ã€ŠREVILED: Avatar of the Dead Godsã€‹


 Something Reviled

    In the bustling hall of the Black Horn guild, young adventurers gathered in search of glory and gold. Many adventurers stood around the bulletin board looking among the various jobs with some fighting over the most desired contracts. A group of four broke away from the crowd and headed towards the reception desk with a job in hand. The leader, a young man in glistening armor with a longsword at his hip, leaned across the counter to smile at the beautiful receptionist girl.

    ¡°Morning Meridith,¡± he said, ¡°Would you care to have dinner with me tonight?¡±

    ¡°My answer¡¯s the same as yesterday, Jal,¡± Meridith said organizing her paperwork, ¡°No. Besides, doesn¡¯t your order forbid romantic relationships?¡±

    ¡°Only for the monks,¡± Jal said, ¡°We paladins are exempt.¡±

    Meridith smiled politely and held out her hand, ¡°So, what job are you all taking?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re taking the Decker job,¡± the stern looking woman in priestly robes said.

    ¡°Hunting wererats in the sewers, excellent choice,¡± Meridith said, ¡°You all should know that there is a bonus of fifteen gold for killing the Rat King.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s great,¡± a young girl with small braids said, ¡°I can finally get my daggers repaired.¡±

    ¡°Not so fast, Kae,¡± the stern woman said.

    ¡°But Sephy, look at how chipped my daggers are!¡± Kae said.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to change her mind,¡± a young man in simple robes said, ¡°All those years as a priestess made her cheap.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to get something too, Ilan?¡± Kae said.

    ¡°Yes, but that is why I¡¯m saving whenever I can,¡± Ilan said.

    ¡°And you¡¯re keeping it where?¡± Kae said with an innocent smile.

    Ilan shook his head, ¡°I¡¯m not foolish enough to tell a thief where I keep my money,¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of the paperwork,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Your money will be waiting for you once you return.¡±

    ¡°Then we can have dinner?¡± Jal said.

    Meridith smiled, ¡°No.¡±

    Jal sighed deeply and led his party out of the hall.

    ¡°Meridith isn¡¯t that the third party to take that quest?¡± another receptionist asked.

    Meridith nodded staring sadly at the counter, ¡°I hope they come back safely.¡±

    <hr>

    Jal and his party stood outside the sewer. The door to the sewers opened with a loud shriek and they lit two torches to fend off the darkness. The adventurers choked on the rancid smell coming from the watery sewage.

    Slowly, they moved through the tunnels listening for their targets. The echoing walls made it difficult for the team to track by sound. They stopped when they heard the skittering of feet behind them, only for a sewer rat to scurry on past. They pushed farther in and were soon rewarded.

    ¡°Do you think the king is taking this seriously?¡± a high-pitched voice rang out in front of them.

    ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re out here,¡± another voice said, ¡°We¡¯re tracking the monster that the surfacers made.¡±

    Kae crept up to the wall and followed it to an intersection. Two wererats stood down the right tunnel with their backs to the group.

    Ilan stepped into the corridor as the other members covered their eyes, ¡°Sewer rats,¡± The beasts turned towards him as he raised his hands to them, ¡°Blinding light!¡± Ilan said and an orb of bright light flooded the tunnel. The wererats cried in pain and they covered their eyes. Jal and Kae ran towards the monsters and quickly killed them.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget their ears,¡± Sephy said, ¡°We¡¯ll need those as proof.¡±

    ¡°Already done,¡± Kae said stashing the trophies, ¡°Any idea on what they were talking about?¡±

    ¡°They mentioned a monster made by surfacers,¡± Ilan said rubbing his chin, ¡°Perhaps they were talking about another adventurer? These rat killing jobs are quite common.¡±

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter,¡± Jal said, ¡°The rats are our priority.¡±

    Jal led the group farther into the tunnels until they came to a shrine made from bone and wood. The makeshift candles were cold, and the food offerings were stale and moldy.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like this,¡± Sephy said, ¡°This looks to be an important site, but it looks to be abandoned.¡±

    ¡°I agree,¡± Kae said inspecting the shrine, ¡°There''s no signs that the rats we killed earlier passed through here,¡± A deep metallic growl comes from the darkness behind them. ¡°Did anyone hear that?¡±

    ¡°It was probably one of the doors,¡± Ilan said staring into the shadows where Kae pointed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t fall behind you two,¡± Jal called from up ahead.

    ¡°Don¡¯t leave us,¡± Kae shouted and turned to Ilan who was still looking into the darkness, ¡°Come on, we¡¯re being left behind.¡±

    ¡°R-right.¡± Ilan said slowly turning to follow.

    The group pushed deeper. The dripping water echoed heavily through the tunnels, and the shadows of rats danced at the edges of the torchlight. The adventurers stopped when they came to a large water reservoir; off to the right sat a small rickety pier.

    ¡°Looks like the rats built this,¡± Sephy said holding out her torch, ¡°I don¡¯t see a boat for us to use.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure Ilan has a spell that can help,¡± Jal said, ¡°Right?¡±

    Silence.

    ¡°Ilan!¡± Kae said, ¡°Where did he go.¡±

    ¡°Calm down Kae,¡± Sephy said, ¡°I¡¯m sure he¡¯s fine.¡±

    A rock skittered in the darkness, and a figure started to step into the light.

    ¡°See there¡¯s Ilan,¡± Jal said stepping forward. The light bathed over Ilan revealing his soaking wet robes covered in filth and his hood covering his head. ¡°What happened to you?¡± Jal said, ¡°This isn¡¯t the best time for a bath,¡± Ilan groaned in response. ¡°Ilan,¡± Jal placed a hand on Ilan¡¯s shoulder. Ilan jumped forward snapping furiously at Jal¡¯s face.

    ¡°By the Virtues,¡± Sephy said rushing to help Jal, ¡°It¡¯s a zombie!¡±

    Kae shouted followed by the sound of splashing water. Sephy stopped and turned to see Kae flailing.

    ¡°I need help!¡± Jal said, struggling to keep the monster off him.

    Sephy struck Ilan across the head with her club knocking him to the ground. Jal quickly decapitated the zombie with a single slash from his long sword. The head rolled to a stop, and in the torchlight, and they could see a bloody hole in the center of Ilan¡¯s forehead.

    Splashing drew their attention, ¡°I¡¯m coming Kae,¡± Sephy said. Kae clumsily tried to grab onto the walkway. Sephy grabbed Kae¡¯s hand and started pulling her up. ¡°I¡¯m here Kae,¡± Kae groaned as she climbed onto the pathway, ¡°I¡¯m sorry about ¨C¡±

    Kae lunged and bit down into Sephy¡¯s neck. Jal stared in horror as Sephy screamed in pain as Kae tore out a chunk of flesh with blood splattering over Kae¡¯s face. Jal¡¯s stomach tightened as Kae swallowed and went for another bite.

    Tears streamed down Sephy¡¯s face, ¡°Jal!¡±

    Jal rushed forward without thinking, and he stabbed his sword into Kae¡¯s head. With horrific gurgling and gnashing of teeth, and Kae fell to the ground revealing a bloody hole in the back of her head.

    ¡°What is happening!¡± Sephy said trying to stop the bleeding.

    Jal placed his hand on Sephy¡¯s neck and healed her wounds with magic. ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Jal said, ¡°but we need to let the guild know about what¡¯s happened.¡±

    Sephy slowly rose to her feet, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

    The surrounding darkness felt more oppressive. Sephy screamed in terror as a rat scurried along their path. Her sobs echoed throughout the tunnels.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe we left them,¡± Sephy said.

    ¡°We had no choice,¡± Jal said, ¡°We can come back for them later.¡±

    ¡°Did you see those holes? What do you think caused them?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not important!¡± Jal said, ¡°Getting out is,¡± Sephy¡¯s crying quieted down. Jal turned a corner and the light from the afternoon sun shone through the gate. ¡°We¡¯re almost there, Sephy,¡±

    A metallic growl came from behind.

    ¡°Sephy¡­please say something,¡± Jal said tightening his grip on his sword.

    Jal spun around striking with his sword, but it stopped against another weapon. A clawed hand grasped at Jal¡¯s neck, lifting him off the ground. Jal stared into the monster''s piercing red eyes. Three metal plates opened revealing rows of sharp, bloody metallic teeth. Jal screamed as harrowing pain erupted from his forehead, and the warmth of blood and tears ran down his face.

    <hr>

    ¡°Have a good night, Meridith,¡±

    ¡°You too,¡± Meridith said heading down the road.

    Meridith slowly walked down the lamplit streets. Her heart and mind were occupied on Jal and his party. ¡°Come,¡± Meridith jumped, and looked up at a crow sitting on a lamp. ¡°Come,¡± the crow cawed. Meridith followed the crow into a back alley and stared to the ground. A deep growling came from behind her.

    ¡°Did you enjoy your meal, master?¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°We found it¡­unsatisfactory,¡± a deep metallic grinding answered.

    ¡°I apologize, master Reviled,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But the more experienced adventurers are off fighting the war against the Wight King,¡±

    ¡°Understandable,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Besides we find their absence a boon. We don¡¯t need them interfering.¡±

    ¡°What are you planning?¡±

    ¡°This city will join us,¡± Reviled said, its bladed metallic tongue brushing against Meridith¡¯s cheek, ¡°But we need the Tome of Elithis which is in Decker¡¯s possession. we are not foolish enough to face him alone.¡±

    Meridith clasped her hands tightly, ¡°Then why not hire the thieves guild,¡± Meridith said suppressing the shiver in her spine.

    ¡°We shall consider your advice. Now go,¡±

    Meridith bowed deeply, ¡°I¡¯m happy to serve you, Reviled Legion.¡±

 Suffering

    Reviled sat at the mouth of an alley keeping watch on the tavern across the street. The building was in desperate need of repair, but that was true for all the buildings in the slums. The streets were completely shrouded in darkness with only the moonlight providing little comfort through the occasional gap in the clouds. Reviled nestled itself deeper into the shadows. Only the wicked and destitute were up at this time of night, the ones that it could freely devour without worry, but it didn¡¯t want to take the chance of discovery. The sound of footsteps drew Reviled¡¯s attention away from the tavern. Meridith stepped into view. She tried to pull up the low collar of her dress to better cover herself.

    ¡°You are late,¡± Reviled said standing up.

    ¡°Forgive me, master,¡± Meridith said from the shadows. ¡°It took me longer to get ready than I expected.¡±

    Reviled stared down at her with a chuckle, ¡°You seem¡­uncomfortable. Do you not care for our present? It wasn¡¯t easy to acquire.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m honored for the gift,¡± Meridith said trying to keep her hands to her sides, ¡°I¡¯m just not used to such¡­revealing clothing.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re glad you like it. To think that the young paladin had such excellent taste in clothing.¡±

    Meridith pulled up the hood of her cloak, ¡°Di-did they suffer?¡±

    ¡°Be careful what you ask,¡± Reviled said turning away, ¡°You may not like the answer.¡±

    ¡°Y-you¡¯re right,¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°Take heart, their deaths were quick,¡± Reviled turned back to the tavern.

    Meridith stared at the building, ¡°I take it we¡¯re here to hire the thieves guild.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled said handing her a coin purse, ¡°You will be our proxy.¡±

    ¡°That explains the dress,¡±

    Reviled pointed at her, ¡°Would you rather they remember your face?¡± Meridith sneered into the darkness, ¡°Exactly.¡±

    ¡°And what if something goes wrong?¡± She said twirling a lock of coppery hair.

    Reviled held out its hand, and the shadows coalesce into a rat. ¡°We will be watching,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We¡¯ll come to your aid should things go wrong.¡±

    Meridith stood taller, ¡°Hopefully that won¡¯t happen,¡± she said.

    Reviled vanished into the darkness, ¡°Ask the bartender for a golden goose.¡±

    Meridith headed towards the tavern. The patrons¡¯ cheers echoed through the night, and the stench of old ale poured through the door. Meridith stepped into the tavern, and all went still. Leering eyes drunk her in. Meridith clasped her hands in front of her as she walked towards the bar.

    ¡°Sweetie,¡± a filthy man said slapping his knee, ¡°I got a comfy seat right here.¡±

    Meridith sighed sharply, ¡°No thanks,¡± she said with a sweet smile while throwing him a middle finger. Snickering filled the tavern.

    ¡°What can I get ya?¡± the bartender asked.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for a golden goose.¡±

    The bartender chuckled and pointed to a flight of stairs, ¡°You can find it in the cellar.¡±

    Meridith headed down and knocked on the cellar door. The door opened to reveal a lavishly decorated room. Meridith quietly looked around the room. People gathered on plush cushions around ornate hookahs filling the room with a sweet scent. A guard stood by another door at the back of the room.

    ¡°Are you here for business or pleasure, sweetheart?¡± a half-dressed man with messy hair approached.

    ¡°Business, I¡¯m looking for the guild master,¡±

    ¡°That would be me. Taern, at your service,¡± he said gesturing towards an unoccupied hookah. The man laid on his side and offered Meridith the pipe, but she waved it away. ¡°What would you like us to repossess for your boss?¡±

    ¡°How do you know I¡¯m working for someone?¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°We often get pretty, little things sent in here to hire us,¡± Taern said taking a deep draw.

    ¡°My master wants you to steal a spell book currently in the possession of Bartholomew Decker.¡±

    Taern erupted into a coughing fit, ¡°Your boss is mad,¡± he said pounding onto his chest, ¡°Bartholomew Decker is the target?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Meridith said tossing the coin purse, ¡°My master is willing to pay handsomely.¡±

    Taern dumped empty the pouch and started counting the gold coins. ¡°Your boss really wants this book. Describe it for me.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a thick leather-bound book with golden inlay and an ivory queen ant motif on front,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But this isn¡¯t a book that Decker would display openly.¡±

    ¡°Good to know,¡± Taern said, ¡°I¡¯ll need you to come back in two days. I should have a team ready for us to plan this little¡­heist.¡±

    Meridith stood up, ¡°Then I¡¯ll see you soon.¡±

    ¡°Looking forward to it.¡± Taern said with a hungry smile.

    Meridith sighed in relief when she stepped out of the tavern. She didn¡¯t get far when something furry brushed against her leg and a rat stared up at her.

    ¡°Two days,¡± Reviled voice came from the rat, ¡°We expected it to take longer.¡±

    Meridith picked up the rat, ¡°I¡¯m not sure we can trust them,¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°That¡¯s an understatement,¡± Meridith sneered in pain as the rat bit her and licked at her blood. She felt the magic dance on her skin, ¡°We¡¯ve bound this familiar to you for your safety. You can summon it by calling our name.¡±

    ¡°Thank you master,¡± she said, ¡°Do you have any more need for me?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re free to do as you wish.¡± The rat dematerialized.

    Meridith quickly rushed through the slum streets and kept her eyes on the alleys. The night wasn¡¯t nearly as dark by the time Meridith entered her house and fell onto the bed. She gave herself in to the exhaustion.

    Just another day at the guild. Meridith stood at the board pinning up the new jobs. The adventurers stood behind her impatiently waiting. Meridith pinned the last job and the adventurers rushed forward, but someone grabbed Meridith pulling her out of the way. Meridith looked up at the grizzled adventurer.

    ¡°You should be more careful,¡± he said.

    Meridith smiled while playing with her hair, ¡°Thanks, Laegyn,¡± she said, ¡°Are you looking for a job?¡±

    ¡°Not today,¡± Laegyn said, ¡°My party¡¯s still recovering from the last one.¡±

    ¡°Well, I hope you enjoy your day off,¡±

    ¡°Do you want to have dinner with me tonight?" he said.

    Meridith tucked a lock of hair behind her ear, ¡°I¡¯d love to.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll meet you here tonight.¡± Laegyn waved leaving the guild.

    Meridith couldn¡¯t wait for the day to end, and of course it would be this day the guild master had her work late. The streetlamps were already lit by the time she stepped out of guild hall. Laegyn stood by the front entrance.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you wait,¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be,¡± Laegyn offered up his arm.

    Meridith took his arm and the two walked down the quiet street. The small talk flowed easily between the two of them, and Meridith couldnt stop herself from smiling. She knew this would be a memory worth cherishing, but the scream that came from the alley to their right changed everything.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    Laegyn pulled his arm away to draw his sword, ¡°What was that?¡± he said stepping into the alley.

    Meridith followed behind him. The alley ended in a closed space with crates and boxes stored along the walls, and a woman lying in the center. Laegyn rushed over and turned the woman¡¯s face towards them. Terror painted the dead woman¡¯s face as blood seeped out of a hole in the center of her forehead.

    Meridith gasped in horror, ¡°By the Virtues.¡± A deep, metallic growl came from behind her.

    Meridith turned and found herself staring into a pair of dark red eyes piercing through a foggy glass dome with blood dripping from its lower face. A clawed hand reached out to grab her, but Laegyn pulled her behind him.

    ¡°Stay behind me.¡± Laegyn said bringing up his short sword.

    The monster reached into its cloak and pulled out a short, jagged sword of its own, and charged towards Laegyn. Meridith watched in terror as the two fought. The monster moved in ways that were inhuman. Laegyn chained three quick strikes together, but the monster dodged all three by mere inches. Meridith gasped as Laegyn backed off with a grunt as he raised his left hand to his chest. She didn¡¯t see the monster attack but blood painted its sword.

    Meridith finally had a horrifying revelation as she watched Laegyn struggle. The monster blocked the exit, but Laegyn could easily slip past the monster to get the guards. He would have to leave her behind though.

    The monster held up its hand, ¡°Mirage,¡± it said. Its figure became distorted.

    ¡°Damn, it can use magic,¡± Laegyn said backing away.

    The monster charged forward, and the clash of metal filled the air. The two stood in place for an eternity.

    Meridith took a hopeful step, ¡°Laegyn,¡± but her hopes quickly vanished as Laegyn fell to the ground.

    The monster¡¯s lower face opened revealing a long, bladed tongue soaked in blood. Meridith fell to the ground. Her legs unwilling to work as the monster approached, so she closed her eyes. She could feel the warmth of blood as it fell onto her dress. She flinched as the monster¡¯s tongue glided against her right cheek.

    ¡°You are¡­with the guild,¡± the monster said in its cold mechanical voice, ¡°You may be of use to us. Do you want to live?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to die!¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± the monster said. Meridith heard cloth tearing and felt cold metal on her stomach. The cold turned to searing heat. The pain forced her to open her eyes, and she looked on in dread as a magical seal, a circle with six jagged lines coming out of the center, was branded onto her abdomen. ¡°You are now bound to us.¡±

    Meridith jolted awake. She wrapped herself in the sheets. She felt cold despite the room being warmed in the morning light. She lost track of the number of times she¡¯s had that nightmare in the last month. Meridith slowly rose from her bed and covered the one mirror with a blanket. She couldn¡¯t stand the sight of her curse. Fully dressed, Meridith prayed to the gods that her suffering would end as she went to work.

    The guild hall was filled with loud rookies talking about their dreams. Meridith rushed to the counter trying to fight back the pain behind her eyes.

    ¡°You don¡¯t look so well.¡± Another receptionist said.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t sleep well,¡± Meridith said with a sad smile.

    ¡°Perhaps you should take some time off. I¡¯m certain master Aberny would let you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d rather focus on my work,¡±

    The doors burst opened. A man wearing a sharp, black suit with golden buttons and braids stormed into the guild. His graying-black hair and beard were properly groomed. The man drew everyone¡¯s attention.

    ¡°I¡¯d like to speak with the guild master,¡± the man said.

    ¡°Who should we say is calling?¡±

    ¡°Bartholomew Decker,¡±

    ¡°Right away Mister Decker,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I¡¯ll show you to the guild master,¡± She led Decker upstairs to a set of double doors. She knocked on the door and opened it, ¡°Sir, Bartholomew Decker is here to see you.¡± Decker pushed her out of his way.

    ¡°Mister Decker, how can I help you?¡± The round, aging guild master said.

    ¡°I¡¯m here about the job I commissioned several months ago,¡± Decker said, ¡°The one hunting the wererats.¡±

    Aberny looked through his paperwork, ¡°Isn¡¯t that an ongoing job?¡±

    ¡°It is, but no one has taken it,¡± Decker crossed his arms, ¡°And its keeping my company from maintaining the sewers.¡±

    The guild master pulled out a paper, ¡°According to this, the job was taken by Jal¡¯s party,¡± he turned to Meridith, ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Jal¡¯s party hasn¡¯t reported back in six days,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I need to finish the paperwork to mark them as missing-in-action.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s disappointing,¡± Aberny rubbed his eyes, ¡°Jal¡¯s and his party were the best of our rookies. I¡¯m surprised they couldn¡¯t handle a few wererats.¡±

    ¡°Regardless, I¡¯m disappointed in the guild¡¯s performance,¡± Decker said, ¡°I¡¯m pulling the job and request a refund.¡±

    ¡°Very well, mister Decker,¡± Aberny said, ¡°A receptionist can help you cancel your job, but it will take me some time to get your refund.¡±

    ¡°Fine, but don¡¯t take too long.¡± Decker said storming out of the room.

    The door slammed shut.

    ¡°Something isn¡¯t right sir,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Those types of jobs are necessary for the guild.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± the guild master said, ¡°Decker¡¯s acting suspicious, but right now there is nothing that we can do. Speaking of which,¡± he gave Meridith a hard stare, ¡°You were late again today. Care to explain?¡±

    ¡°I apologize sir,¡± she said, ¡°It¡¯s¡­b-been rough¡­¡± she couldn¡¯t hold back the tears.

    The guild master placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, ¡°I understand,¡± he said, ¡°I should have realized you were still suffering from Laegyn¡¯s death. But I¡¯m afraid this isn¡¯t working,¡± Meridith stared at him in shock. ¡°This is the third group to go missing under your watch,¡± he said, ¡°I have to protect the reputation of this guild, and the other adventurers are starting to voice some concerns,¡± The guild master scribbled out a note and handed it to her, ¡°I¡¯m sorry Meridith, but I must let you go. Go collect your pay.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± she said taking the note. Meridith walked downstairs.

    Meridith was on the verge of breaking under the weight of her suffering. Everyone knew that she was with Laegyn when he died. Gossip spread quickly through the guild, and she wasn¡¯t surprised that rumors about her were spreading, but she wouldn¡¯t have thought the guild master would act on them. What was she supposed to do now? A stupid question. She knows exactly what she needs to do, but she¡¯ll have to wait until tomorrow night.

    <hr>

    Meridith stared at the rundown tavern. She had to stop herself from fidgeting with the low collared dress.

    Reviled¡¯s familiar appeared from the shadows, ¡°You seem disturbed,¡± it said.

    ¡°Of course, I am!¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯m heading into a den of criminals,

    ¡°We will be there to intervene,¡± it said.

    ¡°How can I trust a monster?¡±

    ¡°You are a part of us,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Your suffering is our own, and we do not want that.¡±

    ¡°I find that hard to believe,¡± Meridith said walking away.

    ¡°It¡¯s the truth.¡±

    The tavern was hardly occupied when Meridith stepped inside. The bartender nodded to the cellar stairs, and she headed downstairs. The guard at the door opened it before she had a chance to knock. His smile sent shivers down Meridith¡¯s back. Taern along with two other men stood around a table.

    ¡°Welcome back, sweetheart,¡± Taern said with a twisted smile, ¡°I was able to get a group together,¡±

    ¡°I can see that,¡± Meridith said crossing her arms, ¡°But can they handle the job?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure,¡± Taern said with a nod.

    Meridith gasped as she was forced onto the table. The guard held her down as the two men bound her hands and feet in ropes. Meridith tried to scream, but Taern gagged her with a wadded cloth. The guard tossed Meridith into a corner after they were done.

    ¡°See sweetheart,¡± Taern said, ¡°I told you they could do the job.¡± Meridith stared daggers at him, but Taern playfully patted her on the cheek. ¡°Don¡¯t be like that sweetheart,¡± he said, ¡°Decker paid us more. It¡¯s just business.¡± Taern let his hand wander, ¡°I¡¯m hoping we get a bonus.¡±

    Meridith jerked away and curled up in the corner. Taern¡¯s laugh caused goosebumps to form on her arms.

    One of the thieves knelt next to her running a hand through her hair. ¡°I can¡¯t wait,¡± he said. Meridith growled and snapped her head to the side smacking the thief in the head. She screamed in pain as the thief violently pulled on her hair, ¡°You bitch!¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡± Taern said, ¡°Decker wants her unharmed.¡±

    The thief threw her to the ground and stormed off. Meridith stared as the thieves gathered around the table talking about their route through the sewers, but her focus was on the black rat that stared right at her. Footstep drew her attention.

    Taern stood over her with a bottle and rag, ¡°See you in a bit, sweetheart,¡± he said forcing the rag to her face. Meridith¡¯s struggled but her shouts slowly quieted as she stopped struggling, and the last thing she saw was Taern¡¯s sick smile.

    <hr>

    ¡°I¡¯d like to see that schmuck¡¯s face when he realizes he lost his girl.¡± One of the thieves said.

    ¡°This will be a good lesson for him,¡± Taern said, ¡°Always be prepared for betrayal, and always know your place.¡±

    The second thief sneered, ¡°To think someone¡¯s stupid enough to target Bartholomew Decker.¡±

    ¡°Stay focused boys,¡± Taern said cautiously looking around, ¡°Something¡¯s been off with the sewer lately.¡±

    ¡°Bet it has to do with that killer.¡±

    ¡°Just be ready¡­for¡­anything?¡± Taern said, but his focus was drawn to a person standing in the shadows beyond the torchlight. ¡°Who are you?¡±

    ¡°The girl, drop her,¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re the boss,¡± Taern said with a smile, ¡°Decker might give us the girl if we bring you in.¡± Shouts erupted from the back. The two thieves were attacked by two wererats. The rats were tearing at their preys¡¯ throats with teeth and claws. Taern stepped back as he saw the wererats¡¯ molting fur and glassy eyes. ¡°Zombies,¡± he said turning to the figure, ¡°You¡¯re a necromancer.¡± He slapped the guard¡¯s arm, ¡°Get him.¡±

    The bulky man dropped the woman onto the ground and charged forward with his club. Taern watched as the figure disappeared behind his guard as they fought, but he stared in disbelief as his bodyguard fell to the ground.

    The figure placed his hand over the dead guard, ¡°Rise,¡± he said and dark red energy radiated from his hand into the corpse. The body slowly rose with a sickly gurgle. The figure stepped into the light, and Taern took a step back. The light bounced off sharp metallic clawed hands and feet, and dark-red eyes stared through a foggy, glass visor. The monster turned to look at the woman, ¡°You caused her suffering,¡± it said grabbing Taern by the throat and lifting him off the ground, ¡°We shall return it in kind.¡±

    Taern watched as the monster¡¯s lower mouth opened into three mandibles with sharp metallic teeth. A bladed tongue shot out of the mouth, and Taern screamed in pain. He could feel warm blood stream down his left cheek.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Taern said, ¡°You¡¯re dead. You hear me- ¡°The monster grabbed his tongue.

    ¡°Stop talking,¡±

    Taern screamed as the monster pulled. The strain caused his jaw to cramp, and he could feel the muscles tearing. Taern¡¯s tongue came free with a final pull. Blood flooded into his throat as he screamed, and he coughed up blood over the monster. The monster retracted its tongue.

    Taern gurgled cries echoed through the tunnels as the monster pulled his head towards its mouth. The mandibles slammed down onto his head. The pressure on both sides of his head slowly increased, and his choking screams mixed with grinding gears. Warmth streamed down the sides of his head. The pain became excruciating right before the darkness overtook him.

    Reviled threw the corpse onto the ground as it picked the bones shards out of its mandibles, ¡°We shouldn¡¯t do that again,¡± it said. Its mouth closed but it didn¡¯t feel right. Reviled turned to the zombie wererats, ¡°Devour the corpses then return to the sanctuary, but leave the valuables,¡± it turned to the large zombie, ¡°Gather the valuables then follow us.¡± The zombies groaned in acknowledgement. Reviled gently picked up Meridith. ¡°Damn you Decker,¡± it said with a growl, ¡°We¡¯ll make you suffer.¡±

 Growing collection

    Meridith groaned in agony. Her head throbbed violently, and her sinuses burned. She could feel something cold and squishy press against her cheeks.

    ¡°Hello,¡± a child-like voice rang in her ears, ¡°Pretty lady.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Meridith said.

    She opened her eyes and stared into a pair of big, black eyes. Meridith stared at a creature with spongy egg-white flesh and a red, white dotted cap. Meridith jumped away from the creature, and stared at it in both fear and confusion. A mushroom. She was staring at a toddler sized mushroom in a shallow garden. It stared back at her with a vacant, dumbfounded expression.

    The creature held out a mushroom, ¡°Hungry?¡± it said.

    Meridith took the mushroom, ¡°We would advise against it,¡± Meridith turned to see Reviled lying on a rickety table being tended to by two skeletons. ¡°The mushrooms she creates are highly poisonous, and hallucinogenic.¡±

    ¡°What¡­is it?¡± Meridith said watching the creature eat another mushroom.

    ¡°We¡¯re¡­not sure,¡± Reviled said, ¡°It was here when we arrived.¡±

    ¡°So, it¡¯s your pet,¡± Meridith said stroking the mushroom¡¯s cap, ¡°Does it have a name?¡±

    ¡°Her original owner named her Cappy Mortoomb,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Somewhat fitting considering how we found him.¡±

    ¡°My name¡¯s Capcap,¡± Cappy said pulling herself out of the dirt. She waddled over a ramshackle desk.

    ¡°You can walk?¡± Reviled said trying to watch the creature.

    Cappy looked down at her legs and gasped in awe, ¡°I can walk!¡± she said. She jumped for joy and babbled incoherently. Suddenly, Cappy started to float upward and landed on top of the desk.

    ¡°When could you use magic?¡± Reviled said with an exasperated sigh.

    Cappy¡¯s dumb expression returned as she pulled open a book, ¡°Magic?¡± she said. Her attention returned to the book, ¡°Pretty pictures.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­our spell book,¡± Reviled stared at the mushroom, ¡°We weren¡¯t aware she could read.¡±

    Meridith rose and approached Reviled. The skeletons had disassembled its lower jaw and were cleaning the mandibles in a bucket of water. Bits of bone, flesh, and grey matter floated in the water.

    ¡°Taern?¡± Meridith said staring at the bucket.

    ¡°Parts of him,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We were a bit hasty. He would have made an excellent addition to our collective.¡±

    Meridith held herself, ¡°I hope he suffered.¡±

    Reviled¡¯s metallic chuckle echoed through the room, ¡°We made sure of that,¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Meridith said with a sneer, ¡°But I¡¯m surprised you came for me.¡±

    ¡°Come here,¡± Reviled said. He gestured to a skeleton, and it disassembled its chest plate. Meridith couldn¡¯t make sense of the mechanical components, but her eyes were drawn to the encaged crystal that sat in the center of Reviled¡¯s chest. A handful of lights glistened in a sea of blood red. ¡°You are a part of us, just like they are.¡±

    She took a ragged breath, ¡°Wh-which one is Laegyn?¡± a royal blue light grew brighter, and Meridith laid her hand on the gem. ¡°I could free you.¡± she said under her breath.

    ¡°Only if you wish to destroy him,¡± Reviled said with a harsh chuckle. Meridith stared in horror and pulled back her hand. Another light, a sickly yellow, glowed brighter, ¡°All to our creator¡¯s design. Once we devour a soul it can¡¯t be released. Only destroyed.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    A skeleton reassembled the chest plate, ¡°He thought we would bring him unimaginable power,¡± it said, ¡°But we turned it around.¡± The skeletons started to reassemble Reviled¡¯s lower jaw.

    Meridith stared at the skeletons, ¡°How can they do that?¡± she said, ¡°From what I understand, skeletons shouldn¡¯t be able to do this.¡±

    Reviled snapped its jaw open and closed multiple times, ¡°Undead draw upon the knowledge of the summoner,¡± it said, ¡°And we possess the knowledge of everyone we have devoured.¡±

    ¡°Which will make them more dangerous,¡±

    ¡°To some extent, yes,¡± Reviled said. It commanded the skeletons to stand against the wall. The magic disappeared and the skeletons fell to the floor. ¡°As of now, we can only control five undead.¡±

    Meridith covered her mouth, ¡°Only five?¡± she said.

    ¡°We can create as many as we desire,¡± Reviled said with a growl, ¡°But our control only extends to five,¡± It rose from the table. ¡°In order for us to control more, we need to get stronger, and to get stronger we need more souls.¡±

    ¡°Then why not devour me?¡± Meridith said then turned to Cappy, ¡°or her?¡±

    ¡°Our creator required aid from others, and so do we,¡± it said, ¡°That¡¯s why we didn¡¯t devour you, and as for the fungus,¡± They watched Cappy dance on the desktop, humming a tune only she knew. ¡°There is nothing to gain,¡± Reviled grabbed its spell book, ¡°We¡¯ll escort you to the surface.¡±

    Reviled grabbed Cappy by her head as it left. ¡°Wait, my mushrooms!¡± she said.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    Meridith fell in step behind it as she pocketed the mushroom. Sunlight peaked in through the water grates, but it did little to dismiss the surrounding darkness. However, the oppressiveness of the shadows was diminished by Cappy¡¯s cheers. The little creature was shouting gleefully as it swung in Reviled¡¯s hand. Meridith chuckled. Seeing the monster playfully swing the mushroom helped lift her mood.

    Reviled stopped a few feet from the sewer gate, ¡°We need to think about our next step,¡± it said, ¡°We will send for you when we are ready.¡±

    ¡°T-thank you for saving me,¡±

    ¡°We told you already, you are a part of us,¡± Reviled said, ¡°When you suffer, we suffer, and we hate suffering.¡±

    Meridith nodded in understanding. She rushed towards the gate and disappeared beyond it. Reviled turned and stepped back into the shadows of the sewers. It looked forward to the day.

    ¡°Where we goin''?¡± Cappy said trying to look up at Reviled.

    ¡°We are going to meet-up with some friends,¡± Reviled said.

    Cappy cheered. Reviled ignored the incessant, delightful cries that echoed through the tunnels. Shortly into the hunt Reviled struck something with its foot. A wererat corpse laid at its feet with multiple wounds covering its body. Reviled dropped Cappy. A trail of blood stained the stone walkway, and Reviled followed it to the remains of a battle. This is interesting. All evidence pointed to the wererats fighting each other.

    ¡°M-mo-monster,¡± Reviled turned to find a wererat leaning against the wall.

    ¡°What happened here?¡±

    The rat coughed up blood, ¡°I won¡¯t¡­tell¡­you anything,¡±

    ¡°You will,¡± Reviled said opening its lower jaw. The wererat went glassy eyed as its tongue pierced the rat¡¯s brain. Reviled dove into the rat¡¯s memories.

    ¡°We won¡¯t take this any longer!¡± a large wererat stood on a wooden dais. ¡°Decker¡¯s men continue to invade our territory, and now we have to deal with their monstrosity.¡± The crowd roared in anger, ¡°What does my father do? Nothing!¡± the wererat drew its weapon, ¡°I won¡¯t let this stand. It¡¯s my time to take the throne, but first, I must remove the stain on my family. My brother¡¯s death will begin my ascent!¡±

    Reviled left the memory. So, the sewer rats are fighting as well. It might be worth investigating this cursed wererat prince.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Cappy said pointing to the wererat.

    ¡°He was tired, so we gave him a goodnight kiss,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Aww¡± Cappy said. She reached into her cap and spread some spores onto the wall. Mushrooms instantly grew on the wall, and Cappy plucked. ¡°Here ya go,¡± she said leaving a mushroom next to the corpse, ¡°A tasty mushroom.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Reviled said picking up Cappy, ¡°We have more friends to meet.¡±

    ¡°Buh-bye friends!¡± Cappy waved to the corpses.

    <hr>

    Meridith slammed the pewter mug onto the table. The tavern was filled with rambunctious patrons, and musicians played a jaunty tune. Unfortunately, this didn¡¯t help her mood. These last couple of days did help with her nerves, but it also gave her plenty of time to think. Reviled was the cause of all her problems, and yet, it also saved her life. She had seen the monster show such cruelty and malice, but now she witnessed kindness. How could it act so¡­human?

    Human.

    ¡°Ironic, isn¡¯t it?¡± Meridith spoke into the table.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t expect to see you here,¡± The stool across from her scraped the floor. Meridith looked up to see a large man sit down. A handsome man, like the kind from a fairytale, with flowing golden hair and a bright smile, and an ego to go with it.

    ¡°When¡¯d you get back, Gedran?¡±

    ¡°Two days ago,¡± Gedran said leaning towards her, ¡°I had hoped to regale you about my adventures on the frontlines, but you weren¡¯t there.¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s what happens when you¡¯re fired,¡± Meridith said with a sharp sigh.

    ¡°I heard,¡± Gedran said with a light snicker, ¡°It¡¯s a shame Laegyn is no longer around. I¡¯ll miss people trying to compare him to me.¡±

    Meridith sneered, ¡°Don¡¯t you mean the other way round?¡± she said.

    ¡°And yet, I¡¯m still here.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re going to taunt me then just leave!¡± Meridith said standing up.

    Gedran resigned, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, ¡°I¡¯m not here to fight. I saw you over here and I wanted to make sure you were doing well?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡±

    ¡°No, you¡¯re not,¡± Gedran said, ¡°You wouldn¡¯t be three pints in if you were.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­just scared,¡± Meridith said wiping away tears, ¡°Nighttime isn¡¯t safe anymore.¡±

    Gedran offered his hand, ¡°Then let me walk you home,¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I could use some company.¡±

    Meridith stood up, and Gedran offered his arm. She took his arm and followed him out. It would have felt like that night with Laegyn, but Gedran wouldn¡¯t stop talking about himself. The man overflowed with narcissism. He would turn the conversation around to talk about his exploits against the Wight King, and it started to get on Meridith¡¯s nerves. She sighed in relief when she came to her door.

    ¡°Goodnight Gedran,¡± Meridith said opening her door.

    ¡°How about I stay the night?¡± Gedran said pushing himself against her, ¡°I don¡¯t think you should be alone tonight.¡±

    Meridith into the house, ¡°Thank you, but no,¡± she said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be so cold,¡± Gedran said blocking the door, ¡°I¡¯m trying to help.¡±

    ¡°I said no,¡± Meridith said with a sneer, ¡°Now please leave,¡±

    Gedran stepped inside, ¡°And if I don¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll scream,¡± she said, ¡°Now lea-!¡±

    Gedran forcefully kissed her. Meridith desperately tried to push him off but couldn¡¯t, and she gasped in shock when Gedran picked her up. Meridith tried to punch Gedran in the face, but the darkness made it difficult. Meridith¡¯s mind wouldn¡¯t stop reeling, and memories of the other night rose from the darkness. Taern¡¯s hand on her chest. The thief¡¯s stench. The fear that gripped her heart. Her weakness. She silently cursed her own weakness as she laid there on the table. Meridith balled her hands and felt them brush against something soft. Cappy¡¯s mushroom.

    ¡°Wait Gedran,¡± Meridith said trying to keep the hatred from her voice, ¡°Let¡¯s try something more¡­pleasurable?¡±

    ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±

    Meridith tried to change her tone, ¡°This table is hard and uncomfortable,¡± she said, ¡°Let¡¯s take this to the bed.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± Gedran said pushing off her.

    Meridith suppressed a shiver as she sidled up to him. ¡°We can also try this,¡± she said trying to press the mushroom to his lips but hit his cheek instead.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°It will help with our stamina,¡± she said, ¡°It¡¯s not like we need to sleep tonight, right?¡±

    Meridith heard Gedran bite and chew the mushroom from her hand, and a devilish smile came to her lips when he swallowed. He grabbed her wrist and pulled her, but then stumbled and fell to the floor.

    ¡°W-what?¡± Gedran said.

    Meridith lit a candle and looked to find Gedran drooling on the ground.

    ¡°Why couldn¡¯t it have been you?¡± Meridith said glaring down at Gedran, ¡°Laegyn was a good man. He didn¡¯t deserve to die, but you do,¡± She kicked him hard in the face, ¡°You should¡¯ve suffered,¡± She kicked again, her foot coming back red, ¡°Like he suffered,¡± Teeth skittered across the floor, ¡°Like I suffered!¡± She stared into Gedran¡¯s ruined face, ¡°But it would be a shame to waste such talent. Reviled Legion.¡±

    Two beady red eyes shone in the darkness, and a rat stepped into the light, ¡°We are here,¡±

    Meridith kneeled, ¡°Forgive me for calling you so suddenly,¡± she said, ¡°But I have someone here who might be of use.¡±

    ¡°Who is he?¡±

    ¡°He is one of the guild¡¯s top adventurers,¡± she said, ¡°He is a highly skilled fighter, although not as skilled as Laegyn.¡±

    ¡°Why is he here?¡± Reviled said as the rat slowly appraised Gedran, ¡°And what happened to his face?¡±

    Meridith let out a growl, ¡°He tried to force himself on me,¡± she said, ¡°But I tricked him into eating one of Cappy¡¯s mushrooms. I decided to make him suffer for his foolishness.¡±

    ¡°We are on our way,¡± Reviled said, she could hear the approval in his voice, ¡°Also, we have decided our next course of action. We are going to bring the wererats into the fold.¡±

    ¡°Is there anything you need of me?¡±

    ¡°I need you to gather any information you can on the Rat King and his sons.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll stop by the guild tomorrow,¡± Meridith said with a dark smile, ¡°I¡¯ll have Gedran outside waiting for you. I don¡¯t want to waste time cleaning up the blood.¡±

 Cursed Prince pt. 1

    Prince Skivret stared at the stone tablet in his hand. He let the tablet fall. He pressed his hands against his red eyes trying to fight back against the headache starting to form.

    ¡°How could this get any worse?¡± he said scratching at his white fur.

    He stared around at his personal tent. He had a few treasures decorating the space which consisted of a few golden candleholders and his throne, a green cushioned high back chair with no legs. Skivret rose from his throne and walked over to the nearby table that had a map of the sewers carved into an old chessboard. The board had roughly carved figurines sitting on it. Skivret knocked over a roughly painted white piece leaving one left.

    A dirty brown wererat in shabby wooden armor came in, ¡°Sire!¡±

    Skivret sighed heavily, ¡°What is it, Nimble?¡± he said.

    ¡°Decker¡¯s monster is here.¡±

    ¡°Do the gods hate me,¡± Skivret said rushing outside.

    Skivret followed the soldier to the makeshift walls surrounding the modest camp. The walls reached all the way to the ceiling with wide gaps for archers. Skivret walked to one of the gaps and saw the monster leading a group of five armored skeletons. A woman in a black dress carrying a large mushroom stood among the skeletons.

    ¡°What do you want, monster?¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°We¡¯ve come to offer help,¡±

    ¡°Let it in,¡± Skivret said.

    The guards gave concerned looks but did as commanded. The guards opened the gate by untying it from the wall and sliding it to the side. The guards pointed their crude spears as the monster walked in.

    Nimble shoved her spear into the monster¡¯s face, ¡°Not another step,¡± she said.

    The monster ran a claw along the spear pushing it aside, ¡°A threat, how adorable,¡± it said. Nimble growled at the machine.

    ¡°You said you¡¯re here to help,¡± Skivret said. His fur bristled under the monster¡¯s contempt.

    ¡°Yes,¡± the monster said pushing past the guards, ¡°We¡¯ve heard about your¡­predicament, and thought we might be able to help.¡±

    ¡°What would you get out of this alliance?¡±

    ¡°Not an alliance. A subjugation,¡± it said.

    Skivret bared his fangs, ¡°You¡¯re mad!¡± he said, ¡°Why should I make such a deal?¡± The monster¡¯s chuckle sent a chill down his spine.

    ¡°Because you¡¯re desperate,¡± it said, ¡°I can take advantage of that.¡±

    ¡°Don listen ta him, Sire!¡± Nimble said, ¡°They still the king.¡±

    The monster¡¯s grinding cackle made everyone¡¯s fur stand up, ¡°Then why hasn¡¯t he stopped the fighting?¡± it said. Silence filled the air. ¡°Then how about a wager?¡±

    Skivret swallowed hard, ¡°Go on,¡±

    ¡°A fight to the death,¡± the monster said, ¡°I fight against as many soldiers as you want, but twenty at a time to keep it fair. If you win, you get the recognition of destroying us.¡±

    ¡°And we become your slaves if you win.¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡±

    Skivret looked around at his camp. The rickety walls, ramshackle tents, and rats wearing patchwork clothes were all that he had left. He had built this camp for the unwanted like him. It was the only home they knew, and he didn¡¯t want his albinism to lead to its destruction.

    ¡°Everyone, gather to the arena!¡± Skivret said, ¡°I accept your challenge, monster.¡±

    The arena consisted of an empty, circular water reservoir about twenty feet wide and eight feet deep. The soldiers strapped on their wooden armor and did their best to sharpen their rusty weapons. The citizens gather around the rim all staring at the mechanical monster standing in the center. Skivret sat down on a wooden stool perched on a raised platform. A second chair was brought for the human woman that accompanied the monster. Skivret motioned to catch Nimble¡¯s attention.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.

    Skivret leaned close to her ear, and smiled when it twitched in embarrassment, ¡°I want you to organize the soldiers,¡± he said, ¡°It¡¯d be best to destroy it in the first wave.¡±

    ¡°I understand, sire,¡± Nimble said, ¡°I¡¯ll join the first wave to make sure that happens.¡±

    Skivret grabbed her wrist, ¡°No, I don¡¯t want you fighting.¡±

    Nimble¡¯s ears dropped, ¡°As ya'' wish,¡± she said.

    Skivret balled his fists as he watched Nimble leave.

    ¡°Is she important to you?¡± the human woman said petting the mushroom.

    ¡°That¡¯s ¡¯s sweet!¡± the mushroom said.

    Skivret stared in disbelief at the talking mushroom. ¡°Y-yes,¡± he said watching the mushroom give him a large smile, ¡°She¡¯s my guard captain and personal bodyguard.¡±

    The woman gave him a sad smile, ¡°Then you should keep her out of the battle,¡± she said.

    A mechanical roar pierced through the buzz of the crowd. Everyone fell silent staring at the monster. It¡¯s lower mouth was open revealing grinding gears and a bladed tongue that lashed out at the air. In its right hand was a jagged short sword that glistened menacing in the torchlight.

    The monster closed its jaw, ¡°Whenever you¡¯re ready, prince,¡± it said. The monster was looking down at him from the pit.

    Skivret stood up with hand arm raised. He pointed to the monster, ¡°First wave!¡± he said.

    The soldiers let out a loud cry and jumped down into the arena, but their cries died down as blood flew. The monster stood before the group of soldiers with a bloody claw and a corpse at its feet with a missing face. The soldiers stared in horror, and the monster took advantage of it. Skivret flinched. The monster tore at the soldiers with claws and sword, and the arena was quickly covered in blood.

    A soldier lost an arm. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯ll grow back,¡± the mushroom said, ¡°Trust me!¡±

    Skivret turned back to see the soldiers trying to trap the monster against the wall with their spears, but it vaulted over them. It tore at the soldiers¡¯ backs coating the walls in their blood. The prince stared in terror as twenty bodies lay on the ground. The monster stared up at him with blood covering its body.

    ¡°N-next¡­w-wave,¡± Skivret said.

    The soldiers stood at the edge of the arena staring down at the horrific scene. No one moved.

    ¡°Are you surrendering?¡± the monster said.

    Skivret stared at the soldiers shaking in fear.

    Nimble jumped into the arena, ¡°I fight ya'',¡± she said.

    ¡°Nimble!¡± Skivret said, ¡°Get out of there.¡±

    ¡°It my duty to fight for you,¡± Nimble said turning to face him, ¡°Let me.¡± Skivret nodded.

    ¡°Excellent,¡± the monster said with a chuckle.

    Nimble charged forward and struck out with her spear. The monster dodged out of the way and broke the spear with its claws. Nimble threw away her broken spear and drew her short sword. Skivret gasped as the monster struck at Nimble, but she scurried out of the way. Nimble used her quickness to strike at the monster¡¯s feet.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Skivret said as Nimble dashed under the monster¡¯s feet and struck its back.

    The monster rolled forward dodging the attack, and Nimble took advantage. She jumped forward with her sword raised high, but the monster quickly turned around and grabbed her by the throat.

    ¡°Impressive skills,¡± it said, ¡°We¡¯ll make use of them.¡± Its jaw slowly opened.

    ¡°No! Stop!¡± Skivret said running to the edge of the arena, ¡°You win,¡± The monster ignored him. Nimble squealed in fear as she struggled in its grasp. ¡°Please don¡¯t kill her!¡± he said, falling to his knees. Time slowed to a crawl.

    ¡°Wait master!¡± The monster stopped and turned towards the stage. The woman stood up next to the kneeling prince, ¡°You should keep her alive.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°She is a skilled warrior,¡± the woman said, ¡°And the prince will need every warrior he can get after losing this many soldiers.¡±

    The monster looked around at the carnage before turning back to Nimble, ¡°A pity,¡± it said closing its jaw and dropping Nimble. It climbed out of the arena, ¡°We accept your surrender. Gather all your clan to be marked.¡± The monster stalked away with his servants.

    Skivret stared at the arena. Blood and flesh soaked the stone, and not a single body was left whole. The heavy, depressing silence deafened him. His brothers¡¯ words haunting him. A curse prince.

    ¡°Sire,¡± a voice drew him away from the devastation. Nimble kneeled beside him, ¡°Forgive me, I failed ya''.¡±

    ¡°No, I was a failure to begin with,¡± Skivret said, ¡°A shame it took all of this to show me.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not true!¡± Nimble said, ¡°You built this place with your own hands. You gave us a home.¡±

    ¡°Not anymore,¡± Skivret said raising to his feet. ¡°Everyone,¡± he said, ¡°You all are to leave this camp. I exile all of you from my clan!¡± The crowd stared at him in fear and sadness.

    ¡°You can¡¯t do that!¡± Nimble said, ¡°Your our prince!¡±

    ¡°I can, and I have.¡± Skivret said walking way.

    The monster and his attendants waited in the center of the camp.

    ¡°Where¡¯s your clan?¡± the monster said.

    Skivret stared into the monster¡¯s eyes, ¡°This is my clan,¡± he said, ¡°Everyone else was exiled.¡±

    The monster chuckled, ¡°Clever,¡± it said grabbing hold of the left side of Skivret¡¯s face, ¡°We can make use of that.¡± Skivret shrieked at the searing pain. He could smell the stench of burning hair and flesh. The monster released his face, but Skivret could still feel the heat.

    Monsta!¡± Skivret turned to see Nimble and the rest of the wererats approached. ¡°We wish to join you.¡±

    ¡°Are you all mad!¡± Skivret said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you run?¡±

    Nimble gave him a soft smile, ¡°You¡¯re our prince, no matta what,¡± she said walking towards the monster. ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± she said pointing to the left side of her face.

    The monster looked around. ¡°We are impressed,¡± it said, ¡°Loyalty is such a rare thing,¡± it gently reached towards Nimble¡¯s face and she whimpered in pain. ¡°We are Reviled Legion, and we welcome you.¡±

 Cursed Prince pt. 2

    A rat scurried across the stone. Skivret drew his long dagger in surprise.

    Nimble chuckled at him, ¡°Don worry sire, I protect you,¡± she said.

    ¡°It¡¯s been years since my last patrol,¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°You shoulda'' stayed in the camp,¡± Nimble said taking the lead, ¡°It¡¯s hard to protect you out here by m¡¯self.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re short on soldiers,¡± Skivret said keeping his eyes out, ¡°Everyone needs to pull their weight now.¡±

    ¡°Then send someone else,¡± Nimble said checking a branching tunnel, ¡°You have more important things to do, like dealing with that monster. Where¡¯d it go anyway?¡±

    ¡°It said it had to prepare,¡± Skivret said, ¡°but the last week has been peaceful, so I hope it stays gone.¡±

    Nimble continued to lead. Her short spear held tightly in her right hand and her left hovering close to her dagger. Her footsteps were quiet against the stone walkway as she snuck around trying to detect any threats. It made their patrol longer than usual, but Skivret didn¡¯t mind. It was good to get out of the camp every now and then.

    ¡°Sire!¡± Skivret snapped out of his daydreaming. Nimble stared at a sigil carved into the wall, a diamond overlapped with a spiral. ¡°Looks like your brothers are moving into your territory.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not surprised,¡± he said looking down the tunnels, ¡°We better head back.¡±

    Nimble¡¯s ears twitched, ¡°Someone¡¯s comin,''¡± she said staring down the tunnel in the direction they were heading.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Skivret said going back the way they came.

    Skivret took the lead trying to keep his pace quick and quiet. The sewers were a maze with intersecting tunnels and water reservoirs which is why directions to each camp were marked into the walls, except for his camp. His camp was able to stay hidden because there were no markers, but it meant wandering through the tunnels trying to find it. He was already turned around.

    The tunnel ended into an intersecting tunnel. Skivret took the tunnel to the right and ran into another patrol. The soldiers wore padded jackets under their wooden armor and carried slightly rusted swords. The symbol they saw on the wall was stitched on the soldiers¡¯ sleeves.

    ¡°The C¨CCursed Prince!¡± the soldiers said, pointing at them.

    Nimble ran forward stabbing at the leader with her spear. ¡°Run sire!¡± she said, ¡°I keep them off ya''.¡± One soldier tried to rush past her. ¡°Go, now!¡±

    Skivret turned, dropping to all fours and ran down the tunnel. He could hear the fight clashing behind him. Skivret¡¯s heart burned in his chest as he gasped for air. The stone walkways cut into his paws, but he didn¡¯t stop. The sounds of fighting died.

    Skivret stood up and leaned against the wall. ¡°Nimble,¡± he said clutching his chest.

    Skivret continued through the maze of tunnels. Slowly, he started to recognize his surroundings and the walls to his camp appeared before him.

    Skivret pounded on the walls, ¡°Open up!¡±

    The wall split and two guards stared at him, ¡°Sire, what¡¯s wrong?¡± they said looking at him, ¡°Where¡¯s Nimble!¡±

    ¡°We were attacked,¡± Skivret said pushing past them, ¡°We ran into soldiers serving my brother. Nimble stayed so I could escape. We need to save her!¡±

    ¡°Do you know where they took her?¡± a crowd started to gather.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Skivret said staring at his feet, ¡°They took her to camp Amvret.¡±

    The crowd gasped. ¡°How do you expect us to save her?¡± a soldier asked.

    Skivret looked at everyone, and his stomach sank. It would be impossible to save Nimble, he didn¡¯t have the forces.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ask the monster,¡± Skivret said looking at them.

    ¡°Ask us for what?¡± Reviled stepped through the opening in the wall. Five skeletons followed behind carrying two large crates.

    Skivret pushed passed the crowd and fell to the ground, ¡°I need your help, master Reviled,¡±

    ¡°Must be important for you to beg after calling us a monster,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle.

    ¡°I need your help saving Nimble,¡±

    ¡°Why should we?¡± Reviled said, ¡°How does it benefit us?¡±

    ¡°She is the strongest fighter in the camp,¡± Skivret said, ¡°No other can compare.¡±

    ¡°So, you are all worthless to us?¡±

    A chill ran down Skivret¡¯s spine, ¡°No, we¡¯re not!¡±

    ¡°Then prove it,¡±

    ¡°I-I,¡± Skivret¡¯s throat tightened. Reviled growled, and threw Skivret.

    ¡°How long are you going to be weak!¡± Reviled said brandishing its claws, ¡°Your people are dying, and you just lay there. You are no better than a corpse,¡± the red eyes turned to the skeletons, ¡°Correction, we have more use for a corpse.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°How can I become strong?¡±

    ¡°You can start by getting up,¡± Reviled said stepping past him, ¡°and follow us.¡±

    Skivret scurried to his feet and rushed to follow. The silence was heavy as they left the camp. Skivret dropped to all fours to keep up with Reviled¡¯s long stride. Reviled led the prince to an empty reservoir, but gurgling moans rose from the shifting shadows. Skivret squeaked at the sight of the zombies.

    ¡°So many,¡±

    ¡°Twenty-five to be exact,¡± Reviled said with pride, ¡°We spent the last few weeks experimenting, and now we can control up to thirty undead.¡±

    ¡°But Meridith said you could control only six,¡± Skivret stared in horror.

    Reviled said with a growling chuckle, ¡°She told you that? Yes, at one point we could control only six undead, but that was due to our inefficient processes,¡± It started walking around the pit, ¡°We realized it after subjugating your clan. We were wasting the potential of the souls we devoured.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Skivret said keeping as far away from the pit as possible.

    ¡°A city is not made with a single building,¡± Reviled said reaching the water gate lever, ¡°We began dividing the fifty souls we devoured into different branches from our core. This greatly increased our efficiency.¡±

    Skivret swallowed, ¡°Meaning you¡¯re more deadly now,¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Reviled said pulling on the chain and flooding the reservoir, ¡°If you want to get stronger then you must evolve, but can you?¡± It turned to him with a chuckle.

    Skivret looked into the machine¡¯s red eyes. ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°Then let us go save Nimble,¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled stared at the wooden walls of camp Amvret. Rusted swords and broken shields were built into the wall for better defenses. Reviled was impressed with this camp.

    ¡°How are we going to save Nimble?¡± Skivret said. The prince hugged the wall while eyeing the bubbling water of the canal wearily.

    ¡°We will go in first to cause a distraction,¡± Reviled said, ¡°You can come in afterwards to save her.¡±

    ¡°How am I going to find her!¡±

    Reviled summoned a rat from the darkness, ¡°Follow our familiar,¡± it said, ¡°Keep your eyes open. You¡¯ll know when to enter.¡± It dropped into the water. The dark sewage obscured Reviled¡¯s vision, but it could make out the silhouettes of the zombies waiting for commands.

    Reviled focused on the souls within its core. The lights representing the souls were divided into three clusters each of different sizes. It focused its attention on the smallest cluster, each soul in this cluster belonged to magic casters. At the heart of this cluster was a single soul, the creator, with four other souls connected to it. The four outer souls were connected to its neighbors for stability and this gave the cluster a pyramidal shape.

    How foolish we were to not organize the souls. It ushered commands to the zombies to follow it into the camp. This magic sub-core makes casting more efficient. We can cast multiple spells in a row with little effort. Reviled stopped and looked up. The lights from the camp lit the sewage floating on top of the water. Reviled shot out of the water. It spun around and spotted a group of soldiers standing next to the wall. Energy flooded into Reviled¡¯s core, and it launched a fireball. The soldiers screams were drowned out by the explosion, and a chunk of the wall blew away. Reviled landed in front of another group of soldiers. It pointed at the group and a bolt of lightning shot out arcing between them. The soldiers fell to the ground dead.

    The zombies crawled out of the canal and lumbered towards the bodies. Alarms rang throughout the camp. Soldiers rushed out of their tents wearing their wooden armor and wielding their makeshift weapons. Several squealed in terror as they watched the zombies feed on the dead.

    ¡°The monster¡¯s attacking!¡± the soldiers cried.

    One soldier drew its bow. The arrow bounced off Reviled¡¯s armor, and the soldier nocked another arrow. Reviled moved its attention from the magic core to the second largest core. This core contained fifteen souls all connected to Laegyn¡¯s soul in the center. The soldier shot the arrow but Reviled dodged out of the way. Reviled rushed forward and killed the archer with its claws.

    Reviled dashed through the tents slashing each soldier. Amazing. We didn¡¯t expect the martial core to enhance our abilities to this level. Reviled jumped over a group of soldiers hiding behind their shields and spears and cut open their necks. If only we could link the magic and martial cores together.

    ¡°Monster,¡± a rat knight called out, ¡°I¡¯ll kill you here and now.¡± It started chanting and its mace started to glow with magical energy.

    ¡°That¡¯s cute, paladin,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle. Of course. Reviled dived into the martial core until it found the right soul. It chuckled with delight. We underestimated you, Jal. Reviled used Jal¡¯s soul to link the martial and magic cores together. Energy flooded throughout Reviled¡¯s systems the moment the link was established.

    The rat paladin jumped over the canal and struck out with his mace. Reviled drew on its magic causing flames to engulf its claws. Reviled grabbed the paladin¡¯s arm. The paladin screamed in pain dropping his mace. Reviled chuckled at the paladin¡¯s pain and shoved its left claws into his gut. Reviled¡¯s claws tore through flesh and bone with ease, and it threw the corpse into a nearby tent. The renewed sense of power brought out a grinding shriek. Reviled looked around the burning camp.

    This is the perfect hunting ground.

    <hr>

    Skivret dashed between the burning tents trying to keep up with Reviled¡¯s familiar. Camp Amvret is in complete disarray. Zombies feasted upon the dead and the living. A shriek rang through the camp followed by a fiery explosion deeper in the camp. The rat stopped in front of a dirty, torn tent.

    Skivret pushed into the tent and found Nimble bound at the back of the tent. Nimble looked awful. Dried blood caked the fur around her snout, and her clothes were cut showing the wounds she acquired during battle. Skivret rushed over to her.

    ¡°W-why are¡­ya'' here?¡± Nimble said.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to save you,¡± Skivret said pulling her close and drawing his knife. His eyes widened, ¡°Nimble¡­your t-tail.¡± Skivret stared at the bloodied stump.

    ¡°Yah, they cut it off,¡± Nimble said.

    ¡°Damn monster!¡± a voice came from outside, ¡°Why is it attacking?¡± The camp commander stepped into the tent and stared at them in shock. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    Skivret rushed forward and tackled the commander to the ground. Skivret sat on top of the commander trying to stab him with the knife in his left hand, but the commander stopped him. The commander reached out and raked his claws deep into the right side of Skivret¡¯s face. Skivret anger overcame the pain. Skivret jerked his head to the left, his vision blurring in his right eye, and he bit into the commander¡¯s left arm, tearing out a chunk of flesh. The commander screamed and the strength in his left arm died. The knife plunged into the commander¡¯s neck.

    Skivret stabbed into the commander¡¯s face over and over. Skivret stared into bloody mess that remained. He slowly rose from the corpse. Breathing hard, Skivret walked over to Nimble and started cutting at her bonds.

    Nimble placed a hand onto Skivret¡¯s face, ¡°Why?¡±

    Skivret grabbed her hand, ¡°I¡¯d rather lose an eye than you,¡± Nimble stared at him with glistening eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here.¡± He said helping Nimble to her feet. They stepped out of the tent and stared at the destroyed camp in horror.

    Reviled stood among the destruction with blood dripping from its claws and face. It approached the lone tent.

    ¡°Good, still alive,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Master Reviled,¡± Skivret said, ¡°I think I understand what you mean about evolving.¡±

    ¡°Do you?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Skivret said looking at Nimble, ¡°I¡¯ve been stagnant, sitting around letting my brothers walk all over me. No more!¡±

    ¡°What are you going to do?¡±

    ¡°The throne is mine,¡± Skivret said, ¡°And no one is going to stop me.¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°Excellent goal. We look forward to seeing your progress.¡±

 Baron

    Bartholomew Decker sat at his desk staring at the reports littering his desk. He pressed his palms against his eyes and pulled on his hair. A headache throbbed behind his eyes.

    ¡°B-boss.¡±

    Decker peeked through his fingers, ¡°What?¡± he said with a growl.

    A worker stood in front of him, his hat crushed in his hands, ¡°We a¡­lost anotha¡­d-delivery.¡±

    Decker sat up taking a deep breath, ¡°Leave,¡± The worker placed his hat onto his head and quickly left. Decker stared at the closed door then slammed his fists onto his desk. ¡°Dammit!¡± The rats were already thorns in my side, and now I must deal with this damned machine.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt yourself old man,¡± Decker looked up to the young man striding into the room. The young man combed his fingers through his black hair, and his gray eyes glistened with cunning. It was like looking at his younger self.

    ¡°I¡¯m not in the mood boy,¡±

    ¡°I told you not to trust that quack, Pops¡± the young man said dropping onto the couch and kicking his feet up onto a table. ¡°But no, you decided to fund his ¡®little project.¡¯¡±

    ¡°Enough Baron!¡± Decker sighed heavily, ¡°I have to find someway to clean up this mess.¡±

    ¡°Let me handle it pops,¡± Baron said.

    ¡°You?¡± Decker said with a chuckle, ¡°And how exactly will you ¡®handle it?¡¯¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll need that spell book first,¡±

    ¡°No, the Tome of Elithis stays where it is!¡± Decker said slapping the desk, ¡°Now leave, I have business to take care of.¡±

    Baron sighed getting up, ¡°Fine old man, I¡¯ll leave you to your ¡®business,¡¯¡± he said leaving the room. Baron smirked at the sound of his father¡¯s cursing through the door.

    ¡°Master Baron,¡± a woman stood by the door. She wore a well-pressed dress with a high collar. Her dark brown hair pulled into a braided bun. ¡°Please don¡¯t antagonize your father. These last few months have been stressful for him.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s his own fault Taela,¡± Baron said, ¡°Now he¡¯s suffering the consequences of his choices.¡± Taela looked disappointed, ¡°Fine, you win.¡±

    Taela gave a small smirk, ¡°Thank you,¡±

    ¡°Still, we need to do something about this,¡± Baron said starting to walk down the hall, ¡°Have a carriage brought up front, will you.¡±

    ¡°And where are you going?¡±

    ¡°Castle Jericho,¡± Baron said with a sly smile, ¡°I want to do some research.¡±

    <hr>

    It was midday by the time Baron stepped out of the carriage and stared up at Castle Jericho. Castle Jericho stood at the heart of the city. It stood as a large keep with four smaller wings on each adjoining side with five connected towers. Two towers stood on either side of the entrance hall. The outside gave an impression of a fortress designed purely for functionality, but the inside revealed the castle¡¯s true splendor. Silk tapestries, luxurious rugs, and furniture made from the finest wood decorated the inside. Castle Jericho blended extravagance and functionality quite well.

    An attendant approached Baron and Taela. ¡°May I be of service to you?¡± he said.

    ¡°We¡¯d like to see the archives,¡±

    ¡°Right this way,¡± The attendant bowed. He led them through the halls, up a flight of stairs, and stopped in front of a set of double doors. ¡°I¡¯ll wait here for you when you¡¯re done.¡±

    Baron stepped into the archives. Its towering bookshelves ushered him to a standing desk in the center of the room. The desk stood unmanned with an oil lamp and a bell sitting on it. Baron rang the bell.

    ¡°O-one moment,¡± a young woman stepped out from one of the aisles. She fussed with her dress and braided pigtails. ¡°H-how may I h-help you?¡± she said pushing up her glasses.

    Baron leaned over the desk, ¡°I¡¯m looking to get a copy on the records,¡± he said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m wanting to get a list of the victims from these brutal murders that have happened lately.¡±

    ¡°W-why?¡±

    Baron gave a shy smile, ¡°My father, Bartholomew Decker, and I heard about these terrible murders,¡± he said rubbing his neck, ¡°We hate seeing our community suffer, and¡­since we are prospering, we¡¯re wanting to provide charity to the victim¡¯s families. Times must be hard for them.¡±

    The Librarian smiled warmly, ¡°How sweet. G-give me a few minutes,¡±

    ¡°To think the gods have blessed me by having a kind, and beautiful woman help me with this endeavor,¡± Baron said taking her hand in his.

    Her face turned deep red, and she pulled away, disappearing into the aisles. After a few minutes, the Librarian returned with her arms full of papers.

    ¡°I¡¯ll c-copy these names for you,¡± she said.

    ¡°Take your time,¡± Baron said letting his eyes wander. Baron chuckled silently as he watched the Librarian stick out her tongue as she worked. He found her to be cute, in a shy, na?ve way.

    ¡°There was a survivor,¡± she said.

    ¡°Oh?¡±

    ¡°Yes, a woman named Meridith,¡± she said, ¡°Looks like she works at the Black Horn adventurers guild.¡± She set down the quill and passed the paper, ¡°Here you are mister Decker. I hope these people appreciate your kindness.¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    ¡°Please, call me Baron,¡± he said, ¡°Would you like to join me for dinner tomorrow? As thanks for your help.¡±

    ¡°I-I¡¯d love to.¡± The Librarian said. She scribbled on a note and passed it to him.

    Baron took the papers, ¡°Then I¡¯ll see you tomorrow, my lady,¡± he said with a bow. He stepped out of the archives and handed the list to Taela, ¡°See to it that the victims¡¯ families are paid fifteen gold coins,¡± he said following the attendant, ¡°Hopefully that much money will keep them quiet.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡±

    They stepped out of the castle with the sun sitting high in the sky. Baron¡¯s carriage pulled up to the entrance.

    ¡°Take me to the Black Horn guild,¡±

    <hr>

    The adventurers raucous cries filled the guild hall. Baron smirked at the novices toasting their pints and bragging about their exploits.

    ¡°How may I help you?¡± an attendant smiled at Baron.

    ¡°I would like to speak with master Aberny,¡± Baron said.

    ¡°And who should I say is calling?¡±

    ¡°Baron Decker,¡± He said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let him know right away,¡± she said, ¡°Please wait here a moment.¡±

    Baron stood off to the side and watched the adventurers. The door opened and three experienced adventurers walked into the hall. The leader, a tall, muscular man wearing full plate mail with an emblem of a sword and scale on a light green scapular, scratched as his honey blond, scraggy beard and ran hand through his unkempt hair. Wrinkles formed around his sharp green eyes. A paladin of Touldan.

    Baron gave the man no other thought as his eyes lingered on the second person. The woman stood out amongst the group with her armor, wild gold eyes, and dark skin. The worn cloth wrapped around her chest and leather skirt couldn¡¯t be called armor, but she did wear a metal gauntlet and pauldron on her right arm. She also wore metal greaves. Her purple-black hair was pulled back into a high ponytail and her ears were pierced with multiple earrings. Tribal tattoos decorated her exposed skin that shifted between the colors blue, green, violet, and pink. Not everyday you see a vygaern.

    It took effort but Baron turned to the last member. The last man was a novice. His worn, plain brigandine armor needed repair. He wore a black gauntlet with a diamond engraved into the back of the hand on his left arm. His wild, flaming orange hair nearly covered his pale blue eyes that held a youthful gleam.

    ¡°Master Solomon, and mistress Schybara, welcome back,¡± an attendant called out, ¡°I¡¯m glad you made it back from the war.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± the paladin said, ¡°We¡¯d like to see master Aberny.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll let him know you¡¯re here.¡±

    Baron moved to approach the group, but a novice pushed past him. The young man wrapped an arm around Schybara¡¯s shoulder, ¡°You¡¯re cute, would you like to join my group for a job?¡± he said with a smile.

    Schybara gave the novice a cold smile then slammed his face into the counter. ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡± she said as the young adventurer tried to stop the blood spilling from his nose.

    Solomon knelt and touched the adventurer¡¯s head as the boy was coughing up blood. White light radiated from the paladin¡¯s hand, and the blood stopped.

    ¡°Feel better?¡± Solomon said.

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Solomon grabbed the adventurer¡¯s and pulled his head back, ¡°Don¡¯t touch a man¡¯s wife without his consent.¡± The adventurer swallowed and ran off once Solomon released him.

    Baron chuckled, ¡°Good to see you¡¯re still around, master Solomon,¡± he said holding out his hand.

    ¡°It¡¯ll take more than a few undead to kill me,¡± Solomon shook his hand, ¡°But I don¡¯t think we¡¯ve met.¡±

    ¡°Baron Decker at your service,¡± he said holding out a hand to Schybara, ¡°May I?¡± Solomon nodded and Baron took her left hand, kissing her knuckles, ¡°My lady, the tales of your beauty don¡¯t do you justice.¡±

    ¡°Cute,¡± Schybara said with a smirk, ¡°But you should save your flattery for some doe-eyed maid.¡±

    ¡°You see right through me,¡± Baron said turning to the third person, ¡°And you are?¡±

    ¡°This is Halligan, my apprentice,¡± Solomon said.

    ¡°A pleasure,¡± Halligan said taking Baron¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Likewise. Is that a trophy from the war?¡± Baron said pointing to the gauntlet.

    ¡°Yessir, took it off a lich-knight,¡± Halligan said, ¡°Allows someone as illiterate as me to cast spells.¡±

    ¡°Master Aberny will see you know master Solomon.¡± An attendant approached them.

    ¡°May I join you?¡± Baron stepped up, ¡°I have some information you both need to know.¡± Solomon nodded.

    Baron fell in step with Halligan as they were led up the Aberny¡¯s office. As they stepped inside the office Aberny stood and shook Solomon¡¯s and Schybara¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Welcome back, you two,¡± Aberny said, ¡°And¡­mister Decker?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to intrude,¡±

    ¡°It must be important,¡± he said, ¡°But I¡¯d like to get an update on the war.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not going well,¡± Solomon said leaning against the fireplace, ¡°We¡¯re barely holding our own against the Wight King. Our victories are costly, and our losses makes his forces stronger.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what happens when you fight the undead,¡± Schybara chuckled.

    ¡°The kingdoms waited too long to deal with the issue and now we¡¯re paying the price,¡± Aberny said with a heavy sigh, ¡°And what about you, mister Decker?¡±

    ¡°First, I¡¯d like to apologize for my father,¡± Baron said taking a seat, ¡°He shouldn¡¯t have canceled the job. I¡¯ll have five casks of ale brought in as an apology.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s generous, but I hope there¡¯s more than free booze.¡±

    ¡°There is,¡± Baron said. After a deep breath, ¡°I¡¯ve been hearing rumors from my men that the Tome of Elithis is in the city.¡±

    Silence.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Schybara said, ¡°The last thing I want to hear is a second necronomicon showing up.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± Solomon said scratching his beard, ¡°We already have one avatar of the Dead Gods to deal with, thanks to the Treaties of Bellidrex. A second avatar¡­I don¡¯t want to imagine it.¡±

    Aberny walked over to the liquor cabinet behind his desk, ¡°How have you come by these rumors?¡± he said, pouring himself a drink.

    ¡°I own the biggest brewery in the city,¡± Baron said with a weary smile, ¡°I supply every tavern and inn in the city, and there is no better place for gossip than those. And I fear there might be some truth to this rumor, since there¡¯s a serial killer running about.¡±

    ¡°Laegyn¡¯s been murdered, and Gedran¡¯s missing. Could this get any worse?¡± Aberny said down the drink.

    ¡°What?¡± Schybara said, staring at Aberny in horror.

    ¡°Laegyn died more than two months ago, and Gedran¡­we haven¡¯t seen him in over three weeks. I fear for the worst.¡±

    ¡°A pity, we could have used them,¡± Solomon said pushing off the wall, ¡°We should start investigating these rumors immediately, just to be safe.¡± Aberny nodded and the adventurers rushed out of the room.

    ¡°Is there something else?¡± Aberny said, taking a seat.

    ¡°I was hoping you could give me Meridith¡¯s address?¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°I feel¡­responsible for her suffering,¡± Baron said looking to the ground, ¡°Had I taken the rumors seriously, she might not have witnessed Laegyn¡¯s murder. So, I¡¯d like to apologize and take responsibility.¡±

    Aberny grunted and pulled out a paper from his desk. He scribbled the on the note, ¡°Give her my best regards, will you. I regret firing her.¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± Baron said with a smile and left the room. He quickly walked through the guild and stepped into his carriage where Taela sat patiently. ¡°One more stop.¡±

    ¡°And that would be?¡± Taela said.

    ¡°A bookshop.¡±

    <hr>

    It was late. The moonlight shone through the glass windows of Bartholomew¡¯s office helping to light the room with the single lamp on the desk. Bartholomew rubbed his temple to ease the migraine that¡¯s plagued him the entire day. A knock came from the door.

    ¡°What!¡± He said, his voice hoarse from cursing all day.

    Baron stepped into the room with a smug smile, ¡°You¡¯re going to work yourself to death, pops.¡±

    ¡°What do you want now, boy?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to thank you for letting me borrow this,¡± he said placing a book on the desk. The ivory queen ant motif gleamed in the light.

    Bartholomew slammed his hands on the desk, ¡°How did you¡­wait?¡± he picked up the book, ¡°This is fake.¡±

    ¡°Part of the plan,¡± Baron said, ¡°I¡¯d be willing to tell you over a pint,¡± he chuckled, ¡°Thanks for buying ten casks by the way.¡±

    Bartholomew laughed, ¡°You¡¯re too smart for your own good, son,¡±

    ¡°And you¡¯re too stubborn, pops.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Bartholomew said raising from his chair, ¡°you can tell me your plan over a pint of that piss you call booze.¡±

 Ambush

    Meridith sat at the bar ignoring all the eyes that were on her. It had taken awhile, but she started feeling comfortable in the black dress Reviled got for her. A group of young men, boys really, were whispering a few feet away gesturing towards her. Meridith gave them the sweetest smile, and all of them turned a deep red. How adorable. In the last month, she had taken Reviled¡¯s words to heart. It was hard, but Meridith learned to use her beauty as a tool, and the vial containing a concentrated solution from Cappy¡¯s mushroom hidden in her sleeve helped greatly. Both were useful in luring away Decker¡¯s men.

    ¡°I never expected to see such beauty in this run-down pit,¡± Meridith turned to her right. A man leaned against the bar. His piercing gray eyes slowly scoured her body, and his groomed black hair shined in the light. Meridith felt like she¡¯d seen this man before.

    ¡°I was curious about this place,¡± she said, ¡°So I¡¯d thought I take a peek.¡±

    He chuckled, ¡°You haven¡¯t mastered lying quite yet Meridith,¡± he said, ¡°You¡¯ve been coming here for a month.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve been stalking me?¡±

    ¡°I prefer¡­surveying,¡± he said, ¡°I wanted to make sure it¡¯s safe before approaching you.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°I have a message for your friend,¡± he said with a smirk, ¡°The machine.¡¯

    Meridith glared, ¡°Who are you?¡±

    ¡°Baron Decker, at your service.¡±

    ¡°Decker¡¯s son. I didn¡¯t realize you knew?¡± she said eyeing her surroundings.

    Baron laughed. ¡°I told my father that it was a mistake,¡± he said, ¡°The old fool didn¡¯t listen, and now here we both are.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your message?¡±

    ¡°I have the book,¡± he whispered into her ear, ¡°If it leaves the city then I¡¯ll gladly hand it over. You can find it in the warehouse district, building thirteen in the chest with a red X.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll pass the message.¡± She said standing up.

    ¡°Just so you know,¡± Baron said, ¡°Quite a few heroes have returned from the war. If you don¡¯t act fast one of them might find it.¡± He gave Meridith a warm smile.

    Meridith quickly left the tavern. She quickly ducked through the alley and into the sewer gate.

    ¡°Rat,¡± Meridith called out into the darkness. The shadows shifted around her feet and formed into a rat. ¡°Take me to Reviled,¡± she said, and she followed the rat into the sewers.

    The noxious smells of the sewers struck Meridith¡¯s nose, and she pulled out piece of charcoal from her belt pouch and stuffed it into a handkerchief that she wrapped around her face. It helped kill a little of the fumes, but she eventually got used to the smell.

    The rat led her through the mazelike sewers. It was difficult to tell when she entered Skivret¡¯s territory, but she crossed a bridge and turned a corner and came to a welcoming sight. A skeleton dressed in half-mail armor with leather greaves and gauntlets. It stood watch with an obsidian spear. A hole sat in the skeleton¡¯s forehead.

    Meridith smirked at the solitary soldier, ¡°I¡¯m glad Reviled found a purpose for your corpse Gedran,¡± she said patting the undead on its shoulder. Meridith continued to follow the rat until she came to the walls of the camp. She knocked twice then thrice on the wall, and it opened to her. ¡°Thank you Blegt,¡± she said to the spotted wererat standing guard.

    ¡°M¡¯pleasura, lady Meridith,¡± Blegt said shyly scratching at his ear, ¡°Master Reviled and the Prince are at the pit training.¡±

    Meridith smiled at the rat and walked through the camp to the pit. Many wererats gathered around the pit watching the fight. On the wooden platform sat Nimble, still wounded, and Cappy stood next to her going through fighting stances, punching the air. Meridith chuckled at the little mushroom.

    ¡°How are you feeling Nimble?¡± Meridith said sitting next to her.

    ¡°Antsy,¡± she said scratching at the stump of her tail, ¡°I can¡¯t stand sitting on m¡¯ass all day.¡±

    ¡°Just a few more days,¡± she said petting Nimble behind the ears, ¡°Soon you¡¯ll be in there training too,¡± She turned to watch Reviled and Skivret fight, ¡°How is their training going?¡±

    Reviled stood in the center of the pit with Skivret running around him. Skivret would dash towards Reviled¡¯s feet striking at them with his short sword but Reviled dodged at the last minute. Reviled grabbed Skivret by the collar and threw him across the pit.

    ¡°Sire¡¯s improved,¡± Nimble said, ¡°He could handle the average guard in small groups, but he¡¯s still gotta'' ways from bein'' skilled.¡±

    Meridith nodded as her focus shifted to Cappy. The mushroom made strange noises as she punched and kicked the air.

    ¡°Are you training too, Capcap?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Cappy said, ¡°I¡¯m training my body to be a deadly weapon,¡± she groaned loudly and punched at the air and a bolt of lightning shot from her fist hitting a nearby wererat. The rat shrieked in pain rubbing it hindquarters. ¡°See, deadly weapons.¡± Meridith chuckled at the little mushroom staring in awe at her own hands.

    Meridith turned to the fighters. ¡°Master Reviled,¡± she called out, ¡°I have important information for you.¡±

    ¡°One moment,¡± Reviled said holding the struggling prince. It tossed the rat out of the pit and jumped out after him in a single leap. ¡°Continue your practice Skivret,¡± Reviled said looking down on the rat, ¡°Once you¡¯ve mastered your footwork and form then we¡¯ll work on more advanced techniques.¡± It moved away from the crowds and Meridith followed behind. ¡°Speak, Meridith.¡±

    ¡°Baron Decker approached me tonight,¡± she said, ¡°He wanted me to pass on a message.¡±

    Reviled stopped and turned to stare into her face. ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯ll leave the city then he¡¯ll give you the Tome of Elithis,¡± Meridith said trying to keep her breathing steady, ¡°It¡¯s stored in a chest in warehouse thirteen.¡±

    ¡°Obviously a trap,¡± Reviled said. Its red eyes dimmed behind the visor, ¡°We don¡¯t have many memories of Baron. Too many unknowns.¡± It released a deep growl, ¡°We don¡¯t like this.¡±

    ¡°He mentioned that there are heroes from the war in the city,¡± Meridith said rubbing her chin, ¡°He said that one of them might find it.¡±

    ¡°Damn,¡± the sound of grinding gears came from its jaw, ¡°We can¡¯t allow the tome to leave the city. No matter the risk.¡± It turned to Meridith, ¡°Meet us in the warehouse district tomorrow night.¡±

    ¡°Of course, master,¡± she said.

    <hr>

    Reviled sat in the dark of an alley. Throughout the day, it had familiars scoping out the warehouse for suspicious activity. It found none. Reviled sent a rat into the warehouse searching for necrotic magic and it found feint traces coming from a single chest. There¡¯s a possibility that the tome is in there. Reviled¡¯s attention was drawn to the ground. Cappy peaked behind its leg humming off tune.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°Sss, bein'' stealthy,¡± Cappy said.

    Reviled growled in annoyance, but it turned its attention to the single person striding towards them in the shadows of the buildings. Meridith stepped into the shadows next to it.

    ¡°Have you found anything?¡± Meridith said, peaking at the warehouse.

    ¡°There¡¯s necrotic magic coming from within the warehouse,¡± Reviled said, ¡°But we can¡¯t confirm if it¡¯s the tome.¡± It turned to her, ¡°We¡¯ll go check it out. You two stay out here.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡± Meridith said picking up Cappy, who gave a clumsy salute.

    Reviled stared at the shadows cast over the warehouse¡¯s doorway. Energy surged through the magic core as it drew on the arcane. Hollow step. Magic expelled from the core and Reviled teleported from the alleyway to the warehouse. A lock hung on the door. Reviled tore off the lock and pushed into the warehouse.

    Reviled followed the traces of necrotic magic to a chest with a red X tucked into the corner. The lock on this chest fared no better than the one on the door. The chest was filled with random trinkets, but it was the leather pouch that drew its attention. A leather-bound book with an ivory queen ant motif on the cover was the only thing in the pouch. Reviled¡¯s gears snapped in amusement.

    The door creaked drawing Reviled out of its thoughts, and it snuck through the crates to get to the second floor. Reviled watched as three people entered, lighting the torches on the first floor. Two armored men and a half-naked woman. Jal¡¯s soul sparked in recognition of his fellow paladin of Touldan. Laegyn and Gedran also recognized the group from the war, but they couldn¡¯t name the younger man. Solomon and Schybara, not good. Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    The group gathered in the center of the floor, all turned together in conversation. Their hushed words didn¡¯t reach the second floor, but the young man shifted anxiously its general location.

    The young man held his hand out to the second floor, ¡°Arcane blast!¡±

    Reviled jumped, barely avoiding the blast of magical energy that tore through the second floor. Reviled landed a few feet from the group.

    ¡°By the Virtues,¡± Schybara said in a hushed tone holding up her large, ovular shield in her left hand. In her right hand was a battle-axe with a thick blade on one end and a hammerhead on the other. ¡°What is that?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t know, but keep your guard up,¡± Solomon said drawing his halberd.

    Reviled held out its hand and drew on its magic. Summon sword. Shadows coalesced int a jagged sword. The book fell to the floor.

    ¡°It can use magic,¡± Solomon said stepping to the front.

    Schybara¡¯s tattoos turned green, and a magical aura of the same color enveloped her. ¡°Keep your eyes open kid. Strike when you have an opening.¡± She charged forward with unnatural speed. She spun her axe in her hand and struck with the hammer.

    Reviled flinched at her speed, and quickly ducked under her attack, but the scraping of metal on metal sounded from its back. Reviled thrusted its sword at her, but she blocked with her shield. Schybara¡¯s aura shifted from green to blue and she slammed the shield into Reviled sending him flying.

    A flash of steel caught Reviled¡¯s attention, and it barely dodged the thrust from Solomon¡¯s halberd. Reviled deflected several more thrusts. Solomon swung his halberd but Reviled blocked with it its sword. Reviled drew necrotic magic into its left claw and slashed at Solomon¡¯s face, but Schybara snuck in. Black claw marks scarred her shield. Trapped, Schybara struck at Reviled.

    ¡°Hollow step!¡± Reviled teleported behind them ready to strike.

    ¡°Sun flare!¡±

    A bolt of angry red flames shot towards Reviled but it jumped out of the way, and it blasted a gaping hole in the wall. The young warrior stood to the side. His left gauntlet glowed red. Reviled dashed towards him and attacked with quick thrusts. The young man blocked the first two strikes, but the third got through striking his arm. The man grunted in pain and retreated. Reviled took advantage and shot a bolt a lightning at him.

    A flash of green rushed past. Schybara pushed the young man out of the way and took the brunt of the blast. Schybara screamed and flew into a pile of crates.

    ¡°Lady Schybara!¡± the man said rushing to her.

    Reviled thrusted his sword towards the man, but Solomon widely swung his halberd forcing it back.

    ¡°Focus boy!¡± Solomon said, ¡°Don¡¯t show your back to the enemy.¡±

    Schybara rose to her feet as blood seeped from multiple cuts. Her tattoos and aura changed to pink, and her wounds quickly healed. Her aura shifted back to blue, and she stepped past Solomon engaging Reviled. Reviled and Schybara traded strikes. Its strikes clashing against her shield, and her attacks striking only air.

    Golden light drew Reviled¡¯s attention. Solomon stood off to the side drawing holy magic to his off hand. Reviled stepped back with a growl, but something latched onto its left arm.

    ¡°You¡¯re not going anywhere!¡± Schybara said, tightening her grip. She struck out with her axe which Reviled caught in its left hand. ¡°Now, Sol!¡±

    Solomon held the magic bolt like a javelin, ¡°Divine bolt!¡± he said throwing the spear of magic.

    The bolt slammed into Reviled¡¯s torso. Holy magic surged through its body, and it released a terrible cry. Pain wasn¡¯t something Reviled was used to. When it devoured a soul, traces of the sensation remained, but never like this. The holy magic invaded Reviled¡¯s core, striking at the souls within, and when it faded, five souls disappeared. One from the martial and magic cores, and three from the main core. Rage was another feeling Reviled wasn¡¯t used to, but it felt it now.

    Reviled howled and opened it mouth. ¡°How dare you,¡± it said, ¡°You destroyed members of our legion. Gone, never to return.¡± It turned to Solomon, ¡°You¡¯ll be the first to join us!¡± Hollow step!

    Reviled teleported behind Solomon and grabbed him. The two wrestled, Solomon desperately trying to escape, but Reviled wouldn¡¯t let him. With the back of Solomon¡¯s head exposed, Reviled closed its mouth and prepared to strike. Another strong soul! There was a flash of green and Reviled found itself struck in the face and thrown off Solomon.

    ¡°Don¡¯t touch him!¡± Schybara said standing protectively in front of Solomon.

    Reviled rose to its feet. Shards of glass fell from the right side of its face. The gears in its jaw whined angrily in protest when it tried to open its mouth. We can¡¯t devour them!

    ¡°By Touldan,¡± Solomon said staring in horror. He touched his sternum, then his right clavicle, and ended the gesture with an arc over his head to touch his left clavicle.

    A terrified cry came from outside. ¡°Help me!¡± a woman cried.

    Schybara glanced at the door, ¡°Are there more of these monsters?¡±

    ¡°Go Halligan,¡± Solomon ordered, ¡°Get her to safety!¡± Halligan ran behind them out through the hole in the wall. ¡°C¡¯mon Schee,¡± Solomon stood next to her, ¡°We need to finish this quickly.¡±

    <hr>

    Screams continued to echo from the night. Halligan rushed around the warehouse trying to locate the victim. He scanned the area and saw woman stumble out of an alley, falling to the ground.

    ¡°I¡¯m coming, miss!¡± Halligan said rushing to her. The woman¡¯s dark dress hid most of her features and the shawl around her head covered her hair. Halligan knelt next to her and investigated the alley but couldn¡¯t see anyone around. ¡°Miss, are you hurt?¡±

    The woman got to her knees and clung tightly to him. ¡°Don¡¯t let them hurt me,¡±

    Halligan gently laid a hand on her back, ¡°Don¡¯t worry miss,¡± he said, ¡°I don¡¯t see your attackers anywhere.¡± He helped her to her feet. Halligan couldn¡¯t stop himself from staring at her cleavage.

    ¡°I¡¯m so grateful,¡± the woman said pressing up against him. ¡°Oh dear, you have dirt on your face. Let me clean it.¡± Halligan blushed as she pulled a handkerchief out of her blouse and gently wiped it against his face. The moist rag slid against his lips and Halligan couldn¡¯t resist licking them. It left a pungent but sweet taste. ¡°All better,¡± she said staring up at him, and although her face was covered in shadows, Halligan couldn¡¯t help but stare into her deep blue eyes. ¡°Can you please help me again?¡±

    ¡°Whatever you need.¡±

    The woman pointed to the alley, ¡°My friend, can you save her?¡±

    ¡°Of course, stay behind me,¡± Halligan said stepping past her.

    After a few feet Halligan stumbled. His vision blurred and a myriad of colors danced on the edges of his vision. His stomach twisted in pain, and he started sweating profusely. Something landed on his back. Whatever was on his back was grabbing at his neck, trying to strangle him with one hand, and the other patted the back of head.

    ¡°Sss, go sleep, go sleep,¡± a voice whispered in his ear.

    Halligan grew exhausted with each pat. He fell forward hitting his head against the cobblestone. Shadows danced in his sight, and his hearing was distorted like he was underwater.

    ¡°Good job Capcap,¡± Halligan heard the woman say as she ran into the night.

    Finally, his eyes closed.

    <hr>

    Solomon panted heavily and his hands shook. Schybara was faring no better. Her heaving chest threatened to distract him, and her blue aura flickered violently. She¡¯d have to empty the church¡¯s pantries to recover her strength. Hopefully the monster was just as tired as they were.

    The monster was trapped in a corner of the warehouse. Solomon drew on his holy magic and infused it into his weapon. It shifted and Schybara¡¯s stepped in front of Solomon and her aura shifted from blue to violet.

    The monster point at them, ¡°Cursed sores.¡± Bolts of blood red energy lashed out at Schybara, and it left small black marks on her skin. The cursed sores faded as her aura negated the magic.

    Solomon stepped past her and thrusted his halberd pinning the monster¡¯s left arm to the wall. The monster cried as it shook violently from the holy magic. This gave Schybara enough time to recover. Changing her aura back to blue, Schybara struck the monster¡¯s left arm and severed it off at the torso.

    Free from the holy magic, the monster dropped it swords, and shoved into Schybara¡¯s shield with its left shoulder. It reached around the shield with its claws leaving cuts across her face. Schybara screamed and Solomon pulled her away as her aura turned pink causing her wounds to heal. The monster¡¯s left arm fell to the floor.

    Schybara rested against Solomon¡¯s chest, ¡°I¡¯m running on empty, Sol.¡±

    ¡°Just a bit more Schee,¡± Solomon whispered and gently pushed her back to her feet.

    They prepared for another attack, but a thud came from behind them.

    ¡°Owie,¡± a muffled voice came from behind. A mushroom¡­with arms and legs rose to it feet. It looked between Solomon and Schybara with blank eyes then its gaze fell to the monster, and it gasped. ¡°Big owie.¡± The mushroom puffed out its¡­chest¡­and raised its fist. Schybara stared in confusion as it lumbered towards her. ¡°Deawy weapon!¡± It punched her right below the knee. Schybara screamed in agonizing pain as electricity surged from the mushrooms fist.

    ¡°Schee!¡± Solomon reached for her. Something glistened in the light, and Solomon raised his arm to protect his face. A bottle broke against his gauntlets. A shard of glass cut his cheek and droplets of liquid splashed onto his face. ¡°Dammit! Who¡­¡± Solomon grunted as his head started hurting.

    The monster ran past with its arm as Solomon and Schybara fell. Solomon turned his sights to his wife. He reached out to her.

    ¡°Schee,¡± he croaked. Solomon found the strength to roll onto his back and placed a hand on his chest. ¡°Touldan¡­save u-us.¡±

    A trickle of holy magic seeped into Solomon¡¯s body, and his mind slightly cleared. With renewed strength, Solomon rose to his feet and placed a hand on Schybara¡¯s back, wiling magic into her. Her breathing calmed, and he helped her into a sitting position.

    Tears shone in Schybara¡¯s eyes. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry¡­Sol,¡± She said, ¡°It¡¯s my fault.¡±

    ¡°We both made a mistake,¡± Solomon said brushing away the hair from her face.

    ¡°Master!¡± Halligan stumbled through the hole. Foamy spittle clung to his mouth. Solomon rushed to his pupil and used the last of his magic to heal him.

    ¡°Easy son, easy,¡± Solomon said patting the boy on the chest.

    Halligan hung his head, ¡°I-I let my guard down,¡± he said.

    ¡°You¡¯re still alive boy, and that¡¯s what matters,¡± Solomon gently, but firmly, beat his fist against Halligan¡¯s armor. He walked over and picked up the leather book on the floor, ¡°This¡­is the Tome of Elithis?¡± He expected the book of the dead goddess of slavery to radiate more necrotic energy.

    ¡°We should get that to the church,¡± Schybara said trying to get up, but she didn¡¯t have the strength. Solomon picked up Schybara, carrying her like a princess. ¡°Put me down, I can walk.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a man¡¯s duty to carry his injured wife to safety,¡± Solomon said. His eyes slid down her body, ¡°Besides, I¡¯m enjoying the view.¡±

    Schybara rested her head, ¡°I¡¯ll give you a better one later.¡±

    Solomon chuckled and turned to Halligan, ¡°Can you carry our gear, boy?¡±

    ¡°Yes sir.¡± Halligan said with a determined stare.

    ¡°Good, then let¡¯s get out of here.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled limped through the wererat camp. Meridith kept her head down the entire trip back, and Cappy gaped like an imbecile. Even the rats squeaked in terror as Reviled passed. Was it the amputated arm? The crushed mouth? Perhaps it was the steel plated skull peeking out of the broken visor. It didn¡¯t matter.

    Meridith finally looked up, ¡°Master, the tome¡­¡±

    ¡°Was a fake,¡± Reviled said, ¡°It was a regular spell book with a few necromancy spells.¡±

    ¡°How do you know?¡±

    ¡°We know Elithis¡¯ magic¡­intimately,¡± it said picking at the broken glass of its visor, ¡°Damn shame we couldn¡¯t devour those heroes. The paladin destroyed five of our souls.

    Meridith covered her mouth, ¡°Laegyn!¡±

    ¡°Is fine, Meridith,¡± Reviled said, ¡°He was protected by the other souls.¡±

    They stepped into Skivret¡¯s tent. Skivret and Nimble sat at the map table, but the two stared in horror when Reviled sat next to them.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Skivret said unable to tear his eyes from Reviled¡¯s skull.

    Reviled tore the rest of its visor off and laid it on the table. ¡°A bad gamble,¡± it said, ¡°And we paid the price.¡±

    ¡°Damn,¡± Skivret sneered, ¡°I can¡¯t have you in this state.¡± Reviled chuckled, but the whining from its gears came out as a cry. ¡°You¡¯re the only thing keeping my people safe. You¡¯re attack on Camp Amvret scared them, and now they don¡¯t venture into my territory anymore.¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll need to undergo repairs,¡± Reviled said picking at the remaining glass. ¡°We¡¯ll need a craftsman, this damage is too much for undead to handle, our schematics, and a lot of gold for parts.¡± It chuckled, ¡°We were not cheap to build.¡±

    ¡°All right,¡± Skivret said staring at the map, ¡°Nimble, prepare an escort. Father¡¯s camp is the largest in the sewers. There must be a craftsman we can recruit there.¡±

    ¡°The gold will be difficult, but we know where to find a copy of our schematics,¡± Reviled said.

    Meridith sat next to it, ¡°Where?¡±

    Reviled gave a hollow chuckle, ¡°The place we were born.¡±

 Reviled Legion

    Bartholomew stepped into the darkness of his cellar. The only light came from the lantern in his left hand. His cellar was like any other, except for the thick steel door at the back. Decker pulled out a silver key from his pocket and unlocked the first of three locks. He reached to the dial above the keyhole and spun it to input the code that unlocked the second lock. The third, and least impressive, was the giant wheel that retracted two locking bars. The door opened silently.

    The vault room impressively displayed the treasure that Bartholomew didn¡¯t want others to see. Just owning one of the relics in this room would earn him the hangman¡¯s noose, but that¡¯s what made them so valuable. He stood in front of the vault¡¯s center piece, the Tome of Elithis.

    The tome sat in a glass case on a singular podium with magic runes carved into it. The runes were needed to mask the books intense necrotic energy. That didn¡¯t stop the ivory, queen ant motif from glowing unnaturally in the low light.

    Bartholomew chuckled. The monster decorating the book, the queen ant, was closely tied to the Dead God due to the monster¡¯s unique abilities. The monster was known for enthralling creatures into its hive mind by using its venom. You could tell someone was enthralled because the queen¡¯s stinger left a nasty mark on the body that never healed. With so many similarities, the church officially changed the monsters name to the queen elithan ant.

    ¡°Thinking of using it pops?¡± Bartholomew turned to see his son standing in the door. Baron¡¯s robes were opened at the chest revealing defined muscles. Bartholomew couldn''t help but be a little jealous of his son¡¯s youth.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already been burnt once,¡± Bartholomew said staring at the book, ¡°I¡¯m not foolish enough to try it again. No matter how tempting compulsion magic is.¡± And it was tempting, but looking at the book caused the scars on his back to itch. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you with your¡­friend?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to leave her,¡± Baron said with a smile, ¡°She¡¯s just as cute sleeping as she is tending to books. But master Aberny sent a message from Solomon,¡± Bartholomew turned fully to his son. ¡°The monster escaped but is severely damaged.¡±

    Bartholomew walked to one of the desks and opened a drawer. ¡°I would have preferred it¡¯s destruction,¡± he said pulling out a leather folder, ¡°But this will work. They¡¯re no possible way Reviled Legion can repair itself.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    Bartholomew laughed heartily, ¡°Of course, it cost over two hundred gold in parts alone. Not to mention, I have Melgareth¡¯s schematics.¡± He waved the folder, ¡°It won¡¯t be able to perform any repairs without these.¡±

    ¡°So, what are you doing with them?¡± Baron said yawning.

    ¡°I¡¯m striking while the iron¡¯s hot,¡± he said, ¡°But you should be focusing on your own interests.¡±

    Baron chuckled, ¡°You¡¯re right. Mine¡¯s prettier to look at.¡±

    Bartholomew watched his son leave, then turned back to the tome. Finally, after six grueling months I can finally be rid of it.

    <hr>

    Six months ago.

    ¡°Mama, I want to go home.¡±

    ¡°I know sweetie.¡±

    Bartholomew tried to ignore the little girl¡¯s incessant whining as he led the group down the damp tunnels of the sewers. He didn¡¯t know the five people behind him, but their debt to him was quite the sum. So much so that they wouldn¡¯t be able to pay it back. Three of the debtors were family.

    The mother held her daughter close while glaring at her husband, ¡°Damn you and you¡¯re gambling addiction.¡± She grumbled. The husband hadn¡¯t looked at his wife throughout the trip.

    The fourth man was a blacksmith. He was the most difficult to wrangle. The many years at the forge made him large and burly, and he had to be bound in chains to keep him secured. Bartholomew was grateful that he brought a good number of guards with him.

    The last man was being dragged along the floor. Baron had suggested him. Apparently, he was a bard who borrowed a large sum just to waste it whoring around. He tried putting up a fight, and now he¡¯s being dragged through the sewers with a swollen face.

    ¡°This is a mistake pops,¡± Baron called out, ¡°The quack¡¯s going to turn on you.¡±

    ¡°Why do you think I brought so many guards,¡± Bartholomew said holding tight onto the leather package, ¡°You¡¯re to kill Melgareth if he tries anything.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir!¡± the guards replied.

    ¡°And I thought you brought them for the rats,¡± Baron snickered.

    Bartholomew sneered at the comment. It had taken him years to chase the wererats out of the upper city sewers, and it was important to keep them out. Especially when the Duke paid well for Bartholomew¡¯s business to ¡°maintain¡± the city¡¯s sewers. It also meant Bartholomew had free reign to modify the sewer how every he saw fit, and the steel door in front of them was proof of that.Bartholomew banged on the door. After several loud thuds, the door swung open. Bartholomew stepped into madness.

    Madness was the only way to describe the lab. There was a desk with papers haphazardly strewn across it, and magical formulas scribbled onto the walls. Five copper chambers sat along one wall with copper wires running up the walls and along the ceiling to a magical apparatus that hung over a tarp covered table.

    ¡°Welcome, master Decker,¡± Bartholomew turned to the man standing next to the door.

    Melgareth¡¯s appearance was just as chaotic as his laboratory. The man¡¯s shaved the right side of his head, but let his hair grow long on his left. White-blond bangs covered the left side of his face, but the right was marked with self-imposed scars and tattoos. There was a disturbing light to the man¡¯s hazel eyes, partly because the man never blinked.

    Melgareth clapped joyfully, ¡°Excellent, you brought the last thing I needed,¡± his eyes fell to the pouch, ¡°And the tome of course.¡±

    ¡°You better deliver Melgareth,¡± Batholomew said pushing past him, ¡°I didn¡¯t spend a small fortune on a failure.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Melgareth said with a twisted smile, ¡°I would be disappointed if it failed too, since this is my life¡¯s work.¡±If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Bartholomew scoffed, ¡°You¡¯re telling me the academy backed this?¡± he said.

    ¡°Of course not!¡± Melgareth tore at his arms, ¡°Those fools hate progress! Look at them. Fighting the armies of the undead with the living. True idiocy. But you¡¯re no fool, are you master Decker.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see,¡± Bartholomew said handing over the pouch.

    Melgareth let out a wheezy laugh, ¡°Of course,¡± he turned to the guards, ¡°Put the sacrifices in the chambers. One per each.¡±

    That caused an uproar. The blacksmith did his best to fight, but he couldn¡¯t do much bound in heavy chains. The family broke out in horrendous crying. The husband tried to fight but was quickly subdued, and the wife screamed curses at both her husband and the guards as she tried to keep them from taking her crying child. Even the bard moaned in protest despite his condition. Bartholomew suppressed the shiver running down his spine as the chamber hissed shut.

    Melgareth hummed happily as he pulled the Tome of Elithis from the pouch and placed it on the podium in front of the covered table. He pulled off the tarp. Laying on the table was some kind of monster, that was the only way to describe it. It was humanoid in shape with a head, torso, two arms and legs, but the hands and feet were monstrous claws, and its entire body was made of metal. Cloudy glass covered the upper face of the metal head, and Bartholomew could make out the silhouette of the skull underneath. That request disturbed Bartholomew the most.

    ¡°Are we ready?¡± Melgareth said with a huge smile. His tone gave Bartholomew goosebumps.

    Bartholomew cleared his throat, ¡°Proceed,¡¯

    The air became heavy the moment Melgareth opened the book. The shadows grew darker, and a thick blanket of silence fell around them. Bartholomew felt like he was being watched. That he was the amusement for something powerful and ominous. Melgareth¡¯s chanting drew his focus.

    Bartholomew didn¡¯t recognize the words, but he could feel the power behind them. Two magical sigils appeared above and below the table, glowing angry red with the symbol of Elithis in the center. Five more sigils appeared on each of the chambers. Bartholomew could make out strange runes circling with the sigils. Lightning arced from the apparatus striking the monster on the table. Then came the screams.

    The people in the chambers were screaming in pure agony. The cries muffled, but Bartholomew could guess what they were saying. Electricity ran along the copper wires where it continued to strike. There was a battle between Melgareth¡¯s chanting and the painful screams.

    ¡°Do you see that?¡± Baron said gesturing towards the ceiling.

    Bartholomew looked and his eyes widened in shock. There looked to be a hole in the ceiling above the apparatus, but it opened into a place he had never seen before. It was dark. Darker than anything he had seen before, and yet, Bartholomew could make out a throne in the darkness and a woman sitting upon it. The woman¡¯s features were hidden but he knew she was smiling. A smile that rivaled Melgareth¡¯s.

    There was a loud thunderous snap, and the screams from one of the chambers intensified. The brightest bolt of lightning struck causing the body to arch its back before laying back down. The screaming died down as did one of the sigils. This continued. Snap. Scream. Flash. After the third snap a cry erupted from the monster, and Bartholomew took a step back. The monster¡¯s lower face opened, cheeks parting to the side and the jaw dropped, and out shot a bladed tongue. A fourth snap, and this time the monster moved. Not out of a reaction from being struck but it struggled against its bonds. The fifth snap. The lightning and screams stopped and were replaced by the breaking of chains.

    Red eyes glowed from beneath the monster¡¯s glass visor. Slowly, it retracted its tongue and closed its mouth, then it rose from the table. Melgareth cackled in delight as the monster approached and turned to his audience.

    Pure joy radiated from him, ¡°Behold! I give you, Reviled Legion!¡±

    Melgareth¡¯s laughter echoed through the room as Bartholomew took another step back. Then it stopped, and blood ran down Melgareth¡¯s face. The monster, Reviled Legion, threw Melgareth¡¯s body to the side, and the woman¡¯s laughter filled the silence.

    ¡°D-destroy it!¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°We can¡¯t let that thing escape.¡± No one moved. ¡°Fine! A hundred gold coins to the person who brings me its head.¡±

    Greed overtook cowardice and the guards charged all at once. Despite just being born, the monster moved gracefully. It dodged cudgels and deflected blades and struck back with its claws. Three men out of twenty laid dead.

    It can¡¯t get the book! Bartholomew ran past the fighting to the podium and slammed the tome shut. The woman¡¯s laughter ceased as the portal vanished. Bartholomew ran back to the door dragging Baron as he passed. One of the guards followed behind.

    They ran, but the monster¡¯s shrieks sounded close. A side tunnel appeared.

    ¡°We need to split up!¡± Bartholomew said and turned to the guard. ¡°Keep going straight. Try to get to the surface.¡±

    Bartholomew and his son took the side tunnel and darkness overtook the path behind them. An agonizing scream came from the tunnel behind them. The tunnel continued, but they couldn¡¯t find any gates that led outside. Growls echoed throughout the tunnel, and the clash of metal on stone grew louder. The tunnel opened into a large chamber that housed the city¡¯s largest water reservoir. Metal pipes ran along the walls and into the ceiling above.

    ¡°Dammit, we¡¯re under the castle!¡± Bartholomew said looking around. He noticed the door on their right. ¡°That must be the controls for the flood gates. I have an idea,¡± he opened the door and pushed Baron inside. He pointed to the largest lever on the wall. ¡°Pull that lever on my mark.¡±

    Bartholomew approached the edge of the reservoir and turned towards the tunnel. Glowing red eyes pierced the darkness as the monster stepped into view.

    ¡°Now!¡±

    Gears creaked and the roar of rushing water filled the room. The monster growled and fell to all fours as it ran at him. Bartholomew waited. Then the moment he was waiting for happened. The monster pounced with its claws outstretched, but Bartholomew dove to the ground. He felt the monster¡¯s claws rake his back, but it flew past. Water splashed behind Bartholomew, and he rose to his feet to watch as the monster was pulled into the massive whirlpool.

    ¡°That was close.¡± Baron said watching.

    ¡°Agreed, but we need to go back to the lab,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°We need to gather anything of value before it comes back.¡±

    <hr>

    Present.

    Reviled stood in the remains of the lab. Decker cleaned it out. The only things that remained were the five copper chambers, the apparatus on the ceiling, and the table. There was also Melgareth¡¯s body thrown against the wall, bloated, decayed, and gnawed on by rats.

    Reviled barely remembered the lab. Most of its early memories were fragments of feelings and instincts. It wasn¡¯t until the third week before its consciousness fully developed. That¡¯s why it took three days to locate this place.

    ¡°Whats dat!¡± Cappy said point to the chambers.

    ¡°Open it,¡± Reviled ordered the skeleton that accompanied them. It hated relying on the undead warriors, but it wouldn¡¯t take any chances. Not in its current state. The skeleton opened the chamber to reveal a pile of ash. Nothing remained of the sacrifices except for a few bones and a child¡¯s skull. ¡°These were the first to join us. From them, we were born.¡±

    Her hands covered her mouth, ¡°How horrible,¡± Meridith said staring at the skull.

    ¡°He was indeed,¡± Reviled said stepping past them, ¡°And Bartholomew is just as guilty.¡±

    ¡°What did they want?¡±

    ¡°A weapon,¡± Reviled said staring at Melgareth¡¯s body, ¡°Our creator sought to rival the Wight King, and Decker wanted to cleanse the wererats. So, they joined forces,¡± It chuckled, ¡°But Melgareth bit off more than he could chew. He thought using Elithis¡¯ magic would bind us, make us a slave. The fool didn¡¯t account for us having five souls.¡±

    Meridith hugged herself, ¡°Are you certain the schematics are here?¡± she said, ¡°This place is empty.¡±

    ¡°They are,¡± Reviled slid its finger along the wall and tapped on a brick. It scratched at the mortar and pulled out the brick. Two books sat in the cavity. ¡°We should be grateful Melgareth was so paranoid.¡± It said pulling out the books.

    ¡°Two?¡±

    ¡°A wizard is nothing without a spell book,¡± it passed the books to Meridith, ¡°It should prove more useful than Ilan¡¯s spell book. Melgareth loved collecting necromancy and compulsion spells, despite them being illegal.¡±

    ¡°Pwetty pictures,¡± Cappy said tugging on Meridith¡¯s dress, ¡°Let me see!¡±

    ¡°Later sweetie,¡± Meridith said despite Reviled¡¯s growl, ¡°You can look at them after Reviled.¡±

    ¡°Okay!¡± Cappy said with a cheerful smile. She started sucking on a finger bone.

    ¡°We have what we need,¡± Reviled said heading to the door, ¡°Let us return to camp.¡±

 A Kings Path

    ¡°How are you feeling Nimble?¡± Skivret said. He was glad that her limp was gone.

    ¡°Good sire,¡± Nimble said. Her ears twitched under his gaze. ¡°I appreciate you bringing me, even if it slowed you down.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re my right hand,¡± He said, ¡°It¡¯s important to have you near.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t disappoint,¡± Nimble¡¯s ears twitched wildly. Skivret smiled at her embarrassment.

    They turned the corner and the walls of Camp Radigalst stood before them. The Rat King¡¯s camp was the pride and joy for their people. Unlike Skivret¡¯s camp, the wooden planks that made the walls were uniform and treated and bound together by iron brackets. Lanterns shown on the open gate in front of them. It was the only camp with an actual gate with hinges. Two guards stood watch as Skivret¡¯s entourage approached.

    ¡°Halt!¡± a guard said, ¡°State your business.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m prince Skivret,¡± he said approaching the guards, ¡°I¡¯ve come to speak with my father.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking bout red eyes,¡± The other guard spat, ¡°The princes are already inside with the king.¡±

    ¡°He is a prince!¡± Nimble said pushing forward, ¡°You will treat him with respect.¡±

    ¡°Like shite I will,¡± the guard said, ¡°His kind bring bad luck with dem red eyes, and that mark on his face,¡± the guard squinted, ¡°It¡¯s on all your faces. Go away!¡±

    Nimble reached for her sword but Skivret stopped her, ¡°Wait,¡± he said pulling her back to join his other guards, ¡°On my signal, rush both of them, but don¡¯t kill them.¡± He approached the gate.

    ¡°You just don¡¯t give up.¡± The guard said with a growl.

    ¡°I¡¯m going inside,¡± Skivret said thumping his tail on the stone. His guards rushed forward brandishing their new spears that Reviled brought them. The gate guards squeaked in surprise and lashed out, but their wooden spears broke on the metal breastplates, another gift from Reviled. ¡°Now stand aside.¡± He said striding forward.

    The gate guards growled but stepped back to let them pass. Skivret¡¯s guards lowered their weapons when they passed through the gate.

    The camp was bathed in the light of many lanterns. Some were made from the colored glass of bottles or with broken stained glass. The colorful lights paired nicely with the music coming from the band playing outside of a tavern. One musician masterfully played the spoons. Humans couldn¡¯t appreciate the music the wererats made from the handmade junk instruments. Skivret enjoyed coming to this camp.

    ¡°This must be what the city is like!¡± Nimble said staring in awe.

    ¡°Maybe,¡± Skivret said chuckling, ¡°But I¡¯ll take this over the city above any day.¡±

    They continued further in. The camp¡¯s streets followed the tunnels with bridges to cross over the canals. Tents were the only buildings, but not all were houses. The larger tents tended to be taverns with open flaps as invitation. There were chairs, but pillows, and the tables were legless sitting on the ground. The store owners sat on plush pillows with their goods laid out on a carpet for all to see. They called out their wares trying to entice the crowd to peruse. Citizens stopped and gawked at the passing entourage. Only the King¡¯s champions wore metal armor, and Skivret¡¯s fine cloak, a gift from Meridith, made him stand out from the simple vest and tunic that the average wererat wore. Although, he didn¡¯t like the stares from the females as they adjusted their wrapped dresses. Skivret pushed the group to speed up, and they rounded a corner that led to the Rat King¡¯s palace.

    The Rat King¡¯s palace consisted of multiple tents of various sizes and colors. Many called it the rainbow castle. The palace overlooked a large reservoir that lay behind it with a dock on the side. This allowed the scavengers to bring their tribute to the king. They stepped into the warmth of the entrance.

    ¡°Stop!¡± a robed, elderly wererat approached. His deep blue robes clashed with the red sash draping his shoulders. His grey fur was well groomed. ¡°You can¡¯t just walk into the palace.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see my father Write,¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°Prince Skivret?¡± Write said squinting his beady eyes, ¡°I hardly recognize you!¡± his eyes flashed back and forth between the seal over Skivret¡¯s left eye and the scars on the right. ¡°What happened?¡±

    Skivret took a deep breath, ¡°A lot,¡± he said, ¡°I need to speak with my father. Is he here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, right this way.¡±

    They followed Write into the palace. Fine silk curtains and rugs decorated the interior. It was the only place in the sewers that one could find such opulence. Write led them to a room with the flaps to the next tent closed.

    ¡°Your guards need to stay here,¡± he said.

    The next room was the most luxurious in the entire palace. Golden candelabras lit the room showing off the fine tapestries. Golden chains, made from stolen jewelry, hung from the support beam with the inset gems glistening in the light. A gold-plated throne sat at the back of room with the Rat King sitting on it.

    The Rat King was twice the height of Skivret and three times his width, but there was a hint of brawn beneath the fat. Due to his size, he only wore a fine cloak around his shoulders, and a golden pendant. His dark brown fur was specked with grey highlights. Three well dressed wererats stood in front of the king. Skivret ignored the glares from his brothers.

    ¡°Sire, I present Prince Skivret,¡± Write said kneeling.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a long-time son,¡± the Rat King said with a faint smile, ¡°You look like shite.¡±

    Skivret chuckled lightly, ¡°Really, it¡¯s hard to tell these days,¡± he said, ¡°My right eye¡¯s isn¡¯t what it used to be.¡±

    The king slapped his leg in laughter, ¡°Your blind too!¡± After a few seconds the King took in his son, ¡°Truthfully, I like the scar, it looks good on you, but I can¡¯t say the same for the crest. What happen?¡±

    ¡°I was played,¡± Skivret said with a sigh, ¡°Decker¡¯s monster took advantage of my desperation, and this was the result.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re in cahoots with the monster?¡± Skivret¡¯s eldest brother said turning to their father, ¡°He¡¯s a traitor, execute him!¡±

    ¡°How dare you order me Olmret!¡± the king said slamming a fist.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    ¡°But he admitted to it,¡±

    ¡°Yes, and he has paid the price,¡± the king said looking at his sons, ¡°If ya want him dead, then kill him yourself, by yourself.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡± Olmret said in disbelief.

    ¡°No buts,¡± the king said gesturing for Skivret to come forward. He waited till Skivret stood by his brothers. ¡°Only one of you will become king, and you all have to prove yourself like I did.¡±

    ¡°Have I not proven myself?¡± Olmret said in shock.

    The king shook his head, ¡°No,¡± he said, ¡°You will only be recognized once all your brothers submit. That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t get involved in your scuffle with Skivret.¡±

    Olmret turned to his brothers, ¡°Dolbret, Uhlgret, submit now!¡± Their ears laid flat and their tails tucked around their legs. Pleased, Olmret turned to Skivret, ¡°Submit, and I¡¯ll end our feud. No more attacks, I swear.¡±

    Skivret stared at his brother, the fur on his neck rising, ¡°No, I¡¯m taking the throne,¡± he said.

    Olmret grabbed Skivret by the collar, ¡°Then I¡¯ll kill ya, ya little shite,¡± he said with a growl, ¡°I was fighting while you were learning to read.¡±

    ¡°No fighting in my camp!¡± the king said, ¡°If you want to fight then take it to the arena.¡±

    ¡°Later,¡± Skivret said pulling himself free, ¡°I have more important business to tend to.¡± Olmret snarled and stormed out of the room with his brothers close behind him.

    ¡°You best finish your business quickly,¡± the king said, ¡°Write, help him with whatever he needs.¡±

    ¡°Follow me prince,¡± Write led Skivret out of the throne room. Write took Skivret to his old room in the palace. ¡°How may I help?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m looking to recruit a tinker,¡± Skivret said, ¡°Are there any in the camp willing to move?¡±

    ¡°A tinker?¡± Write tugged at his whiskers, ¡°I¡¯ll spread the word and let you know.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Write,¡±

    ¡°Anything for my favorite pupil,¡± the old rat said.

    <hr>

    Skivret¡¯s tail thumped against the floor as he sat in his room. He heard the flap to his tent open and looked up hopefully, but his ears drooped when he saw Write step into the room.

    ¡°Well?¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry milord,¡± Write said, ¡°No one came today.¡±

    Skivret squeaked in frustration, ¡°It¡¯s been three days,¡± he said pulling at his whiskers, ¡°I expected at least one to show up.¡±

    ¡°Then why not go and scout the city?¡± Write said, ¡°Engage with your people. Trust me, it will help.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Write,¡± Skivret said strapping on his sword belt, ¡°Can you get Nimble to meet me at the front?¡±

    Write bowed, ¡°Of course.¡±

    He¡¯s right. Skivret stepped out of his room. If I want to be king, then I need to know my people. Skivret moved through the halls until he came to the entrance. He didn¡¯t have to wait long for Nimble.

    She panted, ¡°Did I keep you waiting, sire?¡± she said looking around, ¡°Are the other guards not coming?¡±

    ¡°No, I wanted it to be the two of us,¡± Skivret said, ¡°Are you ready?¡±

    Nimble¡¯s ears twitched wildly, ¡°Of course,¡± She followed Skivret out of the castle.

    They wandered through the camp streets, enthralled by the sights and sounds. It had a different feel to home. Here, everything felt like a celebration with the multicolored lanterns and music in the air. The shopping district was especially loud with calling vendors. Skivret stood in front of a jewelry stall. He noticed Nimble staring at a brass hoop earring.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take that one,¡± Skivret said handing over several copper coins.

    ¡°Thank you sir,¡±

    Skivret handed the jewelry to Nimble, ¡°Thank you, sire,¡± she said piercing her ear. She inspected herself in the mirror. ¡°It¡¯s pretty.¡±

    ¡°It looks good on you,¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°Why isn¡¯t it done yet!¡± The shouting drew Skivret¡¯s attention down the street. A crowd started gathering in front of a tent with a broken anvil out front and an elderly black rat sat on the ground sharping a sword. Olmret glared at the tinkerer, ¡°Why isn¡¯t my sword ready yet? I brought it to you this morning.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not the only one paying me to fix their weapon,¡± the elderly rat said calmly, ¡°I have other swords to get to first.¡±

    ¡°I am a prince!¡± Olmret stepped closer, ¡°I should be taken care of first.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not how it works,¡±

    Olmret grabbed the elderly rat by the fur and pressed him against the anvil. ¡°Are you sure about that,¡± he turned to his guards, ¡°Cut his ears off.¡± The crowd gasped in horror.

    ¡°No, papa!¡± a white wererat in a rose wrap shouted while being held back by a pair of black and white wererats.

    ¡°Stop it!¡± Skivret said pushing through the crowd.

    ¡°This isn¡¯t your business, red eyes,¡± Olmret said glaring at his brother.

    ¡°I¡¯m making it my business,¡± Skivret said staring down at his brother, ¡°Now let him go.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°You challenged me to a fight,¡± Skivret said drawing his short sword, ¡°Let¡¯s fight, just the two of us.¡±

    Olmret stood and towered over his brother, ¡°To the arena, now.¡±

    <hr>

    Skivret stood in the arena. News of the fight spread quickly because a massive crowd gathered around the edge. Olmret stood on the other side of the arena testing out his longsword. Half of the blade was missing, but it still required two hands for Olmret to use. Skivret looked down at his own short sword. Remember my forms. Skivret took a calming breath and gripped his sword in both hands.

    ¡°You can do it sire!¡± Nimble said from above.

    The crowd fell silent, and a bell rang.

    Olmret charged, holding his sword above his head. Skivret smoothly slid to the side and struck with his sword. The blade nicked Olmret¡¯s shoulder, and he slashed sideways at Skivret. Skivret dodged the attack and the one that followed. What is wrong with his moves. Skivret dodged the next attack and charged forward, cutting into Olmret¡¯s side. They¡¯re slow and sloppy. Skivret cut Olmret¡¯s side again. I¡¯m not that skilled, which means.

    ¡°Why are you fighting with a weapon you¡¯re not used to?¡± Skivret said glaring at his brother.

    ¡°Because I don¡¯t need my normal sword to beat you,¡± Olmret said in frustration, ¡°You¡¯re a runt, I can crush easily.¡±

    Skivret tightened his grip, ¡°You¡¯ll regret that,¡± he said, ¡°I¡¯ll teach you the lesson I learned from Decker¡¯s monster.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±

    Skivret rushed past cutting Olmret¡¯s arm and leg. ¡°Never underestimate your enemy,¡±

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Olmret charged as he swung his sword wildly.

    Olmret¡¯s attacks were obvious. Skivret dodged and parried each one with ease and retaliated with his own attacks. Skivret¡¯s strikes were shallow but were accumulating quickly. Olmret¡¯s tunic was drenched in blood and sweat, and he panted heavily. Olmret struck with a desperate cry. Skivret dodged and slashed in a wide arc. Olmret screamed in pain. Blood ran down Olmret¡¯s face and onto the floor, next to his severed ear.

    Skivret pointed his sword at his brother¡¯s face, ¡°Surrender,¡±

    ¡°No!¡±

    Skivret pulled on Olmret¡¯s left ear and cut it off. ¡°A rat without ears,¡± he said with a snicker, ¡°Nearly as disgusting as an albino.¡± Olmret scowled at him.

    ¡°Enough!¡± They looked up to see the Rat King staring down at them. ¡°You¡¯re fight¡¯s over.¡± He looked at Olmret with disgust, ¡°I want you gone,¡± He turned to Skivret with a smirk, ¡°You too. I want you both gone by tomorrow,¡± he turned to leave, ¡°Take your war someplace else.¡±

    Two of Olmret¡¯s guards aided him out of the pit. Skivret climbed out and stood next to Nimble. The tinkerer and his family approached.

    ¡°Thank you sire. My name is Rench¡± the elderly rat bowed, ¡°If there is anything you desire then it is yours.¡±

    ¡°I came looking for a tinkerer,¡± Skivret said taking a deep breath, ¡°I would like for you to join, but you should know¡­my clan is serving Decker¡¯s monster. Are you fine with that?¡±

    Rench hesitated, ¡°Of course,¡± he said, ¡°You protected me, and that¡¯s all that matters,¡± Rench slowly rose to his feet, ¡°My family and I will meet you at the gate.¡±

    <hr>

    Skivret¡¯s stepped through the gate to his camp triumphantly. Rench¡¯s sons pulled the cart carrying their possessions.

    ¡°Welcome back sire,¡± Blegt said with a salute.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Reviled?¡±

    ¡°In your tent sire,¡± Blegt said scratching at his chin nervously, ¡°He came back two days ago, and hasn¡¯t left.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Skivret turned to Nimble, ¡°Please take care of Rench¡¯s family,¡± he turned to Rench, ¡°Time for you to meet the master.¡±

    Skivret took Rench to his tent. Inside, they found Reviled sitting at the table looking through one of two books. Cappy laid on Reviled¡¯s right shoulder reading the book too.

    Reviled turned the page, ¡°No,¡± Cappy said and Reviled turned it back. She hummed quietly then said, ¡°Next page.¡±

    ¡°Are you even reading?¡±

    ¡°Yes," she said, "This one''s about Billy who brought his dog back to life," Reviled growled at her response, "and this one''s about Frank. His wife left him and now he¡¯s sad, kinda'' like the mouse." Skivret sat at the table, "Hi mouse!"

    ¡°I¡¯m back,¡± Skivret said sneering at Cappy, ¡°And I brought a tinkerer.¡± Skivret¡¯s eyes fell to the table when Reviled turned to them. Rench gasped in horror.

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We welcome you¡­¡±

    ¡°Rench¡­master Reviled,¡± he said, ¡°I take it you¡¯re the reason the prince needed a tinkerer?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± it pushed the other book towards them, ¡°Here are our schematics. Let Skivret know if you need anything specific.¡± Rench nodded, taking the book. ¡°One last thing,¡± it chuckled, ¡°Where would you like the mark?¡±

 Amuâ€™Ryjin

    Meridith kneeled before the statue of Hallomarae, the goddess of peace and forgiveness. She prayed that Laegyn¡¯s and Jal¡¯s soul. She visited the large church several times, keeping an eye on the three adventurers heading towards the door with their packs. Meridith kept her head covered with a dark green shawl that matched her rich velvet dress. She didn¡¯t expect Solomon and Schybara to recognize her since she had little interaction with them at the guild, and thankfully, Halligan hadn¡¯t caught onto her from that night. Meridith pulled her shawl further down when Baron entered the church.

    ¡°You three are looking quite well,¡± Baron said noticing their luggage, ¡°Are you leaving?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Solomon said as his hand went to the pack at his side, ¡°It¡¯s best to get the book out of the city as soon as possible. We would have left earlier, but the fight with the monster took its toll.¡±

    ¡°Understandable, but quite a pity,¡± Baron said letting his eyes fall onto Schybara. She glared in response.

    ¡°I¡¯m planning on staying,¡± Halligan said, ¡°That monster is still out there, and I don¡¯t think the other adventurers could stop it.¡±

    ¡°The gods bless you, my good man,¡± Baron said clapping Halligan on the shoulder, ¡°Would you care to join me for lunch?¡±

    ¡°Not today. I want to see master Solomon and Lady Schybara off on their journey to Mrythala.¡±

    ¡°Another time then,¡± Baron said with a smile, ¡°Perhaps you can join my father and I to the tournament later this week?¡±

    ¡°That sounds interesting.¡±

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t stall you any longer. Until we meet again.¡± Baron bowed and let them step past. Baron followed them out.

    Meridith rose to her feet and followed them. She could see Solomon¡¯s group heading to the gate with their horses, but chose to follow Baron.

    The church was in the upper part of the city. She walked among the wealthiest members of the city. The wealthy wives spent most of their time shopping while their servants carried their bulky packages. Baron continued down the street and stepped into a luxurious inn and tavern.

    Many wealthy citizens were inside partaking in lunch. Meridith saw Baron head into the back of the tavern and sat in one of the private booths. Meridith took a seat at the bar trying to peer into the booth but couldn¡¯t see anything. The noise from the other patrons made it difficult to overhear, and she didn¡¯t dare get closer.

    ¡°What can I get you missy?¡± the bartender said.

    ¡°Something light and fruity please,¡± she said with a charming smile.

    Meridith let her eyes wander over the crowd. She found herself enjoying the buzz of the crowd. She spent the last week gathering information on Baron and Solomon, and she was starting to feel lonely. Why hasn¡¯t Reviled called on me? The crowd erupted into cheers and whistles as a young woman descended the stairs.

    The woman was shorter than average but quite voluptuous. Her long silky, black hair was done in an intricate bun held together by an ornate gold and lapis lazuli pin. Her vibrant green eyes contrasted with her lavender pupil. Her luxurious blue and green robes were parted to show off the delicate porcelain skin of her cleavage and the right side ended mid-thigh to show off a short underskirt. Her clothes made her stand out amongst the other women. She carried a strange stringed instrument that had a diamond shaped body with a wide thin neck. Meridith placed a hand on her stomach when she saw a slave crest branded on the woman¡¯s thigh.

