《Gleam Karma Cultivator Isekai》


 Chapter 1: A Chance encounter

    Chapter 1: A Chance encounter


    Nothing good ever came from starting a conversation in a gas station bathroom. It broke at least three unspoken rules, but not acting would have broken a bigger, more personal one. Chance stepped over a puddle of liquid on the old tiles that could have been either beer or piss  judging by where he was, it probably would have tasted the same.


    Excuse me? Chance asked, clearing his throat as he came to a stop a healthy few feet behind arge man wearing a stained white shirt that was only half covered by the ill-fitting leather jacket over its top.


    The man, who still had his hands on the front of his pants, craned his head back to look at Chance with beady eyes in disbelief. A ratty hat sat askew on his head, and several weeks of stubble vored with Cheeto dust covered his face.


    Yer kidding me, the man said. Im taking a piss. Screw off.


    Chance cleared his throat and held up the wallet hed picked up only a few minutes before. You dropped this.


    Therge man fumbled with his pants, zipping them up with a sharp motion. He swore, yanking the zipper back down and hopping from foot to foot in pain for a few seconds before properly rezipping them.


    Thats not mine, the trucker said.


    Yes it is, Chance said with a frown. It fell out of your pocket when you walked in here.


    The trucker snatched the wallet from his hands and flipped it open. Huh. Guess it is. Didnt realize that was me today.


    Im sorry? Ah, never mind. Im sorry for bothering you. I hope you have a nice day.


    Chance turned to head back out of the bathroom. A meaty hand fell on his shoulder and his stomach twisted. That wasnt good.


    Hold on, the trucker said. I been a bit rude. It would have been real bad if I lost that. Can I get you a drink?


    <em>Dad did always say not to turn down a gift offered up in kindness. </em>


    Okay, if youre sure about it. You really dont need to pay me back or anything, its what anyone would have done.


    Thats what everyone <em>says</em>, but not what everyone <em>does</em>, the trucker replied. He took his hand off Chances shoulder and washed his hands in the stained sink. Names Bob.


    Hi Bob. Im Chance.


    <em>God, did I really just say that? It sounds like Im at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting.</em>


    Bob didntment on it. He shut the water off and wiped his hands off on the front of his shirt  probably the most cleaning it had seen in weeks  and ambled out into the gas station. Chance trailed after him, already regretting his decision.


    Each step sent a tiny pang of pain through him. The ill-fitting shoes hed been wearing for the past year didnt agree much with him, judging by the blisters covering his feet.


    Whaddya want? Bob asked, stopping in front of the liquor isle. Its on me, kid.


    Ah, I dont actually do alcohol, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. Family history. Would milk be okay?


    Bob stared at him. Then he let out a gruntingugh. Kid wants milk. Sure, I did say anything.


    He grabbed a bottle of beer for himself, then snagged one of the small cartons of milk from the fridge behind it. Bob ambled over to the self-checkout, scanning the drinks. The screen lit up with the total of seven dors and fifty cents. He swiped his card through the scanner.


    The machine buzzed, a red error screen shing up on the disy. Bobs eye twitched. He tried a second card and earned himself a second error.


    Youve got to be kidding me. Stupid thing doesnt take card? Bob asked, cursing under his breath and leafing through his wallet. Stupid piece of shit. I hate this ce. Only good thing they have is booze.


    <em>Damn it. But he tried to do something nice for me, I cant just not help. </em>


    Here, Chance said, sliding a ten dor bill into the machines reader. It ate the money and let out a cheerful ding, indicating the change had been dispensed at the bottom. A single quarter rolled out.


    Wait, I was supposed to be buying you something, Bob said as Chance plucked the single coin and stared at it.


    And I was supposed to get more than one quarter as change. Chanceughed. Oh well. It happens. You can just pay it forward somewhere along the road.


    Bob frowned, picking his beer up. Chance scanned the store, but there was no sign of a cashier. He hadnt even seen any cars parked outside the gas station, so hed been mildly surprised to enter and see the wallet falling from Bobs pocket as the trucker walked into the bathroom.


    No cashier, Chance said. Hes probably on a smoke break or something.


    Well, shit, Bob said. I got no paper.


    You mean cash? Thats fine, Chance said. Dont worry about it. It was only a few dors.


    Bob grunted. I suppose so. You headed anywhere?


    Nah. Just killing time, I guess, Chance said. Despite the truckers intimidating appearance, the man was oddly easy to talk to. If Bob just got rid of the omnipresent smell of processed cheese hanging around him, it could have been a normal conversation. That, of course, would have been far too easy.


    They walked out of the gas station and Bob sat down on a bench, gesturing for Chance to join him. With a shrug, he did.


    <em>Not like Ive got anything better to do.</em>


    Shouldnt you be in an academy or something? Bob asked, flicking the cap off his bottle and taking arge swig. Chance carefully popped open his milk carton, making sure not to spill a single drop.


    You mean high school? I already graduated. And Im not going to college  dont have the money.


    You just bought me a drink.


    That was a few dors, Chance said with augh  but not one hard enough to make him drop his drink. There was very little that would cause Chance to spill milk, especially when it was a rare treat. College is a lot more expensive than that.


    Never heard of saving up? Bob asked, giving him a yellow-toothed grin.


    Id be saving forever. Hard to keep money when you dont have anywhere to put it, Chance said, rolling his eyes. Hed long since gotten over the fact that he wasnt going to be going anywhere far in life. You needed resources for that  and he had none.


    You look a little young to be having nowhere, Bob drawled. Stick it under your bed.


    Dont have one, Chance said. Im a free spirit.


    Bob lowered his beer, studying Chance for a moment with his small, dark eyes. You mean you aint got no home.


    Thats one way to put it. Chance shrugged, preparing a line hed said dozens of times to people that wanted to ask a few too many questions. It happens. The recession hit hard. And a truck hit my parents harder.


    Really? What make? Bob asked, his expression bing unreadable.


    <em>Now that isnt the response I was expecting.</em>


    Normally, that put an end to the awkward questions. Nobody had asked him what kind of bloody truck had been the one to mow through his parents, ttening their tiny car and killing them both.


    I  Ive got no clue. Why would I know that?


    Ah. Werent there yerself then.


    No. I would have been dead if I was, Chance said. At least Bob wasnt pitying him. He hated that more than anything else. Lucky me.


    They drank in silence for a few minutes. Then Bob let out a loud belch.


    What are the ns now, kid? Just gonna free spirit it around for the rest of your life?


    Until something happens, I guess, Chance replied. I could get a job, but I dont really want to join the rat race  not that Ive got the education to get anywhere in the first ce.


    Tell me about it, Bob said. Bureaucrats. Politics. Its the absolute worst. Bunch of assholes at the top, I tell you.


    Chanceughed. Do you deal with a lot of that in your job?


    More than you could ever imagine.


    Bob tipped thest of his drink into his mouth. He squinted into the bottle and sighed, tossing it into the trashcan behind them. He studied Chance for a second, something unreadable passing through those tiny eyes of his.


    A shiver ran down Chances spine as goosebumps across his skin. That didnt feel right, but he couldnt quite ce why. He still had a fair amount of his milk left  Chance always savored his milk  so he took another small sip.


    You dont like it here, do you? Bob asked. His voice was different  deeper, like he was speaking from lower in his chest.


    I mean, its not the worst, Chance said. Im alive and here. Thats more than most people.


    What if you didnt have to be? Bob asked. Here, that is. What would you do?


    Thats a dangerous line of thought, I think, Chance said carefully. I mean, if Im dreaming about what could be, Ill never enjoy what is. My dad taught me to be content and optimistic, no matter what happened. I think those were good rules to live by.


    And he got trucked, Bob said, but it didnt sound like he saw that as a particrly negative thing. Sounds like a good man.


    <em>Is Bob trying to imply that only good people get hit by trucks?</em>


    Chance shook his head. The unease died in his chest as soon as it arose. Bob was a little weird, but he knew that the trucker didnt mean any harm by it. The man was just a little awkward.


    He was. I miss him and my mom every day. Thats why I try to live how they did. Maybe Im patting myself on the back, but I think Im doing a good job.


    Chance looked at the ground, where the cap of Bobs bottleid near his feet  bent almost perfectly in half. The tiny flick the trucker had given the cap had nearly sheared it in two.


    But what if you had a shot to take another shot at things somewhere else, where you actually had control over your life?


    What, like if I had magic powers? Or if I was just rich? Chance replied. That sounds amazing, to be honest. I guess Im free right now, but its not the same as being <em>free.</em> Id love to be able to just do whatever I wanted. But that isnt how life works. You deal with the hand youve been dealt, and you do it as best as you can.


    Look, kid. I hate this job most of the time. Its just quotas and awful, bumpy rides. I don''t know how you feel, but I feel for you. Enough to do a little work off the clock. Thanks for making my day a little more interesting.


    No problem. I should probably get going, anyway. It was nice meeting you, Bob.


    Bob didnt respond. Chance blinked. There was no sign of the trucker. All that remained was the faint, lingering scent of cheese. He looked around, baffled. Then his eyes caught on the bent bottlecap on the ground.


    <em>Okay, not a hallucination. But where the hell did he go?</em>


    Chance knelt and picked the bottlecap up, turning it over in his hand as he tried to make sense of what was happening. He grimaced as light reflected off the shimmery cap and straight into his eyes.


    His brain almost made an audible whirr as it kicked into gear and he jerked his gaze up, right into the twin beams of a semitruck that was hurtling toward him.


    It was strange. As death hurtled toward Chance, going well over fifty miles an hour in the middle of a barren parking lot, his brain seemed to pick out the oddest details. The squeal of rubber on cement. A tiny, angel shaped ornament hanging from the rearview mirror. The spilled milk seeping into his shoes. On the grill, a license te read <em>GODTRCK. </em>


    The horn red, and in the window, Bob raised a hand in a sharp salute, a grin crossing his bby face. Then the truck hit him. There was a sh of pain, and Chance knew no more.

 Chapter 2: So long and thanks for all the Cheetos!

    Chapter 2: So long and thanks for all the Cheetos!


    Very few people are ever ready for death. She prides herself on arriving at precisely the right time, but there has been some contention on whether the right time is rtive to her or her quarry.


    Of course, not many ever actually got to bring that up with her. Chance was no exception. As such, his death went much as most did. After the semitruck hit him, there was simply nothing.


    The world blinked out, and then he simply <em>was</em>.


    <em>How curious</em>, Chance mused. <em>This isnt how I thought it would be at all. I kind of expected more something. </em>


    He wasnt sure exactly what he had expected. Perhaps a choir of angels would have been nice. Some gold brick pathways wouldnt have been remiss either. But Chance got none of that. In fact, he wasnt even particrly sure if he was disappointed that his death was so mundane.


    That was only natural, of course. There are not many things that man takes with him as he enters the eternal beyond, and emotions are not one of them. A few people did get the choir, though. Just not Chance.


    In the endless abyss, light bloomed. Chance felt himself drawn toward it. The small speck bloomed, quickly filling the darkness with brilliant white. Then there was cold  and wet. A lot of wet, actually.


    Chance blinked, inhaling and nearly choking as liquid rushed into his lungs. He rolled over, hacking and gasping for air. His body ached as if hed been hit by a truck. After a moment, he realized that was exactly what had happened.


    <em>I must be in a hospital. But what kind of shitty hospital leaves a bunch of water in the damn bed? And why is it so bloody hard?</em>


    He groaned, opening his eyes. Then he blinked. He was sitting on cold gray stone of an old alleyway, not a plush hospital bed. In particr, he was situated directly on arge puddle of stagnant water. His clothes had been reced with a dull grey and brown set that looked straight out of the middle ages.


    Chance rubbed his eyes and looked around again. Nothing changed. A faint wind howled through the alley, nipping at his wet clothes and making him shiver.


    Is this what a concussion feels like? Chance wondered, gently tapping his head. It didnt hurt. He ran his hands over his body, but there wasnt a single wound or even a bruise. A sinking feeling set in as he slowly rose to his feet and stared up at the sky.


    The city rose up all around him, but hed never seen such a vibrant hue of purple in the sky. It was almost magenta, with splotches of pink and orange twisting and dancing through it. All of it was hidden by a heavy haze that hung in the air directly over the alley, blurring everything behind it. He swallowed and blinked onest time.


    Hello? Chance called. There was no response. The knot in his stomach tightened and he staggered down the alley, peeking into the street. It just led into another, darker alley. Chance turned and ran back the other direction, checking the other exit. Another alley.


    Chance pressed his back against the wall, breathing heavily.


    <em>What the hell is going on?</em>


    Hello? Chance called again. Is anyone here? Where am I? If theres a nurse, Id like to request some morphine. Put me under or something!


    There was no response. In his heart, Chance knew why. There was no sky in earth that looked like this.


    Is this the afterlife? Chance muttered. Damn shitty one if it is. Can I get a reroll?


    Still, there was no response. Bobs words rang through Chances head, and he paused.


    You cant be serious, Chance whispered to himself. No way. No goddamn way.


    He held his hands out in front of him and bit his lower lip, concentrating. System!


    Nothing happened.


    Stats! Window! Info! Data!


    His words echoed through the alleyways, vanishing without a trace. Chance lowered his hands. Well, shit. There goes that idea.


    Chance shifted, and something poked him in his side. He reached into the pocket of his new pants, pulling out a small cylindrical bundle of paper. Baffled, Chance unwrapped it with trembling fingers.


    Its contents  a single, stale Cheeto. Chance stared at it, then nced around the alley, half expecting someone with a camera to step out. Nobody did, so he looked back down at the paper, nearly dropping the Cheeto in the process. Written across it inrge, unwieldy handwriting, was a note.


    <em>Have fun. No more 2nd chances. Maybe you can find your folks. Dont die. </em>


    <em>- Bob</em><ol><li><em> S. Eat the Cheeto. Quickly.</em></li></ol>


    <em></em>


    Chance read the note again. He swallowed. If this was a prank, it wasnt a very good one. But, with every passing second, he was bing more and more convinced that this was real. Another breeze howled through the alley and his hair stood on end.


    Something clicked against stone in the alley behind him. Chance spun toward the source of the noise, and a low growl emerged from the darkness. He stepped backward. Uh hello?


    Another click echoed through the alley. A hunched, malnourished ck dog emerged from the darkness. Saliva dripped from engorged fangs that were toorge for its mouth to properly shut, and its eyes burned with red light that left a faint trail through the shadows.


    Chance swallowed and took another step back. The dog growled, pulling its lips farther back. It had several rows of jagged teeth, just like a shark. He cleared his throat and tried to remember what you were supposed to do when running into a ferocious animal.


    Puffing his chest out, Chance bared his own teeth and imitated the creatures snarl. It took another step forward, not dissuaded in the slightest. Then it let out a howl and charged. Chance spun, scrambling as he darted down the alley.


    He skidded around the corner and took off, sprinting as fast as his legs could carry him. The dogs paws pounded against the stone behind him. It mmed into the wall and its ws skittered as it got its footing under it again and bounded after Chance.


    Chance dove through another alley. Every single one looked the same, and he couldnt tell if he was even headed anywhere or if he was just running in circles. The dogs ragged breath was right behind him, and he didnt dare look back at the risk of getting caught.


    Someone help!


    Chance pushed himself to his limits, desperately trying to stay ahead of his pursuer. But, despite his best efforts, he could practically feel the monsters hot breath on his neck. It was gaining on him.


    He darted into another alley, skidding to a halt right in front of a dead end. Cursing, he spun. The dog stood at the entrance of the alley, saliva pouring from its mouth and pooling on the ground.


    This wasnt a prank. He was about to get ripped apart by the worlds ugliest dog. Chances fist tightened around Bobs note. Something crunched and he paused, ncing down at his hand.


    The Cheeto.


    <em>This better be the best damn Cheeto in history.</em>


    Chance threw it into his mouth and bit down. It tasted stale. He swallowed. The dogs lips pulled back, almost as if it wasughing at him. The stupid thing probably <em>was </emughing at him.


    Heat bubbled in Chances stomach. He gasped as it stretched out, reaching through his body like thin molten fingers. It wound through his veins and gathered in his chest, just below his heart.


    Chance gagged, then choked. The dog took a step back, letting out a faint whimper. His hands were glowing. The heat continued to build inside Chance. He dropped to his knees, gasping for air. He couldnt even gather the strength to cry out.


    Bile built up in his throat and he doubled over, spewing a thick ck sludge from his mouth. It poured like a river, coating the ground with foul smelling liquid. It went on for so long that he started to fear that he was going to drown in it before the liquid abruptly stopped and he drew a ragged, gasping breath.


    The dog shifted its weight from paw to paw, eyeing Chance with hunger in its eyes. His throat felt burnt raw, but he raised his hands defensively.


    G-good dog. Go away, or Ill throw up on you.


    The dog growled. It tested the liquid with a paw, then put its weight onto it and started slowly moving toward Chance. He forced himself upright with a groan. It hurt more now than it had when hed gotten hit by the truck.


    Then it burst into a run. The dog charged at him, leaping over the ck sludge in the alley. Chance slipped, falling back and raising his hands defensively with a terrified cry.


    <em>Well, this sucks. Thanks for everything, Bob. Sorry I couldnt make more of it. </em>


    A deep thrum ran through his body, starting from the point right under his heart. It erupted forth and wisps of golden smoke spilled out of his body. The dog hit the ground right in front of Chance, stretching to rip his throat out.


    One of the golden wisps entered it. The monster slipped on the sludge and mmed to the ground, sliding straight past Chance and hitting the wall. A loose brick pitched off the top of the wall andnded straight on the monsters head with a crunch. It didnt move again.


    Chance stared at the monsters corpse. Then he looked down at his hands, a hystericalugh starting to spill out of his chest. He doubled over, howling withughter as tears streamed down his face.


    Several minutes passed before he managed to wrest control of himself again. He slowly rose to his feet, edging over to the dogs body and nudging it with a toe. Its head was caved in  it was dead.


    What the hell? Chance muttered. He looked down at his hands.


    <em>What was that light? Where am I? What is going on?</em>


    He unwrinkled Bobs note with shaking fingers and read through it again. Then he folded it back up, drawing in a deep breath and letting it out slowly. There was no denying it. He wasnt on Earth. This wasnt a prank. And  possibly  he had some sort of magic.


    Chance tried to call on it again, picturing the golden wisps, but nothing happened.


    <em>What a surprise. Im starting to get used to that response. </em>


    Chance wrinkled his nose. The alley was starting to really smell. He wasnt sure what the ck liquid had been, but it was <em>rancid. </em>Shuddering, he stepped over it and walked out of the alley, moving as silently as possible in case there was another monster lurking around.


    <em>Okay. Lets look at the good things. Im alive. For now. Bob gave me a magic Cheeto that did something. I might have magic. </em>


    Chance froze. He pulled the note back out, scanning over it again.


    <em>Maybe I can find my folk  no way. They got hit by a truck. Does Bob mean they could be here too?</em>


    Chance read over it several more times, in case hed somehow missed something. He memorized every word before he carefully folded it back up and returned it to his pocket. As far as he could tell, it was hisst remaining link to Earth.


    He continued through the dark alleys. They all looked the same, but it wasnt like he could get any <em>more </em>lost. After all, getting lost means you knew where you were at one point.


    While Chance walked, he continued to try and call on the strange magic that had arisen when the monster had attacked him. He tried picturing the burning sensation and visualizing the mist again, but to no avail.


    <em>What changed? Was it a one-time thing from the Cheeto? Or was it because I said thank you while visual-</em>


    Molten heat coiled in Chances chest and he gasped. Wisps of gold light emerged from his hands, coiling around his fingers before fading away. He stared at his hand, his heart thundering.


    Chance swallowed.


    <em>Thank you. </em>

 Chapter 3: Accord

    Chapter 3: ord


    Gold light coiled forth again. It danced across his fingertips, twisting to and fro. Chance watched it, transfixed.


    <em>Huh. Thats funny. Its just like dad said. Be thankful for something before it happens, and then it will. Never expected to actually see that working. It almost looks like me, just gold. And not hot.</em>


    The wisps instantly started to flicker, going from vaguely melike to a perfect replica of golden fire. Chance blinked. He pictured the light changing shape again and turning into a small disk. The golden energy moved, shaping into the shape hed formed in his mind before fading away.


    Chance resisted the urge to cheer. That probably would have brought every creepy thing in the alleys down on him, and he didnt know how much use his magical mist was going to help there.


    <em>Ive got magic! No idea what it does, but its magic! Thank you, Bob. Now, if you just show me how Im supposed to get out of this alley, Ill be eternally grateful. </em>


    Chance didnt wait for a reply. He knew he wasnt going to get one. He picked an alley and set back off, hopeful that the exit of this strange maze wasnt too far.


    Seconds turned to minutes and minutes stretched to hours. Chances optimism started to fade as he continued through the endless alleys, no closer to the exit than when he had started. There was absolutely no way to tell where he was. He tried climbing the walls several times, but they were just too tall and he couldnt find purchase on the slick stone.


    His stomach rumbled. He ignored it. Hed gone hungry before. There had to be an exit <em>somewhere. </em>Hed run into it eventually. He had to.


    A click rang against the stone behind him. Chance froze, and it nearly cost him his life. A dark blur flung itself at him and he dove to the ground as an emaciated dog bounded over his head, snapping its jaws shut on thin air.


    Chance thrust his hands forward and called on the golden mist. A small bolt of it leapt from his palm and struck the dog as it spun and charged at him again. Confusion flickered in its eyes for an instant, but it didnt falter in its attack.


    Cursing, Chance scrambled back. His foot hit a loose pebble at just the wrong angle and he went down in a tumble of limbs. His left knee snapped up, catching the dog straight in the chin and knocking it back with a crack.


    Chance rolled over right as it lunged for him again, and he mistakenly drove his elbow into the creatures nose while he was struggling to stand. It pulled back with a shocked whimper. Chance stared back at it, equally surprised.


    Then he hit it with another st of golden mist. The dog cocked its wiry head to the side, as if to ask him what he was thinking. Then it lunged at him again. As its ws pressed into the stone, one slid into a crack and lodged there.


    Yowling, the dog drove itself into the ground face first. It ripped its w free, snarling, and leapt at Chance once more. Chance dove out of the way, mistakenly clipping a wall with his shoulder.


    For the second time that day, a loose brick pitched down and struck the monster square in the head. Bone crunched and it copsed to the ground, dead.


    <em>Once was a coincidence. Theres no way that happens two timespletely by ident. </em>


    Chance edged away from the dog, then scurried down an alley. It wasnt a good idea to stick around in case something bigger and uglier came poking around. More importantly, he was starting to get an inkling of what his magic did.


    <em>It feels a bit disingenuous to call this luck. You cant control luck, that defeats the whole point. But it doesnt seem that far off. And, if its rted to luck</em>


    Chance pictured an arrow pointing him in the direction of civilization or, at least, a way to get out of the alleys. And then  nothing happened. He sighed, then set off once more. He didnt make it more than a few alleys before another dog attacked.


    He fought the beast off like he had thest ones. His stomach rumbled as he stared at its body. Chance shook his head and walked into the darkness. He wasnt that hungry. Yet.


    His resolvested all of three more days. While he managed to find a few more streams of water trickling down the buildings to just barely sate his thirst, Chances hunger only grew with every passing second.


    Eventually, he couldnt think of any other option. The next time he killed one of the small monsters, Chance decided to see what they tasted like. It took him by no surprise that the answer was awful.


    Still, it was food. He tried not to think about the thousands of diseases he was probably exposing himself to as he ate the stringy, foul smelling meat. Somehow, it wasnt the worst tasting food hed ever had. It was a close runner-up, though.


    Chance barely managed to finish a handful of food before his body rebelled against him. He gagged and heaved, but he didnt let himself throw up. There wasnt any other choice, and he wasnt about to starve to death in these alleys.


    Molten heat gathered below his heart and pulsed through his veins for a few minutes after he ate the monster. It slowly faded away and Chance continued on.


    He lost track of how many days he wandered through the darkness or how many of the wretched monsters he fought. It had to have been at least a few weeks, but he couldnt remember how many times night fell. The alleys always seemed to be in the shadow anyway, regardless of what time of day it was.


    Chance slept in short bursts of only an hour or two at a time, awaking at the slightest noise or shift in the wind. Slowly, his heart burned less when he ate the mongrels. That didnt make them taste any better, though.


    And then  in the endless maze of identical roads, Chance saw something different. He immediately wished he didnt.


    Looming in the shadows of the alley he stepped into was thergest monster that hed seen to date. The malnourished ck dog loomed two heads above him, with spindly, warped legs that jutted out like those of a spider.


    A head protruded from its back, lolling over to the side and dribbling drool onto the ground while its main head was currently buried in the bloody corpse of a smaller monster. Chance swallowed and took a step back, but it was toote.


    The huge beasts ears twitched and it pulled back, turning to face him and bearing teeth covered in viscera. A low, hacking growl built in its throat and it took a step toward him, favoring its front legs heavily.


    Some detached portion of Chances mind observed that its back leg looked seriously injured by something, but the rest of him was too focused on the furious eyes boring into his skull.


    He briefly considered running, but he immediately dismissed the notion. Injured or not, he was starving and weak. There would be no escaping this creature. Its hackles pulled back, almost as if it wasughing.


    Blood dribbled from the warped creatures mouth. Chance didnt think it was possible to get uglier than the previous dogs, but this one had proven him wrong.


    Im not done, he whispered, his voice horse from disuse.


    The monster lunged. Gold mist erupted around Chance and he lunged, throwing himself into its leg. The light traveled up the spindly limb, then dispersed. He scrambled back as the monster spun to follow him.


    Nothing happened. For whatever reason, his power wasnt sticking. Chance swallowed. He sent more golden mist flooding toward the monster, but it washed off the creature harmlessly.


    With a bark that Chance was now certain to be augh, it scrambled toward him. ws skittered against stone and its paw caught him as he dove, tearing four thin furrows through his shoulder.


    Chance hit the ground hard, rolling to the side and scrambling to his feet, a wave of nausea washing over him as he rose. The malnourishment was catching up to him. He gritted his teeth.


    I wont let it end like this, you hear me? Bob gave me another shot. Im going to be something this time around.


    The monster cocked its head to the side, as if to say, <em>are you sure about that? </em>


    A gangly paw caught Chance in the chest. His blood sprayed across the ground and he staggered, but he didnt let himself fall. With a burst of strength he didnt think he still had left, he sent his fist sailing out. It crashed into the monsters jaw, snapping it back with a satisfying thud.


    The monster snarled and lunged at him, wrapping its huge maw around his wounded left shoulder. Chance screamed as his bone cracked, but the spark of defiance within him would not be quenched.


    Golden light red around him, flooding into the monsters mouth. He drove his right hand into the dogs eye, digging his thumb into the socket. It popped and the monster screamed, its teeth tearing his body apart as it lurched back.


    Still, Chance refused to fall. His breath came in ragged, furious gasps as the monster matched his gaze with its one remaining eye.


    I. Will. Not. Yield, Chance spat, shoving the encroaching dizziness away. Warm blood dripped down his side, but it didnt hurt nearly as much as it should have. He was pretty sure that was a bad sign. Eat me while I stand. Ill tear you apart on the way to your gullet.


    The monster obliged. It lunged at him again. Chance met its charge standing, just as he had promised. It went to bite his neck, but a foot hit the puddle of blood forming beneath Chance and it lost its bnce, driving its head into his chest.


    He thrust his hand into the monsters other eye, screaming in defiance. Gold mist whipped around him in a furious maelstrom,shing at the monster from every angle. A thrashing paw caught him in the stomach, ripping it open.


    Pain exploded through Chance. Evidently, there was only so much that he could numb. A heavy weight settled over his shoulders, urging him to give in and pass out. He refused.


    I will not give. Im going to be something more. I wont waste this, Chance hissed, the world flickering around him. At his feet, the monster thrashed and struggled to rise. Golden mist poured from its eyes. He wasnt sure if he was hallucinating or not, but it almost looked like it was melting apart.


    Still, it started to rise. Chance drew on everyst scrap of energy he had while the monster was beneath him. He raised a foot and brought it down onto the beasts head with a loud crack.


    Its skull cracked against the ground and the beast went limp. Its eyes flickered, and for an instant, an emotion passed through them that wasnt rage. It was pity.


    And then it was gone, the light blinking out. Blood poured from Chance, and he didnt need a doctor to tell him that his derations were for naught. He forced himself to look up at the sky, twisting and churning with purple energy.


    Im sorry, Bob. Thanks, though. I appreciate he hacked, blood in his lungs blocking his airpipe until he coughed it out. the opportunity.


    Some tiny, defiant part of him kept him standing, even as the world grew cold. Hed meet whatever was waiting for him on his feet. And then, as his vision shrank down to a pinprick, something new appeared within it.


    A man floated upside-down in the air before him, his legs in a yogi position. His tattered purple robes hung around him, and a limp monster was gripped in his pale, sallow hands. The mans eyes shifted, two baleful pale spheres turning to look straight in his direction.


    In spite of the rest of his body, the mans head was twisted one hundred and eighty degrees so it was face-to-face with Chance. The monsters body slipped from his hands, crumpling to the ground.


    He raised a finger and pointed at Chance. The blood sttered across the ground leapt to hismand, surging back into the boys body as his wounds sealed themselves shut.


    You, the man whispered. His words were leathery and ancient, but each exuded pressure that demanded he be heard. I know your Essence.


    Chances mouth was drier than it had ever been before. He took a step back, running his hands over newly healed flesh.


    I  Im alive? Who are you?


    A fascinating creature, the man mused, ignoring himpletely. What strong will. And your Essence  yes. I know that Essence. You are familiar.


    I dont know you. Im sorry, Chance said, looking down at the corpse of the monster at his feet. Hed killed it. Somehow.


    The mans body rotated around his head and he uncrossed his legs, setting feet down on the ground with a slow sigh. You should not be here.


    I  yeah. I dont want to be, Chance said, gathering his resolve. Every fiber of his body screamed for him to turn and run down the alley, but even the slightest chance was better than nothing. Can you help me get out?


    Help, the man said, rolling the word over in his mouth. Your name. What is it?


    Chance.


    Chance. I am Yamish.


    <em>You usually dont give your name to someone youre going to kill. Thank God. </em>


    Its, ah, nice to meet you, Yamish. He had to force every word out from stiff lips. Even though Yamish wasnt showing him any hostility, he couldnt shake the feeling that he was teetering on the edge of a precipice. Coming back from certain death wasnt helping that feeling in the slightest.


    How did you arrive in this ce?


    I  I really dont know. I died, I think. Then I arrived here.


    A new arrival, Yamish mused. But not in the proper ce. You are a curiosity.


    Can you help me get out of here? Chance asked. Maybe to the ce I was supposed to go?


    Yamish wet his lips with a pointed tongue. Yes. We are of the same Essence. I will aid you. An investment.


    Yamish extended a hand, and Chance couldnt help but notice that his fingers were just a little too long. There was an extra joint in each of them. He swallowed, then reached out and took the mans hand. They shook.


    Chance half expected something to happen, but nothing did. Yamish just released him, then extended a hand behind him, pressing it against the stone wall. The alley rippled and melted, forming into a new path. A faint light glimmered at the end of it, beckoning him forward.


    We will meet again, Yamish said. Do not return here of your own volition. Tell nobody of our ord or of my existence. Fail, and you will be no more. Go.


    Chance didnt argue. He ran for the light like the hounds of hell were nipping at his heels. As far as he was concerned, they were. The light grew brighter, forcing him to squint as he ran toward it. And then he burst through, stumbling out onto a wide street. Chance slowed to a stop, his limbs trembling as the strength seemed to evaporate and he flopped to the ground, rolling over to stare up at the sky.


    For the first time, he was able to get a look at the citys skyline without the walls and shadows of the alleys to block it off. Towering skyscrapers rose above him, piercing into the beautiful purple haze. Massive inds floated in the air between them.


    Blurs flew to and fro in the air, somerger than others. After a few moments, Chance realized that some of them were people. He wanted to cry, but he was so dehydrated that his body refused to give up the water.


    He eventually managed to force himself back up. A nce in the direction of the alleys showed nothing. There was just a wall where there had once been an entrance. Chance shuddered. Standing with the help of a wall, he set off in the opposite direction and  with any luck  toward civilization.


    The further Chance wandered down the road, the less aged it became. Lanterns with bobbing motes of orange and yellow light within them cropped up along the walkway, and the stones had less cracks and damage.


    He pushed himself to walk faster, practically able to feel the escape to his torment. A faint ng reached his ears. Chance froze, but several more followed after it, followed by what he suspected to be someone yelling.


    Chance broke into a run toward the noise. He crossed another empty street and sprinted up to an iron gate. Beyond it was a field of packed dirt, sectioned off into small arenas. Dozens of people stood within them, sparring with medieval weapons and armor.


    Magic was interwoven with their movements, and Chance watched in mute awe as one man smashed another to the side with a fist of earth. Then hismon sense took over once more and he shoved the gate open, stumbling inside.


    On the nearest field, A gray-haired man in simple leather stood against a short, heavily armored opponent. Every single part of them was hidden by te mail. Chance couldnt even see a single speck of unprotected skin.


    The armored figure swung a hefty warhammer at the man. Moments before the strike connected, the man moved his sword in a smooth motion, leveraging his bodyweight and shifting in close to his opponent, knocking the hammer to the side.


    He drove his free hand into their helmet palm-first, knocking it back with a loud ng. The armored figure staggered back, dropping the hammer. With a grunt, the gray-haired man whipped his foot out, hooking it behind their legs, and knocked them off their feet. The armored figure iit the ground with a loud crash and a muffled groan of pain.


    Slow. Bad timing. Terrible posture, the man rattled off, sheathing his sword and shaking his head. Also, absolutely no magic usage. What are you doing? Are you trying to lose?


    You dont use Essence, the man snapped, pulling the helmet off to reveal a head of curly brown hair. He looked young  only a little older than Chance. It only seemed fair to do the same, Gibson.


    Fair fighting is for dead men, the gray-haired man who, Chance presumed was Gibson, replied. And you are not nearly good enough to avoid using your Essence when fighting me. I dont use my Essence because, if I did, you would get nothing at all from a sparring session. Idiot.


    Gibson paused, catching sight of Chance staring at him, his eyes wide and mouth ck as he tried to form words with his dry lips.


    What are you doing? Gibson asked.


    Help, Chance rasped. Water. Food. Please.


    Then he copsed, everyst ounce of his energy spent. The world spun around him, and everything went ck.

 Chapter 4: Gibson

    Chapter 4: Gibson


    Chance awoke to something soft. He shifted, feeling theforting embrace of a nket wrapped around him. It had been a long time since hed been in a bed thisfortable. He wearily opened his eyes and came face to face with Gibson.


    He was lying in a small stone room, and the grizzled man sat directly in front of his bed, leaning over his face. Chance yelped, sitting up so fast that he drove his forehead into the older mans. It was like hitting a brick wall. He flopped back to the bed, clutching his head and groaning.


    Shit. What are you doing? Gibson snarled.


    Sorry, Chance groaned, moving his hands. Then he froze. He was out of the alleys. Im free! Im actually free!


    He flopped back into the bed, relief reced by a hystericalugh. Confusion and concern warred on Gibsons face.


    What in the world are you on about, boy? Gibson snarled. You cant stumble into a Shikari training field and just demand food and water like a dying man before copsing.


    I  where am I?


    I just told you. A Shikari training field, Gibson said irritably. He shoved a ss of water into Chances hands. He drained it greedily, not stopping for air until it was finished.


    No. Where <em>am </em>I? Theres magic and monster dogs and infinite alleyways that never end, Chance rambled.


    Gibsons eyes narrowed. Youre a new arrival?


    I dont know what that means.


    You died, Gibson said. And someone sent you here. Correct?


    I  yeah. Yeah. Does this happen a lot?


    More than it should, Gibson muttered. What world are you from, boy?


    Earth.


    Gibsons expression darkened. Of course. Why are you wandering around like a lost idiot, then? Did Terrence kick you out?


    Terrence? Chance asked, licking his lips and ncing around. Gibson handed him another ss of water, and he drained it.


    You know the man who greeted you?


    Nobody greeted me, Chance said.


    <em>Not counting Yamish, but I really hope that isnt who they normally have greet anyone.</em>


    Unless you meant the dog. Sorry about that if you did. He tried to kill me.


    What are you going on about? Gibson asked, baffled. You didnt kill Terrence. I talked with the old bastard this morning.


    No, he didnt look very old. It was a dog. How are you supposed to know how old a dog is? It was a little busy trying to kill me.


    Terrence isnt a dog.


    Oh. Then Im probably fine, Chance said. Because I killed a dog. A lot of them, actually. God. Im going to hell for that. They werent really dogs, if you think about it. No dog looks like that. Dogs like pets, not ripping peoples throats out.


    Are you talking about a Soothound? Gibsons eyes narrowed. What were you doing fighting them?


    Mister, I have absolutely no idea whats going on, Chance said. I woke up in an alleyway and stumbled around in them for ages.


    Gibson stared at Chance. What? You didnt arrive in the arrival room?


    Is it an alley?


    No.


    Then I didnt. Can you please tell me whats going on?


    I  Im not sure, Gibson said, off guard for the first time since Chance had seen him. All new arrivals appear in the same spot. Thats how this works.


    At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I dont know what <em>this </em>is.


    Whats a broken  never mind, Gibson said, shaking his head. Probably some damn Earth term. I suppose Ill have to do Terrences job for him.


    Who is Terrence?


    Just shut up for a little while, Gibson growled. Listen up. You died. You showed up here, on Centurion. Thats the name of this world. The city you are currently in is called Gleam. Its one of the great Schr-Cities and is exceedingly difficult to get into. Congrattions on your admission.


    Chance blinked heavily. Can I talk now?


    Yes.


    Why do you have an endlessbyrinth of alleyways inside your city?


    You mentioned those before, Gibson said, staring closely at Chance. Did you overhear someone talking about them?


    No. Why would I make this up? I showed up in them.


    And you survived? As a new arrival? Do you realize how improbable that sounds? Gibson asked. How long were you in them? You must have arrived in the edge, so a day or two?


    Chance opened his mouth to answer, then paused. Something about the way Gibson spoke gave him pause.


    I guess it was something like that, Chance said. It was hard to keep track. I managed to kill one of the boney dog things and then ran until I stumbled out.


    Gibson shook his head and leaned back. Youre lucky to be alive. You were in the outskirts of the Old City. Its twisted by magic and an incredibly dangerous for even the most experienced Shikari.


    Youve said that word a few times. Whats a Shikari? Chance asked, suddenly d hed hidden how long hed wandered around in the alleys.


    Theyre hunters that kill monsters, Gibson replied absentmindedly. They kill things like the Soothounds you mentioned and keep Gleam safe.


    Oh, Chance said intelligently. He and Gibson sat in silence for several minutes.


    Uh what now? Chance asked. Now that hed escaped the alley, he had absolutely no idea where to go. Hed been pretty focused on not dying.


    I was just wondering that myself. If you really are a new arrival, it means you know nothing about Gleam, right?


    Chance nodded.


    I see. Ill be honest, I cant be bothered to show you around everything, and Terrence is too busy to waste time on someone who isnt confirmed to be a new arrival. You got three options. First, walk out of here and do what you want. Second, join the Academy. Third, be a Shikari.


    Join the Academy? Chance asked, his interest caught.


    Its one of the greatest institutes of learning in Centurion, Gibson said with a nod. Its five thousand gold a year.


    Chance cleared his throat. Right. And how much is that in, say, hamburgers?


    Gibson stared at him.


    Okay, maybe no hamburgers here, Chance muttered. How many meals is five thousand gold?


    An average meal costs around one silver. There are ten silver in a gold.


    Chance did the math in his head and his face went pale. He cleared his throat. Okay, I might not have quite that much gold. Maybeter. Does the first option just mean Im homeless again?


    It means youre out of my hair, Gibson replied.


    <em>Thats a yes. </em>


    Then I guess Id like to be a Shikari, Chance said. They help people, right?


    Gibsons face softened slightly. Yes. Theyre the barrier that keeps the people of Gleam safe from the demons that lurk within and outside of it. It is a noble profession, and many who wish to study at the Academy start as a Shikari for experience and money.


    Then I think thats the way to go, Chance decided.


    <em>Theres no point just sitting around. Im not going to be nothing this time. This is the opportunity Bob told me about, and Im going to wring it for everything I can. This time, Im going to be someone of note.</em>


    I thought you might say that, Gibson said with a sigh, all traces of kindness in his face gone. Earthlings. Always the same. Get up, then. I took care of the paperwork already.


    Chance slipped out of bed and carefully rose to his feet. They held him well enough, and he had to hurry to catch up with Gibson, who was already heading out of the room. The two walked out, back into the training fields.


    Where are we going? Chance asked.


    Shikari Lane, Gibson replied curtly. Chance took the hint and fell silent as they walked an iron gate  a different one from the gate hed entered the field through.


    Chance took the opportunity to marvel at the city around them. Towering buildings rose up in the near distance, and a rider on a huge bird asionally flew overhead. shes of magic danced near the people training around them, shing with showers of brilliant sparks.


    Do you have any experience?


    Huh? With what? Chance asked, tearing his gaze away from a pair of sparring kids that couldnt have been much older than him.


    Fighting.


    Ive gotten into a brawl or two, but I dont think that would really count as knowing how to fight, Chance replied with an awkward chuckle. So, no. I guess. Not unless you count the dogs.


    Youll need a more experienced team member, then, Gibson said with a sigh. They came up to a tall, iron gate. The ends were pointed like leaves and looked sharp enough to cut. On the other end was arge street dotted with houses.


    They looked about as normal as they could get. While there was some variation between them, most of the houses were either one or two stories and painted in muted colors. Each of them had a metal te on their door with an inscription on it.


    Gibson pushed the gate open and walked out onto the street, tapping his chin. Chance struggled to keep up with the older mans gait. They strode down the street, then came to an abrupt stop in front of one of the two-story houses.


    Could you tell me whats going on? Chance asked carefully.


    Im trying to determine what team to put you with.


    Team?


    Youre going to be training and fighting, boy. Do you think you can do that on your own? Can you be powerful without aid? With no support from anyone but your own, gods given talent?


    Chance stepped back as Gibsons voice rose with every sentence. They stared at each other for a second. Then Gibson gritted his teeth and turned away. Never mind. Yes, you need a team. Every recruit is put into a team of three until they be Knight ranked.


    Why thr


    Because if one of you gets hurt, the other two can carry them to safety, Gibson said, cutting Chance off before he could even finish his question. And, before you ask, if two of you get injured  you screwed up. Dont.


    Chance opened his mouth.


    No more questions right now. Im the Head Trainer, not your personal tutor, Gibson said. Your team will have someone assigned to it thats there specifically for all your questions. Presumably someone who did something dumb enough to get demoted into this job.


    Chance wisely chose to shut his mouth. His question about teams had really struck a nerve with Gibson for some reason, and he resolved to try to figure out why so he could avoid mistakenly pressing it in the future.


    This one will do, Gibson said, clicking his tongue. Memorize this house. Itll be where youre staying for the foreseeable future.


    Okay. Are the rest of my team here already?


    No clue. Gibson walked up to the house with Chase at his heels and knocked on the door. Hopefully. If they arent, youre exining this yourself. Im not standing around all day.

 Chapter 5: A splendid meeting

    Chapter 5: A splendid meeting


    Mercifully, the door swung open to reveal an old man. His face strongly resembled a prune that had been left out in the sun for too long, and he leaned heavily on a wizened staff. A sunhat sat askew on his head and his clothes were too long, causing the sleeves to dangle and the pants to bunch underneath his feet.


    Gibson? the old man asked. His voice was surprisingly hearty for the age he looked.


    Ive brought a member for your team, Gibson said, pushing Chance forward. New arrival. He knows absolutely nothing.


    Earth?


    Earth, Gibson confirmed.


    Are you really sure this is a good idea? I was under the impression you had made a deal with


    The terms changed. We werent expecting someone this inexperienced to join up. I trust you can deal with it. Ill arrange for another member to join as well so you can have a full team. Weve always got transfer requestsing in.


    Very well, the old man said, but Gibson hadnt even waited around to hear his answer. He was already walking back down the street toward the training yards. Chance gave the man a weak smile.


    Ah, hello. It sounds like Im inconveniencing you. Im sorry.


    Chance resolved to keep the exact details of his arrival secret. Gibsons reaction to it had felt significant, and he didnt want to give anything else away  not until he knew more about the world hed arrived in. He couldnt afford to take any chances.


    Oh, no. Not at all. Not me, the old man said with a kindly grin. My name is Pete.


    Its nice to meet you. Im Chance. From Earth, as Gibson already said.


    Well, lets head inside, Pete said, stepping back through the doorway into the house. Chance trailed him inside, looking around in wonder. The main room was spacious, with arge circr dining table in the center.


    To the right was a neat kitchen, while an open doorway to their left led into amon room with soft couches and warm daylight spilling into it through a wide window. A stairwell at the back of the room wound upward to the second floor.


    Ill start by showing you around, Pete said. Youve already seen the kitchen and the dining room. To the left is the living room. The bathroom is in there.


    He started up the stairs. Chance moved to help him, but Pete bounded up them before he could even offer. He hurried after the older man, half worried hed get outpaced by someone ten times his age.


    Up here are the living quarters, Pete said once Chance reached the top, gesturing grandiosely down a hallway that ended in a square window that overlooked the street. There were two doors on each side of the hall. The closest two rooms are taken, but you can take either the back left or back right one.


    Chance swallowed. It had been so long since hedst had a room he could actually call his own. Pete spotted the look on his face and chuckled.


    I recognize those eyes. Dont worry, nobody will take this from you. But, before you go picking out a room,e with me. There are a few things I should let you know early on.


    They headed back downstairs and into the living room. Pete sat down in arge, cushioned rocking chair and Chance took the couch across from him. The material covering it wasnt something hed ever felt. It felt like a cross between leather and some fuzzy caterpir, but it was quitefortable.


    I need to make sure you understand what youre signing up for, Pete said, setting his staff to the side and intecing his fingers as he leaned back in the chair. Shikari get paid well, but you have to defend the city as well. Do you know what that really means?


    Something about defending Gleam from monsters, Chance replied. That seems kind of strange to think about, though.


    It wont feel real until youre standing there and a bloodthirsty Soothound is staring you down, wanting nothing more than to rip your throat out and find out what your innards taste like, Pete said, his smile fading. I dont know what youve been told, but this is not a safe job. Gleam is a beautiful city, and there are sacrifices made for all great things. We are that sacrifice.


    Chances hair stood on end as he recalled the monsters that had hounded him through the alleys. Pete caught the expression on his face and misread it.


    You are by no means guaranteed to die. If you are wise and careful, youre quite likely to survive, and youll grow from it. When you get stronger, youll be able to travel between the great cities without fear. Normal citizens cant do that. There are many benefits to this path, but there are also drawbacks.


    Just like everything. That makes sense. But I can make a lot of money doing this, and I get to help people, right? Getting strong means I can protect myself as well. There arent many other choices.


    There are other options, but if you need arge quantity of money, then there arent many.


    Then this is what Ill do, Chance said firmly. My parents might be somewhere in this world too. I want to find them.


    A noble cause. Pete heaved a sigh, but he gave Chance a slight grin. I didnt expect to convince you not to take this path up. I just want to make sure you understand that you are putting yourself at risk. There are other, safer ways to live in Gleam.


    Not interested, Chance said. Theres no point to life if I dont live it the way I want to, and this is what I want.


    Well said. In that case, allow me to be the first to wee you to team Whiteheart. Im the resident instructor for this house, and I will do everything I can to ensure youre properly equipped for a job like this. Youll be staying with us until you reach the Knight rank, which is three above what you currently are now. Well get around to thatter.


    Its a pleasure to meet you, Chance said, extending his hand. Pete gripped it with surprising strength.


    Likewise, Pete replied. Im sorry your first experience with us was with Gibson. The good captain has gone through some dark times. Try to be understanding. Ites with the line of duty, and any of us could find ourselves in his position.


    Did something happen with his team? Chance asked. When I asked about mine, he got really angry. Maybe something to do with someone from Earth?


    Petes eyebrows crept upward and he leaned forward. Youre perceptive. Yes. This isnt my story to share, so I will not spread it, but Gibson has old grudges caused by a man that came from Earth. I would not rmend pressing. If he wants you to know, he will tell you.


    I understand.


    Good, Pete said, rxing. Dont worry about that for now. Now that Ive warned you about the danger involved with being a Shikari, I can tell you about all the benefits it provides. Like I mentioned, this is a very lucrative career, and youll form a lifelong bond with your team. Everyone does  go through enough life and death situations with them and you wont have a choice.


    Thats not all that reassuring, Chance said with a shortugh. But I get what youre saying. Ive always wanted to have a close friend like that.


    Right. Yes. Im sure you will. He didnt sound very confident. Before Chance could ask what Pete was getting at, the old man pressed on. Youll receive a stipend of one gold a week. You can use it how you see fit, but I rmend getting gear before anything else. In addition


    There was a loud bang from above them. Pete stopped midsentence as footfalls descended the stairs. Chance twisted, his eyes going wide as a young woman walked down from the second floor.


    She was around Chances age, with sunkissed, almost golden skin and long, curly hair that bounced around her head with every step. She raised a hand in greeting as she spotted Pete, then froze as her eyesnded on Chance.


    Ah, Be. Youve got good timing, Pete said. This is Chance.


    No, Be said tly.


    I havent even finished.


    I thought we had this allid out, Be snapped, stalking down the stairs and striding up to the old man. Pete, I told you the only way I was doing this would be if it was on my own. No team. That was the deal. We agreed!


    I know, Pete said apologetically. Gibson changed it.


    I dont give a damn what Gibson wants! Be said, her voice raising. Have I been underperforming? Ive hit the quotas without a problem! What did I do wrong?


    Nothing, but Chance needed a team and Gibson decided this was the proper one for him. Hes from Earth and has no experience with any of this.


    Bes eyes narrowed in anger, and it struck Chance that Pete had chosen the absolute wrong thing to say. Hespletely new? Are you both insane?


    It was Gibsons decision. All we can do is follow it. Im sorry, Pete said. But Ive been talking with Chance, and hes a good kid. Im sure well have him up to speed


    Absolutely not, Be hissed, thrusting a finger into Petes chest. Dont even think about it. Agh! I had one forsaken request. One! How was that so hard to do? Fix this! Move the Earthling to a different house.


    I cant do that. Gibson makes the rules, and you know how he is about these things. The only reason you were able to work on your own this long is because he agreed to it in the first ce.


    Be gritted her teeth. She turned her gaze on Chance, her eyes cold. Chance cleared his throat, but she didnt even give him a chance to say anything. She just turned around and strode off, stomping back up the stairs. Both Chance and Pete winced as they heard a door m shut.


    Well, that went well, Pete said.


    I get the feeling Im not wee, Chance muttered, staring at the stairwell.


    Im sorry. Pete rubbed his forehead and let out a weary sigh, looking his age for the first time since Chance had met him. Be  well, shes a finess. Shes not truly that bad, but she was very insistent on working alone. Im afraid your arrival has upset the status quo. Dont apologize for that, though. It isnt your fault, and shell eventuallye around.


    Im not so sure about that. Ive seen angry before. That looked like she hated me.


    Not you. More like the idea of you.


    Thanks, Chance said dryly.


    Peteughed. Anytime. Well, there will be another member arriving shortly if Gibson sent you here, so dont worry. Once youve all been on a few jobs, things will smooth out. Until then, please feel free to use anything in this house. All the ingredients in the kitchen are for you to use, and Ill pay to restock them. If you ever need anything, just let me know and Ill add it into our budget.


    Thank you, Chance said, pushing his meeting with Be into the back of his mind. She wasnt going to ruin this for him. He had a house! And a room!


    Off with you, then, Pete said. Im sure you want to go im a room. Im sure you have a lot of questions, but hold off on them for a little. Time will help you get used to Centurion, and then youll be able to think more rationally.

 Interlude 1

    Interlude 1


    Gibson strode down an empty street toward Terrences office, his brow furrowed. A new arrival had appeared in the wrong location. That had never happened before. And, worse, the boy was from Earth. Earthlings could not be trusted.


    If it were up to him, hed have the boy dealt with before whatever he was somehow wrapped up in spilled out into the rest of Gleam. Unfortunately, that wasnt up to him. And, thus, he sought Terrence.


    Any possible threat to Gleam had to be dealt with as soon as possible. Gibson was so wrapped up in his thoughts that he didnt notice the long, spindly hand that emerged from an alley as he passed it.


    It grabbed the Head Trainer by the shoulder and yanked him into the darkness before he could even utter a word.


    Gibson acquitted himself well, a de flying from its sheath at his side with a clean ring as soon as he stumbled into the alley. His eyes fell on the man floating upside-down across from him and he froze.


    The aura pouring off the man was incredible. Hed stood in the presence of some of the strongest cultivators in all of Gleam, and this man eclipsed all of thembined. Gibson did what any wise man would have done in the presence of something greater than them by such a degree.


    He fell to his knees.


    Who are you? Gibson asked, staring at the ground. He and the floating man both knew that a single thought would be all that was needed to wipe his existence from the city, and there was nothing that anyone else could have done about it.


    A passing thought, the floating man replied. And you are about to inconvenience me.


    Im sorry, Gibson stammered. I dont understand.


    The boy. You are about to inconvenience him. I cannot have that.


    Gibson swallowed. Hed known that Chance was trouble. A tiny part of him wished hed just offed the kid as soon as he found out he was a new arrival that hadnt shown up in the right spot, but that might have meant he would have been lying dead in the alley instead of having this conversation.


    I was just going to report his arrival, Gibson stammered. Gleam wees all


    I care not for your excuses for training fodder, the floating man said, cutting him off. The boy will be forgotten. He is nothing to you. You will give him a capable team  there should be good capable applicants looking for a team. Choose one immediately. Then ensure you do not inconvenience him further. He is <em>mine</em>.


    Gibson swallowed. Before he could nod his understanding, the man extended a spindly hand. Within it, golden mist gathered, forming into an image of a woman. Gibsons eyes widened.


    What do you want with my wife?


    Karma connects us all. You may grow tempted by others with what you perceive to be great power in the future, if the boy survives his growth. Remember this moment, Shikari. The worst they can do is kill you.


    The mans hand clenched over the golden mist, dismissing it. Then he was gone. Gibson sat there for several minutes. He slowly rose to his feet and staggered out of the alley.


    Gibson stared up at the sky for a few moments, then turned on his heel and set off in the way he hade. What was the worst that one Earthling could do? Gleam could stuff itself. His job wasnt more important than his family.

 Chapter 6: Nice to meet Yeo

    Chapter 6: Nice to meet Yeo


    It probably wasnt a good idea to tell Pete that hed been on Centurion for weeks already, and Chance really didnt need much convincing to check out his lodgings. He darted up the stairs, shooting past the first two doors. He looked between the back two, but they seemed to be the same, so he chose the one on the right and twisted the handle.


    The room was in, like hed expected. There was a single window above a bed fitted with in white sheets. A desk and chair sat beside it, across from a wooden dresser. Chance stepped inside, marveling at all of it.


    Wow, he breathed, sitting down on the bed. Heid back, a grin crossing his face as he let himself rx. Then he jumped back upright and checked inside every drawer of the dresser. They were empty, as was the single drawer in his desk.


    He cheerfully went around the fairly small room, investigating every nook and cranny. It was a littlerger than his room had been when his parents were still alive, but itpletelycked personality.


    Once he got enough money, Chance promised himself that hed go about fixing that particr problem. Satisfied, he flopped back into bed. <em>His</em> bed. The corners of his mouth hurt a little from smiling so much, but he couldnt help himself.


    Chance raised a hand, calling the golden wisps of energy forth. They twisted beneath his fingers, tingling as they brushed across his skin. He lowered his hand, letting it rest against his chest as a content smile passed over his lips.


    A loud bang echoed through the house. Chance bolted to his feet and nearly tripped over the edge of the bed as he tried to still his thumping heart. He still hadntpletely gotten over how jumpy he was from the alleyways.


    <em>Is that how they always open the damn doors here? Hasnt anyone ever heard of closing something quietly?</em>


    Chance cracked his door open and poked his head out just in time to see Be doing the exact same thing from her own room. She was facing the stairwell, but she spun to look in his direction even though he was fairly sure he hadnt made any noise. Her face darkened and she pulled back into the room, closing the door.


    <em>At least she didnt m it. </em>


    Chance stepped into the hall. Voices echoed up from the first floor. One of the voices was Pete, but he didnt recognize the other. He made his way down the stairs and into the living room.


    A boy sat across from Pete, bedecked in leather armor. A small sickle and chain hung from his side, and his long ck hair hung in a ponytail past his shoulders. Pete had imed his plush chair and was in the exact same position that hed sat in when talking to Chance. Evidently, he had the whole greeting-thing worked out.


    Ah, Chance, Pete said, giving him a warm smile. I hope youve had a chance to rx.


    Its been like five minutes, Chance said. But everything is wonderful. Thank you.


    Pete guffawed. Wonderful? Its been a while since anyone called this house that. Thank you very much. I do my best, even with our limited budget.


    Is this one of my teammates? the boy asked, loungingzily on the couch and ncing in Chances direction. He exuded confidence and had an arrogant air about him. His eyes were a faint shade of purple that Chance had never seen before.


    It is. Chance, this is Yeo, Pete said. Yeo, this is chance.


    Chances back stiffened. Hed been hoping his other teammate would be kind, but the boy across from him seemed like the type of person that thought they were better than everyone else.


    Hes from Earth, Pete finished. He knows nothing about Centurion, so please help him get up to speed.


    Yeos half-lidded eyes shot open and he leapt to his feet, darting over to stand nose-to-nose with Chance.


    No way. Really?


    Chance took a step backward. Uh, yeah.


    Thats so cool! Yeo eximed. Ive always wanted to meet an Earthling! Do you really fly around in giant metal birds? Have you yed football? What about the inte? Did you use the inte? What kind of truck hit you? Was it big?


    The questions came out like a verbal barrage. With every step Chance took back, Yeo took one forward until they were practically against the wall. Chance cleared his throat and slipped around Yeo, feeling the slight sting of shame. Hedpletely judged him on his appearance, and it didnt look like hed been right in the slightest.


    Slow down a little, Yeo, Pete admonished. Chance only just arrived, so hes probably feeling very overwhelmed.


    Yeos face reddened and he cleared his throat. Im sorry. My mother always said I took my manners out to the barn and shot them. My name is Yeo.


    He extended a hand and Chance took it.


    No harm done, Chance replied. And I dont mind. The giant birds are nes, and we did, although its been a while since I was in one. Ive never yed football, but I used to love the inte. There were a lot of cool things on it. As for the truck  it was a semitruck. How do you know all this about Earth?


    Yeo straightened up and thrust a proud thumb into his chest. My dads from Earth too! He told me all about it. Ive always wanted to visit, but the path only goes one way. No way to get back. Will you tell me about it?


    Uh, sure, Chance said, starting to rx. Yeo was like a Earth-weaboo. He suppressed augh at that thought. I never really registered that other people from Earth might have told you about it. Thats weird.


    There are so many things I want to ask you, Yeo said eagerly. Oh, I know! We can trade questions. Thats fair, right? You ask something about Centurion, then I get something about Earth.


    That works for me, Chance said with a grin. Maybe we should get you moved in first or something, though?


    Already did, Yeo said with a thumbs-up. Im speedy.


    Showing up with nothing but the clothes on your back does not make you fast, Pete said as he got out of his chair, grabbing his staff and walking over to the kitchen. It just means you didnt have anything to move in.


    Yeo rolled his eyes. Whatever you say, gramps.


    Pete sighed, and Yeo tugged at Chances sleeve.


    Come on. Lets get our third teammate in on this too. I bet theyre curious as well.


    Chance cleared his throat. That might not be a good idea. I dont think she likes me much.


    What? Thats dumb. Did you do something to her?


    Well, no. I think its more the idea of me than anything else.


    She doesnt like Earthlings?


    I dont think she likes <em>people</em>.


    Nonsense. Everyone can be won over, especially with my charming personality. He shed Chance a wide grin, then dragged him up the stairs. Then, to Chances horror, he strode straight up to Bes door and rapped on it.


    There was no response.


    She must be busy, Chance said.


    Yeo squatted, bringing his eye down to the keyhole and squinting through it. Nah. I see her. Shes just staring at the door.


    The door opened and Be pierced them with a cold stare. Go away.


    Despite himself, Chance peeked into her room. Shed been here longer than him, so he figured shed probably had time to decorate it. To his surprise, it waspletely barren. It looked just like his.


    We arent going anywhere. Youre our team member, and we need to get to know each other, Yeo said, crossing his arms. Are you going to make me drag you out?


    You couldnt make me do anything, Be replied. And mind your own business. Im not interested in getting to know either of you. Go do what you want, but keep me out of it.


    Hmph. Then well just hold our meeting in your room, Yeo said, starting forward. Be snapped her fingers and a tendril of dark water shot out from behind her, pressing into Yeos chest and stopping him in his tracks.


    No.


    She mmed the door in their faces.


    You cant ignore us forever! Yeo threw his hands up. And Chance, what was that? You didnt help me at all!


    I dont think she wants to talk with us, Chance replied. If thats the case, we dont have any right to force her to.


    Yeo scrunched his nose. Then he sighed and shrugged. I guess thats true. Her loss. We dont need her to have fun. Come on, lets get to that game.


    He waltzed over to Chances room and opened the door, ncing around before darting inside. There wasnt even an ounce of hesitation, even though it wasnt his room. Chance threw onest nce at Bes door, then followed his new teammate in.


    Yeo had imed the chair at the desk, so Chance sat down on his bed.


    Okay, I get to go first, Yeo said, tapping his chin in thought. Oh, Ive got one. Whats the coolest thing on the inte? Its been years since my dad was on Earth, so I bet its changed a lot.


    It looked like Yeo hadpletely forgotten his annoyance with Be and had returned to the over-chipper attitude that Chance was starting to fear was his normal form.


    Thats kind of subjective I think, Chance said. Its been a while since I used the inte, but I think video games are probably up there. I was a big fan of the ones where you could y with a bunch of people and pretend to be a wizard or a warrior.


    Oh, an MMO? My dad loved those!


    Chance stared at Yeo. The boy looked like had been pulled straight out of an MMO. He wasnt sure hed ever get used to people in what was essentially a magical world talking about things from Earth like they were justmon knowledge. It just wasnt right.

 Chapter 7: Future plans

    Chapter 7: Future ns


    Okay, my turn, Chance said, shaking his head to clear it. Can you actually use that weapon?


    Oh, my kusarigama? Yeo asked, raising the curved de. Yeah. Ive been training with it for years. I always knew I wanted to be a Shikari, so my dad got me started from a young age. I go ham with this thing. Id show you, but were inside a room. This doesnt work too well in enclosed spaces, and Id probably end up cutting something on ident.


    Chance barely kept his eye from twitching at the lingo.


    Your dad taught you Earth lingo?


    My mom made him! Shes a huge fan of Earth as well, Yeo said with augh.


    I couldnt imagine, Chance said with a grin of his own. Thats awesome, though. Ive never actually used a weapon.


    Thats crazy. You were like a civilian on Earth, then?


    Yeah. Most people were.


    So there really arent monsters or anything? Yeo leaned forward, his face turning serious. There are just people?


    Well, there are animals and the like, but monsters are just things in fantasy stories, Chance replied.


    Wow. My dad told me that too, but its hard to believe, Yeo said, leaning back and shaking his head. So theres really no magic or anything?


    None, Chance confirmed. Well, not in the same way that you guys have it.


    I cant imagine living like that. Yeo let out a disbelieving whistle. That seems so boring.


    Magic really is incredible, Chance agreed. I dont even know what mine does, but I dont know what Id do without it. Wait  youve got it too?


    Almost everyone does. When you arrived, you were given a core, right? I heard that Earthlings dont have them.


    Chance frowned. He hadnt been given anything as far as he was aware, but he had eaten Bobs Cheeto. Something told him that wasnt what Yeo was referring to, though.


    Yeah, Chance lied. Is that how you get magic?


    Its more like its how you ess it, Yeo replied. By the way, most people dont call it magic. We call it Essence, and its the energy of the universe. The act of trying to understand it is called cultivation. Its incredible. You wont believe what people can do until you see it for yourself. I once saw a Shikari literally move a mountain to crush a horde of monsters.


    Holy shit, Chance said, his eyes going wide. So everyone gets it? Can you do the same stuff as I can, then? And I can also move mountains and stuff?


    Probably not, Yeo said. He tapped the sickle and chain at his side. Its impossible to actually try to understand Essence as a whole, so you focus on a part of it. Im pursuing the Essence of Metal. It helps me use my kusarigama, among other things. It depends on what you really resonate with. You could hypothetically try to follow the Essence that I am, but it might not be the one that really fits you, you know? If it doesnt fit you, then you wont be able to go as far along the path as you could have otherwise.


    I see, Chance said slowly. So the more I understand my this Essence Im following, the stronger I get?


    Among other things. Yeo nodded. People that are far along in their pursuit of Essence also live far longer, slow or stop aging, and be resistant to most forms of disease.


    Wait. You can be immortal?


    Pretty much, Yeo replied. Thats really difficult, though. Ive never met anyone that got that far along their path, but I know its possible.


    Chance rocked back, trying toe to terms with Yeos words.


    <em>Doesnt that mean you can basically be a god once you understand enough of the Essence youre cultivating?</em>


    Its a lot, huh? Yeo asked with a grin. My dad told me it nearly gave him a heart attack when he learned about it. Ive always wanted to tell someone to see that reaction myself. Theres a whole bunch more too, but I think I should probably save it. It isnt as important.


    Yeah, Chance said with a weak nod. That might be smart. But what if you dont know what your Essence path is?


    Depends, Yeo said. Some people cultivate their body rather than trying to learn a greater truth  thats prettymon. A lot of people do at least a little body cultivation, but some focus on itpletely. But, if youre cultivating a concept  thats seeking Essence. You might not know the exact name of what youre following, but its still there. You know, you should have learned all of this in your orientation.


    Orientation?


    You know, when the guy manning the tower you showed up in told you about Gleam and everything? Yeo said, raising an eyebrow. Every new arrival shows up in a designated spot so they can be properly introduced. Thats just how it has been.


    Chance cleared his throat. Ah. I kind of slept through that. I was pretty exhausted from arriving here and all that.


    Yeo burst intoughter. Thats fine. From what I know, I just covered everything important anyway. Youll just have to practice cultivating and learn techniques. Thats the main thing.


    Chance frowned, but at least Yeo wasnt pressing the issue. Hed have to be more careful with admitting how little he knew in the future  at least, until he figured out how big of a deal it was to show up anywhere other than the arrival spots.


    <em>How does someone train themselves with luck? Does that mean this isnt the right Essence for me? Or have I managed topletely misunderstand what it is?</em>


    You dont know yours yet, huh? Yeo asked. Dont fret too much. Well figure it out. Whats it look like?


    Chance pulled the golden mist to his fingertips. Yeo cocked an eyebrow.


    Huh. Whats it do?


    Uh so far, drop bricks on things, Chance replied. I think its got to do with luck?


    The Essence of Luck? Yeo asked. That weird. I suppose thats possible. There are countless branches of cultivation. Ive just never heard of someone trying to cultivate luck.


    Yeah, Chance said with a weak chuckle. I just hope


    He trailed off. Yeo didnt need to hear his life story.


    What? Yeo asked. Something about Earth? You miss home?


    No, Chance admitted, surprised to realize it waspletely true. Even with the dogs trying to kill him and the weeks of stumbling through the alleys, Bob had been right. Hed do it again for this opportunity. Its my parents. Theres a possibility theyre also somewhere in this world. I just cant imagine finding people will be cheap.


    Yeo studied Chance for a moment, then gave him a thumbs up. He gave a lot of those, apparently. Dont worry! Well make that money no problem. Im going topete to be the best Shikari on the board, so you better believe well be rich.


    Theres a leaderboard? Chance asked, grateful for a chance to change the subject.


    Oh, yeah. Its a big deal. The best Shikari get more money, ess to better jobs, and a whole bunch of unique opportunities, Yeo said. He leaned back in the chair, bncing it on the two back legs. Not to mention fame. A whole lot of it.


    So, what are you after?


    A moment passed before he answered.


    I want to be famous! Yeo eximed, leaping to his feet and thrusting his chest out. It sounds so fun. There would be so many cool things Id be able to take part of. Wouldnt that be incredible?


    Never thought about it, Chance admitted. But Id imagine thepetition would be pretty fierce. How are rankings on the board set?


    There are tiers and numbers, Yeo said, the wind falling out of his sails. He sat back down with a harrumph. You have to test to get into the next tier, but you cant take a test until youve got a team.


    Were the lowest tier, then? Chance guessed.


    Nah. We arent even ranked yet, Yeo replied, scrunching his nose. And we dont have a number either. Those are just for the leaderboard, and you only get them after participating in a tournament of other people in your tier.


    Chancemitted everything Yeo had said to memory. If he needed a lot of money, a good way might be to move up on the rankings in the Shikari as well.


    Okay, Im in, Chance said, rubbing his hands together. Ill do everything I can to help you get up the ranks while were still on a team together. No promises for after, though. Ive got a lot I want to aplish.


    Yeah. Just until were Knights, Yeo agreed, running his fingers along the hilt of his kusarigama. Ive got a lot to do too. Im just going to have fun before things get too busy, you know?


    From what it sounds like, itll be a while until were Knights, so weve got a lot of time to make money, Chance said.


    Yes! Thats the attitude we need, Yeo crowed. He lost his bnce, tipping back in the chair. The boy vaulted back, flipping andnding on his feet in time to grab the chair and keep it from hitting the ground. He put it back into ce and cleared his throat. Stuck thending. But hey, whether we stay in a team or not, I think Ill be seeing you at the top, eh?


    Chance burst intoughter, and Yeo joined him.


    Its too bad our other teammate is a sourpuss, Yeo said with a sigh. The tests are going to be a real pain if she refuses to participate in any of them.


    Hey, you said it yourself. Im sure shelle around eventually, Chance said. Lets not bother her too much. It isnt polite.


    Yeo rolled his eyes. Whatever. Hey, you hungry? I havent eaten today.


    Yeah, actually. Food sounds great. Maybe we should find out what weve got in the kitchen, Chance suggested.


    What? No way, Yeo said, crossing his arms. Thats for normal days. We should be celebrating! A restaurant is in order.


    Im broke, Yeo. I only just got here, remember?


    Bah. Ill pay for you this time, then, Yeo said. Consider it my weing gift to Centurion.


    Chance narrowed his eyes. And also an excuse to ply me with more questions about Earth, huh?


    Yeos grin widened. And that. You arent allowed to refuse. You seem like a polite guy, and that would be rude.


    Chance burst intoughter. Okay then. Thank you. I will gratefully ept. To be honest, Im starving. I havent eaten anything good in wuh, ages.


    Perfect, Yeo said, not catching his verbal stumble. Lets go, then. I only just got here, so neither of us have had a chance to check the city out. This is a great opportunity.


    Wait, really? Chance asked. Howd you get here so fast? Or did Gibson just know that you were heading over?


    Theres a long waitlist on getting out of the surrounding viges and into Gleam, Yeo said with a grin. Ive been trying to get approved to be a Shikari for a long time. This was my lucky break. My vige is an hour or two away from Gleam, so I hightailed it here as soon as I heard.


    Oh. That makes sense. For some reason, I kind of just assumed that everyone lived in big cities like this one.


    We sure wish we did. Yeos face darkened for a moment. Then he wiped it away with a smile and nodded at the door. Lets go.


    They left his room. As they passed Bes room, Chance paused. Yeo looked over his shoulder at him, raising an eyebrow.


    Really? Werent you the one that said we shouldnt annoy her?


    Its still polite to offer, Chance said, only half believing his own words. It was only polite to invite her, after all. Nobody wanted to be excluded. Probably.


    He rapped on the door. A few secondster, it cracked open and Be pierced him with a baleful re. What is it this time? I thought I made my stance pretty clear with both of you.


    Were going to get dinner, Chance replied. Do you want toe?


    Be stared at him. For an instant, the cold shell covering her face cracked, but Chance couldnt tell what emotion passed behind it. Confusion, perhaps? Or maybe it was just shock at how stupid her new teammates were.


    I  no. Im busy, Be said. Ill always be busy. You dont have to ask.


    She shut the door without waiting for a response. Chance frowned, staring at the wood for a moment. She hadnt mmed it this time. He shrugged and turned, heading down the stairs with Yeo. They left the house and set off down the street.


    That was weird, dont you think? Chance asked.


    What do you mean? She told us to go dance on a pole. Again.


    Yeah, but she didnt seem as angry this time.


    Youre delusional, Yeoughed. I think you just want to make friends with everyone, dont you?


    That seems like a bit of extraption. Ive only tried to make friends with two people since getting here, and it looks like Ive got a fifty percent sess rate.


    How many people our age have you met?


    Two.


    I rest my point, Yeo said. Chance rolled his eyes, but he couldnt find the words to respond to the other boy. His eyes caught on the city skyline as therge sun started to set behind the buildings, illuminating the sky in beautiful purple and orange hues.


    tforms floated above the city, ranging from the size of small courtyards to city blocks. Shimmers of golden light danced between them, forming beautiful pathways and fading away after people crossed them.


    Many of the skyscrapers twisted and rose in ways that Chance was fairly sure physics didnt permit. Some were made of gnarled wood, while others almost resembled steel. No matter their material, magic wasden through every brick and stone of Gleam.

 Chapter 8: Hounds

    Chapter 8: Hounds


    As beautiful as the city was, it was marred by Chances knowledge of what was hidden in the shadows, waiting for anyone foolish or unlucky enough to stumble into it.


    The streets grew busier as they went further down it. People strode down the streets. Some stopped to chat, while others walked quickly without a word. However, a fair number of the people passing by them barely resembled humans at all.


    Some just had minor variations. A barbed tail here, a set ofrge, floppy ears there. Many sported slight changes to their physique, ranging from strangely colored eyes to faint scales on their skin. Yeo noticed Chances darting eyes and elbowed him lightly in the side.


    Dont stare too much. Its rude.


    Chance reddened. Sorry. Ive just never seen anything like this. Its amazing.


    I can imagine. Dad said there were just humans on earth. Seems kind of boring, to be honest. Were there really no changes between people?


    I mean, not unless you count things like physical appearance or skin color. Nobody had horns. Or wings. Or anything else.


    Thats weird. Dont people blend together?


    I dont imagine it would make that much of a difference. Its not like everyone here has a special change either. A lot of people were passing are the same as us.


    Yeo grunted. Yeah, thats true. We just got unlucky. I would have loved to have a useful modification, but those cant be earned. Either youre born with it or you arent.


    Weve still got magic, Chance reminded him. I feel like thats a lot more interesting than anything else we could have gotten.


    True enough. I guess Im just taking Essence for granted, Yeo said. They reached the end of the street, where it merged with a main one. Shops lined the street, signs above them written in anguage Chance didnt understand. Judging by the variation in the symbols, it might have been multiple differentnguages.


    The main road was slightlyrger than the ones Chance was used to, but there were no cars. In fact, there didnt seem to be any vehicles of any sort aside from the birds in the air. Everyone was either walking, flying, or otherwise traveling on their own  and there were a lot of them. The center of the road had been sectioned off for through traffic, while the sides looked like they were reserved for people browsing the stores.


    Whoa, Chance said, trying to take everything in at once. It reminded him of the images hed seen of Times Square, but the neon signs had been reced with magical energy and loud salesmen trying to draw in anyone who happened to be unfortunate enough to catch their eye. The ambient noise in the main road was easily two or three times louder than the previous street, just from the sheer number of people in the area.


    Come on, Yeo said, nodding toward a cluster of small buildings on the other side of the road. You can stare at everythingter. Trust me, well never make it if we stop to really take Gleam in.


    Chance had to agree with him. He followed after Yeo, weaving through the tight traffic and doing his best to keep up with the other boy. Where are the restaurants?


    The buildings I just indicated, Yeo yelled over the crowd. Dont you see their names?


    I cant read thatnguage! Actually, for that matter, howe I can understand you? Why does everyone on this speak English?


    Were not speaking English, Yeo replied, rolling his eyes. Come on, Chance. I know you said you didnt really pay attention when you arrived, but did you listen to anything they said? When you arrived on Centurion, in addition to your Essence being awakened by the Giver, your brain was rewired so that the spokennguage feels natural to you. We all speakmon. And dont ask my why they didnt do that for writing  I dont know.


    <em>Rewired? The Giver? What the hell is Yeo on about? Shit, I wish I could press farther, but I dont think its a good idea. I guess Bobs Cheeto took care of the brain-rewiring as well. What a lovely thought. </em>


    Right. My bad, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. I was really tired.


    Fair enough. Sometimes my mom starts lecturing me and I pass out for the next week. Cant help with your reading problem, though. Youll just have to trust me until you buy a book and learn how to read again. They pushed past the crowd and emerged on the other side of the street. Yeo led Chance up to one of the buildings. A faded sign of orange light glimmered above the door. As Yeo pushed it open and a bell rang, announcing their arrival.


    A thin hallway led into the building, dropping the two off in a room with half a dozen wooden tables lined along the walls. Faint traces of a smokey scent hung in the air, and dull orange motes of light floated withinnterns along the walls, illuminating the restaurant but keeping a darker ambiance.


    A woman with bright pink hair stood behind a small podium with several menus stacked on it. She nced up at them, smoothing her apron out, then grinned.


    Wee to Hounds. Two of you?


    Chance shuddered at the name, but he didnt say anything.


    Yes please, Yeo said.


    Right this way, the woman said, grabbing two of the menus and leading them over to the table at the back corner of the room. They sat down and she put the menus in front of them, adding bundles of napkin-wrapped silverware to the table in front of them. Could I get either of you something to drink to start?


    Milk, please, Chance said.


    Water for me, Yeo added.


    The waitress nodded and headed off through a small door in the opposite corner of the room. Chance flipped the menu open, but he wasnt surprised to find that he couldnt read a single word in it.


    Why is it that we can speak the samenguage, but the written ones arepletely different?


    Were speakingmon, Yeo replied, opening his own menu. The gods banned all other spokennguages, so everyone speaks this. Makes things easier when people show up from worlds other than Centurion.


    I guess that makes sense, Chance allowed. But why just spoken?


    From what I hear, they wanted to standardize writtennguage as well, Yeo said. No clue what happened, though. Its pretty difficult to get a straight answer from a god.


    Chance put his menu down. You mean people just regrly talk to them?


    Well, not regrly. But when you get strong enough, its possible, Yeo said. Just dont expect their answers to be particrly meaningful. Now, enough of this. Do you like meat? Ill choose a dish for you.


    Yeah. Thank you. Chance set the menu back down on the table. It wasnt going to do him much good, after all. A momentter, Yeo did the same.


    No problem, Yeo replied. The waitress emerged from the door in the back, carrying two wooden mugs. She set them down in front of the boys and nced at their menus. Are you ready to order?


    Two Hound Kebabs, please, Yeo said. Chance shot him a sharp look, then remembered that the name of the restaurant and suppressed a sigh.


    Anything else?


    Thats it. Thanks, Yeo said, digging through his pockets and handing the waitress two copper coins.


    She slipped them into a pocket in her apron and smiled. Thank you. Your food will be out shortly.


    The waitress was true to her word. No more than a minute after returning to the kitchen, she came back out with two traysden with sticks of greasy, shimmering meat. Chances mouth watered and he swallowed as she set the tes down on the table.


    Hed never seen such an appetizing te of food on Earth, even when hed been living with his parents. Granted, nobody in his family had been a particrly talented cook. Yeo chuckled and popped a chunk of meat into his mouth. Its good. Now, eat. Ive got a lot of questions.


    Chance ate  and Yeo hadnt lied. He had a lot of questions. They spent almost an hour at the table, talking long after the meal had finished and most of the other patrons that had been sitting when they had arrived had left.


    Well? Yeo asked, letting off his endless stream of inquiries and giving Chance a moment to breathe. What did you think of the food?


    Incredible, Chance replied honestly. His stomach hurt from eating so much, but he hadnt been able to make himself stop. But please dont get anything else  I wont be able to stop myself from eating it, and Ill probably end up exploding.


    Yeoughed and pped him on the shoulder. Dont worry. Once we start training, youre going to need a lot to keep up your energy. You said youve never really learned how to fight, so I bet your metabolism is about to erupt. Kiss cheap food bills goodbye.


    Chance grimaced. Well, at least we get paid well, right?


    Yeah. Now, I want some desert. I wont make you get any, dont worry. We can get to that tomo


    A loud crash from the street outside cut Yeo off, and a deep thrum followed it. Every single one of Chances hairs stood on end as what felt like an electric current surged through his body.


    Holy shit! What was that? Chance hissed, but Yeo was already leaping out of his seat. He grabbed Chances arm and dragged him out of the booth, rushing toward the door. All of the other patrons had vanished as if theyd never been there.


    Theres a monster in the street! A Shikari just Warded the area. This is amazing! We might get to see a really cool fight, Yeo said, throwing the door open and pulling Chance outside.


    No trace of the previous crowd remained outside. Instead, the street was empty. Arge glittering blue energy dome hung above the street, cutting off arge section of the street and vanishing behind them, somewhere amongst the houses.


    Whered everybody go? Wheres the monster? Where is everyone? Whats going on?


    Rx, Yeo said, drawing his sickle and chain and giving the weapon azy spin as his eyes scanned the area. Were in an extradimensional space with the monster. All Shikari in the area get pulled in when the space is formed.


    How the heck do they know were Shikari?


    Gibson must have already registered us, Yeo replied, walking out onto the street and looking around. Damn. Wheres the monster?


    Dont you think we should be a little more careful? Chance asked, his hands twitching at his sides. He hadnt forgotten the endless Soothounds in the alleyways, and was in no rush to run into any of them again. He kept his back pressed to the building to limit the number of ces he could be attacked from. I was hoping for some real training before my n uh, fighting.


    Youll be fine. If a Shikari set up a Ward, then theyre probably more than capable of handling the monster, Yeo said dismissively. Just wait there. Were gonna see something great really soon. This street is the biggest open area in the dome, so the Shikari should be pushing the monster toward us.


    Then it seems like were in a terrible ce!


    Nonsense. Think of this as a learning opportunity. A series of loud crashes echoed from the alleys behind them, each one growing louder. Yeos face lit up. Oh, listen! Itsing!


    Chance didnt get a chance to respond. A blur of ck flesh bounded out of the alley. It flew through the air and crashed into the street, carving deep furrows through the road as it spun back toward the way it hade.


    The monster was roughly canine. A long, purple tongue lolled from its mouth and two sharp horns sprouted from its head. Green blood dripped from a multitude of scars along the monsters body, sizzling as it sshed against the street.


    It resembled the dogs Chance had seen in the alleys, but was a dozen timesrger and more menacing. A keening howl escaped the creatures mouth, revealing dozens of rows of sharklike teeth. It turned two molten red eyes toward Yeo and Chance, and a low growl built in its throat.


    Oh, shit, Chance whispered. Good dog. Easy there.


    Yeo spun his sickle. You want some, mutt? Bring it here!


    Yeo! Chance hissed, bringing his magic forth. What are you doing?


    A bolt of blue light leapt across the street, mming into the dogs side and sending it tumbling across the ground with a pitiful yelp. Chance and Yeo jerked their heads to look in the attacks direction.


    Trying to steal my prey? Thats low, a lean man said, stepping out from the alley, keeping therge bow in his left hand at the ready. His hair was gray, but he only looked a few years older than Chance. He drew an arrow from a quiver on his back and knocked it, taking aim. This is mine, kid. Back off.


    Hey, nobody was here, Yeo said, but he lowered his sickle. Cant me me.


    The arrowunched from the bow, turning into a streak of blue light. It mmed into the dogs side as it tried to rise, throwing tossing it across the ground and mming it against the wall of a building.


    No, I cant. That wont stop me from putting an arrow through you if you go after my coin, though, the man said with a chuckle. He drew another arrow and sent it flying. It caught the monster in the eye, snapping its head back and breaking several bones in its neck with a sharp crack.

 Chapter 9: Gold mist

    Chapter 9: Gold mist


    The monster copsed to the ground, going still. It hadnt been much of a fight at all. More like a ughter. The hunter strode up to the corpse and pulled a small gray orb out of his pockets and tossed it onto his fallen prey.


    Blue light red around the creature and it vanished, turning into a stream of energy and flying into the orb. The glow slowly faded and the Shikari picked it up, turning back to them.


    I dont recognize you. New?


    Just arrived to Gleam today, Yeo said. Both of us.


    Hm. Wheres your friends weapon?


    I dont have one yet, Chance said, stepping out from the doorway hed ducked into. We were just getting dinner. I wasnt expecting a monster to show up.


    Damn, youre green, the man said. Well, youll learn. Or die.


    The dome surrounding them started to lose intensity. The Shikari yawned. This thing was barely worth the damn effort. I hope you kids enjoyed the show. Dont try to steal my prey again.


    No promises. Firste, first serve, Yeo said with a grin. The Shikari cocked his head to the side. Then he smirked.


    Well see. Enjoy your night. If youre any good, maybe well see each other in a tournament.


    He turned as the dome vanishedpletely, and sound rushed back into the city. The bustling crowd returned and swallowed the Shikari. A man nearly strode right into Chance. He veered to the side at thest second, heading off without a word.


    Chance stared in ck jawed awe. What just happened?


    Come on, Yeo said, grabbing Chances sleeve and pulling him out of the way. We were in a Ward. Alternate dimension with the monster. It wasnt a very strong one, so I wasnt worried.


    How did you know it wasnt strong? I mean, that Shikari could have just been really strong, right? We had no way to know.


    Nah. The stronger a monster is, the more itll affect the Ward. Its a fight of power between the Shikari making the Ward and their prey. Since everything still looked like the normal city, it meant the Shikari hadpletely overpowered the monster, Yeo exined. Sorry I didnt have time to tell you more when it happened. I knew we werent in any real danger  I could have taken care of a Soothound myself.


    Thats what the monster was? Chance asked as he and Yeo sat down on a bench along the side of the road. A Soothound?


    Yep. Pretty weak, like I thought. The Shikari looked fairly strong, though. Hes probably around a Knight tier  thats the third one, by the way  or something. Those arrows were packing a serious punch.


    Chance shook his head, trying to wrap his head around thest few minutes. Yeo barely even seemed phased, but he was still trying to figure out how theyd managed to change <em>dimensions </em>without him even noticing.


    Dont think too hard about it, Yeo advised. Youve got way too much to adapt to right now. Just take it one step at a time, and get more in depth once yourefortable.


    I  yeah. Thats probably a good idea, Chance admitted. Is this amon urrence?


    Getting pulled into a Ward? Ive heard it is. Doesnt happen too much out in the boonies. But in a big city like Gleam? Id imagine itll happen all the time. There are probably thousands of monsters roaming the city right now.


    Holy shit. And theyre in this dimension? With everyone else?


    Yeah, Yeo replied. Thats why the Shikari are needed. They keep the city safe  both inside and out.


    Why are there monsters here in the first ce? Chance asked. I cant imagine anyone is just letting them into the city.


    Yeo snorted. They dont just walk in. The monsters inside the city were born here. Trust me, youre going to want to wait a little longer before we get into that. Theres a whole field of research around it, and its pretty nasty.


    Right, Chance said, running a hand through his hair. Shouldnt we be a little more concerned about this, then? Like, couldnt a monster just pop out right now and attack us?


    In a popted area like this? Nah. There are too many Shikari around. When you get strong enough, you can sense monsters in the area. This monster walked too close and a Shikari noticed it, so he killed it. Hell turn that orb into the city and get paid for his work. And, before you ask, theyll use the body for research and energy.


    Makes sense, Chance said slowly, the bustling crowd threatening to overwhelm him. I think I should probably learn how to fight sooner rather thanter.


    <em>I dont think dropping bricks on dogs counts. God, thats an awful thought to have. They werent really dogs. I hope. </em>


    Only if you want to live long, Yeo said, punching him in the shoulder. Come on. Maybe its time we go back to the Whiteheart house.


    Chance nodded. I think that might be a good idea.


    They pushed through the crowd and headed back along the street. Chance spotted signs that looked like they identified the roads, but just like everything else, he couldnt actually read their names.


    The new Shikari got back to Whiteheart house and headed inside. Once the door was shut behind them, Chance let out his pent up breath and brushed his hair back.


    Its really something, isnt it? Yeo asked. I cant wait to explore the rest of Gleam. Weve barely seen anything.


    Yeah. Its huge, Chance said. He looked down at his hands. But I really want to learn how to use magic. Like, really badly. I feel like theres so much more, and I havent even scratched the surface.


    Sure. I need a good sparring partner, and I dont see anyone else around thats willing to do it. Yeo gave him arge grin. You better get a lot of sleep tonight. I get up early. And youre damn right  considering you just got it, you probably havent even touched the surface, much less scratched it.


    Noted, Chance said.


    Yeo raised a hand and started ascending the stairwell. He paused halfway up and cursed. Aw man, I forgot to get dessert.


    Youll live, Chance said wryly.


    Thats what you think. I might not wake up tomorrow due to starvation, Yeo replied with a dramatic flourish. He winked, then disappeared up the stairs. Chance chewed his lower lip for a moment, then wandered over to the kitchen.


    It looked surprisingly simr to what a kitchen would have looked like on earth. There was a sink set in the center of an old, cracked marble counter. Behind it was arge steel box with atch. Chance pulled it open and a wave of cold washed out from within it.


    It was full of meat, vegetables, and other chilled foods. Chance let it shut again. The box was some sort of fridge, but he couldnt see any power source running it.


    <em>I wonder if the energyes from those orbs that the Shikari get from monster bodies? </em>


    He resolved to ask Pete about it at some point in the future. Chance went through the rest of the kitchen, testing the burners on a metal stove. There was a click and gas sparked as the stove lit.


    Huh. Gas stove, Chance said to himself, turning it off. I guess not everything here is magic. I suppose it makes sense since a lot of people from Earth get pulled over here. Im sure at least a few of them knew how to spread some of our inventions around.


    He finished his investigation and headed up the stairs to his room, passing through the hall as quietly as he could to avoid mistakenly drawing Bes ire again. He made it back safely and shut the door, flopping down on his bed and slipping under the covers without hesitation.


    He had so many things he wanted to think about, but he never got the chance. As soon as his head hit the pillow, everyst remaining thought vanished from his mind he was fast asleep.


    Several thunks rang out. Chance bolted upright, catching himself on the covers and nearly falling off the bed like a clumsy caterpir. He hurriedly untangled himself, barely managing to extract his limbs from the beds hungry grip before someone knocked on the door again.


    Coming! Chance said, ring at the stubborn sheets before walking over and opening the door. Yeo raised a hand in salute.


    Still sleeping?


    Chance nced out the window. Heavy clouds hung in front of light orange hues in the sky. He could just barely make out the sunlight reflecting off some of the buildings in the distance.


    Yeah, sorry. Im ready.


    Great! Pete is going to join us too. He was up before me.


    Oh, thats nice. Gibson did say he was supposed to teach us, or something.


    Yeo snorted. I dont need to learn anything else. Ive been training for years. But thisll be useful for you, at least.


    Chance wasnt so sure about that, but he wasnt about to question his cocky teammate. Its not like it would have aplished anything, and there was always the possibility that Yeo really was some sort of prodigy.


    They headed out of his room and down the stairs, pausing for a moment as they passed Bes room.


    Do you think


    You really want to try asking her? Yeo cocked an eyebrow. I think I can predict how thatll go.


    Yeah, Chance muttered. Especially if we wake her up. Its still the polite thing to do though, isnt it?


    Depends on how rude you consider waking someone up.


    Fair point. Maybe not. Ill ask her if she wants to join the next time we see each other.


    If she gets her way, that time will be never, Yeo said with a chortle. They reached the bottom of the stairs and headed into the living room. A door at the rooms back led out into a small dirt courtyard behind the house. A circle had been drawn around it, marking out a sparring arena. Pete stood outside, leaning on his staff.


    Are you two ready to begin? he asked. The faster I can get you into fighting shape, the safer youll be.


    So Ive found, Chance said. We went into the city yesterday and got pulled into a Ward.


    Not an umon urrence, but if youre pulled into a Ward, you should be safe. It means a Shikari initiated it, and theyre probably confident they can defeat their target, Pete said. The bigger problem would be if a monster finds you outside a Ward. We can worry about thatter, though. Gibson gave me some basic information on where you both stand, but Id like to hear it from you.


    I already know what I need to. Yeo said with a one-shouldered shrug. Ive been training with a kusarigama since I was a few years old, and Ive been pursuing the Essence of Metal since the same age. Unless youve got insight into Metal, theres nothing you can teach me there.


    I see, Pete said. And what about you, Chance?


    I, uh, make gold mist.

 Chapter 10: Obligatory Ranking Chapter

    Chapter 10: Obligatory Ranking Chapter


    Pete chuckled. Well, we all have to start somewhere. Yeo, you seem fairly confident in your skills. Well talk about thatter. For now, though, how about you just help me get Chance up to speed?


    That was the n, Yeo said. So, where are we starting?


    Why dont we take a look at that mist of yours, Chance? Pete asked. Try to form a shield. The most important thing when youre new is to be able to defend yourself.


    Chance nodded.


    <em>Thank you. </em>


    Heat burned in his chest as the magic came to bear, forming into a glimmering wall before him. Pete examined it, cocking his head to the side.


    How curious. Are you imagining that the shield is solid?


    Yeah, Chance replied. But the only form I can seem to get my mag  ah, Essence to take is this mist.


    Thats fine. Not every cultivation path is going to lend itself toward making physical things, Pete said with an encouraging smile. And you might also just not be far enough along its path to solidify something yet. Do you know what your Essence is?


    Not a clue. I think its got to do with luck, though.


    Yeo poked Chances shield. Some of the wispy energy gathered around his hand and he waved it off. Then he picked up a rock.


    Hey, what are you


    Yeo threw the stone at him. It flew past Chances shoulder and bounced off the wall,ing back in a beautiful arc tond straight on top of Yeos head. The boy cursed, staggering back while Chance burst intoughter.


    Thats what you get! You could have at least warned me. I told you it was some sort of luck.


    Petes eyebrows raised. That was quite the turnaround. I was expecting a tiny nudge, not aplete reversal of an attack. Chance, how are you feeling?


    Fine. Why?


    Not tired at all?


    No. Should I be? We only just woke up.


    Using Essence tires you out, Yeo said. The more you use it or the stronger it is, the faster youll run out of energy. Thats why I was saying youre going to start eating a lot. Youre pretty new, so youve probably only got a few good moves in you before you konk out.


    Well, I do feel this burning in my chest whenever I use magic, Chance said.


    Thats the Essence refining your body, Pete exined. Whenever you draw on Essence, it strengthens your body and burns away the impurities in it bit by bit. The less impurities you have, the more youll be able to channel your Essence and the stronger of a cultivator youll be.


    Not just that, Yeo added. Impurities basically stick to each other. Like attracts like, you know? So the more impure you are, the harder it is to get rid of it.


    What happens if you do get rid of all of it? Chance asked.


    Thats incredibly difficult, Pete said, leaning on his staff and smiling like he was talking to an optimistic child. Most people never do. We pick too much impurity up in our life. Hypothetically, if you get rid of all of it, your aptitude for channeling Essence goes up by an enormous amount. Youll grow stronger at an incredibly increased rate, youll be resistant to gaining impurities again, and your Essence will be more responsive to what you want it to do.


    Dont worry too much about it. Yeo punched Chance in the arm. Ive heard some really unlucky people have choked to death as their bodies were spewing out their impurities. It isnt all good.


    Chance paused. Wait, what?


    When someone manages to purge all of their impurities, it usuallyes in arge rush of foul-smelling bile, Pete said. It can go on for quite some time, depending on how impure their body was. Dont concern yourself over it. I dont mean to discourage you, but since youre from Earth, your body is likelypletely riddled with impurity. Youve never channeled Essence, so itll take you a long time and much more work just to catch up with many of your peers.


    <em>Ah. Thats what you did for me, Bob. Thank you. Never would have thought a stale Cheeto was the key to a perfect body.</em>


    Dont look so down, Yeo said. Well get you in fighting shape in no time, dont worry. I dont care what youve got to go against.


    Yeah, Chance said with a grin. Dont worry. Im not about to give up.


    Nor should you. To be honest, you seem to have incredible control over your Essence already. Far more than I would have expected any new Shikari to have. Its incredibly umon to have that much control over it before youre even a Foundling.


    Thanks, Chance said. He decided it probably wasnt a great idea to say the reason why he had said control. Not yet. And Foundling?


    Pete chuckled. Its a rank. Has Yeo told you about them yet?


    Just that were basically unranked.


    Right, you arent officially full Shikari yet, Pete exined. There are ten ranks in addition to Apprentice within the Shikari order. Foundling, Squire, Knight, Baron, Earl, Duke, Lord, King, Saint, and God.


    Makes sense. Are there any actual concrete differences in the ranks, though? Like, how do you know which one someone is?


    At its core, your rank is based on your cultivation  how much of your Essence you understand. The Shikari have exams and tournaments where they can officially increase your rank, but thats all really just formality. If you cultivate enough and have gathered sufficient Essence within you, youll go up a rank and everyone would know.


    So someone could hypothetically be as strong as a god, but still ranked as a Foundling?


    Yeah. The Shikaris influence doesnt extend off Centurion, and there are more than a few off-world presences roaming around that have more strength than either of us couldprehend. There are many names that people use for ranks outside of Gleam, though the mostmon is just numbers, Pete said, running a hand through his white hair as he seemed to remember something from long ago. Before you ask, youll know when you rank up. It is not an experience that is easily missed. To be honest, you arent truly a cultivator until you be a Squire. Everything changes after that. You cant use pills, with the exception of healing pills, until youre a Squire. Same with special cultivation techniques  and thats just barely scratching the surface.


    What do you mean? Chance asked. I thought everyone that can channel Essence is a cultivator.


    Eh. Its more like theyve got the potential to be a cultivator, Pete said, waggling a hand back and forth. Foundlings havent gathered enough Essence in their bodies to truly unlock their powers. When you do, youll know. Its slightly different for everyone, and its best I dont tell you exactly what will happen, but Ill say this  pay attention when you go from Foundling to Squire. Youll see something that will guide your path for the rest of your life.


    If Chance hadnt already been interested in cultivation, that would have caught his attention. Since he was, that only made him even more curious. He really wanted to push Pete for more information, but if the old man wasnt going to tell them specifics, there was probably a reason. Reluctantly, he nodded.


    What else is there, then?


    There are pre-established methods to using your Essence in an optimal way called techniques. Many Shikari use them to fight, and your ability to use techniques can also influence your rank. You can also make your own techniques, but I wouldnt even worry about that until youre at least Baron ranked. Anything earlier and youll just be wasting your time.


    When you say techniques you mean like special moves? Chance asked, trying to hold back augh. Ones where you yell the name out when you use it?


    Yeo grinned. You got it. My dad is a huge technique user, and it rubbed off on me. Theyre really quite useful. Dontugh too hard, Chance.


    Sorry. I didnt mean to insult, Chance said.


    Its important to note that there are three normal paths to power for a cultivator, and any good Shikari will utilize all three, Pete said, raising three fingers. Cultivation is the first and most important. You understand the basics there. Techniques are another, but I would argue that the third  Aura  is more important, even though it isnt quite as shy or interesting.


    Aura? Chance asked. Like the energy around you?


    Exactly, Pete said. Aura is what protects you from the Essence of other cultivators and monsters. Its essentially your resistance to being changed by someone elses Essence, whether through physical or other means. You cant see it yet, but youll eventually develop the ability as you cultivate.


    Its also the most boring, Yeo muttered. And theres no good way to train it.


    You can tell Yeos aura is weak because he was affected by your mist. You dont have a lot of Essence in it yet, so only someone with a weak aura would be caught in it. You can train your Aura through meditation. It naturally grows as you cultivate, Pete said. Aura control is often what ends up deciding battles. If youre attacking something, but your Essence cant even touch it, youre going to lose.


    Chance nodded his understanding and Pete pped him on the shoulder.


    Theres a lot more to cultivation than what weve covered, but a lot of it is best learned on your own.


    And techniques are still the coolest way to use your powers, Yeo added, scowling at Pete. Once you get good enough to spar against me, Ill show you some of them. Otherwise, youll just have to wait to see me use them against a monster.


    Not that either of you will be fighting a monster anytime too soon, Pete said sternly. He thumped his staff against the ground. I dont know how things were done outside Gleam, Yeo, but there are rules in this city, and theyre here for your safety. Until youve taken the Ranking Exam, no hunting.


    I figured as much, Yeo said with a weary sigh. How long until we can take it?


    Youre wee to take it whenever you want, Pete replied. Just keep in mind you have to take it as a team, and if you fail, you cant try again for a month. Dont get too jumpy, or youll cost yourself a lot of time.


    Right, Yeo said, turning to Chance. We need to get you a weapon and start training, then. Maybe some really easy techniques as well.


    Ive never used anything like that before, Chance warned. Im not sure how quickly Im going to pick up using something like that.


    Dont worry. Weve got a very talented Battlemaster, Pete said. Hell take a look at you and get you started with a weapon, which will lend itself to techniques once you get good enough with it.


    What are we waiting for, then? Yeo demanded. Lets go!


    ***


    Nothing. You cant use any of the weapons in this room.


    Chance, Pete, and Yeo sat on a bench inside a massive armory beside the training fields. Weapons of every sort covered the walls, ranging from crossbows to massive battleaxes. Arge, scar covered man by the name of Jagg stood before them, his arms crossed and a frown stered across his bearded face.


    What? Yeo eximed. That cant be right. Anyone can use at least something. Maybe he doesnt have the training yet, but


    None of the weapons Ive got out. Jagg shook his head. I am confident. Hecks the spirit for them. That usually isnt the case with Earth arrivals  most of them have a drive to use one of my weapons, but this boy has none.


    Hey, that isnt true, Chance protested. I want to fight!


    Jagg cocked an eyebrow. He grabbed a dagger from the wall and handed it to Chance, who took it and held it awkwardly in front of him. Pete and Yeo grimaced.


    Okay, that looks pretty bad, Yeo admitted. But he can learn.


    Anyone can learn how to use a weapon. But I would not trust his  or your  life in the hands of a man who does not connect with his weapon.


    So what does this mean? He cant use a weapon? Yeo asked.


    No. He cannot use the weapons I have <em>here</em>, Jagg said. You do not listen well. Fix it. I can feel an affinity, but its strange. Wrong, almost. Also  boy, why do you have an aptitude for bricks?


    Chance cleared his throat. Never mind that. I dont want a brick to be my weapon of choice. Wait, how did you know that?


    You used one as a weapon. I can feel it, Jagg said, tapping Chances shoulder. Your words lie, but your body and Essence does not. Now,e. Draw on your Essence and see if it pulls you toward anything.


    Heat welled up in Chances chest, enveloping the rest of his body as he brought the golden mist to his fingertips. He nced at Jagg expectantly.


    Ask it to guide you, Jagg said. Theres no guarantee itll work, and I already have a weapon I think will fit you in mind, but if the Essence has already chosen, then it will make things easier for both of us.


    Chance examined the magic pooling in his palms. Hed yet to see it actually guide him anywhere, but perhaps a little luck wouldnt be remiss. Pressing his lips together, he tried to picture it leading him toward something that he could use to protect himself and his teammates.


    <em>It also wouldnt hurt if it was cool, but that really isnt  </em>


    The smoke slipped between his fingers and pooled on the floor before slithering toward a door in the armory. Chances eyes widened and Jagg chuckled.


    Thats a strong connection. How long have you been cultivating? I havent seen such responsive Essence in a while.


    Uh a few days.


    Jagg stared at him. Right. Earth. Is your path a verybat focused one? Perhaps Ipletely misread you.


    <em>Im pretty sure this is all because Im all pure or whatever, but Im not about to go blurting that out. </em>


    Its got something to do with luck. Maybe this counts? Chance hedged.


    Perhaps, Jagg answered with a grunt. He followed the trail of Essence and pushed the door open, walking inside the room it led to. The three of them waited in silence as therge battlemasters grumbles echoed out of the room hed entered, joined by the ng of shifting metal.


    A few minutester, he walked back out, a bundle of oiled leather in his hand. It was a little longer than the length of Chances forearm, and the hilt of a in metal sword stuck out of the back.


    Your weapon is a sword? After all this? Yeo asked with augh. Whyd it make him dig through a bunch of stuff first?


    This, Jagg said, unwrapping the oiled bundle to reveal a sword that ended in a t, sloping edge akin to a razor de. Is not a sword.


    Upon closer inspection, Chance realized that thin, almost invisible lines ran horizontally along the des length.


    What is it? Chance asked.


    Jagg set the oilcloth aside and took the weapon by the hilt. Follow me.


    The battlemaster led them out into a small training field behind the armory. It was a surrounded by a small fence that kept them hidden from prying eyes. He walked out into the center, then held a hand up.


    Dont get any closer. This is not a weapon I have spent much time learning how to master. My skill with it is not sufficient to keep you safe should you mistakenly enter its range.


    He flicked his hand. With a series of crisp clinks, the sword whipped out. The segments of the de came apart, connected together by two thin metal wires that ran through the weapon. Jagg spun the snakelike weapon and it whistled through the air around him, shimmering in and out in a terrifying and graceful dance.


    The links of the de twirled around Jagg once more before he snapped his wrist to the side and it retracted, snapping back together in less than a second. Chance gaped at Jagg.


    My Essence thinks I should use <em>that</em>? Ill cut myself in half before I end up hitting someone else.

 Chapter 11: Urumi

    Chapter 11: Urumi


    It is an urumi, Jagg exined, walking back to them. And it is a weapon that requires an incredible amount of skill to use properly  far more than most do. It is also very dangerous to the wielder, as Im sure you could see. A mistake is more liable to cut you rather than your opponent. However, none of these are the reasons why I do not use an urumi. Do you know why I will not use this weapon?


    Because youre trying not to take out half your allies in the middle of a fight? Chance guessed.


    Partially. But the main reason is the environment. All the skill in the world will not make up for an unfortunate slip. Battle is not predictable, but you can recover your bnce without causing serious damage when using other weapons. Not with an urumi. If you lose your footing or find yourself the target of an unlucky strike, the urumi will likely strike you or your allies.


    That sounds like a horrible idea for a beginners weapon, Yeo said. The urumi seems like it has a lot of simrities with my kusarigama, but at least Ive only got one point to worry about, while hes got the whole whip.


    There are other differences between the weapons. A kusarigama has more mobility and range than an urumi. Its more like a ranged weapon, while an urumi is a midrange one.


    Can we get back to the part where Im meant to use this?? Chance hedged. I mean, its the coolest weapon Ive ever seen, dont get me wrong. Id love to use it, but Ive never used a sword in my life. This seems a thousand times more dangerous than anything else I could have chosen. Even a sword would be way safer.


    Jagg flipped the de around and extended it, hilt first, toward Chance. Swallowing, Chance took it. The weapon was a lot lighter than hed expected. It did have some weight to it, just not much.


    Its an urumi. Not a sword, Jagg repeated. I feel your Essence, and I agree with your choice. The urumi is your weapon. You do not have to follow my instructions. You will simply be wrong.


    What about me? Yeo asked. Is the kusarigama my true weapon?


    Yes.


    I guess that was easy, Yeo muttered. He pointed at Pete. What about gramps, then?


    Warhammer.


    Yeo snorted inughter. He nced at Pete, then caught himself when he realized the old man wasnt smiling.


    Seriously?


    Pete tapped his staff on the ground. The wood at its top bulged and gnarled wood reached out, forming into a heavy head in seconds. It stopped once the weapon was nearly as tall as Pete was  and it looked considerably heavier than the frail man.


    Well, damn, Yeo said with a whistle. Thats a weapon all right.


    Jagg was the one who told me that it was what I was meant to use. He was correct, Pete said. I rmend trusting him, but I wont force you to do anything.


    Is there any way for me to try this without identally cutting myself to pieces? Chance asked.


    Jagg nodded. To a degree. I will protect you from yourself. You may attempt to wield it. Just make sure you are standing in the ring, and not outside of it. It would be unfortunate if Pete had to break your weapon.


    Chance nced at the old man, then nodded and walked out into the center of the dirt. He tightened his hand around the hilt of the urumi.


    Rx, Jagg instructed. Wielding your true weapon is cultivation in its own right. You must flow like water. If your movements are stiff, you will injure yourself.


    Chance let out a slow breath and let his grip loosen around the hilt until it rested naturally in his palm.


    Good. Cultivate your Essence. Then flick your hand to the side to extend the urumi. Do not stop moving once you do. Slow, deliberate arcs will keep it in motion. Keep in mind that the end of the whip will move faster than the hilt, so changes in speed will be magnified.


    And dont let go, Yeo added with a smirk.


    Thanks, Chance said dryly, trying to suppress augh. Getting distracted while swinging around a rope of ded death didnt sound like a very good idea. He called on the golden mist and the familiar burning sensation in his chest greeted him. Even though the urumi was an inanimate object, it almost felt like it was vibrating in his hand.


    Chance flicked his hand and the urumi leapt to obey. It clicked apart, extending with a hiss and biting into one of the walls. He pulled it back, only barely stopping himself from turning the motion into a sharp yank.


    The whip slid free of the wall effortlessly, and Chance transitioned the movement into a very awkward loop above his head. That felt like more than enough, so he flicked his hand again. The urumi whistled through the air and snapped back together in his hand.


    Very good, Jagg said, giving him an approving nod. As I said. It is your true weapon. If you put in the proper practice, you will be able to gain mastery over it.


    He reached into his pocket and tossed chance a small ss vial into the air. Chance nearly dropped the urumi as he ran to grab it. There was a handful of small, green pills inside it.


    Whats this?


    For when you inevitably cut yourself, Jagg said. Much of your practice will not be here. Those pills have condensed life Essence within them. They will mend your injury, so long as you can swallow them.


    Thank you, Chance said. This seems like it was very expensive.


    You will pay it back eventually. The weapon is part of your allotted belongings as a Shikari, and with a de such as this one, it would be remiss to not give you a way to properly learn it.


    Is there a specific way Im mean to practice? A guide or something? Chance asked, feeling somewhat stupid at the question.


    Start by getting to know it. Once you can feel the de like a part of your arm, then you may look at learning urumi techniques. There is a Shikari library that you may utilize after you are Squire rank.


    Not before then? Chance asked, frowning slightly.


    <em>I was really hoping I could start learning some techniques now. The sooner I get stronger, the sooner I can protect myself against whatever Yamish has waiting for me in the Old City. </em>


    The books are in high demand, Jagg replied with a shrug. And there are a lot of Shikari. Generally, Foundlings dont have the proper foundation to use techniques anyway.


    I see. Thank you again, Jagg, Chance said, bowing. Hed never bowed to someone before, but it just felt right. He nced up, catching a flicker of surprise cross Jaggs face before the battlemaster returned the motion and they both rose.


    Do I get cool things too? Yeo asked.


    No. You already have a weapon, Jagg said tly. And my services cost money for every meeting after the first. If you want tutge or weapons, bring coin next time.


    Thank you for your help, Jagg, Pete said, putting his hands on Yeo and Chances shoulders. As always, youve been an invaluable help.


    Jagg grunted and gave them a curt nod. Youre wee. I still think your talents are wasted in this role, Pete.


    Youre wee to have that opinion, Pete said, steering them toward the armorys exit. Just as I am wee to have mine.


    They left the armory and returned to their house on Shikarine without any ado. Yeo and Chance exchanged a nce, each trying to see if the other knew what Jagg had been talking about, but it was clear they were equally lost.


    Ive got some things I need to take care of, Pete said as they drew up to the door of the Whiteheart house. Ill be back before nightfall.


    Is that like a warning so we dont do anything too stupid? Yeo asked.


    No. Do what you want. Im not your father. Pete chuckled. Im just letting you know Ill be out. Youre relying on my knowledge, after all. Ill try to make sure Im more avable to help with training in the future.


    Its no problem. Chance looked down at the urumi in his hand. Ive got my hands more than full with this. I think Ill focus on gettingpetent with it before I try to get any fancier.


    Good, Pete said with a kindly smile. Best of luck. Try to make sure youve got someone around when youre practicing with the urumi. Its quite the difficult weapon to handle. And keep those healing pills


    The door flung open with a bang and Be strode out of the house, her lips thin and her eyes burning in fury.


    Pete.


    Yes, Be?


    They took my gods damned license, Be ground out. Why have I been demoted?


    Because youre part of a team now, Pete replied, his brows lowering in what might have been embarrassment. Im sorry, Be. I know this isnt what you wanted, but there was nothing I could do.


    Bes hands trembled at her hands, her knuckles white. She ground her teeth and let out a slow hiss, forcing her hands to open back up. I did every single thing I was asked. All for one. Gods. Damned. Thing. How was that too much to ask for? I spent years, Pete! Years!


    Tendrils of dark water twitched at her feet like a nest of furious snakes. Pete sighed and shook his head. I talked to Gibson, Be. I did. He was dead set on this. He said that youd gotten the rules bent for long enough, and this was just righting things. Nothing I say or do will change his mind. Is being on a team truly that bad? I think you could grow to like it.


    You have no idea what youre talking about, Be spat. She stormed past him, but Pete leveled his staff, blocking her path.


    You arent going anywhere in that state of mind, youngdy.


    You arent my father, Pete. Get out of my way. Im going to go deal with Gibson myself.


    Then I know I cant let you go, Pete said wearily. If youe at him swinging, you might never work as a Shikari again.


    Thats better than the alternative.


    That isnt true and we both know it, Pete said. Go back to the house until youve calmed down, Be. I wont stop you from talking with Gibson, but you wont be doing it in this state.


    Last warning. Dark streams of water twisted up around Bes arms, forming into a jagged axes in her hands. Move, or Ill make you.


    Pete sighed and shifted his stance. Perhaps this will help you blow off some steam.


    The staff in his hands bulged, branches sprouting from its top and forming into the head of a warhammer. Be paused for an instant, but Pete showed no such hesitation. He shot forward, moving far faster than Chance thought possible for anyone, much less someone of his age, and swung the huge wooden weapon.


    Bes water surged to form a shield, catching the blow before it could hit her. She whipped her knee up, but Pete deflected it with the side of his hand. He swept her legs out from under her, but she turned her fall into a cartwheeling kick.


    Pete jerked his chin back just before her foot connected, then swung his hammer once more. Water molded to block it once more, this time racing down the shaft and engulfing Petes hand.


    A powerful wave of pressure rolled off the old man and he stomped a foot into the ground, thrusting his free hand toward Be. An invisible forceunched her backward and into the wall of Whiteheart house.


    She staggered to her feet, but not fast enough to block the violent hammer blow that mmed down on top of her. Water formed a cocoon around her, but it wasnt enough topletely block the blow and she was sent flying into the air.


    Holy shit. Is he trying to kill her? Chance eximed.


    Shes fine, Yeo replied. Look.


    Be twisted midair, streamers of water spraying out from her back. She thrust her hands forward and they formed into razor-sharp tendrils, drilling down toward the old man as she fell.


    With a flourish, Pete tapped his hammer against the ground. Another thrum ran through the air, vibrating Bes attacks so violently that the water fell apart into a harmless rain. Pete tossed his hammer to the side and drove a knee up into Bes chest as she fell.


    It connected with a loud crack, but she managed to twist her body to drive her knee into Petes face at the same time.


    They pushed apart from each other and Be rolled across the ground before rising back to her feet. Pete rubbed his cheek and grinned.


    Youve gotten better, Be.


    She growled and dashed at him again. Pete raised his hand and his hammer flew back into it. He spun, building momentum before mming it into Be andunching her into the sky for the second time.


    Pete would be killer at baseball, Chance muttered, stillpletely ufortable with the entire fight. Wasnt Pete supposed to be teaching them? This looked more like aggravated assault.


    As bad as the blow looked, Bes face was only a little bloodied. She reared back and water rushed into her hands, creating a massive axe. Screaming, she brought it crashing down toward Pete.


    The old man snapped his fingers. Once again, her Essence disintegrated and he thrust a hand into her stomach. Be caught the blow, then twisted her body sharply to the side. Laughing, Pete spun with the move.


    Somehow, Be turned into the one spinning as Petes legs found solid ground under them once more. He mmed her into the ground with a thud that made both Chance and Yeo wince.


    Thats enough, Pete said.


    Bes chest rose and fell heavily as she tried to gather her breath. The two stared at each other for several moments. Then Pete extended a hand. With a defeated sigh, Be took it and the old man pulled her up.

 Chapter 12: Gifts

    Chapter 12: Gifts


    That was better than ourst match, Pete said. Your movements are still too predictable, though.


    I  not now, Pete, Be said, looking at the ground. Her fingernails bit into her palms and she clicked her tongue in anger. Damn it. Fine. I wont talk with him, but I really need to get some air.


    Go, then. Remember your future, Pete said, stepping to the side. His hammer turned back to a staff and he sighed. Im getting too old for this.


    Are you okay? Chance asked Be as she walked past them. Ive got some healing pills. It looks like you got hit really hard.


    Be stopped for a moment, squinting at him like he was trying to sell her a rug.


    Are you crazy? Yeo asked. Those are expensive! Dont just hand them out. Theyre for you to figure out how to use your urumi.


    Yeah, but did you see that fight? I definitely heard something crack! Chance snapped. Thats a serious injury.


    You really mean that, dont you? A flicker of emotion passed over Bes face before she banished it, her brow creasing in either amusement or disgust  Chance couldnt tell which. Keep your pills. I dont need them.


    She strode off down the street without another word.


    Shell warm up eventually, Pete said. Bes a strong willed girl.


    More like a brat, Yeo snorted. Cant we just get a different teammate?


    No, Pete said. Youll all have to learn to work with each other.


    Lovely, Yeo said. Shes going to be such a drag.


    Chance just grunted, a yawn forcing its way out of his mouth. He was suddenly feeling very tired. Im sure well eventually figure a way out to work together. At least shes a really good fighter.


    Thats true, Yeo said begrudgingly. I bet I could have done just as good.


    Pete cocked an eyebrow. Im not too tired to take you on too, and I can make a little time before I head off.


    Yeos eyes lit up and he pulled his kusarigama from his side. You should have said so earlier, gramps.


    Im going to get a little rest, Chance said before they could start. I think everything is catching up to me. Ill catch you aroundter, okay?


    Sounds good, Yeo replied, not taking his eyes off Pete.


    Chance stepped into the house as the two started to spar. He headed up the stairs and into his room, flopping into bed as soon as he got it. The weariness hung around him like an anchor now, growing heavier with every passing second.


    Within a few minutes, he was fast asleep.


    ***


    Chance was in the alleys again. They stretched out all around him, their unnatural darkness draped overhead warping his vision of the sky. The corpses of several dozen small Soothoundsid around his feet, their bodies wrung out and dry.


    Even as dread from the nightmarishndscape crept into his mind, Chance couldnt stop the thrill of what almost felt like excitement. He <em>wanted </em>to hunt again. To get stronger.


    Across the alley from him, a Soothounds drained corpse in his hands and floating upside-down, was Yamish. His body rotated around his head once more, and the strange man discarded the monsters corpse.


    This isnt a dream, is it? Chance asked, looking down at himself as his stomach twisted into knots.


    Worry not, Yamish said. His mouth twisted into a frown, but something was off about it. The lines were wrong. After an instant, Chance realized that his mouth was somehow upside down, and he was trying to smile. I have only drawn you here temporarily. You will return when we are finished.


    Chance let out a relieved sigh. Thank God. I really didnt want to get stuck here again. Wait. Whats the religion here? Is there even a real god, or is it just cultivators that just got very strong?


    A question indeed, Yamish said, licking his lips. One of his eyes flicked to the side and his hand shot out. A tiny whisp of ck energy slithered from it and, a momentter, a Soothounds corpse tumbled across the ground and flew into his grasp.


    He brought the monster to his mouth and bit into its neck, greedily sucking the blood that emerged from the wound. The Soothounds body withered and he pulled away with a sigh, offering it to Chance. Hungry?


    No thank you, Chance said, his stomach flipflopping. If he got his way, hed never eat one of the things again in his life.


    Yamish shrugged, draining thest few drops from the creature before discarding it. You wonder why I brought you here.


    I do, Chance admitted, then hastily added, not that I dont appreciate you saving me. Seriously, I do. I


    Yamish blurred forward, pressing a long finger to Chances lips and silencing him. Hush. Promises spoken thrice are not easily broken.


    Chance swallowed, then nodded. Yamish pulled his hand back and twisted his mouth, putting it back in the proper position.


    So why am I here?


    You are bound to the Old City, Yamish replied. You partook of its offerings, after all.


    Chance looked down at the corpses at their feet. You mean the monsters?


    Yes. You took their strength, and so the Old City must be repaid, Yamish said. No gift is given freely.


    Not even yours?


    Yamishs lips turned up in a grin. A quick learner. I am different. My gift to you has already benefited me. Do you understand your cultivation path yet?


    No, Chance admitted. Its got something to do with luck, right?


    Yamish pressed his lips together. You do not understand. This is fine. You will.


    It sounds like you do. Cant you just tell me?


    In which way does a child better learn that fire is hot? When his parent tells him it is hot, or when he touches it?


    Thetter, I guess, Chance said. But what if the child gets hurt or worse?


    There are always ways to make more children.


    Chance cleared his throat. Maybe well avoid that part, then. Ill try to figure it out on my own. But what can I give to a bunch of alleys?


    Yamishughed. It was a dry, raspy noise. Much. I will teach you the ways. There are three rules in the Old City. The first  everything wishes to take your life. The second  pay for what you take. And the third  when given a gift, you must take it.


    Chance started to nod, then paused. When you say everything


    Yamishs grin grew wider. Come, Chance. We must pay your debt off to the Old City. Vermin clutter its streets, and you must sweep. I have un-forgotten your weapon.


    A weight settled into Chances hands. He nced down to find that his urumi had appeared in his grip. He swallowed. I dont know how to use this yet.


    A good time to learn. Yamish started to walk down the alley and Chance hurried after him, stepping between the Soothound bodies littering the ground.


    Could I also get my healing pills, then?


    Yamishs head twisted around one hundred and eighty degrees to look at him. A burnt child will remember.


    Yeah, Chance muttered. I suppose he will.


    <em>And I really want to get stronger. Strong people dont get teleported around and stuck in a bunch of alleyways with a creepy floating guy. They forge their own path, and they can help anyone they want to  starting with themselves. </em>


    Come. We have much to sweep.


    It didnt surprise Chance much that when Yamish said sweep, he really meant kill. As soon as they walked into the next alley over, the strange man was gone. A growling Soothound greeted Chance, its red eyes burning with hunger.


    It leapt at him and Chance dove to the side with a curse, nearly impaling himself on his own weapon. He scrambled to his feet, but the monster was already nearly on him again. Even if he managed to bring his Essence to bear, there wasnt enough time for it to work.


    Something pushed Chances hand. He flicked his wrist and the urumi snaked out, punching into the Soothounds chest. The monster tumbled across the ground, skidding to a stop against Chances feet.


    Very good, Yamish said, releasing Chances hand. The child did not get burnt.


    Something tells this child that there are more fires to y with, Chance muttered, flicking his wrist. The urumi ripped itself from the dogs chest and snapped back into its sword shape.


    Indeed, Yamish said with a raspyugh. Onward.


    Over the next several hours, Chance followed Yamish through the alleys. The strange man disappeared at random intervals, asionally returning to correct Chances form or, on one asion, redirect his urumi before he mistakenly took his own head off with it.


    Despite Yamishs words about letting him get burnt by his mistakes, the man seemed intent on making sure he didnt kill himself. Chance wasnt about toin about that, and he couldnt deny that it was effective.


    He wouldnt go as far to say that he wasfortable with the sword whip, but every fight made it feel just a little more natural in his hands. Even so, without Yamishs help, Chance was fairly certain he would be down a few limbs at this point.


    Yamish came to an abrupt stop in an alley, turning to look back at him.


    Is something wrong? Chance asked.


    The Old City is pleased with your progress. As am I, Yamish said. We are done for today.


    Chance felt like he should have been relieved, but instead, he was just confused. How often will we do this?


    Whenever it is right. Yamish shrugged. I will ensure it does not happen when others can witness it. You must remember to keep this secret.


    I  okay, Chance said, swallowing. Can you say why?


    No.


    Fair enough. Thank you for training me.


    Yamish grinned. There is a saying for this, told to me by another from Earth many years ago. Whates around, goes around.


    Thats very philosophical of you.


    Indeed.


    Something scuffed in the alley behind them. Chance spun, bringing his Urumi to bear, but nothing lunged at them. Instead, the corpse of a Soothound copsed in front of him, its throat ripped out.


    Ah. The Old City has given you a gift, Yamish said.


    Chances face paled. You dont mean


    This onees with no obligation, Yamish said. Eat. You must not reject a gift.


    I  wont eating raw meat get me sick or something?


    The Old City would not give a poor gift. Eat.


    There wasnt much room for argument in Yamishs voice. Chance repressed a groan as he carefully knelt and, squeezing his eyes shut, took a bite of the monsters flesh. He chewed quickly and swallowed with a shudder, trying to pretend like the awful meat sliding down his throat was anything but what he knew it to be. Heat wrapped around his heart and stretched through his veins as the flesh slid down into his stomach.


    Very good, Yamish said.


    Chance opened his eyes again, but the words died on his lips. He was lying on his bed in the Whiteheart house, staring up at the ceiling.


    Goddamn it, Chance muttered, rubbing his eyes. What the hell is going on?


    The rancid taste in his throat was still there. It hadnt been a dream. He flung himself out of bed and dashed down the stairs to the kitchen, doubling over the sink and drinking water straight from the faucet. He gargled and spit it out, gagging and gasping for air before going back for more.


    He repeated the process until the taste was just a bad memory and slumped over the sink with a groan.


    <em>Shit, I really hope that doesnt happen often. I really need to get stronger.</em>

 Chapter 13: An entirely normal meal

    Chapter 13: An entirely normal meal


    Chance straightened, wiping his mouth with the back of a hand, and shook his head. Luckily, nobody was in the kitchen. He wasnt exactly in the mood to exin what had happened.


    A small slip of paper on the counter caught Chances eye. He walked over to it, raising his eyebrows as he realized his name was written on the front  and in anguage he could read. A gold coin tumbled out as he unfolded it.


    My weekly stipend, huh? Chance asked, taking the coin. He nced out the window. The sun had started to set, but there was still at least an hour before night started to fall over Gleam.


    Chances stomach rumbled. Somehow, despite his little adventure with Yamish, he was hungry. He walked back upstairs and knocked on Yeos door, but there was no response. After a short pause, he tried Bes room as well to equal sess.


    Shrugging to himself, Chance headed back downstairs and rifled through the icebox. It had been a long time since hed actually cooked anything for himself, but it probably wasnt too difficult.


    Unfortunately, he didnt recognize a single ingredient in it. Even worse, there was no traces of anything that could even resemble milk. Chance shut it with an irritated grumble. Right. Guess Im going out again.


    ***


    The street that Yeo had taken him to eat the previous day was still, unsurprisingly,pletely packed. He shoved his way through the crowd, making his way down the road in search of a new restaurant to try out.


    Part of him wanted to just go back to Hounds, but he couldnt shake the feeling that hed somehow just get pulled into another Ward if he went there. Instead, his eyes alighted on a small sign with a steaming bowl of soup made of red and orange energy glimmering above it.


    Chance stumbled out of the crowd, nearly getting squished by a massive, eight foot man dragging a cart behind him, and pushed through the door. A tiny metal bell chimed to announce his presence.


    This restaurant was even smaller than Hounds. There were six tables lined against the tight walls of a small room, and a small window in the back where he could see into the kitchen. A young, dark haired waitress beside an old wooden podium nced up at him from the book she was reading.


    Table for one?


    Yes, please, Chance said.


    She grabbed a menu and tossed it down on the table behind her. It was hidden behind a small wooden barrier, giving it just a tad more privacy than the others. He sat down, giving her a polite smile. Thank you.


    Let me know when youre ready to order, the waitress replied with a shrug.


    Actually, I was wondering if you had a rmendation, Chance hedged. Im new to the city.


    A mixture of annoyance and amusement yed over her face. Do I look like a menu to you?


    Chance rubbed the back of his head. No. But I cant read the menu.


    She cocked an eyebrow. From the boonies? Or wait  youve got to be off.


    Youve got it, Chance said. I havent quite had a chance to figure out how to read the localnguage.


    Well, its a slow day, so I suppose I dont have anything better to do, the waitress said with a sigh, casting a longing nce at her book before turning back to him. What are you from, anyway?


    Earth. Are there a lot that send people here?


    Dozens, she replied, grabbing the menu from the table. Madeleines is a soup kitchen, by the way. If you dont want soup, go elsewhere.


    I kind of guessed by the sign. Soup would be perfect. Do you have a rmendation?


    Chefs Special, perhaps? she asked, giving him a slight grin. If youre going to ask for my advice, that is.


    If you think its good, sure. Wait  how much is it? I dont want to find out I cant afford it.


    Wow, youre really fresh if youre worried about food prices. Two copper.


    <em>More expensive than Hounds. Probably fine, though. </em>


    Thats fine, so long as youve got change, Chance said.


    She snorted as he handed her his gold coin. After a quick dig through her aprons pockets, she pulled out several silver coins and a handful of copper ones. You should really carry some smaller currency around.


    Didnt have any yet. Sorry, Chance said, pocketing his money.


    The waitress shrugged. She walked over to the kitchen and poked her head through the window. Chefs Special.


    Chance settled down to wait and the waitress returned to her podium, picking her book back up. A few minutester, the bell on the door chimed and two armored men walked into the restaurant.


    They sat down at the booth across from Chance and the waitress wordlessly deposited two menus before them. He couldnt see weapons on either of them, but judging by their outfits, he suspected they were probably just hidden somewhere.


    Chefs Special, the cook called, setting out arge bowl of stew on the counter. The waitress grabbed it and deposited the bowl in front of Chance.


    Enjoy.


    Thanks, Chance replied, picking up a spoon and taking a cautious sip. It was a lot spicier than hed expected, but the broth was delicious and had little chunks of seasoned meat floating inside it. He grinned to himself and dug in.


    Several more people entered and left the restaurant over the course of his meal. All of them looked battle seasoned and, with every passing one, Chance felt more and more out of ce. Just as he was finishing off thest of hisrge meal, the door chimed once more.


    Chance nearly choked on his soup. He scrunched down over his bowl as Be walked in alongside a tall, ck haired man. By some stroke of luck, the wooden barrier managed to keep him hidden from vision and they sat down at the booth directly behind Chance.


    Its been a while since we sat down like this, the man drawled. His voice was smooth and confident, but it dripped with so much conceit that Chance took an immediate dislike to him.


    <em>Hold on, slow down. I didnt like Yeo on first impression either, and Im eavesdropping. This is really none of my business.</em>


    I wish it had been longer, Be replied, her voice ice cold. What do you want, Vex?


    Why, cant old friends stop for a chat? Vex asked. It was fate that we met again.


    You are by far the furthest thing anyone can have from a friend. If I could kill anyone on Centurion with a thought, youd have been rotting in the ground four years ago.


    What a shame, Vex said. s, you should have thought about that before making a contract with me.


    Chance could practically feel Bes hatred radiating from where he sat. He heard her grind her teeth, then sigh. What in the hells do you want, Vex? I wont do anything to help you.


    And yet, here you sit.


    Because I dont have a choice, Be growled. Your cursed magic isnt giving me very much freedom. Trust me, I am doing everything in my power to put the fork in my hand through your eye.


    Do keep trying, Vex said with a small chuckle. Its quite amusing. It sounds like youre regretting some decisions. Do you want to talk about it?


    Eat shit and die, murderer.


    What a mouth, Vex mused. Oh well. I just wanted to check in on my little girl.


    A loud thunk made Chance wince.


    Now <em>that </em>really was impressive, Vex drawled. And what a strike. You managed to put the fork all the way through my hand. I didnt actually think you had enough mental fortitude to resist my will. Noted.


    <em>Never </em>speak of them again, Be hissed, pure fury radiating from her words. Just tell me what you want or kill me.


    Chance nervously nced around at the other patrons, wondering why nobody had noticed Be and Vexs exchange, but there wasnt a single trace of them. The restaurant was empty. He repressed a curse. Hed gotten pulled into a Ward. Again.


    Theres no benefit to killing you now. Not after all the work I did to get you to this point, Vex said with augh. Im just checking in on my investment.


    Dont you have better things to do with your time?


    Please, Be. Im not wasting any time here. Im not even here  this is just a little scrap of my will. Now, I heard you managed to lose your Shikari license. Thats quite impressive, considering everything Ive done for you.


    Vex chuckled, but it cut off midway. There was a clink as he discarded a utensil and rose to his feet, and Chance cringed as the man stepped around the table and stared down at Chance. His eyes were purple voids, devoid of human emotion.


    What have we here? How did you get into my Ward, little rat?


    You brought a Shikari into the ward? Be asked, rising herself and walking over. Sounds like youre losing your touch, Vex. Good. Maybe someone will


    She choked as she caught sight of who was sitting at the table. Chance?


    What a coincidence, Chance said, trying to keep his face cid as his heart thundered in his chest. It didnt take a genius to tell from Be and Vexs conversation that the dead-eyed man was incredibly powerful. Im afraid Im a little busy right now, though. I was eating.


    Answer my question, Vex said, his voice dangerously calm. You were not pulled into this Ward. How did you get in?


    A heavy pressure settled on Chances shoulders, forcing him down into his chair. He gritted his teeth as his bones creaked in protest. I dont know. I was just sitting here. Maybe you should be more careful with how you make your Ward.


    No matter. I must have been distracted. Look what your antagonism causes, Be, Vex said. ck water slithered down his hand and formed into a dagger. Now I have to deal with a witness. Luckily for both of us, that isnt too much trouble.


    This is a trick, Be said, turning to Vex and clenching her hands. Stop ying your damn games, Vex. What, do you just take pleasure in making me watch people I know die?


    Yes, Vex replied. But, to my annoyance, this is not a game.


    Chance desperately tried to move, but his body wouldnt budge. He couldnt even call on his Essence. It was like Vex hadplete dominion over his every motion. With a sigh, Vex raised the dagger.


    A hand materialized around his wrist, its fingers ufortably long. Yamish unfolded in the air behind Vex, in his typical upside down cross-legged position.


    This one is mine, Yamish breathed, his hand tightening around Vexs wrist. Vexs face didnt change as his bones cracked and snapped beneath the floating mans grip.


    Is there a ring hole in my Ward somewhere? Vex asked idly. Why are there so many uninvited visitors today?


    Your Essence is distasteful, Yamish said. And, for a mere shard of a full being, you speak with far too much aplomb.


    Why should I fear what cannot hurt me? Vex asked. You have enough strength to understand my true power. I am a god.


    No, Yamish said. I think you are delusional.


    ck mist poured from his palm, twisting into Vexs body. He stiffened and his eyes twitched in the first show of real emotion that Chance had seen him make. What is this?


    A warning, Yamish replied. I hope your true self is wiser with the other pieces of his soul. This boy is <em>mine</em>. Bought and paid for. Remember it well.


    Vex didnt get to reply. A faint chord rang through the air, like someone had plucked the string of a harp. Then he was gone, leaving no trace of his passage. The pressure vanished from Chances shoulders and drew in a ragged breath.


    Thank you.


    <em>And Im just not going to address the whole mine bit. That feels like a can of worms Ill deal with when he isnt saving my life. </em>


    Another favor, Yamish said, shaking his head and rotating to stand like a normal person. But, perhaps, this one will not be counted. A creature of his ilk should not have been in Gleam. This Ward will drop shortly, so our time is up. Until we meet next. Remember the rules.


    Then Yamish was gone as well, leaving only Chance and Be staring at the air where hed been floating. With a subtle pop, the restaurant was full once more and dull chatter filled the room.


    Be still stood across from Chance, an iprehensible expression on her face. Her mouth worked like she wanted to say something, but she couldnt pull her eyes away from the spot where Vex had been standing a moment before.


    Uh weird seeing you here, Chance said awkwardly.


    How long were you following us? Be asked, finally finding her voice.


    I wasnt following you, Chance corrected. I was eating. You sat down behind me.


    Be nced around, then slid into the booth to sit down beside Chance.


    How much did you hear? she whispered into his ear, keeping her voice low so the other patrons wouldnt overhear them.


    Probably more than I should have, Chance admitted. But I dont really know whats going on. That Vex bloke seems like a terrible person, though.


    Bes shoulders stiffened and her hands balled into fists. Given her previous interactions with him, he half expected her to either hit him or storm out. Instead, she slumped and buried her face in her hands.


    Im sorry.


    What?


    I dont know how you got wrapped up in this, Be muttered, her words muffled by her palms. I did everything I could. I tried so damn hard. Im sorry.


    I dont think I follow, Chance said slowly.


    Be nced around, then shook her head, making her curly hair bounce slightly. This isnt the ce to talk about this. Come with me.

 Chapter 14: Team Building Excercise

    Chapter 14: Team Building Excercise


    She dragged him out of the booth and out the restaurant. They wove through the streets, shoving through dense crowds for several minutes until they burst free into a small park. Multicolored trees ringed it, their trunks shimmering with glistening sap. A small, purpleke sat in the center of it, rippling gently in the wind.


    This ce is pretty deserted. We can talk a little more freely here.


    Be brought Chance over to a bench nestled between two trees and flopped into it. Chance carefully sat down next to her.


    Were you really just there by coincidence? Be asked. You werent following me?


    I just wanted some food and picked a ce that looked good, Chance replied, shivering slightly as a cool breeze brushed past them.


    That is the unluckiest coincidence Ive ever heard of, Be said with a bitterugh. Do you have any idea how many years of work youve managed to undo in a few minutes? I spent so much time


    Bes voice broke and she just slumped back over the bench, craning her neck back to stare up at the trees above them.


    Does this have something to do with why you wanted to work alone?


    Of course it does, Be snapped. She pounded a fist against her knee. I worked so hard to convince Gibson that I was strong enough to be a lone Shikari. I spent so much time training and taking tests to prove that I was strong enough. And then you just stumble along and ruin everything.


    Sorry, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. I didnt mean to. But why are you so determined to work alone?


    Are you stupid? Be asked, sitting up and squinting at him. You saw Vex.


    Yeah, he was a grade A asshole. Chance grimaced. But isnt that more of a reason to get help?


    I forgot youre from Earth. That isnt how things work. When Vex said he was a god, for all intents and purposes, he is. He was a god ranked Shikari many years ago, and I dont even know how powerful hes be now. Anyone next to me could get killed just for being there. I cant afford to have a team. Id just get them killed.


    Thats why you were acting so rude?


    Be shrugged. Its worked so far. As long as nobody gets close to me, Vex cant use them against me.


    Thats a horrible way to live, though. You cant actually enjoy being alone.


    Of course I dont, Be snapped, ring at him. I dont have a choice. And Im not going to share any more about that. Im not trying to get your pity, Chance. Im trying to warn you.


    You saw what happened when he threatened me, Chance said. You arent the only one with a stalker  ah, dont ask about him, though. I dont think I can answer any of your questions.


    I figured as much. That was clearly another incredibly powerful cultivator. Both he and Vex are so far beyond us that we cant evenprehend how strong they are, but that should just make things even easier for you to understand. Really, youre lucky. Vex might not bother you with a benefactor like that, so youve got another chance. Stop spending time around me when you dont have to. Stop offering to include me in things. Just leave me alone. Find a way to get Gibson to put you and Yeo onto a different team. If you dont, youll die.


    And, what? You just keep on living like this?


    Yes. Hows it any of your business how I live?


    Chance shook his head. Nah. That isnt happening  especially now that I know you arent actually as much of an asshole as you pretend to be.


    Be stared at him. Are you dense? You understand that Vex will kill you, right? This isnt a game. Your protector wont always be around.


    Ive died once already. Chance shrugged. And I decided that I was going to live how I wanted to this time around. That includes not letting someone live in misery just because theyre worried some super powerful prick is going to kill anyone they talk to.


    Is that what youre going to tell Vex when he shows up again? He might find that amusing enough to buy you a few breaths.


    If hes as bad as youre saying, then hell try to kill me anyway, Chance pointed out. Id imagine that Im well onto his hit list by now.


    Bes hands tightened. Its possible, and thats my fault. I should have been more aggressive in trying to get you to leave.


    Chance snorted. You can daydream of ways you could have done things better all you want, but that isnt going to change the present. If were both in his sights, you might as well try to get along with me.


    You dont understand, Be said, shaking her head. You think you have the whole story, but you dont.


    Do I need it? I think Im allowed to choose who I spend time with, especially when theyre in a team with me and we both share a psychopath that probably wants to kill us.


    Beughed despite herself. You sound so confident that I can almost believe you. That just isnt how the world works, though.


    My dad used to tell me that the only thing we can control is our view of the world, but that view will shape the world to be what we want. If youre so convinced that the only path for you is in solitude and death, then thats what youre going to get.


    Was he a cultivator?


    No. He was a middle-ss man that died before he got to do all the things he wanted to. But he was happy.


    Be didnt respond for a few seconds.


    You realize that you understand far less of my situation than you think, and I cant tell you any more about it? Be asked, frustration building in her voice. I physically cant. Im bound by an oath connected to my Essence, and those cant be broken. There are fates worth than death, Chance. Give up on the saviorplex and go help someone who you can actually help.


    No way for me to know if I can help you or not if you cant tell me more, Chance said with a shrug. Ive already made my mind up. You arent a bad person, and it isnt right for you to have to pretend to be one.


    Be stared at him. Youre serious, arent you?


    Dead, Chance replied, his lips quirking in a grin. So?


    Bes face twitched and she looked away from him. I cant control what you do. But how are you going to justify bringing Yeo into this as well? Are you going to sign his own death for him?


    Of course not. Ill tell him what happened and let him make his own decision.


    What? Be eximed. You cant!


    Why not? Hes got every right to know, but I highly doubt hes going to care, Chance said. Be, realistically speaking, even if you hated us and we hated you, were still stuck on the same team. So, what do you think would happen if we were doing a job or something and Vex pops up? Is he going to ask us how much we dislike each other before he offs me and Yeo?


    Be looked down at her feet. I dont know. I just hoped


    No more hoping, Chance said, putting a hand on her shoulder. She flinched at the touch, but didnt pull away. You cant live like this. Im new to this world, but it seems like you can do anything you want if you can get strong enough. So, if there are three of us working together, wouldnt that be easier?


    It was nearly a minute before Be finally responded. I  yeah. I think it would be.


    ***


    Now Im convinced, Yeo said, crossing his arms in front of his chest. Chances Essence is some crazy form of mind control.


    Im doing this entirely of my own free will, Be ground out. She sat in Chances chair, and Yeo leaned against the wall, squinting at her.


    Thats what someone who was mind controlled would say, Yeo said. I mean, seriously. What kind of stupid exnation is this? Acting like a massive bitch just to avoid getting close to people  Im not going to buy that.


    Bes face reddened. Yeo burst intoughter.


    Okay, okay. Im sorry, I was pulling your leg. There was no way I was going to let you let you pull this off without messing with you at least a little.


    Be sighed. Somehow, Im already regretting this.


    No taksie-backsies, Yeo said. But seriously, Chance. How did you get yourself wrapped up in something like this the moment I leave you alone?


    I just wanted some soup.


    Figures, Yeo muttered. You do have some control over luck, dont you? Maybe thats whats going on.


    I dont actually think its just luck, Chance said, his thoughts going back to what Yamish had told him. No idea what it actually is, though.


    Well, if we want to perform well at all during the ranking, youre going to have to figure more out about it, Be said, copying Yeos stance and crossing her arms.


    Oh? Youre excited about that now?


    Yeo, if Im going to do this, you better believe that Im going to try my absolute hardest. Did you understand a single thing we told you about what could happen if we dont get powerful?


    Oh, all of it, Yeo said, baring his teeth in a grin. But Ive already got my goal. This changes nothing. I did notice youre shooting for the top. And that means were opponents.


    What happened to the whole team thing? Chance asked, desperately trying to keep everything from falling apart.


    Oh, you can still work together with people youpete with, and were only on a team until were Knights, Yeo said, shing a grin at him. But this means Be is now officially my rival.


    Youre kidding me. What, are you getting your tropes from old shows?


    Yeo cleared his throat. My dad had a lot of stories about those. They might have stuck around.


    Why isnt Chance your rival? Be asked.


    Are you kidding? Hes way too nice. You know. Imagine he beats me at something. There would be no banter! Hed probably apologize.


    Hey!


    Actually, I see it, Be said, nodding.


    What, is this now turn-on-Chance day?


    Call it a team building exercise, Yeo said. His face grew a little more serious and he nodded at the urumi resting by Chances side. Jokes aside, we need to get you into fighting shape.


    I can easily bring him up to speed, Be said. It shouldnt take too long to get himpetent.


    Whoa, there. Id say Im a little more qualified to be the teacher here, between the two of us, Yeo said, tapping his chest with a thumb. Ive been training since I was a little kid. You barely just decided you didnt want to barricade your door.


    Ive been a Shikari for two years, and I operated on my own perfectly well, Be replied, narrowing her eyes. Ive got more experience in the field. Your arrogance is going to either get you or all of us killed.


    <em>At this point, Im not sure if Ive actually improved anything. Somehow, this might actually be worse than where we were at before.</em>


    Only one way to settle this for sure, Yeo said, rising to his feet. Actions speak louder than words.


    Be stood as well. A sparring match. Agreed.


    They swept out of the room and Chace grabbed his urumi before racing after them as they rushed onto the frontwn.


    First blood? Be asked.


    Yeo snorted. That would be boring. Three hits.


    Fine with me, Be said. Chance raised a hand, then lowered it with a sigh. It was probably better to just let them have at each other.

 Chapter 15: Meditation

    Chapter 15: Meditation


    Yeo drew his sickle and chain and spun itzily by his side. Dark water gathered around Bes arm, forming itself into a hand axe.


    You made two of those when you sparred Pete, Yeo observed.


    You arent Pete, Be replied. Water sprayed from beneath her feet and she burst into motion, leaping at the boy.


    Yeo twirled his kusarigama, sending its sharp de whipping down at her. Be twisted out of the way, barely avoiding getting cut, but didnt slow her dash in the slightest. With a flourish, Yeo pulled the sickle back in to strike at Be from a blind spot.


    Water rippled around her, forming a shield and catching the weapon. Yeo vaulted back, dodging a swing from Bes axe, and drew several thin, silver des from a pouch at his side. He whipped them at Be.


    An eruption of water knocked them aside. Yeos fingers twitched and the thin knives shuddered midair, righting themselves and shooting for her again. Most faltered against her water shield, but one slipped through.


    Be somehow managed to shift her weight, turning what should have been a fairly serious stab into a thin line of blood across a shoulder.


    Ha! Yeo crowed. First b


    A tendril of water snapped out from a puddle formed during their fight, striking Yeo in the chin and knocking his head back. He stumbled back, cursing.


    Second blow to me, Be said. And mine was considerably more solid than yours.


    Yeo snapped his arm out, pulling the sickle back to his hands. He spun it, then sent the de flying out once more. Water surged around Be and she dashed in at him. Water sshed and metal scored across the ground as the two danced around the courtyard, trading blows.


    Vaulting back, Yeos kusarigama spun around him, a shimmering ribbon of metal that moved so fast that Chance couldnt even figure out where it ended. Yeo drew a deep breath, then dropped into a low squat and thrust one hand forward.


    The air around him shimmered and he bared his teeth in a grin. Metal Dragon Art: Twin Heads!


    Seriously? You call your techniques out as you use them? Be asked, aghast. Yeo didnt respond. Links of metal leapt from his pouch and trailed up his spinning kusarigama. He pped his hands together and, pulled them apart. A second sickle and chain formed in his off hand, and Yeo sent both of them arcing toward Be.


    If the previous battle had been difficult to follow, the new one was chaos. Metal twisted around Yeo like a storm, moving with such speed that Chance had absolutely no idea how he was avoiding getting tangled up with his own attacks.


    Be was pushed onto the backfoot as Yeo advanced on her, forcing her to use her water defensively and not giving any chances for her to strike back. One of the des arced through the water and scored across her shoulder.


    Going to give up? Yeo called. Thats two to me.


    Her face darkened and Be lifted her hands like aposer. Droplets of water gathered around her, then shot out at Yeo, binding themselves into his clothes and reaching for his arms to try and restrain his movement.


    Despite his situation, Yeo didnt hesitate. He redoubled his attack, pressing Be even harder. And then it was over. One of Yeos spinning chains snapped, leaving an opening in his defenses, and two thin des of ck water scored across his chest, cutting his shirt open.


    Three points, Be said, lowering her hands.


    Yeo looked down at the disintegrating chain on the ground. You broke my technique, but I didn''t see you using one of your own. What kind of Essence do you cultivate? That doesn''t seem like something normal water can do.


    Not water, Be replied with a small smirk. But that was a fairly impressive technique. Not bad.


    Not bad yourself, Yeo said, yanking his sickle back into his hand and returning it to his side. You didnt use any techniques, but your control over your Essence is really good for someone our age. How long have you been cultivating?


    A while.


    Yeo gave her a once over, then shrugged. Fair enough. Ill admit that youre a better cultivator than I am. But if my aura was stronger, you would have lost that. Not a good look for someone whos been doing this for a few years.


    Be crossed her arms, then let them rx and gave him a curt nod. Youre right. I havent fought many other Shikari, and nobody that used techniques like yours. This shouldnt have been so close.


    Both of you looked really impressive from my end, Chance said. Are you really just both starting? It feels like youre masters.


    They both burst intoughter.


    Were nowhere near masters, Be said. We probably only looked this good because we were somewhat close to each other in overall skill. Stronger Shikari would have crushed either of us with one move. Their aura alone might have been enough to take Yeo out.


    Yeo rolled his eyes, but didnt refute it. I never liked auras much. They arent interesting.


    Auras are kind of like your defenses, right? Chance asked.


    Defenses and what keeps your Essence following your desires when its next to someone else.


    I see., Chance said with a nod. Does that mean my gold luck-mist wont work as much against someone with strong aura?


    Precisely, Yeo said. Then again, if you beat them first, no need for an aura.


    Howd that work for you? Be challenged.


    Bah. I looked cooler than you anyway, Yeo said, turning his nose up. He paused for a moment, then grinned sheepishly. But I really should do a little more cultivation so I dont fall too far behind.


    Be nodded. And it might be time for me to start looking at techniques to get a better way to finish enemies off.


    Well, it looks like weve all got things we can improve in, Chance said diplomatically.


    Ill help you train anything with techniques, Yeo said, thrusting a thumb against his chest. Our resident princess can help you with cultivation. That way, youll get the best of both worlds. Hows that sound?


    Princess? Be asked, narrowing her eyes.


    Yeah, because you were too high and mighty to hang with us, Yeo replied with a smug grin. I told you, Im not letting you off as easily as Chance.


    Be sighed and turned away from him. Insufferable. But hes got the right idea. You might as well pick up the things were best at.


    That sounds good to me! Chance said. Can we start now?


    With what? they both asked at once, then red at each other.


    Cultivation, Chance said.


    <em>Yamish already gave me enough to practice with my urumi, but this is like real magic. No offense, Yeo, but magic is way cooler than a sword. </em>


    Yeo scrunched his nose up. Man, you just like cultivation because you didnt have magic on Earth.


    Am I that easy to read? Chance asked, rubbing the back of his head.


    It wasnt a hard guess, Yeo grumbled. Just make sure you work on both things, or youll end up like one of us.


    Enough dying, Be said. She paused, her brow creasing slightly. Chance followed her gaze out into the road, where three people around their age had gathered on the other side of the street.


    Finally noticed us? a tall boy with fluffy brown hair asked, grinning.


    Jake. What are you doing here? Yeos voicecked all of its usual cheer.


    Same as you, bud, Jake replied. Gibson came calling. Theyve got a bunch of new Shikari teams starting up again. Looks like they tossed you in one without the funds for a training area  or do you just enjoy causing a scene everywhere you go?


    Maybe a little bit of both, Yeo said, crossing his arms. What do you want?


    From you? Nothing. Im looking forward to seeing the rankings, though. Have fun ying around.


    Jake raised a hand, chuckling, and walked off with his team. Yeos eyes narrowed at the boys back.


    Im sensing some bad blood, Be observed.


    Just someone from my hometown, Yeo said with a dismissive shrug. Dont worry about him. Weve just got a bit of a rivalry. Chance, if youre going to start training with Be, Im going to go get some cultivation in. Find me whenever you guys stop, kay?


    Sounds good, Chance said, suspecting that they hadnt gotten anywhere near the full story. If Yeo didnt want to talk about it, he wouldnt press  yet. Yeo headed back inside.


    We might as well go into the courtyard behind the house, Be said. Its a little small, but cultivating shouldnt take much room.


    Chance shrugged and followed her through the house and into the small dirt yard behind it, where Yeo and Pete had tested his abilities the previous day.


    So, do you know anything about your Essence yet? Be asked.


    Yep. Its this gold mist stuff, Chance said, bringing it to his fingertips. The familiar burning sensation churned in his chest and ran through his veins, sending a shiver through his body.


    Okay, thats good. You dont know what your Essence actually is, though, right?


    No clue.


    Thats what well start with, then. Do you know how to meditate?


    Uh cross your legs and close your eyes?


    Be rolled her eyes. No. I mean, that can be part of it, but its far from the point. Sit down and make sure yourefortable. I prefer meditating on my knees, but cross-legged works too.


    Chance followed her instructions, sitting down in the same position that Yamish seemed to favor.


    The point of meditation is to clear your mind, and thats mostly done through your breathing, Be instructed, kneeling across from him. By focusing on your breathing, you can clear your mind. Then, once its clear, you gently direct your attention to your Essence and try to discern what you can of it. Thats it. In theory, very simple.


    In practice, not as much? Chance guessed.


    Exactly. The universe is vast. Truly gaining understanding of your Essence is incredibly difficult, and every small step is an enormous struggle. There are dozens of different things thatll stand in your way  like impurities  but in the end, the most important thing you can do to cultivate is meditation.


    Okay. So just focus on my breathing?


    Some people have special techniques that help elerate their cultivation, Be said. Unfortunately, those are pretty expensive. I dont know anything really fancy, but I can tell you what works for me. Slow your breaths down and make them deeper  pretend youre breathing from your chest rather than your throat.


    Chance nodded, changing his breathing to match her instructions.


    Good. Now, try to constrict your throat a little bit. Not enough to be ufortable, but  yeah, thats good, Be nodded as Chance followed her directions once more. Now, close your eyes and picture something serene. I like to use ake. Whenever a thoughtes up, acknowledge it for a moment, letting it run its course, and then let it fall beneath theke. Do that until your mind is empty. Then, once it is, focus on your Essence.


    Okay, Chance said, memorizing everything and repeating it to himself a few times to make sure he hadnt missed a point. Thats it?


    Thats it. Be gave him a wry smile. Trust me, its harder than you think. Especially with impurities, which you should have a lot of given that youre from Earth. The more impurities in your body, the harder itll be to connect with your Essence.


    <em>Man, is everyone from Earth really that shafted? I really owe Bob a drink or something the next time I see him.</em>


    Ill give it a shot, then, Chance said.


    Ill be meditating as well. Try not to bother me unless youre really stuck. Be rxed and closed her eyes, slowing her breathing.

 Chapter 16: Pink elephants

    Chapter 16: Pink elephants


    Chance followed her example, allowing his eyes to shut and regting his breathing. He visualized a glimmering blueke, as still as a mirror. Almost instantly, a thought barraged his mind in the form of a dancing pink elephant.


    His eye twitched.


    <em>What kind of stray thought is this?</em>


    Chance pushed the thought away. There was a moment of stillness, followed by Bobs Magic Cheeto popping into his mind. Chance repressed a sigh. Be was right. Meditating was hard.


    Minutes turned to hours. Chance spent much of the time trying to push the stray thoughts away. They started cropping up slower and slower, but he felt himself growing restless. As tempted as he was to give up and go do anything else, Chance pressed on. He was determined to make at least a little progress before he stopped.


    He lost track of time as he sat there, his chest rising and falling with every slow breath. Eventually, the stray thoughts grew less frequent. The slight ache in his legs from sitting so long started to fade into the background.


    Heat blossomed in his chest, but it wasnt the same aggressive warmth that typically apanied his Essence usage. Instead, it felt like the ebb and flow of the ocean, ebbing in and out.


    Chance focused his thoughts toward his Essence, trying to figure out what it represented.


    <em>Why does it only respond when I thank it? Howe it seems to affect luck? Is it actually just luck?</em>


    A sense of wrongness filled him at thest statement. Without a doubt, Chance knew that his Essence wasnt luck. It was something more. Luck was a part of it, of that much he was certain, but it wasnt the entire coin. It was more like a result. A consequence.


