweight male in armor.


    As if she just discovered a new world, Little Rose pointed her arm and spoke in rm, "Mama, bwig uncle''s tummy is sorge, is he sick?"


    Grevlin, who was previously indifferent, couldn''t help but made a lightugh at those words, while the faces of Marius, Ria, and even Lawrence changed as they looked at Little Rose. In a short moment, both Marius and Ria started tough out loud while Lawrence showed a different expression.


    "Hahaha, my girl is right; he does look a tab bit bigger than the norm. Maybe he is not so well after all," Marius said with augh as he rubbed Little Rose''s head.


    "Hehe, Little Rosey, where did you learn such things?" Ria asked as she held her daughter more gently, staring at her with a curious look on her attractive face.


    Little Rose made a cute look as if she was thinking hard, cing one finger onto her plump cheek before she replied.


    "Mama, I saw it on the bwig TV."


    When Ria and Marius heard this, they knew she meant the home television they had back on Earth; they nced at each other and shook their heads at the same, thinking it was a relief she didn''t learn anything else.


    Currently, the face of Lawrence had turned dark; he red at the family with poison in his eyes as he shouted in anger.


    "You sted plebians, how dare you enter our prestigious academy without proper identification? You will each be taken away and given the harshest punishment! Catch them!"


    A few others also didn''t like Lawrence''s words, but they knew better than to reject his orders as he was the head guard. Quickly, they hurried to surround Marius with solemn looks on their faces.


    Marius shook his head at this while thinking, ''I didn''t think so many petty individuals would exist in this world, truly such an annoying thing.''


    After clearing his thoughts, Marius then gave Lawrence a look before he spoke, "I didn''t think a grown man like you could feel embarrassed by a child''s words, but ha, whatever. You im that we''ve entered here without any identification, but I must ask, what would you do if you were to learn that your ims are wrong?"


    Lawrence frowned when he heard Marius''s words; he especially didn''t like the look of confidence on his face despite his current situation. He looked at the men that surrounded the family, feeling a bitter feeling in his mouth when he notices the looks of uncertainty on their faces.


    ''Che! That son of a bitch, it looks like I need to hurry and shut him up before anything else; if he has an identity, how could anyone be noteworthy enough for my status? Hmph! Your family will rue the day it dared to offend me.''


    Finishing his thoughts, Lawrence pointed his fat fingers ahead before he spoke, "What are you waiting for? Hurry and suppress them!"


    A crowd soon started to gather as they notice the urrences here; Lawrence wanted to end things before any more variables popped up.


    The other guards could only shake their heads with conflicted feelings as they slowly advanced on Marius''s family. A few watched this scene with hints of pity in their eyes, but unlike those who observed from afar, Marius remained calm.


    He chuckled before he stared past the nearing guards onto Lawrence''s face before he spoke in a cold tone of voice, "I say, fatso, are you sure you really want to do this? Don''t you know what will happen if you''re wrong?"


    Lawrence''s veins pulsed as he heard Marius''s words; feeling a dense amount of rage because of Marius''s form of address, he snapped at him like an angry snapper at sea.


    "You vile bastard, how dare you mock me? Break his legs and drag him to me!"


    The others nodded and promptly rushed forward, preparing to follow through with such actions, the crowd that had now gathered watch with surprise, some feeling it a pity that such a fine family would fall in disaster.


    Lawrence felt nothing about this as he saw the crowd; he couldn''t help but feel a bit of excitement, showing off his status and strength. He felt that no one would mock him for his weight again after making an example.


    Nevertheless, moments away from seeing Marius grovel at his feet, his eyes soon widened when he saw a sudden change.

 Chapter 55: Julianas Curse

    Chapter 55: Juliana''s Curse


    "Adorable! Adorable! Adorable!"


    An enchanting voice said as it echoed across most of the campus, stirring other instructors'' senses in distant ces, even students focused on hard training.


    In one particr lounge, a familiar man sat in silence before a table with a washed-out piece of paper; before it was a simple looking insignia of a tiger with rust on its edges and cracks here and there.


    "The past should be the past... why do I still linger on such a thing?"


    Seth sighed in a rather pale manner as his eyes showed a recollective look. He soon after put away the paper and insignia before moving towards a desk. However, while walking, he hurriedly held a piece of cloth against his mouth as he started to cough fiercely.


    After a bit of coughing, his trembling arm moved away from his mouth, showing bits of blood on the cloth, but rather than showing despair on his face; he merely smirked as he spoke to himself.


    "Heh, looks like I drank a little too much yesterday; I might have provoked this old wound. Huhu... then again, it was worth it in the end."


    When Seth''s said those words, he couldn''t help but recall the talented seed he met in the Fallen Star Inn; he chuckled, thinking that he might have just found his protege.


    While thinking such thoughts, he felt in such a good mood that he wanted to retake a drink, but before he could even reach for the wine bottles on the countertop, he heard Juliana''s voice from a distance.


    "Huh? It''s Julie, who is the child this time?"


    When Seth murmured those words, his eyes showed a trace of helplessness as he knew full well why she would act like this, knowing partly, or rather, primarily, it was his fault.


    "Looks like I''ll need to go and calm her down again,"


    Seth said as he quickly left the room, leaving behind a silent lounge as he traveled towards the scene.


    ***


    Back within the academy''s central square, a small crowd formed once more as people looked towards the source with interest. Still, if one were to pay attention to most instructors'' eyes, they would notice that it had a trace of pity as they looked at the beautiful blond-haired woman.


    "I didn''t think she''d act out today; where''s that man?"


    A rough-looking man said with spikey brown hair, a thick spiky beard, and a scar on one of his eyes. He wore loose-fitting shorts that exposed his muscr arms and shorts that were knee-length.


    A few instructors who were idly chatting saluted when they saw this man as they replied.


    "We greet Superior Instructor n, we''ve already sent word to Superior Instructor Seth, but it would take a while for him to get here."


    n frowned as he looked at the scene and spoke in a tone of discontent, "Tsk, I don''t know if that bastard is lucky or cursed; he should properly learn how to handle his private affairs, even more so for that woman he brought here."


    Following those words, n then turned around and left towards a different area. It seemed that he wasn''t interested in the current scene.


    "Say, I''ve always wanted to ask, what''s wrong with her?"


    A new instructor asked.


    Another looked at him and spoke softly, "It''s something no one can resolve, a curse that limits her as a woman in the worst ways possible."


    "A curse, what kind of curse?" The instructor asked again with puzzled eyes.


    "A curse unique to her; no one else has ever seen it in the entire dynasty. As such, many havee to term it as the Curse of Womanhood, otherwise known as Juliana''s Curse."


    Another instructor replied, the others remained silent at this, but no one said anything else about the topic.


    "Well, let''s clean things up, she''ll return to normal after he gets here, plus we still need to focus on today''s training sessions."


    The pointed hat instructor said that as he led everyone to diverge, each had more important things to handle. One instructor even led the children whom Juliana oversaw away toplete their session.


    Still, as if she waspletely unaware of everything else, Juliana stared in the direction of Marius''s family, her eyes locked onto Little Rose as if she was a peerless artifact.


    "She''s so adorable! May I hold her?" Juliana said with her bright and shining blue eyes staring onto Little Rose.


    Marius had an awkward look on his face as he didn''t know what to do; he scratched the back of his head as he replied, "Madame, I''m sorry, but we''re kind of in a hu"


    As Juliana heard Marius''s words, without even waiting for him to finish, her manner turned a bit sullen; just one look at her would instill a deep wave of pity into any man.


    Marius, even if raised as an assassin, was no different. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have fallen in love with Ria. He sighed, not finishing his words as he looked at the woman before him, he tried thinking of a solution, but right now, Ria tapped his shoulder and gave him a look.


    "It''s okay, honey, leave it to me."


    Marius hesitated for a moment before he replied, "Fine."


    Ria made a graceful smile as she stepped forward with Little Rose in her arm; the small girl looked around confused, not knowing what was happening.


    Or rather, not understanding why thedy before her was so sad, she stared up at her mother''s face and asked in a cute tone.


    "Mama, why is big auntie sad?"


    Ria, who had more attunity to people''s spirit and negative emotions, stared at her daughter and replied, "Mother doesn''t know, but if I were to guess, it''s likely that''s she''s been through a tragedy."


    "Trwagedy?" Little Rose asked as she looked up at Ria''s face with big round eyes before Juliana.


    "Yes, tragedy," Ria replied correcting Little Rose''s mispronunciation as she gently rubbed her hair.


    Not long after, Ria had arrived before Juliana, who looked up at her and Little Rose with a weary smile. She was about to say something akin to an apology, but before she could speak, Ria gave her daughter a look before cing her on the ground and stepping back.


    Little Rose seemed to be driven by instinct as her feet touched the floor; she walked up to Juliana and stooped down before lifting her head to stare at her face as she innocently asked.


    "Big Auntie, why are you sad?"


    Almost unable to withstand the adorable sight, Juliana almost seemed as if she was about to faint, but she bit her lips to keep her reason as she lightly touched a strand of Little Rose''s hair and replied.


    "Adorable girl, you''re so smart for your age, and even more kind... you see, this aunt has always wanted to have children, but... because of certain reasons such dreams can nevere true."


    As Juliana said this, tears ran down her cheeks as she thought back to the cause. Little Rose had no idea what her core problem was, but being an innocent child, she answered the only way she knew how.


    With a gentle hug, Little Rose held onto Juliana''s face as she spoke with her slightly broken speech, "Big Auntie don''t cry, mama always said that girls shouldn''t weep so often. Mama says that so long we wish reaaaly hard, then all our dreams wille true!"


    Juliana, as if stricken by both Little Rose''s words, and actions were a bit dazed; even when Little Rose removed her arms from her body and went back to Ria''s embrace, she still hadn''t recovered, as she stared off in a daze.


    Ria looked at this with a sigh as she held Little Rose and spoke to Juliana, "Dear Miss, you shouldn''t wallow into despair like this; it''s not good for us women and our health you see, hope doesn''te to the weary, but those who strive harder than anyone else."


    As Ria finished her words, she brought Little Rose over to Marius, who sighed in relief before looking at their escort with an awkward face. The escort didn''t seem to mind as he hurriedly brought them away, leaving behind only a silent scene of the gorgeous Juliana who stared in a daze in the central square.


    She was unaware of everything else, but the words of mother and daughter had continued to resound over and over again in her mind.

 Chapter 56: A Fathers Jealousy, Meeting Seth

    Chapter 56: A Father''s Jealousy, Meeting Seth


    Time passed quickly, and the escort brought Marius''s family to the lounge where Seth typically rested. Having guided them, he knocked on the door a few times, but as he didn''t hear a reply, he had concluded that Seth had more than likely taken a walk.


    "I''m terribly sorry, I didn''t know that the instructor had gone out. It seems I was a bit silly; he likely heard themotion and has probably gone over to greet his Miss Juliana. Please wait a moment; I shall bring news of your arrival to him."


    After saying such words, the escort hurriedly left the lounge towards the central square, leaving behind everyone else.


    Marius looked around at the fine carpet that rested below a series of simple-looking table and furniture, a faint smile formed on his face as he spoke, "It seems our friend here is a man who likes the simple things; he reminds me of that old man..."


    Ria snickered at this as she elbowed Marius''s side and admonished him, "Youck those manners stated by your kind; you should address him as Esteemed Senior."


    Marius rubbed his side with a slightly painful look on his face as he nced at his wife and answered, "Hmph! Nope, calling him senior was more than enough. You''re not gonna see me add any more unnecessary words."


    Ria knew how stubborn her husband could get; as such, she didn''t bother pushing the matter; she answered in an off-handed tone, "Okay-okay, you can do what you want, so stop sulking."


    Marius had a slightly embarrassed look on his face as he said nothing more; Grevlin looked at him and said nothing, he hurriedly held down his face, but if one paid attention, they could tell that he had a light smile on his face.


    Marius naturally sensed it; he nced at his son from the corners of his eyes while thinking to himself.


    <em>''My son-my son, what have you done? You dared to take your mother''s side; it looks like I''ll need to be stricter in our next time training.''</em>


    Unaware of his father''s dark thoughts, Grevlin sought only to preupy himself to pass the time, he got from his seat and started to wander around the room, observing the picture frames and different trinkets mounted on the shelves.


    While Grevlin fumbled around, Little Rose stared at a picture frame hung up at the far corner of the room, her eyes shining as she pointed her finger and spoke excitedly, "Mama, what''s that?"


    "Hmm?" Ria uttered as she turned her attention to the picture frame.


    There, she saw a peculiar image, one of an extraordinarily handsome man with blonde hair, a white horse with white mes on its feet, and divine like holy armor. He held onto a javelin with a straight posture as if he was destined to pierce all the world''s evil.


    Ria''s face turned strange as she saw this; she stared at her daughter and asked, "Rose,e tell mother, what''s so special about that man?"


    Marius, who was previously paying attention to Grevlin, seemed to have only noticed their exchange. When he heard the word ''man,'' he cautiously looked at his daughter, awaiting her next words.


    The innocent girl looked at her mother with beaming eyes as she pointed at the picture and spoke, "It''s veeeerrrrrry pretty!"


    As if a bomb went loose, Marius felt as if he had sumbed to a stroke when he heard his daughter''s words; his head started to spin as if the world had turned upside down.


    Ria, who sensed his negative emotions, naturally felt delighted, absorbing a bit of the dilemma he released unconsciously. She tittered, not saying anything to him as she addressed her daughter with a motherly smile, "Hehe, well now, my little Rosey has a good taste, that''s right, we women must adore the finest of things."


    Little Rose happily pped her hands; though she didn''tpletely understand her mother''s meaning, she was happy hearing her mother''s praise. Sadly though, it seemed that only one parent could find joy in this situation.


    Marius, who took a deep breath to calm himself down, red at the picture frame as if it was an enemy, his body unconsciously, releasing a dense killing intent while thinking to himself.


    <em>''That cannot do, absolutely not, no man can take my little daughter away from me!''</em>


    Marius tried to push down his feelings with those thoughts in mind as he put on the most gentle and calm appearance when he asked his wife.


    "Ria, that picture is quite good; I must know, do you have an idea of the person behind its portrait?"


    Ria gave Marius a strange look, which caused him to gulp slightly, thinking that she had read his thoughts, but soon, she showed a loving wife smile as she answered.


    "Why, of course I do, my-dear-husband."


    Marius''s eyes lit up at those words, he prepared to ask her again, but before he could do so, he noticed that a sly smile had formed on her face when she looked at him and spoke again.


    "But... there''s one tiny condition..."


    Marius sighed as he asked, "Really? What kind of condition?"


    "Hehe..." Ria giggled to herself strangely as her eyes turned a bit strange, her slender legs rubbing closely together as her face turned a bit ruddy.


    Marius gulped seeing this, he could pretty much guess what her condition was without her saying it, but he still looked at her with firm eyes.


    As expected, with a soft and tempting voice, Ria answered with a special method, sending her voice only to his ears, "I will tell you tonight, only if you be my..."


    Marius felt a tinge of excitement as he listened closely, but right before her words could finish, the door to the room opened with a loud bang as a rough voice sounded.


    "His name is Piere Krasac, a past hero of Alvaria, the very legend who was said to have found this academy."


    The moment the voice finished, Seth had appeared at the doorway, his previously tidy appearance a bit disordered as even his shirt was loose with rips as if a ''beast'' had roughed him up.


    Seth felt satisfied that he had arrived before the family of his soon to be protege, temporarily suppressing even the trouble he had a few moments back. Yet, even after a while passed, he couldn''t help but feel strange as he stared at the formerly gentle and kind family.


    As if he felt two sources of dreadful killing intent, Seth gulped as he saw both Marius''s and Ria''s cold stare as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Eh? Did I say something wrong?''</em>


    The cold wind of the daytime brushing through the windows, dousing his spirit as both sides stared at each other in awkward silence.

 Chapter 57: Mariuss Test, Successful Enrollment

    Chapter 57: Marius''s Test, Sessful Enrollment


    The silent treatment didn''tst long as Marius and Ria returned to normal upon calming their feelings. Seth showed a look of confusion but didn''t bother to ask unnecessary things; he spoke with the family for a while before they got to the point.


    "We have decided to ept your offer," Marius said with a smile.


    Feeling excited, Seth wanted to jump from his seat, but he did his best to maintain hisposure as he replied, "Excellent! Truly excellent! You''ve made a fine choice; there''s no better school to teach and no better instructor than myself. You can both rest assured that I will do my best to train him as my protege."


    Marius was a bit surprised at Seth''s guarantee, he thought Seth only wanted a good disciple, but it seems that he had viewed Grevlin much more important than he''d expected.


    He thought for a bit, recalling a few things that the Mountain Ax Senor, Brayhard, had said to him about Grevlin, along with what he discovered about his own peculiarities with regards to training before he spoke again with a deep look on his face.


    "Sir Seth, I don''t know if you''ve realized, but I''ll just say it here, my son might be a bit different from what you might be expecting. His talents are naturally incredible, but his body''s unusual ''constitution'' has made it such that he cannot practice Mystical Power Arts. The only way he can progress in power would be through actualbat, but right now, his strength should have most likely reached a limit his age can withstand. Not only that, but my son''s arms also are, as you might have noticed, different, he can only keep them sealed like that, using them only if the situation requires. Are you still willing to ept him as such a disciple with those kinds of conditions?"


    "Huh? Are you serious?" Seth asked in rm as he heard Marius''s words, he didn''t dare to believe it, but as he looked at Marius''s expression that had no change in emotions, he shuddered, knowing that he was truthful.


    He paused before shifting his eyes to Grevlin seated on the side, listening to their conversation. Grevlin didn''t shrink back in fear or shyness upon receiving Seth''s gaze; he stared at him directly in the eyes with a calm and mostly curious expression.


    <em>''Good, such a calm manner and powerful state of mind, even if he has innate defects, there''s still a silver lining, it''s not like he can''t advance his strength. Otherwise, as Sir Edgewick has stated, his son wouldn''t have never so easily reached the maximum peak power attainable by someone for his age. It doesn''t matter if he doesn''t actively use his arms, there are many techniques at my disposal, and it''s not like his arms crippled either, just different. Even if he is not able to practice my Darkness Sutra, I can still do it; I can train him...''</em>


    After making up his mind, Seth looked at Marius with a firm look in his eyes as he spoke, "It''s fine; I see no reason not to ept him as my protege, I would need to alter my training methods, but for this talented child, I see no need not to go the extra mile."


    Marius gave Ria a look, seeing her showing a smile; he then looked at Seth again deeply, the two staring at each other for a while before Marius smiled and replied.


    "Good, that''s all I need to hear. Son, go greet your master."


    Grevlin, hearing his father''s words, naturally knew what he meant; having learned a few customs of this world from his mother, he promptly bowed his head and ced his fists together before he spoke in a respectful tone.


    "Grevlin greets Sir Seth."


    Looking at Grevlin''s manner, Seth felt even more satisfied. He rose to his feet and tapped his shoulder before speaking, "Excellent, this truly is a wonderous day, epting such a fine student. Raise your head now, child, from now on; you should call me master, not Seth."


    Grevlin then lifted his head and stared at Seth before replying, "As master wishes."


    Seth had a beaming smile as he finally heard those words; he then thought for a bit before he spoke Marius and Ria.


    "Good, now that this is done with, we can sort out the remaining paperwork and my disciple should be able to attend with this new batch of recruits, starting in the next few days."


    When Marius and Ria heard this, they nodded in agreement and filled out all the necessary details. After a few minutes, theypleted all documents, and the time had already grown dark, showing that the night was beginning to descend.


    Marius lifted his head to look at the vague stars and various lights that lit up the mystical sky as he spoke, "It''s already thiste. It looks like we should get going."


    Ria stared at him with a slightly flushed face as she added, "Yes we should hurry, we cannot afford to waste this good night:


    Marius gulped as he replied, "Indeed, we can''t."


    Seth had an odd look on his face as he couldn''t quite tell what they were saying, but he smiled and spoke in agreement, "That''s right,e allow me to escort you all to the gates."


    "That would be great," Marius and Ria said at the same time as if he was eager to leave in a hurry.


    Seth thought it strange but said nothing more on the topic. Quickly, the group left the lounge as they walked along the neatly paved tracks of the school.


    A few students and instructors notice Seth and Marius''s family as they passed by arge water fountain that glistened with the lights from thete afternoon stars.


    They showed looks of surprise as they didn''t think there was anyone worthy for someone of Seth''s status to personally guide out of the academy. Nevertheless, though shocked, no one dared to obstruct them; they merely offered their greetings before continuing with their affairs.


    Moments after Seth had guided Marius''s family off-campus. They bid each other farewell and went their separate ways as Marius tightly held onto Ria''s soft palm that currently had its way with her fingers.


    "Tonight will be a beautiful night..." Ria said as she stared up at the stars with her bright eyes, her face having traces of blush as she licked her lips.


    Marius smiled as he added in agreement, "Indeed it will, a long night, but a steep one from tomorrow onwards. Grevlin, are you ready?"


    Grevlin, who also stared at the stars, looked at Marius before he replied with his eyes filled with confidence, "I will do my best, father."


    "Good, that''s my son."


    Marius said as he rubbed Grevlin''s head, the peaceful family scene remained as such as they walked through the now bustling night-lit streets towards home.

 Chapter 58: Grevlins First Day

    Chapter 58: Grevlin''s First Day


    The days passed quickly, and it was finally time for Grevlin''s first attendance of the Royal Branch Academy. Naturally, the entire family had gotten up early for this asion as even Little Rose was up about, questioning her brother with curious eyes.


    "Big brwother, are you going to school? Don''t you want to y with me?"


    Grevlin looked at his loving little sister that stared up at him with her big cute eyes as he stooped down and pattered her head while replying.


    "Of course I do, after all my little sister is the cutest, don''t worry, I''lle back early, for now, you can y with mother."


    When Little Rose heard Grevlin''s words, her eyes showed a trace of sadness, but as if she wanted to show signs of bing a big little girl, she clenched her small arms and replied.


    "Okay, Rose-Rose will y with mama."


    Grevlin eyes beamed as he found that his sister''s action just now was too adorable. He poked her on the cheek before he started to tickle her, the small child''s giggles sounding through the room until Ria appeared.


    "Oh, you too brats, how dare you y without your mother?" Ria said as she looked at them.


    Grevlin felt a bit embarrassed, so he held his head down, but Little Rose didn''t seem to mind it. She ran to her mother like a chick to a hen and raised her arms as she spoke, "Mama, I want up!"


    Ria smiled, seeing her daughter''s manner before she leaned down and picked her up; the two started to have a sudden mother and daughter moment as if forgetting about Grevlin.


    Grevlin felt nothing at this; he looked around, checking if he forgot anything before taking up a sack with an assortment of recently bought items.


    Not long after, Marius''s voice sounded from the door as he entered the room, "Grev-Grev, are you ready?"


    "I''m ready, father," Grevlin replied.


    Marius gave him a good look; seeing the firm look in his eyes, he smiled and replied, "Good, then let''s get moving."


    "Right," Grevlin answer as he prepared to leave with his father, but right as he took his first step, a low ''yipping'' sound was heard, forcing him to halt as he looked down with surprised eyes.


    At his feet, there was the small tiger cub, Little ck, rubbing its head on its feet as it stared at him with pitiful eyes.


    Grevlin felt a bit torn by this; he knew that the cubs were clingy and didn''t want to be apart from either himself or his sister for too long. He thought for a bit before speaking.


    "I''m sorry Little ck, but I have to go to the academy. I''ll spend time with youter..."


    As Grevlin hardened his resolve, he tried to step by it, but the tiger still seemed to be stubborn. It didn''t move budge from his foot, holding on dearly with both of its small paws.


    Grevlin made a helpless sigh at this; he looked at his father, not knowing what to do. Marius chuckled at this sight before he spoke, "Son, since it wants to go with you, then take it. It''s not like you''re going to a school on earth. They should have the means to allow for students to take pets. If not, just leave it with that master of yours."


    "Oh, I could do that," Grevlin thought as he only just realized his mistake. No longer wasting any more time, he stooped down and spoke to the tiger cub.


    "Come, let''s go together Little ck," He said as he picked it up and then walked towards his father.


    Marius seeing Grevlin ready, then turned his eyes to his wife and father as he spoke, "Ria, I''ll be back soon; I''ll pay a visit to the Seeker''s Faction after taking Grevlin to school."


    Ria hearing his words, gave him a look as she replied, "Go now, don''t worry about us, we''ll be having a mother and daughter day out by ourselves, won''t we, Rosey?"


    Little Rose was excited at her mother''s words; she raised her small fist, pumping it into the air as she replied, "Really? Yay!"


    Marius gave Ria a wink before leaving soon after, the door closing as Grevlin left with him as they made their way down its halls and stairs.


    Li caught sight of this as she hurriedly gave a call from the counter, "Sir Edgewick, is he finally off to join the academy?"


    Marius looked at her and replied, "Yup. I''m escorting him on his first day."


    Li had beaming eyes as she leaped from behind her counter,nding on the ground before Grevlin as she spoke, "That''s awesome! Little guy, consider this a gift from me for your first day."


