《Broken Chains: The sovereign's Path》


 Prologue

    The birth of a child named Lakan was a tragedy. He was born from a mistake, his first cries echoing through the cold stone walls of a prison cell. His tiny body lay in a pool of blood, the warmth of his mother fading beside him, her lifeless form still clinging to the remnants of love that had brought him into the world.


    In the kingdom of Ardenhold, where slavery was law and freedom a distant dream, a beastman slave and a human noble dared to defy fate. Their love, forbidden and doomed from the start, led to a child who was never meant to live yet against all odds, he did.


    Lakan¡¯s story did not begin in the comfort of a cradle but in the depths of despair, born into chains before he even had the chance to walk. As he grew, he was exposed to the cruelty of a world that saw him as an abomination. His freedom was limited to the confines of his cell, his existence a reminder of a mistake his parents had made.


    He bore the curse of his mixed blood a beast man¡¯s fangs, cat-like ears, and patches of fur marking his body. Neither fully human nor fully beast, he was something in between. Within the prison he called home, he was not alone. The other prisoners beastmen, dwarves, demon-kin, orcs, terrakin, witnessed his growth. Though trapped in chains, they coexisted, bound not by blood but by the shared fate of the condemned.


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    Fate had already been decided for Lakan shaped by the expectations of those who saw him as nothing more than a mere pawn in a world that thrived on control. Yet in his heart, he longed to break free from the shackles that bound him.


    "Father, don¡¯t you also wish to be free?" Lakan asked, his voice carrying the weight of a dream he refused to let go of.


    Panday, the man who had raised him at his mother¡¯s request, let out a weary sigh. His eyes, once burning with the same fire Lakan now carried, had long since dimmed.


    "I once dreamed of freedom too," he admitted, "but that dream faded long ago."


    Among the beaten and the broken, hope had become a distant memory buried beneath the weight of chains. Yet, amidst the despair, one boy still dared to believe.


    "Father, I will end the suffering of the oppressed. I will shatter the chains that bind us."


    And in that moment, as Panday looked into the boy¡¯s eyes, he saw something he had long forgotten an ember of defiance, refusing to die.

 Chapter 1: A Desperate Escape

    "Unlock their chains!" the soldier shouted.


    "All of you slaves will either die, or, if you¡¯re lucky enough to survive, you will regain your freedom," the man sneered. "So run for your lives¡ªand clear a path for the soldiers to climb the castle wall!"


    The Malzar Empire and the Varkzar Empire had long been locked in a brutal war for dominance over the continent of Frecunder. Amidst the chaos, Baron Louis Capet of the Kingdom of Umbrania¡ªa barren and desolate land¡ªsought to claim fertile soil as his reward for participating in the war. His forces clashed with those of another baron from the Kingdom of Yvarmyr, both vying for control over the contested lands.


    "Cedric, are all the preparations complete? You know we must win this war¡ªwe even had to beg that bastard of a Viscount for slaves just to carry out your plan," Baron Capet said, his voice laced with frustration.


    "Yes, Baron. We¡¯re ready to lay siege to the enemy castle whenever you give the order. Victory will be ours," Knight Cedric replied confidently.


    "Good. Then let the siege begin¡ªfor fertile land and a future worth fighting for," Baron Capet declared.


    The Siege Begins


    As war raged on, chaos spread across the battlefield.


    "Father, how can we reach the castle wall when there are so many archers?" Lakan asked, his voice shaking.


    "Don¡¯t worry. I will protect you. Just run with all your might, and you will survive," Panday assured him.


    Lakan¡¯s eyes widened in terror as he spotted the moat¡ªa small river flowing in front of the towering stone walls. How could they possibly reach the castle? Even if they survived, where would they go?


    "Slaves, run! Grab the ropes and follow the plan!" Knight Cedric commanded.


    The slaves ran frantically, driven by sheer desperation. Anything was better than the torture that awaited them if they disobeyed.


    Arrows rained down from the sky, striking the fleeing slaves like a merciless storm. Some managed to evade the deadly barrage, while others fell, their bodies littering the ground.


    At the front, Panday led the charge, running ahead of Lakan, urging the others forward. He shielded the children from the arrows, his determination unwavering. Despite their natural strength¡ªwhether beastmen, dwarves, or other races¡ªthe slaves were vulnerable against the relentless assault.


    "Alunsina, don¡¯t go too far! We need to protect our son. Ignore the others!" Labaw Donggon shouted.


    "But they¡¯re just kids! Their parents are already dead¡ªwe have to protect them! This is what we planned with the other adults!" Alunsina cried back.


    "Just come back! I don¡¯t want to lose y¡ª"


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    Thwack!


