《Revival of Undead King》


 Prologue

    Around year 1,000, in the land of Aproxi, when there was supposed to be summer, it was winter. A hellish winter. The people were preparing for the warmth of the summer but instead got to face the cold of the winter. Their preparations ended up wasted. A crisis started. The sudden change of climate made many people and animals die due to coldness, but nobles didn¡¯t have as much of a calamity as the commoners since they had better places to live, but that didn¡¯t make them comfortable because it still wouldn¡¯t change the fact that it was in the middle of the cold winter.


    The source of all this mess was the Undead King. A king of all non-living beings. His other titles, Underworld monarch, Ice monarch, Terror of livings and master of the seven disasters. Knowing the one behind the winter, people gathered and started their death march towards the land of undead where the Undead king lived.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    The march didn¡¯t go well because of the harsh winter and endless snow falling from the sky. Some of the people died due to coldness, some died because of lack of food and many of them were killed by the undead army while fighting.


    70% of all people that marched died in the battle. It was almost the of them, but suddenly, the Dragon King arrived with his people and helped the people of Aproxi in defeating many of the undead. The Dragon king faced the Undead in a great battle. Black flame clashed against white ice. In the end, the Undead king disappear and the nightmare winter disappeared.

 Evan part 1

    Present time.


    In the far east of Aproxi, there is a kingdom known as the Noguard kingdom. Near the border to the west, lies a small village called Ovuca where a young man lives. He got white hair and blue eyes. His body is straight and he had big muscles. With his handsome face covered by dirt and sweat, he is clearly attracting wild imagination. He was holding an axe with his both hands, a sharp axe that had been used many times and sharpened a countless amount of times.


    He raises the axe and swings it towards the log in front of him. The axe split the log into two but it¡¯s not a clean cut.


    ¡°Good, finally, after countless tries. You managed to hit the log.¡± a man in his thirties sighs and walks up to the man with white hair.


    The white haired man only laughed as he pulled out the axe from the log, and then gave it to the other man.


    ¡°Thank you uncle Crim, I''m not good for nothing after all.¡± he laughed.


    ¡°Haha.... Well, even though it¡¯s not a clean cut yet. You''ve done well Evan.¡± uncle Crim patted Evan¡¯s shoulder with a smile.


    ¡°Now, let me do the rest.¡±


    ¡°No uncle, I can-¡±


    ¡°Sheesh, it¡¯s already noon. Sorry, but I need to get this work done fast.¡±


    Crim took over the role as a woodcutter and split the other log cleanly. It¡¯s a clear gap between amateur and expert. But Evan is not your ordinary amateur. He is the one who got the title ¡®Good for nothing¡¯.


    Evan got the title because he would always fail countless times while doing something. Like cutting the log, he has already tried doing it more than one hundred times but only one hit succeeded. Some people said that he is a very slow learner but that is not the case for Evan.


    His mind is always disturbed whenever he is doing something and has a hard time doing it correctly. He can¡¯t explain what it is that disturbed him. But there is one thing that he is good at. That is fighting. Evan is a natural born fighter. He once brawled with his father and he managed to corner his father who is the strongest man in the village. When he fought, his mind didn¡¯t get any disturbance but rather it¡¯s clear like the stream of a river.


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    Evan is fifteen years old but his body is far more developed than the average fifteen-year-old body. He looks more like an eighteen-year-old man than a fifteen-year-old boy. Evan is the only son and child of Oswald and Katrina. Oswald is the hunter and the strongest man in this village. His job is to protect the village from wild animals and hunt them down. While his mother, Katrina, is one of the prima donnas in this village. She is beautiful and her trait was inherited to Evan.


    Evan possessed the good physical abilities of his father and the handsome face of his mother. But the only things that only he got are his white hair and his blue eyes. His father got brown hair just like his mother. Oswald has black eyes and Katrina has green eyes. Evan was considered as a unique one.


    ¡°Haa.... Nothing to do.¡± Evan sighed as he was walking home. Evan wants his day filled with working but due to his reputation, no one is willing to let him help them.


    ¡°I¡¯m home.¡±


    ¡°Welcome home, Evan? Why such a long face?¡± his mother, Katrina greeted him. She looks young despite her age being over forty.


    ¡°Nothing to do. Mom, are you cooking?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± his mother is cutting the potato skillfully with a knife.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± she replied shortly which makes him looks dejected.


    ¡°Sorry Evan, but remember last time you tried to cut something? You almost got your fingers cut off.¡± she shivered remembering her own son almost cutting his own fingers.


    ¡°Well, I won¡¯t repeat it again.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s sharp, I can¡¯t let my son lose his fingers.¡±


    ¡°Okay mom, then, I''ll be heading to my room.¡± while looking dejected, he forced himself to his room and lied down on his bed. He sighed thrice and then closed his eyes.


    ¡°Remember, you are me. I am you.¡±

 Evan part 2

    ¡°Remember, you are me. I¡¯m you.¡±


    He opened his eyes. Those words were something that he couldn¡¯t forget for a long time. He didn''t get the meaning who is ¡®me¡¯. He didn''t get that meaning but he always thinking of it.


    ¡°Ah, aunt Katrina. Is Evan here?¡±


    A cheerful and loud voice can be heard. His room made of thin wall, so he could have heard voice from the outside.


    ¡°He is inside the room. Come in.¡± his mother said.


    Evan know who is going to come in. His childhood friend, Nimura. Evan stood from his bed and open the door. At the same time, Nimura is in front of the door and got shocked.


    ¡°You shocked me!¡± she said. ¡°I was going to surprise you but it ends up a failure.¡± she sighed.


    ¡°How can you surprise me? You are too loud and so I''m noticed that you are here.¡± Evan said with a smile.


    Nimura slightly blushed and then she grabbed Evan¡¯s arm and pulls it. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± she said.


    ¡°To where?¡±


    ¡°Hunting fishes!¡± Nimura said happily. Evan didn¡¯t object that, at least, he will get something to do.


    ¡°Where are you two- oh my...¡± Katrina put her hand to her mouth and looks surprised. She winked at Nimura few times.


    Evan didn¡¯t understand what those winks for. Katrina took two boiled potatoes and gave it to Evan and Nimura.


    ¡°Thank you, aunt!¡±


    ¡°Thanks, mom, we¡¯ll be right back!¡±


    They went outside and walks together with Nimura still clinging on Evan¡¯s right arm. The villagers who passing by looking at them with giggle or curiosity. This is makes Evan felt embarrassed, he eat the potato while looking at the sky to reduce the embarassment.


    ¡°Say Nimura, hunting fish.... But we don''t bring the tool.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. We will make one!¡± she tightened herself to Evan¡¯s arm. He could feel something soft but it¡¯s not yet developed. But making the tool to hunt the fish. Evan is not good with that; he might have injured himself in the process.


    The place they are going is a river not far from the village and near the forest. When arrive, Nimura took a stick nearby and sharpening it. Luckily Nimura bringing a knife and make the process of making spear shorter.


    ¡°Done!¡± Nimura said while raising the spear and give to Evan.


    ¡°They never see you hunt the fish before, right? But you actually good at it.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Evan didn¡¯t remember much. All he remembers, when he met animals, they are ran away and even fish dared to oppose the stream of water just to not get near Evan.


    ¡°Now go! Hunt many fishes!¡±


    ¡°Easier to be said than be done.¡± Evan sighed and folded his trouser and took off his shoes then stepping to the river.


    ¡°Hmm...¡± Evan observing the river and raise his spear. The river is clean, so fishes can be seen right away. But there is no fish nearby Evan.


    ¡®I guess I have to throw it.¡¯


    The fishes which trying to run from Evan got pierced by the spear after he threw the spear.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    ¡°Amazing!¡± Nimura clapped.


    ¡°You¡¯re good!¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah...¡±


    Evan didn¡¯t feel any disturbance in his head when he threw the spear. It¡¯s feels weird for him. He walks to the spear and took the fish. He keeps repeating throwing the spear to catch the fishes.


    The fishes that have been caught are brought with a cloth that Nimura brought.


    ¡°fifteen fishes! Yup! You¡¯re really good at it.¡± Nimura complimented him.


    ¡°Not that amazing, if the fishes just near me. It will be around twenty....¡± Evan scratched his head. Sadly, there isn¡¯t any animal that would dare come to him.


    ¡°Now now, it¡¯s earlier than expected. So, let¡¯s go back to the village and have the fishes grilled.¡±


    ¡°Sounds good.¡±


    They return when the sun is moved to the west and the sky is got bit darker. Evan looking at the sky and feels comfortable, he feels comfortable at something dark, especially when it¡¯s night.


    ¡°Nimura!¡± arriving at the village, someone called her name. A man with huge body and three people following behind him came to them.


    ¡°Kalba?¡± Nimura tilted her head and furrowed. Evan know who is Kalba. His childhood friend but somehow he is hostile to Evan without stating any reason. He, Evan and Nimura were once always together but sadly they never became like that anymore.


    ¡°Why are you with Evan?¡± Kalba asked and glared at Evan.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your business with who I''m going with.¡± she pouted and looks away from Kalba. Kalba become more displeased and his gazing falling to Nimura who holds Evan¡¯s arm. He walks to them and suddenly pulls Nimura away from Evan.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t go with him. He is good for nothing.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know anything about him, he isn¡¯t good for nothing!¡± Nimura breaks free from Kalba¡¯s hand and once she turns to Evan. Three people already surrounded Evan.


    ¡°Kalba! Stop it!¡±


    ¡°Beat him!¡± Kalba ordered.


    The three-people chuckled while stepping closer towards Evan. He put down the fishes he brought to the ground and looking at the three people. The first one suddenly launch a punch from Evan¡¯s right. Evan swayed his body away and grabbed his arm and pulled him then kick him away towards the second. The third charging but before he come closer to Evan, he got a fast punch on his face and immediately fall down. The first and the second slowly stood and attacking Evan at the same time.


    Evan moved his feet to dodge and launch punches from below which is knocking down the two of them.


    ¡°Phew.....¡± Evan exhaled and then glaring at Kalba.


    ¡°I might be good for nothing but I''m good at fighting, oh, hunting fish too.¡± he said with a smile which makes Kalba more displeased and charging at him while raising his fist.


    Evan ready to dodge and counter it but suddenly Kalba pushed him and locked him on the ground. He raised his fist towards Evan, yet, before he swings his fist. A punch landed on Kalba¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°What the heck are you doing?!¡± an angry voice coming from a big man. He is Kalba¡¯s father.


    ¡°Picking a fight, i didn¡¯t teach you to become a brat! Come here! You too Evan!¡±


    Evan obediently follows Kalba¡¯s father who pulling Kalba by force. Two of them then forced going inside a hut. This hut is a small jail for someone who done bad things.


    ¡°Sorry Evan for my son¡¯s trouble. I¡¯ll call you father right away.¡± Kalba¡¯s father said while looking apologetic. Yet, he looks angry to his son, he closes the hut¡¯s door and locked it. Kalba¡¯s father is a blacksmith here and also the one in charge of security.


    ¡°Sheesh.... What¡¯s wrong with you Kalba?¡± Evan said while looking tired.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me? Nothing wrong! Just feels super jealous against someone who thicks as you!¡± Kalba shouted and then grumbled.


    ¡°Me? Thick? What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Do I have to- argh! Listen, when we were kids, Nimura always likes you! And I likes- love Nimura! But she always with you and that makes me angry towards you!¡±


    Evan became quiet after heard that. He is close to Nimura, be he never think of her like that. He thinks of her as a childhood friend and best friend. But now Kalba said it all.


    ¡°Kalba, aren¡¯t you being childish?¡±


    ¡°Childish? Listen, because of love, even two countries went to war. Anyway, someone thick as you wouldn¡¯t understand!¡±


    ¡°Wha- why are you calling me thick?! Why don¡¯t you just confess to her?¡±


    ¡°You think that¡¯s easy?! If it is, i would already confess to her!¡± Kalba felt helpless to Evan. He even wondering why he told all of it to Evan, he hostile to Evan just because love, it was childish but what can you expect when the girl you like is close to your friend.


    ¡°Alright, I''ll help you to confess.¡±


    ¡°You- aghh, forget it! I¡¯m going to confess by myself.¡± it would become bad if Evan help him. Nimura likes, no, maybe already love since long time ago. And the one she love is helping someone confess to her? What a joke.


    ¡°So, basically we are not a friend anymore because of that reason? Erasing that reason, we are friends, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah....¡±


    ¡°Good!¡± Evan extending his hand to Kalba.


    Kalba wondering why Evan can accept all of it right away. He even didn¡¯t have grduge to Kalba. But Kalba himself want to end this hostility towards Evan, he wants to become friend once again. He grabbed Evan¡¯s hand and both of them handshake each other.


    Shortly after that, the door open and they allowed to go out. Kalba¡¯s father apologize to Evan¡¯s father. Oswald has bulky body and scars on his face. He shifted his gaze to Evan and smiled.


    ¡°Hm, you fought over a girl huh....¡± Oswald said on their way to go home. Evan tilted his head.


    ¡°Father, it¡¯s not like you think though? Kalba loves Nimura but I''m not.¡±


    Oswald blinked few times before sighing.


    ¡°You such a thick. Are you even interested towards her?¡±


    ¡°Why you called me thick too? Our relationships are a best friend only.¡±


    Once again Oswald sighed. He hoped that his son would find a girl that will melt his thickness in the future.


    ¡°What are you praying for?¡±


    ¡°Nothing.¡±

 Revive

    The next day. Evan woke up before dawn. The reason of that is another weird dream. He dream about countless people died in the winter and countless undead rise from death. It¡¯s short but it feels forever. Evan decide to take an exercise.


    He running around the village till sweats covered his body and then he used a cloth to wipe the sweat. He takes a look at the sky, the sun is rising.


    ¡°Morning thick.¡± a familiar voice which makes Evan frowned.


    ¡°Why calling me thick?¡± he said. The one who called him was Kalba. He got much more friendly face than before


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to understand that thick.¡±


    ¡°Stop calling me thick!¡±


    Kalba laughed by Evan¡¯s reaction. He is too thick to know why he is called thick.


    ¡°Morning you two!¡± the cheerful voice. Nimura greeted them and looks very happy.


    ¡°Morning Nimura.¡± Evan greeted her with a smile.


    ¡°Ah, morning.¡± Kalba scratched his head and looking away. His face is slightly blushed.


    ¡°You two looks lively in the morning. It¡¯s much better than before!¡± she said, she watched Kalba greeted Evan earlier and when they have quarreled a bit.


    ¡°Just like old times isn¡¯t?¡± she smiled brightly.


    ¡°Three of us.... together.¡±


    Three of them fell silent. Once again they reunited as friends. But deep inside themselves, they are changed. They are not kids anymore. Especially Nimura and Kalba. Even though they are together, they are changed. Evan is an exception since he is thick and not think about the future of three of them.


    ¡°Well! Why don¡¯t we go play like before?¡± Nimura said and grabbed both Evan¡¯s and Kalba¡¯s arm then pulls them.


    ¡°Play? But we are not kids anymore.¡± said Kalba with blush on his face.


    ¡°What are you talking about Kalba? It¡¯s not like playing is limited for children only.¡± Evan answered.


    ¡°He is right! So, let¡¯s go to the forest!¡±


    When they were kids, they often playing at nearby forest. No matter where they go, they are always together. Back then, their friendships are unbreakable until emotion called love grow inside two of three.


    ¡°So, what are going to play?¡± Evan asked after arrived at the forest.


    ¡°How about hide and seek?¡±


    ¡°Okay, i¡¯m it and both of you quickly go to hide.¡± Evan said and he close his eyes and turn over his body. Both Kalba and Nimura start running into the deep of the forest. Evan counting till ten and finally he is going to seek them.


    Evan¡¯s steps are quiet and there is no noise at all. He hides between tree to tree and to a rock and bushes.


    ¡°I think this is the place. Evan wouldn¡¯t find us right away.¡± Kalba¡¯s voice.


    ¡°So, what are you going to say.... Make it quick before-¡±


    ¡°Nimura.¡± Kalba said and holds Nimura¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Ever since kids, i always love you....¡± Kalba continued with slight embarrassment on his face. Nimura¡¯s eyes widened and her heart beating really fast.


    ¡°Umm..... I....¡± Nimura flustered and don¡¯t know what to say.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re in love with Evan but i love you, that is why i told you know.... So, that....¡± Kalba scratched his head.


    ¡°Well...... I¡¯m still not confessing to him, so it¡¯s not fair. I don¡¯t know how to-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, after you confessed to him. I¡¯ll wait your answer.....¡± Kalba smiled.


    Nimura looking at him with widen eyes and then look below with smile.


    ¡°Thank you, at least you¡¯re not thick as him.¡± she said.


    ¡®Why is everyone calling me, thick.¡¯


    Evan frowned, he is actually hiding behind the tree nearby. Hearing his friend confessed, he feels happy but knowing Nimura is really loves him. He feels weird and awkward.


    Evan sighed and then faking himself by appear just now.


    ¡°Found you- two? You two didn¡¯t go hiding?¡± Evan acted as if he never heard anything.


    ¡°Well, you took a long time and I remembered that I got things to do.¡± said Kalba.


    ¡°Ah... Me too. I remembered about the fishes we caught yesterday, i forgot to keep it inside after dried them up.¡± said Nimura.


    ¡°Oh well..... That¡¯s mean we¡¯re going back home.¡± Evan looks dejected.


    ¡°Cheer up, we¡¯re going to play next time.¡± said Nimura. Evan slowly nodded and thus they are going home together. On their way, it¡¯s rather awkward and there is no conversation at all.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    Arriving at the village, they are returning home and Evan going back with dejected. He thought he finally reunited with two of them and going to have fun but it turned out to be awkward.


    Evan didn¡¯t do anything at all, he went to sleep after having lunch.


    ¡°Why? Why did you do this?! Are you giving up? Is your heart already fall to the abyss?!¡±


    ¡°You never understand Rivast. Besides, I no longer have a heart. I¡¯m an undead.....¡±


    ¡°Then why you-¡±


    ¡°Good bye Rivast.¡±


    Bam!


    ¡°Aaaaaaaahhhh!!¡±


    Scream. Evan woke up from his sleep with sweat. Countless screams can be heard outside and. He quickly stood and walks outside his room and found three armored people with weapons facing against his father and behind him there is his mother.


    ¡°Why fight back? Just give us your wife and we will never hurt you.¡± said one of the armored men while laughing. Oswald hold a spear and thrust it towards the neck of one of the armored men.


    ¡°Bastard! You don¡¯t know how to give up?!¡± one of them attacking, Oswald pull back his spear and blocked the attack. The spear easily split into two, Oswald use the upper broken spear and stab it towards the eye of the second man.


    ¡°Gaaaah! Fuck-¡±


    Oswald didn¡¯t stop there, he stabbed the other eye with the other part and blinded the man.


    ¡°Die!¡± the last one swing his sword towards Oswald, but Evan running towards him and picked the sword lying on the ground and thrust it towards the last man¡¯s neck.


    Blood sprouted from the neck and showering Evan. He fell to the ground and slowly touched the blood on his face.


    ¡®Feels familiar....¡¯ Evan thought. He killed someone and yet he didn¡¯t feel anything at all.


    ¡°Wake up Evan!¡± Oswald said as he picked the sword on the ground.


    ¡°Evan, get the sword. Follow me and protect your mother.¡±


    ¡°Y-yes!¡±


    Three of them slowly coming out from the house with Oswald is being in the lead. Evan widened his eyes, dozens armored men raiding the village and killing the villagers. He couldn¡¯t believe it, why his village got attacked? The kingdom is in peace, so why?


    ¡°Come!¡± said Oswald. Three of them starting running away.


    ¡°F-father, what about-¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t save them! We-¡±


    ¡°Where did you think you¡¯re going?¡± another armored people blocked their way. Oswald clicked his tongue and raise his sword. Evan unconsciously raise his sword and protect his mother.


    The armored man gazed fell to Katrina and smiled wickedly.


    ¡°Hmm... That woman looks good; we¡¯re going to have-¡±


    ¡°Not a chance!¡±


    Oswald starts attacking first but the armored man dodged and got angry.


    ¡°Kill the men! We¡¯ll take the woman!¡±


    ¡°Evan! Go!¡± Oswald ordered.


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°Go! Protect your- guuh!¡± Oswald blocking the attack and start the fight. Evan hesitated but pulls his mother and start running.


    ¡°Catch them!¡± the armored man ordered. Two armored men start chasing Evan and Katrina.


    Both of them aren¡¯t running really fast due to Katrina have low stamina. Evan stopped and protect his mother quickly.


    ¡°Trying to be brave kid?!¡± one of them swing its axe towards Evan. He dodged it and thrust his sword towards the elbow joint. He didn¡¯t stop there, he pulled out his sword and slit through the man¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Shit! Die!¡± the other man thrust his spear and Evan parried it away. He dashed forward and slash the man. His sword penetrated the armored man¡¯s armor and cut the chest. After killed two armored men, Evan stood while looking at the sword.


    ¡®Feels familiar....¡¯


    ¡°Evan!¡±


    Her mother shouted and Evan came back to the reality. A huge sword advancing to him and he don¡¯t have time to dodge.


    ¡°Guuuh!¡±


    Blood sprouted, it wasn¡¯t Evan¡¯s blood. But his mother¡¯s blood who protected him.


    ¡°M-mom?¡± Evan shocked and trembled. He holds his mother and looking at her.


    ¡°Ughh.... Son.... Stay alive.¡± Katrina smiled and coughing.


    ¡°Mom! Don¡¯t die! I promise to protect you!¡±


    ¡°Evan.... I¡¯m happy to have a son like you.¡± Katrina slowly touched Evan¡¯s face. Her eyes are getting heavy and she closed her eyes. She stopped breathing and her hand fell down leaving a blood mark on Evan¡¯s cheek


    ¡°Mom...... No.......¡± Evan crying and hug her mother tightly.


    ¡°Damn.... That¡¯s sad. We can¡¯t have fun with her.¡± the armored man with huge sword groaned. Evan twitched when he heard it. He put her mother down on the ground and pick his sword.


    An unbelievable emotion rising inside him. An emotion that more than angriness, a hatred and vengeance.


    ¡®Feels familiar....¡¯


    Evan stood and raise his sword towards the armored man.


    ¡°Heh, think you are-¡±


    Slash


    Evan cut the man¡¯s neck in instant. His body unconsciously filled with mana and he is using magic without knowing. He shifted his gaze towards his father. His father had died too. His heart fell into rage and charging at the one who killed his father.


    His speed is incredibly fast when he arrived, he cut one of three armored men and then move to kill the other one.


    ¡°Bastard! How did-¡±


    Slash


    The last one fell down with neck splits open. Evan¡¯s eyes turned cold. He glared at the other armored men who rampaging the village and he run at them.


    Evan moved his sword and feets in synchronization as if he were live and die for the sword. Every armored men he encounter fell like wheat before the scythe. Evan is like a reaper from an underworld.


    ¡°Fuck....Who is that kid?¡± other armored felt something different from Evan, they never expected that someone manage to kill more than twenty armored men.


    Right now..... Evan is trying to calming himself and observe his surroundings. Are there no villagers survived? No, there are two people and that people is Evan¡¯s friends. Kalba and Nimura.


    Kalba is holding a sword while protecting Nimura. Evan dashing towards them and brandish his sword towards the armored man near them.


    ¡°Evan?!¡±


    ¡°Evan!¡±


    Both of them shocked by Evan appearance who killed the armored man. He shifted his gaze to Kalba and Nimura.


    ¡°Both of you, run.¡± he said.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Kalba asked with worry.


    ¡°I¡¯m staying.¡± Evan turned his body and facing the armored men.


    ¡°No, we¡¯re not going to leave you!¡± Nimura said, tears almost flowing out from her eyes.


    ¡°Run! At least both of you survive. It will be fine!¡± he shouted and then glared at Kalba.


    ¡°Run, bring Nimura away.¡± he smiled.Kalba hesitated and bit his lips. He then forcefully carries Nimura and starts running away.


    ¡°No! Kalba! Stop!¡± Nimura struggling to escape from Kalba but her strength wasn¡¯t enough.


    ¡°Kalba stop! We can¡¯t leave Evan!¡±


    But Kalba didn¡¯t answer and just keep running while carrying her. It was painful for him too. Leaving his friend who finally became on better term. But he has to make sure Nimura alive, or else Evan¡¯s struggle to protect them both will be in vain.


    As for Evan, himself, he is fighting like a madman, the armored men wouldn¡¯t dare coming closer to him and feels that they are fighting against a demon. But actually, Evan is reaching his limit. His body can¡¯t hold the exhaustion.


    ¡°So this is the boy who manage to slain my men?¡± an armored man come to him. This armored man wore different armor. It¡¯s painted black and looks scary. The man¡¯s face covered with black helmet and he is holding a white steel sword and a shield.


    ¡°I¡¯m Count Orderich, i shall be your opponent. Everyone stand back!¡± Orderich ordered his men. The armored men obeyed and they are taking steps away from them and form a circle.


    ¡°Your talent is amazing; you can use magic too. Unfortunately, you will have to die on my hand.¡± Orderich said as he raised his sword upwards.


    ¡°For my motherland!¡± he shouted and then he disappeared from Evan¡¯s vision. A sword pierced Evan¡¯s chest from behind. Orderich pulled back his sword and let Evan fell to the ground. He then turned around and walks away.


    Evan lying on the ground with blood coming out from his chest. His eyes are heavy and almost no sign of life.


    ¡®No......¡¯


    He didn¡¯t wish to die right now. He still has a lot of things to do. He can¡¯t die here, he still need to give proper burial to them, to the villagers. He can¡¯t die here; he needs to stay alive for his mother and father. He can¡¯t die......


    At that moment Evan died, in that moment where he revives once again.

 Live his own life

    Slowly those armored men who died raise from the ground. The armored men who still alive startled and got panicked.


    "Sir! They are- uaah!"


    One of them got attacked. Orderich widened his eyes in disbelief. He didn''t believe what he saw, no, he never believes it at all. But, he had to swallow it down and accept the reality.


    Evan who is lying on the ground bitterly smiled and slowly stood. He cleans his clothes and breath for a moment.


    "You- how did you?!"


    Orderich shouted and point his sword towards Evan. He just stands there and blinked to Orderich then giving murderous aura.


    Evan picked the sword on the ground and point it towards Orderich.


    "For everyone and for myself...."


    "Enhance!" Orderich enhanced his body and dashed towards Evan. He is fast and swings his sword to Evan. But it missed the target, Evan crouched and thrust his sword from beneath. The sword passed through the gap of the armor and pierced the neck.


    "Gahh....."


    Evan slowly pulled the sword and swing his sword to the air. The life force from Orderich absorbed by him. Not just his life force but the other armored men who died by the undead, their life forces also absorbed by him.


    Evan went silent and then looking at the dead villagers. He bit his lips.


    "Aaaahh...."


    Evan fell down to his knee and start crying. He crying really hard, under the dark sky without stars and moon.


    "Damn it! Why now?! Why not come before all of this happen!" He smashed his fist into the ground. He regrets it, the power he obtained came late after many people he couldn''t save.


    Evan regained his power. The Undead king''s power, he already lost so much before the power awoke. When the power awoke, his past memories returning to him. No matter how heartless undead he was before. He is right now a human with emotions.


    Having a great power but unable to protect people he loved with it''s just a waste and he wished to die. But he can''t. His mother wished for him to be alive and he will stay alive.


    Evan stopped crying and he slowly stood. Evan looking at the undead, all of the armored men are all dead.


    "Good.... now please make graves for the villagers and clean this village. Maybe some reconstruction?" He said. He wished to have a proper burial for the villagers. Also, the village is wrecked down. He wants to restore them with the help of the undead.


    Evan carrying the dead villagers to one place. But when he brought his father and mother. He cried a lot again.


    After the burial, he created tombstone to remember the villagers. He didn''t remember all of the villagers'' names and so he makes a simple thing.


    "Amongst 87 villagers of Ovuca, 84 died. May the rest in peace."


    After that, he ordered the undead to reconstruct the houses. It took a half day since the undead aren''t tired and they are strong. The houses returned like before. The only thing left is the destroyed farms.


    "Haa... guess I have to start over."


    With the help of undead, he making new farms and took care of them. Afterward, he is looking at the undead.


    "To get my revenge..... hunt and kill your comrades and the one who ordered you."


    Evan said coldly. Even though he is kind, he decided to be cold when the time needs to be. He also gained memories of the undead and know where these armored men came from.


    The armored men leave the village and heading to the forest. Evan sighed and then he sits down on the ground while watching the newly created farms. He smiled a bit and cry again.


    Several days have passed and Evan always working. Now, he isn''t good for nothing. The disturbance in his head disappeared and he could do everything well after few tries.


    "Hm?" Evan stopped cutting the log and looking towards the east horizon where the sun soon rising.


    A flag fluttering. The flag has a blue symbol with a lion face and three stars on each side of the lion. Then medium size troops appear while riding horses.


    Evan walks to the front of the village and waiting for them. In front of them, there is a young man with handsome face, brown hair and hazel eyes. He is wearing an iron armor but not thick and rather light. He is looking at Evan.


    "Are you the villager here?" He asked.


    "Yes." Evan answered normally.


    "Where are the others?"


    "Please follow me." Evan slightly bent his body and then walks away. The young man and men behind him follow Evan after dismounted from their horses.


    They are following Evan to a quite big field where the villagers buried.


    "This is their graveyard." Evan answered with a bitter smile."


    "Good grief...." the young man felt shocked and he walks to the tombstone.


    "Only three.... I only see you, where is the other two?"


    "They ran away, I barely survived by someone''s help."


    "Who?"


    "A necromancer..." Evan bit his lips. He wouldn''t tell that he is the one after all. He will make a fiction person.


    "That necromancer killed those armored men and make them as his minions. He helped me to build the graveyard and repair the houses. I thought I was going to die by his hand, but he is a kind person." Evan smiled when looking at the houses. He praised himself.


    The young man and the other men didn''t believe what they heard. A kind necromancer? The necromancer was pictured as an evil person who raises dead from their graves and kills people. But there is actually a good necromancer?


    "Ahem, I''m sorry for what was happened. We were late and only arrived now."


    "That doesn''t.... no, it matters. If you all come sooner or maybe put a station near the border. They wouldn''t die like this!" Evan shouted. He felt it was the kingdom''s fault too to let a village on the border without protection as the result they got attacked.


    "I''m very sorry." The young man bowed. Evan widened his eyes and sighed. He didn''t wish to be emotional.


    "That''s fine. It''s the past and nothing can be done." Evan sighed once again.


    "I''m Noel Rishawd, I''ve come here to investigate what was happening near the border."


    "Evan, a villager."


    "Evan, did you make the tombstone?"


    "Yes."


    "You can write and arithmetic? Though it simple calculation it could be useful." Noel smiled.


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    "Do you wish to work with me?"


    Evan shocked. He didn''t though he would be offered a job. Is it out of pity or because he values Evan''s abilities?


    Evan looked towards the graves and the houses. If he leaves, no one will treat this place but that doesn''t mean it will be forever.


    "Sir Noel, could you migrate some people to live here? As you see, it will dead village if I leave. The land in here is fertile and you have to set up a camp to just in case it will be attacked again." Evan said.


    "That can be done. I''ll tell my father about it. So, do you agree?"


    Evan shook his head and says "Not till there is truly people migrated here. I''m sorry but I have little faith towards noble."


    "Ah, I can see that. Then, I shall immediately tell my father. It may take a week or so."


    "That would be fine."


    Evan could wait no matter how long it is.


    "In the meantime, since you are agreed with what I said earlier. I''ll give you some books to study. Did you ever used a sword?"


    Evan looking at his hand. He remembered that he killed people with his own hands.


    "Yes, I did. I''m familiar with sword and good at it."


    "Good, then I expect to have a spar next time." Noel then leaves along with his men. Evan didn''t understand why Noel would be so kind.


    Several days later, some soldiers arrived and make a station guards nearby. Evan starts interacting with soldiers and talking with them as the only villager. The soldiers also brought books for Evan as gifts from Noel. Of course, Evan read them all.


    Aside from that, he gained information from his undead. After Alainsten''s camp destroyed. His undead increased to two hundred and now is moving to the capital to kill the king.


    A week passed, some people coming to the village. They are the new villagers. Since the houses are ready and the farm is in progress. They don''t have to work hard too much anymore. Noel also came with few men.


    "Hello, Evan."


    "Hello, Sir Noel. Thank you for your help. This village is becoming lively at least."


    "Yes. Now, did you learn well?"


    "I did, I read all the books."


    Noel smiled in astonishment, he got off from the horse and walks to Evan.


    "Now, shall we have a spar?"


    "Yes?"


    "I did mention, right?We''re going to have spar." Noel said in excitement.


    "Really?" Evan laughing awkwardly, he never thought that Noel would be serious.


    Noel took off his outer clothes and only wear a white shirt. He took two wooden swords from the bag on the horse.


    "Here." He gave one to Evan and then take distance from Evan.


    "It''s simple, we''re going to have physical combat and whoever lost his sword or says surrender first will be the loser."


    Evan slowly nodded. He didn''t wish something like this. Although he is good, he never interested in it.


    ''I guess I have to fake my lost.''


    "Here I come!" Noel dashed at him and swung his sword. Evan blocked it right away and then took distance from Noel.


    The villagers and soldiers slowly coming to watch the spar.


    Noel attacking Evan again, he continuously attacking without halting his attack at all. Evan dodged and block them then took steps away.


    ''Nghh...''


    Evan felt irritated. Somehow inside him, there is an urge forcing him to fight. Every time he clashed with Noel, that urge becoming strong and stop him from trying to faking his lost.


    ''Fine if you wish for it!''


    This time, Evan dashed towards Noel and launch a big swing. It missed and Noel took the chance to attack. However, Evan didn''t dodge the attack and stepping forward.


    Noel is a bit shocked and his attack slightly hit Evan¡¯s body but what he didn''t notice immediately is a sword coming above him.


    The sword stopped near Noel''s head and Evan retracts it.


    "Hahaha... you''re so bold." Noel laughed. He had lost the fight immediately. He never thought that Evan would choose to get hit instead moving away and then launch a final attack.


    "Sir Noel, what''s the purpose of this actually? And also, what''s the job you actually offered to me?" Evan was curious. Why it needs reading and writing, arithmetic, basic knowledge and sword fighting?


    "You''re going to be my bodyguard."


    "Excuse me?" Evan didn''t believe what he heard


    "I''m going to an academy soon. My father said that I''ll be fine alone but if I need, I could bring someone as a bodyguard. But the truth is I feel lonely." Noel sighed.


    "And why me?"


    "Truth to be told..... I''m pitying you, second, I feel that you are the same age as mine and you are easy to talk with."


    So, the pitying about was a right guess. But the second one... it couldn''t possible by looking at Evan''s appearance. He is certainly had an older face and taller than Noel but he is sixteen years old last few days.


    But the work which Noel offer is good.


    "If I''m becoming your bodyguard. Does that mean I''m going to an academy?"


    "Yes, that is why you need basic knowledge, reading, writing, arithmetic and how to fight. What lack is magic? Have you use magic before?"


    ''Yes.'' But Evan shook his head. As a villager, it will be weird if he able to use a magic. It''s better to grow but in fast speed.


    "Then, let''s go back with me tomorrow. We will test your magic capacity and choose magic what you wish to learn."


    Evan nodded. To be honest, he learned all elemental magics. For normal people, when they learned their first magic, their mana will adapt to it and it will hard to change it. Example, if you use fire magic, your mana adapted to fire but if you use water magic afterward, there will be a conflict and the water magic might not be successful. Still, changing mana adapt could be done through a lot of hardship. That is why he needs to choose carefully.


    Evan then returns to his house and preparing for tomorrow depart. He staying in the dining room where he had breakfast, lunch, and dinner together with his family. Now, he is alone without anyone. He bit his lips and let out tears.


    "Feels like yesterday....." he muttered. Everything went so fast. He will remember it to his grave even if he didn''t die.


    "Mom, father.... goodbye. Your son will be going to live his own life." He said with a bitter smile.

 Notice of revival

    Artore kingdom, located in the central of Aproxi land. Artore kingdom is one of the oldest kingdoms that survived for more than 1000 years. It was more than satisfying that it could survive for more than that. As one of the oldest kingdom. Artore is respected and feared. Their army consists strong individuals and always been trained well. The royal family only birth one or two children so there is no fight over the throne. Except if the first and the second children is a girl, they will have the third child till a son is born.


    But the current king outlawed this unwritten rule. He had three princes and four princesses. Royal dispute clearly will happen and people might afraid that the kingdom¡¯s balance will be destroyed. So far, their previous kings are good and wise. Even though they are not master in any subjects, they able to make the kingdom prosperous in their own way.


    The current king is Thanor XXII Gulstrein. He had three wives and seven children. Known as naughty king but smart in economy manipulation. His people always worried about this king.


    But it¡¯s not about this king. It¡¯s about the fourth princess. Clara Gulstrein. Age fifteen years old, her mother is a maid becoming a concubine. Even though she is a princess, she is not living as a princess. But as an apprentice of the royal wizard. Her aptitude for magic is amazing and she also possesses the black flame. A flame that burns anything and never extinguish except by the wielder¡¯s will. She got it after her mother saved a fallen dragon and took care of him till he is able to fly. The dragon reveals that he is the crown prince of the dragon and promise that the daughter of her will inherit black flame as a gratitude.


    Even though black flame is a bless, it also bringing calamity. Assassins attempt to murder Clara or kidnap her. To make sure her safety, she lived inside a tower and only a few allow to meet her. She then became the royal wizard¡¯s apprentice to train her magic and control her black flame.


    Right now, she is inside her bedroom sitting nearby the window and gazing the dark sky without stars and moon. Her face is beautiful and her hair and eyes are fiery red. This isn¡¯t inheritance from her mother or father, it¡¯s because the black flame changed her gene. Her body is considered tall for a girl and still under developing.


    Knock knock


    ¡°Enter.¡± she said softly and a lady enters the room. The lady wears an elegant robe that covers her body line and she wears a hood that covers her face.


    ¡°Not sleeping?¡± the lady asked.


    Clara didn¡¯t turn her body and keep gazing the sky, she replies.


    ¡°Master said black flame can¡¯t be extinguished. But I found that white ice can extinguish it.¡± the lady is none other than her master, the royal wizard.


    ¡°Clara.... Black flame can¡¯t be extinguished but there are several ways you make black flame disappear. Such a dimensional change. But what about white ice? It¡¯s an ice that isn¡¯t supposed to be here.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± finally Clara turned her head towards her master.


    ¡°White ice was created by the Hero Reifu, he is the master of elementals and but mainly use ice magic. He created white magic when he encountered Dragon king. To defeat the black flame, he created a white ice. An ice colored by white, not transparent. The ice isn¡¯t cold but never melted. It only melts once it meets black flame and so black flame will extinguish once meet white ice.¡± her master explained.


    ¡°So.... It¡¯s like weak each other. Is there anyone besides Hero Reifu?¡±


    ¡°After Hero Reifu death, Undead king begins to arise and he also possessed white ice. Not just white ice but also a black ice. An ice that cold and deadly that it will take weak souls. A forbidden ice. After the defeat of Undead king. Till now, there isn¡¯t sight of white ice.¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°Does that mean black flame can¡¯t be defeated?¡±


    ¡°Yes.... There is no one strong enough to face black flame magic except the Dragon king and his bloodline. But Clara.... If there is a person with white ice. Get closer to that person. With both of you together, black flame and white ice shall become the strongest duo.¡± her master chuckled thinking about that. Clara didn¡¯t understand what her master thinking about but she really wanted to see a white ice.


    ¡°So Clara, the reason why I come here-¡±


    ¡°Academy isn¡¯t?¡±


    Her master is silent but then confirm it.


    ¡°Yes, you shall attend Rashburg Academy in neutral zone. You also must bring two bodyguards with you.¡±


    Hearing that, Clara laughed and move to her bed.


    ¡°Is there any other person that I could trust to become my bodyguards?¡± she asked with a smile. In her life, many people tried to assassinate her or kidnap her. She felt the terror and afraid to interact with others except for people she trusts. The reason why she will go to the academy is because of her age and she must face the outside world.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but you have to. Your father will prepare-¡± she stopped and shifted her gaze to the window. Clara frowned upon seeing her master quiet all of sudden.


    ¡°Master?¡±


    ¡°This is bad....¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, master?¡±


    ¡°Undead king...¡±


    ¡ô¡ó¡ó¡ô


    ¡°Undead king has returned, gather all units!¡±


    In the deep forest located to the north. Lies a hidden village of elves. An elf man looks troubled and many other elves gathered and kneeled before him.


    ¡°Elder, did something happened?¡± one of them asked.


    ¡°Undead king has returned, contact the Union and search the Undead king whereabouts!¡±


    ¡°Yes, elder!¡±


    Those people quickly leave and start moving.


    ¡°Lita!¡± the elder called an elf girl. The elf girl stopped and turned towards the elder. She has white hair and green eyes. As expected of an elf, she is beautiful and young.


    ¡°Yes elder?¡± she said.


    ¡°You will refrain from going on the search.¡±


    ¡°What? But-¡±


    ¡°You will go to Rashburg Academy. You have an important mission there.¡±


    ¡°Mission?¡± she asked in curiosity.


    ¡°To make sure the Azure crystal doesn''t fall to the Undead king or his followers.¡±


    ¡°Yes, elder.¡±


    Lita bowed and then leave. The elder then sighed and walks around the village. His name is Calez. Lived for 800 years, even though he never saw or felt the Undead king¡¯s terror. He heard the stories from the other elves when he was a kid. He heard how frightful the Undead king is and must be stopped by any means.


    He took out a pendant he wore in his clothes. A small round pendant with small white ice inside it shining. This is the reason why he could felt the Undead king is returned.