    After saying those words, she handed a small box to Grevlin; it even seemed as if she prepared it for a while based on its decorations.


    "Thanks, Miss Li," Grevlin said with a polite tone.


    "Haha, it''s nothing kid, go on now and make our little inn proud," Li said as she waved him off.


    Marius and Grevlin gave her a polite gesture before walking out of the inn and vanishing behind the earlier morning''s bustling crowd.


    While on the streets, a few regrs and inn neighbors who know the family couldn''t help but offer cheers and congrats to Grevlin. Marius greeted them with a kind manner before continuing onwards with his son.


    Eventually, they arrived at the Hope District, seeing many new students simr to being led to the academy by their family members.


    There were carriages of different styles and natures, even strong men and women riding beasts of different kinds, or those who choose to escort their children on foot like Marius and Grevlin.


    "It''s even grander than I thought, heh, son, looks like you''ll have quite a bundle ofpetitions, are you nervous?" Marius asked with a teasing grin on his face.


    Grevlin hesitated a bit before he gripped his fist and replied, "I won''t lose to them, father."


    Marius''s eyes showed pride as he rubbed Grevlin''s head and spoke, "That''s my son."


    Immediately after those words, the father and son faded further into the distance, as the first day of Grevlin''s academy life had officially begun.

 Chapter 59: A Sudden Encounter

    Chapter 59: A Sudden Encounter


    It didn''t take long for Marius and Grevlin to near the academy gates; on their way here, they noticed quite a few talented children around, a few years older than Grevlin. Many of them being at Level 6, which was no different from a Two Star G ss Combatants. Rarely would one see a prestigious group carrying children at the Three Star G ss. Those who had achieved Level 9 where all children in their teenage years, the youngest being 13.


    Though curious, Marius and Grevlin didn''t stay idle for long as they promptly walked towards thepound, Marius was about to let Grevlin off and head off his way, but soon, he was distracted by a peculiar youth.


    It was a boy who seemed roughly the same age as Grevlin, having a freckled face and orange hair. He stood by the side of a husky man with simr features, only his body wore a lengthy coak with heavy armor underneath it.


    Marius frowned as when he inspected them, he heard a strange notification.


    ____


    Ding!


    Target is superior to you in strength, cannot provideplete details.


    Ding!


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Welsh Morgan]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: ?| <strong>Age</strong>: 37]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Half-Blood Artiman]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>:? Star E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: ? | <strong>Strength</strong>: ?]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: ? | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: ?]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: ?]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: ?]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: ??? | Level ??]


    [<strong>Learnt Skills</strong>: ????, ????, ????, ????, ????]


    ____


    Ding!


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Melson Morgan]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 10| <strong>Age</strong>: 10]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Half-Blood Artiman]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: F Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: G | <strong>Strength</strong>: G]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystic Powe</strong>r: F]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: Foundation Light Sutra]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Speed Burst | Level 2]


    [<strong>Learnt Skills</strong>: sh Step, Light Cut]


    ____


    <em>''Hmm, well now, this is my first time after that old man that I encountered someone I couldn''t quite understand, and this ce isn''t even in the royal city. It looks like I truly need to hurry andplete my advancement test, a pity the month is still a long way off from finishing; I won''t be able to advance until then. Still, other than this man, his son is rather incredible to think I''d see a Third Grade Talent here. It''s even a bit odd, to think that his strength would only be one level below that of his actual core stats, almost as if he''s a Half Fourth Grade Talent if such a thing even exists. Heh, truly interesting...''</em>


    Marius thought with an unusual look on his face as he stared at both father and son that blocked their path. Grevlin gave the strange boy a hard stare in front of him as he noticed thetter was looking at him provocatively.


    As for Welsh, it appeared as if the world was of no concern to him. He merely waited for something to take ce. As expected, it didn''t take long for Melson to speak as he had finished sizing up who he deemed as a rival.


    "Hey you there, I couldn''t help but notice that out of all the new arrivals. Yours is the only talent that can match up to mine. But is this really so? I refuse to believe that just anybody can stand up to me. As such, I hereby dere that within these trials; I shall defeat you directly."


    After saying his words, Melson didn''t care for Grevlin''s reply. He turned around and strolled into the academy, not even bidding farewell to his father.


    Grevlin looked at the boy''s back with a curious expression. It was his first time, never had there been a person in his age group to dare confront him directly like this. He had been teased before and mocked, but everyone back on earth, especially in his ss, knew better than to provoke Grevlin tobat. They learned so from the broken bones of a pitiful child whom Grevlin had ''identally'' hurt with his elbows...


    With a thoughtful look far unlike that of his age, Grevlin then shook his head, no longer pondering Melson''s words. He behaved in a more mature manner, as he knew that he didn''t need to participate in the Academy Trails as he was already a student.


    "Father, I''m off."


    "Good, take care now, son."


    Marius said with a smile; he looked at Grevlin with a proud look, even more so at his inherited indifference to provocation.


    Watching both boys as they disappeared through the school gates, it was only now that Welsh finnaly spoke to Marius.


    "Youth, truly the best time of our years, don''t you think so?"


    Marius nced at him, recalling his dark childhood years, filled with endless killing and suffering the likes of which no ordinary man could ever possibly imagine.


    As he recalled those years, a slightly dismal aura filled the air, startling Welsh, who didn''t expect such a sudden change. However, this aura didn''tst long as Marius consciously suppressed it.


    His eyes now a bit colder as if he had been suffused with a dark killing breath, he nced at Welsh and answered, <em>''It might be for some, but for others, a child''s years can be no different from a nightmare. Heh, what truly defines a child''s best years are not the years itself, but their very experiences...''</em>


    After saying those words, Marius turned and left the gates, making his way to the Seeker''s Faction of the Hero''s District.


    Welsh, who now had a sh of enlightenment, stared at Marius''s figure which grew distant with each passing second as he made a faint smile while thinking.


    <em>''Who would have thought that some random fellow could teach me about child-rearing? Ha, funny, yet truly intriguing...''</em>


    Following those thoughts, his body soon after shed before he vanished, leaving behind no trace of his existence. Yet, as both Marius and Welsh went their way, they would see an obscure carriage if one looked in a corner.


    Within it was the well dressed Vawn Wilborn, who peeked through its windows at Marius, who left in the distance, his eyes shining with a cold ray, showing a dense murderous desire.


    "Go now, do not fail our family''s reputation," Vawn said in an icy tone.


    Jae, who stood up from his seat in the carriage, bowed before replying, "I will do my best, father."


    Not long after, Jae left for the gates, leaving behind the gloomy scene of the silent carriage that soon after left, returning to the Wilbron Estate.

 Chapter 60: Eyed by Pests, A Girl Called Anna

    Chapter 60: Eyed by Pests, A Girl Called Anna


    When Grevlin entered thepound, he had walked along with the congregation of student candidates heading towards the Academy Trials. Curiously though, a few among them who were roughly 13 years of age gave him dark looks as if they had some grudge with him.


    Others also noticed this and couldn''t help but start questioning his identity and the actual situation.


    "Hey, I heard that two days ago, that kid''s father had provoked Head Guard Lawrence." A tall kid said.


    "What? Are you sure? That fat belly uncle, what''s so special about him?" A skinny kid asked with surprise.


    The tall kid looked around before cing his mouth closer to his ear and whispering, "Well, you see, it''s not he that''s special, but his connections; my mother said that those from the Wiggin''s have roots with the Superior Instructor n."


    "Ehhh? That means faced uncle, no wonder I didn''t like him, father always said that head Guard Lawrence is dirty." The small kid said back with a look of disgust on his face.


    "Shhh, you can''t keep saying such things, you''d get into trouble, nowe along, we have to hurry ahead, do remember not to provoke just anyone, as you can see that kid is more likely going to have a tough time in the trials now that Lawrence has him marked."


    The tall kid said as he pulled the other kid forward; the small kid had no choice but to follow along, hoping no one heard his earlier shouts.


    Not too far ahead, Melson also heard the words from the others. He gave Grevlin apetitive look before turning away, keeping his focus ahead of them.


    Naturally, behind Grevlin by a reasonable distance, Jae also stared at him, but unlike Melson, who showed rivalry, Jae showed a look far different from other children, a look of pure hatred.


    <em>''Father, I will break his dreams and rise above him; only then can I prove that I am the worthy sessor to the family name.''</em>


    Jae thought as he stared at Nero''s back for a while before looking away.


    With regards to everyone''s attention, Grevlin didn''t even spare them a nce; his eyes wandered about as he looked for the instructors. Soon, their group had arrived at a wide-open field, joining arger audience.


    Grevlin looked at the scene with surprise as he spoke, "So many..."


    "Yes... t-t-today, t-there''s a lot, cough..." A timid voice said from nearby, followed by a session of coughing.


    Grevlin nced to his side with curiosity only to notice a well-dressed petite girl who seemed roughly his age; her skin was pale, hair was a dull pink, as were herrge rounded shaped eyes with long eyshes.


    It was clear that she was a growing beauty, and if one ignored her skin''s paleness and sickly appearance, giving her a few years, she would mature into a wonder.


    As the little girl notice Grevlin''s curious stare, her face turned red with embarrassment as she shrank back slightly.


    Grevlin felt a tinge of familiarity with this girl, the very way she showed fear for others around her, bringing him back to a much earlier time in his childhood. He thought for a moment before firmed up his resolve and spoke with a slightly friendly tone.


    "Hello, my name is Grevlin; what''s yours?"


    The girl showed a hesitant look; she coughed a few times before wiping her mouth with a cute pink cloth as she replied, "It''s Anna..."


    Grevlin made a friendly smile as he spoke, "Nice to meet you, Anna. Are you here for the Academy Trails?"


    Anna shook her head at this; she was about to reply, but there was a disturbance before that could happen.


    "Hey, you there, the freak without arms, I have something to say to you." A rough but youthful voice said in an aggressive tone as if mocking the fact that Grevlin''s arms were sealed within his jacket.


    Grevlin frowned at the disturbance, he typically wouldn''t pay anyone of this nature attention, but for some reason, he felt a bit annoyed when he was interrupted.


    Standing behind him, were three boys who were more than a head taller than himself. They each looked at him as if looking at a toy and showed mocking gazes as they saw him look at them.


    Anna showed a worried look as she saw this scene, she wanted to do something, but Grevlin shook his head and spoke, "What do you want?"


    This group''s leader was a robust teenager with a single patch of hair on his shaved head. He pped his fist into his palm and spoke threateningly, "Ha, it''s nothing; I only wanted to warn you. You''d better watch out during the trials because we''ll being to teach you a lesson. Let''s go, guys."


    After saying his piece, he left with his cronies, who made intimating noises as they passed Grevlin.


    Watching as the boys left, Grevlin looked at them with indifferent eyes, as if he hadn''t paid their words any mind, he didn''t even flinch in front of a grown-up like Barkan, so it would be something incredible for a teenager to startle his spirits.


    "Hey, A-a-are you okay? Do you need help?" Anna asked with a worried voice, her eyes showing concern to this new potential friend.


    Grevlin shook his head and replied, "I''m fine; they were only insects."


    "Huh? Hehe, you''re pretty arrogant you know," Anna said with a lightugh, showing a bright smile on her face, her look now seeming a tinge prettier from the usual state.


    Grevlin felt that it was cute, but that''s all; he said nothing more on the matter as he shifted his eyes around and spoke, "Where are the instructors?"


    "Oh, they should be co---" Anna was about to say something, but it seemed that her words wouldn''t be necessary.


    Following the sound of a loud horn, all students turned their attention towards a certain direction. There, a few instructors had appeared, including the famous Juliana.


    When these instructors arrived, the scene grew quiet as all students looked on with focus, not to miss any details.


    ____


    NB: "Hey guys, I will be doing special contests every month from now, from them you can win an Amazon gift card along with a copy of one of my Amazon book series. There will be twopetitions this month, one for Valentines and one for the end date of Chinese New Year. Keep an eye on my Twitter and Facebook page for more details toe in theing week."


    Facebook - /ShadowsFingers


    Twitter - /ShadowsFinger

 Chapter 61: The Trials Commence

    Chapter 61: The Trial''s Commence


    The scene within the centralpound was now a one as each candidate observed the instructors who appeared one by one. Most of them carried a schrly air, while few amongst them had a more heroic appearance, dressed in hardened battle wear with their weapons strapped on their waits or backs.


    Curiously, only one of the superior instructors, being n was present. Other than himself, the rest who gathered here were no less than the novice and veteran instructors.


    A few instructors were a bit constrained around n, who carried a fierce look by nature, but those who were closer to him spoke with inquisitive tones.


    "Haha, Instructor n, I didn''t think that you''d attend today, have someone special caught your attention?" A fat male instructor asked.


    "That''s right. There''s got to be a brat in this new batch of candidates. Why else would someone of your standinge here?" Another instructor said.


    n didn''t look at the two but scanned his eyes across the candidates before locking onto a form. He then smirked and responded, "Indeed there is, but I''m only here to observe."


    Juliana stood proudly on one side of this batch, her eyes scanning the crowd until itnded onto Grevlin''s figure; she then smiled and sent him a wink before turning her eyes away.


    Anna, who stood nearby Grevlin, obviously noticed the scene just now; she gave Grevlin a curious look as she asked, "Grevlin, did Miss Juliana look at you just now? It looks as if you''re both acquainted."


    Grevlin nodded and answered, "Um, yes, I met her with both my parents on the day I visited here."


    Anna had shing eyes as she heard Grevlin''s words; she sped her fist into her palm as she eximed with a look of realization, "Ah... so you''re like me then,"


    "Hmm, like you?" Grevlin asked with a puzzled look on his face.


    Anna snickered as she held one hand against her mouth while replying mysteriously, "Hehe, you''ll know soon."


    Grevlin felt her manner was strange; his eyes had a flicker as he prepared to use his inspection skill on her. However, right at this moment, there was a change.


    One of the instructors walked forward; it was a middle-aged woman garbed in a witch hat with a mean face,rge nose, and a tall robe; her staff made noises as its base hit the floor before she halted and stared at the audience of candidates.


    A few gulping sounds were heard as being so young, some of the candidates felt a little bit intimidated by her stare. Still, those were only the minors as many teenagers showed more bold and confident looks.


    <em>''Heh, we have some brave rascals; I''m curious to see their performance...''</em> The witch hat woman thought to herself with a smile before she cleared her throat, preparing to speak.


    "Ahem, greetings aspiring students, my name is Grumple, an instructor of the ways of Mystic Magic. I would first like to wee you all to our Royal Branch Academy. Today is the day of the trials, and there might be many of you, but I''m sorry to say that only a hundred of you lot can join the academy."


    Most of these students showed no reactions as this wasmon knowledge, but some who came from far ces had pale expressions. One teenager stood out as heined.


    "That''s unfair!"


    Grumple, just like her name, wasn''t an easy-going woman, her mean look turning even scarier as she red at the brat that had spoken out. Instantly, a terrifying suppression formed over the boy, causing him to feel like he was suffocating. The child shivered in fear before shrinking back.


    Not long after, the pressure vanished, Grumple then snorted as she spoke, "You''re a bit bolder than most, child. Though you stepped out of ce, I won''t hold you for your disrespect today, but there better not be a second time. Is that understood?"


    Melson looked at this scene with interest as Grevlin and Anna didn''t seem moved; Jae snickered as he thought to himself, <em>''Such an idiot.''</em>


    The teenager gulped and nodded like a bird pecking for worms; Grumple no longer paid him any mind, ignoring some of the candidates'' now fearful looking eyes before she continued speaking.


    "Good, now back to the topic, two of you have already passed the assessment and are pre-enrolled. I will ask for you both to remain within the field as someone will guide you to your instructors, but as for everyone else, prepare yourselves for the trials shall now begin!"


    Following her words, her staff tapped the ground before causing a loud rumble to sound nearby. Soon, the floor began to open as the earth shook slightly.


    While some candidates were rmed, many were used to magic and mechanisms of such sort being born in this world. As such, they were idly discussing Grumple''s words.


    "Who do you think are the lucky pre-enrolled students?"


    "No idea, but since they''re pre-enrolled, their status and strength have got to be quite rming."


    Many of the others chatted with curious eyes, but Melson and Jae had pensive looks on their faces. It didn''t take long for the changes to finish as an underground passage had appeared before everyone''s eyes.


    Grumple then looked at everyone and spoke, "The passage is open, now go on kiddo''s, show us what you''ve all got! The first ny-eight to exit from this tunnel will be the newly enrolled students."


    When all candidates heard this, no one hesitated anymore. Quickly, they bolted down the stairways towards the tunnel, with many of them vanishing soon after.


    As everyone moved, only Grevlin and Anna stood silently, watching the scene with interest. Jae and Melson, who had been eyeing Grevlin, showed puzzled looks, but that didn''tst long as they pressed onwards.


    "I''m going first; let''s see if you can catch up!" Melson said as he nced at Nero before focusing ahead of him once more. His body glowed in a bright white light, which soon faded as his figure was now three meters down towards the entrance.


    Jae also left, but he didn''t speak to Grevlin like Melson did; he quickly employed a unique movement skill, causing his body to traverse as if he were skating on the ground, using the earth to pull his body forward.


    Grumple looked at this with interest, as did many instructors; they could feel the powers from both Jae and Melson, which caused their expressions to change.


    "Amazing! These two boys are at the limits for their age, such talent, I didn''t think we''d see another batch from those two pre-recruited in our exams." One instructor said.


    "Haha, these boys are good, Instructor n. Were these two the ones you came here for?" Another Instructor said.


    n had a surprised look on his face as he thought to himself, <em>''I didn''t think there would be another Limit Talent; I might have underestimated the prodigies in Ivanov. First, there was that boy who that bastard Seth imed for himself, then there came the blessing with gifts, that Wilborn has quite the unique talents and he should have already been enough for me to feel satisfied, but now... heh, it looks like I might be able to im another.''</em>


    "Instructor n?" Another of the instructor said, noticing that n had spaced out.


    n promptly recovered; a sly look shed in his eyes as he cleared his throat, preparing to speak as if he had epted both as his disciples, but right at this time, there was a change.


    "That boy with the freckles is called Melson; he was entrusted to me by an old friend. As such, today, I shall be epting him as my personal disciple."


    When everyone heard that voice, their faces showed rm, knowing who it was, even n couldn''t help but grit his teeth in regret as he heard it.


    <em>''Damn!''</em> Heined inwardly knowing it was toote.


    Not wasting a moment, all instructors turned around, facing a distant building on the campus as they spoke in unison, "Our sincere congrats to you, Academy Principal!"


    As if it heard enough, the voice spoke in a neutral tone, "Continue on, oh and by the way, I believe you''ve all kept up the time of those two children."


    With a tinge of embarrassment on their faces, the other instructors looked towards Grevlin and Anna, remembering that they were still there.


    n had a frown on his face as he looked at Grevlin, he didn''t like a bone in Seth, and it was natural that he wouldn''t like anyone named as his disciples.


    Grumple, unlike before, now showed a gentle look, her manner startling even the other instructors as she spoke, "Ah, please forgive me, so it''s you children. Truly excellent;e on quickly. You must be filled in on our school rules before anything else."


    "Yes, Miss Grumple." Both Grevlin and Anna said as they weren''t fussy about the details.


    Anna then let out a few coughs as she wiped her mouth with her rag as she left with Grevlin, who walked ahead. Soon, both left with Grumple together as they ventured towards the academy''s core areas, ready to start their first day as students. However, while school was about to begin for Grevlin, another chapter was about to unfold for his father.


    ____


    NB: "Hey guys, I will be doing special contests every month from now, from them you can win an Amazon gift card along with a copy of one of my Amazon book series. There will be twopetitions this month, one for Valentines and one for the end date of Chinese New Year. Keep an eye on my Twitter and Facebook page for more details toe in theing week."


    Facebook - /ShadowsFingers


    Twitter - /ShadowsFinger

 Chapter 62: The Seekers Union

    Chapter 62: The Seeker''s Union


    The Seeker''s Union was arge building at Ivanov''s center, many stories high with an enormouspound. It was a powerful faction found in all important cities and towns of the Alvaria Dynasty, home to all sses ofbatants and experts who roam the broadnds of Valoria.


    Whether it be locals or travelers from outside regions, many would flock towards it for a myriad of reasons, those who even aspired to be knights, even those students who''ve graduated from a Royal Branch Academy.


    This is because the Seeker''s Union''s roots run deep within the dynasty''s core, making those amongst its high and exceedingly difficult to raise ranking system, connectable to the dynasty''s core noble factions and even the Royal Pce itself.


    Other than this, the Seeker''s Union is naturally the most profitable means of livelihood forbatants. They can take missions towards distantnds, or even dangerous special zones, whether it being to y vicious mystical beasts, find hidden treasures, or other tasks. Hence, if one were to ask about the most bustling ce in any town or region, all would give the same reply, pointing towards this very union.


    Marius had already arrived before the gates of this grandpound; he stared at the ground of both young and old Seeker''s moving in and out, some having a battle-hardened and aggressive demeanor, with few being of hesitant and inexperienced look.


    <em>''It''s quite arge ce, huhu, so many brutes; I can already smell the adventure.''</em> Marius thought with a tinge of childish excitement in his heart. He had always dreamed of traveling to a different world, exploring its boundaries and crushing all things beneath his feet.


    However, that was but a fool''s dream, a wish that could nevere to fruition due to his ve-like childhood upbringing, dancing on the edge of death for more than half his current lifetime.


    Marius shook his head, clearing away the gloomy mood. He then took a hurried step into the building, as if fearing it would vanish, but as he did this, arge individual who wasn''t watching where he was going bumped into his shoulder.


    Though Marius was many times smaller than the other, the person pushed back was none other than the opposing party. Marius didn''t even say a word of apology as he continued onward with excitement in his eyes. However, this act had enraged the opposite party.


    "Hey, what do you think you''re doing? Apologize for your absentmindedness!" The rough voice said.


    "Hmm, what''s that?" Marius murmured as if he only now paid attention to the other party; he was originally nning on letting it pass since he was in a hurry. Still, now that he have taken the initiative tobel him as the offender, he would teach him a lesson.


    This person was also an Artiman, but his size was very simr to that of the Mantar Brakan. He had a broad face with big eyes, a scar on his cheek, short brown hair, and an extremely robust figure with pulsing muscles that seemed as if they would pop out with a light flex; he shouldered a giant de on his back and wore fine but patchy heavy armor.


    This man carried a fierce aura as if he was ready to erupt at Marius, but as he heard Marius word''s, he couldn''t help but show a strange expression, even more so when he saw the eyes Marius stared at him with as he nted his head. They were an emotionless set of eyes, both of which seemed to have peered at the depths of hell and returned unharmed.


    At this moment, no matter how many life and death battle''s this man had fought. He couldn''t help but feel startled and fearful when he saw Marius''s look, fearing that if he did something foolish, he would certainly die today.


    The scene remained quiet for a while as if only Marius and the man existed, but as time passed, it only grew darker as if it was only moments away from tragedy.


    Not hesitating anymore, the man hurriedly bowed his head as low as possible as he sped his hands in a humble posture and replied, "I... I''m sorry, I don''t know what came over me; I didn''t mean to offend sir over such a silly matter."


    Marius, hearing what he wanted, nodded his head with a satisfied look. His imposing manner vanished as he revealed a normal and friendly attitude when he spoke, "Haha, big guy, I say you''re rather adorable, and here I didn''t think you''d break so soon. Heh, it truly looks like size doesn''t matter, oh well, I''m headed in, let''s meet again sometime."


    When Marius left him behind, therge man sighed in relief, but as if someone caught sight of his humiliation, a mocking voice sounded from nearby.


    "Herculean, is that you? Hahaha, I never thought I''d see the day a man like you act no different from a bitch. Hehe, it looks like I need to show you how to be a man!" A slender but ugly looking man said, his face much like that of a rat''s as he wore fine armor with a dagger at his waist.


    Herculean nced at the man and scoffed, "Rat Wringman, don''te mouthing off in my face, remember, I can teach you a lesson just like those times. As for that man, why don''t you go provoke him yourself? Hehe, it would be nice if someone got you down from your high horse simply because of a little sess."


    After Herculean said those words, he didn''t bother with Rat anymore; he went off towards the gates'' direction, aiming to do his new mission.


    Rat had an even uglier look on his face, even more so when Herculean reminded him of his sore spot; he snorted and spat on the ground before moving towards the Seeker''s Union, no longer paying his words'' any mind.


    Nevertheless, though themotion had ended, another noticed the scene of Marius suppressing Herculean.


    A calm looking man that had azy manner, with grass shoots in his mouth and a straw hat, he eased himself up a bit and peeked towards the direction Marius left with a smile at the corner of his lips while thinking to himself.


    "And so, a new dragon has found its way into our den of tigers. things should get fun around here..."


    The man murmured before he closed his eyes, falling asleep without a care in the world.


    ____


    NB: "Hey guys, I will be doing special contests every month from now, from them you can win an Amazon gift card along with a copy of one of my Amazon book series. There will be twopetitions this month, one for Valentines and one for the end date of Chinese New Year. Keep an eye on my Twitter and Facebook page for more details toe in theing week."