    ¡°An Amu¡¯Ryjin!¡± Meridith stared in disbelief.

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am,¡± the bartender said setting down a tumbler, ¡°The owner brought her in about two months ago. She paid quite the sum too.¡±

    ¡°She not indentured?¡± she said leaning towards him, ¡°Why hasn¡¯t the church freed her?¡± The bartender rubbed his thumb against his index and middle fingers. ¡°Of course.¡±

    The bartender nodded, ¡°She just came of age too, and the owner¡¯s been taking advantage of that.¡± he said with a harsh whisper.

    Meridith stared in shock as the woman sang in a foreign language, a haunting, somber tune. The instrument sat between her legs with the neck rest against her shoulder. Her lyrics harmonized with the slow plucking of her instrument, and her voice echoed throughout the room. The air shifted with the sweet scent of lavender. She stopped singing but her plucking continued, but at a faster pace. A deep base tone resonated through the room, and it struck a chord that brought a tear to everyone¡¯s eyes.

    Silence filled the room.

    The Amu¡¯Ryjin woman stood up from the stage and headed towards the bar, but a middle-aged patron approached her. He whispered in the woman¡¯s ear, and she responded with a shaky nod. They headed upstairs.

    ¡°Looks like he wants to partake in her other services.¡± The bartender said shaking his head in disgust.

    Meridith pulled out her handkerchief and the vial of Cappy¡¯s poison. She dabbed the liquid onto the cloth. She carefully tucked the cloth into her pocket, grabbed her drink, and followed the two upstairs. They hadn¡¯t gotten far.

    Meridith took a sip and slurred her words, ¡°Miss,¡± she called out and stumbled towards them, ¡°Miss, y-you were¡­a-amazing,¡± she faked a trip and threw the contents of her glass onto the man, and she stared in horror, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±

    ¡°You should be.¡± The man said in disgust.

    Meridith pulled out the cloth from her pocket, ¡°Let me clean you up,¡± she said dabbing the cloth against the man¡¯s face and hands.

    ¡°Enough,¡± the man said pushing her off, ¡°I have m¡­more important¡­¡± he grabbed his head then fell.

    ¡°Sir?¡± the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman said staring at him in confusion.

    Meridith pocketed the cloth, ¡°Do you want to be free?¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Do you want to be free?¡± Meridith said with a soft smile, ¡°I can get you out of here, but only if you want to,¡± the Amu¡¯Ryjin stared at the floor then tightly shut her eyes and violently nodded. Meridith gently took her hand, ¡°Stay close to me,¡± she pulled her to the edge of the stairs and screamed, ¡°He¡¯s dead!¡± Meridith rushed downstairs dragging the Amu¡¯Ryjin, ¡°Someone help.¡±

    Meridith¡¯s cries drew everyone¡¯s attention and two guards rushed upstairs. Baron and a middle-aged woman rose from the booth and the woman rushed towards the stairs. A crowd gathered at the base of the stares.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    ¡°What happened?¡± the woman said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t know ma¡¯am,¡± a guard called from upstairs, ¡°The man up here is dead.¡±

    Meridith dragged the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman towards the door but ran into Baron. ¡°You¡¯re being naughty Meri,¡± he said with a chuckle.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time for you Decker,¡± Meridith said pushing past him.

    Meridith heard Baron, ¡°Delilah your pet is running away!¡±

    Meridith started running when she heard the woman shout after them. She pulled the woman down a side street.

    ¡°Reviled!¡± Meridith panted heavily.

    Reviled¡¯s familiar appeared running alongside them. What¡¯s wrong?

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­in a bit of trouble,¡±

    The rat looked over its shoulder, We can see that. Meridith looked and saw five guards chasing them. We¡¯re coming, but it¡¯ll take us time to get to you. Can you get to the sewers?

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But there aren¡¯t many gates in the upper city.¡±

    Meridith ran out of the side street and into the crowd. She kept hold of the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman¡¯s hand to keep them from getting separated. The crowd slowed their progress, but they not as much as the men chasing them. Meridith took the side street on her right. The side street twisted in between the buildings and came to a dead end.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Meridith said. She turned back but the guards were blocking the way.

    <hr>

    Meridith¡¯s arms ached. Her arms were bound with rope, and she hung from a hook in her underclothing. The thin blouse and petticoat didn¡¯t protect her from the cold warehouse. The guards neatly organized her belongings onto a small table. The light from the outside faded to darkness.

    The Amu¡¯Ryjin woman sat in a chair with her head bowed, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she muttered over and over.

    ¡°Did you have to take my dress?¡± Meridith said with a glare.

    ¡°Needed to make sure you weren¡¯t hiding anything.¡± A guard lit the lanterns to compensate for the dying light.

    Before she could answer the warehouse door slammed open. ¡°Where is she!¡± the tavern owner, Delilah, stormed in with Baron and a smartly dressed woman.

    Baron¡¯s eyes lingered on Meridith. ¡°Enjoy the view,¡± she said with a snarl, ¡°You never know when you¡¯ll go blind.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take you up on your offer,¡± Baron said with a slick smile.

    ¡°Enough!¡± Delilah said smacking Meridith, ¡°Do you know how much trouble you caused me? I had to close my tavern for the day, and I had paladins of Touldan tearing it apart.¡±

    ¡°Pity,¡± Meridith said with a smile.

    Delilah slapped her again, ¡°I¡¯ll make you pay for this,¡± she said sizing her up, ¡°One way or another. Bring me my slave wand.¡±

    ¡°Sorry, but I¡¯m taken,¡± Meridith said with a smile, ¡°In fact, he should be on his way here.¡±

    Baron raised an eyebrow, ¡°He?¡±

    ¡°Yes, he,¡± she said, ¡°Only a man would be so stubborn.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± the smartly dressed woman said. Baron looked hurt, ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± she said with a smile.

    ¡°Be that way,¡± Baron scoffed, ¡°We¡¯re leaving Delilah.¡± He gave Meridith a charming smile and wave as he left.

    ¡°See you tomorrow,¡± Delilah turned back to Meridith. She held a black wand with a platinum handle. ¡°I¡¯m glad I bought this slaver¡¯s wand,¡± she said pressing the tip between Meridith¡¯s breasts, ¡°This is a good spot. Hold still, this will hurt a lot.¡±

    Meridith felt the magic. It warmed her skin at the point of contact, but the mark on her stomach started to burn. It was uncomfortable but not unbearable. The wand sparked magic and blown out of her grasp.

    Delilah stared in horror, ¡°What happened!¡± she said trying to fix her hair. ¡°What¡¯s¡­that,¡± Delilah pulled up Meridith¡¯s blouse showing off the red slave crest. She started laughing, ¡°You¡¯re a slave?¡± she said, ¡°Isn¡¯t that interesting. Where¡¯s your master? Did you run away? You know he''ll find you because the crest can track slaves,¡± she held up the wand. The tip and the Amu¡¯Ryjin''s crest glowed red. "It can also do this," she pointed the wand at the girl and she started screaming in pain.

    ¡°Stop it,¡± Meridith said, ¡°She¡¯s a child!¡±

    Delilah stopped, ¡°She needed to be disciplined,¡± she said appraising her, ¡°Now how to get rid of this crest?¡± A crash came from the second floor, ¡°What was that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll go check it out.¡± One of the guards said. He disappeared into the shadows of the loft. After a minute, ¡°It was just a shutter.¡±

    ¡°What if I do this?¡± Delilah pressed the wand against the crest.

    The magic from the wand surged against her crest. The clashing energies seared against Meridith¡¯s skin causing her to scream in pain. The torment lasted forever. The wand exploded into multiple pieces, and Meridith cried in relief.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Delilah said staring at the broken wand, ¡°This cost me a fortune,¡± she stared at Meridith¡¯s crest, "Someone powerful created this crest. I''ll have to hire a wizard to replace it."

    One guard looked to the loft, ¡°What¡¯s taking him?¡± he said heading upstairs. He disappeared into the shadows, ¡°What the-¡± His screams rang through the warehouse.

    ¡°He¡¯s here,¡± Meridith coughed out a laugh.

    The two remaining guards ran to the ladder. There came a hard crash, the breaking of bones and the screams of the guards. Meridith¡¯s smile grew at the sight of Delilah¡¯s horrified stare.

    ¡°Took you long enough,¡± Meridith said.

    The tension in Meridith¡¯s arms disappeared as her bonds were cut. She turned to Reviled and gasped. The lower half of Reviled¡¯s face was missing making it look more like an undead horror. Blood dripped from the metal tube attached to the roof of its mouth. A ragged cloak covers the left side of its body.

    ¡°We had to wait until nightfall,¡± Reviled said, ¡°But this wouldn¡¯t have happened if you¡¯d stay out of trouble.¡±

    Meridith regained her composure, ¡°I had to get your attention somehow,¡± she said with a smile.

    ¡°So it¡¯s our fault,¡± Reviled said with a hissing laugh. It approached Delilah.

    ¡°By the Virtues, what are you!¡± She said.

    Reviled grabbed Delilah by the face, ¡°How dare you hurt her!¡± Meridith¡¯s smile grew as the tongue pierced Delilah¡¯s skull. Reviled turned back to Meridith, ¡°You should be more careful.¡± it said looking her over.

    ¡°Thanks for saving me again,¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°We¡¯ll always come for you,¡± it said, ¡°Now, what do we do with her?¡± It turned to the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman. She was staring in absolute terror, unable to move. ¡°We should devour her too.¡± It moved towards her.

    Meridith stepped in front of the young woman, ¡°Stop it!¡± she said glaring at it, ¡°You¡¯re scaring her,¡± Reviled held her stare, but she wouldn¡¯t look away.

    Reviled leaned close to the point that their faces were almost touching, ¡°That fire in your eyes...we like it,¡± it said. Meridith blushed at the compliment and looked away, but Reviled gently pushed her head up. ¡°Two days Meridith,¡± it said, ¡°If you cannot give us a reason in that time then we will devour her. And just to make certain we can find her,¡± Reviled stepped past Meridith and placed it hand on the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman¡¯s thigh. She screamed in pain as the new slave crest was seared into her skin. ¡°Remember, two days.¡± Reviled said disappearing into the shadows.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here,¡± Meridith said to the young woman, ¡°You can stay with me for now.¡±

    ¡°T-thank you,¡±

    <hr>

    It was midnight by the time Meridith pushed her door open. She lit up a few lamps to light up the room. She walked over to the small kitchen pulling out a bottle of wine.

    ¡°Want a drink?¡± Meridith said. The young woman nodded nervously. ¡°You can take a seat sweetie.¡± She took a seat and Meridith placed a mug in front of her. Meridith poured a generous amount into each glass and slouched into a chair. ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±

    The woman sipped and fingered her cup. ¡°Hykaru Mina. Mina is my given name,¡± she said eyeing Meridith nervously, ¡°What was that¡­thing?¡±

    Meridith sighed heavily, ¡°His name is Reviled Legion,¡± she said, ¡°All I can say is that he¡¯s a monster.¡±

    ¡°And the part about devouring me?¡±

    Meridith nodded, ¡°He always keeps his promises,¡± she said with a chuckle, ¡°Ironically, that¡¯s one of his good traits.¡± She sat up looking at the woman, ¡°So we should find a reason for him not to devour you. Tell me about yourself. What are you doing all the way from the islands?¡±

    Mina stared into her cup, ¡°Pirates attacked my village,¡± she said, ¡°They kidnapped everyone they could get their hands on and brought us to the continent. I was with the slavers for more than a year until they sold me to Delilah.¡±

    ¡°But Jericho is so far away from the western sea,¡± Meridith said, ¡°No one tried to buy you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a onomori¡­songstress I think is the word you would use,¡± she said, ¡°I have a unique talent to cast enchantments through singing, so I used it to avoid being sold, but I was the last of my people when the slavers came to Jericho.¡±

    ¡°So, you can cast magic by singing? That could be useful,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Anything else?¡±

    ¡°Not really,¡± Mina said, ¡°I have household skills, cleaning, cooking, and sewing, but that¡¯s about it. I¡¯m not like my brother who¡¯s a skilled warrior.¡±

    ¡°You have a brother?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Mina said with a sad smile, ¡°He was a gomuron, a knight, to our lord, but he abandoned his responsibilities to save me. He was captured and now he makes his master money as a gladiator.¡±

    That peeked Meridith¡¯s interest, ¡°Really?¡± she said, ¡°Would he join us?¡±

    ¡°I think so,¡± she said shrugging her shoulders, ¡°He can¡¯t go home. Abandoning one¡¯s duty is highly shameful to my people, and the only way he can redeem himself is by taking his own life. He would also feel indebted to you too, since you saved me.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Meridith said with a smile, ¡°We have our proposal.¡±

 Heist pt. 1

    ¡°Do we need to go to Reviled?¡± Mina said, clinging to Meridith. A rat dashed out of the shadow, startling her.

    ¡°Better we go to him than he to us,¡± Meridith said. She placed a comforting hand on Mina¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll give you some advice about Reviled,¡± Meridith gently took Mina¡¯s hand as she followed the familiar, ¡°He¡¯ll expect you to answer for yourself to test your resolve, but don¡¯t worry. If you show a little courage, then he¡¯ll respect even if you¡¯re afraid.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡±

    Meridith gave Mina a warm smile. Mina looked incredibly fragile. Meridith let the girl wear one of her dresses. A high collared, long sleeve dress that left little skin exposed. Meridith couldn¡¯t blame her. It was only the second day since Mina was freed from Delilah, but the poor girl couldn¡¯t stop looking over her shoulder or rubbing at her slave crest. Dark circles hung around her eyes. Mina hadn¡¯t slept at all last night due to her nightmares. Meridith would need to find a way to help her. The walls of Skivret¡¯s camp appeared out of the darkness.

    ¡°It¡¯s Meridth, open up!¡± she said.

    The walls opened to show Blegt standing guard, ¡°Evening ma¡¯am,¡± he said with a nod. His eyes darted to quickly between Meridith and Mina and gave a toothy smile, ¡°The monster too.¡±

    ¡°Pardon,¡±

    ¡°Nothing ma¡¯am,¡± Blegt said with a chuckle, ¡°Master Reviled and the prince are with the tinkerer in the really big tent.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Blegt,¡± Meridith said with a smile.

    She headed to the large ragged green tent. The other wererats warmly greeted them with a bow. A group of four children ran up to them and circled them with loud boisterous cheers.

    ¡°Lady Meridith, welcome back!¡± the largest child said, ¡°What are ya¡¯ up to now?¡±

    ¡°Wanna¡¯ play?¡± a ragged one smiled showing a broken tooth.

    ¡°Who¡¯s she?¡± a spotted child stared in awe.

    ¡°So pretty!¡± a female holding a doll gave a shy smile.

    Meridith kneeled scratching each one behind the ears, ¡°I can¡¯t play right now,¡± she said, ¡°I need to go see master Reviled,¡± she pulled out four silver coins giving one to each, ¡°But maybe later we can play later.¡± The children stared in awe at the coin.

    An adult female wererat rushed up to them, ¡°Go on children!¡± she said shooing them, ¡°Lady Meridith is busy,¡± the children ran away admiring their new treasure. ¡°I¡¯m sorry milady,¡± she bowed.

    ¡°I enjoy it,¡± Meridith said smiling at the children, ¡°They¡¯re just so precious. I¡¯d better get to master Reviled.¡±

    ¡°Are they always kind to you?¡± Mina said watching the wererats.

    ¡°Not always, but they eventually opened up to me,¡± she said, ¡°But it¡¯s because I¡¯m more approachable than Reviled.¡±

    Meridith entered the tent. Reviled laid on a ragged mat with its chest plate off. Three rats, an elderly grey and two spotted black and white, sat next to it inspecting its internal components. Skivret sat at a table between Nimble and a white female on the other side of the tent. There was great tension between Nimble and the white rat, but Skivret seemed oblivious. Cappy sat in a corner reading a book.

    Meridith sat next to Nimble, ¡°What¡¯s wrong Nimble?¡± she said.

    Nimble quickly looked between Skivret and the white rat, ¡°Nothin¡¯s wrong,¡± she said grinding her teeth, ¡°But I heard you had some excitement.¡± She looked to Mina.

    Meridith sighed, ¡°That¡¯s one way to put it,¡± she turned to the white rat, ¡°You¡¯re new here, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes, lady Meridith,¡± the white rat said with a bow, ¡°My name is Preddie. I am prince Skivret¡¯s attendant. It is my honor to be of service to him.¡± Her words made Nimble¡¯s fur stand. ¡°If there¡¯s anything ya¡¯ need please feel free to ask.¡±

    ¡°I will,¡± she said picking up a pillow, ¡°Please excuse us.¡± She sat at Reviled¡¯s head with Mina next to her.

    ¡°I glad you¡¯re staying out of trouble,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle, ¡°I¡¯d hate to keep you waiting as they put us back together.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t need to get into trouble if you¡¯d pay attention to me,¡± Meridith said with a smirk.

    Reviled turned to Mina, ¡°So, Hykaru Mina, why should we not devour you?¡± it said.

    Mina turned away, ¡°I-,¡±

    ¡°Look at us when you talk,¡±

    Mina looked at Reviled with watery eyes, ¡°I¡­I can¡¯t give you a good reason,¡± she said, ¡°I can cast a few enchantments through songs, but I can support lady Meridith,¡± Meridith placed a hand on her shoulder, ¡°There¡¯s also my brother. He¡¯s a skilled warrior who¡¯s being held captive in the arena. I¡¯m certain he would serve you if he found out you rescued me.¡±

    ¡°Interesting,¡± Reviled said, ¡°So you want us to rescue your brother?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll be worth it,¡± Meridith said, ¡°You could use a capable bodyguard, especially in your current state,¡± Reviled laughed at her comment, ¡°But there is also another reason.¡±

    ¡°What would that be?¡±

    ¡°Betting on fights brings in a lot of money,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Enough to pay for the parts you need.¡±This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.

    Reviled¡¯s eyes dimmed in thought, ¡°Excellent points,¡± it said, ¡°Very well, Mina, we¡¯ll save your brother,¡± it turned to Meridith, ¡°When is the next tournament?¡±

    ¡°Four days,¡±

    ¡°Not a lot of time,¡± Reviled said turning to the table, ¡°Skivret, we¡¯ll need your help in this heist.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡±

    Meridith leaned over Reviled, ¡°I¡¯ll need all the gold you have,¡± she said.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Mina and I need to go shopping.¡±

    <hr>

    Meridith stared into the night. She caught a glimpse of her reflection every time the carriage passed a streetlamp. She caught Mina readjusting her robes in discomfort. She wore blue and white robes that revealed her shoulders and cleavage and held together by an embroidered blue and gold belt. Meridith understood the girl as she adjusted her own dress. Meridith¡¯s sleeveless red dress showed off a generous amount of cleavage with the low cut. She spent every last coin she had for this rescue.

    ¡°Why must we wear these?¡± Mina said playing with her mask.

    ¡°It¡¯s common for courtesans to wear these,¡± Meridith said, ¡°We¡¯re going to sneak in as a pair of courtesans looking for patrons.¡±

    ¡°But why aren¡¯t we sneaking in with Reviled?¡±

    Meridith took Mina¡¯s hand, ¡°We¡¯ll be more helpful keeping an eye on the patrons,¡± she said, ¡°We need to let Reviled know if we see anyone that could disrupt the plan. And we need you to convince your brother to join us.¡±

    Mina nodded, ¡°I get it now,¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Meridith said catching sight of a well-lit building, ¡°We¡¯re here.¡± She put on her mask.

    Meridith was the first to step out. The area outside of the arena was bustling with life. Most of the patrons belonged to the upper echelon of Jericho, and many courtesans stood off to the side trying to gather attention. Meridith scanned the crowd. She needed to find someone that could get them into a private box, that way she could keep an eye on the arena. She smiled when she recognized a pair of well-dressed men greeting a few patrons. Meridith took Mina¡¯s arm leading her to the men.

    ¡°If it isn¡¯t masters Gambill and Ellion,¡± Meridith said giving them a charming smile, ¡°How are you two doing this evening?¡±

    Both men returned her smile as their eyes wandered, ¡°We are doing quite well now that we¡¯ve been graced by two lovely ladies such as yourselves,¡± Ellion said taking her hand, ¡°But we would be better if you¡¯d tell us your names.¡±

    ¡°My apologies,¡± Meridith said with a husky laugh, ¡°My name¡¯s Meri and this is my sister Min.¡±

    ¡°We can see the resemblance,¡± Gambill said.

    Meridith gave a pout, ¡°I wanted to show my sister a good time, but I don¡¯t think that¡¯ll happen,¡± she said, ¡°I forgot our money.¡±

    ¡°No need to worry my dears,¡± Ellion said offering his arm, ¡°As the owners of the arena, my friend and I would love to accompany you both tonight. If you¡¯ll have us?¡±

    Meridith took Ellion¡¯s arm, ¡°We¡¯d be delighted to,¡± she said, ¡°Be sure to thank these kind men, sister.¡±

    ¡°T-thank you,¡± Mina said.

    ¡°It¡¯s our pleasure miss,¡± Gambill said patting her hand.

    The arena consisted of a several warehouses that were remodeled to house stands and boxes for the audience to look out onto the courtyard. Betting counters sat on the first floor of every warehouse with metal bars keeping the attendants separated from the crowds. There was a stone staircase with two guards going downstairs. Ellion and Gambill led them up two flights of stairs to a box with two maids standing by the door. Three men stood in the box. It was difficult for Meridith to keep the shock from her face.

    ¡°Bartholomew, Baron, I¡¯m glad you two could make it,¡± Ellion said shaking each of their hands.

    ¡°I grateful you invited us,¡± Bartholomew said.

    Gambill turned to the third man, ¡°Who¡¯s your guest?¡±

    ¡°This is Halligan,¡± Baron said, ¡°He served with Solomon in the war.¡±

    ¡°We appreciate your service,¡± Ellion said taking his hand, ¡°Feel free to order anything you want on us.¡±

    ¡°Can I get a pint?¡± Halligan said to servants. One of the servants bowed and left. ¡°Thanks for inviting me, Baron.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± Baron said. He turned to the women, ¡°And who are these beautify women?¡±

    ¡°Our dates,¡± A bell rang, ¡°We should get to our seats.¡± Ellion said.

    Meridith and Mina took their seats in between Gambill and Ellion. Another bell tolled.

    ¡°Welcome everyone!¡± an announcer stood in a box overlooking the arena with a wand to his throat projecting his voice, ¡°We have an exciting event for you all tonight. Five bouts with our great champion, three of them to the death.¡± Mina grabbed Meridith¡¯s hand. ¡°Give a warm welcome to our champion. He hails from the archipelago of wind and lavender. His blade makes the wind sing. He is Kogna!¡±

    Mina tightened her grip as a man stepped into the courtyard arena. He wore a ragged brown robe with the left side of his torso exposed. A single blade hung on his hip and a glove on his left hand. His filthy black hair hung around his shoulders.

    ¡°Three death matches?¡± Bartholomew said to Ellion, ¡°Isn¡¯t that reckless?¡±

    ¡°What can I say,¡± Ellion said with a chuckle, ¡°People ae drawn to tragedy, and they¡¯ll get it tonight. I really should thank Delilah for bringing him.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure she¡¯d thank you if she could,¡± Baron smirked.

    ¡°Let¡¯s introduce our first competitor,¡± the announcer said, ¡°A rookie member of the Black Horn guild, Obran!¡± A young man in cheap armor stepped into the arena. A great sword rested on his shoulder. ¡°The first to submit or be knocked out loses. Ready!¡± a bell rang, ¡°Fight!¡±

    Obran charged forward. Kogna slid his left foot back and grabbed the hilt of his sword. He took several deep breaths. On his last breath, he drew his with a vertical slash. A blast of wind swept across the arena and knocked the rookie onto the floor. Obran didn¡¯t get up.

    Halligan sat on the edge of his seat, ¡°What kind of magic is that?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not magic,¡± Mina said, ¡°The air slash is a technique that harnesses the Amu¡¯Ryjin¡¯s ability to control wind.¡±

    ¡°Such a shame!¡± the announcer said as two guards dragged Obran away. ¡°Get ready for our next match.¡±

    Gambill leaned over placing his hand on Mina¡¯s upper thigh, ¡°Would you like a drink?¡±

    Mina tried to stutter a reply but was unable to. Meridith slapped Gambill¡¯s hand away, ¡°Don¡¯t tease my sister.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t make these ladies uncomfortable Gambill,¡± Ellion said.

    The bell rang again, ¡°Time for our second bout,¡± the announcer¡¯s voice rang out, ¡°Welcome our newest fighter, Ixa!¡± A woman with coppery scaled skin and black revealing clothes stepped into the arena. She carried two serrated machetes.

    ¡°A Zymarrian?¡± Baron said nodding in approval, ¡°Must have cost a fortune to transport her from the desert.¡±

    ¡°The snake isn¡¯t the only thing we had imported from the eastern desert,¡± Gambill said.

    The bell tolled. The woman ran forward, and Kogna performed his air slash, but she slid under the attack. She closed the distance and struck with her dual machetes. Kogna deflected her attacks, but the speed of her attacks kept him from retaliating. The Zymarrian slipped under Kogna¡¯s attack. Her attack left a cut against Kogna¡¯s chest. Mina gasped when Kogna pulled back.

    Ellion¡¯s ring started glowing, ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me,¡± he said leaving the box.

    Meridith moved to sit next to Halligan, ¡°Excuse me,¡± she said leaning close, ¡°I need to step outside for a moment. Would you do me a favor and keep an eye on my sister?¡± She pressed against his arm. ¡°I don¡¯t want her to be uncomfortable.¡±

    Halligan blushed as he cleared his throat, ¡°Of course madam,¡±

    Meridith gently kissed his cheek, ¡°Thank you,¡± Meridith smirked as Halligan couldn¡¯t find the words. She stepped out of the box. ¡°Could you two get us an assortment of refreshments?¡± she asked the servants. Meridith waited until both were out of sight. ¡°Master Reviled,¡±

    The familiar appeared, ¡°What is it, Meridith?¡±

    ¡°Something¡¯s happened,¡± she said, ¡°One of the owners left when his ring started glowing.¡±

    ¡°That was us,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We didn¡¯t disarm all the alarm runes on the vault door.¡±

    ¡°You should also know that Kogna is in the arena,¡± Meridith said keeping an eye on the stairs, ¡°Also Solomon¡¯s apprentice is here too.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Keep an eye out for anything else.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡± Meridith said heading back inside.

 Heist pt.2

    ¡°I think the bosses lost their minds.¡± A pair of guards patrolled the passageways under the arena.

    ¡°And what gave you that impression?¡± the other guard said sarcastically. They came to the gate leading to the sewers. ¡°Check the gate.¡± The other guard tugged on the gate, and it stayed firmly in place. ¡°Do you think the snake will defeat the swordsman?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± a rat pounced on the guard stabbing him in the neck.

    The other guard drew his sword and tried to call for help, but a hand covered his mouth. A sharp pang pierced the back of his head. Both guards fell to the ground.

    ¡°Excellent work Nimble,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Thank you master,¡±

    Skivret led a group of wererats out of the sewers with Cappy waddling in after them. ¡°Drag these corpses into the sewers,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Nimble, start taking out the lanterns.¡± The rats went to work, and darkness overtook the corridor. The rats gathered around Reviled, ¡°We¡¯ll start with the vault,¡± it said, ¡°Follow us.¡±

    Reviled led the group down the halls. The rats took out every lantern to extend the darkness. They rounded a corner and saw a pair of guards standing in front of an iron door. Two lanterns hung at either side of the door brightly lighting up the surrounding area.

    ¡°Take out the lantern,¡± Reviled said.

    Nimble snuck up to the edge of the shadows and drew a sling. She loaded a pebble and shot it. The pebble shattered the lantern on their side of the door. Flaming oil splashed onto the nearby guard. The burned guard screamed in pain as the other guard stared in shock.

    ¡°Go,¡± Reviled said.

    The wererats charged forward. Both guards were swarmed and stabbed to death. Reviled stepped up to the door. Multiple glowing runes were carved into the frame of the iron door.

    ¡°Shiny,¡± Cappy said staring at door.

    Reviled opened the sack at its side and pulled out several books. ¡°Hold these,¡± it said hand three rats one book. Reviled flipped through each of the books, ¡°We know it¡¯s here,¡± it stopped on one page, ¡°There you are.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Cappy said, trying to see the page by jumping.

    Reviled drew onto the power of its magic core. Magic coursed through the four souls as Reviled used them to construct the spell. Silent dispel. Reviled slid its claw across the frame carving a line across each of the runes, killing the glow. Now to unlock the door. Reviled charged the magic core again to construct another spell. Skeleton key. Reviled pointed to the keyhole. Several loud crashes came from the other side of the door, but it didn¡¯t open.

    ¡°That¡¯s unfortunate,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Skivret said staring at the door.

    ¡°There must be protection runes on the vaults interior,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Our spell tripped them, locking it down.¡±

    Master Reviled.

    Reviled let his consciousness transfer to his familiar, ¡°What is it, Meridith?¡±

    Something¡¯s happened, she said, One of the owners left when his ring started glowing.

    ¡°That was us,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We didn¡¯t disarm all the alarm runes on the vault door.¡±

    You should also know that Kogna is in the arena, Meridith said, Also Solomon¡¯s apprentice is here too.

    ¡°Understood,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Keep an eye out for anything else.¡±

    Yes master.

    Reviled turned to the wererats, ¡°Skivret, takes these bodies back to the sewer, and take Cappy with you,¡± it said, ¡°Nimble, you along with five soldiers will stay here with us.¡± Reviled leaned down and started drawing runes on the ground.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Nimble said.

    ¡°We¡¯ll have company soon,¡± Reviled said finishing its task, ¡°We¡¯re creating an illusionary curtain so that we can ambush them. Now get behind the runes.¡±

    They waited. It felt like hours before they heard voices coming from the right side of the corridor. A well-dressed man leading five guards rushed towards the vault door.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the guards?¡± the man said looking around.

    One guard knelt, ¡°There¡¯s blood here,¡± he said, ¡°They¡¯re most likely dead. Should we check the rest of the facility?¡±

    ¡°After we check the vault.¡± The man said pulling out a key.

    Reviled charged forward when the vault door opened and pushed the man into the vault. Reviled drove its tongue into the back of the man¡¯s head. The wererats took advantage of the guards shock and ambushed them. Reviled stood and stared at the open vault.

    Several dozen large bags full of gold were neatly piled in one corner. Stacks of gold bars laid neatly along one wall. Reviled chuckled as it took in the wealth.

    ¡°Someone, get Skivret,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°How much do you want to take?¡± Nimble said staring at the gold.

    ¡°Ideally, everything,¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll take some time with twenty-five of us, especially with the gold bars,¡± Nimble said shaking her head.

    ¡°Good point,¡± Reviled walked over to the corpses and raised them as zombies. Skivret came into view by the time the zombies were raised. Reviled pointed to Skivret, ¡°You are to follow his orders.¡± It ordered the zombies. ¡°We¡¯re leaving the gold to you.¡±

    ¡°Grab one of those bags,¡± Skivret pointed to the gold. The zombies stumbled into the vault, ¡°You can count on me.¡±

    Reviled, turned and headed down the corridor.

    ¡°Wait for me!¡± Cappy said chasing after it.

    They walked down the empty corridors with the cheers from the crowd above reverberating through the stone. They passed an empty dining room with half eaten meals and a barracks with made beds. The corridor ended in a spacious open area with two empty cages and five large objects covered with sheets.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    ¡°Hello, anyone here?¡± Cappy said, trying to project her voice.

    ¡°Looks like we¡¯ve taken out all the guards down here,¡± Reviled said inspecting a table. There were cards and a small pile of coins on it, ¡°The rest must be upstairs.¡±

    An ornate sword in a red scabbard caught its attention. Reviled pushed the blade partially out with its thumb. It was a dark steel blade with a single edge. A crash came from the back of the room.

    ¡°Bad ant!¡±

    Reviled turned to see Cappy standing in front of the largest box. Angry hissing and clicking came from behind it and was joined by others. Reviled walked over and pulled off the sheet on the largest box. It laughed.

    The creature inside was eight feet tall and ten fit long with a red and black carapace shell. A head crest with three sharp prongs covered the three-foot-long antennae. The large insect stared at them with fiery red eyes. Reviled pulled off the other sheets to reveal four smaller ant creatures.

    ¡°Four elithan ants and their queen,¡± Reviled said, ¡°How fortunate.¡± The queen smashed against her cage clicking at them angrily. A stinger shot out of her mouth stopping inches from Reviled¡¯s face. ¡°Was this the inspiration for our design?¡±

    ¡°Bad ant, behave,¡± Cappy said trying to slap the creature.

    ¡°Compulsion magic will fix that,¡± Reviled drew upon its magic and pointed at the queen ant.

    A red spell circle appeared around the queen¡¯s neck and the creature shrieked in pain. Ephemeral chains linked the spell circle to Reviled¡¯s arm. The chains solidified for a moment completing the spell before disappearing. Reviled¡¯s mind linked with the elithan hive mind. Anger and fear struck Reviled¡¯s mind as it forced its collective consciousness to take control. The queen bowed its head.

    ¡°Good,¡± Reviled used magic to unlock the doors. The ants slowly exited their cages. ¡°There¡¯s someone I need you to bring to me,¡± it said transferring an image of Kogna to the ants, ¡°Don¡¯t kill him, understand.¡± A sense of acknowledgment washed over Reviled, ¡°Go.¡± The ants scurried up onto the roof trying to burrow through the stone.

    ¡°Look,¡± Reviled turned to see Cappy holding up a large transparent egg, ¡°Breakfast!¡± Cappy opened her mouth ready to eat the egg.

    ¡°No!¡± Reviled said, ¡°Don¡¯t eat that.¡±

    ¡°Why,¡±

    ¡°That egg is valuable,¡± Reviled said approaching Cappy, ¡°It¡¯s special¡­like you. We don¡¯t eat special thing, do we Capcap?¡±

    A large dumb smile appeared on Cappy¡¯s face, and she hugged the egg defensively, ¡°Special,¡±

    Reviled petted Cappy, ¡°Yes,¡± it said, ¡°You must protect that egg.¡±

    ¡°Okay!¡±

    <hr>

    Bartholomew watched the fight below. It was impressive. The Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman fought with care and consideration. Each strike calculated and deliberate. While the Zymarrian snake woman fought wild and furious. She never let the swordsman have a moment to rest, and her fluid, agile movements made attacking her difficult. The crowd erupted into cheers each time blood was drawn. Not all were focused on the fight.

    Gambill sat next to him dejected. A couple of seats away Halligan sat sandwiched between the two beautiful women. Both pressed tightly against his arms. Bartholomew couldn¡¯t help but smile at the boy¡¯s redden face. Halligan swallowed hard as the woman in red teased his ear.

    ¡°I¡¯m a bit jealous,¡± Batholomew said.

    ¡°How do you think I feel,¡± Gambill said with a heavy sigh.

    ¡°You two should be ashamed of yourselves,¡± Baron said eying up the women, ¡°Those two are young enough to be your daughters.

    Bartholomew laughed, ¡°But they aren¡¯t,¡±

    ¡°Still, I feel like I know the one in red,¡± Baron said, ¡°I don¡¯t know why.¡±

    A rumble came from the arena. The two fighters stared at the ground with their weapons ready. The ground underneath the Zymarrian woman gave way as a large ant broken through the ground. The woman was caught in the ant¡¯s pincers. She screamed in pain as she tried to swing at the monster, but the ant tightened its grip, cutting her in half. Four more ants burrowed through the floor. Bartholomew¡¯s eyes fell onto the large one charging towards the swordsman.

    Bartholomew turned to Gambill, ¡°What are elithan ants doing here?¡± he said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Ellion and I¡­thought they¡¯d make a great addition,¡± Gambill said.

    ¡°No!¡±

    Bartholomew turned to see the ants gathering around the swordsman. He dodged the first attack but before he could retaliate another charged forward. The ants were working together pushing the swordsman towards the closest hole. One ant drove its pincers into the ground forcing the swordsman to jump out of the way, but the queen charged pushing him into the hole. The ants released a unified shriek as they turned to the guards gathering in the arena.

    ¡°I¡¯m going down there,¡± Halligan said rushing to the stairs, ¡°Where can I get a sword?¡±

    ¡°One of the guards can get you one,¡± Gambill said staring at the arena in horror.

    One guard screamed in pain as the queen stung him. He laid there for a few seconds before getting to his feet. The stung guard started attacking the other guards.

    ¡°We need to get out of here!¡± Baron said pulling on his father.

    ¡°The girls,¡± Bartholomew said looking around the box, but the women were nowhere to be seen.

    ¡°I-I need to find Ellion,¡± Gambill said rushing out of the room.

    Bartholomew stared at the arena for the last time before turning to flee.

    <hr>

    Kogna stared at the mechanical monster standing in front of him. He had to ignore the dancing mushroom in corner, but his eyes did fall onto the sheathed sword in the monster¡¯s hand.

    ¡°You must be Kogna,¡± the monster said with a chuckle.

    ¡°How do you know my name?¡± Kogna said, inching his way to the doorway.

    ¡°Your sister,¡±

    Kogna stopped, ¡°Where¡¯s Mina?¡± he said with a threatening growl.

    ¡°She¡¯s safe,¡± the monster turned away, ¡°In fact, she¡¯ll be here shortly.¡±

    The monster approached. Kogna shifted his weight, ready to strike once the monster was within reach, but it stopped and held out the sword in its hand.

    ¡°We think this sword suits you better,¡± it said.

    ¡°It¡¯s my sword to begin with,¡± Kogna said reaching out to take it, ¡°Take me to my sister. For your sake, I hope she¡¯s unharmed.¡±

    ¡°Ask her yourself,¡±

    ¡°Kogna!¡± Someone pressed up against him.

    Kogna recognized his sister¡¯s voice and turned to look at her. Mina buried her face into his chest and squeezed as tightly as she could. He wrapped his arm around his sister.

    ¡°Mina, how are you?¡± Kogna said looking his sister over, ¡°This monster didn¡¯t hurt you?¡±

    Mina cried into his chest, ¡°No, it didn¡¯t hurt me,¡± she said, ¡°It saved me from Delilah. That awful woman who¡­¡±

    ¡°We can talk about this later,¡± Kogna said rubbing her back, ¡°I take it you have a plan to get out of here?¡±

    ¡°Follow us,¡± the monster took the lead with a woman in red walking in step.

    ¡°Wait for me!¡± the mushroom called trying to keep up. Mina picked up the mushroom, ¡°Thank you,¡± it said snuggling between Mina¡¯s bosoms.

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome,¡± Mina said petting the mushroom¡¯s cap. The mushroom soon fell to sleep.

    ¡°Stop!¡± Gambill stood in front of them with a handful of guards. His eyes fell on Reviled, ¡°What kind of monstrosity are you?¡± Kogna stepped forward drawing his sword. Gambill lifted his hand and the ring on his middle finger glowed, ¡°Drop your sword.¡±

    Kogna dropped his sword and sneered in pain. He cradled his left against his body as he stared daggers at Gambill. Kogna pulled off the glove revealing the slave crest underneath.

    ¡°Please, Reviled, do something,¡± Mina cried.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have time for this,¡± Reviled said forcefully grabbing Kogna¡¯s left hand. Kogna screamed in pain as searing heat burned the back of his hand. Kogna pulled his hand away and stared at the new crest marking the back of his hand. ¡°Are you going to sit there or kill them?¡± it said.

    Kogna got to his feet and sheathed his sword. ¡°Fine,¡± he said taking a stance.

    ¡°Stop them!¡± Gambill said pushing the guards forward.

    Kogna took a deep breath. Slowly, he released the breath from his mouth. Time slowed down. With each breath, Kogna could feel the air pressure change around him. It became dense like swimming through water. Finally, Kogna slid his left foot back and condensed the air around his blade like he had done many times before. Kogna slashed at the air. The wind stuck out and flew through the corridor. It cut through the guards and Gambill with ease and their bodies fell to the ground cut in half.

    ¡°Impressive,¡± the monster cackled stepping past the bodies.

    The monster, Reviled, continued to lead them down the corridor until they came to an open vault. A brown wererat stood guard and waved them over.

    ¡°The last of the treasure is headed to the wagons,¡± the rat said gesturing to an empty vault. ¡°We¡¯re ready to leave when you are.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Reviled said moving past the wererat, ¡°Time to go home everyone.¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan slammed his blade into the head of the elithan queen. The monster let out a last cry before falling to the ground. Halligan looked at the carnage around him. All the mercenary guards lay dead on the arena floor. Thankfully, the city guard quickly came to help with the monsters. Halligan left the cleanup to them.

    ¡°There are more bodies downstairs!¡±

    Halligan rushed downstairs. The corpses here were cut apart with blades, and two had holes in their heads. He came to the empty vault.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Halligan said, ¡°How could I let this happen?¡±

    He headed back upstairs and left the arena. The crowd swarmed him. Men shook his hands, and women hugged him. Some women kissed him on the cheek.

    ¡°Sir,¡± a guard with an ornate badge approached, ¡°Thank you for taking care of those monsters.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome, captain,¡± Halligan said trying to force a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯ll let the duke know of what you did today,¡± the captain said, ¡°You are a hero!¡±

    The crowd cheered louder at the proclamation. Halligan did his best to smile and wave, but regret clung to the back of his mind.

 The Amazing Capcap

    The amazing Capcap sat on her plushy green throne, happily eating on a mushroom. It was tangy, sweet, and left a tingling sensation on her tongue. She hummed in delight.

    ¡°Capcap!¡± a little white mouse with red eyes ran into the tent. Tears constantly ran down his face.

    ¡°What is it Sad Mouse guy?¡± Cappy said.

    ¡°The Big Meanie is under attack,¡± Sad Mouse said pulling on his ears, ¡°He needs your help!¡±

    Capcap jumped to her feet with her hands on her sides, ¡°I understand Sad Pathetic Mouse guy,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯m coming Big Meanie.¡± Capcap jumped off her chair and ran out of the tent.

    Capcap zoomed through the dark tunnels of the sewers. Standing rats stood on the other side of the tunnel cheering her on.

    A pretty lady with red hair waved a colorful cloth, ¡°You can do it Capcap!¡± she said.

    ¡°You¡¯re the best!¡± a scaredy looking girl with black hair cried into her sleeve.

    A tailless brown rat jumped up and down, ¡°Go kick their butts!¡±

    Capcap smiled and gave the crowd a thumbs up, and they cheered louder. She sped up. The shifting tunnels blurred past until light appeared at the end of the tunnel. The Big Meanie crawled along the floor with his face broken. Three humans stood over him.

    Shiny Golden man lowered his pointy axe, ¡°This is the end Big Meanie,¡± he said.

    ¡°Kill him!¡± Angry Glowing Woman said.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!

    Big Meanie turned back to them, ¡°The amazing Capcap will save us,¡±

    Stupid Man with red hair laughed, ¡°Then we¡¯ll defeat her too,¡±

    Capcap jumped and flew. She twisted and kicked Stupid Man in the face. He flew down the tunnel and hit the wall, leaving an indent in it. Capcap landed in front of Big Meanie.

    Capcap stood up with her fist to the air, ¡°Leave Big Meanie alone!¡± she said.

    ¡°You won¡¯t win,¡± Shiny man said thrusting his axe.

    Capcap jumped and landed onto the axe¡¯s shaft. She ran up the pole and flipped over the shiny man. Capcap fell towards the Angry Woman.

    ¡°Deadly weapons!¡± Capcap said readying her fist.

    Lightning crackled around Capcap¡¯s fist, and she slammed it into the Angry Woman¡¯s shield. The wood splintered and broke, and the force threw the woman onto the stupid man. Capcap dropped and rolled, dodging the Shiny Man¡¯s attack. She got to her feet and jumped towards him. The Shiny Man brought his axe up to block her, but Capcap grabbed onto the shaft and kicked him in the face. Capcap landed on her feet and took a deep breath. She ran forward and jumped towards the Shiny Man¡¯s chest.

    ¡°Fear the fungi!¡± Capcap slammed both of her palms into the Shiny Man¡¯s chest.

    The Shiny Man flew down the tunnel and slid across the stone floor. The Shiny Man groaned and got to his feet.

    ¡°She¡¯s too powerful,¡± he said, ¡°Run away!¡± Shiny Man¡¯s friends stumbled to their feet and followed him down the tunnel.

    Capcap took a deep breath and pressed her hands together. She turned to see Big Meanie get to his feet.

    ¡°You¡¯re amazing Capcap,¡± Big Meanie said petting her, ¡°Truly magnificent.¡±

    Pretty lady stepped into view, ¡°You¡¯re a hero!¡±

    Sad, Pathetic, Depressing Mouse guy crawled towards her, ¡°Nothing is greater than you!¡±

    ¡°Cheers for the hero!¡± Tailless Mouse and Scaredy Girl cried.

    They all reached out and threw Capcap into the air, ¡°Capcap!¡±

    Capcap!

    ¡°Capcap!¡±

    Cappy!

    ¡°Capcap!¡±

    Wake up, fungus!

    Cappy landed on her face. She slowly sat up with drool seeping down her mouth. Big Meanie stared down at her with its broken face and missing arm.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Cappy said trying to stand, ¡°I¡¯ll save you, Big Meanie.¡± She fell onto her butt.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have time for this,¡± Big Meanie said picking her up by the cap, ¡°We need to meet up with Meridith.¡±

    ¡°Amazing Capcap, away!¡± Cappy said, throwing her fist up.

 Hostile Takeover pt.1

    Reviled admired the gold glistening in the lamplight. Thirty-two gold bars were stacked neatly next to twenty large bags holding gold coins. It took the rest of the night to get the wagons back to the camp. Thankfully, it gave the camp enough time to build a new tent to store the amassed treasures.

    ¡°It¡¯s pretty,¡± Meridith said looking at the gold, ¡°Are you going to hoard it like a miser?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle, ¡°We start planning for the next steps.¡± Reviled turned and sat on the floor gesturing for everyone to sit. They all sat down with Cappy hidden behind the larva egg.

    ¡°What¡¯s the next step?¡± Mina said, looking between Reviled and Meridith.

    ¡°We start encroaching on Decker¡¯s territory,¡± Reviled said looking at each of them, ¡°Decker¡¯s wealth mainly comes from the criminal element lurking within Jericho. He¡¯s pretty much untouchable.¡±

    Meridith turned to the group, ¡°We learned that the hard way when we tried to hire the thieves guild,¡± she said, ¡°It¡¯s why Reviled decided to subjugate the wererats instead.¡±

    ¡°The wererats easily outnumber Decker¡¯s thugs,¡± Reviled said turning to Skivret, ¡°Your excellent foot soldiers in our war, once properly outfitted.¡±

    ¡°So, we¡¯re expendable,¡± Skivret said with a sad laugh.

    ¡°No, your kind are vital to our plans,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We must be careful when presenting ourselves to the people of Jericho. One wrong move, and we¡¯ll have every high-ranking adventurer and soldier hunting us down.¡±

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t they?¡± Kogna said glaring at Reviled.

    ¡°There¡¯s evidence linking Decker to us,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Our existence would lead to Decker¡¯s demise.¡±

    Kogna turned to Meridith, ¡°But why haven¡¯t you betrayed him?¡±

    ¡°If he dies, then so does my love,¡± Meridith said giving Kogna a determined stare.

    ¡°We devoured her lover,¡± Reviled said. Mina stared in shock, ¡°If we die then his soul is destroyed. No afterlife. No resurrection. No reincarnation.¡±

    Kogna bowed, ¡°Forgive me, ma¡¯am,¡± he said. Meridith smiled and he turned back to Reviled. ¡°I will serve you in thanks for saving my sister and I,¡± he said, ¡°But I want you to send Mina back home.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m staying!¡± Mina said beating on her brother.

    ¡°That¡¯s not wise,¡± Reviled said staring back at him, ¡°She¡¯s safer here under our protection.¡±

    ¡°Kogna, I understand you want Mina safe,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But think about it. It¡¯s a long way back to the coast, and anything could happen. Bandits, pirates, even the undead, but if she¡¯s here then she has both you and Reviled to keep her safe.¡± She gave a sly smile, ¡°And trust me, Reviled hates it when people touch his things.¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°We¡¯re still find bits of Taern stuck in our gears,¡±

    Kogna stared at Mina, ¡°Fine,¡± he turned to Reviled, ¡°But if anything happens to my sister, I¡¯m coming for you,¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡±

    ¡°We should get back on track,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Since we¡¯re trying to compete against Bartholomew and Baron it would be smart for us to have a front business.¡±

    ¡°A¡­what?¡± Mina said.

    ¡°It¡¯s a business that can act as a front for our criminal activities,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Like Delilah¡¯s brothel, or the arena¡¯s smuggling ring.¡± She turned to Reviled, ¡°We should pick a business that plays to our strength.¡±

    ¡°What about an adventurer¡¯s guild?¡± Reviled said with a chuckle.

    Meridith sneered, ¡°I should slap you for that,¡± she said, ¡°But that won¡¯t work. Most cities will only allow one guild.¡± She tapped her chin in thought, then slide over to Reviled, ¡°How about a tavern?¡±

    ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±

    Meridith leaned in close, ¡°I really want a golden goose,¡± she said with devious smile.

    Reviled cackled, ¡°As you wish,¡±

    <hr>

    Oria sat at the bar in the thieves guild playing with her drink. She took over the guild when Taern disappeared five months ago, and the guild suffered greatly for it. Business practically dried up after the former boss botched the job for Decker, and many of their members left to become adventurers. The remaining members sat around with broken spirits.

    She to a swig of her drink and grimaced, ¡°Taste like piss,¡± she said pouring more. Rapid pounding came from the door leading into the tavern. ¡°Let ¡®em in,¡± she said to the guard.

    A wiry man pushed his way in, ¡°Boss, we got trouble!¡±

    ¡°Tell me something I don¡¯t know,¡±

    ¡°The arena was attacked tonight,¡± he said standing next to her.

    Oria scoffed, ¡°Who¡¯s stupid enough to attack the arena?¡± she said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t know, but they succeeded,¡± the man said biting his nails, ¡°They released a bunch of elithan ants, and robbed the arena treasury!¡± gasps filled the room.

    ¡°What!¡± she said dropping her glass, ¡°They robbed the treasury?¡±

    ¡°And released ants!¡±

    ¡°Forget about the fucking ants!¡± Oria said slapping him, ¡°The treasury was robbed which means everyone will come looking for us.¡±If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    ¡°What do we do?¡± another member said.

    Oria slammed her fist onto the bar, ¡°Dammit, we have to disband the guild,¡± she said, ¡°The guards will come looking for us-¡± a loud knock came from the sewer door. Another knock came in the rhythm of an old code. Oria signaled for everyone to draw their weapons, ¡°Open it,¡± she said when everyone was ready.

    The door creaked as the lock came undone and a strong gust of wind forced the door open. It destroyed the face of the man who unlocked. He lay on the ground with blood gurgling in his throat. A man in filthy brown robes stepped into the room with a hand on his sword taking in the room.

    ¡°You have a lot of¡­nerve coming¡­here,¡± Oria stared as two beautiful women followed with six skeleton soldiers protecting them. The men around her couldn¡¯t stop staring at the shorter woman, their eyes fixated on her exposed cleavage, but Oria turned to the woman she did recognize. ¡°What do you want?¡± she said.

    The woman in red ignored her, ¡°It¡¯s more run down than I remember,¡± she said pouting at the interior.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ignore me bitch!¡±

    The woman turned to Oria in distain, ¡°The only bitch here is you,¡± she said, ¡°Your guild is no longer needed as of today. Consider this your eviction notice.¡± Oria seethed at the woman¡¯s contempt smile. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, you all can still be of use to our master,¡± A sharp growl came from the door, and heavy footsteps echoed down beyond it. A monster stepped through the door, and despite missing one arm, the aura it produced caused her breath to quicken. Oria pushed herself against the bar, desperately wishing she were on the other side. She caught a few of her men eyeing the stairs. Both women stood to the side presenting the monster, ¡°I give you the new ruler of Jericho¡¯s underworld,¡± the red woman said, ¡°Reviled Legion.¡±

    The monster looked around, ¡°Unimpressive,¡± it said turning to the red woman, ¡°Are you sure you want this place, Meridith?¡±

    ¡°The land is what¡¯s important,¡± Meridith said, ¡°We can burn this place down then rebuild.¡±

    ¡°If you think that¡¯s best,¡± the monster turned to all of them, ¡°The rest of you are unimportant. Kill them.¡±

    Blood splattered on Oria¡¯s face. The group closest to the stairs were dead, cut in half by an unseen force. The Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman sheathed his blade. The group to her right drew their short swords to fight off the approaching skeletons, but the enclosed space worked against the thieves. One by one the rest members were killed. Their blood painted the stones red.

    Oria looked around frantically, I want to live! She couldn¡¯t see a way out. Tears welled up in eyes as she stared directly towards the monster. Dammit! She ran forward and threw herself at the monster¡¯s feet.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me!¡± Oria said, she was practically kissing the floor, ¡°I can be useful to you.¡± She screamed as the monster pulled her up by her blonde hair.

    ¡°How?¡±

    Oria quickly looked at the monster¡¯s companions, ¡°I have contacts all throughout Jericho,¡± she said, ¡°It¡¯ll help you compete with Decker!¡±

    The monster stared into her eyes for a long time, ¡°Very well, Oria,¡± it said. It knows my name! The monster released her, ¡°Strip,¡±

    Oria stared at the monster in horror, but she slowly got to her feet. Her hands wouldn¡¯t stop shaking and it made undoing the buttons of her vest difficult. She tossed her vest to the side and started undoing her belt. She kicked it away when it fell at her feet. Oria struggled with the laces on her leather pants, and eventually decided to squeeze out of them. Her hands tightly gripped the hem of her cropped shirt and she forced herself to pull it off. The cold air bit her exposed skin, and Oria wrapped an arm around herself. She didn¡¯t have the heart to finish undressing. Oria swallowed hard and looked at the others in the room.

    The swordsman stared at her, a cold, uninterested stare. The short woman looked away. Her face red in embarrassment. Then there was the red woman, Meridith. She gave Oria a smug smile, and it took every ounce of control for Oria not to cover her chest. The presence of the two women made her conscious of her breast size. She turned to the monster. It¡¯s piercing red eyes gave no hints to its thoughts.

    ¡°W-why am I¡­doing¡­this?¡± she asked.

    ¡°Because, we won¡¯t be fooled again,¡± it said. Oria hissed as Reviled¡¯s claws dug into her left breast. Searing heat radiated from the monster¡¯s claws causing Oria to scream in pain. She wanted to fall to her knees, but the monster wouldn¡¯t loosen its grip, so she had no choice but to hold onto the monster for support. ¡°Your guild betrayed us the last time we hired you,¡± Reviled said into her ear, ¡°Meridith suffered greatly because of that, so consider this your penance.¡±

    The pain dissipated, but Oria couldn¡¯t help but cry when she saw the slave crest branded over her left breast. She fell to her knees with her face to the ground and screamed into the stone. Her life was no longer hers. Slowly, the tears stopped and Oria pushed herself up.

    ¡°Feeling better?¡± the monster chuckled.

    ¡°No,¡±

    ¡°Understandable,¡± Reviled said. It looked towards the ceiling, ¡°The bartender is still here, kill him.¡± The blood rushed from Oria¡¯s face. ¡°Is there a problem?¡±

    Oria shook her head. She put her shirt back on and slipped a dagger into the strap of her thong. Oria unlocked the door and headed upstairs. Thankfully, the tavern closed a few hours ago so there was no one to see her. The bartender stood at the bar finishing up the cleaning.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on¡­downstairs?¡± The bartender turned and took in her appearance. ¡°So that explain the noise,¡± he said with a chuckle, ¡°Everyone¡¯s trying to work out some frustrations.¡± Oria nodded.

    ¡°Hey, Amon,¡± Oria said, ¡°Can I get something strong?¡±

    ¡°Sure boss,¡± Amon said reaching around pulling out a bottle from the bottom cupboard. He poured a generous amount into a glass, ¡°Here you-¡±

    Blood seeped from Amon¡¯s neck. Oria drove the dagger deeper into his neck. She stared at the floor. She couldn¡¯t stomach the sight of his hurt face. Tears slipped from her eyes as she imagined the betrayed thoughts going through Amon¡¯s mind. Oria let go of the dagger, and Amon fell to the floor.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­sorry,¡± Oria said, and she slammed the drink. The burning sensation had a salty aftertaste.

    Oria poured herself another drink, but she couldn¡¯t bring herself to drink it. She stood at the bar crying. An oppressive weight rested on her heart as she avoided Amon¡¯s gaze. She chugged the drink when the tears stopped and headed back downstairs.

    Most of the corpses were gone when Oria returned downstairs. The skeletons were taking the last of the bodies into the sewers. The rats will be well-fed for the next couple of weeks. Oria found her clothes sitting on the bar, neatly folded, even the string on her pants were undone. She slipped into her clothes and turned towards everyone.

    ¡°I-it¡¯s done,¡± she said.

    ¡°Good, give us your hand,¡± Reviled said. Oria held up her hand and watched as the monster conjured a rat in its own. The rat bit her finger, and she hissed in pain, ¡°Now we can stay in contact.¡± Reviled chuckled as the rat disappeared. ¡°We¡¯ll be leaving through the sewers. Lock the door behind us then burn down the tavern.¡±

    ¡°Yes, sir,¡±

    Meridith approached her with a polite smile, ¡°I look forward to working with you.¡±

    Oria smirked, ¡°I look forward to it,¡± she said with thick sarcasm, ¡°I can¡¯t wait to learn how to service a monster.¡±

    Meridith playfully patted Oria¡¯s cheek, ¡°Such a sharp tongue, just like Taern,¡± she said, ¡°Too bad he couldn¡¯t keep his in his mouth.¡± Oria¡¯s smile vanished, ¡°Good night.¡±

    Oria watched as they left and locked the door behind them. She walked up the stairs. Oria picked up a chair and slammed it down onto a table, breaking both pieces of furniture. She pulled out a firewood axe Amon kept stashed away and started swinging at everything she could find. She broke open barrels, tore chunks out of the bar, and even broke one of the support pillars. She even threw the whisky bottles at the walls. Oria picked up the last bottle of whisky and took a deep drink, then picked up a lit oil lantern and threw it down on the floor as she walked through the door.

    Oria felt the heat from the raging fire at her back, and she emptied the bottle in her hand. She laughed. Dark clouds covered up the morning sun with thunder echoing in the background. ¡°Damn gods have a sense of humor.¡± She cackled as she walked down the street.

 Hostile Takeover pt. 2

    Magister Cromwell sat at his desk looking over the multiple reports on his desk. He threw the papers down and rubbed the dark circles around his eyes. He rose and headed to the liquor cabinet, pouring a generous amount into the crystal tumbler.

    He drank the entire glass, ¡°By the Virtues, I can¡¯t handle this,¡± he said looking his desk, ¡°The arena incident, buildings catching fire, and all these damn murders,¡± He poured another glass, ¡°And the Duke¡¯s busy playing matchmaker with his youngest daughter and the hero.¡± A knock came from the door, ¡°Come in.¡±

    An attendant entered and bowed, ¡°My lord, there¡¯s a lady here to see you,¡± he said looking flustered.

    ¡°Does she have an appointment?¡±

    ¡°No sir,¡± the attendant said peeking out of the door, ¡°But she looks to be important, perhaps a noble from another province, or at least a noble¡¯s proxy.¡±

    Cromwell rubbed his eyes, ¡°Understood, show her in,¡±

    Cromwell gasped as a beautiful woman with red hair entered his office with her two attendants. The noblewoman wore a dark blue dress with puffy sleeves that hung off her shoulders showing her enticing collarbone and ample cleavage. A lacy black veil hung over the left side of her face pinned to her elaborate bun. The two attendants, both Amu¡¯Ryjin, wore red and black silk robes with a golden floral pattern and a dark green sash. The man stood tall with his left hand resting on the hilt of his sword tucked into the belt holding his puffy black pants. The woman attendant stood tall but with her head down, trying not to outshine her mistress. Cromwell couldn¡¯t help but notice her since she was just as beautiful, and her voluptuous form.

    Cromwell cleared his throat, ¡°I¡¯m magister Cromwell, and who do I have the honor of addressing?¡± he said kissing the lady¡¯s knuckles.

    The woman gave a charming giggle, ¡°My name is Meridith,¡± she said, ¡°And these are my attendants Hykaru Kogna, and his sister Mina.¡±

    ¡°And how may I be of service to you, lady Meridith?¡± Cromwell said gesturing to the two sofas facing each other.

    Meridith sat gracefully with her knees pointed to the desk, ¡°I¡¯m here on behalf of my master,¡± she said, ¡°He¡¯s looking to gain some influence in the city and wishes to open a business.¡±

    ¡°What business would he like to open?¡±

    ¡°My master is a¡­connoisseur of spirits, shall we say,¡± Meridith said, which got a chuckle from her two attendants, ¡°So he was hoping to open a tavern.¡±

    Cromwell rubbed his jaw, ¡°A tavern?¡± he said. We could use a new establishment since Delilah¡¯s tavern looks to be closing. ¡°I believe that¡¯s possible. Is there any spot you¡¯d like to set up?¡±

    ¡°Yes, there is,¡± Meridith said with a bright smile, ¡°There¡¯s a spot in the lower city that caught my master¡¯s attention.¡±

    ¡°The lower city!¡± Cromwell said, ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°Absolutely!¡± Meridith said, ¡°The lower city is full of opportunities, if you know where to look. And my master enjoys seizing these opportunities.¡±

    ¡°So, he¡¯s looking to revitalize the lower city?¡± he said. Meridith¡¯s smile brightened. ¡°That¡¯s quite the project. Does he have the capital.¡±

    ¡°He does,¡± Meridith said leaning closer, ¡°But you and I both know that it takes more than money to make such drastic changes, and so does my master. I can assure you; he¡¯s thinking long term.¡±

    Cromwell went to his desk to grab a map and laid it out onto the table in front of her, ¡°Where did he want to set up?¡±

    Meridith looked at the map for a few moments then tapped on a spot marked by an X, ¡°Right here.

    Cromwell cocked an eyebrow, ¡°There,¡± he said, ¡°You know there was a building there that burned down. Was your master responsible?¡±

    ¡°No,¡±

    Cromwell scratched his chin, ¡°Give me a few hours to have the documents drafted,¡± he said, ¡°Then we can discuss further on your master¡¯s plans.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I thought you would reject the offer?¡± Meridith said with a sly smile.

    ¡°I¡¯d be a fool to turn down such an offer,¡± Cromwell said, ¡°Especially if it can fill the city¡¯s coffers,¡± He gently shook Meridith¡¯s hand, ¡°I look forward to working with your master.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure he feels the same way,¡±

    Cromwell headed to the door, ¡°I¡¯ll have an attendant bring us some refreshments,¡± he said. He turned to the attendant, ¡°Go retrieve an administrator and have him bring a blank contract. Then run to the kitchen and bring our guest some tea and cakes.¡± The attendant bowed and ran off down the hall. Virtues, please let this go well.

    <hr>

    Three hours of negotiations led to this. ¡°So states the contract,¡± the administrator said, ¡°The city of Jericho hereby sales the land of 3321 Opular street in the lower district to the signee for the sum of seven thousand-five hundred gold,¡± Lady Meridith sipped on her tea, ¡°The signee will have full control to build upon the land and the section of sewers beneath for any establishment of their choosing. The signee will hereby be exempt from taxes for the remainder of the year and shall pay seventy-five gold in taxes at the start of the year. Should the signee fail to uphold the contract, the city will regain control of the land and all assets on it and pay a fine of five thousand gold. Should the city fail to uphold the contract, the signee shall be reimbursed for the seven thousand-five hundred gold along with all other accrued costs.¡±

    ¡°Is this acceptable, my lady?¡± Cromwell said trying to control his smile.

    Meridith set down her cup and dabbed her lips, ¡°I suppose so,¡± she said, ¡°Would it be alright if my master paid in gold bars? He¡¯d feel uncomfortable with paying in coins.¡±

    ¡°The city will gladly accept the payment,¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Meridith said signing the contract and its copy.

    Cromwell read the signature, ¡°RL?¡±

    ¡°My master likes his privacy,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I hope you understand.¡±

    ¡°I understand completely,¡± Cromwell said standing and kissing Meridith¡¯s knuckles, ¡°Until we meet again.¡±

    ¡°I look forward to it,¡± Meridith said with a smile talking the contract, ¡°Kogna will bring the payment this evening.¡±Stolen story; please report.

    ¡°Please let your master know, that his Grace appreciates his support,¡± Cromwell said with a large smile. Meridith nodded and stepped out of the room.

    ¡°Sir, are you sure about this?¡± the administrator said, ¡°This is¡­an unusual contract.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Cromwell said turning to his desk, ¡°We need to recuperate our loses spent on repairing the damage from the ants, and not to mention constant drain from the war,¡± Cromwell rubbed his temples, ¡°This is a cow we need to milk for everything its worth.¡±

    <hr>

    Meridith stepped out of the castle with a victorious smile. She handed the scroll over to Kogna, ¡°Can you please hold onto this for me?¡± she said.

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am,¡± Kogna said pocketing the scroll into his robe.

    ¡°Did everything goes as planned?¡± Mina said looking worried.

    ¡°It went pretty well,¡± Meridith said heading down the steps, ¡°The initial cost of the land, and subsequent taxes are higher than I wanted,¡± she chuckled, ¡°But getting the tax exemption for the next seven months should cover the costs. Not to mention the penalties against the city should they break the contract.¡±

    ¡°Where¡¯d you learn your speech craft?¡± Kogna said keeping watch on the crowd.

    ¡°The Black Horn Guild,¡± she said turning into the upper city¡¯s shopping district, ¡°Master Aberny made sure all the receptionists could negotiate contracts with paying clients. I really should visit the guild some time.¡±

    ¡°Do you think the master will approve the contract?¡± Mina said looking through the shop windows.

    ¡°He¡¯ll understand,¡± Meridith said stopping in front of a window. There was a mannequin showcasing a sleeveless, rose-colored dress with a high collar. Meridith pulled Mina in front of her, ¡°You would look lovely in this,¡± she said checking out Mina¡¯s reflection.

    ¡°N-no, I don¡¯t think so,¡±

    ¡°Of course, you would,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Right Kogna?¡± Kogna shrugged when he looked at the dress. Meridith sighed, ¡°You¡¯re no help.¡±

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we return to the master?¡± Kogna said.

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Meridith said heading back down the street. ¡°You may be bringing the payment by yourself Kogna,¡± she said, ¡°I hate to say it, but the only other person skilled enough to act as a guard is that woman.¡± Kogna chuckled, ¡°Something funny?¡±

    ¡°No ma¡¯am,¡± he said.

    ¡°Good,¡± Meridith turned to Mina, ¡°You shou-¡­Mina?¡± Mina wasn¡¯t there. Mina stared at a shop a few feet behind them. ¡°You need to stay with us Mina,¡± she said looking at the window. Multiple instruments were showcased upfront, ¡°Did something catch your eye?¡±

    Mina pointed to one of the larger instruments. It was the same type of instrument that Mina played when she served at Delilah¡¯s tavern, but this one was made from an exquisite redwood inlaid with gold and silver. Flower petals painted in a myriad of colors decorated the body. The glare from the window made it look like the instrument was glowing.

    ¡°I¡¯d never thought I¡¯d see a rymujin again,¡± Kogna said staring at it in awe.

    ¡°Is this from your home?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Mina said barely blinking.

    ¡°It¡¯s an important moment for an onomori to acquire her rymujin,¡± Kogna whispered into Meridith¡¯s ear, ¡°It means that her talents have been acknowledged.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Meridith said looking at the bright-eyed girl. Meridith stepped into the shop breaking Mina from her trance.

    The shop was quite homey. Each wall neatly organized between string, woodwind, and brass instruments. Meridith noticed that each of the instruments were branded with the shop¡¯s logo.

    An elderly gentleman stepped out of the backroom, ¡°Welcome madam, how may I be of service?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like to purchase the Amu¡¯Ryjin instrument in the window,¡± Meridith said pulling out her coin purse.

    Mina tugged on her sleeve, ¡°Please don¡¯t lady¡­Meridith,¡± her eyes were transfixed on the instrument when the shop owner brought over the instrument.

    The shop owner gently slid the instrument into a masterfully made leather case, ¡°That will be two hundred gold coins,¡± he said keeping his thumbs over the latches.

    Mina gawked at the price, ¡°It¡¯s too much!¡± she said, ¡°Please!¡±

    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Meridith said brushing the hair out of Mina¡¯s face. She placed two platinum coins on the counter.

    The man smiled flicking down the latches, ¡°Thank you for your patronage,¡± he said taking the coins and spinning the case around.

    Meridith turned to Mina, ¡°Take it,¡± she said.

    Mina gently took the case and held it close. Meridith smiled at her and headed out the down.

    ¡°Please come again!¡±

    Mina shook with tears in her eyes, ¡°A-are you sure?¡± she said.

    ¡°Of course, sweetie,¡± Meridith said wiping away her tears.

    ¡°But¡­what if master gets mad?¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll smash the other side of his face,¡± Meridith said.

    Kogna chuckled, ¡°I¡¯d love to see that,¡±

    <hr>

    Mina held onto the instrument tightly. The scarf over her face covered the smile that wouldn¡¯t go away. Yet, fear still hung at the back of her mind. Meridith spent a lot of money on her, money that the master could have spent on more important things, and that terrified her.

    Reviled unnerved Mina. She didn¡¯t want the monster to take out its anger on Meridith for wasting money on her. At most, she hoped it would tell her to take it back for a refund.

    ¡°Welcome back,¡± Blegt bowed to them as they stepped into the camp.

    ¡°Has she arrived?¡± Meridith said scanning the camp.

    ¡°No ma¡¯am,¡± Blegt said, ¡°But I¡¯ll let ya¡¯ know when I see the blonde-haired bitch.¡±

    Meridith smiled, ¡°Thank you,¡±

    Mina looked at Meridith, ¡°Are you going to keep calling her that?¡±

    ¡°She needs to learn her place Mina,¡± Meridith said with a sneer.

    Meridith stepped into Skivret¡¯s tent. Mina stopped in her tracks when she saw Reviled sitting at the table looking at a piece of parchment. Its finger digging a hole into the wood. Mina decided to sit next to Cappy, who was still holding onto the ant egg.

    Meridith sat next to Reviled, ¡°I¡¯m back master,¡± she said. Kogna sat next to her.

    ¡°How did the negotiation go?¡± Reviled said still looking at the paper.

    ¡°Fairly well,¡± Meridith said taking the contract from Kogna and passed it to Reviled. ¡°I was able to get us a tax exemption for the rest of the year alongside a hefty penalty against the city should they try to interfere.¡±

    Reviled unfurled the contract and read it, ¡°Looks like our costs are high as well,¡±

    ¡°I failed on that part,¡± Meridith said bowing, ¡°The magister clearly wanted to get as much money out of us as possible. Please forgive me.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s fine,¡± Reviled said handing the contract back. It looked between Meridith and Kogna, then turned to look at Mina, ¡°What are you doing over there?¡±

    ¡°I-I wanted to stay out of the way,¡± Mina said hiding behind her instrument.

    ¡°And what do you have there?¡±

    Mina tightened her grip. She tried to speak but her voice wouldn¡¯t come out.

    ¡°It¡¯s her new instrument,¡± Meridith said, ¡°We found it in the shopping district on our way back.¡±

    ¡°How much was it?¡±

    Tears started running down Mina¡¯s face.

    ¡°Two hundred gold.¡±

    Mina couldn¡¯t stop shaking. Her breath was caught in her throat when she heard Reviled get up from the table. He¡¯s going to take it. It¡¯s footstep stopped and she could feel it staring down at her. He¡¯s going to take it!

    ¡°Mina,¡± Reviled said softly causing her to look up. Mina couldn¡¯t keep her eyes off its hand when it reached out to her. It gently brushed her hair, ¡°Would you please sing for us?¡±

    ¡°What,¡± Her voice came out hoarse.

    ¡°Meridith says you have such a lovely voice,¡± Reviled said caressing her hair, ¡°We¡¯re a little jealous we haven¡¯t heard it yet. Please perform.¡±

    ¡°Y-you¡¯re not mad?¡± Mina said staring up at it, ¡°She spent so much money. Money that could have been spent on something important!¡±

    ¡°You are important,¡±

    Mina started crying, ¡°I¡¯ll play.¡±

    After calming down, Mina took out the rymujin and tuned the strings. The others pulled their pillows over to watch her. What should I play? She looked at everyone. They were smiling at her, happy. She even noticed Cappy rocking in her seat with her hands and feet peeking out of the side of the egg. That¡¯s it.

    Mina started playing two high quarter notes consecutively. Kogna recognized the song and nodded in approval. Her playing shifted to add a deep, low half note at the end of the chord. The air shifted with a warm, gentle breeze that had a sweet, earthy smell. After the third chord, Mina started singing. She sang in a light, cheerful tone. This was one of her favorite songs.

    Mina picked up the tempo and added more high notes making the song sound light and airy. Meridith started clapping along, and Cappy danced with the egg. Mina could see the wererats gathering around the tent¡¯s entrance. The song was coming to an end, so Mina decided to show off a bit. She increased the speed again and added a few complex chords to make a strong impact. Finally, she stopped and ended the song by slowly plucking the two high notes the song started with.

    Quite hung over the tent, then the crowd outside started cheering. Mina couldn¡¯t help but smile.

    Reviled sat next to Mina and embraced her, ¡°Truly beautiful,¡± it said petting her. Mina smiled but flinched when Reviled¡¯s tongue slithered out and started caressing her cheek. ¡°You¡¯re singing was lovely, Mina.¡± It¡¯s tongue gently slid down to her jaw then back up to her cheek. This must be how he shows affection.

    A commotion came from the tent as one of the rat children rushed in, ¡°Lady Meridith,¡± he said, ¡°Blegt said the bitch is here.¡±

    Meridith groaned, ¡°It¡¯s about time,¡± she said standing up. ¡°Thank you for the song, Mina,¡± She left the tent. Mina couldn¡¯t stop herself from crying again.

 Hostile Takeover pt. 3

    Oria chugged the large pint down to the last drop. With a satisfied sigh, she slammed the mug down and waved the bartender down for another. Oria grabbed a handful of the roasted nuts sitting next to her and checked out the rundown tavern around her. It reminded her of Amom¡¯s tavern.

    The wooden floors creaked from age and neglect. The tables unbalanced with worn down chairs that rocked uncomfortably. The broken windows that let in the cold draft that caused goosebumps, and then, there were the useless bums that wasted every coin to keep a perpetual buzz. Many looked down on such places, but she felt at home here.

    It was early evening. The workers should be here soon alongside the man she¡¯s waiting for. The bartender slapped down another mug.

    ¡°Can I get one too,¡± Someone sat onto the stool next to her, ¡°Been a long time Or.¡± Oria turned to see a large, muscular man with greying hair and full beard sit next to her. His clothes were stained, and he smelled of hard work.

    ¡°Yes, it has Vik,¡± Oria said taking a sip, ¡°How¡¯s the straight life treating you?¡±

    ¡°Good, good,¡± Vik said taking a nut, ¡°Sorry to hear bout the guild, real shame.¡±

    ¡°It was inevitable. Taern pissed off Decker and left me with the mess,¡± she said with a sad smile, ¡°Now I work for a real monster with a penchant for pretty ladies.¡±

    ¡°Pretty ladies,¡± Vik said with a deep laugh, ¡°Then why did he hire you?¡±

    Oria leaned onto the bar with a seductive smile, ¡°What man wouldn¡¯t want me?¡±

    ¡°A smart one.¡±

    Oria slapped the bar with a laugh, ¡°Why are we friends again?¡± she said.

    ¡°Who said we¡¯re friends,¡± Vik said taking a large sip, ¡°I¡¯m here to get paid. Speaking of which, should we get down to business?¡± Oria nodded, ¡°The Bloody Fangs are bringing in a shipment tonight. Paid Decker well to use the sewers and store it in one of his warehouses.¡±

    Oria took another handful of nuts, ¡°What¡¯s the product?¡±

    ¡°Cursed gear from up north,¡± Vik said, ¡°It¡¯s the good stuff too from what I hear. Gear worn by lich-knights and even a wight general.¡±

    ¡°Damn,¡±

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Vik said finishing his drink, ¡°Collectors will pay big money to get a full set of armor worn by a wight general.¡±

    ¡°Thanks for the tip,¡± Oria said sliding a coin purse over, ¡°The boss will be really happy to hear this.¡±

    Vik¡¯s eyes went wide when he opened the purse, ¡°Or, are you serious?¡±

    Oria nodded, ¡°You¡¯ve been good to me, Vik. Now it¡¯s time to return the favor,¡± she said leaning over, ¡°Change is coming, and I fear it will only get worse. You need to get your beautiful wife and kids out of this city as quickly as possible,¡± She stared him in the eyes, ¡°This new guy is a real monster. He has no qualms about involving civilians if it means getting what he wants.

    Vik mouthed, ¡°The arena?¡± Oria nodded, ¡°Shit,¡± he said, ¡°This is the worst time. Lily¡¯s four months pregnant.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Vik,¡± Oria said getting up, ¡°But you really need to get out of this city.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Or.¡±

    Oria waved at Vik as she stepped out of the Tavern.

    Oria wandered around the slums. The married workers were stepping into their homes, greeted by their lovely wives and happy children. The bachelors gathered into their groups to head off to their favorite taverns. The filthy streets were alive in a way that she loved. Oria walked into the alley and down into the sewers.

    She took a few steps, ¡°Rat,¡± she said a rat appeared out of the shadows, ¡°Take me to the monsters.¡±

    Oria felt at home here in the sewers as she did in the slums above. The rat led her down the winding corridors. Music echoed off the walls, the lovely melody brought a smile to her face. The music grew louder, and she came to a camp with a rickety wall.

    ¡°Open up,¡± Oria said.

    ¡°Oy, what do you want?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see the monster,¡± Oria said with a sigh.

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re the bitch. One moment,¡± Damn whore! Oria growled as the wererats pulled aside the wall. She passed through the wall and the rat bowed, ¡°Sorry for the wait. Lady Meridith should be here soon.¡±

    ¡°Just tell me where the monster is?¡± Oria snapped.

    ¡°The¡­green tent,¡± the rat cowered, ¡°Can¡¯t miss it.¡±

    Oria gave him a small smile, ¡°Thanks,¡±

    Oria didn¡¯t get far when she saw Meridith approach her with a deep scowl.

    ¡°You¡¯re late,¡± Meridith said crossing her arms, ¡°What took you so long?¡±

    ¡°Sorry, but that¡¯s between me and the boss,¡± Oria said stepping past her.

    Meridith stopped her, ¡°Don¡¯t ignore me!¡±

    Oria pushed Meridith out of the way and continued to the tent. The sight caused her to stop in her tracks.

    ¡°Stop, that tickles,¡±

    ¡°We enjoy hearing your laugh,¡±

    Reviled sat next to the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman with it arm around her shoulders. She was laughing as the monster¡¯s tongue slid down her cheeks. Not only that, but a toddler sized mushroom stood next to them dancing with an egg about the same size.

    ¡°Welcome back Oria,¡± the monster said drawing her attention. Its tongue slid back into its mouth, ¡°Sit.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± Oria said. She sat down next to the warrior.

    Meridith stormed in and sat on Reviled¡¯s other side, ¡°Master, this is unacceptable,¡± she said, ¡°She can¡¯t disappear for nearly two weeks only to-¡±

    ¡°Will you shut up!¡± Oria said glaring at Meridith, ¡°I told you I was doing a job that the boss gave me. Just accept that you¡¯re not as important as-¡±

    ¡°Enough, both of you!¡± Reviled said causing both women to look at the ground, ¡°Oria,¡± she swallowed as she looked at the monster, ¡°If Meridith asks you for something, you do it. Understood?¡± Oria nodded. ¡°Do not abuse your position, Meridith. We must be unified if we want to overthrow Decker.¡±

    ¡°Forgive me, master,¡±

    Reviled turned back to Oria, ¡°What did you find out?¡±

    ¡°Pretty much what I expected,¡± Oria said, ¡°With the thieves guild gone, the other gangs in the city are trying to fill in the void. A gang called the Red Fangs are smuggling in cursed gear tonight. They¡¯re probably hoping to make some money to get ahead.¡±The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°I¡¯m curious,¡± the warrior said, ¡°How does the underworld hierarchy work?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not much different from any other,¡± Oria said, ¡°Look at bandits like farmers, they work outside of cities to gather resources. Then once they¡¯ve harvested enough, they bring it to the cities where the gangs purchase and house the goods. Fences work with those gangs to find buyers, and lastly, the king, in this case Decker, is responsible for keeping a sense of order.¡± She looked to Reviled, ¡°It¡¯s important for the king to establish their authority, otherwise the gangs will try to dethrone him if they sense weakness If you want to remove Decker, then you need to establish yourself.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± Reviled said, its eyes dimming in thought, ¡°What would happen if we intercepted the Red Fang¡¯s shipment?¡±

    ¡°It would definitely get the message across,¡± Oria said, ¡°But, they most likely will try and get Decker involved. There¡¯s a sort of unwritten law that gangs won¡¯t interfere each other.¡±

    ¡°Then how do they compete with each other?¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°As I said, it¡¯s unwritten,¡± Oria said with a smile, ¡°The gangs do fight each other. They just try not to get caught. Since we¡¯re a new gang, we haven¡¯t established ourselves as legitimate, so the other gangs will most likely use Decker¡¯s authority to squash us.¡± Oria moved closer to Reviled ¡°If we do steal the Red Fang¡¯s shipment, I recommend sitting on it for a few months before trying to sell it. That way we can see if Decker will get involved.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s special about cursed gear?¡± the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman said.

    ¡°It¡¯s gear that came from the Wight King¡¯s army, Mina,¡± Meridith said, ¡°The gear is infused with necrotic energy that can greatly enhance the wielders power, but at the cost of draining their life-force. The church made it illegal to own because it creates a powerful undead once the wielder dies.¡±

    ¡°We may be able to use it then,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Selling it may be better,¡± Oria said, ¡°The wealthy enjoy collecting contraband items, or we can sell it to adventurers. I¡¯m certain we can find a few saps who desperately want to rise through the ranks quickly.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s dangerous to give them to adventurers,¡± Meridith said, ¡°They could be used against us.¡±

    ¡°Regardless, We¡¯re intercepting that shipment,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We¡¯ll take Kogna and Oria with us.¡±

    ¡°Actually, I would like Kogna to take the payment to the castle,¡± Meridith said, ¡°The sooner we pay the money the sooner we can start building. Besides, we could use the extra bullions to pay for the materials.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Meridith, we¡¯ll leave establishing the tavern to you. Also, speak with Rench to order the parts needed for our repair.¡± Reviled stood up, ¡°Come, Oria.¡±

    Oria quickly followed, ¡°Are we going straight to the meeting?¡±

    ¡°We need to stop by the boneyard first.¡±

    Oria quietly followed. She was familiar with most of the sewers under the slums, but it soon became clear that this wasn¡¯t the sewers she was used to. The familiar sounds of rats turned to silence, and the stench of sewage turned into the sour decay of flesh. Oria gagged at the smell and fought back the bile that rose up her throat. A small amount made it into her mouth, and she spat it out onto the dank stones. A deep moan echoed through the tunnels and Reviled stopped in front of an empty water reservoir. The sight caused Oria to empty her stomach.

    Five zombies shambled in the darkness tearing off the flesh of sewer rats. One picked up a human femur and gnawed on it. The bone was clean of flesh. Oria spat out the last of the vomit before turning away. Oria couldn¡¯t stop her heavy breathing. Her stomach threating to eject what little that remained, but she turned around and tried to regain what little dignity she had left.

    Reviled held out its right hand over the pit, and streams of dark red energy poured into it. The bones started rattling. The magic lifted the bones out of the pit and onto stone walkways. The magic bound the bones together into a complete skeleton with a sword in hand, and the magic settled into their ribs as a singular glowing orb. The orb pulsated as the magic latched onto the bones bringing the skeletons to life. Oria stared in horror as ten skeleton warriors bowed to the monster.

    ¡°Please take the lead Oria,¡± Reviled said causing the ten undead to stare at her.

    ¡°A-as you¡­wish.¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°They¡¯re late.¡±

    ¡°Give them some time Bear,¡± Vixen said with a shrug, ¡°It can¡¯t be easy transporting cursed gear.¡±

    ¡°Still,¡± Hound said playing with the red painted fang hanging from his neck, ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be taking them this long,¡± He looked at the open sewer gate leading out of the city, ¡°We need this to enter the big leagues.¡±

    ¡°And we will Hound,¡± Vixen said hanging off him.

    ¡°Stop flirting and take this seriously, Vixen,¡± Bear growled fiddling with his axe.

    Vixen let go of Hound sidled up to Bear, ¡°You should have told me you¡¯re feeling lonely,¡± she said batting her eyes. She yelped in delight as Bear reached below her waist and squeezed her.

    ¡°They¡¯re here,¡± Hound said drawing their attention.

    Seven men stepped through the sewer gate. Six of them wore heavily worn gambesons with short swords strapped to their waists. They were filthy and smelled like they hadn¡¯t bathed in months. The leader on the other hand looked closer like a merchant with his fine clothes and jewelry. The rough looking men dropped three large crates, magic runes glowing on the wood, onto the ground.

    ¡°What took you so long?¡± Bear said eyeing each of them.

    ¡°We had to wait for a patrol to pass by,¡± the bandit leader said, ¡°So, do you have the money?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s see the goods first, please,¡± Vixen said with a charming smile.

    ¡°Good thing your cute,¡± the leader said touching the top of a crate. The runes died and he unlatched the top. A set of black and gold armor glistened in the moon light, ¡°Here it is.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Vixen said taking the full coin purse from her belt and tossing it to the bandit leader.

    The leader opened the purse and smiled, ¡°Pleasure doing business with you,¡± he said. His attention was drawn behind them, ¡°Are they with you?¡± The Red Fangs turned to see a group of twelve standing in the darkness.

    ¡°They¡¯re not,¡± Bear said drawing his axe.

    ¡°We¡¯ll let you handle this,¡± the leader said backing away.

    Two people stepped out of the darkness. One hid under a long cloak while the other was a slender woman with long blonde hair.

    ¡°This is Red Fang¡¯s business,¡± Hound said pointing his sword at the two, ¡°Leave now.¡±

    ¡°Not anymore it¡¯s not,¡± the cloaked figure said.

    ¡°And who are you with?¡± Vixen said peaking out from behind Hound.

    The blonde woman looked to her company, ¡°We are¡­the Legion,¡± the cloaked figured said.

    Vixen started laughing, ¡°What kind of name is that?¡± she said slapping Hound¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°A fitting one,¡± the ten figures marched forward causing the Red Fangs to step back. ¡°Kill the Red Fangs.¡±

    Bear roared as he charged forward. He swung his axe at the nearest skeleton, but it fell to pieces before the weapon could connect. He tripped over the bones and a sharp pain rose in his chest. Three swords pierced his chest, and he watched as the skeleton beneath him reformed and swung its sword at his neck. Vixen screamed as Bear¡¯s head rolled towards them.

    ¡°Get out of here Vixen!¡± Hound said, ¡°I¡¯ll hold them off!¡±

    Vixen didn¡¯t hesitate. She jumped to the other side of the sewers and ran past. She could see the turn in the sewers. Something slammed her into the wall, and something struck her face. The blonde woman held her against the wall. Vixen drew her knife and slashed at the other woman¡¯s face, but she stepped back. The blonde woman drew her own daggers as she blocked her path.

    The two went back and forth, dodging and slashing. Neither able to strike the other. In frustration, Vixen slammed her opponent against the wall and then brought her fist in for a punch. The blonde woman blocked the attack, and then brought down her dagger. Vixen screamed as searing pain ran down the left side of her face and across her eye, and she shoved her dagger into the woman¡¯s side. The woman screamed in pain. Vixen felt the blonde woman loosen her grip and pushed herself away. She continued running with her hand over the left side of her face. Tears and blood mixed as she escaped.

    <hr>

    Reviled watched as the skeletons struck the killing blow to the last Red Fang member. It was a disappointment. Both warriors looked strong, but fell to such simple tactics, the one with the axe especially.

    ¡°S-sorry¡­boss,¡± Oria slumped against the wall holding her left side, ¡°I couldn¡¯t stop the other from escaping.¡±

    ¡°A pity,¡± Reviled said placing its hand on her wound. Healing touch. Dark red energy seeped from its hand and danced over the cut. Oria sneered in pain as the wound closed. ¡°Do better next time,¡± Oria nodded in understanding, ¡°And take better care of yourself,¡± It said petting her head, ¡°We¡¯d hate to lose you. You¡¯re needed to help run our organization.¡±

    Oria looked at Reviled in shock, ¡°Y-yes s-, I mean boss,¡± she said.

    Reviled turned back to the bandits. They stood by the crates staring at them expectantly.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be taking possession of these crates,¡± Reviled said looking at them.

    ¡°We¡¯d happily hand the product over to you,¡± the leader said with a smile, ¡°For the right cost.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ve already been paid.¡±

    ¡°The Red Fangs paid for the product, but unfortunately, they couldn¡¯t take possession of the product,¡± the leader said, ¡°You¡¯re free to take them, if you¡¯re willing to pay.¡±

    ¡°Are your lives worth the cost?¡± Reviled said pointing its finger.

    The bandit leader chuckled, ¡°That¡¯s funny, but-¡± His eyes opened in shock when a bolt of lightning arced towards them. He reached out with his right hand and deflected the bolt, sending it into the wall. The bandit leader screamed in pain as he held his right hand.

    ¡°You deflected my spell,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle, ¡°But it looks like the power still made it through. Kill them.¡± The skeletons moved forward.

    ¡°Wait! Wait! Wait!¡± the bandit lead said. Reviled commanded the skeletons to stop. ¡°Let¡¯s talk this through. I¡¯m Erban, the leader of the Black Wolves bandit gang,¡± He patted the crates, ¡°As a sign of good faith and desire for a genuine relationship, I offer this as a gift. What do you say?¡±

    ¡°We should take it boss,¡± Oria said, ¡°The Black Wolves are one of the largest bandit groups in the area. If there¡¯s anything we need, they can get.¡±

    ¡°Yes, yes, your lovely partner is correct.¡±

    Reviled stared at Erban, the sweat pouring down his face, ¡°We accept your gift. We look forward to working with you.¡±

    ¡°Likewise,¡± Erban said with a bow, ¡°We¡¯ll leave you to it.¡± He gestured for his men to leave.

    ¡°You¡¯ll be able to contact them?¡± Reviled leaned over to Oria.

    ¡°I know exactly where to find them, boss.¡±

 Chosen Hero

    There was a deep serenity in the night air, but that didn¡¯t stop the horses from charging forward to the large city in front of them. The two warriors were on alert, using the light of the blue moon to observe their surroundings. Solomon kept his left hand over the bag slapping against his left leg. Its oppressive weight constantly on his mind. They slowed their horses when they came into the light of the main gates. Two soldiers brandishing their weapons.

    ¡°Halt, who goes there!¡±

    Solomon raised his left hand, ¡°Solomon Wise, paladin of Touldan, and my wife Schybara¡± he said, ¡°We have an important delivery for his holiness.¡±

    ¡°Our apologize, Sir Solomon,¡± the guard said, ¡°Open the gates!¡±

    The gates creaked open, and the guards saluted the two as they entered Mrythala. The capital city glistened. The white stone buildings reflected the pale blue light of the moon. Unlike Jericho, Mrythala was a city built with beauty in mind. Solomon¡¯s gaze turned to the castle towering over the city.

    It reminded him of a crown. A large central tower with six towers circling it. The golden dome roof of the central tower glistened in the moonlight. A bright spinning light shone in the top of the six towers. Guiding lights for the weary pilgrim.

    It didn¡¯t take long to get to the upper city. The building was a small castle unto itself with three keeps topped by spiked towers. Statues of dragons, gargoyles, and lions looked down upon the street guarding the building with their menacing stairs. Despite the statues, warm inviting light shone through the stained-glass windows bestowing true beauty to the world. This castle built for the Seven Virtues was known as the Grand Cathedral.

    An attendant rushed down the cathedral¡¯s front steps, ¡°Master Solomon,¡± he said, ¡°Welcome back, his Holiness is expecting you in the sanctuary.¡±

    Solomon dismounted and handed the boy his reigns, ¡°Thank you son,¡± he said heading up the steps.

    The cathedrals insides were just as grand as the outside. Golden candelabras and scones decorated the wall alongside rich tapestries showcasing the Seven Virtues. An offering box sat in an altar on the left side of the foyer with candles and incense burning beneath it. A sister in green and gold robes and white veil stood by a podium on the right side. She smiled towards them and gestured to the large oak doors on the other end of the room.

    The sanctuary retained the sense of grandeur with seven stained-glass windows depicting the Seven Virtues. The pews were arranged into two columns with ten rows in front of a dais. A man in finely dressed robes knelt in front of an alter with seven statuettes.

    ¡°Your Holiness,¡± Solomon said kneeling down in front of the dais, ¡°I¡¯ve brought an important package from Jericho.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve received the message from Jericho¡¯s bishop,¡± the Archbishop rose and turned to them, ¡°May I see the necronomicon?¡± Solomon reached into his bag and pulled out the tome. The Archbishop looked it over, ¡°Good, there¡¯s little necrotic emission. Elithis¡¯ prison is still intact.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Solomon said, ¡°I was a little concerned when I didn¡¯t feel excessive necrotic energy coming from the book.¡±

    ¡°Follow me, this book needs to be sealed away.¡± The Archbishop led them to a set of stairs that went down.

    Torches lit up the stairs giving off an eerie feel. The stairs ended into a large circular room. Six large vaults were built into the chamber. A bear, ant, crow, tiger, viper, and fox were carved into the stone above each vault. The vault beneath the fox was shut tight with magical runes glowing into the door. An intricate mural was carved into the floor.

    ¡°What is this place?¡± Schybara said looking around in awe.

    ¡°What do you know about the gods?¡± the Archbishop said looking towards the Vygaern.

    ¡°I know the Virtues protect life while the Dead Gods want to destroy it,¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s actually more complicated than that,¡± The Archbishop said putting the Tome of Elithis into the vault. He pointed to the floor mural.

    It showed their world with its denizen going about their day. On one side was a world of golden light, stars, and the seven Virtues looking down upon the mortals. On the other side was a world of darkness, death, and the six Dead Gods bound in chains. The six Dead Gods were reaching towards the mortal world, their necrotic energy causing part of the world to die.

    ¡°The truth is, the prison of the Dead Gods isn¡¯t a prison, it¡¯s their own realm,¡± The Archbishop said, ¡°Currently, their locked away since the divine energy coming from the Virtues overpowers the necrotic energy coming from the Dead Gods which seals them away. For the Dead Gods to break free, they need to increase the amount of necrotic energy. That¡¯s why they created the necronomicons.¡± The Archbishop closed the vault and activated the runes. ¡°The necronomicons open up directly to their realm allowing necrotic energy to freely pour into our world from their prison.¡±

    ¡°Why the vaults,¡± Schybara said, ¡°Why not destroy the books.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve tried destroying the books before,¡± he said, ¡°But since they¡¯re connected to the Dead Gods, they keep coming back every few centuries. So, it was decided that sealing the books away would be a better solution. We already have the Grimoire of Demuire sealed, and now, we have the Tome of Elithis. Once the Wight King is killed, we can seal the Treatise of Bellidrex.¡±

    ¡°Then destroying the Wight King is our next move,¡± Solomon said, ¡°Your Holiness, may I see the Sword of Touldan?¡±

    The Archbishop looked wearily at Solomon, but nodded, ¡°Very well.¡±

    The Archbishop led them through the halls of the cathedral and into a large domed room. Along the rooms were statues of the Seven Virtues each standing ten feet tall, and at the base of each statue sat a weapon. The glowed with an ethereal golden light that made the lanterns hanging on the wall pointless. They stopped in front of Touldan.

    The god of justice was dressed in plate mail with a cape flowing in the wind. His sword was shoved into the ground with his hands planted on the hilt. At the base of the statue, resting in a pedestal, stood a sword with a glistening white blade. The golden hilt and cross guard shone with light.

    ¡°I must warn you Solomon,¡± the Archbishop said, ¡°Touldan will judge your soul. Should you be found¡­wanting, your life will be forfeit.¡±

    Solomon nodded and stepped up to the swords. He gripped the handle with both hands, and divine energy surged through his whole body.

    Why do you want to be a hero?

    A memory surfaced from Solomon¡¯s past. A bald, elderly man with a missing leg sat on a wooden chair watching a young boy play knight with a broken wooden stick.

    ¡°Grandpa, I¡¯m going to be a hero when I grow up,¡± the boy said with a toothy grin missing his front tooth.

    ¡°Oh,¡± the elderly man said, ¡°Why do you want to be a hero?¡±

    ¡°So I can save people!¡±

    The elderly man whacked the boy with his crutch, ¡°Don¡¯t be a fool boy!¡± he said, ¡°Heroes don¡¯t fight for a faceless person they never met. They fight for the person most precious to them.¡±

    The boy rubbed his head, ¡°Who would you fight for Grandpa,¡± he said.

    ¡°If it was me,¡± the elderly man looked to the aged woman in the window, ¡°It¡¯d be for your Grandma, and my fool Grandson,¡± he pressed his crutch into the boy¡¯s chest, ¡°Find someone who means the world to you, then you¡¯ll become a great hero.¡± Grandpa gave him a large smile.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    Why do you want to save the world?

    Another memory.

    Solomon panted as he sat on the ground. He pulled off his helmet and gave a silent prayer in thanks for the icy spring breeze. It chilled the sweat pouring down his face which sent a refreshing sensation through his body. With a few deep breaths, he looked upon the ruined battlefield.

    Hundreds of undead littered the ground. Their bodies slowly turning to dust due to the divine magic that struck them down. Three dozen knights stood tall as they took the time to refresh themselves. Their armor bearing the scars of battle, and their weapons just as worn, but that made their stature even more imposing.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re tired already,¡±

    Solomon turned to the knight. This one stood out from the others since his armor was decorated with gold and silver, along with the green scapular worn by the paladins of Touldan. The paladin pulled off his helmet and let his greying ginger hair dry in the breeze, and his blazing brown eyes wrinkled with his taunting smile.

    ¡°If this is all you¡¯re capable of then maybe I should request another squire,¡± He turned to the towering Vygaern man to his side, ¡°What say you Benharren?¡±

    ¡°I say we give the boy some time sire,¡± Benharren said with a small chuckle, ¡°It takes time for the lowlanders to get accustomed to fighting in the highlands.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± the paladin scoffed with a large smile, ¡°A hero wouldn¡¯t have problems fighting a few hundred undead in these conditions.¡±

    Solomon blushed as he knelt before his mentor, ¡°Forgive me, Sir Garrod,¡± he said, ¡°I won¡¯t disappoint you again.¡± The other knights howled in laughter.

    ¡°Son, it was a joke,¡± Garrod sighed, ¡°This isn¡¯t the Grand Cathedral, so loosen up.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± Solomon saluted.

    ¡°Damn kid doesn¡¯t listen,¡± Garrod growled in frustration, ¡°Let¡¯s go everyone, that necromancer is around here somewhere.¡±

    The knights secured their armor and returned to formation. Solomon groaned as he rose to his feet, and thankfully, Benharren helped him back onto his horse. Garrod moved to the front of the formation and ushered his men forward. Solomon rode behind Garrod¡¯s left side while Benharren rode on his right.

    ¡°What was it like fighting undead for the first time?¡± Garrod looked over to him.

    ¡°It¡¯s¡­not what I expected,¡± Solomon said as a shiver ran down his spine.

    Garrod nodded solemnly, ¡°The undead may look mindless, but there is more to them than people realize,¡± a small smile came to his lips, ¡°But a hero should already know that.¡±

    ¡°I¡­didn¡¯t sir,¡± Solomon felt his face heat up.

    ¡°Virtues save me,¡±

    ¡°Master Solomon,¡± Benharren chuckled at them, ¡°You needn¡¯t stand on ceremony when we¡¯re out in the field. His majesty is trying to help you get comfortable.¡±

    ¡°Yea kid, loosen them knickers of yours!¡± a shout came from the knights behind them, followed by laughter.

    ¡°Look Solomon,¡± Garrod turned to him, ¡°I understand that you chose to be my squire because of my heritage, but there is more to being a hero than wielding one of the sacred weapons.¡± Solomon nodded as he listened intently, ¡°And the first lesson is to know when to let things go, because if you don¡¯t¡­then you¡¯ll break.¡± Garrod¡¯s gaze turned distant.

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Solomon said.

    ¡°Heroes carry a heavy burden,¡± Garrod said with a sad smile, ¡°Few have the spirit to be one, and even fewer who can keep at it. That¡¯s why the Virtues gave the weapons a flaw.¡±

    ¡°How are the weapons flawed!¡±

    ¡°The weapons were made to combat the Dead Gods and their abominations, but they are useless against everything else,¡± Garrod laughed, ¡°That way they can¡¯t be abused.¡±

    Solomon scoffed, ¡°A hero wouldn¡¯t do that,¡±

    ¡°Some would,¡± Garrod gave him a knowing smile, ¡°Humans are capable of good and evil in equal measure. It¡¯s why the Dead Gods keep gifting us their books, so they can take advantage of us,¡± he gave Solomon a stern glare, ¡°It¡¯s important for a hero to know the evils they are capable of, otherwise they are doomed to fall.¡±

    Honoring a fallen mentor.

    Everything turned white as the memory changed.

    This time Solomon rode at the head of a column. The light left their eyes as they looked upon the horrific scene. Bodies littered the ground, many torn apart by the undead monstrosities. Broken wagons laid on their side with burned sides. They made their way into the carnage, and Solomon¡¯s eyes fell onto the body of a dark-skinned man with multicolored tribal tattoos.

    ¡°Did anyone survive?¡± Solomon said.

    A cry answered, and Solomon ran deeper into the camp. The cry came from underneath a broken wagon tarp. Solomon lifted the cloth and found a young woman with purple-black hair with color shifting tattoos holding onto two small children. There was a hole in her gut. The children in the woman¡¯s arm were torn in half. The color from their skin long gone.

    ¡°Ma¡¯am, you¡¯re hurt,¡± Solomon said placing a hand on her wound.

    ¡°Leave me!¡± the woman said, ¡°Let me die with my babies.¡±

    Solomon began healing her wounds, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t do that,¡± he said.

    The woman fell unconscious as the healing took the last of her strength. Solomon and his men set up camp. They put the woman in a tent to rest while the men began cremating the bodies. Solomon sat next to the woman, brushing the hair from her face. Slowly, she opened her eyes.

    ¡°Where am I?¡± she said.

    ¡°You¡¯re in our camp,¡± Solomon said, helping her drink from a waterskin. ¡°My men are seeing to the bodies of your people.¡±

    ¡°You should have let me die,¡± she said tears flowed from her eyes, ¡°There¡¯s nothing left for me here.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t say that.¡±

    ¡°My husband and children are dead. My clan is gone. What do you think I have left!¡± she said with a glare.

    ¡°You have your life,¡± Solomon said taking her hand.

    Tears ran down the woman¡¯s face, ¡°What should I do?¡±

    ¡°You¡­can join me,¡± Solomon smiled at her, ¡°I¡¯m aware of how skilled the vygaern are in battle. Your skills would be a godsend, and I¡¯d be honored to have you at my side.¡±

    ¡°Fight?¡± The woman wiped away her tears, ¡°You¡¯re right. If I did nothing, it would bring shame to my husband and children.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±

    ¡°Schybara,¡± a fire burned in her eyes.

    A broken spirit reforged in love.

    The memory changed.

    Solomon stood on a battlefield. The corpse of a Wight General laid at his feet, and Schybara stood next to him breathing heavily. Many soldiers laid dead alongside the corpses of the undead. The survivors tended to the injuries, many would soon succumb and join the dead. Priests wandered around the battlefield, chanting their prayers warding off the lingering necrotic energy with the Virtues¡¯ divine.

    ¡°Another victory,¡± Schybara said, her wounds healing in the light of her aura, ¡°Our second in ten days.¡±

    ¡°But the casualties are high, again,¡± Solomon said, ¡°We should head-¡±

    ¡°Master Solomon!¡± a soldier ran up to them, ¡°Come quick!¡±

    They followed the soldier across the field and stopped in front of a fallen soldier. His face was deathly pale, but his chest rapidly rose and fell. His helmet lay next to him with large clumps of red hair on the ground. Solomon stared in horror at the black and gold gauntlet on his left hand.

    ¡°Damn fool!¡± Solomon said kneeling next to the body, ¡°What would possess you to wear a cursed gauntlet?¡± He laid his hands on the man¡¯s left arm, divine energy fighting against necrotic.

    The boy gasped between breaths, ¡°M-Myraelle¡­I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Go get another priest!¡± Solomon said to the soldier, ¡°Let¡¯s see if we can save this idiot.¡±

    Solomon pushed more of his divine energy into the gauntlet. The necrotic energy lashed out as dark green lightning that snapped at Solomon¡¯s hand, but he pushed through the pain. Slowly, the divine energy seeped into the cursed gauntlet. The gauntlet started to glow with golden light, and with a thunderous clap, the aura of death dissipated. Solomon fell back as a priestess ran up to them.

    ¡°Quick, start channeling¡­healing into him,¡± Solomon said with heavy breathing, ¡°I¡¯ve cleansed the gauntlet, but he¡¯s still on death¡¯s door.¡± The priestess fell to her knees and placed her hands onto the soldier¡¯s chest. Golden light entered his body. Solomon rose to his feet, ¡°Move him to the infirmary once he¡¯s stable.¡±

    The memory changed to Solomon sitting next to the dying soldier. His breathing was steady, but he still looked like a corpse. Slowly, the soldier¡¯s eyes opened.

    ¡°W-where¡­am¡­I?¡± the soldier said.

    ¡°You¡¯re in the infirmary,¡± Solomon said, ¡°You¡¯re lucky we got to you in time. Why would you wear a cursed gauntlet?¡± the soldier didn¡¯t speak, ¡°Fine, then who is Myraelle?¡±

    ¡°A¡­girl,¡±

    ¡°I figured that, but who is she?¡± Solomon said giving the man a hard stare.

    ¡°She¡¯s a girl back home,¡± he said, ¡°But her father, the bastard, wasted their money and sold her into slavery,¡± He took a deep breath.

    Solomon held up the gauntlet, ¡°So you endangered you life in order to save her!¡±

    ¡°I need that!¡± the soldier said reaching out with his left hand. He screamed in horror. The flesh around his left arm up to the elbow was gone, revealing the bones of his forearm, wrist, and hand. The flesh around his elbow was blackened and melted.

    ¡°Be thankful it¡¯s just your hand,¡± Solomon said handing him the gauntlet, ¡°If we hadn¡¯t gotten to you sooner, then you would have died. Unable to save your precious Myraelle.¡±

    ¡°T-the power¡­it¡¯s gone,¡±

    ¡°I cleansed it,¡± he said placing a hand on his shoulder, ¡°If she is important to you, then you must value your own life first. You can¡¯t save her if your dead.¡±

    ¡°How can I save her now?¡± the soldier said with tears in his eyes.

    ¡°I''ll show you how,¡± Solomon said, ¡°Once you get better, I¡¯m taking you on as an apprentice. We¡¯ll save Myraelle.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your name son?¡±

    ¡°Halligan, master Solomon. My name is Halligan.¡±

    A wayward soul brought back.

    Solomon pulled upward and the sword slowly budged. Then, the sword came free from its pedestal, and the divine energy that burned through Solomon turned into a gentle warmth. The weapon felt lighter than a normal sword, and it felt like an extension of his own arm. It felt right.

    ¡°Solomon Wise,¡± the Archbishop¡¯s voice echoed through the room. Schybara stood behind him with tears in her eyes and her hands over her mouth. ¡°Touldan has judged your soul and found you worthy. From hence forth, the Sword of Touldan is yours until the day you no longer need it.¡± Solomon took the sword¡¯s scabbard from Touldan¡¯s statue. ¡°Go and rid the world of evil. Go and destroy the Wight King.¡±

 Challenged Authority

    Bartholomew stared out into the night sky. His nostrils flared as he gritted his teeth with a note crushed in his hands.

    ¡°We¡¯re nearing our destination sir.¡± A deep gravelly voice drew him out of his thoughts.

    Bartholomew turned to the man sitting across from him. He was a walking contradiction. A wall of a man with thick muscles barely being held in his tailored suit. His bald head brushed against the carriage ceiling. His wide jaw hidden behind a full, well-groomed beard.

    ¡°My rings, Davus,¡± Bartholomew said.

    Davus pulled out a plain wooden box with brass hinges. He opened it to reveal ten thick steel rings sitting on a worn pillow. Bartholomew placed the rings on each finger, the thick heads striking against each other.

    ¡°You¡¯re taking this seriously, pops?¡± Baron said with a snicker.

    Bartholomew growled, and turned to Taela, ¡°I don¡¯t want him embarrassing me,¡± he said.

    ¡°Understood sir,¡± Taela said with a satisfied smile.

    ¡°And how are going to do that?¡± Baron said.

    Taela stepped on his foot, ¡°If you don¡¯t behave,¡± she said, ¡°Then you won¡¯t get a treat tonight.¡±

    Baron chuckled, ¡°I¡¯ll behave then,¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re here,¡± Davus said as the carriage stopped.

    Bartholomew was the first out of the carriage with Davus behind him. They stood in front of a pristine whitewashed building that stood three stories high. Rich drapes hung in the windows with a multitude of flowers framing the path to the doorway. They stepped into the building.

    The building had a thick heavy scent of incense hung in the foyer. A stairway at the back led upstairs and down into the cellar. A curtain covered the doorway on their right. A beautiful woman wearing only a corset and petticoat approached them.

    ¡°Welcome master Decker,¡± the courtesan said with a bow, ¡°Madame Reina is waiting for you downstairs.¡±

    Bartholomew nodded and took the stairs downstairs. The stairs let out into a hallway with a door leading to a steaming bath on one side and a storage room on the other, but they stepped past both to the door at the end of the hall. Bartholomew nodded to Davus, and he knocked on the door. A large man, nearly as tall as Davus, opened it for them.

    The room was richly decorated. Mahogany furniture lined the walls with gold and silver candelabras illuminating the room. A well-stocked bar sat on the left side with beautiful, topless courtesans ready to serve. In the center of the room sat a long rectangular table with six of the ten chairs occupied. Bartholomew walked around and took a seat at the head of the table. Baron sat at the other end.

    A courtesan approached with a filled glass, ¡°Your usual, sire?¡± she said with a charming smile.

    Bartholomew took the glass, letting his eyes wander on her exposed flesh, ¡°Thank you,¡± he said taking a sip.

    He set the tumbler onto the wooden coaster and let his gaze linger on the others sitting at the table. Bartholomew¡¯s gaze lingered on the mature beauty to his right. Reina¡¯s lovely brown and grey hair shimmering in the light, and she responded with a sly smile and a lick of her lips. Bartholomew returned her smile then he returned his gaze to the room.

    ¡°So,¡± he said, authority filled his voice, ¡°Would someone like to explain why we¡¯re gathered here?¡±

    ¡°I would like to know as well,¡± Reina said, ¡°I had to pull my best girls for this meeting which is costing me greatly.¡±

    All eyes turned to the young man, a kid really, sitting to Baron¡¯s left. His lanky frame leaned against the arm of the chair. His unkempt, dirty-blond hair hung in his face. A large red fang hung from the earring on his left ear.

    ¡°Are you going to say anything, Calleg?¡± Bartholomew said.

    ¡°We have a problem,¡± Calleg said sitting up, ¡°Our shipment of cursed gear was stolen.¡±

    The elderly man sitting next to Calleg gave him a sad smile, ¡°That¡¯s a shame,¡± he said, ¡°I had a few buyers ready for you.¡±

    ¡°Do you know who stole it?¡± Baron said scratching his ear.

    ¡°Vixen,¡± Calleg said looking to the fully dressed woman. The left side of her face was wrapped in bandages.

    ¡°It was a new gang led by a necromancer,¡± she said, ¡°They called themselves the Legion.¡±

    Bartholomew crushed his glass. Everyone stared in shock as a courtesan cleaned the mess.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you have men guarding the product?¡± Bartholomew asked, picking glass out of his hand.

    ¡°I did!¡± Calleg said slamming his fist on the table, ¡°I sent three men to protect the crates until I could gather enough men to move it.¡±

    Silence filled the room.

    ¡°You sent¡­three people to guard the product?¡± Bartholomew¡¯s voice was soft, yet it filled the entire room. ¡°You¡¯re an idiot.¡±

    ¡°I had to send my men to secure our territory!¡± Calleg said standing up, ¡°Every street gang is trying to secure whatever they can from what the thieves guild left behind. As leader of the Red Fangs, I had to make sure none of the other gangs stepped out of line.¡± He glared sharply at Bartholomew, ¡°Isn¡¯t that why you were scouting us?¡±

    ¡°I was scouting you because I needed to find a replacement for the thieves guild,¡± Bartholomew said standing up, ¡°But it seems I overestimated your abilities.¡±The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    ¡°Don¡¯t give me that!¡± Calleg said approaching him, ¡°My gang did what we were supposed to do. It¡¯s your job as king to keep other gangs from messing with us.¡± He stood shoulder to shoulder with Bartholomew, but his thin frame wasn¡¯t as intimidating. Calleg poked Bartholomew in the chest, ¡°Perhaps you¡¯re losing your touch, old man.¡±

    Bartholomew stared at the boy impassively. Calleg smiled smugly and turned to one of the courtesans. Bartholomew quickly grabbed Calleg with his left hand and punched him in the face. Bartholomew¡¯s steel rings left imprints on Calleg¡¯s face.

    Vixen tried to step forward, but Davus picked her up and crushed her in a bear hug. She screamed in pain and lashed out with her feet, but Davus wasn¡¯t letting go.

    Bartholomew kept hitting Calleg. Only the courtesans flinched with each strike. The warm, sticky blood covered his fist and ran down his wrist. Bartholomew slammed his fist into Calleg¡¯s face one last time and let his body fall to the floor. Calleg¡¯s face was left a bloody mess. Two courtesans brough bowl of water and a towel.

    Bartholomew washed his hands and threw the towel onto Calleg, ¡°Let this be a lesson,¡± he said as Calleg gurgled blood, ¡°If someone challenges your authority, then you beat them bloody. Don¡¯t go running to someone else.¡± He headed back to his seat, ¡°Get him out of here.¡± He watched as two guards pickup the bloody Calleg and carry him out of the room. Bartholomew looked to the others, ¡°The Red Fangs are now disgraced,¡± he said, ¡°And I¡¯m putting a bounty on the Legion.¡±

    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be better to bring them on?¡± Reina said.

    ¡°They won¡¯t do it,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°I know the leader personally, and he¡¯s been a thorn in my side for nearly a year.¡± Everyone stared in silence.

    ¡°I would like to make a proposal,¡± Reina said drawing everyone¡¯s attention, ¡°I want to be in charge of the slave trade.¡±

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you overstepping?¡± The large man across from her said.

    ¡°Samon,¡± Bartholomew said quieting the man, ¡°Explain yourself Reina.¡±

    ¡°The black market shut down when Gambill died,¡± Reina said, ¡°What I¡¯m proposing is to diversify the market between several of us. That way the market won¡¯t completely shut down when one of us is deposed.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case,¡± the elderly man said, ¡°I¡¯d like to join in with miss Reina.¡±

    ¡°Accepted,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°Reina and Wilfried will take over the black market, and I¡¯ll be taking over as financier, for the time being. Anything else?¡±

    ¡°Can I take control of smuggling and consolidating the street gangs in the lower city?¡± Samon said, ¡°There¡¯s too many kids trying to push their way into our business.¡±

    ¡°Accepted,¡± Bartholomew said pointing to the wretched looking man between Reina and Willfried, ¡°Work with Andren to get the lower city back under control.¡±

    ¡°I have something,¡± All eyes turned to Baron, ¡°My little mouse told me that someone important purchased the thieves guild tavern.¡±

    ¡°When were you going to mention this?¡± Bartholomew said with a growl.

    ¡°I just did.¡±

    ¡°Gather more information, Baron,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°If there is nothing else, then we¡¯ll conclude here.¡±

    ¡°Feel free to help yourself to any of the girls here,¡± Reina said with a casual smile.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mind if I do,¡± Samon rose and picked up two of the girls before leaving the room.

    ¡°High-end whores aren¡¯t my thing,¡± Andren said, ¡°I¡¯ll prefer the girls in the lower city.¡±

    ¡°And I have a lovely wife at home,¡± Wilfried said, ¡°Another thing, I found that songbird you wanted Reina. The one Delilah had.¡±

    ¡°Where did you find her!¡± Reina said looking expectantly.

    ¡°She came into my shop a few days ago,¡± Wilfried said putting on his jacket, ¡°Her new mistress bought the rymujin that¡¯s been sitting in my shop.¡±

    ¡°At least she¡¯s still in the city,¡± Reina said with a large smile, ¡°Now I just need to find her.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m glad I could be of help,¡± Wilfried said putting on his hat, ¡°Good night, sire, lady Reina.¡±

    Bartholomew stood up and headed over to the bar. A courtesan poured him another glass. Baron and Taela came to the bar, and Baron gave the courtesan a charming smile. Taela gave him a stern glare.

    ¡°Sweetie, how have you been?¡± Reina said, giving Taela a hug. ¡°The Decker¡¯s been taking care of you?¡±

    Taela hugged her back, ¡°I¡¯m fine auntie,¡± she said, ¡°They treat me well,¡± she gave a Baron a sly smile, ¡°When master Baron isn¡¯t misbehaving.¡±

    ¡°Oh my,¡± Reina said giving Baron a similar smile, ¡°Do I need to get a few of the girls together so that we can punish him.¡±

    ¡°I believe so,¡± Taela said laughing.

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re always welcome to come back,¡± Reina said, ¡°Many of your old clients would appreciate it.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t,¡± Taela said, ¡°Master Baron couldn¡¯t make it without me.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Reina said, ¡°Your old room is still available.¡± She turned to Bartholomew, ¡°Would you like to join me tonight?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love to,¡± Bartholomew finished his drink and took her arm.

    Reina led Bartholomew up to her room on the third floor. The madame¡¯s room took up most of the third floor with built in bath. Reina stepped behind the silk screen in the corner of the room while Bartholomew sat on the bed. A lamp on the other side gave Bartholomew a tempting view of her silhouette. Reina stepped out with a thin, transparent shift. Reina sat on Bartholomew¡¯s lap and started kissing him as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Bartholomew let his hands explore all over her body.

    Reina pulled away with a heavy breath, ¡°I¡¯d like to make another proposal,¡± she said giving him a peck on the lips.

    Bartholomew chuckled, ¡°I knew there was a catch,¡± he said tightening his grip on her left breast.

    Reina moaned with a smile, ¡°I want to open another brothel in the lower city,¡± she nibbled his ear, ¡°That way I can secure my hold in Jericho.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Bartholomew¡¯s hand slid further up her thigh, ¡°I might if you can convince me.¡±

    Reina pushed him down on the bed and straddled him, ¡°Gladly.¡±

    <hr>

    The sun shone through the window as Bartholomew put on his clothes. Reina laid on the bed with the sheets wrapped around her middle but letting her legs show. The golden light of the sun made her look more beautiful.

    ¡°Did I convince you?¡± she said with a victorious smile.

    ¡°You did,¡± Bartholomew said putting on his jacket.

    He came to her and gave her a deep kiss, ¡°Would you mind financing it?¡± she said with a sweet smile.

    ¡°Now I know why Andren prefers cheaper girls,¡± Bartholomew said with a smile, ¡°You upper city girls are too damn expensive.¡±

    Reina parted her legs in a tempting pose, ¡°But we¡¯re worth it.¡±

    ¡°Yes, you are,¡± he gave her another kiss, ¡°I¡¯ll send the money when you¡¯re ready.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Reina kissed him again.

    Bartholomew pulled away and left the room. He headed downstairs and stopped at the entrance to the common room. The prostitutes sat around in their shifts resting after a long night work. They noticed him standing there.

    They quickly rose to their feet and bowed, ¡°Good morning sire,¡± they said.

    ¡°Good morning, ladies,¡± Bartholomew said stepping inside, ¡°How are you all feeling?¡±

    The bartender, a middle-aged woman, said, ¡°We¡¯re excellent, sire.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m glad to hear it,¡± Bartholomew said pulling out a small coin purse and setting it on the counter, ¡°This is for the girls who served us last night.¡± He pulled out another bag, ¡°And this is for those that didn¡¯t.¡±

    The bartender smiled warmly, ¡°You¡¯re too generous sire,¡± she said, ¡°What do we say ladies?¡±

    ¡°Thank you sire!¡± the prostitutes said with a deep bow.

    Bartholomew smiled and waved, ¡°Keep up the good work, ladies.¡± His smile grew as he heard the bartender trying to get the girls to settle down.

    His carriage sat outside with Davus standing by the open door. He bowed when Bartholomew approached.

    ¡°Good morning, sir,¡± Davus said in his deep guttural voice.

    ¡°Morning Davus,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°Let¡¯s go home. There¡¯s work that needs to be done.¡±

    Baron and Taela were already sitting inside. Taela beamed with bright energy while Baron looked like a walking corpse.

    ¡°What happened to you boy?¡± Bartholomew said with a dark smile.

    ¡°I punished him last night,¡± Taela said with a large smile, ¡°As you ordered, master Bartholomew.¡±

    Bartholomew released a loud laugh, ¡°Good,¡± he said, ¡°Pull yourself together boy, you have work to do.¡±

    Baron responded with a deathly moan.

 Mama Capcap

    The wererat soldiers gathered by the pit and split up into pairs. They were training with Kogna and Oria instructing them. Skivret sparred with a larger soldier that wielded and shield and short spear. Skivret¡¯s fighting improved greatly under Kogna¡¯s training. Nimble stood in the pit surrounded by a group of skeleton soldiers to spar with. Reviled couldn¡¯t help but be delighted at the sight.

    Mina sat to its right on an ornate pillow with a wooden base that Rench made. The other companions were given their own pillows. Reviled sat on his throne, a chair made from bones and wood that would be uncomfortable for any organic creature. Reviled clacked his claw on the throne¡¯s arm which caused Preddie to flinch.

    Reviled turned to its left, ¡°Is something the matter,¡± it said.

    ¡°N-no master,¡± Preddie said wringing her hands. Her eyes fell to Nimble, ¡°Why is lady Nimble fighting against your undead?¡±

    ¡°The other soldiers aren¡¯t up to her level yet,¡± Reviled said, ¡°But that should change soon. They¡¯re progressing rather rapidly.¡±

    ¡°They should,¡± Mina said with a proud smile, ¡°My brother is training them.¡±

    ¡°Sire is getting better,¡± Preddie said starry eyed, ¡°He¡¯s great.¡±

    Reviled chuckled. Preddie was right about Skivret getting better. He easily slipped past his partner¡¯s shield and struck his back. Skivret¡¯s speed allowed him to dodge several quick strikes from his partner¡¯s spear and seamlessly slipped past the shield again. They won¡¯t need to hide behind their walls anymore.

    ¡°How is the training going?¡± Meridith said coming from behind.

    ¡°It¡¯s going well,¡± Reviled said looking at the case in her hands, ¡°What are those?¡±

    ¡°The tavern plans,¡± she said with a large smile, ¡°Do you want to see?¡±

    Reviled nodded and Meridith sat on its left knee. She pulled out the plans and unfurled them with Reviled holding the right side. The plans showed a three-story building with a balcony on two sides.

    ¡°Why three-stories?¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°The first floor will be the tavern with kitchen,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Then the second floor will have seven rooms. That way we can house any guests wanting to talk with you. Then the third floor will have enough rooms for the myself, Mina, Kogna, and Oria.¡±

    ¡°What about the basement?¡±

    Meridith flipped to the last page, ¡°Here are the plans for the basement,¡± she said, ¡°We¡¯ll make it a sitting room for anyone wanting to have an audience with you. It will have a bar and several tables for our specific visitors.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Reviled pointed to what looked like a raised platform with curtains all around it.

    ¡°That was my idea,¡± Mina said sheepishly, ¡°Back home, it¡¯s improper for peasants to look upon the lords, so they have a dais with screens. That way they could have court without dishonoring the petitioner,¡± Mina looked up at Reviled, ¡°If you had something similar then you could join us in the tavern.¡±If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Reviled gently brushed Mina¡¯s cheek, ¡°Thank you Mina,¡± it said, ¡°We¡¯ll make great use of your gift.¡± It turned back to Meridith, ¡°When will construction start?¡±

    ¡°Next week,¡± she said rolling up the plans, ¡°It will be finished in about two months, and probably another month before it will open.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s try opening in two weeks after construction,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Understood,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I can start putting in orders for furniture and supplies early. Our biggest issue will be finding people to staff the tavern.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Perhaps we can bring in someone from the slums. If they can keep their mouth shut.¡±

    A scream echoed through the camp. The screams were coming from Skivret¡¯s tent. Inside they found Cappy laying on her back with the egg sitting on her stomach. The egg twitched and Cappy screamed louder.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong Cappy?¡± Mina said looking terrified.

    ¡°The egg, it¡¯s moving,¡± Cappy said, ¡°I¡¯m having a baby!¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s starting to hatch,¡±

    Cappy screamed again. ¡°Why is she in pain?¡± Mina said looking between Reviled and Cappy.

    ¡°She emotionally bonded to the egg,¡± Oria said. Everyone looked at her in shock, ¡°I know a man who went through the same thing when his wife was pregnant.¡±

    The egg twitched violently, and a crack formed along the shell, ¡°It¡¯s coming!¡± Cappy said closing her eyes.

    The egg continued to shake as more cracks formed along the shell. A chip fell from the shell and Cappy let out another loud scream. A few more chips fell. Cappy released the loudest scream she could, and the shell burst open. The elithan ant cried alongside Cappy with its mandibles open and small stinger piercing the air. Cappy let go of the egg and it fell to the ground.

    Cappy stood up and petted the ant, ¡°Happy birthday, Antwuan!¡± she said, ¡°Are ya¡¯ hungry?¡± The ant clacked its mandibles then snapped at Cappy¡¯s hand. Cappy recoiled glaring at the ant, ¡°No, bad Antwuan! No biting!¡± Energy gathered in her hand, and she slapped the ant¡¯s head. The ant screamed in pain as a light green circle appeared around its neck. ¡°You don¡¯t bite Mama Capcap! Ever!¡±

    ¡°No!¡± Reviled said clawing at its face, ¡°Damn fungus, what have you done.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Mina said cowering in the doorway.

    ¡°She used compulsion magic on it,¡± Reviled said.

    Oria looked at him in confusion, ¡°And?¡±

    ¡°One of the most dangerous creatures in the world is now under Cappy¡¯s control,¡±

    They looked at the mushroom petting the puppy sized ant. Their faces turned to horrified terror as realization started to sit in.

    ¡°Virtues help us,¡± Meridith said holding her head.

    ¡°I¡¯m certain they¡¯re behind this,¡± Reviled said.

    Mina tapped on Reviled¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Can¡¯t you take it over from her?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too young,¡± Reviled said shaking its head, ¡°It would die from the pain, and by the time it¡¯s old enough we won¡¯t be able to. Compulsion seals grow stronger the longer they¡¯re active.¡±

    ¡°Leave this to me,¡± Meridith said. She approached Cappy and kneeled down next to her, ¡°Congratulations Cappy!¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Pretty Lady,¡± Cappy said, ¡°It was tough but worth it.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re happy for you, and will be here to help you,¡± Meridith said, ¡°After all, we¡¯re a family, right?¡± Cappy nodded with a blank stare, ¡°And Antwuan should listen to the family, right?¡±

    Realization dawned on Cappy, ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± she said pointing to the group, ¡°Antwuan, these people are your family, and you need to listen to them like you do me. Understand?¡±

    The ant looked at Cappy then at the group and twitched its antennae. Meridith slowly reached out, and Antwuan lowered its head allowing her to pet its black carapace.

    ¡°We¡¯ll take good care of you Antwuan,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Should we get her something to eat?¡±

    ¡°Yes, food!¡± Capcap said running out of the tent with Antwuan close behind.

    Meridith smiled as she approached the group. ¡°What would we do without you?¡± Reviled said with a chuckle.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad to please,¡± Meridith said patting its chest plate.

    ¡°I better make sure that insect doesn¡¯t attack my people,¡± Skivret said running out.

    They stepped outside and watched as Cappy fed pieces of roasted meat to the infant ant. It held the pieces in its large pincers as its smaller mandibles nibbled at the meat. The wererat children slowly approached and reached out, but Antwuan turned and hissed at them.

    ¡°No, they¡¯re family,¡± Cappy said, ¡°Everyone in this camp is family, so behave.¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°We¡¯re doomed.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± Everyone said with a sigh.

 Warfront

    Reviled sat at the table across from Skivret. They were looking at the map of the sewers with wooden pieces marking the other wererat camps with reports next to it. Skivret twisted his whiskers in frustration as he looked at the reports.

    ¡°We do not want to fight a war on two fronts,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°Then what do you suggest?¡± Skivret said, ¡°My brothers are gathering all of their forces at Camp Dethkret,¡± he pointed to a camp that sat beyond their territory.

    ¡°This is your war,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We¡¯ll leave this to you to figure out, but we will help should you need it.¡±

    Skivret scratched his snout, ¡°I¡¯ll need as many undead as you can create,¡± he said, ¡°Also, do you have any spells that can create barriers?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    Skivret taps on the map that¡¯s as far away from the enemy camp but at the edge of their territory, ¡°Then let¡¯s head out as soon as possible,¡±

    Olmret sat on his plush chair looking down at the reports provided by his scouts. His brothers, Dolbret and Uhlgret, sat on pillows at his feet, each looking nervous. They were concerned about the soldiers getting restless outside.

    ¡°How have we not found Skivret¡¯s camp?¡± Olmret said glaring at his brothers.