    "Maaa!!!!" Kadlum screamed in horror.


    An arrow had pierced Alunsina¡¯s head as she tried to shield a child.


    Labaw Donggon clenched his fists, his face twisted with grief.


    "Don¡¯t stop! We need to survive¡ªfor your mother," he urged.


    The slaves ran with all their might toward the moat, their eyes filled with anticipation¡ªas if waiting for something.


    In the river, rafts drifted downstream, leaving the castle soldiers dumbfounded.


    "What?! Why are there rafts in the river?!" a soldier shouted.


    "Everyone! The rafts are approaching¡ªget your ropes ready!" Panday commanded.


    Following his orders, the adults holding the ropes dropped them into the water.


    Knight Cedric scowled. "Why are you dropping the ropes?!"


    Panday turned to face him, his eyes burning with fury.


    "You really think we would obey you while you send children to die on the battlefield? Your baron must be desperate if he¡¯s sacrificing children just to save food!"


    Cedric¡¯s expression darkened. He clenched his fists. "You dare betray me?! So this was your plan all along¡ªtricking me into using this strategy just to escape!"


    "Follow them! Catch them again! These are the only slaves the Viscount could spare¡ªwe need them to reach the castle! Mages, to the front!" Cedric barked.


    But the mages, positioned behind hundreds of soldiers, struggled to move forward.


    "Why are you so slow?! They''re almost at the river!" Cedric roared as he realized what the slaves were attempting.


    As they neared the river, Panday called out, "Save the children! Lakan, steel yourself¡ªwe must survive!"


    "Yes! We will survive!" Lakan shouted, his determination rekindled.


    Thwack!


    An arrow lodged itself into Panday¡¯s chest.


    The slaves gasped in shock. A great warrior¡ªpierced by an arrow. The one hope they clung to was crumbling before their eyes.


    "Father!" Lakan cried.


    Panday gritted his teeth, barely holding on. "Don¡¯t cry, Lakan! Just run! Balagtas, Tumanod, Dalangpan¡ªcome here!"


    The three dwarves, who had been shielding the others, turned to see Panday¡¯s condition.


    "Are you okay?! Brother, we have to survive¡ªthis is our long-awaited dream!"


    "Hold on! The slaves need your guidance!"


    "You can make it! We¡¯re almost there!"


    Panday gave them a weak smile. "I¡¯m counting on you three. Make this escape possible."


    "Don¡¯t give up! Aren¡¯t you the strongest?" the dwarves pleaded, their voices shaking.


    Panday exhaled sharply. "You three¡­ it¡¯s your time to carve your own path now."


    The rafts finally reached the castle walls.


    "Now! Jump, all of you! Swim to the rafts!" Panday commanded.


    He coughed, blood trickling from his lips. "I need to hold on¡­ just a little longer. Lakan, you must fulfill the dream we shared. I am proud¡­ to be your father."


    "Father! How can I survive without you? I need you!" Lakan sobbed.


    Panday chuckled weakly. "You¡¯re already a man, Lakan. You''re twelve years old¡ªyou can survive without me. Hahaha!"


    Lakan, with a serious face, said, "Where should we go? This land¡­ there''s nowhere to hide."


    Panday coughed, blood trickling from his lips. "Head northwest... The mountain ranges there remain untouched by humans and elves. You''ll find refuge. Now go¡ªbefore they catch you."


    Balagtas grabbed Lakan, pulling him and swimming onto a raft.


    Panday gave a weak smile, his breathing ragged. "Go now, you three. Live for the dream we all shared. I won¡¯t be there to see it, but I know you¡¯ll make it happen. This is where I stay."


    The three dwarves turned to him with solemn expressions, holding their fists to their chests in a warrior''s farewell.


    Then, Balagtas and Panday pushed the raft into the river.


    Splash!


    As the current carried them away, Panday smiled one last time before collapsing, reminiscing about the happy memories he had with his family and fellow slaves.


    Lakan reached out. "Father!!"


    But Panday was gone.


    Grief overwhelmed Lakan. Exhausted from trauma, frustration, and sorrow¡ªhe fell unconscious.


    Out of the five hundred who had been sent to their deaths, only a small handful managed to escape¡ªdrifting away on the rafts toward an uncertain future.

 Chapter 2: The Dream of Lakan and Panday

    The aftermath of the escape could be called a tragedy, but it was also a glimmer of hope for those who had successfully fled the war.


    Lakan, still groggy from sleep, felt his eyelids grow heavy as he forced them open, struggling to shake off the lingering haze. He slowly sat up and rubbed his temples.


    "What happened? Ugh, my head hurts..." he muttered to himself.