    Facebook - /ShadowsFingers


    Twitter - /ShadowsFinger

 Chapter 63: The Dwarf Named Torn

    Chapter 63: The Dwarf Named Torn


    Marius had arrived at a broad room with manyrge boards with papers scattered about it, some with fierce-looking faces belonging to both man and beast. Curiously, some were a cross in between all kinds, with many of them being those of the Mantar race.


    <em>''Oh, so I guess that those are bounties, or maybe quests like in those role-ying video games.''</em>


    Marius thought with interest in his eyes as he looked at the scene, but after looking at them for a bit, he didn''t waste any more time but traveled towards the nearest counter.


    While walking, he bypassed quite a few tables filled with various persons, be it bunny ears people, elf-like people,rge-bodied men and women a size close to Herculean, and other mixed varieties.


    Even young teens fresh in their fifteens were moving about in groups, guided by aged men and women in armor as they carriedrge bags of weapons as if going on a hunting trip.


    The air here was even livelier than that of the Fallen Star Inn''s, but that didn''t mean anything to everyone else as they carried on as if it were normal.


    "Right this way, those looking to sign up, you cane over here!" A heavy voice said from a small counter on one side.


    Marius and few others who seemed a bit new turned their sights over, but unlike everyone else, Marius, who looked over, showed a surprising look in his eyes when he thought.


    <em>''Is that the dwarf from the movie about that ring with the swordsmen and that cute little creature?''</em>


    Marius was a bit surprised as the dwarf shared a simr appearance to that movie entity, but he saw differences as he gave it a good look. Mostly, the beard and mustache, each of which was ck and curled.


    Marius shook off his surprise as he went over, but while moving, he couldn''t help but narrow his eyes as he noticed that a few malicious eyes were staring at them at various corners of therge room. In fact, he felt that most of those gazes had a tinge of mock, with few being pity.


    <em>''Heh, let''s see what you guys are ying at...''</em>


    Marius thought, feeling a bit excited, he didn''t mind having a little fun before returning home to his lovely family.


    The dwarf made a warm smile as he saw everyone arrived, his eyes squinting, showing a very gentle and warm appearance as he spoke, "Wee, I can see that you are all interested in joining our Seeker''s Union. You must each be a hero of your own right. Come quickly, I shall help each of you process all the necessary documents and details, then we''ll get through to testing."


    A few at the front of the line showed excited looks as they hurried to step up one by one to process their applications. However, those at the back of the line had different expressions on their faces.


    When Marius arrived behind the farthest individual, he couldn''t help but overhear some discontented whispers.


    "Che! It''s that Torn again, st, wasn''t it supposed to be Lisa''s turn with the inspections?" A youngd with brown hair said.


    "It''s out luck; I just heard that Lisa had to turn in due to some sickness, now we''ll have to go through that harsh Drilling Field eptance test by that darn Torn. I wish I had just followed my guts and left today," A stocky man said with a look of regret on his face.


    "What? Are you serious?" A timid looking man in the rear of the line eximed.


    "Hey, do I look like I''m joking to you? I''ve seen it before!" The stocky man said with a hint of terror in his eyes.


    The timid man gulped as he looked left and right before turning around and speaking offhandedly, "Well, I''m not feeling so well, I think I''lle back another..."


    The timid man was about to finish his words while leaving the area, but who would have thought that things wouldn''t go his way. Suddenly, the timid man bumped into the hairy chest of arge man with a violent air, ring down at him as if he was like an ant.


    With a gulp, the timid man took a step back as he stared at him before he spoke, "S-Sir, would you please excuse me? I would like to le..."


    "No adult leaves the Seeker''s Union as they please. If you enter the Seeker''s Union as a nonmember, then it is a written rule that you must register and take part in apulsory test. Only after failing or passing will you be granted the right to leave..."


    The timid man had a startled look on his face when he heard those words, as did many others who didn''t know; someone with more guts stepped out of the line and shouted, "Hey! Who do you think you are to tell us what we can and can''t do? If I want to leave today, who will stop me?"


    When a few other Seeker''s heard this, they looked on with mocking gazes as some showed pity for the speaker. As expected, when the man finished his words, Torn, who sat behind the counter, frowned; he nced at another person who had blocked off the path and nodded.


    The new Seeker Candidates looked at this with worry; they watched as another person walked towards the speaker and pped him across his face, causing him to spin in the air and crash onto a table.The man then fidgeted before he lost consciousness, with frothing out of his mouth.


    "Is there anyone else who would like to speak out about the rules of our union?" Torn said with a cold tone as now, one of his squinted eyes had opened, showing a look far different from his usual kind appearance.


    The candidates trembled as no one dared to utter a sound of rejection. Torn then nodded, showing his usual gentle demeanor as he spoke, "Come quickly, we must hurry and finish the signing, then you must pay all your fees and go to the Drilling Grounds."


    The candidates gulped as they forcefully swallowed their feelings of pride and did as they were told. It was soon Marius''s turn; Torn looked at him with a strange look as, unlike everyone else, he didn''t show fear.


    "That''ll be 15 Krills," Torn said as he stretched out his broad palm and crusty-looking palm; he intentionally made the price five more than the others.


    Marius smirked and ced the krills in his palm; he then took up the token that everyone had received and followed along with the others towards the special grounds.


    As he grasped the krills tightly, Torn nced at Marius''s back with sharp eyes as he thought to himself, <em>''I really want to see what you are truly made from...''</em>


    With that thought in mind, he called someone over as much to the surprise of everyone else. He had personally left to supervise this time''s inspection, bringing a startle to everyone gathered as if a grand event was about to begin.<ol><li data-annotation-id="954fe7c9-631e-6a4b-9cbd-bff6692d8e03">:)</li></ol>

 Chapter 64: A Peculiar Girl, The Drilling Grounds

    Chapter 64: A Peculiar Girl, The Drilling Grounds


    The Drilling Grounds was a wide and spacious field within the Seeker''s Unionpound, a ce fitted with several odd constructs and various mechanisms used to aspiring Seekers. Looking even further, one would see dirt pits, fighting rings, and many other objects.


    A lizard faced examiner had brought Marius and the other Seeker Candidates in a broad and spacious circr-shaped battle ring. Here, erected spike traps had surrounded all corners with high hanging chain balls on each side. The harsh-looking concrete floor sttered with fresh bloodstains along with broken weapons, some having a rusted look as if they''ve been in that spot for quite some years.


    Inspecting the ground a bit more, one would see fissures as if the weapons had scarred it, with some areas seeming to have suffered from w marks. Just by looking at the scene, many of the candidates began sweating with fear in their eyes.


    Marius had a look of interest as he saw the ring; he stooped down and took up a rusted weapon, he gave it a light swing, but as it moved, the de broke from its handle before crashing onto the floor with a nking noise.


    ''<em>Well, these weapons are pretty much done for, must have been here for a long time.''</em>


    Marius thought with curious eyes.


    A few of the candidates gave Marius a look because of the sudden disturbance. Within them was a slender and short figure with clothing wrapped over their face, revealing only a pair of lively almond-shaped eyes that glistened with pureness.


    "Hehe, I say big uncle, you surely are a troublemaker." A soft and cute-ish voice said.


    Marius nced at the form and shook his head as he replied, "Little girl, who are you calling an uncle? I bet I''m still younger than your dad."


    "Hehe, uncle, it''s not good to lie, buts it''s okay; I know that you old men like to feel younger. A little note though, I''m not a little girl; I''m eighteen this year." The petite girl said cheekily at Marius shaking her magical staff held in her hand.


    "Eighteen? Yeah right, kids these days," Marius uttered as he rolled his eyes. The other candidates looked at the two with strange looks. However, unlike everyone else, the lizard faced examiner red at the two of them as he shouted, "Hey, less meddling and more focus!"


    "Sure, sure," Marius said as he shrugged his shoulders as if saying it wasn''t that big of a deal.


    The strange mage-like girl only tittered as she held her staff, showing a look of no care.


    "You..." The examiner said with an angry look on his reptile-like face, he was about to angrily explode for being treated so lightly, but before anything could happen, Torn''s small figure had arrived at his side.


    "Hey, Repton, quit wasting time; I didn''t attend to see you guys act like children, so hurry on with the tests!" Torn said as he pped Repton''s back.


    "Ouch!" Repton groaned. He felt even angrier, but as he saw the stern-looking face of Torn, he didn''t dare to counter-argue.


    Torn took this chance to size up Marius once again, but when his eyes shifted onto the girl, they couldn''t help but flicker with surprise as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Well, I''ll be; it''s that Leya Paltine; I didn''t know that thezy and overprotective bloke would even send that prized daughter of his here. Ha, no wonder such persons had joined this batch of spectators.''</em>


    When his thoughts reached here, his eyes nced at this batch of onlookers standing at various areas, some being shrouded by the dark with stern gazes while most others had looks of ease and interest.


    Torn smirked, saying nothing more, but for Repton, he nced at both Leya and Marius with a fierce look before looking at the candidates and speaking.


    "Everyone, we will finallymence with the testing phase. As you can see before you, we are within the battle ring of the Drilling Grounds. It is here you will receive the most efficient tests of all, meant to recruit only the finest. Do not fear; no one will die; if anything unexcepted happens, I''m sure one of the random Seekers somewhere can do something about it. Besides, we do have apetent medical staff; even death isn''t necessarily irreversible."


    When Repton said this, he noticed that the look in the eyes of candidates turned darker, feeling a harsh stare from Torn at the back of his neck. He sweated as he hurriedly continued his statement.


    "Ahem, enough about that, you shall each be taking part in the battle simultaneously; your only goal is to stay conscious within that ring for as long as you possibly can. Let us begin!"


    Both Repton and Torn made a jumping motion, blurring and appearing on a podium outside of the battle ring with his shout.


    <em>''Hmm, it''s finally starting, I wonder, what will it be to rear its head?''</em>


    Marius thought with a fascinated look in his eyes, his fist clenching tightly.


    <em>''Father, humph! I''m not a little girl anymore; I''ll show you today that I''m better than all those worthless Seekers!'' </em>


    Leya thought with a rebellious expression on her face as she firmly gripped her staff.


    Both Leya and Marius burned with a fighting spirit, but as for the others, they only trembled and showed looks of fear, knowing full well of the dreaded rumors for what''s toe.


    Rumble! Soon after, the earth started to shake as multiple beams of light erupted from all corners of the ring''s spike pits, forming into what seemed like a cage.


    Once this happened, two separate corners of the battle ring started to rise, showing what seemed like a gate with metal bars. A few dreadful roars of unusual creatures sounded from behind each gate, as one could even hear both soil and metal being scratched.


    Seconds after, a few red lights lit up from the darkness behind gates, showing a multitude of savage-looking eyes that red at the Seekers like prey.


    Torn watched this from the side with a smirk as many spectator''s eyes lit up when Repton pped his hands, creating a resounded boom as he shouted, "Commence the Drilling Trials!"

 Chapter 65: Leyas Skills, The Overwhelming Marius

    Chapter 65: Leya''s Skills, The Overwhelming Marius


    "Ahhhhh!" A pitiful cry sounded as a man was ruthlessly tossed into the sky by arge creature. His shoulder had previously been bit by its razor-sharp teeth, causing it to spew out arge amount of blood.


    A few others also made simrly pitiful cries, but they suffered from many different creatures, ranging from dinosaur-like beasts, mystical looking animals such as ming Horn Boars and others, each of which continued to rush from the two pathways at the edges of the stage.


    Bang! A chain ball that swung randomly from the side smashed into a candidate pushing him towards the spike pits, the candidate who groaned in pain had a look of terror in his eyes as he could see his life shing below him.


    However, before he could meet that fate, a figure blurred and appeared beside him and bringing him towards the outside of the battle ring.


    "Disqualified!" Repton''s voice sounded about the area, as the battle for survival in the ring continued fiercely, the crowd of seekers who observed from distant ces made no cheers, but discussed with interest.


    "Haha, most of this batch is just a bunch of amateurs; I don''t know where they got the confidence toe here. It looks like they''ll be feeding the union with timely needed funds." A pointed beard man with a hat and a bow on his back said with mock.


    "Hehe, indeed, but... it''s not like they''re all bad, that girl is pretty good, and as for that handsome fellow, I can''t see his limits, such a rowdy man..." A busty orange-haired woman said as she licked her lips, fixing her eyes onto Marius after she glossed over Leya.


    The pointed beard man rolled his eyes at her words, but he didn''t deny it. Marius, in his opinion, was a monster. Still, his eyes didn''t fixpletely on Marius but Leya.


    "Odd, she''s so familiar, don''t you think?" The person said.


    The mature beauty shook her head as she replied, "You''re right, but I doubt it''s anyone too important. Oh, look, she''s about to fight that Iron Tail Fox, hehe, let''s see how she fairs against it."


    The pointed beard man narrowed his eyes as he observed the battle ring more intently, not wanting to miss a scene.


    At this time, the chaos only grew more intense as more and more persons had fallen due to the creatures and dangerous obstacles that struck at random.


    Leya stood in a single position with her magic robe fluttering due to her ever-so-increasing Mystic Power.


    The Iron Tail Fox being a fox twice the size of an ordinary one with a metallic-like tail, dashed across the field towards, its eyes ring at her as it roared savagely. All candidates in its path were brutally pushed aside by its tail that swept about at blur-like speeds, causing bone-crushing sounds and painful shrieks to sound about the battle ring.


    <em>''Hmph! I''m not like those shrimps!''</em>


    As the cloth wrapped around her face loosened, her beautiful red lips and small nose became vaguely viewable as she pointed her staff forward and invoked.


    "Mystic Barrier!"


    Following her shout, a bright light shone from her staff, which formed a sphere-shaped barrier around her body. When this happened, the Iron Tail Fox had already arrived upon her; it swung its tail without hesitation, making swooshing noise through the wind before it smashed into the barrier.


    Bang! A loud explosive sound resounded as even dust had formed in the area, but once it cleared, it only revealed the unphased Leya who stood at the center of her slightly cracked barrier.


    "Darn animal, go to hell! Mystic Arrow!"


    With another of her invocations, a bright light shone at Leya''s magic staff''s tip, which fired off an arrow towards the Iron Tail Fox. As it sensed the danger, the Iron Tail Fox wanted to avoid it, but sadly, it was too slow to make any attempts.


    Puff! The sound of something piercing flesh sounded as the arrow bore through its head, causing it to fall onto the ground as a corpse.


    Leya exhaled with relief as she saw this scene; she wiped the sweat from her forehead while staring around at the chaos as she thought to herself.


    "That''s my fifth monster; I wonder, how many have that uncle killed so far?''


    With those thoughts in mind, Leya leisurely took the change to scan the battle ring, a few chain balls swung here and there, with one of them smashing into her barrier, but as if they weren''t mentioned, they only bounced backward with even greater force, crushing any candidate in its path.


    "Ahh! That darn girl, don''t get near her!" A strong candidate said as he was forced back by the chain ball repelled by Leya''s barrier, many others looked at this in fear, not daring to stay in her vicinity.


    "Weaklings!" Leya said as she stuck out her tongue, acting like a brat, which suited her tiny figure.


    Many of them felt discontented, but they didn''t bother toin; they had alreadybeled her as the second most dangerous monster in the battle ring. As for the first, the idle Leya just so happened to have caught sight of him, her eyes and mouth widening in shock as if she saw an unforgettable scene.


    The corpses of dozens of creatures littered the floor, some beingrger than even Herculean whom Marius had met. They were stacked on top of each other, creating a corpse mountain as Marius stand atop of it with his arms crossed behind his back, his demeanor no different from any sage. That was except for the strange song that he sang at the top of his voice.


    ? "Legends never die when the world is calling you... Can you hear them screeaammmiiiing out your naaaammmeeee? Legends never die they be a part of you..."


    The audience stared at him with odd looks as some of the women had shing eyes; even Leya couldn''t help but tilt her head as she thought.


    ''This uncle, he''s so strong, yet strange... what song is that?''


    She thought, eyes shing with curiosity.


    Others had the same thoughts, but as this ring was a battlefield, there was a monster who naturally saw Marius''s arrogant manner as a sign of provocation.


    Suddenly, a mighty looking ape twice the size of Herculean had stomped its way towards him, shaking the battle ring; it had crossed shaped scar on its face and an absurdly robust build.


    "Not good, that''s an Elite Berserk Ape; who the hell sent something like this for the new candidate''s assessment?" A person from the onlookers said in rm; many others also shared their discontent.


    "Quick, get out of the way!" A few of the other Seeker Candidates said in horror as they scurried about the battle ring. Luckily for them, the Elite Berserk Ape didn''t put them in its eyes.


    Roar! The ape made a fierce battle cry as it jumped from the ground and struck out its giant fist towards Marius.


    Unlike those onlookers who had looks of wonder, the more powerful watched this scene with interest as even Torn and Repton looked on with deep eyes.


    <em>''Hmph! I sent that in there just for you, big guy. Let''s see if you can still act so tough now.''</em> Repton thought as he red at Marius.


    Torn snickered as he nced at Repton but said nothing; his only interest was the extent of Marius''s strength.


    <em>''So arrogant, but you have the power to its right, let''s see how you face off against a Third Star E ss Monster.''</em>


    Torn thought with a sharp look in his eyes.


    Leya naturally saw this change; her face turned pale as she shouted, "Uncle, watch out!"


    She prepared to try and help him out with a spell, but Marius merely gave her cheeky a wink. He then nced at the ape as his eyes shed before showing the iing monster''s details.


    ____


    [<strong>Elite Berserk Ape</strong>]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Mystic Beast]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 29]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Strength</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Dexterity</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Abilities</strong>: Berserk Fist, Kong Smasher]


    ____


    "Oh, since you''re bold enough to disrupt my song, you should be fearless enough to be a part of the pile."


    With those words said, Marius''s body then erupted a towering Mystic Power as his presence became overwhelming. In an instant, he seemed as if a giant that was over-looking the world, making even the brutal Elite Berserk Ape shiver due to the pressure.


    At this moment, every fiber of its being was telling it to flee, but sadly, it was already toote.


    "Aerial Submission Palm..." Marius''s cold and emotionless voice sounded as he reached his palm downwards, causing everyone to suck in a breath of fresh air as they saw an incredible scene

 Chapter 66: Passing the Trials

    Chapter 66: Passing the Trials


    A giant semi-transparent palm had grasped the body of the raging Elite Berserk Ape; confused by its sudden predicament, the ape looked around while struggling to move its limbs.


    As it struggled, it noticed that Marius was looking at it with a teasing smile as he held his hand forward, a strand of energy trailing from it into the giant palm that held its body in ce.


    Instantly, the Elite Berserk Ape became angrier, its eyes glowing in brighter red lights as its body erupted with a terrifying mystic power.


    "Rooooaaar!"


    It made a savage battle cry as it was clear that it had entered a berserk state which was well suited to its name. However, regardless of its attempt to free itself with its newly empowered physique, it found that it could not move in the slightest.


    "Hoo!" The ape whimpered as its berserk eyes became tamed as it looked at Marius in fear; it seemed that it didn''t want to lose its life.


    The others that watched this scene looked on with shock as they showed pensive expressions while others eximed.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me; that''s a darn Third Star E ss monster, and certainly not the average type in its rank; how the hell could this guy so easily suppress it?" One person said in rm.


    Repton''s eyes shook when he saw the scene; even he wouldn''t be able to properly fight a monster of that standard, much less crush it into a pile of messy flesh. He gulped while trembling as he muttered, "I... I''ve really done it now."


    Torn looked at this with a flicker in his eyes as he thought to himself, <em>''As I thought, his strength isparable to a Titled Warrior, and if he so wishes he could even be a Battalion Leader. I wonder, why haven''t I heard of him?''</em>


    Leya had her mouth opened in shock as she looked at the godlike scene, her pupils reflecting as Marius made a gripping motion, the giant arm violently gripping the ape as everyone heard bone-crushing sounds. Soon, blood spewed from the sky as with the cries of the Elite Berserk Ape; Marius smashed its body into the pile of the corpse mountain.


    <em>''This uncle, he sure is a monster. Hehe, I must find a way to join his party!''</em>


    Leya thought with shining eyes as she stared at the dominant form that stood on the lone mountain of corpses.


    Not only her, but many other Seekers who observed from the audience had thought to the same. A few silhouettes were standing at different corners, and even some kept a low profile in the battle ring.


    One of them was a meek-looking young man with short ck hair that fell down over his eyes; he wore long-sleeved clothing with leather armor as his arms were buried in his sleeves as he hunched himself forward in a poor posture.


    On another side was an archer with arge hat hiding their face, leaving only a red ponytail; they wore clothing akin to a ssic martial arts battle uniform as a quiver was strapped to their back.


    With his eyes glossing over these persons, Torn made a satisfied smile as he wrapped up his thoughts; he then pped his hands, his palm sending a powerful ripple about the room.


    With his actions, everyone who had previously been fighting and dodging the ring''s hazards turned their attention towards him. In fact, even the monsters had retreated as the vicious obstacles had started to recede.


    Everyone''s faces became excited as they knew that they had more or likely passed the Drilling Trials.


    Torn, seeing their expressions smirked as he spoke, "Good, this trial is over, each of you who are standing in this ring today are the new Seekers of our union! Congrats to you all!"


    When all candidates heard this, their eyes beamed with excitement as they raised their weapons into the air to cheer andughthe atmosphere filled with joy as if they had served a great ordeal.


    "Whew! That was a hassle."


    Leya said as she wiped the sweat from her forehead, the cloth that covered her face a bit disordered as it revealed a beautiful face with bright red lips and a small nose. Her hair was short and of a dark blue hue.


    "If you''re tired from this, you shouldn''t be here, kid." A voice said as a figure appear nearby.


    "Hmph! Speak for yourself," Leya said as she seemed to know the owner, it was a short man with a long point, garbed like a monk, but his manner was vastly different.


    He stared at her with a good look, but Leya didn''t shy away and looked back at him with a set of firm and determined eyes. The man sighed before he turned around and spoke, "Fine since you''ve made it this far, this old man will let it pass. I''ll speak to thatzy father of yours. Take care not to get yourself killed out there."


    With those words said, the man flickered and vanished from the ring, his appearance gone unnoticed to many eyes, all except for Torn and Marius, who had finally dismounted his corpse mountain.


    Marius gave Leya a look but thought nothing of it as he turned his attention elsewhere while pondering.


    ''Good, with this, I should have be an official Seeker, heh, my lovely wife will be proud.''


    Thinking of what kind of reward, he will get for this achievement, Marius''s face made a look all men could understand. Leya was about toe over and say something, but as she saw the strange look on Marius'' face, she hesitated.


    Naturally, as an inexperienced young girl, sheltered all her life, Leya didn''t understand such a look. She made an odd look as she thought, <em>''This uncle is really strange, why is he making that kind of face?''</em>


    Leya was now pondering Marius''s strangeness, but hidden within the crowd of departing Seeker''s that came to observe. A familiar rat-like face was currently eyeing the scene with sharp eyes.


    "Oh, it turns out that he was more capable than I thought, it looks like that Herculean wasn''t all talk." Rat Wringman said as he stared at Marius with narrowed eyes.


    At this time, the pointed beard man with a hat and a bow on his back was walking along with the familiar busty bodied woman with orange hair. They went by Rat Wringman without even ncing at him.


    Rat Wringman red at them while in thought, <em>''Ke, the re Mage, and Hoffman, the Gold Bowman. I didn''t they would show up here, it looks like someone must have caught their interest, probably that man... maybe I should try to recruit him before everyone else.''</em>


    Rat Wringman then left the area in a hurry with his thoughts set, not daring to waste time.


    After giving the candidates time to recover a bit, Torn finally spoke again to everyone as he gestured towards arge door.


    "Good, now follow me; I shall be handing out each of your Seeker Emblems, after which, I will be going over the rules."


    With those words said, Torn turned around and walked towards another room; Marius smiled at this as he moved along with the crowd and spective Leya, who walked a little distance away. His eyes shing as he thought to himself, ''I wonder, what''s that wife of mine up to?''


    With those thoughts in mind, Marius''s figure soon vanished behind therge door along with the crowd of newly appointed Seekers, but as he readied himself for a new activity, so did Ria and the little Rose who was about to have a big day.

 Chapter 67: A Little Girls Big Day 1

    Chapter 67: A Little Girl''s Big Day 1


    The day was a wonderful picture for those in Ivanov; many travelers roamed the streets as they set off on various activities, some seeking adventure as others sought other affairs.


    The time was approaching that of noon, the street even more bustling than its earlier hours as a familiar pair walked amidst the crowd.


    "Mama, where are we going?" Little Rose asked with a curious set of eyes, the adorable little angel now being pulled by her mother with on hand as she looked up at her.


    Ria scanned the surroundings carefully before she looked down at her daughter and spoke, "Do you remember that game I talked about?"


    "A game?" Little Rose muttered with a hint of confusion on her face; she stunned up her cheeks and struggled to make a thoughtful look before her eyes shed with realization.


    Instantly, her face beamed with excitement as she spoke in a happy tone, "Yay game! Mama, I want to y that game!"


