《Makima: Chains Across Eternity》 Chapter 1 – The flaws in perfection
When Makima opened her eyes, the first thing she noticed was the absence of substance. No light, no shadow. A space that was neither warm nor cold. For the first time in what seemed like eternity, there were no chains in her hands. No puppets dancing at her fingertips. Only silence. She brushed her fingers against her face, she got eaten by Denji. She remembered it vividly. The culmination of her carefully laid plans, undone by a boy too simple to control. The irony was almost poetic. Almost. "How quaint..." -she murmured, more to herself than anyone else Thats one way to put it. -a voice echoed in the emptiness. Deep, resonant, and playful, it seemed to vibrate in every direction at once Makima turned her head slowly, her golden eyes narrowing. Before her stood a figure, vague in shape, shifting and pulsating like static in human form. It bore no face, no fixed features, yet it radiated an undeniable presence. Who are you? -Makimas voice was steady, emotionless I go by many names. -the figure said But for you, lets keep it simple: the Multiverse Devil. Makima tilted her head, but her expression betrayed nothing more. Oh? Really? Yes. -it replied I exist in the spaces between. Where universes splinter, and threads of reality diverge. You were confined to a single world, Makima. But now that youre free. -it said, almost mockingly I thought we might talk. What do you want from me? The Multiverse Devil chuckled, a sound like overlapping voices in different languages. Oh, Makima, the question isnt what i want. Its what you want.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. She said nothing. Just the blank, emotionless expression. The Multiverse Devil continued. You wanted a perfect world, right? A place where humans, devils, everything bends to your vision. Where no one can reject you. Where everything youve deemed bad is erased. Its in their nature. People recoil from what they cant understand. What they cant control. -Makima replied And youre no exception, are you? -the Multiverse Devil teased Youve never truly connected with anyone. Despite all your power, all your plans youve always been alone. Even you dont understand yourself. Makimas gaze sharpened. What are you trying to say? The figure leaned closer, though its shape remained indistinct. You failed, Makima. Not because Denji outsmarted you... no, that was inevitable. You failed because you never understood what makes people... people. You saw them as tools, not equals. Playthings, not companions. Makima scoffed. Ive had no need for companionship. Control is enough. Is it? -The Multiverse Devils tone grew darker, almost mocking Tell me, how did it feel when Denji ate you? When all that power meant nothing? Knowing that you never felt happiness? Makimas jaw tightened, but her expression remained composed. Do you intend to mock me? Or is there a purpose to this conversation? The Multiverse Devil tilted its amorphous head. Both. You see, I find you fascinating, Makima. Youre the Control Devil, and yet youre incapable of controlling the one thing that matters most... your own emotions. I dont need emotions. -Makima replied coldly Dont you? -the figures voice softened, almost tender now Thats where youre wrong. And thats why Im giving you a chance. A journey, if you will. To walk through the multiverse, to experience what you never could. To understand what it means to feel. To truly feel. Makima stared at the figure, her mind racing behind her calm facade. And why would you do that? Because Im curious, -it admitted What happens when the Control Devil learns to relinquish control? When someone as broken as you learns to build? Perhaps youll succeed in creating your perfect world, or perhaps youll fail again. Either way, itll be... entertaining. Before she could reply, the figure stretched a handor something resembling onetoward her. Shall we begin? Makima hesitated for the briefest moment, then extended her own hand. Suddenly, the void around them began to ripple and shift. And with that, the world shattered into countless fragments, each one a doorway to a different reality. As Makima stepped through, she felt something unfamiliar stir in her chest. Not fear, nor excitementbut something else entirely. She whispered to herself. Ill create the perfect world. No matter how many universes it takes. Chapter 2 – Control reborn (Start of “Silent conqueror” arc) Makima stepped through the rippling void, disoriented as colors and shapes blurred around her. The stillness of the void dissolved into a cacophony of life chirping insects, rustling leaves, and the distant