    Inside a makeshift tent made of twigs and leaves, Lakan slowly got to his feet.


    "You''re awake! Are you alright?" Dalangpan asked as he entered the tent.


    Lakan¡¯s eyes widened with worry. "What about my father? Is he safe?"


    Dalangpan averted his gaze. "He¡­ he didn¡¯t make it. Balagtas and Tumanod, too. They died protecting us when arrows rained down on our raft."


    Lakan took a deep breath, his eyes welling up with tears. He clenched his fists and steadied himself¡ªhe knew this was what his father would have wanted. A life of hardship awaited him after escaping the misery of slavery. Though still young, he understood the weight of their situation. From now on, the escapees would live in constant fear, pursued by those who sought to reclaim them.


    Outside the tent, the adults were deep in discussion, planning their next move to ensure their survival.


    "How are we going to survive from now on?" "What about the monsters? This is a forest¡ªwe¡¯re bound to encounter them." "And the enemy? This is still their territory; we might run into them." "Is there even a way for us to make it?" "Shouldn¡¯t we plan where to go? We need to find a place to hide." "Yeah. Tomorrow, we should set out and find somewhere safe¡ªfar from here."


    Fear clouded their judgment. They needed a leader¡ªsomeone who could guide them and make decisions for the greater good.


    "We need to secure food before we leave. And how will we fend off monsters? And the baron¡¯s forces? We need to be more prepared," Dalangpan said.


    "What we need is to escape this territory quickly. Can¡¯t we deal with problems as they come?" another man argued.


    "If we move too fast, we won¡¯t have time to hunt while they¡¯re on our tail. We¡¯ll just starve," Dalangpan replied.


    "Then let¡¯s put some distance between us and them first. Once we¡¯re safe, we can hunt."


    Hearing the commotion, Lakan stepped out of the tent and approached the adults. He raised his hand before speaking.


    "Uncle Dalangpan, that plan makes sense. I have a question¡ªhow long have we been stranded here? And how long was I unconscious after we landed?"


    Dalangpan thought for a moment before answering. "About one and a half days."


    Lakan furrowed his brows. "The Baron was never going to let us live, war or no war. We were never his slaves to begin with¡ªwe belonged to Viscount Beaufort. If war had broken out, he would¡¯ve thrown us into battle. Now that it¡¯s been postponed, he has even more reason to hunt us down before the Viscount learns what he did."


    Dalangpan frowned. "But what about food? We¡¯ve only hunted two boars and three deer. How can we survive while being chased? And what about the monsters?"


    "We have no choice but to hunt while on the move," Lakan replied. "We might not catch much, but it¡¯ll be enough to keep our strength up. As for the soldiers, they won¡¯t enter this forest¡ªit belongs to adventurers. And the monsters? We can fend them off. That¡¯s what beastmen are good at. We were trained as hunters and used as bait for monsters. For now, that¡¯s our only option. We should depart tonight."


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    A demonkin warrior named Baloga scoffed. "Are we really going to take orders from a child?"


    An orc elder and the eldest of the group named Ulganar stroked his beard and nodded. "But what he says makes sense. In my opinion, it¡¯s our best course of action."


    "Elder Ulganar, you should lead us. Since Brother Panday has died, there is no one else capable of leading," a man suggested.


    Ulganar sighed, his weary eyes studying the boy before him. "You¡¯re Lakan, right? Son of Panday?"


    Lakan hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Yes, Elder," he replied, his voice steady yet uncertain. Then, furrowing his brows, he muttered under his breath, "Did I ever tell him my name? I¡¯ve never met him before..."


    The orc elder let out a deep breath, his gaze heavy with the weight of experience. "Very well, I will take on the role of leader¡ªbut Lakan will be the one making the plans," he declared, his voice carrying both authority and resolve. "I will assess them and make the final decision. That is an order."


    As the murmurs of the gathered survivors faded, Ulganar turned away slightly, his expression darkening with thought. His voice dropped to a whisper, barely audible.


    "Panday, my friend¡­ You spoke so highly of your son¡¯s potential, but do you truly believe he can lead us?" His fingers tightened around the hilt of his staff. "Did you willingly throw your life away just to give us this one chance at freedom? If so, I will guide your son"


    Panday, despite being a slave, was no ordinary man¡ªhe was a warrior of legendary skill, his name whispered even among nobles and warlords. His strength, wisdom, and countless victories on the battlefield had earned him a grudging respect, even from those who enslaved him. It was this reputation that made the nobles listen when he spoke.


    The escape¡ªthe raft strategy¡ªhad been his plan from the very beginning. He had fought not just with his blade, but with his words, forcing the nobles to acknowledge the brilliance of his idea. He endured their skepticism, countered every doubt, and pressed on until they had no choice but to accept his proposal.