    ¡°We¡¯ve searched everywhere we could,¡± Dolbret said, ¡°The only place left is the monster¡¯s territory.¡±

    Olmret scratched the area around his missing ears, ¡°Damn coward hiding behind that abomination.¡±

    ¡°But we need to do something,¡± Uhlgret said, ¡°We can¡¯t keep the soldiers at the ready forever.¡±

    ¡°Then we should just spread through that part of the sewer,¡± Olmret said crushing the report, ¡°We can¡¯t let the fear of the monster keep us from crushing that red-eye bastard.¡±

    ¡°Sire!¡± a scout rushed in, ¡°We found the enemy camp!¡±

    ¡°About time,¡± Olmret said taking the report, ¡°Where is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s on the other side of the sewers, just within the monster¡¯s territory.¡±

    Dolbret scratched his ear but stopped when he noticed Olmret¡¯s scowl, ¡°How did our scouts get past the undead?¡±

    The scout bowed, ¡°There weren¡¯t any,¡± he said, ¡°When we were scouting the area, we saw the monster leaving the camp, but it looked severely damaged.¡±

    Olmret laughed, ¡°The monster¡¯s leaving that albino to fend for himself,¡± he said, ¡°Gather the men, we¡¯re moving out!¡±

    The camp came to life as the soldiers rushed around getting ready. Olmret stood at the head of the column with his brothers and led the two hundred soldiers out. They ran through the sewer tunnels on all fours. The sewer rats scattered in terror at the echoing stampede of the army. The army skirted around the edge of the monster¡¯s territory. The army slowed and started sneaking to Skivret¡¯s camp. They stopped with the camp walls barely in sight.

    ¡°What¡¯s the plan brother?¡± Dolbret said.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to split our forces,¡± Olmret said, ¡°Uhlgret will take a third of our forces and take them to the other side of the camp that way they have no place to escape to. Then we¡¯ll break through the wall and slaughter them,¡± Hatred filled his eyes, ¡°Leave Skivret for me though.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± they both said.

    <hr>

    Dolbret sat at the front of his forces, seventy-five soldiers waiting for the order to charge. He was waiting for the signal from his brother so that he could charge the wall. He scratched his ears as he looked around. He didn¡¯t like the idea of running into Decker¡¯s monster, even if it was badly hurt. A horn sounded from the other end causing Dolbret to sigh.

    ¡°Charge!¡±

    The soldiers rushed past him. Arrows flew out from the gaps in the misshapen wall, but the soldiers in front blocked them with their wooden shields. The soldiers reached the wall, and they started cutting the ropes on both ends of a small section. The ropes snapped under the pressure of the storming soldiers, and the wall fell into the camp. Dolbret charged in with the rest of his soldiers. He pushed his way through the soldiers and stopped when he reached the front.

    A hundred-fifty soldiers stared in disbelief. There were no tents. No enemy soldiers. No signs of life. The camp was completely empty save for bones and the single platform standing in the center of the camp. Dolbret squeaked in terror.

    ¡°Good, everyone¡¯s here,¡± the monster said looking down on them, ¡°Now we can have some fun.¡±Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.

    The monster raised its right hand, and a clap of thunder caused the soldiers to flinch. A wall of transparent shadow surrounded the camp walls. A dark red fog of magical energy fell from the monster¡¯s raised hand and coalesced around their feet.

    Dolbret shook himself, ¡°Shoot it down!¡± His orders roused the nearby soldiers.

    The soldiers nearby raised their bows. The soldier next to Dolbret cried out in pain as a spear shot out of the fog. A dozen more spears shot out of the fog striking down more soldiers, and from the red mist rose an army of skeletal soldiers. Screams echoed through camp as the skeletons struck out at the wererat army.

    Fear ran down Dolbret¡¯s spine. He turned to run but something grabbed his leg. One of his dead soldiers jumped out of the fog and bit into his leg. Dolbret screamed as he drew his sword and cut off the zombies head. Blood gushed out of the wound as he limped to the wall. More zombies rose up joining the skeletons in the fight.

    Dolbret reached the wall but was stopped by the magical barrier. He saw Olmret staring at him in horror, and he slammed his fist into the barrier screaming at his brother for help. A shriek paralyzed him. Dolbret couldn¡¯t move, but he felt the claws dig into his face and the teeth sink into his neck. Pulled to the ground, Dolbret couldn¡¯t even scream as his flesh was torn away. The searing pain was the last thing he remembered.

    <hr>

    Olmret couldn¡¯t believe what he was seeing. Two-thirds of his forces sat on the other end of the magical barrier dying. He watched his brother be torn apart by the undead. He took a step back as blood flew through the barrier and splattered onto the stone at his feet. Olmret couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the slaughter in front of him, but then a pair of blazing red orbs drew his attention. He couldn¡¯t hold back the whimper that escaped his throat.

    The monster stalked towards the barrier, crushing bone and flesh underneath its clawed feet. The zombies rushed forward consuming the mangled remains of the dead. Despite the obvious signs of damage, Olmret couldn¡¯t help but tremble at the sight of the monster, especially with the undead lumbering around it. The monster stood there, staring down at the remaining army.

    ¡°Where¡¯s your courage prince?¡± the monster said cackling at them, ¡°You proclaimed yourself the future rat king, and yet, you hid yourself away while your brothers died.¡± Its echoing laughter caused Olmret¡¯s heckles to raise as he looked at the ground. ¡°Look at us!¡± Its shout caused him to flinch and step back, ¡°Pathetic, at least Skivret had the fortitude to look us in the eye.¡±

    Olmret clenched his fists, ¡°I¡¯m¡­better than¡­him,¡± he said to the floor.

    ¡°No, you¡¯re not,¡± the monster said, its laugh coming out as a high-pitched hiss, ¡°Skivret has proven himself to be your superior time, and time again. He proved himself by outsmarting us when we first met. He faced and overcame his own weakness when Nimble was captured,¡± the monster¡¯s voice turned cold, ¡°He showed sound judgement in defeating you. You, Olmret, are a failure. A pathetic creature desperately trying to hold onto what little you have left.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not pathetic,¡± Olmret said still not looking up.

    The monster stepped back from the barrier and gestured for him to approach, ¡°Then come and fight us,¡± Olmret stood still, ¡°Or are you too scared,¡± it laughed at him again. The laughter pierced Olmret¡¯s ego, and he fled down the tunnel. ¡°Keep running coward!¡± The monster¡¯s laughter chased Olmret.

    Olmret and his men retreated down the tunnels. Fear clung tightly. They were in such a rush to make it to the nearest camp that they nearly ran into the wooden wall blocking their path.

    ¡°Where¡¯d this come from?¡± Olmret said staring at the wall.

    ¡°Should we cut it down?¡± a soldier said.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have time,¡± Olmret said looking back the way they came. Fear that the monster would release the undead, he started down the side branch, ¡°This way!¡±

    Olmret kept his head on a swivel. The sewers that he called home now felt foreign to him. He flinched at every sound and screamed when he passed the shadow of a rat. This was all the monster¡¯s fault, and that filthy albino. They came to another four-way intersection, but two of the tunnels were blocked with wooden walls. He took the left tunnel, fully aware that it was taking him deeper into the monster¡¯s territory. Where are these damn walls coming from?

    An intersecting tunnel appeared and Olmret turned down the right passage. Something caught his attention, and he threw himself to the ground. Olmret heard his soldiers scream. Skivret and a dozen of him soldiers sat down the left tunnel, firing volley after volley of arrows into Olmret¡¯s retreating force. Olmret jumped forward avoiding another arrow and continued to run down the tunnel. The dying scream of his soldiers followed close behind.

    ¡°Where are you going brother!¡± Skivret¡¯s taunt echoed off the walls.

    <hr>

    Skivret watched as Olmret disappeared into the darkness. His forces finished off the last of Olmret¡¯s soldiers as they tried to claw their way down the tunnel. Everything had gone according to plan.

    ¡°Gather everything you can from the dead,¡± Skivret said, ¡°Hurry, we don¡¯t have much time. We need to meet up with the rest of our forces at Camp Dethkret.¡± He turned down the tunnel, ¡°I¡¯m going to check on master Reviled. I¡¯ll be back shortly.¡±

    Skivret rushed down the tunnels. Their ambush wasn¡¯t that far from the false camp they had quickly built. A shadowy barrier stood around the wooden walls, but the single opening allowed him to see the carnage inside.

    Skivret swallowed back the vomit trying to rise, but the thick stench of death made it difficult to fight back. Blood splattered the wood and stones. A group of zombies stood by the opening, and he watched in disgust as they cannibalized each other. One zombie was being torn apart limb from limb as the others ate it.

    ¡°Excellent work Skivret,¡± Reviled¡¯s voice drew him back, ¡°Your plan was flawless.¡±

    ¡°T-thank you master,¡± Skivret said tearing his sight away from the undead, ¡°It¡¯s time to start phase two. Will you be joining us?¡±

    ¡°Unlikely,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Killing Field will be active for a few more hours, and we don¡¯t have control over these undead, so the barrier needs to stay active.¡±

    ¡°They aren¡¯t under your control?¡±

    Reviled turned to the lumbering zombies, ¡°It¡¯s part of the spell. It¡¯s useful in creating mass numbers of undead without needing the caster to maintain the spell, but the downside is that the undead are most likely to target the caster as well.¡±

    ¡°Why aren¡¯t they targeting you?¡± Skivret said watching the zombies ignore the metallic monster.

    ¡°Because we aren¡¯t living, in the regular sense of the word,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°No matter, we¡¯ll stay here until the spell wears off. The last thing we need is an army of the undead wandering through the sewers unchecked.¡±

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll meet up with Nimble,¡± Skivret said, ¡°We need to start phase two before Olmret can send word for reinforcements.¡± He turned and ran down the passage.

    ¡°Good luck!¡±

 Rise of the King

    Olmret tore at the fur on his head, and his teeth gnashed at his recent failure. What¡¯s worse, Skivret¡¯s army was right behind him and now encircled his camp. He didn¡¯t have time to send a message out for reinforcements.

    ¡°Damn bastard, using the monster against us,¡± Olmret said, ¡°Has he no honor?¡±

    ¡°What do we sir?¡± his steward said.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know?¡±

    ¡°Sire!¡± a soldier ran up to him, ¡°The enemy has a message for you.¡±

    Olmret followed the soldier to the wall. Through the gaps, he could see the army that surrounded them. How did Skivret get metal armor for his soldiers, and those weapons were pristine. Skivret¡¯s troops were nearly five times his own, and with that equipment, victory was out of his reach. Skivret stood at the front.

    ¡°What do you want!¡± Olmret called out.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to accept your surrender,¡± Skivret called back, ¡°Your camp is surrounded. Surrender and I¡¯ll allow you and your followers to leave the sewers unharmed.¡±

    ¡°Are you mad!¡± Olmret said, spittle hanging down his chin, ¡°There¡¯s no way we can survive out in the wild.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s how it¡¯s always been,¡± Skivret said, ¡°You would have done the same thing to Dolbret and Uhlgret, right?¡±

    Olmret sneered, ¡°It¡¯d be my right as king!¡±

    ¡°But you aren¡¯t the king!¡± Skivret¡¯s laugh echoed off the wall, ¡°You¡¯re a beaten down rat cowering in your nest. You should know, I¡¯ve already sent a message to our father telling him of my victory. I¡¯m heading to Camp Radigalst after this.¡±

    Olmret scratched as his ears. It was only a matter of time before Skivret ordered his soldiers to attack, and then, he would be dead. The thought of his brother as king caused Olmret to draw blood. There had to be a way to turn this around. Skivret stood in front of his army waiting for Olmret¡¯s response, and Olmret smiled.

    ¡°Hasn¡¯t there been enough death?¡± Olmret said, ¡°Let¡¯s keep it between us in one last duel.¡±

    ¡°Very well brother. Let¡¯s end this with one last duel. You have five minutes.¡±

    ¡°I accept,¡± Olmret said then turned to his men, ¡°Get ready to open the gates, then charge that damn albino.¡± His smile grew as he drew his sword.

    Two soldiers started untying the wall as his remaining army gathered behind him. He waited then nodded at the men to open the gate. The wall parted and he charged forward with his men screaming behind him, but sharp pain blossomed in his neck. Olmret found himself staring at the ceiling of the tunnel. He gasped for breath, but his throat felt clogged with warmth seeping onto his chest. Olmret reached for his neck and felt a wooden shaft. His eyes opened in realization. He heard his men charging and prayed that they at least killed his accursed brother.

    ¡°Your ambush was painfully predictable,¡± Olmret opened his eyes and found his brother looking down at him, ¡°But then, schemes were never your strong suit,¡± Skivret leaned down and petted his brother. Olmret¡¯s vision started to blur, ¡°Goodbye brother.¡±

    <hr>

    Skivret watched as his brother took his last breath and he closed his eyes. Skivret¡¯s soldiers moved through Camp Dethkret, finishing off the rest of his brother¡¯s forces. He purposely stepped into the camp as his soldiers gathered the camp citizens together. The citizens trembled in terror.

    ¡°Gather what supplies you can,¡± Skivret said, ¡°We head to Camp Radigalst as soon as we¡¯re fully supplied.¡±

    ¡°What about them?¡± a soldier said gesturing to the citizens.

    ¡°I¡¯m not about to kill my own people,¡± Skivret said, ¡°As long as they swear loyalty to me then they are free to go about their lives.¡±

    An elderly wererat spat at him, ¡°We¡¯d never swear fealty to a damned redy-eyes.¡± The others shouted in unison.

    Skivret sighed regretfully, ¡°Then you are a threat¡­kill them.¡±

    ¡°Wait!¡± a female with a dozen children cried, ¡°Please sire, spare me and my litter. We¡¯ll swear to be loyal, just don¡¯t kill my children.¡± The others cursed her.

    Skivret approached the female, ¡°I swear on my father¡¯s name, no harm will come to you and your kin.¡±

    The female bowed deeply, ¡°Hail King Skivret.¡±

    ¡°Nimble, get her an escort back to camp,¡± Skivret turned back to the camp, his soldiers finished their task, ¡°Gather men, It¡¯s time to head out.¡±

    Skivret led his soldiers out of the ruined camp. For the first time in his life, Skivret didn¡¯t fear traversing the sewers. Before, he and his people plotted out their routes carefully since his brothers¡¯ forces would attack them, but now, the sewers were theirs. They could move without fear freely, and Skivret¡¯s mouth twitched into a smile.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

    Their footsteps echoed through the tunnels scaring the smaller life skirting by. The walls of Camp Radigalst came into view. The direct route made the trip shorter than it normally was. The wall guards pointed their spears at the approaching army.

    ¡°Move, now!¡± Skivret said. The guards stepped aside, shouldering their weapons. ¡°Single file!¡± Skivret¡¯s army shifted behind him.

    They moved through the camp, drawing the eyes of the citizens. The guards eyed them but let them pass unhindered. Skivret led his soldiers purposefully to the king¡¯s palace.

    ¡°Wait here,¡± Skivret ordered his men as he stepped into the palace. Write immediately approached him.

    ¡°Prince Skivret, what is the meaning of this!¡± Write said looking at the soldiers outside.

    ¡°My brothers are dead,¡±

    Write¡¯s ears drooped, ¡°I see, then follow me.¡±

    Write led Skivret to the throne room. The King stood in front of his throne wearing a full suit of metal armor and a large sword in his hand. He looked upon his son with both pride and determination. The King¡¯s grip tightened when his son approached.

    ¡°So, you were victorious,¡± the King said.

    ¡°Yes father,¡± Skivret said staring up at his father.

    ¡°And now you¡¯ve come for me.¡±

    Skivret¡¯s ears twitched, ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°Did you think I would hand over the throne,¡± the King said, ¡°You may be my son, but you still serve the monster. And I¡¯m not handing my kingdom over to it without a fight.¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Skivret said stepping forward, ¡°Then I¡¯ve come to challenge you for the throne.¡±

    The King turned to Write, ¡°Have the arena made ready, and let everyone know there¡¯s a challenge for the throne.¡±

    <hr>

    Skivret once again stood in the large reservoir with the crowd looking down on him, but this time his father stood against him. Skivret swung his short sword a few times as he tried shaking off the nerves. The King stood with a calm radiance. The crowd stood on the sides, a tense silence overtaking the arena.

    ¡°A challenge has been issued,¡± Write¡¯s voice echoed, ¡°Prince Skivret seeks to claim the throne from his majesty. Should he prevail, then Skivret shall ascend to the throne and all wererats shall serve him.¡±

    ¡°And all the wererats will serve the monster, Reviled Legion!¡± Skivret said, chaos erupted from the crows. ¡°We will finally prosper and take our rightful ownership of these sewers!¡±

    ¡°Is that what was promised?¡± the King called back.

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°When did you become so ambitious?¡± the King gave a small smile. ¡°We know the stakes Wright, start the match.¡±

    Write gave the signal and a guard struck the gong made from a metal pot.

    Skivret gasped as the King shot towards him with the large sword raised high, and he barely jumped out of the way as it struck the stone, but the King didn¡¯t give him any time to recover. Another powerful swing caused Skivret to dive to the floor and roll out of the way of another strike. The King was faster than his size portrayed, and the power behind his attacks would easily cleave Skivret in two.

    Skivret dashed to his feet and side stepped another attack. The King was wide open, and Skivret moved forward and struck at the King¡¯s exposed knee, but the King struck him down with a punch and followed it up by stepping on him. Skivret wheezed in pain as he rolled over to the side.

    ¡°When are you going to take this seriously,¡± the King said kicking him across the field, ¡°Being king isn¡¯t just about sitting on a throne, it¡¯s a fight to the death,¡± Skivret rose to his feet coughing up blood, ¡°The fight for the throne will never end. Detractors, dissidents, everyone will come for you, and you must be strong enough to fight them off!¡±

    Skivret wiped the blood from his mouth and charged. He couldn¡¯t best his father in strength, but he might in speed. Skivret dodged another strike from his father¡¯s sword, but his father followed it up with a kick. Skivret dodged the kick and struck the exposed leg. His sword drew blood. Skivret rand behind his father and cut the backside of the other leg, but the King¡¯s tail struck his back. Skivret rolled with the strike and quickly recovered.

    Skivret continued with his dash and slash style, but his shallow cuts weren¡¯t doing much against the King. The same couldn¡¯t be said for Skivret¡¯s wounds. It hurt to breathe, and he could still taste blood. His tactic wasn¡¯t working. Skivret took a deep breath, ignoring the searing pain, and charged again. The King slashed at him, and Skivret ducked under running on all fours. He dashed around to his father¡¯s back and shoved his blade deep into his father¡¯s legs. The King screamed in pain. Skivret tore his blade down his father¡¯s leg to the ankle. The King fell to his knee and tried to reach around to grab Skivret. Skivret jumped on the King¡¯s back and crawled up to his neck and drove his sword into the King¡¯s neck. The King grabbed hold of Skivret. Skivret drove his sword deeper into the King¡¯s neck. The King groaned in pain and released his grip.

    ¡°Goodnight father,¡± Skivret said pulling his sword free.

    The King fell to the floor, blood pooling around him. Silence fell over the arena.

    ¡°The match is over,¡± Write¡¯s voice broke the silence, ¡°All hail the King!¡±

    ¡°All hail the King!¡± the crowd chanted over and over.

    Write climbed into the pit, ¡°Congratulations on your victory,¡± he said, ¡°I¡¯ll have a healer treat you once we¡¯re back at the palace.¡±

    ¡°Thanks, Write,¡± Skivret said looking at his father¡¯s body, ¡°Prep his body so that we can give him a proper burial.¡±

    ¡°Understood sir,¡±

    Skivret looked up at Nimble, ¡°Send a messenger back to camp. Let them know I am now king.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir!¡± Nimble ran off.

    <hr>

    Reviled sat in Skivret¡¯s tent looking at the map. The atmosphere in the camp was tense, what with all soldiers out fighting. Cappy sat next to the machine scratching Antwuan¡¯s head and the ant chirped happily. Reviled loosed a low growl at the scene.

    ¡°Masta¡¯,¡± Blegt ran into the tent, ¡°A messenger just arrived. The sire bested his father and brother. He¡¯s now king!¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Reviled said picking up the mushroom. Antwuan clicked angrily and crawled up its body to rest on Reviled¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Have Preddie meet us at the gate. We¡¯ll have her lead us to the main camp.¡±

    Blegt bowed and ran off. Reviled headed to the gate and waited for the white wererat. It didn¡¯t take long for the female wererat to arrive alongside with her family.

    ¡°Sorry to keep you waiting master,¡± Preddie said, ¡°My family wanted to join us.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about,¡± Reviled said turning to the gate, ¡°Please lead the way.¡±

    Preddie walked in step with Reviled as she led him through the tunnels. She would occasionally look up at the monster, but she didn¡¯t say anything. Her family followed behind in silence.

    ¡°You were originally from the main camp, correct,¡± Reviled said turning to the white rat.

    ¡°Yes master,¡± Preddie said with a broken smile, ¡°We had to leave because of prince Olmret, but now that sire is the king¡­¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to return,¡± Rench said with a large smile, ¡°I¡¯ll have access to more materials.¡±

    ¡°This is just the beginning,¡± Reviled said, ¡°The wererats will have a new era of prosperity under us.¡±

    ¡°Truly?¡± Preddie said looking up at the monster.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Under us, the wererats will have control over the entire sewers. Meaning you¡¯ll be the first to reap to rewards from our organization.¡±

    ¡°We look forward to seeing it,¡± Rench said.

    ¡°So do we.¡±

 Recon Party

    Oria walked down the bustling slum streets, it was part of her daily routine to walk the streets. The people grumbled about their pay, the lack of guards to protect them, and of course, taxes. Then, there were the whispers that no one wanted to hear. The people shifting uncomfortably in front of alleys. The dried stains of blood on the stone, and the undertakers carting away dead bodies. Gang activity in the slums had increased rapidly, and the citizens were afraid. Oria¡¯s walks were enlightening, they helped her keep an eye on the city¡¯s pulse, but she needed to know more.

    Oria stepped into an alley, one she knew well, that led to a storage area. The laughter of children came from the rickety wooden fort built in the center, and it echoed off the stone walls. One kid sat in the lookout tower, asleep. The boy shook himself awake and looked down at Oria in confusion, then rang the dented bell at his side furiously. The laughter stopped and was replaced with the slamming of the fort¡¯s doors.

    ¡°What is it?¡± a voice came from within the fort.

    ¡°There¡¯s a lady out here,¡± the lookout said. Oria smiled and waved at him which caused him to blush, ¡°A pretty one.¡±

    ¡°What!¡± a commotion came from inside and another boy¡¯s head appeared over the wall. His unruly brown hair hung over his eyes, and freckles dotted his nose. He wore a crooked crown made from a copper pot.

    ¡°What¡¯s with the treatment Teddy,¡± Oria said with a pout, ¡°You¡¯re hurting my feelings.¡±

    ¡°Babe, sweetie, we didn¡¯t mean anything by it,¡± Teddy said blushing heavily through his wide grin, ¡°Had I known you were coming, I would have given you a royal welcome.¡± Teddy looked down, ¡°Open the gates, its Oria!¡±

    The fort gates opened, and a group of children stormed out as they greeted her passionately. Several of the older children brought out chairs made from barrels and crates. Teddy walked out, trying to look regal, with his arms opened wide. He was the oldest of the children, just on the verge of adulthood.

    ¡°How have thing been Teddy?¡± Oria said, taking a seat on the largest crate.

    Teddy sat next to her, ¡°Thing have been good, despite everything,¡± he said wrapping an arm around her waist, ¡°Also, it is Thaddeus now. I need people to respect me.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re still Teddy to me,¡± Oria pinched his cheek, ¡°Besides,¡± she looked at his hand resting on her hip, ¡°I¡¯m still good friends with your sister.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that babe,¡± Teddy said leaning into her and playfully pinching her hip, ¡°The last thing I need is for her scold me again. It makes me the laughingstock of the entire brothel.¡±

    ¡°Then be good and answer my questions,¡± Oria said with a sweet smile, ¡°If I like what I hear, then I might reward you.¡±

    Teddy¡¯s face turned dark red, ¡°What do you want to know?¡±

    ¡°Do you know why the gangs have been acting up?¡±

    ¡°You can thank Samon Blackhammer,¡± Teddy said with a sneer, ¡°He is trying to take control of the slums by taking out the smaller gangs. He has taken over a few gangs, but mostly he is weeding out the competition. You ain¡¯t looking to join up, are you?¡±

    ¡°Virtues no!¡± Oria laughed, ¡°The last thing I want is to be some noble¡¯s lapdog.¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Teddy said, ¡°You should probably stay away from the gambling den for a few days. Samon is hosting a party for the gangs that he¡¯s taken over.¡±

    ¡°Good to know.¡±

    ¡°So, have I impressed you?¡± Teddy gave her goofy lopsided grin, ¡°Because I was thinking we could spend a lovely night together.¡±

    ¡°Maybe when you¡¯re a bit older. For now, you¡¯ll have to settle for this,¡± Oria leaned down and kissed his cheek. All the blood rushed to Teddy¡¯s face as Oria got up from the crate. ¡°Thanks for the info, Teddy.¡±

    Oria stepped back onto the street and headed towards the nearest sewer gate. Everything made sense now. Decker had many officers underneath him, and Samon Blackhammer was possibly the most ruthless. Decker was serious about securing the slums. That wasn¡¯t good for the Legion.

    She slipped into the sewer and summoned the rat familiar. It led her down tunnels she had never traveled before, due to the wererats being territorial, and she found herself in front of the largest camp she had ever seen. The two guards up front pointed their spears at her.

    ¡°What ya want human?¡±

    Oria stood tall and offered a vicious smile, ¡°I¡¯m here to see the monster,¡±

    The rats¡¯ fur furled, and they lowered their spears, ¡°How many more humans are there,¡± the left guard growled, ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Oria followed closely behind the guard. She heard the rumors about the Rat King¡¯s camp, but she hadn¡¯t believed them. It was far livelier than she expected. It reminded her of the slums above in a way with the colorful lanterns and tents. Vendors selling their wares off to the side, and random musicians playing. However, the wererats weren¡¯t keen on her presence. The wererat citizens gave her a wide berth and they stared at her with fear and contempt. Oria wasn¡¯t concerned with easing them, and let the guard continue to lead her. He stopped in front of a large multicolored tent.

    ¡°Here ya are,¡± the guard said, ¡°The monster¡¯s inside.¡± He left before Oria could say anything.

    Oria was surprised to see that the tent was large enough for her to walk through, and it¡¯s opulent nature contrasted with its surroundings. An elderly wererat approached her with a stern glare.

    ¡°Another human,¡± he said pulling his whiskers, ¡°I take it you¡¯re here for the monster. This way.¡± He headed deeper into the tent.

    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± Oria said looking down at the withered rat.

    ¡°Write, I am his majesty¡¯s top advisor.¡±

    ¡°Skivret finally grew a pair,¡± she chuckled, ¡°Good for him.¡±

    ¡°You will show his majesty respect!¡± Write growled at her, ¡°You won¡¯t always have the monster¡¯s protection.¡±

    Oria smiled wickedly at him, ¡°You got some bite,¡± she said, ¡°Very well, I¡¯ll show king Skivret the respect he deserves.¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Write continued and stopped in front of a closed flap, ¡°The others are already inside. Is there anything you desire?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m good,¡± Oria said stepping into the room.

    Oria stepped into the room and found a well-furnished throne room. The golden furniture stood out against the canvas walls, but her sight quickly turned to the group sitting next to the throne. Skivret sat on the throne with Nimble and Preddie on either side. Kogna and Mina sat to the side, Mina tending to her instrument while Kogna sharpened his sword. Meridith sat next to Reviled going over a stack of papers.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

    ¡°I see everyone¡¯s made themselves at home,¡± Oria said.

    ¡°We need the wererats to accept humans,¡± Reviled said not looking at her, ¡°They¡¯re going to be a key part of our organization.¡±

    ¡°And how do you wish to use my people?¡± Skivret said looking to the monster.

    ¡°We need your people to act as enforcers,¡± Reviled said, ¡°As well as use your camps as warehouses to store goods.¡±

    ¡°There may be a issue with that,¡± Oria said clearing her throat. Reviled finally looked up from the papers, and Oria shivered under the piercing red gaze. ¡°One of Decker¡¯s officers is making a move on the slums.¡±

    Reviled handed Meridith the papers and gestured for Oria to approach, ¡°Elaborate.¡±

    Oria sat on Reviled¡¯s other side, ¡°Decker¡¯s chief enforcer, Samon Blackhammer, is trying to establish order over the slums by taking out the smaller gangs that have appeared. If he succeeds then we won¡¯t stand much of a chance taking over the slums, even with the rats.¡±

    Reviled¡¯s eyes dimmed, ¡°We have knowledge on the name, but nothing substantial,¡± it said, ¡°How successful has he been?¡±

    ¡°He is throwing a party to welcome the gangs that joined him,¡± Oria said, ¡°And to give a final warning to the gangs that haven¡¯t.¡±

    ¡°This puts us at a disadvantage,¡± Kogna said wiping the oil from his blade, ¡°This Samon has secured his position as the superior power. It¡¯s safe to say most of the smaller gangs will side with him, leaving only the foolish and defiant. Those don¡¯t make great allies.¡±

    ¡°We won¡¯t know for certain without checking it out first,¡± All eyes turned to Oria.

    ¡°What are you suggesting?¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°We should send in a recon party.¡±

    <hr>

    Oria checked her appearance for the hundredth time in the carriages window. She didn¡¯t normally have chances to doll herself up, but when she did, she went all out. The loose light blue dress barely hung on her frame, and showed more skin than was considered appropriate. The waves of gold jewelry that hung off her complimented her outfit wonderfully. After all, no one would expect a thief to dress like this.

    ¡°Aren¡¯t you cold?¡± Mina said pulling her fur cloak tighter around her. Both siblings wore exquisite black and gold robes.

    ¡°Of course I am,¡± Oria said blowing on her fingers, ¡°But it¡¯s a sacrifice I need to make for this mission.¡±

    ¡°Sound like vanity to me,¡± Kogna said adjusting his sash.

    Oria flipped him off which caused Kogna to laugh. ¡°Remember, we¡¯re here to learn everything we can. Keep your ears out for anything that can help us.¡±

    The carriage rocked to a halt, and the footman opened the door. Oria took hold of Kogna¡¯s left arm while Mina took his right, and they walked into the gambling den. Despite it being in the lower city, the hall was decorated with golden chandeliers. Courtesans, carrying trays of food and drink, moved seamlessly through the crowds. Mina blushed deeply at their exposed flesh.

    ¡°Get used to this Min,¡± Oria gave the girl a small smile, ¡°This is part of the job.¡±

    ¡°I-I understand,¡± Mina said steeling her resolve. Oria smiled proudly at the girl.

    ¡°Which one is our target?¡± Kogna said, is sharp gaze scanning the crowd.

    ¡°Him,¡± Oria gestured to the large man standing at a dice table. His head was completely shaved except for a strip that ran down the middle of his head. Intricate tattoos decorated the shaved sides of his head and his muscular arms. ¡°That¡¯s Samon Blackhammer.¡±

    ¡°Then let¡¯s go say hello,¡± Kogna led the girls to the dice table.

    Oria kept her ears out as they moved through the crowd. ¡°Do you think the Red Fangs will show?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯d be fools if they did. They¡¯re disgraced by the King, it¡¯s only a matter of time before they disband.¡±

    Oria smiled. The theft of the cursed gear shook Decker¡¯s organization. It also explained why Decker was trying to secure the lower city.

    Kogna stopped a few feet from the table and watched as Samon and another man threw a pair of dice onto the table. Samon rolled a nine while his opponent rolled a three. The crowd cheered as Samon roared victoriously. The game master passed the multicolored wooden chips towards Samon.

    ¡°So higher number wins,¡± Kogna said with a sly smile.

    ¡°Yep,¡± Oria said, ¡°Demuire¡¯s luck is a popular game in most dens.¡±

    Samon looked over the gathered crowd, ¡°Come on!¡± he said, ¡°Does anyone else want to play.¡± He wrapped his arms around two beautiful women. The crowd responded with polite smiles, but no one approached.

    ¡°Why not,¡± Kogna said pulling both girls to the table.

    Oria stared in shock. She hadn¡¯t spent much time with the swordsman, but when she did, he often had a stoic, almost bored expression. Now, he had a toothy, vicious grin on his face, and his eyes carried a spark.

    ¡°Don¡¯t overdo it,¡± Mina whispered to her brother.

    ¡°I don¡¯t recognize you,¡± Samon returned the smile with one of his own, ¡°Aren¡¯t you a bit far from the ocean, windman?¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± Kogna said, ¡°Had some business on this virtue forsaken rock, Baru¡¯muren.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a gold minimum sir,¡± the game master said.

    Kogna threw several gold pieces onto the table, ¡°Ten should suffice,¡±

    ¡°Brother!¡± Mina gritted her teeth.

    Oria couldn¡¯t help but laugh, ¡°Damn, I didn¡¯t expect this from you.¡±

    The game master passed Kogna a set of green, red, and yellow chips. Samon and Kogna threw two red chips onto the center of the table. Kogna picked up the dice and placed them in front of Oria. She smiled and gently blew on them. After shaking them a few times, both men tossed their die. Samon rolled a ten. Kogna a twelve. The crowd stared in disbelief as the game master slid the chips to Kogna.

    ¡°Beginner¡¯s luck,¡± Kogna said with a wicked smile.

    ¡°Whose luck,¡± Samon said with a tight smile, ¡°Yours, or hers.¡±

    The two continued to play. Victory passed between each of them, but it was clear that Kogna was winning. Oria kept listened to the crowd, but they had nothing interesting to say other than the Red Fangs disgrace, but the whores hanging off Samon¡¯s arm caught her attention. Despite trying to hide it, they both stared intently at Mina. Oria waved a server down and grabbed the last two drinks. Another server brought a drink for Mina. Oria handed the glass to Kogna, and he drained it in a single gulp while both women sipped theirs.

    Mina placed down her glass. Her eyes looked dulled, ¡°I¡­need to excuse¡­myself,¡± she said.

    A servant gently touched her, ¡°I can show you to a powder room?¡±

    ¡°T-thank you,¡± Mina smiled weakly as she followed the servant.

    Oria tapped Kogna¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Kogna¡­I think¡­¡±

    ¡°All or nothing!¡± Samon threw all his chips in. The crowd gasped and looked expectantly at Kogna, ¡°You gonna¡¯ back out?¡± Samon smiled viciously.

    ¡°Kogna,¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Kogna threw his chips in, ¡°Its time to end this game anyways.¡±

    The two men threw their dice across the table. The wooden cubes bounced, and the first one came to a stop. Samon¡¯s first dice landed on a two. The second dice to stop was Kogna¡¯s which ended up a three. Samon¡¯s second was a six giving him a total of eight. Kogna¡¯s second dice slowed and teetered on the edge. Kogna¡¯s smile grew as the dice landed. Six white dots stared back at everyone. Samon pounded his fist onto the table causing the wood to splinter.

    ¡°Would you like to pay out?¡± the game master said eyeing Samon fearfully.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Kogna said. The game master pulled out thirty gold coins from his lockbox and slid them over. ¡°We should do this again sometime.¡± Kogna gave Samon a sly grin as he pulled Oria away.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to get Mina,¡± Oria said giving Kogna a stern look, ¡°Go to the door and wait for us.¡±

    Kogna nodded as Oria headed to the powder room. It sat in back of the den with a velvet curtain separating it from the hall. Oria pushed inside and was struck with the sweet scent of incense. Several women sat around fanning themselves as they rested, but Mina was nowhere to be found.

    Oria flagged down the room¡¯s attendant, the same one who brought Mina back, ¡°I¡¯m looking for my companion, a Amu¡¯Ryjin woman.¡±

    The attendant gave her a polite smile, ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am, but I haven¡¯t seen a woman fitting that description.¡±

    Oria glared at her, ¡°Don¡¯t give me that!¡± she said, ¡°You¡¯re the one who took her.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am, but I can¡¯t help you.¡±

    Oria stormed out of the room and headed back to the front. Kogna stood there keeping an eye on the crowd. Fear snuck into his eyes when he saw Oria approach alone.

    ¡°Mina¡¯s missing,¡± she whispered to him.

    ¡°We can¡¯t leave without her!¡± Kogna snarled as he looked around.

    ¡°Something the matter,¡± Samon approached with a wide grin.

    Kogna glared at the man, ¡°Our other companion is missing,¡± he said.

    ¡°What companion,¡± Samons eyed Oria with a hungry smile, ¡°Oria¡¯s the only one who accompanied you.¡± Kogna stepped forward but was held back by Oria. ¡°You know,¡± Samon said scratching his chin, ¡°I think the Rose Garden will be getting a new girl soon. Maybe you should check it out in a few weeks.¡±

    Oria struggled to hold Kogna back, ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± she said keeping her voice low, ¡°We should inform the boss and let him deal with this. You know how he gets when he¡¯s pissed.¡±

    Kogna stopped struggling, but his glare never left Samon, ¡°Fine,¡± he said as Oria pulled him away.

    Oria didn¡¯t look forward to telling Reviled about this. She still had nightmares about that time at the thieves guild, but he was the only one who could find her.

 The Legion retaliates

    Oria sat at the table in Meridith¡¯s house. Her foot tapped rapidly against the floor as she watched Kogna pace furiously around. Meridith sat across from her with her head in her hands. The atmosphere weighed heavily on all of them.

    Kogna kicked the table, ¡°Why aren¡¯t we trying to find Mina!¡± he said glaring down at the red-headed woman.

    Meridith took a deep breath before looking up at him, ¡°And where do you think she is?¡± she said. She had a green tinge to skin in the early morning light.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I¡¯ll find her,¡±

    ¡°No, you won¡¯t,¡± Meridith said, ¡°She was taken by Decker¡¯s men, which means she could be anywhere in the city.¡±

    Oria brushed her hair, ¡°Then what do we do?¡±

    Meridith¡¯s glare caused Oria to flinch, ¡°You¡¯ve done enough,¡± she said, ¡°Master Reviled is the only one who can find her,¡± she turned to the shadow sitting on the table, ¡°You can find her, right?¡±

    Two red beady eyes stared back at her, ¡°Of course,¡± Reviled said through his familiar, ¡°We have our familiars scouring the city for any traces of her, but it would be easier if she called for us.¡±

    ¡°Mina said she wasn¡¯t feeling well¡­after she drank something,¡± Oria said gritting her teeth, ¡°Fuck! They drugged her right under my nose.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s done is done,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We need you and Kogna to get some rest. We¡¯ll contact you when we¡¯ve heard something. And Kogna,¡± the swordsman stared intently at the rat, ¡°Save that rage for when it¡¯s needed.¡±

    ¡°Yes, master,¡± Kogna said.

    The familiar dissipated. Oria tried to stop herself from yawning, but the monster was right. She was up all night worrying over Mina. She needed rest, quick.

    ¡°Take Mina¡¯s room,¡± Meridith said, ¡°That way we can all be here when he calls.¡±

    <hr>

    Mina had trouble opening her eyes. They felt heavy, and there was a weight in her stomach. Slowly, she sat up, and cool air brushed against her soft skin. Mina¡¯s mind stirred and it finally dawned on her that she wasn¡¯t in her room, and she wasn¡¯t wearing any clothes. She pulled the sheets up to cover her exposed skin.

    The bed itself was a wide bed for two with silk sheets. A fine screen sat at the foot of the bed with her robes hanging from on a clothes rack. On the other end of the room was an empty washbasin next to the cold fireplace. Her reflection stared back at her from the expensive vanity. There was a knock at the door and a woman, a few years older than her, walked into the room.

    ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± she said with a warm smile, ¡°I¡¯ll let Madam Reina know.¡±

    ¡°Wait!¡± Mina said, ¡°Where am I?¡±

    ¡°Madam Reina will tell you everything.¡±

    The young woman closed the door behind her. Mina wrapped herself in the sheets and hugged her knees. She tried to think back to the previous night. She remembered the gambling den, and Kogna playing, but that was about it. She couldn¡¯t remember coming to this place. Fear started gnawing at her heart. What happened to Kogna and Oria? What were these people going to do to her? Would she ever see her friends again? Mina couldn¡¯t stop the tears from streaming down her face as she buried her head in her arms. The door opened and she looked up to see a beautiful woman with grey and brown hair enter the room with two men.

    ¡°Afternoon, little songbird,¡± she said, ¡°Sleep well?¡±

    ¡°Where am I?¡± Mina said pushing herself against the wall.

    ¡°Your home,¡± she said with a lovely smile, ¡°This is my garden where I gather beautiful women. Here, everyone will be able to enjoy you.¡±

    ¡°N-no¡­I don¡¯t want to¡­be here,¡± Mina said through tears.

    The woman gave her a smirk, ¡°Little songbird,¡± she said pulling out a wand, ¡°What you want is irrelevant.¡± The two men pulled Mina away from the wall and held her down against the bed. The woman pulled the sheet away, and Mina whimpered at being exposed. ¡°This will all be over once I¡¯ve dealt with this,¡± the woman brushed the wand¡¯s tip against Mina¡¯s slave crest, ¡°This will be over soon.¡±

    The wand glowed a dark gold, its light clashing against the dark red of Mina¡¯s slave crest. Mina screamed as the pain rolling through her body caused her back to arch. The men shifted their hands to get a better grip. Their thick, sweaty hands brought back terrible memories.

    Mina was taken back to Delilah¡¯s tavern, bound to a bed as the tavern owner branded her with a slave crest. In that same bed, men she never knew touched her. Their touch lingered on her skin and made her feel perpetually filthy. In that same bed, she cried herself to sleep when the men left. The self-hatred eating away at her heart, the same hatred that brought the dagger to her throat, but Delilah stopped her with a single command.

    The pained stopped as the woman pulled the wand away, ¡°That¡¯s unfortunate,¡± she said pouting, ¡°Someone clearly valued you, my little songbird. A crest this strong can only be cast by a powerful mage.¡±

    Trapped in the memories, Mina cried, ¡°Brother¡­brother!¡±

    She remembered Kogna coming to save her, only for him to be taken away in chains. If he couldn¡¯t save her, then who could. Mina closed her eyes shut, and in the darkness, she stared into two piercing red eyes. Eyes that once made her flinch, but now she brought comfort. Would he come? Would he save me? The questions echoed through her heart.

    ¡°M-Master!¡± Mina cried with all her might.

    She lay there waiting for something to happen. Doubt dogged her, but she prayed for him to crash through the door. Then, there was a cry of pain, and the weight of the two men eased off Mina¡¯s body. Free from their grasps, Mina pushed herself across the bed and against the wall. She tried to cover herself by wrapping her arms around herself.

    The two men backed away from the bed. One held his left hand which had an unnatural red hue with thick black veins disappearing into the sleeves. He was screaming in pain and when he pulled his other hand away, it tore chunks of flesh with it. The woman looked at the wounded man, then at the one who caused it. A shadowy black rat stood on the bed with its heckles raised and its tail swaying in anger.

    ¡°You hurt her,¡± Reviled¡¯s voice came from the rat, ¡°You caused her pain. How dare you!¡±

    The woman sneered at the rat, ¡°A familiar protector,¡± she said, ¡°Who do you think you are?¡±

    ¡°We are Reviled Legion,¡± it said, ¡°And this girl belongs to us.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re the leader of the Legion?¡± the woman said with a condescending smile, ¡°You poor fool, do you really think you can win against the king?¡±

    Reviled¡¯s laugh echoed through the room, ¡°You know nothing, whore,¡± it said, ¡°We exist because of Decker¡¯s hubris. We will be his downfall, and we¡¯ll start with you.¡±

    The woman growled, ¡°You have some nerve. First, you lay claim to my songbird, then you threaten me! Come then, come, and get her yourself.¡±

    ¡°Gladly,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Hold on a little longer Mina. We¡¯re coming to get you.¡± The rat faded away.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get you ready my songbird,¡± the woman said, ¡°We need to get you ready for tonight.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled stared down into the bone pit. It knew where Mina was, but how was it going to save her? Reviled looked down at its missing left arm. A low growl followed. Trying to save Mina would be difficult in its current state, and the chances weren¡¯t looking good. If only it could repair itself.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    Reviled pulled out Melgareth¡¯s spell book from the satchel at its side and started flipping through the pages. The necromancer had collected many illegal spells when he was alive. Surely, there was one that could be of use. It stopped on a page at the back of the book.

    Form Necrosis:

    Utilize necrotic energy to mold flesh and bone into whatever the caster wills. (Of little us)

    Reviled stared at the handwritten note. Of course, Melgareth thought this spell was useless. His focus on merging necromancy with machinery often led him to ignore the fundamentals of craft, but this could be what Reviled needs.

    ¡°You found Mina!¡± Reviled looked up to see Meridith, Kogna, and Oria approach.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We¡¯re going to save her tonight,¡± a familiar formed at its feet, ¡°Kogna, Oria follow the familiar and wait for our signal.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean wait?¡± Kogna growled, ¡°We need to save her now!¡±

    ¡°Do as you¡¯re told!¡± Reviled said, ¡°You and Oria are crucial to this plan, understand.¡±

    Kogna took a deep breath, ¡°Yes, master,¡± he said as he turned to follow Oria and the rat.

    Meridith stepped forward, ¡°What should I do?¡±

    ¡°Return home and be ready to treat any wounds,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Maybe prepare some treats, and a warm bath. Mina will need it.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡± Meridith turned to leave but looked over her shoulder, ¡°Be careful¡­please.¡±

    Reviled watched her leave, then turned back to the pit. It dove into the magic core and had the souls begin the spell. Necrotic energy poured from its right hand into the pit, and the bones rose up and started circling around it. Reviled found controlling the magic to be difficult since none of the spellcasters in its possession have ever used this spell. It started by trying to fit a skeletal arm into the missing socket on its left side, but when it released the energy, the arm fell to the floor. Reviled growled as it started over again.

    Reviled tried fitting an arm into the socket again, but it resulted in another failure. The problem being that it had to keep necrotic energy flowing from its body to keep the arm in place. It was inefficient and meant that it couldn¡¯t divert its attention away from the spell. It needed a way permanent source of energy outside of itself, like when it raises the undead.

    ¡°Why did we not think of that sooner?¡± Reviled growled.

    Reviled had the lesser casters focus on preparing Raise Undead while using Melgareth on Form Necrosis. However, another problem arose. The necrotic core that powered the undead needed secure housing. It was often stored within the chest so that the energy could be spread evenly throughout but housing it in an arm would make the core unstable. Two large ribcages flew out of the pit, and the necrotic energy broke them into four pieces that attached themselves to Reviled¡¯s torso, then the arm was attached next. Reviled felt the necrotic energy coat its torso as a modified Raise Undead was cast. The modified spell allowed for the creation of a necrotic core but allowed Reviled to directly control the arm. There was a delay in its control that was quickly resolved with a few modifications. Now, it had a fully functional left arm and hand. Reviled looked down at the pit.

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°Why stop here,¡±

    More bones flew out of the pit. Slowly and meticulously, the bones were fused onto Reviled¡¯s new exoskeleton. It tested each new addition before moving onto the next one. After a few hours, Reviled looked over its work.

    ¡°We hope Skivret has a large enough cloak.¡± Its laughter echoed off the walls.

    <hr>

    Mina sat at a table on the second-floor balcony of the small parlor with her tied hands on her lap. Mina wore a sheer silk dress that showed off more skin than she liked, and her face felt heavy from the make-up. Reina had spent hours getting her ready for tonight. The two dozen thugs hungrily eyed the helpless girl in their midst.

    ¡°I wonder what¡¯s taking him so long?¡± Reina said sitting next to her, ¡°My men are starting to get restless.¡±

    Mina shivered as the men next to her chuckled. ¡°He¡¯ll be¡­here,¡± she said, ¡°Honesty is one of his virtues.¡±

    ¡°Good.¡±

    Mina stared at the double doors of the parlor. She could see the darkness of night through the window. He¡¯ll be here shortly. The doorknob rattled causing everyone to stop and stare, then the doors burst open. A tall being shrouded in a large, hooded cloak stepped into the room. The heavy steps of metal on wood echoed through the room.

    ¡°Master Reviled!¡± Mina stood but was forced back down. The figure shifted to look up at them.

    ¡°Took you long enough,¡± Reina said leaning against the railing, ¡°Only the Virtues know what would have happened to her had you waited any longer.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re tired of hearing you speak, Decker¡¯s whore,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Return Mina to us, now.¡±

    ¡°Then come get her,¡± Reina said snapping her fingers.

    The ten men on the second floor drew their crossbows and fired down on him. Most of the bolts missed but Reviled shrugged off the few that struck.

    Reina started clapping, ¡°You came prepared,¡± she said, ¡°But how long can you keep powering those enhancement spells.¡±

    ¡°As long as we need,¡± Reviled threw off the cloak.

    Mina stared at the monster. Reviled wore an exoskeleton made from human bones with a left arm attached, but that¡¯s not what caught everyone¡¯s attention. Six skeletal arms protruded from its back with a bony tail curling around its feet. The thugs on the ground floor stepped back from the monstrosity.

    ¡°Damned Prison, what is that?¡± Reina said stepping away from the railing.

    Taking advantage of everyone¡¯s shock, Reviled rushed towards the closest thug. Reviled¡¯s top two arms grabbed the thug by the head while the middle arms grabbed his arms, and the lower arms grabbed his legs. The thug screamed in pain as he was lifted off the ground. Despite the screams, Mina could hear the tearing and ripping of flesh, and the thug¡¯s cries peaked when his limbs were torn from his body. Then, the screams ceased when Reviled crushed the man¡¯s head. The body fell to the floor.

    Reina shook away the shock, ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there,¡± she said, ¡°Kill it!¡±

    The thugs eyed the monster wearily, but a young man drew what courage he had and charged forward. This encouraged the others to advance. Unfortunately for them, their courage was in vain. Reviled tore through crowd. His bony claws tore out throats and pierced chests. One thug tried to sneak up behind it, only for the skeletal tail to stab him through the eye. Reina turned pale as the blood flew everywhere painting the walls, floor, and ceiling red. Reviled jumped up to the second floor using the arms on its back to pull itself over the railing.

    ¡°Stop it!¡± Reina screamed at the guards around her. She grabbed one by the arm, ¡°Grab the girl and follow me.¡±

    Mina felt the rough hands pull her away, ¡°Master!¡±

    Reviled screamed in anger as it charged forward, but the remaining thugs blocked the way. Mina tried to fight back, but the thug pulling her was too strong. Reina led them into a back hallway and down the back stairs to the first floor and out the back. At the back of the parlor was a carriage. The footman hurriedly opened the door when he noticed them rush out of the building.

    ¡°No!¡± Mina screamed as she desperately fought back. She heard the dress tear but that didn¡¯t matter. She¡¯d rather be naked than get in the carriage.

    ¡°Damn it, get in this carriage!¡± Reina said, ¡°You¡¯re¨C¡±

    A figure dashed out of the shadows and tackled Mina pulling her free from the thug¡¯s grasp. The thug reached out to grab them, but he suddenly was cut in half as a gust of wind blew through the street.

    Reina jumped into the carriage and pounded on the front, ¡°Go!¡±

    Reina fell to the floor as the horses bolted down the streets. Another blast of wind blew down the street, and Reina screamed as the top of her carriage was cut free. Reina peeked over the carriage¡¯s side and saw the driver barely holding onto the horses pulling the carriage. The footman was missing.

    Mina cried as the person held her. She looked up and saw golden hair tucked underneath the leather hood, and a pair of grey eyes looking over her.

    ¡°You alright Min?¡± Oria said, pulling her to her feet.

    ¡°Y-yes,¡±

    Kogna rushed over and took Mina into his arms, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, ¡°I didn¡¯t keep you safe.¡±

    ¡°Brother!¡± Mina held onto tightly as she cried into his shoulder. She heard footsteps at the door.

    ¡°Good,¡± Everyone looked towards Reviled, ¡°You were able to grab her.¡±

    ¡°Damn boss,¡± Oria said eyeing the monster wearily. It was covered in blood and still had the exoskeleton, ¡°You really went all out.¡±

    ¡°Of course we did,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We won¡¯t ever hold back when one of our own needs us.¡± It turned its gaze to Mina, ¡°That whore didn¡¯t do anything to you, did she?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Mina said wiping her eyes, ¡°I was brought here once your familiar left. Then she had me put all this on.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re unharmed, good,¡± Reviled¡¯s tension eased, ¡°Oria, get her back to Meridith. Kogna, you¡¯re with us. We need to deliver a message to Samon Blackhammer.¡±

    ¡°Understood master,¡±

    <hr>

    The morning light brushed against Samon¡¯s eyelids, and he stretched as he let out a yawn. His hands rested on the plump asses of the two prostitutes sleeping next to him. He paid Reina good money to have both, and it was money well spent. Samon slipped out the bed and headed downstairs.

    Samon was glad that he made the gambling den his headquarters. All his vices could easily be fulfilled here. Of course, the hall wasn¡¯t empty. Dozens of drunken gang members littered the floor. Samon was going to throw parties all week, that way, he knew for certain which gangs would oppose him. The inebriated moans of his men caused him to chuckle, but there was a smell that caused him to retch.

    ¡°Shecoga¡¯s grace, what is that?¡± Samon said looking around.

    The gambling hall usually smelled of piss and vomit in the early mornings, but this stench wasn¡¯t that. It was closer to the smell of rotting flesh. A smell he knew well when he first started out. Samon searched through the hall but couldn¡¯t see anything, but he did notice a group of people standing outside through a window.

    Samon opened the front door and reeled back at the sight. A pile of thirty heads stared at up him. The faces stuck in perpetual horror. Samon growled and started looking down the street, but the only thing he noticed was the letter pinned to the door by a dagger.

    The Legion is coming, was written in dark red ink. No, blood.

    Samon crumpled up the note as he slammed the door shut. ¡°Get up!¡± his shouting stirred the drunks awake.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong boss?¡±

    ¡°The Legion just issued a challenge,¡± Samon threw the note on the ground, ¡°And we¡¯re going to oblige them.¡±

 The Hero We Need

    Bartholomew sat at his desk going over the reports. Despite his nightly duties as Jericho¡¯s king, he still had a legitimate business to run. For the most part everything was going well. The sewer crews have stated that the wererats haven¡¯t been acting up, shipments have been arriving on time, and his storefronts are turning in a decent profit. Not to mention, the monster hasn¡¯t shown its face in nearly a month. Bartholomew was grateful for a little peace and quiet.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry madam Reina but I can¡¯t let you in without an appointment.¡±

    ¡°Out of my way Davus! I need to speak with Bartholomew this instant.¡±

    Bartholomew took a calming breath just as the door burst open. Reina stormed into the office. Her knuckles were white from clenched fists, and she stared daggers at him.

    ¡°Lovely to see you again Reina,¡± Bartholomew said hiding his frustration behind a polite smile, ¡°Is there something you need?¡±

    Reina slammed her hands onto the desk, ¡°Don¡¯t give me that!¡± Reina said, ¡°You have some explaining to do.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about,¡±

    ¡°Reviled Legion,¡± Reina said the name slowly.

    ¡°Leave us, Davus,¡± Bartholomew said. He waited for Davus to close the door behind him. He pinched his nose in frustration, ¡°I knew things were going too well.¡±

    ¡°When were you going to tell us that the thorn in your side was a fucking monster,¡± Reina said through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Hopefully never,¡± he said walking over to the liquor cabinet and pouring two glasses. He slid the second glass to her, ¡°How did you run into it?¡±

    ¡°It turns out that my little songbird is part of the Legion,¡± she slammed the entire glass, ¡°I had her Bartholomew. Samon brought her to me, and I was ecstatic, but then I found out she was part of the Legion. And I thought I could kill two birds with one stone,¡± She ran her hands through her hair, ¡°But it didn¡¯t work. That monster tore through my men¡­and I barely made it out of there,¡± she turned her ire back to him, ¡°It blamed you for its existence.¡±

    Bartholomew sipped his glass, ¡°It¡¯s a mistake that I¡¯ve been trying to fix for the past year,¡± he said, ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s more resourceful than I expected.¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°A mad wizard came to me with a proposal,¡± Bartholomew calmly sat down, his hands clasped in front of him, ¡°I was to fund his experiment and in return he¡¯d provide me with an army. One that never tires, and is mindlessly loyal, but it didn¡¯t go as planned. That¡¯s what happens when you deal with a necromancer.¡±

    ¡°A necromancer?¡± Reina said, then her eyes went wide, ¡°You used the tome! How foolish are you?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re in no position to judge me!¡± Bartholomew stood up towering over her, ¡°I know the secret to your unnatural beauty. How many girls have you sacrificed to the Fae Queen to maintain your curse?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s a difference!¡± Reina leaned over the desk, ¡°I didn¡¯t use one of the Dead Gods¡¯ books.¡±

    ¡°Fairy¡¯s Youth is still a spell from the Dead Gods,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°It still requires their blessing in order to use.¡±

    ¡°Will you stop yelling,¡± they turned to see Baron and Taela stepping into the room, ¡°Do you know how hard it would be to make the entire serving staff disappear. Not to mention the hassle of trying to replace them.¡±

    ¡°So, you know of this monster too?¡± Reina said, ¡°What about you Taela?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Auntie,¡± Taela said, ¡°I was ordered not to tell anyone.¡±

    ¡°What do you want son?¡± Bartholomew poured himself another glass.

    Baron set a piece of paper on the desk, ¡°Bringing bad news,¡± he said, ¡°My sweet mouse provided me with a copy of the contract concerning the former thieves guild.¡±

    Bartholomew unfurled the parchment and nearly tore it in two, ¡°How in the Damned Prison did the monster sign the contract!¡± He glared at the dukes seal at the bottom.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    ¡°It didn¡¯t. It sent a proxy, and the contract is already in effect.¡±

    ¡°Damn it,¡± Bartholomew said stroking his beard, ¡°The tavern burnt down. Most likely by the monster¡¯s hand, but that means it will need to rebuild.¡±

    ¡°We can send some men to hamper the construction,¡± Reina said, ¡°If we cause enough problems, we can flush it out.¡¯

    ¡°I think we should leave it be for a time,¡± Baron said falling onto the sofa, ¡°It¡¯s smart, it will know we¡¯re onto it and will probably go back into hiding.¡±

    Silence filled the room.

    ¡°What if it isn¡¯t us,¡± Taela said, ¡°The monster has plenty of enemies. Why not tip one of them off.¡±

    ¡°Good point,¡± Baron said with a large smile, ¡°There¡¯s the Red Fangs, and also Halligan.¡±

    ¡°Halligan could deal with it, if he had enough help,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°But the Red Fangs would be nothing more than a distraction.¡±

    ¡°One that could give Samon more time to secure the slums,¡± Reina said, ¡°Then he could bring his full attention to the monster.¡±

    ¡°Do it,¡± Bartholomew said grabbing his coat, ¡°I¡¯m heading to the castle to see if I can get the Duke to join in.¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry master Decker, but that¡¯s not going to happen,¡± Magister Cromwell said. The dark circles around his eyes were prominent.

    ¡°And why not Magister,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you concerned with some unknown person coming in and buying up city property?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯d like to meet this person,¡± Cromwell sighed heavily, ¡°But this has the Duke¡¯s full support. I¡¯d be a fool to let my curiosity ruin a golden opportunity.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°War is expensive master Decker,¡± Cromwell said taking a sip of his tea, ¡°Supplies, maintenance, and payroll all stack up. Add to that the less money coming in from taxes and the drop in produce from farms, We¡¯re in desperate need of funds.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m certain the wealthy citizens would gladly support the city,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°After all, they benefit from the Duke¡¯s efforts in the war.¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± Cromwell walked over to his desk and pulled out a sheet of paper. He handed the paper to Bartholomew, ¡°Here you are.¡±

    Bartholomew read the sheet and choked on his tea, ¡°Outrageous,¡± he said, ¡°Are you trying to bankrupt me!¡±

    ¡°No, master Decker I¡¯m not,¡± Cromwell said sitting back down, ¡°But taxes are going to increase this year. This contract you¡¯re wanting us to back out of will increase it even more.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Bartholomew said getting up, ¡°I hadn¡¯t realized the war was going that badly.¡±

    ¡°It is,¡± Cromwell said, ¡°Which is why his Grace is fully supporting this endeavor.¡±

    Bartholomew sighed heavily and left the room. He expected some resistance from the city¡¯s administrators but not this. The city, and more importantly the duchy, were in desperate need of funds, so they flat out refused any negotiations. Not unless he wanted to lose half his wealth to cover the costs. The only way the city would get involved would be to tell them the truth. Which would lead to Bartholomew losing his head.

    Bartholomew could keep the sneer from his face as he turned the corner, and spotted Halligan skulking down the hall. He looked over his shoulder and relaxed against the wall. Then a shrill, girly voice rang down the hall.

    ¡°Sir Halligan!¡±

    Halligan jumped and quickly ducked into the closest room. A young girl getting ready to enter adulthood rounded the corner looking for him. Her golden hair was done in a braided bun and her flowy blue dress was covered in lace.

    ¡°Where did he go?¡± the girl pouted as she looked down the hall. She spotted Bartholomew and quickly approached him, ¡°You haven¡¯t seen a man with red hair come down here, have you?¡±

    ¡°He actually just ran by me,¡± Bartholomew said pointing behind him, ¡°Is there a reason why you need him, Lady Priscilla?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re to have lunch soon,¡± Priscilla said standing tall, ¡°Thank you for telling me.¡±

    Bartholomew waited for the girl to disappear then knocked on the door, ¡°She¡¯s gone.¡±

    Halligan quickly checked and quietly stepped out, ¡°Thank you sir,¡± he said, ¡°Master Decker, it¡¯s good to see you again.¡±

    ¡°The Duke¡¯s daughter running you ragged?¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± Halligan said stretching, ¡°The Duke made me his official guest after the incident with the ants. Since then, I haven¡¯t left the castle for nearly a month.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s still a child,¡± Bartholomew said looking over his shoulder, ¡°It should be easy to convince her to let you leave every now and then.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s not the issue sir,¡± Halligan said with a heavy sigh, ¡°It¡¯s the fact that the Duke is trying to arrange a marriage between us.¡± He leaned against the door, ¡°I don¡¯t want to hurt her feelings, but I have feelings for someone else.¡±

    ¡°Then tell her,¡± Bartholomew clapped his shoulder, ¡°Trust me, it¡¯s better to be upfront than to string her along, especially when it¡¯s the Duke¡¯s daughter.¡±

    ¡°Thanks for the advice. What brings you to the castle?¡±

    ¡°I had some business with magister Cromwell,¡± Batholomew said, ¡°How has the hunt for the monster going?¡±

    ¡°Not well,¡± Halligan said with a sneer.

    ¡°You should know, it showed up again,¡± Bartholomew said with a low whisper, ¡°Attacked an associate of mine last night, and kidnapped one of her girls.¡±

    ¡°Virtues,¡± Halligan said, ¡°I should be out there looking for it. Not playing nanny for a noblewoman.¡± Halligan¡¯s anger faded, ¡°Master Solomon could easily handle the monster, but he¡¯s back on the front lines.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s Touldan¡¯s hero. That¡¯s where he¡¯s needed,¡± Bartholomew said squeezing his shoulder, ¡°But you¡¯re here. That means you¡¯re the closest thing to a hero in this city. We need you.¡±

    Halligan took a deep breath and squared his shoulders, ¡°You¡¯re right. I¡¯m needed here,¡± he said, ¡°Thanks for the advice, master Decker. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll go to the guild and gather a party to help hunt the monster.¡±

    Bartholomew gave him an encouraging smile, ¡°Good man,¡± he said, ¡°But you should deal with Lady Priscilla first.¡±

    Halligan went pale, ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±

    Bartholomew laughed and headed back down the hall. He may not have gotten the city involved, but Halligan was a great consolation prize. The boy¡¯s naivety would make it easy to manipulate him into hunting the monster without exposing his own involvement. Bartholomew was quite hopeful for the future.

 Benevolence and Tyranny

    Meridith stood in the center of Skivret¡¯s throne room with her eyes focused on her feet. She could feel everyone¡¯s eyes on her. Despite the colorful cloth bathing the room in warm colors, a chill blanketed the room. The tension made her shoulder rise to her ears.

    ¡°Care to run that by us again,¡± Reviled¡¯s mechanical growl sent a shiver down Meridith¡¯s spine. Oria¡¯s snicker grated against her ears, and Meridith shot the woman a dark glare.

    Meridith cleared her throat, ¡°The construction site was attacked last night,¡± she said. It took effort to look Reviled in the eyes, ¡°They did considerable amount of damage. It looks to have set us back a few weeks.¡±

    ¡°Who did this?¡± Meridith pulled from her belt a red fang tied to a leather cord. Reviled¡¯s growl grew, ¡°So this is revenge,¡± it said, ¡°What do you have to say for yourself?¡±

    ¡°Yeah Red,¡± Oria said with a smug grin, ¡°It¡¯s pretty stupid not to hire bodyguards for a big project like the tavern, especially in the slums.¡± Meridith couldn¡¯t help but blush, which caused Oria to laugh louder.

    ¡°Be silent!¡± Reviled¡¯s roar caused both women to flinch. Oria turned pale when Reviled¡¯s gaze fell on her, ¡°We did not ask for your input. Do not speak until we do.¡± Oria nodded vigorously as she curled in on herself.

    ¡°Know you place bitch,¡± Meridith hissed which returned Reviled¡¯s attention to her.

    ¡°You are not exempt from this either,¡± it said, ¡°Out of everyone here, we expect the most from you. You¡¯re are proxy, which means you have the most freedom to act out, and yet you allowed this to happen.¡±

    ¡°Forgive my failure,¡± Meridith bowed.

    She stood there for the longest time. Her knees trembled and threatened to give out.

    ¡°You¡¯re forgiven,¡± Reviled said in a softer tone. Meridith sighed in relief as she looked up, ¡°Learn from this mistake, understand.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡±

    ¡°Come and sit,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We need to deal with this issue quickly. Time is not on our side.¡±

    ¡°Why the rush?¡± Mina said looking to each person.

    Meridith looked to Reviled and it nodded at her, ¡°Solomon Wise was anointed as a hero,¡± she said, ¡°He¡¯s drawn the Sword of Touldan, and is back to fighting on the front lines.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of time before he confronts the Wight King,¡± Reviled said, ¡°If he wins then he¡¯ll make his way back here.¡±

    ¡°And finish you off,¡± Kogna said with a humorless chuckle, ¡°With us alongside you.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Which is why we need to acquire the Tome of Elithis by the end of the year. Any longer and we run the risk of failure.¡± Silence fell over the room.

    ¡°What¡¯s the plan boss?¡±

    ¡°Meridith will continue as planned,¡± Reviled looked around, ¡°If we can get the tavern built faster, then do it. And don¡¯t forget the guards.¡± Meridith nodded, ¡°Oria, we want you to find the Red Fangs. They are a thorn we need to deal with.¡±

    ¡°Sure thing, boss.¡±

    <hr>

    Finding the Red Fangs was easier said than done. The gang went into hiding when they were disgraced by Decker. She probed each of her contacts for information, but none could provide her with anything. Now she sat in the gang¡¯s old haunt trying to find any trace.

    Oria looked around the filthy room. Many of the tables sat lopsided with chairs that had broken legs roped back together. There were no cushions on any of the wooden benches that lined the walls. The patrons sucked down the filthy ale as they enjoyed the company of the prostitutes. Of course, the whores used the patron¡¯s drunkenness and too much makeup to cover up their obvious flaws. Oria¡¯s mug started sliding to the right and she took another drink before it got too far. This brothel embodied the spirit of the slums.

    A little girl around eight walked around the room cleaning up the dirtied tables. Her long brown hair hung over the right side of her face. Her filthy hair barely covered the dark bruises, and her patchwork dress was barely holding together. Oria took a deep drink to chase the memories away.

    Oria touched her cheek. She remembered the pain from her mother¡¯s fist. Night after night. She wished her father would save her, but a whore¡¯s child has no father. Oria closed her eyes and remembered the solace she had found in the small closet with moth eaten dresses. Every night she would try to block out her mother¡¯s screams. After a few hours, her mother would tear her out her hiding place to enact the same pain that her clients inflicted on her. The girl¡¯s mother must work here.

    ¡°Excuse me, miss,¡± Oria looked down at the little girl, ¡°A-are you done?¡± she said pointing to the mug.

    Oria chugged the rest of her drink. ¡°Here,¡± she said as she slipped a silver coin into it.

    The girl took the glass and stared in awe at the shiny coin. Her big eyes looked up to Oria. Oria smiled as she placed a finger to her lips, which brought a small smile to the girl. The little girl quickly ran back to the kitchen.

    ¡°Can I get another?¡± Oria called the bartender. The bartender placed another mug in front of her.

    A girl, younger than Min, came out from the back. Her movements stiff, and she looked around in fear. Another child submitting to the degenerate lifestyle of a prostitute. Oria understood. It was easier to make money from selling yourself than searching for something better. She remembered when her friend Ada, Teddy¡¯s sister, made her debut. Ada spent the next morning crying her eyes out as the older prostitutes tended to her. Oria didn¡¯t want that, so she decided to try a different path.

    However, being a thief isn¡¯t as safe as being a prostitute. She smiled remembering her first theft. She didn¡¯t know who¡¯s purse she stole, but that didn¡¯t matter at the time, getting away did. Thanks to her small frame, Oria ducked under stalls, crawled through tight alleys, and finally hid within an empty crate. She got away with her spoils, or so she thought. She ended up stealing from Taern. He was an enforcer then, but the soon-to-be guild leader took her under his wing and made her into the woman she was today. Oria wiped away the moisture from her eyes and took a deep drink.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°No point thinking about the good days,¡± Oria said to herself.

    Someone wrapped an arm around Oria¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Long time sweetie,¡± a woman whispered into her ear.

    Oria turned and looked at the woman. A fresh scar ran up the left side of her face with an eyepatch over the left eye.

    ¡°Remember me?¡± she said with a venomous smile, ¡°Because I remember you.¡± Oria felt a sharp pang in her neck.

    ¡°What¡­did you¡­d-do?¡± Oria¡¯s eyes felt heavy, and she couldn¡¯t get her thoughts together.

    ¡°You¡¯ll know soon enough sweetie,¡± the woman said gesturing to a group of men in the back, ¡°We¡¯ve got a lot to talk about.¡±

    Oria struggled, but whatever drug they gave her won, ¡°Boss¡­help.¡± Darkness overtook her.

    <hr>

    ¡°W-up.¡±

    Oria groaned. A migraine thundered through her head, and her arms screamed from tension.

    ¡°Wake up!¡±

    Pain blossomed throughout Oria¡¯s stomach. Her eyes shot open, and she was immediately blinded by lantern light. She took shallow ragged breaths as her vision cleared. She was in a run-down warehouse, or a shack. It wasn¡¯t a large building. It consisted of a single room with eight wooden beams holding up the rafters and ceilings. The shutter in the roof was partly opened showing the pale starlight. It was the perfect hideout for a small gang, such as the one in front of her.

    About twenty people stood around, each wearing a piece of jewelry with a red fang. Most of the Red Fangs were young, children barely into adulthood, but they stared at her with such deep hatred. The worst was the woman with the eyepatch, and a man with a mess up face, it was hard to make out his expression.

    ¡°Dammit,¡± Oria groaned, ¡°Got sloppy.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s about time you woke up,¡± the woman said, ¡°We didn¡¯t expect the drug to knock you out for five hours.¡±

    Five hours. Oria shook her head. Then it must be close to midnight. ¡°Well, I¡¯m awake now,¡± she said. She was sitting on a chair with her hands tied behind her back.

    ¡°Do you remember me?¡± The woman said bending down to look at her.

    Oria gave a condescending smile, ¡°Sorry, I don¡¯t waste my time on small fries,¡± The woman slapped Oria hard. Oria ran her tongue over her split lip, ¡°Still doesn¡¯t ring a bell.¡±

    The woman drew her dagger and held it close to Oria¡¯s left eye, ¡°Perhaps this will help you remember,¡± she said with a dark smile.

    The man with the broken face finally spoke, it sounded like his mouth was full, ¡°Vixen,¡±

    Vixen continued holding the dagger, then slowly pulled it back, ¡°Sorry Calleg,¡± she said standing up straight, ¡°We¡¯ll continue this later.¡±

    Calleg stared down at her, ¡°Where¡¯s your hideout?¡±

    Oria cocked an eyebrow, ¡°Sorry, what did you say.¡± Calleg¡¯s fist struck her right cheek. Oria spat on the ground, staining it with her blood, ¡°I can¡¯t understand you accent, asshole.¡± She said with a smirk.

    Calleg struck her again and again. The warm, metallic taste of blood filled her mouth, but the next punch forced her to swallow. Calleg moved from her face and struck her stomach. The air forcefully removed from her lungs. Oria was finally able to breathe when he stopped hitting her.

    ¡°Ready to talk?¡±

    Oria coughed up a chuckle, ¡°You really¡­should¡­let someone else speak.¡±

    Calleg screamed and pulled Oria up by her hair. She cried out as she was forced to her feet and thrown to the ground. A kick struck Oria in the back and she screamed as two others struck her knees and gut. Oria curled in on herself to try and protect her vitals, but every now and then someone got in a good strike.

    The beating felt like it would never end, but it eventually did. Pain seared throughout her body, and each breath burned against her ribs. Oria coughed and her blood-soaked saliva splattered against the wooden floor. She stared at the blood.

    What did she expect. In the slums, life was cheap. Why worry about one person¡¯s death when someone else could take their place. A tear leaked from Oria¡¯s eyes. The cold reality hit her harder than any of the other attacks.

    Where was that damned monster? It went to great lengths to save Mina, but now it was nowhere to be found. Reviled spoke about cherishing everyone in the gang. We won¡¯t hold ever hold back when one of our own needs us. Those were the monster¡¯s exact words.

    Liar.

    Oria didn¡¯t feel the kick that rolled her onto her back. She now stared up at the ceiling. Damn, the shutter is closed. She took shallow breaths.

    ¡°Where¡¯s your hideout?¡± Calleg stood over her, ¡°Speak, or I¡¯ll leave you to my boys.¡±

    A shadow moved through the rafters, and a pair of red eyes stared down at her. Oria couldn¡¯t hold back the smile as she spread her legs.

    ¡°Help yourself,¡± Oria said.

    ¡°Fine then,¡± Calleg disappeared from her sight. She could hear him messing with his belt, but she was focused on the monster.

    ¡°Boss!¡± Vixen called out, but she was too late.

    Calleg screamed in pain as a skeletal tail pierced through his chest and lifted him off the floor. Reviled used the six skeletal arms to lower itself from the rafters and grabbed Calleg¡¯s head in its hands.

    ¡°We didn¡¯t say you could touch her,¡± The monster growled as it tightened its grip.

    Oria groaned as she got to her feet. Calleg tried to pull himself free from Reviled¡¯s grasp, but his pale hands could barely grab the tip of the tail. Reviled brought the leader closer to its face and with a mechanical hiss silenced Calleg¡¯s scream. The late Red Fang leader fell to the floor as Reviled retracted its tongue, and it dropped down with a loud thud. The Red Fangs rushed to the door.

    ¡°Open the Fucking door!¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t, someone locked it from the outside!¡±

    Vixen stared at the monster, unable to move, ¡°Virtues save us.¡±

    Oria grabbed one of Calleg¡¯s daggers, and freed herself. She tackled Vixen, and stabbed the knife into Vixens left eye. Vixen screamed as she tried to push Oria off, but Oria wouldn¡¯t stop. Over and over again she plunged the knife into her face, and when Vixen stopped struggling, Oria drove it in one last time with a violent twist.

    Oria rose to her feet, but her legs shook violently, and she fell forward. Thankfully, the monster caught her.

    ¡°Took you long enough,¡± Oria said.

    ¡°It took time for us to prepare,¡± Reviled said picking her up, ¡°Not to mention, this shack is pretty far from a sewer gate.¡± Reviled turned its gaze to the cowering Red Fangs, ¡°Now to deal with the rest.¡±

    ¡°Wait!¡± one of the members screamed, ¡°We were just following orders. Please, let us go and you¡¯ll never see us again.¡±

    ¡°Maybe we should spare them boss,¡± Oria said, ¡°Instead of killing them, let¡¯s recruit them. We¡¯ll need more human members if we really want to fight against Decker.¡± Oria gave the group a sinister smile.

    ¡°Yes, yes, we¡¯ll gladly join your gang!¡± the Red Fangs nodded furiously.

    ¡°Bring us one of those crates,¡± Reviled ordered. A crate was placed in front of it, and it placed six gold coins on top of it. The Red Fangs stared greedily at the money, ¡°We¡¯ll only accept six of you. The rest of you will be punished.¡±

    ¡°How will the six be chosen?¡±

    Reviled chuckled, ¡°We¡¯ll let you decide.¡±

    The Red Fangs stared at each other in horror as they backed away from each other. Distrust filled their eyes. The first to strike was a large man. He drew his knife and charged for the smallest woman in the group, but another member threw a dagger that struck him in the back. This led to a full-on fight.

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of this?¡± Oria said looking on in interest.

    ¡°It¡¯s important for a leader to understand what it means to be loved and feared,¡± Reviled said, ¡°A leader who is not feared, is not respected, but a leader who is not loved, is no leader at all. Therefore, there must be a balance between benevolence and tyranny.¡±

    ¡°This is your definition of balanced,¡± Oria said with a chuckle, ¡°Some might call this excessive.¡±

    They continued watching until eight members remained. Two of them were men protecting a small woman against the other five. One of the protectors charged forward but he was quickly struck down. Before the second protector could react, the small woman used her dagger to tear out his throat. The six remaining members stared at each other with blank expressions.

    Reviled¡¯s six skeletal arms openly gestured towards the coins, ¡°Come, claim your prize.¡±

    The six members slowly approached. They never took their eyes off the shiny gold coins sitting on the crate. They slowly reached out, but Reviled grabbed each one by their neck. Magic flowed through the skeletal arms, and the members screamed in pain as they were branded with slave crests. Reviled released them, and they all fell to the floor.

    ¡°Welcome to the Legion,¡± Reviled said, ¡°From here on out, you six will report directly to Oria,¡± It walked to the locked door and kicked it down, ¡°Expect to hear from us soon. And don¡¯t forget your prize.¡±

 What did you do?

    Meridith let a small smile come to her lips as she stepped into the Blach Horn guild. It hadn¡¯t changed much since she was fired a year ago. The adventurers were loud as they bragged about their feats along with the clatter of armor and gear. The board was nearly empty, and the adventurers were still here were two pints in or working out their frustrations with tavern games set up in the back. Most of them sported greying beards and hair.

    ¡°Why did we come here?¡± Mina said. She bit her lower lip to stop it from trembling.

    ¡°We here to advertise open positions for the tavern¡± Meridith said waving at the clerks behind the desk, ¡°You¡¯d be surprised how many adventurers are looking to retire.¡±

    ¡°Meridith!¡± a tall woman with braided black bun smiled, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see master Aberny,¡± Meridith said holding up a pamphlet, ¡°I need to advertise my new tavern.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re opening a tavern,¡± the clerk said, ¡°By the Virtues, how did you accomplish that?¡±

    Meridith laughed, ¡°It¡¯s not actually mine Gena,¡± she said, ¡°It belongs to my new employer.¡±

    ¡°Congratulations,¡± Gena said, ¡°I¡¯ll let master Aberny know you¡¯re here.¡±

    Meridith stood by the counter. The other clerks stared at her in awe, and she gave them a charming smile that caused them to start whispering. She turned around and noticed Mina squirming. Apparently, several of the younger adventurers were eyeing both women from the rim of their mugs. The two women stood out, and that was the point.

    The door to the guild opened and a young man with curly red hair walked inside. His appearance stole the attention of everyone in sight. Meridith covered her mouth while Mina tried hiding behind her. She hadn¡¯t expected Halligan to be here. Whether or not this was a blessing was yet to be seen.

    Another clerk approached the counter, ¡°How may we be of service master Halligan?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see master Aberny.¡±

    The clerk looked between him and Meridith, ¡°I¡¯ll let him know you¡¯re here.¡±

    Meridith smoothed out her dress, ¡°The Virtues smile upon me,¡± she said, ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting to meet the Hero of Jericho here.¡±

    ¡°Please ma¡¯am,¡± Halligan said with a deep blush, ¡°I¡¯m no hero. I was simply in the right place at the right time.¡±

    ¡°But you are a hero good sir,¡± she said with a bright smile, ¡°Had you not dispatched those disgusting ants, well, only the Virtues know. Where are my manners,¡± she held out her hand, ¡°I¡¯m Meridith, and this is my attendant, Mina.¡± Mina bowed behind her.

    Halligan gently took her hand, ¡°A pleasure,¡± he said, ¡°And what brings you here?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m opening a tavern in the lower city,¡± Meridith said sliding over the pamphlet, ¡°Since I used to work here, I was hoping that I could reestablish that connection.¡±

    ¡°You used to work here?¡±

    Meridith gave a sad chuckle, ¡°Yes, I use to be a clerk,¡± she said with a quivering lip, ¡°I¡­used to be close to Laegyn, one of the top members,¡± She wiped at her eyes, ¡°Let¡¯s just say, I had trouble focusing after his death, and master Aberny had to let me go.¡±

    Halligan pulled out a handkerchief, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Meridith gently took the cloth. She held his hands a few seconds longer, ¡°You truly are a kind man.¡±

    ¡°Meridith, master Aberny is ready.¡± Gena said from the base of the stairs.

    Meridith curtsied to Halligan, ¡°I hope we meet again,¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d like that,¡±

    Meridith and Mina followed Gena up the stairs. Aberny¡¯s office hadn¡¯t changed much. A barrier of paperwork separated him from everyone, and a half-finished glass of scotch sat within reach. His hair was greyer and his beard unkempt. The dark circles under his eyes were the only thing that hadn¡¯t changed about him.

    Aberny looked up and gave her a warm smile, ¡°Meridith, it¡¯s been a long time,¡± he said getting up from his desk. He gave her a quick look, ¡°You look to be doing well.¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± Meridith said returning the smile, ¡°And you look to be as busy as usual.¡±

    ¡°That hasn¡¯t changed unfortunately,¡± he said, ¡°And what¡¯s your name miss?¡±

    ¡°Mina sir,¡± she bowed, ¡°I serve am lady Meridith¡¯s attendant.¡±

    Aberny looked to Meridith with wide eyes, ¡°Lady? Attendant? You really have done well for yourself,¡± he said gesturing for them to sit down, ¡°Did you find yourself a wealthy man?¡±

    ¡°In a way,¡± Meridith laughed, ¡°I found myself a new employer. His business has been growing lately, so he acquired more staff.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m glad things worked out for you,¡± Aberny said, ¡°So what brings you here?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to catch up with my old colleague,¡± Meridith said pulling out the pamphlet, ¡°And, promote my employer¡¯s new business. He¡¯s opening a tavern.¡±

    Aberny slapped his knee, ¡°And who better to sell alcohol to than adventurers,¡± he said, ¡°Or are you trying to steal away my talent?¡±

    ¡°A bit of both,¡±

    He scratched at his beard with a sly smile, ¡°I¡¯ll allow it, for a thirty percent discount.¡±The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    ¡°Ten,¡±

    ¡°Twenty,¡±

    ¡°Fifteen,¡±

    Aberny held out his hand, ¡°Eighteen,¡±

    Meridith reached out but held it apart, ¡°Fifteen,¡±

    ¡°Deal,¡± Aberny said, ¡°I¡¯m glad you still know how to haggle.¡±

    ¡°I learned from the best,¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll see to it that everyone knows about your new tavern,¡± Aberny said taking the pamphlet.

    Meridith rose with a smile, ¡°Thank you,¡± she said, ¡°I won¡¯t take up more of your time. Thank you for seeing me, master Aberny.¡±

    ¡°Please come see me again Meridith,¡± Aberny said escorting them to the door.

    ¡°I will,¡±

    Meridith and Mina headed downstairs and out of the guild. The sun hadn¡¯t reached its peak in the sky.

    ¡°What should we do now?¡± Mina said.

    ¡°We need to start planning on the menu for the tavern,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Let¡¯s go buy a few cookbooks and try out a few recipes. I¡¯m certain Kogna will be hungry after his patrol.¡±

    <hr>

    Kogna sighed heavily as his stomach growled. He was walking down the streets surrounding the tavern construction site. The street kids loitering in the alley ran off when came in sight. They kept their heads down as they looked back at him. Looks like they learned their lesson.

    The people looked at him cautiously, but none approached. Kogna¡¯s left hand rested on the hilt of his sword, and his eyes darted across the road with his eyes half closed. So far, nothing stood out to him. Kogna turned the corner and stopped.

    A girl, several years younger than Mina, sat on the steps of a house crying. Her hair was filthy and disheveled dark brown hair, and her patchwork dress hung loosely off her shoulders. Bruises ran along her arms and legs.

    ¡°Where are you!¡± The girl jumped and ran into a nearby alley. A large man with a big nose stormed out of the house and searched down the road. ¡°Damn brat, where¡¯d you go!¡± The man stomped down the road passing by the little girls hiding place.

    Kogna¡¯s gaze lingered on the alley. I shouldn¡¯t get involved. He made his way to the alley, there was nothing there except a tarp covered crate and a broken barrel. This will cause problems for the master. He stopped by the crate. He could hear crying, but the girl was nowhere in sight. What am I doing?

    He gently knocked on the crate, ¡°Come on out, he¡¯s gone.¡±

    The tarp pulled to the side, and a dull blue eye stared up at him. Slowly, the girl poked her head out and checked down the alley before climbing out of the crate. She was shorter than Kogna expected, despite her age.

    ¡°Are you all right?¡± Kogna said looking over the girl. She stared at the floor and nodded. ¡°What¡¯s your name kid?¡±

    ¡°Vaera,¡±

    Kogna sighed and gave the girl a silver coin, ¡°Here, this should cool his temper,¡± he said. ¡°Be safe kid.¡±

    ¡°Thanks mister!¡±

    ¡°What am I doing?¡± Kogna said under his breath.

    Kogna finished his patrol and returned to the tavern. It was coming along nicely. The stone walls on the first floor transitioned to wood for the second and third. The red clay shingles on the roof made it stand out against the plain wooden roofs of the surrounding buildings. The inside itself was bare but the overall construction was done. Thankfully with a little extra coin, they were able to speed up the construction. Unfortunately, the same couldn¡¯t be said for the furniture. Meridith and Mina stood by the bar leaning over a book.

    ¡°This one looks good,¡± Meridith said, ¡°And the recipe is simple, so we can make it a staple.¡±

    ¡°True, but would it satisfy the customers?¡± Mina said, ¡°We should think about what our customers would want.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m hoping most of our clientele will be adventurers.¡±

    ¡°Then you should focus on meat dishes,¡± Kogna said leaning against the bar, ¡°The dishes should consist of fatty meats. They¡¯ll need to replenish their energy after a hard day¡¯s work.¡±

    ¡°Adventurers are primarily carnivorous anyway,¡± Meridith said, ¡°And we should focus on stronger drinks as well. How did your patrol go?¡±

    Kogna rubbed his thumb against his sword hilt, ¡°Nothing out of the ordinary.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Hopefully we won¡¯t have anymore issues until after the tavern is finished.¡±

    ¡°How long will that take?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re waiting on the furniture, so maybe two weeks,¡± Meridith said, ¡°We should be able to open by that time.¡±

    ¡°What about staffing?¡± Oria stepped off the stairs.

    ¡°Put some clothes on!¡± Meridith said through gritted teeth.

    Oria¡¯s wore nothing but woolen undergarments with her messy blonde hair covering her chest, ¡°This is what I sleep in,¡± she said with a lopsided smile, ¡°You¡¯re the one who wanted me and my boys to sleep here so we could watch over the place at night.¡± Meridith growled, which caused Oria¡¯s smile to grow.

    ¡°Are we done?¡± Kogna said. Meridith nodded, and Kogna headed downstairs.

    ¡°Kogna,¡± he turned to see Oria running her hands through her hair, ¡°Care to join me instead?¡±

    Kogna huffed, ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°Asshole.¡±

    <hr>

    Kogna patrolled the same street once again. Meridith and Mina were out shopping for ingredients so that they could try the dishes that they would serve, and Oria was out gathering information. Everyone gave Kogna wide berth like they always did.

    ¡°Windman!¡± Kogna turned to see a group of young adults approach. They had a tattoo of a bull and hammer on their upper arm. ¡°What¡¯ cha doing?¡±

    ¡°Patrolling,¡±

    The thugs started laughing, ¡°What, is this your territory?¡±

    Kogna shifted his posture, ¡°It is.¡±

    ¡°Well, that¡¯s a problem,¡± the lead thug said, ¡°Because Samon Blackhammer controls the slums. And there¡¯s a toll of three gold to walk the streets.¡±

    Kogna took in all of them, ¡°That¡¯s a problem,¡± he said, ¡°Because your lives aren¡¯t worth three gold.¡±

    The thugs scowled, but before they could move, Kogna drew his sword. A gust of wind blew the four thugs away and they fell to the floor. Their heads hit the ground with a sickening crack. The crowd turned away but kept their eyes on the lone swordsman.

    Kogna went back to his patrol. He retained the sharp glare that kept the people at bay. The last thing he wanted was another confrontation. He turned a corner and found Vaera sitting on the steps of her house. Her eyes were glued to the stone streets. The door opened behind her and the man from yesterday stepped out.

    ¡°Why are you just sitting there, you damn brat,¡± he said picking her up and throwing her on the street, ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be earning us money.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Vaera cried covering her head.

    ¡°You¡¯re just as useless as your mother,¡± the man raised his fist. Kogna grabbed onto his wrist, and he turned his gaze towards him, ¡°What do you want.¡±

    Kogna squeezed the man¡¯s wrist and forced his fist open. Kogna slapped a silver coin into the man¡¯s hand.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be taking the girl for the day.¡± Kogna said throwing him off.

    The man looked at the coin with a smile, ¡°Fine by me,¡± he turned to Vaera, ¡°Don¡¯t mess this up.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s go kid,¡± Kogna said picking Vaera up.

    She fell in step behind him, ¡°Where are we going?¡±

    ¡°A tavern.¡±

    Vaera stared at the floor, and mumbled something that Kogna couldn¡¯t hear. Kogna led the way through the streets to the tavern and pushed his way inside, but Vaera stopped right outside. Kogna turned and stared at her, which caused her steps to stumble.

    Vaera stood in the center of the room with her face downward. Her arms shook violently as she stared at her bruises. Her hands gripped tightly at her ragged dress. Kogna stared at the girl with a cocked eyebrow.

    ¡°Brother! What did you do!¡±

    Something hard struck Kogna in the back of his head, and Mina rushed forwards to kneel in front of Vaera. A rolling pin rolled underneath a table.

    ¡°Are you alright dear?¡± Mina said raising the girls face, ¡°Why are you covered in bruises?¡±

    Kogna rubbed the back of his head, ¡°Was that necessary?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Mina said giving him a stern glare, ¡°Who is this girl?¡±

    ¡°He paid¡­for me,¡± Vaera said. Mina hugged the girl tightly.

    ¡°I hired her to work in the tavern.¡± Vaera and Mina stared at him with wide eyes.

    ¡°What,¡± the girl said.

    Kogna sighed, ¡°This tavern is going to be opening soon,¡± he said, ¡°We need people to staff it, and you need to make money.¡±

    ¡°So, you hired her to help out,¡± Mina stared at him, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you say so!¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t think I need to,¡± Kogna said which caused Mina to sigh, ¡°I¡¯ll leave her to you. I have something I need to report to the master.¡±

    Kogna headed downstairs. He didn¡¯t want to get hit again, and he needed to report about Samon¡¯s thug attacking him. A headache started forming where Mina hit him.

 A New Family

    A comforting warmth filled the room with the sweet smell of fresh bread and honey. Mina looked at the round, golden brown buns, and licked her lips. She took a deep breath and released a content sigh.

    ¡°Are you alright, miss Mina?¡± Vaera said.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Mina said. Her eyes flicked between Vaera and the bread, ¡°We don¡¯t have this type of bread back on Amu¡¯Ryja. But I must admit, it smells divine.¡±

    ¡°My mother used to make these for me all the time,¡± Vaera said looking at the buns. A tear ran down her cheek, ¡°But now¡­¡±

    ¡°Your father is making things difficult,¡± Kogna said plucking a bun from the counter. He took a bite and blew out a cloud of steam.

    Vaera stared down at the floor, ¡°He¡¯s not my father,¡± she said, ¡°Mom just brought him home one day.¡±

    A loud clatter of people running came from upstairs, and Oria¡¯s six goons rushed down the stairs. Their clothes were messed up, and hair an utter disaster.

    ¡°That smells good,¡± the woman said. Her light brown hair was bunched around her ears.

    ¡°Back off Rylie,¡± the tall lanky man with a scar over his right eyebrow growled, ¡°Mina made these for me!¡±

    The muscular man with a thick beard laughed, ¡°You mean me, Emmett.¡±

    ¡°Food!¡± All eyes turn to the stairs leading downstairs. Furious scurrying and the shriek followed.

    ¡°Virtues, it¡¯s coming!¡± the bald man said stuffing his face, ¡°Quick, grab as many as you can.¡±

    An ant the size of a large dog scurried along the wall and jumped down to the floor. On its back was a toddler sized mushroom staring at the buns with bright eyes.

    ¡°Go Antwuan!¡± the mushroom said, ¡°Get the food.¡± The gang members rushed towards the stairs, but Antwuan scurried under the tables and then jumped onto the stairs to block their path. ¡°No where to go.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s enough Cappy,¡± Meridith said coming up the stairs, ¡°We don¡¯t need Antwuan breaking any of the furniture.¡±

    ¡°But food!¡± Cappy stared at the golden buns.

    ¡°I have some here for you,¡± Mina held up another plate.

    Cappy cheered and pushed Antwuan to rush towards the bar. Clicking its mandibles is glee, Antwuan stared up begging for food. Cappy flopped onto the bar top and stared at the plate of buns with her mouth open wide. Mina chuckled and threw a bun on the ground before feeding Cappy.

    ¡°She¡¯s like a baby,¡± Vaera said with a chuckle.

    ¡°Too true,¡± Meridith said, ¡°By the way Kogna, the master is waiting for you downstairs.¡±

    Kogna nodded and headed downstairs. The basement was fully furnished with tables, chairs, and a full bar. On the far end, Reviled sat in the box with the curtains pulled back, reading a few reports.

    ¡°You wished to see me?¡± Kogna said kneeling on a plush cushion sitting in front of the box.

    ¡°How did your latest patrol go?¡±

    ¡°No issues, but Blackhammer¡¯s men have been watching from afar,¡± Kogna said, ¡°I think they¡¯re scouting us.¡±

    ¡°And what about your little pet,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle.

    ¡°I¡¯m still paying her handler a silver a day,¡± Kogna said clearing his throat, ¡°She¡¯s been instrumental in helping get the tavern ready.¡±

    ¡°Well, stop,¡± Reviled said placing three gold in front of it, ¡°We don¡¯t see any value in paying someone else for what could be ours. Either purchase her outright or be done with her.¡±

    ¡°As you wish master,¡± Kogna picked up the coins and rose to his feet.

    ¡°Why did you save her?¡± Reviled stared into the warriors eyes.

    ¡°I¡­regret not saving Mina,¡±

    Reviled nodded and returned to reading the reports, ¡°Just don¡¯t let it distract you,¡± it said, ¡°We have no need for a hero.¡±

    Kogna bowed and returned upstairs. He heard laughter and found the girls sitting at a table watching Cappy dance. Sparks of magic sprayed from the mushroom¡¯s hands only for them to fizzle out and cause Cappy to start up again. Kogna¡¯s eyes fell onto his sister.

    Mina was smiling from ear to ear, and there was a healthy flush on her otherwise pale skin. He remembered the cold, lifeless gaze she had when he tried to rescue her, but now they were full of color. Kogna remembered the chains wrapped around her wrist and ankles, and the tears she cried when he was dragged away. The memory caused him to grip his sword tightly, but he couldn¡¯t take his eyes from her smile.

    ¡°No need for a hero,¡± Kogna said to himself, ¡°Good thing I¡¯m not one.¡± He approached the table, ¡°Come on kid. Time to get you home.¡±

    Vaera¡¯s smile vanished as she looked at the floor, ¡°Yes sir,¡±

    Silence followed them as they left the tavern and walked down the street. The lamplighters were already performing their duties as the people started heading home. Vaera fell behind Kogna. Her face still towards the ground.

    ¡°Don¡¯t want to go back?¡± Kogna said slowing down.

    ¡°No,¡± Vaera said wiping her eyes, ¡°I wanted to stay¡­for a bit longer.¡±

    ¡°What about your mother?¡±

    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t see her that much anymore,¡± Vaera said, ¡°I don¡¯t think she cares about me.¡±The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°Then you¡¯d be fine if you never had to go home?¡± Kogna said glancing down at her.

    Vaera¡¯s eyes widened, ¡°Truly?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see what can be done.¡±

    Vaera grabbed Kogna¡¯s hand and smiled, ¡°Thank you,¡±

    They continued walking down the street until they came to Vaera¡¯s house. The large man that Kogna had been paying stood outside waiting.

    ¡°I hope she satisfied you sir?¡± he said with a twisted grin.

    ¡°She¡¯s done excellent work,¡± Kogna said, ¡°But I¡¯m tired of paying for her services every day.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear that,¡±

    ¡°How much to buy the girl outright?¡± Kogna said, ¡°Does one gold suffice?¡± The man stared at him in shock.

    ¡°No!¡± a woman at the door shouted. Her brown hair was messy, and her dress was barely hanging on her. ¡°That¡¯s my baby!¡±

    ¡°Shut up woman!¡± the man said slapping her, ¡°This doesn¡¯t concern you.¡±

    ¡°Mom!¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡± Kogna¡¯s shout caused everyone to stop, ¡°Three gold coins for the both of them.¡±

    ¡°Deal,¡± the man said pushing Vaera¡¯s mother down the stairs. Kogna caught her before she fell. ¡°Do you need their things?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Kogna said placing the coins on the steps, ¡°They won¡¯t be taking anything.¡± He ushered the two back to the tavern.

    <hr>

    ¡°Kogna, you have a problem,¡± Meridith said holding her head in her hands.

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Kogna said.

    ¡°You purchased two people off the street for three gold!¡± Meridith said, ¡°And this was after you spent nearly twenty gold for Vaera¡¯s services.¡±

    ¡°The master told me to stop that, and to buy Vaera outright,¡± Kogna said, ¡°Then provided me with three gold.¡±

    ¡°We told you to buy the girl for three gold,¡± Reviled said from his box. The curtains hiding him.

    ¡°And?¡±

    Reviled¡¯s sigh echoed through the basement, ¡°Woman, do you have any skills that are useful to us?¡±

    ¡°Mom¡¯s an excellent cook!¡± Vaera said, ¡°She¡¯s also good at other chores like cleaning and sewing. She did it a lot.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for my daughter,¡± the woman said, ¡°But she¡¯s right. I took odd jobs around the city doing household work.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± Mina said.

    ¡°Yula,¡±

    ¡°I swear you won¡¯t regret it!¡± Vaera said rushing to the box, ¡°We¡¯ll work really hard.¡±

    ¡°Vaera don¡¯t!¡± Mina said, trying to grab her.

    Vaera pushed her head through the curtains. Though they couldn¡¯t see her face, they could see Vaera¡¯s hands tighten around the curtains, and the thick scent of urine filled the room as a puddle formed underneath Vaera. Mina gently came up behind her and pulled her away. She pulled out a towel and started wiping down Vaera and the floor.

    ¡°You should listen to your elders girl,¡± Reviled said, ¡°But since you¡¯re enthusiastic about joining us,¡±

    The curtains parted slightly, but Mina blocked Yula¡¯s view. Reviled¡¯s claw gently touched Vaera¡¯s skin at the top of her sternum. Mina held onto the girl tightly as the magic coursed through Vaera and caused her to scream in pain. Kogna grabbed onto Yula¡¯s arm to keep her in place. Reviled pulled away, and Vaera buried her face in Mina¡¯s chest.

    ¡°Yula, approach,¡± Reviled said.

    Yula slowly approached and sat next to Mina. Her gaze lingered on her weeping child. Movement from the box drew her attention, and Reviled¡¯s metal claw pressed against her breast, right over the heart. Pain shot through Yula, and she screamed, but Kogna sat behind her and gently held her up. When Reviled removed his claw, Yula rested against Kogna.

    ¡°Welcome to your new family,¡± Reviled said pulling the curtains open. Both Vaera and Yula flinched, ¡°From now on this will be your home. Meridith, see to it they have everything they need.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡±

    ¡°Mina, Kogna, take them upstairs to rest. They¡¯ll be quite busy tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡± the siblings said.

    <hr>

    Vaera stared at herself in the mirror. She was wearing a simple green dress, and her hair was pulled back with a plain shawl covering her head. The long sleeves covered up the bruises on her arms, and Mina applied rouge to brighten up her cheeks. Her brown leather slippers fit more comfortably than her old ones.

    ¡°You look beautiful,¡± Vaera turned to see her mother wearing a similar outfit, but with a blue dress that made her eyes stand out more.

    ¡°You look pretty too, mom,¡± Vaera said.

    ¡°How come the boss doesn¡¯t buy me pretty dresses?¡± Rylie sat in a chair playing with her hair.

    ¡°Because you haven¡¯t earned it,¡± Oria said sitting next to her.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough everyone,¡± Meridith said turning to Yula and Vaera, ¡°Let¡¯s go downstairs and practice some more. There¡¯s only a few more days before we open.¡±

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am,¡±

    Everyone headed downstairs. Kogna sat at the bar sharpening his sword, while Mina was tuning her instrument. Oria¡¯s other thugs were sitting at a table playing cards. The rich smell of bread filled the room with a comfortable air. The bell over the door rang, and five rugged men walked in. Each one bore Samon¡¯s tattoo.

    ¡°We¡¯re not open,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I have to ask you to leave.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry ma¡¯am, but I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s important,¡± the leader said, ¡°Two of my employees were sold to your establishment the other night,¡± his gaze fell to Yula and Vaera, ¡°And I¡¯m here to retrieve them.¡±

    ¡°Is that so,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Is there any proof that it was this establishment.¡±

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am,¡± the leader said with a smile, ¡°The employee responsible for this travesty mentioned selling them to an Amu¡¯Ryjin man, and your tavern is the only place that employes one.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, this is a travesty,¡± Meridith said looking up with a pout. She smiled slowly, ¡°I¡¯m afraid there isn¡¯t much I can help with. You¡¯ll have to take this to my employer downstairs.¡± Vaera looked up and noticed a black rat staring down at them from above the door, ¡°Kogna, please show them downstairs to the master.¡±

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am,¡± Kogna rose and nodded to the stairs, ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Vaera watched as the five men headed downstairs. She looked back and found that the rat was no longer there. Everyone was gathered around the bar talking, but she wasn¡¯t paying attention to what they were saying. Slowly, she snuck down the stairs and into the basement, and hid behind the bar.

    ¡°What does this have to do with us?¡± she heard Reviled say.

    ¡°It¡¯s against the law to sell people without a written contract,¡± the thug said, ¡°We¡¯re willing to let this go, if you¡¯re willing to work with us. Otherwise, we¡¯ll have to get the authorities involved.¡±

    ¡°We would like to avoid that,¡±

    ¡°As would we,¡± Vaera snuck around the bar so she could see, ¡°It would be beneficial if we could come to an agreement,¡± his smile turned hungry, ¡°We ask that you return the woman and the girl, or perhaps you¡¯d like to loan out one of the other women in your employ.¡±

    ¡°No,¡±

    The thug¡¯s smiled turned to a sneer, ¡°What do you mean, no?¡±

    Black smoke started seeping out of the box, ¡°Exactly what you think,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Yula and Vaera are now under our protection. We will not be giving them up, especially to Blackhammer¡¯s men.¡±

    ¡°Are you an¡­Wait, why can¡¯t I move?¡±

    Vaera felt heat coming from the crest on her chest. Reviled stepped out of the box and towered over the thugs. It lifted the leader by the neck.

    ¡°Noxious Miasma,¡± Reviled said, ¡°A spell that causes sudden paralysis. Only those we¡¯ve marked are immune.¡± Reviled looked at the five of them, ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since we¡¯ve fed,¡± it chuckled, ¡°Thanks for the meal.¡±

    Reviled¡¯s bladed tongue pierced the leader¡¯s skull in the center of his forehead. When the thug went limp, Reviled tossed the body to the ground and moved onto the next. Vaera stared in horror as the monster killed each of them in a slow meticulous manner. Eventually, five bodies sat in a pile in the center of the room with blood starting to pool onto the stone floor.

    ¡°Meridith¡¯s not going to be happy,¡± Kogna said looking at the bodies.

    ¡°We¡¯ll deal with her,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Have Oria send their heads to Blackhammer as a warning. We won¡¯t submit to his authority,¡± it turned to the bar, ¡°Come out girl.¡±

    Vaera squeaked but crawled out from her hiding spot. She stared at the ground trying desperately not to look at the bodies and the monster.

    ¡°You should be upstairs,¡± Reviled said.

    Vaera nodded and she quickly glanced at the bodies, ¡°Why¡­didn¡¯t you do as they asked?¡± She felt Reviled pull up her chin.

    ¡°Because you are part of our family,¡± Reviled said, ¡°And in this family, we don¡¯t betray each other.¡± Vaera¡¯s eyes turned to Kogna, and he nodded while showing off a glowing crest on his left hand. ¡°Go back upstairs child,¡± Reviled¡¯s voice drew her back, ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about this.¡± Vaera nodded and headed to the door, ¡°And send Oria down here.¡±

    Vaera turned and tried to curtsy, ¡°Yes sir.¡±

 Sneak Attack

    Raucous laughter shook the walls, and the heavenly scent of piping hot food filled the room. Adventurers drained their pints with the best liquor which was made even better when it didn¡¯t hurt their purse. A loud cheer came from one table as two burly adventurers engaged in a game of strength. The winner pumped his fists in the air. Meridith could help but laugh at the display.

    ¡°This is a lovely place,¡± Aberny said nursing his drink.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Meridith said leaning on the bar, ¡°I¡¯m glad that it was able to open.¡± Yula and Vaera walked out of the kitchen carrying bowls of hot stews and plates of steaming bread. ¡°We could use some more staff though.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll slow down eventually,¡± Aberny said with a laugh.

    ¡°Can you get them to quiet down for a minute?¡± Meridith gave Aberny a large grin.

    ¡°Watch this,¡±

    Aberny brought his thumb and forefinger to his mouth and produced a sharp whistle. It cut through the noise and caused everyone to fall silent.

    Meridith gave him a warm smile then turned to the crowd, ¡°Thank you everyone for showing up,¡± she said which caused everyone to cheer, ¡°To show my gratitude, I have someone to introduce you to,¡± she walked over to a wall with a rope and pulled on it. Mina appeared from the basement wearing a pink robe with blue flowers. Meridith placed her hands on Mina¡¯s shoulders, ¡°This is Mina, and she¡¯s going to sing for you all. So, please show her some support.¡±

    The crowd cheered, the men especially, as Mina took the stage. Mina plucked a sharp note which started a fast, jaunty tune. The crowd started clapping in beat with her playing. Mina¡¯s playing helped keep everyone busy while Yula and Vaera finished serving the food. Mina finished her first song with a strong note. The shout that followed shook the entire room. Mina gave the crowd the largest smile Meridith had ever seen, which caused a table of young men to blush, and she started playing another tune.

    ¡°Your attendant is quite skilled,¡± Aberny said, ¡°Your boss must be paying her a fortune.¡±

    ¡°He takes good care of us,¡± Meridith said watching Mina play.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad,¡± Aberny took a pensive drink, ¡°I¡¯m sorry about letting you go.¡±

    Meridith stared at her hands, ¡°I understand why you did it,¡± she said, ¡°But it worked well for me in the end, so all is forgiven. Not to mention, it worked well for you too.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t deny it,¡± he said with a laugh, ¡°I¡¯ll gladly come to the slums for the discount you¡¯re offering.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the point,¡± Meridith patted his shoulder, ¡°We want every adventurer to feel welcome here,¡± her smile turned twisted, ¡°And if they misbehave, I¡¯ll send you the bill.¡±

    ¡°Fair enough,¡±

    The hours flew by, and one by one the adventurers left in a drunken stumble. Vaera and Yula were cleaning up the last of the dishes before heading up to bed. Meridith closed the tavern and headed downstairs with Mina. Skivret, Nimble, and Preddie sat at one of the tables in the basement while Oria and Kogna sat at the bar nursing their glasses. Reviled sat in its box. Its eyes started to glow when they entered.

    ¡°Excellent work,¡± Reviled said as they sat in front of it, ¡°The adventurers will keep Samon from acting too hasty.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± Meridith said putting her hand in front of her mouth.

    ¡°Why is that?¡± Mina said failing to hold back her yawn.

    ¡°Adventurers are sometimes called to support the guards,¡± Meridith said, ¡°Because of this, they have the authority to arrest criminals. Not to mention, adventurers can be vindictive.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why you wanted to reestablish your relationship with the guild,¡± Mina said with wide eyes. Meridith nodded with a sleepy smile.

    ¡°Adventurers are also pretty simple too,¡± Meridith said, ¡°With a few exceptions, most adventurers are treated like ruffians, and they often pay more for services than any other citizens. But, by treating them well, we¡¯ve guaranteed their loyalty.¡±

    ¡°And we now have a barrier to protect us from Decker,¡± Reviled said, ¡°And we should take advantage of that.¡±

    ¡°What do you have in mind boss?¡± Oria said.

    ¡°There were several gangs keeping watch on the guild,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We had our familiars follow them back to their bases. And they all serve under Samon.¡± Reviled gestured for everyone to come near. ¡°We¡¯re going to weaken Samon¡¯s hold on the slums,¡± it said, ¡°Two of the gangs are based in warehouses not too far from sewer gates. Skivret, we¡¯ll leave these two bases to your wererats. Eliminate everyone in the warehouses.¡±

    ¡°Taking out a few thugs should be simple,¡± Skivret said scratching his scar, ¡°But I¡¯ll need to find something to rally everyone with.¡±

    ¡°You can take everything in the warehouse,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle, ¡°That should be enough incentive.¡± Reviled turned to Oria, ¡°Another gang is based in a gaming hall. A rundown shack in a back alley. I¡¯ll leave that one to you.¡±

    ¡°I know the place,¡± Oria said, ¡°But I¡¯ll need some shopping money.¡±

    ¡°Take what you need,¡± Reviled turned to Kogna, ¡°We¡¯ll be sending you to give Blackhammer a message personally.¡±

    A vicious smile came to Kogna¡¯s lips, ¡°As you command.¡±

    ¡°We want this done in three days,¡± Reviled said, ¡°And we want to control the slums by the end of the month.¡±The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    <hr>

    Skivret hid in the shadows of a couple of crates staring at a rundown warehouse nestled against the outer wall. A pair of guards passed by as they performed their nightly rounds. Damn monster didn¡¯t mention the guards. Skivret waited, and once the guards passed, he ordered the soldiers with him to approach the warehouse.

    The soldiers scurried up the wall and climbed up one another so that they could reach it. The wererat at the top silently opened the wooden shutter and climbed inside. After a few minutes, he threw down a rope and signaled for the others to climb up. Skivret turned to the sewer gate and released a low squeak. More soldiers scurried out of the sewers, and they followed Skivret up into the warehouse.

    The were rats silently skulked to the edge of the awning and looked down on the warehouse¡¯s first floor. Around twenty humans occupied the first floor. Each wore plain clothes with daggers strapped to their belts. Skivret couldn¡¯t see any wearing armor.

    ¡°When are we going to do something about that tavern?¡± one of the humans below said.

    ¡°Don¡¯t know, but Samon wants us to watch and be ready.¡±

    ¡°Was the windman there yesterday?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t see him,¡± Skivret was confused when the human brought his cupped hands to his chest, ¡°But damn, the women there were fine. That islander has a good eye.¡±

    ¡°What would you expect, he is their boss.¡±

    Skivret held back his laugh. The master will find this amusing. He gestured to the soldiers, and they climbed up into the rafters. Five crossed to the other side and descended to the first floor while another five descended from their end. Once everyone was in place, Skivret crawled up into the rafters and lined himself up with one of the humans below. He drew his dagger and with one last nod, jumped down.

    Skivret landed on the human¡¯s shoulders and drove his dagger into his target¡¯s throat. The other humans stared but were driven to the ground when the other wererats landed on them. The humans standing off to the side drew their weapons, only to be killed by the wererats hiding in the shadows. Skivret¡¯s whiskers twitched in approval. Best to be quick and efficient.

    Skivret pointed to three wererats, ¡°Go back to the sewers and get the followers,¡± He said, ¡°I want this warehouse cleaned out before the next patrol. I want everyone else to start going through everything. Pull out the most valuable stuff first, so that we get it to the sewers.¡±

    The wererats scurried off as Skivret dowsed the torches. Unlike humans, they wouldn¡¯t need the light.

    ¡°Sire,¡± Skivret turned to a soldier waving to him, ¡°Look.¡±

    The crate was filled with weapons, mainly shorts swords. Unlike their equipment, these swords were in excellent condition.

    ¡°Weapons,¡±

    ¡°This has armor,¡± another wererat called out.

    ¡°Bows and arrows over here.¡±

    ¡°Sire, this one has gold and silver.¡±

    ¡°Leave the treasure for the followers,¡± Skivret ordered, ¡°Go around and grab as many weapons as you can carry.¡± We have enough here to outfit an entire camp. I wonder how Nimble¡¯s team is doing.

    <hr>

    Dammit. Nimble stared down at the five heavily armed warriors on the ground floor. This is why the monster told me to take this warehouse! Her soldiers were looking over the edge alongside her. Their whiskers twitching nervously. One of the warriors scanned the upper awnings, and Nimble pushed herself back.

    Nimble knew that humans had skilled warriors among them. Most of them were at the tavern the other night, but she had never faced one before. Nimble peeked over again. At least they aren¡¯t wearing thick armor.

    ¡°What are you looking at?¡± Nimble ducked back at the human¡¯s voice.

    ¡°Just keeping an eye out,¡± another human said. Nimble¡¯s heart drummed in her ears. ¡°That¡¯s what we¡¯re being paid for.¡±

    ¡°Blackhammer¡¯s being a bit paranoid, don¡¯t you think? Having us man this warehouse as a trap.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s because he¡¯s taking the Legion seriously, especially after the incident.¡±

    ¡°Blackhammer wasn¡¯t pleased about that.¡±

    Dammit! Of course, the monster¡¯s rampage is the cause of all this.

    ¡°Did you check the oil traps?¡± Nimble¡¯s ears perked up.

    ¡°Why they¡¯re still ready. Just need to toss the torch, right?¡±

    Nimble scanned the area. Barrels lined the lower floor but there were no torches around them. She also noticed several barrels lined up along the wall behind her. She backed away slowly from the edge and gestured for the soldiers to follow. The barrels were tightly shut with lead and wax, but they each had a cork. She gestured for the others to get on either side, and they silently tipped one of the barrels over. Nimble then drew her dagger and stabbed it into the cork. Gently she worked the cork out of the hole.

    Pop!

    ¡°What was that!¡±

    ¡°Sounds like it came from above.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep them distracted,¡± Nimble whispered, ¡°Open the other barrels then lock the door from the outside.¡±

    Nimble quietly ran to the edge of the awning. She jumped down with her dagger pointed at the largest human, but he effortlessly stepped out of the way. Nimble rolled and faced the warriors.

    ¡°What¡¯s a sewer rat doing here?¡± the large warrior looked down at her in disgust.

    ¡°Must be trying to steal something. Just kill it already.¡±

    The large warrior lifted his hammer and swung down. Nimble jumped back, and the hammer struck the stone floor.

    You fight a lot like me. Oria once said to her. Nimble threw her dagger at the warrior, but he dodged it. So the best thing to do is get your opponent to move where you want them to, then strike when they aren¡¯t looking. Nimble ran up the hammer¡¯s shaft and jumped at the warrior¡¯s face. There¡¯s nothing greater than seeing that shocked look on their face right before they die. The warrior stared in horror as her short sword pierced his left eye. Nimble gave the blade a twist and jumped off as the body fell to the floor.

    ¡°Damn rat!¡± another warrior drew a bow and shot arrows at her.

    Nimble ran behind one of the pillars as the arrows flew past. Some lodged themselves into the oil barrels with rivulets of oil dripping down the arrow¡¯s shaft. Nimble pulled the arrows out to let the oil flow freely. A squeak to her right drew her attention, and she ducked. A blade passed above her and struck the wooden support. Nimble scurried under the attackers legs, drawing blood as she slashed at his calves, and ran along the barrels. Shadows moved to her left, and Nimble stopped just as a spear launched in front of her stabbing at the barrels to her right. Footsteps came from behind and she ducked under the spear. Nimble saw a ladder in front of her and headed towards it, but something pulled her off her feet and slammed her into a support pillar. The heat from a torch burned her ear.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you two?¡± a fighter wearing thick iron gloves looked at the other adventurers, ¡°How could you let it get away so easily.¡±

    Nimble reached into her belt and pulled out a sharp rock and threw it at the fighter¡¯s face. The fighter yelped in surprise and threw her across the room. She screamed as she hit the floor. She stared at her sword on the other side of the warehouse, and her right hand tightened around the torch she exchanged it for. Nimble smelled the oil pooling up behind her and tossed the torch over her shoulder.

    The warriors looked horrified as the flames rapidly grew and raced up the wooden walls. The heat started searing Nimble¡¯s fur, and the first explosion caused her to recoil. Blazing oil flew across the building setting the second-floor awning on fire along with the pooling oil on the other side.

    ¡°Damn it, we need to get out of here!¡± The warriors dashed for the door. Turned and climbed up the pillar. ¡°Damned Gods, why is the door locked?¡±

    Nimble ran towards the window on all fours. She gritted her teeth as hot oil splashed against her, and the heat burned her fur. The pain drove her forward, and she dove out of the window. Nimble gasped as she hit the ground and took several deep breaths as she watched the warehouse be engulfed in the fire.

    ¡°Lady Nimble, we need to get out of here!¡±

    Nimble felt the soldiers pick her up and carry her back to the sewers. I hope his majesty had an easier time. A thunderous roar blasted down the alley as they disappeared into the darkness.

 Feminine Wiles

    Oria lay on the plush red sofa, sipping on the glass of wine in her hand. The rich mahogany paneling glowed in the afternoon sun, and the music from the minstrels outside glided through the window. Honestly, this was the first time she experienced the luxury of the upper city, and she really liked it.

    ¡°What about this?¡±

    Oria lazily turned to Rylie as she stood on a velvet pedestal. The young woman wore a slim red dress with a slit up the left leg that ended at her hip. The collar hung low showing off her collarbone.

    Oria could help but laugh, ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s meant for your figure,¡± she said with a smirk.

    ¡°Then it wouldn¡¯t work for you either,¡± Rylie said with a sneer.

    ¡°Besides we need outfits that are more¡­revealing,¡±

    A laugh drew her attention to the other woman in the room, ¡°I doubt that would help you much,¡± Meridith said trying on a green and gold dress.

    ¡°Why are you here again?¡± Oria said tightening her grip on the glass stem.

    ¡°I¡¯ve given most of my clothes to Yula,¡± Meridith said looking at the other dresses in the room, ¡°So I need new clothes. But why are you here?¡±

    Oria sauntered to the other rack, ¡°The boss wants me and my gang to take out that small gambling den,¡± She pulled out a silk petticoat, ¡°But I doubt we could take it out with force, so we¡¯ll go with a more ¡®subtle¡¯ approach.¡±

    ¡°You¡­subtle?¡± Meridith laugh grated Oria¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    ¡°So, what¡¯s the plan?¡± Meridith smirked over her shoulder, ¡°Seduce the men then kill them one at a time? Not very effective.¡±

    ¡°No, but close,¡± Oria walked over to the table where Meridith¡¯s pouch sat. She pulled out the vial of Capcap¡¯s poison, ¡°I¡¯ll need more of this though.¡±

    <hr>

    Cheers shook the rickety wooden walls, and a thick haze of tobacco smoke lingered in the air. Cards slapped against tables and dice rattled in cups. Scantily dressed women walked along between the tables refilling mugs as the men freely groped at their exposed flesh. A rough hand slid under Oria¡¯s ruffled petticoat and squeezed her left cheek.

    ¡°Grab me another love,¡± the man said as he fingers pressed into her skin.

    Oria gave him a sweet smile, ¡°Sure thing sweet pea!¡± she said with a shrill country accent.

    Oria flashed the other patrons a toothy smile as she walked past. Hunger burned in their eyes. The black corset did nothing for her exposed breasts and the petticoat barely covered her goods, but she still sauntered through the room. All thanks to her shoes. The shoes forced her to walk on her toes since the heel was a long, thin piece of wood. It took her two days to learn to walk in them, but she was happy with the result. The men staring at her legs were happy too.

    Oria leaned over the bar, ¡°Can I get another ale sweetie,¡± she smiled as she tucked a strand of golden red hair behind her ear.

    ¡°S-sure thing,¡± the young bartender said. His eyes never left her bosom.

    Oria looked around the rickety shack. Three other women walked around the room serving the patrons. Places such as these often-used independent prostitutes, hoping to expand their client based, to serve their patrons.

    ¡°Whadda think you¡¯re doing,¡± Oria saw Rylie glaring down at one of the patrons, ¡°You want to touch the goods, then you need to pay up,¡± she slammed her heel into the man¡¯s foot. His smile grew as he groaned in pain. ¡°Disgusting.¡± Rylie flipped her black hair and walked towards the bar.

    ¡°You¡¯ve gotten into the role,¡± Oria said with a smirk.

    ¡°Better than playing the country bumpkin,¡± Rylie blew at her bangs, ¡°I should have chosen to dye my hair a different color.¡±

    ¡°Too late now,¡± Oria said. She smiled at the bartender as he placed a mug in front of her, ¡°Let¡¯s get started.¡±

    Oria opened the false seam in her leather cuff revealing a white powder. She placed a pinch of the powder in the mug and stirred it with her finger. Oria walked back the burly man.

    ¡°Here you are sweetie,¡± Oria said running her hand through his hair.

    ¡°Thanks sweetheart.¡± Oria moaned when he reached between her legs.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take another too.¡±

    ¡°Same.¡±

    ¡°How bout I bring drinks for the entire table,¡± The table cheered as Oria walked away.

    Rylie walked past her and stopped in front of table of young men, ¡°Drink up.¡± She said with a sneer.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.

    ¡°Sure,¡± Rylie said with a smile. She brought the cup to his lips and slowly poured. Her smile turned dark, and she poured it over his face. ¡°Did you enjoy that?¡±

    The young man gave her a hungry smile and pulled her into his lap, ¡°I¡¯ll enjoy this,¡± he said pulling her into a kiss, but Rylie blocked it with the mug.

    ¡°That¡¯ll cost extra,¡± she said. She smiled when she looked at the card game, ¡°And it doesn¡¯t look like you can afford it.¡±

    The man released Rylie as the others laughed at him. It was a slow process. Spiking individual drinks with mushroom powder was a delicate process. With a limited supply, they had to be frugal but according to Meridith, even a small dose of Cappy¡¯s mushrooms would have a strong effect. Oria could see it slowly working.

    The men were starting to get rowdier as their eyes were slowly glazing over. Their speech started to slur, and their movements were becoming sloppy. Oria looked over to Rylie and tapped her cheek twice. Rylie nodded and went back to work. Gotta be careful. Nothing more dangerous than a man who loses control of himself.

    ¡°You boys having fun?¡±

    Oria¡¯s back straightened as she turned to the door. A large man walked in. His sleeveless doublet hung open showing off the collection of scars on his muscular torso. Both his earlobes were wrinkled and torn, and a jagged scar ran down the left side of his face. His hair was nothing but fuzz, and two hatchets hung at his hips. Dammit, what¡¯s Briar doing here?

    ¡°Hey¡­what are you doing here?¡± one of the men stumbled out of his chair and approached Briar, ¡°Thought you¡¯d be¡­be with the big boss.¡±

    ¡°Samon sent me to check on you,¡± Briar said, his sneer growing as he looked around the room, ¡°He wants an update.¡±

    ¡°N-nothing new,¡± the man¡¯s smiled crookedly at Briar.

    Briar took a deep breath then slammed his fist into the man¡¯s face. The drunk¡¯s knees buckled, and he hit the floor hard. Briar held up his bloody hand.

    ¡°Then maybe should get back to work,¡± Briar¡¯s tone caused the men to become slightly more sober.

    Oria walked over to Rylie who was standing next to the bar.

    ¡°What do we do now?¡± Rylie said, hiding her face behind her hair.

    ¡°Give me a minute,¡± Oria said. After a few seconds she sighed, ¡°Leave Briar to me, you continue with the plan, but increase the amount of powder.¡± Rylie nodded as she placed a large pinch of powder in two mugs.

    Oria grabbed a mug for herself and sauntered over to Briar. He sat at a table in the center of the room with his arms crossed and his eyes closed. Oria placed the mug in front of him and slid on the table.

    ¡°Looks like you could use this darlin¡¯,¡± she said.

    Briar¡¯s eyes lingered on her long legs, and slowly rose them to her face, ¡°You¡¯re new,¡±

    ¡°Just strolled into town a few days ago,¡± Oria said crossing her legs, ¡°I wanted to see the city, so here I am.¡±

    ¡°Is that so,¡± Briar leaned closer and let his hand stroke her legs. He took a deep drink.

    ¡°Must be stressful,¡± Oria gestured to the others.

    ¡°Sometimes, but it¡¯s not as bad as the nobles,¡± Briar said, ¡°But I do need to relieve my stress.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s a bit crowded in here,¡± Oria got up, ¡°Does outside work?¡±

    ¡°You truly are a country girl.¡± Briar laughed as he followed her outside.

    Oria shivered as she stepped outside, but she grabbed Briar¡¯s arm and led him around the back. Briar grabbed her hips, turned her around, then hoisted her onto a crate. Oria giggled as she wrapped her legs around him. Oria licked her fingers and reached around Briar¡¯s head, so she could coat her fingers in the powder. Briar forced his lips against hers and pushed his tongue into her mouth. Oria pulled back with a smile and placed her fingers over Briar¡¯s lips. Briar took her fingers in his mouth and bit down hard which caused Oria to hiss in pain.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like being interrupted,¡± Briar said.

    Oria pouted then nibbled his ear, ¡°Don¡¯t be mean,¡± she said as she coated her fingers again and gently ran them through his left ear, ¡°I want to enjoy this too.¡±

    Briar grabbed and lifted Oria and started giving attention to her breasts. Oria moaned and dug her nails into his neck, drawing blood, which caused him to bite down. Oria sprinkled mushroom powder over the wounds. Briar lowered her and started rubbing against her.

    ¡°Damn girl, you like it rough,¡± he said slamming her against the wall. Briar¡¯s arms started shaking.

    ¡°Is something wrong darlin¡¯,¡± Oria said with smile.

    Briar released her. His breathing became shallow and sweat poured from his face. Oria unlocked her legs and stood up, then pushed him back. Briar fell to the floor with foam forming around his mouth.

    ¡°It¡¯s a pity,¡± Oria said, dropping her accent, ¡°We could have had a good time, but I have a job to do.¡±

    Briar¡¯s breathing quickened until it finally stopped. Oria reached into Briar¡¯s pocket and pulled out a rag and wiped down her hands and chest. Then she walked back to the front and whistled. The five other members walked out of the shadows.

    ¡°Get ready boys,¡± Oria said, ¡°Wait till I call you.¡±

    ¡°Sure, thing boss,¡± the lanky boy said slapping her ass.

    Oria gave him a dark smile, ¡°Try that again Zak,¡± she said.

    ¡°Sorry,¡±

    Oria walked into the den. Rylie looked over with a worried look, and Oria understood why. The men were starting to get rough. Two men were shouting at each other about cheating. Another grabbed one of the women and forced her onto the table, but another man pushed him away. The man stumbled back, then roared and pushed him to the ground. A knife rose in the air and was brought down drawing blood. Chaos followed.

    The two shouting men flipped the table and went to blows. The two men drew their weapons and started cutting each other. Others tried to intervene only to get stabbed. Rylie tipped over a table and hid behind it. Oria ducked behind the bar and watched from safety. Daggers stabbed flesh. Mugs bashed in skulls. Men tackled to the ground as they broke tables and chairs. The fighting lasted forever and ended in a flash.

    Oria slowly rose from her hiding spot. A few of the men groaned in pain, but most stared into nothingness. Rylie wiped away the blood splatter on her face and arms. The other women cowered in the corner crying. The bartender rose from behind the bar.

    ¡°Get in here!¡± Oria called out.

    The other members rushed inside. ¡°Damn.¡± They stared in shock.

    ¡°There are a few still alive, finish them off,¡± Oria said, ¡°Then grab any valuables you can find.¡±

    ¡°What about them,¡± Emmett gestured to the others.

    ¡°Don¡¯t kill us, please.¡±

    ¡°Take anything you want!¡±

    ¡°I have a family that needs me.¡±

    Oria slowly approached them, ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± she said, ¡°We¡¯re here to take out the gang. But¡­I can¡¯t say the same for Samon.¡±

    One of the prostitutes tore at her hair, ¡°What are we supposed to do now?¡±

    Two of Oria¡¯s men wrapped an arm around them, ¡°I¡¯m sure we can think of something, right boss?¡±

    Oria looked at the young men with a sneer, and then saw Rylie hanging off the bartender, ¡°Fine,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring this up to the boss, but no promises.¡±

    The gang cheered as they went about their work. Oria chuckled as she wrapped herself in a cloak. Dammit, I¡¯m going soft.

 Broken Foundations

    Samon pressed himself into the plush sofa with two beautiful women pressed against his sides. His men were below engaged in lively gambling. Of course there was the occasional fight that ended in drunken reconciliation. A content smile came to his lips. Decker may be king of the city, but right now, he ruled this little kingdom.

    The door to the den burst from its hinges and landed in the middle of the room. Samon growled as the Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman slowly walked into the room. Why can¡¯t they just disappear? The Amu''Ryjin swordsman smirked and looked up at Samon.