    Little Rose smiled at this, rubbing her daughter''s head as she replied, "That''s my good girl, nowe along, let''s go y. Remember, do as I instructed while you search me; if you can find me before I finish my count, then I will give you the biggest surprise."


    "Okay!" Little Rose said with eagerness, the adorable girl seeming to be ready to go on an adventurer.


    Ria smiled at this before doing something that only the world''s most irresponsible mother would do, she vanished, leaving behind the poor and helpless little girl in the middle of the crowded street.


    Oddly enough, no one noticed when the beauty of her standard had vanished, but some soon realized that the girl was idly standing looking around with the appearance of a lost little girl.


    Suddenly, a gentle-looking middle-aged woman with plump features who happened to see her walked over and stooped down before speaking.


    "Oh dear, little one, why are you here by yourself? Where''s your mother?"


    A bit dazed, Little Rose snapped back to her senses; she looked at the strange olddy before taking a step back before speaking.


    "M-mother said not to talk to strangers."


    The middle-ageddy showed eyes filled with love as she spoke with the prize, "That''s a good little girl, true you should never talk to strangers, but whenever you find yourself in a pinch, you must take aid from kind,w-abiding citizens. I can see that you''re very smart and adorable, why not follow this olddy? I''ll take you to your mother."


    Little Rose showed an even more cautious look, taking another step back as she stared at thedy; she spoke while pointing her finger at her.


    "No, you''re a bad person, Mama said not to get close to a bad person! I''m going to tell Mama!"


    Little Rose turned and ran towards a different direction after saying her words, the tiny and wobbly legs pping through the crowd of giants, no different from a small chick in a dense of lions, it seemed as if she could fall over at any second and fall into demise.


    "Oh no, where did this little angele from?" A concerned woman said as she saw her running by her.


    "Be careful; someone get that little girl to safety!" Another person said in rm, seeing a savage-looking bull-like beast being ridden by a sturdy man, rushing through the street at full speed.


    Oddly enough, the person riding the bull had a conical hat on his face, dressed in piles of dark-colored cloth that hid his features. As if he saw Little Rose, his eyes underneath his hat showed a sharp gleam as he vaguely urged the mount faster, pretending not to see anything.


    "Nooo!" A woman cried out, seeing that Little Rose was now directly on the collision course.


    At this time, Little Rose, who had been running, seemed to have noticed the mount at thest minute. No, it could be said that she wasn''t even paying attention to anything; Instead, what she saw as something that her mother had taught her since young. A dark sinister energy flowing from the man as it seeped into her body, giving her both a slightly enjoyable but annoying feeling.


    "That man is bad! I I''m going to tell Dadda!"


    Little Rose said as she looked at the man with her adorable eyes showing a tinge of anger; she saw that the bull was roaring towards her vaguely with every intent to destroy her, but rather than showing fear, little rose did something unthinkable.


    With a sturdy pushed of her legs, her figure leaped forward and vanished at the veryst second the mounter warrior was supposed to hit her. Naturally, no one seemed to have clearly noticed this scene as all they saw was the mounter warrior, running through her before continuing on its way as if nothing happened.


    "Kyaaa!" A woman screamed as she fell onto her knees, closing her eyes as she feared to look at the situation.


    Some other women and weak-willed men also looked away while sighing with pity on their faces. Still, this scene didn''tst long as only after a little while did everyone find the situation a bit strange.


    "Hey, look, she isn''t there!" One person said with rm.


    "What? How?" Some person said as they turned to look at the scene more clearly, noticing that there wasn''t even a sign of blood, much less a corpse, the eyes of everyone turning strange as they wondered if they just saw an illusion, all but one person.


    The middle-aged woman, whose eyes were closed with a kind look, turned to face the direction Little Rose went. After a brief moment, her eyes opened as her face transformed entirely.


    This wasn''t a gentle look anymore, but a look of a seasoned predator, her eyes sharp and emotionless as she frowned when looking at the scene.


    "Mission failed, send word to the second-team..." The woman said through amunication device with magical runes.


    "Understood." A voice said from the device before hanging up.


    The woman''s eyes narrowed when staring fixedly in the direction, the bull rider vanished. The scene here though mysterious, taking a slightly dark vibe as everyone continued about their business.


    ***


    A distance away from the previous location, Little Rose was now running through an abandoned alleyway. After a little while, her small body halted as she showed an exhausted look and flopped over onto her buttocks.


    The pitiful little girl seemed to be in a bad state as she panted for breath. It took her a short while to get herself together. Picking herself up from the ground in a wobbly manner before she looked around her newfound location with wonder. However, after staring at the gloomy concrete walls, with suspicious stains, and even hearing the light sounds of distant and creepy whispers, she started to feel afraid.


    "I want mama!" Little Rose said, not feeling so excited anymore.


    She thought for a bit before her eyes flickered as she just remembered the rules of her mother''s game.


    "Mama said that if I wish for reallllly hard... I... I can find Mama!" Little Rose said with an innocent look on her face as she then closed her eyes, falling into a strange state.


    Her breath turned longer, as she seemed as if she was floating. Instantly as if the world around her had transformed, everything had faded as a strange scene urred.


    ____


    <strong>NB:</strong> "Hey guys, I will be doing special contests every month from now, from them you can win an Amazon gift card along with a copy of one of my Amazon book series. There will be twopetitions this month, one for Valentines and one for the end date of Chinese New Year. Keep an eye on my Twitter and Facebook page for more details toe in theing week."


    Facebook - /ShadowsFingers


    Twitter - /ShadowsFinger

 Chapter 68: A Little Girls Big Day 2

    Chapter 68: A Little Girl''s Big Day 2


    Ba-thump! Ba-thump! Ba-thump!


    The resonant sounds of a beating heart sounded at the core of a dark world, one in which a sole figure stood silently. Looking at this figure, whose body glowed in radiant purple lights, they would find that it wasn''t a grown man or woman but a small child.


    The small and adorable little green-haired girl, looking around this dark world with confusion and fear in her bright and curious purple eyes.


    "Mama! I want Mama!"


    Little Rose asked as she looked around anxiously, but no matter where she looked, she only saw darkness, hearing only the sounds of a pulsing heartbeat.


    Not daring to stay in one ce for long, Little Rose hurriedly run through the darkness while shouting, "Mama, Mama, I''m scared!"


    The tiny form running through this empty world, alone and frightened if it''s unknown, it didn''t take long for her to reach her limit, filled with exhaustion as she slumped over onto the non-existent ground.


    Ba-thump! Ba-thump! Ba-thump!


    The heartbeat''s pulsing sounds still sounding in her ears, but only louder as if its source was nearby.


    "I... I want Mama! Uuuu!"


    Little Rose yelled as she curled up like a ball and crying, she thought she would have found her instantly if she did as her mother said, but now she was greatly mistaken.


    The girl cried helplessly for a long while, stirring the entirety of the dark world, but soon, a strange change started to ur around her.


    Ba-thump! An even louder beat sounded almost akin to a thunderp in the outside world. Following that sound, a bright purple light started to shine from Little Rose''s body, bringing a startle to her. She wiped her eyes with her elbows looking at herself with a worried but also curious look.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Due to Infantile Host''s exceeding concentration, Hellian Heart has pre-awakened.]


    Ding!


    [By the power of host''s Hell Sense, Grim Fire''s Ego has been awakened!]


    Ding


    [Due to the host''s age limit, Grim Fire Ego is notplete.]


    ____


    Not understanding what was going on, she was about to cry again, but it was this time she recalled something her mother had told her before.


    ''My Little Rose, if you ever find yourself in darkness, then wish for light, and if you ever find light, then ask it to guide you to the one you desire.''


    Now recalling her mother''s words, Little Rose though too young, understood some of her meaning. She stared at the lights again with a little brighter look in her eyes as she spoke her thoughts out loud.


    "Mama said to use light, I can find Mama."


    With her mind made up, Little Rose tried to calm herself down as she ced both of her palms together, holding them to her chest as she spoke with her slightly broken speech, "Little Light, please help find Mama!"


    As if the purple lights understood her meaning, they flowed from her, forming into a ball of purple fire. The fireball had two pairs of adorable eyes that looked at her as it jumped up and down before making noise.


    "Yi!"


    As if she could understand its words, Little Rose felt excited; she grabbed it with her arms and spoke cutely, "Really, do you know where Mama went?"


    "Yiyi" The small purple fireball said with a look of confidence, jumping up and down in her palms.


    "Yay, Little Light, bring me Mama; I want mama!"


    Little Rose said in eagerness, seeming to have forgotten about the gloominess of this dark world. Not to disappoint her wish, the small purple fireball exploded into a raging ball of fire that wrapped around her before swallowing her and firing off into the distant darkness, no different from a stream of light.


    ***


    Back within the abandoned alleyway, Little Rose was still standing by herself with her eyes closed. She looked no different from an ordinary little child, lost and helpless in the gutters of society.


    A few shuffling sounds were soon heard as a small group of rough-looking individuals walked from the direction of main streets. They moved for a while, chatting andughing in a rowdy manner.


    "Haha, I told you, that babe fromst night was good! You should''ve joined us." A crooked nose man said with a mocking look.


    "Pssh, like hell, you know that I need to keep up the weekly quota; it''s not so easy to find gullible children anymore." A muscr man filled with scars said.


    "Ah, yes, you guys from trafficking haven''t been doing well sotely, I can understand." The crooked nose man said with an understanding expression.


    The men then continued to speak some more, but soon, they had arrived at the depths of the alleyway. Once they arrived here, they couldn''t help but notice a small female child standing still as if afraid.


    The crooked nose man''s eyes lit up as he pped the muscr man''s back and spoke, "Haha, look, you might be in luck; we''ve encountered one of those rare lost little girl cases."


    "Haha, Pen, you might just get a promotion for this kind of sudden luck." The other rough and rowdy men said.


    Pen felt excited at this; he didn''t think that he could find such a catch after a week of no-good results. He looked at her carefully and see her adorable features, making his eyes shine even further.


    <em>''I never thought I would find a child of such wonderful quality, once she''s grown up, if trained properly, she will be one of our brothel''s finest money services. Hehe, fortune favors the hardworking.''</em>


    Wile Pen thought to himself, the crooked nose man noticed the othersck vignce; he spoke, "Alright, let''s hurry in potions, we don''t know if she''ll run or if there''s some other faction in the area, let''s surround and capture her before we determine anything else."


    "Right."


    Pen and the others said as they ran at high speeds, quickly arriving around Little Rose, they then eyed the area with sharp eyes, but no matter which direction they stared, they could feel no mystical power fluctuations.


    "Haha, Pen, it looks like we were right; it''s truly just a coincidence,e let''s grab her and head back; she doesn''t seem even to be conscious." The crooked nose man said as he finally eased his worry.


    Pen nodded as he walked over to Little Rose; when he arrived closer, he couldn''t help but speak out loud.


    "Hey, you said she''s unconscious, right? But how can she be standing so perfectly still?"


    "Hmm?" The others also only realized this; the crooked nose man frowned as he now thought it was a bit strange. He soon felt a strange presence, as if his instincts were warning him of some kind of danger, but sadly, it was already toote.


    In this instance, Little Rose opened her closed eyes; a bright purple light shone from them as a brilliant purple fire scattered from her body, shrouding her entire surroundings.


    Before these men could even react, or even cry out a pitiful yell, they were burned into ashes that scattered with the daytime winds. The mes retreated around Little Rose''s figure as she finally became conscious.


    Naturally, she didn''t know of the previous situation, as right now, her attention was caught by the world, which was a bit different in her eyes.


    She could see bright lights from different areas, one of them being a light very much simr to herself, giving her a feeling of warmness as it stood in silence right behind her.


    "Mama!" Little Rose said as she ran towards Ria, who only now appeared from the shadows as if previously she had melded with the alleys'' darkness.


    Ria stooped down and picked her cute little daughter that ran into her arms, her face showing a gentle look as she spoke while kissing her cheeks.


    "That''s my good Little Rosey, who''s my cute and smart little girl."


    "Me!" Little Rose said as she rubbed her cheeks on her mother''s face.


    "Were you scared?" Ria asked with a loving voice.


    "Mm... no..." Little Rose said, tightly clenching her dress cors.


    Ria smirked at this as she properly held her with one arm and poked her fat little cheek as she spoke, "It''s not good to lie to your mother."


    Little Rose trembled a bit in her embrace before she looked up at her with herrge eyes and spoke, "Mama, I missed you."


    "Aww... my poor Little Rose, don''t worry, Mama won''t go missing again, but even if I do, you should remember that so long as you use that method, you''ll be able to find Mama, okay?"


    "Okay." Little Rose said in a cute tone of voice.


    Ria then held her and rubbed her back before looking around at the cindered ashes scene, her eyes coldly shing before returning to normal. Soon, mother and daughter had calmly left the terrifying scene, destined to go witness forever and unknown to all in this city.

 Chapter 69: Academy Rumors, The Disturbance in the Mess Hall

    Chapter 69: Academy Rumors, The Disturbance in the Mess Hall


    With the bright sun zing at the brilliant blue sky''s summits, those within the Royal Branch Academy were now resting after having quite the morning of activities. It was clear that most had gone for lunch, leaving thepound as others proceeded to do different duties.


    Naturally, the trials had already ended a long time ago as those newly chosen candidates were already undergoing the initiation process. Word of two extraordinary geniuses had sounded across the academy.


    One of them came from a famous merchant family, who just so happened to set up arge industry in Ivanov; but the other was the most mysterious and the most highlighted due to being epted by the Academy Principal. He had no origin, almost as if he had just appeared into the world from some remote corner.


    Many discussed these two exceptional prodigies with glee. But while they did so, some spoke of another detailnews of two epted beforehand by the famous Seth Vurlock and the equally infamous Juliana.


    "Hmph! I don''t think they''re anything special to be epted beforehand; they didn''t even do the tests." One jealous youth said.


    "That''s right; you heard Superior Instructor IIan, he even personally attended the trials, solely to inspect the talents of his newly epted student. It''s a pity, though he had such good intentions, he could only get one of them." Someone else said.


    "Yes, that Jae Wilborn sure is lucky to have be Instructor In''s student, but that fellow called Melson is even crazier; I don''t know how he caught the Academy Principal''s eyes. Just by looking at them, even a frog would be able to tell which of these rumored talents are better." Another voice said.


    More voices of youngsters continued to sound about a mess hall, but unaware to many of them, their conversation targets had milk and sandwiches for lunch within a nearby corner.


    "Tasty..." Grevlin said, making an exciting look, he usually ate good things, but this is the first time he tasted such fresh and sweet milk.


    "Hehe, I told you it would have been nice; these milk are from that mystic dairy cow of Apline ins, they''re a delicacy." With a warm smile, Anna''srge eyes were shining as her pale, but the cute little face had two small dimples that gave one the urge to poke them.


    "Ah... then what kind of meat is this?" Grevlin asked with curiosity on his face, his finger now pointing on arge chunk of meat hidden beneath fresh vegetables in his half-eaten sandwich.


    "Oh, I... I don''t know." With a bit of disappointment in her eyes, Anna said as her mood turned a bit low as she stared at the meat.


    Grevlin looked at her te and noticed that her te didn''t have any meat; seeing her sad look, he thought for a bit, recalling a bit of information he read before.


    <em>''Ah, so she''s a vegetarian. I might have been rude.''</em>


    Grevlin thought before he made up his mind and spoke, "Sorry, I didn''t mean to ask, I thought you ate meat too."


    "No, it''s okay, your k... I mean, it''s not your fault; it''s just my condition; I can''t eat it even if I want to do so, but I''ve already... cough-cough, I''ve already gotten used to it, so don''t worry."


    Anna replied with a cheerful smile, but she had to hold the small pink cloth over her mouth as she coughed a few times.


    Grevlin felt a little better hearing her words; he thought for a bit before his eyes flickered as if recalling something.


    "Hey, Anna, I didn''t know that Miss Juliana had you as her student. Is she strong too?"


    Anna smirked at this as she spoke, "Hehe if there''s anyone in this school who can defeat your master, it''s mine."


    Grevlin, being smart for his age, naturally knew she was joking, but he still felt a bit bad hearing it. He replied, "I don''t believe it."


    "Oooh, then why don''t we make a bet?" Anna asked with a sly look in her eyes.


    Grevlin hesitated for a bit before he spoke, "Okay, fine, but it has to be something simple."


    Anna giggled before she spoke, "Let''s bet that when our masterse face to face, the first to act humbly and respectfully would be the loser. If either of us loses, then that person has to do one thing for the other if they ever ask of it."


    <em>''Hmph! With my master being a man, there''s no way he can act like that in front of a girl.''</em> Grevlin thought, his eyes flickering as it clearly showed his confidence.


    "Fine," Grevlin answered with a smile.


    Anna looked at this with a slightly victorious expression, she was about to say something, but sadly, they were soon disrupted.


    "Well, well, look what we have here if it isn''t those two amazing talents that didn''t have to do the tests. I must say you too must be very special to be epted by that bum of a drunkard master and that cursed woman." A slightly older teenage voice said as three persons had appeared around Grevlin and Anna''s table.


    Looking at them closely, one would realize that they were none other than the group led by the familiar robust teenager Grevlin had met before.


    Anna giggled, seeing the single patch of hair on his head, giving him a goofy look. Even Grevlin found it funny; he thought it looked simr to those spunky bandits in that violent modern martial arts post-apocalyptic anime that his father made him watch, iming that it was for ''growth'' purposes.


    "Hey, are you deaf? I''m speaking to you!" The robust youth yelled as he mmed the table with his hand.


    Anna showed a slightly fearful look; it was clear that she was trying to put up a front before to hide her concern. Her small hand clenched on to Grevlin''s shirt corners.


    "Grevlin... we" Anna said in a low voice.


    Grevlin, on the other hand, frowned; he didn''t like that youth''s tone; no one has ever spoken to him like this, not even in school. He originally thought they were funny and was hoping to hear them speak in the manner like the anime, but it was disappointing.


    "Get lost." Grevlin said no longer paying them any mind; he then turned to Anna and spoke, "Come, let''s get going, we have to pay our masters a visit before the day ends."


    "Mm," Anna said, feeling a little better; the two then got up from their seats and walked away under many prying eyes.


    "Damn! That little lucky wretch! Just you wait!" The robust youth said in anger as he mmed the desk hard causing it to break apart with a boom.


    His friends backing away as they looked at him in fear; quite a few persons noticed this scene and couldn''t help but show surprise as they spoke out loud.


    "Hey, isn''t that fellow one of the runner ups in the trials, I think his name was..."


    "Lawrence, yes, it''s that Rey Lawrence who should be a rtive that bastard Ex-Head Guard. Hmph! It looks like he''s out for those newbies... who are they anyway?" Another person said, changing the topic.


    "Ah, you know, I don''t know, I''ve never seen them before." Someone else said.


    "Wait, I remember, they were amongst those candidates during the trials, but they didn''t go in; it''s them; they are the pre-enrolled talents!" Another student said with a shout of rm.


    "What?" Some others eximed, amotion soon after started, but as if it didn''t bother them, both Grevlin and Anna continued on their way, headed to greet their masters, and finished their first day.


    Unaware to them, in a distant corner, Jae looked at Grevlin with icy eyes as he thought to himself.


    <em>''So it appears it was as I thought, hmph, but no matter. I, Jae Wilborn, am chosen talent; my gifts will take me farther than here. Soon, I shall challenge you and crush you before everyone to prove my worth to dad and show that you are nothing in the end.''</em>


    Jae turned and left the mess hall with such dark thoughts in mind, traveling a different route, the halls coated in a dark ir giving him a spooky vibe.

 Chapter 70: A Strange Reaction?

    Chapter 70: A Strange Reaction?


    When Grevlin and Anna left the mess hall, they walked through a long pathway before they separated. Grevlin followed a different route that led to the garden''s center''s remote building. Here, there weren''t any students running about or training, as only peace reigned.


    A figure was currently noticed with his back turned, seated around the pond with a fishing rod; his eyes showed a dazed look as if he was lost in his world until he finally sensed Grevlin''s arrival.


    "My apprentice, you''vee," Seth said as he smiled at Grevlin, looking at him with beaming eyes.


    Grevlin felt a bit awkward when called an apprentice, but he still waked up towards the man and greeted, "Student greets master."


    Seth had a more joyful expression as he heard Grevlin''s words; he beckoned from him to sit down as he spoke, "That''s good,e now, have a seat, let us have a chat."


    Grevlin nodded at Seth before sitting on a chair at the side and staring at him in silence.


    Seth then spoke in a gentle tone, "Now tell me, how do you like the academy so far?"


    Grevlin thought for a moment before he showed a pensive look on his face, his eyes a bit distant and recollective as he replied.


    "Um, I like it,pared to what I''m used to, it is... fun."


    Seth initially thought that Grevlin would reply in a child-like manner, but as he heard his answer, he gave him a more profound look as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Well now, this is something; what could he have experienced before to call this academy fun?''</em>


    Seth was a bit curious, but he didn''t want to pry overly; he smirked as he asked, "Oh, well did you make any friends?"


    Grevlin, when hearing those words, had a faint smile on his typically calm and numb face, he replied without hesitating.


    "Yes, master, I made a great friend, her name is Anna."


    "Anna, ah... thatss, I just remembered that she was also pre-enrolled today. Haha, you sure are quite the lucky kid to meet that child; that''s good; I''m happy she''s also made a friend."


    Seth said with a look of satisfaction; Grevlin stared at him with a curious eye; he didn''t know that he knew of Anna, nor that her status was so special.


    <em>''is Anna rted to master?''</em> Grevlin curiously thought, but before he could ask, Seth decided to change the topic.


    "Good, I''m d you had such a pleasant first day. You''ve already been filled in with the rules and basic standards of the academy by the previous instructions sessions; as such, it is my duty as your personal instructor to guide you on the rest."


    Grevlin, hearing those words knew that he couldn''t ask about his pondering anymore; he obediently looked at his master in silence and waited for his next words.


    Seth had a satisfied look on his face as he continued speaking, "Now then, as you already know, our academy is meant to train all types of warriors. Those who graduate here can further advance themselves by joining the main Royal Knight Academy, establishing their status as knights in training. However, if bing a knight of the dynasty isn''t what you''re interested in, you can also branch off to be a Seeker who roams thends, uncovering ancient ruins and even performing missions and noble deeds. Whichever you choose to embark on, our academy sets that foundation."


    Grevlin had a flicker in his innocent eyes that showed an intelligent look, he didn''t say anything, but it was clear that he was thinking a great deal about Seth''s words.


    "Good, I can see that you must already have a path in mind, why not tell me? Do you wish to be a Royal Knight or a Seeker?" Seth asked as he gave Grevlin a stare.


    Grevlin took a moment to collect his thoughts before his eyes showed a firm look when he replied, "I want to be like dad, I want to travel the world and roam with the winds."


    "Oh? Well now... I didn''t think you''d choose that path, but I guess it''s expected. Huhu... apprentice, your choice might just be perfect for you, as for someone or your gifts, it''s better to be left unchained, unbounded by anything."


    Seth said as he sized up Grevlin a bit more. In his eyes, he saw an endless source of power within his body, one that the average person of this world couldn''t sense.


    <em>''Such bearing, equally fitting for his innate gifts, it''s a pity, he can''t be trained in the standard way.''</em>


    Seth mused to himself, recalling Marius''s words; he thought for a while before his face showed an expression of hesitancy before growing a bit more resolved.


    "Child, although I''ve heard from your father that your body is a bit different from the norm, I would still like to give it a shot, so what say you? Do you wish to try and see if you utilize my Mystical Power Arts?"


    When Grevlin heard those words, he showed a look of surprise as he didn''t expect such a question. He asked, "Really? But father said that I couldn''t learn it, it won''t work."


    Seth hearing his reply shook his head as he spoke again, "If what he said was true, then that''s likely the case, but why limit yourself simply because of the inevitable? Sometimes in life, you just have to be willing to take a chance even when you know of the oue."


    As Grevlin heard such words, his eyes flickered with understanding. He couldn''t help but think.


    <em>''An investment? Then for dad, mom, and little sister, I must try to do the unthinkable. If I want to grow strong and protect them, I must be willing to do what no one else can...''</em>


    With sharp-looking eyes, Grevlin faced Seth with a firm mind as he spoke in reply, "Master, I will do it."


    Seth originally thought that Grevlin wouldn''t bother with it, but as he heard his words, his eyes lit up as he smacked Grevlin''s back and spoke with a healthyugh.


    "Haha, that''s good; even if it doesn''t work, I will still be satisfied, my dear apprentice."


    <em>''This uncle... so strange.''</em>


    Grevlin thought to himself with a slight look of discontent; he could still feel the sharp sting on his back from the previous hit.


    Seth didn''t seem to notice Grevlin''s mood; he waved his hand, causing a ck manual to appear before the two of them, hovering directly above his palm.


    It was a worn-out book that glowed in a dark residence with cryptic markings on its surface. After taking the book out, Seth smiled as he spoke with happiness.


    "My apprentice take a look; this book here is my treasure. I found it in an extremely dangerous ruin, way back during my earlier years. It is called the Darkness Sutra and wields an overbearing power of darkness that can"


    Seth wanted to continue speaking, but it was at this point he noticed something strange; he sensed a terrifying powering from Grevlin''s direction, causing him to be startled.