    His thoughts kept drifting back to the appreciation and his fathers words back on earth. Then Yamishs face arose, unbidden, within his mind.


    <em>What goes around,es around. </em>


    Yamish was being literal. The thought struck Chance, nearly knocking him from his peaceful state. Thats what it was?


    <em>Karma?</em>


    <em>***</em>


    Vex was irritated. It wasnt often that the fragments of will that he sent out died, and it was even less often that they died withoutpleting their mission. Worse, it had failed to kill an unranked, weakling child.


    It was not enough to make him angry. The girl was entirely unimportant beyond a mild source of amusement, but Vex did not take failure lightly. His eyes narrowed ever so slightly and he gathered a tiny amount of power to send out and deal with the situation permanently.


    Then he paused. His senses brushed across the Essence permeating his body. It was still. Something was very, very wrong. The wind in the forest around him had stopped, and the trees stood still as if they were holding their breath.


    Vex gathered his power, casting his mind out to locate the powerful presence approaching him. He had more enemies than he could count, but none that would be stupid enough to attack him in his home ground.


    Then a hand fell on his shoulder. Vex shimmered, sshing into a puddle of water and reforming near-instantly a few feet away as he spun to face the intruder. He hadnt even noticed their arrival.


    A man floated, upside-down, in the air, a smile on his eerie face as his body twisted around to stand the proper way. Vexs eyes narrowed.


    The cultivator who protected the boy. You were also using a clone? Who are you?


    The man inclined his head. I was, and I am Yamish. My full presence on Centurion would be problematic. As would yours.


    Vex brushed his senses over the other man, trying to feel his strength, but there was nothing. It was as if he was a nk te  but that couldnt be the case. Nobody could have arrived here without at least a significant amount of power.


    You would go as far as to risk your true body to protect the boy?


    Yamishs smile spread. Risk? No. I have no desire to fight. We have no karma between us.


    Then why have youe?


    You are about to cause me difficulties. I am cultivating the child, Yamish said. And you are about to sever him. I must request that you not.


    Oh? Vex asked. Why? He had no great power. Youve expended a fair amount of power toe here. Thats quite the effort. Is he of your bloodline?


    No, but we are bound by path, Yamish replied. And your actions would cause bad karma between us.


    Why would that Vex stopped mid-sentence. Youre a Karma cultivator?


    I am.


    That exins much, Vex said, his guard rising even more as he put more energy into his aura. But I will not bow to your requests. A slight must be sated. Find another child.


    Yamishs smile turned sad. I thought as much. Your Essence is bitter, like death. I cannot me you for following your nature, so I will speak to you in terms you understand instead.


    He wed the air with a hand, pulling thin bands of golden light from nothingness. With his other hand, he plucked one of the threads.


    You value the life of the girl, Yamish said. She has great Karma with you. But she feels grateful to the boy. There is Karma between them and, thus, between me.


    And? Vex asked, his eyes narrowing.


    I will sever the girl, Yamish said simply. You will not reap the seed that you have nted.


    Threats, Vex said with a chuckle. Some Karma cultivator you are. Killing the girl would negatively impact your cultivation, would it not?


    Death is a natural part of life. To me, the gratitude she shows the boy is an equivalent trade for her life, Yamish said. Any negative impact will be far less than the benefits I gain from harvesting the boy when it is time.


    Vex let out a sharp bark ofughter. I see. Very well, then. I will not bother them unless they directly interfere with my work. That, I assume, would build Karma between us, and you would no longer take action. Correct?


    Correct, Yamish said. I am d that we coulde to an agreement.


    Then he was gone. Vex pressed his lips together. He gave the world a cursory sweep, but he already knew what he would find. There was no sign that Yamish had ever been there. Even the Essence around them didnt seem to recognize his presence.


    Vex let the power he had been gathering fade away. There were other matters that drew his attention, and Yamish unsettled him. The cultivator was deranged. Hed deal with the boy and his experiment shortly, once the Karma cultivator stopped paying such close attention.


    ***


    Heat blossomed in Chances chest, wrapping around his heart with such intensity that he gasped in pain. His eyes snapped open and the world rushed back into focus around him. Faint golden light nketed his skin, already fading away.


    Chance blinked. He shifted, instantly pitching forward and barely catching himself before he hit the ground as pins and needles exploded all throughout his legs. He groaned, shaking them off in a desperate attempt to get feeling back.


    Once he could properly control his body again, he staggered upright. The courtyard was empty, but someone had tossed a nket over his shoulders. He folded it up and wobbled inside. Pete sat in his chair, his eyes closed. One of them cracked open as Chance approached.


    Ah, Chance. Did you have a sessful meditation?


    Very. I think, Chance said. How long was I there?


    Three days.


    Three  what? Chance asked, missing a step. How?


    You likely had a lot of insight to ponder over, Pete replied. Be told me this was your first time meditating, so I dont think either of us expected you to get struck with inspiration already, but your experiences on Earth must have greatly benefited you. Dont get used to massive boosts like this one. Once you get into a more regr schedule, your growth will be steadier but slow.


    So Im stronger now?


    In a way. Do you understand more about your Essence?


    A little, Chance admitted. Its Karma, not luck. But I dont see what that changes.


    It will be subtle for now, but the gains be apparent the more you understand, Pete said, rubbing his chin. But Karma? What a curious Essence. I have not heard anything of Karma cultivators in recent years. Well have to look into it and see what we can find for you.


    Thanks, Chance said. Pete, why am I not hungry or tired? I was just sitting there.


    Cultivation nourishes the body when done properly. You draw energy from your Essence and allow it to sustain you. That is how some powerful cultivators can meditate for weeks at a time. Interruptions during inspiration are one of the worst things you can get. After all, inspiration is a fickle mistress.


    I can see that, Chance said, rolling his shoulders as a twinge ran through is back. Damn. I cant believe its been three days. What have Yeo and Be been up to?


    Mostly cultivating, Pete replied. Theyre both in their rooms right now. You were lighting the courtyard up, which makes it a bit difficult for anyone else to use the courtyard to cultivate. Its to be expected, though.


    Ah, sorry. Chance reddened. I didnt mean to inconvenience anyone.


    Its hardly your fault. Really, you should all have a courtyard of your own, Pete said with a sigh. Perhaps in the future.


    Are we low on money or something? Chance asked. Someone watching Yeo and Be spar implied that they had private courtyards to practice in or something.


    We are, Pete said, looking slightly ashamed of his words. The funding a house gets is directly rted to how sessful its Shikari are. Unfortunately, Be wasnt able to get many jobs on her own, and the ones I did were well, I tend to cause a lot of damage when I work. Repair costs rack up.


    Even with the Wards? Chance asked, taken aback.


    Yes. You usually need to weaken a monster before using a Ward, Pete said. That means you may have to fight it for a little, and Im afraid I dont know the meaning of subtlety.


    Chanceughed. Once we get good enough to get ranked, Ill do my best to bring some money in to renovate. Its the least I can do after everything youve done for me.


    I really havent done much at all, Pete said with a gentleugh. But thank you.


    There were a few seconds of ufortable silence. Then Chance cleared his throat. I actually had a question. Jagg said I couldnt get techniques until I was a Squire, but Yeo and Be both seem to have them. Arent they just Foundlings?


    Its not that you cant learn a technique as a Foundling, its just that itll take you longer than if you were a Squire, and techniques are in high demand. I will look into seeing if I can get anything for Karma, but I wouldnt hold my breath. Your best bet would be to reach Squire rank soon by cultivating as much as you can.

 Chapter 17: Preparations

    Chapter 17: Preparations


    Soft footsteps on the second floor caused them to both nce toward the stairs as Be walked down. A smile crossed her face when she spotted Chance, and he couldnt help but marvel at the stark difference just a few days had made in her attitude.


    On the other end of the coin, faint anger toward Vex and what he had made Be do to try and protect others from him bubbled in Chances heart.


    You woke up! Be eximed. How did it go?


    I know my Essence, Chance replied. Its Karma.


    Huh. Thats interesting, Be mused.


    Pete said the same thing.


    Well have to look into the records and see if theres anything we can get for Chance to reference, Pete said.


    Yeo poked his head out from the second floor. Chance is a Karma cultivator?


    Yeah, Chance said. I hope we didnt interrupt your cultivation or anything.


    Nah. It was boring, Yeo replied, sliding down the banister and forcing Be to step out of the way to avoid getting bowled over. So, now that youre all meditated and bored, you ready to do something more interesting?


    Right to it? Chance asked. I mean, I just finished cultivating. Shouldnt I pause or rest or something first?


    Why? Cultivation is rest if you do it correctly, Yeo said. Itsbat practice that tires you out.


    Chance looked to Be, who gave him a one-shouldered shrug. Hes not wrong. Did you have something else you wanted to do instead?


    I mean, Id love to see more of the city, but given what has happened every single time Ive gone out, I think some more training might not be a bad idea, Chance admitted. One second. Ill go grab my urumi.


    He jogged upstairs, grabbing the de and the bottle of healing pills, then headed back down to his team.


    Right, Yeo said, studying Chance. This will be difficult to practice with, wont it? You need a lot of space to use it properly. Not as much as my kusarigama, but more than most close range weapons. I guess well just work in the front of the Whiteheart house.


    Where everyone can see, Be added, her lips turning down. We need to get better private training areas as soon as we can.


    Once Chance is a little morefortable with his abilities, we can take the ranking exam, Yeo said. Come on. I want to get started.


    They all headed outside. Luckily, Shikari Lane was fairly empty, as it usually seemed to be. It was far from private, but at least there wasnt an enormous crowd watching.


    Before we get to sparring, you should just swing that thing around  carefully, Yeo said. Get a feel for it, you know? Its been a few days since youst got to test it. Maybe just start with seeing how long it is when extended?


    Chance nearly mentioned hed already gotten some use out of it in the alleys before he stopped himself. He cleared his throat and nodded, flicking his wrist. With a series of clicks, the urumi expanded to its full length.


    It was roughly three of his bodylengths when fully released, from Chances estimate. He flicked his wrist again, causing it to whistle back together.


    Youre getting prettyfortable with that, Yeo observed.


    Uh  I guess its just a bit natural to me, Chance said. It feels right.


    <em>Cant really say an upside-down dude made me kill a bunch of monsters for a few hours while I was trying to sleep. I have to give it to Yamish, though. Hunting monsters is a really effective way of training. And I think Im starting to understand why this is the weapon for me. Karma isnt luck, but luck is part of karma. I cant think of many things that can use luck more than an urumi. </em>


    He released the de once more, giving it a twist above his head beforeshing out and striking at a point in the grass. The urumi whistled through the air and whipped down into the dirt with a thunk. It was considerably easier to wield it in the open than it had been in the alleys.


    Damn. That looks cool, Yeo said. Dont you try to go stealing any of my thunder.


    Chanceughed and retracted the urumi by flicking his wrist. He released it several more times, slowly getting a little fancier with the movements and allowing it to spin in the air for longer with every attempt.


    In the open, when he was using it for longer periods of time, it became apparent that the hard part of the urumi wasnt swinging it around  it was keeping track of where the end of the sword-whip was.


    Chance got a little too ambitious with a spin and the end of the de whipped past him, cutting a thin line across his shoulder. He flinched, reflexively snapping the weapon back together before he could lose any more control.


    Close one, Yeo observed, squinting at the cut. Not a bad one, though. Probably not worth wasting any of your healing pills on this.


    Yeah, Chance said, ignoring the slight sting from the cut. He spun the de again, pushing down the tiny tendril of apprehension that reared its head. For the next few hours, that was all he did. Yeo insisted that he needed to get to know how the urumi felt, and Chance was in agreement with him.


    The day came and went, and two weeks followed in a simr manner. Chance spent most of his time practicing with the urumi during the day and meditating at night. Yamish dragged him into the Old City nearly every other day, having him mow through ranks of Soothounds.


    Chance couldnt help but notice that the monsters his strange teacher put him against were growingrger with every visit. Yamish was definitely scaling up the difficulty, but he always seemed to know exactly how much Chance could deal with.


    At the end of every visit, the strange man forced Chance to eat the Old Citys gift. It tasted just as awful each time around, but the training was so effective that he couldntin too much.


    His progress with the urumi elerated greatly. Unfortunately, as Pete had predicted, his cultivation advancements were considerably slower. After his initial burst of inspiration and the discovery of his Essence, he found his meditation sessions to do little more than rx him.


    But, in the end, he was getting stronger, and that was what mattered. Chance spent every waking moment he had training, either in meditation or in the Old City. Despite all the help that Yamish was giving him, Chance was determined to take control of his new life. As wonderous as it was  as long as Yamish could summon him to the Old City at any point, he wasnt truly living for himself.


    On top of that, Chance was more eager to advance his magic than anything else. He still hadnt gotten over the incredible feeling of bending the forces of the universe to his will, and he didnt think he ever would.


    In between his meditation sessions and when Yamish wasnt kidnapping him, he spent his time training with Be and Yeo. He wasnt surprised to find that they were both incredibly far ahead of him, but he was catching up  and rather quickly.


    You sure youre from Earth? Yeo asked, wiping the sweat from his forehead as Chances urumi snapped back to its resting position.


    Yeah, Chance said between gasps for air. The brief sparring session had barely made Yeo start to sweat, but he waspletely winded. Im pretty sure Id remember if I wasnt.


    <em>If I can even call that a sparring session. I just spent five minutes trying to hit Yeo while he dodged literally everything. I feel like Im ying a game against the impossible difficulty AI.</em>


    That was a good performance, Be said from the sidelines, as if reading his thoughts. Considering you only just started learning how to use the urumi, youre doing great. Are you practicing without us or something?


    Chanceughed awkwardly. When I would I get time to do that?


    And I hear you snoring at night when you stop meditating, Yeo added with a grin. And you snore a lot.


    <em>Is Yamish causing that somehow? I dont think I snore. Im pretty sure I dont. I hope.</em>


    Chance blushed. Whoops. I had no idea.


    Its fine, Yeo replied. Reminds me a bit of my old man. He snores a lot too.


    You know, it might not be a bad idea to take the test pretty soon, Be said. We dont need to get ranked super high to start off, but Id really like to start getting some real jobs and making money.


    Not to mention we need to learn how to fight together. Thats an entire skill on its own, Yeo said. What do you think, Chance? Feelingfortable?


    Chance rubbed his chin. I guess. Tests were always really stressful for me, but if you think Im ready, Ill give it a shot.


    What did your test involve? Yeo asked Be. You did take one, right?


    Mine was a bit special, since I was just working on my own. Gibson gave it to me directly. Be cocked her head to the side in thought. It was mostly a demonstration of how well I could fight. We sparred for a little, then he asked me to do several things with my Essence.


    I still cant do much other than make the gold mist, Chance said. You think hell be okay with that?


    Considering it seems to give terrible luck to anyone that isnt using their aura? I think he should be fine, Yeo said. Lots of people be Shikari by focusing on techniques over their cultivation.


    Then lets let Pete know were ready to try to take the test, Chance said, steeling himself. If he was already fighting monsters with Yamish, he was pretty sure he could deal with an introductory exam.


    Its in two days, Pete said, poking his head out of the door. Sorry, I was eavesdropping. I usually am. And, for what its worth, I believe youre all ready as well. The exam is just meant to ensure that youre capable enough to defend yourself from the lowest level threats in the city.


    Great! Yeo eximed. Sounds like we need to get a celebratory dinner.


    Shouldnt those wait until after weve actually aplished something? Be asked.


    Bah. Weve had gramps cooking for the past two weeks. We need to go out and get something fancy, Yeo said. No offense to his cooking. Its good, but going out just feels different, you know?


    Nothing wrong with a little bit of a pep up, Pete said with a chuckle. You might as well go have some fun.


    Im not opposed to it, Chance said. But, I will say that were two for two in running into trouble every time we go into the city.


    <em>Youre</em> two for two, Yeo corrected. Its only happened to me once.


    Ive gone into the city many times without running into difficulty, Be added. It was just the day we ran into each other, really.


    Great, Chance grumbled. Im a bad luck charm.


    More like a luck charm. Yeo pped him on the shoulder and grinned. Excitement is fun, and youre still alive. That means youre good luck!


    Luck or not, Be said, Im getting hungry. Shall we?

 Chapter 18: The first ranking

    Chapter 18: The first ranking


    Leaving the Whiteheart house didnt take long, but settling on a restaurant did. Yeo wanted to return to Hounds, but the others wanted to try something new. Neither she nor Chance really wanted to return to the restaurant theyd run into Vex at, so the three of them eventually settled for a medium sized, slightly fancy location. The windows glimmered with golden light from thenterns within, and Chance could see an assortment of meals on the tables in front of patrons.


    All the tablecloths were white and red checkerboard, and ck iron chandeliers hung from the ceiling, although they werent lit. Dull chatter filled the restaurant, breaking out into the street as they walked in.


    A well-dressed waiter smiled at them and swept three menus from beneath his podium. Will there be any more in your party?


    No. Its just us, Yeo said.


    Splendid.


    The waiter led them to a table in the corner of the room and sat them down. He disappeared for a minute, returning with an iron basket full of bread rolls along with a small tter of butter.


    After setting everything down on the table, the waiter grabbed several sses of water and set them down before them before distributing the menus.


    I will return shortly. Please let me know if theres anything I can do for you, the man said, bowing slightly before returning to the front, where another group had arrived to be seated.


    Nice ce, Chance said, looking around while trying not to look too starstruck. It reminded him of an Italian restaurant from back home, and the steaming breadrolls looked delicious.


    He waited for Yeo and Be to each im one before he took a roll for himself.


    It really is, Yeo agreed. I havent had a chance to eat anywhere like this before. Its so spacious. And colorful.


    Thats right. You arent from Gleam, are you? Be asked. Ive been to this spot once or twice. Its nice. A little pricy, but considering our line of work and the test were about to get done with, more than within our budget.


    Im from a small town called Ruddbrook, Yeo said. We had some restaurants, but nothing like this. Really not much of anything of interest there, to be honest.


    And you still got into Gleam as a fledgling Shikari? Be raised her eyebrows. Thats really pretty impressive.


    You did the same, Yeo pointed out, somewhat reluctantly. He took a bite of bread and chewed for a moment. Actually, you did more. You became a solo Shikari as well. I didnt even know they allowed that kind of thing.


    I had special circumstances, Be said, her eyes darkening. Luckily, Gibson was willing to work with me. At the start, at least. And even with them, I barely managed to convince them to let me stay in Gleam.


    Is it that difficult to get into the city? Chance asked.


    Youve got it easy as a new arrival from Earth. Yeo wiped his mouth with a napkin and shook his head. My parents have been trying to get in for years, but no go. When I got the offer, I barely believed it myself. Gleam only epts the best of the best from application requests.


    I did hear they were loosening restrictions up a little bit as ofte, Be said. Hopefully, the local towns can be pulled under Gleams protection soon.


    What do you mean? Is there a reason Gleam is so selective?


    Bandits and general bad experiences with rogue cultivators. Yeos eyes narrowed. It isnt safe outside the schr-cities. Many small towns, even ones not too far from Gleam, are under constant threat from groups of cultivators that roam around. And, even if you disregard them, there are monsters. Ones farrger and more dangerous than anything in Gleam. Shikari are of equal use inside and outside the city.


    When you say danger


    Lets just say new towns crop up from the ruins of the old ones pretty frequently, Yeo said. Most powerful Shikari dont want to hang around a town, where there arent many resources and the danger is so high, so they migrate to one of the schr-cities like Gleam. If someone who migrates gets really strong, the schr-city asionally puts the area under its protection as a down payment to keep the Shikari around.


    Thats awful, Chance said.


    Well, thats what were training for, Be said. Once we get higher ranked, many of our jobs will be outside of Gleam. Nobody wants the towns to get destroyed. There are just too many monsters and bandits outside the walls.


    Enough of this topic, Yeo said. Were supposed to be enjoying this. Its a celebratory dinner, after all. Think about something happier.


    Be and Chance exchanged a quick nce, then nodded. The waiter returned shortly after, getting their orders and setting off to the kitchen to get them started.


    Their meal was fantastic, but Yeos words stuck with Chance. Part of him had to wonder just how much of Yeos desire to be famous was actually true, and how much was just the boy wanting to be strong enough to ensure the protection of his vige.


    The rest of the night passed without incident, as did the following day. Mercifully, Yamish did note to collect Chance that night or the next. When the sun dawned on the day of the ranking exam, Chance awoke feeling equal parts refreshed and nervous.


    Pete gathered them all at the front of the house an hour after the sun rose, poking through the cracks of the towering skyscrapers of Gleam.


    Youve all got more than enough training to ace this, Pete said. He nced at Be, then chuckled. Oh, who am I kidding. One of you has already passed it, and I have no doubt that everyone will being home today with a smile on their face. Really, your goal shouldnt be to pass. You should see how highly ranked you can get.


    Shoot for the moon, huh? Yeo asked. He smirked confidently. Well, that was my n anyway. Im going to crush anyone that tries to stand in my way.


    Dont forget that this is mostly a team exam, Be pointed out. Weve barely done any team exercises. Make sure not to do something stupid that puts the rest of us at risk.


    I wont, Yeo promised. We have to hit the top together  so I can crush both of you once were there.


    Chance and Be rolled their eyes. Before they could say anything else, there was a curt knock on the door. Pete opened it to reveal a balding, heavily muscled man.


    Team Whiteheart, the man read off a paper, ncing up at them. Signed up for the ranking exam and tournament today?


    They are, Pete said.


    Good, the man said. My name is Johnathan. Ill be your teams proctor for today. Follow me.


    They waved to Pete, then followed Johnathan down Shikari Lane and toward the training fields. Johnathan pushed the metal gate open and led them up to an open area.


    If you pass the exam today, youll be qualified to start taking jobs, Johnathan said, still reading off his paper. I am the sole judge of your sess. If you have anyints with my judging methods, you may take them up with Gibson. Todays exam will have two parts. The first will determine your ability as a team, and the second will be the individual rankings. Do you have any questions so far?


    He paused a moment, then continued.


    In that case, we will begin by identifying your abilities. Please identify them, along with your names.


    I use the Essence of Metal, Yeo said. And my name is Yeo.


    Johnathan scribbled on the paper with a quill, then looked back up at Be.


    Undisclosed Essence, and my name is Be.


    Chance hid his surprise. Hed been hoping to find out what her Essence was, but evidently that was an eptable answer as Johnathan didnt even blink. He just wrote something on the paper one more time before turning to Chance.


    Im Chance. I cultivate Karma.


    Johnathan paused for a moment before writing onest thing and lowering the paper. Understood. As this is your first exam, I will exin some of the rules. In this exercise, I will be taking on the role of a powerful opponent. You will work together to attempt to subdue me.


    How much force can we use? Yeo asked.


    As much as you can bring to bear, unless you have cause to believe that your abilities have not been reported urately and you pose a threat to me. I am a Knight ranked Shikari, Johnathan said,pletely serious. Do you believe this may be the case?


    No, probably not, Yeo admitted. Sorry. Please continue.


    I have a question, actually, Chance put in. Why are we fighting?


    Johnathan blinked. Im sorry? This is the exam.


    I should rify. Youre taking the role of a powerful opponent, right? Wouldnt the wisest call in situations like this to be retreat?


    To Chances surprise, the proctors face wrinkled with the faintest beginnings of a grin. Not a bad question at all. Yes, that is a very valid strategy in many scenarios. Your life is more important than defeating a random monster. However, for the purpose of this exam, assume that retreat is not an option.


    Okay. What about bargaining?


    Johnathan paused. Bargaining? With a monster?


    They could be intelligent, right? If a monster is trying to attack something that were trying to protect and its smart enough tomunicate with, wouldnt the best case scenario be if we could get it to leave before it could hurt someone?


    Johnathans forehead wrinkled. I  no. I mean, yes, but thats going to be a pretty rare scenario. Dont try to bargain with the monsters. Just kill them. Youre a Shikari, not a negotiator.


    Lets just get this on with, yeah? Yeo asked, pulling his kusarigama from his side and giving it azy twirl. Not to say your questions areme, Chance. But they are.

 Chapter 19: The first test

    Chapter 19: The first test


    The proctor chuckled and took a few steps back into the training arena. Earth gathered around his feet and wormed up his body, forming into rugged armor around him. In seconds, he waspletely covered.


    This part of the exam will end when all of you are rendered unable to move or surrender, Johnathan said. Are you prepared?


    Chance opened his mouth to ask another question, then closed it when Be and Yeo shot res in his direction. He gave them a sheepish grin and walked into the dirt arena with his teammates, lowering his urumi in a ready position.


    Were good, Yeo said. Hope youre ready to get your ass kicked.


    Begin.


    Be leapt forward, ck water slithering down her arms and forming into arge axe. She brought it down in a powerful swing at Johnathans shoulder. Earth rippled around the proctors feet and a pir of stone erupted from the ground, mming into Bes stomach and sending her flying into the air.


    Chance whipped his wrist to the side and the urumi extended with a dozen rapidfire clicks. The snakelike de shot out and bit into Johnathans shoulder, cutting a few inches into the stone beforeing to a stop.


    The ground beneath Chance rumbled. Yeo thrust his shoulder into him, knocking Chance to the side as a pir of earth nearlyunched him. He tumbled across the ground, losing his grip on the urumi, and leapt to his feet just as Be came crashing down on top of Johnathan, leading with her axe.


    Stone cracked and Johnathan staggered. He spun, catching Be in the side with the back of his hand andunching her across the small arena. She hit the ground, skidding for a foot before mming into the wall with a grunt. Yeo flicked his sickle out and it whipped around the proctor, growing faster with every loop as it tightened and bound the man.


    Does restraining you count as a win? Yeo asked.


    Johnathan raised a hand and grabbed the metal links. There was a loud crack and Yeos weapon went ck as the older man literally tore it apart. He flexed his arms and the chains binding him popped and snapped, falling to pieces.


    Yes, Johnathan said. Provided youve actually restrained me.


    Well, that was rude, Yeo said, pulling a second kusarigama from his pouch. Chance had no idea how he fit the weapon in there, but now wasnt the time to ask. You broke my toy. Luckily, Ive got another.


    While Yeo had him distracted, Chance edged towards his urumi. Johnathan nced in his direction and extended a hand. The ground beneath Chances feet rippled and he started to sink into it. Cursing, he flung himself into a roll and grabbed the hilt of his weapon, retracting it with a snap.


    A bolt of ck water leapt from Bes hands and sshed into Johnathans armor, soaking into the dirt. The proctor nced in her direction, nearly catching a massive watery de to the face.


    At thest second, a wall of earth erupted from the ground before him and blocked the Essence. He let it fall, then shifted his stance. Be took a step forward and tripped, falling t on her face as stones bound around her legs.


    A little luck might be good, Yeo yelled. Metal Dragon Art: Twin Heads!


    He extended his hand toward the shattered remains of his first kusarigama, narrowing his eyes in concentration. The fragments shuddered, then leapt to hismand, reforming into chain links and attaching themselves back to the sickle. Yeo pulled the de back, spinning the second weapon in his other hand, then sent them both flying at Johnathan.


    Essence of Metal, eh? Johnathan asked, an earthen shield forming on his left hand. He batted both sickles away. Not used to seeing it used like this. Wouldnt making yourself into an armored warrior like I do with my earth be better?


    You talk a lot for someone supposed to be testing us, Yeo growled, pulling his weapons back and twirling them at his sides.


    Dont you worry. Johnathan raised his shield, blocking Bes axe, then threw her to the side. She spun midair,nding on her feet and skidding across the ground. I dont mean to insult you, but youre all far from a threat. Im not trying to kill you  Im gauging your abilities. Well see how you deal with stress under a real attack shortly. Now, I trust youve got something more to show me?


    Heat welled around Chances heart and spread through his body. He drew on his Essence, bringing golden mist to his fingers sending out a silent thanks. The mist leapt, tiny streamers of it wrapping around the proctors legs.


    Johnathan nced down at it just as Be threw her axe, and the brief distraction proved enough for it to fly past his defenses and m into the mans chest. Stone shattered and he tripped with a curse.


    Chance sent his urumi whistling out and it struck Johnathan in the side, piercing into his armor but failing to prate it. He pulled the de back before the proctor could grab onto it, watching Johnathan warily as stones pushed the man back to his feet.


    Havent seen that before, Johnathan rumbled. You wormed your way past my Aura. Interesting. Try it again.


    Chance didnt wait for him to ask again. He sent gold energy toward Johnathan in a faint wave. As it neared him, it sizzled and vanished like vapor. Johnathan chuckled at Chances shocked expression.


    Dirt gathered around Johnathans hand, condensing into a hard ball. He threw it at Chance, far too fast for him to dodge. Water leapt before him an instant before the ball struck. It plowed through the barrier and struck Chance in the stomach, but enough of its momentum had been stopped that it only knocked the air from his lungs instead of breaking several ribs.


    Yeoshed at him with both of his kusarigama. Johnathan dropped his shield and grabbed the sickles as they flew through the air. Right then. I think Ive got a grasp of all of you.


    With a roar, he yanked the metal chains, pulling Yeo off bnce. Johnathan thundered for the boy. Water whipped at his feet, trying to trip him up, but the proctor plowed through it like nothing.


    Yeo somersaulted out of the way of the mans first blow, but Johnathan had nearly doubled in speed. The mans next strike caught him in the chest, tossing him out of the ring. Be darted at the proctor and Chance sent his urumi out once more.


    The earth beneath Beunched her to the side  directly into the path of Chances de. He yanked it back, causing the metal whip sword to score across the ground harmlessly. Johnathan grabbed Be, thenunched her at Chance like a bowling ball.


    He dove to the side, but it wasnt fast enough. Be mmed into him and they both skidded out of the ring unceremoniously, ending in a heap next to Yeo.


    Johnathan brushed his hands off, his dirt armor sloughing off his body as he approached them. There were a few small cuts on his body, but they were somehow already starting to heal right before their eyes. Well then. That was that.


    Yeo clenched his hands, then forced them open and let out a terse huff. That was hardly a fair fight.


    It was never supposed to be one, Johnathan said, shaking his head. You missed the point. Now, are you going toin, or do you want to hear my assessment?


    Were listening, Chance said with a groan as Be rolled off him. He could have sworn that getting hit so hard should have broken <em>something, </em>but both he and Be didnt look much more than bruised.


    Well start with Yeo, Johnathan said, turning to the ck-haired boy. Youre cocky. Your techniques are overly shy and dont do enough damage for the effort you go through with them. Not to mention you wasted time actually calling your technique out. On top of that, while Im no Metal cultivator, Im pretty sure that its meant to be hard and unyielding. Youre treating it like Air or something.


    Yeo set his jaw and his eyes narrowed. He said nothing, and Johnathan watched his expression for a few seconds before turning to Be.


    Youre all over the ce. I asionally saw you do something that I would attribute to experience, but then youd blunder it all up. Something tells me youre a solo fighter. Fix that.


    Be started to nod, but Johnathan wasnt done.


    On top of that, theres one major w I saw with your fighting style. The boys both had a clear purpose behind their moves. Even though theyre far from masters of their Essence, they both had direction. You feel like youre copying someone elses moves rather than using your own. Keep that up, and youll never advance past Foundling.


    Johnathans gaze fell on Chance. The boy swallowed.


    Youre new. Your strikes dont have any Essence real strength behind them. Despitending several blows on my armor, nothing you did went through. You need to integrate your Essence with your fighting style more. Relying on your opponents aura being too weak isnt going to get you very far. On top of that, your movements are amateurish. Its very clear that youre new.


    Im sure you feel thrilled about stomping a bunch of unranked Shikari, Yeo said, crossing his arms.


    Johnathan burst intoughter. Oh, youre apetitive one. Hate losing, do you? Get used to it, boy. You arent the biggest fish in the pond. Now shut up  I wasnt done talking.


    Yeos eyes narrowed, but he closed his mouth with a snap.


    Your fighting style is overly shy, but if you cultivated more and put more Essence into your strikes, simr to Chance, theyd likely do a fair amount of damage. Its difficult to keep track of those sickles as they fly around, Johnathan said, tapping his chin. And your technique was surprisingly adequate for someone of your level. Some practice, tighten your moves up a little, and cultivate more  you might get decent.


    Johnathan pointed at Be. Your progress in cultivation is much farther along its path than I would have expected. If you actually put yourself into it rather than just using some pale mimicries of what are clearly someone elses techniques, youd be a powerful cultivator.


    He turned his gaze back to Chance. And, as for you, your biggest issue is inexperience. You were asking some very important questions before we started, and your Essence has a lot of potential. Ive never fought something like it  not to mention your control over that whip sword is fairly decent for someone who only just started using it.


    They all stared at him, baffled.


    Now Im done, Johnathan said.


    So we passed? Yeo asked.


    Johnathan snorted. Yes. This was only to determine if you have the ability to keep yourselves alive in the most basic of situations. Id say youve got that, so consider yourselves all Foundling ranked Shikari from this point on. Your teamwork needs some improvement, though.


    They all grinned at each other. Chance walked back to the practice field and grabbed his urumi from the ground where it had fallen when hed been hit.


    Dont get too excited, Johnathan said. Youll need your wits about you for the individual rankings. You might have made the bare minimum, but I trust you want to shoot for more than that.


    You better believe it, Yeo said, thrusting his chin out. And well see just how inefficient my moves are against other people my age. Where do we go for the next part of the exam?


    Theres around two hours until it starts, Johnathan replied. Itll take ce on the other side of the training yard. Dont bete, but youre free to do whatever you want until it starts. Ill be letting Gibson know your updated rankings.

 Chapter 20: Preliminary ranking

    Chapter 20: Preliminary ranking


    He raised a hand and strode away, leaving them staring at his back. Yeo harrumphed once the proctor was out of range.


    I thought wed somehow managed to fail.


    So did I, Chance said with an anxious chuckle. He really had me going for a moment. Thank god we passed.


    Which one? Yeo asked.


    Huh?


    You said thank god.


    Oh  not the ones from here, Chance said. Its just a saying from Ear  wait. You know that.


    Yeo snickered. Had you for a moment, though. More importantly, do we even want to bother going somewhere while we wait for the individual rankings? Id rather just stick around.


    Same, Chance said. Im too anxious to do anything else to be honest.


    The individual rankings dont matter, Be said, her face pensive. All that mattered was the exam we just passed. Were all a Shikari team now. The numbers are just ego.


    Theyre more than ego. Theyre proof that we put in hard work and trained to get where we are. Yeo crossed his arms. And Ive heard people say that the best Shikari in every rank division are given ess to special jobs.


    Be shrugged. I havent heard anything about that. Does it matter? Well have ess to all the jobs we need.


    Of course it matters. Besides, how many people did you even talk to before us? I dont think anything <em>youve </em>failed to hear is going to count for much.


    Be pursed her lips, then inclined her head slightly. Okay, I cant argue with that too much.


    In the end, Im sure well all do our best, Chance said. And, like Be said, we got the most important thing already. Why dont we just go over to the next testing arena and wait?


    The others agreed, and so they went. The field was fairly uniform, and all the training areas were roughly the same  arge patch of dirt enclosed by walls to ensure that fights didnt spill over into each other.


    Several of the fields were being used by older Shikari, but it only took them a short while to find out where the next ranking exam was taking ce. Arge section of the training arenas had been sectioned off, and several armored men sat on the benches near it, talking amongst themselves.


    Chance and the others approached them, slowing to a stop as a few gazes turned in their direction.


    Were here for the ranking exams, Chance said. Is this the right ce?


    It is, a ck haired man with a salt and pepper colored beard said, not bothering to rise from his seat on the bench. You Foundlings?


    As of a few minutes ago, Yeo said. They all flinched as a loud explosion echoed through the field and a Shikari staggered out of one of the arenas, smoking. Several men ran over to him.


    Congrattions, the man said, not perturbed in the slightest. Youre early. Good quality to have, that. Im Drake. Ill be one of the proctors for the localized exam.


    Wait, localized? Be asked, turning away from the scene behind them and tilting her head to the side. Whats that mean?


    Its not realistic to bring in every single Foundling Shikari whenever we have a ranking exam, Drake exined, leaning his chin on a palm. Can you imagine that? Every few weeks, dragging all of you little buggers into a stadium. It would be chaos  not to mention a huge waste of time.


    Thats a good point, Chance said. How many Shikari are there?


    No damn clue. Ask Gibson, but theres a lot, Drake said. One of the men beside him nodded.


    Too damn many, he muttered.


    Thus, localized, Drake continued. Youll be going against several teams rather than the whole lot, and well give you a rough estimation of you rank. You can get a more detailed ranking once you participate in the periodic tournaments that anyone can join  theres one in a few months, I believe.


    Yeo pursed his lips in annoyance. I guess I see why youd do that, but its a bit disappointing. So this basically just determines where we start in the real tournament?


    Exactly, Drake said, chucking at the expression on Yeos face. Dont look so put out. This is a great opportunity to test yourself against some of your fellows and see what they have to offer. But  no offense meant  Im off duty right now. Theres a good bit until this starts, so Im going to be rxing until then. Feel free to wander around.


    He leaned back and put his hands behind his head, ending the conversation. The Whiteheart team made their way over to another bench and sat down, content to wait. Despite their sess, Chance felt like a ck hole had formed in his stomach, causing everything to twist in around it.


    Leaning back against the bench, Chance closed his eyes and focused on controlling his breathing, making it slower and deeper. He pictured a faint golden circle surrounding him, blocking away anything that could bring him harm. It wasnt exactly meditation, nor was it cultivation, but it seemed to do the trick and help get his nerves under a little more control. It had worked for years on earth, particrly after his parents had been killed.


    Time slipped by, and dull chatter started to build around them as more Foundling groups and contestants started to arrive. Chance let his eyes opened as the voices grew louder. Drake and his group of proctors had left their bench and now stood in front of the sectioned off training arenas.


    His eyes narrowed as he spotted Jake, the boy from Yeos hometown, and his team lounging on the ground near the arenas. A quick nce at Yeo showed that the boy was very pointedly not looking in their direction.


    Chance considered asking him about it, but dismissed the idea. If Yeo wanted to talk, he would. Distracting him right before the exams probably wasnt a good idea. Be noticed his pensive expression and raised an eyebrow. Chance gave her a small shrug.


    Just feeling the nerves a little, Chance said. Ive never done anything like this. I always hated tests in school, and this is like that on another level.


    My dad told me about those. Yeo grimaced and adjusted his seat on the bench, trying to get morefortable. Sitting around and writing on paper for hours on end sounds so boring. Im so d were doing something more interesting than that. Our school just taught us what we needed to know. If we didnt remember, that was our problem.


    Well, I suppose thats one way to go about it.


    Yeo opened his mouth, but paused as Drake pped his hands loudly. The conversations going on all around them ground to a halt as everyone turned toward him. From Chances count, there were somewhere around twenty to thirty other Shikari their age in the area.


    Times just bout up. Drake covered a yawn with the back of his hand and shook his head. Ive got some stuff to do, and Im sure youre all eager to start beating each other up, so lets get this rolling, shall we?


    He looked around, as if waiting for something. Everyone stared at him expectantly, and Drake let out a heavy sigh.


    Man, the excitement is deafening. Suit yourselves. For those of you who dont know me yet, my name is Drake. Ill be the lead proctor for the individual ranking exam. You do what I say. If you dont, things go poorly for you  and I mean that. If I say stop and youre midair, you better freeze and fall like a rock. Understood?


    A murmur of understanding ran through the cluster of teens. Drake gave them a satisfied nod.


    Good. In that case, lets have ourselves a little fun. The rules are simple. Fight until I stop you, or until your opponent surrenders. Leaving the arena for any reason also counts as a loss. You may use anything you have on you.


    A wiry boy with dirty blonde hair raised his hand. Drake inclined his head toward him.


    Can we use magical weapons?


    Your proctor will check the weapon before your fight. Any magical weapons of Foundling rank or lower are permitted. Any further questions?


    Nobody said anything.


    Fantastic. Drake pulled a roll of paper out of a pocket and unfurled it. The other proctors all did the same. In my arena, well be starting with Be and Anton.


    The other proctors all started calling names out as well, but Chance didnt hear his or Yeos called. He went to wish Be good luck, but shed already walked up to stand before Drake.


    The wiry boy who had asked about magical weapons joined her, and Drake gestured for them to walk out onto the dirt. Chance sat down in front of the arena to watch Bes fight and Anton handed Drake a sword. The proctor looked over it, then nodded and returned it to the boy. He and Be both took up positions on either end of the dirt circle.


    Begin, Drake said without an ounce of fanfare.


    mes erupted along the de in Antons hand. Chance winced in sympathy. Of all the weapons he could have chosen to fight her, a fire based one was probably the worst. His prediction was proven right when  not even a secondter  a powerful wall of water mmed into Anton, soaking the boy and causing his weapon to sputter like a candle in the wind.


    Bes foot dug into the ground and sheunched forward, water gathering around her hand. Anton raised his weapon defensively, his eyes going wide, but he wasnt fast enough to stop her fist from driving straight into his stomach.


    Anton flew back and skidded across the edge of the arena, rolling to a bewildered stop at another boys feet.


    Thats got to be a record, Drake said. Be wins.


    What! But she didnt


    Antons words froze in his throat as Drakes eyes narrowed. His ming de snuffed out and he slunk away without another word. The head proctor called up two more students and dismissed Be from the field.


    That was awesome! Chance eximed.


    Bes cheeks reddened slightly. It really wasnt. I just surprised him.


    Have you done this before? Yeo asked. I mean, if youve been a Shikari for a while


    No. I never participated in any ranking battles, Be said ufortably. Im not used to this kind of thing. I liked to stay out of sight, you know? This is I dont know. I just feels wrong.


    No need to get stage fright, Yeo said. Ill show you up, so fear not. The spotlight will be on yours truly.


    Be rolled her eyes. Every time you open your mouth, part of me wishes Id stayed a shut-in.


    Impossible. Everyone loves my charming wit and beautiful face. I mean, look at me. I should be a model.


    Do they have those here? Chance asked.


    What, models? Yeo thrust a thumb against his chest. Youre looking at one. Of course they do.


    They dont, Be said through a sigh. Not in the purposes I think Yeo is implying, at least.


    Yeo, Timothy. Youre up, a proctor whose name Chance didnt know called.


    Watch this, Chance. Im gonna show you another one of my special moves. Yeo leapt to his feet and sauntered over to the arena, along with a tall, thin boy carrying a bow.


    I hope he wins, Chance said under his breath. Hed be crushed if he doesnt.


    Would be kind of funny if he gotst ce, Be muttered. She caught Chances look and cleared her throat. Im sure hell be fine.

 Chapter 21: Oops

    Chapter 21: Oops


    The twobatants took their ces on either end of the arena. Yeo twirled his kusarigama at his side, and Timothy drew an arrow and strung it, keeping the bow pointed at the ground.


    Begin, the proctor said.


    To Chances surprise, both Yeo and Timothy bowed to each other. He took a second to look at the other fights, surprised to realize that many of the other students were also exchanging bows before they started.


    Be noticed the same thing and winced. Oh. Oops.


    Oops, Chance agreed, feeling a sh of pity for the boy. That exined Antons outburst at the end of the fight.


    In the arena, Yeo and Timothy straightened. An arrow shot across the arena, but Yeo bobbed out of the way and it thunked harmlessly into the wood behind him.


    Metal Dragon Art: Twin Heads! Yeo called, twirling out of the way of another arrow as a second kusarigama joined his dance. Chance and Be both suppressed a groan. He <em>really </em>needed to stop calling out his abilities.


    Yeo flicked both of the sickles through the air in opposite directions. They arced out, whipping past Timothy with blinding speed. The weapons shot past him,pletely missing. The boy smirked, nocking another arrow. White energy gathered around its tip and he released it.


    Metal clinked and Yeo ducked. The arrow drilled into the barrier behind him with a loud crack and a sh of white light. Before Timothy could nock another, Yeo yanked on the chains of his sickles.


    The weapons whipped back toward him through the air from behind the boy, making a wide arc around Timothy in either direction. The chains hit him and the sickles twirled around him, whipping faster with every orbit. In an instant, Timothys hands were yanked down to his sides and he was bound in metal.


    Yeo yanked on the chains, pulling Timothy off bnce, then charged the boy and jumped into the air, turning sideways and driving both of his legs into his chest. Timothy, unable to move, flew back and skidded helplessly across the edge of the arena.


    Yeo wins, the proctor called as Yeo dropped into a roll and came to his feet, dropping into a bow.


    Great job! Chance called. Yeo gave him a thumbs up and his weapons unraveled from around Timothy, one returning to his side while the other turned back into metal filings that slipped into his pouch.


    Now the pressures really on, Yeo said when he got back, sitting down beside them. Both Be and I have won, so you have to as well.


    Chance groaned. You realize that only makes this worse, right?


    Wont be worse if you win.


    You are, without a doubt, horrible at motivation, Be informed Yeo.


    Oh? Youre better, then?


    Be opened her mouth, then snapped it shut. No. Not really.


    They watched several more fights go by. Every passing round where he wasnt called up only made his anxiety grow until, almost mercifully, Drake called his name.


    Chance, Meredith. Youre up.


    Go get em! Yeo said, giving him a friendly shove as he rose.


    Chance nodded, his heart beating too fast to even look back, and walked up to Drakes arena. A short girl carrying two daggers walked over as well. She gave him a once over, then gave him a tight grin as they took their positions in the arena.


    Begin! Drake called.


    Recalling Yeos movement, Chance bowed. There was a loud thunk from behind him as a dagger thunked into the wood. His movement had just barely been fast enough to keep him from being impaled by the thrown weapon.


    Yeo booed from the sidelines, but Chance didnt have the luxury to pay him any more attention. Meredith dashed at him, drawing another dagger from a hidden holster at her side. He flicked his wrist and the urumished out.


    Meredith missed a step and twisted out of the way, unprepared for the weapon. It carved across her side, spraying blood across the ground, and Chance yanked it back.


    Shit, sorry!


    The girl threw a dagger at him and he dove out of the way, barely dodging it. He kept a hold on his urumi and flicked his wrist as he came back up, drawing the weapon back to its resting position with a series of clicks.


    Dont apologize, idiot! Yeo yelled. Get her!


    Nomentary from the sidelines, Drake drawled.


    Meredith red at Chance. Her hair rippled as the wind picked up around her, turning into whisps of white Essence. Chance channeled his own magic, bringing the golden mist to his fingertips and casting it toward her.


    His powers slipped right past the churning white air and sunk into her right as she flung a dagger at him. It blurred through the air, carried by the wind and moving easily twice as fast as her previous attacks, but nged harmlessly off the t of Chances de.


    Then Chance tripped over his own feet. He dropped into a roll at thest second,ing up as two more daggers thunked into the ground where hed been. Merediths eye twitched.


    Chance whipped his urumi toward her, but this time, she was ready. The wind condensed at her side, forming a shield of churning air. The urumi struck it and rebounded into the dirt. Chance yanked the de back just as Meredith raised her hand to fling another empowered dagger at him.


    Her motion put her hand just in front of the urumis path for an instant  just long enough for it to score across the back of her hand. She cursed, fumbling the dagger and giving Chance enough time to send the sword-whip flying toward her once more.


    Meredith deflected it with a shield of air once more. The de thunked into one of the wooden barriers with a crunch. Chance pulled on it, but it was stuck. His opponent grinned, lining up another dagger as Chance cursed, giving the de a harder tug.


    It yanked a pole out of the ground and whipped back toward him. Chance ducked and the de flew harmlessly over his head. The pole, still attached to his urumi, struck Meredith on the back of her head as it slithered back toward him.


    She crumpled to the ground in a heap and the pole finally popped off his weapon, which retracted back into his hand, leaving him staring at her, baffled.


    Drake hid a snort ofughter and knelt beside Meredith. I  well, thats a win for Chance.


    He took a pill out of a vial at his hip and opened the girls mouth, pushing it in before rising once more. Her eyes snapped open and she sat up with a gasp, her wounds already sealing shut.


    Get off the arena, Drake said.


    Chance wasnt going to make him say that twice. He headed back to his team, sitting down on the bench beside them while Yeo did a considerably worse job than Drake at concealing his amusement  and that wasnt saying much at all.


    That was great, Yeo said mirthfully. Ive never seen someone get taken out with a pole.


    On the field, Drake grabbed the pole in question and trudged over to the dirt where it belonged, thrusting it back into ce. He shook his head and walked back into ce, calling two more students up.


    Funny or not, you won, Be said with an approving nod. Thats what matters in the end.


    Thanks, Chance said. So what now? Do we fight more?


    No clue, Yeo replied, sounding distracted. Its not like weve done this before. Just wait, I guess.


    His eyes were locked on one of the other arenas. Chance followed his gaze to see Jake squaring off against another boy. He was covered seamless metal armor that conformed to his flesh like a jumpsuit, and held arge hammer in his hands.


    Jakeszy swings kept his opponent pedaling backward, but he moved with just enough speed to keep him from fighting back. Whenever the other boy managed to get some space, Jake elerated, forcing his opponent to retreat once more.


    The battle ended when one of Jakes swings was just a little faster than the other boy. It caught him in the arm, crunching into flesh and bone. Jake blurred, mming the weapon into the boys chest andunching him from the arena.


    A proctor rushed over, pushing a healing pill into the injured Shikaris mouth. Jake walked off the arena after getting the okay from the older man. He nced in Yeos direction, smirking when he caught him watching.


    Thats how a real Metal cultivator should fight, Jake said as he passed them.


    Bugger off, Yeo replied. I dont care how you fight. Ive got my own way.


    Jake paused, cocking an eyebrow. That pathetic little dance you do can hardly be called fighting. I suppose well get to see shortly, wont we? Better make sure you make it to fight me, or youre going to look <em>really </em>bad.


    He strode off, chuckling. Yeos eyes narrowed, then he let out a forcedugh and leaned back in the bench. Stuck up prick.


    Chance cleared his throat, electing to say nothing. He was starting to get a general picture of why Yeo didnt like Jake, and the other boys cocky attitude didnt help at all. With some amusement, Chance realized that Jake was exactly what hed thought Yeo would be like when theyd first met.


    I saw her fight already, Be said, breaking the awkward silence and gesturing to one of the arenas. I guess it makes sense. I dont see how theyd get a very good ranking of us without having multiple matches.


    Good, Yeo growled. Ive still got a lot of energy left.


    Several more matches passed. Yeo was the next of them to be called up, and he won his match without much of the usual ir his style usually employed. It was done in just over a few seconds, and he returned to sit beside them, a pensive look on his face.


    Be was called next, and she won her next fight as easily as the first  although she didnt forget to bow this time around. Both of them definitely looked like they had more experience than the rest of theirpetitors, and it was showing.


    Chance spotted Jake in his second fight as well. The Metal cultivator won it as easily as his first, making the entire thing look borderline effortless. He looked just as dangerous as Be and Yeo, if not more.


    His own name was called shortly after, but Chance was so preupied with Yeo and Jake that the proctor had to repeat it before he snapped back into reality.


    Sorry,ing! Chance said, jumping to his feet. Drake was his proctor once again, and his second opponent was arge, heavyset boy wearing leather armor.


    They took their positions on either side of the arena.


    You all there? the boy asked. You look half asleep.


    Sorry, Chance said. Im a little distracted.


    Undistract yourself, the boy suggested. And, since Im pretty sure you missed it, Im Todd.


    Nice to meet you, Chance said. Im Chance.


    I know. I was listening.


    Enough chatter, Drake said. Begin!

 Chapter 22: Dont do that.

    Chapter 22: Don''t do that.


    Todd and Chance bowed to each other. Gold mist leapt to Chances fingers as he straightened to find Todd already charging at him. He thrust his hand forward, sending wisps of the Essence out and swinging his urumi to keep the other boy back.


    The other Shikari raised a hand. It glittered with faint energy and the sword whip rang off it with a ng as if it had hit metal. Then he was upon Chance. A wisp of gold Essence brushed across Todd an instant before he drove his fist into Chances stomach.


    The blow sent him tumbling back, and Chance only barely managed to stop himself before he slipped past the arena boundaries. He staggered to his feet, gasping for the breath that had been knocked from his lungs.


    Todd charged him once more. Chance steeled himself, doing his best to ignore the pain, and flicked his wrist. The urumished out, but the des nced off his raised arms and shot harmlessly to the side.


    Chance darted to the side. He was just a little faster than the other boy, which let him buy enough time to draw the urumi back to its resting position with a snap of his wrist. It hissed past Todd on the way back, scraping across his back.


    Judging by the noise it made, Chance didnt suspect for a second that hed actually managed to cut Todd. Something about his body was just too difficult to carve through. Johnathans admonishments echoed through Chances head.


    <em>My attacks arent strong enough because they dont have any Essence behind them. Maybe thats what Todd is doing  reinforcing his body with Essence. </em>


    Chances heart hammered in his chest, the heat coiled around his heart pulsing with every beat. He called on his Essence, trying to imagine it flowing into his urumi and inundating the metal links.


    Todd charged at him again. This time, the boy kept his hands out, trying to take up as much space as possible and corner Chance against the edge of the circle. He probably could have slipped past therger boy, but instead, Chance stood his ground.


    Golden light slithered down his hand and the handle of the urumi grew warm as it entered the de. Chance reared back and went to flick his wrist to send what he hoped to be an empowered attack out.


    Instead, his wrist struck something hard and he helped in pain, dropping the urumi in surprise as he found himself nose to nose with Drake. Pain shot down his forearm and he dropped the urumi. Todd skidded to a stop.


    What do you think youre doing? Drake growled.


    Chance cradled his injured wrist. What do you mean?


    You were pouring Essence into your de, Drake said, nudging the fallen urumi with his foot.


    And?


    Drake gave him a t stare. It waspletely unstable. It could have done any manner of things. This is a tournament to see which of you is the better fighter, not which of you can blow yourself and the other one up. Techniques must be done with a pattern and intent.


    Youre off your rocker, Todd said, his eyes wide. You were going to attack with a weapon just pumped full of Essence?


    It seemed like a decent idea, Chance said through gritted teeth, rubbing his wrist.


    It wasnt, Drake said. This match is over, as I had to interfere. Chance is disqualified for reckless endangerment of himself and his opponent.


    He tossed Chance a small green healing pill. He caught it with his good hand, fumbling for a moment before throwing it into his mouth and suppressing his anger. The pain pulsing through his wrist faded as a bone reset itself.


    Todd shook his head. Youre insane, man.


    More like clueless, Chance grumbled, picking his urumi up as he walked off the arena. How was I supposed to know that was a technique? The other proctor just said my attacks need to have Essence behind them.


    That doesnt mean use techniques. Toddughed. That sounds more like he meant your attacks didnt fit the Essence you were cultivating. Like air attacks would logically be fast or have some aspect of air, you know?


    Chance scrunched his nose in annoyance. Ah. Well, crap. I wish hed just said that. Oh well. Honestly, I did better than I thought I would. Sorry for almost blowing us up.


    Live and learn, Todd said with a chuckle. Bummer we didnt get to fight much, your abilities looked pretty interesting. Looking forward to seeing you at the real tournament whenever ites around.


    Likewise, Chance said, heading back to his team.


    Be gave him a sympathetic smile and Yeo crossed his arms, ring at Drake.


    What a prick of a proctor, Yeoined. You probably wouldnt have done anything too bad, and its not like they dont have a bunch of healing pills. He shouldnt have interrupted your match.


    Chance shook his head. No, Id much rather he did if that was as dangerous as he implied. I dont want to seriously hurt someone. Its better for me to just get disqualified than possibly kill someone.


    Yeo harrumphed. Whatever. I bet you could have gotten way farther if you hadnt gotten stopped.


    Theres always the final tournament, Be said. Its not like this is the end all. Chance is right.


    Yeah, I guess so, Yeo agreed. The tournament continued around them. Every match grew closer, and the best of the fighters quickly started to filter themselves out of the rabble.


    Be, Todd, Drake called. Youre up.


    Id like to withdraw from the rest of the fights, Be said. Everyone in the area stared at her in shock.


    Curious. Understood, youve been withdrawn, and well just assume you lost this match, Drake said with a shrug. Congrats on your second free win, Todd.


    Doesnt feel like much of a win, therge boy grumbled. Why dont you wanna fight me?


    Nothing to do with you, Be said while Yeo gawked at her. I just feel like Ive gotten what Ivee here for today. I dont want to fight any longer.


    Todd grunted. I see. Well, whatever you want.


    You didnt withdraw because I got disqualified, did you? Chance asked Be.


    She leveled a t stare at him. Of course not. I had my own reasons.


    Yeo rubbed his forehead. Now Im going to have to win for all of us. Talk about pressure. Thats just cold, Be.


    Youll live.


    Several more fights passed. Yeo won once more, although it took him considerably more effort. It was clear that the remaining students were all almost at the same skill level. It didnt take long until there were only two undefeated students left  Yeo and Jake.


    Oh boy, Be whispered. This ought to be good.


    Chance wasnt so sure himself. Everyone sat in front of Drakes arena as the proctor called the finalists of the tournament up to take their ces.


    Good. I was worried you might get crushed before we made it against each other, Jake said with a cocky grin. Its unfortunate we didnt meet until the finals. Your rank is going to end up inted because you made it this far.


    Funny, I was about to say the same thing to you, Yeo said, resting a hand on his kusarigama.


    Enough prattling, Drake said. I want to get lunch. Begin.


    Metal bloomed over Jakes body, encasing him in his suit of armor as Yeo summoned his second kusarigama. This time, he didnt call out the name of the move. Chance found himself wondering if that was a good thing.


    Neither of the Shikari bowed to each other. Yeos sickles arced through the air for Jake, who batted one to the side with the shaft of his hammer and blocked the other with his arm.


    Not going to work, Jakeughed, starting toward Yeo. You cant hurt me, Yeo. Not with that pathetic bastardiatzation of what Metal cultivators should be.


    Yeo didnt respond. He yanked the sickles back, causing them to whistle past Jakes head. He didnt even bother ducking  his armor just warped behind him, forming a te. The sickle rang off it with a ng before Yeo yanked it back into his hands with a glower.


    Yeo spun the weapons, building momentum, and threw them both out once more. Jake let them pass him, then reached out and grabbed one of the chains as it slithered through the air. His metal-encased hand crunched clean through the chain, and the sickle flew to the side, falling to the ground behind him.


    And your aura control is still pitiful, Jake observed. Have you done nothing since you got to Gleam? Or did you just spend all your time posing?


    This is a fight, not a debate, Drake said. Shut up and fight, or at least try to do something while you bber. Im more bored than you could possibly believe.


    Jake shrugged. He leaned forward, erupting forward with a burst of motion and swinging his hammer at Yeo. The lithe boy ducked under the attack and thrust a palm into Jakes stomach. It thunked harmlessly against the armor and Yeo vaulted back before the hammer mmed into the ground in a brutal overhead swing.


    Yeo spun his remaining kusarigama, then extended his hand toward the other one. The broken chain links along the ground rattled and snapped back together, reconnecting with his sickle and pulling it back over to him. With a battle cry, Yeo sent them flying out once more.


    I dont think trying that over and over is going to do very much, Be muttered. Jakes defenses are way better than Yeos offensive abilities. He cant hurt him.


    Dont count him out so easily, Chance said defensively, although he couldnt find any real reason to disagree with Be. Yeo really did seem to be at an enormous disadvantage. Hed never tell his friend, but Jake seemed to have a point. Then again, he wasnt a Metal cultivator, so Chance preferred to think that Yeo knew something both of them didnt.


    Yeo buzzed around Jake, his sickles nging off the other boys armor as the blurred through the air. Jake just kept a steady pace after Yeo, asionally elerating to try and get a strike in.


    While it was undeniable that Yeo was far faster and more nimble than his opponent, he was clearly starting to get tired, while Jake had barely exerted himself. Every passing second meant the fight tipped more in Jakes favor.


    Chances hands clenched as he desperately hoped for something to shift and give Yeo at least a single blow on the other boy.


    Dont do anything, Be whispered to him. I know you probably wouldnt, but I think we both know Yeo would be pissed if he found out you used your magic to help his fight.


    I wouldnt do something like that, Chance muttered, unclenching his hands. I just really want him to win.


    With your Essence, you better be careful with just <em>how </em>much you want him to win, Be replied.


    With a loud crash, Jake brought his hammer down on top of the chains of one of Yeos sickles, shattering it once more.


    Hurry it up, Drake called. Im going to call this a draw if one of you doesnt start getting an advantage.


    Are you kidding? Hes exhausted, Jake replied. Ive got the clear advantage.


    Yeo bared his teeth, panting. Yeo spun his undamaged kusarigama, then whipped it out in a wide arc. It flew past Jake and he yanked it back, flicking the long chain like a whip. The sickle snapped, rapidly changing course to fly for Jakes neck.


    Once more, it rang off Jakes armor. Jake grabbed the chain before Yeo could retract it and pulled. Instead of losing his bnce, Yeo released his weapon and hopped back, stopping at the edge of the arena. Jake threw it to the ground and brought his hammer down on top of it, shattering the sickle.


    No more weapons, Yeo, Jake said with augh, barreling toward him and raising his hammer.


    Yeo didnt respond. He flicked his fingers up, then bared his teeth in a savage grin. Metal Dragon Art: Lots of tiny little pieces of shit.


    The scattered links of chain littering the ground leapt from the ground like a swarm of gnats and zipped for Jakes face. His armor shifted, but it was impossible to block the small horde.


    Thin lines of blood carved across Jakes face and he squeezed his eyes shut, batting at the storm at it nipped at him. He quickly recovered hisposure, gritting his teeth and snarling. Arge portion of the metal dropped from the sky.


    Still no aura control, Jake snarled. He wrinkled his nose and coughed, gagging. st. You got some of that shit stuck in my throat.


    Yeos face creased in concentration. Several of the metal pieces started to rise again, but they shuddered and fell as Jake redoubled his own control over the metal. Then he charged Yeo once more.


    There was nowhere else to run. Jake swung his hammer and Yeo twisted, trying to dodge therge weapon. He was almost sessful. Instead of catching him in the chest, it clipped him in the shoulder.


    Bone cracked and Yeo tumbled across the ground. He rolled to his feet, his teeth gritted in pain, but he was out of the circle.


    Jake lowered his hammer, fury burning in his eyes. His face was still crisscrossed with thin cuts, and blood trickled out of his nose and ears. Yeo met his gaze, extending his hands as the shattered pieces of his Kusarigama slid across the ground and reformed.


    Jake wins, Drake said, yawning. Finally. Congrattions on having one of the most melodramatic and boring fights Ive ever seen. Seriously, for all that talk, couldnt either of you actually have an interesting ability?

 Chapter 23: Foundlings

    Chapter 23: Foundlings


    Dont be so harsh, Drake, another proctor said, giving the young Shikari what was probably supposed to be a motivational grin. You should both feel proud of reaching this far in the finals. Youve got a lot to learn, but that doesnt mean you cant celebrate aplishments.


    Neither Yeo nor Jake responded. Jake spat a glob of blood onto the ground and spun his hammer, slinging it over his shoulder as his armor melted away. Drake walked over to Yeo and handed him a healing pill.


    He swallowed it, not taking his eyes off Jake as the other boy walked back into the crowd. Chance approached Yeo.


    That was a really good fight.


    I lost.


    Yeah, but it looked like you were at a big disadvantage because of your styles of fighting, Chance said, trying to choose his words as carefully as possible but still feeling like he was somehow ending up with all the worst possible options. You almost got him at the end. I dont want to imagine what a storm of metal fragments would do if it was inside of me.


    Nothing good, Yeo said with a bark of bitterughter. He rose to his feet and returned his kusarigama to its spot at his side. I just cant control my aura enough to actually make it work if its even possible. That wasnt a good fight. Jake destroyed me, and I barely managed to hurt him.


    Then train and get him next time, Chance said. Come on. That doesnt sound like you.


    Anger and disappointment marred Yeos face, but only for an instant. He shook his head, and his normal personality was back with a cocky grin. Yeah. Youre right. Next time, Ill get him.


    Chance had never taken himself for a particrly perceptive person, but he had no doubt that Yeo was faking it, burying the shame of the defeat and trying to pretend as if it didnt bother him.


    Just as long as you dont let the defeat bury itself in your subconscious, Be said, walking to join them. That would only cripple your growth. Your powers are only going to be at their peak when youre convinced that youre on the right path. There are many aspects to every Essence. Just because yours is different than Jakes doesnt mean its wrong. Just figure out what youre weak at and get better.


    Yeo snorted. Yeah. Sure. Thanks. I already know Im the best.


    <em>Hes lying again. </em>


    Chance shook his head slightly, dismissing the thought. He had no way to know that for sure, but he couldnt shake the feeling, even though it felt like he was looking down on his friend.


    <em>If Yeo says hes fine, shouldnt I trust him?</em>


    Shes right, Drake observed idly. Not every metal cultivator I have ever known tanked themselves up like a big tin can. A lot of them do, mind you, but Ive seen some very powerful Shikari with unique takes on their abilities. Straying from the treaded path is difficult, and itll be harder for you to improve. But, if you can, youll likely find yourself more powerful  or at least more versatile  than those who just copy what others do.


    Yeo paused, then inclined his head. I already knew that. Thanks, though.


    Good, Drake said. If I have to watch a fight as boring as that one again, I might go find the nearest monster and feed myself to it. I have no idea why I got assigned to this godawful role, and I hope it never happens again.


    He strode off. One of the other proctors gave them an apologetic grin as everyone started to disperse, leaving the training grounds.


    Come on, Yeo said. I need to get a lot of training in. Ive been cking off on my cultivation too much.


    ***


    Pete greeted them with a wide grin as they returned to the Whiteheart house.


    Gibson came by. You passed!


    Yeah, Yeo said with a grin. He pped Chance on the shoulder. We all did great, even though Chance started pestering our proctor with questions. He probably could have done pretty well in the individual rankings if he didnt get himself disqualified.


    Chance grinned sheepishly and shame washed over Petes face. He inclined his head, his grip around the gnarled staff tightening.


    I apologize, Chance. I was told why you were disqualified, and the me lies entirely on me. I believed that you would have been instructed on the proper usage of Essence when you arrived, but I should not have made assumptions. I am a poor instructor.


    Its fine, Chance said. I know now, and the rankings really dont matter that much right now anyway. The important tournament ister. Lets just be happy that were all Foundling ranked now.


    Pete smiled and gave him a nod before turning to lead them inside, where three leather pouches wereid out on the kitchen table. He picked them up, handing one to each of the newly appointed hunters.


    Chance opened his. It was separated into severalpartments. Thergest held a silver disk roughly the size of his palm and carved with flowing letters and markings. Beside it, in the mainpartment, there were half a dozen small metal orbs. There were also several gold coins in a small side-pouch.


    The disk is called a Ward, Pete exined. Dont do it now  but when youre on a hunting job, direct your Essence into it and focus on the monster. Itll pull you and it, along with any other nearby Shikari, into a pocket dimension. Just remember that you need to weaken the monster first, and dont let it overpower you and change the environment you arrive in.


    How exactly does that happen? Chance asked, studying the disk. Is it just a willpower fight?


    Willpower and strength, Pete said with a nod. A mixture of the two. Its easier for the Shikari, since were just trying to maintain the appearance of the city, while the monster will likely want to change things in its favor. Dont try to do anything fancy until youre much stronger. Thatll give away your home ground advantage and put you on equal footing with your target.


    Understood, Chance said. These orbs are the things that collect the monster when weve beaten it, right?


    They are. Pete gave him an approving grin. And theyre what powers most of Gleam. Theyre also how you can make a lot of bonus money to better equip yourself and, hopefully, fix up this wreck of a house.


    Its not that bad, Chance protested. Nothings wrong with it!


    Except its too small. And its creaky and we dont have anywhere to train yet. But dont worry, gramps. Were going to be rich soon enough.


    Just be careful, Pete warned. If you do too much damage to the city for any reason, most of your earnings are going to be going toward repairs. Trust me, I know firsthand.


    Well be careful, Be promised.


    Good, good, Pete said. I bet youre all very excited to get your first job. Just make sure


    Actually, I need to train, Yeo said. Excuse me.


    He slipped up the stairs, and the door to his room shut behind him a few secondster. Pete pursed his lips.


    He took his loss hard, did he? Second ce is nothing to scoff at. He should be proud.


    He took it pretty hard. Im sure hell get over it, Be said with a shrug. But hes got one thing right. I need to train too, and I was actually hoping to talk to you a little bit about my fighting style. One of the proctors told me that I dont have any cohesion, and I think he might have a point.


    Pete raised an eyebrow and gestured to the chairs in the living room. Chance took the opportunity to slip away and head upstairs. He paused between his and Yeos rooms, wondering if he should talk to the other boy.


    He shook his head and headed into his own room. Yeo probably needed some time alone, and there was a lot that Chance had to improve at as well  starting with getting a real grasp on what his Essence could actually do.


    Chance sat down on his bed, leaning against the wall and sitting cross-legged as he closed his eyes and stilled his breathing, focusing on


    Cold wind nipped at his skin, and warmth of the daylight on his skin from the window vanished. He sighed, allowing his eyes to open but already knowing where he was. Theforting metal hilt of his urumi materialized in his hand. Yamish, how do you always know when Im alone? Its honestly a little unsettling. You know? It feels like youre watching me.


    I am, Yamish replied. For once, the strange cultivator was standing upright, leaning against a cracked wall. To Chances surprise, they werent actually in a tight alleyway, though there was no mistaking the dreary, run down atmosphere of the Old City.


    They stood in a small town square, beside the ruins of an old fountain. The buildings surrounding the two were dpidated and rubble littered the ground. As usual, an ever present haze hung in the air above them, blurring the purple and orange sky. Shadows twitched and swayed along the edges of the square.


    This time, Chance was certain that the emotion he felt was excitement. The Old City was making him stronger. That did little to temper his nerves, as something told him the Old City wouldnt hesitate to use him up and spit his broken corpse out when it was done.


    Chance swallowed. Ah. I guess that makes sense. I dont suppose youd stop doing that?


    I will not.


    Fair enough. Uh, where are we? I can tell this is somewhere in the Old City, but I dont recognize it. Theres a pretty starkck of alleys.


    We are deeper, Yamish replied. The maze of alleys is just at the very edge of the Old City.


    Didnt you tell me it was dangerous to go deeper?


    Yes.


    Chance cleared his throat. So is there a reason were here now?


    Yes.


    Are you being slightly difficult on purpose?


    A smile passed across Yamishs face. Yes. We are here to continue paying your debt to the Old City. It would take far too long if you only hunted young Soothounds.


    just how much debt do I have?


    That is for you and the Old City to determine, Yamish said. You will learn, one day. For now, we hunt.


    Chance started to nod, then stopped. Actually, I had a question. Do you think you could help me out?


    Ask. I cannot promise an answer.


    Its about cultivating Karma. Or really, how to actually use my powers. All Ive been able to do is basically give people bad luck, but I know theres got to be more to it than that. Youre also a Karma cultivator, right? So I was hoping you could tell me what to do.


    There are many ways to seek understanding, Yamish said slowly. Following the teachings of others is not necessarily the proper path. Every living being is different, and though we follow the same path, I have no doubt that we will not match each others footsteps.


    Im not trying to copy you, I just want a starting point. I feel like Im looking at things wrong. Isnt there anything general or the like that I could start with? Just to get me in the right direction.


    Yamish drummed his fingers against a leg. I see. I can answer this question, if you wish.


    Id really appreciate that.


    Very well, Yamish said, his words intoned as if Chance had just agreed to something more than just a simple question. The cultivator extended his hands outward, and a faint golden glow enveloped him. Streaks of dark energy stretched through it, swimming through the golden light like fish. Karma is bnce. The natural cycle of all things. To take, one must give. To give, one must take.


    The energy twisted, separating itself into a yin-yang in the air behind Yamish. Chance watched in rapt attention as the glowing light spiraled behind him.


    To cultivate Karma, you must embody it, Yamish continued. As it stands, you do not. Ah, your target has arrived.


    The shadows at the edges of the square lengthened and a paw the size of a dinner te emerged from them, padding gently against the stone. Arge Soothound prowled out of the darkness, its hackles pulled back in a growl and its burning eyes affixed on Chance.


    To connect with the Karmic cycle, you should begin by seeing that which cannot be seen.


    Chance took a step back, raising his weapon and keeping his eyes trained on the Soothound as it sniffed the air. Thats a little bigger than the ones I fought before.


    Growth is natural, Yamish replied. It has arrived at a good time. Look at it and <em>see.</em>


    That makes zero sense, Chanceined. How am I supposed to look at something that isnt there? I get youre trying to be cryptic, but Id love some actual advice.


    Yamish grinned. Focus on seeing. The threat of the monster will give you sufficient motivation. I had to seek a more powerful target for you in order to properly pay off your debt to me for answering your questions. You cannot defeat this creature in your current state. Seed or perish.

 Chapter 24: A decision

    Chapter 24: A decision


    <em>Whelp, that exins why he sounded all different when he asked me if I really wanted to ask him anything. Would it have killed him to actually tell me that earlier?</em>


    The Soothound growled. It started toward Chance, watching Yamish warily out of the corner of its eye. Chance desperately tried to visualize whatever his insane mentor was talking about, but it was to no avail.


    Saliva dripped from the Soothounds maw and sizzled against the ground. It bounded forward, snapping at Chance with jagged fangs. He threw himself out of the way, shing it across the side with his urumi. The sword whip rang against its fur, sliding off it like metal.


    Many monsters develop a natural defense once they grow strong enough. It is a form of body cultivation, Yamish exined from the sideline. Unless you possess a technique, your de will not hurt this creature.


    Chance cursed. He drew on his Essence and sent the golden mist out toward the huge wolf as it turned toward him, but the light fizzled away as soon as it drew near.


    It can control its aura too? Chanceined. Seriously? How is this fair?


    The Soothound lunged at him and Chance darted behind Yamish, narrowly avoiding a banana sized w. It snarled, pausing in its charge to see if the cultivator would help Chance.


    There is no fair, Yamish said, his head twisting one hundred and eighty degrees to look at Chance. Fair is a delusion. Your karmic debt to me was increased by requesting my teachings. This is paying it off. If you are willing to learn, then you must <em>see</em>.


    Chance desperately scraped his brain for anything that might help him do what Yamish was talking about. Meanwhile, the Soothound padded toward them, starting to grow more confident in Yamishsck of action.


    If this is my debt, youre still obligated to teach me, right? Chance asked quickly.


    I am.


    Can I try to see with my Essence? Or will that hurt me?


    Do not infuse your body with Essence unless you wish to cause yourself injury. It must be done in the proper manner. Essence is, however, the path to true sight.


    Chance repressed a curse at that particr answer. Yamish was remarkably unhelpful, although he supposed that the man <em>had </em>told him what not to do. That wasntpletely worthless.


    The Soothound leapt at Chance, who threw himself forward and rolled underneath therge monster as it flew overhead. He scrambled to his feet and darted back as it spun, dashing after him.


    <em>Please, a little help! </em>


    The gold mist didnt respond. A w caught Chance across the side as he dove once more, and red-hot pain seared through his body. He cried out, staggering to his feet as blood gushed from the wound.


    It is not fatal, Yamish supplied helpfully.


    Chance didnt get a chance to respond. A massive paw mmed into his shoulder and he cried out in pain. He mmed into the ground, the bones in his upper chest cracking under the weight of the enormous creature. His urumi skittered across the ground beside him.


    Hot saliva dripped down around him, burning into the cold stone. A victorious growl slipped out of the monsters mouth as rancid breath washed over him. Chance desperately drew on his Essence.


    He needed to <em>see. </em>Something told him Yamish wouldnt be helping out any further until he did. If he couldnt push the Essence through his own eyes, hed make a new one. Chance directed the energy to his forehead, forming a mental image and praying to anyone that would listen that it would work.


    <em>Thank you.</em>


    He barely stopped the snicker from slipping out of his lips. The idea of being thankful an instant before a giant monster wolf that smelled of carrion ripped him to ribbons was amusing, in a morbid way.


    Brilliant yellow light erupted from his forehead as a golden eye snapped open on it. Adrenaline pumped through Chances veins, doing its best to repress the damage to his body. Bands of gold light appeared around the Soothound, all of varying thickness.


    One, as wide as his forearm, was wrapped around the creatures stomach. There were dozens of others connected to its paws and back like the strings of a puppeteer, stretching off into the distance.


    The monster didnt seem to notice them. Its head shot forward to rip Chances throat out,pletely unhindered by whatever the strange light was. A fist crashed into the Soothounds snout and the monsters head snapped to the side. Blood sprayed across the ground and it staggered back with a whimper.


    A pill fell from above Chance. It hit his mouth and a cool rush of energy flooded through his body, repairing the damage to his chest with a dozen loud cracks. He drew a ragged gasp and scrambled upright.


    You can see, Yamish observed. Well done.


    Chances heart thundered violently, and it was all he could do to muster a nod. The Soothound shook his head, snarling as it paced in a circle around them. He grabbed his urumi from the ground, holding it in a shaking hand.


    What now? What are those glowing ropes?


    Karmic debt, Yamish replied. They are the path down which victory awaits. Either im them or sever them.


    What will that do?


    Yamish smiled, sending another burst of unease through Chance. We will see. It depends on you. This is your path, after all. No two men will walk exactly the same road to enlightenment.


    Chance grimaced.


    <em>I probably should have expected that.</em>


    The Soothound burst into a run, opening it mouth and letting out a howl. Chance gritted his teeth and waited until thest second to dive out of the way. He reached out, grabbing onto the thickest band of light as the monster flew by.


    A jolt of cold shot into his palm and coursed through his body. Chance hit the ground with a grunt and rolled over to see the band of light unravel from the Soothound. It peeled back, golden mist pouring off it and forming into a glimmering, translucent figure of another Soothound.


    The golden Soothound was slightly smaller than Chances opponent, and had a fluffy mane that would have been majestic had it not been matted down. With a mute snarl, the apparition leapt at the monster and swept its massive, gold ws through the other ones side.


    Blood sprayed across the ground as the gold light carved through flesh like butter. The ck Soothound snarled in pain andshed out, its paw batting the gold mist aside. Unperturbed, the gold beast shed one more time, leaving another raking line of wounds.


    The mist flickered and faded away after the second blow. Snarling, the wounded Soothound spun, limping slightly as it searched for its opponent.


    Thus is the price of an unpaid karmic debt, Yamish said from the sidelines. Instead of waiting for the universe to take its due course, you have elerated the state of natural events by paying off this creatures karmic debt in one particr instance. Now, try severing another debt.


    With my urumi?


    Yes. Intent is all that is needed, but it must be carried through an instrument or your hands.


    Chance gripped the hilt of the urumi and flicked his wrist, extending the sword-whip and sending it arcing through the air. The Soothound snarled, charging at him and ignoring the strike. The segmented des bit into one of the glowing strands, and it snapped with a twang.


    Glowing mist rushed down the length of the urumi and flooded into Chances body. The Soothound leapt at him, its jaws shing as it went for his throat. Chance twisted, moving in ways hed never known possible, and threw himself out of the way of the beasts maw.


    He darted at it as soon as his feet hit the ground, moving far faster than either of them had expected. Chances urumi snapped back to its retracted form in his hand and he shoved it into the creatures eye with all the strength he could muster.


    Bone scraped on metal as the de mmed home. The eye popped like a bubble, spilling white and red fluids across the ground as Chances de continued through its brain, killing the creature instantly. He ripped the sword free, panting, as the Soothound copsed to the ground.


    Curious indeed, Yamish said.


    What was that? Chance asked, doubling over and struggling to catch his breath. His heart mmed so violently in his chest that he feared it might break through  but it felt good. Like he was alive for the first time, and everything else had just been a muted dream.


    You appear to have gained a small portion of Essence from the karmic debt you cut, Yamish observed. That bond belonged to another Soothound. I believe you temporarily gained a measure of its speed thatsted until the debt was paid.


    Chance tried moving his hand, but he was back to his normal movement speed. He flopped onto the ground and the golden lines connected to the Soothound faded away. Whether that was because it had died or because hed stopped putting energy into the image of the gold eye.


    Is that not what happens for you?


    No, it is not, Yamish said. You have been taught, and you have killed my target. Our debt has been cleared once more.


    Good. Ill be more careful with questions in the future, Chance said. He paused for a moment, thenpletely disregarded what hed just said. So how did you know what those karmic debts belonged to? And how did they happen in the first ce? Is it because the Soothound killed things?


    Yamish stared at him.


    I feel like that falls under our previous agreement, Chance pointed out.


    You will learn to recognize the source as you cultivate. And no, it is not because of death. Death is a natural part of life, and killing something will not establish karma on its own. Every living being has a right to defend itself. The karmic bond you released was to a Soothound that was hunting together with this one. Yamish nodded to the corpse. This one killed it in order to get more food, thus creating debt.


    So it was because it killed something, but more because of the reason <em>why </em>it killed rather than the actual killing?


    Yes.


    I see.


    Chance looked down at himself, searching for his own lines of karmic debt. To his surprise, he couldnt see anything. He craned his neck to check if they were hidden on his back, but he looked normal to his newly enhanced sight.


    Where are my lines?


    It takes a great level of enlightenment to see your own karmic debt, Yamish said with augh. Perhaps you will reach it, perhaps not.


    I guess that makes sense. What about you? I cant see your lines either.


    <em>And once I can see yours, Ill figure out how to defend myself from you. I havent forgotten your first little warning, Yamish. You want something from me. I just dont know what, and Im not going to get blindsided. </em>


    I have hidden mine, Yamish replied. Once you are strong enough, you would be wise to do the same. Our Karma is both our greatest strength and our greatest weakness.


    Chance nodded, filing the information away. Thank you. I appreciate your help, so Ill just be on my way, if youd send me back


    There is one more thing, Yamish said. He raised a long finger, pointing at Chance. You have karmic debt.


    I know. With the Old City.


    Not just the Old City, Yamish said. The two mortals you spend time with. You have a karmic connection with both of them.


    I mean, isnt that natural? Theyre my teammates. They help me. I help them. Thats how things work.


    Karma cultivators must have no debt. You must be pure, Yamish said.


    Chances eyes narrowed. That means you never do positive for someone? Everything good has to be tempered with something, what, bad?


    That is a primitive way to look at it.


    But not wrong?


    Not wrong.


    Then I refuse, Chance said, crossing his arms. Im going to help people, not hurt them.


    You will inhibit yourself.


    I guess well just have to walk different paths, then, Chance said, setting his jaw. I promised myself that Id make a positive difference, and thats what Im going to do, rules be damned. If the universe has a problem with me wanting to help, then it can take it up with me directly.


    Yamishs lips pressed thin. He pulled a thin de from his robes and cut into the dead Soothound, removing a small chunk of meat. The cultivator held it out to Chance, blood still dripping from it. Grimacing, Chance took it and swallowed, trying to chew as little as possible to minimize the time it was in contact with his tastebuds.


    Heat seared through his chest, bands of molten agony wrapping around his heart and spreading through his veins.

 Chapter 25: Greywall

    Chapter 25: Greywall


    He gagged, squeezing his eyes shut in disgust. When they opened again, he was sitting on his bed in the Whiteheart house. He scrambled to his feet and darted out of the room, nearly bowling into Be.


    She slipped to the sided and Chance rushed down the stairs, gagging out an apology. He sprinted to the sink and gargled water for nearly a minute before spitting it out into the sink and dry heaving.


    Are you okay? Be asked, stepping down the stairs.


    Chance wiped his mouth, trying to press thest vestiges of the foul taste away from his memory. His chest cooled until it was only ufortably warm. Yeah. Yeah, Im fine.


    What happened? Did you eat something rotten?


    I  something like that, Chance said. Yamishs warning to keep their meetings to himself was still fresh in his mind, and he didnt want to put anyone  including himself  at risk. Im fine, really.


    Be shrugged. If you say so, I wont press. None of my business. Did your cultivation go well?


    It did, Chance half-lied. Fighting was probably a type of cultivation somewhere. Nearly dying definitely was. What about you?


    Better than Id hoped, Be said, a small smile passing over her lips. That proctor was right. I was relying very heavily on an ability that wasnt really mine instead of pursuing my own cultivation path, and that was holding me back.


    You were using an ability?


    The water. I was using pre-determined forms for it, simr to a technique but not exactly like one. Be chewed her lower lip. I got it from you know.


    Ah, Chance said. Would I be prying if I asked why? I mean, he didnt seem like the type of person to help anyone.


    He isnt. Bes hands clenched at her sides and her face grew stormy. The less I use of what he gave me, the better.


    Is that why you dropped out of the tournament?


    Part of it. I didnt feel like I waspeting with my own abilities, Be replied, her cheeks going red. I know that sounds really stupid. If I can use them, theyre obviously mine. It just didnt feel right.


    Nah, I think thats really respectable, Chance said. Not that I didnt respect you before, of course. I just think wanting to make sure youre only using your own abilities topete is an honorable thing to do. So if the water was Ve  uh, our mutual enemys, what are you using now?


    Belle extended a hand. A thinyer of ck ice stretched across it. The crystals grewrger and more defined, forming into a rough gauntlet before it fell away. Not all that different from water. But its my style.


    Ice for the ice queen, Yeo called from the top of the stairs. They both spun toward him and he grinned, sliding down the handrail. Having a chat without me?


    Im not an ice queen.


    You certainly were one. Well, Im not so sure about the queen part, but you were a royal b  a


    Bes eyes narrowed and she sent a pointed nce at her hand as ice started to grow across it again. Im not one to hit someone unprovoked, but Im not beyond challenging you to sparring match and seeing how far I can fit my foot up your ass.


    Yeo burst intoughter. He punched her on the shoulder and gave her a thumbs up. Now thats some good shit talk. Im d you didnt open with it, though. I wouldnt have been able to make as much fun of you.


    d to see youre in high spirits, Chance said.


    Well, its been a few days. I got over it.


    Chance choked.


    <em>What?</em>


    Days?


    Got lost in cultivation, huh? Yeo asked with a snicker. The tournament was almost a week ago.


    <em>What the hell? What did Yamish do? I swear it was only a few hours at most, not a day!</em>


    Idly, Chance sent Essence into his third eye and studied Be and Yeo. Strands of essence erupted around both of them like blooming flowers, with so many that he could barely count them all. Each of them had a connection to him, but it was almost translucent, and he couldnt make out the images within it. Not wanting to invade their privacy too much, he dismissed the ability.


    Its normal to lose track of time when youre meditating, Be said. You must have had a pretty productive session.


    Yeah, Chance said. I suppose I did. Just didnt realize how productive.


    Maybe youll avoid getting kicked out of the next tournament then, eh? Yeo said.


    Ill do my best. Wheres Pete?


    Hes off hunting. Hisst job took out several buildings, so now hes trying to pay it off, Be said, shaking her head. Hes a menace. In the years that Ive known him, I dont think hes ever managed toplete a job without spending nearly every coin he earns.


    You ever see him working? Yeo asked.


    No. Hes ranked highly enough to work on his own, and thats all he does. I dont think he could get any teammates. Because of, well, the whole negative profits problem.


    Makes sense, Chance said. But what should we do, then? Wait until he gets back?


    No need. Be pointed to the kitchen table, where two scrolls wereid out. We got some offers for jobs yesterday. He gave them to me before he left and said we could do them whenever we want.


    Oh, sweet! Yeo eximed, darting over to the table. He grabbed one of the scrolls and broke the red wax seal on it, unfurling the parchment and scanning over it. Chance and Be walked over to join him and peered over his shoulders. To Chances annoyance, he couldnt read a single word of the scroll.


    <em>I suppose I should have expected that. </em>


    Whats it say? Chance asked.


    Its a lost pet request, Yeo muttered, tossing the scroll back down and grabbing the other one. Id rather do literally anything else.


    Helping people sounds nice, Chance said, but even Be looked unimpressed with the quest.


    This is more like it! Yeo said. It looks like there are a lot of missing pet cases, and several kids were attacked by a monster in the Graywall district. Its reported to be a Lesser Imp.


    I assume thats weak? Chance guessed.


    Yeah, pretty weak, Yeo confirmed. More than a threat for some kids or weak pets, though. At least this is an actual hunting job.


    My votes for that, Be said.


    Works for me as well, Chance said. Do we have any more information?


    No, but weve got the addresses of several people that put in the request, Yeo replied, rolling the scroll up. We can stop by their houses and get information. You got your gear?


    Its still in my room. Are we going now?


    Might as well, Yeo replied, patting the leather pouch at his hip. Im more than ready.


    As am I, Be confirmed.


    Chance nodded and jogged upstairs, attaching the leather pouch to his hip after fumbling around with it for a few moments. He grabbed his urumi, wrapping it in its protective casing, then headed back down to join his team.


    Our first mission! Yeo crowed, holding the scroll aloft as the exited the house. His grin faltered for a moment. Not exactly the incredible start to my story that I was hoping for, but I guess everyone has to begin with stuff like this.


    I killed a fully grown Soothound as my first mission, Be said.


    <em>I just killed one of those myself. Im pretty sure Yeo would have a heart attack if I told him that, though. Might have to take that secret with me to my grave. </em>


    Well, youreme, Yeo dered. Come on.


    He started down Shikari Lane. Chance went to follow him, but paused as he saw that Be wasnt walking.


    Whats wrong?


    The Graywall district is that way, Be said, pointing in the other direction.


    Yeo pulled the scroll back out and studied it. He grimaced, then walked back over to them and handed it to Be. Maybe you should lead us there.


    Maybe, Be agreed, taking the scroll from him and setting off with them at her side.


    ***


    The Graywall district was near the center of Gleam, although it wasnt quite at the very middle. Chance knew the schr-city was huge, but he hadnt quite conceptualized the scale  until now.


    It was several hours of walking through the city streets just to reach the Graywall district  and Shikari Lane was also supposed to be at the center of the city. Chance was pretty sure it wasnt even realistically possible to walk across the entirety of the city in any reasonable amount of time.


    In just the few hours they walked, Chance felt like hed walked through half a dozen different environments. Gleams streets were like self-contained viges. Many of them, like the market street off of Shikari Lane, seemed to be focused towardmerce.


    Colorful lights glowed above stores in some, while others were lit just by the glow of therge sun. The architecture of the buildings they passed changed significantly as well. While most were stone and brick, they walked by several streets that were full of wooden shopfronts, many painted in vibrant colors and with sloping, pointed ends that drew their eyes.


    Its hard to believe this is all one city, Chance said as they walked down a crowded street, moving quickly to keep up with the foot traffic.


    It really is, Yeo agreed. This ce is huge. Think of all the things theyve got to have waiting for us to buy. Im going to get all of it.


    Not until we improve House Whiteheart, Be said. Or you arent going to be able to store anything you buy.


    I can if half of it is food, Yeo replied. They turned down a smaller side street paved with gray cobblestone, mercifully leaving the majority of the traffic behind and buying themselves some room to breathe.


    After a few more minutes of walking, Be looked down checked the scroll, then nced up at a sign hanging from a post. Were here.


    Graywall district lived up to its name. Rows ofrge houses lined either side of the street, made mostly of gray stone and the asional ent of color. Most of them were several stories, though there were no gardens or greenery in sight. The road, while made of in stone, was well kept.


    Fairly nice ce, Yeo observed while Be walked up to a house, checking its address.


    Not that nice, or they would have had a better Shikari group on this, Be replied with augh. Ive been to some of the <em>really </em>impressive ces in Gleam. Its like an entirely different city.


    Oh, like where?


    The inds, Be said, craning her neck back to look up at the floating masses ofnd above them. The golden pathways connected them glimmered, even in the daylight. Some of those honestly, itll be better if you just see for yourself. Id rather not spoil anything.

 Chapter 26: Didd

    Chapter 26: Didd


    Might be better that way. Ill look forward to the experience. Yeo rubbed his hands together. Anyway, is this the house?


    One of them, Be confirmed. Nathanial Didd is the contact.


    Lets go chat with him, then, Chance said. Did the scroll say how hes involved in this?


    His pet was seriously injured, Be replied. A young Scorchhound. I didnt realize people kept those as pets.


    Im going to go out on a limb and guess its kind of like a Soothound?


    Stronger version of one with the ability to use some basic fire Essence, Be said. Theyre fairly weak monsters overall, but theyre still stronger than a Soothound. A big one shouldnt have had much difficulty with a Lesser Imp, though.


    They approached the fine wood door and Chance rapped on it. A few seconds passed before it swung open, revealing a stern faced man well into his middle age. His hair was starting to gray and thin, but was still brushed neatly.


    He wore dull purple clothes trimmed with white ents. It wasnt extravagant, but it certainly wasnt the outfit of a pauper. The man cocked a thin eyebrow.


    I believe you may have the wrong address.


    This is the Didd Estate, right? Be asked. Were the Shikari team assigned to your job request.


    Ah. Yes, this is my house, the man said, speaking with the slightest hint of distaste. You arrived sooner than I had expected. Thrilling. Please,e inside. I will do my best to answer any questions you may have.


    He opened the door wider, then stepped to the side so they could enter. A plush rug covered the floor and made Chance nce around to see if they were meant to take off their shoes, but Nathaniel was wearing shoes as well.


    Arge wooden table sat in the center of the room, surrounded by cabs full of expensive tes and silverware. Once theyd entered, Nathaniel sat down in the chair at the end of the room. They all sat down on the other side.


    Your job posting says that you believe it was an Imp that attacked your pet Scorchhound, Be said, reading off the scroll briefly. Do you know exactly where the attack urred?


    Yes. It was in the main street, just a short trek down, near the Graywall district park, and it happened at night, somewhere around three hours after sunset. I was not present during the attack, but I was able to determine the aggressor by the wounds on Maggies fur. I tracked the trail of blood back to the park.


    That will make things a lot easier for us. Thank you, Mr. Didd, Be said. Do you have any inkling why your pet  who I presume to be Maggie  was attacked?


    Nathaniels eyes narrowed. Maggie, just like the rest of my pets, are incredibly well trained. None of them would ever attack another being without provocation.


    She didnt mean to imply anything like that, sir, Chance said. My teammate was probably trying to figure out how aggressive the Lesser Imp is.


    Nathaniel made a nomittal noise. Very well. Is there anything else you need?


    Yeo started to shake his head, but Chance cut him off. Actually, if it would be possible, could I see your Scorchhound?


    Whyever for? She is quite distressed, and I will not be allowing you to poke around. I have given all the information you should need.


    I wonty a hand on her, Chance promised. My Essence might allow me to track the Imp if I could just look at her. It would make things a lot easier for us.


    <em>Might being the keyword. </em>


    Nathaniel studied him for a moment, then inclined his head slightly. Very well. Follow me. Do not touch anything.


    He rose to his feet and they all mirrored the motion, following the man out of the room and through a long hallway. It was lined with portraits of men and women. Many of them had simrly thin hair and stern features, which made Chance suspect they were probably the lineage of the mans household.


    Nathaniel reached a metal door and pressed his hand against it. The door hissed and swung open, releasing a small puff of white Essence. Behind it was a small dirt covered room. What must have been the Scorchhound was curled in the corner, outside a small doghouse.


    It was about half the size of a fully grown Soothound and had a fluffy red mane that smoldered faintly with energy. Thin scars trailed down the creatures side, well on their way to healing. The monsters red eyes flicked up at them and it let out a low growl.


    Calm, Maggie, Nathaniel said. The Scorchound lowered its head again. As you can see, she has not recovered from the attack yet.


    Chance nodded. Please just give me a moment.


    He sent his Essence toward his forehead, opening a golden eye upon it. None of hispanions twitched, confirming Chances suspicion that he was the only one that could actually see it.


    Lines of karma stretched out across the room as they swam into vision. Nathaniel was practically covered in them. They hung off his body like a cape, with many of the strands being as thick as a forearm.


    Maggie had considerably fewer  one connected directly to Nathaniel, while there were a few other small ones. Chance frowned, focusing harder on the monster and sending more Essence toward his forehead.


    Yamish could tell who the strands belonged to. If he put enough power into it, Chance was pretty sure he could probably do the same. He gritted his teeth, adding more energy into the magic.


    Tiny flickers of light started to twist around the karmic lines. Maggie growled at Chances unflinching re, and the flickers pulled back.


    Mr. Didd, could you calm Maggie down a little? I think shes subconsciously resisting me.


    Down, girl, Nathaniel said. Let the Shikari work.


    The monster lowered its head once more. Chance felt as if his third eye was squinting at the dog, but it was working. The wisps grew more vibrant until tiny images took shape within the strands.


    They flickered faintly, like slideshows from an old movie that constantly repeated themselves. The karmic debt between Nathaniel and the monster was mostlyposed of scenes of the man feeding it.


    The secondrgest line showed Maggie lunging at a little boy, knocking something from the childs hand. The next slide was the boy on the ground, crying. Several of the other lines were simr scenes, but nothing looked like a serious injury or fight.


    Not a single one of them had anything to do with an imp. Chance shook his head, allowing the golden eye to fade away.


    Thank you. Thats all I need. I appreciate your help.


    Just deal with the Lesser Imp, Nathaniel replied curtly, herding them back to the door and closing it without another word.


    Well? Yeo asked. I didnt know you had a tracking ability. You should have told us!


    I only just found out about it, Chance replied. It was just a suspicion I had, really. Come on, lets walk a bit. I see a bench over there.


    They headed down the street and plopped down in the bench that Chance had indicated. In addition to getting them a little farther from Nathaniels house, it also gave him a moment to rest his aching feet, which he certainly wasnt going toin about.


    Somethings wrong, Be said.


    What? Where? Yeo asked. Or do you mean with Chance?


    If Chance had found something good, I dont think he would have had us walk away, Be said. Did the Scorchhound attack the Lesser Imp?


    Its hard to exin everything, but Im not sure, Chance replied. There was no karmic connection between Maggie and any kind of Imp.


    So you think hes lying? Yeo asked.


    Im not sure, Chance said. He chewed his lower lip, trying to remember everything he knew about how his Essence worked. There are a lot of reasons why there might not be a karmic connection, but the biggest one thates to mind is if Maggie was the aggressor. Everything is allowed to defend itself, and a lot of the other bonds Maggie had were actually her basically knocking over or scratching children.


    Thats really petty, Yeo said with a chuckle. If youre implying Maggie attacked, wouldnt there be some kind of bond because Maggie was the aggressor?


    Not sure about that either, Chance admitted. Im still trying to fully understand how things work. I dont think that attacking something is necessarily bad in the eyes of Karma. It depends on the situation. Also, even if Maggie did start the fight, the wound the Imp inflicted on her might count as enough to pay off the debt.


    I see, Be said, scrunching her nose. But, either way, it does kind of seem like the Scorchhound probably isntpletely innocent here.


    Probably not, Chance agreed. But we had more people we could talk to on this street, right?


    Yeah, Be replied, pointing to a house across from them. It was smaller than Nathaniels house, but it was still two stories tall and beautiful in its own drab, gray way. Just over there. The house owner is Maria Smit.

 Chapter 27: Archives

    Chapter 27: Archives


    They rose and headed up to the door. Before Yeo could even to go knock, it swung open to reveal a woman wearing a stained apron. Her hair was pulled back behind her head in a bun and her hands were covered in flower.


    A small boy peeked out from behind her. The woman gently peeled him off, staining his shirt with flower, and gestured for him to leave.


    Go y with your toys, Abe. I have visitors.


    The boy darted off to the left and she brushed her hands off on her apron as best as she could. My apologies. Youre the Shikari team, yes? I wasnt expecting you so early. We only put in the request a day ago.


    We are. Are you Mrs. Smit, then? Be asked.


    The woman nodded absentmindedly. Just Maria, please. Ive got something a little time sensitive going  please,e in and excuse the mess. Ill answer any questions you may have.


    They followed her in and passed through the living room on their way into he kitchen. A wooden table had been set with five tes, and two of the chairs at the table were raised. The walls of the house were in, but there were several wooden swords and other weapons lying around on the ground.


    Once they got to the kitchen  which was fairly spacious  Maria set about to kneading a ball of dough on the counter. What can I answer for you?


    We were wondering if you could tell us anything about the incident with the Lesser Imp, Be said. Weve already spoken to Nathaniel, but the job says you co-requested this.


    I did, Maria replied, not stopping her work. My son imed to be attacked by an Imp a few days ago. I must admit, I didnt believe him at first. He has a bit of an active imagination, so when he first told me he was attacked, Im ashamed to say that I didnt believe him. He was unwounded, you see. But, when Nathaniel reported that his Scorchhound was also attacked


    He wasnt hurt? Be asked, surprised. Lesser Imps arent that weak. Does your son have any training?


    None, unless you count ying with his brother, Maria said with augh.


    Would we be able to speak with your son? Yeo asked. And where did this happen?


    In the park, Maria said. And yes  you just saw him a few moments ago. Ill be present for anymunication, though. Hes still young, and I wont allow you to scare him.


    We wont do anything of the sort, Chance promised.


    Abe,e to the kitchen for a moment! There are some Shikari here that want to talk to you! Maria called.


    A few moments passed before the excited patter of feet announced Abes presence. The boy skidded into the kitchen, clutching a wooden sword in his hands as he stared at them with wide eyes.


    I knew you were Shikari!


    Calm down, Abe, Maria said. Theyve got some questions about the monster you saw.


    The Imp, Abe said, nodding and giving them a gap-toothed grin. I know what it is!


    How did it attack you? Be asked. Where was it? An average imp is considerably faster than a human, which means its very unlikely that someone your age would be able to escape, unless you managed to lose it somehow.


    Abe stared at her, and it was pretty clear that her words had gone right over the boys head. Chance squatted so that he was closer to the boys eye level.


    You saw it in the park, right? Chance asked.


    Yeah. Abe nodded. At night.


    Could you tell me how it attacked? Do you remember?


    Abe nodded again and shed his sword through the air, as if ying an invisible Imp. It tried to kill me.


    If you were a Shikari, what would you have done to defeat it?


    Abe considered the question with a very serious expression. Well, I woulda had to catch it.


    Oh? Why? Wasnt it chasing you? Yeo asked.


    No, it was trying to kill me with its eyes, Abe said. I know Imps are real dan  dang  dange-bus. His teeth were super sharp and he had big ws. I ran away fore he could kill me and eat me. Or eat me an kill me.


    Chance nodded as he formed his third eye on his forehead. It snapped open with a burst of golden light only visible to him, and he studied the boy while they spoke.


    So you were faster than it?


    Yeah. Im a really fast runner, Abe said proudly. karmic bonds shifted into vision around him, with the biggest one was connected to his mother. The rest were so thin that he could barely see them. He ignored the strand to the Abes mom and focused on the smaller ones, which were more likely to connect to a random Imp attacking the kid. Chance scanned over them, squinting to see the tiny scenes flickering by in the strands.


    They grew slightly the more he focused his attention on them, but it was still nearly impossible to see. Nothing looked particrly out of ce. Chance was about to give up, convinced that the boy had no bonds to the imp, when a thin strand caught his attention.


    It was so small that he almost missed it. The strand only contained a single image  a small, red humanoid creature hanging from a tree. It had long, jagged teeth and hooked ws that dug into the bark.


    Did it try to do anything when you ran away? Chance asked.


    It threw a rock at me, Abe said, jutting his lower lip out. But I jumped outa the way! It missed. Then I got away.


    That helps a lot, Abe. Thank you, Chance said. Be, did you have anything else we should ask him?


    She shook her head. No, you actually hit just about everything I wanted to. Good job.


    Do you think you can take care of this? Maria asked, pushing her dough away and washing her hands in the sink. You all look so young.


    Were more than capable enough do deal with a Lesser Imp, maam. Dont you worry. Yeo gave her a wide smile. Well have it out of your neighborhood before the sun rises tomorrow.


    Or well do our best to, Be said, shooting a nce at Yeo. If the situation seems to be more than we can handle, well bring in a stronger team.


    Thats a relief. Id hate if any of you were hurt, Maria said. I wish you good luck and health.


    Thank you, Chance said. The same to you and your family. Have a great meal. Well get out of your hair now.


    Sheughed and joined Abe in waving as the trio headed back out of the house and returned to the streets of the Graywall district.


    Sorry, Be said. Im not very good with kids.


    We could tell, Yeo said. You were questioning the poor little guy like hed just killed a man. But who cares about that  Chance, did you find anything?


    Kind of, Chance replied. I dont know how useful itll really be, though. Theres some connection between the Lesser Imp and Abe, but its really weak.


    Can you track it or something?


    I have no idea, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head and reddening. Sorry. I only just figured out how to use this part of my power. If I messed with it, I might have hurt Abe on ident, and that wasnt something I was okay with risking.


    Thats probably for the best, Be said. Well have more than enough time for you to cultivate and get strongerter. We know the Imp was somewhere in the park, and it was sighted near nighttime. So thats when we should go as well.


    Chance nodded, but he couldnt help but feel like they were missing something. How much do you know about Lesser Imps?


    Theyre amon monster, Be said. Im no expert in them, though.


    Are they typically aggressive?


    Almost all monsters are, Yeo said. He kicked a rock across the ground, and it skittered into a gutter. Even though the monsters inside Gleam are generally weaker than the ones outside of it, unless theyve been trained by someone, Id expect them to be aggressive.


    Then this doesnt make much sense, Chance said. The Imp was just sitting in a tree. Sure, it threw a rock, but that doesnt really feel evil, you know? Or like the behavior of a predator.


    I feel like were missing something," Be mused, "but were out of people to talk to. We could always try to press for more information from Nathanial or Maria.


    Doubt thatll do much, Yeo said. Nathaniel clearly didnt want us there, and I think Maria and her son already told us everything they know.


    Only thing we can do is go over to the park and poke around ourselves, Chance concluded. He looked up at the sky. It looks like there still a few hours until sunset, though.


    Dunch? Yeo suggested. They both gave him a confused nce and he rolled his eyes. Dinner-lunch. Dunch.


    That works for me, Chance said. Itll kill some time at least. Maybe something inspirational will strike us while were eating.


    The group left the Graywall district. Just a few streets down, the faint sound of live music greeted them. A deep, thrumming bass echoed out from a warmly lit road that ended in a cul-de-sac. Strings crisscrossed above it, glowing papernterns suspended from them bobbing gently in the wind.


    Wooden shop stalls lined the walls, inviting scents rising up from them and mixing in the air into a mishmash of warm cinnamon, honey, and freshly baked bread. The center of the alley was chock full of tables, with chairs distributed amongst them. Dozens of people sat around, eating and talking loudly.


    Now this is more like it, Yeo said. It reminds me a lot of Ruddbrook, actually. Like the festivals we had. Oh, look at that!


    Yeo darted over to a shopfront and they followed after him, stepping carefully around people sitting at tables to avoid disturbing them. In the few seconds it took them to catch up with him, Yeo had already bought arge loaf of glistening tbread, stuffed full of meats and cheese. He took a huge bite out of it and juice dribbled down his chin.


    Get a napkin, Be said with a grimace.


    Yeo procured one from within his other hand and wiped his face off. I notice ack of food in your hands.


    The sign on the cart was written, unsurprisingly, in anguage that Chance couldnt understand. He sighed.


    <em>I really need to spend some time figuring out how to read the stuff here. Im starting to feel like Im an illiterate moron. </em>


    Could I get the same thing he got? And how much was it? Chance asked, nodding to Yeo. The street vendor quickly assembled everything, packing the warm bread full of stuffing before handing it to Chance, holding up two fingers. He paid the man, then walked over to Yeo, who had imed a table for them.


    Be joined them a few momentster, also carrying the exact same meal. Yeo cocked an eyebrow at them and finished chewing before he spoke. Really? You both copied me?


    I didnt want to choose something random, Chance replied before taking arge bite. He let out a content sigh and slid back in his chair. Oh, thats good.


    Dont talk with your mouth full, Be admonished  through a mouthful of her own food.


    None of them pointed out the hypocrisy of that statement. They ate for several minutes, and Chance was more than happy to sit in silence and soak in the ambiance. This area of Gleam was so vibrant and energetic  it was hard to believe it was only a short walk from the drab streets of Graywall.


    You know, something just doesnt sit quite right with me, Be said, wiping her mouth with a napkin. Somehow, shed managed to finish before both of the boys, despite starting well after them.


    With the Lesser Imp? It does seem a bit strange, Yeo agreed. But I dont know what. I dont know much about them.


    I wouldnt call myself an expert in them either, Be said. But it just doesnt make sense. Why wouldnt the Imp attack a boy when it went after a monster?


    Maybe because the kid wasnt a threat? Chance asked. Are monsters smart enough to care about that?


    Some are, Be said pensively. But I dont think Imps were all that clever. Not Lesser ones, anyway. Also, dont you think Maria seemed a little off?


    What do you mean?


    She said she was doing something time sensitive, but she was waiting for us at the door, Be said. Not to mention her time sensitive thing was kneading dough. I dont think it matters if you wait a little longer before kneading something.


    Huh. Thats a good point. I didnt think about that, Yeo said. I think we just dont have enough information to work with. We need to know more about our target.


    Is there a library or something we could visit? Chance asked, setting the remains of his meal down. Or maybe someone who knows a lot about monsters?


    There are Hunter Archives, Be mused. We could go to one of those, but they usually only have basic information about most monsters. Thats still better than nothing, though. Good idea, Chance.


    Do you know where the nearest one is? Yeo asked. Ive heard of them, but Ive never been to one myself.


    Im not sure if its the nearest, but I know where one is, Be, rising from the table. Dont get your hopes too high, though. Theyre a lot less impressive than what youre probably picturing.


    Chance took onest bite of his meal, stuffing the rest of it into his mouth and doing his best chipmunk impression as he balled up the napkin that had been holding it and threw it into a trash bin.


    Lead on, Yeo said with a grandiose gesture. Our castle awaits.

 Chapter 28: That explains it.

    Chapter 28: That exins it.


    The Hunter Archives was a building not muchrger than three port-a-potties put together. It was nestled in the corner of an intersection between two streets that were both borderline abandoned.


    It wasnt quite dpidated, but it was only a few steps away from reaching it. A thinyer of dust covered the gray building, and weeds were sprouting at its edges.


    Wow. My expectations were low, and Im still disappointed, Yeo said as Be opened the small, creaky door and stepped inside.


    Told you, she replied.


    Chance and Yeo followed her in. The inside of the building didnt look much better than the outside. It was essentially little more than a short hallway that ended before a tiny counter. Behind the counter, a dusty old blue orb rested on a pedestal.


    Be pressed her hand to the orb. With a faint hum, dull blue light bloomed across its surface. The orb tottered into the air, its light growing slightly brighter and more stable. It bobbed, letting out a distant chime.


    Please present your Ward, Shikari. It is required to


    Before the orb could finish its robotic speech, Be pressed her Ward against it. The light turned from blue to green for an instant, then the orb let out another chime.


    Shikari Foundling recognized. How can I help you today? Its voice had gained some semnce of emotion, although it still sounded more like a voice-to-speech bot more than anything sentient.


    Were looking for information about Lesser Imps, Be said.


    Acknowledged. A Lesser Imp is a humanoid monster. They are born in a manner traditional to mammals. They aremonly around four feet tall and weigh approximately eighty pounds. Lesser Imps have poor long term memory, but are considered fairly clever. They possess the ability to cultivate, and can evolve into a Greater Imp if left unchecked.


    Stop, Be said, raising a hand. We need to get more specific, or well be here all day. Archive, how aggressive are Lesser Imps?


    Due to their low intelligence, they tend to attack anything that enters their territory  which they appear to believe is anything within their sight.


    Do they typically work alone? Yeo asked.


    Lesser Imps have been only known to work together when under the direction of a Greater Imp. Without one, they will attack each other.


    So there could be a Greater Imp involved if it isnt just attacking people randomly, Yeo mused. Is it guarding something?


    In a park? Bes eyebrows furrowed. Its possible, I guess, but I cant imagine there would be much worth that level of effort in the middle of Gleam. Not with all the cultivators walking around here. Archive, what goals does a Greater Imp typically have?


    Unknown. There have not been sufficient data about Greater Imps provided to the archive to answer this question.


    Guess we should stick to trying to figure out what the Lesser one is doing and deal with the Greater if we run into it. Yeo leaned against the wall and scratched his chin. Say, what powers does a Lesser Imp typically have?


    Lesser Imps typically have Fire Essence and are considered nimble. Many also have basic illusory abilities. Their main method of hunting in the wild involves changing their appearance into the young of another creature, then slowly draining their target of Essence when the parents are not present. They have been known to drain Essence for weeks before their target is dead.


    Theyre like giant mosquitoes, Chance said, shuddering. What about Greater Imps?


    Greater Imps tend to require more food than Lesser ones, but they employ a simr method of hunting. Upon evolution, Greater Imps gain a significant amount of intelligence, which allows them to better mimic their prey. They also be able to gain surface level knowledge of any creature they drain. Greater Imps often kill or incapacitate the parents of their prey, then drain their young for weeks on end.


    They were silent for a moment. Then Yeos face paled. Oh, shit.


    Chance, did you check Marias Karma? Be asked, spinning toward him.


    No! I was only looking at the kid. I didnt get a chance to look at hers.


    We need to go, Be said, mming the door open and rushing out. Chance and Yeo ran after her.


    The kid isnt in any immediate danger, is he? Chance asked as they ran, darting past people on the walkways and drawing no shortage of irritated nces.


    Probably not, but we have no way to know for sure. If Maria was really reced by a Greater Imp, it might know were on the case and elerate whatever its doing, Be replied. They sprinted around a corner, nearly bowling an old woman over in the process. Yeo yelled an apology without stopping.


    Were sure shes an Imp, right? Yeo asked.


    Chance will check when we get there, Be replied. Ice crept along her fists and rose up her arms. Our main priority is making sure the kid is safe. Well try to save the mother afterward. If we were speaking with a Greater Imp, it probably still has her around somewhere.


    If it is a Greater Imp, it might have a way to tell were here, Yeo said. Maria did greet us really early when west arrived. Might be best not to knock politely.


    They reached the Graywall district and ran up to Marias house. The lights in the kitchen were still on, but the curtains were drawn shut and he couldnt see in through any of the windows.


    Be took Yeos warning literally as she threw her shoulder into the door, knocking it off its hinges with a loud crash. Chance opened his third eye as they stepped into the house, scanning for any trace of Karma threads.


    Maria? Yeo called, spinning his kusarigama at his side as his eyes swept the room. We need to talk with you. Are you here?


    There was no response. Chance didnt me her. If she wasnt actually a Greater Imp, he was pretty sure he wouldnt have responded to people breaking into his house either. They advanced into the kitchen.


    The dough rested on the counter, where Maria had left it when they were leaving. Chances eyes narrowed. A tiny blur at the edge of his vision caught his attention, but Be moved faster than he could react.


    A loud ng echoed through the kitchen as she batted a knife out of the air with an ice-covered fist. It hade from somewhere in the direction of what Chance suspected to be the living room, but he couldnt tell for sure because the curtains were drawn and the lights were off. Somehow, the light from the kitchennterns couldnt pierce into the shadows.


    Magical darkness, Yeo warned. Ive seen this before, and unless Maria is some sort of shadow cultivator, weve got a monster on our hands.


    Another kitchen knifeunched from the shadows. Yeo snapped his fingers and it froze midair. It vibrated, thenunched into his free hand.


    Oopsie. Not much aura control, Yeo observed, dropping the de on the ground. He shifted, trying to get a better look into the darkness, but Chance couldnt see anything beyond the doorway. Another point in the favor of a monster.


    You talk as if your aura control is much better, Be said tersely. Wheres the child, Imp?


    Why are you attacking me? I havent done anything wrong, Maria called from somewhere within the other room.


    You suck at this, Yeo said. That was the fakest plea Ive ever heard. Dont you think you should have tried doing that <em>before </em>slinging a knife at us?


    You broke into my house!


    Yeo flicked his kusarigama and it shot into the darkness. It nged against something, and he yanked it back, his eyes narrow. Youve got awful fast reflexes, Miss Smit. Are you a cultivator?


    Chance focused on his third eye, pouring more Essence into it. If his real eyes couldnt see through the shadows, maybe he could spot the threads of Karma connected to the woman.


    Youre attacking a helpless woman. Ill make sure your leaders are informed of this! Maria yelled.


    If you were really scared for your life, youd be screaming a lot louder, Be growled. Id know. Youd better switch to the offensive, Imp. We arent buying it.


    Silence was their only response, but that was more than enough confirmation than any of them needed.


    Tiny threads appeared in the shadows near the back corner of the room, growing brighter the more Chance focused on them. He couldnt make out any images from the distance they were at, but the rough outline they formed in the shadows was absolutely not Maria.


    It was a little taller than Chance and nearly twice his width, with a potbelly and bulbous head. Strands of karmic debt hung off the creature like a robe, extending in hundreds of directions. He grit his teeth in anger.


    <em>Why didnt I actually watch the image of her in Abes bond? I would have found out immediately. They had a big connection  Im such a damn idiot. </em>


    Among all the other connections the Imp had, Chance couldnt tell which one led to Abe. There were several dozen thick ones, and any of them could have been the childs.


    We need to try not to kill it, Chance whispered. In case Abe is missing, I can use the karmic debt to figure out where he is.


    Be gave him a slight nod, not taking her eyes off the doorway. Agreed. But we need to find a way to see it first. If we go into those shadows, well have our throats ripped out in seconds. I cant fight something I cant see.


    While they spoke, Chance could see the imp edging toward the edge of the room. He couldnt see anything there, but something told him there was either a window or a door. If the monster slipped out, he got the feeling they might never find Abe.


    On it! Chance said, darting into the shadows.


    Chance, no! Be yelled, but hed already entered the room. He flicked his wrist and the urumi shot out. Even though he couldnt see what he was doing, Chance had been using the weapon for long enough that the more basic attacks were starting to be natural.


    The de curved around and cut into the Greater Imp, drawing a pained hiss from the creature. Threads of karma moving was Chances only warning as the creature lunged at him. He dove back, feeling the rush of wind pass over his head as what he suspected to be jagged ws whipped past him.


    I can see it, Chance yelled back, retracting his urumi and thrusting it at the monsters chest. It jumped back, and theck of reaction told Chance he hadnt connected. The Greater Imp was a fair bit faster than most of the Soothounds hed fought  but not the fully grown one.


    He lunged, taking the creature by surprise as his hand wrapped around one of therger karmic threads. Chance had selected one that was smaller than Abes, just to make sure he didnt mistakenly lose their connection to the boy.


    Golden light glittered, pushing the shadows back as the form of a thin, rake-like man came into being. In the glow, Chance caught his first glimpse of the Greater Imp. The monster had ruddy red skin and a face like a pug mixed with an ugly child,plete with gristle and two jutting fangs.


    The man lunged at the Imp, driving a glowing fist into its cheek. The blow snapped the Imps head back and it hissed, swiping at him. Its short ws passed harmlessly through the smoke, but the spell dissipated shortly after, casting the room back into darkness.


    Do that again! Yeo yelled.


    The Greater Imp lunged at Chance again, forcing him to scramble back on all fours. He rolled to the side andshed out with his urumi. The de cut across the monsters potbelly and it screamed in fury.


    Ill kill you, boy! The Imp abandoned all attempts of mimicking Maria, letting the crye out in a ragged, raspy voice. It leapt at him and Chance rolled forward, snagging another one of the karmic threads as he came up and pulling on it.


    Energy red and the room shed once more. Before the form of a young woman could even fully take shape, Yeos kusarigama flickered through the darkness. It carved a deep groove into the Imps side and ck blood spilled out, sshing across the ground.


    A gold fist crashed down on the monsters head, but this time, it was ready. It ignored the blow andshed out at Chance, who was still well within striking range. He tried to twist out of the way, but it was too fast.


    An instant before the jagged ws bit into his skin, the light from his spell gave out and the room plunged back into darkness. Wind rushed past him and a chime rang out. An instantter, the imp grunted in pain and, through the karmic threads connected to it, Chance saw its head snap back.


    Doesnt matter if I cant see you when Im holding your arm, Be snarled. Her words were punctuated by a crunch, and Chance winced as he realized the monsters forehead had caved in. She drove two more brutal blows into the creature, sending it crumpling to the ground with a strangled cry.

 Chapter 29: Joe

    Chapter 29: Joe


    The shadows in the room vanished as it fell and Yeo darted in, his eyes flicking about for any more sign of enemies. Chances heart thundered in his chest as he rose to his feet, vividly aware of how close hede to spilling his guts out across the floor.


    Be held one of the Imps hands with one hand, and ice had traveled down it, freezing the two together. Her other hand was encased in a sphere of ice that dripped with the Imps ck ichor.


    Do whatever you were doing, Chance, Be ground out.


    He scrambled into motion, squinting at the strings. He started with the ones that he recalled being approximately Abes size and was relieved to quickly spot the proper one. It went straight up through the roof, presumably onto the second floor of the house.


    I think hes above us, Chance said. There arent any other strands going in that direction, so I dont think there are enemies there. None associated with this thing, at least.


    Good. We can kill it, then, Be said.


    Wait, Chance said, squinting at thergest of the karmic strands and bringing the images out. He wasnt about to miss important information  not again.


    Through the golden light, Chance caught shes of several other Imps  at least, he was fairly sure they were different. They all looked pretty simr. Before the visions ended, they came to a stop on arge, purple skinned Imp that was nearly twice the size of the one on the ground before them.


    The Imp lurched, lunging and reaching out for Chance. Bes hand swung down, striking it with such force that its head rebounded off the ground. The monster went still. She ripped her hand away, shattering the ice connecting them.


    Thanks, Chance said, his voice trembling slightly. Even though it wasnt his first time in a fight with a monster, this one had actually <em>talked. </em>Also, as unsettling as Yamish was, his presence wasforting. At least, if he told himself that, the Old City felt a bit less terrifying. I wish I got a chance to look at more of those threads. This is bigger than we think it is.


    I gathered that much considering there was a Greater Imp in someones house, Be growled. The ice covering her arms melted away. That wasnt bad, though  even if you did charge into the darkness like an idiot.


    I could see it, Chance protested.


    But <em>we </em>couldnt, Yeo said, taking one of the gray marbles from a pouch and flicking it onto the monsters body. The Greater Imp disappeared into a streamer of light, flooding into the marble, which Yeo picked up. You were basically fighting on your own. Its a good thing you managed to get some light for a few seconds, or things might have gone really badly. We didnt even get a Ward down!


    Oh shit, Chance said. I forgot about Wards.


    He nced around the living room. His urumi had made several cuts through the wooden walls and carpet. Oops.


    Be grimaced. I forgot about it too, actually. We need to go find the kid and see if hes okay. Thats priority number one. Chance, did you manage to see if the real Maria was anywhere?


    No, Chance said, shaking his head. I was trying to sift through the karmic threads when the stupid thing attacked again.


    Hopefully shes still alive, Yeo said. If the boy is still in this house, theres a good chance that she is too. Maybe you can try to track the Karma between him and his mom?


    Chance frowned. Id think that, but I apparently didnt even notice it thest time I looked. There are some weird karmic rules that I think I might not understand that might stop them from being linked.


    Doesnt matter, Be said. She extended her hand to help Chance off the ground. Lets find the kid and search the house for Maria.


    The movement revealed several gouges in her arm, where the imps ws had broken through her ice shield and carved into her skin.


    Holy shit, youre hurt! Chance eximed.


    Be nced down at her arm. Ice crept over the wound, sealing it shut. Ill be fine. It got me when I blocked its first attack. My ice wasnt thick enough. If Id been using water, I would have been fine.


    Chance pressed his lips together and rose to his feet on his own. Im sorry. Those are my fault.


    Yep, Be agreed. But dont let that bother you. Injuries happen in battle, and youll probably end up getting hurt protecting me at some point. This was far from perfect, but we didnt exactly have the luxury of what we thought would be a much simpler fight. Trust me,pared to how I normally came back from my solo jobs, this is nothing.


    Chance clenched his hands. His actions had directly resulted in a friend getting hurt. That was the exact thing he was trying to avoid. Still, Bes words rang true in his head and he gave her a curt nod.


    I wont let that happen again because of a stupid mistake. Ill be more careful in the future.


    Good, Be replied. Now lets go find Abe. Hes probably scared shitless in a closet somewhere. No child should have to live through something like this.


    Her prediction proved correct. After only a few minutes of searching upstairs, Yeo located Abe lying unconscious in his bed. Chance swept the boy with his third eye, checking back over every thread of karmic debt, but the connection to the Imp was gone and none of the rest roused any suspicion.


    Yeo gently tapped the boy on the face, but Abe didnt react.


    Magically induced sleep, Be said. The Imp probably put him out after we left and didnt get a chance toe up and grab him to use as a bargaining tool when we barged into the house.


    Is that bad? Chance asked. How do we break him out of it?


    Im not sure, Be admitted as Yeo gently picked Abe up and slung him over a shoulder. We should bring him to a Shikari base. Someone there should know what to do. I didnt really deal with jobs like this when I was working on my own.


    They searched the rest of the house, but there were no traces of Maria.


    We should get Abe to safety before we do anything else, Be said. Chance nodded his agreement.


    What kid of jobs <em>did </em>you do? Yeo asked as they left the house, moving at a brisk pace. Chance cringed as they stepped over the destroyed doorway. He was starting to see why Pete couldnt make any profit on his jobs. That door looked expensive.


    Ones that didnt involve anyone else, Be replied tly.


    Chance expected curious nces at the minimum as they walked through the streets, but he was surprised to find that not a single person even nced twice in their direction. When he voiced his surprise, Be justughed.


    This is far from the strangest thing anyone has seen in Gleam, Chance. You get used to it and start ignoring everything that isnt involved with you that looks strange. Thats the best way to keep yourself from getting killed.


    Thats kind of depressing, Chance said. What if someone needs help?


    Well, Im sure people asionally step in, Be corrected. But its not safe. Thats what Shikari patrols are for. Thats why they  we  get paid so well. So the people living normally in Gleam dont have to worry about it.


    Chance scrunched his nose in distaste. I guess. I still feel like you should help someone if you can. Its not like the Shikari can be everywhere.


    Thats where youre wrong, Yeo said, shifting Abe on his shoulder. They can. Especially for anything major. Situations like this, where only a few people are involved, are a lot slower. But for serious stuff? Believe me. The Shikari will be there. Especially the powerful ones.


    Chance let the matter drop. It wasnt worth pressing any further, even though he still strongly disagreed with the idea of not stepping in to help when it was possible.


    They drew up to arge, stone tower on a street corner a few minutester. Chance craned his head back, counting off the floors in his head  there were ten. Each one was separated by a jutting balcony that ringed the square building.


    Loud conversation came from inside, and the clink of utensils on silverware marked the building as some sort of tavern. Through one of manyrge windows ringing the building, Chance could see dozens of men and women sitting around wooden tables.


    Shikari base? Chance guessed.


    Most of them look like this, Be said with a nod she pushed the door open and golden light spilled out, washing over them as they walked inside.


    Arge man wearing nothing but a leather apron and short cloth pants that were far too tight for him smiled as they approached him behind a counter. Muscles rippled over his chest, glistening with oil.


    He made most of the greatest bodybuilders on Earth look like theyd been cking off, but somehow managed to look proportionallyrge. When they arrived before him, Chance realized why  the man was easily eight feet tall. A single strand of ck hair stuck out of the top of his head, curled overzily.


    New faces. You can call me Joe, the man said, his voice a low purr and about as far from what Chance had expected to him to sound like as possible. He sniffed the air, then smiled. Oh, youre <em>really </em>new. Foundlings for sure. Whats with the child?


    I think hes under some sort of magically induced sleep, Be said. We defeated the Greater Imp that was taking the form of his mother, but we werent able to find her.


    Joe took Abe from Yeo andid him down on the counter. He gently pulled one of the boys eyelids back with a single finger and peered down at him, then let it close and leaned back.


    Kid should be fine. Greater Imps dont usually kill their targets. If you didnt find the womans body, shes still out there somewhere. Greater Imps arent all that strong anyway, but from youre smell, youre <em>really </em>green. You only just got your Wards. Why are you going after a Greater Imp for your first or second job? You should start smaller.


    They all rxed at the news.


    It was supposed to be a Lesser Imp, Yeo said. And that one is still running around. We realized the kids mom was reced because she was acting strange when we interviewed her.


    Thats concerning, Joe said, pursing hisrge lips. I dont like this at all. Multiple Imps working together usually doesnt bode well for anyone. Damn little nuisances. J, take over the counter for me. Im heading out.


    A woman wearing a frilly maid outfit bounded out from a door behind him, an excited grin on her face. She pulled herself up and swung her legs over the counter, kicking them in excitement. Okay! I love counter duty.


    Chance did his best not to stare, but he couldnt help but notice she had a long, wicked looking machete strapped to one of her legs. Joe patted her on the head, his enormous hand nearlypletely engulfing her face for a moment before he let go.


    Dont worry, Joe said. Shes small, but she can handle any problems that rise up. Finding our missing mother is the most important thing to do right now, and Ive got a good sniffer.


    Chance was pretty sure not a single one of them had been worried about Js chances of controlling the Shikari. As far as he could tell, everyone in the room was more than content to just sit around and eat peacefully.


    Youreing with us? Yeo asked.


    No. Youreing with me, Joe corrected. He extended a hand and a ring on one of his fingers lit with a dull glow. Energy poured out of it, forming into arge metal disk akin to a sewer cover. You know what thedy looks like, and some visual confirmation will be nice when we find her. Makes the paperwork easier. After that, well be reporting this to a higher-up. Youre in over your heads with this job.


    Joe sat down on the center of the metal disk. Come on. Sit. And hold on. I dont drive slow.

 Chapter 30: Responsibility

    Chapter 30: Responsibility


    They awkwardly crowded in around him. Chance barely had a chance to ask what Joe meant by that before the disk lurched into the air. He helped, grabbing onto therge mans arm as they rocketed away.


    Wind struck Chance like a hammer, nearlyunching him off instantly. He managed to cling onto Joe as the howling air yanked away his surprised cry. Gleam blurred past them  for all of a second. Then it was over, and they were on the ground again.


    Chance, who had been fluttering in the air like a g, flopped down with a thud. He groaned and sat back up. They were in the Graywall district  no more than a few minutes walk from the Shikari base. Joe had set them down a bit farther than theyd gone before, just in front of a small park. What was that?


    Air travel, Joe said, rising to his feet. The metal te turned into a beam of energy and shot back into his ring. Youll probably find a way to do it yourself soon enough. Its very convenient.


    Agree to disagree, Be said. Chance nced at her and suppressed a chokingugh. Her curly hair stuck out in every direction and waspletely frazzled. She ran her hands through it, trying to detangle the mess, but that only managed to make it worse.


    Yeo, whose hair was tied back in a ponytail, had no such difficulties. He also didnt attempt to suppress hisugh. Be red at him.


    Save it. We need to find Maria, Be said, giving up on attempting to control her hair.


    Right you are. Joe smoothed his single hair down. It sprung back into its proper ce as soon as he released it. Therge man tilted his head back and sniffed the air. I smell her. She doesnt smell dead, so no need to worry.


    Where? Chance asked, ncing around.


    Joe pointed at the park. In there. I smell an Imp as well. Probably the lesser one you three were supposed to be hunting.


    He ambled toward it, and the three of them trailed after him. Unlike the park that Be had taken him to, this one was actually green. Small, bushy trees lined its sides and a tiny creek ran through the center of it. At the far end, there were severalrger trees in a cluster. A smallke sat in their shade, with a bench overlooking it.


    They drew up to the cluster of trees and Joe cocked his head to the side. Then he was gone. Wind buffeted Chance as it rushed past him to fill the void where the muscr man had been standing.


    Leaves rustled in the cluster of trees and a blobby red body flew out from them. It mmed into the ground, its limbs windmilling around it as it bounced and skidded until it came to a stop at their feet.


    About a second ago, it had been an Imp. Now, calling it a corpse might have been exaggerating how much was left. The monsters body had caved in and was partially ttened, like it had been caught under a steamroller.


    Ichor leaked from its body, bubbling up through every spot it could. Joe strode out of the forest, Marias body slung over his shoulder.


    I located the Imp, Joe proimed. It, unfortunately, did not survive.


    You dont say, Yeo said. Dont you think this was overkill?


    Joe rubbed his head and gave them a sheepish smile. That was the weakest punch I could muster, Im afraid.


    Forget that, Be said. Is the woman okay? Howd she get to the forest? She should have been near her house for the Greater Imp to be copying her, right?


    It looks like she was transported here recently, Joe replied. I scanned the area, but I didnt find any trace of other monsters. Well have to fill in a request for a higher level Shikari to take a look around. This is her, right?


    Yeah, that looks like Maria, Chance said, still in awe at how fast Joe had moved. He logically knew that cultivators could be powerful, and by all rights, Yamish and Vex were examples of that, but this was the first time hed really seen just how much power they really had  and something told him that Yamish was leagues more powerful than Joe.


    Fantastic, Joe said. He nced at the Imp and grimaced. I dont want to waste a Collector on that. One of you is wee to take it yourselves. Ill take this youngdy back to the Shikari base and make sure she and her son are properly treated. Youve all done very well.


    What about the other Imps involved? Yeo asked. It feels like there was more to this than what we saw.


    That wont be your concern,d, Joe said with a chuckle. Youve done more than your part already, and Ill be sure to make note of that. This isnt a Foundling level job. Let the stronger Shikari handle it.


    Yeo pursed his lips but nodded. Understood. Thanks for your help.


    Of course. Im always happy to take a little trip with my beloved juniors, Joe said with a wide smile. He extended a hand and his ring lit once more, creating the metal disk beneath his feet. Care to travel back with me?


    I think were good, Be said. Well just swing by the base on the way back to confirm the job is done and turn in the Greater Imp we defeated.


    Whatever you want, Joe said with a shrug. Take care, kids. Make sure you put some jackets on too. Its getting cold.


    Then he was gone, little more than a streaking blur fading into the evening sky. Chance shuddered.


    I hope we never do that again.


    Not as much as me, Be grumbled, still trying to tame her hair to no sess. At least that turned out fairly well overall.


    Is this kind of thingmon? Chance asked. Getting stronger monsters than we were supposed to during jobs.


    Not at all, Be replied, giving up on her hair and letting out an irritated sigh. I think it happened to me once or twice when I was working alone, and I did dozens of jobs.


    Lucky us, Chance said.


    Be and Yeo both stared at him.


    What? You think this was because of me?


    No, Be said, studying him closely. Probably not. But you <em>do </em>cultivate Karma. Youll have to be really careful with anything that just seems like luck or happenstance, Chance.


    Especially now that you arent on Earth, Yeo added. When you be a more powerful cultivator, its really possible that things might just start happening around you. That feels like something that could realistically happen to a Karma cultivator.


    I think Ill worry about that when I get there, Chance decided. Lets go turn that orb thing in and see if we managed to make any profit after breaking down Marias door.


    The trio did just that, arriving at the Shikari base after a few minutes of walking. They stepped inside and Chance froze in the doorway.


    In the short time that theyd been gone, it looked like a tornado had been set off in the center of the room. Tables were strewn across the ground. Cultivators were strewn across the ground and draped over smashed tables.


    Even stranger, the people that were still conscious didnt seem to care in the slightest. Theyd just moved away from the wreckage or  in the case of one group  continued sitting at their upside down table, eating as if nothing had changed.


    Chance stepped over an unconscious man in their way and nced at his friends to see if either of them were as confused as he was. He was relieved to find that they both looked equally as stupefied.


    Uh what happened? Chance asked.


    J, the maid that Joe had tasked with looking after the base before hed left, hopped down from the counter and strutted up to them.


    We got a bit rowdy, J said with an embarrassed giggle. She tapped a fist against her head and cocked it to the side. Oopsie.


    Is, uh, Joe back yet?


    Mr. Joe is taking the civilians to an apothecary, J replied. Im managing the base right now.


    I see, Chance said diplomatically. Weve got a Greater Imp to turn in. A Lesser one too. Is this the ce to do that?


    Sure is, J said cheerfully. She knelt beside arge, unconscious man. He had a bushy ck beard and a tattered hide jacket. The maid gently prodded him in the side. He didnt budge, which earned him a second, slightly harder prod.


    Burget, wakey-wakey, J said cheerfully. Youve got some orbs to collect!


    Burget snorted and mumbled something under his breath. His eyes fluttered and he rolled over, fast asleep.


    Wake up, youzy piece of shit! J screamed, her face contorting in fury as she grabbed him by the hair. She yanked the man upright and pped him hard across the face with the other hand.


    Burget let out a strangled gasp and his eyes shot open. He raised a hand to his cheek, which was quickly turning red. Whu- huh? I was sleeping. What do you want?


    Burget, dearest, weve got some young impressionable Shikari whod like to turn in their orbs, J said, instantly reverting to her polite smile. She fluttered her eyshes at therge man. Please take their orbs so they can get on with their night. Im sure they have a lot of things to kill, like all responsible children do.


    Right, sure, Burget muttered. He thrust his hand out. Give em here.


    Burget, J warned, her voice dropping an octave. Be a good example for the kids.


    Burget grimaced. He straightened up and adjusted his jacket, then cleared his throat. Ill take your orbs, young Shikari. Youll receive payment to your house once the analysis of your job has beenpleted and any damage to the city has been repaired.


    They handed Burget the two orbs, who slipped them into his pockets. He nced at J, who gave him an approving nod before punching him hard in the chin, sending the man spinning. He copsed back to the ground, snoring before he even hit it.


    There we go, J said, brushing her hands off. Is there anything else I can help you with? Some food, perhaps?


    I think were quite alright, Chance said. Thank you, Miss J.


    Oh, Miss! Nobody calls me Miss, J said, her eyes lighting up. I like that. Youre so polite. Pleasee again soon. Its a wee change.


    Chance nodded empathetically as he slowly backed out of the Shikari base. Yeo and Be slipped out the door with him. As soon as they were out of line of sight, all three elerated.


    Shes got more than a few screws loose, Yeo said. Kinda cool, though.


    She might need some professional help, Chance said carefully. What do you think the chances are that J caused all that destruction we saw?


    I dont bet on things, but Id bet on that, Be said.


    Are Shikari bases always this crazy? Yeo asked. Ive never been to one outside of my town.


    Not sure, Be admitted. I know where they are, but Ive never really used them much. I always reported directly to Pete because of the whole solo Fledgling situation.


    Weird, Yeo said. I hope we didnt lose too much money for mowing thatdys door down.


    Even with the sun setting, the streets of Gleam were stillrgely lit by glowing signs and the floating inds above. They reached the Whiteheart house several hourster, after a long walk back through the streets of Gleam.


    Chance was relieved when they finally made it back, having half expected to get pulled into someone elses Ward on the way back. The sun had long since set, and weariness had quickly set into all three of them.


    They headed up to their rooms and copsed into bed, allowing sleep to beckon them into its arms.

 Interlude 2

    Interlude 2


    Grants breath came out in puffs of white vapor as he staggered through the tight alleys. The axe in his hand grew heavier with every step and his body groaned with every movement. Blood trickled from dozens of cuts that lined his body, soaking into his clothes and turning them stiff in the cold.


    He pressed his back to a cracked gray wall. A Soothound skittered, its body mming into the wall opposite to him. Grants axe shed as the monster leapt at him. More blood sttered across him as the two halves of the monster thumped to the ground beside him.


    Theres no goddamn end to these creatures. Grant spat on the monsters corpse, pushing away from the wall and staggering deeper into the alleys. Hed killed hundreds of the monsters at this point, but there was just no end to them. Never should have taken this damn job.


    Three more of the creatures sprinted out of the alley in front of him. Grant thrust his hand forward, spending more of his dwindling energy to send threences of light through the creatures. They tumbled across each other, and he stepped over their bodies.


    He desperately needed to find somewhere to rest, but the alleyways were like an endless maze. Backtracking his steps was impossible, no matter what he did, all that greeted him were alleys. Alleys and Soothounds.


    Grant bent over, resting a palm on his knees as he drew ragged breaths. Another Soothound leaped at him as soon as his gaze was averted. He growled, batting the monster out of the air with the back of his hand and bringing his axe down on top of it, silencing the dogs yelp of pain.


    Hello? Grant called. Is anyone here?


    The alleys didnt respond, but the skittering behind him was getting louder. Hed stopped to try and see what it was a few hours ago  and promptly regretted the decision as what must have been hundreds of Soothounds poured into the alley like a ck wave.


    Hed nearly been buried beneath them, and had to waste several expensive items and the vast majority of his energy to escape. Soothounds werent particrly powerful on their own, but there were just too damn many of the little pests.


    It was pathetic. A Knight rank Shikari brought low by Soothounds. Grant gritted his teeth. If I ever get out of this shithole, Iming back with an army. If the Shikari knew how many of you little nippy shits were here, theyd have a heart attack.


    The response was several new monsters leaping from the shadows. Grant cut them down, but one caught his arm with its jaws even as his axe split it in two. Even in death, its teeth scraped against his hardened skin, ripping flesh.


    Grant snarled, kicking the creatures corpse. It didnt even make him feel any better. He was slowing down. There was only so many of the monsters he could handle  but he couldnt give up. Not yet.


    He staggered onward, pressing through the alleys in search of escape. Shadowy smoke twisted above, but he didnt dare try to climb out again  the first time hed tried, an invisible force had mmed him back to the ground with enough force to shatter his spine. Hed wasted an incredibly expensive pill on fixing that.


    Turning the corner into yet another alley, Grant froze. A man floated upside-down in the air before him, his purple robes draped around him.


    Thank the heavens, Grant said, even as unease bloomed in his chest. A cultivator. Do you know how to get out of this infernal maze? Please, help me.


    The man uncrossed his legs and walked across the air until his feet were properly situated below him. Grants skin prickled and he drew on what little remained of his Essence, empowering his eyes to peer at the mans aura.


    A ck wave of Essence mmed down on Grant and he screamed as he was mmed to the ground by the sheer pressure of the mans presence. He forced his Essence away before his retinas were crushed by the overwhelming force.


    Y-youre a God, Grant stammered. He pressed his forehead to the ground, not daring to look back up. I was just on a job to find a missing Imp. I swear, I meant no offense. I must have somehow stumbled into your domain.


    So many ties, the man murmured, as if Grants words hadnt even reached his ears. So much debt.


    Grant swallowed, his cracked and dry throat aching. He didnt dare speak unless the man addressed him. The Soothounds in pursuit of him had stopped, but Grant didnt me them. He would have taken his chances in the alleys had he possessed the sense to check the mans strength before approaching.


    You will suffice, the man said. Grant felt thest vestiges of his strength vanish as what felt like a string attached to his head and dragged him upright. His limbs dangled helplessly at his sides and he stared into the two, pitch ck voids of the Gods eyes. The Old City epts your offering as payment for the karmic debt that you ensured within it. Approach the afterlife with the knowledge that your meaningless life now has worth.


    The God ran a long, slender finger across Grants jawline, tracing a line down to his chest. Darkness encroached on the edges of Grants vision. His body creaked as it started to bend and warp.


    Grant couldnt even scream. His vision turned to a pinpoint. Thest thing he saw was his axe  its ck, gnarled wood handle and polished metal head glimmering as gold light poured off his body. Then he was no more.

 Chapter 31: Many ways

    Chapter 31: Many ways


    Two weeks went by, and the pay for their first job arrived in the form of a bulky letter that was slipped through a slot in their front door. As it turned out, the monsters theyd brought into the Shikari base hadted them a total of fifty gold  forty for the Greater Imp and ten for the Lesser. Marias door cost thirty gold, but she had refused to ept payment from the Shikari Guild, so they had not been docked for their damages.


    Yeo had suggested they spend all money on gear upgrades, while Be said it would be better if they put it into a bank. Chance was more interested in figuring out how much money it would cost to track his parents down.


    They all decided to cultivate first, then deal with what to do with their moneyter, and so they retreated to their rooms. Several days in, what Chance could only describe as a wave of energy washed over him, ripping him out of his meditation.


    Hed rushed out of the room, only to find Bes doorpletely iced over. ck tendrils of frost stretched out along the floor and into the hall like winter had staked im over a portion of the Whiteheart house.


    Pete had ushered him away, saying it was of vital importance not to bother Be until she emerged. Just a dayter, Yeos room followed the same path. Spikes of ferrous metal erupted from his door and down into the kitchen below, nearly stabbing Pete while he was making breakfast.


    By that point, he already had a sneaking suspicion of what was happening, and Pete confirmed it. Both of them were advancing to the Squire rank. Chance had returned to his room, redoubling his focus on meditating, but such things could not be forced.


    If anything, his extra effort only seemed to slow his progress down. Compared to his initial bursts of advancement, all Chance was met with now was frustration. Still, he plugged away, contemting the meaning of Karma and how he could finagle his way into getting to Squire as well.


    He didnt consider himself a particrly prideful person, but he didnt want to be the only one in his team that was a lower rank.


    When his eyes opened and he found himself sitting in the Old City across from Yamish, Chance was almost grateful. They were in the ruined town square once more.


    You are troubled, Yamish observed.


    Yeah. Im pretty sure that my teammates both advanced to the Squire rank, and Im still a Foundling.


    And you are jealous.


    I wouldnt say Im jealous. I just dont want to be left behind.


    Yamish cocked an eyebrow. You are lying to yourself.


    Chance opened his mouth, then closed it with a click. I  well, maybe. I want to get stronger. Magi  uh, Essence is incredible. There was nothing like this on Earth, and its like a dreame true to be able to do all the things I can now. And that makes me want to be able to do more. I guess thats pretty selfish, isnt it?


    <em>And if I cant get stronger, I cant stop whatever it is that youre nning for me.</em>


    It is the path of cultivation. It is why we all seek the truth, Yamish replied. There is nothing wrong with desiring strength. Strength begets happiness. But attempting to force it will lead nowhere.


    I was starting to gather that myself. Also, I guess theyve been cultivating for far longer than I have. It wouldnt make sense for me to progress as quickly as them.


    Yamish cocked his head to the side. Have they?


    I mean, I only got here a month ago.


    Yamish let out a nomittal grunt. Curious. The girls advancement was long in the waiting. Her ties to Vex dyed her by years. Now that she walks her own path, she will find her progress quick until she reaches her proper strength.


    I cant imagine Vex is very happy about that, Chance said nervously. Is he going to cause her trouble?


    Yes, Yamish replied. Almost certainly.


    Can you


    No.


    Right. karmic ties.


    Correct, Yamish said. I have already done more than you know. If I had not, the girl would be dead. Vex already ns to break our promise, but in a way that he believes I will not notice.


    Thats concerning. Thank you for what youve already done to help, though. Oh, what about Yeo? Hes advancing as well, isnt he?


    He ispetitive. The drive will serve him well.


    I cant help but notice he advanced right after Be. Do you think


    She drove him to advance? It is possible. I hold no great interest in either of yourpanions. We have no karmic ties.


    Thats probably for the best, Chance muttered. He nced around the square. So, why am I here this time? I dont see any monsters.


    It will arrive.


    That wasnt ominous at all. Chance couldnt help but notice that there was a very distinctck of an urumi in his general vicinity. I dont have my weapon. Did you forget to bring it over?


    No. The Old City will aid you in solving your troubles. Thus, you will not need a weapon.


    Wait, its helping me? Chance asked. But I thought I was the one that owed it karmic debt! Isnt this going to make it worse?


    Yamish shook his head. Gifts that are paid for cannot establish debt. The Old City judges your cleansing of its streets to be equal pay for its assistance in your advancement.


    Chance swallowed. Okay. So, what do I do?


    You cultivate, Yamish replied. Chance blinked, then sat down and crossed his legs, preparing to start meditating. It certainly wouldnt have been the strangest thing Yamish had made him do.


    Heavy footfalls echoed from the darkness, apanied by the heavy scrape of metal on stone. A bulbous purple Imp tottered out of an alleyway, two curled horns jutting out of its forehead. The creatures beady ck eyes fell on Chance and it stepped further into the square, dragging a gnarled ck axe along the stone behind it.


    Chance leapt to his feet. Yamish, how am I supposed to cultivate while theres a monster here?


    There are many ways to cultivate, Yamish replied. I suggest you start by dodging.


    The Imp let out a warbling cry and loped toward Chance. The hideous screech of metal on the cobbled stone filled the alley. It wasnt nearly as fast as the Soothound, but the monster was nimble for its warped body.


    Chances third eye opened, and strands of karma shimmered into being around the imp. There were dozens, and many were thick. He darted back as the Imp blurred into motion, bringing its axe crashing down on the ground where hed been seconds before.


    It swung again, not giving him a chance to get close enough to one of the strands. Chance cursed, dipping back while wishing he still had his urumi. The Imp screeched and raced after him, forcing Chance to turn tail and run.


    They ran around the arena, Chance just barely able to keep his lead over the Imp. He did his best to contemte Karma and cultivate like Yamish had suggested, but it wasnt particrly easy when he could feel the Imps rancid breath on his neck.


    Chance threw himself into a diagonal roll, narrowly avoiding an axe swing, and plucked one of the karmic strands near the Imps feet. A glowing fist mmed into its stomach, knocking the air out of it, but faded before the rest of the body could form.


    The attack only served to make his opponent angrier. The Imp screamed in fury and leapt at him. Chance dove, just barely passing under the monsters swing. He shot back to his feet and took off before it couldnd a lucky blow.


    <em>Karma, Luck, Essence  gah. I cant focus on this. Theres a monster trying to kill me. How are you supposed to be rxed and contemtive when your head is one good chop from being removed from its rightful position?</em>


    The Imp screeched, rudely interrupting Chances thoughts. He spun, twisting his body to the side as the weapon just barely missed him once more, then grabbed another karmic strand. A golden w raked across the Imps chest and blood poured out, staining the stone beneath it red.


    Chance ran away again. Snarling, the monster hounded after him, hatred burning in its eyes. It was getting faster. The blows were growing closer to Chance every swing, leaving him with literally no time to think about anything other than the fight.


    Every fiber of his being had to be focused. The slightest distraction would spell an axe in his head and the end of his excursion on Centurion. Unbeknownst to him, the thoughts that had been bouncing around in the back of his head were banished as well.


    The longing to find his parents. His awe of Yeos abilities and of Bes sacrifices. His appreciation for Petes kindness and his desire to grow stronger. All of it faded. And, in that absence of thought, warmth bloomed.


    Searing heat wrapped around Chances heart in a feeling he knew all too well. It spread into his veins, spiderwebbing throughout his body and raising in temperature steadily. Chance grimaced, trying to push it back, but it would not be denied.


    The Imp spotted Chances weakness and leapt at him, bringing the axe down for his neck. Then it was gone, sttered into the ground by a massive golden hand that appeared from the air above its head. Even its axe had been crushed t.


    Do not resist it, Yamish said. Do not let anything slip past you.


    Chance barely registered his words. The heat was so intense that he felt like his blood was boiling. He slumped to the ground, gasping for air as golden light bloomed in his vision. It slowly enveloped the Old City, and he saw no more.


    The burning in his chest faded into the background and awareness nudged its way back. Chance groaned as shapes started to appear in the gold, tracing themselves in line by line. He wiped his eyes with the back of a hand and tried to squint through the light.


    He wasnt in the Old City anymore. Chance sat on a soft red rug in what could be described only as an enormous auditorium. It stretched out in every direction as far as the eye could see, eventually reaching massive, mural covered walls.


    The building was so big that clouds had gathered on the ceiling, but he could still make out faint flickers of artwork behind them. Hundreds of thousands of other rugs wereid across the ground in even rows, but they were all empty.


    But none of that was what caught his attention. They were simply mere flickers of information before every fiber of his mind abruptly became aware of the <em>being </em>in the center of the room.


    A massive, featureless man with glowing golden skin sat cross-legged on a mat the size of a small stadium. He towered above the room, his head nearly brushing the clouds. Eight arms extending from his back formed a circle behind him, framing the enormous figure.


    Dull roaring filled Chances ears. A massive, invisible ocean of energy filled the room, pressing down in on him from every side. Somehow, Chance knew that the only thing keeping his consciousness from being snuffed out like a candle was the rug he sat on.


    The Essence in the room spiraled around the seated man, forming a whirlpool of glittering light near his chest. Chance stared, enraptured. He couldnt have torn his eyes away from the scene if he wanted to.


    His eyes were drawn to the center of the vortex, where a mote of dark Essence was growing in mans chest. He realized that there were actually six more of the dots, in a straight line starting at the top of the mans head and ending just below his hips.


    The world shuddered. Pieces of the ground snapped and were sucked into the vortex of light, revealing a sea of stars surrounding them. They glittered like the eyes of an eldritch god, watching as the auditorium was torn apart, piece by piece.


    Chances teeth vibrated as the rumbling grew louder. The light faded as features started to grow more defined on the mans enormous body. His smooth skin gained definition even as the vortex at his chest churned even faster.


    A nose and lips formed, followed by wrinkles formed through years of joyfulughter. Long, gray hair sprouted from the mans head as two brilliant blue eyes slowly opened. For the merest instant, he and Chance made eye contact.


    The man smiled.


    The world shattered.

 Chapter 32: Debt?

    Chapter 32: Debt?


    Chances eyes snapped open, and he shot to his feet with a gasp, his heart thundering. He was in the Old City once again. Bands of heat wrapped around his chest, constricting his heart. The vision of the glowing man rose to his mind unbidden.


    Golden energy swirled around Chance, gathering around his chest in a small vortex. The heat instantly abated, shifting and mirroring the shape of the energy circling him. Then, with a final wave of warmth, something shifted.


    A core formed within Chances chest, just below his heart. The Essence swirling around his body rushed into it and the heat abated, releasing him from its grip. A powerful sense of peace settled over Chance.


    He savored it, closing his eyes and allowing the feeling to wrap around him like aforting nket. It slowly faded away over the next few minutes and he let his eyes drift back open.


    Yamish sat across from him, in the same yogi position that the glowing man had used. You saw it.


    I saw something, Chance said, his words sounding strange to his ears. What was that?


    A vision of another who has walked the same path as you, Yamish replied. His words sounded hungry. The greatest  and only  guidance the universe will ever give you. What was it? Describe the vision.


    Chance opened his mouth, then slowly closed it. He couldnt ce why, but discussing the content of his vison seemed wrong. It was like stripping in a room of people hed never met before.


    Forgive me, but I dont think I should, Chance said carefully. The words once again came to his lips sounding as if someone else spoke, but they felt right. If I did, I think that might establish karmic debt between us.


    Yamishs eyes widened. Your understanding of Karma has grown quickly. Very well. I will not press. If this is your belief, then it should not be challenged. We already have debt enough between us.


    Does that mean you didnt have the same vision as me? Chance asked.


    No two ever have the same vision, Yamish replied. And not all visions are equal. Yours has granted you great insight. When you cultivate in the future, ponder upon it. You will reap great benefits from your seniors understanding of Karma.


    You mean the person I saw  he was real?


    He was, Yamish confirmed. The universe cannot lie. You witnessed a scene that happened at some point in history, though it may have been countless millennia ago.


    You mean this was just like a memory of sorts?


    Yes. There are some who im that their visions interacted with them, but even I cannot imagine the power of a creature who can stretch through time in such a manner.


    Chance thought back to the smile the golden man had given him. Something deep in his soul knew that it had been meant for <em>him</em>, not somebody else. Something even louder screamed that he was absolutely not to share that particr piece of information.


    You have given me great help once again, Chance said, inclining his head. I dont know how long I would have been sitting around trying to meditate had you not helped.


    Not me. The Old City, Yamish corrected. This was its will.


    Chance nced down at the squashed Imp. Uh will I have to eat again?


    Not today, Yamish said. This one was not of the Old City.


    Chance did his best to hide his relief. I see. Yamish, I had another question, but please dont answer it if it establishes any more debt. Why would a mother and her child not have any karmic debt?


    Yamish chuckled. Ponder that question yourself. When the Old City helps you and you help it, who has debt?


    I suppose neither of us, provided weve done equal parts for each other.


    Then you have answered your own question, Yamish said, intecing his fingers.


    Chance frowned, but he realized Yamish was right. He <em>did </em>know the answer. There was more than one way to build and pay karmic debt. Abes mother did just as much for him as he did for her  just in their own ways.


    Thank you. I see now.


    Good, Yamish said. We will not meet again for some time. I have gained a spark of enlightenment from watching you advance, and I must ponder on it. Your debt to the Old City is not yet paid. You will have toe on your own. Do not fear  it knows you now. The streets will give you no threat, so long as you do not venture too deep.


    Chance hid his excitement at those words as best as he could. Yamish had done a lot for him, but every single fiber of his being screamed that the man was dangerous. He needed to find a way to protect himself, and every step he took to separate from Yamish would likely be vital in saving his lifeter.


    How will I know when I need toe? And when will I see you again?


    You will know. And it will be months of your time. Be wary  Vex will take this time to act. I will be disappointed if you fall before providing me with more insight into our path.


    With that, the Old City was gone. Chance sat on his bed, his legs crossed and hands resting on his knees, palms raised to the sky. He blinked, the momentary disorientation already fading away.