    With Ulganar¡¯s approval, the remaining adults hesitated before slowly agreeing. Some nodded in unison, while others simply followed the majority.


    "Are you really going to accept my proposal, Elder?" Lakan asked.


    "Well, your idea is the most ideal, and they didn¡¯t propose a better plan," Elder Ulganar said.


    Lakan was dumbfounded yet thankful at the same time. He was a dreamer at heart, willing to do whatever it took to achieve both his and his father''s dream.


    "One last thing, Uncle Dalangpan¡ªhow many people are there from each race? And how many are adults?" Lakan asked.


    "I¡¯ll start a headcount if you want," a dwarf girl named Thorgana volunteered.


    "Thank you! While we wait for the results, let¡¯s move on to another topic," Lakan said.


    The meeting ended, though some remained doubtful of Lakan¡¯s abilities due to his age. However, others acknowledged the logic of his plan, especially the orcs, who believed in Ulganar¡¯s decision, seeing it as their best option.


    As the group dispersed, Elder Ulganar approached Lakan.


    "Boy, let¡¯s talk," Ulganar said.


    "What do you want to talk about, Elder?" Lakan asked.


    "How did you come up with those ideas, young Panday?" Ulganar asked curiously.


    Lakan thought for a moment. "I just figured out the best solution given our situation."


    The elder chuckled. "Hah, you truly take after your father, Panday."


    Lakan lowered his gaze. "Do I? I can¡¯t compare to him¡­ He was a great warrior. That¡¯s why he was respected."


    Ulganar nodded solemnly. "Indeed, he was. We spent thirty years imprisoned as slaves under Viscount Beaufort. Even past his prime, he was still sent to fight as a war slave."


    "My father was truly a great man," Lakan murmured. He clenched his fists with determination. "That¡¯s why I will fulfill the promise I made to him."


    Ulganar raised an eyebrow. "And what promise is that?"


    Lakan took a deep breath. "I will end the suffering of the oppressed. I will free the innocent slaves and protect them from humans and elves."


    The elder let out a deep, rumbling laugh. "Hahaha¡­ That is a grand dream indeed!"


    "Is it? Hehehe," Lakan said shyly.


    "Come here, boy. I shall bless you¡ªto become a warrior, and to be a great one," Ulganar said.


    Lakan stepped forward and closed his eyes.


    Ulganar placed his hand on Lakan¡¯s head and began to pray. "Oh, mighty Gorzhul¡­ Guide this child along a warrior¡¯s path. Bless his body with strength, grant him an unwavering spirit, and gift him a wise mind. Gorzhul, the Orc God, I pray you bestow your blessing upon this child."


    "Thank you, Elder," Lakan said gratefully.


    "I will pray for you to achieve your dream. Now, get some rest," Ulganar responded.


    As Ulganar left, he stumbled upon Dalangpan and spoke to him.


    "Dalangpan, guide and protect Panday¡¯s child. He will grow to be a great leader¡ªI can already see it in him. Some may accept him, but since he is still a child, many will oppose him. They only follow now because of their respect for me. You and your brothers were entrusted with guiding him, correct?"


    Dalangpan nodded. "Yes, Elder. I will do as you say. Despite his age, Lakan is wise."


    "Good. Now, I¡¯ll take my leave," Ulganar said.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, the tribe prepared for the night. A small feast was held¡ªnot a grand celebration, but enough to sustain them for the journey ahead.

 Chapter 3: Clash of Blood and Mana

    The night had arrived, and the slaves prepared to leave. With little to pack, they began their journey, heading west¡ªaway from the territory of Baron Gregor Duvain, the enemy of Baron Capet¡ªand into a vast forest.


    "Did they proceed with the plan, Uncle Dalangpan?" Lakan asked, his voice tinged with nervous anticipation.


    "Yes, they followed through with it. But are you really sure about this? They''re risking their lives," Dalangpan replied, concern evident in his tone.


    "I''m sure! If they execute it properly, we can lose our pursuers. And if we''re lucky, we might secure a map that will aid us on our journey. Since they left before us, they''ve had more time to prepare," Lakan affirmed, though a flicker of doubt crossed his face.


    The group that went ahead consisted of Baloga, four other demonkin, five orcs, three terrakin, and a lone beastman. Despite their differences, they had no trouble working together¡ªthey had all been slaves for far too long to let race divide them.


    Baloga frowned. "Will this plan really work? I mean, it came from a child."


    A burly orc with a battle-hardened look, Drogath, crossed his arms. "Even if it''s from a child, the elder approved it. Our job is to follow through."