    "This... what the hell?"


    Seth eximed in rm, but that was only the beginning.


    When Grevlin saw his book, his heart made a thumping sound as his body felt strange; even his breath grew a bit different as a vague ck mist formed around his being.


    Soon, his eyes started to glow in red in seconds as the characters be more prevalent; he could read and understand every rune shown. As if driven by impulse, Grevlin spoke in a resonant by unusual dark voice.


    "Arva Nouak Vaksin..."


    As if his words invoked something, the hovering book started to emanate a sinister radiance, dousing thepound''s entity as if the world had turned into one of perpetual darkness.

 Chapter 71: The Rubixs Riddle? Grevlins Sudden Change

    Chapter 71: The Rubix''s Riddle? Grevlin''s Sudden Change


    Ding!


    [Host has detected an ancient power connected to one''s ancestral roots, Innate Hell Power is awakening]


    Ding!


    [Innate Hell Power is awakened:forcefully learning Darkness Sutra.]


    Ding!


    [Host is bounded by the System, cannot learn external forces.]


    ____


    When Grevlin grew conscious enough to hear those words, he found himself in a red space with a ck book hovering before him. It had the very same characters shown on the manuscript Seth had taken out, but from a nce, he could tell that this was moreplex and powerful.


    Buzz! It made a droning noise as powerful red energies rippled from it, seeping into Grevlin''s hovering body. Still, as if it was continuously being repelled by something, it couldn''t fully integrate with Grevlin''s body.


    As a result, it felt as if countless critters were trying to eat him from the inside out, causing him to cry out in pain,


    "Ahhhhh! Mother! Father! Help meeee!"


    Grevlin cried out, never feeling such pain before in his life, but no matter how much he shouted or cried, the pain only grew worse by the minute as if he felt as if he was going to die at any moment.


    After a long time of intense pain, Grevlin''s eyes turned red, his manner growing desperate, he felt as if he wouldmit suicide, but in this instance, he could see the images of his father, mother, and sister.


    Tears ran down his eyes as he felt the pain unbearable, but he soon gripped his fists tightly as if he found a new spirit, the look in his eyes became unyielding, having a firmness that was far beyond any child his age.


    "I... I cannot give in; I must resist, I have to go back to see mother, father, and sister! I WON''T GIVE UP!"


    When Grevlin said those words, the world around him started to dim, it became shrouded by an even more sinister power as if it could portray his will.


    Instantly, the strange and unusual ck cube had appeared, floating before Grevlin, whose body continued the tug of war between dark energies. It didn''t glow like the book but carried a dull and rather empty appearance as if it was the source of nothingness itself.


    However, when Grevlin saw it, he felt strange as he could hear an ancient voice in his soul.


    "Inheritor of Darkness, answer my riddle and I shall save you, speak nothing and I shall leave you to your fate."


    Grevlin didn''t even hesitate as he felt as if he would be ripped apart at any moment; he shouted in answer while bearing the pain, "I will answer!"


    As if invoked by his words, the Eternal Dark Rubix glowed in ck lights. One so dark that it even began to swallow the energies of both Grevlin and the hovering book.


    In seconds, the world around Grevlin grew dimmer, losing the color of redness as nothing remained. Now, only Grevlin, the book, and the Eternal Dark Rubix were left in this voided world. They floated about through its emptiness as the voice sounded again in a resonant manner.


    "I am the one who sees the end, the light which left the dark, the destination of all existing things. What am I?"


    When Grevlin heard those words, his eyes had a flicker; even the pain from the tug of war of energies that fought within his body had died down. In fact, he found himself in a trance if his mind was being influenced; he didn''t know why, but when he heard those words, he felt a deep connection with it, as if the person who spoke it had a great rtion to himself.


    As such, Grevlin didn''t even hesitate and felt it natural when he opened his mouth and answered in a simrly resonant voice.


    "I am death..."


    As if his answer was correct, the Eternal Dark Rubix instantly glowed in an even richer amount of ck light; it expanded at an rming scale, while the book tried to resist by releasing an endless number of red energies. Still, as if it fruitless, it was swallowed by the darkness.


    Now everything, including the world, had all be epassed by its darkness. The voice then sounded once more with a pleased tone,


    "Huhu... excellent, I look forward to your... no, our destiny of eternal darkness."


    With those words said, the cube swallowed everything, ripping the world apart before it flew into Grevlin''s forehead and vanished.Now, only an unconscious Grevlin remained floating into nothingness as an unusual series of system notifications sounded once more.


    ____


    Ding!


    [An unknown power is detected, Host is forcefully learning Darkness Sutra.]


    Ding!


    [Host is bounded by the System, cannot learn external forces.]


    Ding!


    [Host is bounded by the System, c-c-c-c-c-c-annot learn external f-f-f-forces.]


    Ding!


    [System is affected by a greater force, temporarily shutting down.]


    Ding!


    [System has been rebooted; a greater power is now in effect.]


    Ding!


    [Host has partially unlocked the Status - Heir of Darkness.]


    Ding!


    [Status is now in effect; the powers of darkness have no limits - Host has learned the Darkness Sutra.]


    __


    After an unknown amount of time, Grevlin had awoken to find himself lying down on afortable bed. For some reason, though unconscious, he heard the prior notifications.


    <em>''This... what happened? Did I really learn it?''</em>


    Grevlin, though in surprise, he wanted to call out the system sheet to see his details. But sadly, he didn''t have the chance for someone was seated before him.


    "Little apprentice, are you okay?" Seth asked with a look of concern on his face.


    Grevlin was the youngest of his apprentices and most talented, he felt shocked when he saw the strange change that urred prior, but in his perspective, Grevlin only glowed in a ck light before falling on the ground unconscious.


    He was panicked and thought that his technique must have caused a negative reaction, he didn''t know what he''d do or how he''d exin to his father if something bad happened to him. Luckily for him, Grevlin was more special than he thought and had survived the disaster.


    Grevlin sighed because he didn''t have time to check his stats, but he sat himself up from the bed and replied, "Master, I''m fine."


    Hearing him speak, Seth felt more joyful and relieved, his look of worry fading as he became more at eased when he spoke, "That''s good, that''s good, as long as your okay, you don''t have to try to learn my technique again, I shouldn''t have been so stubborn in the first ce.From this day, I will ne"


    Seth was about to say something, but Grevlin gave him an odd look as he spoke, "Master, I''ve learned it."


    Seth continued to speak as he didn''t hear his words, "I will never let you learn it again, my stubbornness caused me to lose many disciples over the years, and that isn''t a good thing. I have to learn to ept that not everyone can learn my leg"


    As if he only now heard Grevlin, Seth looked at him with surprise once more, halting his words as he asked, "What did you say?"


    Grevlin looked at him with his innocent eyes, and he waved his hand, causing a ck power to form over it, one which had cryptic runes flowing at its core.


    Seth was stunned; his mouth opened wide in as he eximed, "This is impossible! How can there be such pure power of darkness? It''s even rich with those runes... did you really practice my technique or the source?"


    Seth was confused and bewildered, he was shocked that Grevlin could learn it despite his condition, but even that didn''tpare to the fact that he had studied it with such unusual differences.


    <em>''In all my years, I''ve never seen anything like, just what kind of monstrous child is this? Is he some of the ancient demon reincarnated?''</em>


    Seth thought as he stared at Grevlin with concern, but Grevlin only looked at him calmly and innocently; he waved his hand, causing the powers to vanish as he smiled.


    Seth let his guard down at this, he sighed thinking to himself, ''<em>Maybe I''m overreacting, such a pure and talented child, since he''s so talented, then I must train him to the best of abilities... pushing him well beyond even my past heights.''</em>


    With his mind now calm and decided, Seth spoke once more, "Very good, you did well, my apprentice, from this day forward, I''ll train you personally, you no longer need to attend those boring ss sessions, I will teach you everything they can and more. Of course, I won''t take away your time from that littless Anna, haha."


    Grevlin tilted his head at those words, showing an even more innocent look. Seth pped his own head for saying such things to a child; he changed the topic.


    "Oh yes, about you learning that technique of mine, always remember, never tell anyone but your parents, okay."


    When Grevlin heard that, he nodded his head and replied, "Yes, master."


    Seth felt Grevlin to be even more adorable; he tapped his shoulder and spoke, "Come on now, let''s begin your first official training before the day ends."


    <em>''Training? This should be fun.''</em>


    Grevlin thought as his eyes lit up, he then followed behind Seth, who guided him from towards a different area, rearing to begin his first ordeal, but as Grevlin''s training began, Marius was about to start his own first adventure as a Seeker.

 Chapter 72: Mariuss Dilemma, A Forced Party

    Chapter 72: Marius''s Dilemma, A Forced Party


    Themotion at the Seeker''s Union had faded, and by now, most had gone off to their missions. After being fully initiated by Torn and a few Union Seniors as an official Seeker, Marius now roamed the building''s main hall toplete his initiation duty, taking in the rowdy atmosphere.


    Large-bodied men and beast-like men sat around sturdy wooden chairs as they chatted andughed, while well-shaped women of all sizes sat nearby, their giggles adding a bit of ir to the air.


    A few others also had conflicts with others as they threw their fists about, but as if no one cared about such a scene, they treated it as normal and only ced bet''s on the side.


    Marius found it enjoyable; in his previous work line, he didn''t spend too much time in such an open and above-board setting, always dwelling in darkness. After retiring, he had to work in a nine-to-five office job that had taken its toll on him even more due to their strict requirements and oppressive systems.


    Marius felt constrained doing such things, but right now, he felt that living life in such a setting wouldn''t be too bad; at least, he wouldn''t have to hide or suppress this true nature.


    <em>''A life on the edge is the only life worth living...''</em>


    Marius thought as he licked his lips slightly, his eyes shining with a slightly baleful gleam that no one in the area seemed to notice.


    Marius was lost in his world; he didn''t even notice that ever so quirky Leya was tailing him; she gave him an odd stare while thinking to herself.


    <em>''Such an oddball, this uncle is way too strange, but... he''s the best partner to team up with...''</em>


    Leya thought to herself as, despite her feelings of misgivings, her eyes still shone with a hint of determination. She was about to walk directly up towards him, but before that could happen, there was a change.


    "Hey, you''re Leya Paltine, correct?" A snobbish voice said from the side.


    Leya knitted her brows at this as she turned her attention to the side, there she noticed that a fat man with half-shaved brown hair that wore luxury clothing was staring at her as he stood at the center of a group of men and women. They each had a confident air about them, each wearing high-ss armor and equipment as they looked at her with a smile.


    Leya frowned as she answered, "Yes, and you are?"


    The fat man with half-shaved brown hair smirked as he puffed out his chest and replied, "I''ve heard a few whispers amongst the upper grapevine, but only aftering here today did I saw that it was true. You, the sole daughter of the Union Chief heading out to the field, are worthy ofmemoration. My name is Jack Lawrence, please, do me the honor of joining my party."


    When Jack spoke, his face became filled with even more confidence as he felt that after such a lengthy speech, along with his family name''s statement, no one would reject him. In fact, even hisrades thought the same, as they already stared at Leya with expectation.


    Leya, however, didn''t even think twice or continue to spare them a nce as she spoke, "Not interested."


    With her icy voice leaving a chill in the air, her petite figure waltz away without even looking back at the dumbfounded looks on their faces; even Jack had his mouth opened wide.


    "What the heck just happened?" Jack cursed as he looked at his cronies.


    "This... squad leader, it''s odd, I heard that she had quite the attitude and had even rejected quite a few others already, but I didn''t think she would deny even us." A female said.


    Jack frowned as he tried to hide the embarrassment on his face; he stared at Leya''s back with an in-depth look as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Hmph! So what, with that attitude, I doubt anyone else would take her; besides, it''s not like she''s the only one that''s special in this batch of recruits. I can recruit one of those guys...''</em>


    While Jack thoughts rang here, his eyes showed a recollective look as he could picture a few faces. After a short while, he turned to the man before Leya, noticing that she was gaining on him. Still, as he saw his facial features, his pupils lit up as he knew that that person was the number one of today''s Drilling Trials.


    <em>''It''s him, that overpowering fellow, I mustn''t lose this chance we must''</em> Jack was about to think something but soon halted in shock as he heard Leya''s words.


    "Uncle, wait! I want to join your party."


    Leya said in a spoiled and brat-like tone, which fitted her looks that was oddly enough was far from being in alignment with her age.


    "What the heck? She would join another instead of us?" One of Jack''s cronies said in surprise.


    "She''s looking down on us; even if that guy is powerful for a rookie, how can one manpare to the value of an experienced team?" Another crony said.


    Jack bit his lips with a red face filled with rage, his fists clenched tightly as his fat jiggled on his face. He was thinking of adding Marius to his team, but he no longer felt the mood for some reason.


    While Jack and his group had their different reactions, Marius looked at Leya in surprise as he spoke, "You want to join my team? You should know that I haven''t formed or joined any parties so far, so why are you asking such a thing?"


    Leya looked at him directly and replied, "Of course I know that, I''m not stupid. As for why I want to join you"


    As Leya spoke here, she turned her head to the side and continued in a slightly hesitant tone, "That''s my secret! Anyways, I''ve already decided to join your team, and I won''t change my mind."


    Marius felt a headache as he heard those words, even more so when he saw the stubborn look in her eyes. He, too, had seen far too many such faces before in his past. Still, it was mostly those targets that wanted to cling to everyst strand of their life, very troublesome opponents indeed.


    <em>''Ah crap, Ria isn''t going to be happy... of all things to happen, I had to encounter the stubborn female type; it looks like I might just fall into the category of those guys in those novels with harems.''</em>


    When Marius made a heavy sigh to himself, Leya looked at him curiously, wondering what he was thinking, she was about to ask, but sadly, a few other voices sounded.


    "Count me in; I''ve wanted to find a good partner, everyone else is a bit off standard, but I''m fine working with you both," A spunky voice said.


    "Me... too..." A grim but somewhat shy male voice said.


    When Marius and Leya heard this, they looked in the direction the voices came from, ignoring the still ring Jack Lawrence and his party only to notice two peculiar faces.


    The first person who spoke being a familiar archer with arge hat that hid his face and a red ponytail, and the second being a meek-looking pale-skinned young man, his eyes hidden beneath his ck hair that fell to his nose as he hunched over in an odd posture.


    Leya''s eyes lit up as she saw these two appear; Marius also had a slight flicker in his eyes as he thought.


    <em>''Well shit, to think these talented fellows would also flock to me, what am I some beacon for heroes? Tsk, these guys were pretty good too, not too weak whenpared to those others in the trials.''</em>


    While both Leya and Marius had their thoughts, Jack and his party members watched on with shocked expressions, never believing that such a scene would ur.


    "What the hell? They''re all gathering with him; this is bullshit!" One person said.


    Jack felt so angry at this that he didn''t know what to say; after giving Marius and Leya a fierce look, he bit his lips before turning around and walking away.


    "Squad leader, wait up!" The others said as they saw him leaving, they hurried to catch up but didn''t get too close as they knew his mood was probably at rock bottom.


    Jack said nothing to anyone; his eyes only shone with a menacing intent as he thought to himself. <em></em>


    <em>''Leya... Marius... humph! Don''t worry; I''ll show you both that even if you''re not on my squad, we can do better than both of you.''</em>


    Not even noticing Jack had left, Marius, who finished gathering his thoughts, stared at the two before he spoke, "You guys sure are odd; how can you just walk up to a stranger like me and expect to be party members. I don''t even know your names."


    The two guys looked at each other before they spoke as if having discussed prior.


    "Haha, the name''s Quon Ranger; pleased to meet you." The red ponytail archer said.


    "I-Illiak Olon," The meek youth said as he slightly lifted his head, peaking at Marius from his eyes hidden beneath his hair.


    "Good, we''ve now met and been introduced; all should be good," Quon said with a hearty smile.


    "Hehe, these guys are funny, so odd but funny," Leya said with a smirk.


    Marius sighed at this, even more so when he heard them formerly introduce themselves; he asked, "Let me guess, you''re both not thinking of changing your minds either?"


    "Nope. I''m afraid you''ll have to ept us directly or put up us tailing you from now onwards, friend." Quon said with a smile.


    "I... I as well," Illiak said with his head held down.


    Mariusmented at this as he shook his head. He gave them a good look over before he answered, "Alright, you can tag along, but I won''t make any promises. Besides, having a few brats to follow me from now onwards isn''t such a bad thing; I could use some porters, hahaha!"


    Marius walked away when he said this, causing a look of shock to form on their faces.


    "Hey, I said that I''m going to be your party member, not some shitty porter!" Leya shouted as she ran behind Marius, trying to catch up to him.


    "Huhu... this fellow isn''t so bad, see I told you he''d ept us, sometimes you got to have faith Illiak," Quon said as he stared at his friend.


    "R... right." Illiak answered a bit shyly with his head still held down.


    Quon shook his head at this as he spoke, "Come, let''s catch up, we need to get our first mission; after doing a mission together, I''m sure we''ll be able to make a better impression, you know what we''re both fighting for."


    Illiak though a bit shy, showed a firmer look in his vaguely revealed eyes; he nodded and answered, "I do... let''s go."


    "There we go; that''s the spirit," Quon said as he pped Illiak''s shoulder, the two hurrying along to catch up with Marius and Leya as they went further towards the core of the Seeker''s Union to ept their first Mission.

 Chapter 73: Seeker Ranks, The First Mission

    Chapter 73: Seeker Ranks, The First Mission


    While walking for a while, Marius, Leya, Quon, and Illiak had arrived in the central area to ept missions. A Seekers Union escort saw them and spoke, "Oh, you''re the newbies, right, then I suppose that you''re that Marius Edgewick."


    Marius and the others stared at him and nodded; the escort then smiled as he beckoned Marius while speaking, "Perfect, please follow me; this is the area for weaker Seekers. Normally, this would be the board you start with, but as you''ve defeated a pinnacle E ss Mystical Beast, then it''s no longer a board suitable for you."


    "Eh, then what about us?" Leya said as she stuck nearby like a tail.


    "We as well," Quon said as he stood forward, tapping Illiak''s shoulder as he forced thetter to show a more bold look, trying to break his timid and meek nature.


    The escort looked at Marius, who shrugged before he nced at Leya.


    "Miss Paltine, your strength has simrly been proven in the Drilling Trails; you have somewhat qualified for the advanced boards. I can also say the same for you two rising stars."


    "That''s great! If I didn''t get to tag along, I would haveined to my father," Leya said in excitement.


    "Luckily, we aren''t like those simple weaklings," Quon said with augh as he scratched the back of his head.


    Illiak held his head down, not saying anything; he only peeked at Marius from the corner of his hidden eyes.


    Marius sighed heavily at this; he felt he was a bit too old when in a young crowd like this, the escort looked at him with pity but said nothing; he merely gestured for them to follow as he moved to a different area.


    After moving along with the escort, Marius, Leya, Quon, and Illiak had arrived at the core mission area, a ce with many different mission boards that had glowing runes edged on their surfaces.


    "Oh, that looks fancy," Marius said with beaming eyes.


    "Huh?" Leya and the others said as they looked at Marius strangely, such things were familiar to them, so they found his utterances a bit odd. Naturally, they would never know Marius wasn''t native to this world, and he certainly wouldn''t go out of his way to tell them that either.


    Soon, the escort stopped before an area with the title E ss Mission above a few boards; some powerful-looking Seekers were observing different papers that hung atop their surfaces with varying expressions. Some have looks of sternness and others with excitement.


    As the escort saw this, he shook his head before addressing Marius and his self-proimed party members, "Well then, we''ve arrived at the E ss Mission Boards. Please take your time in choosing tasks that fit your ranks. You don''t want to go and take up what you can''t handle, even more so for your initiation mission. Now that I''ve brought you here you can all be considered E ss Seekers, you might know this already, but I''ll say once more just in case. Seekers rank from G, F, E, D, C, B, and the most vital being the A-ss. Any power above is regarded as our Empire Champions, directly in charge of our nation''s safety."


    When Leya and the others heard this, they nodded in agreement as they knew of these details; Marius also knew a bit from his reading at the Mountain Ax Senior''s abode.


    The escort once more continued, "Good, these ranks mentioned before also have their hierarchy in the military setting, with sses, C and B upwards being in the ranks of the Empire Knights. However, for us Seekers, they have a different meaning. Seekers of a certain level can only do missions in their category, and the only way to take on higher missions is to advance your Seeker rank. To rank up, you must first perform enough missions in one category before applying to take a higher-ss mission. If that task is a sess, you will be promoted as a higher-grade Seeker."


    Marius''s eyes lit up as he heard those words. He thought to himself, <em>''Interesting, it''s like those video games I saw before, ranking up as an adventurer... no, Seeker, huhu... I''ve got to run this by Ria onceter.''</em>


    While Marius thought to himself, the eyes of Leya, Quon, and Illiak shone as each showed their own determinations, showing their youthful spirits; it seemed that they each had a goal they were striving to achieve.


    "That''s enough for now; I''ve said what I''ve been required to, happy questing to you all Seekers," The escort said as he walked away towards a different area.


    "Take care; thanks for the help," Leya said as she waved off the escort.


    Quon, on the other hand, stared at the mission board with bright eyes as he spoke, "Oh, so many missions, I''ve heard that they were quite plenty, but I didn''t think that at such a rank we''d see so much. Which do we start with?"


    Illiak remained silent as he eyes the board, Leya who only now turned her attention to the board, she frowned as she scanned it over and spoke, "Hmm, it seems a bit difficult to choose, uncle, which one should we do?"


    Marius sighed; hearing this, he thought to himself, <em>''Of course, I, as the game protagonist, must be the one to choose the mission. Oh well, no useining; let''s see if there''s anything good.''</em>


    With his thoughts decided, he scanned it slowly to go over everything, but much beyond his expectation, a strange change urred. His eyes glowed in a faint light. A system notification he didn''t hear for a while sounded in his mind, followed by a disy screen only viewable to himself.


    ____


    Ding!


    [Host has discovered current world questing board, updating system!]


    Ding!


    [Updateplete, you have unlocked the questing feature, mission board unlocked!]


    Ding!


    [<strong>Seeker''s Union Mission Board - E ss</strong>]


    _


    [Pick 1000 Grasilm Herbs | <strong>Reward</strong>: 50Krills (<strong>System Rewards</strong>: 5 Mastery Pts)]


    _


    [Kill 150 Elite Iron Tail Wolves Iron Fur | <strong>Reward</strong>: 200 Krills (<strong>System Rewards</strong>: 15 Mastery Pts)


    _


    [Inspect the Thunder Hawk Ridge and find a missing artifact | <strong>Reward</strong>: 1000 Krills (<strong>System Rewards</strong>: 50 Mastery Pts)


    _


    [Suppress the Silverback Mystic Ape of w Edge Mountain Range | <strong>Reward</strong>: 11000 Krills (<strong>System Rewards</strong>: 55 Mastery Pts)


    _


    [Retrieve the gal of the Poison Marshes ck Python King | <strong>Reward</strong>: 25000 Krills (<strong>System Rewards</strong>: 100 Mastery Pts)


    ...


    ____


    Marius was shocked at the sight; he didn''t think his system would have such a change. Noticing his surprise, Leya spoke out, "Uncle, what''s the matter? Is there something wrong?"


    Marius quickly calmed his mood as he thought, <em>''Ho, well now, this is something... looks like I might just be able to grow stronger even when suppressed.''</em>


    "Uncle!" Leya called out again, feeling a bit angry that she was ignored.


    Marius rolled his eyes before staring at them and speaking, "It''s nothing; I was only thinking, for our first mission, we''ll just go with this one."


    When Marius spoke, he pointed his finger at the mission that said Suppress the Silverback Mystic Ape; the others had curious expressions as they pondered what kind of monster had such a reputation but knew it should be quite powerful.


    "Great, then let''s get started immediately," Leya said, feeling pepped up.


    "Haha, this should be fun, much better than hunting those random mystic beasts in the woods," Quon said.


    "I... I think we should be more careful." Illiak said a bit timidly.


    "Illiak, what did I say before?" Quon said in a slightly admonishing tone; Illiak sighed as he replied, "F-fine."


    Marius gave them a look and face-palmed before he turned and left, waving his hand as he spoke, "Come on, kids, let''s get moving; I have to get home before dark."


    Leya stared at Marius and tiptoed near him, peeking up at his face as she teased, "Hehe, uncle, you''re acting like you have to go home to your wife and kids!"


    "Haha, she''s right; since when does a grown man live on curfew?" Quon said.


    Marius shook his head and replied while walking, "The day you look at the partner of your dreams and say I do."


    When the others heard this, they made shocked looks; they never thought he would make such a reply, even more so as he looked so young; Leya was mostly joking about him having a wife and kids.


    "Uncle... this..." Leya said a bit awkwardly.


    Marius patted her head and spoke, "Kid, don''t worry about such things; that''s what we adults have to do; act as free as you wish while you still have nomitments in your life."


    Leya felt his advice was a bit interesting, but she also felt angered by his form of address. As she smacked away his palm, she pointed at him and spoke, "I''m not a kid, I''m eighteen years old, remember it already!"