    ¡°I have a message for you Blackhammer,¡± the swordsman said, ¡°Your kingdom¡¯s coming to an end.¡±

    ¡°Alone?¡± Samon laughed, ¡°That¡¯s funny windman, but I don¡¯t quite like your joke. Get him out of here boys.¡±

    The men rushed with their weapons raised towards the swordsman. The Amu¡¯Ryjin sidestepped each attack, and he parried the attacks so that they hit a different person. The swordsman tripped one man and struck another in the neck. Samon stood and gripped the wooden rail tightly as he watched his men get beat. Ten men with swords rushed at the swordsman at once, and he jumped high in the air. Then jumped again in midair so that he landed safely on the second floor.

    ¡°I¡¯m a little disappointed,¡± the swordsman said with a deep sigh, ¡°I¡¯ve seen children more skilled with branches,¡± he grasped his sword and stepped onto the railing, ¡°Time to show you real skill.¡±

    The swordsman drew and slashed into the air. A powerful blast of wind tore through the first floor, flipping tables, knocking over men, and broke the support pillars on the other side of the den causing that portion of the second floor to fall. The swordsman jumped from his perch and slashed the air again destroying the section of the den he once stood on. The swordsman landed softly and stared up at Samon, then destroyed the supports of the second floor Samon stood on.

    The balcony broke apart and leaned forward. Samon yelled and grabbed his hammer from behind the sofa and jumped down to the first floor. The screams of the two prostitutes were drowned out by the crash of breaking wood.

    ¡°No more fucking around,¡± Samon said. His vision focusing on the swordsman, ¡°I¡¯m going to make you pay for this, and I¡¯ll start with that Amu¡¯Ryjin woman.¡±

    The swordsman¡¯s smirk vanished, ¡°Thank you for reminding me,¡± he said taking his sword in both hands, ¡°You still have to pay for what you did to my sister.¡±

    Samon ran forward and swung his war hammer, but the swordsman sidestepped and slashed at Samon¡¯s hip. The blade cut the fabric of his tunic, but it stopped before hitting flesh. Samon swung at him again, but he dodged it. The sheen of metal could be seen from the cut cloth.

    ¡°Brigandine armor,¡± Samon said with smirk, ¡°Much more effective than that wooden armor you primitive islanders use.¡±

    The swordsman scowled as he sheathed his sword, then drew his sword and released a slash of air. Samon thrusted his hammer¡¯s head into the attack and broke it. Samon rushed forward and swung his it wide. The swordsman jumped back, then jumped to the side mid-air, and jumped behind Samon. Samon swung to the side, trying to intercept him, but the swordsman jumped over the attack. Samon groaned as the blade cut deep into his shoulder. The swordsman jumped off Samon¡¯s back and shoved him into a pile of debris.

    ¡°Can¡¯t do that in metal armor, can you?¡± the swordsman said, ¡°But then again, you mainlanders can¡¯t perform eru¡¯mure.¡±

    Samon¡¯s men freed themselves from underneath the broken wood. Slowly, they picked up wooden boards.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s time I leave,¡± the swordsman said.

    The swordsman sent several air slashes towards the ceiling that cut through the rafters and roof. Wooden beams fell, and the roof groaned under its weight. The swordsman ran out the front door. Samon ran after him, but the ceiling fell blocking the door. Samon dove under a table and covered his head as the building collapsed.

    Darkness surrounded Samon. The groans from the building quieted down. He pushed at the broken wood above him and freed himself from the debris. Samon stared at the broken den. Five of his men surfaced from the rubble. Five out of forty. Samon screamed into the night as he slammed in hammer onto the ground.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    <hr>

    Kogna leaned against the building trying to get his breathing under control. He took deep breaths through his nose and slowly breathed out through his mouth. This is what I get for neglecting eru¡¯mure training. Kogna pushed himself off the wall. I don¡¯t have a Kubonshiri to guide me. A clash of thunder caught his attention, but the sky was completely clear.

    ¡°Better get back,¡± Kogna said under his breath.

    Kogna made his way back to the tavern. He could see smoke rising in the distance. Guards rushed past with their hands on their weapons as they headed towards it. As he turned down the street the tavern was on, he ran into Oria and her gang.

    ¡°Everything go well on your end?¡± Oria flashed him a bright smile.

    ¡°Yes. You?¡±

    ¡°No problems on my end,¡± Oria said, ¡°But it left me a bit tense. Mind helping me relieve some stress?¡±

    ¡°No,¡±

    ¡°Asshole,¡±

    Kogna chucked as he steppe inside, ¡°Who are they?¡±

    ¡°New recruits,¡± Oria said with a yawn. She stretched her arms which revealed her nearly naked body, ¡°We could use some more people.¡±

    ¡°You can tell that to him in person,¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled stared at the group assembled before it. It was a long night, and they were clearly tired, but they needed to know how everything went. The only one not there was Nimble.

    ¡°Skivret, report,¡± Reviled said.

    ¡°The raid on Samon¡¯s warehouse was a success,¡± Skivret said, ¡°Inside we found weapons, armor, and treasure in vast quantities. My forces will be more effective to you now that we can supply them with proper equipment,¡± Skivret¡¯s ears slumped, ¡°Nimble had some problems though. Apparently, the warehouse she raided was a trap, and was manned by strong warriors. She was able to turn the trap against them, but she¡¯ll need time to recover from the fight.¡±

    ¡°Understood,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We were aware of the trap, but we¡¯re glad that nothing happened to Nimble. Oria, how did things go for you?¡±

    ¡°Things went well on my end,¡± Oria said sipping her whisky, ¡°Rylie and I were able to take out the gang thanks to Cappy¡¯s mushrooms. We even took out one of Samon¡¯s top lieutenants when he was visiting.¡±

    ¡°We weren¡¯t expecting that,¡±

    ¡°Neither was I, but it worked to our advantage,¡± Oria smiled, ¡°I recommend we utilize more of Cappy¡¯s mushrooms in the future. We could make a lot of money selling it as a drug and poison.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll take that into consideration. Anything else,¡±

    ¡°I brought some new recruits,¡± Oria said, ¡°They can help with the tavern, and since two of them are prostitutes, we can whore them out.¡±

    ¡°This is a tavern, not a brothel!¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°Piss off Red,¡± Oria sighed heavily, ¡°Prostitution is a part of slums. Hundreds, if not thousands, of women are engaged in it. And Decker¡¯s is a key player,¡± Oria crawled into the box and wrapped her arms around Reviled, ¡°You understand, right boss. We take in the independents. Get them clean, pretty them up, and we can make a killing off them. And if we can find a proper madam, we¡¯ll be one step closer to taking over the city from Decker.¡±

    ¡°We can do that without-¡±

    ¡°Enough Meridith,¡± Reviled said, ¡°She¡¯s right,¡± it stared into Oria¡¯s eyes, ¡°So, any ideas where we can find a madam?¡±

    ¡°A few, but nothing for certain,¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll leave that to you, until we recruit one,¡± Reviled turned to Kogna, ¡°How did Samon take out message?¡±

    ¡°Not well,¡± Kogna said setting down his cup, ¡°Firstly, he thinks I¡¯m in charge.¡±

    ¡°I heard the same thing from thugs in the warehouse,¡± Skivret snickered.

    Reviled¡¯s chuckle echoed through the room, ¡°It seems Blackhammer is a bigger fool than we thought,¡± it said, ¡°Sounds like he isn¡¯t communicating with the other nobles.¡±

    ¡°He also had his goons attack me,¡± Kogna continued with a vicious grin, ¡°So I collapsed his castle on top of him.¡±

    ¡°You what!¡± Mina ran to her brother, ¡°How could you do something so reckless?¡±

    ¡°He was responsible for kidnapping you,¡± Kogna said, ¡°Killing a few of his men wasn¡¯t enough for me.¡±

    ¡°But still¡­¡±

    ¡°Excellent decision,¡± Reviled said.

    Mina turned in shock, ¡°Master!¡±

    ¡°Mina, we aren¡¯t going to forgive those who wrong us,¡± Reviled approached her and patted her head, ¡°It¡¯s important that everyone not to cross us.¡± Mina sighed and nodded. ¡°Excellent work, all of you,¡± it said looking at everyone, ¡°But we can¡¯t rest now. Samon¡¯s hold on the slums is broken, and we need to keep pushing forward. Oria, we¡¯ll need you to take over recruiting more members. Kogna, you¡¯ll support Oria by training our new members. Eventually, we¡¯ll need you to take charge.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± Oria and Kogna said.

    ¡°Skivret, we¡¯re going to start using the sewers. See to it that your people are ready to work with humans.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯ll be easier after tonight,¡±

    ¡°Meridith, you¡¯ll be overseeing everyone. Start by having the prostitutes be cleansed at the temple, then by supplying Oria¡¯s men with proper gear.¡±

    ¡°As you wish master.¡±

    ¡°What about me?¡± Mina said.

    ¡°We want you to support Meridith for now.¡±

    Mina lowered her head, ¡°I¡­understand,¡±

    ¡°Master,¡± Meridith said drawing everyone¡¯s attention, ¡°I have some news you¡¯ll like to hear. Your parts should be finished by tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Finally!¡± Reviled said, ¡°Skivret, see to it that Rench is ready. We want our repairs to begin as soon as those parts arrive.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡±

    ¡°You should all be proud of what you¡¯ve done today,¡± Reviled said taking them in, ¡°We¡¯ve broken the foundation on which Decker built his kingdom. It¡¯s only a matter of time before it crumbles all together.¡±

 On Our Own

    Samon slammed the tin cup on the shoddy bar, and it crumpled in his hands. He growled and tossed it across the room. It struck the opposite wall of the single room shack sitting in a back alley. The whore he hired from Reina poured him another cup, her hands shook the entire time.

    ¡°Damn it!¡± Samon said downing his drink, ¡°How did things turn out this way?¡±

    The shack was the former hangout of a small gang under him, but they were found dead. Briar was found dead just outside, and what¡¯s worse, none of the other businesses in the area would house him.

    ¡°And Reina sent me a cow to replace the ones that died,¡± Samon glared at the prostitute on the other end of the bar.

    The girl lowered her head in shame. As she should. The girl had a crooked nose with wide nostrils, and her head was slightly too big for her body. Not to mention, her beady eyes bothered him greatly.

    ¡°She¡¯s pissed because you killed two of her best girls.¡±

    Samon sneered as the rat faced man sat next to him, ¡°What are you doing here Andren?¡±

    ¡°Sire¡¯s disappointed with your recent failure,¡± Andren flicked his greasy black hair out of his eyes, ¡°He ordered me to help you get rid of the Legion, and there¡¯s no getting out of it this time.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t need you and your rats to help me,¡± Samon said, ¡°Once I recover, I''ll head to that tavern and crush the windman under my hammer.¡±

    ¡°The Amu¡¯Ryjin isn¡¯t the leader,¡± Andren sipped his drink.

    ¡°What,¡±

    "The Amu¡¯Ryjin warrior is the enforcer,¡± Andren said with a condescending smile, ¡°Oria is in charge the criminal operations while a former guild receptionist is running the legal business.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s the boss?¡± Samon finished another drink.

    ¡°Don¡¯t know,¡± Andren said with a growl, ¡°None of my informants can find anything on him. But he¡¯s resourceful, and he must have something on Sire if he isn¡¯t dealing with this directly.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we just go in there and destroy them directly?¡±

    Andren pulled out a lock of rough brown hair onto the bar, ¡°Because there¡¯s more of them than we first thought,¡± Samon stared at the hair in confusion, ¡°It¡¯s wererat fur.¡±

    ¡°Why are you carrying around rat fur?¡± Samon said swiping the fur off the counter.

    ¡°Because I found it in one of your warehouses that was raided,¡± Andren said, ¡°Looks like the boss of the Legion has forced the wererats into his services.¡±

    ¡°Dammit!¡±

    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean we can¡¯t tear them apart,¡± Andren smiled viciously, ¡°I think it¡¯s time that we punish Oria for going against the King.¡±

    <hr>

    Meridith sat at the bar humming to herself as she read. She pursed her lips as a particular passage caught her interest. Magic isn¡¯t what I thought it would be. She looked at the candle next to her and pointed her finger.

    ¡°Erupt light and heat,¡± she said, ¡°Spark.¡± The wick ignited for a second then went out. A sudden wave of exhaustion hit her.

    ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡± Vaera said from across the dining room.

    ¡°No dear, I¡¯m practicing magic,¡± Meridith said holding up a flimsy book, ¡°I asked Master to teach me, so he gave me this book to study while he undergoes repairs.¡±

    ¡°Great,¡± Oria scoffed from the corner of the room, nursing a drink. Meridith scowled, Can¡¯t that bitch put some damn clothes on? ¡°So, when can we expect you to start slinging spells?¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t be doing that anytime soon,¡± Meridith said.

    ¡°Why,¡± Vaera peeked at the book, ¡°Is magic that hard?¡±

    ¡°Well, it seems so,¡± Meridith said, ¡°It seems the hardest part about magic is harnessing and directing the natural mana in the air.¡±

    ¡°Natural mana?¡±

    ¡°According to this book, there are three types of mana in our world. Divine, Necrotic, and Natural,¡± she said pointing to a picture in the book. It was a circle with three spirals entangled inside, ¡°Miracles and healing harness divine magic. Necromancy, and curses harness necrotic, and all other spells harness natural. The hardest part about spellcasting is being able to pick out and harness the right type of mana the spell needs.¡±

    ¡°Is that why your spell didn¡¯t work?¡± Vaera said looking at the smoking wick.

    ¡°I guess,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I don¡¯t quite know why it failed.¡±

    ¡°Maybe you didn¡¯t say the right words,¡± Oria smirked as she wiggled her fingers.

    Meridith growled, ¡°It wasn¡¯t the incantation,¡± she said, ¡°Apparently it doesn¡¯t matter what words you use. It¡¯s the intent and desire behind the words that matter.¡± Meridith closed the book with a sad smile, ¡°To think Ilan figured this out without being trained at the academy.¡±

    ¡°We have a problem.¡±

    Mina, Yula, and Kogna came in carrying the groceries needed for tonight, but all eyes fell to the young boy that followed them inside. The left side of his face was red and puffy, and his left eye was practically swollen shut. Tears ran down the right side of his cheek as he searched the room and ran towards Oria.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

    ¡°Teddy,¡± Oria kneeled and inspected him, ¡°What the fuck happened!¡±

    ¡°T-they took her,¡± Teddy said, his voice muffled from his swollen lips, ¡°I tried¡­to stop them!¡±

    ¡°Who, Teddy,¡± Oria wiped away his tears, ¡°Who took who?¡±

    ¡°Sis, they¡­took Sissy,¡± Teddy buried his face into Oria¡¯s chest, ¡°Andren brought his men to the brothel¡­and they took her away.¡±

    ¡°Shit,¡± Oria hugged the boy, ¡°Don¡¯t worry Teddy, we¡¯ll get her back.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s Andren?¡± Mina asked from the bar.

    ¡°He¡¯s a noble working for the king,¡± Yula said, ¡°He uses the poor and destitute as his personal spies and minions. They¡¯re deathly loyal because they¡¯re so dependent on Andren¡¯s generosity.¡±

    ¡°Oria¡­what do we do?¡± Teddy looked up at her.

    Oria pulled Teddy into a tight hug. I don¡¯t know. She gritted her teeth, ¡°Can you think of something, Red?¡± she said.

    ¡°I¡¯ll send a message to Skivret,¡± Meridith said petting Teddy¡¯s head, ¡°We¡¯ll get your sister back sweetie.¡±

    Teddy hugged Meridith tightly and buried his face into her chest, ¡°Cheeky bastard,¡± Oria smiled as Teddy chuckled.

    <hr>

    ¡°So, this is the place?¡± Meridith stared at the rickety shack.

    ¡°Suits Blackhammer perfectly,¡± Kogna chuckled as he kept his eyes on the homeless randomly squatting on the dark streets, ¡°It¡¯s going to be difficult if we have to fight.¡±

    ¡°Backups arrived,¡± Oria said, ¡°Roofs. Shame he couldn¡¯t send more.¡±

    Meridith nodded, ¡°Someone reissued a bounty on the wererats,¡± she said, ¡°Skivret trying to secure his hold on the sewers and fight them off.¡± She smoothed out her dress, ¡°Let me do the talking.¡±

    Meridith stepped up to the door and knocked on it. A tall, thin man with greasy black hair opened the door and smiled down at her.

    ¡°What a surprise. I wasn¡¯t expecting a beautiful woman to show up,¡± his eyes lingered before turning to Oria, ¡°Good, the brat delivered our message. Come inside.¡±

    Several men sat at the tables dispersed around the room. Their eyes taking in Meridith hungrily. At the bar sat Samon along with two women attending to him. They both looked distressed as they served him drinks.

    Samon downed his drink and glared at Kogna, ¡°Ready to go again windman?¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s try and keep this civil please,¡± Meridith said with a warm smile.

    ¡°The men are talking sweetheart,¡± Samon chuckled, ¡°Go get changed and start serving drinks.¡±

    Meridith laughed and playfully slapped Samon¡¯s chest, ¡°As fun as that sounds, I think I¡¯ll do the talking,¡± she said, ¡°After all, I wouldn¡¯t want another building to fall on you again.¡±

    ¡°You bitch!¡± Samon glared as he raised his fist.

    ¡°Enough,¡± the thin man said drawing their attention.

    Samon spit on the floor, ¡°Fine Andren, you do the talking.¡± He took his seat back at the bar.

    ¡°Are you all right Ada?¡± Oria looked at the girls.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­fine,¡± Ada said. She was slightly shorter than Meridith but was more well-endowed. Her soft curves gave her a mature motherly look that was accentuated by her large brown eyes.

    Meridith took a seat at the bar, ¡°I take it there was a reason for kidnapping Oria¡¯s friend?¡± she said, looking at Andren who sat next to Samon.

    ¡°We needed to send a message. You understand.¡± Andren said with a lazy smile.

    ¡°I do,¡± Meridith said with a soft laugh, ¡°The perception of strength is the greatest weapon you have. You can¡¯t have their respect if they don¡¯t fear you. However, I think you¡¯re taking it out on the wrong person.¡±

    ¡°Who should I be going after then?¡±

    Meridith smiled, ¡°Did the King ever meet with anyone. A¡­wizard perhaps?¡±

    Andren looked back in confusion, ¡°Yes, but he¡¯s¡­¡±

    ¡°Missing,¡± Meridith said with a growing smile, ¡°Odd how he disappears around the time all this mayhem starts. You know, the murders, the ants at the arena¡­the Legion.¡±

    ¡°Stop trying to change,¡±

    ¡°Shut up Samon!¡± Andren said glaring at her, ¡°You¡¯re saying Decker has something to do with this?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you didn¡¯t already know,¡± Meridith sighed, ¡°Even before all this, I could tell something wasn¡¯t right.¡±

    ¡°When you worked at the guild,¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± she tapped her fingers, ¡°I found it odd that Decker was pushing to have the rats eliminated. He was practically throwing money at the guild to get adventurers down there, and then suddenly, he pulls the request.¡±

    Andrew chuckled, ¡°The sewer rats have always been a problem,¡±

    ¡°Fifteen golds worth?¡± Andren¡¯s smile faded, ¡°Maybe you¡¯re right, and I¡¯m ignorant on how this all works.¡± Her smile turned to a pout, ¡°By the way, I¡¯m still mad at Baron for that trick he played on me.¡±

    ¡°What,¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t he tell you about me?¡± Meridith gave him a sad look, ¡°He¡¯s known that I¡¯ve been involved in this for nearly a year. I would have expected him to tell you.¡±

    ¡°Baron, does things his own way,¡±

    Samon slammed his fist, ¡°Why are we still talking?¡± the other men in shack yelled in agreement.

    ¡°Look, we don¡¯t want to fight,¡± Meridith said with a disarming smile, ¡°We just want to take Ada back to her little brother.¡±

    ¡°You attacked us,¡± Samon growled.

    ¡°And you kidnapped one of us,¡± Meridith said looking to Andren, ¡°Did you truly expect us to take that lying down?¡±

    Andren tapped his fingers on the bar, ¡°Fine, take her and leave.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re letting them walk away!¡± Samon said standing up, ¡°I thought we were going to punish them?¡±

    ¡°Clearly they¡¯re more to this feud than an upstart gang,¡± Andren said with a sigh, ¡°And I¡¯m not going to lose anymore men until I know more,¡± He looked at Meridith, ¡°I¡¯m going to come for you if things don¡¯t add up sweetheart, and you won¡¯t like what I have planned.¡±

    Meridith gave him a sly smile, ¡°Until then,¡± she said, ¡°Come Ada, your brother is worried sick.¡±

    Meridith could feel the hateful stares on them as they left the shack, and the tense atmosphere dissipated as they stepped out into the open street.

    ¡°I gotta hand it to you Red,¡± Oria said with a sigh of relief, ¡°I didn¡¯t think we¡¯d get out there in one piece.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not the only one,¡± Meridith said with her own sigh, ¡°It¡¯s fortunate for us that Decker isn¡¯t letting his people know about the situation. We can use that to sow strife within his own organization.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about this someplace safe,¡± Kogna said eyeing the homeless.

    ¡°Yes please, I want to see Teddy.¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°Sissy!¡± Teddy ran and hugged his sister tightly.

    Ada wrapped her arms around her brother, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you worry,¡±

    ¡°Did everything go well?¡± Mina said, looking them over.

    Oria nodded, ¡°Thanks to Red,¡± she said, ¡°Who knew she had a silver tongue.¡± She looked to her friends, ¡°What are you going to do now?¡±

    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t know,¡± Ada said, ¡°The brothel won¡¯t take me back after this. The last thing they¡¯ll want is to get on the King¡¯s bad side. And I don¡¯t have the money to leave the city.¡±

    ¡°You can join us,¡± Oria said looking to Meridith, ¡°I think the boss will be fine with that.¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s free to stay here until he returns,¡± Meridith said from her chair, ¡°After that it¡¯s his decision.¡±

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ada said wiping her tears, ¡°I promise I¡¯ll do anything.¡±

    ¡°Same here,¡± Teddy said, ¡°My gang will do everything we can to help.¡±

    ¡°We can discuss this more later,¡± Meridith said rubbing her shoulder, ¡°It¡¯s late, and I need a bath.¡±

    <hr>

    Andren stared up at the ceiling from his dirty mattress. The soft snoring from his partner brought a sense of comfort. He wrapped an arm around her and let his hand rest against her plump breast. If Samon isn¡¯t going to enjoy her, then I will. He smiled at her soft moans as his hands played with her. He buried his face into her hair and breathed deeply. She smelled of roses and cinnamon.

    I don¡¯t like this. He closed his eyes as drowsiness washed over him. Meridith¡¯s words echoed through his mind, and it made his spine shiver. What have you done, Decker?

 Onomori

    Everyone held their breath as Rench secured Reviled¡¯s chest plate back on. The silence weighed on them. Oppressed them. The monster¡¯s eyes lit up, and it rose to a seated position. Reviled¡¯s gaze fell to its new left arm. It twitched, and the metal screamed as the arm started moving. Slowly, the grinding disappeared as Reviled continued working its arm.

    ¡°It¡¯s stiff,¡± Reviled said looking to Rench.

    ¡°I¡¯ll try oiling the joints,¡± Rench grabbed a broken bowl full of lantern oil and lightly drizzled it over the arm. ¡°How¡¯s that?¡±

    Reviled flexed his arm, ¡°Better,¡± It¡¯s mandibles cried as they opened and closed repeatedly. They no longer had the sharp teeth, but a thick wedge that could crush a skull, ¡°Our mandibles could use some too.¡± Rench oiled the gears and sat behind everyone else, ¡°Update,¡± It said, continuing to work its mouth.

    ¡°Samon tried retaliating against us while you were out,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But we were able to handle it.¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Samon and another noble kidnapped one of Oria¡¯s friends,¡± She said, ¡°Kogna, Oria, and I went to negotiate her return. I was able to convince them into a temporary truce by implicating Decker is behind all this, and it looks like it worked. The loyalty between Decker and his nobles is starting to break.¡±

    ¡°Good, we can use this,¡± Reviled said with a chuckle, ¡°Who was the other noble?¡±

    ¡°His name¡¯s Andren,¡± Oria said biting her nail, ¡°He provides Decker with information, and contracts assassins.¡±

    ¡°So, he¡¯s key to Decker¡¯s organization,¡± Reviled said, ¡°And how is your friend, Oria?¡±

    ¡°Ada¡¯s doing fine boss,¡± Oria smiled, ¡°She¡¯s still a bit shaken up, but she¡¯ll recover.¡±

    ¡°I recommend we bring her into the fold,¡± Meridith said drawing everyone¡¯s attention, ¡°Despite being a prostitute, she¡¯s proven to be valuable by helping me with the tavern. Actually, she¡¯s pretty much been running it by herself.¡±

    ¡°Is that so,¡± Reviled tapped its fingers.

    ¡°Ada¡¯s able to keep my boys in line, and that¡¯s saying something,¡± Oria laughed, ¡°There hasn¡¯t been a man yet who could withstand her charms.¡±

    ¡°She must be an incredible woman, if she can get you two to agree,¡± Reviled¡¯s chuckle echoed, ¡°Very well, we will accept your recommendation.¡±

    ¡°What do we do now?¡± Kogna said sitting in the back.

    Reviled stood, ¡°We¡¯ve broken Samon¡¯s hold on the lower city. We¡¯ve sown distrust among his subordinates, and now, we are whole,¡± it said with arms wide, ¡°Why not take this time to celebrate.¡±

    Cappy screamed at the top of her lungs, ¡°Party!¡± she jumped on top of Antwuan and rode her out of the tent.

    ¡°There¡¯s something you should know master,¡± Skivret said, ¡°Adventurers have been entering the sewers in mass lately. It seems they¡¯re hunting my people and trying to locate our camps.¡±

    ¡°Was the bounty reissues?¡±

    ¡°It looks like it,¡± Meridith said, ¡°But not by Decker. Samon issued the bounty.¡±

    Reviled growled as it stroked its chin, ¡°Have your loses been great?¡±

    ¡°No master,¡± Skivret sighed, ¡°They¡¯ve only attacked scouting parties we have out, and we¡¯re using the sewers to evade them. But it¡¯s only a matter of time before they find one of our camps.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Reviled turned to Kogna, ¡°How¡¯s they¡¯re training coming?¡±

    ¡°Well, enough,¡± Kogna said with a shrug, ¡°Overall, the bulk of the soldiers should be able to fight against any adventure and soldier, but we lack any who could fight against heroes, save for Nimble.¡±

    ¡°Then that¡¯s what we¡¯ll focus on next,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Gather the best among them and train them. Skivret, see to it they are properly equipped.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡± they both said.

    Everyone left the tent to go about their tasks. Reviled was the last to leave. The guards manning the rainbow palace bowed as it walked past. The wererats walking the camp streets moved to the side and lowered their heads. Good, they¡¯re starting to recognize our authority. Reviled left the camp. We should head back to the tavern. We need to deal with our newest members.

    The eerie quiet of the sewers surrounded Reviled. However, the quiet was broken by the soft sounds of music. Reviled followed the music and peeked around the corner.

    ¡°Dammit! Why can¡¯t I get it?¡± Mina groaned.

    She was sitting on a stool with her rymujin between her legs. Empty bottles were lined up in front of her with a few laying on the ground. Mina sighed and started playing again. The wind started swirling round her and with a final note a blast of air shot forward but died before hitting the bottles.

    Mina stamped her feet, ¡°Dammit, dammit, dammit!¡±

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Mina jumped when Reviled came around the corner.

    ¡°Master,¡± Mina¡¯s face turned a deep red, ¡°I¡­I was t-trying to master air slash. But I¡­keep failing.¡±

    Reviled looked between Mina and the bottles, ¡°You can use that ability too?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Mina kept her head down, ¡°Onomori are known as skilled battlefield support. They can use their songs to strengthen allies or weaken enemies, not to mention their combat prowess.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re wanting to support us in combat,¡±

    Mina nodded, ¡°I¡­don¡¯t want to be a hindrance anymore,¡± she said, ¡°I want to be useful!¡±

    Reviled petted her head, ¡°Then why not ask your brother,¡± it said, ¡°Surely he can train you to use the ability?¡±

    ¡°Are¡­you sure,¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s the only one who can teach you,¡± Reviled said, ¡°And if he doesn¡¯t, then we¡¯ll order him to.¡±

    Mina embraced Reviled, ¡°Thank you.¡±Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    ¡°Come now, you have training to get back to.¡±

    <hr>

    Mina sat in the center of the training ground with her rymujin held tightly. Ten glass bottles sat on a plank twenty feet in front of her. Others were around engaged in their own training, but she was too focused on Kogna¡¯s words.

    ¡°The key to performing air slash is visualization,¡± Kogna said behind her, ¡°For example, I see the attack as an extension of my sword, so I focus the air pressure on the blade. You need to find an image that works for you.¡±

    Mina looked at her instrument and focused the air pressure on the strings. In her mind, she pictured the sound as a blade and plucked a note. A blade of air shot from the instrument, but it dissipated halfway to the bottles.

    ¡°Not strong enough,¡±

    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t know what to picture,¡± Mina said, ¡°I always try picturing a blade, but it doesn¡¯t work.¡±

    ¡°Stand up,¡± Mina stood setting her instrument to the side. Kogna drew his sword and placed it in her hands. It¡¯s heavier than I thought. ¡°Heavier than you expected isn¡¯t it,¡± Kogna voiced her thoughts. He guided her through several practice swings, ¡°That weight is a part of its power. When you pluck your strings, is it hard or easy?¡±

    ¡°Easy,¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the problem,¡± Kogna said, ¡°It should be hard to pluck the string since the accumulated air pressure should increase the weight. Sit down and try it again.¡±

    Mina sat down and picked up her instrument. She then drew upon the air around her causing the pressure to change and she focused it on the strings.

    ¡°You need to draw in more air,¡± Kogna said, ¡°And focus it on one string, not all of them.¡±

    Mina took a deep breath and pulled the air pressure around one string. She pulled it and noticed that it was a little heavier.

    ¡°More,¡±

    Mina pulled more air around her. Sweat started beading around her forehead, and her breathing quickened. The string vibrated under the air pressure, and her finger was starting to hurt.

    ¡°More,¡±

    Mina groaned as she placed a second finger on the string. It feels like I¡¯m trying to lift a sword. She breathed heavily through gritted teeth, but the string¡¯s weight caused it to slip from her fingers. A blade of air flew forward. It didn¡¯t cut anything, but it forcefully pushed the bottles off the plank and onto the floor.

    ¡°Better,¡± Kogna said with a small smile, ¡°But you¡¯ll need to work on your wrist and grip strength.¡± He gently patted her back.

    Mina nodded and went back to practicing. She didn¡¯t practice for long. Her wrists ached, and blisters were forming on the tips of her fingers. She wrapped bandages around her fingers after soaking them in cold water. I¡¯m not playing tonight. She picked up the rymujin and headed back to the tavern.

    The sewers weren¡¯t nearly as scary since Reviled and Skivret took complete control over them. Thankfully, the training camp they established wasn¡¯t far from the tavern either. Mina pulled out a brass key and entered the tavern¡¯s basement. Ada stood at the bar taking stock.

    ¡°Welcome back,¡± Ada said giving her a warm smile, ¡°How was training?¡±

    ¡°Tiring,¡±

    ¡°There should be food upstairs. Would you like me to grab some for you?¡±

    ¡°Yes please,¡± Mina followed Ada upstairs, ¡°How are you liking it here?¡±

    Ada¡¯s face went slightly pale, ¡°It¡¯s not the worst place I¡¯ve worked at,¡± she said with a nervous laugh, ¡°It¡¯s actually the best, but the b-master¡­¡±

    ¡°Can be intimidating,¡± Mina finished.

    ¡°How do you all get along with it?¡±

    Mina smiled, ¡°It took me a while,¡± she said, ¡°But from what I understand, the master sees us as extensions of himself. Therefore, he does everything in its power to make us satisfied.¡±

    ¡°But it¡¯s a monster,¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t deny that,¡± Mina laughed, ¡°But truthfully, I¡¯d rather have him as a master than Delilah. To me, she was the monster.¡±

    Ada nodded as they entered the dining hall. Oria¡¯s gang sat at the bar nursing mugs as they tore through a chicken that Yula brought out. Vaera and Teddy were bringing out produce from the pantry to prepare for that night. Teddy was hauling a sack of potatoes while Vaera carried a small basket of assorted vegetables. Ada chuckled as she watched her brother struggle under the weight.

    ¡°They look close,¡± Mina said with a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad he¡¯s stopped flirting with Oria,¡± Ada said, ¡°I was afraid that he¡¯d develop some strange obsession.¡± Teddy set the bag on the ground and slapped Vaera on the butt, which caused her to kick him hard between the legs, ¡°Unfortunately, boys don¡¯t learn decency when they grow up in a brothel.¡± Vaera stormed out of the kitchen as Teddy clawed at the ground.

    The door opened and five large men entered the tavern. They each carried a spiked mace and had a bull tattoo on their left shoulder.

    ¡°We¡¯re no open yet sirs,¡± Ada said with a tight smile, ¡°Please come again later.¡±

    One of the men stepped forward and destroyed a chair with his mace, ¡°That¡¯s a shame,¡± he said, ¡°From what I hear you aren¡¯t going to open for a long time.¡±

    The large bald man in Oria¡¯s gang rose from his stool, ¡°Dammit, why can¡¯t you just leave us alone?¡± he said cracking his knuckles, ¡°Rylie, get everyone out of here. We¡¯ll take care of them.¡±

    ¡°You sure Mak,¡±

    ¡°Do it Rylie,¡± the lanky Emmett smiled, ¡°Once we¡¯re done, we¡¯ll come get ya.¡±

    ¡°Downstairs everyone!¡± Rylie pulled Ada and Yula along.

    Mina followed them and stopped in the basement, ¡°Master!¡±

    Reviled¡¯s familiar appeared, ¡°What is it, Mina?¡±

    ¡°More of Samon¡¯s men are attacking!¡±

    ¡°Get out of there,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We¡¯ll contact Kogna and have him deal with them.¡±

    ¡°What about you?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re with Meridith and Oria. We¡¯re trying to secure another shipment from the Black Wolves. Just get out of there Mina, we can always rebuild after we¡¯ve dealt with Blackhammer.¡± Mina nodded and the familiar disappeared.

    The others had already fled to the sewers, but Mina stood there shaking. I¡­want to help. A scream came from upstairs. Mina tightened her grip on her instrument and ran back upstairs. She drew on as much air as she could and focused the pressure on a single string. She nearly lost focus when she entered the dining room.

    Oria¡¯s gang laid on the ground with Samon¡¯s men beating them with their weapons. One looked to have a terrible wound on his right temple. The others tried covering their heads.

    Mina used four fingers to pull back the string. An onomori¡¯s place is on the battlefield! She plucked the note and sent a blast of air. It struck against the attackers and sent them flying, but the attack didn¡¯t leave any physical damage. Blood seeped through her bandages and ran down her wrist, but Mina started playing an upbeat tone.

    ¡°Get up!¡± She called to the men on the floor.

    Her desire for them to rise fueled her playing. Pale purple light shined off the men on the floor and they slowly started to stir. Mina grunted in pain as she continued playing. Four of Samon¡¯s men were also starting to rise.

    ¡°My brother¡¯s coming,¡± Mina shouted to them, ¡°We just need to fend them off for a few minutes!¡±

    ¡°You heard her boys,¡± Mak said with a pained smile, ¡°Emmett, get Lyle outta the way. Zak keep the lady safe. The last thing we need is the boss to get mad because his girl got hurt.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m more afraid of her brother.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll keep enhancing you all,¡± Mina said changing to a sharp, fast tune. She could see the veins bulging in their necks.

    The men smiled as they rushed forward. Mak grabbed a chair and slammed it down on one of the men. It broke apart, but Mak continued slamming the broken pieces into his opponent. The fifth member of Oria¡¯s gang, Dobe, kicked a second thug hard in the face. One of Samon¡¯s thugs rose to his feet and struck Dobe against the head and threw him to the side. Emmett joined in and stabbed the thug with the fireplace poker.

    The battle was chaotic. Mak and Emmett fought hard against the three remaining thugs, but one of the thugs threw a chair towards Mina. She dove out of the way, and for that moment, they lost all momentum. Mak and Emmett fell from exhaustion, and Zak tried to fight them off with a kitchen knife, but he couldn¡¯t get close enough. The two of them were pushed to the back of the tavern by the two remaining thugs, but Zak was taken out with a strike to his side. Mina found herself pinned against the wall.

    ¡°You¡¯re the whore that started this all aren¡¯t you? I certain the boss would be happy if we took you back.¡±

    Mina steeled herself, ¡°No!¡± she kicked him hard between the legs.

    The thug fell to his knees, and Mina dashed to the side getting out of reach of the other one. There was only one thug left. Mina was breathing heavily, and her right hand wouldn¡¯t move properly. I can¡¯t play like this.

    ¡°The master told you to run,¡±

    Mina relaxed when her brother walked up the steps. The last thug tried to strike Kogna, but he was quickly cut down. Kogna looked around and released a heavy sigh.

    ¡°You could have been hurt,¡± he said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you run?¡±

    ¡°Because¡­I wanted to help,¡± Mina said staring him down, ¡°I¡¯m tired of being a burden.¡±

    Kogna noticed her bleeding hand and wrapped it up, ¡°You¡¯re not a burden,¡± he said, ¡°But you should know your limits. That¡¯s why it¡¯s important to listen to the master and myself.¡±

    ¡°But¡­they would have died,¡± Oria¡¯s gang members groaned on the floor.

    ¡°Well, they¡¯re alive because of you,¡± Kogna said with a small smile, ¡°I¡¯ll make sure they thank their onomori properly.¡±

    Tears ran down Mina¡¯s face, but that didn¡¯t stop her from giving him the largest smile he had ever seen.

 A Grave Mistake

    Baron sat at the bar of a small tavern. It was empty due to it being the middle of the day. His father sat next to him tapping his fingers against the bar. A door opened and Andron stepped out from the back.

    ¡°What took you so long?¡± Bartholomew said.

    ¡°Sorry sire,¡± Andron said leaning against the bar, ¡°I was gathering some more information on the Legion.¡±

    ¡°How is Samon doing?¡±

    Andron shook his head, ¡°Not well,¡± he said, ¡°He¡¯s pretty much lost control of the slums, and the Legion¡¯s filled the void.¡±

    ¡°Have you not been helping him!¡± Bartholomew glared at his spymaster.

    ¡°He defied your orders,¡± Andron said with a bow, ¡°By the time he accepted my help, it was too late.¡± He gave Bartholomew a look, ¡°You¡¯ve met with the leader, is there anything you can tell me about him.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s a monster, that¡¯s all you need to know.¡±

    Andron glared then turned to Baron, ¡°When were you going to tell me about the guild girl?¡±

    ¡°You met her,¡± Baron said with a lazy smile, ¡°She¡¯s attractive isn¡¯t she,¡± They both glared at him, ¡°I didn¡¯t think she would be that useful.¡± He sighed.

    ¡°Dammit Baron!¡± Bartholomew said slamming his fist onto the bar, ¡°I¡¯m tired of you playing these damn games. Get out!¡± Baron scoffed as he slid off the stool and left the empty tavern. Taela followed closely behind him.

    Baron walked down the streets of the middle city. He knew he stood out with his fine clothes, but at least he wouldn¡¯t be accosted here, unlike the lower city. The citizens gave him plenty of space, and a few even greeted him jovially. Baron responded in kind with a warm smile and charming greeting. He especially enjoyed giving them to the beautiful women which caused them to blush and giggle.

    Foolish old man is losing his touch. Baron bought an apple from a stand and ate it as he walked. He¡¯s so focused on putting out fires he doesn¡¯t see the noose around his neck. We need to deal with it now.

    ¡°Any ideas on how to deal with our friend?¡± Baron looked over his shoulder at Taela.

    ¡°Could we not get him to oust himself?¡± Taela said.

    ¡°Interesting idea,¡± Baron said, ¡°The question is how.¡±

    Trumpets sounded through the streets and the citizens were gathered to the side of the main road. Cheers erupted as soldiers marched down the street with the Duke¡¯s banners flying overhead. The commander rode a pristine white horse and waved to the adoring citizens. His silver armor glistened in the sunlight and his golden hair flowed in the soft breeze. His piercing blue eyes landed on Baron, and he gave him a salute which Baron returned.

    ¡°Maelon¡¯s back,¡± Baron said watching the knight ride away.

    ¡°The Duke will be pleased that his son is safe,¡± Taela said, ¡°Perhaps he could help us.¡±

    ¡°We should give him a few days to recover,¡± Baron said, ¡°I¡¯m certain he¡¯s exhausted after fighting in the north for the last three years.¡±

    Baron walked through the halls of Castle Jericho. The attendant led him through the inner halls where normal petitioners weren¡¯t allowed. He was led to a set of gilded double doors, and he could hear voices from the other side.

    ¡°Please sir, we must do something,¡± Baron recognized Halligan¡¯s voice, ¡°People will continue to die if we don¡¯t do something about the monster!¡±

    ¡°From what I understand, Solomon¡¯s already dealt with it,¡± Maelon¡¯s voice followed, ¡°The Tome of Elithis was taken to the Grand Cathedral, and so long as it¡¯s there, this monster won¡¯t get its hands on it. Right now, the Wight King is the more imminent threat that we need to focus on. Now please leave master Halligan.¡±

    Baron stepped to the side as Halligan stormed out, ¡°Sorry, master Baron,¡± Halligan said with a bow.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry my friend,¡± Baron slapped Halligan¡¯s shoulder. Baron stepped into Maelon¡¯s common room and smiled at the man resting on the sofa, ¡°That sounded like a terrible argument.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing to worry about,¡± Maelon said standing up and pouring himself a glass, ¡°He¡¯s trying to live up to his ¡®hero¡¯ title.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure,¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Maelon scoffed, ¡°He¡¯s stuck here being a nanny to my sister, while the true heroes are fighting the Wight King. It only makes sense to cause a panic about this ¡®monster.¡¯¡±

    Baron frowned as his friend finished his drink, ¡°You don¡¯t think it exists?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Maelon shrugged, ¡°But from Halligan¡¯s own account, the monster was gravely wounded by Solomon when they were fighting over the¡­something,¡± he cleared his throat, ¡°However, Solomon prevailed, and the monster fled. I say, we wait until Solomon defeats the Wight King then have him come here to finish the monster. We must prioritize the greater threat.¡±

    ¡°True, true,¡±

    Maelon groaned, ¡°Enough of this talk of monster,¡± he said, ¡°It¡¯s been nearly three years since we¡¯ve seen each other. How have you been, and more importantly, how¡¯s Taela?¡±

    ¡°Things could be better,¡± Baron sighed, ¡°The old man¡¯s being a fool with this new business rival. Which is causing more issues for me, and poor Taela¡¯s being dragged into it.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re awful,¡± Maelon said with a smirk, ¡°I should storm your mansion and whisk her away.¡±

    Baron smiled back, ¡°Then we¡¯d have to cross swords,¡± he said, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t let her go for anything.¡±

    ¡°A tale as old as time,¡± Maelon towered over Baron, ¡°Two men fighting to the death for a woman.¡±

    ¡°If it¡¯s a woman you¡¯re looking for, then perhaps I should introduce you to one I recently met.¡±

    <hr>

    Meridith sat at the bar sipping from a small crystal glass. Ada and the prostitutes lazily cleaned up the empty tavern. A few patrons visited but they left after acquiring their evening buzz, and now it was completely empty.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s safe to say that we¡¯re done for tonight,¡± Meridith said giving them a smile.

    ¡°Why isn¡¯t anyone showing up,¡± Vaera said sighing at the empty bar.

    ¡°We mainly cater to adventurers,¡± Meridith patted her head, ¡°They don¡¯t have the most stable income, so they¡¯re either out of money or trying to get more.¡± She turned to the women, ¡°You all can take the night off early if you want.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, ma¡¯am,¡± the prostitutes bowed and disappeared in the back.

    ¡°Are you sure,¡± Ada said sitting next to her, ¡°I¡¯m willing to stay since everyone else is out.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine Ada,¡± Meridith patted her shoulder, ¡°Go and take care of your brother.¡± Ada nodded and disappeared into the back.

    Mina appeared from the basement and sat next to her, ¡°I don¡¯t like this,¡± she said.

    ¡°They¡¯ll be fine,¡± Meridith said hugging her, ¡°Kogna, Oria, and her crew will be fine, and besides, we need to find more ways to bring in extra money.¡±

    ¡°Is that why the master is smuggling those goods in?¡±

    Meridith nodded, ¡°Of course, and Skivret is having his soldiers harass Samon¡¯s men. We have nothing to worry about tonight.¡± The bell to the front door rang, ¡°Welcome!¡± Meridith¡¯s smile faltered.

    ¡°So, this is the new tavern?¡± a tall blonde-haired man nodded in approval as he stepped inside. His entourage filed in after, but Meridith¡¯s glare fell to the man next to him.

    ¡°Yes, it is,¡± Baron said smiling at her, ¡°What do you think Maelon?¡±

    Meridith broke out into a cold sweat, but she forced a smile to her face, ¡°Your grace!¡± she said, approaching them with a curtsy. She gestured for everyone else to follow, ¡°It¡¯s an honor to have you here in our humble establishment. How may we be of service to you?¡±Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.

    ¡°My friend here recommended I visit your fine tavern,¡± Maelon said giving her a charming smile, ¡°I hope that isn¡¯t an inconvenience.¡±

    ¡°You are never an inconvenience, your grace,¡± Meridith smiled, ¡°Please sit anywhere you want,¡± she clapped her hands, ¡°Mina, gather your rymujin and play something for our honored guests. Yula, Vaera, please bring out the finest food we have. And what would you like to drink, your grace?¡±

    ¡°The finest wine for my friend and I,¡± Maelon said, ¡°And beer for my men.¡±

    ¡°I shall tend to it right away,¡± Meridith curtsied again.

    Meridith quickly went to the bar and fetched the finest bottle of wine from the rack. She kept an eye on the group as she gathered the other drinks. Maelon and his guards eagerly eyed Mina when she sat down next to them. One of the guards even grabbed Yula by the ass as she dropped off a plate with a roasted chicken. Yula responded with a broken smile, but she continued to go about her work diligently. Vaera stood at the kitchen entrance but was quickly ushered back by her mother.

    Despite being nobility, the Duke¡¯s son wasn¡¯t as honorable as he should have been. Maelon was loud, crass, and obnoxiously rude. He would join in with his men as they harassed the women, and he was just as handsy.

    Mina stood and bowed after finishing her sixth song, ¡°Excuse me your grace,¡± she said, ¡°But my throat is parched and I need a drink.¡±

    Maelon grabbed her and forced to her sit on his lap, ¡°Then why not drink this,¡± he said pushing his glass in her face. Baron and the guards started laughing.

    ¡°Please your grace, be gentle with her,¡± Meridith said pulling Mina off, ¡°She¡¯s a valuable member of our staff, and it would be a shame if she got hurt.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about,¡± Maelon said, ¡°If anything happens, I¡¯ll see to it personally.¡± He pulled out a bag that spilled golden coins onto the table.

    ¡°Be that as it may,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I take the wellbeing of my staff personally, so please treat them gently.¡±

    Maelon leered at her and smiled, ¡°I understand,¡±

    The night continued, and the drinks continued to flow. The guards became more aggressive with Yula as she served them, and they started getting out of control. Vaera cowered in the corner which caught their attention.

    One of the guards approached her, ¡°What are you doing over here sweetie,¡± he said swaying on his feet, ¡°Come join us,¡±

    Vaera shook her head furious and tried to walk around him. The guard growled in anger and grabbed her by the hair. Vaera screamed in pain and Yula ran over.

    ¡°Please sir, she¡¯s just a child,¡±

    ¡°Shut up!¡± the guard smacked Yula.

    ¡°Yula, Vaera,¡± Meridith called to them, ¡°We¡¯re running low on drinks. Could you go downstairs and grab a few more bottles with Mina,¡± she leaned over and whispered in Mina¡¯s ear, ¡°Escape into the sewers and let the master know about this.¡±

    ¡°What about you,¡± Mina looked between her and the men.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Meridith pushed her towards the stairs. She waited for them to disappear before turning back to the men, ¡°I hope you men are fine with me entertaining you.¡±

    Maelon pulled her close and gave her a deep kiss, ¡°My dear, we¡¯re thrilled to have you entertain us,¡± he said which caused his men to cheer. Meridith screamed as Maelon picked her up and carried her up the stairs. She tried to fight back but he overpowered her. ¡°Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves shall we.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled pulled the cloak tight as it watched the skeletons pick up the seven crates and carried them down the tunnel. Oria and her gang were on watch, but no one was around. Erban counted out the gold coins from the large purse.

    ¡°It¡¯s all here,¡± Erban said with a smile, ¡°A pleasure doing business with you.¡±

    ¡°Likewise,¡± Reviled nodded and turned down the tunnel. Kogna followed close behind.

    They turned the first corner. Master!

    ¡°What is it Mina?¡± Reviled stopped everyone.

    ¡°Meridith¡¯s in trouble,¡± Mina said frantically, ¡°Some men came into the tavern and made a ruckus, then she told us to flee into the sewers. We¡¯re at the old camp but Meridith is alone. You need to help her!¡±

    Reviled growled, ¡°Oria, get the crates to the drop point. Kogna, head to Skivret¡¯s old camp and check on Mina!¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Oria said with a worried frown.

    ¡°Do it now!¡± Reviled charged down the tunnel on all fours.

    Reviled jumped over the water canal and turned down another tunnel. Its speed was great, but the maze-like structure of the sewers made traversal timely, even if the tavern wasn¡¯t that far. With each second, worry and anger pulsed from Laegyn¡¯s and Jal¡¯s souls. Their emotions fueling Reviled¡¯s drive. Finally, the steel door to the tavern came into sight.

    Reviled burst through the door, and stormed upstairs. Tables and chairs were wildly scattered throughout the hall. Mugs and bottles littered the floor, and the walls were stained with alcohol. Something crashed upstairs and Reviled bounded upstairs. All but one door was closed on the second floor. Reviled approached the open door and heard whimpering from the other side. It pushed into the room. The sight brought a growl from Reviled.

    The single bed sat lopsided with the mattress hanging off the frame. A torn black dress sat crumpled in the corner with another small piece of clothing balled up by the bed. The messed-up sheets moved across the bed and disappeared on the other side of the bed, but that was where the crying came from.

    ¡°Meridith,¡± Reviled slowly crossed the room and peeked around the bed.

    Meridith lay on the floor with the sheets wrapped around her. Her face was hidden, but Reviled could see the tear stains on the sheets covering her head. It slowly reached out, but Meridith flinched from its approach.

    Meridith peeked out from the sheets, ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry¡­master,¡± she said. She pressed her hand against the floor, but she didn¡¯t make any attempt to sit up.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Reviled kneeled next to her, ¡°Let us help you up,¡± Meridith simply nodded as Reviled gently sat Meridith up, ¡°Who did this to you?¡±

    ¡°It was¡­the Duke¡¯s son,¡± Meridith said with quivering lips, ¡°Baron brought him here.¡± The tears streamed down her cheeks again. Anger flashed through Reviled¡¯s core, but it suppressed the emotion, ¡°Are Mina and the others safe?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled brushed the hair out of her face, ¡°They¡¯re safe. Mina contacted us as soon as she could.¡±

    Meridith nodded, and soon, she broke down again. Her cries echoed through the room. She pulled at the sheets to wipe her face and exposed the many bruises lining her thighs. Reviled held her close.

    ¡°We will make this right,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Sleep.¡±

    Meridith¡¯s cries quieted down, and her erratic breathing became shallow. She needed rest, and this was the only thing Reviled could think of giving to her. Gently, it picked her up and carried her to another room, one that wouldn¡¯t illicit terrible memories. After tucking her into bed, Reviled went downstairs to find everyone gathered.

    ¡°How is lady Meridith?¡± Mina cried approaching the stairs.

    ¡°Asleep,¡± Reviled patted her head, ¡°Right now, she needs rest¡­and time.¡±

    ¡°I-I shouldn¡¯t have left,¡±

    ¡°Do not say such things,¡± Reviled growled, ¡°She made a sacrifice, now honor it by supporting her now. Besides, we¡¯re glad you are safe,¡± it turned to Yula and Vaera, ¡°That all of you are safe.¡±

    ¡°Are we going hunting,¡± Kogna¡¯s voice came out cold and sharp. A fire burned in his eyes.

    ¡°Not you,¡± Reviled growled, ¡°You are to stay here and protect everyone. Do not hold back, understand.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡±

    ¡°Inform Oria of the situation when she returns,¡± Reviled headed to the stairs, ¡°For the time being, the tavern shall remain closed until we deem it worthy to open. Till then, your safety is the greatest concern. Flee the building if it comes to it. Your lives are worth more than brick and wood.¡±

    They all bowed, ¡°Yes master.¡±

    Reviled headed down into the sewers, ¡°Wait for me!¡± Capcap cried following him.

    A growl escaped from Reviled. The last thing it wanted was to deal with the mushroom, but thankfully, she remained quiet as she followed along on top of Antwuan. Its claws scratched at the stone walkways, and the dripping of water echoed. The sewers that once protected Reviled now mocked it.

    ¡°We made a mistake,¡±

    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t,¡± Cappy said, ¡°Pretty Lady will be fine after a good nap.¡±

    Reviled roared and kicked at the mushroom and ant. The two went flying and landed hard onto the stone floor. Antwuan hissed in anger and pain and stood between Reviled and Cappy.

    ¡°Do you not understand what happened you foolish, imbecilic fungus!¡± Anger from Jal¡¯s and Laegyn¡¯s souls seared through Reviled¡¯s core. It wasn¡¯t used to this level of intensity, which was made worse by the emotional resonance from the other souls. ¡°What they did to her won¡¯t be solved by a fucking nap,¡± Reviled kicked the ant out of the way and picked up Cappy by her neck, ¡°For once in your filthy life, think.¡± It claws dug into her neck.

    Cappy¡¯s eyes grew big, ¡°It won¡¯t?¡±

    ¡°No,¡±

    Tears started streaming down Cappy¡¯s face, ¡°You¡¯ll fix it right,¡± she said, ¡°Come on Big Meanie fix it! You¡¯re smart¡­right.¡±

    She¡¯s right. Slowly, Reviled extinguished the anger from the other souls, but it left Jal and Laegyn to simmer. We must think this through, then we can unleash your rage. Reviled dropped Cappy.

    ¡°Return to the tavern,¡± Reviled said turning away, ¡°See to it that Meridith sleeps soundly while we¡¯re away.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡±

    Reviled waiting until the patter from their footsteps disappeared, then it drew upon all the energy it could muster from its magic core. Thick pools of shadow coalesced around Reviled, and it slowly took on the form of thousands of rats. The familiars squeaked and stared at their master nervously.

    ¡°Go. Scour the city,¡± Reviled growl, ¡°Find us Baron Decker!¡± Its roar caused the rats to flee in haste.

    <hr>

    Baron yawned as he stared up at Taela. Of all the things that could have happened, he wasn¡¯t expecting that. A chuckled rose from his lips which caught Taela¡¯s attention.

    ¡°Are you certain it was wise to allow his grace to violate that woman,¡± Taela said looking down at her master as he laid on her lap.

    ¡°What¡¯s the monster going to do,¡± Baron said, ¡°Maelon is practically untouchable, and if it does go after him, then Maelon will fight back.¡±

    ¡°But what if it comes after us,¡±

    ¡°It was already coming after us,¡± he laughed, ¡°Hopefully this will distract it for a bit.¡±

    Taela looked at the clock, then gently slapped Baron¡¯s head, ¡°You¡¯d better get to sleep, you have an early morning,¡±

    ¡°Fine,¡± Baron rose then gave her a quick peck on the lips, ¡°Would you like to join me?¡±

    Taela leaned in for another kiss, ¡°Get to bed,¡±

    Baron chuckled and disappeared into his bedroom. Taela quickly cleaned up, but stopped when she noticed a black rat sitting on the windowsill. Before she could do anything, it jumped into the bushes. Filthy rodents. Taela quietly left Baron¡¯s common room and wandered through the empty halls. Despite it being late, she still had one last thing to do.

    She stepped out into the cool night air and simply wandered through the Decker¡¯s modest garden. She preferred to end her day with a quiet stroll right before bed to clear her mind, and she needed to clear it tonight. Tonight was chaotic, and now the threat the monster possessed would most likely increase. It wouldn¡¯t take an attack on one of its subordinates lightly, and she feared what might happen in the coming days.

    Taela stopped and admired the single fountain in the Decker¡¯s garden. She ran her fingers through the water. A small smile came to her lips, and she could feel the tension in her shoulders ebbing away. With a deep sigh, she turned back towards the main house, but stopped as a few dozen black rats stood in her way. The rodents sat on their hindquarters staring at her, their beady red eyes radiating malice. Taela slowly walked around the fountain to the other path but found more rats waiting for her. Slowly, the rats started to approach.

    Taela backed away trying to keep the two packs in sight, but she ran into something hard. She turned and stared up into two crimson eyes. Taela tried to scream, but the monster grabbed her by the face, and her screams came out muffled. She stared in horror as the monster¡¯s lower jaw opened and its long-bladed tongue slithered to cut her cheek.

    ¡°You¡¯re coming with us.¡±

 Blood For Blood

    Baron sighed deeply as he rubbed his face. Sunlight bathed his chest, and birdsongs gently called him to consciousness. He sat up while stretching and looked out the window.

    ¡°Did you sleep well?¡± Baron turned to the maid attending him. Her voluptuous blonde hair shined golden in the light, and her simple black uniform dress accentuated her lovely figure.

    ¡°I sleep well Charolette, but it seems like I overslept,¡± Baron said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t Taela wake me?¡±

    ¡°Forgive me master Baron, but Taela had to tend to mistress Reina,¡± Charolette curtsied, ¡°She left a note asking me to attend to you in her stead.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Baron smiled as his gaze linger over her bosom, ¡°Then I¡¯m in your care.¡±

    Charolette gave him a sly smile, ¡°I¡¯ll do my best,¡± she pulled him out of the bed and started undressing him, ¡°You have several appointments today, so you need to get dressed.¡±

    ¡°I think I need a bath first,¡± Baron let his hand rest on her ass.

    Charolette gave him a hooded stare. Her hand reached between his legs, and she squeezed hard which caused Baron to groan in pain.

    ¡°There¡¯s no time,¡± Baron took a deep breath when she released him.

    ¡°Taela trained you well,¡± Baron cleared his throat.

    Charolette sauntered to his closet and pulled out one of his suits. She dressed him in a loose tan shirt which she tucked into black silk pants. Charolette buttoned up his crimson vest and clipped on a golden chain which adorned the front. She dusted off the black jacket before putting it on him.

    ¡°You look as dapper as always sir,¡± Charolette kissed the back of his neck.

    ¡°Come now Charolette,¡± Baron chuckled wiping away the kiss, ¡°I¡¯m visiting my little mouse today. I don¡¯t want to make her jealous.¡±

    ¡°And what about me?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯ll have me all to yourself while Taela¡¯s away,¡± Baron slipped his hand under her skirt, ¡°Why don¡¯t you tend to me tonight.¡± He gave her a deep kiss. When he pulled back, he noticed a black rat sitting on the window.

    Charolette pulled him down for another kiss. ¡°I¡¯ll keep you to that,¡±

    Baron chuckled as he wiped his lips, ¡°Can you get the wagon ready.¡±

    Baron sauntered through the halls of castle Jericho. He came to Maelon¡¯s common room door. A maid stepped out, adjusted her dress, and curtsied to him before heading down the hall. Baron chuckled as he knocked on the door.

    ¡°Come in,¡± Maelon was laying on the sofa in plush robes, ¡°Morning Baron,¡± he said sipping on his tea.

    ¡°Good morning,¡± Baron smiled as she sat across from him, ¡°Did you sleep well?¡±

    ¡°Quite well,¡± Maelon chuckled, ¡°I quite enjoyed myself with that lovely lady last night. Give my compliments to her master when you see him next.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll try,¡± Baron said, ¡°We don¡¯t see each other much.¡±

    ¡°Is there anything else you need?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see a cute little mouse,¡± Baron smiled, ¡°But I wanted to check in since I was here.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate that,¡± Maelon smiled, ¡°I look forward to our next outing.¡±

    Baron waved goodbye and left the room. He wandered through the halls until he came to the library. The little librarian stood behind her desk sifting through books. Baron snuck behind her and wrapped his arms around her, which caused her to squeak in surprise.

    ¡°Baron!¡± she panted, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±

    ¡°I came to see you, Ema,¡± Baron whispered into her ear. ¡°Or are you not excited to see me?¡±

    ¡°I am,¡± Baron smiled as she squirmed in his embrace, ¡°I just wasn¡¯t expecting to see you.¡±

    ¡°I thought you might be missing me,¡± Baron kissed the top of her head, ¡°Do you want to have dinner tonight?"

    ¡°I¡¯d love to,¡± Ema leaned against him.

    ¡°Then I¡¯ll come get you tonight,¡±

    Ema chuckled, but it turned into a scream as she stared at one of the bookshelves. A black rat sat on the top shelf staring down at them. Is that the same one from this morning? It disappeared into the rafters.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have cats?¡± Baron said petting her.

    ¡°We do, but I keep them out since they tend to destroy the books.¡±

    ¡°Maybe you should rethink that.¡±

    ¡°I guess so,¡± Ema sighed and turned in his grasp, ¡°I¡¯ll see you tonight then.¡± She leaned up and gave him a gentle kiss.

    Baron couldn¡¯t help himself. He picked her up and set her onto the desk as he deepened this kiss. ¡°I don¡¯t think I can wait until tonight.¡±

    <hr>

    Baron adjusted the tie around his neck and centered the corsage in his jacket. Ema sat beside him in a silk blue dress with wide sleeves. Their fingers intertwined as the carriage slowly rocked down the streets. Baron couldn¡¯t help but stare at the simple beauty next to him.

    ¡°You¡¯re going to make me blush,¡± Ema said covering her cheeks.

    ¡°Seems you¡¯re already blushing,¡± Baron kissed her hand, ¡°And I quite enjoy it.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re terrible,¡±

    The carriage came to a halt, and the footman opened the door for them. Baron escorted Ema out of the carriage and into the high-end restaurant. The server led them to a table in a quiet corner to themselves.

    ¡°How have things been for you,¡± Baron sipped his wine.

    ¡°The same as usual,¡± Ema said, ¡°Except sir Halligan¡¯s been spending a lot of time in the library.¡±

    ¡°Why,¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s been looking for maps of the sewers,¡± Ema took a bit from her food, ¡°I think he¡¯s preparing an expedition down there. He keeps bringing up some monster. I hope he succeeds so we can be rid of the wererat king.¡±

    ¡°Is he planning on doing this himself?¡± Baron said.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Ema shrugged, ¡°What I do know is that no one else is taking this ¡®monster¡¯ seriously. From our talks, he wants to hunt it down quickly so he can meet back up with Solomon since it sounds like he needs help.¡±The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±

    Ema quickly looked around then leaned towards him, ¡°Reports are coming in from Fortress Delmiere. The Wight King¡¯s forces are constantly attacking it, so Solomon is unable to start his journey to the Wight King¡¯s castle.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Baron stroked his chin. If Delmiere falls, then the Wight King will have access to the rest of the continent. ¡°Are things getting that desperate?¡±

    ¡°It sounds like it,¡± Ema frowned, ¡°Sir Maelon stated that several kingdoms recalled their forces before the undead attacked. Now they¡¯re relying on the church¡¯s paladins and adventurers to supplement their losses.¡±

    ¡°When will the Duke reinforce Delmiere?¡±

    ¡°The Duke¡¯s second son will be taking reinforcements at the end of the month.¡±

    ¡°Phineas is taking charge?¡± Baron said in confusion, ¡°But Maelon is the superior commander. He must be worried about his son.¡±

    ¡°Maelon is the Duke¡¯s heir,¡±

    They finished eating and headed back to the carriage. Ema snuggled up to Baron as they rode back to her house. The carriage¡¯s rocking threatened to put them to sleep.

    ¡°Are you certain you don¡¯t want to stay the night?¡± Ema smiled into his chest.

    ¡°I¡¯d love to, but I need to be up early tomorrow,¡± Baron stroked her thigh, ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± She leaned up to kiss him. The carriage came to a stop, ¡°Goodnight,¡± she said climbing out.

    ¡°Good night,¡±

    A few days later, Baron walked around his brewery checking on his inventory. The wagons had returned from their morning deliveries, and the other workers were moving around the barrels to prepare for tomorrow. The next batch of mead was being made alongside the wine and beer and it left a wonderful aroma in the air.

    Taela still hasn¡¯t returned. Baron signed some documents as the new batch of resources came in. I should check in with Reina after this.

    ¡°Pardon me, master Decker,¡± Baron turned to see Charolette leading two guards to him, ¡°These men need to talk with you.¡±

    ¡°What about?¡± Baron gave them a polite smile.

    ¡°Do you know Ema who works in the archives?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know her,¡± Baron¡¯s smile turned to a frown, ¡°Did something happen to her?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s¡­gone missing,¡± Baron dropped his papers in shock, ¡°She didn¡¯t report for duty today, and when we went to check on her, we found her house broken into.¡±

    ¡°Do you mind telling us what your relationship with her was?¡± the other guard said.

    ¡°I was courting her,¡± Baron said, ¡°We were out the other night.¡±

    ¡°And she made it home safely?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± the guards nodded to each other, ¡°We¡¯re sorry to bring you this news. If you can think of anything, please come to the castle.¡±

    Charolette placed a hand on his shoulder, ¡°Is there anything I can do for you?¡±

    ¡°Get my carriage ready,¡± Baron clenched his fist, ¡°I need to go get Taela.¡±

    Charolette nodded and left. By the end of the hour, Baron stormed into Reina¡¯s brothel. A few of the prostitutes stepped out of the bar and looked at him in surprise.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Taela!¡± Baron stared daggers at the girls.

    ¡°She¡¯s not here sir,¡± the older bartender said, ¡°She hasn¡¯t been here in months.¡±

    ¡°That can¡¯t be,¡± Baron slammed his fist onto the podium, ¡°She left a note saying that she was needed here.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Reina stood at the top of the stairs.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for Taela,¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s not here,¡± Reina tapped her chin, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen her since I last spoke with your father.¡±

    ¡°That can¡¯t be. She left a note saying you needed her,¡± Sweat started beading down his face.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t summon her. When did she leave this note?¡± Reina started to look worried.

    ¡°A few days ago, after¡­oh gods,¡± Baron charged out of the brothel and back into the carriage, ¡°Take me back to the house, now!¡±

    The carriage jerked forward as it raced down the street. The cries of the people outside were dull to him, and Baron held onto the sides as it took a corner. The carriage screeched to a halt, and Baron ran back into his house. The servants stared at him as he ran up the stairs and down the halls to his father¡¯s office.

    Baron slammed the doors open, ¡°We need to talk!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t have time son,¡± Bartholomew said looking over the documents on his desk, ¡°It can wait until tonight.¡±

    ¡°It can¡¯t wait until tonight,¡± Baron said leaning against the desk, ¡°It¡¯s about the monster.¡±

    Bartholomew set his pen down and looked up at him, ¡°What about it?¡±

    ¡°I think it¡¯s kidnapped Taela,¡± Baron said.

    ¡°Why do you say that?¡± Baron told him what happened, ¡°Damn,¡± Bartholomew tapped his fingers on the desk.

    ¡°What do we do?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll send some men to check out this tavern,¡± Bartholomew took a deep breath, ¡°We need to be careful about this.¡±

    ¡°We need to save Taela now!¡±

    ¡°Chances are Taela isn¡¯t there,¡± Bartholomew growled at him, ¡°Because of you, the monster will be on watch. If we act too hasty then Taela dies.¡±

    ¡°But,¡±

    ¡°You fucked up,¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°Now I have to clean up your mess. Get out.¡±

    Baron glared at his father and stormed out of the office and to his room. He slammed the doors closed. Screaming, Baron picked up a chair and threw it against the wall, then kicked the sitting room table onto its side. Not even the pillows adorning the sofa were safe from his fury. With heavy breaths, he stared at the carnage. Laughing sounded from behind him, and it sent a shiver down his spine. Baron turned to find a black rat staring at him.

    ¡°You seem upset,¡± the monster¡¯s chuckle came through the rat.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Taela?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s with us,¡± the monster said, ¡°We expected you to notice sooner.¡±

    ¡°Give her and Ema back now!¡±

    ¡°If you want them, then come get them.¡±

    <hr>

    Baron stared at the run-down warehouse. The monster said it¡¯d bring them here after sundown, and that all he needed to do was come get them. He wasn¡¯t stupid enough to fully believe that, but he didn¡¯t have much of a choice. His father was still furious with him, and he could only get the five men behind him to join. They had their weapons ready, and Baron pushed his way into the warehouse.

    The darkness was thick in the warehouse with the only light coming from the open door. They kept an eye out, but it was difficult to see anything in the surrounding darkness. Darkness enveloped them as the door slammed shut. Mechanical grinding echoed around them, and a small speck of light from a single candle illuminated the two women in front of them. Ema and Taela stared at him in terror. Baron wanted to approach, but the fact that they weren¡¯t bound disturbed him.

    ¡°I know you¡¯re here,¡± Baron shouted into the darkness, ¡°Show yourself monster!¡±

    ¡°Why should we?¡± the monster¡¯s voice rang unnaturally, ¡°We kept our end of the bargain, but you¡­you were supposed to come alone.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not that foolish,¡±

    ¡°We beg to differ,¡±

    Metal clattered behind him, but Baron couldn¡¯t turn around. His body wouldn¡¯t move no matter how much he tried to. The men behind him screamed in agonizing pain. Baron couldn¡¯t help but whimper as he heard the tearing of flesh, and the death groans of his men. There was enough light to see the tears streaming down Ema¡¯s face.

    ¡°Thank you for the meal,¡± the monster stepped out from behind him with blood dripping down its face. ¡°Let¡¯s have a talk shall we.¡± The monster waved it¡¯s hand, and Baron could finally move.

    ¡°I want my girls back,¡± Baron said, cursing himself for the quiver in his voice.

    ¡°Which one,¡±

    Baron straightened his suit, hoping to muster some semblance of authority, ¡°Both,¡±

    ¡°No,¡± The monster growled as it approached the two women, ¡°We¡­require payment for the crimes you committed against Meridith.¡± It stepped behind them, it¡¯s claws gently sliding against their throats.

    ¡°This¡­isn¡¯t a negotiation,¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, we aren¡¯t negotiating,¡± the monster chuckled, ¡°You have no authority here Decker. If we wanted to, we could easily kill the three of you and be done with, but there is another that would escape punishment.¡±

    ¡°Maelon,¡± Baron stared at the monster with wide eyes.

    ¡°Exactly,¡± the monster growled as its mouth opened, ¡°We want the one who violated Meridith. You do that, then we¡¯ll give you back your girl.¡±

    ¡°Girl?¡±

    ¡°You need to be punished as well,¡± it chuckled as it pulled both women close, ¡°So tell us, which one is more precious to you. The whore, or the librarian.¡± Both women stared at him with fear and hope, and he shook his head unable to answer, ¡°Choose, or we¡¯ll take both.¡± The monster¡¯s tongue slithered out caressing both of their cheeks.

    Baron looked to both women, and he turned away closing his eyes, ¡°Taela,¡± he heard Ema cry, but it didn¡¯t last long. He looked up and saw her body lying on the ground, ¡°Now give her back.¡±

    ¡°Not yet,¡± the monster said pulling down her dress to reveal a mark around her neck. It suddenly glowed revealing a magic circle, ¡°We¡¯ll hold onto her until you bring us Maelon.¡±

    ¡°You used compulsion magic on her!¡± Baron sneered, ¡°You don¡¯t need to hold onto her.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± the monster¡¯s condescending snicker made Baron shiver, ¡°But we don¡¯t trust you to uphold your end. In fact,¡± Baron gasped as the monster suddenly stood before him and lifted him off the ground by his neck, ¡°Let¡¯s fix that.¡±

    Pain burned through Baron¡¯s body, but the monster¡¯s tight grip made it difficult to scream. Tears ran down his face. It made it difficult to see Taela standing across from him, but he could hear her crying. Finally, the pain stopped, and the monster dropped him. A strange feeling, like a haze over his mind, came upon him, and he was very aware of the monster¡¯s hatred towards him.

    ¡°You are to tell no one of our meeting, nor give any hints, understand,¡±

    Magic seared through his veins forcing him to nod, ¡°I¡­understand,¡±

    ¡°Good, we shall remove the spell after you¡¯ve brought us Maelon,¡± the monster chuckled, ¡°Don¡¯t take too long,¡± It turned away, ¡°Come Taela, and by the way,¡± pain shot through Baron¡¯s hand and he glared at the rat standing next to him, ¡°Use our familiar to contact us when you¡¯re ready.¡±

    Baron watched the two of them leave through back. Slowly, he brought his fingers up to his neck. The magic from the compulsion spell tingling his fingers. With a groan, he stumbled to Ema¡¯s body and held her close. Tears streaming down his face and onto the bloody hole in the side of her head.

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­sorry,¡±

 Vengeance Comes

    Baron stumbled into his manor. His glazed eyes never left the floor as he slowly made his way to the stairs, and the empty bottle slipped from his grip. The servants who were going about their morning duties gave him worried stares. Baron groaned as he climbed the stairs, but his foot slipped off the step and he stumbled to his knees.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Baron looked to the top of the stairs. His father glared down at him with a gleam of disgust. ¡°Someone bring him to my office, now,¡±

    Bartholomew strode down the hall, and a servant helped Baron after him. The servant gently sat him down onto the sofa and left when Bartholomew stared at him. Baron sat there staring at the table, his hands shaking.

    ¡°Get a hold of yourself,¡± Bartholomew said slapping Baron across the head, ¡°Your weakness is making me look bad.¡±

    Baron glared up at his father, ¡°I¡¯m making you look bad,¡± he stood up, ¡°The one making you look bad is you! You¡¯re letting the monster walk all over you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been preparing. You, on the other hand, got your attendant stolen from underneath you,¡± Bartholomew growled, ¡°And it looks like you failed to bring her back.¡±

    ¡°The monster made it past our guards, doesn¡¯t that concern you!¡±

    ¡°Of course it does,¡± Bartholomew sat at his desk, ¡°That¡¯s why I had them beaten and replaced. What worries me is how you found where it was holding Taela.¡±

    ¡°It¡­told me where to find her. It was a trap.¡±

    ¡°Of course it was you imbecile!¡± Bartholomew said, ¡°And you fell right into it. Did it do anything to you?¡±

    Baron felt the magic spell burn into his neck, ¡°Just taunt me, then it took Taela away, after it killed Ema.¡±

    Bartholomew sighed heavily, ¡°So, you lost two women. You¡¯re more hopeless than I thought. At this point, I¡¯m more disappointed that it didn¡¯t kill you outright, then it would have spared me this humiliation.¡±

    ¡°Fuck you, old man!¡± Baron said, ¡°What would happen to your mighty empire if I did die? Would you take another whore to your bed until she bore you a son?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Bartholomew¡¯s voice emotionless, ¡°We aren¡¯t the Church boy. The only value someone has is whatever they can provide. Why do you think so many of our staff here are former prostitutes and thugs. Besides, you¡¯re just as guilty for taking in whores. You¡¯re no saint because you fell in love with one.¡±

    ¡°What about Reina?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s aware of her position, even when we¡¯re fighting.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell her about Taela,¡± Baron fell back onto the sofa, ¡°She deserves to know.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll let her know once I have the monster¡¯s head,¡± Bartholomew pulled out his reports, ¡°I need to get back to work. Go get cleaned up.¡±

    ¡°What are your plans for dealing with the monster?¡±

    Bartholomew glared at him, ¡°Leave,¡±

    Baron scoffed and stormed out of the office. Charolette was standing outside and curtsied to him when he walked past her.

    ¡°I have a bath ready for you master,¡± Charolette said trying to keep up.

    Baron nodded and made his way back to his room. He threw his clothes onto his common room sofa and entered the steaming bathroom. The warm water soothed his tired muscles, and it helped alleviate the headache that throbbed behind his eyes. Baron closed his eyes and laid his head on the soft towel that rested against the large copper tub.

    ¡°Let me wash you sir,¡± Water flowed over the side as Charolette climbed in. Her fingers ran along his neck, ¡°How¡¯d you get this mark?¡± she said worried.

    Baron pulled her hands away. She can¡¯t see the spell, good. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about it.¡±

    Charolette nodded and started washing him. Her fingers dug into his body, massaging the aches as well as cleaning off the filth from last night. Her hands lingered around his lower half, but he couldn¡¯t find the energy. She then climbed on top of him and started grinding. Normally, he would have taken a hold of her, burying his face into her soft, voluptuous chest, and had his way with her, but he couldn¡¯t. All he could see was Ema¡¯s body with blood pouring out of the hole in her head and the hurt stare in her eyes. He let out a sigh, trying his best not to break down.

    Charolette pressed herself against him, ¡°It¡¯s all right,¡± she cooed into his ear as she ran her fingers through his hair. She placed a few gentle kisses on his cheeks and lip, ¡°I¡¯m here.¡±

    Her weight was comforting, and Baron wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a tight embrace. He finally broke. Baron buried his face into Charolette¡¯s chest, tears mixing with the bathwater. Charolette hugged him back. She whispered into his ears comforting words, but he couldn¡¯t make them out. All he could hear was the monster¡¯s last command.

    <hr>

    Maelon stepped out of his carriage and smiled at the large building. It¡¯s pristine whitewashed exterior and glass dome took on the orange hue of the lanterns hanging off the walls. The warm light from the foyer beckoned him in, and he was met with frescos of beautiful men and women bathing on the banks of a river. Seven statues, each depicting the Virtues in sheer robes, lined the sides of the foyer with Touldan¡¯s standing proud and center.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    A woman with honey hair and simple white robe that hug her figured curtsied to him, ¡°Welcome to the bathhouse your grace,¡± she said with a sultry smile, ¡°I have a letter from master Baron for you.¡±

    My friend,

    Something has come up and I won¡¯t be able to meet with you tonight, but don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve made sure that you¡¯ll have plenty of company tonight.

    Your friend,

    Maelon laughed, ¡°He¡¯s turning into his father,¡± he handed the letter back, ¡°So has anyone else arrived?¡±

    ¡°Not yet sir,¡± the woman said, ¡°But master Baron reserved the bath solely for your use tonight. He also asked us to dim the lights so that you¡¯d have a more intimate mood, so I assume that your guest shall arrive shortly,¡± Her eyes fluttered as she bit her lip, ¡°Would you like me to keep you company until they arrive?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯d be lovely,¡± Maelon smiled as he made his way into the change room.

    The changing room consisted of a large wood paneled room with multiple baskets and cabinets to store the visitors clothes. Freshly laundered towels sat on top of the cabinets ready for use. After shedding his clothes, Maelon walked out into the large bath.

    The main room consisted of two large pools. One pool was clouded from the oils and herbs dispersed throughout the steaming water while the second was filled with clear crisp water. Maelon jumped into the clear pool, and the cold water caused goosebumps to form over his body. He let himself float along the pool letting the cold-water work on his body. Once his body acclimated, he jumped into the warm bath. Maelon sighed in relief and allowed himself to drift off. After a few moments, he opened his eyes to see the lanterns dimmed.

    ¡°Shall I wash your back your grace?¡±

    Maelon let his eyes take in the attendant¡¯s supple body. He nodded and walked over to the wooden stool sitting by her. He smiled when her eyes lingered on his lower body. Maelon enjoyed the scrubbing the attendant gave him. Her soft bosoms gently rubbed against his back as she ran her hands along his chest and stomach. When her hands went lower, he let out a deep growl which caused her to chuckle. Thank you, Baron. Her hand stopped.

    ¡°Why¡¯d you¡­stop?¡±

    A black mist skirted across the floor. He felt the attendant¡¯s shallow breathes, and the lights barely lit up the large central chamber.

    ¡°I¡­can¡¯t move,¡± The attendant cried, ¡°What¡¯s that...by the gate.¡±

    Maelon hadn¡¯t noticed the gate at the far end of the room, but now, he couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the two piercing red lights coming from the darkness behind it. The gate creaked open, and a metal claw dug into the stone wall. Another tore into the floor.

    ¡°Hallomarae¡¯s grace, what is that?¡±

    A monster stepped out of the darkness. It¡¯s red eyes pierced through Maelon as it approached. The monster towered over them, and Maelon noticed that the black mist was seeping from its left hand.

    A grinding chuckle came from the monster, ¡°Are we¡­interrupting,¡± Maelon shivered as its stared down at him, ¡°That looks painful, allow us to take care of it.¡±

    The monster¡¯s claw reached down and slid behind the attendant¡¯s hand. Maelon cried as pain shot through him, and the attendant screamed as his blood poured into her open hand. The monster held up its prize appraising it.

    ¡°We were expecting¡­more,¡± it growled. The appendage rapidly turned black, and the monster dropped it. It left a black stain on the stone floor. ¡°We¡¯ll tend to that. We wouldn¡¯t want you dying¡­yet.¡±

    The pain eased up, but Maelon couldn¡¯t take his eyes from what used to be his manhood.

    ¡°Damn you monster, I¡¯m the Duke¡¯s-¡± A claw racked against Maelon¡¯s face, knocking to the floor.

    ¡°We know who you are, your grace,¡± the monster said, ¡°We¡¯ll deal with you soon enough, but first.¡±

    Its gaze fell to the attendant, and she bawled as the monster approached. Maelon watched in horror as it picked the woman up by the neck, lifting her off the ground. A grinding metal noise came from it as its lower face opened, and his eyes grew wide as blood poured down her face. The bladed appendage retracted into the monster¡¯s mouth with a sickening sound, and it threw the attendant¡¯s corpse to the side.

    ¡°I¡¯ll kill you!¡±

    The monster¡¯s laugh taunted him, ¡°Is that so,¡± the black mist started to disperse, and Maelon could feel his body moving, ¡°By all means, try.¡±

    Maelon¡¯s leg shook as he rose to his feet, but he stumbled towards the monster and swung at it. The monster ducked the attack and pushed Maelon into the warm bath. Maelon screamed, which caused the water to rush down his throat, and he coughed as he tried getting back to his feet. The monster was crouched by the edge of the pool with a single finger in the water. Maelon screamed as his body convulsed painfully. The pain stopped when the monster removed its finger, but he didn¡¯t have the strength to stand.

    The monster jumped into the pool and grabbed Maelon by the hair, shoving his face under the water. Maelon couldn¡¯t scream, but water flooded his throat. When the monster pulled him up, Maelon coughed up the fluids through his mouth and nose. The monster slammed his face against the side of the pool then shoved him back under the water. The monster continued the cycle of drowning Maelon then pulling him up so he could get a breath of air.

    Tears mixed with the water on his face, ¡°Please¡­stop,¡±

    ¡°Stop,¡± the monster growl pulling him out of the pool, ¡°Did you stop when she asked you to!¡±

    ¡°Who,¡±

    ¡°Meridith, you bastard!¡± the monster threw him into the cold pool.

    The water shocked some of the life back into Maelon, and he scrambled to his feet trying to run away. A chill shot through his body, and his feet no longer moved. Maelon screamed in frustration when he saw his feet stuck in frozen water.

    ¡°There¡¯s no escaping us,¡± The monster circled the pool to face Maelon, ¡°Let¡¯s see how you like it.¡±

    Maelon cried as ice from the pool pierced him. The pain came in waves as it surged through his body when the spire crept further up but then would subside as the cold numbed it. Maelon tried struggling against his frozen bonds but all it did was cause his ankles to bleed and the pain from within to increase. Then, the pain intensified, and it nearly caused him to collapse.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Magic enveloped the monster¡¯s hand, and it washed over Maelon. It was torment as both relief and pain ran through him.

    ¡°I¡­don¡¯t want¡­to die,¡± Maelon couldn¡¯t stop the whimper from escaping.

    ¡°Repulsive,¡± the monster grinding growl grated his ears, ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be a hero,¡± the monster stepped onto the ice, ¡°People speak about you in awe, as if you were blessed by the Virtues. The people worship you!¡± Maelon screamed at the spike pierced another organ, ¡°Congratulations, you¡¯ve made us lose our appetite.¡± Maelon released another howl as blood pooled at his feet.

    <hr>

    Reviled stared at the near lifeless body in front of him. The only thing keeping Maelon alive was the healing spell which kept him from dying of blood loss. Maelon released a sad whimper as the top of the spike pierced through his neck causing blood to run down his chest. Reviled growled at the sad sight in front of him as he cut off the magic for the healing spell. Blood gushed out of the open wounds, and Maelon¡¯s eyes soon glazed over.

    ¡°Truly pathetic,¡±

    Reviled summoned his sword and severed Maelon¡¯s head. It picked up the head and made it¡¯s way to the foyer. Reviled climbed onto the statue of Touldan and placed the head on the scale in the god¡¯s left hand. Blood slowly pooled at the god¡¯s feet.

    ¡°Fitting, don¡¯t you think,¡± Reviled chuckled to the statue.

    Touldan¡¯s proud eyes glared back at the monster as it walked away. The lanterns had long since burned out as Reviled made its way back to the sewers.

    ¡°Baron,¡±

    Y-yes. Baron¡¯s voice echoed through its head.

    ¡°It¡¯s done. You can come pick your whore up tomorrow night.¡±

 Aftermath

    Magister Cromwell squinted at the documents in front of him. It was the usual petitions and reports he normally had to go through to keep the city running. They were also the reason why he had to wake up early every morning and stay up late, but it was necessary since the Duke wanted to spend more time with his family. It was a sacrifice he didn¡¯t mind making. After all, Sir Maelon would become duke in a few more months, and a new magister would take his place.

    Cromwell signed the petition, approving the next rotation of soldiers to be sent to the front with Sir Phineas, and rose from his chair. He stared out into the early morning. There was still a hint of darkness hanging around the horizon, but it was quickly fading away. He stood there taking in the serenity. A needed peace before the day truly began. A peace that was broken by the rapid pounding on his office door.

    ¡°Enter,¡± Cromwell sighed. A haggard looking attendant pushed inside, ¡°What is it?¡±

    The attendant closed the door and shuffled towards him, ¡°Sir¡­his grace, Sir Maelon,¡± he frantically looked around.

    ¡°Out with it!¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s dead.¡±

    Cromwell stumbled backwards, ¡°What¡­happened,¡±

    ¡°His body was found this morning at the bathhouse, along with the bath attendant,¡± the attendant said, ¡°His body was found skewered on a spike of ice with¡­his head and manhood removed.¡±

    ¡°Has the Duke been informed?¡± Cromwell leaned against the window.

    ¡°Not yet.¡±

    ¡°Good,¡± Cromwell said taking a deep breath, ¡°Have the guards secure the bathhouse. Let no one in until I say so.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡± the attendant ran out of the room.

    Cromwell took a few more deep breaths before stepping out of his office. This early in the morning, the Duke would be enjoying the sunrise with his wife out on their balcony. The thought of telling them the fate of their son broke his heart. Cromwell stood in front of their door and gently knocked on the door.

    ¡°Your grace, I have something I need to tell you,¡± Cromwell said straightening his robes, ¡°May I come it?¡±

    ¡°Enter,¡±

    Cromwell quietly pushed into the master bedroom. The Duke and Duchess sat close to each other at the small table on their balcony. They both were still dressed in their night robes sipping on tea with their hands intertwined.

    ¡°Good morning, Cromwell,¡± the Duchess smiled warmly at him, ¡°Would you care for some tea?¡±

    ¡°Thank you, my lady, but no,¡± Cromwell said standing at the balcony door, ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb your morning, your grace, but I have urgent information that needs your attention.¡±

    ¡°Is it that important,¡± The Duke looked to his wife with a pained expression. His thumb gently rubbing against her forefinger.

    ¡°I afraid so sir,¡±

    The Duke sighed with a nod, ¡°I¡¯m sorry my dear,¡± he kissed her hand then leaned over and gave her a deep kiss, ¡°I¡¯ll make it up to you tonight.¡±

    The Duchess smiled at him and gave him another kiss before he left. Cromwell followed the Duke to his office. The staff bowed to the Duke with genuine smiles and a warm greeting to which he returned in kind. The Duke stepped into his office and sat at his desk.

    ¡°All right Cromwell,¡± The Duke sighed stretching his neck, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­sorry to inform you¡­that Maelon is dead,¡± Cromwell said clearing his throat.

    The Duke stared at him dumbfounded, ¡°My¡­son,¡± he croaked with tears forming in his eyes. The Duke took several shallow breaths as he stared at his hands, ¡°But¡­I saw him last night. He was alive.¡± The Duke glared up at him, ¡°Who killed my son!¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know sir,¡± Cromwell said, ¡°I just found out about it. I¡¯m having the guards secure the place where he was found.¡±

    The Duke forcefully stood up, ¡°What are we waiting for,¡± he said storming out, ¡°And go fetch Sir Halligan!¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan shifted uncomfortably at the sight of his reflection. Scars riddled his body, trophies that he wore proudly, but it was his left arm that disgusted him. The flesh below the elbow was gone revealing the bleached white bone of his forearm and hand. The price of his foolishness for wearing a cursed gauntlet. He watched the bones in his wrist and fingers shift with a soft clicking as he slipped on the black gauntlet. The magic made his arm itch as it coursed through his bones, and he peeked into his bedroom.

    Priscilla, the Duke¡¯s youngest daughter, slept in the wide bed, curled up in the sheets. She spent all night teaching him to read and write. A skill he was grateful to learn, but it made his heart ache. The poor girl was doing everything in her power to win his affection, but it wasn¡¯t going to work. He saw her more like a younger sister than a lover. His right hand brought the braided cord around his neck to his nose. Her scent was long gone, only a memory remained, but it didn¡¯t stop him from remembering her face.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    A knock sounded from the door, and the Duke stormed into his room.

    ¡°I need you to come with me.¡±

    By the end of the hour, Halligan sat in the Duke¡¯s carriage. It felt small due to the Duke¡¯s seething rage. The court mage, Elizar, sat next to the Duke, trying to study his spell book, and Magister Cromwell was going over several reports.

    ¡°May I ask where we¡¯re going your grace,¡± Halligan took a deep breath trying to calm himself.

    ¡°The bathhouse,¡± The Duke growled, ¡°There was¡­an incident last night. One you should know of.¡±

    Halligan nodded. He turned to the window and saw the people outside going about their day. They were smiling and laughing, enjoying the bright, sunny day. None of them were aware of the horror residing in their city.

    The carriage rocked to a halt and the coachman let them out. The grand structure of the bathhouse reminded him of a temple. It¡¯s white pillars glistening in the sunlight, and the glass dome sparkled. The inside was equally impressive, until he saw the statue. Halligan stared in shock as the severed head of Maelon stared at them in horror as it desecrated the statue of Touldan. Streams of blood ran down the statues robes and feet, pooling at the base before seeping onto the floor. An intense itch throbbed under his left gauntlet.

    ¡°By the Virtues,¡± Cromwell gasped at the sight.

    The Duke approached the statue and fell to his knees. His cries echoed through the vast foyer. The few guards that were with them bowed their heads in respect.

    ¡°You two should begin investigating,¡± Cromwell whispered Halligan and the mage, ¡°There should be evidence in the main bath.¡±

    The two men nodded and quietly as they made their way into the back. Two groups of guards stood in the large bathing area, one around a headless body skewered on a spike of ice, and the other around a woman¡¯s body thrown to the side. The court mage made his way to the headless body. Halligan made his way to the other body trying desperately to ignore the pulsing of his gauntlet.

    The guards turned to him and stepped out of his way. The woman was beautiful, once, but the gaping hole in the center of her forehead made him flinch. Her death was quick, and hopefully painless.

    ¡°Who is she?¡± Halligan said, trying to avoid gazing at her exposed body.

    ¡°The bathhouse attendant,¡± a guard whispered, ¡°They keep the building clean, and sometimes¡­perform special services. His grace was most like enjoying those services before he passed.¡±

    ¡°Why do you say that?¡±

    ¡°Her hand,¡± Another guard said. Halligan looked and noticed her hand was cupped with the thumb and forefinger making a circle, but it was also stained in blood. Halligan looked at the guards confused. ¡°Haven¡¯t you been to a brothel before?¡±

    ¡°No,¡±

    ¡°You should,¡± the guard sighed.

    ¡°Sir Halligan!¡± the court mage waved him down.

    Halligan quickly made his way to the other side of the room. Just like with the woman, he flinched when he noticed Maelon¡¯s missing appendage, and where the spike had pierced the body. It was a terrible sight.

    ¡°What have you found?¡± Halligan took a deep breath.

    ¡°This was definitely done by a powerful magic caster,¡± Elizar said, ¡°You would need a high level of skill to control that much natural mana to freeze an entire pool, not to mention the skill needed to shape it while maintaining the spell.¡±

    ¡°Could you do that?¡±

    The court mage wheezed a chuckle, ¡°Of course not, only a true wizard could perform such a feat and you¡¯ll only find them in the capital,¡± the mage¡¯s face turned sour, ¡°However, I¡¯m picking up a hint of necrotic magic as well. It¡¯s lingers throughout the entire bath, but there¡¯s a concentrated source coming from that spot.¡± He pointed to the edge of the second pool. They found a pool of thick black sludge, but the shape hinted at what it once was. ¡°So, this is where his manhood was removed,¡± the mage gagged, ¡°This is definitely the work of necrotic magic.¡±

    ¡°The bath attendant must have been killed here too.¡± Halligan said pointing to the pool of blood to avoid scratching at his arm. ¡°Apparently, she was servicing him before she died. What¡¯s odd is that she had a large amount of blood on her hand.¡± Halligan made the same gesture.

    ¡°So, it was cut off during the service, but why would his grace allow that?¡± the mage stroked his chin, ¡°Do you think the attendant was involved?¡±

    ¡°No, otherwise she wouldn¡¯t have been killed,¡± Halligan said, ¡°Are there spells that could explain this?¡±

    The court mage flicked through his spell book, ¡°There are a few,¡± he said, ¡°But with the amount of necrotic magic in the air, I¡¯m thinking the caster used Noxious Miasma. It would have the strongest paralysis effect.¡±

    ¡°That would explain the hole in the woman¡¯s head,¡±

    ¡°Hole?¡±

    ¡°Yes, she had a hole in the middle of her forehead.¡±

    The mage¡¯s face turned pale, ¡°So, his Grace''s son was killed by the mysterious murderer? Why would he target nobility?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I don¡¯t like it.¡±

    <hr>

    Taela cowered next to the raised platform where the monster sat. The atmosphere was heavy as everyone sat around waiting. Every few seconds she would glance up at it. The red headed woman, Meridith, was held in the monster¡¯s arms. Taela¡¯s heart ached at seeing her in such a state, but she knew that the emotion wasn¡¯t hers. The monster¡¯s influence was seeping into her through the compulsion spell that bound her, and after a week, it was getting hard to distinguish her feelings from its.

    A knock came from the basement door, and Baron was let in by one of the thugs Oria employed. He looked ragged. His luscious black hair was unkempt and unwashed, and dark circles hung around his eyes. A perpetual frown replaced his constant mischievous grin, but his mouth twitched into a small smile when he saw her.

    ¡°I¡¯ve kept my end of the bargain monster,¡± Baron glared at the monster.

    The monster gently set Meridith to the side and rose to its feet. Taela stood as well and took a step towards Baron. Before she realized it, the monster tore off Taela¡¯s shift and clawed at her chest, and she screamed as the magic coursed through her. The monster pushed her into Baron.

    ¡°Bastard, you¨C¡± Reviled drove its claws into Baron¡¯s chest, and Taela cried as warm blood seeped down her chest.

    ¡°You should know, a slave crest can be applied wherever we can touch.¡±

    Baron¡¯s pain filled the room. When his cries stopped, Reviled threw him to the ground. Taela tried to stop the bleeding with her tattered clothing. Her own pain nearly forgotten.

    ¡°You two are too useful to let go,¡± Reviled growled. The wound in Baron¡¯s chest glowed as the monster healed him. ¡°From now on, you belong to us.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re letting them join after what they did to Red?¡± Oria scoffed.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled stated taking Meridith back into its arms, ¡°However, we¡¯ll be keeping them on a tight leash,¡± Pain seared through Taela¡¯s chest, and she doubled over onto Baron, ¡°Be warned, I doubt his heart could withstand the strain.¡±

    Taela nodded, staining Baron¡¯s chest with tears. Slowly, they rose to a sitting position. They were unable to avoid everyone¡¯s glares.

    ¡°What¡¯s the next move?¡± Kogna said, tending to his sword.

    ¡°It¡¯s time we overthrew Decker.¡±

 Solomonâ€™s Burden

    Solomon stared out onto the Fort, but to call it a fort would be an exaggeration. A rickety wooden wall separated the horde of undead from the tent city. It was one of many hastily built walls meant to slow down the Wight King¡¯s armies. A geyser erupted from the eastern lake, and he gave a silent thanks to the Virtues for the monster living within its depths. It kept the undead Horde from crossing the Cyrulian sea.

    ¡°Sir Solomon!¡±

    Solomon turned to the gathered party around the table. They all wore similar plate mail to his except for their scapulars. The one who addressed him was a large man with a clean-shaven head and face with a long scar running down the side of his head and down his neck. His amber scapular bore the crest of Rook¡¯hym, the Virtue of fortitude and perseverance, which was a tower overlaid on a shield.

    ¡°My apologies Sir Grenwhel,¡± Solomon said returning his attention to the war map.

    ¡°I understand your desire to please Touldan, but please pay attention,¡± the others laughed as they turned to the map, ¡°We¡¯re going to need to go back up the pass,¡± Grenwhel pointed to the slim road on the map, ¡°Even with Touldan¡¯s sword, there¡¯s no possible way for us to fight an entire army by ourselves. It¡¯ll take longer, but we can take this road to the quarry and then find another path through the mountains.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we go around the Cyrulian Sea?¡± another paladin said. He wore a green scapular with a dove and rose, the crest of Hallomarae.

    ¡°It¡¯ll take too long,¡± Solomon said, ¡°And I don¡¯t want to cross into the Shek¡¯ Syra desert in the middle of summer.¡± This garnered a few laughs.

    ¡°But it should be safer,¡±

    ¡°Time is against us!¡± Grenwhel said.

    ¡°Sir Grenwhel¡¯s right,¡± Solomon sighed pointing to map, ¡°Summers are short in the Whyl highlands, and their winters are twice as brutal. This land is meant for the strong of heart, and even then, only the Vygaern can live here without hindrance.¡± His gaze turned serious, ¡°Trust me.¡±

    ¡°Are you from this area?¡± a paladin with the crest of Syranda, the Virtue of loyalty and compassion, said.

    ¡°No¡­but my mentor was.¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll follow your lead after we leave the mountains,¡± Grenwhel said, ¡°Finish your preparations, we leave in the morning.¡±

    The paladins nodded as they headed out of the tent. Solomon passed through the well-made tents that belonged to the officers and lesser nobles. The tents were spaced out all the way up the pass until they reached the third wall that protected the greater nobles. Even on a battlefield, people had to separate themselves by class. Solomon stopped in front of the second wall, and passed through it when the soldiers slid a small section open for him.

    Solomon looked down on the lower pass and the highlands beyond. He could see the amassed armies of the Wight King sitting a few miles away from the wall blocking the mountain pass. The undead just stood there, an imposing black mass upon the land. He proceeded through the pass.

    Filthy, rickety tents were scattered haphazardly down to the first wall. Solomon passed a group of men who were conscripted into the fight. They stood in broken formation, wearing their plain clothes and wielding farm tools as makeshift weapons. The men sloppily saluted him, but he returned it with a reassuring smile. Further down the pass, he came upon a group of women hanging the laundry from tent poles. They smiled and nodded to him.

    ¡°Save me!¡±

    A group of children were playing with sticks and pans pretending to be in battle. One group were trying to protect a little girl. One-by-one the kid defenders dramatically died until the girl was left alone.

    She spotted Solomon and cried out, ¡°Save me sir hero!¡± The kids stopped and turned to him.

    Solomon chuckled and picked up a thin stick, ¡°I¡¯ll save you princess!¡±

    The girl¡¯s eyes lit up with her large smile. Solomon gently tapped each of the children with his stick causing them to die in overdramatic ways. After the last kid died, Solomon picked up the girl.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad your safe princess,¡± Solomon kissed the top of her head. The poor girl blushed with a shy smile.

    ¡°A princess,¡± Solomon turned to see his wife standing behind him carrying a laundry basket, ¡°Woe is me,¡± Schybara sighed dramatically, ¡°My husband¡¯s heart has been stolen by an adorable princess. What¡¯s a hero¡¯s wife to do?¡±

    Solomon chuckled as he set the girl down, ¡°Let me heal your valiant knights,¡±

    The kids jumped to their feet laughing and ran away. The girl waved back at them as she followed. A gentle smile came to Solomon¡¯s lips as he wrapped an arm around Schybara.

    ¡°They¡¯re precious, aren¡¯t they,¡± Schybara smiled as a tear ran down her cheek. Her lower lip quivered violently. Solomon kissed her gently. ¡°So, you¡¯re not throwing me away for a princess?¡± She teased.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need a princess,¡± Solomon kissed her again, ¡°Because I already have a queen.¡±

    Schybara let out a beautiful laugh, ¡°Aren¡¯t you a charmer,¡± She propped the basket on her hip, and took Solomon¡¯s arm, ¡°How¡¯d the meeting go?¡± They slowly made their way back to their tent.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be leaving in the morning for Delmiere,¡± Solomon sighed heavily, ¡°We¡¯re going to try and find another way through the mountains.¡±

    ¡°And what about everyone here,¡±

    ¡°Only a handful of paladins will be joining the expedition,¡± Solomon said, ¡°The rest will stay here with the soldiers to protect the pass. Hopefully, they can get the rest of these citizens to move south.¡±

    ¡°Sol, these people don¡¯t have anywhere to go,¡± Schybara sighed.

    ¡°The church is offering to help,¡± Solomon sighed looking at the poor people, ¡°They¡¯re giving up land around their monasteries to help them resettle, and they¡¯re pushing the nobles to take in more refugees. Yet, they continue to sit here.¡±

    ¡°I understand your frustration,¡± Schybara rested her head on his arm, ¡°But this is something you can¡¯t control, and you need to realize that.¡± Solomon nodded with a sigh. Schybara pulled him down and whispered into his ear, ¡°How about I take your mind off it?¡± she smiled seductively. Solomon smiled as he let himself be dragged into the tent.

    <hr>

    Solomon buried his face into Schybara¡¯s hair. He deeply breathed in her scent as he kissed the back of her neck. Schybara ran her foot along his leg with a chuckle. She rolled over and kissed him multiple times.

    ¡°Feeling better now,¡±

    Solomon rolled on top of her and pinned her to the ground, ¡°Much,¡± he said, deeply kissing her.

    ¡°Sir Solomon,¡± a messenger stormed into their tent. His face turned red and he quickly stepped outside, ¡°Apologies.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡± Solomon sighed as Schybara chuckled.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°The enemy¡¯s on the move.¡±

    Solomon and his wife jumped out bed, ¡°What¡¯s their formation looking like?¡± he said, throwing on his clothes.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but I¡¯ve heard somarie dirgahn are leading the charge,¡±

    Schybara stared in horror, ¡°They have dirgahn,¡± she said, ¡°Sol, they¡¯ll tear through the walls.¡±

    Solomon strapped on his plate mail, ¡°Where is Sir Grenwhel and his party?¡±

    ¡°They¡¯re by the third wall. I was told to collect you so you can start your journey.¡±

    ¡°What about the people!¡± Solomon growled as he finished donning his armor.

    ¡°I was simply ordered to collect you sir,¡±

    Schybara gently touched his shoulder, ¡°We should go talk to them,¡±

    Solomon nodded and stormed out of the tent. The soldiers rushed about getting ready. The conscripted refugees stood in mismatched formation next to the well-regimented soldiers, and the women kept a firm hold on their children as they ran up the pass. There was no time for them to gather any of their belongings, so the lowest section was littered with forgotten remains.

    Solomon snarled as they entered the second section of the pass. The knights and nobles had the citizens lined up against the mountain wall so that their forces could line up in formation. The women and children weren¡¯t allowed to pass until the soldiers were finished, and the third wall was closed shut before the refugees could reach it. Sir Grenwhel and the other paladins stood by the wall with their horses.

    ¡°Good, the messenger got to you,¡± Grenwhel said handing him the reins to another horse, ¡°We should leave now.¡±

    ¡°What about them,¡± Solomon gestured to the citizens begging for the walls to open, ¡°What about the men getting ready to fight.¡± A loud roar echoed through the pass behind them.

    ¡°I understand your concern, but we need to be logical about this,¡± Grenwhel said looking down the pass, ¡°If we stay, there is a chance that you could die. You are the only one wielding one of the seven weapons. The sooner we destroy the Wight King, the sooner this war will end. Now come.¡±

    The wall opened for them. Soldiers held the refugees back, so that they didn¡¯t flood into the third section of the pass. Solomon sighed in frustration, but he couldn¡¯t look at the refugees. Time seemed to slow down as he took his first step.

    Why don¡¯t you think for yourself for once!

    A smile came to his lips as he remembered Sir Garrod¡¯s stern glare. Solomon grasped the hilt of Touldan¡¯s sword, and he stood tall. The divine energy coursed through him.

    ¡°We should fight,¡± the paladins turned back to him. Sir Grenwhel cocked an eyebrow at him, ¡°I understand your reasoning Sir Grenwhel, but we¡¯re needed here. If the dirgahn aren¡¯t taken out soon, then Fortress Delmiere will fall.¡±

    ¡°But what if you die?¡±

    ¡°Another hero will come along, as long as the Grand Cathedral stands,¡± Solomon said, ¡°But if the enemy makes it through the pass, then they¡¯ll head straight for Mrythala. If all the weapons are destroyed, then the Wight King will stand unopposed, and he knows this.¡±

    The paladins¡¯ thoughts were interrupted by a loud crashing noise sounded down the pass and was followed by men screaming. The sobs from the women and children joined the war cries.

    ¡°Very well,¡± Grenwhel said, ¡°Olren, Del, get the refugees into the next section. The rest of you will join us in taking out the dirgahn.¡±

    The paladins wearing blue and red scapulars nodded and ran over to the refugees. Solomon walked alongside Grenwhel as they made their way back to the front wall. The death cries grew louder, and the paladins stood in front of the soldiers.

    ¡°Men,¡± Grenwhel addressed the soldiers, ¡°When the dirgahn break through, go for their legs. We need to bring them down here, so that the enemy can¡¯t break through anymore of the walls!¡± The men shouted in acknowledgement.

    Solomon drew his sword as a strange green smoke came from the other side of the wall. The smoke was accompanied by a putrid, rotting smell. A loud roar echoed through the pass, and the wall exploded in front of them. Heavy footsteps shook the ground as three dirgahn advanced.

    The monstrous reptiles stood over ten feet tall, and they could barely fit next to each other. Their dull gray scales were flaky with sickly patches of skin appearing underneath. The saliva dripping off their thick jowls hissed as it landed on the remains of the wooden wall, and their claws dug into the ground. They blinked at the soldiers with their inner eyelids, and took in a gurgling breath.

    ¡°Quick shields!¡± Grenwhel said raising his hand, ¡°Divine Ward!¡±

    The other paladins followed in kind, and a golden ethereal shield separated the monsters from the soldiers. The dirgahns spat up a putrid bile that sprayed over magic barrier, but it didn¡¯t protect them from the foul, acidic smell. Once the dirgahn were done, the soldiers charged forward.

    Spears pierced the monster¡¯s legs, but the cuts were small, unnoticeable. The dirgahn roared and slashed at the barriers with their claws, but their size made it difficult for them to strike. A blue aura surrounded Schybara, and she ran towards the center dirgahn.

    She struck the monster with her axe, leaving a deep cut along the front left wrist. The monster cried in pain and turned to fight her. Its tail slammed into the right dirgahn, forcing it into the mountain, and it butted heads with the left one which caused it to fall off the side of the pass. They heard the monster crash into the water followed by its terrified screams which quickly died away. The right dirgahn bit into the other monster¡¯s tail and tore it off. The two monsters hissed and snapped at each other in anger.

    The paladin¡¯s released their magical barrier and jumped into the fight. With their divine-infused weapons, they struck the monsters¡¯ legs. Due to their size, the dirgahn couldn¡¯t move fast enough to fight back, and at times they would accidently hit each other which caused them to start fighting again. Solomon drove Touldan¡¯s sword deep into the chest of the center dirgahn. He willed the divine magic in the blade to drive deeper into the monster, and he slashed down the monster¡¯s stomach. The magic cut the monster in half, the putrid entrails spilling onto the pass.

    Solomon stepped away from the monstrous corpse and wiped the sweat from his brow. Schybara patted his shoulder and gestured to the second dirgahn. The paladins stood over the corpse with their weapons raised. The soldiers cheered.

    ¡°Return to formation,¡± Grenwhel called out, ¡°Fall back to the third wall!¡±

    The soldiers followed orders, and slowly marched backwards. The frontlines brought up their shields with their spears held at the ready. Solomon was about to follow the others back.

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again, master Solomon,¡±

    Solomon froze then slowly turned around. A tall vygaern man stepped past the dirgahns¡¯ bodies. His black hair was now mostly gray, and deep wrinkles lined his eyes and mouth. He wore a thick coat and leggings with leather pauldrons, braces and greaves, and he carried two identical axes in each hand. His tattoos matched the blue aura around him.

    Solomon stared in horror at the ghost from his past, ¡°Benharren,¡±

    Benharren smiled warmly as his eyes fell to the golden sword, ¡°Congratulations on becoming a hero. His majesty¡­will be most pleased.¡±

    Solomon pointed the sword at him, ¡°Don¡¯t patronize me!¡± he snarled.

    ¡°Come on Sol,¡± Schybara tried pulling him away.

    ¡°You should listen to the e¡¯ga,¡± Benharren¡¯s smile turned sad.

    Five knights in black armor stepped from behind Benharren. The rotting stench of necrotic mana hung heavily on them, and Solomon could feel the seething contempt they had for him. The lich-knights drew their weapons.

    ¡°Should we¡­eliminate the paladin sir?¡±

    Benharren sighed, ¡°If you can,¡±

    The lich-knights slowly approached. Solomon blocked the first attack and quickly stepped away from the second. Schybara blocked the third attack and forced the fourth knight to back off. The two continued to fight back-to-back fending off the undead knights. Benharren sat on the dirgahn corpse watching with a sad smile. Solomon growled, and grabbed the arm of the knight in front of him and shoved his sword into the knight¡¯s chest. The lich screamed as the divine magic coursed through its body turning it to dust. The armor and weapon fell to the ground as Solomon moved to the next. One by one, each knight fell, leaving a pile of dust and armor.

    Benharren clapped as he approached them, ¡°Well done master Solomon,¡± he said drawing his axes, ¡°Would you like to continue or flee?¡± Solomon charged him.

    ¡°Sol wait!¡±

    Solomon couldn¡¯t. The enemy commander stood right in front of them. If they killed him, then it would greatly weaken the enemy¡¯s strength. He needed to strike Benharren before he could activate his magic tattoos. The Sword of Touldan pierced Benharren¡¯s coat, then shattered into multiple sparks of golden light.

    Solomon gasped as he looked at Benharren, ¡°You¡¯re¡­human?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, master Solomon,¡± Benharren¡¯s blue aura appeared, and he struck at the dumbfounded paladin.

    Solomon was tackled to the ground, and he heard Schybara scream in pain. The green aura surrounding her dissipated as she tried to hold her left arm together. Her shield split in half with a deep cut in her forearm. Solomon quickly picked her up and ran towards the third wall. He could see the soldiers slowly filing through the opening. Behind them, Benharren stood watching them flee.

    ¡°I expected better from you, master Solomon!¡±

    ¡°Dammit, I¡¯m sorry Schee,¡± Solomon panted running up the steep path. They passed through into the third section, and he sat her down on a rock. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said laying his hand on her wounded arm.

    Healing magic seeped into her, knitting the arm back together. Schybara gently touched his cheek and wiped the dirt away.

    ¡°Don¡¯t do something foolish again, alright,¡± she gave him a tired smile. Her eyes fell to the broken sword in his left hand, ¡°What are we going to do now?¡±

    Solomon sighed as he sheathed the blade, ¡°It¡¯ll repair itself, but it¡¯ll take time,¡± he said helping her up, ¡°Until then, I¡¯ll just have to rely on my halberd.¡±

    Schybara looked worried, ¡°Who was he?¡±

    ¡°Benharren is a retainer to my former mentor,¡± Solomon cleared his throat, ¡°He was deathly loyal to Garrod when he married Benharren¡¯s sister, even now.¡±

    ¡°Then why is he fighting for the enemy?¡±

    ¡°Because¡­Sir Garrod is the Wight King.¡± Solomon held her tight which she reciprocated.

 Uncertain Times

    Oria sauntered into the well-furnished instrument shop. All the instruments sparkled with fresh wax, and not a single speck of dust could be seen. The elderly shop keeper stepped out from the back room and stared at her.

    ¡°Mistress Oria,¡± Wilfried said with a nervous smile, ¡°To what do I owe the pleasure?¡±

    Oria smiled sweetly as she leaned on the counter, ¡°I¡¯m here to see you Wilfried,¡± she said pulling out a slip of paper from her pocket, ¡°My boss has some merchandise he wants to sell.¡±

    ¡°My dear, I¡¯m honored you thought of me,¡± Wilfried returned her pleasant smile, ¡°But it¡¯s against my better judgment to support my patron¡¯s rival. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure,¡± Oria slid the paper over.

    Wilfried looked at the folded parchment, then quickly slipped it into his palm. His eyes scanned the contents of the notes, and his eyes grew large in shock. His eyes repeatedly glanced between Oria and the list.

    ¡°Is this accurate?¡±

    ¡°It is,¡± Oria said, running her finger over the desk, ¡°My boss is sitting on a nice stock of cursed items that he wants to sell off, and I¡¯m sure you could find the right buyers.¡±

    Wilfried slipped the paper into his pocket, ¡°If I was to do this, then I¡¯ll need a thirty percent cut,¡±

    ¡°You usually take ten,¡± Oria scoffed.

    ¡°My dear,¡± Wilfried gently patted her hand, ¡°If I do this, then I¡¯ll need to flee the city. When Decker finds out, and he will, he¡¯ll come after me and my family. It¡¯s either thirty percent or nothing.¡±

    ¡°Fine, you can take thirty, but I¡¯m expecting a list of your contacts.¡±

    Wilfried held out his hand, ¡°We have a deal,¡±

    <hr>

    Strong hands held her down with the fingers digging into the flesh of her thighs and breasts. She wanted to scream, but the man forced his mouth against hers. She dug her nails into his back and sides, hoping the pain would make him stop, but it seemed to excite him more. When he broke away from the kiss, she could finally scream.

    Meridith woke with her scream. Tears streamed down her cheeks, and she furiously wiped them away from her face, but she couldn''t stop crying. Meridith buried herself in her sheets and tightly held onto her pillow. The pillow was crusty from the many nights she had cried into it.

    A muffled knock came from the door, ¡°Lady Meridith,¡± Vaera gently stepped inside, ¡°I heard you scream, are you alright?¡±

    ¡°It was a bad dream,¡± Meridith said, unable to find the strength to pull back the covers, ¡°Nothing to worry about.¡±

    ¡°Well¡­I brought you something to eat,¡± she heard the clattering of dishes, ¡°I¡¯ll leave it here on the desk for you. Also, mother, Ada and I are going to do some shopping, and everyone else is out running errands,¡± Meridith hissed in a breath as she tightened her grip on her pillow, ¡°However, the master is in the basement. He said to call on him should you need anything.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Vaera,¡± Meridith said as a small smile came to her lips, ¡°Have a good time for me, will you.¡±

    ¡°I will, thank you,¡±

    Meridith heard the door close, and Vaera¡¯s footsteps disappeared. She slipped her fingers around the covers, but her strength quickly waned. Her heart slammed against her chest with each beat thundering in her ear. Breathing became difficult and Meridith was forced to take rapid shallow breaths. She pulled her hand back under the blankets.

    ¡°This¡­is pathetic,¡± Meridith whispered into her pillow.

    She closed her eyes as her breathing calmed, then she quickly threw the blankets off. Slowly, she opened her eyes. Her bedroom had simple furnishings. A desk sat on the opposite side of the bed. A vanity and wardrobe sat next to the window with the daylight filling the room.

    Meridith forced her breathing to remain calm as she pushed herself into a sitting position. She panted as her feet touched the floor. Meridith grunted and sneered as she pushed herself off the bed, and she stumbled over to the desk. A tray with a bowl of fruit sat on it. She popped a piece into her mouth, but it left no taste. As soon as she swallowed, her body tried to force it back up, and she fought the urge to vomit. Meridith panted heavily as drool seeped from her mouth, and she slowly ate the fruit. After the bowl was empty, she fell into the chair trying to catch her breath. Tears leaked from her eyes, and she covered her face with her hands. After a few seconds, she was able to calm herself. She let her hand fall onto the desk where it fell onto Ilan¡¯s old spell book.

    Meridith pulled the book closer and started to read. She had read it multiple times, and although she understood the part about the types of mana, she couldn¡¯t quite grasp how to apply it. It mentioned how the air wasn¡¯t empty. Instead, it was filled with aether, a solid substance that was so small that no one could see it, and that by using natural mana, this ether could be manipulated to perform magic.

    ¡°Next thing it¡¯ll tell me is that lightning doesn¡¯t come from the sky,¡± Meridith scoffed as she flipped the page.

    She rolled her eyes as the book went into aether again, but a small note at the bottom caught her attention. Confused, she closed the book and tucked it under her arm. Meridith shuffled down the hall to the stairs and into the dining hall. The mess from that night no longer remained, but the ghosts of that night still lingered. She quickly made her way to the stairs leading to the basement. Inside, she found Reviled sitting in his booth. He had the six skeletal arms attached, each holding a piece of parchment, and he was reading all six at the same time. While doing that, he was writing down notes.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!

    ¡°What do you need from us, Meridith?¡± Reviled said, gently.

    Meridith slowly walked into the room, ¡°I was¡­hoping you could explain something for me. It¡¯s about witchcraft.¡±

    Reviled set the papers to the side and gestured for her to approach. Meridith sat to the side, but Reviled pulled her close, the skeletal arms gently wrapped around her. Meridith leaned against him as she handed the book over. The metal was surprisingly warm. Reviled scanned through the book, then its eyes dimmed for a few seconds.

    ¡°What do you want to know?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand this line here,¡± Meridith pointed to a single sentence, ¡°It mentions witchcraft as bending mana to fit the caster¡¯s will.¡±

    ¡°From our memories, wizardry relies on an understanding of how the world works,¡± Reviled hummed in thought, but it came off as a growl, ¡°For example, Produce Flame,¡± a small fire flickered over one of the right skeletal hands, ¡°By gathering the aether in a small area and forcing the element to collide with itself, we can produce a small flame. We can then increase or decrease the size by changing the amount of mana we¡¯re using.¡±

    ¡°But how is witchcraft different?¡±

    ¡°Witchcraft forces natural mana to conform to the witches¡¯ desire,¡± Reviled looked at her, ¡°We don¡¯t know exactly how, since we haven¡¯t devoured a witch, but it¡¯s different enough since mages and wizards see it as inferior magic.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Meridith sighed in frustration.

    ¡°I¡¯m back!¡± Oria¡¯s voice echoed from the stairs. She stepped into the basement waving a thin sheet of parchment, ¡°The deal¡¯s going through boss,¡± her smile faded when she noticed Meridith, ¡°How¡¯re feeling Red?¡±

    ¡°I was doing well, until you showed up,¡± Meridith scoffed as she snuggled closer to Reviled.

    Oria chuckled, ¡°Same to you too, bitch,¡± she said crawling onto Reviled¡¯s other side, ¡°Wilfried¡¯s going to set up the auction, boss.¡±

    Reviled chuckled as it scooped Oria up with its other arms, ¡°Excellent, when can we expect it to take place?¡±

    ¡°In a few weeks,¡± Oria smiled smugly at Meridith, who sneered in response, ¡°He¡¯ll send a messenger when he¡¯s ready to hold it, and he¡¯s willing to introduce us to his more prominent clients.¡±

    ¡°Well done, Oria,¡± Reviled said brushing her golden hair, ¡°However, we¡¯ll need you to do some shopping for us. Anonymity is our greatest weapon, and we¡¯d hate to lose it.¡± He handed Oria a note, ¡°Also, deliver this to Andren for us as well.¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan stared down at the parchment in front of him. He¡¯d been helping with the investigation into Maelon¡¯s death, and these were the notes he had taken. His notes were practically illegible, each word sloppily written, and every other word misspelled. His sentences slopped downward, so a chunk of the page was left unused.

    ¡°Master Halligan,¡± the court mage¡¯s call drew his attention, ¡°Why don¡¯t you leave the scribing to me.¡±

    ¡°I appreciate the offer Elizar, but I¡¯d like to take my own notes,¡± Halligan said with a small smile, ¡°Lady Priscilla was kind enough to teach me these skills, so I¡¯d like to use them as much as possible.¡±

    Elizar smiled and nodded, ¡°Very admirable sir, I¡¯m sure her ladyship would be pleased to know you value her teachings so much.¡±

    ¡°Have you found anything?¡±

    Elizar flipped through his notes, ¡°The only thing that was found was a letter addressed to his grace by ¡®a friend,¡¯ and magister Cromwell was able to find a record of the Decker estate booking the bath for the entire night.¡±

    Halligan scratched at his chin, ¡°Why would his grace go to a bathhouse when the castle already has impressive baths?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not unusual,¡± Elizar said, ¡°Sometimes, lesser nobles and supporters wish to earn the Duke¡¯s favor, and there were many who wanted to get into Sir Maelon¡¯s good graces, since he was the next in line. Not to mention, the Decker¡¯s have been staunch supporters of the Duke and his family for decades. I¡¯m more curious about the other body.¡±

    ¡°The bath attendant,¡± Halligan flipped through his notes, ¡°It¡¯s obvious that she died from a strike to her head. There were others who died of similar injuries correct?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Elizar pulled out some documents, ¡°According to these reports there have been a total of forty victims reported, but I¡¯m certain there are more. Oddly enough, the last victims seen with these wounds were¡­¡±

    ¡°The arena owners,¡± Halligan finished.

    ¡°That was nearly a year ago,¡± Elizar scratched his head, ¡°What has this person been doing since then?¡±

    ¡°Not sure. Is there anything that the victims have in common?¡±

    Elizar scanned through records, and he stared in shock at Halligan, ¡°Yes, more than half of them were associated with Bartholomew Decker.¡± Halligan hummed in thought, ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°Baron was the one who told Solomon, Schybara, and me about the tome and where we could find it,¡± Halligan scrunched his nose, ¡°That¡¯s where we found the monster who had it. I¡­think the monster might be tied to these murders.¡±

    ¡°And to Bartholomew Decker,¡± Elizar said taking down notes, ¡°I¡¯ll bring this information to his Grace and magister Cromwell and see how they want to proceed. I¡¯ll let you know what they say.¡±

    Halligan nodded as he picked up his notes. The thought of the monster being tied to this made him nervous, but if he could find proof, then maybe the Duke couldn¡¯t ignore it. It¡¯s a shame that Maelon had to die though. He passed the librarian¡¯s desk, a young man with a stout belly stood at it. It had been a month since Ema was last seen, and chances are she was dead, and they¡¯d never know what happened to her. He turned towards the door and felt something run into him.

    ¡°Lady Priscilla,¡± Halligan said helping the girl to her feet, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t see you.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my fault for not paying attention,¡± Priscilla said giving him a sad smile. Her eyes were bloodshot and puffy, and her nose was a bright red.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I haven¡¯t had time to spend with you my lady,¡± Halligan kneeled to look her in the eye.

    Priscilla nodded as cleared her throat, ¡°You¡¯re trying to find my brother¡¯s killer,¡± she said with a steely gaze, ¡°Have you¡­made any progress?¡±

    ¡°Some, Elizar is giving our report to the Duke,¡±

    ¡°May I ask you what you found?¡± She stared at him with glistening wide eyes.

    Halligan¡¯s heart throbbed, and he leaned in close to her ear, ¡°We think it¡¯s tied to the person whose been committing murders around the city,¡± he whispered, ¡°And we think this person is somehow tied to Bartholomew Decker.¡±

    ¡°What¡­does Decker have to do with this?¡± she clung tightly to his arm.

    ¡°We¡¯re not sure,¡± Halligan gently touched her hand, but her scared look made him worried, ¡°What¡¯s wrong, my lady?¡±

    Priscilla quickly looked around before dragging him over to a secluded aisle within the bookshelves. She peeked at the librarian who was nodding off.

    Priscilla whispered to him, ¡°I think the Deckers are criminals,¡±

    ¡°What makes you think that?¡± Halligan kept his voice quiet.

    ¡°It¡¯s the way I hear people talk about them,¡± she leaned in closer, ¡°I often hear conversations I¡¯m supposed to because people think I¡¯m not in the area,¡± Halligan clenched his fist in frustration, ¡°Lately, I¡¯ve heard people talking about an auction taking place, and Bartholomew¡¯s name was used several times. Their tone makes it sound¡­sinister.¡±

    ¡°Do you know when this auction is?¡±

    ¡°In a few days,¡± She said with a hard glare, ¡°At a place they call the fairgrounds. I¡¯m having my handmaid figure out where that is.¡±

    Halligan took her hand, ¡°You need to stay out of this my lady,¡± he said looking her in the eye, ¡°It¡¯s dangerous.¡±

    Fury lit Priscilla¡¯s eyes, ¡°They may have been responsible for my brother¡¯s murder,¡± she snapped.

    ¡°If they are, then I¡¯ll bring them to justice,¡± Halligan gently rubbed the back of her hand, ¡°Please, leave this to me.¡± Priscilla¡¯s eyes grew watery as she nodded, ¡°Thank you, I promise that I¡¯ll avenge Sir Maelon.¡±

    Priscilla tightly embraced him, ¡°Thank you.¡±

 The Auction

    Meridith stared at the black, red, and gold mask in her hand. The full mask had no expression which made it come off as mysterious and unsettling. She glanced over at Mina. Illusion magic made her hair look like pitch darkness, absorbing all the light that struck it leaving a white outline. Her modest ivory dress shimmered with gems, and she admired the white mask in her hands. Oria¡¯s hair shined like the golden sun, and her revealing blue dress was laced with pearls. She played with her blue and gold mask. Meridith played with a lock of her own hair, and she admired the illusion that made it look like flame. Her black and red dress completely covered her, and black silk gloves covered her hands.

    The carriage shook as it took a corner and Reviled growled as his head hit the roof. Despite the large ornate wagon, Reviled sat hunched over. He used illusion magic to hide in the shadows of his cloak with his red eyes being the only thing piercing the darkness.

    Mina chuckled as Reviled shifted in the plush seat, ¡°Does our pain amuse you?¡±

    ¡°Forgive me master,¡± Mina smiled sweetly, ¡°But I don¡¯t think carriages suit you well.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Reviled laughed along, ¡°But we can¡¯t just walk to the theater, can we.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Oria said, ¡°I don¡¯t even want to image the ruckus you¡¯d cause.¡±

    ¡°Speaking of ruckus, will Andren be ready?¡±

    ¡°Yes boss,¡± Oria smiled viciously.

    ¡°Good,¡± the carriage rocked to a halt, ¡°Let¡¯s go ladies.¡±

    The carriage door opened. The lanky Emmett stood by the door wearing a well-tailored suit. The women placed on their masks and filed outside. Emmett gave Mina and Oria a cheeky smile as he gave them a quick glance over, but when Meridith stepped out, he lowered his gaze in respect. Meridith gently touched his cheek in thanks as she joined the other women. The carriage shifted as Reviled stepped out. An elderly looking man wearing a masquerade mask approached them with his arms outstretched. A group of women wearing black dresses with veils over their faces followed behind them.

    ¡°Oria, you look lovely,¡± he said taking her hands, ¡°The illusion magic is a nice touch.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Wilfried,¡± Oria chuckled, gesturing to the wagon behind the carriage, ¡°We¡¯ve brought the merchandise.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Wilfried laughed, and his gaze fell onto Reviled. He bowed low to the monster, ¡°It¡¯s an honor to finally make your acquaintance. My name is Wilfried.¡±

    ¡°You may call us Master Legion,¡± Reviled said approaching, ¡°Shall we get the merchandise inside.¡±

    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right,¡± Wilfried said, calling to his workers. They started unloading the wagon under the gaze of Oria¡¯s men, ¡°I would like my associates to look over the items first,¡± Wilfried gestured to the women, ¡°They¡¯re skills in identifying magic items will assure that you receive the greatest value for them.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you hired witches,¡± Reviled nodded in approval, ¡°By all means, let us appraise these items.¡±

    Kogna left the wagon and joined them. His hair matched Mina¡¯s, and his white, red, and gold brigandine matched his sword scabbard. One of the witches fell to the back to talk with him.

    The workers popped open the crates and laid the contents onto a series of long tables. The witches ran their hands over each piece as they mumbled under their breath, then they wrote the appropriate value on the parchment under the item. Reviled, Wilfried, and Oria stood to the side as they prepared for the auction, but Meridith stood by herself, her gaze lingering on the door.

    ¡°Poor dear,¡± Meridith jumped and turned to the old, blind woman standing behind her, ¡°I sense¡­such pain coming from you.¡±

    ¡°Who are you?¡±

    The woman¡¯s cackle turned to a cough, ¡°An associate of dear Wilfried,¡± she said, ¡°He hired me and my granddaughters for the appraisal.¡±

    ¡°Well then, I should leave you to your work,¡± Meridith turned to leave.

    ¡°Using magic is difficult, isn¡¯t it,¡± the witch playfully tapped her cane against the floor. Meridith stopped and quickly turned back to her, ¡°You¡¯re not the first woman to try her hand at wizardry. The problem is¡­women don¡¯t have the skills to understand it.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Men like order, they like understanding,¡± the woman scoffed, ¡°They want every little thing to fit in its proper place, that¡¯s why they¡¯re good at building things¡­and destroying them,¡± she released a wheezing laugh, ¡°Women however, we desire beauty, passion. We want the world to conform to our desires, not the other way around. We don¡¯t care for logic, and who cares if things aren¡¯t in their proper place,¡± Bright blue flames danced around them, taking on the form of flowers and small animals.