    There are 12 pendants like this. Once, these pendants were a white ice that Dragon king kept but he separated it into 12 pieces so that 12 chosen people able to notice the Undead king arrival. This white ice is special, it¡¯s imbued with Undead king¡¯s power and if another Undead king appears or the late Undead king returned, the white ice will shine and giving a chill.


    ¡°Let¡¯s pray it never happen again...¡± he said, he prays the nightmare winter will never happen.

 New life part 1

    The next day in early morning. Evan and Noel depart to Noel''s house. On their way, they are talking a lot together, but mostly it''s Noel. He explained almost everything about Noguard kingdom''s history.


    Evan received that Alainsten''s king has been killed and his undead exploded after that to clear any evidence.


    Evan gained information about Alainsten kingdom. Their lands aren''t fertile anymore and people looks sad. The cause is unknown.


    Arriving at Noel''s house. It''s actually a big mansion near a castle.


    "My father is Count Rishawd, he is busy with current situation right now."


    "Current situation?" Evan tilted.


    "It''s a secret information but I''ll tell you. There are many sights of undead moving around. Not just in Noguard kingdom but almost at every country."


    Evan shocked. Undead moving? Undead basically won''t move around except they are led by someone. He at least knows that he isn''t at fault for this.


    "I think the necromancer who saved you is one of those fanatics of the Undead king. The rumor says that Undead king has returned of course every country pressed this rumor as false but soon or later it will be revealed to be true."


    "So, the Undead king has returned?"


    "Yep, the Union told every country about this."


    Evan knew about white ice that he made to notice his arrival or the arrival of the new Undead king. But never he expects that there will fanatics around. Yet it sounds mysterious.


    Evan doesn''t wish to become Undead king anymore. He will become a human and live well. Being an Undead long ago was his own will for revenge, but now he didn''t wish it anymore. In fact, he realized that he had massacred countless people to became human once again, that is a sin that never will be forgotten.


    "I live alone with my father. My mother died before giving birth to my sibling." Noel said with a bitter smile.


    "I''m sorry to hear that."


    "It''s fine, I''m telling you this because we''re friends."


    Friends.... now, he wondering how is Kalba''s and Nimura''s lives. Are they doing well?


    Evan follows Noel to inside the mansion and to an office room. He knocked the room.


    "Come in." A hoarse voice without too much power.


    Noel opens the door and both of them entering. What Evan saw is a dead man on the chair. Not real dead man, but that man looks pale and doesn''t have more strength.


    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    "Father.... I told you not get overworked."


    "Tch.... it''s a job. A sudden one! Monsters appeared frequently and I have to ask adventurers'' help to solve this. Damn, just what is happened to this world." Even when this person complained, he is too tired to move around.


    Noel sighed and call a maid. He ordered her to prepare a meal for his father. Then he looks towards Evan.


    "Father, this is Evan. I choose him as my bodyguard."


    "Are you sure you got the right one? He looks mature than you."


    "Yes, he is fifteen years old too. He also defeated me in a spar." Actually, sixteen years old though.


    "Oh? Then, I can make sure your safety in his hand."


    Noel''s father looking at Evan and smiled.


    "I''m Count Braid Rishawd, I''m sorry to greet you with this appearance."


    "No sir, I''m Evan. It''s an honor." Evan slightly bowed.


    "You seem to be a good fellow. I''ll give condolence for what happened to your village."


    "Thank you, sir."


    "Now, I''ll tell you. Noel and you will be going to Rashburg Academy. You will act as his bodyguard, even though I trust Noel with hid abilities, I''m worried."


    "Oh, please father. I''m strong enough." Yet, Noel was ignored.


    "Your payment will be 3 golds and monthly paid till you graduated."


    "Thank you, sir." Evan bowed, 3 golds are satisfying enough for him.


    "Now then, Noel, lead him to his room."


    "Yes, father."


    Noel and Evan left the office and going to Evan''s new room.


    "This place is so lonely you know. If I had a sibling, it would be better." Noel laughed. He is the only child here and his mother already died with his sibling. Evan could only pity him deep in his heart.


    "Well, this your room. We got a month before going to the academy, so you still have time to learn and improving magic."


    "Okay, thank you sir Noel."


    "Hahaha, just call me Noel. We''re friends." Noel laughed, seems like he is lonely after all.


    Once entering the room. He put his bag near the bed. Evan throws himself to the bed and relaxing his body.


    He is tired due to the journey coming here. This is the first time for him to travel far away. He begins to close his eyes and sleeping.

 New life part 2

    "Evan! Why didn''t you save us?!"


    "Evan! Why did you alive?!"


    "Evan! You supposed to be dead!"


    "You''re a monster!"


    "Undead!"


    "Sinners!"


    Evan woke up with cold sweat around his body. Another nightmare, this time the villagers are the one who haunted him. There is no single time to have peaceful sleep.


    Looking through the window, it''s already night. Evan walks to the door and opens it.


    "Ah-"


    A girl shocked, she was standing in front of the door wearing a maid outfit.


    "Ah umm.... sir Evan, young master and master wished you to join them for dinner." Said the maid after calming herself. She has a normal appearance, a bit older than Evan. Her hair is brown just like her eyes.


    "Okay, but I''m just a commoner so don''t add ''sir''. My name is Evan, sir Noel''s bodyguard. Nice to meet you." Evan introduced himself with a smile. The maid blushed and looks away.


    "I''m Ariana, a maid. Nice to meet you too." She smiled.


    "Please follow me to the dining room." She said. Evan nodded and follows her from behind. He is feeling nervous to have dinner with Noel and his father. Aside with someone he just recently knows, he is having dinner with nobles. He needs to use noble''s table manner but since this is his first time for a long time, it''s fine to act like a commoner.


    "I''ve brought Evan." The maid said once they arrived at the dining room.


    "Come sit with us." Noel''s father said. He still looks very tired.


    Evan went to the table and sit beside Noel. The table is long and fits for fifteen people. But only three people here. The loneliness is clear around here.


    "Don''t be nervous Evan. Just eat like you what you did every day." Noel patted his back.


    "That''s right Evan. We''re not those hateful noble." Braid laughed really hard but then coughed. The dishes then coming with the maid brought them.


    "........." Evan never ate this luxury before. A rice with vegetable soup. The soup is filled with mixed vegetables. Evan glanced at Noel and Count Braid. They use the spoon to split the rice and take just enough then put it into the soup then eat it with the vegetables. Why don''t you just put all the rice in the soup?


    Evan imitating how Noel eating, he is eating quite slow and careful.


    "Hahaha. I told you, Evan, you don''t have to be that nervous!" Noel laughed. He noticed that Evan imitating him while eating which is giving him a good laugh.


    "Anyway, after this. Let''s go to the library. We''re going to check your mana capacity."


    Evan nodded and eat his food. After dinner, Braid returned his office and Evan follows Noel to the library.


    "This is mana measure. Touch it." Noel showing a white thick ball. Evan touched the ball without hesitation and slowly the ball reacting by showing a bright light. The light becoming brighter till illuminated the library.


    "Wow, you''re must be really blessed." Noel rubbing his eyes because of the light. Evan didn''t expect this either. He knew he had great mana capacity but seems like it got stronger than what he thought.


    "Alright, what magic do you wish to learn. Just for information, I''m using fire. I could teach you fire if you choose fire, but it''s up to you." Yet, his eyes showing an expectation for Evan to choose fire too.


    "I choose ice."


    "Already? Don''t need to time to think?"


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "Yes."


    "Really?"


    "Yes."


    "Not even considering fire?" Noel almost looks like a puppy begging to be picked.


    "Uhh.... yes." Yet, Evan is resolute to his own decision which makes Noel looks sad.


    "Well.... I guess I couldn''t teach you then. Do you wish to have a teacher for a magic lesson?" He asked while still sad.


    "No need, I''ll learn it by myself."


    Noel blinked three times.


    "Really? But don''t push yourself too hard. If you get a hard time, just tell me." Noel said.


    "Okay, thank you, Noel." Evan bowed.


    "Hahaha, no worries. I''ll be back with the book. Just wait here." Noel walks somewhere around the library.


    Ice magic is his specialty amongst the others. His past title isn''t an empty title at all.


    "Here is the books." Noel gives Evan the books. Ice magic beginner, Ice magic amateur, and Ice magic Expert. To be the truth, he just needs Ice magic beginner book if needed. It''s because the amateur and expert ice magics coming from the beginner. But people in this world tend to stick with chants and didn''t improve their magic ability by imagining the process of magic.


    "Thank you, Noel, I''ll be leaving first."


    "Sure...."


    Evan went back to his room and put the books on the table. Evan straightens his body and extend his hand to the front then gathering his mana.


    "Ice shard." He muttered. A cold sensation gathered on Evan''s hand then formed an ice shard.


    "Sword." The ice shard turned into a sword shape. Just by imagining things with detail, the magic will be deployed quicker.


    "Shatter." The sword ice shattered and then disappear. Even after 1000 years, his magic still good.


    "Now then.... white ice." A white ice formed with ball shape. Evan, hold it and channeling his mana through it. The white ice giving chilling sensation and shine.


    Evan using the white ice to track the other white ice.


    "Hm? Twelve?"


    There are twelve signals coming from different places. Four of them are together, two are moving to the same destination while two again moving somewhere else.


    But Evan felt something weird. The white ice giving another signal.


    "Undead king...." he muttered. He was an Undead king but in the human flesh. He was expecting for the white ice to show the signal of the Undead king in his location but it''s on a different place.


    "Another Undead king. So, I am disqualified as an Undead king?" Evan somewhat rather happy. Becoming human makes him disqualified as an Undead king and he won''t be hunted down anymore. He could live like a human and won''t worry about underworld things.


    But Evan is curious who is the new Undead king. Will this king bring another terror or not, is the king stronger than him or not? He afraid if the new Undead king will do the same thing he did 1000 years ago. If the new Undead king did that, Evan doesn''t have a choice but to kill this new king. If not, his life and the others will be threatened. Or maybe there is another choice?


    "They wouldn''t know the new Undead king''s place. Are they looking for him right now?"


    The other white ice which splits into twelve couldn''t track Undead king''s whereabouts, it''s just giving a notice of revival or return.


    The white ice disappears and he lying down on the bed. This time, he hoped there won''t be a nightmare again.

 New life part 3

    The next day. Evan starts his early morning exercise. Starting for warming up, he then going for a full sprint. After sprinting twenty times shuttle run, he rested for a moment and start a push-up and then squat jump.


    "Haa...." Evan sits on the ground with full sweats. His clothes are wet because of the sweats.


    "You really working hard." A gentle voice. It was Ariana who brings a towel and gives it to Evan.


    "Thank you." Evan took the towel and wipe his face.


    "You''re more early than the young master," Ariana said while sitting down beside Evan.


    "Noel?"


    "Yes, he usually went exercising early but you are earlier."


    "I''m not this early before. I just had a nightmare, so I went exercise right away." Evan smiled. He got another nightmare again, a nightmare where countless people trying to grab him to live.


    "What kind of nightmare?" Ariana asked after saw Evan looks pale.


    "Well.... it''s a regret nightmare. It wouldn''t be pleasant to talk about."


    "Alright, I won''t push you." She said while staring at Evan.


    "What?" Evan felt awkward when she is staring at him.


    "Nothing. It''s just.... you''re kind of lonely."


    Evan became quiet. He is certainly lonely. Lonely because losing his parents and the villagers. Even though he got Noel as his friend, it still feels lonely.


    "My mother said, every people in this world is alone and that is why they seek others to not be alone. But there is always people who feel alone even amongst the crowd. At first, I don''t get it. But now I understand, that person doesn''t have someone who can understand him, someone who will share his grieve and burden." She said with a faint smile.


    "Are you referring to me?" Evan tilted his head and makes Ariana laughing.


    "Not really. Your loneliness is because of something else? Your eyes showing......... the longing for the lost."


    Evan shut his lips. Ariana really hit the target. Evan won''t object that at least he glad that someone knows his loneliness, only know.


    "Then.... what about you?" Evan asked.


    "Your eyes also the same." He added.


    Ariana smiled and looks to the sky.


    "I am.... I longing for the lost. Living like this just to wait for him but there is unexpected turn you know. There was an impostor of him, so I might though..... it wouldn''t be pleasant to tell about it." She laughed and then stood.


    "I''ll get back to work." She said and walks away. Evan looking at her before she went inside the mansion. He thought she feels familiar but he shook his head right away.


    "Ah, Evan?" Noel coming towards him with training outfit.


    "Morning Noel."


    "Morning Evan, did you exercise?"


    "Yes, I''m resting now."


    "That''s too bad." Noel sighed. "I want to exercise with you. Anyway, we''re going to have spar again today." He starts warming up.


    "Okay."


    Evan watching Noel doing exercise, he isn''t hardcore like Evan. He is just doing a run around the mansion and then pushes up, squat jump, sit up and etc.


    After an hour, Noel resting beside Evan.


    "Phew, that''s was good." He said happily. "Did you know, you need at least good physical body and stamina to hold on without sleeping for one or two days to enter Rashburg Academy."


    "Really? Why so harsh?"


    "Rashburg Academy considered top academy, the scores to enroll is scary for physical and magic."


    "The benefit?"


    "If you become the best twenty, you might become one of Union master''s disciples or if you best 100 you might get many attentions. Of course, high nobles would ignore that, they rather rule their lands." Noel said.


    "So it''s beneficial for lower nobles or commoners." Evan slowly nodded.


    "That''s right, but the problem is the scores to enroll. Higher nobles surely can hire the best teacher and good books, they also studied ever since kid while the commoner has great disadvantage."


    "So, what''s the bet for two of us to enter there?" Evan couldn''t help asked.


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    "Well, I''m confident about myself, so it will be 60%? But you.... your physical is good while magic...." Noel scratched his head. He never saw Evan casting magic after all, even though he knew that Evan has good mana capacity. The progress of learning for each people is different.


    "Don''t worry. I''ll show you my magic next week." Evan smiled. Evan could evaluate himself already, even if he not obtained full power of undead, he surely 100% passed. He might be overconfident but that is fine if he could show his might.


    "How many students accepted each year?"


    "Around 300, the people who try their lucks their almost from every country."


    "Do dragon count?"


    "What? Dragon wouldn''t interfere our business." Noel laughed.


    ''So it''s not changed.'' In the past, the dragon became the ruler of the sky and enemy of mankind. But since the Dragon king, Rivast took over. They became not attracted towards lower being and staying at Dragon''s land. If the dragon not interferes, then either Rivast still rules or his successor is same like him. After all, no all dragons are kind.


    "Well, I got enough rest. Shall we spar?"


    "Sure."


    Noel called the maid to bring two wooden swords. After they got their own swords. Both of them facing each other.


    "Same rules?" Evan asked.


    "Yup."


    After Noel answered, both of them become quiet and staring each other. Noel didn''t rush like before since he knew that Evan is strong.


    Few minutes passed, none of them moving. It''s a battle of patience and sure is tiring down the concentration because they have to be alert every second. Lose concentration even a second results fatal.


    Evan suddenly dashed. He lost the battle of patience but that what was he wanted. Noel reacted towards Evan and swings his sword, but it missed the target. Evan is out of his reach. The sudden movement from Evan caused Noel to jolted and attack. Evan wouldn''t waste this opportunity and dashed again to him. He lowering his body and raise a thrust from below directing towards Noel''s head.


    "Guh..." Noel manages to sway his head and then retreated. Being closer to Evan is dangerous.


    Noel tried stabilizing himself but Evan didn''t give time to do so. He launched a thrust to Noel''s stomach. Noel dodged to the left but Evan''s sword follows him and he blocked it right away and tried to counter attack before Evan already moved away from Noel.


    ''Damn, Evan is different.'' Noel felt the fight is more intense than before. Evan becoming more aggressive and his attack is like a snake.


    Just after thinking about it, Evan ran to him and launched a thrust. Noel tried to block it but Evan''s sword retracted and the launched again. Unable to block the second time, Noel twists his head away to dodge the attack and launch an attack from below.


    Evan didn''t move and then Noel remembered that Evan didn''t afraid to get hit just to have a hit. Sadly, his thought was wrong. When hesitated to hit Evan, and looking at Evan''s sword. Evan took steps away and pulled back his sword to do another slash from above.


    Noel made a mistake if Evan dare to get hit again to achieved the win. In a fight, there is always uncertainty.


    Evan''s sword stopped near Noel''s face and it retracted afterward.


    Noel sighed and stood with a smile.


    "You''re really amazing. Battle of patience to made me too focused and caused a mistake. Then making me remembered what you did last time which turned to be false this time." Noel sighed once again.


    "I''d never expected you to hesitate back then. You do really thinking a lot when fighting." Evan smiled and give the sword to Noel.


    "Well, I''d never thought you will be that much different. But your fighting style is full of uncertainty. I wonder how will happen if we fought with magic." Noel laughed and Evan laughed too. If he able to use magic, then he won''t move around unless necessary. He was mage before, using a sword or other martial arts they are just a cover.


    After that, Evan and Noel took a bath and then have breakfast. The rest of time he spent by reading books in the library.

 Instant cast papers

    The next day after exercise, Noel invited Evan to go to the town.


    "We''re going to buy many things for preparation."


    "What preparation?" Evan asked.


    "You know, weapons, armors, etc. We need them. Also, I can''t let my bodyguard go unprepared." Noel laughed.


    "Oh, okay." Evan didn''t really interest about it. He already had dimensional storage which is stored all of his belongings. But it''s still unusable till he gets a quarter of his power.


    Both of them riding horses and heading to the Dormu town. Noel looking at Evan whom riding the horse.


    "Now that I think about it. You''re good at riding." Noel said.


    "Huh? Yeah...."


    Noel never interacted with animals before he awoken his power. He finally able to suppress his undead aura which is always leaking ever since he was born as human. Even though he is a human, the power of undead is leaking out back then, but now there is nothing to be afraid of.


    "Right, Evan, why don''t we stay overnight at the town and have some fun?"


    "Some fun?"


    "Yes! Night party! You know that, even though we still underage, it''s fine. We might get girls." Noel smiled brightly.


    "You''re a son of the count, isn''t that going to be bad?"


    "Hush, it''s going to worst after becoming the count. I might become like my father." He laughed. Looking at his skinny father giving him bad impression as a count. At least, he will have fun before becoming a count.


    Evan shifted his gaze from Noel towards a large size army.


    "Noel, what''s happening there?" He asked. Noel looking at the army too and explains.


    "The news about your village got attacked by Alainstein already firing up the nobles in this country. Our king also agreed to start a war against Alainstein because they provoked first. Other countries won''t object this though since Alainstein is the one at fault."


    "Oh right, few days ago, the news about the death of Alainstein''s king has spread. This makes Alainstein in critical state. The reason of the dead because troops of Alainstein rebelled and killed the king, the queen, and princes during the process."


    The rebelled troops must be Evan''s armored undead and when Evan looking through the memories again. The queen and the princes are dead too. The news sure spread fast.


    "Who going to take the throne?" Evan asked.


    "The princesses perhaps? But the princesses have never been prepared for the throne so it''s really chaos there." Noel said.


    According to the memories once again, there are three princesses. Two legitimates and one is illegitimate. The two are quite spoiled while the illegitimate quite stern but her power and fame isn''t that good. Not much information about her either.


    Arriving at the town, they put the horses to the horse''s keeper and take a walk around the town.


    "It''s lively isn''t?" Noel asked with a smile. The town is lively with people. Evan couldn''t help but nodded and look around.


    "The first place will be this one." Noel pointed at Jackey''s arsenal store. Once they enter it, the store is quite large and people looking around. Behind the desk where people lined up, there are two people, a man with skinny body and innocent face and a beautiful woman which attracting unwanted things.


    "We''ll wait till no one around. For meanwhile, look around." Noel looks like have a plan and Evan didn''t think much about it.


    Evan looking at the weapons and armors. Most of them are made with good quality with good price too. While the best quality is expensive just like he thought. But, looking at them is like sightseeing only. Evan didn''t attracted by them at all.


    "Evan, let''s go." Noel said once the people already gone. Evan and Noel went to the desk.


    "Hello sir Noel, you bring someone." The woman smiled and looking at Evan.


    "Hello, Mrs. Claria and Mr. Tom. This is my friend and as well a bodyguard. We would like to browse the high rate of the lowest rate."


    "What?" Evan unconsciously said that. But the woman and the man smiled.


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    "Please come this way," Claria said and guide them to the back of the store. They went to the basement and it''s filled with many unique weapons and armors.


    "Choose Evan." Noel said.


    Evan looking around and felt these weapons and armors are made with magic too.


    "Mrs. Claria, all these things have magic." He said.


    "Yes, they are magic items. Only our trusted people know about this." She answered. Magic items weren''t rare thing but it''s expensive. But the magic items in this place is best quality. Of course, Evan already seen better than them.


    But Evan''s eyes locked to piled papers with a strange yet familiar symbol on them.


    "Mrs. Claria. What are these papers?"


    "They are instant cast magic. By using the paper, you could cast a magic which is stored inside the paper."


    "Who made them?" A bit of anger came out.


    "That is classified."


    Evan clicked his tongue. He almost got angry. These papers, he knew them clearly. He knew the one who made them, he asked because he wanted to be sure.


    "Are these papers sold only in this place?"


    "No, several places sold these papers too but not all stores have them."


    There is an organization who made this. This paper was a breakthrough to become stronger in instant. A person who owned these papers become strong but the papers one use only and once all of them used up, that person surely become vulnerable. Originally the paper used to help the people fought against dark army when they have shortage of power. The paper allows a mage who use water to be able to use fire magic once without using mana. It even allows people with no experience use it. The process of making this paper is by using strange symbol which is poured by mana when created and then imbued with the chant of the spell. The paper only give half of the real power of the spell but it''s already good enough considering it''s an instant power.


    People intend to use this for good thing but there always be bad ones. They found new way creating the paper. Through sacrifice, the power of paper doubled and could be used more than twice. They didn''t stop there, they even hunt people with rare power to be a sacrifice for their own gain.


    ''I should have destroyed them long ago.'' Evan bit his lips. He should use all his chance to wipe them out when he was an undead.


    "What''s wrong Evan?" Noel asked with worry.


    "No, it''s nothing. Anyway, I''ll choose this one." Evan took a one edge sword with a slight curve and very light. It has five different small crystal on the blade.


    "Anything else?"


    "Then....."


    Evan picked two different armguards. The right armguard is a brown color and the left is black color. The black armguard has some kind of mechanism on the upper part and below part.


    "That sword is a sword made by the oldest blacksmith, Gyana. He said that sword is a failure since there is no one able to utilize the power."


    Evan looking at the sword. The sword which is resemble a katana giving a chilling aura. The five crystals are, red, blue, brown, yellow, and faint green. Representing five elements and it''s true that no one able to utilize the power of it.


    "As for the brown armguard. It increases the owner''s strength and very durable. While the black armguard able to create a round shield and the below part could launch a hidden blade."


    "I''ll take them." Evan said.


    "Evan, are you sure about the sword?" Noel asked.


    "I am, you''ll see the power in near future." He smiled. Noel didn''t understand it really well but he will wait for it.


    "Also Mrs. Claria, I would like to buy-"


    Noel listed what he wanted. A sword, chain mail, leg guards, armguards, and breastplate. He is protecting himself really well. He also brought two rings which are dimensional storages for Evan and himself.


    The prices are very expensive. But Noel only smiled and gave the money. Either he is smiled because he is broke or he still has a lot of money.


    Evan stored his items to the ring and then two of them left the store.

 Oreily Novister part 1

    "Now then, want to have some fun?" Noel grinned towards Evan. He could only sigh looking at Noel and follows him somewhere. to a bar in an inn to be exact. Both od ordering a drink fitting their age.


    "You Evan, I''ve been thinking- no never mind." Noel laughed. Evan frowned but then shook his head.


    "Anyway, with your appearance. Girls surely fall for you?" Noel said with big smile.


    "Really?"


    "You....." Noel looks in disbelief.


    "Are you not even recognize your own handsome face?"


    "Uh.... Noel, if you said it like that. It''s feels awful."


    "Sorry, but it''s the truth. Are you just thick or already get used with your face? Don''t tell me you already slept with many girls."


    "What? I''m still virgin! And why is everyone calling me thick." Evan sneered. He dislikes being called ''thick'' but that word reminds of good and bad memories too.


    "A virgin eh? You said it out loud too." Noel laughed.


    Evan drink the milk he ordered and trying to forget the embarrassment.


    "Say, Evan, why did you only brought three things?"


    "Because i only need them. The sword is good and i think i can show the true might of it. The armguards are also excellent too."


    "But you''re lacking protection."


    "As long as your enemy don''t hit you. It will be fine."


    Evan is speed oriented, he overwhelmed his opponent with speed rather with brute force.


    "You''re saying as if you won''t get hit." Noel took a gulp on his drink.


    "Yes, but it''s not definite. There might be someone that able to hit me."


    "Right.... above the sky there is another sky." Noel smiled.


    Evan agreed with that. There is no mortal and not mortal beings which is perfect. They must have a flaw and Evan is like that. Even though he was an undead before, he had a flaw. That is his human''s body and a heart for emotion. Then, as a human. Evan has a weak heart and a body that could bleed. But in exchange, he could feel the emotions of living.


    "Enough about that. Did you see that girl?" Noel pointed towards a girl sit down not far from them.


    The girl has black hair with blue eyes. She wore a brown robe that covered her body but her hands which covered by steel gloves are visible. A sign of sword also could be seen behind her robe. She is certainly not normal girl.


    "She is quite beauty, right? But she is giving unapproachable aura." Noel whispered.


    "So?"


    "A girl like her is hard to conquer but it''s challenging and could be prove to be lovely."


    "Do you like a girl like her?" Evan asked with an eyebrow raised.


    "Not really. I''m bad with that kind of girl. Anyway, why don''t you go to her?"


    "Noel.... she isn''t normal girl you know that?"


    "I know. But why don''t you just get a handshake or something like that?"


    Evan sighed, he does not wish to interact with girl just to introduce himself and then never met again. If is maintaining long friendship, then it''s fine but....


    "Come on, you can do it." Noel urged him.


    "No, I won''t."


    "What?" Noel looks disappointed.


    "At least go greet her. Who might though that she is a damsel in distress?"


    "Then why don''t you do it. A noble should fit category for the knight who save the damsel." Evan replied.


    "No no no, I''m not a knight. Besides, being a knight doesn''t mean to be noble by birth or something like that. It''s need to have a brave and noble heart." Noel smiled.


    Then, Evan who has a guilty and lonely heart wouldn''t fit that category.


    "Excuse me." Noel called the owner.


    "Please let us pay what that girl ordered and say it that this man is the one who paid it all."


    "What?" Evan shocked. Looking at his face, Noel couldn''t help but laughing happily. The owner only nodded and then walks to the girl with what she ordered.


    The owner spoke to the girl and glanced at Evan. The girl also glanced at Evan but then looking at what she ordered.


    "Here, some money and good luck." Noel grinned and patted Evan''s back then leave. Evan was about to shout but keep quiet.


    Now he is alone. He often glanced at the girl and wish to leave but he doesn¡¯t feel good about it.


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    "Hello."


    "Uwah!"


    Evan got shocked and looking at the girl on her left. The black-haired girl which wore a brown robe. Her blue eyes just like sapphire.


    "That is funny reaction." She giggled.


    "I thought you would be a playboy? But seem like you''re not or you just act?"


    "N-no, the one who paid the bill was my friend."


    "Oh? Are you backing off because you''re shy? A man mustn¡¯t backing off you know." She said the last sentence very slow. Evan gulped, this girl, back then she had an unapproachable aura but now it''s different. Is she teasing Evan?


    Evan calmed himself and sit normally.


    "Wow, you calmed down quite fast. You must be brave man to invite a girl like me." She said with bit of surprise.


    "No, it was my friend. He set me up."


    "Blaming your friend? It''s useless."


    "Okay then." He sighed. He wondering if Noel is laughing right now. Somehow, he wants to punch him.


    "I''m Evan, you?"


    "Oreily Novister, it''s quite nice to meet you playboy young man." She said with seducing tone.


    "I''m not a playboy, forget that. Since we''re talking. Let''s talk something else. You don''t live, here right?" Evan said.


    "Yes, I''m a traveler. Do you live here?"


    "No, I left my village and became a bodyguard."


    "Bodyguard?" She looks bit disbelief.


    "Your appearance doesn''t suit it at all. I admit you have quite a muscle. But...."


    "Forget that. You''re not ordinary traveler, right? A girl traveling armed with weapon and armor."


    "Right, I''m not ordinary one. Isn''t it a surprise that we are open like this? You and i are strangers and we''re talking like this. Perhaps we are entwined by fate?" She giggled.


    "Maybe. Fate allows people to meet new people after all. Either it''s short or long term."


    "That is right. What do you think about our fate? Will it be short or long? Will we meet again in the future?"


    Evan looking at her eyes. Eyes that filled with dark history. She isn''t innocent girl. Evan hoped that they would meet again, but still in friendly terms. Fate is unexpected, a friend can become an enemy in instant just because of fate.


    "Who knows? I''m not a clairvoyant."


    "Hahaha, that is right. But i believe we shall meet again. Tell me, do you interested in an unapproachable girl like me?"


    "Aren''t you the one who approach me?"


    "It''s because you didn''t make a move before, so I approached you first."


    It''s not Evan''s will to meet her and that is why he don''t want to approach her back them.


    "No, I''m not interested."


    "Why?" She frowned but also looks curious.


    "I already had someone."


    "Really? But your eyes-"


    "Showing of loneliness?" Evan laughed. He is indeed too predictable. He already had someone he loves back then. But she already long gone and that also one of the reason he became an undead. Being an undead, he couldn''t revive his loved one because he couldn''t love her that way.


    "How old are you?" She asked.


    "Sixteen, why?"


    "So young! But your face is quite old. Well, that''s too bad. If you around eighteen, i might accompany you for a while. But if you become eighteen years old, you might become more handsome."


    "Really...."


    "You don''t seem to please by it?"


    "Well, handsome face or not. As long as the heart is rotten, the other parts will be rotten." Evan said with smile.


    Oreily caught in surprise, she unconsciously touched her chest and smiled then stood.


    "Evan. If you go to Carbiz kingdom, go to the capital and call the royal court with ''When the moon descends, the sun shall ascend''."


    "What?"


    "Just do it when you go to Carbiz kingdom. If you do that, you will become a special guest in my name."


    "So you are an important person. The princess who ran away?" Evan chuckled with Oreily.


    "Good joke, but I''m not a princess. If you want to know. Go find my name, you surely will now." She winked and then walks away.


    "Thank you Evan! It''s a good talk with you. You''re right, as long as the heart isn''t rotten." She said before leaving the inn.


    Evan smiled and then staring down and sighed.

 Oreily Novister part 2

    "Good job Evan! That girl looks bright after talking to you!" Noel patted his back.


    "Yeah.... hey Noel."


    "Yeah?"


    "Do you know Oreily Novister?" Evan asked as he lifted his head. When he said that, Noel''s face is stiffened and there is a bewilderment in his eyes.


    "Evan come with me!" Noel pulled Evan right away out from the inn and then he looks around. Noel saw Oreily from far away and running towards her.


    She went to the small alley and Noel and Evan follows her there till they are deep enough.


    Noel and Evan saw Oreily stood alone while facing them with a smile.


    "Evan, seems like fate allows us to meet once again." She said.


    Noel frowned and says in an angry tone.


    "Oreily Novister! What''s your business to step your feet to this kingdom once again?!"


    "Oh my, Evan, your friend is really angry at me." She said in teasing tone.


    "Answer me Oreily! You traitor of Noguard and the Wind pillar of Carbiz kingdom!" Noel shouted.


    "Traitor?" Oreily changed her tone to a serious one.


    "Who are you to dare to label me as a traitor?"


    "I''m Noel Rishawd! You are a traitor who killed the prince and stole the sigil!"


    "Pft! On what basis? Look, our country doesn''t even go to a war? So why? It''s because there is no proof that I killed the prince and stole the sigil." Oreily laughed.


    "Shut up, I''ll catch you here." Noel took out his sword from the ring and about to dash her before a gush of wind blowing at them.


    Oreily''s eyes become serious and staring at Noel with killing intent. Evan took out his sword and step ahead towards Noel and slashed the air.


    Oreily is bit surprised.


    "You cut the wind? Evan, please stand back. I don''t want to kill you." Oreily said.


    "Unfortunately Oreily, I''m his bodyguard." Evan said with a smile.


    Oreily sighed and took out her sword. A blue runic sword.


    "I see.... then, I''ll try my best not to kill you." Oreily swings her sword towards Evan. The sword got splits into seven parts and become like a whip.


    Evan blocked Oreily''s sword but her sword wrapped Evan''s sword and trying to pull it. However, Evan himself rushed towards Oreily.


    "Amazing speed." Oreily said with a bright smile. She retracted her sword and blocked the incoming attack from Evan.


    "Evan, you fail as a bodyguard." She said as she directed her eyes to Noel.


    "You think so?" Evan said calmly.


    "I am."


    A burst of wind heading towards Noel but he didn''t move right away. Instead, he already finished chant a spell.


    "Come, fire wall!" The fire rose in front of Noel and blocked the wind. The wind and fire clashed each other and created a fire tornado for a moment.


    "He did well." Oreily said with displease. She pushed Evan away and then cast another wind blow which is pushed Evan away.


    "I suppose, I''ll show you more."


    Her long black hair slowly floating and her once blue eyes turned into faint green and her body surrounded by the wind.


    She dashed towards Evan. Her speed is faster than anyone he ever saw. Evan reacted quite late and was blown away by her kick.


    "Eva- gugh!" Noel got a slash on his chest but it wasn''t a deep wound.


    "Die." Oreily said as she lifts her sword.


    The moment when her sword fell. An ice coming out from the ground with a shape of spear almost hit Oreily if she didn''t dodge right away.


    "Evan? You used magic?" Oreily looks happy.


    "I''m sorry Noel, but.... ice cube!"


    The ice coming out near Noel and surrounded him. Noel got shocked and tried to melt the ice but the temperature suddenly dropped and the fire weakened.


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    "Oh, so you locked your friend. That ice looks sturdy." Oreily used her wind magic to made a cut on the ice cube.


    "Oreily, let us stop." Evan said as he put down his sword.


    "Why? This is just getting interesting." She smiled brightly and wind surrounded her body once again. Evan sighed, there is really no way to end this by words only.


    "In that case." Evan raised his sword and hold it with his both hands and widen his legs.


    "I''ll finish this right away." Evan said with determination. He knew he couldn''t win against Oreily''s speed. He needs to bet everything with his next magic and attack.


    "Oh, really? Then, let''s see." Oreily floats from the ground and the wind blowing towards Evan. His face got a cut, his clothes almost tattered by the sharp wind. Yet, he didn''t move and just keep waiting.


    Oreily dashed at him with high speed along with the sharp wind, however-


    "Absolute freeze." Evan muttered and in instant, his surrounding got covered by ice and Oreily stopped before she reached Evan. The sharp wind disappeared and blowing just like normal wind blow.


    "Ughh...."


    Evan groaned. His body is bleeding and his mana almost used up. Absolute freeze cost more mana than raising the dead.


    Evan walks to Oreily and touches her face. She got froze but when Evan touched her, she fell to the ground and lost her consciousness. Evan grabbed her and put her on the ground.


    "Good, she is still alive." Evan confirmed that she is not entirely frozen. Even though her temperature is low, Evan absorbed all the cold in her body and slowly raise her temperature.


    Evan''s body also healed and no wounds anymore can be seen. He shifted his gaze towards the ice cube and made it disappear. He saw Noel lying on the ground with his hand creating a fire. But the fire wasn''t enough to warm himself.


    "He is unconscious too." Evan muttered. But this is the best, with both of them lost their consciousness. They wouldn''t have to fight anymore.


    Evan didn''t want to hurt Oreily since he never holds a grudge against her. Whenever she is a traitor or not, Evan isn''t related to it.


    "Ugh...."


    Oreily was the one who woke up first. Her body still stiff and still has cold sensation.


    "Oreily, you woke up." Evan greeted her. Oreily rubbing her eyes and then staring at Evan with an open mouth.


    "Oh man.... you''re just becoming wilder, aren''t you?" She mentioned at Evan¡¯s tattered clothes.


    "Joking at times like this?"


    "Well, you defeated me. That was shocking. I''d never thought I was defeated by you. Seem like it was a fate after all." She smiled and then she reached out her hand to Evan. Even though she reached nothing, she pulled her hand back and suddenly Evan got pushed and get closer to her.


    Oreily hugged Evan and whispers.


    "I would like to become your woman."


    Evan widened his eyes when heard this. Is she sane?


    "Sorry, but I already had one."


    "Can''t you just move on?"


    "No.... not now." Evan pushed Oreily away. She is showing a bright smile than before. As expected, she is a different person and maybe dangerous.


    "Oreily, I suggest you leave now."


    "I intend to do so. My body is quite weak now." She slowly stood with help from Evan.


    "I want to ask, why didn''t you finish me off or caught me?" Oreily asked.


    "If I got killed or caught. You will get a reward."


    Evan shook his head and smiled.


    "I don''t have grudge against you and I''m not interested in the reward."


    "Interesting. You''re indeed a man worthy of my attention. See you again Evan." Oreily said before her body covered by rough wind and then disappear.


    Evan sighed and then waiting for Noel to wake up.


    "It is really a tiring day." He muttered while looking at the sky.

 Certain meeting in Carbiz kingdom

    Carbiz kingdom, exalted hall.


    A huge round table where seven people sat down. Each one of them giving superior aura.


    A man in his forty about to speaks.


    "Regarding about Undead king, is there any possibility that he is at the east land?"


    This man has a calm face and eyes that already saw countless dead, yet, his hands never stained by those dead.


    A man with iron mask shaped of wolf then speaks.


    "Prime minister Avars. The Wind pillar, Oreily Novister has been sent there to investigate it. We just need a confirmation."


    "Oreily? That girl is a traitor of her kingdom. We can''t trust her!" The prime minister, Avars raised his tone.


    The man in his fifty with a crown is placed on his head speaks.


    "Don''t say such a thing Avars. She already chose to abandon her father''s motherland and come to us. Beside that, she is already giving us many merits.


    "Still, your majesty-"


    "Enough, we''re talking about the Undead king. Not her." The king pressed.


    "Yes, i''m sorry." Avars bowed and then keep quiet.


    The king shifted his eyes towards a woman who sits with eyes closed. She has a beautifully braided on the left white hair and matching to her white face.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Karia, the pendant will shine more brightly if is getting closer to the Undead king, right?" The king spoke.


    "Yes, your majesty. Oreily brought to pendant and searching the Undead king. If she found him, she will send a message." She said with eyes still closed. She is Karia Gelzen, the White pillar.


    "Ah-"


    "What''s wrong Karia?"


    "Oreily just sent a message. It''s not about an Undead king. She was lost against someone."


    Everyone in there stiffened and become serious.


    "How is that possible?" The man in wolf mask asked.


    "Where she is now?" Avars asked.


    "Noguard kingdom."


    "Then, can we assume that she was defeated by Noguard? Did they finally found strong people?"


    "No.... he isn''t directly affiliated with Noguard." Karia replied.


    "Then who? Oreily is second strong amongst five pillars. She can''t be defeated that easily." The man with young baby face and neat brown hair said it.


    "Aside that, why did she fought? Did something happen?" The king said.


    "She said that one of Noguard''s noble was found her and chasing her. Upon trying to eliminate this noble. That man stopped her with ice magic." Karia said.


    "Ice magic? Now that''s bringing something uneasy isn''t?" The man with big body and has relaxed face laughed.


    "Rido, did you know someone with ice magic to be strong enough against one of pillar?" The wolf mask asked the big man.


    "Aside the Ice princess from the Teggad kingdom, i don''t know anyone else." Rido lifted his shoulders in respond. Rido, the Destructor pillar.


    "She couldn''t be met the Ice princess, right?"


    "No, the Ice princess is going to Rashburg Academy to keep safe the Azure crystal. Besides, the one who defeat Oreily is a man."


    "Then who is this man?"


    Everyone feels that the man Oreily mentioned is dangerously strong. Five pillars of Carbiz kingdom basically represents the five high powers of Carbiz kingdom. Not many people can rival them and if someone able to rival one of them and that person is an unknown person, it would cause a trouble. A strong person without background is troublesome when handle in the future.


    "Ha... let''s speak next thing. How is it Goru?" The king looking at a young man with lively face and messed hair.


    "It is done your majesty. Our trump card that even able to shaken the Union- no, even this land!" Goru joyously cheered. The king nodded in satisfaction and then the meeting is over.


    Rido walks alone on the corridor of the castle while humming.


    "Rido, please wait."


    Rido turned his head and saw the young man with baby face.


    "What''s up Bons?" Rido said with smile showing is teeth.


    "Rido, do you trust that Goru?" Bons said with curious eyes. Bons, the Holy pillar.


    "No, but the king trust him, right?" Rido shrugged his shoulders and start walking again.


    "But that man is dangerous. He come out of nowhere and proposed great power for the king." Bons said while follows Rido from behind.


    "Then if that power is dangerous for this kingdom, we shall crush it." Rido waving his hand signaling he don''t wished to speak any more about it.


    But Bons keep persistent.


    "I already sent someone to spy on and check his background. But he is a clean sheet."


    "Then, that''s good, right?" Rido yawned.


    "Rido! Something suspicious linger around Goru. Why don''t you try to be serious?" Bons raised his tone and Rido stopped then turned towards Bons.


    "Without evidence and real proof, how could i be serious? Besides, that Goru got approved by the nobles while me the commoner is just like a tool for them." Rido laughed and walks away leaving Bons staring at his back. Bons with quite disappointment and sad face, he speaks.


    "But you''re the hero."

 Get stronger and a visitor

    "Uhh...."


    Noel woke up on a white bed. He saw unfamiliar ceiling and Evan sit on a chair beside him.


    "Good, you finally woke up." Evan said. He already bought new clothes and wearing them.