    Light filtered in through his window, warming the side of his face. Chance cast his senses inward. The tiny ball of energy still rested below his heart. It grew warmer at the attention, but not unbearably so.


    He slid to his feet and stepped out into the hallway. Both Yeo and Bes rooms had returned to normal, but there were still scars in the wood from their advancements. He approached Yeos door and rapped on it.


    There was no response, so Chance tried Bes room. A few moments after knocking, he heard a shuffle from behind it. A momentter, the door opened to reveal Be.


    Chance! Howd it go?


    Well, I think, Chance replied. It was intense, thats for sure.


    Yeah, Be said, her eyes zing over. She shook her head and smiled. But wow. What business do you have advancing already? I could see Yeo, but youve only been cultivating for what, a month? What did they feed you on Earth?


    <em>If were talking food, it was either the stale Cheeto or a bunch of dead monsters. Not sure which is worse.</em>


    Chanceughed and rubbed the back of his head. Sorry. It just kind of happened.


    Dont apologize for getting stronger, Be said. I didnt realize how much Id been holding myself back with  ah, a lot of things. And Id probably still be stuck if you hadnt stumbled into me and Vex. Thank you.


    It was just lucky. Im d to have helped, even if inadvertently, Chance said, shifting his weight from foot to foot. What happened to Yeo? He was also advancing, right?


    Be snorted. Yeah. He found out that I advanced a few hours before him and has been training ever since. Hes out with Pete right now.


    I probably should have seen thating.


    They headed downstairs. A te of sandwiches sat on the center of the dining table. Be snagged one and offered another to Chance, who took it with a grateful smile. They sat down and ate, letting a few minutes pass in silence.


    Be, after you ranked up, did you feel something in your chest? Chance asked, tapping the spot just below his heart where the warm orb of energy rested.


    Yeah. You made it longer than I did before asking someone  I asked Pete almost as soon as I woke up. He called it the Gate. Its where


    Essence is somehow stored? Chance guessed.


    Yeah, kind of. He said it was more like where Essence waspressed and refined, though its stored there too.


    To get rid of impurities?


    Yeah, thats a big part of it, Be said. The Essence we draw into ourselves when we cultivate is really thin and ineffective. By passing it through the Gate, we can get rid of most of the impurities while also getting it into a state in which we can get more use out of it.


    Interesting, Chance said. Why didnt he tell us about this before we advanced?


    Some people try to force the advancement to get stronger, but if you try to force it, itll just be slower or  if youre really unlucky  you might not have sufficient connection with your Essence and you could permanently damage your Gate with too many impurities.


    Oh yeah, Yeo totally would have rushed it, Chance muttered. Makes sense, but that does make me wonder if every stage is going to be like this. Are we going to have a bunch of marbles rattling around in us by the time we get to the highest rank?


    Beughed. I asked the exact same question. Pete said there are stages where simr bursts of power ur, but he isnt going to tell us what they are and suggests we dont try to find out either. Cultivation is a journey, not a goal.


    Thatst bit sounds like a quote.


    I stole it from Pete, who stole it from someone else.


    Fair enough.


    Oh, theres another thing  now that weve got a Gate, we can use a lot of cultivation resources that would have previously been poisonous to us. Since youre from Earth, it might be a good idea for you to look into them and see if you can find any in your budget that can help get rid of impurities.


    <em>Im pretty sure thats thest thing I need.</em>


    Where are they?


    Apothecaries around the city should sell pills and elixirs, Be replied. Make sure theyre Shikari certified, though. There are a lot of scammers. I woke up a few days ago and spent some time wandering around their shops. I wasnt allowed in before, since only Squire ranks and above can enter  its unbelievable what they im to do. And expensive. Really expensive.


    Nothing goodes for free, Chance grumbled. Ill look around after I get a moment to talk with Pete. Do you happen to know when theyll be back?


    Probably not for a little while, Be replied, polishing off thest of her sandwich. Id guess after dinner. Theyve been pretty busy. For that matter, I should really get back to cultivating myself. Be careful with using any of your abilities right now. Advancing seems to have made mine a little unstable.


    Noted, Chance said. I guess Ill go check out an apothecary then. Do you know where the nearest one is?


    Down Shikari Lane and take a right on Main za Road. Theres one on the corner of the street.


    Whats Main za? I cant read the signs.


    Oh, sorry. I forgot. Its the one with all the restaurants on it.


    Gotcha. Thanks. Chance rose, waving to Be. He went back upstairs to grab his urumi before heading out of the Whiteheart house and starting down the road. His split of the money sat heavy in the pouch at his hip. Anything he spent now would be less he could put toward finding his parents.


    <em>Ill just look around for now. I dont want to spend anything until Pete tells me how much finding people is going to cost.</em>


    Chance reached the end of Shikari Lane and turned onto the busy street. He did his best not to marvel at all the people walking past him in the streets. It had been weeks since hed arrived in Gleam, but Chance had yet to get used to seeing all the differences amongst the people.


    In particr, his eyes kept getting drawn to the varying types of wings that some passersby had. They ranged in size and shape  many of which looked far too small to actually lift anything, but the idea of flying around still tickled his fancy. A shudder ran down Chances spine.


    <em>Okay, flying around when the vehicle isnt a giant metal disk hurtling through the sky. Nice,fortable wings. Those would be fun.</em>


    Chances distraction nearly caused him to bump into a tall, scaled man walking in front of him. He caught himself at thest second and, realizing that hed already made it to a corner in the street, darted out of the flowing river of people to take a look around the nearby shops.


    Even without the ability to actually read any of the signs, it didnt take Chance too long to spot the apothecary that Be was talking about. A tall, slender four story building rose between what he suspected to be a spa and an armory.


    It vaguely resembled the Shikari base, but it was considerably smaller and painted a vibrant forest green. Chance pushed the wooden door open and a bell on it jingled, announcing his presence as he stepped into the shop.


    A faint, earthy smell washed over him. Hints of moss and dirt mixed together with freshly cut grass and equal hints of honey and cinnamon. The shop was dark, with in wooden shelves lining the walls and forming small isles.


    At the back, an old woman sat hunched over a desk beside a stairwell. Her face was partially covered by a wide brimmed, pointed hat that sat askew on her head. Antern hung from a hook just beside her head, rocking to and fro gently.

 Chapter 33: Baba

    Chapter 33: Baba


    The door creaked shut behind Chance and he walked inside, careful to keep his arms close as he studied the shelves. Vial upon vial full of pills sat within them. Some shelves were arranged in an orderly fashion, while others looked like theyd been stuffed full of everything they could hold, and the slightest nudge would send everything within them crashing down.


    There must have been hundreds of pills on the first floor. Fortunately, all of them werebeled by a scrawl of ck ink across faded parchment that was pinned beneath almost all the pill vials.


    Unfortunately, Chance couldnt read a single one of them. He suppressed a curse and approached the old woman, stopping several feet away from her desk. She didnt look up. ss tubing and containers covered the desk before her.


    A golden me flickered beneath several beakers, causing the multicolored liquids within them to bubble and hiss. Plumes of colored smoke rose from some of them and was sucked into the red ends of the ss tubing. It ran along the desk and up the wall until it vanished through the window.


    Chance stared, enraptured, as the woman picked up a vial of boiling purple liquid. She attached it to one of the tubes and twisted a small metal valve. Droplets separated from the surface, flying through the ssware and depositing themselves in another vial that was already full of a shimmering, blue substance.


    It didnt look like the woman was going to finish anytime soon. He looked around the shop, but there werent any chairs or spots to sit where he was confident a small movement wouldnt mistakenly bring the entire shop crashing down on top of him.


    Chance considered clearing his throat to get her attention, but he dismissed the idea. She was clearly busy, and distracting her would be rude. He carefully crossed his legs and sat down in front of the shop.


    The angle was considerably worse, but the desk was so short that he could still see some of the work the woman was doing. That was better than just sitting bored, so he settled in to wait. It was pretty interesting, and it wouldnt hurt to sit around for a few minutes.


    Time ticked by. The womans wrinkled fingers moved deftly as she shifted vials around, continuing to extract just a few drops of liquid at a time from them to add to her mix. Chance wasnt sure how long he sat around, but it was around fifteen minutes when thedy finally nced up at him.


    What are you still doing here?


    Sitting. I didnt want to bother you while you were working. I hope my presence wasnt obtrusive.


    I didnt think youd stick around this long. Dont you see the sign? She pointed over his shoulder, where a sheet of parchment was pinned to the wall. Below it was a small wooden box. The prices are on thebels. Just take what you want and put the pay in the box.


    Ah. I cant read, Chance said. His face reddened and he cleared his throat. I cant read thenguage here, that is.


    Ah. A new arrival that couldnt be bothered studying, the old woman said, her back straightening slightly so she could peer at him from beneath the brim of her hat. And you have nothing better to do than sit on my floor?


    It would have been rude to disturb you while you were working. Chance rose to his feet and brushed the dust off his pants. And it was only a few minutes. I was enjoying watching you work. Ive never seen anything like it.


    The womans dry lips split into a grin, revealing yellowed teeth as a short chortle slipped out of her mouth. Im d my work is appreciated. Well, youve waited here long enough. What can I do for you?


    Im mostly just here to browse, Chance admitted. But I didnt think about the fact that I wouldnt be able to tell what anything cost or what it did.


    So you need old Madam Baba to read for you? To be your eyes? Do you even n to buy anything?


    Chance cleared his throat. Uh probably not yet. I guess it depends on what it is and the costs, though.


    Figures, Baba grumbled. She grabbed a cane from the ground and pushed herself upright with a grimace. Chance couldnt help but notice that she wasnt any taller standing up than she was when seated. If possible, she might have actually lost some height.


    The old woman tapped her staff on the ground, pointing at several shelves. Vials lifted into the air and floated over to her. There was a loud creak as a piece of wood peeled itself off the ceiling and bent itself into a table, dropping down between them just before the vials settled on top of it.


    I might as well show you the basics, then, Baba said, tapping the leftmost vial with a wrinkled finger. It was full of small, green pills, akin to


    These are healing pills, Baba said, just before Chance could announce he suspected he knew what they were. Theyll heal most flesh wounds you get. One gold for the bottle. Theyre filthy easy to make.


    Her finger moved down the line, settling on a vial of pills that were a mixture of green and blue. These are antidote pills. Theyll cure any low grade poisons. They arent going to do shit for anything stronger. One gold.


    Low grade? Chance asked. How do you know if something is low grade or not?


    Depends. If you do your research on a monster, youll know what it can do, Baba replied. And if you dont, youll find out when it kills you.


    She cackled, then moved along to the next vial. This one only contained a small handful of them, rather than being filled to the brim. These are popr. Theyre full of a bunch of stuff you dont want to know about. All that matters is they help you cultivate.


    Now that youve said that, I want to know whats in them.


    No, you dont, Baba replied. These are fifty gold per bottle.


    Chances eyes widened. Fifty gold? Thats quite the jump.


    Anything that makes you permanently stronger isnt going to be cheap, Baba said with a cackle. Just dont take too many. What rank are you, boy?


    Squire, but not officially.


    Baba snorted. Like I give a shit what the Shikari want to approve and what they dont. Outside the walls of Gleam, nobody cares about if youre an official Shikari or not. What does matter is that youve got a Gate, so these wont kill you. Still, its not possible topletely purify Essence through anything other than your Gate. Take too many of these and theyll stick to your impurities, building up and eventually making it impossible for you to improve.


    She went over several more pills, each more expensive than thest. Their effects ranged from stamina and Essence recovery to temporarily granting someone the ability to fly. Chance wasnt sure how a pill was supposed to do that, but considering Essence was a thing, he decided not to question it.


    All of them were well out of his budget at the moment. Even if he did have the gold, he wasnt going to be buying anything until Pete let him know how much money it would cost to locate his parents, if they were even on Centurion.


    Chance thanked Baba for her time and promised to return when he had enough money to buy some of the more interesting pills. He was particrly interested in the cultivation enhancers, but he wanted to consult Pete and Yamish before buying them.


    The street was still busy when he stepped back outside. He took a turn down a less busy side road and nced up at the sky as he strolled. There were still several hours left in the day, but he wasnt in any mood to meditate.


    A thought struck him, and Chance nced at one of the small alleys lining the side of the road. He wasnt even close to where hed first entered the Old City, but it clearly didnt follow any of the normal rules.


    He strode up to one of the dark pathways, drumming his fingers on the hilt of his urumi. Peering into it revealed several crates leading up to a dead end. Chance pursed his lips and stepped into the shadows.


    Id like to hunt, he whispered, feeling like some of the crazed people hed seen on the Bostons streets back when he was on Earth. Old City? Can you hear me?


    The wall rippled. Chance cursed, nearly tripping over his own feet as stone melted, giving way to cracked bricks. A thin alleyway formed before him, turning off into the darkness after just a few feet.


    Shit, I didnt think that would work, Chance muttered. He nced over his shoulder, than stepped into the alley. He wasnt sure if it was safer or more dangerous to enter the Old City without Yamish, but there was only one way to get stronger, and he couldnt take jobs on his own. Not yet.


    Chance drew his urumi and held it before him as he walked into the alleyways of the Old City. His footsteps echoed eerily through the thin paths, but he was surprised to find that he didnt feel nearly as ufortable as he probably should have.


    The Old City still felt off, but it didnt feel malicious. It simply was. At least, Chance hoped that was the case. It would have been really embarrassing if the stupid thing just killed him after all of this.


    Shadows flickered in the corner of his vision and Chance moved instinctively, sending his urumi flying out. It punched into a young Soothound just as it leapt at him, pinning the monster into a wall.


    He ripped the de free and the Soothound flopped harmlessly to the ground. Grimacing, Chance flicked the blood from his urumi and continued deeper.


    Id like to fight something that would challenge me, but preferably not so strong that Ill die in the process, Chance said aloud. After all, why not? The Old City was clearly capable of understanding him. Hed use it for training, and it would use him to get rid of monsters. Win-win.


    The alleys changed again, forming a new pathway for him. Chance grinned and headed into it. Several more Soothounds attacked him on his way, but he cut them down. None of them were fully grown, and he was starting to get used to how they moved. The monsters werent as much of a threat as they once had been.

 Chapter 34: Haunted

    Chapter 34: Haunted


    His trek deposited him in a small square, but not the one hed met with Yamish in. This square only had one other entrance  across from him. It was empty, boxed in at all sides by cracked walls.


    One small corner looked like it might have been a garden at one point, but now it was just a depressing patch of stale dirt.


    Chance adjusted his grip on the urumi and opened his third eye, scanning his surroundings for any sign of a monster. A flicker of golden thread appeared in the pathway in front of him.


    Several more followed it as a figure bound in dozens of thick karmic threads emerged from the darkness. Chance took a step back as what he could only describe as a tall, gangly ape dragged its feet into the square.


    The monsters arms were grotesquely long and drug along the ground behind it, bumping against the gravel and debris. Its fingers ended in pointed ws the size of small bananas, and the entire thing was covered in a thickyer of bristly red fur.


    Itsrge, ck eyes locked onto Chance, and it bared its teeth, revealing a mouth full of jagged fangs. A low growl slipped from between its thin, cracked lips. Chance didnt wait for it to make the first move.


    He flicked his urumi out and the segmented de expanded, slicing through the air toward the ape. The monster hollered and bounded forward, loping across the ground on its knuckles and barely avoiding the strike. It dashed at Chance, screaming the entire time.


    Essence gathered at Chances fingertips and a thin bolt of golden light shot out, striking the ape in the chest. One of its handsnded on arge piece of loose debris that slid out from under it, and the monster crashed to the ground in a ball of gangly limbs.


    The urumi whistled through the air and raked across the apes back as it tried to stand. Blood sprayed across the ground as he retracted the de, sending his will into it and cutting through one of the karmic threads in the process.


    Energy rushed through Chances body in a deluge of ice through his veins. The ape lunged at him,shing out with one of its deadly hands. Chance bounded back, his legs carrying him farther than he had expected. He flew several feet through the air and mmed into a building.


    Instinctively, his fingers found purchase in the cracks along the wall and he swung himself like  well, a monkey. A stone crashed into the wall where hed been, but Chance had already twisted around andunched himself toward the ape.


    He hit the ground in a roll, rising to his feet and spinning the urumi around him. The de coiled around the ape and he yanked it with all the force he could muster. That turned out to be a lot.


    The segmented des surrounding the ape tightened with a snick, carving clean through the monster as the urumi reassembled itself and a dozen chunks of carved monkey plopped down to the ground.


    Chance stared at his blood-covered urumi, then looked down at the monkeys body. He shuddered, repressing a gag. Now that the threat was gone, it was a little too close for human for his tastes. The energy flowing through his body slowly faded, returning him to his normal state.


    Despite his distaste, he felt <em>stronger</em>. His abilities were faster and more responsive, and his luck control had affected the ape when it hadnt worked on somerge Soothounds. Once he could get his hands on some techniques and really get more into cultivation Chance couldnt suppress the flicker of excitement that filled him.


    He flicked the blood from his weapon, then shook it off in annoyance when most of it wouldnte off. Chance sighed and stared at the corpse. How do monsters even show up, anyway? Yeo said it was some big source of contention, but that means there have to be theories. And why does the Old City not like them?


    The walls rippled, and a new pathway formed. Chance blinked. He hadnt been expecting an answer to that particr question. After a moment of hesitation, he walked down the provided pathway.


    It continued farther than most of the other alleys had, which didnt make much sense to Chance. The Old City clearly had some level of control over space and where things were. If it could show up anywhere in Gleam, then did it really matter how long an alleyway was? Perhaps it just had a pension for dramatic ir.


    The alleyway came to a stop before a tall, ck iron fence. Chance blinked. He hadnt seen anything like that before in the Old City. He approached the fence and peered through the bars. Realization struck him.


    It wasnt a fence. It was the railing of a makeshift balcony. It overlooked an alleyway where a manid on the ground, a sword several paces from his hands. Chances eyes widened. He opened his mouth to call out to the man, but paused. Something was off.


    The man was hairier than he should have been  almost like fur. It wasnt easy to see details from where he stood, but the ck hair was bristlier than any humans. It always could have been one of the modifications that some people in Centurion had, but Chance dismissed the notion when the body twitched.


    His limbs were shrinking, growing sinewy and taut. Over the next few seconds, the mans body shrank into his clothes. They twitched around for a moment before a Soothound slipped out from beneath them, ncing in either direction before padding down the alley and disappearing around a corner.


    Chances stomach clenched and he braced himself against the wall. He felt sick to his core. Bile bit at the back of his throat and he stepped away from the railing.


    Theyre human? All the monsters? Ive been eating <em>humans</em>?


    The ground beneath his feet rippled abruptly, making him stagger. Chance got the impression that the Old City did not like his previous statement.


    Well, its not like there are many other ways for me to see this, Chance said. You just showed me a man that turned into a Soothound. How else am I supposed to read into this? Cant you just draw something? You can control the shape of things, so surely you could make a mural in a wall.


    A few seconds passed. Then the wall beside Chance rippled, lines forming in the cracked brick. In seconds, an incredibly graphic and detailed drawing of two Soothounds going at it formed on the wall. Then they started moving. Chance held his hand up.


    Okay, right. Got it. Dont need to see you animate that. They produce normally too, but Im not going to lie, that just seems even worse. Youre telling me that humans turn into monsters and then


    The mural changed once more, this time forming into two different Soothounds. One looked pretty simr to a normal dog, though it still had all its monster-like features. The other was gaunt and starved, with hungry eyes. It looked sick. A line formed on the wall between the two drawings, clearly separating them.


    The human ones are the sickly looking ones? Chance guessed.


    A big x appeared on the wall.


    Theyre the normal looking ones? Chance asked, relieved when the x changed to a circle. At least he hadnt been eating humans. But why? Wouldnt naturally urring monsters be stronger?


    The wall rippled, forming into a new mural that depicted the thin, ragged Soothounds sitting with their legs crossed in what Chance presumed to be meditation. They steadily grew in size until they were massive and looked far more deadly than any Soothound he had ever seen. The wall then rippled, forming changing to the human form of the Soothound. Instead of growing stronger, they grew twisted, their limbs jutting out at odd angles. By the end, it looked simr to the creature that Chance had killed before Yamish found him.


    The monsters made from humans are wrong, I guess? Theyre somehow twisted, which is why youre trying to get rid of them?


    A circle appeared on the wall. Chance wasnt sure if he was happy to bemunicating so well with the Old City or concerned at how intelligent it was.


    If you dont mind me asking have I fought any human monsters? Other than the one that I killed before meeting Yamish?


    The circle remained. Chance swallowed.


    Have I eaten any of them?


    The circle changed to an x. Chance let out a relieved sigh.


    It was the imp, wasnt it? Its the only monster that had a weapon.


    The circle returned. Chance pressed his lips together, the sickness in his stomach still twisting it into knots.


    Why? Whats the point of making me fight them? I mean, youve been having me kill the normal monsters too, havent you? I dont know what you are, but arent you on the monsters side?


    The mural changed, forming into a disturbingly urate image of Chance. It depicted him growing more and more muscr until he practically looked like a bodybuilder.


    Youre using the normal monsters to get me strong enough to fight the human ones?


    A circle. Chance couldnt help but notice that the Old City hadnt answered his other questions.


    Could you at least tell me why humans are turning into monsters?


    The wall changed once more, this time forming into dozens of threads hanging off a nondescript person.


    Karma? Theyre doing something that ends up turning them into a monster?


    The wall didnt respond. Chance took that as an approval. He ran his hands through his hair, trying to push the feelings of disgust away. Anyone who turned into a monster was probably suffering. The best thing he could do for them was put them out of their misery.


    I think I understand. I might be done hunting for today, though. Ill be back. I agree with you on one thing. I need to get stronger. If theres a way to save the people turning into monsters, I want to find it.


    The mural turned to a circle, then faded away. Rock melted back, forming into an alleyway that led into the square that hed killed the ape monster in. The pieces of the monsters body stillid on the ground. Chances face crumpled.


    Seriously?


    There was no response. Suppressing a groan, Chance walked up to the monster and took a small piece, throwing it into his mouth and gritting his teeth as he swallowed. A shudder racked his body and his Gate grew hot as Essence churned around it.


    Another alleyway formed in the walls  the same one Chance had been standing in before hed entered the Old City.


    Thank you, Chance said, gagging and wiping his mouth with the back of his sleeve. Ill be back soon.


    He stepped out of the Old City and the rock rippled behind him, sealing shut. Chance dry heaved, trying to get the taste out of his mouth. Unlike his tastebuds, his Gate felt pleased. When the heat slowly settled down, he could feel that the Essence within it had grown  and not by an insignificant amount.


    Chance spat onto the ground, trying to get the taste out of his mouth. A man walking by the alley nced at him.


    Had too much to drink, Chance said, straightening up and giving the man an awkward grin.


    The passerby shook his head and strode off without a response. Chance let the smile fall from his face and sighed, walking out into the main street. The sun was starting to set in the sky. Hed been in the Old City for longer than hed thought.


    <em>Perhaps it has some control over the passage of time as well? Travelling all that distance must have some sort of drawback. </em>


    Chance shook his head. He reached Main za Road and followed it back to Shikari Lane, the knowledge hed gained haunting him the entire way.

 Chapter 35: Pills

    Chapter 35: Pills


    When Chance got back to the Whiteheart house, Pete and Yeo had already returned. Yeo was locked up in his room, cultivating, but Pete stood behind the kitchen counter, preparing dinner for all of them. He smiled at Chance as he walked into the building, setting aside his knife and wiping his hands off on the stained apron he wore.


    Chance. Youpleted your advancement to Squire?


    Yeah. Its seriously something else, Chance said, shaking his head in awe.


    Just wait until you get some practice in, Pete said with a knowing chuckle. Thats when youll really start getting dividends. When you focus on the vision you had during the advancement, your cultivation will be much faster, and youll gain more Essence.


    Ill try it out tonight, Chance said. I wanted to ask, though. Were you able to find any leads on a way to locate people?


    Pete nodded. I was. Theres an Investigator in Gleam that takes cases specifically for people from Earth, trying to locate rtives or family members. Its apparently moremon than you would think. Unfortunately, it isnt cheap.


    I didnt think it would be, Chance said. How much?


    Well, I suppose cheap is rtive, Pete said. Its one hundred gold an hour, and he estimates about a week until he can locate someone  if theyre on Centurion. If theyre somewhere else in the universe, then no promises at all.


    Chance did some quick mental math, then frowned. Thats around seventeen thousand gold. God, thats a lot.


    Its not impossible to earn as a Shikari. Fairly realistic, actually. Some of the best Shikari earn far more than that, and if you can ce high in tournaments or otherpetitions, youll get pretty sizable bonuses.


    Chance nodded, but his mind was already drifting elsewhere. Tournaments andpetitions were great, but he suspected nothing around their level would be paying anything too crazy.


    But if he hunted monsters in the Old City and turned them in on his own that would pay quite well. Hed have to find a way to conceal his identity, but that was better than waiting around forever and not getting to spend any of his money while saving up.


    Chance felt slightly guilty for working behind Be and Yeos backs, but there was no way he was going to risk their lives by bringing them into the Old City. Not with Yamishs threat hanging over him  he had no doubt the man was strong enough to kill any of them if they went against his orders.


    Its not all bad news, though, Pete said, walking over to the dining table and picking up a dense leatherbound book. The words on its cover were faded  not that it mattered, Chance couldnt have read them either way. I got a technique manual for you. It was difficult to find. There really isnt much in the way of information on Karma cultivation. Luckily, that meant there wasnt a lot of demand for things like this in the library.


    Thank you, Chance said, tucking it under his arm. I dont suppose you have a book thatll teach me the writtennguage as well? Im afraid I cant read anything here.


    Pete chuckled, revealing a second, considerably smaller book. It was only a littlerger than his palm. English-to-Common. This one is yours to keep. Youll have to return the technique manual if anyone requests it, but since the demand is so low, I doubt youll have much difficulty there.


    Chance took the second book with a relieved grin. Thank you again, Pete. This is fantastic.


    Its the least I can do. Im supposed to be teaching all of you, after all, the old man chuckled. All three of you are clearly taking this very seriously. I want to support that, while you still have someone to lean on.


    Whats that supposed to mean? Chance asked, cocking his head to the side. Sounds ominous.


    I didnt mean it to. Pete adjusted his grip on his staff and sighed. As you know, the Shikari teams are initially established to make sure young cultivators survive long enough to be really useful to Gleam. But, once you reach Knight rank, youll be eligible to branch out on your own. And, inevitably, you will. Cultivation does not lend itself well to remaining on the same path with people for long. Cultivation is a path that leads you to strive for the heavens, and there is little safety along it. Id like to think that Im doing enough to make sure your chances of survival are high, but theres always something I could have done better.


    I see where youreing from, but that doesnt seem like the right mindset to have, Chance said. Youre looking at it like youre responsible for us, arent you? In the end, it feels like youre trying your best to make sure were prepared for the future. Thats more than most would do.


    Im d you feel that way, Pete said, walking back over to the kitchen countertop and picking his knife up. Perhaps Im just getting sentimental. This isnt the first team Ive overseen. Ive been at it for a while.


    Well, reaching Knight rank is considerably harder than getting to Squire, right? Weve got a good bit of time left.


    Quite so, Pete said with a nod.


    Chance started up the stairs to his room, then paused and nced back at the older man. Forgive me if this is prying too much, but how many teams did you oversee before us?


    Eight, Pete replied. And I was on one.


    Of those teams, how many survived?


    Petes eyes darkened. Two of them, Chance. Theres a reason this world brings in new cultivators and draws them to the schr-cities. There are only so many people that are capable of bing cultivators on Centurion, and there are always more threats.


    Chance swallowed. I see. Thank you.


    Pete just nodded, returning to his work while Chance walked up to his room. Once the door was shut behind him, he sat at his desk and set the books down before him. He pushed the technique manual to the side and picked up the small dictionary, leafing through it. There was a lot of memorizing to do, and Pete was right. Cultivation wasnt safe, and he needed every single advantage he could get.


    He spent the rest of the night reading and memorizing. Chance had never taken himself for a particrly apt student, but something about cultivation had fundamentally changed him. If hed been given this task on Earth, he doubted he would have been able to aplish much within a month.


    On Centurion, Chance found that his focus had grown several times, as had hisprehension. By the time the sun shone through his window the following morning, hed already started to recognize some of the moremon words in the dictionary and was well on his way to memorizing thenguage.


    He set the book down, blinking furiously. His Gate was warm, almost as if he had been cultivating. It faded back to normal quickly and Chance shook his head, rising to his feet and walking out of his room.


    Yeo stood about an inch away from his door. Chance cursed, jumping back and nearly tripping over his own feet. God, Yeo. What are you doing?


    Sorry. I heard you walking over and I was about to knock, Yeo said, not sounding sorry in the slightest. You want to go do another job? I want better armor, and the set Ive got my eye on costs fifty gold.


    Chance nced down at his clothes. Now that Yeo mentioned it, an upgrade wouldnt be remiss in the slightest. Then again, he would have preferred to spend the money on something more useful like a cultivation aid.


    Ah, shit.


    What? Yeo asked.


    I was going to ask Pete if he knew anything about Cultivation aid pills, Chance said. I visited an apothecary and they had some for sale, but I wasnt sure how good they were.


    Oh, yeah. I know about those. Theyre not bad, Yeo said. You just have to take them in moderation. Like one a week at most. If you take more, your body wont be able to get rid of the impurities fast enough and youll end up hurting yourself in the long run.


    Thedy selling them said something simr. But what if you dont have any impurities? Chance asked.


    Ah, like if you managed to purge everything? Some really powerful cultivators or rich families try to do that for their kids, Yeo said thoughtfully. If youve got no impurities, then you could technically take as many pills as you wanted. But, the more Essence youve gathered within you, the more potent pills youll need to get stronger. It would be worth it if you could getpletely pure, though. Its just really difficult to get to that level of purity.


    Let me guess, the more potent ones are stupid expensive?


    You got it, Yeo said with a grin. So how about that job?


    Lets go get Be.


    Yeo grinned and darted over to Bes room. Chance followed him out as the dark-haired boy eagerly rapped on the door. It swung open a minuteter and Be emerged.


    Ready for another job? she asked.


    Do you want to go do  oh, Yeo trailed off. Well, great. I was kind of expecting to have to argue for it. Im not sure why.


    Be rolled her eyes. While you and Pete were off practicing, some more job offers rolled in. Ive been sorting through them to try and find the best ones. Were Squires, but since we havent gotten our ranks confirmed by the Shikari, they still see us as Foundlings. Because of that, our offers were pretty crap.


    Nothing interesting at all? Yeo asked, scrunching his nose. Nothing at all?


    I didnt say that. I just said they werent very good, Be corrected. I found one that I think could pay pretty well, actually. Its just going to be a bit of a slog. Theres apparently been a weird increase in the number of Soothounds wandering around the city. Theres a job to kill as many of them as possible, and theyre paying ten gold per monster.


    Chance kept his features in, but he couldnt help but feel a flicker of unease.


    <em>What is it with Soothounds? Why is it always them? Shit, I hope theyre not the human versions. </em>


    Soothounds? Really? Yeo asked. Those were never a problem for us outside of Gleam. I didnt realize there were so many here.


    There usually arent, Be replied, frowning. Not from what I knew, at least. Thats why weve got a job for this, though. Soothounds usually arent too dangerous, especially if they arent fully grown, so its a good task for Foundlings.


    Lets do it, Yeo said. Did the job say where they were?


    Most of the attacks and sightings have been in the Rose district, Be said. Its not far from here. Maybe ten minutes.


    Are they on the main road? Chance asked carefully. Thest thing he wanted to do was go anywhere near something that resembled alleyways. The Old City would probably end up sucking all of them into it.


    The main street and in the parks, Be said. She took a scroll of parchment out and hand it to Yeo, who scanned over it. Chance peered over his shoulder, pleased to find that he recognized enough of it to get a vague understanding of what it said.


    Granted, he already had an idea of its contents said because of their conversation, so he had a bit of an unfair advantage deciphering it, but it was still progress.


    Lets do this, then. Chance said. This looks like a great way to make a good amount of money in a pretty short amount of time.

 Chapter 36: Little games

    Chapter 36: Little games


    Be was right. Rose district was only a few minutes away from Shikari Lane, and Chance could see where it had gotten its name. Hed originally thought it was some sort of sly reference to red lighting or the like, but he couldnt have been farther from the truth.


    The Rose district had been named very literally. The buildings were covered with bushy green foliage, all carefully trimmed and properly cared for so thatrge, beautiful flowered bloomed all the way down the streets. There was almost no traffic in the area, but Chance wasnt sure if that was normally how things were or if it was because of all the Soothound sightings.


    A faint sweet smell filled the air, and there was just enough of a breeze through the street to carry the scent to Chances nostrils. He let out a content sigh.


    I think I just found my favorite street on Gleam. It smells incredible.


    You think I can eat the flowers? Yeo asked. They look magical. I bet theyd have some benefits.


    Youd probably blow your Gate up, Be said, rubbing her chin. Either that or get the Shikari called on <em>us </em>for stealing. They do look magical, though. Dont tempt me.


    Arent you supposed to be the voice of reason? Chance asked.


    Be cocked an eyebrow. Reason? No. Im self-aware enough to know that I make some pretty stupid decisions. Im just not aspletely brainless as Yeo.


    Hey! Yeo snapped. I am not brainless. I simply follow my primal instincts, like our ancestors did before us.


    Right, Be said. Well, why dont you use those primal instincts of yours to find some of the Soothounds while they chew on the flowers?


    Yeo pursed his lips. Then he pointed at the absolutest ce Chance wanted him to  an alley branching off the road. It was nestled between tworge bushes trimming the edges of houses.


    As good a ce as any, Be said. Chance couldnt argue with that. It wasnt like the Soothounds were just going to be sitting around in the middle of the road, so the three of them walked toward the alley.


    <em>Im overreacting. Its not like the Old City is going to be in every single alleyway wee across. Theres nothing to worry- </em>


    Chance choked on his own saliva as they drew up between the bushes, where a cracked stone street led into the darkness.


    Not this one, Chance snapped, grabbing Be and Yeos shoulders and turning them away from it.


    What? Why! It looked like a perfect ce for Soothounds to hide, Yeo protested.


    I used my Karma powers. There was nothing in there, Chance lied, his mind racing furiously. He couldnt tell them about the Old City. That would put them in Yamishs sights. But there was no way he could just keep them from walking into every single alleyway.


    Right, then, Be said slowly. She pointed at an alley on the opposite side of the street. What about that one?


    From what Chance could tell, it just looked like a normal alley. He repressed the relieved sigh and nodded. Yeah. Lets check that one out.


    Yeo gave him a strange nce, but they walked over to it and stepped through the bushes, Chance at the lead. No sooner than they had taken a few paces in, one of the walls rippled. A pathway into the Old City appeared and Chance repressed a curse.


    Damn, how big are the alleys here? Yeo asked, peering over Chances shoulder. You detect any Soothounds down there?


    Chance didnt even the chance to say no. A low growl echoed through the alley as a Soothound just a little shorter than him stalked out of the shadows, saliva dripping from its mouth as its cherry-red eyes focused on them.


    Yes, Chance said, heaving a sigh. The monster bounded toward them, but hed fought so many of them that his hand moved of its own ord. His urumi whipped out, slicing through the air and extending like a striking snake.


    It punched clean through the Soothounds chest with a <em>snik</em>. Even as Chance ripped the de free, the light in the monsters eyes winked out and its body mmed to the ground, rolling over to stop at his feet.


    Shit, Yeo said, whistling. When did you get so fast with the urumi, Chance? That was actually really solid.


    It was, Be said, studying him. That was quite impressive.


    Thanks, Chance said with an awkward chuckle. Lets get these and


    Two more Soothounds padded out of the alley, their hackles raised. Chance groaned.


    Dont worry, I got this! Yeo said, darting past Chance and into the Old City. His kusarigama whirled around him and flew out as the monsters lunged at him. Blood sprayed across the alley and Yeo danced past them, a second kusarigama joining the first.


    One of the Soothounds pitched forward, a leg severed at the limb. The sickle cut through its neck next, putting it down. The second met the same fate a secondter.


    Man, this really is easy money, Yeo said. Come on! This ce is huge.


    Hold on, Chance said. Why dont we just stay here? If theyreing to us, theres no reason to push further.


    There could be a whole pack of them, Be said, nodding. Its unwise to get too deep, I think. We could get surrounded. And we need the ears  five gold each.


    Yeo harrumphed. He knelt, drawing the monsters into two metal orbs. We forgot to use the Ward again.


    Be tossed one of her own spheres onto the Soothound that Chance had killed, absorbing it with a sh of blue light. She knelt, grabbing it and handing it to Chance.


    Thanks, Chance said.


    No problem. And theres no point using a Ward on something as weak as these, Be said. Its meant for monsters that can damage the city when the fight, not juvenile Soothounds.


    Good point. If the city isnt at risk of getting damaged, theres no point dropping a Ward. I think hear more Soothounds, Yeo said, nodding down the alley. Doesnt sound like that many.


    Lets stay here, Chance said firmly, ncing over his shoulder. Rose district still stretched out behind him, but he got the feeling that the second they turned any sort of corner, it would be gone.


    Fine with me, but I get the next set that show up, Be said, walking to join Yeo deeper in the alley.


    Thats fine with me, Chance said. Ill, uh, stay back here and make sure we dont get nked.


    Sure. Yeo chuckled. Im sure were about to get jumped by the one Soothound that trotted straight through the streets in broad daylight.


    Just dont go any deeper, Chance said, biting his lower lip. And stay in my sight. Dont leave this alley, or we could get separated.


    Whatever you want, Yeo said. Dont stay back there too long, or Be and I are going to get to do all the fun stuff.


    Chance nodded absentmindedly. He leaned against the wall casually, then turned his head so that Yeo and Be wouldnt be able to see his lips move.


    Old City, whats this about? he hissed. Im meant to be keeping other people <em>out</em>! You know I cant tell them anything. Stop trying to lure us deeper! If you keep sending weak Soothounds our way, theyre going to want to go farther in.


    The wall rippled, and a tiny circle traced itself into the cracked stone. Chance let out a relieved, muted sigh. Thank you.


    A loud crash filled the alley. Chance spun as an enormous, fully grown Soothound staggered to its feet on the far end of the alley, stone raining down from the wall where it hadnded.


    Gods, did anyone else see that? Yeo asked, taking several steps back and readying his weapons. That thing came flying out of nowhere!


    Get your Ward ready, Be said, ice reaching out to cover her body. We arent going to be able to take care of this one as easily as thest few.


    Goddamn it, Chance muttered, running to join them as the huge Soothound loped toward his friends.


    Yeos sickles shed out, but therge monster leapt over the weapons andnded atop the chains, mming them to the ground. Itshed out with a huge paw, forcing Yeo to release the kusarigama and vault backward.


    Be lunged at the monster and thrust her hand into its leg. Ice wrapped around it in bands, crackling against the Soothounds fur. It snarled and bit at her. Ice surged to form a shield in front of the girl, but it shattered under the monsters huge jaws.


    She dove back, narrowly avoiding its jagged teeth as they tore through the air where shed just been. Chance flicked his urumi and the weapon whipped out. The soothound ducked and the des scored across its back, screeching against its fur but failing to cut through it.


    Why is this one so dang big? Yeo yelled. His kusarigama shattered beneath the soothound, the fragments flying back to his hands and reforming.


    Its got really strong defenses. Were going to need a lot of Essence to damage it, Chance warned, jogging to join Yeo. Ive got a way to wound it. Activate the Ward once I get it, okay?


    Yeo nodded. I was just about to tell you the same thing, but go wild.


    Chance darted forward, throwing himself into a roll as the Soothound swept at him with a huge paw. It whistled over his back and he came back up, his third eye snapping open as he poured Essence into it.


    Strands of karmic debt shimmered into view all over the huge monster, and Chance grabbed the closest one. It tore away with a twang. For an instant, a faint outline of the threat remained behind. Chance didnt have the time to wonder what it was. He threw himself out of the way as the Soothounds jaws snapped shut, narrowly missing him.


    Golden mist bloomed behind the monster, and a shaggy Soothound made of light leapt at its dark counterpart. Its ws scored through the bigger monsters flesh and it bit into the monsters neck, tearing fur and spraying hot blood across the alley.


    A powerful thrum set Chances hair on end as an electric current shed through the alley. A blue dome bloomed above them, tracing down and encapsting them in the alleyway.


    Good job, Chance, Yeo called. It didnt resist at all! Youre getting it good. Keep it up.


    The golden Soothound faded into particles, blowing away in nonexistent wind. The wounded monster caught Chance in the chest with a paw, mming him into the wall and tearing several deep furrows through his chest with its jagged ws.


    He cried out in pain and surprise and slid to the ground, the urumi falling from his hand beside him. Be leapt forward, driving her fists into the monsters chest in a series of brutal strikes. Each one sent a wave of Essence rippling outward and spread a growing nket of ice across the monster.


    Chance fumbled with his bag, pulling out one of the healing potions that Jagg had given him with rapidly numbing hands. He popped the top of it off and raised a shaking hand, nearly spilling the lifesaving liquid as he tried to bring it to his mouth.


    Yeo joined the fight, his kusarigama shing in the dim light. He and Be circled therge monster, slowly but steadily whittling its defenses down. They both kept their space, only striking when its attention was on the other.


    Chance managed to drink the potion and staggered to his feet as the wounds on his chest bubbled and lurched, knitting themselves back together. He grabbed the urumi from the ground and send it whistling out. Some of the wounds that his karmic punishment had inflicted on the Soothound were prettyrge, and that meant they didnt have the enhanced defense of its fur.


    Sure enough, his de bit deep, burrowing into the Soothounds unprotected flesh. It screamed in fury, which earned it a violent blow to the face from Bes Essence empowered fists.


    Teeth ttered across the ground and blood dripped from its mouth. It snarled, staggering backward. Yeos twin kusarigama sailed through the air, spinning around the monsters neck like asso. He yanked them taut and sickles whipped around, both carving deep furrows through the monsters hide.


    Chance sent his urumi out once more and it sunk deep into the Soothoudns neck, just below its skull. With one final snarl, the Soothound copsed to the ground with a crash. The alley fell silent, save the panting of the three Shikari.


    Fishing an orb from his bag, Chance tossed it onto therge monsters body. It vanished in a sh of blue light and he picked the filled orb up, tucking it into a pouch.


    Okay, Yeo said, wiping his forehead as the blue dome faded above them and the Ward fell. I think I might see what you mean. If there had been more than a few of those, we could have been in a lot of trouble.


    You think? Be asked dryly. Chance, are you okay? It looked like you got cut up pretty badly.


    Yeah, Chance said. It was a pretty rough hit, but Im fine. Thank God for those healing potions.


    I hope that Soothound sells for more than just ten gold, Yeo muttered, kicking a pebble across the ground. Uh maybe we should retreat to the entrance of the alley.


    Good idea, Chance said, not even bothering to hide his relief. They hadnt actually gone down any turns in the alley, so Rose district was still behind them. The three quickly headed back toward the entrance.


    Should we just wait here for more Soothounds, then? Yeo asked.


    Are both of you still up to fighting? Be asked. Im good myself.


    I am too, Yeo said. Chance?


    Im fine as well. We just run if we see more than one fully grown Soothound, Chance said. As long as they were at the entrance of the alley, theyd be safe. It was better than wandering around any further and somehow getting dragged deeper into the Old City.


    Out of the corner of his eye, Chance spotted the wall rippling. An image of anotherrge Soothound appeared in the stone. He suppressed a curse and shook his head urgently. Luckily, he was standing behind Be and Yeo, so neither of them saw the motion.


    The image changed to a group of smaller soothounds. Chance gave a curt nod. A momentter, a dozen soothound corpses catapulted out of the alley, forcing all of them to dive to the side. The bodies sailed over their heads and thudded to the street behind them.


    What in the hells? Yeo asked, staring at them. Okay. You all saw that. Im not hallucinating. Right?


    Seriously? Chance hissed under his breath. Stop!


    The alley rippled. Rosebushes erupted around the entrance,unching all three of them thest few feet out of they alley. Yeo leapt to his feet and darted over to the bush, squinting through the leaves.


    Well, Ill be damned. Its gone. Theres just a wall. Its like the alley was never there.


    I am thoroughly confused, Be said, looking from the Soothound bodies to the bush. Ive never seen anything like this.


    Yeah, Chance lied, wondering if the Old City was intentionally trying to blow his cover. Me neither. I, uh, think this one might be a bit out of our paygrade.


    <em>And Iming back to hunt Soothounds as soon as Im alone. The Old City and I need to have a nice, long talk that makes sure it doesnt lob any more corpses at me in the near future.</em>


    But hey, free loot! Yeo said cheerfully, spinning and collecting the Soothounds bodies. He paused at the aghast expressions on Be and Chances faces. What? No point passing it up. Its a gift!


    I dont know if a monster can be cursed, but if it can, those are definitely cursed, Be said, crossing her arms.


    Not my problem, Yeo replied. The Shikari Guild can figure that one out themselves. Im just going to make some bank off them in the process. I mean, look at this! One hundred and twenty gold, just lying around.


    Hes got a point, Chance admitted. Someone else will just take them if we dont.


    Are we just going to gloss over the fact that the city literally changed right in front of us?


    Meh. Ive seen weirder shit. Well report it to the Shikari and move on, Yeo replied. He gathered thest of the bodies and sauntered back over to them. Shall we go turn this in? If you want, Chance and I can just split these between ourselves.


    No way, Be said, narrowing her eyes. I want in too.


    Thought so, Yeo said. Lets go, then. I might not be about to question the gift, but I think I understand when Ive been told to get lost pretty well.


    You probably get it a lot, Be grumbled.


    Yup.


    Chance shook his head as he fell in behind his friends. Evidently, epting strangeness was natural once you lived in a world full of magic for long enough. But that wasnt enough for him topletely brush off the Old Citys actions.


    Something was seriously wrong, and he needed to find out what before anyone else got dragged into it. Be had already met Yamish once, and he didnt want the karmic bonds between any of them and the strange man to grow stronger.


    If they did a shiver ran down Chances back. He was learning very quickly that there were worse things than death, and somehow, he suspected his unsettling mentor might have been connected to more of them than he hoped.

 Chapter 37: What awaits in the shadows

    Chapter 37: What awaits in the shadows


    They stopped by a Shikari Base on the way back to the Whiteheart house. Even though it was in apletely different part of the city as the previous one, the towering, ten-story stone tower loomed over the surrounding houses. As Chance drew up to the door, he nced through a window and paused.


    Uh is that J?


    She was in a different base, Chance, Yeo said, pushing the door open with a chuckle. Sounds like someone has a crush.


    He froze as Joe ambled past the door bearing a te piled high with food. Therge man deposited the te at a table and turned to them, waggling his fingers in a small wave.


    Good to see you kids again. Hows life treating you?


    Okay, Im hallucinating, Yeo said. He closed the door, then opened it again. Joe raised a bemused eyebrow.


    Not to be rude, Chance said slowly. But how are you here? Thest Shikari Base we went into was way down in the Graywall district.


    Joe chuckled. Theres only one Shikari Base. There are just a lot of entrances. Powerful piece of Dimensional Essence that one of the city founders put in when Gleam was being established.


    Does that mean we could technically traverse the city by walking into a Shikari base in one area and leaving it in another? Be asked as they walked inside.


    Only once youre Knight ranked, Joe replied. Think of it as a reward for surviving that long. Its quite convenient. But what brings you here today? Business or pleasure?


    Were here to drop off some Soothounds for a job, Chance said, stepping past a waitress and over a man passed out on the ground. There was an open ended request to take care of them.


    Ah, that one. Weve had a fair number of new Shikari swing by toplete that. You manage to find one or two of the buggers?


    Chance cleared his throat. No. More like what, fifteen or so, if we count the big one?


    Joes eyes widened. You found fifteen Soothounds?


    Yeah, Yeo said. They were everywhere. We were practically tripping over them in the Rose district. Why do you look so surprised about that? Youd have to be blind to miss them.


    Most other Shikari have had a lot of difficulty spotting the Soothounds. Well have to point more people toward the Rose district I suppose, Jose said, leading them over to a small counter built into the wall. Burget, the man that taken the Imp from thest time theyd been in the Shikari base, sat behind it, leaning his chin on his palm.


    Gday, Joe. Can I have a beer? Burget asked.


    No, Joe replied. Youre still on the job. Look lively,d.


    Burget let out a weary sigh. Fine. The kids this time? What you have to turn in?


    A bunch of Soothounds, Chance replied, digging the orbs out of his bag. Yeo and Be did the same and deposited the small pile of captured Soothounds on the table. There were sixteen orbs total, with one of them being therger monster.


    Letting out an annoyed grunt, Burget pulled out a silver box the size of a toddler and set it on the table. It was in, with a smalltch that Burget popped open. He dumped all the orbs into the box and closed it again, giving them a nod.


    Your payment will arrive shortly, once processing isplete, Burget said, sliding the box off the table.


    Joe cleared his throat. Burget sighed again.


    Would you like to peruse any of our offers at this moment? You can exchange gold for goods and services. As you are currently all Foundlings, the stores avable to you are limited. You can expand them by ranking up.


    The gold for goods and services part is not meant to be in the pitch, Joe said. He pped Burget on the shoulder, making the smaller man flinch. But it was a good attempt. Well done.


    Burget grunted and slumped back down over his desk, not even waiting to see if any of them wanted to use his store before closing his eyes in a clear dismissal.


    Did you have any difficulty with the Soothounds? Joe asked.


    We had a bit of trouble with arger one, but the small ones are easy to deal with, Chance said.


    Sounds like you lot should probably be taking the next exam to get ranked up to Squire rank Shikari. Its pretty clear that youre already there as cultivators, anyway.


    How can you tell? Chance asked.


    Your observational abilities will grow as you get stronger, Joe replied, snagging a drink from a counter as they passed it. He drained the entire thing with one swig, then tossed it in a high arc through the air and into a sink at the far side of the room, behind the bartenders counter. It wont be long now.


    They all came to a stop at the door.


    We only just became Foundlings a few weeks ago, Be said, her hand on the handle. Isnt it too fast to try to test again?


    Bah. Everyone moves at their own pace. Joe shrugged. And there always tests for rankups. Individual ranking is different  youve got to wait for a tournament to get that moving anywhere.


    We could get some more interesting jobs if we ranked up, Yeo mused. It would be nice to fight something other than a Soothound.


    We fought imps pretty recently, Be pointed out.


    Yeo grimaced. That job doesnt count. Something was messed up with it.


    Like something wasnt messed up with this one, Chance grumbled.


    Fair enough. We <em>did </em>get a bunch of corpses lobbed at us. Yeoughed. But hey, free money. Im notining. Thanks for the help, Joe.


    Anytime, kids, Joe replied. He leaned against the counter and rooted around behind it for another drink. Take care of yourselves. Ranking up will get you better jobs, but make sure youre ready for it. Ive seen too many Shikari get overconfident.


    He ended the sentence as if he was still going to speak, causing them all to send a confused nce his way.


    Get overconfident and then what? Yeo asked.


    Thats it, Joe replied. Get overconfident and youll die. This isnt a safe career. You need to know exactly what you can handle, and be aware of what youre capable of doing. Be confident in that. But dont overestimate your abilities, or you might not ever get a chance to correct that. Especially not once you get past the baby jobs.


    Thanks for the advice, Chance said.


    And dont worry, Yeo added. Were good at this.


    <em>Im pretty sure that you were the one he was warning the most out of all of us. </em>


    Be looked like she was thinking the exact same thing. Joe just chuckled and bid them farewell as they headed out of the building and started back toward the Whiteheart house.


    Should we go kill more Soothounds? Yeo asked, rubbing his hands together eagerly. I mean, that was practically free money. We could buy so many things if we just sat around in the Rose district for a day.


    And probably get killed in the process, Be said. Come on, Yeo. There was something going on there, and it wasnt safe.


    And? Yeo asked.


    I forgot youre fairly new to Gleam. If theres ever something that feels off, you should trust your gut  especially when youre alone. A lot of people think Gleam is alive. Im not sure if Id go that far, but the city is more than just brick and stone, thats for sure. When youre around for long enough, youll see it. And youll also stop seeing the people that stuck their noses where they didnt belong.


    What, you think the city is killing people?


    I dont know, Be replied with a shrug. But I know that Im not dumb enough to stick my neck somewhere where a knife can conveniently find it. Theres so much Essence in Gleam that I wouldnt be surprised in the slightest if it had some form of awareness.


    <em>Yeah, if only you knew. </em>


    Yeo let out a sigh and ran his hands through his hair. I guess you might have a point. Generally, when someone throws a corpse in my direction, I dont take it as a weing sign.


    Chance missed a step. Does that happen often?


    They allughed. The trio reached the Whiteheart house a short whileter. Pete was nowhere to be found when they headed inside, but there were several new jobs on the table already. Be scanned through them while Yeo rooted through the icebox for food.


    The Soothound quest again, plus some missing item requests, Be said, tossing them back onto the table. Nothing too interesting. Maybe we really should look at trying to rank up. I was getting better jobs than this when I was working alone. Much better ones.


    Probably because you had special privileges, Yeo pointed out. He pulled a sausage out of the fridge and stuck it in his mouth like a cigarette. Werent you way stronger when you used the water, anyway?


    Be pressed her lips together. I was. But it wasnt the right way for me, and its bing clear the more I use my Essence in the way I do now. I was just strong because of what Vex gave me. In the long run, this is much better. And you might be right about the special treatment. Gibson really was getting me jobs for higher ranked people. I thought we had an understanding, but he hasnt spoken to me once since you two joined the team.


    Maybe he really hates us? Yeo said through a mouthful of food. Doesnt matter in the end. Im going to go check the library out and see if I can learn a cool technique. You guys want toe?


    Im going to cultivate, Chance said, shaking his head. Thanks for the invite, though. Ive just got too much to catch up on. I also cant read the books here yet.


    Fair nuf. Yeo shrugged. What about you, Be?


    That might not be a bad idea, actually. Ill join you. Good luck, Chance. Well be back in time for dinner.


    Sounds good, Chance said, waving to them as he headed up the stairs to his room. He heard the door shut behind them as he sat down on his bed, his smile slipping from his face as soon as they left.


    He waited for a minute, then darted back downstairs. Chance cracked the front door open, peering out of it to check if anyone was there. The street was empty, so he slid out and closed it behind him.


    Be dropped from the roof above him,nding lightly in front of Chance. He yelped, leaping a foot into the air. By the time hended, his urumi was in his hands. Be raised an eyebrow.


    You look a little antsy, Chance.


    Iuh


    Dont, Be said, raising a hand. I know this is presumptuous of me, but I know that look you had in your eyes. Youre about to do something dangerous, and you n to keep Yeo and I out of it.


    What? Thats not


    Chance, dont waste our time. Youre a terrible liar. Your cheeks turn red.


    What? They do? Chance touched his face.


    No, but that did basically just confirm it, Be said, suppressing augh. The smile quickly fell away. Look, I know what it feels like to do something alone because you dont think you can trust anyone else with it. Ive been there, and Ill daresay probably more than you have.


    Chance cleared his throat, then let his shoulders slump as he let out a sigh. Yeah. Okay.


    Are you sure you need to do this alone? Be asked. Because if theres any way I can help, I want to. You tossed me a line when I was in the same situation. Let me repay the favor.


    Chance chewed his lower lip. Then he shook his head. Yamish might have tolerated Be once because of Vexs interference, but he highly doubted the strange cultivator would let any more information pass.


    I cant bring you into this, Chance said. You remember the guy that stopped Vex, right? Hes involved. If youe with me, Im almost certain youll die.


    Be pressed her lips together. Okay. I wont push. If youre sure, then nobody is going to change your mind. Just be careful. Dont forget what Joe said  he was right. Youve got Essence now, but you arent immortal. Not yet.


    I will, Chance promised. Thanks for worrying, though. Ill be back soon.


    Be nodded reluctantly. She turned and headed off down Shikari Lane at a light jog. Chance set off in the other direction. He had some words to share with the Old City.

 Chapter 38: Give and take

    Chapter 38: Give and take


    Turning down the first alleyway he came across, Chance cast a quick nce over his shoulder to make sure nobody was in the area before he rapped on the stone. Hey, its me. Open up.


    For a moment, it looked like the stone wouldnt respond. Then it rippled, peeling back to reveal a cracked pathway. Chance strode into it and, this time, the Old City didnt even try to hide the exit sealing in behind him.


    Okay, weve got a problem, Chance said. Im sorry if this is rude or anything, but what the hell was that? I know you could have killed me when I first arrived or whatever, but Ive already agreed to help you. Why would you try to lure my friends in? You know as well as I do that Yamish will kill them.


    A question mark carved itself into the wall. Chance sighed.


    Yamish literally said that everything in the Old City wanted to kill me, and he was very firm about not sharing anything about you  and him  with anybody. It doesnt take a genius to connect the dots. I dont know how strong he is, but I know its strong enough to kill to protect whatever he wants.


    The old city didnt respond for a moment. Then the stone rippled and an old, cracked sign pushed itself out of the wall. Tiny flickers of essence hissed and popped off of it, but it was mostly unlit.


    It wasnt a word familiar to Chance, so he reached for his dictionary. Ah, damn it. Didnt bring the book.


    The ground rippled and a book slipped out from it,ing to a stop at his feet. Chance squinted, then knelt and picked it up. It was a dictionary. A quick nce through a random page revealed it was one written in English, too.


    Seriously? Okay, were going to need to have a conversation about just what youre capable of, Chance muttered, leafing through the dictionary and trying to match the word on the sign to something in the book. He spotted it after a few moments and rolled his eyes. Therapist. Seriously? Youre telling me to get a therapist? This is <em>your </em>fault!


    The question mark transformed into a circle. Chances eye twitched. The Old City didnt have an ounce of shame, but it evidently did seem to have a sense of humor. He just wasnt sure if that was a good thing or not.


    Right, you arent getting rid of me that easily, Chance said, tucking the dictionary into his waistband. Seriously. If you want me to work with you, I expect a little more of an equal rtionship. That might be weird to you, since Im sure youre some all powerful living city or whatever and youve never had to debase yourself to work with a weakling such as I, but Im not your ve. If youve been listening to literally anything Ive said, you should know that.


    The question mark returned. Chance sighed.


    Youre going to make me repeat it?


    A circle.


    You are such an asshole, Chance said, a tiny grin creeping across his face before he could banish it. He was not about to start bantering with a <em>city</em>. Especially not a murderous one. Im doing this my way. No more jokes. This is my second life, and Im not wasting it for a bunch of musty old alleyways with a terrible sense of humor. Deal with me evenly or just try to kill me and move on.


    There was a long pause before the Old City responded. The circle faded away, and a pathway formed. It led up to arge, open town square. Chance didnt think it was possible, but the square actually looked even more dpidated than the rest of what hed seen.


    Purple, thorny ivy covered the walls andrge patches of the ground. It was withered, just barely clinging onto itsst semnces of life. Huge portions of the buildings making up the walls had fallen apart, and debris was strewn throughout the square.


    Lining the ground leading up to the square was a series of skulls. The walls of the alley around Chance shifted, forming into an image of a bowlegged, twisted Soothound with several heads.


    Theres a human monster beyond this? Chance guessed, tightening his grip on the urumi. Seriously? Youre just going to brush me off and sic me on another monster?


    The image faded, reced with an x. That was then washed away as a new symbol took its ce  a scale. Chances eyes narrowed.


    A trade. Youre saying that if I want respect, I have to earn it, huh?


    The circle returned. Chance spun the urumi in his hand. Fine. Lets do this, then.


    He strode into the circle, calling on his Essence. His third eye snapped open and warmth tingled at his fingertips. Adrenaline started to pump through his veins as he stepped out into the square and his eyes scanned the surroundings for any sight of the monster.


    Chance never would have admitted it, but a growing portion of him was excited. The chance to prove his convictions in a concrete way wasnt an opportunity hed had before arriving in Gleam, and he was starting to relish it more with every fight. His Gate warmed, the bands of heat wrapping around his heart and stretching out through his body.


    The ground in the center of the square rumbled and started to rise, pushing tearing through vines and pushing debris out of the way. Chance nearly lost his bnce as the quake shook the entire area violently enough to send stones tumbling from the rooftops.


    As the earth sloughed away, a statue of a staggeringlyrge Soothound poked its way out from the ground. It rose until it was nearly twice Chances height. The beast had six legs, with the two extra ones protruding from its back at odd angles.


    Four heads lined its body, and not a single one of them was in the right ce. Two were just behind the front legs, while the other two were ced on its back. The creatures legs were thin and slender, but its paws were the size of dinner tes and with ws to match.


    Heavy stone chains hung from the monster at half a dozen different locations. But the thing that caught Chances eye the most was the thick threads of karmic debt connected to the statue.


    Statues dont have debt, Chance said, his eyes narrow. One of the stone chains snapped, falling to the ground with a thundering crash. Tremors ran through the statue and dirt cascaded down from it.


    Another chain snapped. More dirt fell, and the features of the monster started to grow more defined. As the next chain followed the previous ones to the ground, Chance whipped the urumi.


    The weapon expanded, its segmented des whistling through the air and reaching for the spreading patches of dark flesh appearing beneath the stone. His strike scraped off the edge of some of the stone and rang against the fur harmlessly.


    Chance cursed, retracting the de. I really need to get a technique before I try to do this again. Aura ispletely unfair.


    He sent it whistling out once more, but this time aimed for one of the threads of Karma connected to the twisted Soothound. He inspected it briefly as his de cut through it  the debt belonged to anotherrge Soothound, but not one that had been formed from a human. The de carved through the light and energy coursed back down it, flooding into his body like a river of ice.


    To his surprise, a faint outline of the karmic strand remained, even though hed drawn the power from it. That wasnt the first time it had happened to him, but this wasnt the time to look more into it.


    Hair stood on end all over Chances body and he involuntarily bared his teeth in a snarl as the power poured through his system. Thest of the chains thundered down and the four heads of the Soothound reared back in a haunting, synchronized howl.


    Eight glowing red eyes focused on Chance and the monster took a shaky step forward, finding its footing on the ground after its imprisonment. Then it charged.


    If Chance hadnt drawn power from the karmic thread, he would have died there. Instead, he bounded out of the way, flying through the air and catching onto the lip of the first story of a building.


    The wall behind where hed been standing vanished in a plume of dust and stone as an explosion rocked the town square. Snarling, the Soothound pulled itself from the huge hole it had just formed in the wall and charged toward him with blinding speed.


    Chance spun, his urumi whipping out and ringing against his opponents fur. He leaned back, avoiding a snarling head as it snapped at him, and continued the flip, driving a knee into the monsters nose.


    A massive paw nearly caught Chance in the head, but he dropped to the ground instants before it connected. Wind rustled his hair and he vaulted upright, thrusting his de into the monsters stomach.


    Again, it rang against hard fur and failed to prate. Chance leapt, grabbing a fistful of the Soothounds fur and using it to swing himself to safety. As he released it, he let his fingers brush across another one of the karmic strands connected to the creature.


    His jump carried him through the air and across the square. He mmed into a two-story building, digging his fingers in and catching himself on a windowsill with inhumane grace and strength. He nced over his shoulder as golden light materialized into arge, armored creature.


    It roughly resembled an armadillo that had been mashed with a porcupine. Jagged spikes stuck out of the hunched creatures back, interspersed between tes of thick, shimmering chitin.


    He couldnt see the monsters face from where he stood, but it leapt at the Soothound, curling into a ball and literally rolling into the other monster. The spikes on the creatures back ripped through the hard fur.


    Blood sshed across Chances glowing monster and the ground, sizzling as it melted through both. The mist dissipated and he dropped back to the ground, spinning the urumi in his hand. Thending sent a slight jolt through his legs. The energy hed drawn from the karmic thread was starting to fade.


    The Soothound loped toward him and lunged, snapping at his neck with several salivating, jagged toothed maws. He used thest of his borrowed ability to drop to the ground in a slide.


    As he slipped beneath the monster, he raised a hand toward another strand of karmic debt. An instant before his hands brushed the glowing energy, he saw several images flicker through it at the speed of thought.


    A woman, only a few years older than him smiling at an alter. The same woman, sitting at a table as someone handed her a te of steaming soup. Then she was standing in the doorway of a house, her hand raised in farewell and the smile on her face failing to hide the fear in her eyes.


    Chance yanked his hand back at thest second, electing to grab a smaller strand of Karma. One that belonged to another Soothound. His fingers wrapped around it and a clear chime rang out as he rose back to his feet behind the monster, his urumi darting out even as the monster turned toward him.


    Sickness built in Chances chest as the sword-whip bit into the wound his previous misty summon had inflicted. The Soothound screamed in pain and he ripped the de free, severing another karmic thread on the way back and filling himself with energy once more.


    A golden paw swiped through the air, jagged ws ripping deep into the Soothound and widening the growing wound on its back. One of the monsters heads lolled to the side, nearlypletely severed from the rest of its body. Blood sizzled against its fur and its guts sloshed around with every movement.


    But, even with the power coursing through his veins once more, the excitement for the fight was gone. All that was left was sadness and disgust.


    <em>This isnt a monster. This is a man. Who was that woman? His wife? His daughter? He had hopes and goals, just like me. And now hes this thing. </em>


    The Soothound didnt sit around aimlessly while Chance went through his inner conflict. Its many heads screamed and it leapt at him, blood spraying from its wounds and melting through the ground as it lunged at him.


    Chance was saved by the second time by his stolen abilities, vaulting backward with inhumane agility. Instinctively, he sent the urumi whistling out once more. The de struck home, digging deep into the open wound on the monsters back.


    He leapt into the air, clearing a powerful blow that smashed the front of the building behind him, and retracted the urumi. Chances feet mmed down on either side of the wound and he drove the de deeper, pushing it through the back of the monsters main neck.


    The Soothound pitched forward and Chance leapt, snagging a protruding signpost that hung at an angle and swinging himself to safety. A w scraped across his back as hended, screeching as it met bone. The monster crashed to the ground behind him, a plume of dust rising up around it as its blood seeped into the cracked stone.


    Chance staggered, drawing in a sharp breath as pain flooded through his body. He grabbed the bottle of healing pills from his waist and popped one into his mouth before the agony could cripple him.


    The burning faded away and he let out a sigh as the wound pulled itself shut. A sizzling pop from his urumi drew Chances attention. He grimaced. The de was covered with severe pockmarks and the thin metal ropes that allowed it to expand and contract hung open, partially eaten away by the monsters acid. The weapon waspletely ruined.


    Foul smelling matter poured out of the massive wound in the monsters back. Constrictions racked its body and it bucked, bones popping and twisting as it started to change. Fur receded as more and more of the foul matter poured onto the ground, surrounding it in a pool of ck liquid.


    For an instant, a mans body appeared suspended within the muck. He had a strong jawline and thin blonde hair. He was probably in his mid-forties, with several scars across his cheeks and chin.


    Then he was gone, melted to g. The ck liquid sank into the ground of the Old City, slipping between the cracks in the stone. Within seconds, there was no trace of the man or monster.


    Chance drew a shaking breath. He knelt,ying his useless weapon on the ground as well. It wasnt going to do him any more help now  not in its current shape. Maybe someone would stumble across it in the future and it would provide them with some aid.


    Well? Chance demanded, clenching his hands. You made me kill someone. What did he do to deserve this? Why are you making me do your dirty work? You better give me some real goddamn answers, Old City.

 Chapter 39: Talking with rocks

    Chapter 39: Talking with rocks


    The ground shuddered. Chance steadied himself against a crumbling wall as a stone mound rose from the earth. It waspletely covered with heavy chains  there must have been hundreds.


    They shifted back like the petals of a blooming flower, revealing a rough, humanoid statue made of stone. Itpletelycked any features or defining characteristics. It slowly stepped out from the bundle of chains, though its arms and legs were both still connected to them.


    A jagged mouth carved itself into the figures face, sending tiny pebbles ttering down its body to the ground below. Chance nced at his ruined urumi.


    <em>Damn, really wish that hadsted one more fight. </em>


    Chance, the stone said, its voice raspy. It was slightly higher pitched than he had expected a rock would sound like, but considering hed never heard a rock talk before, there wasnt much topare it to.


    You  youre the Old City, Chance realized. You can talk?


    Not usually, the rock replied, the chains rattling as it approached him. I have taken measures to improve ourmunication temporarily. It was of grave importance.


    So you can actually give me some real answers?


    Some, the Old City said with a jerky nod that came just a little too long after it finished speaking. But you must understand more about cultivation to properlyprehend what I need to share with you.


    Chances eyes narrowed. Is this going to put me in karmic debt? Im still not really sure on the rules of that yet.


    The stone made a grating noise, and it took him a moment to realize that it wasughing. At least, he hoped it wasughing. I do not cultivate Karma, but I know that lies do not establish a tie. If anything, I am in your debt.


    Lies? What lie Chance paused. Then his brows knit. Yamish. So we werent establishing debt between ourselves when he answered my questions?


    There are too many interactions that happen on the daily to truly establish karma through mere exnations. If he had given you information that would allow you tounch your cultivation base up by a massive degree, then perhaps there would be debt. But mere instruction like you were given would establish nothing.


    What does he want, then? Chance asked. I know he wants something.


    Astute, the Old City said.


    <em>Great. Its sarcastic. </em>


    Please, tell me then, Chance said. Why did I arrive here? Whats up with the Soothounds? What does Yamish care about me for?


    You arrived on Centurion because you were chosen, just as all the other new arrivals were, the Old City said. Stone rippled beneath it, forming into two chairs. It sat down in one and Chance slowly lowered himself into the other. The stone was cold against his back through the torn shirt.


    Thats not what I meant. Why did I arrive <em>here</em>? In the Old City.


    Because I willed it.


    Chance raised an eyebrow. You are not going to finish that sentence like that and expect me not to ask more.


    I wasnt done speaking, the Old City said, adjusting itself in its seat. I am unused to conversing like this. It is strange. To answer this question, I must give you some of my own background.


    Well, Im not going anywhere until I get some of the answers I just fought for. Go on.


    When a high amount of Essence is present in an area, the people within it will be more.


    Right. Cultivation.


    This is also true for objects, though they require considerably more Essence to gain sentience.


    You? Chance guessed. There are so many cultivators in Gleam, so theres got to be a huge amount of Essence just floating around.


    Correct. There would be, if I were not consuming it. You call me the Old City, but I am truly just the awakened portion of Gleam. I have been gathering stray Essence for hundreds of years. Involuntarily at first, then consciously as my awareness grew.


    So anything can cultivate?


    Under the right conditions, though my cultivation is vastly different than yours. I do not pursue a specific path of Essence. I seek to understand the greater whole.


    Is that even possible? Chance asked, blinking.


    Not for a mortal. If you grow strong enough to break past your bodys limits, then perhaps. That is not anything that you will reach soon, though.


    Okay, understood. But what does this have to do with me?


    When mortals are taken from realms such as Earth, they do not have the capability to cultivate. Their bodies have so many impurities that its simply impossible to cultivate there  or here. Thus, when they arrive, the Giver removes a portion of their impurities and helps them see their path.


    Someone I know mentioned the Giver as well, Chance said. What exactly is it?


    A powerful entity, stronger than any cultivator here. I am uncertain of why it exists, but it does. But, the important part is not the Giver. It is that, when the Giver grants a mortal the power to cultivate by removing their impurities, it takes away part of them as well. They are lesser, weaker than they should be. And, because of this, it is much more difficult for them to reach the higher levels of cultivation.


    Does he wipe our memory or something? Chance asked. I dont recall ever meeting someone like that.


    Thats because you didnt, and that is why I brought you to me. You have <em>potential</em>. Somehow, when you arrived, you had already been cultivating. It has been countless years since such a thing has happened, and the power that you may posses in the future is why I drew you to me.


    I think you might have gotten something mixed up. I only learned about cultivation here, Chance said. I certainly never did anything like it on Earth.


    I am not here to argue semantics. This is what happened, regardless of whether you wish to believe it is true or not. Somehow, you had established a cultivation base before arriving here. It was weak, but it existed and, as such, the Giver had no reason to modify you.


    I  okay. Lets assume thats correct for now, Chance allowed. Is that small difference really that significant?


    More than you could ever imagine, the Old City said. Especially with the type of Essence you cultivate. Karma is terrifyingly powerful.


    Yeah. Ive seen Yamish. Hes also a Karma cultivator, isnt he?


    He is. And that leads us to problem that I seek to treat. The reason I need your power. There are many ways to cultivate Karma. Your current path is firmly treading along cultivating <em>good </em>Karma.


    Is there such a thing as good or bad Karma? Theyre two sides of the same coin.


    More wisdom than I would expect from someone of your age. But yes, there is. The difference is subtle, but makes leagues of difference when applied. Your karmic path consumes debt that someone already has. You are manifesting a way to force them to pay for what they have already bought.


    And Yamish?


    He twists. Enves.


    A chill prickled Chances spine. The Soothounds? The human ones? And the Imp! They were him? He did that?


    It is his path. He feeds on the Karma of others, drawing their strength and forcing them to pay the debts that he rues.


    Holy shit. Hes a monster.


    His path pursues perfect bnce. He justifies his misdeeds by bncing them out, but that does not make it so that his crimes do not exist. Yamish is likely one of the most powerful cultivators Centurion has ever seen. He is not a monster. He is Yamish  and that is much worse.


    And he just happened to be waiting in a bunch of alleyways for me?


    No. That was not Yamishs true body. His true form is in the cosmos, seeking greater strength. The Yamish you have interacted with is nothing more than an Essence Clone  a tiny fragment of his will. Be thankful. If the true Yamish knew of your existence and desired anything from you, you would be no more.


    Chance swallowed. The clone hasnt told him? And why does he care about me at all? I cant be that unique.


    It will, when they next meet. But they do not meet often, and you are correct. In an infinite cosmos, incredibly rare opportunities are no longer quite so rare. That is why Yamish has thousands of fragments scattered throughout the worlds, all seeking power. You are but one of many.


    <em>Assuming youre telling me the truth, that is. People here seem to have a habit of lying about their true intentions, myself included. I guess Yamish is technically the reason I cant be honest with Be and Yeo, but that doesnt excuse the fact that Im lying to them. Yamish obviously wasnt a great person, but Im not sure Im going to blindly trust the city here either. I need more information. </em>


    Chances hands tightened. Okay. So I need to find a way to get rid of the clone before it meets with the real guy.


    Correct. That will not be an easy task, but if you wish to live, it is the one you must take.


    I dont suppose Ive got any chance against him right now?


    You will die a thousand times before you even scratch him at your current strength. You must grow more powerful.


    Right, gathered that much, Chance said with a nervousugh. Get stronger than a god. That cant be too difficult. But why are you telling me this? You were working with him.


    I was not <em>working </em>for anyone, the Old City said, a hint of anger rising in its monotone voice. The chains connected to it rattled. Why do you think Yamish was within my alleyways when you arrived? He sought <em>my </em>power. When I brought you here, it was as a way to seek freedom from him, not aid him.


    You expect me to be able to save you from Yamish? Why not just ask the city? There are a ton of powerful cultivators here, arent there?


    There are. And some have the strength to stand against Yamishs clone. But none would do it without forcing me into a situation where I would lose as much as I gain. There is great power in controlling the manifestation of a city asrge as Gleam.


    So youe to me? A kid that started cultivating a few months ago? Why? Because Im not going to rake you over the coals with some terrible business deal?


    Yes.


    I  wow, that was blunt. Arent you betting a lot on me seeding?


    No. If I believe you will fail, I will reach out to the other cultivators on Centurion. They will fight Yamish, and they will win. The cost will be great, but preferrable to the alternative.


    Gee, so youve literally only gone with me as your first choice since you think Im a sucker that will help you for free.


    Yes.


    Id punch you if I didnt think Id break my hand in the process.


    Your Path leads you to help others, the Old City said, cing its hands on its knees. And, as such, you are my greatest chance for surviving this as myself. If other cultivators step in, they will tear me apart fighting for my power. What remains will not truly be me, but many fragments of my former self.


    Thats seriously screwed up, Chance said, grimacing in distaste. I thought Gleam was a fairly nice ce. Are you sure they wont just help?


    You are fodder raised to fight the weak monsters that spawn within the Gleam from the worst parts of humanity. The Essence of every sin and mistake that every mortal unknowingly contributes to, all mashed together and given form. This peace is a beautiful dream that will shatter once you grow strong enough to see the truth. Weak Shikari are not a policing force. You are the food which the darkness in this city feeds itself and, in such, leaves the important mortals alone.


    Chance swallowed. You cant be serious. You mean they want us to die?


    No. They simply dont care. You keep the monsters off the streets and give the powerful cultivators a ce to rest in when they are not fighting for more power. It is a trade. I do not think I am a bad city, but nothing in this world  or any world es for free.


    Except for my help, apparently.


    Apparently.


    You know, I havent agreed to help you yet. And, technically, you could be lying. Yamish has warned and helped me several times.


    Yamish grows you like a fruit, waiting until the time is right to pluck you.


    Says you, Chance said. Although he did make me eat monsters. Thats pretty screwed up.


    The Old City cleared its throat in a remarkably human motion. Actually, that was beneficial.


    Wh seriously? How?


    Monsters are condensed Essence. Normally, they would react very poorly when ingested, as they would mutate within you uponing into contact with your impurities. However, you seem to have no impurities whatsoever. This allows you to safely draw the Essence straight out of them in small portions.


    Chance rose to his feet and started to pace around the chair. So youre telling me that Yamish has helped me there too. He also seemed to imply that I owe you some debt, and everything I do was just paying that back. I dont trust Yamish at all, but why should I trust you?


    You dont have to, the Old City said. But do not tell him of my awareness under any circumstances. He knows Gleam has power, but does not realize that I have awakened. If he does, he will likely seek out his main body immediately. Then we will both be dead.


    Chance studied the Old Citys rocky features, but it was impossible to read a literal statue. He sighed.


    Okay. I wont say anything, but I do feel like youve said a lot of things that add up. I still dont trust you, though. Well call it a working partnership until I know more.

 Chapter 40: Deal

    Chapter 40: Deal


    Chance raised a finger in the air. That said, Im not helping you for free. I want to, but if Im in as much danger as it looks like, I literally cant afford to.


    The Old City was silent for several seconds. Chance took that as an invitation to continue.


    If I help you, I want something in return. I mean, you did just tell me that the strong cultivators in Gleam could defeat Yamish. I dont <em>need </em>to kill him myself. Its extraordinarily stupid to even try.


    Perhaps.


    But if you arent lying, I do want to help you. You just cant expect me to do this on my own, can you?


    No. I suppose not, the Old City said. What do you seek?


    How much do you know about cultivation? Can you make things go faster for me?


    My methods of cultivation are different than yours. If your path were a little moremon, I might be able to provide information, but I know little about Karma. It is possible for me to instruct you in general powers, but you would not gain anything that a book could not offer you.


    What about coin or resources? Those would help me grow stronger.


    All things lost in Gleam are mine, but they be one with the city. I absorb them and they be one with me. I cannot give them to you any more than you could give me an arm.


    Can you just guide me or something then? Youre really old, so youve got to know some useful information.


    We will not be able to readily speak like this until I have broken enough of the seal restraining me. The Old City nodded back at the chains binding it. That is why I have been preparing you to fight the monsters that Yamish created. He has used five of them as lynchpins. My strength is limited until they fall.


    I dont suppose this was one of them?


    No. Once one falls, Yamish will know. You will have to defeat them all in rapid session, and you are not yet prepared for that.


    Well, damn. Yourepletely useless, Chance said, crossing his arms. You literally cant give me anything. On top of that, Im leaving today weaker than when I arrive. You ruined my urumi!


    The monster did that.


    Dont y semantics with me, Chance said, rolling his eyes. Seriously. I want to help people, but youre asking for a bit much, dont you think? You literally have nothing to offer.


    what about a firm handshake?


    Absolutely not. Id almost rather get nothing. For some ancient city-spirit, youre prettyme.


    The Old City cleared its throat. Im not ancient. Gleam is ancient. I  ah, might have exaggerated my strength a little. Awareness only came to me in recent years.


    Chances eyes narrowed. Whats that supposed to mean?


    Exactly what it sounds like.


    How old are you? Chance asked. Fifty?


    The Old City Didnt respond.


    Thirty?


    Still, there was no response.


    Five? Chance eximed.


    What? No! I am not a child, the Old City said, crossing its arms. I am the embodiment of the great Schr-City Gleam, unjustly restrained by a foul cultivator. I am twenty.


    Youre two years older than me.


    Two years makes a huge difference. You wouldnt know until youre twenty.


    I was going to excuse your slightly murder-y habits, but not anymore. What the hell is wrong with you? Chance demanded. You lobbed corpses at me! I thought you were some ancient monstrous creature, not a year or two older than me!


    Two. Two years. Thats a big difference, the Old City said. And I still eclipse you in powerpletely.


    Except youre bound andpletely useless.


    Well, yes. Thats the problem.


    Chance ran his hands through his hair and groaned. Is there literally anything you can give me?


    I suppose a hug is


    Dont even offer that. I do not want a hug from a sentient rock.


    They stared at each other for a few seconds. Then the Old City heaved a sigh. I  Ill rece your weapon with something good. An Urumi that actually has some power to it, not a dead hunk of metal.


    Chances eyes lit up. Like a magic sword?


    Yes.


    Why didnt you offer that before? he asked. I would have said yes on the spot!


    Because it doesnte for free, the Old City said sullenly. It takes a considerable amount of the power Ive cultivated. Permanently.


    Chance raised an eyebrow. More significant than what the other cultivators would ask of you?


    No, the Old City admitted. Not even close. Can you at least make me a promise?


    Depends on what the promise is.


    If we both survive this, youll be powerful. No reneging on your deal and trying to establish some contract with me.


    Chance shrugged. Sure. Thats a big if, as Im probably going to get killed doing this, but its not like Ive got much of a choice. If you arent lying, Yamish is going to kill both of us. I wont try to take advantage of you after hes dealt with.


    The Old City nodded. It reached into its chest, a hand sinking deep into the stone. A rumble shook the ground beneath them. Cracks spread through the statue and rocks tumbled down it as it slowly pulled a de from within its chest.


    Its hilt was made of tarnished bronze, wrapped in jagged purple leather. The links of the whip-sword were smooth, but tarnished streaks ran through the metal like a bolt of lightning had been frozen within it.


    Dont betray me, the Old City said, its body crumbling apart. The sword ttered to the ground and the rest of the statue followed after it.


    Chance knelt, picking the de up. The wrapping bit into his hand slightly and he grimaced, studying the new urumi. His old one certainly looked better, but the de felt light in his hands.


    He flicked his hand and the links extended without a sound, whipping through the air and sinking deep into a stone wall. Blinking in surprise, Chance retracted the de and examined it in a new light.


    The weapon wasnt the prettiest, but it was sharp and responsive. He was far from a sword expert, but he was willing to bet that this de was of far higher quality than hisst one. Where the magic in it was, he wasnt sure.


    I wont, Chance promised. Assuming I dont die, Ill help you.


    He turned and the wall behind him rippled, forming into an alleyway that led back into Gleam proper. As Chance walked into it, the de writhed in his hand, shrinking and turning into a purple blur and wrapping around his wrist before he could react.


    There was no more trace of the weapon. Instead, a thorny purple bracelet hung just below his hand. Chance blinked. Huh. Thats convenient. I was thinking that I needed to get a sheathe, but I guess thisll save me the money.


    Chance brushed himself off as best as he could, all too aware that it wouldnt do much when he had several giant tears in the back of his shirt, and walked out into Gleam. Hed spent more time in the Old City than hed thought.


    The sun was already low in the sky. Chance winced. Hopefully nobody asked too many questions. It wouldnt be too easy to exin his shirt. Luckily, when he got back, nobody was in the bottom floor.


    Breathing a small sigh of relief, Chance padded inside and up the stairs to his room. He pulled his ruined shirt off and tossed it onto the floor. Then he froze.


    Shit. I dont have a change of clothes.


    Chance looked around the room, hoping hed somehow missed a dresser. He hadnt. And, even if he had, it would have been empty. Groaning, Chance tugged at his hair and knelt, picking his ruined shirt back up.


    <em>I cant afford to save my money right now. Sorry, Mom, Dad. Ill have to wait to find you for a little longer, or I might be the one that ends up dead this time around. Guess buying a new shirt fits under vital supplies.</em>


    Chance pulled his shirt back on and headed into the hall. He didnt make it two steps before Bes door swung open and she poked her head out, making Chance look like a deer in the headlights.


    I  uh


    Youre alive, Be said, stepping into the hall. Thats always a good start. Why are you looking at me like that?


    Chance nced down at himself. The front of his shirt looked fairly normal. It was only the back that was ruined.


    No particr reason, he said, clearing his throat.


    Be rolled her eyes. Chance, it doesnt take a genius to know that you were hunting monsters. Ive gone out to do it more times than you have, I reckon. You cant sell their bodies to the Shikari base, though. Not on your own. Youre still part of the team, so theyll ask what you were doing.


    Chance rubbed the back of his head. Hedpletely forgotten that half his goal in heading out to the Old City was to kill some Soothounds for coin. Things had kind of just happened. I dont have any monsters.


    You didnt seed? I thought you were heading back to where we found all the Soothounds. Are they gone? You handled one on your own no problem when we werest there.


    Am I that obvious? Chance asked.


    Do you want me to lie?


    No.


    Then yeah, you are. You still look like you got caught with your hand in the cookie jar. Im surprised you werent able to beat any Soothounds, though. Maybe they really did move.


    No, I wasnt looking for Soothounds, Chance said. I mean, I need the money, but that wasnt what I was doing this time.


    Bes gaze darkened. Was it something to do with the man that stopped Vex?


    I think it might be in both of our best interests if I dont answer that.


    Thats a yes, then, Be said. Well, just be extra careful. You arent as strong as a Knight yet, and you dont have the artificial advantages I had when I was using Vexs power. At least, I dont think you do.


    What advantages even were those? Chance asked, snagging onto the opportunity to change the subject.


    The water itself, Be replied. Vex gave me water that hed infused with his Essence, and I infused myself with it. That also gave him a considerable hold over me, since if I ever tried to remove it, he could have used it to kill me. After your friend got rid of him, I continued using the water for a while since arge portion of my own cultivation efforts had gone into making it powerful.


    So when you got rid of it


    I lost a considerable portion of the Essence Id gathered over the years, Be said with a nod. And, ironically enough, that turned out to be what was holding me back from ranking up. I guess you cant truly grow stronger when youre leaning on someone elses strength as a crutch.


    Yeah. That means Vex doesnt have any real hold over you anymore, right?


    He shouldnt, Be said with a small nod. And he already got rid of the thing that made me work for him in the first ce. He did that a long time ago. Dont think I cant tell that youre changing the subject, though.


    Chance cleared his throat again. Yeah, yeah. I cant say this is the exact same scenario as you had with Vex, but I think you should understand more than anyone why I cant bring other people into this.


    Be inclined her head. Her eyes flicked to the bracelet on his wrist. I know. Thats why I havent told Pete. You cant hide it forever, though. People that care will notice things are changing


    Youre telling me. Chanceughed, moving his arm slightly to put the bracelet out of view. And hopefully, I wont have to. This is just something Ill be working toward on the side. No big risk at all.


    If youre sure, Be said with a shrug. Just tell me if you need anything. Im still in your debt, you know.


    I will, Chance promised. He edged toward the edge of the hallway, hoping to keep her from seeing his shredded shirt. Judging by the bemused expression on her face, it didnt work. Bes eyes dropped to the pouch at his side.


    How many healing pills do you have left? Looks like youve been using them.


    Chance sighed. Could you stop being so perceptive? Like,e on. Its not fair. At least let me <em>feel </em>like Im being sneaky.


    Its hard to do that when half of your shirt is covered with blood and pping behind you.


    Chance nced over his shoulder. He cursed. It would have been better if hed just walked out without the thing  at least Be would have just wondered why he was being strange rather than gotten proof of what he was doing. He pulled the shirt off and balled it up with a grumble.


    Here, Be said, disappearing into her room anding back with a in cloth shirt. She tossed it to him, and Chance pulled it on. To his surprise, it actually fit him pretty well.


    Why do you have a mens shirt?


    Yeo took to wandering around half naked in the mornings. He seems to think that itll help him passively absorb Essence, but the only thing its doing is scarring my eyes. I invested in a solution.


    Chance let out a chuckle. Thank you, then. Ill be sure to find a recement shirt to lend you. Speaking of Yeo, where is he?


    Still out practicing with Pete. He found a new technique in the library and didnt want to leave until he had it under wraps.


    Ah. I should really get on learning some techniques myself, Chance said. He patted the dictionary tucked into his waistband. Ive just got to get through this thing first. Thanks again for the shirt, Be. Now that Ive got it, I guess Ill just go back to cultivating. Are we taking a job tomorrow?


    Might as well. We all need money, and theyre good training, Be replied. You arent going to be too busy?


    Nah. Ill be fine, Chance promised. See you then.


    Be nodded as he headed back to his room. See you then.


    ***


    Yamish let out a slow breath. ck smoke curled around his lips, rising up past his chin and into the shadowed sky above. His eyes slowly slid open and he uncrossed his legs, walking through the air to ce his feet on solid ground once more.


    Strands of Karma extended from him in every direction. There were thousands upon thousands, all so thin that a spiders web would have looked like a river inparison. Exactly half shimmered with gold light, while the other half were pitch ck.


    So eager, Yamish mused. And so fresh. I have not seen enlightenment such as yours in millennia. What a vision indeed. You must be refined.


    Around him, the Old City trembled. Two strands of ck mist extended from Yamishs hand and slipped into the darkness. They returned, dragging the bodies of two Soothounds. He drew the Essence from them, twisting it into a knot as their bodies shriveled into husks at his feet.


    Yamish extended a slender hand, his fingers running along one of the golden strands that extended far into the sky, piercing through Gleams heavens and into the cosmos beyond. The Essence he had gathered turned into a trilling note that echoed along the strand, vanishing into the night.


    He let his hand fall and a smile slipped across his face and headed deeper into the Old City, the cracked stone parting like water before him.

 Chapter 41: Questions and answers

    Chapter 41: Questions and answers


    Essence constricted around Chances chest. Every breath he drew felt like it was a battle that he only just won, and every exhale let the bands tighten even further around him. Hed been trying to cultivate the entire night, but picturing the massive golden being he had seen in his vision made it feel as if the entire world were pressing down on him.


    Still, even asbored as his meditation was, Chance could feel the incredible changes that his visualization were doing to his cultivation. As weak as his breaths were, they pushed Essence into his Gate like the bellows of a forge.


    The familiar, slightly ufortable heat of Essence warmed his body, but it had started to spread from just his chest to his entire chest. As the night passed and he stilled his mind, trying to contemte Karma and keep the other thoughts from intruding, even that feeling faded into the background.


    Throughout the night, he only got a few scarce minutes where he could truly slip into his own mind and contemte. The rest of the time was spent in difort, struggling against the constrictive energy his vison surrounded him with.


    When the sun finally arose in the morning, Chance was conflicted. He sat on his bed for nearly an hour longer, his eyes shut and his breathing light. He couldnt tell if he felt well rested or exhausted.


    Slowly, he lit his eyes open. The vision vanished, blown away in an invisible wind, and the heat that had been building within him subsided. He slipped out of bed, stretching his arms above his head.


    Covering a yawn, he headed out of his room and downstairs. Several sandwiches already sat on the kitchen counter, and Pete was in hisrge chair, his feet kicked up on a small bench. Chance snagged one of the sandwiches and sat down across from the old man, pulling his dictionary out and scanning through it as he ate.


    The two of them sat in silence until Chance had finished his meal. He flicked through a few more pages of the dictionary, then lowered it.


    You look like youve been cultivating, Pete said with a wry smile. Id recognize that look of mild drowsiness anywhere.


    Yeah, Chance said with a chuckle. His body felt lighter than he was used to. Not by much, but just by enough that he noticed it. Its really different, thats for sure.


    Youll have more than enough time to get used to it, Pete said. The changes in most of your future advancements wont be quite as profound, and youll get used to the increased pressure on you when you cultivate. You wont like it, but youll get used to it.


    If you dont mind me asking, what rank are you? Chance asked. He paused for a moment then grinned. Your real rank, not the one you have with the Shikari.


    Pete raised an eyebrow. Earl. The Shikari have me as a Baron, though. What makes you ask that?


    Mostly just curiosity, Chance admitted. Where would you stand inparison to the strongest Shikari in the city?


    Oh, thats quite the tough question, Pete said. The original founders of Gleam are long gone. Their power is probably far beyond anything that anyone on Centurion has ess to. Theyre beyond gods. But the current ones? Mostly Lords and Saints. Once you hit god rank, there really isnt much reason to stick around Centurion anymore. And, as an answer  I wouldnt stand at all. A Lord could snuff my life out with a single move.


    Ah, Chance said, grimacing slightly.


    <em>Guess Im not getting his help, then. I dont want Pete getting killed by Yamish. </em>


    You sure theres no underlying reason for that question? Pete asked.


    Chance shook his head, shaking some crumbs that had fallen from his sandwich and onto his shirt off. He reddened and brushed them off the couch, moving to throw them out in a trash can.


    Just personal curiosity, really, Chance said, turning back to Pete. What rank is Gibson?


    A Duke.


    But hes younger than you, isnt he?


    Pete chuckled. Chance, dont take how old someone looks as how strong they are  especially if they look young. When you reach a certain level of power, you can control your physical appearance and your ageing slows down. Gibson is indeed younger than me, but that doesnt mean hes weaker.


    Ah, Chance said. Sorry. But if this isnt too personal, why is he stronger? Like, if youre older, doesnt that mean you have more time to cultivate?


    A good question. The unfortunate answer is that I did not stop. I just have not been able to grow stronger. We grow stronger byprehending our Essence, and I have been stuck at a bottleneck in my understanding for a long time. One day, I hope to surpass these limits. Until then, Ill remain as I am.


    Theres nothing you can do?


    With enough money, perhaps, Pete said with a shrug. But I cant afford anything like that. Not yet, at least. Perhaps in theing years, or if I ever manage to win a tournament


    They pay well?


    Extraordinarily so, Pete said with a nod. Even at your level. The city funnels money toward cultivators with potential.


    I see. Thank you, Chance said, snapping his dictionary closed. Whens the closest tournament?


    Theres a mixed Foundling and Squire ranked oneing in about a month. I was going to suggest you three try your hand at it, since theyre great practice.


    <em>A month, huh? I guess Ill have to settle for that. I hope Ive got the time to waste. </em>


    I see. Care to spar, then? Chance asked, rolling his neck. I want to get some movement in before we do our job today.


    Of course, Pete replied. The two rose from their chairs. The older man paused for a moment, embarrassment crossing over his features. Oh, did you want to use the backyard? Its not veryrge, but I dont know if we want to practice in the front.


    Why? Chance asked. Because other houses can afford a better ring? Why would I care what somebody else thinks about us? Theyre the ones wasting their time instead of practicing.


    Pete looked taken aback for a moment. Then a small smile crossed his lips and he inclined his head. Very well. I was simply trying to make sure your own reputation wouldnt be too poorly impacted by myck of funding.


    Why would that matter? If someones going to look down on us because we arent rich, I dont think thats the type of person Id like to be friends with.


    Kind. And inexperienced, Pete said, shaking his head as they walked outside. You should take any opportunity to grow stronger that you can, Chance. That includes ying by the rules that others expect you to. If you dont, you wont have people to back you up when you need their help.


    They took their spots on either end of thewn in front of the house and turned to face each other.


    If someone judges me by my wealth, then I dont think theyre going to be the one sticking around to help me out when I need them, Chance replied, golden mist gathering around his palms as he started to pull on the Essence stored within his Gate. Id rather get strong under my own power.


    Admirable. Petes staff expanded, forming a hammer head at the top. He spun it, then drove the butt of the weapon into the ground. If thats the path you wish to walk, then I will not stop you. I just hope it works better for you than it did for me.


    The two dashed at each other. Chance, his instincts honed by weeks of battle against Soothounds, twitched out of the way as Petes hammer whistled past his head. The old man was moving far slower than he had been when fighting Be  he was probably holding back until he could gauge Chances strength.


    Wheres your urumi? Pete asked as Chance bounced to his feet, driving an elbow toward his gut. Pete batted the blow away with the hilt of his hammer and swept it protectively in front of him, forcing Chance to skip to the side.


    I might have gotten in a little bit of a fight, Chance replied. He didnt add that he wasnt sure revealing his new weapon was a great idea.


    <em>Actually, I didnt think this through much at all. Can I even draw on Petes Karma? I guess Im just paying debts for him. Thats a good thing, right?</em>


    His third eye snapped open. Golden threads appeared in his vision, binding Petes body tightly. Chance yelped and dove forward. In the second that it had taken him to activate the ability, Pete had already moved to swing his hammer again.


    Chance dropped to the ground, taking an instant to nce at the nearest strand. The images within it were of arge, gori-like monster. The debt was weak at best, and while Chance had never seen the creature before, it didnt take a genius to guess what it might do.


    A furry fist materialized in a shower of gold sparks above Chances shoulder. Petes eyes widened and he raised his hammer defensively an instant before it crashed into him, sending the Shikari skidding across the grass.


    He recovered quickly, darting for Chance before he even had a chance to finish standing up. Petes strike was faster this time, and the only thing that kept it from connecting was Chances involuntary practice over the past weeks.


    Twisting to the side, Chance just barely managed to throw himself to safety. He spun, instinctively reaching for an urumi that wasnt there. His bracelet whipped out from around his wrist, the leather-wrapped hilt digging into his palm as the de materialized in his hand.


    Ringing like the note of a tuning fork, the urumi expanded and whistled through the air. Pete raised his hammer, but the segmented weapon wasnt aimed at him. It was aimed at another golden strand  this one belonging to a heavyset imp. Chance wasnt sure if it was a Greater or Lesser one, but it looked big.


    The urumi shimmered with faint golden light as it retracted, snapping back into position in Chances arm. Even as cold energy flooded through his body, the glow around the weapon remained.


    Thats new, Pete observed, hopping back and readying his hammer. You already bought a magical weapon? Smartd.


    Something like that, Chance said. He darted forward, power pumping through his body. Imps werent nearly as fast as Soothounds were, nor did they seem to be as strong as the gori monster whose debt Chance had just cut. But, from the energy pumping through his body and the speed that he reached Pete at, Chance decided that they were a pretty good middle ground.


    He whipped the hilt of the urumi at Petes side, but his only reward was the ringing of metal as Pete blocked the strike. The old man elerated to match Chances newfound speed, pressing him back across thewn. Their blows rang out in the early morning, and it didnt take long for his stolen power to start to fade.


    Chance severed another thread, drawing strength from a Soothounds Karma. He instantly increased in speed, almostnding a strike on Pete, but it met the same result as all his other attacks  knocked aside.


    Pain shot through Chances hand and the urumi spun from his hand. It fell to the grass several feet away from them and Pete mmed his hammer to a halt in the ground beside them, ending the fight.

 Chapter 42: Derren

    Chapter 42: Derren


    Thatst attack was faster than your other ones, Pete observed, straightening back up. But it was a fair bit weaker too.


    Yeah. I miscalcted a bit, Chance said, shaking his wrist off with a disappointed frown. He couldnt help but notice that the lines of Karma hed utilized were still connected to Pete, just slightly dimmer than they had been before. Was he not using all of their power? Or perhaps there was just too much to use at once?


    You put up a good fight, Pete said approvingly. He pped Chance on the shoulder as his weapon shifted back to a staff. Truly,d. Youre improving at an incredible speed. Ive never seen someone from Earth grow like you do.


    Thanks. Chance knelt and picked his urumi up. It morphed back into a bracelet, slipping around his wrist before he could even start to wonder how to make it transform.


    Interesting weapon you got there, Pete said. I would have thought youd go for a magic weapon that enhanced your abilities, not made itself more portable. I can see the benefit, though. Mine is quite simr. Couldnt have been cheap, though. Magical weapons run quite a bit of coin. Whered you get it?


    It kind of just happened, Chance said with a shrug. I got lucky and got a gift from someone.


    Lucky, huh?


    Chance chuckled. They returned to the house, ignoring the curious gazes of the few spectators that had gathered during their session. At least nobody had said anything this time. Yeo and Be were both in the kitchen when they returned.


    Did Chance win? Yeo asked through a sandwich.


    Of course not, Pete grumbled. What kind of mentor would I be if I lost to a Squire ranked student that hasnt even been cultivating for two months yet? He put up a great fight, though.


    Got time for another? Yeo asked, shoving the rest of the sandwich into his mouth and swallowing without chewing. He brushed his hands off and grinned. Im raring for a fight.


    Just work it off on a monster, Be said. Were all out of our rooms now, so we might as well get to a job, not to mention that youve sparred with Pete constantly these past few days.


    I do like money, Yeo said, tapping his chin with a finger. Right. What are we doing? Stomping Soothounds again?


    Both Chance and Be grimaced.


    Yeah, its not really all that fun, Yeo said, answering for them. But they did pay really well.


    If we could just get acknowledged as Squires by the Shikari, wed be able to take jobs that made so much more money than this, Be said, taking a scroll from the countertop and waving it. The Soothounds did seem like good money, but something was also clearly going on over there. Im not sure its a good idea for us to get involved anymore.


    I agree, Chance said, nodding quickly. The less Be and Yeo were near the Old City, the better. He trusted it a little more than he had before, but not nearly enough to risk their lives. There was no way to know for sure that it was telling the truth. Did we get any new jobs maybe? Something that pays a bit better?


    Not as a Foundling, Be said.


    Kids, I feel like theres a very obvious path to getting some better jobs, Pete drawled from his chair. I wish I could figure out what it was, though. Truly confounding.


    We could just try ranking up again? Chance offered. Theres no actual special test or the like this time, right? We can just go talk to Gibson and get a proctor assigned.


    Not Gibson, Be said, tossing the scroll back onto the counter. He hates getting bothered with small things, and this counts as small. We can head to the training grounds where we took our previous test and there should probably be someone there that can oversee the test. If not, we could check the Shikari base.


    Works for me, Yeo said, rolling his neck and grinning. Lets go, then. If its anything like thest exam, itll be done real quick and we can go make some money after.


    Pete bid them farewell as the three headed out of the house and headed to the training grounds. The ringing of metal and sh of Essence shing filled the air as they stepped through the iron gate and headed toward the center, passing dozens of sparring Shikari.


    Passing by several people sitting on the benches, Chance paused. He nced over his shoulder. The grey hair of one of the men had caught his eye, and the bow resting against his side confirmed the mans identity. He sat beside a heavyset man wearing cloth robes.


    Thats the guy that we ran into at Hounds, Chance said after theyd passed him.


    Oh, it is, Yeo said, ncing back to confirm. You think hes a proctor?


    He doesnt look all that much older than us, though, Chance said. He recalled Petes words about the corrtion between age and power, then cleared his throat. Guess that doesnt mean much, though. Do proctors also hunt monsters?


    All the Shikari do. Proctoring is just an extra bit, Be said. If you know him, we might as well ask.


    Im not so sure Id go as far as to say we know him, Chance hedged, but it was toote. Be and Yeo were already walking toward the man. He nced up at them, his hair covering arge portion of his face, as they arrived.


    You dont happen to be a proctor, do you? Be asked.


    I am not, the man said. He nced from Yeo to Chance, then a small grin yed across his face. Ah. The kids that tried to steal my hunt.


    What? Be nced at Yeo, her eyes going narrow. What did you do?


    Nothing, Yeo defended. We just happened to get pulled into his Ward after dinner one time.


    All in the past, Im sure, the man said, waving a hand dismissively. At least, I hope youre smart enough to leave it there. I see youve be Squires now. Not bad.


    Thanks, Chance said. But were Squires in all but name, Im afraid. Thats why were looking for a proctor. Would you happen know where we can find one? Were hoping to get approved so we can get some jobs that pay a little better.


    Thezy bastard sitting next to me is a proctor, but he was desperately hoping that I wouldnt point that out so he wouldnt have to work. He pped the heavy man beside him on the shoulder, earning himself a half-lidded, irate sigh.


    I hate you, Jorgin, therge main said, bracing his hands against his knees as he rose to his feet with a grunt. A loud grinding noise emanated from his joints as he moved to ponderously approach one of the empty training areas. He nced over his shoulder at them. Get over here. If you want to get tested, at least make it fast.


    Good luck, Jorgin said, not moving from his seat as they ran to the field.


    Im Derren, therge Shikari said, covering a yawn with a meaty hand. What house are you in?


    Whiteheart, Yeo supplied.


    Noted. This exam will be another team based one. I trust you remember how the first worked?


    They all nodded.


    Good, Derren said. Same rules apply. You may attack me however you like. The battle ends once all three of you have been either rendered unconscious or thrown out of bounds. If you are able to push me out of the arena, it will count as a win for you, but it is not necessary to pass.


    What is? Be asked.


    Youll find out once the test is done, Derren replied. He yawned again, then ran a hand through his thinning hair and scrunched his nose. Right then. Come on. Ive got a nap to get to.


    Chances urumi leapt to his hand and Yeo drew his kusarigama from his side, immediately duplicating it so he had one spinning weapon in each hand. Ice crept over Bes arms, traveling up to her shoulders and solidifying in jagged spikes.


    What are you waiting for? Derren asked.


    I kind of thought youd say start or something, Yeo said. Can we start?


    Derren sighed. Start.


    A sickle whipped through the air. Derren didnt even flinch as it struck him on the head, rebounding with a resounding ng. Yeo yanked the weapon back, his eyes wide. It hadnt even scratched Derren.


    Chance flicked his wrist to the side and the urumi shot out, scraping across Derrens side. Just like Yeo, the attack didnt even damage the mans body  in fact, it didnt even cut through his clothes.


    Oh, that is just not fair, Yeoined. Hes using aura. Could you at least look a little excited? You look bored out of your mind.


    No, Derren replied tly. I <em>am</em> bored.


    Be darted at him. Once again, Derren didnt budge. She struck him in the chest and ice crept along his body, trying to find purchase on the Shikaris clothes. It failed, evaporating without leaving a single trace on him.


    Narrowing her eyes, Be extended her hands. The air chilled between them, an icy axe slowly taking form in her grip. Its edge rippled with faint white and blue Essence. Be brought the de down on Derrens shoulder hard.


    She pulled the axe back, cold mist rising up from her white-knuckled hands. The strike had left a tiny nick in his clothes.


    Okay, thats prettyme, Be muttered. Your aura is incredible.


    Yeo spun his kusarigama and sent them flying out, binding one of Derrens legs tightly. He pulled back, his muscles straining as he desperately tried to move the man or knock him off bnce. Derren didnt budge.


    One more try, Yeo growled, yanking the weapons back. They traced glimmering arcs through the air as he started to pour Essence into the sickles. Yeo spun, releasing his grip on one of the weapons and catching it in his other hand. Metal Dragon Art: Executioner!


    The metal chains merged together, growing thicker and heavier. At the same time, the two sickles melded into a single,rger de. With a cry, Yeo brought the erged weapon down on Derren as hard as he could.


    It struck him on the neck and rebounded with a loud ng, splitting back off into two weapons. A thin cut along Derrens neck was all that Yeos efforts were rewarded with.


    I hate to say it, but I dont think any of my attacks are going to get through this Essence, Yeo growled. Chance? I dont suppose youve learned any techniques?


    Not yet, Chance admitted, opening his third eye and scanning Derren. He was covered with strings of Karma, most of them corresponding to monsters that Chance had never seen. If this had been a real fight, he never would have had time to look at all of them. But, since Derren wasnt even moving, he flicked through the scenes within the golden threads in search of the perfect target. Give me a second.


    Derren yawned again.


    This is themest fight Ive ever been in, Yeo muttered. Be, want to try to drag him out of the ring together? Ice the ground.


    Good idea, Be said, pointing a palm at the matted grass by Derrens feet. Frost formed over the ground, but arge circle around Derrens feet remainedpletely unaffected. Gods, I cant get through his aura at all. This is ridiculous. Hes even shielding the ground!


    Chance finally spotted a thick thread that would suit his purposes perfectly. It wasrger than most, and depicted a massive, hulking humanoid monster. It was covered in bulging muscles and carried a wicked war axe in a single hand, holding it like a childs toy.


    Grinning, he flicked his urumi. The de carved through the thread of karmic debt, drawing ice cold power through its links and into his body. Chance stiffened as it spread through his veins.


    You missed, Yeo observed.


    Chance tried to run at Derren, but he underestimated just how powerful the monster whose power he had stolen had been. His enhanced legs threw him straight into Derrens chest and he staggered back with a grunt.


    A tiny flicker of surprise passed through Derrens eyes. Chance shook himself off and took several steps back before lowering his body and charging into Derren, driving his shoulder into the mans gut.


    His teeth rattled from the force of the strike, but Derren grunted and took a single step back.


    Damn, have you been doing weight training? Yeo asked.


    Derren reared back and Chances eyes widened. So much for not fighting back. Chains whistled past Chance, wrapping around him and yanking him back. Derrens fist whistled past his face, just barely missing.


    Thanks, Chance said as Yeo freed him with a flick.


    Just do that again, Yeo said, nodding to Derren.


    Chance nodded. Be extended her hands, narrowing her eyes. The ice on the ground grew thicker, slowly creeping closer to Derrens feet. He nced at her, and Chance took the opportunity to charge him again.


    There was no point swinging his Urumi  the de wasnt suited for powerful blows, and he doubted it would do much to actually injure their proctor anyway. Instead, he threw himself into Derren once more.


    The two staggered, but Chance more than Derren.


    How are you doing that? Derren demanded, taking a step toward him. No Squire has that much physical strength.


    Chances eyes flicked over the lines of Karma. Yeos kusarigama shed again, this time binding around Derrens head and blocking his sight for an instant. Chance dove forward, throwing himself into the Shikaris legs.


    He grunted in pain. It was like tackling a brick wall. Derren cursed above him, staggering. There was a crunch, and he threw the crumpled remains of Yeos sickles to the ground beside Chance.


    As Derren knelt to grab him, Chance snagged a line of Karma with his finger. Essence lit around him as golden light poured out, forming into the jagged w of some reptilian monster. It raked across Derrens chest with a screech.


    The monsters ws only left a thin line in the cloth, but it distracted him for long enough for Be to swing her axe into his head as hard as she could. The icy weapon shattered with a loud crash, but Derren tripped over Chances body. He pitched back, crashing to the ground with such force that Chance was tossed into the air.


    Yeo caught him before he could fall on his head. Thest of the power he had stolen faded away as Derren slowly rose back to his feet.


    Thats terrifying, Yeo muttered, his eyes wide. I want to do that!


    Train more, Derren growled. He raised a foot and drove it into the ground. Chance, along with his team, were catapulted several feet into the air. Derren thrust a palm into the air and the earth beneath them erupted. Three tendrils shot out, splitting to target them.


    One caught Chance in the chest, sting him from the air and mming him to the ground outside the arena. Several cracks rang out as his bones broke and he cried out in pain. Dimly, he registered two thuds as Yeo and Be smashed down near him.


    Numbness raced up Chances back. He tried to move, but his legs wouldnt budge. Gritting his teeth, he forced his arm toboriously move down to his vial of healing pills. There were only a few left, but he didnt hesitate in forcing one into his mouth. As soon as it hit his tongue, the damage started to repair itself.


    He sat up with a groan. Be was already seated, icy armor falling off her in sheets. Shed managed to encase herself in it before she hit the ground, and it didnt look like shed been injured.


    To Chances surprise, Yeo was still in the arena. Hed managed to wrap one of his broken kusarigama chains around Derrens arm and had pulled himself through the strike so that he was still technically in the test.


    Yeo snapped his fingers and the particles of his broken weapons leapt into the air, shooting for Derrens nose and mouth. They ttered against an invisible wall in the air. Derren raised an eyebrow. Clearing his throat, Yeo stepped over the line and took himself out of the exam before Derren could reach him.

 Chapter 43: Ramdent

    Chapter 43: Ramdent


    Are you okay? Chance asked as he walked over to Be.


    Ive been hit worse, Be replied, brushing herself off with a grimace.


    Im fine too, Yeo put in, limping slightly as he walked to join them. By the way, Ill have it known that I did better than both of you.


    None of us could even hurt him, Be pointed out.


    You werent supposed to, Jorgin said, rising from his spot on the bench and apuding quietly. If you had, it would have been quite embarrassing for Derren.


    He pulled a pill from a vial at his side and tossed it to Yeo, who ate it without an instant of hesitation. His leg popped as something slid back into ce and he let out a relieved sigh.


    Thanks.


    How did we do? Be asked.


    More than eptable, Derren replied, yawning again. I wasnt expecting any of you to actually be able to move me, and you had some decent ideas for teamwork, even if none of them really worked.


    They all let out a relieved sigh.


    I think you can say more than that, Jorgin drawled. Whens thest time you got knocked off your feet, Derren?


    Been a while, the proctor said, his lips turning down. He nodded to Chance. What path do you cultivate, boy?


    Karma.


    Derren grunted. He pulled a metal disk out of a pocket and pressed his thumb into it. He fiddled with it for a few moments, then returned it to his pocket. Noted. Well, you all pass. Ill put in word with the Shikari and you should be all set. Good job. Now, unless youre going to make me test you for Knight rank


    We arent, Chance said hurriedly. He was pretty sure the knight ranked exam would probably involve actually fighting Derren, and they were nowhere near strong enough for that. Not yet. Out of curiosity, what rank are you?


    Duke. Derren ambled back over to his bench and flopped down. Chance winced, expecting the man to crash straight through it, but the Shikarinded so silently that he didnt even hear it. Im taking my nap now. Dont bother me again, Jorgin.


    Derren closed his eyes and let his head loll back over the edge of the bench. Jorgin snorted.


    Well, congrattions on your promotion. You all actually did a pretty fair job of surprising him. He normally doesnt show much emotion at all.


    Are you sure we should be talking? We dont want to wake him up, Chance said.


    Dont worry, he can sleep through anything he wants to. He already sent the information about your rank up to the base, so congrattions. Youre all officially Squires.


    Awesome! Yeo eximed, pumping a hand in the air. Lets go get a job! An expensive one.


    Weve still got to wait for them to show up at our house, Be pointed out.


    Yeos face fell. Jorgin rolled his eyes and reached into a pocket, pulling out a slip of paper. Ive got a Squire ranked job here, if you want it. I picked it up, but I decided I couldnt be bothered to actually take care of it.


    Really? Why do you have something so low level? Youve got to be around Derrens rank, right? Chance asked.


    Be took the paper from Jorgin and unfolded it, scanning through its contents. Jorgin gave them a half-hearted shrug.


    Nah, Im nowhere near his rank. And sometimes you just want to try doing something easy. Trust me, unless youre really shooting for the stars, money isnt going to be an issue for much longer. Especially after you hit Knight rank.


    I dont like the implication that we arent going for the top, Yeo said, narrowing his eyes.


    Ah, Jorgin said, scrunching his nose in distaste. Youre one of <em>those</em>. I should have known, I guess. Nobody in their right mind would call out their technique names. Thats just telling your opponent what youre doing, you know. Oh well, no skin off my back. Enjoy being poor, kid.


    Yeo stuck his tongue out and turned to Be. Well? Whats the job?


    Elimination request for an aggressive Ramdent not too far from here, Be replied, peeling her eyes from the paper. It pays five hundred gold.


    Chance and Yeo froze.


    Five hundred gold? Chance asked in awe. Thats so much more than the Foundling quests!


    Where is it? I dont know what a Ramdent is, but Im going to kick its teeth in.


    Rose district, apparently. Again, Be replied. Not too far.


    Lets go, then!


    Yeo snatched the paper from Bes hands and darted for the exit. Chance waved to Jorgin as he and Be rushed to follow after Yeo.


    Thanks for the help and the job!


    Any time, Jorgin replied, raising a hand in farewell and giving them a sly smile. I wish you the best of luck.


    ***


    Jorgin watched the three rush out of the training area, waiting several seconds before rising to his feet. Derrens hand shot out, grabbing him by the wrist before he could take more than one step away.


    Jorgin turned, looking down at Derren. The mans round face was red and he trembled with exertion. Cocking his head to the side, Jorgin reached into a pouch at his waist. He pulled a Ward out and activated it.


    A small blue dome bloomed just above the two of them, not muchrger than the bench Derren sat on. Energy rippled through the air and their surrounds changed, dirt turning to cold ck marble.


    The bench warped, wood melting away as jagged obsidian forked out to rece it, jutting at odd angles as if it were in italics.


    I did not expect you to be able to move, Jorgin said.


    Ive got strong aura, Derren growled, spitting each word through clenched teeth as heboriously rose from the bench. His shoulders shook, but he managed to keep his feet out under him.


    So you do, Jorgin said. Your part is done. You have performed admirably. It would have been wiser to pretend to still be asleep.


    D-dont make fun of me. You knew. As soon as I broke your control over my body, you knew.


    Also true. I had just hoped we might take this up at a more opportune location.


    Who are you? What do those kids have to do with this? Derren ground out. Why force me to give them a test like that?


    Everything must be perfect, Jorgin replied in a lilting tone. It is important that he sees the true strength of the world. The normal test would have given him false belief of his strength.


    Derren lunged, but it was like he was moving underwater. Jorgin shifted to the side and the Shikaris sluggish attack passed by him harmlessly.


    You forced me to fight with that much power just to make the test more difficult? Youre insane.


    You speak as if it was a troublesome task for me to do such, Jorgin said, raising a hand. Fear not. You will still be of use.


    Several secondster, the Ward faded. Jorgin reappeared in the training grounds. Of Derren, there was no trace.


    ***


    That is the ugliest thing I have ever seen in my entire life, Yeo said, his kusarigama at the ready.


    Chance couldnt help but agree. It had taken them about an hour of searching around the alleyways in the Rose district to locate the Ramdent. Luckily, the Old City hadnt given him any trouble. But, now that the creature stood in front of them, he almost wished it had.


    The Ramdent was some idiots idea of a joke. It was a little shorter than him, with arge, bulbous body and a scab-covered tail that was twice as long as it was tall. It looked like how he pictured a rat from New York, except for one grotesque difference. Its head was that of a ram  if someone had beaten it ck and blue and pped it on without bothering to clean anything up.


    Horns stuck out of the monsters head at odd angles, and one of its eyes was swollen shut. The other, square pupiled and dted with blood, darted between the three of them at a breakneck speed.


    Gods, we need to put this thing out of its misery, Be said, ice covering her body. The Ramdent let out a baritone squeak and backed up against the wall of the alley, pulling its bloody lips back to reveal rows of sharp rodent fangs. Blood dripped from its mouth and sttered to the ground.


    Agreed, Yeo said. This alley isnt the best for me, though. Can we get it out into the street?


    Not until we get a Ward up, Be replied, an axe forming in her hands. We cant let it injure anyone, and this thing looks like it snapped three years ago.


    The Ramdent let out a chittering screech. Evidently tired of waiting, it blurred at Yeo, who let out a mixture of a yelp and a curse before vaulting backward, narrowly avoiding getting bit.


    Chance slipped forward, his third eye already open, and cut a karmic thread connected to the frothing monster. He elected to cut one connected to a Soothound,rgely because he was already familiar with the benefits it would give. There were several other monsters tied to the Ramdent, but he didnt want to risk anything new in the middle of a fight.


    Cold energy slipped into his veins and a strand of gold mist leapt from his palm. It struck the Ramdent, sinking into its matted fur without any resistance.


    It doesnt have much of an aura, Chance said, flicking his urumi to keep the monster at bay. It hissed at him, trying to bite at the sword but failing miserably.


    Be reared back and lobbed her axe. It spun once before embedding itself square in the Ramdents head, sttering blood across the alleyway. Staggering, the creature crashed to the ground and went still.


    Wait, seriously? Yeo asked, lowering his kusarigama. Thats it? I dont want to sound ungrateful, but


    Chance started to nod in agreement, but he paused. There were still karmic threads connected to the Ramdent. His eyes narrowed. I dont think its dead. Its doing something.


    Neither of them questioned him. Be reached into her bag and pulled her Ward out, activating it without a second of hesitation. With a thrum of energy, a blue dome bloomed in the air above them. It lowered, sealing off arge portion of the alley.


    Be suddenly doubled over, groaning in pain. She staggered, leaning a hand against the wall.


    Be? Chance asked, rushing to her side. Are you okay?


    Vines erupted around the Ramdent, rapidly nketing the walls and floor of the alley around it. Thick foliage erupted from the grass, and the walls fell away as they quickly spread throughout the alley.


    Its taking control of the Ward. Yeo warned. Be, snap out of it!


    Be gritted her teeth, leaning on Chance as she straightened back up. The rapid growth slowed. Bricks started to appear once more, but at a slow rate. The shimmering walls of the Ward descended around them, making contact with the ground.


    The Ramdent staggered back to its feet, the axe still sprouted from its head. It shook itself off, then let out a low growl and slipped into the twisting vines, vanishing from view.


    Shit. I wasnt prepared for that level of mental assault, Be said. It managed to modify the Ward.


    Whatever, Yeo replied, spinning his sickle and grinning. It widened our fighting area. This is good for me. Now we just need to find it.


    Chance scanned the thick foliage covering roughly half of the Ward, searching for any signs of the Ramdent. The heavy vines wererge and loose enough that it was impossible to tell exactly where it had gone. He grimaced.


    That might be a bit hard. Can it wait us out?


    No. The Ward wont drop until its dead or we are, Be replied. And its on more of a timer than we are. I cant imagine it can sit around bleeding forever.


    I dont suppose you can detect your axe? Yeo asked.


    Nope. Its just ice. No clue what happened to it.


    Figures, Yeo grumbled. Chance?


    Chances third eye wasnt doing much either. Evidently, there was only so much he could look through before he lost sight of the karmic threads. I cant see it either. It had a pretty weak aura, though, so I might be able to find it in a different way. Hold on.


    Chance gathered golden mist in his free hand while he raised his urumi with the other. He was already lucky  whether that was good or bad luck, he wasnt entirely sure. But he still had luck  and it was time to share a little bit of it with their opponent.


    The golden mist poured from his palm, slithering across the stone and slipping into the vines. Several seconds passed. A small patch of vines to their right rustled. As one, Yeo and Chance both sent attacks in its direction.


    Yeos sickle sliced through several of the vines but failed to prate deep enough  but Chances urumi bit into flesh.


    Ive got it! Chance yelled, yanking the de back. Blood sttered across the ground and a furious roar echoed through the Ward. Arge, battered monster staggered out from within the vines. It was the Ramdent, but there wasnt much left of thetter half of its name.


    The monster hadpletely turned into a ram that stood nearly twice the height of what it had before. Thick, ropey muscles covered its body and two new jagged horns sprouted from either side of its head. Arge, gaping wound seeped blood right between its eyes. There was no sight of Bes axe.


    Well, now I wish you hadnt, Be muttered, forming a new axe in her hands. Be careful. It looks more dangerous now.


    We attack as one when it makes its move, Yeo said, the Ramdent approaching them with bared teeth. They all nodded.


    It attacked, and they leapt into action.

 Chapter 44: Montage

    Chapter 44: Montage


    The alley  if it could even still be called that  was in tatters. Between the three of them and the Ramdent, their surroundings had been torn to bits. Vinesid in ragged heaps on the ground and scores covered the stones within the Warded dome.


    Yeos weapons were in hundreds of pieces, and patches of ice had whitened the walls and turned foliage grey. He, Chance, and Be were all covered in cuts and small wounds. Before them, the corpse of the Ramdentid still.


    It hade back to life a total of five times, each time returning angrier and more battered. But, finally, itid unmoving. Chance retraced his urumi and leaned against a wall, catching his breath.


    You think its actually dead? Yeo asked. Pieces of metal rattled across the ground, congregating around him as his kusarigama reformed.


    I think we got it this time, Chance said, pushing away from the wall and pulling an orb from his pouch. He still didnt actually know if they had an official name, but he was so used to just thinking of them as orbs that he doubted hed change anytime soon.


    He approached the dead monsters body carefully, flicking the orb onto it once he was close enough. It struck the Ramdent on the head, swallowing the entire thing with a blue sh. He knelt, pocketing the orb as he straightened back up.


    Be released the ward and the blue dorm fell. Around them, the alley reformed. Chance was pushed several feet to the side abruptly, and a wall appeared where hed been standing. He caught his bnce, then let out a slow breath.


    I am really d I didnt reappear inside that wall.


    That would a pretty ring design w, Yeo agreed, brushing himself off. But damn, we beat that things ass. Are we cool or what?


    I didnt y that as well as I should have. Be pressed her lips together. I got caught off guard. I wasnt expecting that thing toe back, so it managed to get some control over the Ward.


    Its fine. It worked out in the end. Chance waved his hand dismissively. And that was clearly a pretty strong monster. You managed to keep most of the Ward the way it should be. Thats probably better than I could have done. Whats the Ward based off? Cultivation?


    Aura, Be replied.


    Then you definitely did better than Yeo or I could have.


    Hey! You might bepletely right, but I have a very fragile ego, Yeo said, jabbing his chest with a thumb. I only eptpliments, and I tore that thing up.


    He really had. Once the field had opened up, Yeo had been a menace. With the Ramdents weak aura and the room to really get his kusarigama swinging, Yeo had been responsible for three of the five monsters deaths.


    Aside from the Ward mistake, I think we all did pretty well. And we didnt even damage the city, so we should get all five hundred coins.


    Im going to spend all of it on cultivation aid pills. The less I have to cultivate, the better.


    Be rolled her eyes. Just dont use too many and stack up on impurities, or youll end up looking like someone from Earth.


    She paused, then nced at Chance. Sorry. I didnt mean


    Its fine, Chance said with a chuckle. His stomach twisted slightly at his continued deception of his team, but the only thing he wanted less than somehow getting them in trouble with Yamish was getting Bob in trouble somehow. Hed find a way to tell them. Eventually. Shall we go turn this in?


    ***


    Wow, youre already Squires? J asked, pping her hands in delight. She sat on Burgets counter, kicking her legszily.


    Please get off my window, Burget said with a heavy sigh. Youre blocking my view of the Shikari.


    J slowly turned to look at him. Are you calling me fat? Im sure you can see past me. Theres so much room.


    There was not. Chance decided that it would be best that he not point that out.


    Yes, Burget said. I am. Now move.


    J harrumphed and jumped down. Several yells came from a table at the far end of the room, followed by a crash. J strode toward it, cracking her knuckles in preparation. She looked ufortably eager.


    That was bold, Yeo said as Chance put the orb on the desk.


    Burget took it, sliding it into his silver box. Js only problems are sleeping on the job or fighting inside the base. As long as you dont do either of those, you can do what you want.


    A loud thud echoed out, and the yelling abruptly stopped. Burget slid his box back beneath the counter and gave them a grunt.


    Youre all set. Pay will arrive in a day or two. Need anything else?


    Thats it, Be said. Thanks.


    Burget grunted again. He leaned down, resting his forehead on his forearms, and started to snore. Chance cast a nervous nce at J, who was heading in their direction. The three of them quickly made for the exit of the base.


    Bye kids! J called, grabbing a bottle from a table as she passed it. Make sure toe back again soon!


    She brought the bottle crashing down on Burgets head right as the three slipped out the door.


    Shes insane, Yeo said. Kinda pretty, though.


    Both Chance and Be side-eyed him.


    Shed kill you within the first day, Chance said.


    I think you might be overestimating his tenacity, Be said. Id give it half that. Yeo doesnt have nearly enough aura to survive J, even if she <em>did </em>like him.


    Yeo slicked his hair back and arched an eyebrow, making a face that he probably thought was handsome. Youre telling me anyone wouldnt instantly fall for this beautiful mug of mine?


    Yes, Chance and Be said at the same time.


    Neither of you have any taste, Yeo dered.


    They allughed, heading back toward the Whiteheart house. As they walked down the busy streets of Main za Road, a thrum ran over all three of them. The traffic vanished and a dome bloomed in the sky above them.


    Seriously? Be asked,ing to a stop.


    I me Chance, Yeo said quickly. This is his fault. Hes the only one that gets attacked every single time he goes into the city.


    Not <em>every</em> time, Chance said, readying his urumi and ncing around. The dome fell around them, then vanished an instantter. The foottraffic snapped back all around them, and arge man nearly bowled all three of them over before he shuffled to the side, muttering under his breath as he disappeared into the crowd.


    Chance hurriedly put his weapon away and started walking again to avoid turning into a roadblock.


    Well, they handled that fast, Be said. Lets get back before Chance gets us pulled into another one, though.


    Hey! You cant join in on that too. This isnt my fault!


    Nobody gets pulled into crap as much as you do, Be said. In all my years of working alone, I only got dragged into a Ward once. This is, what, your third time in a few months?


    I plead the fifth.


    Fifth? Be asked.


    Its aw on Earth, Yeo exined. Means they dont have to say something thatll obviously hurt their case in a court.


    Be just shook her head. Luckily, the rest of their trip back to the Whiteheart house went entirely unmolested. When they got back, the three returned to their rooms to cultivate.


    Chance wasted no time in bringing the vision of the enormous golden being to his mind, weing the increasingly familiar feeling of tightness and heat that wove around his chest as he contemted Karma.


    Three weeks passed in a simr manner. They did a job every few days, spending the rest of their time either inbat training or in cultivation. At night, Chance often slipped away to the Old City, working his way through the growing ranks of monsters that it threw at him.


    His skill  and luck  with the urumi reached the point where his sparring sessions with Yeo were no longer one sided, and he even started to win some of them. Chance also finished reading the dictionary and managed to get a decent grasp of Centurions writtennguage.


    The technique book Pete had gotten him still rested on his counter. Chance had long since read through and managed to memorize the writtennguage of Centurion, and as soon as hed gotten a grasp on it, the first thing hed done was read through the manual.


    However, what he found didnt interest him as much as he had hoped. The manual detailed a way to imbue a weapon with Karma, which would enhance its attacks significantly. Unfortunately, the ability was cited to take at least a year to just start using properly. The grasp over Essence that was required to properly imbue a weapon was so high that there were over a dozen prior steps that he had to through before even considering using the technique. On top of all that, it just felt wrong. When he tried testing it out, even with his limited understanding, the flow of Essence felt oily to him.


    As such, Chance had temporarily set it aside. There were other ways he could grow stronger faster, and the technique could wait until he survived Yamish and the Old City. However, it did make him wonder just how Yeo and Be had both gotten techniques for themselves.


    But, to his immense delight and with the benefits of his vision, Chance could feel himself palpably growing stronger. He was less winded after every fight, and his urumi often mistakenlynded strikes that he was certain hed missed.


    All three of them spent arge portion of the money they earned on supplies and pills, but Chance had one key advantage that the other two didnt. While Be and Yeo only dared to take a single cultivation aid pill a day, Chance spent every single coin he earned on them.


    With no impurities to worry about, he often used four or five pills a day, and the results were bing apparent. The power gap between them and Chance quickly closed. Between the extra pills he took and histe-night training sessions with the Old City, his skills were growing at an incredible pace.


    Unfortunately, Chance could see an end in sight to his current boost of growth. With every pill he took, he could feel their effectiveness decreasing. His body was building a resistance to them, which meant hed have to start buying more expensive ones if he wanted them to have any affect at all.


    Hed taken to gathering the bodies of the monsters the Old City threw at him, storing them within orbs. He wasnt quite sure if he wanted to sell them yet, so hed had to spend some money on extra orbs, but they were fortunately rather cheap.


    Of Yamish, there was still no sign. That, more than anything, wore heavily on Chances mind. The Old City didnt show itself again either, though it still interacted with him through symbols on the walls whenever he went.


    Even though the tournament was just a week away, the only thing Chance could think about was getting strong enough to defeat Yamish.


    Emerging from his room, Chance passed by Yeo and Bes rooms  both of them were still cultivating  and headed downstairs. He headed out of the Whiteheart house and down Shikari Lane, seeking out the Old City.


    He stepped into an alleyway, where the walls were already warping to provide him passage. They closed behind him, leaving Chance alone in the cracked, empty streets.


    Chances bracelet expanded into an urumi and he flicked the sword instinctively, cutting down a Soothound as it leapt from the shadows. The monsters body thumped to the ground and he put it into an orb.


    The orb joined his collection and he sighed, turning to the walls.


    Do you know how long Ive got? Im not going to get strong enough to beat a Knight, much less someone of Yamishs power anytime soon.


    A question mark carved itself into the wall. Chance rubbed the bridge of his nose.


    Is there a reason you dont just write? Wouldnt that makemunication a little easier?


    There was no response. Chance shook his head and shrugged.


    You do you, I guess. Its pretty unlikely Im going to be able to handle Yamish anytime soon, though. Our best bet might be ying along for as long as possible, because Im pretty sure that hes going to be back long before I get strong enough to annoy him, much less beat him.


    The question mark turned to a circle. Evidently, the Old City wasnt feeling particrly conversational today. Beneath Chances feet, cracked stone rippled in a tiny wave, making him stumble deeper into the alleys.


    Alright, alright. Iming. What do you have for me to fight this time? Chance asked, heading into the darkness. Another Soothound leapt at him and his de shed, sending the monster crumpling to the ground. He collected it as well.


    The Old City didnt respond to Chances question, but he hadnt particrly expected it to either. In its own way, it was trying to prepare him for what wasing. At least, he hoped it was. Training was training, though, and he needed everything he could get.

 Chapter 45: Lucy

    Chapter 45: Lucy


    Chances footfalls echoed through the cracked alleys of the Old City. Several jagged tears ran through one of the new shirts hed bought, from where a warped Soothound had managed to catch him.


    The Old City had run him ragged this time, sending several dozen of therger Soothounds him at once. If the square theyd been fighting in had been a littlerger, they probably would have just swarmed him. But, due to the tight quarters, the monsters were practically tripping over each other as they tried to get to him.


    Even though he was walking away victorious, Chance couldnt shake the dissatisfaction hanging over him.


    <em>If I can barely handle a bunch of Soothounds, how am I supposed to do anything against Yamish? </em>


    He shook his head, lost in his own thoughts. A passageway opened up before him, leading into Gleam proper, and he started down it. Chance was so distracted that he didnt spot the person standing at the end of the path until he was nearly upon her.


    Chance nearly leapt a foot into the air as he finally spotted an older woman leaning against a wall, arge wooden tankard full of frothy beer in her hands. Tangled, gray hair hung low over her shoulders and her clothes were stained.


    She cast azy nce in Chances direction, and the two locked eyes for a few moments. Chance swallowed. Thest thing he needed was for someone to start wondering why he was walking through walls.


    <em>Maybe shes too drunk to notice?</em>


    The woman raised the tankard to her lips and took a long swing from it. She belched, lowering it and wiping her mouth with the back of a sleeve.


    What are ya staring at, kid?


    Nothing, sorry, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head with an awkwardugh. I was just walking, I guess. Didnt mean to bother you.


    The woman hupped, then took another drink from her tankard. Convenient. Mind helping me to the tavern? I got lost.


    Sure, if you can tell me where it is. Are you sure you should have any more to drink though? You might get sick, Chance said, taking a step toward her. If she hadnt seen what had happened, there was no reason not to help out.


    Chance paused, his eyes catching on the tankard. It was still full. The womans head lolled to the side.


    What are you waiting for? Help me out here, its probably just around the corner. I just need a bit of support getting there.


    Id love to help, Chance said carefully. Could you just tell me why you need to go to the tavern first?


    To get drunk, you blithering idiot. Why else?


    Why would you need to go to a tavern to get drunk when your tankard doesnt seem to run out?


    The woman stopped moving. A small grin tugged at the corners of her lips and she straightened up, pushing away from the wall with no effort.


    Keen eye you got there, kid.


    Lets just call it lucky, Chance replied. Is there something you want with me?


    The woman let out a bark ofughter. Want with you? Thats one way to put it. I cant be the first to make it, can I? The trip here took so long.


    The first? Of what? Chance watched her for the slightest sign of aggression, but the woman seemed content to just stand. Unfortunately, she was also standing directly in his path back to Gleam. He could always retreat back into the Old City if things got hairy.


    The woman cocked an eyebrow. Maybe I am. Huh. Thats a first. I try to make it a point not to be timely.


    Im afraid youve lost me.


    Chance discretely sent Essence into his third eye. He paused. There wasnt a single thread of Karma attached to her. As far as he knew, it was impossible to bepletely free of any debt  unless she wasnt free at all.


    Youre a Karma cultivator.


    What did I tell you? Astute, the woman praised, raising her tankard to him in approval before upending it down her gullet. She let out a satisfied sigh, lowering it to reveal that it was still filled to the brim. You figure that out on your own?


    <em>If Im telling someone else about Yamish, it definitely isnt a random woman I ran into in an alleyway.</em>


    Does it matter much? Chance asked, deflecting the question. Why would you seek me out, though? Just curiosity?


    The woman snorted. Havent you noticed, kid? Things are drawn to you. Well, not you in particr  all Karma cultivators have a pull. Call it luck or whatever you want, but weve got a pull. When a new cultivator of our path shows up, the peanut gallery pops up to take a look at them.


    Chance couldnt see any real aggression in her posture, and he allowed himself to rx slightly as well.


    If you dont mind me asking  why? Something tells me youvee from farther than just the neighborhood. That cant just be to satisfy your curiosity.


    He was graced with a wide smile for his question. If you dont have a teacher, than Ill be happy to pass along a little nugget of my own wisdom. Nothing in this universe is free. For every great boon, there is a great payment. For every victory, you must sacrifice. You get the picture, yeah?


    If nothing is free, why are you giving me advice?


    Her grin grew wider. Because its a lot easier to pay the prices of the universe when youve got a whole bunch of expert maniptors of it standing at your side. Karma cultivators seek each other out to establish Karma. Wemand incredible power, but the cost is that we have to tear it from the universes unwilling hands. That tends to lead to pretty big payments, if you get my picture.


    So youre here to form an alliance with me?


    This time, the woman burst intoughter. Not in a hundred years, kid. Your power is a fart in a hurricane. But  maybe after a hundred years  you might be useful. Then, when the universe decides its my time to pay up, Ille knocking on your door.


    Thats an interesting way to do things. So all the Karma cultivators help each other out?


    Her smile fell. No, not all of them. But hey, youre still around, so evidently your power wasnt a big enough pull to get any of the real nasty bastards around. No need to worry about them now.


    Right, Chance said slowly. He nced around, then sat down on an old wooden crate. It didnt look like this conversation would be ending anytime soon. I think I follow, then. Im not sure Ill be alive long enough to help you, but if I am, and you havent done anything reprehensible, then Ill try to help pay you back. I assume things have to be in bnce, though, so am I just supposed to answer one of your questions in return?


    If I only showed up to get a question answered, you wouldnt be much help at all when the time came, the woman said with a chuckle. You dont have a teacher, right? Ill step in. For a bit, at least. Teaching is a lot of effort, you know.


    I dont doubt that. Does that mean there are a bunch of other Karma cultivators headed toward Gleam as well?


    Its possible, but probably not. Especially not if I was the first to find you, she said with a shrug. As I said, Im usually reallyte at these things. If nobody popped up before me, your arrival on Centurion wasnt powerful enough to draw anyone too significant. Dont let it get you down. Its for the best.


    Chance nearly told her about Yamish on the spot, but he held his tongue. The woman seemed nice, but Yamish had too. For that matter, he still wasnt even certain that the Old City wasnt lying to him. He resisted the urge to tug at his hair in annoyance.


    <em>Why cant everything just be easy?</em>


    Im Chance, by the way. We havent introduced ourselves yet.


    Lucy. Pleasure, Chance. Youll have to forgive me, but Im going to forget your name. When you get to my age, you meet too many people to keep track of them all  especially when most of em will be dead in a few years anyway.


    Thats a bleak way to look at things, but I get the feeling youre a lot older than you look.


    Lucy narrowed her eyes. You got ady friend, kid?


    What? No.


    I couldnt have guessed. You have such a way with words, Lucy drawled. She took another long swig from her tankard, then let out an impressive, five second long belch. Right, boy. As much as Id like to sit around here and talk, I cant stick around for too long.


    Chance blinked. What? I thought you came here specifically just to do that.


    I came here to offer you a bit of training, Lucy corrected. Not to be your permanent mentor. A mentor rtionship is much more work than teaching you a few tricks. No offense, but I cant afford to take a weak Karma cultivator under my wing indefinitely. Theres too much risk.


    I see. So youre just going to teach me something and leave?


    Exactly. If it saves your life down the road, Id say thats a pretty big boon, wouldnt you?


    Thats clever. Yeah, I see that. I cant object either, I need all the strength I can get.


    Very good, Lucy said. I can tell youre already a Rank Two.


    You mean a Squire? Yeah. I reached it pretty recently.


    Hows your grasp over your Essence?


    I think its decent enough, Chance replied. I dont really have anyone to properlypare myself to, but I think my cultivation is going well.


    What about techniques and physicalbat?


    Imcking there, and more than a bit, Chance admitted. Ive got a technique book, but I havent read it yet. Didnt feel right.


    Oh? Youre already reading currents?


    What?


    Never mind, Lucy said, shaking her head. Listen to your instincts. If you dont think its time yet, then it isnt time. There could be a whole slew of reasons why, but they dont matter. Physicalbat, then. I can tell from the way you carry yourself that youve got no real training.


    Ive fought a bunch of monsters.


    Lucy cocked an eyebrow. She took a swig from her tankard, then flung it at his head. It struck him in the chest, sending him staggering backward as he tried to catch it  but the tankard was nowhere to be found. When he nced up, the woman was holding it once more.


    Pathetic, Lucy said, shaking her head. Youve got some instinct, and youve managed to survive against some weak enemies, but thats not the same as real training, boy.


    I cant argue with that. But we dont have much time, you said it yourself. Time is one thing we cant exactly ount for.


    Free lesson number two  anything in this universe is possible if you can pay for it, Lucy drawled.


    Your first lesson was that nothinges for free.


    Good. Youre learning. Now tell me  what are you willing to pay?


    Chance dug through his pockets. Uh, Ive got about fifty gold and some pills. Healing, cultivation aid, and a bunch of monsters in orbs.


    I dont want your garbage, boy. Are you going to offer me your underwear next?


    Chance hid a grin. Is that going to help?


    Lucy paused, then burst intoughter. I didnt expect that from you. I took you for a shy prude.


    Being polite doesnt make you shy.


    Well, no matter how polite you offer them, I dont want your underwear. Maybe we can talk again in two hundred years, if youre still kicking around. But when I ask for payment, theres no amount of coin you could cover this with.


    What is it, then? Time? Im not particrly rich there, Im afraid. And neither are you.


    Wrong. Ive got time, theres just no good reason for me to waste a lot of it on you. But your time  Im more than happy to spend that.


    Im not sure I can afford to. There are things happening in the near future that could put me and my friends in a lot of danger, Chance said carefully. I dont think I can afford to disappear or anything like that. Theyd also worry about what happened to me.


    Lucy put a hand on her hip and cocked her head to the side. Statistically, theyll be dead in a hundred years. Youd be better off sacrificing a few years now to get a chance to survive. You can always find new friends.


    Chance shook his head. No thank you. Thats not how I want to leave. I dont care what might happen. Im going to do my best to live how I want to. If that ends with me dead, then so be it.


    The bold words of a child, but I wont be the one to crush you. How much weight do you put behind that dream of yours?


    Its this or nothing. I wont let this world change me. Ill change it.


    Lucy snorted. Everyone wants to think that they matter. Sure, kid. You wont make it long with an attitude like that, but if youre confident in your words, Ive got something that might help you out. You wont lose a wink of time either.


    Chance paused. Hed fully expected Lucy to leave after thatst statement.


    And what does it cost?


    She smiled. Willpower, mostly. If you screw up, itll be pretty bad. You wont die, but there are fates worse than death. But, if youre going to get anywhere as a cultivator, you cant shy away from risk.


    Ive learned that, Chance said, trying to read her face and failing miserably. Despite her apparent age, there was something off in the womans eyes. They were t and distant, like she was talking to a mildly amusing animal rather than another human. Can you tell me what it is?


    A fighting style. Itll treat you well if you can master it, and itll break you if you cant. Pretty simple. This is myst offer, though. You arent worth any more, kid.


    Chance chewed his inner cheeks. Sure, the offer was tempting. But Lucy had told him herself  nothing came for free. The stronger something was, the more it would cost. This opportunity sounded pretty convenient, and that probably meant it would be anything but.


    It wont take any time?


    Youll leave this alley right after I leave, whether you pass or fail.


    Chances lips pressed together and he gave her a curt nod. Ill do it, then. I need the power.


    I thought as much, Lucy said. She reached into a sleeve and pulled out a small, gold stone. She flicked it through the air and it struck Chance in the forehead. There was a brilliant sh, and the world peeled away like petals of a blooming rose.

 Chapter 46: L2cy

    Chapter 46: L2cy


    Warmth washed over Chance, and he realized his eyes were closed. He opened them as a gentle breeze brushed past him  so light that he could barely feel it. All around him, an endless sea of knee-high wheat rustled in a field lit in a golden glow.


    The sun hung in the sky overhead, unburdened by clouds. Even the sky had taken on its hue, changing from blue to a warm, pinkish orange. Chance blinked as drowsiness threatened to set in.


    Again? Seriously?


    I guarantee that this hasnt happened to you before.


    Chance turned to find Lucy standing behind him. He blinked, upon closer inspection realizing that while she strongly resembled the cultivator, her hair was ck instead of graying and the lines of age on her face were nowhere to be found. This woman looked to be roughly thirty, and could have been Lucys daughter.


    Petes warning about the nature of a cultivators age ran through Chances head and he inclined his head respectfully before quickly raising it again. Showing respect was one thing, but he wasnt going to let his guard down either.


    To his relief, his purple, thorny bracelet still sat on his wrist. Whatever Lucy had done, shed allowed him to keep the weapon.


    I meant appearing somewhere I dont recognize, Chance said. Could I ask you name? Im Chance. Lucy sent me here.


    I gathered, the woman replied, rolling her neck and yawning. And Im Lucy. A part of her, at least. You know what a fragment of will is?


    A clone?


    Its a tiny portion of Essence. It exists to execute the will of its owner at the time of its creation.


    Chances mouth formed into an o. Despite not technically being Lucy, he decided to keep thinking of the fragment as her just to make things easier for himself.


    Lucy made you specifically to train me?


    Lucy snorted. No. She made me to <em>train</em>. Id imagine she looks a little different than I do, right?


    A bit older.


    What, does her hair have streaks in it or something now?


    It was pretty much all gray and white.


    Lucys eyes widened and she let out a whistle. Oh wow. Its been a while. Few hundred years at the minimum, since I  shes never been a big fan of any appearance changing items.


    You mean she isnt immortal? Chance asked in surprise. A swaying stalk of wheat tickled his arm and he yanked it back before he realized it was just a nt.


    No, she is, Lucy replied with a shake of her head. But the kind of Karma we cultivate ages us. Shes been spending a bit too much and paying to little, but I dont me her. Id do the same.


    That was kind of a given, I think. Chance chuckled. So youre here to train anyone that she sends?


    Well, I was originally here to train myself, Lucy replied. I  we  were working on developing a fighting style. After spending years learning different forms of martial arts, Lucy got herself really set on a particr style, but it didnt match her personality very well. Thus, I was created. My job was to constantly practice and try to evolve the style into something that worked.


    Chances eyes widened at the implications of what Lucy had said. People who were strong enough to make fragments of themselves could literally just set them on a task and forget about it.


    <em>How many fragments can someone make at once? This is ridiculous. Even if its just a few, there are so many things I need to do in a day. I could have an insane amount of free time to practice or cultivate if I just made clones of myself do all the other work. </em>


    Cultivation is a path to power, Lucy said, reading Chances eyes. But making fragments is not easy. Its not what Im here to teach you either.


    Right, Chance said. He brought himself back on topic and cleared his throat. So did you seed?


    Lucy gave him a bitter smile. No. I did get a very solid grasp over a fighting technique, but by the time I did, Lucy had advanced so much that shed developed her own independently of me, and my new technique was worthless.


    Chance winced. Oh. Im sorry.


    I was too. Unfortunately, Lucy is a little scatterbrained. Shepletely forgot about me for a few hundred years. I Lucy cut herself off and drew in a slow breath. She let it out through her mouth and shook her head. It doesnt matter. My purpose was to learn this fighting style, and I did. She hasnt trained with me since then, nor has anyone else. Youre the first.


    Chances eyes widened. Me? Why?


    Probably because she felt youd be a fit, Lucy replied, giving him a one-shouldered shrug. Or you were dispensable enough to sacrifice. One of the two. Honestly, I thought shed just gotten bored and forgot me.


    For my mental health, Im going to hope it was the first one, Chance decided. And time doesnt pass here?


    It does not, Lucy confirmed. This isnt really happening. Your body isnt here  just your mind. You wont gain any muscle in this ce, nor will you be able to cultivate. But youll remember what happens.


    That seems like a good tradeoff.


    Lucy grunted. Only if you dont break.


    What?


    Never mind that, Lucy replied. Im going to attempt to teach you the fighting style that I developed. Learn it. Maybe then my work will at least be of some use.


    Chance gave her a terse nod. Okay. Ill gratefully ept your tutge, then. How do we start?


    A demonstration, Lucy replied, lowering her stance. Her shoulders hunched and she took a step forward, swaying like one of the wheat reeds in the field surrounding them. It almost looked like she was stumbling instead of walking, but she crossed the distance between them with surprising speed, throwing her shoulder into Chances chest.


    He rolled with the blow, shooting up to his feet, watching in disbelief as Lucy essentially lurched and tripped around the clearing like a drunkard. Every move she made looked like an ident at first, but as she repeated them, Chance realized that they were deliberate.


    Wheat brushed against Chances back as he backed up, not letting Lucy get too close to him. She hadnt tried to attack him again, but he preferred a little distance to observe her movements before they fought any more.


    Another realization stuck Chance. The wheat around her wasnt moving at all. As Lucy stumbled and tripped around, her body twisted and bounded past every single stalk without so much as brushing them.


    His eyes widened. Ive read about this. Its drunken martial arts.


    Thats the basis, Lucy said,ing to a stop and straightening back up. And this will be the first thing you learn. The true form of this technique is far more than what you see here, but staring at the peak of the mountain too early will only cause you to trip on a pebble.


    Alright. Lets do it. Chance tried to copy the stance that Lucy had taken to start with. She walked over to him, adjusting the positioning of his legs with her foot.


    You need to flow, Lucy instructed. Every movement must lead into the other. Dont ovemit yourself to anything, and be light like the wind. Heels off the ground, stand on the balls of your feet. It doesnt have to be much, but just enough that you can move faster.


    Chance adjusted his weight and felt an almost instantaneous improvement in his posture and reaction speed. Lucy adjusted his arms and shoulders as well, then moved him into the next position.


    Over the course of the next several hours, Lucy walked in a circle around Chance, modifying every single move he made. What she had made look effortless turned out to be anything but.


    Hours stretched into, well, time. Chance had absolutely no idea how long they spent training the basic steps of the form. The sun hanging in the sky above them never moved an inch, and the rest of the world remained equally static.


    Even the wheat that he mistakenly crushed underfoot sprung back up as if hed never been there. It was as if nothing he did in this world had any influence on it. And, strangely, that same rule seemed to apply in the other direction as well.


    No matter how long they trained, Chance didnt get tired. He didnt get hungry or thirsty, and there was precious little to distract him. On the asions when his mind did drift, Lucy immediately smacked him on the back of the head, bringing him back into training without a word.


    At some point, the choppy movements started to grow smoother. They still werent anywhere near what Lucy could do, but Chance could feel himself shifting from one stance to another with only a little friction between each step.


    Good, Lucy said, stopping Chance midway through a move. He lowered his arms and straightened back up as she appraised him.


    Thats it?


    Youve barely even started, Lucy replied. But you understand the concept enough that youll be able to practice it in real once you leave this world. Thats all that matters. Now we can move onto the next step. Youre doing good so far. Keep it up.


    Chance nodded. Lucy showed him a series of new movements, though they didnt look all that different from what hed already done, he mirrored her anyway. After correcting a few mistakes, Lucy allowed him to continue.


    And so they trained. Time became a strange, foreign concept, and Lucy didnt give him a single break  not that he needed them. Every instant was spent training. Every time Chance grasped the basics of the specific movements she was training him on, Lucy transitioned into a new one.


    As their practice went on, she exined the purpose of certain steps and stumbles, with Chance as the punching bag. She showed him how to redirect an attackers force and how to keep his bnce when under attack.


    Aside from their initial conversation, Lucy didnt allow him to speak of anything other than training again. Every time he went to ask her a more general question, it was dismissed and she intensified the difficulty of their exercises until he couldnt concentrate on anything else.


    Even though injuries didnt seem to exist in this world, Chance could still feel pain. It just faded almost instantly, leaving him with nothing but its memory. That let Lucy show him every strike and blow exactly how they were meant to be, rather than held back to protect him.


    It wasntfortable, but it worked. At least, Chance felt like it did. It was hard to tell. Despite his growing, if basic, understanding of thebat style, once he conceptually understood how it worked, he stopped improving and Lucy moved on.


    Eventually, the endless training came to a pause. Lucy stopped Chance and gave him a slight nod.


    You have learned the physical movements that I need to teach you, Lucy said. Now we can begin working on the true manifestation of this style. If it fits you, you will be able to understand it. If not, then hopefully the lessons you have already learned will be of use.


    Chance nodded, his mind too focused on training to ask any more.


    You must incorporate your Essence into your movements. Not by physically moving Essence from your Gate into your body  that will probably kill you if you do it properly, and that would be a technique. This is not a technique, it is a fighting style. And, as such, your goal is to <em>embody </em>your Essence, not utilize it.


    You mean I have to fight in a way that fits Karma? Im not quite sure I understand, Chance admitted.


    Lucy lowered her stance again, a smile stretching across her lips. Not yet. But if you can, you will. Defend yourself.


    Then she attacked.

 Chapter 47: Perfect match

    Chapter 47: Perfect match


    Chance quickly discovered that, no matter how hypothetically well he understood the moves, it was nothing on Lucy. His body simply couldnt move as fast as hers, and that meant he spent the majority of his time either flying through the air or on the ground.


    Lucy didnt let up, even when he was thrown down. The sun continued to simmer overhead. The sparring turned to a blur, but if Lucy was doing anything new, Chance never discovered it. It just felt like she was fighting as she always had.


    She continued to press him, not even giving enough time for him to ask questions. Frustration built within Chance, his inability to improve gnawing at him more and more. He could see Lucy doing the very moves shed taught him, and he knew exactly what she was about to do  but he just wasnt fast or strong enough to do anything about it.


    He crushed the anger, refusing to let it take hold or affect him. Instead, he put every fiber of his being into trying to find a way to ovee Lucy. As always, he had no idea how long they had been fighting when an idea sprung to his mind  or rather, his hand.


    The urumi leapt forth for the first time since hed arrived in the field, and he found himself swinging it before he even realized what his hands were doing. Lucy responded instantly, stumbling out of the way and catching him on the chin with a iling palm.


    Chance rolled back, staggering to his feet and continuing the strike. The de whistled past Lucys nose, nearly catching her. It bought him just enough time to step in. He faked a stumble, redirecting his motion into a spinning kick.


    It caught nothing but air, but he continued the spin, tranting the motion into his urumi. Lucy leaned backward, dropping into an arch as his weapon passed over her. She then vaulted up, striking him in the chin with her foot.


    Chance rolled with the blow and flicked his urumi as he fell. Lucy let out a curse, but by the time he was standing again, the attack had passed. His weapon retracted, a tiny splotch of blood on one of the links.


    It faded away and he looked at Lucy in surprise.


    I hit you?


    So you did, Lucy said, rolling her shoulders.


    Does that mean I figured it out?


    Lucy pursed her lips. Im afraid not. You still dont have any Essence in your moves, but youve got a great conceptual understanding of this fighting style. Youve even managed to incorporate your weapon, but its still empty. How do you feel when fighting?


    Feel? Chance asked, lowering his de slightly. Im not sure. Like Im fighting. Im not certain I feel any way in particr. Were just training.


    I see. Im afraid I have nothing more to teach you, then. The style I developed does not fit you.


    What? Why? I feel like Im learning a lot.


    You are, Lucy said. But I am no longer able to guide you. Youve learned all the parts of my style that I can teach. Unfortunately, it doesnt look like youre a match. You have to discover what is missing and fill it in on your own.


    To make myself embody my Essence when Im fighting?


    Precisely. You will know when you have achieved it because fighting will be like cultivation. No matter what you are actually fighting against, your mind should be at peace. Once you have achieved that, then you have discovered your true fighting style. Only then will you begin to be able to begin along the road to a master.


    Chance bit back augh. Thats only the beginning?