    Meridith stood transfixed, ¡°Is this¡­¡±

    ¡°Witchcraft, yes,¡± the witch smiled proudly, ¡°If wizardry is a science, then witchcraft is art. If we want our flames to be blue, then they¡¯re blue, or maybe a lovely green,¡± the flames changed to a deep green, ¡°Or maybe even¡­a passionate pink,¡± the woman sighed nibbling on her fingers. The flames turned to a deep pink that pulsed every few seconds, ¡°Forgive me dear, I¡­was remembering a lovely memory.¡± Meridith chuckled. ¡°I hope you understand, for us witches, imagination is the source of our power, not logic. After all, wizards are the least imaginative people in the world, that¡¯s why all their spells look the same.¡±

    ¡°What is that about our spells,¡± Reviled scoffed as it stood over them.

    The witch gawked at the monster, her lower lip trembling in fear, ¡°What are you,¡± she gasped clutching her heart, ¡°You are no avatar, and yet¡­Elithis¡¯ favor surrounds you. Why?¡±

    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t it,¡± Reviled chuckled as it leaned over the witch, ¡°What kind of mother would withhold her favor from her child.¡±

    ¡°Master, please, you¡¯re scaring her,¡± Meridith said turning to the woman, ¡°Would you be kind enough to teach me your craft?¡±

    The woman¡¯s glassy eyes flicked between Meridith and Reviled, and she swallowed hard, ¡°Of course,¡± she laughed nervously, ¡°I¡¯d be a fool to turn down the servant of someone so¡­powerful.¡±

    ¡°Congratulations,¡± Reviled placed a caring hand on Meridith¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°Thank you,¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan shifted the black velvet mask so that it felt more comfortable on his face. He wasn¡¯t used to wearing such rich clothing, nor was he used to the suffocating green ascot around his neck. Elizar sat across from him wearing ornate dark blue and silver robes with a high collar cape. His silver owl mask adorned his face. The silence weighed heavily on Halligan.

    ¡°How come no one told me the Deckers were criminals?¡± Halligan sighed.

    ¡°Please understand, the Deckers have been a pillar of Jericho for decades,¡± Elizar said fixing his cuffs, ¡°Their support has been instrumental to keeping the city running, especially during this time of war.¡±

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Sir Halligan,¡± Elizar snapped, ¡°Right now, we need to focus on this mission. It¡¯s important that we find something that connects the Deckers to Sir Maelon¡¯s murder. Afterwords, you can discuss with the Duke the morality of his actions.¡± Halligan nodded.

    The carriage came to a stop, and the footman opened the door. They stood outside the theater. The light shining from the windows made it look like a majestic palace, which was enhanced by the richly dressed individuals that entered it. The inside of the theater portrayed great wealth. Three golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling with candles lighting up the room. A thick, red velvet carpet ran along the floor to two double doors, and up the two sets of stairs to the second floor.

    The patrons were scattered around the foyer, each wearing a mask, some full while others covered the eyes, that matched their outfits. The women playfully waved their fans as they engaged in small talk, while the men bellowed out fake laughs. A shrill ring of a bell quieted everyone down, and everyone looked at the elderly looking man standing on the second floor.

    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen,¡± the man smiled at the gathered crowd, ¡°Thank you all for coming tonight,¡± The crowd clapped then fell silent, ¡°Tonight, I have procured an excellent selection for you all. Treasures that¡¯ll make your collections the greatest in the city¡­if you can afford them,¡± Everyone chuckled. Halligan tried to ignore the gnawing itch coming from his gauntlet, ¡°But before we start tonight¡¯s events, I would like to thank tonight¡¯s benefactor. The one who gathered these delectable items, Master Legion!¡±

    A magical light shone revealing a box sitting on the third floor. Four individuals stood there looking down upon the gathered crowd. Three women waved down at the crowd. They each wore full masks that matched their dresses, and their hair was clearly enchanted with magic. At the center was a tall imposing figure in a long-hooded cloak. Despite the light shining on them, it was impossible to see the face hiding in the darkness. The only feature that could be seen were the piercing red eyes. The crowd enthusiastically cheered their hosts, but Halligan couldn¡¯t take his eyes off tall figure and the woman in black with hair enchanted to look like fire.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    ¡°So, the rumors are true.¡±

    ¡°They must be the ones opposing the King¡±

    ¡°At least he keeps¡­fine company.¡±

    Elizar scratched his chin, ¡°Interesting, the cloaked figure is a powerful spell caster,¡±

    ¡°How can you tell?¡± Halligan focused his gaze to the two red eyes.

    ¡°The mana fueling their illusion magic is coming from him,¡± Elizar said, ¡°And he¡¯s shrouding himself in illusion magic too.¡±

    ¡°Can you sense necrotic mana?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s too far,¡± Elizar sighed, ¡°At this distance, all I can see is the flow of mana.¡±

    Halligan sighed, but then someone bumped into him. ¡°Sorry,¡± he heard as a flash of golden hair flew past him. He quickly glanced at two women who disappeared into the crowd.

    ¡°Now then ladies and gentlemen,¡± the elderly host called, ¡°Let the auction begin!¡±

    The doors on the ground floor flew open, and four servants warmly gestured for the crowd to enter the main hall. Halligan rolled his shoulders as he followed the crowd inside.

    <hr>

    Priscilla glared as the workers set up the next item on stage. It took two people to carry the large rectangular blade and set it properly onto the stand. A gorgeous woman stood next to the sword, running her hands sensually along the blade.

    ¡°Our next item is the monstrous cleaver, wielded by the hulking corpse ragers,¡± the auctioneer called out, ¡°A terrifying abomination in the Wight King¡¯s army. One of these monsters can destroy an entire battalion by itself, and it is said that it takes ten paladins to destroy one. We¡¯ll start the bidding at six hundred gold.¡±

    ¡°625!¡±

    ¡°650!¡±

    ¡°750!¡±

    Priscilla sneered as the people jumped to their feet to call out their bids. Even to her, the amounts being shouted boggled her mind. She bit the thumb of her glove to stop herself from berating everyone.

    ¡°Should we leave my lady,¡± her attendant glanced down at her.

    ¡°No Lana,¡± Priscilla took a calming breath before looking at the box on the second floor. Four people sat there watching the auction, ¡°I want to speak with our illustrious host.¡±

    Lana sighed, ¡°Why couldn¡¯t we leave this to Sir Halligan?¡± The auctioneer slammed his gavel onto the podium, and the stage workers changed out the item, an intricate war scythe with an obsidian black blade.

    ¡°Next, we have a war scythe from a pale rider,¡± the crowd excitedly murmured, ¡°These ghostly Calvary soldiers have decimated thousands with these weapons. It¡¯s said that they¡¯re sharp enough to cut your very soul. We¡¯re starting off at seven hundred.¡±

    ¡°Because¡­I''m tired of doing nothing,¡± Priscilla straightened her dress, ¡°We should probably make a few bids so we can blend in.¡±

    Lana nodded with a mischievous smile, ¡°One thousand!¡± Priscilla stared dumbfounded at her maid.

    ¡°One thousand gold. Do I hear eleven hundred?¡± the auctioneer smiled, ¡°Going once¡­going twice¡­¡±

    ¡°Eleven hundred!¡±

    Priscilla sighed in relief before glaring at her servant, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you!¡±

    ¡°You said we needed to make some bids,¡± Lana shrugged with a small smile, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we make it look like we¡¯re meaning to buy something.¡±

    The scythe was removed for a full suit of black armor that belonged to a lich-knight. ¡°Bidding to start at fifteen hundred!¡±

    ¡°Two thousand!¡± Lana raised her hand.

    ¡°Stop that!¡± Prisicilla growled.

    ¡°Two thousand-one hundred,¡± Prisicilla relaxed in her chair.

    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t make such faces, my lady,¡± Lana said with a sly smile, ¡°You¡¯ll start developing wrinkles.¡±

    ¡°You keep making ridiculous bid!¡± Priscilla whispered, ¡°What am I supposed to do if we actually win something?¡±

    ¡°Well, wouldn¡¯t that get us closer to our goal,¡± Lana¡¯s eyes glanced upward to the enchanted group.

    ¡°Do I hear twenty-three hundred?¡±

    Priscilla stood up, ¡°Three thousand!¡±

    ¡°Sold!¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled chuckled as the bidding went on below them. The lich-knight¡¯s armor had sold for three thousand gold. A sum that only a small number of the aristocracy could pay.

    ¡°Damn, she wanted that armor,¡± Oria laughed as the armor was taken off stage.

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Reviled¡¯s gaze fell to the winners, ¡°Be a dear, Oria, and have Wilfried set up a meeting with those two.¡±

    ¡°Sure thing, boss,¡±

    Mina leaned over the side, ¡°I can¡¯t believe they¡¯re willing to pay all that money for a few items,¡±

    ¡°Because my dear, they have more money than sense,¡± Reviled said petting her head, ¡°That¡¯s one of the reasons why we hosted this auction, and we¡¯re quite pleased that it¡¯s paying off.¡±

    ¡°But why not use this equipment on the undead,¡± Kogna said from the shadows. His hand never left his sword.

    ¡°We¡¯ve tried, but the cursed gear sends them into a frenzy,¡± Reviled growled. The gavel rang signaling another item sold, ¡°Without the Tome of Elithis, we won¡¯t be able to properly use enhanced undead.¡± They sat in silence as several more items were sold.

    ¡°I estimate our income to be around fifteen thousand gold,¡± Meridith smiled, ¡°A decent profit wouldn¡¯t you say?¡± Oria slipped back into the box.

    ¡°The money is a bonus,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°It¡¯s what come later that we¡¯re looking forward to.¡±

    ¡°Wilfried has a suite ready, boss,¡±

    Reviled rose, ¡°Then let¡¯s go meet with our new friends,¡±

    Oria led them down the hall to the back of the theater. Multiple rooms that acted as changing rooms for the thespians lined both sides, and an attendant stood outside of one. He opened the door for them. It was a simple room with two couches facing each other with a sitting table in between them.

    ¡°Your guests will be here shortly,¡± the attendant bowed before closing the door.

    Reviled sat in the center with Meridith and Oria on either side. Kogna stood to the side of the couch closest to the door while Mina carried a tray over and kneeled at the table ready to pour drinks. There was a knock at the door, and two women wearing half masks entered shortly after. One wasn¡¯t really a woman. The girl with golden hair in a bun couldn¡¯t be more than thirteen, and from the way she stood, with her hand clasped in front of her with her back straight, was clearly nobility. The second woman followed the girl with her gaze held slightly downward. The girl adjusted her frilly white and rose-colored dress as she sat down as the servant stood side.

    ¡°Would you care for a drink, my lady?¡± Mina gestured to the tray on the table.

    ¡°No thank you,¡± the girl kept her eyes on Reviled, ¡°I thank you for taking the time to meet me, master Legion,¡± she said with a quick bob of her head.

    ¡°We felt we had to, after that¡­passionate bid,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°However, you have us at a disadvantage miss¡­¡±

    ¡°You may call me¡­Princess,¡±

    Reviled nodded, ¡°A fitting alias,¡± it said, ¡°But we must admit, we weren¡¯t expecting you to be so young.¡±

    Princess huffed, ¡°Does my age bother you?¡± she challenged with a glare.

    ¡°Yes, it does,¡± Reviled growled, ¡°We are not on the best terms with the king of this city, and the last thing we need is for more attention to be drawn to us,¡± He turned to the warrior, ¡°Please see to the lady¡¯s safety.¡±

    ¡°Yes master,¡±

    ¡°You needn¡¯t worry about my safety,¡± Princess said, but faint screams drew their attention to the door.

    ¡°Took them longer than expected,¡± Reviled said standing up, ¡°The auction is under attack. I suggest you head to your carriage as soon as possible.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s attacking?¡± Princess covered her mouth.

    ¡°Most likely Decker,¡± Reviled chuckled which caused Princess to look worried at him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry my dear, my guard¡¯s skills rivals those of Solomon.¡±

    Kogna bowed to the little girl, ¡°My lady, please follow me,¡± Princess nodded, glancing at Reviled on last time before heading out.

    ¡°Things are starting to get interesting,¡± Reviled chuckled when the door closed.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Meridith sounded worried.

    ¡°You¡¯re smart,¡± Reviled said rubbing her back, ¡°When you take in all that we know of her, who do you think she is?¡±

    Meridith tapped her mask, ¡°From the bid, she must be nobility, or from an extremely wealthy family,¡± she said, ¡°Most likely nobility from the alias, but I doubt she¡¯s royalty. No, is she¡­the Duke¡¯s daughter!¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s what we believe,¡± Reviled stepped towards the door, ¡°It¡¯s time to leave.¡±

    Reviled led the group down the halls to the theater¡¯s backstage. Oria¡¯s men were standing over a group of rough looking bodies in torn tunics with a bull and hammer on the shoulder. Upon seeing Reviled and the women, they followed as he reached the safe room. Wilfried was trying to quickly divvy up the coins they had collected from the auction into two bags.

    Wilfried sighed in relief when he saw the group, ¡°Thank Hallomarae,¡± he said turning back to the table, ¡°I¡¯m nearly done splitting the profits. Damn it, I didn¡¯t think Decker would have Samon attack. He hasn¡¯t been proactive lately, but I guess he¡¯s getting desperate.¡±

    ¡°Understandable,¡± Reviled stepped behind Wilfried. Reviled¡¯s tongue shot out and pierced Wilfried¡¯s head. Before the body fell, Reviled decapitated the bookkeeper. ¡°Take everything of value, and let¡¯s get out of here.¡± It stuffed the head into a bag.

    <hr>

    Priscilla followed the swordsman down the halls. He moved at a pace that was urgent but was easy for her to keep. They turned a corner and a thug stared at them down the hall. The ruffian charged at them, yelling with his club held high. Priscilla screamed and buried her face into Lana¡¯s skirt. She heard a sword be drawn from it¡¯s sheath, and the thug¡¯s yells fell silent.

    ¡°My lady, we must keep going,¡± Priscilla opened her eyes. The thug lay on the ground with his head sitting a few feet from his body. Blood pulled and seeped into the carpet. The warrior sheathed his sword, ¡°Come my lady. Stick close and keep to the right. We wouldn¡¯t want your dress to get dirty.¡±

    Priscilla nodded. The swordsman continued down the hall with his hand sitting ready on his hilt. The sounds of fighting and screams of terror were getting louder. They turned to the right, away from the chaos, and out a door that led them to the outside. Footmen and drivers ran around in terror as they tried to find their carriage.

    ¡°That one!¡± Lana pointed to a simple green painted carriage. The coachmen and footman waved them down. The footman threw the door open and helped Lana inside.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Priscilla turned to the warrior.

    She couldn¡¯t see the warrior¡¯s face, but his voice was gentle, ¡°It was an honor to be your guard my lady,¡± Shouts drew their attention as ten thugs charged towards them. ¡°Quickly, my lady, you must leave,¡± he pushed Priscilla inside, ¡°I¡¯ll deal with them.¡±

    Before Priscilla could argue, the Warrior shut the door. The coachman cracked the reins and steered the horses away. Priscilla leaned out the window to look back on the Warrior. She had seen sword fighting before. She watched her brothers fight, she watched Sir Halligan fight, but their way with the sword couldn¡¯t match the mysterious warrior. He glided through the fight, striking down each assailant with ease. It was beautiful, in a strange, disturbing way, and watching him fight made her chest tighten.

    <hr>

    Halligan leaned against the wall panting heavily. Elizar fell to his knees and was leaning against the same wall. They could still hear the screams coming from the theater, and thankfully, the guards that were there were able to keep the attackers at bay. As they were running to the carriages, they had seen a masked warrior fight, and easily dispatch ten of the thugs that were trying to keep the carriages from fleeing. Unfortunately, theirs was nowhere to be found.

    ¡°I guess the rumors are true,¡± Elizar panted holding his chest, ¡°Decker is at war with this Legion gang.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Those thugs, they were wearing Blackhammer¡¯s crest,¡± Elizar took a few deep breaths, ¡°Strange though, they normally have it tattooed on their body, not stitched into their clothing.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s Blackhammer?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s Decker¡¯s enforcer. He normally is stationed in the slums, but sometimes he¡¯ll hire out his men as mercenary guards. Still, Decker¡¯s gone too far this time. There were many influential people at that auction, and they won¡¯t take this lightly. We should get back to the castle and let magister Cromwell know about this.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled led its group through the sewers. The filthy tunnels would destroy the nice clothing that everyone was wearing, but that didn¡¯t matter. Mak and Lyle, the strongest of Oria¡¯s men, carried the bag containing the money they had made from the auction. Despite the fighting, everyone was in a great mood. A rat faced man with long greasy black hair leaned against the wall.

    ¡°How¡¯d everything go?¡± Andren said.

    ¡°According to plan,¡± Reviled chuckled handing him a bag full of coins.

    Andren opened the purse and counted the coins, ¡°I¡¯m glad to have been of service,¡± he gave a toothy smile, ¡°Anything else you need, boss?¡±

    Reviled handed Andren a piece of parchment and the bag containing Wilfried¡¯s head, ¡°Yes, we need you to get Samon to attack one of the rat camps here in the sewers.¡±

 Preparations for Tomorrow

    Magister Cromwell scribbled his signature on the petitions for conscripting more soldiers for the war. He then set the parchment on the pile of approved requests before pulling the next one. This one was from Sir Halligan and Elizar to request aid from the paladins of the Church. Cromwell rubbed at the dark bags under his eyes. He desperately wanted to assist in the investigation of Sir Maelon¡¯s death, but he needed to run the city while the Duke managed the province. What¡¯s worse, the Duke needed to prepare his second son to take the duchy. Phineas, the Duke¡¯s second son, was an excellent knight and competent commander, but he wasn¡¯t a politician. Phineas¡¯ blunt, straightforward approach turned off many of the aristocracy. This would cause strife that the duchy didn¡¯t need right now. With a sigh, Cromwell signed the request and added it to the approved pile.

    A knock came at the door, ¡°What,¡± Cromwell growled.

    An attendant stepped inside, ¡°Sir, lady Meridith is here to see you.¡±

    Cromwell sighed rubbing his face, ¡°Show her in,¡±

    He plastered on a tired smile as he rose from his seat. Lady Meridith stepped inside wearing a green dress that showed no skin, and velvet gloves to match. Her attendants followed right behind her with small frowns.

    Meridith smiled at him, ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again magister Cromwell,¡±

    ¡°Likewise, my lady,¡± Cromwell took her hands, but she flinched and pulled them away, ¡°Have I offended you?¡±

    ¡°N-no¡­it¡¯s simply¡­¡± Tears started leaking down her face.

    Kogna stepped forward and whispered into Cromwell¡¯s ear, ¡°My lady was assaulted a month back. She¡¯s still dealing with the trauma.¡±

    Cromwell gasped looking at Meridith being comforted by her other attendant, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, my dear,¡± he said pulling out a handkerchief, ¡°Is there anything I can do?¡±

    ¡°Thank you for your concern,¡± Meridith took the cloth and dabbed her eyes, ¡°But the scum was dealt with.¡±

    ¡°Painfully, I hope,¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Meridith gave a sad smile, ¡°However, that¡¯s not why I need to speak with you,¡± Cromwell gestured to the sofas, ¡°This information is for you alone sir,¡± she looked to the attendant.

    ¡°Go fetch some refreshments,¡± Cromwell ordered the attendant out of the room. When the door closed, he sat across from Meridith, ¡°This must be important.¡±

    ¡°Have you heard about the attack on the theater last night,¡±

    ¡°I have,¡± Cromwell rubbed his face, ¡°I¡¯ve been dealing with it all morning.¡±

    ¡°Were you aware that lady Priscilla was there,¡± Cromwell groaned at the revelation, ¡°My master was concerned how his Grace would react, since he was the one who set the event up. He also wanted to apologize for putting her ladyship in danger, so he¡¯s offering seven gold bars as reparations.¡±

    Cromwell smiled warmly at her, ¡°We need more members like your master,¡± she said, ¡°I shall let his Grace know about the incident last night, and about your master¡¯s generous gift. Believe me when I say that the Duke won¡¯t take any actions against your master.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s wonderful,¡± Meridith clasped her hands together, ¡°Does her ladyship not have a personal knight?¡±

    ¡°Sir Halligan was filling the role, but he¡¯s been busy as of late,¡± Cromwell sighed.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry sir, but that is unacceptable,¡± Meridith scoffed, ¡°Thankfully, my maser recognized her, and had Kogna protect her,¡± She gestured to the Amu¡¯Ryjin warrior, ¡°She needs a trustworthy protector, and no offense to Sir Halligan, one that can always be by her side at all times. My master would like Kogna to take the position. He is a skilled fighter on par with the greatest knights.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll bring it up with his Grace,¡± Cromwell said eyeing Kogna, ¡°However, he may ask for a demonstration. Would that be an issue.¡±

    ¡°No sir,¡± Kogna bowed, ¡°It would be an honor to prove my skills.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s another thing I would like to ask,¡± Meridith cleared her throat, ¡°May I have an audience with lady Priscilla. I¡­worry she doesn¡¯t understand what she¡¯s getting into.¡± She dabbed her eyes.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    <hr>

    Priscilla sat in the tearoom sipping her morning tea. Her mother sat across from her, staring out the window. The dark circles wouldn¡¯t leave from under the Duchess¡¯ bloodshot eyes, and it made Priscilla sigh heavily. Ever since Maelon died, her parents increased the amount of time they spent with their children. Poor Phineas was spending all his time by their father¡¯s side learning to rule, and he absolutely hated it.

    ¡°How are your studies with Sir Halligan coming along,¡± her mother smiled setting down her cup.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t had lessons with him since¡­the incident,¡± Priscilla took a sip.

    The Duchess nodded fingering her cup, ¡°That¡¯s a shame,¡± she sighed, ¡°Are you still wanting to pursue him?¡±

    Priscilla twirled her hair, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t mind it,¡± she smiled sadly, ¡°But I don¡¯t think he sees me as a woman.¡±

    ¡°Dear,¡±

    A knock came from the door, and an attendant stepped in, ¡°My lady Rosalynn, his Grace wishes to see you,¡±

    The duchess sighed and rose from her seat, ¡°We¡¯ll talk about this later,¡± Rosalynn kissed her daughter¡¯s forehead.

    ¡°Lady Priscilla, there¡¯s someone here to see you as well.¡±

    Priscilla rose to her feet and followed the attendant with Lana following closely behind. She was led to one of the sitting rooms where a woman with red hair waited with two Amu¡¯Ryjin servants. Priscilla¡¯s eyes fell to the swordsman. Something about him felt familiar, but she couldn¡¯t figure out why.

    ¡°Thank you for seeing me,¡± the red-headed woman curtsied while her servants bowed, ¡°My name is Meridith, and these are my attendants Hykaru Mina, and her brother Kogna.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I kept you waiting,¡± Priscilla smiled sitting across from her. The attendant left, leaving them alone.

    ¡°Truthfully, I¡¯m glad you made it our of the auction,¡± Meridith smiled.

    A chill ran down Priscilla¡¯s spine as she stared at the group in fear, ¡°I-I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡± Meridith chuckled which made Priscilla frown.

    ¡°My lady, you don¡¯t need to be worried,¡± Meridith said, ¡°I¡¯m here to check on your well-being. Kogna said that you made it out safely, but I wanted to be sure.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the swordsman from last night!¡± Priscilla gasped, staring at Kogna. She squeaked when she realized her mistake.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    ¡°Yes, my lady,¡±

    ¡°So, are you here to collect your money?¡± Priscilla smoothed her dress and stared imperiously at Meridith.

    ¡°No, my lady,¡± Meridith said, ¡°My master suspected you were after something else. In fact, he wishes to speak with you.¡±

    Priscilla cocked an eyebrow as Meridith placed her hand on the table, and a black rat materialized. Priscilla gasped and jumped back into the sofa, but Lana placed a hand on her shoulder.

    ¡°It¡¯s a familiar, my lady,¡± Lana said trying to comfort her, ¡°This Master Legion is a mage.¡±

    The rat bowed it¡¯s head, ¡°We¡¯re glad to see that you are safe,¡± Legion¡¯s voice came from the rat

    Priscilla covered her mouth with a gentle cough, ¡°Yes, your swordsman was an excellent bodyguard,¡± she said with a small smile.

    ¡°That pleases us,¡± Legion chuckled looking at Kogna, ¡°We¡¯re glad we recruited him.¡±

    ¡°Are you here to blackmail me,¡± Priscilla clenched her fists, ¡°You should know, I won¡¯t¡­bend to your will easily.¡± She bit her lower lip.

    ¡°Child,¡± the rat crossed the table until it sat right in front of her, ¡°You aren¡¯t ready to play this game. Truthfully, if it was anyone else, you¡¯d be trapped. We, however, aren¡¯t like that.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve already told magister Cromwell about last night,¡± Meridith said.

    Priscilla blushed as she looked at the rat, ¡°I see,¡±

    ¡°Child, why were you at the auction last night?¡± Legion¡¯s rat tilted its head.

    ¡°I was investigating Bartholomew Decker,¡± Priscilla said, avoiding the rat¡¯s gaze, ¡°I thought he was the one behind the auction. I¡­thought you were tied to him in some way.¡±

    ¡°We are,¡±

    Priscilla gawked at Legion, ¡°How,¡± she leaned forward, ¡°Is he your rival? Was he responsible for my brother¡¯s murder?¡±

    ¡°Yes, the Decker¡¯s did play a part in your brother''s death,¡±

    The knowledge hit Priscilla hard, and she covered her face. She sat there for a few moments, trying to fight back the tears. After a few deep breaths, she looked back at the rat.

    ¡°What can you tell me about the role they played in his death,¡±

    ¡°Why,¡±

    Fire burned in her eyes, ¡°I want to bring Bartholomew Decker down,¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± Legion bowed, ¡°Allow us to be the sword that brings justice to Decker.¡±

    <hr>

    Samon slammed the mug onto the bar and growled at the prostitute to refill his drink. The small shack that was acting as his headquarters was completely silent. His men were scattered across the slums. His reputation was in the gutters, and the respect his men had for him was practically gone. The damn Legion had brought him down.

    The door to the shack creaked open, and Andren sauntered towards the bar. He sat next to Samon and gestured for a mug of his own. The ugly prostitute smiled at Andren as she slid the mug to him.

    ¡°What do you want?¡± Samon spat on the floor.

    ¡°Sire is giving you another chance to redeem yourself,¡± Andren sipped his drink as he leered at the woman, ¡°The Legion has kidnapped Taela, and he wants to get her back.¡±

    Samon perked up, ¡°How in the Dead Prison did they do that?¡±

    ¡°Baron pissed off their boss,¡± Andren growled, ¡°And he failed to get her back himself. So, he¡¯s wanting you to do it,¡± Andren slid a piece of paper to him, ¡°I had my men scour the city, and they think she might be here.¡±

    Samon took the map and studied it, ¡°How did they find her?¡±

    ¡°There¡¯ve been changes going on in the sewers since the Legion conscripted the wererats,¡± Andren leaned in, ¡°I¡¯ve been having my boys map out these changes, and they found one camp that seemed out of place. It had skeletons guarding it,¡± He took a deep drink, ¡°When the Legion attacked Reina, she mentioned that the leader used necromancy to create a monster.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Samon nodded.

    ¡°Also, and you didn¡¯t hear this from me,¡± Andren smiled, ¡°Reina doesn¡¯t know that her niece was kidnapped by the Legion, and that Decker¡¯s been doing everything to keep her in the dark. If you were to save her¡­¡±

    ¡°She¡¯d be in my favor,¡± Samon¡¯s smile turned vicious, ¡°And her support could get me back into Decker¡¯s good graces.¡± He turned to Andren, ¡°I¡¯ll go get her myself.¡±

    Andren finished his mug and rose to his feet, ¡°Good luck,¡±

    <hr>

    Bartholomew sat at his desk working when the door to his office burst open. Reina stormed in and slammed her hands on to his desk glaring at him.

    ¡°Where is Taela!¡± Reina snarled.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Bartholomew took a deep breath, gently clasping his hands, ¡°She¡¯s probably dealing with my useless son.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me!¡± Reina spat, ¡°No one has seen her in weeks, not even your own staff. I was hoping that you would tell me, but I¡¯m tired of waiting,¡± she crossed her arms, ¡°Now where is she?¡±

    Bartholomew stared at her unfazed, ¡°I genuinely don¡¯t know,¡± he said keeping his voice calm, ¡°When I do see her again, I¡¯ll let you know.¡±

    Fear filled Reina¡¯s voice, ¡°Does¡­ the monster have her?¡± Bartholomew simple stared back, ¡°Oh Virtues¡­¡± Reina covered her mouth, ¡°What¡­ does it want?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m working on getting her back,¡± Bartholomew sighed deeply, ¡°Once Andren has found something, I¡¯ll let you know.¡±

    ¡°Dammit Bartholomew, why didn¡¯t you deal with this monster sooner!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m dealing with it now,¡±

    Reina leaned into Bartholomew¡¯s face, ¡°I¡¯m not making any of my payments until my niece is safe,¡± she smiled wickedly, ¡°So you better find her quickly.¡± She turned around and stormed out.

    The door slammed shut behind her, and Bartholomew clenched his fist, ¡°Damn monster.¡± He growled.

    <hr>

    Halligan wiped the sweat from his face. The training grounds were full of soldiers performing evening drills after their guard shifts. Sir Phineas stood in the center of the sparring ring fighting against three other soldiers. Halligan couldn¡¯t help but admire his skill.

    Phineas effortlessly parried each strike and retaliated with quick, successive attacks of his own. Each one a killing blow. Phineas started instructing them on how to better their forms and went back to training with them. Again, he easily blocked each attack and landed killing blows, and corrected their mistakes. This cycle repeated a few more times, and each time the young soldiers were a little bit better.

    ¡°He¡¯s nearly as good as Sir Solomon,¡± Halligan sighed as he looked at the welts on his shoulder, chest, and legs. They too were given to him by Sir Phineas.

    ¡°Your Grace!¡±

    Halligan¡¯s attention was drawn to the commotion coming from the castle. The Duke, his wife, daughter, and Cromwell approached the training ground with an Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman following behind them. A chill ran down Halligan¡¯s spine. He could tell the foreign warrior was skilled. His eyes took in the surroundings, aware of every possible threat in the vicinity. Despite the robes, Halligan could see the readied stance the Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman had.

    ¡°Phineas,¡± the Duke waved to his son.

    ¡°Father,¡± Phineas bowed slightly but his eyes never left the Amu¡¯Ryjin, ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡±

    ¡°This here is master Kogna,¡± Cromwell gestured to the warrior as he bowed to Phineas, ¡°He¡¯s an attendant to a staunch supporter of his Grace, and they requested that he be lady Priscilla¡¯s personal knight.¡± Murmuring filled the air.

    ¡°I want you to test his skills,¡± the Duke said.

    ¡°Understood father,¡± Phineas said taking his place on the field.

    ¡°Is there any conditions you wish to impose, my lord?¡± Kogna bowed to the Duke.

    ¡°No, fight with all that you have,¡±

    ¡°As you wish. May I have a piece of rope?¡± the Duke nodded, and a trainee brought him a rope. Kogna tied his sword to his scabbard and took a readied stance, ¡°Forgive me, my lord, but your practice swords don¡¯t fit my style well.¡±

    ¡°I understand Kogna,¡±

    ¡°Fight,¡± the Duke signaled.

    Halligan gasped. Phineas charged forward and struck out, but Kogna fluidly blocked the first strike and retaliated. Phineas stepped out of range, his eyes wide in shock as he rubbed his nose. The Duke¡¯s heir smiled and took his sword in both hands. Everyone started gathering around to watch the fighting. Phineas remained on the attack, striking Kogna and testing the Amu¡¯Ryjin¡¯s defenses. Kogna expertly parried each strike and retaliated with his own, but none seemed to have any power behind them.

    ¡°When are you going to start fighting?¡± Phineas growled.

    Kogna smiled viciously, ¡°Now,¡±

    Kogna punched Phineas, and a gust of air pushed the Duke¡¯s son back. Kogna struck out three times, each sending a blast of air that struck Phineas, opening his guard. Kogna jumped forward and stabbed Phineas¡¯ stomach, but the noble rolled to the side. Before Phineas could recover, Kogna struck his neck, but Phineas brought his sword up to block it. Kogna slipped his weapon underneath Phineas¡¯ and with a flick of his wrist sent Phineas¡¯ sword into the air.

    Phineas held up both hands, ¡°I yield,¡± The gathered crowd gawked as Kogna helped Phineas up, ¡°You weren¡¯t giving it your all.¡±

    ¡°My apologies, my lord,¡± Kogna bowed, ¡°But I didn¡¯t want others to get hurt.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Phineas turned to his father and nodded.

    The Duke approached with his daughter, ¡°Hear me,¡± the Duke quieted the crowd, ¡°As of now, Sir Kogna will be my daughter¡¯s personal knight,¡± he turned to Halligan, ¡°This will allow you to focus on the investigation.¡±

    ¡°Of course, your Grace,¡± Halligan bowed, ¡°It was an honor to serve you, lady Priscilla, even if it was for a short time.¡±

    ¡°You will still have a place at the castle, and once your investigation is over, you¡¯ll be allowed to return to her service,¡± the Duke said leaning closer, ¡°There was an incident last night, and I need someone who can keep an eye on her.¡±

    Halligan nodded as the Duke stepped away, ¡°Sir Kogna, I¡¯ll have the servants prepare a room close to my daughters. Is there anything you¡¯ll need to gather from your previous residence?¡±

    ¡°There are a few things, my lord,¡±

    ¡°Cromwell, see to it his effects are brought here,¡± Cromwell bowed as the Duke left.

    Halligan felt someone touch his arm, and Priscilla stared at him seriously, ¡°Sir Halligan, I have some information that might be of use to you.¡±

    ¡°You do?¡±

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s about my brother¡¯s murder,¡± She leaned in and whispered, ¡°And the monster.¡±

 All Hail the King Pt.1

    Samon led his group of ten men through the dark sewers. He once commanded hundreds of thugs, but now, he was left to rely on these ten men. These were the only ones he could trust to get this job done. His men kept their weapons drawn as they kept watch for threats. They came up to an intersection, and Samon held up his hand as he checked around it. As Andren mentioned, a rickety walled camp sat a few dozen feet down the tunnel with no signs of life.

    ¡°Alright boys,¡± Samon waved his men forward, ¡°According to Andren, Taela should be in there somewhere, and we¡¯re getting her out,¡± He drew his war hammer, ¡°We charge in, bust down the wall, and kill everything that isn¡¯t her.¡±

    The men nodded and readied themselves. With a feral scream, Samon led the charge. He slammed his hammer against the wall, and it tore free, leaving a hole large enough for them to fit through. Inside, a dozen skeletons shambled around with swords and shields. Before the undead could react, Samon and his men pulverized their bones to dust, leaving the eleven men left in the camp.

    ¡°Is that it?¡± one of the thugs scratched his head.

    Samon growled, not liking the outcome, ¡°Search the camp, but don¡¯t let your guard down,¡±

    The camp wasn¡¯t that large. It was only twenty feet in diameter, and there sat five worn tents. Several of his men kicked at the skeletal remains, but nothing happened, and five of his men went to search the tents.

    ¡°This one¡¯s empty.¡±

    ¡°So is this one.¡±

    ¡°Same.¡±

    ¡°I found her!¡±

    Samon ran towards the second tent to the right. Inside, Taela cowered in a ragged dress that barely covered her, and her hands and feet were bound in rope. Her greasy brown hair clung to her face. Her lips were cracked and stained with blood, and dark bags hung under her eyes. Cuts and bruises ran along her feet and legs caused by the stone walkways. She was no longer the cool beauty that served Baron, but a rather frightened girl.

    ¡°Taela,¡± Samon stepped into the tent.

    Taela flinched and held her hands up, ¡°Don¡¯t hurt me, please!¡±

    ¡°Get a hold of yourself girl,¡± Samon growled picking her up, ¡°It¡¯s me, Samon.¡±

    Taela cautiously glanced at him, ¡°Samon¡­why are you here?¡±

    ¡°To save you,¡± Samon snapped, ¡°Now let¡¯s get out of here.¡±

    Taela screamed as Samon threw her over his shoulder. She buried her face into his shoulder, and her nails dug into his skin. Samon growled at the pain but continued to push forward with his men behind them. The last thing he needed was for that Amu¡¯Ryjin swordsman to show up, and as he turned a corner, he failed to see the black rat sitting in the shadows.

    It didn¡¯t take long for them to make their way out of the sewers and back to the small shack. He unceremoniously sat Taela down in one of the chairs as he dropped his hammer to the floor. Reina¡¯s niece looked worse in the bright light of the day than she did down in the sewers, and the poor girl wouldn¡¯t stop shivering as she tried covering her exposed skin with her arms. The prostitute manning the bar ran up to her with a mug of water.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the Legion¡¯s boss, Taela?¡± Samon kneeled to look her in the eye.

    ¡°I¡­I don¡¯t know,¡± Taela wiped her face, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him since I was kidnapped.¡±

    ¡°Come on Taela, you were in his camp. You must know something.¡±

    ¡°I was in that fucking camp for weeks,¡± Taela snarled, ¡°That monster only came around to give me food. So, no, I don¡¯t know where he is!¡±

    ¡°Damn it,¡± Samon snapped kicking a table over, ¡°I was hoping I could take him out,¡± He scratched at his shaved head, ¡°At least I¡¯ll have your aunt on my side.¡±

    ¡°D-did she know about my kidnapping?¡±

    ¡°No, Decker kept it to himself,¡± Samon said with a small smile, ¡°So, he¡¯ll have a lot to explain¡­¡±

    His words were cut off as the door to the shack opened. A group of guards stepped inside with an elderly mage and a young man with curly red hair. The soldiers had their hands on their weapons as they eyed the thugs.

    ¡°Who are you?¡± Samon growled stepping towards his hammer.

    ¡°Samon Blackhammer,¡± the young man said, ¡°You¡¯re under arrest for attacking the theater the other night.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about,¡± Samon spat as he grabbed onto his hammer¡¯s shaft, ¡°I didn¡¯t attack the theater.¡±

    ¡°Men wearing the crest of your gang attacked the theater,¡± the elderly mage snapped, ¡°Several high-ranking members of the city were hurt, and lady Priscilla herself was placed in harms way,¡± his gaze fell to Taela, ¡°And now it looks like we caught you in the middle of a kidnapping.¡±This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t-¡±

    ¡°Help me please!¡± Taela shouted with tears running down her cheeks. Samon stared at her in disbelief, ¡°This man kidnapped me from my aunt, and then he and his men forced themselves on me!¡±

    ¡°We did no such thing!¡± Samon yelled at Taela, ¡°Stop lying.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± the prostitute held Taela glaring at Samon, ¡°I saw the whole thing. This poor girl¡­what they did to her was despicable!¡±

    Samon heard swords being drawn, and he turned to see the guard pointing their swords at him. His men drew their own weapons nervously looking between Samon and the guards.

    ¡°Samon Blackhammer,¡± the mage snapped, ¡°His Grace has overlooked your activities because of your association with Bartholomew Decker, but not anymore. For your heinous crimes, you¡¯ll be brought before the judges and punished for your wrong doings.¡±

    ¡°Come peacefully,¡± the red-headed man said.

    Samon¡¯s knuckles turned white as they gripped his weapon¡¯s shaft. It was a setup. With an angry roar, he picked up his hammer and swung it towards the women. The black hammer bounced off a magical barrier that surrounded the girls, and Samon turned his feral gaze onto the mage.

    The fighting was chaotic. Despite having the superior numbers, Samon¡¯s men were outmatched by the guards who were better trained and equipped. One by one, Samon¡¯s thugs were cut down, their blood seeping into the wooden floors, but that fueled Samon forward. His hammer slammed into the chest of a guard, crushing the bones and organ underneath, and Samon used the momentum to destroy another guard¡¯s head. Cuts ran along Samon¡¯s arms as side as they continued to surround him. With a snarl, Samon brought the hammer down on the red-headed swordsman, but he dodged out of the way. Samon grunted as pain shot through his chest and warmth ran down his front. The swordsman¡¯s blade pierced Samon¡¯s chest, and the large man fell to his knees.

    ¡°Damn¡­you¡­¡± Samon¡¯s words were cut short by the whistling blade.

    <hr>

    Halligan stared down at Samon¡¯s headless body. Thirteen men lay dead at their feet, two of them belonged to the guards. Slowly, he let his gaze linger on the two women cowering behind Elizar¡¯s magic shield. The mage dispelled the magic with a wave of his hand, and Halligan gently approached them.

    ¡°You two are safe now,¡± Halligan said kneeling in front of them.

    ¡°T-thank you,¡± Taela cried into the prostitute¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Can¡­I go home now?¡±

    Elizar threw his cloak around Taela¡¯s shoulders, ¡°We have a few questions first, then we¡¯ll have a carriage take you home.¡±

    ¡°Did Samon meet with anyone strange?¡± Halligan said gently.

    ¡°Not¡­that I can think of,¡± Taela stuttered as she wiped her face, ¡°Sometime a hooded figure would come in delivering messages. I think they were from his boss.¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± the prostitute nodded, ¡°Samon didn¡¯t seem happy whenever he got them, but he wouldn¡¯t act out in front of this person.¡±

    ¡°Did you ever see his face?¡± Elizar said scratching his chin. Both women shook their heads.

    ¡°So, you wouldn¡¯t be able to tell us more about this person,¡± Halligan sighed as he turned to the guards, ¡°Have a carriage brought immediately for these two.¡±

    A guard saluted and ran out of the tavern. A carriage appeared after a few hours and the women rode down the street. Halligan watched the carriage disappear.

    ¡°Sir, we can¡¯t find any evidence on this mysterious person.¡± A guard said.

    ¡°What should we do now Elizar?¡± Halligan turned to the mage.

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing we can do for now,¡± Elizar sighed, ¡°We should keep an eye on Bartholomew Decker until something does happen.¡±

    <hr>

    Taela held herself as the carriage rocked down the road. The prostitute that was at Samon¡¯s bar held onto her, and Taela was thankful for the contact. She could still hear the monster¡¯s commands. It dragged her to that camp, and kept her there until Samon came for her, and then when the guards arrived, she got them to attack Samon. The slave crest branded on her right breast burned, an ever-present reminder.

    ¡°Y-you did well,¡± Taela whispered to the prostitute.

    ¡°Andren told me what to do,¡± she said petting her, ¡°He said that it would free me from Samon and help lady Reina.¡±

    Taela simply nodded, ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡±

    ¡°Wenny,¡±

    Taela groaned as the crest pulsed, ¡°T-thank you Wenny.¡±

    The two women sat there until the carriage came to a stop. The door flew open and Baron stormed in. He panted heavily and his eyes never left Taela.

    ¡°Thank Shecoga, your back,¡± Baron embraced her.

    Taela buried her face into his shoulder, ¡°It¡¯s good to be back,¡± she cried.

    The two of them sat there, enjoying each other¡¯s embrace. Then a knock came from the driver, and they all left the carriage. The entire manor staff swarmed Taela, hugging her and crying alongside them. For a moment, the nightmare that she had been living was far away.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad your back,¡± Charolette hugged her, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯ve been spoiling master Baron while you were away.¡¯

    Taela chuckled, ¡°That¡¯s fine, I have to punish him for all the shit he put me through,¡± the surrounding staff laughed.

    ¡°Taela,¡± Bartholomew¡¯s powerful voice echoed through the foyer. He calmly approached and warmly embraced her, ¡°Thank the Virtue¡¯s your back.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for being a bother,¡±

    Bartholomew kissed her forehead, ¡°My dear, you are never a bother,¡± he quickly glared at Baron, ¡°However, I need to speak with you. I hope you understand.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir,¡±

    Baron smiled and led her back to his office with Baron behind them. Andren stood in the office with a bag sitting on Decker¡¯s desk. Bartholomew took a seat at his desk.

    ¡°I can¡¯t believe Samon would turn on me,¡± Bartholomew sighed shaking his head, ¡°And to think he would help the Legion kidnap Taela.¡¯

    ¡°It is disturbing,¡± Andren shook his head, ¡°And then Wilfried helped the Legion sell contraband.¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me this before it happened?¡± Bartholomew growled.

    ¡°That¡¯s my fault Sire,¡± Andren bowed, ¡°When I heard about it, I tried to cause a rift between the Legion and Samon. That¡¯s why I tried framing Samon for the attack, but¡­¡± He pulled out Wilfried¡¯s head from the bag.

    ¡°Shit,¡± Baron sighed.

    ¡°There tearing us apart on piece at a time,¡± Bartholomew rubbed his face in frustration, ¡°Have the Legion returned to their tavern.¡±

    ¡°No sir,¡± Andren sighed, ¡°There have been no signs of activity in their tavern.¡±

    ¡°Then find them,¡± Andren nodded and left the room. Bartholomew turned back to Taela, ¡°Will you be coming back to service?¡±

    ¡°I-I¡¯d like to take some time off,¡± Taela shook, ¡°Maybe spend some time with my aunt.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Bartholomew smiled at her, ¡°Feel free to get cleaned up, and I¡¯ll have a carriage waiting for you when you¡¯re ready.¡±

    Taela bowed, ¡°Thank you, sir,¡± She silently left the room.

    Bartholomew turned to his son, ¡°That¡¯s how you get things done boy,¡± he sighed, ¡°If Andren hadn¡¯t found the connection between Samon and the Legion, then we¡¯d never would have gotten her back.¡±

    ¡°I get it old man,¡± Baron scoffed.

    Bartholomew glared at him, ¡°Good, now leave,¡± he said pulling out a stack of papers, ¡°Now that Samon¡¯s dead, I have even more work to do.¡±

 All Hail the King Pt.2

    Halligan stepped into the small tavern tucked into a corner of the upper city. A few of the wealthy citizens sat at the tables enjoying their afternoon meals. A minstrel sat on the stage playing a lyre which filled the room with a soothing ambience. The bartender noticed him and gestured to a booth nestled in a back corner of the tavern. Halligan nodded and made his way to the booth. Baron sat on one end with his head in his hands and a near-empty mug in front of him.

    Baron raised his head and gave Halligan a sad smile, ¡°Thanks for meeting with me, Sir Halligan,¡± he said.

    ¡°Your message made it sounded urgent master Baron,¡± Halligan said taking a seat, ¡°But there¡¯s something else that needs to be addressed,¡± Baron looked at him in confusion, ¡°Your family''s criminal activities.¡±

    ¡°You found out about that,¡± Baron sighed heavily, ¡°That¡¯ll make this conversation easier then.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean,¡±

    Baron quickly scanned the room before leaning in closer, ¡°I fear my father has lost his mind,¡± he whispered, ¡°He was not happy when you rescued Taela from Samon, and now I fear he may be acting against the Duke and his family.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean,¡± Halligan sneered, ¡°Why would your father be mad about us saving a girl, and why would he be after the Duke?¡±

    ¡°The Tome of Elithis was in my father¡¯s possession,¡± Baron hissed, ¡°I stole it from his vault, but was afraid to give it directly to the Church. So, when I saw Solomon arrive, I thought I could help you find it. My father had Taela kidnapped as a way of punishing me. As for the Duke, he tried to get the nobility to go after one of his rivals, but it didn¡¯t work.¡±

    ¡°So you are linked to the monster,¡±

    ¡°Three years ago, a necromancer met with my father,¡± Baron shook his head, ¡°He said he could use the tome to create a soldier like no one had seen before. I told my father he shouldn¡¯t do it, but I think the book was starting to corrupt him.¡±

    ¡°Why would your father want this monster,¡± Halligan scratched his head.

    ¡°You saw it right?¡± Halligan nodded and Baron chuckled, ¡°Then why wouldn¡¯t he. Imagine if he had an entire army of them, then no one could oppose him. Truthfully, I think he was afraid of losing his power, and didn¡¯t want to rely on people.¡± Baron sighed, ¡°However, he hasn¡¯t called on it lately. Without the tome, I doubt he can properly control it.¡±

    ¡°Do you know where it is?¡±

    Baron shook his head, ¡°If I did, I would tell you, but my father is constantly having it move.¡±

    "I understand,¡± Halligan nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll speak with the Duke and see what to do next,¡± he stood up and patted Baron¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Thanks for telling me.¡±

    <hr>

    Taela stared at the basket across from her. A bottle of fine wine sat on a plush pillow with laced ribbons decorating the basket. A letter leaned against the wine with the Decker¡¯s seal stamped in the wax. Taela couldn¡¯t take her eyes from the liquid sloshing in the dark bottle with a freshly waxed seal. The carriage rocked to a halt, and she slowly exited the carriage with her package.

    The beautiful, whitewashed building of the Rose Garden greeted her. It¡¯s vibrant flowers adorning the windows and entrance welcomed her, and the rich mahogany door with golden decorations shaped like voluptuous women beckoned to her. With a trembling lip and tears streaming down her eyes, Taela stepped into the brothel. The sweet scent of cinnamon embraced her as she stepped into the foyer.

    ¡°Welcome,¡± a prostitute stepped into the foyer and gasped. Taela gave her a shy smile, and was quickly embraced by the prostitute, ¡°Taela, you¡¯re safe!¡±

    The commotion caused more women to come into the foyer, and they warmly greeted her. Taela laughed and cried as each woman hugged her, and for a moment she was happy.

    ¡°Taela!¡± Reina ran down the stairs and embraced her, ¡°You¡¯re back, thank the Virtues your back,¡± she cried into Taela¡¯s hair.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Taela embraced her aunt and buried her face into her bosom. The two held each other crying. As they pulled away, Reina kissed Taela¡¯s head.

    ¡°I¡¯m so glad you¡¯re safe,¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ sorry auntie,¡± Taela wiped at her eyes, ¡°I¡¯m sorry I made you worry.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Reina dragged her niece upstairs, ¡°Come, lets get you taken care of.¡± Reina brought Taela upstairs into her common room and took the basket from her and set it on the table. ¡°Did the monster do anything to you?¡±

    ¡°I-it¡­humiliated¡­¡± Taela broke into tears and hugged her aunt.

    Reina gently brushed Taela¡¯s hair and whispered, ¡°You¡¯re safe now, I¡¯m not letting anything happen to you again,¡± she lifted Taela¡¯s face, ¡°Why don¡¯t we take a bath and talk about the future.¡± Taela nodded with a smile.

    Reina and Taela entered the large bath connected to the common room. The warm water had scented oils and herbs floating in the water, and the two women stripped out of their clothes.

    ¡°Taela¡­what¡¯s that?¡± Reina gestured to the slave crest.

    Taela covered it up and looked at the ground, ¡°Sire¡­ didn¡¯t want me to openly talk about the monster.¡±

    ¡°That bastard!¡± Reina snarled, ¡°Don¡¯t worry Taela, I¡¯ll find someone who can remove that crest.¡±

    Taela nodded as she followed her aunt to the bath. They both sighed in relief as they dropped into the water. Taela enjoyed the silence and let the warmth seep into her.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s time you left the Decker¡¯s service,¡± Reina said with a small smile, ¡°You need to start planning for the future.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure,¡± Taela ran her hand through her hair, ¡°Baron needs me.¡±

    ¡°Taela,¡± Reina held Taela¡¯s face and spoke sternly, ¡°You need to think about yourself, and at this point, I don¡¯t think the Deckers will be around much longer. I think it¡¯s time we distance ourselves from them.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reina sighed heavily, ¡°I think it¡¯s safe to say that the monster will win this war. We need to be proactive so we can secure our place without Decker¡¯s power. That way, if the monster comes for us, we have something to negotiate with.¡±

    Taela nodded, ¡°What do you have in mind?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m going to take complete control over the city¡¯s prostitution industry,¡± Reina gave her a toothy smile, ¡°No more independents, they either work for me or they don¡¯t work at all,¡± her laughter filled the room, ¡°My second brothel in the lower city is nearing completion. I¡¯ll speak with Samon about securing guards and having the independent prostitutes rounded up.¡±

    ¡°Samon¡¯s dead,¡±

    ¡°Shit!¡± Reina snarled, her fists splashed into the water, ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to rely on my own men. I have a few that I can trust with this project, but Samon¡¯s reputation would have been a big help.¡± She lifted a leg out of the water and watch the droplets run down her calf, ¡°Did you learn anything while you were captured?¡±

    Taela nodded and sank into the water, ¡°Yes,¡± she gave her aunt a scared look, ¡°We should leave it¡¯s followers alone, especially the women. It has a possessive nature, and it almost seems like it sees its followers as extensions of itself.¡±

    ¡°Sounds like a man,¡± Reina scoffed, ¡°But you¡¯re right. We should avoid angering it for now. Maybe, we should let the Church know about it, and Decker¡¯s possession of the tome.¡± She smiled deviously.

    ¡°That may be for the best,¡± Taela nodded.

    Reina stepped out of the bath and dried herself with a perfumed towel. Taela followed her into the common room while securing the sash of her robe. Reina sneered as she picked up the bottle and letter from Decker.

    ¡°Does he think I can be bought so easily,¡± Reina scoffed, tossing the letter back into the basket, ¡°Even if it is my favorite vintage.¡± Taela hugged herself as she watched her aunt open the bottle and pour two glasses and handed her one. ¡°Cheers,¡± Reina smiled taking a sip. Her face scrunched in disgust, ¡°Damn bastard sent a bad bottle!¡±

    Reina took Taela¡¯s glass before she could drink and slammed both onto the table. She stumbled towards the couch and sweat poured down her face. Foam formed at the edges of her mouth as her eyes started to glaze over. Reina fell with the next step, her breath fast and shallow.

    Taela kneeled next to her aunt, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she whispered, brushing the hair away. ¡°That¡­ damn monster,¡± tears dropped onto Reina¡¯s face, ¡°It made me do this.¡± Reina¡¯s breathing stopped as she cried in pain.

    Footsteps pounded outside the room, and the prostitutes stormed in, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°Madame Reina!¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡±

    The bartender placed a hand on Taela¡¯s shoulder, ¡°He¡­he poisoned the wine,¡± Taela wiped away the tears, ¡°I couldn¡¯t go against him.¡± She opened her robe to show them the crest, ¡°I¡¯m sorry Katrina.¡±

    Katrina picked up the letter, ¡°This is Decker¡¯s doing?¡± Taela nodded.

    ¡°But why?¡±

    ¡°I doesn¡¯t make sense?¡±

    Katrina snapped, ¡°Madame Reina and Decker were arguing as of late,¡± she said holding Taela, ¡°Apparently, their relationship was strained to the point that he felt it would be easier to kill her, and have Taela take over. Am I right?¡±

    Taela nodded, ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°Then we can¡¯t support Decker anymore!¡± the prostitutes snarled at the letter, ¡°We can¡¯t let him get away with this.¡±

    Katrina tapped her chin, ¡°We can¡¯t go against him. We¡¯re not powerful enough,¡± she said pursing her lips.

    ¡°W-we know¡­ who can,¡± Taela sniffled.

    ¡°The Legion,¡± Katrina sighed and grabbed a key from Reina¡¯s desk, ¡°I¡¯ll withdraw some money from the vault, and go make an offering to the Legion.¡± She turned to the others, ¡°After we take care of Madame Reina.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled sat in the darkness. All it could remember from its birth was pain and harrowing screams, but there was one thing that stood out.

    My sweet child. Come to me.

    Reviled release a low growl, ¡°Just a little longer mother,¡± it said, ¡°Soon, you¡¯ll be free from Decker.¡±

 All Hail the King Pt.3

    Katrina stared up at the sign hanging above her. It depicted a red-headed woman in a black dress hugging a long sword. With a deep breath, Katrina stepped into the tavern. It was well cleaned, but there was a strange atmosphere in the room. A few people gathered around the bar, they were mostly thugs, but there were two women standing behind the bar.

    ¡°Well, what do we have here?¡± one of the thugs turned to look at her.

    The motherly blonde woman smiled at her, ¡°It¡¯s been a while Katrina,¡± Ada said, ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°Honestly, not well,¡±

    ¡°You know this woman, miss Ada?¡± another thug looked surprised.

    ¡°I used to work in one of Madame Reina¡¯s smaller brothels,¡± Ada said with a sad smile, ¡°Mistress Katrina would check on us regularly.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to drop in unannounced,¡± Katrina bowed, ¡°I¡¯m here to see your boss.¡±

    Ada sighed, ¡°Master Legion is downstairs being entertained. I¡¯ll take you to him.¡±

    Katrina followed Ada downstairs. When she heard that the Legion¡¯s boss was being entertained, she hadn¡¯t expected the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman simply be playing for him. The song was beautiful, and it hung in the back of her mind, easing her worry and stress. Ada kneeled in front of a curtained box and Katrina kneeled next to her.

    ¡°And who do we have here,¡± a growling chuckle came from behind the curtains.

    ¡°It is an honor to be in your presence master Legion,¡± Katrina bowed her head, ¡°I¡­ come bearing a message from Madame Taela. She wishes to pledge her fealty to you.¡±

    ¡°We thought Reina was in charge?¡±

    ¡°Madame Reina¡­is dead,¡± Katrina tried keeping her voice calm, ¡°Her niece has taken over.¡±

    ¡°And does Taela think we¡¯ll accept her without contribution?¡± master Legion laughed.

    ¡°O-of course not,¡± Katrina pulled out a coin purse, ¡°This purse contains fifty gold bullions¡­ and we¡¯re willing to offer more as tribute.¡±

    Ada took the purse and spread out the contents in front of the box. Fifty small golden blocks glistened in the lamp light. Katrina kept her head down, hoping that it would hide the sweat on her forehead.

    ¡°We accept your tribute,¡± Katrina sighed and raised her head, ¡°However, we have an initiation for those who wish to join us.¡±

    Katrina looked at the box in confusion, and Ada pulled up her dress to show a slave crest branded on her upper right thigh. Katrina looked at the box in horror.

    ¡°I-it was you!¡±

    The curtains pulled back as a clawed foot stepped out, ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± the monster chuckled as it stared down at her, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll see to it that Decker pays for Reina¡¯s death.¡±

    Katrina watched in fear as the claw approached. It slipped past her and a clawed finger rested on the nape of her neck. Pain shot through her as she screamed, and tears ran down her face. When the pain stopped, Katrina fell onto the ground, silently sobbing.

    ¡°Tell Taela to be ready soon,¡± the monster stepped back into it¡¯s booth, ¡°Decker¡¯s reign is over, and it¡¯s time for ours to begin.¡±

    Katrina bit her lip, trying to keep the words from leaving her mouth, ¡°Y-yes¡­master,¡±

    <hr>

    Bartholomew stepped into the large office where the Duke was waiting for him. He cleared his throat and tightened his tie under the noble¡¯s stern gaze. Magister Cromwell stood behind the Duke glaring at Bartholomew as well.

    ¡°How may I be of service, your Grace,¡± Bartholomew bowed.

    The Duke gestured to the chair, ¡°I¡¯ve been hearing disturbing reports lately,¡± he said staring daggers at Deckers, ¡°Reports concerning you. Is there anything you want to tell me?¡±

    Bartholomew sat down confused, ¡°What kind of reports? I¡¯ll need some more information first.¡±

    ¡°Were you in possession of the Tome of Elithis?¡±

    Bartholomew stared dumbfounded, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about,¡± he gently folded his hands, ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware that the Tome of Elithis had appeared.¡±

    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying you didn¡¯t hire a necromancer to use the tome to create a monster,¡± The Duke sneered, ¡°And that you had this monster killing for you.¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± Bartholomew snapped, ¡°And I find these accusations insulting!¡±

    ¡°Regardless, I have to take these reports seriously,¡± the Duke said, ¡°And truthfully, I feel you¡¯ve abused the freedoms that I¡¯ve given you. That¡¯s going to be ending today.¡±

    ¡°Have I not been a staunch supporter,¡± Bartholomew took a calming breath, ¡°What would cause this distrust?¡±

    ¡°Your attack on the theater a few days ago may have something to do with that,¡± Cromwell said.

    Decker glared at Cromwell, ¡°I didn¡¯t have anyone attack the theater,¡±

    ¡°Samon¡¯s one of your associates, and his men attacked the theater!¡± Cromwell said, ¡°Are you telling us you didn¡¯t send his men to attack it?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± Bartholomew clenched his fist trying keep his cool, ¡°I¡¯ve ceased associating with Samon some time ago.¡±

    ¡°How convenient,¡± the Duke smirked, ¡°Regardless, I¡¯ve overlooked your criminal activity for the last time,¡± he slid over a piece of parchment, ¡°You¡¯ll be expected to pay a fine.¡±

    Bartholomew looked at the paper and his eyes widen in shocked, ¡°You expect me to pay this!¡± he snarled.

    ¡°You should be expected to pay your dues,¡± the Duke smiled viciously, ¡°And we¡¯ll be getting our pound of flesh. You have three days to get everything together.¡±

    Bartholomew growled as the Duke waved him away, and he stormed out of the room with the paper crumpled in his fist. He saw red as he made his way out of the castle and jumped into his carriage.

    ¡°Take me to the Rose Garden!¡±

    The carriage shook as it moved down the street. He uncrumpled the note and sneered down at the fine. There was no way he could pay for this in three days. He¡¯d have to sell nearly all his assets to pay two-thirds of the fine. Bartholomew growled at the thought of going to others for help, but he needs to. Hopefully, Reina would assist now that Taela was back.

    Bartholomew rested his head against the seat and took several deep breaths. He was able to calm down by the time the carriage stopped in front of the brothel. He took a minute to fix his suit and plucked a rose from the bush before he stepped inside. Bartholomew waited at the podium in the foyer with a slight smile, but it faded as no one came out. He tapped his fingers against the wood, and finally stepped into the bar, but there was no one there.

    ¡°Is anyone here?¡± Bartholomew called out.

    ¡°Everyone¡¯s out at the moment,¡± He turned to see Taela enter the bar. Her hair was done up in a bun with a black veil covering the right side of her face, and her simple black dress felt out of place.

    ¡°I see,¡± Bartholomew sighed taking a seat at the bar, ¡°Is Reina here?¡±This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Taela¡¯s lower lip quivered, ¡°No, she¡¯s not.¡±

    ¡°When will she be back, I need to speak with her.¡±

    Taela poured two drinks and slid one over, ¡°Aunt Reina isn¡¯t coming back sir,¡± she downed her drink in a single gulp.

    ¡°I don¡¯t¡­ no,¡± Bartholomew gasped taking in her full appearance, ¡°Who killed her?¡±

    ¡°You did,¡±

    A shiver shot down Bartholomew¡¯s spine. He turned to see a black rat with red eyes sitting on the bar. Its nose twitched in a way that he could only think of as malicious glee. Slowly it crawled closer and sat on its haunches.

    ¡°W-would you care for a drink¡­ master?¡± Taela cleared her throat trying to keep herself from crying.

    ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary,¡± the rat continued to look up at Decker.

    Bartholomew gazes flicked between Taela and the rat, ¡°Why? Why would you do this!¡± he slammed his fist onto the bar. Taela looked down in sorrow.

    ¡°Don¡¯t blame her,¡± Reviled growled drawing Bartholomew¡¯s attention, ¡°Truthfully, she¡¯s the victim. The victim of your hubris and your son¡¯s foolishness.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything!¡±

    Reviled¡¯s cackle caused goosebumps to form on his arms, ¡°It¡¯s because of you that we exist,¡± the rat¡¯s eyes gleamed with excitement, ¡°You know the danger the necronomicons pose, so why didn¡¯t you give it away? Did it make you feel power?¡±

    ¡°Of course it did,¡± Bartholomew snapped, ¡°I was able to do something that only the Church claimed they could do. It¡¯s because of me that Elithis is trapped in her damned prison, so why should I be afraid of her. Why should anyone be afraid of the Dead Gods when all it takes to keep them locked up is to hide their books away.¡±

    ¡°Then why did you try using it?¡±

    ¡°To show the Dead Gods their place,¡± Bartholomew said with a dark smile, ¡°Without us, they¡¯re nothing. They need us to open their prison. They need us to be their avatars. And so, the power to keep them locked up is with us!¡±

    ¡°Poor Decker,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°How wrong you are,¡± Bartholomew stared at the rat in confusion, but realization soon followed, ¡°Do you think the Dead Gods are isolated from each other? That with their books locked away they are helpless. No, they can still operate in the shadows. After all, necrotic mana come from the Dead Prison.¡±

    ¡°No¡­¡±

    ¡°Elithis has been playing you from the beginning,¡± Reviled said proudly, ¡°She has been patient. She waited for another avatar, she waited until Melgareth would seek her out, and she waited for you to give in to your pride,¡± Bartholomew¡¯s stomach twisted into a knot, ¡°Now do you understand why we say it¡¯s your fault.¡±

    A twisted smile came to Bartholomew¡¯s lips, ¡°There¡¯s still one last thing I can do,¡± he ran out of the brothel as Reviled laughed at him. He jumped into the carriage, ¡°Back to the manor, now!¡±

    Bartholomew glared out the window as the carriage sped through the streets. When the carriage came to a halt, he jumped out of it and ran into the manor. The doors slammed opened and his shoes squeaked on the tile floor, but he stopped in the foyer.

    ¡°Davus!¡± he called out. There was no response, ¡°Davus, where are you?¡± the heavy silence made his shoulder tense, ¡°Damn it, someone answer me.¡±

    ¡°I let everyone have the day off old man,¡± Baron stepped out of the dinning room with a bottle of wine in one hand and a rapier in the other, ¡°It¡¯s just us.¡±

    ¡°What do you¡­¡± Bartholomew glared at his son, ¡°Dammit, so the monster got to you too.¡±

    ¡°Yep,¡± Baron sighed with a sad smile, ¡°We both let our pride lead us to our downfall.¡± He took a deep drink from the bottle before pointing his sword at Bartholomew.

    Bartholomew ran to the side, trying to get into one of the rooms. Baron followed and stabbed at his father, but Bartholomew ducked out of the way. Bartholomew pushed into the room and groaned. The library was the worst place to be, but he grabbed a thick book from the shelf and faced his son.

    Bartholomew blocked several stabs, thankful that the leather and wood blocked the strikes. Bartholomew slapped away another strike and stepped forward, punching his son in the face. Baron stumbled to the side but brought his sword up and slashed his father¡¯s cheek as he ran past. Bartholomew ran up the stairs with Baron closely behind him, and he turned towards his armory. Bartholomew threw the door open and found himself pushed back as something slammed into his chest. He screamed in pain as blood seep down his chest. Charolette stood over him with a bloody flail in her hands.

    ¡°Damn,¡± Bartholomew coughed.

    ¡°You look to be in trouble sir,¡± Bartholomew turned to the side and watched Andren approach.

    ¡°Help, Andren,¡± Bartholomew struggled to get to his feet.

    Andren shook his head and juggled a coin purse, ¡°Sorry Decker, but I found a new boss,¡±

    Bartholomew growled at the rogue, but a flash of grey drew his attention, ¡°I told you pops,¡± Baron sighed, ¡°You should have left the tome alone.¡±

    ¡°Fuck-¡± Baron shove his blade into Bartholomew¡¯s neck. Slowly, his vision faded as the blood poured down his neck.

    <hr>

    Baron watched as life left his father¡¯s eyes. He wiped his blade clean and threw the rag onto the corpse.

    ¡°Goodbye old man,¡± Baron raised the bottle and took a drink.

    ¡°Well, my work¡¯s done,¡± Andren put away his purse.

    Baron chuckled as he watched the rogue leave, ¡°You¡¯re not going to stay?¡±

    ¡°Do you know when a ship is sinking?" Andren gave them a toothy smile, ¡°When the rats start to flee. This damned city is sinking, and I¡¯m not staying to go down with it.¡±

    ¡°Where are you going to go?¡±

    ¡°Not telling,¡± Andren laughed, ¡°I¡¯m getting out of here today, and I¡¯m taking Winny with me,¡± he waved at them, ¡°Bye Baron, hope the monster doesn¡¯t tear you apart.¡±

    Baron watched as Andren disappeared then looked to his father. He grabbed the vault key from Bartholomew¡¯s pocket and stashed it away.

    ¡°I better get him into the garden,¡± Baron said with a slight waver, ¡°He¡¯ll have to go next to Davus.¡±

    ¡°I can help you sir, then I¡¯ll clean up the blood,¡± Charolette touched his arm.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Baron took hold of her hand, ¡°We better hurry, the monster will be here tonight.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled couldn¡¯t remember if it ever felt excited. It had memories from the souls inhabiting its core, but it had never felt anxious itself. Clearly the women riding alongside it could tell. Meridith and Mina were smiling genuinely at it while Oria had a more mischievous smile. Taela was the only one not smiling.

    ¡°We¡¯re almost there, master,¡± Mina chuckled.

    ¡°We¡¯ve come a long way haven¡¯t we,¡± Meridith said with a small smile, ¡°I¡­ didn¡¯t think I¡¯d get to see this.¡± She petted Cappy who sat on her lap.

    ¡°Why are you so excited?¡± Cappy stared confused at it, ¡°Is it your birthday, Big Meanie!¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Reviled scoffed, but couldn¡¯t find the energy to be frustrated, ¡°After three years, we finally get to speak with our mother again.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s sweet,¡± Cappy cooed.

    ¡°I¡­ thought you were made by a necromancer?¡± Taela swallowed, nervously looking at Reviled.

    ¡°Melgareth made us, but Elithis brought us to life,¡± The carriage came to a halt, ¡°Finally.¡±

    They stepped out of the carriage. Emmett helped the women down and then stepped out of Reviled¡¯s way. The women fell in step behind Reviled as it approached and entered the mansion. Baron and a beautiful blonde woman stood waiting for them.

    ¡°Welcome master,¡± Baron bowed while the maid curtsied.

    Reviled threw off the cloak and stared at the maid, ¡°Who is this?¡±

    Charolette stood up and courageous approached the monster, ¡°I am Charolette, master Reviled,¡± she opened the front of her dress showing off her cleavage, ¡°If you would allow it, I would like to serve both you and master Decker.¡±

    Reviled pressed a claw against her plump flesh, ¡°Impressive,¡± it said as the magic branded the crest into her skin. Charolette released a small groan, but showed no signs of pain, ¡°You¡¯ve been holding out on us Baron,¡± it chuckled as she closed her dress, ¡°You can continue to serve Baron, dear.¡±

    Charolette curtsied with a warm smile, ¡°Thank you master.¡±

    ¡°Where is the tome?¡± Reviled turned its gaze to Baron.

    ¡°Down in the vault. Please follow me.¡±

    Baron and Charolette led them into kitchen and down a set of stairs into the basement. It was mostly filled with food with multiple wine racks sitting along the wall. Baron slid one rack to the side to reveal a wooden door that sat behind it. He unlocked the door and entered the empty room with a single steel door.

    ¡°I have the key, but I wasn¡¯t able to get the code from my father,¡± Baron bowed offering the key, ¡°Forgive my incompetence.¡±

    ¡°We won¡¯t need it,¡±

    Reviled placed a claw on the door. The locks magically opened with a loud clank, but then it was followed by an explosion. Bright light shone through the seams in the door, and it was followed by smoke. Meridith, Mina, and Oria gasped while looking worriedly at Reviled, but the monster casually opened the vault. All that was left were piles of ash.

    ¡°I apologize master,¡± Baron said, his mouth tilted in a slight smile, ¡°I hadn¡¯t realized my father placed destruction seals in the vault. He clearly didn¡¯t want anyone taking his prized possessions.¡±

    Reviled stepped into the vault and calmly looked around. Eventually, its gaze landed on a pile sitting in the center of the vault. Its claws dug into the ash, and it pulled out a leather book with an ivory ant motif on the cover. Baron stared in horror as Reviled brushed off the ash.

    ¡°Did you think a simple spell could destroy a necronomicon,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°You should have consulted a mage if you wanted to destroy it,¡± Baron clutched at his chest and screamed in pain. Taela and Charolette held him, ¡°Let this be a lesson. Now everyone leave us.¡±

    They all bowed before leaving, and the door closed with a click. Reviled gently opened the tome and flipped through the pages. Necrotic mana danced across its arms and claws, and its core pulsed in response to Elithis¡¯ magic. It stopped and its mandible snapped in excitement. Celebration of the Avatar glistened in black and gold across the top of the page.

    ¡°Wait, sweet child,¡± Reviled raised its head and stared into the rift in front of it. The clattering of chains seeped from the portal and hidden in the shadows was the Dead Goddess herself. Elithis reached out, her hands brushing Reviled¡¯s face, ¡°My sweet boy, it¡¯s good to see you again.¡± Her honeyed words filled with love.

    ¡°Why should we wait?¡±

    ¡°Because I have a present for you,¡± Elithis sang while bopping Reviled¡¯s ¡®nose.¡¯

    The tome¡¯s pages rapidly flipped over until it landed on an empty page. Black-red ink slowly filled the page. A diagram of a large mechanical construction took up both pages of the tome.

    ¡°With this, my son, you will be the greatest avatar to ever serve me,¡± Elithis whispered.

    ¡°But what about Solomon?¡± Reviled looked into the void, ¡°If he returns, then we¡¯ll most likely be destroyed.¡±

    ¡°Trust mommy, dear,¡± Elithis chuckled, ¡°You won¡¯t have to worry about him anytime soon. Stay calm and make smart decisions, and you¡¯ll have plenty of time to make this.¡±

    Reviled looked down at the diagram, ¡°Very well mother,¡± it said, ¡°We look forward to your gift.¡±

    ¡°Good boy,¡± Elithis petted Reviled¡¯s head. When Reviled closed the tome, her hands dissipated into shadow. Reviled¡¯s mandibles clicked with joy as it exited the vault.

 The Wight King

    Warmth light bathed Garrod¡¯s skin, and he turned onto his side to gaze at the woman next to him. The sunlight danced over her glistening ebony skin with the glow from her tattoos giving her an ethereal beauty. Her eyes shone like pure gold, and he treasured those eyes more than anything in the world. Her smile radiated warmth and love. It made his heart stop every time he saw it.

    Garrod leaned over and kissed her neck, enjoying the sweet taste of her skin. She moaned in pleasure, holding his head as he slowly worked his way down to her chest. Her supple legs wrapped around him, and she lifted his head so she could kiss him deeply.

    Please wake up sire.

    A missive has come for you.

    Garrod groaned as he opened his eyes. It was the only way to describe it as the sickly green necrotic energy gathered in his eye sockets which allowed him to see. The flesh had long since rotted away, leaving behind the stark white bones which reflected the ghostly blue light that illuminated the room. Every sensation he once had felt muted like he was in an endless dream, or rather, a nightmare.

    It took him a moment to gather himself. He had fallen asleep on his throne again. In this hall, his ancestors glared down on him from their portraits that lined the walls, each bearing the golden sword of Touldan. A long line of heroes now ended with an avatar.

    ¡°Sire,¡±

    His gaze fell to the two women standing in front of him. Thick velvet straps wrapped around their chest and shoulders that connected to their long skirts. Their vygaern features hidden behind the necrotic mutations. Thick curled horns protruded from their temples, with a thin horn pocking out from their forehead. The grey horns mixed well with their ebony black hair. Their nails looked more like claws, and the dark red paint looked like blood. Their legs no longer looked human below the knees, instead they were replaced with the cloven feet of a goat, and although he couldn¡¯t see, he knew they had short fluffy tails on their backside. However, that didn¡¯t stop him from loving them, even if their new appearance made him feel guilty.

    ¡°Were you dreaming of sister again?¡± the one on the right said with a sad smile.

    ¡°Yes Nieva,¡± Garrod said gesturing for the two to approach. The women gently slid onto his lap, and he laid his hands on their slightly distended bellies.

    ¡°A message came from brother,¡± the other said holding up a letter.

    ¡°Please read it, Yaera,¡±

    Sire,

    I have broken through four of the ten walls that protect Fortress Delmiere. However, I must report that the dirgahn were killed after breaching the second. As of right now, the defenders have reinforced the fifth wall with stone which is hampering our progress, but I¡¯m certain that I should be able to break through it by the time this letter arrives.

    I¡¯m pleased to report that one of the Sacred Weapons has a wielder. The Sword of Touldan, as you expected, has chosen a wielder, and it is none other than your former squire, Solomon Wise. He¡¯s still as straight-laced now as he was back then, and thanks to your foresight, he won¡¯t be able to use his Sacred Weapon, for now. I shall report again once I¡¯ve reached the fortress.

    You faithful servant,

    Benharren Twin-axe,

    P.S. It seems that your penchant for vygaern women has rubbed off on your former student. His lover¡¯s beauty rivals that of sweet Almare.

    Garrod¡¯s laugh echoed through the hall, ¡°Solomon¡¯s the hero of Touldan,¡± genuine mirth filled his voice, ¡°So he¡¯s finally on the path he desires. Hopefully it won¡¯t destroy him.¡±

    ¡°What is brother talking about¡± Nieva pouted grabbing the letter, ¡°There is no one more beautiful than Almare.¡±

    ¡°But Benharren wouldn¡¯t lie,¡± Yaera said looking nervously.

    ¡°Will you three take this seriously,¡± A deep growled echoed through the hall.

    From the shadows a tall imposing figure appeared. His skin was pale blue like a corpse, but he had a thick beard with bones braided in it. Scars ran along his exposed arms and chest, which made him look imposing with his iron plated leather skirt and studded gauntlets. His horned black helmet hid the upper half of his face, but it didn¡¯t hide the malice coming from his eyes.

    ¡°A hero has appeared,¡± Bellidrex snapped, ¡°You should be preparing for battle, instead of bedding your whores.¡±If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    Garrod shifted signaling the women to get off, and he approached the hulking Dead God, ¡°I will not stand for you insulting my concubines, understand,¡±

    ¡°What will you do?¡± Bellidrex cackled holding up his hand. The necrotic mana pooled in Garrod¡¯s chest started flowing into the Dead God¡¯s hand, ¡°I could kill you here, and then what would you do?¡±

    Garrod lifted his own hand and summoned the Treaties, ¡°You¡¯ll be without an avatar,¡± Garrod chuckled.

    ¡°And should his majesty perish,¡± Nieva glared at the god.

    ¡°There is no reason to go to war with the Church,¡± Yaera replied with the same hatred.

    ¡°You see Bellidrex,¡± Garrod said, ¡°I¡¯m the only one here capable of being your avatar. Your desire for constant war makes you predictable, and that is why you¡¯re considered the least dangerous of the Dead Gods.¡±

    Bellidrex let the mana in his hand dissipate, ¡°I thought corrupting a hero¡¯s bloodline would be a great accomplishment. I wasn¡¯t expecting to bite me in the ass,¡± he slowly vanished into the mist, ¡°Do something about the hero.¡±

    Garrod sighed, ¡°He¡¯s right. Cieban, I need you.¡± Ghostly blue flames erupted in front of him, and it took on the form of a man in a tailored suit appeared.

    Cieban bowed, ¡°How may I be of service, your majesty?¡±

    ¡°Prepare my armor and dirgahn. I need to visit my former pupil.¡±

    ¡°Of course, Sire,¡± Cieban smiled sadly and disappeared.

    Garrod moved through the halls of his castle with his concubines following quietly behind him. As he walked through the halls, his servants, each corrupted by the necrotic mana from the Treaties, bowed to him. Each one willingly accepted to sacrifice their humanity to serve his selfishness, and for that he was grateful. Many of the servants were a form of undead. A skeleton, zombie, or specter like Cieban while others were like Nieva and Yaera, not undead but neither human. Of course, not all were undead.

    ¡°W-where are you going, sire?¡± a young vygaern boy stood off to the side trying to put on a brave face. He wore a simple buttoned coat and carried a short sword at his side.

    ¡°I need to go check on something your father mentioned,¡± Garrod petted the boys head, ¡°I need you to take care of your aunts while I¡¯m away. Can you do that Obaden?¡±

    Obaden bowed shakily, ¡°I won¡¯t let you down sire!¡±

    ¡°Good man, your father would be proud,¡± The boy beamed at the compliment as he saluted Garrod. They continued down the hall until Obaden was beyond hearing, ¡°That boy does not deserve this kind of life.¡± Garrod said, thankful that his skeletal face couldn¡¯t betray his emotions.

    ¡°True,¡± Nieva smiled sadly, ¡°But he wouldn¡¯t be living this life if it wasn¡¯t for the Church.¡±

    Garrod stopped, ¡°This isn¡¯t the Church¡¯s doing,¡± he said gently, ¡°I chose to open the necronomicon, and I¡¯m the one who chose to become an avatar,¡± he reached out and gently touched their faces, his thumbs rubbing against their horns, ¡°Please don¡¯t burden others with my sins.¡±

    ¡°But it is their fault!¡± Yaera cried holding his hand, ¡°If they had just cured the plague like they said they would then Almare¡­¡±

    ¡°True, and that is why I¡¯m going to destroy the Church,¡± Garrod growled, ¡°They no longer embody the Virtues they claim to serve, instead they care only about themselves. Hopefully, a better church will rise when this war is over.¡± Both women looked sad as he pulled away.

    Garrod entered a large circular room. Cieban stood there waiting for them, and when Garrod stopped in the center of the room, he snapped his fingers. The armor levitated from the tables and flew over to Garrod. The straps undid themselves and the armor gently slid into place and redid the straps. Each piece secured itself, and Garrod stood there in full plate mail. Slowly, he approached the back of the room.

    A crystal coffin sat on a marble table. The light from the moon glistened off the stone and bathed the occupant in ivory light. Almare laid there peacefully, untouched by decay around her thanks to the purifying properties of her coffin. If it wasn¡¯t for the stark white lines that used to be her magic tattoos, some may have confused her for sleeping.

    Garrod laid a hand on the coffin, ¡°Why do you keep pining for her,¡± Bellidrex¡¯s voice echoed through the room, ¡°She could be by your side again if you let me have her.¡±

    ¡°Touch her Bellidrex, and I¡¯ll see to it your book never comes back,¡± Garrod snapped which caused the god to chuckle. ¡°I¡¯ll be back, my love.¡± He whispered.

    With a longing look, Garrod turned around and stepped out of the room. His armor clanked as he strode through the halls to the large courtyard. In the center five large dirgahn sat waiting. Unlike the Somarie variant, these dirgahn had thin serpentine bodies with large leathery wings. They laid on their stomachs so that the servants could secure the saddles around the base of their necks. A sail ran along their spiny back to the tip of the tail which had two other leathery sails running along the sides. The dirgahn cawed at each other trying to establish dominance but quieted as Garrod approached.

    ¡°The wyrmen dirgahn are ready sire,¡± Cieban appeared at Garrod¡¯s side.

    Garrod nodded as he mounted the giant lizard, ¡°I should be back in a few months,¡± he said looking down at his servants, ¡°Take care of things while I¡¯m gone.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Cieban bowed.

    ¡°Sire,¡± Nieva looked up to him nervously.

    ¡°Be safe,¡± Yaera continued for her sister.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Garrod said warmly, ¡°I have two reason to return.¡±

    The women smiled touching their bellies. Garrod steered his dirgahn towards the gate and snapped his feet against its hide. The monster roared, jumped, and took to the skies with the powerful flaps of its wings. The four other dirgahn followed, each mounted by a powerful lich knight.

    As the dirgahn slowly disappeared into the night sky, Nieva and Yaera grasped each other¡¯s hand. Their other hands never left their abdomens.

    ¡°Should we have let him leave,¡± Yaera whispered to her sister, ¡°If he were to perish¡­¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s enough,¡± Nieva said calmly, ¡°We promised Almare that we would do what she couldn¡¯t,¡± a tear ran down her cheek, ¡°We will stand by his side until the day he perishes, and we will make sure that his majesty¡¯s linage won¡¯t end here.¡± Yaera nodded in understanding.

    Warm blankets suddenly wrapped around their shoulders, ¡°Come your highnesses,¡± Cieban gestured to the castle, ¡°I¡¯ve prepared a warm bath for the two of you. Just because it¡¯s summer doesn¡¯t mean you two can¡¯t catch a cold.¡±

    ¡°Thank you Cieban.¡±

    ¡°It is my duty to care for his majesty, and his family,¡± Cieban smiled sadly, ¡°Besides, I know how painful it is to pass from a disease.¡± The woman nodded with a frown as they followed the head butler back inside.

 Established Reign

    The sound of daggers running along whetstones filled the small shack. It was filled with young men and women, each wearing a piece of clothing with a yellow cats paw on their person. Their simple hideout sat at the back of an alley along the city wall in the worst part of the city slums. In a small chest nestled in a corner was the gang¡¯s treasure, a collection of bronze coins with a few silver coins sprinkled in. The members all gathered around a crate with a worn map of the city.

    ¡°All right everyone,¡± the leader, Julen, said, ¡°Now¡¯s our chance to carve out a part of the city for ourselves.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s about time,¡± the woman next to him said.

    ¡°First thing firsts, we need to get collect protection money from all in our territory,¡± Julen drew a rough circle with charcoal, ¡°No more having to steal it.¡±

    ¡°What about the Legion?¡± a man across from Julen said scratching his head, ¡°I heard they took out the Street Dogs last week.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because the Street Dogs were trying to move onto their turf,¡± Julen pointed to a large red circle, ¡°As long as we keep to ourselves, I don¡¯t think we have to worry about them. From what I understand, they don¡¯t have the manpower to rule this city. If we move quickly, then we can become a major player in this city.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡±

    Pounding came from the door. They all turned with suspicious glares. Julen gestured, and one of the members went to open the door. As soon as the door is opened, the member who opened it is thrown back. A group of eight stepped into the shack with the leader covered in a cloak.

    ¡°You have a lot of nerve coming here,¡± a female member shouted drawing her dagger, ¡°This is the Golden Paws territory.¡±

    ¡°We know,¡± the leader chuckled. It sent shivers down Julen¡¯s spine, ¡°We¡¯re here to incorporate you into our legion.¡±

    The members of the Golden Paws shifted uncomfortably, ¡°We¡¯re honored, but we prefer to remain independent.¡± Julen smiled uncomfortably.

    The leader slowly approached and towered over Julen, ¡°This isn¡¯t an invitation,¡± he picked up Julen by the throat, ¡°One way or another, you will join us.¡± Julen screamed as pain ran through his forehead.

    Reviled stepped out of the small shack with his entourage. Four bodies lay on the ground while the three remaining Golden Paws members cowered at the back of the shack with torn clothes.

    ¡°We¡¯ll see you all tomorrow night,¡± Oria chuckled as she closed the door. She quickly ran to fall in step behind Reviled, ¡°It¡¯s a shame we couldn¡¯t get more of them to join us.¡±

    ¡°True, but we can make use of them,¡± Reviled sighed as it turned down a street, ¡°They were quite pretty. I think those three women will make fine prostitutes.¡±

    ¡°I¡­ think we have enough of them,¡± Mina said looking back at the shack, ¡°We could use more men to act as enforcers.¡±

    ¡°True, hopefully the next gang will be more reasonable,¡± Reviled sighed turning to Oria, ¡°Who are we recruiting next?¡±

    ¡°The Green Spears,¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s with these names?¡± Mina scoffed, ¡°Street Dogs, Golden Paws, Green Spears. Couldn¡¯t they think of anything better?¡±

    ¡°Sweet Mina, these are street urchins,¡± Oria hugged her, ¡°They¡¯re not the most educated. We should be lucky they can even think of these names.¡±

    ¡°Where can we find them?¡± Reviled gestured for Oria to lead.

    Oria led them through the streets. Without proper streetlamps like the upper and middle city had, the streets of the slums were completely dark. Oria effortlessly moved through the streets while Mina held onto Reviled¡¯s cloak for support. They came to another ruined shack with lights pouring out from the cracks.

    Reviled took the lead once again and knocked on the rickety door. A drunken young man opened the door, and he stared in confusion at the towering Reviled. His gaze then fell onto Oria and Mina and a sleazy smile spread across his lips.

    ¡°Who is it?¡± Came from inside.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ¨C hic ¨C know,¡± he chuckled, ¡°But they have some beautiful women with them.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re here to see your boss,¡± Oria stepped forward with a sly smile, ¡°Can you show us to him, please.¡± She playfully ran her fingers across his chest.

    The man¡¯s smile widened, and he gestured for them to enter. The Green Spears¡¯ base smelled heavily of booze. Several independent prostitutes moved around the place serving the drunken members. This was the largest street gang they visited tonight, and they also looked to be the toughest.

    The Green Spears boss sat on a broken and torn sofa with two whores on either side. He lazily eyed Reviled and his gang, letting it linger on Mina and Oria. The whores never took their nervous eyes off Reviled.

    With a deep sigh, he sat forward, ¡°So, the Legion has finally come for us,¡± he said taking a bite from a piece of slightly molded bread.

    ¡°You¡¯re well informed,¡± Reviled chuckled as the celebration quickly died down.

    ¡°Word travels fast,¡± the boss sneered, ¡°Ever since the King fled, your gang started filling the void. We know you took down the Street Dogs, and now you¡¯re coming for us.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s partially correct,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We didn¡¯t destroy the Street Dogs, we brought them into the fold, even if it was a tad¡­ violent. Now we¡¯re here to make you the same offer.¡±

    ¡°Piss off bub!¡± a tankard flew at Reviled, but it fluidly dodged.

    Reviled glared at the thug and raised its claw, ¡°Cursed Sores,¡±

    Dark red magic struck the thug, and he screamed in pain as his flesh started to eat at itself. The other members drew their weapons, but the gang boss raised a hand to stop them. The Green Spear members watched as the one member fell to the ground, his flesh filled with erupting pustules and wounds seeping black blood.

    ¡°I take it, that was a demonstration,¡± the boss sighed.

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°You want us to join you,¡± the boss scratched his chin, ¡°What¡¯s in it for us?¡±

    Reviled tossed a purse onto the table and gold coins fell out. The boss¡¯ eyes widened in surprise.

    ¡°Consider this an investment,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Of course, you¡¯ll be expected to earn your keep.¡±

    ¡°Our keep,¡± the boss chuckled taking the purse, ¡°And how would you like us to do that?¡±

    ¡°Right now, we¡¯re in need of muscle,¡± Reviled looked around, ¡°You seem to have plenty of that.¡±Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.

    The boss stroked his chin, ¡°Indeed we do, and can we expect proper equipment?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡±

    ¡°Boss, are you sure?¡± The Green Spear members looked to their leader.

    The boss threw the gold coins through the shack. The members greedily eyed the coins, ¡°What do you think?¡± he turned to Reviled and bowed, ¡°Danien and the Green Spears are at your service Sire.¡±

    ¡°Excellent,¡± Reviled tossed another purse full of gold, ¡°See to it your men are properly outfitted. You are street toughs no longer,¡± Danien nodded when he took the purse, ¡°Tomorrow night, come to the Crimson Maiden. We¡¯ll give you your first assignment, and it comes with some¡­ excellent perks.¡±

    ¡°As you command, Sire,¡±

    <hr>

    Mina leaned against Reviled¡¯s box with her head resting on her hand. It had been a long night, and she desired nothing more than to go to bed. Of the five gangs they visited, only two willingly accepted to join them. The others were beaten down and forced to submit, and unfortunately, the only surviving members of those gangs were women. A part of her felt guilty about subjecting the women to the same lifestyle she once lived, but it was necessary for Reviled¡¯s plan.

    Mina felt cold metal brush her hair, ¡°We have a few more things to talk about, then you can go to bed,¡± Reviled said gently.

    Mina nodded as the other members entered. Baron and Taela sat at the bar while Meridith joined Oria and Mina next to Reviled¡¯s box. Skivret and his group sat at the small tables near the sewer door, and Cappy and Antwuan slept in the corner. Mina gave a dejected sigh when Kogna didn¡¯t come in. Ada and Yula served everyone.

    ¡°How¡¯d the headhunting go?¡± Baron gave them a sly smile while taking a sip.

    ¡°Quite well,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°I¡¯m sending you some more girls Taela.¡±

    ¡°T-thank you master,¡± Taela smiled politely, ¡°I¡¯ll see to it Katrina properly trains them.¡±

    Meridith smirked at Taela¡¯s discomfort, ¡°What¡¯s the next step,¡± she said looking to the tome sitting next to Reviled, ¡°We went to all that trouble trying to get the necronomicon, but you haven¡¯t done anything with it yet.¡±

    ¡°We were planning on ascending that night, but Mother stopped us.¡±

    Everyone looked at each other in fear. ¡°By mother, do you mean the Dead Goddess Elithis?¡± Baron shakily set his glass down.

    Reviled chuckled at Baron¡¯s quaking, ¡°Yes,¡± it said approaching Rench and handing it a stack of papers, ¡°Can you and the other wererat crafters make this?¡±

    The elder rat leafed through the papers while stroking his whiskers, ¡°It¡¯s possible,¡± he said cautiously, ¡°We won¡¯t be able to create the individual pieces, but if they¡¯re premade, we can possibly build it,¡± He looked at the monster, ¡°We won¡¯t be able to build it in the sewers though.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll rent a warehouse then,¡±

    ¡°Why not buy one?¡± Baron pulled out a crumpled slip of paper, ¡°The Duke fined my old man the day we killed him. Even if he¡¯s gone, I¡¯ll still need to pay for it, so I¡¯m going to sell all his assets. You¡¯re free to buy them if you want.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Reviled said handing Meridith the list of materials.

    ¡°Do you have a plan to sneak these parts in?¡± Oria peeked over Meridith¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Some of these parts are awfully¡­ conspicuous.¡±

    ¡°We do,¡± it stared at Meridith, ¡°Tomorrow, we need you to go to the castle and try to negotiate a contract for renovations on the lower city.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Meridith flipped through the pages, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best, but we may need to pull on some other strings as well.¡±

    ¡°We plan on visiting our princess soon,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°Also, what would we need to create our own band of mercenaries?¡±

    Meridith tapped her chin, ¡°We¡¯ll need the Duke¡¯s favor as well as a writ of authority,¡± she said, ¡°However, the Black Horn Guild may see it as an encroachment on their territory.¡±

    ¡°Not if we work together,¡± Everyone looked at Reviled in confusion, ¡°The guild lost a lot of members thanks to us, and I doubt they were able to recruit enough to cover loss, even if there is no end to foolish children.¡±

    ¡°True,¡± Meridith flinched, ¡°But I don¡¯t see your point. The Black Horn Guild recruits from every major faction in the city. Paladins, mages, priests, thieves, guards, knights, everyone is free to¡­ join.¡± She gasped in understanding.

    ¡°Exactly,¡± Reviled said happily, ¡°The goal isn¡¯t to usurp the guild¡¯s power, but to add another pool for them to draw from. This way, our influence can creep deeper into the city¡¯s infrastructure.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s going to take a lot of capital,¡± Baron scoffed gesturing for a refill.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have to worry about money,¡± Reviled stepped behind Taela running a claw against her jaw, ¡°How goes the expansions of your brothels?¡±

    Taela suppressed a shiver, ¡°Thanks to you, we have no shortage of girls to satisfy our clientele,¡± she said calmly, ¡°Ou-my second establishment will open by the end of the week, and construction of our third brothel in the middle city will start a week later. We just need to remove the independents off the streets. We could also renovate some of our smaller brothels too.¡±

    ¡°We should only renovate the ones bringing in money,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Close down the others.¡±

    ¡°Of course, master,¡± Taela bowed.

    ¡°You see everyone,¡± Reviled addressed them all, ¡°The plan is to start bringing the money to us. If we can turn the slums around, then we can draw in the wealth from the upper city. Let it be a hideaway of sorts for them.¡±

    ¡°And we¡¯ll use their money to build¡­ what is this?¡± Oria ran over to look at the blueprints.

    ¡°A Grand Phylactery,¡±

    Silence filled the room.

    ¡°You planning to become a lich boss?¡± Oria cackled, ¡°If so, then why not make a normal one. It''ll be lighter on your purse.¡±

    Reviled slowly walked over to Oria. Her laughing quickly faded as the monster towered over her. She tried to look away, but Reviled gently took hold of her face.

    ¡°Sweet Oria, we would never debase ourselves by becoming a lich,¡± its mandibles clicked with its laugh, ¡°We¡¯re missing a few¡­ components,¡± it ran a claw down the side of her face, ¡°This is something else entirely. A gift that¡¯ll enhance our power a thousand-fold,¡± a threat lingered in its gentle tone, ¡°So don¡¯t mock it.¡±

    Oria nodded vigorously, ¡°Sorry boss,¡±

    Reviled pressed its lower face to Oria¡¯s forehead, ¡°Just be careful what you say,¡± it embraced her, ¡°Now that the tome is free, Mother can see and hear everything, and we won¡¯t be able to stop her if you anger her, understand?¡±

    ¡°Yes boss,¡± Oria whispered as she returned the hug.

    ¡°Good,¡± Reviled released her and turned to all of them, ¡°That goes for all of you.¡± All eyes gazed fearfully at the tome. ¡°Meridith, Baron, let¡¯s talk about purchasing those assets.¡±

    As everyone else went back to their tasks, Mina couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the tome. She reached out and pulled it closer. The ivory ant head looked menacingly at her like it was ready to bite. Yet, her fingers ran along the cover and opened it.

    The only thing Mina could understand were the names of the spells written in the book. The incantations and runic symbols made the spells look completely alien to her, but a strange sense of fascination pushed her to keep looking. As she flipped through the pages, she couldn¡¯t help but feel as if someone was lingering over her shoulder, and it didn¡¯t help that a weight seemed to press on her shoulders. Her arms started to feel heavy, a feeling she remembered from when the pirates had shackled her. As she continued reading, the image of the pirates wrapping a metal collar around her neck came to mind, and it felt like it was back in place. Finally, she stopped on a page, and she couldn¡¯t take her eyes off the name. Evolutionary Transmutation glowed alluringly in the lamplight.

    Naughty girls need to be punished.

    Mina gasped and turned when she heard a woman¡¯s voice. She stared into Reviled¡¯s piercing red gaze, and tears started forming in the corners of her eyes as Reviled reached down and closed the book.

    ¡°M-master¡­ I¡¯m sorry,¡± Mina cried, ¡°I-I don¡¯t know¡­ what came over me.¡± She flinched when Reviled reached out to her.

    Its clawed hand gently petted her head, ¡°Be more careful Mina,¡± it said trying to comfort her, ¡°The necronomicons¡­ aren¡¯t meant for casual readings. They¡¯re dangerous.¡± Mina nodded as she wiped her eyes, ¡°Go to bed,¡± It turned to everyone, ¡°You¡¯re all free to go.¡± Slowly everyone filed out. Meridith wrapped Mina with a comforting embrace.

    <hr>

    Reviled waited until the sounds of footsteps faded before turning its attention back to the book. Its gaze quickly turned to the Cappy and Antuan who were still sleeping soundly. With a wave of its hand, it cast Silence over them which muffled out their snoring.

    Reviled slowly opened the book, ¡°Why did you do that mother?¡± it gazed up at the portal in front of it.

    ¡°Why do you want to know?¡± Elithis said. Although the shadows hid her features, Reviled could see she was lounging on her throne. A collar with a chain hung from her right hand, ¡°I nearly would have had her had you not interfered.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why we did,¡±

    The teasing smile could be heard in Elithis¡¯ voice, ¡°You¡¯re quite fond of them aren¡¯t you,¡± she looked up, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you haven¡¯t killed Baron yet, especially since-¡±

    ¡°Enough, not another word,¡± Reviled growled.

    The air grew heavy as Elithis sat up straight, ¡°Reviled Legion,¡± her voice shook like thunder as ethereal chains formed around Reviled, ¡°Kneel!¡± Reviled quietly took a knee and lowered its head. ¡°My sweet boy,¡± Elithis took Reviled¡¯s face into her hands, ¡°I was bored. I promise, I won¡¯t hurt your pets.¡±

    ¡°Actions speaks louder than words mother,¡±

    Elithis chuckled, ¡°Cheeky boy, you truly are my son,¡± she leaned back on her throne as a ball of red mana appeared in her hand, ¡°I hereby bless all those who bear your mark. From this day forward, they shall no longer worry about disease, poison, or pain. The women need not fear growing old, and the men shall be forever strong,¡± she clapped her hands, and the mana dispersed. ¡°Happy now?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°You know son, you should heed your own advice,¡± The threat evident in Elithis¡¯ loving voice.

    ¡°Forgive us, mother,¡±

    ¡°I understand your desire to protect what is yours,¡± Elithis said calmly, ¡°But understand, you are an important piece in a plan that has taken us centuries to construct. When everything comes together, we¡¯ll finally steal this world away from the Virtues. You are more vital than they are, remember that.¡± The portal vanished when the tome closed itself.

    ¡°Yes, mother,¡± Reviled sat back in its box with its hand resting on the tome.

 Pulling at Strings

    Priscilla hugged her pillow tightly and ran her face against it, ¡°I¡¯m glad your happy,¡± she mumbled with a goofy smile. She then buried her face into it.

    ¡°My lady, it¡¯s time to wake up,¡± Lana gently shook her. Priscilla mumbled unintelligibly into her pillow. Lana sighed and whispered into the child¡¯s ear, ¡°My lady, there¡¯s a handsome knight ready to steal you away.¡±

    Priscilla bolted up, ¡°No, I¡¯m not presentable!¡± she scrambled out of bed and ran to her wardrobe, ¡°What should I wear!¡± Lana¡¯s laugh struck her, and she glared at the older woman, ¡°That¡¯s not funny,¡± she said twirling a finger through her messy hair, ¡°What if one were to show up one day.¡±

    ¡°Then he¡¯ll have his hands full with a lovely young maiden,¡± Lana smiled running her hands through Priscilla¡¯s hair, ¡°And her gorgeous handmaid as well. He may even choose her instead.¡±

    Priscilla stared dagger as her handmaid. Even if it was true, the joke wasn¡¯t that funny, ¡°Whose to say I¡¯d even take you along?¡± she huffed as she sat down at the vanity.

    ¡°You¡¯d have no choice,¡± Lana brushed the tangles out of Priscilla¡¯s golden hair, ¡°Or else I would have to inform your knight of all your¡­ preferences.¡± A wicked smile came to her face.

    Priscilla¡¯s face turned deep red, ¡°You¡¯re a terrible woman,¡± she pouted.

    ¡°I¡¯m simply looking out for you my lady,¡± Lana smiled sweetly as she pulled out two dresses. ¡°How shall we catch your knight¡¯s attention,¡± she held up a rose and creamed colored gown with frill and bows, ¡°Shall we go with an adorable look,¡± she held up the second dress, a scarlet gown with a low collar, open back, and a slit along the left seam, ¡°Or alluring?¡± Lana¡¯s wicked smile grew larger.

    Priscilla stared at the red dress then turned her gaze to the ground, ¡°I-I don¡¯t think the red one is appropriate now,¡± she mumbled while fanning herself.

    ¡°You¡¯re right my lady,¡± Lana nodded sagely, ¡°You don¡¯t have the figure to pull off the alluring look.¡±

    ¡°Dammit, that¡¯s enough!¡± Priscilla rose from her plush stool and stormed out of the room. As soon as she opened the door, a wave of horror washed over her.

    ¡°Good morning, my lady,¡± Kogna bowed deeply to her.

    The light bathed his beautiful long black hair making it sparkle. His vibrant green eyes burned with a warrior¡¯s fire, and her heart skipped when his deep purple iris took her in. His richly made black and gold robes accentuated his exotic nature, making him even more handsome. Which made this even more horrifying as she stood there in her wrinkled shift that barely hung on her petite frame.

    Priscilla slammed the door and snarled at Lana, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me Kogna was out there!¡± she squealed.

    ¡°I did,¡± Lana said with an absent-minded smile, ¡°I said there was a handsome knight waiting for you.¡± Priscilla screamed as she tore at her hair.

    After getting dressed, Priscilla walked down the halls trying to keep herself from crying. She was fully aware of Kogna following behind them. When she quickly glanced back, she saw Lana giving her a professional smile, but she recognized the devilish glint in her eyes. Priscilla was about to turn the corner, but she was suddenly pulled back, and she found herself in Kogna¡¯s arms. Several servants rushed down the hall she was turning down. She groaned at the fact she completely missed the loud creaking coming from their carts.

    ¡°Are you alright my lady?¡± Priscilla looked up into Kogna¡¯s eyes. At that moment, words seemed impossible to produce, so she nodded vigorously, ¡°Good,¡± he gave her a small smile which made heart skip a beat.

    Priscilla pushed herself off him. ¡°Thank the Virtues you were here,¡± Lana swooned as she entangled her arms into his. Priscilla turned around grinding her teeth, ¡°You truly are an honorable knight.¡± Lana¡¯s sensual tone caused her to growl as she continued down the hall.

    ¡°I was simply doing my duty ma¡¯am,¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re too modest Sir Kogna,¡± Lana¡¯s tone felt like daggers in her skin, ¡°Are you married?¡±

    ¡°No ma¡¯am,¡±

    Priscilla could hear the smile on Lana¡¯s face, ¡°I see, how¡­ fortunate,¡±

    Priscilla stormed through the castle halls and pushed her way into the dining room. The rest of her family were already there. Her father sat at the head of the table with his plate nearly empty, and he held his wife¡¯s hand while finishing his morning tea. Her mother stared at her husband with a warm, but sad smile. Phineas sat across from their mother with his plate completely empty, but he looked miserable due to the dark circles around his eyes. They all turned to look at her.

    ¡°Good morning, dear,¡± Rosalynn smiled as she came over to hug Priscilla. She took Priscilla¡¯s face into her hands, ¡°We were expecting you sooner. Are you alright?¡±

    Priscilla nodded, but Lana chimed in, ¡°She had an eventful morning,¡±

    Priscilla glared at her which caused her mother to laugh, ¡°So you were teasing her again,¡± she eyed Kogna who stood by the door, ¡°I wonder what about.¡± She led Priscilla to the table.

    As the servants set a full plate in front of Priscilla, ¡°I¡¯m sorry dear,¡± the Duke came over and kissed her cheek, ¡°But your brother and I need to get to work early today.¡±

    ¡°I understand father,¡± Priscilla kissed him back, ¡°Have a good day.¡±

    As the door closed behind them, her mother leaned over, ¡°So, you have a special visitor today,¡± Priscilla looked to her mother dumbfounded, ¡°It¡¯s Viscount Triemiere¡¯s son, Olivar.¡± Priscilla groaned into her hands.

    <hr>

    Meridith followed the attendant down the halls. Mina followed closely behind, but the girl was casually looking down every hall they passed. Meridith couldn¡¯t stop the small smile as she watched the girl search for her brother. The attendant stopped in front of an ornate door and knocked on it.

    ¡°Come in,¡± A voice came from inside.

    The attendant opened the door, ¡°Your Grace, lady Meridith is here to see you.¡±

    ¡°Excellent, show her in!¡±

    Meridith stepped past the attendant and curtsied to the two men behind the desk. The Duke looked older than she expected, with heavy wrinkles around his eyes and lips, and the hair on his head and face were a dull grey. He was still a handsome man, in a way that befitted older men.

    Next to him was a younger man with the same golden hair as Maelon. However, it was cut short with fuzz around the sides and back. His deep blue eyes didn¡¯t have the same arrogant sheen as Maelon¡¯s, instead there was something soothing about them. Even Meridith had to keep herself from lingering on the handsome man.

    ¡°Thank you for seeing me, your Graces,¡± Meridith smiled.

    ¡°This is a long-awaited meeting,¡± the Duke smiled coming around to stand in front of her. Meridith¡¯s lips twitched as he reached out to her.

    ¡°Father,¡± the young man came around and whispered into the Duke¡¯s ear.

    The Duke gazed over her and gave her an apologetic smile, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to make you uncomfortable, my dear,¡± he gestured to the chair in front of his desk.

    ¡°Thank you for being understanding,¡± Meridith went to sit down, but the young man slid the chair over for her. He even helped Mina into the other chair. ¡°Thank you.¡±Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    ¡°So, what brings you here today?¡± The Duke smiled as the young man took a seat next to him.

    ¡°I¡¯m here on behalf of my master,¡± Meridith smiled warmly, ¡°He desires to renovate the lower city, and wishes to sign a public contract with the city.¡±

    The Duke scratched his chin, ¡°Why does your master wish to repair the lower city,¡± the young man asked incredulously.

    ¡°As you are aware your lordship, my master has opened a tavern in the lower city,¡± Meridith¡¯s smile turned sad, ¡°He laments the state the lower city is in. He¡¯s done his best to help, but there isn¡¯t much that can be done with one tavern. He¡¯s wanting to restore order in the area.¡±

    ¡°And how does he plan to do that?¡± The Duke asked.

    ¡°For start, he wishes to create his own mercenary unit,¡± Meridith said. "This unit would be responsible for restoring order in the lower city, and of course, they¡¯d be available to the city whenever you need them.¡±

    The Duke hummed in thought, ¡°What do you think, Phineas?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m a little weary about having an army not loyal to us within the city,¡± Phineas sighed looking at Meridith, ¡°How else does your master plan to improve the lower city?¡±

    ¡°Well, he planned on investing in the area around the tavern,¡± Meridith smiled sweetly, ¡°Setting up shops in the area so that the citizens can earn their own livelihood. The investments would slowly expand outward to then encompass housing and support services.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re just unsure,¡± the Duke said shaking his head, ¡°The last time we allowed a citizen to have free reign over public services, it didn¡¯t end well.¡±

    ¡°My master wouldn¡¯t mind oversight from your lordship,¡± Meridith said, but then gasped, ¡°Forgive me, your Graces, I didn¡¯t mean to overstep. I know you two are busy ruling the domain.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, my dear,¡± the Duke chuckled, ¡°But you¡¯re right, we don¡¯t have the time to focus on a small section of the city. Even Cromwell is busy with his work.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there someone though. Maybe¡­ someone who could use the experience?¡±

    Phineas sighed, ¡°What about Priscilla,¡± he said looking to his father, ¡°Chances are, she¡¯ll need the experience for when she marries. Overseeing this project could make her a more valuable wife, and she could always come to us if something is beyond her.¡±

    ¡°Priscilla, that could work,¡± the Duke turned to Meridith, ¡°Your master will be held responsible for her safety when she¡¯s in the lower city.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡±

    ¡°Then we should let her know about her new position,¡± the Duke smiled as he rang a bell. An attendant came in, ¡°Please fetch a scribe. I need a public contract, and a writ of authority drafted.¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°My lady, you are as beautiful as ever,¡±

    Priscilla gave a strained smile at the compliment. Due to her love of classic fairy tales, Priscilla couldn¡¯t deny that she was attracted to men who embodied the spirit of knightly chivalry. Men like Halligan and Kogna, men the exact opposite to Olivar. He was a soft man who had never struggled a day in his life. He was sweating profusely, even though they were sitting and talking. She wanted to run away from the man who was ten years her senior, but to do so would put her family in a precarious situation.

    ¡°And you are looking¡­ well yourself,¡± Priscilla tried to smile warmly at him.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Olivar chuckled as he sipped his tea, ¡°You know my dear, you should come visit me back home in Triemiere. This years crops are growing splendidly, and I believe this years wine will be the best our domain has ever produced.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s wonderful to hear,¡± Priscilla said, ¡°But I still have my studies to complete before I can think of taking such a long trip.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ve asked his Grace if I could stay until your studies are done,¡± Olivar laughed.

    Priscilla¡¯s smile faltered, but thankfully Olivar didn¡¯t notice. His gaze was drawn to a well-developed woman who had just walked in. Her hair was a mixture of gold and red like the dawn, and a beauty mark sat at the corner of her left eye. The collar of her dress showed off her cleavage and the slave mark sitting right above it. Despite being marked, she smiled warmly at Olivar as she set down a plate of sweets.

    ¡°Thank you Myraelle,¡± Olivar smiled, his eyes never left her chest.

    ¡°You¡¯re welcome, my lord,¡± Myraelle¡¯s smile brightened.

    Priscilla watched as the woman stood to the side of the sofa, ¡°How many slaves does your family have,¡± she scoffed setting down her tea.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be that way, my lady,¡± Olivar sighed drastically, ¡°This is our way of helping our subjects. Times have been hard on them since the Wight King appeared, and so, this is our way of giving back to them.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s right, your grace,¡± Myraelle said happily, ¡°Thanks to my lord¡¯s generosity, my family was able to pay off their debts and have enough money to take care of the farm,¡± Her eyes shone, ¡°Lord Olivar is an amazing man.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Priscilla¡¯s smile twitched. She sighed in relief when Lana stepped into the room.

    ¡°My lady, the Duke wishes to see you,¡± Lana said.

    Priscilla rose to her feet, ¡°We¡¯ll speak again later lord Olivar,¡± she curtsied and tried not run out of the room. As soon as the door closed behind her, ¡°Thanks for getting me out of there Lana.¡±

    ¡°That wasn¡¯t my intention my lady,¡± Lana said seriously, ¡°Your father truly did call for you.¡±

    Priscilla stood straight as she followed Lana to her father¡¯s office. Inside both her father and brother were sitting across from lady Meridith who gave her a warm smile. A scribe sat at the side desk scribbling on two parchments.

    ¡°You wished to see me father,¡± Priscilla curtsied.

    ¡°Yes,¡± the Duke said with a tender smile, ¡°My dear, I believe it¡¯s time that you take on some responsibility.¡±

    ¡°What kind of responsibility?¡±

    ¡°Lady Meridith was sent here to negotiate a service contract on the behalf of her employer,¡± Phineas said. Priscilla found it weird that his eyes seemed to linger on the woman, ¡°However, due to the¡­ incident we had previously, his grace and I felt it important to have a representative to oversee the project. We wouldn¡¯t want what happened with Decker to happen again.¡±

    ¡°That is why we chose you to be our representative,¡± the Duke said, ¡°This would be an excellent opportunity for you to learn how to manage more than a household. Also, I think it would do you well to understand how our people live.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d be honored, but what would my role entail?¡±

    ¡°As our representative, you¡¯ll be meeting regularly with lady Meridith and her employer and inspect the lower city. During these meetings you¡¯ll be getting updates on the project, and you¡¯ll have final say on how the project should progress. You¡¯ll also have access to all their records since we¡¯re providing a portion of the funds, you¡¯ll need to account for every coin spent.¡±

    Priscilla gasped, ¡°Am I to do this all on my own?¡±

    ¡°Of course not,¡± the Duke laughed, ¡°You¡¯ll have clerks under you to help, but most of the legwork will be done by master Legion.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Priscilla smiled professionally, ¡°And when can I expect to meet with master Legion?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s available this afternoon, if you desire to meet with him?¡± Meridith returned the smile.

    ¡°Excellent,¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll have a carriage and guards ready to take you to the lower city,¡± Phineas stood and bowed before Meridith before leaving the room. Priscilla couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at the small smile on Phineas¡¯ lips.

    ¡°Lana, can you inform Sir Kogna that we¡¯re leaving,¡± Priscilla turned to her handmaid.

    ¡°Of course,¡± Lana bowed and headed to the door. She stopped and undid the top buttons of her dress, ¡°It may take him a while to get ready though,¡± she smiled mischievously as she closed the door. Priscilla growled trying to keep herself from screaming.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad to see Kogna is fitting in well,¡± the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman laughed, ¡°Thank you for taking care of my brother, your grace.¡±

    Priscilla calmed herself down and gave her a genuine smile, ¡°Of course, your brother has proven himself to be quite skilled. I¡¯m honored to have him as my personal knight.¡±

    Lady Meridith rose from her chair, ¡°Shall we head out my lady?¡±

    Priscilla nodded and led the women out of the room. She tried her best to keep herself calm, but her heart hammered rapidly in her chest at the thought of meeting the mysterious spell caster. If only Sir Halligan had been there.

    <hr>

    Halligan stepped into the church that occupied the upper city. The seven statues of the Virtues bathed in the colored light coming in from the stained-glass windows gazed down at him and Elizar. A few of the pews were filled with worshippers praying, but at this time of day the church was nearly empty. A priestess at the alter noticed them and quietly approached.

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again master Halligan,¡± she said with a warm smile, ¡°If you¡¯ll follow me, I¡¯ll take you to see the others.¡±

    The priestess led them to into the back halls of the church. As they continued, a part of the hall opened into the church¡¯s back garden where a large fountain sat in the center. A few of the clergy rested by the fountain. The garden disappeared as they entered the back wing of the church where the offices of the upper clergy sat, and they were led into a large meeting room.

    Inside, five young paladins sat at the round table. None of them wore their armor, but their coats were embroidered with the crest of their gods. Another priestess, a mature beauty, sat at the far end of the table. Her pristine white robes covered every inch of her body, leaving her face and hands exposed. Her long pale white hair shone in the light, and her plump red lips were perpetually upturned in a smile. Her amber eyes almost looked like gold, and they softened when they landed on Halligan. The priestess that guided them left and shut the door behind her.

    ¡°Thank you all for coming,¡± Halligan smiled taking them all in, ¡°I¡¯m grateful the Church heeded his Grace¡¯s summons.¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± the mature priestess said, ¡°His Holiness was worried when Sir Solomon mentioned a monster lurking within Jericho, and he apologizes for not sending help earlier. I am Saint Urielle, and I have been charged by his Holiness to aid you in this endeavor.¡±

    Halligan gasped and bowed low, ¡°It is an honor to have your support my lady,¡± he stuttered, ¡°To think his Holiness would send the Heavenly Warden herself fills with me with great hope.¡±

    ¡°Please raise your head,¡± Urielle laughed, ¡°I came because the Virtue Shecoga told me to. Apparently, there¡¯s more to this monster than it seems.¡±

    ¡°We were the ones his Holiness sent,¡± the paladin wearing the crest of the Virtue Elliander said, ¡°The five of us were recently appointed to proper paladins, but that doesn''t mean we won¡¯t take this seriously.¡±

    ¡°So, they¡¯re still green,¡± Elizar scoffed, ¡°At least lady Urielle is a capable hero.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care if they are,¡± Halligan smiled hopefully, ¡°They¡¯re paladins, which means they can harness divine mana, and with lady Urielle with us there¡¯s no way we can lose to this monster.¡±

    Urielle¡¯s smile faded, ¡°Please Sir Halligan, tell us everything you know of this monster.¡±

 The Princess and The Monster

    Priscilla looked out the carriage window and watched the ruined buildings of the lower city go by. She had heard that the lower city was for the criminal and the poor, but she had never expected it to look like this. Many buildings were boarded up with large holes in the roofs. The people were walking around in ragged clothing with dirt caking their skin. What horrified her the most were the number of women standing on corners wearing practically nothing and trying to get the attention of men. Some of them were even girls her own age.

    ¡°This is terrible,¡± Priscilla covered her mouth.

    ¡°Indeed,¡± Meridith sighed and gently touched Priscilla¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Our master has been trying to get the girls off the street by sending them to reputable establishments, but without alternative forms of work¡­ they simply come back to the streets.¡±

    ¡°And he¡¯s certain he can fix this,¡± Priscilla said doubtfully.

    ¡°See for yourself,¡±

    The carriage came to a stop in front of a three-story building. The rafters were pristine and the walls clean. The windows were spotless as they reflected the sunlight and lamps properly lined to building so that they would bathe the area in light. The sign hung evenly above the door which depicted a red-headed woman hugging a longsword. It was completely out of place among the ruins.

    ¡°Incredible,¡± Priscilla gasped.

    ¡°Master Legion always takes care of his belongings,¡± Meridith chuckled, ¡°Shall we go in?¡±

    Kogna opened the carriage door and helped the four women down. Her guards dismounted their horses and eyed the surroundings. Meridith led them inside, and Priscilla was impressed with the building¡¯s interior just as much as the exterior. It was warm and inviting and the staff smiled at them as they entered.

    ¡°Kogna!¡± a girl around Priscilla¡¯s age ran up and hugged him, ¡°Welcome back.¡±

    ¡°How have you been kid,¡± Kogna smiled petting her head.

    ¡°Fine, but Teddy keeps smacking my butt,¡± she sneered at the boy who stood at the back, ¡°So I kick him between the legs just like you taught me, but I think he likes it.¡±

    ¡°Is that so,¡± Kogna gave the boy a toothy smile, ¡°You don¡¯t mind if I put your brother through the wringer, do you Ada?¡±

    ¡°Go right ahead,¡± a motherly blonde woman smiled as she held the boy down.

    ¡°Come on sis, I was just being affectionate!¡± Teddy cried as he tried to escape.

    Kogna grabbed the boy by the collar and took him into the back. His screams not dying despite the distance.

    ¡°That¡¯ll teach him,¡± The girl said proudly. She turned to Priscilla with a warm smile, ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Vaera. That¡¯s a pretty dress.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, I¡¯m Priscilla, and I like your dress too.¡±

    ¡°Vaera,¡± A woman who looked like an older version of the girl called out to her, ¡°You still have work that needs to be done.¡±

    ¡°Yes mama,¡± Vaera smiled and waved to Priscilla, ¡°I hope we get to be friends.¡±

    Priscilla watched as the girl disappeared, ¡°Who was that?¡±

    ¡°Vaera¡¯s a girl we took in along with her mother,¡± Meridith smiled fondly as she slowly walked through the room. Her hands clenched tightly, ¡°The poor girl was being sold on the streets. Virtues know what she had to go through. Then Kogna started hiring her to help around the tavern, and eventually we took them in.¡±

    ¡°I see master Legion started this project a long time ago,¡± Priscilla nodded in approval, ¡°Is that true for everyone else here?¡±

    ¡°For the most part,¡± Meridith said with a strange smile, ¡°Come, he¡¯s waiting downstairs. Ada, please get something to drink for our guests.¡± The busty blonde woman bowed.

    Priscilla followed Meridith downstairs. A smaller bar sat in the basement with a handful of tables spaced out. There were several pillows laid before a curtained box with the curtains closed. Meridith kneeled next to the box and gestured to a pillow in front of the box.

    ¡°Its¡¯ good to see you again, my lady,¡± Priscilla jumped as a voice came from the box.

    ¡°It¡¯s a pleasure to finally meet you, master Legion,¡± Priscilla¡¯s smile twitched as she sat down, ¡°I¡¯m glad you could meet with me.¡±

    ¡°It is¡­ a pleasant surprise,¡± master Legion chuckled, ¡°And to what do we owe this pleasure?¡±

    ¡°The Duke has agreed to your proposal,¡± Meridith slipped the contract into the box. Priscilla tried peeking inside, but she couldn¡¯t see anything. ¡°However, he wanted there to be oversight, so he appointed lady Priscilla as his representative.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s correct,¡± Priscilla said warmly, ¡°It¡¯ll be my responsibility to determine if your making good progress and to make sure that the money isn¡¯t being spent frivolously.¡±

    ¡°Why would we need oversight in spending our own money?¡±

    ¡°The Duke will be providing a portion of the funds,¡± Meridith replied with a smile, ¡°He felt responsible for not properly taking care of the slums, and by helping, he can have a reason to oversee us.¡±

    ¡°That makes sense. Please forgive our flippant comment,¡± Master Legion said solemnly.

    Priscilla smiled, ¡°I understand, but wouldn¡¯t it be proper for us to have this conversation face to face,¡± Meridith¡¯s eyes widened, and she started fidgeting.

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡±

    Priscilla¡¯s smile faded as the curtains opened, and she couldn¡¯t stop the gasp escaping. The man in the box looked half dead. His pale grey skin hung off his bones, and his eyes were bloodshot with red irises. Stringy white hair hung off the left side of his head with a tattoo decorating the right side. A thick black mantle hung around his body.

    ¡°We know we¡¯re not handsome, but that¡¯s simply rude,¡± Master Legion chuckled.

    ¡°I-I-I¡¯m sorry,¡± Priscilla swallowed trying not to stare, ¡°I¡­ wasn¡¯t expecting this.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s fine, my dear,¡± Master Legion sighed, ¡°This is a result from a flawed experiment, which cursed us. Now, the day weakens us, so we try to stay in doors as much as possible.¡±

    ¡°I-I see,¡± Priscilla laughed nervously, ¡°We should discuss your plans, shouldn¡¯t we.¡±Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    ¡°We think it would be better if we showed you. Meridith, why don¡¯t you take her grace on a tour of the slums.¡±

    ¡°Of course, master,¡± Meridith smiled, ¡°May I have a word with you before we leave?¡±

    ¡°Very well,¡± Master Legion smiled, ¡°Your Grace, please feel free to ask of anything while you wait.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for the hospitality.¡± Priscilla rose and followed Mina upstairs.

    <hr>

    Meridith waited until the door closed and the footsteps disappeared before turning to Reviled. She cocked an eyebrow with a playful smile, ¡°Don¡¯t take this the wrong way master, but your true look is much more handsome.¡±

    Reviled chuckled as his face wavered, ¡°We¡¯ll take the compliment, but we couldn¡¯t let the princess see what we truly are,¡± It tossed aside the cloak, ¡°We need this to be a long, fruitful relationship.¡±

    ¡°I understand,¡± Meridith laughed, ¡°I¡¯m simply taking her grace for a stroll around the block, right?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± one of Reviled¡¯s familiars appeared on her shoulder, ¡°We¡¯ll be joining you like this, that way we can explain our plans. Make sure you take her to the lot where we want to build our mercenary house.¡±

    ¡°As you wish,¡± Meridith bowed before heading upstairs.

    Meridith smiled at the sight around the hall. Most of the guards lingered around the bar, flirting with Ada and Yula while Kogna and Mina caught up. Priscilla sat by the cold fireplace sipping on a glass of juice while Vaera happily spoke with her. Priscilla seemed to enjoy listening to the girl talk about how great her life has been lately.

    ¡°I¡¯m ready to take you on a tour my lady,¡± Meridith smiled, ¡°If you want, we can have Vaera join us?¡±

    ¡°Can I?¡± Vaera beamed at her.

    ¡°I¡¯d love for her to come,¡± Priscilla said, ¡°But doesn¡¯t she have work to do?¡±

    ¡°We can give her some time off,¡± Reviled¡¯s familiar climbed down the chair.

    Priscilla looked worried at the rat, but forced a smile, ¡°Thank you for indulging me,¡± she rose from her chair and locked arms with Vaera.

    Meridith led the way. Kogna pulled the guards away from the two women and followed closely behind Priscilla. Right outside the tavern was a large open square with ramshackle buildings around the perimeter. A few broken and disjointed stalls filled the area with a closed off well in the center. Several of the citizens eyed them nervously but left them alone.

    ¡°We would first like to clean up this square,¡± Reviled¡¯s familiar perched on Priscilla¡¯s shoulder, ¡°We¡¯d start by repairing the well and adding streetlamps around the area. By properly lighting up the area, we can discourage criminal activity.¡±

    ¡°It would also help your own business stand out,¡± Priscilla scoffed.

    ¡°We won¡¯t deny it,¡± Reviled¡¯s rat nodded, ¡°Right now, we mainly cater to adventurers. They¡¯re the only ones brave enough to patronize our tavern. However, by securing this square we can make it safer for other businesses as well.¡±

    Priscilla stopped at a stall selling makeshift talismans, ¡°Aren¡¯t these buildings already owned?¡± she pulled out a silver coin to purchase two, but the owner pushed it away and gave it to her instead.

    ¡°Be careful about showing your coin, my lady,¡± Reviled chuckled as Meridith slipped the woman several bronze coins, ¡°Bronze coins are the main currency here. Silver and gold will get you killed here,¡± Priscilla nodded as she handed one to Vaera and slipped the matching one around her neck. ¡°Most of these buildings are abandoned. They¡¯re mainly being used by squatters as temporary shelters which is why they¡¯re in such disrepair.¡±

    ¡°So, you want to buy them and fix them up?¡± Priscilla smiled as Vaera pulled her along to a food stall. She hummed in delight as ate the strange, puffed pastry.

    ¡°Correct,¡± Reviled¡¯s rat happily ate the small piece Vaera gave it. The servant girl laughed at Priscilla¡¯s horrified look. ¡°We¡¯ll rebuild these buildings and then convert them to proper stores. The citizens we hire to man the stores will be allowed to live in them for free.¡±

    ¡°And what stores will you open?¡± Priscilla feed the rat another piece. The guards tightened their formations when a group of rough looking men approached, but they backed away when weapons were drawn.

    ¡°We¡¯ll start with the basics,¡± Reviled¡¯s rat pointed to each building, ¡°We¡¯ll turn that one into a grocer, that one a general store. That building would make an excellent forge with a stone mason next door, and across from them will be a tailor and carpenter.¡±

    ¡°Do you think artisans will want to live here?¡± Priscilla scratched her chin looking at the buildings but kept an eye out on the groups hanging around the alleys.

    ¡°They won¡¯t be masters, but there are plenty of apprentices wanting to free themselves from their master¡¯s yoke,¡± Reviled chuckled, ¡°They won¡¯t have the skills and reputation, so we can make sure they don¡¯t overcharge the citizens in this area.¡±

    Priscilla looked at Reviled surprised, ¡°You thought this through,¡±

    Reviled¡¯s familiar climbed down her arm and into her hand, ¡°Of course,¡± Reviled stared up at her, ¡°A city is not made from a single building. Everything has its place, and when people don¡¯t have a space of their own, then the city can¡¯t function properly,¡± the familiar gestured to the end of the square, ¡°That¡¯s why it¡¯s important for people to know their strengths and weaknesses. That way others can compensate for those weaknesses.¡±

    ¡°Are you royalty?¡± Priscilla stared at the rat in awe, ¡°You must be considering your skill.¡±

    Reviled laughed heartily, ¡°You could say that,¡± the rat smirked at her, ¡°Our mother made sure we could fulfill our role.¡±

    Priscilla nodded, ¡°Would you be willing to share it with me,¡± she smiled shyly, ¡°I¡­ want to support my brother as much as I can, so I want to become his magister.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s odd seeing a noble so loyal to their family,¡± Reviled¡¯s rat cocked its head, ¡°Normally, they try to usurp their sibling¡¯s power.¡±

    ¡°Not us,¡± Priscilla snapped, ¡°Father raised us to support each other. That way, our domain can be prosperous.¡±

    ¡°Very well, my lady,¡± Reviled bowed, ¡°We will gladly share our knowledge with you,¡±

    Priscilla smiled but then stared at the three ruined buildings in front of them, ¡°And what¡¯s going here?¡±

    ¡°This will be our mercenary headquarters,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Truthfully, we see it more as a knightly order, but without a noble patron we can¡¯t call it that.¡±

    ¡°So, these mercenaries will be responsible for maintaining order,¡± Priscilla nodded as if she could foresee it, ¡°Will this order have a name?¡±

    ¡°Knights of the Withered Thorn,¡±

    Priscilla¡¯s eyes sparkled, ¡°I love that tale!¡± she gushed, nearly crushing the rat, ¡°The story of the Withered Knight is such a tragically romantic story.¡±

    ¡°Who¡¯s the Withered Knight?¡± Vaera looked at them quizzically.