    "Sure-sure, of course, you are..." Marius said offhandedly.


    Leya gnashed her teeth but didn''t bother to curse any more; Quon and Illiak looked at each other before theyughed and followed along, their group soon leaving the Seekers Union as they headed towards the town''s exit, ready to venture into the unknown.

 Chapter 74: The Claw Edge Mountain Range, Danger from the Sky

    Chapter 74: The w Edge Mountain Range, Danger from the Sky


    The w Edge Mountain Range, a region so dangerous that it was famed within this sector of the Grand Alvaria Dynasty, its mountains aligned themselves in a unique posture, angling high at a curved point, making them seem like ws.


    There were sights of many powerful beasts here, most within the F ss range, with quite a few E ss amidst their ranks. Each carving out a part of the domain, to rule as would a king in subjugatednds.


    Many being of a violent nature, be it snakes, wolves, bears, and others of unfamiliar shapes. Yet, regardless of those many creatures with both power and fame, only one beast here stood at the top of the food chain, one monster that indeed ruled them all.


    This creature was the Silverback Mystic Ape, a monster so dreadful that even those of the D ss standard, typically titled as Famed Warriors across Alvaria''snds, wouldn''t even dare to face in directbat.


    Whoosh! A warm wind blew across the sky as it was now the hours of the afternoon; Marius and his newly formed party members were currently hiking from the base of these rumored mountains, which was located only a few kilometers from Ivanov.


    It was clear that to get here at such a speed; everyone had to utilize a high-speed movement method, but unlike Marius, who climbed no different from a lively child in the early morning. Everyone else was utterly exhausted as they struggled to rise, staring at Marius''s back with varying looks on their faces.


    Leya seemed to have it hard; she wasn''t that good at physical activities to begin with. Using her staff as a cane to bnce on, she halted and red at the quickly growing distant Marius as she cursed, "Uncle, wait up! You... you can''t leave us behind like this!"


    Quon held his hand on a rock and wiped the sweat from his head as he spoke out at this time, "Team leader, she''s right, you have to stop and let us rest? Look, even Illiak is finding it hard to hold on..."


    Quon pointed at Illiak thatid down on the ground weakly and helplessly with those words said, his pale skin making him seem no different from the corpse.


    Marius halted his steps hearing their words; he turned his head and looked at them and replied with a smirk, "Only this much, huh? Oh well, I guess it can''t be helped if you''re all like this. Don''t worry; I''llplete the mission myself; by then, you can each go find an easier party."


    Marius once more turned around and continued, no longer wasting a word, seeming to be filled with endless stamina.


    "Damn! What''s with this uncle? He''s like a horse with no limits! Hmph! Even if tired, I won''t fall back like this!" Leya said with rage, her eyes seeming as if they could spout fire as she drew strength from the unknown and charged up at twice her previous speed.


    Looking at her movements, one would notice that as her staff touched the ground, it made a ripple of energy which made the path below her feet much morefortable to walk.


    Quon bit his lips in anger as well; he didn''t like being looked down on; he spoke, "You better think twice if you believe I''m going to give up, hmph! Illiak!"


    With his shout, Quon then nced at Illiak, but it was unknown when Illiak had already risen to his feet, his face still pale but full of spirit as he trotted onwards without a word. His traveling style was even odder, as it seemed as if rather than walking, something was pulling him upwards as if he defied gravity.


    "Heh, this guy... he never disappoints," Quon thought with apetitive smile; he simrly followed behind, utilizing a unique set of movements, as if he was stepping lightly onto the wind.


    Marius, though far ahead, was observing their situations; he had a gleam in his eyes as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Oh, they''re good, these techniques of theirs are pretty special too; I''ll have to check out their stats when we''ve settled down.''</em>


    With those thoughts in mind, Marius felt it wasn''t so bad to be trailed by talented aspiring teammates; he shook his head, recalling his past as his eyes became a bit distant. Before he met Ria, he was always a lone wolf in the field, battling as one against many in most circumstances, hidden in the dark, never in the light.


    While Marius pondered to himself, unaware of him and his party, a bird-like silhouette was circling the sky from a distance. Observing its features, one would notice that it wasn''t some simple bird, but a massive two-meterrge four-winged crow with sinister eyes.


    This creature was also a famous death bringer, the renowned Four Wind Dark Crow, whose every appearance would spark a disaster for many small-time E ss parties.


    "Caw!"


    A resonating cry is sounding from the heavens as the Four Wind Dark Crow descended like an arrow shot from a longbow, its screeched through the wind, hissing down towards Leya, who only now looked up in shock and terror.


    "Oh no, it''s a Four Wind Dark Crow!" Leya called out in horror, but being quick-witted, even if tired from her arduous climb, she still managed to make a reaction.


    "Mystic Light!" Leya shouted as she spun her staff and pointed its tip towards the crow; a bright white light shone from its tip, forcing the crow to squint its eyes as it cawed in anger, striking its outstretched ws towards Leya''s location.


    Bang! The ground covered by bright lights exploded into bits of rubble as the Four Wind Dark Crow swooped out with something its w, soaring up high into the air once more as it left a trail of dust debris.


    "Damn bird, where are you going? Wind Bolt!"


    Quon shouted as he swiftly moved his hands, nocking his bow and firing a dazzling green arrow towards the Four Wind Dark Crow. As if guided by the wind, this arrow moved at a speed many times faster than amon one, as it instantly arrived before the crow.


    Not even giving it a chance to dodge, the arrow pierced into one of its wings, leaving a deep wound, causing the crow to make a painful but furious cry.


    It pped its wings, swooshing through the air like a rocket as it made a circle while looking down, ring at Quon, who aimed another bow at it.


    Feeling angered by this, it clenched its ws with full force, seeking to destroy its prey as a warning, but as it did it, its expression changed to confusion as it only felt soil.


    ncing at its ws, it finally saw that it didn''t manage to capture its prey, but had that instant, took up a bundle of rocks and sand.


    This fact enraged the Four Wind Dark Crow even further, as its body began to glow in red lights, showing it entered a frenzied state.


    "CAWWW!"


    Its curious cry sounded again but reached even further as the ripple of red mystical energy exploded from its body, causing an oppressive power to fill the surroundings.


    "Not good, it''s going berserk! Take my Wind sh Bolt!" Quon said in rm, firing another arrow towards it, his arrow moving like a green ray of light that had a de-like arc condensed around it.


    With a sh, it crashed into the body of the enraged Four Wind Dark Crow, but this time, rather than wounding it, the arrow merely broke through the outeryers of its mystic power before fading.


    "What? It can block it?" Quon said in shock, never expecting such a scene.


    The Four Wind Dark Crow grew even angrier at Quon. It was about to swoop down to annihte him but suddenly halted as it saw that two persons stood at Quon''s side.


    "That darn bird, hmph! I''ll teach it to sneak up on me; let''s take him down together!" Leya said with a fierce look on her face.


    "C-count me in," Illiak stutteringly said as he clenched his fist tightly, he stared up at the crow with a set of firm eyes vaguely revealed below his hair.


    Quon looked at them feeling a little better; he thought to himself, <em>''Good, if it''s this, then we might stand a chance. That thing is stronger, but if we work together, we might be able to beat it, and at least prove ourselves that man.''</em>


    "Caw!" The Four Wind Dark Crow stared at the group fiercely as if gearing up to attack again; it had already assessed the situation and knew that they weren''tpletely of a threat to it.


    Bang! Its mystic power was rippling across the sky as it prepared to dominate them, causing the faces of Leya and the others to turn stern.


    Marius only now woke from his daze. He stared at the scene with interest showing no desire to take action, his lips curving into a smile as he muttered in a voice only he could hear.


    "Good, let''s have a show."

 Chapter 75: The Strength of Party

    Chapter 75: The Strength of Party


    A heavy tension filled the atmosphere as the battle between bird and humans had entered a new phase. With a vicious battle shriek, the Four-Winged Dark Crow swooshed around in the air in its berserk state, its body d in its vile mystic power as it pped its wings, hurling a few arcs of spiraling wild wind attacks towards its enemies.


    "Everyone get behind me! Mystic Barrier Dome!"


    Leya said as she adopted abat stance, holding her staff before her as one of her hands faced forward with its palms open, a barrier then formed around her, Quon, and Illiak, who were both gathering power for an attack.


    Bang! The dome-shaped barrier shook as the many different wind arcs crashed into it from above, some of the remnant energies seeping into the earth around it, as it sliced through like a knife through butter, crushing their surroundings.


    "Her barrier grew stronger... is it always like this, or is it because she''s under pressure?" Marius muttered as he observed from his position of the hill''s summits. Still, as his thoughts reached here, his eyes flickered when he stared at Quon and Illiak with even more interest.


    The Four-Winged Dark Crow couldn''t get any angrier as it saw how easily its prey prevented its innate attack. Not bothering to hold back anymore, its body erupted with immense mystic power as it swooped from the air with its talons held outward; nning to crush them all together in one go.


    Leya''s face shrunk as she could feel the danger from the iing attack; she shouted, "Guys, I won''t be able to block this; hurry and take it down!"


    Quon, who seemed to have gathered arge amount of mystic power, nodded as he firmly gripped a dazzling green arrow and nocked his bow in full.


    "Illiak, I''m ready; it''s all on you," Quon said, not daring to take his eyes from the iing danger, swooshing down through the shrieking winds like aet ready to hurl destruction.


    "R-right," Illiak said a bit hesitantly as if one looked at him, they wouldn''t see the look of a confident man but one full of uncertainty.


    Leya gulped at this. She felt her heart racing, her sweat running from her forehead as she thought to herself, ''I<em>... can I trust these guys?''</em>


    She wasn''t anxious that Quon couldn''t pull his end, but she was beginning to grove nervous when it came down to Illiak.


    Caw! The savage cry of the crow sounded as it had now descended upon them, its giant talons swooshing towards the barrier with immense force, causing it to show signs of cracks due to the wind pressure.


    "Hurry! Whatever you''re doing, do it now!" Leya cried out in rm.


    Quon also had sweat running from his forehead, but he didn''t dare toin or take his eyes from the monster; he knew Illiak well and decided that he would trust him always.


    Marius narrowed his eyes as he saw this; he held his arm forward, prepared to act. But at this time, he looked in surprise as he thought to himself.


    "Oh, it looks like I underestimated them... or rather, that fellow."


    With death staring him right in the face, Illiak felt as though time as stopped. He wasn''t one to act out directly and would rather keep a low profile, even more so due to his meek and weak nature.


    Yet, at this moment, though fearful of the iing danger, he bit his lips tightly, his pale face turning even paler.


    <em>''I... I must live up to my mission...''</em>


    With those words said, Illiak''s mood seemed to have changed by a section as he grew colder, almost like ice. His palms left a series of afterimages as they sped together before grey energy scattered from his body, forming a gray field a few meters around them.


    "Gravity Fall..." Illiak''s cold voice said as time returned to normal, followed by a shocking change.


    Bang! The sound of something crashing into earth resounded as the earth before the Four-Winged Dark Crow exploded, causing it to vanish behind a sea of dust and dirt.


    Looking at the scene before her, Leya was shocked; she would have never expected such a change to happen no sooner than a blink of an eye.


    She turned and nced at Illiak, noticing that he now held his arms together with an icy gaze, ring at the pit before her with glowing silver eyes as if it were an enemy.


    ''This guy... he''s stronger than I thought, and those eyes, they aren''t normal. There''s something not quite right about him,'' Leya thought as she grew curious about Illiak.


    As if he sensed her gaze, Illiak stared at her, but because of his distraction, his power faded as he soon after returned to his usual meek and weak mood. His hair fell over his face as it once more covered his now mysterious silver eyes.


    Unlike both Leya and Illiak, who were distracted, Quon knew his role; his eyes peered through the dust cloud, glowing with a strange light as it soon formed an outline of the crow''s body.


    "Found you, now die! Raging Gale Bolt!"


    With Quon''s shout, it startled both Illiak and Leya, who were distracted, forcing them to look as he fired off his dazzling green arrow that tore through the cloud of dust, pushing it away as it soared towards the now immobile Four-Winged Dark Crow.


    Sensing the danger, the Four Winged Dark Crow felt rmed. It was originally trying to pick itself up from the craters, but due to the boulders that crushed its wings from the sharp fall, it couldn''t react in time.


    With a gruesome sound and a pitiful shriek, the arrow sted arge hole in the skull of the crow''s head. Instantly, ending its tale as it slumped over into the pit that was now its grave.


    "Whew, that was a close one. Haha, Illiak, you came through this time," Quon said as he wiped his forehead with a smirk on his face.


    "Hehe, that''s right, we''d have been a goner if not for that technique of yours," Leya said as she stared at Illiak with a smile.


    Illiak lowered his head a bit shy, not saying anything; even though it didn''t seem like it, it was clear he liked being praised.


    Watching his party members speak idly out in the open after a vicious battle in these wild mountains, Marius shook his head and facepalmed, even more so as he saw the shuffling silhouettes rushing through them from all angles.


    Marius jumped from his position in a battle-ready posture with a heavy sigh, staring down towards them while thinking with sharp eyes.


    "They''re not bad, but they have a lot to learn..."


    His figure bolted down like thunder bringing a startle to the party once more as a new battle unfolded in an instant.

 Chapter 76: A System Defect? Everyone鈥檚 Stats

    Chapter 76: A System Defect? Everyone¡¯s Stats


    The mountain range had a pleasant wind, but the horrifying screams of multiple creatures added a kind of dark element to this mood. Following these noises, one woulde across a scene where many monsters fled in a panic as behind them, a scene no different from a massacre, had unfolded.


    Howl! A savage cry sounded as a giant wolf raised its head, leaping towards a silhouette before it, its savage teeth shimmering coldly like peerless swords as it bit down harshly, aiming to end the human-sized being''s existence.


    A pity, if it were any other man, such a beast would have more or likely seeded, but sadly, it had met a monster in human flesh.


    Bang! The ground ruptured as if the giant wolf crashed into the ground head first, its body twitching as if it had suffered severe injuries from the impact. With a growl, it tried to pick itself up, but all proved futile due to a change.


    Observing more closely, one would notice that the man now pressed down the wolf''s head with one arm; he then shook his head and spoke in a disappointing tone.


    "Tsk, so weak, and here I thought it would have been more interesting. Oh well, time to send you off, friend."


    Marius said as he applied more pressure to his palm that held down the wolf''s neck, crushing it with a snapping noise. The wolf then lost the light of life in its eyes as it slumped down, turning into a corpse.


    "Wow, this uncle sure is a monster," Leya said from nearby as she watched Marius, who was now inspecting the unusual breed of giant wolf.


    "Indeed, he took care of so many in such a short time, we would have been in trouble had he not acted," Quon added as he had a bit of fear in his pupils; he nced around at the vicinity, seeing many other creatures that looked to have recently been killed.


    Illiak gulped as he looked at this but said nothing; he kept his hand in his pocket and lowered his head as if hiding his eyes.


    Marius soon finished his inspection; his eyes showed a bit of surprise as he read over his system notifications.


    ____


    [You have defeated a Giant Grey Wolf, converting creature''s life force into EXP.]


    [Host body has yet to adjust to mystic power, EXP has been stacked.]


    Ding!


    [Due to the concentration of EXP, the Hosts body adjustment phase has been elerated.]


    ____


    With a set of wide eyes, Marius stared at this while thinking to himself.


    <em>''Well now, I didn''t think this was possible, that old man said that we''d need time to adjust for every major rank advancement, and it was so when I advanced from G Rank to F Rank. However, it might be that the system itself isn''t fully constrained by these rules; I wonder, would this be an effect of my special status?''</em>


    When Marius thought to here, he nced at his status Chosen Born with pensive eyes but shook his head soon after as he concluded.


    <em>''It doesn''t matter; this makes it easier to protect my family; if I can speed it up more, then all would be worth it; looks like I''ll need to take more missions and fight more monsters as soon as possible.''</em>


    Following his conclusion, Marius then turned his attention to the others and spoke, "Okay, kiddos, you can clean up some of these guys, let''s hurry; the night isn''t far off, and I need to head back home soon."


    <em>''Hmph! As if he''s really married,''</em> Leya thought while rolling her eyes, not buying it.


    Quon and Illiak made helpless stares but didn''t dare to dally; they began to clean up the corpses and source any valuable parts on their bodies.


    Marius watched as they picked up a few parts which soon vanished after a light glow of a ring on their fingers; his eyes lit up as he thought to himself.


    <em>''Ah, so those are storage devices like those in fiction books, haha, awesome, but not better than my item box.''</em>


    With a feeling of satisfaction, Marius didn''t bother to look at their actions anymore. Instead, his eyes turned a bit deeper as he inspected their stats.


    ____


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Leya Paltine]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 23| <strong>Age</strong>: 18]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Artiman]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: 1 Star E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: F | <strong>Strength</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: Mystic Magic Arts]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Mystic Boost]


    ____


    [<strong>Name</strong>: Quon Ranger]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 24 | <strong>Age</strong>: 19]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Artiman]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: 1 Star E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: F | <strong>Strength</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: E | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: Wind Aura Arts]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Agility Boost]


    ____


    <strong>[Name:</strong> Illiak Olon]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 23 | <strong>Age</strong>: 19]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Artiman]


    [<strong>Battle Rank</strong>: 1 Star E Rank Warrior]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: F | <strong>Strength</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F | <strong>Dexterity</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Mystical Power Arts</strong>: Non-Element Sutra]


    [<strong>Inborn Abilities</strong>: Rage]


    ____


    Marius''s eyes flickered when he saw this as he thought,<em> ''Ha, it turns out these kids are even a few levels above me; for them to even battle and defeat that 3 Star E Rank Bird through teamwork, they must be what they call talents in this world. Hmm, those two quirky kids are Fourth Grade, but that emo brat is even higher, reaching the Third Grade. There might be more to him than meets the eye...''</em>


    When Marius''s thoughts reached here, his eyes nced at Leya, and Quon, before fixing onto Illiak, who soon nced at him curiously as if he sensed Marius''s stare.


    Marius smiled at this and then continued walking up the mountain as he spoke, "Come on, guys, you should have gathered enough by now. Let''s go; I can sense a powerful presence a little distance from here."


    Leya and the others felt a bit annoyed by Marius''s words, especially as he treated them like baggage. But they soon finished collecting enough rare parts and followed.


    After a few more minutes of hiking an endlessly high hill, they soon arrived at a region with thick bushes and a wide-open patch ofnd. The air here carried a bloody vor, as one could even smell the scent of death lingering nearby.


    Illiak frowned at this as he spoke, "I... I don''t like this feeling."


    "Me either," Leya added from the side; she started to look around frantically.


    Quon narrowed his eyes, simrly observing the area, but soon halted as he saw Marius staring in a direction. Not only himself, Leya and Illiak, saw Marius change and wanted to say something, but Marius soon spoke to answer their worries.


    "We''ve arrived, but it seems we weren''t the first to challenge that beast."


    "What?" Leya and the others said in confusion, but soon, a startling cry sounded like someone was grievously injured, bringing a dark mood to the field.

 Chapter 77: The Pitiful Herculean, The Mighty Silverback Mystic Ape

    Chapter 77: The Pitiful Herculean, The Mighty Silverback Mystic Ape


    Rooooaaaarrrr!


    A brutal battle cry resounded far and wide as a gush of wind spread out, ruffling the sturdy tree branches as shrubs swayed back and forth, while gravel took to the air with the stray leaves.


    Looking at the scene more closely, one would notice a giant ape with primarily ck fur and silver hair on its back stood grandly of a height of eight meters. Its body emanated a dense silver color mystic power as its eyes shone in a red ray when it red before it.


    Currently, it towered above arge-bodied man, the scar on his cheek giving him an aggressive edge as his short brown hair was unruly. He held onto a giant de with his trembling arms as a pile of corpses surrounded him, some being unrecognizable due to the brutality used to crush them into piles of meat.


    Suddenly, this man coughed out a bit of blood as he slumped over, threatening to fall onto his knees, but as if he refused to express such weakness, he stabbed the edge of his giant de into the ground to bnce his body upright.


    Herculean was having a bad day; after his encounter with the mystical and powerful man outside of the Seeker''s Union, he had ventured into the wilderness with his party toplete their newest quest. The Silverback Mystic Ape was one of the most powerful monsters to face on the E Rank Mission Boards and one of the most rewarding.


    As such, one could imagine the number of challengers who had opted to take on the quest. Sadly, each and everyone who chose this mission had failed, and that was due to a reason with which Herculean himself had pitifully only found out.


    <em>''Damn, they all died, simply because of my foolishness, I thought too highly of myself... and now, I''ll pay for it.'' </em>


    Herculean cursed at himself inwardly due to his tired breath, his eyes shifting from the ape to the bodies of his formerrades.


    As if the Silverback Mystic Ape had enough of him, it lowered its posture with both arms on the ground, looking like a runner about to dash. With its music power scattering from its body, the ground rippled before breaking into fissures as it gathered power to finish him.


    Herculean felt weak when seeing this; the energiesing from the beast was more than enough to make him feel suppressed, but as of he didn''t want to go down without a fight, his weakened eyes burned with spirit as he tightly gripped the handle of his de and shouted.


    "You may have beaten in force, but even if I end up dying, you won''t break my spirit!"


    Bang! As if his words had inspired something within him, Herculean drew strength from the unknown as he hoisted his de and brandished it ahead of himself.


    "Eruption sh!" His voice sounded as a wide sh wave fired towards the Silverback Mystic Ape.


    As if viewing Herculean''s attack as an insult to its pride, the Silverback Mystic Ape roared as it pushed it from the ground with its muscr arms.


    With a swoosh, its body blurred due to its high movement speed which then crashed through the energy wave that exploded after a loud bang.


    As if unimpeded by it, the ape charged ahead like a rocket, its towering silver-colored mystic power shrouding its fists that positioned ahead of it as if aimed to crush Herculean with the fabled ''superman'' assault.


    Herculean, seeing that his all-out attack failed, was shocked, but even so, he didn''t show fear or regret; his face remained firm as if even if facing death, he would die without flinching.


    OUU! The violent battle shout of the Silverback Mystic Ape sounded once more as it was only one step away from pulverizing his human adversary, but right before it happened, there was a change.


    "Gravity Fall..." An emo-like voice said, followed by a towering gray power that swept around the body of the ape.


    Boom! With a loud collision sound, the Silverback Mystic Ape crashed into the ground due to the sudden surprise; its fist smashed into the earth, creating an explosion of force that pushed away from the stunned Herculean.


    With a cry, Herculean flew away in the air andnded on a towering tree. He promptly held onto the branch as he spat out another chunk of blood.


    "Wha... what the hell happened?" Herculean said in surprise, but as if answering his question, the scene he saw before him made him open his eyes. He eximed, "Who the heck are they?"


    Right now, a different party appeared, taking advantage of Illiak''s skill that momentarily pinned down the Silverback Mystic Ape, both Quon and Leya attacked, holding nothing back.


    "Mystic st!"


    "Raging Gale Bolt!"


    A bright series of lights fired from Leya''s staff which collected over the Silverback Mystic Ape; they then joined together in a sh before exploding in a sh of white light.


    Quon''s spiraling green arrow crashed down soon after, rupturing arge hole in Leya''s explosion as it crashed into the ape before exploding.


    "Did we get it?" Leya asked as she now held her staff before her with an arm ced above it.


    "I''m not sure, but it should have been injured from our attack," Quon said as he stared at the shy explosive lights with sharp eyes.


    Illiak also crawled out of the darkness from the shrubs. He didn''t say anything but look at the scene with his eyes hidden underneath his hair.


    Time came to a standstill, but in a sh, the lights vanished due to a sinister roar. With another bang, a massive explosion of silver energy scattered from the area of the impact, followed by the slowly rising silhouette of the Silverback Mystic Ape, ring at them with eyes that shone menacingly.


    "What it''s unphased?" Leya eximed in shock.


    "Darn! How is it strong?" Quon cursed as Illiak trembled while taking a step back.


    Marius, who watched this from behind them, shook his head as he made a light movement, traversing the earth as if he was a part of its whole as he swiftly arrived in front of them.


    "Hey... we..." Leya and Quon said as they felt a bit embarrassed.


    Marius knew what they wanted to say, but he waved his hand and spoke, "It''s fine, you kids can leave it to me; this fellow isn''t as simple as he looks."


    As Marius said this, he faced the brutal Silverback Mystic Ape with a smirk as he licked his lips, his eyes shining as he could see its stats along with a few details before his eyes.


    ____


    Ding!


    [<strong>Target</strong>: Silver Back Mystic Ape has been discovered,mencing mission!]


    Ding!


    [<strong>Silverback Mystic Ape</strong>]


    [<strong>Race</strong>: Mystic Beast]


    [<strong>Level</strong>: 29]


    [<strong>Stamina</strong>: E]


    [<strong>Strength</strong>: D(E)]


    [<strong>Agility</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Dexterity</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystic Power</strong>: F]


    [<strong>Mystic Force Powe</strong>r: F]


    [<strong>Innate Skill</strong>: Power Boost (Passive) - Strength Increases by 1 Star passively.]