cry of an animal she couldnt name. The air was damp, the ground beneath her feet soft and uneven. Her golden eyes adjusted to the dim light filtering through a dense canopy of trees. A soft breeze carried the earthy scent of the forest. She raised her hand, pointing at a tree. Bang. -she said But nothing happened. Hm. She examined her hand thoughtfully So, the contracts I had with other devils are gone. Her fingers lingered in the air for a moment before she lowered them. A small smile played on her lips as her gaze sharpened. Focusing, she began to hear what the creatures around her heard... skittering, rustling, whispers of the forest. And not far away, the faint sound of voices. ___ The campfire crackled, casting dancing shadows on the surrounding trees. Three figures sat around it, their faces drawn with fatigue. A man stabbed at his meal with frustration. Im so done with this. The king is cutting everyones payment again... We almost died on this mission! And what do we get? Thirty gold coins. Thirty. -his voice trembled with anger The woman beside him placed a calming hand on his shoulder. Aiyin, I know. Were all upset. But we cant change it. Lets just eat and rest, okay? Aiyin sighed, setting his food aside. Fine, Nino. Fine. But this is the last time we are putting our life on the line for scraps. The third member of the group, Kleto, leaned back against a tree. Nino looked at him, and said. We cant afford another fight like that. We need a healer. Did you ask your priest friend about joining us? Kleto shook his head. No. We cant afford another party member, not with the pay were getting. Nino scratched her head, exasperated. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.I know, but The sound of a twig snapping silenced her. All three turned, hands instinctively moving to their weapons. Emerging from the darkness, Makima stepped into the firelight. Her posture was calm, her hands behind her back. Her golden eyes shone unnaturally in the dim glow. Aiyin was the first to react, drawing his sword. Who the hell are you? And what do you want? Makima tilted her head, her expression unreadable. Im just here for answers. she said, her voice smooth and measured. She smiled faintly. You can call me Makima. Answers? -Nino asked, her hand tightening on her bow Makima nodded. Yes. Im unfamiliar with this place and its... workings. Im a traveler... -her tone was friendly as she lied Aiyins eyes narrowed, his sword unwavering. From far away then, huh? If youre a traveler, why arent you dirty? No dust, no equipment on you... nothing. Makimas smile deepened, an almost imperceptible challenge in her gaze. She let the silence linger. Does that really matter? -she replied finally Thats not an answer! -Aiyin snapped, stepping closer Before the tension could escalate further, a sharp cry pierced the air. All four turned their eyes skyward. A shadow swooped through the trees, its shriek splitting the air. The adventurers stumbled, clutching their ears against the sound. A harpy! -Kleto shouted, his voice strained as he reached for his sword Feathers, sharp as knives, rained down. Aiyin cried out as one pierced his throat. He collapsed to the ground, gurgling, his hand twitching toward his weapon before going still. Aiyin! No! -Nino screamed, scrambling to dodge the razor sharp projectiles, while Kleto got hit too The harpy descended with a screech, claws extended. Its target was Makima, who stood motionless, her expression serene. Move! -Kleto yelled, his leg bleeding as he struggled to his feet But Makima didnt flinch. The harpy halted mid-air, its claws mere inches from her face. Its body trembled as if paralyzed. Golden eyes met the creatures feral gaze, and for a moment, the forest seemed to hold its breath. Sit. -Makima commanded The single word, spoken softly yet laced with unyielding authority, sent the harpy to the ground. It sat, wings folding against its body, its wild eyes locked on her. Kleto and Nino stared in disbelief. Good girl. -Makima murmured She approached Aiyins fallen body, retrieving his sword with a casual motion. Without hesitation, she brought the blade down, severing the harpys head in one swift strike. The creatures body slumped to the ground, lifeless. Makima let the sword fall from her hand, her expression unchanging. Kleto trembled as her golden eyes turned to him. Makima felt that... Kleto acknowledged her power in himself. She saw her chain extending from her to Kleto. A wave of submission swept over him, crushing his will. And after that, Kleto had an emotionless, cold expression on his face. Nino looked at Kletos face, she knew something was off. Her bow slipped from her hands as Makima turned her gaze toward her. With a strangled gasp, Nino turned and bolted into the darkness, her footsteps frantic and uneven. Her heart beating like there is no tomorrow. Makima watched her go, unmoving. Then she turned her attention back to Kleto, her voice calm and steady. Youll be useful. Her golden eyes flickered as a small smile touched her lips. Chapter 3 – Claimed by command