    Of course, Lucy replied. After all, physicalbat is just one part of the whole. Theres also your aura, techniques, and cultivation abilities. A true master can weave them all together perfectly.


    I understand, Chance said. He bowed to Lucy. Thank you. Im not sure how long youve been training me, but Ive learned a lot.


    Lucy justughed. Its just my purpose. You have a truly impressive amount of willpower, though. I dont have much reference, but I didnt think you would havested as long as you did.


    Why?


    Permanent or not, constant injuries take a great toll on your mind. Lucy has to be at least a little annoyed, as she probably didnt think you would have leeched this much power from her.


    Wait, shes still powering this? Chance asked.


    As long as someone is in here, she has to give it Essence. Only when you leave will the passage of time resume. Dont fret, boy. You did well. Even though weve spoken little, our fists and feet have said all they need to. Youll develop your style, and I dont think itll be a long time waiting.


    Thank you. You were a fantastic teacher.


    Lucy snorted. Get out of here. Were done.


    Before thest word had even left her mouth, the field started to fall away. Thest thing Chance saw was the warm sun, its rays washing across the golden wheat like a lovers caress. Then it was gone, and the world was darkness.


    The dark stone alleys of Gleam emerged, putting themselves together at the edges of Chances vision like dozens of tiny puzzle pieces. A wave of dizziness washed over him and, when it passed, the world was whole once more.


    Lucy was gone, and he stood alone in the alley that shed left him in. Chance blinked, rubbing his eyes. A heavy fuzz filled his mind. Drawing in a slow breath, he felt a crisp breeze for the first time in what seemed like forever.


    His memories of the training with Lucy werent fuzzy, but they werepressed. It was as if theyd all happened years ago, but they rose up to the surface like an old skill. Even though it had been years since Chance hadst had the opportunity, it felt as natural as riding a bike.


    Chance slipped into one of the forms, letting himself stagger through the alley like a drunkard. The strain of the movements hit him almost immediately, and he quickly realized just how different the wheat field was from the real world.


    Without the ability to grow tired in it, hed never realized just how much work the movements took. Even though he knew what to do conceptually, he could tell it would take practice to be able to properly execute the movements with the level of control hed gained in the mindscape.


    Chance muttered another thank you to Lucy, just in case she was still somewhere in the area and could hear him, then made his way back to the Whiteheart house.


    Seeing Gleam again felt strange. Logically, he could tell that no time had passed. The new memories bouncing around in his head made everything feel just slightly out of ce. Before he knew it, Chance was standing at the doors to the Whiteheart house again.


    To his surprise, all three of the others were already downstairs, sitting on the couches. Pete and Be both had half-eaten sandwiches, and the front of Yeos shirt was covered with crumbs.


    Training going well, Chance? Yeo asked. Pete swung around to give us a break from practicing, but you were already gone when he checked your room.


    Yeah. Im feeling good about it, Chance replied. He wondered how he was supposed to exin his encounter with Lucy for a moment, but quickly realized that it had absolutely nothing to do with the Old City or Yamish, which meant he was free to say what he wanted. I had something of a fortuitous encounter.


    Whats that supposed to mean? Be asked.


    I met a Karma cultivator, and they trained me, Chance replied.


    To his surprise, none of them looked particrly surprised.


    I kinda figured you had someone teaching you, Yeo said,ughing at the expression on Chances face. I mean,e on. You were constantly leaving and growing at a crazy rate. That doesnt happen unless youre aplete genius or youve got someone helping out. What rank are they?


    Im not sure, Chance admitted. He didnt know how to rank either the Old City or Lucy. But whatever they are, I just got a pretty big boost.


    A Technique? Yeo asked eagerly.


    No. Just physicalbat training, Chance replied.


    Really? Thats odd, Be said. It takes a really long time to learn a fighting style, and your build looks about the same.


    Thats not true, Pete said. Hes put on some muscle, and Chance is carrying himself differently than how he used to. Im not sure how I managed to miss that before. Were you hiding it on purpose? Or have my eyes really started to fail me?


    No, youre fine. I learned all of it today, Chance replied. He quickly realized how that sounded and cleared his throat. My teacher sent me somewhere where time didnt flow and I kind of trained my mind, not my body.


    They stared at him mutely.


    What? Be asked, breaking the silence after several seconds. Youre serious?


    Yeah. I didnt gain any physical training from it, but the theory is all up here. He tapped his head.


    I hate you, Yeo dered. The worst part is I know you well enough to know you wouldnt lie about this, which means you actually managed to get lucky enough to stumble into something this rare. Does the universe just love you or something?


    Luck is kind of my thing, Chance said with a sheepish grin. But its not all sunshine. I owe thedy that taught me a favor if I survive long enough to pay it back, and I dont think itlle cheap.


    Petes eyes narrowed. A dangerous bargain, but one I would have taken as well. Not one I would have ever been offered, though. Yeo is right. Your luck is something else, Chance.


    Forget that, Be said, setting her sandwich aside and jumping to her feet. Can you show me? I want to see. If they taught you some secretbat style, maybe I can learn something if we spar.


    Sure. I need to get my body into shape to actually use this properly, so that sounds like a good idea to me.


    Only if I get to go next, Yeo said. Are you going to fight at the Shikari training grounds or on the frontwn?


    Lets use the training grounds, Chance said. Weve earned the right. Might as well use em until we have the money to spare getting an upgrade for the Whiteheart house.


    Ill join you, Pete said, his eyes sparkling. Something from a cultivator powerful enough to pause time anywhere is sure to be enlightening. Perhaps Ill be able to push through my bottleneck with what I pick up.

 Chapter 48: Bob and weave

    Chapter 48: Bob and weave


    Chance and Be stood across from each other in one of the many sectioned off arenas in the Shikari training ground. Yeo and Pete both stood just outside the drawn lines, watching them with keen eyes.


    Whenever youre ready, Be said, lowering into a fighting stance. Ice sprawled over her arms and wound into the ground, covering the dirt in a silvery sheen.


    Memories sprung to Chances mind as soon as he took a step forward, and he easily sank into a swaying, loose limbed resting pose. He could feel Yeo and Petes confused gazes burning into him as he took an unsteady step toward Be.


    Uh Chance? Be asked, blinking. Are you okay?


    He didnt respond  the fight was on, and it was taking more concentration than hed expected to make his body move the way his mind wanted it to. Even though he conceptually knew the moves, there was still a little dy in getting himself to do them.


    Chance staggered forward. He tripped over his own feet, catching himself at thest moment and driving a palm into Bes shoulder in an attempt to stabilize himself. She stumbled back, her eyes going wide as Chance slipped on the ice.


    His urumi whipped out, whistling past her nose as she barely managed to duck out of the way. Chances drunken stumble took him toward her again and understanding set in on her face. She darted forward, throwing a punch at his stomach.


    Chance took a small step to the side and slipped on the ice again. His foot came up as he fell, catching Be in the chin. Her head snapped back and Chance transferred his momentum into a roll. He came back up to his feet, snapping his urumi upward like a striking snake.


    Be blocked the attack with an icy fist. Tendrils of chill wrapped down the urumi and it gave off a loud scraping noise as her magic sunk into some of the links, restricting their motion. With a loud crack, the urumi retracted itself, snapping back into Chances hands.


    Surprise washed over Bes face again, but Chance didnt give her any time to speak. He lurched forward once more, throwing his entire body in her direction with his arms outstretched.


    Be stepped into him, aiming a strike toward his gut. Once more, Chance managed to fumble his way past the strike, this time interlocking one of his legs between hers. They both crashed to the ground, with Be taking the majority of the force from the fall.


    As soon as they hit, Chance was moving again, already stumbling away. Be threw herself forward, grabbing one of his legs before he could get away. Freezing energy wrapped up his body and his Gate lit up with a furious burning sensation.


    Be yanked him back toward her as she started to rise. Instead of resisting, Chance let her pull him, twisting to bring his knee up in the process. It connected with Bes face, but she didnt budge. It was like hed struck a brick wall.


    Unwilling to give up the advantage, Chance shed at her shoulder with his urumi. Ice bloomed from her back, forming a dome around Be and knocking the de away. It melted as quickly as it had arrived and she darted at him.


    Her crisp, intentional movements were a stark contrast to Chances drunken style. The two of them traded blows for several minutes. Not a single one of Chances attacks managed to damage Be again, but she was equally unable tond anything more than ncing blows on him.


    Unfortunately, the biggest drawback of the way hed learned his fighting style reared its head  Chance was exhausted. Hed never realized quite how difficult it was to toss his body around like a ragdoll, and it took a lot more muscle than he had.


    His movements started to slow down, and Bes attacksnded more and more. Before five minutes had passed, she managed to catch him in a tackle. She wrapped her arms around his neck before he could wiggle free.


    You win, Chance said, panting.


    Be released him and flopped back onto the ground. She let out a slow whistle as Yeo and Pete started to p. That was incredible. Ive never seen someone fight like that.


    Thanks. You beat me, though.


    Only because I used the technique Ive been practicing, Be replied. And if you hadnt run out of energy at the end, I think you probably would have had me. I couldnt have held that up for much longer. If wed been using any cultivation honestly, I think you might have won. For someone whos been practicing for just a few months, your rate of growth is incredible.


    Ill get you next time, then, Chance said, pushing himself upright and grinning. The chill of the ice on the ground surrounding them was now incredibly convenient, as it was doing a great job at cooling him down from the fight.


    <em>And its probably best not to go around severing any of Yeo or Bes karma, now that I think about it. Ill save that for people Im actually fighting.</em>


    Be is right, Pete said. Ive never seen someone fight like that, Chance, but it was truly quite impressive. I dont think that style would work well for my old bones, but I saw a few moves that looked very promising. Ill have to look into seeing if I can incorporate them in a way that fits my style.


    I cant use this stuff at all, but I get dibs on fighting you next, Yeo dered. I can tell your style is way too different from mine to work, but that looks really fun to fight against.


    Im looking forward to seeing how you perform in the tournament, Pete said. Id imagine that the unique nature of your style will give you a significant advantage in the early rounds.


    I suppose well see, Chance said. He sat up, brushing himself off. One thing was certain  he needed to find time to fit physical training into his regime.


    <em>Ill bet the apothecary has something that should help with soreness and muscle recovery. That should let me elerate my progress pretty significantly. </em>


    Should we head back, then? Be asked. She stood and held a hand out, pulling Chance to his feet.


    Sure, Yeo replied. You left some of your sandwich. Dibs.


    Be narrowed her eyes. No. Thats mine. Get your own.


    I already did. Ate it too. Thats why I want yours.


    Have you figured out that new technique youve been working on?


    Yeo glowered at her. No. Not yet. But Im almost there.


    Then you wont be able to stop me from wiping the floor with you, like I did thest few times we sparred. You better figure it out before the tournament.


    Oh, I will, Yeo promised, crossing his arms. And when I do, you better be ready for it. Ill be iming any unsupervised sandwiches that youre foolish enough to leave in my vicinity, whether you like it or not.


    Ive got one made for you as well, Pete said, putting a hand on Chances shoulder. Its safe from Yeo. Hes nowhere near being able to handle me, so you dont have to worry about it going missing.


    Yet, Yeo added. Just you wait.


    They allughed and left the training area, heading back to the Whiteheart house.


    ***


    Golden strands of karmic debt extended before Yamish like the strings of an enormous harp. His long fingers yed along them, sending faint tremors through their lines. He idly stared into the starry night sky above, enjoying the gentle breeze as it caressed his skin.


    The air around him was so thick with Essence that it would have forced its way into the body of any normal Cultivator, popping it like an overripe berry. For Yamish, it didnt even tickle anymore.


    Towering trees creaked around him, desperately trying to uproot themselves and move away from him. The threads of karmic energy hed attached to them prevented that, of course. It was difficult to find a world that he could tolerate for long, and its natural beauty was one of the greatest things about it.


    It had taken Yamish nearly a thousand years to set everything up just how he liked it. Under no circumstance would he allow even a single leaf of it to change without his permission  even if much of the world had gained sentience from the enormous amount of Essence surrounding him.


    And there, in the beautiful, crisp clearing, standing behind him, was an imperfection. Yamishs fingers stilled, and he lowered his hand, turning slowly toward it.


    A tiny pocket of churning golden energy enveloped a woman leaning against one of his trees. It had bent all the way down and rested nearly parallel to the ground to try to escape her, but Yamishs own bindings had kept it from moving any further.


    Nice ce youve got going here, the woman said, raising a wooden tankard in greeting. Havent seen something like it in a while. Real pristine.


    She took a long swig from it, then smacked her lips and let out a contented sigh. Her aura, while small, was intense. Golden energy enveloped her body in a thinyer, but it was so reinforced that Yamish that even he would have had some difficulty breaking through it.


    More importantly, a faint thread of Karma connected him to the woman. His eyes narrowed. She was a Karma cultivator, but he had very good record of everyone he interacted with  and she was not one of them.


    We have karma, Yamish said. Why?


    Oh, do we? the woman asked, cocking her head to the side. Thats weird. I didnt even notice. I was just kind of wandering around in this corner of the universe. I didnt stumble into something important, did I? Silly me.


    Yamish cocked his head to the side. You did not stumble into anything. You are led by karma.


    Bah. Youre one of the types that has no sense of humor, arent you? Boring. Dont you feel a bit melodramatic, ying with peoples lives like a musical instrument?


    If a job must be done, why not make it an art?


    Well, since youve been so kind as to bring it up, what kind of job are you doing? the woman asked, taking another swing from her tankard. The liquid within it burned with an aura that was nearly as powerful as she was, marking it as a magical artifact of some sort.


    Herding souls, Yamish replied. Why have youe here? Not even a fool would have attempted the journey, and an enemy would have died. You hold no ill will toward me, but do not assume that means I assume the same of you.


    Im just poking around a bit. A new karma cultivator popped up in one of the worlds. Barely felt his arrival, actually. He isnt too far from here. You notice him?


    No, Yamish replied. I do not have time to seek out every new cultivator that arrives.


    Interesting, the woman said. See, I thought he was weak. But, when I met him, hed already established fairly powerful karmic threads with some strong beings  including you. And, get this: I poked around a bit, and I realized his arrival had been suppressed.


    Yamishs expression didnt change. He reached up to the thread connecting him to the woman and pinched it. The golden energy withered and snapped with a twang. I have no karmic connection with a new arrival. I have no connections with anyone  not for long. It is possible one of my clones found interest in him, but it has not met back up with me, so I know nothing of this.


    Sure, sure. Just wanted to check to make sure you remembered that its against our ords to block off new arrivals from potential teachers. Thats some really big interfering.


    I am not beholden to your rules, Yamish said tly. I do not see why my clone would have any interest in the arrival of a child. I seek enlightenment, not a mortal.


    Just wanted to check, the woman said with a shrug. She turned, gathering energy to leave.


    What world was the boy on? Yamish asked.


    The woman nced back at him. Figure it out yourself, chucklehead.


    With a pop, she vanished. A flicker of curiosity danced through Yamish. What exactly had his clone stumbled into? Perhaps it was time to rendezvous. But, first, he had a far more important task to deal with. The boy could wait.

 Chapter 49: It begins

    Chapter 49: It begins


    Lucy flopped down on a straw chair and let out a long suffering sigh. She looked up at the dingy, stone ceiling above her, then grimaced at the bristly straw digging into her butt and back. She shifted around, trying to find a morefortable spot and failing miserably.


    Remind me why we have to live in the worlds ugliest and most ufortable hovel? Lucyined, reaching for her mug.


    It wasnt there. She pressed her lips together. It was never with her when she came home. For that reason alone, she would have done everything in her power toe back  if it werent for one small detail, that is.


    Because humility is a valuable trait that has been lost to most cultivators, a kindly voice replied.


    A young man walked out from behind her, his blonde hair glistening in the dim light. His eyes were a brilliant blue and he wore in cloth robes that would have looked like rags on anyone else, but somehow managed to look fit for a king on his body.


    The straw covering the ground shifted and rose up, forming a smooth chair beneath him as he sat across from Lucy.


    Could my chairs at least be asfortable as yours? I know for a fact you arent getting poked in the ass by yours.


    Youck respect for the world, the main replied with an easygoingugh. Soon, Lucy. You arent too far, now. Maybe a few hundred more years, if you continue as you have been.


    Lucy grunted. Sure thing, Rilu. How about giving me my mug back, then?


    Absolutely not. Your liver might be immortal for all intents and purposes, but that doesnt mean you shouldnt give it the respect it deserves. Your body is part of the world. You should treat it better.


    Bah. Dont push your crap on everyone else, Lucy said, rolling her eyes. This is why everyone hates you.


    As far as I am aware, the only person that hates me is you. But, I suppose that is to be expected from a student. It is difficult to raise someone to be a powerful cultivator without building up a little bit of resentment. Was it the time I suspended you above the sea ofva?


    We are not ying therapist today, Lucy said, crossing her arms. The movement caused her chair to prick her hard, and she cursed, swatting it. You know why Im here.


    I do, Rilu admitted. How did it go?


    At first, I thought you were full of it, Lucy said, rubbing her forehead. The boys arrival was so faint that it really did feel like he wouldnt be of any real importance.


    Everyone is of importance.


    Oh, shut it. You know what I meant. Lucy waved a hand dismissively and red at Rilu. But the boy  hes already a Rank Two, and on his way to reaching Three. He actually managed to learn my old fighting style as well, even though it didnt fit him perfectly.


    I dont care about any of that, Rilu said. What of his personality? What kind of person is he?


    Kind. Nave and desperate to keep others from learning too much about him, but kind. Hes also a terrible liar.


    Rilu nodded thoughtfully. This is good. Were you the first to reach him? I would not imagine so, as the seal ced on Centurion means another cultivator had already been meddling.


    I wasnt. I made the boy think I had no idea to avoid stressing him, but hes wrapped up with a very powerful cultivator. Yamish.


    Yamish is involved? Rilus eyes widened and he leaned forward in his chair. You jest.


    Dead serious, you sober prick. And I think hes more than just involved. The kids got a thick thread of Karma between him and Yamishs clone.


    I never thought Id see the day, Rilu said, shaking his head in disbelief and leaning back. This is an omen indeed.


    A good one or a bad one?


    Of that, I am unsure. Yamish is one of the few cultivators in this portion of the universe that I am loathe to deal with. He is unpredictable and it has been hundreds of years since I havest seen him fight, so his strength is unknown to me.


    Despite herself, Lucy felt a tiny trickle of worry for Chance. Her hands tightened around the straw of the chair. Is the boy in danger?


    Life is danger, Rilu replied. Yamishs pursuit of power is odd, considering the method in which he cultivates Karma. And, worse, he is a schemer. I cannot match up to him in the department of the mind.


    You couldnt match up to a hamster there either, you philosophical brat, Lucy muttered. What should we do?


    Do? Nothing. The universe is ever in motion, and it is not our ce to interfere any further.


    Isnt the boy in danger? Yamish wouldnt do something selflessly.


    He would not, Rilu agreed. However, Yamish would have very little to gain from killing a fledgling cultivator, and the Karma he would reap for killing something so much weaker than him would be very significant. For a man who has been incredibly careful to maintain a perfect karmic bnce, that does not strike me as something he would do.


    What is he doing, then? Lucy asked. You cant actually be implying that <em>Yamish </em>has decided to take on a student. When has he ever cared in the slightest for anyone other than himself?


    Never. But there is always time to start.


    Lucy pierced Rilu with a withering re. He returned it with a small smile and half a shrug.


    For now, we will watch. If Yamish truly ns to kill a child, it may be grounds for us to intervene. I do not believe my Essence would permit me to stand aside. But, until we know Yamish is not just attempting to teach a young cultivator, we do nothing.


    Thats it? Nothing?


    Nothing.


    ***


    The week leading up to the tournament passed quickly. Chance and his team spent most of it training with everything they had  which, for Chance, mostly meant focusing on physical practice so he could hold up his fighting style for as long as possible.


    Be and Yeo both mostly focused on cultivation, keeping to themselves for most of the week. Before any of them knew it, the day was upon them. Pete gathered them all early in the morning and led them through the streets of Gleam, down through Main za Road and onto arge street that Chance hadnt had a chance to use yet.


    As usual, arge and diverse crowd joined them in their path. In the horizon, floating above them, was one of the inds that floated above Gleam. Atop it was an enormous colosseum, much like the one in Rome back on earth.


    The towering circr building rose far into the sky, almost like a tower. Chance couldnt recall any of the inds ever being so close to the ground, so it must have lowered for the tournament.


    A glimmering golden pathway extended from the front of the colosseum and alighted on the side of the road, in arge space between buildings that had clearly been prepared for this. A steady crowd of people were heading up the path, though it wasnt nearly as crowded as the main road.


    With Pete at the lead, they pushed through the crowd and up to the pathway. Chance put a foot on the golden bridge, surprised to find that it felt just like standing on the ground.


    What? You expected it to be squishy or something? Be asked, noticing the look on his face. I suppose I could see where that woulde from, but Gleams inds are all part of some huge magical artifact.


    The Golden Bridge, Pete provided as they continued up toward the colosseum, unable to stop without causing a huge traffic jam. Its what keeps the inds in the air above Gleam and connects everything with Essence. It also powers Gleams defenses. Without it, the city wouldnt be nearly as sessful as it is now.


    Wow, Chance said. How much Essence does it take to keep so many things running? That seems like a really powerful artifact, but I dont really have much reference for how strong artifacts are.


    Nobody does, Pete said. They range, and most of them are naturally urring. Theyre usually objects that have been around arge concentration of Essence for a long period of time. That awakens them, granting the objects powers. Eventually, they can even grow personalities. Thats pretty rare, though.


    Chance nearly mentioned the Old City, but he kept his mouth shut. If Pete and his friends were dragged into his possible confrontation with Yamish, hed never forgive himself.


    Dont look so worried, Yeo said, pping Chance on the shoulder. Artifacts dont matter right now. We arent going to see anything that powerful until we either leave the city or get really, really rich.


    I doubt its the artifact hes thinking about, Be said. Dont fret over the tournament either, Chance. In the long run, it doesnt matter.


    Scratch that, Yeo said. Were going for the top. No losing allowed.


    Be red at him. That is not reassuring.


    Chance doesnt need reassuring, Yeo replied. Hes got that new fighting style and can hold his own against both of us. Were going to do fantastic  and Im going to win.


    Keep telling yourself that, Be said, shaking her head.


    They reached the top of the golden pathway and walked through a several story tall archway. The foot traffic split off into two directions, with the majority of the people heading off to the right.


    Several attendants stood along the entrance of the colosseum, directing everyone that passed by them. They wore sharp blue suits trimmed with gold and had badges with an embossing of Gleams skyline on them pinned to theirpels. As Chances group grew closer to the split, a woman nodded to them.


    Participants?


    These three are, Pete replied. Im just watching.


    Kids to the left, youre to the right, the woman said.


    Good luck. Ill be cheering you all on, Pete said, raising a hand and heading off with the majority of the crowd.


    Thanks! Chance called after him as they split off to follow the womans directions. They headed down a stairwell and through a long hallway. More Gleam employees stood along the doors, motioning thepetitors on.


    They passed dozens of doors until an employee caught their attention and gestured to an open room.


    You three are a group right? In here. Youll find some numbers in the room. Press your thumb into the button beneath them to choose one. When that number is called, thats when youll be going up.


    Understood, Be said.


    They headed inside and the man closed the door behind them. The room had four chairs lined up before a long window that provided a good view into therge arena floor just outside. It was just elevated enough to let them see everything that was happening without risking getting hit by any crossfire.


    Like the employee had said, there were four metal tes along the wall, numbered ny-two through ny-five. Each te had a small embossing beneath the numbers. Without hesitation, Yeo strode up to ny-two and pressed his thumb into the hole. He yanked it back with a curse, revealing a tiny droplet of blood where it had been.


    Little thing poked me, Yeo said, ring at it.


    Its probably how they know someones here, Be said. You care which number you get, Chance?


    Nah. Theyre all the same.


    Chance took ny-three, and Be took ny-four. They all nced around the room, but nobody had given them any more instructions, so they just sat down in their chairs to wait. Chance fidgeted in his chair, but not for the reasons Be and Yeo probably suspected.


    Sure, he wanted to win the tournament. But it wasnt for the fame or feeling of sess anymore  he needed the money. It was the only way to get stronger fast enough to have even an inkling of a chance against whatever Yamish or the Old City might throw at him. The others were fighting for a rank, but he might very well have been fighting for his life.

 Chapter 50: The first fight

    Chapter 50: The first fight


    Over the course of the next hour or so, Chance watched the crowd grow in the stands across from them. He couldnt see the entire thing since about half of them were probably somewhere above him, but a little over a quarter of the seats looked to be full.


    That didnt sound like much, but with the size of the colosseum, that was probably several thousand people. He wasnt particrly surprised that the turnout wasnt higher  people probably found more entertainment attending the tournaments for higher level Shikari.


    Still, even with only a fourth of the arena full, Chance could feel the buzz of adrenaline pumping in his veins. Hed never really gotten much of a chance topete with anyone in a meaningful way before  the first, preliminary tournament notwithstanding. This time, he wasnt going to get disqualified.


    Ready? Yeo asked, rubbing his hands together. I cant wait. This is my debut.


    Why are you treating this like its a poprity contest? Be asked. Its apetition. Youre about to do your best to beat the life out of somebody. You might be a little too excited for it.


    Bah. This is all a performance, Yeo replied. If you win every fight but nobody likes you, it doesnt matter. In the end, the coolest fighter is the true winner. Getting first ce sure helps, though.


    A small metal disk ringed by a flowing fence lowered from the sky, suspended in a golden cloud. Within it, Chance could just barely make out a woman with long, white hair. She was too far away to make out any details on her face or appearance beyond that.


    Wee to the quarterly tournament for Squire ranked Shikari! the woman called, her voice echoing through the entire arena  clearly empowered by some sort of magic. Im sure all the contestants are absolutely thrilled to have you here. As always, weve got a lot of promising talent looking to prove themselves. Make sure to keep a keen eye out.


    The tform raised, moving her in a slow circle around the crowd as she continued to address them. Shadows passed over the arena, but the angle of the window prevented Chance from seeing what had happened.


    It was evidently intentional, as arge spotlight shimmered to life, highlighting the woman as she flew back to the middle of the ring.


    My name is Analise, and Ill be your announcer today. Well be getting started very shortly  but first, a word from our sponsor. Dayeds Raid Shop has kindly provided funding for all the healing pills and emergency devices that may be used during this tournament to ensure that none of our talented trainees are injured seriously. If you like raiding outside of Gleam, make sure to check out his shop. Hes got some great deals. Just use our promotional code, Gleam-Official. Thats one word,dies and gents.


    Chance gave Yeo a side eye. Seriously? Theyve got ads?


    After every fight, ording to my dad, Yeo replied, not taking his eyes off Analise. He said they were supposed to be a bit of a problem back on Earth.


    Thats an understatement. Wait, did you say <em>every </em>fight?


    Now, it looks like the doors to the colosseum have been shut, Analise continued. That means its time to get started.


    The golden lights flicked off her and lit up the arena, illuminating the painted stone ground with a gentle glow that wouldnt blind the fighters but would enable the crowd to see what was happening.


    Number One and Eighteen, pleasee out onto the stage! The window at the front of your room will slide open and a pathway will form for you. Make sure to watch your step. We dont want any premature injuries, after all. Those should be saved for the actual fight.


    Analise tittered as if shed just said an incredibly witty joke. Chances nose wrinkled slightly in distaste.


    Just as she had said, two golden paths appeared at the base of the arena, building themselves up to rooms that were out of Chances field of view. Twopetitors descended the pathways to the arena below.


    A gold line traced through the air above the arena, drawing out an enormous cube. Colors bloomed through it like a paintbrush dipped into water, and the scene in the arena came into view on all the sides of the cube.


    Magnified, Chance could now see thepetitors. They were both girls, and looked a little younger than he was. There wasnt anything particrly eye-catching about either of them. Both carried a sword and looked nervous, their eyes shifting about the arena.


    Thats a little closer up than I thought this would be, Be said. We can basically see everything theyre thinking.


    I still cant believe youve been in Gleam this long and still havent gone to a tournament. I would have gone to the first one I could, Yeo said, shaking his head.


    Even if I wanted to, I couldnt. Dont forget that I technically wasnt even ranked as a Squire yet. My only power came from the water Vex gave me. Be crossed her arms and looked down at the arena.


    In the sky above it, Analise raised her hands into the air. The screens shifted to show her face, which was far younger than Chance had thought. She was probably in her early thirties, but that really didnt mean much in a world like Centurion. She could have been hundreds of hears old.


    Alright. Lets get this started! Eighteen, One, I wish you an enjoyable fight! This battle is until your opponent either surrenders or is unable to continue fighting. Remember, feel free to go all out  just avoid any killing blows. Your opponent needs to be alive to get healed, and any attacks that are made on an opponent unable to defend themselves will result in an immediate disqualification. Now, lets get to it!


    The screen redrew itself into the arena, and the two girls dashed at each other. Chance watched them fight for a few moments, but his heart wasnt in it, and he quickly found himself distracted and lost in thought.


    It probably would have been wise to study his potential opponents abilities, but his nerves were so taut that he could barely focus on what the smart move was. He drew a deep breath and let it out slowly, using one of the calming techniques his father had taught him back on Earth.


    Chance enveloped himself in an imaginary golden circle, taking sce in the fact that, within his domain, everything was as he wanted it to be. He rxed in his chair, slipping into a state that was between meditation and simply sitting. Even if it was just a trick in the mind, it immediately helped some of the stress leave his body.


    He didnt know how much time passed, but he snapped out of it as Yeo put a hand on his shoulder. Chance blinked and nced around.


    Youre up! Yeo said, pulling Chance to his feet. Get moving!


    What? Seriously? Chance nced at the window, where a golden path was already forming down to the arena below.


    I think you fell asleep, Be said with augh. Youve got this, Chance. Good luck!


    Chance cursed under his breath and hopped onto the golden bridge. He headed down, still half expecting it to squish or give beneath his feet. Luckily, it remained solid the whole way. He hopped to the stone, rolling his shoulders to warm them up.


    Tingles of anticipation arced through his legs and arms. He shook his head, extending a hand. His bracelet leapt into it, transforming into an urumi along the way. On the other side of the arena, arge boy stepped down from his own path.


    He wore a metal breastte and bore lighter armor on his arms and legs. The boy grabbed arge axe that was slung over his shoulder and brought it to bear before him. He inclined his head slightly to Chance, who returned the gesture.


    Lets get this on with! Analise called. Number Ny-three versus One Hundred and Fifty Two! We all know the rules. Get to fighting!


    Therger boy pitched into a charge, and the head of his axe glimmered with Essence. Chance shifted his weight to the balls of his feet and swayed, waiting for the charge instead of rushing to meet it.


    He wasnt sure what kind of Essence his opponent was using, but it wasnt hard to deduce that getting hit by his axe would be bad news. Chance staggered forward just as the other boy reached him, twisting his body.


    The axe whistled past him and mmed into the sand, missing Chance as he shoved his shoulder into the other boys chest, then stuck his leg between his feet. Even though his opponent was significantlyrger than him, Chance didnt need strength to push him over. He just needed leverage.


    As the boy shoved Chance back, he transferred the weight to his other leg and swept his opponents legs out from under him. The boy crashed to the ground with a grunt, but quickly rolled to the side.


    He grabbed his axe and lunged for Chance, who swayed out of the way and brought the hilt of his urumi down on his head as he passed. The boy grunted, hitting the ground anding up in a roll instead of dropping like Chance had expected.


    <em>Hes sturdier than he should be. It must be something to do with his Essence, or maybe his aura is just really strong. </em>


    Chance narrowed his eyes and flicked his urumi, shifting the offensive. It whipped out, screeching as it scraped across his opponents armor but failed to bite through it. As Chance drew the de back, the boy charged him again.


    He met the dash headlong, leaning out of the way of a sh and using all of his bodyweight to m into the other boys shoulder. The metal of his breastte stung to hit, but the sudden redirection of motion threw him to the ground like a sack of potatoes.


    As he fell, Chances knee caught him in the head. The boy hit the ground with a crash, but the axe didnt leave his hands. Chance flicked his urumi and the de coiled around his opponents armored arm, constricting with a loud screech.


    Surrender, Chance said, driving a foot down into his opponents chest and mming him back into the ground as he tried to rise. He pulled on the urumi, tightening the razor-sharp links around the creaking armor.


    I give, the boy spat, letting the axe fall from his hand. Chance flicked his wrist and the urumi unraveled, snapping back to its de form before reforming into a wristband. Chance offered his fallen opponent a hand, but the boy pushed himself upright on his own.


    Number Ny-three takes the win! Analise called. And now, a quick word from our sponsors before the next two fighters join us on stage.


    Chance mentally tuned her out. Golden pathways arched down, arriving on either side of the arena. Once theyd formed, Chance headed back up to where Yeo and Be were waiting.


    That was fantastic! Yeo eximed. You made that other guy look like aplete klutz.


    It was impressive, Be agreed. He didnt evennd a single blow on you.


    Well, this was just the first round, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. Im sure future opponents are going to be a lot stronger. Thank you, though.


    The golden bridge disappeared behind him, and the window slid back shut. Chance flopped down into his chair, his heart still beating fast, and repressed a grin. Now that the fight was over, he realized that it had actually been fairly fun. He was actually looking forward to the next one.

 Chapter 51: Natural

    Chapter 51: Natural


    Several more fights passed, but Chance didnt watch any of them any more than sending cursory nces to the fighters whenever someone used a particrly shy ability or technique. It wasnt that he was uninterested  his thoughts were just bound up elsewhere.


    Be was the next among them to be called, much to Yeos disappointment. Her fight was one of the fastest thus far. As soon as it had started, the boy fighting Be charged her. She clocked him in the chin with an ice-infused punch, and that was that.


    Yeo howled withughter during her entire trip back up the golden path, and while Chance couldnt help but feel bad for the boy shed crushed, he was still thrilled shed won.


    The next few fights were equally uninteresting, as was Yeos first performance. Hed gone out, practically shaking in excitement, and summarily crushed his opponent just as easily as Be had.


    He looked almost disappointed as he headed back up to join them. Nearly half an hour passed before Chances number was called again. Yeo and Be wished him luck as he hopped out of the window and onto the golden path, heading down to the arena again.


    This time, his opponent was a girl with long ck hair. She held a bow and had a dagger sheathed at her side. They exchanged a nod as the announcer started to advertise yet another shop. Chance tuned her out, just waiting for the instruction to start. His urumi leapt to his hand, its hiltforting despite the jagged leather wrapping.


    begin! Analise called.


    Chances mind was almost nk as he slipped forward, his urumishing out as he leaned back, letting an arrow made of shimmering green energy sail past his nose harmlessly. He came back up, tripping and stumbling his way toward the girl and forcing her back with every flick of his urumi.


    Her face, which had originally been confident, quickly turned worried. As the fight continued, Chance felt the rhythm of his moves start to take over more of his attention. He didnt fall into a trance, but it felt as if his body was almost acting of its own ord.


    But  something was missing. His moves felt empty. Chance was certain he was making the exact motions that Lucy had, but they still didnt feel right. On her, they were smooth. Now, they felt like the ir was missing.


    He tweaked a motion, springing upright to avoid a shot instead of stumbling out of the way. If his opponent reacted, he didnt notice. She was a distant thought now, simply a method to training.


    The new move didnt feel quite right either, but it was better than the alternative. He changed another step, moving more naturally and spinning in a wide circle, twirling his urumi around him like he was trying to turn into a tornado.


    That one felt better, but it still wasnt there. Something was missing. Irritation built in Chance as he pressed harder, modifying his movements and searching to see what was missing. Then, abruptly, reality snapped back.


    Chance mmed the hilt of his urumi down on the girls hand, knocking the dagger that he hadnt even realized shed drawn from her grip. She staggered, tripping over her own feet and falling to the ground his de continued, thunking into the ground just beside her neck.


    I surrender! she eximed, her eyes wide as she scrambled away from him. Chance retracted his urumi, baffled.


    <em>When did the fight end?</em>


    Analise was talking something again, but Chance barely heard her words. A cultivator hopped down to the tform, handing both of them healing pills. Chance epted his with an appreciative nod and popped it into his mouth, even though hed barely been hurt. He waited until the golden bridge had reformed before heading back up to his room with Be and Yeo.


    What was that, Chance? Yeo asked, grabbing him by the shoulders once hed stepped through the window. You were just ying with her!


    I didnt mean to. I just zoned out a little. While I was fighting, I felt like there was something wrong with my technique, so I was trying to figure out what it was. Honestly, I thought I was getting kind of close, but then the fight ended.


    You were trying to improve your fighting style while you fought? Yeo whistled. Thats bold. Even I dont have anything that cool nned. Damn, now I feel like I need to modify my strategy. If people find out thats what youre doing, youre going to look way cooler than me.


    Hes still stumbling around like he got drunk before the fight, Be reminded Yeo. I dont think Chance is going to get too many drooling admirers for that particr moveset.


    Be is right, Chance said. I look like a doofus. It works, though.


    That it does, Be agreed.


    Chance sat down, still running through the fight in his head to determine what he wascking. Be and Yeo must have picked up on his mood, because neither of them bothered him. They both fought again, each making it through to the next round of thepetition. Chance paused his thoughts long enough to watch their fights. Both of them won, though it looked to take them considerably more effort the second time than the first.


    Before long, Chances name was called again. He would have missed it had Yeo not prodded him in the back and nodded toward the open window. Be gave him a worried nce as he started down, to which Chance returned what he hoped was a reassuring grin.


    The desire to figure out what was holding him back was almostpulsive now, but the start of the fight was enough to bring him back down to earth. His opponent was a thin, bald boy. He didnt carry any weapons, but the wrappings around his fists implied he knew hand-to-handbat.


    Ive watched your fights, the boy said, raising a hand in greeting. Im Jericho. Your style is really interesting, but things end here for you.


    Hi. Im Chance.


    Thats it?


    Yup. Im a little busy right now.


    Jericho gave Chance a baffled look. He shook his head, muttering under his breath as he lowered into a fighting stance and extended an open palm toward Chance.


    Ny-three versus twenty-seven! Lets get this moving. Begin! Analise crowed.


    Jericho exploded into motion, thrusting his palm toward Chances chest. Chance shifted his weight, snapping his wrist up and sending his urumi flying toward the other boy. To his surprise, instead of trying to dodge, Jericho knocked the de away with his free hand.


    He drove his palm into Chances chest, knocking the air from his lungs. Chance rolled with the blow and rose back to his feet, dipping out of the way of another blow and striking Jericho in the shoulder with the hilt of his urumi.


    Jericho winced at the blow and tried to hit Chances ear with an open hand. His blow sailed wide as Chance fell back,nding on his hands and snapping a leg up into Jerichos chin as he vaulted back to his feet.


    They both threw themselves into the battle. As they fought, once more, Chance found himself forgetting about Jericho and focusing entirely on his own motions and that niggling feeling that something was missing.


    With every sh, every blow dodged and attack thrown, he made more changes to his style. It was still the same, but it was growing closer to what he felt like it could be. His staggering movements remained, but they were interspersed with sudden jumps and abrupt freezes that made him even harder to predict.


    Sweat trickled down Jerichos face as Chances assault intensified on him. He desperately tried to match Chances chaotic attacks, but the urumi spinning around them in addition to his haphazard movement was too much.


    A fist slipped through the boys defenses, cracking his nose and sending blood sttering across his face. He staggered back, catching himself quickly  but not quickly enough. Chances foot came up and Jericho shifted his hands to block the blow, only to find that Chance had abandoned the move and was already throwing an elbow at his head.


    The strike connected, and the urumi scored across his chest an instantter as Chance danced back before he could retaliate. By now, Jericho was covered in dozens of weeping cuts, and all hed managed tond on chance were a few bruising blows.


    Jericho lunged for Chance in a final, desperate attempt to sway the battle in his favor. He ducked under a iling arm, but the hilt of Chances urumi caught him in the temple. He went limp midflight, crumpling to the ground behind Chance like a ragdoll.


    Ny-three wins! Analises voice boomed through the air. A cultivator jumped down,nding on the tform and pushing a pill into Jerichos mouth. The boys wounds quickly sealed up and faded, and the cultivator offered another one of the pills to Chance.


    He stared at the mans hand for a moment before he brought himself back into the real world, taking the pill and tossing it into his mouth. Jericho hadnt done much damage, but there was no point inconveniencing himself before the next fight.


    Thank you.


    No problem, the man replied, slinging Jericho over his back. Golden pathways descended leading back to their rooms, and Chance walked up his, his mind still churning with thoughts.


    <em>Im so close. I can feel it. What am I missing?</em>


    Im convinced of it now, Yeo said once Chance had returned to his seat. You were holding back on us. Ive never seen you fight like that.


    Its natural, Chance said, digging for the right words. But its still wrong. I cant tell what it is, but Imcking something key.


    Maybe its just experience? Be offered. Youre doing incredible. Ive never seen someone with your level of experience fight the way you do. You havent even used any of your actual Karma powers. Youre just blowing through people with the urumi and your fighting style.


    Chance blinked. Somehow, hedpletely forgotten to interweave his Essence abilities with his physical ones.


    <em>Is that it? Maybe its empty because I haventbined it with my Essence. Ill try tossing some abilities in there next time and see how that feels.</em>


    I still cant believe youre using a tournament to train, Yeo muttered, running a hand through his hair. I mean, weve all been practicing really hard, but even Be and I are struggling a bit to stay in the running. Sure, I havent showed off my new secret ability, but youve got stuff in the bag too.


    Im sorry, Chance said sheepishly. It just feels right.


    Yeo grunted. Sure it does. Earthling my ass. You were made for this.


    They all fell silent as the next fight started. They all fought several more times, but Chances advancements had started to slow. He still felt like he was improving, but not at the rate he had been at the start of the tournament. A few fights after hed gone, as Chance sat contemting what he was doing wrong, Be was called down once more. Her opponent was a woman that used fire Essence, which looked like a perfect counter for the girls abilities.


    Despite Bes disadvantage, she held her own well. Her icy armor protected her body from the heat, and she was able to trade blow for blow with her opponent. However, as the fight went on, it became clear that she was starting to lose.


    Both Chance and Yeo sat at the edges of their seats. Be narrowly avoided a gout of me that scored over her head and, seeing a brief window of opportunity, lunged at the other girl.


    Her opponent grinned, revealing a de that had been hidden in her other hand. She thrust it at Bes chest  and it shattered. Bes fist caught the other girl hard in the chin, and her eyes blinked out like snuffed candles as she copsed.


    Thats the skill she used against me! Chance eximed.


    Her strongest ability right now, Yeo said. I dont get how it works. She wont tell me, but Ive never been able to break through it when shes really been trying to keep it up. Its not aura, though. I asked Pete.


    Be let out a heavy breath and straightened up, epting her healing pill and heading up the golden bridge to rejoin them.


    Great job, Be, Chance said. That was a really close fight. You earned that win.


    You were watching? Be asked, raising her eyebrows. I thought youd still be zoned out. Thanks, though.


    I took a break from zoning out, Chance replied with a grin. How are you feeling?


    Like that was probably thest fight Im going to win in this tournament without doing something I dont want to, Be replied, flopping into her chair. Im happy with it, though. And, who knows. Maybe Ill pull off something interesting in the next round. Weve got to be getting close to the finals now.


    Dont they tell us? Chance asked.


    Nah, not for smaller tournaments like this. They arent really important enough. It just kind of goes until theres a victor, Be replied. But there couldnt have been all that many Squire Shikari in the area, even with Gleam being asrge as it is. Were probably in thest few rounds.


    Ny-two versus Three! Analise called.


    My turn! Yeo leapt to his feet and vaulted out of the window onto the golden bridge forming beneath it.


    Be frowned slightly. Wait. Three?


    What about three? Chance asked.


    Yeos opponent slid down to the ground, his heavy armor nking. The noise was amplified through the floating screens, making it echo through the colosseum. Jake looked up at them from the arena, raising an armored fist to point at Yeo as he descended.


    Oh, Chance said.

 Chapter 52: Metal Dragon Art

    Chapter 52: Metal Dragon Art


    Yeonded across the arena from Jake. If he was perturbed by having to go up against the other boy, he showed no signs of it. He just raised his hands, egging on the crowd as he turned in a slow circle before he returned to face Jake, drawing his kusarigama from its ce at his side.


    Jake tapped the butt of his hammer against the ground, unwilling to make any more movement than necessary. If anything, he looked bored.


    For what its worth, I dont get any sick sense of pleasure out of doing this, Jake said. You could have been so much more. Instead, you chose to be a disappointment. Just remember that.


    Shut up, Yeo replied. This is who I am.


    People change, Yeo, Jake replied, grabbing his hammer with both hands and hoisting it into the air. And, to quell your curiosity before it starts, there was a special request for me to go against you. This isnt some freak coincidence.


    Yeo faltered, his confident expression flickering for just an instant before he stered it back across his face. All the better, then. Theres more than one way to the Essence of Metal, and Ill prove it.


    There are other ways, Jake agreed. But not yours.


    It looks like these two fighters have some personal history! Analise called, interrupting them. That should make this fight all the more interesting. Lets get to it without any further dys, then. Begin!


    Metal Dragon Art: Twin Heads! Links of metal erupted from within Yeos bag, trailing up his kusarigama and splitting off into a second one. Jake shook his head in disgust as the other boy pulled the two weapons apart, spinning them on either side.


    So damn shy. So pointless, Jake spat, twirling his hammer above his head. Come on, then. I want this over with. It makes me sick.


    Yeo charged, his kusarigama whistling in the air around him. He leapt as he grew close to Jake and whipped his Kusarigama forward, scoring their des across the other boys armor. They screeched as they ran along the metal, but the strike did little more than scratch Jakes defenses.


    Jake extended a hand, thrusting it into the path of the spinning chains. One of Yeos weapons snapped around his hand, entangled. He yanked, pulling Yeo off bnce and driving his fist into his face.


    Yeo rolled with the blow, flicking his weapon to free it from Jakes body as he came back up. Blood trickled down his nose, but it didnt look like hed even noticed. He unleashed a flurry of rapidfire blows against Jake, each one leaving a new scar on the other boys armor.


    Still, not a single one of them got through. In retaliation, Jake took precise, calcted strikes, only moving when he needed to. If Yeo was a determined termite, Jake was a mighty tree.


    A hammer blow caught Yeo in the chest, throwing him across the ground and knocking one of the kusarigama from his hands. He staggered to his feet, clutching his side as he rose, then gritted his teeth.


    The kusarigama flew back into his hand, and he spun them both to get momentum back before charging Jake again. The other boy reared back, allowing Yeo to strike him several times before his hammer shed.


    Yeo managed to avoid the blow, but Jake spun and unleased a second one, nearly catching him in the head. The nimble boy managed to lean back, but Jake followed the motion and clipped him in the arm with the continued attack.


    The force of the blow tossed Yeo again. This time, Jake stamped on the kusarigamas chain as it rattled through the air, mming it to the ground. Yeo jerked to a halt on the ground, refusing to release his grip on the weapon.


    Learn already! Jake brought his hammer down on the chain, shattering it. This damn obsession is why father gave up on you, Yeo. Give. It. Up.


    Yeo staggered to his feet, one of his arms hanging out of socket. He grabbed it and shoved back into its ce with a pop, not breaking eye contact the entire time.


    Helle around.


    No, Yeo. He wont, Jake replied, grinding the chain beneath his metal-d boot. Youre a failure. He gave you everything he could afford to be a powerful cultivator. You chose to be <em>this </em>instead. Look at yourself.


    I followed my Essence, Yeo snarled.


    You followed a delusion. Thats why Father gave up on you. Youre a failed cultivator and a failed son. Imagine what I could have done if I had half of what Father gave you. Luckily, my talent makes up for your shorings. He still got the cultivator he always wanted, and I got left to pick up the scraps that you left behind.


    You dont understand what youre talking about. Yeo spun his kusarigama and charged Jake. And he hasnt abandoned me. Im just seeking my own path for a little.


    The other boy swung his hammer and Yeo vaulted, stepping off of it and flipping over Jakes head. He hooked his kusarigama beneath Jakes helmet and yanked, ripping it off and throwing it to the sand.


    Hended, spinning to capitalize on the attack, but a blur of metal shed through the air, carving a line of blood across Yeos head as he threw himself back at thest second. Yeo scrambled across the ground and back to his feet as Jake turned to face him.


    The head of Jakes hammer had split to reveal a long, jagged point that had been nestled within it. Faint glimmers of light ran along the hilt of the weapon, curling around Jakes hands and hissing as it touched the air.


    Yeos eyes went wide, and his grip on his kusarigama loosened. Dads spear.


    Thats right, Jake said, pointing the spear at Yeo. He gave it to me, Yeo. And do you want to know what he said when he did? Make something of yourself. At least I can have one son to be proud of. Hes done with you, Yeo. No more wasted time. No more dreams. Its time to face reality.


    Yeos hands trembled and his lips pressed together. Then his eyes narrowed, and he rose to his feet, pulling the kusarigama up with him. Jake shook his head.


    Father will be proud, at least. At least one of us turned out to be something. Since is thest time youll ever see it, how about I show you the technique that he taught me?


    Jake changed his stance, aiming the spear at Yeo. Then he blurred, a line of light tracing through the air. Yeo leapt back, but Jake followed after him with surprising speed. Several shes lit the arena and blood sprayed across the ground as half a dozen lines carved across Yeo, cutting through his leather armor.


    Yeo stumbled, several gaping wounds seeping blood all over him. They were all deep enough to be fatal if left untreated for more than a few minutes. Jake spat on the ground and spun away as Yeos kusarigama slipped from his fingers and coiled to the ground.


    This fight is over, Jake said. He cant continue.


    Yeos trembling lips opened. Blood Demon Art: Stitching.


    Jake paused, not even looking back at Yeo. Are you just making shit up now, Yeo? If all youre ever going to do is lose, you could at least do it with some dignity.


    The blood pouring from Yeos body started to slow. A faint hum emanated from his body as tiny tendrils shot through him, pulling the wounds covering him shut. They hadnt been healed  theyd simply been stitched shut. Yeo drew a shuddering breath, then let it out.


    He reached down, wrapping his fingers around the hilt of his kusarigama, and started to spin it slowly in the air beside him.


    Turn around, Jake, Yeo said.


    Jake turned, surprise washing over his face when he saw the other boy whole, the wounds closed. The surprise quickly faded, and he pointed the spear at him again.


    Idiot. Giving fancy names to basic techniques. That wont stop you from bleeding out internally. Its just a surface fix. You might actually die if the healers dont get to you.


    They can get to me when Im done here, Yeo replied, spinning his kusarigama faster. But I wont have my debut ruined. Its just gotten exciting.


    If you want me to break you so badly, I will. Jake charged Yeo with a roar.


    Yeo flicked a de at Jake, who deflected it. It spun off, thunking into the wall of the arena with surprising force.


    Metal Dragon Art: Executioner! Metal poured down Yeos kusarigama and the de at its head grewrger and heavier. He swung it toward Jake, putting all the force he could behind the blow.


    Jake raised one hand as the tip of his spear shimmered with a silvery light. Yeos kusarigama struck his hand and, with a loud crash, shattered into thousands of fragments that rained across him.


    At the same time, Jakes spear punched into Yeos chest. Bands of light ballooned out of it, erupting from Yeos back as half a dozen new wounds opened up, these ones even deeper than thest. Jake ripped his spear free. He took a step back, then paused.


    The screen zoomed in on Yeos wounds. Countless strands of metal shot out within his body and the wounds pulled themselves shut again. This time, it was abundantly clear that every single part of his body was being reconnected, not just his skin.


    That isnt possible. Youre stitching your organs back together? Jake asked. Theres no way you can do that. Its too precise. Metal Essence cant


    Not yours, Yeo agreed, pulling his arm down.


    Jakes arms were yanked into the air as dozens of tiny metal threads materialized around them, running up to the de stuck in the arena wall and then back down to Yeos hand.


    Oops, Yeo said. Did I say Executioner? I meant Puppetmaster.


    Jakes hands lifted higher into the air. The other boy struggled, trying to pull himself free, but the dozens of scratches that Yeo had carved into his armor made great grips for the thin strands. The spear slipped from his grip as it was forced open, and Yeo grabbed the weapon before it could hit the ground.


    For a moment, Yeo studied the spear. Then his eyes narrowed. He tossed it to the ground and extended his hand. Links of chain flew from his pouch, forming into a kusarigama. The metal threads holding Jakes hands up tightened, starting to cut into his armor from his repeated struggling.


    Thats the thing, Yeo said, raising the kusarigama. With enough time and effort, your imprable defense really isnt all that imprable. You can keep fathers spear. I dont need it.


    He whipped his hand forward, bringing the hilt of the kusarigama down on Jakes head with all the force he could muster. The strike snapped the boys head back, and his body went limp, still suspended in the air by the metal threads. Yeo stared at him, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths as seconds ticked by.


    The arena had gone silent for thest part of their fight, as if everyone were holding their breath to see which of the two woulde out victorious. Evidently, the proctors had too. But, after several more seconds passed, Analises voice crackled to life.


    Three is incapacitated and unable to continue the fight! Ny-two takes the victory over three in aplete upset! What an incredible fight, folks!


    A roar filled the arena, louder than it had been for any of the previous fights. Yeos strands unraveled, turning back to tiny fragments of metal and plinking to the ground as he staggered, dozens of wounds carving themselves back across his body.


    Two cultivators shed down to the stage, each forcing a healing pill into one of the boys mouths. Yeo swallowed his, blood still trickling down his lips, and raised a closed fist in victory. Then, wounds weeping even as the pill worked to heal them, he pitched backward and fell unconscious.

 Chapter 53: Little birdie

    Chapter 53: Little birdie


    A cultivator carried Yeo back up to their room, resting him in his chair. After assuring Chance and Be that the boy would be safe and instructing them not to bother him until he woke up, he slipped away.


    Several more fights came and went, but even though it was getting closer to the end of the tournament, they all felt tpared to what had gone down between Yeo and Jake. Chances contemtion of his fighting style hade to aplete halt for the first time in the tournament at the revtion that Yeo and Jake were rted, not to mention what theyd learned about his father.


    Bes expression had been unreadable ever since Jake had revealed his rtionship to Yeo. She just sat, her hands pressed against the armrests of her chair, and watched the fights go by.


    If the cultivator hadnt told them not to wake Yeo, Chance would have already shook his teammate awake to bombard him with questions. Instead, he took control of his emotions and sighed.


    If Yeo didnt want to talk about it, then he didnt have to. And Be clearly didnt want to address it either, so all he could do for the time being was leave the subject to lie until Yeo woke up.


    Nearly thirty minutes passed before their window slid open again and Analises voice echoed through the colosseum.


    Ny-four, fifty-two. Youre up!


    Be practically leapt from her chair as she darted to head down to the arena floor. She hopped off the golden pathway near the bottom, shaking her arms off to get the blood flowing. Her opponent was anky boy carrying a wicked looking polearm, its smooth bronze surface covered with flowing engravings.


    He raised the weapon in slight acknowledgement, then lowered into a fighting stance. Be did the same. Above them Analise was still going off on a tangent about some shop that had sponsored the tournament, but she soon came to a conclusion and started the fight.


    Ice wound around Be, covering her body in a thin, translucentyer of protection. It seeped into the ground, expanding in a small ring around her. Her opponent waited, watching her evenly until the ice had finished its expansion.


    Are your preparations done? he asked.


    Yes, but that doesnt seem like the kind of thing you should be waiting for in a fight, Be said, an icy axe materializing in her hands.


    A fight is not worth my time if it is not fought when you are at your best, the boy replied. He lowered his spear. Then he vanished.


    A clean ringing note rang out through the arena as the polearm scraped across Bes armor. Thenky boy had appeared behind her and attacked with such speed that Chance hadnt even seen him move.


    He squinted, watching the fight closer as it started in earnest. The boy kept at a distance from Be, sending ncing blows toward her whenever an opening arose. In a way, it resembled Yeos fight with Jake.


    Be was far slower than he was, but the boys attacks did little to scratch her defenses. Shed still yet tond a single attack on him, and he didnt look to be getting tired. Still, as far as Chance could tell, the boy didnt have anything special in the way of defense.


    One slip up was all that Be needed to take the lead and the match. Despite that, though, Chance couldnt shake the feeling that she was the one at the disadvantage. It went against everything he could see, but that didnt change his gut feeling.


    He watched closer as the boy twirled, spinning his polearm overhead and bringing it down on Bes shoulder as he slipped past a blow. It rang out against the ice, once more failing to do any damage.


    Chance paused. The note the weapon made almost sounded melodic. He listened closer, tuning out the rest of the arena as best as he could. That didnt help enough, so he closed his eyes as well to focus on listening.


    The constant strikes the boy was hitting Be with werent just random. They sounded beautiful, but moreso together than alone. He was ying music. Chances eyes snapped back open, but he was able to keep the tune in his head now that he was aware of it.


    The harmonious strikes seemed to set a beat, and Bes opponent was dancing to it. He flowed from one movement to the next effortlessly, often moving so quickly that Chance lost track of him. It wasnt that he was ying with her  this was just how he fought.


    Chance focused on his movements when they were slow enough for him to pick up, trying to see what he was doing. But, to his surprise, they didnt seem to be anything special. They were just steps like any other. It didnt look like he was using any techniques either. That only left a single exnation that he was aware of.


    <em>Hes merged his fighting style with his Essence, just like how Lucy wanted to. </em>


    You are an apt warrior, the boy said, leaning back to avoid Bes axe as it whistled over his head. Would you tell me your name?


    Be. A spike of ice shot out from the ground, but the boy was already gone. His polearm rang off her arm and ice reached out to grab it, but hed moved once more.


    This is fun, Be. I am Wren.


    Be dropped her axe as Wrens polearm shot for her chest. She let it strike, then grabbed it with both hands. Ice crept over the handle, reaching for Wrens hands. He grinned and, abruptly, the ice shattered. He bounced back as Bes armor reformed, surprise washing over her face.


    So are you, Be said. Ive never fought someone that fights like this.


    Ah. I have fought many that fight simr to you, though, Wren said. Though none quite the same. Nobody is.


    He bounded forward and brought the polearm down on Bes shoulder, much like he had several times before. This time, however, a deep, chiming note rang out. Cracks spiderwebbed through her armor and it shattered, raining down around her.


    Wren thrust the polearm toward Bes chest. It struck home  and mmed to a halt, unable to prate her skin. Be whacked the weapon out of the way and slipped forward, shooting her leg between Wrens in a remarkably simr move to what Chance had used on her, then threw him to the ground.


    He wound around Be like a snake, slithering free of her grip and slipping out of the ice that threatened to cover him. He skipped back a step and inclined his head as Be rose, irritation clear in her features.


    Clever move, Wren said. Same style as that swordwhip user. You know him?


    Yeah. I stole the move, Be admitted, a note of respect in her voice. How are you so slippery? Is it your Essence?


    Not in the way you think, Wren replied. But your Essence is not so in either, is it? My Essence is that of the Endless Dance.


    Ive never heard of it, Be said. But Ill be looking into it once this is done. Since youre being so frank, Ill do the same. I cultivate the Essence of Preservation.


    Did anyone ever tell you that ice doesnt really preserve things? Salt might have been better, Wren said, giving her a wry smile.


    Be snorted. Yeah. I know. Lets end this. Ive got one trick left. If it doesnt get you, Im smart enough to know that Ive been beaten. Youre holding back, and I still haventnded a single meaningful blow on you.


    Very well. I wee it, Wren said, spinning his polearm once more. Come.


    She did.


    Wisps of white energy curled around Be, gathering around her body and trailing along the ground. Wherever her energy touched, ws of frost traced across the ground and turned it white.


    The energy spread rapidly, reaching Wren far before she did. His eyes widened in surprise as it coiled up his feet, covering his legs in frost and locking him in ce. Then a smile crossed his face, and he leveled his spear to meet her charge.


    It mmed into Bes chest, but she didnt stop. With a loud crack, her fist caught the boy across the chin and snapped his head back. Wren leaned back, his legs still frozen in ce, then slowly lifted himself back to a standing position.


    Chance drew a sharp breath. The noise hadnt been from Bes punch. It had been from her chest. Wrens spear was lodged firmly below her right breast, its point buried deep. Hed broken through her defenses.


    Legs or not, my dance cannot be stopped, Wren said. You were a worthy opponent. If you synchronized better with your Essence, you would have defeated me.


    I didnt though, did I? Be asked with augh, allowing the ice to pull back. I surrender.


    Wren pulled the spear from her chest with a gentle flick of his hand as cultivators jumped down, offering both of them a healing pill. They started to return to their rooms, but one of the men put a hand on Wrens shoulder to stop him. While they spoke, Be stepped back through the window.


    That was still really impressive, Chance said optimistically. He fights


    Beautifully, Be finished, smiling at him as she sat down. Dont worry. Im not disappointed. Really, if I dont count the cheat that Vex gave me, Ive got no more cultivating than you do. Im proud to have gotten this far.


    You should be, Chance said. He threw a nce down at Wren, who still stood in the arena. Id love to fight him. I think hes got what Im missing.


    Ny-three, please head down to the stage! You will be fighting fifty-two, Analise called.


    Chance blinked. Be let out a snort ofughter.


    Looks like you got lucky.


    Always, Chance replied, a tingle of excitement running through his body as he hopped over the edge of the window and descended the glowing bridge.


    Ah. Just the person I was speaking of a few moments ago, Wren said as Chance stepped to the arena floor across from him. I was hoping we would both make it far enough to run into each other. I am lucky. I am curious as to what your Essence is. Youve gotten so far using just physical techniques.


    Chance chuckled. Not on purpose. Ive been trying to figure out my fighting style, and I think youve given me the inspiration I needed. If anything, I should thank you.


    You are training at a tournament? Wrens eyebrows rose. I am negligent in my studies, but to hear that I have helped another pleases me. You have perfected your style, then?


    Nothing even close to that, Chance said quickly. Above them, Analise started rambling again. I just have an idea of what might work. I hope our fight is enjoyable for both of us.


    Likewise, Wren said. Shall we begin?


    Chance nced up at Analise. She hasnt started the match.


    Do we need permission? Wren asked, shing a gleaming grin at Chance. Look. Shes not even listening to us talking, but the arena hears.


    It was a pointless move, saving a few moments and possibly annoying the tournament organizers. Analise was currently in the middle of yet another advertisement, and they probably wouldnt have looked very positively on interruptions.


    Lets do it, Chance said, drawing his urumi. Ready?


    A warrior is always prepared.


    They dashed at each other, and the arena cheered, cutting off Analises speech. She sputtered for a few moments, trying to get control back over them before giving up and just narrating the fight.


    Wrens fighting style was nothing like what he had used against Be. He shifted his polearm to match Chances twirling urumi strikes with swift flicks, moving quickly to avoid getting entangled by the de.


    He didnt use anywhere near the amount of speed that he had against Be, and he didnt even attempt to attack. The boy just matched every move, knocking it away and forcing Chance to keep moving to maintain distance.


    Wren wasnt even attacking him. He simply danced through the flurry of unpredictable blows and movements, grinning the entire time. Chance quickly realized why. Wren was <em>trying </em>to help him train.

 Chapter 54: Taking flight

    Chapter 54: Taking flight


    If anything, that spurred Chance to try even harder. He pushed himself, reaching out to his Essence and trying to determine how to interweave it with his movements. It was imperative that he didnt try to force anything or actually push the Essence in  that was a technique, and it was entirely different.


    This had to be natural. It was embodying Essence, not using it. Chance tried everything he could think of, ranging from politely thanking the Essence to begging it. None of it worked, and despite the flow state of the battle, he was starting to get slightly irritated.


    As they fought, Chance caught a glimpse of Wrens face. There was no stress in his features. His eyes were rxed and his smile gentle. He was helping his opponent train in the middle of an arena with countless people watching them, and there wasnt a single worried bone in his body. He was just enjoying himself.


    Chance disengaged, hopping back, and retracting his urumi. Wrens eyebrows rose as a flicker of disappointment washed over his features.


    You have not mastered your technique yet. Have you decided to stop training?


    No, Chance replied, shaking his head as certainty gripped him harder than ever. I dont need this training anymore.


    You havent even done anything yet. I want to fight you at your strongest. Please, continue. I do not mind doing more.


    Thank you for the offer. Chance smiled at Wren, letting his body rx. He lightened his grip on the urumi, holding the hilt gently like the hand of a lover. But youve already helped me. I am ready to fight properly.


    Are you certain? It is foolish to trustpletely in something you have not tried yet. You should get a feel for it first, if you believe you have discovered something.


    Ive got no need to, Chance replied. I already know it will work.


    Bold. Come, then.


    Not bold, Chance corrected. Lucky.


    He drew in a breath and let it out slowly, allowing his body to rx as if he were in meditation. Yamish had told him what he needed to do many weeks ago, but he hadnt truly understood what the man had said.


    <em>There are many ways to cultivate, huh?</em>


    And then, Chance stopped trying. Or, more urately, he stopped trying to force himself to try. He simply gave himself into the fight. He darted forward, his urumi flicking to life as he flicked his wrist.


    Wren thrust his spear, attacking for the first time that fight. A piece of loose gravel rolled beneath Chances foot and he slipped back, avoiding the blow. He rolled as he hit the ground, and the tail end of his urumi whistled past Wrens head, nearly cutting his ear.


    Chance rolled to the side and hopped up, pirouetting out of the way of another thrust, then dropping into a small bow. His urumi screamed through the air, carving past Wren and forcing him to retreat.


    Augh slipped out of Chances mouth at the ridiculousness of it all. He pressed forward, golden mist wafting from his lips and skin. Wrens eyes lit up.


    Marvelous!


    The two boys threw themselves into the fight, their weapons singing a song as they danced through the arena. All the while, Chances amusement only grew. He didnt just feel good. He felt <em>giddy. </em>This is what his Essence was. Not just Karma. Not just Luck. It was a little bit of each and then some, with a dash of joy of life sshed in. It wasplete faith that things would turn out right.


    Chancesughter grew at that thought, even as Wren increased the intensity of his attacks, pushing him toward the wall of the arena.


    <em>What a simple, idealistic notion. I love it. </em>


    The golden mist grew thicker, surrounding Chance in a faint orb. His backpedaling slowed, and his writhing urumi grew closer to actually cutting Wren with every second. Chance stumbled and slipped, avoiding every single one of his opponents movements anding back up as heughed the entire time.


    Wren took a step backward, narrowly avoiding Chances fist as it sailed past his head. He was forced to hop back again to avoid a stumbling bear hug. Chance hugged himself, spinning in ce and extending his arms, causing the urumis arc to widen and nearly catch Wren across the throat.


    He continued to backpedal as the tides of the battle shifted and Chances momentum continued to increase. Every move Wren made was met with nothing but thin air. Despite his predicament, Wrens grin didnt falter.


    Then Chances urumi, in the midst of coiling back to its resting position, caught Wrens polearm. Before he could react, the weapon was yanked from his grip and thrown across the arena.


    Wrens eyes went wide, and Chances movement slowed to a stop as they both turned to look at the fallen weapon.


    You disarmed me. Wren didnt sound like he believed the words himself.


    Its fine, you can go get your weapon, Chance said, bouncing from foot to foot.


    Wren burst intoughter. Marvelous. This trip was worth it, Chance.


    How do you know my name?


    How could I not? We have been speaking throughout this entire battle. Your dance is so open. It is a marvelous dance. Will you permit me one more thing?


    What is it? I wouldnt have been able to figure this out so quickly if you hadnt helped me, so Id love to repay that.


    I would like to use a technique. I had hoped to avoid it, but I simply cannot hold myself back.


    Please, Chance said. Show me.


    Wren extended his hand. His polearm sprung to the air and shot back to him, pping into his palm. Spinning it around himself, Wren dropped down into a new stance. His smile faded, though a tiny grin still remained, and his features tightened in concentration.


    A faint haze rose around Wren. It warped the air around him, making his body and features shift and flow as if they were hidden under a wavy sea. Wren raised his spear to the heavens, then slowly lowered it toward Chance.


    Prepare yourself, Wren said.


    Chance smiled and raised his urumi, matching Wrens stance. Golden mist swirled around him within the circle, but he could see through it as if nothing was there. I am prepared.


    Wren didnt charge. He didnt even move, as far as Chance could tell. And yet, something changed. His polearm felt different. Foreign. Like something was vastly wrong with it, and that infliction was spreading through the world around them.


    Slowly, Wren pushed the polearm forward. His muscles trembled with exertion and Essence whipped around him in a growing storm. The tip of his spear vibrated, splitting images forming around it as it punched through the air at an incredibly slow pace.


    The images warped and peeled back like nts going through their entire life cycle within instants. They formed, bloomed, and withered away all in the blink of an eye. The hair on Chances neck stood on end.


    Wren flicked the spear upward. Chance spun, his instincts screaming in warning, and heunched himself to the side as hard as he could. As soon as he hit the ground, he lost his footing and stumbled forward. He carried on with the motion, scrambling and bouncing around the arena. Behind him  nothing happened.


    The images grew faster, splitting away from Wrens spear. Chance continued to sprint, the sense of danger only growing stronger. Stones were pulled toward him by some unforeseen maic force, making him stumble and trip more than he ever had before.


    Several times, Chance felt a gust of wind just barely pass by him. And yet, on the screens above, absolutely nothing was behind him. It felt like itsted forever, but Wren let his polearm lower after just over ten seconds.


    He staggered, sweat pouring down his face. And then, only then, did it happen. A howling wind erupted in the colosseum, screaming across the arena ground and carving it to pieces. It trailed after every movement Chance had made, shredding rock to fine dust. The Essence moved so fast that he didnt even have a chance to respond to the dyed attack.


    Chance braced himself to defend against it, but it passed clean through him as if he wasnt there. He blinked, staring in surprise as the churning vortex ripped the ground beneath and before him apart before continuing on, not stopping until it had traced every movement he had made. As soon as it came upon him again, it vanished. All it left behind a faint, sweet smell.


    Your instincts are magnificent. Marvelously done. Wren nted his polearm in the ground and leaned on it, breathing heavily. How did you know?


    I didnt, Chance replied. Im not sure what just happened, actually. I thought you got me.


    Wrenughed. Not even close. Who is your master? You must have been trained by one of the great cultivators of this city.


    Uh Pete, I guess. Whiteheart house.


    Pete? I have not heard of him, Wren said. I will seek


    A powerful force enveloped Chance, mming him to the ground and dismissing his golden mistpletely. His breath caught in his chest and his eyes widened as he struggled to breath.


    Wren sank to one knee across from him, his teeth gritted. He looked up into the crowd, the surprise on his face changing to embarrassment when he made eye contact with someone. Using a supreme force of will, Chance slowly forced himself to turn and follow where Wren was looking.


    In the lowest section of the stands sat a in looking man. He was bald with a gray beard that went down to his chest. His clothes were equally in, made with unobtrusive colors and, at least as far as Chance could tell, were just rough cotton.


    And, without a doubt, the immense energy bearing down on them wasing from the man. There was so much Essence in the man that it was seeping into his surroundings. Tiny wisps of the energy floated through the air toward the arena  but all of them were directed at Wren. Just being in their presence was enough to nearly crush Chance.


    An instantter, the feeling was gone as if it had never been there. There was no more Ether around the in man. He just looked like a kindly uncle that hade to watch the fight. A flicker of embarrassment washed over his face as he made eye contact with Chance.


    What was that? Chance asked, staggering back to his feet.


    My mentor is displeased with me, Wren said, rubbing the back of his head with a sheepish smile. I was not meant to utilize any techniques like that in this tournament. Apologies, Master. I was too caught up in our fight.


    The in man waved his hand. Wren cleared his throat and straightened up.


    Im sorry, Chance. Well have to end this here. But Ill be seeking you out again, I promise. This fight was too thrilling to just leave it like this.


    Chance raised his weapons, prepared for Wren to finally go all out against him, but the boy did nothing of the sort. Instead, he nted his polearm in the stone ground and raised both of his hands into the air.


    I withdraw from the tournament.

 Chapter 55: First

    Chapter 55: First


    Surprised mumbles ran through the crowd, and even Analise was taken aback. After a few moments, she cleared her throat and her voice crackled back to life over the arena.


    Ny-three wins due to withdrawal. Ny-three, please remain on the stage. Ladies and gentlemen, I am simultaneously pleased and disappointed to announce that we areing up on the final match of the tournament. This will be quite an interesting one. The two finalpetitors are already familiar with each other. In fact, theyre from the very same Shikari training house. Ny-two, please make your way down to the stage.


    Chance spun as a golden path materialized, leading down from the rest room that hed been using and stopping just across from him. Yeo hopped out of the window, sliding down it andnding lightly on the ground before Chance with a huge grin.


    Yes! This is it, Yeo eximed, grabbing and pumping Chances hand in a furious, excited handshake. Man, the adrenaline is killing me. You and me at the finals. Can you even imagine a better debut than that?


    I thought yourst fight was your debut, Chance said with a wry smile. It fell away, turning to a small frown. Are you okay? I mean, that fight with Jake


    They gave me a healing pill. And this whole tournament is my debut.


    Thats not what I meant.


    I know, Yeo replied, shing him a grin. But thats the only answer youre getting, especially when weve got a giant screen projecting our words everywhere. All these good people need to hear is that Chance is my rival, and this fight will be the first of our many vicious duels!


    Seriously? Were teammates.


    Every good team has a pair of frenemies. Besides, the crowd loves it. Am I right? Yeo turned, extending his hands. Somehow, he got a fair number of cheers and hollers. He beamed, spinning back to Chance. This really is perfect, Chance. Im so d we managed to make it to the finals.


    Im not entirely sure how that happened, to be honest. I am too, though. This will be really interesting.


    As interesting as yourst one? I doubt it, Yeo said with a chuckle. He pulled his kusarigama from his side and spun it. That was something else to watch, but its time we find out how that new style of yours holds up against my secret technique.


    Youve already used it. Its no longer secret.


    Hush. Yeo held a finger up to his lips and winked conspiratorially. The crowd chuckled and Chance shook his head in disbelief. Yeo really did have a talent for getting the people on his side. Maybe he really was going to get himself famous.


    It looks like ourpetitors are ready, Analise called. Onest time, lets give them a cheer! Now, get to some blood, boys. Begin!


    Yeo or not, Chance wasnt going to hold back. If he had, his friend never would have forgiven him. He sunk into the flow of battle, enveloping the golden mist with a smile on his face. Yeo opened the fight with a whistling blow aimed at Chances chest.


    Chance rolled to the side and came up, whipping his hand sharply to send the urumi biting for Yeos side. Yeo vaulted backward, then spun and sent the sickle nipping at the other boys heels.


    A second kusarigama joined the first as Yeo intensified his assault, but Chance ducked and wove between every piece of spinning metal, his urumi steadily growing closer to striking Yeo.


    First blood went to Chance as he sprung forward after stumbling out of the way of a spinning sickle, catching Yeo across the chest with his urumi. Chains whistled around Chance as Yeo tried to entangle him, but he dove into a roll, throwing himself between the links anding out unharmed. Augh slipped from his mouth as the joy of the fight started to intensify.


    Yeo called out the names of various moves, swapping his movements up whenever Chance grew too close. It was clear hed been holding back when theyd sparred before the tournament, but it wasnt enough, and Chances advantage started to grow.


    More attacks caught Yeo, though none were serious. If anything, that just made the kusarigama wielder more excited. The ring of metal filled the arena as they moved around in a dance that Wren would have been proud of, their weapons tearing up the ground around them.


    Chances urumi slipped through Yeos guard and pierced him in the stomach, biting deep before it was yanked back to the resting position. Yeo staggered, but his lips were already moving. Blood Demon Art: Stitching.


    His wounds all pulled themselves together and Yeo bared his teeth in a grin. Its a battle of endurance now, Chance.


    Chance was having too much fun to respond, but from the glint in Yeos eye, he could tell that the other boy understood. They leaped at each other once more. Instead of trying to avoid the cutting blows of the urumi, Yeo took them head on, electing to trade strike for strike.


    His kusarigama scored across Chances chest for the first time that fight, leaving a deep furrow behind. The sting of the wound barely affected Chance, but it bolstered Yeos confidence significantly.


    He increased the speed of his attacks, swapping between one and two weapons to try and get a surprise attack in on the other boy. Yeo shattered one of his kusarigama, sending the metal fragments flying for Chance.


    None of them hit. The golden mist churned in a sphere around Chance, and while the metal easily passed into its domain, it was unable to reach him. If he had been standing in rain, then Chance likely would have been dry.


    Every single attack just flowed past him. Chance had stopped increasing in speed, but the unpredictability of his strikes put him at a huge advantage, even with Yeos healing abilities. A fist caught Yeo in the chin, and the urumi scored across him before he could regain his bnce.


    Chance pressed his advantage, anotherugh bursting forth as he spun and weaved. He was a conductor, and his urumi the orchestra. At the same time, Yeos feet started tond on loose pebbles and cracked stone more and more.


    He lost his footing several times, often taking a serious blow in the process. Even with his attempts to trade strikes with Chance, he was still losing ground. He managed tond a few more blows on him, but without aura to resist Chances golden mist, Yeo was hard pressed to aplish anything.


    His movements started to slow as his stamina receded. Chances movements suffered simrly as the minutes dragged on, but Yeo was running out faster than he was because of the healing technique.


    Yeo slipped on arge rock and went down in a tumble of des. Chance pounced on him, bringing the urumi down to end the fight. Only after his lunge did he see the smug grin cross the other boys face.


    Metal surged around them, wires appearing all around them, pieces of jagged metal rushing down along them toward Chance. There were so many that it was impossible to dodgepletely.


    There was only one path left, and Chance took it. Metal tore into his body, constricting his neck and biting deep into his skin. At the same time, his urumi mmed into the ground just beside Yeos neck, prating several inches through the stone.


    They stared at each other for a second, making no noise beyond the pant of their breathing and the drip of blood onto the ground. Then Yeoughed, letting his head fall back against the stone.


    That would have been a fatal blow when I released my stitching. I concede.


    The metal strands dropped, falling around them. Chances urumi returned to its bracelet form and slipped around his wrist and he groaned, staggering as the pain of the wounds covering him finally caught up.


    Cultivators appeared beside them, forcing healing a healing pill into Yeos mouth before he could let the stitching expire. No sooner than they had did he fall limp, letting out a groan as wounds bloomed and sealed all over his body as the pills started to work.


    Chances wounds were mostly superficial, but thest attack had left a prettyrge cut across his throat and there were several seeping cuts on his chest and arms. He took the healing pill from his cultivator gratefully, popping it into his mouth and letting the gold mist fade away.


    What a brilliant end to the fight! Analise called. Two Shikari, going all out in their heartfelt fight to prove themselves. I think that might be one of the most exciting finals weve had in a while  for this rank, at least! Make sure toe back tomorrow for the Knight tournament! If you thought this one was exciting, tomorrows will burn your shorts right off. Now, before I leave you all, a quick word from our sponsors.


    Chance rolled his eyes and knelt beside Yeo.


    That was a fantastic fight.


    Damn straight, Yeo agreed. And, once I figure out how to use aura, you better get ready to lose. Dont you dare get taken out by someone else until I get a chance to get around to it. Public opinion of me will plummet if you do.


    Im looking forward to it, Chance said, extending a hand and shaking his head in bemusement. Yeo grabbed it and he pulled the other boy to his feet.


    Have you ever wanted to travel without worrying about more powerful cultivators tracking you? Analise asked. I know I have. And, with the Cloak of Nor-Vep, you can too. Itll protect you from any attempts to track you or your Essence, and it can even make a projection of yourself in another location to help throw your enemies off.


    Chance was tempted to ask if anyone actually bought any of the stuff Analise advertised, but considering his voice was probably still amplified by the huge screen above them, he decided against it.


    When do the awards show up? Yeo asked one of the cultivators beside them. He just won, you know.


    I saw, the man said with a chuckle. Theyll arrive at your ce of residence in a day. It can take longer for higher level tournaments, but this was still just a Squire ranked one, so weve got everything we need in hand. And, good fight to both of you. I cant remember thest time Ive seen such interesting fights between Squires, and it wasnt even just the finals. There were all sorts of impressive fighters this time around. I shudder to think whatsing if the universe is seeding us with such talent.


    Probably lots of fame and money, Yeo said, puffing his chest out. Want an autograph?


    The man burst intoughter. I love the persona, kid. I gotta ask, was the whole thing with the boy that imed to be your brother set up as an act? I felt like I was watching a y. Really well done.


    Yeo hesitated for a moment before pointing up at the screen and winking. Cant say. Ruins the mystique. If you want more, youll have to keep an eye out for me.


    That elected another amused snort. Perhaps I will.


    A golden pathway stretched down, offering exit from the arena and return to their waiting room where Be was sitting. The crowd started to filter out of the stands above them, even while Analise continued to go on about some other sponsor. Yeo and Chance headed up the pathway to meet back up with Be.

 Chapter 56: Promise

    Chapter 56: Promise


    I cant believe it. Well, I can, but still. Be said once theyd stepped back into the room. Especially you, Chance. Yeo did brilliant as well, of course, but you only got to Centurion a few months ago. Winning the Squire ranked tournament this quickly has to be breaking some kind of record.


    Yeo pped Chance on the back. It was our rivalry that spurred him onward.


    Since when did that happen? Watching the fight was the first Id heard of it, Be said, narrowing her eyes.


    In the fight. He just knew wed be rivals, so was working harder the entire time in preparation. If Id done the same, I would have been way better too. Thats just how smart Chance is. Yeos face waspletely straight, and his words so serious that if Chance hadnt known him better, he would have wondered if the boy was actually being serious.


    Be gave him no such benefit of the doubt and socked him in the shoulder. Yeo yelped, hopping back and cradling his arm. Youre the one with the super defense, not me. Keep those thumpers of yours to yourself.


    You get the rest of the day, Be said. After that, were sparring. I cant believe you held so much back when we fought before. I feel like aplete idiot.


    It was for my dramatic reveal. Yeos grin flickered and fell for a moment. Sorry about that, though. Didnt mean to make a fool of you.


    Its fine. I probably should have seen iting, Be said, shaking her head. Ill do better next time. Ive been saving up quite a bit of the money weve earned, unlike the two of you. Im going to get myself ess to someone who can guide me out of the rut Im currently stuck in.


    The doors behind them slid open, and dull chatter filled the halls as other young Shikari filed out. Several groups passed by their room, and they got several waves from the tournament participants that recognized them. Chance returned them, even though he couldnt remember if hed gone against most of them. It was just the polite thing to do.


    Wren was really something else, though, Chance said. Did you see him helping me train while we fought?


    Be nodded. Hes got to be the son of some really powerful family, or his master is unbelievably strong. I felt like I was learning just from fighting him, and he wasnt even trying to help me like he was for you.


    Maybe you could pay him to hang out with you, Yeo suggested as the three headed out of their room and joined the stream of people walking to the exit of the arena. I bet that would be really effective. Hes pretty hot, though. You might not be able to afford his time.


    Sounds like youre jealous, Be said. Wishing you saved up some of your own money?


    Me? Jealous? Never. Yeo ced a hand above his heart and looked into the sky, nearly stumbling into the person in front of him in the process. He caught his bnce and, without pausing, struck a dramatic pose. I am a paragon of all virtues.


    Right, Be and Chance drawled in unison.


    They headed out of the colosseum and down the massive golden pathway back into Gleam proper. When they reached the bottom, they broke away from the churning crowds and sat down on a bench near themotion.


    You think Pete will be able to find us here? Chance asked. Its really busy.


    It should be fine. We can wait a bit, and if he cant, we can just head back to the Whiteheart house and meet him there, Yeo said, rolling his neck and slinging his arms over the back of the bench with a sigh. Man, Im beat. That was fun. You think the next tournament will be soon?


    Chance and Be stared at him.


    I certainly hope not, Chance said. Ive got too much to practice to worry about yet another tournament. Then again, if it pays <em>really </em>well, I suppose I wontin too much.


    A small shadow fell over the bench behind Chance. Thinking about the next tournament already? Chance, you are far more ambitious than I thought.


    He craned his neck back and Wren raised a hand slightly in greeting. Behind him, the in man from the tournament stood, his hands crossed behind his gray beard.


    Wren! Chance stood, turning to fully face the boy. I didnt think wed run into each other so quickly after the tournament.


    Why? We both live in Gleam, do we not? Wren asked, the corner of his lips quirking in a smile. But, to admit the truth, neither did I. My impression was that Id be doing some private training for a while due to my actions at the tournament.


    What actions? You just fought normally, Yeo said. If anything, you held back, didnt you?


    Like Chance, I was using this as an opportunity to train, Wren said. But, unlike Chance, I did not reap the benefits that I had hoped to. I was meant to onlypete using my fighting style and no other abilities, but the match was simply too exciting for me to keep myself from doing more. Thus, I had expected to be doing solitary practice as punishment for forcing my master to dishonor himself.


    Dishonor? Chance asked, surprised. How?


    I mistakenly caught you in my gaze, the man behind Wren said, speaking for the first time. His voice was, forck of better words, smooth and syrupy. It felt like honey on a warm day. And, though my disciple is taking credit for that mistake, its fault lies entirely on me. I did not expect you to be so perceptive. Please ept my forgiveness for interfering in your fight.


    Oh, at the end of the fight? Chance asked. Thats fine, theres really no reason to apologize. Wren was a really strong opponent, and he definitely could have defeated me if he fought without holding back. If anything, Im deeply within his debt for his aid in training me while we fought.


    Theres no point fighting someone if they cant put out their best, Wren said. He nced at Yeo. Speaking of, your name was Yeo, right? I loved your fights, both against Chance and your brother. Very inspiring. I havent seen Metal Essence used like that before. Id love to spar you once I get some time.


    The feeling is mutual, Yeo said.


    Forgive me for my continued interruption, Wrens mentor said, raising a hand slightly. But I cannot simply just ept your refusal of my apology. Whether you believe it a slight or not, I have still acted against you. My conscious would not be at rest unless that mistake was corrected.


    Oh, do you cultivate Karma? Chance asked.


    Karma? No, nothing so vast, the man replied with a small smile. But, nheless, burdens upon the soul should not be kept. Do you have any unmet needs for resources or knowledge? I would rest easier if I knew that I had lightened your burden on this coil in any way.


    Thats really kind of you to offer, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. But, to be totally honest, Wren helped me more than I can put into words.


    Which is your debt to him, not to me, the man said gently. His actions are not my own, and mine are not his.


    That makes sense. Huh. Honestly, I need a lot of things, but nothing that I feel appropriate to ask for. If you really do think that you owe me something, then handing me a bunch of low level cultivation aid pills probably wouldnt make you feel much better.


    You speak like a true Karma cultivator. Unusual for one of your age. But, yes. Unless you truly desired those pills, I would feel as if I had still slighted you.


    What if you help my friend, then? Chance asked, nodding to Be. Shes at a bottleneck. Is there a technique or something that you think might help her?


    Be choked. What? I dont need


    Karma cultivator indeed, the man said, his smile growing wider. I recall her fight against Wren. An impressive defense, but still some confusion on your Essence. Preservation, was it?


    Be shifted ufortably. Yes, it was. I dont feelfortable having Chance spend a favor on me, though.


    Ah, but you are part of his team, are you not? An increase in your strength will also aid your friend.


    Wren gave her a thumbs up. Might as well give in. Hes set on it now.


    Yeo opened his mouth, then closed it and shook his head. Theyre right. None of us want you to fall behind, and Chance keeps getting lucky with his encounters. You might as well mooch some of it. I sure will be.


    Be flushed and let her head fall slightly. Okay. If youre sure.


    Splendid. I will look into what I may be able to do to aid in your problem and send Wren once I have discovered a solution, the man said. He put a hand on Wrens shoulder and smiled. I look forward to watching all of your progress. Gleam is in great need of powerful cultivators.


    A gentle haze washed up from the ground around them. It coiled around their bodies and warped the air. Then it faded, taking Wren and his master with it.


    You really didnt have to do that, Be said, her cheeks still red. I dont want to just hang off your coattails.


    Make it up by getting strong, Yeo said. Then you can help him out when he needs it. Also, youll be able to withstand my unstoppable flurry of blows without crumpling like a leaf in the wind.


    I think youve gotten a slightly skewed perception of how our fights have gone, Be said, her eyes narrowing.


    Oh? Yeo cocked an eyebrow in a clear challenge. Well have to repeat them when we get back, then.


    Chance suppressed a smile. Intentionally or not, Yeo had justpletely shifted Bes embarrassment away and gotten her to think about something else. Out of the corner of his eye, in the middle of the slowly shrinking crowd, Chance spotted Pete heading in their direction.


    He raised his hand in greeting and the older mans eyes lit up. He slipped around thest few people in his way and hurried over to them, raising his hands as he drew up.


    You won! And, by the gods, all of you performed incredibly. Simply marvelous. Im very proud of all of you.


    You helped a lot, Yeo said. All those extra sparring sessions we had made a world of difference.


    I only did my job, and poorly at that, Pete said, shaking his head. None of this lies on my shoulders. It is entirely on you and your hard work. Splendid indeed. I think we shall have to get something in celebration of this asion, my treat. Ive got a little extra coin from myst job, as I destroyed less of the city than usual whilepleting it.


    They all burst intoughter. They headed away from the bench and into the crowd, allowing Pete to lead them toward a restaurant.

 Chapter 57: Celebrations

    Chapter 57: Celebrations


    Their celebrations went well into the night. Pete ordered them round after round of food, refusing to let any of his students spend a single coin of their own money. Hisst job must have paid a lot better than hed let on, though Chance suspected he wouldnt have much left of the coin by the time the night was over.


    He did his best not to spend too much of the older mans money, but Pete was incessant and made sure to refill Chances te whenever it was even starting to get close to empty. It became evident that he wasnt going to give up, so Chance just surrendered and let himself rx.


    It had been so long since hed been able to really justpletely rx and let loose, and he savored every second of it. The memory carved itself into his mind as one of the most enjoyable nights of his life.


    As he and his teamughed the night away, a shift urred in the stars dotting the purple sky above Gleam. A swathe of darkness flicked through the air, blotting out the brightest star for just an instant before it shot down, spiraling through one of Gleams towering buildings, and alighted on the roof of a store.


    The darkness rose, twisting up in a pir to form into a man. His long ck hair fluttered behind his head, settling over his pointed shoulders as the wind around him faded. The mans head rose. Like a vial of ink had been spilled into the pool of his eyes, ck washed over his pupils.


    Tiny bands of golden light fluttered around him, desperately trying to cling to his body. They sizzled faintly wherever they touched his skin. The man plucked them off, irritation crossing his features.


    I hate this city, Vex growled, stepping out into the streets. His scowl deepened as he stepped beneath a glowingmp. It shattered, and by the time the ss had fallen to the ground, he was already gone.


    Deep within the Old City, Yamish floated in meditation. His arms made the yin-yang symbol before his chest, and strands of golden and ck light intertwined between them. The serene expression on his face faded to one of slight displeasure as he shifted, rotating so that his head pointed toward the moon once more.


    He uncrossed his arms and his eyes opened, casting a brief flicker of gold through the broken alleyways before the light within them faded. Yamish uncrossed his arms and ran his tongue along his lips, wetting them.


    Hanging in the air before him was a single, ck strand of Karma. It was as thick as a rope, and it traveled out through a wall and into Gleams main streets. Yamish ran a finger along the strand, his eyes narrowing as tiny sparks of Karma sheared away and vanished into his palm.


    Then he was gone, and the Old City trembled at his passing.


    ***


    The tournament rewards arrived the following morning in the form of three brown paper wrapped packages. By the time Chance and the others headed downstairs, the packages had all been set out on the table.


    Pete had already left, likely to try and make up some of the coin that hed spent on them the previous night. A flicker of embarrassment passed through Chance.


    Stop that, Be said, picking up the smallest of the packages.


    Stop what?


    Youre feeling bad about spending Petes money.


    What? Howd you know?


    It was kind of obvious, Yeo put in. Shes right. Pete wasnt forced to spend anything. He did it on his own, and it would be disrespectful to him to start feeling bad about it.


    Be set the small package down and picked up thergest one. She tossed it to Chance, who caught it with a grunt. Your tournament rewards.


    Thanks, Chance said, surprised at the weight. He set the package down and pulled the paper off to reveal a wooden box within it. And youre probably right. Good point. Thanks guys.


    No problem, Yeo replied. He tore the wrapping off his own, slightly smaller box and flipped it open. Yeo let out a whistle of appreciation. Now thats some good stuff.


    Chance opened his own, and his eyes lit up. Vials covered the topyer of the box, all packed full of medicinal pills. He recognized a small number of them as healing pills and cultivation aids, but the rest werepletely foreign to him. Beneath the pills was arge, bulging sack with the number <em>five thousand </em>printed across it in bold, golden letters.


    Wow, they really did pay you well, Be said, peering over his shoulder. I got five hundred gold. Not bad, honestly. I didnt think Id get anything at all.


    I guess they just want to support all the cultivators that are doing well, and you still made it pretty far into the tournament, Yeo pointed out. But, man. Chance really did get paid. I got half the money and pills that he did.


    Dontin too much. I think the pills are worth a lot more than the coin, Be said, snatching one of Yeos vials and holding it up to the light to study its contents. Would it have killed them tobel these? Kind of defeats the purpose if we dont know what they do.


    Im sure theyve got some reasoning for it. We could probably ask the apothecary, Chance said, carefully looking through his rewards. He handled each vial with care, making sure not to mistakenly damage or open them. Wow. We should win more tournaments.


    We might also get some better jobs after the ssh you and Yeo made, Be said. With all the attention the two of you got, I wouldnt be surprised if we get some extra attention sent our way by the Shikari or just other random cultivators. It might be a good way to increase our earnings.


    You just said a lot of words I like in a very short timespan, Yeo said, closing his box of prices and hefting it off the table. It might be a good idea to wait around a little bit before we get back to doing jobs then, right? In a few days, we could have some better options.


    I cant say for sure, but I feel like thats probably the case.


    That works for me. Id like to figure out what all of this does and get some training in to make sure I dont lose anything I learned from the tournament, Chance said, closing his own box and patting the top. The training takes priority, actually. I feel like the inspiration I got while fighting Wren might slip away if I dont go back over them soon.


    Perhaps we should all focus on training for a week or so, then reconvene afterward? Be suggested.


    Works for me, Yeo said. Im going to go figure out what this stuff does. See you lot around.


    Chance and Be watched him go, then nced at each other after a moment of silence.


    Do you think we should bring it up? Chance asked.


    The stuff that happened during the tournament?


    Yeah. The stuff with Jake. I feel like he would have told us if he wanted to, but its also out there now.


    Im honestly not sure if Im the right person to ask about this, Be hedged, adjusting the cor of her shirt and looking down. You saw how I dealt with them.


    Chance cleared his throat. Yeah. Im not exactly doing the best there either. I guess it isnt really our business, but that didnt exactly stop me with you either. Do you think we should push?


    Might be good to wait a little and feel the situation out, Be decided. Lets touch back on it after the week is over. If Yeo wants to broach the topic on his own, he will. If he doesnt, then we can take a look at things and see if we should try to talk to him about it.


    Sounds good to me, Chance said with a nod. Im going to go do some solo practice then. If you want to sparter, Id be more than willing to.


    Ill take you up on that.


    Be bid Chance farewell as he returned to his room, dropping his box of winnings off before heading out to the small yard in the back of the house to review what hed learned at the tournament.


    That was a task easier said than done. Hed learned so much during the tournament that it took several hours for him to go through everything on a surface level, just making sure he remembered all of it.


    Luckily, the training that Lucy gave him was firmly set in his mind. He couldnt have forgotten it if he wanted, and most of his advancements were so directly tied to it that he didnt have to reach too far.


    Once Chance was confident he still remembered everything hed done during the tournament, he set about practicing. He went through the forms Lucy had taught him, but modified them with all the changes and improvements hed made to make them fit him better.


    He then moved onto embodying his Essence, bringing the golden mist forth to form a warm circle around him. While it wasnt nearly as easy to do it while practicing as it had been during the middle of the fight, the Essence still functioned as it had.


    Chance spent the rest of the day doing much of the same. When night finally fell, he retired to his room and set about meditating to make sure his cultivation didnt fall behind. The night came and went, and the following day went simrly.


    Even with all the improvements hed made, there was still so much to improve and perfect that the training felt like it had no concrete end in sight. Considering he was just a Squire, and Lucy had said that cultivators could get even stronger than gods outside of Gleam, he figured that probably wasnt too far from the truth.


    Wren dropped by the Whiteheart house on the third day, but he didnt stay long. After greeting Chance, who was eating breakfast at time, he found Be and dragged her away, saying that his master had discovered the thing they were looking for.


    She shot Chance a panicked look an instant before the energetic boy dragged her out the door and let it fall shut behind them. Chance nced from his porridge to the door, then picked his spoon back up and took another bite. Wren hadnt even been there for an entire minute.


    He finished his food off, then collected the box of his winnings and headed out, making for Madam Babas apothecary. A tiny bell chimed as he stepped inside, and the old woman squinted at him from behind her counter.


    Here to buy more cultivation pills? I have no idea where youre putting them. With the amount youve gone through, Id expect impurities to be seeping out of your skin.


    Not this time. Not yet, at least, Chance said with a sheepish grin. He set the box down on the counter in front of her. I was hoping you could identify some of the pills Ive got here. I won them as a reward, but they werentbeled.


    Baba cocked an eyebrow and gestured impatiently at the box. Chance clicked it open, and she peered inside. Her wrinkled brow rose in surprise as she studied its contents.


    Whered you get this?


    I won a tournament.


    Did you now? These are pretty high quality, boy. Worth a pretty coin.


    How do you know? Chance asked, peering at the vials. They just looked like normal pills to him.


    I do this for a living, among other things. Trust me, I know a good pill when I see one. It might take me a little time to go through all of these, though. Youve got quite a few variants, and I dont recognize all of them.


    Thats fine. How long?


    Give me three days. That should be enough to perform some tests and make sure that nothing will blow up your cultivation base on ident. What idiots didntbel pills they gave you?


    The Shikari.


    Baba snorted. Figures. Bunch of idiots. Ill take the pills and let you keep the coin. We both know youll spend it all here anyway.


    She cackled, and Chanceughed as well. The old woman wasnt wrong. He didnt want to think about how many pills hed bought from her over thest few weeks.


    Ille back in a few days then. Do you need payment for this?


    No need. Youre already paying my rent, Baba said, shing a gap-toothed grin at him. And identifying pills is fun. Not much left that is at this point, so itll be a nice change. Now get lost, Baba needs to work.


    Chance pulled all the vials out of the box and put them on the counter before Baba. He raised a hand in farewell, already more than used to the womans abrasive personality, then slipped out of the store with the box under his arm. He wasnt worried that shed take anything from him. Despite her attitude, the old woman felt honest.


    <em>Well, either that or Im an idiot. Maybe both.</em>


    He headed through the crowded streets, making for the Whiteheart house, entirely unaware of the pitch ck eyes that trailed him from the shadows.

 Chapter 58: Threats

    Chapter 58: Threats


    Vex trailed the boy through Gleam, stepping from one shadow to another. It was a fairly pointless exercise, but after the pain it had taken to get into the city, he couldnt resist observing the meddling Karma Cultivators protg.


    Part of him wanted to end the boy there and then, but his survival instincts were strong enough to realize how much of a mistake that would be. Eliminating him would take considerable effort, and Vex would have to take extra care to ensure the karma of the boys death didnt fall on him. Karma was powerful, but it wasnt all-seeing.


    The more he watched the boy, the more annoyed Vex grew. There was nothing special about him. Vex tripped arge, heavily muscled cultivator with a tiny tendril of dark water as the boy passed by him, curious to see how the boy would handle the conflict.


    The man cursed and spun, grabbing Chance by the shoulder. Despite his size, the movement was slow and heavy-handed. Vex could tell the boy saw iting, but he did nothing to stop it.


    Im sorry, mister. Is everything okay? Chance asked.


    You tripped me.


    Did I? Im sorry. I was caught up in my thoughts. I didnt mean to cause you any inconvenience. Are you okay?


    What? I  yeah. Of course Im fine, the man snapped, the wind dropping from his sails. Watch where youre going.


    Ill make sure to pay more attention. Sorry for the bother.


    It doesnt matter anymore, the man said, trudging away.


    Vex shook his head. Taking me for something he hadnt even done without an instant of hesitation. The kid was a coward. He just couldnt see what the Karma Cultivator saw in him. In the end, it didnt matter. The boy would be dealt with  but not before Be.


    A tingle ran down Vexs spine. He bared his teeth, a tiny flicker of white in the darkness. Nobody stole from him and got away with it. Be had already lived several stolen months. It was time for him to reim them.


    He dismissed his cloak of shadows and prepared to step from the alley. A cold hand fell on his shoulder, and a stillness passed over Vex. A powerful chill washed down his back, making his hair stand on end in a way that it hadnt in hundreds of years.


    You, Vex snarled, batting the hand away and spinning around. He already knew who it was  nobody else had snuck up on him in recent years.


    Yamish floated in the alley before him, streamers of ck and golden light twisting around his arms. The Karma Cultivator cocked his head to the side.


    I believe you were instructed to keep your distance from my student.


    You dont own the city, Vex said. And youre just a will fragment. If you interfere, Ill crush you. This isnt the same as thest time we met.


    Yamishs lips parted in a grin, revealing pointed teeth. Perhaps. And then you would be struck down by my true self for the great Karma you would incur upon killing me. A true body in exchange for a clone. A fair trade, I think.


    ck water roiled at Vexs feet. It bubbled up around him, the watery tendrils ripping through the stone around them and leaving jagged furrows behind. Yamish watched idly,pletely unperturbed by the other mans tantrum.


    Very well. Ill leave the boy alone, Vex said. Hes worthless. But I will not be denied what I have already paid for. The girl is mine.


    He turned, moving to walk out of the alley. The world spun around Vex, and he found himself standing to face Yamish once again.


    We have not finished our conversation, Yamish said, intecing his fingers. Sit down.


    Ill do nothing


    Stone rose up behind Vex. It formed into a solid, straight backed chair and pped into the back of his legs. Bands of golden light snapped shut around his arms and legs, yanking him down into the seat.


    That was not a request, Yamish said, floating lower so he was still at eye-level with Vex. You seem to misunderstand our situation.


    I misunderstand nothing. You are protecting your student. Intent to act is not punishable, as I havent done anything yet. Even your Karma agrees with that, Vex spat. I wont touch the boy, so theres nothing more for us to discuss. If you continue to restrain me, I will be well within my rights to defend myself. Your true self would then incur negative Karma if he sought me out.


    The bands vanished, freeing Vexs limbs. He stood, brushing himself off and smirking. An enjoyable talk, Karma Cultivator. We wont meet again.


    Stone lurched, wrapping around his body and mming him back into the chair. Yamishs eyebrows rose.


    Stunning. You appear to be restrained, but I am afraid Ick any ability to control stone. Who could have done that?


    Vex snarled. ck water raced up the stone, digging into it and shearing the material away. But, as fast as it cut, more stone rose to block his Essence. He narrowed his eyes and extended his senses into the rock, tracing whoever was controlling it.


    An unfathomable amount of Essence drove into his mind, throwing him back into his body with enough force to send blood spraying from his nose. Vex gasped at the unexpected attack.


    What is that?


    The city, Yamish replied. His words grew darker as the bands of ck light from his left hand extended, binding around themselves in the air and attaching to Vexs chest. And that question did note free, as it was of great importance. You have established debt to me.


    Vex froze. Only for a single question.


    Yamish cocked an eyebrow. An avnche begins with a small shift. Now, I believe we were talking. The city appears to wish that you remain here andplete our conversation.


    Youre trying to tell me the city has an awareness? Vex asked. He caught himself immediately and continued before Yamish could answer. That was rhetorical, you bastard. Dont answer that. If you want to have a conversation, drop the Karma requirements for what we discuss.


    dly. We may speak freely.


    Fine. What do you want?


    Yamish syed his fingers out. You seem to have an interest in my student and the mortals he lives with. As such, this concerns me. Exin.


    Why should I tell you my personal business? Ive already promised to keep away from your student.


    Which you did once before, and you already failed, Yamish observed. He leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. If you do not speak, then there is no conversation. And, if there is no conversation, then we are enemies. You do not want that.


    Vex matched Yamishs gaze for several seconds. Then he grunted. My only real target is Be. She owes me a life-debt, and she betrayed me. As such, I will be collecting it.


    You mean to kill your student?


    She is my student no longer. I will be reiming the power I wasted on her, Vex replied with a shrug. It was her who established the deal. There is no room for anyone to object. She promised her life to me. It is mine to collect.


    Yamish crossed his hands again. So it seems. What great power does this girl possess, so that you woulde here yourself simply to reim it?


    Vex grunted. Yamish cocked his head to the side.


    She does not have one, does she? The girl is a normal cultivator. You came to kill here purely because she slighted you.


    And if I did? Those who dare stand against me deserve nothing more. I would show no mercy to anyone that dares disrespect my strength.


    I think, Yamish said, cing a finger on his chin, that you are a pathetic man. Any cultivator who would stoop low enough to crush out a tiny spark just because it has irked them is no cultivator in my eyes. You are a bitter, sallow sack of flesh.


    Is this how you typically converse? Vex drawled. Because I dont believe it to be very productive. I was unaware that Karma Cultivators enjoy spending their time forcing others to listen to worthless insults.


    No insults. I only speak the truth, Yamish said. But, if the girl has a life debt, it would indeed establish bad Karma if I interfered.


    Im d were on the same page. Release me, then. Our business is over.


    Unfortunately, Yamish continued, ignoring Vexpletely, I have taken more of a liking to my student than you seem to believe. He would be upset if you killed the girl without giving her a fair chance.


    Vex blinked. What? Are you asking me to spare her because you dont want the boy to be sad? And you think Ill just do as you ask? How arrogant are you?


    Infinitely so, Yamish replied. But I did not say spare. I do not care nearly that much. I simply require a fighting chance.


    There is no universe in which she could survive a fight against me, Vex said. It is impossible for her to <em>have </em>a chance.


    I see, Yamish said. Very well. Enjoy your time in gleam.


    Yamish turned, floating toward the dark end of the alleyway. The stone bindings covering Vex didnt budge.


    You havent released me, Vex said.


    I was not the one holding you captive, Yamish reminded. You will have to take yourint up with the city. Unfortunately for you, I believe it likes the boy far more than I. You might be here for a few dozen years. It has a nigh endless source of Essence.


    Vexs eyes widened. Wait!


    Yamish turned to look back at Vex. Yes? I was under the impression you no longer wanted to speak.


    Youre a bastard. What do you want from me?


    Want? I want for nothing. The universe delivers unto me all of my desires before I know them, Yamish said. And you are the instrument of my next movement in this game. You will aid me in my goals. In doing so, you may find that your own are also aplished.


    Vex spat on the ground. Frilly words do little to hide that youre asking me to do your bidding. Do you truly believe you can hold me here if I do not wish to be held? Karma be damned, I am no mere pawn. Push me farther, and Ill kill you, Karma be damned.


    Your words would be more intimidating if you were not bound in rock.


    I am allowing myself to be held for the time being, Vex growled. Do not confuse my desire to avoid a massive fight withcency.


    Yamish smiled. I confuse nothing, even if you overestimate your abilities. For the time being, I believe our goals may line up. If this is the case, as I previously mentioned, we may both be able to achieve what we desire. Of course, you have no obligation to hear me out. Just be aware that I guard my investments very closely. Misstep, and we will have a true problem. Our cordial conversation is over. If you wish to treat with me, then say such.


    The stone covering Vex released him. Water rushed up to catch him, righting the man before he could fall. It slipped up through his pant legs and vanished. Vex glowered at Yamish.


    Speak, Vex said, crossing his arms. I will hear you out.

 Chapter 59: Ill winds

    Chapter 59: Ill winds


    In the week that followed the tournament, Chance finally dedicated time to learning the technique in the book that Pete had gotten for him. It only took a grand total of two days to read through it  the technique was a series of patterns to put his Essence through that would manifest it in a precise way.


    That was the way the book described it, at least. From his testing, Chance realized that the application wasnt exactly as cut and dry as it had appeared to be. The technique was, forck of a better word, stiff. There was no flexibility to it, and it felt almost as if he were borrowing somebody elses ability.


    The technique was simple. It just allowed him to imbue his urumi with Essence, empowering its attacks. But, the more Chance practiced it, the more he felt like it didnt work properly. It wasnt quite the feeling hed gotten during the tournament, as that had felt like something was missing. This was more like he was trying to eat soup with a fork.


    Before the week was out, hed already memorized the most important parts of the book. Whatever had helped him learn thenguage seemed to be applying here too, and he had little difficulty remembering the contents of the technique manual. Unfortunately, that did little to actually make it feel like it fit.


    Chance ran his concerns past Pete at the end of the week. He found his mentor sitting in therge, cushioned chair in the living room, where he typically took up residence when he wasnt out on a job. The older man gave him an understanding smile when Chance had finished running through his problems.


    Thats quite natural, Im afraid, Pete said. If you recall, I mentioned that you shouldnt make your own techniques for quite some time. Thats because it requires a very detailed understanding of your Essence and how it functions. When you use a technique, youre following in the path of someone with a simr Essence to you, but they had enough understanding to make a technique. The benefit is a powerful skill, but the drawback is that it isnt truly <em>your </em>skill.


    I dont know how I didnt realize that. It doesnt work because the person who made this technique views Karma differently than I do, so it doesnt feel natural to use my Essence like this, Chance realized. Crap. I should have asked you days ago. I just wasted so much time trying to figure out what I was doing wrong.


    Practice is never wasted. Getting a better understanding of how this technique works will still aid you when ites time for you to make your own, Pete advised. He rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. And, typically, techniques are far more interesting than the one I was able to find for you. Its just that theres so little avable here for Karma cultivators. Your lot are a very secretive  or rare  bunch. Im not sure which. Im just sorry I couldnt find something more interesting for you.


    Dont apologize. This is perfect, Chance said. Knowledge is a lot more valuable than some random technique, and Ive got so much to work on right now that I dont think its a huge loss. Ill just focus on cultivating and my main skills, since the technique was basic enough that I think Ive already got it under wraps.


    A wise n, Pete said, bidding Chance farewell as he set out.


    It had been several days beyond the time Baba had told him shed need, so he took a break to swing by her store and pick his vials of pills back up. Shed helpfullybeled all of them, going so far as to spell everything out phically to help him read them.


    It wasnt needed as hed already gotten a very firm grasp of the writtennguage, but Chance appreciated it anyway. He thanked her and promised to return at ater date before returning back to his room to look through his earnings.


    To his delight, almost half of the vials were cultivation aids. From the look of them, they were better than the ones hed been buying thus far. A vial of blue cultivation aids stuck out to him from the others. Baba had marked it with a plus, so they were probably even better than the rest. That probably meant it would be best to save those for as long as possible.


    In addition, there were several other misceneous vials of pills. One wasbeled <em>monster repents</em>, which was fairly self-exnatory. Among the others were more healing pills as well as one vialbeled <em>Purification </em>with just four pills in it and a vial with just a single,rge white pill. Thetter was marked as <em>Enlightenment.</em>


    Pete was cooking dinner when Chance found him to ask about the pills. His eyes nearly bugged out of his head when he saw the contents of the final vial, and he nearly dropped his kitchen knife.


    You need to put that away immediately, Pete said, sping Chances hands back over the pill to hide it from view. He nced around, even though they were within the safety of the Whiteheart house. That pill is worth more than the rest of your earningsbined  and thats understating it. When youre at a bottleneck in your cultivation, you can take that to break through, though those words hardly do such a pill much justice.


    Chance hurriedly put it away. Like what youre at now?


    Petes gaze sharpened. Yes, Chance. And dont even consider offering it to me. Im a failed old man. Even if I were able to push forward another rank, it would do nothing in the long run. That pill is for someone with <em>potential. </em>Never give it away. Do you understand?


    Chance swallowed and nodded. He couldnt deny that hed been about to offer it to Pete. After all, the older man was having difficulty reaching the next stage, and he had no such problem. The impurity pills werent going to be of any use to him either. Yes. Ill keep it for myself.


    Pete sighed and shook his head. He patted Chance on the shoulder and picked the knife back up, returning to chopping the strange, brittle-skinned vegetable on the cutting board. They must have really seen a lot of potential in you if that was your reward. I dont believe its anywhere nearmon. Yeo showed me his gains a day ago, and he didnt get one. Perhaps it was the new prize for first ce, but I cant imagine theyd waste such a rare pill every time there was a Squire tournament.


    The Old Citys words bubbled up unbidden in Chances head.


    <em>Lower rank Shikari are just fodder for the ones that truly rule the city. Why would they give a disposable soldier a useful item?</em>


    Chance buried the questions. They would be good to address when he got strong enough to ask them. For now, the most important thing he could do was survive whatever was brewing between Yamish and the Old City.


    The next few days passed quietly. Be returned with Wren early one morning, but she darted up to her room so quickly that Chance didnt even get a chance to say hello. He was left standing on the porch beside Wren, staring at her disappearing back in befuddlement. Wrenughed at the quizzical look on his face.


    She found much inspiration from studying with my master, Wren said. But she could not cultivate until he was done teaching, so she needed to act quickly in order to avoid losing inspiration.


    That makes sense. Did it go well?


    Only she can decide, Wren said with a small shrug. But she seemed to believe so. How have your own studies gone?


    Neither good nor bad, Chance admitted. Im making progress. Learned a new technique, but it doesnt really strike me.


    Essence mismatch, Wren said with a knowing nod. An unfortunate drawback of techniques. Some have it far more than others. The more unique your path, the harder it is to use others techniques.


    So Ive found, Chance said dryly. What about your technique? The one you used when we trained.


    Ah. Wren gave Chance an embarrassed grin. My master made that specifically for me. It fits my path perfectly.


    Wow. I didnt think about that being a thing, but it makes sense. Is that why your master didnt want you to use it?


    Precisely, Wren said. It was borrowed power, so to speak. I apologize for being unable to hold myself back.


    Weve already gone over this. It was a fantastic fight and theres nothing to apologize for, Chance said, waving his hand dismissively. Did you want to get to that sparring session we agreed on? Ive got some free time.


    s, I must depart. My schedule today is tight. Wren shook his head sadly. I was simply apanying Be back. We will have to have our spar another day.


    No worries, Chance said. Wren extended a hand, and he reached out to take it. As they shook, Wren pressed a small square into Chances palm. He opened his mouth, but something in Wrens eyes stopped him from speaking. Ill be seeing you, then.


    Yeah. Ill be seeing you, Wren said, holding Chances gaze for just a moment before turning and striding away.


    Chance stepped back inside the house, closing the door before hurrying up the stairs to his room. Only then did he allow himself to open his hand and look down at the small, folded paper that Wren had given him. He picked it apart to reveal a hastily written note.


    <em>My friend, ill winds are blowing. The eyes of several powerful cultivators have fallen upon your team. My master discovered that Be is at great risk due to her involvement with an exiled Shikari. Your performance at the tournament is receiving undue attention, and Yeo seems to have his own demons. It is almost as if someone assembled people that should not have gained attention into a single group intentionally. </em>


    <em>Regardless of the reason, Gleam is no longer safe for you. You are all in danger. I do not know how or from what, but I strongly suggest you leave for some time. Do not move immediately or suspicion may be cast onto my master. The city moves quickly, and you will soon be forgotten if you can remove yourself in time. Trust no one  not even me or my master. We maye under scrutiny and be forced toply with the city. Time is not your friend. </em>


    <em>Hoping for better times. </em>


    <em>Wren</em>


    Chance stared at the note, re-reading it several more times. Then he tore it up, crumpling the ribbons of paper into pieces. He looked around and, failing to find a good way to dispose of them, he crumpled them up and stuffed them into his mouth.


    <em>Thest thing I need is for the note to somehow get tied back to Wren. Also, still tastes better than monsters. Significantly better.</em>


    He didnt give himself time to think until no trace of the note remained. Chance swallowed, and it wasnt because he was still eating.


    <em>This is bad. </em>


    The world cracked and shifted around him, wooden floor turning to cracked cobblestone. Chance found himself standing in the Old City once again. Floating before him, right side up for once, was Yamish, and he didnt look happy.


    Evidently, things were about to get worse.

 Chapter 60: A clash of giants

    Chapter 60: A sh of giants


    Yamish, Chance said, putting on his best poker face. It took everything he had to not jump for his urumi. Instead, he gave Yamish what he hoped was an easygoing smile and raised a hand in greeting.


    You have been busy, Yamish said, floating closer to him. Your power has grown. Abnormal would not even begin to describe it. I witnessed your fights in the tournament. The abilities you showe from years of practice, and your cultivation has progressed far more than it should have.


    Well, I guess I kind of just got lucky. Chance forced augh, and he was proud to find that it almost sounded normal. Is that a bad thing?


    Strength is never bad, Yamish said. But even a genius would be hard pressed to grow such as you have on their own. You are not a genius, thus you have had help. What did you pay?


    Nothing.


    <em>As far as I can tell, that isnt even a lie. I guess the promise to Lucy is kind of a payment, but I havent paid it yet, so Im pretty sure it doesnt count. </em>


    Nothing? There is nothing in this universe that is free. Based on the amount of power you have gathered in a few short months, you simply do not understand the magnitude of what you have paid. And have you been abusing medicinal pills to gain a temporary boost? Foolish. The impurities will destroy your path.


    <em>Wait, he doesnt know that I have no impurities? I was starting to think he knew everything about me. </em>


    I have done no such thing, Chance said, hoping it was true. And I am not sacrificing my future any more than alternative paths would.


    Yamish tilted his head to the side. Then you are simply more of a fool than I believed. We will need to purge your body of impurities when the timees. I have invested too much in order to allow you to go to waste. Now,e. We hunt.


    Chance hid his sigh of relief and followed after Yamish. It didnt seem like the strange cultivator knew about his ns with the Old City. Everything was just going to continue as normal for the time being.


    But, as they walked through the cracked alleyways, the Essence inside Chances body prickled. It pressed against his skin in disapproval, filling his stomach with an uneasy churning energy. His pace slowed to a stop. Yamish paused and turned around, studying Chance curiously.


    We have not yet arrived.


    The prickling grew stronger, nudging and pushing at him more and more. The worst part was that Chance knew exactly what was causing it. His Essence was rebelling against the way he was choosing to handle the situation with Yamish and the Old City.


    No matter what kind of Karma Yamish cultivated, Chance had learned enough about his own to know that deceit didnt fall under its jurisdiction. It went against his path.


    <em>Come on. This is stupid. Yamish is probably trying to kill me. Hes basically said as much. Theres nothing wrong with lying to him. What am I supposed to do here? I dont have a choice. </em>


    The massive golden being that Chance had seen in his vision flickered in the back of his mind. Even though it was only his memory, the feeling washed over him like a warm nket. Chance pressed his lips together.


    <em>Goddamn it. This is what it means to be a cultivator, isnt it? To follow my ideals into the end, even if its a bloody terrible idea. Im totally going to get myself killed. </em>


    Lets drop the act, Chance said.


    Yamishs expression didnt change. He studied Chance, his featurespletely unreadable.


    I think you know more than youre letting on, Chance continued, hoping he wasnt digging his own grave but more than aware he might be wishing for a bit too much. Why are you training me, Yamish? The real answer. I know youre just a clone, and your true self has thousands of clones around the universe trying to get stronger. Is that what I am? A fancy pill?


    Yamish said nothing. He continued to watch Chance, as still as ice.


    Chances urumi flew to his hand and he pressed it against his chest. I wont be a resource, Yamish. Answer my question. Im done ying around  and, for that matter, what do you want with the Old City? Why are you here?


    What do you think your de can do you? Yamish asked, finally breaking his silence. You cannot kill me.


    Im well aware, Chance said. But if you really are raising me just to steal my powers or whatever, Im breaking my Gate. That means all my Essence will be wasted and you get nothing. Sure, youve helped me, but I have very strong suspicion to believe that every action youve taken has just been in your own favor.


    All beings act solely in their own favor.


    Not everyone, Chance snapped. Answer my questions, Yamish. What do you want with me? Because Ill die before I be a tool. I already had one life. This one is just a bonus, and its not going to be used to make things worse for other people.


    Their eyes locked, both unblinking as each tried to stare the other down. Several seconds of silence passed. A ripple passed through the ground beneath Chance and stone rose up, forming into a blobby figure.


    The Old City sides with you, Yamish said, his tone monotone.


    Chance hid his surprise. He hadnt expected the Old City to act at all after their previous conversation. He was nowhere near being able to beat Yamish. He probably couldnt even put up a fight.


    So it has, Chance said, swallowing. So? Whats it going to be?


    To his shock, a flicker of a smile passed over Yamishs face. He uncrossed his legs and stepped down to the ground, stretching his arms behind his head.


    You are far more than I ever expected, Yamish said with a soft chuckle. What resolve. It is only Karma for boldness like this to be repaid in kind. Very well. We may talk.


    His head snapped to the side with a crack. ck and gold Essence swirled around Yamish, pouring into his lips and wreathing his body like a pyre. His limbs twisted and warped like a piece of paper, folding themselves into new positions.


    Thest wisps of energy vanished down his gullet, and Yamishs eyes opened once more. One glowed a brilliant gold, while the other was as ck as the void. Time mmed to a halt and the shadowy alley shattered.


    Massive cracks spiderwebbed out from beneath Yamish, gouging the Old City. It groaned and stone rained around them as it struggled to remain in one piece. Yamish raised a single finger and a cold breeze rushed past them. The cracks snapped back shut and walls reassembled themselves. Chance wasnt sure how hed been spared from the destruction, but he was grateful for it.


    Yamishs eyes zed over for a few seconds before he finally turned his attention toward Chance. The pure force behind his eyes nearly sent him to his knees, but Chance grit his teeth and leaned against the Old Citys shoulder, refusing to fall.


    <em>This is him. The real Yamish. He can just take over his clones bodies? Thats unbelievably strong. </em>


    You are a curiosity. Yamishs words thrummed with enough power to tear the city apart, but they washed over Chance like water instead of crushing him to a paste. I see why my will was interested in you.


    You said youd answer my questions, Chance said.


    So I did. I will give you three. Ask. After that, we will decide your fate. My time does note for free.


    What do you want with me? Chance asked immediately.


    You were a curiosity. My fragment of will was told to seek power, and it appears you got involved. You were never the ultimate goal of this fragment, though it seems that you started to gain priority as time went on. At the moment, I am unsure if you are a liability to be removed or a benefit to be harvested.


    Second question. What do you want with the Old City?


    Yamish tilted his head to the side. Why do you care?


    Because I promised I would help it, Chance said. And it doesnt want to die or be enved any more than I do.


    I see. As I already stated, my fragment came here because I seek power. An awakened city is incredibly potent, even if its will has been shattered. Even for a cultivator of my strength, controlling the manifestation of Gleam would not be insignificant.


    Chances hand tightened around the hilt of his urumi. It wasnt like the de would do him much, but it felt good in his hand.


    Ask your final question, Yamish said.


    I dont have one.


    Nothing? No requests for insight into Karma? You can ask any question you wish.


    Dont care, Chance said tly. Im not a toy for you to y with, and you dont have the right to harvest living beings. Its not right. As a Karma cultivator, you should know that.


    There are many types of Karma.


    And Ive seen yours. I know you cultivate Bnce, Chance said. But youre still the one choosing how to apply those principles. The universe doesnt make you do horrible things. You chose that yourself.


    Yamish didnt reply. The two cultivators stood against each other, their alternate views on the same Essence shing in the alley around them. Nearly a minute passed before Yamish spoke again.


    I have two questions for you. Then our conversation will end. What Essence do you believe you cultivate?


    Good Karma, Chance said without a second of hesitation. I want to bring happiness to people. Screw your bnce shit. Theres enough evil in the universe already. The only thing Im going to cultivate is good.


    Yamish inteced his fingers and ced his hands just below his stomach. What would your response be if I offer to spare your life in exchange for your aid in controlling the Old City?


    I would die trying to kill you.


    Yamish threw his head back andughed. It was strange,ing from the normally expressionless man. The echoes of his mirth bounced around the alley, setting Chances hair on end.


    Such conviction. I trust you know the Old City only attempts to use you for its own good?


    Im not aplete idiot. I know that. Im choosing to help despite that. I cant me anyone for trying to survive.


    Yamish blurred. He appeared directly in front of Chance, knocking the urumi from his hands. The de ttered across the ground and slid to a stop against a wall. The Old Citys rocky body lurched forward, lunging for Yamish.


    He raised his other hand, not ncing away from Chance, and a band of gold light looped around its chest and yanked it back.


    Your stupidity seems to be contagious, Yamish said. The city attempted to help you  well aware that it could do nothing against me.


    Thats the power of not being a raging asshole, Chance muttered, his eyes darting to the urumi on the ground. He swallowed and steeled his nerves. Make up your mind, Yamish.


    Oh, I already have, Yamish said. He raised a pointed finger and pressed it against Chances chest. It cut clean through his clothes and drew a pinprick of blood just above his heart. I have a final offer for you, Chance. Be my student in true.


    Chance blinked. What?


    You hold to your convictions stronger than cultivators ten times your age. It would be a waste to snuff your talent out here. I offer you my true teachings rather than the scraps you have received thus far.


    Chance swallowed. Of all the ways hed pictured today going, this certainly wasnt one of them. What about the Old City?


    Yamishs eyes followed his gaze. I will free it. In exchange, it will bind to you. There will be no death. An ideal solution, yes?


    Chance gave a shaky nod. That <em>did </em>sound better than the alternatives.


    Just checking, if I say no to the teacher thing


    I will leave. I do not need to use threats to find a student, Yamish said. But you will never get an opportunity such as this again. If you truly desire to enforce the ideals that you preach, then you need power. Can you afford to pass it up?


    Several seconds passed. The two cultivators stared at each other, their Essence shing through their eyes in a battle of convictions and will.


    You drive a hard bargain, Chance said. I ept, provided the Old City does too.


    They both turned to the craggy humanoid figure. Itcked facial features, but after a short pause, it gave them a jerky nod.


    Yamish ran his finger down Chances chest, leaving a thin cut behind. He ended it in a small circle just above his navel. Chance could feel foreign Essence burning in the marking, and it quickly healed over and formed into a pale scare.


    I greet you as Teacher, Yamish said, stepping back. This fragment will not be able to hold my full will much longer. I will assign you your first task. You may not refuse.


    <em>I really hope this wasnt a mistake. </em>


    What is it?


    Your teammate Be is going to die to a Shikari soldier very shortly, and the order for the rest of your team to be taken into custody will go out within the day. Take care of the problem however you see fit.

 Announcement & Chapter 61: Tracks

    Announcement & Chapter 61: Tracks


    What? Chance eximed. Send me back right now!


    That would be a good way to kill you, Yamish said. He pointed a long finger at the Old Citys golem. Bind with the boy. He would likely prefer you do it quickly.


    The craggy humanoid lurched forward and extended a hand. Rubble rained down from it and fingers grew more defined in the rock until the hand reaching out toward Chance was nearly as detailed as his own. Repressing his impatience, Chance took the Old Citys hand in his own.


    A spike of Essence surged into his palm and shot to his Gate like a bullet. He drew in a sharp breath and staggered, but the Old City didnt release its grip on his hand. The feeling passed a few secondster, leaving Chance with a powerful throbbing ache in the center of his chest.


    The golem melted back into the ground, falling to rubble before it could sink fully beneath Gleams surface.


    Now? Chance asked desperately.


    There are still a few minutes before your adversary will arrive, Yamish said. Do you truly think you can rush into fighting a trained Shikari with no preparation whatsoever?


    What preparation do I possibly have time for? I need to warn Be!


    You have time for information, Yamish said. Do you not think I might know some of their capabilities, given that I know they are approaching?


    I  uh, doesnt that go against some rule about helping me or something? Because it isnt fair?


    Yamish snorted. Fair? I believe my fragment already told you of fairness. It does not exist beyond what we create ourselves. Your opponent is a Rank Three cultivator. His name is Alliet, and he follows the path of Heat. Though he hides it well, his right leg is still injured from a job he took several weeks ago. Target it. If that fails, his family lives in the Rose district. He has a three-year old daughter named Malty, and a Rank One cultivator spouse named Ashkon.


    Chance opened his mouth, then let it snap shut. Did you just tell me about his family? What use is that?


    Yamish cocked his head to the side. Threaten to kill them. Actually kill them. Do what you will. I am simply providing you information. Now, think. What else may you need? You have one minute to safely deliberate.


    Chance pursed his lips, immediately dismissing Yamishs suggestions. He wasnt going to go around threatening children or people that werent involved in the fight. That was wrong on more levels than one.


    What weapons does he use?


    Short sword.


    Do you happen to know how hes going to enter the house?


    Likely through the girls window, Yamish said, stretching his fingers out. There is also a possibility he attempts to burn down the house after throwing it into a Ward.


    Okay. And I dont suppose you could just take care of him for me?


    Yamish smirked. No. If I were to take direct action here, it would draw some of the other, more overzealous cultivators to intervene. Handle this on your own, or you are not worthy of being my apprentice.


    Okay, Chance said, smoothing his damaged shirt out. Right. Send me back. Ive got a n.


    The world vanished, and Chance was in his room once again. The surprise onlysted for a moment before he scrambled out of his room, nearly smashing through his door in the process. He mmed his fist on Bes door.


    Be! Let me in?


    Chance? Be asked from the other side. Give me a second.


    No time! Let me in now!


    Sheesh, Iming, Be called. Her feet scuffed across the ground and the door cracked open. Whats going on? I was in the middle


    Chance shoved her to the side and dashed inside the room. Assassin!


    I  what?


    He rushed over to the window and his bracelet snapped out into its urumi form. Chance drew on his Essence, filling the air around him with golden mist. It churned throughout his body, infusing every part of him that it could. He drew it into himself, then crouched and made himself as small as possible in the corner of the room.


    No time to exin, Chance said, his eyes narrow as he watched the window. Dont stand in the middle of the room. Move to the side.


    Be gaped at him, then took a baffled step to the side. The movement saved her life. A thick pir of me melted clean through the window in an instant, jetting into the room like aser cutter. Chance staggered back, his eyebrows singed, as the Essence screamed past his face.


    The beam of fire sputtered out and a scarred hand reached over the edge of the windowsill. A thin man pulled himself up, a smoking pipe clenched between his teeth. His eyes fell on Be, who had fallen to her backside to avoid the spell.


    Sorry, kid, he said, snapping his fingers. A spark of fire bloomed above them. Just doing my job.


    Chances urumi whistled through the air. Alliets hand thumped to the floor. He nced down at his stump, shock blocking the pain as his mind rushed to catch up with what had happened. He reacted with impressive speed, spinning toward Chance and bringing a me to bear in his other hand.


    Chance was faster. The hilt of his urumi crashed down on the mans head with a loud thunk. He staggered back, cursing. Chance swung the de again, harder this time. It connected in the same location and Alliets eyes rolled back up into his head as he crumpled to the ground.


    Cursing to himself, Chance dropped to the ground beside him. He tore a strip from the mans shirt and bound it as quickly as he could. It wasnt much, but it wasnt exactly easy to stop the flow of a missing limb. Be scrambled over to join Chance and pressed a hand to the mans wrist. Ice crept over it, sealing the wound shut.


    Thanks, Chance breathed. He pushed himself to his feet. We need to get out of here. Right now.


    Here? The city?


    Yes. Wren warned me when he dropped you off, and I got another message from someone else, Chance said, somewhat unconvincingly. Youre wanted by the Shikari for some reason, and the rest of us are too.


    Bes eyes widened. Chance expected a few questions, but he got nothing of the sort. Instead, Be darted over to her bed and pulled out a backpack and a robe. She threw the robe over herself, covering her face, and slung the bag over her shoulders.


    You have a go-bag?


    Never know when you need to run, Be said grimly. Just wasnt expecting to have to do it so quickly. Are you sure youre in danger too?


    Yes.


    They both spun as Yamish floated through the smoking hole in the side of the building. He nced down at the unconscious man, then clicked his tongue.


    Sloppy. Hell know you survived. It would have been wiser to burn the house down and pretend you all died.


    Pass, Chance said.


    Then youll have even less time for the next part, Yamish said. Leave Gleam. You will not survive if you remain, unless you hide within the Old City for many months. The Shikari will not be actively hunting you yet.


    What about Yeo? Chance asked, letting his urumi snap back around his wrist in its bracelet form. Hes in danger too, isnt he?


    Another has already imed him, Yamish said.


    Chances eyes narrowed. What does that mean?


    He will have guidance, Yamish replied. Which will be more than you have, if you fail to escape this city before the Shikari apprehend you.


    The door mmed open behind them. Pete charged into the room and dashed between Chance and Yamish, raising his hammer. Get back, kids! Run!


    Yamish snapped his fingers and a band of gold energy wrapped around Petes waist. He was yanked back out the door and down the stairs before he could say another word.


    The old man is not hurt, Yamish said before Chance could say anything. Begin the second part of your task. I will give no further aid until you escape the city.


    Then Yamish was gone. Be and Chance stared at the space where he had been floating instants before.


    Who is that, Chance? Be asked carefully. Because hes <em>very </em>powerful. I couldnt even feel his cultivation level.


    My teacher, Chance said hesitantly. And also my stalker and possible predator. Not entirely sure. Hes kind of helping, though. You would have been dead if he didnt warn me.


    Be swallowed and gave him a curt nod. Yeah. Thanks for that, Chance. And you as well, great cultivator. If he says we need to get out of Gleam, then we should go now. The city is huge.


    Chance nodded. What about Pete? We need to tell him whats going on.


    Right on que, the old man charged up the stairwell and skidded into the room, breathing heavily. His eyes darted around. Whered the cultivator go?


    Hes not an enemy, Chance said. But were in trouble, Pete. The Shikari seem to think we did something that we didnt. They sent an assassin.


    Petes hands tightened around the shaft of his hammer. After children?


    Dont ask me, but we dont have time to exin anything else. Im sure the Shikari will put something out soon enough, and we cant be around when that happens, Chance said.


    Pete gave him a curt nod. Move. Ill cover your tracks. I wont see another one of my teams die. I dont know what you kids have gotten yourselves caught up in again, but be careful. Whatever that cultivator was, hes not to be trifled with. Hes a Lord rank at the minimum. Possibly higher. I couldnt sense the limits of his power.


    Well be as safe as we can, Chance promised. He poked his head out of the still-smoking hole where the window had been. Maybe we should leave this way? Someone might be watching the front door.


    Be nodded. Good idea. Do you have a panic bag? If not, well need to put one together before we leave the city. You wont survive long without supplies outside of Gleam.


    Ive got some in my room. We can stop by a shop somewhere on the way out, Chance said. He dashed back to his room and grabbed the box of his winnings from the tournament. He stuffed it full of sets of clothes from his closet, then sprinted back to rejoin Be and Pete.


    Gibson will be here shortly to investigate what happened. Petes lips pressed thin. You need to be gone before he arrives. If anyone has ess to orders of the local Shikari, it would be him. He might even know about the order. Be careful, kids. Get to one of the local viges near Gleam first. Its your only real chance of safety outside the citys walls.


    Well be back, Be promised. Just after this is all cleared up.


    She leaped out the hole in the window, sliding down the side of the house and dropping to the alley outside it.


    Thank you, Chance said. This is the first ce Ive been able to call home in a while. Be is right. Well be back, I promise. Take care of yourself.


    He jumped after her andnded on the ground with a thud. Be helped him up and they slipped out into the streets, walking swiftly but with purpose to avoid any suspicion. Pete watched them from the Whiteheart house, then turned back and strode away to cover as many of their tracks as he could.

 Chapter 62: Overwhelming

    Chapter 62: Overwhelming


    Its at least twelve hours of travel to the nearest wall, Be said over her shoulder as they walked. We need to find some form of transportation that isnt through the Shikari if we want to make it out before nightfall.


    Chance nced into an alley at the side of the busy street. Considering Yamish had just shown himself to Be for the second time, he was pretty sure that all bets were finally off. He grabbed Bes hand and pulled her into the alley. It came to a dead end just a few feet in, making it little more than a small cubby between buildings.


    What are you doing? Be asked, sending a concerned frown Chances direction. This doesnt lead toward the exit.


    I know a shortcut, Chance replied. He nced over his shoulder to make sure nobody was watching them, then rapped his knuckles on the wall while Be stared at him as if hed gone mad.


    The stone rippled and clicked apart as a path into the Old City formed. Bes mouth dropped open. Chance dragged her into the shadows and kept an eye on the alley until the stone built itself back over the exit, sealing them inside.


    Chance? Be asked carefully. Where are we? Whats going on? This looks a lot like the area that the Soothounds wereing out of back in the Rose district. The really creepy one.


    The Old City, Chance replied, leaning against a wall and sighing. Were safe here. From the Shikari, that is.


    Be squinted into the darkness, then looked up at the churning purple mist covering the sky above them. I dont think Ive ever set foot in a ce that was any less weing. Youre sure its safe here?


    Well, safe might be a rtive term, Chance said. His urumi slithered into his hand. Watch out for Soothounds. There are a lot of those here.


    It <em>is </em>the same ce!


    Yeah. Its the Old City, Chance said. Come on. We need to move, right? Old City, could you take us somewhere near the edge of Gleam? We need to get out for obvious reasons. I assume you saw our conversation with Yamish.


    The alley rippled, and a new path formed itself into one of the walls. As the damaged bricks shifted around, a Soothound yelped as it was shoved out into the alley and promptlyunched into the darkness by a springboard made of shingling. Its howl slowly faded into the distance, vanishing as the Old City swallowed it.


    The stones beneath Chance and Bes feet rippled slightly, pushing them forward. Be stumbled and shot a nce down at the ground.


    You cant be serious.


    Deadly, Chance replied, trying to sound more confident than he felt. Its helping us. Come on.


    They set off. Bes head remained on a swivel as they walked, and she jumped into a fighting stance at every single faint noise or echo that passed through the dark alleys. Chance couldnt me her. He still remembered how it felt when hed first arrived in the Old City. A shiver ran down his spine.


    The ground rippled beneath his feet again, and he caught a glimpse of a small smiley face on a stone in front of him before it faded away again.


    <em>Great. Its developing a sense of humor. </em>


    I think my teacher has basically given me permission to tell you a little more, Chance said as they walked. This is the thing Ive been keeping secret.


    When you say your teacher


    The floating cultivator at the Whiteheart house.


    The one that terrified Pete and is a Lord rank at the minimum?


    Yeah. I dont really know much about how strong cultivators get at those higher ranks, but Im pretty sure hes way beyond just Lord rank. That wasnt his real body, it was just a fragment of his will that he was controlling.


    What have you gotten yourself into, Chance? Be asked, staring at him with wide eyes. Do you realize how dangerous he is? You arent being forced to do anything against your will, are you?


    Chance chuckled. I know exactly how dangerous he is, and while I havent had a lot of choice up until now, Im not being forced to do anything. Yamish has been helping me in one way or another since I arrived. You remember I didnt know anything about Gleam when I got here, right?


    Yeah. You slept through Be trailed off, then pped herself in the forehead. You didnt show up in the normal summoning area, did you?


    I showed up here, Chance said, patting one of the crooked building walls as they passed it. In the Old City. I got stuck in it for weeks.


    And its all like this?


    A Soothound leaped at them from a small crook in the alley, but a pir of stone jutted up and sealed its path off. The monster thumped against the stone, then scraped piteously at the rock, unable to pass by it.


    Just a bunch of dark alleys.


    How did you survive?


    Chance nodded to a tiny trickle of stale water running down the edge of one of the buildings lining their path. A tiny puddle had formed in the cracks around it. I drank that and ate Soothounds. There were a lot of them. Not very filling, though.


    Be stopped walking. Chance nced back at her.


    What?


    You <em>ate </em>Soothounds?


    Look, I didnt have much of a choice, Chance said through a grimace. It wasnt like I wanted to. Do you see any other food around here?


    Chance, that isnt possible. The Essence inside monsters is almostpletely impure. Theres no possible way any human could eat one and not die a very painful death. Especially not one from Earth. Maybe if you went through a veryplicated regimen to prepare your body and remove impurities to survive the process, sure. But just eating a monster? Thats insane.


    Chance cleared his throat. Right. About that. I dont have any impurities.


    Be started tough, then stopped when she realized Chance was serious. Her face darkened and she took a small step back.


    Youre not from Earth either, then? Who are you, Chance?


    What? No. Im from Earth.


    Then how do you have no impurities? Thats literally impossible. Everyone has them, and people from Earth have so much that it normally cripples their cultivation.


    Thats an entirely different secret, Chance muttered. Im starting to realize Ive got a lot of them, and I dont think this one is mine to share. Lets just say I got lucky and someone helped me get rid of my impurities.


    Be shook her head slowly and they started walking once more. Okay. So your impurities were gone before you arrived on Gleam. How long were you prepared to enter this ce, then?


    I wasnt. I died on Earth and got sent here. There was no preparation.


    You cant be serious. You arrived on Gleam and had to survive for weeks on end off dead monsters and stale water?


    Well, the monsters werent dead. I had to kill them. But yes.


    You <em>fought </em>Soothounds? Right after arriving? Chance, Im so sorry. That must have been horrible. Centurion hasnt been kind to you at all, has it? New arrivals are supposed to be slowly eased into this world, but it sounds like you were left to drown. That isnt how things should be.


    Its fine, Chance said with a shrug. I survived, right? Im lucky.


    Unlucky might be more urate, Be muttered. After all of that, you got thrown on to a team with me. Gods, and I treated you like an outcast right after you escaped this ce, didnt I? How soon did you get to the Whiteheart house after leaving the Old City?


    Uh about a day, maybe? I passed out, then Gibson brought me to the Whiteheart house.


    Be groaned and ran a hand through her hair. Im so sorry.


    Its fine. Theres nothing to apologize for. We both know why you were acting like that. It wasnt out of any mean spirit.


    Yeah, but


    It hardly matters now anyway, Chance said. They turned a corner into yet another nearly identical alleyway and Chance let out a relieved sigh. It feels good to finally get this off my chest, though. I dont like keeping secrets.


    I can see why you did. I assume you ran into your teacher somewhere in this ce?


    Yeah. He said that I couldnt tell anyone about him, so I couldnt let you or Yeo know any more than I did. I wasnt sure how strict hed be about enforcing that.


    I almost feel like I should share something in response, but you already know about Vex, Be muttered, rubbing her arm. Is there anything else? Just to get all the surprises out of the way now.


    I think thats the most important parts, Chance said. The Old City will help us, and Im pretty sure time flows differently here. Well, its that or space is messed up. Either way, we can move faster through it than if we were walking outside. I think we should be able to reach the edge of the city quickly.


    A circle appeared on one of the walls and Chance pointed at it. See?


    Thats a circle.


    Oh, thats how the Old City says yes, Chance said. It can talk.


    Right, Be said. Youre sure you didnt miss anything important? The <em>city </em>talks to you?


    Yeah. Its aware, Chance replied. He paused for a moment. Please keep that to yourself. I think it would be bad news if information about it spread.


    I dont think anyone would believe me if I told them half of what you just told me, Be grumbled. But I wont spill anything, dont worry. Just lead the way, I guess. And dont forget we need to stop by a store before we leave to get you some supplies. Ive got enough food for a few days, but just for one person. It wontst us long split between the two of us.


    Chance nodded. You heard that, right?


    Another circle appeared on the wall to their side, and the path shifted slightly before them once more. There was nothing left to do but walk  so that was what they did. After all, there were only so many secrets one could share in a day before things got just a bit too overwhelming.

 Chapter 63: Hound

    Chapter 63: Hound


    Yeo was having a particrly bad day. Hed barely made any progress in his cultivation the night before, and he woke with an annoying tweak in his side. Whenever he tried to practice any of his techniques, nothing felt like it came as smoothly or naturally as it had before.


    After several hours of fruitless practice, he threw his hands up and stuffed his weapons back into his belt. For once, he couldnt bring himself to practice any longer, so he headed out to Hounds.


    His favorite booth near the back was already taken, so he flopped into one of the hard chairs and covered a yawn as he scanned through the menu. The restaurant was busier than normal, and it took nearly ten minutes just for the waitress to realize that he was there. She hurried over, handing him a menu and giving him an embarrassed smile.


    Sorry. I didnt realize youd sat down.


    Its fine. I was distracted anyway, Yeo replied, refusing the menu with a shake of his head. Dont need that though. Ill have the blueberry pancakes.


    The waitress winced. Sorry. Were out of flour. And blueberries.


    Yeo scrunched his nose. Figures. Uh the Golden Skewers then? Those sound interesting.


    Of course. Ill have those right out, she promised. The waitress turned toward the kitchen just as another waiter passed by her carrying a pot of tea and a dozen cheese pastries on a tter. He jerked to a halt to avoid the waitress and the tea and pastries pitched off the tter, sshing Yeo. A pastrynded square on his chest and slid down, leaving a trail of cheese.


    The waiter and waitress eyes grew to the size of a goldfishs and they scrambled to apologize, grabbing a napkin and wiping Yeo off as he sat there, a bemused expression on his face.


    Im so, so sorry, the waitress said for what was probably the fiftieth time. She patted pointlessly at his chest with her napkin, not doing much more than smearing the cheese even more.


    At least the tea wasnt scalding, Yeo replied with a grin. He gently took the napkin from her hands. How about that food? Dont worry about my clothes. Ive gotten them dirtier when training.


    The waitress swallowed and nodded, darting off to the kitchen. The rest of the restaurant, many of whom had been watching the exchange with undisguised amusement, finally turned their attention back to their own food.


    Yeo tossed the soiled napkin onto the table and drummed his fingers on the wood. He could practically feel Chances wordless approval. A tinyugh slipped out of his lips before he could stop it. Only Chance would be proud of someone for getting food spilled all over them and not getting angry.


    A shadow fell over his table, and he nced up. A white haired Shikari stood over him.


    Jorgin? Yeo asked. Funny seeing you here, but Im not getting a good feeling from it. Whatever you think I did, I probably didnt do it.


    No, Jorgin replied, sitting down across from Yeo. A faint chill danced over Yeos skin and his eyes narrowed. All the sound from the diners had vanished. He nced to the side, but he already knew what he would find. Everyone was gone. Hed gotten pulled into a Ward, but he hadnt even felt it.


    Yeo locked eyes with Jorgin as the mans eyes changed, turning the pale blue of cold winter ice. Yeo sighed and nodded down to his clothes. Do you really have to do this today? Im clearly a little busy.


    Now is not the time for your buffoonery. There are serious matters unfolding. Perhaps I was overzealous with your team assignment.


    Did you kill Jorgin? Yeo asked, tapping a finger on the table to the beat of a silent song in his ear. I kind of liked him. I hope you didnt.


    The Shikari is perfectly fine. I am simply borrowing his body with the aid of another Cultivator.


    I was going to ask about that. I didnt remember you having any shapeshifting or body control abilities. He wont remember this then, right? If so, mind handing me a gold or two from his purse? He wont miss them.


    Enough, Jorgin growled. There is no need to keep the act up when its just the two of us. It grates on my nerves.


    Yeos face ttened. Id really rather not. What do you want? What does this have to do with my team?


    The Preservation cultivator was deeply involved with Vex.


    Yes, Im aware. I was under the impression that we wouldnt be having any more trouble from him. Yeo examined his fingernails and licked a speck of cheese that had escaped his attention off them. He grimaced. It was too salty.


    The impression was wrong. He hase to Gleam.


    Thats problematic, but I hardly see how it necessitates a visit. I thought we were pretty clear about not talking until the Shikari saw me as a Knight. Youre really ruining my fun here, you know.


    Forget your fun. Vex has partnered with the Bncer, and Yamish is here.


    Yeos eye twitched. What? Yamish is <em>helping </em>Vex? Thats bad. Even if its just a clone.


    Jorgin shook his head grimly. Not the clone. The true Yamish was in Gleam. He is aiding Vex for the sole purpose of exiling Be and his student.


    Yeo couldnt stop the surprise from washing over his face. Impossible. He was teaching Chance.


    He considers this teaching. Yamish cares nothing for the lives of anyone else, and you are now caught in their idiocy. The Shikari will being for you shortly. Yamish has assured me that the trouble will onlyst for several months, but it is imperative that you do not get caught. I am loathe to y my hand at this point, so I would prefer to avoid aiding you if possible.


    Yamish has  wait. You were talking to Yamish?


    He was the one who aided me in temporarily taking this body.


    Why are <em>you </em>working with Yamish? Yeo demanded. Does he know?


    He knows much. I do not know how much. I do not care. He has no interest in you beyond what Chance does. Jorgin pressed his lips together and shoved a finger into Yeos chest. I trust you can see the urgency of this matter. The Shikari have sent an assassin to kill Be and Chance. It is likely that there is oneing for you as well.


    Shit, Yeo cursed, jumping to his feet and pping his palms against the table. When? Where?


    They are not your concern. Yamish has mandated that you avoid interfering with this. He sees it as training for Chance.


    Yeo bit his lower lip and lowered back into his seat. What a pain. Things were just starting to get exciting. Youre sure everything will be fine in a few months? If I have to start all over in another city, Im genuinely going to be furious.


    I do not believe Yamish was lying, Jorgin said with a small shrug. Nobody can know for sure. Yamish cares for nothing but his own goals. Vex was a fool to abide by any terms he set.


    Says the person using one of Yamishs techniques to puppet a body.


    Jorgin winced. It was a favor for Chance, from what he said. I shudder to think who had to pay the toll for that favor. I trust it will not be wasted on you.


    Yeo sighed. Yeah. I got the picture, Sensei. Illy low and then regroup with Chance and Be when they return. Man, this is going to be so boring.


    You could always take it as an opportunity to gain some solo training for your Metal path. I saw you in the tournament, by the way. Very impressive.


    Thanks. I think Im finally getting the hang of it. Much cooler than your stupid path.


    Idiot. Youll use my <em>stupid path </em>if you have any ns of surviving the assassin, Jorgin said, rolling his eyes. He rose to his feet. I will leave. We have spent time enough. Deal with the assassin and escape. I need to return this body. I trust you will be safe?


    Yeo snorted, not bothering to answer the question. Jorgin shook his head and strode out of Hounds. The Ward dropped a few momentster, and sound rushed back into the diner. Yeos waitress nced at him, still wearing a shameful expression on her face.


    Sorry, Yeo said. Pulled into a Ward. Some Soothound was walking around in the area. Got dealt with before I could even find it.


    You shouldnt be the one apologizing, the waitress said. I talked to my manager, and hell be putting your meal on the house today. Ill go get it for you.


    Thats sweet. Thank you. Yeo beamed at her, and she shuffled off to go get a te of greasy skewers from the kitchen countertop. She brought it over to his table very carefully, taking each step with deliberate intention before she slowly lowered the food safely. Please enjoy. Sorry.


    She skittered away, but Yeo had already forgotten about her. He plucked one of the skewers from the te and popped it into his mouth, pulling every piece of meat off and revealing the wooden rod.


    The food was really quite good. Not as good as blueberry pancakes, though. Hed been craving those. He spun the skewer in his fingers and picked up another one, chewing thoughtfully.


    He cocked his head to the side and a faint shudder ran through his body. A grimace passed over his lips and he polished thest of the meat on his skewer off before rising and stepping away from his table.


    An electric current thrummed through Hounds, washing over Yeos body. He let it take him, and everyone vanished for the second time in a few minutes. The door shattered as a ck d man charged into the room, a jagged de in each of his hands.


    If he was surprised to see Yeo already standing, he didnt show it. The man blurred toward him, ck energy covering his weapons as he swung them toward Yeos neck, aiming to end him with a single blow.


    Yeo leaned back, allowing the des to pass just over his nose. The wind from their passing rustled his hair. His hand slipped into his coat pocket and he pulled out a thin ck handle. It unfurled, transforming into a slender de.


    The assassin shed at Yeo again, raising his other sword defensively to deflect Yeos counterattack. Yeo shifted to the side and the de carved past his cheek, leaving a thin line of blood along it.


    No ng ever came from his sword striking his opponents. Instead, there was a wet squelch. The assassin stared down in disbelief at the de protruding from his heart. The de of his sword ttered to the ground, cut into two clean pieces.


    Yeo pulled the de from the man with no resistance. As it left, life slipped from the assassins eyes. His skin dried and grew taut, and he crumpled to the ground without a single drop of moisture left in his withered corpse.


    The de folded back into the hilt and Yeo tucked the strange weapon back into his pocket.


    Forget Gleam. I hope Hounds lets me back in, Yeo muttered. I really liked this ce.


    The Ward copsed, its owner dead, and the door reshaped itself as people reappeared all around him. Yeo plucked another skewer from his te. By the time someone spotted the dead Shikari and the screaming started, Yeo was already stepping out of the door.


    Hopefully, there wouldnt be too many Shikari after him. This was going to put a serious ck mark on his burgeoning fame. Then again, perhaps it was for the best. Every truly famous person had at least one massive scandal lying under the carpet somewhere.


    He vanished into the crowded streets of Gleam, whistling to himself as the screams for helping from within Hounds grew louder.

 Chapter 64: Bonus Chap & Announcement!

    Chapter 64: Bonus Chap & Announcement!


    The Old City came to an abrupt stop, putting Be and Chance out into an alley cast in shadow. Just outside of it was a small, dingy shop. Shelves sparsely stocked with traveling gear sat behind a dirty window. A small candle flickered within a brokenmp, the me sputtering and dancing as wind threatened to put it out.


    Thats convenient, Be allowed, looking more than a little relieved as she set foot back in Gleams proper streets. Not the best looking store Ive ever seen, but it looks like theyre open.


    Lets be quick, then, Chance said. They crossed the empty street and entered the store. The door creaked loudly as they entered, announcing their arrival.


    An old man sat behind the counter, his nose buried in a book. He barely nced up as the two walked inside. The merchant muttered a halfhearted greeting and gestured at the shelves without turning his gaze.


    Be and Chance couldnt have asked for better service. They quickly went through the store, picking out old supplies from the shelves. Luckily, despite the stores appearance, his goods seemed to be fairly decent.


    Within a few minutes, theyd managed to find a ratty leather shoulder bag and stuff it full of supplies. Chance handed it to the merchant, who finally looked up. He nced at the bag, nose crinkled in annoyance at the interruption, and held up ten fingers.


    Chance put ten gold coins on the counter. He nced at them, then returned his attention to the book in a clear dismissal. Chance slung the bag over his shoulder and he slipped out of the store with Be, the door creaking once more as it closed behind them.


    Now we just need to get out of here, Be said. Ive got no idea where we are. I dont suppose your Old City can take us to the exit?


    Im sure it can. As far as I can tell, it can get us anywhere inside the city as long as were in the alleyways.


    They headed back into the alley that theyd arrived at the shop through, and the Old City swallowed them once more. This time, their walk was considerably shorter. By Chances guess, it was only around another hour of trudging through the musty, tight path before it spat them out into a small nook.


    The dull roar of chatter and the patter of thousands of people walking hit them like a truck the instant they stepped out of the Old City. Bes poked her head out of the alley, ncing around before ducking back inside.


    Were at one of the gates. Thats incredible.


    The Old City is pretty impressive when its not trying to kill you, Chance said. Is there anything we have to worry about at the gate? Are there guards or something?


    Of course there are, but not for the likes of us, Be replied. The guards are for powerful cultivators that threaten the city. I cant evenprehend how many peoplee in and out of Gleam every day. Theres no way they can check everyone, so they only bother with the strong ones. All we have to do is walk out.


    Thats it?


    Dont make it moreplicated than it has to be. Be grabbed Chances hand and strode confidently out of the alley, forcing him to jog for a few steps to catch up. They pushed into the crowd, not even drawing a single curious nce.


    Nobody cared what anyone else was doing in a group of this size. There were just so many converging paths and everyone was lost in their own thoughts that the other passersby turned into the background.


    Far above them, rising so high into the sky that Chance couldnt see the end of it, was an enormous stone wall. Massive runes covered it, flowing from one to the other without stopping. The wall cast a shadow as far as he could see, and there were dozens of outcroppings along the wall with entire houses jutting from them.


    The gate was really more of a hole than anything else. Though, calling it a mere hole would have been to do it a disservice. The crowd was so thick and full of things flying through the air above them that Chance couldnt make out what was beyond the gate aside from shadows.


    Be was right about the guards  there must have been thousands of them, mostly standing upon floating swords or tforms above the crowd. Their armor was elegant, made of a brilliant gold material that sparkled despite theck of light.


    The guards paid no attention to the crowd flowing toward the gate. Chance and Be blended into the horde of people. The back of Chances neck prickled, and he resisted the urge to nce over his shoulder every few steps.


    Even though he knew that the guards werent paying attention to them, he felt like every single one of them were staring straight at him. Looking around would have only brought more attention to them, though.