    "Evan? What- where is Oreily?"


    "Unfortunately she is escaped."


    "Damn." Noel looks angry. This is makes him curious why Noel is angry because of Oreily.


    "Care to explain about Oreily?"


    "Oreily Novister the Wind pillar. She was the best mage in Noguard kingdom before became Wind Pillar of Carbiz kingdom. At a certain night, she was together with the crown prince and killed him. Then she infiltrated the king''s tomb and stole the Sigil of Exodus. Sigil of Exodus was the symbol of this kingdom after founded. The sigil purpose is to open the gate of darkness but that''s impossible and yet that sigil still holds amazing power."


    Evan certainly know about Sigil of Exodus. Used to open the gate of darkness and created the rift between this land to Darkness land. Aside the sigil, a huge gate must be constructed to holds the gate.


    "She fled to Carbiz kingdom along with the sigil and became the Wind pillar. Also, she is the second strongest in the five pillars."


    "Who is the first?"


    "Rido the Destructor pillar. He also called Hero of Carbiz where he eliminated the horde of monsters alone."


    Evan nodded. He wanted to know just how strong Rido is. Is he really deserved to be a hero?


    Ughh...." Noel tried to sit but the wound on his chest reacted.


    "Take it slow. Even though the bleeding is stopped, it''s still a quite large wound."


    "So, why she is fled?"


    "I don''t know? Don''t ask me."


    Noel staring at Evan without moving. Yet Evan didn''t move a bit or felt awkward.


    "You''re hiding something huh."


    "Why would i?"


    ".........."


    Evan sighed when Noel staring at him too much.


    "Okay, she wanted to meet me again in the future if i go to Carbiz kingdom." Evan told the truth but he half-truth.


    "No! You shouldn''t!" Noel shouted with serious tone.


    "She is dangerous and you might be in danger." Noel said with worries but Evan laughing.


    "Alright alright Noel, there is nothing to be worry about."


    "Damn Evan! I''m worried about you!" Noel shouted with his red face.


    "Calm down okay. There is nothing to be worry about. I''m going to be fine."


    "Hmph, act like you''re very strong." Noel went back to sleep but the pain on his chest reacted once again and he jolted which makes Evan laughing.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "Hahaha.... alright, i''ll be back to get you a dinner okay." Evan stood and left the room.


    Outside the room, Evan sighed. Noel is really caring about people near him, he is good noble. It''s good to have friend like him.


    After Oreily fled, Noel didn''t wake even when the sun is down. Evan doesn''t have choice but to bring Noel to an inn and rent a room for him.


    ''I''m still weak.'' Evan in his thought. He is weak, to be injured by Oreily and his mana almost run out just by casted ''Absolute freeze'' within three meters. He could regain his old power by absorbing life force and he don''t know if it''s also works with death force. The other way around is start training again.


    Getting life force is easy, you just need to kill people and done, but Evan didn''t want to kill people mindlessly. While death force is only obtainable from the undead or those from underworld. Unfortunately, he can''t absorb his undead death force since they are far away.


    At the bar, Evan ordered a dinner food for Noel and after a while, he brought the food back to Noel and give it to him.


    "Thanks.¡± Noel said as he took the food and eat it.


    The next day. Evan and Noel get ready to leave the town.


    On their way going home, Evan asks.


    "Noel, will you tell your father about Oreily?"


    "No need, i don''t want to put more burden to him." He laughed. His father is having too much works right now and it would be bad if he collapsed.


    They have some chats right before arriving at the mansion. Both of them quickly went back to their own rooms and get some rest. Unfortunately, Evan don''t want take a rest the moment he remembered about his continuous nightmare so he decides to train.


    ''Expanding my mana capacity till the limit will help me. Proficiency with ice magic is good but not as good as before.'' Evan re-examine his abilities.


    ''My strength is stronger than non-average people while my speed is behind Oreily a lot, she might be not using her full power yet. Should i train the so-called life force?''


    Every living beings have life forces but each people is different. When the life force is trained, and used well. It can become a weapon to fight and strengthening the body. Evan didn''t consider this since he isn''t a martial arts person. But since he is weak, he need to take everything to grow stronger.


    Evan sit down on the floor and start meditating. He gathering his mana and then force them out then gathering them again and recycle them and force them out again. There are some ways to expand mana capacity but what Evan using now is what he learned long ago. By gathering every last drop of mana and then force them out from his body till nothing left and then gathering them again and recycle them, this will expand the capacity once all mana came in and out again till nothing left to be gather and force out. However, the more many he has, the longer it will take to do this. He is determined to become stronger.


    A week had passed. Evan doing his daily exercise in the morning and Ariana will greet him and gave him a towel. Their relationship is getting closer; however, they are just friends. Evan''s body is becoming more sturdy and hardcore exercise and daily sparring with Noel. Noel used different ways to defeat Evan but he ends up lost. While Evan magic is progressing smoothly since he only focused in one magic not others.


    Also, a news about war between Alainsten and Noguard has been spread out. Noguard pressured Alainstein really well but yesterday, Alainstein''s army manage to made Noguard suffers loss of its soldiers.


    The third princess ruled Alainstein and commanded the army. Even though some nobles protest against her, the strong nobles support her clearly to defend Alainstein. It''s not a week since she became the queen so her progress isn''t showing much. Adding that she is an unexpected successor and never had education about politics and military affairs, it''s quite understandable and she is more preferred than the other princesses.


    Count Rishawd wished for Noel and Evan to depart quickly before anything happens because of the war since the war took in his territory. However, Noel wished to stay a bit longer, at least two weeks.


    The other news is about the more sights of undead and many lands became not fertile anymore. This is serious matters and many kingdoms are in crisis. Especially Noguard which is affected it, Noguard ready to make peace with Alainstein to stabilize their lands rather taking a war but Alainstein refused and stated that if Noguard wants war then we will go through it. Truly, the fire rising even more.


    Present time, Evan and Noel have a sudden guest.


    "Hello, it''s been a while Noel."


    "Yes, it is, Falecia."


    A beauty slender girl greeted Noel. Her skin is white like never have touched by the sun, her blonde hair is made buns and her azure eyes staring at Noel endlessly. She is smile quite bright. Wearing blue simple but expensive dress, she walks towards Noel.


    "Care to explain the man behind you?" She said while glancing at Evan for a second.


    "He is Evan, my friend and bodyguard." Noel said with smile.


    "Evan, is it? Hello, i''m Falecia Dalbaurt. Daughter of Duke Dalbaurt, i''m happy to meet one of Noel''s friend."


    "Hello, i''m Evan, like wise." Evan bowed and then straighten himself.


    "Falecia, what''s the matter for you to come here?" Noel asked.


    "Am i not allowed?" She said with smile and Noel immediately shook his head.


    "I''m here to see if my fianc¨¦ is fine or not. I''m glad you''re fine and i heard that Count Rishawd urged you to leave immediately, why not?"


    "I wish to stay longer here."


    "Isn''t better to leave soon? Alainstein looks aggressive."


    "Hahaha, no worries. I have Evan protecting me."


    Falecia glanced at Evan again and them smiled.


    "What can one man do against an army? To be truth, i do not know his abilities, so i can''t trust him about your safety."


    Noel sighed and says.


    "Do not worry about me. Instead, i''m worry about you. What will happen if something went bad?"


    "Do you perhaps i came here unprepared? No, i came with several men to guards me. Besides that, i know magic too. Even though i''m fragile, i''m not weak." She said with calm yet sharp tone.


    "I understand. Now, let''s get inside. It''d better than be here."


    "Okay then."


    Falecia walking first ahead and Evan quickly come over Noel and says.


    "A fianc¨¦e, you never told me about it."


    "I''d never intend to." Noel said while wiping his forehead.


    "Ms. Falecia, she looks cold."


    "Not cold, but just high demeanor. She is daughter of duke after all. Even though she possessed such fragile body, she is quite skilled in magic and use two magics. She is also good in economic and politic. She already managing a fief."


    "You sounded afraid towards her."


    "Well yes.... she is possessive one you know." Noel laughed. Behind his laugh, there is some worry and happy about it.


    "Well, let''s not make her wait." Noel said.


    Evan follows Noel from behind but then he stopped and looks behind. Two figures stood near the door and looking at Evan. However, they are not showing any hostilities.


    "Who?" Evan asked.


    "Bodyguards of Ms. Falecia." One of them answered with stern tone. Upon hearing that, Evan nodded and start following Noel again.


    Noel and Falecia are sitting opposite each other in the backyard of the mansion in the pagoda. Evan stood not far from them to not disturb and act like a bodyguard.


    Evan could hear what they are talking about but it''s just small matters.


    The day went to night so quickly. It was decided that Falecia will stay here for few days.


    As usual before going to sleep. Evan is expanding his mana and train his magic before going to sleep.


    "Fuuuh...." Evan exhaled and stop his meditating and walks to the bed and lying on it.


    "Bad night." He muttered as he closes his eyes.

 A long nightmare

    "Bad night." He muttered as he closes his eyes.


    "Ice isn''t? Why do you like ice?"


    "I think because ice is beautiful? It''s cold but it''s beautiful. I don''t know other reason but i like ice."


    "Even it will make you froze to death?"


    "Hahaha, everything has its own bad. I rather play with ice than with fire."


    "Why don''t you play both?"


    Evan opened his eyes. It wasn''t a nightmare at all. Rather, it''s bringing back his old memories. Evan stood from the bed and then felt a pressure for a moment.


    "Magic?" He muttered and went outside the room. The corridor is empty and the light from the moon entering through the windows.


    "Hm?" Evan squinted his eyes towards the darkness on the corridor. Several people walking towards him. No, not people but undead.


    "What?" Evan looks disbelief. He then looking at the other side of the corridor and found some undead coming at him too.


    "Why didn''t you die?"


    Evan shivered.


    "You monster."


    Evan took out his sword and hold it with his both hands.


    "Die-"


    Slash


    One of the undead''s head fell to the floor. Evan cut it with cold eyes. The undead with the head fell to the ground suddenly vanish like dust.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "Not a real undead? Is this an illusion?"


    Evan keep slashing the undead and they are disappeared like dust. Normally undead will leave the dead bodies lying around but it turned into dust. Evan pinched his cheek but no reaction to the surrounding. He then cut his hand a bit but no reaction too.


    "Strong illusion? Who casted-"


    Evan felt the pressure again and the remaining undead disappeared. Evan hesitated but then put his sword back inside his ring and open his door.


    "?!"


    "Oh, Evan? You finally come back."


    A familiar face, his mother greeted her while cooking something. Evan froze and standing still. He certainly knew that this is an illusion but what''s the purpose?


    "Hello mother." Evan said after returning to his sense.


    "What''s wrong Evan?" His mother asked with worry.


    "Nothing, what do you cook today?"


    "Nothing special. Just a porridge." She said with smile.


    "Is that so?" Evan walks to his mother.


    "Can i help you to cut the potato?"


    "No, it''s sharp. I can''t let you trying to cut your fingers again."


    "I promise it won''t happen." Evan took the knife and cut the potato.


    "See?" Evan smiled. His mother staring at the potato and looking at Evan.


    "You cut it well! Did miracle fall upon us?" His mother happily said it. Evan sighed but then smiled.


    "But i think that miracle must end."


    Katrina''s face froze and looking at Evan while frowned.


    "Why?"


    "Because i had enough."


    Evan felt the pressure again and his mother and the surrounding disappeared and become his normal room.


    Evan walks outside the room and found the plain field with a girl stood far away from her.


    Then, the plain field suddenly covered by dead bodies and she stood alone with blood on her white dress. She is looking at Evan with no expression.


    "Tell me. Why i am a tool of massacre?" She said.


    "You aren''t a tool. You''re a person."


    "Then why this body doesn''t feel anything against you?"


    "That''s because you''re not her."


    Again, the pressure. The scenery changed into burning village and in front of him there is Evan.


    This Evan has black hair and red eyes.


    "You''re too weak." The black-haired Evan said.


    "I am weak and i''m accept it."


    "Your loved ones will die because of you!"


    "That is the reason why i want to become strong."


    "No matter how strong you are, you are always alone."


    "That''s you." Evan start walking towards the black Evan.


    "And that is also me. Individuals are meant to be alone after all but they will make a group and a society.¡±


    "Then, do you wish to be alone again?"


    "No. I do not, but by becoming stronger and stronger. I''ll becoming alone." Evan hold grip his hand and looking at the black with bitter smile.


    "Why do you keep that burden?"


    "Because strong one must bear responsibility and the weak one must understood and work hard. Strong and weak need each other."


    "And yet you are alone without someone by your side."


    "It is...."


    Pressure.


    The scenery changed into countless corpses lying and there is a skeleton stood with a dark armor and hold a staff. His eyes glowing a blue fire.


    "Emotions aren''t needed. Such a thing must be thrown away far away."


    "That''s your weakness."


    "To obtain power, that is the path you must choose."


    "And you becoming alone."


    "It was inevitable."


    "Then you choose the most selfish thing."


    "A countless death for human body and new life."


    "But you don''t regret it until you died once."


    "Life has regret and we must bear it till reaching our end."


    "Even the path is endless."


    "Yes...."


    Evan opened his eyes. What he saw is his room''s ceiling. He sits on the bed and looking at his hand.


    "What a long nightmare." He said with ashen face and soaked body with sweat.

 Fight between bodyguards

    The next morning. Evan as usual starts his hardcore exercise and after that he sits down and relaxing.


    "Hmm.... usually Ariana will come with a towel." Evan muttered. It became a habit to receive a towel from Ariana in the early morning. But he didn''t see Ariana around, Evan just thinking that Ariana might be busy.


    Evan went to take bath and changed his clothes. He became Noel''s bodyguard once again and keep staying not far from him or more like he starts his job as a real bodyguard.


    Noel and Falecia have a talk in early morning. This is made Noel skipped his daily exercise. After that, they have breakfast and then Noel finally able to be free and have a talk with Evan.


    "Aghh... I skipped the exercise." Noel complained after he alone with Evan. Evan only chuckled and then looking around. Right now, they are in library. A good place to talk for both of them.


    "So Evan, how are they?" Noel asked which makes Evan confuse.


    "Her bodyguards." Noel added and Evan slowly nodded in understanding. Certainly, he already met then, they are mysterious and rarely appear but Evan could felt that they are watching when Noel and Falecia together.


    "They are strong but i must always be cautious. They are mysterious after all."


    "Agree, we lack information about them and they lack information about you too."


    "Why we''re like discussing about something else?" Evan laughed and then Noel too. They talked like they are in some kind of super important meeting.


    "Oh right, Noel, do you know Ariana? The maid in here." Evan asked in curiosity. He didn''t hope Noel to remembered all of the servants in here but he might hope him to know her.


    "Maid? I''d never hear a maid with that name?"


    "Are you sure?"


    "Why don''t you ask the butler? Erkil?"


    "Ah, yes." So far, Evan never interacted with other servants except Ariana. They building a relationship because a coincidence too.


    "But i don''t know what he looks like." Evan said.


    "He is wearing casual butler uniform. Old just like father and his hair is all white, his eyes are black and his body is quite sturdy and he is always full of dignified manner as a butler. You could find him quickly." Noel explained the detail about Erkil''s appearance.


    "I got it."


    "Ah..." Noel put a face like he remembered something.


    "What''s wrong Noel?"


    "I forgot. You mentioned that you will show me your magic, right? Even though i saw your magic back then, i couldn''t grasp it well. But i expect it''s going to be amazing, right?" Noel said with happy tone. Evan certainly remembered that he told Noel that he will show his magic, he did forget about that too before.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "So, when do you wish for it?"


    "Let''s go right now, at the backyard. I''ll get Falecia to see how capable you are." Noel stood and quickly leave. Evan obediently nodded and also leave to the backyard.


    After few minutes of waiting. Noel appear with Falecia and her bodyguards. Evan looking at her bodyguards with focus and memorizing their appearances.


    "Evan." Noel coming to him and whispered.


    "Falecia agreed but she want you to show your magic while fighting them." Noel with quite sweating face. Evan glanced at Falecia and saw her smiling.


    "The fight will use physical and magic." Noel continued.


    "I see, then, let us begin."


    "You''re not objecting?" Noel is bit surprised since Evan agreed so easily.


    "Yeah, i want to finish this quickly." To be truth, Evan already had enough. He fought with Oreily and then had a long nightmare then will fight again with both of them. His days starting to get full of fight and nightmare.


    Noel walks to Falecia and said that Evan agreed. Evan took out his sword from the ring and hold it with his both hand. Falecia''s bodyguards also took out their weapons.


    The first bodyguard has big body like a bear with claws as he weapons. His face is covered by half mask and only his eyes can be seen, yet Evan able to see his round face clearly.


    The second bodyguard has slender body like malnourished person. He holds two stilettos with face covered by half mask too. Both of them wearing dark clothes fits their bodies.


    "Shall we begin?" Falecia said.


    "Yes, begin." Noel nodded.


    With confirmation of the fight begin. The first bodyguard running towards Evan like a tiger. Evan didn''t move an inch and keep waiting till he is in within range. However, suddenly, the second bodyguard jumping out above the first. When his eyes met Evan''s eyes, Evan couldn''t move his body.


    ''Paralyze?''


    The first bodyguard within the range, however Evan couldn''t attack due to being paralyzed. Evan staring at the first and casted magic without chant.


    A spear made from ice coming out from the ground and almost hit the first''s head if he didn''t dodge right away. The second attacking from above and Evan casted again. Ice arrows created and launched to the second.


    The second blocked the arrows with his stilettos, however the last arrow wasn''t an arrow but rather a rising ice pillar which pushed the second away.


    Evan moved, the paralyze finally over. He grabbed his sword tightly and dashed at the first.


    "Enhance bear!"


    The first shouted and his body suddenly getting larger and he swings his claw towards Evan. He blocks the claw but then let it slide away by moving to the side, Evan could felt the unbelievable power within the attack.


    ''The first bodyguard is enhanced and the second is paralyzing?''


    "Enhance, panther!" The first bodyguard suddenly become faster and shifted his claw direction towards Evan.


    "Ice decoy." Evan said and an ice which resembling him created and he flew not far from it. The ice decoy destroyed by one attack.


    "Kikikiki!" The second bodyguard charging at Evan with low body near the ground. Evan didn''t look at him at all and yet Evan low his sword and suddenly charging at the second at fast speed.


    The second shocked and his magic which is able to paralyze someone''s movement just by looking at their eyes got cancelled. Evan instead using his sword, he using his hand and grabbed the second''s face then smash it to the ground.


    "Quite brutal." Noel said in daze. He never saw Evan used such brutal attack.


    Evan shifted his gaze to the first and charged at him. Even though Evan''s speed isn''t enhanced but it''s only quite inferior against enhance one.


    "Enhance gorilla!" The first swings his claws again and again towards Evan yet all of them got blocked. But, no one noticed that Evan made each clash between the claws and his sword using ice magic. Each time the claws clashed with the sword. The claws got cold and freezing till the temperature really low. Then Evan didn''t hold back and clash the claws with more power.


    "?!"


    The claws got destroyed and in instant Evan swipe his sword near the first''s neck and he could feel the chill cut his neck even though it wasn''t real at all since the sword only passed the neck by an inch


    "Phew." Evan exhaled and then looking at Falecia and Noel. But then he realized that Noel put a panic face and noticed that he forgot about the second.


    When he turned, he saw the second behind him and launch his stiletto. Their eyes met, however, both of them stopped moving. The second''s stiletto barely about to touch Evan''s stomach but it didn''t move afterwards. The second''s eyes became bloodshot and trying to move his body but sadly he couldn''t.


    After few seconds passed, Evan manage to move while the second still stand still. Evan tapped the Second''s shoulder and all the coldness inside him disappeared then he fell to the ground with weak body.


    "Amazing." Falecia said with smile.


    "Ice magic, you are quite powerful with it. To be able to use chant less and then froze him just by looking. I felt assured about Noel''s safety to you." She said.


    "Thank you Ms. Falecia." Evan bowed.


    "Both of you, come." Falecia said it to her bodyguard. Her tone changed from gentle to stern one. The first bodyguard was the first to arrive and kneel before her while the second slowly moving due to the cold still remain.


    "Learn from what happened today."


    "Yes my lady." The two said it in unison. Falecia gently nodded and dismissed them then turned towards Noel.


    "Let us talk tomorrow Noel, after breakfast, i do not wish to make you skip your exercise." She said before leaving.


    "Ah yes...."


    Watching Falecia leaving with her bodyguards, Evan coming closer to Noel and says.


    "She is very understanding girl."


    "Indeed."

 Meeting Ariana

    The next morning, Evan and Noel doing exercise at the same time. However, Noel stop exercising earlier than Evan.


    "Your stamina is crazy." Noel panted and sits on the ground. Evan only smiled and keep exercising. He is clearly not showing of tiredness, even though he is sweating very much, he isn''t tired at all.


    Evan then sits beside Noel and took a towel to wipe his sweat. Once again, he remembered about Ariana. He intends to ask Erkil about her today.


    "The sky is going to be dark." Noel abruptly said that with face of displeasure. The clear morning sky soon will be covered by dark clouds.


    "It''s not a bad thing isn''t?" Evan said. He didn''t hate rain or dark clouds. Rather, he likes rain and dark clouds. Aside rain which pouring water that benefits many living beings, the dark clouds will cover him from the sun. He doesn¡¯t know if he dislikes sun or not, but Evan tend to get into the shadow when sun is rise, however not that he can hide forever from the sun.


    "It isn''t bad but i heard dark clouds at time like this will bring unfortunate." Noel mentioned about what currently happening between Noguard and Alainstein.


    "You''re thinking too much." Evan didn''t disagree to what Noel said, but he believes it will be positive things. Evan after all is an optimist, even though he often depressed by his guilt.


    "Well, just hope there is nothing will happen."


    "Agree."


    Both of them then took a bath and get changed. Evan changed into white long sleeves shirt with black trouser and usual brown shoes. He didn''t mind much about his appearance and quickly searching Erkil.


    "Mr. Erkil." Evan said after saw Erkil descending from the stairs. Erkil had a bit surprised expression, he didn''t expect for Evan to meet him.


    "Evan, is it? I believe this is the first time we talk." Erkil said after descending down. He put a kind smile, unlike the count. Erkil seem have good healthy.


    "Yes, it is, there is something i would like to ask." Evan just want to get to the point.


    "Oh, what would it be?"


    "Do you know Ariana? The maid in this mansion."


    Erkil frowned and quickly thinking about a maid named Ariana.


    "Evan, there is no maid with name by Ariana." Erkil said after confirmed his memory.


    Evan put disbelief face and asked again the almost same question but Erkil answered the same too. There isn''t hint of lie in Erkil which mean he is telling the truth. However, Evan couldn''t believe it. If there is no maid named Ariana, then who is the girl he met at the first time and the one who gave him towels in daily exercise?


    "Then, please excuse me." Evan bowed and then leave. He could felt that something certainly weird. When he encountered another maid, he asked the same question but she gave the same answer like Erkil.


    Evan went back to his room and gathering his thought. Two possibilities. Ariana never was a maid in this mansion or her identity is kept secret. But then what''s the reason behind those two? If Ariana really wasn''t here, then who he met before? If her identity is kept secret, then why she interacted with Evan quite friendly?


    Evan couldn''t come up with any thought and decide to leave the matters for now. It''s something that he can''t think without little information.


    After having breakfast, Noel and Falecia having a talk again and apparently that Falecia''s bodyguards are absent.


    The days passed and eventually there is a week left before Evan and Noel departure.


    At that day, at certain afternoon. A man coming to the mansion and reported to the count. Somehow, it''s something urgent and not long after that, the count coming out from the office and meet Noel, Falecia and Evan with bit pale face.


    "Both of you, you two must leave quickly." Count Rishawd said it to Noel and Evan and then he looking at Falecia.


    "I''m sorry Falecia but the situation is getting worse. I wish you to return home quickly."


    "Father, what is happening?" Noel asked with worry. He knew that his father wouldn''t look that pale if the situation isn''t worst.


    "Alainstein has manage to push Noguard and marching to us now. Our army got lessen but their army got increased."


    "That''s impossible?!" Falecia shouted. All of them suddenly looking at frantic Falecia.


    "Our army certainly have upper hands in number while Alainstein certainly less. They could hire the mercenaries but it will take a lot of money and they won''t be so obedient with the military." Falecia said and then the count continues.


    "That is right, it''s also impossible to gather the current number of Alainstein had in short time. We suspected they are hiding their forces but that''s impossible."


    In this worst situation, Evan suddenly says...


    "Excuse me, but, is there any weird movements in Alainstein?"


    "I don''t know. At first clash, we are pushing them real hard but the second doesn''t feel that much anymore and then the third feels as if they got reinforcements and also.... they are stationing over the dead bodies and took them."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Evan twitched upon heard that from the count and asks other question.


    "What about Alainstein''s condition? Their physical? Stamina? Their movements?"


    The others looking at Evan with curious and frowned expressions. Yet the count answers.


    "Their condition doesn''t get worse. Their morale is just a same. Even our fight last for more than a week, they seem not tired at all and their movements are coordinated well."


    Too little information to confirm Evan''s assumption. He didn''t dare to say it loud but it''s certainly weird. Still, he can''t make them believe what will Evan says with the small information. If he could just get one of their corpse or saw them directly. He might be able confirm it.


    "Now, Noel, Evan, go to prepare. Falecia, please prepare too. I''m afraid they will come to this place."


    "Understood." Falecia answered first and leave them immediately.


    "Father, what about you?" Noel asked with worry. His father is old and mostly staying in the office than going out except on important business.


    "Don''t worry about it, your father is quite strong and i will defend this place." The count pouted his chest and smile confidently. However, that smile isn''t reassuring at all.


    "What are you saying.... anyway, father, do not over work yourself."


    Noel will obediently leave and go to the academy sooner. He doesn¡¯t want to make his father worry more than this.


    "Good, now go." The count said. Evan and Noel then leave to their own rooms.


    "Hm?" Evan noticed a letter on his bed. He took the letter and read it. Evan frowned and looks around the room but he didn''t find anything strange.


    What was written in the letter was an invitation to meet up not far from the mansion tonight by Ariana.


    Knowing the sender was Ariana, he is sure that Ariana was a real person but the reason why nobody knows about her is still mystery.


    Evan packed his belongings. Most of his belongings were those brought by the count for Evan. He had little belonging when coming to this place but now it increased and mainly it''s clothes for him.


    At night, Evan quietly leave the mansion to meet Ariana. He confirmed that no one is following him. When he walking not far from the mansion, Evan stopped by a pressure.


    "Barrier..." Evan muttered. He entered magic barrier and already out of normal people reach. The scenery around looks same but people won''t notice Evan if they passing by.


    "You remembered me, i''m sure that i erased everyone memory about me." A gentleman voice and a man with young and charming face appear like a ghost. He wore an elegant robe.


    "Who?"


    "I''m Ariana." He said.


    Evan frowned, Ariana is a girl why this man claimed that he is Ariana?


    The man smiled and suddenly his face altered and turned to Ariana''s face. But not stopping that, the face changed to Evan''s face.


    "You......" Evan couldn''t believe what he saw. The person in front of him able to change his face so easily.


    "Not just my face even my body." The man changed to a alluring woman with a dark green dress that showing her body which is quite inappropriate for a lady. Her hair is green just like her eyes, she smiled with her red lips.


    "Who are you exactly?"


    "A mortal like you shouldn''t know too much. I don''t know why you could remember me but it''s seem you are quite amazing for mortal. I think, i should kill you?" The woman, Ariana said while moving her body in seducing manner.


    "Kill me? For just keeping your identity?" Evan asked.


    "Well.... yes. Anyway, if you don''t want to be dead, i could make you my servant and offer you to my master."


    "Master?" Evan frowned.


    "The Undead king."


    Evan became expressionless rather put a shocked expression. He knew there is new Undead king and himself doesn¡¯t qualified to be called Undead king anymore.


    "Ah, i mean." Ariana corrected herself. "Not the one who made this mess. But the one who made the nightmare." She smiled wickedly, even that smile looks seducing enough.


    "Servant of the previous Undead king then." Evan said.


    "Correct, you seem not surprised?"


    To be truth, he was surprised. To meet his servant after 1000 years and one of them still doing fine. He was glad but he wondering what is his servants planning ever since his absent.


    "Romue." Evan muttered which made Ariana widened her eyes and giving a murderous aura.


    "Don''t you dare speak that name! Only my master able to call my true name!" Her tone changed, she is enraged and Evan knew that clearly. She always mad when someone called her real name except her master. To be truth, Romue isn''t a woman at all nor a man. She or he is genderless but she could turn into man or woman as she wished.


    "Romue."


    "Stop!"


    Evan laughing inside. How funny looking at his servant''s angry face. It''s a reunion between master and servant but the servant didn''t notice Evan at all since he isn''t an undead anymore.


    He wishes to become a human was kept by himself. Even his servants didn¡¯t know about it.


    "Do you believe the previous Undead king will arise?" Evan asked.


    "Of course! He is master and the true king of undead! That impostor doesn''t have rights to do so! However, he is strong." She looks displeased.


    "Romue."


    "Stop calling my name!"


    An anger burst. Suddenly Evan''s left arm got cut off and blood sprouted. Yet, Evan remain calm which made Romue bit shocked.


    "Under the command of Eternal covenant. Romue, kneel."


    In instant, Romue kneeled down by force. She couldn''t fight back and shocked. Evan''s aura changed drastically, this is one of remains of his previous personality. Acting as an absolute cold Undead king which is antagonism for his present personality.


    "M-master?!" Romue said while trembling.


    Evan walks to her and says.


    "Arise."


    Romue stood and facing Evan with fear but anticipation, happiness and joyous. But she remembered that she was act rude to her master and had guilty face.


    "It''s been a long time, Romue." Evan smiled.


    "Yes master!" Romue bowed.


    "Please, do not act like that. I''m not an Undead king anymore and just a human." Evan didn''t want to become an Undead king anymore, he wishes his servant not act like a servant anymore.


    "How can that be?! Even if you are a human or a dragon. Master is still my master!" Romue said with happy face.


    "I see.... you haven''t changed but i have changed. I became more soft and kind because i''m a human but i''m grateful."


    "Master grateful by becoming human?" Romue said with confuse.


    "Yes, i was once a human before an undead. Now i became a human again and obtained what lost in myself."


    "Master.... may i know what you obtained as a human?"


    "Heart, emotions and warm." Evan said with smile.


    "But such things-"


    "I know, they are weakness but i''m gladly received this weakness. Enough of that. Care to explain why you became Ariana?" Evan was curious with this. Why would his servant become a maid in a coincidence place and both of then end up meeting together?


    "It just out of my boringness. I changed to many people and animals and live like them. It was a fate for me to reunite with master." She happily said that and bowed slightly."


    "I see, then reason why you erased their memories?"


    "To make no attachment to me." Evan clearly knew it will be something like that.


    "Then, what''s the purpose of you suddenly disappeared?"


    "Because the fake Undead king is moving."


    "Is it regarding Alainstein and Noguard?"


    "Yes, it is as you said master."


    Evan had thought about it. Knowing the new Undead king location was not that far from Noguard and Alainstein and then Alainstein''s army suddenly increased and they are fighting without getting tired is another proof that Undead king is the one behind the Alainstein''s army.


    "Did he joined hands with Alainstein?"


    "Yes."


    "Care to explain the detail?"


    "I''ll be happy to. When Alainstein lost their king, the third princess took the throne but she doesn''t have power to backing her and thus she met the fake. It is just assumption, i don''t know if is real or not. After obtained the fake''s power, she used it to control the nobles and then raise an army of dead with full armor and fight Noguard without stop." Romue explained with happiness but when she mentioned the new Undead king or the fake, she put an angry face.


    Evan pondering for a moment. Alainstein surely had the upper hand now. If Noguard didn''t realise that Alainstein is under control of Undead king, they will lose in the war. But Evan won''t proceed to help them. Evan didn''t harbor any hard feelings against Alainstein anymore. But then again, he has friends to be protected. He didn''t know where Kalba and Nimura whereabouts and couldn''t confirm their situation. As for Noel, he is affiliated with Noguard as a noble. He can''t help them directly with his current power, so he needs help.


    "Romue, become the new Undead king''s servant."


    "Why?!" Romue shouted in angriness but then she immediately apologizes and prostrated.


    "You will infiltrate them and make yourself become trustworthy person."


    "Ah... i see, master wish to crush him from inside right? Quite brilliant plan!"


    Evan coughed when Romue cheered, he didn''t wish to crush the new Undead king yet.


    "Your other task is to reveal that Alainstein joined hands with him and thus it will make other kingdoms alerted. This will make Alainstein in checkmate but not with the new Undead king."


    Evan know that the new Undead king wouldn''t be that fool. Romue also mentioned that he is strong, so Evan could only wish stop Alainstein and then leave the Undead king with the Union.


    "Alright, that is all."


    "Yes master.... but..." Romue looks restless and looking towards Evan''s left arm. Evan also noticed that his left arm was cut off.


    "Let me help you, master."


    "Certainly."


    Romue walks closer to Evan and touch his left shoulder. She channeling through her mana and then Evan''s arm suddenly regenerated.


    "Master''s body is quite weak isn''t? Yoru surely won''t accept master in state like this."


    Evan laughing hearing about Yoru. Yoru also his servant but this one is too prideful to acknowledge a human as his master. He will surely oppose Evan if he knew that his master became a human.


    Evan''s left arm regenerated. It''s a different arm and Evan could feel that isn''t human''s arm anymore.


    "Romue, what''s the left arm?"


    "I used my mana and some parts of my body. It''s certainly stronger than human''s arm. It will help master in dangerous state." Romue said with smile.


    "Thank you Romue, i appreciate your help." Evan smiled. Romue somehow blushed and hold his master cheek and kiss his cheek.


    "Hehehe.." she smiled and says, "I''m happy to meet master again. See you soon."


    Evan laughed awkwardly. He was glad that Romue is in woman form but if it was in man form. He would feel sorrow.


    Evan picked his previous left arm and burned with fire magic. Then he returned to the mansion with left sleeve gone.

 On the way to neutral zone

    Due to hasten departure. They will tomorrow while Falecia leaving today.


    "Noel, i wish for you to be safe." Falecia said in front of her carriage and facing Noel.


    "Yes, i wish for your safety too and do not worry. I have Evan with me." Noel said and holds Falecia''s hand.


    "Until our next meeting, take care."


    "You too."


    Even though it was ordinary farewell. Somehow both of them getting in the mood and holding hands bit longer than to be expected.


    "Youngsters." The count said while yawning, the only who heard him was Evan whose laughed.


    Falecia''s carriage left afterwards and Noel with Evan is together in the library.


    "How long it will take to the Rashburg Academy?" Evan asked.


    "Around two weeks, we''re going with balloonship. Rashburg Academy located in Voru city which is in neutral zone." Noel said.


    Evan searching through the books and found about neutral zone. Neutral zone was created 800 years ago by Union because the worst war state at that time. Neutral zone received many supports by kingdoms which aren''t at war and raised an army to stop the war at all cost. Neutral zone is made like a giant and wide fortress. Seven Giant and thick walls made to protect the zone from any harm. It said that neutral zone is the safest place. Those walls intentionally were built as last hope and protector of Azure crystal; the Union is responsible for all of this and if they outlaw their own laws. The other kingdoms have rights to stop the Union.


    While the Union itself consisted by people who aware of the history and they are called the land''s guardian. Their purpose is to stop the same tragedy of nightmare winter or possible outbreak in this land.


    "balloon ship.... where do we get one?" Evan asked.


    "Capital of course. It will take a week or so to arrive at the capital. Then we need to wait the balloon ship at most maybe two days? Going to the neutral zone will need two or three days. By horse, it will take near a month or so."


    Evan slowly nodded. balloon ship, he never heard that before and that''s mean the technology is advanced.


    The next day. It finally the departure day. Evan and Noel entering the carriage and the count waving his hand on their departure. The carriage is moving rather fast; they intend to week more earlier so that they get a quick chance to get on the balloon ship.


    When at night, the carriage stopped on side road or at a town or village they passed by. Resting for all night and leaving in early morning. Even though their journey is quite uncomfortable, Evan and Noel able to bear with it and eventually they arrived at the capital two days earlier than expected.


    "Welcome to the capital, Orsga." Noel said. Orsga, the capital of Noguard, surrounded by red thick tall wall. The gate of the capital is big that it needs to be moved by magic. Evan didn''t get amazed somehow. He already saw grander capital than this in the past. Of course, that capital is no longer exist and that''s because of him.


    "balloon ship." Evan said when he looking at the gigantic object flying on the sky.


    "Yeah, that''s the balloon ship. Each kingdom only has three balloon ships and that''s the rule." Noel explained.


    "Why only three?" Evan tilted his head.


    "The Union is the one who made the balloon ship. The maintenance also by them and only piloted by them too. They have distrust towards the kingdoms." Noel said with normal expression as he picked his luggage.


    Evan nodded and picked his luggage then both of them walks together to balloon ship station.


    "We''re going to check the available balloon ship first." Noel said.


    Arriving at the balloon station. They entering a building where people waiting to get the ticked to enter the balloon ship.


    "Just wait here." Noel said and leave his luggage with Evan. He went to the line and waiting.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    Evan looking at building, it''s quite clean and decorated really well. The building also in good condition and comfortable to see. The people in the building are almost wearing expensive clothes. They must be nobles or rich people and Evan thinking that balloon ship only ride able by the nobles but that isn''t the case, the commoners also lining up and he thinks the second possibility. The ticket for balloon ship is expensive and noble able to pay them easily while commoner have a hard time to do so.


    Not long after that, Noel returns with two tickets on his hand, he looks happy.


    "We''re lucky." He grinned.


    "We can leave tomorrow before noon."


    "That''s great. Is the ticket expensive?" Evan asked.


    "Yeah, 3 golds for one person."


    Evan nodded, that''s certainly amount of commoner couldn''t afford. They better spend 3 golds for their daily rather than riding a balloon ship unless they have something to do or maybe their wish to ride one exceed their needs.


    Evan and Noel went to an inn and rent two rooms for one night only. The inn has two floors; the first floor is a tavern while the second is the rooms for rent. Both Evan and Noel have dinner in the tavern.


    "Did you hear? The situation is getting worst between Alainstein and Noguard."


    "I heard they are pushing our army? Where did they get that huge numbers all of sudden?"


    "The third princess, who was her name? Qisha Virz Alainstein? She is maybe the first queen that rose in throne very quickly and seize opportunity."


    The people were gossiping. Evan glanced at Noel who made worry expression. He certainly knows what Noel worried about, it is his father who staying at his territory.


    "Aside that thing. I feel our night is getting more unsettling. The rumor about the undead king, it is real isn''t?"


    "Probably? Never met one but the undead sight around and some people who got attacked by them are wide spreading."


    "So, will there be another nightmare winter?"


    "Pfft. Old people are exaggerated, there is no way someone able to make a winter all across the land!"


    "Hey, Undead king isn''t someone anymore."


    The more time passed, the more story of nightmare winter is just a myth or legend. People wouldn''t put much faith until they see something real. But in reality, you have to believe what you can''t see and what you can see. Because you are limited. Old tales not just tales only, if not, why would people told about it? At least if isn''t real, people able to get the meaning behind the story.


    After dinner, they went to sleep early and woke up in early morning. Evan and Noel went to exercise. They didn''t have much time for exercise on their journey back then. But now they have time to have exercise. Afterwards, they have breakfast and resting for a while before going to the station.


    The balloon ship is ready. Evan was astonished. He is interested how this balloon ship can fly, he knows that there is an air inside the balloon but what makes the balloon ship move and rotate? Is it magic or mechanism?


    "Oh, so you still alive. N-O-E-L." A mocking tone sounded once they aboard the ship. Noel frowned and looking to his right. A man at same age as him with prideful attitude and a face which is on same par with Noel. He has blonde hair combed to the left side which covered his ear and his eyes are red, he is wearing an expensive red outfit.


    "Glein." Noel said in suppressed tone. He is glaring at Glein with dissatisfaction.


    "Oh? Such a gaze. Know your place. You don''t even can stand against me?" Glein said in mocking tone. He then shifted his eyes to Evan.


    "Who is that? Your dog?" He laughed.


    "He is my friend! My bodyguard." Noel said it with angry tone but that didn''t affect Glein at all. Yet, he is becoming more evilly happy.


    "Ah friend? Bodyguard? Such a low taste huh. Even Noel needs someone to protect him, right? Protected by mere commoner, hahahaha!" Glein laughed really hard and became everyone¡¯s attention. Noel couldn''t take it anymore and he suddenly took out his sword and aim it towards Glein. Yet, Glein smile wickedly.


    "Pointing your sword to me? Do you wish to lose your position? Do you dare against me? Glein Erdest?" He said mockingly.


    "I don''t care who you are, but do not bad mouth my friend!"


    "Tsk, so small minded one. I wonder how did you became a noble. Getting angry just by this, i wonder what will happen when you grow up?"


    Evan doesn''t know why these two are really hostile to each other. Noel easily lose his temper when meet Glein while Glein himself rather calm and happily mocking Noel. Both of them have gap in emotion control.


    "Beside...." Glein said while pushing away Noel''s sword. "I''m far stronger than you." He smiled.


    "Anyway, enough of this. See you later." Glein turned his body and walks away.


    Noel exhaled and then inhale. He put his sword back and turned towards Evan.


    "Sorry Evan. To think we would meet Glein. Well, i rather expect this but not this soon." Noel said in apologetic face and tone.


    "Doesn''t matter, but who he is?"


    "Glein Erdest, son of Duke Erdest. He is an arrogant noble and he isn''t just word, his skill truly amazing than me. Somehow he likes to mock me and shunned me when he able to." Noel said in irritated tone.


    "Clearly, he is more superior than you." Evan said.


    "You think so too? He able to control his emotion really well and use people around him. He didn''t care about commoner and he is someone that able to trample people he wants. But thanks to Falecia, he is unable to lay his hand on me." Noel laughed.