Makima stood before Kleto, her golden eyes gleaming with an unsettling intensity. Her voice, cold and commanding, cut through the silence. But youre still not fully under my control, Kleto. -she grinned faintly, a predator toying with its prey Leaning in closer, her tone softened, yet it carried the weight of inevitability. Say it. Say that you belong to me. Submit to me. Kletos lips pressed into a thin line. He remained silent, his mind fighting valiantly against her control. Makimas smile widened as she placed a hand on his shoulder. The last vestiges of resistance in him crumbled like sand beneath her touch. Her voice was smooth, almost teasing. Say it. His voice trembled, breaking under her dominion. I... I belong to you. Completely. As the words left his lips, the chain connecting them grew taut, its power amplifying. Makimas control over him was now absolute. Straightening, she looked down at him with satisfaction. That wasnt so hard, was it? -her gaze shifted toward the forest, where Nino had fled A hint of amusement played on her face. Go after her. Catch her for me. And dont worry about your injured leg, just keep running. Without hesitation, Kleto rose to his feet and sprinted into the woods. Makima followed at a measured pace, her steps deliberate and unhurried.The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there. ___ Leaves crunched underfoot, twigs snapped in the darkness, and Nino ran as though her life depended on it... because it did. Her breath came in ragged gasps, tears streaming down her face as terror gripped her heart. ''I cant believe this is happening!'' -she thought, her mind racing ''I lost them. I lost them both... my friends...'' At last, exhaustion overtook her. She collapsed under a dense bush, trying to stifle her sobs. The forest was vast and dark, cloaking her in its shadows. ''Maybe this is enough. Maybe she wont find me here.'' But the small animals of the forest betrayed her. Before she could even finish her thought, a hand clamped down on her leg, dragging her out of her hiding spot. She screamed, thrashing desperately, only to find herself staring into Kletos eerily calm and obedient eyes, his actions dictated by Makima. He pinned her to the ground, his grip unyielding as he held her in place. S-stop, Kleto! Whats wrong with you?! What did that woman do to you?! -Nino stammered, her voice quivering with panic A familiar, chilling voice answered before he could. My, my... have you already forgotten my name? -Makima emerged from the shadows, her golden eyes alight with amusement as she loomed over Nino P-please... just stop! What do you want? -Nino pleaded, her voice breaking Makima crouched down, grabbing Ninos arm. Her smile was both comforting and cruel, a mockery of compassion. ___ As the sun began to rise, Makima emerged from the forest, her posture unshaken and purposeful. Behind her, Kleto and Nino followed, their expressions filled with obedience, their wills crushed. Makima halted at the edge of a hill overlooking a bustling city. She took in the view, her lips curling into a satisfied smile. So this is the city called Lynvale? Yes, this is it. -they answered in unison Good. -she began walking toward the gates, her pace confident and measured Follow me, but keep your distance. Understood, Makima. -Nino replied, trailing behind her as commanded Chapter 4 – Systematic suffering Makima stepped into Lynvale, her golden eyes scanning her surroundings with calculated precision. The streets were crowded, but the atmosphere was suffocating, weighed down by despair. She moved through the city, her expression blank as she absorbed the oppressive energy around her. The signs of struggle were everywhere. Weathered faces, empty eyes, and broken spirits. As she turned down a street, a commotion caught her attention. Her gaze shifted to a nearby alley, where two law enforcement officers loomed over a man lying on the ground. His face was bruised, and desperation clung to his every word. Im sorry! Im sorry! My son is just! -the man pleaded before an officer struck him hard across the face Shut up, you filthy animal! -the officer barked, his voice filled with contempt He kicked the man, who doubled over, clutching his side. Youll learn to never steal again! Tears streaked the mans face as he gasped. B-but... my son is hungry Another kick landed, silencing his weak protests. Makimas eyes lingered on the scene for a moment before she turned away, expressionless. ''Poverty? Strange. From the citys exterior, i wouldnt have guessed this.'' She walked on, her thoughts churning. The more she explored Lynvale, the clearer the picture became. The entire city was suffocating under the weight of hardship. Yet, this was not chaos. It was a system. A carefully maintained hierarchy designed to crush the weak.