    Baloga sighed, still unconvinced. His gaze landed on the lone beastman. "Hey, beastman, what''s your name? Why are you the only one here?"


    The beastman, a panther-like figure with sleek black fur, a missing eye, and a battle-worn body, narrowed his gaze. "You¡¯ve got a real attitude, don¡¯t you?" he said coolly.


    Baloga smirked. "Relax, I''m just asking a question. No need to get all worked up."


    The beastman¡¯s frown deepened. "Name¡¯s Zarik. I was assigned to guide you back to the main group and oversee this mission." His tone was firm and commanding.


    "I see, I see," Baloga said, his smirk widening. "Well then, let¡¯s get this done, C-A-P-T-A-I-N."


    Drogath let out a frustrated sigh. "Can you two stop your bantering? We just finished preparing. We should all be focused on waiting for the pursuers."


    The plan was set in motion. The group took their positions inside the forest, lying in wait, while Zarik stood at the forest¡¯s entrance near the abandoned camp.


    Afternoon arrived.


    Thud. Thud.


    Zarik''s lone eye widened. "Right on time... just like the boy predicted. But to think it''s Tancred, the youngest Mana Frame user."


    A gruff voice broke the silence. "After following the river¡­ so this is where they¡¯ve been hiding. Tsk. They knew we were tracking them, so they fled in a hurry. Hey, did you find their escape route?"


    "Sir Tancred, they¡¯re heading east. There are footprints and broken twigs leading that way."


    Tancred let out a booming laugh. "Hahaha! What a bunch of fools. They panicked! Leave the horses here¡ªwe can¡¯t ride them through the forest. They are still near; we can catch up to them. Move out!"


    Hidden in the shadows, Zarik murmured, "I should go now and inform them."


    With the agility befitting a beastman, Zarik moved swiftly back to his companions.


    "They''re coming¡ªtwenty in total. Since its afternoon, we should avoid engaging them directly. We''ll wait until nightfall and proceed with the plan."


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    The group nodded in unison and waited. Hours passed.


    Night had fallen, and the knights, weary from travel, settled into their camp after eating. Their fire crackled in the night, illuminating their resting figures.


    The dispatch group prepared for their ambush.


    "Mosswick, tell them to prepare the fire and add the paralyzing powder your terrakin group made," Zarik ordered.


    "Alright," Mosswick, a small terrakin with a long beard, replied.


    Zarik whispered, "Orcs, get into position. When the time comes, throw the big rocks we collected. Aim to kill."


    "Hehehe, I can''t wait to crush them," Baloga said, grinning wickedly.


    Smoke began to accumulate.


    "Alright, mask yourselves with cloth. Wait for the paralyzing smoke to take effect, and make sure to execute the plan so that there are no casualties on our side," Zarik whispered to his group.


    They waited for a while, observing the knights movements.


    ¡°Now!¡± Zarik said commandingly.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Rocks rained down upon the knights. Coughing and stumbling, many were caught off guard. The barrage, combined with the effects of the paralyzing smoke, left many of them incapacitated.


    Tancred, shocked and dumbfounded, struggled to move. "What the fuck is happening!? Why can¡¯t I move!? Hngh!"


    Forcing his mana to surge, Tancred expelled the poison from his system. "Use your mana to dispel the toxin!" he roared.


    Just as the knights began to channel their mana¡ª


    Thwack! Thwack! Thwack!


    Wooden spears shot through the air, piercing the knights. The demonkin, moving with unnatural speed, struck swiftly and mercilessly.


    A brief but brutal skirmish ensued. By the time it ended, the only knight still standing was Tancred. Bloodied but defiant, he had managed to kill one demonkin before the others hesitated.


    "You filthy slaves¡­ You dare to ambush us?" Tancred spat, coughing. "I¡¯ll kill you all!"


    "Let me fight him," Baloga said, stepping forward with a grin.


    Tancred scowled. "You lowly demon, you think you can kill me? Hooo!"


    Assessing Baloga Tancred, he concluded that he didn¡¯t have a chance to win against this demonkin. Then, Tancred closed his eyes to focus.


    ¡°Mana Frame¡± Tancred Whispered.


    Sensing the surge of Power Zarik stop Baloga from fighting. Even if Baloga is an experience fighter the knight is a mana user.


    "Don''t be stupid, Baloga," Zarik warned. "We can finish him together."


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate me¡ªBlood Surge!¡± Baloga said.


    Baloga ignored him. Closing his eyes, he steadied his stance and let his blood surge. His muscles tensed, veins pulsing as his body strengthened beyond its limits.


    Without warning, he launched himself at Tancred.


    Caught off guard, the knight barely managed to react.


    Clang!