    [<strong>Abilities</strong>: Iron Furr, Raging Ape Fist, Earth Shattering Roar]


    ____


    <em>''This should be a little fun...''</em> Marius thought as he had a feeling that the quest might have been more worth it than he had initially thought.

 Chapter 78: Clash Between Monsters

    Chapter 78: sh Between Monsters


    Both man and beast stood a distance away from each other, ring at their foes like an apex predator readying to snatch its prey. The air sharp and heavy as if their very presence could distort its flow as even before hitting with their fists, their towering mystic energies shed in a brutal show of force.


    Bang! The earth shook as if giants were fighting, stones and gravel flying about as it even pushed back the weaker amidst the scene.


    "Oh heck, this uncle is even stronger than I thought, to think his strength is so absurd!" Leya said in shock as she saw Marius''s body erupting with dense white mystic power that seemed to be one step higher than the Silverback Mystic Ape''s.


    "Indeed, he''s far too strong,parable to Famed Warrior; I can''t believe no one''s ever heard of him," Quon added from the side with simr surprise in his eyes.


    If anyone amongst them didn''t show much excitement, it was Illiak who still remained gloomy; he stared at the scene with his eyes shrouded by his hair as he murmured, "Power... is this his strength?"


    His eyes flickered as if thinking about something, but at this time, the fight between Marius and Silverback Mystic Ape had officially begun.


    The ape blurred and vanished with a roar, using swift movement not fitting for its massive size; it appeared shortly after at Marius''s side and swung its fist towards his tiny body.


    While doing this, an illusion of a fierce ape appeared around its body, adding even more to the overwhelming force headed towards Marius.


    "Oh no, that''s its Raging Ape Fist, uncle, watch out!" Leya called out in rm, but right as she finished her words, Marius had acted.


    "Let''s see who''s stronger, Seven God Fist!"


    Marius shouted as he channeled his Strengthen All skill into his Seven God Fist, striking a punch towards the Silverback Mystic Ape''s fist. An illusionary fist appeared over his body, crashing into the impression of the ape around his foe.


    Suddenly an explosive boom sounded as a heavy gush of wind erupted from their collision, the shockwave scattering for a few dozen meters as it pushed back Leya and the others even further.


    A rippling sh of power scattered from both attacks as their fists tore through the illusory images and finally connected, creating another explosive boom of mystic power.


    A crater formed with a bang before their energies faded, showing the man and beast that stood silently with their fist connected. Their eyes were sharp as they red at each other as if assessing their foe''s next move.


    Leya''s mouth opened wide at this; she was now lost for words, not only her, even Herculean who had now regained his focus, looked at the scene or rather, the familiar man in amazement.


    "It''s that guy... to think he was so strong."


    Not caring about the other''s views, Marius stood a step back as did the Silverback Mystic Ape, both distancing themselves by a few meters.


    "You''re a strong one, but not strong enough...e, show me your full strength," Marius said as he beckoned the ape.


    Feeling irritated by Marius, the Silverback Mystic Ape gripped its fists tightly and gritted its teeth. A dominating power formed around it as it''s arched its body backward taking in arge breath that seemed no different from a ck hole''s suction force.


    Soon, it leaned its body forward with its massive head facing Marius, opening its mouth and roaring to releasing a rippling wave of silver-colored energy.


    Marius''s eyes narrowed at this; he felt that the attack was threatening, but he didn''t want to dodge it; he stood his ground and crossed his arms over as his entire body tensed.


    In moments, the energy wave released by the Silverback Mystic Ape had traversed the distance and swept by Marius at great speeds. The trees and boulders in its vicinity shattered to bits as if hit by a series of bombs. Even Marius felt as if he was being crushed from all directions.


    "Everyone, stay near me, Mystic Barrier!"


    Leya promptly shouted as she waved her staff, conjuring a barrier before them. Quon and Illiak naturally stood close to her, the energy wave that scattered finally arrived at their location, but as it had run out of power, the destruction caused was minimal as the barrier easily mitigated it.


    "Is everyone okay?" Leya asked as she looked at the others.


    Quon nodded and replied, "I''m fine, still that guy, he''s able even to tank its fabled Earth-Shattering Roar."


    Leya, whose attention now shifted towards the scene, agreed as she saw Marius standing tall with only a few injuries; she muttered, "This uncle really is a monster..."


    Back within the battlefield, Marius looked at his slightly wounded body with excitement as he licked his lips; he couldn''t help but speak in joy, "I''ve gotten injured, it''s been such a long while, I''d have thought I couldn''t bleed anymore. Still, I can see the limits of your strength; I suppose it''s time we end this big guy."


    The giant ape only grew more provoked at Marius''s manner; it was a bit surprising that he survived its most powerful skill, but that didn''t mean that it was going to give up.


    Roar! With another savage cry, it adopted the running posture with both arms on the ground once more. The earth was trembling because of its overwhelming mystic power that once again erupted from its body. In seconds, its fur skin began to shimmer like metal as it turned a shade darker.


    Marius''s eyes flickered at this as he thought, <em>''Oh, so that must be its Iron Furr skill, it looks like my fists won''t be able to hurt it anymore, but... that''s only my fist...''</em>


    Without another word, Marius raised his arm to the side, causing his battle-ax to appear; he spun it before holding its handle with both arms, his manner turning cold and icy as if he was ready to make a kill.


    The Silverback Mystic Ape, having d its entire body by its iron-like fur, smirked as if feeling confident that no one could harm it, even more so for the foe it tested in hand-to-handbat.


    Even though its foe took out a strange stick, it still didn''t feel any threat to its life, as such, without another word, it charged again, kicking the ground with its legs to propel itself at blur-like speeds.


    It vanished behind the foe with a whoosh, striking another of its Raging Ape Fist towards him in a violent manner. The wind grew chaotic due to its force, and it seemed that its foe was only one step from death, but sadly, it was mistaken.


    Before the attack even arrived, Marius smiled and took a light step forward, his foot which touched the ground, sent out an invisible ripple as if what it touched wasn''t the earth but a ripplingke.


    In that instance, Marius vanished from sight as the ape''s fist crashed into the ground, shattering everything within that few meter''s range into rubble.


    "OU?" The Silverback Mystic Ape uttered in confusion as it saw the crumbled earth before its eyes, the dust clearing away to reveal no corpse of the human, it tried to understand the situation, but it seemed that it would never get the chance.


    As silent as a cat moving through the night, Marius charged towards the rear of the Silverback Mystic Ape, his steps leaving behind light ripples on the earth each time as his figure flickered and appeared from one location to the next.


    Finally, he made a jump, arriving directly behind the neck of the clueless Silverback Mystic Ape, his eyes shining in a cold and ruthless light as he spun his body like a gig and chopped the shimmering edge of his battle-ax downward.


    <em>''Twisting Gale Swing!''</em> Marius shouted at the core of his mind, his power erupting to its fullest, causing the already sharply gleaming edge to glow even brighter.


    With a sharp cutting sound, the battle-ax cut across the neck of the Silverback Mystic Ape as a cyclone of savage and brutal winds swirled around its body before vanishing.


    The Silverback Mystic Ape sensed a dangerous force, it was about to react, but before it could even take action, it saw Marius appeared at its side with his ax held downward.


    "Ouu!" The Silverback Mystic Ape roared, prepared to strike him to death. It wanted to swing its arm with full strength but soon found that much to its dismay; it couldn''t move its body. In fact, it felt as if it was disconnected from everything as its world spun upside down, showing itsrge frame in a third-person perspective.


    With a thudding sound, the Silverback Mystic Ape''srge head fell to the ground, surrounded by the pool of blood that came from itsrge corpse.


    Marius stared at this coldly and smirked. He soon shook his head, regaining his usual mood as he cracked his joints and spoke, "Haha, now that was fun."


    The others looked at him in shock, Herculean staring mostly in horror as if he had encountered a monster this world has never seen before.

 Chapter 79: A Shocking Notification, End of the Mission

    Chapter 79: A Shocking Notification, End of the Mission


    "He did it! Oh, dear Uncle, you''re too awesome!" Leya said with joy as she ran out from the ruined woods.


    "Haha, we actuallypleted such a terrifying E Rank Mission; I knew it was an excellent choice to join him, wasn''t it, Illiak?" Quon said as he nudged Illiak''s side with his shoulder.


    Illiak lowered his head and mumbled, "We didn''t do much... but um well, y...yeah, I think it was good to join him."


    "Huh? What was that Illiak? I didn''t get that, can you say it more clearly?" Quon asked as he didn''t hear much of what Illiak said.


    "Nothing nothing" Illiak said while keeping his head down.


    Looking at the lively scene, Herculean, who had gotten down from the tree, wiped the blood from his mouth, which had yet to close from his shock; he was still shaken up by how Marius defeated such a vicious beast.


    <em>''Even those newly emerging Famed Warriors of the D Rank would have some trouble fighting this beast, it would take a good bit of strategy and skill for them to kill it, but this guy treated it like it was some walk in the park, so crazy...''</em>


    Herculean thought to himself in disbelief.


    Not minding the others, Marius, who looked at the corpse of the Silverback Mystic Ape, had a bright expression as he saw a notification.


    _____


    Ding!]


    [You have defeated a Silverback Mystic Ape, you havepleted your E Rank Mission, return to the Seeker''s Union to receive your rewards!]


    Ding!


    [Converting Silverback Mystic Ape''s life force into EXP.]


    Ding!


    [Host body has yet to adjust to mystic power, EXP has been stacked.]


    Ding!


    [Due to the concentration of EXP, the Hosts body adjustment phase has been elerated.]


    Ding!


    [EXP has reached the threshold, no further EXP can be stacked, Host body adjustment phase isplete. The Host can now open the Advancement Trial Zone!]


    _____


    <em>''Hahaha, talk about a blessing; it truly was as I''d anticipated, now I can strengthen further and better protect my family!''</em>


    Marius thought to himself whileughing, his fist tightly clenched as if trembling with excitement.


    "Huh, what''s with the uncle now?" Leya murmured with a strange look on her face, even more so as she saw himughing like an idiot.


    "It might be a type of victory ritual..." Quon said with a thoughtful expression; Leya frowned as she didn''t think it was so.


    Illiak, on the other hand, stared at Marius more intently, his eyes flickering as his thoughts remained unknown to all.


    Marius paid them no mind; no one knew better than him the value of his current change and the benefits of strengthening at an elerated rate. Though he didn''t show it on the outside, he was, in fact, a bit concerned for his family, even more so after hearing Ria''s details of her past and his entire family''s current circumstances.,


    As such, the faster he can improve his strength, the better he will ovee or resist the unexpected.


    No longer dallying within his thoughts, Marius gestured towards the corpse and spoke to Leya and the others.


    "Well, we''re done here, pack up our proof, and what''s valuable, it''s time to head home..."


    "Darn, he''s treating us like porters again!" Leya cursed, but though she said this, she had already started to clean up the corpse.


    "So what? We couldn''t do anything in the end; we are stronger than him by at least One Star, from what I''ve sensed. Yet, his Inborn Skill can put him on a levelparable to those Famed Warriors," Quon said with a thoughtful expression on his face; he too was helping out; he had already received the prove, being the head of the ape.


    Leya showed a curious look at this time; she had simrly noticed this fact; she spoke whisperingly, "Quon, what rank do you think his Inborn Skill is?"


    Quon made a pensive look before giving up and replying with a helpless smile, "No idea, it''s definitely not like ours; then again, we have yet toplete our mastery. It could be that instead of training his mystic power, he spent most of the years building a strong foundation with his techniques and Inborn Skill."


    "Hmph! I think it''s thetter," Leya said, refusing to believe her Inborn Skill was lower than Marius.


    Illiak though meek, also felt a bit the same; his face even had a slight look of not wanting to admit he was inferior.


    "What are you brats doing? Hurry up, or I''ll leave without you!" Marius''s voice sounded from the side as he turned around and started to leave.


    "Hey, wait up! We''re not finished yet!" Leya said as she picked up her pace.


    Quon and Illiak moved around flustered; Marius snickered at this and paid them no mind; his attentionnded onto Herculean.


    When Herculean saw Mariuse over, he didn''t wait but moved in front of him and bowed before speaking in a tone of gratitude.


    "We meet again; I didn''t think I''d end up being saved by a master like you; I sincerely offer you my gratitude."


    Marius smirked at this and walked up to him; he then smashed his hand onto Herculean''s muscr shoulder, a powerful force stirring him as he pulled in an upright stance and spoke.


    "Don''t mention it, it''s nothing pal,e now, a man shouldn''t lower his head so easily, rather than saying sappy words, let''s wash it down with some drinks!"


    Herculean was a naturally brute-like man by nature, so he knew <em>''brute nguage,''</em> he smacked Marius''s shoulder with his hand as well and replied, "Haha, that''s great! My brother, you''re right; liquor is the only way for men to share gratitude, don''t worry, I''ll be paying for it. Might I ask, what''s your name?"


    Marius gave him a good look and answered, "It''s Marius."


    "Good to meet you, Sir Marius, the name''s Herculious, but please like my friends, call me Herculean!" Herculean said with a smile.


    Marius seeing that his mood had recovered, asked, "Okay, Herculean, I''m curious, are you going to bury them?"


    When he said this, he pointed towards the corpses of the formerrades of Herculean. Herculean looked at them with a tinge of sadness in his eyes as he replied, "That''s right, although we weren''t that close, it was still my fault that they had fallen here; I should have never gotten so confident. Since I survived, the least I could do is offer them afortable ce to rest."


    Herculean didn''t idle when he spoke but moved towards the bodies; he promptly gathered them and cleaned up the area.


    Marius''s eyes flickered at this, his eyes showing a recollective look as he saw Herculean moving the corpses of his allies. Soon, he found himself recalling a battlefield, an incredibly tragic one, filled to the brim with corpses from many forces. He alone stood at the center of this field, covered in blood and bruises, as he stared at a few faces he once called - friends...


    As if he didn''t want to think about it anymore, Marius forced himself away from those memories; he took a step towards Herculean while muttering to himself.


    "Well, it''s not thatte; I''ll help him out before we head back."


    The scene here, though, one of victory, taking on a slightly somber mood as tworge men neatly arranged the corpses of a dreary battle, putting their souls at ease.

 Chapter 80: The Buster Bladers, Returning to Seeker鈥檚 Union

    Chapter 80: The Buster ders, Returning to Seeker¡¯s Union


    The evening sun had fallen, and the curtain of night had once more graced the world; Ivanov, like everywhere else, was now as lively as it could be, its streets lit by its nightnterns as travelers and locals mingled about in the afterhours.


    The Seeker''s Union was especially lively, its entrance crowded with lone Seeker''s, and even famous parties that had just returned from their quests.


    Right now, a crowd of seekers gathered as they stared at the group that had just left the mission area. They were chatting while pointing at them with fervor in their eyes.


    "Did they really pull that off? Such a difficult mission isn''t something an uprising party can aplish," One person said.


    "What are you saying? The proof is over there. Look, that''s the head of a Mystic Ice Sparrow from the Frigid Ice Lands. These Buster ders have truly done it this time; with this, their ranking as D ss Seekers is set, they might even move on to the Imperial Capital to take missions from our main branch," Another person added from the side.


    "Really? That''s just insane; these guys were only a pinnacle E ss Party a year ago; they sure advance quickly." The former person said with surprise on their face.


    A few persons also thought the same, but a scoffing voice soon spoke from the side, "Hmph! There'' quick, but not good enough, even in the capital, there are quite a lot of D ss Seeker Parties, each filled to the brim with rising talents who''ve left the Royal Academy. Regarding our branch, either re Mage Ke or the Gold Bowman Hoffman could outdo these Buster ders in terms of progress. I hear that both quite aplished now as D ss Seekers, and they''ve even gotten attention from Imperial Knight Pce. Hehe, I''d say by the time these rookies even reach the capital, they''d have be Lesser Knights." A rtively experienced man said from the side as he chugged down a cup of liquor.


    "Ah, yes, he''s right, those two are freaks after all," Someone said a bit awkwardly, the scene here slowly dying out as everyone agreed with the man''s words.


    As for the party in question, the leader was a forthright-looking man with brown hair and a well-shaved beard. He donned a suit of light armor with a short sword at his waist.


    This man frowned as he heard the words from the onlookers; even his party members had resentment in their eyes, even more so for a freckled face woman with long ck hair that wore a leather battle dress with two knives.


    "Tsk, they don''t know what''s good for them, do they think just anyone could defeat a Thunder Sparrow," The female scowled.


    "Marga, let it be, we won''t be in this useless city for much longer anyway, or the road is much farther from here..." The leader said in a calm tone.


    Marga shook her head and replied, "Yeah, I guess you''re right."


    The others of the party nodded; amongst them was a familiar rat-like face; he looked around while thinking, <em>''Heh, these idiots didn''t know that our party had grown a level from this fight. We''ll likely be able topete against apetent D ss party. Huhu... I truly made a good choice joining them early.''</em>


    Rat Wringman thought to himself with a smirk on his face.


    A few persons saw him and made sick looks, he was already unpleasing to look at normally, but when he smiled like that, it only made them feel like they wanted to vomit.


    <em>''Those bastards... I''ll get them someday,''</em> Rat angrily thought as he was sensitive to such looks; he gripped his fists tightly, not saying anything as his eyes shed coldly. However, soon, his expressions turned to surprise and excitement as he saw another partying their way.


    Naturally, the group that appeared was Marius and the others; they moved through the fairly crowded path, catching a few person''s attention, most recalling them from the trials earlier.


    <em>''It''s that guy; I can finally get to recruit him!''</em> Rat Wringman thought to himself as his manner became one of joy.


    The party leader nced at him curiously and spoke, "Rat, what''s wrong? You''ve got an interest in that newbie party?"


    Rat looked at him and replied, "Respected Felix, these are the ones I mentioned before; they are prominent talents from today''s Drilling Trials, the one at the lead is even more incredible, defeating an Elite Berserk Ape. I fear that his strength would beparable to yours from before your advancement."


    "Oh, the strongest possible monster for an assessment, truly amazing. For such a talented guy to appear at this time, it might just be a blessing. Hmm, okay, I''ll permit you to recruit him and his friends. I''ll be headed off to our base; we need to pack up for our trip to the capital," Felix said while walking off.


    "Yes, sir," Rat replied with a salute.


    "Hehe, don''t mess up now, Rat..." Marga said as she ran off with Felix; the others gave Rat a knowing look as they all went off towards a different location.


    <em>''Heh, I certainly won''t...''</em> Rat thought to himself. He started to make his way over to Marius''s party.


    Marius had noticed that the crowd here had gathered for somemotion, but he didn''t pay them any mind, even the few who talked and whispered about him were ignored.


    He was about to enter the mission quarters, but he soon heard Leya''s voice, "Uncle, we have a guest."


    Marius frowned as he turned in the direction Leya hinted and saw a rat-faced man walking over. He looked at the man deeply before turning away, prepared to walk, but as if flustered, the man hurried over and babbled.


    "Mr. Edgewick, please, a moment of your time."


    Marius, who wanted to ignore his sighed as he turned to face the person, asked impatiently, "What? Do you need something?"


    Rat frowned as he heard Marius''s tone, but he didn''t put it on his mind; he made a warm look as he ced his hand together and spoke.


    "Ah, sorry, I won''t take up too much of your time. My name is Rat Wringman; I''m a part of an uprising party known as the Buster ders, my party leader has been looking for a few talented recruits to join in on our expected, and I believe that you are a good fit."


    When Marius heard those words, he rolled his eyes as he thought to himself, ''Yet another one appears; they just don''t get it, do they?''


    Marius was about to leave without saying anything, but Rat, who saw this, showed an anxious look as he hurriedly spoke again. "Wait, Sir Edgewick, I believe that we can discuss..."


    Marius seemed to have grown tired of Rat''s words; he nced at him icily and spoke, "Listen here, pal, I am not interested in joining a party, now get lost!"


    Leya also added fuel to the mes, pointing at him and as she spoke, "That''s right, the uncle is already our party leader, so move on rat-face!"


    Quon chuckled at this, but Illiak said nothing; their party once more continued onward, ignoring everything else.


    Rat''s face turned worse at those words; he never thought he would be humiliated like this; he gritted his teeth as he stared at their backs while mumbling word for word in a voice-only her could hear.


    "You''ll regret this... mark-my-words..."


    The air around him turning icy as he soon left, leaving behind a usually lively scene and the onlooking crowds of Seekers.

 Chapter 81: Completing the Mission

    Chapter 81: Completing the Mission


    When Marius''s group entered the mission area, many paid attention to him and his group. There were many E ss Parties as the active D ss Party, the Buster ders having already left after causing amotion.


    "Hey, that''s that Edgewick guy, wasn''t it?" Someone asked while hinting at Marius with his eyes.


    "Oh, yeah, that newbie from today''s Drilling Trial, I heard he went on his first mission today; it appears that he''s formed a party with those three gifted ones as well," Another person said.


    "Ah, what kind of beast do you think they killed?" The former individual asked.


    "No idea, but it''s at the very least, guaranteed to be something adequate," The other person said, thinking it not to be too formidable.


    Marius didn''t want to waste time as it waste; he quickly headed towards the nearest counter, whereby a pretty female receptionist greeted him.


    "Good afternoon, Seeker Edgewick. Are you here to turn in a mission?" The female asked.


    Marius nodded and replied, "Correct, but... this mission wasn''t done by myself; I worked with these kids behind me."


    The female made a curious look as she stared at Leya, Quon, and Illiak, ring at Marius due to his former statement. Still, she didn''t keep distracted for long; she promptly made a polite smile and inquired.


    "Great, might I ask which quest your party is turning over?"


    Marius frowned at the word party, but he shook his head before speaking, "A simple one, I take it that you should know this creature''s head."


    Following his words, Leya and the others looked at each other before showing looks of excitement. The female receptionist didn''t have much anticipation as she heard the words <em>''simple one,''</em> she calmly observed as Leya waved her hand, causing her wristlet to shine before releasing the massive head of an ape beast.


    When the female receptionist saw this, not only her but everyone in the nearby vicinity had looks of rm on their faces, beginning a brand newmotion in the mission area of the Seeker''s Union.


    "That... that''s the head of the Silverback Mystic Ape! You''re telling me theypleted that Upper-ss E Grade Mission?!" One person eximed.


    "Incredible, that thing was said to have given even newly instated D ss Seeker''s a hell of a time; how did the hell did they pull it off?" Another person said in shock.


    "And I thought that those guys from the Buster ders were on the rage; it looks like things are more than I''d expect.


    Themotion continued as even the female receptionist looked at Marius and his party with awe. Leya giggled as she puffed out her chests; Quon also raised his head, having an air of confidence, Illiak on the other hand, scratched the back of his head shyly.


    <em>''Tsk, as expected of kids...''</em> Marius thought to himself as he shook his head; not wanting to waste any more time; he looked at the receptionist and spoke.


    "Hey, I really need to get going; how about that reward?"


    "Ah, please forgive me, I''ll be done in a sec," said the receptionist, who soon regained herposure; her face reddened a bit as she quickly calmed her emotions and looked over the reward details.


    After confirming everything, she an object onto the head, which caused it to turn into moats of light entering the device. Not long after, she then took up a small ring and ced it on the table before replying, "All done, here is your reward, please doe again."


    ____


    Ding!


    [Mission Compete!]


    Ding!


    [Recieved 55 Mastery Pts!]


    ____


    Marius smiled at his notification but paid it no mind as he took the ring with interest; he scrutinized it before using his mystic power to touch its surface. Soon, an image appeared in his mind, showing a stack of Krills, numbering up to 11000.


    <em>''Ohh, handy, but not as good as my storage space. Still, I can always use it as a means of covering it up.''</em>


    Marius thought with a smile as he put the ring on his finger; he turned around and spoke, "Come on, let''s go."


    Leya and the others nodded and followed behind Marius, who soon left the missions area, headed to a quieter ce. While leaving, a slender figure stared at Marius''s group, eyeing them deeply before turning and leaving to a corner.


    Here, a fat-faced figure sat down with his finger tapping a desk; he looked at the slender male that came over and asked, "So, how was it? What did they kill for their first mission?"


    "Young master Lawrence, they... they..." The man tried to say something but hesitated.


    "They what? Hurry and spill it!" Jack shouted in annoyance.


    The man sighed and spoke, "They took down the Silverback Mystic Ape."


    "What?!" Jack said in shock, he would have never thought such a thing could happen, he red at the man, thinking he was lying, but the man trembled, lowering his head.


    Jack knew that hisckey wouldn''t lie; he clenched his fists tightly, whiling thinking with sharp eyes, "This cannot do, they''ll only grow to overshadow my party, I have to do something, anything..."


    Theckey seemed to could have told Jack''s thoughts; with a pensive look, he spoke, "Master, I believe there''s something you should know about that Edgewick."


    "Hmm, what is it?" Jack asked.


    Theckey looked at him and spoke, "He offended quite a few names, one, in particr, being that big-timer from that Ivanov''s Battalion Unit, the Rose Pickers."


    Jack was surprised by this; he snorted while speaking, "Hmph! He actually had such guts to offend such a fellow, this works better; I think I might have a perfect idea, hehe."