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. ___ Many hours later, as twilight descended, Makima entered an inn. The smell of ale and stale wood greeted her as she approached the counter. The innkeeper, a portly man with a welcoming demeanor, greeted her with a smile. Good evening, miss! Are you looking for a room for the night? Yes. -she replied, her tone neutral How much for a night? For one night, its 10 gold. But if youd like to stay two, its 18. -the innkeeper said cheerfully Makima leaned slightly closer, her golden eyes narrowing ever so slightly. What do you think about letting me stay for free tonight? The innkeeper raised an eyebrow, clearly perplexed. Well, i Before he could finish, Makima reached across the counter and lightly placed her hand on his wrist. Her power coursed through him, and his expression shifted from confusion to utter compliance. Yes, of course! -the innkeeper said enthusiastically A room for free, no problem at all! He handed her a key. Makima took it with a faint smile and walked away. The moment she was out of sight, the innkeeper stumbled, shaking his head as if emerging from a fog. Wha? What just happened? -he muttered, bewildered ___ Makima entered her room, shutting the door behind her with a soft click. She surveyed her temporary refuge: a modest space with a single bed, a small desk, and a washbasin. It would suffice. After freshening up , she laid down, pulling the thin blanket over herself, her golden eyes fixed on the ceiling. The weight of her thoughts pressed down on her like a physical burden. ''How can I create a perfect world here?'' -she wondered, her frustration growing ''This world is different in many ways... and theres no Chainsaw Man. So i cant use his power to erase.'' She rolled onto her side, her fingers gripping the blanket tightly. For a fleeting moment, a shadow of irritation crossed her face. ''I need to learn more about this world.'' -she resolved ''There must be another way.'' Her grip relaxed as she exhaled deeply, forcing herself to calm down. Closing her eyes, she let her thoughts fade. The city of Lynvale continued to churn outside, steeped in misery, but for now, Makima rested. Tomorrow would bring new opportunities to observe, manipulate, and learn. Chapter 5 – A queens vision The morning sun rose lazily over Lynvale, painting the city in dull golds and grays. The air carried a lingering chill, and the muffled sounds of merchants setting up stalls echoed through the streets. Makima stood just outside the inn, her golden eyes fixed on Kleto and Nino, who waited beside her in silence. Their demeanor seemed normal, but they were guided by her unseen strings. Makimas faint smile appeared as she folded her hands behind her back. Tell me, -she began, her tone gentle yet commanding whats wrong with this place? Why is there so much poverty? Kleto spoke first, his words smooth and natural. Miss Makima, the problem runs deeper than Lynvale. Its the whole kingdom. King Malriks to blame. Makima tilted her head slightly. Go on. Kleto continued. The kings corrupt. He hoards the wealth of the land, takes from the people without mercy. Thats why folks here are starving. Nino chimed in. The armys the worst. Theyre not just soldiers, theyre enforcers for Malrik. They get food, money, protection, everything they want... so long as they stay loyal to him. Most of them dont care who suffers, as long as theyve got it good. Kleto nodded. And even the decent ones are trapped. They dont want their families to starve, so they follow orders. Makimas eyes narrowed, though her expression remained otherwise unreadable. I see. -she said softly, as she turned away Thats all I needed to hear. -she continued, her voice calm but firm You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.Now... keep your distance. The two nodded without hesitation. Of course, Miss Makima. -Nino said, stepping back with Kleto Makima began walking, her measured steps carrying her down the uneven cobblestone street. Around her, the city stirred with sluggish life, but her thoughts were