    Tancred blocked Baloga¡¯s stolen sword. Sensing the stunned knight, Baloga twisted his wrist, redirecting the blade to slice across Tancred¡¯s forearm.


    The knight snarled in pain but retaliated with a knee to Baloga¡¯s ribs, sending him stumbling back.


    Tancred lunged forward with a powerful downward slash, but Baloga ducked, rolling under the blade. Using his enhanced speed, he shot forward, ramming his shoulder into Tancred¡¯s chest, knocking the knight off balance.


    ¡°Augh! Why is he so strong¡± Tancred said.


    Baloga followed up with a rapid flurry of blows, each strike landing with crushing force. Tancred barely managed to parry, his arms growing numb from the sheer intensity.


    Tancred unleashed his mana outward, forcing Baloga back and halting the barrage of blows. Stumbling from the sudden force, Baloga struggled to regain his footing.


    "What was that!?" Baloga exclaimed, startled.


    Seeing his opponent momentarily shaken, Tancred launched himself toward Baloga.


    "That Mana Burst took a lot of my mana... I need to finish this quickly," Tancred said.


    Tancred slashed downward.


    Baloga focused his Blood Surge in his legs, regaining his footing before swiftly sliding to the side.


    Using his momentum, Tancred followed up with a sideways slash, aiming for Baloga.


    Seeing this, Baloga used his pivot foot to spin around Tancred¡¯s back. Then¡ª


    Baloga feinted a left hook to the knight¡¯s face.


    Thrown off, Tancred gathered his mana to his face to minimize the damage. But¡ª


    Baloga swiftly swept Tancred¡¯s legs out from under him, sending him crashing to the ground.


    Before the knight could react, Baloga leaped onto him, driving his blade deep into Tancred¡¯s neck.


    Tancred gasped, his vision blurring. "Damn¡­ you¡ªAugh!"


    With a final, brutal motion, Baloga twisted the sword and wrenched it free.


    "You fought well, but you''re still inexperienced," Baloga said with respect in his voice.


    Tancred¡¯s body convulsed before falling still, his lone eye staring blankly at the night sky, the last embers of life flickering out.


    Zarik crossed his arms. "Oho¡­ You¡¯ve got some skill. Not bad."


    "Let''s wrap this up quickly before the monsters arrive due to the commotion. Take their belongings as well," Drogath said.


    They worked quickly, burying the fallen. By the time they finished, the night had reached its peak.


    Exhausted but victorious, the group finally allowed themselves to rest.

 Chapter 4: Lakan’s First Step to Greatness: The Battle Against the Adventurers

    After burying their fallen comrade, Zarik''s dispatch group began their journey back to the main group, following the scent trail left by the Terrakin using plants. On their way, they spotted a group of human adventurers battling monsters.


    Sensing a potential threat, they quickened their pace, carefully avoiding the monsters. Fear gnawed at them¡ªif the adventurers had encountered their main group, their safety could be in jeopardy.


    Zarik''s expression grew tense. "We need to move faster! The others might be in danger!" he urged.


    Meanwhile, the main group continued their journey west, silently praying for the dispatch group¡¯s success. However, their scout soon returned with urgent news.


    ¡°There¡¯s a group of adventurers ahead¡ªsix of them, positioned at our ten o¡¯clock. They¡¯re not far,¡± the scout reported.


    Lakan furrowed his brow. ¡°Are they well-equipped? Do they seem strong?¡±


    ¡°Yes, they have excellent gear, but from the looks of it, the four of them are still beginners but the other two is quite strong¡±


    A Terrakin with lively eyes and a short, bristly beard, Sylkgroot, grinned. ¡°Then what if we relieve them of their equipment? If their gear is that good, they probably have healing potions, too. That would be useful for the journey. We Terrakin can¡¯t craft those since we lack the proper tools.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I was thinking the same,¡± Lakan admitted. ¡°Back when I turned 8, I was used for hunting. Good equipment and healing potions were a must. But only the humans had them¡ªwhile we were just bait most of the time.¡±


    Elder Ulganar chuckled, amused. ¡°Well, it¡¯s only natural for the son of Panday to think that way. Even at a young age, humans expected much from you.¡±


    Thorgana, having completed her survey, spoke with concern. ¡°But¡­ don¡¯t human adventurers use magic? What if they¡¯re hiding their true strength?¡± Her voice trembled with fear.