    "I felt ashamed to be protected by a girl." He continued.


    Evan tapped his back and says.


    "What can be done? Both of you have different statuses and only people with same status could challenge each other. So why don''t you just work hard and then marry Falecia."


    "You''re more mature than usual? Anyway, i can''t just rely on Falecia, i need to make my stand too. Let''s go."


    They went to their own rooms and put they¡¯re belonging inside. The balloon ship could take 300 people and this balloon ship has around 240 people.


    Evan looking around the ship, he can''t just stay still. He was fascinated by the technology. Evan scanned every part of the balloon ship and confirmed it.


    Not long after that, the balloon ship departed. Evan quickly went to side and looking down to the capital from above.


    "This is much comfortable than riding a dragon." He muttered.


    The balloon ship flying quite high but the land still visible and it moving quite fast but neutral zone still far away. Just hope the weather isn''t going to be bad or monsters attacking on the air.


    When it''s breakfast, lunch or dinner time, the attendants will serve the foods and the passenger will come to the dining hall.


    "Quite good isn''t?" Noel said after chewing his food.


    "By good, is it the food or something else?"


    "All of it!"


    "Then it''s good." Evan smiled. He enjoying the feeling on the air and the food is delicious too. Evan looking at the window, it''s night and the sky is full of stars. The uneasiness inside him erased just by looking at it.


    After dinner, Evan and Noel quickly went to bed and woke up early.


    Looking at below scenery. Right now, they are already left Noguard''s territory and entering Tamas kingdom. One more kingdom to pass and they will arrive at neutral zone.


    Day went to dark once again. Evan and Noel looking at the scenery. There is nothing to be seen since it''s dark but they got nothing to do.


    Evan glanced at Noel who had sad face.


    "Worry about your father?" Evan asked and Noel slowly nodded.


    "I don''t know his news right now. I hope he is fine but...you know, i don''t want to lose him. He is the only one i got as a family." He said with bitter smile.


    "Yes, i hope your father is fine."


    Evan wished for it. If Noel suffered the same thing like him which is losing his parents, he doesn¡¯t know if Noel can hold on. Human heart is weak and strongly driven by emotions. He doesn¡¯t know if Noel will get depressed or hatred.


    "Hm? What is that?" Someone said it.


    Evan looking to in front of the ship. The balloon ship turning on the light which is powered by magic and another ship can be seen.


    "It''s coming at us! Why it didn''t steer away?"

 Death force

    They saw a balloon ship coming at them at fast speed. Their balloon ship trying to stirred away but it was too late. The ships crashed each other and the passengers thrown around, some falling from the ship.


    Evan manage to stabilize himself and helping Noel to stand up. From the other ship, zombies coming out and aboard their ship. They attacking the passengers and made them into one of them.


    Terror spread out in the ship. The passengers who realized the danger quickly fighting back. But two other undead coming, strong ones.


    "Lich and death knight?" Noel trembled. His legs couldn''t move as if they are glued to the floor.


    "Noel, please go to the pilot room." Evan said while taking out his sword.


    "What? Why?"


    "We need to move away this ship immediately and don''t let the undead approaching the pilot room."


    "What about you? I can''t let you here alone." Noel felt frustrated to leaving his friend alone.


    "Do not worry about me, i''m quite strong." Evan smiled but it didn''t even slightest ease Noel''s heart.


    "Just go! I will hold them off." Evan urged.


    Noel reluctant to leave him but decide to go to the pilot room. However, the death knight coming at him and fortunately Evan was fast enough to stop the death knight.


    "You''re mine." Evan said.


    Noel running around the corridor. It was chaos, zombies are everywhere. Noel took out his sword too and brace himself to cut down each zombie he met.


    "Raaghh!!"


    An abnormal zombie appeared. It has huge body and its skin went dark. One of its eyes turned black and its mouth drooled with corrosive saliva.


    Noel shivered once he encountered this zombie. He swings he sword but the zombie block it with its arm. The sword didn''t cut the arm and glued to it. Noel tried to pull it but it was hopeless.


    "Arrghh!" The zombie raise its fist, however...


    "Kneel." Two words. The abnormal zombie forced to kneel. The surrounding felt really heavy and a sword beheaded the zombie.


    "Seem like you''re a weak as usual." A mockery with familiar tone. Glein walks to him with his clothes soaked with blood, his right hand holding a sword made of silver and steel.


    "Get up idiot, do you want to become zombie''s fodder? This zombie is still alive." Glein pierced the zombie''s back to its heart twice and then kicked it to the ground.


    "So, where are you going?" Glein asked indifferently.


    "I''m going to the pilot room."


    "Ah, the zombie seems moving towards there too. They wanted to hijack this ship for sure."


    "How did you know?" Noel couldn''t believe that Glein could come up with such conclusion.


    "Tsk, i''m not an idiot like you." Glein sneered and says, "Come, i also heading there."


    Noel didn''t expect that he need to work together with the person he despised so much. But he had no other choice. He knew Glein''s capability and his magic, gravity control is amazing.


    They met several zombies but they were nothing in front of Glein. Once they are arrived in the pilot room, there are several people inside.


    "Can we move the ship?" Noel asked.


    "No, the crash back then resulted the left booster destroyed and those damn bastards already tied us up!" The pilot gritted his teeth.


    "Hm, Glein, can you take down the other ship with your gravity?"


    Glein glanced at the other ship and shook his head, "Impossible, that ship is protected by magic barrier stronger than my gravity could do. Even if i could, it will manage to free itself."


    "What should we do then?"


    Just right after Noel asked, the door got banged from outside. Glein slowly walks to the door and stab it. His sword penetrated the wooden door and hit one of the zombie''s head.


    "We will clear the zombie first and think of the other plan." Glein thrust his sword again to the door and killed another one.


    Meanwhile, Evan is struggling against the death knight with aid of zombies and lich. The zombies aren''t a problem but the lich is. It will attack Evan with lightning magic.


    But Evan didn''t intend to defeat the death knight. Once he confirmed there is no one around him. He relaxed himself and staring at the death knight.


    The death knight was about to attack Evan but it stopped and lowered its sword. The lich who saw this got confused and halted it''s magic.


    What Evan did is take control. He took over the death knight into his minion and gathered the information from what the death knight saw. But it wasn''t enough. Evan cut down down the death knight and absorbed its death force. He also absorbed other undead''s death forces.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Evan shifted his gaze to the lich and charging at it. The lich commanded the zombies to stop Evan but they are nothing after Evan froze them all and then he jumped to the other ship and clashed with the lich.


    On the other side.


    "The barrier shaken off!"


    "Perfect!" Glein smiled and using his gravity control to the other ship. The ship pressed to the ground and luckily they already cut all the tied.


    Back to Evan.


    He could felt the ship he on board with the lich is falling down at slow speed and suddenly a big fireball hit the ship and pushed the ship away.


    Evan gritted his teeth. The only fire magic user he knows is Noel. If not, who else?


    "Seem like they have abandoned you." The lich spoke in calm manner. It wasn''t frightened by Evan.


    "Seem so." Evan couldn''t help but agreed. This ship is falling and quite far away from the other ship which Noel on board.


    "But, it''s not like i will stop." Evan walks to the lich and staring its eyes. In instant, the lich got taken over and he collecting its memories.


    Evan was bit shocked. The lich was commanded by the new Undead king to take over balloon ships it met. The death knight he defeats is just recently created and lacking information. But the lich is full of information, and it has container full of life forces.


    Evan killed the lich and went to the pilot room. There is no one in this ship except him, all the undead already on other ship.


    "Let''s see." Evan didn''t have knowledge about controlling this ship. He just pushed random lever and it suddenly moving, but the ship suddenly trembling again. On the screen, it was displayed that the balloon got damaged and will lose half of the power to rise up. Evan quickly increasing the power to raise the ship up and moving it away.


    But it was helpless, without knowledge, he couldn''t do much. Evan staring at the other ship. Now, he is going to be separated with Noel. Such abrupt fate coming down, he wondering what will come next.


    The balloon ship falling down and entering the valley, the balloon part hits the wall of valley and damaging it. Yet, Evan stood steadily. With ease, he walks to the storage room and found many things. The balloon ship shaking heavily and it stopped.


    "Finally, stopped."


    Evan sighed and checking the items in the storage room. He found many things and especially expensive things. Inside a wooden case he found, he found many magic rings for storage items. He took the magic rings and took all the items in the storage room.


    "Huh? This...."


    Evan found a tube with condensed green substance and a black old book which is he familiar with.


    "Dead book, just how this book...."


    Evan remembered, before his day as Undead king over, he buried Dead book deep inside untouchable from anyone. But the book is now in front of him. He took the book without hesitation, he doesn''t want it to fall into someone else.


    "The tube.... just how many life forces condensed inside this?"


    Evan broke the tube and absorbed the life forces, his life force increased tremendously. Even though he didn''t cultivate life force, his life force already become thick thanks to absorbing which is taboo for people. Before obtained this life forces, he also obtained many death forces but don''t know how to use it yet.


    "To have so many life forces, what are they planning with this book?"


    Evan suspected that the new Undead king planning something really bad. The attack on Noguard, balloon ship hijacking, and the Death book. The possibility of the new Undead king planning to create a huge war is high but Evan doubt that the Undead king would do something so rashly since he only arises recently.


    Evan left the storage room and checked where he is now. The balloon ship was stuck between the valley and he could land on the ground by jump off.


    Upon landing on the ground, Evan felt something weird.


    "Barrier."


    He entered a barrier. Slowly by moving his hands around, he found an invisible wall and couldn''t get out of it.


    "Stronger than my current self."


    Comparing to the barrier, his strength might lower. The barrier might be 50% or more while himself is 10% or so.


    "The barrier must have the power supply, but where? Should i go ahead?"


    Looking through the only way to go, it was a dark place. But it''s doesn''t seem he have other way around. He also could see in the dark with magic.


    "Hm, this...."


    Each side of the walls, people''s faces were carved which makes the surrounding scary. Evan wondering what kind of place he is now, a place full of mystery and scariness.


    After walking few hundreds meter, Evan reaching the edge and a door leading to unknown place is open for him. Without hesitation, he entering the door and follows where it leads him.


    Once he arrived at a wide area, Evan widened his eyes. His current place is a graveyard. Countless sarcophaguses line up, Evan walks around them and found arts on the wall with a story on it.


    "War against the Undead king, countless people died yet my anger wasn''t satisfied. The Undead king no longer exist, i should be happy but now i''m not. Maybe because i''m not the one who killed him or maybe because it wasn''t enough to kill once."


    "Here lies countless comrades of mine. They sacrificed themselves for the future. I''m survived and alone, but i can''t give up. If Undead king will appear again, at least, i need a weapon to kill undead."


    "Disease spread out, it was called ''Nightmare aftermath''. Many people just died without reason."


    "I found the reason, excessive forces killed them. This forces... the opposite of life force. But people couldn''t control it, in fact, it killed them and yet undead doesn''t have this."


    "Undead produced this, once they dead, they released death force. Normally, death force wouldn''t be attached to people who can''t see or feels them but due to excessive number of them, it happened."


    "I''m once a painter and loves to write, now i devoted myself to find the weapon to kill undead easily. Death force, this opposite of life force is the weapon to kill undead."


    "Killing them with death force proven to make them unable to regenerate and completely die. However, it took quite numbers to kill death knight or high grade undead. How about the Undead king? I can''t imagine"


    Evan understood the arts, it tells the what the painter saw and the story tells about his search of use of death force. Finishing looking around, he found the most different sarcophagus amongst the others. He opens it and found a dead body with several items and the most thing that attracted him is a book on the dead body.


    The dead body still looks fresh as if the person inside was died few minutes ago. Evan took the book and read it.


    "The use of death force. This guy really trying to end the undead. However, using death force to kill undead requires certain number of them. Death knight can''t be killed by single death force alone. On top of that, the death knight that defeated by death force won''t give death force after defeated."


    "But it''s good, death force is like instant kill."


    Defeating undead is hard, taking example ghoul. The ghoul can''t be killed so easily unless find out where the main source inside it''s body. If the limbs were cut, it could still keep moving and high rank ghoul might be able to regenerate. By using death force, it could kill the ghoul without looking the main source and stops it regeneration, also it won''t be able to be revive once again.


    "Hahaha... it''s weird, i''m once Undead... well, with this i can just learn it and accumulate it just to prepare."


    Afterwards, he took other items and leave the tomb and proceed to another room. It''s a wide room just like the tomb, when walking to the central of the room. The room is shaking and the exit paths of the room closed down by iron doors.


    The room became darker and Evan could felt something sinister surrounding him. He took out his sword and watching his surroundings. With his vision, he could see dark substance formed a humanoid form. Then, skeletons appearing out of nowhere and coming towards him.


    Evan slowly sweep his sword and chilling aura spread out. It froze the skeletons'' bones and made them unable to move. Yet, it doesn''t have any effect against the dark substance.


    "What?"


    Nerves, muscles and meats appearing on the skeletons then forming human beings. Evan''s effect disappears from them and they start moving again.


    "That''s tricky, it''s not normal anymore."


    He never saw an undead forming its own body out of nowhere. It¡¯s as if they are immortals. Unkillable and keep forming their parts.


    Evan casted ice arrows and shot them towards the formed beings, the arrows blow their necks and splitting the heads with the bodies.


    The bodies stood without heads, yet they still moving and another head appeared.


    "This is crazy."


    Evan freeze them and crush them apart, yet, few seconds later they formed themselves again.


    "This is not undead anymore but immortals... yet, they seem didn''t have any intelligent? Perhaps they need time... but i can''t do that, i need to escape this place."


    Evan mumbled, he is in dire situation, unkillable enemies and unknown dark substance. Even if he went rampage, there is no insurance for him to defeat them all completely.


    "Death force.... will it work?"


    The only thing he thought was that. He wondering if he could kill living being too with death force and also immortals. He has many death forces now, the only thing he need to do is using them.


    Evan opened the book and read it while walking away from the immortals. Several minutes later after understanding the basic parts. Evan closed the book and store inside his ring, he readily his sword and dashing at the immortals.


    Slowly, his sword clouded by sinister and dark force. He swings the sword to the immortal and cut its body into two. Evan step back and watching the immortal which he just slashed.


    No reaction, the immortal didn''t form another body.


    "So it''s works. What is immortal actually? The man who found the use of death force said death force could be used to kill undead, but it also works with immortal?"


    Evan checked his death force, it was reduced. Although he has plenty, he needs to conserve it. Evan begin his fight, the immortals didn''t move fast, they are slow and unable to react really well. In few seconds, he already defeated them all. Only the dark substance is left.


    The dark substance released death forces and Evan absorbing them. After all death forces absorbed, more immortals appear. Evan cut one down but it got regenerate.


    "Stronger than before, will it keep getting stronger?"


    Twice won''t affect them, till five slashes that they died. Once all of them died, the dark substance releasing death forces.


    Then a third wave coming, the immortals move faster than before and start attacking. However, they will die in five slashes. The fourth wave, they are reacted faster and harder to kill.


    It keeps continues over tenth wave and Evan keep absorbing death forces from the dark substance while fighting the immortals. He doesn''t know how long he have to keep fighting and he couldn''t even care about it as the immortals keep becoming stronger than before.

 Noel meets Clara

    Noel arrived at neutral zone, precisely in Voru city where the academy located. He is staying in an inn, alone and crying.


    "Ughhh...."


    Losing Evan on the balloon ship made him crying all the time. To him, Evan is a good friend, losing him is a great loss. Nobody knows how did Evan end up gone, although it was already reported that their balloon ship got attacked and Union still on investigation, he didn''t receive any news about Evan.


    At one day, he stopped crying. With meek face and red eyes, he is staring at the mirror.


    "I''m quite weak huh."


    He smiled but that smile contains anger towards himself.


    "To not be able to protect your friend. You''re weak! Damn it! Just why?!"


    Losing Evan made him thinking that he is really weak. He also comparing himself with Evan, their strength differs too much.


    "I have to get stronger but i...."


    He isn''t very talented. Compared to Evan, he is inferior, the reason he becomes strong because he received early education and financial that support him. But those things won''t be able to make him stronger completely.


    "No, i need to work harder! Harder than anyone else! There is still time before the exam!"


    With new resolution, Noel leave the inn for the first time. To get stronger faster, he needs experience. He needs to fight against monsters and hone himself while fighting them.


    Leaving Voru city, he entering the sixth layer of neutral zone. Although neutral zone is surrounded by walls, most of them lands weren''t explored and monsters still lurking around.


    Noel''s first destination is Cagura field. Mostly habituated by wild animals and if going to the forest, there migt be monsters too. But, when he arrives there, he doesn''t find many wild animals and mostly they are alone. Unconsciously, he going deeper into the forest.


    But, when he realized his situation, it was too late.


    "Ooh no."


    Several kobolds appearing around him with hungry looks. Noel prepared his sword and ready to use his magic. He is at disadvantage in terms of number, on other hand, he is using fire magic which will burn the tree.


    "Raaahh!"This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    A kobold charging at with a rusty spear. Noel step in towards the kobold and away the spear then stabs the kobold''s chest, quickly he pulls out his sword and dashing towards the second kobold. There are five kobolds and one down.


    The second kobold raised its shield in alert and suddenly, the third kobold charging at Noel with huge sword. Without choice, Noel retreating away but behind him appears fourth kobold holds a sword and swings it towards Noel.


    "Ugh!"


    Noel changed his trajectory but got slashed by the fourth kobold on his left shoulder.


    "Careless will kill you..."


    Noel muttered with pained expression. He is trained but never had an injury before. He never fought with monsters before and yet he is quite brave or foolish to step in alone.


    The third kobold charging and swings its huge sword vertically. Noel stepping to the side and forward, he cuts the kobold''s right arm and slash the kobold''s body then stepping back.


    "Fuuh..."


    Noel exhaled, the kobolds still not affected by their people''s death. Clearly, the kobolds still thinking they have chance of win the fight. Second kobold steadily approaching him with the fourth and fifth kobolds behind it.


    Noel slowly stepping away and then retreating with the kobolds chasing him. He running to the open filed and chanting a magic. Once he at open field, he turned his body and spoke.


    "Homing flames!"


    Three flames shot from his hand and targeting the kobolds. Two of the kobolds got burned, only the second kobold survived with its shield.


    Not giving a chance to breath from fire magic, Noel dashing towards the second kobold and sliding down with his sword cuts the kobold''s leg. The kobold fell down and trying to get up, sadly, Noel finish it up.


    "Haa... finally done."


    He sighed and taking out a healing balm, a bottle of water, and a bandage. Taking off his shirt, he pours the water on his injured shoulder and put the balm on the wound. It is painful, but he had to do it and then wrap his shoulder.


    Finished treating his wound, he stood and want to go home but he meets someone unexpected.


    "Hm? You...."


    Noel looks shocked. In front of her, a girl with red hair and eyes stood with two men behind her. She looks calm and alert against Noel.


    "Clara Gulstrein? The black flame possessor?"


    "......."


    "Ah, please don''t be alert!" Noel bowed and continues, "I''m Noel Rishawd from Noguard kingdom. I''m not someone suspicious and...."


    He doesn''t know what to say anymore aside that.


    "You used fire magic?"


    She spoke which makes Noel panicked and stood firmly like an idiot.


    "Y-yes!"


    "What''s with your attitude?" Clara frowned and walks closer to him.


    "N-no, but why did- no, did you saw me?"


    "Yes i did, but, here alone. Are you foolish or what? Without protective gear and judging by you coming out from the forest and casted magic, you afraid to burn the trees."


    "Yes..."


    "Fire mage afraid of burning? Are you able to control your fire or not?"


    Noel didn''t understand what she means, he wanted to ask but Clara already sighed and speaks, "I don''t know why i tell stranger but watch this."


    A flame appeared on her hand, a bright red flame suddenly soared to the sky like flying dragon. Once it high enough, the flame disperses into five and curved to falling down. The flames then coming and encircling Clara like dancing around her.


    Noel was astonished. He now understands what she means by able to control fire or not.


    "If you can control fire, you don''t have to-"


    "Teach me!"


    Noel bow down in front of her, his reaction makes Clara shocked and don''t know what to do.


    "Teach me to control fire!"


    "Huh? Why would i teach you?" She spoke with displease. She only met him today and total stranger, yet Noel asked her to teach him.


    "I might be rude but i need to get stronger! I don''t want to become weak, i want to become stronger!"


    His voice resounded and it''s sincere from his heart. If he could control fire, he can become stronger, at least a bit stronger and that is fine for him.


    "Why do you want to become stronger? Why do you wish to become strong so badly that you discarding your pride?" Clara asked in curious.


    "That''s.... that''s because i lost my friend, even though we''re not known each other for a long time. I felt our bonds are strong! Losing him made me receive a great blow, because of me being weak, if i had power and stand by his side, none of this would happen!"


    He shouted while crying, Clara was silent and don''t know how to answer. If Evan saw this, he will laugh at him, not that he ridicules him. But the reason of Evan disappearance because of Noel himself and not because he is weak.


    "Stand up." Clara spoke coldly.


    "Do not lower your head, where is your pride? If you want to become stronger, do not lower your head and keep your pride together."


    Clara somehow disgusted by Noel''s action. She doesn''t pity him about losing his friend, both of them total strangers but she somehow can''t just walk away.


    "I''ll teach you to control fire, but that''s all."


    "Thank you!"


    Noel bowing to her in respectful manner. Thus, his day with Clara begin.

 Second notice of revival

    Evan''s side.


    In the darkness, Evan fought countless immortals. Wounds covered his body and the immortals moving like wild beasts. Ten slashes aren''t enough to kill one, he doesn''t even remember just how many immortals he had been slain and how many days have passed.


    But thanks to continuous fight, he manages to control his death force more efficient and evolve a way to use with other means.


    "Ha!"


    Evan swings down his sword and long death force formed and cut down an immortal. The death force then spread like whips and slashed other immortals. Another immortal coming at him from above, Evan dodged and punched the immortal right one the stomach. His punch contained massive amount of death forces and sent the immortal flying.


    The more he fighting, the more his instinct polished and becoming stronger physically. Intense fight without stop didn''t bother his stamina at all, his stamina is endless and he could use his magic to boost himself. But what bothering him that how long do he have to continue fighting?


    After he defeated final immortal, Evan couldn''t relax a bit. Every time a wave ended, he will absorb death forces from the dark substance and fight again against immortals. He wouldn''t dare to slack off. He expecting that it would be endless wave.


    But his expectation went off. The room brighten and the dark substance dispersed.


    "It''s finished?"


    "Indeed."


    Domineering voice resounded inside the room but he didn''t know the source.


    "I thought you are some kind of intruder. But to think you reached this kind of level and comprehending the use of death force by yourself. You''re very talented."


    "Who are you?"


    "I''m the guardian of this place. My master, the one who found the way to use death force tasked me to guard this place and guide someone who enter this place in appropriate manner."


    "I''m sorry, i got an accident before."


    "That''s fine."


    The voice laughed in good mood.


    "You''re clearly beyond my expectation, those fake immortals even not your match."


    "Fake immortals?"


    "Yes, master had created many fake immortals to replicate the amazing power of Undead king and transcending beings."


    "Transcending being?"


    "Yes, do you know that our world is only the beginning? We are the weakest and there are many transcending beings out there, but there is a rule that they mustn¡¯t interfere with our world."


    Evan didn''t expect to get information like this. If they are the weakest, then, how strong the transcending being is?


    "Since you possessed good ability, you shall be bestowed with master''s heritage."


    Dark substance appear and shrouded him. In instant, Evan appeared at different place.


    He stood on the snowy ground, ruined pillars and walls, light entering from the holes on the ceiling. A carve of woman and an altar in front of Evan covered with snow, the place looks ancient as if it was untouched by people for long time.


    "Shrine of Alcausa, untouched and forgotten after Undead king reign. This place is an accursed place where many people sacrificed for Alcausa, the woman of magic or to be exact, the woman of wicked. People blinded by her words and proclaimed herself as goddess but she is just a mortal!"


    The woman carved on the wall, she is Alcausa Deinzen. Priest of Shalion and the most powerful figure back in the day. Her words gain people''s hearts and she led the most powerful zealot back then. Sacrificing her own followers and people who opposed her, she obtained immeasurable power and then disappear without trace.


    "My master, Rigard Estelon. On his journey to obtain more knowledge about death force. He arrived here, he didn''t expect to meet Alcausa''s avatar and spoke with her. His wrath emerged and they clashed each other. Master was weaker than Alcausa''s avatar, but he manages to inflict a wound against Alcausa''s avatar."


    "Is this related to immortal?" Evan spoke.


    "Yes, Alcausa''s avatar is half-immortal. But master wounded her with death force. Thus, he gained a knowledge that death force could wound or even kill immortal. Unfortunately, due to his injuries because his fight with Alcausa, his life is short and with one hope, he created the test of immortals."


    "Transcending beings can''t interfere, so how she got here back then?"


    "That is, i don''t know......"


    Evan in thought for a moment but couldn''t find a reason why Alcausa could return. Back then, 1000 years ago. Evan met Alcausa when she was a human. Only by glance, Evan truly not wish to come closer with Alcausa no matter what.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    "Then, why i''m here?"


    "To obtain master''s heritage, you need to pass a final test."


    "Another test? What kind of test?"


    In instant, his surrounding changed into snowy land with snow falling rapidly. Then, thunderous shouts coming from behind him. Countless men running on the snowy land towards what in front of Evan. A familiar castle and never he forgets that in this snowy land, countless lives will be sacrificed.


    Countless undead rising from the ground and charging at the men, this is the fight between undead and the people. A bloody battle which determine survival of this world. A battle because of one selfish undead.


    "My master participated in this war, one of lucky survivor from this war but his hatred towards undead never cease to fade. This is the terror of undead from my master''s memories."


    The war was fierce and many fell, but, as soon as the news of Undead king is defeated. People cheered happily and nightmare winter disappear.


    A man, stood alone with unhappy face. Despite they won the war, the sacrifice is huge and that man lost people he loved.


    Obviously, this man is Rigard Estelon. Hatred filled his eyes and upon returning to his homeland, nightmare aftermath began to spread. Driven by his hatred, he hunts down every single undead like a madman and by chance of luck he encountered death force and learn how to use it.


    That man met a dwarf who constructed a tomb for the fallen heroes of war. He helped the dwarf and also made the tomb as a trial. Not long after that, he encountered a spirit which is became his familiar. The spirit has humanoid figure.


    "That was me." The voice spoke in reminiscent.


    Then the surrounding changed to Shrine of Alcausa. There, Rigard encountered Alcausa. A woman with long orange hair, white skin just like snow, domineering amber eyes and alluring body. She is just like a vicious beautiful snake.


    "You- how did you-"


    Rigard showing an expression of anger towards Alcausa. But she didn''t care at all.


    "To think i would met someone here. Well, what happened to this world?"


    "Why would i answer you?"


    Rigard obviously had hatred towards her.


    "You don''t know your place, aren¡¯t you? If weren''t for me unable to come here, i would kill you for sacrificial."


    "What? You are here, what do you mean?"


    "Obviously lower being like you wouldn''t understand. Do you think the sacrifices i made just for lunatic? Those are for me to transcended! But who would have though i was restricted." Alcausa showing displease and hatred in her eyes.


    "Transcended? People died just for your own selfishness?! You''re absolutely lunatic!"


    Alcausa just shrugged her shoulders and doesn''t care at all about him.


    "Now, care to tell what happened to this world?"


    "What''s the exchange?"


    "Of course i''ll spare your life. Do you know, it is really easy to kill you?"


    Rigard shivered once Alcausa exerted her sinister aura.


    "The Undead king is gone."


    "Who is the Undead king?"


    Alcausa never once met Undead king, she transcended before Undead king appear. Rigard explained about the Undead king to Alcausa.


    Her face was stiff and became ugly upon hearing the war.


    "The Undead king.... he sacrificed lot more than me."


    Rigard was upset after heard that. He couldn''t believe that she treated those people as mere sacrifices but then again, he is a fool to think that Alcausa have heart to empathy.


    "But he is defeated? Really? Did you have the body?"


    "No."


    "Hm, suspicious. Well, whatever. Since i came here, i don''t want going back for nothing."


    In instant, her eyes flashed and she moved at high speed towards Rigard. He was shocked by her speed and quickly retreating with enhancement magic. However, Alcausa shot a violet light towards him and a hole appeared on his left shoulder.


    "Don''t think that you can escape."


    She smiled beautifully but it is very vicious.


    "I won''t die! Not this far!"


    He unsheathed his sword, Rigard is a knight. He is not skilled in magic except in enhancement only. But, Rigard isn''t normal knight, he is the best knight and very skilled in sword. Yet, in front of Alcausa, he is nothing at all.


    His attacks were deflected and instead he got injured. No matter how hard he did, she is beyond him now.


    "Give up, right.... and i will give you swift death."


    "Dream on!"


    Rigard shouted and his body covered by death force. With his last power, he is charging towards Alcausa and swings down his sword. She snorted and launched a violet light ball shaped towards him, however, the light was cut down and a slash of death force coming towards her.


    Without time to react due to shock, his attack succeed hits her.


    "Aaaah!!"


    She screamed in agony.


    "What is this?!"


    The death force which hits her on her chest spread out as if eating her body.


    "My avatar?! How could a lower being like you-¡°


    Before finished her words, she was swallowed by the death force and violet light shot out and a sinister crystal formed after the death force swallowed her.


    "She escaped unfortunately, her avatar manages to keep the soul away."


    The voice became depressed, then they returned to the present shrine.


    "Now, the test is embracing death force?"


    Evan furrowed in confusion. He doesn''t understand what is embracing means on this term.


    "Soon, you will know."


    Death force emerged around him and surrounding him. He tried to absorb it but it was futile. Soon when his body covered wholly, he felt mixed feelings.


    The death force represents the emotions of people who death. Their last moment before dying are appearing and overflowing his mind. Death force which he absorbed also giving the visions and forcing Evan to deep mental state.


    ''Is this embracing death force?''


    Evan could only watch every last moments of different people. He couldn''t do anything about them. Embracing death force is embracing the death of people. Different emotions mixed, anger, happiness, sadness, all of them expressed before death. There are people unwilling to die, people who accepted death, people who feared death, and people who struggle to keep living despite death is their end. People who keep struggle despite death is their adversary, once they died, death force they produced are bigger than others. Will of life, will to keep living is what makes death force stronger.


    Although the death force can only be obtained after slain an undead, it was undeniable that the death force once come from living being. When living being slain, life force could be absorbed, when undead slain, death force could be absorbed. Life force and death force is similar to each other; they possess great deal of living and dead.


    ''If life force is the power of living then death force is power to avoid death. Eventually, they are heading to one meaning only. To keep alive.''


    ''Eternal life, eternal death. Death will seek life and life will seek death. Endless cycle.''


    Evan opened his eyes after long understanding towards death force. He opens his arms widely and accept the death force surging inside him.


    Human wouldn''t be able tolerate excessive death force. No living being could do so. The death force devouring life force but the life force did the same. Two forces struggle each other inside him. He could felt unbelievable pain as if he is dying countless time and being born again.


    Outside of view, Rigard''s familiar was shocked. He didn''t believe that Evan would let the death force entering him. What he wanted that Evan embrace the death force as the weapon to end undead.


    The sky turned darker and the familiar could sense something is wrong. He looking towards other sky and it also dark. A bad omen has come, he thought.


    While from another place. Noel under Clara''s teaching noticed the sky turned dark. He couldn''t help but feels something is wrong too.


    Not just him, Clara secretly worried. Not just them, people around the world felt it too. The bad omen and something is going to happen, something that they do not wish to be happen.


    Yet, it come unexpected.


    Snow falling hard like storm. It''s not winter and yet it''s snowing. It''s still spring and it''s snowing.


    Many people confused but many other people recognized this sign.


    "Oh my...."


    An elderly man wearing white robe, stood on the top of Union tower. His eyes shown fear and alertness, his body trembling and couldn''t move.


    "Elder Waiz, this snow..."


    A woman with white robe spoke. There are other three people behind her too. They have worried and scared expression.


    "Undead king.... the old Undead king."


    He trembled as he spoke those words. For him, for them, who couldn''t forget the legend of Undead king. The legend of nightmare winter who devoured countless souls.


    At other side, Carbiz kingdom.


    A young man with messy hair sinisterly smiled as he watching the snow falling down. He is Goru who stood in front of his private house.


    "Ah, truly.... this is really unexpected." He laughed afterwards and says, "Master! You finally come! Hahaha! I will show you what you can''t see!"


    With sinister laughter, he turned his body and entered his house.


    Somewhere, near Alainstein.


    "Master, snow has falling. This is..."


    A man with pointy ears and colorful suit knelt in front of the new Undead king.


    "I know." The Undead king spoke without worry.


    "The old king has arisen. It was our fault to mistaken for his downfall long ago."


    "Master, we could-"


    "Forget it. None of us are his rival. The one who can cast legend of nightmare is something beyond my reach for now."


    The pointy ears man had worried face. He is the new Undead king''s servant. He obviously worried that the old is coming back and now there are two kings. In history, there is never two Undead kings. He is supporting his master but also afraid of the old Undead king power.


    "But do not fret, the old Undead king is merciless too. We could share same idealism."


    Although the Undead king spoke those words. It wasn''t something assuring at all, because the old Undead king is merciless that he might doesn''t care about the new Undead king.


    The new Undead king watching the snow falling down. His power isn''t enough to cast such massive magic and destructive one. If he could, he would already trample this land.


    The snow he watching suddenly stopped falling down. The sky become clearer but there is no one who had joy about this. If a winter could happen today, it could happen again and if the winter is long lasting, then the 1000 years ago incident will repeat itself.

 Call me Theo

    Evan opened his eyes, his power surging up with endless power. Now, he obtained 50% of his power but as exchange of it, his life force and death force left to miniscule. On top of that, his body need to adapt due to sudden power rising.


    "You.... Undead king!"


    Rigard''s familiar spoke in anger, a man suddenly appeared in front of Evan with strong wind. However, just by sweep of hand, Evan ceased the wind blowing at him.


    "I''m sorry, but i''m never lying to you." Evan spoke with indifferent face.


    "Tell me! Why did you alive?!" The familiar roared in anger. His body is made of wind and very strong, but he knows that he is not a match for Evan.


    "To begin with, i''m already dead? I wasn''t defeated and born to this world once again."


    "Reincarnation?! How could an undead like you- an impure and sinister being like you to reincarnated?!"


    Evan shrugged his shoulders. He also wanted to know but it doesn''t reach his main curiosity.


    "Very well, since i can''t let others know i''m an Undead king..."


    Evan turned quiet and he glanced at the familiar. At once, the familiar trying to flew and attacking Evan to distract him. However, cold aura spread out and freezing the familiar. Despite able to move, but the cold inflict him great pain.


    "To think i would become so heartless, forgive me."


    Evan flicked his fingers and at once the familiar disappeared to cold wind. Evan sighed, to be truth. His body is extremely weak. Low life force made him extremely weak and vulnerable, now he has to rely on his magic.


    He looking from afar and noticed snow was falling down at other places. He knew that this clearly related to him and everyone must be aware of him. If by regaining his power, it will alert others. He needs to raise his power too; he can''t rely on himself alone.


    "Should i gather back my servants?"


    His loyal servants, he met Romue before. Although she is loyal to him, it is unknown for the others. Now, he is in human form, the master they serve is an undead.


    "Should i going back to Underworld?"


    Regain his place in Underworld. It will be long and scary journey. If he could obtain the throne in there, he could lead an army of undead to assure his standing point.


    ''Ah, my life won''t be easy anymore.'' He smiled bitterly. He wants life that far away from this world''s destiny. Living like normal person, a bodyguard for Noel is good enough for him. But, he once again thrown into the fire.


    Suddenly, Evan remembered about Rigard''s heritage.


    "Where is his heritage? It can''t be since i killed his familiar..."


    He felt regret, he would like to obtain the heritage. Evan went leaving the shrine which is located on top of a mountain. He changed his clothes and wear robe with a cloth to mask himself.


    "I shouldn''t use ice magic. What magic is good?"


    Changing his magic would avoid him of suspicion. Although no one will suspect Undead king as a human, he can''t help but to feel alert and prepare for any possibilities. Ice magic is an icon of Undead king after all and to be truth, he is not just skilled in ice magic but other magic too.


    Once going down from the mountain, the sky is orange. He didn''t know how much time has passed and can''t help but to think about Noel who is alone.


    "I''m failure as a bodyguard. Maybe that job doesn''t suit me at all."


    "Should i go to farming again or i return to meet Noel once again?"


    He could choice to make his own living somewhere in the wilderness without anyone care about him. That might be the best idea for him if he wanted to leave the trouble.


    He walking aimlessly without guide, but he is not in hurry at all. After walks miles away from the mountain, he encountered fork road. Left or right, he doesn''t know which road is perfect for him to go.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    As he about to go to the right road, a carriage coming from the left. Evan stopped and waving his hand. A man is riding the carriage; this man is an elf.


    The carriage stopped near Evan.


    "Hello traveler, i''m Orin, a merchant." The elf greeted him. As expected from the elf, Orin is handsome man and who knows his age right now.


    "Hello, i''m Evan. I''m traveling alone and at lost. Would sir Orin be so kind to let me ride on your carriage?"


    Orin showing slight suspicious. A merchant must aware of his situation and suspicious towards strangers who appears out of nowhere.


    "I''m sorry, but i don''t trust someone easily. But, if you want to buy something, it''s fine."


    "Is that so, then do you have a map?"


    "Sure? Which quality of map do you wish?"


    "Good one."


    Orin nodded and searching through his carriage to find the map. He then gives a piece of big paper. The paper showing a map of Tegged Kingdom.


    "This is our location."


    Orin pointed on the north of Tegged. There is Clagga mountain which where the shrine of Alcausa located. The left road will lead him to Acion village while the right road will lead him to Acion town.


    "How much is it?"


    "25 silver."


    Evan took out the money and pay it. Orin showing a gleeful smile and bowing to him.


    "Anything else?" He asked with anticipation.


    "Right, i''m curious. How was the situation after the snow?"


    Orin frowned and says, "The situation si quite terrible. Kings will hold a meeting at Union tower and civil wars ceased for now. They will also discuss... umm... i forgot."


    "Oh, this is for you."


    Evan put a silver coin and instant Orin smiled then speaks again. Evan already familiar with this kind of person who lust for money.


    "Possibly of old Undead king appear and new Undead king which will makes two kings. Everyone is very worried that these two kings might work together. On top of that, several balloon ships were gone too and this is a huge bad news to everyone and um..."


    Another coin.


    "I heard that Undead is gathering and beginning to move at neutral zone. Who knows if it is the truth or not."


    "Thank you, now, have a safe journey Sir Orin."


    "You too Sir Evan, glad to have business with you."


    After the carriage leaving to the right road. Evan checking himself. His life force isn''t increasing at all and the strange thing is that he seems fine. Life force could disturb one life, if life force were depleted, they could pass out or maybe endanger their lives. But Evan looks fine without worry.


    "I should kill several people to gain life force." He talks as if it was nothing at all. But once he said that, he bit his lips.


    "I''m still heartless."


    If he was truly an undead, he wouldn''t have second thought. But, with emotions inside him, he is considerate with his actions towards others. To get back his life force, he must kill people, that is a selfish wish. Just like his wish to become a human again.


    "I can''t waver, to become stronger. I mustn¡¯t waver."


    Evan tried to resolute himself. Killing people, now, he need to bad people only. Evan spread out his magic vision. With half of his power returning, a single kingdom wouldn''t be a problem of himself.


    After he got several places where bandits or thieves hiding themselves, he slowly floating to the sky. Since the beginning, he could fly, but he chooses to walk. It is one of his way to enjoy his life.


    At fast speed, he rushing to the nearest place. The first place located near a small where there is a house. There are several people staying here. The reason Evan knew that they are bad people because of his magic vision is not ordinary, it also detects the truth of heart.


    From above, Evan shot ''Wind cutters'' towards them and in instant they are beheaded. He slowly descending and absorbing the life forces.


    "Wake up."


    The beheaded men rose from the death by Evan''s order.


    "Kill people inside the house, leave no one remain."


    The beheaded undead moving quickly and start the action. Evan''s undead are far stronger than normal undead. Aside absolute obedience, they are far stronger and quite resistant towards holy and light magic.


    Once all the people inside the house died, he took all the life forces, not forgetting death force too. He made them all to undead and killed them. Now, he is farming quite well.


    Evan flew again towards the second location. This time, they are located inside a wilderness. Bandits whom staying inside a cave and they also held hostages.


    Once again, same tactic, he killed some of them and made them as undead. After killed all the bandits, he proceeds to the depth of the cave where the hostages were taken.


    Three people, two girls and a boy. They have wounds anywhere and seems like one of the girls lost her will. Evan took out clothes inside of their mouth and staring at the boy.


    "T-thank you for saving us." The boy looking at Evan with frighten expression.


    "Speak, who are you?"


    "I-i''m Perry! Perry Housten! This is my sister, Najien Housten and this girl..."


    Perry has small body, he may be around ten years old and due to many wounds, his appearance looks unsightly. As for Najie, she is looks hostile, her dirty jade hair is disorganized cuts. She seems better than the other girl.


    Evan release them. The siblings quickly stood but the lost girl still sits down unmoving.


    "Care to tell?" Evan asked to the siblings.


    "We...." Najie wanted to spoke but she turned away and almost puked.


    "Mister...that''s..." Perry signaling Evan to lower himself for him to whisper.


    "They were.... by the bandit."


    Evan quickly understood. It was good enough that Najie still maintain her will but she also got traumatized. As for the lost girl, she is completely broken.


    "She is earlier than us and perhaps suffer more than us."


    Evan was slightly astonished; this Perry is quite good explaining the situation which is looks like as the youngest.


    "You guys are nobles, right?" Evan spoke.


    "Yes, i might be fine but sister..."