    ¡°How have you not heard the Tale of the Withered Knight!¡± Priscilla shook her friend, ¡°It¡¯s about a knight who was cursed to walk the world for all eternity, and he goes around saving damsels and punishing evildoers, but because of his curse he can never know love.¡±

    ¡°We take it you approve of the name?¡± Reviled chuckled.

    ¡°Yes!¡± Priscilla¡¯s smile grew, ¡°I¡¯ll even talk with my father about making them proper knights. I can see it now.¡± Her eyes glazed over as she fell into the daydream, ¡°Will Sir Kogna be one of them?¡±

    Reviled¡¯s rat peaked around her, ¡°For you my lady, yes,¡±

    Priscilla released a loud squeal that filled the square, and she kissed the familiar without thinking, ¡°Thank you! I¡¯ll see to it he gets a proper title,¡± she gazed lovingly at Kogna, ¡°How does Knight of the Wilted Lavender sound?¡± Kogna let out a deep sigh.

    ¡°I think Knight of the Fallen Wind works better,¡± Meridith chuckled.

    ¡°How about Umra dia Kubonshiri?¡± Mina smiled, ¡°It roughly means Blade of the Deadly Gale.¡±

    Kogna groaned, ¡°Please stop,¡±

    Priscilla laughed as she handed the rat over to Meridith, ¡°Thank you for sharing your plan with me,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯m excited to see the change we can make.¡±

    ¡°As are we,¡± Reviled said gleefully.

    They showed Priscilla back to her carriage, and they watched as the carriage rolled down the street. Vaera waved enthusiastically at the lady who waved back at her. As it disappeared, they entered the tavern. Reviled came up from the basement to join the others.

    ¡°Thank you for letting me accompany you master,¡± Vaera bowed with a bright smile, ¡°I had fun,¡± she fluttered her big eyelashes at it, ¡°May I accompany you when she visits, please?¡±

    ¡°Of course, sweet child,¡± Reviled petted her, ¡°We¡¯re glad you enjoyed today.¡±

    Vaera grabbed a chair, climbed on top of it, and kissed the monster¡¯s cheek before running off into the kitchen.

    ¡°That¡¯s the second girl to kiss you today,¡± Meridith said with a teasing smile, ¡°Are you trying to make me jealous?¡±

    ¡°Perhaps,¡± Reviled chuckled as it headed back downstairs, ¡°We¡¯re surprised that her grace was familiar with the Withered Knight.¡±

    ¡°Why,¡± Meridith said, ¡°It¡¯s a popular story among young girls, especially those around her age. I thought that¡¯s why you chose it.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re surprised because the Withered Knight was an avatar,¡± Reviled held out its hand and the Tome of Elithis materialized, ¡°He was the avatar of Ulmerak, the Dead God of Deception.¡±

    Meridith gasped, ¡°Truly,¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Reviled flipped through the pages, ¡°Now that¡¯s interesting, apparently, Ulmerak¡¯s avatars parade themselves as heroes, and are the protagonists of many fairy tales.¡±

    ¡°That would break a lot of girls¡¯ hearts,¡± Meridith smirked with a shake of her head, ¡°Many girls have fallen in love with those heroes.¡±

    ¡°Then there¡¯s something we could learn from these tales,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Be a dear, and buy these books for us.¡±

    ¡°You best be careful master,¡± Meridith smiled sweetly, ¡°A woman¡¯s heart is a fickle thing.¡± She turned around and headed upstairs, her hips swinging sensually with each step.

 The Witch of Sorrow

    Meridith sat in a plush chair with her hands clasped in her lap. She took several deep, slow breaths as she dived into her memories. Anger started to burn within her as she remembered the night Geran forced himself on her. She remembered her foot striking his face and coming back warm with his blood. Despite the struggle of getting him outside, she felt a twisted sense of satisfaction as she remembered Reviled¡¯s tongue piercing his skill.

    ¡°Ignite Flame,¡± Meridith said, and she felt warmth wash over.

    Meridith opened her eyes and stared at the floating ball of fire in front of her. It¡¯s red and orange color was dim, and it flickered as she struggled to maintain the flow of magic. It wasn¡¯t anything impressive, but she couldn¡¯t stop the feeling of accomplishment. However, the flame instantly vanished.

    ¡°Not bad for your first spell,¡± the old witch Esmeral said, ¡°However, you¡¯re focus could still use some work. You must maintain the flow of mana to the spell even if you are expressing another emotion.¡±

    Meridith nodded, ¡°Do you have any advice you can give me?¡±

    Emeral stroked her chin, ¡°Try picturing your emotions as threads that tie the appropriate mana to the spell,¡± she said, ¡°Whenever you¡¯re changing emotions you connect a new string to the spell while cutting off the old one.¡±

    ¡°I see,¡± Meridith smiled.

    ¡°Honestly child, each witch has their own method for casting spells, that¡¯s why I called it an artform,¡± Esmeral sat next to her, ¡°I can teach you the basics, but you must make it your own. The question you should be asking yourself is what kind of witch do you want to be.¡±

    ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t understand,¡±

    ¡°When a witch comes into her own, she is given a moniker,¡± Esmeral chuckled, ¡°I used to be known as the Witch of Seduction, but many also called me the Enchantress.¡± Esmeral laughed harder at Meridith¡¯s grimace, ¡°I¡¯ll have you know I used to be an amazing beauty.¡±

    Esmeral snapped her fingers, and an illusion stood before them. It showed a woman who was slightly shorter than Meridith, but the woman¡¯s beauty was on a different level. Her sun kissed skin and ebony black hair made her exotic with her sky-blue eyes. Her clothing consisted of a silk brassier that barely covered her chest, and a sash around her waist that only covered her nether regions.

    Meridith looked skeptical to the old witch, ¡°That was you?¡±

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t always an old hag,¡± Esmeral looked fondly at the illusion, ¡°I come from a small nation to the east, on the southern edge of the Shek¡¯ Syra desert. It¡¯s the only nation that welcomes witches since the queen herself is one.¡±

    ¡°How¡¯d you end up here?¡± Meridith said quietly.

    ¡°Witches aren¡¯t welcomed in this world,¡± Esmeral sighed, ¡°To keep the other nations from fearing us, it¡¯s expected for witches to go on expeditions and create their own covens. Of course, the nation openly welcomes the young for training and the elderly for teaching, and to keep the population well maintained, the men are¡­ lavished with affection.¡±

    ¡°Wait¡­ are you talking about Quza?¡± Meridith gasped, ¡°I thought that was just a rumor!¡±

    Esmeral smiled slyly, ¡°Well, they may be exaggerated,¡± she chuckled, ¡°However, Quza needs men for hard labor, so we try to incentive them to stay, and of course, these rumors help weed out the weak from the strong. If we¡¯re going to debase ourselves for men, it should be the ones who can strengthen our nation, right?¡± she turned back to the illusion, ¡°However, I wanted to explore the world, so I traveled. When I was young, I was¡­ painfully na?ve.¡¯

    ¡°How so?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to use my magic to help women fall in love,¡± Esmeral¡¯s smile turned sad, ¡°It started with love potions, and perfumes to help them capture their intended¡¯s heart, but¡­ they soon started coming to me for other reasons. Because they used tricks, they started questioning their lovers commitments, so they had me test their loyalty, and they all failed. Time and time again, I was driven away because the very women who used me were angry when I seduced their lovers at their request,¡± Esmeral gave Meridith a stern look, ¡°That¡¯s why you should truly think about how you want to use your magic.¡±

    Meridith nodded, ¡°I¡¯ll definitely give it some thought,¡± she said standing up, ¡°It¡¯s getting late. I¡¯ll be back tomorrow."

    Meridith stepped out of the room and into the witch¡¯s store front. Esmeral¡¯s granddaughters manned the shop and lined the shelves with potions and cosmetics. In one corner were plush animal dolls in a wooden basket. Meridith stopped to admire a glass bottle of lavender scented perfume before leaving.

    ¡°Thank you for visiting,¡± Esmeral¡¯s granddaughters addressed her.

    Meridith moved through the streets of the middle city. The other citizens were finishing up their day but did not want to go home yet. The lamplighters were out igniting the lamps as the sun slowly disappeared. Meridith stepped to the side of the road as a group of guards went by. Rage and fear warred in her as she stared down to the ground and clenched her hands. When they disappeared, Meridith continued down the road.

    She entered the lower city. A week had gone by since Priscilla had visited, but she had sent a message through Kogna about getting the mercenary group outfitted as quickly as possible. Danien hadn¡¯t responded well to the idea of being pseudo-knights, but Reviled had put those thoughts to rest when he branded the thug. Danien and his men were doing a decent job in suppressing the weaker gangs and keeping the main street safe. A clatter to the side drew her attention.

    Several guards stepped out of the alley, and Meridith ducked into a side street to hide. Despite the darkened sky, there was still enough light to see their faces. A sneer came to her face. Meridith recognized them from the night that Maelon visited the tavern, and she watched as they moved down the street out of the lower city. She stepped out of the side street, but the cries that came from the alley stopped her. She gasped when she stepped into the alley.

    A woman laid on the floor with torn cloths. The darkness obscured most of her, but the stench made it clear what happened. When Meridith kneeled to inspect the woman, she noticed the bronze coins scattered on the ground.

    ¡°Do you need help?¡± Meridith whispered.

    ¡°N-no, I¡¯m fine,¡± the woman sniffled as she gathered the coins, ¡°My last clients were a little aggressive is all.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re independent,¡± Meridith sighed, ¡°Come with me, I know a place where you can get cleaned up.¡± The prostitute slowly rose to her feet as she clutched the few coins the guards had given her.

    Meridith led the woman down the street with a comforting arm around her. The prostitute¡¯s glazed eyes stayed straight ahead as she desperately tried hold back the tears. The warm light of the tavern welcomed them, and Meridith led her in through the back. Pain gripped her heart when she noticed that the prostitute was practically a girl, and the blood leaking down her legs.

    ¡°Lady Meridith, what happened?¡± Yula ran up to them.

    ¡°I found this poor girl in the street,¡± Meridith gently brushed the girl¡¯s hair, ¡°Could you sneak her upstairs please. And get a bath ready along with some clothes.¡±

    ¡°Right away,¡± Yula took the girl in a motherly embraced, and the prostitute started bawling, ¡°There, there dear,¡± Yula whispered, ¡°You¡¯re safe here.¡± Meridith fought back tears as she watched Yula take the girl upstairs.

    ¡°Poor child,¡± Meridith wiped the tears from her eyes as Ada approached, ¡°Is she independent?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡± Meridith cleared her throat, ¡°I found her in an alley after some guards¡­¡± she covered her mouth trying to hold back from vomiting. The memories of that night surfaced, and she could feel Maelon¡¯s hands running along her body.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Ada took her in an embrace, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she whispered into her ear.

    ¡°For¡­ what,¡± Meridith choked out a sob.

    ¡°For letting me go home early that night,¡± Ada sighed, ¡°If I had stayed, then I could have saved you the horror of that night.¡±

    Horror dawned on Meridith, ¡°Then Maelon would have¡­¡±

    Ada placed a finger on Meridith¡¯s lips, ¡°I¡¯m a prostitute,¡± she smiled sadly, ¡°I¡¯m used to my partners being¡­ rough,¡± she released a broken chuckle, ¡°Besides, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m worth sacrificing yourself for anyway.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wrong!¡± Meridith snapped returning the hug, ¡°I would have sacrificed myself for you as well. You have a brother who loves you, and Oria is your best friend. Mina sees you as an older sister, and I know Kogna is fond of you too. You¡¯re important to us.¡± The tears freely flowed down her cheeks.

    ¡°Thank you,¡± Ada cried, ¡°It¡¯s nice to know that there is someone who would feel sorrow for my suffering. It reminds me that I¡¯m not alone.¡±

    Meridith chuckled as she wiped away the tears, ¡°As the master like to say, a city is not made of a single building.¡±

    ¡°What does that even mean?¡± Ada laughed along with her.

    ¡°I think it means that we need to support each other,¡± Meridith shook her head. ¡°Ada, do you want to go shopping with me tomorrow? We can do it before my lessons.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love to,¡±

    <hr>

    Meridith stood in the center of an empty room in Esmeral¡¯s shop with a clay mannequin standing in front of her. She held her hands up and stared at the opening in her hands, and she watched the mana flowing around aimlessly. She remembered that night with the prostitute, and she felt sorrow, anger, and fear all over again. The emotions took on the form of spectral hands, Reviled¡¯s hands, and she imaged them grasping the currents of natural mana and pulled them into her hands. The clawed hands tied the currents together and wound it into a ball.

    ¡°Ignite Flame,¡± Meridith pictured the ball bursting into ghostly blue and white fire. She smiled when a ball of fire appeared. Meridith threw the fireball, and it splashed against clay doll, leaving a small burnt mark.

    ¡°Well done,¡± Esmeral nodded with satisfaction, ¡°You¡¯ve improved greatly over this last week.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve only learned one spell,¡± Meridith laughed, but yelped when the old woman smacked her with her cane.

    ¡°One spell is still a spell,¡± Esmeral scoffed, ¡°Back in Quza, I¡¯ve seen it take children months before they can use a spell,¡± she smiled, ¡°So, what drove you?¡±

    Meridith rubbed her head, ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s your motivation?" Esmeral sighed, ¡°This kind of growth is seen when someone finds a reason to get better. So, what kind of witch do you want to be?¡±

    Meridith stared at the floor, ¡°Several days ago, I¡­ came upon a young woman,¡± she said quietly, ¡°She was assaulted by city guards, and I¡­ couldn¡¯t do anything. I want to use my magic for them. To let them know that someone out there feels sorrow for them.¡±

    Esmeral squinted with a frown, ¡°Is this for them, or you,¡±

    ¡°Of course it¡¯s for them!¡± Meridith snapped, ¡°She was the one who suffered, not me.¡±

    Esmeral sighed deeply, ¡°Be careful with your motivations,¡± she said, ¡°Using your magic for others can sometimes be more trouble than it¡¯s worth. What happened to the girl?¡±

    ¡°I convinced master Legion to hire her,¡± Meridith took several deep breaths, ¡°I suggested we train her to be a clerk for his new mercenary guild.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about that,¡± Esmeral smirked, ¡°He¡¯s coming into the role of King rather well. However, I''ve seen storms on the horizon.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°There is an agent of Shecoga in the city, although I don¡¯t know who,¡± Esmeral¡¯s smirk turned dark, ¡°The Virtue of Mercy has set her sights on your master, and she plans to stop him. Come, I have something for you.¡± Meridith followed Esmeral into the next room, and the elderly woman pulled out a thick leather-bound book a chest. ¡°This is my spell book, take it.¡±

    ¡°Why are you giving this to me?¡±

    ¡°Because I¡¯m leaving by the end of the month,¡± Esmeral said seriously, ¡°I¡¯m getting my granddaughters out of this city before tragedy happens. However, I¡¯ll still train you until we leave.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re leaving!¡± Meridith gasped, ¡°But what about your shop?¡±

    ¡°Your master is free to buy it,¡± Esmeral laughed, ¡°I will not subject my granddaughters to war between gods, and honestly, I hope your master wins. We witches have no love for the Virtues and their church,¡± Esmeral patted the book, ¡°All my accumulated knowledge is here. If you study it daily, then you should be able to do everything we can.¡±

    Meridith groaned as she picked the book up, ¡°Thank you, I should get this back to the tavern.¡±

    ¡°Here,¡± Esmeral placed a hand on the book, and it became lighter to carry, ¡°That spell should last until you get back.¡±

    ¡°Thanks,¡± Meridith smiled as she left.

    She left the shop and quickly made her way back to the tavern. There was still plenty of light left, so she was able to get home before the sun set. Yula, Ada and the girls were cleaning up and finishing the last-minute preparations before the customers arrived. She slipped upstairs to her room and laid the book onto her desk.

    She started flipping through the pages and was amazed at the wealth of knowledge on each page. Hexes, illusions, charms, and evocations spells were organized neatly in their own section of the book. There was even a section dedicated to alchemy which would prove useful in taking over Esmeral¡¯s shop. Meridith found a spell in the illusion section that interested her.

    Excitement surged through her, and she imagined Reviled¡¯s hand overlaid over her own. She grasped a single current of natural mana and ran a hand through her hair. A large smile came to her lips as her dark red hair turned stark white. She couldn¡¯t stop the laugh from escaping as she examined her reflection.

    She quickly dressed in her new pale blue dress. The gown hung off her shoulders showing her off her cleavage, and the ruffled sleeves ended at the elbow. She pinned her hair up into a bun and placed the large, wide-brimmed sun hat that matched her dress on her head.

    Meridith stepped into the kitchen, ¡°I need to run an errand,¡± she said as the girls gawked at her appearance, ¡°If the master asks for me, please tell him that I¡¯m busy.¡± She left the tavern before they could say anything.

    Meridith¡¯s heart pounded in her chest as night quickly fell. The excitement took on the form of Reviled¡¯s clawed hands, and they lovingly drifted at her side, grabbing at every current of mana they could. She imagined the hands wrapping her in the currents. A thick fog enveloped her, and she sneered since it was too thick to see through. She wandered aimlessly through the darkened streets until she heard the clanking of armor, and she quickly headed in the direction of the sound.

    Meridith heard the clanking get louder, and it was accompanied by the sounds of a woman moaning. Infuriated by the thick fog, she released a few flows of mana. It thinned out the fog, and she snarled at the sight in front of her.

    The moon provided enough light to show one guard standing at the edge of the alley keeping watch. In the alley, she could see the silhouettes of three people. She couldn¡¯t see what was happening but the sounds coming from the shadows told her enough.

    ¡°Hurry up,¡± the guard standing watched snapped.

    ¡°You¡¯ll get your turn,¡± a voice came from the shadows, ¡°We¡¯re breaking this one end for you.¡±

    ¡°We wouldn¡¯t need to hurry up, if there were more whores on the street,¡± another voice growled, ¡°But it seems all the independents are finding work somewhere else.¡± Choking sounds followed moans of pleasure, and a guard stepped out, ¡°You¡¯re next,¡± he said fixing his britches.

    Anger burned through Meridith. Memories of that terrible night echoed in her ears. She remembered the men¡¯s howling, and Maelon¡¯s groans. The feeling of powerlessness crept up behind her, and for a moment, she doubted herself. That is, until she saw the ghostly hands floating at her sides. Meridith reached out and intertwined her fingers in the ghostly image.

    Meridith rekindled the anger in her chest as she watched the guards swap places. She summoned more ghostly images of Reviled¡¯s hands, and each grabbed a separate stream of mana.

    ¡°Ignite Flame,¡± Six ghostly flames erupted around her.

    The guard noticed and tried looking at her from across the street. He took a step forward and she threw one of the fireballs at him. It shot through the air but struck the building behind him.

    ¡°Fuck, we¡¯re under attack!¡± The guard shouted as he drew his sword.

    ¡°Shit,¡± Meridith snarled as the spectral hand grabbed another current.

    The guard ran towards her, and Meridith ran down the street. She peaked over her shoulder and watched as the other two guards stepped out of the alley. They followed slowly as they fixed their pants. At least the girl is safe.

    Meridith turned into another alley. The six flames provided enough light for her to see, and she turned a corner. She had one of the hands stay by the edge as she stepped away from it. The guard shouted as he slashed at the air, the pale light showing his vicious smile turn to confusion when his sword struck the wooden wall. With her own twisted smile, Meridith ordered the flame to fly into the guard¡¯s face.

    ¡°Burn,¡± She sneered as she imagined the tears the girl, they assaulted, cried, ¡°Burn,¡± Her sneer turned upwards as she remembered the girl she had taken in, ¡°Burn!¡± Meridith cackled as the images of the girls disappeared and were replaced with image of Maelon.

    The small fireball erupted into a blazing inferno that engulfed the guard whole, and he screamed in agony as he ran away. Meridith couldn¡¯t stop herself, she chased after the guard, cackling all the way. The burning guard barely made it out of the alley before he fell to the ground. With a final gasp, he reached out to his two companions. The two guards shook as she stepped out of the alley, and the light from the flames illuminated their stained pants. They looked at their fallen companion and then ran away.

    Meridith watched the two guards disappear. Her laughter slowly faded into sobs, and she wiped her eyes. She extinguished the flames as she headed back up the street. The prostitute stumbled out of the alley with bruises along her arms and legs. Tears ran down the whore¡¯s cheeks as she held her jaw.

    The prostitute stared at Meridith in fear, but she held up a hand, ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± she said quietly, ¡°I¡¯m not going to hurt you,¡± Meridith swallowed when she saw how young the girl was, ¡°It¡¯s over now.¡± She gently hugged the girl. The prostitute started crying into her shoulder as she comforted her, ¡°They won¡¯t hurt you ever again.¡± Meridith couldn¡¯t stop her own tears from escaping.

 The Hunt Begins

    Halligan took a deep breath as he watched the people outside walk by. He was excited to begin hunting for the monster lurking within the city. The carriage stopped, and he pushed open the door and stepped outside. He stepped into the foyer of the cathedral and found Urielle kneeling in front of the statue of Shecoga.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to have kept you waiting Saint Urielle.¡± Halligan bowed. He kept his voice low in respect.

    ¡°You have nothing to apologize for.¡± Urielle smiled as she lit one of the candles. ¡°It gave me plenty of time to convey with the Virtue of Mercy.¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t her greatness tell us where the monster is?¡± Halligan gazed up at the statue, but then bowed deeply. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to offend.¡±

    Urielle laughed; it was a beautiful melody. ¡°None taken master Halligan.¡± Her smile faded a little as she took his arm ¡°Unfortunately, it doesn¡¯t work like that.¡± she glided alongside Halligan as he led her back to the carriage. ¡°When I pray to Shecoga, she replies with intuitions and inclinations. Think of it like reading the weather, one must put in a little work to deduce what the Virtues are saying.¡±

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there any way to talk with them directly?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s possible with the proper conduit.¡± Urielle pouted. ¡°If I had the Staff of Shecoga, then I¡¯d be able to speak with her directly. However¡­¡± She was blushing heavily. ¡°I¡¯m a little intimidated of taking the trial.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you could pass.¡± Halligan smiled confidently at her.

    Urielle¡¯s smile brightened. ¡°Thank you for the vote of confidence,¡± she said as Halligan helped her into the carriage. Halligan stepped in after her and the carriage started moving. ¡°Sir Emir and Sir Torrn are scouting the sewers, and Sir Neil, Sir Regald, and Sir Giale are trying to recruit adventurers from the Black Horn Guild.¡±

    ¡°Hopefully they¡¯ll be successful.¡± Halligan sighed. ¡°Elizar and I found a map of the sewers, but it was fraudulent. Bartholomew Decker provided false maps to hide his criminal activities.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a shame.¡± Urielle¡¯s sighed. ¡°Hopefully, we can get master Baron to help us.¡±

    Halligan nodded. The carriage slowly made its way through the streets and came to a stop in front of a large mansion. Halligan helped Urielle out of the carriage, and they both gasped at the sight. The front was in a horrendous state. The bushes were overgrown with the branches overhanging the street. The lawn was filled with weeds and grass was growing out of the cracks in the walkway. When they approached the door, they noticed the windows were in desperate need of cleaning, and the front steps needed sweeping. Halligan held onto Urielle¡¯s hand as they took the steps, and he knocked on the door.

    A beautiful blonde woman opened the door. ¡°May I help you?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re here to see master Baron.¡± Halligan cleared his throat. ¡°Is he here?¡±

    ¡°He is.¡± The woman let them pass before closing the door. ¡°Please follow me.¡±

    The inside of the mansion was worse than the outside. The foyer was barren with dust lining the floor showing where the furniture used to be. The maid led them up the stairs, and Halligan couldn¡¯t help but notice the outlines on the wall where pictures used to be. The mansion was a hollowed-out shell of the Decker¡¯s former wealth.

    The maid knocked on a set of double doors and peaked inside. ¡°Sir, you have some guests.¡±

    ¡°Let them in.¡± The maid stepped to the side to let them pass. Baron sat at a desk with his face buried in multiple stacks of paper. This appeared to be the only room that was still furnished. Baron looked up from his desk, and a shallow smile came to his lips. ¡°Sir Halligan, to what do I owe the pleasure?¡±

    ¡°I apologize for visiting unannounced.¡± Halligan took a deep breath. ¡°But I was wondering if you could help us with¡­¡± His eyes lingered on the maid by the door.

    ¡°Could you get our guests some tea Charolette.¡± The maid curtsied and closed the door. ¡°We¡¯re free to talk now, but I guess this has to do with the monster.¡±

    ¡°Yes, master Baron.¡± Urielle stepped forward. ¡°His Holiness has sent five paladins to aid Sir Halligan in hunting it, and I have been tasked by Shecoga to help them.¡±

    ¡°And you are?¡±

    ¡°This is Saint Urielle.¡± Halligan stood tall as he addressed her. ¡°Please show her the respect she deserves.¡±

    Baron stood and bowed. ¡°My apologies, lady saint,¡± he said, ¡°How may I be of service to you and his Holiness?¡±

    ¡°We need an accurate map of the sewers.¡± Urielle said politely.

    ¡°I see.¡± Baron chuckled as he headed to a drawer. ¡°It seems my father¡¯s pride is still haunting me.¡± he pulled out a thick leather folder. ¡°Here are the drafts concerning all of the changes he made to the sewers.¡± He handed over the leather pouch. Halligan opened the folder a pulled out a few of the parchments. ¡°You¡¯ll have to have a scribe make a proper map. My father became paranoid after the necromancer appeared.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for the help.¡± Urielle smiled warmly. ¡°Is there anything else you can tell us about this monster?¡±

    Baron tapped his chin and rummaged through the drawer again. ¡°Here it is.¡± He handed over another packet. ¡°These are the monster¡¯s schematics.¡±

    Halligan pulled out a paper and sneered at the image. ¡°That¡¯s it alright,¡±

    ¡°Truly horrific.¡± Urielle covered her mouth.

    ¡°You should also know that this thing goes by the name Reviled Legion,¡±

    ¡°A disgusting name,¡± Urielle whispered, ¡°I can see why Shecoga sent me here.¡± She turned to Baron. ¡°What was supposed to be its purpose.¡±Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.

    Baron sighed heavily. ¡°It was to be the perfect soldier.¡± He rubbed his face. ¡°One that doesn¡¯t have the weaknesses of the flesh and will be superior to the forces of the undead.¡± Charolette stepped back into the room with a tray of refreshments.

    Halligan slipped the paper back in the pouch. ¡°We¡¯ll have Elizar look over these. Maybe he¡¯ll figure something out.¡± He took a cup with a grateful smile. ¡°How have you been doing lately?¡±

    ¡°As best as I can be considering the situation.¡± Baron chuckled. ¡°I had to sell everything to pay the fine my no-good father left me. Thankfully, the individual who purchased the manor allows me to stay, and I¡¯ve been employed to run the brewery. It¡¯ll take some time, but I should get back on my feet soon.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m glad to hear that.¡± Halligan smiled in relief. ¡°I¡¯m sure with a little effort, you¡¯ll get out from under your father¡¯s shadow. I¡¯d hate to see you suffer for something you had not control over.¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, my friend, the world doesn¡¯t work that way.¡± Baron¡¯s smile twisted in discomfort. ¡°Sometimes you can¡¯t change things no matter how hard you try. Right now, I¡¯m simply trying to survive.¡±

    ¡°Well, let me know if you need anything.¡± Halligan smiled. ¡°We should get back to the cathedral.¡± Baron waved at them as Charolette led them out of the manor.

    They settled into the carriage. ¡°Do you mind if we go shopping first.¡± Urielle smiled at him. ¡°There¡¯s some supplies I want to get before we begin our hunt.¡± Halligan nodded, trying to stare at her.

    <hr>

    ¡°Why do we have to search the sewers?¡± Emir groaned as he covered his mouth. ¡°I can¡¯t stand the smell.¡±

    ¡°Stop whining.¡± Torrn growled at his companion. ¡°You¡¯re a paladin of Yaniel. Isn¡¯t it your responsibility to investigate signs of corruption.¡±

    Emir snarled at Torrn. Despite them being roughly the same age, Torrn was a hulking wall of a man. He had to duck under a set of pipes because of his size. To compliment his large bulk, Torrn carried a tower shield strapped to his back, and a massive, spiked mace on his hip. It wasn¡¯t surprising considering he was a paladin of Rook¡¯hym.

    Emir on the other hand was the complete opposite. He didn¡¯t have to even duck when passing under the same set of pipes. He growled at the constant reminder of his short stature. Emir¡¯s right arm started to throb from the weight of holding up his torch, so he moved it to his left hand. As he shook the pain from his thin arm, he couldn¡¯t help but stare at the massive trunks that belonged to Torrn. They¡¯ve been searching the sewers for hours and the tanned defender hadn¡¯t even swapped once. What would you expect from someone who spent most of their time studying.

    ¡°I do want to get to the bottom of this.¡± Emir snapped. ¡°I¡¯m simply tired of mapping this damned sewer.¡± He yelped when he ran into Torrn¡¯s back. ¡°Yaniel save me! Why¡¯d you stop.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s something up ahead,¡±

    Emri leaned around and noticed a shadowy lump in the middle of the walkway. There was whimpering coming from the darkness, and they watched in horror as a claw entered the light. A wererat pulled itself across the stone with blood trailing behind it.

    ¡°No. No. No. No. No. No,¡± it babbled as it continued to crawl. ¡°Gotta get away.¡±

    ¡°Disgusting,¡± Emir spat.

    The wererat stared up at them, ¡°Go away!¡± It hissed. ¡°You¡¯ll draw it right to us. I¡­ don¡¯t want to die.¡±

    ¡°Are you talking about the metal monster?¡± Torrn kneeled next to the rat.

    ¡°Decker¡¯s monster, no,¡± the wererat whimpered, ¡°You can at least reason with it.¡± its breathing became erratic. ¡°I¡¯m talking about the Red Cap.¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s the Red Cap?¡± the paladin¡¯s looked to each other in worry.

    ¡°It¡¯s a monster the likes no one has ever seen before.¡± The rat started cackling. ¡°When Decker¡¯s monster installed its puppet king, some of us ran away before we could be enslaved. We stumbled upon the Red Cap when we were planning an ambush.¡± It slammed its fists onto the floor. ¡°We thought it would be easy. It didn¡¯t look all that terrifying, but we didn¡¯t realize how powerful it was.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re trying to tell you to run!¡± The wererat scratched their boots. ¡°It rides a giant insect, the likes I¡¯ve never seen before. It can summon lightning and thunder from its fists, and you¡¯ll die if you so much as touch it.¡± it pulled on its ears. ¡°My friend bit off its head, but it didn¡¯t die! It got back to its feet, and my friend died soon after. That¡¯s when the insect went mad and tore everyone apart.¡±

    A strange sound filled the tunnel. It sounded like¡­ singing. A high-pitched tune echoed off the stone walls and was soon followed by a deep screeching. The paladins stared into the darkness as pattering followed the singing.

    ¡°It¡¯s coming!¡± The wererat sniveled, trying to crawl away. ¡°It¡¯s coming. It¡¯s coming. It¡¯s coming.¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s get out of here!¡± Torrn grabbed the wererat by its fur.

    Emir ran as quickly as he could, but the sounds from the monster kept growing louder. Torrn¡¯s large size kept him from being able to see the monster. He noticed a corner up ahead and threw his torch further down the tunnel before turning. Hopefully, the light from that torch would draw the monster¡¯s attention. A high-pitched howl sent shivers down his spine, and it drove him to push through the pain in his chest.

    For a moment, the pattering stopped, but then it started up again behind them. They continued running, praying for a gate to appear, and their prayers were answered when sunlight bathed a large portion of the sewers through the barred gate. Emir used all his strength to push open the metal door and up the stone steps to the city streets. Huffing, they both looked back and noticed the black carapace and ruby eyes staring up at them. Its inner mandibles clacked in anger, and it scurried off as it was too big to fit through the iron door.

    ¡°What was that?¡± Torrn swallowed as he wiped the sweat away.

    ¡°That looked like an Elithan ant.¡± Emir replied through shallow breaths. ¡°But I couldn¡¯t tell which one. Virtues, I hope it isn¡¯t a queen.¡±

    ¡°We should let the others know. Looks like this hunt became more difficult.¡± Torrn stormed down the alley with the wererat slung over his shoulder.

    <hr>

    Halligan looked at the other paladins as they gathered around the central table. The maps of the sewers were laid out before showing the plans for the upper, middle, and lower levels of the sewers. A wererat sat in the corner bound with rope. Its eyes were glassy and distant, and it mumbled under its breath.

    ¡°So, you¡¯re saying there is another monster in the sewers.¡± Sir Giale groaned as he rubbed his eyes. ¡°And it¡¯s in command of an Elithan ant. Is such a thing even possible?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid so.¡± Emir nodded; his face still pale from their endeavor. ¡°The Church records show that several cultists and necromancer have used compulsion magic to control various monsters to a certain degree of success. I suspect that this Red Cap has done the same thing.¡± The wererat whimpered at the name.

    ¡°Were you aware of this other monster Sir Halligan?¡± Urielle looked at him with worry.

    Halligan shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was unaware that there was something so dangerous in the sewers.¡± he glanced over to the wererat. ¡°Not to mention, it looks like Reviled Legion has enslaved the city wererats too.¡±

    ¡°Which means he essentially has an army.¡± Sir Niel sighed. ¡°Which means the odds are against us.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d rather deal with an army of wererats than undead,¡± Sir Torrn replied, ¡°If the Church will aid in paying the adventurers, we can open as many wererat hunting quests as we want.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s right.¡± Urielle looked them all over. ¡°We all know from experience that wererats aren¡¯t that big a threat. If we can weaken Reviled Legion¡¯s forces, then that should draw it out of hiding. As for this Red Cap, we don¡¯t have enough information yet to deal with it.¡±

    ¡°As long as the elithan ant isn¡¯t a queen we can deal with it whenever we want.¡± Emir nodded. ¡°Honestly, it sounded like Red Cap will help in fighting against the wererats. I say we focus on the machine and then try to kill this other monster.¡± They all nodded in agreement.

    ¡°Then we have a plan.¡± Halligan held up another packet. ¡°I¡¯ll take these to Elizar. Hopefully, he¡¯ll be able to make sense of these schematics.¡±

    ¡°Mind if I take a look at those too.¡± Emir held up his hand. ¡°I¡¯d like to make a copy of them.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Halligan smiled victoriously. ¡°Now, let¡¯s begin this hunt.¡±

 Iâ€™m a Gam-Gam

    Danien scratched his left shoulder. The slave crest branded into his flesh still burned, but the heavy purse at his side made up for it. The soft cloth felt strange against his skin. He was used to the rough clothes normally worn by the lower citizens, and the finer garments felt like they were about to fall off his body. It felt¡­ wrong, especially since they were walking through the sewers.

    ¡°Is something wrong Danien?¡± Reviled looked back at him.

    ¡°No boss, I¡¯m all good.¡± Danien smiled as he tried to hide his discomfort. He hadn¡¯t expected the new king to be a towering metal monster.

    ¡°Address the master properly.¡± Meridith scowled at him.

    ¡°How come?¡± Danien snapped. ¡°Oria gets to call him boss.¡±

    Baron gently placed a hand on Danien¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s perception,¡± he said, ¡°You¡¯re leading a group of knights. That means you need to act in a manner that appeases the upper echelons.¡± Danien groaned.

    ¡°They¡¯re correct.¡± Reviled chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s why you are to shadow Baron until we¡¯re ready to create the order.¡±

    ¡°Yes sir.¡± Danien readjusted the cape over his left shoulder. ¡°Forgive my rudeness, lady Meridith.¡±

    Meridith smiled. ¡°That¡¯s quite alright, Sir Danien. However, I would use the word insolence instead of rudeness. Expanding your vocabulary will help with the illusion.¡±

    ¡°Thank you for the advice.¡± Danien nodded. ¡°This is getting tiring boss.¡± Reviled laughed which sent a shiver down his spine. ¡°Why are we in the sewers?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re checking in on our other forces,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Apparently, they have something to show us.¡±

    Danien looked at Reviled in confusion but continued to follow. When they rounded a corner, he gasped at the sight. A makeshift wooden wall blocked the tunnel in front of them. It was lashed together with rope, and had broken weapons and shield strapped to it. a large double gate sat open with two wererat guards standing at attention.

    The wererats saluted when they approached. ¡°Welcome back master!¡± They bowed as they passed.

    Danien was amazed at the sight of the wererat camp. He knew they existed, but he pictured them to be like rat nests. Nothing but junk piled together in a great heap, instead he stared at a functioning tent city. It reminded him a lot of the slums. Wererats sat by tents and stalls hawking wares. There was a band at what he guessed was a makeshift bar, and he was surprised to see a blacksmith pounding out a pan from an old breastplate. The colorful tents gave the camp a beauty that was accentuated by the lamps made from broken bottles.

    The wererats eyed them as they passed, but none seemed to concern. A group of wererat kids stared at them in awe as they passed. They came to an intersection when a loud shriek came from the other side.

    Danien shook as a giant ant with a large trident shaped head crest approached from the other side. It was easily eight feet tall and it was wide enough that it had to walk over the canal. He was shocked at the sight that he didn¡¯t notice the small mushroom riding on its head while singing.

    ¡°Big Meanie!¡± The mushroom stood up waving at them with both arms. The ant cried too with its antenna twitching happily.

    ¡°Cappy,¡± Reviled said, ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°Scaredy Mouse asked me to help find some of his friends that were lost.¡± Cappy gave them a pout. ¡°I tried to help them, but they hit me!¡± The ant clicked angrily. ¡°It hurt my feelings at first, but then one bit my head, and then I realized they were hungry.¡± Cappy nodded sagely. ¡°If being Antwuan¡¯s mama has taught me anything: it¡¯s that a good meal makes everyone happy. So, I¡¯m going to tell Scaredy Mouse to throw a party!¡±

    ¡°We see.¡± Reviled chuckled.

    ¡°Boss,¡± Danien whispered, ¡°Why are you talking to a mushroom, and what¡¯s with the giant ant?¡±

    ¡°They are part of our group.¡± Reviled patted the Antwuan¡¯s head.

    ¡°Yeah, we¡¯re the leader!¡± Cappy cheered.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to see Rench. Care to come?¡± Reviled hummed.

    Cappy gave them a dumb smile. ¡°Okay, let¡¯s go see Crafty Mouse.¡±

    Danien tried to keep close as the giant ant followed behind. He yelped when the insect¡¯s antenna gently brushed against his cheek and arms.

    ¡°No! Antwuan, behave.¡± Cappy scolded her pet. ¡°Sorry, he¡¯s in his rebellious phase.¡±

    ¡°She, Cappy,¡± Reviled called, ¡°Antwuan¡¯s a female.¡±

    ¡°Nooooo.¡± Cappy snickered. ¡°Antwuan¡¯s a boy. That¡¯s why I named him Antwuan.¡±

    Reviled growled but ignored the comment. They continued down the tunnels with the wererats eyeing them in fear. Danien wasn¡¯t sure if it was because of the machine or the ant.

    They slowly made their way through the bustling markets into a section of the camp that was less crowded. Instead of tents, trash was piled alongside the tunnel walls with the rats scurrying through them. An old rat was organizing broken pieces of glass bottles and using the torchlight to shine color on the wall. A slim rat in a wrap dress sifted through torn pieces of cloth, she set aside any that had bright floral patterns. A large rat was using a broken hammer to remove the bent, rusted nails from broken boards of wood.

    ¡°What are they doing?¡± Danien looked at them in confusion.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    ¡°Gathering resources,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Any trash that¡¯s found is brought here for the crafters. Then they use these materials for the benefit of the camp.¡±

    Danien nodded as they came to an empty reservoir. Sitting at the base was a large wooden structure surrounded by a host of wererats. A large albino wererat stood by with a small white rat and brown, tailless rat next to him. Every turned to watch as Reviled dropped into the reservoir.

    ¡°Master, thank you for coming.¡± An elderly grey rat coughed. ¡°We¡¯ve begun building a replica of your machine to help us when the parts arrive.¡±

    ¡°We can see that.¡± Reviled chuckled as it walked around the structure. ¡°Are there any insights you can give?¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t give ya much.¡± The old rat sighed. ¡°There seems to be a magical element to the Grand Phylactery that we can¡¯t replicate. All we can build is the housing which should be large enough to house someone of your size.¡±

    ¡°Makes sense,¡± Meridith said as she approached, ¡°Are you alright Preddie? You look a little¡­ swollen.¡±

    The white rat twitched her whiskers. ¡°I¡¯m fine Lady Meridith.¡± She rubbed her belly which caused the brown rat to growl. ¡°I¡¯m currently with my first litter.¡±

    ¡°Congratulations!¡± Meridith smiled. ¡°What about you Nimble?¡±

    ¡°Good question.¡± Nimble sneered at the albino. ¡°When can I expect a litter, Sire?¡±

    A deathly quiet surrounded them.

    ¡°You¡¯re are bodyguard.¡± The albino cleared his throat. ¡°Not to mention, master Reviled may have need of you.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t put the blame on us Skivret.¡± Reviled chuckled as it petted Nimble. ¡°We¡¯d gladly give Nimble the time needed breed her own litter.¡± Nimble¡¯s whiskers twitched happily as she smirked at Skivret.

    Skivret sighed in defeat. ¡°Very well Nimble. We can try for tonight.¡±

    Skivret¡¯s ears twitched nervously. ¡°Nah, I don¡¯t think I should.¡± She crawled up Reviled¡¯s leg and hung off its shoulder. ¡°Master Reviled may have need of me.¡± Skivret stared at her in shock. ¡°Bein¡¯ ignored don¡¯t feel good, huh.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Nimble,¡± Skivret said.

    Nimble smiled as she dropped to the ground. ¡°It¡¯s okay sire,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯d love to have a litter with ya.¡±

    ¡°How sweet!¡± Everyone looked up at Cappy who hung off Antwuan¡¯s head. Antwuan started clicking excitedly and she released a loud shriek. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Cappy gawked as the ant started shaking violently.

    With a final shake of her head, Antwuan sent Cappy flying into the reservoir. Everyone watched in shock as the giant ant stormed down the tunnel away from them.

    ¡°Come back!¡± Cappy cried.

    ¡°Master!¡± Meridith looked worried at the crying mushroom.

    Reviled released a growling chuckle. ¡°It¡¯s time.¡±

    Meridith yelped as Reviled picked her up and cradled her in its right arm. It ran towards the edge, grabbing Cappy and tossing her into Meridith¡¯s grasp, and jumped out of the reservoir. Danien and Baron tried to follow, but the monster had disappeared by the time they got out.

    ¡°How are we supposed to follow them?¡± Danien groaned.

    Baron chuckled and held out his right hand. Shadows gathered in his palm, and it slowly took on the form of a black rat. The rat¡¯s beady red eyes stared straight ahead, and Baron casually walked down the tunnel.

    <hr>

    Reviled continued to chase after Antwuan, but the ant was slowly pulling away. It had shifted Meridith into a bridal carry with Cappy safely held in her grasp. Antwuan jumped over a large canal. Reviled growled and used Hollow Step to teleport over the gap so it wouldn¡¯t lose its stride.

    ¡°So that¡¯s what that feels like.¡± Meridith laughed as she held on tight. Reviled laughed along but kept its attention forward.

    ¡°Quick Big Meanie!¡± Cappy pointed as Antwuan turned down another tunnel.

    Reviled slid as it turned the corner, and they stared into a gaping black hole. A tunnel had been dug out of the sewer¡¯s stone wall. It was tall enough for a person to stand upright and wide enough for two.

    ¡°Seems Antwuan¡¯s been busy.¡± Reviled slowly investigated the opening.

    ¡°Antwuan¡¯s been in a rebellious phase.¡± Cappy sighed. ¡°He¡¯s been runnin¡¯ off lately and digging all sorts of tunnels. I tell him not to, but he keeps on doing it.¡±

    ¡°Master is¡­¡± Meridith pressed herself closer.

    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s building a nest.¡±

    Reviled stepped into the darkness. It stepped carefully with its claws digging into the earth. The tunnel slowly slopped downward. Meridith¡¯s breathing quickened and she kept eyeing the darkness, but she seemed to calm down when Reviled tightened its grip. Eventually the tunnel evened out and led into a large opening.

    ¡°Ignite Flame!¡± Meridith conjured a dozen balls of ghostly blue flame and sent them to illuminate the cavern.

    Marks covered the walls with crumbled stone littering the floor. Piles of viscous goo covered the floors, and it filled the space with an oppressive humidity. Molted chitinous plates trailed towards the back of the cavern where Antwuan sat nestled against the wall.

    Antwuan sat there chewing on a pile of viscous material. Her hindquarters shook and an egg slowly extracted itself from her body. Seven eggs with thin transparent shells nestled against the ant queen¡¯s body.

    ¡°What¡¯s he doin¡¯?¡± Cappy looked at the eggs in confusion.

    ¡°Antwuan¡¯s laying eggs Cappy.¡± Meridith chuckled nervously.

    ¡°But¡­ boys don¡¯t lay eggs¡­ right?¡± Cappy¡¯s eyes slowly widened in understanding. ¡°Antwuan¡¯s a girl!¡±

    Reviled sighed. ¡°We¡¯ve been trying to tell you that.¡±

    Cappy shrieked in desperation as she looked to the eggs. ¡°Then, those are my gam-babies.¡± Antwuan shook as another egg slowly appeared. ¡°Nooo!¡± Cappy jumped and fell face first on the ground. She scurried over and tried to push the egg back in. ¡°Stop! I¡¯m too young to be a gam-gam,¡± she cried.

    Antwuan shrieked loudly and pushed the egg out. Cappy screamed as the egg fell on top of her. The egg muffled her cries as she flailed her limps in despair.

    ¡°Master, won¡¯t this cause problems for us?¡± Meridith smiled sympathetically at Cappy.

    ¡°Perhaps.¡± Reviled slowly approached the ant. ¡°It¡¯ll take time for the nest to mature, but if would be a problem if someone found it out.¡± It sighed in frustration. ¡°We need someone who can keep a proper eye on the sewers, preferably a powerful spell caster. We¡­ may have to consult with mother about this.¡±

    ¡°Why not rely on Skivret?¡±

    ¡°The wererats are still undergoing training,¡± Reviled said, ¡°I¡¯d say they could easily fend off less experienced adventurers and perhaps the guards, if they¡¯re in small groups, but they aren¡¯t ready to fend off high-ranking adventurers or the entire army. We need someone more powerful and more cunning.¡±

    Master, are you alright? Baron¡¯s voice sounded in Reviled¡¯s head. Danien and I found the tunnel, but¡­ I don¡¯t think it¡¯s wise for us to come in. Don¡¯t want to dirty our clothes, you understand.

    ¡°We do.¡± Reviled chuckled. ¡°We¡¯ll be up shortly.¡± It watched as Cappy lifted the egg and sat up. ¡°Well, what are you going to do?¡± Reviled teased her. ¡°Are you going to let your grandchildren starve?¡±

    ¡°No.¡± Cappy sniffled. ¡°I¡¯m going to be a good gam-gam and take care of my family.¡± She shoved her fists into the folds of her cap and dusted her spores around the cavern. ¡°I¡¯ll be a great gam-gam!¡±

    They watched as Cappy ran around sprinkling her spores everywhere. Small mushrooms sprouted out of the ground and along the walls. Soon, the cavern was covered in thousands of small, newly sprouted mushrooms.

    ¡°We¡¯ll leave you to your family.¡± Reviled chuckled as it turned to leave.

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be here!¡±

    Reviled slowly ascended the tunnel, it¡¯s claws digging deep into the dirt.

    ¡°Won¡¯t the mushrooms kill them?¡± Meridith looked back down the tunnel.

    ¡°Elithan ants have an immunity to poisons. It stems from the necrotic magic that formed them.¡± After a long hike, they could see Baron and Danien standing in the torchlight. ¡°You two missed quite the show.¡±

    ¡°A pity.¡± Baron smiled nervously. ¡°However, master, I fear there is something else you should know. I recommend we return to the tavern.¡±

    ¡°Very well.¡± Reviled stepped past them. Despite the possibility of bad news, Reviled couldn¡¯t help chuckle at the fortune that it had witnessed.

 The Diluvian

    Everyone stared in horror at Baron as he stood in the center of the bar. Meridith¡¯s sat next to Reviled¡¯s box, but her gaze loudly proclaimed her hatred. Oria sat at the bar cursing under her breath as she consumed several shots of hard liquor. Danien was the only one among them who looked confused.

    ¡°So,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Saint Urielle is joining Solomon¡¯s apprentice in this hunt.¡± The words created a heavy atmosphere.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Baron took a deep breath. ¡°They came to me requesting a map of the sewers. I¡­ also gave them the copy of your schematics that Melgareth gave us.¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell us sooner?¡± Meridith growled. Her fingers clenched tightly together. ¡°We¡¯re you trying to set up another ambush.¡±

    ¡°No, I¡­ believed that giving them the schematics would put me in their good graces.¡± Baron clasped his hands behind his back and licked his lips. ¡°Would it not be beneficial for me to have an excellent relationship with them.¡±

    Meridith sneered, but Reviled held her back. ¡°You are correct,¡± it said, ¡°Still, you should have told us sooner.¡±

    Baron swallowed and bowed deeply. ¡°F-forgive me, master.¡±

    Reviled sat there clacking its claw against the wood. Each strike made Baron shake.

    ¡°You are forgiven. Now let us move on.¡± Baron sighed in relief and took a seat at one of the tables. ¡°It seems the Virtues haven¡¯t been ignoring us.¡± Reviled sighed as it crossed its arms. ¡°Saint Urielle is bad enough, but to be accompanied by five paladins is¡­ disheartening.¡±

    ¡°Now that they have detailed maps of the sewers, there¡¯s a good chance that Halligan¡¯s party will find Antwuan,¡± Meridith said, ¡°And if that happens, then we¡¯ll have to deal with the entire guard.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we keep her moving?¡± Mina rubbed her chin. ¡°That way they¡¯re less likely to find her.¡±

    Meridith looked at the ground. ¡°Antwuan has built her nest and is laying her brood,¡± Reviled said, ¡°She¡¯s not moving anytime soon.¡± Silence filled the room.

    ¡°What do we do boss?¡± Oria cursed.

    Reviled looked around at the worried faces. Its gaze lingered on Danien. Unfortunately, it was still too early to rely on their new knightly order for muscle. They were still nothing more than thugs pretending to be proper soldiers. It moved its gaze to Skivret, but the same issue arose there too. The wererats had the numbers, but they lacked the proper equipment and skill to fight off properly trained paladins, especially if they¡¯re supported by a saint.

    ¡°We are unsure.¡± Reviled growled deeply. ¡°They must be staying in the Jericho Cathedral, but our familiars are unable to enter the grounds. That¡¯s why we had Meridith infiltrate it last time.¡± Meridith nodded with a sad smile. ¡°Do you know the rank of each paladin?¡± It turned to Baron.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry master, but they didn¡¯t tell me.¡±

    ¡°We should be able to take care of them,¡± Skivret said.

    ¡°Do you remember how easily we tore through your brother¡¯s camp?¡± Reviled glared at the rat. Skivret nodded. ¡°Chances are, they¡¯ll be able to as well. We need someone who can fill in for Kogna,¡± Reviled said, ¡°Leave, we must consult with Mother.¡±

    Everyone looked at Reviled in worry, but they quickly left the basement. Meridith lingered at the foot of the stairs and gave Reviled one last look before heading up herself. Reviled waited for the sound of the basement door closing before it summoned the Tome into its hands. Reviled slowly opened the book.

    ¡°You appear to be in quite the dilemma.¡± Elithis chuckled as the portal appeared.

    ¡°Yes, we are in need of assistance.¡± Reviled bowed its head and spoke in a low rumble. ¡°Is there any advice you may impart on us?¡±

    Elithis gently caressed Reviled¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry child, but they are hidden from sight.¡± She gave it a warm smile. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t aid you.¡± She lifted Reviled¡¯s head so that it stared into her eyes. ¡°I shall gift you one of my greatest apostles. Take me to the boneyard.¡±

    Reviled gently closed the book and rose from the box. ¡°Meridith, we¡¯re leaving for the boneyard.¡± It tucked the book under its arm. ¡°And prepare for a new arrival.¡±

    As you wish, master.

    Reviled stepped into the sewers and followed the winding tunnels. It dove into the void of its core and probed Melgareth¡¯s soul for clues. Unfortunately, it wasn¡¯t much help. Elithis had accrued countless followers throughout the numerous millennia. Most were nameless peons with a handful of exceptional followers appearing by the sides of her avatars. Reviled left its musing as it stepped up to the pit. Sewer rats gnawed on the broken bones sitting on the bottom of the empty reservoirs. So many dead lay there just begging to be brought back to life.

    ¡°If we were an avatar, we could have made proper use of them.¡± Reviled sighed as it opened the Tome of Elithis.

    ¡°Patience my child,¡± Elithis said, ¡°Everything I do is for your benefit.¡±

    She snapped her fingers, and the necrotic mana poured out of the portal and into the pit. Reviled watched as the crimson mana latched onto the bones and lifted them out of the pit. Slowly, the bones reformed into a human skeleton. Elithis snapped again. Flesh started to form over the skeleton along with the organs until the naked body of a human man floated before them.

    ¡°For the final touch.¡± Elithis chuckled with another snap.

    The necrotic mana drove itself into the flesh and through the nostrils. The flesh turned unnaturally pale and the ears deformed until they were slightly pointed at the end. Bone snapped as the skull restructured itself, giving the face sharp edges. A few teeth slipped out of the mouth, and the muscles grew until they bulged underneath the skin, giving the body a well-toned athletic build.

    ¡°You mutated it.¡± Reviled stared in awe at the transformation.

    ¡°That¡¯s correct. All that¡¯s left is to give it a soul, and I know the right person for the job.¡±

    She held out her left hand and a glowing sickly green orb floated above her palm. Elithis snapped her fingers, and the soul forcefully flew into the body. The body shuttered and the eyes flew open, the pupils nearly filled the entire eye. The body fell to the ground, and the person coughed as they took several deep breaths.

    Elithis snickered as she watched the person look up at them. ¡°Welcome back to the living,¡± she said.

    ¡°My Goddess.¡± The man barked. ¡°It¡­ is an honor to serve you once again.¡± He placed his head against the stone. ¡°How may I serve you?¡±

    ¡°My son is in need of your services.¡± Elithis smiled as chains bound the man¡¯s hands and feet to Reviled. ¡°You are to aid him with everything that you have.¡±

    The man stared up at Reviled with a toothy smile. ¡°My Goddess.¡± He shuttered. ¡°Your avatar-to-be is truly exquisite. A being truly worthy of you.¡±

    ¡°What is your name?¡± Reviled glared down at the bald man.

    ¡°Forgive me,¡± he said, ¡°Allow me to properly introduce myself. In my past life I was known as The Arch magus of Gir Ga¡¯Reesh, The Bone Lord, The Grand Lich Eirgnon.¡±

    ¡°The right hand of Dyir¡¯bahl, the Mother of the Elithan Ants.¡± Reviled stared in awe.

    Eirgnon rose to his feet. ¡°The very same. Although, it appears I¡¯m not a lich anymore.¡± He ran his tongue across his lips. ¡°I am a sanguinite, a¡­ diluvian?¡±

    Elithis clapped her hands which caused him to smile. ¡°A diluvian noble to be precise.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Eirgnon rubbed his pointed chin. ¡°You haven¡¯t revived me for infiltration, otherwise I would have been an aefridite. Therefore¡­ you need numbers as well as power, am I correct?¡±

    ¡°My beloved Eirgnon,¡± Elithis said sweetly, ¡°The Virtues have sent a saint along with five paladins to destroy my beloved son. That shall not come to pass, understand.¡± The threat lingered in the air.

    Eirgnon bowed deeply. ¡°Absolutely.¡± The tome slammed shut, and the portal closed along with it. ¡°Shall we take our leave, my lord.¡±

    <hr>

    Eirgnon sneered as he tugged at the rough clothes draped over his body. The poor-quality clothing scratched at his skin, and at that moment, he wished to be back in his skeletal form. He fixated on the uncomfortable clothing to keep his attention off the heavenly scent coming from the three women.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    ¡°My dear.¡± Eirgnon forced a smile towards the red-headed woman. ¡°Don¡¯t you have any clothes more¡­ comforting to wear?¡±

    ¡°Unfortunately, no,¡± she said, ¡°Notice of your arrival came at such a short notice that we didn¡¯t have time to properly prepare.¡±

    Eirgnon huffed but kept the polite smile. ¡°I completely understand.¡±

    The red head turned to Reviled. ¡°Master, who is this?¡±

    ¡°This is Eirgnon, a devoted follower of Elithis.¡±

    ¡°I was also the right hand of the Ant Queen, and the Arch Magus of her entire domain.¡± Eirgnon smiled proudly.

    ¡°A pleasure.¡± The red head curtsied. ¡°I am Meridith, the right hand of master Reviled. This is Mina.¡± She gestured to the short, voluptuous young woman sitting close to Reviled. ¡°She is my attendant as well as master Reviled¡¯s personal minstrel. Lastly, we have Oria.¡± Meridith smirked at the slim, blonde beauty hanging by the bar. ¡°She oversees our more illegal operations. There are more but we¡¯ll have to introduce you at another time.¡±

    Eirgnon nodded as he licked his lips. ¡°It is an honor to make your acquaintances,¡± he said, ¡°You have such lovely servants my lord, but are they all women?¡±

    ¡°We have a knight currently in the employ of the city¡¯s lord, the former crime lord¡¯s son who¡¯s managing our finances, and a young man who we recently recruited to lead an order of knights we¡¯re forming.¡± Reviled sighed. ¡°That being said, a majority of the servants directly under us are female.¡±

    ¡°Is that a problem, Bloodsucker?¡± Oria growled as she finished her drink.

    Eirgnon chuckled, his eyes shining with adoration. ¡°Not at all, my dear.¡± He smiled sagely. ¡°After all, a lord is respected for the men behind him but is envied for the women on his arm.¡± He turned to Reviled. ¡°However, the lack of men could eventually become a problem.¡±

    ¡°It already has,¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    The door leading upstairs opened, and a beautiful, golden-haired woman stepped inside. Her sweet scent struck Eirgnon hard, and saliva seeped out from the corners of his mouth. Each of the women had their own scent that sparked his hunger, but this woman was the most delectable. Her bosom teased him with each step, and her wide hips demanded his touch. The motherly aura she exuded immediately brought the taste of milk and honey to his lips, and her lovely neck was ready for his teeth. Eirgnon sped towards her. His left hand cradled her chin while his right cupped her generous breast.

    ¡°Such¡­ beauty.¡± He ran his tongue along her neck. The woman shivered in his grasp. ¡°I¡¯ll just have a tas- ¡°

    Eirgnon gasped as he was slammed against the wall, and gasped as a sharp pain pierced his right eye. When he finally collected himself, he found himself pinned against the wall with Reviled¡¯s claws around his neck. Its lower face was open revealing three mandibles, and a long chainlike tongue extended outwards. It dawned on him that it was Reviled¡¯s tongue that had pierced his eye.

    ¡°Ada belongs to us!¡± Reviled growled as it tightened its grip. The woman in question cowered behind the metal monster. ¡°You will not touch any of our followers, understand.¡±

    ¡°F-forgive me¡­ my lord.¡± Eirgnon gasped for breath. ¡°I¡¯ve long¡­ forgotten how powerful the desires of the flesh could be. It won¡¯t happen again.¡±

    Reviled retracted its tongue, and Eirgnon groaned in pain as his eyeball came free from its socket. The organ came free when it hit the tube in Reviled¡¯s mouth, and it burst open when it hit the floor.

    ¡°Do not let it happen again.¡± Reviled released his grip.

    Eirgnon fell to the floor and groaned as pain seared in his right eye socket. Slowly, it began to fade, and his vision returned. Eirgnon gently probed at the new eye, pleased that it regrew so quickly. When he stood, he noticed that all four women were huddled around their master.

    ¡°Again, I apologize my lord.¡± Eirgnon cautiously approached. ¡°As a lich, I had no need to satisfy such base desires, as you are aware.¡± He smiled when Reviled nodded. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse me, I shall go deal with this hunger.¡± He quickly headed towards the steel door.

    ¡°Thank you for saving me master.¡± Eirgnon peeked over his shoulder. He envied his new master when Ada pressed herself against it.

    <hr>

    Eirgnon tossed aside the rat corpse as he wandered the sewers. The creatures tasted as filthy as they looked, but their blood did sate his hunger. However, a being of his stature needed something more filling. Which meant he needed humans. There was also the added benefit that he could use his venom to create fellow diluvians directly under his control. Lady Elithis was relying on him, and he did not want to earn her ire.

    He passed by a water grate and hissed when the sunlight touched his skin. It left a red mark on his arm that quickly healed itself. Curiosity got the better of him, and he stuck his hand back into the light. He felt his hand burn under the light, but no damage appeared on his pale skin. The light left his skin sensitive to the touch, but no real damage was left to his hand.

    ¡°At least I¡¯ll be able to go outside if I need to.¡± Eirgnon mused. ¡°But only if I can¡¯t find anyone in this damned place.¡± A soft shriek came to his ears, and he smiled hungrily. ¡°Has Lady Elithis blessed me?¡±

    Eirgnon quietly ran down the tunnel, then slowed when an orange light appeared in the distance. With his enhanced vision, he could make out three people walking towards him. The one carrying the torch wore a light sleeveless jacket and simple pants, but his metal gauntlets reflected the firelight. Even from this distance Eirgnon could see that he wasn¡¯t carrying any other weapons. The second individual was dressed in a similar fashion, but he wore a long-sleeved tunic underneath his coat, and he wore a thin bladed sword at his side. A cape hung off his shoulders which gave Eirgnon the impression of nobility. The last individual was clearly a spell caster. The long, rumpled robes hung off their thin frame as he carried his spell book. Although, something about the mage drew Eirgnon¡¯s eye. The mage¡¯s movements looked weird for a man, and it was strange for the mage to be wearing such a deep hood. Eirgnon¡¯s ears perked at their conversation.

    ¡°That tunnel was a dead end.¡± The Swordsman growled. ¡°Where are these damned wererat camps!¡±

    ¡°Patience my friend,¡± The Brawler said, ¡°These sewers are vast. It could take us all day and we may not find anything.¡±

    ¡°But I want that gold!¡± The Swordsman replied. ¡°Do you know how rare it is for the Church to open their coffers. They hardly ever hire mercenaries and adventurers, especially for easy jobs like this one.¡±

    ¡°Still, your shouting isn¡¯t helping.¡± The Mage sighed. ¡°We¡¯ll find them eventually, so shut your mouth.¡±

    Eirgnon smile grew in the darkness. ¡°I¡¯d be a fool to turn away this gift.¡± He approached the group.

    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± The Swordsman snapped as Eirgnon approached. When he stepped into the light, the three of them gasped in shock.

    ¡°What¡¯s a sanguinite doing down here?¡± The Mage gasped. ¡°There¡¯s only supposed to be wererats.¡±

    ¡°Should we retreat.¡± The Brawler sneered.

    ¡°That¡¯d be wise.¡± Eirgnon chuckled as the three of them fell prey to their indecision. ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s too late. Pyre Wall.¡± A wall of green flames ignited behind them, blocking their retreat.

    ¡°I-I¡¯ll try to put it out!¡± The Mage¡¯s voice sounded strangely feminine. ¡°Dispel!¡± The flames remained in place.

    ¡°Keep trying, we¡¯ll keep it distracted!¡± The Swordsman drew his thin weapon and charged.

    The Swordsman performed a series of thrusts which Eirgnon effortlessly dodged. Eirgnon was amazed, he had never seen a sword meant only for thrusting, and the Swordsman¡¯s movements were well placed and controlled. In the right hands, it would be a deadly weapon. However, he had no desire to wield a weapon other than magic.

    Eirgnon dodged another pointless strike to his face, but a golden light appeared at the side of his vision. He barely got his hand up to block the attack, but even then, a burning sensation spread across his palm. The Brawler brought his other fist across and struck Eirgnon in the chest. Eirgnon growled at the sight of divine mana covering the Brawler¡¯s fists.

    ¡°Have you dealt with the spell yet?¡± The Brawler wiped away the sweat from his face.

    ¡°I¡¯m still trying.¡± The Mage cried which brought a chuckle to Eirgnon.

    The Swordsman¡¯s blade flashed forward. ¡°Quit laughing at us!¡±

    The blade whistled through the air, but it was immediately silenced between Eirgnon¡¯s two fingers. Eirgnon¡¯s laughter grew as the Swordsman stared at him in horror. The Brawler sped forward with an uppercut, but his attack was rendered useless when the sanguinite grabbed his arm. The two fighters yelped when Eirgnon threw them across the tunnel. They landed on the stone walkway with their limbs tangled together.

    ¡°Crush.¡± Eirgnon pointed towards them. The fighters gasped in pain as an unseen force pressed them against the ground.

    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know that spell.¡± The Mage watched the others struggle.

    Eirgnon slowly approached, and the Mage pulled back until he was pressed against the wall. A smile came to Eirgnon¡¯s lips. Underneath the putrid stench coming from the sewage, there was a tangy, sweet smell.

    Eirgnon slipped a hand into the folds of the Mage¡¯s robes. ¡°No, stop!¡± She cried when his fingers gripped the soft flesh of her bosom.

    ¡°Well now, a witch masquerading as a warlock.¡± Eirgnon¡¯s smile grew as he continued to grope her. ¡°Lady Elithis has greatly favored us today.¡± He pulled down her hood to reveal her cute girlish face with freckles dotting her nose. Her hair was cut short so that it left her neck exposed. ¡°Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves shall we.¡± Eirgnon sank his teeth into her flesh.

    The Mage screamed as he sucked at the blood pouring from her neck. The sweet, metallic taste coated his tongue as her tears dropped onto his cheek. The Mage¡¯s sobbing soon turned to moaning. She yelped with a mixture of pain and pleasure when he jabbed his tongue into her wounds. He felt great pleasure when the venom secreted from the base of his tongue, ran along its length, and mixed in with her blood.

    ¡°Sounds like you¡¯re enjoying it now.¡± Eirgnon kissed her bloody neck.

    ¡°Please¡­ no more,¡±

    Eirgnon picked the Mage up and pressed her against the wall. ¡°We¡¯re just getting started.¡± He sank his teeth back into her neck.

    The Mage¡¯s cries echoed through the tunnels. Her warm blood stained her brown robes along with Eirgnon¡¯s pale lips. He tore at her clothes, allowing his hands to enjoy her warm flesh. Eirgnon lost himself as he indulged the carnal desires he had once thrown away, and he was even more grateful to have been resurrected in this new body.

    The Mage¡¯s moaning intensified. She stopped pushing him away and started gripping his shoulders tightly. Her legs locked around his waist as she pulled him closer. When Eirgnon pulled away, she gasped in discontent. A carnal smile adorned her lips that Eirgnon returned.

    The Mage¡¯s eyes, which were once a deep green, were now a glassy grey with overly stimulated pupils. Her dirty brown hair looked black against her pale skin, and her smile widened to reveal her elongated canine teeth.

    ¡°H-H-Hungry¡­¡± The Mage pleaded in an infantile voice.

    Eirgnon chuckled and took her over to her former comrades. The two fighters were knocked unconscious by the force of his spell. He set the Mage down and she crawled desperately to the Swordsman. She violently grabbed his clothes and bent his neck.

    Eirgnon held her head with his hands covering her eyes. ¡°Gently now, Magia.¡± She slowly brought her face to the Swordsman neck and gingerly bit the flesh. ¡°Good girl.¡± Eirgnon cooed as he stroke her head. He growled in disappointment at all the blood she let fall to the floor. Magia pulled back and licked the blood off her lips. ¡°Let me have a taste.¡±

    Eirgnon pulled her into a kiss and drive his tongue into his mouth. His tongue lapped at any blood remaining. Whereas Magia¡¯s blood was sweet, the Swordsman¡¯s blood was savory, but it was still just as delicious. Eirgnon pulled away and looked upon Magia¡¯s beaming face. She was now fully imprinted on him.

    The Swordsman groaned and shakily rose to his hands and knees. ¡°Hungry,¡± he moaned. His gaze turned to the Brawler next to him. He reached out, but Eirgnon grabbed his wrist.

    ¡°No, we need to keep this one for feeding.¡± Eirgnon flicked his finger. ¡°Severe.¡± A blade of mana sliced through the Brawler¡¯s forearm, separating it from his body. ¡°You can feed on that.¡± Eirgnon picked up the Brawler and watched the Swordsman tear into the arm. ¡°Come you two, we need to find a place to nest for the night.¡± The two new diluvians scampered after the noble as they hungrily stared at their former friend.

 Payback pt.1

    Reviled stared down at the map on the table. Wooden disks marked the location of all the wererat camps in the lower sewers, and a red painted disk marked Antwuan¡¯s nest. Black disks marked the location where the adventurers entered the sewers in the past week. Thankfully, they were coming in from the middle city where the Black Horn Guild was based.

    ¡°This is all the information we have gathered through our familiars.¡± Reviled said looking at the group gathered around him.

    ¡°This looks about right, my lord.¡± The young woman next to Eirgnon nodded. ¡°Most adventurers won¡¯t risk entering the sewers through the lower city. It¡¯s too dangerous.¡±

    Eirgnon petted her head, and she softly purred in satisfaction. ¡°Excellent deduction my pet.¡± He took a deep drink of the red wine in his left hand.

    ¡°It¡¯s rare for the Church to hire adventurers.¡± Meridith sighed. ¡°You haven¡¯t attacked any other groups, have you?¡± She glared at the sanguinite.

    ¡°No, my lady.¡± Eirgnon smiled, trying to disarm her. ¡°We¡¯ve simply watched them.

    Skivret slammed his paw on the table. ¡°Why don¡¯t we attack them!¡± His nose shook in anger. ¡°If they¡¯re as big a threat to my people as you say, then we shouldn¡¯t let them roam as they see fit.¡±

    ¡°The rat is right my lord.¡±

    ¡°Hold up,¡± Baron shouted, ¡°The Black Horn Guild will start to notice when adventurers start disappearing in droves, especially if it¡¯s an easy quest like mapping the sewers.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s right master.¡± Meridith nodded. ¡°Not to mention, they¡¯re our primary customers. Our tavern will become unprofitable if too many adventurers die or quit.¡±

    ¡°This is a dilemma.¡± Reviled scratched its chin. ¡°Meridith, what happens if a quest becomes too dangerous?¡±

    ¡°The guild will pull the quest and demand compensation.¡± Meridith hummed in thought. ¡°But it would need to be something truly dangerous. Sorry, Skivret.¡± The rat king growled but nodded in understanding.

    ¡°So, we need to make this guild pull the quest.¡± Eirgnon popped a small tomato in his mouth and chewed in thought. ¡°What would happen if the adventurers found a sanguinite?¡±

    ¡°That would get the guild to pull the quest, but it would draw the attention of the guard.¡± Magia stared up in worry at Eirgnon.

    Eirgnon scratched the top of Magia¡¯s head, and she squealed in delight. ¡°I see, and I take it the same is true for elithan ants?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Magia moaned.

    ¡°Then what about undead?¡± Eirgnon turned to Meridith.

    ¡°As long as there aren¡¯t any high ranked undead, it could work.¡± Meridith nodded. ¡°If a sizable horde of undead was found in the sewers, then the guild should pull it, and if we keep the numbers manageable then the Church shouldn¡¯t need to call for aid.¡± They all nodded.

    ¡°I¡¯m still amazed that the Virtues were able to get their followers to work together.¡± Eirgnon chuckled. ¡°I remember when their tribes fought each other just as much as they fought us.

    ¡°They Church officially formed during the reign of the Crimson Queen, four thousand years ago.¡± Magia nuzzled Eirgnon¡¯s side. ¡°That was they only way they could defeat the avatar of Gezaria and end her thousand-year rule.¡±

    ¡°I know. Lady Elithis bestowed me all manner of information I¡¯d need to survive.¡± Eirgnon sighed. ¡°However, seeing how much everything has changed since my time is still upsetting.¡±

    ¡°What does that have to do with anything?¡± Skivret snapped.

    Eirgnon glared down at Skivret, but Magia bared her fangs. ¡°Don¡¯t speak to master Eirgnon like that, you sewer rat!¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡± Reviled¡¯s growl caused everyone to flinch. ¡°We still have the saint to deal with.¡±

    ¡°If I may, my lord.¡± Eirgnon tapped on a section of the map closest to the middle city. ¡°I suggest we set up an ambush right here. We can amass the undead here and allow them to spread out. It¡¯ll be even more convincing if several groups went missing as well.¡± He gave Reviled a toothy smile.

    ¡°You¡¯re allowed to feed and grow your brood but keep your impulses in check,¡±

    ¡°Thank you, my lord,¡±

    ¡°M-master.¡± Mina stepped out from behind Meridith.

    Reviled¡¯s voice went soft. ¡°What is it, dear?¡±

    ¡°May¡­ I join you?¡± Mina held her instrument up. ¡°I¡¯ve been practicing¡­ and I want to be useful. Like my brother.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll be dangerous,¡±

    ¡°I know,¡± Mina bashfully said, ¡°But I want to prove myself.¡±

    Reviled stared at her for a long time. ¡°Very well,¡± it said, ¡°But you will retreat should the fighting become too intense.¡±

    Mina smiled brightly. ¡°Thank you master!¡±

    <hr>

    Urielle sat across from the Black Horn Guild master, staring at the sheet of parchment he had passed to her. She hadn¡¯t expected this news.

    ¡°There¡¯s an undead horde underneath the city!¡± She covered her mouth.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, and we¡¯ve lost eight members because of it,¡± Aberny said, ¡°The ones that survived mentioned a sizable horde lingering there.¡± He glared at her with his hands clasped. ¡°Is there something you forgot to tell us?¡±

    ¡°No!¡± Urielle gasped. ¡°All we needed was for your adventurers to locate the wererat camps in the sewers. We weren¡¯t expecting to find the undead down there.¡±

    Aberny fixed his gaze on her eyes, then sighed. ¡°Well, they¡¯re there, and it¡¯s too much for our current adventurers.¡± He pulled out another sheet and handed it to her. ¡°I¡¯m hereby pulling your quest for the safety of my members, and I am suing the Church for damages accrued. I¡¯ve already filed my petition with the castle, so the Jericho Cathedral shall be notified soon.¡±

    ¡°I¡­ understand.¡± Urielle bowed her head. ¡°I apologize for the trouble my quest has caused. I¡¯ll see to it that you receive your due.¡± She tucked the report into the pouch on her belt.

    ¡°What¡¯s down there, Saint Urielle?¡± Aberny swallowed in worry.

    ¡°Something that is beyond your understanding.¡± Urielle tried keeping her voice steady as she left.

    Urielle slowly made her way through the guild¡¯s main hall. Young adventurers, many of whom had just become adults, loitered around the quest board. Their bright eyes shined with hope and excitement, and they spoke cheerfully about the quests they were undertaking. Her stomach twisted at the image of them being torn apart by the undead, and she fought the urge to vomit. Guilt grasped her heart as she left. The monster may have killed them, but it was her fault they were there.

    Her carriage sat ready, and she quickly stepped inside. ¡°Take me to the cathedral.¡±

    The carriage shook as it moved down the road. The people outside were simply going about their day. Children played, joyfully laughing with each other, and women performed the daily duties with warm smiles on their lips, and the men worked hard to provide for their families. It reminded her of that village.

    It was a normal day. The villagers went about their daily routine without a care in the world, until the messenger arrived. Simply remembering the pale rider made her sick to her stomach. The monster, an abomination that merged the torso of a man with the body of a horse and four twisted arms coming out of its back, heralded the arrival of the Wight King¡¯s army. It slaughtered the villagers indiscriminately, and in fear, everyone ran to the small church. The children¡¯s cries pierced her hearts, and the women desperately tried to keep their fear in check. The men bravely kept the pale rider away from the church, and one had even made it out with a message. Unable to stand by, she cast Divine Ward over the church. Pain wracked her body as the undead struck her, for the agents of the Dead Gods couldn¡¯t abide the divine spell in their midst. For five, long, grueling days she kept the spell up. While the villagers slept, ate, and drank, she stood vigilante. Her desire for the villager¡¯s safety fueled her faith, and she knew Lady Shecoga wouldn¡¯t abandon them, and her faith was rewarded.

    She didn¡¯t remember much after that. The toll she took kept her bedridden for nearly three months, but her feat impressed those who witnessed it. When she was finally strong enough to walk, His Holiness recognized her as a saint, a title unfitting for the small village priestess. Now, as she looked at the people outside, she steeled herself, ready to prove herself worthy of the title.

    The carriage came to a halt, and the footman opened the door. She stepped into the cathedral and waved over an attendant.

    ¡°Send a messenger to summon Sir Halligan and Sir Elizar.¡± She ordered. ¡°Ask them to be here within the hour and ready for a fight.¡± The attendant bowed and ran off. She gestured to another attendant. ¡°Inform the paladins that I need them ready for combat.¡± The attendant quickly ran off and she gestured to a group of young priestesses. ¡°Please assist me in getting ready.¡±

    Urielle stepped into her room, a large spacious room filled with rich furniture and treasures, a room unbecoming of one called a saint. She slipped off her clothes until she stood there in nothing but her undergarments. She opened the ornate chest at the foot of her bed and laid each piece on the bed.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

    ¡°Could you please help me get dressed,¡±

    ¡°Lady Saint.¡± The priestesses looked at her in worry. ¡°This is your battle gear.¡±

    ¡°It is.¡± Urielle stepped up on the raised platform in front of the stand. ¡°I go to fight the evil in this city.¡±

    The priestesses nodded. They slipped the white tights onto her legs, and they fit snuggly around her waist. The white corset hugged her body and pressed her bosom upwards. It made her envious of women with smaller busts. With the corset secured, the priestesses strapped on the breastplate. The blessed steel radiated white with golden inlay which was shaped like a peacock in flight. It fully covered her breasts but left her collarbone and neck exposed. Blessed steel bracers adorned her arms, and greaves adorned her boots beneath her thigh guards. An armored skirt designed like a peacock¡¯s tail was strapped around her waist with a single flap hanging down her front. The priestesses bound her hair back with braids as they placed a silver and gold circlet with a white veil on the top of her head. A mantel hung off her shoulders covering the exposed flesh around her neck. A priestess handed over her staff, a whitewashed rod with a golden peacock topper.

    Urielle dismissed the priestesses with gratitude, and when the door closed, she stared at her reflection. She fought back against the embarrassment with a deep breath. She tried to ignore the pain in her heaving chest, and eventually she calmed herself down.

    ¡°Reviled Legion, your reign of terror ends today.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled sat in its box. Its consciousness was spread among the familiars overlooking the entrances to the sewers. To be safe, it even had familiars looking over the gates in the slums. The shrieking of a gate drew its attention. It shifted among the many familiars until it found the door. A group of eight stepped into the sewers. It recognized the five paladins by the scapulars hanging off their armor, and the one in blessed armor must be Saint Urielle. Then there was Halligan, who it remembered, along with an elderly wizard. Something was amiss though.

    ¡°Why have they entered through the upper city?¡± Reviled opened its eyes to address the group in front of it.

    Baron scratched his chin. ¡°The cathedral is in the upper city. Maybe they wanted to enter through the closest gate.¡±

    ¡°If they did enter through the upper city, then that is a boon for us.¡± Eirgnon smiled viciously. ¡°It gives us more time to prepare.¡± He snapped his fingers and the diluvians adorned in cursed armor stood up. ¡°My diluvian guard is ready.¡±

    ¡°As am I.¡±

    Mina stepped into the basement bar. She wore black robes accented with golden flowers and petals with a red obi sash hugging her waist. Her black hair was set into twin buns by golden hairpins with the excess hair draped over her exposed shoulders. A black fox mask hung off the side of her head, and her rymujin was strapped around her shoulder. Mina stood tall under everyone¡¯s gaze.

    Reviled stood and approached her. ¡°We have a beautiful onomori.¡± It stared down at her. ¡°Are you sure you want to come?¡±

    ¡°Yes,¡±

    ¡°Then remember our orders.¡± It gently brushed away a lock of hair. ¡°You are to retreat should it get too dangerous.¡± Mina nodded resolutely. ¡°Then let¡¯s go greet our guests.¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan¡¯s gaze shifted down the side tunnel. He couldn¡¯t see much beyond the golden light provided by the motes flying above their heads. He returned his gaze back to the main tunnel, but it lingered on Urielle.

    She didn¡¯t belong in a place like this. The filthy, disgusting sewers contrasted with her heavenly beauty, and he couldn¡¯t stop himself from staring. Her stern gaze remained focused ahead of them, as if she could see where their target was.

    ¡°You¡¯re staring lad.¡± Halligan pulled his eyes away from Urielle to the elderly wizard next to him. ¡°She is¡­ quite the sight though.¡± He gave Halligan a cunning smile. ¡°Should I distract the others for you?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s a saint, Elizar, and I¡¯m just a farm boy.¡± Halligan sighed. ¡°Besides, there¡¯s a woman back home waiting for me.¡± Elizar nodded but kept quiet.

    They continued moving through the sewers and descended the stone steps that led to the sewers of the middle city. Torrn took point with his massive tower shield ready while Emir followed behind helping them navigate with the map. Urielle moved in the center of the group, surrounded by the remaining paladins, while Halligan and Elizar watched their back. The darkness of the sewers was broken up by the occasional patch of light coming from the water grates.

    ¡°How long have we been down here?¡± Sir Giale said looking through a grate.

    ¡°A few hours at most.¡± Elizar scratched at his trimmed beard. ¡°We probably should have entered through the middle city.¡±

    ¡°I¡­ didn¡¯t think about that.¡± Urielle pouted in frustration. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too late to worry now,¡± Emir said, ¡°We should be nearing the section under the lower city.¡±

    Halligan¡¯s face twitched when his left arm started to itch. ¡°We¡¯re close.¡±

    Everyone turned to him. ¡°How can you tell?¡± Sir Regald asked.

    Halligan held up the gauntlet on his left arm, and the paladins nodded. They drew their weapons and slowly crept forward. Halligan was surprised when Urielle slowed down to walk next to him, and Elizar left with a sly smile.

    ¡°How did you get a cursed gauntlet?¡± Worry filled Urielle¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°I was foolish.¡± Halligan chuckled. ¡°I was desperate to make my fortune in the war, but then I realized I was in over my head. So, I stole it off a lich-knight.¡± Urielle gave him a disappointed look. ¡°It¡¯s not like that,¡± he said, ¡°The woman I loved was sold into slavery to pay off her family¡¯s debt. I thought, I could make enough to free her.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Urielle twirled a lock of hair. ¡°Your intentions were well, even if they were foolish.¡±

    ¡°Does everyone hear that?¡± Torrn held up his fist causing them all to stop.

    Underneath the scurrying of rats and the dripping of water, there was a faint twang. The sound was hauntingly terrifying with each note sent a shiver down their backs, and the air suddenly felt cold. They each stared into the darkness.

    ¡°I don¡¯t like this.¡± Elizar swallowed.

    ¡°W-We must keep going.¡± Urielle stood straighter. Her hands tightly gripped her staff. ¡°This monster must be destroyed.¡±

    ¡°Bold words coming from a frightened girl.¡± Out of the darkness stepped their target. It stood nearly seven feet tall, and its piercing red eyes glared at the Saint. It held out its arms. ¡°Well, here we are. Come and destroy us¡­ if you can.¡± Reviled¡¯s cackle blended with the music, making it sound terrifying.

    ¡°Dammit, it looks like Bartholomew fixed it!¡± Halligan snarled as he drew his sword. He held it in both hands, but he couldn¡¯t get the blade to stop shaking.

    ¡°Something isn¡¯t right.¡± Elizar was sweating profusely. ¡°It¡¯s surrounded in wind and fire mana, but¡­¡± he clutched at his ears. ¡°This damn noise is making it hard to concentrate!¡±

    ¡°What are we waiting for!¡± Giale drew his weapon and charged. His war cry didn¡¯t sound terrifying with its high pitch.

    ¡°No stop!¡± Elizar snapped

    It was too late. Reviled stood there laughing as the paladin charged at it. Giale screamed in shock as he passed right through the monster. Water and sewage splashed onto the stone walkway, and Giale¡¯s cries could be heard from the darkness.

    ¡°It was an illusion.¡± Elizar pulled at his hair. ¡°Damn it, I should have caught that.¡±

    Urielle frantically looked around and her eyes landed on Reviled¡¯s feet. ¡°Sacred Blast!¡± A golden ball struck the ground, and the illusion of Reviled disappeared. ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go help Giale!¡±

    They came upon a small water reservoir in the middle of a four-way intersection. They reached the edge, and Urielle released a harrowing shriek. Crimson blood stained the stone, and the water red. Mutilated corpses shambled about, their moans echoing off the walls and mixed with unsettling tone.

    ¡°Help me!¡± Giale screamed as he tore his blade free from a zombie.

    Halligan and the four paladins jumped into the reservoir with their weapons drawn. Blades severed rotten flesh, and spells rained down from above. The more they fought, the more zombies they drew to them. The bodies began littering the ground, making it difficult to move. Emir stumbled over a corpse and screamed when a zombie tore out a chunk of his arm. Two zombies clasped onto Torrn¡¯s shield causing him to stumble under the weight. Regald, Niel, and Giale were trapped in a corner fighting for their life. Halligan moved amongst the undead, slashing at any that approached.

    ¡°Virtue¡¯s Domain!¡± Urielle slammed her staff on the ground. Light expanded from her and covered the entire reservoir. When it touched a zombie, it fell to the ground motionless. The paladins panted from exhaustion. ¡°Graceful Aura!¡± Everyone took a deep sigh as the divine mana encapsulated them.

    ¡°That fucking monster!¡± Giale barked, wiping the blood off his face. ¡°Where is it?¡±

    ¡°I-It was an illusion.¡± Torrn couldn¡¯t take his eyes off the bodies. ¡°Virtues, who in their right mind would create such an abomination?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Elizar said, ¡°Where¡¯d all these bodies come from?¡±

    ¡°From the city of course.¡± Reviled stalked down the other walkway.

    Urielle growled. ¡°Another illusion.¡±

    ¡°Correct. To think you were able to locate the familiar projecting it.¡± Reviled chuckled. ¡°As for your question mage, you¡¯d be surprised how many people go missing in the slums. After all, they aren¡¯t nearly as important as the wealthy.¡±

    ¡°You monster!¡± Urielle screamed with tears in her eyes. ¡°H-How could you? They¡­ didn¡¯t deserve this.¡±

    ¡°You have no right to say that.¡± Urielle¡¯s face was a mixture of anger and pain. Torrn and Regald held back Giale, who was trying to climb out of the pit. ¡°You¡¯re Church has done nothing for them. Instead, they¡¯re an accomplice to their suffering. After all, many of these poor souls were refugees. Each promised a better life by your Church, only for them to end up in the slums.¡±

    ¡°Damn you.¡± All of them stared at Reviled in contempt.

    ¡°Are we supposed to be intimidated.¡± Reviled laughed at them. ¡°We weren¡¯t sure how well the zombies would fare against five paladins, and yet we are¡­ unimpressed, especially with you Saint. We thought you¡¯d be on par with Solomon, but it seems you¡¯re nothing more than a girl who¡¯s in over her head.¡± Reviled turned away and disappeared into the darkness.

    ¡°Quit hiding monster!¡± Urielle screamed as the paladins climbed out.

    Blood rushed to Halligan¡¯s face in anger, and he clenched his fists. ¡°You weren¡¯t this cowardly before!¡±

    ¡°Cowardice is the fool¡¯s term for caution.¡± Reviled¡¯s voice echoed off the walls. ¡°True cowardice would be you all running away when we are so close.¡± Its cackle was the last thing they heard from the monster.

    Halligan couldn¡¯t help but glare into the darkness. The damn monster was taunting them. Five paladins, a Saint, and a hero¡¯s apprentice. Who did that fucking monster think it was. He looked at the others, and it seemed that they were thinking the same thing, all except Elizar.

    ¡°I think we should retreat.¡± Elizar said, but the others glared at him.

    ¡°We¡¯re not leaving!¡± Urielle snapped.

    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m going to cut its fucking head off and then mount it on my wall.¡± Giale growled with bloodshot eyes.

    Halligan gestured into the darkness. ¡°Let¡¯s go everyone. Torrn take the lead.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled stood over Mina, gently dabbing her forehead with a dry towel. She sat on a plush stool with her back resting against Reviled¡¯s legs. Her chest heaved violently which caused Eirgnon to ogle her exposed flesh. The sanguinite turned away when Reviled glared at it.

    ¡°You should have told us you needed to rest.¡± Reviled growled at her. ¡°You are vital to this plan.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ sorry master,¡± Mina said, ¡°I wanted to be as useful as possible, but it looks like I ended up being a hinderance.¡±

    ¡°Nonsense, you were amazing.¡± Reviled gently brushed the hair off her face. ¡°Your music kept them from coming together properly.¡± Mina smiled warmly at it.

    ¡°Lady Mina, did you change songs at the end?¡± Eirgnon carefully looked at the young woman.

    ¡°I did.¡± Mina released a light chuckle. ¡°When I realized that master Reviled was taunting them, I changed the song to induce anger. I¡­ thought that it might keep them from running away.¡± Eirgnon started laughing. ¡°Did I make a mistake.¡±

    ¡°Not at all, my lady.¡± Eirgnon applauded her with the other diluvians joining in. ¡°In truth, I am even more enamored with you. You are a skilled bard, my lady.¡±

    ¡°I still have a long way to go.¡± Mina looked at the ground. ¡°A true onomori could have sustained the song¡¯s influence for an entire day.¡±

    ¡°Then I recommend practicing on the tavern patrons.¡± Eirgnon tapped his chin. ¡°Also, according to the knowledge Lady Elithis gave me, you should play songs that match the influence you¡¯re trying to inspire.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ start doing that.¡± Mina blushed heavily. ¡°But a true onomori¡­ writes her own songs.¡± Everyone stared at her in silence.

    ¡°You¡­ write your own songs?¡± Reviled stared down at her, and Mina nodded in embarrassment. ¡°Then we should speak with Meridith about supporting this gift.¡±

    ¡°Indeed.¡± Eirgnon¡¯s smile faded. ¡°My lord, they¡¯re heading in the wrong direction. Should I correct their path?¡±

    ¡°Do it.¡± Reviled chuckled as it looked at Mina. ¡°Are you ready dear?¡± Mina nodded with a, surprisingly, vicious smile and she started playing her instrument. She played a fast-paced, chaotic tune. ¡°Let¡¯s see how they handle this.¡±

 Payback pt.2

    Horrific shrieking echoed off the sewer walls. Bones crunched and blood flew, the bodies of monstrous rats painted the stone walkways. The fighting was accompanied by a high-pitched, chaotic wail that assaulted the ears. Urielle slapped one of the rats away into the canal, but the creature crawled back up and hissed at her.

    The rats were the size of dogs with razor sharp teeth and beady black eyes. Bone plates jutted out of their heads and around their ears. Sharp bony spikes ran down their spines and their tails ended with similar spiny protrusions. Oily, green saliva seeped from their mouth, and it filled the tunnels with a scent that made her nauseous.

    ¡°Warrior¡¯s Dance!¡± Urielle felt divine and fire mana flow into her. The magic sent warmth throughout her body, and her mind felt unburdened by the obnoxious tune that plagues them.

    The rat jumped forward, but Urielle glided to the side. Her skirt fanned outward catching the monster¡¯s attention, and she effortlessly slapped it with the butt of her staff. The rat screeched in pain as it flew across the tunnel. It hit the wall, leaving blood stains as it fell, but it limped onto its feet with a weak growl.

    ¡°Magus Fire!¡± Elizar clapped his hands, and five orbs of bright orange flames surrounded him.

    The flames shot towards the three remaining rats, each erupting in a pillar that filled the tunnel with warmth. When the flames died down, all that was left were piles of ashes. Everyone stood there panting.

    Urielle felt her spell wear off, and once again the shrill tune grated her ears. Her right arm twitched violently with each note, and she noticed that the others had similar ticks. Giale grounded his teeth together and the veins in his forehead looked ready to burst. Even the stalwart Torrn couldn¡¯t stop himself from tapping his shield against the ground.

    ¡°Dammit, make it stop!¡± Giale snapped looking at the mage. ¡°Isn¡¯t there something you can do?¡±

    Elizar shook his head. ¡°No, I need to see the target for my Silence spell to work.¡±

    Giale screamed, grabbing his head. ¡°The Harlot¡¯s loose- ¡°

    ¡°Giale, enough!¡± Urielle sneered, holding her right arm. ¡°Do not mention the Dead Gods, it¡¯ll only draw their attention.¡± Giale glared at her, but kept his mouth shut.

    Halligan poked at one of the dead rats with his sword. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen this kind of monster before. What about any of you?¡± The paladins shook their heads.

    ¡°It reminds me of the monsters I saw in the Wight King¡¯s army.¡± Urielle approached him. ¡°Isn¡¯t there a spell behind this transformation?¡±

    ¡°Evolutionary Transmutation.¡± Elizar sighed. His ears twitched when the tune produced an abnormally shrill pitch. ¡°One of the darkest of spells the Dead Gods taught mankind, and I would say is the cause behind these rats¡¯ strange appearance.¡±

    ¡°Where would the monster have learned such a spell?¡± Halligan said.

    ¡°Most likely from the Tome of Elithis.¡± Elizar cracked his neck and sighed in relief. ¡°The chances of it learning the spell from anywhere else is nearly impossible.¡±

    Halligan scratched his head. ¡°So, it must have learned the spell when the Tome was in Decker¡¯s possession.¡± Elizar nodded in agreement.

    Movement caught Urielle¡¯s attention. Sitting in the shadows under a pipe was a small black rat, it¡¯s red eyes staring at them with malicious glee. She shot a bolt of divine magic at the rat, and it dissipated into black smoke.

    ¡°Reviled Legion is watching us.¡± She sneered. ¡°We should get moving.¡±

    Torrn took point as they continued down the wall. The shrill tune seemed to weaken as they went further down the tunnel, and they all released a big sigh. It was still there but it wasn¡¯t nearly as egregious as before, and it only left them mildly annoyed. That is until they ran into a wall.

    The air suddenly became chilly, and their breath turned to steam. The walls were coated in a thin layer of frost, and in front of them was a thick wall of ice barring their way. Their aggravated sighs echoed throughout the tunnel.

    ¡°Let me see if I can do something about it.¡± Elizar stepped forward and rubbed his hands together. ¡°Blazing Resonance!¡±

    The air around them quickly grew warm, and water slowly dripped down the sides of the ice wall. Then the water immediately froze again, and the frost on the wall started spreading towards them. Halligan pulled Elizar back as the ice overtook the spot where he used to be.

    ¡°Damn it, let me try something else.¡± Elizar shook his arms and shoulders. ¡°Thunderclap!¡± He clapped his hands together. The sound reverberated loudly through the air causing the party to cover their ears. Dust shook off the walls and ceiling, but the ice wall stood strong. ¡°This is¡­ quite the conundrum.¡± Elizar scratched his chin.

    ¡°I thought you were supposed to be a master wizard.¡± Niel chuckled, which earned Elizar¡¯s stern glare.

    ¡°I¡¯m not a wizard.¡± Elizar snapped. ¡°I¡¯m no where near their level of expertise, but I am a high-ranking mage.¡± He looked at the wall defeated. ¡°But clearly, I have met my match.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll find another way around Elizar.¡± Halligan gave his shoulder a reassuring pat. ¡°We¡¯ll just¡­ have to go back.¡± Everyone groaned in pain as they turned around.

    They continued down the tunnels and past the site of their former battle. The tune that echoed through the tunnels had wrecked their nerves, and they flinched at every strange sound. Yet, the silence felt deafening.

    ¡°Wait, does anyone hear that?¡± Urielle looked around suspiciously.

    ¡°I don¡¯t hear anything.¡± Regald said.

    ¡°Exactly.¡± Urielle gestured for them to stop. ¡°That tune isn¡¯t playing anymore.¡±

    ¡°Thank the Virtues.¡± Giale laughed. ¡°I can finally hear myself think.¡±

    ¡°But why did it stop?¡± Emir scratched his chin in concern.

    Halligan gestured forward. ¡°The only way for us to find out is to keep going.¡±

    <hr>

    Eirgnon growled in disappointment. He had wasted precious energy to make that ice wall, thinking that the elderly warlock could possibly destroy it, but instead, his spells barely damaged it.

    ¡°Pathetic.¡± Eirgnon huffed as he pushed the wooden piece marking the heroes location down the path they were supposed to take.

    ¡°What¡­ is?¡±

    Eirgnon spine went straight at the heavenly voice, and he swallowed hard as he turned around. Mina laid against Lord Reviled as the monster wiped the sweat from her head and neck. Her deep breaths caused her chest to bounce, and her robes were open enough to show the silky wrap binding her chest. Eirgnon¡¯s fangs itched, desperately wanting to bite into her delicate porcelain skin, and his tongue longed to run along her flesh, licking at the sweat pooling between her breasts. However, the intense crimson stare of his lord kept him in check.

    ¡°I-I was talking about the mage.¡± Eirgnon cleared his throat. ¡°This age of peace has stripped the casters of their power.¡± He skirted around her, taking quick glances. ¡°A true shame. During my time, warlocks were trying to usurp their peers place which resulted in us being far more powerful.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because in this age, casters are more focused on understanding the laws of magic, rather than bending it to their will.¡± Reviled chuckled, wrapping Mina in a protective embrace. ¡°However, you shouldn¡¯t underestimate them Eirgnon. Their understanding allows them to create new spells faster than the warlocks of old.¡±

    ¡°I shall heed your advice my lord.¡± Eirgnon bowed. ¡°Still, I feel this farce has reached its end. With your permission, my guard and I shall dispose of these foolish assailants, while you tend to Lady Mina.¡±

    ¡°Then go, and do not disappoint us.¡±

    Eirgnon bowed deeply then turned to Skivret. ¡°I shall leave the defense of our camp to you.¡± He gave Skivret a condescending smirk. ¡°You can manage that right?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re the one fighting the heroes.¡± Skivret growled. His squad of soldiers glared at the diluvian. ¡°They may scar that disgusting face of yours.¡±

    Eirgnon scoffed as he and his guards left the makeshift camp. He held out his hands, and green smoke seeped from the ends of his long sleeves. The smoke transformed into a swarm of gnats, their wings angrily buzzing, and they dispersed throughout the tunnels.

    ¡°What is your plan, master?¡± one of the guards said.

    ¡°This is my chance to show Lord Reviled my true power.¡± Eirgnon chuckled as he touched his face. ¡°Transmutation!¡±

    He pulled at the flesh on his face, and it came free in large chunks. The intense, searing pain of death sent shivers down his spine. Who knew that there could be such pleasure in pain? His flesh continued to fall away, and his eyes melted in their sockets. With a sickening splash coming from his heart striking the ground, his transformation into a lich was complete.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Eirgnon¡¯s mind finally felt clear without the carnal desires of the flesh muddying his thoughts. ¡°Come.¡± His cold, emotionless voice projected into the air. ¡°We must prepare.¡±

    Eirgnon¡¯s glided down the tunnels with his bones clacking the entire way. His guard remained dutifully quiet as they followed. Had he still been a diluvian, he would have felt proud, instead all he felt was indifferent. They stepped into a large, half-filled reservoir. A tunnel was right in front of them with another on the other side to their right. At the bottom, countless bones rested.

    ¡°You two, man the flood gates.¡± Eirgnon pointed to the two closest guards. ¡°I don¡¯t want to flood Lord Reviled.¡±

    ¡°Flood, master?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    Eirgnon felt his familiars draw on his magic as they built more ice walls throughout the sewers as he held out his hands, grasping at the flows of water, wind, and fire mana. Slowly, he knotted the flows together into a ball above the city. He bound more flows to the ever-growing ball, however, a few escaped his grasp. It didn¡¯t matter. He simply needed to grab them before they got away.

    Countless minutes passed and the sunlight seeping through the sewer grates dimmed, until the sewers reached a level of darkness that appeared only at night. Thunder clashed outside, and the pattering of rain could be heard from above.

    Eirgnon struggled to add more mana to his spell. ¡°Deluge!¡± Thunder shook the sewers, and an increasingly rapid stream of water poured in through the grates. ¡°It seems my powers have diminished. I must speak with Lord Reviled about reviving the old ways.¡± He stared at the opening across from them. ¡°Now, we wait.¡±

    <hr>

    Torrn vigilantly stared off into the darkness with his back turned towards his fellows. The tunnels were still silent, which made him feel more anxious. However, he stood ready.

    ¡°Torrn, you should rest.¡± Saint Urielle smiled brightly and gestured for him to sit down.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, my lady.¡± He said stoically. ¡°You all rest while I cover you.¡±

    ¡°Is it against your doctrine to relax?¡± Halligan asked after taking a drink.

    ¡°When others are relying on us, yes.¡± Torrn replied. ¡°We are like the watchtower, strong and vigilant. Our faith never wavering. Our devotion a light to those behind our walls. Now take up thy shield, bulwark of Rook¡¯hym, and stand against the darkness.¡± He gave them a small smile. ¡°That is the oath I took, so as long as I am here, I will protect you.¡±

    ¡°Way to make us all look bad.¡± Emir chuckled. ¡°Some of us are simple scholars you know.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s on you.¡± Torrn smirked. The laughter helped ease their tensions, but the thunder broke through camaraderie. ¡°We should get moving.¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Elizar stood with cracking bones. ¡°If it starts to rain too hard, then the flood gates will open, flooding this part of the sewers.¡±

    Torrn took the lead. ¡°It didn¡¯t look like it was going to rain.¡± Urielle sighed. ¡°There wasn¡¯t a cloud in the sky.¡±

    The passed by a sewer grate and Elizar started stuttering. ¡°What is that?¡± His mouth hung open.

    ¡°I just see the clouds.¡± Giale looked up into the sky. ¡°Although, the clouds are acting weird.¡±

    ¡°What do you see Elizar?¡± Halligan touched the old man¡¯s shoulder.

    ¡°A ball of mana forming above the city!¡± Elizar stammered in fear. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anything like it. It¡¯s massive!¡±

    ¡°We should hurry and get out of here.¡± Torrn snapped. ¡°Our enemy is doing something, and I doubt we want to be here when it happens.¡±

    They ran down the tunnels, their footsteps being drowned out by the occasional clap of thunder. They came to a four-way intersection and turned the corner, only to run into another ice wall. As they turned around, another ice wall appeared behind them. Leaving only two tunnels available. Rain started pouring into the tunnel, and the canal quickly filled.

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Elizar sneered at the two walls. ¡°I don¡¯t like this.¡±

    The water started spilling onto the walkway. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t stand around. Which way to the closest exit!¡±

    Emir¡¯s arms shook as he checked the map. ¡°The walls blocking it!¡± he pointed down the tunnel to their right. ¡°That way leads deeper into the sewers, so we should go down the other tunnel. Maybe we can loop back around.¡±

    They continued forward, but the water started to reach up to their calves. The water started flowing against them causing them to exert more effort with each step. As they came to another intersections, their hopes were dashed as another set of ice walls blocked their path. A deep rumbling echoed through the tunnels in front of them.

    ¡°Quick, everyone get close to me!¡± Urielle cried. When everyone was close, she held up her staff. ¡°Divine Ward!¡± The golden shield surrounded them as the roaring grew louder.

    A wall of water rushed towards them and struck the shield. The force shattered the golden energy, and they were all swept away. Torrn held his shield tightly as the water slammed him into the wall, and he tumbled along with the sewage. He dare not open his eyes, but he felt something grab onto his leg. It gave two sharp tugs before it wrapped around his body. The rushing water continued to deafen him, and he withheld his screams every time he struck the stone walls and walkway. His lungs burned for air, and when his head broke through to the surface, he took a deep breath. Torrn opened his eyes and noticed the large rectangular room before them.

    ¡°Barrier!¡± He struck the golden square hard and pulled himself up. It was then that he noticed Emir, Regald, and Niel were holding onto him in a human chain. ¡°Is everyone alright?¡± he coughed for air.

    The other paladins pulled themselves up onto the barrier. ¡°What do you think? We nearly drowned!¡± Emir shouted over the rushing water.

    ¡°Where are the others?¡± Niel looked around. They all looked around, but couldn¡¯t see any signs of Halligan, Urielle, Giale, or Elizar.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know but we should-¡° Regald suddenly sunk into the water.

    ¡°Virtues, what hap- ¡° Niel and Emir both sank into the murky water with a yelp.

    Torrn gasped as something grabbed onto his leg and tried to pull him into the water, but he desperately held onto the edges of his barrier. He dragged himself and a rotting skeleton out of the water. The skeleton gnashed its teeth as it crawled towards. Torrn roared as he kicked at the skeleton, and its head went flying across the room, smashing against the wall. Panting, Torrn rose to his feet.

    ¡°Blessed Armaments!¡± Torrn drew his mace, and it started glowing with divine energy. He took a deep breath and dove into the water.

    The three other paladins struggled against a writhing mass of skeletons. The skeletons wrapped their fingers around the paladins¡¯ necks, and they were trying to pry open their mouths. Torrn hit the bottom and raised his mace.

    The skeletons shattered as the blessed mace struck. Bone fragments and rotting flesh floated to the surface, and Torrn tore his allies free from the grasps of the undead. The three other paladins swam to the metal rungs on the side of the reservoir and started climbing up. Torrn expelled a small breath as he followed, and as soon as his head broke through, he took a deep breath.

    The others helped him onto the stone walkways. ¡°Is anyone hurt?¡± Torrn coughed, wiping the water off his face.

    ¡°We¡¯re fine, thanks for saving us.¡± Niel chuckled, slapping the shield bearer on the back. ¡°We should try and find the others.¡±

    ¡°Sever!¡±

    Torrn screamed. His shield fell to the ground, and blood shot out of his arm. His hand and wrist sat on the floor next to his feet. A skeleton stepped out of the darkness. Sickly green energy burned in its eye sockets as it stared at the paladins. Six black armored knights stood behind the undead, each had their weapons drawn. The walkway was only wide enough for three.

    ¡°Kill them.¡± The lich ordered, and the black knights charged forward.

    ¡°Divine Ward!¡± Black swords struck the golden shield causing it to crack as the paladins drew their weapons.

    ¡°Heal!¡± Niel placed a hand on Torrn¡¯s stump. ¡°We¡¯ll handle this.¡± He gave Torrn a reassuring smile as he drew his sword. ¡°You rest up bud.¡± Niel fell in line with the others. ¡°Graceful Aura!¡±

    ¡°Blessed Armaments!¡± The paladins blessed their weapons and charged towards the enemy.

    Divine mana sparked as it clashed with the cursed steel blades and the metal sang throughout the room. The paladins fought against the black knights along with the water spilling onto the walkway. Regald slipped under the guard of a knight and stabbed into an open gap, but another knight slipped past, stabbing Regald in the shoulder. Emir deflected the attacks directed to him effortlessly, but whenever he went to attack, he was forced back by the other two knights. Niel was in worse position as he fought against the walkway¡¯s edge, and two of the knights were trying to force him into the water.

    Torrn growled, pocketed his severed hand. ¡°Now take up thy shield, bulwark of Rook¡¯hym.¡± Torrn set his shield against the wall and slipped his arm into the straps. He tore off his scapular and used it to tie the shield onto his arm. He used his teeth to tighten the cloth.

    Emir fell back as a knight pushed him, but Torrn took his place, blocking the sword strike. Torrn angled his shield so that he blocked all the attacks. The black knights pushed against him and tried to strike at him from the top of his shield. A few blades cut into the skin around his face.

    Torrn yelled and pushed back. ¡°And stand against the darkness!¡± He roared with a step forward. ¡°Champion¡¯s Charge!¡±

    Divine mana coated his shield making it glow with golden light, and fire burned in his legs. The sudden strength drove Torrn forward, and his roar overpowered the rain above. The three knight in front of him clung to his shield as he charged while the three behind them were trampled beneath him. The lich disappeared in a cloud of smoke and reappeared on the other side reservoir. Torrn crushed the three knights on his shield against the wall, and they wailed in agonizing pain before they went limp.

    ¡°Good work!¡± Emir slapped his shoulder and pointed to the tunnel to their left. ¡°Come on!¡± Regald and Niel were already standing in the tunnel.

    ¡°Magus Fire!¡± The lich shot several bolts of green flames at them.

    ¡°Strong Tower!¡± Torrn slammed his shield onto the ground, and solid, golden wall materialized in front of him, blocking the tunnel. ¡°Go, I¡¯ll hold it off!¡± Torrn waved them off. Each blast that struck the wall shook his arm. The paladins looked concerned as they backed into the darkness. Cracks started forming along the edges of the golden wall. ¡°I am like¡­ the watchtower, strong and¡­ vigilant.¡± The cracks in the wall faded, only for them to reappear. ¡°My faith never wavering.¡± Sweat poured down his face, burning his eyes. ¡°My devotion... a light to those behind my walls.¡± He gritted his teeth as pain seared through his arm.

    ¡°You know I took an oath too.¡± Niel placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°Syranda¡¯s Favor!¡± Golden vines suddenly grew along the wall. ¡°And my Lady would be disappointed if I left a friend behind. Come, let¡¯s get out of here.¡± He wrapped an arm around Torrn¡¯s waist and helped him down the tunnel.

    <hr>

    Eirgnon howled in frustration at the magical wall in front of him. Three of his guards lay dead at his feet and the other three were waiting with their weapons drawn. His Magus Fire struck at the divine wall burning off the vines and flowers coating it, but they simply grew back.

    ¡°Stand back.¡± He growled. His clawed hands facing each other, and a ball of necrotic mana formed in between them. It slowly shifted into a long spear of green energy. ¡°Death Spear!¡± He slammed the spear into the golden barrier.

    Necrotic and divine mana clashed in a battle of gold and green. Sparks struck Eirgnon¡¯s skull, leaving black marks, but he continued to drive the spear forward. With a final scream, the necrotic spear pierced the wall, and it dissipated in a shower of golden motes.

    ¡°After them!¡± Eirgnon screamed. Rage started burning in his chest as the knights stormed into the tunnel.

    Before Eirgnon could take another step, he doubled over in excruciating pain. His nerves were on fire as they slowly regrew with his flesh, and blood seeped into his water-soaked robes. He clawed at his face as his eyes slowly reformed and his projected voice came out as a broken scream. His body forced him to take a deep breath, but his diaphragm hadn¡¯t formed yet, so his lungs burned, screaming for fresh air. When his diaphragm did form, Eirgnon took a deep breath, only to exhale it in another scream. When the pain subsided, Eirgnon laid on the floor twitching and breathing raggedly. Every movement causing echoes of the pain to return. And he wasn¡¯t sure how long he had been there.

    ¡°Master.¡±

    Eirgnon glared up at his guard. ¡°Are they dead?¡± His voice burned in his throat.

    ¡°Forgive us master, we were too late to stop them.¡±

    ¡°T-Then take me back to Lord Reviled.¡± Eirgnon groaned in pain. ¡°Hopefully, he had more success than I.¡±

 Payback Pt.3

    Halligan tumbled through the raging currents, and he slammed into the stone walls of the sewers. He held tightly to the woman in his arms. Urielle buried her face into his chest, and Halligan did everything he could to protect her. The currents shifted violently, and he felt himself get pulled in a different direction only for it to suddenly stop. Halligan slid across the stone and gasped for breath when the water quickly receded. A wall of ice had formed with the sound of running water behind it. He heard coughing coming from Giale and Elizar as they spat up water.

    ¡°Is everyone alright?¡± Halligan croaked as he coughed up the disgusting water.

    Urielle gave him a shaky smile. ¡°I¡¯ve been better.¡± She slowly crawled off him and looked around. ¡°Where are the others.¡±

    All eyes turned to the ice wall. ¡°I think they split us up.¡± Elizar groaned, wringing the water from his clothes. ¡°I¡¯m starting to get concerned,¡± he said, ¡°This Reviled Legion has the power to summon a storm out of nowhere and can control the currents at will. I have never heard of such power before, and I fear we are in over our heads.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s too late to worry about it now.¡± Giale rose to his feet and drew his sidearm. ¡°We should continue on until we can get out of here.¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Halligan and Urielle nodded.

    Halligan took point with his short sword held in front of him. Urielle conjured motes of golden light to illuminate the way, and he was thankful that she had been able to keep her staff. They silently moved down the tunnel, keeping their ears open for any strange sounds, but it was hard to hear over the rushing water flowing through the canal. Water from the storm continued to pour in and it drenched them whenever they passed under a water grate. As they continued, they noticed a flicker of light coming from an intersecting tunnel.

    Halligan peeked around the corner and noticed a roughly made wooden wall. Rope held the haphazardly made pieces together, some of the wood looked to have come from broken furniture and doors, and what looked like gates were left wide open. To think there was a wererat camp so close. Halligan desperately tried to ignore the itching sensation from his left arm.

    He waved at the others to proceed. ¡°There¡¯s a wererat camp down the tunnel. Let¡¯s get a closer look.¡± He crouched down the tunnel with the others following.

    ¡°What¡¯s that bastard doing!¡± Halligan¡¯s ears perked up at the sound of the squeaking voice. ¡°Is he trying to drown us along with the enemy?¡± Halligan pressed himself next to the wall.

    ¡°Who knows.¡± Reviled¡¯s chuckle sent a shiver down Halligan¡¯s spine. ¡°We think he simply wanted to show off.¡±

    ¡°I understand that master, but this is reckless.¡± Concern flooded Halligan as a woman spoke. ¡°If the wererats weren¡¯t prepared then the storm could have swept them away.¡±

    Giale¡¯s sneer drew Halligan¡¯s attention. ¡°What are we waiting for, it¡¯s right there?¡± he whispered.

    ¡°True, what are you waiting for?¡± Ice ran down their spines, and fear caused their hearts to thunder in their chests. ¡°Come now heroes. We see you hiding.¡± Halligan furiously looked around and found a black rat staring down at them from the wall. He couldn¡¯t help but feel it smiling at them. Halligan swallowed and marched into the camp with the other¡¯s behind.

    Besides from the wooden wall, there wasn¡¯t much in the camp. Empty cages sat scattered throughout the camp, and weapon racks sat empty on the other side. Reviled stared at them, its crimson eyes searing into them. Behind it, sitting on a stool was a woman in black, gold, and red robes. An instrument sat between her legs, tucked in the folds of her robe, and a black fox mask obscured her face. Nearly a dozen wererats glared at them with an albino rat wearing a fine coat at the head.

    Reviled stepped forward, water splashing with each step. ¡°You all looked tired.¡± It cackled and turned back to the woman. ¡°Dear, please play something to help soothe them.¡±

    The woman nodded and plucked a string. The deep, somber tone blasted Halligan in the face. She continued plucking the strings in slow, methodical order of a lullaby. With each note, Halligan¡¯s arms grew heavy as exhaustion crept into his mind.

    ¡°Dammit, she¡¯s the one behind the music.¡± Giale glared at the robed woman. Anger filled his bloodshot eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll kill that bitch!¡±

    ¡°Graceful Aura!¡± Urielle¡¯s spell seeped into their bodies and eased the effects of the music. ¡°Keep your anger in check,¡± Urielle said, ¡°We¡¯ll need clear minds to destroy this monster.¡±

    ¡°Destroy us.¡± Reviled¡¯s laugh echoed off the walls. ¡°We¡¯d like to see you try.¡± It turned to the albino wererat. ¡°We¡¯ll leave this to you since you wanted to prove yourself. Do not disappoint us.¡±

    The albino nodded. ¡°Swift formation!¡± The wererats drew their weapons. Clear short swords shone in the golden light. The wererats spread themselves out into groups of four. ¡°Attack!¡±

    The wererats charged forward. Halligan met the Albino rat head on blocking the attack, and his arm ached from the strength in the attack. Two jumped up attacking his sides while another went for his feet. Halligan yelped in surprise as the blades whistled past and he stumbled backward. The rats pressed the attack. They ran around him in circles with one blocking his blade while the other three attacked his open flanks. Halligan gritted his teeth in frustration. He had no opening to retaliate, and the rats were too nimble. It was hard to strike back as his arms screamed from the exhaustion that was amplified by the music. A squeal of pain drew his attention.

    Giale was fighting ruthlessly. He didn¡¯t dodge when the rats attacked but took the hits. Their blades scraped against Giale¡¯s armor, but some made it through, biting into his flesh. That didn¡¯t stop him. He focused on the one rat in front him, his strikes knocking the rat off its feet, and Giale stabbed his blade into its head. His anger burned through the exhaustion produced from the music.

    Elizar and Urielle stood within her Divine Ward supporting them from behind the protection. Elizar¡¯s spells struck at the wererats nipping at Urielle¡¯s shield. The mage¡¯s spell sent a rat flying across the canal, and another rat squealed as a bolt of magic tore off its right arm. Sweat poured from both of their faces as they continued to support the two fighters.

    Halligan took a deep breath and began following Giale¡¯s lead. He slashed at the wererat in front of him and smiled when their blades connected. ¡°Sun Flare!¡± A ray of fire engulfed the wererat in front of him, and Halligan whipped his hand around to engulf another in fire. The Albino ducked under the ray and slashed at Halligan¡¯s feet, but the warrior kicked the rat away. We can do this! He quickly glanced at Reviled Legion, but the monster simply stood there with black smoke coalescing around its hands.

    ¡°Pathetic, is this the best you and your soldiers can do.¡± Reviled growled as it turned to the bard. ¡°Change the song to enhance our fighters. Leave weakening the enemy to us.¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡± The Bard groaned.

    The music in the air shifted. The minstrel¡¯s fingers danced across the strings as she played a fast-paced song with a thundering pitch. She plucked a cord causing a deep thrum to come from the instrument, then her right hand slip up the neck turning the sound into a high-pitched shrill. Sweat started forming on the woman¡¯s exposed neck and cleavage, but Halligan couldn¡¯t focus on her.

    The wererats were moving faster, and a few of their attacks bit into Halligan¡¯s skin. ¡°We need to do something!¡± He screamed. He quickly glanced and noticed Urielle and Elizar panting heavily within the shield. Giale panted over the body of another rat, but blood was seeping into the water at his feet. Then his left arm screamed in pain as his body ceased to move.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Giale cursed as he stood frozen in place. He screamed in pain as the rats stabbed their blades in between the gaps in his armor. Halligan also screamed when the blades pierced his own flesh.

    ¡°Superior Mage Bolt!¡± Bolts of magic struck the rats attacking the fighters and sent them flying. ¡°Barrier!¡± A translucent blue shield surrounded both warriors. ¡°The monster cast Noxious Miasma. Lady Saint, is there anything you can do?¡± Elizar groaned as he fought to keep the shields up. The blue energy wavered each time the rat¡¯s struck it.

    ¡°Virtue¡¯s Domain!¡± Golden light radiated from the Urielle¡¯s staff, and it expelled the black fog swirling at their feet. ¡°That¡¯ll exorcise all necrotic mana from the area!¡±

    Halligan sighed in relief when his body started moving again. He glanced over at the monster. Its left hand pressed against its chest, and it glowered at the Saint.

    ¡°It looks like your spell has weakened it!¡± Halligan cried as he stabbed at the wererats from within his shield. ¡°Arcane Blast!¡± Halligan raised his left hand towards the monster. The spell shot towards the monster.

    ¡°Superior Lightning!¡± Elizar shot a bolt of blue lightning shot towards the monster.

    Reviled jumped backwards dodging Halligan¡¯s spell. ¡°Arcane Deflection!¡± It caught the energy in its right hand and tossed it to the side. The electricity arced across the metal pipes multiple times, filling the camp with a brilliant blue light momentarily. However, charring blackened its right hand.

    ¡°Dammit, It can deflect magic!¡± Elizar growled, looking around frantically. His gaze lingered on a stream of water pouring in from above and fell onto the stone walkway. ¡°That¡¯s it. Halligan, Giale, stay in your barriers!¡±

    ¡°What? Why?¡±

    ¡°Trust me!¡± Halligan stared into the mage¡¯s determined stare and nodded. Elizar pushed his hand out of the shield and onto the stone walkway. ¡°Superior Lightning!¡±

    ¡°No!¡± Reviled turned to the bard. ¡°Barrier!¡± A crimson shield surrounded the bard as the Albino scurried up onto a cage.

    Blue lightning arced across the stone floor. The wererats squealed in agonizing pain as the electricity struck them. Fires erupted across their fur, and they were quickly set ablaze. Reviled howled when the bolts arced up its body. Angry popping came from the monster as its lower mouth flew open, and its bladed tongue lashed out wildly. As the magic died down, Reviled stood completely still with smoke rising from its body. Its red eyes barely lit.

    ¡°Master! Master!¡± The woman screamed, running to the monster. She jerked her arm back as the residual electricity shocked her.

    ¡°Run¡­¡± The monster croaked. The woman cried but jumped off the cage and ran to the exit on the opposite side of the camp. The Albino was right behind her.

    ¡°You¡¯re not getting away!¡± Giale snapped, ready to chase the woman.

    ¡°Leave them, the monster is more important.¡± Urielle dismissed her shield and approached. ¡°In the name of Lady Shecoga, Virtue of Mercy and Compassion.¡± She pressed her staff against the monster¡¯s back. ¡°Reviled Legion, return to the Prison from whence you came!¡±Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    <hr>

    The crimson space swirled with lights coming from the souls glowing onto the dark nebulas within it, but right now, Reviled¡¯s focus was directed to the edges of its core. It could barely make out the noises coming from beyond its body. Melgareth had prepared for such an incident. He had built shunts in the connections to the core. Their purpose was simply to protect it from sudden surges of mana meant to damage it. Unfortunately, it resulted in Reviled losing control of its body. It pressed against the edges of the small universe, trying to regain control.

    ¡°Reviled Legion, return to the Prison from whence you came!¡±

    Reviled roared in anger. It slammed against the sides of its core desperately trying to make any connection. Not again! Its anger caused the souls to sparkle with an ugly yellow light as their fear tinted the edges of Reviled¡¯s consciousness.

    Reviled returned its attention to the swirling galaxy of souls. Many of the souls glistened like stars, orbited by their memories and subconscious thoughts. At the core of the galaxy were the five souls that brought it to life, and Laegyn was the heart of the martial core which was nestled right next to them. The magic core sat on the opposite side. These souls needed to be protected at all costs, so it turned its attention to the souls on the outer rim. These worthless vagabonds with no skills were the perfect shield to protect the inner souls, but right now, they were needed for something else.

    Reviled¡¯s consciousness grasped ten of the souls. ¡°We appreciate your sacrifice.¡±

    Fear. Pain. Anguish. These emotions resonated from the ten as Reviled tightened its grasp on sun that made up core of their souls. They pleaded, no, begged for mercy as their memories shattered, and subconsciousness collapsed in on itself. Then, the suns exploded, and necrotic energy flooded space. Reviled pushed the necrotic energy outward, and it reestablished the connection to its body. The necrotic energy sparked throughout Reviled¡¯s body. Its eyes started to glow when its consciousness regained control.

    Mina and Skivret were nowhere to be found. Instead, the Saint¡¯s party stood around it. Reviled twitched, trying to regain control of its body, and the bearings made an ugly shrieking sound with each movement. Its body felt sluggish, and it could hear metal snapping within itself. The lightning must have melted some of our gears.

    ¡°No, it¡¯s still moving!¡± Urielle screamed, striking her staff against its back. ¡°Holy blaze!¡± Reviled growled as the divine mana surged through its body, but the excess of necrotic mana quickly snuffed out the holy magic. It stumbled forward until it could finally run. ¡°Sir Giale, we need to stop it!¡±

    ¡°Hollow Step!¡±

    ¡°Divine Ward!¡±

    Reviled teleported behind the Saint and clawed the golden shield, but its fury continued to burn. Giale and Halligan stabbed at the monster, but their blades slid across the monster¡¯s armor leaving only a scratch. Reviled grabbed Giale and threw him into Halligan, sending both men tumbling across the walkway. Then it went back to attacking the Saint.

    ¡°Superior Arcane Blast!¡± Reviled was knocked off its feet as the blast threw it across the camp. Sparks flew as its claws dug into the stone. ¡°Winter¡¯s Chill!¡± A cold blast struck Reviled in the chest causing the water coating it to freeze. The Mage looked over at the Saint. ¡°Lady Urielle, are you alright?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Urielle regained her breath. ¡°Sir Halligan, Sir Giale, can you both still fight?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Both men stood up, readying their weapons.

    Reviled tore free from its icy bonds and charged at them. Halligan and Giale met the monster with their swords, and Reviled parried their strikes with its claws. It roared in anger and frustration as the gears in its arms slipped, and a sword its guard. The blade screamed as it ran along its armor, leaving a long scratch in the metal chest piece. A bolt of magic shot past Reviled¡¯s head, and it glared as the mage ran around trying to get into a good position. The Saint once again blessed the area in divine mana. The necrotic mana flooding its system dimmed in the presence of the holy magic.

    ¡°Hollow Step!¡± Reviled teleported behind Halligan.

    Halligan screamed as Reviled¡¯s claws buried themselves into his side, and a chunk of the man¡¯s flesh was torn free. Blood poured out of the wound. Reviled reached out to Halligan¡¯s face, only for the paladin to pull him away at the last moment. Sword met claw, and the two stared at each other.

    ¡°Righteous Fury!¡± Divine mana coursed through Giale¡¯s body causing his veins to bulge, and the power behind his sword started pushing Reviled back.

    Giale¡¯s strikes came faster than before but sweat poured profusely from his brow. With each blow, the blade bit into the metal of Reviled¡¯s claws, but it caused the edge to dullen with each strike. The blade soon became blunt. We grow tired of this! Crimson Strike! Flames engulfed Reviled¡¯s claw and it slashed at Giale. The paladin screamed as blood poured from his chest, and his blade fell at his feet glowing a dull red.

    ¡°Barrier!¡± The magical shield enveloped Reviled. Its flaming claws dug into the barrier causing it to shake.

    ¡°Shecoga¡¯s Mercy!¡± Giale sighed in relief as the wounds on his chest healed, but the flesh was still raw with the claw marks visible.

    ¡°Quick, let¡¯s get out of here!¡± Elizar gestured to the edge of the camp. He and Urielle were helping Halligan to the camp¡¯s entrance.

    ¡°Fine.¡± Giale growled turning to follow.

    Hollow Step!

    Blood sprayed the surrounding area as Giale¡¯s body fell to the floor. His head rolled across the stone walkway, the contempt still on his face. Reviled crushed the paladin¡¯s body under his feet, and he glared at the remaining heroes.

    ¡°Go, get out of here!¡± Elizar yelled pushing Halligan and Urielle away. ¡°I¡¯ll hold it off!¡± He stepped forward and raised his hands. ¡°Water Shape! Winter¡¯s Chill!¡± Water hung in the air until it became a veil between them. Then the water froze becoming an icy wall that spanned the entire tunnel. Halligan and Urielle could barely be seen as they hobbled away. Elizar wiped the sweat from his brow. The two stared each other down.

    ¡°Hollow Step!¡±

    ¡°Hollow Step!¡±

    Reviled teleported and struck with its flaming claws, but it only met air. It glared around and found the mage on the other side of the tunnel. ¡°Superior Lightning!¡± Elizar¡¯s spell shot towards Reviled.

    ¡°Arcane Deflection!¡± Reviled caught the spell and tossed it to the side. The electricity arced across the metal pipes lighting up the tunnel. Elizar knelt with his hand on the ground.

    A victorious smile adorned Elizar¡¯s lip. ¡°Superior Lightning!¡± The lightning arced across the floor, and Elizar screamed in pain as his own spell shocked him.

    ¡°Barrier!¡± Reviled stepped off the ground and onto a magical shield that hovered a few inches of the ground. When the lightning ceased, Reviled stepped down to approach the mage. Burn marks seared his flesh, but he still produced shallow breaths. Reviled drove its claws into Elizar¡¯s flesh and raised him into the air. Its mouth creaked opened, and its tongue shot outward. Blood seeped into the water at their feet, and Reviled tossed the body to the side.

    Reviled turned to the ice wall. Mina quietly stepped out of her hiding place and approached. Her fox mask was broken with half of it sitting on the side of her head. Skivret limped towards them. Shame and regret filled his eyes as he looked at his dead soldiers.

    ¡°Master, are you alright?¡± Mina squeaked, staring at Reviled in concern.

    Reviled¡¯s limbs twitched in response, and it slowly moved forward. ¡°We are¡­ displeased.¡± Reviled slowly moved to inspect itself. Black scorch marks dotted its body along with the many nicks and scratches to its armor. Blade marks decorated the armor around its claws. Thankfully, the damage was superficial. ¡°We fear that our internal damage is worse than the external. We¡¯ll need to see Rench for an assessment.¡± It looked to the ice wall. ¡°The Saint and Apprentice escaped.¡±

    ¡°Forgive me master. This is all my fault.¡± Skivret shrank into himself. ¡°I was desperate to prove myself to you, but I failed.¡±

    ¡°Learn from this mistake, or else your people will need a new king.¡± Reviled stepped towards the bodies.

    ¡°It looks like you faired worse than I did rodent.¡± Eirgnon chuckled as his knights carried him into the camp. ¡°Although, you did kill two of them.¡±

    ¡°Are the others dead?¡± Reviled asked as it tossed the bodies into a pile.

    ¡°Forgive me, my lord, but I failed as well.¡± Eirgnon bowed deeply. ¡°They were able to escape the sewers.¡±

    ¡°Disappointing, we expected better from you.¡± Reviled turned to the pile. ¡°Form Necrosis!¡±

    The flesh and bones from the humans and wererats slowly merged into a monstrous abomination. The wererat corpses formed into the body of a massive rat with six legs and three tails and where the head should be was a human¡¯s torso. Four arms sprouted from the human portion and the old mage¡¯s head lolled to the side.

    ¡°Raise Undead!¡± Necrotic mana seeped into the monstrous body. A painful wail escaped the mage¡¯s lips as it raised to its feet. It looked at Reviled expectantly. ¡°Go, bring us the Saint, now.¡± It pointed down the tunnel. The monster groaned in acknowledgement. It charged forward and broke through the ice wall.

    ¡°Master, what will happen now?¡± Mina asked as she stared into the darkness.