    He kept his head down, staring straight ahead as the crowd pushed them toward the exit. Before long, they were standing beneath the arch. Chance wasnt sure what hed expected to find on the other side of the gate. Giant, flowing fields could have worked. Perhaps massive, craggy mountains that stretched on as far as they eye could see.


    Anything, really. The one thing he hadnt expected to find was <em>nothing</em>. Hed thought that it was just difficult to see out, but when he and Be stepped under the arching wall far above them, there was absolutely nothing waiting for them on the other end of it.


    The archway above was several blocks thick, and the crowd split apart beneath, though arge portion of people just headed into the darkness and vanished.


    Be? Chance asked, yelling to be heard over the roar of the crowd. Wheres the way out?


    You cant just walk into Gleam, Be called back. I mean, you can, but not through the main gate. Come on!


    She grabbed his arm and pulled him toward the edge of the gate. They stepped into a long line leading up to arge row of guards sitting behind booths along the wall. Chance sent Be a confused look.


    Why are we talking to the guards?


    Theyre the gatekeepers, Be replied. Theyll give us a two-time use token that we can use to leave and enter Gleam. One use to leave, one to enter. Its how they keep the citys poption under control.


    Gleam is a lot of things, but I dont think under control is one of them, Chance said, stepping forward as the line shrunk. Despite the massive throng of people around them, it was shrinking at an impressive rate.


    Beughed. You should see what things are like outside of it. I guess you will. Just let me do the talking.


    Noints there.


    The line continued to shrink, and before Chance thought possible, the two of them were standing before a stern man. His golden helm covered arge portion of his face, but not enough to block the annoyed scowl stered across his features.


    Destination? the guard drawled, pulling two bronze disks the size of a fingernail from the air and fanning them out between his fingers. There will be a price incurred for transfer to any named location. There is also a fee for transferring to any of the other Great Cities.


    Just outside Gleam, please. Were only looking to explore.


    The guard grunted, and a tiny sh of light spun around the coins. He flicked them to Be and Chance. Your destination has been set. No charges have been incurred. Please step through the gate whenever you are ready. Do not obstruct traffic.


    Be and Chance strode away, heading toward the wall of darkness.


    Why didnt we just pay and go somewhere farther? Chance asked. He would have been worried about someone overhearing them had the crowds roar not been so loud. If hed wanted to, he could have taken credit for a dozen heinous crimes and not a single soul would have heard him.


    Theyd have a record of it, Be replied. I dont know how serious Gleam is going to be about this whole business, but we do not want to have any record of leaving. Make sure to keep in contact with me when we step out. Ive heard it can asionally put people in different spots. The Essence that Gleam uses to move people isnt the most urate.


    <em>Gee, thats reassuring. </em>


    They kept their grip on each others hands, slowing for a moment as the massive wall of nothingness drew up before them. There was no time to stand and stare in awe, though. Thousands of people were at their backs, and nobody was slowing.


    Without anywhere near the amount of preparation that he would have liked, Chance and Be stepped into the darkness and vanished. It was like plunging into a pool of freezing ink. Chance drew in a sharp, involuntary breath as liquid rushed into his mouth and nose, filling him before he could blink.


    Before he could even start to panic, it was gone. He stumbled, only kept from tripping by his training as his feet hit soft grass. A faint breeze rustled his hair. It carried the fresh scent of grass and some sweet fruit.


    They stood in arge field before a towering forest of thick trees. The shadow of Gleams massive walls still fell over them, making it just a little colder than Chance would have preferred. Surprisingly, despite all the people that had been at the gate, the area around them was nearly empty aside from a few others that milled about the edge of the forest.


    Where is everyone? Chance asked.


    Most people dont have any real reason to go right to the edge of Gleam. Everything of worth was already taken, and the Shikari have killed the strongest monsters in the area. I think some peoplee out here to train against anything that still lives in the woods, but thats about it.


    So how do people actually get into the city if they arenting through the gate?


    There are minor portals scattered around a lot of the smaller cities and viges, Be replied, setting off toward the forest. Our tokens will let us enter through those. Theres just no point to go through one of the main gates unless youre sitting around in the area just beside Gleam.


    Makes sense, Chance said. He adjusted the pack on his shoulder. He nced over his shoulder at Gleam. So how dangerous is this forest, then?


    Im not sure, Be admitted. Ive only been in it twice, and never for long. There shouldnt be anything too dangerous right beside Gleam, but well have to keep our guards up. Its this or Shikari, though.


    I think Ill take the forest.


    Likewise. Lets go, then. The sooner we get out of here, the less likely anyone remembers us.


    They headed off toward the forest, leaving Gleam and the Shikari behind them. As strange as it was to leave the city at his back, Chance knew that hed be back. And, when he did return, there would be karma in store for what Vex had done to him and his friends.

 Chapter 65: & Book 2 Start

    Chapter 65: & Book 2 Start


    The first three days of travel through the forest went far better than Chance had expected. After leaving Gleam behind together with Be, hed half expected to be under attack by monsters every few steps.


    Hed spend the first few hours beset by the terrifying forces of faint wind rustling the tree leaves and the crunch of sticks beneath their feet. Not a single monster hade after them. Like Be had predicted, the area around Gleam waspletely cleaned out and, as far as they could tell, safe.


    But, even after camping through several nights, the two of them hadnt encountered a single living creature. Now that the threat of the Shikari was lessening behind them, Chance couldnt help but start to appreciate the forests beauty.


    There was just enough room between the trees for the sun to shine down, warming their backs. It might have gotten close to ufortably warm had the canopy not cast shade over everything else, keeping the forest at afortable, slightly chilly, temperature.


    Of course, it was still a forest. Chance would have taken a real bed had the opportunity been avable to him, but he was far from suffering as they camped out beneath the lush trees and the glimmering purple stars peeking through above them.


    And, as he was starting to get used to, his peace came to an end at the hands of Yamish. Right at the dawn of the fourth day after leaving Gleam, as Chance and Be were packing up their meagre camp, Yamish appeared between them.


    He floated upside down, his elongated, sharp fingers inteced and his legs crossed. Chance cursed, his urumi flying to his hands before he realized who had arrived. He lowered the weapon, his heart thundering, and let out arge sigh. Be looked considerably less pleased at Yamishs arrival, which wasnt saying all that much.


    You scared the life out of me, Chance said, sitting down on a curved protrusioning from a nearby tree. The urumi slithered back around his wrist, returning to its purple, spiked bracelet form.


    Travelers should always be wary and prepared, Yamish said, rotating so that his head was right side up. You were not.


    Are you the real Yamish? Or the fragment of will?


    Both are real, but I am not here in my full capacity. You speak with the Yamish that you know most.


    Not to cause offense, but why are you here? Be asked, picking her bedroll up and sliding it into her bag without taking her eyes off Yamish. Is something wrong? Are the Shikari following us?


    I am not observing their attempts to locate you. It is possible that they near, and it is possible that you have been forgotten.


    Then why are you here? Are you going to give me more training? Chance asked.


    To give you your instructions for this trial. The Shikari will maintain the search in whatever capacity they see fit for a period of four months. You may use this time as you see fit. Your only goal is to avoid capture.


    You mean we could just camp in the forest the whole time? Chance asked. Not that Ive got any ns of doing that. The forest is nice, though.


    Do what you will, but remember: those who do not advance fall behind. Vex is among your pursuers, so I do not predict your oue will be enviable should you remain in such close proximity to Gleam.


    Bes face turned several shades paler. Seriously? Hes chasing me?


    He is an irritable child whose toy you have broken. He chases.


    Of course he does, Chance said. Lucky us. Thanks for the warning, Yamish. Is there anything else we should know?


    No. I have watched over you thus far, but no longer. This will be thest time we meet until the test is over. Do not fail to meet my expectations.


    Then he was gone as if he had never been there. One second Chance had been looking straight at him, and the second there was simply nothing. Be nced over her shoulder, then shuddered.


    That is terrifying. Nobody should be able to just appear and disappear like that. There should at least be some warning.


    Youre telling me. At least he isnt kidnapping you out of bed while youre trying to cultivate, Chance said. He finished packing his own supplies up and slung his travel pack over his shoulder. I suppose we should probably follow his advice and get out of here, though. Do you know how far away we are from the next city?


    Roughly a few days, but Im not certain, Be replied, checking the nearby trees until she found the marking shed left on it the night before so they could remember where theyde from. She spotted it and pointed in the opposite direction. That way. Its been a long time since I traveled through the forest, but its basically a straight path out.


    Chance only managed to take a single step before a sudden chill gripped his heart. He stumbled, grabbing onto a nearby tree to catch his bnce as the feeling rapidly grew in strength. Chance instinctively started to meditate, counteracting the cold by channeling Essence into his Gate.


    The spiked band around his wrist trembled and thin tendrils of ice worked their way through his body, slithering toward his extremities. Chance gritted his teeth, focusing even harder. He could dimly hear Be asking him something, but it didnt register.


    As quickly as the feeling had arrived, it vanished. The chill slithered out through his fingers and toes, and a gray mist floated out around him. His urumi snapped open on its own, flipping as it fell through the air before falling point-first into the ground with a thunk.


    Chance! Be yelled, grabbing him by the shoulders and giving him a rough shake. Snap out of it! Are you okay?


    Chance yanked Be back as the gray mist surged, but it didnt move toward them like hed thought it would. Instead, it funneled itself into the hilt of his urumi and down into the earth.


    The twigs beneath their feet hopped as a faint tremble rippled through the ground. Stone slithered beneath the dirt like a nest of snakes, gathering around the urumi and winding up it before clicking into ce. Be drew a dagger from her belt and lowered into a fighting stance. Your swords gone rogue.


    Wait, Chance said, putting a hand on her shoulder. I think its a friend.


    Stone continued to build itself, the seams melting away as each piece slipped up and merged with the growing statue. Within seconds, it resembled a young woman  mostly. Its eyes werent in line, and one of her ears protruded from the top of her head rather than its side.


    She also had about seven fingers too many on each hand, and they stuck out in every which direction. Stone eyelids slowly lowered in a blink and the girls rocky mouth ground open. Her jaw cracked loudly, and she rubbed her chin, pursing rocky lips in displeasure.


    Old City? Chance asked. Is that you?


    Unfortunately, the statue replied. Its voice was surprisingly high pitched for a stone, butpared to a human, it was still a few steps crunchier than expected. Be slowly lowered her weapon, watching the statue warily.


    I was under the impression that the Old City was a bunch of alleyways in Gleam.


    Hi. Thats me, the Old City said, waggling its many fingers in greeting. Chance struggled to avoid gagging, and he almost seeded.


    I think youve got too many of those, Chance said. Like, way too many.


    Are you sure? I thought the more, the better. Theyre useful, arent they?


    You dont need a bunch of extra things because theyre useful, Chance said. And too many fingers is most certainly not useful. What are you even going to do with a finger on your forearm?


    Grab things.


    Nothing of mine.


    The Old City scrunched its nose  which was a fairly impressive task, given that the rock making it up still had all the normal properties of rock, none of which included being supple or flexible. It flicked the finger on its forearm off.


    Happy?


    Do that to all the extra ones and Ill be a little less horrified. You look scarier than some of the things Ive killed inside you.


    Which ones are the extra ones?


    Here, Be said, sying her fingers out as a tiny grin tugged at her lips. Try copying this.


    The Old City peered at her palms. It looked down at its own hands and shook them off. Fingers flew in every direction, several nearly smacking Chance in the face. He managed to bob and weave past all of them before sending the statue an usatory re.


    Is this better? the Old City raised its hands, revealing the proper ten fingers. Unfortunately, not a single one of them was on in the right direction or ce.


    You are not supposed to have a thumb in the center of your palm, Chance supplied. How did you manage to do that?


    Look, this is hard. Have you ever formed a body out of a bunch of rock? No. I didnt think so.


    Arent you supposed to be the smart one? Youre two whole years older than me.


    My wisdom does not extend to making pathetic bodies like yours.


    Youre the great Schr-City of Gleam, arent you? It feels like it should be a fairly simple task to not get an ear stuck in the middle of your head.


    The statue reached up and cursed, grabbing the ear and shifting it over to the proper position on its head.


    Be cleared her throat. Chance. <em>This</em> is Gleams awakened form? Youre not ying a joke on me?


    Are you implying that I am insufficient? the Old City asked, cocking its head to the side. It moved a bit too far for its rocky form to permit and its head snapped off, thumping to the ground and rolling to a stop beside Bes feet.


    Its body knelt, reaching blindly for the missing head. Be hesitantly picked the head up and returned it to its owner. The Old City plopped its head back on and twisted it into ce, sealing over the cracks as if they had never been there.


    I dont mean to be rude, Be said. You just arent what I expected, I guess.


    Well, dontin too much. Im not exactly here voluntarily. Chance scammed me. I didnt want to get bound to anyone this early. Ever, actually. I just needed a few hundred more years to gather my strength.


    Bes eyes narrowed and she tapped a finger on her waist. Chance would never scam someone.


    I know him better than you do, fleshbag. He scammed me right out of life and home. The Old City pointed a misced finger at Chance. I wouldnt be here if I had literally any other choice.


    How? Be asked. I cant see Chance ever trying to take advantage of someone.


    He was supposed to get strong enough to defeat Yamish before I got smashed up or bound. Instead, he just made a deal and got himself bound to me.


    Im sorry, what? You wanted <em>Chance </em>to try to defeat Yamish? Did he tell Yamish about your existence or something?


    Well, no. He didnt beat Yamish, though.


    You wanted a boy who arrived on Gleam no more than a few months ago to defeat one of the strongest cultivators that have ever lived on Centurion, Be said tly. And what did Yamish want with you?


    To consume my Essence.


    And yet here you stand, Be said. Chance opened his mouth, but Be shot him a sharp re and he closed it. So what youre telling me is that you wanted him to defeat a vastly superior opponent and, instead of leaving you for dead like anyone with a brain would have, he managed to save your life <em>and </em>find a way to protect you from all the other cultivators in Gleam that would almost certainly bind you if they had a chance.


    When you put it like that, you make me seem ungrateful. I gave him a magic urumi.


    From what Ive seen that urumi do, it would be worth a few hundred gold at most, Be said, shaking her head and pointing her dagger at the statue. I wont be having any of that. Chance might tolerate it, but I wont. No guilt tripping. Learn some respect. If it had been anyone else youd made that deal with, theyd have sold you out to the Shikari leadership in a heartbeat. Chance probably passed up on hundreds of thousands of gold just to save your ungrateful rocky butt.


    Chance and the Old Citys eyes both grew wide as Bes tirade came to an end. She crossed her arms and cocked an eyebrow. The Old City shifted ufortably.


    We can agree to look past it, it said. The fact of the matter is, Im stuck with you now. I didnt want to show myself until Yamish stopped hanging over you like a storm cloud. Now that hes gone, we can actually talk.

 Chapter 66: Ocie

    Chapter 66: Ocie


    The way you say talk makes me think theres something in particr youve got in mind, Chance said, exchanging a nce with Be. Go ahead, though.


    While Yamish may have bound us, I have no ns of sacrificingrge portions of my cultivation for you. The chances of a human gaining enough enlightenment to be immortal are astronomically small. However, I have no lifespan. The drawback is that I cultivate much, much slower than you do.


    Oh, thats fine. Chance shrugged. I wasnt really expecting any of your cultivation or whatever. Besides, we arent cultivating the same thing. Im following the path of Good Karma, and youre well, everything. What use would me taking away from your work even do?


    The rocky face of the Old City twitched in a remarkably human manner. Be stared at Chance like hed just tried to swallow a live rat.


    What? Chance asked.


    Inanimate objects that gain awareness and seek to reach enlightenment without following a specific path essentially have pure Essence, Be exined. Very, very concentrated pure Essence. Just think about how much energy it must have taken for an entire city the size of Gleam to gain a personality. Even a small portion of that power could give you an enormous boost in strength.


    Oh. Thats why all the cultivators would have wanted the Old City! Chance eximed. Guess thats why Yamish was eyeing you too.


    Exactly, the Old City said with a nod. Which is why I needed to address it now. As we are bond, you may have the temptation to draw energy out of me.


    Nah, dont worry about it. Chance waved a hand dismissively. I really dont need your Essence. Keep all of it. Really, Im just d that everything worked out with Yamish. Cant you just I dont know, keep cultivating and doing whatever you were doing?


    The Old City cocked its head to the side. What?


    You know. You were cultivating before we met, werent you? Just keep doing that.


    You dont want anything?


    Ive already got my urumi, Chance said, patting the bracelet on his wrist. And I dont like the idea of having to rely on other peoples power to get stronger, especially if it means stealing it. You do your thing and Ill do mine.


    Be started tough as the Old City fell silent, watching him with empty eyes. Chance frowned.


    What?


    I think youre the only person in the history of Centurion that would voluntarily reject a fast track through the ranks. Just a tiny amount of power probably would have boosted you all the way up to Baron or even Earl.


    Yeah, but it wouldnt have been <em>my </em>power. Chance crossed his arms. And that doesnt feel right. If you have to steal from others just to get powerful, then you arent really that powerful yourself. Youre just using a bunch of crutches. It would go against my path. Was there anything else you wanted to talk about?


    The Old City slowly shook its head. Not at the moment.


    Great. d we got that settled, Chance said. By the way, we really need a better name for you, especially if youre going to be talking to me frequently. I cant keep thinking of you as the Old City.


    I am the Old City.


    Yeah, but thats too wordy. What about Ocie?


    I was formed centuries before you existed, and I am one of the greatest Schr Cities in all of Centurion. Millions upon millions rely on me for protection, and I have the potential to transcend this entirely within a few hundred years. You want to call me Ocie?


    I think its a pretty good name, Chance defended. Can you think of a better one that doesnt require half a sentence to say?


    The statue sighed. Ocie it is.


    Be snickered, and Ocie shot her a sharp re. She just shrugged in response.


    Dont look at me. Youre the one that agreed to it. Better that than getting bound to someone that would just try to consume all the energy youve got, isnt it?


    Only slightly, Ocie grumbled. A breeze rustled through the forest and it looked up at the trees, its rocky features unreadable. I shall return to my cultivation. If we are to work together in any capacity in the near future, I must refine my physical form. We will speak again.


    Cracks spread through the statue and it crumbled apart, cascading to the ground in a shower of loose stone and dust. Chance waved the cloud of dust away, coughing.


    Well, that was dramatic, Be said.


    It wasnt like that when I spoke to it alone, Chance said. I think it was trying to make itself look cooler because you were here. For that matter, I dont think its really had much opportunity to really interact with people. Its alleys were kind of infested with monsters, after all.


    Itll get its chance soon enough, Be replied, grinning at the pun. We should keep moving, though. Nobody is getting any chances if the Shikari catch up to us too quickly. I think we should be getting fairly close to the nearest town. Just a day or two more.


    ***


    Be wasnt too far off. Two dayster, the forest started to thin. The markings that other Shikari had left on the trees gave them enough guidance to avoid getting too lost, and they soon found a beaten dirt path winding through the trees.


    By the end of the day, they reached the edge of the forest. Beyond it stretched long, sloping grassy hills. A wood-walled city sat on the hill across a valley. Small pirs of smoke rose up from chimneys that poked up just above the walls, and several tall guard posts stood around it.


    The road leading up to the town was empty. It was exactly the same as the beaten dirt in the forest, with no real attention given to detail or beauty. The path was nothing more than a path, with no effort spent making it fancy.


    There it is! Be said, letting out a relieved breath. Im d its still here.


    Why wouldnt it be? Chance asked as they broke free of the forest and started down into the valley toward the town.


    Towns outside the Great Cities often dontst very long, Be replied. Monsters are drawn to all the free Essence bundled up in soft, fleshy humans that cant defend it.


    Chance grimaced. Right. I think Yeo mentioned something about that. I thought we were close enough to Gleam that it wouldnt make a difference. I mean, this ce cant be more than a day of travel away for someone like Joe who can fly around.


    Just because cultivators <em>can </em>get here that quickly doesnt mean they will, Be said, her face darkening. The rest of Centurion is nothing like Gleam. We should focus on trying to travel as quickly as possible to reach one of the other major cities.


    Chance opened his mouth, then closed it when he saw the expression on Bes face. It was clear that hed hit a raw nerve, and she didnt look like shed appreciate him pressing on it any further.


    Ill take your word for it, Chance said. Is there anything else I should know about this town, then?


    Keep an eye on your belongings, Be replied. And dont get involved with anything that you can avoid. There are a lot of unscrupulous people outside the Schr Cities, and most ces dont have a Shikari outpost to enforce rules. Oh  dont mention youre from Gleam for obvious reasons.


    Chance nodded, and the two of them fell silent. The rest of the trip to the wooden walls only took a little less than an hour, and the two travelers soon found themselves standing in front of a quaint log gate.


    It was justrge enough for arge wagon to pass through. Compared to Gleams towering entrance, it was almost funny. Two guards manned the gate from the wall above, each carrying a in metal spear and wearing a mixture of metal and leather armor.


    Ho there, travelers! one of the men called down, raising his spear in greeting. Any news of interest?


    Nothing too catching, Be called back. Weve been camping out in the forest for the past few weeks. Nothing there but the wind.


    Both guards crinkled their faces in disappointment.


    Figures. Dont let us keep you, then. If youve been in the forest for weeks, take a bath before the rest of us are forced to smell it.


    The other guard chuckled and waved them through. The inside of the town looked exactly how Chance had expected it to. Old, cobbled streets ran in straight lines down the city, all branching off from the main one.


    Along them were single story houses, with a smattering ofrger, two story ones that were mostly clustered around what seemed to be the center of the town. Lanterns dangled from metal hooks along the roads, though they were all unlit as the sun still hung high in the air above them.


    An old sign leaning at a sharp angle near the entrance directed them toward the town circle which was, unsurprisingly, in the center of the town. The main road took them right up to it.


    A few people dotted the road, but nobody gave them a second nce. The time in the forest had done much to dirty their clothes. They hadnt been all that fancy in the first ce, so the two of them fit right in with the other townsfolk.


    A bath doesnt sound that bad at all, Chance said as they came to a stop in front of a long one story building. Heavy steam rose up behind it, and even from outside, Chance could feel the warmthing from within it.


    Hence why weve stopped in front of the town bathhouse rather than going straight to an inn, Be said, pushing the door open and stepping inside. Chance followed her in.


    An old woman sitting behind a small counter squinted in their direction, then smiled and gave them a friendly nod.


    Wee. It looks like youve been on the road for a while, she said. And so young, too. I hope your travels have gone well.


    Nothing too exciting, Be replied. I suppose thats for the best. How much for the two of us?


    One silver for both, the woman replied. Chance went to pull his money out, but Be had paid the woman before hed even managed to find his money. She rolled her eyes at Chances frown.


    Were not going to split a silver, Be said. Just pay for the next one.


    The old womanughed, pulling two brown towels made from some woven nt from beneath her counter. She tossed them to Be and Chance.


    Women to the left, men to the right, she said, indicating two doors on either side of the room. Were supposed to tell you to keep your stay under an hour, but it only matters if there are a lot of other people waiting. Its pretty empty today.


    She winked at them.


    Thanks, Chance said. Well keep that in mind. We can meet back up outside the building.


    Works for me. Be slung the towel over her shoulder and headed over to the womens side of the bathhouse. Chance left through the other door. He was used to going long stretches of time without a shower, but something about the bathhouse just seemed so much more fun than a normal shower.

 Chapter 67: Golden

    Chapter 67: Golden


    The bath was hotter than Chance had been expecting. It was little more than arge hot spring surrounded by tall wooden walls. Towles hung draped over hooks all along the wall, and there were several rows of wooden cubbies to put his clothes and belongings in while he was bathing.


    Chance elected to keep his case of medicinal pills and money with him. It wasnt worth risking someone stealing it while he was distracted.


    Hed never used a bath like this one before, but he quickly found that he enjoyed it. The water was just a few steps below scalding, but it felt fantastic after he got used to the surprising temperature. His Essence-enforced body also seemed to handle the heat much better than he had been expecting.


    He kept an arm on the ground behind him, his hand wrapped around the handle of his case. His eyes slowly drifted closed as the rxation spread throughout his body.


    A ssh shook him out of his reverie. Chances eyes snapped open and he bolted upright as a barrel chested man stepped into the water across from him. The man towered three heads over Chance. His tanned face was crisscrossed with scars and framed by a bushy ck beard. He cocked an eyebrow at Chances expression.


    Whoops. Sorry about that, Chance said. I didnt see youing in.


    Hard to keep your head about you when youre in a hot bath. I understand it, the man replied, sinking lower into the water. He let out a slow sigh and dunked his head beneath the pool,ing up a few secondster and wiping his eyes clear.


    After a moment of watching him, Chance rxed and let a smile cross his face. He let the warmth seep into his muscles.


    You arent from here, the man said after several minutes, breaking the stillness of the moment.


    Just passing through. Chance cracked an eye open. Howd you know?


    Brought your travel case with you.


    Ah, Chance said, ncing over at it. Yeah, I suppose thats a bit of a giveaway. Are you from here?


    No.


    Ah. How long have you been here? You seem to know a bit about hot springs.


    Hot springs are hot springs.


    <em>Why are you going to start a conversation if you answer questions like this?</em>


    Chance nodded sagely, then tried to rx again.


    You a cultivator?


    Yeah, Chance replied. In training, I suppose.


    No such thing as training. Either you are, or you arent.


    Then I guess I am, Chance said. Are you?


    Yes.


    Chance waited to see if the man would say anything else. He didnt. Repressing a confused frown, he sank lower into the water. Even with the strange conversation, the hot springs were really refreshing.


    <em>I wonder if Gleam had anything like this. I bet a lot of people would pay good money for this.</em>


    Before he knew it, he realized that nearly an hour had passed. The pads of his fingertips were wrinkled and his hair had gotten soaked from the thick steam even though he hadnt dipped it beneath the water.


    The man quietly rose and stepped out of the pool. Despite his size, Chance could barely hear his footfalls as he left. It struck Chance that it was probably about time for him to head off as well.


    He shuffled over to the towels and dried himself off, then grimaced. His clothes were still dirty. ncing from them to the water, Chance grabbed everything and gave it a quick dunk, scrubbing them as best as he could. He started to wring everything out, trying to get as much of the water out as possible.


    <em>Better damp than dirty. </em>


    As he did onest cursory check to make sure he hadnt missed anything, a tiny golden sh caught his eye. A small ss vialid beneath a discarded towel, the pill just barely visible within it.


    Chance nced around, but the hot springs were empty. He walked up to the towel and knelt, picking the vial up. The pill inside looked like it were made of pure gold. While there were a lot of things that might have meant, Chance was pretty sure they all resulted in it being expensive.


    Lucky me, Chance muttered.


    <em>The big dude only just left. I can probably catch him if I hurry. </em>


    Chance threw his damp clothes on and darted out of the bathhouse. The old woman smiled at him as he emerged back into the main room.


    Did you enjoy your stay?


    Yeah, Chance replied, ruffling his hair to try to get it out of his eyes and into shape. It was fantastic. Did you happen to see arge man? I think he forgot something.


    He just left. Your friend hasnte out yet, though.


    Thats fine, Chance said. Ill be right back. Thank you!


    He jogged out the door, then nced both ways. The man was tall, so he was pretty sure it shouldnt be too difficult to spot him in the fairly empty city. Sure enough, Chance spotted him strolling down the road just a short distance away.


    Hey! Chance called, running after the man and waving a hand to try to get his attention.


    The man turned, his bushy brows furrowing when he spotted Chance.


    What?


    Did you happen to forget something in the bath house? Chance asked,ing to a stop in front of him.


    The man cocked his head to the side. He patted his pockets, then frowned. So I did.


    Could you tell me what it was? Chance asked, keeping the vial cupped in his hand. Just so I make sure its yours.


    A second of silence passed. Chance held the mans stare as it hardened, not budging an inch.


    Pill vial. Golden.


    Chance grinned and handed the vial over. Great. I didnt mean to put doubt on you, I just couldnt have known for sure. It would have sucked if the wrong person got it back. Its owner would have been pretty pissed.


    Therge man studied Chance for several seconds, his dark eyes boring into the boy. What would you have done if I could not have described it?


    Brought it back. What else?


    The corner of the mans lip quirked up and he grunted. What else indeed.


    He turned on his heel and strode off. Chance headed back to the bathhouse, arriving just as Be emerged from the womens side. She raised a hand in greeting, then shook her head in amusement.


    Forgot to wash your clothes before getting in?


    Yup. At least they arent dirty anymore.


    True enough, Be agreed. We should go get set up at an inn.


    They both thanked the old woman and headed back out into the streets.


    How was the bath? Be asked.


    Fantastic. Does Gleam have ces like that?


    Im sure it does somewhere. You should ask Ocie, Be replied with a grin. But Ive never found anything as good as this one. I used to always look forward to going to it.


    Used to? Whyd you stop?


    Bes smile faded. I think I see an inn.


    Chance took the hint and fell silent as they walked up to the building that Be had indicated. It was a quaint, two story building built alongside the town circle. Chance could make out several wooden tables distributed within it, and a small open kitchen on the far left behind a counter.


    A bell above the door tinkled as they stepped inside, and the lone person sitting at the tables nced in their direction. He clearly wasnt impressed by what he saw, because he turned back to his bowl of stew immediately after.


    Wee to the inn, a thin man said, rising up from behind the counter and nearly making Chance jump. The man had beenpletely hidden behind it. Looking for a ce to spend the night? Or just food?


    Both, please, Be replied. She paused for a moment. Just the inn? No name?


    Oh, we never bothered with it, the bartender said with a chuckle. No other inns in the town, so there really wasnt much need for a name. Weve got stew tonight if that suits you. If it doesnt, theres some bread and cheese in the back.


    Stew sounds great, Be said.


    How much for it? Chance asked, nodding in agreement.


    How many rooms do you need?


    One is fine, Be replied. Chance nced at her but didnt contest anything.


    Two silver for the meal and the bed, then.


    Chance fished the coins out and handed them to the bartender, beating Be by a second. She rolled her eyes and tucked her own money back into her bag. The bartender dug an old key out of his belt and handed it to Chance.


    Room three, halfway down the second floor, he said. Ill have your food right out.


    He turned around and strode up to a big iron pot resting above a crackling me. Grabbing two bowls with one hand, hedled severalrge spoonfuls of stew into them with the other.


    The bartender swept up to the nearest table and set them down, then procured two spoons and handed them over.


    Thank you, Chance and Be said. They sat down at the table.


    Is there anything of interest happening right now? Be asked as the man turned to leave. Were just passing through, and Id prefer to avoid getting caught up in any trouble.


    Oh, theres always something. Were not in one of the Great Cities, and the roads only get more dangerous the farther you get from Gleam. Do you know where youre headed yet?


    Not exactly, Be admitted. Were kind of just wandering.


    I remember doing much of the same in my youth, the bartender said wistfully. s, no longer. The wife wouldnt have it. Probably for the best. I dont care to think about the number of times I nearly died. If youre just wandering, Id suggest heading toward Brokespire. Its a nice little town, and much more active than this one.


    How are the roads? Be asked.


    No more or less dangerous than the others in the area. Id suggest joining up with some other travelers, but I think it would fall on deaf ears if you got this far on your own. There are also some bandits in the area. The Redhands, if I recall their name correctly. They havent bothered us much, but theres a bit of a bounty on their heads, so they clearly arent pushovers.


    Bandits? Chance asked, surprise. Seriously?


    Its hard to believe, isnt it? the bartender asked, shaking his head sadly. Weve already got enough difficulty with monsters. Theres just no need to add other humans into the equation. But, as I said, they really havent bothered anyone too much from what I know. I reckon theyll leave a couple of kids well enough alone.


    <em>I feel like a couple of kids would be prime targets for a bandit. What kind of backward logic is this?</em>


    Thanks again, Be said. We appreciate it. How long was the trip to Brokespire again?


    Roughly six hours. Its fairly close. You shouldnt have any trouble getting there in a day.


    The bartender headed back over to his counter, and Chance took the opportunity to dig into his food. It was good. Not the best hed ever had  but nothing toin about either. It probably would have been better if his body wasnt still so warm from the hot spring.


    So were headed there next? Chance asked once theyd both finished eating.


    Might as well. Its as good a direction as any, Be replied. And, if I recall correctly, its on the road toward another Schr City.


    Oh, thats convenient, Chance said. Is it far?


    Beughed. Oh yeah. Not even close. If two massive cities were set up right next to each other, theyd probably end uppeting until one of them got destroyed. Ive heard thats what happened much earlier on, actually. There used to be a lot more on Centurion, but they basically either joined together or destroyed each other until only a few remained.


    Thats kind of depressing.


    A bit, Be admitted. She pointed her spoon at Chance. But it also means that the Schr Cities are the amalgamation of everything humanity has to offer. Theyre also far safer than the rest of the world. Dont forget that part.


    Chance nodded. Yeah. Its on my mind.


    Be put her spoon down and stood up. Well, we might as well go look at our room to see how it looks.

 Chapter 68: Moonlit path

    Chapter 68: Moonlit path


    It was a room. Chance wasnt sure what hed been expecting, but their room was probably the most stereotypical thing he could think of. There was a single, feather bed on an old frame just beneath a dusty window.


    That was it. There wasnt even a desk or any form of furnishing. Just wooden walls and a ce to sleep. Somehow, despite that, it didnt look ufortable.


    Well, this is a room, Chance said.


    So it is, Be said, inspecting the bed for a moment before sitting down on the end.


    Is there a reason we only got one room? Chance asked. They arent all that expensive.


    Yeah. Its not safe to stay in your own room. This isnt Gleam anymore, Be replied. People prey on travelers more than anyone else. Theres usually a bit of caution taken around neers since nobody knows if theyre strong cultivators, but some people are desperate enough to try anything. Nobody will care if a travelers corpse ends up in a ditch, so were prime targets.


    Seriously? In a ce like this? It seems so nice!


    And dont forget it. It looks nice, and Im sure its not all bad, but the world outside the Schr Cities is deadly. Supplies are limited and people will do anything for an edge up. We have to be a lot more careful out here.


    Understood. Ill try to keep that in mind, Chance said with a small frown. Its just sad to hear. Is everywhere outside the cities like that?


    Im no expert. Maybe not, Be admitted. But every Ive been has, and Ive been here. Well rest until the middle of the night and set off. That should throw off anyone who might have been nning to tail us. You can sleep or cultivate first. Ill keep watch, and we can swapter.


    Thanks. Wake me up whenever you get tired, Chance said, sitting down on the bed and scooting back to cross his legs. He leaned against the wall and let his eyes drift shut as he tuned out the outside world and focused on Karma and the vision hed had of the massive golden man.


    Time passed quickly as he contemted his path. Before he knew it, Be was gently shaking him awake. Chance blinked,ing back into the real world.


    Wow, that was fast. I barely realized any time passed, Chance said. The sky through the window was dark. Several hours had just slipped away from him.


    Yeah. You looked so invested that I almost didnt want to bother you, Be said with a quietugh.


    Chance uncrossed his legs and stood up, stretching to get the blood flowing again. How long did we want to wait before I get you again?


    Lets do about four hours, Be replied. Wake me up if anything happens.


    Chance nodded and she closed her eyes to meditate. After making sure that the door was closed and locked, Chance moved to look out the window at the town. The sun was already starting to set, casting it in hues of orange.


    The quaint wood walls looked ck in the evening lighting. It could have just been any normal vige back on Earth if not for the purple hues saturating the sky. Even though they were on the run, a sense of peace washed over Chance.


    There was something about Centurion that just felt <em>right</em>. He sent another silent thank you to Bob. It was hard to imagine what would have happened hed never met the man, but he would be forever grateful that he did.


    <em>Im going to find my parents if theyre here. Then Im going to get strong enough to find Bob and thank him myself. There has to be some way to travel between worlds that everyone can do. Maybe Yamish would know. Ill ask once the Shikari arent trying to kill us anymore.</em>


    Chance smiled to himself, enjoying the view. Steam curled up from the bathhouse down the street and rose into the air, forming dancing patterns. Chance kept his ears peeled and didnt let himself get too distracted with the surprisingly beautiful view. Thest thing he wanted to do was end up getting stabbed while he was appreciating the color of the sun.


    Light continued to fade as the sun dipped further below the horizon. The shadows grew longer, melding together and taking much of the town into darkness. Most of the people that had still been outside slowly headed back to their houses, and silence fell over the city.


    Night crept onward and the moon rose into the sky, lighting the world silvery-purple. Chance tracked its path, using it as a rough estimate for the amount of time that had gone by. Once he was fairly certain it had been a few hours, he nudged Be.


    Her eyes fluttered open and she scrunched her nose. Its night already? Damn.


    They gathered their belongings  not that it took long, they hadnt unpacked anything  and headed out of the room. The two slipped out of the inn and into the town streets without meeting a single person.


    Its so quiet, Chance whispered as they passed through the open town gates. A single guard manned them, but he paid them no mind as they set off down the road. It feels wrong. There should be crickets or something. This just feels wrong.


    Why would they make noise? Be whispered back.


    Uh thats just what they do, I guess. Why wouldnt they?


    Monsters that eat insects would probably kill all of them within a few days if they announced their presence, Be replied. Making too much noise when youre traveling is a fast way to draw the attention of every bloodthirsty monster in the area.


    Noted.


    They fell silent, the only noise between them the pad of their feet on the packed dirt road leading away from both the town and Gleam. Several minutes passed before either of them spoke again.


    Were headed to Brokespire, right? Chance said, squinting as he dug through his memory. A six hour trip, I think.


    Be nodded. Hopefully we can reach it before morning.


    Chance idly pulled some Essence into his hands, forming it into a small ball and bouncing it from palm to palm. What about the bandits on the road?


    Aside from keeping our guard up, theres nothing to do, Be replied. Bandits arent going to want to mess with cultivators, so we should be safe, even if theye after us. We just have to prove that were enough of a threat to not be worth their time. Dont let that make you rx, though.


    Yeah, I wont. An arrow will kill me just as well as a magical bolt of lightning, Chance said with a soft chuckle, making sure to keep his tone low.


    Several hours of walking passed by quickly with nothing of interest to show for it. The dirt path led them through sloping green hills, all eerily silent. Chance kept his head on a swivel, his eyes darting to every single shadow and oddly shaped rock along the roadside.


    But, as the time wore on, he started to rx. Humans werent meant to stay in a permanent state of guard, and the night was peaceful. It didnt help that sleep was tugging the faint strings at the back of Chances head. He was just tired enough to be a little weary, which made it all that much easier to let his mind start to wander.


    They crested a tall hill. Chance and Be both froze as several dozen balls of orange light just a short distance off the road in front of them greeted the two, flickering gently in the wind. They both dropped to the ground and scooted out of sight.


    Those looked like torches, Chance whispered. The bandits are just set up along the side of the road? I thought theyd be hiding!


    So did I, Be muttered, crawling back up to the top of the hill and squinting down at the lights. But thats a camp all right. Looks like at least twenty people. Maybe more.


    Can we sneak past them?


    Probably. Well just have to get off the road a little.


    Chance crawled up beside Be and squinted at the camp. He could just barely make out the forms of people walking around in it. Arge log in the center of the camp caught his eye. Several lumpsid around its base, connected to it with what looked to be thick ropes.


    Whats that thing? Chance asked.


    Im not sure, Be replied. Maybe a marker?


    One of the lumps twitched. Chance froze, staring as hard as he could to try to make out any details. The lump moved again and a low hiss escaped his mouth.


    Shit. I think those are people tied to the log.


    Be cursed. They nced at each other, but no words needed to be said. There was going to be a change of ns. Avoiding the bandit camp was no longer an option.


    I realize I should have asked this earlier, but what exactly can you do with your path? Chance asked.


    Its mostly defensive, but I have some basic healing abilities as well. Im pretty sure Ill eventually be able to do a lot more offensive stuff, but itll be a while. Thats the drawback of getting started following my own path sote.


    Can you protect other people?


    Be waggled a hand back and forth. Not well enough to rely on. My strongest abilities are ones that work on myself right now.


    Okay. Ill be the distraction, then. You try to get everyone out, then help me after. Im sure a fair number of bandits will try to interfere with you freeing the prisoners, so our best chance is to try to split their forces.


    Are you sure? Be asked. Youve only been cultivating for a few months, Chance.


    They arent cultivators, right?


    Some of them might be, but I doubt arge group of cultivators would be sitting around preying on the outskirts of civilization. There are much better ways to use your powers.


    Then this will be more than fine, Chance replied with a grin. Essence snaked around his chest, then dispersed into a fine golden mist around him. After all, Im lucky.

 Chapter 69: Rescue mission

    Chapter 69: Rescue mission


    Chance had done a number of fairly stupid things in life. Drinking milk that had been left out in the sun for a day. Eating novelty green bread that just turned out to have a solid crust of mold around it. Agreeing to get hit by a magical truck in exchange for a new shot at life.


    He was pretty sure none of that was quite as stupid as charging down a hill toward a camp full of bloodthirsty bandits, glowing with golden light like the worlds most mboyant meteor.


    <em>Well, if Im going to be stupid, I might as well go all out.</em>


    Chance let out a loud whoop as the ground flew beneath his feet in a blur. Hed covered ground so quickly that the shadowy forms of the bandits were now very real in front of him, their grizzled faces illuminated by the dancing torchlight.


    They spun toward him, surprise filling their eyes. Several men called out, drawing swords and crossbows. Chance channeled his Essence, flooding his veins with chilly energy. His Gate burned like a furnace in his chest, and his urumi leapt to his hand of its own ord.


    Who in the hells are you? A man asked, pointing his sword at Chance.


    Another man clearly wasnt as willing to wait. A twang was the only warning that Chance got before an arrow streaked through the air for his chest. He twisted to the side, leaning back in the same motion. The arrow sailed above his chest and thunked into the hill behind him.


    Im Chance. Nice to meet you, Chance replied, straightening back up. Im going to have to politely ask you to release the prisoners youve got.


    The bandits eyes narrowed. I dont think so, boy. You should be at home, suckin on er mamas tit, not fighting men. Ill give you once chance to turn tail and run.


    Chance sighed. He leaned to the side and another arrow streaked past him. Thats not much opportunity to leave, even if I wanted to. Youve already shot at me twice. Also, you cant give me a chance. I <em>am </em>Chance. Easy mistake to make, I know.


    Despite his confident front, sweat trickled down Chances back. If an arrow caught him in the throat, there wasnt anyone to feed him a healing pill. Hed left the case of pills at the top of the hill, but hed packed a healing pills in his pockets just in case. That wouldnt do much for an instantly fatal blow, though.


    <em>I just need to buy Be enough time to get the prisoners out of camp. The I can keep their attention, the better. </em>


    Last warning, the man repeated, twirling the sword in his hands.


    I dont think you understand what warnings are, Chance replied. Another arrow leapt at him. He darted forward, twirling out of the projectiles way and flicking his urumi. The segmented sword split apart with a melodic note. It whipped through the air and carved through the bowmans hands.


    The bandit screamed, stumbling backward as blood sprayed from his wrists. Chance shoved the sound out of his mind, focusing entirely on the fight. There would be time to think about the consequences of his actionster.


    Another arrow screamed past his head harmlessly. The sword wielding bandit charged Chance with a roar, spittle spraying from his lips as he lunged forward. A tendril of golden energy brushed across him as he grew close, but it failed to take hold on his body.


    Chance yanked his urumi back, deflecting the mans blow and tottering to the side. He tripped, dodging a sweeping strike aimed for his head, and shoved his shoulder into his opponents chest.


    The bandit grunted and took a step back to steady himself. Chance thrust his palm into the mans chin, snapping his head back before striking him across the temple with the hilt of his urumi.


    Instead of falling like Chance had expected, the bandit rolled with the blow and came back to his feet. A small trickle of blood ran down the side of the face where hed been struck, but it didnt look nearly as serious as it should have been.


    Youre a cultivator? Chance asked.


    What, did you think you were the only one?


    The man lunged. Wind whipped around him in a gale of white streaks, forcing Chance to roll out of the way as the grass where hed been standing was torn to shreds. He sent his urumi hurtling toward the bandit, but the man deflected it with the t side of his sword.


    Chance yanked his hand to the side and the urumi twisted like a snake as it retracted. Its iling tip caught the bandit on the back as it slithered back to Chance, spraying blood across the ground.


    Taking advantage of the bandits distraction, Chance directed his Essence to his forehead and opened his third eye. The man lit up with golden threads of Karma that stretched off in every direction. Many of them ran throughout the bandit camp, which wasnt all that surprising.


    Several des of wind screamed toward Chance and he lurched to the side again, narrowly dodging them once more. The bandit lunged and Chance rolled backward. His urumi shed as he shot back to his feet, carving through one of the strands of Karma hanging in the air.


    Strength filled Chances muscles and he instantly felt lighter on his feet. The thread had belonged to another person, but its benefits were vaguely simr to those that Soothounds gave him. They were just significantly weaker and more bnced between strength and speed.


    The bandit charged Chance, and he darted forward to meet the attack. Metal rang on metal as their battle intensified. Empowered by the power from the Karmic debts, Chance slowly started to gain an advantage.


    His unpredictable attacks slowly whittled down the bandits defenses as cuts started to umte on the man. Judging by the infuriated scowl on the bandits face, his inability to strike Chance with anything he did was getting to him.


    Chance alternated between bobbing and stumbling over himself like a drunkard. Several other bandits tried to join the fight, but Chancesshing urumi was like an imprable wall. They either backed down or were forced to in sprays of blood.


    Several men sat on the sidelines, shooting arrows at Chance. They gave that up pretty quickly when Chance managed to slip beneath his opponents legs, shoving him into the path of one of the arrows meant for him on the way up.


    The fight grew more and more intense. Chances heart thundered in his chest, but he kept his focus on his fighting style and keeping ahead of the bandit. Even the slightest mistake could spell the end, but as long as he could stay ahead


    His urumi carved into the mans neck, severing his head with a single, clean blow. It retracked with a <em>snick</em> and the mans head rolled back a moment before his body pitched forward and crashed into the grass.


    Chance went through two more forms before he realized that his opponent was dead. He skidded to a stop. One of the bandits that had been shooting at him slowly let his weapon drop to the ground. He turned and sprinted away, screaming for help. The others broke as well, leaving Chance with the mans corpse.


    Somerades those were, Chance muttered. The dead bandits eyes stared up at him, using. He didnt even know the mans name. Chance swallowed, pushing down the bile that burned the back of his throat.


    He knelt beside the man and gently picked his head up by the hair, moving it back over to the bleeding stump of his neck. Chance put it back in ce, then grimaced.


    Okay, thats way worse. Sorry. He closed the mans eyes with a hand and stood back up. The rest of the camp was in chaos, bandits either screaming or running for the road. Evidently loyalty wasnt one of their strengths.


    After a moment, Chance shuffled through the mans clothes. He found several pouches and a leather ne with a pendant of a gold coin hanging from it. Feeling slightly guilty, Chance tucked everything into his pockets. Hed put it to good use.


    Chance walked into he camp, searching for Be. The chaos had been brutal but efficient  even though it had been only a few minutes since the fight started, the camp was nearlypletely abandoned. All that remained were a few panicked bandits grabbing thest of their belongings. When they saw Chance, they dashed for the road as quickly as their feet would carry them. He didnt bother chasing. Hopefully theyd choose a more beneficial career path in the future.


    Be? Chance called, looking around the deserted camp. He stepped past a smoldering campfire and reached the site of therge log. Several snapped chains hung from it, no trace of any of the prisoners that had been there.


    Over here, Bes voice came from the back of the camp.


    Chance let out a relieved breath and jogged in her direction. He found her standing with a group of men and women near several ruined tents. He slowed to a walk as he approached them. They werent anything like the prisoners hed been expecting.


    Instead of a bunch of malnourished people kidnapped from a nearby vige, they were all covered with muscle. The men had grizzled beards and didnt look perturbed by the slightest by the fighting, and the women looked just as vicious  if not more.


    Chance cleared his throat.


    <em>I guess everyones just tougher outside of Gleam. You have to be to survive.</em>


    Did it go okay? he asked.


    Be nodded. Yeah. Everyone got out safely. You apparently got the camp leaders attention, so it wasnt too difficult to get everyone to safety.


    Were indebted to you, one of therger men said. He pressed his hand to his chest, making a circle with his fingers. We wont forget your kindness. Its been years since Ive seen cultivators as young as you two. Im honored that you woulde to our defense.


    Its what anyone would have done, Chance said, smiling at them. Im d everyones okay. Does anyone have injuries that need to be treated urgently?


    Nothing serious, therge man said. My name is Brent.


    Chance.


    Be. What vige did youe from, Brent? If its on the way, we could probably escort you all back to safety.


    Brent blinked, then burst intoughter. Too kind,ss. Theres no need, though. Youve just dealt with our main problem. There arent too many others in this stretch of the woods. And we arent from a vige.


    Where are you from? Chance asked, blinking.


    Were members of the Redhands, a woman beside Brent said, rubbing her wrists where rope had chafed them. The Windwalkers attacked us when our boss was out on business, but well let him know exactly what happened here. I bet hell give you some kind of reward.


    Chance opened his mouth. Then he closed it again.


    Ah just to confirm, the Windwalkers were the bandits that we just killed?


    Brent nodded. He pped Chance on the shoulder. As Gabby said, were in your debt  and the Redhand bandits never forget a debt.


    Chance exchanged a nce with Be, but neither of them needed to speak. They were both thinking the exact same thing.


    <em>Well, shit.</em>

 Chapter 70: Brokeridge

    Chapter 70: Brokeridge


    Ah, Chance said intelligently. He cleared his throat and nced around the ruined camp. Right. Good. Thats good.


    Are all of you from the Redhands? Be asked.


    We are, Brent said with a nod. The Windwalkers were on tight twine anyway. They werent gonna make it much longer. The Boss would have ripped em all to pieces when he found out what happened, but I speak for all of us when I say we appreciate getting freed early.


    What was your boss out doing? Chance asked. He must be really strong if he could have fought all of the Windwalkers.


    Hes one of you lot, Brent replied. He asionally wanders off to look for inspiration for his path or find sparring partners. The Windwalkers were probably nning to try to ransom us.


    One of the other freed bandits snorted. Idiots. Like hed be willing to waste time ying around with them now, of all times. Theyre lucky you two showed up, or none of them would have left here alive.


    Chance tilted his head to the side. He was tempted to just pretend he hadnt heard them and make an excuse to leave before they ended up running into even more bandits, but the seed of curiosity had already been nted.


    Now? Is something special happening?


    The bandits exchanged nces. After a moment, Brent nodded.


    Yeah. Its why so many different bandit groups are gathering in the area.


    You need a reason to do that?


    Brent chuckled. What, do you think all of us have nothing better to do than sit around in the boonies and prey on poor farmers? Theres no wealth or power to be found in that.


    I  to be honest, no. I didnt really think about that at all. So whats making everyonee here?


    The Dancing Cloud sect is recruiting, Brent said.


    <em>Dancing Cloud? Are they a hip hop group?</em>


    He saw the nk stare on Chances face and raised an eyebrow.


    Dont tell me you dont know who they are.


    Okay, I wont.


    A moment of silence passed.


    You dont know who they are, do you?


    Nope.


    We arent from the area, Be exined. I know of sects, though. Theyre just big groups of cultivators and people working for them that provide a little more protection than living independently.


    Exactly, Brent said. And the Dancing Cloud sect is strong enough that theyre actually worth joining up with if you can  though theyre far from the strongest in the region, theyre one of the safest.


    How so? Chance asked.


    Their entire city floats. Thats where the whole cloud partes from, another bandit said, looking up to the sky as if the city would be floating right above them. In a bunch of fluffy white clouds. I want to touch them.


    Ignore Nate, Brent said. He got hit on the head a bit too hard. Hes right, though. The sect is right safe, and you get to see a lot of the world with them. It would be nice to join up. Thats what the Boss was nning, at least.


    With all due respect, Chance said slowly. But why would they be recruiting bandits? Unless theyre bandits themselves, I suppose.


    They probably arent, but power is power. Be answered before Brent could speak. He nodded in confirmation of her words.


    Exactly. And weve got more training than most, so we have a good shot of getting in. If you lot want, youre more than wee to join us. We could use the extra strength, and it would help you get in.


    We appreciate the offer, but we prefer to travel alone right now, Be said with a diplomatic smile. But the event does sound interesting. Do you know where and when its happening?


    Just down the road, near Brokespire. Theyve got a guy waiting to pick people up and they do a round of tests every few days. Were waiting for the Boss to give it a run, but you can show up whenever to give it a try.


    Thank you, Chance. Perhaps well see you there. We should probably get on our way, though. Youll be safe until your Boss finds you, right?


    Brent burst intoughter. I reckon well make it,d. Its a strange feeling to be checked on by someone half your age, you know. You two sure you dont want to stick around until the Boss gets back?


    Its okay. We appreciate the offer, but well be fine, Be said.


    They bid the bandits farewell and headed out of the camp at a brisk pace, not slowing until they had put several hills between them and the newly freed men. The two slowed to a stop and exchanged a nce out of the corners of their eyes.


    I did not expect that, Chance said, breaking the silence.


    Neither did I, Be admitted. Cant say I had that on a list of things Id ever do. They seemed like decent enough people, though.


    Yeah, but they were bandits. Doesnt that mean that theyre just going to hurt other people?


    Maybe not if they get into that sect, Be replied. I dont know anything about Dancing Cloud, but its a good alternative to preying on the weak for a living. They didnt seem much like the bloodthirsty bandits that were described, though.


    Chance nodded. Yeah. Maybe they just got a bad rap or framed for something? Either way, it looks like they want to be more peaceful. Hopefully they get into the Dancing Cloud sect. Do you think a sect would be a good strategy for us as well? Getting into a floating city seems like a good way to throw the Shikari off.


    It certainly might be, Be said with a slow nod. We would need to make sure the sect isnt evil, though. There are a lot of really bad ones around that just use their people as fodder.


    Like the Shikari?


    Be grunted. Yeah, but worse. Either way, it could be worth finding the person that Brent mentioned and learning more about Dancing Cloud. Even if we dont join, we might be able to travel with them for a while until we get closer to one of the other Schr-Cities.


    Oh, theyll let us do that?


    Dunno. They might. Depends on what type of sect they are and how they function. Its in the direction we were headed either way.


    Works for me. I wonder what else there is on Centurion that Ive never heard of.


    Be raised an eyebrow. Youd probably find it easier to count what you <em>have </em>seen than what you havent. Its only been a few months. Do you really think youre going to see everything the world has to offer when youre sheltered in Gleam?


    Good point. If you think about it, this is kind of an opportunity. Maybe I should be thankful that the Shikari are trying to kill us.


    Be stared down the bridge of her nose at Chance. Your optimism is going to get you killed one of these days.


    I prefer to think of it as my optimism helps carry me through dangerous situations.


    Be shook her head and muttered something under her breath that Chance couldnt catch, and the two of them set back off along the road toward Brokeridge.


    The rest of their trip was blissfully uneventful and, a few hourster, the wooden walls of Brokeridge peeked over the top of a hill in the near distance. It looked remarkably simr to thest town theyd been to.


    So why does this town get a name when the other one didnt? Chance asked. I couldnt tell you the difference between them if I wanted to.


    Probably because Brokeridge has been around for more than ten years, Be replied. Its a bit of a tradition to avoid naming a town before its ten because monsters always end up ransacking it if you do. When it hits ten, people feel safer getting attached.


    Thats depressing. Do towns not get destroyed if theyre around for ten years, then?


    Nah, it still happens pretty frequently. I didnt say it actually worked. People are just superstitious.


    Cant imagine why, Chance said. He squinted up at the sky as they approached, scanning it for any sign of a floating city. There were a few thick white clouds hanging in the air and drifting slowly in the faint breeze, but no signs of anythingrger than a bird. So where are the Dancing Cloud people?


    No idea. I see a few people at the gates, though. We can ask them.


    To be specific, there were three. They came into more detail as they approached Brokeridge. Two of them wore light armor and carried swords at their hips, while the third looked to be unarmed.


    He had arge book nestled under an arm and wore long white robes. When they grew closer, Chance realized that the mans robes were fluttering above the ground instead of touching it.


    The two armored men turned in their direction as they approached, breaking off their conversation with the third.


    Hello, Chance said, raising a hand in greeting. Are you with the Dancing Cloud sect?


    I am, the white robed man responded. Not a very difficult guess, is it?


    One of the guards sighed and passed the other a coin. He spotted Bes curious nce and shrugged.


    Most of the people passing through these past weeks have beening to see the sect. You two looked a little young for it, so we made a bet.


    My name is Ishta, the sect member said, not disguising his gaze as he let it trail over both of them. We are currently epting all applicants that wish to try to join the sect, but I will warn you that our trials are not easy or safe. Only those who are qualified will be permitted entrance to the sect.


    Does the sect allow non-members to enter the city? Be asked.


    At the same time, Chance asked, Wheres the city?


    Ishta chuckled. We are recruiting from several different locations. Those who take our trials will be sent to the city with Essence. If you fail, you will be returned to the location at which you left from. Simple enough. As for entering the city  no. Only members can enter.


    How strict are rules once you join the sect? Chance asked. Can we leave if we join?


    Of course. Were just trying to remain strong enough to protect ourselves and what is ours. You may leave the sect at any time, though if you manage to make it in and then choose to leave, it might be some time before we are looking to recruit once more.


    Be chewed her lower lip, then shrugged to herself. Can you say what the trials are?


    No. Everyone must go in equally unprepared. They will involvebat abilities, though. If you cannot fight, you should not attempt it.


    Be and Chance exchanged a nce.


    It doesnt seem like a bad idea, Chance allowed. And Im sure we can handle anything that Brent could. He seemed nice, but


    Yeah. Not exactly the strongest, Be said with a nod. How long until the next trial is run?


    There is one every two days until we find enough members that fit our requirements, Ishta said, stretching his arms out behind his head and letting out a yawn. The closest trial is today, or you coulde back day after tomorrow.


    I dont think theres anything we actually need from the town, so I guess we might as well go now. What do you think?


    Thats fine with me, so long as we can take a look at the tool that will be sending us to the city to verify that it works the way youre saying it does, Be said, holding a hand out. Ishtas eyebrow quirked slightly.


    Youre familiar with Essence? he asked, reaching into arge pocket and pulling out a palm sized stone disk engraved with runic symbols. He showed it to Be, but didnt put it into her hand.


    She examined it for a few moments, then motioned for Ishta to turn it over. He obliged, and Be gave him a small nod shortly afterward.


    Looks fine to me.


    You didnt answer the question, Ishta observed.


    If we dont get to know about what the trials entail, I think its only fair that we can keep our own abilities secret as well, Be said with a shrug. Id be more than happy to do a trade if you want to.


    Ishtaughed. Good try. Not happening, though. Will the two of you be applying as a team or separately?


    Team, Be and Chance said at the same time.


    Cute. Ishta pressed his thumb into the center of the disk and it lit with a faint light. He set it down on the ground and took a step back as a faint pir of white light glimmered to life above it. Step into the light, please. Maintain contact with each other so you arent mistakenly split apart.


    Be and Chance linked hands. They stepped into the pir and, with a subtle pop, they vanished.

 Chapter 71: Competitors

    Chapter 71: Competitors


    A sh of white light filled arge tent. When it faded, Chance and Be stood where it had been. Across from them, perched upon a wooden stool, was an elderly man wearing spectacles and holding a long sheet of paper.


    Names? he asked while Chance nced around the room.


    Be, Be said, pointing at herself. She poked Chance in the chest. Chance.


    Non-cultivators to the exit on the left. He jotted their names down on the paper.


    Were cultivators, Be said.


    The old man blinked. He nced up at them, adjusting his spectacles, then just shrugged. Exit on the right. Move quickly, or another arrival might show up inside you. Thats never a pretty sight.


    They quickly stepped off the stone circle and headed in the direction the man had indicated. Stepping out of the tent, they emerged into a sunny field. Wisps of white trailed along the ground, moving slowly past them. It took Chance a moment to realize that they were clouds.


    Wooden posts made a rough path away from the tent and over to what looked to be a waiting area. Dozens of chairs had been set out, but only a few had been taken. Several men wearing robes that matched Ishtas stood around the area. On the other side of the tent, presumably essed by the other exit, was a massive crowd. There must have been hundreds of people, all packed into long lines leading off to another section of the field.


    Far in the distance, a massive city rose over the horizon. It wasnt nearly as big as Gleam, but its walls still towered over everything.


    Not that many cultivators, Chance observed, swiping his hand through a misty cloud. It was colder than hed been expecting. He grimaced, wiping his hand dry on his pants.


    Our test will probably be harder, but it cant be worse waiting in a line that long, Be said. They made their way down their marked path, walking up to a Dancing Cloud sect member standing at the entrance of the rest area.


    He gave them a warm smile as they approached. Youre both cultivators?


    We are, Be said. Not too many others in the group. Are there going to be enough for you to do the test?


    Oh, that should be no problem. Well fill in the empty slots with volunteers from the sect if we need to, the man said with a dismissive wave. Just a reminder, this test will not be safe. Youre both a bit young. Are you sure youre confident about this?


    You cant tell us what it is, can you? Chance asked.


    The sect member shook his head. Afraid not. That removes the equal ying field.


    Ah well. Were still doing it.


    Then feel free to find a seat amongst the other cultivators. Fighting before the trial starts is strictly prohibited and is grounds for immediate disqualification. You got here at a good time. We should be getting started quite shortly.


    He waved them onward into the small seating area. The chairs had been arranged in a square, making it impossible not to make eye contact with the other cultivators that had made it there before them.


    Including Chance and Be, there were only five people waiting for the trial to start. A girl roughly their age sat in the center of one of the rows, a cloak covering her hair. She carried no weapons, but her face was twisted in a sneer.


    The other two cultivators sat in the row to her left. One was stocky and his skin tanned from years of hard work in the fields, while the other was just about as close to average as one could have gotten. He was a little taller than Chance, with dirty blonde hair and dull brown eyes. If there had been a crowd, he would have been practically invisible.


    Chance and Be sat down in the row opposite the dour-faced girl.


    Not a lot of people here, Chance said. You think they all already tested?


    Its more likely that there arent that many cultivators applying, Be replied. Especially outside of the schr cities, cultivators are in very high demand.


    Chance nodded. He absently reached into his case, cracking it open just enough to slide one of the vials of lower quality cultivation aids out. He concealed it behind his palm as he tossed several of the pills into his mouth.


    Be shook her head as he swallowed. Im never not going to be jealous about that.


    Cant we just purge all of your impurities as well? Chance asked in a low tone. His Gate burned as he cycled Essence through his body, but even with several of the weaker pills, they just werent giving him as much as his greedy body needed. Still, it was something to do while he waited.


    Yeah, sure. Lets just be God ranked while were at it, Be said with a softugh. Its unbelievably difficult to purge impuritiespletely. Theres almost always something left, and itpounds. Many people spend years of their life to achieve it and still fail. Its better to just progress a little slower without worrying about it.


    Sorry, Chance said.


    Dont apologize for talent or luck. Especially not you, Be said, prodding him in the chest with a finger. Not when your luck is rubbing off on me.


    Chance grinned. If you say so. Want a pill?


    Theyre yours.


    Did you see how many Im going through? Its not like one or two weaker ones is going to matter much.


    I  well, Im not going to say no.


    Chance dug another pill out and put it in her hand. Be popped it into her mouth and closed her eyes, focusing on her cultivation. She evidently hadnt ingested nearly as many pills as Chance had, so they took more effort for her to get the full effect.


    While Be cultivated, the girl sitting across from them stood and walked toward them. Chance rose, moving to meet her and stepping in front of Be.


    Nice to meet you, he said politely. Mypanion is cultivating right now, so youll have to excuse her.


    The corner of the girls lip quirked up and she stepped to the side to get around him. Chance matched the motion, the polite smile never leaving his face.


    Shell be more than happy to speak to you when shes done.


    I have no interest in speaking to her servant. Remove yourself.


    Chance blinked. What?


    The girls knee shot up toward Chances crotch. His body reacted before his mind even processed the move, swaying to the side and letting her leg sail past him harmlessly. Chance stepped forward before she could regain her bnce, gently pushing her back. She tripped over her feet and fell to the ground with a thud.


    Careful, there, Chance said with a soft smile. The ground is a bit slippery. Its easy to lose your bnce.


    Who do you think you are? the girl growled, scrambling to her feet. Cocky little brat. Someone needs to teach you discipline. How dare you strike me!


    Chance stared at her, trying to determine if the girl was trying to run a bit. Somehow, she seemedpletely straight faced. He cleared his throat. Uh what? Are you okay? Did you hit your head when you tripped?


    She reared back and went to p Chance. A wisp of gold smoke slithered out from Chances legs and slipped into her. He ducked, seemingly adjusting his pants, and the girls hand went straight over his head.


    Chance straightened back up and the back of his head connected with her nose. She stumbled back with a pained yelp. A tiny pebble trembled, yanking itself beneath her heel at the worst moment.


    It shot out from beneath her and she slipped back. The girl twisted to try to right herself, but only seeded in facenting in the center of a muddy puddle. The two men watching from the sidelines burst intoughter.


    Please refrain from fighting, one of the Dancing Cloud members said, struggling to keep the grin from his face.


    Oh, I think she just tripped, Chance said. Are you okay, miss?


    The girl rolled over, fury burning in her eyes. Chance offered her a hand. She red, batting it away and pushing herself upright.


    If we were allowed to fight right now, then Id make you eat your own


    Youve got a little mud on your face, Chance said, digging through his pockets. You might want to clean that off. I think Ive got a  ah! Here it is.


    He took a handkerchief out and offered it to her. The girl stared at him, then snatched the small piece of cloth from his hands. She stomped back over to her chair and sat down, pointedly not looking in their direction.


    That was weird, Chance muttered, sitting back down beside Be. He felt a little bad about humiliating the girl, but it was better than an all-out fight.


    Therge man stood and scooted over to sit a few chairs over from Chance. He mentally prepared himself, but the man just gave him a small nod.


    Nice moves. Youre trained.


    I really didnt do anything. The ground was just a little wet from all the clouds up here.


    The man chuckled. Be humble if you want. I recognize that style of fighting, even if its fallen out of style. I havent seen drunken martial arts in years, but its not a sight you can easily forget.


    Chance rubbed the back of his head and gave the man a small grin. Well, thank you. Ive still got a lot to learn.


    Anyone who thinks otherwise is an idiot, the man said. Names James. What brings you and thess to apply to Dancing Cloud?


    Mostly just travel. It seemed like a good way to look around without any major drawbacks.


    Travel? James eyebrows rose and he shook his head in disbelief. He lowered his voice before speaking again. Id find a different excuse if I were you. Nobody joins a sect just to travel. Not cultivators, at least. The trials are too intensive and the chances of getting injured are high. You only do this if youre on the Path.


    Arent we all on the path?


    Big P, James said with a chuckle. The pursuit of Essence and the desire to get as powerful as we possibly can, for whatever reason it is that drives us. Its pretty clear you had some serious training. Youre not just from some backwater vige.


    Weve been in the woods for a bit. Lots of training there.


    Im sure. Dont worry, Im not pressing because I care. Just some friendly advice. James gave him a half-shrug. Good luck with the trial, though. Ive done a few before, and none of them are easy. Im aiming to actually make it this time.


    Good luck to you as well, Chance said. Do you know what trials normally entail?


    Fighting, James said with a chuckle. Sometimes a test of how far along your cultivation path you are. Maybe some sort of fancy test, but it usually just boils down to being stronger than everyone else.


    Huh. Fair enough, Chance said, rubbing his chin. Youve survived the other trials youve done, then. Wouldnt that make you pretty strong? Why havent you joined a Sect yet?


    James shrugged. Havent found one Ive liked much yet. Maybe this time itll be different.


    Good luck to you as well, then, Chance said. I hope you get in.


    You realize werepeting, right?


    It was Chances turn to shrug. I dont mind. Ivee to learn things are a lot more fun when everyone is putting in their best.


    So they are. James pushed himself back to his feet, giving Chance a curious nce before inclining his head and striding back over to his chair beside the other man.


    The girl was still ring in his direction, but shed wiped most of the mud off her face with the handkerchief. Chance smiled at her, which only served to make her features tighten even further.


    <em>Whoopsie. Really screwed that one. She didnt seem very nice anyway, though. Better this than wasting Bes time when shes trying to cultivate. </em>


    And so, with most of the introductions already inadvertently out of the way, Chance had nothing better to do but cultivate. He cycled the Essence flowing through his Gate, crossing his legs and leaning back and waiting for the trial to get started.

 Chapter 72: Original Scene

    Chapter 72: Original Scene


    Be opened her eyes around an hourter. A few more cultivators had piled into the chairs around them while shed been meditating, but none of them paid her or Chance any mind. Only a few minutes after she woke up, one of the Dancing Cloud sect members walked into the center of the square and raised a hand to get their attention. The light chatter fell away as everyone turned their gazes to the man.


    Thank you all foring, he said, letting his hand drop. My name is Jerrin. Ill be overseeing the trial for the cultivators today. Unlike the normal trials, theres really no need to force you all to go through a dozen hoops just to get to the point where we examine you personally. You are eligible to join our sect by virtue of being cultivators.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce, but Jerrin wasnt done. He lifted a finger into the air.


    Of course, that is provided that you are <em>actually </em>cultivators. To my disappointment, I have found that some people asionally try to sneak past the trials by pretending to be stronger than they are. For this reason, we will be measuring the amount of Essence in your body.


    Two sect members walked out of the tent behind them carrying a man sized marble pir. They slowly brought it over to the center of the square and set it down in the grass with a thump. The pir was carved with intricate designs and covered with runes that glimmered with faint white energy. A clear orb sat at its top, as clear as ss.


    This, Jerrin said, cing a hand on the pir, is a quaint little device called a Feedback Resistor. It was designed by an Earthling several years ago, and weve found it to work to great sess. You pour Essence into it, and the device will return your Essence to you. It will gradually make it more difficult for your Essence to pass through it until you are no longer able to send any more. That will give us a rough estimate of your strength.


    Ive never heard of something like that, a thin, wispy haired cultivator asked. He adjusted a pair of miniscule sses on his face. How is it made?


    Yexal, right? Jerrin asked, ncing at the man. We are not opposed to talking to you about its design after the trials are over, but I dont want to waste any of our kind visitors time.


    Im a visitor.


    One of many, Jerrin said with a smile. But, since youre so interested, would you like to go first? Please try your hardest. Insufficient Essence will result in an immediate disqualification.


    The thin man sighed and walked up to the pir. He put a hand on the orb and raised an eyebrow. Like this?


    A tiny tendril of green smoke curled out from where his palm touched the orb. It swirled within the orb, slowly expanding to fill its space. Yexals eyes narrowed and he pressed his lips together. He pushed his hand harder against the pir. The green smoke turned a slightly darker shade, then gradually shifted to a faint yellow.


    Sweat trickled down the side of the mans face and he gritted his teeth, letting out a snarl. The smoke turned the slightest bit darker, then dispersed with a faint puff. Jerrin pulled Yexals hand off the orb. The Resistor has determined you were not increasing the amount of Essence flowing through it, so there was no point for you to continue.


    Quite an interesting device, Yexal said, rubbing his palm. He opened his mouth to say more, then closed it and walked back to take a seat. The rest of the cultivators quickly rushed to form a line in front of it.


    Be and Chance joined in, making it roughly around the middle of the group. Chance leaned to the side to get a better view of the orb as people tried their hand on it. The vast majority of them only managed to get the color of the orb into the dark green or light yellow, though one man couldnt activate it at all.


    He was taken back to the tent by a Dancing Cloud member, protesting the entire way.


    Idiot, one of the cultivators in front of Chance muttered. Just because theres lesspetition to get in as a cultivator doesnt mean itll be easier.


    The line continued onward. Like Jerrin had said, it was quite efficient. Chance spotted James giving him a small wave as therge man approached the orb and casually pressed two fingers to it.


    Red smoke instantly bloomed in the center of the orb. It spread throughout it, turning the translucent spherepletely opaque within seconds. Jerrins eyebrows rose when James dropped his hand before being instructed to.


    Good enough, yes? James asked.


    Quite, Jerrin said.


    James strode back to his chair and sat down. He spotted Chance watching him and gave him a small nod.


    Whos that? Be asked.


    Someone I ran into while you were cultivating, Chance replied. He seemed nice enough.


    Be frowned. I see.


    What? Is something wrong?


    No, I dont think so. Be shook her head. I didnt realize anything had happened while I was practicing. You should have woken me up.


    Its no problem. I didnt want to interrupt you while you were working, Chance replied. There was another pretty rude cultivator, but I think shes dealt with. James was pretty nice.


    Thats good, Be said, but she didnt sound too convinced. In the future, dont worry about messing up my cultivating. Id rather be able to help you out in case you need it than find out something bad happened while I was basically sleeping.


    Ill keep that in mind, Chance said.


    Thest cultivators in front of them finished up at the orb and went back to their seats. Jerrins eyebrows twitched as he saw them.


    Please put your hand on the Resistor, he said.


    Be stepped forward andid her palm against the device. Green smoke filled it, quickly darkening to yellow. It slowed, but continued changing shades until it was a dim orange. Be narrowed her eyes, but the color of the smoke didnt change any further.


    Thats very impressive, Jerrin said, giving Be a second look over as she let her hand drop. Especially for someone of your age.


    Be just nodded and stepped to the side to make room for Chance. He approached the orb andid his palm against the ss. It was surprisingly warm to the touch, like an oven that had just been turned on a few seconds ago.


    Chance cycled his Essence and heat bloomed in his Gate, spreading out through his body and toward his fingertips. He pushed it out of his hand and into the orb. The smooth ss grew warmer as he felt the Essence return back through his body.


    <em>That feels kind of nice, actually. Like a miniature massage. </em>


    Green smoke poured into the orb, pooling at its bottom and quickly rising to fill it. Chance increased the amount of Essence he was channeling, forcing the device to match his intensity.


    It was much easier than hed expected. Chance continued to increase the amount of power flowing through him. There wasnt much resistanceing from the Resistor at all. But, just as he was starting to getfortable, what felt like an invisible wall sprouted in his Essences path.


    The smoke darkened to a dull yellow, then turned dark golden, just a shade below orange. More and more resistance mounted against Chances palm, struggling to keep him from pushing any more Essence into the Feedback Resistor.


    He gritted his teeth, pushing even harder. The smoke shifted to orange. It grew a few shades darker, turning to a ruddy, burnt dirt color before draining away. Chance dropped his hand and let out a breath.


    Both of you? Jerrin asked, staring at them and shaking his head in disbelief. Thats impressive indeed.


    Thanks, Chance said. He and Be sat back down and Chance flexed his fingers, pursing his lips as he stared at his palm.


    What? Be asked. Id say we did pretty good. Well above average.


    Yeah, Chance said. Thats true. Did you notice any sharp increases in resistance when you were using that device? Or was it smoother?


    Pretty smooth, Be replied. She lowered her tone to a whisper. It steadily ramped up until I didnt want to put any more Essence in. It probably isnt a good idea to show the full scope of our strength, so I stopped early. Why?


    It didnt feel very smooth for me. I think something might be wrong with the device. Did you break it?


    I dont think so.


    They looked up at the line, but it was proceeding as if nothing had changed. Another man managed to get the smoke to turn orange, and the one after him got it to a light shade of pink before giving up.


    Youre sure something was off? Be asked.


    I mean, it certainly felt like it. I dont have any way to know for sure.


    I guess theres no way to know for sure now. Be scrunched her nose. Thats not good, though. It looks like its functioning perfectly fine now, so that means someone might have been trying to mess with you. When you said you had some trouble with a rude cultivator, just how bad was it?


    She might have tripped and fallen into a mud puddle.


    Be scanned the crowd. Where is she?


    Chance looked up, then blinked. He looked over the group again. It wasnt veryrge, so it shouldnt have been too difficult for him to spot the girl, but there was no sight of her.


    Thats weird. I cant see her anywhere.


    Bes frown deepened. I dont like this. Keep your


    Guard up, Chance finished with a nod. I know.


    The rest of the line went by quickly, and all the cultivators took their seats again. Dancing Cloud members dragged the Resistor back into the tent.


    Thank you all, Jerrin said. Please hold your breath for a moment.


    Confused, Chance followed the mans instructions. There were several pops as roughly half the cultivators sitting in the circle vanished. Chance shot a panicked nce in Bes direction, but she was still there.


    Feel free to rx again, Jerrin said. We have undone the Essence binding the cultivators that failed to make the cut on the first trial. This should also serve as warning for all of you. You are not full members, and we can send you away from this ce at any moment. There will not be second chances.


    Does this mean we all passed? one of the remaining cultivators asked.


    Youve passed the first stage, Jerrin said with a nod. In a manner of speaking, you have all been epted into our sect, should you still wish to join.


    Will you tell us more about it now? Chance asked. Were still a little in the dark about what exactly it is that you expect from us.


    Soon, Jerrin promised. I assure you that we are a very open ended group. We require little from you and will not restrict any activities that you do in your free time. Our only restrictions are that you must respect the city while you are in it.


    So what are we waiting for? another cultivator asked.


    As soon to be members, we will provide all of you with cultivation supplies, Jerrin said. However, we want to ensure that only the mostpetent cultivators receive our aid. There is no point spending money on someone whocks strength. All of you will receive an equal amount of cultivation pills. However, if you challenge one of the cultivators around you and defeat them in a fight, you will earn their reward.


    Chances eyes widened, but none of the other people looked surprised in the slightest. They just nodded, as if this were the most natural thing in the world.


    You are not required to fight, but refusing will result in the immediate forfeiture of any pills you have earned, Jerrin said. Would anybody like to begin by issuing a challenge?


    The cultivators eyed each other, all trying to figure out who the easiest target would be. Several of them looked to Chance and Be because of their age, but theyd also seen the color the orb had turned for both of them.


    A cloaked girl stepped out of the thin crowd, mud stains still on her face and clothes. She strode straight up to Chance, stopping several paces away and pointing at him. I will. I challenge this cultivator.

 Chapter 73: Something you deserve

    Chapter 73: Something you deserve


    Who are you? Be asked, stepping between them. I didnt see you taking the trials.


    Does it matter? Im challenging him. And I did take the trial, thank you very much. You just missed it because you werent paying attention.


    Be shot a look at Chance, who shook his head. I didnt see her taking it either.


    She is indeed one of the participants that have been approved to make it to the next stage, Jerrin said, but there was a small frown on his face. This is a sanctioned challenge. You may refuse it if you wish, but thates with the forfeiture of any supplies you would have earned.


    Ill fight. Im not giving my stuff up that easily, but I could have sworn I didnt see her doing the test. Did anyone else?


    The other cultivators shuffled their feet and cast their nces to the side. Nobody answered the question. Chance shrugged and handed his case of pills to Be.


    Could you hold onto that for a little? I dont want it to get damaged while Im fighting.


    If youre sure. Something feels off to me, though, Be said. She shot Jerrin a sharp nce. Not the most above-board way to do things that Ive seen.


    Im afraid it all falls within the rules of what is legal, Jerrin said apologetically. The cultivator hasnt done anything that would give us cause to intercede. Would everyone please back up to give these two some room? If you get injured while they fight, youll have only yourself to me.


    The other cultivators all retreated to their chairs, leaving Chance and the cloaked girl alone in the center of the square. Jerrin moved off to the side, remaining close enough to officiate the match but keeping enough distance to avoid getting hit by stray attacks.


    This match will go until one party either admits defeat or is unable to continue, Jerrin said. Are you both prepared?


    Chance drew a deep breath and let it out slowly. With it went the stress of all the eyes on him and the imminent fight. A small grin pulled the corners of his lips up. The only emotions remaining in him were excitement and joy.


    Lets do this. Ill be treating you like a cultivator this time, miss.


    The girl narrowed her eyes in response. She shifted her weight, lowering into a fighting stance and raising her hands like a brawler without breaking eye contact with Chance.


    Begin! Jerrin called.


    Chances bracelet snapped outward, forming into an urumi and expanding before thest notes of Jerrins voice had faded away. The girl threw herself to the side, but she wasnt fast enough to avoid the sudden attack. The des carved through her cloak and scraped along something metal on her back with a loud screech.


    She stumbled, and Chance was upon her. His knee shed up, driving into her nose with a loud crunch. To Chances surprise, the strike didnt faze her in the slightest. She lunged for him and he spun, redirecting and sending the girl stumbling to the side.


    His urumi whistled back into its sword form and he swayed, watching her movements carefully. Showing no signs of any strategy, she charged him again, holding her arms wide in an attempt to grab him in a bear hug.


    Chance threw himself into a roll, going straight between her legs and shing his urumi as he rose up behind her. Another loud screech rang out. He bobbed, dodging another reckless attack, then wove a leg between hers and hooked one of her legs while thrusting his shoulder into her stomach.


    She mmed into the ground with a heavy thud. Chances instincts made him roll with her instead of following the attack up. He tumbled across the muddy ground and spun, raising his urumi just before a throwing knife nged into it. The weapon spun off to the side andnded in the mud beside him.


    Its like she doesnt feel pain at all, one of the cultivators behind Chance muttered. Scary girl.


    Im more impressed with the kid, another one said. He moves like a master. Hes got to have some pretty strong backing, I tell you. Not a good move to mess with him.


    Chance ignored them. Golden mist poured out around him as he cycled his Gate. It pooled on the ground around him and flowed toward the girl as she rose to her feet, her face expressionless.


    Youve got an interesting fighting style, Chance said, spinning out of the way as she leaped at him. He mmed the hilt of his urumi into the back of her head as she flew past. She didnt even grunt in pain. The girl just hit the ground and spun, charging him again.


    Golden mist slipped into her cloak and wound up her legs as she passed through it. Her foot caught on a rock and she went crashing down again. She hit the mud with a p, but managed to turn the awkward fall into a vault,unching herself feet-first toward Chance.


    He leaped into the air, thrusting his urumi downward as she passed directly beneath him. She managed to twist, avoiding taking the strike square in the center of the chest. Instead, it scraped along her side as if it had connected with a breastte.


    She thudded to the ground and rolled to her feet. Chance cocked his head to the side.


    No blood. How much armor do you have? Actually, dont answer that. Its way more fun to find out on my own.


    Heughed, dashing toward her. He spun, releasing his urumi and transforming into a tornado of jagged metal. She raised her hands defensively in front of her face, and the des scored across her forearms  once more, earning nothing but the screech of metal on metal.


    Chance vaulted out of the way as she threw several hidden throwing knives, narrowly missing him with each one, then sent the urumi whistling for her. She dodged to the side and it whistled under her arm.


    Gotcha. A wide grin stretched across Chances face and he yanked the de to the side. It snaked around her, winding twice before grating against itself and binding tightly around her body. Metal groaned and screeched in protest. If shed been a normal human, the move would have bisected her into a dozen chunks. Good thing youve got that armor. Its pretty cool, you know. Would be cooler if you werent so rude, though.


    Thanks, James said from behind him.


    Chances instincts screamed at him and he lunged to the side, dropping the hilt of his urumi in the process. A massive broadsword split through the air, passing so close to him that Chance felt the wind cut across his skin.


    James pulled the de free of the ground, cursing. Hed somehow stepped into a small patch of mud, causing his swing to go awry by just enough for Chance to avoid it. He ripped his foot free of the muck with a squelch.


    Lucky bastard, James growled.


    What are you doing? Be darted forward, but Jerrin grabbed her by the shoulder before she could attack.


    Stop, Jerrin said. Hes part of the fight.


    What are you talking about? Be demanded, knocking Jerrins hand away. A sh of pain washed over the proctors face and he yanked his wrist back, wincing.


    Its fine, Be, Chance said, not taking his eyes off James. Thats a neat trick.


    Dont you think? James asked. The girl trudged up beside him, her eyes dead. James flicked the hilt of the urumi binding her, and it fell into the mud. You cant be trying to tell me you saw through it.


    Nope. No idea whats going on, Chance admitted.


    Little shit, James said. He cracked his neck and raised his sword. The girl stepped up beside him. Her arms whirred as her hands split apart and two long des emerged from her wrists. This is my construct, Tamara. Usually, people dont get to see the puppetmaster fight. You should be honored.


    Chances gaze flicked down to his urumi. Cheap trick. I know a puppetmaster, and you arent him. It''s a shame. You seemed like a decent enough guy.


    "We''ll see about that. And it''s not my fault you''re gullible. I''ll be taking those pills of yours while we''re at this. I can put them to better use than you can."


    Chance opened his third eye. Strands of karma erupted all around James, but not a single one was connected to Tamara. Evidently, she wasnt even a monster. She was just a very humanoid looking weapon.


    James grunted. Well see about that. Ive given you enough time to surrender. Your blood is on your hands.


    He and Tamara charged forward as one. Golden mist swelled around Chance and his grin widened as Essence thumped through his body, invigorating every single cell. He threw himself forward, sliding straight between the two, hooking his finger onto a strand of Karma as he passed by.


    Chancended in a hand stand, then vaulted to his feet with augh. A golden fist materialized in the air beside James and mmed into his cheek, sending the man reeling. James hit the ground hard as the fist mmed into his stomach again. A heavily armored man materialized from the mist, rearing back to strike him again.


    Tamara mmed into it, her des tearing through the Essence and shredding it to pieces. James staggered to his feet and wiped a trickle of blood from his nose, ring furiously at Chance.


    What do you cultivate?


    Chanceughed again. He pulled his urumi from the ground and flicked it, sending mud sttering everywhere as it whistled back into its resting position. Something you deserve.


    James snarled. Tamara blurred toward Chance, moving faster than she had before. But things were different this time  she wasnt a human. Chance hadnt been going easy, but he had no desires to kill another cultivator that really didnt deserve it. A robot, on the other hand, was an entirely different story.


    Essence poured into Chances urumi, empowering it. Golden mist whirled around him, forming into a rough cloak behind his back as he lunged, thrusting the de straight at her neck. His body contorted and he leaned back, allowing Tamaras arm des to whistle harmlessly above his nose.


    His urumi carved through her neck and bit deep into her metallic chest, slicing along her body effortlessly with the aid of the Essence coursing through it. Chance spun, mming his knee into Tamaras chest and sending the construct rolling across the ground.


    It creaked, starting to rise, and his urumi whistled through the air once more, even as James charged at him. The urumi split Tamara clean in two. Her arms fell to the sides as the top half of her body pitched backward, crashing into the mud.


    Chance lowered his center of mass and staggered forward, driving his shoulder into Jamess stomach. The air burst from the mans lungs in a grunt and he staggered back, only to find Chances elbow mming into the back of his head.


    Blows rained down on James and he dropped his sword, desperately trying to defend himself. Every time he went to block, Chances fists were somewhere else. And, when he did manage to stop the iling hands, a knee mmed straight into his sr plexus.


    James choked on blood pouring into his throat from his nose. His eyes shot over to his fallen sword and he lunged for it  and straight into a kick. His head snapped back and he skidded across the mud, sliding up to his sword.


    His fingers twitched as he reached out for it. Then his hand flopped to the mud and he moved no more beyond the instinctual faint, ragged gasps for air. Chance swayed in ce, watching James for any signs of another trick.


    One participant is no longer able to continue the fight, Jerrin said, unable to mask the awe in his voice. This challenge is over.

 Chapter 74: Pyramid

    Chapter 74: Pyramid


    Chances urumi snapped back around his wrist and the golden mist receded. Stunned stares bored into him from the surrounding cultivators. He wiped some of the mud from his face and flicked it onto the ground, grimacing as the thrill of the fight faded.


    Jerrin snapped his fingers. James and Tamara shimmered, vanishing from the wet ground and leaving nothing behind.


    If Im not mistaken, I get his materials now, right? Chance asked.


    You do, Jerrin said with a curt nod. And Id say you earned them. Five mid rank cultivation aids, so a total of ten for you. Impressive fight.


    An attendant jogged up and handed Jerrin two pouches, which he passed to Chance. Chance tossed them into his case, together with all the other pills hed stored up.


    <em>Thats it? I guess thats a pretty good signing bonus for a sect that doesnt actually require anything from you. </em>


    Thank you. Chance walked back to Be. She gave him his case back and they sat back in their chairs.


    Well done, Be said. You had me worried for a second. That was a pretty dirty trick that the other cultivator pulled.


    Chance shrugged. Yeah, kind of. Is there such a thing as a dirty trick in a fight, though? He was just using his powers to the best of his ability, like I was. If I had some sneaky ability, Id use it too.


    Be blinked. Then she frowned. Dont make me feel sorry for him. He was a dick.


    Not arguing with that. Chance grinned. I think he intentionally antagonized me while you were cultivating to see if I was strong, then decided I was too nave or soft and thought Id be an easy target. Guess that didnt work out for him too well.


    Be nodded. Several cultivators were still watching them warily, as if Be or Chance were a hairs width away from snapping and trying to kill everyone in the area.


    Any other challengers? Jerrin asked, clearing his throat to try and get some attention back to himself. Ill be honest, we typically prefer to thin the herd a little more before continuing. We dont exactly have that many pills to give out.


    Im not challenging the kid, a cultivator muttered. Hes a smiling demon.


    I bet the girl with him is even worse, another one added, sending a worried nce at Be. Shit, shes ring at me. Dont look in her direction.


    Chance cocked an eyebrow at Be and she sighed, looking away from the cultivator.


    Come on, Jerrin said, practically begging. What about someone else? Those two arent the only ones here, you know. Dont forget they could challenge <em>you </em>if you arent fighting someone else.


    That worked better than anything Jerrin had said yet. Several people immediately leapt to their feet and rushed up to him, challenging each other. Chance leaned closer to Be as Jerrin prepared next two fighters.


    Why is everyone so surprised at us not being terrible at our age? I thought you said that the younger a cultivator was, the more likely theyre actually really powerful and just immortal.


    Its because were not in a Schr-City, Be replied. Powerful cultivators like that arent going to be wandering around in the open very often. They congregate in powerful cities like Gleam. So when there are people that are fairly powerful at our age


    Ah. Theyre either probably in trouble or on the run, which is why James thought I might have been a good target. Maybe he thought I was just a spoiled kid who pissed his parents off, Chance said, nodding his understanding. Gotcha.


    He nced at the cultivators fighting in the center of the square. They were talented enough, but he had to admit that they werent nearly as good as the students hed seen in the Shikari Tournament, much less someone like Pete.


    Chance reached into his case and pulled out some more lower quality cultivation aids. He popped them into his mouth and chewed thoughtfully as one of the cultivators forced the other to surrender.


    The loser trudged back to his chair in shame while Jerrin congratted the other man and gave him his allotted pills. The next few cultivators stepped out and the fights continued for the next few minutes. Chance didnt pay them much attention, instead focusing on his cultivation.


    He was getting so little out of using the weaker cultivation aids at this point that the pills were borderline useless. It was about time to start using some of his better ones. Chance resolved to save the rest of the low level pills for Be, since theyd be vastly more useful to her than they would be on him.


    Thest of the fights wrapped up after just under an hour. A little less than half of the cultivators remained. Aside from Chance and Be, there were only five others. None of them had been particrly interesting to Chance, but he couldnt help but notice that there was no sign of the Redhand bandits.


    When he voiced that observation to Be, she shrugged.


    Maybe they decided to wait for another day? Their boss still hadnt returned after all. To be honest, it might be best if they dont apply. Theyre still bandits, you know.


    Fair enough, Chance admitted. Brent had been such an amiable guy that he wanted to believe the whole bandit shtick was just the man ying around rather than actually being a murderer, but after a few months on Centurion, Chance knew better than that. It didnt hurt to pretend, though.


    It looks like were all wrapped up, Jerrin said with a pleased smile. Much better. Id like to formally invite all of you to the ranks of the Dancing Cloud sect. Please make no mistake. While we aid those with talent, all those who proved themselves to have potential in the first test will still be allowed into the sect if they pass another set of trials. We do not pridebat ability over everything  just most things. They are simply being treated for their injuries before they continue.


    Whys that matter to us? a short, stout cultivator with a receding hairline asked.


    Hes warning us not to be idiots and fight everyone we see, another man said. They want capable cultivators, not bloodthirsty fools.


    Precisely. Jerrin reached into his pockets and pulled out a stack of wooden emblems. He walked down the short line of cultivators, handing them out. These will grant you entrance to the floating city from any point. Theyre one time use, so dont waste it. If you want another, you can buy one. For now, since were already on the ind, you can just walk in. Youll learn the rest soon enough.


    Chance turned the wooden badge over in his hands. It had a simple engraving of a cloud on one side, with a circle of straight-lined runes on the other.


    We can just stroll in? the stout cultivator asked.


    You passed the trials, Jerrin replied. Nothing other than these initial supplies will be free, and youll find that you cant buy most things here with gold. We require contribution points, which you can only earn from doing things for the sect.


    Nobody looked all too surprised at that revtion. The cultivators wandered off toward the city, muttering amongst themselves. Chance and Be didnt budge from their spots. Jerrin nced at them, a small frown crossing his face.


    Is something amiss?


    Im just trying to determine what you gain from this, Chance said. I dont mean to cause offense, but youre giving free supplies and granting cultivators ess to your flying, protected city for basically nothing in return, arent you? That doesnt seem like a sustainable business model.


    Jerrin smiled. Ah. I understand your worry. Thends below us are dangerous and fraught with threat. As a sect, we have the power to be a little more open with who we allow in. Make no mistake, we are not altruistic beyond belief. You are cultivators, not worthless mortals. You would defend yourself from attack, no?


    Of course I would.


    Then what do you think would happen if someone were to attack our city?


    Ah. Its a militia that you dont have to pay for.


    Precisely, Jerrin said with a nod. And that is not a secret. Cultivatorse here knowing that they can practice and train mostly in peace, with ess to many of the supplies that they could only get in a schr-city. In exchange, if we do get attacked, they defend their temporary home. It is a symbiotic rtionship.


    I see, Chance said. But what if we dont want to defend the area when you get attacked?


    Then you leave, but do not expect to be let back in.


    Thats fair enough, Be said. What about leaving normally? These tokens let us into the city. How do we get out of it?


    There are a multitude of waypoints throughout the city. Touching any of them will return you to the location on the ground that you left from, Jerrin replied. Alternatively, you can purchase transport to another location, but it costs contribution points. You wont get that unless you help us out.


    Fair enough, Chance said. Thanks for the honesty.


    Of course. It doesnt help me to lie, especially to people such as you, Jerrin said. A sly grin crossed his face. After all, Id very much like if you stayed, and lying tends to have the adverse effect. We have use for talented cultivators such as yourselves.


    Thank you. Well go check the city out, then, Chance said. He and Be nodded to Jerrin, then started after the other cultivators toward the city proper.


    Chance waited until theyd put enough distance between themselves and Jerrin to be out of earshot before he spoke again.


    I think this whole thing is kind of a pyramid scheme.


    Pyramid scheme? Be asked. What pyramid? This looks like a normal city.


    Not a physical one, Chanceughed. Its a phrase from Earth. Its a scam of sorts. The guy at the top has all the money. He recruits some people and gives them a tiny portion of it if they recruit even more people. That keeps going down, with the vast majority of the money remaining at the top while all the work is done by people at the bottom.


    Ah, I see. The contribution points are us doing all the stuff that the city actually needs done.


    Yeah, I bet everything is crazy overpriced here, Chance said with a nod. It seems safe enough, though. I dont think Jerrin was lying. What do you think?


    The same. Even if their prices are high, as long as we get the bare minimum of what we need, this is safer than below. We can train here for a while, which has the added benefit of lessening our chance to run into any Shikari. I guess it depends on just how bad their prices really are.

 Chapter 75: Stories

    Chapter 75: Stories


    Jeez, Yeo flicked the blood from his kusarigama onto the grass at his feet. How many of you are they going to send?


    As many as it takes, the wounded Shikari across from him growled, leaning heavily on his broadsword. Dozens of weeping, crisscrossing wounds covered the mans body. His chest rose and fell with heavy breaths as he struggled to gain the energy to attack again.


    Maybe theyre just using me to dispose of the trash, Yeo offered, spinning his kusarigama at his side. Did you piss someone off recently?


    You bastard! the man let out a bellowing roar and charged Yeo. A ck line carved through the air. Blood sttered across Yeo as the man fell apart, carved into half a dozen neat pieces.


    Seriously? Yeo cursed, wiping his face off. What are you doing? Do you have any idea how long it takes to make my hair look right in the morning?


    A thin man stepped out from thin air, a slender ck de held loosely in his left hand. Long hair hung over his shoulder in a ponytail. A deep, ragged scar ran along one side of his temple to the other, right across his closed eyes.


    You were ying with your food.


    I was training, Yeo snapped.


    Training against a weak opponent is not training. You must seek challenges.


    Bah. Hes only weak if I use your stupid sword, Yeo said, pulling the ck hilt out and staring at it in disgust. Boring  not to mentionpletely useless in the long run. Im trying to train my Essence here, not just win.


    The thin man didnt respond. He set off down the cobbled road and Yeo fell in behind him.


    That marks the fifth Shikari that hase after you, but he too was a third rank. Even with your refusal to use the tools at your disposal, you are still performing admirably. If you would just toss aside these foolish ns, you might actually improve at a respectable rate.


    Nope. That wasnt the deal, Yeo said with a cheerful grin. Im not looking for a shortcut. I want to be a real cultivator, not a beggar licking the scraps of someone elses path. Unlike you.


    The mans scarred brow creased in anger. Watch your words, impudent child. I am your teacher, not your friend.


    And Im also the only person you talk to. Yeo rolled his eyes. Its not like youve got much choice, big man. Im fulfilling my part of the deal. No part of it included sucking up to you. Besides, you cant possibly want me to just walk around praising you. That would get boring so quickly.


    I couldnt imagine, the scarred man said dryly. Do you even remember my name?


    Uh lets move on. Names are such a trivial thing, you know? There has to be something more importanting up soon. Dont we have something to kill?


    Reas. Is that so difficult to remember? My name is Reas.


    Sure, sure. Yeo waved a hand dismissively. Look, can we get to the fun part? You promised me that there was a really good way to train somewhere over here, but Im not seeing it.


    Thats because we havent even gotten to the forest yet, Reas said. Its two more days of travel. We could have just gone directly there if you hadnt insisted on going the scenic route. I do believe I warned you this would happen.


    Bah. Going directly there is stupid. Yeo crossed his arms. A real story would have a long, arduous journey leading up to things.


    Reas raised an eyebrow.


    Okay, I didnt think it would be quite this boring, Yeo admitted, his shoulders slumping. I was hoping there would be more. Bandits, or something. You know? Not just a bunch of Shikari.


    It is beyond me how you find the threat from Shikari lesser than that posed by a mere bandit.


    Youve got it all wrong. Yeo raised his hands, making a square with his fingers. He peered through it at the dead Shikari. Its about the way you frame things. Bandits are fresh and new. Ive already gone through enough Shikari. A story needs some variety. How am I supposed to retell this if everything is just crushing the same opponents?


    Reas let out a heavy sigh. Not a day goes by where I dont regret forming a contract with you.


    Maybe you would have preferred my brother.


    Reas didnt open his eyes, but Yeo could tell the man would have red at him if he could have.


    We both know that isnt true. Hecked the drive to be truly powerful.


    Then you should be thankful that Im the one youre working with. There are a lot worse things in this world than a smart mouth and a pretty face.


    If you think you have either of those two things, you are sorely mistaken.


    As if Id take your opinion. You cant even see what I look like.


    I dont need to, Reas said tly. I know far more about you than I would wish to. Enough of this, or youll have even more Shikari muddling up your boring story. The forest is only a little bit farther, and then we can actually get started on some real training.


    Fine, fine. You think Chance and Be are doing okay? I hope they havent gotten too many Shikari going after them.


    Considering who theyre tied up with, I dont think its even our ce to worry, Reas said grimly. If he wished them dead, then they would already be gone. We were lucky that his gaze passed over us. I have no doubt that you would have managed to offend him if you spoke for any amount of time. Once you grow in strength, then you can worry about others.


    Yeo grunted. Fair enough. Which direction was that forest in again?


    ***


    Dancing Clouds floating city was a lot better stocked than Chance and Be had been expecting. Merchants lined the streets, watching the passersby with hawklike eyes. None of them called out to get their attention, but their goods shimmered with enough Essence to draw even the most uninterested eye.


    Theyre more polite than I expected, Chance observed as they stopped by one of the stalls to inspect the mans collection of medicinal pills. I always pictured market squares to be really loud and energetic, with people yelling to get your attention.


    I bet the sect has rules for the merchants to avoid bothering cultivators, Be said, examining a vial before setting it back down on its velvet pillow. Theyve got some pretty high quality things here. What do these go for? Im not seeing any prices.


    That particr cultivation aid would be fifty contribution points, the elderly shop owner said, rubbing his wrinkled hands together and giving them a wide smile. A deal, far better than you would find in most cities below.


    Whats the conversion rate between contribution points and gold? Chance asked.


    Ah, you must both be new, the merchant said, acting as if he hadnt known from the very start that Chance and Be had never set foot on the floating ind before today. There is no conversion rate. You have to do jobs for the sect.


    Chance wrinkled his nose. I see. Is there somewhere we could check the list of things we could do in order to get contribution points?


    Of course. Theres arge board on nearly everyrge intersection with the lower level requests. There are also boards in the inns, the merchant said. Higher level sect members can also issue contribution points at their discretion, but I wouldnt count on anything like that if youve only just joined.


    Thank you, Chance said. Do you happen to sell anything for gold?


    Basic supplies and healing pills. Thats about it. Its a lot more effective for me to sell things through the sect, Im afraid. There are quite a few ways to earn contribution points, though. Im certain youll have no trouble.


    They bid him farewell and set back off along the path. Just like the merchant had said, after only a minute or two of walking, they reached an intersection between two major roads. It wasnt anywhere near as busy as Gleams streets, and Chance was able to easily make out a long stone board at the edge of the street.


    It was covered with papers that had been slotted into it, and half a dozen people stood along the board, studying the offerings on it. Chance and Be joined their ranks.


    The merchant had been right  there were certainly a lot of offers. The jobs on the papers ranged from tasks as simple as helping to clear debris from fights around the city to more traditional jobs like hunting monsters on the world below to collect specific parts. The pay on them ranged fairly widely, but the majority of the jobs paid between one and five contribution points.


    Thats a pretty decent conversion rate, Be said, rubbing her chin. But I do think this would technically be faster than trying to earn the supplies in Gl  a schr city, assuming you progressed at a normal pace without winning any tournaments or the like.


    So Chance waggled a hand back and forth and made a face. Be nodded.


    Yeah. It might not be a bad idea at all. Its better than wandering around on the ground aimlessly, but I get the feeling that housing is going to cost contribution points as well.


    It does, a man beside them said. Five a week.


    So basically one slightly more difficult job, Chance said. Thats not too bad. If we did eleven jobs a week, we could probably afford some fairly useful gear.


    The cultivator chuckled. I remember thinking the same thing. Dont get me wrong, the Dancing Cloud sect have some great offers, but its not so easy to go around hunting monsters all day. Youll be lucky to do one or two quests before having to pay for healing and losing most of your money. You two new cultivators?


    Newish, Chance said.


    <em>A few months is pretty new, after all. </em>


    Id suggest sticking to some easier ones, then. Less risk, and itll give you some time to get to rank two. You dont want to get into debt from getting injured too quickly, the cultivator advised. He pulled a paper from the board and rolled it up, stuffing it into a pocket. Once you decide on something, just find one of the guardhouses and show it to them so they can put it in your name.


    Thanks for the advice, Be said. Do you know if the quests on the other boards are the same as the ones on this one?


    Just about.


    Good to know. Oh, do you happen to know how much it costs for a teleportation to a specific location?


    Around one hundred contribution points, if I recall correctly, the cultivator replied. I havent had much reason to use it since its much safer to just hang around here. Good luck, though.


    He headed off, merging with the thin crowd. Chance and Be returned their gazes to the board.


    What do you think? Be asked.


    Cant hurt to stick around for a bit, Chance said. He pulled one of the papers from the board. What about doing this? It pays five contribution points and just involves killing something called Windchuckers. Have you heard of those?


    Ive never fought any, but I think Ive heard some Shikari mention them before, Be replied. I dont recall them saying they were very strong.


    We could ask the guards before we ept the job.


    As good as an idea as any, Be said with a nod.


    Chance rolled the paper up and stuffed it into a pocket. They left the board, crossing the street and heading in search of a guard post.

 Chapter 76: Lin

    Chapter 76: Lin


    The task proved to be easier than expected. Chance and Be spotted a squat guard building within just a few minutes of looking around. It was made of in stone, and a single, bored guard sat behind a counter, his chin rested on his palm and fingers drumming against his cheeks.


    He nced at them as the door creaked open and poorly hid a yawn. Can I help you?


    Were looking for some information, Chance said. We only just joined the Dancing Cloud sect, and we were looking to do a job to get some contribution points.


    Yup, yup. You got a quest decided on? the guard scratched at the patchy beard on his neck and wiped his nose with the back of a sleeve.


    Well, we were hoping you might be able to give us some advice. Weve never heard of a Windchucker before. What kind of monster is it?


    Windchuckers? Theyre basically birds full of hatred. Big, nasty things. Theyre not too deadly, but theyre mean. Ive seen a few people get cut up real bad by them.


    How would theypare to something like a Soothound? Be asked.


    The guard straightened slightly as he thought. He rubbed his chin, then gave them a small shrug. Theyre probably a little harder to kill, but less dangerous overall. I cant be for sure, though. Been a good bit since Ist fought a Soothound. There arent really many of those out here.


    This quest should probably be okay, then. Chance held the furled up job paper to the guard. He took it, giving him a quizzical nce before shrugging once more.


    Suite yourself. Names?


    Chance.


    Be.


    The guard jotted their information down. He reached under his desk and pulled out two wooden tokens. Shuffling through a pile of random scraps at the bottom of the counter, the guard pulled out a pencil-sized piece of metal with a pointed tip. He pressed its tip to the wooden rune, and a faint trial of smoke rose up from it as it started to burn.


    Muttering under his breath, the guard nced from the job paper to the rune and slowly copied a rune over from it. Once hed finished, he repeated the process. He slid both newly carved runes across the table.


    Chance picked one of them up. It was still warm, and the wood was rough to the touch like tree bark. The token felt like it could break at the slightest amount of force applied to it.


    Those will take you to the area that requested help. Just break them whenever youre ready, the guard said through a yawn. Theyll give you more tokens to return you here once youre finished.


    Chance nced down at the token. He paused for a moment, then looked back to the guard. Say, about housing, how do we get it? A cultivator mentioned it cost around five contribution points a week. Where can we get that?


    There should be some cultivator housing near the center of the city. Its simple enough to move in. Just show up when youve got enough contribution points.


    The guard slumped back down, staring nkly off into the distance and clearly ending the conversation. Chance and Be exchanged an amused look, then walked outside the guardhouse.


    Shall we? Be asked. Unless you wanted to look around at other shops to see what they had to offer?


    Chance shook his head. Nah. Lets just get the contribution points and check out some housing. Id like a ce where I can cultivate in peace, without having to worry about getting jumped by someone.


    Be nodded in agreement, and they both broke the wooden tokens between their fingertips. Essence swirled around both of them and they were yanked away with a subtle pop, leaving the spot theyd been standing on in the street empty.


    ***


    Lin sat, legs crossed, on the sunny hilltop. Warmth bore down on his body, enveloping him in aforting nket as a gentle wind rustled through his hair and caressed his bare chest. He was content.


    It had been so difficult to find peace in recent days. There were just far too many issues that constantly demanded his attention. Finding time to sit around and simply do nothing was bing more and more of a luxury, but it was one that Lin was determined to ensure he could afford.


    If there was no time to sit and enjoy the greatest of lifes blessings, then there was no point to living at all. The Essence burning throughout his body sung in agreement with his mind. He cycled it through his muscles, enjoying the prickling feeling of difort as he forced his body to grow.


    In life, there were three things that Lin loved. Peace, the feeling of forcing his body to the absolute limits, and


    A fly buzzed in Lins ear. His tranquil smile flickered for a moment, but he didnt let his eyes open. Perhaps it would leave.


    It buzzed again.


    Lin gathered his Essence and sent a tiny amount of it out, enveloping himself in a gentle cloak of gold. Insects were generally smart enough to realize when death was imminent, and would take the warning as a chance to leave and bother someone else.


    This one did not. Its incessant buzzing grew louder. Lins eyes cracked open, his moment of peace ruined, and he looked down at the small man standing before him. The man wore fine metal armor and carried two long swords at his waist. Both of them held just enough Essence to warn Lin that the des were more than just mere metal.


    Despite the formidable weaponry the insect carried, Lin was a head taller than the man even while he was sitting.


    What, Lin rumbled, a cold note in his voice, do you want?


    The man held out a metal badge. Lin didnt bother even looking at it. He just cocked his head to the side and raised an eyebrow.


    Im on an important mission, the man said, pushing his long ck hair out of the way of his face. Im hunting a criminal, you see. One thats killed several Shikari. I believe I have tracked his whereabouts to this location, and as a cultivator yourself, I would like to interview you about any suspicious travelers you may have seen recently.


    I do not wish to be interviewed.


    I apologize, but this is not a request, the man said, cing his hands on the hilts of his swords. Sharp, cutting Essence washed out from him, running across Lins tanned skin like hot knives.


    Lins eyes narrowed and his own Essence surged, strengthening his Aura and pushing the intruding Essence back. The man relented, pulling back but keeping enough of his strength unleashed to block Lins own Essence from growing too close.


    I am Shae, the man said. A Baron ranked Shikari. I have no quarrel with you, but any refusal to cooperate with me will be seen as a direct challenge of Gleams authority.


    Lin kept a smile from crossing his face. He studied Shae for a few seconds, then gave the man a single nod. You may ask your question, then. My peace has already been ruined. I do not believe I have encountered the person which you ask after.


    Thank you for your cooperation. The criminal is approximately this tall, Shae held his hand up to his eye level, and has blonde hair and white skin. He is likely to be travelling with a girl the same age.


    Lin tilted his head to the side, pursing his lips as if in deep thought. The prickle of the sun against his skin called to him, begging Lin to return to his cultivation and cease wasting time with the bothersome creature before him.


    Girl? Are you chasing children? If they were powerful cultivators, I suspect Gleam would have sent more than a Baron.


    Shae gave Lin a tight smile. They are dangerous, but they are not powerful. Not yet. That may change if left unchecked, though. The two of them have already killed a Knight rank cultivator and are fleeing our might. Have youe into contact with either of them?


    Are you listening to me? Shae asked. Please, bear with me for just one second.


    Lin let out a slow sigh. I have not met anyone with such description  especially not one that seemed like they would be hunting Shikari. Your search will have to continue, for I have nothing to offer but your death, should you continue to interfere with my cultivation.


    Shae pressed his lips together. The Essence swirling around him grew stronger, pressing toward Lin, but his own energy poured out to meet it. The two men stood locked in ce for several seconds. Then Shae inclined his head and took a step back.


    I see. Thank you for your time. If you happen toe across the people I have described, please seek out a Shikari at your soonest possible convenience. Lives could depend on this.


    Hold on, Lin said.


    Shae paused. Yes?


    What were their names? In case I happen to hear them.


    Chance and Be.


    Lin grunted and closed his eyes again. A few momentster, he felt Shaes sharp essence peel away as the man left. Lin remained motionless for a few more moments, then slowly let his eyes open again.


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out a ss vial with a glowing golden pill nestled within it. The energy radiating off it wormed into Lins senses even though it was sealed away, begging for him to pop the seal off and eat it.


    Lin smiled and slipped the pill back into his clothes. He rose to his feet, arching his back and stretching out like the worldsrgest, ugliest cat.


    So thats your name, Lin said, running his tongue along his lips and lowering his hands. Chance. Apt. What a curious little criminal.

 Chapter 77: Housing

    Chapter 77: Housing


    Chance and Be popped into existence in a dark street. Faint wisps of fog curled around their feet, slithering away as they arrived. Tall buildings rose up all around them, blocking out much of the suns light.


    Large tufts of straw sprouted from several broken windows above them, and the ground was littered with the same. Distributed amongst it were small pieces of metal, armor, and an ufortable amount of bleached white bones. Some looked fresher than others, but most of them couldnt have belonged to anythingrger than a small dog.


    A lone guard stood several paces away, covered in in metal armor. He stood at attention, watching them curiously from his spot at the end of the street.


    You here to deal with the Windchuckers? the guard asked, beckoning them over.


    Yeah, Chance replied. I take it theyre somewhere in these buildings?


    The guard nodded. Several of them. Ive been keeping an eye on the location, but after I roasted one of them, the rest of the flock have been pretty hesitant toe out and fight. It would do far too much damage to the city to root them out normally, which is where you weaker cultivatorse in.


    Why not just use a Ward? Chance asked.


    The guard snorted. Good one. Maybe Ill just call the Shikari in as well. While Im at it, Id like a breakfast of high grade cultivation aids and the finest steak that you can imagine. Do we look like one of the great Schr Cities to you, boy?


    Sorry, Chance said with an awkward chuckle. Ive never been in a big city like this, but Id heard rumors.


    The guards gaze softened. Dont worry about it, Im just giving you a hard time. I was much the same when I was your age. Dont you fret  even if our Dancing Cloud sect isnt one of the great cities of Centurion, this is still a fantastic ce to live. Who knows, maybe youll make enough of a name for yourself that youll be invited to one of the cities in time.


    Reaching into his pockets, the guard pulled out two thin wooden badges pinched between his fingers. He them to Chance and Be.


    Those will send you back to the location youst used a badge from. Please try to refrain from using them unless you havepleted the task or are critically injured. Bailing out of a job before it isplete will result in a ban from taking simr difficulty jobs for a month.


    Understood, Be said. Do you know anything about the Windchuckers before we head in there?


    There are somewhere around eight, the guard replied, chewing his lower lip. The pack leader is a nasty bugger. Hes bigger than the rest and has a red streak of feathers. Be careful of him. Im pretty sure hes managed to open his Gate and has some basic cultivation abilities. The rest of them are as standard as the pests get. Neither of you have a very powerful aura, so you should be able to bait them out just by sitting around.


    Are you nning to help if they alle out? Chance asked.


    The guard chuckled. I doubt theyll emerge close enough for me to do anything. If I see anything, Ill obviously try to aid you. But my main task is making sure they dont go any farther in this direction and spread to the rest of the city. There are other guards stationed around the area as well. If you manage to lure the Windchuckers over to one of us and we kill them, that works too. Just get rid of them.


    Noted, Chance said. Thanks for the information.


    Good luck, the guard replied, raising his hand in farewell as they turned and headed deeper into the dark streets.


    They walked for several minutes, turning down the tight roads. More bones littered the ground the deeper they got, bringing with them the scent of offal and carrion. Chance wrinkled his nose in distaste.


    Its kind of like the Old City, but stinky.


    Im surprised Im saying this, but I definitely preferred the Old City, Be said, nodding in agreement. She paused for a moment. Actually, Im not sure if thats true. Didnt you say it was basically an endless maze?


    Yeah.


    Definitely prefer this ce, then. At least I know I can get out of here. It must have been aplete nightmare to be trapped alone in the Old City for weeks, Be said, shuddering. I dont think my sanity would have survived.


    Dont let Ocie here you say that. It might get offended, Chance said with a chuckle. His grin faded and he shook his head in mild awe at the huge piles of straw and bone covering the ground. Its impressive that just a few birds managed to make this much of a mess.


    Far above them, something thumped. They both looked up at a nest protruding from a cracked wall, but nothing was there. Arge bone pitched down from the nest and shattered against a stone jutting out from the ground. Chance and Be exchanged a nce.


    That sounded pretty big, Be said.


    Chance reached into his Gate and called on his Essence. Heat blossomed in his heart and spread throughout his chest as it traveled toward his hands and feet. His bracelet slithered down into his palm, unfurling into its urumi form.


    Really big, Chance agreed. He sent Essence into his forehead and opened his third eye, scanning the air for strands of karma. Almost immediately, ck golden threads materialized all throughout the air, crisscrossing and leading into the buildings.


    They here? Be asked.


    Oh yeah. All around us, Chance said, turning in a slow circle. And Im pretty sure there are more than eight. Its hard to tell with all the strands going everywhere, but


    Be shoved Chance to the ground and raised her hands in front of her face. Jagged ws screeched as the struck her skin and rebounded off them. Chance rolled to his feet, his eyes widening as he got his first look at a Windchucker.


    Whoever had thought it apt to call them big birds had something wrong with their head. Sure, the Windchucker had feathers and did vaguely resemble a bird, but that was where the simrities ended.


    The monster stood nearly eight feet tall. Its feathers looked to be closer to a silvery metal that should have been far too heavy to fly as silently as it just had. Two wide, bulbous eyes protruded from either side of its head like those of a frog.


    It cked its beak, revealing several rows of serrated teeth and a forked tongue that slipped out to taste the air. The monster fluttered its wings, somehow making absolutely noise despite the material it was made from.


    Chance raised his urumi, hiding a grimace. He tossed his case of pills to the side. Thanks. Man, that thing is ugly.


    Kill it, Be ground out. Talkter.


    Chance flicked his urumi. At the same time, golden mist poured out from his body and enveloped him. The de scraped along the ground and snapped up at thest second. Screeching, the Windchucker leapt into the air with a heavy beat of its wings. It narrowly avoided the wicked tip of the Urumi, but Chance wasnt done.


    He darted forward, spinning and sending the segmented de whistling out again. The Windchucker hopped back and pped its wings to try to take to the air. As silent as it was, the monster wasnt particrly fast on the ground  and it paid the price for daring tond.


    Chances urumi carved clean through the Windchuckers right wing, severing it at the bone with a metallic ring. It screeched in pain, and Chance flicked his wrist, retracting the de. It whistled back into ce just in time for him to send it slithering out once more, silencing the Windchucker permanently.


    The monster fell to the ground in a pool of its blood, falling still.


    Good job, Be said. I didnt even get a chance to do anything. Heh. Chance.


    Thats low hanging fruit, Chance said. He looked up at the strands of karma hanging around them. And youre about to. I dont think this things friends are too happy we killed it.


    Arent they supposed to be scared of threats?


    Evidently, we arent threatening enough.


    Well have to work on that, Be said, lowering into a fighting stance.


    Several dark forms leapt off the rooftops, their wings snapping open soundlessly as they plummeted toward Chance and Be. Out of the corner of his eye, Chance caught two more of the monsters watching them from a dark perch, waiting for a moment to swoop in while they were distracted.


    A grin grew on Chances face as he let his Essence fill more of his body. He and Be nodded at each other and threw themselves into the fight, meeting the Windchuckers in battle. A loud squawk echoed through the streets as Be snagged one of the monsters by the ws and swung it into a wall with all her might.


    Chances urumi whipped out, decapitating the creature before he spun it around himself, keeping another Windchucker at bay before spinning after it,ughing the entire time. Several more of the monsters joined the fight, but they quickly met the same end as the others.


    The back of Chances neck prickled and his footnded in a puddle of blood. He slipped, pitching forward into a roll and springing back to his feet as a white crescent of energy carved through the ground where hed been standing.


    A ten-foot tall Windchucker swooped through the air, brilliant red feathers covering its belly. Chance sent his urumi darting after the bird, but it was already out of reach. Itunched itself upward, then turned and came back by for another swoop, this time targeting Be.


    Be! Chance called.


    Be threw the Windchucker shed been fighting to the side and nced up. The red-crested Windchucker flicked its ws, sending another crescent of white energy shooting toward her.


    Instead of trying to dodge it, Be grabbed a Windchuckers corpse and hurled it up at the other monster. Its eyes widened in surprise and it banked upward, but her aim was urate and the two monsters collided in the air with a metallic crash.


    Chance darted forward and brought his urumi down with all his might, infusing Essence through it. Golden mist swirled around the de as it cut through the air and came down on top of both monsters.


    It cut clean through both of them, striking the ground with a ng before he pulled it back to its resting position. Chance and Be spun, searching the sky for any more signs of the monsters, but there were none.


    The streets were empty aside from the fading echoes of their fight and the sounds of their breathing. No more strands of karma hung in the air, having all been severed with the deaths of the monsters.


    Chance closed his third eye and let the golden mist encircling him fade as he pulled his Essence back. His urumi snapped back around his wrist, returning to its bracelet form.


    That went well. Thanks for the save at the start, Chance said. Are you okay, though? I saw you get hit right in the chest with an attack.


    No problem, and Im fine, Be replied. She plucked at her shirt, which now had a long cut running straight through the middle, and grimaced. Im going to need a new shirt, though.


    Im sure we can find something for gold. I think this counts as a sessful job, though. It wasnt too hard at all.


    Maybe we should try to get something that pays better and is more challenging, Be suggested. After we check out the housing, though. Id like to take some time to rest.


    Agreed, Chance said. He walked over to where hed thrown his case and picked it back up, quickly checking the contents to make sure nothing had been broken. Its been a while since I got to really sit down and cultivate for a while. Shall we go tell the guards the problem is taken care of?


    Be grinned and nodded. Yeah, lets. Im excited to see what kind of housing were going to get.

 Chapter 78: Paperwork

    Chapter 78: Paperwork


    No luck? the guard asked with a wry smile as Chance and Be stepped out from the streets after having retraced their steps.


    No, we got all of them as far as we could tell, Chance replied. I hope we werent supposed to collect the bodies or anything, though. There were a few too many to carry.


    The guards eyebrows twitched upward in mild surprise. Seriously? That was pretty fast. Youre sure you got them all? The job wont pay out if you missed any, and you might be fined for reporting a job finished when it isnt.


    Were certain, Be said firmly. No more Windchuckers were in the area when we were finished fighting, and we killed the one you mentioned with the red feathers.


    Well, Ill be damned, the guard said, shaking his head slowly. In that case, good job. Well send someone in to make sure the area is cleared out properly, and Ill report that youvepleted the job. The contribution points will be assigned to your name, and you can use them as you see fit. If the job is found to be iplete, they will be removed from your ount or you will be put into debt if you have already spent them.


    Sounds good, Chance said. He held the thin wood token that the guard had given him up. Thanks for the tips. We can just break this, then?


    You can. I have to ask, how old are you two? You look young enough to be my kids, but if you managed to handle the birds that easily, youve got to be at least Rank Two.


    Around twenty, Chance replied with a grin. And weve just been practicing for a while, you know?


    The guard grunted. Making me feel like Im cking off. Best of luck to you both.


    Chance and Be thanked him again, then broke their badges. As soon as the wood snapped, energy swirled around the two and they vanished, sucked through space by the Essence stored within the badges.


    They both reappeared outside the guard house with a pair of subtle pops. Chance blinked, as a small wave of disorientation washed over him. A man stepped out of the guardhouse and strode past them, shaking Chance out of his momentary trance.


    Thats a bit weird, Chance said. Still better than flying around on a giant sewer grate with Joe, though. That was terrifying.


    I kind of liked it, Be admitted with a sheepish grin. It was fun to fly around that fast. Im looking forward to being able to do it myself.


    Chance wrinkled his nose in distaste. I hope you fly better than Joe does. He was a psychopath.


    No promises. Beughed. A man stepped past them and entered the guard house, giving them a small frown as he passed.


    I think were a little bit in the way of traffic, Chance said. He and Be stepped away from the center of the road and walked over to an empty bench alongside it.


    The crowds in the city had grown a little busier since theyd arrived, but they were still far thinner than anything that Gleam had to offer. Part of Chance had expected less variation in the people outside of Gleam, sincerger cities tended to be more diverse, but he was surprised to find that just as many people here had tails, wings, or other bodily modifications.


    Shall we get to finding out about housing? Be asked.


    Chance nodded. Yeah. Sorry, I just got a little distracted.


    No problem. Ill ask the guards where we should head really quick. Give me a second. Be headed back inside the guardhouse. She returned a minuteter and gave Chance a grin. Follow me.


    They headed through the city, weaving through the crowds and making their way toward its center. Chance had to keep himself from getting too badly distracted by the merchants or buildings as they passed, and several times he nearly ended up veering away from Be before he jogged to catch back up with her.


    After a little under half an hour of walking and an unintentional tour of the city, the two of them arrived at a group of streets full of tightly packed square buildings. They towered over the surrounding structures like a cluster of spears sticking out from the city.


    There was little difference between each of them, and while they werent exactly ugly to look at, they were far from beautiful. They reminded Chance of many high rise apartments hed seen back on Earth, except these didnt have balconies.


    I think theres an office around here somewhere, Be said as they came to a stop to study the area.


    Is it that? Chance asked, pointing at a squat, square building near the base of one of the taller ones. Its stone doors hung open, and the windows along it were slightlyrger than the ones of the structures around it.


    Through the windows, Chance could see what looked like a fairly basic waiting room and several bored looking men and women sitting at a counter. Bes eyes lit up and she nodded, crossing the street to head over to it.


    Chance followed her inside. The faint scent of roses and what he could only describe as the scent of vague disappointment greeted him as his feet fell on old wooden floor. They headed over to the nearest worker at the counter, a middle aged woman with greying hair wearingrge spectacles. Her desk waspletely covered with papers and trash, to the point where she had to strain slightly to see above it. She hid a yawn behind her hand Chance and Be approached her.


    Wee to the housing office. Im Barbara. What can I do for you today? she asked through her yawn.


    We just joined the Dancing Cloud sect and are looking to get housing. We were told this was the area to check.


    Barbara gave them a slow nod. Youre in the right ce. What kind of housing are you looking for? And have youpleted any jobs for the sect yet? We do not currently offer any housing opportunities for gold, but I can get set you up on a payment n if you need


    Weve already done a job, Chance said, gently interrupting what he suspected was about to turn into a long, incredibly boring speech. Weve got five contribution points, as far as I know. A cultivator told us that five would be enough.


    Weve got some smaller rooms for five points, Barbara said, yawning again. There are two models that will fit your current budget. The first is a single bed with a kitchen, and the second is a double bed without one.


    I think well go with the double bed, Chance said. I dont exactly understand how the contribution points work yet, though. We werent actually given anything, are they just tied to our name or something?


    They are, Barbara said, shuffling through some papers on her desk in search of something. Ill just have to reference your names and confirm that you have the funds you im, and then youll be all set after a little paperwork.


    A minute of ufortable silence passed as she continued ruffling through her desk before she finally let out a satisfied grunt, finally pulling out a wooden hexagon the size of a te from what Chance strongly suspected was a trash can. She pushed the pile of paper out of the way and set the te down with a small thud.


    There we go. What are your names?


    Chance.


    Be.


    She muttered something under her breath, then pushed the te toward them. Please ce your hands on the wood.


    They both obliged. A faint trickle of Essence tickled Chances palm before several runes lit up along its edges. They took their hands off and Bertha took the te back. She gave it a quick nce, then tossed it back into the pile of papers sticking out of the trash can.


    Youre confirmed. You have 5 contribution points between the two of you, although they job theyre from hasnt been verified yet. Would you like to utilize them to purchase housing for one month?


    Chance and Be nodded.


    Very well, Barbara said. She rooted around her papers for a few more minutes, gathering several sheets and sweeping the rest off her desk and onto the ground by her feet. She reached into her dress and pulled out a small, rune covered quill.


    Barbara pushed several papers across the table toward them and handed Be the quill. Just sign a few forms and youll be all set.


    Be read through the papers, then took the quill and started to sign. While she worked, Barbara ducked under her desk. A few minutester, Be pushed the papers back over to Chance and gave him the quill.


    He scanned through them. Even though he didnt have much to reference, they seemed standard enough. There were far too many uses to count about taking care of the property and not damaging anything as well as a multitude ofmon sense requirements and rules. There wasnt anything that set off any rms, so he signed his name next to Bes on all the nk lines.


    Were finished, Be said once Chance put the quill down.


    Oh, just a few more, Barbara said, straightening back up with a one foot tall stack of papers in her arms. She mmed it to the desk with a grunt on top of the ones theyd just signed and pushed it back over to them.


    Chance and Be stared at them in disbelief. Barbara yawned and sat back in her chair, closing her eyes. Wake me up when youve finished or if you need anything exined. Actually, just wake me up when youre done. Forget the exining part, I dont know whats in them either. Have fun.

 Chapter 79: Bella

    Chapter 79: Be


    Three hours. Four, if Chance counted the time it took Barbara to find yet another stack of papers shed somehow misced. That was how long it took them to fill out all the documents and get the keys to their room.


    By the time Chance and Be finally left the office and found their room on the fifth floor of one of the tall, square buildings, both of them were a gentle wind from being dead inside.


    Be pushed the small metal key theyd spent a good part of the day trying to get into the keyhole. It didnt move. She narrowed her eyes and gave it a sharp twist. There was a brassy click and the door creaked open, revealing the room behind it.


    Two in beds sat on either side of it, each with a white sheet and ratty pillow at its head. There was a single square window in the center of the wall. It was covered by a thinyer of dust, and the view through it was of the street below.


    Not the most weing room Ive ever been in, Be muttered as they headed inside.


    Chance flopped down onto his bed. It bounced slightly and he grinned, bouncing a few more times before stopping when it gave him a slight creak of warning. Its got a bed!


    Most rooms have beds, Be pointed out. Id have been pretty pissed if we went through all that crap only to find out that our room came bedless.


    Chance patted his pillow, checking it for bugs before nodding in satisfaction and testing it out. Not everywhere Ive been has a bed, and its been a while since west had one. Its still nice.


    Be opened her mouth, then closed it slowly. She sat down on her own bed, testing how much give it had. She shifted, then stood back up and headed over to the window and peered through it.


    Its fine if you dont want to answer this, but what exactly did you do when you were back on Earth? Before you were here?


    Not much, Chance replied, sitting up and fluffing his pillow. Just kind of hung around, really. I guess I went to school for a while, but that seems like it was so long ago.


    Id heard that people on Earth have a bunch of teachers that cover different topics, rather than a mentor that went over everything. But the way you say it makes it sound like you werent getting taught before you got sent to Gleam. Did you finish?


    Chance waggled his hand from side to side. Not really. There was more, but I didnt really get to doing it. I couldnt afford it.


    Schooling costs money? But your city would benefit from your increased talent.


    Its a long story, Chance said with a chuckle. I was nning on getting more, to be honest. Not because I loved it or anything, but thats just kind of what a lot of people do.


    Why didnt you?


    Well, my parents got killed by a truck.


    Truck?


    A big carriage.


    Oh. Im sorry. You were looking for them in Gleam, werent you? Be asked, averting her gaze.


    I put a bit of a pause on it, Chance admitted. A part of me hopes that theyre somewhere on Centurion, even though I know thats not very likely. Theyre probably just dead.


    Im sorry.


    Its fine. Its not like there was anything that could have been done about it, Chance said. Thats just how life is sometimes. All I can do is make the best of it.


    Be fiddled with the window until it creaked open, allowing a refreshing breeze to enter the room. It kicked up all the dust on the windowsill and she sneezed. Be waved the dust away, rubbing at her nose with her finger.


    Is that why you appreciate normal things so much? I dont think Ive met anyone that was excited to find a bed in their room, even after traveling without one for a few weeks.


    Well, there was a little while in my life where I didnt have much of anything. No bed, no change of clothes, just whatever I had on me and in my pockets. Honestly, it wasnt even all that long. It felt long, though. Makes it a lot easier to realize what youve got after you dont have anything, you know?


    Be fell silent for several seconds. She stared out the window at the empty street below them. I never really thought about it like that.


    Just some stuff my dad taught me, Chance said with a grin. You dont have to feel bad about it. I would have loved to somehow save my parents, but thats not something anyone can change. What I can change is the lives of people I meet now, and Im happy I was able toe to Centurion. Ive lived more here than I ever did on Earth.


    Be pushed away from the window. She stood in the center of the room for a few moments, her face unreadable. Chances grin faded slightly as he caught the look in her eyes.


    Are you okay?


    I  Im just thinking, I guess, Be replied. About what I could have done differently.


    No point beating yourself up over the past. The only thing we can change is the future.


    Be let out a bark of bitterughter. Yeah, thats a great thing to go by if you dont actually regret anything you did in the past.


    I guess thats true.


    They were silent for a few moments. Be remained where she stood, perfectly between the beds and across from the window.


    Do you want to talk about it? Chance asked.


    Why? It wouldnt change anything.


    It might make you feel better, though.


    Why does that matter? Be asked, turning away from the window to look at him. Its in the past.


    If its still bothering you, then Id say its in the present as well.


    Be opened her mouth. Then she let it close. Chance scooted farther down his bed to make space and sent a pointed nce at the space hed made. Be snorted, but she slowly walked over and sat down beside him.


    They sat silently for nearly a minute.


    My parents died as well, Be said, finally finding her voice again. But I could have done something about it.


    ***


    Rain poured down over the town in sheets. Be stared out of the window with wide eyes as shes lit the sky in the distance. Shed had to stack a few pillows to get tall enough to actually see out of it, but it would have been worth it if she could catch a glimpse of a real cultivator.


    A rumble shook the heavens, and a brilliant sh of lightning screamed through the sky. It split the thick gray clouds apart, and the resulting shockwave struck the town like the roar of a furious god.


    Be flinched as the window rattled and her precarious stack nearly gave out, but she managed to catch herself on the windowsill before she could fall.


    Get down from there, Be. Its dangerous. A set of calloused hands gently picked Be up from her perch and set her back on the ground.


    Dad! Ill be fine, Beined, kicking her feet. Put me back up! I wanna see the cultivators.


    Youll get a chance to see cultivators soon enough, honey, her father said, ruffling her hair. There was a steely tone of stress beneath his words. He pulled the curtains shut over the window, blocking out the rain. Cultivators are fantastic, but these two are bad men, okay? We can go see a real cultivatorter.


    Be frowned, but her fathers hands guided her away from the window and deeper into the house. She cast onest nce at the window over her shoulder, watching as the lightning illuminated two distant figures far in the clouds above before they were cast into darkness once more.


    Wheres mom? Be asked.


    Shes getting your brother. Shell be back soon.


    The worry in her fathers voice was thicker this time, like he was speaking through a mouthful of mud. His fingers tightened slightly around Bes shoulders. She and Tim will be back soon enough. We just need to sit tight for them. Your mom is big and strong. She can fend for herself, you know.


    Be nodded eagerly. Mom is a Shikari! She could beat those bad men up.


    Her father chuckled. Mom is retired, Be. She doesnt do any more beating up. The bad men wont pay us any attention as long as we stay out of sight, okay?


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small deck of cards, fanning them out between his fingers. Bes eyes traced the cards as one of them danced to the front, flipping itself around to reveal its face to her.


    I havent told you the story about the story of this card, have I?


    You have. At least ten times, dad.


    His face fell in exaggerated disappointment. Oh. I see. I guess you dont want to hear


    Be flopped down at stared up at him with expectant eyes. A small smirk flickered across her fathers face and he started toy cards out,unching into a story. Ten had been a gross underexaggeration hed told it to her more times than she could remember, and it changed every retelling.


    That didnt stop her from listening intently, clinging onto every word he spoke. Minutes ticked by, and the rain continued to batter down on their rooftop. The cards seemed less lifelike in her fathers hands than they normally were. Several times, he fumbled slightly and nearly dropped them, and Be spotted several tricks that normally would have sailed right beneath her nose.


    Several loud thuds echoed through the house, from the direction of the door. Cards spilled across the ground as Be and her father scrambled to her feet.


    Stay here, her father said, sprinting for the door. Be, of course, darted after him as fast as her small legs would carry her. As they ran past the window, Be slowed. She darted up to it and pushed the curtain to the side, squinting into the night.


    The storm still raged outside, but the thick gray clouds had peeled away from a small area in the sky. A man floated in the air, a sea of sickly green and blue energy swirling around him. Be stared at him, trying to make his features out through the pouring rain.


    A bang echoed through the house as her father yanked the door open. He drew in a startled gasp, and Be yanked her eyes away from the window.


    Dad?


    He didnt respond. Be started toward him.


    Stay back!


    Be froze. Shed never heard such fervor in her fathers voice  but that only served to push her curiosity even further.


    What is it? Is mom there?


    Her father drew a shaky breath. He pushed the door shut and locked it. No. Moms not there. Shes going to be staying outside with Tim today.


    In the rain?


    She likes the rain. His voice broke slightly, but his face remained t. He strode forward and grabbed Be, pulling her toward the back of the house.


    The window rattled as a peal of thunder shook the house. Be craned her head back, trying to see what her father had been looking at. She let out a startled yelp. Water was pouring through the window and down over their couch.


    The window!


    Forget the window! Just


    There was a sound like that of a watermelon being split by a knife. He staggered, his eyes widening. Be, go to the safe room. Now.


    But


    Now! he roared. And close the door behind you. Ill join soon.


    Be spun and sprinted away, all thoughts of curiosity dead. She flew down the halls and sprinted into the small room at the back of the house. Grabbing onto the heavy metal door, she heaved it shut with all the strength in her small arms.


    If the hinges hadnt been so well oiled, it would have been impossible. Even with their smooth movement, the door still closed at the speed of a crawling snail. The instant it mmed into ce, Be grabbed a crank wheel and spun it, locking thetch with a thick piece of steel.


    Theyd had practice in running to the safe room before, but Be had never seen her father quite this serious about it. She stared at the door, trembling, for several seconds. Be leaned against the wall and slid down, hugging her knees to her chest.


    Then she waited.


    The roar of the rain outside didnt abate. Even here, she could hear its furious blows pouring down on the house above.


    Something wet touched the bottom of Bes shoe. She yelped, scrambling back and looking down at the floor. A puddle had formed at the base of the door, and it was quickly expanding.


    The water churned and twisted into ropey vines that meshed together and melted into the shape of a person. His dark hair hung damp around his shoulders, and his eyes were as cold as ice.


    A cultivator, Be breathed, staring at him with wide, terrified eyes. Were you the one at the door?


    The man paused. Then he tilted his head to the side, a flicker of a smile passing across his lips. No. Is that really the first question you have for me?


    Be swallowed. She scooted away until her back hit the wall. Dad? Dad?


    Hes a little preupied, Im afraid, the man said, resting his hand on the door. Do you like cultivators much, girl?


    Be swallowed, then gave him a small nod. Why isnt my dad here?


    I liked your first question more, the man said. He stepped closer and leaned down, peering into Bes eyes. You look just like her. How amusing.


    Bes body screamed at her to run, but there was nowhere to go. She held his gaze, desperately fighting against her instincts. There was no ground left to give. Who are you?


    I  an old acquaintance of your parents, the man replied. Do you know what that word means? Acquaintance?


    Like a friend, Be said, swallowing. Her parents had never mentioned being friends with cultivators, but theyd also refused to let her meet any. Maybe they did know him.


    Yes, that works. Im here to help you, the man said. His lips split apart in what was likely meant to be a reassuring smile, but it was anything but. Your mom and dad are hurt. They sent me to ask you for help.


    Mom and Dad are hurt? What happened? Be asked, scrambling up to her feet.


    The cultivator spun the wheel on the door, unlocking it. It swung outward and he stepped out into the hall.


    Come. If you dont act quickly, they may not survive at all.


    Be sprinted past the man. She skidded to a stop as she reached the front of the house, her eyes going wide. Her fathery face down on the ground, a pool of blood spreading around him and mixing with the rain pouring in through the window.


    Daddy! Be screamed, nearly slipping in blood as she ran up to him and grabbed his shoulder. Dad? Are you okay?


    Im afraid hes going to die, the cultivator said, stepping from the darkness behind her. You see that hole in his back? Thats his heart. Clean through.


    Be spun toward the cultivator. Help him! Please! Cultivators can do anything!


    Im afraid I wont, the man said. But  I told you. You can.


    How? Be begged. Please!


    The cultivator extended a hand. I will give you the strength to do it yourself. It is the only way. Then you will do me a favor in return. How about that?


    Be grabbed his hand. Thunder pealed outside, and the rain poured down even harder. A sh of lightning lit his face. Energy poured into Bes body like a torrent of me. She screamed in pain and crumpled to the ground beside her father.

 Chapter 80: & Announcement: Cultivation

    Chapter 80: & Announcement: Cultivation


    Be trailed off and fell silent. Her hands tightened on the sheets at her sides, bunching them up. Chance waited for a few seconds to see if she would say anything else, but she didnt. He let a few moments pass before speaking.


    What happened next? Chance asked softly.


    I failed, Be replied. I wasnt strong enough to keep from passing out. My dad died next to me, and I found my mothers corpse outside the door when I woke up.


    You cant me yourself for that. You were a kid!


    I know that, Be said, her eyes firmly fixed on the wooden floor. But I could have saved them nheless.


    The person that showed up  it was Vex, wasnt it? Chance asked.


    Be nodded. Yes. It took me far longer than it should have to realize that he was the one that actually killed my parents, and that the other cultivator that had been fighting was probably my mom trying to stop him from attacking the vige. He must have convinced her that hed fled or was defeated, then followed her back to our house.


    What a piece of shit. Chance put a hand on Bes shoulder. None of that is your fault, though. Expecting a child to be able to do anything against a cultivator of that strength is ridiculous. Its not fair to yourself.


    Except that, if I hadnt taken Vexs offer, I probably could have used my Essence to save them. Preservation, remember?


    Did you know you had it at the time?


    Be gave a small shrug. Not really. I hadnt started cultivating yet, but people can gain ess to their abilities early if theyre in a life or death situation. By taking Vexs deal, I ensured I wouldnt be able to save them.


    Which is probably why he offered it, Chance said firmly. Vex looks like he actively tries to hurt people. There was no reason for him to ever even offer you that deal. If he had the power to save your parents, he would have. You were manipted. It would have happened to anyone.


    Be finally peeled her eyes away from the ground. She gave Chance a small smile. Thanks. It feels a little better now that Ive actually told someone about it. Now that Ive put everything into words, they feel a bit stupid. It <em>is </em>pretty ridiculous to hold yourself ountable for something like that.


    Nobody said feelings are rational. But what happened next? I dont understand why Vex kept you around.


    Be grimaced. Im not sure about that part myself. He spent some time training me, then got me into Gleam and basically vanished aside from periodic checkups. It was like hed gotten bored, but he wanted to make sure he could keep screwing my life up in case it ever got better.


    Does he cultivate being an asshole?


    A snort ofughter slipped out of Bes lips. Honestly, maybe. It would fit. He never actually told me what his Essence was, but that cant be too far from it.


    Well, whatever it is, well deal with him eventually, Chance promised. He took his hand off Bes shoulder and rose to his feet. He walked over to the window and nodded out it. Look how far youvee. Before long, well be more than strong enough to kill Vex and avenge your parents.


    Be joined Chance. They stood quietly for a while. Be finally nodded, setting her jaw in determination before turning away from the window and heading back over to her side of the room. Youre right. Thanks, Chance. Im d I ran into you. I dont know what would have happened if I didnt.


    A grin crossed Chances lips. I guess you can call it luck.


    Be rolled her eyes. Thats going to get old at some point. Im feeling a bit motivated right now, though. Unless you want to go do another job, Im going to get some cultivation in.


    Same here. Ive been cking off a little recently, Chance said. He hopped back onto his bed and crossed his legs, leaning against the back wall and settling infortably. Good luck.


    You too, Be said.


    They both closed their eyes. Chance slowed his breathing, easily slipping into meditation. His Gate warmed as Essence pumped through his body and he swam deeper into the insides of his mind.


    The peace came quickly. After months of practice on Centurion, he was quite pleased with how quickly hed picked up meditation, especially after how insurmountable it had seemed at first.


    Gentle warmth enveloped Chances body as he pulled the vision of the massive golden being to the front of his mind. It was nearly impossible to remember the entire thing at once  there was simply too much toprehend.


    Instead, he focused on smaller pieces, trying to put them together like an imaginary jigsaw puzzle. Chance pictured the golden beings hands. The glowing light that poured off them, and the infinite sense of power and peace that exuded from it. A tiny frown tugged at the corners of his lips.


    <em>This isnt it. It looks like what I saw, but its not the same thing. Its empty. Missing something. Just like my fighting style before Wren helped me. But what is it?</em>


    Chance turned the image around in his mind, trying to figure out what it was that hed missed in his visualization. It wasnt the appearance of the golden being  of that much, he was certain. Its majesty was forever etched into his mind. He was pretty sure he couldnt have forgotten it, even if hed wanted to.


    But, when Chance pictured what hed seen, it was nothing inparison to the actual experience of seeing it. There was always the possibility that recreating the vision perfectly was impossible and that was what he felt was missing, but something told him that wasnt the case.


    <em>Maybe its because I need to reform everything rather than just a few pieces, and it wont feel right until the whole visiones to me naturally?</em>


    That didnt feel right either. Chance didnt have any reasoning or exnation for it, but something just told him with absolute certainty that he was wrong. The golden being was who it was, and it picturing it incorrectly wasnt going to do him any favors.


    Hours ticked by. The room was silent aside from their gentle breathing. Chance continued to cultivate, pouring all his attention into his task. He idly pulled some cultivation pills out of his case and tossed one of the mid-level ones into his mouth.


    Energy flooded his body and coursed through his Gate as he cycled it. It felt like hed been dropped into a bath of cold ice, but the feeling quickly vanished as he greedily absorbed everything that the pill had to offer.


    It didnt take long until thest vestiges of the pill had beenpletely consumed, but he didnt feel stronger by any significant margin. Chance ate another pill once he was certain the effects of the first one had faded.


    He continued in a simr manner. Chance wasnt sure how much time passed, but his eyes eventually slipped back open. He stretched his arms above his head and a series of relieving pops rang out from his back.


    An instantter, he realized that Be was still cultivating. He winced and froze. Be didnt react. Chance let out a silent breath of relief and lowered his arms, mentally scolding himself for nearly interrupting her.


    The bed let out a soft creak as Chance straightened his legs and rose to his feet. He sent another nce at Be, but she was luckily still deep within her cultivation. Chance took a bottle of the lower level cultivation aids from his case and padded across the room,ing to a stop before Be as silently as he could.


    Her chest rose and fell with deep, soft breaths. She looked serene andpletely at peace. Chance paused in front of her, realizing that this was the first time hed ever actually seen someone so deeply in meditation. It felt much more intimate than Chance had expected.


    <em>I guess thats why everyone shuts themselves up in their rooms on their own when they meditate.</em>


    Chance set the vial of pills next to Be, taking care not to disturb her. He backed away and, spotting the room key on the bed beside Be, picked it up and slipped out the door. Chance locked it as quietly as he could, then pressed his ear to it and waited for a moment to make sure he hadnt mistakenly woken Be up.


    When no sound came from the room and he was certain that she hadnt been disturbed, Chance tucked the key into his pocket and headed out of the building. Even though cultivation had kept his body sustained, he was starving.


    He stepped out into the sunlight, wincing slightly and raising a hand to block his eyes.


    I wonder what day it is, Chance said to himself. The sun was directly overhead, so it had been at least a night. He suspected it was probably longer, but by how much he wasnt sure.


    He shrugged to himself and headed off, wandering through the city. A thin cloak of golden mist trailed him as he called on his Essence. Chance closed his eyes and walked at random, taking turns whenever the fancy struck him.


    After around ten minutes of walking, he opened his eyes again. Hed made his way into a small square, surrounded on all sides by tall stone buildings. Several small food stalls had been set up along their edges, and the center of the square was full of tables. A dozen men and women sat at them, talking and eating.


    Chance grinned and chose one of the stalls at random. He walked up to it and got into the short line. It only took a minute until he was standing before a cheerful looking man wearing a stained apron. His ears stuck up on either side of his floppy chefs hat, tapering to long points.


    Young one, you are, the chef said, giving Chance a once-over. Need more meat on your bones. Youe to the right ce.


    Thats what I was hoping, Chance said. Uh do you take gold? I dont have any contribution points on me.


    The chef pped the wooden counter. No pay! You are too skinny.


    He grabbed a round loaf of bread from arge basket and pped it down. A serrated knife leapt to his hands and he carved the top of the bread open, expertly removing its center before pouring a thick, brown stew into it from a pot. He plopped a wooden spoon into it, then slid it over to Chance.


    Oh, wow. Thank you! Chance said, taking the bowl. He paused, then pulled a gold coin out and handed it to the chef.


    The man shook his head firmly. No pay.


    Not pay. A tip.


    A grin passed over the chefs face and he inclined his head, taking the coin and slipping it into a pocket. Chance picked the bowl of bread up and tasted the stew. His eyes lit up and it took a significant amount of willpower to keep himself from shoveling the rest of it into his gullet.


    This is fantastic! Could I buy another?


    That good, eh? the chef chuckled and gave him a knowing grin. Its more filling than you think!


    Oh, not for me, Chance said. For a friend.


    The cook wordlessly prepared a second bowl and pushed it over the counter. Chance went for his pockets and the chef shot him a sharp look, narrowing his eyes to slits and pointing his knife at him.


    No.


    Chance raised his hand with augh. Okay, okay. Thank you.


    Eat well. Come back.


    I will, and Ill bring my friend, Chance promised. He took the second bowl of stew and jogged back off toward their rooms, using his luck to retrace his steps.

 Chapter 81: Jade

    Chapter 81: Jade


    Chance opened the door and stepped inside, nearly walking straight into Be. They both hopped back, and Chances Essence kicked in at thest second to keep him from dropping both of the bread bowls in his hands.


    Chance! I thought something happened. You should tell me if youre Be trailed off as her eyes gravitated toward the food in Chances hands. Oh.


    I got you one, Chance said, offering her one of the bowls. Theyre really good. I hope they arent too cold, though. It was a bit of a walk, but I got hungry.


    Never mind. All is forgiven. And its still warm, Be said, spooning a mouthful of stew into her mouth. Chance followed her lead and the two quickly devoured the in but delicious meal.


    Chance wiped the corners of his lips with thest chunk of bread before popping it into his mouth and letting out a satisfied sigh.


    Im not sure if theres anything quite as good as getting a meal after cultivating. I dont think my body has gotten the message that I dont need to eat while cultivating.


    Be nodded empathetically. I swear everything tastes better right after cultivating. It was really kind of you to go get food for both of us. I think I might have cried a little if youd onlye back with one bowl.


    Yeah, that would have been prettyme, Chance said with a chuckle. Howd cultivating go on your end?


    As well as I could expect. Be shrugged and waggled a hand back and forth in the air. Progress, but nothing special. What about you?


    Its kind of weird. You know your vision, right?


    Be tilted her head to the side and gave him a small nod.


    Does it ever feel empty? Not wrong per say, but almost like youre missing a bit of it or not doing it justice when you picture it.


    Be frowned and considered his question for a few moments. She shook her head. Sorry, but not really. The moment I start thinking about my vision, ites to my mind perfectly. Im not an artist, but I could probably draw an exact rendition of it if I wanted to. It feels like something to strive toward. Perfect, almost. There doesnt feel like anythings wrong with it.


    Chance grimaced and drummed his fingers on his knees. Damn.


    Did something happen with yours?


    Nothing happened, but I realized it felt as if my memory of the vision just wasnt as good as the real thing. I wonder if Im missing something.


    Normally Id suggest that you might have too much impurity in your body, but thats clearly not the case. Be chuckled and fell silent for a moment. Her eyes caught on the empty vial of pills that Chance had given her while they were cultivating and she paused, shifting her gaze to the side. Oh, I forgot to thank you for the cultivation aids. Again. Thanks.


    Chance grabbed his case of pills and popped it open, spinning it around to show Be all the vials stuffed within it. They rattled at the motion, bouncing around with all the gold hed stuffed in alongside them.


    Ive got more than I can use. The low level aids are basicallypletely worthless now, and even the mid level ones are starting to be less useful, Chance said. He tapped the golden Enlightenment pill that Pete had insisted he not give away. Im pretty sure this and the upper end of the pills I got at the tournament are the only ones thatll actually help me.


    Be shook her head in bemused disbelief. I cant tell if Im jealous or thankful that Im not you. If you keep going through pills at this rate, youre never going to be a very rich man.


    Chance grunted. His parents faces drifted through his mind, but they were blurry and distant. As much as he hated it, their exact appearance had been fading ever since theyd died. Even the sound of their voices felt distance.


    Yeah. Im going to need to figure out what Im going to do about trying to find them, Chance said, closing his case of pills and rising from his bed. Spending that much money is a pretty big risk. I dont know if its one I can afford.


    We could pool our resources, Be offered. I dont have much right now, but we can probably earn a pretty good bit of gold while we wait for the Shikari to stop hunting us.


    I couldnt ask you to do that.


    Be raised an eyebrow and stared at him down the bridge of her nose. Seriously?


    He cleared his throat. Okay. Thanks.


    Much better. At least it gives us a goal to strive toward, and we can still spend money on cultivation stuff whenever we need it. Why dont we go check out what jobs we can do? If theyre all as easy as that bird mission, I think we might be able to earn a pretty fair bit of money.


    Chance grinned. That sounds good to me.


    The two headed out of the room, locking the door behind them, and made their way back toward the nearest guard outpost to find more missions toplete.


    ***


    Jade shifted her weight, bringing her broadsword to bear just before the massive Soothound mmed into her. She staggered back with a curse, barely managing to redirect the huge monster into the wall.


    It struck the stone with a loud crunch, but she already knew the blow would do little more than stun it. Jade drew on her Essence, empowering her sword with the purifying light of the sun. The de lit a brilliant golden glow and she brought it down on the monsters back, cleaving it in two.


    The Soothound screeched in pain, pulling itself toward her with its front legs even as its back half pitched back and crashed to the ground. Before the light in its filthy eyes could fade, Jade plunged her holy de into the monsters skull, putting it out of its misery.


    As soon as she pulled the sword free, the ward shed established flickered and faded away. Jade flicked the sickly blood from her sword and slid it back into the sheathe at her side with a sigh.


    Well done, Captain Gibson said, giving her a curt nod. One of your fastest hunts yet, Jade. And that was a fairlyrge Soothound too.


    Its a Soothound, Captain, Jade said, desperately trying and failing to keep the sarcasm from slipping into her words. It could be the size of a house and it would still be a Soothound. Theyre weak monsters. Ive been Knight ranked for months now. Why wont you let me take any jobs?


    Gibson narrowed his eyes. Because you are not prepared. You left your team immediately after you were given permission to.


    Thats the point! Jade said, exasperated. We made it to Knight rank, and then we were allowed to go off our separate ways. Thats what we did.


    The point was to build a team that you could rely on, Gibson said, rapping her on the forehead with the back of his hand. Somehow, you took that as ditch your friends at the first opportunity and go off on your own. Hence, you get to enjoy my personal tutge.


    Why do you even care? Jade demanded. Youve never bothered me before. Come on, Captain. Theres something else here. Im not stupid.


    Gibson let out a heavy sigh. He nce over his shoulder, toward the bustling street behind the alley they stood in, then back at her. She held his gaze until he shook his head.


    Theres nothing else. I may not seem like I care, but I am responsible for ensuring that every single Shikari under my protection is up to standard. I have simply been ensuring that you are.


    I have passed every single job you have given me with flying colors. There is nothing to question.


    Gibson grunted. So you have. Perhaps there are simply no suitable quests for a single Knight ranked Shikari. Have you considered that? They may only be being posted for people with groupsrge enough to ensure victory.


    Jade crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. Gibson had been hounding her ever since shed ditched her deadweight team a few weeks ago, and there was no doubt in her mind that shed somehow done something to piss him off. The problem was, she had absolutely no idea what it was. Gibson had barely ever shown interest in her before. Hed had a reputation for being a good Captain, but never anything this obsessive.


    Right, Jade said slowly. Then you wont mind me taking on an open quest thats put up for everyone?


    And what would that be?


    That group of traitors that turned on the Shikari. You cant tell me you havent heard about it. That would be a tant lie.


    Gibsons eyes darkened. Dont.


    Dont what?


    Dont take the quest.


    You cant be serious, Jade said. Theyre barely Squires, but they killed several Shikari in surprise attacks. They deserve death, Gibson. If we leave monsters like that around, can you imagine what will happen to Gleam? Its our <em>duty </em>to purge them.


    Gibsons lips pressed thin and his hands tightened at his sides. He remained silent for several moments, then opened his mouth. An instantter, he closed it, whatever words that had been set for his lips dying before they left his mind.


    Did you know them or something? Jade asked.


    I know all the Shikari that work under me.


    And?


    There is no and, Gibson said tly.


    Jade threw her hands up, no longer able to contain herself. Then theres absolutely no reason for me not to take this. Theyre getting farther from Gleam every day, but Im sure there have to be some reports on where theyre headed. I can cut at least one of them off and deal with the problem.


    Gibson raised an eyebrow. Have you forgotten they defeated a Knight ranked Shikari? Multiple?


    They were caught off guard. I wont be.


    Gibson let out a heavy sigh. This is what Im talking about. You need more training. Go find your team and ask


    Jade shook her head before Gibson could finish. No. With all due respect, Captain, your role is to protect the city and ensure were trained. I have been trained, and this is protecting the city. Im doing the job. After that, Ill have enough weight behind my name to actually take on some real jobs.