    Najie is a girl, losing her Chasity is more than a big trouble. Her life as noble might not become easy and full of thorns. She might get depressed due to be pressed by others.


    Evan went to the lost girl and kneeling in front of her. Her black eyes didn''t even move slightest when Evan in front of her. He touching her cheek and in instant she is shivered.


    ''Ah, physical trauma.''


    "Sleep."


    Evan casted ''Sleep'' and she instantly sleeping. Looking at the scene, the siblings couldn''t help but curious for what will Evan do.


    "None of you recognize her?"


    The siblings shook their head. Evan sighed, he can''t leave this girl alone. He staring at her and touch her forehead.


    By using ''Mind read'', he entering her memories.


    Erona, fourteen years old. Born as a daemon, however said to be defective due to there is no horn on her head. She also blind and couldn''t do much, yet, her parents love her. At certain time, their she was kidnapped by someone and sold as a slave. But the slave carriage was attacked and she was brought her. Most of the slaves were taken by a mage who working together with the bandits and few of the slaves decide to commit suicide and thus left her alone.


    ''Pity...''


    Evan sighed, this girl''s life is very pitiful. Evan could help her, but he needs her agreement.


    "You two, where is your home?"


    "Acion town." Perry answered.


    "Good, i''ll bring you two to go home."


    Perry had joyous expressed but it turned to sour when he remembered about his sister. Najie had stiff expression and doesn''t know how to feel happy or not.


    "Heal."


    Evan cured all their wounds which makes more shocked. They wanted to know if the person in front of them is an Arch mage. He also gave them robes to cover their bodies, though it was oversized for Perry.


    "Thank you." Perry and Najie bowed in gratefulness.


    "But what about the bandits?" Perry asked. It was obvious answer but he still wanted to know what happened to them.


    "Dead."


    At this time, Evan ordered his undead to kill each other and absorb their death force. Evan carry the lost girl and then walks out followed by the siblings.


    "Um, mister..."


    "Call me.... right, Theo."

 Granting power

    With masked face and he made a fake name. The siblings might tell the story about himself and he believes that there are many people has name of ''Evan''. But just for precautious, he is using fake name for now.


    "Mister Theo, the bandits have treasure. It sure unfortunate if we just leave them be."


    Evan stopped and lie down to the lost girl on the tree.


    "Najie, take care of her for a moment and use this." Evan took out a sword and give towards her. Surprisingly, once she holds the sword, she swings it as if she is an experienced swordsman.


    "Thank you." Najie spoke with smile, her beauty really showing off once all the wounds gone.


    "Perry, lead me."


    "Yes!"


    Once they entering the cave, Perry giggling and speaks, "Najie is dreaming to become a knight but father forbid her. Yet, she is secretly training. She is very hot-headed."


    "You seems know your sister really well."


    "I do, she is not a lady from noble at all. Even though she is a beauty and gracious, she is very hot-headed and hard to be told." He spoke in confident which makes Evan speechless.


    "You''re young but talk like an adult."


    "Of course! Housten''s man is more mature than anyone else!" With proud he said that and somewhat funny for Evan.


    "To be honest, i don''t know where is the treasure. But the bandits clearly have it."


    "Do not worry, i handle it."


    Evan walks to the dead end of the cave and pushed. A rectangular part got pushed by Evan and sound of mechanism can be heard. A door opened on the wall.


    "How did you know?" Perry spoke in excitement.


    "Magic."


    He used wind magic to sweep through the area to feel something odd. He eventually found the button and the secret room. Two of them entering the room and it''s full of treasure.


    "Mister Theo can take all of them."


    "You sure?"


    "Yes! Wealth doesn''t mean much." Perry showing indifferent face, clearly not showing any interest towards the treasure.


    Evan also doesn''t show any interest with the treasure but just in case, he might find something good. As he storing the wealth inside his storage, he found something good.


    Bracelet of Thorn. This bracelet was made pair with Bracelet of Rose, but it was separated. The bracelet is magical item which act as defense. If the opponent attacking, it could activate thorns to attack the opponent right away.


    This bracelet, Evan remembered it was wore by someone he really close with long ago. After stored all of them, Evan returning to Najie and the lost girl but found someone else there.


    "Perry, hide."


    Perry flinched and slowing his footsteps. As he Evan left the cave, he came into contact with the new arrived person.


    This person has seven lightning bolts flying above him and they are directed towards Najie. That man noticed Evan and changed the bolts direction.


    "Where are they?"


    "They? Bandits? Dead."


    The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Evan answered casually and that man clicked his tongue. He shoots the bolts towards him, Perry and Najie couldn''t be alarmed due to the speed of the bolts. But, for Evan it was nothing at all.


    "Gather, shoot."


    Two words, the lightning bolts gathered into one before Evan and shot back towards the man. That man flinched and reacted by shoot another bolt.


    "Devour, neutralize."


    Evan''s bolt devoured his bolt and once it hits that man, all his nerves got neutralized and he only able to fall down. That man has resistance against lightning but it was too weak. Evan walks closer to him and glanced at Najie.


    "Who is he?"


    "I-i don''t know?"


    "Right..."


    Evan knelt down and casted ''Mind reading'' to him. This man is a mage who helped the bandits and took most of the slaves. His intent to come here is to get the bandits to attack a caravan. But after saw Najie and the lost girl outside, he became suspicious and almost intend to kill Najie if Evan had not coming out.


    Evan created small lightning bolt on his finger and press it to that man''s head. It shut down the brain in instant.


    "That should be enough." Evan spoke and turned the man''s body. He took his belongings and then start carrying the lost girl.


    "Is he dead?" Perry asked.


    "Yes."


    "Amazing! You used healing magic and lightning magic! What are you Mister Theo?" He is showing an excitement even though knowing that Evan has killed someone. It made Evan wondering if Perry''s mental is very strong.


    "Just a wild mage."


    "Really?"


    "Mhm..."


    After few miles walking, they stopped for a rest. But, Perry and Najie want to keep going. They don''t exhaust at all, but Evan insisted to rest.


    "Can you two use a bow?"


    "I can!" Perry raised his hand. Evan took out a bow and several arrows inside a quiver and give it to Perry.


    "Hunt animal for food, can you guys, do it?"


    "Yeah, we could!"


    "Okay then."


    Evan really became amazed with Perry. It might be because the world has changed or maybe he once hunted an animal before. Yet, he is quite young and brave. While the siblings going hunting. Evan woke up the lost girl.


    "?!"


    She shivered and tried to get away in instant but Evan quickly grabs her and use magic to calm her down.


    "Relax.... you''re safe."


    The lost girl still in panic and high alert. No matter what good words entering her ears, she would respond it in fear. He doesn''t have choice but to let her calm down slowly.


    "I''m Theo, i''m here to help."


    "Help?"


    Even the word ''help'' sounds amazing and could ease someone. Erona is thinking different, one of the bandits also utter that word too and made her disbelief that word.


    "Erona is your name, right?"


    Erona was flinched but slowly nodded.


    Evan sighed for a moment. To be honest, he isn''t a person that could help traumatized people. He isn''t some kind of savior and the only way he can act maybe by becoming a demon.


    "Do you wish to see?"


    His tone changed into an invitation of demon.


    "Do you wish for power?"


    "A power that helps you to stand. A power that could crush what you hate."


    To a desperate person and a person who lost their will of living. Invitation of demon is alluring, a power to makes them stand above and couldn''t be trampled anymore. Lust for power, hatred for being weak.


    "If you wish so, come accept me."


    "A-accept?"


    "Accept the power that i''ll give to you." Evan touched her forehead and inserted a part of his memory regarding magic vision.


    "Ah..."


    Once the memory entered her, Evan stimulate mana inside her and awoken her power. With Evan''s memory, she could grasp how to use magic vision even though it isn''t that amazing.


    "This."


    "A vision." Evan muttered towards Erona who looking around. She is blind, but with magic vision, she could see her surrounding through magic she releases around her.


    "If you accept my power, you can enjoy this. But... if not..."


    Evan pulled away his memory from her and suppressed her mana. In instant, her vision turned black. In panic, she is screamed and grabbing Evan.


    "I... i wanted to see again! Please let me see it again! I''ll accept your power!" Her desperation to be able to see and a power to see overcome her trauma of skinship.


    "Good, i shall give you a bit of it."


    Erona could see again but it was limited to five meters, one meter is focused vision while outside one meter becomes blury.


    "Once we arrive at certain place, we hold a ceremony for it."


    She slowly nodded and looking around her with excitement.


    Then, few minutes later. The siblings returned which makes Erona shocked and hiding behind the Evan.


    "She woke up?" Perry muttered. He brought two rabbits on his both hands.


    "Yes, but she is still in shock."


    While putting down the rabbits, Perry staring at her intensely. On other hand, Erona also looking at him. Then she pulled Evan''s robe and speaks.


    "Why they and Sir Theo are different?"


    Perry and Najie wouldn''t know what she means but Evan know. Since she uses magic vision, she could see the difference between people through inside their bodies. If Evan used magic vision, then Perry, Najie and Erona would have colorful colors inside them.


    "What do you see in me?" Evan asked.


    "It''s.... pitch black, sometimes white but then black again."


    "Ah... okay."


    This is having relation with undead. Undead would be pitch black without slight change of color. His undead power is too powerful and it couldn''t be avoided if he is pitch black.


    Evan turned towards Perry whom dismantling the rabbits. He is quite skilled for a noble.


    "Hehe, when i was in wilderness, father told me that Housten''s man must skilled in wilderness too. Hunting, dismantling and surviving is the best!" Perry spoke in joy.


    "He is crazy about Housten''s man, please don''t mind him." Najie spoke as if it is a headache to hear Perry talking.


    "Well! I''m Housten''s man! If i can''t follow Housten''s man''s creed, i''m not worthy for being Housten''s man!"


    "That''s looks interesting, what kind of family is Housten?" Evan asked. In instant, Perry''s eyes glimmering in excitement as he begins his explanation.


    "Housten family is a military family! However, our ancestor made a creed that men from Housten must become a military man! Grandfather, father and myself learning to become a military ever since a kid."


    "What about the girls?"


    "Girls? Well..." Perry doesn''t know what to say and glanced at Najie whom sighed.


    "Women from Housten just normal noble ladies. Going to the party, established relationships. Very boring and unchallenging at all." She sighed.


    "As you can see Mister Theo, sister also has true Housten''s bloodline. We Housten are thirst for challenge but safety also a priority."


    "I see, so that''s why you quite odd."


    "Odd? Well, yes. I''m might be odd for a kid at my age."


    "But, your family creed really doesn''t give the girls freedom to become a military, what''s the reason?"


    "Our ancestor said that women must be protected not in front of front line. Only men must shed their blood in war."


    "Your ancestor seems like didn''t expect for Najie." Evan chuckled and then Perry also laughing very hard leaving Najie sighed and Erona puzzled.


    "If i could, i would run away from the house and start my own adventure." Najie grumbled.


    "But hey, maybe father would feel bad about me and won''t restrict myself since i lose my chastity."


    "What are you saying sister?!" Perry became upset.


    "What do you mean? My life as noble is over, everyone eventually will find out that i''m dirty and will bring shame upon family. It''s better to let me go, right?"


    Perry didn''t argue anymore but he is still showing great displeasure. After that, they start making fire and grilling the rabbits. One rabbit for two people, Evan didn''t eat much so he gave the rest to Erona. After resting few minutes, they start walking again on.

 Green fire

    Many days have passed since the Sign of Nightmare winter. Kings will gather in neutral zone, exactly at Union tower to discuss what they are going to do. Voru city became more crowded than usual, it''s because all kings will gather here and there will be festival.


    The festival was being told in sudden and nobody know what''s the festival for. The festival is directly being held by the Union and inviting all nobles to come and spectate a tournament they will held.


    Noel is watching nervously outside the city. He received a news that the war has stopped and anxious for his father to come here. There is so much he wanted to tell to his father and also he wanted to meet Felicia.


    "Don''t be nervous." Clara patted her back. She knows why Noel being nervous. The days they spent on training together had made them being close as friends. She also knew about Noel''s matters and who is Evan.


    "I can''t be not nervous. Even though i''m growing stronger. It feels like i''m still weak."


    "You''re comparing yourself with him again." Clara sighed, the ''him'' is Evan. She always heard about Evan and thought that Noel is exaggerating on him.


    "Well, who else i need to compare? Anyway, let''s go."


    "Right, training maniac." Clara laughed.


    Training maniac was given to Noel because his resolution to become stronger and keep training till his body couldn''t hold out. Fortunately, only Clara and her bodyguards that knows about this title of him. If everyone knows, he will dig a hole and hide his head in there.


    Followed by Clara''s bodyguards, they''re going to hunt monsters. With Clara''s help, Noel able to proceed smoothly while fighting monster. He able to control fire and use sword at the same time which makes him as the close combat. Clara attacking from far away and supporting Noel, she never once using her black fire as she stated that there is none worthy of it. The bodyguards only stay at her side without doing anything at all.


    Now, they are in Tegis dungeon. An old dungeon which is good for trained person. The dungeon contained reptile monsters and quite dangerous, the lowest floor was said there is a dragon awaits there.


    "Noel, four frosty lizards coming!" Clara warned. Noel nodded and charging ahead with his sword slowly covered by fire.


    "Burning slash!"


    He swings the sword and wide slash made of fire released from the sword. The fire burned three lizards in instant while the last one dodged and coming at Noel with a whip from its tail.


    Noel dodged the tail rather than taking the risk. Frosty lizard''s tail is hard and cold, once got hit by it, an effect of coldness will surround you.


    The frosty lizard open its mouth and trying to bite Noel. However, a fire arrow coming at it and hit it. The lizard was shocked by sudden attack and Noel quickly launch a heavy swinging down slash to cut the lizard''s head. Cloaked with fire, he beheaded the lizard perfectly.


    "Good job." Clara praised.


    "You could have finish it over." Noel spoke, he knew that Clara''s fire arrow would be able to finish the frosty lizard but she seems never intend to do so.


    "I''ll leave everything up to you. So, it will be fine." She smiled happily. Forcing Noel to do all the things while she is happily watching and only help a little bit. Noel is helpless against her.


    After dismantling the lizards, they went deeper into the dungeon. Different types of lizards keep appearing frequently and they keep changing their tactics when dealing them. Especially against fire lizard. Since fire is their element, fire attack won''t do much damage and Noel could only rely on his sword. If the fire lizard is weak, he could finish it with fire attack. It depends on his skill with fire.


    "Phew, that''s the last one." Noel wiped sweat on his forehead. He fought against three frosty lizards, two earth lizards and one giant lizard. Earth lizard is tough and heavy; it takes very much attacks to end it. Giant lizard is big and strong, although no element, it is very strong and ferocious.


    "You really became better." Clara complimented him once again.


    "Thank you, but i don''t think i''m-"


    "Stop comparing yourself. It''s good to have a comparation but it''s not good to keep comparing yourself. Between you and Evan? I would choose you."


    "Ah... thank you." Noel was embarrassed, he didn''t expect that coming.


    It was not a joke that Clara has a feeling for him. They are quite close and fight side to side. Although they only known for short time, they spent their times mostly together and bonded a training partner relationship.


    For Clara, this is her first time to be interested towards a man. Ever since not allowed in contact with others and her life always in danger. She is never once had this kind of fun being together with someone. But she knew that Noel has a fianc¨¦e and she can''t force her feeling on him.


    "Well, let''s-"


    "Watch out!"


    Noel pushed Clara away and got injured by flying dagger. Noel glaring at Clara''s bodyguards who launched the dagger.


    "You! What''s the meaning of this?!"


    "Relax Noel." Clara spoke, "They wanted me." Her tone is icy and filled with hatred.


    "I thought you guys were loyal, but seems like no?"


    "Don''t be mad princess." One of the bodyguard spoke while laughing.


    "We''re not your bodyguards."


    They pulled their skins and revealed their faces.


    "Your bodyguards were dead; we''re just replacing them to catch you."


    "Hmph! If you can!"


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Clara casted black fire swarming towards them. This the first time that Noel saw black fire and he could felt a scary feeling about it. But, looking at the fake bodyguards, they don''t panic or afraid at all.


    "Hahaha, thanks to master." The first fake throw a paper towards the black fire and suddenly a massive ice wall appears and blocked the black fire.


    "What?!" Clara shocked in disbelief. Her black fire was blocked which is wasn''t supposed to be able to be blocked.


    "Surprise? This is white ice. Master gave this to us to capture you."


    Clara shivered, she knew about white ice. The ice that could equal black fire. She didn''t expect to meet one.


    "Well, princess. Just be obedient."


    They throw several papers and ice golems summoned. Not normal ones but white ice golems.


    "Burning slash!"


    Noel tried to inflict a damage but his attack was useless against white ice.


    "Give up boy!" The second fake laughed.


    "Only princess can stop white ice! But she has limited mana and we have many papers!"


    Clara clicked her tongue and shot several Black fireballs towards the golem and melt them.


    "Princess, just give up. You can''t handle them alone."


    "Hmph!"


    She creates a Black fire wall and stop the golems from advancing.


    "Noel! We must run! Go deeper to the dungeon!"


    "But it''s-"


    "Dangerous! I know!"


    Clara doesn''t have a choice. Facing against the fakes or monsters, both are dangerous and there might be a result of death too. In honesty, it is fine as long only she alone. But Noel also involved and she doesn''t want him to get hurt.


    Running deeper into the depth, Noel and Clara finishing the monsters at quick pace. Behind them are the golems and the fakes, they easily making their way towards Noel and Clara.


    They don''t know how long they have been in the dungeon, they don''t think of it and just proceed deeper. Eventually exhaustion coming to them and their pace becomes slower.


    "Drink this." Noel gave Clara mana potion. They don''t even know how many times they drink these bitter potions but they know that they will run out for mana potion.


    "Where are we?"


    Looking at in front of him, it''s a long small bridge made of stone. While below the bridge is lake of lava. One wrong step will end up being nothing in the lava.


    "Hahaha, to think you guys would be here." Familiar voice and a person appear in front of them.


    "How?" Clara''s face became ashen to know the second fake is already catching up with them. As she turned around, she found the first fake blocking the exit.


    "Now, there is no need to run." The fakes laughing happily as they approaching.


    ''What can i do?'' Noel bite his lips in desperation and suddenly Clara grabbing his hand.


    "Clara?"


    "Noel..." she looks hurt and almost crying.


    "I''ll make a way; you have to escape."


    "What? No! I don''t want to leave you!"


    "The situation forced us! I don''t want you to die because of me! They wanted me and as long they have me, you can escape!"


    A pain struck his heart. Leaving Clara alone, was it right action? He asking himself again and again. Then he remembered leaving Evan alone back in the balloon ship.


    ''I won''t leave her alone.''


    ''I won''t leave you! I won''t leave my friend again!"


    "Noel! Please understand!"


    "No! Sometimes i must follow my own heart!" As he said that, fire spreading out around him and he saw a cave far away from the bridge. Without hesitation, he suddenly carries Clara and jump off from the bridge.


    "Noel?!"


    "Do not worry! Fire!"


    Wings of fire spread on his back and between his feet. Although he isn''t flying, he manages to glide very fast towards the cave.


    ''Damn it! I can''t.''


    Their altitude lowered before reaching the cave. At this rate, both of them unable to get to the cave.


    "Noel."


    Clara hugged Noel and suddenly the wings increased by size and became stronger. They became faster and reaching the cave safely.


    "We''re arrive."


    "Yeah."


    "Clara?"


    Noel felt a heat coming from Clara. Her face is red, he slowly put her down and checking her temperature. Once he touched her forehead, his hand felt like touching hot iron.


    "Clara?! What''s happening?"


    "It''s.... black fire." She had rough when tried to spoke, her vision is hazy and then unconscious. Noel became confuse for what to do and at this time, a huge fish coming out from the lava.


    "That''s magmatic fish."


    Noel saw a fish like that in the book. But this is the first time he saw the real one and the size isn''t a joke. It''s length around 45 meters and who knows if this is the old one or not.


    Noel couldn''t care about that, he carrying Clara and proceed forward. Her body is very hot, he tried to absorb the heat but somehow it won''t cease to stop.


    Few hours of walking, Noel is sweating a lot due to how hot his surroundings. Not just from Clara, the more he proceeds, the atmosphere became hotter.


    In front of him, he saw a wide area. Lava flowing out like waterfall on the wall and a huge round stone with red cracking on it in front of him.


    Noel put her down and walks to the stone.


    "What is this stone?" He is curious, the stone giving mystical feeling and inviting people who looking at it.


    Curiosity easily overtook him and he touches the stone. Noel''s eyes widened and his mind sucked towards the stone.


    At once, he could see a barren land where people going to war. People killing each other and clashing like two different waves of seas. On the sky, he could see several men fighting against a dragon.


    Those men giving an ancient aura that impossible for Noel to understand and the dragon with dark scale and green spikes roaring majestically.


    "Dragon king! We shall kill you!"


    One of those men shouted in anger.


    "What can pitiful being like you could do?! I controlled human! None of you can defeat me!"


    The black dragon breathes a green fire and those men hurriedly dodging away as if the green fire is far from than a fire but a plague as well.


    "We can''t defeat him! Dragon king already broke through the limits! Just seven of us aren''t enough!"


    "We have to try! They believe on us and we can''t fall back!"


    the fight between seven men against the dragon were fierce. Both sides don¡¯t go back down but, the seven men was pushed and one by one they got injured.


    "Give up! No matter what you, dragon will overrule this world!"


    "In your dream!"


    A roar of another dragon came from afar. The seven men and the Dragon king shocked. From far away, giant red dragon coming at them and there is someone stood on top of it.


    "Rivast! You traitor!" The Dragon king roared and flew towards the red dragon.


    "Dragon race will fall because of you! Our greed must be stopped here!" The red Dragon, Rivast roaring and breath out black fire.


    "Do you think your black fire is tough?! Human will think of that! But us! Dragon never thinks black fire is strongest of all!"


    The Dragon king inhaled and all black fire entering him. Rivast''s eyes constricted in disbelief.


    "I''m the king of fire, no one can defeat me."


    "Really? Then i, Reifu shall stop you! Go Rivast!"


    A giant palm made of white ice descending from the sky and pressing the Dragon king.


    "White ice? Your little freak, i admit you are strong. But too weak for me!"


    Green fire breath out and melted all white ice in instant. However, Reifu still keep his composure and smiled.


    "Weak, right, i''m weak. Space rift, Ice realm."


    The ground and sky trembling and raging as if day of judgement is coming. The scenery changed into frozen area. There is no people killing each other, no seven men. Only Reifu, Rivast and the Dragon king.


    "How was it, Osion? This is my realm! No one will remember this fight ever!"


    "Then i shall kill you both!"


    Noel will spectate a fight that was never recorded in history. A fight between Hero Reifu with Rivast against Osion.


    Osion, the old evil dragon who reign Dragon race for 8300 years was a powerful enemy. Even the so called black fire unable to defeat him. By joining hands, Reifu and Rivast manage to heavily wound Osion. It''s a fatal wound that will never be able healed.


    However, Osion manage to break free from the realm and went hiding. Knowing his life going to end, he pulled out his core and insert all his memories inside it.


    "For those who find it! I shall bestow you my power! Get me a revenge! Revenge for all races!"


    Noel shuddered and his face ashen. Green fire begins to spread around his body and he start screaming.


    "No! This is wrong!"


    He refused to get revenge for Osion. Even though he wanted to become stronger, he refuses this power.


    "Foolish human! Why do you refuse? Do you want to become stronger? Submit to-"


    "I won''t submit! I will never submit to you for power! Revenge for all races for my own gain? Hah! Dream on! I''m not that selfish!"


    "Then! You shall perish!"


    Even though it''s only remnant of the memories. Osion manage to let out a power to crush Noel. Noel''s body is on fire but not burnt, the green fire didn''t damage his body but his soul.


    "I won''t.... i will keep living! I won''t die no matter what!"


    Red sparks coming out from his body and turned fire then start dancing around him and trying to push away the green fire.


    "I''ll become strong... with my own path!"


    "Dragon or not! King of fire or not! I will become the master of fire!"


    Unknown to him, red light flashed on his eyes and the red fire dancing happily as it formed wings on his shoulder. Layer of red fire starting to cover his body and pushed away the green fire.


    "Thank you for your knowledge! But i path my own path!" Noel took out his sword and slashes through the stone. The stone splits into two and green fire burst out from and forming a dragon.


    "Foolish! I shall devour you then!"


    "If you can!"


    Unknown to him too, that he is created seed of fire inside him. Unknown to him too, that he isn''t affected by fire anymore.


    The green fire dragon which is avatar of Osion dive towards Noel. He bracing himself with his fire and slash upwards towards the dragon. His fire splits the dragon into two then he used his fire to gather up the green fire.


    "Devour!" He shouted and his fire devoured the green fire. No trace of Osion anymore, he obtained his memories but there is no single trace of Osion to disturb him.


    Green fire flickering on his palm, now it is become his possession.


    "I don''t want to become a dragon." Noel muttered.


    "A phoenix is better. From ash to flame, eternal fire that never ending to lit this world in the darkness."


    "Ah, Clara!"


    Noel quickly went towards her and once he makes a contact with her. Heat inside her body got absorbed by him, making her temperature normal again.


    "That''s.... weird."


    He didn''t understand what was happening to him. Going through soul tormenting green fire, he only wished to keep alive and become stronger. He doesn''t know his current condition is good or not.


    "We should leave immediately." Noel carries Clara and leave the place. He walks and choosing the path with his own instinct. Fortunately, no monsters around him and he is grateful.


    Oddly for him, he didn''t get tire after walking more than ten hours. He didn''t get hungry or thirsty which makes him wondering if his body really fine.


    "Uhh..."


    Clara opened her eyes, even though her vision still blurry, she could see Noel''s face.


    "Noel...."


    "Hey, don''t worry. We will get out from this place."


    Clara didn''t hear what he said, she is too not focus and slowly hugging Noel.


    "C-Clara?"


    "Thank you..... thank you for being alive."


    "Uh, yeah?"


    Then, she lost her conscious again and makes Noel worry her.


    "Clara is pretty." Noel muttered after he staring at her face.


    "What i''m saying? Don''t be tempted! I already have a fianc¨¦e!"

 Her master

    "We finally out!"


    Noel shouted in joy, his face is full of dirt and stinks. However, he doesn''t care, for five days in the dungeon and seeking an exit. He finally gets out.


    "Never though i will see a sky." Clara walks beside her. All this time inside the dungeon. They are depending each other¡¯s and hunting monsters for eating.


    "What about those guys? The one who wanted you?" Noel asked Clara. But she just shrugged her shoulders.


    "Maybe they already give up or die? Who cares? Let''s go home already. I''m tired."


    "Yes, but wait."


    "What?" Clara stopped and looking at Noel.


    "Your place, will it be safe? If you don''t mind, you could stay in the same inn as mine." Noel scratched his head in embarrassment as if he is inviting a girl to his house.


    "Good idea, it''s better be like that." Clara smiled. Noel was taken back by Clara straightforward answer and coughing.


    "Let''s go."


    Returning to the inn, they became attention in bad ways. After renting a room, Clara quickly went to take a bath. Noel did the same and felt refreshed.


    "Did i become stronger?" Noel mumbled while looking to the mirror. He remembered about what he went through inside the dungeon. It could be called luck after disaster, and that luck also brings disaster too. If he were giving up back then, he might be not like this. Noel didn''t show the green fire in front of Clara yet. But she already knew that Noel has been improved greatly.


    Knock.


    "Yes?"


    "Noel, do you have clothes? I didn''t have anything to change."


    "Ah, wait a moment. Just return to your room, i''ll bring my clothes to you."


    Noel somehow panicked and picked his clothes randomly then walks to Clara''s room.


    "Enter."


    Noel slowly opened the door and then saw Clara covered by towel only. He gasped and in instant put his clothes inside the room then close the door


    Clara laughed after looking at his reaction. She laughed hard and picked his clothes.


    "Noel, you there?"


    "Yeah."


    "You may come in."


    With trembling hand, Noel slowly opening the door and found Clara sits on the bed with his clothes. He gulped and felt embarrassed that his clothes is now wore by a girl.


    "Your body is quite big." Clara spoke, Noel''s clothes are bit bigger than her and it''s showing mysterious charm coming out from her.


    "Evan''s body is bigger."


    "Don''t compare yourself okay? You became strong, you might be already surpassed him." She clearly showing displease when Noel tried to compare himself with Evan.


    "Maybe, maybe not. Somehow, i never know how strong Evan is. Clara, if you meet him, you will understand why i''m comparing myself to him."


    "If i meet him... but his whereabouts is unknown and he might be dead."


    In instant Noel had sour expression. He didn''t receive any news about Evan. Of course, he doesn''t know news about five days before. But still, he is worry to death about Evan and he also believes that Evan still alive. Though it was only his belief without backing.


    "Soon, it will be the exam day isn''t? Are you prepared?" Clara asked.


    "I am."


    "Great, you''re confident. Then i''ll be in your care."


    "What?"


    "I''m alone, as a man, you should protect me, right?"


    "Yeah?"


    "I''ll be in your care, my knight."


    Didn''t expect this, Noel only gaped while Clara giggling. Looking at her, many men would be enticed by her. Noel is not an exception, but he remembered about Falecia and tried to keep himself down.


    The next morning. As usual, Noel begin his daily exercise. A lonely exercise even though the city is crowded to prepare the festival.


    Noel stopped at the gate to Rashburg Academy, he already registering for the exam with Clara. After a while looking at the gate, he sighed and then keep running.


    While running, Noel trying to remembering Osion''s memories within him.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    Osion was born as a fire dragon. Powerful but wicked, he sought for power and wished to conquer the world. Once he grows old, his once red scale turned black and he obtained green fire. Unparalled in fire, he is called King of Fire. Leading Dragon race to destroy and conquer the land. Vicious, sly, domineering, Heartless, he is becoming the enemy of all kind.


    Before arrival of the three heroes, Osion was unparalled. But once the heroes appeared and rebellion caused by Rivast. He is now become paralled. Seeking more power, he sacrificed many lives and obtained ashen fire. Yet, he never be able to use it all.


    "Fire... i''m really lucky huh." That''s the only thing he could said to himself. He isn''t a genius or talented, his hardworking attitude might not be the best too. But he got lucky and that luck comes with a risk.


    Afterwards, he accompanies Clara going back to her house. They already suspecting that the fake bodyguards will waiting for them.


    Slowly, they entering the house but only to found a woman with black robe covered her face with hood and only showing her red lips smiling at them.


    "Clara!" She exclaimed, "I thought you''re never return."


    "Master?" Clara''s voice somewhat trembling and she running towards her master then hugs her.


    "Master!!"


    "Shhhh. There is a man watching us, aren''t you embarrassed?"


    "No!"


    She buried her face into her master. Like daughter and mother, they are reflecting this situation. After crying for few minutes, Clara calmed herself.


    "So, who is this man? You''re boyfriend?"


    "N-no! He is my knight!"


    Noel got choked, he didn''t think that Clara would called him that. Her master laughing heartily while looking at Noel and Clara.


    "He is Noel Rishawd from Noguard kingdom."


    "Oh? Both of you seem close? What happened?"


    "We''re friends." Clara answered with smile.


    "I thought you wouldn''t have a friend? Seems like you got one, good job Clara."


    Clara didn''t reply but she is also glad to have Noel. Glad to have someone she could trust.


    "Master, about-"


    "Your bodyguards? They were dead." She answered coldly.


    "Master killed him?" Clara asked with anxious and worry.


    "Yes, they harmed my cute apprentice and i would not give a mercy to them. Your father seems gave you weak bodyguards to be so easily killed and the fakes took over their roles."


    "Master, they can summon white ice."


    "I know, it''s because of these." She took out papers and put it on the table. Noel felt familiarity with the papers and then he remembered about Evan had weird expression once saw these same kinds of papers.


    Clara''s master saw Noel''s expression and says, "Do you know about these?"


    "Not quite true, these papers are instant cast papers. I encountered them before along with my friend."


    "Your friend, could it be Evan?" Clara was sensitive regarding Evan things.


    "Yes, back then, he had weird expression towards these papers."


    "Your friend is a mystery." Her master said with smile and continues, "The instant cast paper is existed ever since long ago. Invented by Hero Reifu and his disciple to help the war against dark army. Originally, these papers should be not existed anymore because the old Undead king destroyed the factories and massacred all those who knows about this. But seems like someone survived and passed down about this paper but it was not publicly known."


    "They have a lot of these papers; how did they get them?" Clara asked.


    "Possibly the one who invented these papers are working together with the one who wanted you or they may be a same person."


    "What do they want with me? It couldn''t be it has something related to the paper, too right?"


    "You''re right, it has related to the paper. Do you know why they can use such legendary white ice? It''s because they have the copy of white ice from the real one. If they have you, they could copy your black fire and it would be dangerous."


    Clara shivered once hearing this. Papers that could cast black fire easily. If people armed with these, it would be very dangerous and especially controlled by wrong people.


    "Master, can you replicate the paper?" Clara asked.


    "Impossible for me. The creation of this paper is ancient, lost for ages." She sighed. To be truth, she is excited to find out how to create this paper too, but the complex and unknown way to create the paper made her gave up.


    "Well then, let''s talk something else" her eyes moving towards Noel.


    "Your knight. I would like to see how strong he is."


    "How strong Noel is?"


    "You need a strong knight. A knight that can protect you in any danger and save you anytime. That is your knight, if he is weak, then he can''t be called your knight. At least he could be called your servant." She smiled viciously and stood.


    "Let''s go outside, we shall have a match." As she spoke that, Clara and Noel had stiff expression. Her master just giggled and went outside the house. With hurry, Clara and Noel also catching up with her.


    Outside the house is a wide field and far from the crowds, it is fine for noise happening here. Clara''s master stood with a black staff on her hand.


    "Come Noel, if you just manage to withstand against me. It is good."


    Noel gulped and looking at Clara. She also looking at him and nodded slightly. With bravery, he accumulates in instant, he steps forward and looking at Clara''s master.


    "Master mainly use fire magic too. But she is skilled in something else and rarely show it anyone. Becareful, master is ruthless when it comes to magic."


    "O-okay." Noel is very nervous; he could feel that Clara''s master is far stronger than him. On top of that, Clara also respected her very much and no joking about what she said to him.


    "Fire.... control fire. Turn to ash to flame."


    "Here i go!"


    In instant, Clara''s master shot a big fireball. Noel gulped and charging ahead towards the fireball. Clara who saw this gasped as she thought that Noel is an idiot.


    She knew that Noel could control fire but she is afraid that he is lack control against her master. Yet, she doesn''t have time to warn him.


    The fireball distance to Noel is getting shorter, yet Noel didn''t waver slightest and a spark of fire came out below his foots. He jumped and burst of fire boosted him to the sky and avoiding the fireball.


    Clara''s master widened her eyes for a moment as she didn''t expect for Noel to jump over the fireball with booster. She casted small fireballs that coming at him.


    Noel saw it once he landed down on the ground. He created a sword from fire and slashed the fireballs that coming at then he charging towards her.


    Clara''s master smiled and flicked her finger. Suddenly a fire like beast coming out from the ground with three pronged fangs. Noel was startled but he keeps moving forward and then use another booster to jump.


    She saw this coming and casted a fire hammer swinging towards him. Noel aiming his hand at her and a burst of fire coming out. She shielded herself with magic barrier but then surprised that Noel used the fire to pushed himself away from the range of hammer and pushed himself to the sky.


    ''What is he trying to do?'' She is curious, she never seen someone like this before. Daring and reckless like fire.


    "Let''s see if he could avoid this."


    She chanted few words and then a red diagram appears on the ground. A long dragon made of fire rushing towards Noel.


    "Dragon?!" Noel alerted and panicked but then he remembered about Osion and Rivast. They dragon he facing right now isn''t scary as the real one.


    "I''m going to become a phoenix! An eternal fire! I will become the fire itself!" Noel shouted and burst of fire wings spread out. Diving to the dragon''s mouth, his body burning with red fire and he entering the dragon.


    Clara and her master staring at the dragon, they were saw Noel went into the dragon and it''s really a reckless thing to do. The dragon has swallowed Noel and it was clear for them. But somehow, it doesn''t sound right at all.


    The dragon has no tail and connected to the diagram. It only stands still after devoured Noel, but then, the dragon''s fire flickering around with unusual behavior.


    Clara''s master squinted her eyes as she focusing to dragon and suddenly, the end of the dragon got teared off apart and a flame bird coming out towards her.


    ''Bird? How?'' She didn''t believe that there is a bird coming out from the dragon. The flame bird then changed into a human form and Noel appearing and shot a fireball.


    Clara''s master sweep her staff and bend down the fireball''s trajectory then covering Noel with fire vortex.


    "Stop." She spoke. "See your own body." She continued and looking at Noel through the vortex with insidious smile.


    Noel looking at his body and shocked. He is literally naked, not even a slight of cloth covering his body. He quickly uses his fire to cover his body and walks out.


    "Um..." he became embarrassed since two women are here with him.


    "No worries, i''m more interested with how you turn into fire rather than your body." Clara''s master shook her hand and walks to him.


    "You developed seed of fire? You''re not just normal fire mage." She spoke in astonishment but Noel showing sign of ignorant.


    "What is seed of fire?"


    "Basically it¡¯s a seed growing from fire. This seed is your first step to become master of fire. Can only obtained by strong will, determination and luck."


    "What''s the benefit?"


    "As you can see, you can turn yourself into fire. Your body right now can be dispersed like fire and formed another form in fire form."


    "You''re amazing Noel." Clara complimented him. Noel just scratched his head and don''t know at all about seed of fire.


    "Noel, consider yourself lucky. Even Clara still didn''t have seed of fire. If you train more, you might be able to control your fire and not burn your clothes." With vicious smile, Clara''s master laughed.


    "My name is Teronna, consider yourself lucky again to know my name. Now, Clara, would you mind bring his clothes here? It would be total embarrassment for him."


    "Y-yes!"


    Noel gave her his room''s key which is stored inside his magic ring, it was fortunate that his ring didn''t melt. Teronna sighed after watching Clara left, she then looking at Noel with indifferent face.


    "Noel Rishawd." She spoke.


    "Yes?"


    "Clara is a young girl, never interacted too much with her family. She feels lonely and you are her first friend. Please take care of her, she needs someone she could trust and also... keep yourself alive, she had enough to see people died protecting her and she doesn''t want to see it anymore."


    "Yes..." Noel firmly nodded.


    "Good man, i can allow you to marry her."


    "Wha- no! I have a fianc¨¦e!" Noel almost got a heart attack.


    "You could just have two wives? What''s the problem?"


    Noel gaped, he couldn''t believe that Teronna would say such a thing so easily. To have two wives, he wouldn''t even think that. That''s out of reach of his mind.


    "Seems like you''re not dragon amongst men. Why you''re not taking an opportunity?"


    "That''s doesn''t matter! I only want one wife and no more than that."


    "Huh? You sure? Really?"


    "Why are you asking about that?"


    Teronna only smiled and then entering the house again. After Clara came back, Teronna decided that she will lives here for temporary till Clara accepted into the academy.


    Since everything turns to normal again, Noel and Clara begin to train again but with Teronna''s guidance.

 Destination

    Acolia town, Housten''s house.


    "Thank you for taking back our children." A man and a woman bowing towards Evan.


    "We already searching them but couldn''t find them. Once again, thank you Sir Theo." The man spoke. He is the current head of Housten family, Brjon Housten.


    "It''s okay, rather thanking me. It''s better to think about what will Najie do in the future."


    Evan bring this up because Najie want a freedom and don''t want to shame her family. It is best for her to leave.


    "Yes, we will talk about that later. Sir Theo, you may stay with us."


    "Okay."


    Evan and Erone were led by the maid to their own rooms. But Evan called Erona to his room and locked the door.


    "Are you ready?" Evan asked.


    "Yes, please begin." Erona spoke and undressed then lie down on the bed with reverse position. Slowly, Evan walks to her and touches her back.


    "It might be painful, but hold it."


    "Yes..."


    A sinister black ice floating on his hand then he pushed the ice into Erona''s back.


    "Guuuh!!"


    The black ice is far frightening than white ice. It eats mana and soul, however, with Evan controlling the black ice. It will be fine.


    What he doing right now is cleaning her mana. The black ice will absorb all of her mana and then he will release her mana with high purity. Afterwards, he created an inscription on her back with magic.


    The inscription is called ''Eternal covenant''. A covenant that will bound her to Evan for the rest of her life. Once she died, she will become an undead and joining ranks with his previous servants.


    "Your name is Erona, i shall bestow you your servant''s name. Amaran Shi!"


    The inscription glowing and incredible power entering her. With covenant bestowal to her, Evan''s power reduced to 40%.


    "It''s done."


    "Thank you." Erona felt her body is really weak despite incredible power entering her. She slowly gets up and dressed herself. Her vision expanded and now she can see up to 20 meters with focus area seven meters. She also could focus into one place but it will limit the other part.


    "Magic vision is the first, you will wear this. It will protect you in danger." Evan gave her Bracelet of Thorn.


    "Then, you need to learn offensive magic to protect yourself."


    "I do know a magic to protect myself."


    "Oh, what is that?"


    Erona smiled and a faint glow surrounds her. Her mana coming out from her and forming spirits.


    "Hm, that''s good. But they are vulnerable against magic itself. Still... if you able to materialize it into something, it can be very powerful."


    "Yes, i''ll work hard."


    What Erona just use is ''Mana spirits''. By let out mana and manifesting spirits, she could use it for attacking opponent''s mental and use for scouting. They are vulnerable against magic but invincible against physical contact unless it has magic with it or special force.


    "Where did you learn it?"


    "Before.... my father taught me this to protect myself. At that time, my magic is quite bad." Erona laughed bitterly. If she is good with magic and has ''Magic vision'', she wouldn''t be kidnapped at that time.


    Knock.


    Evan opened the door and saw a maid slightly bowing at him.