    ¡°They¡¯ll try to get reinforcements.¡± Reviled growled. ¡°They may even bring in the guards.¡± It turned to head back to the tavern. ¡°We¡¯ll need to get ahead of this though.¡±

    ¡°Why not send Lady Meridith to speak with the head of the local church?¡± Eirgnon replied, ¡°That way you can start to build a good report with them. It¡¯ll also secure your position in the city.¡±

    ¡°Good idea,¡± Reviled said, ¡°We can also have our little princess help as well.¡±

    <hr>

    Halligan groaned as he held onto his side. Urielle had healed his wounds, but she hadn¡¯t had the time fully heal him. Reviled¡¯s claw marks would forever mark his body, but right now he was more focused on getting out of the sewers.

    Urielle ran at his side, but she was quiet. Her eyes seemed distant and glassy, and her face was unnaturally pale, even in the golden light of her spell. Halligan wanted to comfort her, to take her into his arms and ease her burden, but now was not the time.

    The roar of the rushing water filled the tunnel, but the streams coming from the surface weren¡¯t nearly as strong as they were before. Hopefully, it would soon stop, and they could see the sun. Halligan couldn¡¯t tell what time it was because of the clouds, and it made traversing the sewers harder.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Urielle¡¯s voice came out a small whimper.

    ¡°You have nothing to feel sorry about.¡± Halligan peeked through grate to get their bearings. ¡°Once we get out of here, we can request more help from the church.¡± He tried to give her a confident smile. ¡°Reviled Legion will be destroyed.¡± Urielle gave him a small smile, but it gave way to fear when a gurgling roar echoed through the tunnels. ¡°Quick, let¡¯s get out of here.¡±

    They ran down the tunnels. Jumping over canals and taking turns at random. Halligan knew they were lost. He hadn¡¯t had the time to memorize the map, and truthfully, he wasn¡¯t smart enough to. So, he ran down the tunnels, using the water as a guide. Elizar had told him that rainwater was collected in reservoirs so that the citizens above could draw it from wells. Following it should lead to one of those wells, and it did. The massive pool of water stood before them with a single opening in the ceiling above. Halligan sighed in relief when he noticed a rope dangling from it.

    ¡°The storm knocked the bucket down.¡± Halligan started striping off his armor. ¡°We¡¯ll swim to the rope then climb up it.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t.¡± Urielle blushed heavily. ¡°I¡¯ll be¡­ exposed should I take it off.¡±

    ¡°All right. Do you have any spells that can get us across the water?¡±

    ¡°One, but it¡¯ll only last a moment.¡±

    ¡°Then use it before the monster comes.¡±

    ¡°Water Strider!¡±

    Halligan felt the holy spell lighten his steps, and he gingerly stepped into the water. The water solidified under his feet, and he brought his other foot down with a satisfied smile. He held out a hand to Urielle and they walked towards the rope. It felt like walking on an unstable wall. The water shifted beneath his feet, and at times it felt like it would give way, but they were able to make it to the rope.

    Halligan gave it a good tug, nodding in satisfaction at how secured it felt. ¡°You first Lady Urielle.¡± Urielle secured her staff behind her back and grabbed onto the rope. She groaned in exertion but was unable to climb. Halligan could feel himself starting to sink. ¡°Get on my back, and I¡¯ll carry you.¡± Urielle nodded remorsefully and wrapped her arms around his neck.

    Halligan pulled himself up onto the rope and secured his position with his legs. His arms burned as he slowly climbed, and he felt Urielle wrap her legs around his waist. They were rising slowly. They were halfway to the ceiling when a shriek drew their attention to the edge of the pool.

    Halligan¡¯s eyes widened in horror as the undead monstrosity jumped into the water. It¡¯s rat like body paddled towards them, and the human torso clawed at the air. Elizar¡¯s dead face stared at them with a burning hunger.

    Halligan roared as he climbed faster. His legs burned from supporting both of their weight, and his arms ached each time he pulled himself upwards. He let out a victorious chuckle when they entered the well shaft, but it was cut short when the rope violently shook causing them to slide downwards.

    ¡°It¡¯s coming after us!¡± Urielle cried.

    Fear grasped tightly around Halligan¡¯s heart, and his breath quickened. He fought against the swaying rope as he climbed. For every few feet he ascended, the monster made him lose one. He groaned loudly with each pulled. The sky beckoning them onward, but Halligan¡¯s body was screaming for him to stop. So close. They were so close. With a final pull, Halligan¡¯s head peeked over the well¡¯s walls, and he could see the street around them. He pulled himself onto the wooden frame and tumbled over the wall with Urielle landing beside him. His arms and legs felt stiff, and he couldn¡¯t find the strength to move.

    ¡°It¡¯s still coming!¡± Urielle screamed as she looked down the well. ¡°It¡¯s climbing up the shaft!¡±

    ¡°We need to stop it.¡± Halligan crawled to the well. He looked downward and saw the creature climbing up the walls. Halligan held his out towards the monster. ¡°Sun Flare!¡± The fire lance engulfed the monster, and it screamed in pain. It slid down a few feet but stopped at the base of the shaft. ¡°Arcane Blast!¡± The monster held firm as he magic struck it.

    ¡°Divine Bolt!¡± Urielle¡¯s divine spell struck the monster in he chest, and it screamed in pain. It¡¯s body seized up and it fell to the water below. ¡°Holy Blaze!¡± The second spell struck the monster midfall, and its body erupted into a ball of white fire. Even as it struck the water, the holy fire still burned until the monster was nothing but ash.

    They both collapsed against the well, panting heavily. Halligan couldn¡¯t help it and leaned against Urielle¡¯s shoulder, but she was also leaning against him. Their hands found each other, and their fingers laced together. Rain soaked their hair and mixed with their tears as they were buried under the weight of their failure.

 Wounded Pride

    A depressing, somber atmosphere hung over the bar. Meridith held her head in her hands while Mina sat next to her nursing a shot of whiskey. The woman drinking told everyone how bad the ambush on the Saint went.

    Baron sat at one of the tables tapping his foot furiously. ¡°Dammit, how could this have happened?¡± He sneered.

    Oria smirked at him, her face deeply flushed from all the alcohol. ¡°Didn¡¯t realize you cared so much?¡± Her words came out slurred as she swayed on her stool.

    ¡°Of course I fucking care!¡± Baron furiously stood up. Taela tried holding him back, but he stormed over to Oria and forced her hand onto his chest. ¡°My life is on the line here. If the monster dies, then so do I. As will all of you.¡± His words sobered Oria a little.

    ¡°Calm down Baron.¡± Meridith sighed and smoothed out her dress. ¡°It¡¯s not over yet. Rench is currently working on getting master Reviled back on his feet. So, while he¡¯s out, we need to think of a way to fix this.¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Taela placed a comforting hand on Baron¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Let¡¯s fix this, for our sakes.¡±

    Baron took several deep breaths. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± He looked to both women. ¡°You¡¯re both right. That damned sanguinite and wererat failed, so we should pick up the slack.¡± He let out a humorless chuckle. ¡°Dead Gods, working under my father wasn¡¯t this stressful.¡±

    ¡°So, what should we do?¡± Mina whimpered. ¡°I want to fix the mess that I made as well. Had I been a better onomori, then I could have been more useful.¡± Meridith took the girl into her arms.

    ¡°We need to secure our position.¡± Baron rubbed his stubbly chin. ¡°Especially with the Church. If we can hold them up from requesting more support, then that could buy us more time. Have any artisans been recruited to fill in the stores we¡¯re setting up?¡±

    ¡°No, unfortunately the war has kept many artisans busy, and none of their apprentices are willing to leave.¡± Meridith sighed. ¡°Even artisans among the refugees are being snatched up.¡±

    ¡°Then we¡¯ll need to look for an outside source.¡± Baron growled, his foot tapping madly. It stopped and a smile came to his lips. ¡°I have an idea that can solve both these problems.¡±

    ¡°And what is that?¡± Meridith looked at him suspiciously.

    ¡°I have a contact in Zymarra. He was instrumental in helping my father take over the slave trade, and I think it¡¯s time we contact him.¡± Meridith glared at Baron, but he held up his hand. ¡°We¡¯ll need to donate to the Church. If we make a large enough donation, the Cathedral Patron will give us his blessing. The presence of a slaver would be a stain on his reputation, so he won¡¯t let any request for aid be sent.¡±

    ¡°And why would the Patron do that?¡±

    ¡°Because Patron Waldren has a penchant for a special kind of prostitute.¡± Taela replied with a dark stare. ¡°My aunt had records of the patron purchasing the services of younger prostitutes. Records that are now in my possession.¡±

    ¡°Virtues!¡± Mina gasped.

    ¡°My dear, you¡¯ll soon learn that the Church is as much a political organization as it is a spiritual one.¡± Baron chuckled and turned back to Meridith. ¡°I can send him a message requesting he procure slaves with artisanal skills. We can also make some money out of it by making it a proper auction.¡±

    Meridith nodded vigorously. ¡°Very well. How much will we need to donate?¡±

    ¡°Ten thousand gold.¡± Everyone gawked at the cost, but Baron held up his hand. ¡°Listen, this is important. We want Waldren to feel respected before we ask for the favor. It¡¯s a necessary expenditure that is expected of the king.¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s right,¡± Taela replied, ¡°Bartholomew often donated large sums of money when he needed the Church¡¯s favor, but don¡¯t worry, it¡¯ll come back to our purse.¡± She gave them a sly smile.

    Everyone turned to Meridith, and she sighed. ¡°Then we shall proceed with this plan.¡± She stood up with her hands clasped before her. ¡°Eirgnon and Skivret failed, but we will turn their failure into our success. Let¡¯s show master Reviled that he can count on us.¡±

    <hr>

    Skivret sat on his throne with a low growl escaping his throat. His ears laid flat against his head and his shoulders felt heavy. It felt like his father was staring down at him, glaring in disappointment, and for the first time, the throne felt uncomfortable to him.

    ¡°Sire?¡± Skivret lifted his head to find Nimble and Preddie slowly approaching.

    ¡°Sorry you two, but I needed to time to myself.¡± Skivret sighed heavily.

    ¡°Was the ambush a failure?¡± Preddie sat down at his feet, staring up at him.

    ¡°Yes, because of me.¡±

    ¡°What happened?¡± Nimble hung off the arm of his throne.

    ¡°That damned blood sucker.¡± Skivret growled. ¡°I hated how he looked down on us, so I asked master Reviled for a chance to prove ourselves. We were given a chance to fight against the heroes, but it wasn¡¯t enough. We couldn¡¯t secure victory, and they escaped because of it.¡±

    ¡°But sire, it wasn¡¯t your fault.¡± Preddie gently touched his leg.

    ¡°But it was. Had I not interfered, then the heroes wouldn¡¯t have damaged master Reviled, and had they escaped, then the fault would be with that newcomer.¡±

    ¡°What do you plan to do?¡± Nimble¡¯s ears twitched nervously.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but something needs to change.¡± Skivret growled and his claws dug into his palms. ¡°I¡¯m tired of everyone looking down on us. We¡¯re more than simple sewer rats!¡± He took a deep breath. ¡°With our numbers, we could be a terrifying army, but we lack the skills and equipment.¡±

    ¡°Then why don¡¯t we steal it?¡± Nimble asked. Skivret and Nimble stared at her in disbelief. ¡°If we¡¯re in need of equipment, then let us take it. That way, we can both gain the experience and resources we need to be a terrifying army. Then, the surfacers will see us as more than just sewer rats.¡±

    ¡°What you say is true.¡± Skivret growled, his left eye burned with rage. ¡°Write!¡±

    The elderly rat hobbled into the throne room. ¡°You summoned me, Sire?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m calling an assembly. Have all our citizens head to the arena at once.¡± Skivret turned to Nimble. ¡°Have the soldiers line up in the arena. I want them fully equipped.¡± Nimble and Write nodded and rushed out of the room. ¡°Preddie, help me get ready.¡±

    Skivret jumped off the throne and stormed to the royal chambers. A multitude of colorful plush pillows decorated the center of the room with a broken mirror leaning against a broken coat rack on the other side. Two broken, but ornate chests sat at the back of the room next to the broken mannequin that held all the king¡¯s jewelry.

    Skivret pulled off his coat and rummaged through the chests until he found the fanciest tunic that would fit him. He then went to the mannequin and started placing on every piece of jewelry he could. Many bracelets lined his arms, and he had to organize the rings so that he could fit multiple on each finger. Golden chains layered around his neck, but eventually he had to have Preddie help place them around his head and the bracelets and rings onto his tail. His body screamed under the weight of all the metal, and he staggered over to the mirror.

    ¡°I finally understand why you always wore this father.¡± Skivret glared at his weak form. ¡°A king must be strong to bear the burdens of his people, but I have been weak.¡±

    ¡°Sire¡­¡±

    ¡°No Preddie.¡± Skivret growled at himself. ¡°A king cannot abide weakness. If you truly care for me, then support me. Help me to grow stronger.¡±

    ¡°Of course, sire.¡± Preddie gave him a sad smile. ¡°For our litter, I shall give you everything that I have.¡± Skivret nodded as he left.

    The weight of the jewelry made his muscles scream in pain. Each step felt like he carried a sack of rocks on his back, and he feared that his body would soon give out. He stepped out of the tent palace, his face twisted into a determined snarl. His knees buckled after several steps, but with a growl, he pushed forward. His anger fueled his steps all the way to the arena.

    Skivret stepped onto the raised platform and looked upon his people. Today, their lives would change. No longer could they continue to live simple carefree lives. Something had to change, and he was going to be the one to enact it. Many of the soldiers filled the pit of the arena. Their pitted and rusty armor was an offense to his eyes. They deserved better.

    Skivret raised his arms, and they burned under the weight they carried. ¡°We are at war!¡± The wererats mumbled in fear and confusion. ¡°We are at war with the people of the surface, and it¡¯s time we started acting like it. You all know that the surfacers send their fighters down here to slaughter us, but it¡¯s far worst than that. My time in the service of our master has shown me the truth, and the truth is that they don¡¯t see us as a threat at all.¡± Shocked gasps echoed through the reservoir. ¡°The humans we have encountered are merely their young and inexperienced. To the Surfacers, we are nothing more than training dummies. The first of many steppingstones. We are not a threat, we¡¯re barely an inconvenience. Well, I say no more!¡± The crowd stared intently. Their attention enthralled by the golden plated ruler. ¡°We are not sewer rats. We are wererats, and it¡¯s time that we remind them of that. No more will we be weak. No more will we be a pest that inconveniences them. We will show the Surfacers that we are strong. We are warrior, ready to take the fight to them!¡± Several of the soldiers nodded in anger, and they held their weapons tightly. ¡°From this day forward, strength will be our virtue. Might will be our ally. We will take the fight to the Surfacers and show them that we are not to be underestimated.¡± The soldiers cheered with their weapons raised, and the citizens nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Let us show the humans, the Monster, and the gods our might!¡±

    The soldiers slammed their weapons against the stone in rhythm, and the citizens stamped their feet. ¡°Skivret! Skivret! Skivret!¡± Their chants sounded like thunder throughout the sewers.

    ¡°Follow me to glory!¡±

    <hr>

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry son, but there¡¯s no saving your hand.¡± Urielle held back tears as the priest wrapped Torrn¡¯s arm. ¡°The necrotic magic has eaten away to much of the flesh.¡± The somber atmosphere weighed heavily on the room.

    ¡°Will I still be able to serve?¡± Torrn¡¯s voice came out low as he stared at the stump of his left arm.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°Yes, but you won¡¯t be able to carry a tower shield anymore.¡± Torrn flinched at the news, and Niel placed a hand on his shoulder. ¡°You should still be able to use a round or heater shield. They¡¯re far more practical.¡±

    Torrn stared at the large shield leaning against the wall. ¡°It¡¯s not about being practical,¡± he whispered, ¡°It¡¯s about being a symbol.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± The priest nodded. ¡°I¡¯m truly sorry son.¡± Urielle turned away. Her eyes burning from holding back the tears. All of this was her fault.

    ¡°Lady Saint, a word if you please.¡± She looked up at Patron Waldren, who had just entered the room. She nodded and quietly left. The rain still fell heavily, leaving large puddles in the cathedral courtyard. ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°We-I underestimated our enemy.¡± Urielle said with a hoarse voice. ¡°The monster, Reviled Legion, was ready for us and had us in the palm of its hand.¡±

    ¡°How could you let this happen?¡± Waldren snapped, his eyes filled with rage. ¡°First there¡¯s the quest you commissioned, and now we¡¯ve lost a paladin, and another that is permanently wounded.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Urielle wiped her eyes.

    ¡°Sorry!¡± Waldren bellowed, his spit hitting her face. ¡°You have made us a laughingstock! When word gets out that a Saint failed to exorcise an agent of the Dead Gods, people will start losing faith in us.¡±

    ¡°We should request aid.¡± Urielle tried holding herself together. ¡°The guards can help secure the sewers. We should even send word to his Holiness- ¡°

    ¡°No.¡± Waldren growled. He pressed his finger into her sternum. ¡°This is your mess, Urielle. If you can¡¯t solve this on your own, then I¡¯m sending a request to his Holiness to remove your title of Saint.¡± Disgust painted his face. ¡°You are a disgrace to Lady Shecoga.¡± He stormed off with veins bulging in his neck.

    Urielle slowly made her way back to her room, and as soon as she the door shut behind her, she stripped off her armor. In the pale light of the candles, she looked at her reflection. She was soaked to the bone, but she couldn¡¯t help but see blood everywhere. Giale¡¯s blood. Elizar¡¯s blood. Torrn¡¯s blood. So much blood covered her. All because she failed.

    The tears flowed down her cheeks, and she crawled onto her bed. Her face was buried in her pillow as she begged for forgiveness.

    <hr>

    Halligan stared at the ground. He couldn¡¯t bear to look at the Duke¡¯s disappointed face, and Magister Cromwell held his head. The weight of Elizar¡¯s death was now on their shoulders.

    ¡°Forgive me, your Grace.¡± Halligan said with a dejected sigh.

    ¡°How could this have happened?¡± The Duke groaned, standing from his desk. ¡°Elizar was a master mage. To think that he could be surpassed in magic is unthinkable.¡± He leaned against the window and stared out into the rain. ¡°He was irreplaceable.¡±

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Cromwell nodded. ¡°I doubt we¡¯ll find another mage as loyal and dedicated as him.¡± He turned to Halligan with a fiery glare. ¡°You had the Saint and a group of paladins; how could you lose?¡±

    ¡°We underestimated the monster.¡± Halligan frowned in remorse. ¡°It has control over the wererats, and its command of magic easily surpassed everyone in our party, including Elizar. It even summoned a lich, and had a minstrel at its side, one that could influence people with her music.¡±

    ¡°This is more serious than we could ever imagine.¡± The Duke growled, his face twisted in worry and anger. ¡°We¡¯ll have to mobilize the guard. The Black Horn Guild won¡¯t be able to lend us adventurers, and I fear the Church will send more inexperienced paladins.¡± He turned to Cromwell with a determined gaze. ¡°Have Phineas prepare an elite unit. Make sure Sir Kogna is a part of it.¡± A knock sounded from the door. ¡°Enter!¡±

    Priscilla entered with Kogna and Lana at her side, and she gave her father a deep curtsy. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb you father.¡± Priscilla said, trying to keep her voice calm. ¡°I heard Sir Halligan is back, and that Elizar wasn¡¯t with him.¡± Her hands clutched at the front of her dress, and she tried to keep her lower lip from quivering. ¡°Is he dead?¡±

    The Duke gave his daughter a sad, but proud smile. ¡°I¡¯m afraid so.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Priscilla stood up straighter, trying to fight back the tears. ¡°Do you plan on sending in our soldiers?¡± The Duke nodded, and she replied with a fiery gleam in her eyes. ¡°I would like to request you hold off on that, your Grace.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Because I think this would be an excellent opportunity to reveal our new knightly order.¡± Priscilla said with a toothy scowl.

    ¡°The Knights of the Withered Thorn are still undergoing training.¡± Cromwell looked concerned. ¡°If five paladins, a Saint, Elizar, and Sir Halligan couldn¡¯t vanquish the monster, then what possible chance do they have?¡±

    ¡°I must agree.¡± The Duke said.

    ¡°You are correct in that they are inexperienced, but there¡¯s more at stake then destroying the monster.¡± Priscilla replied with a deep breath. ¡°The Duke¡¯s reputation is on the line. Chances are, the Church won¡¯t send any more reinforcements, at least not until Sir Solomon can be dispatched. Which will leave defeating the monster to us.¡±

    ¡°Very astute, and I agree with your assessment.¡± The Duke smiled. ¡°However, why should we rely on this new order?¡±

    ¡°Because of the added morale.¡± Priscilla¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°Imagine how everyone would react when word gets out that the monster was destroyed by a new order of knights. The tale will boost their esteem across Mrytha, and since they are an order of commoners, we won¡¯t have a shortage of recruits.¡± The Duke rubbed his chin in thought. ¡°Father, this is a chance for us to stand apart from the other nobles. I recommend we have Sir Kogna and Phineas train the recruits, push them until they are the best. Then we send them after the monster. If they succeed, then we pronounce the new order to the world, but if they fail, then we send in the guard.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s an ingenious plan, your Grace.¡± Cromwell replied with a smirk. ¡°We can also train the guards alongside them to be safe.¡±

    The Duke looked at Priscilla with a stern gaze. ¡°Was this your plan, or our benefactor¡¯s?¡±

    ¡°Mine, father.¡± Priscilla smiled proudly.

    Lana curtsied. ¡°I can attest to that, my lord.¡±

    The Duke returned her smile, a proud gleam in his eyes. ¡°Very well Priscilla. We¡¯ll go with your plan. Would you like the honor of telling your brother?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    The Duke nodded. ¡°Then go tell your brother of this plan.¡± Priscilla curtsied and glided out of the office. ¡°She¡¯s grown up.¡± The Duke chuckled after the door closed. He turned to Cromwell. ¡°See to it that the knights are properly equipped.¡±

    ¡°As you command.¡± Cromwell bowed and quickly left.

    Sir Halligan and the Duke stared at each other. ¡°Go rest, Sir Halligan. I¡¯ll call if I have need.¡± Halligan bowed and quietly left the room.

    <hr>

    Eirgnon snarled as he gazed at the ball of mana above Jericho. If it wasn¡¯t for the failure hanging around him, he would be proud. The mana should fuel the spell for nearly a week, and yet it hung there as a reminder of his ineptitude.

    Cool air blew through the broken rafters, and rain seeped in from the holes in the roof. The floorboards creaked with every step, threatening to give under their weight. He found this ruined manor hidden in the back of the middle city. There remained no signs as to what happened to the previous occupants, so he had taken residence.

    A pair of hands reached around him and ran along his chest. ¡°Master, you should be in bed.¡± Magia whispered as she pressed her perky breasts against his back. Eirgnon growled as his lust warred against his wrath.

    Eirgnon clenched his fists tightly. ¡°Now, isn¡¯t the time.¡± He snapped, trying to get himself under control. His hands ached to squeeze Magia¡¯s soft flesh. ¡°If Lord Reviled is anything like Lady Dyir¡¯bahl, then I have failed one time too many.¡± He pulled Magia¡¯s hands away. ¡°I must find a way of regaining his favor, lest I be replaced.¡±

    ¡°There is none greater than you master!¡± Magia cried, grasping his arm.

    ¡°Foolish wench!¡± Eirgnon slapped her, sending her flying across the room. Magia cried when she slammed into the crumbling stone wall. ¡°You know nothing, so let me educate you on how this works.¡± He stared down at her as she cowered. ¡°The Avatars are the very pinnacle of humanity, they are the children of the gods, and that draws in all manners of people to their side. All of us are vying for their favor, for their will is that of their patron¡¯s. So, if I¡¯ve grown in disfavor with Lord Reviled, then-?¡± He gestured to her to complete the sentence.

    ¡°You¡¯ll have lost favor with Lady Elithis?¡± Magia sniffled as she flinched away from his hand.

    ¡°Exactly.¡± Eirgnon leaned down and petted her. The gesture made her pur. ¡°You never want to be in a god¡¯s disfavor.¡± A ruckus came from below, and one of his children came storming in the room. ¡°What is it, Hornet?¡±

    ¡°Squatters master.¡± Magia¡¯s former friend replied. ¡°They tried stealing into the manor for refuge.¡±

    Eirgnon sighed deeply. ¡°I could use a stiff drink.¡± He slipped on a plush robe and headed downstairs.

    In the main hall, ten ragged people sat under guard. Their clothes were soaked and torn from constant use, and Eirgnon could smell them from the stairs. One of the women held a baby in her arms, and its wails echoed off the walls. A family of four sat huddled together, the father desperately trying to protect his two daughters. The rest looked to be a myriad of unrelated strangers.

    ¡°Looks like we caught ourselves some rats.¡± Eirgnon growled, trying to pick one to feed on. Unfortunately, none of them looked appetizing.

    ¡°Please sir,¡± the mother cried, holding her baby tight. ¡°We were simply trying to get out of the rain. We didn¡¯t know this place was occupied.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t beg!¡± A rough looking man snapped. ¡°They¡¯re clearly squatters too.¡± Eirgnon snarled and used his magic to force him to the ground.

    ¡°This is my house.¡± Eirgnon snarled, showing off his fangs. ¡°Only those I consider family can stay here.¡±

    ¡°Please sir.¡± The father swallowed in fear. ¡°There¡¯s nowhere else to go. The Church chased us away when we tried going to the cathedral.¡±

    Eirgnon looked them over. ¡°Are you all refugees?¡± They nodded, and Eirgnon hummed in thought. Besides from the young women, none looked appealing enough to turn into sanguinites, and even then, it would be unwise to rapidly grow his brood. They all stared up at him expectantly, and a smile crept to his lips. ¡°You misunderstand, my friend.¡± He smiled warmly. ¡°I meant that I welcome you all as family.¡±

    ¡°What about him?¡± They all looked to the man being crushed.

    ¡°He was being quite rude.¡± Eirgnon sighed in distaste as he manipulated the mana in the air. ¡°Even after I welcomed you all into my house.¡± The enchantment took hold, and they all nodded in agreement. He released the spell and gestured to the man. ¡°What do you have to say?¡±

    The man coughed a reply. ¡°Forgive me.¡±

    Eirgnon affectionately petted his head. ¡°Of course, child.¡± He cooed. ¡°All are welcome into the House of Destiny.¡±

    ¡°House of Destiny?¡± They all looked around in confusion.

    ¡°I know it¡¯s not much, but every flock deserves a place of rest.¡± Eirgnon chuckled.

    The world around them shifted as the crumbling ruins transformed into a proper house. The main hall sparkled from a fresh coat of wax, and a luxurious rug decorated the floor. Warmth radiated from the fireplace along with the sweet smell of food. Laughter echoed off the walls as illusionary people walked the halls in robes of red and gold.

    In the center of the hall, nestled between two staircases, stood a large golden statue of a voluptuous woman. Her arms were held open, inviting all into the room. The warm smile on her lips easily put everyone at ease. In her right hand was an open book with a bee and flower on the front cover.

    ¡°Behold, this is what the House of Destiny truly looks like.¡± Eirgnon turned to take the image in. His gaze lovingly lingered on the golden statue. ¡°Here, our Lady of Fate guides us towards our purpose. In this house, there is no such thing as a refugee.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a load of shit.¡±

    Eirgnon snarled as he turned onto the group. ¡°Fate is not a ¡®load of shit,¡¯¡± he said, ¡°It is the very meaning of life.¡± He approached the group. ¡°All of our suffering is because there are those who don¡¯t know their fate. So, they fight against what they should do causing everyone around them to suffer.¡± Hate filled eyes turned to the man. ¡°In this house, I guide my flock towards their fate. I show them how best to live their lives by showing them where they belong.¡±

    ¡°Does everyone have a place.¡± The Mother looked to her crying child.

    Eirgnon took the woman into his arms and placed a hand on the baby¡¯s head. ¡°Of course, my dear.¡± He whispered into her ear. ¡°The Lady of Fate denies no one a purpose.¡±

    ¡°Can you tell us more about this Lady of Fate.¡± All eyes turned to Eirgnon.

    ¡°That is my purpose.¡± Eirgnon held his arms outstretched. ¡°Come children, let me show you your destiny.¡±

    <hr>

    The clinking of metal echoed of the stone walls, and a single lamp lit up the tent. Rench and his sons gingerly replaced the parts damaged by the mage¡¯s spells, and a small pile of melted metal sat in the corner. After they connected the final wire to the core, they closed up Reviled¡¯s chest.

    ¡°They¡¯re ya are master.¡± The old rat rubbed his paws. ¡°This one was a doozy. Took us nearly a week to replace everythin¡¯.¡±

    Reviled¡¯s eyes lit up as it tested its movement. ¡°A fine job.¡± It sat up and stared at the pile of broken parts. ¡°How bad was it?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re outta¡¯ parts master.¡± Rench groaned as he rose to his feet. ¡°Nearly every wire and gear was slagged. I¡¯m surprised you was able to move.¡±

    ¡°You did excellent work. We¡¯ll have a reward soon.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take that.¡± Rench pointed at the broken parts. ¡°They maybe useless to ya, but I can never have enough metal.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s yours.¡±

    Rench smiled and whistled at his sons. They quickly removed the parts from the tent.

    ¡°Until next time master.¡± Rench nodded and hobbled out of the tent.

    Reviled sat there staring at the floor. Frustration pinged off the souls in its core, and a low growl escaped. Necrotic mana flooded the tent and Reviled looked up at the portal floating in front of it.

    ¡°I¡¯m disappointed.¡± Elithis said coldly. Reviled let slip a growl which made Elithis¡¯ frown deepen.

    ¡°Forgive us, mother.¡± Reviled bowed its head. ¡°Ever since Eirgnon arrived. Our followers have become willful.¡±

    ¡°If you are to be my avatar, then you¡¯d best learn to control your followers.¡± Elithis snapped, sitting up straight. ¡°The title of Avatar draws in all manner of humans. The weak and the strong. The ambitious and the meek. The loyal and the traitorous. You must learn to align their desires to your own, otherwise, your kingdom will crumble under its own weight.¡±

    ¡°We understand.¡±

    ¡°Make sure that you do.¡± Elithis snapped her fingers, and the Tome slammed shut. Reviled reached for the book, and a spark of mana snapped at his fingers. Eventually, the Tome faded into the shadows.

    ¡°Mother¡¯s right.¡± Reviled growled in frustration. ¡°A kingdom can only thrive when everyone knows their place.¡± Its eyes flashed in anger.

 Back on Track

    The air was heavy with somber anticipation. Eirgnon, Skivret, and Mina knelt in front of Reviled; it¡¯s crimson stare pierced through each of them. Ada, Oria, and Meridith sat at the bar with Taela and Baron at one of the tables. Preddie, Nimble, and Rench sat at a small table while Magia and Hornet lounged on a set of plush pillows. None sat next to Reviled. Meridith stepped closer to the box, only to be stopped by the monster¡¯s glare, and she returned to the bar.

    The silence was finally broken. ¡°The events of the previous week has enlightened us.¡± Reviled said as it looked at everyone. ¡°Every one of you is in a position of power because you have earned our trust, but our trust and patience is limited.¡± Its gaze fell to the three in front of it. ¡°Let these three be an example to all of you.¡± The three of them swallowed in fear.

    Meridith rose a shaky hand and Reviled nodded in her direction. ¡°Master, is there a reason why I¡¯m not at your side?¡±

    ¡°The places at our side are for the most trusted. None shall sit there until they¡¯ve proven themselves worthy.¡± Reviled said and gestured to the pillow on its right side. ¡°However, for all your service Meridith, you deserve to be at our side. Sit.¡± Meridith bowed and quietly sat next to Reviled. Eirgnon¡¯s eyes quickly flashed at her. ¡°Do not get ahead of yourself.¡± Reviled growled. ¡°Your actions have displeased us as well as mother.¡±

    An ethereal chain wrapped around Eirgnon¡¯s neck. He reached for his throat, but two more chains appeared, pulling his hands away and forcing him into a low bow. The diluvian gasped for breath as he face struck the floor.

    Magia and Hornet jumped to their feet. ¡°Master!¡±

    ¡°No.¡± Eirgnon choked. ¡°Do not interfere.¡± They looked between Reviled and Eirgnon but followed their master¡¯s orders.

    Skivret and Mina stared in horror. Then Skivret squealed in pain as the slave crest on the left side of his face glowed an angry red. Skivret clawed at the mark, drawing blood, and his feet tore into the pillow. Preddie and Nimble went to move, but their own crests started glowing as a warning. Mina sat there shaking in fear as she watched the other two suffer.

    ¡°Mina.¡± She squeaked as Reviled called her name. ¡°Your inexperience hindered us when we fought against the heroes.¡± Mina bit her lip as tears started streaming down her face. ¡°We were gravely damaged because of you. Yet, that was our fault.¡± The tears stopped flowing as Mina stared in shock. ¡°We knew you were not ready, but your desire to aid us swayed our judgement, and thus, we put you in harms way. Your actions were driven solely by loyalty, and it is no stretch to say that you were the most useful among your peers. You shall be rewarded.¡± It turned to Meridith. ¡°See to it that a room is remodeled solely for her use. It¡¯ll be for her to write her songs, and spare no expense.¡± Meridith nodded and gave the girl a small smile. Reviled gestured to the pillow at its left side. ¡°Sit.¡± Mina nodded and moved to Reviled¡¯s side. It petted her head and whispered. ¡°See to it that you continue to practice.¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡±

    Reviled nodded. ¡°Skivret.¡± The wererat rose his head as the crest deactivated. ¡°Your wounded pride led you to overestimate your abilities. Several of your soldiers are now dead because of you.¡± Skivret nodded in shame. ¡°Your people were not ready, and we were aware of this, yet we felt the challenge of finishing the heroes was well within your power. We were mistaken.¡± Reviled tapped the wooden box. ¡°Do you have a plan to make up for this failure?¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡± Skivret coughed as he sat up. ¡°I have started making changes. One is to force all male to take up positions in the army.¡± Reviled perked up at this. ¡°I understand that the surfacers see us as rodents, so I desire to change that. My people will fully focus on becoming a powerful army at your disposal.¡±

    ¡°You lack the equipment to be a useful army.¡±

    ¡°Not for long.¡± Skivret replied with a fiery glare. ¡°I have spies mapping out the city to locate the guards¡¯ store houses. We¡¯ll steal their equipment and use it as our own. Then, we¡¯ll train by sending squads up to the surface to attack the city guards.¡±

    ¡°What about your population?¡±

    ¡°Any of my people that are not bonded, must first prove themselves.¡± Skivret said. ¡°I¡¯ve taken in the most desired females and will bestow them to the greatest warriors as mates. That way, there is an incentive for my soldiers to grow. Mating will be a privilege to those that have proven themselves.¡±

    Reviled scratched its chin. ¡°Very well, we¡¯ll accept your plan.¡±

    Its gaze landed on Eirgnon. The chains hoisted the diluvian off the ground so that he could look Reviled in the eye. The chains tightened around Eirgnon¡¯s wrist and throat. ¡°You, we are the most displeased with.¡± Saliva seeped from the sides of Eirgnon¡¯s mouth as he gasped for air. ¡°You were once the right hand of Dyir¡¯bahl. A powerful warlock who lived for nearly a thousand years, and yet, you allowed our prey to escape. There is no excuse for this failure.¡± Eirgnon gave a slight nod, but the chains wrapped around his neck made his eyes bulge. The chains loosened allowing Eirgnon to catch his breath. ¡°What is freedom, Eirgnon?¡±

    ¡°It is a burden.¡± Eirgnon¡¯s broken voice rasped against the air. ¡°A burden for those strong enough to carry it.¡±

    ¡°Exactly.¡± Reviled growled as it turned its gaze to everyone. ¡°Free will is not a virtue; it is a terrible burden. In the wrong hands, it can lead to ruin. That is why Elithis bestows the burden of freedom to those who have earned it.¡±

    ¡°Master,¡± Ada said with a soft tone. ¡°Don¡¯t people make choices all the time?¡±

    ¡°Insignificant choices yes, but what I¡¯m referring to are choices that can change lives,¡± Reviled replied, ¡°Those choices must be made by people capable of making them. The farmer may know how to grow crops, but he doesn¡¯t know which crops are needed to support the kingdom. If the farmer were to choose which crops he wants to grow, it could sustain the famine rather than end it.¡±

    ¡°Everyone has a role, and they must serve society they best they can,¡± Eirgnon explained, ¡°Tyranny is only evil when the fool is on the throne.¡±

    ¡°Exactly.¡± Reviled turned his gaze back to Eirgnon. ¡°And you have made us a fool. How do you plan to rectify that?¡±

    ¡°I have an idea. If you are willing to hear it.¡± Reviled nodded, and the chains fell away from Eirgnon¡¯s arms. The diluvian cleared his throat. ¡°While you were recovering my lord, I came upon a group of refugees. After speaking with them, I¡¯ve come to realize there is an opportunity for us to convert the masses to our side.¡±Stolen story; please report.

    ¡°You want to create a cult in the middle of the city?¡± Baron scoffed sarcastically.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Eirgnon replied with an earnest plea. ¡°From my talk with these refugees, it¡¯s clear that the citizens have started to lose faith in the Church and in the Virtues. I suggest we reintroduce one of Lady Elithis¡¯ old religions, one that this world has long forgotten.¡±

    ¡°We were unaware that mother had any other religions.¡± Reviled hummed in thought. ¡°According to our creator, she was only ever known as the Hive Mother.¡±

    ¡°According to Lady Elithis, that name came to prominence three thousand years ago when her last Avatar walked the lands.¡± Eirgnon replied with condescending smirk. ¡°I recommend bringing back a title truly befitting her greatness. With your permission, I would like to open a House of Destiny.¡±

    Everyone looked at the diluvian in confusion. ¡°Explain further.¡± Reviled focused on Eirgnon.

    ¡°In my time, Elithis was also known as the Lady of Fate. Her priests would ordain a person¡¯s calling and then lead them to fulfill it.¡± Eirgnon reminisced with a smile. ¡°All had a place, and none were left behind.¡±

    ¡°We see.¡± Reviled¡¯s eyes dimmed, then they brightened. ¡°Very well, we shall accept your plan. However, from this moment you¡¯ll fall directly under Baron.¡±

    ¡°What?¡± Baron shouted as he looked between Reviled and Eirgnon. Sweat formed on his brow. ¡°But why not directly report to you master?¡±

    ¡°This is his punishment.¡± Reviled chuckled at Baron¡¯s shock. ¡°Eirgnon has been demoted, and until he proves himself worthy, he¡¯ll report directly to you.¡± His gazed lingered over to Taela. ¡°Also, you have connections that we don¡¯t. Those connections will be useful to this House of Destiny. See to it, Baron.¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡±

    ¡°Has anyone heard from Kogna?¡± Reviled looked at Meridith.

    ¡°He did send a message while you were undergoing repairs.¡± Meridith replied, a glint of fear in her eyes. ¡°I wanted to tell you sooner, but you demanded this meeting immediately.¡±

    ¡°Any specific reason as to why?¡±

    ¡°Apparently, Lady Priscilla wants to use our knights to hunt you down.¡± Meridith swallowed hard as she wrung her hands together. ¡°According to his letter, she plans to announce their creation after they hunt you down. They¡¯re even being trained by Lord Phineas.¡±

    Reviled bellowed out a laugh. ¡°Who would have expected that the girl would have such ambitions.¡± He turned to Taela. ¡°Someone send a letter to Kogna. Tell him to bring our knights to the Rose Garden. We should give them proper motivations.¡±

    <hr>

    The night air was filled with the howling of young men. Kogna led his master¡¯s knights-to-be down the streets of the upper city. The twenty-five young men cheered as they approached the three-story whitewashed building. They salivated at the reward after their days of hard training.

    ¡°I wasn¡¯t expecting this.¡± Danien laughed as he hungrily eyed the building. ¡°Master Legion knows how to show his appreciation.¡±

    The door to the Rose Garden opened and Taela stepped out. ¡°Good evening gentlemen.¡± She smiled brightly at them, but their attention was focused on her tight bodice. ¡°We¡¯ve been expecting you. Please come inside.¡±

    Kogna sighed as the young men cheered, and they stepped into the building. Taela led them to the main bar. The prostitutes gave them enticing smiles as they entered. Their dresses showed off their legs and chests while still covering their enticing parts. The young men were barely keeping themselves in check.

    ¡°We hope you all are excited.¡± Kogna turned to see Reviled¡¯s familiar sitting on the bar. All eyes turned to the familiar, and Kogna could see the charm leave the women¡¯s eyes. ¡°We¡¯ve heard you¡¯ve all been training hard, so we felt it was time to reward your dedication. Enjoy yourselves tonight at our expense.¡± Kogna flinched at the howls coming from his charges, and the young men started dispersing around the room.

    With a deep sigh, Kogna headed to the bar. ¡°What can I get you handsome?¡± The middle-aged bartender smirked at him.

    ¡°Something strong to get me through this night.¡±

    The bartender poured him a generous amount of whiskey. ¡°Here you go.¡± Kogna nodded in response. ¡°You¡¯re not going to go find yourself a girl?¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m here to supervise.¡± Kogna snickered as he took a drink. ¡°Besides, I have a particular taste in women.¡±

    ¡°And that would be?¡±

    Kogna tapped the bar in thought. ¡°Homely women.¡±

    The bartender sidled up closer to the bar. ¡°I¡¯m certain we can find someone for you.¡± Kogna gave the bartender a quick glance and smirked at her.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough Katrina.¡± Taela chuckled as she sat down next to them.

    ¡°May I ask what this is for master?¡± Kogna turned to the rat.

    ¡°We have our reasons.¡± Reviled chuckled as it looked at the men. ¡°We apologize for not getting in touch sooner. There were complications. How has their training coming along?¡±

    ¡°Terribly.¡± Kogna sighed deeply. ¡°A few of them have some talent, but they all lack proper discipline. As of right now, they aren¡¯t even on par with any of the guardsmen.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯ll need to change, and this should do the trick.¡± Its voice projected over the room. ¡°Are you all enjoying yourselves?¡± The men cheered in response. ¡°Excellent, however, before the festivities fully start there are some things we need to discuss.¡± All celebration immediately stopped.

    ¡°What do you wish to talk about sir?¡± Danien smiled uncomfortably as he held onto the woman in his lap.

    ¡°Your progress.¡± Reviled¡¯s work sent a shiver down everyone¡¯s spine. ¡°You were all sent to the castle for training, and yet, it seems like you all are failing. This needs to change immediately.¡± Sweat started forming on the young men¡¯s faces as the color drained from their faces. ¡°The Knights of the Withered Thorn are to be a pivotal part of our organization, one with excellent rewards. So for us to hear you all are failing displeases us. That is why we felt it was necessary to show you the rewards you could possibly receive.¡±

    Taela snapped her fingers, and the prostitutes pulled away from the young men. They stared in horror as the women stood out of reach.

    ¡°We do not reward mediocrity.¡± Reviled¡¯s growl caused the men to turn completely white. ¡°If your performance doesn¡¯t improve, then we¡¯ll find another place for you. One less rewarding.¡± The words hung in the air. After the silence finally settled, Reviled turned to Kogna. ¡°Tell us, which five of them are the best performing?¡±

    ¡°Rupheus, Victor, Callen, Elthan, and Wiese.¡±

    ¡°Step forward you five.¡± Reviled beckoned, and five men stood up. ¡°You may be the best, but that isn¡¯t something to be proud of. We always demand excellence, but we will reward effort. So, pick one girl, and she is yours for the next hour. The rest of you will wait here and reflect upon your failures. Hopefully, the sight of your reward will drive you to do better.¡±

    The five men grabbed the first women in their sights and rushed them upstairs. Tension immediately grew as the rest of them stared hungrily at the half-naked women. The women however, stood there making themselves appealing to the men, and they were clearly enjoying the teasing.

    ¡°Why are we following this bastard?¡± a lone voice broke the silence. All eyes turned to the nameless man glaring at the rat.

    ¡°Shut up!¡± Danien snapped. ¡°I don¡¯t like this either, but he¡¯s the boss.¡±

    ¡°But what¡¯s stopping us from-¡±

    Danien punched the man in the face. His fists continued pummeling the fool until his knuckles came back red. Danien panted as he tried fixing his clothes.

    ¡°He is the King.¡± Danien turned and bowed to Reviled. ¡°Forgive the outburst, Sire. Should I remove him from the premises?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Reviled nodded. ¡°Pick any girl, she¡¯s yours for one hour Danien.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, sir.¡± Danien smiled as he pulled a girl away. The rest of the knights glared in envy as Danien left.

    ¡°Now then.¡± Reviled¡¯s glare fell to the Upstart. The Upstart held his bleeding nose and stared at Reviled in fear. ¡°You have not been punished enough. The rest of you, take him out back and beat him. Those that do will be able to enjoy themselves for one hour.¡±

    As soon as the words were said, the men dragged the Upstart off the sofa towards the back. Their pent-up frustration fueled their actions against their friend. Even with them outside, their angry shouts could be heard through the stone walls.

    ¡°See to it that they get their reward.¡± Reviled snickered before turning to Taela. ¡°We¡¯ll have Meridith bring a bonus for the girls. Also, to reward your girls for their excellent work, we¡¯ll be booking the bathhouse for their exclusive use.¡± The prostitutes eyes sparkled at the news. ¡°Enjoy yourselves everyone.¡± The rat disappeared in a whisp of smoke.

 The Farm Boy and Village Priestess

    Halligan looked down upon the training ground from his window. The Knights of the Withered Thorn were down their training. The sweat pouring off their bodies was the symbol of their hard work. It amazed him how quickly their motivation had changed. Before, they reminded him of children playing soldiers, but that had changed overnight.

    They were broken into groups. Some were engaging in physical training to build up their stamina while others were practicing the sword. Of the twenty-four knights, one appeared to have dropped out, six were pressed the hardest.

    Lord Phineas and Sir Kogna stood by, ready to correct their forms with a sharp crack from the wooden swords in their hands. Despite the harshness of their training, they were quickly progressing. The sight set a fire ablaze in his gut, and Halligan slipped the black gauntlet onto his left arm, but he frowned when an itching sensation seared his bones. Ever since the expedition into the sewers, his gauntlet hadn¡¯t felt the same.

    With a growl, Halligan stormed out of his room. His wounds were nearly healed which meant that he needed to prepare. Reviled Legion was still out there, plotting. A desire to destroy the monster sped his steps, which led him to crash into a cart.

    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± Halligan groaned as he grabbed his stomach. ¡°I didn¡¯t see¡­¡± His voice caught in his throat as he stared at the woman.

    Waves of golden-red hair spilled across the woman¡¯s body, and it draped over the exposed skin of her shoulders. Her soft, supple figure pressed against the silk cloth of her dress, and the low cut showed off a generous amount of her breasts. Her eyes were the brightest of blues that reminded him of a clear morning sky. Her skin was paler than when he had last seen her, but she was still the most beautiful woman he had seen.

    ¡°Myra?¡±

    Myraelle gasped as she stared up at him. ¡°Hal, is that you?¡± Halligan helped her to her feet. His eyes lingered on her shapely figure. She was no longer the thin girl he had grown up with.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Halligan couldn¡¯t keep the smile from his lips, but it faded when he saw the slave crest branded onto her skin.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to attend Lord Olivar.¡± Myraelle smiled shyly. ¡°He purchased me as soon as he saw me.¡±

    Halligan clenched his fists. ¡°That bastard.¡± He snarled through gritted teeth.

    ¡°Don¡¯t say such a thing!¡± Myra snapped. ¡°He¡¯s taken great care of me. Ever since he bought me, I¡¯ve never wanted for anything.¡±

    ¡°But you¡¯re his slave!¡±

    ¡°Better a well-fed slave than a starving freeman.¡± Myra replied with the same fire. ¡°Don¡¯t you remember what it was like?¡± Halligan nodded with a defeated sigh. ¡°But you¡¯re doing well for yourself.¡± Myra smiled while twirling her hair. Her eyes fluttered rapidly. ¡°When did you become a knight?¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t call myself a knight.¡± Halligan chuckled nervously. ¡°I became Solomon¡¯s apprentice during my time in the war. We came upon a dire situation here when we visited, and I stayed behind to see that our work is finished.¡±

    ¡°Solomon, as in the Hero Solomon.¡± Her eyes sparkled with excitement. ¡°Congratulations, I¡¯m proud of you.¡±

    Myra¡¯s smile sent his stomach into a flurry of excitement. ¡°Thank you.¡±

    ¡°Myra, what¡¯s taking breakfast so long?¡± They both turned to the large man standing at the end of the hall. His robes barely fit his round body, and it showed off more than any sane person would want to see.

    ¡°I apologize, master.¡± Myra pushed the cart over to him. ¡°I ended up meeting with an unexpected friend.¡±

    ¡°Is that so.¡± Olivar leered at Halligan with contempt. ¡°I guess I can overlook this. After all, it¡¯s not every day you get to meet someone from Triemiere.¡±

    ¡°Thank you master.¡± Myra smiled and waved at Halligan.

    Olivar gave Halligan a lopsided smirk and squeezed Myra¡¯s ass as they headed down the hall. Halligan snarled at the sight, his rage driving him to punch the noble, but Myra¡¯s laugh stole away his anger. Pain and sorrow were all that remained.

    Halligan watched them walk away, and he looked at his left hand. ¡°Not again.¡± He growled, storming off down the hall. ¡°Lord Olivar! A moment of your time please.¡±

    The rotund noble sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a moment.¡± Myraelle looked between them with a worried frown but stepped into the room. ¡°You have one minute.¡± He sneered at Halligan.

    ¡°How much to free Myraelle?¡±

    Olivar choked on his spit as he looked up at Halligan. ¡°You want to buy her?¡± Halligan nodded, and Olivar rubbed his multilayered chin. ¡°She cost me quite the sum. Not to mention her value as a servant.¡± The noble stood there pondering until a nasty smile came to his lips. ¡°I¡¯d say seven hundred gold would suffice.¡±

    ¡°Seven¡­¡± Halligan could barely breathe.

    ¡°Of course.¡± Olivar chuckled, his eyes shined with a vicious light. ¡°However, you were once Lady Priscilla¡¯s knight. If you could convince her to marry me, then I might consider selling her for cheaper.¡±

    A knot formed in Halligan¡¯s stomach. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡±

    ¡°Until then, I suggest we keep this a secret between us. We wouldn¡¯t want to get Myra¡¯s hopes up after all.¡± Halligan nodded as the noble stepped into his room.

    Halligan ran a hand through his hair. ¡°Seven hundred gold, where in the Dead Prison am I going to get that?¡± He stumbled down the hall. ¡°Maybe I could ask the Duke for help?¡± A heavy sigh left him as he shook his head. ¡°No, I couldn¡¯t impose that on him. Not after all he¡¯s done.¡± He passed by a window, and the sunlight reflected into his eyes. The spire from the cathedral peaked over the castle¡¯s walls. ¡°Perhaps, they¡¯ll help me.¡±

    Halligan couldn¡¯t get the image of Myraelle out of his mind. She was as beautiful as when he last laid eyes on her all those years ago, but her beauty was marred by that disgusting slave crest. His blood boiled when he remembered the noble pawing at her. Treating her like an object rather than a person, it was unforgivable. This time he would save her. This time he wouldn¡¯t fail. These thoughts fueled his steps as he made his way over to the cathedral and he stepped into the well-lit sanctuary.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

    The priests silently moved through the sanctuary tending to the morning worshippers. Mumbled prayers buzzed through the air as some knelt at the feet of the seven statues, and the room smelled heavily of incense. The many stained-glass windows filled the room in a rainbow of colors that made the room an awesome sight. Halligan never grew tired of seeing the majesty dedicated to the Virtues.

    ¡°May I be of service, Sir Halligan?¡± A priest approached with a warm smile.

    ¡°Is Patron Waldren available?¡± Halligan shook himself from his stupor.

    ¡°We can see.¡± The priest ushered him along. ¡°He has a meeting coming up shortly, but I¡¯m certain he¡¯ll see you.¡±

    Halligan gave the priest a relieved smile and followed him to the back of the sanctuary. Patron Waldren tended to a large alter with imagery of all seven Virtues on it. His soft, plump hands were adorned with many golden rings that matched the splendor of his priestly robes. His grey sideburns were neatly trimmed as it grew into a groomed beard, and his hair was pulled back into a small ponytail.

    Walden gave Halligan a fatherly smile. ¡°It¡¯s good to see you, son. How may I be of service?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you as well Patron. I have a request I¡¯d like to make.¡± Halligan took a deep breath. ¡°I need help freeing a woman who¡¯s been enslaved.¡±

    ¡°Poor child.¡± Waldren shook his head in disgust. ¡°Slavery is one of the greatest sins that the tyrant Elithis taught mankind. Do you know where this poor woman is?¡±

    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s in the service of Lord Olivar Triemiere.¡±

    Waldren clicked his teeth in frustration. ¡°I¡¯m afraid there isn¡¯t much I can do. His Holiness has given pardons to the nobility when it comes to slavery. After all, it¡¯s a common form of punishment for the lowliest of scum.¡±

    ¡°But this woman¡¯s done nothing wrong!¡± Halligan pleaded. ¡°She was sold to pay off her family¡¯s debt.¡±

    ¡°Debt¡¯s must be paid, son.¡± Waldren sighed. ¡°If there¡¯s proof that Lord Olivar is mistreating the girl, then I can do something, but this matter is out of my hands.¡±

    ¡°Please, there must be-¡±

    ¡°Patron, your guests are here.¡±

    Halligan turned as a woman in fine clothing approached. She looked radiant in her modest dress, and the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman behind her was also stunning. So much so, he had trouble focusing on either woman. He remembered seeing them before at the Black Horn Guild. However, their names escaped him.

    ¡°Lady Meridith, I presume.¡± The Patron smiled as he kissed her knuckles. ¡°Master Baron failed to mention how beautiful you were.¡± His eyes flicked over to the attendant. ¡°Your servant is also quite stunning.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re too kind, Patron.¡± Meridith smiled warmly. ¡°But it seems we are interrupting something.¡±

    ¡°No, Sir Halligan and I were finished.¡± Waldren said with a stern gaze, and he gestured to a side door.

    ¡°I see, then if you¡¯ll excuse us Sir Halligan.¡± Meridith curtsied to him as she and her attendant followed the Patron.

    Halligan stared at the Amu¡¯Ryjin woman. She quickly glanced over at him, and for a moment, she looked afraid. Why would she be afraid?

    ¡°Is there anything else I can help you with?¡± Halligan¡¯s attention returned to the priest.

    Halligan groaned in embarrassment. ¡°May I speak with Lady Urielle?¡±

    Pain and sorrow painted the priest¡¯s face. ¡°Saint Urielle, hasn¡¯t been in the best condition as of late.¡± He sighed in sympathy. ¡°She¡¯s taken her failure quite hard and has holed herself up in her room.¡±

    ¡°Is it possible for me to see her?¡±

    <hr>

    Urielle lay there curled up on her bed. She tightly gripped her pillow as images flashed before her eyes. Clashing steel, rotten zombies, and a monster with piercing crimson eyes haunted her dreams. The thick stench of blood clung to her body, and all she could do was cry at all the death around her. The crunching of stone drew her attention as she stared up at Reviled Legion.

    It¡¯s bloody claws grabbed her throat and lifted her into the air. Tears stained her cheeks as the monster¡¯s lower face opened. A broken sob escaped her lips as she tried pulling the arms away, but it was useless. There was no one to help her. Halligan, Torrn, Emir, Regald, Giale, Nial, they all were dead at her feet. Reviled¡¯s tongue shot out, and Urielle woke from the fright.

    Urielle sat there as fear caused her heart to race. Her lower lip quivered, and she tried to fight back the tears, but it was pointless. The weight of her failure crushed her, and she cried into her pillow.

    A knock came from the door. ¡°Saint Urielle?¡± The title cut deep into her heart, and she buried herself deeper into her bed. ¡°Sir Halligan is here to see you.¡±

    Urielle wiped the tears from her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not decent. Tell him to come back later.¡± She croaked.

    ¡°Lady Urielle, please, I need to speak with you.¡± Halligan¡¯s voice broke through the barrier.

    Urielle slowly crawled out of bed. When she tried to stand, her legs betrayed her, and she fell onto the cold floor. She couldn¡¯t keep the sob from escaping her throat. At that moment, all she could feel was frustration. Warmth enveloped her, and she found herself staring into Halligan¡¯s face as he wrapped a blanket around her.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for intruding,¡± Halligan whispered, ¡°I heard you crying, and wanted to check on you.¡± Urielle pulled the blanket tighter. The embarrassment at having been seen in her naked state brought a blush to her cheeks.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t be here.¡± Urielle sniffled as she wiped her cheeks clean. ¡°I¡¯m simply a burden to all of you.¡±

    ¡°You aren¡¯t a-¡±

    ¡°Of course I am!¡± Urielle snapped. ¡°I couldn¡¯t do anything, and it¡¯s because of me that Giale and Elizar are dead. I¡¯m not a saint. I¡¯m simply a priestess from a small village.¡± Her head fell, and the tears blurred her vision. ¡°I should be tending to farmers and goodwives. I should be healing scraped knees or mild illness. Not fighting agents of the Dead Gods.¡± Urielle¡¯s face was veiled underneath her hair.

    ¡°I should be in the vineyards harvesting grapes.¡± Halligan replied with a somber voice. Urielle peaked at him from between her locks, and for a moment, the young man looked older than he should. ¡°But the woman I loved was sold into slavery. I was so desperate to save her that I ran away from home and enlisted in the army.¡± He pulled off the black gauntlet on his left arm to reveal the bleached white bones underneath. ¡°I grew impatient, and fear drove me to make a foolish mistake. Now, I¡¯m stuck with this tainted arm.¡±

    Urielle stared at the corrupted appendage. The black flesh around the elbow reeked of decay, and it contrasted against the rest of the flesh on his arm. The bones clacked with each movement. Strands of necrotic mana held the bones together and were the only reason why he could still control it.

    ¡°I¡¯m simply a farm boy, but I won¡¯t let that get in my way.¡± A small smile came to his lips. ¡°The woman I love is here in this city. For her sake, I can¡¯t give up now that she¡¯s so close, but I¡¯m unable to fight against Reviled Legion on my own. I need help.¡± He turned to Urielle, and she became enraptured by the fire burning in his green eyes.

    Urielle took his skeletal hand. ¡°I¡¯m merely a priestess from a small town, but I¡¯ll do everything in my power to help you.¡± The warm smile Halligan gave her made her heart skip, and her cheeks flushed for a different reason.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Halligan¡¯s skeletal fingers gently gripped her own. ¡°I¡¯ll gladly have your support.¡± Urielle¡¯s breath caught in her throat when he pulled away. ¡°I should let you get decent.¡±

    Urielle simply stared in awe as Halligan left. Her eyes traced the lines of his broad shoulders, and it was hard to see him as an apprentice. When the door closed, Urielle slowly rose to her feet. She took a few steps and stopped when her own reflection caught her attention.

    She was a complete mess. Her hair tangled and filthy from laying in bed for an entire week. Her pale skin still held traces of the filth from the failed expedition, and she suddenly became aware of the awful smell coming off her. Yet, a fire burned in her sunken eyes, and she pulled the cord that called the servants.

    It wasn¡¯t long for a knock to come from her door. ¡°Did you need something, my lady?¡± a priestess peeked inside.

    ¡°Have a bath ready, please, and also a change of clothes.¡± Urielle took a deep breath. ¡°Then, could see if Sir Emir is available.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    The door closed, and Urielle continued to stare at her own reflection. ¡°After what we went through, why would you still come to me for help?¡± She whispered as she remembered Halligan¡¯s warm smile, and a smile slowly formed on her own lips. ¡°You¡¯re so much more than a farm boy.¡± She placed her hand over her rapidly beating heart. ¡°And maybe, I can be more than a village priestess.¡±

 The Oruelians

    Baron gnawed on the end of his wooden pen. He hadn¡¯t expected to be managing the monster¡¯s finances. Truth be told, he never even imagined the monster would have finances to manage, but here he was counting out the immense sums of money that was being spent. Of course, he had to skim some for himself, and if he didn¡¯t get too greedy, no one would find out. The problem was that these expenditures were increasing rapidly and in greater sums.

    The bribe that went to the Church took a massive chunk out of the stockpiled gold. Then there were the costs for the parts of the Grand Phylactery. There weren¡¯t many master smiths in Jericho, so it was important to separate the orders to keep any one person from getting suspicious. That, however, meant a higher charge for the parts, and lastly, there was that damned House of Destiny. Thanks to the war, the costs of materials have increased beyond their true value. Baron was tearing out his hair trying to find cheap resources to rebuild the dilapidated manor, and it didn¡¯t help that the sanguinite¡¯s religion would simply be a money pit.

    The more Baron stared at the paperwork, the more his frustration grew. The main sources of income were from Taela¡¯s brothels and his brewery. The tavern that was Reviled¡¯s base was barely making an income, and so it mainly funded itself.

    ¡°Dammit, we need more money.¡± Baron scratched his head violently as he stared at the thick black negative mark over the total losses. ¡°At this rate we¡¯ll be bankrupt before the year is finished.¡± A knock sounded from the door. ¡°Come in Charolette.¡±

    ¡°Pardon to disturb you, but master Khasimir is here to see you.¡±

    Before Baron could respond, a man wrapped in multiple silk robes strode into the room. A silk hood hung from his shoulders along with the thick, oily, black locks of his long hair, and deep green scales broke up the bronze skin of his cheeks and neck. He gave Baron a smile that showed off his two long fangs and it reached all the way up to his deep emerald eyes with slit pupils.

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again, my friend.¡± Khasimir said. The emphasized Ss sent a shiver down Baron¡¯s back. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to hear about your father.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be.¡± Baron replied with a deep sigh. ¡°The old fool brought it on himself, and now I have to pay the price.¡±

    ¡°So, I take it then that you are not the new king?¡±

    ¡°No, I¡¯m not.¡±

    A sad smile came to Khasimir¡¯s lips. ¡°A shame. So, any reason you needed me to procure artistic slaves?¡±

    ¡°The King is looking to renovate the slums, and to do that he is planning to open a few shops. We need individuals to man those shops.¡±

    ¡°Well, then you are in luck.¡± Khasimir replied with a wide grin.

    ¡°That¡¯s good to hear.¡± Baron chuckled, handing Khasimir a permit. ¡°This will get you into the city. You can set up in the old arena, and you have a few days to get everything ready.¡±

    ¡°Will I get to meet the new King?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯ll be there tonight. He¡¯ll want first pick before anyone else.¡±

    Khasimir¡¯s eyes shine with greed. ¡°Then I better get everything ready.¡±

    <hr>

    Bright lights lit up the center of the warehouse courtyard. A singular round stage sat at the center of the arena with an extravagant red carpet leading from the entrance to the arena basement. Reviled was impressed at how quickly the slaver had set up.

    ¡°Is something the matter Mina?¡± Reviled turned to the young woman.

    Mina¡¯s eyes shifted around, and her breath caught in her throat. ¡°I¡¯m fine. This simply brings back bad memories.¡±

    ¡°Then you should have stayed at the tavern.¡± Reviled petted her head.

    ¡°No!¡± Mina swallowed as she stared into Reviled¡¯s hood. ¡°I¡¯m your attendant, and it¡¯s my duty to stay by your side.¡±

    Movement caught their attention. ¡°Good girl.¡± It turned to the arena entrance.

    Fanfare echoed throughout the arena as Khasimir stepped into the arena. His silk tunic hung loosely on his frame, exposing the green scales running along his chest. Golden chains hung around his neck, and rings with large stones decorated each finger. His thick hair had a dark green sheen as the torchlight struck it.

    ¡°Greetings sire!¡± Khasimir greeted them with a charming smile. ¡°I hope you are doing well this evening.¡±

    ¡°That depends on your product.¡± Reviled chuckled, pulling the cloak tighter around itself. ¡°We spent a lot of money. You had best come through.¡±

    ¡°You wound me sire.¡± Khasimir gasped in shock. ¡°I only deal in the best.¡± His eyes fell to the women around Reviled. ¡°Much like yourself.¡±

    ¡°True, then let us see what your best entails.¡±

    ¡°Of course. I know exactly who to start with.¡± Khasimir pulled a small whistle from his pocket and blew.

    A zymarrian woman walked down the red carpet until she stood in the center of the stage. She began swinging her wide hips wildly in a dance that made her generous figure shake seductively. The golden bangles around her ankles and wrists jingled with her movement, and they paired well with her violet scales and dark blue hair. Her alluring maroon eyes locked onto Reviled, and it couldn¡¯t help but chuckle as the ghost of a smile appeared behind her veil.

    ¡°So, she pleases you?¡±

    ¡°To some extent, but what are her skills?¡± Reviled replied.

    ¡°She gifted with her tongue, if you know what I mean.¡± Khasimir snickered at the scowl on Meridith¡¯s and Mina¡¯s face. ¡°She is also gifted in many artistic endeavors such as singing, dancing, and playing instruments.¡±Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.

    ¡°We already have a personal minstrel.¡± Reviled said looking at Mina. ¡°And we¡¯d be a fool to replace her.¡±

    ¡°I still think we should buy her Sire.¡± Taela stepped forward, appraising the slave. ¡°Zymarrian women are rumored to be skilled prostitutes, and with her other skills, she¡¯d bring in the money.¡± Reviled looked at the woman again. The zymarrian woman cocked her hips at him with a seductive smile.

    ¡°It¡¯s an interesting idea, but aren¡¯t you overstaffed.¡± Reviled glanced at Taela.

    ¡°Never underestimate how influential a prostitute can be sire.¡± Taela replied with a glint in her eye. ¡°She¡¯d easily find herself the favorite of many powerful men.¡±

    Reviled tapped its claws in thought. ¡°Very well Taela. We¡¯ll heed your advice.¡± It turned to the slaver. ¡°How much?¡±

    ¡°In hopes of cultivating a lasting relationship, I¡¯ll sell her for a hundred and fifty gold.¡±

    ¡°One hundred gold.¡±

    ¡°One twenty-five.¡±

    ¡°Deal.¡±

    Khasimir laughed in delight and snapped his fingers. The zymarrian woman jumped off the stage and sidled up to Reviled.

    She rubbed against Reviled with a sensual smile. ¡°My name is Cynmora.¡± The woman said with a throaty hiss. ¡°It is a pleasure to serve you master, whatever you may desire.¡± She reached into the hood and ran a finger along its metal jaw.

    Reviled chuckled at her confused frown. ¡°You play a dangerous game girl.¡± Its gaze flashed to the women growling at her.

    A cloaked hand wrapped around her, and Cynmora¡¯s frown turned to a smile. She let out a groan as Reviled¡¯s claw rested against her back, and it turned into a pained moan as the magic surged through her. Cynmora panted heavily as she rested against her new master.

    ¡°I¡¯m truly yours now.¡± Cynmora chuckled with hooded eyes.

    ¡°Now¡¯s not the time.¡± Meridith snapped pulling her away. ¡°Taela, take care of your new prostitute.¡± Taela took the zymarrian¡¯s arm and led her away. Cynmora waved at Reviled and blew him a quick kiss. ¡°The nerve.¡± Meridith huffed.

    ¡°Come now, Meridith.¡± Reviled replied, brushing her hair.

    Meridith scoffed in disgust and stepped away. ¡°I think we should look through the rest of the slaves. There might be more women that catch your eye.¡± A chuckle escaped Khasimir¡¯s lips as he snapped his fingers again.

    The next slave was a zymarrian man. His scrawny frame was indicative of a scholar, but he did hold himself with a noble air. The man was a former shop keep. Reviled didn¡¯t hesitate to purchase him.

    The next was a levian woman. Her plain features made her unremarkable compared to the zymarrians. There was no life in her dull, brown eyes, and scars lined her body. Her right thumb rubbed the pitted brass ring on her left hand. Reviled had no need for a broken widow, and she was dragged away.

    Levian and zymarrian slaves were paraded before them, but none caught their attention. Each one that Reviled passed caused sweat to form on Khasimir¡¯s forehead. The last slave was led back to the arena, his sullen face directed to the ground.

    ¡°Is this all?¡± Reviled growled.

    ¡°No, I was simply saving the best for last.¡± Khasimir gestured to the guard at the entrance. ¡°I think it¡¯s time to bring out the oruelians.¡±

    All eyes turned to the entrance. The rattling of chains echoed from the darkened opening. Out stepped a towering man with charcoal black skin. Dull grey hair hung down to his back with small grey studs lining his collarbone. The wooden steps creaked under his weight as he stepped onto the stage. His muscles stretched against the rough cloth of his clothes, and his clenched fists crushed the chains in his hands.

    ¡°This oruelian has skills in blacksmithing.¡± Khasimir said with a smug smile. ¡°He also has skills in masonry and leatherworking.¡±

    Reviled stared up into the man¡¯s wide, square face. His nose was bent with a large scar running across the bridge. A thin, wispy mustache dusted his upper lip.

    ¡°What is your name?¡± Reviled called out to him.

    ¡°Temour.¡± He said in a deep bass tone.

    ¡°How skilled are you at smithing?¡±

    Temour raised his head and stared down at Reviled. ¡°There is none better than I.¡± Despite his dour face, a fire burned in his eyes. He opened his fists, and the chains connecting his manacles together fell. The links on each end were shaped into flowers. The twisted metal was quite beautiful. ¡°See.¡±

    ¡°Interesting.¡± Reviled chuckled. ¡°How much?¡±

    ¡°Well, we zymarrians take pride in cultivating our oruelians.¡± Khasimir replied with a tight smile. ¡°I won¡¯ bore you with the details, but when he says he¡¯s the best, I wouldn¡¯t doubt it.¡± Reviled glared at the slaver with a low growl. ¡°Seven hundred gold.¡±

    Reviled nodded. ¡°Are there any other skilled oruelians?¡±

    ¡°I have three. The blacksmith, a seamstress, and a carpenter.¡±

    ¡°Very well, two thousand for all three.¡±

    Khasimir choked on his breath. ¡°Pardon?¡±

    ¡°We will buy all three oruelians for two thousand gold.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s quite generous, but-¡±

    ¡°We will drop our cut of the profits from twenty-five percent down to ten.¡±

    ¡°You have a deal!¡± Khasimir wildly waved at the guards. ¡°Bring the other two out!¡±

    In a single leap, Reviled stood next to Temour. Even at full height, Reviled was staring up into his face. Dull grey veins broke up his black. Reviled tapped on the strange complexion, and there was a scraping of metal on metal.

    ¡°You are unfamiliar with mine kind?¡± Temour cocked a disinterested brow.

    ¡°We¡¯ve heard the tales, but we were uncertain if they were true.¡± Reviled replied with a curious gaze. ¡°To think your kind truly do grow metal from your bodies.¡±

    Chains clanked as the other two oruelians stepped onto the stage. Both had lighter tone of ashy black skin, but their hair was fiery copper. A crown of copper studs grew on their forehead. Their similar features clearly marked them as related. The bronze oruelian man was slightly shorter than Temour, and the woman was slightly taller than Reviled. They both had the same listless expression as Temour.

    ¡°We won¡¯t have need of these.¡± Reviled swiped at their bindings, cutting them free. The oruelians slightly twitched in confusion. ¡°We prefer this instead.¡±

    Reviled poked Temour in the chest. He didn¡¯t even flinch as the magic carved the slave crest into his skin, and when it was over, he scratched at the marking. The other two were the same, and both barely registered the crest now marking their flesh.

    ¡°Are we permitted to know thine name, master?¡± The female oruelian asked.

    ¡°We are Reviled Legion, and what are your names?¡±

    A slightly amused smile appeared on the bronze woman¡¯s face. ¡°Ezet, and that is mine brother Zesh.¡± The bronze man nodded in agreement. ¡°Forgive him master, but Zesh can no longer speak.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± Reviled inspected him but found no wounds on his neck. However, it became apparent when Zesh opened his mouth.

    ¡°Our last master was quick to anger, and mine brother bore the brunt of her wrath.¡±

    ¡°Then you shall be his voice.¡± Reviled turned to Ezet. ¡°Speak up should you need anything.¡±

    ¡°Thine mercy is wasted on us.¡± Ezet bowed her head deeply.

    ¡°And one other thing.¡± Reviled grabbed her chin directed her head so that she stared into its eyes. Fear twisted her face, and she tried to look away. ¡°Look us in the eyes when you speak to us.¡±

    ¡°We are unworthy.¡± Temour said gruffly.

    ¡°That is for us to decide, and we have decided that you will look at us when you speak. Understand?¡± The three oruelians nodded. ¡°Good, then come with us.¡± It jumped down and turned to Khasimir. ¡°We recommend you tend to your slaves. Some looked dreadful.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll see to it they are ready for the auction.¡±

    Reviled nodded and strode towards the exit. The oruelians¡¯ footsteps thundered behind them. Meridith and Mina flanked both of Reviled¡¯s sides.

    ¡°You found yourself another woman.¡± Meridith said with a venomous tone.

    ¡°You know master, back home there is a saying.¡± Mina replied with her own icy tone. ¡°A man who picks too many peaches often comes home with none.¡±

    ¡°And nothing makes a woman uglier than jealousy.¡± Reviled chuckled when both women scowled at it. ¡°Besides, what¡¯s more important are their skills, not their looks.¡±

    ¡°But you were quite enchanted by Cynmora¡¯s dancing.¡± Taela chimed in.

    ¡°I¡¯ll gladly dance for you whenever you desire master.¡± Two pairs of eyes glared at the zymarrian woman as they left.

 Absolution Pt.1

    Blades clashed together filling the air with ringing. Halligan rolled to the side, barely dodging the attack aimed at his head. He stabbed at Kogna, but the Amu¡¯Ryjin danced to the side as he parried the attack. Kogna moved through the training circle with swift grace. Training with Kogna was different from when he trained with Solomon.

    Solomon¡¯s style was straight forward. He would always attack head on, aiming at key points like the head and heart. Solomon relied on his strength to break through his opponent¡¯s guard, something Halligan was deeply familiar with, but Kogna was completely different.

    Another of Kogna¡¯s attacks slipped past Halligan¡¯s guard, and he was forced to take a step back. Fighting with Kogna felt like he was fighting against the wind. Kogna always found a way to slip past his guard, and it forced him to rely solely on his reflexes. Whenever he tried retaliating, Kogna would turn his attack against him. The longer they fought, the more the differences in their skills became apparent.

    Halligan desperately swung his sword. Kogna¡¯s sword sang as it parried the strike, and with the opening, he struck Halligan in the gut. The young fighter gasped for breath and fell to his knees and sweat formed on his face as the cold steel touched his neck.

    ¡°You¡¯re dead.¡± Kogna said matter-of-factly as he sheathed his sword.

    ¡°Why can¡¯t I get any better?¡± Halligan coughed, wiping the spit from his face.

    Kogna pulled him to his feet. ¡°You are getting better. Your reflexes have sharpened considerably since we last sparred.¡±

    ¡°But I still couldn¡¯t land a hit.¡± Halligan punched the ground.

    ¡°How long have you been a swordsman?¡±

    ¡°About two years.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve carried a sword since I was thirteen.¡± Kogna replied, regret filled his voice. ¡°And yet, even I was bested by a group of thugs.¡± With a deep breath, he turned to Halligan. ¡°You¡¯re training will never end, remember that.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, Sir Kogna.¡±

    ¡°Sir Halligan! Sir Kogna!¡± They both turned as Phineas approached them. ¡°I have your monthly stipend.¡± He handed each of them a small leather purse.

    Kogna bowed deeply. ¡°Thank you, my lord.¡± He said, putting the five gold coins into his own purse.

    ¡°Thank you, your grace.¡± Halligan stared at the three gold coins. He pulled out his purse and stared at the small pile of gold coins. He scrunched his nose trying to recall his total. That should be fifty-two. He let out a deep sigh. ¡°How am I to earn seven hundred gold?¡±

    ¡°Why do you need seven hundred gold coins?¡±

    Halligan cleared his throat. ¡°There¡¯s something I wish to buy.¡±

    ¡°Sounds like you¡¯re being taken advantage of.¡± Phineas shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s very few things worth that much money.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s something important sir, so I have little choice but to pay it.¡±

    ¡°Be careful, I¡¯d hate for you to be swindled.¡± Phineas turned and walked away.

    ¡°I should get back to Lady Priscilla.¡± Kogna wiped his face. ¡°If you need more work, then I suggest looking into the adventurers guild.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, sir.¡±

    With a deep breath, Halligan washed himself clean from the overflowing water barrel. The sweltering summer heat wasn¡¯t as intense today, and a pleasant breeze brushed against his skin. With a fresh set of clothes, he headed into the castle.

    He wandered through the halls of the castle and stopped in front of the library. Without Elizar, research into Reviled Legion had come to a complete halt. Emir was still looking into it, but without a skilled mage, their efforts weren¡¯t producing fruit. They needed to find something that could assist them. Halligan slowly walked away from the library but stopped when he noticed Myraelle standing beside a door. He was about to approach when Lord Olivar stepped out of the room.

    ¡°How did it go master?¡± Myra smiled brightly at the fat noble.

    ¡°Terribly.¡± Olivar growled storming away from Halligan. ¡°Lady Priscilla is too absorbed in her work. She should be learning to be a wife, not overseeing the city.¡±

    ¡°I completely agree master.¡± Myra replied. She ran a finger across his neck. ¡°Is there anything I can do to ease your tensions?¡±

    ¡°Not now woman. Is my costume ready for the auction tonight?¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡±

    ¡°Good, maybe I¡¯ll be fortunate enough to buy a beautiful zymarrian tonight. Dead Gods know I¡¯d like to see if the rumors are true.¡±

    ¡°Are you going to replace me?¡±

    ¡°Of course not, I¡¯m simply looking to add to my collection.¡±

    Halligan froze and a shiver ran down his spine. Olivar and Myra disappeared around a corner, but the words still hung in the air. Halligan turned around and ran through the halls. As he hurried down the stairs, memories surfaced.

    A caged wagon loomed in the center of the village. The armed guards dragged people away from their screaming families, and the slaver stared down at them with malicious glee. His heart stopped when Myra¡¯s father brought her forward. Halligan screamed for him to stop, but his sunken eyes shined with desperation. The slaver tossed a coin purse to Myra¡¯s father, and the spindly arms shook under the weight. His gaunt face had a conflicted smile as he watched his daughter be taken away.

    Halligan charged forward, tackling one of the guards. He screamed for Myra to run, but she stared down at him with a defeated smile. He reached out for her, but a metal fist struck his face. The guards tossed him to the side and in anger started beating him. Their armored boots struck his stomach, head, and back, and his blood seeped into the muddy ground. He tried looking at Myra, but a boot struck his face. Halligan groaned and he clawed at the ground, trying to get closer to the wagon. His vision wavered as he watched the wagon roll away.

    Sweat poured from Halligan¡¯s face as he stormed into the cathedral. Remembering that day made his sick, and it reignited his anger.This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.

    A priestess rapidly approached him with a worried look. ¡°Sir Halligan, is there something I can help you with?¡±

    ¡°I need to speak with Saint Urielle.¡± He panted, trying to calm down.

    A slight blush appeared on the priestess¡¯ face. ¡°Saint Urielle is indisposed now. Perhaps if you come back later-¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s important!¡± Halligan¡¯s shout echoed through the hall. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s something that the church should know of.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll take you to waiting room, then I¡¯ll let the Saint know you are here.¡±

    Halligan silently followed the woman. Despite the warmth coming from the sun, all he felt was cold. His heart thundered in his chest, and his throat dried with each breath. The priestess gestured to a door, and Halligan entered the sitting room.

    The comfortable room didn¡¯t help him relax. Instead, he paced around the room with his shoulders tense. Doubts gnawed at his mind. Will she help? Is there anything we can do? Who else could help us?

    The door burst opened. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to keep you waiting.¡± Urielle panted as she stepped inside. Her skin glistened in the light, and her wet hair clung to her face. ¡°I hurried when I heard you were here. So, what did you wish to speak about?" She fixed her hair as she sat down.

    ¡°I need your help.¡± Halligan said sitting across from her. Urielle leaned forward with a small smile. ¡°I believe there is a slave auction being held in the city.¡±

    Urielle¡¯s smile disappeared. ¡°What makes you think that?¡±

    ¡°I overheard a lord in the castle mention an auction.¡± Halligan tapped his foot in thought. ¡°He mentioned buying a zymarrian, and since he¡¯s known to have a slave attending him, I concluded that it must be a slave auction.¡±

    ¡°I understand.¡± Urielle pouted in frustration. ¡°You are right to be concerned, and we should investigate this immediately.¡± Urielle stood and headed to the door. ¡°Come, we should speak with Patron Waldren.¡±

    Halligan rushed to her side as she led the way to the Patron¡¯s office. Urielle knocked on the door.

    ¡°Enter.¡±

    Urielle pushed into the room. The Patron sat behind his desk filling out paperwork. His small spectacles sat on the edge of his nose as he set the pen to the side, and he gave them a warm smile.

    ¡°Saint Urielle, Sir Halligan, how may I be of service?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb you sir, but Sir Halligan has brought something to my attention.¡± Urielle stepped further in with her eyes cast downwards. ¡°There¡¯s a slave auction being held in the city.¡±

    Waldren¡¯s eyes widened in horror. ¡°How do you know this?¡±

    ¡°He overheard a noble in the castle talk about buying a zymarrian at an auction.¡±

    Waldren¡¯s shoulders relaxed, and he rubbed his eyes. ¡°So, it¡¯s hearsay.¡±

    ¡°Sir, we should be taking this seriously.¡± Urielle cried in disgust.

    ¡°Was it Lord Triemiere?¡± Waldren looked at Halligan with a knowing smile.

    ¡°Yes sir.¡± Halligan sighed.

    ¡°Son, you should let this go.¡± Waldren chuckled as Urielle looked between them in confusion. ¡°I¡¯m sorry that someone you care about is in his employ, but to try and manipulate the Saint is unbecoming.¡±

    ¡°But sir-¡±

    ¡°Enough, I will not waste my time on rumors.¡± Waldren slammed his fist onto his desk. ¡°Show me proof that there is a slave auction, and then I¡¯ll act. Now leave.¡± They stared in disbelief as the Patron shooed them away.

    Urielle closed the door behind her with a defeated frown. ¡°What do we do now?¡±

    ¡°We need to find proof.¡± Halligan growled in frustration. ¡°This auction isn¡¯t legal, so maybe we should ask Baron if he knows anything.¡±

    ¡°I agree. I¡¯ll have a carriage brought to the front.¡±

    <hr>

    Once again, they stood outside Baron¡¯s manor. Several workers moved about the lawn cleaning up the overgrown weeds and shearing the hedges back. A content smile decorated their faces. A patch depicting a golden book was stitched onto the back of their vests.

    ¡°How may I be of service?¡± one of the workers approached. His warm, gentle smile felt off putting.

    ¡°We here to see master Baron. Is he home?¡± Halligan replied looking around. ¡°It seems he is doing much better than last we saw him.¡±

    ¡°Of course he is!¡± The man bellowed in laughter. ¡°He is a staunch support of the House of Destiny, and so he has the blessing of the Lady of Fate. It¡¯s an honor to serve such a faithful man.¡±

    ¡°The House of Destiny. I¡¯ve never heard of such a thing before.¡± Urielle looked skeptically at the man.

    ¡°It¡¯s not quite a house yet.¡± The Gardener replied with a sheepish smile. ¡°Father Eirgn is still building it. Master Baron was kind enough to give us work and lodging. Truly, those two have been a blessing to us all.¡± The man shook his head in mirth. ¡°But you¡¯re here to see him, not hear our life story. Come in, and I¡¯ll let him know you¡¯re here.¡±

    Urielle turned to Halligan in confusion as they followed the man. As they entered, they were met with several women bustling about with brooms and dusters in hand. Much like the men outside, they wore pleasant smiles and they each hummed a slight tune as they performed their tasks. Their aprons had the same golden book embroidered into them.

    A woman with a baby secured to her back approached. ¡°Guests, how wonderful.¡± She beamed at them.

    ¡°They¡¯re here to see master Baron, Ilda.¡± The Gardener chuckled. ¡°I was about to go see him.¡±

    An embarrassed flush came to Ilda¡¯s face. ¡°Master Baron is busy with mistress Charolette and Lady Taela, Thom. I recommend addressing him through the door.¡±

    ¡°Lucky bastard.¡± Thom¡¯s chortle echoed through the hall.

    ¡°Father, that¡¯s no way to speak about master Baron!¡± Two young women sneered at the man.

    Thom¡¯s chuckle faded. ¡°I¡¯ll go let him know you¡¯re here.¡± He said before running upstairs.

    Halligan whispered to Urielle as he watched the women work. ¡°Have you heard about this Lady of Fate before?¡±

    ¡°No, none of the Virtues claim fate as their own.¡± Urielle eyed the women with worry. ¡°I hope they aren¡¯t being taken advantage of by some charlatan, and Virtues forbid it be a Dead God¡¯s cult.¡±

    ¡°Hey, he¡¯ll see you now!¡± Thom waved at them from the top of the stairs.

    ¡°I¡¯ll have Sir Emir look into after we¡¯re don with this.¡± Urielle waved back with a polite smile.

    Halligan looked at the women one last time before following them. Thom happily hummed along as he led them through the halls to a set of double doors. He tapped his knuckles on the door in rhythm.

    ¡°Enter.¡± Halligan took a deep breath and pushed the door open. Urielle squeaked awkwardly.

    Baron sat on the sofa in a plush purple robe with his chest exposed. Charolette leaned against him in a sheer nightgown that exposed her plump thighs and generous amounts of cleavage. Another woman leaned against Baron¡¯s other side wearing a similar nightgown. Baron tenderly caressed the women in his arms as he looked at them.

    ¡°My friends, it¡¯s a pleasure to see you again.¡± Baron smiled warmly. ¡°To what do I owe the pleasure.¡±

    ¡°Well.¡± Halligan cleared his throat trying to avert his gaze from the two women. When he glanced over at Urielle, her face was completely flushed and her wide eyes trained on the women. ¡°We were hoping you could help us something.¡±

    ¡°And how may I be of service?¡± Baron leaned forward with his legs spread apart. Urielle squealed in shock as she hid her face. ¡°Sorry.¡±

    ¡°Master Baron, please take this seriously.¡± Halligan snapped, stepping in front of Urielle. ¡°Do you know about a slave auction being held in the city?¡±

    ¡°Yes, truth be told, I¡¯m quite familiar with the slaver holding the auction.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯re wanting to put a stop to it, and we need your help in getting evidence that¡¯s it happening.¡±

    ¡°You may be a little late for that.¡± Baron chuckled. ¡°The auction is tonight.¡±

    Halligan¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°The auction¡¯s tonight, and the slaver will be leaving tomorrow. I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    Urielle shouted in frustration. ¡°What about those slaves? We can¡¯t simply leave them.¡±

    ¡°Then why not go yourselves.¡± Taela replied, sitting up. ¡°You two can go in disguise as buyers, then you can free the slaves before the auction starts.¡±

    ¡°You can get us in?¡± Halligan sighed in relief.

    ¡°We can, but you won¡¯t have much time.¡± He said in thought. ¡°You¡¯ll have about thirty minutes between the viewing and the start of the auction. Also, you¡¯re going to need proper clothing.¡± He smiled knowingly at Urielle.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Urielle glared suspiciously at him.

    ¡°We¡¯re not trying to be rude, Lady Urielle, but women tend to wear more revealing attire.¡± Charolette smiled sympathetically.

    ¡°But that¡¯s disgraceful!¡±

    Baron replied sternly, ¡°Do you wish to save these people?¡± Urielle sighed and nodded. ¡°Then you¡¯ll need to dress in a way that lets you blend in.¡± A lecherous smile touched his lips. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Taela and Charolette will help with that.¡±

    ¡°Of course we will.¡± The two women stood up and took Urielle¡¯s arms. ¡°We don¡¯t have much time, so we had best hurry.¡± Urielle stammered in protest as the women pulled her away.

    Halligan stared dumbfounded as they disappeared. A hand rested on his shoulder, and he stared into Baron¡¯s mischievous eyes.

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry my friend. They¡¯ll take good care of her.¡± He chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m certain you¡¯re going to enjoy this date.¡±

 Absolution pt.2

    Urielle cursed under her breath as she tried covering her exposed cleavage. Lady Taela and mistress Charolette enjoyed every minute spent dolling her up, but the results left her too stunned for words. Her ivory hair rolled down her back and shoulders in thick waves, and her face felt heavy from the rouge. Her icy blue dress clung to her body, outlining her curves, with a wide slit exposing her left leg. The mantle around her shoulders matched it but it was too short to cover herself. She felt hot despite sitting next to the foggy window.

    They hadn¡¯t had time to return to the cathedral, a matter that Urielle thanked Shecoga for. She didn¡¯t want to explain this to the others. From the window, the streetlamps slowly moved by. Something pressed against her hand, and she turned to stare into Taela¡¯s smiling face.

    ¡°You have no reason to be embarrassed.¡± Taela¡¯s eyes slowly took her in. Heat radiated from her cheeks, and she couldn¡¯t understand how Taela sat there so confidently. The woman wore a dress far more revealing than her own and it looked truly sinful with the dark red silk. ¡°You look truly stunning. Right, Sir Halligan?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Halligan chuckled nervously. ¡°You look beautiful, my lady.¡±

    Urielle¡¯s eyes widened in embarrassment as she turned to the man. He wore a simple black suit with a white ascot. It wasn¡¯t anything special, unlike Baron¡¯s tailored suit, yet she considered him to be the most handsome of the two.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Urielle stammered, hiding behind her hair. ¡°And you look handsome as well.¡± Halligan gave her a small smile.

    ¡°I think we should have taken a separate carriage.¡± Baron laughed, but his mirth was cut short when Taela stomped on his foot.

    ¡°Behave, or Charolette and I will punish you tonight.¡± Taela¡¯s sweet smile didn¡¯t match her threatening tone.

    Urielle gasped in horror, but Halligan thankfully interrupted them. ¡°How do these auctions work?¡± He said, straightening his tie. ¡°Is this anything like the black-market auction at the theater?¡±

    ¡°No, this is completely different.¡± Baron smirked sarcastically. ¡°This is a whole different beast. We¡¯ll have an hour before the auction starts, but for a price, we¡¯ll be able to see the merchandise before its starts.¡±

    ¡°Those are people!¡± Urielle barked in disgust.

    ¡°Unfortunately, that doesn¡¯t mean much. There are thousands, maybe millions of people throughout the world, and I¡¯m to believe all are precious?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Urielle¡¯s anger tinged her words. ¡°That¡¯s why the Virtues bestow their gifts onto us.¡±

    ¡°Then what about those that worship the Dead Gods?¡± Baron¡¯s smile grew more wicked.

    A deep frown came to her lips. ¡°They are a sad people who trade a meaningful life for one of debase pleasure.¡±

    Baron shook his head with a light chuckle. ¡°I hate to tell you this Lady Saint, but there are people out there chasing debauchery without serving the Dead Gods. You¡¯re about to see quite a few of them.¡± The carriage rocked to a halt as Baron adorned his masquerade mask. ¡°I hope you¡¯re ready.¡±

    The door opened, and they were assaulted by the bright lights coming from the arena. Baron helped Taela to the street, and they sauntered over to the building. Urielle adjusted her mask as she stared at the other people.

    The men wore exquisite suits that showed off their great wealth, and the women wore dresses that would make anyone blush. The patrons laughed and jested with each other as they spoke about their desires for the night. She felt grateful for the mask. Being new to the city would make it difficult for others to recognize her.

    ¡°My lady.¡± Halligan held out his hand. Urielle gingerly took it and stepped to the street. She wrapped her arm around his and they followed Baron to inside.

    Urielle didn¡¯t like how some of the men looked at her. Their eyes shined with lust, and she desperately wished for a cloak. Of course, it wasn¡¯t just her. The men also leered at Taela.

    The woman smiled seductively at each man, charming her way through the crowd. The men smiled back, enjoying her attention, and they gave Baron a warm greeting when they approached. Something about the exchanges reminded her of the balls she attended when she was anointed as a saint.

    Baron approached a richly dressed zymarrian. ¡°An excellent turnout I see.¡± He snickered as he shook the zymarrian¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Indeed, I¡¯m looking forward to this auction.¡± The zymarrian glanced over to Urielle and Halligan. ¡°Are these friends of yours?¡±

    ¡°You could say that,¡± Baron replied, ¡°They were desperate to come.¡±

    ¡°That makes me happy to hear.¡± The zymarrian laughed gesturing to a set of stairs leading down. ¡°Please, go inspect my merchandise. I¡¯m certain you¡¯ll find someone that appeals to your tastes.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll hold you to it.¡± Halligan replied which made the zymarrian laugh.

    Halligan led Urielle towards the staircase, when another couple stepped in front of them. The couple flashed them a smug smile, but the guard at the stairs stopped them.

    ¡°There¡¯s a fee to preview the merchandise.¡± The guard replied, holding out a hand. ¡°Twenty gold, please.¡±

    Urielle went pale. ¡°I don¡¯t have any coins on me,¡± She whispered. She turned to Halligan. His eyes stared at the ground with a conflicted sneer. ¡°Are you alright?¡±

    ¡°I can pay it.¡± Halligan said through gritted teeth. The pain in his eyes made her stomach twist in guild, and she placed a comforting hand on his.

    ¡°Thank you. I¡¯ll see to it the Church reimburses you.¡± Halligan gave her a small smile as they approached the stairs.

    ¡°There¡¯s a fee to preview the merchandise. Twenty gold, please.¡±

    Halligan¡¯s hands shook as he pulled out the purse from his coat pocket. Urielle saw the pain in his eyes as he pulled out the coins. Each coin landed into the guard¡¯s hand with an awful clack until twenty golden coins glistened in the torch light.

    The guard calmly poured them into a sack at his side. ¡°Thank you, sir. Please enjoy yourself.¡± Halligan smiled politely as he led Urielle downstairs.

    The well-lit tunnel had guards lined up at evenly spaced intervals, and they guided the two of them to a large circular room. Various booths lined the perimeter of the room with the slaves standing ready for inspection. They were all cleaned and properly groomed despite the chains around their wrists and ankles. The two navigated through the crowds, slowly inspecting each slave.

    They stopped at a zymarrian man. His silver scales glistened from fresh oil, and their sheen rippled across his muscular body. Several of the women swooned as he gave them a charming smile. Urielle shivered when the zymarrian turned his ivory gaze to her. Despite his physical attraction, the wink he threw her made her stomach turn. Halligan pulled Urielle away when her grip tightened around his arm.

    ¡°Zymarrians are such crass creatures.¡± Urielle whispered in disgust. ¡°To allow oneself to indulge in such lustful manner is to give ones life to the Harlot.¡± Her other hand rested against her heart as she tried to ignore the stares. ¡°I hate this dress, and I hate their stares.¡±

    ¡°I think you look beautiful.¡±

    Urielle turned to Halligan in shock. Unlike the others who leered after her body, his eyes remained fixed onto hers. Staring into his blue eyes made her face burn, and she had to look away.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± She muttered as she hid behind her hair. ¡°But we should focus on the slaves.¡±

    ¡°Dammit!¡± Urielle yelped as Halligan pulled her into the crowd staring at a dark skinned levian woman.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Urielle looked around in worry until she saw a couple approached them.

    The rotund man prowled through the room with an imperious grin and his eyes lingered on the exposed flesh of every woman. At his side was a beautiful woman with golden-red hair. Her sheer dress openly revealed the slave crest branded on her bosom, but she clung to her master with a firm embrace. Urielle turned to Halligan, but he tried to keep his face hidden.

    ¡°Quite the selection they have,¡± The obese man stared greedily at a zymarrian woman playing a harp. ¡°Hopefully, I¡¯ll be able to steal myself a proper zymarrian.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯ll be difficult master.¡± The woman sighed. ¡°Your funds are limited, unlike everyone else here.¡±

    Urielle watched as the two of them left the room, then she turned towards Halligan. ¡°Do you know them?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the woman I love.¡± Halligan whispered as he watched the woman. ¡°I¡¯m trying to free her, but the only way I can is to buy her. However, that noble asked for a sum that is beyond my means.¡±This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    Sudden realization dawned on her. The guilt of making him pay for their entry redoubled, and she tightly grabbed his hand.

    ¡°I promise, I¡¯ll do everything in my power to help you free her.¡± Urielle said in a hushed voice.

    ¡°Thank you, my lady.¡± Urielle¡¯s heart fluttered at the bright smile he gave her, and she quickly turned her gaze to the slave in front of them.

    The woman in front of them glistened in the lantern light, and a veil covered the lower half of her face. However, her dark eyes were dull and lifeless, and her movements were lethargic. Despite her suffering, everyone around her eyed her like a head of cattle.

    Urielle glanced around at the other slaves around them. The levians were acting much like the woman in front of her, but the zymarrians were flaunting themselves. Seeing a people that openly sought to sell themselves into slavery made her realize how much she didn¡¯t know of the world. She truly was just a small village priestess. Her contemplation was interrupted by Halligan¡¯s pained groan.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±

    ¡°My gauntlet¡¯s acting up.¡± Urielle stared in horror.

    A bell rang through the room, and everyone turned to a group standing by the doorway. A lithe woman with sun-like hair held the bell, and her sky-blue mask matched her dress. Beside her was a woman with fiery hair and a black and red dress. Her black mask inspired an ominous feeling. However, it was the tall, cloaked figure behind them that drew her eyes.

    ¡°Notice the woman behind the cloaked figure.¡±

    Urielle pulled her eyes away from the figure to the small woman hiding behind him. Her black hair shimmered like the night sky, and her ivory dress clung to her body. Her short stature made her curves stand out the most. There was something familiar about her even though a mask covered her face.

    ¡°Thank you everyone for coming,¡± The sun-haired woman said, ¡°The King of Jericho appreciates your patronage, and he hopes that you all enjoy the auction.¡± The crowd applauded politely with a few cheering. ¡°As of right now, we are closing the preview since the auctions is about to start. Our Sire prays that each of you come away victorious.¡±

    Urielle kept her eyes trained on the cloaked figure, but magic kept her from seeing under the hood. Halligan lightly pulled her away, so that they blended into the crowd. The crowd dispersed on the ground floor.

    Urielle and Halligan stepped to the side, waiting for the crowd to pass. They spotted Baron and Taela conversing with a group of nobles. They waved the hero and priestess over with a charismatic smile, and they finished their conversation with a laugh.

    ¡°So, what¡¯d you think of the preview?¡± Baron smirked at them.

    ¡°It¡¯s terrible.¡± Urielle remarked with a sneer. ¡°How can they treat them in such a way?¡±

    Baron gave her a indifferent shrug. ¡°Such is the way of the world, but how are you going to get them out?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± She muttered hiding her face. ¡°Maybe we can try sneaking them out.¡±

    Baron cackled which caused Urielle to shrink away. He reached into his pocket, producing a key.

    ¡°There is a gate down below that leads to the sewers. Taela and I will cause a scene allowing you to sneak downstairs. After that, it¡¯s all on you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you both.¡± Urielle sighed deeply as Halligan took the key.

    Taela took Urielle¡¯s hands and smiled sweetly at her. ¡°Good luck.¡± She then leaned forward and whispered. ¡°You should enjoy yourself more, especially with a handsome young man.¡± Urielle gasped in shock as Taela gave Halligan a peck on the cheek. ¡°Take care of her. Women are delicate creatures.¡±

    ¡°Yes ma¡¯am.¡± Halligan replied stiffly.

    Taela wrapped an arm around Baron and pulled him away. They approached the stairs leading to the second floor, when Taela spun around smacking Baron hard.

    ¡°You pig!¡± Taela screamed in horror, drawing everyone¡¯s attention. ¡°Guards! Help, I¡¯m being assaulted!¡± She screamed louder as Baron violently grabbed her.

    ¡°You damned whore! I paid you for the entire night. I own you!¡± Baron shouted back while groping her chest. Their struggle drew the attention of the guards, and Halligan pulled Urielle back to the stairs when the guard left.

    The underground tunnels were quieter now that everyone had left. The two of them crept through, listening for any guards. They could hear voices coming from the entrance to the circular room.

    ¡°All right, master Khasimir wishes to start this auction off strong.¡± Halligan peeked around the corner to see seven guards standing in the center of the room. ¡°We¡¯ll be starting off with you.¡± The Head Guard pointed to a beautiful zymarrian woman who was tuning her harp. ¡°I and another guard will be escorting the slaves upstairs, you two will guard the vault, and the rest of you will remain here. Make sure you perform your patrols though. We don¡¯t want anyone sneaking in here that shouldn¡¯t be here.¡±

    The guards acknowledged the order as the Head Guard unchained the Harpist and led her through the opposite doorway. Two more guards followed suit, but they turned the opposite way. The three remaining guards stood huddled together until one groaned in frustration.

    ¡°Better get it over with.¡± The Guard sighed as he headed towards them.

    Halligan pushed Urielle back. ¡°A guard¡¯s coming.¡±

    ¡°What do we do?¡± Urielle¡¯s eyes darted back and forth. ¡°There¡¯s nowhere to hide.¡±

    Halligan¡¯s mind raced as he looked around. She was right, there was nowhere to hide since the corridor behind them led back upstairs, and the one in front of them passed by the opening. There would be no way to explain their presence here.

    His eyes landed back on the beautiful Saint, and an idea came to mind. ¡°Please forgive me.¡±

    ¡°For wha-¡±

    Halligan cut her off with a passionate kiss. Urielle moaned in confusion and surprise as he pressed her against the wall, and he allowed his hands to run along her body. Halligan felt Urielle claw at his arms and shoulders. He pulled away so she could take a breath, but he kissed her again before she could say anything. Guilt gnawed at him, but he was thankful that Urielle seemed to understand since she was pulling him into a tighter embrace.

    ¡°Oy, you two can¡¯t be here!¡± Halligan¡¯s left hand clenched into a fist when he heard the Guard. He steeled himself as the Guard approached. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear me? If you two are going to paw at each other then take it to a brothel.¡±

    The Guard violently pulled Halligan¡¯s shoulder, and he used the movement to punch the Guard in the face. Before the Guard could shout, Halligan pulled him into a headlock and tightened his grip around the neck. The Guard groaned as he struggled against Halligan¡¯s grasped and slammed the young man against the wall. Through sheer will, the Guard started prying Halligan¡¯s arms away. Urielle stared in horror as the Guard took a deep breath, and without thinking she ran up and kicked him hard between the legs. The Guard violently released his breath, and his strength vanished allowing Halligan to tighten his hold again. The Guard eventually ceased his struggle and went limp in Halligan¡¯s grasp.

    ¡°Thanks.¡± Halligan panted as he gently laid the Guard down and stripped him of his weapon.

    ¡°Of course.¡± Urielle replied, twirling her hair. ¡°About that kiss?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it was the only thing that came to mind.¡±

    ¡°You have nothing to apologize for. It was a brilliant idea, truth be told.¡± She turned away running a finger along her lips.

    ¡°We¡¯d best hurry.¡± Halligan crept back to the doorway. ¡°There¡¯s two guards left. If I rush them, then I may be able to dispatch them quickly.¡±

    ¡°I can help.¡± Urielle placed her hands on his back. Divine mana infused itself into Halligan¡¯s body. ¡°You¡¯ve been blessed with Graceful Aura.¡± He gave her a thankful smile before sprinting into the room.

    The Guards stared at him in shock as Halligan charged into the room. Both went for their swords, but Halligan was faster. With a single strike, Halligan¡¯s blade slid across the neck of the first guard, but the second was able to block his next attack. Halligan cursed under his breath as the second guard stepped back. I need to finish this quick! If only I could slip past his guard. An image of Sir Kogna came to mind which brought a smile to his lips.

    The guard inhaled, ready to call for help, but Halligan stabbed towards his face. The Guard tried blocking the attack, but Halligan swung the blade downward and around. With a quick thrust, Halligan¡¯s blade pierced through the Guard¡¯s neck. The Guard fell to the ground as blood bubbled from the hole in his throat.

    ¡°It¡¯s clear.¡± Halligan sighed as he wiped the sweat from his brow. He leaned down and procured a set of keys around the guards belt.

    ¡°Quick, we need to free them!¡±

    Halligan went around unlocking the chains on all the slaves. The levians cried happily as they took his hands, and a few of the women kissed his cheek. The zymarrians on the other hand scowled deeply at him.

    ¡°We need to find that sewer gate.¡± Urielle smiled as the freed slaves gathered close. ¡°Then we can get them back to the cathedral.¡±

    Halligan peeked around the doorway and gestured for them to follow. ¡°I think I remember where it is.¡±

    ¡°Who says we want to be freed?¡±

    Urielle simply eyed the zymarrians in confusion as they pulled away. The hateful glares made them look like snakes ready to strike.

    ¡°You¡¯re human, it¡¯s your right to be free.¡± She replied. She couldn¡¯t understand why they were acting this way.

    ¡°What good is being free if we have to struggle to survive.¡± The muscular zymarrian man snapped. ¡°I¡¯d rather have a comfortable life serving a noble than barely survive each day.¡±

    ¡°Agreed,¡± another zymarrian woman said, ¡°Besides, there¡¯s worse ways to live than serving a wealthy man food or sharing his bed.¡±

    ¡°But-¡±

    ¡°Lady Urielle, we don¡¯t have time.¡± Halligan¡¯s words rushed out. ¡°The guards will be returning soon.¡±

    Urielle tightly gripped the front of her dress. ¡°Everyone who wants to be free needs to come with us. Those that don¡¯t, can stay here.¡± The slaves separated into two groups with those wishing to flee approaching the door. ¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡±

    Halligan looked over everyone and with a small smile, he took the lead down the hall. Their footsteps echoed through the curved corridor. It didn¡¯t take long for them to reach the metal door to the sewers, and it opened with a loud shriek.

    Halligan ushered everyone inside. ¡°Quickly everyone!¡±

    Urielle stopped by his side, staring into the dark with a worried gaze. ¡°Do you think it¡¯ll be safe?¡±

    ¡°We won¡¯t be down there long.¡± Halligan said with a reassuring smile. ¡°We simply need to find the next gate. After that, we can take them to the cathedral.¡± The tension in Urielle¡¯s shoulders lessened at his smile and she followed him closely into the darkness.

    <hr>

    ¡°Do you think they made it?¡± Taela lovingly held onto Baron¡¯s arm as they ascended the stairs.

    ¡°We¡¯ll know shortly.¡± Baron chuckled as he rubbed his cheek. ¡°Did you have to slap me that hard?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re one to talk.¡± Taela huffed as she massaged her left breast. Red fingermarks were still visible on her skin. ¡°You¡¯re getting punished we get home.¡± She smiled seductively at him.

    Baron snickered at her, and he knocked on the ornate wooden door. The voluptuous Mina opened the door. Even though he couldn¡¯t see her lovely face, he still could admire her beautiful form.

    ¡°There seems to be a commotion.¡± Reviled¡¯s grinding voice drew him out of his leering. ¡°What happened?¡±

    Baron tried finding the words, but all he could do was loosen his tie. It felt too much like a rope around his neck.

    ¡°The Saint and Sir Hero found out about the auction.¡± Taela said, placing a comforting hand on his arm. ¡°They came to us wanting assistance to free the slaves.¡±

    ¡°Is that so,¡± Reviled said staring down at the field. Baron released a sigh of relief when a muscular zymarrian man was brought out. ¡°It seems they weren¡¯t able to convince all the slaves to escape.¡±

    ¡°How did they get out undetected?¡± Meridith said, turning to Baron. He could feel her stern gaze from beneath her mask.

    ¡°The sewers.¡± Reviled cut Baron off. ¡°They¡¯re escaping through the sewers.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s correct master.¡± Baron said. ¡°Seeing as how they came to us, I thought it would be better to remain in their good graces.¡±

    The faint shouts from the bidders were the only thing filled the air. Sweat started pouring down Baron¡¯s back for each moment the monster was quiet.

    ¡°Excellent call.¡± Baron¡¯s heart stopped throbbing in his ears. ¡°Inform Khasimir that we¡¯ll compensate him for the slaves that escaped.¡±

    ¡°Of course, sir.¡± Baron chuckled nervously.

    Reviled gingerly stroked Oria¡¯s hair making her purr softly. ¡°Pay the Patron a visit tomorrow Oria. Let him know we are displeased with this outcome.¡±

    ¡°As you wish master.¡± Oria vicious chuckle made Baron to feel pity towards the old man.

 Dancing in the Palm

    Priests hastily shuffled through the sanctuary dispensing blankets, water, and food. The eleven slaves sat on the pews with tears streaming down their cheeks. Urielle stood off to the side and wiped the exhaustion from her eyes. A smile gently graced her lips as the early morning sun illuminated the room in a rainbow of colors thanks to the stained-glass windows. A blanket draped around her shoulders, and she pulled it tightly to cover herself up.

    ¡°Thanks.¡± She smiled at Halligan warmly.

    Halligan smiled back as he leaned against the column. ¡°I¡¯m glad we were able to save them, but I would have preferred to arrest the slavers as well.¡±

    ¡°I agree, but we must look on the bright side.¡± Urielle whispered. ¡°We can investigate the King of Jericho after we destroy Reviled Legion.¡±

    ¡°Has Emir found anything else from the schematics?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Would you like to visit him with me?¡± She was thankful that the red light covered her flushed face.

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    ¡°What is the meaning of this?¡± Patron Waldren¡¯s voice echoed through the sanctuary. He eyes burned with rage, and they trained onto Urielle. He stormed up to her. ¡°What have you done?¡±

    ¡°I investigated the auction and brought you proof.¡± Urielle replied. Her own eyes burned with righteous anger. ¡°Had you chosen to investigate the auction instead of ignoring Sir Halligan¡¯s claims, then we could have arrested the slavers along with freeing the slaves.¡± Her words made everyone stop and stare at them.

    Sweat started pouring from Waldren¡¯s forehead. ¡°I may have been slow to act, but that¡¯s because I wanted to be cautious.¡± He snapped. ¡°Your rashness will make it more difficult to find these criminals in the future.¡±

    ¡°Then why not bring in Lord Triemiere?¡± Halligan growled.

    ¡°Lord Triemiere has been given a-¡±

    ¡°Then take it away!¡± Urielle spat. ¡°As the Patron of Jericho, you have every right to deny his Noble Pardon. Why won¡¯t you?¡±

    ¡°Because¡­ actions have-¡±

    ¡°Patron Waldren, there¡¯s someone here to see you.¡± A priest nervously approached.

    ¡°Now is not the time¡­¡± He snapped, but his eyes widened in horror at the pair standing behind the priest.

    The lithe woman in leather pants stood patiently with a wolfish smile on her lips as she played with her blonde hair. Her black vest sat open, exposing her short brown top and exposed midriff. Behind the woman, stood a young girl in a frilly dress with bows decorating her hair. She looked uncomfortable to be here, and the Patron¡¯s eyes lingered on the girl.

    ¡°How may I be of service?¡± He said, wiping away his sweat furiously.

    ¡°I¡¯m here on behalf of my master.¡± The woman said calmly, but her eyes gleamed with malicious delight. ¡°May I speak with you privately Patron?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Waldren chuckled nervously. ¡°This way, please.¡± The blonde woman quickly ogled Halligan with a flirtatious wink before following the Patron.

    ¡°Do you know her?¡± Urielle said with a sneer.

    ¡°Never met her before,¡± Halligan replied, ¡°Since I¡¯m here, do you want to check in with Emir?¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡± Urielle¡¯s scowl quickly turned to a bright smile.

    The cathedral felt strangely empty since most of the priests were tending to the slaves, but a few were performing their morning chores. Exhaustion weighed heavily on Halligan¡¯s eyes, and he rubbed at them to clear his vision. The stench from the sewers still lingered on his clothes. The thought of a warm bath and soft bed nagged at the back of his mind, and he was certain that Lady Urielle felt the same way. However, despite the dark circles around her eyes, her smile radiated genuine joy.

    The double doors to the cathedral¡¯s library stood ajar, and they both quietly stepped inside. The cathedral library wasn¡¯t anything like the one in the castle. The bookshelves at the back were ornately carved with gilded edges, and they reached all the way to the ceiling. Golden plaques with numbers carved into them were nailed to the rows whereas the ones in the castle had markings carved into shelves. Ancient scroll cases lined the upper shelves while freshly minted books sat closer to the floor.

    As they passed the librarian¡¯s desk and deeper into the library, they found Emir standing over a table. Books were stacked next to him as he stared intently at the sheets laid neatly over the table¡¯s surface. A couch with rumpled cushions sat behind him with a blanket tossed over the back.

    ¡°Have you learned anything, Sir Emir?¡± Urielle whispered.

    ¡°I have, and it deeply worries me.¡± Emir rubbed his eyes before looking at them. His gaze lingered on the Saint, and a small smile came to his lips. ¡°Looks like you enjoyed yourself last night.¡±

    ¡°I had to wear this.¡± Urielle blushed deeply as she covered herself. ¡°We were trying to infiltrate a slave auction last night.¡±

    Emir¡¯s smile quickly faded. ¡°Virtues, why weren¡¯t we dispatched?¡±

    ¡°Patron Waldren wanted proof that the auction was real,¡± Urielle said harshly, ¡°Thankfully, we were able to free a number of the slaves, but the slavers were allowed to go free.¡±

    ¡°But why wasn¡¯t I sent to investigate?¡± Emir punched the table. ¡°As a paladin of Yaniel, it¡¯s my duty to investigate any crimes against the Church.¡± He ran a hand through his hair as he looked at them in frustration. ¡°The Patron¡¯s actions are making me question his dedication to the Church¡¯s doctrine.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m in agreement with you, but right now we have more important issues to tend to.¡± Urielle said, turning to the papers laid out before them. ¡°Have you found anything that can help us against the monster.¡±A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    ¡°I believe so.¡± Fear shined in his eyes. ¡°But it also makes me concerned.¡±

    ¡°Why is that?¡± Halligan leaned over, looking confused at the blueprints.

    ¡°Because there is no possible way this was designed by mortal men.¡± Emir set a sheet in front of them.

    The sheet depicted a strange device. It was a orb suspended in a decahedral cage by multiple spikes. Runes were scribbled on the metal bands of the cage with a large tube connected to the top. At the top of the page read Phylactery Core.

    ¡°What is this?¡± Halligan scratched his head while rotating the sheet around.

    ¡°I know that a phylactery is a vessel that lich¡¯s use to house their souls.¡± Urielle gasped in horror. ¡°Is that what it is, a lich with a metal body?¡±

    ¡°Something worse,¡± Emir replied. He slid another paper in front of them.

    This one showed Reviled Legion¡¯s upper body. Urielle flinched at the sight of the long, bladed tongue, but the sight of it connected to the core confused her. Wired connected to the core, but they immediately ended.

    ¡°The core acts like a phylactery, but it isn¡¯t a lich¡¯s souls inhabiting it. It¡¯s the souls of its victims.¡± Urielle covered her mouth as she tried holding back her tears. Halligan simply stared dumbstruck at the sheet. ¡°The core itself is enchanted with several spells, one of them being Soul Thief. When it uses its tongue to kill, that spell is activated, and it seals the soul into the core. The souls are what power it, so, the more souls it steals, the more powerful it becomes.¡±

    Halligan went pale at the news. ¡°You¡¯re telling me, Elizar is trapped inside that thing.¡± Emir slowly nodded. ¡°How do we get him out!¡±

    ¡°There is none. According to the blueprints, once a soul is sealed inside, it¡¯s forever trapped.¡±

    ¡°How do we free them?¡± Urielle stuttered as tears ran down her face.

    ¡°We can¡¯t. Destroying the core, destroys the souls.¡± Halligan slammed the table in anger. Emir sighed heavily. ¡°Lady Urielle, it is impossible for a person to have designed this on their own. The level of skill, detail, and knowledge of necromancy is too advanced. This leads me to the conclusion that the goddess Elithis herself designed this thing.¡±

    ¡°Shecoga have mercy on us.¡± Urielle¡¯s voice broke, and she ran her fingers through her hair.

    <hr>

    Oria hummed a joyful tune as she sauntered into the Patron¡¯s office. She admired the man¡¯s taste in d¨¦cor as she sat down in the plush chair in front of his desk. With a satisfied sigh, she kicked her feet up and gestured for the girl to sit in the other seat.

    ¡°May I ask, why you are here?¡± Waldren smiled nervously at her as he sat down.

    ¡°The King is displeased with you, Patron.¡± Oria scolded him with a teasing smile. ¡°After his generous gift, you had the gall to send the Saint, of all people, to his auction last night.¡±

    ¡°That wasn¡¯t me!¡± Waldren snapped, his eyes flashing between her and the child. ¡°Saint Urielle learned about the auction from Sir Halligan, and he found out because of Lord Triemiere.¡±

    ¡°Is that so.¡±

    ¡°Yes, so there is no need for him to threaten me!¡±

    Oria cackled harshly, ¡°A threat, Patron, this isn¡¯t a threat.¡± She smiled, wiping the tears from her eyes. ¡°If it was, then you¡¯d be missing a few priests. No, this is merely a reminder, that¡¯s all.¡± She gently petted the girl¡¯s head.

    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me!¡± Waldren slammed his fists against his desk. ¡°Why else would you bring her here.¡±

    Oria¡¯s feet slammed against the floor. ¡°As I said, it¡¯s a reminder.¡± Her snarling smile sent a shiver through him. ¡°It¡¯d be a shame if everyone found out about your preferences.¡±

    ¡°Why would they take your word over mind?¡± Sweat slowly formed on his forehead.

    ¡°They may not, at first.¡± Her smile widened. ¡°But that¡¯s the thing about rumors. They start off small but can quickly grow out of control. Eventually, everyone will see you as the man who forces himself onto young girls.¡±

    Waldren¡¯s head fell, and he pulled his hair. Slowly, he raised his head. ¡°What do you want from me?¡±

    ¡°Have you heard of Lady Priscilla¡¯s pet project?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°You will provide any aid you can to her cause.¡± Oria sighed contently as the Patron nodded sullenly. ¡°The King has taken a liking to her Grace, and he wants to see her succeed.¡± She pulled out a piece of paper and slid it over to him. ¡°Also, you will authorize the House of Destiny to operate as a place of worship.¡±

    ¡°This is that fate cult, correct?¡± Waldren scanned through the paper. ¡°You want me to recognize this Lady of Fate as a title to one of the Virtues?¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m certain you can find something in your scriptures to support that.¡±

    Waldren¡¯s face went pale as he reread the parchment. ¡°I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡± He scratched his signature onto the paper before handing it back. ¡°Is there anything else?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s that Noble Pardon I heard you mentioning earlier?¡±

    ¡°The Church of the Virtues has been tasked with upholding the law by his Majesty¡¯s decree,¡± he said shakily, ¡°However, his Holiness has seen that some nobles need to bend the rules to tend to their people, so those nobles that have proven themselves worthy have been given pardons. This allows them to engage in activities like slavery without the fear of punishment.¡±

    ¡°How can my master receive such a pardon?¡± Oria¡¯s eyes shined with hunger.

    ¡°He would need to prove his noble lineage as well as provide unwavering support to the Church, and only his Holiness can bestow such an honor.¡±

    Oria¡¯s smile faded. ¡°I see.¡± She rose from her chair, pocketing the note. ¡°That should be all for now, Patron. Do have yourself a wonderful day.¡± She gently gestured for the girl to follow her out.

    As Oria sauntered through the cathedral, she couldn¡¯t help but scoff at the pretentious d¨¦cor. The entire building appeared to have been carved from precious marble that glistened from constant cleaning. It must have cost a fortune to import the stone, since Jericho was surrounded by grasslands. Then there was the furniture made from rich, dark wood with fresh lacquer, and the golden candlesticks and chandeliers. The entire building felt like it belonged to obnoxious nobles than benevolent gods.

    ¡°Is there anything else you need of me, my lady?¡± The girl whimpered as they stepped out of the church.

    ¡°No, you are free to go.¡± Oria fished out a few gold coins and dropped them into the girl¡¯s hands. The poor creature stared in awe at the treasure in her hands. ¡°The King is pleased with your service.¡±

    The girl gave a clumsy curtsy. ¡°It was an honor to serve.¡± She ran down the road clutching to her money tightly.

    Oria watched the girl flee with a small smile before heading towards the lower city. The richly dressed citizens gawked at her simple attire, and she enjoyed the sights of their horrified stares. Of course, the men stared at her in fascination.

    Unlike their prudish women, Oria sauntered through the streets in her fitted leather pants, and her cropped shirt showed off her toned stomach. She was proud at how her heeled boots helped shape her figure which was a small blessing considered the other women in her life. She gave a wink to a group of young men ogling her and laughed at their flushed faces.

    Are you having fun? Oria froze at the sound of Reviled¡¯s voice. She searched around her, and her gaze stopped on a black cat sitting at her feet. It¡¯s tail waved patiently as it stared at her.

    ¡°I am.¡± Oria smiled, trying to hide her shock. ¡°Is that a new familiar?¡±

    Our familiars can take on any form we desire. Reviled chuckled at her surprise. The cat jumped onto her shoulder and snuggled against her neck. How did it go?

    ¡°It went well. Sending the girl with me was a smart decision.¡± Oria whispered. She didn¡¯t want anyone to see her talking to a cat. ¡°The Patron will support Lady Priscilla and authorized Eirgnon¡¯s House of Destiny.¡±

    What about the Saint and Hero?

    ¡°He claims that he didn¡¯t send them, but rather, they heard about the auction from a noble in the castle. A lord from Triemiere apparently.¡±

    Meridith is heading to the castle to speak with our Princess. We¡¯ll have her learn what she can about this lord. The cat¡¯s tail gently brushed Oria¡¯s jaw, and the cat licked her cheek. We are pleased with your report. Why not take the day off and enjoy yourself?

    ¡°Well, there is a wonderful shop here I want to check out.¡± Oria flashed him a sultry smile. ¡°Perhaps I could get your opinion on a new outfit?¡±

    If you insist. Reviled chuckled into her ear. Oria¡¯s hips swung wildly as she sauntered down the road, but this time, she completely ignored the lecherous stares.

 The Princessâ€™ First Lesson

    The teacup gently clinked against the saucer in Priscilla¡¯s hands. The sunlight warmed the room against the autumn chill, and the colored leaves flew on the breeze. However, Priscilla couldn¡¯t focus on the beauty outside.

    The weight of her work hung at the back of her mind. The countless hours spent pouring over financials, project planning, and population reformation were burned into her eyes. The amount of information she¡¯s gone through has left her mind reeling, and it didn¡¯t help that a particular noble kept bothering her.

    ¡°And so, I told him the reason why our wine is always red is because our peasants keep crushing their hands in the press.¡± Lord Olivar¡¯s stomach shook violently with his laughter. The loud snort he produced assaulted her ears.

    ¡°That sounds terrible.¡± Priscilla replied, not hiding her sneer.

    ¡°It¡¯s their own fault.¡± Olivar scoffed, draining his tea in a single gulp. He held his cup towards his slave, and as she bent over to fill it, his eyes drank in her exposed cleavage. ¡°How hard is it to operate a wine press anyway?¡±

    ¡°Your domain doesn¡¯t use the standard press master.¡± Myraelle replied with a small frown.

    Olivar dismissed her comment with a wave. ¡°Of course not, we are the major producer of wine for Mrytha, and we need presses that can squeeze every last drop out of our grapes.¡± A twisted smile formed on his lips. ¡°Besides, we were told these presses fool proof, but that clearly isn¡¯t the case.¡±

    Hearing the contempt in his voice made Priscilla¡¯s blood burn, but a knock on the door stopped her from speaking. Lana approached the door and spoke to the servant on the other side. Hope warmed her heart as Lana¡¯s words rang pleasantly in her ears.

    ¡°Your Grace, Lady Meridith is here to see you.¡±

    The widest smile appeared on Priscilla¡¯s lips. ¡°If you¡¯ll excuse my Lord Olivar, but I¡¯m needed elsewhere.¡±

    ¡°Surely it can wait!¡± Olivar stammered, stepping towards her.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid it can¡¯t.¡± Priscilla said, quickly stepping away. ¡°It concerns the renovations to the lower city.¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t be serious.¡±

    ¡°I am.¡± Priscilla¡¯s sweet smile contained a trace of her disdain for him. ¡°This is an important individual, and I can¡¯t simply dismiss her. Now, please excuse me.¡±

    She couldn¡¯t get out of that room fast enough, and despite his large size, Olivar followed right behind her. His wheezing grated her nerves as he tried to talk to her, but the thought of having enjoyable company kept her anger in check. Thankfully, Sir Kogna came around the corner, and a slight heat came to her cheeks.

    ¡°Lord Olivar, please, I must attend this meeting.¡± Priscilla sighed, giving Kogna a pleading glance.

    ¡°Tending to the city is beyond you. You should be learning to manage a household, not a city.¡± Olivar¡¯s face was red with anger and exhaustion, but Kogna stepped in his way. Despite being roughly the same size, Kogna seemed to tower over the lord.

    ¡°My Lady has asked you to leave sir.¡± Kogna replied stoically, his hand resting on his sword hilt. Olivar glared at Kogna, his eyes glancing between the sword and the man¡¯s thick chest. With a huff, the large noble stormed away, cursing under his breath.

    ¡°Thank you, sir Kogna.¡± Priscilla sighed in relief.

    ¡°No need, my lady,¡± Kogna said, ¡°I am here to serve.¡±

    The flush on her face expanded at his words as did her smile, and she quickly turned away to avoid any embarrassment. With a deep breath, she stepped into the sitting room.

    Lady Meridith sat on one of the sofa¡¯s, sipping from a steaming cup. Behind her, stood her Amu¡¯Ryjin attendant, her hands clasped over a glossy leather folder. Both women turned to them and respectfully addressed them.

    ¡°Are you alright, my lady?¡± Meridith said, her eyes flashing to Kogna with a stern shine. ¡°It sounded like there was a commotion outside.¡±

    ¡°Simply a pest that wouldn¡¯t leave me alone.¡± Priscilla said politely as she took a seat. ¡°How have things been for you all?¡±

    ¡°We have been doing very well.¡± Meridith smiled warmly, but there was a small twitch beneath her right eye. ¡°Thanks to your involvement, we¡¯ve rebuilt the lower square faster than we expected, and we found artisans to manage our shops.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s excellent news!¡± Priscilla¡¯s smile widened. Her shoulders relaxed at the news. ¡°That helps take a great weight off me.¡± She chuckled nervously. ¡°From all the reports I¡¯ve received, I feared no one would fill the positions, but now, we can truly start rebuilding.¡±

    Meridith¡¯s smile falters. ¡°My lady, you need not bear this burden. Our master will gladly bear the responsibility.¡±

    ¡°No!¡± Priscilla straightened herself. ¡°My father and brother have placed this project in my hands, and I can¡¯t let them down. I won¡¯t let them down.¡± Her shoulders slumped as a pang struck behind her eyes. ¡°I wish I knew how though.¡± Tears shined in her eyes as she looked at Meridith. ¡°How does master Legion do it?¡±

    Meridith sighed, staring worriedly at the girl. ¡°He is not a normal man, my lady. I fear that you¡¯ll lose your way should you follow him.¡±

    ¡°Please, there must be something. I feel like I drowning in sheets of paper, and I see numbers everywhere!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you have clerks to help you?¡±

    A tired sigh escaped her lips. ¡°I¡¯ve tried to recruit staffs for the project, and I even asked my father for help, but none of them have their heart in it.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Meridith sat there nibbling on her lower lip. She nodded, looking to the young noble. ¡°Very well, we can go see master Legion.¡± Her eyes lingered on the girl. ¡°But I fear you won¡¯t care for his methods.¡±

    <hr>

    Priscilla twisted her hands nervously as the carriage moved through the streets. She was amazed at how clean the streets of the lower city were now. Of course, it was the main road, but it was a step in the right direction. As the carriage headed into the main square, she marveled at how different it looked.

    The rickety stalls were replaced with newly made ones. The condemned buildings were torn down, leaving only the stone foundations with the skeletal supports for new buildings. Near the tavern stood a large two-storied building with a forge on one side and a carpenter¡¯s shack on the other.

    ¡°Do you like our new store.¡± Meridith chuckled over her shoulder. ¡°We found the staff to operate it a few days ago. They were the ones to make these new stalls.¡±

    ¡°The square looks wonderful. I can¡¯t wait to see it when the buildings are finally finished.¡± Priscilla smiled at her. The carriage rattled to a stop, and they stepped into the tavern.

    The sweet, warmth of freshly baked pastries assaulted her nose, and her stomach growled at the wonderful smell. The beautiful hostess manning the bar curtsied as they approached.

    ¡°Welcome back your grace.¡± Ada gave her a motherly smile. ¡°It is an honor to have you in our humble establishment.¡±

    The pounding of footsteps came from the back. Vaera ran past the bar, through the common room, and embraced Priscilla in a tight hug.

    ¡°Welcome back!¡± The servant girl laughed as the two of them spun around.

    ¡°It¡¯s good to be back.¡± Priscilla held her friend close. The warm embrace helped ease some of her tensions.

    ¡°Vaera, show the young lady some respect!¡± Yula snapped. Vaera pouted, backed away, and curtsied to her.

    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that.¡± Priscilla smirked, pulling Vaera into another tight hug. ¡°We¡¯re friends after all.¡± Yula sighed but nodded in acceptance.

    ¡°To what do we owe the pleasure, my lady?¡± Ada said, gesturing to a table.

    ¡°I¡¯m here to see master Legion.¡±

    Ada¡¯s smile faltered, as did Meridith¡¯s and Mina¡¯s. ¡°Master Legion is occupied at the moment.¡± There was a strange pause in her words. ¡°Why not avail yourself with our services while I go get him ready.¡± She gave Meridith a tight smile. ¡°I¡¯ll need your help, ma¡¯am.¡±

    Fire burned in Meridith¡¯s eyes. ¡°Of course,¡± she said, ¡°I¡¯ll be back for your shortly, your grace.¡± Priscilla gave them a worried look as Vaera dragged her over to the bar.

    <hr>

    Meridith followed Ada to the stairs. ¡°Is it her?¡± She couldn¡¯t keep the snarl from her lips.

    ¡°Yes,¡± Ada replied with matching disgust, ¡°She appeared without notice while you were away. I tried to stop her, but the snake slithered passed me.¡± They stepped into the basement and glared at the zymarrian woman.