    Theckey felt creeped out by Jack''sughter but didn''t say anything as he calmly listened to the n spoken off with somewhat fearful eyes.


    In another location of the Seeker''s Union, Marius and the others had arrived at a silent sector; Marius waved his hand, causing 6000 Krills to appear on top of a table before he spoke.


    "Alright, I believe that should be enough for you guys."


    Leya looked at the cash and frowned as she spoke, "Hey, that''s too little!"


    Quon shook his head a bit discontented, but as for Illiak, he didn''t seem to mind the money.


    Marius stared at them and spoke, "Well, you were the guys that chose to follow me. Remember, if you want more, then you''re going to have to be of more help, maybe getting stronger first, haha."


    "You..." Leya gritted her teeth and grumbled but didn''t say anything in the end; she took up her two thousand from the bunch.


    Quon sighed and did the same as Illiak took his sharest with noints.


    Marius nodded at this as he spoke, "Good, I''ll be going home now; I hope you guys get stronger for the next time."


    "Hmph! You wait, uncle; you can''t stay the strongest forever!" Leya said in a tone of a challenge as she shook her slender fist.


    "Haha, sure," Marius said as he walked off, his figure soon fading from their eyes.


    Leya shook her head at this before looking at Quon, who spoke to Illiak; she asked, "Hey, what are you guys going to do tomorrow?"


    Quon looked at her and spoke, "I was thinking about what Sir Edgewick said, we''re going to train. Do you want toe?"


    Leya thought for a bit before nodded as she replied, "If I can show off the next time I see him, then it''ll be worth it."


    Quon nodded at this, his eyes also burning withpetitiveness, Illiak, though silent, also felt the same. Their group soon after left the Seeker''s Union before separating and vanishing into the night-lit streets, bringing an official end to their first adventures.

 Chapter 82: The Inn Master, Returning Home

    Chapter 82: The Inn Master, Returning Home


    Despite the wonders of the night scene of Ivanov, it didn''t take long for Marius to arrive at the tavern he now called home, the tables within the dining hall now bustling with activity as locals and new faces sat and idled away. Now, the sounds of chatting and eating withughter filling the entirety of the Fallen Star Inn.


    Marius entered casually while making his way towards the stairs, his appearance drew quite a few eyes, some of whom he noticed him from the Seeker''s Union Drilling Trials, but as if he didn''t care his eyes shed as he looked at a few new faces, giving off a strong presence.


    One was a bulky man with a bald head and bushy red hair, his hairy chest visible from a loose shirt with no sleeves, showing his bulging arms. He sat in a corner with his arms crossed and eyes closed while leaning back against his chair.


    The second was an ordinary-looking female made with short green hair, her skirt reaching way up her knees, pulling a few eyes entirely from the men that sat at various corners.


    Lastly, a strange white-haired old man satzily at the counter, wearing what seemed like a worn-out mage robe. He held a wooden cane that rested on his shoulders as he looked to be supervising Li''s work.


    <em>''Oh, this inn keeps getting more interesting, new tough guys here and there, you''d think this is the retirement hall for the Seeker Union or something.''</em> Marius thought to himself while chuckling inwardly.


    Marius felt a few hostile intents; his eyes vaguely shifted towards those areas of the room, picking out a few ordinary-looking faces.


    <em>''Tsk, such amateurs,''</em> Marius thought, thinking that if these guys were true assassins, they wouldn''t have been discovered so easily.


    Despite his thoughts, however, he didn''t continue to pay them anymore mind. Right now, he had higher priorities, and that was the meet his lovely wife and kids.


    Li, who was being worked like a horse, wiped the sweat from her flustered forehead; she was about to handle another talk but soon noticed Marius. "Sir Ed..." Lion made to say as her eyes brightened, but as if recalling something, she covered her mouth and nced at the old man behind her.


    The old man seemed as if he had no care in the world, but his eyes soon turned to her as he spoke, "Kiddo, continue with your work; if you meet that quota, then I''ll consider your request."


    Li felt joy at those words; she looked at him like an innocent child and asked, "Inn Master Jen, do you really mean it?"


    "Hoho, when have I ever lied to you?" Inn Master Jen replied with a lightugh.


    Li felt better now; after being worked so hard since the morning, she finally felt that it was worth it. Right now, she was only missing a few more to meet that quota; she didn''t dare t dally anymore as she sped off to handle more work.


    By this time, Marius had already vanished up the stairs, Inn Master Jen cast a casual nce around the inn, but as he did, he saw quite a few shady characters amidst the crowd of idle guests.


    Some having deeply suppressed auras and rich killing intent; it was clear that each of them was from separate forces. They each stared at the stairway in silence, but one by one, as if in agreement they slowly and non-obstructively left the inn.


    "Hoho, well now, it appears that these new tenants are quite the troublemakers, offending so many already having juste into town." Inn Master Jen murmured with curiosity in his eyes.


    Suddenly, he cast a look to the side, noticing that the formerlyrge-bodied man with a red beard had now unknowingly stood at his side. In fact, other than him, the ordinary-looking female made with her loose attire also stood nearby.


    Not being startled in the slightest, Inn Master Jen casually asked, "Bryner, what do you think of him?"


    Bryner, who stood with eyes closed, turned his head towards Inn Master Jen''s position and spoke, "Master, I can say that he''s quite good; I felt a burning spirit within him, a clear sign that he''s at the door to an upgrade in strength. It probably won''t be long before he reaches a decent stage."


    Inn Master Jen nodded at this as he spoke to the female, "And you, Lina?"


    Lina made a strange smile as she replied, "Master, I think that if those from the Alvaria Military, Knight Order, or the Holy Church finds out about him, they might try to recruit him in a frenzy. His age doesn''t seem that old either, yet it won''t take long for him to climb to our stage despite his current level. I feel that we reach out to him..."


    Bryner, who listened, took this chance to add his two cents, "Lina is right, but from the look of that guy, I think he''s more of the type to be independent."


    Lina hesitated a bit before nodding; she felt the same as well; Inn Master Jen smiled at this as he spoke, "Hoho, who amongst us isn''t? It''s fine; you guys find him interesting, and I''m also quite fond of him. Let''s do this; I''ll watch him for a bit more before making a choice. When I do, both of you can reach out to him, even if strong, there are times when you''ll need a helping hand, a lone warrior won''t find it easy to survive the politics of this world."


    Both Bryner and Lina nodded as they turned and went back to their locations; Inn Master Jen also returned to his normal demeanor, leaning back with his eyes closed; the only difference was a strange smile on his face and his thoughts flowing in a direction which no one really knows.


    Unaware of the scene downstairs, Marius, who now moved in the upper halls, soon arrived at his room door; he opened with the key, pushing the door as he spoke, "My dear wife and kids, look who''s home."


    The door soon after opened with an audible creak, revealing a bright and cozy scene as if weing him home

 Chapter 83: A Wife鈥檚 Jealousy

    Chapter 83: A Wife¡¯s Jealousy


    Behind the door, Marius was greeted with the sight that many would envy, filling his wild spirit with a sense of ease.


    There, seated calmly behind it, were his loving family members, resting in ease. Grevlin sat on the ground strangely, looking as if he were meditating. At the same time, Ria, who wore a seductive nightdress, leaned over on a cushion, her slender legs dancing back and forth in the air as she held one hand on her cheek and watched Little Rose provoke the two tiger cubs.


    "Hehe,e here!" Little Rose said she tried to get the tigers to run to her, holding her small arms out and wobbling them up and down.


    The two tigers ran around her, causing her to flop over on her buttocks, but rather than crying, the strong little girl picked herself up and yed more.


    "Mama, cky, and Whitey won''t let me catch them; mama must punish!"


    Little Rose said as she halted her steps, pointing at the tigers, it was unknown when she changed their nicknames, but one could never truly understand the workings of a child.


    "Eh, okay, okay, how will I do it?" Ria said as she looked over at Little Rose, who made an adorable expression, her small finger poking her cheeks as she tilted her head in thought.


    Marius stood at the door, taking all of this in with a strange expression; he felt a bit sullen as he thought inwardly, <em>''Look''s like I''ve been forgotten.''</em>


    Ria snickered at this but didn''t even bother to turn her head towards him, pretending not to see him, but as if Little Rose just smelled something, her tiny noses twitched as she turns her head towards the door.


    Now, seeing the muscr and tall figure, Little Rose''s eyes beamed as she hadpletely forgotten about the tigers.


    "Dadda''s home!" Little Rose yelled in excitement as she ran towards him, her small figure seeming a bit unstable as if she would topple over.


    Marius hurriedly closed the door and entered the room, his arms reaching down and picking up Little Rose in a swift action. Now grabbing the soft and adorable girl in his arms, Marius felt as if his life wasplete.


    He spoke in a gentle tone, "Haha, my little daughter is good. Did you miss papa?"


    Little Rose tightly held on to Marius''s shirt, rubber head against his chest as she replied cutely, "I missed dadda."


    Marius felt even better hearing those sweet words. He gently patted her back while walking over to Ria. Her posture remained the same, with her seductive legs ying by themselves in the air as sheid down frontways on a cushion, a single-arm resting against her chin as she stared at him with a smile.


    Marius felt boiling when he saw her manner, even more so since she emanated a dense pheromone that humans couldn''tpare with, her unparalleled beauty adding even more fire to his spirit.


    Ria made a sly smile seeing Marius look of daze, just a subus taking pleasure at her work, but as if she wasn''t going to give him an easy time, she spoke, "Well-well, look who finally returned home, I''d have thought you''d have forgotten your family."


    "What? How could I? That''s nonsense!" Marius said as he sat down, trying to calm his mood; he put Little Rose on hisp and began to tickle her sides, causing her to giggle and fight back with her small hands.


    "Oh, is that so?" Ria said as her legs moved back and forth even slower, the lights from the room refracting from their edges as if they were smooth and oiled up.


    Marius gulped as he saw this; sweat began to run down his forehead as he saw Ria looked at her gorgeous fingernails, a trait which normally appeared only during certain asions.


    <em>''Oh crap, she''s jealous, but why? There isn''t anything that I''ve...'' </em>


    Marius was about to think something, but as if Ria could read his thoughts, her lips curved into an even slyer smile as she waved her finger, conjuring a plume of me much like that of Little Roses.


    "Hehe, Mama''s ying with fire!" Little Rose said in her broken speech, her manner a bit excited.


    But unlike her, despite the zing heat, Marius only felt a surge of coldness, even more so when the mes formed images of a slender and petite young girl with a mage-like robe and a pair of lively almond-shaped eyes that glistened with pureness.


    Little Rose pped her hands when she saw the female; she pointed at her and spoke, "Wow, mana, she''s so cute!"


    "Yes, she truly is pretty, my adorable daughter? She''s almost as cute as you," Ria said.


    "Hehe!" Little Rose giggled in satisfaction, taking in the praise.


    On the other hand, Marius was different; his mouth opened wide when he saw the individual, his mind sounding an rm, ''Oh shit!''


    His current state caused Ria to smile even wider. Her face turning a bit sinister as she spoke, "I see you''ve found yourself a good party member; she''s so cute and adorable, must be nice to tour the wilderness with her, isn''t that right, dear?"


    "Why... why it''s nothing serious, and it''s not her alone; there are quite a bunch of children that are apanying me. Besides, how could any little girlpare to my wonderful and most beautiful wife?" Marius said, taking a deep breath, calming himself as he stared at her with a charming look.


    Ria snickered at this; but as if not wanting to tease him any longer; she rolled over on the cushion and leaned on her back, her legs crossing as her tongue moved over her lips. Soon, she whispered something that caused Marius to feel a surge of stronger fire in his heart.


    Grevlin, who was busy meditating, opened his eyes and sighed; it was clear he knew what was going on; being the eldest child, Grevlin was the most mature in the family; he knew he wouldn''t be able to feign indifference at this time. Otherwise, it would only lead to trouble considering their parents, who tended to have low self-control.


    "Sister,e, let''s go to bed," Grevlin said as he stood up and walked to Little Rose, who lifted her hands and replied cutely, "Okay."


    Quickly, Grevlin picked up Little Rose and cast a look at both Ria and Marius, who seemed to have entered a different world. He sighed while calling away the tiger cubs and entering the ''designated'' part of the room they should stay, tucking his little sister in a nket as he rested at the other side.


    The two began to y games as he even started to tell her stories, but unlike this sweet, adorable moment between brother and sister. On the outside, a series of vibrations had started, leaving the world to remain quiet for their ears as the night slowly moved by.

 Chapter 84: A Brutal Massacre

    Chapter 84: A Brutal Massacre


    The night was now at its peak, hours after the fierce battle between husband and wife. Grevlin and Little Rose and the two small tiger cubsid silently asleep, showing an adorable innocence as both Marius and Ria, who nestled in each other''s embrace, remained silent with smiles on their faces.


    "They are so cute when they sleep, unlike someone I know," Ria said while nudging Marius''s side with her shoulder.


    "Tsk, not like you''re any better than me," replied Marius. He rolled his eyes before taking a good look at her as she rested in his embrace, the soft glistening skin of her naked upper body seeming to affect him no different from aphrodisiac, as he felt a bit thirsty inside.


    Ria licked her lips as she sensed Marius''s thoughts; she gave a suggestive look and was about to say something, but right as her lips made to move, the duo''s facial expression changed to one of solemnity.


    They both stared at the room door and even the slightly cracked window that showered the interior with the night-lit town lights and high-hanging moon. Vaguely, one could see a few shadows in the shape of different persons.


    Marius had a brutal gleam in his dark eyes as he spoke in whispers to his wife, "It seems that even before I went to act, those bastards had grown impatient; since that''s the case, they can''t me me if I send them on their way."


    Ria giggled at this, her eyes soon after shining in an icy ray as she spoke, "Honey, leave those two at the door to me; I also want to... give vent..."


    "As my lovely wife wishes," Marius said in a tone simr to a butler to his owner, he even went ahead and made a light bow acting in kind.


    Ria snickered at this elbowing him again, the duo looking as if the impending danger was nothing more than a game as they frolicked and whispered. Naturally, this scene didn''t go unnoticed by the hidden group at the window; they ruthlessly stared at the peaceful family with cruel eyes as if jealous to some degree.


    A silhouette at the window stood by two others in silence, ring at Marius before turning his attention to hisckeys and raising his hand. In a second, each of these individuals pulled up their weapons, mostly being daggers that shimmered with the cold moonlight.


    The silhouette nodded at this and prepared to lower his hand, sending themand to attack, but once he turned his sights back into the room, his eyes couldn''t help but shrink as one of the targets was missing. In fact, the beautiful green-haired woman had sat up, revealing more of her gorgeous body, fixing her long hair at the side before she suddenly winked at him.


    ''''Not good!'''' The assassin thought as though he didn''t understand the circumstances. Yet, he knew that something terrible was about to happen. Quickly, he turned his attention back to his men and spoke in a codednguage.


    "Everyone fallback, we''ve beenpromised," The man said in a hurry, but sadly, it would appear that his reaction was a bit toote.


    In an unusual manner, his men kept staring at him dully, causing him to frown with anger and a bit of uneasiness. Soon though, his face turned to one of rm as he saw the men falling over one by one in silence, pools of blood-forming around their bodies which fell to the lower floor of the tavern.


    <em>''How can this happen''</em> The man thought in rm, but even before he could understand what happened, he heard a deep voice.


    "You''re a bit toote there, bud," Marius said as he unknowingly appeared directly at the side of the intruder.


    Shocked by Marius''s sudden appearance, the assassin faltered only for a moment but was experienced in many ways. He hurriedly pulled out his weapons and attacked while simultaneously assessing his chances for escape.


    "Die!" The assassin said as he executed his finisher attack, his knife cutting towards Marius''s neck with great speed and precision, a ruthless glow shimmering at the edge of the knife causing to leave a trailing line of energies.


    "Tsk, you guys sure are amateurs, such a pity," Marius said as he didn''t seem to care about the impending attack. He then waved his hand, which to the surprise of the assassin, nullified the energies behind his attack while shattering the knife into bits of fragments.


    "You... you monster!" The assassin said in horror, taking a step back subconsciously.


    Marius wasn''t in the mood to y around anymore; he slowly reached his arm forward, conjuring a powerful mystic power around it while speaking.


    "Enough wasting time, you''re going to tell me everything you know about your contractors and every single detail with regards to your mission. But, don''t worry; the pain won''tst forever, only for as long as you can hold out."


    As the assassin heard Marius''s words, his face turned pale with fright, even more so when he saw the look in his eyes, a look no different from a demonic killer that had ughtered even more innocents than himself.


    "No, stay away from"


    The assassin wanted to say as he tried to flee. Still, as if he was moving in slow motion, Marius''s arm soon grabbed onto his mouth, firmly gripping him in ce. Still, his muffled groans barely sounded throughout this sector of the inn before it faded as Marius had brought him off into the unknown.


    Back within the room, those behind the door had yet to notice anything that had transpired; Ria calmly watched as the door opened without even a sound, her figure now well dressed as she sat with her legs crossed and fingers ying with a soft doll.


    Seconds after, her body faded as if it became one with the room''s darkness as two silhouettes entered the room. After stealthily closing the door, they carefully looked around, fixing their eyes on the two sleeping children.


    "Leader, I only see two kids; the information said that it was a family of four. Are we in the right ce?" A person that seemed like ackey said.


    The leader remained silent for a while, eyeing the children as he replied, "No, the information is correct; I can tell that their description matches the details. It appears that both parents are quite idle, haha; this is good as there are no obstacles. Since we only needed to kill the man, we can sell off the rest by first starting with them."


    Theckey''s eyes shone with greed as he replied, "That''s a clever idea, sir."


    "mph, enough buttering, and get work, let''s remove them before theye ba " The leader wanted to say something, but soon his words halted in his mouth as he looked at hisckey in horror.


    "Ahhh! Leader, help meeee! Ahhhhh!"


    Theckey suddenly cried out in violent pain, one that, oddly enough, didn''t rm the children nor anyone on the outside. Instead, his body lit up with mes which soon after turned his body into nothingness.


    "This what the hell is going on?" The leader said as he looked around with caution on his face, his mystic power flowing around him as he set for a grueling battle.


    Suddenly, the shadows of the room rippled behind the leader as Ria walked out of nothingness, standing behind the unaware leader in silence as she spoke in a calm tone.


    "Hehe, it''s been a while since I ughtered, mmm. how exciting. Remember... you were the ones who came here, so don''t me me for what happens next," Ria said, bringing a startle to the man; he wanted to react by turning around to strangle her. But sadly, he was toote.


    Ria''s slender finger pointed towards the man''s neck as a plume of fire came forth, instantly setting aze the leader who didn''t even have time to scream in pain before his body vanished, leaving behind not even traces of ashes.


    Ria blew her index finger and rubbed it together with her thumb as she murmured with a disappointed look, "So it''s true as the n says, most Artimans aren''t so durable after all."


    When Ria said such words, she was about to clean up any mess, but soon, her eyes turned to the door once more as she remained silent.


    Vaguely, one could hear a weak set of footsteps along with a stick''s rhythmic sounds, almost as if an elder figure was using a walking stick.


    The sounds faded after a little as if the person was just passing by; Ria soon showed a deep contemtive expression, she thought to herself.


    <em>''We''ve gotten quite the eye us; whether this is good or bad has to be decided, however. Hmm, it''s a good thing I didn''t use my Hellian Skills; that would have gotten us into quite the trouble.''</em>


    Ria then walked around the room with such thoughts in mind, checking that everything was in order before setting herself back into the bed, her eyes staring outside of the window as she thought to herself.


    <em>''Hurry home, my husband, I need more of your warmth.''</em>

 Chapter 85: Marius鈥檚 Rage, An Unknown Figure?

    Chapter 85: Marius¡¯s Rage, An Unknown Figure?


    In a dark, unknown part of the outskirts of Ivanov, deep within the depths of a forest, a vague light source shone at the boundaries of a remote cavern. Following its trail, which grew brighter within a passage of narrow rocky walls, one would near a region where a painful scream resounded, the voice sounding out regrly before halting.


    In this location, a corpse of a man who just died slumped over lifeless on the cavern ground, as the bulky and tall figure of a cked-haired and ruthless-looking man stood over it with bloody arms. His manner calm as his lips curved into a smile while he spoke to himself.


    "A good kill, my it sure has been a while, I''m getting sloppy, to think I had to use even that method to get him to spill the beans..." Marius said as he wiped the blood from his palm with a cloth. He then tossed it onto the corpse, which, oddly enough, had countless fresh scars, each looking to have been carved by a knife.


    After seeing his hand clean, Marius sighed before taking on a cold and ruthless-looking expression, his eyes turning to the exit of the dark cave as peering towards the direction of Ivanov.


    <em>''I didn''t think that by settling in a random town, we''d piss off so many enemies, heh, truly interesting. I originally wanted only a few sources of danger to linger around Grevlin as it could be a great method for his training, but it seems that there are a little too many; most of these fellows areckeys of those petty fools. Not only that, I have yet to deal with that thing Ria mentioned, to think that there''s one particr bastard that doesn''t seem to know his ce, it''s one thing to target Grevlin, but daring to send people after my Little Rose, he is truly asking for death.''</em>


    Marius''s eyes shone in a baleful light when his thoughts echoed, his mystic power turning a bit red as if influenced by his mood. An evil-looking shadow formed over his being as the ground beneath his feet trembled as even in the forest around the cavern, the sleeping beast lifted their head abruptly before scurrying off in rm.


    Marius seemed as if he was about to lose his cool with his murderous aura around him, but suddenly, his aura faded as he returned to normal. Or rather, what seemed like normal, if one paid attention to him now, they would almost miss him as he appeared virtually fleeting, as if he didn''t exist, as if he was merging with his surroundings.


    <em>''I should calm down; even though I''m strong, I''m not at the level to randomly walk sideways in this world. It''s best to inspect the situation first, then make a decision based on the circumstances. If it turns out that I can''t kill him now, then what''s to say I won''t be able to once Iplete my Advancement Trial.''</em>


    Marius thought as he then took a step from his current position, his figure flickering and vanishing from this area as he once more headed towards the direction of Ivanov.


    ***


    In a private room of an active night pub, a familiar rat-faced individual sat in silence as if waiting for something, his shoe patting the ground anxiously as his finger rattled on the desk.


    Suddenly, he gulped down a jug of liquor before putting the jug down and wiping his mouth corners, his eyes ncing out the window at the variousmps with sparsely crowded street wanderers.


    <em>''Che! What''s taking them so long? I have yet to receive any words? Could they...''</em> Rat was about to think something, but before his thoughts could even finish, the door to his private room opened as a shady cloaked figure walked in with a paper.


    The shady figure ced the paper on the desk and turned around before speaking, "Mission failed, as agreed, send the rest of the payment by morning."


    Not even waiting to hear Rat''s words, the person went towards the door, but Rat looked at the paper, picking it up with trembling arms before he red at the man.


    "Hey, you can''t do that?! I can''t pay you the rest when he''s not dead. Do you take me, Rat Wringman of the Buster ders, as a joke?!" Rat shouted as he mmed the paper onto the desk, causing another jug of wine to spill over.


    "Hmm?" The shady figure muttered as he halted, nting his head to the side as it barely revealed his face behind his cloak''s hood, his eyes shining in a dark and ruthless light as an abnormal pressure formed in the room. It was a pressure that caused even Rat to shrink back in fear as it forced him to kneel on to the ground.


    "I... I..." Rat tried to speak but found that it hindered even his breathing; he began to cough as sweat rolled down his forehead.


    Suddenly, the pressure vanished as the lights in the man''s eyes faded, shrouding his face back into the darkness of his hooded robe. He then spoke, "You''d best watch yourself, Mr. Wringman; there are some people in this world that you shouldn''t provoke."


    With that said, the shady man walked out of the room and closed the door, leaving behind Rat, who only now recovered. Soon, the mming noise sounded as Rat''s agonizing voice sounded across the room, reaching even beyond the closed door.


    "Damn it!"


    The shady man paid no heed to this as he walked through a silent hallway, various sounds of different activities from the pub''s private rooms sounding in ears, moans,ughter, and other peculiarities.


    Yet, as if he was unphased by such things, the shady man continued onwards, his arms hidden within his sleeves as he soon arrived outside the building.


    At this moment, a cool night draft blew across his robe, causing it to make pping noises as a whoosh sounded, followed by the sound of footsteps at his side.


    "Speak," The shady man said, not even looking at his side.


    The figure that now stood at his side, dressed simr to the man, spoke, "Master, it''s as you suspected, he annihted both groups dispatched cleanly and efficiently."


    The shady figure remained silent as he waved his hand and spoke, "Good, be sure to keep an eye on him; we will proceed onward as nned. Also, make sure to collect the rest of the payment from that Rat Wringman and those others who inquired our services."


    "As you wish," The figure said before vanishing in the dark.


    Suddenly, the shady man lifted his head, staring at the night sky with mystical sights ofs and stars, his eyes with an odd glint as he spoke as if speaking to himself.


    "Marius Edgewick, it looks like I did well toe here before those knights or even that church; our cult could do well with your services."


    The shady figure showed a strange smile on his vaguely revealed lips as he soon after faded away, merging with the night as he also vanished into the darkness.


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