elsewhere. Her lips curved into a subtle, almost imperceptible smile. ''Ill become their queen.'' -she decided, her golden eyes gleaming ''Ill take Malriks place. Make them love me for it. I wont even need to use my power to rule this kingdom...'' -she tought, her resolve solidifying She didnt care how long it took, or how much of the kings foundation shed have to shatter. By the end, theyd kneel before her willingly. Makima suddenly came to a halt, her gaze distant. ''But first i need to learn more about this world. The kingdom. Magic.'' -she mused, her thoughts sharp and deliberate, laying the groundwork for what was to come Her reflection was interrupted by a voice calling out. Hey there... whats a beautiful woman like you doing out so early? -a man swaggered toward her, a smirk plastered on his face. His eyes roved over her in a way that suggested trouble Whats your name, huh? Makima turned her head slowly, her golden eyes locking onto him. Her expression was unreadable, calm yet unsettlingly eerie. The man hesitated, his confidence wavering under her piercing gaze. The silence stretched uncomfortably. So, youre not gonna tell me, huh? -he said, forcing bravado as he grabbed her arm In an instant, Makimas hand shot out, her fingers wrapping around his wrist. The man froze, his body stiffening. His smirk vanished. He was under her control. Makimas eyes lingered on him for a moment, cold and indifferent. Then, without a word, she released his wrist and walked away, her measured steps fading into the labyrinth of Lynvales streets. The man staggered back, gasping as control returned to him. But something was wrong. His eyes bulged, his hands clawing at his mouth as he let out a choked, gurgling scream. Blood spattered onto the cobblestones. And then it hit the ground. A severed, fleshy lump. His tongue. He crumpled to his knees, clutching his mouth as panic overtook him. His muffled cries filled the empty street. Chapter 6 – Steps toward supremacy Makima stood beside the Adventurers Guild, speaking with Kleto, her golden eyes glinting with curiosity. So, youre saying magic is the most powerful force in this world, hmm? -she asked, her tone calm and measured Kleto nodded earnestly. Yes, Miss Makima. Most people have at least a basic grasp of magic, but the stronger ones wield more powerful spells. Everyone has a natural limit to what they can achieve, and magic is learned through books. However, these books are single use, as their power flows directly into the reader, binding the knowledge to them permanently. I see. And how do poeple obtain these books? Well, -Kleto began, shifting slightly You can buy basic ones at markets. But the more powerful books? Those are hoarded by the king. People who discover stronger books usually sell them to the Adventurers Guild, beacuse theyre desperate for money to survive and support their families. Since the guild is under the kings authority, he takes any rare books that are sold there. You know, everyone is underpaid, even the adventurers, but they still have the chance of finding books and earning more money. Makimas gaze sharpened slightly. And this limit you mentioned? How does it work? Everyone is born with a ceiling to their magical potential. Only a small percentage of people can wield high tier magic. That means if i want to become stronger, then i have to learn magic? -she asked Kleto nodded again. "Also, keep in mind that you can use the magic to enhance weapons and shields, armors. There is a lot of type of magic." Makimas expression remained unreadable as she dismissed him. Very well. Leave now. With a respectful bow, Kleto departed. Makima turned her attention to the Adventurers Guild, her eyes scanning the bustling interior as she stepped inside. The room was alive with activity. Adventurers huddled in groups, accepting quests, sharing stories, and discussing plans. A subtle grin spread across Makimas face as she observed them. ''The question is, should I become an adventurer? Beacuse that would give me access to assignments and information, saving me time and effort. Wandering aimlessly wouldnt make much sense.''The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Her decision made, she approached the reception desk, where a cheerful woman greeted her with a professional smile. Good day, miss! How can I assist you? Makima tilted her head slightly. Tell me. How can i become an adventurer? The receptionists smile widened. Oh, its simple! You just need to fill out an application. Once thats done, you can start accepting assignments right away. Makima nodded. Very well. Can i have an application? Of course, miss! The receptionist