    They locked eyes, neither willing to look away first. Finally, after several grating seconds, Gibson broke their gaze and waved his hand in a clear dismissal.


    Do what you will. You said it yourself. I cant control you.


    Thank you, sir. Jade gave Gibson a sharp salute, then strode out of the alley, excitement building in her stomach. Her Essence shared in the feeling. This was what she was truly meant to do. Protecting the citizens of Gleam from those that would prey on them.


    Just one distasteful job, and Jade would make a name for herself and better the world while she was at it. She set course for a Shikari Base to officially take the job on and find out what information theyd already gathered about the fugitives.


    Gibson watched her go, his shoulders slumping slightly. He nced over his shoulder into the dark alleys of Gleam, then rubbed his forehead and straightened back up, striding out of the alley and heading down the road in the other direction.


    Both of them were oblivious to the thin strand of karma that materialized on Jades back, invisible to all but those who cultivated it. The strand rose up through the tight, busy streets of Gleam. It passed through the towering buildings and flickering signs, traveling deep into the forgotten reaches where only monsters and fools dared to walk, where it coiled around one of Yamishs fingers. A slow smile spread across his face as he felt the tremor run down the strand.


    Your next challenge of many approaches, my apprentice, Yamish said. I wonder, will this be the one to break you?

 Chapter 82: Going

    Chapter 82: Going


    Chance and Be quickly slipped into a pattern, working through several jobs every day and spending the rest of their free time cultivating and practicing. Chance quickly made his way through most of his good cultivation aids. He gave the majority of the low and mid-level pills to Be, who could put them to better use than he could.


    Between the two of them, they quickly started to amass a fair amount of contribution points. None of the jobs posed them much threat, and they were soon getting requests for jobs that paid out several times more than the ones on the board.


    Even though he was making more contribution points every single day, the majority of his earnings quickly drained away into the endless funnel of cultivation aids. The higher level ones were far from cheap, but the benefits they gave were too much to pass up on, especially without the typical drawback of building impurities.


    In that manner, two weeks passed. Chance continued to spend most of his time focusing on his vision as he cultivated, but no matter how hard he tried, he still couldnt seem to make progress on what felt off with it.


    Even so, he could feel himself continue to improve. Every fight they took went just a little easier than thest, and Chances control over Karma continued to progress. Be wasnt one to be left behind, though.


    Around midway through the two weeks, she managed totch onto inspiration. At least, that was what Chance suspected had happened. Hed woken up to Be sitting on her bed, deep in cultivation, with a thin sheet of glimmering ice covering her and the room around her.


    Luckily, it hadnt stretched far enough to get onto Chances side of the room. Less luckily, that did mean that Chance was left without a partner for his missions. It didnt slow him much, but it did make them considerably less fun.


    Part of him hoped that Ocie would join in and actually help, but the Old City hadnt shown itself again. It seemed content to let Chance do all the work while it sat around, doing whatever a pile of sentient rocks did for fun.


    On one morning, after waking up to no changes with Be, Chance headed out of the room to do a cursory check of the jobs board to see if anything interesting had been posted overnight.


    As he closed the door gently behind him, Chance turned around to find a thin man standing before him. His ck hair was pulled back in a bun, and he had arge leather sack slung over his shoulder. It bulged with letters and packages, threatening to tear and spill its contents everywhere at any moment.


    Good timing, the man said, holding a small brown paper package out.


    Is this for me? Chance asked, taking it.


    Youre Chance, yes? Or are you Be?


    Chance. What is this?


    Delivery from the Dancing Cloud sect, the man replied. Normally nobody is home so I have to shove those under the door. Much better to actually hand it to you.


    Chance looked down at the doorframe. There was barely half an inch of space when the door was closed  not nearly enough for the package in his hands to fit through. The messenger followed his gaze and chuckled.


    Yeah. Things dont always fit great, but I make it happen.


    I see, Chance said. Do you need pay for this or anything?


    Nope. Part of the job, the messenger replied, giving him a sharp salute. Have a good day.


    He strode off, stopping several rooms down the hall and pulling out another package. He rapped on the door. When nobody responded, the messenger ced the package at the base of the door and reared back, kicking it hard.


    There was a dull crunch as the package wedged itself up at an angle. The messenger stomped on it, then kicked it again. The package scraped beneath the door, and he gave it one final nudge to push it the rest of the way through.


    Giving Chance a thumbs-up, the messenger ambled down the hall and turned a corner, disappearing from view. Chance stared after him, then shook his head.


    <em>Good thing I was awake. I dont think anything in that package survived delivery.</em>


    He tore the paper open to reveal a small wooden box. It popped open when he pushed on the cover, revealing a letter on in white paper and two small wooden tokens. Chance shifted the tokens to the side and pulled the paper out.


    <em>Dear Cultivators,</em>


    <em>We are pleased to inform you that you are in the top fifteen percent of contribution point earners within the Dancing Cloud Sect this month. As a result, wed like to give you an invitation to the Azure Moon Coalitions Ancient Realm. </em>


    <em>It has been open for one week as of the time that this letter was sent, and it will remain open for a total of one month. Artifacts are scattered throughout the realm, left there from battles between mighty cultivators of ages past. Anything you find and leave with will be yours to keep  though the Dancing Cloud sect will take 20% of any gold you discover. There will be cultivators from other sects present as well. If you choose to enter the Azure Moon Realm, please make sure you are sufficiently prepared and leave before the entrance is closed. </em>


    <em>The tokens enclosed in this box will transport you to the Azure Moon Realm when broken. If you give the tokens away or otherwise lose them, we cannot offer a recement at this time. </em>


    <em>The Dancing Cloud sect is not responsible for death, injury, or losses that ur within the Azure Moon Realm. Enter at your own risk. </em>


    Chance snorted and folded the paper back up. He tucked it into the top of the box and turned back, heading into the room and putting it on the ground in the center of the room so Be would see it if she woke up while he was gone.


    He then headed out once again, making for one of the job boards in town. This time, he suffered no interruptions and reached it just a short whileter. To Chances surprise, there was a crowd gathered around the board.


    A faintyer of golden mist covered Chance and he walked through the crowd, slipping through tiny openings that closed behind him. He reached the front of the crowd and let his Essence fade away.


    At the center of the board was a bright red piece of paper. It was held in ce on every corner, making it so that nobody could pull it down.


    Whats going on? Chance asked one of the cultivators beside him over the roar of the crowd.


    Theres an emergency job, the woman replied. Some small vige is getting attacked by a powerful monster. The pay is terrible, though. Theyre not under the Dancing Cloud sects protection.


    Chance grimaced. Ah. No contribution points.


    None, the cultivator said, nodding in agreement. If they were offering good pay in gold, Id consider it but they cant even promise that. Its unfortunate, but Im not going to risk my life for no reward. We all came out here when we heard there was an emergency job, since those usually pay really well, but this its just not worth the time or effort.


    Chance squinted up at the paper. It had been put up at the top of the board, making it easy to spot for anyone passing by, but it was a little difficult to actually read what it said. The cultivator wasnt wrong  they pay really was bad. It was only around fifty gold for anyone that participated, and they didnt have any description of the monster or its abilities, just that it was powerful.


    His hands tightened and Chance turned, calling on his Essence and slipping through the crowd again. If the pay was this bad, almost no cultivators would be willing to take it up. People were going to die if someone didnt act, price be damned. He made a beeline toward the nearest guard post and strode through the door.


    I want to do the emergency job, Chance said, sying his fingers out on the countertop. Can you send me down and give me a token to get back?


    The guard blinked in surprise, but he gave Chance a curt nod and grabbed a wooden token from a small box by his desk. He quickly carved something into it with a glowing metal rod, then waved the smoke away.


    He slipped the token into a small metal slot on the desk. The runes carved along it shimmered to life with faint gray light and it sank down with a click. A circle of matching runes traced across the ground in the center of the guard outpost, just beside Chance.


    Ducking below his desk, the guard grabbed another token and set it out. He pushed it of over to Chance. There you go. This job isnt on the floating city, so youll need to use a more urate way to teleport you down. Return is easier, as we have special premade runes for returning to the city.


    Thanks, Chance said, picking the return token up and tucking it into his pocket. He stepped into the center of the glowing rune circle. Do I just stand here?


    Yup. I should warn you that youre the first Dancing Cloud cultivator to take this job up, the guard said, his hand hovering over the token hed put in the slot on the desk. An emergency job is usually for a pretty powerful monster. You might be on your own here.


    Someone has to do it.


    Not arguing with you, the guard said. Youre a good man. Just be careful. Good men dont tend tost too long down there. Make sure you break that return token if things get too bad. A cultivator is more important than a bunch of mortals.


    Chances lips pressed thin, but he gave the guard a curt nod. The man didnt mean anything bad by his words, but implying that one human life had more value than another rubbed him the wrong way. It hadnt been all that long ago that hed been a powerless mortal himself.


    Im still going.


    Good luck, the guard said. He pressed down on the token, snapping it with a click. Essence rushed around Chance, swallowing him in a churning vortex.


    Thanks, Chance replied.


    Then he was gone, pulled away from the Dancing Clouds city and sent hurtling through space toward the vige somewhere on the ground below. Chance just hoped it would still be standing when he arrived.

 Chapter 83: Seleth

    Chapter 83: Seleth


    Chance arrived to the sound of terrified whispers. The Dancing Cloud sect had deposited him right beside a barricade made of tightly packed wooden spears the width of his forearm. They jutted up into the air above his head, leaning out at an angle.


    Around a dozen men stood around him, wearing mismatched leather armor and clutching their weapons with terrified, white knuckled grips. Several of them cried out and jumped back at Chances appearance, and one even pointed his spear at him.


    Whoa, Chance said, raising his hands. Im here to help.


    Put that away, a grizzled man said, emerging from the thin crowd and smacking the mans spear to the side. Unlike the others, he wore fitting armor and carried a sword at his hip with the ease and grace of a soldier. He gave Chance a grim look. Thank you foring, honored cultivator. My name is Arden, and Im the captain of the guard for this vige.


    Please, just call me Chance. Whats going on? Wheres the monster?


    Outside the walls. Its been walking in circles around us for a few hours now, but we fear itll attack at any moment, Arden responded. He paused for a few moments, and his hand tightened around the pommel of his sword. Is anyone elseing?


    Im not sure. Im sorry, Chance said. But probably not.


    Arden did a remarkable job of keeping his emotions from reaching his face, but the rest of his men did considerably worse. They all exchanged horrified looks, and several muttered prayers under their breaths.


    Its not over yet, Arden said firmly, pounding a fist into his chest te. Theres still time for more cultivators to arrive. Get your chins up, you sorry louses. A cultivator has arrived to aid us. Show some damn appreciation and stand ready.


    The shoddily armored soldiers rushed to stand at parade arrest. Chance gave them what he hoped was aforting grin. They didnt exactly inspire much confidence, but at least Arden seemed to bepetent.


    Forgive me asking, Arden said, leaning in so he could speak just above a whisper. But can you handle this threat without any other cultivators? No others have arrived yet.


    It took an instant for Chance to realize that Arden was actually speaking to him, and not some other cultivator that had somehow materialized beside him. Hed never been called sir before, and especially not by someone that looked to be three times his age.


    Ill do my best, Chance promised. I dont know what kind of monster were up against. Im a Rank Two cultivator.


    Ardens lips pressed thin. Then we had best hope that more cultivators arrive. I fear our opponent may be too strong for a Rank Two to defeat on his own.


    What kind of monster is it? Chance asked.


    Arden gestured for Chance to follow him. He set off at a brisk pace along the wall, and the two of them came up to a lowered gate a minuteter. The rest of the soldiers followed behind them, keeping a respectful distance. Arden stopped in front of a small hole between the tightly packed wood and gestured for Chance to peer through.


    Youll get a nce at it through this, Arden said. I dont know why it hasnt attacked us yet. The gods must be smiling to give us such grace.


    Chance stepped up to the hole and closed one eye to peek through it. The vige sat on arge, grassy field. It stretched on for quite a distance before reaching a tall hill that blocked the rest of his view. Thick holes dotted the ground a few dozen paces away from the vige walls.


    Seconds passed. Arge, wed foot thudded down on the ground at the edge of his vision. It was covered with heavy green scales, and the ws dug deep into the dirt, pushing new holes into it.


    Chance directed his eyes upward, his heart skipping a beat in his chest. The monsters head loomed over fifteen feet in the air above where hed been looking. It was long and reptilian, like a crocodile, but with jagged fangs that curled up from all along its lower jaw.


    Four bulbous eyes protruded from the side of its head that Chance could see, all sickly yellow and ck in color. They darted to and fro, as if searching for something. Chance swallowed and pulled back from the gate, but he could still hear the thuds of the monsters steps as it paced around them.


    Thats big, Chance said finally.


    Arden gave him a grim nod. Yes.


    Ill do everything I can to stop it.


    Then we will attempt to aid you, Arden said. And we shall hope that others cultivators answer the call.


    Your men can fight that? Chance asked, taken aback. Without any cultivation?


    We can do what we can to keep its attention off you, Arden replied, turning his gaze to the men of the vige behind Chance. If it can buy you the time to fight it back, then our sacrifice will not be in vain.


    They nodded, but the fear was so thick in the air that it was palpable.


    <em>God, theyre literally just nning to kill themselves to buy me time. I wish I woke Be up. Im an idiot. </em>


    Chance shook his head. No. I dont need you to throw yourselves into its mouth to help me fight it. Ill be more distracted trying to protect you than I would be if I fought alone. I will handle this myself. Hopefully, other cultivators will arrive soon and help.


    Arden swallowed heavily. He took a step back and pressed his closed fist to his chest, then lowered into a short bow. The soldiers behind him mirrored the motion with less grace, but all with reverence.


    We will remember what you have done for us, even if the only ones we can tell are the Heralds of the Afterlife, Arden said. Honor to you, cultivator Chance.


    Thank you, Chance said simply. Anything else would have been a disrespect to them.


    Open the gate, Ardenmanded.


    Two guards ran over to a pully at the side of the wooden structure and cranked it, pulling it up with a grinding rattle. Once it had risen halfway, Chance ducked under it and stepped out into the field. The gate thudded shut behind him, but all of them knew it was nothing more than a mentalfort nket. It wouldnt stop the monster for more than a second.


    The enormous crocodile stopped its pacing, turning to look at Chance. A forked tongue flicked from its mouth as all eight of its eyes locked onto Chance, and its scaly lips peeled back in a snarl.


    Chance walked toward it, channeling Essence through his Gate and into his body. A thick cloak of golden mist set in over his shoulders and pooled around his feet, swirling with every step.


    The monster watched him approach warily. Chance stopped across from it, keeping enough distance to dodge if it attacked. They stood silently, sizing each other up.


    Something about the monster felt more than the ones Chance had fought before. It wasnt the size, either. It took Chance a moment to realize what it was. The crocodile felt intelligent.


    Can you understand me? Chance asked, not expecting to receive much of an answer.


    Yes, the crocodile replied in a coarse, ragged voice. Its tongue flicked out. I hear your words, little cultivator.


    Turn back, Chance said, hiding his surprise at the monsters response. If you can understand me, than I do not wish to fight you.


    The monster let out a hissing cough that Chance suspected might have been augh.


    I will not. I have been waiting. I must eat.


    Eat something else. Those are intelligent people. They have every right to live, just like you.


    The crocodiles ws dug into the dirt as it shifted its stance and reared back, sitting on its haunches. It stared down its long snout at Chance like he was a particrly interesting insect.


    Food is food. I do not weep for the sow because it squeals. It is simply aw of nature. I must eat to survive.


    Then why pace around the vige? Chance demanded. You could have attacked at any time, but you waited. Doesnt that mean you might be having misgivings, or you dont want to attack?


    The monster let out another hissing noise. This time, Chance was sure it wasughing.


    I waited because I hoped that more cultivators would arrive. s, only you havee. You will do little to sate my appetite, but I have no other choice. If I do not eat, I will die. Do I not have the same right to live as all others?


    Can you not eat something else?


    I am not blessed like your kind, the crocodile replied, its eyes narrowing in jealousy. I cannot cultivate in any manner but by consuming flesh and drawing the power from it. If I wish to survive, I must consume. This is my lot.


    Chance dug through his head, trying to find a response, but he realized that there was truly nothing he could respond with. He drew in a slow breath and let it out through his nose.


    I am sorry.


    As am I. It is rare that I encounter a cultivator that seeks to speak with one of my kind, the crocodile said. It is unfortunate that we meet. When this battle is concluded, I will carry a part of your will with mine. Our strength shall be one.


    To most, Chance suspected that would have been a threat. He was surprised to find that he didnt take it as one. In a twisted way, he suspected it might have actually meant to beforting. A profound sense of sadness welled in his throat.


    I will offer you the same honor, Chance said. He extended his hand and his bracelet slithered into his palm, forming into an urumi. I am Chance.


    I am Seleth. Come, Chance. Let us see whose desire to crush the heavens within our grasp is greater.

 Chapter 84: Hold true

    Chapter 84: Hold true


    Chance called on his Essence and it flowed to his will. He lowered his stance and let it fill his mind and body. A gentle smile crossed over his face and he swayed with the wind. Seleth lowered back to all fours.


    For an instant, all was still.


    The dirt beneath Chances feet exploded as he blurred forward, his urumi whistling through the air beside him. Seleths tail whipped out and Chance vaulted over it, hitting the ground in a roll and rising to his feet with a spin.


    His urumi scraped along Seleths scales with a clean, ringing note. He vaulted backward, avoiding the crocodiles huge ws as the arced through the air where hed been standing. Golden mist swirled around Seleth, trying to push its way into the monster, but it couldnt find any purchase.


    Its aura was too strong. Chance idly made note of that, recognizing that it meant Seleth was likely stronger than he was. That didnt matter. Augh slipped from his lips and he staggered toward Seleth, allowing the thrill of the fight to consume himpletely.


    He leapt and spun around it like a mosquito, his urumi singing its ringing song every time it connected with the monsters scales. Each time, the blows rang off harmlessly. Seleths attacks were equally as ineffective on Chance.


    It waspletely unable tond a single blow on him. He danced beneath its legs and bounced off its limbs,ughing all the while. Even if it could have likely crushed him with a single blow, it couldnt keep him in one spot for long enough to evernd it.


    Chance sent Essence into his urumi, setting it alight with golden mist just before another blow mmed into Seleths back. To his surprise, instead of cutting into the scales, it rang off with a resounding crack.


    Seleths tail whipped out for Chance and he sprung over it,nding in a handstand andunching himself to safety before Seleths jaws mmed shut in the air behind him. Its aura was incredible. Even with his Essence infusing the urumi, Chance couldnt damage it.


    Essence pumped through Chances veins and rose up into his forehead, opening his third eye. Hundreds of Karmic strands materialized in the air around Seleth, lighting the crocodile up in their golden hue.


    Chance flicked the urumi and it carved through a thick Karmic thread that depicted a tall, hairless monkey with bulging muscles and bloodshot eyes. Hed never seen a monster like it before, but it looked strong.


    Energy flooded into him, reinforcing every aspect of his body. Seleth took the brief instant that he stood still to lunge and flick his tail at Chance. Instinctively, Chance swayed to the side and swung his arm to block it.


    A shockwave rippled across the grass as their bodies shed. Seleths tail mmed to a stop and Chance staggered back, shaking his hand. Seleths eyes widened, then he inclined his head slightly in respect.


    Chance returned the gesture and they dashed at each other once more. The thunder of their strikes shook the grassy field as their battle intensified and each struggled to gain an advantage over the other.


    ***


    Jade was greeted by a thunderous crash as she took form beside the wooden wall. She dropped into a fighting stance, preparing to block an attack that never came. A second crash echoed out and she lowered her hands with a curse. The fight already started.


    She ran over to a group of ill equipped militia that stood gathered around the gate of the shoddy wooden wall, all trying to squint through the cracks.


    Whats going on? How bad are things? Jade called. Im a Shikari from Gleam. I received your distress call and havee to help.


    The men spun toward her, their eyes alight with both hope and fear. An elderly soldier emerged from their ranks.


    Thank the gods, he said. We might be saved after all. Please, help us. Weve got a Rank Two cultivator already fighting to keep the monster back, but I dont know if he can defeat it on his own. He forbade us from aiding because he feared for our lives, but a Shikari would be able to handle themselves. Please assist him.


    Jade blinked in surprise.


    <em>A Rank Two is putting the lives of mortals ahead of his own against a monster strong enough to fight like this? Completely on his own? Incredible. If my team had half that courage</em>


    I will do everything in my power, Jade swore, pressing a hand to her chest and drawing her broadsword. Open the gate! We will defeat the monster!


    The men cheered and the wooden gate rose into the air with a steady rumble. Jade called on her Essence and it lit a burning light within her heart, flooding energy into every part of her body.


    Her sword lit up with a holy glow and she charged out of the vige, allowing her aura to seep out and envelop her body in a protective shell. Jades eyes widened slightly as she caught her first sight of the fight. Another shockwave rippled through the air as an enormous crocodilian creature drove its palm down on top of theparatively miniscule cultivator wreathed in golden light standing before it.


    Jade blurred forward in a futile attempt to arrive before the blow could connect  but it had alreadynded before shed moved.


    Righteous fury welled in Jades heart and her Essence burned even brighter. Her feet thundered against the ground as she raced toward the monster.


    <em>I cant let someone bold enough to try and take on a monster of this size on their own die like this. I </em>


    Jade missed a step and nearly tripped over her own feet. The monster hadnt crushed the cultivator. Hed raised his own hand and had caught the blow, somehow managing to remain standing upright beneath the enormous weight and power of the crocodile.


    Despite herself, Jade stood still, her legs tied down by sheer awe. The twobatants showed no such restraint and continued their deadly dance. Loud crashes and the ring of metal on scales filled the air.


    <em>A Rank Two cultivator is holding off a monster this strong? Who is this? Are they from some powerful sect or family? Maybe one of the other Schr Cities?</em>


    Jades eyes narrowed as she watched the battle. The cultivator was putting up an incredible show, but shed slightly misread the situation. The monsters blows werent getting any weaker or slower, while none of the cultivators attacks had even injured it.


    <em>Hes not holding his own. The fight is heavily in the monsters favor. A single mistake and hell die, while he doesnt look like he has any real way to damage that monster. And still he fights like this. I cant stand around watching any longer. </em>


    Essence swirled around Jades feet. It poured into her sword and vanished into it, absorbed within the silvery metal. The monster hadnt noticed her arrival yet  it was distracted. If shended a powerful attack on it, the fight would end.


    <em>Sure, itll leave me open for a few moments, but its so caught up that I doubt itll even realize Im here until its toote.</em>


    Jade dashed forward. She leapt into the air, raising the sword high above her head, and let Essence pour from her hands and into the weapon. All the energy that had been stored within it finally released. The weapon lit up like a falling star, burning with light so brilliant that heat emanated off the de. Anyone that looked at the de would have been temporarily blinded.


    Even if the monster knew she was there, there was no way for it to block her attack without seeing where it wouldnd. She let a victorious grin cross her face as she looked down at her prey.


    The monster was staring straight up at her, unblinking. Thin, clear eyelids had slipped over its eyes, shielding them from the bright light without forcing them to close. Her heart skipped a beat.


    <em>Oops. This is going to hurt. </em>


    A sparkle of amusement twinkled in the crocodiles eyes and it lunged up. Its huge maw split open to swallow Jade and her sword whole. She desperately twisted her body, but there was no way to redirect herself once she was already in the air.


    The monsters head snapped to the side as a massive golden fist crashed into it, sending the crocodile rolling across the ground. Jadended on the ground, looking up in disbelief at the crocodile as it skidded to a stop.


    Glowing gold Essence poured off the cultivator as he darted past Jade. The crocodile roared, rising to meet his charge. Right before they met, the cultivator threw himself to the side and reached out, seemingly grabbing at nothing.


    Mist gathered behind the crocodile, forming into the form of a towering, armored figure bearing a halberd. It reared back and drove the de of the weapon down into the monsters back.


    Scales shattered beneath the strike and blood sttered across the ground. The crocodile roared in pain,shing its tail through the misty figure. It dissipated, blowing away in the wind as if it had never been there.


    That did nothing to undo the crippling blow that the apparition had dealt. Jade pushed herself to her feet, unable to contain the awe welling up in her chest.


    <em>He was holding back. All that time, the cultivator was holding back?</em>


    The cultivator walked up to the crocodile and raised his sword.


    <em>Yes! Finish it!</em>


    He stopped walking. Jade stared at him, baffled.


    Well fought, Seleth, he said, inclining his head with the same amount of respect that Jade would have shown a teacher. Sorry. I couldnt beat you any other way.


    The monster let out a rattling hiss. A fatal blow, dealt to me by one who I id years ago. How is this possible?


    Unsolved Karma, the cultivator replied. All things must be ounted for in the end. I just paid this particr debt out a little earlier than the others.


    I see. The monsters body rippled with a mixture of pain and amusement. I am defeated. Well fought.


    Are you sure about this? the cultivator asked. You could leave. There arent any absolutes in this world. Ive learned that much. Maybe we could find a different way for you to cultivate.


    Perhaps, but not for me, Seleth said, pushing itself back to its feet. Its tongue ran along its scaled lips. Will you hold true to your promise?


    The cultivator nodded. I will.


    Thene, Chance.


    It charged, letting out an earsplitting roar. The cultivator met it, golden mist swirling around his body. He waited until right before Seleth was upon him, then drunkenly stumbled to the side.


    Jaws crashed shut, just barely missing him, and he vaulted onto the monsters back. His sword shed in the glowing light pouring off him and, for an instant, the world stood still. Then he plunged it into the open wound.


    Seleth crashed to the ground, skidding several feet through the grass before sliding to a stop, the light in his eyes gone. The cultivator pulled his de free, staring at the blood covering it as it dripped onto the beasts scales.


    He knelt, reaching into the monster, and pulled its pumping heart out with a grunt. Jades eyes widened in shock as he raised the organ to his lips and bit into it, tearing arge chunk off and swallowing it.


    Jade scrambled to her feet, her eyes wide in horror, but the cultivator didnt die. He wiped his lips, grimacing, then slid to the ground. He walked up to Seleths head and gently closed the monsters eyes with the back of his hand.


    I hope you find what you were looking for, the cultivator said, so softly that Jade could barely hear his words.


    He finally turned, looking at her for the first time. At the same instant, Jades mind finally caught up to the conversation that the cultivator had had with the monster.


    <em>Segmented whip sword. Golden mist and Karma magic. His name is Chance. This is the cultivator that murdered the other Shikari. Oh, shit. </em>


    <em>Im dead. </em>

 Chapter 85: Return

    Chapter 85: Return


    Are you okay? Chance asked, approaching the girl sitting on the ground. She watched him with wide eyes, her knuckles white around the hilt of her huge sword. You didnt get injured, did you?


    I  no, she said, staring at Chance like hed sprouted a horn from his head. I am uninjured.


    Thats good. Chance let out a relieved sigh. Id hate for anyone else to get hurt today.


    The girl slowly rose to her feet without releasing her sword.


    I dont think there are any other monsters. It was just this one, Chance said. His urumi flicked back around his wrist, returning to a bracelet. Its safe now.


    What do you mean? she asked after a short pause.


    Uh what?


    You said youd hate if anyone else got hurt. Were any vigers injured? They said you were the only cultivator present.


    Oh, Chance said. He sent a sad smile in Seleths direction. No. As far as Im aware, no people were hurt. I was talking about him.


    The monster?


    Yeah, Seleth. He was a decent guy, I think. I dont think he wanted to eat anyone.


    The girl stared at him. He was here trying to attack the city. Are you insane?


    Im not defending his actions, Chance said, raising his hands. I just think he got dealt a bad hand. I hope the universe is kind to him and something better is waiting for him.


    Chance looked back at Seleth and clenched his hands. After a moment, he shook his head and cleared his throat.


    Right. Youre all safe, right? Im going to head off if so.


    Wait! You cant just leave like that.


    Why not?


    You  uh arent you going to tell the vige what happened?


    I think they can see, Chance said with a small chuckle. And to be honest, I know theyre going to be really happy about this. I cant me them, I guess. It just leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.


    I dont understand you at all. The girls fingers twitched and she raised her sword slightly. Chance traced the motion, but she slid the de into its sheathe. Im Jade.


    <em>That was weird. For a moment, it felt like she was about to attack me. </em>


    Im Chance. Nice to meet you.


    So I heard, Jade said. You told the monster your name. Whyd you do that?


    Because he seemed respectable, Chance replied. And there was always a possibility I could have talked him out of fighting. That would have been nice.


    Jadeughed, but it faded away when she spotted the serious expression on his face. Youre not joking?


    No. Why would I be? Seleth was intelligent. That means he could be reasoned with.


    He was a monster the size of a small mansion that eats humans to survive.


    Well, we cant all be perfect. Maybe he could have eaten some elks instead.


    Youre doing it again, Jade said, squinting at Chance.


    Doing what?


    Being serious. You really think a monster will just be good if you act nice enough to it?


    I mean, sure. Why not? He could have killed you, you know. He chose not to.


    Jade blinked. What do you mean?


    His tail was much faster than his mouth, Chance exined, sending another look back at the dead monster. He nearly got me several times with it and, no offense to you, but he saw youing from a mile away. He actually told me our fight was going to get interrupted before you got here.


    Impossible. Jade took a step back. Youre telling me he intentionally chose not to kill me? Why? To y with his food?


    I think he did it because he didnt really want to kill us. He was waiting on cultivators to show up. I think he wanted to lose the fight, Chance said. Maybe not enough to actually tell me, but deep down, I dont think he wanted to hunt living beings anymore.


    Jade shook her head. Youre imagining things.


    Chance shrugged in response. Maybe I am. Either way, the job is done. The threat is taken care of and the vige is safe, so theres no reason for me to stick around. You should probably report it was defeated as well. Im not sure how the pay works, but I figure its all split between us.


    Why would it be? You did all the work. Are you new to this or something?


    Yup, Chance replied with a small smile. He reached into his pocket. I guess you could say that. Well, it was nice meeting you, Jade.


    Wait!


    Chance raised an eyebrow.


    I  you saved my life. You cant just leave like that, Jade said, crossing her arms in front of her stomach. It creates a debt between us that I need to pay off.


    Oh. Duh, Chance said, flicking himself in the forehead. Do you have any gold?


    Uh yes?


    Great. I need one. Could I have a gold?


    Jade slowly reached into her pocket and pulled out a coin. She handed it to Chance, who took it with a smile.


    Thank you. I really needed this. Itll help me afford something that will save my life in the long run. Chance tilted his head to the side and peered at Jade. She shivered and took a step back.


    What are you doing?


    Just double checking. Were all clear.


    What?


    Karmic debt, Chance exined. Theres none between us. I just made sure. No debts to pay.


    Jade nced from Chance to the gold coin in his hand. He followed her eyes, then held the coin out. Here. You can have this back.


    I just gave it to you.


    Well, I dont really need it, Chance admitted. I just thought you giving it to me might make you feel better. We really dont have any debt, though. Dont worry about it.


    How does you saving my life not endebt me? And theres no way a coin could have possibly paid the price, Jade protested. At least let me seek you out in the future with proper payment.


    Theres no need, Chance insisted. Just trust me on this. Maybe well run into each other again in the future, but Im not going to ask for any payment. Just try to do good by other people.


    Jade pressed her lips together as emotion warred on her face. She shifted her stance from foot to foot. Chance watched her silently. Nearly a minute passed, but neither of them broke the silence. Finally, Jade inclined her head.


    If you insist. And youre sure you wont let me pay you back?


    If you really want to pay me back, then help someone in need of it, Chance replied. As long as weve increased the amount of good deeds in the world, then Im happy.


    Jade opened her mouth, then closed it without saying anything else. She just gave Chance a small nod. Fine. Ill tell the vige what happened and that you were the one to defeat Seleth. Ill also ask them to give him a burial.


    Chance smiled. Thank you, Jade. Take care.


    He reached into his pocket and snapped the token without pulling it out. Essence swirled around him, building up around in a copper swirl around his feet before swallowing himpletely and ferrying him away to the Dancing Cloud sects city.


    ***


    You had to retreat? the guard asked, giving Chance a knowing smile as he arrived. Good decision, kid. Its not worth your life.


    No, Chance said, shaking his head. I defeated the monster. Could you have the pay sent to my ount?


    The guards eyes bulged. Youre kidding. Seriously? It was an emergency job, wasnt it? Did the vige overestimate the monsters strength?


    Chance gave him a small shrug. The pay <em>was </em>pretty bad, wasnt it?


    I suppose it was. The guard rubbed the back of his neck and chuckled. Well, Ill be. Good job either way. Once we get confirmation that the job has beenpleted, Ill send the payment to your ount as you request. Ive already got it since you used our teleporter.


    Sounds good. Chance raised a hand in farewell and headed out of the guard post. He walked at a brisk pace, moving as quickly as he could without running as he made his way back toward Be.


    It was a minor miracle that hed managed to hold everything together this far. Chance was well aware that he was a terrible liar, but luckily it looked like Jade had been equally bad at reading him.


    When hed opened his third eye, hed checked her Karmic threads. It felt like a slight breach of privacy, but with the Shikari hunting him, he didnt have the luxury to avoid it. Among them was Gibson.


    Jade was a Shikari.


    There was always a possibility that shed stumbled into him entirely on ident, but her reaction when theyd spoken had been telling. She knew who he was, at the very least. Her insistence on finding out where he lived could have very well been her trying to determine how to track him down.


    <em>Id love to believe shes realized that Im not who the Shikari are saying I am, but Im not about to bet my life on that. I need to find Be and let her know what happened. </em>

 Chapter 86: Wolf with a sheeps smile

    Chapter 86: Wolf with a sheep''s smile


    Jade stared down into her yellowed reflection in the beer on the table before her. The vige around her was alight with cheer andughter, but she couldnt untwist the tight knot of unease that had bound around her heart.


    She swirled the beer around in its wooden mug, not having touched it since the barman had served her. Jade hadnt even ordered it  hed just shoved it into her hands and ran off to join his fellow vigers in celebrating another day of life.


    It wasnt like Jade could me him. There was a reason that viges this far away from the Schr Cities didnt get names. Names were a privilege, as was life. Survival was <em>worth </em>celebrating.


    You look dour, a mans voice said from behind Jade.


    She raised her gaze, looking over her shoulder. Jades eyes widened and she jumped from the chair.


    Officer Shae! I didnt realize youd arrived at the vige, Jade said, stumbling over her words slightly.


    You were gone for too long, Shae replied, pulling out a stool beside Jade and sitting down. He gestured for her to do the same. I thought you might have had difficulty with the monster.


    Jades hands clenched at her sides. She sat back down and pushed her mug to the side. I did.


    It appears to be dead, so you clearly didnt have much. Shae nced around the empty inn, then reached over the counter and grabbed a bottle of wine from the wall behind it. He snagged an empty mug and poured himself a ss, then took a long draw from it. You arent injured either.


    Another cultivator was here. I wasnt alone.


    Shae finished his drink and pursed his lips in mild distaste. Not the best Ive ever had. And thats quite a surprise. Someone else actually bothered toe out for such a low paying job?


    Jade just nodded. The two of them sat in silence for a few ufortable moments. Jade picked her own drink up and stared into its fizzy depths, swirling it around again.


    Something is troubling you. Shae tapped his mouth dry with a napkin. He picked up the wine bottle and refilled his drink. Didnt perform how you expected without a team?


    Thats part of it, Jade admitted. Officer Shae, I know I was the one that sought you out when I heard you were also on this mission, but are you certain we got all the details?


    Shae raised the mug to his lips, draining it within seconds. He set it gently back down on the table and refilled it once more. Thats an odd question to ask.


    Jade squirmed under his sharp gaze. She picked her drink up,rgely just to have something to turn her attention toward other than the Shikari officer. I was just thinking about it. Chance  our target  hes not even a Knight rank, and even though I wasnt at the tournament he won, I had friends that were. Apparently, he seemed really friendly. Why would he just kill a Shikari and go on the run?


    Ah, Jade, youve stumbled into something that many Shikari do in their line of work, especially as we grow in strength. Shae gave her a small smile. Theres a fundamental misunderstanding, Im afraid.


    About what?


    Your role. You are a Knight. Youck the strength or experience to truly understand why Gleams council would issue a quest like this. The world is still painted in ck and white for you, when it is in true a mirage of greys. Perhaps our target was indeed a joyful person, but that does not matter. We are Shikari. Our task is to eliminate the threat, and that is what we will do.


    Jade looked back down at her drink. She slowly raised it to her lips and took a sip, then grimaced and set it back down on the counter. But what if the council was wrong?


    It is not your ce to question the council. You exist to execute its will. If you wish to question your jobs, then be strong enough to demand such a privilege. You were the one that chose to take this on. Nobody forced you, Shae said. He poured thest of the wine out of its bottle and straight into his mouth, then set it back down on the counter with a sigh. Backwater swill.


    Isnt it our duty as Shikari to make sure justice is upheld? Jade pressed.


    It is our duty as Shikari to make sure that thews that enforce justice are upheld, Shae corrected. He rose to his feet and tossed a gold coin onto the counter. Weve spent time enough here.


    Jade stood as well. Where are we going?


    Shae gave her a cold smile. You tell me, Jade. Youre the one that met the boy and let him get away.


    Jades eyes widened. You knew?


    That was the least obvious line of questioning Ive ever seen, Shae replied tly. A bumbling fool would have known. I have entertained your questions for long enough. He clearly defeated the monster with your help and escaped. How?


    Jade swallowed. For a moment, she didnt respond to Shaes question. Then she shook her head. I have no idea. He reached into his pocket and vanished. I tried to get him to stick around and speak to me for a little while, but he refused.


    Did he suspect your identity?


    I dont think so. He


    Jade pressed her lips together, then shook her head. Never mind, its not relevant. He just vanished after reaching into his pocket.


    Shae rubbed his chin. A teleportation token, I suspect. One that belongs to a sect in the area, because this town wouldnt have reach to get their message very far. That narrows things down significantly, and exins why its been so hard to track him down.


    A smile formed on Shaes lips and he strode out of the tavern. Jade rushed after him, jogging to keep up with his long stride. Shae wasted no time in walking straight up to a group of guardsmen who wereughing amongst themselves.


    Greetings, Shae said, raising his hand. I am Shae, a Shikari on a job from Gleam.


    The guards scrambled to their feet. One of them stepped forward and gave a small bow.


    Is there something you require of us, Shikari? I will do everything in my power to aid you.


    Nothing so grand, Shae said with a chuckle. I was just wondering if there was a Sect your town had any ties to.


    The guards eyes lightened. Ah! Yes, the Dancing Cloud sect. Theyre the ones that sent one of the cultivators to help us.


    Fantastic. Shae pped the man on the shoulder. Please, dont let me interrupt your celebrations any longer. I wish you a long life.


    And you a longer one, the guard replied, giving Shae a salute before turning back to his friends. Neither the guard nor the other men said anything else until Shae and Jade were well out of earshot.


    And there we have it, Shae said. The Dancing Cloud sect. We know where our fugitive friend has run to.


    Ive never heard of it, Jade said.


    Then it is a good thing you came to me and asked to work together. Shae pulled a small metal rod out from a pouch at his waist and knelt, drawing runes in the packed dirt on the side of the road. Jade peered over his shoulder to watch him work.


    All the vigers gave them a wide berth, giving respectful nods and small smiles whenever they made eye contact with Jade. Within half an hour, Shae had finished his work. He tucked the rod away and examined the circle hed drawn on the ground.


    You know where they are? Jade asked.


    A floating city, Shae replied. I did not think that Chance would have the resources to get there, but they must have been recruiting or Chance made friends with one of their members. Luckily, I can get us onto the ind.


    Jade chewed her lower lip. After a moment, she just nodded her understanding. I guess thats the easy part. Actually finding him will be hard.


    Hard? Shae let out a low chuckle. This <em>was</em> the hard part. I have the scent now. Well be on him before the sun rises in the sky tomorrow.


    Jade cleared her throat and, after a brief moment of deliberation, spoke. About the job  is it possible to capture Chance instead of killing him? I know its not my ce to question the role, but I think we could avoid needless bloodshed. He seems more reasonable than I expected.


    Im sure the Shikari he and his group killed thought the same thing. Be wary of the wolf with a sheeps smile, Shae said. He nodded to the runes on the ground. Get in the circle. If youre adamant about this, we can discuss it once we arrive on the floating ind.


    Jade stepped into the ring. She opened her mouth to ask a question, but never got the chance. There was a sharp crack and she vanished, swallowed by a cloud of ck Essence. Shae watched it for a moment, then nodded.


    Always good to make sure the circle works before you use it yourself, he muttered, striding in after Jade. He disappeared an instantter, swallowed by the same cloud. The Essence slithered down into the runes, burning through them and leaving nothing but faint scorch marks in the dirt and the scent of sulfur hanging low in the air.


    Unbeknownst to the two Shikari, a shadow in the alleys of a nearby building rippled. A man stepped out from it, a pensive frown on his face as he rubbed the back of his neck and approached the remains of the circle.


    Well, thats not good, Brent said. He knelt beside the circle and pressed his hand into the dirt. I think the Boss is going to want to know about this.


    He straightened back out and reached into a pocket, pulling out a small wooden token. It had the insignia of the Dancing Cloud sect emzed into it, surrounded by a small ring of runes. Brent snapped the token between his fingers and Essence swarmed around him. When the wind blew thest traces of it away, there was no trace of him.

 Chapter 87: Red Hand

    Chapter 87: Red Hand


    Chance stepped into his room. Be was still sitting on the bed, cultivating, but the sound of the door clicking shut behind him was loud enough for her to open her eyes. She blinked, then caught the serious expression on Chances face.


    Her rxed smile faded and she hopped off the bed. What happened?


    The Shikari are closer than we thought, Chance said. I did a job that sent me down below the surface because a vige was getting attacked by a pretty powerful monster, and there was a Shikari girl there. We were the only two that showed up to fight.


    Crap. Howd you find out she was a Shikari?


    I looked at her Karma and saw ties to Gibson. She didnt seem weak, but I dont think she was particrly strong either. Probably around our strength, but they wouldnt send someone like that alone, would they?


    Be shook her head. Its possible she was working on her own, but I couldnt say. Did she figure out who you were?


    Yeah, she did. I didnt realize she was a Shikari untilter, and she was just as bad of a liar as I am. To be honest, she didnt really seem like a bad person. Maybe we could reason with her?


    Not worth risking our lives over. A lot of Shikari are probably decent people, but theyre after us for the next  two months, I think?


    Roughly, Chance said with a nod. I didnt let her see my token to the Dancing Cloud sect, though. She shouldnt know where I came from.


    It wouldnt be too hard for someone to track what sects are in the area, Be mused, walking over to the window and peering out of it as if expecting to see a group of Shikari waiting for them on the streets. We should get ready to move, but I dont think we have to panic either. Even if they know where we are, it should take them a little while to actually track us down. We need to figure out a n.


    Chance nodded. He picked up the box that hade in the mail and handed it to Be. What about this?


    What is it? Be asked, popping the top off and reading through the letter. Her eyebrows and she took the token out of it. Thats not a bad idea, actually. Its an immediate teleportation, so if we get cornered, we could both use it and vanish.


    We should probably save it for as long as possible then, right? Chance guessed.


    Yeah. For now, lets go get some supplies and spend any contribution points that we havent used yet. If the Shikari track us here, we probably wont be able toe back in the near future.


    Chance grabbed his case from his bed. They both gave a quick nce around the room, but aside from some empty pill vials on Bes bed, there was nothing there. There hadnt been enough time to really settle into the room.


    The two headed out the door at a brisk pace and left the building, heading for the market. Chance let a tiny amount of Essence slip out of his Gate to guide their steps and hopefully give him forewarning if the Shikari were getting close.


    Were you mostly doing jobs when I was cultivating? Be asked.


    Yeah. Im mowing through my supply of pills at a pretty fast rate, so Ive been trying to keep up with what I use, Chance said. He rattled his case. Its not working too well. Most of what I have left are the better mid and high level pills, and I havent made nearly enough to afford anything better than those in the stores.


    Only you could have a case full of mid and high level cultivation aids andin about them notsting enough, Be snickered. They turned a corner and reached the edge of the market. But if youre really going through pills that quickly, shouldnt you be getting pretty close to Knight rank?


    I think Im definitely getting close. Its kind of hard to tell what the actual differences between the ranks are, but Pete said wed know when we ranked up. I figure the same thing will happen this time around.


    Yeah. Knights gain ess to their aura, Be said. I wasgging behind before, but your pills gave me the push I needed. I can feel that Im almost there. While I was meditating, I could almost sense my aura. Just a few more days and I think I should be able to ess it.


    Nice! Chance eximed. Im not quite there yet, but some defensive abilities beyond luck would certainly be useful.


    They stopped beside a wooden cart, where a merchant was selling a variety of roast meet on skewers. Without a word, both of them bought a skewer. They devoured the food as they headed deeper into the market.


    How many points do we have left? Be asked.


    I think we should have somewhere around fifty or sixty, Chance replied. I used the rest. Sorry.


    All the pills you gave me more than made up for it, and thats not an insignificant amount at all. Do you need a new weapon?


    Chance patted his thorny wristband with an affectionate smile. No. This is more than enough for me right now. Ocies urumi is perfect. What about you?


    Be rubbed her chin contemtively. I prefer my hands. If were going to be running into this Azure Moon Realm, it could be a good idea to stock up on healing pills and other utility stuff. Its not exactly my ideal idea of how to spend money, but


    Seems like the smartest idea, Chance said with a nod. We cant spend money if were dead.


    Their course decided, they swung by all the merchants that looked to be selling pill vials and lifesaving treasures. It took around an hour to work their way around the stalls, but by the end of it, theyd both purchased new carrying pouches and a variety of tools to store within them.


    Each had a new vial of healing pills, a smoke bomb that the merchant had sworn would fill an entire building with smoke so thick that it was impossible to see through for at least ten minutes, and two small vials with a single pill that lit up like the sun for a few seconds when exposed to air.


    By the time they were done, not a single contribution point was left. Chance spent the majority of his gold as well, so his case was lighter than it had ever been before. The only things it still had in it were a few coins, some high level cultivation aids, and the enlightenment pill that hed been saving.


    They headed back toward their room, their shopping finished. Chance couldnt keep himself from ncing over his shoulder every few minutes, half expecting to find Jade behind them.


    Calm down, Be said, nudging Chance in the side. This city is pretty big, and weve already got a n to escape. At this point, were just waiting to see if theyre actually on our tail or not.


    Yeah, Chance said. He turned the token in his pocket over, running a finger over its rough surface. I cant say I like getting chased.


    Neither do I, Be said. But if your teacher is to be trusted, then itll only be for a little while longer. We can do that.


    <em>To be trusted, huh? </em>


    Be caught the pensive frown on Chances face. You think hes going to betray us?


    Chance stopped walking and Be did the same, turning back to look at him. After a moment, Chance shook his head. I dont think so, but I think his idea of betrayal is very different than ours. Id like to believe he was serious, but who knows if this is just the first part of some even more borate test. I only just got him to promise not to try to kill me, and even that was a bit of a reach.


    Well, its not like Ive got much better luck with my mentors, Be said. That makes two out of three of us thatnded some weird or crazy bloke as our teacher. Maybe Yeos the lucky one.


    They bothughed and resumed walking. Chance kept his Essence at hand, feeding it into his third eye and idly ncing at the people they passed by. He didnt dig too deep to avoid invading anyones privacy too much, but he kept a general scan for anything that felt familiar.


    No Shikari emerged from the crowd or jumped from the skies. They reached their room without incidence. Chance went for the handle, then paused as a towering man stepped around the other side of the hallway, his hands in his pockets.


    You! Chance eximed, stepping back in surprise. What are you doing here?


    We meet again. What a pleasurable coincidence, the man said with a bassy chuckle. Be looked from him to Chance, then lowered into a fighting stance.


    Who is this?


    I ran into him back in the vige on the ground, Chance replied. When we were in the bath house.


    He returned a valuable pill that Id misced, therge man said, stretching his arms above his head and arching his back. Quite the boyfriend youve got. I would have kept that for myself.


    Be let her hands lower and pushed her hair away from her face. Were just traveling partners. I didnt see you taking the test with us. Are you a cultivator?


    As she spoke, Be sent Chance a pointed nce. She didnt say anything, but the question in her expression was clear. She was asking if this was the Shikari. Chance shook his head slightly.


    I am, the man replied. I never got a chance to introduce myself to your <em>traveling partner</em>. I am Lin.


    Pleasure to meet you, Be said. Chance does have a habit of being nice. Maybe a bit too much.


    Perhaps. Lins face was unreadable. Speaking of kindness, I find myself inck of a room. I only just arrived on this city. Would you be willing to lend me a bed for an hour so I could rest? Its been a long day.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce, and an unspoken conversation passed between them.


    Uh I suppose thats fine, Chance said after Be shrugged.


    I am truly fortunate to have run into you again, Lin said, pressing a hand to his chest. I have supplies for dinner. I will provide in exchange for the stay.


    Oh, thanks! Thats kind of you, Chance said, sliding the key into the door. I have to say, I wasnt expecting to run into you here.


    He pushed the door open and stepped forward. His foot caught on the edge of the doorframe and Chance tripped, stumbling forward. A sword whistled over his head and mmed into the wall behind him with a thud, burying itself several feet into the stone and vibrating within it.


    Chance rolled to the side,unching to his feet as golden Essence poured out from him. A lean, ck haired man standing inside his room lowered his hand, his brow ever so slightly furrowed, as if hed just found out that hed have to wait an extra ten minutes for an appointment.


    You really are lucky, the man said, his voice emotionless. He flicked his ponytail over his shoulder. Do you have any idea how long I was holding that, waiting for you to open the door? My arm got tired.


    The sword ripped itself free from the wall and whistled back into the mans hand, narrowly missing Chance.


    Youre Shikari, Chance said, more of a statement than a question.


    I am Shae. And you are a fugitive. Shaes eyes moved over to Lin. And you imed to not to have met him.


    Did I? Lin rubbed his chin, then shrugged his burly shoulders. Ah, yes. I remember that.


    And?


    I lied.


    Shae snapped his fingers. Jade stepped out from behind the door, moving to stand beside the older Shikari. Unlike Shae, her face was taut with stress and unease. She held herrge sword before her with both hands, and a faint glow emitted from her eyes.


    Be sent a pointed nce at her pocket, where shed stored the Realm token. Chance inclined his head slightly.


    Through my authority as a Shikari, all three of you are a threat to the peace, Shae said. You are to be put to death.


    Jade cleared her throat.


    Shaes lips pressed together. Or you may surrender and be brought back to Gleam, where we will give you a trial and you will have the opportunity to atone for your crimes.


    Pleasee easily. Jade sent Chance a pleading look. I dont think youre a bad person. I could tell that much from watching you fight. Id vouch for you. You dont have to die here.


    Before Chance could respond, Lin shook his head.


    Im afraid you cant do that.


    Oh? Shae tilted his head to the side. Please, exin.


    Youre saying theres a chance to pardon me for my wrongdoings.


    Should you surrender. Mypatriot has spent thest few hours begging to give the option.


    Ah. No, I wont do that. Lin let out a heavy sigh and pped Chance on the shoulder. The force of what should have been aforting gesture nearly drove him into the ground, and Chance staggered.


    Rather die fighting? I can oblige, Shae said with a small smirk. I told you, Jade.


    Thats not it, Lin said. Youre a Baron rank, yes?


    I am.


    Then you dont have the authority to offer me such a deal, Lin said. A Shikari of a much higher rank than you already told me that my crimes are forever inexcusable, and the only payment I could ever offer for them is my death.


    Lins fingers curled up like he was trying to cup the air. An involuntary shiver ran down Chances spine and he instinctively stepped back as a wave of energy rolled off Lins body. The tips of Lins fingertips shimmered and turned a cherry red.


    Red veins bulged along Lins skin, running down the back of his hand and along his forearms. A small cloud of white steam coiled off Lin and dispersed into the room. Shaes sword leapt from his hands and the Shikari opened his mouth to call out a warning.


    Lin vanished  though that wasnt quite the right word. He seemed to slide forward, passing through space so quickly that for the briefest instant, Chance would have sworn that he upied every single spot in the line between where hed stood and Shae. Red lines of Essence trailed behind Lins fingers as he moved his hands through the air in azy circle.


    With the air of a father greeting his infant son, Lins hand brushed Shaes chest. The entire motion felt like it took less than a millisecond, but Chances eyes somehow managed to pick up every single part of it.


    Shaes chest exploded. Bone and blood bloomed behind him, sttering across the wall and painting the back half of the roompletely red. An instant of stunned silence hung in the room, an executioners axe ced at all of their necks.


    Officer Shae! Jade screamed, scrambling to open the pouch at her side. Shae was faster. His hand darted out and he mmed something into his mouth. An instantter, the savage wound yanked itself shut and he drew a ragged breath, staggering back a step and pressing a hand to his chest.


    Red Hand, Shae snarled, his face a mixture of fear and anger. Youre Red Hand? Jade, leave immediately. Report back to Gleam and get reinforcements.


    Jade grabbed a token and snapped it. Essence swirled around her, preparing to whisk Jade away. Lin flicked his fingers, and a wave of red light washed over the room. Chance reached for his Essence, but the light washed over him harmlessly. It washed over Jade, blowing the smoke around her to tiny wisps.


    I insist that you stay. I am no Karma cultivator, but I know the danger of unpaid debt. Your lives will suffice to help even the scales.


    You caught me by surprise, Shae growled. His knuckles whitened around his sword. You wont be able to kill me that easily, Red Hand.


    Yes, Lin replied. I will. You just used a powerful healing pill to recover from the damage I inflicted. Your body will not be able to handle many more of those, even if you have more pills.


    Shae grit his teeth. Jade, buy me time. This isnt an opponent I can handle on my own.


    Lin raised his hands, his eyes flicking to Jade.


    <em>If he moves, Jade is going to die. </em>


    Wait! Chance yelled.


    Everyone looked at him.


    Please dont kill them, Chance said, struggling to not quail under the enormous weight of Lins gaze. I appreciate you protecting me, but I dont want to kill people in my room. Its distasteful.


    They will kill you.


    I  Be and I were just about to leave, Chance said. Were not in danger.


    Lin tilted his head to the side. But their death would simplify things for you. No other Shikari know of your exact location.


    I dont need them dead, Chance insisted. He swallowed and cleared his throat. We were about to have dinner, werent we? What if you just treated them to dinner instead? A long one?


    A thin smile crossed Lins face. Very well. I will treat them to dinner. Is this eptable?


    Youre a murderer! Im not going to


    Shae pped a hand over Jades mouth.


    I will gather intelligence about you and report back to Gleam, Shae said, his eyes narrow.


    Then sit, Lin said, crossing his legs and taking a seat where he stood. I do not believe you will be able to make dinner today, Chance.


    Im afraid not, Chance said, hiding the relief on his expression. Thank you, though.


    Lin just inclined his head. Chance and Be both stepped out of the room. Before Chance could even say anything, Be pressed a finger to his lips and shook her head curtly. She pulled her Realm token out and gestured for Chance to do the same.


    As soon as she saw him take his out, Be broke her token. A swirl of blue light enveloped her. Chance sent one nce back at the open door, where Jade and Shae were staring at them past Lins enormous figure. He gave them a weak smile, then broke the token. Essence swarmed around him.


    <em>I really hope Lin doesnt kill them. Jade seemed like a decent person.</em>


    Then Chance was gone, and the only ones that remained in the sickly red light within the room were Shae, Jade, and the monstrous man sitting across from them, waiting to start dinner.

 Chapter 88: Stronger

    Chapter 88: Stronger


    A swirl of Essence swept out around Chance as he arrived on arge stone circle beside Be. The ground beneath his feet hummed with energy. A faint haze rose up from it, warping around their bodies. The stone was warm enough that the heat seeped through the bottoms of his shoes and into his feet.


    Thest of the Essence dissipated. A lush, grassy field stretched out around the stone circle. It was dotted with the ruins of dozens of stone buildings, many of which had been overtaken by nature and were little more than grassy lumps with specks of grey poking through.


    Beyond the field rose hills and mountains, the tallest of which rose far into the air and scraped through the clouds. Inds floated amongst them, simr to the floating tforms in Gleam  and yet, at the same time,pletely different.


    Instead of glowing bridges to connect them, many of the inds had rope bridges between them or the nearby mountains. Others had no apparent way to get onto them at all, and Chance spotted more than a few indspletely upside down, their grassy tops pointed down toward the earth.


    Like the field, several of the inds had buildings upon them. One boasted an enormous castle that was taller than the ind itself. It hung at a forty-five degree angle, with the only ess to it being a twisting bridge that ran to it from a nearby ind with what looked to be a guardhouse built into its side.


    Several beams of brilliant blue light burned in the distance, rising up from the ground and piercing through the horizon. Essence rose off them in waves, rippling through the sky and making the clouds around them form to their patterns.


    Chance turned in a circle, taking the sight in with wide eyes and an askew jaw. A crackle of Essence beside him snapped his attention back to his immediate location, and a woman wearing green robes appeared before him and Be. She inclined her head ever so slightly and gave them a thin, restrained smile.


    Wee to the Azure Moon Realm, she said, brushing a strand of brown hair out of her face. Her gaze swept over both Chance and Be, and the corner of her lip turned down ever so slightly. Your tokens identify you as members of the Dancing Cloud sect. Is this correct?


    Yes, Chance said, still marveling at the inds. Why?


    Safety measures, the woman replied. Wee. I wont take up much more of your time. Please take note of the stone circle at your feet. This is one of the entry and exit points for the Azure Moon Realm. Ensure that you return to this or one of the other points before the Realm closes in a little less than three weeks. Failure to do this will result in you being trapped.


    Be opened her mouth, but the woman didnt give her a chance to ask the question shed been preparing.


    The beams of light in the sky mark the other locations of exit and entry points.


    Bes mouth closed. The woman gave them a terse smile. She nced over her shoulder, then shook her head and looked back at them.


    Keep in mind that you are responsible for your safety when within the Realm, and that twenty percent of your earnings will be paid to your sect should you escape with your lives. Please take heed of any zones that you suspect house artifacts beyond your ability to im. We will pay handsomely for their locations.


    How are we supposed to know if an area has something too strong before we get it? Chance asked. I dont suppose theyre marked off somehow?


    That got him a dry look.


    If you survive, but just barely. There are too many ruins for the Azure Moon Coalition to properly investigate all of them, especially with how chaotic the Essence is here. Anything we marked down one day would be changed the next. Do you have any further questions?


    Yeah. Be pointed at the nearly upside-down castle in the sky. How do we get up there?


    That, the woman replied, is not my concern. Return to an exit point should you have any information to ry to the Azure Moon Coalition, and please keep in mind that we do not care about any interpersonal conflicts that may ur. Limit your contact with us to exit requests or information about the location of artifacts.


    With that, she vanished. Chance blinked, then waved a hand through the air where shed been standing. He turned to Be, who looked just as baffled as he did.


    Some sort of projection? Chance guessed. I dont think she was actually here.


    Im with you. We should be extremely careful until we figure out just how dangerous this ce is. I havent heard much about anything like this before, so Im just as in the dark as you are.


    Maybe we should put some distance between ourselves and the arrival point? Chance suggested. Theyre reallyying it on thick that its not their problem if we kill each other, so I think Id rather avoid running into other people anytime soon.


    Be nodded her agreement. They stepped off the stone circle and, after a few moments of deliberation, set off toward the mountains to the north. They walked past the first few buildings in the area, not stopping until theyd crested the first hill and had at least a little cover from anyone who might arrive after them.


    Chance stared up at the inds floating above them. He suddenly realized that, despite the blue sky peeking through the clouds, there was no sun. For that matter, he couldnt actually ce where any of the light wasing from. It was simply there.


    That looks like a good ce to take a short break, Be suggested, pointing at an overgrown stone house in their path. It had split down the middle, and dense vines had wrapped around most of the stone like a second skin.


    They slowed as they approached the building, reading their Essence in preparation for a fight, but the building was empty. If there had been anything of value there, someone had long since taken it. All that remained was a crumbling stone table and a single chair with one of its legs wedged into a crack in the ground.


    Chance tested out one of the walls to make sure it wouldnt pitch back, then leaned against it and ran a hand through his hair. Well. Cant say I was expecting to be here this morning. Damn. I was just starting to get settled into our room, too.


    I guess thats just how things are sometimes, Be said, sitting down on the edge of the table. That was certainly a faster escape than I was nning on making. We should thank your luck for getting us those tokens right before the Shikari showed up.


    Or for bringing the Shikari our way and forcing us to need the tokens, Chance said with a wry smile. I think it goes both ways. Luck is luck, and Im not sure whos the one that determines if its good or bad for me.


    Whats that supposed to mean? Be asked.


    Just something Ive been thinking about. Ill have to put more thought to it when I cultivate, but look at it like this: tripping is usually a bad thing, right?


    I suppose so.


    But tripping and avoiding a sword swing is a good thing.


    I see what youre getting at. Be leaned forward and rested her chin in the palm of her hand. You think your Karma powers are bringing bad scenarios to you as well as good ones, since they technically result in good things down the road?


    Kind of. I dont know how it works. I barely understand my own power, and I dont know if theres something out there in the universe that determines what good and bad Karma is. Still, Im sorry youre getting dragged into all of this. Good or bad, but I dont think anyone traveling with me is ever going to really get to rx for very long.


    Be rolled her eyes. Thest few months have been some of the best and most sessful of my life. I dont think I canin about anything. Whats bringing this on? We already knew the Shikari were after us, Chance. Its not like Im surprised that they caught up.


    They only caught up because I gave too much away on that job on the surface. We probably could have gotten away with resting for a while longer if I hadnt done it.


    Be slipped off the table and strode up to Chance. She flicked him in the forehead.


    Stop with that. Im pretty sure Ive already told you not to me yourself for stuff like this, didnt I? And your inability to let people alone is the reason I got out from under Vexs heel. Id be a massive hypocrite if I startedining about you trying to save everyone you can, even when its not logically the smartest move.


    Chance chuckled. Okay, fair point.


    Did something else happen when you were on the job? Be asked. You seem more pensive than normal.


    Several moments passed. Chance shifted his stance and reached into his pouch, fiddling with one of the vials of healing pills hed purchased. Be waited patiently until he spoke.


    The monster I fought was intelligent. His name was Seleth, Chance said. He said he was attacking the town, but he was just waiting around for cultivators to show up.


    Because cultivators have more Essence, Be said with a nod. Thats pretty normal. Wait. You spoke with it?


    Him, Chance corrected. He was honestly pretty amiable. I dont think Seleth wanted to kill people. He just didnt have a choice. It was the only thing he could do to survive.


    What was Seleth again?


    A giant crocodile monster.


    Youre sympathizing with a giant crocodile that has probably killed hundreds of people?


    Yeah.


    Be looked like she couldnt decide between being amused, baffled, or sympathetic. She settled for rubbing the bridge of her nose and shaking her head. Okay, I guess I should have seen thating. So what happened?


    I killed him.


    You saved a lot of people, Be pointed out.


    Yeah, I know. I dont feel bad for killing him. Chance chewed his lower lip in thought, then sighed. Im not sure what the right words are. I think he wanted me to kill him. If the scenario happened again, I wouldnt change how I acted. But why did it have to be like that in the first ce? Why can humans cultivate normally, but monsters cant?


    Thats not a question for me, Be admitted. I have no idea. I honestly never really thought about it. I dont think most try to reason with the monsters, since theyre too busy trying not to get killed.


    Yeah, I figured. Chance stepped away from the wall and walked around the table. He stopped by the remains of an overgrown window and idly tugged at the vines covering it, peeling them back so he could peer through it. My problem is that I thought the universe had a concept of fairness. I mean, if Karma is a thing, it has to, right? But Im not seeing it. Monsters are forced to kill to grow stronger, and people like Vex can rise to strength without punishment. Why?


    Be walked over to peer through the window Chance had made. It wasnt particrly useful, given that there was a huge crack in the wall right beside it that gave the exact same view.


    Maybe thats an answer youll find somewhere along your path. I certainly cant answer it myself.


    Yeah, Chance said. I guess all I can do is get strong enough to try and fix things. Im sure theres a way that monsters really can get stronger without killing, and the ones that dont want to do harm should have that opportunity.


    If there are enough monsters that would actually want to make that transition, it would be incredible. I cant even begin to imagine what that would change.


    It doesnt have to be a lot, Chance said. Just one would be worth it. I guess thats too far in the future to worry about now, though. Weve only got a few weeks in here, so we should try to make the most of it. The Shikari will be on the hunt again when we get out.


    Be nodded. Lets go. Theres got to be a way to get to those floating inds somewhere up ahead.


    They stepped through therge crack in the wall and set back off in the direction of the mountains. One way or another, they needed to get stronger.

 Chapter 89: Nate a good idea

    Chapter 89: Nate a good idea


    The first hour of walking went entirely without trouble. Not a single living thing bothered them, and there was no sign of any danger. That should have been the first warning.


    Chance and Be crested thest of the hills at the base of the mountains and started up toward their peaks. The trip was significantly aided by a wide, thick path the width of several houses that ran along the side of the mountain, making it more of an ufortable hike than a difficult obstacle.


    The side of the mountain was covered with thick foliage that only barely parted over the path. Large sections of it werepletely overshadowed by bulging, knotty trees whose branches stretched out over the road,pletely blocking out the light.


    A gentle wind rustled their leaves and caressed Chances face as he and Be ascended the mountain. He could practically taste the Essence in the air. It was so thick that it felt like he were suspended in water.


    Aside from their footsteps on the packed dirt and the delicate crunch of small weeds that had the misfortune to have grown in the path before them, it waspletely silent. The silence was so great that it wrapped around, the sheerck of noise turning into a dull roar in Chances ears.


    It wasnt a roar that he was actively aware of as much as aplete muting of one of his senses  his mind had simply stopped registering the subtle <em>nothingness </em>as anything of value. Neither he nor Be spoke, both lost in their own thoughts and moving on autopilot.


    That was when the monster struck. It blurred through the air, its lithe body shing past Be and disappearing into the foliage within seconds. The movement had been so fast that Chance barely even registered it.


    He shook his head, blinking heavily. Chance squinted at the rustling bushes, the only sign that there had even been something else on the path, then turned back to Be with a baffled expression.


    The question on his lips fell away as blood started to pour down Bes back from four deep cuts along her back. Theyd been so clean that it had taken her body a moment to realize that shed actually been cut.


    Be staggered and fumbled for her pouch. The bushes shuddered and Chance lunged. His urumi flew to his hand and he whipped it through the air, twisting the de in the process. The segmented weapon snaked out before him and the blurred form of the monsterunched itself back into the woods to avoid getting struck.


    Be! Are you okay? Chance desperately wanted to look back at her, but taking his attention from the monster for an instant would probably result with his own innards getting spilled across the ground.


    Fine, Be replied through gritted teeth in a strained voice. She spat on the ground. Im ready for it this time. It wont get me again. Focus on yourself.


    Chance inclined his head slightly. The bushes around them remained still. Evidently, the monster was hoping to wear out their patience until they let their guards down again. Chance directed the Essence flowing from his Gate into his forehead and opened his third eye.


    Strands of Karma formed through the leaves, leading into a bush just a short way behind them. Chances urumi snapped out. A tremor ran down the de and a pained yowl escaped from the bush.


    He yanked it back, sttering ck blood across the ground and forcing their opponent into the dim light filtering through the canopy for the first time. It was feline in form and roughly the size of arge dog, with motley green and brown fur. The monsters front paws were ufortablyrge, easily the size of dinner tes and with ws to match.


    Its dull yellow eyestched onto Chance and it arched its back, hissing as all the hair on its back stood straight up. Blood dripped from a shallow wound along its side, soaking into the dirt beneath it.


    One chance to run, Chance growled, his urumi at the ready.


    It charged him. Be darted past Chance and swung her knee up. The cat mmed into her, ws shing. They scraped across her skin with a dozen crystalline notes that were followed by a loud crunch as Be brought her elbow down on the monsters surprised head.


    It staggered, falling limp. Chance thrust his urumi forward and the pointed tip thunked through the back of the monsters neck and buried itself in the ground. The cat thrashed onest time, hissing and screaming in fury, but the fight left its body with its blood.


    Be kicked it hard in the head, putting the creature out of its misery. The wounds on her back were still trickling blood, but not nearly as profusely as they had been moments ago. Be grimaced, rolling her shoulders.


    Damn. That thing got me good, she cursed, rolling her shoulders. She craned her head back, trying to get a look at the wound, but couldnt. Good thing it was too stupid to keep trying hit and run tactics. How bad does it look?


    I dont think it expected you to survive getting wed a dozen times after one pass nearly killed you the first time, Chance said. He gently touched Bes back and she winced. And its not great. Cant you tell?


    No. Im using my Essence, Be replied. She sat down, pressing her lips together tightly. I already took healing pills, but theres only so much they can do at this level. I think damn thing nicked my heart.


    It doesnt look fatal right now. I think. Are you going to be okay?


    Ill be fine, Be replied through clenched teeth. Im more annoyed about getting so distracted. If that cut had just been a bit deeper, Id be dead.


    Chances hands tightened at his sides and he nodded, a wave of unease washing over him as he realized just how bad the situation had nearly be.


    <em>Theres only so much I can rely on Luck. It goes both ways. Damn it. </em>


    Can you move? Chance asked. We should find somewhere a little more defensible to wait while you recover. If there was one of those cat things, there are probably more.


    Be nodded. She gathered her strength and pushed herself to her feet before Chance could offer a hand in help. Lets go. My Essence will keep me alive until the pills manage to pull together thest bits. I dont want to risk taking more pills until the effects from the first ones fully wear off. Its not worth building up impurities over.


    Chance took the lead and they continued up the mountain. This time, Chance kept his Essence ready and his third eye open, and his head on a swivel.


    It saved them.


    A second cat monster tried its luck at finishing Be off just ten minutes of walkingter. Chance spotted the strands of Karma running off the monster out of the corner of his eye as it darted through the bushes in the distance, just barely visible.


    He called out a warning, but his urumi was already flying before the words had left his mouth. Essence swirled around the des, lighting it up a faint gold as it mmed into the monsters abdomen mid-lunge and pinned it into a tree.


    Chance flicked the de, ripping it free and dragging the razor-sharp segments along the deadly cats chest before the whistled back to ce. He snapped the de out once more, carving the creatures head off before it could even realize that it had been hit.


    Nice, Be said, giving him a small nod and lowering her hands. I dont think theyre used to people knowing where they are.


    Small mercies.


    No more monsters attacked them, and the thick foliage broke a short whileter. The road spilled out into a valley within the mountain, winding up toward its top. Large stones jutted out into the path, casting shadows over it and forming dozens of nooks and crannies.


    A loud wind howled through the pass, buffeting both of them as soon as they stepped out of the protective wall of trees. There was little foliage in the path beyond a few incredibly stubborn, half dead nts that had embedded themselves within the rocks and refused to let go.


    Through the stones, several strands of golden energy hung in the air. Chance narrowed his eyes, tracing them to spots behind several boulders.


    How are you holding up? Chance raised his voice so Be could hear him over the wind. It wasnt deafening, but it was more than aggressive enough to be an annoyance.


    Almost healed. Just a little stiff now.


    Good, because I see more Karmic threads ahead of us. Three, I think. Its too far for me to see details of who the threads are connected to.


    Probably not cats, theyre much more suited to the forest. A different kind of monster?


    Chance shrugged in response. They both stood at the edge of the treeline and squinted into the valley. Eventually, Chance stepped forward and drew in a deep breath and prepared to call out.


    <em>I know the likelihood of it being a sentient monster that would actively choose not to fight are pretty low, but Id rather avoid killing something that I dont need to kill if I can. </em>


    Before he could say a word, two women and a man stepped out from beyond the boulders, their hands raised in greeting. They all wore matching leather with metal tes covering vital locations.


    The man bore two swords at his side. His hair was short and blonde, and he wore an easygoing smile on his face. The woman to his side looked to be his sister or at least closely rted. She had matching hair and bright blue eyes. A crossbow rested at her hip, a bolt nocked but not pointed in their direction. The final woman had ck hair and no apparent weapons, and her expression was unreadable.


    Ho there! the man called. Peace!


    Peace, Chance called back, smiling in relief. Im Chance, and this is Be.


    Im Nate. My sister is Nadia, and the dourss behind me is Madeline. What sect are you with?


    Dancing Cloud. Chance lowered his urumi. What about you?


    Singing Fox. Youre so young looking, Nate said with a grin, speaking just loudly enough for the wind to carry his words over to them. Howd you manage to get here? I thought we were young, but Ive got to be at least ten years older than you.


    Luck and hard work. The three were still too far away for Chance to make anything out in their Karmic threads, but their smiles all felt genuine. We only just got here. Is there anything interesting up the mountain?


    No idea, Nadia said, rolling her eyes in annoyance. Weve been camping out in the valley behind us for the past few days. The monsters higher up it are a little too strong for us to risk fighting. Did you find anything interesting in the forest? We didnt have much luck there.


    Just some bloodthirsty cats, Chance said. We havent found anything here, actually. I guess all the good loot is up in the castles in the sky or hidden where we cant just stumble into it.


    Yeah, I remember those. They werent too much of a bother if you hunkered down and let them tire themselves out trying to get past your aura. Nate chuckled. He and the two women came to a stop a little over a dozen yards away from Chance and Be, and Chance finally managed to peer into the threads of Karma connected to Nate.


    Within them, he saw a dozen men and womens shocked faces as they fell to the ground, struck dead by calcted, fatal sword strikes and pierced through by arrows. Nadias eyes narrowed as Chance failed topletely disguise his expression.


    Not friends, Chance hissed urgently, an instant before Nadia fired her crossbow from her hip, not even raising the weapon to take aim.


    She didnt need to. The bolt slipped through the air and mmed into Bes neck  a perfect strike, executed in the fraction of a second and without the slightest hesitation. Nates grin grew cold as he raised his weapons, only to take pause.


    Instead of dropping to her knees, blood bubbling up from her lips from what should have been a fatal strike, Be didnt flinch. The bolt vibrated against her neck, unable to pierce through her skin. Be grabbed the bolt and flicked it to the side. It had only left a miniscule spot of blood on her.


    Ah, man, Chance said, calling on his Essence and surrounding himself with a thick cloak of golden mist. I wish you didnt do that. I really didnt want to have to fight you.

 Chapter 90: Nate a good idea

    Chapter 90: Nate a good idea


    Kill them. Nates smile melted from his face like snow in the afternoon sun and he drew his swords. me raced down their des, tongues licking into the air hungrily.


    Nadia mmed a second bolt into her crossbow and fired it at Chance. Streamers of wind enveloped and the bolt let out a shrill shriek as it shot through the air, heading a white vortex. Be yanked Chance out of the way and took the shot on her arm.


    Wood shattered and Bes hand snapped to the side from the force of the blow, but it failed to prate her defenses. Nate roared and sprinted in their direction. His footsteps left smoldering patches in the ground behind him.


    Chance adjusted his grip on his urumi and flowed to meet Nate. He swayed in ce, sliding past both swords as Nate sent two overhead shes hurtling past him. The heating off the weapons was enough to singe the hairs on Chances arms. Chance whipped the hilt of his urumi up into Nates chin with a loud crack.


    Nate staggered back and snarled, thrusting one of the swords for Chances chest while shifting the other to block the urumi as it snapped out toward him. Chance stumbled out of the way, narrowly dodging the blow. His urumi wrapped past Nates sword, snapping around the other side to score across the mans other arm.


    Chance nted his foot into Nates chest and sent him staggering back, right into Nadias path. Nadia swore and darted to the side, unable to get another shot off at them without hitting Nate in the process.


    Out of the corner of his eye, Chance spotted Madeline channeling Essence. He wasnt sure exactly what her aim was, but he doubted it was anything good. Nates sword whistled past his nose and Chance cartwheeled back.


    Eyes on me, Nate said with a cocky smile. You dont have the liberty to pay attention to others.


    Chance heard another bolt shatter against Bes skin. She was keeping herself between him and Nadia, but the Singing Fox cultivators outnumbered them.


    Nates entire body erupted in molten me. The heat pouring off him doubled in intensity and he let out a roar as he leapt at Chance, thrusting his des down like the fangs of a viper. Chances urumi whipped out and shot right past Nates neck.


    You missed! Nate roared. Chance threw himself forward and rolled to the side moments before Nate mmed into the ground where hed been standing. A wave of fire rose up from the impact zone, scorching his back.


    No, I didnt, Chance replied, turning back as golden mist materialized behind Nates head. He couldnt see Nates features through the fire engulfing his body. Madeline called out a warning as golden mist materialized behind Nate.


    He spun, but wasnt fast enough to stop the glowing sword that emerged from the air behind him from plunging into his chest. The mist materialized further, forming the hand and body of a weathered old man.


    The apparition ripped the glowing weapon free of Nates chest and he stumbled. Madeline grabbed a vial from her waist and threw it to Nate. Chance snapped his urumi out and the de shattered the vial, sending the pills spilling across the ground.


    Nate lunged for them  and dove face first into Bes knee as she appeared before him. His nose broke with a loud crack and he let out a strangled cry. Behind him, the ghostly old man gave Chance a small nod before his form blew away in the wind.


    Madeline screamed in fury and thrust her hands forward, finally unleashing the Essence shed been gathering. A violent gale of ck wind erupted from her palms, scouring the ground in front of her and swirling toward Chance.


    Be threw herself forward, putting herself between Chance and the Spell. Chances golden mist enveloped both of them an instant before the churning Essence mmed into Be. She snarled and Chance braced his hands against her back as she was shoved back into him.


    The wind enveloped them both. Chances stomach jumped in his chest and he nearly doubled over. Unease bubbled within him violently, forcing its way through his lips. His skin crawled like ants had burrowed into it and were chewing at his muscles and ligaments.


    Nate dragged himself to the pills, the fire covering him sputtering out as he grabbed one of them from the ground and shoved it into his mouth. He staggered to his feet, breathing heavily as the deep wound in his chest started to heal.


    Kill the boy first, he snarled, snatching his discarded swords from the ground.


    Im doing everything I can, Madeline said through gritted teeth. If I drop my Essence, theyll be able to fight back again.


    Nadia, shoot them! Nate ordered. Nothing happened. He frowned, then nced over his shoulder. Nadia was gone.


    Wheres Nadia? Nate asked, spinning in attempt to spot the woman.


    Find her yourself. Madelines hands trembled with exertion. Neither Chance nor Be had copsed from the onught of her Essence, and Bes eyes met Madelines through the churning darkness, the threat within them clear.


    A flicker of motion caught Nates attention to his side. He burst into mes, raising his swords defensively as he turned toward it. Nadias face stared back at him, and he let out a relieved sigh.


    What are you doing, idiot? Shoot them!


    Nadias body pitched forward. Her head remained suspended in the air as the rest of her crumpled to the ground, lifeless. A rocky de slithered back into the wall as a humanoid form pulled itself out from the stone with jerky movements. It had Nadias head speared on two of its fingers.


    Several eyes opened up on the stone body  several more than a human should have had, and none of them in the right ce. An extra arm jutted out from the center of its chest, hanging limply as the monster reached up to its face and dug a finger into the nk stone and dragged it through, forming a rough mouth.


    Human forms are so clunky, the Old Cityined, pulling itselfpletely free from the stone wall and throwing Nadias head to the side. So weak and fragile. And why only two eyes? It makes absolutely no sense.


    Nadia! Nate screamed. Madeline tore her gaze away from Chance and Be, and the Essence pouring out of her hands faltered for an instant.


    Be roared, charging forward through the weakened energy. Madeline jerked her eyes back to them, but it was toote. Be drove her shoulder into Madelines chest and knocked her onto her back.


    The Essence sputtered and fell away from her hands. Bes fist mmed into Madelines nose with such force that Madelines head bounced off the stone. Her body went limp.


    Nate charged the Old City with a wordless scream, rearing back to plunge his swords into it. A soft <em>snick </em>echoed through the mountain pass and he stumbled, slowing to a stop and lifting a disbelieving hand up to his neck.


    He pulled it back stained red. Nate took a stumbling step forward, then pitched to the ground, falling over the corpse of his sister and lying still. Chances urumi slithered back into his hand with a final, silent click.


    Wind howled through the pass, seemingly even louder than it had been before. Chance stood still for several moments. His urumi slipped back around his wrist, returning to a bracelet. Be put a hand on Chances shoulder.


    Im sorry.


    It was their choice, Chance replied softly. Idiots. Why would they just go around trying to prey on people?


    Because its easier than getting treasure from powerful monsters, the Old City said, pulling the improperly ced arm from its chest and tossing it to the side. Youre wee, by the way.


    Thanks, Chance said, still staring at the dead cultivators at their feet. I  yeah. Thanks, Ocie.


    Are you thankful enough to give me a better name than Ocie?


    A tiny smile flickered across Chances face. No.


    Ocie grunted in annoyance. It adjusted the eyes on its face, trying to find the proper spot to put them and failing miserably. After a few failed attempts, it dropped its hands to its sides. Figures. Just kill them earlier next time and save us all the trouble. I dont want to waste time I could be cultivating fighting weaklings. Did they have anything useful on them?


    Be knelt beside Madeline and pulled the pouch off her waist. She opened it and peered inside, then grimaced. This one didnt. Just the healing pills she threw to what was his name?


    Nate, Chance said, picking thest few pills off the ground and tucking them into his own bag. The vial had shattered when his urumi had hit it, and he had no desire to mix the pills with his until he knew exactly what they did. Not all healing pills were the same, and it was safer to use the ones hed grown used to so as to avoid any surprises mid-fight.


    Neither Nate nor Nadia had anything of any real interest either. The crossbow and swords all looked like normal weapons, and neither Chance nor Be had any use for them. Once it was clear that the fight was over, Ocie sank into the ground and vanished without even so much as a goodbye.


    Should we do something about this? Chance asked. Like bury them or the like?


    Do you think they would have done the same for us?


    No, probably not.


    Yeah. Its all they deserve. Its not even like we werepeting over an artifact or some powerful pill. They were just scum, Be said. She wrapped a hand around Chances shoulders and gently pulled him toward the mountain path before them. Lets just keep moving. Dont lose sleep over people like this. If anything, we helped other cultivators that they would have preyed on in the future.


    Yeah, I know. Youre right. Lets just keep moving, Chance said, shaking his head as they started up the path toward the top of the mountain once more. Its just disappointing that there are people that choose to do that when they have the option to get stronger just through hard work and cultivation. Not everyone has that opportunity. It was wasted on them.


    Be just nodded silently. The wind roared above them as continued, but theyd both learned their lesson about letting their guard down for even an instant. Chance kept his third eye open, scanning for the slightest traces of Karma. He didnt n on getting ambushed three times in one day.

 Chapter 91: Craggy path

    Chapter 91: Craggy path


    Chance and Bes ascent up the craggy path went far smoother than either of them had expected it to, but that almost made it even more stressful. Every jutting stone and fallen boulder threatened to hide monsters behind it, and Chance made a double take at every shadow they passed.


    The howling wind added to their stress, making it impossible to rx or even consider enjoying any portion of the hike. But, somehow, the danger that they both expected never seemed to arrive.


    After several hours of walking, Chance and Be hunkered down behind arge boulder at the side of the road to take shelter from the wind and set up camp. They traded off watches throughout the night, but still nothing came.


    The following morning brought much of the same with it. They walked through the day, even more cautious than they had been the day before, but not a single thread of Karma appeared before Chances watchful eyes.


    Despite the threat the mountain held, the view from the mountain was beautiful. As they grew closer to its peak and the inds floating in the air alongside it, they got a better view of the Realm below.


    Large portions of the realm were walled off by other mountains. Between them, Chance could make outrge ruins and lower hanging inds. Many of the ruins scattered across thendscape rose into the sky, some even taller than the floating inds. Chance asionally spotted shes of Essence within and above them as cultivators fought.


    Chance and Be were growing closer to the highest of the floating inds  but there was still no apparent way to actually get onto them from the mountain. A part of him started to wonder if theyd made the right choice, but he never voiced his concern.


    They trudged on, eventually leaving the craggy rocks behind and emerging onto a t, spiraling path. It was considerably tighter than the previous area, but mercifully the wind had let up as well.


    Chance wasnt sure why the wind was weaker at the top of the mountain, but he wasnt about to question his luck either. He and Be continued upward, continuously growing closer to the inds.


    Several times, one of the inds floated by so closely that Chance felt like he almost could have jumped onto it if he had a running start and a death wish. Unfortunately, for the ones that did get that close, it was always the bottom of the ind rather than the top, so getting onto the actual ruins would have been an arduous climb at best and a fall to his death at worst.


    With no other realistic option, they just climbed.


    And climbed.


    And, as the light of the day started to fade and a strong chill set in, sweeping over Chance and Be like a nket of snow, they reached the peak of the mountain. They were greeted by a stone circle covered in runes, roughly two arm spans wide.


    It only took a single nce to confirm that, though the circle bore a strong resemnce to the way theyd entered the Realm, it wasnt meant to serve the same purpose. An arrow had been carved in its center, pointing to the north. Around it, in a separate ring that had been iid in the main circle, were a dozen inds.


    The ring of inds rotated soundlessly, moving at a slow but steady pace. On the stone, an ind approached the end of the arrow. Chance nced up, following the arrow, to see an ind moving to float before them.


    Ill give you one guess as to what this thing does, Be said with a dry smile.


    Im not even going to bother answering that. It does pose a question, though. What ind do we want to go to? I dont know how easy itll be to get back here after we get teleported, and Id rather not have to climb the mountain again.


    Be knelt by the rotating disk, studying the inds carved into it. Theyre all the same on here, as far as I can tell. Guess weve got to make the decision from looking at the inds as they float by. There are twelve on the disk and it looks like itll take roughly thirty minutes for it to do a full rotation.


    Chance nodded, looking back up at the ind floating past them. It was one of the few that was actually right side up, but the ruins on it were rather small. It looked like a small cluster of one story stone houses that had been abandoned to the elements for a few hundred years.


    Not that one, Chance said. Am I wrong in assuming that a bigger ruin probably means better stuff?


    As good a guess as any. More spots for things to go unnoticed, and bigger usually means richer. Also more dangerous, though.


    Chance squinted into the distance at the next ind in the rotation. It was difficult to see in the dimming light due to its distance, but it was several timesrger than the one currently before them, and he could just barely make out the outline of a cracked spire in the purple sky.


    Do we want to wait for them all to rotate around? Chance asked.


    We should at least wait for the next one. I think the current ind is a no. How urate do you think we need to be with this?


    Lets not take risks. Id like to imagine theyd have set this up to locate the nearest ind rather than just send us straight forward, but Im not betting my life on it.


    Agreed, Be said with a nod.


    They watched the current ind slowly slide away on the disk and the next shift to take its ce over the course of the next few minutes. As it grew closer, Chance managed to make out several smaller buildings beneath the spire, alongside arge, rectangr structure that was heavily overgrown with purplish vines.


    Chance instinctively called on his Essence. Golden mist pooled at his feet, slithering over the circle coiling into the air as the inds slowly rotated across the stone beneath it. He and Be sat in silence, enjoying the moment of peace and observing the inds as they passed.


    There were clearly far more than twelve inds in the sky, so their choices were limited. Still, the mountain gave them a wide variety of options. The inds ranged from small to massive, with one of them being nearly asrge as the mountain they stood on.


    Ruins of all shapes and sizes covered them and no two inds looked alike. Bes guess ended up nearly exactly on the dot, and the first ind theyd spotted started its return just a little over thirty minutes past their arrival.


    Well, thats all of them, Be said. Any thoughts?


    Probably not the biggest or the smallest. Maybe something close to the middle? Its fairly likely that other cultivators have gone through this way before us, right? So theyd probably have taken the best looking inds. Going for something a bit above average might be more likely to put us somewhere that others haventpletely looted yet.


    Good idea, Im with that reasoning. But there are quite a few inds that meet those criteria. Any thoughts on which one?


    Why do I have to choose?


    Youre the lucky one.


    Chance opened his mouth, then closed it again. Thats a good point.


    He sent a little more Essence into the golden mist beneath his feet and it curled in response. The streamers slipped along the ground and gathered above the sigil of the ind that was just starting to creep toward the arrow  the second one theyd seen, with the cracked spire.


    We should have just done that from the start, Be muttered. Has anyone ever told you how unfair your Essence is? I feel like its practically cheating.


    Hey, youre the one that suggested it.


    Be rolled her eyes. Yeah, yeah. Its great as long as I get to abuse it as well. Well jump onto the circle as one when the arrow is lined up with the ind.


    They waited in silence and the disk continued its rotation in the circle, matching the movements of the inds. Even though it was moving at the exact same speed, Chance could have sworn that it had slowed down just to spite him.


    Do you think the inds set the speed of the disk, or other way around? Chance asked.


    Be looked at him out of the corner of her eyes, then frowned. Dont make me think about that right now. Its just going to make me think about someone screwing up the calibration and getting us stted into the side of the ind instead of on top of it.


    <em>I guess I wont ask about how gravity works on the upside down inds, then. I figure its probably reversed or something. Ive seen weirder things in Gleam.</em>


    Dont worry. Chance grinned and gave Be a thumbs up. Im lucky.


    Do not make that your catchphrase. Thats basically asking to get smited at the worst possible time.


    Hey, you pointed it out first!


    Im not the one that actually has the luck magic. The rules are different.


    Oh, I didnt realize you made the rules, Chance drawled, a small smirk on his face. Be scrunched her nose in a mixture of amusement and annoyance.


    Whatever. Get ready to jump, lucky.


    Chance gave her a mock salute. The carving of the ind on the ring crept forward, sliding further into the path of the arrow as itsrger correspondent floated before them. Chance and Be watched the ring with narrow eyes, waiting for the exact moment where the ind was perfectly centered with the arrow.


    Now! Be said, grabbing Chances hand and jumping forward. Chance jumped with her, and their feet hit the center of the stone circle as one.


    Chance braced himself for a rush of Essence.


    It never came. He blinked, then looked down at his feet. The stone circle was still. He raised his eyes to meet Bes.


    Huh. I really thought that would


    White Essence erupted around them and filled the air with a furious roar. It lit the night up with a brilliant beam that swallowed Chance and Be whole, ripping them away from the ground.


    They vanished within the brilliant light, streaking off toward the ind that the arrow had been pointing at like a shooting star. The light carved through the sky and alighted in arge courtyard in the center of the ind.


    Behind them, the stone circle continued to rotate. The energy began to dim as the arrow started shifting away from the ind. As it dimmed, a dark form rose up from the path leading up the mountain and shot forward, vanishing into the beam of light just seconds before its brilliance faded away, casting the night into shadows once more.


    A ripple of Essence shimmered upon the stone ring. The image of the ind that theyd just jumped to shimmered and blew away in the wind, leaving no trace of its passing.

 Chapter 92: Run

    Chapter 92: Run


    Hard cobbled ground materialized beneath Chances feet. His knees buckled as he mmed into it with far more force than he had expected. Chances training kicked in and he rolled forward with his momentum, rising to his feet. His left foot caught on the edge of a cracked tile that stuck up at an angle, and he pivoted around it to avoid injuring his ankle.


    The movement carried him straight into Bes path. Chance caught her as she stumbled, keeping her from falling over. Thest vestiges of the golden mist peeled away from Chance, and they exchanged a silent nce for a few moments.


    Thanks, Be said, taking a step back and pushing a strand of curly hair behind an ear. She turned, taking in the courtyard. Chance scanned it as well, searching for strands of Karma or anything that would indicate another cultivator was already here.


    He found nothing. Large purple vines covered in dense thorns wound around the edges of the stone walls that ringed the courtyard. They wove clean through the stone rather than around it, and piles of rubbleid beneath where the vines had punched through.


    Brilliant yellow flowers dotted the vines, their huge petals shaped vaguely like lightning bolts attempting to free themselves from the borderline golden, antennalike stamens. The faintest traces of a sweet scent tickled Chances nostrils, a mixture of distant honey and bitter fruit.


    Several other tall stone buildings stood beyond the walls, but Chance couldnt see most of them over the vines. Far above everything else, the cracked spire cast a shadow over the courtyard and arge portion of the ind.


    I dont see anyone else here, Chance said, speaking softly. Even though the ind looked empty, something about it made him hesitant to speak loudly. Unease prickled at the back of his mind and made the hair on his arms stand on end.


    Neither do I, Be replied in the same tone. She nced over her shoulder and wrapped one of her arms around her chest, frowning. I dont see any way off the ind. Theres no pattern in the courtyard.


    Well have to find it, then. Chances expression changed to match Bes. He looked back, half hoping that shed just missed a rune circle somewhere, but Be was right. All that greeted him was in, cracked stone. Do you feel a bit


    Uneasy? Be finished. Yeah. It feels like Im somewhere Im not supposed to be.


    Like my hands caught in the cookie jar when Im on a diet, Chance said with a nod. Be raised an eyebrow at his analogy and Chance scrunched his nose at her. What? Its a perfectly good way to describe it.


    Sure. I guess the only way to move is forward, then. Should we get over the wall and head toward the tower? Its tall, so I figure anything important is going to be over there. Thats how these things work, right?


    Your guess is as good as mine.


    They approached the wall in the direction of the spire. Chance hopped up, grabbing onto the lip of a jutting stone with one hand, and pulled himself up to a hole in the wall with a grunt. He wedged his other hand into it and, swinging once,unched himself for another protruding stone.


    Golden mist gathered at his fingertips and the stone creaked beneath his weight, but it held strong. Chance pressed his feet against the wall and swung his body up, reaching the lip of the wall. He swung his legs over it and then turned to extend a hand down to Be.


    She took several steps back, then charged at the wall with all her speed. She leapt as she grew close,unching herself at an angle and using the first handhold that Chance had grabbed as a boost to vault upward.


    Chance mmed his urumi into the body of a thick, thorny vine beside him as leverage and leaned down as far as he could. His hand pped against Bes wrist. For an instant, he felt her start to slip. Chances tightened his fingers around her wrist and Be did the same to his. Chance leaned back, pulling Be over the edge of the wall.


    Be rolled to her feet and lifted Chance to his, and they turned away from the courtyard. The top of the wall was actually the roof of a t, rectangr building that ran along the edge of the courtyard. An open doorway led into the darkness across from them, and taller buildings rose up all around them, blocking off the way to the spire that loomed over all.


    Unless we want to do a whole lot of climbing, it looks like the way forward is in, Be said. She didnt sound happy about it, and Chance couldnt help but agree. He almost wanted to suggest sticking to climbing and using his luck to make sure it didnt go poorly, but the back of his neck prickled violently just at the mere thought.


    In it is.


    Chance kept his urumi at the ready as they approached the entrance. Be took the lead, her skin shimmering with a translucentyer of protective Essence. She poked her head into the darkness, looking in both directions before stepping further. Chance kept close behind her, searching for any signs of Karmic threads.


    There were none. Dim light illuminated the empty hall that stretched out before them, somehow illuminating every single part of it without any actual light source in sight. There were no windows or doors anywhere along the path  it simply ran straight until it hit a sharp turn.


    Their faint footfalls echoed ominously down the hall as Chance and Be headed down it. Chance kept tossing nces over his shoulder at the entrance as they walked away from it. He wasnt sure if he expected it to suddenly m shut or a horrifying visage to appear in it, but at this point, the unease was so strong that he would have preferred if <em>something </em>happened.


    Instead, all they got was nothing. The bend of the hall led down another bend. Be looked back at Chance, and they exchanged a silent understanding through the nce.


    <em>This ce is creepy. </em>


    They continued onward, following the second hall. The faint light apanied them everywhere they went, making sure every step of their path looked borderline identical to thest. The only mercy was that there were no options to take. There was only a single hallway and no way to divert or get lost.


    <em>At least its not a maze, I guess. Its kind of like the Old City, if everything was in a straight line and there werent any dogs trying to kill me. Or Yamish. Or the Old City itself. Actually, its not very much like the Old City at all. </em>


    Just as Chance was almost starting to get used to the walk, falling into thefort of his thoughts, the hall abruptly ended. They emerged into what had probably once been a room, but enormous vines had wound through it and ripped the roof clean off, suspending it in the air above them.


    Chance craned his neck back to stare up at the roof, then through the gap between it and the walls into the darkening night sky. A streak of light flitted through it. If Chance hadnt known better, he would have guessed that it was a shooting star.


    Look, Be whispered, pointing across the room at the far wall. A heavily reinforced metal door stood, embossed with glittering tiles depicting an armor-d warrior standing against a horde of enemies.


    His armor was fashioned from purple gemstone, and vines of a matching color writhed at his feet, frozen in time as they reached out for the warriors foes. Chance stared at the mural in mute appreciation. It was hauntingly beautiful.


    Something tells me things didnt go too great for the red guys considering the state this ce is in.


    Probably not. I dont think they would have put up something this beautiful for someone who was fighting against them. The background doesnt look like this ind, though.


    Maybe it was one fight of many? Chance mused. A part of his legend or something.


    Then what happened here?


    He met something he couldnt beat.


    Be gave him a somber look. I guess I shouldnt have asked that. Should we try to get through the door?


    Its not even the spire yet. Were supposed to be looking for stuff, so we should probably at least give it a try, Chance said after several moments of deliberation. Want me to go first with my luck?


    Be nodded and he stepped forward, wreathing himself in a cloak of golden Essence. Chance pressed his hand to the door. There was no doorknob, which meant it was either a push door or it needed Essence to activate.


    Chance braced himself for an attack or a trap. The door swung inward silently, moving without resistance. It thudded against a wall and the sound bounced through the room before escaping out the gap between the walls and the ceiling.


    Oh. Well, that wasnt what I expected. Chance lowered his hand. The room behind the door was small, with no other entrances or exits in it. A single, solitary wooden chest sat in the center of the room, unlocked but closed.


    Think its a trap? Be asked.


    At this point, I kind of hope it is, Chance muttered. He and Be approached the chest cautiously. Chance knelt before it and Be shifted, watching him like a hawk as he slowly lifted the top of the chest back.


    Chance made sure to move as slowly as possible, and he paused after just an inch to check if there was some sort of wire trap set up. All that greeted him was darkness. After ncing at Be and receiving a shrug, he called on his Essence before pushing the top of the chest up the rest of the way.


    It opened withoutint and Chance leaned it against the back wall as gently as he could to avoid making any more sound than he had to. Sitting in the center of the chest was a single ring, made of three strands of woven, silvery wood.


    Chance shifted to look at the ring from other angles, but he couldnt see anything connecting it to the chest or otherwise impeding them from removing it.


    Should we take it? Chance asked.


    I mean, someone left it here. Its not even in a grave or anything, Be replied. I originally though this would be grave robbing, which is always a little bit morally questionable, but this well, it kind of seems like somebody left it out for people to find. Should I pick it up since my Essence should protect me?


    I think luck would probably be more relevant here, Chance said. He dug through his pockets and pulled out a handkerchief. Luckily, Ive got this backup.


    You think a little piece of cloth is going to protect you if thats somehow dangerous or evil?


    Its better than nothing.


    I cant argue with that.


    Chance wreathed himself with Essence and reached into the chest with the handkerchief. He draped it over the ring and picked it up. Nothing happened. He blinked, then shrugged and lifted his hand out of the chest.


    Well we got a ring. No idea what it does. If it does anything.


    Thats a problem forter, Be said. If its not doing anything, maybe I should hold onto it. Im keeping myself protected, but who knows how long luck will protect you if its actively malicious.


    Chance nodded. He made sure the ring waspletely covered with the handkerchief and handed it to Be, who tucked it into one of her pockets.


    I guess well have to climb onto the roof and head toward the next building, then, Be said.


    They turned away from the chest, looking into the vine-ravaged room.


    Into the hallway that theyde through before.


    A tall, gangly limbed figure made entirely of ck stood, hunched over so severely that its body nearly formed an upside down <em>u </em>shape. Its limbs hung long and spindly, no thicker than a single bone, and its face was featureless.


    Freezing cold raced down Chances back and into his spine.


    The figure vanished.


    Chances heart hammered in his chest and goosebumps erupted over his body.


    Did you see that?


    Yeah, Be whispered. I have no idea what it was. We need to run. Now.

 Chapter 93: Scream

    Chapter 93: Scream


    Chances heart mmed in his chest, bucking like a runaway racehorse. Golden mist swirled off every footstep as he and Be darted across the stone roof. Chance vaulted up a wall, digging his urumi into the top and pulling him over before reaching down to grab Bes outstretched hand and yank her up.


    Theyd been running for several minutes, and the hunched creature theyd seen in the doorway had yet to show itself again. Despite that, Chance couldnt shake the chill from his back or make his hair stop standing up.


    Something about the shadowy figure evoked a primal fear from deep within his soul, one that made every single instinct he had scream to run for cover. Bes eyes were just as wild as Chance felt, and her breath came in short puffs as she scanned the rooftops.


    What was that? Be demanded, backing up until her shoulder touched Chances. He was grateful for the reminder that he wasnt alone with whatever that creature was.


    I have no idea. I dont see it anymore.


    But I can feel it. Be turned, her hands raised defensively in a fighting stance before her. That thing is <em>wrong. </em>It shouldnt exist. Nothing should make people feel like that. Like


    Prey, Chance finished. We need to get off this ind. The only way off is to locate the other transportation circle, though.


    It might be at the top of the tower. Be tore her eyes away from the rooftops and looked up, where the tall, broken spire rose up over the rest of the ind. It was still a good trip away. The idea of having to get all the way up it while avoiding whatever the thing in the hallway was made Chance shudder.


    If we run into it on the tower


    Lets not think about that, Be said. I take it youre in agreement about getting out of here as fast as possible?


    Yesterday, if we could. Lets go.


    They set off, moving as briskly as they dared without making too much noise. Now that Chance couldnt see the monster anymore, his only hope was that its hearing wasnt very good. Be had the same idea, and they spoke little over the next few minutes.


    The jagged rooftops nted and pitched in odd angles, as if a massive earthquake had torn the ind apart years ago. Many of the buildings were partially crumbled in, and thick purple vines covered the ground everywhere.


    Theyd lifted some buildingspletely from the ground, suspending them in the air like strange Christmas ornaments. Everything about the ind felt surreal. Chance couldnt keep his neck from craning back as they walked underneath a several story building that was held in the air by a massive of thorny vines, ripped into four pieces but still somehow connected by thin strands of stone and wood.


    The spire grew closer, and they continued to weave across the rooftops, avoiding any further ventures into the open doorways that littered the buildings. No promise of riches was enough to convince either Chance or Be to risk running into the monster in an enclosed space.


    Chances goosebumps eventually started to fade. It had been over fifteen minutes since theyd seen the monster, and theyd crossed over most of the ground between them and the base of the spire.


    He squinted at every shadow they passed, but the irrational paranoia that it had inflicted was fading away bit by bit.


    <em>Maybe we lost it, or it just didnt care about us at all. I guess we were kind of trespassing in its house, right? It could have just been trying to spook us. Yeah. Thats it. </em>


    Chances mental words of affirmation didnt do much to ease his nerves, but they were better than nothing. He and Be finally scaled thest wall and arrived at the center of the ind before the tower.


    It stood in the center of what had once been an open stone courtyard. Enormous vines stretched out from it in every direction, breaking through the stone and winding deeper into the ind. They were far thicker than any of the other vines that Chance had seen so far. Some of the thorns were half as tall as he was.


    If there was a doorway at the ground floor, it would bepletely inessible now. The gaps in the jagged vines were few and far in between. Anything that jumped into the courtyard would probably be ripped to shreds.


    It looks like this is where the vines originated, Be said, looking over the edge of the wall they stood on into the mess of purple nts below. I wonder what happened.


    As long as we can get out of here, Im not sure I care, Chance admitted. He looked up the tower, then pointed at a window. It had long since been broken, but wasrge enough to fit through. We could try getting in through that.


    As good an idea as any. The tower has a lot of good handholds sticking out of it. With a running start we could reach it no problem. Are you confident you can grab onto it, though? If you dont


    Chance nced down at the vines and grimaced. Ill be fine. You?


    Maybe you go first, Be said. I think my Essence would protect me from the vines if I fell, but Id rather not find out theyve got some stupid Essence of their own that ends up cutting me to shreds.


    Chance nodded. He called on his Essence and it leapt to respond, swirling around him. It moved with a little more trepidation that he was used to, as if it were also uneasy. The strain of constantly calling on it was starting to tug at the back of his mind, but it wasnt serious yet.


    After backing up a few steps to the edge of the roof they currently stood on, Chance charged forward and jumped. He raised his urumi above his head, sending Essence into its de and bracing himself.


    He mmed into the tower wall and drove the urumi into it. It carved through the stone, wedging itself firmly within it. Chance grunted as the air was knocked from his lungs, but he kept a hold of the urumis hilt and found his footing from under him.


    Step by step, he scaled the wall of the tower, his fingers finding purchase on the dusty, protruding sections between the cracks in the stone. They were surprisingly easy to hold, but the yawning mouth of purple void beneath him made it the most nerve wracking climb hed made that day.


    He reached the window and poked his head through it. The room beyond was small, only upied by several small wooden drawers that had fallen over, spilling the clothes contained within them across the ground. The drawers had fallen in such a way that they blocked the door on the other side of the room. Everything was covered with a heavyyer of dust that tickled Chances nose, threatening to pull out a sneeze.


    Chance scrunched his nose and took a slow breath, wiping it against his shoulder and repressing the urge. Once it passed, he pulled himself up and slipped through the window. He turned, watching as Be leapt from the roof.


    One of her hands failed to find its grip and her feet slipped out from under her. Chances chest tightened and panic bubbled up, but Be braced her feet against the wall and managed to find her grip with both hands.


    Chance let out a slow breath as she mbered up the side of the tower. He grabbed Bes hand once she got high enough and pulled her through the window. They both staggered away from it and stared back out over the rooftops, searching for the shadowy figure.


    Up it is, Be said, shaking her head and turning her back to the window. She grabbed the fallen drawers and raised them with one hand. The wood creaked and dust cascaded down as Be pushed the furniture back against the wall.


    Chance coughed, waving the dust away and pulling his shirt over his nose to muffle his choking.


    Sorry, Be whispered. My Essence protects my airways too.


    Chance waved his hand dismissively. Its fine. Lets just get out of here.


    Be tiptoed through the piles of ancient clothes and carefully pulled the door open. She poked her head out, ncing in both directions, then stepped out of the room. Chance followed her onto a long, winding staircase.


    His eyes widened in awe. The center of the tower waspletely hollow. The stairwell wound all the way down to the bottom and up to the top in a continuous path, with doorsid all along the walls during the ascent.


    An enormous vine ran through the center of the tower in a pir, running from the peak all the way down to the thick, thorny mass on the ground. Smaller vines sprouted from all along it, jutting through the walls and over parts of the stairway.


    Chance and Be wordlessly started up the stairs. They moved cautiously, slowing every time they passed a door and readying to fight against anything that might burst out of it, but the attack never came.


    They ducked below a thick vine that extended at head level and then carefully scaled another that was just a few steps farther along the path. Every so often, the tower creaked as a breeze passed over the ind.


    It was louder near the holes in the wall that grew more numerous the higher up they grew, the howling akin to that of a pack of mourning wolves. The air grew chillier as well  and at an rming rate.


    Both Chance and Be were both shivering after just a few minutes of climbing, and they hadnt gone nearly that high up in the atmosphere.


    Slowly but steadily, they continued to make their way up the stairs. The top of the stairwell came into view, stopping before a sturdy wooden door iid with metal. Beside it, the walls of the tower had beenpletely torn away and reced with a thick cascade of vines.


    Chance approached the door warily.


    Metal lining covered its edges and wound through its center in a swirling pattern that didnt seem to have any purpose beyond decoration. There was no knob, but the hinges still looked functional.


    He couldnt ce it, but something about it felt off. It was certainly more intricate than the other doors theyd passed, but he would have expected that from the entrance to the top of what had once been a grand tower.


    Lets go, Be whispered. Even if there isnt a rune circle to get us out of here, when were at the top of the tower, well have a better look at the rest of ind. Maybe well be able to spot it.


    Chance nodded. He nudged the door with the hilt of his urumi. It swung easily. Mildly surprised, he pushed it open fully. A strong wind buffeted Chance, blowing his hair back and forcing him to squint.


    The top of the tower waspletely open to the elements. Something had ripped its entire roof off  probably vines, if he had to guess  and most of the walls had either crumbled away or were well on their way to.


    The open space wasrger than hed originally thought it was. It was easily the size of the Whiteheart House, maybe evenrger. At the center of the open tform was arge throne. It was carved of the same material as the tower around it, but it was taller than Chance and covered with detailed carvings and runes. The throne faced away from them, looking out through a hole in the wall over the ruined ind sprawling beneath.


    Look! Be whispered, thrusting a finger at the base of the throne, where a rune circle had been carved into the ground. It was difficult to tell if the circle was the same as the one that had sent them to the ind, but Chance was just about ready to settle for anything.


    He took a step toward it, a relieved smile crossing his face, then froze. His spine was so cold that it burned, like someone had poured ice down his back. An invisible static energy in the air slithered across his skin, making every single hair stand on end.


    Be took a step toward the rune circle and Chance grabbed her arm, yanking her to a halt. She nced at him in surprise.


    What?


    Somethings wrong, Chance said.


    He called on his Essence forfort.


    <em>Where is it? What am I sensing?</em>


    The shadow cast by the throne twitched. Chances throat tightened and Be drew in a sharp breath as it lengthened, rising up in front of the throne. The faceless monster unfurled to its full height, towering at more than twice theirbined height. Even without eyes, Chance could tell that it was staring straight at them.


    Chance and Be stood frozen as the monster raised a gangly hand to its face and dug deep into its tarlike skin. It dragged a curved line through its face, digging a section out and leaving a jagged mockery of a mouth.


    The discarded flesh sttered onto the ground at its feet. Its makeshift mouth widened in a soundless scream. Chances Essence quailed in fear and he shoved it into his third eye, shoving it open.


    An empty void greeted him. There wasnt a single strand of Karma connected to the monster. It was a swirling mass of nothing,cking all connection to life. Its mouth split even wider and a scream split the air  not from the monster, but the tower itself.


    Stones shuddered and creaked, desperately trying to pull themselves away from the creature above them. Vines peeled away from the walls, ripping themselves to shreds and pitching down to the ind below. The air grew still as the wind itself vanished.


    A wall of force mmed down on Chance and, with a pop, his Essence vanished. He fell to one knee, his eyes wide with terror as the oppressive presence wound around his chest and started to constrict. Be fell beside him, doubling over and retching.


    The faceless monsters mouth stretched wider still. And then  only then  did it start screaming.

 Chapter 94: Peace

    Chapter 94: Peace


    Terror crashed into Chance like a tidal wave. It wormed into his senses and dug at his mind, desperately trying to take root in his psyche. Chance gritted his teeth, desperately drawing on his Essence and trying to repel the feeling.


    The fear wasnt natural. Sure, the monster was terrifying, but the magnitude of his response was irrational. Somehow, it was influencing his thoughts. Chance drew more Essence from his Gate, directing it toward his head in an attempt to block out the monsters influence.


    A loud bang echoed through the room as the door mmed shut, sealing their escape. Chance and Be both backed up until their backs were pressed to the cracking stone and there was nowhere else to retreat from the faceless horror before them.


    Chances Essence flitted from his grasp, doing everything it could to avoid being summoned. It was as if the Essence itself was terrified. The monster took a step toward them, apparently savoring their inability to act.


    It wrapped its gangly arms around itself with sudden, jerky movements. Its fingers dug deep into its body and it dragged deep furrows down through itself, shuddering in ecstasy. ck flesh bubbled up from the wounds, forming into screaming faces that pressed against the prison of its skin before bursting like bubbles.


    Chance! Be screamed. I cant use my Essence!


    Me neither, Chance hissed, barely able to force the words from his lips. His eyes darted from side to side, searching for an escape, but there was nowhere to run. They were trapped in the room with the screaming creature.


    Invisible bands constricted around Chances chest, making it harder to breath. He started to hyperventte despite his best efforts to control himself. Chance bit his lip hard and the taste of copper flooded his mouth, but it did nothing to return his autonomy.


    Slowly, inevitably, the monster took another step forward. It threw its head back and screamed, raising its hands up and digging them into the top of its skull. With a sudden jerk, it tore its own head in two.


    ck liquid bubbled out from the wound, carrying the desperate, screaming visages trapped within the monster. Chance managed to force a little energy back into his third eye. It onlysted for an instant before it sputtered out, but his blood ran even colder.


    While the monster itself waspletely devoid of Karma, the faces within it had thin, barely visible strands of Karma running out from them. Before Chance could see more, the monsters flesh bubbled and sealed over, cutting the Karmic ties.


    It took another lurching step toward them. A hand extended, its jagged fingers reaching for Chances neck. It screamed and brought its other hand shing down, cutting its own limb off.


    The severed limb sttered to the ground in a pool of ck liquid. Screaming visages surged, desperately trying to free themselves to no avail. The puddle slithered back to the monsters feet, rejoining the main body as its hand regrew.


    Chances brain refused to cooperate with him. He was barely able to put his thoughts together. The screaming filled his mind and locked his limbs. All he could do was watch like a deer in the headlights as the monster fought against itself, moving closer to him and Be step by step.


    His vision started to blur as his own body rebelled, trying to shut down and protect itself from the abomination before him. And, if it shut down, Chance knew that hed never wake up again.


    He screamed internally, battling with his own Essence to try and regain control of his powers. Dimly, out of the corner of his eyes, he caught a glimpse of Be. Shed fallen to her knees, her eyes ssy and nk. She swayed in ce, unseeing.


    The abomination stumbled forward. It snapped its neck to the side, gurgling and snarling, then pulled it back into ce. Tremors rocked its arm as it let it extend, reaching for Bes neck.


    <em>Help! Someone, please!</em>


    Long, grotesque fingers grew closer to Be. The monsters body wasnt rebelling against it any more. It was going to reach her and bring her inside itself, just like all the other forsaken souls within the creatures body.


    <em>Please! HELP!</em>


    There was no response. Chances body stubbornly remained frozen, refusing to do anything but watch. Not even the Old City responded. Perhaps it too was frozen, or maybe it simply had no way to manifest itself here.


    Chance didnt know. He didnt care. All he saw was the hand of death, gradually preparing to wrap around Bes throat. It reached her neck and, finger by finger, started to tighten.


    No matter how hard Chance begged or fought, his Essence refused to act. It was just as terrified as he was. Desperation flooded Chances body. He tried to beg the monster to stop  to at least take him first, so he wouldnt have to watch Be consumed  but he couldnt even do that.


    Thest finger closed around Bes throat. The monsters body shuddered and it raised her into the air, bringing her limp body closer to itself.


    And then, in the sea of fear and panic that enveloped Chance, there was a spark of nothing. The understanding that he had absolutely no way to do anything about his current situation. He was simply too weak. Luck was simply that  luck. It couldnt change fate. And, against a monster with no Karma of its own, his current abilities were worthless.


    If he were Yamish, perhaps he could have done something. The Old City might have been powerful enough to resist the monsters terror, or maybe it could have muscled it away. But Chance  Chance had nothing left. Nothing he could call on.


    The universe didnt even watch on indifferently  it wasnt watching on at all. It didnt care. Within a few moments, Chance and his Karma would be nothing. He and Be would be forgotten by most. Yamish would move on to his thousands of other projects, and Yeo would never discover what had happened to them.


    Chances shoulders slumped. There was no way he could use his strength to sway the results of the fight. There hadnt been a fight at all.


    And so, Chance did what hed always done in the face ofplete and utter adversity.


    <em>Thank you for this life, even if this is how it ends. I dont regret a single thing Ive done. Ive lived without regret. </em>


    <em>Thank you.</em>


    And, within that sea ofplete and utter helplessness, that spark of nothing shuddered. It bloomed, and the vision hed had of the golden, eight armed man filled his mind. It thrummed with such brilliance that the terror was crushed and ground out like a bug beneath its weight.


    The golden figure looked down at Chance, his features impossible to see through the brilliant light flooding off him. He was pure energy, so far beyond anything or anyone that Chance had ever met.


    In that moment, it became apparent to Chance why hed felt as if his memory of the vision was wed. His mind simply couldnt recreate the sheer scale of power washing off the eight-armed man. It was iprehensible.


    It was infinite.


    It was Karma, pure and unbiased. The binding threads of the universe that could not be denied by anyone or anything. No creature was free of them, no matter how hard it tried to pretend otherwise.


    Essence sparked in Chances Gate. The vision swirling before his eyes sharpened. For an instant, Chance could have sworn that the golden man made eye contact with him. Warmth filled his body.


    A clean chime rang out in Chances mind. The fear shattered like a ne of ss, and then his world was cast in swirling gold. Essence mmed into Chances body, flooding through his veins and filling every part of him.


    Chance blinked. When his eyes opened again, a sphere of glittering light surround his body. Motes of gold swirled within it. The sphere swirled, sinking back in on itself and sealing to his skin.


    Essence gathered at Chances back. A glowing arm materialized, condensing until it was as solid as his own flesh. The abomination froze. Then it lunged, its body expanding to envelop Be.


    Roaring, Chance lunged forward. His golden arm swung, crashing into the monsters chin. A pealing st echoed through the empty towertop. The monsters head snapped back. Chance brought his urumi down on its arm, flooding the de with so much Essence that it burned with light so brightly that he couldnt even look at it.


    The de severed the abominations arm, searing through flesh and instantly cauterizing it. Be copsed to the ground beside the arm, limp. Faces erupted in the puddle, struggling to free themselves from the monsters flesh. Chance reached for the puddle with his golden arm.


    An invisible resistance pressed against him. Chance bared his teeth and channeled Karma, forcing his third eye back open. Strands of Karma mmed to life, shimmering faintly from the caged, suffering souls within the monster.


    They are not yours, Chance said. The monster sent another wave of terror at Chance. A sense of joyous peace filled his mind, rebuking the emotion before it could take root. Chance just smiled.


    Then he brought his glowing hand down. The invisible barrier shattered and he gathered the strands of Karma in his grip. With a snap, the vanished. Dozens of golden figures formed in the air beside Chance, tears of relief streaking down their faces.


    Then they were gone.


    The monster screamed, but not as a threat. It took a lurching step back.


    I dont think so, Chance said. He pressed his palms together and his golden arm rose over his back in the same motion. Be at peace.


    He slipped forward. The monster shed at Chance, but he twisted out of the way, stumbling past the blow and driving his arm of Essence straight into the monsters chest. Its body bulged and hissed.


    It screamed, wing at Chances Essence and trying to rip it away. Chance just smiled, letting the Essence fill him even further, and pressed harder against the monsters defenses. It thrashed and struggled, but nothing it could do could free it from his grip.


    His fingers dug into the rancid flesh, tearing deeper into the prison until he felt them connect with all the Karma it had trapped within it. All the people who had been suffering within this wretched creature.


    Chance felt their desperation and their pain through the Karmic threads. He felt their pleas for help and their longing for release.


    He gave it to them.


    A brilliant, ringing chime split the air. The monster threw its head back and screamed as Chance ripped his hand free of its chest. Hundreds of threads tore apart at his fingers, and the air around them filled with golden forms.


    ck blood bubbled from the enormous hole in the abominations chest. It grasped at the air, trying to pull its victims back, but they were beyond its reach. One by one, the forms bowed to Chance and vanished.


    With every departure, the monster staggered as if it had been struck. It wailed piteously, no longer a terrifying monster but a disgusting wretch, struck low by the very Karma that it had sought to consume.


    And then thest of the glowing men and women was gone. Chance stood tall, his entire body lit golden and his third arm still in half of the prayer position above his head. The monstery on the cracked stone before him, twitching.


    It raised its limp, malnourished head. Chances Essence crashed down on it. The monster sttered across the ground, hissing and fading away into golden light until nothing was left of it.


    Be drew in a ragged breath. Her eyes rolled back into position and she choked on her own saliva, coughing as she pushed herself up from the ground.


    Chance? What happened?


    I think I reached Knight rank. Theres more than one way to cultivate, you know. A goofy grin passed over Chances face. Then the Essence surrounding him vanished with a pop and he crumpled into her arms, unconscious.

 Chapter 95: Pissed

    Chapter 95: Pissed


    Chance drifted back into consciousness. His entire body ached as if hed managed to activate every single one of his muscles and work them until they were Jell-O. A soft, warm pillow propped his head up.


    Strength gradually slipped back into his body and his eyes fluttered open, discovering that his pillow was actually Besp. She peered down at him, her face creased with concern. Chance? Are you awake?


    Yeah. His answer came out gummy and thick. Chance grimaced and worked his lips, trying to bring some more sensation back into them. Is the thing dead?


    Be nodded. You killed it, as far as I can tell. Its body just faded away and the uneasy feeling that this ind was giving off is gone.


    Chance let out a sigh of relief. Good. I dont know what that was, but I never want to see it again. What about you? Are you okay?


    Be paused for a moment, then nodded through a shudder. Yes. You stopped it before it could break through thest of my defenses. I dont want to think about what would have happened if you hadnt. I felt so helpless. Did you see all those faces inside it?


    I think it trapped the souls of people it killed somehow, Chance said. More strength returned to his words as he spoke. It was evil. Really evil. Somehow, it had obscured its Karma. I didnt realize that was possible.


    I guess anything is possible. Its a big universe, Be said, her gaze shifting toward the sky. One of her hands idly ran through Chances hair, but she didnt even seem to notice her own action  and Chance wasnt about to point it out.


    <em>It feels nice, actually. </em>


    They sat there for several minutes, staring up at the night sky in silence. There were dozens of things that Chance wanted to speak about and he knew that Be felt the same, but neither of them seemed to be able to find the proper words to speak  and so, they didnt.


    Be suddenly seemed to be aware of what her hand was doing. She froze, suddenly going stiff. A few moments passed. Then, slowly, she let her fingers weave through his hair again.


    How did you do it? Be asked softly.


    Do what?


    Resist the fear. I couldnt move at all. It was like reliving every mistake Ive ever made, magnified by a thousand. I was so confident that I was going to die. How did you resist that?


    Chance didnt reply for several breaths. I didnt.


    What do you mean?


    I dont think anyone can resist something like that. I mean, Im sure Yamish or someone at his level could, but were nowhere near that. I was terrified too. If Id tried to resist it, I would have failed.


    Then how did you fight against it? Be asked, finally turning away from the sky to look back down at Chance. Her hair fell around her face over him, framing it against the sky.


    I epted it. The fear wasnt something I could handle, so I just acknowledged that it was beyond anything I could shoulder myself  so I released the feeling.


    How can you do that? Feelings arent logic. You cant just decide to ignore them.


    I guess it wasnt just ignoring it, Chance admitted. It just didnt feel right to risk meeting the end of everything weve done on Centurion while terrified. There have been a lot of terrifying things that happened since I got here, but I wouldnt trade any of it for a second. I feel like Ive lived more in thest few months than I ever did on Earth, and I was thankful for that. So, when it all came down to it, I wanted to make sure I met my death feeling the way I had throughout all my time here, not just thest few moments.


    You make it sound so easy. Be let out a quietugh and shook her head. Maybe I should have known that would be your answer, though. Sometimes, I wonder if youre a genius or justpletely insane. Maybe a bit of both.


    Right now, I think Im justfortable, Chance muttered through a yawn.


    Be burst intoughter and ruffled his hair. She pushed the strands away from his eyes and sighed. I think youve earned a rest. Im going to need to catch up with you again now. Just when were on even footing, you rank up to Knight and leave me behind.


    Im sure youll catch up soon enough. Chance blinked heavily, then let his eyes shut again.


    <em>I can afford to take a few minutes to rest. My arms feel like theyre going to fall off if I try to lift them. Just a few minutes</em>


    His breathing slowed and he rxed, slipping into the waiting embrace of sleep.


    ***


    Sunlight beamed down, washing over Chance and rudely pulling his eyes open. He grimaced, closing them again and turning over to hide them and go back to sleep. Something shifted below him.


    His nose wrinkled in annoyance and he repressed an annoyed sigh, letting one eye crack open to see what was bothering him. Be was asleep, sprawled out perpendicr to him. His head was rested on her stomach as it slowly rose and fell with her breath.


    The memories of the monster theyd fought flooded back into Chances mind and he stiffened, the sleep falling away from him instantly. He didnt think hed moved much, but Bes eyes snapped open and she bolted upright, identally tossing Chance off in the process.


    He rolled to his feet as Be spun, searching for the cause of her disturbance. Hernds lowered as she spotted Chance. She nced up at the sky, then winced.


    Oh, crap. I think I drifted off.


    Youre telling me. Ipletely crashed. We got lucky that nobody stumbled on us while we were asleep.


    I guess we can thank you for that, Be said with augh.


    Actually, a voice came from the ground beside them, you can thank me.


    Chance and Be both jumped as a pile of rocks shuddered and rose, forming into Ocies craggy golem form beside them. The golem had rough carvings where its features should have been, but while it couldnt exactly be called featureless, it wasnt much better. That said, Ocie had done a great job of making itself look fairly close to humanoid, aside from having several unnaturally long fingers on each hand.


    Ocie raised one of the hands in question. Its carved eyes narrowed and one finger shortened  while another doubled in length. Ocie let out an irritated sigh and dropped the hand, giving up while it was still ahead.


    I kept watch while the two of you were snoring like babies.


    I dont think babies typically snore, Chance said.


    What?


    You used an idiom, but babies arent known for snoring. Its meant to be sleeping like babies, Chance exined.


    Humans and your hangups. Snoring, sleeping  trust me, I heard both of youst night. Theyre the same thing.


    Be reddened. I snore?


    Like the siren of a firetruck going down a busy highway.


    Chance tilted his head to the side. How do you know what a firetruck or a highway is?


    What is that? Be demanded. Is it loud?


    Its a barely noticeable buzz, Chance told Be. He turned to Ocie and narrowed his eyes. Seriously, how do you know that? Do you have knowledge about Earth? Does that mean you know other things about it?


    A little. When Yamish bound us together, I got to see a few surface level memories. Nothing too deep. Why does that matter? Ocie asked.


    A firetruck doesnt sound like it would be something thats quiet, Be muttered.


    Its so the firefighters dont scare the fire away before they get there, Chance said, hiding a smile and letting out a sigh. And good. I really didnt want to consider the implications of you knowing enough about Earths weapons to somehow integrate them into their cultivation.


    You cant say that and then expect me not to want to know more, Ocie protested. What are you talking about? Are firetrucks weapons?


    They carry things called firefighters, Be mused. They must be.


    Theyre not weapons, Chance said through augh. And no, Ocie. Im sure there are cultivators from Earth that have somehow integrated that sort of thing, but it doesnt fit my path. If I teach anything about it to you, Im going to feel responsible for what you do with it and it could impact my cultivation.


    Ocie harrumphed. Stingy. Youre just trying to keep it for yourself.


    No Im not. Chance red at the golem. And weve got a much more important question to answer, anyway. This isnt relevant.


    We do? Ocie asked.


    Why didnt you help us fight that monster? Chance asked. I thought we were supposed to be a team, but you were about to let Be die. What if I hadnt managed to defeat it in time? A second of difference and she could have been dead!


    Ocies carved features were unreadable, but its shoulders lowered slightly in disappointment. Chance wasnt sure if he could read that as shame, as several fingers all fell off a momentter and Ocie had to grab one of its ears before it could slide down its neck and onto its chest.


    I couldnt help you.


    Whats that mean? Be asked with a frown. Youre Gleam. Did Yamish say you couldnt help Chance or something like that?


    No, Ocie said. It fell silent. Chance and Be both stared at it, waiting for an answer. Finally, it let out a rumble. I didnt want to die.


    You mean that thing was a threat to you as well? Bes eyebrows rose. How strong was it?


    It was from a group of monsters called Essence Eaters, Ocie said. And that particr one ate Karma. Youre right to be surprised. There arent many creatures that can seriously injure me, and there are even fewer that are technically weaker than I and still have the strength to give me pause. Essence Eaters are one of them. They are beyond deadly, especially for a sentient object such as me. It could have drained me of all my power.


    Apt name, Be said with a shudder. It was horrible.


    And we could have died too, Chance pressed. Be nearly did. Were you at more risk from it than we were?


    Ocie shifted its stance. Not more effective, but equally effective. Normal cultivators at or even a little bit above your level pose little threat to me, but this was just as deadly as Yamish. I did not want to die.


    And you think Be did? Chance demanded. I understand your desire to live. Thats why I did everything I could to help you with Yamish. But were supposed to be a team, arent we?


    I am


    Not more important than Be. Nor is she more important than you, Chance interrupted. I would have fought just as hard to protect you if youd been in danger, and Im sure Be would have done the same. And yet youre willing to sit around and do nothing while she dies?


    Ocie quailed under Chances verbal onught. Even Be looked surprised at the scolding tone in his words, but he didnt let up.


    What would you be doing right now if the Essence Eater had gotten to Be before I stopped it? Just shrugging and going oh well, at least it wasnt me? Were supposed to be a team!


    I watched over you after the fight wasplete.


    And after you were safe, Chance pointed out. You just said yourself that you arent scared of other normal cultivators. Teamwork takes sacrifice. If you expect us to put ourselves at risk for you, you need to do the same for us. Im not asking you to get yourself killed, but if you just stand around when someone that needs your help is about to die, I dont know if were going to be able to continue to work together.


    Youd sacrifice all the potential power I could offer you in the future? Ocie asked, its head tilting to the side in befuddlement. Do you evenprehend the power I will wield, and that you will gain through me? There is a reason that Yamish himself sought me.


    I want you to repeat that question to yourself and look me in the eyes while you do it, Chance said, his eyes cold. And then I want you to think about every single interaction weve ever had. Now, if I had the choice between all the power youre offering me right now and the ability to keep my friends alive, which one do you think Im going to choose?


    Ocie was silent for several seconds. But my power would let you save many more in the future.


    Why do I care about the future if I cant bring the people I care about with me to it?


    Ocie went to respond, but Chance raised his hand.


    No. Im sorry, but Im pissed at you. I dont fault you for wanting to survive, but Ive already heard your argument. Maybe you should think about it yourself before you try to exin it any more.


    Ocies body crumbled away. Be sent Chance a concerned nce.


    Do you think you were too harsh on her?


    No, Chance replied. It needed to hear that. I was serious about everything I said. If its just going to be self-centered, Ive got no reason to work together with it. Thats enough of this for now, though. The Essence Eater is dead. That means the ind should be pretty safe to loot, right?


    Be let a smile cross her lips. Thats a really good point. It would be a shame to leave now and not see whats been waiting around for us.

 Chapter 96: Traps

    Chapter 96: Traps


    With the Essence Eater gone, the ind was far more rxing to explore. That said, there was a long stretch between rxation in thefort of a home and wandering the purple vine-ravaged fragments of a fortress.


    Chanc wasnt nearly as on edge as he had been, but the ind was still eerier than he would have preferred. Still, it was leaps and bounds better than before. He and Be scoured through the ind,bing every building and investigating every brick that looked out of ce.


    For the first hour, they found absolutely nothing. That baffled Chance, as he could have sword the ind should have been mostly untouched with the Essence Eater guarding it. But, finally, their search came to fruition.


    Chances foot caught on a protruding stone and he tripped, grabbing for the wall to catch himself. His palm pressed into a dull grey stone, identical to all the others around it. It slid inward with a faint click.


    He froze as a distant rumble shook the ind. Dust sprinkled from the ceiling as a section of the wall beside them slowly ground back, revealing a passageway that led into the heart of the ind below them. Chance exchanged a nce with Be.


    Was that intentional? Be asked.


    If I say yes, would you believe me?


    Not for a second.


    Was worth a shot, Chance said with a grin. He squinted into the darkness. Even with the lighting off the golden mist surrounding him, he could barely see more than ten feet into the passage. It was just stairs leading to pitch ck.


    Well, if theres anything worth taking, Ill bet its down there, Be said.


    Either that or this is a really clever trap. I mean, everyone thinks the secret passage has the loot, right? Wouldnt it be really nasty if you stuck the worst trap youve got behind a secret passage like this one so any would-be thieves waltzed into it thinking theyd found the treasure trove and ended up getting caught off guard?


    Be shook her head and let out a slow whistle. Are you sure you arent evil? I was expecting you to finish that off with a diabolicalugh while you stroked an invisible moustache.


    Chanceughed. Is that a trope here too? I thought that was an Earth thing.


    No clue. Maybe its shared? There are a good number of Earthlings in Centurion, so its possible someone just brought it over. Im not sure where the stereotype started myself, but youre well on your way to bing it. You better shave, Im starting to see the beginnings of that moustacheing in.


    Chance touched his lip, then scrunched his nose. Liar. I couldnt grow facial hair if my life depended on it.


    Keep up the psychopathic ns and youll surprise yourself.


    They fell silent for a few seconds, staring into the darkness. Be cleared her throat.


    Do you actually think its a trap?


    No. Who would do that? Its crazy.


    Be red at him, and Chance had to fight to keep from bursting intoughter again.


    Ill go first, then. Be stepped past Chance, a thin veneer of glittering Essence washing over her skin before she hesitantly lowered one foot to the stairwell, keeping her weight on the other leg and only putting the end of her shoe down.


    Nothing happened. Be leaned more onto the foot, then finished the step. She took another. Chance crept after her, providing light as the two of them headed deeper.


    Their footsteps echoed through the thin hall, bouncing off the walls and reverberating around their heads. It was warmer than it had been above ground, but mostly because there wasnt any wind or open air.


    Unsurprisingly, the air was stuffy and thick. Neither Chance nor Be mustered the desire to speak in the ufortable environment, so they just continued on with only the sound of their movement to keep thempany.


    After what was truly a minute but felt like ten, the stairs came to an end before an open archway that led into a room. At least, Chance suspected it was a room. It was too dark to get a good look at anything, so all he saw was a wider area to walk and ack of stairs. Chance and Be stopped at the entrance and squinted.


    Can you see anything? Be asked.


    No. I could try to direct my Essence in there to light it up, Chance offered. Im not sure if that would set off any traps, though.


    I doubt theyd have a trap just waiting to get set off by Essence, it would be too much of a pain in the ass to deal with day-to-day. If there <em>are </em>traps, then theyre probably on specific things rather than just waiting to pounce.


    Chance nodded. He extended a hand and tendrils of golden Essence swirled away from his fingertips, snaking through the room and rising up like a hazy hydra.


    It was a room. Arge one, with a high ceiling supported by old metal beams. The walls were sparsely dotted with weapons and armor hanging from hooks, and more than a few of themid on the ground where they had fallen  years ago, judging by the thickyer of dust covering everything.


    Its an armory, Be breathed. Its not big enough to outfit an entire fortress, though.


    Not big enough? Chance asked in disbelief.


    Think about how many soldiers would be needed to defend an entire ind. This ce was pretty big. Be pointed at the wall. And look, those are all short swords, but just a bunch of different styles. It looks like a personal collection.


    Chances eyebrows lifted as he caught on to what Be was implying. You think this belonged to <em>one </em>dude?


    Well, maybe a few. Be shrugged one shoulder. I see more than just short swords. Either way, if its not the general armory but rather a specific one given how much the swords vary, its really likely that they kept any relics or important weapons down here.


    Would one trap an important weapon?


    Depends if they thought theyd need to collect it quickly, Be replied with a smirk, but her voice wasnt nearly as confident as her words. I can check them myself. Im the most likely to survive getting hit.


    And Im the least likely to get hit at all. Besides, there probably arent any traps.


    But what if there are?


    Im lucky, Chance said. He cleared his throat. But, in case luck isnt enough, Im also pretty light on my feet. Ill be careful.


    Be pressed her lips together but gave him a small nod. Chance slipped past her and pulled on more of his Essence. As he gathered it, a strange feeling welled in his chest. Chance frowned, halting before he stepped off the stairs to investigate. Thest thing he wanted was to be distracted while walking through what could be a minefield of traps.


    His senses brushed across his Gate first, but there was something else that hed never noticed before. Just to the left of his Gate, right in the center of his chest and behind his sr plexus, was a new mote of energy.


    Chance could feel the invisible lines of energy that ran between his Gate and the new mote. He followed it with his mind. As soon as he was focused on it, the world shifted.


    Hues bloomed, dancing through the air and illuminating the room. Chance flinched as his skin suddenly turned a dull shade of gold  simr to that of his mist, but deeper and far more solid, almost like a shell.


    What the hell?


    Whats wrong? Be asked urgently.


    Are you not seeing this?


    Seeing what?


    Chance waved his hand through the air. All the colors.


    No, Be said, the frown evident in her voice. Are you okay?


    Chance went to answer. Then he closed his mouth and pped himself in the forehead. Im an idiot. Its my aura. I forgot that I reached Knight rank.


    Be let out a snort ofughter. Then she cleared her throat. I kind of did as well. Thats embarrassing. Whats it feel like?


    Chance turned his hands over. He tapped his skin curiously, but it didnt feel any different. Im not sure. Not that different, to be honest. Im just more colorful now.


    He lifted his eyes from his skin, looking out over the room. Almost immediately, his eyes were drawn to several weapons on the walls. They shimmered with faint light, so dim that it barely formed an outline around the weapon  but in the pitch ck, they stuck out like a sore thumb.


    For that matter, they were the <em>only </em>things he could make out in the room. Everything else had gone so dark that it might as well not have been there. Even the floor directly before Chance was just ck nothingness to his eyes. He looked to Be, who was outlined in a faint blue glimmer simr to his.


    Chance released his hold on the new node in his chest. The dull greys of the room returned and the auras faded once more. Chance shook his head.


    Okay. Thats useful. I think I can see the weapons that have Essence attached to them. I cant see anything else, though. Its some sort of pure aura-sight. I can either see things with aura and nothing else or vice versa.


    Thats odd, Be said. I never heard anyone say they had to swap between the two modes. Its probably something you learn to merge.


    Chance nodded. He swapped back to his aura sight, focusing on a nearby short sword that shone purple, and let it drop again while keeping his eyes on the weapon. The de didnt look any different than the other ones on the walls.


    Im gonna grab that one, Chance said, pointing at the sword in question. Its purple.


    What kind of aura is purple?


    How should I know?


    Oh, yeah. Duh, Be said. Okay. Just be careful. Make sure you dont actually touch the weapon with your skin in case its sentient or something. They usually need direct contact.


    Chance rooted through his travel bag to try and find his backup handkerchief. Hed had two, but hed given one of them to a doll weapon that hed cut into pieces about five minutes afterward.


    A momentter, he remembered that the handkerchief in question was currently in Bes pocket, where it housed the ring theyd found earlier on that ind. He grimaced and pulled his shirt off, wrapping it around his hand before taking a cautious step into the room.


    He wasnt sure what hed been expecting, but his foot touched the ground just like it did any other ground. Chance paused for a moment, then edged further into the armory. He made his way over to the sword hed had his eye on and examined it closely.


    Beneath the thinyer of dust was a fairly in looking sword. It hung from its hilt, suspended by two hooks that jutted out from the wall. And, running between them, was a thin strand of wire.


    Chance swallowed, his eyes tracing the wire into the wall where it vanished. He slowly backed up until he was standing on the stairs with Be again.


    What is it? Be asked.


    I was wrong. Im pretty sure its trapped. Theres a tripwire on the sword. Im not sure what, but if we take anything out of here, I get the feeling that it wont be for free.

 Chapter 97: Imagine

    Chapter 97: Imagine


    Chance stood at the edge of the room next to Be, studying the riches before them. It was impossible to know what the traps did or how long theyd been there. There was always the possibility that theyd broken down in the years and werent even a threat anymore.


    It wasnt a risk that Chance wanted to take, even with his luck. He didnt want to find out that the trap was just a giant explosion that brought the ind down on top of them. That would have been a fairly stupid way to trap something, but it would certainly send a message.


    What should we do? Be asked.


    Maybe the things on the floor, Chance suggested after a moment of consideration. It looks like a few of them have auras as well, and theyre probably not trapped. Maybe the wires on them broke already.


    Be squinted into the room and nodded. Thats a good idea. Just be careful when walking around in there. If the weapons are trapped, then its possible there are triggers on the ground as well.


    Chance grimaced. The heavyyer of dust that covered everything made it difficult to see if any of the stones beneath their feet were different from the others. If one of them had small runes on it, there was no way hed see them in time.


    Both of them were well aware that there was no pressing need to take something from the armory, but theyd been searching for so long that Chance was reluctant to leave the ind without something to show for it beyond a questionable ring.


    That didnt mean he wanted to get himself or Be killed for a sword that would probably end up getting sold, though. Chance rubbed his chin. There wasnt any way he could think of to get into the room and take something out without risking triggering a trap.


    Maybe I should do it after all? Be suggested. If a trap does go off, Im the most likely to survive, luck or not.


    Unless its a giant hole and you fall a thousand feet down, Chance replied. Then youll be stuck down there.


    Be paled. I didnt think about that. What about Ocie? She doesnt actually get injured if that golem of hers is damaged, right? Its just controlled by Essence.


    Thats a good point, actually. Chance looked at his bracelet. Im not sure if Ocie is willing to work with us right now, though.


    The bracelet was still. Be scrunched her nose in annoyance. Is she really throwing a tantrum? Isnt she the literal city of Gleam? Seems a little old for that, doesnt she?


    A crack split the ground before Chances feet. He took a quick step back as stone bubbled out from within it, forming into a rocky, humanoid form. The golem straightened out to Chances height. It was Ocies closest rendition yet to a normal human, although all the features were still a little off where they should have been and its limbs were just a little too gangly.


    I am not having a tantrum, Ocie ground out. Something about the way she spoke seemed off to Chance, and it took him a moment to put his finger on what it was. Her mouth moved with every word, but not in the proper shapes.


    Do you want to give us a hand? Chance asked. There are some potentially useful things in here, but I saw what Im pretty sure is a trap on one of the swords, so there might be more in the room. Your body cant be injured when its in this form, can it?


    Not by traps, Ocie replied with a scoff as she turned to head into the armory. I can get them.


    Hold on, Chance said before the golem could step into the room. Ocies head rotated a hundred and eighty degrees to look back at him.


    What?


    We dont know what kind of traps those are. What if its a poison gas or anything that reaches past the armory? Be and I could get caught up in it as well.


    Ocie crossed her arms. I can build a solid stone wall in front of the passage so nothing escapes the armory. Your idea of destroying the entire ind just because theres a thief in the armory is ludicrous. Nobody would do that.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce.


    Okay, youve probably got a point, Chance admitted. Lets do that, then. Do you need me to point out the useful items?


    Ocie scoffed. No. Ill just take everything down from the walls and pile it up, triggering any traps I see in the process. By the time Im done, the area will bepletely safe.


    Thats one way to do it, Be said. You sure youll be okay?


    Ill be fine. Like you said, this isnt my real body. I cant be injured by anything other than direct damage to my Essence or soul, and theres absolutely no possibility of a mere trap being rigged to defend against an artifact such as I. Stand back.


    Ocie stepped forward and rock bubbled up behind her like boiling water. It mbered up the wall, sealing the armory off from Be and Chance within seconds. The lighting off Chances gold mist immediately brightened their immediate area as it had nowhere left to shine.


    Several seconds passed. The ground shuddered. Chance jumped and Be sent him a nervous nce. Another shudder rocked the ground, this time followed by a deep whump from the other side of the rock.


    Wind roared, and something sharp scraped along the stone before them. Several explosions shook the ind. Then there was silence.


    Chance swallowed and knocked on the stone wall. Ocie? Are you okay?


    There was another series of loud crashes, followed by one more explosion that went off with such force that the rocks protecting them cracked. Be shoved Chance back, stepping in front of him, but the wall didnt fall.


    They waited for several seconds. No more explosions came. Be nudged the wall with her foot. It crumbled apart and sank back into the earth, letting them into the armory once more. Chances mouth dropped open.


    It didnt look anything like what it had less than a minute ago. Huge, ckened streaks scorched the floor and giant des had fallen from the ceiling all over the room, piercing deep into he ground.


    Ocie stood in the center, surrounded by a pile of smashed and warped weapons and armor. Her stone body was charred a charcoal ck and one of her arms stuck out of the ceiling, where it had been pierced by a spear.


    About half a dozen items sat on the ground in front of her,pletely undamaged. They were also entirely dust free. Chance cleared his throat.


    Ocie?


    The traps may have been slightly more extensive than I anticipated, Ocie said, reaching up and pulling her arm off the spear. She wedged it back onto her body. I hope you didnt want any of the things that werent artifacts.


    Not anymore, Be said, hiding augh. Is it safe toe in?


    There arent any traps left to be activated. I made sure of that. Im unsure of the artifacts safety, though. I would refrain from touching anything with your bare skin until you can more thoroughly examine their purpose.


    Chance took a step into the room. Ash and cracked stone crunched beneath his feet, but nothing else happened. Chance wasnt sure if that was a surprise or not. He wasnt sure what hed been expecting. At least there wasnt any more dust anywhere. It had all been scorched away.


    He walked up to join Ocie and Be joined him in looking down at the pile of artifacts. There were two chest tes, a shield, several short swords, a morning star, a helmet, and a metal belt.


    Well, Chance said. Now that weve actually got it, I no longer know what to do. I dont think I can fit all these in my shirt.


    You have two shirts, Ocie pointed out.


    Be scrunched her nose. Id rather not take my shirt off if I can avoid it, thank you very much. What about you? Would the artifacts have negative affects if you touched them?


    No, Ocie replied. She cleared her throat. Not to them.


    Whats that mean? Be asked.


    Youd absorb them, wouldnt you? Chance guessed. Kind of like how Yamish was nning to use you.


    Ocies inclined her head. Yes. I, ah, may have absorbed a few already. On ident. None of them did anything useful.


    Chance shook his head. You know what, I dont even want to know what they did. I guess we can call it payment for tanking all the traps for us.


    How many did you absorb? Be looked around the room. There were a lot of weapons here before.


    Dont answer that, Chance said through a chuckle. I dont think we want to know.


    Fair enough, Be admitted. Okay, so Ocie is banned from touching any more artifacts. Should I actually just use my shirt? It wouldnt even let us bring that much more, just one or two things.


    Dont do that yet, Chance said hurriedly. Theres no need for us to take all of this, is there?


    Be blinked. What do you mean?


    Well, there are just two of us. I dont really have any ns of using armor or a normal sword, they dont fit my fighting style and I much prefer my urumi. The helmet isnt great for me either. I want to be able to see what Im doing.


    I mean, I wouldnt need armor or a helmet either, Be said. But thats not the point. We could sell them for a lot of gold or trade them for different artifacts.


    Sure. Thats why we could take some. But we can leave some things for other people to take if they get this far too.


    Be stared at Chance. You just want to leave behind artifacts? After all this?


    Well, not all of them. Wed take the ones we wanted. But do we really need two chest pieces and a bunch of swords?


    What about getting the money to find your parents?


    Chance frowned. I do need a lot of money for that, but if we go around carrying a ton of gear, were probably going to get attacked. Then we might have to drop everything to escape. If we just take a smaller amount, itll be easier to avoid too much attention.


    Be opened her mouth, then closed it. She looked back down to the pile of artifacts and let out a soft huff. Thats an annoyingly good point. You do realize were basically leaving behind what could be thousands of gold though, right?


    Better that than losing all of it.


    I could eat the rest, Ocie offered. It wont go to waste.


    We should leave some for other people thate through, Chance insisted. Imagine how disappointing it would be to get to the ind and go through a bunch of difficulty, only to find out that there wasnt anything here.


    What difficulty? You already killed the Essence Eater.


    You already got your part. We arent in a situation where we need to take everything we see and leave nothing for anyone else. Karma will pay us back.


    Ocie crossed her arms. The one that had been speared snapped and fell off, cracking as it hit the ground. Ocie sighed and picked the halves back up with her free hand, pushing them back into ce.


    Youre just saying that because youre a Karma cultivator. What we do doesnt affect you.


    Im going to follow Chances suggestion, Be said. Hes right. Ill take the shield, then. Nothing else looks like itll be useful to me, as I dont want to wear armor or a helmet. At least a shield could synergize with my Essence.


    Then Ill take the belt, Chance decided, using his shirt to pick up the belt and dropping it into his case of vials. He then wrapped his shirt around the shield and handed the package to Be. There. I dont think youve got any good way to carry it, so well use this for now.


    Thanks, Be said, taking it from him with an embarrassed grin. She stuffed the shield into her travel bag. It didnt fully fit, but it didnt look like it would fall out anytime soon either. I didnt think wed run into anything like this or I would have brought something.


    Live and learn, Chance said with a shrug. I think were done here, then. Lets head back to the tower and get off this ind. Theres still a good amount of time left before the Ancient Realm closes, so maybe we can find someone that has a spare shirt and find some more things before it ends.


    Noints here, Be said. They both looked at Ocie. The golem let out a heavy sigh.


    Fine. I wont take anything else. Good luck. Ocie crumbled to pieces.


    Chance chuckled. He and Be started up the stairs, leaving the rest of the artifacts in a pile on the ground behind them.

 Chapter 98: Pay the tab

    Chapter 98: Pay the tab


    The trip back to the top of the tower was peaceful, if still just a little eerie. Something about giant, thorny vines tearing a city apart just didnt sit right with Chance. Fortunately, they reached the rune circle at the top of the tower without any more encounters.


    Chance and Be stood across from the circle, looking at it warily. There was no indication of where it would send them or if it even still functioned.


    So Be trailed off, then nodded toward the circle. Whats your luck thinking?


    No idea. Its not really thinking much of anything. Its probably fine.


    Probably?


    It looks like a rune circle.


    Be scrunched her nose and crossed her arms. Then she shrugged. Well, I didnt see any other ways down from the ind. The runes dont look damaged at least, so it probably works.


    Well go through together so my luck rubs off on you, Chance said. He extended a hand and Be took it. They looked at the circle for a moment longer, then stepped forward together.


    Their feet hit the center of the circle as one. As soon as Chances heel made contact with the ground, a trill of energy raced up his feet and into his spine. Essence burst forth from the rune circle and enveloped both of them, swallowing them in glowing blue light.


    The world rushed past Chances ears. The only part of his body that he could feel was his hand clutching Bes as he flitted across space, carried by the Essence in a blur toward wherever the rune circle was connected to.


    Then, as abruptly as it had started, the Essence vanished. Chance and Bended on hard stone together and both pinwheeled their arms to avoid falling. A cold breeze brushed against Chances skin and he shivered.


    The rune circle had deposited them on a wide, t stretch of polished marble. Rubble littered it, fallen from scattered walls that rose up around them. There looked to have once been other structures built on the marble, but theyd been destroyed so long ago that Chance couldnt even begin to make out what theyd once been.


    And, more importantly, Chances attention was on something else. A short distance from them, next to arge fallen chunk of masonry, were four men. Two stood on either side, and the tension between the two groups was so palpable that Chance could have cut it with a knife.


    In the same moment that Chance noticed them, one of the men spotted them. Chance nudged Be in the side, but shed noticed them already as well. A faint sheen shimmered over her skin as Be intensified her defenses.


    Whend they get here, Nate? I didnt see em arrive. one of the men asked. Chance dubbed him Red on behalf of a set of matching red clothes that the man wore.


    I wasnt watching, idiot. You were the lookout, Nate replied from beside him. He and Red nced from Chance and Be to the other two men, who did the same.


    Chance cleared his throat and raised a hand in greeting. Hello.


    Seriously? Be asked.


    What? Maybe theyre friendly.


    Do they look friendly?


    You shouldnt judge people on appearances.


    They were literally about to start fighting, Be said. She crossed her arms and looked over to the four men. Were you not?


    Were not, Red said. At the exact same time, Nate nodded and said, Yup.


    The four men red at each other again. Be sent a knowing nce at Chance, who threw his hands up.


    Well, they arent fighting now! Why are you all about to fight?


    The men looked at each other. Nate frowned and scrunched his nose, lost deep in thought. Red was the first of them to respond. He thrust a finger toward the other two men.


    Because theyve got a bunch of good stuff.


    Likely words from the group that looted this area before we got here, one of the others growled. He cracked his neck. I know youve got the artifacts that were here. Hand em over.


    Look whos talking about likely words, Nate spat. Youre the toe eating bats trying to convince us that we got here first, when we both know you got here first. You two looted the area and are pretending we did it so those two kids join to help you fight us. Well, it wont work. These two jokers are actually the ones that have everything.


    <em>Im pretty sure youre all jokers. How did you manage to get this far without dying?</em>


    Maybe we could resolve this peacefully? Chance suggested, taking a careful step toward them. Be sent a warning nce at him, then suppressed a sigh and moved together with Chance.


    Peaceful? What makes you think these idiots will be smart enough to do that? Nate demanded.


    Yeah! What makes you think that? one of the other two added. He and Nate red at each other.


    Well, youre already talking. Thats a good start. You both im that the other group got here first, right?


    Everyone nodded.


    Okay. And you all im that you havent actually gotten any of the loot yourselves.


    Chance received another set of four nods.


    So, logically, if nobody is lying, then neither of you have anything. Has anyone gotten <em>anything </em>thus far? Or have you not been able to loot anything in the Ancient Realm yet?


    Nothing, Nate said with a scowl. The other all nodded in agreement before remembering that they were supposed to hate each other and immediately resuming their ringpetition.


    So if you all empty your pockets, it would be obvious that nobody has anything and theres no reason to fight!


    A second passed. Then two. Nate and Red exchanged a nce. The other two men did the same.


    Im not doing it first. They might attack when my hands are in my pockets, Nate said.


    Red nodded empathetically.


    Well, you might do the same. Youre the evil bastard that came up with that kind of idea, one of the other men said, mirroring Reds posture. We wont go first either.


    For the love of  just do it at the same time, Be snapped, exasperated. Red opened his mouth. Be pierced him with a re sharp enough to pierce steel. Shut up. Do what I say.


    Red snapped his mouth closed.


    On three, Be said. No questions. Just do it. Then youll know and we can all be on our way. Okay?


    Nate raised a finger. It didnt make it halfway above his shoulders before he suddenly decided better and let it lower. He cleared his throat and nodded.


    Good. Three. Two. One.


    All four of the men turned their pockets inside out. There was, unsurprisingly to Chance, absolutely nothing in them. Be tapped her foot impatiently as the two pairs of cultivators looked at each other.


    Happy? Be demanded.


    Nate chewed his lower lip. He looked to Red for support, but the mboyantly dressed man averted his gaze and suddenly found the ground fascinating.


    What if hes got something shoved up his


    Nate snapped his mouth shut halfway through his sentence. He took a step back, then shook his head. Never mind. This isnt worth it. Scary assss. Come on. Lets go. Were wasting our time here.


    The other two men watched Nate and Red start to head off. They sent a nce toward Be, then quickly turned away and departed in the opposite direction. Chance grinned and shoved Be yfully in the shoulder.


    That was incredible! When did you get such a good death re?


    I think were just lucky that they were pushovers, Be muttered under her breath. They must have just been sitting around here because they werent brave enough to go onto any of the inds. I


    Chances neck prickled. The golden mist pooling around his feet flinched back as if struck and he lunged, tackling Be to the ground. An ear grating screech rang out and Chance rolled to his feet,ing up just as all four of the arguing cultivators pitched over, curved des of glittering, sickly green protruding from their backs.


    Spindly ck strands raced across the des, crossing across the ground like frost and gathering at a point. The des ripped themselves free, dropping the dead cultivators on the ground. They liquified and joined the flow, rushing to form into the form of a tall, thin man.


    Sharp, green hair the color of toxic waste stuck up along head in spikes, dark green veins pulsed beneath his sickly, nearly translucent skin. The mans features were long and harsh, and he had a ropey scar along his neck. Segmented shoulder guards made of green, inteced tes covered his upper body, radiating a sickly vomit colored hue. A purple tongue ran along his lips.


    Who do you think you are, interfering with my cultivation? the man asked, his voice a raspy wheeze.


    What the hell is your problem? Whyd you do that? Chance demanded, anger sparking in his chest. They were ipetent!


    They were fighting, the man hissed. The tes covering his body rippled like the carapace of an insect. I was cultivating. You interfered.


    You were cultivating by watching them fight? What kind of rancid Essence is that? Be snarled, rising to her feet. And you cant expect people to stay out of your business if they dont even know its yours, asshole.


    Nobody would bother interfering in something like this.


    I did, Chance growled. Essence swirled around him, responding to his agitation. He wasnt a stranger to death, but four men had just been murdered in front of him for literally no reason beyond the sickly mans apparent irritation.


    A de of ck energy whipped out of the ground directly in front of Chance with no warning. He vaulted backward, letting it pass harmlessly past his face. His urumi materialized in his hand as the de arced after him and Chance mmed its hilt into the dark Essence.


    Golden mist spilled forth as the mans de shattered, spraying ck fragments across the ground. They turned to liquid, sttering against the marble and sinking into it.


    What Essence do you cultivate? the man asked with a rasping wheeze. Your very existence infuriates me.