    "Master request Sir Theo and Miss Erona to have lunch with the family."


    "Okay, we''ll be there."


    On their way to the dining room. Evan secretly praising the house. Housten''s house is different from Rishawd''s house. Housten''s house is smaller than Rishawd but it has better decorations. On the wall, Evan found a painting of a man wearing official military uniform and has stern face. It has name, "Housten family''s founder, Youbin Housten."


    Then, the next side is second generation of Housten family, third generation, fourth generation and keep continuing till eight generation which is Perry''s father on the painting.


    At the dining room, Brjon, his wife, Perry, and Najie gathered. Brjon stood once he saw Theo and Erona.


    "Please come and eat with us!" He spoke with sincerity. Evan slowly nodded and sits beside Perry while Erona sits beside him.


    "Sir Theo, where did you come from? If i may know." Brjon asked.


    "From wilderness, i left because of the short winter."


    Brjon and his wife turned grim. Short winter is clearly a sign of Undead king, no one would look down upon it.


    "How was the situation here?" Evan asked.


    "It''s okay. Thanks to Union moving quite fast and spread news about festival in Voru city, the people is calmed down a bit."


    "I see, how long the festival being held?"


    "It''s a grand festival, so it might be over than two months? It''s not like the festival will be held all day." Brjon laughed and then continue, ¡°We¡¯re also planning to send Perry and Najie to go there."


    "Mister Brjon and Mrs. Housten aren''t going there?"


    "No, at times like this. We should guard up and keep an eye around us. Who knows what will happen and our king also gave a warn to us too."This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Evan slowly nodded. It''s a good thing to be cautious. Short winter caused by him and new Undead king is clearly a threat to them. No one knows when old Undead king will attack or when the new one will attack. The new Undead king might won''t let things go off so easily.


    Afterwards, they are eating together. Evan had talks with Brjon and then to Perry. Once the lunch is finished, Brjon asked Evan to come to his office.


    At the office, Brjon is waiting with Najie and his wife.


    "I already thinking over this. Supposely, Housten''s woman will be a lady. But, Najie''s circumstance is quite bad. I know that she might not receive good opinion from others and i know that she wants to leave." He sighed and looking at Evan with hope and trust.


    "Sir Theo, would you like to bring Najie along with you?"


    ".... Why me?"


    "From what i heard from Najie and Perry. You are a strong mage and you also the one who saved our children. This is might sound selfish, but outside world is dangerous and i can''t get over myself to let Najie go alone. So, i wish Sir Theo would like to bring her."


    Evan glanced at Najie, honestly for him, he rather chooses to travel alone because there will be nothing to burden him. But now he already took Erona under him and then there is Najie.


    Looking at her, there is an anticipation and hope for Evan to agree. Thinking of what will he do in the future, it might be something crazy.


    "Mister Brjon, i''ll be frank. My journey is dangerous. By means of dangerous, you could say challenging the Undead king." With leisure and relaxed tone, he said that. The others had stiff expression and just keep quiet.


    "I might be strong but there is always someone stronger above me. There might be a time where i couldn''t protect her or paid any attention to her."


    "That is fine." Najie spoke out, "It''s adventure and there always be a danger. I''m ready for it." She gave a wide smile that represent her confident.


    "...Very well then, i shall bring you along."


    Brjon and his wife have relief expression. Evan then excused himself and leave the office. Going back to his room, he lies down on his bed and close his eyes.


    .....


    "Osion is dead."


    A shadowy figure spoke in front of him.


    "He is dead long ago." Evan replied calmly.


    "No, this time his remnant is dead. Defeated by someone and absorbed. The green fire once again lit to this world."


    "...."


    "Don''t you feel anxious? It''s coming closer, the reason i''m here because the time soon will come."


    The shadowy figure then disappears and speaks, "Become stronger quickly, time won''t wait."


    Evan opened his eyes and found out that it''s already night. He slowly sits on the bed and looking towards the door.


    "Erona."


    "Yes?" A shocked tone answer coming from behind the door.


    "Tell them, we will leave tomorrow morning."


    "Them? Ah, okay." Her footsteps can be heard walking away from Evan. He sighed and looking to the window.


    "If i don''t became an undead... will i be happy?"


    The next morning, it was sudden departure. Although Evan already informed through Erona, they still thinking that Evan is leaving them too soon.


    "Are you sure Sir Theo? Why not just staying bit longer?" Brjon spoke with worry but Evan shook his head.


    "Yes, and also, i''ll be sure to bring Najie to the festival."


    "Becareful Mister Theo! Although you are strong, don''t be overconfident and arrogant!" Perry said with smile. Evan only nodded and then walks away followed by Erona and Najie.


    "We''re going to a clothes store first." Evan said after looking at Erona. Right now, she is wearing Najie''s dress. She needs her own clothes.


    "The money-"


    "I have a lot." He said leisurely. Even if the money wasn''t enough, he could sell all the items he found in the balloon ship.


    "Najie, you go with Erona. You know what i mean right?" He said while giving a pouch of coins.


    "Yes, i know." Najie smiled happily and pulls Erona towards the clothes store. He wanted girl to handle girly''s things. He doesn''t know what their needs and ignorant about it.


    After a while, Erona and Najie coming out from the store. Erona wore a plain blue ocean long dress that has no decoration at all.


    "Hm, right, we need magic storage to keep your belongings." Evan took out several rings from his storage and give to Erona.


    Both Erona and Najie was shocked by the number of the rings.


    "Mister Theo... you''re rich." Najie said with amaze.


    "Hahaha..." he scratched his head turned away. He became rich by looting people''s belongings. It''s not a crime since they were dead already.


    "We''re going to armory store next. Najie, lead the way."


    "Yes!"


    "Now, i''ll tell your positions. Erona will be a mage that will support with her spirits. Najie will be our attacker and deal with the enemy head on. As for me, i''m all-rounder."


    "All-rounder?" Najie titled her head, "Aren''t you a mage?"


    "Who said i can''t do anything else? Just trust me."


    Arriving at the armory store. Evan let Erona choose an armor that is light and would protect her well. A mage is vulnerable in physical body, so she needs good defense. As for Najie, she is happily enjoying browsing around the store to find armor that best for her. She is also looking for a sword that fits her well.


    After finished choosing. Erona choose a wooden spear. She doesn''t know how to use spear but it is weapon that she will use when in close combat. At least, she could swing it around. A chainmail to protect her body from incoming attack, long or close attack.


    Najie armed with medium weight armor, materials made of titanium and she doesn''t get affected by the weight at all. She has two weapons, short sword and longsword.


    "Good, we are prepared. Then, shall we go?"


    "Mister Theo, to where?" Najie asked.


    "Hunting bandits."


    "Are we going to become bounty hunters?" Erona spoke with confusion.


    "No, let''s say we''re hunters and those bandits are our preys. We didn''t seek bandits for money, seek their death."


    The way of him saying it with calmness made Erona and Najie had stiff and ashen expressions. They realized that Evan wanted to kill the bandits, just killing them. But none of them knows that Evan only seek for life force and death force.


    Since they''re traveling together. Evan needs to buy a carriage for them to ride and foods too. After dealing with these, they start their journey to the next bandit''s lair.


    The one who driving the carriage is Evan with Najie while Erona is meditating inside.


    "Mister Theo, why did you want to kill the bandits? Do you hate them? Or is there any other reason."


    Evan didn''t answer right away. He glanced to her and then says, "If i told you i killed them to make myself stronger, will you believe it."


    Najie had disbelief expression right away. She doesn''t understand why would killing someone making you stronger. Evan doesn''t want to explain it either, their relationship is just comrade in journey. If she is trustful enough, Evan will reveal it.


    "Um... Theo." Erona called.


    "I''m stuck at Magic spirits; will it be fine when comes to fight?"


    "You worried about its usefulness?"


    Erona nodded.


    "Magic spirits capable to attack mentality of a person and it''s quite dangerous. As i said before, it can become a scout or something like that. It can protect you too from magic attack. The most important thing, you need to expand it by your own. Magic is about creativity, expand your imagination and crave for further experimentation."


    "Do not chant, imagine to create the spirits from your mana. This is the example." Evan open up his palm and then his mana formed a small human being. It moved around before disappear.


    "Amazing!" Najie happily clasped her hand. She doesn''t really understand what Evan said but it''s clearly something amazing.


    While Erona, she is in deep thought to understand it. She didn''t ask further and begin to meditate again.


    Day went to night, both girls went to sleep after eating dried meats. Evan still keep driving the carriage without stop. He doesn''t need rest and his stamina is full.


    At the moment of peace, Evan received a telepathy from Romue.


    "Master! Congratulations for you!" She screamed like a girl who saw her favorite idol. Her screams instantly making Evan got a headache.


    "Yes, thank you. How was the situation."


    "The fake king decide to stay low for a moment but he aiming for something big. One of his plan is to attack neutral zone by gathering huge number of undead."


    "Besides that, master... this fake king is quite fast. Even though he didn''t get Death book, he still manages to open a small portal to underworld and conquer some part of it."


    "That''s quite skill he got."


    "Master is better, also master... i found where Kolan whereabouts."


    Evan twitched and smiled. Kolan is his servant, a dwarf that let his soul entering a golem and serving him. He is the first servant he obtained, Kolan is knowledgeable one and likes to create something. Who knows how many creations he made and how many creations he destroyed. His personality is bit odd.


    "Send me his location, i''ll visit him soon."


    "Yes master, but the fake king''s servant and army also stationing nearby Kolan. He tried to recruit Kolan but since Kolan bound to you by Eternal covenant, it was impossible."


    "I see, well, they''re not threat."


    "It is as you say master."


    Two days passed and they are getting close to the bandit.


    "The bandits are attacking people; we will arrive soon."


    "Will they be alright?" Erona asked with worry.


    "It will be fine, there are several adventurers guarding those people but they are outnumbered."


    Then, not far from them, they could see several carriages are stopped and people fighting.


    "Najie, did you ever kill someone before?"


    "N-no." Najie shook her head nervously.


    "Then, this will your first time killing someone. Do not feel guilty and go."


    Najie didn''t respond right away and after few breathing, she finally dashing towards the bandits. Unsheathing her swords, she is lowering her stance and once get closer to one of the bandits. She stabbed his stomach and then retreating.


    Her arrival caught everyone''s attention and the bandits enraged. One of them charging towards Najie but she is unprepared mentally after killed someone.


    "Erona, break him."


    "Gather my spirits coming from my own. Attack!" A spirit shot out towards the coming bandit. The spirit entering the bandit''s body and suddenly the bandit fell over.


    "How was it?" Evan asked.


    "That man is quite weak. I can keep going." Her attack just made the bandit broken and not dead. Still, if she uses more power, she could kill that bandit right away.


    "Just support Najie, she needs to adapt."


    Erona nodded quietly and watch the Najie fighting the bandits. She is fighting with her body lowered, her movement is fast and rather choose dodging that blocking the attack. Evan could see that she could become a professional dual swordsman and deadly one. Unfortunately, her opponents are bandits. Despite rough and attacking without style, they are strong and on top of that they are males.


    Yet, Najie deflect them and dodging their attacks quickly but unable to land a hit right away. Right now, she is only engaging with one on one and if there is other bandit joining the fight, Erona will deal with him.


    Evan leisurely absorbing the life forces. He come to understanding that it is good to have someone doing the mess and you gain the profit.


    Evan looking at the adventurers, there are ten of them but three have died. They are quite skilled but sadly outnumbered. Now, because there is Najie and Erona, the bandits'' numbers quickly reduced. Although it''s all thanks to Erona.


    "Retreat!"


    The bandit''s leader saw the disadvantage situation and ordering to retreat. However, before they are retreating. Their heads got cut off.


    Fear starting to color the people who saw what was happening. Najie got shivered and looking at Evan, she had high intuition that it was Evan.


    "Theo... what are those coming to you?" Erona asked. She felt restless when saw life forces coming towards Evan.


    "Life force."


    Erona doesn''t know what is life force. But she understands that the life force came out from people after they died. Which makes her thinking it was their souls being absorbed by Evan.


    The broken bandits also got killed by Evan and none left alive.


    "M-Mister Theo, you..." Najie spoke with fear, back then she is looking at Evan with high regards and admiration. But now, it''s full of fear.


    "Najie, remembered what i said before right?"


    Najie of course remembered that Evan wanted to kill the bandits to become stronger. But she never had though that it would be this scary.


    "Get on, we''re going to leave."


    "Y-yes."


    "Please wait!" An adventurer wearing an iron mail armor stood in front of their carriage.


    "Thank you for helping us but you don''t have to kill-"


    "Then, i should let them live and starting making chaos? You are an adventurer, you should understand. Now, move away."


    The adventurer doesn''t have anything to say and steps away from the carriage''s path. Clearing evil must end to the root, if not, the evil will spread. If the root pulled, at least, it will take longer for a new seed to come.


    "Theo, where do we go next?"


    "Alainstein, Omunda mountain."


    "Alainstein? That will take us more than a month!" Najie shouted.


    "Hm, really? It''s really far huh."


    Omunda mountain, that''s where Kolan lived. Evan never expect that he will go to Alainstein, at least when he arrives there, he must greet new Undead king''s servant a visit.

 Exam

    Time passed fast and they entering the exam day. First exam is written exam, nothing so special about it since the second exam which is capability exam is the hardest.


    There are more than 2000 people entering the exam but only 200 that will be accepted in the academy.


    "There is so many people." Noel spoke in enthusiasm. They are now inside the front yard of the academy. It''s a wide yard and many buildings around. They are heading to first hall for the exam.


    The exam will have four shifts. Today and tomorrow, two shifts for a day. Luckily Noel and Clara got the first shift.


    "Well, look who''s coming." A familiar taunting voice coming at them. Noel frowned and had sour expression, he cursed his luck to meet Glein in this moment.


    Glein stood in front of them with smile, he staring at Noel then looking at Clara.


    "Look at you! You got the black fire already? Aren''t you greedy? First, Felicia and now Clara? Well, you''re amazing N-O-E-L."


    "What do you want Glein? Are you just coming to greet for this?"


    "Oh? Look at you, such scary face." Glein laughed after looking Noel''s angry face.


    "You! Watch your tongue!" Clara spoke, she got angry for Noel.


    "Hm? So, what? You''re going to burn me?" Glein spoke in taunting manner.


    "Just to make things clear. I''m not even afraid of you. Black fire or whatever it is, it''s just something i can take down." He said to Clara while laughing


    Clara slightly surprised that Glein didn''t afraid of her and wondering what kind of power he had. Glein looks to Noel and says, "Noel, the king, your father and Falecia with her father will come to this city. Felicia is worried to death about you."


    He then clicked his tongue and turned his body, "If you''re cheating from Falecia, you''ll be dead like a dog." He walks away and waving his hand.


    "Who is he?" Clara asked.


    "Glein, he is son of duke in my kingdom."


    "What kind of power does he has?"


    "Gravity, he controls gravity within his range. If he said, he didn''t afraid then it might be true. He is very strong strong back then."


    "But you''re become strong too."


    Noel shook his head and says, "Glein isn''t just talk. He is also not ordinary, he is hard worker too, i doubt that he is just lazing around instead of working hard too. If i become stronger, the he will too."


    Noel clearly knows about Glein. The first person he went into an enemy in instant. The man who looking down upon him no matter what and he is true of himself.


    ''But Glein...''


    But he also knows that Glein is limiting himself. A known and yet nobody expecting him, he is like light but also a big shadow beneath people.


    ''Father said do not look down upon Glein. Because his family can upturn the kingdom. But, it''s nothing i can do about it. I don''t want being look down upon him. I want to stand against him.''


    The exam begins and the time limit is two hours. For people who didn''t study well, it might be hard, for people who study well it might easy. Some questions can only be answered by logic; some questions purposely didn''t have the answer.


    "Phew, that''s quite hard." Noel stretching his body after the exam. He is working his brain to the limit when answering the questions.


    "How about you Clara?"


    "It was easy." Clara looks rather indifferent as if the exam is nothing at all.


    "Seriously?"


    "Yes, it''s not that hard compared to scholar exam."


    "Wait, did you participate in scholar exam?"


    "I didn''t, but i know at least."


    There are people who didn''t pursue power in physical or magic. Rather they choose to broaden their knowledge and become a scholar. The scholars also struggling by fighting with words and their knowledge. The scholars might be able to work in official administration, in any case, they are very required for each kingdom, organization or guild.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Anyway, shall we get something to eat?" Clara offered.


    "Sure."


    Both of them went to certain cafe in a plaza and sits on the outside of the cafe while watching a show.


    "The festival sure light up the people."


    "Yeah."


    The show is puppet show. Many children gathering to watch and some adults accompanying them.


    The curtain of the show opened and begin.


    "Long long ago, in desperation. Three heroes were summoned to this world. They who hold the almighty powers asked to save the world.


    Three puppets coming out from below, a woman and two men.


    "First hero, Tanya. Beautiful hero whom holds her sword straight and facing the countless enemies. She possessed demi-god ability and no one can match her."


    "Second hero, Reifu. A man of mystery. The master of magic and elements. Dozens of magics he could cast and countless enemies he could wipe out."


    "Third hero, Wayne. A man of righteous, he holds his justice as he swings down his halberd. Possessed terrifying physical and magic abilities. He overcome anything coming at him."


    "Reifu is a mysterious man?" Noel asked in disbelief.


    "Yes, Hero Reifu is a hero that rarely meet and talk with people. He often secluded himself in his laboratory and adventuring the world alone. Even his relationship with the other heroes are not quite good except with Tanya." Clara explained.


    "Why is that?"


    "Hero Reifu claimed that Hero Wayne''s idealism is too naive in this world. He said that his idealism can''t be created in this world in instant and mustn¡¯t be forced."


    "What''s the idealism?"


    "Free slavery, unification of world, no discrimination."


    Noel didn''t comment on that. For him, he also wished for that too but the idealism is hard to achieve or maybe close a utopia.


    "What about his relationship with Tanya?"


    "Their relationship was quite harmonious. Hero Tanya said to be a mature woman in emotional. She thinks what is the best and not following her emotion unlike Hero Wayne."


    Noel nodded and looking at the show. Three heroes are pictured fighting against countless soldiers of dark king. From the history book, the war is so devastating but in the show, of course it wasn''t told about how devastating the war is.


    After slaying down the dark king, dark army are being pushed back to dark world and peace returned to the world. The heroes went separated ways but keep continuing to help the world.


    "The continuation, Hero Tanya researching how to return to her own world, Hero Reifu spent his time with Rivast the dragon, Hero Wayne is trying to spread out his idealism. Eventually, disaster was brought by Hero Wayne and Hero Reifu comes to stop him along with Hero Tanya. At that time... the three heroes died." Clara spoke in regret.


    "Died? How did that happen?" Noel didn''t read about the heroes¡¯ history since he didn''t really interest about them.


    "Hero Tanya died to protect the people, Hero Reifu died because of betrayal, Hero Wayne killed by Hero Reifu.¡±


    Noel didn¡¯t believe it. The heroes died sounds very tragic. But he is curious why Reifu died by betrayal. But when asked that, Clara shook her head.


    The second exam, capability exam. Two halls are being used and now the examinees are waiting for the exam to begin.


    "Before the exam begin, we would like to tell you the explanation."


    "You will be thrown into dream state. Time differs in there and all you need to do is to defeat others!"


    "First, you will throw with your current equipment. Second, defeated in the dream state resulted you will wake up. Third, defeating someone result 100 points, if you manage to enroll in the academy, the points will give an advantage to buy necessary. The exam will keep continue until few of you remain or once we interfere."


    "The test! Begin!"


    At once, they entering the dream state. Noel arrived inside a forest. He looking around him and noticed that he is alone, he remembered that next to him is Clara but now he is alone.


    ''This is dream state but our power still limited just like in the real life.''


    Noel creating a small fire on his palm and looking at his surroundings.


    ''Defeating someone will get me 100 points. This forest is a good one.''


    The fire getting bigger and spread out like jumping rabbits to the trees. Noel controlling the fire and increase the forest burning process. Noel turned himself into a fire bird and flew inside the burning forest. He didn''t manage to get his clothes didn''t get burned so he just have to cover his body with fire.


    ''Fire is myself, fire is my senses!''


    Whenever the fire made contact with others, Noel could felt their presences and heading towards his first target.


    "How did a fire-"


    His target shocked by the fast fire burning the forest. Noel appears in front of him and kicked him with then devour him with fire.


    "Good." Noel felt relieve that he manages to take down the first one. Amongst the people who made contact with his fire, few able to block the fire and someone manage to take down few trees around him and didn''t let the fire coming at him.


    Noel know this person, the one he wants to stand up against, Glein. He gritted his teeth and rushing towards Glein in his fire bird form.


    Glein stood on the barren round land with diameter 60 meters. He noticed something wasn''t right with the burning forest and someone coming at him.


    "Well, who did expect for you to come at me?" Glein spoke with smile as Noel appeared in front of him.


    "Glein."


    "Noel, you did the burning. Good job, but i think that''s too pitiful."


    "Glein, i''ll challenge you!"


    "Hm?" Glein had indifferent expression as if he didn''t pay any attention towards Noel.


    "Challenge? Do you think you dare?"


    "I am!"


    "Kneel."


    In instant Noel''s body became heavy and kneeling on the ground. Noel expected that he will get pressured but didn''t expect that the pressure is stronger than he thought.


    Noel covered by fire and flew towards Glein, his fire bird form released from the gravity. But Glein had indifferent face still. He raised his palm towards Noel and says, "Grav blast."


    Noel blown away and turned back into human form.


    "Wow, i just think about it. Your clothes, are you very poor that you made your clothes with fire."


    "Ughh..."


    "Seems like despite you can change your form into fire, your core is still human affected by weight. My hypothesis is correct. Now, i shall start disciplining you."


    "No way!"


    Noel flew towards the sky and his fire is brighter than before. He stopped under the bright of the sun and descemding towards Glein at fast speed. Fire spread out from him and cloaking the sky away from Glein.


    "You never learn, did you? This is what you call gravity."


    "Guh?!" Noel got stopped in the midair unable to move but he didn''t hesitate to shot fireballs towards Glein.


    Glein used his gravity on his own and being pulled away by the gravity to somewhere else then he flew to the sky.


    Noel free himself again from the gravity and flew towards Glein. But this time the fire birds spread out into ten and coming at Glein with different directions.


    "And this is what they call... Total submission."


    Noel whom in the real fire bird got pressed to the ground and other birds disappeared right away.


    "Damn..."


    Noel tried to struggle but the pressure is stronger thab before.


    ''Am i unable to stand even against him?''


    ''No! I can''t be defeated like this! I must win! I have to!"


    Green fire burst out from him and changed the color of fire on his body. Glein frowned and watching Noel slowly stood despite being pressured with the gravity.


    "Amazing." He muttered.


    "I can''t let you disqualified in this exam." He pulls away the gravity from Noel and flew higher.


    "Noel! Seems like you got an amazing power! That power has changed my mind, don''t lose or or i will crush you."


    "What? Wait!"


    In instant, Glein flew away at fast speed. Noel is confused for why Glein let him go. Frustration, regret, but also gladness coming to him. He is frustrated ans regretted that he couldn''t defeat Glen but also glad that he is still standing. Glein extinguish the fire on his body and took out set change of clothes.


    To save up his mana, he will not use the transform and fight with sword for now.


    On other hand, Clara is watching the forest burning from top of a cliff and smiling.


    "That Noel..."


    The only person she knows to be able to use fire magic is Noel. Unless, there is other people that able to use fire magic so powerful.


    "Haaa... but nobody tried to come at me." She is kind of sad that he didn''t encounter other examinees. She is not skilled in ambush attack and each time the others saw her, they ran away.


    "Hm?"


    Clara focusing her eyes on her left side. Thunders storming around and spreading like fire.


    "Amazing but scary. I''d never see someone able to use thunder so massively."


    She walks away and start searching for her target. Who knows if she able to find them or not.

 Temporary companion

    Gimina passage.


    Evan is driving the carriage with Erona while Najie polishing her sword inside. Gimina passage is a shortcut way to Alainstein, by passing through dangerous passage and many monsters lurking around, it was not favorable at all. However, to arrive quickly at Alainstein. Evan choose every shortcut path he has.


    "Theo, i already finished scouting." Erona spoke, "Monsters are looking at us as if waiting for us to encounter something bad. However, the monsters only work in their own group, no mixed group."


    Using her ''Magic spirit'' she is scouting around the carriage. She is praticing very hard to be able developing her ''Magic spirit'' into highest level. Her ''Magic vision'' also developed quite well.


    "Good, is there any undead?"


    "No, why?"


    "Just asking."


    "Mister Theo, if they are going to ambush us. Will you join the fight?" Najie asked by popping her head out.


    "No, i wouldn''t. You and Erona are enough to handle average monsters alone. But if there are undead, i''ll join." Evan answered.


    "Why? What''s wrong with undead?" Najie starting to become curious why if there are undead that he will join.


    "Erona''s magic wouldn''t be able to kill undead or knock them down. She also couldn''t possess undead at her level right now. Undead is tireless and who knows if they could wake up anytime, their variations also make the situation turned worse or no."


    "Mister Theo is really knowledgeable with undead. What are you actually? I don''t believe if Mister Theo is only wild mage." Najie gave her suspicious towards Theo and Erona also agreed with that.


    "I can''t tell you two. Not yet, unless you also willing to accept my power too."


    "Huh? Power? Too?" Najie shifted her gaze towards Erona and saw her slightly blushed and made her thinking something odd.


    "W-what kind of power are you going to give to me?"


    "Who knows? If i give you my power, it is random result depending on your own."


    "H-how is the process?"


    Evan raised his eyebrow and staring at Najie. She couldn''t look at his eyes and looking away.


    "Do you want it?"


    "Ah, uh, i don''t know... i''ll be going inside."


    After she returned inside, Evan sighed. If she asked his bestowal. His power will be reduced to 30%. Unless he has many life forces and death forces, he could increase his strength once power once again.


    "Theo, goblins are coming at us." Erona alarmed.


    "Take the range ones first. Najie, prepare."


    Najie quickly equip her equipment and once the carriage stopped, she is coming down and unsheathe her swords. On the other hand, Erona using her spirit taking down each long ranged goblin.


    ''If i could absorb their life forces too.'' Evan sighed. He is wondering why he unable to absorb monsters'' life forces but he believes that monsters'' life forces could be absorbed.


    When the goblins coming closer, Najie quickly take them out with her fast movement and direct attack on vital spots. Although outnumbered, she is able to maintain her own pace.


    "Theo, the goblins have a mage. I can''t kill it." Erona spoke. Her spirit could kill a mage but a mage that has strong mentality and magic ability couldn''t be easily killed.


    "Then, focus helping Najie." Evan shifted his gaze towards where the goblin mage is and casted wind cutter. In instant, the goblin mage beheaded without no one noticed.


    "Uh... Theo, another monster seems taking this opportunity to attack us." Erona is frustrated that more monsters coming. Just goblins already draining her magic and if there are more monsters, she would be total exhausted.


    "Clear the path Erona. Najie, go back inside."


    Najie nodded and went back inside. Afer the path cleared from monsters, they start moving again at fast speed.


    "Najie, drive the carriage." Evan entering the carriage and walks to the back of the carriage while watching kobolds running at them.


    "Raise."


    The dead goblins stood up and start attacking the kobolds. The fight turned disastrous and they didn''t try to chase the carriage anymore.


    "Theo, what did you do?" Erona spoke in fear, she used her vision to see what was happening behind them. Evan turned his head and looking at her.


    "Not yet." He spoke and returned to the driver seat.


    After passing through the Gimina passage, they are arrived in a village at night.


    "Welcome travelers, i''m the village chief. Do you people want to stay here?" A man around forty greeted them.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    "Yes, we would like to stay here till morning and we will depart again."


    "Alright, if you need our help. Please come to my house. We will help you with all we got."


    "Yes, thank you."


    They staying in an empty house which provided for a visitor. The girls are very tired and quickly get rest. Sleeping in the carriage is very rough and uncomfortable, they lacked sleep. But, Najie suddenly brought up something.


    "Did Erona accept your power?"


    "Yes."


    "Then... do you guys have done it?" With slight blush and burying her face to the bed.


    "What?" Evan staring at her with confusion.


    "You know... that..." with ambiguous explanation, Evan didn''t understand what she means.


    "Just make it clear, say it."


    "Mister Theo! You want a girl says it?" A flustered and embarrassment expressed on her. Despite she had worst experience, she is still shy about it.


    "Wait... where are this going to? I''m just giving her my power, nothing else."


    "The process... how?"


    "It is painful."


    "Painful..." her mind floating to what Evan didn''t expect with. Either she is so imaginative to think of that or it is because her experience.


    "Do you also want it?" Evan asked indifferently.


    "Wha- but but... Erona is here."


    "Is there something to hide about it?"


    Najie almost chocked herself, she didn''t know if Evan is such a man or he is just bluffing to be such a man.


    "Uuh... you two are sure noisy." Erona woke up while rubbing her eyes.


    "E-Erona!" Najie startled.


    "Theo is right, there is nothing to hide about and it''s not like what you think Najie. Please throw away what are you thinking right now."


    "Ah? Really?"


    "I suggest you to accept his power too. I think it is for the best."


    Najie turned her head towards Evan and staring at him for a long time.


    "Fine... how do we do it?" Somewhat reluctant, she is still agreed on it.


    "Take off your clothes and lie down on the bed reversely."


    Najie had an expression showing ''I know something is fishy'' but she is just followed what she told to and lie down on the bed. Evan walks to her and did the same to Erona towards her.


    "Guh?!"


    Painful, Najie felt herself being sucked and her consciousness is like a ship on the raging sea. After Evan pulled out the black ice, he created ''Eternal covenant'' on her.


    "Is it done?" She asked with weak tone.


    "Yes, now, i''m going to tell you half of the truth of who am i." Evan took of the cloth which covering his face. The girls had slight shocked expression.


    "I thought you are a middle age man!" Najie bluntly said it.


    "I''m just sixteen years old."


    "What?! Two years older than me?" Erona got shocked.


    "Same age? How is this possible? You''re so tall." Najie had her doubt on him.


    "Believe it or not, i''m sixteen. Also, my real name is Evan but call me Theo when with other people."


    "But why you just told us the half?" Najie asked.


    "I''ll tell you two once we meet my old ser- companion." Evan smiled and sits back again.


    Najie staring at him for a while and then tried to feel the difference inside her body. She felt that her mana is clearer than before. Her mana is increasing greatly and her vision is more focused than before. But, her body feels weak and she soon slumbering to her sleep.


    The next day, they woke up and ready to leave but the village suddenly changed. The once well-built village turned into ruined village which looks like had not been taking care for years.


    "What''s happening?" Erona asked with worry.


    "Illusion? Mister Theo, can you break it?"


    "Interesting."


    "Huh?"


    Evan is examining the surrounding. This not an illusion but rather they are sent to a different man made dimension. The person who made this dungeon seems strong and had a cooperation with the villagers.


    ''But what''s the reason?'' Evan wanted to know why they are being brought to this dimension. But he couldn''t come up with exact reason.


    A man appeared in front of them, shrouded with darkness and he is staring at Evan coldly. He has black robe with a pauldron and gauntlets. A black sword on his hand giving a bloodthirsty feeling.


    "I saw what you did there, necromancer." The man spoke.


    "You saw me? Ah, right. But who are you?" Evan didn''t expect that he got busted when raised the undead when at Gimina passage. He feels that the man in front of him is stronger than him.


    "A sinner like you shouldn''t know my name! Die!" The man swings his sword and a dark red slash coming at Evan.


    Evan was displeased by this man''s attitude but he keeps himself calm and created an earth wall to block the slash.


    "Care to tell me who you are? I''m might be a sinner but not all necromancers have bad intention."


    "Rise the dead already bad intention! Dark judgement!"


    Dozen dark red swords coming down towards Evan. He used ''Wind cutter'' to clash with all the swords.


    "You hated me quite deep even though this is our first-time meeting. Care to tell who you are?" Evan asked again, he had bitter taste to not know his opponent''s name.


    "...."


    "At least, let these girls leave this place. They had nothing to do with necromancing."


    "Fine."


    "Theo-"


    "Mister-"


    Erona and Najie was unable to speak due to shock and disbelief that Evan is a necromancer but when they know that they are going to leave the dimension, they wanted to ask the truth.


    "Good, they''re gone. At least i can fight without worry."


    "A necromancer has worry towards living being? How funny, you are really a hypocrite."


    "Well... i am, aren''t us hypocrites? Sin against sin in the name of justice. Not use talking about idealism, let''s fight."


    "You are nothing without your corpses!" The man dashed towards Evan and launch a huge horizontal swing. It cuts Evan into halves but it was snow.


    "Amazing speed, i didn''t expect for you to be that fast." Evan complimented with smile. He didn''t expect to get cut and used his magic to escape.


    "Three magics? What kind of necromancer are you?!" The man spoke in rage despite his face looks icy.


    "Not ordinary one." Evan shrouded in small tornado and his appearance changed. A bone staff with a skull on the top and a crystal on the mouth held on his hand, he is wearing fur clothes with red cloak and red hood. His face covered with plain white mask with only two holes for his eyes.


    "Changing your appearance doesn''t change your-"


    Stab.


    "Fate?" Evan spoke in calm after he casted several earth spikes stabbed that man and covering his foots in the ground.


    "Ngh-"


    "I won''t let you."


    The ground rising up and swallowing the man but that man broke out and jump towards Evan with dark aura around him. Evan didn''t move and let that man coming at him.


    "Die!"


    That man thrust his sword towards Evan but unexpected by him, Evan steps forward and allow himself to be stabbed.


    "Wha-" before finished, Evan touched his forehead.


    "Mind read."


    Paldus Umbra, a secret member of Union to hunt down evil threat. On task to investigating about short winter in spring. He saw Evan''s carriage being chased by monsters and was about to help until Evan raised the dead. He quickly made contact with nearby village and attempt to catch or kill Evan.


    Evan smiled and says, "Mr. Paldus Umbra, Union huh. Well, your secret is mine."


    Paldus shocked and retracted his sword from Evan and took steps away. But then Evan appeared in front of him and choked Paldus.


    "I tell you a secret Paldus. Alainstein is the hideout of the new Undead king. If you didn''t kill him, massive number of undead will swarming out." Evan didn''t know if there is really a massive number of undead within the new Undead king, he tried to act all knowing.


    "I''m not a threat to you and neither are you to me. Union still needs someone moving in the shadow just like you and it is a pity for you to die." Evan throw Paldus away and he hits the ruined house.


    "You too should think of your sister." Evan smiled. Despite hidden behind the mask, Paldus could felt that Evan is smiling but was bit overthinking that he is smiling like a devil.


    "She is protected by the Union."


    "But Union can''t stand against me."


    "A mere necromancer like you is nothing."


    "But a thousand undead is something."


    Pladus doesn''t know anything to say but keep staring at Evan till Evan sighed and says, "You know, let''s do this. I''ll guide you to one of Undead king''s location. Even if you couldn''t find the result of old king, it would be best to hinder the new king."


    "Why do you propose this to me? Do you have some bad relationship with the new Undead king?" Paldus asked. To him, necromancers will gather under Undead king''s banner. But a necromancer in front of him is not like that or he might be trying to lure him into a trap.


    "How can i be sure that you''re not going to lie on me?"


    "Shall we make a magic promise? I''m willing and in exchange, you mustn''t attack me and my companions, also helping me to save my comrade."


    "Alright. You will lead me to the location. But why you propose this to me?"


    "Related to Union. The Union will interfere Undead king and slowing down their plan." Evan didn''t wish for the new Undead king to be crushed yet. It would be a pity and Evan would like to feel how does it feel to absorb death force from an Undead king.


    Afterwards, they began magic promise by pour their drop of bloods into a vial and casted magic on it. If one of them broke the promise, that person will be punished.


    They returned back to the real village and found Erona and Najie waiting with worries.


    "Theo!" Erona hugging Evan tightly. Evan was surprised that Erona suddenly hugging him and he didn''t forget that Erona still has a trauma for skinship and yet she is hugging him.


    "Mister Theo! That person." Najie glaring at Paldus with her both hands ready unsheathe the sword.


    "Relax, he is friendly and we share same goal."


    "Goal?"


    "Shall we talk it later? We need to depart."


    Najie didn''t pursue any further until they departing, but she is keep staring at Paldus with hostility. Once they are leaving the village, Evan begin to tell them.


    "My goal is to save my comrade under Undead king''s hand while his goal is to stop Undead king. Also, i''m a necromancer."


    "So what he said was true? You lied to us?" Najie lips slightly trembling.


    "No, i didn''t? But maybe yes, i said i was a wild mage so it can be considered a lie." Evan afraid that the girls'' attitude will change towards him. He is afraid that they will distance themselves from him.


    "Even if you''re a necromancer or Undead king, i''m fine with it." Erona spoke indifferently. This almost make Evan choked, he didn''t believe that she would say ''Undead king''.


    "I...." Najie still in trouble and couldn''t looking at Evan''s eyes.


    "Take your time Najie, i won''t force you." Evan smiled. His appearance changed into casual Theo''s appearance. Although he said that, he already done ''Eternal covenant'' on her. Willing or not, she is bound to be his servant.


    "Theo... where is the location?" Paldus asked. His face didn''t change at all, calm and dark.


    "At Alainstein."


    "Alright..."

 Short trouble

    Several days later, they took another shortcut. It''s called ''Ghost forest'', said where all unrest souls scattered. Almost no one dare to enter this forest because of the high risk. Ghost is categorized as a spirit monster and it''s hard to defend against. Material object can be penetrated by them except magic items. They also will come by surprise or tried to possess somebody.


    "All ghosts might be coming at us." Paldus spoke while looking around.


    "M-Mister Theo, do we really have to go with this route?" Najie''s face is ashen, she is clearly scared towards a ghost.


    "We have to. We need to arrive quickly."


    "B-but ghost? Really?"


    "Don''t worry, you could use this." He gives her a sword he found inside a balloon ship which is a magical sword.


    "Will it really work?" She asked again in doubt.


    "If you want more, you can apply your magic to the sword. Oh, can you use magic?"


    "I can, but i rarely use it and i''m not that good but since..." Najie blushed as she recalled the night at the village.


    "Don''t worry, your mana significantly increased. If you train harder, you can use your magic well. What''s your magic?"


    "Dimensional magic."


    "That''s unique magic." Paldus spoke, "If you able to use it, basically you are already good with magic. Perhaps if you changed your magic..."


    "Don''t change it. Just stay with it and improve it. Dimensional magic is fatal magic, if you able to master it, even undead won''t do much against you."


    "Okay, i''ll improve it. But, without book?"


    This is the problem of mage; they need to study from a book or from a person. Normal mage would follow the textbook or someone teaching and rarely improve their magic by experimenting.


    "Chantless, and experiment with it. Have Erona helping you."


    "Okay." Najie had troubled expression, she is doubting herself whenever she could do it or not.


    Then, at night. The girls are sleeping and Evan with Paldus is staying awake.


    "Mr. Paldus, why did you accept my proposal? Isn''t that better for you to kill me?"


    Paldus was silent and looking at Evan with cold eyes, ¡°First, you read my mind. I don''t know how much information you obtained from me but surely it will make me at disadvantage. Second, you didn''t die when i stabbed you. As far as i know, either you already made contract with a devil, hiding your heart somewhere else or already an undead thus making me at disadvantage too. Third, your physical body is strong, imagine if you become serious. Fourth, you seem didn''t want any trouble and these girls are trusting you. You''re not a bad necromancer."Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    "Is there any differentiation between bad and good necromancer?"


    "No, but i think yes for now."


    For now, that''s mean later Evan will become a bad necromancer in his eyes. Suddenly, Paldus squinted his eyes and in high alert. Evan also stopped the carriage and woke the girls.


    "They''re coming, do you have a plan Theo?" Paldus asked.


    "I do, the girls will fight along with you."


    "What about you?" Paldus looks displeased.


    "I''m watching the situation. The girls need to get stronger, we might separate and who knows when. At least, they need a power to be able to protect themselves."


    "You''re throwing your responsibility to me."


    "Hahaha, please take care of them."


    The atmosphere suddenly went to chilling. Paldus and Najie get off from the carriage and ready their swords. Paldus glanced at Najie and noticed her nervousness.


    "Hey girl." He spoke, "Think a ghost just like flying transparent clothes."


    Najie didn''t speak but nodding her head. She casted her magic on her swords and they shrouded by thin black aura. It is her dimensional magic applied to the sword.


    Paldus dashed towards the incoming ghost, without hesitation he slashed the ghost and exterminate it. His movement is fast and relentless; no movement is wasted and meant to kill. Evan though that Paldus is truly fitting the dark side of Union.


    On the other hand, Najie swings her sword once the ghost coming at her but she is not moving from her place at all. Her reaction is bit slow and the ghost didn''t exterminate by one slash.


    "Erona, help Najie."


    "Yes." Erona spread out her magic spirits and attacking some ghosts that coming near the carriage and Najie. Her spirits clashing with the ghosts and some of the ghosts disappeared once clashed but there is also both spirit and ghost disappear or the ghost didn''t disappear rather the spirit was the one disappear. It''s like Erona''s spirit is middle level and when it encounters low level ghost, it exterminated the ghost but once encountered same level, both will disappear and once encountered high level, the spirit will the disappear instead.


    "Theo, the ghosts are gathering to one ghost. What are they doing?"


    "The one ghost might be stronger than others and in command of the other ghosts. They are uniting to become stronger one."


    "Paldus! Exterminate the strongest one before united!"


    Paldus nodded and dashing towards where the ghosts are gathering. One ghost has red fiery aura and looks very strong. Once it saw Paldus, it howled and all plants around 5-meter radius turned into dead plants. Paldus staggered for a moment before moving again, but the ghost already united and let out bloodthirsty aura. In instant, it moving forwards Paldus and grabbing his neck. But Paldus also reacted and cut the ghost''s hand and retreating few steps. The ghost''s hand recovered and it starting to howl again.