handed her a form, which Makima filled out at a nearby counter. Once completed, she returned it. And then the receptionist handed her a small identification card. Congratulations, Miss Makima! You are now officially an adventurer. Feel free to browse available quests on the board. Makima glanced briefly at the card, slipping it into her pocket. She strolled to the assignment board, her golden eyes scanning the assignments pinned in rows. Each assignment was ranked by difficulty, numbered from 1 to 10. She studied them closely, noting that these rankings were more guidelines than guarantees. ''I should start with an easier one. I need to see what im dealing with here.'' -she thought, selecting a task marked with a difficulty of 4 With the paper in hand, she stepped outside. Across the street, her attention was drawn to a shop selling equipment. Weapons, shields, and tools. As she entered, the shopkeeper gave her a polite nod, but her focus was already elsewhere. She walked the aisles, her sharp eyes on the tools and weapons. ''I need something that i could use with my power... something versatile.'' -she mused Her gaze landed on a whip. She paused, taking in its sleek, coiled form. ''This will do. It can be used in many ways. Entangling enemies, disarming them, or subduing.'' The whip fit perfectly with her nature, emphasizing control and precision over brute strength. Makima picked up the whip and brought it to the shopkeeper. The man smiled warmly. A whip? You dont see many people buying these. Its precise and hard to master. He gestured to the other items. Would you like anything else? Makima returned his smile, though hers was far more enigmatic. No, thank you. Just this. How much will it be? The shopkeeper scratched his head, considering. Hm... two gold for the whip. Makima nodded. Fair price. -she reached into her pocket, mimicking the motion of pulling out coins. Then, extending her hand as if she wanted to hand them over, but insteand she suddenly gripped his wrist Her voice softened, but her words carried an unyielding weight. You meant, its free for me. Right? The shopkeepers eyes widened, his demeanor shifting as her power took hold. Absolutely, miss. Its free for you. With a faint smirk, Makima released him, taking the whip and leaving the shop without another word. Moments later, the shopkeeper blinked, as he gained his senses back. What the?..." Makima continued down the street, idly twirling the whip in her hand. Her thoughts turned inward. ''This would be easier if i still had my contracts with the devils.'' ''Also my power isnt tied to this world. I feel that its connected to my original world, so i cant get my control stronger here.'' Her golden eyes glimmered with determination. Chapter 7 – Infected by power Makima departed Lynvale with Kleto and Nino trailing behind her. As they walked along the forested road, Makima unfolded the assignment paper, her golden eyes scanning its contents once more. So, our task is to hunt down a wolf-born thats also a magical beast. She glanced toward Nino. What is a wolf-born? And what does it mean for a creature to be a magical beast? Nino started to speak, her voice steady. A wolf-born is a creature similar to a werewolf, Miss Makima. The difference is that wolf-born are born as werewolves and cant shift into human form. Theyre also considerably stronger than ordinary werewolves. Makima nodded, signaling for her to continue. Nino adjusted her pace as she elaborated. When we say a creature is a magical beast, it means it has been infected by magic and is now guarding a magical book. Makima tilted her head, her curiosity piqued. Infected? Explain what you mean by that. Nino obliged. Magic in this world is a living force. Over time, it gathers and condenses in specific locations, eventually forming magical books. These books emit an aura that draws creatures like the wolf-born to them. If a creature gets too close, the book infects it, corrupting and transforming it into a magical beast. The stronger the book, the more powerful creature it can infect. And these magical beasts gain abilities from the book they guard.