    What a coincidence, Chance said, pulling more from his Gate. I feel the exact same way about you.


    A wave of green spikes erupted from the ground in front of the man and raced toward them. Be stepped in front of Chance and spread her hands out. Blue Essence swirled between them and hardened into a wall. The spikes mmed into it, shattering against her defenses. Just like the previous attack, the mans Essence slipped into the ground once it had broken.


    Infuriating children, the man hissed. Vizen will rip ground your writhing souls to dust and revel in your strife.


    Vizen should speak about himself in first person, Chance said, fully releasing himself to the Essence within. What those idiots ever do to you?


    The lesser creatures exist only to make the stronger even more great, Vizen replied. They were my toys to y with. But you will suffice as recement. I was already watching this circle for easy pickings from the inds. Perhaps even fools such as you will have something of interest.


    Vizen melted and pitched forward, sttering against the ground and sinking into it. Chance spun in a circle, but he couldnt see anything. He switched to his Aura vision, trying to figure out where Vizen had gone.


    Chances breath caught in his throat. The entirety of the marble tform around them was lit up with a sickly green.


    Two dozen forms bubbled in the ground around Chance and Be, rising up and forming into clones of Vizen. Their armor pulsated like it was all part of one single organism.


    I dont like this guy, Be muttered. What does he cultivate?


    No idea, Chance replied, readying his urumi. But if what we just saw wasnt enough, he was waiting to attack anyone who came out here. Hes scum.


    The weak cannot judge the strong, Vizens bodies chorused.


    Ive seen strong, Chance replied. You arent strong. Youre just a leech that gets stronger from other peoples suffering. Whatever you cultivate is just as disgusting as you are. Come try your luck. Ive got the bill for the tab youve been racking up.

 Chapter 99: Afterlife

    Chapter 99: Afterlife


    Vizensughter rang across the marble. His clones charged Chance and Be, green Essence sharpening into weapons in their hands. Chance whipped his urumi in a wide circle, calling out a warning to Be, who dropped to the ground.


    Golden mist spilled out from him, washing across the ground around them as the segmented des of his weapon carved into Vizens clones. They carved clean through everything they touched, burning through the dark liquid that made them up without resistance.


    For every clone that sttered to the ground, another erupted in its ce. Chance twirled, yanking his urumi back and carving through another few clones in the process. The ground rumbled and a ring of stones erupted from the marble all around them, forming a spiked fence.


    Several of the clones impaled themselves before they could stop, sliding along the rock before slumping down and sttering to the marble beneath. Cracks spread through the marble and rubble shook itself free, forming into Ocies golem form.


    How many of you are there? Vizens voice hissed from all around them. Are you an entire sect?


    Thats pretty ironic,ing from you, Be replied, her jaw tight. She lowered her voice and nced at Chance. What should we do? There are a lot of them, and I dont think attacking these is going to do much to hurt Vizen.


    Im not sure, Chance admitted, struggling to keep a chuckle down. His Essence wasnt a huge fan of nning fights out. It urged him to leap over the barricade of jagged stones and start twirling the urumi, consequences be damned. That would have been much more fun.


    Chance shook his head and narrowed his eyes. Ocie?


    I can locate his true form, Ocie said. It may take time. My senses are limited here.


    Vizen cackled. A pile of sentient rocks against a cultivator. Lets see you try, artifact. Ill consume you once Ive dealt with the children.


    The clones lurched forward, climbing over each other in a wave of bodies and cresting the spikes that Ocie had erected.


    Do it! Chance yelled. He jumped, boosting off the base of one of the rocks andunching himself into the air. It was tempting to call on the powers Knight rank had granted him, but Chance resisted the urge. If he could surprise Vizen with them once the mans real body was forced out, theyd be more effective.


    Instead, Chance opened his third eye. Strands of Karma ran in every direction, rising up from the marble like a sea of seaweed. Chance couldnt tell where they actually originated from. It looked like Vizen was literally everywhere around them.


    A clone lurched toward Chance, shing at him with an arm that ended in a scythe. He flicked his urumi, binding around the clones arm and severing it. With another pirouette, Chance split the body in two and killed three more of them before they could get close.


    One of Vizens bodies sailed through the air and crashed into a pile of several others, turning them all into a stter of ck liquid. Chance nced over his shoulder as Be climbed over the edge of the spiked rocks and grabbed another one of the clones, ignoring its attempts to cut through her Essence-enforced skin, and hurled it as well.


    This is pretty fun! Kind of like bowling! Be called to Chance.


    Chanceughed. He ducked under a blow and his essence caught another one of the clones. It tripped, falling into the path of another ones sword and impaling itself. Chance dispatched both of them with a swift strike.


    You have bowling here? Chance asked, swaying to dodge another two strikes. I thought that was an Earth thing.


    He reached out, snagging one of the strands of Karma that emerged from the ground. Chance only got a moment to see within it, where the glowing form of another cultivators face stared back at him, before energy rushed into his body.


    Power filled Chances muscles and he sped up noticeably, easily avoiding a group of clones that all dove for him in an attempt to pin him down. Chancesughter trailed behind him as he danced through the watery forms of Vizen, carving through them like a golden tornado.


    Behind him, a massive group of the clones rose up around Be, all wing at her to absolutely no effect. She waded through their ranks, every swing of her fists sttering heads and sending their bodies sshing back to the ground.


    Chance swirled to a stop as he realized that no more clones had gathered around him. The ground rippled, a pool of ck forming around him. He vaulted back,unching off his hands andnding safely a dozen feet away as a huge form burst out of the marble.


    Chitinous green spikes jutted out all over what looked to be a monstrous cockroach. Its face was a twisted, warped version of Vizens. Green liquid dripped from his eyes and mouth, hissing as it sttered against the marble.


    Good to see youre showing us what you really look like, Chance said cheerfully.


    Vizen hissed in fury. The spikes on his back rippled and ripped upward,unching into the air before raining down toward Chance. Chance drew deeply on his Essence and twirled his urumi above his head, smashing several of the spikes.


    Then he closed his eyes and drew a deep breath before letting himself move instinctively, not even trying to dodge. He jumped forward and twisted to the side, shifting his weight as easily as water flowed through a river.


    All around him, what sounded like ss shattered against marble. When the noises stopped, Chance opened his eyes again. A sea of smashed green Essence fragments littered the ground around him.


    Vizen screamed in fury and lunged forward. His face split apart, revealing several rows of glistening, green teeth. Despite his enormous, buglike body, the monster moved with incredible speed.


    Chance barely managed to twist out of the way of Vizens jaws as the mmed shut, catching only air. His urumi scored across the monsters side. ck liquid poured out of it in a deluge.


    Wheres your real body? Chance asked, drawing his urumi back with a flick of his wrist. Or is hiding all you can do?


    All I need to do is distract you, Vizen said with a wheezingugh. Your friend is far weaker than you are. Your Essence is clearly unique, but hers is nothing special. She will fall while you crow victoriously to me, and her death will lie at your feet. You are an arrogant child.


    Chanceughed in his face. Vizens expression flickered, disbelief crossing his misshapen features.


    Scum like you couldnt ever even get close to hurting Be, Chance said, wiping the mirth from his eyes and dodging out of the way as Vizen tried to spear him with a sharp leg. Youre barely worth the energy it would take her to lift her boot and squash you. I bet you havent even managed to scratch her yet.


    Vizen hissed in fury and leapt at Chance. Chance rolled forward, whipping his urumi vertically. The bug monster tried to adjust its trajectory, but it was toote. ck liquid sprayed across the ground as he was severed in two.


    The two halves of the monster disintegrated, turning into ck rain and sttering down on the marble. Chance turned toward the horde of enemies trying to bury Be, stepping toward it, but she burst free of them before he could even raise his urumi again.


    She hit the ground in a roll, sprinting over to join Chance with a grim smile on her lips. Doing okay?


    Hes all talk, Chance replied.


    You too? I think his Essence has something to do with turning people against each other, Be said. I heard him talking to you, and he was trying to tell me that I would be much stronger without you holding me back.


    Both of themughed. Dark blood pooled all around them, more bodies rising up from it.


    Infuriating children, Vizen hissed from one of them. I


    Be punched him in the face, blowing the clones head clean off.


    He really does only have one trick, Be said. A scythe of green Essence erupted from the ground behind her. It shattered against her back, failing to prate once more. She smirked. Nice try. Youre honestly pathetic.


    How is this possible? You are <em>children</em>, Vizen hissed. Several of his clones backed up. You cannot resist my power.


    Maybe you should have spent more time trying to better yourself instead of hunting those weaker than you, Chance suggested, carving the clones apart with a sweeping blow from his urumi.


    As one, all of the clones screamed. Chance and Be both spun, expecting another attack, but nothing came.


    Instead, the ground rumbled. Ocie rose up from the earth, her arm sharpened into a long spike. Vizen was speared on the end of it, his eyes wide in disbelief. The green armor on his body flickered faintly, and he was far skinnier and more withered than all the clones hed been forming.


    I dont


    Ocies other arm shed. Vizens head pitched forward and fell to the ground, severed. With a flick, Ocie tossed the corpse down beside its head. All around them, the clones sttered to the ground and formed into pools of ck. They shimmered, slowly fading away until nothing was left.


    I found him, Ocie said. He was so focused on the two of you that he forgot to conceal his Essence.


    Chance let his urumi lower and released his hold on his Essence, pulling it back into himself. That was easier than I expected, actually.


    He was preying on the weak, Be said in disgust. Nobody that cultivates like that will ever be truly powerful. He probably hasnt been properly challenged in years. What a waste of talent. Imagine how powerful the ability to form bodies like that would have been on someone who wasnt a waste of oxygen.


    Chance nodded in agreement. His urumi slithered back around his wrist, turning into a bracelet. He got what wasing to him. I do wonder what he cultivated, though.


    Strife, Ocie said. I felt it when I ran him through. I suspect he was stronger than the two of you believe. His powers were just borderline worthless against people that actually trust each other. An unfortunate matchup.


    Chance and Be nced at each other.


    Perhaps it was Karma, Chance suggested, a smile tugging at the edges of his lips.


    Did he have anything on him? Be asked, approaching Vizens true body.


    Ocie shook her rocky head, the stones grinding as they scraped against each other. Nothing of worth. He was no better off than those that he looked down on.


    Figures, Chance said with a sad shake of his head. We should definitely get out of here before more cultivators get teleported to the same spot. Do you want to choose the direction this time, Be?


    Be raised an eyebrow. Seriously? Why would I do that when we have a literal wayfinder built in to your Essence?


    Last time, it led us to an Essence Eater.


    Which you reached Knight Rank from defeating, Be pointed out. Maybe next time itll be my turn.


    She has a point. When ites to games of luck, there is nobody better to pick than a Karma cultivator, Ocie said. But I will take my leave.


    She crumbled back to marble, leaving a small pile of rubble where shed once stood. Be nudged Chance.


    Go on.


    That way, I guess, Chance said, picking a direction at random after calling on his Essence. Theres a ruin over there that looks interesting. Maybe itll have some more loot for us.


    Works for me.


    Chance sent onest nce back at the men that Vizen had killed. He inclined his head respectfully, mentally wishing them a safe journey into whatever came next.


    Then the two of them set back off, leaving Vizen behind, apanied by only the men hed just ughtered to the afterlife.

 Chapter 100: Shiny thing

    Chapter 100: Shiny thing


    For the next week, Chance and Be traveled through the Ancient Vault. They investigated several ruins and checked out four more floating inds. Much of the area had already been cleared out before the two of them had gotten there, but they still stumbled upon a fair amount of gold and pills.


    Even though they did end up finding a few more pieces of equipment that had traces of Essence on it, they elected not to take it. Carrying the extra loot around would have painted an extra target on their backs and, more than anything else, that seemed to be what got cultivators killed.


    Over their week, the two watched easily twenty or thirty fights go down between other cultivators. Many of them poured out so much Essence during the battles that Chance estimated they were Rank Fours at the absolute lowest.


    That didnt stop them from killing each other like dogs. Every single fight filled Chance with distaste. It wasnt anything like the battle in the arena hed had with Wren, or his duel with Seleth.


    It wasnt like he had notions that battle was anything but a struggle for victory, but the manner in which he saw the other cultivators rip one another apart in exchange for an artifact with so little power that it was probably little better that the urumi wrapped around his wrist made him feel ill.


    Men that had been allied turned on each other midway through the fight, grabbing their former allies gear and fleeing to safety, only to be chased down by a group of other cultivators and killed as well.


    People would go from joking andughing to fighting to the death over what Chance wouldnt have paid more than a few hundred gold for in Gleam. If there was some sort of grand Karmic scale weighing the entire event, Chance got the feeling that one end of it would be plummeting through the floor.


    He and Be mostly kept to themselves, and theirck of any interesting belongings made them far less interesting. A few cultivators paid them some attention when they grew close enough, but luckily none cared enough to bother them.


    Its kind of depressing, Chance said as they made their way up a winding path toward a set of a dozen floating inds, all interconnected by swinging rope bridges. I thought people were better than this.


    Im just d we didnt take all that stuff from the first ind, Be said, shaking her head. We would have been fighting nonstop if we wanted to keep it, and thats assuming we didnt just killed by some asshole flying by and sting us. Dont feel too bad about this, though. Everyone here only showed up because they wanted to get their hands on more power.


    Thats pretty much what all cultivators do.


    Fair, Be admitted. But theres more than one way to get strong. Entering what is essentially a huge death battle with a few limited exit points pretty much summons every monster in the immediate area like a glowing beacon. This isnt how the whole world is.


    Chanceughed and gave Be a small smile. Thanks.


    For what?


    Trying to make me feel better. You dont have to, though. We cant control other people. I would have liked to be able to do more for the ones that didnt deserve the trouble, but youre right  everyone chose toe here.


    Be grimaced and nced to the side. Was it really that obvious?


    The thought is appreciated anyway. It isnt something you can control. We should just


    A loud explosion rocked the mountainside, ripping through the rtive silence and buffeting Chances hair back as a shockwave followed after it. One of the inds floating in the group above them shuddered violently and pitched, bobbing in the air and threatening to fall.


    Chance and Be stared up at the ind as it righted itself. A huge plume of smoke rose up from it. An instantter, a wave of Essence crashed into both of them. Chance stiffened as the power washed over his skin.


    What was that? Chance asked, squinting up at the ind. It wasnt too far away from them, but he couldnt see anyone on or near it. The wave of Essence had passed just as quickly as it hade, leaving just the thick cloud of smoke gathering above the ind.


    Be didnt respond. Her eyes were wide as she stared up at the ind, longing burning in them.


    Be?


    She shook her head and swallowed. That Essence is really close to mine. Like <em>really</em> close. Not exactly the same, but its enough that I could probably cultivate next to it and take huge steps to advance.


    Chance peered up at the ind, then nced down the mountain. There werent any signs of fights beyond the explosion, which meant there probably werent too many other people in the area. Yet.


    We can try to check it out, Chance said.


    Be started to nod, then paused. She pressed her lips together. We dont have to. That much Essence is probably going to draw a lot of people. It could be dangerous.


    You really want that Essence though.


    Well, yes. But not enough to get you killed as well.


    We might not havee here for the same reason as everyone else, but now that weve arrived, we might as well have, Chance said, starting to walk again at a faster pace. We might as well give it a shot. If its dangerous, well leave.


    Be hurried to catch up with him. She didnt offer any more protest. It couldnt have been clearer how badly she wanted to get her hands on whatever had caused the outpouring of Essence.


    They quickly reached the bridge leading up to the nearest of the inds. It still swung slightly from the explosion, and the wood that made it up didnt look particrly sturdy. Chance called on his Essence and grabbed the rope rails, stepping onto the nks gently.


    Wind made them sway beneath his feet as he stepped forward. Chance swayed with them, easily keeping his weight distributed to avoid suddenly putting pressure on anything. The luck he drew on with every step didnt hurt either.


    Be followed behind him, holding onto the ropes with a death grip and taking every step with meticulous precision  she put her feet exactly where Chance had put his, not willing to risk any other parts of the bridge. Chance sent as much of his luck back to Be as he could. It would have been ironic to get this far only to get killed falling from a shoddy rope bridge.


    Even though the climb up the bridge was only a minute or two at most, it felt like half an hour. By the time that they set foot on the floating ind, Bes forehead was drenched with sweat.


    The ind was essentially a single grassy t, connected by three bridges to other nearby inds. One of them had a small ruin of a house on it, while the other two both had shattered guardhouses on them, well into the stages of decay. Beyond them, the ind that had caught Bes attention floated in the center of the group. A small castle sat upon it, a good half of it demolished and smoking. Fire had started to lick along it, consuming the building at a steady rate. Chance wasnt sure how stone was burning, but he wasnt about to stop and question that over everything else hed seen since arriving on Centurion.


    I felt your Essence on the bridge, Be said. Thanks.


    No problem, Chance replied, his eyes on the castle. I dont hear any more fighting. If there was ever fighting in the first ce, that is. That means its either safe or


    Someone won, Be finished with a nod. Lets be careful. Ill go first. If its anyone that looks too dangerous, theres no point fighting them if we can avoid it. It isnt worth it.


    Chance nodded and Be took the lead. They stepped onto the next rope bridge and golden mist swirled around both of them as Chance drew on it, making sure they wouldnt find the one rotten nk waiting for someone unlucky enough to stumble upon it on their way over.


    All the inds on the way over to the main one were deserted. No signs of anyone having investigated the area were present, nor were there any items or patches of Essence to catch Chances attention.


    They were empty for all intents and purposes  aside from the castle. They had no difficulties in crossing the remainder of the bridges, and the two soon stood at the front of the burning building.


    The two double doors stood askew, one of them sted off its hinges and the other hanging at an angle. A thin stream of smoke filtered out from the top of the castle and joined the plume rising into the air.


    Thats reassuring, Be muttered as they approached the entrance. She peered inside and Chance poked his head over her shoulder.


    It looked like a castle. There wasnt much else to say. There was an old red rug that had probably once been beautiful, but it was now bleached white by the sun and crushed down by thousands of feet.


    The walls were stained as if there had once been tapestries that had protected them from the sun, but someone had stolen them some time ago and left slightly discolored patches in their wake.


    At the back of the entrance hall of the castle was the source of the smoke, where arge hole had been sted through the floor. Deep within it, something glittered with both light and Essence.


    Even though Chance could tell the Essence had absolutely nothing to do with anything he cultivated, the pulling from within the hole was strong. If Be hadnt been there, he would have been tempted to try and take whatever it was for himself.


    The two of them crept toward the hole, their Essence at the ready. Even if there wasnt someone already there, it wouldnt be long before someone was.


    What is that? Chance wondered softly.


    I dont know, Be whispered back. But I want it. Really badly. Do you think its using some form of mental influence?


    They drew up to the edge of the hole and Chance squinted into the smoke, trying to make something out within it. Im not really an expert on this stuff, but I dont think things that use mental influence typically wants you to think about said mental influence.


    What if thats part of its strategy?


    Do you want the shiny thing or not?


    I want it, Be grumbled. I was just being careful.


    Then lets go, Chance replied, calling on his Essence and feeling the rush of it as it flowed through his system. A grin slipped across his face and he spotted a dry spot on the ground within the hole that would make for a safending. Its at the bottom of this pit somewhere, and the faster we get to it the better.


    Then he jumped.

 Chapter 101: Last chance

    Chapter 101: Last chance


    Chances urumi slithered into his palm and he jabbed it into the wall as he fell, sending Essence into the weapons de. It carved through the stone easily, but slowed him enough that, by the time he hit the ground, hended a grunt instead of sttering.


    Be whistled down, crashing to the floor and sending up a cloud of dust. She straightened up, her body glittering with Essence, and brushed her shoulder off as she turned to look around.


    Theydnded in a small circr room. At its center was arge, pulsating, blue crystal. Veins of deep purple energy ran throughout it, centered at a small circle near its core. Essence poured off the crystal with such intensity that Chance could feel it prickle against his skin.


    What is this? Chance asked, keeping a respectful distance from the crystal. Even the smoke rising up from the fires around them curled around the rooms edges, avoiding getting too close to the structure.


    I have no idea, Be replied, swallowing heavily. Its a lot.


    I dont think were going to be able to walk anywhere if you try to take this, Chance said. Start cultivating, I guess. Ill keep a lookout.


    Be didnt waste time trying to argue. She gave him a quick nod and sat down, inching a little closer to the crystal. The sheen covering her skin faded as she released her Essence and slipped into meditation.


    Chance watched her for a few moments, then pulled his eyes away. He wasnt going to be much of a lookout if he spent the entire time looking at Be instead of their surroundings.


    Because the smoke seemed to stay away from the strange crystal, Chance wasnt too worried about breathing it in. Unfortunately, that very same pattern alsopletely isted the area from the rest of the building, making it easy on someone if they were nning on sneaking up.


    Chance sent his Essence into his forehead, opening his third eye and scanning the surroundings for any traces of Karmic threads. For the moment, he couldnt see any. Then again, the Essence Eater had shown that the threads were far from infallible.


    Gathering Essence around him, Chance flicked his urumi. It shed through the smoke, blowing it away for a moment and clearing a path into a wide room around them for a moment. An instantter, the smoke shifted to cover the area again.


    Chance pursed his lips. The smoke <em>did </em>work in two directions. He sent a nce back at Be.


    Ocie, Chance whispered. Can you stay here? I want to walk around and make sure we dont have anypany.


    A pebble by Chances foot shifted. Several more rolled over, forming into a tiny golem the size of his palm. It gave him a small salute, then waddled over to stand a short distance behind Be. Chance narrowed his eyes at it.


    And no taking her Essence. Youve already gotten a lot.


    The golems eyes were just t gouges in the stone, but Chance could have sworn it red at him. He shook his head, hiding a smile, and walked over to a spot where the fire was weakest.


    Chance held a hand out carefully. The heat was ufortable, but it wasnt anything like what me <em>should </em>have felt like. It was closer to a slightly overwarm shower. He reached out, touching the me for an instant.


    It didnt burn.


    <em>Is the difference from gaining better control of my aura really this significant? Wow. This must be close to what Be feels like when shes got her Essence active. </em>


    Chance held his breath and hopped forward, passing through the smoke andnding lightly on the other side. Hed either moved quickly enough to keep his clothes from catching fire or his aura stretched out farther than his skin.


    The room hed stepped into was in and empty. The only light came from the fire and the crystal behind it, and it was littered with a few broken weapons and cloth. There wasnt of anything that really drew his attention and  more importantly  Chance didnt see anyone else in the area.


    <em>I really want to see what else I can do with Aura. Maybe Be will hit Knight rank from this and we can spar. That would be nice. </em>


    Chance walked in a circle around the pir of smoke, trying to figure out what had brought the crystal out. It didnt seem to have even the slightest rtion to anything else in the house.


    <em>It must have fallen from the sky and gone through the roof, then. A meteor? Ive never seen one that looks like this. Then again, I havent seen any kind of meteor. Whos to say they arent like this here?</em>


    Chance finished his trip around the basement floor of the mansion, finding a grand total of nothing. It waspletely and utterly boring, which came as a slight disappointment. He hadnt wanted to run into another person, but it would have been exciting to see <em>something.</em>


    <em>No. Bad Chance. Exciting is bad when Be is cultivating. I might be letting the happy-go-lucky aspect of my Essence get a little bit too much of a root in me. Its good to keep a bnce, especially when someones relying on me to make sure they arent disturbed. </em>


    He walked a few more circles around the fire. It didnt seem to be going out anytime soon, even though there wasnt really much for it to be burning. Eventually, Chance sat down and leaned his chin on his palm, asionally scanning to see if he picked up any Karmic threads.


    And then he waited. There wasnt much else to do.


    Seconds ticked by, turning to minutes. Those minutes stretched on, and Chance resisted the urge to poke his head in and check on Be. It took a while to cultivate. He wouldnt have been surprised if they had to stick around for a few days for her to get the most out of the experience.


    As Chance sat, indulging in thought, a flicker of gold caught his eye. A frown creased his lips. A strand of Karma.


    It wasnt like he hadnt expected it. There had been so much energy let off by the st the crystal had made that it was just a matter of time until someone else showed up. Chance rose to his feet and held his urumi loosely by his side.


    The strands of Karma indicated that the other person was on the other side of the basement floor. There must have been another way into the castle that theyd taken, hoping that it would let them avoid anyone else in the area.


    A dull crack split the crackle of the mes. Small pieces of debris crumbled down from a wall as a thin vine twirled its way into the room. More rocks cracked and fell away, and a thin woman stepped inside the room, looking over her shoulder.


    See? she asked. I told you it would be safe this way. Nobody will be expecting us to


    She trailed off,ing to a stop as she spotted Chance.


    Whats going on? another woman asked from behind her. A pair of bright yellow eyes poked out of the darkness behind the first woman, revealing a woman covered with a thinyer of fur. Chance caught a sh of sharp teeth in the light washing off his Essence.


    Hello, Chance said, giving them what he hoped was aforting smile. Sorry. Got here first.


    The vine slithered around the first womans arm, forming into a bracer that covered her forearm. She stepped to the side, letting the other woman into the room. Neither of them looked too much older than he was, which immediately set off rm bells in Chances head.


    <em>People that look young are either prodigies, raised by some powerful family, or weak. Which ones are these two?</em>


    Who are you? the vine-wielding woman asked. She nced around the room. Are you with a group?


    Im Chance, and that second question doesnt sound like the sort of thing you ask someone in a friendly manner, Chance said, keeping his tone even. Id prefer not to fight. My friend is currently cultivating. Theres no way shell be able to use all the power here. We can probably share.


    The women nced at each other.


    You could at least introduce yourselves, Chance continued. I find people asionally try to kill each other a bit less when we get to start talking.


    My name is Nimea, but Im not so sure Im so keen on sharing, the first woman said. How about you take your friend and get out of here? Id be willing to let you leave alive.


    Nimea, we dont have to do that, the furred woman said. She turned to Chance. Im Quinn. Earth cultivator. My sister is a little aggressive, but she doesnt want to fight if we dont have to.


    Then it sounds like were in agreement. I wont be leaving, though, Chance said.


    You think you can take two of us? Nimea asked, rolling her neck. Youre better off leaving with your life than your pride.


    Im not a huge fan of bulling other people away from things that theyve gotten to first, Chance said. We got here first. If you have an issue with that, then you may have to find out just how willing I am to fight to protect it.


    Nimea, Quinn muttered, nudging her with her foot. Hes got a pretty strong Aura.


    <em>Shes a Knight, then. Thats not great, since it looks like Nimea is the leader here. Shes probably at least a Knight as well. </em>


    There are two of us, Nimea replied with a snort. Look at him. Nobody with any strength tries to bargain. Dont be a dead weight. Youve got a job to do. Go do it.


    Quinns jaw tightened and regret flickered in her eyes. Chances brow furrowed.


    Hold on. Youre sending her to fight for you, even youre the one that wants to do this?


    Shut up, Nimea sneered. Quinn. Go. That was amand.


    The hair on Quinns shoulders straightened in anger, but she stalked forward. The ground rippled around her feet, rising up before her as she walked and forming into the hilt of a de. Nimea grabbed it, pulling the stone broadsword free of its confines.


    Are you sure you want to do this? Chance asked. Last offer youre going to get. I dont want to hurt anyone I dont need to.


    Quinn charged. Behind her, a smirk yed across Nimeas lips. Quinns stone sword shattered the ground where Chance had been standing, but hed swayed to the side an instant before it could touch him.


    He wound his leg behind Quinns and hooked her ankle. She yelped, then threw herself into a roll to avoid falling. Springing up, she thrust therge de for Chances chest. He arced backward, dropping to the ground before vaulting back to his feet.


    Essence swirled around him, tendrils of gold rushing along the floor and reaching for Quinn. They brushed against her, but they couldnt find purchase.


    <em>Her Aura is too strong for that. Unfortunate. Oh well. Shes not my target. </em>


    Quinn lunged for Chance. He skipped backward. Then his footnded on a loose stone and he slipped back, narrowly avoiding a vine as it whipped through the air and mmed into the ground.


    Chance rolled to the side, then flicked his urumi. The de extended and Nimeas eyes widened in surprise. She yanked her vine weapon back, but Chance didnt wait for it to retract.


    He ran toward Nimea. The ground rippled and Chance leapt into the air a moment before it split apart beneath him. The attack bought Nimea enough time to retract her vine and take aim once more, her smile growing predatory.


    Chance reached for the energy in the center of his chest. Then he unleashed it as Nimeas vine pierced toward him once more.


    Golden light erupted behind Chance. A glowing hand erupted from his back, reaching around and grabbing the vine before it could reach him. Essence red and the vine scorched, ckening in his grip.


    Hended on the ground and yanked the vine whip out of Nimeas hand, throwing it into the crevice.


    I lied thest time, Chance said, keeping his back to the wall so he could watch both of them. <em>This </em>is yourst offer to turn around.

 Chapter 102: Marvelous

    Chapter 102: Marvelous


    Quinn looked back at Nimea, taking a small step away from the golden mist that was slowly spreading across the ground.


    Nimea, cant we


    I gave you an order! Nimea snarled. Are you arguing with me?


    Energy sparked at Nimeas wrist and Quinn hissed in pain. She staggered forward, then hunched her shoulders and shuddered. Chances jaw clenched.


    Did you just attack your own friend? Chance asked, his hand tightening around the hilt of his urumi.


    No more talking. Quinn, Im not going to ask again. Well be visiting the Sect Elder after this to have you tuned up, you ungrateful


    Chances urumi screamed through the air. Nimea dropped to the ground and it mmed into the rock wall behind her, biting deep into the stone. It sent rubble raining down on top of her as Chance ripped it free and it snaked back into his hand.


    Quinn groaned as another wave of energy rocked her body. She dropped to all fours and stone gathered at her feet. Sheunched herself forward, using it like a springboard. All around her, the rock erupted like an ocean wave.


    Chance vaulted backward, spinning out of the way as spikes of rock jabbed out from the churning mass surrounding Quinn. He bobbed and swayed between them, always just a step ahead of her no matter how hard she tried.


    He wasnt even paying attention to Quinn. Chances full attention was on Nimea, who had gone back to watching the fight at the back of the room with a smug expression, her arms crossed.


    A flicker of anger sparked in Chances chest, but his Essence swallowed it before it could bloom. Anger would only make his technique worse. He did not need to be angry. There was no need for it.


    All he needed was Karma.


    The ground beneath Chance ripped itself open. He rolled to the side, springing to his feet and jumping over a jagged de of stone that whistled beneath him, barely missing. Chance didnt have any desire to fight Quinn considering it didnt look like she had much choice in the matter, but she wasnt an ipetent fighter.


    It was all Chance could do to stay ahead of her attacks. If he didnt start fighting back, he wasnt going to get an opportunity to go after Nimea. All of that flickered through his head in an instant, then faded away.


    A smallugh slipped from between his lips as more Essence poured out of his Gate, and a wide smile stretched over his face. He brought his urumi whistling toward Quinn. The rock surged, forming a wall before her.


    As soon as she couldnt see Chance, heunched himself forward. He vaulted over the stone barrier, sailing above Quinns head, andnded lightly on the floor behind her. Chance broke in to a dead sprint toward Nimea.


    Nimea called out for help, jumping back and narrowly avoiding Chances glowing third fist. It smashed into the stone, sending arge cloud of dust up into the air around them. Nimea swung her vine weapon at Chance, but he leaned back and let it pass harmlessly by his nose.


    Quinn flew through the air and a pir of rock rose from the ground before her. She grabbed onto it, spinning andunching herself straight at Chance. He spun, striking her in the back with the hilt of his urumi as she passed by.


    Grunting in pain, Quinn hit the ground in a roll andunched back to her feet.


    Quinn, Nimea yelled. No more ying around! Do it. Now!


    Fear swallowed Quinns features. She immediately jumped away from Chance,nding beside Nimea. Red energy swirled around Nimeas fingers, crackling and sparking like electricity. She reached for Quinns back.


    Chances urumi carved through the air. Nimeas eyes widened and she grabbed Quinn, shoving her before herself like a human shield. The action was so outrageous that Chance nearly lost control of the urumi in surprise.


    Rock surged to try and block the blow, but the de scraped past them and carved along Quinns shoulder. She cried out in pain. A momentter, blood bloomed from the wound and matted her fur. It wasnt fatal, but it was deep.


    Stop moving! Nimea screamed. She lunged to grab Quinn, the energy still arcing across her hand. Chance whipped his urumi forward again, this time sending it slithering just barely above the floor.


    Nimea spotted iting and lunged away. Quinn formed a stone shield before herself, but Chance wasnt aiming for her. The urumi split through a strand of Karma hanging from Nimea.


    He hadnt gotten a moment to see who it belonged to, but Chance didnt care. Energy flooded into his body and he felt his muscles tighten with Essence. As Nimea reached out for Quinn again, Chance blurred forward.


    His foot mmed against the stone once before he shot toward Nimea, closing the distant in an instant. Her eyes widened as Chances fist crashed into her jaw, lifting her into the air. The glowing hand of Karmic energy grabbed Nimea as she flew, rearing back andunching her into the wall with enough force to crack the stone.


    Nimea fell to the ground with a pained, gasping choke. She spat blood onto the ground and pushed herself upright, trying to stand. Chance walked toward her, golden essence storming violently around him. His urumi scraped across the stone as it retracted, snapping back into ce one ominous <em>snick </em>at a time.


    Trembling, Nimea raised her eyes to meet his.


    All that was within them was terror.


    ***


    Yamish smiled.


    With every step that Chance took, he could feel the Karma around him trembling in anticipation. Two paths stretched out before Yamishs eyes, each one covered with a million branching threads.


    Infinite actions. Some of them were just the barest flickers of a thought, while others were aplete and utter change in life. Each one shot off in its own little way, carrying with it the potential for its own future.


    With deliberate movements, Yamish let his hand run along the path connected to Nimea. It trembled at his touch. The universe craved its Karmic dues. Many of the strands had rotted and turned ck.


    As Yamishs finger trailed along them, they withered and fell away. It wasnt her that Yamish was interested in, though. He watched Chance with trepidation.


    Which one will it be, my apprentice? Yamish mused. Not all in this universe are meant to live. Some are a stain on this world. A cancer that can only be removed by de. It is our duty. We are the executioners. There is no greater authority, no matter what you may believe Karma to be. Good must bnce with evil. In killing, there is life.


    Chance stopped before Nimea. He raised his sword.


    Yamishs smile expanded, stretching across his face until it went from one ear to the other, splitting it in a perfect, seamless half.


    This is the truth of Karma. It is a tool. We are the wielder, chosen by the universe to rule. We decide who lives and dies, so long as bnce is maintained, Yamish breathed, leaning forward in anticipation. Take the step.


    Chance brought the urumi down. Nimea screamed, raising her hand fruitlessly. The de mmed into the wall above Nimeas head, raining stone down on her. She flinched, staring up at Chance with terrified eyes.


    Yamishs smile vanished as Chance grabbed Nimea by her cor and lifted her into the air.


    Whats your problem? Chance demanded. How could you treat your own ally like that?


    Shes not my ally, Nimea stammered, futilely grasping at Chances hand, but his grip was like iron. Shes my servant. This is her purpose. I  Im sorry. Ill leave. You can have the treasure.


    Chances hand trembled with anger. He ground his teeth and his fingers twitched at his side. Invisible to all of them, Yamishs fists clenched.


    Destroy her, Yamish hissed.


    The treasure was never yours to give, Chance snapped. But human lives arent toys. You treat yourpanions with <em>respect. </em>They arent tools.


    Nimea pped Chances hand away and fell to the ground, gasping in pain. She scrambled away from him and rose to her feet.


    You can have her, you crazy psychopath. Forget this! Nimea said, her eyes crazed. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a wooden token. A manic smile pulled across her lips. Do onest favor for your master, Quinn. Distract him.


    Quinn lurched forward, bands of red energy searing against her wrists and forcing her into action. Chance swayed out of the way as Quinn staggered past, his eyes not leaving Nimea as she snapped the token.


    Essence swirled around her, and runes rapidly appeared on the ground at her feet. Yamish extended a hand, dragging his finger through the runes. They shattered at his touch, going up in smoke and leaving Nimea standing there, her eyes wide in disbelief.


    I  I dont understand, Nimea said, taking a step back. How?


    Quinn lunged at Chance again, forming a stone axe in her hands. He stepped back, whipping his leg out and intertwining it between Quinns. She stumbled, falling to the ground before him with a grunt. The axe flew from her grip, ttering across the ground.


    Does it matter? Chance asked. Shes fighting while you do nothing, and its by choice rather than necessity. What kind of terrible teammate are you?


    I already told you. Shes just a servant. I have dozens of them, Nimea spat. Take one step toward me and my fathers sect will crush you like a bug. You have no idea who I am.


    Chance winced. Ouch. That line was really, really pathetic. Do you even hear yourself? Dont you have a single spec of anything redeemable in you? Do you even know why you arent dead yet?


    Because youre not stupid, Nimea said with a panickedugh. You know. Yes, you know who my father is. Thats why. I


    You arent a threat, Chance said tly. Killing you would be wrong because you couldnt defend yourself from me, even if you wanted to. It would be a stain on my Karma.


    What are you talking about? Nimea edged toward the hole in the wall shed made earlier. Youre insane.


    Youre nothing, Chance said, shaking his head. You dont even realize. Everyone has the potential to be something, and youre actively choosing to be nothing. Leave. I wont kill you. You arent worth the stain on my de.


    Nimea spun to sprint out of the room. She screamed in terror as the des of Chances urumi whipped past her head, just barely missing her.


    Onest thing, Chance said, retracting the urumi and stalking toward Nimea. He nodded at Quinn, who was still lying on the floor. How are you controlling her?


    Nimea swallowed heavily. I  its my Essence. The Essence of Binding.


    I didnt ask what you were using. I asked how you were doing it.


    You said I could leave.


    Chaces stare burned into Nimeas face. She swallowed again.


    I can bind parts of my body to my servants. It lets me make them follow mymands  but I didnt even do the binding! Im not strong enough. My father


    What part? Chances words were measured.


    Nimea raised a trembling hand. My left pinky.


    Chances urumi shed. Nimeas hand thudded to the ground. She screamed in pain, clutching the stump of her hand to her chest as blood poured out of it. Chance reached into his pocket and pulled out a vial of medicinal pills. He threw one to the ground before Nimea.


    Leave.


    Nimea grabbed the pill, gasping and wheezing in pain as she staggered out of the room. Yamish watched her leave, his fury turned pensive.


    Interesting. Very interesting, my apprentice. Not the path I would have chosen, no. But a path. One that I can work with. You continue to fascinate me. Indeed, a marvelous find.


    And then he was gone, leaving not a single trace of his passing.

 Chapter 103: Friends

    Chapter 103: Friends


    As soon as Nimea left the room, Quinn crumpled to the ground like a puppet whose strings had been cut. Strands of ropey red energy curled off her back and neck, rising into the air and dissipating.


    Chance stared at the hand on the ground, watching the blood pool at his feet and stain his shoes. He reached down for it, then paused. His fingers twitched and he squeezed his hand into a fist, retracting it.


    Are you going to attack again? Chance asked softly.


    Quinn let out a pained groan and writhed on the ground, trying to pick at something at her back. A thin sliver of metal pushed out from between her shoulder des and ttered onto the ground. As soon as it came free, Quinn slumped forward.


    No. I have no reason to fight you any further.


    Nimea was forcing you to fight me, right?


    Quinn didnt reply. She stared at the metal like she were looking into a mirror. Chance turned away from her, looking through the smoke to try to get a glimpse at Be. He hadnt heard anything from either her or Ocie, so everything was still fine. It probably wouldnt be long before more cultivators arrived, though.


    Then youve got two options, Chance said. Stay here or leave. If youve got any designs on the power that drew you here, I wont let you pass until my friend is finished cultivating.


    Quinn looked up at Chance for the first time since Nimea had left. Youd let me stay?


    It was pretty obvious that you werent fully in control of your actions. It would be wrong of me to hold you ountable for that, but Im not going to put my own team at risk either.


    Quinn nodded. I understand. I  I dont know what else I can do. Ill stay.


    Chance inclined his head. He listened closely for a minute, trying to see if he could hear anyone elseing. All that reached his ears was the crackle of the fire surrounding Be. He turned back, sitting down in front of it.


    Several minutes passed. Quinn dragged herself over to the wall and sat with her back to it, staring at the ground with a nk, lost expression. Chance pulled a healing pill out of one of his vials and flicked it over to her.


    Quinn caught it, looking up at him with a surprised expression.


    What is this? Quinn asked suspiciously.


    A healing pill.


    Why?


    Why not? Youre injured.


    Were enemies.


    We were enemies, Chance corrected. I dont hate the sword. You even tried to talk Nimea out of attacking me. What happened was her fault, not yours.


    Quinn looked down at the pill in her hands. A bitter smile flickered across her face and she put it into her mouth, swallowing. She seemed mildly surprised to find that her wounds actually started to seal over a momentter.


    Its wasted, Quinn said.


    Kindness is never wasted.


    Ill be dead soon anyway, Quinn said with augh. As soon as I leave the Ancient Realm, Ill return to our home sect. Nimea will have me killed if Im lucky. More likely, Ill end up being made into an example.


    Chances lips pressed thin.


    <em>Perhaps letting her live wasnt the right move, but killing her felt I dont know. Wrong. Not because she deserved to live, but killing someone that much weaker than me felt like it would impact my Karma. Like it wasnt my ce to deal with her. </em>


    Im sorry, Chance said. Maybe I shouldnt have let her live.


    If you hadnt let her live, I doubt you would have let me live either. Ill take a few days of freedom over having to continue living as a servant to her. At least Ill die my own woman.


    Theres no way you could find another way out? Chance asked.


    Quinn shrugged. I could camp the exit portals, I suppose. Wait for someone else to use them, then try to jump into their portal together with them. Its a better shot than nothing.


    Something rumbled outside the mansion. Chance and Quinn both paused, looking up toward the source of the noise. They remained silent for several moments, listening intently. There was no more noise.


    Chance slipped to his feet and his urumi slithered into his grip.


    You cant hold all the cultivators off, you know, Quinn warned. There was a lot of power here. Its got to have summoned a ton of powerful people. Now that Nimeas gone, all bets are off. You should take your friend and run before someone stronger than uses along.


    The advice was sound. Chance couldnt argue with it  but Be wasnt going to get another break like this out of nowhere anytime soon. Theyd already agreed that there were certain risks that they had to take if they wanted to get stronger, and it wasnt like there were any cultivators here yet.


    Youre free to leave, Chance said. I wont keep you here. We wont be giving this treasure up for free, though. If someone wants it, theyll have to take it from us.


    Quinn shook her head in disbelief. She opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by a heavy footfall from the tunnel that Nimea had retreated through. They both froze, turning toward it.


    Another footfall echoed through the darkness. A second and third followed after it, each echoing ominously.


    Chance tensed, readying his Essence.


    <em>Maybe theyll be willing to share. The offers still on the table for people that dont try to kill us first. </em>


    Nimeas head poked through the hole. Chance blinked in surprise. After everything, he hadnt thought shed actuallye back. Shed struck him as entitled, notpletely stupid. Then the head was followed  not by a body, but by a muscled arm.


    Lin ducked into the room, anguid grin on his face as he swung Nimeas head by his side. Quinns eyes traced her former masters head as it made slow arcs through the air, blood dripping from its neck and sttering across Lins pants.


    My friend, Lin said, extending his arms and dropping Nimeas head on the ground before him. You let your prey escape. I caught it for you. I hope you dont mind that I took some liberties first. I tried to speak, but she was annoying.


    Lin. Chance watched therge man warily. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end at the look in Lins eyes. Hunger and deep, barely restrained fury smoldered within them. They belonged to a predator, not a human. I didnt realize youd entered the Ancient Realm.


    I wasnt originally nning on it, but my conversation with the Shikari got me interested. I found that I couldnt help myself any longer. I hope you werent setting up for a longer hunt. Did I interfere?


    No, Chance ground out. I wasnt actually nning on killing her.


    Oh. I see, Lin said. He rubbed his chin, then looked up at Quinn. Whos this?


    Her former servant, Chance replied. An unwilling participant. Im letting her rest here while she figures out what to do next. Did youe for the energy source?


    Lin blinked. Theres an energy source?


    Chance and Quinn exchanged a nce.


    Lin looked past Chance, then burst intoughter. That? No. I dont care about that. The most interesting part of the Ancient Realm is the Hunt, and that Shikari got me far too worked up. I thought I was doing you a favor by having dinner with them, but it turned out to be a favor for myself instead. It must be Karma.


    Chance studied Lins face closely, trying to figure out what the mans intentions were. Everything he knew about Lin  including his instincts  told him to run screaming, but he was more cordial than Yeo on days that he didnt get a good breakfast.


    Did you want this? Lin asked, nudging Nimeas head with the tip of his foot and looking at Quinn.


    Quinn swallowed heavily and scooted back. I  no. No. I dont want it.


    Unfortunate. With how much she screamed, I thought at least <em>someone </em>would have cared. You are Quinn, I presume?


    Quinn gave him a shaky nod.


    She was screaming your name when I killed her, Lin said.


    Quinns face went white. For help?


    No, no. She was cursing you, I believe, Linn replied, rubbing his chin with a blood-covered hand. Curious thing, to waste your final breaths in anger at another. Theyre thest traces you leave on this world. Spending them on someone else so selfless.


    Quinn sent Chance a terrified nce. He didnt me her.


    <em>I knew Lin was dangerous and insane, but this is way worse than what I thought it was. He seemed pretty normal when I met him the first time, and he was only slightly terrifying the second time around. What in the world happened?</em>


    Lin? Chance asked. He called on his Essence, directing it to his forehead and opening his third eye. Strands of Karma swam to life around Lin in such a thick web that it was difficult to make out one from the other.


    Lin tilted his head to the side. Yes?


    What happened at your dinner with Shae and Jade? Did it go well?


    It was enjoyable, Lin said. Not nearly worth the favor you paid me, though. I thought I might pay it off some by taking care of this girl, but it seems I may have simply inconvenienced you even further.


    Chance flicked through the strands of Karma, searching desperately for a familiar face. Almost as if the Karma detected his desire, the strands shifted and moved out of the way as one came forth.


    At first, all Chance could see was red. As he studied it harder, more detail emerged. It was his room in the Dancing Cloud sect. Jade knelt beside Shae. The entire room was covered with blood, and Shaes arm had been ripped off at the shoulder.


    Jades eyes were wide with terror and she was screaming something, but there was still some life left in Shaes eyes. Chance fought the bile that built up in his throat. It didnt seem like Shae was dead, and Jade appeared safe  physically, at least.


    Nobody died? Chance asked.


    No, I promised not to kill anyone, Lin said with a gentle smile. I am a man of my word. The Shikari did attempt to leave a little early, so we had to have a slight discussion, but I left him with all the information he wanted to report back to his supervisors in Gleam.


    A distant rumble shook the mansion again. Lin nced up.


    Youve got other cultivators in the area. Were you nning on sitting here for much longer? I would be curious to see how you find your way out of this one if you do. It would be interesting to see if you survive.


    Do you happen to know what rank they are? Chance asked.


    There are several. I noticed multiple Rank Fours and at least one Rank Five.


    Chance chewed his lower lip. Even if Lee wasnt going to be a threat, cultivators of that strength were a massive problem. If they made it to Be, there wasnt going to be much they could do.


    I sense an opportunity, Lin observed. Perhaps you need some time. I deal in that sort, and I am eager to settle the scales between us.


    Chances stomach clenched, but he nodded. My friend is trying to cultivate. Shes absorbing the Essence from the treasure that fell through the roof of the mansion.


    Then I shall help. It is decided, Lin said, a smile stretching across his face. That will bring us both peace. Remain here. It will be difficult for me to notice you while I am working, and it would be unfortunate if something were to happen.


    With that, Lin strode out of the room, only pausing to grab Nimeas head and take it with him. Once he left, Quinn let out a terrified breath.


    I thought he was going to kill both of us. Ive changed my mind. I dont want to die anymore. Im finding a way out of here. Are you really allied with that monster?


    Allied might not be the right term, Chance admitted, unease resting heavily on his shoulders. Im not sure getting his attention is such a good thing. I would follow his suggestion if I were you.


    You think Im going to disobey someone like that? Quinn asked with a shudder. Ill be right over here, thank you. I just hope this doesnt take too long. If he doesnt pop my head like a grape, I want to get out of the Ancient Realm and nevere back.


    Chance couldnt help but agree with her.

 Chapter 104: Exit portal

    Chapter 104: Exit portal


    Seconds ticked by. Even though Chance and Quinn had been fighting just minutes before, both of them paid borderline no attention to each other as they sat. The silence was asionally broken by distant screams or loud, crashing explosions. Shudders shook the ind periodically, but nobody else ever entered the room.


    Time stretched on, going from minutes to hours. Chance continued to patrol the room, just to make sure nobody slipped by whatever was happening outside, but it proved pointless. The inside of the mansion was empty. Nobody wasing.


    Chance wasnt sure exactly how much time passed. It wasnt more than a day, but it was at least twelve hours  probably somewhere between the two, when the ring of smoke surrounding the crystal fluttered as if a breeze had blown through it.


    He and Quinn both watched it warily. Ocie still hadnt tried to contact Chance, and he hadnt heard any fighting inside the mansion itself, so he doubted that anyone had attacked or interrupted Be, but that still didntpletely reassure him.


    Something glittered within the smoke. A sparkle of green light shimmered behind it, and Be stepped out of the mes, walking through them as if they werent there. She looked like shed just woken up from a long nap.


    Rubbing the weariness from her eyes, Be looked from Chance to Quinn. How long was I out? Who is this?


    Not that long, Chance said, a relieved smile crossing his face. This is Quinn. Shes well, she isnt an enemy. Someone was using Essence to force her to fight.


    Bes eyes darkened. Disgusting. Where are they?


    Dead, Quinn said, her voice still slightly hollow. Your friend killed her.


    Chance? Be asked, blinking. Thats surprising. I would have assumed youd try to leave her alive and scold her or something. Good job. People like that dont deserve to live.


    Chance cleared his throat and nced to the side. Actually, I wasnt the one that killed her. I admit I considered it, but it felt like killing her would negatively impact my own Karma because of how pathetic she was. I know, I know. Thats odd, since she was clearly a terrible person, but I couldnt shake the gut feeling.


    Bes frown deepened. Thats understandable, but if you didnt kill this person  what friend is she talking about?


    Lin, Chance said with a grim expression. He showed up with Nimea  that was her name  Nimeas head.


    Hes also in the Ancient Realm? I could tell he was unhinged, but just how bad are we talking? He seemed to be on our side back in the Dancing Cloud Sect.


    I think sides are very rtive with him, Chance said. And, possibly worse, I have no idea how strong Lin really is. The Shikari that was chasing us implied that he was wanted by someone high up, which cant be a good sign.


    Be just cocked an eyebrow. She didnt need to say anything for Chance to be able to read what she was thinking.


    <em>So are we. </em>


    I dont think hell just randomly attack us. I just dont want to take the risk. After Nimea  Chance broke off and frowned, his fists clenching by his sides. Never mind.


    This <em>is </em>going really far just to repay a small favor, Be said. Do you think hes aiming for something?


    Chance shrugged. I have no idea. Maybe hes just a really honorable person and feels like favors need to be paid back. He could also just have a great understanding of Karma. But, if things do go poorly, I dont think we can defeat him. Not unless you just got a lot stronger. Speaking of, did it work?


    Be nced over her shoulder at the smoke rising up behind them. When she looked back, a confident grin stretched across her lips. Yeah. Im a Knight now.


    Yes! Great job! Chance eximed.


    Thanks. It honestly almost feels like I didnt quite earn it, Be said, chewing her lower lip for a moment. But I got a lot from it. Didnt even need to finish using up the Essence, actually. Theres still some left.


    Did Ocie take it?


    Be shook her head. No. Maybe youre rubbing off on her. Im not sure if thats a good thing or a bad thing, especially after how tempted she seemed to be earlier. Once I was done cultivating, Ocie just sank into the ground and left.


    Huh, Chance said. Well, good for her. Its good to learn how to share. Shes gotten more than enough out of this whole thing, so itll be nice to let someone else profit. Quinn, couldnt you also use the crystal?


    I thought you said I couldnt


    Not until Be was done, Chance said. But she is, and youve been dealt a pretty bad hand. Im not going to stop you. Besides, if you want to have any chance of surviving out there on your own, youre going to need to be stronger.


    Quinn swallowed. Her eyes went from Chance to the wall of smoke surrounding the crystal.


    It might be a bit before anyone else is bold enough to challenge Lin. Even if he leaves, you could have enough time to cultivate here if youre quick to escape, Chance said. Its up to you. Nobody can force you to make a decision anymore.


    Why are you doing this? Quinn asked. I dont understand. I tried to kill you a few hours ago. Even if I was being controlled, it was still me.


    The key bit here is tried. Besides, you attempted to talk things out. Since Be has what she needs, theres no reason for us to be enemies. Id rather the power went to someone who actually needs it rather than some random greedy cultivator. But youre going to have to make your decision fast. The longer youre here, the more chances someone strong shows up.


    Quinn stared at the fire for a few moments. Then her jaw set and she slowly rose to her feet.


    Thank you. Youre right. I cant go back the way I came, so Ill need to be strong enough to follow after someone. Ill take the shot.


    Good luck, Chance said.


    Quinn nodded. She stepped past them, headed toward the wall of smoke. As she passed Chance, he tilted his head slightly to the side and turned to look back at her.


    Hey, Quinn?


    Yes? Quinn stopped walking just before the wall of fire blocking off the crystal.


    I hope you dont take this the wrong way, but youre a Knight as well, arent you? Why didnt you put up more of a fight? Im not saying you were a bad warrior, but you should have been able to do a lot more than what you did.


    Quinn didnt answer for a moment. Then she slowly turned back, and a flicker of a smile crossed her face before vanishing, reced by sad determination once more. Youre a little more astute than I thought you were. Nimea could only make me do what she could imagine, and she wasnt a Knight. Its not my fault she just thought I was ipetent. Its pretty difficult to know what someones abilities are if you never see them, you know.


    Then she stepped through the fire, vanishing within it. Be and Chance exchanged a nce, then wordlessly stepped into the hall that Nimea and Quinn had left them. They walked silently for a few moments before Be finally broke it.


    If Im picking up context clues correctly


    She wanted Nimea to die, Chance said with a nod. Quinn intentionally didnt let Nimea know she was a good bit stronger than she actually was, hoping shed lose the fight. She might have been nning to die as well, I think. I doubt she expected someone to kill Nimea but not her.


    Shes a pretty damn good actor, Be muttered, ncing over her shoulder. They came to a curve in the tunnel and followed it, starting to ascend a makeshift stairwell in the stone. Either that or she only just made up her mind about the future now.


    Might as well give her the benefit of the doubt. I think theres a reason I could tell that killing Nimea would mess with my Karma, though. Quinn deserved to be free. Everyone does  but Im not a sword for hire. That interaction wasnt organic. Nimea should have faced justice by Quinns own hand, not mine or Lins.


    Somehow, I get the feeling that Lin might not really care all that much about this sort of thing. If he did, he wouldnt go around punching holes in peoples chests, Be muttered. Thanks for covering me, though. I wouldnt have been able to do that if you werent there.


    Were a team, Chance said with a shrug. Thats what we do. Its just too bad Quinn and Nimea werent the same. They could have done so much more. Hopefully Quinn can find someone that treats her like an equal.


    The tunnel wound up, taking a sharp turn before leading outside, letting sunlight wash into the tunnel through the small hole above them. It was just tall enough to be a little too far to see out of, even if they jumped. Chance and Be both fell silent in case someone else was in the area. They exchanged a nce and Be pointed at herself. Chance nodded, then crouched near the wall.


    Be stepped forward. Her skin glittered, turning crystalline. Chance boosted her up and she caught onto the edge of the hole, pulling herself up and ncing around.


    I dont see anyone else here.


    She swung out the rest of the way, then reached down to Chance, pulling him up as well. Chance opened his third eye, quickly looking around as soon as he was on the surface to see if he could spot any strands of Karma hanging around.


    There were none. Surprisingly, he couldnt even see anything belonging to Lin. He scrunched his nose. That meant that either Lin had left, or he had some sort of way to hide his Karma from Chance.


    <em>Whered he go? I feel like he would have showed up if he was still here, but I find it hard to believe that someone actually beat him in a fight. Lin just feels I dont know. Too strong to go down like that? Not to some random cultivator, at least. </em>


    Anyone? Be asked.


    No. Chance shook his head. Nobody that I can see, at least. What are your thoughts on trying to get out of the Ancient Realm? If Lin is here, then


    Shae and the other Shikari could be as well, Be said with a grim nod. They probably are.


    <em>Assuming Lin wasnt lying about killing Shae. I saw that room. Even if he says Shae survived, I wouldnt be surprised if Lin just meant he left him alive and Shae died a minuteter. </em>


    Right, Chance said. So escape?


    Escape, Be agreed. They walked up to the edge of the small floating ind they were on and squinted out over the horizon, looking for the nearest exit portal. Be pointed to their left, where a beam of blue light rose between a small cluster ofrge, jagged hills. There were a few ruins clumped on top of them, but it was also the closest beam to them.


    Its certainly close, but theres lots of ces for people to hide, Chance said. People will almost certainly be waiting for anyone thats trying to leave to try and get the jump on them. Thats a good ce to do it.


    Thats kind of what Im counting on, Be said with a grin. Well go back to the Dancing Cloud sect if we use our own exit portal, wont we?


    Chances eyes lit up. Oh! I dont know how I didnt think of that. Youre thinking we should try to run through someone elses portal to throw off the Shikari?


    Exactly. What do you think?


    Well, at the very least, itll be a nice change of attitude. Well actually be happy to see someone attack us for once.


    Beughed. Then its decided. Lets get out of here before someonees after us. I still want to do a lot more practice before I actually try to use my new abilities. I dont think theyd go too well in a surprise test like yours did.


    You going to tell me what they are? Chance asked as they started toward the rope bridges, making their way away from the floating inds.


    Once Im confident I can actually do it, Be replied. I dont want to rely on it quite yet.


    Fair enough. Onward, then. Hopefully, the Shikari are a lot farther behind us than Lin was.

 Chapter 105: The Truth of Gleam

    Chapter 105: The Truth of Gleam


    They descended the mountain, finding nothing waiting for them on the way down. Despite all themotion that the crystal had caused, the mountain waspletely empty. Chance and Be didnt question their good luck and kept a steady pace. Day stretched on and turned to night, casting the world in a silver glow.


    Should we try to camp for the night? Chance asked as they walked. I think we could probably just push on and reach the transport portal.


    Thats probably the best move, Be said. "I dont think time is our friend, and well have time to rest once we get out of here. I did also just get to sit around cultivating for quite some time, so Im refreshed. Youre the one that was awake. Are you going to be okay?


    Yeah, I wont have any problems. Ive been using a lot of Essence to keep my third eye open and scanning for Karmic threads, though. If we get into a big fight, I might not be quite as useful as I normally am.


    Be chewed her lower lip. Okay. Its still better to know if weve got enemiesing. Ill make up the ck, and Ocie can help too.


    A rock in front of them trembled. Be drew for her Essence, then let her hands drop.


    Ocie also needs a better way tomunicate than shaking rocks around.


    Well work on it, Chance promised, hiding a smile.


    The shadows stretched longer, keeping thempany as they walked. In the distance, Chance could hear the sounds ofbat and muted sts of Essence. He asionally saw a sh light up the sky, but none of thebat seemed to be happening near them.


    Without any interruptions, he and Be made good time. By the time the moon was heading back toward its resting spot beneath the horizon and the suns rays had just barely started to begin turning the sky a muted purplish orange, they had started up the hills toward the ruins surrounding the exit portal.


    Channce and Be slowed as they passed through them, their guards raised. They clearly hadnt been the first ones to the ruins. The signs of battle littered the ground and walls. Chance brushed a hand across arge, scorched boulder. He rubbed the ash between his fingers.


    Probably not worth checking the area out for anything worth taking, Chance said. We should just get out of here. Im pretty sure anything wed actually want would be long gone.


    Agreed, Be said, keeping her voice low so it wouldnt echo through the ruins. I can see the pir of light for the exit portal, so were close. If theres somebody waiting to ambush us, theyll either be right at the portal or pretty close to it.


    Chance nodded. Im watching for Karmic threads. Nothing so far. Im honestly kind of surprised. I would have thought


    He froze, jerking a hand up to grab Bes shoulder as a flicker of a glowing thread caught his eye. It was so thin that he barely noticed it, but now that his eyes were on it, he could just barely make out some of the other threads between the stone walls of the ruin.


    Found one, Chance whispered. Could be more. Hard to tell because of all the walls in the way.


    Well, cant say we werent expecting it, Be said. Whats the strategy? We need them to activate the portal.


    Ask politely? Chance offered.


    Be nced at him out of the corner of her eyes. Seriously?


    Maybe theyll be nice. We might need to do a bit of coercing, though. Anyone waiting around at the exit probably isnt too strong, right? The strong people would be out hunting.


    Be inclined her head slightly. Thats a fair point. But anyone waiting around probably also isnt going to be the friendliest of sorts.


    Thats where the persuasiones in, Chance said, his smile growing a few degrees colder. Ocie, want to help?


    Rubble rose up from the ground, pulling away from the cracked ruins and forming into Ocies craggy form. Stone melted together, forming into a surprisingly urate golem  Ocie was getting a lot better at making herself look humanoid. It didnt even have any ring issues this time, though her eyes were still spaced much too far apart and her nose was at an angle that Chance had never seen a nose take.


    Do you want me to kill them? Ocie asked.


    No, Chance said quickly. Not unless we have to. I dont want to kill when we can avoid it. Besdies, we need someone to activate the exit portal.


    Keep them alive, then, Ocie said. Understood. I will engage.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce.


    Should we at least <em>try </em>to talk first? Chance asked.


    Be sighed. Youre not going to be happy unless we do, are you?


    Chance grinned.


    Fine. Ocie, can you get in position and then wait until they inevitably attack Chance? Then we can start fighting afterward.


    Ocie nodded. She turned and slipped into the stone building, passing straight through it and vanishing. Chance watched the rock where shed been standing, then grunted.


    Thats damn useful. Wish I could do that.


    Seriously? The guy that controls fate itself is jealous he cant walk through some rocks?


    Its not fate, its luck, Chance corrected. And Im not sure if I can control luck or just influence it.


    Technicalities. Get moving and try to talk to the people that are clearly waiting in ambush so we can get this started with already. Im looking forward to a night of rest in an actual bed again.


    They continued forward, and Be reinforced herself with her Essence once more. Chance did the same, calling on the golden mist and letting it wreath his feet as he walked. Trying to work things out peacefully was one thing, but he didnt want to catch an arrow to the throat because he was trying to be nice.


    The ruins made arge ring around the portal runes in the center of the cluster of mountains, and it didnt take long for Chance and Be to work their way through the rubble and arrive at the edge of the hills.


    Below them, the teleportation circle waited. The beam of faint blue light rising up from it was so close that Chance could probably have touched it if he wanted to, and all the threads of Karma ran down into the remains of an overgrown house near the circle.


    Chance nodded down to it. Over there.


    Conspicuous, Be said dryly. Right next to the circle. They werent really taking any chances, were they? Better make sure you dont step on the circle on the way over there. I dont know how quickly it activates, but Id hate to find out we just getunched back to the Dancing Cloud Sect and the waiting Shikari the moment you touch it.


    Probably best to be safe, Chance agreed. They made their way around the top of the hills, keeping to the ruins to help obscure themselves as they grew closer to the house. When they were behind it, they started down the steep hill.


    Chance stepped blindly, not even looking where he was going. His luck guided his steps, making sure they allnded on solid ground. Be did her best to copy his movements, but she had to move a little slower to avoid tripping.


    Vines covered the back of the house, saving them from having to worry about if anyone was watching them through the window.


    When Chance reached the house, he pressed his ear to the thin stone and listened, trying to hear if anyone was moving around behind it. There was only silence. Be arrived beside him a momentter and raised an eyebrow.


    Chance shook his head, and the two crept toward the front, stopping just before the remains of the doorway. He gathered his Essence at his Gate, pulling deeply on it to make sure whoever was waiting beyond it didnt get the jump on him, then stepped out.


    Hello, Chance said, raising a hand in greeting and stering what he hoped was aforting expression on his face. I dont meant to interrupt you, but


    The words died on his lips.


    Oh, Chance said. Didnt expect to see you here.


    Cant say I felt the same, Jade replied, looking up at him from the chair she was sitting in. She had her massive sword buried in the ground beside her and was resting a hand on the hilt. I knew you wereing.


    Did you? Chance asked, ncing around in search of any other threads of Karma. He couldnt see any.


    <em>Is Jade alone again? Or is Shae somehow hiding himself?</em>


    Your <em>friend </em>told me youd being. Jade pushed herself out of the chair and Chance tensed, but she didnt go for the sword. What kind ofpany do you keep, Chance?


    Lin hes his own person, Chance said. I dont keep hispany. I dont think he gives people much of a choice when he decides to do something, actually. You know, now that I think about it, Ive been running into a lot of people like that recently. Kind of annoying.


    What are you talking about? Jade asked. Chance opened his mouth and she shook her head. Never mind. It doesnt matter.


    I dont suppose youd be willing to talk things out? Chance asked. The Shikari are after Be and me for crimes we didntmit. Well, we kind of did. They attacked us first, though.


    Chance asked the question more out of obligation than actually expecting it to go anywhere. Hed seen Jades face in the vision within Lins Karmic threads. Shed watched Lin brutalize her mentor. If she hadnt thought he was a monster then, there was almost no chance that


    Im standing here, arent I? Jade asked.


    Chance blinked. What?


    Im telling you to talk. Jade crossed her arms. Lin told me youd probably end uping this way, and I want answers. He said you could give them to me.


    Chance stared at her in disbelief. You mean talking it out is actually going to work for once?


    Why do you sound so surprised?


    Well, it usually ends with someone trying to kill me, Chance replied, rubbing his chin. You nning to do that?


    Depends on how the talk goes.


    Well, thats pretty reasonable. Be, you want toe out? Ocie as well. We might as well all sit down.


    The rock behind Jade rippled and Ocie stepped out. Jade leapt back, going for her sword, but Ocie just raised several chairs from the ground and sat down in one  or rather, on top of one. The back of the chair intersected perfectly with her body.


    Be stepped out from behind the house, her skin crystalline. She sent a suspicious look at Jade.


    Are you sure about this, Chance? Shes a Shikari.


    If shes willing to talk, we might as well, Chance said. He nced back at the portal. Although this does mean we cant exactly use her for the n.


    We can just wait for someone else to show up, Ocie said. I will keep watch. You three can talk.


    Ocie sank into the ground and vanished, taking her chair with her. Jade stared at the ground, then swallowed heavily.


    What was that?


    Better keep the questions more to the topic at hand, Chance said, walking up to one of the chairs. He sat down. Jade considered the chair beside her for a moment, then slowly lowered herself into it. Be was thest to sit, and she still didnt make any moves to release her Essence.


    Chance kept his own at hand, though he let it pull back a little so it wasnt quite so apparent.


    Okay, Chance said. What do you want to know?


    The Shikari. I want to know why theyre after you, Jade said, clenching her fists. Somethings going on, and I want to know what. Theyre acting strange.


    Its a pretty long story. Chance rubbed his chin. To his surprise, it was Be that stepped in.


    Its because of a cultivator by the name of Vex. If youre willing to speak, then well let you know whats actually happening in Gleam.

 Chapter 106: Talk no Jutsu

    Chapter 106: Talk no Jutsu


    Chance spent nearly five minutes filling Jade in on just who Vex was. He avoided saying anything about Yamish or Ocie, just focusing on the cultivator that had been guing Bes life ever since she was a child.


    Be put in her side of the story to fill in the gaps or events that had happened before Chance had arrived.


    He sounds like a terrible person, Jade said once the two of them had finished. But I dont understand. What does a cultivator like that have to do with any of this? I would understand if you were just running from him, but youre used of killing multiple Shikari.


    That was just the backstory, Chance said with a huff. Vex has been trying to get back at Be because she turned her back on him and decided to follow her own path. Hes the reason the Shikari are after us.


    Is he really that powerful? Jade asked, crossing her arms. Im trying to give you the benefit of the doubt, but the Shikari and Gleam are powerful entities. A single cultivator, especially one as petty as that  even if he was a Rank 9, I dont think he could force them to do anything like this.


    What makes you think he needed to force anything? Be mirrored Jades posture. We were the equivalent of new recruits to the Shikari. Id been around for longer, but I was already known as somewhat problematic. Even if he hadnt had any other help, Vex could have shown up and say we were enemies to Gleam and theyd probably believe him over us. Why would someone that powerful lie?


    Jade pressed her lips together and clenched her hands. The Shikari wouldnt just take his word for it. Theyre just. Theyd look into things, even if it seemed stacked against you. Thats why the Schr Cities exist. To stand strong in spite of the monsters, not to be part of them.


    I dont know about the Shikari as a whole, Chance said. Im from earth. I only arrived here a few months ago. The Shikari I had the most experience with was Pete, and I trust himpletely, so I know where youreing from. But, even if the Shikari are bastions of good, that doesnt mean they cant be tricked. Vex wasnt the only one involved in this.


    Who else? Jade demanded. If you arent lying, there needs to be an investigation. We could go back to Gleam and argue


    Chance shook his head. No. We cant, and I cant tell you who the other person is either. Its too dangerous. Its someone thats powerful enough to pose a threat to Gleam itself. Be and I cant return to Gleam for about another two months. Please dont ask any more about the other cultivator. I wont answer.


    Then how am I supposed to believe anything you say? Jade asked, rising from her chair. Be tensed, but Jade just paced a circle around her sword. I want to believe you. But, without something else, I cant.


    And we cant give you anything else without putting you in incredible danger, Be said. Its an impasse.


    Not necessarily, Chance said. Did the Shikari put a time limit on when we had to be captured?


    Jade tilted her head to the side in confusion and frowned. What? No, I guess not. Thats not really a convincing argument, though.


    Its my proof, though. In two months, the Shikari are going topletely forget this entire thing.


    I find that hard to believe. You two arent our highest priority, but you still killed Shikari. Theres no way theyd just let that pass  unless youre iming that didnt happen either?


    Chance lowered his eyes. No. That happened. An assassin tried to kill Be. We protected ourselves.


    And you think theyll just ignore that?


    Youll find out soon, Be pointed out. Chance is right. In two months, this will be nothing. Well show back up to Gleam, and thatll answer your questions.


    And prove the Shikari arepletely corrupt and controlled by people that dont actually embody the principles they im to, Jade said softly. What if youre wrong and the order to capture you is still out?


    Chance tapped a finger on his knee. His first thought was to promise that hed return to Gleam regardless, but Yamish was anything but predictable. It was totally possible the cultivator would decide they hadnt trained enough yet or t out refuse to pull the Shikari off their tail.


    I dont know, Chance admitted. Im sorry. We dont have a perfect answer that suddenly clears everything up. Theres nothing I can give you that just fixes everything.


    And the Red Hand? Jade asked.


    Someone that I ran into a while ago. I did him a favor, not knowing who he was. He felt indebted to me, and I think he decided that stopping Shae would count toward paying him off.


    Then why did he follow you here?


    Chand shook his head and shrugged. If I knew, Id tell you. I dont have any idea. Why did you know he was here, though? You mentioned he was talking to you. Were you wondering if he wasnt as bad as the rumors had said?


    No. I didnt have much choice. He and Shae got into a fight in your room because he was keeping us there for multiple days. Lin Jade trailed off and shuddered. The fight was terrible. Lins a madman and a demon in human flesh. Theres no doubt in my mind about that. He kept waiting for Shae to use healing pills whenever he got too injured, then attacked again. When Shae ran out, he just gave him more.


    Gods, Be muttered. Hes a psychopath.


    He eventually got bored with Shae. He had the same tokens you and Chance used, and he made me use one with him. I didnt have a choice, and he said it would be the only way he let Shae live.


    Chances stomach twisted. It wasnt like he hadnt already known it, but there was something seriously wrong with Lin.


    <em>What is it with unhinged psychopaths randomly fixating on me? What did I do to deserve this? </em>


    And then what? Be asked.


    Nothing, Jade replied in a baffled tone. He just roamed around the ancient realm with me. Wouldnt let me leave, but wouldnt say what he was doing. I mean, I could guess, but he wouldnt confirm it. Then we got here and he told me to stick around if I wanted to speak with you and left.


    Hes insane, Be muttered, keeping her voice low and ncing over her shoulder as if she expected to see Lin standing behind her.


    You dont have to convince me of that, Jade agreed. But it also became pretty clear he didnt know you.


    Why? Chance asked. I mean, thats true, but why?


    He was talking about your hunger for power and how you were like him. Thats part of why he helped you. But I dont think thats true. I cultivate the Essence of Righteousness.


    Totally not pompous, Be muttered under her breath.


    Jade reddened. I know. Its a bit embarrassing, but its not like I chose it. Its just right.


    Righteous, Chance corrected. Both Be and Jade red at him, and he raised his hands defensively. Sorry, sorry.


    Either way, Im a pretty good judge of character. It lets me know when people are good or not.


    You were traveling around with Shae, and I dont think hes that great of a person, Be pointed out. Is it selective or something?


    Jade grimaced. I was hoping I was wrong. He still means the best for people, Im sure. Hes just stricter than he should be. And maybe a bit too focused.


    Right, Be said slowly.


    Look, this isnt about him, Jade said irritably. Im saying I want to trust you and Chance. My Essence is telling me that you arent bad people, but thats not what every other piece of information is telling me. Logic says youre both just very convincing liars without any proof one way or another.


    Im afraid Im not sure what else I can do to prove Im being honest without putting you in serious danger, Chance said.


    Jade set her jaw. I know. Thats why Im going to make the decision myself.


    Well, try not to take too long. Were on a bit of a schedule. Id rather not be around when Lines back, Be said.


    Chance agreed with her. Jade did genuinely seem to be a good person, but he didnt think that was going to do anybody much good if Lin showed up in a bad mood. The man was terrifying  in some ways, more than Vex.


    I wont need any more time. Ive already figured out what Im going to do, Jade said.


    She walked back to her sword, pulling it from the ground with a grunt. Be rose to her feet, but Jade just slid the de back into its sheath and turned back to face the two of them, a determined expression on her face.


    I dont have enough information to make a good decision, so Im going to do my duty as a Shikari and get it.


    How? Chance asked, but he got the feeling he already knew the answer.


    Iming with you, Jade replied.

 Chapter 107: Talk No Jutsu 2

    Chapter 107: Talk No Jutsu 2


    You cant be serious, Be said.


    I absolutely am, Jade replied, crossing her arms. This is the only way I can know for sure that youre telling the truth. Its my duty as a Shikari to seek justice. Since theres no way for me know for sure one way or another if youre telling the truth, I have to follow my gut  and that means finding out myself.


    Whats to stop you from just telling the Shikari where we are? Be asked, matching Jades pose. How can we trust you?


    Youre iming that youre the ones wronged, right? So you arent doing anything bad.


    Right, Chance said slowly.


    Then youve got nothing to worry about if I tag along, Jade said, as if it was so logical that she couldnt evenprehend why they wouldnt have understood it. Whats the drawback here?


    Be stared at Jade. Did you hear a single word I said? You could somehow report back to the Shikari or otherwise try to hinder us.


    Ill give my word that I wont. Jade stared expectantly at them. What? Is that not enough?


    I mean Chance nced at Be, then chewed his lower lip. He really didnt know much about Jade at all, but she seemed very honest from what little he did know.


    <em>Im not sure if adding her to the group is the wisest decision, but having more people would make traveling safer, and Id really rather not have to fight Jade. But can we really just trust her like that? I dont want to get killed because the Shikari show up while Be and I are asleep. </em>


    Even if youre telling the truth, how do we know that the Shikari cant somehow track you? Be asked. Its entirely possible.


    Do you really think they care enough about a Knight Rank to waste all the effort of tracking me? Jade asked with augh. I dont have any trackers on me. Im sure theyd love to retroactively do it, but then theyd be able to do the exact same thing to the two of you. Maybe they are. Either way, it wouldnt change anything.


    Be pressed her lips together, but she didnt respond immediately. After several seconds of silence, she nced at Chance.


    What do you think?


    You mean youre okay with it? Chance asked, blinking. Dont take this the wrong way, but I kind of figured


    That Id be the one whod say no, Be said with a wry smile. Yeah, I normally would. But she deserves a chance to see what the Shikari really are.


    <em>Oh. Be sees a bit of herself in Jade. I dont think the situation Jade is in is nearly that bad, but I think I see the resemnce. Well, that leaves the decision to me. Jade hasnt done anything that would make me believe shes got an ulterior motive, so Ill give her the benefit of the doubt. Thats the right thing to do. </em>


    Would you mind if I take a look at your Karma? Chance asked Jade. I wont force you to say yes, but it would help put our worries at ease.


    You need my permission to do that?


    Well, no. But its pretty impolite. Itll basically let me look into important events in your past, Chance said. Id only do it without asking if you were an enemy or I thought you were plotting against us.


    Jade chewed her lower lip for a moment, then nodded. Okay. I can agree to that. I guess its only fair.


    Chance didnt wait for her to change her mind. He peered into the strands of Karma surrounding Jade with his third eye, watching the visions within them flitter by. He started with thergest ones, skipping past the most one that tied her to Lin.


    Over the course of the next few minutes, Chance quickly got a pretty good understanding of Jades past. He saw multiple glimpses of Gibson within them  some seemed directly tied to him, while others he was simply just present. Surprisingly, thatforted Chance. Gibson hadnt been the nicest man, but hed felt like he hadnt been a bad person.


    The visions in Jades Karmic strands seemed to repeat themselves over and over. Most of them were fighting  either against other people or against monsters. Chance watched Jade as she threw herself against Soothounds, Imps, and a variety of other monsters within Gleams streets.


    Sometimes she won, and other times she lost and had to retreat. She had almost no Karmic threats that were just normal interactions with other people. It felt like she was always in some sort of fight  and, more notably, she was nearly always alone.


    Aside from the smallest, mostly unimportant, threads, the only big ones tying her to other people were those to Gibson and Shae. Chance watched as Shae shoved Jade into a teleportation circle, using her to test it and make sure it was safe before stepping onto it himself.


    His expression darkened.


    What? Jade asked.


    Nothing. Your mentor was a real piece of work, though.


    Gibson?


    No, Shae. Was he not the one assigned to you? Chance asked.


    Jade shook her head. No. I ran into Shae while on this job. Why? What did he do?


    You realize he used you to test if a teleportation circle worked, right?


    Jade shrugged. Thats just how the Shikari work. Im less important because Im lower rank. Its our job to protect people, and that includes our superiors. If one of us died, it would be better if it was me.


    Chance and Be looked at each other, then turned back to Jade.


    I think you cane with us, Chance said, releasing his third eye and shaking his head. And youre going to really need to work on your self-esteem a little bit.


    Jade frowned and tilted her head to the side. What do you mean?


    Thats a conversation forter, Be said. If youre going to being with us, then youre going to have to help out as well. We cant have dead weight.


    As long as you arent doing anything criminal, then Ill do everything I can to help, Jade said. She paused for a moment, swallowing. Wewere leaving the Ancient Realms, right? I really dont want to run into Lin again. Hes terrifying.


    Dont worry, Chance muttered. We feel the same. And yes, were leaving.


    Great, Jade said with a relieved sigh. Lets go.


    Be grabbed Jades shoulder as the girl walked past them. Jade paused and looked back at her. What?


    We cant just get on the teleportation circle. Itll take us back to the Dancing Cloud sect, Be said.


    Jade blinked. Oh, yeah. I guess you wouldnt want to go back there. What was the n, then? Wait until somebody showed up and hitch a ride with them?


    Pretty much, Chance replied with a nod. Hopefully, itll be someone agreeable. To be honest, thats kind of what we were hoping you would be.


    Actually, we thought you were probably someone waiting to ambush us, Be said. Chance insisted on trying to talk first.


    Thats a good policy, Jade said with an approving smile. So we just do that again?


    Yep. We just have to wait for someone else to show up, Be said, leaning against the stone wall of the house and looking up out of the valley. Hopefully it doesnt take too long. I think weve all agreed that itll be good to get out of here before Lines along.


    ***


    The three of them set up in the small hut, peering out the windows and waiting for someone to show up. Light started to dim as they day dragged into night and shadows lengthened.


    Chance busied himself by absently ying with a tendril of golden mist. None of them had spoken much after the first conversation, each lost in their own thoughts. Chance was no different.


    <em>I wonder if Quinn is okay. I feel like I should have invited her toe with us, but somehow that just didnt feel like the right move. Was I just being paranoid? Then again, she wanted that power. I dont me her. If I was in Quinns situation, I would have done the same. Then again, she really felt like she was acting about something as well, and I dont know what it was. </em>


    <em>All this suspicion I really dont like this. I wish the Shikari could get off our backs. Constantly having to look over my shoulders in suspicion is grinding me down. Its hard to help people when Im worried half of them are going to stab me in the back. </em>


    Chance suppressed a sigh as he watched the shadows of the trees dance outside. In the far distance, he could hear the sounds of battle once again. Nothing seemed too close, luckily.


    <em>I really hope this means someone will be heading by soon, though. And, if we get lucky, maybe we wont have to fight them either. </em>


    The golden mist tingled against Chances fingertips. He paused, ncing down at it. The tendril he was ying with had looped around and sank into the ground. Chance cocked an eyebrow slightly.


    I think someone might being soon, Chance said.


    Really? How can you tell? Jade asked. I cant sense anyone. Are you using aura vision?


    Just listen to him. Be rose to her feet and held a hand out, pulling Chance up to his. She paused a moment, then offered the hand to Jade as well. Jade pushed herself upright on her own.


    Thanks, but I dont need the help, Jade said with a polite smile. You wont have to worry about looking after me. I can watch my own back.


    What? I was just


    Its fine, Chance said, shaking his head. We arent worried you wont pull your weight, Jade.


    Be shot Chance a look that told him that was exactly one of the things she was worried about, but she was standing in front of Jade so the other girl couldnt see it. Chance smiled in what he hoped was aforting manner.


    <em>Jade was alone in just about every strand of her Karma. Im not sure what that means, but I get the feeling shes not much for working in teams. Well, shell learn.</em>


    Where are they? Jade asked, ncing around. Should we be ready for a fight?


    Just wait a moment, Chance replied, ncing around the treeline. He reached into his chest, activating his aura vision. Several seconds passed. Then, at the edges of the trees, he saw a splotch of brown. There!


    I see them as well, Be said.


    As do I, Jade added. Whats the n? Wait until they run onto the circle and run on to join them?


    Chance grinned as the splotch grew brighter and eventually emerged from the trees. No, we wont need to do that.


    Would you look at that, Be said with a mixture of dry humor and relief. We got lucky.


    Quinn! Chance said, raising his voice just enough to let it carry and raising his hand in greeting.


    Quinn, who had already begun descending the valley to make for the transportation circle, sprung nearly ten feet into the air in surprise. She iled for a moment, then righted herself andnded on a pir of stone that shot out from the ground to catch her. Staring at them in surprise, Quinn hopped back to the ground and approached them warily. Chance and the others headed over to meet her.


    Whats going on? Quinn asked,ing to a stop as they drew closer. Why are you waiting here?


    For a pretty simr reason to you, Chance admitted, rubbing the back of his head. We cant head back to the area we originally came from.


    You all came from the same spot?


    Chance nodded. Jade just joined us, but yes. She just came a little bit after we did. Did everything go okay with the crystal?


    A smile passed over Quinns lips. Yes. Thank you. You did me two pretty big favors there.


    Technically, Im not sure how much I did, Chance admitted. But Im d things worked out. Nobody deserved to be treated the way Nimea was treating you.


    What happened? Jade asked.


    Another time, Be said, shaking her head.


    Did you want to join us in waiting? Chance asked. Were hoping someone wille by and we can snag their jump back home.


    <em>Even if Quinn wasnt totally forthright about everything, I dont feel like she was actively malicious. Probably.</em>


    Actually, I was nning to use the portal back to my home sect, Quinn said. Her eyes darkened. Im not done with them, and I have friends that were in simr situations to me.


    Chances shoulders tensed.


    Theyre keeping more ves?


    ves? Jade asked in surprise. The Schr Cities have banned very. What jurisdiction are you under?


    Quinn snorted. As if the Schr Cities send patrols out that far into the wilds. Im in  was in  the Brackern Sect.


    How strong is it? Chance asked slowly.


    Its a small sect, Quinn replied, ncing over her shoulder as a distant explosion echoed through the valley. Nimea was the daughter of a sect elder. Im not going to try to take all of them out. Im not that strong. But I can definitely free some of the others.


    Well, I think we found our portal out, Be said, rolling her neck.


    Quinn took a step back. What? You mean


    Chance nodded. Well help, provided you arent lying. Its the right thing to do.


    Ill help as well. Jades features were stormy. And Ill be following up with the Shikari when I return to Gleam as to why this was allowed to happen.


    Quinn swallowed heavily. Why? Why do you care?


    Its a sad world where you need a reason to care about others, Chance said. Are they going to say anything when you show up without Nimea?


    Not if youre all with me, Quinn said slowly. I was nning on just running when I arrived, since I doubt theyll be expecting anyone to return this soon. But, if Ive got Rank Three cultivators with me, they might actually have to think twice before doing anything. The sect isnt big enough to challenge all of you without figuring out who your backers are.


    Then we have a n, Chance said, a smile crossing his lips. With all that had happened in the Ancient Realm, he was happy to have something straight forward to do. And, judging by how he felt his Essence trembling in anticipation, he got the feeling that it agreed with him.

 Chapter 108: Justice

    Chapter 108: Justice


    Everyone ready? Chance asked.


    Aside from Quinn, they all stood with their hands linked at the edge of the rune circle. A distant explosion rang out, followed by a shockwave that shook the tops of the trees at the edges of the small valley. Quinn stood the closest to the circle, tensed as if she was about to pounce. Everyone nodded.


    Lets get out of here before a bunch of cultivatorse down on our heads, Be said. Make sure Quinn is the first one to step on. Once she activates the portal, the rest of us run after her.


    She started the countdown. When Be hit zero, Quinn took a step forward. Her foot fell on the stone circle and a ripple of energy washed out, lighting the runes covering it. She took another step, fully entering the circle.


    Energy whirred, growing in intensity. With a deep thrum, a st of Essence erupted from the ground and enveloped Quinn in a beam of light. She vanished.


    Now! Be yelled over the roar.


    All of them ran forward, holding onto each other. Chance summoned some of his golden mist, just to give the others a little bit of luck. He was pretty sure they wouldnt need it, but luck never hurt.


    The energy enveloped him, tingling like a thousand little spiders all running over his body, and then the world was consumed by a wall of light. Essence rushed past his ears, and the only things he could still feel were Be and Jades hands. His body felt weightless for a few moments, and he couldnt see anything other than glowing blue energy.


    And then something materialized beneath his feet. The energy faded, and it took the tingling sensation and brilliant light with it. Chance blinked furiously, squinting as a room came into vision around them.


    They were standing in the center of arge, strangely decorated room. A soft, brownish purple rug covered the ground beneath their feet. A dozen chairs were arranged along the sides of the room, and the only exit was a nice but in door at the far end of it. Quinn stood in the room as well, her back facing them.


    Chance released Jade and Bes hands. Jade looked around the room, resting a palm on the hilt of her huge sword.


    Where do we go? And what can we expect here? Jade asked.


    Follow me, but keep your voice down, Quinn replied in a low hiss, sending a nce back at them. Jade reddened and nodded. The three of them crept up behind Quinn as she approached the door, pressing her ear to it for a moment before nodding and taking a step back, opening it.


    Chance had expected the room to be part of a house, but for some reason, it was literally a building entirely on its own. They all stepped out onto a paved stone path in what looked to be a fairly normal city.


    Houses, ranging from one to two stories and made mostly of gray brick, rose all around them in neat rows. There were a few taller buildings scattered throughout the city, their tops poking over the roofs, and Chance could see walls rising in the distance.


    There wasnt anyone on the street directly in front of them, but Chance could hear the distant sounds of chatter from what sounded like a market.


    Quinn quickly made for the cover of a small, nearby alley. The rest of them followed after her. It wound to the side, but it wasnt exactly the best spot to hide. Chance could still see shes of the street from his spot in the shadows. Quinn led them for several minutes, taking turns confidently and with the ease of someone who had traveled the area many times before.


    Okay, Quinn said, finallying to a stop as the alley let them out into a small, run down street. It was blocked in on either end byrge, bulky buildings. Chance could hear the sounds of conversation and nking metal on ceramicing from within it, but there werent any windows to look through.


    Restaurant? Be guessed.


    Quinn waggled a hand, still keeping her voice low. Dining hall. Nobodyes back here. I used to use it to hide before Nimea got her head chopped off.


    So, what are we up against? Chance asked. He paused for a moment. And is there any chance were going to be able to convince them to do the right thing the proper way?


    By proper, do you mean by talking to them? Quinn raised an eyebrow.


    Chance gave her a sheepish grin. I mean, it worked with Jade.


    Theres some things that talking doesnt solve, Jade said, a note of steel in her voice. Evil of this manner cannot be tolerated  assuming Quinn isnt lying.


    Quinns eyes narrowed in anger. What? Im not


    I never said you were, Jade said. But its my duty to ensure that the justice I carry out is actually proper. I am not a sword for hire. If you havent lied, then I will do everything in my power to ensure that we can help. But, if you have, I will need to assess the situation and make sure that Im acting properly.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce.


    Why does it sound like youre quoting someone? Chance asked.


    Jade reddened and rubbed the back of her neck. Technically, Gibson kind of said it. I just paraphrased a little bit. Was it that obvious?


    A bit stiff, Be said. But Jade is right, Quinn. I dont want to seem doubtful, but Chance is a bit too easy to dupe. No offense, Chance. But you really do try to see the best in everyone.


    Chance grimaced. I dont think I can argue that bit.


    Quinn sighed. She nced out into the street, then hunched back down. Youll have proof when we go to meet some of my friends, but its going to be very difficult to get all of you in. Is anyone good at stealth?


    They all exchanged a nce. Chance scratched his head. I dont know if Id say Im good at stealth per say, but Im pretty damn lucky.


    Theres a big difference between being stealthy and being lucky.


    When I say Im lucky, I mean Im <em>really </em>lucky, Chance said. If were going to take any sort of risk, Im the best one to do it. Why? What are you thinking?


    Quinn pointed down the street and through an alley leading into the more popted road just behind it. One of my friends is in the house over there. She can corroborate my story. Shes not a servant, but shes not much better off.


    Is there anyone else in there? Be asked. If someone spots you walking around, its only a matter of time before the rest of the Brackern sect gets alerted that Nimea didnt return with you and something is wrong.


    There might be, Quinn admitted, chewing her lower lip in worry. Im not sure. There are a few people that can use the Essence of Binding, and they were all part of Nimeas family  the elders of the sect.


    Be scrunched her nose and squinted across the street. All of them? Talk about inbreeding.


    A grin flickered across Quinns face, but she quickly wiped it away. Maybe Chance could just try to enter on his own? Without me. Its not like we never have travelerse through. He could verify things himself that way.


    They fell silent. Somehow, the idea was so simple that it just hadnt struck the rest of them. Chance cleared his throat.


    Im going to pretend we werent going to try toe up with some fancy n when the answer was staring us right in the face. I think that might be the best strategy.


    What about the rest of us, then? Be asked. If Quinn stays hidden, maybe we should


    Jade shook her head. No, its actually better if he goes alone. Itll be less threatening if he pretends to be a lone wanderer from some other sect. Theyll be more concerned with figuring out where hes from than attacking him. As long as he doesnt show any aggression, itll be fine. Besides, from what Ive seen, he can handle himself and well be close.


    Be frowned, a wave of concern passing over her features. She looked back to Quinn. How powerful are the strongest members of the sect? Is it something a group of Knight Rank cultivators could handle?


    Quinn thought for a moment. Im not sure. Ive never seen Naveed  the Sect Head, that is  Ive never seen him fight. Nimea was considered pretty strong amongst the sect, though.


    Okay, Be said. She gave Chance a serious look. You good with this?


    Chance nodded. Yeah. I can handle things, and Ocie can always help me out if things go really south. Youll definitely hear it.


    Be gave him a brief grin and nodded. Okay.


    Quinn turned, nodding for Chance to follow her as she started toward the exit of the alley. Be raised a hand, catching their attention before they could leave.


    Onest thing before the two of you go. What do we do in the inevitable scenario where the two of you get into a fight saving Quinns friend and the entire sectes down on top of us?


    We wont do that, Quinn said. Shes not in any danger. We can just talk.


    I know Chance better than you do, Be said tly. Hes going to try to do something.


    Hey! Chance eximed. I can handle myself. Im not that impulsive.


    Be raised an eyebrow. And if Quinns friend is in any sort of difort or danger?


    Chance cleared his throat. I mean, the logical thing to do would be to help.


    Okay, I see the problem, Quinn admitted, crossing her arms. Fine. We need a n, then. Ill be honest, my n was just to break as many people out as possible and make a run for it.


    Jade leaned against the wall and her brow creased in thought as she tapped her fingers on her thigh. Does everyone here have the Essence of Binding? You said it was just the Sect heads and their family, right? So, if we kill all of them


    Quinns eyes widened. I thought you were the save everyone type?


    Im the deliver justice mercifully but without remorse type, Jade corrected, her eyes shing with anger. And if what youve been saying is correct, then the justice is going to take the form of an execution.

 Chapter 109: Oh Jie

    Chapter 109: Oh Jie


    Its really easy to say we need a n, Chance mused, rubbing his chin. But actually getting one seems considerably harder.


    Theyd been sitting there for the better part of an hour, tossing out suggestions as to how they could go about freeing everyone from the Brackern Sect. And, for all their effort, their best idea was from Be, whose suggestion was to just track down all the Sect elders and kill them in the middle of the night.


    That didnt quite sit right with Chance, and Jade wasnt a fan of it either. Thus, theyd been stuck in an endless debate, unable to actuallynd on a n that they all agreed on. Eventually, Jade put a stop to it.


    This is aplete waste of time, Jade said, crossing her arms. Stop already. Does anyone actually have an idea that doesnt involve either murdering a bunch of people that may or may not be innocent or just doing theplete opposite and waiting until theyre an inch from killing us before we act?


    They all went silent.


    Then how about we just wing it? Jade suggested. Be, youre confident in Chance being really lucky, right?


    Be nodded immediately. Yeah.


    And Chance is too?


    It hasnt let me down yet, Chance said. He considered her words for a moment. Though, Im pretty sure its also pulled me into some less than ideal situations. I think luck might asionally go in both directions.


    And what about you? Jade asked, turning to Quinn. I know you dont have a lot to go off, but are youfortable relying on his chances  pardon the pun?


    Quinn nodded hesitantly. I suppose. I saw him fighting, and I dont know exactly what it was, but he was good. Good enough to hold his own against most of the sect members. We didnt have that many Rank 3s, and Nimea was one of the most promising ones.


    Then well just trust Chance to get into that house safely, Jade said. Hell pick up your friend and try to get them out here so we can speak with them and find out what are next steps are. If things end up going badly, then we do what we need to. Hows that work?


    They all looked at each other. Chance was the first to shrug.


    That works for me.


    If youre fine with it, then I am too, Be said.


    Quinn nodded her agreement. Ill need to go with you across the street to point out where they are, though. Its easier to see from the alley across from us.


    Then lets go, Chance said. Lead the way, Quinn?


    Be careful, Be warned as they headed out of the alley. If something goes wrong, make a lot of noise so we know you need help.


    Will do, Chance said.


    He followed Quinn to the edge of the alley, where they paused for a few seconds. Chance nced at her out of the corner of his eye. He drew on his Essence just enough to feel itsforting warmth within him body.


    Are we waiting for something?


    The right moment to cross, Quinn replied. I dont want to get spotted by someone I know as we walk in.


    There were a fair number of people milling about the street, walking in either direction. Most of them seemedpletely preupied with their own days. Chance looked back to Quinn and put a hand on her shoulder. She nced at him in surprise.


    The best way to get somewhere you dont belong is to pretend like you do, Chance advised. Especially when Im here. Lets just go.


    Quinn let out a curse as Chance stepped into the street, dragging her along behind him. She quickly stiffened and increased her pace to catch up with Chance. They crossed across the road, stepping past several people that didnt even nce in their direction, and arrived at the door.


    See? Chance asked. Quinn just shook her head and stepped into the shadow of the house. Chance followed after her, and they headed deeper into the darkness. Quinn ducked under a window and Chance did the same.


    They wrapped around the side of the house, reaching a stone wall that cut off their path. Quinn pointed up to the houses second floor.


    My friend is named Jie. His room is on the second floor, and hes the groundskeeper for the house. A bit taller than me, pale as a sheet of paper, and bright red hair. Hard to miss.


    Okay, Chance said with a nod. Who owns the house? They might be there, right?


    A man called Drayan. Hes an asshole. Id try to avoid him if you can, but I still dont know how youre going to get inside without anyone noticing. Drayan is high up enough in the sect to have a guard. They wont just let you stroll inside.


    Leave that to me, Chance replied with a smile. Just stay over here and wait for me toe out. It wont take long at all, as long as Jie is where you say he is.


    Quinn didnt look too convinced, but she nodded and Chance walked back to the front door. He called on more of his Essence, then reached up and knocked on the door. Part of him was hoping that Jie would be the one to answer it and hed get <em>really </em>lucky, but evidently that was far too much, even for him.


    A weathered man wearing light leather armor and carrying a sword at his side pulled the door open. His eyes roamed over Chance, clearly not finding anything of interest there as he let out a tired sigh.


    What do you want?


    <em>Two options. The first is that hes a crazy high rank and being a Knight ispletely irrelevant to him. The other, and more likely one, is that hes weaker than Rank 3 and has no idea what Rank I am.</em>


    Chance extended a hand, sending a tendril of gold Essence down his sleeve and into his palm.


    Its a pleasure to meet you, Chance said with the widest smile he could gather. My dad sent me to look around your sect. He said it was good for rtions, or something like that. Im not really interested in that kind of thing, but I chose a house at random to judge the sect off. You dont mind, do you?


    The guards brow furrowed, but the implication that Chance was from another sect was enough to give him pause. Chance had to hide augh as he saw a sh of panic sh across the mans face.


    If Chance was who he said he was, then it would be a very bad look for the sect to refuse entry. But, if he was lying, then he was just letting a random person into Drayans house.


    The guard hesitantly reached up and took Chances hand. If he noticed the mist, he didnt say anything. He just cleared his throat and took a step back.


    Well, I suppose a quick tour wouldnt hurt. Drayan is in his office taking lunch right now. Would you like to speak with him?


    Chance tilted his head to the side, considering the request for a moment. Id love to, but it would be terrible to interrupt him. Maybe after hes done eating?


    As Chance spoke, he stepped past the guard and into the house. The guard closed the door behind him, nodding thoughtfully.


    I suppose thats true, the man agreed. It would be a shame. What sect are you from, young sir?


    Chances third eye opened and he scanned the guards karma. His features tightened imperceptibly. Several threads depicted the man pping people not much younger than Chance, all of whom wore in white clothes that were clearly meant for servants.


    Dancing Cloud, Chance replied. Have you heard of it?


    The guards eyes widened. Of course. I had no idea we had an esteemed young man such as yourself visiting us today. Please forgive the mess.


    Chance resisted the urge tough. The room hed stepped into was immactely cleaned. It wasnt nearly as rich as hed been expecting, but the floor was well swept and the paintings that hung from the walls had clearly been dusted recently.


    Several doors led into other rooms along the hall, but there wasnt a sign of dirt or anything out of ce anywhere.


    It seems like a lovely house, Chance said, walking up to the first door and peering inside. It led into a small room full of crates and barrels. Faint traces of flour and rice were on the ground, but even this room was surprisingly clean.


    Thats just the kitchen supplies. Hardly worth your interest, the guard said, stopping by the doorway. If youe with me, I can take you to the waiting room so you can rx while you wait for Master Drayan to finish his meal.


    But what about this? Chance asked, pointing just behind the door. It looks a bit out of ce. I think you may have rats.


    The guards eyes widened. Rats? We would never. Show me!


    He took a step forward, his head turning on a swivel to look where Chance pointed. He was so focused on the hand that he didnt see Chances other hand as it whipped up, striking him in the side of the head with the hilt of his urumi.


    The mans eyes rolled up in his head and he crumpled to the ground in a heap. Chance looked down at him for a moment, making sure the man was still breathing, then shook his head. The strings of Karma told him that the guard had hit people a lot harder than Chance had just hit him.


    <em>Can give it out but cant take it back. Oh well. Hopefully Drayan isnt too pissed that you let a random kid into his house while you were supposed to be guarding it. </em>


    Chance chuckled to himself and stepped back out of the supply room, closing the door behind him. He called on his Essence and jiggled the handle slightly. On the other side of the door, Chance heard a barrel thump as it tipped over, blocking the door from opening.


    He strode deeper into the house, his Essence pooling at his feet and leaving a glowing trail behind him. Now that he was well and truly inside, it wouldnt matter if he was spotted. What he needed was to get lucky.


    He chose a turn at random, heading down the hall. A door closed as someone entered a room a moment before he walked past it. Chance didnt pause for an instant. The hall hed stepped into led up to a stairwell, and he had no ns of sticking around to see if someone came back out. If that had been Jie, they would have run into each other before the door closed.


    Chance headed up the stairs, arriving in a considerably iner but still well kept hall. He chose a direction at random once more, then strode down the lines of doors. As he walked, one of the handles started to twist.


    Tilting his head to the side, Chance stopped walking.


    <em>Good timing. </em>


    He took a step back as the door opened and a pale man emerged from within it. His white clothes were stained grey and brown from dirt, but his bright red hair stuck out like a wet paintbrush. Chance guessed the man was probably just a few years younger than he was.


    <em>Thats got to be Jie. Lucky me.</em>


    Oh, Im sorry, Jie said, inclining his head respectfully. I didnt see you there. Ill get out of your way.


    On the contrary, Chance said, stepping into the room. Jie took a surprised step back and Chance closed the door behind him. Youre exactly the person Im looking for. Would you be able to answer some questions for me?

 Chapter 110: Confrontation

    Chapter 110: Confrontation


    Shae sat in the hard backed chair in his house, hunched over a map spread out over the table with a bitter expression on his face. His fingers drummed on his knees as he stared nkly. It barely even seemed to matter at this point.


    Damn this job, Shae growled, rising to his feet and kicking the chair back. It hit the ground with a crash, but he didnt even nce back at it. Shae swept the map off the table and gritted his teeth so hard that they hurt. Rank 3 with that sort of support. I was yed for a fool.


    Shae stormed back and forth across the room, fuming. He could always set back off and try to track the boy down again, but whenever he nced at the doorhandle, the Red Hands face flickered in the back of his mind and he pulled back.


    I need them dead, Shae hissed. Both of them.


    Passion is better spent in the field than inside, a cold voice said. Shae stumbled, spinning on his heel. A man stood behind him, his dark hair hanging low over his sullen face. Two purple voids spun where his eyes should have been, devoid of any real emotion.


    Who in damnation are you? Shae barked, jumping back and calling on his Essence. Before he could bring any of it to bear, a powerful wave of force crashed down on the room. Shae grunted as he mmed down to one knee.


    His teeth grit as he pushed back with all the force he could muster. It was all Shae could do to lift his gaze  and that was enough to show him that the intruder wasnt even struggling. He was being toyed with.


    Your resilience would probably be seen as admirable, the man said with a dispassionate sigh. But I cant be bothered to deal with it myself. Are you finished?


    Who are you? Shae repeated, his shoulders trembling with exertion. The world felt like it was closing in around him. The knees of his pants grew damp as dark water started to trickle out of the floorboards.


    You may call me Vex, the man said. You work for me.


    Shaes brow creased. I work for the Shikari council.


    And they work for me, Vex concluded. For the time being, at least. Thus, you too work for me.


    The pressure bearing down on Shae vanished. The amount of resistance hed been forced to put up was so much that, once the restraints were gone, Shaeunched to his feet and nearly tripped over himself. He staggered, catching the table and drawing in a sharp breath of air.


    How do I know?


    I dont care, Vex replied. You arent the only one Ivee to, but you were the closest to catching Chance and Be. Thus, you have information I desire.


    Shae paused. His eyes flicked down to the map that hed thrown from the table. A t smile yed across Vexs face and he nodded to the chair behind Shae. Sit.


    After a moment of consideration, Shae picked the chair back up and sat down. It was clear that Vex was stronger than he was. Considerably stronger. There were only a few people in Gleam that were this powerful, and there were even fewer that he hadnt met at some point or another. For the time being, the smartest course of action would be to hear Vex out.


    What do you want? Shae asked, his voice curt but polite. Showing too much weakness to powerful entities tended to result in death, but pushing back found the exact same result. There was a sweet spot to hit when talking to powerful cultivators, and Shae had been in Gleam for long enough to figure out just where it was.


    A torrent of water rushed up beneath Vex, curling into a stool. Vex sat down on it and propped his foot up on the table, leaning his chin in the palm of his hand. Of everyone tracking Chance and Be, you were the only one to grow close. Why?


    Shae frowned. I dont know. Perhaps nobody else who waspetent took the job.


    Vex snorted. Perhaps. Nheless, you found them once. You can do it again. Where are they now, Shae?


    Shae didnt ask how Vex knew his name. Powerful cultivators tended to know things like that, and asking was sure to him nothing but either a knowing smile or a smirk. He bit back an irritated re.


    They were in the Dancing Cloud sect, as I reported.


    I know what you reported, Vex said. What I want to know is what you didnt.


    Shaes eyes narrowed. You seek Jades whereabouts?


    Do you care?


    No, Shae replied with a shrug. Couldnt care less. Shes a poor Shikari. Some talent, but too hardheaded and ipetent to ever be of use. A criminal by the name of the Red Hand took her into an Ancient Realm, where Chance and Be retreated. I was forced to retreat to escape with my life.


    Vex nodded thoughtfully. Then he tilted his head to the side. Why?


    Why did Lin take her? I havent a clue. Shae shook his head. Whatever the reason, it hardly matters. Shes dead now  that, or he brought her as a gift to Chance. For some reason, the crazed bastard seems to have taken a liking to the little criminal. Theyre cut from the same cloth.


    I doubt that, Vex said, his features darkening in anger. And what of the third child? Yeo?


    I wasnt going after him. There are others. Ask one of them.


    s, I cannot raise the dead. That power is beyond even me. For some reason, Vex seemed to take amusement from that statement. He let out a cold chuckle, then yawned. Every single cultivator that has sought out Yeo has died. Most of them have been found cut to pieces.


    Despite himself, Shaes eyes widened. Vex clearly knew just about everything the Shikari were doing, so it was very likely that he was actually somehow part of the council. And, even if he wasnt, arguing would only result in death. Truly? But hes only a Knight.


    Chance and Be were only Squires when they left, Vex pointed out. Now, I suspect none of them are. Forget Yeo for the time being. Someone aids him. Chance, on the other hand, evades us on his own.


    Not on his own, Shae protested. He had


    I do not care about what some rogue criminal is doing, Vex roared, fury washing across his features in an instant as he rose from his chair, a wave of Essence pouring off him and throwing Shae from his chair and into the wall.


    Shae slid down the wall with a groan of pain. As quickly as the anger had arrived, Vexs face returned to its in state and he sat back down. Shae pulled himself upright, his heart mming in his chest, but Vex said nothing. He just looked at the fallen chair.


    <em>This cultivator ispletely and utterly insane. He might be even more gone than the Red Hand. </em>


    Shae strode back over to his chair, righting it and sitting back down. Vex smiled.


    Youre much better than the other cultivators Ive been working with as ofte. Very nice.


    Thank you. I try to remain professional.


    <em>Unlike you.</em>


    You have yet to answer my first question, Vex said, intecing his fingers. Why have you not gone back for them?


    Because I have no clue where they are, Shae spat. Chance is not an idiot. I have men stationed in the Dancing Cloud sect in case he returns there, but I know he will not. And, for some reason, I cannot seem to find him again. He evades me once more.


    Perhaps he is still in the Ancient Realm.


    Even if he is, I should be able to track him down, Shae said with a shake of his head. Something obscures me. Jade is beyond me as well. I tried seeking her out as soon as I discovered that I was unable to locate Chance.


    Dead, perhaps?


    Its possible, Shae said with an uninterested shrug. She was not the smartest.


    The young seldom are, Vex said with a knowing nod. And what of this Red Hand? Have you tried tracking him?


    Shae paled. He nced to the side and shook his head. No. I do not wish to greet my death so early. I know my limits. If I go after him, then I will die. He is far stronger than our records indicate. I have already updated the status for his bounty, but we will need a Duke ranked cultivator to handle him.


    Vexs features tightened in anger. For a moment, Shae feared that he was about to get hammered with another wave of Essence. Instead, Vex let out a slow hiss and let himself rx once more.


    I see, Vex said.


    Relief filled Shae, but Vex wasnt finished.


    I see that every single Shikari is an ipetent fool, Vex spat as he rose from his chair. You cower in the safety of your room, whining at your failure but refusing to take steps to solve it. The boy and that damnable girl still walk around, happy as can be, while dozens of so-called Shikari stumble and fail at every opportunity, getting killed in droves andpletely failing to reach their targets. Am I correct?


    Shae didnt respond. Answering that kind of question would almost certainly end with Vex putting a fist through his head. The crazed cultivator drew a slow breath and bared his teeth as he let it out.


    No more of this game, Vex said. You have a manner to track the Red Hand?


    Yes, but


    Then I will go with you, Vex said. I tire of this game, and our time runs thin. I will not permit this tost any longer. I trust you feel I am strong enough to handle this cultivator you fear?


    <em>I think its more likely that Ill be killed on the trip over there. </em>


    Despite his thoughts, all Shae could do was nod. There was no refusing someone of Vexs strength.


    I will simply have to report our departure, Shae said.


    To his surprise, Vex nodded. Go. I will find you once you leave the city. Be prepared to hunt.


    And with that, Vex copsed into a puddle of ck water and sank through the floorboards, vanishing and leaving Shae alone in the room. For several seconds, Shae didnt dare to move.


    Then he slowly rose to his feet with a grimace, pushing the chair back. If Vex didnt care that he was reporting the task, then Vex almost certainly hadnt been lying. Shae wasnt sure if that was a good thing or not, though.


    But, even with his misgivings, a cold smile tugged at the corner of Shaes lips. If he could manage to survive traveling with Vex, then the Red Hands reign would be over. Even he wasnt strong enough to handle Vex  and Chance would fall soon after, when the Red Hand revealed the boys location.


    <em>Im sure hes got something to do with how Chance and Be are hiding. Youll regret leaving me alive, Lin.</em>


    Shae strode out of his room, heading for the nearest Shikari Base to report his trip. For the level of danger the mission he was about to embark on held, his features were far too excited. He was greatly anticipating the look on the Red Hands face when Vex arrived at his side.

 Chapter 111: Lucky me

    Chapter 111: Lucky me


    Who are you? Jie took a step back, his eyes darting over Chances shoulder nervously.


    A friend of Quinns, Chance replied.


    Jies features froze as Chance mentioned Quinns name. His hands clenched at his sides and he swallowed.


    Does Drayan know youre here?


    Nope. Is that a problem?


    Jie quickly took a step back into the room, making room for Chance to enter. Once he stepped inside, Jie reached past him and closed the door. Judging by its interior, they were in an unused guest room.


    A soft bed sat near a sparkling window, and a wooden dresser sat beside a desk on the opposite side of the room to the bed. Jie watched Chance with a distraught expression on his face.


    Shes dead, isnt she?


    No, actually.


    Jies eyes widened. Truly? I am honored that she and Nimea saw fit to send someone to notify me of their return. I had no idea they had returned. I am not worthy of this honor. But why are you here?


    Sorry, Chance said. I wasnt totally clear. Nimea didnt make it. Only Quinn did. She sent us here to speak with you.


    Jie took a moment to process Chances words. Then, to Chances surprise, Jies features darkened. I am relieved to hear Quinn has survived, but that means she has left the Ancient Realm and is here, yes? Then you  and she  must leave. You are not safe.


    Thats why Im here to speak with you, Chance said, holding his hands up in a cating gesture. Are you being mistreated or kept here against your will?


    Jie hurried over to the window, pulling the curtains shut. He turned back to Chance and pressed his lips together before giving a sharp nod. Yes. The Brackern Sect is a wretched ce. Please, take Quinn and get her out of here. If Nimea is dead, then she has an opportunity to escape. The rest of us are not so lucky.


    You cant leave? Chance asked, though he suspected he already knew the reason why.


    The elders of the Brackern Sect pass down their cultivation technique of the Essence of Binding. We do not even have time to speak. Please. Trust me. Take Quinn and leave. I dont


    Someone knocked on the door. Jie stiffened, his eyes going wide. He urgently gestured for Chance to take cover, holding a finger to his lips.


    The chef needs ess to the cer, you imbecile, called a man. His voice sounded roughly middle aged, with a slight aristocratic lilt to it. Did you lock it again? Nobody can get in.


    Chance rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. Jie nced from Chance to the door, then urgently gestured for Chance to move. Please ept my forgiveness, Master Earn. I will head to the cer post haste, as soon as I have finished cleaning


    Now, the voice snapped. Open the door, Jie."


    Jies fingers twitched and his arms suddenly snapped down to his sides. He woodenly reached for the door, twisting the handle and pulling it open. A tall man stood on the other end, d in soft yellow clothes. He had a well-maintained goatee and bushy ck eyebrows  neither of which did much to cover the scowl on his face.


    Master Earn, I presume? Chance asked, inclining his head slightly as the man gaped at him.


    Who in the devils are you? Earn demanded, taking a shocked step back and raising his hands.


    A visitor from the Dancing Cloud sect, Chance replied with a soft smile. He inclined his head in a show of respect. I hope I havent been intruding too much. I asked your servant to show me around this beautiful mansion. It is almost asrge as my fathers.


    Earns mouth worked as he stared at Chance, trying to make sense of the sight before him. Chance had absolutely no ns of letting the man get his mental feet out from under him. He stepped out of the room, gently pushing past Jie, and extended a hand.


    My name is Chance. Its a pleasure to meet you. Jie spoke very highly of you and Master Drayan.


    Chances Gate warmed as he pulled on the Essence within it. Golden mist gathered on the floor near his feet, but Earns eyes were so focused on his face that he didnt even notice. Takenpletely off guard, he slowly reached out and shook Chances hand.


    I was unaware that anyone was visiting, Earn said suspiciously, his gaze drifting over to Jie, who stood horrorstruck behind Chance. I am pleased to hear that Jie spoke well of us, though.


    The fault is mine. I was so impatient to see more of this beautiful sect that I insisted he show me around without any wait, Chance said. He let out a gentleugh. I am unused to waiting, Master Earn.


    <em>Talking like this feels so disgusting, but I feel like this is what theyd expect some rich brat from a big sect to talk like, right?</em>


    Chance had no idea if it was his acting or just sheer surprise paired together with hisplete confidence, but whatever it was, it worked. Earn nodded, letting a flicker of a smile drift across his lips.


    As am I, Master Chance. You said you were from the Dancing Cloud sect, yes? They are a noble one, though we have not had the blessing to work together in the past. What purpose has brought you to the Brackern sect?


    Business, Chance replied, crossing his hands behind his back. I had heard that your sect has some unique abilities.


    Chance repressed his disgusted grimace as he spoke, but a sly smile crossed over Earns features.


    Ah, yes. I should have guessed from the start. Earn chuckled and pped Chance on the shoulder. A young man of your age should have great want of our services. Even if our goods may not be worthy of being a proper consort, there is always room for concubines. No sect will provide you with escorts as obedient as ours.


    Chances third eye snapped open, practically of its own volition. Strands of Karma spun out from Earn. Visions yed within each line of glowing light  and what Chance saw within them filled him with revulsion.


    The Essence within Chance swirled in response to his fury. When Chance reflected back on it, he would have almost been tempted to say that it acted of its own ord  but, deep down, he knew it didnt.


    His Essence didnt do anything that he didnt want it to. There was no external factor that controlled him in any way. Every action he took was his own, deliberate and intentional without even the slightest ounce of hesitation.


    The swirling ball of power that rested beside his Gate, right in the center of his sr plexus, erupted with power. Gold energy washed out from Chance, lighting the hallway up like a miniature sun had formed within it.


    Earn flinched back, his hands rising up to cover his eyes as he cried out in surprise. Golden mist formed into a hand on Chances back, and it drove forth, open palmed, into Earns head.


    The man didnt even get time to be properly surprised. The palm mmed him into the wall, pulverizing his body and shattering the stone behind it with a massive crash. What remained of his body slipped down and pitched to the ground, blood pouring out of it and pooling at Chances feet.


    Chance dismissed his Essence, drawing it back within himself. He looked down at Earns corpse, barely able to contain the disgust in his soul. When it hade to Nimea, his Karma had warned him that she wasnt his to kill, and that it wasnt his role to be the judge, jury, and executioner.


    Either it hadnt warned him off this time, or his emotions had been so strong that hedpletely dismissed the warning. Chance wasnt sure which, and he found that he didnt care. There was no universe that would have been made better by leaving the creature before him alive.


    Chance heard Jie shift behind him and turned as he stepped out of the room. Jie stared down at Earn in disbelief, then slowly raised his gaze to Chance.


    I probably shouldnt have done that, Chance admitted. I can see the actions of men, and he was unworthy of the air he breathed. Im not sure if it was my ce to kill him, but I did it anyway.


    Jie spat on Earns corpse.


    <em>I take it Jie isnt all that torn up about this, then. </em>


    You are stronger than I had thought, Jie said, grabbing Chance by the arm. But we must move quickly. Master Drayan will have almost certainly heard that, and he is a powerful cultivator. You must depart immediately.


    Jie dragged Chance down the hall and up to a small door. He worked it open, then pulled Chance inside a much smaller, thinner hallway. It was much darker than the rest of the house, with only a few scattered, dirty windows for light.


    This is a pathway for the servants, Jie said, closing the door behind them. It will take you into the kitchen, and you should be able to escape through the back of the house.


    Wait. Where are all the others? Chance asked. The people that the Brackern sect is controlling.


    Forget about us, Jie snapped, dragging Chance deeper into the dimly lit hall. If Quinn can escape, then I would consider this a good oue. Earn was far from the strongest fighter the Brackern sect has, and they will be on guard now. You will not be able to do that again.


    They hurried down a winding stairwell and continued through another path, arriving at a door. Jie pressed his ear to it, then quickly pulled it open and ushered Chance out into a hot, smoke filled kitchen.


    Nobody even gave them a second nce as they strode through it and toward a door in the back of the room.


    I dont think Quinn will leave without you, Chance said. And Im not leaving anyone here. This is wrong.


    Wrong or right do not matter. Quinn will survive, Jie said, grabbing the door and pulling it open. He pushed Chance out into an alleyway  one on the other side of the building that Quinn had brought him to, if Chance recalled itsyout correctly  and gestured urgently. Leave. If you have an army, then bring them. One cultivator will not be able to stop an entire sect. Please give Quinn my best wishes and ensure that she never returns here.


    Chance opened his mouth to refuse and urge Jie to change his mind, but his foot caught on a protruding brick. He stumbled, taking several quick steps to right himself, and a sword plummeted from the sky, mming into the ground where hed been standing.


    Golden mist erupted around Chance and he shoved Jie behind him as a man dropped from the second floor of the house, mming to the alleyway with enough force to crack the stone beneath him.


    His bright yellow and white robes hugged his heavily muscled body, and his head was shaved perfectly smooth. The man grabbed the sword, sliding it free from the ground as he bared his teeth in a furious, hungry smile.


    I had thought this foolish behavior had already been beaten out of you, Jie.


    Master Drayan, Jie said, his words stiff with terror.


    Ah, Chance said, flexing his fingers. His urumi leapt into his hand, humming faintly with energy as he watched Drayan. So youre Drayan. I was just about to go looking for you. Lucky me.

 Chapter 112: Skill issue

    Chapter 112: Skill issue


    And who would you be? Drayan asked, pulling his de from the ground and pointing it at Chance. We dont often get Rank Three cultivatorsing through our small sect, and even less often are they foolish enough to try to attack.


    Oh. You must be misunderstanding, Chance said with augh.


    Going to try to talk your way out of it? Amusing, but pointless, Drayan said. His gaze flicked to Jie, who took a step back. Drayan snapped the fingers of his free hand. Stop moving.


    Jie froze in ce.


    Tell me, then, Drayan said with a cold smile. Since youre so willing to talk, Ill let you get a fewst words out before I Bind you. I felt you snuff the life of my subordinate out. If that wasnt an attack, what was it?


    Ah. Thats an easy mistake to make, Chance said. I understand. I didnt attack him, though. I executed him. He was a terrible person.


    The ground beneath Drayans feet from the force of his lunge. He thrust his sword at Chances chest. Chance drew on his Essence, letting it flow through him, and let his body rx. Heughed as he leaned back and the de passed harmlessly over his nose.


    Drayan jerked the de down and Chance twisted to the side, bringing the hilt of his urumi whipping up into Drayans chin. The man grunted, staggering back. Hed been taken by surprise, but it didnt look like the blow had even injured him.


    Chances urumi scraped along the walls of the alley as he flicked it out. It curved toward Drayan, who ducked to the side and let the segmented de whistle over his head. He jerked his hand forward and Jie leapt at Chances back.


    Spinning to the side, Chance gave Jie a gentle shove and stuck his foot out. Jie tripped over it, hitting the ground with a grunt. Stillughing, Chance cartwheeled forward, dropping to the ground as Drayan tried to sever his head from his body, then drove his shoulder up into therger mans stomach. Drayan grunted, but he didnt budge. It was like striking a brick wall.


    You think thats going to do anything to a Rank Four, boy? Drayan let out a snort ofughter as his hand swept through the air, his fingers wed as he reached for Chance.


    <em>If he gets his hands on me, itll be bad. I dont know how he establishes the usage of that Binding magic, but Id bet it requires him to grab onto me. </em>


    Chance vaulted backward and poured Essence into his urumi. Its des glittered a warm gold as he flicked it out once more. Drayan shifted his footing and let the des whistle past him, but Chance yanked them back right as Drayan started to advance.


    The des nearly carved into Drayans neck, but he managed to bring his sword up just in time to block it. Metal screeched against metal and Chance yanked his urumi back into its sword-form, twirling and sending it flying out once more.


    Drayan grunted, forced back. Despite his words, the glowing des of the urumi were clearly more than enough to make him pause. Chance pressed on that advantage, keeping a flurry of spinning blows pressing down on the man.


    <em>A tight alleyway isnt the best spot to use an urumi, but Ive got so much practice fighting against Soothounds in the Old City that its nowhere near as problematic as it should be. </em>


    Jie leapt at Chances feet, controlled by Drayans Binding Essence, but it was like trying to catch an oiled fish. Chance slithered out of his grasp, then pirouetted right past Drayan, avoiding a sword sh and bringing his urumi down on the mans back.


    The des scraped against Drayans skin, ripping through his clothes and carving a line of blood across his side. Drayan spun toward Chance with a roar and lunged, thrusting his sword. Chance mmed the hilt of his urumi into the de, knocking it out of its path before whipping his foot up into the mans chin.


    Drayan ignored the blow and reached out to grab Chance by the neck. Chance shed him a smile as he stumbled drunkenly, slipping right out of the mans grip before it could close. Chances third eye burned with power as he reached out and grabbed one of the strands of Karma running out of Drayan.


    A golden de formed in the air behind Drayans back and, before he could react, it plunged into his back. Drayan let out a strangled hiss of pain, but the blow didnt go as deep as Chance had been hoping it would.


    Infuriating little mosquito, Drayan snarled. He flicked his fingers, and a brick ripped out of the wall. Chance leaned to the side and the brick hurtled past his head, shattering against the wall of the building.


    The ground beneath him rumbled, the stones rippling as the entire alleyway came awake. A cold smile stretched across Drayans lips and he syed the fingers of his free hand out, using the other to point his sword at Chance.


    People arent the only thing that my Essence can control.


    Ocie, Chance said, his smile not budging for an instant. Would you correct his misconception?


    What are you


    A stone hand erupted from the ground behind Drayan, closing around him with a loud crunch. Chance charged it, thrusting his urumi for a gap between the fingers. The hand rippled, and Chance stumbled over a rock.


    As he tripped, the hand exploded. Shards of stone tore across the alley and Drayan dropped back to the ground, bruised and bleeding slightly. A spike jutted out of the ground, but he smashed it to the side with a fist, shattering the rock.


    Drayan drove his de into the ground and shoved both of his hands outward, as if he were pushing against two invisible walls. A sphere of force washed out from him, and the alleyway froze.


    The stones beneath him trembled as Ocie tried to control them, but Drayans control was enough to keep even the city out. Hed probably infused the area with his Essence, making it far harder for anyone else to ess.


    Is that your finishing move? Drayan asked with a cackle. This is my house. I will add you and whatever strange Essence you wield to my collection, boy.


    Jie jerked upright, his arms hanging at his sides limply. The walls trembled and rose up around Chance, des forming in the rock and rising into the air above him.


    Chances brow furrowed. If Jie and the des attacked at the same time, something told him that Drayan wouldnt be trying to make sure that Jie didnt get hurt in the process. He shook his head in disappointment, then reached into the center of his chest.


    <em>No more ying around. </em>


    Brilliant golden light erupted around Chance, and mist slithered across the ground, winding around both Jie and Drayan. It failed to push through Drayans defenses, but it slipped right into Jies skin without resistance.


    Drayan jerked his hands down. The jagged stones thrust down at Chance and Jie leapt forward, trying to pin Chance down within the hail. Chance swayed to the side, letting the hail pelt to the ground all around him.


    The rocks smashed into each other as they grew near both him and Jie, shattering and raining harmless dust instead of tearing through skin. Drayans eye twitched in fury and he dove back as Chances urumi unfurled to its full length, scraping across the wall beside him.


    How? Drayan demanded.


    Guess you dont have as much control as you thought, Chance replied, staggering to the side as a spike erupted from the ground. Jie lurched toward him and Chance redirected him to the side, flicking his urumi and yanking the des back.


    They caught Drayan on the arm as they retracted and he hissed in pain. The ground bucked beneath Chances feet, but he was already moving. The golden light pouring out of him solidified and formed into an arm.


    Drayans eyes only had an instant to widen in surprise before the open palm mmed into his chest with enough force tounch him from the alley like a rocket. Drayan sailed through the air and flew into the street, hitting it with a grunt and sliding several feet.


    He rolled to the side as a spike erupted from the ground, nearly piercing through his chest. Chancesughter rang out as he sprinted for Drayan, bobbing and weaving as the city came alive around him, trying to rip him to shreds.


    Drayan snapped his fingers. His sword, which was still embedded in the alley behind Chance, suddenly leapt into the air and flew toward him, hilt first, with blinding speed. Chance twisted to the side, but the sword moved so fast that he couldntpletely avoid it.


    It cut a deep line across his chest and side as he spun, and the de mmed back into Drayans hands.


    Bands of ice-cold energy enveloped Chance, and he stiffened. He jerked at his limbs, trying to move, but it was like hed been encased within a rock. Drayans smile grew as he ran a finger along his de.


    What was it you said? Guess you dont have as much control as you thought, Drayan cackled. Wee to the Brackern sect, boy.


    Chance drew deeply on his Essence. He felt it flow through his limbs, storming within him, as Drayan took a step closer. One of his fingers twitched. Drayans eyes narrowed and he redoubled the pressure bearing down on Chance.


    Essence shed in the streets violently, swirling around both of them like a storm. But, even as hard as Chance fought, Drayan was a Rank higher than him. The man simply had more Essence to work with.


    Millimeter by millimeter, Chances strength started to erode. Drayans Essence wound tighter around him, iming more control and pushing Chances power away. But, despite all that, the grin never left Chances lips.


    What are you smiling about? Drayan snarled.


    Drawing on all the Essence he could muster, Chance ripped a single eyelid out of Drayans control.


    Then he winked.


    Drayan only had an instant to ponder what the gesture meant before Bes fist crashed into the back of his head. A thick wall of translucent blue crystal erupted from the ground directly in front of Drayan, even as the loud crack of her knuckles connecting with his skull rang out.


    His head snapped forward, mming into the crystal. A vibrant ringing note rang out from the crystal as it vibrated with the force of the blow. Blood sttered across sit as Drayans nose broke.


    Be didnt give him time to react. Crystal encased her arm as she reared back and brought it forward once more, her eyes as cold as the crystal surrounding her.


    The ringing note shattered.


    Since arriving at Gleam, Chance had seen people and monsters die in a multitude of ways. Eaten, ripped to death, cut apart  none of them had ever looked like particrly inviting ways to die.


    But, in all that time, hed never seen someone do a perfect recreation of a grape in a blender. Drayans head vanished in a spray of blood and gore, and the crystal shredded through his body as it broke, fragments of it spinning through the air and reflecting the sunlight.


    The force of the blow sent Drayans body hurtling through the crystal wall, ragdolling as it tumbled down the street. It slid to a stop right at the front of his mansion, then slumped down.


    Control returned to Chances body and he straightened.


    Thanks, Chance said. I wasnt ready for how fast he could Bind me. I thought it would be a lot harder. Good surprise attack, though. That wouldnt have gone nearly as well if you hadnt caught him off guard.


    Dont worry about it. We need to get out of here, Be said, nodding to the alleyway. It wont be long before reinforcements arrive.


    Chance blinked. The street had emptied during their fight, but he hadnt even realized because of how focused hed been on Drayan. He turned, running over to Jie and helping the boy to his feet before sprinting back over to Be, joining her as they ran back into the darkness of the alleys.

 Chapter 113: Tension

    Chapter 113: Tension


    Are you all insane? Jie rasped as they sprinted. Were all going to


    His words caught in his throat as he spotted Quinn standing beside Jade, a worried expression on her face. He skidded to a stop, stumbling and nearly tripping over his own feet. Quinn ran forward, grabbing Jie and pulling him into a tight hug.


    Jie stiffened for a moment, then let his shoulders slump and returned the gesture. They only held it for a moment before Quinn stepped back, holding Jie at arms length.


    Im sorry. I should have helped fight, but


    You would have just gotten in the way, Be said. I havent fought together with you before. It wasnt the time  and this isnt either. We need to move. Is there somewhere safe we can hide? You can talk there.


    Quinn looked to Jie. He paused for a moment, then gave them a sharp nod. Yes. Theres an abandoned house that I and some of the others use at night when we need to be left alone. Follow me.


    Jie took off and the rest of them sprinted after them. They shot through the dark alleys, even as shouts started to rise up from the street as the Brackern Sects reinforcements arrived, only to find one of their sect elders dead on the street.


    Chance could help but feel a little abashed about the entire performance. It was supposed to be a quick talk and a stealthy escape, not a giant fight that called the entire sect down on them. Still, he couldnt think of a single thing he would have changed. The two men hed killed had deserved it.


    His words to Nimea floated through his mind as they ran. Chance had said that he didnt have the right to choose who lived and died, but then hed gone and killed one man with a surprise attack, then aided in killing a second.


    It wasnt the first time hed thought about it, but the thoughts were growing more prominent with every fight he had. Self defense was one thing, but he was actively hunting people down now.


    For an instant, Chance felt as if he could feel Yamishs gaze on his back.


    <em>I wonder if this is what happened to Yamish. He cultivates Bnce, but maybe at one point, he was trying to cultivate Good Karma as well at the start. But thats not the same. He was actively working to keep bnce with good and evil acts. Im doing the right thing. </em>


    <em>or am I just deluded?</em>


    That thought didnt sit too well with Chance, but it didnt change the visions hed seen in Drayan and Earns Karma. No, there was no doubt in his mind that theyd deserved death. He was just the instrument the universe had chosen to deliver their Karma.


    Something warmed deep within Chances chest, but he didnt have time to properly look at it while they were running. Hed take a lookter, once they were safer. Rtively safer, at least.


    Jie led them through alley after alley, weaving through them with the expert skill of a man who had made this particr trip hundreds of times before. The shouts of the guards soon faded into the distance as they traveled deep into the sect.


    Their rushed pace slowed as the alleys started to erode and the age of the buildings increased significantly. Chance could practically feel the average cost of living drop as they continued on, stepping over molding food tossed into the alley days or weeks ago from the streets.


    Even the streets outside of the shadows were less populous and darker. The glimpses Chance caught through the alleys showed run down shops and abandoned houses, their materials old and often starting to copse.


    Here, Jie said as they arrived at a crumbling two story building. The top floor hadpletely given away, and rubble littered the alleyway around them. He stepped through the door, which was already cracked open. Watch your head when you step in. Your foot too.


    Quinn slipped inside and Chance followed after her. His foot slipped slightly as he ducked inside, saving him from smacking his forehead against a jutting rock, and he staggered over a hole in the ground.


    The room was small, with a tiny old bed stuffed into the corner and a stairwell leading up to the second floor. The rest of it had been done in by fallen rubble, and even the stairwell led to nothing, as a big section of the wall had fallen right on top of it, blocking the path off.


    Jie stared at Chance. I told you to be careful.


    I was, Chance replied, turning as Be stepped inside. Her forehead rippled with crystalline Essence as she avoided the hole in the ground  and walked straight into the brick. It cracked, snapping in half. Be didnt even blink.


    Right, Jie muttered under his breath. Cultivators.


    Jade was thest of them to enter. They all piled into the corner of the room and sat down, finally taking a few moments to gather their breath and think.


    I cant believe you survived, Jie said. His eyes were locked onto Quinn as if the rest of them werent even there. When Nimea took you into the Ancient Realm, I thought


    I did too, Quinn said. She swallowed heavily and nced at Chance. I should have been. Nimea got herself killed by some crazy cultivator. That doesnt matter now, though. We need to get everyone else out of here.


    Jie looked down at his hands. He turned them over, shaking his head in disbelief. All these years, and you just killed Drayan on a whim. I cant believe it. Im actually free.


    He squeezed his eyes shut and turned away, wiping a sleeve across his face and clearing his throat. Jie shook his head. It doesnt matter, though. All of you need to leave. Youre strong enough to get out of here. If you stay


    Shut up, Jie, Quinn said, her words nowhere near as harsh as their meaning. Im going to free the Brackern sect. All of it.


    As are we, Jade said, setting her jaw. Chance was supposed to confirm with you if the Brackern sect was keeping ves, but I think this is confirmation enough.


    You cant take on an entire sect, Jie said with a firm shake of his head. I can never repay what youve done for me  and Quinn. But it took two of you to kill Drayan, and hes not the strongest elder in the sect. Theyll be on their guards now.


    What are we supposed to do? Quinn pounded a fist into her thigh. I wont leave anyone like this, Jie. Not you. Not them. We actually have help! Three real cultivators. If we work together, we have a chance.


    Jie let out a heavy sigh. Or youll just get killed. Youre free, Quinn. Im honored that you returned for me, but


    Bes hand fell on Jies shoulder. He twitched, jerking to stare up at her. A blue dome rippled out of Bes shoulders, passing through him and solidifying around them. Quinns eyes widened and she shot to her feet, nearly hitting her head on the stone above them.


    Whats she doing?


    Dont worry, Chance said. Be wouldnt hurt anyone.


    She would, however, share some choice words. Chance couldnt hear any of what Be said through the dome, but he could see Be furiously gesturing and pointing as she spoke. Jie shrunk back from her, his face going pale, and nodded his understanding.


    Be snapped her fingers and the dome dropped. All of them stared at her.


    What? Be asked.


    Nothing, Quinn said, quickly averting her eyes. Chance didnt me her. If he didnt know Be better, he probably would have been terrified himself.


    <em>Now that I think about it, Bes situation wasnt all that different from theirs. She wasnt a ve, but if she did anything that Vex disapproved of, he would either hurt her or the people around her. </em>


    Lets get back on topic, Be said. Exactly how many sect elders are we up against, and how strong are they?


    Quinn nced at Jie, but he didnt offer up any more protests. She pursed her lips in thought.


    There are six of them. Five now that Drayan is dead. Arlen, a Rank Four. Rial, a Rank Five. Timone, a Rank Five. Vernan, a Rank Six. And Naveed, who is at least a Rank Six. Ive never seen him fight, but as I mentioned before, hes the head of the sect. I dont think we can directly fight them unless any of you are hiding something really powerful.


    Chance and Be exchanged a nce. They both still had the artifacts theyd taken out of the Ancient Realm, but they had absolutely no idea what they did yet. And, no matter what they were, Chance doubted they were going to sway the scales nearly enough to let a group of Rank Threes challenge the elders of a sect.


    Nobody spoke for several seconds.


    We might be a little bit outmatched, Jade admitted. But that doesnt mean we can stop. If we can pick them off one by one, then we have a chance.


    Against a Rank Four, sure, Chance agreed. But a Rank Five? Or a Six? I dont know about that. Even if were using Wards to iste them one by one, I dont think we can handle someone that much stronger than we are in a direct fight.


    So this whole argument was for nothing? Jie asked.


    No, Be said with a shake of her head. Just because we cant challenge them directly doesnt mean we cant find a way to get people out of their grasp somehow.


    Well, we arent doing anything today, Quinn said, chewing her lower lip. After breaking Jie out, the whole sect is going to be on guard.


    As good a time as any to work on figuring out a n, Be agreed. Whats the likelihood that anyone finds us here?


    Ive never seen anyonee here before, but Ive also never seen a sect elder get killed, Jie said. He shrugged. Ive got no idea, but theres absolutely no way were going to get out of the city right now. Were probably safer here than anywhere else.


    Then I propose we take the rest of the day to recuperate, Be said. I havent had proper sleep in a while, and I know Chance hasnt either. Id imagine its not much different for Quinn at that matter. Why dont we rest for the next few hours, then reconvene at night and see if anyones thought of something useful?


    Nobody voiced any issue with that.


    Im going to try to clear a little area upstairs, Be said. Thatll make it less packed down here.


    Ill guard the door. We can swap off, Jade offered.


    Chance followed Be up the stairs, stopping before the fallen section of wall. Bes body rippled as her Essence activated and she dug her fingers into the stone, lifting it with a grunt. She pushed it back slowly, taking care not to make too much noise. Chance tried not to stare too hard when Be literally lifted the stone off the ground with one hand, clearing the stairwell in one move.


    She stepped out onto the top floor, carefully setting the stone to the side. Chance poked his head over her shoulder. The top floor even smaller than the bottom floor, as the majority of it had caved in. It was basically just a small nook with a roof and a stairwell.


    Be walked over to the corner and sat down against the wall. Chance flopped down beside her.


    Well, Be said, drawing the word out and keeping her voice low. That could have gone better.


    Could have gone worse.


    She let out a softugh. Always optimistic. I guess youre right.


    Maybe we should take your own advice and just rest for a little, Chance suggested. We can figure out what well do about thister. I dont know about you, but Im exhausted.


    Yeah, Be muttered.


    Neither of them spoke for a few moments. Be shifted, leaning to rest her head on Chances shoulder. Chance froze, then let the tension seep out of his body and rested his own head against Bes.


    Of all the ways he could have imagined taking a break to get some rest, this certainly wasnt one hedin about.

 Chapter 114: Busy

    Chapter 114: Busy


    Chance didnt want to risk moving, and it wasnt because of the Brackern sect cultivators searching for them. It had been a few hours since hedst heard them moving through the streets in the distance.


    Bes body was pressed up against his, and he could feel every breath she took. Shed fallen asleep at some point, but Chance hadnt quite been able to do the same. Hed settled for meditating instead, but he found that his focus was split enough that he wasnt getting all that much aplished.


    In the end, Chance just sat there, and he didnt mind it one bit. The hours ticked on as his mind drifted. There was so much piling up on their tes. The Shikari were still after them, Lin had a concerning obsession with him, Vex was almost certainly still after Be, Chance had no idea how Yeo was doing, and now there was an entire sect hunting them as well.


    Chances Essence swirled in his chest in response to his worries. Deep within his mind, the vision of the massive gold being pulled Chances attention. Chance resisted for a moment out of surprise, but then let his body rx and sank down within himself.


    The world bled away, and Chance found himself sitting cross legged on a soft red mat that was far toorge for his body. All around him, simr mats covered the floor, but not a single one of them was upied.


    It was the scene where hed had his vision. The beautiful walls of the iprehensibly massive auditorium stretched out in every direction around him, barely visible in the distance. The murals seemed to shift, bing harder to view the more Chance tried to study them.


    Chance raised his eyes to the sky, expecting to find the enormous gold form staring down at him, but instead found nothing but clouds. Surprised, he lowered his gaze.


    Sitting before him on a soft mat was the gold-skinned man, but he was nothing like what he had been before. Instead of a massive, eight armed giant, the man was just a little taller than Chance.


    Even though his face was still featureless, Chance could feel the warmth of a smile washing over him. The man only had two arms, and they rested palm up in a position of rxation in hisp. He radiated peace and rxation, with just a hint of childish joy.


    Chances worries crumbled like a sandcastle before a tsunami. They were washed away into the endless sea of the Karmic being before him, forgotten for the time being. Energy started to form in Chances hands.


    He looked down as arge ball of unruly golden yarn the size of arge beach ball materialized in hisp. Chance nced up at the being in confusion.


    Hello? Chance asked, wincing as his words echoed through the silence like a gunshot.


    The golden being didnt seem to mind. He just inclined his head in greeting.


    <em>Im interacting with it? How is this possible? I thought it was just a vision!</em>


    You house great worries, the man said. He had no mouth with which to speak, but his words echoed out all the same. They were so soft that the hall didnt seem to notice them, and they passed without echo.


    Chance swallowed, then nodded. A lot is resting on us. People need my help.


    There are always those in need of help. The universe is in an eternal cycle of good and evil. Yin and Yang must always exist.


    The mans words sounded eerily simr to Yamish, and Chance immediately started to frown. Before he could even speak, a gentleugh slipped out from the man before him.


    That does not mean you must perpetrate it. We exist in spite of the universe, not at its whim, the being said. The air behind him rippled and the hazy images of six arms swam through the air behind the man, forming into a perfect circle before fading away once more. But in order to challenge the universe, you must understand it.


    Im not sure I follow, Chance admitted. Youre saying that I need to fight the universe?


    You are against the universe, yet the universe is part of you and you are part of it. You cannot fight yourself.


    Then what am I supposed to do?


    The being shrugged. Chance burst intoughter. Something about seeing the immensely powerful existence before him give a simple shrug in return to his question was just hrious.


    It is not my ce to tell you what to do. I am simply a small sliver of a greater consciousness that has been gifted to you. Karma is a tangled web. Though you can bring forth its power, the only one whose Karma you truly control is your own.


    Chances brow furrowed as he tried to decipher what the being was saying. The words made sense, of course, but there was a difference between understanding the words and actually figuring out how to apply them.


    I dont think I get it, Chance admitted. You mean I need to focus on myself?


    The being pointed at the tangled ball of yarn in Chancesp. Rx. To work with Karma is to weave gently, not to force. If an answer has note to you yet, then perhaps you are not ready. Calm yourself.


    Chance put a hand on the ball of yarn. It was soft and silky to the touch, with knots covering it within and without. Something drew him to trying to untangle it, but he didnt even know where to start. He let his fingers run along it, searching for a knot that he could actually work on.


    But what about the people that are relying on me? Chance asked as he ran his hands along the yarn. Seeking myself is great, but there are people that are living as ves. People trying to kill me and my friends. How am I supposed to take time to learn about myself when the stakes are so high?


    The stakes will always be high, the being said with a softugh. Do you think your problems will cease once these are over? There will always be more. The universe will not permit anyone to truly be at peace  especially not a Karma cultivator. We must make our own peace.


    Chances fingersnded on a knot. He couldnt say why, but it just <em>felt </em>like the right one to start with. He prodded at it, but the knot was impossibly tight. Part of him was tempted to yank on it, but he knew with absolute certainty that doing that was the exact opposite of what the being was trying to convey.


    Drawing in a slow breath and letting it out, Chance let his fingers rx. He brushed them gently across the yarn, searching for where to begin. The closer he looked, the more convoluted the yarn seemed to be.


    Chance raised his gaze to the being. And, as soon as his gaze was off the ball, he felt the yarn shift. His finger caught a small loop, and he gently coaxed it loose. The being watched him silently, and he knew it was smiling.


    Sometimes, the solutionse to us when we seek them least, the being said. And sometimes, we must fight valiantly to im our answers. Karma is a vast concept, with so many facets that nothing has ever truly understood it in its entirety.


    Not even you? Chance asked as he massaged the ball of yarn, pulling more loops free with soft motions.


    The beingughed. I am further along my path than you, but yes. Not even my full form hasprehended the entirety of Karma. We do not walk the same path, but all beings are connected to some degree. You and I are just more connected than most.


    Chance was tempted to ask why, but somehow the question just felt wrong. He fell silent for several seconds. Something about the ball of yarn just felt rxing and <em>right. </em>


    I dont want to fail, Chance said finally. I didnt have anything to fight for before I got to Centurion. Theres so much I stand to lose if I die. Its not just about me.


    Then dont die. You are a cultivator of the supreme Essence of Karma. In the span of a few short months, you have be Rank 3. You stand in opposition to those which seek to corrupt and twist the universe and are mentored by one of the most powerful Karmic cultivators in history. And yet, you are you. Your achievements are not who you are. Your sesses and failures are not who you are. <em>You </em>are who you are.


    Wow, Chance said, a smile flickering across his lips. Thats kind of useless.


    Both of them burst intoughter. The yarn continued to unravel at Chances hands, and his hands worked deeper into it the further he rxed.


    You begin to understand, the being said. The purpose of life is to live, is it not?


    Chance nodded. Youre saying to just do what Ive always done and trust in my Karma.


    You said that, not me. The being inclined its head slightly. There is one more thing that I will pass along to you. Do not let your faith in yourself and your allies waver. Your Essence guides you, which is a great and rare blessing. There will be those that seek to confuse you and ply your path to theirs. They may try to convince you that your actions were wrong, and that only in their image can you be made whole.


    Chance continued to run his hands through the yarn, listening intently to the strange presence. He still had no idea what the man was, and even though just about everything he said was so philosophical that Chance could barely understand how to apply it, Chance could still tell just how powerful the golden mans words were.


    Do not let them sway you. Follow your Essence. Only you know what it is. There is no proper path. There is only <em>your </em>path.


    A gentle breeze blew through the auditorium. The walls shimmered, starting to fade away.


    Our time hase to an end, the man said, bowing his head. We will speak again when the timees, Chance.


    When? I have so many questions. Who


    Chances words trailed off and he shook his head. Never mind. Thank you.


    He returned the mans bow, closing his eyes and smiling as he let the sense of peace fill his body. The auditorium faded around Chance, and he felt himself return back to the stone room, his head still bowed in respect.


    Chance opened his eyes. Bes head was in hisp, and his hands were running through her hair as if it was yarn, and there was a soft smile on her lips. Chance froze, realizing that their faces were just a few inches apart.


    Bes eyes fluttered open. They stared at each other for a moment, and then Be spoke.


    Whyd you stop?


    Chance couldnt stop himself from chuckling. He ran his hands through Bes hair again, feeling a flicker of Karmic energy from deep within him as the golden mansughter receded in his mind.


    One way or another, hed figure out how to deal with the situation  but that could wait.


    Right now, he was busy.

 Chapter 115: Cash in

    Chapter 115: Cash in


    Neither Chance nor Be spoke. Chance wasnt sure how long they were silent, and he didnt care to keep track of it either. But, eventually, their silence ended.


    Be?


    Bes eyes opened and she looked up at Chance. Her expression was still rxed and she looked like shed been a step from falling asleep in hisp. Yeah?


    I know this is a very personal question, but have you ever interacted with the vision you had when you reached the Squire Rank?


    Be blinked. That clearly hadnt been the question that shed been expecting. After a moment, she shook her head slightly. Not beyond when I actually had the vision. I just observed, and that was about it. Why? Did you


    I did. Multiple times now, I think, although thetest one was the first time Ive actually spoken to something in it.


    Bes eyes widened. She made as if to sit up, then thought better of it as Chances handbed through her hair. She settled for sending him a shocked nce. Ive never heard of anything like that before. You probably shouldnt have even told me.


    I trust you.


    Bes cheeks reddened and she nced to the side. I trust you too. But something like that is really dangerous. You basically just confirmed that youve got some secret treasure or special cultivation technique.


    But I dont


    Chances sentence died before it could pass through his lips. He <em>did </em>have a special treasure  or, at least, he had at one point. The stale Cheeto that Bob had given him had been the only unique thing given to him when hed arrived on Centurion. It had purged all the impurities from Chances body, but maybe it hadnt just stopped at that.


    You didnt even realize, did you? Be asked,ughing softly.


    Had no idea, Chance admitted. Im still not totally sure its rted, but theres a strong possibility.


    Well, youve gone and spilled it now. What happened? Be asked.


    Chance grinned down at her. What happened to keeping it secret?


    Dont be a tease. You already spilled the beans, so let me eat them.


    Fine, fine. I spoke with a being. I dont really know what it was, but it gave me advice. Both for myself and about what we should do about the Brackern sect.


    Really? Be swallowed. You actually spoke with something? Visions are supposed to be of something really powerful thats much farther along our Path than we are. Are you implying


    He was really powerful. Stronger than anyone I think weve met, Chance said with a nod. Stronger than Yamish, I think. But its not like hell help me directly. I think its more that he was so powerful that even the vision of him was able to bring some personality and wisdom in.


    Thats terrifying.


    It wouldnt be if you met him. He was kind, Chance said.


    So I take it his suggestion wasnt to rip the Brackern sect apart one by one, ughtering the vers until none of them remain?


    No, Chance agreed. That wasnt it. He kind of just told me to trust myself.


    Be stared up at him. She raised an eyebrow. Wow. Thats inspirational.


    Chanceughed and shook his head. Now that he put it into words, the golden mans words werent exactly awe inspiring  they certainly had been at the time, though. Well, he also gave me a ball of yarn and told me to untangle it.


    Be blinked in confusion. Chance coiled a strand of her hair around one of his fingers and matched her raised eyebrow. Turns out, this was the yarn.


    You know what? I take it back, Be decided. I like him. But is that really it? Such a powerful being took time to speak to you just to tell you to y with my hair?


    Chance grinned. I think your hair just happened to be conveniently ced. I think what he meant was that Im not using Karma to its full extent. Im still trying to force and rely on external factors too much, and that everything I need is at the palm of my hand.


    Bes eyes flicked to the side as she tried to get a look at Chances hands. My hair?


    Probably not quite that literal, Chance admitted. He untangled a hand from Bes hair and patted his travel bag. He meant that weve already got everything we need to deal with this, even though it might not be exactly the method I think any of us were nning on.


    Wait. You mean youve got an idea on how to deal with this?


    Chance nodded. No clue if itll work, but thats how life works, I guess. Its the only way I can imagine handling this in a manner that doesnt result in at least some of us dead.


    How? Be asked.


    Not yet, Chance said with a shake of his head. The n doesnt actually hinge on me, and I dont want to say anything else in case the key party isntfortable doing it. Thatll make them feel pressured to say yes.


    Thats thoughtful of you, but Im sure all of us will do what we have to if it means theres a possibility that


    Cant assume like that, Chance said, tapping Be lightly on the forehead. I know youre willing to, and I know I am, but that doesnt mean everyone is.


    I guess thats true, Be admitted. Chance shifted and she pushed herself upright into a seated position, tucking her tussled hair behind her ears. So whats next? Who do we need to ask?


    Not we, Chance said. Just me. I dont want to put extra pressure on them.


    Be tilted her head to the side, then shrugged. Okay, if youre sure. Should I wait up here?


    No. Im asking Ocie.


    Understanding washed across Bes features and she nodded, rising to her feet. Be held a hand out to Chance and pulled him to his feet. For a moment, the two of them stood there in silence.


    Be nced away, a slight blush on her cheeks. Ill head down, then. Let me know how it goes.


    It wont take long, Chance said. And, even if this n doesnt work out, well figure out a new one. We just have to trust that Karma is working against the Brackern sect. The universe is going to help us, even if it doesnt n to.


    The advice you got really was just go with the flow, wasnt it? Be asked with augh.


    And to believe that that the flow will lead me where I want it to. As long as I do, it will. Chance shed Be a grin. Be shook her head, smiling, and turned to head down the stairs back to the floor below.


    Oh, one more thing, Chance said.


    Be nced back toward him mid step, tilting her head slightly to the side. What is it?


    Do you have a boyfriend?


    Be started in surprise, nearly tripping over her own feet. She and Chance stared at each other for a moment.


    Is that a yes? Chance asked.


    No! No, it wasnt, Be said, shaking her head quickly as her face started to redden again. Shed been doing so much of that in thest few minutes that Chance was slightly worried that the rest of her body wouldnt get enough blood. Is there a reason youre asking?


    Just going with the flow, Chance replied with a grin, trying not to show quite how much he liked hearing that particr piece of information. Ill be downstairs in a little.


    You cant just Be gave up, throwing her hands into the air and scrunching her nose in annoyance. You better finish that line of questioningter.


    Will do, Chance promised. Be headed down the stairs, leaving Chance alone on the second story of the building. He took a moment to gather himself, shaking out his jittery limbs. It was one thing to <em>say </em>hed just do whatever he felt was right, but it was an entirely different one to actually execute on it.


    <em>That was basically a yes though, right? Ah, I really should have waited to ask that a bitter. Now Im not going to be able to properly concentrate. </em>


    Before Chance could finish his miniature internal argument, the rubble at his feet trembled. Rocks rolled together, forming into a stubby golem. It wasnt anywhere near asplex as Ocies forms usually were, but there was probably less material to work with that wouldnt involve tearing the building down on ident.


    Ive seen a lot of human courting rituals, and Im not sure if that was impressive or depressing, Ocie said, stretching her stumpy stone arms above her head. Was your n to ask me for love advice? Im afraid that, as an artifact, I have yet to experience any emotions like


    I can handle that myself, thank you very much, Chance said, shaking his head as the tips of his ears heated. Ocie wasnt exactly very quiet, and he wasnt sure if they could hear him downstairs. Theres an actual n that I wanted to talk to you about.


    Ocies golem tilted its head to the side in question. Chance leaned in, whispering under his breath to her. He doubted anyone was going to overhear them speaking, but thest thing he wanted to do was let the n get blown for some stupid reason.


    It already had enough risk in it. More than he normally would have liked to take, but it was the best idea he had for the time being. Chance straightened when he was done. Ocie was silent for several moments.


    You dont have to agree, Chance said. This isnt a trick question.


    You were mad when I didnt act and put Be at risk.


    Of course I was. Just like Id be mad if she didnt act to try to protect you. I dont value your life less than hers. I dont want either of you to be hurt. Im serious when I say that you dont have to do this. We can find a different way that isnt quite so risky.


    Ocie studied Chances face. The beady stone features of her golem werepletely unreadable. Then, slowly, she nodded. It is not a bad n. Not one that I ever would have thought to do on my own, but I can see the merits.


    Youll do it? Chance asked, surprised. Hed fully expected Ocie to refuse him.


    Ocie nodded. I think that you are a bad influence on me, Chance. Give the belt to me.


    Chance dug the belt out of his travel bag and spilled it onto the ground before Ocie. The golem extended a hand and rock rose up, enveloping the belt and pulling it inside Ocies body.


    Youre absolutely sure? Chance pressed. Im confident in your abilities, but I dont want you to do this out of some obligation. Were equals in this partnership. I dont tell you what to do.


    I know that, Ocie said irritably. Even as I know that, as an artifact, I am being a fool.


    Then


    But, Ocie continued, cutting Chance off before he could finish his sentence. I am no mere artifact. I am the Old City of Gleam, manifest of the greatest Schr City in Centurion. I am more than any mortal could everprehend. This minor task is nothing to me.


    Thank you.


    Shut up, Ocie said with a sigh. Dont get sappy. I dont like it. Itll take me a little time, but youll have to do your part as well.


    We will, Chance promised. How long?


    An hour. Is that enough for you to move?


    More than. Well be there.


    Ocie nodded, then sank into the ground. Chance turned, his heart starting to thump in his chest. It wasnt just his own life he was putting on the line with this n  it was all of theirs. He drew a deep breath, letting the Essence swirl within his chest and permeate throughout his body.


    The stress left Chances body as he exhaled, reced by determination. Golden mist curled away from Chances back like a cloak as he strode downstairs.


    It was time to cash in the Karma that the Brackern sect had umted against themselves.

 Chapter 116: Bad Idea

    Chapter 116: Bad Idea


    Chance strode downstairs, stepping over a piece of fallen rubble and down onto the ground floor. Everyone turned to look at him. It was clear by the shifty looks in their eyes and the bright red blush in Bes cheeks that everyone had heard at least some of the conversation upstairs.