    Elder Ulganar chuckled again, finding the young dwarf¡¯s worry amusing. ¡°Hahaha! Young dwarf, don¡¯t be afraid. Even though we are slaves, unable to use magic and forced to rely on our physical attributes, we are experienced warriors. We have been used as war slaves for generations. Besides,¡± he added with a knowing grin, ¡°I have a blessing that allows me to perceive the strength of living beings¡ªthough only to some extent.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Thorgana hesitated. At only nine years old, she was small, ever watchful, and had an innocence that made her concerns even more endearing.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid,¡± Lakan reassured her. ¡°Trust in our warriors. By the way, have you completed your survey?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. From what I¡¯ve gathered¡ª15 beastmen, 15 demonkins, 17 orcs, 10 Terrakins, and 5 dwarves. But why do we need to know how many of each race there are?¡± Thorgana asked curiously.


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    ¡°Well, my father always told me that you need to know the numbers and strengths of those you command to use them effectively,¡± Lakan explained.


    ¡°So, you were taught by the great Panday after all. That¡¯s why you¡¯re quite knowledgeable,¡± Thorgana responded.


    ¡°Well, I want to be a great warrior like my father, so I asked him to teach me. But most of my other knowledge comes from the slave tasks I was given when I was younger. We slaves have to mature quickly,¡± Lakan said proudly.


    ¡°I¡¯m jealous that you were taught by the great Panday,¡± Thorgana admitted.


    ¡°Hahaha¡­ Well, you can learn from the other adults, especially Uncle Dalangpan. Oh, there they are! Welcome back, all of you,¡± Lakan said.


    The dispatch group had arrived from their journey.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re all safe, but why are you missing one?¡± Elder Ulganar asked.


    Zarik looked down, disappointment and sadness evident in his expression. ¡°Vargor died in battle against a great knight when we carried out the plan¡­ but we offer our victory to him.¡±


    The slaves fell into silence, bowing their heads in prayer for their fallen comrade, hoping his soul would find peace in the afterlife. His death left them even more concerned for their survival¡ªalready small in number, they had lost yet another.


    ¡°To honor his sacrifice, we must successfully subjugate the adventurers ahead of us,¡± Lakan declared.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we just use the same strategy we used against the pursuers? That was an easy win, right? I¡¯m too tired to fight anyway,¡± Baloga muttered.


    ¡°We can¡¯t use that strategy now,¡± Lakan explained. ¡°The wind is too strong¡ªthe smoke would be rendered useless. Besides, we can¡¯t afford to lose another comrade. We need to preserve our numbers.¡±


    ¡°Hey, kid, you really know your stuff, huh? So, what should we do then? You¡¯re the smart one, right?¡± Baloga responded smugly.


    ¡°Well, I guess it¡¯s the beastmen¡¯s turn now. Since we were used as bait for monsters, we can lure them toward the adventurers. We¡¯re fast in the forest, so we¡¯ll make good bait,¡± Lakan said.


    ¡°Well, if you say so. I¡¯m going to sleep since we ran here without resting. Oh, and by the way, the map you wanted so badly¡ªwe found it. Take it from Zarik,¡± Baloga said before heading off to rest.


    ¡°Elder, can you ask some beastmen to accompany me as bait? I¡¯m not really close to them since my mother committed a taboo,¡± Lakan requested.


    ¡°Alright, I will convince them. But I want you to prove to them that, despite your human blood, you are just as capable as they are,¡± Elder Ulganar responded.


    ¡°Thank you, Elder,¡± Lakan said.


    After some time, the elder returned with four beastmen. They were those who had been close to his mother. Even though his mother had committed a taboo, they still wanted to help her son out of respect for Alunsina.


    Lakan, we¡¯re only helping you because Elder Ulganar pleaded with us. But you still have filthy human blood in you¡ªwe have no intention of accepting you as one of us,¡± one of the beastmen sneered.


    ¡°I¡¯m thankful for your cooperation. I don¡¯t care if you despise me or not¡ªI¡¯m still going to help everyone. I promised my father, and this is my dream too,¡± Lakan replied firmly.


    The beastmen scornfully stared at Lakan. Even though he was young, his build and mind were fully mature for a beastman of his age. Despite their disdain, they still chose to cooperate, as both Elder Ulganar and Panday had seen greatness within him.


    Lakan¡¯s group began preparing for the adventurers¡¯ subjugation. Finally, they set their plan into motion.


    They searched for nearby monsters to lure and soon spotted a group of wild boars¡ªthirty in total. These monsters were massive, standing over three meters tall, with tusks as thick as a human¡¯s arm.


    This endeavor would mark the beginning of Lakan¡¯s rise to greatness¡ªand the moment when the slaves would begin to acknowledge him as a true warrior.

 Chapter 5: Lakan’s First Step to Greatness: The Battle Against the Adventurers (2)

    ¡°I¡¯ll aggravate the wild boars. Since the adventurers outnumber us, we need to take them by surprise,¡± Lakan said.