    The ghost casted a curse towards Paldus but he got protection necklace and safe from the curse. He dashed towards the ghost and swings his sword down. The ghost splits into two and blast Paldus away.


    Paldus blasted away to the carriage, however his body didn''t sustain any injury.


    "Theo, that ghost is strong. Quite intelligent."


    "Can you defeat it?"


    "I don''t know. Although i''m prepared against spirit type but that ghost is too strong."


    "Alright, i''ll lend you a hand. Protect the girls." Evan get off from the carriage and looking at the incoming ghost.


    ''I wonder if i could capture it. Undead king''s power not just for undead.''


    Evan slowly walking towards the ghost without different face. But the ghost welcoming with anger and coming at him at fast speed. But then the ghost stopped before reaching Evan, it tried to reach Evan but unable to as if it is being held by something.


    "Let''s see... what makes you become a ghost."


    Evan''s eyes flashed and he entering the ghost. But it wasn''t only one ghost, rather it was all ghosts inside it. These ghosts were born because their deep hatred, long before this place called ''Ghost forest'' it was a place where a certain kingdom''s rebel hiding. Their rebellion only opposing their current king and nothing else but what they received was complete slaughterer. No mercy, children or adults killed without hesitation. Not long after that, they became a ghost and accumulated great hatred inside them and attacking the passerby.


    Unable to leave the forest, they are forced to remain and unable to fulfill their hatred. Many years passed and now their revenge can''t be put at ease.


    ''Such strong hatred could result incredible monster. But it''s unstable and only driven by madness. But, it''s worth to keep it.''


    Evan taking out a necklace from his dimensional storage and starting to cast magic. The ghost realized something bad and attempt to escape, but unable to and being sucked to the necklace.


    The ghost trapped inside the necklace and it showing red glow. Evan put the necklace back to the storage and returns to the carriage.


    "You didn''t kill it; did you capture it?" Paldus asked.


    "Sealed it, it will come handy in the future."


    "Indeed... you''re far stronger than me."


    Evan shrugged his shoulder after heard that. He might be stronger than Paldus in terms of magic. But in terms of physical and technique, he is very lacking.


    They continuing their journey to the Alainstein without worries anymore.

 Two meet

    Sword and daggers clashing to each other. In dream realm, Noel is fighting against an opponent who is skilled with daggers Noel''s instinct is at high level and focusing towards his opponent.


    His opponent is an elf girl. She wore hardened leather armor, two daggers on her both hands. She is far skilled than Noel and very agile.


    Their fight began twenty minutes ago and none of them are using magic to fight. Both sides are exhausted and none of them are advantageous.


    "Let''s stop this." Noel spoke slowly lowering his sword.


    "Agree, nothing benefits." She also lowered her daggers and breathe deeply.


    "I''m Noel Rishawd, what''s your name?"


    "Not telling to a stranger." She puts her daggers in the scabbard and walks away. Noel tried calling her few times but she didn''t stop and eventually already far away.


    Noel sighed. He didn''t know how long time has passed in real world but in this world, it''s already three days. He fought many people and continuously won. His tactic is to avoid thunder than often coming down. From what he knows, the thunder was appear by someone doing and such powerful thunder means that person is very powerful and Noel would like to avoid it with any cost.


    Noel didn''t meet Clara yet, either they missed each other or she is really far away. Noel wants to reunite with her to make a team. There are several people making a team to ensure their standing in this exam. But mainly, they are consisted individuals whom feeling pressured in this exam or seeking safety and lack of confidence.


    Though Noel is alone, he is not confidence against strong opponent. Just like against Glein and the elf girl. They are strong although the elf girl only showing her physical combat. To be honest, Noel wanted to hide and refrain from fighting all the time. He is not a fight maniac and stressed by keep fighting all the time.


    "Hm?" Noel saw someone being surrounded by few people. He sneakily went hiding and get a good look at them.


    ''Six against one? How unfair''


    Noel hates group against one fight, but he couldn''t help that. The weak will gather to beat the strong one, but strong ones also could gather to bull they weak one.


    Watching the man who got surrounded by the six people. Noel wanted to help but he noticed that something is weird.


    The man who is alone smiling wickedly then in flash moment, the six people fell down. Noel was shocked and his heart stopped for a moment. He saw what was happened but it''s very fast. The alone man single-handedly defeated them.


    That mean wearing fur clothes with messy blonde hair and fierce red eyes. Electrics dancing around his body and suddenly his gaze locked at Noel.


    ''Shi-''


    Noel instant crouched down. The tree which is the cover to hide was instantly cut down and burning. Noel wanted to run but that man already coming closer to him.


    "Fire!"


    Noel changed into fire bird and flew to the sky. In panic state, he doesn¡¯t know what to do against the fast enemy. He thought he was safe on the air but that man coming at Noel like a rocket and thrusting a sword shaped thunder. Noel dodged and launched several fireballs but that man instantly went into stagnant on the air and an electricity ball with three meters¡¯ width appear and blocking all the fireballs.


    That man falling down but his hand raise up to the sky and then he brings it down. At once, a thunder roaring and tearing the sky to come at Noel.


    "Gah!"


    Noel instantly struck down and hits the ground mercilessly. Fortunately, he manages to stand quickly and looking at his current opponent.


    ''Terrifying power and speed. I must be careful.''


    Just after thinking that, that man once again coming at Noel. Unable to react, he thought he will end up defeated but then a black fire coming at them and make a wall, splitting away their standing.


    "Noel! Retreat!" Familiar voice, Clara with an iron staff make a guard stance. Fire swirling around her as if ready to attack anytime. Noel manage to smile and retreating towards her.


    "Noel, you''re survive... thank goodness. That man is the strongest person in this exam." Clara spoke with warm smile then turned into grim one.


    "The strongest?"


    "His name is Faiz, very powerful and absurd in way of fighting. As you can see, he is lightning wielder and very fast. But his consumption rate must be high and he will get exhausted eventually."


    "Do you have a plan?" Noel asked quickly once he saw Faiz locking at them.


    "Yes, he can''t attack continuously and that time is now. He wanted to finish you with one attack but since i disturbed him, he frantically stopped and forced back his lightning into himself. Either he manages to hit you or not, he will not attack with lightning for a while."


    Noel understood that is the reason why Faiz only looking at them.


    "We need to weaken him if we want to him. But if the situation is dangerous, we will retreat."


    "Yes."


    Just after finished talking, Faiz coming at them, Clara responded with black fire wall in front of her rising up. However, Faiz jumped the fire wall just an athletic and coming at Clara first. Noel instantly moving to protect Clara by burst out a great fire towards him. He didn¡¯t stop there; Noel give a chase and attacking Faiz with sword but all of his attacks end up missed by agile Faiz.


    Fortunately, Clara blocked Faiz''s movement by using black fire thus unable to avoid Noel''s sword. But Faiz smiled and suddenly throw a punch. Huge shockwave coming at Noel and throw him away. His body felt numb and feeling hazy. Not wasting the opportunity, Faiz coming at Noel.


    Clara wanted to stop Faiz, unexpected by her, Faiz coming at her instead and punched her on stomach. Clara already buffed her body with defense but Faiz''s attack far stronger and resulted her puked blood.


    Although they are in dream state. Pain, exhaustion and other feelings feels real. Faiz shot a lightning to her and numbed her body instantly. Their fight over in instant, plan to exhaust Faiz ruined.


    Faiz walking towards Noel whom lying on a tree. He is staring at Faiz with ambition to hit Faiz''s face.


    "Too bad." Faiz mocked. He raised his fist which creating an electricity.


    ''Damn it!'' Noel cursed himself. He was defeated and couldn''t do anything. Clara was defeated and he is in state of unable to do anything but glaring at Faiz only.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    ''No! I already said i want to become stronger! I''m a fire! I''m the one who controls fire! Ash to flame!''


    Either he was very blessed or luck come upon him. Noel able to move his body and green fire burst out from him. Instantly threatening Faiz to retreat.


    The green fire dancing around like venomous snake and instantly the nearby plants died, not burnt but died. Their leaves went to ashen and then turned into dust. Such phenomenon is something everyone never saw before.


    "I''m Noel Rishawd! I''m the flame! -"


    ''I''m the phoenix!'' Noel wouldn''t dare said this loud because of embarrassment. Even in such crucial moment he still remembers about embarrassment.


    Faiz clicked his tongue and retreated. He is showing angry and displeased face towards Noel. No one know but himself. The green fire is made Faiz uneasy and something inside him is swirling in panic.


    "Damn!" Faiz shouted and suddenly lightning coming at him. Not yellow, blue or red. But golden, golden lightning. He dashed towards Noel and launch a punch.


    Noel who manage to stand received the punch right on his face. The tree behind him broke easily and he is flying away and destroying ten trees. Not finishing there, Faiz coming from above with his kick as trying to wreck Noel.


    But this time, Noel shot a small green firebird and at this time too. Words recited inside his head.


    "Green fire, the devourer of magic. You the wielder of green, do you wished to become a dragon or a human?"


    "I want to become a phoenix! Immortal!" Noel shouted and the green fire flickering.


    "Very well! For you the inheritor of green fire! Become the emperor of flame and reign this world as a phoenix!"


    Noel felt iching pain inside his heart, it starts become warm feeling that relaxing his body and suddenly energized himself.


    Faiz noticed something wrong and let out huge thunders coming at Noel. His movement becomes faster than before, even Noel''s eyes couldn''t catch up with him. However-


    "Green fire domain!"


    The dream state shook viciously and their surrounding changed into barren land where all plants turned into nothing and ring of green fire surrounding them.


    Faiz smiled, not just normal smile he shows very often but a ecstatic smile. Thunders colliding towards Noel, yet his green fire protecting him.


    Faiz didn''t make any physical contact, he is labelled the green fire as dangerous and would avoid any physical contact with it. He already deduced that the trees withered because of green fire and it is possible that animals or even human might die.


    From spectator side, Clara watching them with disbelief. Especially towards Noel whom controlling green fire. She never saw such fire before but she knows that the green fire is extremely strong and dangerous.


    From both Noel and Faiz, none of them dare to move. They just fighting with theirs magics. For Noel, his body might unable to stand another shock and the golden lightning looks very dangerous. Same goes for Faiz too. This is only matter of time for which one of them shall fall in this endurance fight.


    Outside the dream state. The examiners looking at the fight with amaze face.


    "Should we report this to Dragon king?"


    "Will this incur his wrath? That''s a green fire! The previous owner is Osion!"


    Although they didn''t know how Osion defeated. They have the records of Osion as the wielder of green fire.


    "Just report it to the Dragon king. For who knows long, green fire finally emerged. Also... golden lightning, this is exciting."


    "Green fire, golden lightning and black fire. Such amazing powers fall to us. Either this is a sign something great will come or just a bluff for disaster to come.¡±


    When great powers arise, problem also arise. Nobody will expect everything would turn smoothly.


    "But, that girl still didn''t act."


    "Yeah, that girl."


    They recalled a white skinned young girl with beautiful mark below her left eyes. She has long silk like black hair and emerald eyes.


    "If Faiz is the strongest person, Noel is the black horse, then this person is the strongest shadow."


    Faiz took over the spotlight, Noel is fighting over it and the person they mentioned stood in the shadow behind the brightest spotlight.


    "Like wolf waiting for hunting. He will come to hunt these two down."


    Inside the dream state. Noel and Faiz know that there will be no winner amongst them if they didn''t act in different ways.


    Faiz acted first and charging towards Noel. Noel aslo charging at him too and both of them clashed each other. Shockingly, the green fire and golden lightning fighting as if have their own wills. Each time they clashed, Noel felt his body numbed while Faiz felt his body drained. Only matters of time till one of them don''t move and defeated.


    Yet, an x-factor appeared. Both Noel and Faiz felt someone coming at them but they didn''t move instead only looking at same direction. Strong wave pushing them apart like tearing them from each other. Both of them flew away to opposite directions and landed on the ground.


    "Huh?" Noel felt that his body unable to move. Even if he forced to, it won''t move. With his late notice, a needle stuck on his naked body. Same thing happened to Faiz, he is desperate to move but unable to.


    A young girl stood silently with few needles in between her fingers.


    "Now now... that''s enough isn''t?" She smiled and pulled back the needles.


    "You both powers are too strong, i''m afraid the dream state will be affected greatly and disturb it." She sighed and walks to Noel.


    "Good bye." She smiled and instantly Noel''s vision blackout.


    Noel woke up inside the hall from the dream. He didn''t know how did he lose against her. Everything went in abrupt way. When he stood, he saw a familiar face also stood. It was Faiz with curious expression. Both of them was defeated, defeated by someone else and it gave them deep impression of disbelief.


    "Noel Rishawd! Faiz! Do not be sad." The old examiner spoke with smile.


    "Both of you are the strongest in this exam. Yet, against her, i''m afraid it is not."


    "Who is she?" Faiz asked.


    "A secret but she will enroll in this academy too. Now, for advancement, both of you passed the test and accepted to the academy."


    ''Finally!'' Noel felt a joy inside him. He finally entered the academy but somehow he felt something missing.


    ''Right... Evan isn''t here.'' He remembered that they will enter the academy together but, he entering alone. Not really alone since he has Clara with him. But the hollow in his heart still remain.


    Few hours later, the exam finished by examiners'' order. Everyone will have the result in two weeks but Noel and Faiz got early notice.


    "The examiner said that?" Clara asked in disbelief.


    "Yeah, i was shocked but happy and yet sad."


    "Don''t tell me it is about Evan again?"


    "Whoah, you know me very well."


    Clara didn''t answer and turned her head away from Noel, causing him to be curious why she did that.


    "Anyway, Clara. I was defeated by someone, a girl. She is defeated me and Faiz. Did you saw her?"


    "I do." Clara had serious expression. She spectated the moment both Noel and Faiz defeated within a second without resistance. Looking at the young girl around her age back then, she didn''t fell any dangerous aura from her yet she is incredibly strong.


    "Do you know her?"


    "I don''t. I never saw her before and seems like she is also an unknown person just like you.¡±


    Noel to be truth are out of expectation to be the strongest in the beginning. But he showing their powers and obtained that. However, the girl whom defeated them is more mysterious.


    Afterwards, they are waiting for the announcement. They had nothing special to do except training and training. Noel wanted to become stronger, he realized that he is not utilizing his power fully. For the example, the green fire was harder to control than normal fire.


    One week passed, each king finally has come along with the representatives.


    "Father!"


    Noel hugging his father, Count Rishawd. Noguard''s king came along with Count Rishawd and other representatives including Falecia and her father.


    "Hoho! My son! You are crying?! A man mustn''t cry!"


    "Bullshit!"


    Noel himself didn''t know why he is crying. Maybe because he missed his father, maybe because he had gone through a loss of Evan that he needs his father or maybe something else.


    "Son, where is Evan?" Count Rishawd asked, he wanted to meet Evan too but there is no sign of him.


    "He...he..."


    "He died." Glein spoke instead of Noel. He yawned and walks to the king then bowed gracefully.


    "My king, how have you been?"


    "I''m healthy as always." The king laughed and then looking at Noel whom had red eyes.


    "Who is this Evan?"


    "Noel''s bodyguard. He died during the balloon ship incident, no body found. Possibly-"


    "Glein!" Noel shouted and glaring at him but Glein just shrugged his shoulder.


    "Noel, is that true? Evan is dead?" Count rishawd asked with grim expression.


    "I don''t know whether he is dead or not. But i''m believe he is still alive!"


    "On what base?" Glein sneered. Everyone also believed that Evan is dead. There is no proof of him being alive, his body being not found might be already inside monster''s or animal''s belly or possibly becoming an undead. But Noel wouldn''t accept this, he still believes that Evan is alive and yet he can''t refute the fact that he is considered dead.


    "Noel, it''s alright." Falecia hugged him and tapped his shoulder. At once, Glein clicked his tongue and start talking with the king again.


    The representatives of kingdom got their own places to stay. But Noel keep staying in his rented inn because he is not the representative.


    "So, Noel." Falecia grabbed his hand. But it''s not warm grab of sweetness, rather it''s a hot grab of something else.


    "Y-yes?" Noel got terrified at once because of her. Right now, they are walking together, touring the city.


    "I heard you with another woman? Her name... was it Clara Gulstrein? How bold of you." With monotone tone, she said that and then laughing. But that''s makes Noel more scared than before.


    "S-she is just a friend!"


    "Hm, father said men always says that. Eventually this friend becomes your lover. I''d never expect you will become so wolfly."


    In instant Noel kneeled in front of her and says, "Please don''t misunderstand Falecia, the only lover i had is you!"


    "Hm? Then, she is the second lover? How daring."


    "Falecia!"


    Noel felt that he is in grave danger. More dangerous than fighting Faiz or watching the ancient fight. Falecia won''t listen to him and it''s something that makes him terrified. Who knows why he acted like this, as if Falecia holds something dearly to him or maybe he is greatly fall in love with her that he is afraid to make her mad.


    "Oh, a coincidence." She spoke with playful tone. Her eyes directed to in front of her and Noel caught a glimpse of it. He turned his body and saw Clara along with her master.


    ''I''m dead. Evan, save me.''


    Inside a VIP room in a cafe, Noel, Felcia, Clara and Teronna have a meeting or to be precise a judgment towards Noel.


    "Hmm.... i admit, Noel might be enticed by you." Falecia examined Clara but showing no sign of jealousy or displeasure.


    "Thank you, but you are far more alluring than me." Clara spoke back. She never thought meeting and talking with Noel''s fianc¨¦e.


    "Oh, thank you very much but sadly i''m weak and easily get sick. I might not good enough for-"


    "Falecia, you''re good enough." Noel desperately grabbed her hand but then it slipped away from his grasp.


    "Really? I think Clara might be far better than me."


    "She is right." Teronna suddenly spoke up with wide smile. In instant, both Clara''s and Noel''s faces ashen and sweating a lot. Clara is happy but she felt that a storm is coming.


    Noel took a glance on Falecia and noticed a cold stare towards Teronna.


    "I''m sorry, this is matters between young people. Old woman mustn''t interfere."


    In instant Clara''s face went ashen and trembling. Teronna let her cup of tea slipped and crashed on the ground.


    "O-old? I''m young! Look how smooth and there is no wrinkle at all in my face! Look!"


    "Oh right!" Falecia looks surprised and says, "What kind of magic did you use, granny?"


    Teronna''s eyebrows twitched and her hands folded very hard.


    "I''m not granny! I''m not! You hum- ahem." She suddenly stopped and returned to her normal self which makes Falecia lose a smile. Everything was about to get entertaining but turned to be nothing.


    "Alright Noel, let us go home. There is many thing i would like to lecture."


    "Yes..."


    Both of them stood up, Noel glanced at Clara and silently asked for forgiveness and yet she don''t mind it at all.


    "Noel, keep your face up and looks straight." Falecia scolded.


    After they both left. Clara and Teronna let out breath of relief.


    "How did Noel found a girl like her?" Teronna spoke in disbelief.


    "Clara, you mustn''t lose to her! Although she has sharp tongue and composed. You can win against her!"


    "Uh, master... what do you mean actually?"


    "I''m not blind Clara! You clearly fall in love with him! You must realize it!"


    Clara''s face reddened and covered it away from Terrona "He is just a friend! Just... a friend..."


    "Don''t deny it or your heart will be in pain."


    "..."


    Teronna smiled at her and patted her head. She is proud that Clara finally found her first friend and her first love. She is proud that she finally able to feels those experiences.


    ''Master, human is really interesting after all.''

 Business finished, going to neutral zone

    Evan and others finally arrive at Alainstein''s territory. It was after ten days since every kings and representative finally arrived at neutral zone. Three more days till they arrived at Omunda mountain.


    "Alainstein... rumored to be where the Undead king is hiding. Theo, do you wish to meet the Undead king directly?" Paldus asked.


    "No, my goal is to get my comrade back. Besides, it is your job, the Union to clear the Undead king, not mine." Evan didn''t think much about it. Not with his current strength, if he wanted to be confident, he at least had 60% power. He also got Death book and it will be his great weapon. As long as he possessed the book, he could command millions of Undead at once with his eighty percent power.


    "Your comrade, who is he to be exact?"


    "Secret, I wouldn''t tell you about him."


    Paldus didn''t ask further, he is not someone that asking again and again till he gets the answer he wanted.


    "Paldus, you better send a message to the Union."


    "I''ll do that even without you telling."


    "Good." Evan wanted to use the Union as a cover. If the Union gained the upper hand against the new Undead king, this will beneficial for Evan to let the Union taking care the undead. His only goal is to get back Kolan and rebuild their own place to live.


    Three days passed and they finally arrived in Omuna mountain.


    "I''ll go alone, you guys proceed following the road."


    "Isn''t dangerous?" Erona asked with worry.


    "Don''t worry. I''m safer with the undead. I''ll be back soon, just proceeding slowly."


    Without waiting further, Evan left them and entering the forest. His movement faster because using the wind to lift and pushed him. He spread out his vision and hunts down undead in the mountain. He needs death force to converge them with life force in order to get his power back.


    Evan killed the undead swiftly, he could felt that the weak undead is being commanded by a death knight or a lich. He couldn''t stop them from noticing that a lot of undead were defeated. Eventually, Evan encountered them and killed them instantly. Death knight possessed high physical power and slightly lower magic than lich, for current Evan. The death knight is nothing. But the lich is crafty undead and relying on magic, summoning more undead and causing a ruckus for Evan. But they are only low ranks and easily defeated.


    As Evan proceeding, the carriage also got attacked by undead but with Paldus there, none of the undead manages to harm it. Paldus single-handled all undead, as for the girls, they are having a hard time especially Erona. Her magic spirit is couldn''t defeat an undead which has no soul. She tried to possess the undead but her influence is too weak. Najie fighting the undead well but lacked experience, thus slowing down her speed.


    Almost at the top of the mountain. Paldus saw a balloon ship coming with Union symbol. A slight smile on his face but he dares not to relax.


    "Let''s go to the main place, they are waiting." Evan suddenly appeared and shocked three of them.


    "Who are waiting?" Najie asked.


    "Kamna, Undead king''s servant. He is with several thousand-undead hidings in the ground."


    "Good, let''s go." Paldus held no objection and agreed immediately.


    "Really?! Thousand undead?!" Najie got shocked and expressed both girls'' feelings right now. Thousand undead made them trembling in fear.


    They''re moving together to the main location and spying on it. They could see a lot of undead moving around guarding a cave. Evan is sure that Kolan is inside that cave but he didn''t see any sign of Kamna.


    From afar, Evan killed one of the undead and alarmed the others. They start organizing themselves and slowly spread out.


    "Go." Evan ordered. At once, Paldus rushed towards the undead with Najie who hesitated for a moment. Erona staying behind with Evan since she couldn''t help for a moment. She bit her lips and frustrated for not being able to help. Evan noticed this and pat her head.


    "Diligently training, you will be able to use your magic spirit to control undead or even manifest a physical form."


    "Yes." Erona nodded. Ever since she accepted Evan''s power and able to see with magic vision. She is really grateful and wanted to repay but doesn''t know how to do it aside obeying Evan.


    Near seventy undead are fighting against Paldus and Najie. Just like before, Paldus is the one who defeated them the most. Once more undead appearing, Paldus raised his sword to the sky and dark red pillar shot out to the sky. It was a signal for the Union.


    "Let''s go." Evan spoke and took Erona hastily to inside the cave. Inside the cave was guarded by a lot of undead but they instantly died. As he venturing deeper, undead is becoming stronger and stronger.


    Meanwhile, on the outside, Union''s balloon ship stopped above and Union''s soldiers descending down with a woman wearing middleweight white armor with ocean blue cloak. Her eyes are green and her blonde hair tied to a bun. On her arms, there is a helmet and a spear.


    "Everyone! Listen! Slay every undead on your sight!"


    "Yes, commander!"


    With her order, the soldiers moving in unison and in an organized manner. They formed small group consisted five people and attacking in synchro.


    Paldus and Najie starting to retreat and heading towards the woman.


    "Paldus! You have been well!" The woman smiled happily.


    "Lady Risilia, good timing." Paldus bowed for a moment and returned to combat stance.


    "If it weren''t for your information, we wouldn''t have been here. Good job, leave the rest to us."


    "Yes, also, if you found a man and a girl. Do not attack them, they are my comrades."


    "Comrades?" Risilia has disbelief and glancing at Najie for few times. "Really? To think the lonely Paldus would have a friend, Laiya would be very happy."


    Paldus didn''t speak and turned his head towards the undead. But he didn''t move and just watching the fight. Najie did the same, she is only watching but also worrying about Evan and Erona. Later, several death knights and liches appearing and increasing the undead''s strength.


    "Seems like you have to participate," Risilia spoke.


    "You too."


    "Of course." She wore her helmet and rushing towards the undead. Paldus also did the same leaving Najie alone in panic, thinking of joining the fight or not.


    Inside the cave. Evan and Erona arrived in a wide place, not ordinary place because it has polished floor made of bronze, the wall of bronze with pipes and light came from crystals made everything visible.


    In front of them, stood several high ranks undead with Kamna behind them. Kamna has elderly appearance wearing a black robe and a sinister staff made of rare materials. His eyes flashed like a snake.


    "Rude intruders, but your skills are good to arrive in this place already. I didn''t expect it." Kamna spoke.


    "Actually I must kill you. But it is a waste to kill you both, why don''t you-"


    A strong wind coming to Kamna and the undead. The undead quickly raised their defenses and didn''t get injured by the wind.


    "Impudent! I shall kill you!" Kamna enraged and ordered the undead to charge at them. He also cast several snakes to appear.


    "Theo, what should we do?" Erona asked while clinging to him


    "Just take it easy." Evan smiled and speaks with a heavy tone, "Kolan."


    In instant, a golem made of bronze appeared in front of Evan and swings a hammer towards the undead. Kolan stood mightily with two giant hammers. His empty eyes showing blue radiance and glaring at Kamna.


    "Kolan! You showing yourself?! But why now?"


    But Kolan didn''t answer and turned his body to Evan and kneeled. "Master, welcome back, and congratulations."


    Welcome back because he returned to this world and congratulations because he obtained a human body. Evan smiled and told Kolan to raise up.


    Kamna felt something is fishy and couldn''t help but racking his brain to understand Kolan''s behavior till he realizes that Evan is the old Undead king, yet, he is still doubting it.


    "Kolan, if you mind. Clear them all."


    "Obviously." Kolan spoke in heavy yet joyous tone. He starts rampaging against the undead. His bronze skin is impenetrable and not undead could make damage against him.


    "You! Who are you?! Are you the old Undead king?" Kamna pointed at Evan. He is enraged because Kolan starts rampaging and oppose him. Originally, he was sent here to recruit Kolan but unable to meet him because Kolan is hiding all the time. But now, Kolan appeared in front of him and became his enemy. Furthermore, the man in front of him, without doubt, is the old Undead king. Who else could command the old Undead king¡¯s servant were if it not for the king himself.


    "Seven snakes of sins!" Kamna summoned seven heads snake and attacking Kolan. It tried to entangle Kolan and crush its body. But who expects that the place itself is the one which crushing the snake.


    Kamna had an ugly face and tried to retreat, but Erona already interfered with him by attacking him relentlessly with her magic spirits.


    "Insolence!" Kamna fought back and heavily injured Erona''s spiritual and caused her to cough out a blood


    "Heal." Evan recovered Erona''s spiritual but she couldn''t fight back temporally. Luckily for Erona that she manages to hold on against the attack and survived.


    "I''ll crush you!" Kamna cast an unknown magic and the ground heavily shaking. His body transformed into a huge serpent with black scale and red eyes. Four legs coming out and the claws penetrated the bronze floor as if only penetrating a paper.


    Kamna moving ferociously destroying the surrounding and circling around Kolan. Kamna narrowed the circling and eventually sizing up Kolan. Kolan was unable to fight back and lost in strength thus being crushed.


    However, it was not the end, Kolan is melted and the bronze spreading around Kamna''s scale. Kamna could felt that the melted bronze is hardened and trying to crush him, but Kamna didn''t afraid of it and his body suddenly getting bigger. It roared and charging towards Evan.


    Evan put up a magic barrier and grabs Erona. Both of them pushed away till thrown to the outside of the cave. He and Erona flew in the sky, watching the black serpent coming at them.


    "So much death force." Evan muttered, he absorbed many death force thanks to many undead being eliminated. But the balance of life force and death force is weighing to death force.


    ''But it''s enough.''


    At once, Evan combined the death force and life force as one. Leaving some death forces inside. His power instantly surging and expanding. His power increased by 8% and it was in his expectation. With low life force, he couldn''t balance out and get more power.


    Back to reality, Kamna is coming at him and almost tried to devour him. Yet, with one swing his staff, Kamna was thrown away to the ground as if being hit by a meteor.


    Risilia and Paldus were watching from below. Both of them shivered once saw the black serpent but more scared once saw the black serpent being thrown away to the ground. They looking at Evan whom slowly descending down with a relaxed manner.


    "Is that your comrade? Who is he?"


    Paldus hesitated to answer but says, "Theo the wild mage." He won''t tell Risilia that Evan is a necromancer. He knows that the Union wouldn''t tolerate a necromancer and afraid that Evan will kill them. Although he knows that Evan is not someone who kill without reason, he is aware of Evan''s strength.


    "You should recruit him to Union." Risilia spoke. Having another great person in Union would help them established more power to fight against Undead. Paldus didn''t answer and only watching Evan coming at them.


    "Take care of her." Evan spoke while pushing Erona to them. He turned towards Kamna and launch a telepathy to Kolan.


    "Kolan, retreat to your place and prepare for leaving. I suppose you need to prepare for our return."


    "Very well, master. I''m sorry for taking this guy too lightly."


    "Doesn''t matter."


    Kolan who became a melted bronze moving and disappear into the cave once again. Kamna straightens its body and looking at Evan with murderous intent. Yet Evan didn''t waver and only glancing at him for once before suddenly Kamna is pressed down into the ground.


    He glanced at the undead and noticed that they are moving towards Kamna in unison. Evan let them go and then Kamna starts devouring them. Each devours, sinister aura coming out from Kamna and his body beginning to transform. His black scale slowly peeled off and replaced with gray scale. A pair of wings sprouted out and allow him to fly like a dragon.


    Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    "Kill!!" Kamna enraged in madness. He descended towards Evan at high speed. Attacking Evan with his claw that destroys the ground yet missed the target. But he moved very fast and already moving towards Evan once again.


    Kamna is like a demonic beast, strong and sinister. In this era, the demonic beast is rare to see. Most of them hiding in the deepest out of normal people''s range. There are also few books regarding demonic beast. However, Evan whom experienced fighting against demonic beast knows it well. Yet, he doesn''t know what kind of species Kamna is. He understands that Kamna is a human that could turn into a demonic serpent. A black demonic serpent is uncommon but rare in this era. Kamna transformed into gray one and it may be a new variant which produced by devouring undead. Still, evolution couldn''t happen that quickly, in just a few minutes, Kamna finished his evolution but there is a huge setback. Kamna has lost his sanity. He could utter words but can''t think, controlled by instinct to kill and devour.


    Waiting Kamna to come at him, Evan already cast a wind magic. He shot the magic when Kamna was about to eat him. The wind magic he shot entering Kamna''s body and shredding his body from inside. Powerless, Kamna fell to the ground and not moving anymore.


    Evan walks to him and touched his head. He slowly absorbing Kamna''s life force and makes his body begin to decay. Once he finished, he turned towards Paldus and Risilia. Both of them have alert faces. The Union soldiers also in high alert.


    "This is where we part away." Evan spoke and using his magic to pull Erona and Najie towards him. Then wind gathering around them like a tornado and they are disappeared.


    "Paldus... he is not an ordinary wild mage. What did he use?" Risilia glared at Paldus. She knew that something sinister happened when Evan absorbed Kamna''s life force.


    "He....he is a necromancer."


    "Necromancer?!" She couldn''t believe it. To her, a necromancer is an ally of the Undead king. She was about to get angry before she thought why would the necromancer helped them.


    "Let''s talk later, you better tell me the full story of it."


    "Of course."


    Meanwhile. Evan and the girls arrived inside Kolan''s hideout. A big hideout with unknown inventions. In front of them, there is a small golem made of iron, making something.


    "Master, welcome to my place." Kolan spoke and walks to Evan. He bowed and then glanced at the girls.


    "Who are they?"


    "Your comrades in the covenant?"


    "Ahh, your new servants." At once, Najie had ugly expression while Erona only twitched her mouth.


    "But they are weak. Far weaker than us when we became your servants. What''s the point of having them?" His words full of scorn towards the girls. Kolan is a loyalist even without the covenant. He would scorn weak people that tried to become his master''s servant.


    "What can be done? The World has changed and I''m changed. I''m not undead anymore, I''m human. Others might dislike me, so I need more."


    "That''s certainly true. Anyway, master, what will you do now? I know that Romue is within the fake Undead king''s service. I know about your arrival sign and do you wish to reign again?"


    "Not now. You just need to find new hideout along with Najie and Erona. Develop that hideout to a hidden fortress?"


    "Good thinking master. You two." Kolan glared at Najie and Erona, "Time for work."


    "Please wait! Evan! What''s the meaning of ''servants''?!" Najie spoke loudly.


    "Acceptance of my power is also you two willing to become my servants."


    "Who are you actually? You''re not a wild mage, not an ordinary necromancer. Please tell us." She looks being betrayed, it''s because she didn''t know that Evan is a necromancer and then it was another lie too, she wanted to know who he is, not even single lie uttered.


    "I''m an Undead king. The old king." Evan took off his mask and showing the white and black ice appeared.


    "Undead king... you..." Najie fell to the ground in disbelief, her eyes showing that she wouldn''t believe the truth. In her mind, the Undead king is dreadful and heartless being, the creator of nightmare and enemy of everyone. Yet, the man who helped her is the Undead king. She doesn''t understand why would he helped her back then, why would they care about them. Reaching conclusion that he is just using them, not actually care. But then, do they have any value?


    "Kolan, I leave them to you. I have matters to do."


    "Of course master."


    "Master, wait!" Erona pulled his robe. Her way of speaking changed from respectful to more respectful. No fear in her eyes, only loyalty.


    "Can I come with you?"


    "No, you can''t." He replied without hesitation. Erona had sad face and lowering her head. "Aside i can''t protect you all the time. I''m doing something dangerous." Evan wore his mask again.


    "I''m-"


    "No, it''s an order."


    Evan suddenly disappeared and appeared outside where the Union is still investigating the surrounding. They at once in fight stance when saw Evan suddenly appear. Only Paldus who remain calm and looking at Evan without hostility.


    "Union, take me to the neutral zone."


    "Why would we?" Risilia answered with her spear aiming at him.


    "Because you need my assistance. The Undead king won''t stop here. Especially when he knows that you guys are here. He is already spread out his undead across the land and waiting to for destruction. On top of that, the old king is somewhere. Who knows if they are going to cooperate."


    "You speaks that, but yourself are a necromancer. What''s the reason so we can believe in you?"


    "They said... an eye for an eye. I raise undead for undead, an evil for an evil. I''ll become the greater evil if I have to."


    Risilia glaring at him and then lowering her spear. She understands what Evan means. To defeat evil, another evil is necessary. Rather defeat undead with holiness, better choose undead too.


    "Union must act on the spotlight. I''m necessary just like Paldus who did the dirty work." Evan took off his mask and showing a stranger''s face. He changed his face which becomes more mature and had upright bringing. His hair is same but his eyes are different, they changed to green jade colors.


    "Theo, where are they? Erona, Najie, and your comrade?" Paldus asked.


    "In a safe place. I don''t want them to be involved."


    ''At least not now.''


    "Fine then, come with us. You shall speak with our elders." Risilia spoke and commanded the soldiers to get back on the balloon ship.


    "Any insurance of me going home alive?"


    "Haa... what do you wish? A contract by magic?"


    "Good for me."


    After finished the contract. Evan rides on the balloon ship and heading to the neutral zone. He stood near the edge and looking at the scenery. He remembered his first-time ride on the balloon ship.


    ''I hope there is no more hijacking.''


    Sighed. Evan returned to the guest room and resting. While lying on the bed, he connected his telepathy to Kolan.


    "Kolan, once you find the best place for us. Tell me the location."


    "Of course master. But... what would you like? The fortress I mean."


    "Anything good, so long it is strong. Also, make the automata. We need tireless people."


    "As you wish."


    Afterward, he connected to Romue.


    "How''s the situation there?"


    "The fake already noticed that Kamna is dead. He also saw Union balloon ship and but didn''t take any action."


    "Of course he didn''t, anyway, do you know what he is planning now?"


    "Full attack to Union. The fake already gathering thousand undead and hide them across the land. With the help of underworld too, he gained strong army. Unfortunately, the fake still not really trust me."


    "That''s fine, just keep helping him."


    He disconnected the telepathy and close his eyes. Went into a deep slumber where he stood alone.


    "False alarm it seems. Osion isn''t death."


    "How so?"


    "That old dragon really clever to fool us. Now he is inside someone, nurturing himself. If he reborn once again, the world will be in danger."


    "Just how crazy the world is going to be." Evan didn''t expect it. Osion the Dragon king before Rivaz is still alive and fooled them. But Evan also in disbelief if Osion would be dead right away, who could beat him in this era? Osion even if injured or not in full power still manage to destroy a country by himself.


    "If I encounter him, I''ll be dead." He is fine meeting with Rivaz or others, but no with Osion. Asides he is the strongest dragon long ago, the green fire is very sinister.


    A few days later, they finally arrived at neutral zone. Evan followed Paldus and Risilia to Union tower and waiting there for a moment with Paldus while Risilia speaks with the elders or the council.


    "They wanted to meet you, please come with me. Paldus, you too." Risilia spoke. They were led to the basement floor three. There, five people sit next to each other. Two women and the rest are men. They are coming from different races. Human, Elf, Daemon, Beastman, and Dwarf. All of them are elderly people, though the elf and the daemon looks young.


    "Risilia greets the elders."


    "Paldus greets the elders." Both Risilia and Paldus knelt down in front of these people. Evan didn''t kneel stating that his position isn''t lower than the elders.


    "Stand." The human elder spoke.


    "Paldus, Risilia, you two have done well pushing back the Undead king. We will reward you two soon." The female elf spoke.


    "Thank you, elders." Both of them spoke at the same time. The elders then shifted their gazes to Evan.


    "Theo the necromancer. From what I heard, you are the one who led Paldus to the location. You have done great contribution but as you know, we couldn''t possibly trust you and grant you anything." The human elder spoke with a heavy tone.


    "Thought so." Evan shrugged his shoulders. "But I don''t wish anything from you people. I''m a necromancer but my action didn''t support the Undead king."


    "Yes, we aware of that. But how could we trust you? You might be the spy of the Undead king. The Undead king maybe planned everything and sent you here as a spy. Who knows if your intention is true or not?" The daemon elder spoke calmly.


    "There is a way to gain our trust. You will allow us to read your mind." The female beastman elder spoke.


    Evan frowned instantly. It is too excessive for asking to read his mind.


    "Seems like you people won''t trust me. I guess our deal is over." Evan sneered and turned his body away to leave the place. Suddenly, everything went black and heavy atmosphere comes from the daemon elder.


    "Do you think you could leave so easily."


    "... I do." Evan instantly appeared in front of him and his hand placed on the daemon elder''s forehead.


    "Read." The daemon elder''s memories instantly became an open book. The other elders, Risilia and Paldus was unable to act and didn''t expect for Evan to move that fast.


    "Break." The black surrounding cracked like glass and everything turned to normal. Evan retracted his hand from the daemon elder and glanced at the elders.


    "Consider this is a compensation for trying to harm me. I obtained a lot of information. If you tried to stop me, please do not think of it." Evan walks away and left the room.


    The daemon elder shook his body and tremble in fear. He couldn''t believe that his cage was broken so easy and no one able to react with Evan''s speed. On top of that, Evan already knew everything he had experienced.


    "Paldus, can we kill him?" The human elder asked.


    "I''m afraid not. I tried to kill him but he didn''t die. Possibly his body already turned undead or there is a certain weakness to kill him."


    "I see... it was our mistake to underestimate him." He sighed and leaned in the chair. Thanks to their mistake, Evan now holds their secret. Such strong person was not found in their range.


    ''The Union is far lacking.''

 Activity in Voru city

    Evan left the Union quickly and went to the alley in Voru city. He changed to his normal appearance and wore different clothes. On his waist, there was his sword and he wore a red cloak.


    "Voru city, very crowded. Let''s gather-"


    "Ah!" A gentle voice which harmonious in Evan''s ears. He bumped into a girl. She wore a uniform; her hair and eyes are colored black. When their eyes met, Evan felt his entire being shaken.


    ''How could it possible?''


    The face of the girl. She is very much alike with the girl he met in his dream long ago. The girl he loved who died, now someone just alike stood in front of him.


    "I''m sorry, I¡¯m not very cautious and careless." The girl bowed for an apology, Evan instantly recovered although his face is bit pale.


    "No, it was my fault for not being careful. I apologize as well." Evan glanced at her and couldn''t help but disturbed. He wondering if fate really twisted and playing him like a toy.


    "Um, are you okay sir?" The girl asked with worry.


    "I''m fine and please do not call me ''sir'' I¡¯m young."


    The girl nodded, "Then please excuse me." She walks pass Evan but subconsciously, Evan grabs her hand.


    "Ah, um..."


    "Yes?" The girl was alarmed but she kept remain calm and waiting for Evan. On the other hand, Evan felt nervous and after taking breathe deeply, he speaks.


    "I''m Evan, may I know your name?"


    "Laiya." She answered shortly. Evan shuddered and sighed. Fate is really playing on him. He let her hand go and gave her a smile. That name is Paldus¡¯s little sister¡¯s name. he didn¡¯t fully surfing Paldus¡¯ s memory and missed the part of her appearance.