    <em>At least I whispered when I was speaking the important bits to Ocie. </em>


    Stop looking at me like that, Chance grumbled. Weve got work to do, you know.


    You mean you arent going to finish what you were talking about with Be? Quinn demanded. I mean, I dont think I should care, but for some reason, Im


    Jie pped Quinn gently on the back of the head. She snapped her mouth shut and sent a re at him, but crossed her arms in a silent pout.


    Not with you lot watching, Chance said dryly. We unfortunately have considerably less fun matters to deal with. Ive got a n to deal with the Brackern sect. All of them.


    Seriously? Jade asked, squinting at Chance doubtfully. Does it involve returning to Gleam to get reinforcements?


    No. We arent going back to Gleam yet, Chance said with a shake of his head. And, even if you do yourself, we arent going to be here when you get back. The Shikari arent our friends.


    Jade pressed her lips together, then shrugged one shoulder. Whats your n, then?


    Mypanion is already working on it, but well all have to help. I need to make as much noise and gather as much attention as we possibly can.


    This time, the looks Chance got were closer to the worried gaze of a doctor that had started to expect that their patient had hit their head just a little too hard.


    That sounds like a great way for all of us to get killed really quickly, Quinn said. Do you realize theyre Rank Five and Six cultivators? We are going to get killed. Painfully.


    The reason I think this should work is precisely because theyre that powerful. Theres no way theyd actually use their full strength against us, right?


    I dont think you understand, Quinn said. They dont <em>need </em>their full strength. A finger would be enough.


    Which is why itll be important that they never actuallynd a finger on us. Powerful cultivators are pretty egotistical from what Ive seen of them. Ive dealt with someone thats probably well past Rank Six, and he was the same.


    Bes gaze darkened at the reference to Vex. Chances words technically included Yamish as well, but Yamish was a special case and not one he wanted to think too much about right now.


    Youre going to bet on them being so arrogant that they  what, just let us walk out? Quinn asked. Im not sure thats a very reliable strategy.


    Chance shook his head. No. They wont let us walk out, but theyll almost certainly want to make a show of things, just like you said. You escaped them. Theyll want to show that doing something like that isnt possible to anyone else that might be having thoughts of rebellion.


    You <em>want </em>to get tortured?


    I want them to think that were ying into their hands, Chance corrected. But, more importantly, I want them grouped up. After that, Ocie will handle everything.


    Be tilted her head to the side, but she seemed to be the only one taking Chances words with any degree of actual consideration. Everyone else didnt even look slightly convinced.


    Youre just going to stop there? Wheres the part of your n where we actually deal justice? Jade asked. Youre leaving out the most important part.


    No. Im leaving the most important part to Karma, Chance corrected. The more locked in this n is, the worse my Essence will work. And I dont want them to somehow overhear what were talking about. Who knows what kind of Essences they have. Maybe theyve got a way to hear what weve said.


    If they do, then youve already said too much, Quinn said.


    No, I havent. I can say what I want, but theyre Rank Five and Six cultivators, just like you said. Theres absolutely nothing that I, as a Rank Three, could possibly do to them. No matter how much they may or may not know about the n, it doesnt matter. Nothing changes. Well, if they were able to tell where we were, then that would be a problem  but its also clear they cant, or we would have been found by now, so thats a moot point.


    Quinn shook her head and stood up, scratching at her side with a frown on her lips. Im not a fan of following a n that you wont tell us when it sounds this dubious already. It seems like a death sentence.


    Have you thought of any better ideas? Be asked.


    Im pretty sure doing absolutely nothing would be better, Quinn muttered, but her eyes fell and her shoulders slumped. I dont know. But how is this supposed to work? Bringing all of them together so we can beat to paste even easier? Im not seeing it.


    Youre going to have to trust me, Chance said. My Essence works better when theres more luck involved, and for this n, it doesnt actually matter much what all of us do. We just need to draw the Brackern sect out to the front of the city.


    Can we run afterward? Jie asked.


    Chance shrugged. Once the important part is over, then yes. If we time it right, we wont have to be waiting out there long at all. Everything will happen in an hour from a few minutes ago  or in about a little over fifty five minutes.


    Lets assume youve got some way to actually deal with the cultivators, Jade said, drumming her fingers on the hilt of her sword. How do <em>we </em>survive? Im willing to fight for a cause I believe in, but I dont want to throw my life away. Its a waste of resources.


    <em>That really is the question, isnt it? </em>


    Ill handle it, Chance said. It was one thing to ask the others to help, but for the final stage of his n, the only person whose life he was willing topletely bet on his trust in Ocie was his own. The important part will be getting all the important Brackern sect members to the front. As soon as you get them there, Ill keep their attention. The rest of you can run.


    You really think you can hold off multiple high ranked cultivators? Jades brow furrowed. Are you hiding some sort of strength that I havent seen? Theres no possible way a Rank 3


    Ill be fine, Chance repeated. I know Im asking all of you for a lot, but Im convinced this will work.


    Then Ill stand with you, Be said, inclining her head. I dont know what good Im going to do against a Rank Six, but my specialty is defense. If anyone can hold them back for even a few seconds longer, it would be me.


    Chance nodded in appreciation. Having Be beside him would go a long way to help tip the scales in his favor. He was still confident that Ocie would pull through on her end, but even a few seconds could make a world of difference.


    Quinn pursed her lips. Then she let out a huff. Ill help make noise and draw the bastards over to you, but Im not going to stand around outside the city like a chicken waiting to be plucked. Is that enough?


    More than, Chance said with a grin.


    Youre absolutely sure of this? Jade asked.


    Chance nodded.


    Then Ill help Quinn in luring the cultivators to the front of the city, Jade decided. If things look like theyre going well enough, I might throw in with you and Be, but I wont just toss my life away unless its for a good cause.


    You know, you probably shouldnt throw your life away for any reason, Jie muttered. Im not sure Ill be much help in any of this. Im not a cultivator. I might be able to make sure there arent any normal citizens in the area, though. I take it that if Chances n works, theres going to be a lot of damage?


    Chance nodded. Yeah. That would be perfect. Thank you, everyone.


    Thank us if you manage to survive this, Quinn said. You said weve got a bit less than an hour. When do we want everyone to show up at the front of the city? How long can you hold them off?


    Not long, Chance admitted. My strategy isnt going to work for more than a few minutes, so the closer we are to the perfect timing, the better. And, once were there, if youre going to run, make sure you run <em>really </em>hard. Dont be anywhere close.


    The others all exchanged nervous nces.


    Thats reassuring, Jade said under her breath. The groups will be Be and Chance together, then the rest of us on our own, right? Lets spread out to the corners of the city and start causing amotion after about forty five minutes. That should leave everyone enough time to run back to the front of the city  the cultivators are unlikely to want to destroy their own town, so stick close to buildings.


    And make sure to avoid anyone you pass by, Quinn added. We dont want to injure anyone thats just being controlled.


    Everyone nodded. With that, their n  as secretive as Chance was  had been set. They all chose a direction and broke off, leaving the safe house behind as they set off to dropkick a bee hive and hope that Chances Essence was enough to keep them from paying the price.

 Chapter 117: Bluff

    Chapter 117: Bluff


    A massive crash shook the city. Debris tumbled to the ground as a building copsed, crashing down on the main street. Stone shattered and exploded in every direction as the building struck the ground.


    Chance and Be ducked behind a glittering shield of blue crystal that Be had formed in the air before them. The cloud of dust billowed past them, apanied by a howl of wind, and they stared at each other.


    Just minutes before, Chance had called on his Essence to lead him to the building with the worst construction in their direction. Be had then sent a spike of crystal out at Chances direction, driving it through an already-rotting support beam.


    Neither of them had expected the building to pitch into a neighboring tower, taking the tower down with it. As thest vibrations left the ground beneath their feet, Be let the wall of crystal drop.


    Well, thats certainly going to get some attention, Be said, squinting through the dust. Have I told you that your Essence is terrifying?


    You can remind meter, Chance replied, grabbing Bes hand and dashing into the cloud. He let his Essence guide him as he ran through the rubble. Be kept pace with him, but let Chance lead to take advantage of his luck.


    They scrambled up the remains of the buildings and through the site of the crash, bursting out the cloud on the other side. A small crowd had gathered to stare, and several people stumbled as Chance and Be nearly ran them down.


    Stop them! a man roared in the distance. Chance and Be exchanged a nce as they ran. Chances spine tingled and he grabbed Bes other hand, spinning her as if they were in the worlds worst timed ballroom dance. A thick stone arrow howled through the air, passing between them and mming into the stone just behind Chance.


    Looks like we got one! Chance called, elerating once more with augh. He felt Bes Essence envelop his body as she encased both of them in a thinyer of protective crystal.


    <em>I dont know how much this is going to do against attacks from Rank Five and Six enemies, but theres no point worrying about it. The most important thing to do now  </em>


    What do we do? Be yelled.


    Chance stuck his leg out, sweeping Be off her feet as she let out a curse. They leaned forward and an arrow arced past, missing them once more. Chance grinned down at Be, then pulled her back upright.


    Have fun, Chance suggested. And follow my lead.


    The joy from his Essence pumped through his body even harder, bubbling up in an infectiousugh. Bes eyes only had a moment to widen before Chance yanked her away again, darting down a side street.


    Angry yells rose up from behind them, but they only served to make Chanceugh even harder. It was like a game of tag. A very, very high stake game of tag.


    Unfortunately for them, Chance couldnt remember thest time hed had the freedom to y tag. It had been too long since hed run free on earth with no purpose but to run  and that meant he <em>really </em>wanted to win.


    A man dropped from the sky as they drew close to an end in the alleyway, a furious scowl on his expression. His wavy ck hair stuck out in every direction and his teeth were slightly pointed. He held arge stone bow nearly as tall as he was in both hands. The ground shattered beneath his feet as hended.


    You must be the little shits that killed Drayan, he snarled. Stop running around and


    Chances urumi leapt to his hand and he sliced it down. The man smirked, clearly not even slightly concerned with any threat that Chance and Be could pose him.


    Unfortunately for him, Chance wasnt aiming for him. He was aiming for a strand of Karma. His de sliced through it and energy poured into his body. Chance grabbed Be, pulling her to his chest as he bounded into the air, sailing clean over the man head and onto the roof of a nearby house.


    Chance cackled as they sprinted across the roof, and the man chasing them let out a roar of fury, leaping upward  right as Chances foot caught on a shingle and sent it flying. The little rectangle spun through the air and caught the man straight in the eye.


    The cry of fury turned into a yelp. It was more of surprise than actual pain due to how much his body had been reinforced by his aura, but every second mattered. By the time the man shook himself off, Chance and Be had dropped back into another alley.


    Holy shit, Be gasped as they dashed back out into the main street. Was that one of


    Chance spun Be to the side. Another arrow sailed past them, mming into the ground harmlessly. The wavy-haired man drew another arrow as he flew through the air above them, his teeth gritted in fury.


    Probably the Rank 4, Chance said. He shed the flying man a grin, then they sprinted off again. To Chance, the world was just the thump of his feet on the cobbled stone and the swirl of Essence in the air around him.


    He and Be dashed through the city, locked in a dance. More Brackern sect members joined the chase, but he was barely aware of any of them. Fire and ice roared around him and Be, rising up in walls and trying to cut off their escape without doing too much damage to the city.


    To his Essence-infused mind, it didnt matter. Winds blew the fires out for just instants as he and Be ran through them. Bes crystal formed ramps that they used to sprint over the walls of ice.


    An invisible strand of Karma seemed to float before Chance, pulling him and Be through the city. It wasnt him versus the cultivators chasing them. It was all the Karma that the Brackern sect had racked up against themselves versus the Brackern sect cultivators  and their Karma was far, far greater than they.


    The force of the Essence raining down around them intensified, destroying more of the city as their pursuers grew more impatient. Chance, once again, barely noticed. Hisughter just grew stronger.


    They burst from the cover of the main streets and sprinted out into the open, finally arriving at arge stone gate. The steel doors were shut, but that hardly even felt like an issue to Chance. At this point, he wasnt fully in control of his body.


    Stairs! Chance called as they skidded to a stop by the wall. It was covered with beautiful runes, and Chance could feel it pulsing with Essence. The wall had been reinforced by something  which meant that it was even more expensive than the rest of the city.


    Bes crystal raced up the wall, forming into a series of steps. A river of ice roared down from the sky above them, but it froze an instant before it collided with them and the wall.


    Like Chance had guessed, the cultivators didnt want to ruin their own citypletely. The moment they were outside the walls, then theyd be much easier targets. That, of course, was the n.


    They raced up the makeshift stairs Be had formed, reaching the top just secondster. Chance shoved Be back, keeping a hold on her hand, and a spike of ice as thick as Chances entire body shot between them, below their arms.


    Chance yanked Be back, then jumped. His body was still empowered by the Karma hed freed from the bowman, so he dropped from the wall andnded on the grass beyond it without difficulty.


    They ran out about a hundred feet from the wall, then spun to face their pursuers for the first time. Both Chance and Be were breathing heavily, but more from excitement than exertion.


    I dont think Ill ever be able to top that adrenaline rush again, Be rasped, pressing a hand to her chest.


    Chance drew deep on his Essence, sending it out in a thick golden mist. There was onest thing he needed to ensure  and it was the most important part of their entire mission. Two men flew above the walls  the first was the bowman, and the second was a gray-haired woman wearing long blue robes.


    Hello, Chance called.


    The two cultivators stared down at Chance inplete befuddlement, and that was exactly what Chance had been hoping for. Theyd just witnessed a Rank 3 race through their city, avoiding every single one of their attacks, restrained as theyd been. And now, once he got out, he turned around and started chatting with them like an old friend.


    <em>Im not just relying on luck here. Im relying on arrogance. When a fly up and starts talking after flying around your kitchen and pooping on your food, you dont squish it until you figure out what the hell was wrong with it. </em>


    What are you? the bowman demanded, keeping an arrow knocked and aimed straight at Chances chest. Who sent you? What sect are you from?


    Shards of ice swirled in the air above them, waiting to drop at any moment. If they did, Chance was well aware that Bes crystal wouldnt be enough to stop them. At least one of the people before him was Rank Five or Six, and even his luck could only take him so far when they werent holding back anymore.


    <em>No, the only way wee out alive is if I can keep them talking. They dont know much about us, and Drayan expected us to be from a sect. As long as they think weve got strong backing, I can keep them talking.</em>


    A few, Chance replied with an easygoing shrug. Wasnt that run fun? You must not get a chance to get out too often. Drayan certainly didnt.


    The bowmans teeth bared in a snarl, but the woman put a hand on his shoulder. She watched Chance with narrow eyes. In the distance, a rumble shook the city. Chance hadnt seen any people near the gate when theyd run through it, so Jie must have been sessful at his task.


    <em>Looks like the others are stilling, though. </em>


    Calm, Arlen, the woman said, confirming Chances guess that this was the Rank Four. She whispered something into his ear and Arlen lowered his bow slightly, though he still kept it aimed straight at Chance.


    Answer Rials question, Arlenmanded. If you think youll be able to avoid my Essence out here, youre sorely mistaken. A single arrow will kill both of you.


    Two ces, then, Chance said with a shrug. Another rumble shook the city, this one far closer to the gate. Chance sent some of his Essence crawling across the ground toward the gate in a thin, almost invisible stream. Whoever was running through it was probably going to need some luck. Dancing Coud.


    Whats the other? Rial pressed. Who dares challenge the Brackern sect? Answer now and your death will be painless.


    <em>Is that really such a good motivator? Its not like I couldnt kill myself faster than you killed me. Wouldnt it be much smarter to offer to let me live or something, even if you were lying?</em>


    Gleam.


    Rial and Arlen froze. They exchanged a nce, but the tension was broken when Rial let out a burst ofughter.


    Gleam? You im to be a Shikari? There is no


    There was a brilliant sh of gold and the gates flew open with a loud bang. Jade sprinted out from within them, her eyes as wide as saucers, dragging Quinn behind her like a ragdoll. She was surrounded by a sphere of bright yellow energy, but the energy was riddled with cracks and moments from breaking.


    Chances Essence touched Jades foot and she slipped, skidding across the ground. A massive beam of fire roared out from behind the gates. It obliterated the air above her head. The residual heat from the magic was so intense that the grass was sh-fried, turning ck in an instant.


    The sphere surrounding her shattered. Jade scrambled to her feet, dragging Quinn over to Chance and Be. She skidded to a stop, her eyes wild.


    I got them. Wasted a powerful artifact in the process and Quinns knocked unconscious, but we made it. You better have something up your sleeve, Chance.


    You dont say, Be muttered.


    Three more cultivators flew into the air beside Rial and Arlen, their robes fluttering in the air around them. Chance had no idea which was which aside from the first two, but he didnt care. It only took a single nce at their Karmic threads to know that their fate had already been woven into the universe.


    So, Chance said, spreading his arms out and hoping harder than ever that they wouldnt just st him into a paste before hearing out his <em>technically </em>correct im that he was from Gleam. Im d to make all of your acquaintance. If you kill us now, the full might of Gleam wille down on you for killing a Shikari. Shall we talk?

 Chapter 118: Bait

    Chapter 118: Bait


    Just kill them, said one of the new cultivators, a man with an interwoven ck beard and cold brown eyes. Their exnations dont matter. If Gleam had sent forces, then they would have sent much more than an assortment of Rank 3s.


    Arlen nodded, but one of the other man raised a hand. His red hair floated around his head as if it were underwater. Chance couldnt ce what it was, but there was something <em>off </em>about him.


    The man beside him felt simrly wrong. His blonde hair hung in a low ponytail behind his head and his face almost looked peaceful despite the angering off all the other cultivators. There was an aura of danger that surrounded both of them that was so intense that Chance could feel it.


    The girl used an artifact that was made in Gleam, the red haired man said, studying them through half-lidded eyes. Chance almost got the feeling that the man would actually copse and fall asleep if he werent actively talking. It lends credence to their argument.


    Be that as it may, Vernan, they still cannot be allowed to live, Rial said. They made a mockery of our sect. We should kill them and wipe the evidence of their passing from thisnd. Even if they are Shikari, Gleam would care little for their loss. They are only Rank 3s.


    Chance wished he could speak with Ocie, but he had no idea where the artifact was. There was always a chance Ocie had just up and left to save herself, but Chance didnt even take that into consideration. Ocie wouldnt fail them. He just had to buy more time.


    Gleam will care if you kill us, Chance said, raising his voice to be heard. Theyll care quite a bit. Theres a pretty big search out for three of us. If we die, theyre going toe looking to see what happened.


    Vernan tilted his head to the side, then nced at the blonde man at his side. The man remained quiet, either in deep contemtion orpletely bored out of his mind. Chance couldnt tell which.


    I vote we kill them, Arlen said, his fingers tightening around the shaft of his bow. This is both pointless and a waste of time. Gleam doesnt care about worthless cultivators like this. Their deaths will not be noticed.


    I believe further investigation is warranted, Rial said. We should capture them. If their words are false, kill them after.


    I vote to kill, Vernan said. They all spoke as if Chance and the others werent even there. Chance supposed that was reasonable enough. Now that they didnt have the city to hide behind, there really was absolutely nothing they could do against the cultivators before them.


    They were quite literally bugs at their feet. Even a single thought from one of the Rank Six cultivators would likely be enough to kill all of them in a fell swoop.


    Thest cultivator that arrived, a woman with dark brown hair and rounded features that had still yet to speak, shook her head. If we bring Gleam down upon ourselves, we will not be able to survive their onught. Gleam cares little, but if even a sliver of the boys words is true, then the risk is far too great.


    Two and two, Vernan observed. He looked to the blond man. As usual, then. What is your verdict, Lord Naveed?


    Naveed didnt respond for several moments. His eyes bore into Chances like twin drills, but Chance didnt give his ground in the slightest. Every second he bought mattered. As soon as Naveed spoke, everything would be over.


    If he really did have Gleams backing, then he would have nothing to fear. Chance did his best to pass that feeling across in his stance. Naveeds gaze lifted away from Chance, a small frown ying across his features.


    And, in that moment, Chance knew that his bluff had been called.


    Naveed opened his mouth. Then he paused. His brow furrowed and he tilted his head to the side, a flicker of confusion passing over his features.


    Naveed? Vernan asked.


    A wall of brown scales reced the sky as the head of an enormous dragon burst from beneath the ground. If its head was to scale, then it must have been nearly a quarter the size of the entire Brackern sects city.


    Chance didnt properly register its arrival. One second, the sky had been empty. The second, the enormous toothy maw had snapped shut around Vernan, Naveed, and the cultivator that Chance could only assume to be Timone.


    An earthshaking crash filled the air and Be rushed in front of Chance, mming her hands to the ground and forming a thick wall of translucent crystal around them. The shockwave from the dragons arrival mmed into her Essence with such force that it cracked instantly, only barely managing to keep its form.


    Wind screamed past all of them and the walls of the Brackern sect groaned. Large chunks of stone ripped away and crumbled down as an enormous earthquake shook everything around them.


    Chance stared up at the dragon in awe. Each scale was the size of a small mansion, and its maw of massive, glistening teeth was like a forest of bone. The dragons tongue flitted out from its mouth and its throat bellowed.


    Be snapped her fingers and crystal raced around all of their heads, tightly binding around their ears. Chance reflexively squeezed his eyes shut as the dragon let out a deafening scream.


    More crystal continued to pour out from Bes hands, encasing their ears, but even that wasnt enough. It shattered, along with every single window in the Brackern sect  and probably a good bit more. The roar was so loud that the ground beneath them trembled.


    The dragons head whipped around, then plunged back into the ground. Another rumble shook the earth, and all of them stood in forced silence, blood trickling from their ruptured eardrums as they stared at the huge hole where the front of the Brackern sect had once been.


    There was absolutely no trace of any of the Brackern sects head cultivators. It hardly even seemed real. Every single one of them had vanished  devoured in a single instant. There had been no glorious battle. No incredible, close fight.


    Theyd been snuffed out like moths flying into a bonfire.


    Rubble from the citys walls pitched forward, falling soundlessly into the huge hole. Chances chest constricted.


    <em>Did everybody get out? The chances of that are almost zero. I probably just killed some innocent people  and even if they survived the monsters arrival, that roar almost certainly seriously injured someone at best. </em>


    Be mouthed something, but Chance couldnt hear her. He dug into his case, pulling out his vial of healing pills and flicking one to Be, Quinn, and Jade before taking one himself. It dissolved on his tongue and Chances hearing snapped back.


    What was that? Jade breathed, her face as pale as a sheet of paper. Monsters thatrge exist? Why did it attack? I dont understand. You arent a Rank 3 at all, are you? Theres no way you could control something that powerful.


    It wasnt me, Chance said, swallowing heavily and pushing the thoughts of what hed just aided in doing to the back of his mind.


    A pile of stones on the ground before them trembled. They pulled themselves together, molding into a rocky form. It stumbled as it rose, its features smoothing. The rock stopped halfway up, leaving arge section of the golems arm and upper left chest unformed.


    You, Ocie said, thrusting a finger into Chances chest, are a terrible influence.


    Ocie? Be asked, staring in confusion. What happened? Why are you missing an arm?


    Because I was baiting a Rank 6 dragon, Ocie replied dryly. Do you think you just ask a monster like that to show up and it does?


    Everyone other than Chance stared at her, uprehending. Ocie nced at Chance, then shook her head.


    He didnt tell you. I guess that makes sense. Too easy to counter such a moronic n if someone overheard it. Chance remembered how much I liked artifacts, so he gave me one he got from the Ancient Realm in hopes that I could use it to lure a monster powerful enough to kill the Brackern sect cultivators.


    Theres no way a monster that powerful went for just a single artifact, Jade said, watching Ocie through squinted eyes. Unless Chance sacrificed a really, really powerful artifact.


    Of course not, Ocie agreed.


    Chance blinked in surprise. What?


    Youre so well meaning, Ocie said with a softugh that sounded strangeing from a being made of stone. But you can be so stupid, Chance. If you want to bait a monster powerful enough to kill Rank Six cultivators, even rtively weak ones, then you need a prize much better than just a single measly artifact.


    Chances brow furrowed. But thats all I had. What did you give it? Bes artifact?


    No, Be said with a shake of her head. I still have mine.


    And those wouldnt have been enough either, Ocie said. Have you forgotten what I am, Chance?


    Chances eyes widened. You gave it <em>yourself?</em>


    A small portion. More than what I gained from absorbing the artifacts in the Ancient Realm, but not by much, Ocie said. A piece of rubble cracked and rolled away from her damaged shoulder. As I said. Chance is a terrible influence. What sort of artifact gives away part of themselves for some worthless humans?


    Chances mouth worked, but he couldnt find words. I  I didnt realize


    I know, Ocie said with a smirk. Your talent has never been thinking. Ive learned that much. You just believe so strongly that youre fighting for the right cause and things will go well that they do. And, this time, they did.


    Thank you, Be said, inclining her head. She looked to be at a simr loss for words, and had just settled for the simple two that could never properly encapste what they actually meant. You saved a lot of people today, Ocie.


    Ocie grunted. People that will die in a few measly years anyway. But dont think Ivepletely lost my mind. Dont you dare expect this again. This is an investment  you hear? I expect payment for this, Chance. Not today. Not even this year. But I expect you to grow strong enough to actually enforce those impossible ideals of yours.


    Why are you talking like youre about to die? Chance asked nervously. Are you


    Ocie let out a bark ofughter. Im not that idiotic yet. I wouldnt kill myself for a city of worthless mortals. I might be asleep for some time, though.


    Chances hands clenched at his sides. Thank you, Ocie. If Id known  well, I guess I probably still would have asked you to do it. Im sorry.


    Dont be, Ocie said, giving him a rocky grin. Its your nature. Just dont corrupt mine too much. And dont forget to get that payment for me when I wake up. I charge interest.


    Ocies body rippled, then crumbled apart. They all stared at the pile of rubble in silence.


    Youre insane, Jade muttered. I cant believe that actually worked. You put all of our lives on the bet that an intelligent artifact would willingly sacrifice itself?


    That wasnt the n, Chance replied, pressing his lips together. I owe Ocie now, but it sounds like Ive got some time to make it up to her. Until then, weve got a much more important thing to do.


    What? Jade asked. Keep that massive dragon from eating us too?


    If it wanted to eat us, it already would have, Be said.


    Chance nodded in the direction of the crumbling Brackern sect. People are definitely hurt in there because of what I just kicked off. I wont make anyonee with me, but Im going in to get healing to everyone I can.


    You dont even have to ask, Be said with a shake of her head.


    Ille too, Quinn said, speaking up for the first time in a while. She locked eyes with Chance for a moment, then bowed her head. Thank you. All of you.


    Thank us after we keep more people from dying, Jade said. Lets go.


    The others all nodded, and they set off toward the city at a run, working their way around the massive hole that now took up its front. Every second that passed could mean someones life. There would be time to rest once the damage to the people of the city was handled as best as they could.

 Chapter 119: Onward

    Chapter 119: Onward


    The scene at the city wasnt pretty.


    Jie had managed to get the majority of people away in time, but it was an impossible task to get <em>all </em>of them. Chance distributed the rest of his healing pills amongst everyone and they all set out, rushing through the crumbling buildings to find and help everyone they could.


    Unfortunately, that number wasnt anywhere near as high as Chance had hoped. The immediate area around where the dragon had erupted was decimated. The wall and its surrounding buildings had beenrgely demolished, shattered into waves of projectiles that had ravaged the rest of the area.


    Rubble covered the streets and buildings had crumbled,nding in dust-filled piles. It was like a bomb had gone off at the edge of town. In a way, Chance supposed, one had.


    Chance found almost countless people  or rather, parts of people  with no strands of Karma connected to them. Even though he wasnt able to locate the rest of their bodies in the rubble, he didnt need to.


    Anybody without Karma was gone. Even still, Chance didnt let that stop him. He raced through the streets, running from building to building in search of anyone that he could actually help.


    His efforts werent wasted. He stumbled across a group of servants that had taken cover behind a thick stone wall and had suffered several broken limbs and some serious cuts, but nothing that had been immediately fatal.


    Chance distributed healing pills and raced off, letting his Essence guide his steps. Hours raced by like minutes as he worked his way through the worst parts of the city. As bad as the damage had been, he didnt stumble across as many wounded as hed expected.


    That could either have been attributed to Jies work or to his failure to give Jie enough time to get everyone out of the area. But, one way or another, there were soon no more people left for Chance to aid. They were either treated or dead.


    Nobody tried to stop him, but not many thanked him either. Most probably had no idea who he was. And, if anyone did, they didnt mention it. Chance didnt me them. The majority of those he found were servants, and after having been enved, he imagined they had more important things to worry about than his identity.


    Chance turned a corner, circling back on an area hed already worked through in case hed managed to miss someone. In the process, he nearly ran face first into Be. They both skidded to a stop. Quinn and Jade stood behind Be, with Jie just behind them, his arm wrapped in a bandage.


    Ive got this area, Chance said. You can check


    We already did, Be said, putting a hand on Chances shoulder. Weve already done what we can, Chance.


    There might be more people trapped in the rubble. We need to keep checking, Chance insisted.


    Dont you think your Essence would have found them already if there were? Be asked gently. We arent omnipotent, Chance. I know better than anyone else. You cant bring back the dead.


    But what if someones still there?


    They arent, Jade said, her face weary. Its done. Bes right, Chance. Weve done everything we can.


    Chances hands clenched at his sides for a moment. Then he let his shoulders slump and sighed, nodding his understanding. Yeah. I guess we have. How  how many were you able to save?


    Used up all your pills, Jade said, holding up an empty vial. Be and Quinn nodded.


    Were out as well, Quinn said. Youve genuinely done just about everything I think you could have. Far more than anyone else would have, Ill say that. Healing pills arent cheap when youre away from the schr cities orrge sects. You spent a lot of money.


    Money hardly matters in the face of life, Chance said with a shake of his head. At least it was useful, but I wish we didnt have to do it at all. I should have lured the cultivators farther from the city. I didnt realize


    And, if youd tried that, they might have killed us before we got a chance for Ocies efforts to pay off, Be said sharply, cutting Chance off before he could continue. She sent him a look. It wasnt soft, but it wasnt hard either. It was simply a look of understanding. Life doesnt bend to our whims.


    I still cant believe it, Jie murmured, walking up to join them. The bandages on his arm were bloodied, but it didnt look like the wound had been serious, so Chance suspected theyd left it untreated to save the pills for someone that needed them more. Were free.


    Quinn touched him on the shoulder, turning her face away from the rest of them to hide her expression. She drew in a deep breath and let it out slowly, settling for an unsteady nod.


    I cant believe it got this bad in the first ce, Jade said, her eyes crinkling in anger. The Schr Cities are meant to prevent this. Thats what the Shikari are for. This sect never should have been allowed to exist.


    The Shikari arent anywhere as noble as you think they are, Jie said with a shortugh. Theyre just cultivators like anyone else. Some are good. Some are not. They work for a paycheck. If someone had enough money, Im sure Gleam or one of the other Schr Cities would have sent someone to help us.


    But they didnt, Quinn finished. She turned back toward them, locking eyes with Jade. You did. I cant put words to match the gravity of what youve done for us. I never would have expected a group of random cultivators  Shikari or not  to put their lives on the line to helpplete strangers with no real reward.


    Jie and Quinn both lowered into a deep bow for several seconds.


    <em>I just wish I could have done more. I killed people. Im d the cultivators are dead, but its still my fault. Its not like I would change anything from what Ive done, though. This needed to happen. I just wish I was strong enough to have both killed them and kept everyone innocent safe. </em>


    <em>Once again, I find myself needing to get stronger. I wonder if theres ever a point where that ends. </em>


    Chance caught Be watching him, and he could tell by the look in her eyes that she might as well have read his thoughts.


    Will everyone be fine now that the cultivators at the top are gone? Chance asked. What about the people that worked under them? Are they going to try to take advantage of the situation or something?


    Quinn shook her head, straightening back out. No. There are enough of us that are cultivators on our side now that the bindings have been removed. Well be safe  or as safe as you can be when you arent inside a schr city.


    I think I need to report this to Gleam, Jade said, chewing her lower lip. I know you feel poorly about the Shikari, Jie. I cant me you  but that doesnt change the fact that we failed in our duty. Someone  either Gleam or in the nearest Schr City  failed in their duties, and people need to know.


    The strong dont take kindly to anybody that challenges them, Jie warned. It will not go well for you.


    Itll be fine, Jade said, setting her features. My Essence wouldnt let me do anything else. I would hurt my own path.


    Youre leaving, then? Chance asked. Be and I obviously cant return to Gleam yet. Itll be a while until the bounty on our heads gets lifted.


    Supposedly, Jade said, her mouth tilting up slightly in a flicker of a smile. And, yes. I will be. I would have liked to tail you and Be for longer to see more, but I think Ive seen everything I need to. Whoever put the hit on your heads was lying. You arent who they say you are.


    What will you do when they ask about us? Be asked. You might be reprimanded for failing to capture us.


    As if I could capture either of you, Jade said, shaking her head. Even if I thought I could defeat both of you, do you really think Quinn is going to let me capture you after what you did for the real people of her sect?


    Not just Quinn, Jie said, pressing his lips together. You were right  I dont trust the Shikari. They didnt help us, and even though I cant do anything to you as a normal human, there are a lot of cultivators who were just freed today. None of them would sit around quietly.


    See? Jade asked with a wry smile, raising her hands into the air and giving them a small shrug. Nothing I could have done. Theres absolutely no way I could bring you two in. It the mission is going to just end in my own death with no chance of victory, then it would be a waste of Gleams resources.


    Are you sure anyone will buy that? Chance rubbed one of his arms. Youve been traveling with us for more than just a day or two. Someones going to point out that youve had other opportunities.


    Let me deal with it. I can take care of myself. You need to be more concerned about your own wellbeing, Jade said.


    Dont bother, Be said with a sigh. You wont get through to him.


    All of themughed. It was augh born more of relief than anything else, but there was a hint of freedom in it.


    Make sure you dont get yourselves killed or captured, Jade said. Im going to track you down once you get back to Gleam, okay?


    Will do, Be said, holding her hand out. Jade grabbed it and they shook once. While youre at it, could you look into how Yeo is doing? Hes a goofy idiot, but he was also being chased by the Shikari.


    Jade inclined her head. Ill see what I can do, but Im still just a Knight. There are pretty serious limits to what I can do. But, if theres anything, then Ill do it.


    Thank you, Chance said. He took onest look around the rubble surrounding them, then pressed his lips together. I think we should leave as well. If theres nothing else we can do for these people, then I dont want to mistakenly bring down the Shikari on top of them if they figure out Be and I are here.


    We can get you some supplies for the road, Jie volunteered. There should be more than enough to spare for just two people.


    That would help a lot. Thank you.


    Jie shook his head. I dont think its anywhere near enough to repay any of you, but its the least we can do.


    Jade raised a hand in farewell. Safe travels, all of you. Well meet again.


    Same to you, Chance said, raising his own hand. He and Be followed after Jie and Quinn as Jade headed in the other direction, making for the exit of the city.


    Jie took them back to Drayans manor. It had been undamaged by the explosion, and Jie clearly knew the locations of just about everything. It took him just a few minutes to put together two travel bags and shove them into Chance and Bes hands.


    He and Quinn then apanied them to the back edge of the city, walking them all the way up to the gate. They paused there for a moment, Chance and Be just beyond the gate and Jie and Quinn within it.


    And to think this is all because of Nimea, Quinn said with a shake of her head. Its hard to believe how recent that was. It feels like weeks.


    Karma works in weird ways, I guess, Chance said.


    I find it slightly amusing that, after I realized you werent a terrible person and you spared my life, I was trying to think of ways that I could manipte you to help me, Quinn said sheepishly. And then you ended up doing more than I ever even wanted to ask for. Thank you again.


    Chance rubbed the back of his head awkwardly. One thing he hadnt been prepared for was a proper goodbye, especially since every time theyd left somewhere in recent memory, it had been in a panicked rush.


    Jie and Quinn both bowed to them again.


    We have much to do, Jie said. If theres ever a way we can repay you, please let us know.


    Together with Quinn, he headed back into the city.


    Be exchanged a look with Chance. Then they turned, heading out into the grassy ins and leaving the Brackern Sect behind.

 Chapter 120: Future

    Chapter 120: Future


    A week of travel passed after Chance and Be set out from the Brackern sect, though little of interest had happened in that time. Theyd said little, mostly focusing on travel and cultivation at night.


    Even though theyd all survived with their lives, the looming threat of all the cultivators theyde to make enemies of in the past months still sat at the forefront of their minds. Chance doubted that they were going to be able to take down Vex in the same way  and something told him that even Lin would be far beyond their current abilities to handle if he decided that he wanted to swap sides.


    Then there was the matter of Shae. If he was still alive, Chance doubted that he would have just given up on the hunt. Be shared his feelings of tension, so they had been spending almost all their free time either deep in thought or within the embrace of cultivation.


    But, as the Brackern Sect faded into the distance behind them, there was only so long the two of them could remainpletely focused. Even though there were still threats looming in the distance, the horizon looked clear.


    It feels like its been a bit since it was just the two of us, doesnt it? Be asked after theyd stopped for the day to set up camp.


    Weve been traveling alone for a week since we left, Chance pointed out with augh. But yeah, I know what you mean. It feels like a month passed between thest part of the Ancient Realm and dealing with the Brackern Sect, even though it was just a few days.


    And its not like weve been doing all that much talking as ofte. Walking in a straight line for days on end is surprisingly draining, Be said. They were both silent for a few moments. Be knelt by their unlit campfire and used a piece of flint from their travel packs to light a me at its base. She leaned back and let out a huff. Has your cultivation been making good progress?


    No major changes since we left the sect, Chance admitted as he sat down next to her, rubbing the back of his neck. The air between them was a little more awkward than usual  and though both of them would have pointed to being tired, that had been arge part of why theyd been talking so little over thest week.


    Without the imminent threat of death, Chances borderline-confession suddenly felt a lot more embarrassing to bring up, and the state of pure calm that hed had during the city seemed to evade him when he didnt have a major threat to contend with.


    A breeze rustled through the clearing and the fire sputtered. Chance raised his eyes, letting them roam over their surroundings. It was nothing but grass and scattered, thin trees. Thats all it had been for the past week, and it didnt show any signs of stopping soon.


    Theyd just been letting his karma guide them, but Chance was starting to wonder if their months of exile from Gleam would end up running out before they actually reached  well, wherever it was that his karma was taking them.


    <em>But, once it does end, and if we survive what then? Vex will still be hunting us. Lin is still out there, and I dont even know what Yeos dealing with on his end. Theres something wrong with his dad, thats for sure. </em>


    <em>And then theres me. Do I just keep trying to get stronger, or do I try to go find my parents? Or something else entirely? When Im allowed back to Gleam, do I even really want to go?</em>


    What are you going to do after all this? Be asked, somehownding on the exact same thing that Chances own thoughts were on.


    I was just thinking about that, Chance admitted. Ill be honest. I dont know. Ive gone with the flow for so long that thinking about actually intentionally choosing a path is intimidating. Letting my karma just guide me forever is pretty tempting, but I know thats not the way to do it either. Its a tool, not a crutch.


    Be sighed and nodded. I know the feeling. At least youve got some direction though, right? You know you want to eventually find your parents.


    Yeah. Chance caught the implication of Bes words. And you dont?


    Beyond eventually killing Vex, nothing. Thats probably not a good thing. Ive just never had the opportunity to even think about life beyond that. We havent exactly gotten a lot of slow moments to think as ofte. If it isnt one thing trying to kill us, its another.


    Dont jinx us. Chanceughed, and the fire crackled as another breeze blew through the camp. Be ran a hand through her hair, and Chance was struck with an urge to do the same. He repressed it  until he made good on his promise, it wouldnt be right. Well, nows one of those times.


    Thats the problem, Be muttered, looking at Chance out of the corner of her eyes. I almost wish it wasnt. I cant punch the future. I prefer enemies that I can actually fight against. Even with Vex, I feel like I can actually do something. You know?


    Cant argue with that, but I think you might be looking at the future wrong. Maybe thats the source of the trouble?


    What do you mean? Be frowned.


    Chances brow furrowed as he searched for the right words. After a moment, he gave up and just spoke without trying to find the best way to say it. The future is just the future, you know? Theres no point worrying about it. Youll just suffer twice.


    Thats easy to say when youre a Karma cultivator, Be said with augh.


    I can see why youd think that, but I havent always been a Karma cultivator, Chance pointed out. Back on Earth, I was just a homeless kid. I basically didnt have a future with the way things were.


    Turning away from the fire, Be focused her full attention on him. She pulled her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. So what did you do then?


    I kind of just moved along. I didnt worry too much about the future or what it would hold. That wasnt in my control. I just did what I could every day. Thats what I try to do now, even though Ive actually got some real goals.


    Werent you worried?


    Chance shrugged. I think it would be weird not to worry at all. I dont think you should let fear rule you either, though. Work to prepare yourself for a future you want, but dont sacrifice the present for tomorrow.


    Thats philosophical, Be said with a wry smile. A quote?


    From my dad. But what Im trying to say is I dont think you need to have a concrete goal in mind. I mean, its a great thing to have a goal, but if you dont, you shouldnt beat yourself up about it. Just do your best to enjoy the present and take steps so that, once the future does roll around, youll be able to meet it.


    Be didnt reply immediately. They sat in silence for a few moments, watching the fire crackle before them.


    What if I never figure out what to do? I cant just sit around doing nothing forever.


    Its hardly doing nothing, Chance replied. Weve been helping people. Thats never a waste. Even if all you do is help people, I view that as a life well lived. Thats not to say I dont have things I want to aplish other than that, but Im sure youll figure out what you want eventually. Youve only been out from Vexs thumb for a few months, Be. Dont be so hard on yourself.


    Be let out a huff, then looked back to Chance. If thats the case, why havent you said anything about what we talked about in the Brackern sect?


    Chance froze. What?


    You said you want to live in the moment, but you promised youd bring it up again once things calmed down, Be said crossly. And you still havent. Whats going on?


    I  uh Chances ears reddened and he cleared his throat. waiting for the right time?


    You basically already confessed! Be eximed. The least you could do is actually follow up on it. Ive been waiting for a week, you know.


    I didnt want to make things about me when we were talking about your future and stuff, Chance said sheepishly. And Ill admit that its kind of embarrassing. I felt a lot bolder then than I do now.


    We are literally talking about it, Be said. You started things. Finish them  unless youve changed your mind?


    No, definitely not! Chance said quickly, raising his hands. He mirrored Bes huff, then shifted so he was looking straight at her. He steadied himself for a moment.


    <em>Be basically asked me to confess, so that means she likes me back, right? Or am I reading too much into things and does she just want to clear the air? I  </em>


    Chance, Be said, her voice dangerous. She watched him through narrow eyes. Dont make me ask you again.


    Fine! Ive developed romantic feelings toward you, Chance said quickly, practically forcing the words out before he could stop himself. The temptation to pull on his Essence to give himself courage was strong, but something about fully confessing while using magic as a crutch didnt feel right. If he was going to do it, then he was going to do it right. Im not sure if you feel the same way, but if you do


    The rest of Chances sentence was cut off as Be leaned forward and pressed her lips to his. His eyes widened and he froze for an instant. Then he sank into the kiss, wrapping his arms around her.


    Be pulled back a secondter, just enough so she could arch an eyebrow at him. There. Hows that for a response? If you hadnt taken so damn long to ask, then you would have gotten it way earlier.


    Point taken. Chances heart thumped in his chest like a runaway racehorse. He couldnt keep a grin from his face. Thats a pretty damn effective method of encouragement.


    It is, isnt it? Be asked with a wry smile.


    She kissed him again.


    And just for a little longer, neither of them thought about what the future held.

 Chapter 121: Story

    Chapter 121: Story


    Jade batted arge, buzzing insect away from her face, cursing under her breath. Despite what shed told Chance and Be, shed fully expected some degree of disciplinary action from the Shikari after she reported her failure to capture her targets.


    But, when shed returned to Gleam, Shae had been nowhere to be found. Shed went to find Gibson, he was missing as well. Jade had ended up reporting her results to J, who didnt look like she possibly could have cared less.


    Jade had originally thought that was a good thing. If nobody was there, her crushing defeat in the mission might actually slip under the notice of anyone of importance. Shed waited around the city for a few days just in case, but nobody ever came knocking.


    The temptation to sit around and do nothing for a few days was strong, but Jade had pushed through it. Shed promised Chance and Be to find their friend, and she wasnt going to sit around and do nothing while another innocent person got butchered by whoever was after them.


    That was how she found herself stumbling through a smoldering hot jungle, batting aggressive insects away as sweat poured down her brow. Her clothes stuck to her back and every breath cameden with the scent of heavy moss and a faint tinge of dead animal.


    Who choses a ce like this to hide? Jade muttered to herself. She cursed as she tripped over a protruding tree branch and grabbed onto its rough bark to catch her bnce.


    Letting out a long suffering sigh, Jade squinted through the dense canopy above her. There was still sun trickling in through the gaps in the leaves, but she couldnt even tell what time it was anymore.


    The heat was quickly growing oppressive, and while it wasnt posing a real threat to her, she couldnt remember thest time shed been this ufortable. Jade pulled her shirt away from her back, grimacing as it stuck to her skin.


    Where in the world is Yeo? If I didnt promise to do this, I would have turned around a day ago.


    If you werentining so much, you might have heard me behind you.


    Jade leapt nearly a foot into the air, spinning and grabbing the hilt of her sword. A dark haired boy leaned against a tree behind her, his tanned skin crisscrossed with fading scars. He held a ck sword in a loose grip in one hand. The hair on Jades neck stiffened. Despite the boys rxed posture, something about him set her on edge.


    Yeo?


    Good guess, Shikari, Yeo replied, spinning the sword in his hand. How many of you do I have to kill before you get the message? I dont mind the training, but its kind of a hassle at this point. You could at least send people that are a bit stronger.


    Jades brow furrowed. Yeo was acting exactly how shed expected Chance to act when shed first met him. They couldnt have been more different  and, unlike Chance, she didnt feel safe in the slightest beside him.


    She slowly drew her sword, holding it before her. Youve been killing Shikari?


    Training against them after they keep sending people after me, Yeo corrected her. They do end up dying as a result, though. Im surprised you havent attacked yet. Did you get wise enough to try an ambush or something?


    No, Im here on my own.


    <em>Maybe hes just putting on an act to keep people away from him? It was reported that the Shikariing after Yeo went missing, though. Has he actually just been murdering Shikari? I guess its self-defense, but he doesnt seem too bothered about killing anyone. </em>


    Thats a disappointment, Yeo said with a frown. He pushed himself away from the tree and raised his sword. I hope youre stronger than you look, at least. Considering youre hunting a dangerous criminal, you arent very prepared. Are you going to raise your defenses or anything? This is going to be way too easy if you dont.


    <em>This guy is dangerous. Somethings going on here, but I dont think this is the person that Chance was talking about. Hes a threat. </em>


    Chance said you were a friend, so I didnt think Id need to do something like that. Jade adjusted her chance, keeping her sword between them as she prepared to draw on her Essence. It looks like he might have been deluded.


    Yeo blinked. He lowered his sword before narrowing his eyes and pointing it at Be. Chance? Where did you meet him? Did the Shikari catch up with him?


    I dont know if Im going to answer that. Jade pulled more Essence, enveloping her body in a faint yellow glow. You arent like him at all. Maybe the Shikari were right to try to eliminate you. Did Chance and Be just get caught up in something you started?


    Yeo grunted. He flicked a finger and a thin steel wire sliced through the air toward Jades side, suddenly pulled taut. She shifted her sword, catching the line on the edge of her de before it could bite into her flesh.


    Not bad, Yeo said, inclining his head slightly. Youre not going to drop my guard that easily though, Shikari. You really think that youre the first one to show up talking about my friends? Thats not going to work.


    He darted toward Jade, ribbons of neigh-invisible metal swirling from his fingertips as they caught the light. Jade dove to the side. Her Essence armor red as metal carved against it, scraping past and failing to cut her flesh.


    She rolled to her feet, swinging her sword for Yeos chest. He blocked the blow with his thin de and a violent tremor ran down the hilt of her sword and into her arms with enough intensity to force her to break her grip on it.


    Jade swept her leg, trying to take Yeos feet out from under him. He jumped over the move and Jade felt several more metal lines grate against her back. She rolled to the side a moment before Yeo drove his de into the earth where shed been, burying it up to the hilt.


    He jerked the de to the side and it swept through the dirt as if nothing was there. Jade drove her foot up into Yeos chest,unching him back. He vaulted off his hands andnded on his feet, skidding a foot back.


    Jade stood, watching Yeo warily. They locked eyes for several seconds, neither of them speaking.


    That it? Yeo asked. Youre not trying very hard to kill me. If you dont make things a little more interesting, Ill just end them here.


    Youre the one that tried to kill me, Jade pointed out. Essence gathered around her sword, crackling with power as she drew more of it into the de. Im not so sure Chance would approve of your methods. He was worried about you for some reason, but thats just like him. But I dont see how the guy that was sad that he couldnt save every single person while fighting Rank Six cultivators would ever consider someone like you a friend.


    A frown passed over Yeos face. That actually does sound like Chance. You really know him?


    Thats what I said. Are you an idiot?


    Now you sound like Be, Yeo said. His eyes narrowed and he pointed his sword at Jade. Who are you?


    Youre normally supposed to ask my name before you try to kill me, Jade said, not letting her guard down in the slightest. Its Jade. Come at me again and youll find out just how good I am at fighting.


    <em>Not that Ive had the most luck as ofte. I havent had a good fight since before Chance bailed me out fighting that crocodile monster, but Im not losing a fight to some murderous Rank 3 after everything that just happened. </em>


    Maybe we got off on the wrong foot, Yeo said. He passed a hand over his sword and the de vanished. Jade caught a sh of the hilt as he slipped it into a pocket and raised his hands, palms toward her. I thought you were a Gleam thug. Did you actually meet Chance and Be?


    Yes. They asked me to check on you. Gods know why. Theyd be better off without you, I think.


    Come on, Yeo said with a sheepish grin. You cant hold that over my head. Ive had people trying to cut my guts out for weeks, you know. Only an idiot would just sit around and actually believe someone that came along iming to know their friends.


    Youd think youd at least do your due diligence and find out if I was actually lying or not before you tried to kill me, Jade said. What if you killed someone innocent?


    The grin on Yeos face faded as his eyes darkened. Trust me. Nobodying here is innocent. What was your name again?


    Jade. She let out an annoyed huff, then wiped the sweat from her forehead with the back of a hand. The fight hadnt helped her cool off in the slightest. I think this counts as you being checked-on, though. Alive, check. Crazy murderer, also check.


    <em>Is it even right for me to leave someone like this around? Hes killing people  but I feel like Chance wouldnt be friends with a monster like that, right? Are the Shikari in the wrong yet again? </em>


    You dont look too happy, Yeo observed.


    I am not, Jade replied tly. Im trying to figure out if I need to try to kill you or not.


    Very upfront. Respectable.


    I wasnt joking.


    Oh, neither was I. Yeo shed Jade a grin. You look soaked, by the way. Need to dry off? Im not letting you leave without you telling me how Chance and Be are doing.


    Jades eyes narrowed. Is that a threat?


    Do you want it to be?


    Well see, Jade said. She pulled at her shirt again, then sheathed her sword and shook her head. Fine. Chance trusted you, so Ill go out on a limb and listen to his advice. Hopefully it doesnt get me as close to death as thest time.


    Yeoughed. He turned into the trees and beckoned for Jade to follow after him. And, against her better judgement, she did.


    A few minutester, Jade found herself standing in a small cave. Light filtered in through the opening behind her, illuminating a mossy bed and a pile of weapons and armor in the corner. Arge pack of rations had fallen on its side beside the bed, spilling out dry jerky and cheese.


    Who are those from? Jade asked, pointing at the armor.


    Yeo raised an eyebrow. Just take your shirt off and dry out already. Do you really want to start a fight again?


    I am not


    He didnt wait for her to respond. Yeo knelt by the pack and dug through it, pulling out a in cloth shirt and tossing it to Jade. He straightened back out and brushed his knees off. Im going to walk out into the forest and Ill stay there for a minute exactly. Then Iming back  so either be changed by then or be content with me watching.


    Yeo winked, then strode out of the cave. Jade nced over her shoulder at him, then looked down at her shirt. She heaved a sigh. It really was soaked, and it wasnt going to get any morefortable.


    She stripped out of it, briefly wiping herself off before pulling the new one on.


    <em>I hate this damn overheated jungle. I cant even imagine how anything survives in here. </em>


    All done? Yeo asked, stepping back into the cave.


    Yes. Has it already been a minute?


    Just about. Ill be honest, I didnt count it. I figured youd make a decision one way or another pretty quickly.


    Jade shrugged. I suppose you were right. So, answer the question. Who are these from? Shikari?


    Who do you think? Theyve been sending them after me for a while now. No point wasting good gear. That a problem?


    I suppose well see. Ill hear you out.


    Tell me about Chance and Be first.


    Theyre doing fine. They just demolished a ver sects leading body by getting a massive dragon to pop out from under the ground and kill multiple Rank Five and Six cultivators in a single second.


    Yeo let out a slow whistle. That sounds like Chance all right. Are they safe?


    About as safe as one can be outside of a Schr City. They were doing fine thest time I talked to them, and that was a few days ago.


    Good. Yeo let out a relieved sigh. I was worried they might have things worse than I do, but it sounds like theyre doing all right. Howd you end up meeting them in the first ce?


    Jade cleared her throat and nced to the side. I was hunting them, but I met Chance on ident while he was helping save a small town. I tailed him for a while, but they convinced me that the Shikari had things wrong and that you were all innocent. Not so sure thats true anymore.


    Theyre innocent, Yeo said. He nced down at the pile of weapons on the ground, then shrugged. Im not so sure about me, but the Shikari came looking for blood. Im not Chance. I wont show mercy to peopleing to take my life.


    I suppose I cant fault you for that  for now, at least. Im going to need to know more, though. Tell me about why the Shikari are after all of you. I want to see if your story matches up with Chances.


    Oh? Yeo raised an eyebrow. And if it doesnt?


    Then I do what I need to in order to protect the people of Gleam from a threat.


    Yeo grinned. Well see. Ive been training a lot, and I wont pass up the opportunity to keep at it. Though, if you want the whole story, it might be wise to sit down. Itll be a bit.

 Chapter 122: Uh oh & Announcement!

    Chapter 122: Uh oh & Announcement!


    On the third week of travel, Chance and Be reached a town. It was smaller than the Brackern sect and built atop arge, t-topped hill. Crumbling stone walls surrounded it, bleached a dull gray by years of beating from the sun.


    Rooftops poked out over the wall in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. It didnt look like there had been any form of nning that had gone into the citys construction. It had simply been constructed.


    Some houses were several stories tall, towering over the rest of the city and made out of wood. They teetered precariously in the wind, but had been propped up by a concerning mixture of steel and stone beams to keep them standing.


    Others were stout and made of pure stone, just barely sticking out enough to see. Even the gate looked like the builders had changed their minds midway through making it. The left half of it was polished stone, while the right was a wrought iron gate.


    Three guards stood at the gate, wearing dirty white robes and sitting in a circle. By the time Chance and Be were close enough to see better, it became apparent that they were ying with a deck of cards.


    One of the men  bald, withrge ears and a big mouth  looked up at them as they approached, then smiled and waved his hand in greeting. He set his hand of cards down, then pushed himself to his feet and brushed his backside off.


    Ho there, travelers! the man called, raising a hand in greeting. What brings you to the town of Follen?


    Hello, Chance called back with a smile. Thepleteck of concern on the guards side meant they were eitherplete fools that werent doing their jobs  or they were so powerful that they werent worried about anything that Chance or Be could do. And nothing in particr. Were just passing through, heading in what we hope is the direction of a Schr City. Are we on the right path?


    Right enough, the guard said with a rxed chuckle. Itll be a week or two before you make it, though. nning to stop in Follen, or will you just be moving past?


    We dont have a lot to spend, Be whispered into Chances ear. We can probably afford one night of sleep at an actual inn if we want to, though.


    Probably not worth it, unless you want to, Chance whispered back.


    Agreed. No need, then. We can just keep going.


    Chance started to nod, but paused. There was something in the guards expression that just felt off. Not in a negative way  the man genuinely just felt happy to see them for no particr reason  but there was still something that wasnt clicking.


    Or rather, it was something that clicked too well.


    <em>Ive seen you somewhere before. I feel like Id recognize that face. Its very memorable. </em>


    Is something the matter? the guard asked.


    I  do I know you? Chances brow furrowed. He squinted, and the air around the guard shimmered faintly.


    The mans eyes widened for a moment before he let slip a deepugh. His voice changed, turning rougher and more feminine, as hair sprouted from his head and his body shifted. Within seconds, the guards features had been reced by the kindly expression and graying hair of Lucy, the karma cultivator that had taught him hisbat style.


    Ill be damned, Chance, Lucy said, shaking her head with a wry smile. Look at how far youve grown. Youre already tapping into the Karmic Weave at your rank? Thats genuinely impressive. Well done.


    Lucy! Chance eximed. He sent an eager nce at Be, who was looking between them in confusion.


    Who is this? Be asked.


    This is one of my teachers. She taught me how to fight, Chance said. Shes also a Karma cultivator, by the way. What are you doing here, though? Were in the middle of nowhere.


    A Karma cultivator is always exactly where they want to be, Lucy said. She sent a wink at Be. Pleasure to meet you, dear. I hope youll forgive the game  Ive got a vested interest in Chances progress. Please,e visit for a short while. I know some of what youve been going through these past few weeks, and Id like to speak. I believe I have something important to share with you.


    Bes lips pursed. She looked to Chance. Your call.


    I trust her, Chance said. And, if its free, we could probably use a day of rest.


    You definitely do, Lucy said, striding up to them and flicking Chance in the forehead. Keep up this level of stress and you might start graying before youre twenty. You and Be need to take some time to rx. Come with me. Well talk businesster.


    Chance started to nod, then paused. Is it free? Theres give and take for everything.


    Lucy smiled. It is not free, but youve already paid the price for it.


    Thats ominous, Be said, looking at Chance in concern.


    It is, Lucy said, not an ounce of humor in her voice. She turned back toward the city, and Chance realized that the other two guards that had been sitting outside together with her were gone. Come along.


    They strode into Follen. The street wove between buildings, even running straight through the middle of some that had been built on stilts to avoid blocking anyones passage. The entire city felt like Chance was looking into the mirror at a carnival fun house.


    Lucy? Chance asked as they ducked under a house that had been built sideways and straight across the road, leaving only about five feet of room to pass beneath it. Is something off about this city? It doesnt quite seem right, but Im not getting any dangerous feelings from it either.


    Fallen is more than just a city, Lucy replied. Itll make more sense once we get to our destination. Youre not in any danger here, if thats what youre worried about.


    So the people that live here just really like strange architecture? Be squinted up at a bell tower where the bell had been installed upside-down.


    Oh, no. Lucy shook her head and they came to a stop before a door  one without an actual building. It was just a in wooden door that sat on the side of the road, leading to absolutely nowhere. Nobody lives here. They just visit.


    The door creaked open, revealing a warmly lit dining room. It was already set for four, and heaping piles of food sat upon the stark white tablecloth. Despite the oddness surrounding the entire situation, Chance swallowed. He couldnt smell anything, but the meal looked delicious. Brilliant red lobster poked out of a sea of seasoned butter. Soft, glistening rolls bulged in baskets beside it, and every sort of sd and appetizer he could imagine had beenid out.


    Lucy stepped inside without a second of hesitation, pulling out one of the chairs and sitting down. She sent an expectant nce at Chance and Be who, after a moment, followed her in.


    As soon as Be stepped through the door, it vanished behind them. The moment Chance was inside, the smell of the meal hit him like a truck and his mouth started watering instantly. He pulled out a chair for Be, who sent him an appreciative nod as she cautiously sat down. Chance sat between her and Lucy, leaving the seat across from them open.


    The room around the three had no other entrances or exits. It was just in wallpaper. If Chance had followed anyone else in, he would have started getting concerned around now. He reached under the table, brushing the back of his hand against Bes knee.


    She nced at Chance and he gave her a slight nod to indicate that there was nothing to be worried about. His Essence told him that this really was Lucy, and she wasnt going to try to hurt them.


    The sponsor of your meal today isnt quite here yet. Im not sure when hell arrive, so please feel free to start eating, Lucy said. I know youre both hungry.


    I dont mind waiting a little, Be said, even though it was clear that she very much did. Id like to meet whoever is feeding us.


    Polite. Lucy gave her an approving nod.


    Be chewed her lower lip. Im not sure Id say polite. I dont want to eat food from somebody that might want something from me. Ill feel more obligated to say yes if they ask something, so Id rather figure out their goal first.


    Lucy burst intoughter. Ah, spoken like a Karma cultivator. Very well. What of you, Chance?


    Its not like we havent eaten anything recently. Im not about to starve to death, so I can wait.


    Lucy scrunched her nose in annoyance. She leaned back in her chair, pushing the front two legs off the ground, as a faint glimmering light lit above the final chair. The light unfolded and a young man appeared within it  and young man might have been stretching it.


    He was fifteen at the oldest, with the most brilliant blue eyes that Chance had ever seen. His blonde hair was so pale that it was nearly white, and he wore in cloth robes that Chance would have sworn werent much more than rags, but they somehow just felt <em>right. </em>


    I hate you, Lucy said.


    No, you dont, the boy replied with a gentleugh. You do hate losing bets, though. Its unfortunate that youre so good at losing them.


    Be sent Chance a look to see if he knew who the neer was, but Chance just shook his head.


    Thank you foring. My name is Rilu, the boy said, inclining his head respectfully. I have been wanting to speak with you for quite some time.


    The way Rilu spoke was nothing like what Chance had expected. His voice didnt fit his youthful body at all. Even though he physically sounded young, Rilus words held the soft confidence that only came with immense power or age.


    Chance? Be asked.


    Both of you, Rilu replied. But that can wait until we have finished dinner. Please, eat. This foodes freely, and I will ask nothing of you today. As Lucy has already told you, you have already paid for it.


    If thats the case, would you be willing to say what bet it was that Lucy lost?


    She thought that you would both start eating before I arrived. I believed you would wait. Rilu took a loaf of bread and took a bite out of it. He let out a satisfied sigh, then sent them a pointed nce.


    Chance didnt need to be told twice. He and Be both piled food onto the tes before them, and all four of them dug in.


    True to Rilus word, nobody spoke until the entirety of the small feast had been polished off. The four cultivators rocked back in their chairs, satisfied expressions on their faces. Chance had never tasted lobster before, and it tasted every bit as good as he had imagined it would.


    Finally, once everyone had finished their meals, the rxed air faded away as Rilu syed his fingers out across the table. I hope you enjoyed your meal. Forgive me, but I will skip directly to the point. I have been watching both of you for some time, but I found myself unwilling to sit by the sidelines any longer.


    Chance and Be watched him expectantly. The tone of Rilus voice left no doubt that there was a reason for his decision, and their suspicions were proven right a momentter.


    I have seen the Threads of Fate. Vex is fed up with the Shikaris inability to pin you down and has set out himself. In two weeks, he will find you. And, in two weeks, you will both die.

 Gleam is out on Amazon! (A Chapter was released together with this one)

    Gleam is out on Amazon! (A Chapter was released together with this one)


    Hey all! Gleam is finally out on amazon and I wanted to make a special post for it. I''ve really loved writing this novel and I hope you''ve all enjoyed reading it thus far. And check out the cover, this thing is beautiful:


    If you''ve enjoyed Gleam, a rating/download/review would go a MASSIVE way. I''m not joking when I say every single reader and rating goes a huge distance in helping theunch do well. As a full time author, I''d really like to continue writing Gleam, but I do need to make sure it does well enough on ''zon to justify that. Thanks again so much for reading and enjoying thus far, and cheers!


    Actus

 Chapter 123: Riloose

    Chapter 123: Riloose


    Huh, Chance said, rubbing his chin with a frown. That sucks.


    Lucy and Rilu stared at Chance in undisguised shock, but an amused grin flickered across Bes lips before she got her expression back under control.


    Thats not the reaction I expected, Rilu said, tilting his head to the side in befuddlement. Have I missed something? Or do you simply just not care about your life?


    Probably neither of the two, although I really dont know how much your Essence let you know. Its just that weve been at risk, of dying for so long, Im surprised its been this long before someone told us that we were definitely going to die. Chance rubbed the back of his head. And, to be honest, I dont imagine you called me here just to say I was about to get killed and kick me out the door. That wouldnt serve any purpose. That means that you probably either have a solution, a warning, or some mixture of the two.


    Rilu was silent for several seconds. Then he let out a delicateugh and gave Chance a respectful nod. Its rare that I meet someone your age this insightful. If I didnt know any better, I would have thought youve a Karma cultivator for a hundred years.


    Thanks, I think. So what are we supposed to do about Vex? That <em>is </em>why you showed up, right? Because  and I mean no disrespect by this  but if Im actually about to get killed, Id rather spend my time in a different way.


    Rilusughter intensified and he sent a pointed nce at Lucy. You said he was so mild mannered that he wouldnt even think about insulting a cockroach. Looks like you got your read wrong, Lucy.


    Evidently hes grown a bit. Lucy gave Chance an approving nod. Good for him. And the rest of us arent immortal, you little shit. We actually value our time. Why dont you spit it out already?


    <em>Immortal? Shit. Hes even stronger than I was thinking. How powerful do you have to be so that you cant die? Or is immortal different from invulnerable? Either way, hes got to be really high up there in the ranks. Maybe he could just kill Vex for us?</em>


    I know what youre thinking, Rilu said, his smile fading as he grew more serious. He leaned forward, bracing his forearms on the table and intecing his fingers. I cant kill Vex for you.


    Why not? Be asked. Youre at least a Rank Seven if youre immortal. Vex is a Rank 6. Killing him should be childs y to you, right?


    Nothing is simple for a Karma cultivator. I am bound by a set of rules that a cultivator of any other Essence would never understand. Even Chance is still too young to properly feel the intricacies of the Weave of Fate. Karma is a vast Essence, and it is one that is not forgiving of our choices. Killing someone who has no karmic connection to me would be akin to you carving one of your own eyes out.


    Be opened her mouth but stopped herself from saying anything. She sent a look at Chance that said <em>so why not just build Karmic ties with us?</em>


    Evidently, Be decided that actually voicing her words would be a little too rude for people that they didnt really know. Chance was pretty sure that Lucy was kind and wouldnt have taken offense, but it was probably wiser to y things a little closer to the safe side.


    Can you even help at all, then? Chance asked. Doing anything would create Karmic ties between you and Vex, wouldnt it? If were going to die with the way things are currently going and you suddenly step in and help, that means you directly influenced the change. That should establish Karmic ties.


    Rilu smiled. You are correct to a degree. However, the more control one gains over Karma, the more the rules can be bent. A direct interference is indeed too much for me, but slight shifts  whos to say what they amount to? Certainly not I.


    So youre ying chicken with the universe, Be finished, her eyes twinkling in mild amusement. Karma cultivators are a little insane.


    We most certainly are, Rilu agreed. He spread his arms out and the food on the table vanished as it cleared itself. I have been thinking about what I can offer you, Chance. Originally, I had thought about taking you on as an apprentice. That is no longer an option.


    Be blinked. Her hands twitched as she visibly stopped herself from speaking. Rilu nced at her and waved his hand in an encouraging motion. You dont need to restrain yourself, Be. I know your nature from observing you and Chance and if I were a man to take offense to anything a Rank Two told me, I would be a very poor man.


    <em>Im pretty sure that was basically an insult, but I dont think he meant it as one. Were just so far below Rilu that he genuinely cant ever see himself getting pissed off at something we tell him. </em>


    Why cant you take him on as an apprentice? Be asked.


    Because Yamish has already done that, Rilu replied. And Yamish is too powerful for me to interfere with.


    Stronger than you?


    Rilu grimaced. Considerably. He follows a different path  one that is far more willing to let him kill when he needs to. I am restrained in ways that he will never be. No, I cant actually do anything to Chance beyond speak with him. Yamish would know if I did more.


    Then whats the point? Be asked, her brow furrowed. Just to provide us with a nice meal? I appreciate that, of course. Its just


    Not enough, Rilu said with an understanding smile. Yes, I know. I have spent some time considering that very question. I have no desire to bring myself into true conflict with Yamish. It would be a fight that would go poorly for both of us. However, Vex is a gue on Centurion. He is a vile man, and the Weave would rejoice with his death. Much debt would be released as he passed on.


    Lucy rolled her eyes. Rilu is a long-winded little shit. Ignore how he looks. Hes a hundred times older than the two of you, and he likes to prattle for far too long. Just get to the point, old man.


    The person I can help is <em>you</em>, Be, Rilu said,pletely unperturbed by Lucys outburst. Something told Chance that he was probably used to it by this point. They clearly knew each other fairly well.


    Me? Be blinked. What, are you going to give me a secret weapon or something to kill Vex? Im not sure Ill get the chance to actually use it hes trying to kill me, but Ill take anything I can get.


    Not a weapon. As you guessed, that would do little. However, knowledge is much easier to share. Youve made recent advancements with your Essence, yes?


    Be nodded, but there was a moment of hesitation before she responded. Yes.


    But not enough. You are still finding yourself at odds with your Path. Advancements never seem to bring you as much understanding as youve been hoping for, do they?


    Shock passed over Bes features. She gave Rilu another nod. Yeah. I think its because I swapped my Path after leaning on Vexs coattails for so long. Im sure that probably ended up holding me back and Im still getting over it.


    You are unfortunately correct. Your mind is muddled. Even if you survive Vex, your current Path will not take you beyond Rank Four.


    Chances skin prickled. He couldnt even get angry or defensive for Be  shed voiced her concerns about her Path in the past. There wasnt any malice in Rilus voice. He was simply speaking what he believed to be fact.


    Are you bringing this up because you think you can fix it? Be asked hesitantly, a tiny note of hope entering her voice.


    Rilu inclined his head. We must speak alone. Lucy, would you mind?


    Lucy heaved a sigh and nodded. She rose to her feet. A pir of golden light enveloped her and she vanished with a pop. Chance looked back to Rilu, then froze as he realized that the same golden light was falling over him.


    What? Chance asked. Wait


    Chance vanished.


    ***


    What did you do with him? Be demanded, jumping to her feet. Her chair fell back behind her, but it somehow managed to right itself before it hit the floor. Rilu didnt budge from his spot at the table. He just gestured for Be to sit back down.


    Please. Sit. Do you really think I would hurt him? And, if I was going to, do you really think there was anything you could do about it?


    Be pressed her lips together. After a moment, she sat back down.


    Thank you, Rilu said. He syed his fingers out over the table. The answer to your question is yes. I can aid you in repairing the damage to your Path.


    At what cost? Be asked without a second of hesitation. Nothing like thates for free.


    No, it doesnt. A small smile flickered across Rilus face. There are two costs. The first is personal  and the extent of it is unknown to me. You maye out unscathed, or you may die. It depends on you.


    Figures. And the other?


    A favor. One that you will not be opposed to doing.


    Be waited, but Rilu didnt say anything else.


    Are you going to say what it is?


    No. I havent decided yet.


    <em>Damned Karma cultivators. Ill need to make sure Chance doesnt start spewing out a bunch of oracle bullshit. </em>


    Fine. Bes shoulders slumped, but her eyes burned with determination. Im obviously not going to pass up the opportunity to fix my broken ass Path. Chance trusts you, so Ill do the same.


    Actually, he trusts Lucy, Rilu corrected with a wry chuckle. But yes, that is functionally the same. Ill ask again  are you certain you want to do this?


    Do I have a choice? Be raised an eyebrow. If I dont, we get killed by Vex. This will be what gives us a way to win, right?


    A small one, Rilu allowed. It may be some time before Vex finds you, though. You have the option of living your life as it is. Time is precious.


    With all due respect, if I can choose between months or forever, then Im going to take forever.


    Spoken like a true cultivator. Very well, Be. Then we will begin.


    Rilu drew in a deep breath. Be tensed  she wasnt sure what she was expecting, but she was expecting <em>something</em>. Instead, Rilu just let the breath out and leaned back in his chair.


    What is your purpose?


    I  what?


    Your reason to live. The drive that motivates you.


    Uh I guess it would be protecting people?


    The look that Rilu sent Be was so dry that she nearly withered beneath it.


    What?


    That is not your real answer, Rilu said, shaking his head. You must answer <em>honestly</em>. If we begin the process and you cannot be true to yourself, then you perish.


    Be threw her hands up. I dont know, then. I barely just got out of being a pawn. I havent really figured out what I want to do.


    That is more urate. It does not feelplete to me, though. There is more. Rip deep into your soul for the core of who you are, Be. Not the answer you wish to find, but the one that is true.


    Clenching her fists, Be forced her eyes shut and dug through her mind. The exercise seemedpletely pointless.


    <em>Those were the answers, damn it. Thats actually what I want. </em>


    I wasnt lying. Be opened her eyes and stared Rilu down. Thats what I believe.


    Rilu raised an eyebrow, then shrugged. If you are certain. Conviction will take you far. If this is the way you wish to do things, then we will proceed.


    Proceed with what, exactly? How are you going to fix my Path?


    Me? I wont fix it, Rilu said with a soft, almost sad look on his expression. You will. I will simply enable you to have the chance.


    How, exactly?


    Rilu rose from his seat. Golden bands wound around Bes limbs and pulled her back into her chair, tightening as she instinctively struggled against them.


    Calm yourself, Rilu said. The table vanished as he walked straight through it, stopping directly before her and pressing his hand to her forehead. Breathe. We do not change your Path but instead reveal what it has been all along. You have been chipping away, revealing it piece by piece. However, your method is wed and your tools unsuited.


    What are you going to do? Be demanded.


    Bare your Path to you, Rilu replied. Golden light enveloped his hand, tingling against Bes skin. A small portion of it, in its truest form. It will not be easy. Maintain your grip on this world, and remember that speed is of the essence. If you peer into your soul for too long, it will leave your mortal body behind.


    You mean Ill die if Im too slow?


    Oh, that will happen regardless. A mortal cannot see their true soul without dying. The question is not if you will die  it is if you wille back.


    With that, the golden energy shed. Be slumped forward against her restraints, her limbs falling ck.


    And there, bound in a chair in a well-lit dining room with only a strange, childlike Karma cultivator forpany, Be died.

 Chapter 124: Merim

    Chapter 124: Merim


    Be stood at a beach. The warm sand shifted between her toes and the sun caressed her face, its orange-pink hue lighting the sky in brilliant sunset. The dirt and weariness from weeks of travel was gone, reced only byfort.


    Gentle wavespped against the shore before Be before receding back into the sea, their white frothy caps mixing into the deep, seamless blue.


    It was peaceful.


    Be felt at home, and that was rather odd. Shed never been to a beach before, and she only knew what one looked like from descriptions in books and from what others had told her.


    Another wavepped against the sand, this one pushing far enough to nip at her feet. She hopped back at the slight chill of the water. A softugh echoed out from behind Be and she turned, raising her hands defensively.


    Standing before her was a tall woman, her hands braced against the hilt of a massive, crystal sword. Glistening blue and green armor made of jagged gemstone covered her body, segmented at the joints to allow for movement while not leaving a single opening.


    Her face was covered by a nted visor that only revealed only her lips. Her hair hung damp over her shoulders like a mat of seaweed, and she smelled faintly of salt and fruit.


    Who are you? Where am I? Be asked.


    I trust you would be displeased if I said that you were at the beach?


    Be sent the woman a t stare. Yes. I would. I already gathered that much. But I dont think Im <em>actually </em>at a beach.


    Then where do you think you are? The woman tilted her head to the side, and one corner of her lips quirked up in an amused grin.


    My mind, maybe? Rilu did something to me. I assume that Im somehow looking into my own mind or something like that?


    Very astute! That was actually quite fast.


    So I am?


    Oh, no. Yourepletely wrong. But you came to a conclusion quickly. Thats good. Confidence will take you a great distance, and you can bluff your way through many things.


    Be scrunched her nose. A wave caught the back of her heels and she yelped, jumping into the air before she realized what it had been. The womanughed again.


    Are you going to tell me whats going on? Be asked, edging away from the water to avoid getting surprised again.


    You should learn to enjoy the moment more, the woman suggested. Take some advice from Chance. Your mind dwells only on the future, and it stops you from enjoying what already is. Dont you realize that, if you only look to tomorrow, then you will forget to see today?


    Be rubbed her brow and let out a sigh. I understand youre trying to be deep and philosophical because youre I dont know, but probably someone important. Im really not in the mood for it, though. Im trying to fix my Essence, and I dont know if Im on a time limit.


    Impatient. Cant say I me you, though. Your instincts are correct. In that case, we can speak more inly. The womans sword sank into the ground and the sand closed in over it. She raised her hands in greeting, inclining her head. Greetings, Be. You may call me Merim.


    I take it that youre who Rilu sent me to see, then?


    Merim nodded. I am the one you came to see, yes. You seek to fix your Path.


    I do. Its damaged, and Ive done my best to repair it before, but I think Rilu is right. Ive swapped and modified things too many times, and Vexs influence hasnt helped at all. If I dont repair things now, then I might never get another chance.


    Merim walked past Be and stepped into the sea. The waves passed around her, frothing as they swirled around her armor. You are not incorrect. Your Path is gravely damaged.


    So then you understand


    However, Merim raised a finger, cutting Be off. The reason your Path is damaged is none of the ones that you have stated.


    What?


    The only one in control of your Path is <em>you</em>, Be. You asked me to speak inly, so I will. Vex did horrible things to you, but he did not choose your Path for you. <em>You </em>chose your Path. Perhaps that was the right decision, perhaps it was not. But you chose it. Then, when you decided to change the direction in which you went, it was not Vexs influence that weakened your Path.


    Bes brow creased in confusion. I dont understand. Youre telling me the reason my Path ispletely screwed up is because what, Im just terrible at cultivating?


    It is not your skill with cultivation that is causing your difficulty. It is you.


    Wow, Be said dryly. That was really kind of you. Thanks.


    Youre wee, Merim replied, not a single trace of sarcasm in her voice. You <em>did </eme here for help, yes?


    I  well, yeah. I did. Hows this meant to help, though?


    Understanding is the key to all things. If you understood your Path perfectly, then you would already be a god.


    Well, theres an exaggeration if I ever heard one.


    Merim turned back to look at Be. Am I wrong?


    I guess not, but you cant justpletelyprehend a Path out of nowhere. Even if someone showed up and told you every single bit of it, you wouldnt truly understand. All that information would probably just make things harder, actually.


    Precisely. Your Path is <em>yours. </em>Others may walk a simr one, but it is not the same. And, if you attempt to follow the Path of another, you will invariably run into the same eventual end. Failure.


    What about what Vex forced me to do? My Path wasnt what he made it. That wasnt me.


    Merim was silent for several seconds. Then she turned back to the sea. When you look at the ocean, what do you see?


    Water.


    A very superficial answer,cking in depth or thought. You seem to think that I am asking these questions of you pointlessly, Be. There is a reason, just as there is in all things. You must learn to value the journey equally to the end.


    What point is there of a journey if theres no end in sight? Be demanded. I know Im supposed to say something like, oh, the water represents life and potential because its full of living creatures or some crap like that, but I really dont care. I just want to unscrew my life and live the way I want to.


    To Bes surprise, that made Merim start tough again. Faint flickers of light danced within the womans armor, bouncing around it like a kaleidoscope.


    Well said. This is your Path. If you do not wish to be philosophical, then why should you be? What is the sea to <em>you, </em>Be? Dont give me the answer you think I want to hear, and dont give me the one that you put no thought into. Give me the truth.


    Bes eyes lifted, passing over the shimmering waves and into the beautiful sky beyond it. A crisp breeze rolled by, rustling her hair and sending a faint shiver down her spine. Merims voice held no more room for casual conversation.


    Something I want to share, Be said softly. I dont want to be alone here. I want to share it with my friends. But, with how weak we are right now, I cant. Theres no way we can sit down and rx like this. Thats why I need to fix my Path and start getting stronger again.


    Merim smiled. Youve changed your Path multiple times already. Why not just do it again?


    Because I cant just keep changing it like that. If it was that easy, Rilu would have helped me do it already. Hes a powerful Karma cultivator. Just the fact that Im here instead of sitting around with him means that this isnt something so simple.


    People have such a way ofplicating things, Merim said with an amused sigh. It is your Path, Be. Not Rilus. Karma is powerful, but it is just another form of Essence. He is only the one that sent you here, not the one that will make decisions.


    Rilu also said Id meet my True Soul or something, but you im that you arent that. He also said that Id have a limited amount of time. It seems like he might have been wrong about a lot of things  or youre lying.


    He was not wrong. He simply did not expect any interference, Merim said. She paused for a moment, then grinned. Or perhaps he did, and simply chose not to mention it. It doesnt matter. Forget what he told you, Be. Youve already rushed through <em>fixing </em>your Path before. How much good has that done you?


    Be pressed her lips together. She wasnt sure why, but everything about the beach made her want to slow down and rx, just like Merim was asking her to do. Rilus order to move quickly was fighting a losing battle.


    Not much, Be admitted. What am I to do, then? Are you going to tell me, or are you just going to keep asking me leading questions?


    You are to decide, Merim said simply. As I said, it was never external forces that caused your Path to falter. It was you. You stand on a precipice and teeter back and forth, refusing to take the plunge but also not stepping back onto solidnd. This is why your Path eludes you. You do not trust yourself.


    Thats it? I just dont understand how I feel?


    Well, theres an exaggeration if I ever heard one.


    Be red at Merim, who just grinned in response.


    How do I figure it out, then? Be asked.


    By making a decision, Merim replied with a shrug. There is no wrong decision other than to not make a decision at all.


    I dont even know what damn decision Im making, Be snapped. I just want to be with the people I care about and not have to deal with a bunch of assholes trying to kill us constantly. Is that too much to ask?


    Be couldnt see Merims face, but she would have bet everything she owned that Merim was cocking an eyebrow in her direction.


    Yes, Merim said.


    I figured, Be grumbled. Can you tell me what the thing I need to make a decision about is, at least?


    No. Part of the decision is figuring out what it is that youck.


    Thats a stupid rule.


    Merim shrugged. It is not a rule, but it is the truth. There is little I can do to help you beyond provide apanion with which to speak. My only suggestion is to think deeply and reach within yourself. Once you know your true feelings, then the rest will fall into ce.


    Be didnt respond. The world felt hazy around her. A strange heaviness started to set into her limbs, pulling Be toward the sand. Rilus warning still rung in her head. There was only a limited amount of time that she could be  well, wherever she was.


    <em>What in the world is the question, though? Its got to be something to do with my Path, right?</em>


    Be dug furiously through her mind in search of whatever it was she was meant to figure out. Her body continued to grow heavier, and the warm sand quickly lost itsfort as it dug into her knees painfully.


    Seconds ticked by. Time felt like it had slowed to a crawl. Dozens of thoughts shed through Bes mind, each one vanishing as soon as it appeared. The haze crept further and further, encroaching into her thoughts and pulling them into the blur.


    <em>Something tells me that Im dead for good if I let this get much worse. </em>


    Perhaps it was the thick haze, or maybe it was just desperation. Something sparked in Bes mind, and that tiny sh of inspiration in the thick fog delivered with it the question  which was so obvious that it actually managed to annoy Be even further. Merim had already told her what it was, even though she imed that she hadnt.


    <em>I need to decide what the ocean means to me. That stupid ass philosophical question is meant to represent cultivation. The ocean is my Path  the one that Vex has screwed with. The one that Ive desperately tried to change. </em>


    The proper answer waspletely obvious. epting the ocean as it was and running into it, embracing her Essence properly would solve everything. And yet


    Bes lips pressed together so tightly that they turned white. She pushed herself upright, and the weight pressing down on her relented, almost as if it sensed that she hade to a conclusion.


    I have the answer to your question, Be ground out.


    Merim smiled. What is it?


    You asked what the ocean was.


    And?


    Its fucking water, Be said. I dont give a shit about any of this garbage. You know what I care about? Protecting my friends. Im not the monster that Vex wanted me to be, even if thats my <em>true </em>Path or whatever. Ill be what I want to be.


    The weight enveloping Be vanished. At the same time, a loud crack split the beach. Merims armor shattered, falling away from her body and into the sea to reveal the tanned skin beneath it. Her helmet split down the center and the weeds enveloping her hair slithered away, revealing soft, golden locks.


    Be stared into a perfect reflection of herself.


    That, Merim said, her smile growing wider. Is a real decision.


    The sand parted before Be, and the crystal sword that Merim had been leaning on rose up from within it, grinding to a halt just before Bes chest. Merim nodded to the de.


    Take it.


    I Im not sure I understand whats going on, Be said. Youre me?


    No. Im your Essence, Merim said, letting out a pealingugh. And you said it yourself. Its crazy to expect to understand everything this early on. You arent a god yet. Just remember what your Path is. Its not just protecting others. Its not just being a deadly warrior. Its being what you <em>want </em>to be. You dont have topromise your desires.


    Be looked down at the sword. Then a smile passed over her own features.


    She reached out and wrapped her hand around the hilt of the de.


    The world shattered in a roar of Essence.

 Chapter 125: Live

    Chapter 125: Live


    Bes eyes snapped open and her head jerked back. Rilus hand shot out, keeping her from colliding with the wall behind her. His eyes shimmered with a faint golden energy that faded to a dull brown and he released Bes head, taking a step back.


    It worked.


    Thats one way to put it, Be said, rubbing her eyes. You killed me.


    Yes. I told you that I would.


    Telling someone that youre going to kill them doesnt exactly justify doing it.


    Rilu arched an eyebrow. You wanted me to help you fix your path. I helped.


    I  yeah. I guess it did. Thank you. I dont suppose you can tell me what actually happened? You said I was going to see my true self or something like that, but it felt more like I was talking to my Essence.


    For a moment, Rilu looked surprised. That instant passed quickly, and he regained control of his features once more. Your Essence? What makes you believe that?


    It basically told me it was. Was that not intended?


    You should have seen a reflection of yourself. Nothing that spoke with you, Rilu said, his brow furrowing. This isnt the first time Ive done something like this, and its not unusual for everyones experience to be a little different could you describe what happened more? Perhaps you simply misunderstood. It is easy to get confused when you are within the reaches of your own soul.


    Be shrugged. Rilu might have killed her, but he did genuinely seem to want to help. It was a helpful death. At least, that was what she was going to tell herself. There wasnt any good way for her to get back at the powerful Karma Cultivator if he was malicious, so it was much easier to just assume that he was on their side  for the time being, at least.


    She recounted everything that had happened after Rilu had killed her. Throughout her exnation, Rilus eyebrows continued to creep up his forehead until they basically vanished into his hair.


    That, Rilu said once Be had finished, is not your soul.


    Yeah, I gathered as much. What was it, then? Youre the one who sent me there.


    Rilu chewed his lower lip and tapped a finger on his upper thigh. Odd indeed. It does genuinely sound like you somehow found a way tomunicate with something that you believe to be your Essence.


    The way youre wording that makes it sound like Im insane more than anything else.


    Yes, it does, Rilu agreed. He didnt bother correcting Be, which wasnt particrly reassuring.


    Is it not possible for Essence tomunicate with people? Id never heard of something like that before today.


    Its possible, but for a Rank Three? Ive never heard of the like. If someone else had interceded on your behalf to allow such a thing, then I could envision it. But as far as Im aware, that did not ur.


    Great, Be said. This is all nice and mysterious, but I did kind of die today, and while I really appreciate your help, Im honestly more confused than anything else. Is this a good thing? I thought it was a good thing.


    It was a few moments before Rilu replied, and even then he still looked pensive.


    Yes. I believe it is a good thing. Excuse my impoliteness. I am unused to being surprised. It rarely happens, but you and Chance have managed it multiple times already. Do you feel like your path has affirmed itself?


    Be had to consider that question for a few moments. Her Essence still swirled in her Gate, waiting for her to call on it. She didnt feel particrly different at first. But, as she sent her attention deeper, it immediately became clear that something had indeed changed.


    The feel of her Essence, which had once been sharp and crisp, waspletely different. It was still cool, but now it was like a winter breeze rather than a frozen wastnd. It felt right.


    Be enjoyed the crisp energy as it swirled through her body, then pulled her attention back and gave Rilu a nod.


    Yes. Its fixed, at least as far as I can tell. I suppose I wont know for certain until I get to test it out. But is this really going to be enough to beat Vex? Actually  scratch that. I know it isnt. Hes way stronger than anyone weve fought before, to the point where I dont think theres any way we can use cheap tricks to im a victory. He wont go down the same way the Brackern Sect did.


    Rilu let out a heavy sigh. It will be very difficult. As you say, Vex is an incredibly powerful cultivator. You are indeedpletely outmatched, and as before, I still cannot directly interfere.


    So isnt the end result of this the same no matter what? Be asked, pushing herself out of the chair and grimacing. No matter how much you help us, were still Rank 3s. Vex kills us  or me, I suppose. Im not sure Yamish would let Chance just get killed like that.


    Its hard to say, but youre likely correct. There is one thing that you have going for you that will give you the slightest sliver of opportunity, though.


    What is it?


    The fact that Vex has such intense bad Karma, especially with you. The universe already dislikes his existence, and setting out to kill someone as weak as you intentionally rather than by passing  that will hinder him.


    Bes brow furrowed. You mean if he killed us on ident then it wouldnt be a problem at all?


    It would be less of one. Rilu nodded. You must understand that  in the grand scheme of things  you are nothing. You have done little in your world to connect you to the universe. In a few hundred years, your ties will be far greater and more important. If Vex were to kill you on ident, then the universe would barely notice the loss. The important thing here is that he is <em>not </em>doing this on ident. His intent is incredibly clear, and that brings his Karma to bear against him.


    So how do we take advantage of that? You cant be implying that Chance is going to be able to defeat Vex just with his Karma Cultivation.


    No, he would stand no more chance against Vex than you in your current state. Come with me.


    The ground behind Rilu rippled. Stone pulled apart brick by brick, forming a stairwell that led beneath the floor. He set down it, and after a moment, Be followed after him.


    Are you giving us some sort of Artifact? Be asked.


    Very astute. Yes, I am. An Artifact is the only way that I can see you having a chance against someone so much more powerful than you.


    Any artifact that can kill an existence like him feels like it would be too powerful for us to use.


    Rilu let out a charmingugh. They reached the bottom of the stairwell, emerging into a in room. It was circr and ringed by flickering yellow torches. At its center sat a stone dais and, upon that, a weathered scroll.


    Kill Vex? You cannot. Even if you somehow managed to strike his head from his shoulders, he would stille back. Your Essence simply has no way to overwhelm his. No  you cannot kill Vex, but you can defeat him.


    Those seem like the same thing.


    Rilu looked over his shoulder at Be. You are being intentionally dense.


    Sorry, Be said. Its been a long day. I died.


    So I saw. Rilu carefully picked the scroll up off the dais and held it out to Be. She took it from him, barely even wrapping her fingers around the old paper in fear of mistakenly damaging it.


    Is this a way to trap Vex or something?


    A good guess, but not exactly a trap. You wouldnt have the power to use such a powerful artifact, and Vex would know what it was. This is the only way I could think of for you to have a fighting chance against Vex. It is a favor given to me by another Karma cultivator that I knew many years ago. He has since died, but the power remains.


    And what exactly does it do?


    It will draw on the Karma of whoever opens it, granting them a reward from the universe. I had originally nned to use this myself when I reached my next Rank. It would have given me a powerful item.


    A reward I take it that the reward depends on your Karma? Be guessed.


    Rilus grin widened. Yes. Vexs reward will be very ill indeed. Even if it doesnt kill him, it will strike a powerful blow that should give you enough time to escape the free reign that Yamish has given him. It will buy you time.


    Be swallowed. If Rilu was really telling the truth, then he was giving them an incredible gift. An artifact that would have mattered to someone as powerful as he was  the scroll was priceless.


    You said that Vex has to open this?


    Of his own volition, Rilu confirmed. That will be the difficult part, and it is why your chances of sess, even with my help, are middling. Vex is arrogant, though. You may be able to use that to your advantage.


    Any chance is better than none, Be said, inclining her head. She slipped the scroll into her pack. Thank you. I know I havent been the most receptive, but


    I dont mind. The words of our heart are far louder than those of our mouth, and I can feel your Karma.


    Be wasnt sure how to respond to that, so she just nodded. Rilu started back up the stairs and she followed after him.


    Ive got one more question, if you dont mind me asking.


    Feel free to ask. I do not guarantee that I will answer.


    Why are you doing so much for us? I know you already said some reasons, but is that really it?


    Rilu didnt respond until they were both standing back in the dining room, and the pathway into the ground had closed back over as if it had never been open.


    My path has permitted me to see a great many things. I have witnessed more than most men ever will, and more than I had ever wanted to. I do not regret cultivating my Essence, but there are times when the universe seems unbelievably dark and there is so little I can do about it. You, on the other hand, are unbound.


    So were basically a tool that you can use to try to make change?


    Yes, Rilu said apologetically. I am using you. There is a very good chance that you die in the process of this. However, in the process, you have the slightest possibility of striking out against Vex. That is what I seek to capitalize on.


    It all seems very roundabout, but I dont know the first thing about Karma cultivation. To be honest, I dont even care if you use us if it gives us a way to live through all this crap, no matter how miniscule it is. Well figure something out.


    I am heartened that you do not think ill of me. For what it is worth, I truly hope you seed. Both to hurt Vex, and so that you may both live.


    I guess well see, Be said wryly.


    So we will. Shall we go reunite with Chance? I would speak with both of you before you depart.


    Be nodded, and a door formed in the wall of the room. It swung open, and the two of them stepped into the darkness beyond it.

 Chapter 126: Last night

    Chapter 126: Last night


    We have to get him to voluntarily open a scroll? Chance tried not to sound too doubtful of the entire n, but he was pretty sure that he hadnt done a very good job at it.


    Be and Rilu hade out a minute ago, joining him and Lucy in a small, pretty garden outside the dining room. Be gave him a brief rundown of what had transpired, but Chance could tell shed skipped over at least a few important bits. Either way, the situation wasnt looking good.


    I know its not an ideal solution, Rilu said apologetically. I did try to think for quite some time to determine another way, but none came to mind. My hands are almost entirely tied.


    Well, Im not going toin about a gift. And it does sound like you helped Be, so thank you, Chance said, inclining his head. We appreciate that.


    Rilu chuckled. Im not so sure youll thank me when Be tells you the exact method with which I helped her. Regardless, there is little more I can offer you. More interference will only cause you difficulties.


    <em>Thats a dismissal if Ive ever heard one. Hes already done more than he needed to, though. It doesnt seem like Rilu has ns to actually ask us for some form of repayment for his help. He genuinely just wants to help us get rid of Vex. </em>


    Well probably be on our way, then, Be said. Unless there was something else?


    Rilu shook his head. Lucy opened her mouth, a conflicted expression on her face, then closed it again when Rilu sent her a gentle nce. She just pressed her lips together and sighed.


    I think thats it. Good luck, both of you. Especially you, Chance. No offense Be, but Chance owes me a favor. Id really rather he lives long enough to pay it off.


    Long enough to help us fight Vex? Be asked, a small grin flicking across her lips.


    Lucy let out a bark ofughter. The smile faded quickly from her features, reced by a serious expression. Good try. Unfortunately, I work directly for Rilu. If I step in, then Rilu gets pulled in as well. Hes done everything he can to help you without getting your Karma tangled up with his. Thats an immense gift hes given the two of you. If you use it right, Im confident youll seed. But, unless Vex is stupid enough to directly attack Rilu, theres absolutely nothing more that we can do.


    Well be watching, though, Rilu said. And, for what its worth, I hope with every fiber of my being that you find a way to seed.


    <em>If I survive this, I think Im going to need to take a good, long look at my own Karma cultivation. I never want to end up with my hands tied like this, unable to help someone because they dont have Karmic ties to me or whatever. </em>


    <em>Yamish doesnt have any trouble like that, but I think his problem might actually be worse. Id rather have my hands bound than go around, murdering people heartlessly just to keep the bnce. </em>


    Chance? Be put a hand on Chances shoulder, pulling him from his worried thoughts. He gave her a weak smile.


    Sorry. I got distracted thinking. Im ready. Rilu, I dont suppose you could tell us just how far Vex is?


    Rilu and Lucy exchanged a nce.


    It depends, Lucy said a few momentster. He is heading in this direction together with Shae. Theyre seeking the Red Hand, but


    Hes somewhere near us? Chance finished, not even slightly surprised when Lucy nodded.


    Lin took a liking to you, apparently, Lucy said. A vile man, wrapped inyers of bad Karma so tightly that they might as well be a cloak. And yet, despite that, the universe does not seem to hold a grudge against him. I do not know what he cultivates, but I know that it concerns me.


    A flicker of hope passed through Bes eyes. Do you think hell be enough to defeat Vex?


    Rilu was shaking his head before the words even finisheding out of Bes lips. No. The Red Hand is a powerful cultivator in his own right, but he is far from Vexs level. There is no contest between them.


    Chance pursed his lips. Something about their whole conversation felt off. Rilu kept saying that he wasnt able to help them more, and then subsequently helped them more right afterward.


    <em>I dont get it. Hes basically said, sorry, cant do anything like a dozen times now. Theyre really spending a lot of time reminding us that theres nothing they can do. Why?</em>


    Is anyone else in the area that might be able to help? Be tried.


    Just Lin, Rilu said. And that leads me to my next warning. Vex has been elerating. I believe he has observed my presence in the matter and fears that I will interfere directly. He will be here far sooner than we originally thought.


    How much sooner? Chances blood ran cold.


    A day. Maybe two. But  I can take you with us, Rilu said, gesturing to Lucy. Not far, but to one of the other Schr-cities. It would not stop Vex, but it would dy him. Throw off Shaes trail.


    You mean it would buy us  what, a week? Be asked.


    A few days.


    To do what? Make good with our lot?


    Rilu gave Be a sad smile. Im afraid so, yes.


    She and Chance exchanged a look. An unspoken look of understanding passed between them and they both turned their gazes back to Rilu.


    Were fine here, I think, Be said. Im done running. Id suggest that Chance take you up on your offer and leave me to face Vex on my own, but I know he wouldnt even consider it, so I wont bother.


    Damn right I wont, Chance said with a grin. Thanks for your help, Rilu, Lucy.


    The two Karma cultivators pressed their hands to their chests. Chance wasnt sure what the gesture meant, but he returned the favor. It seemed respectful. Lucy reached into a pocket and tossed Chance a small bundle. He caught it, a surprised expression passing over his face.


    Goodbye, Chance, Be, Rilu said. May the universe see you favorably. I suspect Lin will approach you after we leave. Just remember my gift. It is your one and only way to defeat Vex  even if only temporarily.


    The air around them rippled. Chance watched in awe as the garden  and then the entire city after it  started to turn translucent. Motes of golden light rose into the air, streaming into the sky.


    Within seconds, the entire thing was gone, and the two of them were standing alone on a grassy in once more. It was several seconds before either dared to breathe again.


    Whewh, Be said, flopping to the ground and stretching her legs out before her. That wasnt how I saw the day going when I woke up.


    Chance sat down beside Be and leaned against her shoulder. I guess it was a pretty good break from the tedium, huh?


    Be burst intoughter. You really do always find an optimistic way to look at things, dont you?


    No point looking at them any other way.


    The two of them fell silent, and neither spoke for nearly ten minutes. They just sat there, watching the clouds trace through the sky above them and enjoying the faint wind as it rustled their clothes.


    Chance unfolded the package Lucy had thrown him, but froze as he saw thebel drawn across its back.


    <em>Just a in old tent.</em>


    Chance tilted his head to the side.


    <em>Is this just a practical joke?</em>


    You think were going to pull it off? Be asked, breaking the stillness.


    Ill be honest, Ive been trying to think of a n, but nothingse to me, Chance admitted. He pulled his eyes away from the tent. So I dont know.


    That hard to say no, huh?


    That just seems like jinxing it. I dont want this to be the end.


    Me neither.


    A foot thumped against the grass behind them. Chance and Be didnt even bother looking back. Rilu had already told them who it was, and Chance could smell a faint scent of blood that hung in the air.


    Nor do I, Lin said, flopping to the ground. The two of you make a cute couple.


    Thanks, Chance said, finally looking back at Lin. Why are you here, though?


    To help.


    But why? Be asked. Dont take this the wrong way, but theres no reason for you to be here. You arent tied to me or Chance. Vex doesnt care about you.


    Lin let out a bark ofughter. But Shae does, and I have eyes in the darkness. I know that Shae approaches together with Vex. The two of them hunt all of us. I would have been a weed before their scythe if they caught me alone, and Shae nned to im my life before yours. Thus, I arrive.


    Well, three of us is better than two. Chance rubbed the back of his head. It does make things considerably less romantic, though.


    Lin snorted. My apologies. You have grown a considerable backbone since west spoke, Chance. You were a cowardly pup. A kind, cowardly pup.


    I dont think its cowardly to not want to get killed. Thats just called self-preservation, Chance countered. But its hard to worry about that kind of thing anymore when you know that tomorrow might be yourst day.


    The Will of the Damned, Lin said, an approving smile crossing over his features. You have found it. Few do.


    Whats that? Bes brow furrowed and she tilted her head slightly. Something to do with Karma cultivation?


    It is not a power. It is a mindset. A way of life. To understand that there is no tomorrow  there is only the present. It is the drive to drive forward without regard for what may happen in the future. A great gift. A rare one.


    Not one thats going to help us much with Vex, though, Chance said.


    No, Lin agreed. Not at all. I was hoping that your Karma Cultivator friend has given you a method with which we can seed.


    Be looked at Chance out of the corner of her eye, the question clear in her expression. Chance knew what she wanted to ask because he was wondering the exact same thing.


    <em>Just how much do we trust Lin? Just because hes in the same boat with us doesnt mean were allies. We just arent enemies. Hes a loose cannon. </em>


    Not exactly a way to win, but if we share it with you, I think it might genuinely impact the likelihood of us seeding, Chance said honestly. He wasnt sure why, but he felt like telling Lin about the scroll was a terrible idea. I hope you dont take offense. Its not that I dont trust  actually, it is. Sorry. I know youve helped us, but I dont trust you.


    To his surprise, Lin let out a boomingugh. Very good. You shouldnt. I have found you amusing, but never an equal. There was no trust to be had between us, Chance. Now, even though we find ourselves together in hopes of defeating an impossibly powerful opponent, there should still be no trust. Only understanding. You will do everything you can to stop Vex?


    Of course, Chance said.


    Then I will handle Shae. If you have any tricks from that powerful cultivator, then they are best used on our true foe.


    Be and Chance nodded.


    Together, then, Be said. Well do what we can.


    As will I. At the very least, we will die a glorious death, Lin said, his lips splitting apart in a wide grin. I feel Shaes Essence approaching. He is wild. Furious. Perhaps I can use this to my advantage. We will see. Tomorrow, we will fight.


    <em>Onest night, huh? Well, Im not wasting it. At least I know why Lucy gave me this. </em>


    Chance tugged on the package, and a tent sprung out from within it, expanding before his eyes and staking itself into the ground.


    Whats that for? Lin asked. Cute little artifact, by the way. I hope thats not your n to defeat Vex.


    Nope. Its where were going to wait out the night. Chance nodded to Be. Do you mind keeping watch?


    Lin snorted. Go ahead. I would not fit, even if I wanted to.


    Did Lucy really give you this for no other purpose? Be asked, holding back augh.


    Yeah. Im notining, though. Are you?


    No, Be admitted as she ducked into the tent. Im not.


    Chance followed in after her, and the two of them sat down, leaning against each other, and taking what sce they could in each otherspany during what might have very well been theirst night on Centurion.

 Chapter 127: Vex

    Chapter 127: Vex


    A cold morning greeted Chance and Be as they woke. Heavy gray clouds blocked out the sun and a howling gale upied their small camp, buffeting them as they exited their tent.


    Lin sat cross-legged before them, his hands braced against his knees and his face to the sky. He drew in a deep breath and let it out, rolling his neck before rising to his feet. It will not be long now. Our foes approach.


    How do you know? Chance asked.


    Bloodlust recognizes itself, and neither Vex nor Shae make any motion to hide theirs. I suspect that Vex could easily hide himself from me if he willed it, but Shae could not. I have already felt his blood. He approaches.


    Ill take your word for it. Chances bracelet slithered around his wrist, expanding into its urumi form. He followed Lins gaze, but there wasnt anything in the sky but clouds as far as he could tell. How long until they show up?


    Soon.


    Thats not very specific, Be said. Minutes? Hours? Seconds?


    Lin shrugged in response, finally pulling his eyes away from the sky to look down at the two of them. They will arrive when they do. Just wait. I will take Shae. Try to stall Vex for long enough for me toplete my battle.


    Is there really anything youd be able to do to Vex, even if we managed to fight him off for long enough for you to defeat Shae?


    Lin let out a deepugh. No, of course not. But I n to bring Shae with me on my trip to the afterlife. He will be my final sacrifice. It would be disappointing to go down without a proper fight.


    <em>Right. Forgot this guy was insane. </em>


    Well do what we can, Be said, her hand involuntarily moving to rest on the scroll that Rilu had given them.


    The two of them had spent a fair amount of time the previous night trying to figure out ways to get Vex to actually open it, but none of them held any promise. Vex was arrogant, but nothing about him screamedplete moron.


    Hed know something was up the moment Be tried to give him a gift, and hed also be able to see how much power was stored in it. There was no world hed just pull the scroll open purely out of curiosity.


    Rilus words still echoed through Chances head as he tried to piece them together. He could have sworn that he was missing something, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldnt find it. Be hadnt had any more luck.


    <em>Im just reaching for straws that arent there. Our best bet is that Yamish decides to get involved out of the blue. Im just not going to think too much about the likelihood of that happening  and the cost that were going to pay if it does. At that point, it might actually be better if we die. Im not sure what cost Yamish will see equal to killing Vex, but its definitely going to be bad. </em>


    Ah. Lin scratched at the back of his neck. They are here.


    Chance dragged Essence from his Gate and into his body, filling himself with power as he spun and looked around the clearing. Adrenaline thumped through his veins at an instants notice, readying him for the fight.


    Nobody was there.


    Where? Be asked urgently, looking as stressed as Chance felt.


    Lin burst intoughter and pped them both on the back, sending them staggering.


    Rx. Fearing death will not lessen its grip on you. March into the beyond as you lived, or your life will have been for waste. A good death is just as important as a good life.


    Chances eye twitched, but he couldnt stop himself from letting a small chuckle of his own. Part of that was probably due to all the Essence he was holding onto, but now was hardly the time to dwell.


    <em>I hate to admit it, but Lin might actually have a point. Being as stiff as a board isnt going to help anyone. </em>


    He heaved a sigh, drawing on his Essence to help himself rx. Chance touched Bes shoulder, sending some of his power into her. Her stance softened and she gave him an appreciative nod.


    Minutes ticked by. The unlikely alliance stood in the cold morning, listening to the wind and watching the clouds crawl across the sky.


    A ripple passed through the air across from their tent. It expanded, drawing outward like a maw of some ravenous beast, and Shae stepped out from within it. The Shikari held his twin swords at his sides, ready to strike.


    His long ck hair had been tied back behind his head, and his eyes smoldered with fury and determination. But, mixed in with the other emotions, was stress and worry  and the reason for it emerged from the portal a momentter.


    Vex stepped out behind Shae. The cultivators purple eyes bored into Be as the portal snapped shut behind them.


    I was wondering how long it would take you to show up, Lin said, stretching his arms out before him. I see youve brought a babysitter this time, Shae.


    Forgive my tardiness, Vex said, his lips curling into a sarcastic smile. I just couldnt help myself. I wanted to see my former student squirm for just a little longer. I <em>hate </em>ruining entertainment before its gotten a chance to properly get going.


    Its odd, Linn said. I feel the exact same way.


    Lin flickered, erupting in red energy and blurring into motion. Shaes swords shed up before him in an x pattern a moment before Lins fist mmed into them with a resounding ng. Blood-red Essence poured from Lins fist.


    Shae skipped back as Lin lunged for him again, his swords arcing out to sever the huge mans head. Lin twisted out of the way, then transferred the momentum of his dodge into a vicious backhand that caught Shae in the stomach and sent him hurtling dozens of feet back.


    Roaring a challenge, Lin sprinted after Shae. Vex didnt seem to care in the slightest about either Lin or Shae, though. He had eyes only for Be.


    I trust you knew this wasing, Vex said, stepping toward them. You didnt think you could actually escape, did you?


    Even if it isnt from me, youll get whatsing to you, Be spat. And Ive got more allies than you think.


    Allies? Vex snorted, ncing over to Chance. This child? Yamish has his eye on the boy, but not you. He will not interfere to save your life, Be. You are <em>mine.</em>


    Even with his Essence filling his body, Chance could barely keep himself from attacking. Everything about Vex grated against him, and his Essence was of the same mind. The man was pure Bad Karma, and the universe longed for his removal.


    Not just him. Bes fists clenched at her sides. She pulled the scroll that Rilu gave her. I got a gift from a powerful Karma cultivator. All I have to do is read this, and youll be gone. Ash in the wind.


    Chance grit his teeth. Standing still felt like agony. This was the best strategy the two of them had managed to scrouge up. Vex would never open the scroll if he knew what it did, but if he could wring just a little more despair out of Be by taking her own weapon and using it against her


    <em>Come on. Take the bait. </em>


    Vex arched an eyebrow. Cute. You think a pathetic little artifact like that is going to do anything against me, Be?


    It came from a Karma cultivator far more powerful than


    Vex burst intoughter. Yes, yes. I know of Rilu. I will admit that he is indeed more powerful than me, but he suffers from the very power that you boast about. He can do nothing to save you, Be.


    You want to find out? Bes voice was remarkably calm as she raised the scroll as if to open it. She matched Vexs gaze and bared her teeth. The universe hates you a lot, Vex. Youre an affront to its existence. Even Rilu isntpletely bound when ites to someone as vile as you. This is thest time Ill offer. Leave and never return, or Ill use this scroll and wipe you from the face of the universe.


    Vex crossed his arms before his chest and arched an eyebrow. I had nned to rip you apart piece by piece, but I think listening to the agony in your voice as this pathetic idea crumbles is far more exciting. Go ahead, Be. Use the scroll.


    A second passed. Bes hands tightened at the edges of the scroll. Chances heart clenched and he raised his urumi.


    Something wrong, Be? Vexs smile grew. Arent you going to use that Karmic Retribution scroll? Summon all the good Karma youve earned over the years to strike me down?


    Chances stomach plunged.


    <em>He knows what the scroll does?</em>


    H-how? Be stammered, taking a step back. Some of the confidence that had been steeling her posture sank into the ground.


    Did you really think I couldnt recognize an artifact like that? Vex shook his head in disappointment. You  and Rilu  are both fools. Even if I was stupid enough to actually unfurl the scroll, it wouldnt have anywhere near the strength to harm me. You have nothing, Be. Is this really the extent of your preparations? I had expected more, even from you.


    If you actually believed that, you wouldnt just be standing around. Be caught herself before she could take another step back and steeled her gaze. Youre bluffing, arent you?


    Vex disappeared.


    It wasnt the same as when Lin or Shae fought  then, Chance at least got a very vague sense of the battle. Even though he couldnt keep up with their speed, he could see what happened when their blowsnded.


    He never saw what Vex did, but Be let out a pained cry and flew back, mming into him. Chance dug his feet into the ground as he skidded across it, only managing to keep his bnce and grip on Be by sheer luck.


    Be doubled over, coughing blood onto the ground. Vex stood where shed been a moment before, a disgusted expression on his face.


    Be! Chances grip tightened on her shoulders. Are you


    Does it matter? Be asked, coughing again into her fist. The scroll  shed somehow managed to hold onto it  slipped from her fingers and fell to the grass.


    No, Vex said. It does not. This was disappointing, Im afraid. What a waste. Im going to have to go find a new student after this whole debacle. One that isnt as foolish as you were. What an utter bother.


    The wind howled. Vex walked toward them  moving at a speed that they could watch. He could have killed them both in an instant, but he chose not to, purely just to take in their expressions.


    Chances eyes darted around desperately. He called on his Essence, pulling on any luck that he could find, but nothing changed. It waspletely pointless.


    <em>Theres nothing we can do against him.</em>


    And, judging by the ted look on Vexs face, he knew it too.

 Chapter 128: Wanting

    Chapter 128: Wanting


    Vexs Essence bore down on Chance and Be, pushing them both to the ground. Chance gritted his teeth, fighting just to stay standing. The pressure was immense, but with the full brunt of his own Essence pressing back against Vex, he was able to keep himself from falling face first onto the ground.


    <em>Hes doing this on purpose. He could definitely crush both of us if he wanted to.</em>


    Is something wrong? Vex asked, his smile expanding as he came to a stop before Be. Her fingers dug through the dirt and she grit her teeth, her back trembling as she tried to force herself back to her feet and failed.


    Every breath felt like it was a battle. Vex was crushing them without so much as lifting a finger. Chances Essence flooded out from his body, enveloping him and Be in its warm glow. Vex didnt even give him a second nce.


    To him, Chance was just the side-show. He was doing this because of Be. The sick cultivator took pleasure in his apparent superiority  the arrogant smirk on his face said everything. In his mind, this had never been a fight. Hed won before it had ever started.


    I wish I could say its been fun, but youve been aplete waste of my time, Vex said, putting one of his boots on Bes shoulder and mming her to the ground. He flexed his right hand and a glistening ck water swirled around his fingertips, forming into a de.


    Fury bubbled in Chances stomach. Fury at Vex  and at the world of Centurion, for letting something like this happen. At the Shikari, for theirplete and utter betrayal. At himself, for not being strong enough to do anything but watch as Vex raised the de.


    And, finally  and to his shame  Rilu. Yamish never would have helped, but Rilu had imed to care about others. His ims were worthless. Vex was moments from Killing Be, and hed known everything about the secret weapon that Rilu had given them.


    Chance drew a shuddering breath, his lungs barely even able to draw air with his proximity to Vex. A vision of the golden being flickered through his mind.


    <em>Answers are found in peace, not anger.</em>


    Chance nearlyughed. Vex had paused the fall of his de, savoring the defeated expressions on their faces. Peace didnt feel like it was going to solve anything. Theyd already lost.


    <em>But, if Im going to die, it damn well isnt going to be like this. </em>


    He released the anger. The fury and hatred melted away in the flow of his Essence, washed into a flowing ocean of peace. He could not control the world. The actions of others were beyond his grasp. No matter what anyone took from him, they could never take his beliefs and decisions. Chance was who he chose to be. Vex could kill them, but he couldnt change them.


    The revtion didnt give Chance a burst of strength, nor did it reduce the crushing pressure threatening to turn him into paste. No magical force appeared to change the tide of the battle, and Chances Essence didnt erupt with renewed vigor.


    Instead, he got a moment of rity. A flicker of peace in a storm of emotion. And, with that moment, Chances eyesnded on the scroll thatid before Be.


    A gift that made no sense. One that had no conceivable way of defeating Vex, and yet one that Rilu had given them, nheless. A gift that Rilu had valued greatly. One that they valued as well. It had been their lifeline, the promise that there was a way to survive the day.


    Chances eyes widened.


    Vexs spun the sword around in his hand and plunged it down toward Bes neck. Chance gathered everyst ounce of Essence in his body and released it at once, throwing himself forward with a defiant yell.


    His lunge barely took him a few feet, but those feet were enough. Chances palm pped against the scroll and he shoved his arm up, putting the scroll  and himself  between Be and Vexs de.


    The de carved straight through the scroll, splitting it in twain. It continued, driving into Chances palm like a spike of red-hot pain. He screamed in pain, pushing his weight to the side.


    His desperate attempt managed to shove Vexs sword just far enough to the side that it missed Be. It pinned Chances hand and the scroll alike to the ground with a wet squelch. Vex pulled the de free, flicking Chances blood across his face.


    Marvelous, Vex said,ughing as he raised the de once more. You are pathetic, boy. So much for your precious weapon. Watch, Be. If the boy wishes to die first so badly, then I will oblige him.


    It wasnt, Chance said, gritting his teeth through the pain.


    Vex arched an eyebrow as he ced the de of his sword against Chances neck. Oh? Speak up, boy. Make yourst words count.


    It wasnt a weapon. It was a gift.


    Confusion flitted across Vexs features, but he only had a brief second to process Chances words. A brilliant chime split the air as a glowing golden fist mmed into Vexs chin with such force that the bone cracked.


    Vex spun and staggered, barely managing to keep his bnce. His eyes widened as Rilu emerged from a glowing crack in the air, his body wreathed with brilliant gold energy. The oppressive aura that had been washing off of Vex washed away in an instant, and Chance drew in a greedy breath.


    Vex spat blood onto the ground, a bruise already starting to form where hed been hit. Rilu. Fool. We have no Karmic connection. Ill enjoy watching your own powers rip you apart for feeling pity for these insects.


    Is that so? Rilu tilted his head to the side, standing silently for several seconds. Odd. I dont seem to be having any issues. I wonder why that could be, Vex?


    Vex took a step back, the confidence draining from his face. Blood dripped from his lips and his gaze shot down to the severed scroll on the ground beside Chance.


    Oh, thats not good, Rilu said, his eyes stormy despite his jovial words. You destroyed my gift, Vex.


    No. Vex took another step back. Thats not possible. You cant


    Im afraid I can, Rilu said. They owed me for that scroll, Vex. It may have been worthless to you, but it was more valuable than anything else in the whole world to them. It was hope. It was more than that. It was a Karmic Bond. And you just severed it.


    Vex spun, water spraying around him as he started tounch into the air. Rilu extended a hand toward the fleeing cultivator. Bands of golden light unraveled, spanning through the sky and binding around Vexs limbs.


    They yanked him back, mming Vex into the ground with an earth-shattering crash. Vex roared and des of water enveloped him, cutting the strands apart. He staggered to his feet, his eyes wild.


    You can do nothing! Vex screamed. You are an impartial observer with no power!


    No, Vex. I am an executor of the universes will, Rilu said, his voice deadly soft. And you have Karma with me.


    Vex wasnt granted the grace of a response. A golden de formed in the air behind him and carved down for his neck. Vex twisted to the side, screaming as the weapon carved a line across his back.


    Water swirled and he sent a wave of des crashing down on Rilu, but it was blown to the side by a rush of golden wind. Vex turned to flee again, but glowing gold bands wrapped around his arms and legs, yanking him back before he could run.


    Vex desperately cut at the bands, but this time, they didnt break. His magic broke harmlessly against Rilus. With a defiant roar, Vex summoned a rain of jagged water directly above Chance and Be.


    It crashed down above them with enormous force  only to be met by a wall of golden light. Loud ngs echoed through the field as Vexs magic harmlessly rang off Rilus shield.


    I have been waiting for you to slip up for a long time, Vex. Rilus voice was dispassionate as he advanced toward the desperate Cultivator.


    Youre nothing but a dog! Vex screamed. His Essence roared out of his body, roiling across the ground and ripping it to shreds. It didnt make it farther than five feet from his body before dozens of golden stars lit around him, blocking Vexs aura off and stopping its advance.


    Bands of light shot out from the stars, winding around Vexs body and dragging his limbs taut. Vex was lifted into the air, bound so tightly that he wasnt even able to struggle. All he could do was stare hatefully. His Essence flickered and faded, unable to resist the overwhelming might pouring off Rilu.


    You have been judged by the universe, Rilu proimed. A gold spear materialized in his hands. He thrust it forward, driving the weapons point straight into Vexs heart. Vexs eyes widened and he thrashed, blood sttering across the ground as Rilu ripped the spear free.


    The bindings holding Vex vanished and he dropped to the ground,nding on all fours. Vex coughed, even more blood sttering from his lips as he tried to find the strength to push himself upright.


    Ill


    A band of light wound around Vexs mouth, stifling him. Rilu turned, holding the spear out. Chance and Be stared. Vex had been invincible. An insurmountable force that had been guing Be for her entire life.


    Be rose to her feet. Vexs eyes promised a thousand deaths within them, but Be didnt even look at him. Her eyes were transfixed on the glowing weapon. She reached out and took it from Rilu, staring at the hilt mutely.


    With a scream that carried years of torture and pain behind it, Be plunged it into Vexs eye. A brilliant crash of light lit the clearing as the weapon bit home, punching out of the back of Vexs head.


    The spear dissipated. Be dropped to her knees, breathing heavily as the bindings holding Vex vanished. His body pitched forward, thumping against the ground before Be as tears streamed down her face.


    You have been found wanting, Rilu finished, pping his hands together. Good riddance.

 Chapter 129: In the dirt

    Chapter 129: In the dirt


    Rilu wasted no time in tossing Chance a healing pill. Chance put it between his lips numbly, unable to take his eyes from Vexs remains. It didnt feel real. He could dimly hear the sound of fighting in the background as Lin and Shae battled, but that felt so far away that it didnt even matter.


    The wound on Chances palm stitched itself together and sealed shut. He walked up to Be, standing silently beside her and holding a hand out. Be looked up at him, then down to his hand. Slowly, she took it and Chance pulled her to her feet.


    Its done? Be asked, speaking softly as if her words would somehow cause the world to remember that Vex wasnt meant to be dead.


    Its done, Rilu confirmed. He is dead, and dead he will remain. Vex is gone.


    Bes hands clenched and unclenched at her sides. She took a trembling breath and let it out, her lips pressing thin. I I dont get it. Why dont I feel anything?


    There is only so much that the human mind can handle. I suspect all the emotions you would have felt now have already been felt. Rilu put his hands on their shoulders. And you will feel more than you care to soon enough. It wille with time.


    A loud crash spit the still air. Chance nced over his shoulder in the direction of Shae and Lins fight. It was still going strong. The two powerful cultivators were so fast that all Chance could pick up were the after-effects of their attacks.


    We really got ourselves in a bit over our head, didnt we? Chance asked.


    Be wiped her face with the back of a sleeve and coughed into the crook of her elbow. Thats one way to put it.


    Another crash roared through the sky and the ground trembled. A wave of Essence passed over Chance, buffeting his hair and forcing him to squint.


    There was no more fighting after it.


    And so it ends, Rilu said, not looking particrly pleased. The Shikari is dead.


    Lin won? Chance asked.


    <em>I Im not actually sure if I should be happy about that or not. </em>


    And departed with haste. He wisely chose not to remain in my presence for long. His very Essence disgusts me. Lin is in direct opposition to us, Chance. You should be wary around him.


    Hes definitely a bit out there, Chance agreed. I well, he was nice to us, though.


    Kindness does not make a man good. The evil can do great acts, but that does not change who they are. Rilus eyes narrowed as he looked into the distance. If it would not interfere too greatly in my cultivation, I would purge Lin as well. s, I have already done far more than I should have.


    A sh of shame washed over Chance as he realized that they hadnt even thanked Rilu for his help properly yet. He inclined his head respectfully.


    Thank you so much for everything you did. Be and I would be dead if you hadnt given us that scroll, Chance said. I have to admit that, for a moment, I thought you screwed us over. Im sorry about that too. I should have trusted you.


    Riluughed and pped him on the shoulder. You saved yourself, Chance. The universe gives us tools. Today, I was the tool. Tomorrow, I will not be. Nothing will have changed, though. So long as you remember that everything you could ever need will be provided for you, then you will make it very far along your Path.


    Chance is right, Be said. Thank you, Rilu. Not just for the scroll, but for the help with my own Path. After meeting with Yamish, I was a little worried that all Karma cultivators were insane.


    Hey! Chance red at Be. Whats that supposed to mean?


    Be threw her head back,ughing. Chance opened his mouth, then paused to listen. Herughter  unburdened and free  was beautiful, and he didnt want to interrupt it. Be continuedughing, her mirth turning to a trickle of tears that ran down her face.


    Why  why am I crying? Be asked through her uncontrobleughter, trying to wipe her face with the back of a sleeve andpletely failing at the task.


    Emotion is an odd thing  one that evades me just as much as it evades you. Rilu gave them both a wry smile. This time, it is truly time for me to go. And for you  it is time for a decision.


    Rilu tossed two wooden tokens to Chance, who barely managed to snag them out of the air without dropping them.


    Will we see each other again? Chance asked. And what about Lucy?


    If Karma wills it. For what its worth, I suspect we will, Rilu said. Im looking forward to that time. It is always a wonderful feeling to see a nted seed flower. Goodbye, Chance. Goodbye, Be. Youve got some choices ahead of you.


    Be managed to raise a hand in farewell; still caught in the throes of hystericalughter. Chance and Rilu exchanged onest look before the Karma cultivator shimmered and faded away in a swirl of golden particles.


    Still caught in a mixture betweenughter and sobs, Be sank to the ground. Chance sat down beside her and she leaned her head against his shoulder.


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    It was a clear, bright day. The sun shimmered overhead in a bright blue sea, shining down on them. The heat was carried away by a gentle breeze that, while not enough to cause any chill, kept the temperature ideal.


    Chance wasnt sure if the beautiful day fit Vexs death. Part of him almost felt like the vile man had deserved a torrential downpour to sweep away anyst traces of his existence. But, the more he thought about it, the more the day felt right.


    Vex was gone. He didnt have to deal with the days anymore, and it wasnt going to matter to him if it rained or not. The only ones that remained were those who were left behind. And, for them, a sunny day was exactly what they needed.


    It was several minutes before Be got control of her emotions again. If anything, Chance was surprised shed managed it so quickly. If hed been in her shoes, he was pretty sure it would have been an hour before he could think straight again.


    What did Rilu give you? Be asked, her voice stuffy.


    Chance looked down at the tokens in his hands. Hed nearly forgotten that he had them in the first ce. But, even with just a single nce, he immediately knew what they were. Rilus parting words made a bit more sense as well.


    Theyre transport tokens, Chance murmured. To Gleam.


    Bes eyes widened. But we cant


    We can, actually.


    Be paused. Blinking in shock. Youre right. Vex is dead. We dont have to run anymore.


    Well, Im pretty sure theres still an order our for our heads, Chance said, rubbing the back of his head. But Yamish said this was until Vex was dealt with. So, unless he lied to us, that should be that. Vex is dead. I passed his test, so we should be allowed to go back.


    Be looked from Chance to the tokens in his hands. She bit her lower lip and leaned back, drawing in a deep breath of the fresh morning air.


    Is is it even a good idea? Be wondered. Going back, that is. The Shikari betrayed us at the drop of a hat.


    Not everyone. Pete never did. Neither did Yeo. Petes still in Gleam somewhere, and Im sure Yeo will return so long as Yamish really wasnt lying. And theres Jade and Wren as well. They both believed us.


    Be nodded slowly. And where else would we go? Another schr city? I suppose we could, but that almost feels like running.


    Im not sure if it would be running, but I think Id like to be a proper team again, Chance said. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. Dont get me wrong. Traveling around is fun, but I really enjoyed getting to be a team with you and Yeo. Just going around and helping people, no big threats or axes hanging over our head.


    Be raised an eyebrow. What, am I not enough?


    What? No, I


    Be burst intoughter at the panicked expression at Chances face. She took onest look back at Vex, then pushed herself to her feet and held her hand out. Chance took it and Be pulled him to his feet.


    I like the idea of it as well. I do hope you realize the chances of us being normal Shikari are probably zero, right? Even if everyone magically forgets the kill order that was out on our heads, Yamish isnt going to leave us alone.


    Probably true, Chance admitted. But thats out of my control, so Im not going to worry about it. I just want to meet up with our friends again so things can be as close to normal as they can be. Everything else can be dealt with as ites.


    I suppose well find out. What do you think, then? Did Yamish already handle things?


    Only one way to find out, Chance replied. He activated his third eye, revealing the strands of Karma crisscrossing throughout the world around them. Drawing a deep breath, Chance reached out.


    Yamish answered.


    The air before them twisted, a mass of gray twisting into being as Yamish quite literally unfolded himself as if emerging from a tiny box the size of a watermelon. He floated in typical upside-down, legs crossed above his head.


    Chance, Yamish said, his smile looking like a frown because of his position. I was wondering when you would decide to reach out. I had thought you may have done it earlier. During the fight with the Rank 6 fools  or when Lin appeared. How fascinating. Youpletely ignored me until the entire test wasplete.


    Calling out to you was an option?


    No, Yamish replied. He righted himself. It was not. But I expected you to try it nheless. Fascinating.


    He passed, right? Be asked. We can go back to Gleam?


    Yamish nced at Be, then back at Vex. Yes. He passed.


    If Chance didnt know better, he would have thought that Yamish might have been making a joke. For that matter, maybe the strange cultivator was. Chance still had absolutely no idea what made Yamish tick, and he got the feeling that he never wanted to find out.


    We can return, then? Chance pressed.


    You may. As in all things in life, bnce has been achieved. I have already made the arrangements for your return, Yamish said. His legs unfurled and he lowered to the ground to stand before them normally. For several seconds, Yamish was silent. Then he inclined his head in the faintest show of respect. You have both impressed me. For a pair of mortals, you show great resolve. My true self made the right decision with you, Chance. I look forward to our next meeting, but you will be permitted to enjoy the rewards of your work for the time being.


    With that, Yamish vanished as if hed never been there. Be and Chance exchanged a nce.


    That wasnt ominous, Be drawled.


    Lets not worry about it too much. You heard him. Ive got some time off, and Im not nning to sit around wasting it.


    Be nodded. Not going to argue with that. What about Vex? You think we should check if he had anything important?


    Chance chewed his lower lip. Vex had been a powerful cultivator, but the idea of rifling through the dead mans pockets wasnt ideal. The less they had to remind them of Vex, the better. But, at the same time, he couldnt help but feel like Vex owed Be something for everything hed taken from her.


    He called on his Essence, sending a snake of golden energy twisting across the ground and into Vexs body. There was a soft thump as one of his pockets pitched open and a tiny bell rolled out, dropping to the grass and rolling until it came to a stop at Chances feet.


    Chance picked the bell up and wiped it off before handing it to Be. Here. Courtesy of Vex, as an apology for what he did.


    I dont suppose you know what it is?


    No idea, but my Essence thinks its important.


    Be studied the bell for a moment, then shook her head. She took Chances hands in her own and pushed the bell back into his palm. Then you hold onto this for me. Your Essence found it, which means its probably a pretty strong artifact.


    But


    Chance, youd give away literally every artifact you had if you could. Just take the gift.


    Fine, fine. Thank you. Ill let you know if I figure out what its for. Chance cleared his throat and tucked the bell into his pocket. He then held out one of the tokens. Shall we?


    Be took the token from him with a smile. Yeah. Lets go.


    The two of them snapped the tokens between their fingers. Essence roared and they both vanished, leaving Vexs body in the dirt behind them.

 Chapter 130: A lot

    Chapter 130: A lot


    Rilus smile faded from his face. Floating upside down across from him in his dining hall was Yamish. The gaunt cultivator watched him, dead eyes boring into Rilu.


    Yamish, Rilu said, little decorum in his voice. Is there something we need to speak of?


    You are interfering, Yamish said. His head twisted on his neck unnaturally, rotating until it was upright  unlike the rest of Yamishs body. Bold. Far bolder than before.


    Things change. There are times when the universe demands I do nothing, but this was not one of those times. Do you object? He is your apprentice, Yamish. You epted him. It should be your responsibility to shield him from any threats as great as Vex. He should have an opportunity to grow. Striking the boy down with overwhelming power will be nothing but a waste.


    The reasons for your interference are not any concern to me. The rest of Yamishs body twisted around and he finally stood on the ground like a normal person. I had simply wondered what reason spurred you to act.


    I acted for the same reason I always do. It increased the good Karma and reduce the bad Karma in the universe.


    There is no such thing. For every act of good, there is evil. You have made no difference.


    We disagree on that front, but I doubt youvee here to discuss theology, Rilu said. He inteced his fingers before him. Or was this just a social visit?


    Yamish gave Rilu a thin-lipped smile, revealing his rows of pointed teeth. No. I simply wished to inquire if you had ns of interfering further with my apprentice.


    I cannot say what the future holds. All things are possible. But I must ask  if you care about your apprentice, why werent you the one to interfere?


    Perhaps I already did.


    The two cultivators studied each other. Rilus eyes narrowed in annoyance. Of all the cultivators hed ever interacted with, Yamish was one of the few where he actually had to tread carefully. Even though he was only faced with a clone of the true being, Yamish was a terrifying existence that Rilu couldnt afford to make an enemy of. Not more than what they already were, at least.


    I doubt that, but I suppose well never find out. Is that really all you came here about? Aint that I gave your apprentice a small gift?


    That was not all you did.


    Riluughed. Its not my fault the boy figured out he could cause Karmic debt between Vex and I if he put the gift in Vexs way.


    That was indeed him, Yamish said, inclining his head. I refer to the girl.


    The smile vanished from Rilus features. He leaned forward and braced his hands against the table, peering down the bridge of his nose at Yamish. What of it? I simply gave her some guidance.


    I felt the ripple of Karma. You did far more than that.


    Rilu blinked. Slowly, the smile returned to his face. You dont know what I did. Thats it, isnt it?


    Tell me.


    I already did. I simply gave her a little push in the right direction. Everything else is her. Why do you have a problem with that? Shouldnt you be happy that your apprentice will have powerful allies in the future? Or were you hoping that hed have to rely entirely on you so he had no alternatives?


    Yamish didnt respond, but the subtle shift in his expression told Rilu everything that he needed to know.


    <em>Thats quite a shock. Yamish is actually worried about something. Just how interested is he in Chance? To go this far, purely to try to get a little extra leverage thats disturbing. </em>


    How about one more good act? It wouldnt cause any trouble for you, since youre so confident that all good is repaid in evil.


    Yamish tilted his head to the side. What do you speak of?


    Some advice. Free of charge.


    Rilu didnt receive a response to that, which he took as a resounding agreement.


    I dont think you understand Chance at all. Do you really think keeping his allies weak will hold him back or make him turn to you?


    Yes. When cornered, the mouse will pray to the cat, even knowing that what lies in wait is death.


    A bark ofughter escaped Rilus mouth. Yeah, you dont get him at all. Come on. Even I know him better than that, and Ive been watching from the sidelines. Chance wouldnt pray to the cat. Hed make friends with the damn thing. And, if that didnt work, hed find another way. If you weaken his allies, he wont leave them behind. Hell stay with them. All youll do is slow his growth.


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    Yamish watched Rilu silently. It was impossible to tell what was going on within the cultivators eyes, but hisck of response spoke volumes  and Rilu took it as a request to keep talking.


    You want to make him strong? Stop treating him like some random cultivator. He repeatedly puts his life on the line for people he cares about, not himself. You should be encouraging that. Theyll literally get themselves into situations where they need your help on their own  and then Chance wille to you, because he knows you werent the one that put them there. Why do you think he didnt call out for you, even when Vex was moments from killing them?


    He trusted in your powers. You interfered.


    No. If I hadnt done anything, he still wouldnt have reached out to you. He doesnt trust you, Yamish. Why would he? Youve tried to manipte him at every turn. Calling to you might havended Be in the same position that she was in before  and Chance knows shed rather die than return to that.


    You call it maniption. It is not. It is assistance. I have been guiding him. These challenges make him more than he was before.


    And they make sure he doesnt trust you, Rilu pointed out. Youre so far gone from human that you cant think like one anymore. In the end, it doesnt matter. I cant control you. Youre beyond my power and we both know it. But, if you want Chance to ever listen to a single thing you want him to do, youd best find a way to start ying by his rules.


    Anger shed across Yamishs features. Essence swirled around his body, shing against Rilus own Essence. The room shuddered around them before Yamish let the power fade away.


    I am the Master. I do not y by any rules but my own.


    Then youll keep trying to force him to y your game until he breaks it or you break him.


    Yamish didnt respond to that. Rilu got the feeling that he was trying to decide on if he wanted to attack or not, but Yamish hadnt gotten to his age and power by swinging his fists around haphazardly.


    Curious. You believe Chance would be more amiable to a softer hand?


    Rilu shuddered. Dont seduce him. I dont think you could do that if you wanted to. Just let the kid live. Helle for help before you know it. But, the more you try to force him into anything, the more hell resist you. Thats all Im saying.


    Yamish disappeared.


    It was so sudden that Rilu half expected he was about to get attacked, but no such thing happened. Instead, all that greeted him was silence. His lips pressed thin and he heaved a sigh.


    <em>Crazy cultivator, that Yamish. Good luck, Chance. I hope I bought you at least a little time to rx. Theres not much more I can do for you from here, so youd best enjoy it. </em>


    ***


    The roar of a dense crowd greeted Chance and Be as Gleam materialized beneath their feet. It was somehow bothforting and disconcerting. It felt like so long since Chance had left Gleam with the threat of death hanging over his head that, even though Yamish had confirmed it was safe to return, he couldnt help but feel like someone was going to try to run him through.


    Theyd been deposited right at the edge of the crowd around the gate, but even standing across the road from them did nothing to drown out the noise. Chance turned in a circle, taking in the city once more.


    Somewhere deep within him, he felt Ocie stir slightly. It was only for an instant, and she was gone when he tried to reach out to her again, but it sent a rush of relief through his body.


    <em>Shes still around. Good. </em>


    Its really weird, isnt it? Be asked. Being back in Gleam.


    Yeah. I was just thinking the same, Chance admitted. He rubbed the back of his neck and stepped to the side, ducking into the shadow of an awning. For a while, all I wanted to do wase back. Now Im kind of terrified. What if


    Then were dead. No point worrying, Be interrupted. Either Yamish lied or he didnt. One way or another, I think I want to go home. What about you?


    Yeah. Chance grinned. Fair point. Well have to go find Jade once we settle in. Maybe she can help us figure out where Yeo is. Wren too, for that matter. We owe him a thank you.


    One step at a time. Beughed, equal parts amusement and relief. There was ayer of weariness to her posture that only came with weeks of stress without a break in between.


    They set off down the road, Be at the lead. With Ocie in her current state, Chance didnt want to try using the Old City. Even if it did let them in, he wasnt certain it would actually do what he wanted it to.


    Without the Old City, the trip to Shikari Lane took hours. The first few were especially nerve-wracking. Every single time Chance passed a Shikari or anyone who looked remotely like a warrior, the hair on the back of his neck stood on end and he had to resist the urge to duck away.


    Nobody pulled them aside. Nobody even seemed to notice them. As time wore on, more of the fear started to fade. Gleam was an unbelievably massive city. It was far too busy to remember old events, especially when theyd been rtively minor.


    Perhaps the Shikari that had actually been assigned to the job still remembered it, but they werent wanted criminals. There were no posters stered on the walls with their faces. Chance and Be were just two more passersby in the massive crowds  and it felt great.


    Finally, as the sun started to set overhead, some of the buildings they passed by started to look familiar. They strode past Hounds, and then they were on Shikari Lane. Subconsciously, both he and Be started to walk faster.


    By the time they reached the Whiteheart House, they were practically running. They raced up to the door, skidding to a stop right before they bowled through it. Be beat Chance to knocking on it.


    No more than a secondter, it swung open. Petes kindly, wrinkled face greeted them, a huge smile spreading across his lips and he let out a boomingugh. You kids made it back!. Barely believed my eyes when I got the letter saying the job for you had been called off this morning.


    Chance was surprised to find emotion welling within his own chest. Yeah. We came back as soon as we could.


    You must have been through a lot, Pete said, his smile fading into a worried frown. He stepped back, gesturing for them to step inside. Please. Tell me over dinner.


    That would be great, Be said, mirroring Chances thoughts perfectly as the two of them stepped inside and Pete closed the door behind them.


    They were home.

 Chapter 131: As it should

    Chapter 131: As it should


    Pete herded Chance and Be over to the dining room table and practically pushed them into their chairs. He hustled into the kitchen and started to pull ingredients out of the ice box.


    I wasnt expecting anypany so soon or I would have had something ready, Pete said with an embarrassedugh. The thunk of a knife on a cutting board apanied his words as he chopped up a vegetable reminiscent of a green onion.


    Itspletely fine, Chance said. We didnt really warn you. To be honest, I dont think either of us thought wed be back in Gleam today. Its been a pretty hectic few days.


    I can imagine. Pete scraped the onions to the side and looked over the counter at them. You both feel stronger. Considerably so. Did you be Knight Ranked?


    We did, Be confirmed.


    Youve formed your Center, then. Pete gave them an approving nod. Well done, both of you. It can take a very long time for young cultivators toe to understand their Essence enough to create a Center.


    Is that the little ball of energy thats in my chest, behind my sr plexus? Chance asked.


    Its not just energy. Its a physical manifestation of your Essence, and its the next step in your road to bing a truly powerful being. Pete poured water into a pot and set it on the stove, then set about chopping up a variety of vegetables and seasoned meats. Firstes the Gate. It efficiently converts the energy of your surroundings into your Essence. The Center is a storage. Theres only so much power a mortal body can hold, so your strength is fairly limited until you can form a Center to contain the excess.


    I can see auras as well, now. Is that because my body is just holding more Essence so Im more attuned to it or something like that?


    Precisely. Pete beamed and set the lid on his pot. With the aid of his staff, he walked over to their table and pulled a chair out to sit down. He lowered himself andid the staff against the wall. Knight Rank is the core of the Shikari. Most cultivators in our ranks are Knights. Youve reallye quite a ways in just a few meagre months.


    The threat of death is a great motivator, Be said, only half joking.


    Petes lips pressed tight. Yes, I can imagine. If you can share, what happened that day you were forced to flee?


    A cultivator I used to know in my past showed up in Gleam, Be said. Chance could tell that she was choosing her words carefully  not to avoid giving her own secrets away, but to make sure she didnt identally tread on his own territory. Considering how Yamish was, Chance was pretty sure Be was making the right call.


    A single cultivator? Thats why there were assassinsing after you?


    A very powerful one, Be said. I dont actually know how powerful he was, but he was well above a Rank 6. He made the Shikari send assassins after me, Chance, and Yeo, but all he ever wanted was to go after me. Chance and Yeo just got caught up because they were my friends.


    What a vile wretch of a man. Those with power should defend the weak, not attack them. Petes eyes narrowed with fury. How did you manage to slip thesso of someone that powerful?


    Luck, mostly, Be admitted, sending an amused nce in Chances direction. For a while, it didnt look like he was onto us. The Shikari were searching, but we traveled until we got to the Dancing Cloud sect.


    You joined a sect? Petes eyebrows rose. Bold, if someone was actively chasing you.


    That was why we figured it could work, Chance put in. Nobody looks under their own nose, and there werent going to be any Shikari in the area. It kind of did work, for a bit.


    For a bit? Pete chuckled. All things work until they dont.


    Chance ran into a Shikari while he was on a mission for the sect, Be said. She was traveling with another Shikari  someone called Shae.


    The smile vanished from Petes face like a candle in a hurricane. He shifted, leaning forward. Shae? Hes searching for you?


    Hes dead, Chance said.


    Pete froze. You killed him?


    Technically, no. Im getting there, Be said. By the time Shae managed to track us down in the Dancing Cloud sect, wed earned some tokens to an Ancient Realm to represent the sect. When Shae showed up, he ran into the Red Hand, who Chance somehow made friends with.


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    Wait, what? Pete pped his hands against the table and rose to his feet. Where did thate from?


    Maybe I should fill a few things in. Chance stifled augh and briefly went back over their trek from Gleam, talking about how theyd run into the group of bandits and how hed met Lin in a bath house.


    Petes eyebrows continued to creep up his forehead as Chance talked about their retreat through the Ancient Realm and the fight theyd had with the Essence Eater. He burst intoughter upon hearing that theyd left some treasure behind for others to pick up, but that amusement vanished when he got to the Brackern Sect.


    A mixture of sadness and relief washed over Petes face as the two of them finished the tale with the fight theyd had against Vex and Shae, culminating in tricking Vex into cutting through the scroll.


    They left out all the details with Yamish and their more personal moments. The entire story had taken nearly thirty minutes to properly get through, and Pete nearly let the stew bubble over before Be reminded him of it.


    But, finally, they were finished. Three bowls sat on the table before them, mostly untouched. Pete leaned back in his chair and shook his head. Absolutely heart wrenching and incredible. You never should have been put through something like this, but surviving it I couldnt even imagine doing something like that at your age.


    I can still barely believe it myself, Chance said. He took a sip of the stew and his eyes lit up. Theyd been living off field rations for far too long. Grabbing the bowl, Chance tipped it back and shoveled the meal into his mouth, chewing as fast as he could without choking.


    That was the tipping point. Be grabbed her own bowl and went to town, and Pete could do nothing but join them. The rest of dinner passed both quickly and in silence. While Chance and Be were busy eating, Pete was lost in contemtion.


    None of them spoke until theyd all finished their meals  and their second helpings.


    At first, I was thrilled that the Shikari have removed the bounty on your heads, Pete said, picking their dishes up and taking them to the sink before anyone could protest. Now, I feel like they havent done nearly enough.


    It wasnt their fault, Chance said. They were just following orders.


    Pete snorted. Following orders. We are humans. We have brains. Anyone can get an order, but the purpose of a cultivator is to <em>think</em>. We are meant to be a shining example  the protectors of the world, not the ones that gue it.


    Theres nothing that can be done about it. Were alive, Be said. Im happy with that. Trying to demand reparations from the Shikari would almost certainly go poorly.


    Perhaps, but it doesnt change the fact that apologies should be made. Your reputations have been marred. Even if the bounty is no longer on your heads, as soon as you do anything toe into the light, people will remember.


    Thats fine. Well just stay out of the public eye for a while, Chance said.


    Both Pete and Be stared at him. Chance blinked. What? What did I say?


    Youre good at a lot of things, Be said gently. But you are horrible at not sticking your nose in ces it doesnt belong.


    Chance opened his mouth, then closed it again. He cleared his throat and sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. Okay, fair point. It doesnt matter to me, though. If people want to spread rumors, they can.


    Thats more along the lines that I was thinking. Be looked to Pete and gave him a small smile. Ive never cared about what others thought about me. Everyone of relevance knows the truth. Idiots will always have something to harp about.


    Bah. There you go, making me look like a grumpy codger rather than a mentor. Pete shook a finger at Be, then walked over to the table so he could reim his staff. Maybe you should be teaching me, eh?


    They allughed, and Chance wouldnt have traded the feeling for the world. It felt good to finally be able to let his guard down. Hede to think of the Whiteheart house as home. It was almost perfect.


    There was just one thing missing.


    The smile on his lips faded slightly and Be spotted it a moment before Pete did.


    Is something wrong? Be asked.


    Im fine. I was thinking about how much Id missed this, Chance said. Its just that its too bad Yeo isnt here. I dont know where he went, and I dont know if he heard the information that we arent being hunted anymore. Hes probably been really lonely.


    I get the feeling he probably loved every second of it. Be scrunched her nose. This would have fit into his whole <em>be famous </em>scheme, wouldnt it?


    Chance chuckled. Yeah, it probably would have. Still, though. Do you think Jade found him? I hope hes alright.


    Theres no way that insufferable prick went down easily. We probably drew all the attention from the Shikari, Be said with a dismissive wave. She was doing an impressive job of pretending not to care, but after all the time that Chance had spent around her, he recognized the subtle creases in her forehead and cheeks that revealed her true thoughts.


    Be was just as worried about Yeo as he was  she just didnt want to admit it.


    As Chance opened his mouth, there was a loud thud. They all spun toward the door as it flew open to reveal Yeo. He had several new scars on his skin and looked thinner than he had when theydst met, but even if his entire body had been reced, Chance would have recognized the cocky grin on his face.


    Hows that for a dramatic entrance? I heard you talking about me, Yeo said, cackling at the looks on their faces. The man of the hour has returned. I will ept your tearful greetings now. Ill have you know that I was standing around out there for almost an hour waiting for someone to mention me.


    For several moments, nobody spoke. Then Be spun, grabbing a loaf of bread from the counter, and flinging it at his head. It bounced off and Yeo caught it, taking arge bite.


    That finally broke the shock. Chance shook his head andughed as Pete rushed over to Yeo, letting loose a mixture of annoyed curses and questions as to how hed been.


    <em>Now everything is really as it should be. </em>

 Chapter 132: Start of Book 3 - Indulge & Book 2 out on Amazon!

    Chapter 132: Start of Book 3 - Indulge & Book 2 out on Amazon!


    Pete wasted no time in rushing Yeo over to the table and getting a bowl of soup before him. Part of Chance could hardly believe what was happening. It hadnt really been all that long since theyd all left Gleam, but it felt like ages.


    Have you been safe? Pete asked, lowering himself back into his chair. Youve picked up some scars, Yeo.


    Yeo looked down at himself, then shrugged. Yeah. They look pretty cool, huh? I think they add to my appeal.


    Was it rough for you? Chance asked. I wish we could have managed to grab you before we had to run from Gleam. We were in some pretty deep shit.


    Nah, it was fine. I just spent a bunch of time training, really. Yeo waved a hand dismissively and blew on a spoonful of soup before drinking it. He let out a satisfied sigh. This food tastes way better than what I was eating, though. I officially hate field rations.


    Yeo devoured the rest of the meal in seconds, then leaned back in his chair and patted his stomach. I hope you guys kept up on your training. Im pretty impressive, so you might have fallen behind. Im already


    Rank Three, right? Be grinned. So are we. Sorry.


    Oh,e on. Yeo red at Be. Stealing my thunder. I bet you were waiting to do that all the way until we got back. But, if Im being honest with you, I almost missed it. Ive just been bored out of my mind training.


    I think we had more than enough excitement for all three of us, Chance grumbled. Count yourself lucky. Vex came after us.


    The easygoing grin on Yeos lips vanished in a heartbeat. Youre kidding me. Seriously? What happened?


    He died, Chance replied. He was rewarded with the very satisfying sight of Yeos eyes going as wide as saucers. Yeo nearly hit his knee on the underside of the table in his haste to sit up and stare in shock.


    Bullshit, Yeo said. You killed him? At Rank 3?


    Not really. He kind of killed himself. Chance briefly exined Vexs hunt and how the cultivator had met his end at the hands of a scroll. By the time he was finished, Yeo was ring daggers at him.


    Of course youd manage to stumble your way into a victory. Yeo rolled his eyes. Youre so lucky. That must have felt good, though. Especially for Be.


    You have absolutely no idea, Be said. But Im just d to be back in one piece. Im not even sure what Ill do from here. I cant remember a time when Vex wasnt hanging over my head.


    What else happened for you two? Did I miss anything cool other than Vex getting killed?


    A lot, Chance admitted with a sheepishugh. We destroyed a ver sect and I identally made friends with Lin the Red Hand, among other things.


    When Chance says other things, he means visiting an ancient realm and proceeding to refuse to take ny percent of all the artifacts we found in it. Be gave Chance a good-natured prod in the side. And then he sacrificed the artifacts we <em>did </em>manage to bring out. The only physical thing we have to show from the whole trip is a ring.


    Yeo let out a cackle. You know, thats the most Chance thing Ive ever heard. Let me guess  he didnt take the artifacts because he would have felt bad leaving nothing for other people?


    Ding.


    Chance reddened as Yeo and Be both started tough even harder. Even Pete couldnt keep himself from joining in.


    Sorry,d, Pete said. Youre certainly one of a kind.


    Ive missed this a lot. Things havent been right when we were apart  and Chance needs someone with a brain on his shoulders to be with him, or hell keep giving things away for free.


    Whats that meant to mean? Be asked, crossing her arms.


    Oh,e on. Youve got a soft spot for him. Youre only ever strict with me, grandma.


    Be opened her mouth, then closed it again, settling for rolling her eyes. Thats just because you deserve it. I cant say I didnt miss this  just dont expect me to ever admit that again. Im looking forward to doing normal missions once more.


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    Mee too. Yeo shed them a toothy smile. Though Id say the next step should probably be pretty small. Rx a bit, you know? Start with some really easy,id back things.


    Be tilted her head to the side. Chance was equally as taken aback. That was a strikingly easygoing suggestion. It wasnt one that hed expected toe from Yeo.


    <em>Maybe all the time he spent training actually made him mellow out a little? Odd. If anything, I would have thought that hed be way more crazy now. </em>


    Thats a good idea, Be said. After weve all gotten some time to rx, we can go do some normal missions.


    Exactly. We should probably start by making a name for ourselves again. Yeo tapped a finger against his chin. Why dont we find a bunch of other Rank 3 teams and crush them in sparring matches, then make them work for us to form an empire of young Shikari teams?


    Chance and Be stared at him.


    Thats what you consider starting small? Chance cut himself off as he saw a smirk slip across Yeos lips. They were getting yed with  it hadnt taken Yeo long to go right back to his normal self.


    What? Why not? Its a good way to remind people who we are.


    Very funny. Be rolled her eyes. But, jokes aside, we might actually want toy low for a little while, dont you think? Id imagine people arent going to look to kindly on us, even with the order for our heads lifted.


    Wood scraped against stone as Yeo pushed his chair back. He stood up, scrunching his nose and letting out a sigh. God, youre so responsible. Its <emme</em>. Youre totally right, though. We probably dont have very many allies right now. Taking some chill jobs and letting a month or two pass is a good idea.


    When were ready, it would be nice to reconnect with Wren, Chance suggested. If it wasnt for him, things might have turned out a lot worse for us. We should find Jade as  oh. Well have to introduce you to Jade. She was one of the Shikari chasing us, but we became friends.


    I know.


    Chance blinked. You do?


    Its kind of obvious. Half the people you meet end up as your friends, Be pointed out.


    Thats also true, Yeo said, grinning like a Cheshire cat. But thats not how I knew. Ive actually met Jade.


    Seriously? She found you? Chance asked. We asked her to try and check up on you, but I was worried she wouldnt be able to figure out where you were. Thats great! How is she doing?


    Well, we got off to a bit of a rocky start, but everything smoothed out. Shes fine, as far as I know. We didnt get too much time to talk since she met me while the Shikari were still hunting us, Yeo said. He stretched his arms above his head. She told me a bit about how you guys met and that she was on my side, but I havent spoken with her since.


    Its good to know shes fine, Chance said. I was a little worried she might get med for Shaes death.


    She talked a bit about that, but it seems like the Shikari arentplete scumbags. There was a slight note of bitterness in Yeos voice that Chance couldnt me himself for. For a protective force meant to be enforcing justice, the Shikari hadpletely failed them. Either way, Jade is fine. She didnt tell me where she lived, but I imagine well run into her soon enough.


    Chance yawned. He was somewhat surprised to find just how tired he was, but it wasnt hard to tell why. After weeks on weeks of tension and running, dropping his guard had hit him with a massive adrenaline drop.


    Sorry, Chance said. I think Im pretty exhausted.


    Youll never hear me say it again, but so am I, Yeo said. You have no idea how many Shikari I had to fight over the past few weeks. Jade said she and Shae were the first to find you guys. If it wasnt for everything else that had happened, Id say you were lucky.


    Be rolled her eyes and Yeo snickered. Chance just let out an amused sigh. He probably wasnt going to get away from lucky jokes at any point in the near future.


    Perhaps its time to retire to bed, then, Pete said. Ill handle cleaning up after dinner. Youll all find that everything is as you left it  minus any holes in the walls from the fights. Please, rest. Tomorrow, you will need to determine what course of action you will set for the future. But that is tomorrow, and today is today.


    Words had never sounded wiser to Chance, and the others clearly felt the same way. They all pushed back from the table, thanking Pete and heading toward their rooms. It felt oddly surreal to be walking up the wooden stairs.


    <em>I didnt realize quite how much I missed this. I cant wait to hear more about what happened to Yeo, but not until tomorrow. </em>


    Chance yawned again, stopping as he drew up to his room. The door hung slightly askew, weing him inside. He paused to look over his shoulder.


    Goodnight, guys. Weve got a lot more to talk about tomorrow, yeah?


    Youve got no idea, Yeo said with a grin. And you better get ready to spar. Im going to be finding out just how much stronger youve gotten.


    Count on it, Chance said.


    Me too, Be added.


    Yeo nced at Be in surprise. Really?


    Why not?


    No reason, youre wee to it. I kind of expected you to roll your eyes or something. No real reason why.


    Do you want me to? I can. Maybe you just missed it.


    Yeo held his hands up in defeat. If I did, I imagine Ill get over it soon enough. See you nerds tomorrow.


    He slipped into his room, giving them both a wink before closing the door. Chance quickly walked over to Bes room before she could step into it. He leaned in, giving her a quick kiss.


    Its nice to be home.


    Tell me about it. Be touched her cheek. See you tomorrow.


    She waited until Chance had returned to his room to close the door. Even as Chance let his own door swing shut behind him, the only thing in his room that his eyes could pick up was the bed. It swam before him, beckoning with promises of sweet rest and rxation.


    He indulged it.


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