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Makima returned her gaze to the road ahead, her expression unreadable as she processed this information. ___ The group continued their journey in silence for a while. As they walked, Makima took out her whip, letting its coiled length unfurl. She began testing it, lashing at trees and nearby foliage with sharp, calculated movements. Each strike was precise, the whip snapping with an authoritative crack. This feels... natural. -she thought, a faint glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes It must be because im the control devil. How interesting. She lashed again, this time wrapping the whip cleanly around a tree trunk. A small, satisfied grin tugged at her lips. She could feel it, control was innate to her, in every movement and strike. ___ The sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the forest. The fading light made it harder to see their surroundings, and the air grew cooler. Were here. -Kleto announced, stopping in front of a crumbling stone structure nestled among the trees Makima studied the ruins ahead, her eyes narrowing. This is the church where the creature was spotted? Kleto nodded. Makimas gaze swept over the area. She sharpened her focus, hearing what the small animals around her heard. The forest seemed alive, every rustle and chirp distinct. Then, she caught it, a low, heavy breathing coming from her right, paired with the faint crunch of twigs snapping underfoot. Her golden eyes flicked to the source, and there, in the dim twilight, she saw them. Two blue eyes glowing with a predatory intensity, locked onto their group. Chapter 8 - Howls of defeat Makima faced the wolf-born, her golden eyes sharp as the beast charged toward her with terrifying speed. Instinctively, she tried to user her power, attempting to manipulate its mind. Yet, she felt resistance. Its mind was impenetrable without physical contact. She needed to touch it. Before she could act, the magical beast vanished in a blur and reappeared behind her. Its massive clawed hand slashed downward, slicing her cleanly in half. Makimas power surged to life. The fatal wound was transferred to Nino, who collapsed to the ground, her body severed as Makimas own body knit itself back together. She quickly retreated, putting distance between herself and the beast. Ninos lifeless body lay still. The hold Makima had over her dissipated with her final breath. I see... it has some kind of teleportation. Or it moves so fast that we cant see it. -she mused, her expression calm despite the situation Kleto is the only one left under my control. I have to keep him away from it. Kleto, g Before she could finish, the beast darted toward Kleto with frightening agility. It seized him, hurling him violently against a nearby tree. Kleto slumped to the ground, unconscious. Makimas eyes narrowed as she pulled out her whip, focusing on the towering creature before her. It stood over two meters tall, a fearsome wolf-like. Its piercing blue eyes glowed with unnatural energy, and the veins running along its powerful arms pulsed with the same eerie light.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. The beast lunged at her, its claws slicing through the air in a deadly arc. Makima sidestepped, ducking low and lashing out with her whip. It got struck by it, snapping against its side with a resounding crack. The wolf-born vanished again. Anticipating its move, Makima crouched and swung her whip in a wide arc above her, creating a protective barrier around herself. The beast reappeared and attacked, but the whip lashed it again, driving it back. Foolish creature. -Makima thought, her lips curling into a faint smirk With calculated precision, she flicked the whip around its body, entangling it. She darted forward, grabbing the beasts arm with her hand. It froze as Makimas control took hold. Makima tilted her head slightly, her tone cold and commanding as she spoke. "Now, i just need to make you submit to me." ... ... ... Its agonized howls echoed through the forest, reverberating into the night. The struggle was long and unrelenting until, finally, the beast surrendered. It lay motionless on the ground, its body battered and spirit crushed. The fight had drained it completely, and its eyes, once glowing with defiance, were now dim with resignation. There was no going back for the creature. It had acknowledged Makimas dominance. "Show me where the book is." -she ordered, her voice sharp and unwavering The wolf-born struggled to its feet, every movement labored with pain, and began to limp deeper into the forest. Makima followed silently, her golden eyes fixed on the creature as it led her through the shadowed trees. They arrived at the entrance of a cave. The wolf-born stepped inside, Makima trailing close behind. Within the cave, faint light illuminated a single object lying on the ground. Makima approached it, her gaze locking onto the book. She bent down and picked it up, running her fingers over the cover. One word was etched into it: Duplication. Oh? This could be useful. -she thought, a small smile curling her lips With that, Makima had acquired her first magic book.