    The golden bangles on her wrists and ankles produced the music that fueled her dancing, and sickening sweet scent filled the air. Her loose clothing swirled around her, exposing large portions of her dark, scaly skin. Cynmora spun with seductive grace, and a wicked smile came to her lips when she spotted the women. Their glares hardened as the snake pulled away the few pieces of clothing covering her, and she tossed them aside playfully.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    ¡°Enough of that!¡± Meridith stormed forward.

    ¡°I¡¯m simply entertaining my master.¡± Cynmora¡¯s smile widened at her anger. She grasped her hair and held it above her head, showing off her lustrous body. ¡°No need for such hostility.¡± Meridith could only growl in response.

    ¡°How did your meeting with the Princess go?¡± Meridith turned her dark gaze towards Reviled. He sat in his box scribbling on several pieces of parchment, his eyes never leaving the lecherous snake.

    ¡°Well, she¡¯s here.¡± Meridith snapped venomously, her hands resting on her hips.

    Reviled¡¯s crimson eyes flashed towards her. ¡°What?¡±

    Meridith couldn¡¯t stop the smile from forming. ¡°The Princess is upstairs. Should I send her away since you¡¯re being¡­ entertained?¡± She wanted to laugh as Cynmora glanced between them in confusion.

    Silence filled the room.

    ¡°No.¡± Reviled pointed towards the cloak hanging next to the sewer door. ¡°Bring me my cloak.¡± Meridith nodded, ready to fetch it, but Cynmora was faster. The zymarrian jumped onto the box and enveloped the monster with the cloak as she hugged him.

    ¡°Here you are master.¡± She said seductively, staring at Meridith.

    Meridith sneered at Cynmora¡¯s taunt and threw her clothes onto the box. ¡°Get dressed snake. We don¡¯t need to offend our guest.¡±

    The zymarrian woman wrapped her arms and legs around the monster. ¡°This should be enough covering.¡± She peeked over Reviled¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Besides, someone needs to hold the master¡¯s shawl together.¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡± Reviled¡¯s stern tone hushed both women. ¡°Cynmora, put on your clothing. We don¡¯t need to offend our Princess.¡± Meridith smiled as the snake shrank behind their master. The space around Reviled¡¯s head shimmered as his illusionary face appeared. ¡°Ada, we¡¯re ready to receive her Grace.¡± Ada curtsied before turning away.

    Cynmora sidled closer as she finished adjusting her clothing. ¡°Who¡¯s this handsome man?¡± She smirked, reaching to touch Reviled¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Do not touch!¡± Cynmora snapped her hand back, her eyes wide with fear. ¡°You¡¯ll break the illusion.¡± Reviled shifted, staring at the door. ¡°Stay behind me and to my left and don¡¯t speak unless I tell you.¡±

    ¡°Yes master.¡± Seeing the zymarrian woman be reprimanded help brought a smile to Meridith¡¯s lips.

    <hr>

    Priscilla took several deep breaths to calm herself as she followed Ada and Mina downstairs. Despite the numerous times she had spoken with master Legion, she couldn¡¯t help but be nervous. There was something unnatural about the man, but after seeing how much the slums had changed, it was clear that he was someone with great insight. As the door to the basement opened, Priscilla took one last breath as she stood straight.

    She was assaulted with a sudden sweet smell that reminded her of honey and flowers, but she steeled herself with a small cough. The lanterns on the wall bathed the room in warm light, but there were still enough shadows clinging to the corners to give it an air of secrecy. It was a room befitting the man smiling at her.

    Master Legion bowed deeply. ¡°It is an honor to be in your presence, your Grace.¡± His deep voice brought out the goosebumps on her arms. ¡°How have you been?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve been well.¡± Priscilla tried keeping her smile from breaking as she kneeled on the plush pillow. Not having a proper seat to sit in was another reason why meeting the man threw her off. Her eyes suddenly fell to the woman sitting behind him.

    This wasn¡¯t her first time seeing a zymarrian, but it was due to her attire that made her stand out. The two rose colored pieces of silk covering her chest along with the long flowing sleeves and golden bangles accentuated her exotic beauty. The shadows of the box were the only thing covering her exposed legs, but occasionally the light would reflect off the golden rings around her ankles. Another sensual beauty in this man¡¯s growing collection.

    ¡°Does her attire offend you?¡± Master Legion¡¯s voice interrupted her thoughts.

    ¡°No,¡± She said, silently scolding herself when she stuttered. ¡°I was simply admiring her beauty is all.¡±

    ¡°Cynmora is definitely a rare beauty.¡± The master chuckled as the zymarrian straightened in pride at the compliment. The other women seemed oddly dismissive though. ¡°So, how may we be of service, your Grace?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve come seeking advice.¡± Priscilla quickly glanced over to Meridith, and she nodded encouragingly. ¡°I¡¯ve been having trouble overseeing our project. I¡¯m drowning in paperwork with no help, and no matter what I do, it keeps getting worse.¡± A heavy sigh escaped her lips as her shoulders slumped. ¡°I fear that it may be too much for me.¡±

    ¡°Do you not have attendants and scribes to help you?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve tried, but most find some reason to avoid helping, and the ones that do aren¡¯t giving their all.¡± She clutched tightly at her skirt as her stomach tightened.

    She was aware of the rumors. That the project was a waste of resources. That her father had no real faith in the project. That she should focus more on her other studies and learn to be a wife. The contempt of those in the castle stirred something inside her, and she bit her lip as her vision started blurring.

    ¡°It sounds as if your staff doesn¡¯t respect your authority.¡± A low growl escaped master Legion¡¯s lips. ¡°It seems you are in need of a lesson on how to use it.¡±

    His words struck her pride. ¡°I know how to order staff around.¡±

    ¡°Authority is much more than simply ordering people around.¡± Legion¡¯s sharp laugh stirred her ire. ¡°Authority is the power of respect.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±

    ¡°Ada, our meeting with her grace is over. See her out.¡±

    ¡°But I still need your help!¡± Priscilla cried as Ada headed towards the door.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry my lady, but the master has concluded this meeting.¡± Ada said with a pitiful smile.

    ¡°No, I still need to talk to him.¡± Tears streamed down her face as she looked for help. Mina kept her gaze to the floor, Cynmora sat there uninterested, and Meridith merely gazed sympathetically at her. Priscilla¡¯s stomach twisted in knots when she realized none of them were going to help her.

    A hand gingerly touched her shoulder. ¡°Come, my lady.¡± She stared mortified as Lana stood over her. It was too much, and all she could do was cry into her hands.

    ¡°Do you understand now.¡± Priscilla wiped the tears only for more to blur her eyes. ¡°Authority can bend others to your will through words alone. To supplant loyalties, establish hierarchies, and even change the opinions of others.¡± A comforting arm wrapped around her shoulders as someone dabbed the tears from her face. ¡°Forgive us child, but we felt it was best to explain through example.¡±

    Her tears finally stopped, but it felt like a greater weight was on her shoulders. The gravity of the situation sunk into her. She was the daughter of the Duke. Hundreds of servants obeyed her words, yet he had easily dismissed her like the child she was.

    ¡°I have no authority.¡± Priscilla¡¯s voice came out hollow and broken.

    ¡°Correct.¡±

    ¡°How do I acquire it?¡±

    ¡°Through respect,¡± Legion said, ¡°The more others respect you, the more authority you have.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m the Duke¡¯s daughter. How do I acquire more respect?¡±

    ¡°Through your actions. For example, punishing them when they do wrong.¡± He gazed over his shoulder at the zymarrian. ¡°Cynmora, you were supposed to be training with Taela today, and yet you decided to come here instead.¡±

    Cynmora started screaming in pain, grasping at her lower back. As the zymarrian writhed in pain, she twisted in a way that revealed the glowing slave crest on her back. When it finally stopped glowing, it left the poor woman gasping from breath. A light snicker came from Meridith as she watched Cynmora struggle back into position.

    Master Legion glared at his attendant. ¡°Her punishment is not for your amusement.¡± Meridith howled in pain as she clutched at her stomach. The other two women at his side glanced away. Finally, Meridith stopped screaming, but she remained on the floor. ¡°Punishing your subordinates when they fail helps establish order. There is nothing worse than a disrespectful servant.¡± Slowly, the two women sat up, but the pain was still evident on their face.

    ¡°You enslaved them?¡± Priscilla whispered, staring at both women.

    ¡°Yes, it is the fastest way to establish order,¡± Master Legion replied, ¡°Another way to establish respect is by rewarding excellent behavior. Ada, Mina, for behaving well, you shall receive a bonus on your next stipend.¡±

    ¡°Thank you master.¡± Both women said warmly.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t, my lady.¡± Lana whispered into her ear.

    ¡°Slaver is wrong!¡± Priscilla turned to Lana, but the fire within her faded when she saw the fear in her handmaid¡¯s eyes.

    ¡°Child.¡± Priscilla found herself silenced by his stern voice. ¡°You are a noble, and yet before me you are nothing more than a little girl. Even your own handmaid has fallen sway to my authority.¡±

    She looked around at the women. Both Meridith and Cynmora regained their positions and smiled warmly at her. When their eyes would glance at their master, a gleam of awe and fear filled them. It was even apparent in both Mina and Ada. Oddly enough, it reminded her of how some servants would look at her father.

    Priscilla bowed deeply. ¡°Thank you for this lesson.¡± She rose with a polite with a grateful smile. ¡°You have shown me the error of my ways. I hope you will continue to be of service to me.¡±

    ¡°Of course, child.¡±

    <hr>

    The weight of the lesson that Master Legion gave still weighed heavily at the back of Priscilla¡¯s mind as she walked down the familiar halls. Lana silently followed behind, clearly still shaken from the incident. Her warm brown eye no longer held their mischievous shine. Sir Kogna followed next to Lana, his eyes ever vigilant. The sky outside was starting to turn shades of pink as she approached her father¡¯s office. With a soft knock, she waited for her father¡¯s approval.

    ¡°Enter.¡± Priscilla smoothed out her dress as she stepped inside. Her father sat at his desk, sipping on a glass of wine, but he smiled brightly at her as she entered. ¡°Is there something you need sweetheart?¡±

    ¡°Father, I have a question about the lower city project.¡± Her father sat up straight with concern in her eyes. ¡°Is it a project you¡¯re truly committed to?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I am,¡± The Duke said, ¡°Our people¡¯s wellbeing means everything to me, and from the reports I¡¯m receiving from Cromwell, it looks to be going in the right direction.¡±

    The tension gripping her heart eased. ¡°It is, master Legion is making great strides, but I fear our commitment isn¡¯t matching his own.¡± She took a deep breath as she stared into her father¡¯s eyes. ¡°The castle staff has shown nothing but contempt for this project, and I¡¯m afraid they don¡¯t have the same commitment as we do.¡±

    ¡°Is that so.¡± Her father tapped his desk. He quickly grabbed a small parchment, quickly wrote on it, and stamped his seal in wax. ¡°This should change their minds.¡± He stepped away from his desk to hand her the paper.

    Priscilla quickly scanned the parchment and gave her father a warm smile. ¡°Thank you, father.¡± She wiped the tears forming in her eyes. ¡°I greatly needed this.¡±

    Her father tightly hugged her. ¡°Forgive me Priscilla. I¡¯ve been doing this for so long that I didn¡¯t realize you were suffering.¡± He gently kissed her forehead with a warm smile. ¡°Now go with my blessing and authority.¡±

    Her father¡¯s words greatly lightened her worries, and she found her steps light as she stepped out of the office. With the writ firmly in hand, Priscilla stormed through the castle with a sense of purpose. However, it was dashed when she entered the scribes offices.

    ¡°Lady Priscilla, how may I be of service?¡± The Head scribe said with an amused smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m looking for the master Hane and Balthazaar. They were going over some documents concerning the lower city renovations.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ve been busy all morning, my lady.¡± The Head Scribe shrugged. ¡°But I¡¯m certain they¡¯ll get you the documents at some point.¡±

    Priscilla took a deep breath. ¡°That is unacceptable!¡± She replied with a stern gaze. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting on those documents for over a week. If master Hane and Balthazaar don¡¯t get me those documents by tomorrow morning, then I¡¯ll be forced to terminate their services.¡±

    The Head Scribe chuckled at her. ¡°I¡¯m certain they won¡¯t mind much.¡±

    ¡°I fear you misunderstand.¡± Priscilla smiled cruelly as she held out the writ. ¡°If they don¡¯t get me those documents tomorrow, then they¡¯re fired.¡± Her voice carried throughout the room.

    ¡°I beg your pardon!¡±

    ¡°The Duke has bestowed me with a Writ of Authority.¡± A buzz ran through her as the scribes all turned to her. ¡°He is most displeased that his staff isn¡¯t committed to this project, so he¡¯s given me the authority to change that. I need to see master Hane and Balthazaar now!¡±

    Two scribes scurried up from their desks. ¡°You called, my lady.¡± They both smiled nervously at her.

    ¡°Those documents on the renovations, where are they?¡±

    ¡°We¡­ haven¡¯t gotten to them yet, my lady?¡±

    ¡°Then I suggest you start because I¡¯m expecting them in the morning. If I don¡¯t have them, then I¡¯ll have Sir Kogna escort you out. Am I clear?¡± Both scribes nodded vigorously, their eyes wide. ¡°Good. Now is mistress Sasha here?¡±

    ¡°Yes, my lady!¡± Another scribe jumped from her desk.

    ¡°I¡¯m grateful for you getting me those financial reports to me in a timely manner.¡± She smiled warmly at the thin woman which caused her to blush. ¡°You can expect a bonus when you next get paid.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, my lady!¡±

    Priscilla¡¯s smile faded when she noticed the two scribes staring at her dumbfounded. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be working on those documents?¡± Her smile returned when the two men ran away. ¡°I expect those three to be working solely on the renovation project.¡± She turned, storming out of the room.

    ¡°Of course, my lady.¡± She smirked at the Head Scribe¡¯s stutter.

 Zharâ€™resh

    Golden sunlight bathed the room in a comforting warmth as the birds outside sang their lovely tunes. The cheerful sounds from the citizens flitted through the open windows. The soldiers went about their training with steadfast resolve. To everyone today was a good day, but not to Olivar.

    He wiped at the sweat forming along his chin, his gaze burrowing into the door. His tea had long gone cold as did the pastries on the table in front of him. Today was not a good day since Lady Priscilla had ignored his invitation again. The Duke¡¯s daughter had vehemently rejected every of his invitations for the past week. Ever since that meeting, she wasn¡¯t the same.

    The once prim and dainty Priscilla now marched through the halls with an imperial air. Her steps are firm and precise. Head held high as she went about her way, and she no longer tried hiding her disgust towards him. The cup in his hands shook violently as he remembered her words. I have no time to waste on a loathsome and degenerate cock such as you. If you need the company of a woman then call upon your attendant, for I will no longer humor you.

    The cup cracked in his hand. ¡°How dare she say that to me!¡± his teeth cracked against each other. A knock echoed from the door. ¡°Enter.¡± His tension eased a bit when Myra stepped into the room. ¡°What did you find out?¡±

    ¡°Not much I¡¯m afraid.¡± Myraelle stopped next to the couch. Olivar slapped his shoulders, and she quickly hurried behind him, kneading her fingers into his flesh. ¡°No one has ever seen this benefactor save for Lady Priscilla herself, and her handmaid.¡±

    Olivar released a slight groan as her thumbs dug into his neck. ¡°Do we at least have a name for this individual?¡±

    ¡°Everyone knows him as master Legion.¡± She ran her thumbs along his neck causing him to shiver in delight.

    ¡°Master Legion, that sounds familiar.¡± Olivar tried remembering, but Myra¡¯s massage was too distracting. ¡°What else did you find?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s only been active in the city for a year, but he¡¯s been a staunch supporter of the Duke. He¡¯s made several large donations to the duchy¡¯s coffers.¡± She hummed in thought for a moment. ¡°Not to mention, Lady Priscilla¡¯s knight used to be in his employ.¡±

    ¡°The amu¡¯ryjin?¡±

    ¡°Also, the renovation project was spearheaded by this master Legion, not the Duke.¡±

    Olivar tightly grabbed her hands. ¡°What?¡±

    Myra groaned in pain. ¡°Apparently, he owns a tavern in the lower city. He wants to renovate the area to increase his business.¡± Olivar released his grip and paced around angrily.

    ¡°Have a carriage prepared.¡± He growled. ¡°I want to visit this tavern.¡±

    <hr>

    By the time the carriage entered the slums, the sun slowly faded into the west. Olivar huffed as he watched the citizens move about the streets, their worn, dirty clothes not even fit for rags. However, the main street was clean which allowed the carriage to move freely into the square. He stared in contempt as the commoners haggled their cheap wares from freshly painted stalls as the carriage pulled up to the front of a well-kept tavern. He stepped out and took the building in with a stern eye. A loud ruckus came from within the building, nearly drowning out the joyful melody. As soon as Myra stepped out of the carriage, he stormed into the building and was immediately assaulted by the smell.

    The hall was filled with large, disgusting ruffians in soiled armor. Their weapons used weapons hung on racks by the door to prevent fights from getting out of hand. A few guards sat amongst them which lessened his view of the Duke¡¯s forces.

    Most of the adventurers gathered around the stage. They danced and whooped while the ones sitting at the tables slammed their mugs in time with the jaunty tune. A few of the adventurers by the door eyed Olivar in contempt, but they kept their words to themselves.

    He started moving towards the bar. ¡°So, this is how the lesser people enjoy themselves.¡± He huffed derisively but was cut off as a lascivious barmaid danced between the groups to deliver fresh tankards to the guests. The barmaid gave him a warm smile as she went back to work. ¡°Perhaps there is some appeal to this place.¡± Olivar suddenly wished he had brought guards with him.

    All the tables were littered with dirtied dishes and food crumbs. When he went to approach an empty table, one of the adventurers would rush to sit down and glare at him menacingly. Eventually he was forced towards the full bar at the back of the tavern. Thankfully, the bar maiden was pleasing to look at.

    The golden-haired temptress leaned across the bar, giving him a generous view down her dress. ¡°Welcome to the Crimson Maiden, my lord.¡± Her eyes sparkled with the same warmth as her smile. ¡°Is there anything I can get you?¡±

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t have any tables available, would you?¡± Olivar replied, leaning close to her.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid no, my lord.¡± Her eyes lingered on the stage and the crowd around it. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ve come at the worst time.¡±

    ¡°And why is that?¡±

    The barmaid pulled out a bottle of wine, uncorked it, and slid it towards him with teasing smirk. Olivar picked up the bottle, ready to throw it back, but stared in awe at the quality vintage. The barmaid¡¯s smirk grew as she slid two glasses over.

    ¡°You¡¯ll see soon enough, my lord.¡± Before he could say anything, a loud commotion came from the stage.

    ¡°Quiet down everyone and take your seats! Lady Mina is about to perform an original song!¡± The crowd roared in delight as they ran back to their seats. Olivar stared in stunned silence as the stage became visible.

    A young boy struck a beaten pot with a spoon trying to calm everyone, but it was the beauty sitting behind him that everyone was focused on. Her long raven black hair was set in an elaborate bun with rich, ornate pins holding it in place. Her luxurious robes teased her gorgeous figure in a way that reminded him of nobility. She radiated purity and innocence, and that made Olivar suddenly desire her.

    ¡°I love you, Mina!¡± A voice broke from the crowd. Olivar¡¯s heart nearly stopped at the embarrassed smile she gave everyone.

    ¡°What¡¯s the song?¡± Another voice called out.

    ¡°It¡¯s a ballad.¡± Mina replied, failing at hiding her blushed face. ¡°It¡¯s called the Monstrous Savior.¡± Hushed, confused whispers filled the room.

    Mina slowly stood and walked to the edge of the stage. She took several deep breaths then started singing. As Triemiere was on the west coast, Olivar was familiar with a few amu¡¯ryjin songs, but hearing the lyrics in his own language was something he wasn¡¯t prepared for.

    Great sadness and despair took over him as Mina sang the opening. The tale of a young woman stolen from her home and forced into slavery. Terrible shame stole the warmth from the room as the deeds escaped Mina¡¯s lips. A few of the adventurers were already in tears as Mina finished the first verse, then the despair turned to terrible fear.

    Goosebumps formed on his arms as Mina sang about a monster with eyes like blood lurking within the depths. It wasn¡¯t simply him, everyone was on edge, especially the barmaids. Olivar had to take a deep drink to calm himself as the second verse ended, but it was the third verse that changed everything.

    A sudden warmth filled his stomach, and he felt incredibly light. Mina¡¯s singing expressed great joy despite the subject being under the authority of a terrible monster. The feeling intensified as Mina continued the third verse, and the edges of fear gave way to admiration. Tears were flowing freely from the adventurers as well as Myra beside him. His own eyes were becoming misty, but he couldn¡¯t understand why. Finally, the song ended, and silence filled the tavern. Then everyone erupted into applause.

    ¡°That was beautiful, Mina!¡±

    ¡°Marry me!¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s too good for you!¡±

    Mina waved at everyone as she made her way over to the bar. ¡°Another wonderful performance.¡± The barmaid slid a glass of water to her.

    ¡°Thank you, Ada.¡±

    ¡°Truly spectacular my dear.¡± Olivar slid next to the minstrel with a large smile. ¡°I¡¯ve heard amu¡¯ryjin music before, but your song was the best out of all of them.¡±

    Mina¡¯s smile wavered. ¡°Thank you, my lord.¡±

    Olivar¡¯s smile widened as he let his gaze wander. She was a beautiful woman even if she was of short stature. Mina squirmed under his intense gaze which made her even more desirable.

    ¡°What services do you have here?¡± He asked as another barmaid walked past.

    ¡°Well, we serve food and drink, and we do have rooms should you wish for more personal services.¡± Ada replied, trying to draw his attention away from Mina.Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

    Olivar¡¯s smile widened. ¡°How much for mistress Mina¡¯s time?¡±

    Ada¡¯s smile faded as Mina released a small squeak. ¡°Lady Mina doesn¡¯t provide those services.¡± Ada said, placing a comforting hand on Mina¡¯s.

    Olivar tossed his purse onto the counter, gold coins spilling out. ¡°Surely the master of this tavern wouldn¡¯t turn this down.¡± The gold shined brightly in the lantern light.

    ¡°That is a generous sum.¡± Ada eyes lingered on the coins before glancing at Mina. ¡°But as I said Lady Mina does not perform those services.¡±

    ¡°Is my gold not good enough!¡± Olivar slammed his fist onto the bar causing the ruckus to die down. ¡°I am the son of Viscount Triemiere, or is a nobleman not worthy of the lady¡¯s time?¡± The adventurers around him glared, their knuckles cracking from their tightly clenched fists, but he wasn¡¯t concerned. His hard gaze shifted to Mina. Her eyes shined as she stared at the money. ¡°Well, answer me!¡± Mina simply nodded as she bit her lip and she reached for the coin with trembling hands, but another pair grabbed them first.

    ¡°My lord, you are truly worth Lady Mina¡¯s time.¡± Ada said, sidling next to him. His eyes were instantly drawn to her chest as it shook with each deep breath. She leaned down so that her lips tickled his ear. ¡°But would you truly be satisfied with her? A delicate flower needs proper care and attention. To pluck it before its time would be a terrible mistake, wouldn¡¯t you agree?¡± Olivar took a deep breath as Ada¡¯s hand ran down his chest and stomach. ¡°Why not let me attend to you?¡± Her lips brushed against his cheek in a light kiss. Olivar found it hard to concentrate as one of her hands ran through his hair and the other along his leg.

    ¡°He didn¡¯t ask for you whore.¡± Myra¡¯s harsh tone broke her spell. ¡°If he wants the island girl then he¡¯ll get her.¡±

    Ada drew away which stole Olivar¡¯s breath, but her eyes glowed brilliantly as she stared at Myra. ¡°My lord truly knows how to pick his women.¡± She cooed as she moved towards Myra. She allowed her finger to run along his shoulder as she pulled Myra into her other arm. ¡°Truly lovely indeed.¡± Ada smirked as her right hand ran along Myra¡¯s back and hips. Myra tried to pull away, but Ada kept a tight grip on her waist. ¡°It must wear you out to sate him.¡± Olivar stood there enraptured as the two women pressed against each other, their lips a hair breadth away. ¡°Perhaps, I could be of service.¡± Ada stared deeply into Myra¡¯s eyes as she went in for a kiss. Myra simply stood there stunned.

    ¡°How much for your services?¡± Olivar asked, tugging at his collar.

    Myra gasped as Ada broke the kiss, the two women held each other¡¯s gaze. ¡°Why don¡¯t we head upstairs to discuss it?¡± Ada replied, pulling the two of them away. Olivar lost all thought as the prostitute¡¯s hooded eyes fluttered at him, and he found himself drawn into her touch. With a meaty hand, he grasped her left cheek hard as another hand brushed past his skin to grab Ada¡¯s flesh.

    <hr>

    Mina stared as Ada ascended the stairs. The golden-haired woman gave her a quick wink before disappearing from her sight. Mina gazed down at her violently shaking hands. Tears fell onto her knuckles, and a low sob escaped her lips. She was aware that others were watching her, but she couldn¡¯t hold back the fear and anguish.

    A gentle touch drew her attention, and she stared into the eyes of one of the barmaids. ¡°Don¡¯t worry Lady Mina. Madame Ada knows what she¡¯s doing. Why don¡¯t you go downstairs to rest. We¡¯ll take care of everything.¡±

    Mina gave a small nod in response as she slid away from the bar. The voices from the patrons faded as she descended each step, and the door at the bottom beckoned warmly to her. Her hands tightly gripped the brass knob, its cold touch returning some feeling into her hands, and she stepped inside the cozy basement.

    The basement bar was bathed in the soft, warm light of the golden lanterns, and a faint scent of fruit filled the room. There was no one there as they were all out running errands, and the box that master Reviled sat was also empty. Except it wasn¡¯t.

    Mina glared at the woman lounging on a bed of pillows eating candied fruit from a bowl. Her dark blue hair was pulled back into a ponytail and her golden bangles clacked with every slight movement. For a moment, she thought the woman was naked, but as she approached, she found that the shadows hid the few scraps of clothing she was wearing.

    ¡°What do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Mina snapped.

    ¡°Waiting for the master.¡± Cynmora replied, popping another piece of fruit into her mouth. ¡°It is my day off, and I wanted to spend it with him.¡± There was a rustle of paper, and Mina noticed the book nestled next to her arm.

    ¡°You know how to read?¡±

    ¡°A literate slave is a useful one.¡± Cynmora sighed and cursed in her native tongue. ¡°I was hoping he¡¯d get with the spy.¡±

    Mina approached slowly, trying to catch a glimpse, but the shadows hid the words. ¡°What are you reading?¡±

    ¡°An amateur¡¯s attempt at romance.¡± Cynmora slammed the book closed and tossed it away. Her maroon eyes took Mina in with a soft smile. ¡°What¡¯s wrong little canary?¡±

    ¡°Nothing¡¯s wrong.¡±

    Cynmora slid out of the box and stood over her. A gentle hand brushed against Mina¡¯s cheek, wiping away the tear stains. ¡°Then why were you crying?¡± Mina tried to look away, but the zymarrian kept a firm grip on her cheeks.

    ¡°A patron asked me to service him,¡± Mina whispered, ¡°It brought back bad memories.¡± She flinched as Cynmora leered down at her.

    ¡°I¡¯m not surprised.¡± Cynmora gave her a toothy smile. ¡°You are a very lovely woman.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want¡­ people to look at me like that.¡± Mina pulled away, hugging herself. She quickly glanced at the half-naked woman. ¡°How do you stand it? Those lustful looks people give you.¡±

    ¡°Quite easily.¡± Cynmora¡¯s laugh echoed throughout the room. ¡°I underwent the zhar¡¯resh when I was about the princess¡¯ age.¡±

    ¡°What is that?¡± Mina asked, trying to keep her voice calm. She didn¡¯t want to appear desperate.

    Cynmora glided to the center of the room and clapped her hands over her head. She stamped her right foot, causing her bangles to jingle. ¡°You see little canary; my body is my instrument.¡± She started dancing. Mina was mesmerized at the exotic steps. ¡°The eye is naturally drawn to movement, so I trained my body to move at the slightest of steps.¡± She performed a slight hop, and Mina¡¯s eyes lingered on the zymarrian¡¯s bouncing breast. Then her eyes fell to Cynmora¡¯s gyrating hips. ¡°Are you enjoying my demonstration, little canary?¡±

    Mina tore her eyes away. ¡°Why would I enjoy such a vulgar dance?¡± She snapped. Her face felt incredibly warm.

    ¡°Because we enjoy looking at beautiful things.¡± Cynmora chuckled. ¡°The zhar¡¯resh is designed to accentuate the natural beauty of the human body. After all, a woman ugly of face can still be seductive if she has the right figure.¡±

    ¡°So zhar¡¯resh is a type of training for prostitutes?¡±

    ¡°All prostitutes undergo zhar¡¯resh, but not all who undergo zhar¡¯resh are prostitutes.¡± Cynmora replied, folding her arms. ¡°A painter must understand what is beautiful if he wishes to create works of art.¡± Mina scowled as the snake posed seductively. ¡°There is nothing to be ashamed of when you¡¯re truly beautiful.¡±

    Mina mumbled, the words coming out slowly. ¡°Could you teach me this zhar¡¯resh.¡±

    ¡°Are you certain little canary? You may not enjoy my instructions.¡±

    Mina glanced at her with misty eyes. ¡°Please.¡±

    Cynmora slipped next to her and embraced her. ¡°As you wish,¡± she whispered. Her hands slid down to the sash holding Mina¡¯s robes closed. ¡°First, you¡¯ll need to comfortable in your own skin.¡± Mina nodded with a grimace as the sash fell at her feet. She gasped when Cynmora slipped her hand into the gap. ¡°Do you wish for me to stop?¡±

    ¡°No,¡± Mina stuttered, ¡°Keep going.¡± She closed her eyes tightly as the robe fell to the floor. Goosebumps formed along her skin, despite the warmth in the room.

    Warmth tickled Mina¡¯s ear. ¡°I¡¯m envious, little canary. My training would have been easier if I had your figure.¡±

    <hr>

    The warm, wet cloth gently glided across the smooth skin of Ada¡¯s neck and chest. After ten years of working as a prostitute, she knew how important it was to be clean. However, she was aware that the smell of sex could attract men. There was a delicate balance of maintaining proper hygiene and the alluring musk. One she had long since mastered.

    ¡°How would you like to be my personal concubine?¡± Ada looked over to the lord laying on the bed.

    ¡°That is a tempting offer, my lord.¡± She replied with a soft smile. The man¡¯s victorious smile made her chuckle. ¡°But my master wouldn¡¯t approve.¡± Her smiled turned amorous as she remembered that day Reviled saved her from Eirgnon. ¡°He can be very possessive.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m certain I can change his mind.¡± Lord Triemiere scoffed. She kept her smile up despite being assaulted by the disgusting sound. ¡°I¡¯ll gladly pay any price.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not a matter of money.¡± Ada said, slipping on her clothes. ¡°We are a part of him, and that¡¯s why he¡¯s so possessive.¡±

    ¡°Yet he whore¡¯s you out.¡±

    ¡°I am a prostitute, so why wouldn¡¯t he?¡± Ada¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Princes don¡¯t come to save us.¡±

    The Lord smiled brightly at her. ¡°I could save you.¡±

    ¡°Then you¡¯d have to fight my master.¡± She returned the smile, sauntering over to the bed. ¡°And I¡¯m afraid you¡¯d lose that fight.¡± She gingerly kissed him, enjoying the lustful glint in his eyes. ¡°But I¡¯ll still be here ready for you.¡± The Lord leaned forward, trying to extend the kiss, but she pulled away and gave him a playful wave as she left.

    With the door closed, Ada headed back to the main hall. She was aware of the looks the men were giving her, and it made her feel powerful. It was easy to manipulate men with a warm smile, a gentle touch, and some exposed skin. She brushed past a large adventurer, allowing her fingers to linger on his back, and he gave her that ridiculous smile men give when they perceive interest. It sent a tingle down her spine, and she gave him a lovely smile of her own as she returned to the bar.

    ¡°Is everything alright, madame Ada?¡± Vaera asked as she gathered the dishes.

    ¡°Yes, everything is fine. Do you know where Mina is?¡±

    ¡°Lady Mina went downstairs when you left with that lord.¡± One of the barmaids replied, looking concerned at the stairs. ¡°She hasn¡¯t come back since.¡±

    Ada sighed deeply. ¡°I¡¯d best go check on her.¡±

    Worry gnawed at her as she descended the stairs, and she was afraid about what she would find on the other side. However, she ended up smiling instead.

    ¡°No, no, no.¡± Cynmora scolded the amu¡¯ryjin. ¡°Each step must be purposeful, and what are you doing with your hips? You look like goose waddling across the street.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t understand what you mean.¡± Mina shrank into herself. She perked up a little when she spotted Ada. ¡°Are you alright?¡± She cried.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine dear.¡± Ada chuckled, stepping inside. ¡°Honestly, I was more worried about you.¡±

    ¡°You should be.¡± Cynmora huffed, rubbing her eyes. ¡°This little canary came in here crying her eyes out. Then this poor thing requested my help in developing her womanly charms.¡±

    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that.¡± Mina squirmed under their gaze.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry dear.¡± Ada took Mina into a warm embrace. ¡°If you wanted to work on your femininity then why not ask me?¡±

    Mina pressed her face into Ada¡¯s bosom. ¡°I¡¯m tired. Everyday I feel anxious about people looking at me like that lord. So, I thought that Cynmora could help me act more feminine.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡±

    ¡°I thought it would be best to start with teaching her how to walk,¡± Cynmora replied, ¡°The little thing walks around like she as a stick inside her.¡± The zymarrian gave a quick demonstration, and Ada was impressed at how skilled she was. ¡°She has the hips but doesn''t know how to swing them.¡±

    ¡°Before we start training her on walking, I think we should determine how she wants people to see her.¡±

    Cynmora nodded. ¡°Good point.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Mina glanced between them.

    ¡°It¡¯s important to determine how you want others to see you. After all, people look at a queen differently than they do a whore.¡± Ada smiled at her, playing with her hair.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want people leering at me.¡± Mina whispered.

    ¡°Then we should start with your clothes,¡± Ada said, ¡°How about we go shopping tomorrow. We can purchase you some fine clothes from the upper city, and we can teach you how to powder your face.¡± Mina stared at her in shock.

    ¡°I recommend we go with a rouge from Zymarra.¡± Cynmora stated, inspecting Mina¡¯s face. ¡°They put powdered gems in it, so it should give her a more ephemeral look.¡± Mina turned her eyes to Cynmora.

    ¡°That¡¯s a wonderful idea. Why don¡¯t you join us tomorrow?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love to.¡±

    Both women smiled brightly at Mina. ¡°We¡¯ll take good care of you, don¡¯t worry.¡±

 Fire in the Mountainâ€™s Heart

    The coals glowed brightly as the fire raged in the stone furnace. The heat forming cracks along the ashy white surfaces, renewing the fire¡¯s strength. Nestled in the bed of coals lay a piece of steel, glowing red from the intense heat. A massive black hand plucked the metal from the fire and sat it on the anvil, shaping with blows from his hammer.

    Temour stared vacantly at the burning metal. He had lost the feeling in his hands long ago. Being a blacksmith back home often meant forging with the appropriate tools, and his kind were naturally resilient to burning flames. The rustle of cloth drew his attention. Ezet sat a basket next to him, and inside lay bundles of braided copper wire.

    ¡°The wire thou requested.¡± Ezet said, adjusting the shawl on her head. A dried rivulet of blood stained her forehead.

    ¡°Appreciated.¡± Temour replied, setting the metal back into the flames. ¡°I shalt work on this next.¡± A chime came from the main shop.

    ¡°Zesh is in need of more nails, and his tools need sharpening.¡±

    ¡°Does he need them now?¡±

    ¡°He needs two now to finish a table the master requested.¡±

    Temour nodded solemnly as he gripped an iron stud on his collarbone. The piece of metal broke free from his flesh with strings of blood hanging it off it, then he tore off another stud. With a hot iron, Temour burned the wounds closed on his flesh. It didn¡¯t take long to turn the iron studs into nails.

    ¡°Two nails, as requested.¡± He gently placed the metal in Ezet¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Temour, I have another job for you.¡± They both looked up at the zymarrian man entering the forge with a young girl at his side. ¡°Mistress Vaera needs her kitchen knives sharpened.¡±

    ¡°I shalt tend to it after I complete this component for the master,¡± Temour replied, ¡°It is nearly completed, master Ashamahn.¡±

    Ashamahn turned to the little girl. ¡°Do you mind waiting for a while?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind.¡± Vaera smiled at the zymarrian, and he silently disappeared back inside. The girl stood to the side, staring at the copper braids. ¡°Is this for jewelry?¡± she smiled, holding one up.

    ¡°Tis for the master.¡± Ezet¡¯s lips twisted into an imperceivable smile. ¡°Once coated in tin and silver, it¡¯ll be used for the master¡¯s machine.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s quite soft for being copper.¡± Vaera stared at it in fascination. ¡°Almost feels like¡­ hair.¡± Her smile faded when she looked up at Ezet. She dropped the braid in horror. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry!¡±

    Ezet kneeled, petting Vaera¡¯s head. ¡°Don¡¯t be. Tis our duty to be of use to our master.¡± Her hands gingerly ran through the girl¡¯s hair.

    The silence felt palpable among them that not even the rhythmic beating of metal could dispel it. Both women watched as the metal took on a strange shape and after a final strike, Temour drowned the metal in oil. Black scars seared the sides of the piece as Temour wiped away the remaining oil, and he sat it to the side.

    ¡°That didn¡¯t come from you, did it?¡± Vaera stared in awe as steam danced into the air.

    ¡°No, it¡¯d kill me to give that much metal.¡± Temour said, his deep voice made the chuckle come out as a grumble. ¡°But mine hair shalt be used to coat Ezet¡¯s braids.¡± He grabbed a whetstone from a table and started sharpening the knives. Despite his large hands, he gracefully ran the blades across the oiled stone.

    ¡°So, you¡¯ll shave your head as well.¡± Temour glanced at her frowning face. Rare was it that such an expression stoked his heart.

    ¡°Do not mourn child,¡± He said, ¡°The mountain does not cry because it is mined, and neither do we.¡±

    ¡°But the mountains aren¡¯t alive!¡± Vaera¡¯s shout shocked him. He hadn¡¯t expected such a small girl to make such a noise. Temour set the knife down and kneeled next to her. Even on one knee, he toured over her.

    ¡°That is where you¡¯re wrong.¡± He cupped her chin and stared into her eyes. ¡°The mountains art very much alive, and tis unwise to incur their wrath.¡± He handed back the knives. ¡°Be careful child, I wouldn¡¯t want you to hurt yourself.¡±

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Vaera whispered, taking the utensils and quietly leaving.

    Ezet stepped up beside Temour. ¡°Poor child, I fear we may have broken her.¡±

    ¡°She will heal from this,¡± Temour replied, ¡°It¡¯ll make her stronger for it. Now come, I¡¯ll need your assistance.¡± He picked up a thick bladed razor and handed it to her.

    <hr>

    The days passed with little change. Temour stood over the wooden table, molding golden wire around the guard of a long sword. The hot metal hissed as his fingers pressed it into the wood and twisted it into golden braids. He reached over to the small pick and plucked several of the threads. It was a long process, and the heat from the gold washed over his face, but this was a task he needed to finish. Finally, he set the hilt down to cool. The gold wires wrapped around the wood and steel handle in the image of thorny vines. It sat next to twenty identical hilts, each cooling in the cool evening air.

    ¡°Excellently done, Temour.¡± Ashamahn clapped the giant arms. ¡°They¡¯ll go nicely with the uniforms that Ezet made.¡±

    ¡°Twas the point,¡± Temour replied, ¡°Have more materials arrived? I can¡¯t continue working on the master¡¯s machine without them.¡±

    ¡°A new shipment should arrive by the end of the week. Til then, you are to work on the equipment for the master¡¯s knights.¡± Ashamahn looked towards the sinking sun. ¡°However, it is getting late. For your diligent work, we shall head to the tavern tonight. Go tell the others to get cleaned up.¡±

    Temour nodded and lumbered inside. Well stocked shelves filled the store front with clearly marked tags under each item. The zymarrian merchant oversaw the creation of the shop, from the utensils neatly displayed behind the counter to the woolen dolls sitting in the window. Temour couldn¡¯t deny the man was a master of his craft. Not many could make a shop profitable in the lower city, but Ashamahn had. The thought passed as Temour stepped into the open workshop on the other side.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Wood shavings littered the floor of the wooden carpentry shop. Zesh kneeled on the floor, sculpting floral effigies into the side of a long pew while his sister sewed the seat cushion. The bench was a testament to the young oruelians skills. Its finely carved handles and feet were full of details that would make the seat worthy of any cathedral. Ezet¡¯s work was equally impression. It was rare for seats to have uniform cushions, but Ezet was one of the few seamstresses that could do it.

    ¡°Time to put the tools away young ones.¡± Temour said with a smile. ¡°Get cleaned, so that we may feast this night.¡±

    The young oruelians nodded and rose silently. A comfortable silence fell upon them as they headed out back to a water trough. The cold water barely registered on their skins as they splashed their faces.

    ¡°Shalt I prepare dinner?¡± Ezet asked wiping the water way.

    ¡°No, we are headed to the tavern tonight.¡± Temour replied. ¡°It seems we are being rewarded for our work.¡± Their eyes sparkled as a small smile formed on their lips, and it brought a smile to Temour. ¡°You have done well.¡± He said clapping each on the shoulder, and the young ones lovingly touched his hands.

    The three of them headed inside where Ashamahn stood waiting. The zymarrian gave them a broad smile as he led them across the square to the tavern. The other night, adventurers had made a ruckus, but now it was completely silent.

    ¡°Welcome!¡± The barmaids called out to them with warm smiles. ¡°Please sit wherever you want.¡±

    Unfortunately, not many of the tables could sit the giants, so they had to sit on the floor. They could still eat from the tables though.

    ¡°What can we get for you all?¡± Ada gracefully slid next to their table.

    ¡°Thrice water and soup for us.¡± Temour chuckled as he looked at the expectant Ezet and Zesh.

    Ada frowned. ¡°Is that all? You¡¯re free to order anything on the house.¡±

    ¡°Pardon?¡± Temour simply stared at the beautiful woman.

    ¡°The master¡¯s orders. Any who bear his mark are to be served for free.¡± Something about her words felt wrong, especially when she started chuckling at them. ¡°How about we bring out a little of everything for you.¡±

    ¡°And I¡¯ll have a bottle of your finest wine.¡± Ashamahn called out.

    ¡°Tis what she said true?¡± Ezet whispered, glancing worriedly at the bar. ¡°We won¡¯t be charged for our meal.¡±

    ¡°It seems our master is quite generous. We should triple our efforts starting tomorrow.¡± Ashamahn leered at the women.

    ¡°Agreed.¡± Before Temour could say anything else, the barmaids were setting down the food.

    Two large bowls of salad, a large pot of soup, and entire roasted chicken, and plates of seared vegetables were set in front of them. Ashamahn laughed gleefully at the feast laid in front of them, but the oruelians stared in disbelief.

    ¡°Please enjoy everyone!¡± Ada smiled warmly at them as she set down glasses and poured a rich amber liquid into them. ¡°Here, I think you¡¯ll like this.¡± Ashamahn didn¡¯t hesitate to take the small glass and downed the contents in delight.

    ¡°What is it?¡± Temour carefully picked up the glass with three fingers.

    ¡°It¡¯s whiskey.¡± Temour¡¯s gaze shifted between the glass and Ada. He took a sip, and a fruity taste burned its way down throat. ¡°What do you think?¡±

    ¡°Tis nice.¡± Temour replied, enjoying the warm sensation in his stomach. ¡°But I fear we shalt become spoiled.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with being a little spoiled.¡± Ada tenderly kissed his cheek. ¡°After all, you three have done wonderful works for us, and we¡¯d like to repay it.¡±

    Ada¡¯s soft touch sent sparks running along Temour¡¯s skin, and he shifted under her grasp. He couldn¡¯t remember the last time he enjoyed a woman¡¯s loving embrace, and he wasn¡¯t the only one. Zesh sat next to him, trying not to look at the barmaid running a hand across his back. Instead, the poor boy sought to hide his embarrassment with the food in front of them. Another figure approached their table, and they all stared in shock as the young girl held up a package.

    ¡°Mistress Ezet, this is for you.¡± Vaera smiled sheepishly.

    ¡°Child, what happened to thine hair?¡± Ezet said. The young girl¡¯s hair barely hung past her ears.

    ¡°I asked mother to cut it.¡± Vaera said nervously. ¡°It wasn¡¯t right for you to lose your beautiful hair, so¡­ here.¡± Ezet carefully took the package, and a tear rolled down her cheek as she pulled out a wig with brown hair. An unending silence fell on the table. ¡°Do you not like it?¡± Vaera whimpered as Ezet ran her fingers through the hair.

    Ezet gave her a warm, broad smile. ¡°I shalt cherish it, little sister.¡±

    The tender moment was broken when the door slammed open, and five men entered. They walked with disciplined steps as their heavy boots echoed throughout the hall. Each wore decent uniforms with an arming sword at their belt. All signs pointing to off duty guards.

    ¡°Is this the tavern with the amu¡¯ryjin minstrel?¡±

    ¡°It is.¡± Ada replied with a polite smile. ¡°But Lady Mina is off tonight. She will perform tomorrow though.¡±

    ¡°Well then go fetch her! We¡¯ve had a long day protecting the city, and we deserve to be entertained.¡± The guards grumbled, looking around the hall in contempt.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid that won¡¯t be possible.¡± Ada smiled. ¡°Lady Mina is out with the master and won¡¯t be back for some time. Perhaps my girls and I can entertain you for tonight.¡± She ran a hand along his chin.

    The Guard¡¯s eyed the women. ¡°If we wanted to be entertained by whores, then we¡¯d go to a brothel. Now go fetch the amu¡¯ryjin.¡± Ada screamed as the guard violently pulled her hand away. Wood scraped against stone as the oruelians stood up.

    ¡°My friends, let¡¯s not be so aggressive.¡± Ashamahn jumped from his chair and rushed over to the guards. ¡°Come, let us enjoy good food, drink, and the company of beautiful women.¡± He smiled as he freed Ada, but his eyes kept glancing at the shifting giants.

    ¡°Get away snake!¡± The guard shoved Ashamahn into a nearby table. A shadow fell on them, and they stared up at the oruelians.

    ¡°Thou art ruining our festivities.¡± Temour deep voice rumbled in his chest. His grey eyes staring sharply at the men. ¡°Leave, now.¡±

    ¡°Quick everyone, to the bar!¡±

    The guards placed a hand on their weapons. ¡°Sit down giant! Otherwise, we¡¯ll cut you down to size.¡± His eyes bulged as a hand grasped his neck, and his legs swung wildly in the air.

    Temour¡¯s hand tightened, but his attention was drawn to the ringing of metal. A sword dug into his arm causing steaming blood to fall. The guard stared in horror as the oruelian turned his gaze to him.

    The guard that attacked Temour backed away, but he didn¡¯t get far. Ezet towered over him, and her fingers wrapped around his head. He tried pulling her hands away, but her grasp held strong. His screams drowned out the sounds of his skull cracking.

    ¡°Monsters!¡± Another guard drew his weapon, but a pair of hands grasped his shoulders. He flew, crashing into a table, and released a terrible howl. He cried as she stared at the bones poking out of his pants, and the foot pressed against his leg. The guard trembled as Zesh lifted him into the air. The blade whistled through the air, digging into Zesh¡¯s shoulder, but the guard whimpered as the oruelian maintained his grip.

    ¡°Get rid of them already!¡± Ashamahn shouted from the bar. ¡°You¡¯re destroying the master¡¯s tavern.¡±

    Bodies crashed through the door into the dark night, and the guards shied away from the giant shadows approaching. ¡°Don¡¯t come back, ever.¡± Temour¡¯s growl shook the air. The three giants watched as the three guards limped away.

    Their hard gazes softened as they looked upon the destruction. ¡°Forgive us.¡± The three of them looked down in shame.

    Ada pressed a cloth against Temour¡¯s wound with a bright smile. ¡°You saved us, thank you.¡±

    Vaera looked up at Ezet. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you get angry before.¡±

    ¡°There is a saying back in Zymarra.¡± Ashamahn chuckled. ¡°Do not wake the sleeping mountain, lest you make fire to rain from the sky.¡± He took a deep drink, eyeing the three giants.

    ¡°Their offense was great, and we returned it in kind.¡± Ezet replied with a shameful glance. ¡°After all little sister, we¡¯d hate for you to suffer so.¡±

    ¡°Little sister?¡±

    Ashamahn pointed to the gift. ¡°Being a slave race, oruelians have very little. That which they do own is highly cherished, especially gifts.¡±

    ¡°Because we own so little, often times we make gifts from the ore in our bodies.¡± Ezet smiled warmly at the girl. ¡°To craft a gift from one¡¯s own flesh is a sign of true love, little sister.¡±

    ¡°Then, for coming to our rescue, we have gifts for you as well.¡± Ada pulled Temour¡¯s hand, leading him to the stairs. Despite his large size, Temour didn¡¯t have the strength to pull away from her warm grip. Zesh gasped as a barmaid dragged him along as well, and Ezet followed Vaera. ¡°I believe you¡¯ll enjoy this.¡± Ada¡¯s eyes sparkled as she smiled at him.

 The Chains of Fate

    ¡°Quick, we must get everything ready!¡± Eirgnon clapped his hands, ushering his followers to move faster.

    The dilapidated manor now stood whole and furnished to be a proper place of worship. Red and gold ribbons decorated the twin staircases. Incense filled the room with a smoke that left a rich savory taste on the tongue, and the candles bathed the room in golden light. Eirgnon tightly gripped the banister as he watch a group of his followers brush the expensive carpet that led to his house¡¯s inner sanctuary.

    ¡°Everything must be perfect.¡±

    ¡°Father Eirgn, is our guest truly that special.¡± He turned to the girl approaching. One of Thom¡¯s daughters, the youngest, had a scent that was sweet but not fully ripened.

    ¡°My sweet Khora.¡± He smiled, gently brushing away a stray lock. ¡°Our guest is the Emissary of our Lady. His hands act out her will.¡± Eirgnon spiked tongue ran along his fangs, and he had to fight back the urge to suckle on her bare neck. He turned away, his fingers digging into the wood. ¡°Tonight, our Lady shall bless us greatly.¡±

    Khora¡¯s eyes shined brightly, and she brought her hands to her chest. ¡°Will we hear her voice?¡± A slight blush came to her cheeks as her eyes glazed over.

    ¡°Yes, and that is why everything must be perfect.¡±

    Khora ran down the stairs shouting, ¡°Everyone, our Lady will be speaking with us tonight!¡± Her words caused everyone to work harder.

    ¡°Master, you should get ready as well.¡± Eirgnon turned to his lovely Magia.

    Ever since her transformation, Magia was no longer the thin, spindly woman that could pass as a boy. She filled out her dark dress nicely. A shawl hung loose off her shoulder and covered her head, but it left enough of her flesh exposed to tantalize his hunger. The pleased smile on her lips betrayed her intent.

    ¡°You¡¯re right, my dear.¡± Eirgnon pulled her close and took in a deep breath. Her scent had also enriched as well. ¡°That being said, I¡¯m certain there is still time to indulge.¡± Eirgnon¡¯s tongue glided across her skin and his fangs itched.

    ¡°Later master.¡± Magia¡¯s heady voice betrayed her own wanting. ¡°We wouldn¡¯t want to upset the Emissary again.¡± Her fingers ran along Eirgnon¡¯s neck, and a worried shine filled her eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t want to see you suffer.¡±

    ¡°True.¡± He breathed against her. ¡°I must control myself. Otherwise, I may make a fool of myself again.¡± He pulled away, heading to his room. ¡°Lady Elithis rarely gives second chances, and never gives thirds.¡± He stepped into his room and stripped out of his normal garbs. ¡°This is my chance to prove that I¡¯m still worthy of her. Magia, help me dress.¡±

    Eirgnon slipped on a thick white tunic with golden seams. Then, Magia helped him adorn a bright chainmail shirt. The black links of the cursed steel made the room feel darker than it should. A black silk robe draped across his figure and was held together by a golden sash. Large leather pauldrons with spiked studs rested on his shoulders, and long golden chains ran the length of his arms to connect the pauldrons to his gloves. Magia gave him a seductive smile as she knelt to assist in putting on his boots, then she rose to smooth out his lapels and secure his hood to his head.

    ¡°You look truly inspiring master.¡± Magia said as passion burned in her eyes.

    Eirgnon¡¯s own smile grew as he admired his reflection. ¡°This is how an Archmagus truly looks.¡± He took a deep breath. The power of the Cursed Steel seared his body, a feeling he had long forgotten. ¡°Come, let us go welcome our Lord.¡±

    <hr>

    Reviled stepped out of the carriage looking at the reconstructed manor. In the few short months, it truly looked like a proper place of worship. Ornate stained-glass windows filled every frame, and the lawn was immaculate. Lanterns lined the main walkway to the large double doubles, and over the doors was a sign with an open book with a golden cover.

    Baron straightened out his coat and glanced over at Reviled. ¡°You¡¯ve done well Baron.¡± It said, nodding in approval. ¡°It truly amazes us at how quickly you can get things done.¡±

    ¡°Thank you master.¡± Baron bowed, his smile growing as he noticed the sour looks on the two women at Reviled¡¯s side. ¡°It was an honor to be of service.¡±

    ¡°Regardless, you shall be rewarded. Your stipend shall be greatly increased, so you no longer need to swindle our coin to make ends meet.¡± Reviled chuckled at Baron¡¯s horrified expression. ¡°Also, speak with Ashamahn about getting your manor properly furnished.¡±

    Baron¡¯s voice quivered as the monster walked away. ¡°Thank you master.¡± He tried to ignore the smug smile on Meridith¡¯s face as she followed. He was able to relax when Taela and Charolette took his arms.

    As they approached, two of Eirgnon¡¯s guards stood at the door. They stared at Reviled with awe and fear. ¡°Welcome to the House of Destiny, o esteemed Lord. The master and his flock eagerly await you.¡±

    ¡°Then let us not keep them waiting.¡± Reviled replied, shifting the cloak on its shoulders.

    The doors swung open to ethereal fanfare. A rich carpet guided the group through the main hall with Eirgnon¡¯s followers standing perfectly aligned on either side. Zeal filled their eyes as they looked upon Reviled, and some of the younger disciples tried to peek under the darkened hood. However, there was one pair of eyes that lacked respect.

    ¡°O hallowed Emissary.¡± Eirgnon¡¯s call drew Reviled¡¯s attention. Reviled held in the chuckle as he stared at the sanguinite at the top of the stairs. Eirgnon flew into the air, drawing gasps of admiration from the crowd, and gently landed on the floor in front of Reviled. ¡°Welcome to our humble House of Destiny, my lord.¡± He kneeled and bowed his head low. As one, each of the followers kneeled in kind.

    ¡°Rise and be at peace.¡± Reviled¡¯s voice echoed through the silent hall. ¡°Come all you children of Fate and let us hear the voice of our Lady.¡± Cheers erupted as Eirgnon rose to his feet and led them into the sanctuary.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    The manor¡¯s dining hall was converted into a small sanctuary. An odd number of pews made the room look uneven, but there were enough seats for everyone. At the back stood a well-crafted altar with a large wooden effigy of Elithis. In one hand she held an open book and in the other she held an orb. The statue was simple yet well-made.

    ¡°We have another being made that is worthy of her. It¡¯s simply taking time to get the materials.¡± Eirgnon whispered, eyeing the statue in disgust.

    As everyone shuffled inside, the warlock waved his hands. A podium and six chairs flew and landed right in front of the altar. The followers waited until Reviled¡¯s six companions took their seats before sitting down. Reviled stood behind the podium, staring at the crowd.

    ¡°Children of Fate.¡± Reviled¡¯s voice reverberated unnaturally through the room. ¡°Tonight, you stand at a crossroad, and a choice needs to be made.¡± The Tome of Elithis formed on the podium. A clawed finger caressed the cover. ¡°Father Eirgn has taught you the tenets of our Lady, given you a taste of her greatness, but you have yet to be truly brought into the flock.¡± Hushed whispers filled the room as everyone glanced around worriedly. ¡°Tonight, you must make a choice. Shall you devote yourself fully to the Lady of Fate, or return to the Virtues that abandoned you? Choose, for there is no going back.¡± A few shifted in their seats, and some glanced at the door, but none left. ¡°So be it.¡±

    Reviled carefully opened the cover, and the pages turned on their own until they stopped on a single spell. ¡°Bind you not to the illusion of freedom, instead take hold of the manacles of duty.¡± Crimson wisps of necrotic mana seeped from the tome and snaked towards the crowd. ¡°Compare you not to those beside you but keep your eyes forever forward. By her hands are your lives made worthy, and by her voice are your works extoled.¡± The threads wrapped around the followers wrists and ankles, and each of them fell into prayer, except for one. ¡°Put on the chains of Fate, so that you never wander from your path and make your life forfeit.¡± A deep silence fell over the room, as the lights were immediately extinguished. The only lights that remained illuminated the statue of Elithis.

    My children. Reviled watched as the followers all looked to the statue. It pleases me that you all have chosen me. I have seen how the followers of Virtue treated you. How they promised you refuge, only to then leave you starving and cold on the street. The wisps of magic caressed the followers¡¯ faces, slightly illuminating them in the darkness. Quiet sobs could be heard under Elithis¡¯ voice. I won¡¯t abandon you like they did, and to prove my love, I shall mark you as my own. The people below clutched at their chests. Upon your hearts I have dictated your paths. Some shall be my eyes. Be ever vigilant. Some shall be my hands. Your works shall bear much fruit. Those who bear my mouth, never stop speaking of me, so that all may know of my greatness. Finally, those that bear my feet, you shall go out into the world so that I can follow.

    Reviled watched as the cultists stared down at the crests marking their chests, but a horrifying scream broke the silence. One man jumped from his pew. He stared in pain and fear as his shirt darkened. Blood started seeping from his eyes and ears as he started stumbling towards the door, but the wisps of necrotic magic dragged him back. He screamed in pain as the magic held him in the air for all to see.

    However, this one is unworthy. The man coughed up a torrent of blood that dripped onto the floor. This one had it in his heart to betray you. To place you all into the hands of those abandoned you.

    The crowd murmured as they stared at him. ¡°How could you?¡± A voice called from the darkness.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you see it?¡± The man choked on his own blood. ¡°They are monsters serving a Dead God. They have damned your souls. What is wrong with you all?¡±

    Silence filled the hall.

    ¡°What have the Virtues done for us?¡± Nearly two dozen eyes shined with zealous fire as they stared at him. ¡°Father Eirgn took us in. He put a roof over our heads and gave us food to eat.¡± Anger and hatred twisted theirs faces. ¡°The Lady of Fate has cast her gaze on us. She has given us purpose, and you want to take it from us!¡± Spit started seeping from their lips as their fists pounded the air. ¡°Death to the traitor!¡±

    The Man stared in horror as they chanted. He released howls of agony as his body arched forward. The necrotic magic held his hands and feet back, and his chest bulged outward. His screams reached their peak as his chest burst opened, and his still beating heart came free. Blood showered onto the congregation, and their cheers drowned out his suffering. The man watched in terror as the air split opened in front of him, and a hand reached out to his heart.

    ¡°Death to the traitor.¡± Elithis smiled as she crushed the organ in her hands. The corpse fell to the ground as everyone fell to their knees. ¡°My children, you still choose me?¡±

    ¡°Yes!¡±

    A soft chuckle filled the air. ¡°That pleases me,¡± she said, ¡°However, I am not content.¡± A hushed silence fell, and none had the courage to look up. ¡°My emissary, my avatar, my son knows my true desires, and you all must support him in his endeavors. We must act first, otherwise the Virtues and their followers will take everything from you, and I don¡¯t want to see my children suffer.¡±

    Quiet filled the room, but it was broken by a single man in the front row. ¡°As you command, my Lady.¡±

    The portal appeared before him, and Elithis lifted his head to look at her. ¡°My sweet Thom.¡± She cooed, giving him a small kiss. ¡°I appreciate your fervor and shall bestow my blessings upon you.¡± Thom¡¯s eyes glazed over, and he had the widest smile on his face. ¡°Your words shall pierce the hearts of all that hear them. Your strength shall never waver." She ran a hand across his cheeks. "I ask, will you take up my mantle?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Then I shall name you Phyreheart.¡± Elithis gave him a deeper, passionate kiss. ¡°Let your passion burn all my enemies to ash, my paladin.¡± As she pulled away, everyone gasped.

    The signs of age were no longer on Thom¡¯s body. His face no longer carried any wrinkles, and instead was replaced with a youthful vigor. His thinning brown hair was lusher and more vibrant, and bulging muscles now stretched the sleeves of his tunic. The three women at his side pounced on him, embracing him with warm smiles.

    ¡°Go my children and fulfill my will.¡± Elithis¡¯ voice echoed as the portal faded.

    Elithis¡¯ presence stole the words from the congregation, but their voice returned as Reviled tore off his cloak. It stepped towards Thom and his daughters and stared down at them.

    ¡°You¡¯ve had a taste of her greatness Phyreheart but is that enough?¡± Reviled stretched out a hand.

    Thom took the metal hand. ¡°No, my lord. I want more for myself, my daughters, and for everyone here.¡±

    ¡°Then we have much to do.¡± Reviled pulled the man to his feet.

    ¡°My lord.¡± A woman carrying an infant nervously approached. ¡°Forgive me, but I ask for your guidance. My son, his mark is different from my own. What does it mean?¡± She held out the swaddled babe.

    The woman shook as Reviled gently pulled back the blanket. A hand holding a skull marked the boy¡¯s chest. The babe let out a small cry and his left hand grasped at a thread of necrotic mana.

    ¡°My dear, you have nothing to worry about.¡± Eirgnon smiled brightly as he embraced the woman. She brought her child close as he led her to the corpse. ¡°Lady Elithis has made your son a master of death.¡± He smiled as he pulled at her blouse and stared at her chest. ¡°You have been blessed as well, Saint Ilda.¡± The woman glanced down at the mark on her chest as Eirgnon dipped his thumb into the corpse. He pressed his thumb against the child¡¯s forehead. ¡°Blessed are you son of death, for the hand of Elithis is upon you.¡± He then placed the thumb on Ilda¡¯s head. ¡°Blessed are you daughter of faith, for the heart of Elithis beats in your breast.¡± Ilda held her son tightly as Eirgnon kissed the top of her head.

    Reviled pulled Thom to the altar as Eirgnon brought Ilda. ¡°Praise Elithis!¡± Reviled called out, gesturing to the two of you. ¡°For she has given you your champions!¡± The congregation cheers rocked the manor.

 Dire News

    The rustling of pages disturbed the somber silence that filled the library. Emir sat behind a wall of books, combing through them. With a sigh, he set the book down and moved to the next one, but he was interrupted when a tower of books dropped onto the table.

    ¡°Here are those tomes you requested.¡± Niel slumped into one of the chairs. ¡°What are you looking for anyway?¡±

    ¡°Saint Urielle asked me to look into a new cult that¡¯s formed in the city.¡± Emir glared as he rearranged the books.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure the Patron will put it down.¡±

    ¡°No, I checked the records, and Patron Waldren has given them his permission to practice.¡± Emir¡¯s eyes flashed between his companion and the door. ¡°I fear that the Patron is compromised.¡± He whispered.

    Niel sat straight and leaned over. ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°Fate is not a domain that belongs to the Virtues.¡± Emir replied, hiding behind his book. ¡°If anything, it goes against the core of their being. Our lives are determined by anything other than our own actions, but concepts like fate and destiny contradict that.¡± Niel stared at him confused. ¡°If this faith isn¡¯t dedicated to a Virtue, then it must worship a Dead God.¡± Emir sighed in frustration.

    ¡°Then what are we waiting for!¡± Niel jumped from his seat. ¡°Let¡¯s go destroy them!¡±

    ¡°We can¡¯t be too hasty.¡± Emir pulled his companion down. ¡°Saint Urielle has become suspicious of Patron Waldren, and she wants to gather evidence to present to his Holiness. Otherwise, he could convince his Holiness that he was manipulated.¡±

    ¡°How do these books help us?¡±

    Emir quickly skimmed through the book in his hands. ¡°In the past, the deities have had other domains under them, for example, marriage and spousal love is a domain belonging to Touldan and Shecoga, Bellidrex was once considered the god of vengeance, and even Yaniel and Ulmerak were seen as gods of secrets. The only reason why many of Virtues¡¯ lesser domains aren¡¯t prominent is because of the Reformation that happened during the Blood Reign.¡± He rubbed his eyes in frustration. ¡°The problem is that most of the knowledge before the Crimson Queen was lost.¡±

    ¡°Do you at least have any ideas on which god it could be?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve ruled out Bellidrex and Opprez. The concept of destiny doesn¡¯t fit the personalities of the gods of conquest and obsession.¡± Emir said, tapping the table. ¡°I¡¯ll probably add Gezaria to that list as well. I doubt the Harlot could perceive such a thing as fate and destiny, and I¡¯d say the same about Demure, the goddess of excess. Which leaves Elithis and Ulmerak.¡±

    ¡°The Tome of Elithis was in this city. Could it have been started by Bartholomew Decker?¡±

    ¡°Now that you mention it, Saint Urielle did say the cultist were working as servants for Baron Decker.¡±

    ¡°Then I think we should look deeper into this Baron as well.¡±

    <hr>

    Hammers rang as they struck metal, and the heat spilled in from the forge at the back. Racks lined the walls filled with weapons alongside tables holding shields. Spears with silk tassels hung from the walls on gilded hooks. Each piece here would be a treasure in any armory, but it made Torrn¡¯s stump itch terribly.

    ¡°What are we doing here?¡± he glared at his companion.

    ¡°We¡¯re here to find you a new shield.¡± Regald smiled brightly. ¡°Jericho is a fortress city, filled with many skilled blacksmiths. One of them must be able to help you with your hand.¡± His smile faded slightly. ¡°Besides, you are a skilled fighter and great paladin. Not being able to use a tower shield shouldn¡¯t keep you from fulfilling your oath.¡±

    ¡°My shield is a symbol, like that tiara on your head.¡± Torrn growled.

    ¡°It¡¯s a circlet.¡± Regald adjusted the iron headpiece with a frown. ¡°And the shield is not the symbol Torrn, you are.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s my symbol.¡± The large man whispered. ¡°Without it, I feel vulnerable, weak.¡± His left arm shook slightly.

    ¡°Maybe you should put more faith in your Virtue, and not in some trinket.¡±

    ¡°Perhaps you¡¯re right, but that doesn¡¯t change the situation.¡± Torrn rubbed his stump.

    Regald gently patted his friend¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Go look at the shields while I talk with the master. Maybe they can do something.¡±

    Torrn nodded as he mindlessly walked over to the shields. He was impressed by the quality of the items, but none truly stood out. The bucklers were too small, perfect for a fencer, but not him, and the heaters lacked the heft he was used to. He was about to turn away until a large round shield drew his eye, and he slipped it into his right hand. The weight felt good, even if it was lighter than his old shield.

    ¡°Did you find one that you like?¡± Regald beamed as he approached with the smith in tow.

    ¡°Not too bad.¡± Torrn sneered, but it turned into a small smile. ¡°Unfortunately, I can¡¯t wield it.¡±

    ¡°There might be a way.¡± Regald turned to the blacksmith.

    ¡°There have been attempts at creating a special harness so that people can wield a shield without a hand.¡± The Smith stroked his beard. ¡°However, it has mainly been used on small to medium shields. The weight puts too much strain on the forearm. If you were to choose a smaller shield, then I can give it a shot.¡±If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Torrn sighed as he set the shield down. ¡°No need. I don¡¯t feel comfortable wielding a smaller shield.¡±

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we try another shop?¡± Regald said hastily. ¡°Surely we can find a smith that can alter the shield for you.¡±

    ¡°Why not that new shop in the lower city?¡± A voice called out from the back, and the Smith snarled loudly.

    ¡°What shop?¡±

    ¡°A zymarrian opened a shop in the lower city.¡± The Smith sighed in frustration. ¡°He has a few oruelians working for him, and they¡¯ve drawn the eye of Lady Priscilla.¡±

    ¡°Should we take a look?¡± Regald eyed Torrn hopefully.

    ¡°Very well.¡± Torrn chuckled, slapping Regald hard on the back. ¡°But we should at least buy the shield here first."

    <hr>

    Torrn and Regald stared in amazement. The central square of the lower city looked immaculate with fine stalls scattered around. The newly renovated buildings sat neatly next to each other along with the large hall at the end of the end of the square. The people running about with smiles in their clean clothing.

    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a lower city look this clean.¡± Torrn said.

    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about the renovations, but I didn¡¯t think they¡¯d be this extensive.¡± Regald chuckled. ¡°There¡¯s the shop!¡± They stepped inside the wide two-story building.

    A bell announced their entrance, and a zymarrian man stepped from behind the counter. ¡°Welcome, and how may I be of service?¡± he said with a charming smile.

    ¡°Can you perform alterations of equipment?¡± Regald asked as Torrn slipped the shield off his back.

    ¡°Of course, my blacksmith is skilled enough to make any changes that you need.¡± The clerk replied. ¡°And what alterations do you need?¡±

    ¡°I need to be able to use this shield with my left arm.¡± Torrn revealed the stump of his missing hand.

    The clerk gently took Torrn¡¯s arm. ¡°I see. You still have most of your forearm, so it shouldn¡¯t be too difficult.¡± He smiled warmly at them. ¡°Let us go ask my smith for his opinion.¡±

    The paladins followed the clerk into the smithy. They were amazed to see an oruelian sitting at a table polishing a wooden scabbard. The dark wood had golden inlay depicting thorny vines. Two dozen similar scabbards with swords sat on a nearby table.

    ¡°Temour, a moment of your time please.¡± The giant glanced at them as he sat the scabbard down. ¡°These noble paladins are in need of alterations to their shield.¡±

    ¡°What kind of alterations?¡±

    Torrn stepped forward and cleared his throat. ¡°I lost my left hand in combat, and I need this round shield altered so I can use it without one.¡±

    The giant took the shield and inspected it. ¡°This shield is too new. Why not alter thine original shield?¡±

    ¡°Because it¡¯s a tower shield. I¡¯ve been told that I wouldn¡¯t be able to wield it anymore due to the weight.¡±

    ¡°True words.¡± Temour said in thought. ¡°Multiple straps will need to be added, so that thou canst secure it to thine arm. Maybe a secured glove to slip thine arm in would help as well.¡±

    ¡°Can it be done?¡±

    ¡°Easily. Master Ashamahn, please provide several leather belts and a glove that¡¯ll fit his arm.¡± Temour set the shield onto the table. ¡°Should be done within the hour.¡±

    Torrn¡¯s eyes fell to the two dozen swords. ¡°Did you make those?¡±

    ¡°Yes, mine master requested them for his knights.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize the zymarrian was a noble?¡± Regald laughed as he took one of the swords. ¡°They¡¯re beautiful. Makes me want to commission a sword of my own.¡±

    Temour¡¯s lips twitched upwards. ¡°I am grateful for the compliment. However, master Ashamahn is not mine master.¡±

    ¡°Who is your master?¡±

    Temour looked to the square. ¡°The one responsible for this change.¡±

    <hr>

    Urielle knelt before the statue of Shecoga. Guilt clutched her heart for her inaction, but after the events in the sewers along with the slave auction, she felt that things were beyond her. The Patron¡¯s actions drew her suspicions, so she had sent a letter to the Archbishop. Now, she prayed that his Holiness would make the right decision.

    ¡°Saint Urielle.¡± She glanced over at the young acolyte. ¡°A letter has arrived for you.¡±

    Urielle smiled warmly as she took the letter, and she sighed in relief at the wax seal. ¡°Thank you. Please gather my paladin companions would you.¡± The acolyte nodded and quietly left.

    Urielle rose from her position and moved to a corner in the sanctuary. She hated the feeling of skulking about, but she didn¡¯t want anyone to see the letter. A silent prayer escaped her lips as she opened the letter.

    She immediately recognized the beautiful script of the Archbishop¡¯s hand, which made her heart feel light in her chest. However, her shoulders slumped as the weight of his Holiness¡¯ words fell on her, and a single tear ran down her cheek. The grave news made her head feel heavy, and she had to rest it against the wall.

    ¡°Is something the matter, my lady?¡± Niel asked quietly as he approached.

    ¡°I have dire news, but the others should be present to hear this.¡± Urielle slipped the letter up her sleeve. ¡°Let¡¯s head to one of the sitting rooms.¡± She glided through the sanctuary. ¡°How has the research into the fate cult going?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve exhausted everything we could here.¡± Niel replied quietly. ¡°Emir is certain that the cult worships a Dead God, but he couldn¡¯t determine which one. Perhaps a temple of Yaniel would have the answers we seek.¡±

    ¡°I feared as much.¡± Urielle sighed.

    ¡°Lady Urielle, you said they were working for Baron Decker when you met them correct?¡±

    Horrifying realization struck her. ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s wise to consult master Decker going forward. He¡¯s clearly been compromised.¡±

    ¡°How long has he been working for our enemies.¡± The thoughts buzzing around her head made her stomach twist in pain. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s even working with Reviled Legion?¡±

    ¡°We should discuss this with the others.¡±

    As they approached one of the rooms, Emir stepped out from the library and fell in line. Before they stepped inside one of the rooms, Torrn and Regald were running to catch up.

    ¡°Sorry, we recently came back from getting Torrn a new shield.¡± Regald said, closing the door.

    ¡°I¡¯m glad you found a new shield.¡± Urielle smiled sadly at him. ¡°I fear you¡¯re going to need it soon.¡± She handed over the letter. Their eyes skimmed through, and their faces paled as they finished the letter.

    ¡°Virtues save us.¡± Regald whispered as the news forced him to sit. ¡°The Wight King¡¯s forces have breached the pass.¡±

    ¡°Yes, and they¡¯re nearing Fort Delmiere. His Holiness has ordered us to head there as soon as possible.¡± Urielle replied gravely.

    ¡°What about the monster!¡± Torrn clutched the letter tightly. ¡°We can¡¯t simply leave it.¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll need to ask for help.¡± Niel sighed. ¡°Perhaps the Duke can supply us with men?¡±

    ¡°What about that new order of knights?¡± Emir spoke up. ¡°Also, we should worry about the fate cult. I¡¯m certain they are worshipping a Dead God.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll send another letter today.¡± Urielle took a deep breath. ¡°Even if we won¡¯t be here, perhaps he¡¯ll send some priests to deal with it.¡±

    Regald tapped his foot rapidly. ¡°Has there been any word about Sir Solomon?¡±

    Urielle shook her head. ¡°All we can do is pray that he accomplishes his task.¡± The news weighed heavily on them. ¡°I¡¯ll request an appointment with his Grace tomorrow. Hopefully, he¡¯ll see the value in working together to destroy Reviled Legion. If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±

    Urielle calmly stepped outside, but her knees immediately shook when the door clicked shut. The thought of going back to the war frightened her, and she couldn¡¯t hold back the tears. ¡°Shecoga, help me.¡±

 A Thorny Situation

    Urielle adjusted her shawl as she stepped into the castle¡¯s main hall. She tightly clutched her staff as the fortress¡¯ grandeur. She was aware of the eyes on her; their interest in making her skin itch. Interacting with nobility was still new to her, and although she had many lessons about etiquette, she was nervous around them. Thankfully, she had four paladins to support her along with a heroic knight.

    ¡°Lady Urielle!¡± Halligan called out to her. Her free hand immediately adjusted her dress as he approached. ¡°I¡¯ll show you to the Duke¡¯s office.¡± He held out his arm to her.

    ¡°Thank you.¡± Urielle smiled as she took his arm with shivering fingers. She became worried when she saw his nostrils flare.

    ¡°You¡¯re wearing that perfume mistress Taela gave you?¡±

    ¡°I wanted to be presentable.¡± She replied cautiously. Her throat tightened making it hard to breathe. ¡°Is it overbearing?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m certain he¡¯ll enjoy it.¡± Halligan turned away, clearing his throat. His cheeks were bright red. ¡°It reminded me of that night is all.¡±

    ¡°I see.¡± Her face felt suddenly warm, and she felt the sudden need to change the subject. ¡°How have you been lately?¡±

    ¡°Fine, but I¡¯ve been concerned lately.¡± Halligan took a deep breath. ¡°Strange things are happening. Lady Priscilla¡¯s been more assertive, and Lord Triemiere¡¯s been spending a lot of time with the guards. The guards¡¯ stores are mysteriously disappearing, and now there¡¯s this new cult. Not to mention, we still haven¡¯t made a move against Reviled Legion.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re here to request aid.¡± Urielle replied, ¡°Reviled Legion is a threat to the city, and I¡¯m certain the Duke wants it gone as well.¡±

    Halligan¡¯s shoulders fell at her words, and he gently placed a hand over hers. The servants eyed them as they moved through the halls. Urielle frowned at the possible rumors that would soon fill the hall, but her mind was taken turned to the group of men in front of her.

    A group of men stepped out of a room. Although she hadn¡¯t met him, she knew the Duke from his fine attire and well-groomed greying hair. The young man beside him must be his son Phineas, along with magister Cromwell. However, the man is ornate gold, red, and black robes was unfamiliar to her. A hood covered his unnaturally pale face, and his eyes were hidden behind tinted glasses. Rings adorned his long, spindly fingers.

    ¡°Thank you for your time, your Grace.¡± The pale man bowed with a charming smile.

    ¡°I always have time for an honorable member of my city.¡± The Duke¡¯s boisterous laugh filled the hall. ¡°I¡¯m glad that there is someone tending to the refugees of this city.¡±

    ¡°I was simply doing the will of my Lady.¡± The man chuckled back. ¡°She cares deeply for the languished and meager, so it was an honor to lead them to their purpose.¡± His nostrils flared widely, and his gaze fell onto the approaching group. ¡°What have we here?¡± His twisted smile sent a shiver down Urielle¡¯s back.

    ¡°I hope we¡¯re not disturbing anything?¡± Halligan glared at the man.

    ¡°I was finishing up a meeting with Father Eirgn.¡± The Duke replied jovially. ¡°His House of Destiny has taken to providing shelter and food for the refugees, and he¡¯s even found them jobs. He¡¯s been pivotal to the reconstruction of the slums.¡±

    Urielle¡¯s legs nearly gave out as she eyed the priest. ¡°Is that so?¡±

    ¡°Are you not pleased, Saint Urielle?¡± Eirgn¡¯s voice made her skin scrawl. Even though she couldn¡¯t see his eyes, she suddenly felt naked beneath his gaze. ¡°I figured the Heavenly Warden would be overjoyed to hear that the downtrodden were being care for.¡±

    ¡°It does bring me joy to see the refugees being cared for.¡± Urielle stuttered, ¡°But I haven¡¯t heard of you or your faith. For all I know, you could be a servant of the Dead Gods.¡±

    ¡°Lady Urielle, you will not defame my honored guest.¡± The Duke¡¯s sharp growl made her flinch. ¡°Father Eirgn¡¯s actions have proven himself to be a boon to my domain, unlike yours.¡± His fiery glare made her shrink.

    ¡°Please, your Grace, don¡¯t assault the poor girl with your words.¡± Eirgn said with a sharp smile. ¡°She¡¯s merely ignorant of our teachings.¡±

    ¡°I admit, I¡¯m ignorant as well. I¡¯d like to learn more about this Lady of Fate.¡± Phineas said intensely.

    ¡°As would I. We should have a small banquet to properly celebrate your deeds?¡± The Duke said, ¡°You could enlighten us with your teachings.¡±

    ¡°May I bring a couple of my flock to join us?¡±

    ¡°Of course! Who should we expect?¡±

    Urielle caught Eirgn¡¯s eyes on her despite him facing the Duke. ¡°Our first paladin and saint.¡± He said, ¡°I¡¯d also like to extend an invitation to you as well Saint Urielle.¡±

    Urielle could barely smile. ¡°I¡¯d be glad to accept.¡±

    <hr>

    Priscilla glanced over her cup as she watched master Legion¡¯s familiar move about the table. The black rat skimmed through the financial documents. Magical ink seeped from its claw as it filled in the expenditures that her benefactor spent. His attendant sat across the table sipping on her tea.

    ¡°That should be our expenses.¡± Master Legion said as the cat stepped back.

    Priscilla scanned through the papers. ¡°You¡¯re spending more money on resources?¡± She asked in confusion.

    ¡°Yes, we found ourselves a skilled blacksmith.¡± Master Legion replied with a chuckle. ¡°His skill are exemplary, so we¡¯ve tasked him with making weapons and armor for our knights. Their swords should be finished soon, so you can expect them to arrive any day now.¡±

    ¡°What about the armor?¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ve asked our seamstress and smith to work together to make brigandine armor for each of the knights. However, they¡¯ll need to come in for a fitting before the armor can be made, but they¡¯ve promised us that it won¡¯t take long to make.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll have Lana deliver the order to Sir Danian.¡± Priscilla smiled brightly. ¡°But why not have them wear plate mail?¡±

    ¡°Plate mail takes time to forge, and we believed that you¡¯d want the knights to make their debut soon.¡±

    ¡°True, Kogna and Phineas believe they¡¯re ready to see true combat.¡± She sat up straight. ¡°Sir Danian is on par with Sir Halligan, and his spars with Phineas are quite intense.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re making my ears burn.¡± They turned to see Phineas enter the room. He looked at the cat sitting on the central table. ¡°I had hoped to finally meet you in person, master Legion.¡±

    ¡°We apologize your Grace, but our condition makes any form of travel difficult.¡±

    ¡°To what do we owe the pleasure, brother?¡± Priscilla smiled politely despite the strain in her voice.

    ¡°I¡¯ve come to inform you that father is hosting a small banquet in a few days.¡± Phineas replied gently. ¡°He wishes to honor Father Eirgn for his charitable work with the lower city and with the refugees. Since I heard you were meeting with master Legion, I wanted to extend an invitation to him as well.¡±

    ¡°So, this would be their proper introduction to the court?¡± Priscilla¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°We could even introduce the Knights of the Withered Thorn. Master Legion, you must come!¡±

    ¡°We are honored, but I fear we must decline.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s a shame.¡± Phineas sighed, glancing over at Meridith.

    ¡°However, it would be rude of us not to send a representative. Meridith, can go in our stead.¡±

    Meridith bowed with a warm smile. ¡°It would be my honor master.¡±

    ¡°It would be my pleasure to be your escort, if you¡¯d like?¡± Phineas clasped his hands behind his back. Priscilla tried not to chuckle at her brother¡¯s courting attempt.The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    ¡°I¡¯d be honored, your Grace.¡± Meridith smiled brightly at him. Her hooded gaze made him blush. ¡°Would it please your grace to coordinate our outfits.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Meridith¡¯s smile widened as she sauntered towards him. ¡°Perhaps we should meet beforehand. That way we have plenty of time to prepare.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d¡­ like that.¡± He took her delicate hand. ¡°Are you available tomorrow?" Meridith glanced at the familiar on the table.

    ¡°We¡¯ll see to it that she¡¯s available.¡± Master Legion replied. ¡°Do enjoy yourself dear. You deserve it.¡±

    Meridith curtsied and turned to Phineas with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m eager for tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°As am I.¡± Phineas smiled back. He gently kissed her knuckles. ¡°I¡¯ll have a carriage pick you up tomorrow around noon.¡±

    ¡°Well, then we¡¯d better get going.¡± Meridith chuckled. ¡°I still have some work left to do.¡± She curtsied to the nobles. ¡°Please excuse me, your graces.¡± Prisicilla watched as her brother kept his gaze on the beautiful woman.

    When the door closed, and the familiar vanished, she couldn¡¯t hold back her laughter. ¡°Are you pleased with yourself brother?¡±

    ¡°She is a beautiful and capable woman.¡± Phineas cleared his throat. ¡°Is it wrong for me to be attracted to her?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen you take an interest in a woman.¡± Her smile became tender. ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯ve found someone.¡±

    ¡°Not all of us live in fairytales, dear sister.¡±

    A knock interrupted their conversation, and a servant entered. ¡°I apologize, but Lord Olivar wishes to speak with Lady Priscilla.¡±

    Priscilla released a sharp breath. ¡°Show him in.¡± The large man stormed into the sitting room almost immediately.

    The man¡¯s twisted smile disgusted her, as did the sweat seeping from his brow. ¡°Thank you for seeing me. I¡¯ve heard that there is to be a banquet, and I was hoping that you¡¯d do me the honors of being your escort.¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    Olivar gasped for breath. ¡°But my lady, you¡¯ll need an escort.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll be escorted by my personal knight, Sir Kogna.¡± She scoffed and dismissed him with a wave. ¡°Go pay for a whore, or have your slave escort you to the banquet, for you will not have the honor of being mine. Now leave.¡± Olivar released a low growl, but he turned around and left. ¡°I look forward to the day when he leaves.¡±

    <hr>

    Olivar muttered under his breath. ¡°How dare that petulant child treat me like that.¡± His teeth were hurting from grinding against each other. ¡°That damned bitch needs to be put in her place.¡±

    ¡°Master, how did your meeting with Lady Priscilla go?¡±

    Olivar glared at his slave. ¡°Does it look like it went well?¡± He snapped. ¡°That spoiled child tossed me aside and told me to hire a whore to escort.¡± He chewed on the edge of his thumb. ¡°I overheard Sir Phineas ask a servant of master Legion to the banquet, and Lady Priscilla is being escorted by one of his knights. It feels like this whole family is dancing in his palm, and I¡¯ll never marry into the Duke¡¯s family.¡±

    ¡°Why not ingratiate yourself to this master Legion?¡± Myra replied, ¡°It may help establish you further with the Duke.¡±

    Olivar nodded in thought. ¡°Have a made ready. We¡¯re going to the Crimson Maiden.¡±

    <hr>

    Olivar glared out the windows as the carriage moved through the streets. The renovations were going well, but the sight offended him. How much gold was being spent on this project? It was money that could, and should, be going to the domain¡¯s coffers. What was the point of making people¡¯s lives better? They would still complain about the nobility.

    ¡°Master, we¡¯re here.¡± Myra tapped his shoulder.

    ¡°I can see that.¡± Olivar took a deep breath while adjusting his coat. ¡°Time to make a good impression.¡±

    He stepped out of the carriage and strode confidently into the tavern. Unlike his last visit, it was completely empty. That was partly due to it being the middle of the day, but he was still grateful, especially when his eyes landed on the gorgeous woman behind the bar.

    ¡°Welcome back my lord.¡± Ada¡¯s cheerful smile drew a smirk. ¡°To what do we owe the pleasure?¡± Her eyes fluttered gleefully.

    ¡°Would you believe me if I said that I missed your company?¡± He sauntered over to the bar, eyeing the other women. Lady Mina was nowhere in sight.

    Ada ran a finger along her lips. ¡°Considering our last conversation, I might.¡± She ran a seductive finger down his round chest. ¡°But I get the feeling that you¡¯re here for a different purpose.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re an insightful woman. I¡¯m a little jealous of your master.¡± Olivar started kissing her hand. ¡°I¡¯m here to see you master. Is he in?¡±

    ¡°Master Legion surrounds himself only with the best, and he is.¡± He noticed her smile fade a little. ¡°He¡¯s currently being entertained now. Let me go inform him of your arrival.¡± She turned to the other women. ¡°See to it that our noble guest is comfortable, please.¡±

    Olivar couldn¡¯t take his eyes off Ada as she headed to the basement stairs. She was by far the most beautiful woman he¡¯d ever seen, and he wanted her badly. Perhaps he could convince this master Legion to sell her?

    The barmaids soon had an impressive spread of food and drinks lined along the bar. Each bite was delicious, and the drinks were pleasing to his throat. It may not be the feasts he was used to, but it was easily the best he¡¯d ever had, and Olivar¡¯s envy grew.

    Ada was right. This master Legion surrounded himself with the best. The women tending the tavern were beautiful as well as skilled. He spared no expense when it came to the quality of food and drink, and yet he wasted it solely on adventurers and commoners. What would possess a man to do this? What could he gain?

    ¡°Master Legion is ready, my lord.¡± A sultry voice tickled his ears. He was so deep in thought that he hadn¡¯t realized Ada was there. Her arms were wrapped around his neck, and her breasts pressed firmly against him. ¡°I quite enjoy your thinking face, my lord.¡±

    ¡°I was simply appreciating your master¡¯s tastes.¡± Olivar chuckled. ¡°Please show me to him.¡±

    Ada took his arm and led him downstairs. He was impressed with the smaller bar but wondered why it was hidden. His question was answered when he saw the hideous man sitting in the box with a lovely zymarrian woman.

    ¡°Lord Olivar Triemiere, we presume?¡±

    ¡°And you must be master Legion.¡± Olivar scoffed, taking him in. ¡°I¡¯m not impressed.¡± The air suddenly turned cold as Ada stepped away, sitting next to her master.

    ¡°Please do not insult our master.¡± Ada¡¯s smile had lost its charm. ¡°It¡¯s quite rude.¡±

    ¡°Easy now, dear Ada.¡± Master Legion chuckled, pressing his head against hers. ¡°I¡¯m certain there is a reason, the fifth son of Viscount Triemiere is here.¡± Olivar¡¯s throat went dry. ¡°I¡¯m certain he¡¯s here to negotiate some agreement between us. That way he can use our association to his advantage. Are we correct?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re well informed.¡±

    ¡°Knowledge is power, even you should know that.¡±

    ¡°Yes, it is as you said. I¡¯ve heard about your renovations, and I¡¯m impressed with what I¡¯ve seen.¡± Olivar couldn¡¯t help but shiver under master Legion¡¯s piercing stare. ¡°I was hoping we could help each other.¡±

    ¡°And what would we get from such an arrangement?¡±

    ¡°What¡¯s more valuable than knowing a viscount¡¯s son?¡± Olivar growled.

    Master Legion glared back at him. His red eyes glowed menacingly. ¡°No wonder Lady Priscilla despises you.¡± His growl made Olivar flinch. ¡°You are an ass who relies on your father¡¯s title to get your way. You are utterly pathetic.¡±

    ¡°Now see here!¡± Olivar replied sternly, but he couldn¡¯t find the courage to keep it under master Legion¡¯s dark stare. ¡°You can¡¯t speak to me that way! Right Myra?¡± He turned to his slave, but she was cowering on the floor. He turned back, and what he saw made his own legs fail.

    Master Legion was no longer a hideous man, but a monster entirely made of metal. Sharp clawed feet clacked against the stone as it stepped out of the box. Olivar glanced at Ada and the zymarrian, but neither woman was fazed by his transformation.

    ¡°You may be a pathetic man, but we still have some use for you.¡± Olivar shook as it approached. A claw wrapped around his neck and lifted him off the ground. ¡°Are you worth it though?¡± Its lower face opened, and a bladed tongue lashed at his face. His legs suddenly felt warm and wet.

    ¡°I don¡¯t think so master!¡± The zymarrian woman cackled at his cowardice.

    ¡°Truly disgusting.¡± Ada scoffed. ¡°Girl, clean that up now before it stains the floor.¡±

    ¡°I-I don¡¯t¡­¡±

    ¡°Then use your dress.¡± He heard Myra cry as she approached.

    ¡°Please, don¡¯t kill me. I¡¯ll do anything!¡± Olivar croaked between sobs. ¡°I can make you rich and powerful. I promise!¡± The monster¡¯s laughter made him cry louder.

    ¡°Truly pathetic.¡±

    ¡°That may be master, but he could still be of use.¡± Ada replied. ¡°Having a noble under your thumb could be a boon should you turn your gaze beyond Jericho.¡±

    ¡°Excellent point.¡±

    Olivar screamed, but it felt like he was being strangled by fire. His throat was sore from all the screaming, and what little air remained in his lungs was expelled when he landed on the floor. The monster¡¯s metal foot pressed hard against his chest, and it stared into his eyes.

    ¡°You aren¡¯t worthy of a slave crest.¡± It said, as an ethereal red chain. The pain in his neck intensified when the monster pulled on the chain. ¡°You will follow our commands exactly to the letter. Failure to do so will end in your death. Do you understand?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Good. Prove yourself, and you may be worthy of a crest.¡± It turned its gaze to Myra. ¡°Unfortunately for you, we have no use for a slave.¡±

    Myra cried and threw herself at the monster¡¯s feet. ¡°Don¡¯t kill me! I can be of use.¡± Her wails echoed off the walls. ¡°I can¡­ I can give you Sir Halligan!¡±

    ¡°What would a hero want with a slave?¡± The zymarrian woman replied with a condescending smirk.

    ¡°He¡¯s in love with me. You could use that to your advantage.¡±

    ¡°Is she telling the truth?¡± The monster asked.

    ¡°Yes, I even promised to sell Myra to him for seven hundred gold.¡±

    The monster returned its gaze to Myra, and she shook fearfully. It bent downward unnaturally and lifted her by the chin.

    ¡°How fortunate for us.¡± It gently petted her, staring into her eyes. ¡°You are a far greater prize than your master. Show us your crest.¡± Myra nodded and quickly removed the shawl around her neck. She flinched when the monster ran a claw gently across her skin. ¡°Do you wish to serve us?¡±

    Myra took its hand and pressed the claw harder against her skin. ¡°Yes.¡± She nodded. ¡°I pledge myself to you. Make me yours¡­ master.¡± She screamed in pain as the magic seared itself into her skin. When the pain stopped, the monster scooped her into its arms.

    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Myra asked hoarsely.

    ¡°Taking you upstairs, so that you may rest, and get a bath.¡± Its mouth opened, and its tongue caressed her cheeks. ¡°Unlike this pig, we cherish our servants.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, master.¡± The monster moved towards the stairs and disappeared beyond the door.

    A whimper escaped Olivar¡¯s lips as he rolled onto his stomach. He desperately crawled towards the door, but two pairs of feet stopped him. He let out another whimper when he stared up at the two sneering beauties.

    ¡°How could you serve that monster?¡± He yelped as a foot struck his face.

    ¡°Do not speak of our great master like that you pig.¡± The zymarrian woman snapped.

    ¡°Now, now Cynmora.¡± Ada¡¯s smile held nothing but contempt for him. ¡°We don¡¯t want to break the master¡¯s new tool.¡± She placed her foot on top of his hand. ¡°Let me give you a word of advice. Reviled Legion has no need for useless tools.¡± He groaned as she stepped down. ¡°Do you understand?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Good. Come Cynmora, we should go check on the new girl.¡± Olivar¡¯s heart twisted in shame as he watched the two women leave.

    ¡°What have I done?¡±

 Plans for the Ball

    A sharp clacking filled the room, over taking the soft jingle of shaking jewelry. Reviled¡¯s dark eyes lingered on the parchment in its hand, and it released a soft growl. A dark finger ran along its scratched breastplate to draw its attention.

    ¡°You¡¯re ignoring me master.¡± Cynmora pouted.

    ¡°We have yet to find a solution to this problem.¡± It replied sharply.

    Cynmora slipped into its lap and stared into its eyes. ¡°And that would be?¡±

    ¡°The core element for the Grand Phylactery are magic crystals. Unfortunately, magic crystals are hard to come by.¡±

    ¡°Can they not be made?¡±

    ¡°They can, but they require gems of the purest cut. Then they need to be bathed in mana for no less than thirty-six hours.¡± It chuckled as Cynmora shifted to find a comfortable spot. ¡°This process would require a dozen mages to perform, and we need about thirty of them.¡±

    ¡°So, you can¡¯t make them.¡± She said with a sour expression. ¡°Can they not be purchased?¡±

    ¡°Dear Cynmora.¡± Reviled replied, running a claw along her cheek. ¡°A magic crystal the size of a pebble would be worth ten of you.¡± Her jaw fell open which made it chuckle. ¡°And we need thirty the size of your heart. Do you understand now?¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t make them, and buying them is off the table, then how are you supposed to get them?¡±

    ¡°That is for us to figure out.¡± Reviled pressed its forehead against hers.

    ¡°Pardon me master.¡± Their attention turned to Ada who was standing in front of them. Her smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes. ¡°Lord Olivar Triemiere is here to speak with you.¡±

    ¡°What fortunate timing.¡±

    <hr>

    Olivar shivered as he glanced at the group around him. It was an eclectic bunch consisting of lowlifes, elites, zymarrians, and even oruelians. The one that scared him the most was the group with unnaturally pale skin. His eyes quickly flashed to Myra who was sitting at the bar. A low growl seep from his throat, but it was cut off when someone kicked him in the back.

    ¡°Behave pig.¡± Ada said warmly while digging her heel into his shoulder.

    A shrill laugh came from the lithe woman in leather. ¡°It¡¯s rare to see this side of you Ada. What¡¯d he do?¡±

    ¡°He insulted our master and harassed our sweet Mina.¡± Ada replied, and multiple sets of glares fell onto him. ¡°The pig thought that he could have his way with her if he threw enough coin around.¡±

    A sharp screech sent a shiver down his back. A group of thugs sat at the table with hate burning in their eyes. The biggest thug ran his large dagger across a whet stone, sharpening the clean blade.

    ¡°Then who¡¯s the new girl?¡± The blonde thug smirked at Myra.

    Myra swallowed hard under everyone¡¯s stares. ¡°I¡¯m Myraelle. I a-was Lord Olivar¡¯s slave before I pledged myself to our master.¡±

    ¡°Congratulations on the promotion!¡± the blonde woman smiled widely. She poured two generous glasses and slid one over to Myra. ¡°The name¡¯s Oria. I¡¯m in charge of keeping the undesirables in line.¡±

    ¡°Where is the master?¡± Myra asked, the glass shaking violently in her hands.

    ¡°The boss is checking in on his pet project.¡± Oria replied, draining her glass instantly. ¡°He should be back soon.¡±

    A severe itch struck Olivar in the neck, and all eyes turned to the steel door as it creaked open. Ada kicked him in the head and stood, glaring down at him. Olivar groaned as he rose to his feet, but he couldn¡¯t look at the monster as it strode into the room. However, he did catch a glimpse at Mina and the lovely red-headed woman next to her, but it was the wererats that made him gawk.

    Everyone waited silently as the monster moved towards the box, and it sat down with a heavy thud. Its red eyes slowly took everyone in.

    ¡°Good, everyone¡¯s here.¡± Reviled said. ¡°I will now update you all on our progress.¡± Everyone sat down at the same time. ¡°Work on the Grand Phylactery is progressing smoothly. Thanks to Baron and Temour, Rench and the other crafters are halfway done with it. You two can expect rewards soon.¡±

    ¡°It is an honor to serve master.¡± Baron bowed extravagantly.

    ¡°Thine praise is reward enough, master.¡± The large oruelian replied, but his eyes did glance towards Ada.

    Reviled nodded in response. ¡°There is a snag, however. We are lacking a key component, magic crystals, and we need many of them.¡±

    ¡°That is a problem.¡± Baron muttered, ¡°Production of magic crystals are controlled by the mage academies, and they aren¡¯t keen on letting any slip through their fingers.¡±

    ¡°I could easily make them, my lord.¡± A pale looking man with sharp features replied. ¡°Now that we have a saint and paladin, it leaves me with time to serve in other ways. All I would need are the gems.¡±

    ¡°It would still cost a large fortune to acquire the diamonds.¡± Baron snickered at the gaunt man. ¡°How would you propose we acquire them?¡±

    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    ¡°There are many diamond mines in Uilg Dyhlak.¡± The slender zymarrian man said.

    ¡°Tis true,¡± The oruelian woman said, ¡°The Mountains of Fire and Ice are filled with riches.¡±

    ¡°That still does nothing about the cost of purchasing them.¡± The red-headed woman sighed. ¡°If only there was a way to get the Duke involved?¡±

    ¡°Boss, I think we¡¯re overlooking a very simple solution to this problem.¡± Oria sighed, stepping from behind the bar. ¡°Why not steal the gems? With Skivret¡¯s rats and my thugs, we could easily acquire what you need.¡±

    ¡°That is a viable option, my lord.¡± Eirgnon hummed in thought. ¡°From what I¡¯ve seen, I could revise the designs to utilize smaller gems, but we would need more to have the same effect. Are we certain that there are enough gems in the city?¡±

    ¡°Maybe not in the stores, but I saw quite a few trinkets in the cathedral that might work.¡± Oria¡¯s predatory grin made Olivar shiver.

    ¡°You think it¡¯ll be easy to rob the Church?¡± Olivar spat.

    Silence filled the room. A proud smile came to Olivar¡¯s lips as he watched everyone struggle for a response. Even the pain from Ada¡¯s heels lessened, a small reprieve that he was thankful for. He sat up straight as he eyed the monster in the box. It simply sat there with a claw rubbing against its jaw. Its eyes dimmed which confused him. Was it thinking?

    ¡°It¡¯s possible, if we play our cards right.¡± Reviled¡¯s deep voice broke the silence.

    Olivar stared in shock. ¡°What cards? What could you possibly have that-¡± Pain shot down his back as Ada¡¯s heel dug into the base of his neck. Reviled gestured towards her. He took a deep breath as the pain subsided.

    ¡°The Church isn¡¯t as popular as it used to be.¡± Reviled replied with a growl. ¡°Years of corruption have poisoned the people against it, and our House of Destiny is in the proper position to take its place. Eirgnon, we¡¯ll need to increase the output of charity. Do everything in your power to get the citizens on our side.¡±

    ¡°As you command, my lord.¡±

    ¡°Taela, we¡¯ll need all the information you have on the Patron and any other priests. Give us everything that you have.¡±

    ¡°Yes master, but do you think it¡¯s wise?¡± The madame pouted deeply.

    ¡°We will turn the city against the Church by exposing its corruption.¡± Reviled stood up and approached Oria. ¡°With their faith and trust broken, we will guide their anger towards the Church. Then in the chaos, we can steal the gems from under everyone¡¯s noses.¡± It ran a claw against Oria¡¯s jaw. ¡°We¡¯ll leave that to you.¡±

    ¡°On it boss!¡± Oria smiled brightly at it.

    ¡°The Duke won¡¯t take kindly to the Church coming under attack, even if it¡¯s his own people!¡± Olivar snapped, desperately looking around.

    ¡°Not if we poison him against the Church as well.¡± Baron smiled at the noble. ¡°Of course, how will we get a child into the banquet?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡± A soft voice filled the void. All eyes turned to the young girl standing at the stairs.

    ¡°That would definitely work master.¡± Baron¡¯s smile faded as he eyed the girl. ¡°It¡¯ll be quite the scandal if the Patron is found assaulting a friend of Lady Priscilla¡¯s.¡±

    Reviled slowly approached the girl and kneeled next to her. ¡°Child, do you understand what you¡¯re volunteering for?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± The girl shook violently despite the smile on her face. ¡°It¡¯s not the first time I¡¯d have to service someone.¡± Her eyes shined as she put on a brave smile. ¡°And I want to help my family.¡±

    Reviled patted the girl¡¯s head. ¡°Very well. You can go, and don¡¯t worry, Kogna and I will keep you safe.¡± It turned its gaze to Olivar. ¡°And you will be of use as well.¡±

    ¡°Me?¡± The noble huffed.

    ¡°You will be going since you are a noble. Ada and Cynmora will go as your escorts.¡± It let out a low chuckle. ¡°You may even get rewarded.¡± It made its way back to the box. ¡°We must do everything in our power to turn the city against the Church. Those going to the banquet will focus on the nobles, while the rest will focus on the citizens. If we succeed, then we¡¯re one step closer to ruling this city.¡±

    <hr>

    Urielle sighed heavily as she stared at the cup in her hands. The crimson sky slowly took on darker hues with each passing minute. She took a sip, and the cold liquid made her mouth twist in disgust. Could today get any worse?

    ¡°Everything will be well.¡± Halligan said gently next to her.

    ¡°Will it?¡± She whispered, setting the cup down. ¡°We came here hoping to rally the Duke against the House of Destiny, instead, we find him hosting the head of the cult and now he¡¯s planning a banquet for him.¡± Her nails dug into her hand, and her knuckles turned white. ¡°Why does it feel like we¡¯re always one step behind?¡± She flinched when Halligan took her hands into his.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hurt yourself.¡± He gingerly opened her hands, rubbing her palms. ¡°They haven¡¯t taken over the city yet, and we still have a few days before you need to leave. We should take this time to plan our next moves.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right, but I don¡¯t know what we should do?¡±

    ¡°What do we currently know?¡±

    ¡°We know that the House of Destiny is a cult to a Dead God, but we don¡¯t know which one.¡± Urielle counted on her fingers. ¡°We know that Patron Waldren approved their sect to gather in the city. That they¡¯re ran by a strange man named Father Eirgn, and that Baron Decker is associated with them.¡±

    ¡°When did the Patron give his approval?¡±

    Urielle tapped her chin in thought, then she went pale. ¡°Shortly after the slave auction. That woman must also be tied to the cult!¡±

    ¡°That blonde woman?¡±

    ¡°Yes, which would mean that the cult is tied to¡­ slavery.¡± Tears filled her eyes. ¡°Slavery is Elithis¡¯ domain.¡±

    ¡°You think this cult is tied to Reviled Legion?¡±

    ¡°This cult appeared shortly after Bartholomew¡¯s disappearance.¡±

    ¡°But why would a cult of Elithis appear after the Tome is taken away? Are they planning to convert the city?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I believe it would be for the best to consider the two working together.¡±

    Halligan rubbed his chin, his mouth twisted in concern. ¡°Father Eirgn mentioned a paladin and saint.¡±

    ¡°He did, didn¡¯t he?¡± She sneered in disgust. ¡°That means someone swore an oath to a Dead God, but a saint needs to be touched by their god?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean? I thought the church appointed their saints?¡±

    ¡°The church simply recognizes saints after the Virtues mark them.¡± She started blushing. ¡°For example, after I held off the forces of the Wight King, the mark of Shecoga appeared on my back.¡±

    ¡°But you said saints are touched by their gods?¡±

    ¡°They are!¡± Urielle replied. ¡°Since our world is flooded with divine mana, the Virtues can freely establish connections with us. However, when I went to the Mrythala cathedral and prayed before her weapon, that was when Shecoga truly showed herself to me.¡±

    Halligan groaned, struggling to take it all in. ¡°So how would a Dead God appoint a saint?¡±

    ¡°The process would need to be similar. Perhaps if they drew on enough necrotic mana, they could establish a link for the god to touch them.¡±

    ¡°So, they would need to be a powerful necromancer?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°One powerful enough to create a lich, or even a monster?¡±

    Urielle rubbed at the goosebumps on her arms. ¡°It all makes sense. The necromancer that made Reviled Legion had access to the Tome. While she was in the process of making it, Elithis contacted her, turning her into a saint.¡±

    ¡°Then Bartholomew lost the Tome, but what is her goal?¡±

    ¡°What if she¡¯s trying to cause division between Jericho and the rest of the kingdom?¡± Urielle gasped. ¡°Mrythala wouldn¡¯t be able to stand against the Wight King, and when it falls, she¡¯ll be able to get her hands on the Tome again.¡±

    ¡°And become an avatar.¡±

    ¡°We mustn¡¯t let that happen!¡± Urielle tightly gripped his arm. ¡°Halligan, we must do everything in our power to reveal the truth.¡±

    Halligan patted her hands. ¡°How do we do that?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ think of something.¡±

 Fall of the Righteous

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure about this.¡± Vaera stepped out from behind the screen, tightly clutching the lacy frills. ¡°Are you certain I should be wearing such a nice dress?¡± The heat in her face grew as Priscilla stared at her.

    ¡°It looks lovely on you!¡± Priscilla said. Her smile faltered as her eyes lingered on her friend¡¯s bust. ¡°I¡¯d never be able to wear it.¡±

    ¡°No need to be jealous, my lady.¡± Lana embraced Vaera protectively. ¡°You should be happy for your friend. She may even find a handsome knight to sweep her off her feet.¡±

    Vaera glanced at her reflection. ¡°Is that me?¡±

    This couldn¡¯t be her reflection. Clothes barely hung off her tiny frame, and yet the cream-colored dress clung to her, revealing the slight contours. Her brown hair, which was matted and dull now shined from a fresh wash and styled into an ornate bun. The only thing that hadn¡¯t changed was the small speck of dirt beneath her right eye.

    ¡°That can¡¯t be me, can it?¡± Tears formed in her eyes. Something soft dabbed at her eyes.

    ¡°No crying dear.¡± Lana smiled warmly at her. ¡°You¡¯ll ruin your makeup.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be,¡± Lana said, rubbing along the speck under her eye. ¡°The Virtues have blessed you with great beauty.¡±

    Vaera couldn¡¯t believe it. She was surrounded by beautiful women at the tavern. There is no way that small speck could mean she would be as beautiful as Lady Mina, Meridith, or even mistress Ada. The knock at the door made Vaera jump.

    ¡°My lady.¡± Kogna¡¯s voice came from the door. ¡°Are you ready.¡±

    ¡°We are!¡± Priscilla took Vaera¡¯s arm and led her out of the room. Vaera couldn¡¯t stop herself from staring at the swordsman.

    Kogna stood there, dressed in a black silk robe with golden floral embroidery. His black hair was braided into a ponytail with golden bands holding together. His sword was tucked into a dark crimson sash with matching embroidery. Vaera could feel the flush on her cheeks, but she couldn¡¯t turn away.

    ¡°How do we look, sir Kogna?¡± Priscilla smiled as she pressed herself against Vaera.

    Kogna gave them a small smile. ¡°You two look lovely.¡± The compliment made Vaera¡¯s heart skip, and it brought a warm smile to her lips.

    ¡°Come now ladies.¡± Lana clapped her hands. ¡°You have a banquet to attend.¡±

    ¡°Thanks for letting me come.¡± Vaera whispered as she took Priscilla¡¯s arm and followed her out of the room.

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you wanted to come.¡± Priscilla chuckled. ¡°But I¡¯m glad master Legion asked. It¡¯ll be nice to have a friend with me.¡±

    <hr>

    The soft murmurs of multiple conversations filled the air and it was accompanied by the music of the grand orchestra. The influential citizens and lesser nobles under the Duke segregated themselves into their chosen groups. Each person wore a false smile as they bragged about their small successes.

    ¡°Are you not enjoying yourself?¡±

    Meridith fought to keep her smile on. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that your grace.¡± She said, ¡°I¡¯m merely not used to such grand ceremonies.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m surprised.¡± Phineas chuckled lightly. ¡°Your professionalism gave me the impression that you were used to dealing with nobles.¡±

    ¡°You must thank my previous employer.¡± She said with a faint smile.

    ¡°Even after he fired you?¡± Meridith stared at him with wide eyes. ¡°Forgive me, but I had Cromwell look into you after our first meeting.¡± Phineas looked into her eyes. His cheeks slightly flushed.

    Meridith¡¯s glanced over at Kogna on the other side of the room. ¡°How much do you know?¡±

    ¡°I know that you used to work for the Black Horn Guild, and that you were fired.¡± Meridith tightly clenched her hands together as the large man leaned into her. ¡°I also know that you met the monster¡± he whispered. Meridith¡¯s eyes shot to the small thread of mana floating nearby. She let out a small gasp when he pulled her close. ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through that.¡±

    She let out her breath and placed a hand on his chest. ¡°It was a harrowing experience, but that isn¡¯t your burden to bear.¡± She stared up into Phineas¡¯ face. Her smile faltered at his resemblance to his brother. The only difference being the warmth in his eyes.

    ¡°But it is.¡± He sighed deeply. ¡°As the reigning family, it is our responsibility to take care of the people of Jericho, but we were too focused on the Wight King.¡± His shoulders shook as he took her hands, but his eyes were filled with determination. ¡°I swear, we¡¯ll destroy the monster. I¡¯ll avenge Laegyn, my brother, and all the other people that it has kill.¡±

    Meridith¡¯s chest tightened, and she gave him a warm smile. ¡°Be careful, my lord. We wouldn¡¯t want to lose you too.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about.¡± Phineas replied, ¡°I¡¯ll have Sir Kogna and the knights alongside me. Together, we¡¯ll rid the city of this monster.¡±

    ¡°We would also like to join the fight.¡± They turned towards the approaching couple. Meridith¡¯s eyes slowly took them in.

    The Saint fidgeted under her gaze. Clearly, she wasn¡¯t comfortable with the plunging neckline and open back of the blue dress. Although, it did make her stand out from the other women. Halligan wore a simple black suit. The lack of frills a sore sight against the pompous attire of the other noblemen.

    ¡°Lovely to see you again, sir Halligan.¡± Meridith flashed him with a bright smile.

    ¡°You as well, Lady Meridith.¡± The young man replied.

    ¡°Forgive us for intruding, but we overheard you talking about¡­ the monster.¡± Saint Urielle said quietly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to offend,¡± Phineas said, ¡°But the last time you went after the monster, you ended up losing two of your party.¡±

    Urielle flinched at the noble¡¯s harsh tone. ¡°I admit that we underestimated it.¡± she said, ¡°But the monster is weak against divine magic. Together, we can easily destroy it.¡±

    ¡°And the lich.¡± Halligan added on. ¡°We need to destroy the lich as well.¡±

    ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll need to eliminate it as well.¡± Phineas ground his teeth together.

    ¡°Then let us join, please.¡± The two of them looked at Phineas.

    He sighed. ¡°Let me talk with Sir Kogna. I¡¯m certain he¡¯ll appreciate the extra hands.¡±

    ¡°Thank you, my lord.¡± Urielle smiled, but her eyes kept glancing around the room.

    ¡°Are you looking for someone?¡± Meridith asked.

    Urielle jumped and forced a smile on her face. ¡°I¡¯m looking for the delegation from the House of Destiny.¡± She said with a shaky voice. ¡°I hear they have a saint and would like to meet her.¡±

    ¡°Father Eirgn and his followers will be coming in later.¡± Phineas replied sternly. ¡°They are preparing to present my father with a special gift later tonight.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ splendid.¡± Urielle¡¯s smile barely reached her eyes.

    Meridith quickly glanced around, and she pursed her lips in disgust. ¡°The Patron is here as well?¡± She nodded to the other side of the room.

    Everyone turned to watch the Patron speaking with Priscilla. Meridith¡¯s stomach twisted in disgust whenever the priest glanced towards Vaera. She had to force her hands together when Waldren placed a hand on the girl¡¯s exposed shoulder with his thumb rubbing her skin. The poor girl gave the man a disturbed smile as he continued to touch her.

    ¡°Is something the matter?¡± Urielle asked.

    ¡°Haven¡¯t you heard about the accusations?¡± Meridith sneered deeply as the others shook their heads. ¡°Several young girls in the lower city have come forward with accusations against the Patron.¡±

    ¡°What accusations?¡± Phineas asked, glaring at the priest.

    ¡°He¡¯s forced himself on young girls, using their unfortunate circumstances against them.¡± Meridith replied. ¡°These accusations have drawn my master¡¯s attention, and he¡¯s currently investigating it.¡±

    ¡°Is there any evidence to these accusations?¡± Urielle¡¯s face went pale. ¡°Or is it simply hearsay?¡±

    ¡°There appears to be some evidence.¡± Meridith said sharply. ¡°And it looks like it has been going on for years with the Church covering it up.¡±

    Phineas clenched his fists. ¡°Have I been blind to another monster?¡± He growled deeply.

    <hr>

    The harsh, judgmental whispered assaulted Myra¡¯s ears, and she squirmed under the hard glares of the other women. They didn¡¯t approve of the sheer cloth that barely covered her or the two other prostitutes languidly hanging off Lord Olivar. Unfortunately, she didn¡¯t have a mask like the other two.

    ¡°Take a bite of this, my lord.¡± Cynmora said sweetly as she pressed the small treat to Olivar¡¯s lips. ¡°Good, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    ¡°How about a sip?¡± Ada¡¯s voice deep and husky. Her sultry smile hid her malicious side well.

    A nervous chuckle escaped Olivar¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you, ladies.¡±

    ¡°We live to serve.¡± Ada¡¯s smile grew as she leaned towards his ear. ¡°You may get a reward tonight too.¡± She said in a loud whisper. The other noblewomen stormed off in disgust.

    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    ¡°Are you two trying to ruin my reputation?¡± Olivar hissed.

    ¡°My dear little lord, you¡¯ve already ruined your reputation.¡± Cynmora cackled in his ear. ¡°Now behave, or we¡¯ll have to punish you.¡±

    ¡°We need to speak with the Patron. Come little pig.¡± Ada pulled Olivar along.

    Myra followed quietly behind. The two women pressed themselves against the lord, trapping him in their grip. She was amazed at how the two women could swing their hips in time with each other. It made them look like a large three-headed monster.

    Across the hall, she noticed Halligan speaking with the Lord Phineas. Meridith hung close to the future duke as she spoke. Whatever she had to say made the Saint uncomfortable, and they all turned to their side of the hall.

    ¡°Have you no shame!¡± The shrill voice made Myra jump. Priscilla clung to the girl at her side, her face a deep red. ¡°This banquet is to honor a religious institution, and here you are with three nearly naked women at your side.¡±

    Olivar let out a low growl. ¡°Perhaps I grew tired of pursuing a spoiled child.¡± He snapped back. ¡°So, I decided to chase after true women.¡± He wrapped his hands tightly around the prostitutes.

    ¡°Come Vaera, I tired of hearing this cock crow.¡± Priscilla huffed, pulling her friend away.

    ¡°Was that necessary, my lord?¡± The Patron sighed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t patronize me, old man!¡± Olivar sneered, his fingers dug deeply into his companions¡¯ flesh. ¡°I¡¯m tired of everyone looking down on me.¡± He smirked as the two women groaned in pain.

    ¡°Still, I must agree with her ladyship.¡± Waldren replied, ¡°It¡¯s in poor taste to bring daughters of Gezaria to a hallowed banquet.¡±

    ¡°You are in no position to judge us.¡± Cynmora snapped.

    ¡°Easy now, Cynmora.¡± Ada smiled viciously. ¡°Patron, please don¡¯t defame my companion and I. The King is already displeased with you.¡±

    Waldren¡¯s face went pale. ¡°Is he here?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s resting, but he does wish to speak with you.¡± Ada took Waldren¡¯s arm. ¡°If you¡¯ll follow me.¡± The priest nodded and quickly glanced around. They disappeared into the corridor. A few guests giving them appalled looks.

    ¡°Now it¡¯s your turn dear.¡± Myra jumped as the zymarrian whispered into her ear. ¡°Keep the hero distracted while I get the girl ready.¡±

    Myra slowly made her way across the hall. She clasped her hands tightly to keep them from shaking, and it felt like her heart would burst from her chest. Halligan stood there next to the beautiful saint. Her mouth went dry as she approached them. Her smile was shaken and forced.

    ¡°Hal, it¡¯s a pleasure to see you here.¡± Myra said, trying to keep her voice steady. ¡°Are you enjoying the party?¡±

    ¡°As well as I can.¡± Halligan gave her a goofy smile. ¡°I feel out of place among the city¡¯s elite.¡±

    ¡°I know what you mean.¡± Myra laughed nervously. ¡°Not like out festivals back home, is it?¡±

    ¡°Not unless someone starts a fight.¡±

    ¡°Do you two know each other?¡± The Saint interrupted with a polite smile.

    ¡°Sorry, Lady Urielle, this is Myraelle.¡± Halligan said, his face slightly flushed. ¡°My friend from back home.¡±

    ¡°A friend!¡± Myra sighed, snuggling up to him. ¡°We were lovers, but then my parent¡¯s sold me into slavery.¡±

    Urielle¡¯s eyes went wide as she looked between them. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± She stuttered as she took Myra in. ¡°It must be awful to be subject to another¡¯s whims.¡±

    ¡°It can be, but I¡¯ve gotten used to it.¡± Myra rested her head on Halligan¡¯s chest. ¡°Would you mind giving Hal and I some privacy? I need to speak with him for a moment.¡±

    ¡°Of course.¡±

    Myra¡¯s smile became more natural as she watched the Saint leave. ¡°So, are you two close?¡±

    ¡°We are.¡± Halligan cleared his throat. His eyes wandered over her body and made his blush brighten. ¡°What do you need to talk about?¡±

    ¡°Nothing important.¡± Myra ran a finger over his chest. ¡°I simply wanted to spend time with you. I missed you, Hal.¡±

    ¡°As did I.¡± Halligan gently placed a hand on her back. ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I couldn¡¯t save you back then.¡± The two of them stared at each other. The orchestra filled the air with gentle music. ¡°Would you like to dance?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯d love two.¡± She chuckled as Halligan nervously took her arm and led her to the dance floor.

    Halligan¡¯s left-hand shook as it hovered over her waist, and his right-hand clung tightly to her. His face turned a deeper red when she pressed tightly against him. He tried keeping his eyes on her face, but they occasionally fell to her exposed flesh. Music soon followed.

    Myra struggled keeping in time with Halligan. His steps were wild and out of tune with the music. She groaned when he stepped on her feet, and embarrassment filled his face when he stepped on her dress, nearly tearing it off her body. Each bungled step made her stomach tightened, and she bit her cheek to keep herself from shouting.

    Halligan¡¯s embarrassed face used to bring joy to her. His clumsiness always brought a chuckle out of her. It was a side of him she used to find adorable and endearing. Now, all it did was infuriate her. She glanced over at the other nobles and sighed.

    The women danced beautifully in the arms of their partners. The men moved gracefully with strong, confident strides. Their handsome smiles immediately drew her eye. Halligan was nothing like them. She found him plain looking, and his curly red hair looked disgusting. His movements were choppy. It reminded her of a fish floundering on the shore bank. I deserve better than this. Her anger grew as Halligan stepped on her foot again.

    ¡°Myra, I want you to know something.¡± Halligan¡¯s voice grated her ears. ¡°I¡¯m going to free you.¡±

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve made a deal with Lord Olivar.¡± Halligan whispered. ¡°Once I¡¯ve kept my end of the bargain, I¡¯ll come for you. Then, we can go home. We can be together like we promised.¡±

    Go home, back to that dung heap of a village? The very idea of living in squalor, working to the bone for scraps, insulted her. She remembered the nights she had to go starving because it wasn¡¯t her turn to eat. Watching her parents come home, covered in filth, with a few bronze coins.

    ¡°What about your duties?¡± She countered. ¡°You can¡¯t simply abandon them.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± He stuttered, ¡°But I wanted you to know that I still love you, and I¡¯m coming for you.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s sweet, Hal.¡± Myra forced a smile to her lips. ¡°Thank you.¡± She pulled him down for a kiss, despite her stomach squirming in protest.

    <hr>

    Urielle¡¯s stomach squirmed. The sight of Halligan kissing another woman made her queasy. She didn¡¯t want to watch but she couldn¡¯t stop herself. It reminded her of that night at the auction.

    It made her heart flutter, remembering him press her against the wall. The warmth of his lips stole her breath away. It was her first kiss, and she yearned for another.

    ¡°Is everything alright Lady Saint.¡± Lady Meridith¡¯s approach startled her.

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± Urielle fanned her face, desperately trying to cool herself. Lady Meridith¡¯s smile foiled her attempts.

    ¡°Good luck.¡± She said, slowly walking off.

    Before Urielle could respond, fanfare filled the room. All eyes turned to the large double doors as the crier stepped forward in his colorful garb.

    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, the honored guests have arrived. I present Father Eirgn, Saint Ilda, and Thom Phyreheart of the House of Destiny.¡±

    The doors swung open, but a strong draft blew through the room blowing out the lanterns. The guest muttered as they were bathed in sudden darkness. Urielle scowled and looked around for a sliver of divine magic so she could banish the darkness, but there was none to be found. She couldn¡¯t see any strand of mana to draw on.

    ¡°Do not be alarmed!¡± Father Eirgn¡¯s voice filled the hall. ¡°The war drums echo on the horizon, refugees flee their stolen homes, and it feels like there is no hope on the horizon.¡± A small white light floated towards the center of the hall. ¡°But there is hope. The Lady of Fate herself has set her eyes on Jericho. This city will not fall into the hands of the Wight King!¡± The light flew towards the ceiling and in a brilliant flash filled the room with a multitude of stars. ¡°This is the gift from our goddess. The Lady of Fate has decreed that the city of Jericho will be known as the city among the stars.¡± Applause filled the room, but Urielle stared in shock. It was the woman she met at Baron¡¯s house.

    The Saint of Destiny did well to disguise herself as a simple woman. Her hair pulled back into a braided bun, and a homely smile on her face. The babe swaddled against her chest aided her plain appearance. None would ever suspect her of being an agent of the Dead Gods.

    Urielle slowly made her way towards them. Thankfully, the light from the stars illuminated her way. Several guests gathered around them, the women cooing at the baby while the men laughed jovially.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize you were the saint?¡± Urielle smiled.

    ¡°It¡¯s good to see you again.¡± Ilda smiled back. ¡°I was recently appointed to the position.¡±

    ¡°Congratulations.¡± Confusion struck her as she looked at the child. ¡°And who is this sweet child?¡±

    ¡°My son Terron.¡± She pulled back the blanket. The baby slept soundly with his thumb in his mouth. In his other hand was a strand of necrotic mana.

    ¡°He¡¯s precious, and where¡¯s his father?¡±

    Ilda¡¯s smile faded. ¡°He didn¡¯t make it.¡± she whispered, ¡°He was conscripted as soon as we crossed the border.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t think we met, Sir Thom. I¡¯m Saint Urielle.¡±

    ¡°We have met ma¡¯am. Remember at master Baron¡¯s manor.¡± The young man smiled brightly.

    Urielle took Thom in. The man she had met was middle-aged, yet the man in front of her looked to be at the peak of his life. His ruggedly handsome face made him pleasing to look at, unlike the Thom she met at the manor.

    ¡°How?¡±

    ¡°The Lady of Fate did this.¡± Thom laughed. ¡°She was pleased with my faithfulness and restored my youth when I agreed to become her paladin.¡±

    ¡°Then sign me up for service!¡± The nobles around them chuckled.

    Realization dawned on her. ¡°Excuse me, I need to take my leave.¡± Urielle stuttered. She could feel Father Eirgn¡¯s eyes on her as she left.

    Urielle panted as she moved through the hall. Her eyes desperately searched for Halligan, but the darkness made it difficult to find him. I must tell him! Fear drove her forward. Her frantic running drew attention.

    ¡°That¡¯s sweet Hal.¡± Myra voice caught her attention.

    Halligan stood in the corner, tucked away in the darkness, with Myra pressed against the wall. Urielle¡¯s chest tightened at the sight, but her fear pressed her to approach.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb you two, but I must speak with Halligan.¡± Urielle was thankful for the shadows.

    ¡°Is something the matter Lady Urielle?¡±

    ¡°Can¡¯t you see Hal¡¯s busy. Whatever you need to say can wait!¡± The silhouette of Myra¡¯s hands drew Halligan closer.

    ¡°Halligan please, it¡¯s important!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Myra.¡± Halligan said with a torn voice. ¡°I need to go.¡±

    ¡°Very well, I need to get back to Lord Olivar.¡± Myra replied coldly. Urielle hated to see Halligan longingly look after her.

    ¡°What do you need to talk about?¡± he said.

    ¡°The Tome, it¡¯s still in the city!¡± she whispered.

    ¡°I don¡¯t understand?¡±

    ¡°The Tome of Elithis that Sir Solomon took was a fake. The real one is still in the city.¡±

    Halligan scratched his head. ¡°How do you know?¡±

    ¡°Because we met the Saint and Paladin at Baron¡¯s mansion, before they ascended.¡± Urielle cried, ¡°That means they encountered the Dead God recently. We need to tell the Patron about this!¡±

    ¡°Where is he?¡±

    A thundering boom filled the air. ¡°Unhand me this instance!¡±

    Urielle squeaked when she heard the Patron¡¯s voice. Suddenly, the lanterns reignited filling the room with light. Urielle went pale when she saw a group of armed men drag Patron Waldren into the hall. The priest was stripped down to his undergarments.

    ¡°Sir Danian, what is the meaning of this?¡± The Duke stormed up to the men.

    ¡°Forgive the intrusion, your Grace, but I felt you needed to know that there was an assault within your castle.¡± The knights threw the Patron to the ground. ¡°My men found this man in one of the private chambers with a young girl.¡±

    ¡°Who was it?¡± The Duke glowered at Patron Waldren.

    ¡°It was Lady Priscilla¡¯s guest.¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it!¡± Patron Waldren screamed.

    ¡°Where is she, Danian?¡± Priscilla charged forward; tears formed in her eyes.

    ¡°In your room, my lady. My men are keeping watch over her.¡± The words barely left his lips before Priscilla ran out of the room.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it! You must believe me!¡±

    ¡°Your Grace, we found him like this on top of her. The girl¡¯s dress was torn off.¡± Hushed murmurs filled the hall.

    ¡°My home.¡± The Duke growled with red eyes. ¡°You commit a despicable act in my home, and against my daughter¡¯s friend no less. I should have you executed!¡±

    ¡°You can¡¯t!¡± Urielle called out. She was aware of everyone¡¯s disgusted stares. ¡°Patron Waldren is a member of the Church. Therefore, the Church will punish him.¡±

    ¡°How do we know the Church will punish him accordingly?¡± Ilda stormed up. ¡°He assaulted a child. He should suffer the harshest punishment immediately.¡± The crowd started cheering for her.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it, you foolish woman!¡±

    ¡°We¡¯ll see about that.¡± Ilda snapped, pointing at the Patron. Urielle gasped as mana streamed from her finger and wrapped around Waldren¡¯s neck.

    ¡°Where did you learn compulsion magic?¡± Urielle said.

    ¡°The Lady of Fate taught me.¡± Ilda growled. ¡°Now speak the truth, Patron. Have you ever assaulted a child?¡±

    Urielle looked at Ilda incredulously. ¡°What does-¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡± Urielle stared at the man in shock.

    ¡°Did you use your position as Patron to do it?¡±

    ¡°Yes.¡±

    ¡°Were you found on top of a girl tonight?¡±

    ¡°Yes but-¡±

    ¡°Enough!¡± The Duke shouted. His eyes were bloodshot. ¡°I will hear no more of this! Patron, for your crimes against my people, I punish you to death. Take him away!¡±

    Patron Waldren screamed as the knights grabbed him by the arms. The crowd scoffed at him as he cried for mercy. Urielle approached the Duke, but another group of soldiers burst into the room.

    ¡°Urgent news, your Grace. There¡¯s a revolt at the cathedral!¡±

    Silence fell over everyone as they stared in disbelief.