    "Laiya, if fate allows us. I think we shall meet again." He said before turning his back and leaving.


    Laiya was stunned, she didn''t expect someone would flirt her like that. But her heart ached and had trouble to keep her calm expression.


    Evan walking in a fast pace, he is walking aimlessly and don''t know where to go. Voru city is big and he is lost right now. He is hoping to find an inn and asking for a guide across the city.


    The city is very lively; everyone is celebrating the festival and the sky colored with beautiful fireworks. In this crowded place, Evan found it hard to struggle to proceed forward.


    "Look Noel! I caught a big fish!"


    "That''s great Falecia!"


    Evan heard familiar voices. When he looking at a certain stand, he saw Noel and Falecia together. They both have happy expression.


    ''Seems like you''re in good health.'' Evan thought after finally met Noel. But he felt someone staring at them and once he tracking it down, he found a girl and a woman looking at them.


    ''Who? Stalkers? Wait, Noel couldn''t be so popular, right?''


    He is wondering what''s the relationship these stalkers had with Noel. Amongst the stalkers, the girl showing a bit of jealousy while the woman showing an excitement. He didn''t expect to have this kind of awkward situation.


    "Noel, they are following us." Falecia spoke with calmness, on her right hand there is a plastic ball with water and a fish inside it.


    "Haha... don''t mind them." Evan laughed bitterly. He clearly knows that Clara and Teronna have been following them. He wished he had an enjoyable date with Falecia, but never expect to be so this kind weird, especially being followed.


    Evans sighed in happiness and continue to walking. After walking far enough, he found an inn and enter it. The inn is very crowded since it is also a bar. People happily drinking and talking with a loud voice. Evan walks to the counter.


    "A room for a week, how much?"


    "Sorry sir, no empty room."


    "Ah... do you know any other inns?"


    "Sure, but I don''t guarantee they have vacant rooms."


    "Thanks."


    After got an amateurishly drawn map with pinpointed inns. Evan left and begin to visit each inn. There are eleven inns with circle marks can be accommodated by commoner but star mark means can be accommodated by noble or rich people. These star inns surely have vacant rooms but the price is expensive.


    Evan willing to visit each circle inns to find a cheap room. But after visited all of them, he got no luck. He was forced to go to the star inns.


    When he arrived at the first-star inn. The inn has elegant appearance exterior. By outside, the inn seems has ten floors and stretched quite far. When he about to enter, he saw a big man and a boy with baby face walking together and arguing.


    "Rido! The cheap is uncomfortable and not really good for your healthy! Beside it is not luxurious and there are many those dirty guys!" The baby face boy said.


    The big man sighed and says, "Eh, what do you know? Although luxury is good but I rather choose common things and conversation with the so-called dirty guys! Besides, this inn is very expensive."


    He then saw Evan approaching, "Hey, don''t enter this place. Everything is expensive as hell." He laughed happily.


    Evan was amused by this man action to talk suddenly with a stranger. Evan smiled and replied, "Thank you for your warning but I already went to any other inns and all of them are full."


    Instantly Rido face went grim, "Damn, I suppose I need sleep on the street."


    "Rido! Don''t think such a thing! Where is your pride as a Pillar!"


    ''Pillar?'' Evan''s mind suddenly connected to his meeting with Oreily. She is a Wind pillar of Carbiz kingdom and only Carbiz has so-called five pillars.


    "Pillar or whatever! I''ll sleep on the street!"


    "Rido!"


    They are still arguing while walking away. Evan just staring at them and then entering the inn. The interior is as he expected, elegant and luxurious. When entering the inn, there is no bar right away but rather receptionist desk with two people waiting behind it. Behind them, there are two stairs leading to the above floors. While going to the left side is where a bar located.


    "Welcome sir, do you wish to stay here?" The receptionist asked.


    "Yes, is there any vacant room?"


    "There is sir, our inn divided into three rooms. One set, two set and luxury set."


    Just by hearing it Evan understood that the luxury set must be the most expensive. He wouldn''t waste so much money for a luxury.


    "I''ll choose one set, how much it is for a week?"


    "It will be 49 silvers." The price is expensive as expected, not even a normal inn would give such price. Evan took out the silvers and give it to the receptionist.


    "Thank you, here is the key. Sir''s room is located on the third-floor number 65. Also, sir, if you wish to participate in a party tonight, you could go to the bar.


    "Yes, thank you." He took the key and heading straight to his room. The one set room is quite big than normal inn''s room. The bed also soft and there is a fragrance smell. On top of that, there is also a bath. Evan quickly took a bath to clean himself and changed into formal clothes. His appearance drastically changed from a wild man into a suave man. He wore this clothes because he wanted to go to the bar to gather information. Thus, wearing appropriate clothes will allow him to blend in.


    When he arrived at the bar. It is a wide bar where people with high status talk to each other. There is a top quality singer to increase the mood and it is very enjoyable. Evan quickly walks to the counter and order a drink.


    "What would you like sir?" The bartender asked.


    "Something that will remind me of the past."


    The bartender smiled and do his own job, later, he put a glass in front of Evan filled with the drink he asked.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Right, do you have the latest information? Aside from the festival." Evan asked while grabbing the glass.


    "There is a tournament soon sir, it won''t be a normal tournament. Many people who think of themselves as strong will participate, it will be held at Voru stadium. Other than that, the kings gathering also the hot news."


    "The kings... ah, perhaps you know the five pillars of Carbiz kingdom. Do they stay in this place?"


    "Not all of them sir. Only Ms. Karia the white pillar. The rest are busying them selves. Are you perhaps met Sir Rido and Sir Bons?"


    Evan remembered about the big man and the baby face boy he met back then, he nodded. "I do, do you know what kind of person is Rido? He seems dislike luxury."


    "Sir Rido came from humble birth, comes from a village and born with great talent. He later made name for himself as a Hero of Carbiz then become Destructor pillar. He is easy going person and someone needs to befriend with."


    "Then Bons?"


    "Sir Bons came from nobility, he is an admirer of Sir Rido and attained himself a title of the Holy pillar. He is very disciplined and upkeep due to his family as a knight."


    "Any other thing you would like sir? I could provide it to you." The bartender smiled with some hidden meaning behind it. Evan replied back with a smile and took out two golds to put them on the table where the bartender takes them.


    "Bring all information in this neutral zone. Critical one."


    "Of course sir, please come tomorrow night."


    Evan drink the drink and then put a silver while walking back to his room.


    The next day, near noon, Evan already left the inn and heading to the stadium. He wanted to see the list of people who registered. He didn''t wish to join it since it is troublesome.


    Upon arriving at the stadium. He could see people lining up for registering. Evan passed and looking at the broad with names on it. There are far more than 10000 people registered already, perhaps the reward is good that it caught everyone''s attention.


    "Are you here to register too?" A familiar voice which is very harmonious in Evan''s ears. When he turned to his left, he saw Laiya stood with a smile.


    "Hello, seems like fate really allow us to meet." She said.


    "Hello." Evan said shortly and glanced at two girls behind Laiya. They were looking at Evan with suspicious eyes.


    "They are my friends. Aina and Sarah. Perhaps you know Ice princess? She is Aina Lavenz and Sarah.... I don''t think she is popular."


    "Hey, Laiya." The tomboyish girl spoke in anger, she is Sarah.


    "I''m sorry, but I didn''t know the Ice princess too." Evan answered which made Laiya and Aina widened her eyes while Sarah chuckling.


    "Hahaha... Look, Aina, seems like you''re not really that well known."


    "Shut up!" Aina, the girl with long plain blue hair frowned and says, "He might be coming from the isolated village."


    "Isolated? Look at him, he is wearing an expensive one. I bet he is a rich person and your popularity failed to reach him." Sarah laughed once again and made Aina grumbling in displeasing.


    "I''m sorry about my friends, they are very noisy." Laiya humbly apologized to Evan but he did not mind it at all.


    "Are you guys going to enter the tournament?"


    "Yes, we intend to." Laiya answered then Aina speaks, "After all, many of our people entering it even the best first year till the third year."


    "The best?"


    "Yes, our academy has three best people for each year. We are first-year student and the best three of our year is Faiz, Noel, and Glein."


    Two familiar names. He is satisfied with Noel being one of the best but he wanted to know how did Noel become one of the best. But it would be suspicious to ask right away.


    "So, these three best. They are strong, can you define them for me."


    "Of course!" Sarah proudly stepped forward, "Faiz, the strongest because, during the exam, he is crazily using thunder to fight. He is very terrifying and no one would dare to come at him. While Noel, he came out of nowhere like a black horse. Yet, after being challenged by seniors, he proved himself as the second best with his fire. On top of that, he able turn into a fire!" She looks excited as if she were telling a story of her favorite idol.


    "Seed of fire?"


    "You knew? Yes, Noel has the seed of fire. While Glein, he is also the black horse, not even his opponent able to touch him. His power to control gravity and placed gravity to any places, allows him to be able to stand as the third best."


    But Evan still didn¡¯t satisfy with the answer. Was only by the seed of fire Noel became really strong? Evan knew that seed of fire greatly improved one''s fire magic to another level but it couldn''t be only that, right? As he thought of it, Laiya speaks.


    "Faiz is using golden lightning, the legend lightning while Noel using green fire."


    Evan widened his eyes and shivered. The golden lightning already shocked him but the green fire is more shocking than it.


    ''So, Noel was the one who made contact with Osion. Perhaps Osion resides inside him and it would be hard...''


    This is not a good situation for Evan. Noel acquired green fire means double edge sword. He got more power but in exchange, Osion will grow stronger. Although Osion fooled him before and might also have fooled Noel, Evan believed that Osion is waiting for the right chance to come out and taking over Noel''s body.


    "What''s wrong? You seem in distress?" Laiya leaned her body forward and looking at Evan''s eyes which made him startled.


    "Ah, it''s nothing. Shall we register together?"


    "Yes, let''s go."


    Evan changed his mind. Join the tournament allow him to observe Noel more clearly and if they meet in the fight. Evan could evaluate just how strong Noel had become thus allow him to determine to attack Osion resided in his body. It is wasteful to throw away the green fire, but if Osion unable to get rid so easily, then throwing away the green fire is necessary.


    After registered, Laiya and her friends said goodbye to Evan and left. While Evan himself, he is taking a stroll around the city till it went night.


    When returned to the inn, he went to the bar and meet with the bartender.


    "Here is the information." The bartender gave Evan pilled papers.


    "Thank you." Evan quickly heading to his room and start reading the information. The information was filled with every situation happened in neutral zone. But not very specific one. Since neutral zone is very big, it is divided into many places and there are different situations happened.


    Not many things that catch Evan''s attention. But what makes him furrowed his eyebrows was undead was found passed by the witnesses. Though many people think it was an illusion but it happened in several different places and at a different time. The latest one happened three days ago.


    ''If this were true, then the Undead king really stretched out very far. Could he also be aiming for this all the time? Kings gathering and tournament. If he could end all the kings'' lives, all kingdoms will fall in dire state and weakened. This is worst possible scenario but I don''t know...''


    Another information, Evan found that Oreily was entered this town a few days ago sneakily, but alas, someone managed to took a notice of her. Five pillars in this city, Evan wondered what Carbiz kingdom up to. To have all of them here, very suspicious.


    After finished reading all information. Evan lied on his bed and relaxed. Looking at the vanilla colored ceiling, illuminated by fine white light, Rian sighed and closed his eyes.

 Meeting of two friends

    "Noverios, who was he?"


    Noel asked like an idiot after drank a tea. Falecia and Clara who saw this couldn''t help but think that Noel clearly lacked in history. Right now, they are in VIP ground of certain cafe. Ever since their meeting, Falecia and Clara somewhat became a friend, but hidden hostility inside Falecia is very hidden that Teronna praised her, "Such well-hidden blade! She is a good woman!" She said.


    "Really, Noel, you must learn history well! It will be really important." Falecia scolded him.


    "Sorry, but the history seems bland."


    "Haa... anyway, Noverios. People might have forgotten who he was. Before Undead king, before the Dark king, before Osion, and before heroes¡¯ arrival. Noverios was known as the great king of humanity. He is the one who made the decision to summoned heroes."


    "So... why he is important?"


    Once again Falecia sighed, currently, amongst three of them, Falecia is the most knowledgeable.


    "In history, Novarios wasn''t your ordinary king. He was very powerful but not comparable to the heroes or another legend. He participated in a war against Osion, he participated in a war against the dark army and at the end, he was killed."


    "The question is why did he die? Novarios is strong and young king. He might not strong as the heroes but not really that weak. Yet, how did he die?"


    "According to the ancient history. Novarios died after had a fight with the Dark king but why would a king risk his life in a fight that he couldn''t win? He holds an important power and why would he choose to run into death?"


    "Because..." Noel tried to put a word but couldn''t find a suitable thing to say.


    "It was unknown to everyone and why would he do that. As for why he is important-"


    "I believe it is the best thing to stop the story." A clear and stern yet high-pitched voice spoke out.


    "Master." Clara spoke once she saw who comes to them.


    "Falecia, I didn''t know how you able to obtain such information. But it is something that children like you shouldn¡¯t speak about."


    Falecia staring at her with doubtful eyes and silently drinking the tea.


    "Master, why we can''t?"


    "Because..." she stopped and looking at the three grown up children in front of her. With a huge smile, she says, "There is nothing important on it."


    "What?" Noel almost got choked. He was very serious listening to her that he forgot he is on his way to drink his tea.


    "Master, that''s a joke, right?"


    "Of course she isn''t joking. There is nothing important about it." Falecia spoke up.


    "Then why we suddenly talking about him?" Clara asked.


    "Isn''t that obvious to teach Noel about a little bit of history? I can''t believe she ruined everything."


    The reason why they came to this place is actually for normal conversation but then the topic brought to Noel being bad in history. Thus, they start talking about history and to the point it was related to Novarios. Falecia already prepared so much thing to make Noel at least bit interested to hear about Novarios but then Teronna came and ruined her plan. But when Teronna spoke up, she was looking at her with doubtful eyes. She felt that the old witch(Teronna) knew the history well and more of it but throw that idea away once Teronna spoke again.


    "Noel, you should clean your clothes. Although you were shocked, please get shocked with a manner. Don''t spit out the tea." Teronna mocked him. Obviously, she was speaking nonsense, but Noel already thought of how to get shocked with a manner.


    "Really... you already starting to make a harem." She sighed.


    "Clara, your father might like him. A harem king meets a harem son of viscount! Bam, he would be very excited."


    "Master surely joking, that father... why he is always trying to have fun with others. He even doesn''t care about-" me, before she said that, Teronna already closed her mouth and smiling.


    "Shh, he is your father. The way he treats you and others are different. If you want to know, quickly get married to Noel."


    Instantly both Clara''s and Noel''s faces reddened. Falecia who saw this had grim expression and slapped Noel. Though her slap was relatively weak, it was enough to make Noel prostrate to her at once.


    "Aah... this girl. You shouldn''t restrict man like that." Teronna directed it to Falecia.


    "If man were not behaving properly like the wife''s wish. He would become a wild animal; such a thing isn''t a man anymore." Falecia replied with a smile, but her smile bringing so much hostility towards Teronna. Yet Teronna only smiled at her too and patted Clara''s head.


    "The tournament soon will begin. Are both of you ready?" She referred to Clara and Noel only. Both of entered the tournament but not with Falecia. Her body had been weak since birth, so she couldn''t participate and only wish Noel for the best.


    "We are certainly ready. But I¡¯m afraid we''re not very strong." Clara agreed with what Noel said. Both of them strong, but compared to others, they are weaker. Even if Noel had the seed of fire, it doesn''t mean he is special. There are far stronger people than him and the land is vast, who knows a black horse might suddenly appear.


    "Don''t worry, just focus and do the best. Of course, the victory is worth it but what you two need is an experience to temper yourselves."


    Teronna''s words were true. It doesn''t matter if they are the champion or not. There is so much time for them to improve. By fighting against different people, it will allow them to learn through experience against fighting different opponents. Enlarging their knowledge for what they must do against different opponents. This is an important factor to develop better.


    Afterward, they parted away. Noel and Falecia went home together while holding hands. Two of them smiling to each other and ignoring the look of people.


    "Oh? The second best is actually dating. What a surprise." A mocking tone and familiar one, of course, it was Glein.


    "Glein." Noel said it coldly.


    "Glein, can we help you? If not, please excuse us." While on the other hand, Falecia answered quite calm and friendly. But Glein clicked his tongue.


    "Right, Noel, do you want a piece of good news?"


    "A good news?"


    "Yes, you probably won''t believe this but... I''ll say it." He smiled happily, "Evan is alive."


    Noel instantly stiffened. Certainly, the good news is good and very good. But how did he know? How Evan reached this place? And where is he? He wanted to ask so much.


    "First. I saw him a few days ago. I know his face well even one time only. Second, I don''t know where his whereabouts, he might be in this city but where? Third, he is here but he didn''t come to you, why? What''s his reason? Fourth, is he really Evan?"


    "What do you mean by fourth?"


    "Idiot, by outside. He has resembled Evan but what about inside? What if he was dead and being possessed? I found him by coincidence and unable to found him anymore. So, this is the piece of good news." Glein said and was about to leave before suddenly Noel grabbed him.


    "Where did you see him? How?"


    "Hmm... where... I don''t know. But I know who talked to him." He said with a grin.


    "Who?" Noel urged.


    "Tch, idiot. Aren''t you just too happy for your dog?"


    "Glein! Do not speak like that!" Falecia glared at him which makes Glein clicked his tongue.


    "I don''t know what so good about him." His words obviously contained jealousy and anger, it was really ambiguous where his words directed at.


    "He met with a girl. From the academy, her name is Laiya. Friend of Sarah and Aina. She is first year."


    "You know so much." Noel slightly astonished, ¡°Are you perhaps a stalker?"


    "Damn shrimp, I¡¯ll beat you up at the tournament." He said while walking away. But then, from afar a stone flew at Noel which hits Noel''s head quite hard.


    "Ow, he really crazy..." Noel looking at Glein distastefully. As for Falecia, she is looking at him with worry.


    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "Why him?! I could protect you better than anyone else! I could even kill the-"


    "Don''t speak like that!"


    She remembered about the past and shook her head. Changing her face with a refreshing smile and pulled Noel to keep walking.


    The next day. Noel starting to search Laiya and found her at the academy.


    "What do you want with Laiya?"


    But it turned out to be quite hard. Noel was blocked by Layna''s two friends, Aina and Sarah.


    "I would like to speak with her."


    "Huh? Are you trying to hit on her?" Sarah asked in disdain.


    "No... it''s-"


    "Aren''t all men same? I heard you have a fianc¨¦e? Now you want more?" Aina spoke up. Clearly, her words were full of hostility.


    "It''s about Evan!" He spoke up right away. Sarah and Aina frowned then looked at Laiya who reading a book.


    "Laiya." Aina called.


    "Yes?"


    "He wants to speak with you."


    "Oh? Is he not a bad guy?"


    "Who knows? But just talk to him. We''ll follow."


    Layla slowly nodded and they went to another place to talk.


    "Evan?"


    "Yes, he has white hair, blue eyes. His body is tall and looks older than us but he is actually sixteen years old."


    "Friend of you?"


    "Yes!" Noel spoke with eyes shone.


    "We met, twice by fate. First we bumped each other and second, we met near the registration for the tournament."


    Noel somewhat shocked by Laiya said by fate but he didn''t mind it and asks, "Is he going to join the tournament?"


    "Yes."


    Noel didn''t hide his joy and smile widely but it was for a short moment.


    "Do you know where he lives?"


    "No, I don''t. Rather, is he very important to you?"


    Important? Yes, to him Evan is an important friend but it could be said that Evan is irreplaceable friend. Though their times is short, they are quite close to each other.


    "Yes, an irreplaceable one."


    Hearing that, Laiya smiled and walks away along with her friends. When she far away that Noel suddenly remembered about the girl who defeat him in the exam. She is very alike with Laiya.


    "Could it be her?"


    After school. Noel decided to search for Evan''s whereabouts. In such a large city, him alone isn''t enough. One day, isn''t enough, not two days or three days. Eventually, the tournament is came nearing and he couldn''t find Evan at all.


    "You so desperate to find him. It will affect your health." Clara said with worry. She is also helping Noel to find Evan but got nothing so far. She was worrying f about him because Noel almost pushed away everything just to find Evan.


    Noel didn''t answer but smile only. It is true that he is not in good condition, tirelessly looking around but found nothing. Even with his current strong body, he will gain fatigue.


    "Noel!" Suddenly Falecia called, she had a bright face and says, "Evan sent a message!"


    "What?"


    "He said he wanted to meet you outside the city!"


    "What?" Noel still couldn''t believe. He had been searching all the time and then Evan sent a message to meet him outside? It felt like his effort is wasted, but Noel didn''t think so.


    "Where?"


    "South gate but he said you must go alone."


    "Got it!"


    At once he departed to the south gate. Leaving everything else. He used magic to run fast and arrived at the south gate. Outside the city, stood a man wearing a casual white shirt and black trousers. His body is tall and well-built, his blue eyes staring at Noel intensely.


    "Evan!" Noel happily cheered and runs to him.


    "Come follow me," Evan said with a smile.


    Happiness in Noel''s face erased with confusion. They just met and seems like Evan didn''t care much. Nevertheless, he follows Evan.


    They went quite far from the road and people. Evan suddenly stopped and looking at Noel.


    "I didn''t intend to meet you this early." He said which left Noel puzzled.


    "But I fear for the future. Anyway, it''s nice to see you, Noel."


    "Evan where-"


    "We don''t have much time, so let''s go to the point. Later, after the tournament, we can talk as much as we want."


    "Evan..."


    "Noel." Evan''s tone instantly changed to heavy one. His eyes gazed at him like a hunter. Noel froze up for a moment since he didn''t expect for Evan to look at him like that.


    "Show me your green fire."


    Noel shocked, how did Evan know he got green fire? But seems like Evan wouldn''t answer that and he must show him.


    "Show me your strongest attack."


    After much hesitation, Noel inhaled and took a ready stance. He is determined, he will use his strongest attack at once.


    Green fire burst out and engulfed his both hands, a pair of wings appeared behind his back and flapping.


    Evan knitted his eyebrows and softly sighed.


    ''So you really...''


    "Here I come!"


    Noel burst out, his foots boosted by green fire and flew towards Evan at high speed. With his mana gathered on his right hand, he thrust his right hand and the fire formed a lance shape.


    Evan only stood there without moving, he is calm and that makes Noel worried. He worried if Evan didn''t dodge, he will injure him. But, the next action Evan took blown him up.


    An ice suddenly appeared in front Noel and blocked his attack, then the ice launched a block which hit and made Noel flew away.


    Noel rolled on the ground and slowly stood. He didn''t expect for sudden ice to appear. But he didn''t expect that the ice able to stop his green fire. From his experience, normal ice is melted instantly by his green fire. But then he realized that the ice appeared out of nowhere is a white ice.


    "Evan... you..."


    The first thing came to Noel''s mind is instant cast paper. He thought Evan had the paper but then he shook his head in disagreed.


    On the other hand, Evan looking at Noel with conflict.


    ''Now... you must realize my presence Osion.''


    ''You fooled me once, but you can''t escape against. I will come for you.''


    ''Osion...'' Evan grew grimmer.


    ''I''ll kill you for real and I won''t let you hurt my friend.''


    The resolution he made. What he couldn''t do in the past perhaps bring disaster and fortune to Noel. Now, he must erase that disaster.


    Evan isn''t the genius of this era. He wasn¡¯t the hero of this era. He is the old timers; he isn''t supposed to shine in this era. He wasn¡¯t a hero anymore.


    "Evan, you used ice magic."


    "I did."


    "That''s amazing! You blocked my green fire!"


    "Nothing much. If your green fire were stronger, I wouldn''t able to block it."


    What he said is true. But there is another way to stop Noel even if his green fire became strong. Because Noel is human and mortal, he is easily killable.


    "Now... your girls must be worried, Noel. I didn''t expect for you to have another girl except for Falecia." Evan grinned.


    "Wha- how did you- no! That was- we''re friends!" Noel flustered. He didn''t think that Evan would say that, so different from the past. Back then, he would be the one who forced Evan to get near a girl and teasing him but now, seems like he is the one who gets near a girl and got teased.


    "Anyway, glad you are okay."


    After short of calming down, Noel smiled and reply, "You too. Evan, you should-"


    "No, I can''t. It might be hard to understand but I had other matters to do. You might be confused, but you don''t need to worry. No matter what happens, I¡¯ll be fine."


    "That doesn''t sound assuring at all."


    "It is."


    For a long time, they are staring each other. There is so much that Noel wanted to ask yet he knew that Evan wouldn''t answer them.


    "We will meet again right?"


    "Yes, we will."


    They will meet again in the tournament, surely, but that''s not what they meant. Will they meet again after the tournament? Hearing Evan answered positively, Noel nodded in satisfaction and bid his farewell.


    After Noel left. Evan sighed and left too.

 First trial of tournament

    In swamp land, a man in iron armor with enough protection for his body fighting against several monsters. He wielded a dual-edged longsword and a shield locked on his arm. This man moved very fast and attacked every monsters'' vital points. He was together with other participants, but he wasn''t working together with them.


    When the monster quite far from him, he straightened his left arm which has a shield. Beneath the shield, there is a hidden crossbow that could be triggered by a pull. He shot the bolt and hit the monster right on its head. The crossbow didn''t need to reload because it has a magazine for it.


    ''Quite convenient to have this set of items.'' That person thought. To be the truth, all of these things doesn''t belong to him. He took them and luckily they are good quality.


    ''The fight against immortals too wasn''t wasteful!''


    He slashed down his sword and easily cut the monster. This person was Evan. He was in disguise as a warrior, armed to toe and perfectly like a veteran. But he clearly knew that he lacked technique as a warrior. He only used his instinct and strength to fight. Although his skill was polished well, it was without technique.


    ''The monsters are endless. They really forced the participants to work together. An hour fighting is very tiring.''


    But Evan who had been fighting without a stop in the immortal fight, this was nothing. He could use magic, but he refrained from doing it. At least, he will have used buff magic.


    ''I guess, I''ll retreat now.''


    He already caught attention, a skilled warrior fighting against many monsters at once. Everyone will regard him highly and if he continued to fight. Everyone would think of him as a freak. To make unnecessary attention, for now, he will retreat.


    Moving in the swamp was quite hard, who knows the ground would be too soft and hindering movement. Not forgetting that there might monster hidden in the swamp and ready to attack anytime. The participants quickly seek steady ground to fight. But Evan not choosing that, the monsters in this place aren''t just swamp monsters, other race monsters exist too. Those monsters also found it hard to move in the swamp and with their number, it was hard to move together. Evan was alone and he was moving very fast in the swamp, the danger of hidden monster couldn''t even hinder him.


    He retreated quite far and found a cave. Without hesitation, he entered it but only found that several people are already inside. These people are avoiding a fight, they just need to survive for an hour and they would go to the second trial.


    "Am I allowed?" Evan asked.


    These people glanced at each other and nodded. Evan used magic to cleanse his armor and leaned on the wall.


    From these people perspective, Evan was a lone warrior and recently found a cave. One person was harmless for them and beside this cave was quite big for twenty people. They secretly glanced at Evan, curiosity, annoyance and other feelings. Evan kept wearing his armor and thus wouldn''t let them see who was inside the armor.


    After a while. Evan stood and slightly bowed at them then about to leave the cave but stopped at the exit.


    "I suggest all of you leave this place. The monsters will come."


    They stared at him in disbelief. They didn''t believe a stranger''s words, but they also need to take it for caution. But, not long after Evan left. The ground was vibrating and the ceiling cave destroyed. A large monster comes down and screams them.


    ''I wouldn''t think they would let everyone relaxed.''


    Evan knew that the trial wouldn''t be that easy. People hiding is okay, but they wouldn''t last long. Because no matter where they hide, the monsters will find them under the guidance of this realm owner.


    "Hm?"


    Evan noticed a black firewall. He knew from the information he obtained, the black fire comes from Clara, Noel''s friend. The firewall was quite effective to ward off the monsters, adding it is a black fire, no monsters would dare to come closer. Evan was wondering how they will handle this.


    But, not to his expectation. A large flat cracked ground flew and descended to the black firewall. Despite black fire could melt anything, the impact of flying ground is severe and as long as the owner is injured, then it is a win situation.


    From inside of the black fire, a girl came out in rush towards Evan direction. She was Clara. Although she could survive the flying ground, it would use too much mana. She only realized that she was running into someone and going to bump that person.


    Yet, Evan subconsciously merciless. He changed his pivoting and retreated to the side way, allowing Clara passed him away. Due to shock that he dodged her, Clara almost tripped herself.


    She steadies herself and looked at the flying ground which smashed her previous location. Then she was looking at Evan with calm eyes. Her eyes filled with suspicious and alert. Towards stranger, she is cold and acts apathetic. She won''t trust someone so easily. But she can''t help it, her life was always targeted and people close to her died because of it. Noel almost died because of her but she is grateful for him to be alive. After betrayed by her fake bodyguards, her wariness towards a stranger is very high.


    Just when they were staring each other, Evan turned his body and walked away. Somehow, Clara sighed in glad because Evan walked away, but it was only for a short moment when Evan stopped and looked at her again.


    "Move from that place."


    Clara was looking at him and doubt it, but then she noticed a shadow enlarging below her. Instantly she rushed away and barely dodged a falling rock. A loud scream was coming closer. The trees destroyed as if they were meet a bulldozer. A giant monster with four arms moving towards them.


    Evan unsheathed his sword and stood in front of Clara. She looked at him in shock, why would this stranger stand in front of her like trying to protect her? She couldn''t believe this stranger doing this for nothing.


    "Clara right?"


    Clara nodded hesitantly, it was normal for people to know her name because of the black fire.


    "You were using your black fire wastefully. you''re were using too much mana and produce weak fire. Seems like you unable to proceed with it."


    She widened her eyes, someone advised her about the black fire was something unheard. She knew that the black fire''s consumption is very large, but weak fire? She couldn''t agree with it. If her black fire weak, how strong the strong black fire?


    When the monster came closer, Evan ran toward it. He shot his crossbow but the bolt got repelled by the thick skin of the monster. Evan added speed boost and strength boost. He went to the monster''s leg and slashed it. But his sword doesn''t give a deep cut. But he didn''t stop and slash the same leg again on the same spot.


    The monster enraged and tried to smash Evan, but he was too quick for the monster. Suddenly, the monster fell to the ground. Its leg was cut very deep to the bone and unable to stand anymore. It roared and doesn''t acknowledge that it already lost but Evan came at him and slashed through its neck. The monster died but Evan''s sword got broken. His sword was unable to withstand the monster''s thick skin and broke after few hits.


    He threw the broken sword away and took out another sword from his storage.


    "Thank you." Clara said after coming towards him.


    "No need, you can handle it well. It would even better if you able to master the black fire too."


    "You seem to know much about black fire? As you know i''m the only human who can use black fire, perhaps you-"


    "I''ve met a dragon before."


    That words made Clara silent. Met a dragon, clearly, dragon couldn''t be see anymore in this era, they are hiding away and live in peace. But to meet a dragon, it seems preposterous.


    "The dragon you met, it could use black fire?"


    "Yes, he could. Even more magnificent than yours."


    "That means this dragon has Dragon king''s bloodline?"


    Evan didn''t speak but nodded. The first dragon and the one who developed black fire is Rivast. According to the information, Clara inherited Dragon king''s bloodline thus allowing her to use black fire normally.


    The concept of black fire is too complex and that is why people believed the black fire could only come from the bloodline and that is also the same case with white ice. But, if Rivast can make the black fire, why the others not? If Osion able to create green fire, why the others not? Shortly, the others are unable to find the way to create such terrifying magic. Human is only a small tube for experiment and it was not enough to create terrifying magic. Human only able to apply magic, they couldn''t create them. That also same with other races like a human. However, it is not a fixed conclusion. A miracle could possibly happen.


    When there is nothing to speak of, Evan wanted to leave but suddenly Clara stopped him.


    "If you know about black fire... could you..." she hesitated, "Could you tell me how to master it?"


    "Why would I?"


    Just when Clara about to answer, Evan spoke again, "Why would you believe I could help you? Could a stranger help you? You are desperate, right?"


    His words hit the mark. She is desperate, it was true. Her desperation begin to grow when she noticed Noel''s improvement. He keeps getting stronger and leaving her behind. She doesn''t want that, she wanted to stand by his side. She couldn''t be lagging behind.


    "I''m a stranger and people are watching. If you want my help, after this, perhaps."


    He said before turning away and leaving. Evan couldn''t help her actually. He doesn''t understand the concept of black fire but he knows well about it at least. But he could take her to the right person or to be more precise a Lizard.


    Forty minutes has passed. The monsters are getting stronger and people starting to disappear. They don''t die, when their lives in danger, they will instantly leave the trial.


    Evan doesn''t know how many people were left. He was walking alone and didn''t encounter any single monsters. Perhaps, he was lucky or perhaps he was unlucky. Why unlucky? While there is no monster around, it means the place where he is now is dangerous.


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Not long after that, a thunderous roar sounded in the canyon. Evan believes that this place is a territory of strong monster, or perhaps strongest monster in this realm.


    "You wouldn''t enter that place, right?" A feminine voice. When he turned around, he saw an elf girl coming. She wore a light armor that doesn''t restrict her movement. On her waist, there are two daggers and three pouches.


    "Why do you think so?" Evan asked he wanted to know why the elf girl would be so considerate to ask him.


    "Because that''s a dead zone."


    "Hm... I know but that also means the safest zone."


    After thinking for a while, the elf girl nodded, "That''s reasonable. The other monsters wouldn''t come closer. We only need to take care of that one."


    "We... are you trying to propose something?"


    "Yes, working together. I''m confident with my skill I could take down the strongest monster but that will result in a great price. But, by working together, I could lessen it."


    "Proposing to work together. What a weird elf, I thought an elf would dislike asking help from a stranger."


    "That kind of pride is wasteful. So, teaming up?"


    "Sure, my name is Walt."


    "I''m Lita, I hope we can work well."


    "I hope so."


    Evan found it quite strange on why would this elf girl approaching him. Even it is making a team, asking a stranger is bit odd. Where does her trust come from? How could she propose something like that so easily? He remembered about Noel too. Noel also blindly trust Evan back then. Picked a villager out of nowhere and the Viscount Rishawd was the same.


    "Say, did you hide something in this teaming up? I found it hard to believe you will ask a stranger to team up. Though there is an occasion where it best to team up together when the situation is dire. Yet, now the situation isn''t like that."


    "I just want to defeat the strongest monster. That''s all." She said indifferently which is not very convincing.


    "Taking the risk. Either you are seeking death or battle maniac, there is another purpose, right?"


    After a short silence, Lita sighed. "You''re right, there is another purpose. Do you know that in this realm, the monsters are real?"


    "I do. Oh, you want to get their parts?"


    "Exactly! I saw the strongest monster! It''s a wyvern!"


    Wyvern, unlike dragon. Wyvern is smaller than a dragon, it doesn''t have four legs but instead two legs and a pair of wings. There are a few wyverns with intelligence, but most only follow their instinct.


    "What kind of type?"


    "I don''t know, I''m not too knowledgeable about it, but the wyvern''s parts are good! If we defeat it, we shall split it evenly!"


    "There is still around fifteen minutes, we better be quick."


    "Okay, hold on to me then." Lita suddenly grabbed Evan and both of them disappeared and appeared in different place.


    ''Teleport? Blink?''


    Very quickly they arrived at the location. Lita drank a potion to restore her mana and then looking at the surrounding.


    "Where is it?"


    "We don''t need to find it," Evan spoke and took out a potion. He smashed the potion to the ground.


    "What''s that?"


    "Lure."


    Not far from then, a roar sounded and then dragon-like being appeared, a wyvern.


    "Like a dragon, it might be hiding a treasure, but that''s not what we come here for. Let''s go."


    Lita grabbed Evan again and teleported to above the wyvern. Evan made a free fall and unsheathe his sword. His sword got hardened by magic and it slashed through the wyvern''s wing. His sword manages to tear the wing and made the wyvern fall down. But the wyvern quite smart, it attacked Evan with its tail when falling down.


    Luckily Lita appeared and catches Evan then appeared on the ground just at the same time the wyvern fell.


    "Are you fine?" Lita asked with worry, if Evan were to fall right now, her chance of winning against the wyvern is low.


    "Just a crack on my armor. It is fine, it won''t hinder me." Evan took out another sword and hold it in his other hand.


    "Let''s go."


    They rushed towards the wyvern. It breathes fire, however, Evan dodged and Lita teleported to above the wyvern. The wyvern suddenly looking at Lita and tried to eat her, but she disappeared and appeared beside the wyvern. Again, they wyvern suddenly looking at her again.


    ''Very good instinct!''


    The wyvern attacked Lita but it also didn''t forget to attack Evan with its tail. Evan jumped and avoided the tail but it suddenly makes a return and hit Evan. Fortunately, he blocks it with his shield even though the shield and the crossbow beneath it instantly broken.


    "No other choice."


    Evan relaxed his body and poured his mana to every place of his body. At once, he disappeared and the wyvern suddenly got smashed down. However, the wyvern only down for a moment before it went berserk.


    "You''re strong! What kind of strength was that?" Lita said with amazement.


    "Great boost."


    "Great boost? But that drains a lot of mana unless you are very good in magic."


    Evan didn''t answer and looking at the wyvern. Despite lost its ability to fly, the wyvern still strong and normal attack wouldn''t wound it. Even with boost, Evan managed to knock it down only.


    "Lita, are your daggers magic weapons?"


    "Yes, that is why I could wound it well. Do you have a magic weapon?"


    "No." Yes, he has it but he won''t use it. Rather, using magic to wound the wyvern is enough for him. If the sword broke, he will bring out another one.


    The wyvern charging at them and suddenly jumped, it uses its wings to glide towards them and tried to catch them with its foot. Both Lita and Evan are moving in synchronization, they dodged and slashed the wyvern''s legs.


    Once the wyvern landed, Lita blinked to near the wyvern''s neck and slashed it. The wound she inflicted isn''t quite deep. Evan slashed its tail and with magic poured into his sword, the sword almost made a deep cut. In pain, the wyvern twists its body and breathe a fire around it. Lita took Evan and blink to above the wyvern. Once the wyvern stopped breathe a fire, they blinked once again and appeared right in front of the wyvern''s head. They moved and thrust their sword and dagger to the wyvern''s eyes. Afterward, they disappeared and appeared again and slashed the wyvern''s neck.


    "It wouldn''t be able to see but it could smell us."


    "Don''t worry." Evan took out a potion and throw near the wyvern. The potion let out a liquid with a nasty smell. The wyvern got disturbed by the smell and went berserk


    "Walt! Time is almost up! We need to defeat it!"


    "Yeah..."


    Evan boosted himself and at great speed, he arrived below the wyvern. He thrust his sword into the wyvern''s heart and pierced the scales. However, just when half of the sword entered, the sword broke. Evan thrust his other sword and penetrate it deeply; his sword pierces the wyvern''s, heart. With an increase of his strength, Evan cut through the scales and rip it apart. As a result, his sword broke again.


    The wyvern screamed and slowly falling down. With its heart pierced, it died.


    "Come, let''s dismantle it."


    Lita nodded and went to help Evan to dismantle the wyvern. However, the time wasn''t enough and they unable to finish it. When the time was over, they returned to the tournament. Lita was showing great disappointment and sighed many times. While Evan didn''t mind much about it.


    "357 participants have fallen! Only 10386 remains! Now! The rank!"


    First rank, Geralt. Monster killed: 370


    Second rank, Rasvelt. Monster killed: 365


    Third rank, Faiz. Monster killed: 364


    Fourth rank....


    The ranks were shown until all names of participants were listed. Evan whose name is Walt killed 189 monsters while Lita killed 130 monsters. Evan looking at Noel''s name and he has killed 321 monsters. While the last is Glein who didn''t kill any monster.


    "But! There are two people who get the hidden bonus! Walt and Lita! They killed Wyvern!" Two figures, Walt and Lita appeared on the disk array.


    The audiences cheered and the other participants are looking at Walt and Lita. Who wouldn''t know a wyvern? A Flying Lizard lower than a dragon. No ordinary people could defeat it. The participants are looking with envy, amaze, curious, and apathetic. Lita didn''t care about their gaze since she disappointed for unable to get her loot. While Evan checking his equipment which is broken.


    "They will be rewarded with two items! Directly by Union Council!"


    From VIP seat, an elf with Union robe flew at them. Evan recognized this lady elf. According to the daemon elder, this elf elder is the one who has the trial realm.


    "Congratulations." The elf elder smiled at Evan and Lita. "Both of you have defeated my best monster. I shall give you two rewards."


    She shifted her gaze to Evan and says, "Walt, you are a brave warrior. Dare to stand against the wyvern and received all the damage. I shall reward you with this." She gave him a sword. The sword is covered by a metallic scabbard, it is not heavy but thick. While the sword, its hilt looks ordinary but, there are runes carved into the sword.


    Everyone gaze directed to the sword. The sword with runes is expensive, it''s not ordinary sword and without imbued mana, the sword is already powerful. However, a runic sword is quite weaker than a magic sword. The Runic Sword has static power, it couldn''t be improved except changing the rune while magic sword could be improved by pouring magic into it.


    "This sword has four runes. Hard, sharp, swift, and flexible. Use it well."


    "Thank you, Elder." Evan received with a bow and stored the sword inside his storage. The elf elder then moving towards Lita.


    "Your Blink magic is amazing and you can move in coordination well. I shall reward you with this." She gave her a ring. The ring has purple jade and looks ordinary.


    "It''s cloning ring. Pour your mana into it and you can create your own clone. It is perfect to distract your opponent and launch a sneak attack."


    "Thank you, elder."


    "Yes, also, send regards to Calez."


    Lita somewhat shocked but nodded in acknowledgment. Afterward, the elf elder went back to the VIP seat.