    Rhazak, a young wolf-like beastman with an arrogant demeanor and sharp eyes that always seem to watch his prey. ¡°We have a great number too, though. There are only six adventurers, and we have more warriors who can fight. Why not use them? I thought you were some kind of genius after your last plan somehow worked.¡±


    Lakan brushed off his remark with a smirk. ¡°The wild boars total thirty. That¡¯s enough to cause a commotion and draw attention from nearby adventurers. If we bring too many warriors, retreating will be difficult¡ªand you know what happens next.¡±


    After a moment of reconsideration, the beastmen exchanged glances and nodded in agreement.


    Lakan crossed his arms. ¡°Here¡¯s the plan. Hide among the trees, and when I lure the boars, jump onto their backs¡ªaim for their hindquarters to stay hidden. Once we¡¯re close to the adventurers, strike them with the swords we took from the pursuers.¡±


    With their strategy set, the beastmen took their positions, disappearing into the foliage. Meanwhile, Lakan prepared to lure the wild boars. The adventurers, still struggling to kill monsters, moved sluggishly¡ªa clear sign of their inexperience.


    Thwack!


    A sharp crack echoed as Lakan hurled a stone at a piglet, causing it to squeal. Instantly, the surrounding boars turned aggressive, their heavy hooves thudding against the ground as they charged at him.


    ¡°Alright, they¡¯re chasing me. The others should be in position,¡± he muttered under his breath, sprinting at full speed.


    But as he neared the trees, his eyes darted around¡ªno movement. No one jumped onto the boars.


    Lakan¡¯s stomach twisted. ¡°Shit¡­ Where are they?¡± His expression darkened, irritation creeping into his voice. ¡°Damn those beastmen.¡±


    Despite the setback, the plan had to succeed. If the commotion drew too much attention, other adventurers might notice.


    His thoughts raced. ¡°The main group should be far enough by now. I could abort this¡­ He clenched his jaw. No. The potions and equipment¡ªwe need them. And the wild boars¡­ we could hunt them, use them for food, maybe even tame them as mounts.¡±


    His fists tightened. There was no turning back now.


    Lakan exhaled sharply, his resolve hardening. ¡°Screw it. I¡¯m going to finish this mission.¡±


    Baloga and Zarik watched from the top of a tree, acting as scouts under the elder¡¯s orders. Both remained alert, expecting a spectacle from Lakan.


    ¡°I still don¡¯t understand what the great Panday and the Elder see in that kid,¡± Zarik muttered.


    Baloga smirked. ¡°His plan worked before, so I know he knows what he¡¯s doing. But why don¡¯t you trust him? Even if he¡¯s half-human, he still shares your blood. I thought you were a great warrior, but you¡¯re still clinging to the past glory of your race. What a shame.¡±


    Zarik glared at Baloga. ¡°Your race never experienced glory¡ªthat¡¯s why you can say that so easily.¡±


    Baloga scoffed. ¡°Ah, shut up! I don¡¯t care about past glory. We nomads enjoy a simple life, you know? Anyway, let¡¯s just focus on the task we were given. But speaking of glory¡ªyour fellow beastmen just abandoned Lakan. So that¡¯s what ¡®glory¡¯ means to you, huh?¡± he mocked.


    Zarik pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing. ¡°Those kids have no shame. They really just left their comrade behind in the middle of a mission¡­ Letting their emotions control them¡ªthis is embarrassing.¡±


    Meanwhile, Lakan continued his run, leaping from tree to tree with the agility of a true beastman. The silhouettes of the adventurers finally came into view.


    ¡°Just a bit more¡­ Alright, now!¡± he whispered.


    Grabbing a sturdy branch, Lakan used his momentum to swing himself back toward the boar. With precise timing, he propelled himself onto the massive creature¡¯s back, hiding behind its enormous frame.


    The boars, startled by Lakan¡¯s sudden disappearance, turned their attention toward the adventurers and continued their charge.


    Thud. Thud.


    ¡°What¡¯s that sound?¡±


    ¡°There aren¡¯t supposed to be any monsters nearby that we haven''t accounted for. Maybe someone is fighting a big one. Hey! Beginners, kill those goblins already! Didn¡¯t you receive your training?¡±


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    The adventurers flinched as they heard rustling and rumbling behind the trees and bushes, drawing closer.


    Craak! Snap!


    Trees cracked and fell under the force of the stampeding boars. The adventurers, having just finished off their last monster, now faced another threat¡ªa massive group of wild boars.


    The beginners reacted too slowly.


    "Aaahh! What''s happening?!"


    "Help!"


    "My legs!"


    Panic set in as three of the adventurers were quickly incapacitated by the charge, leaving only three still standing.


    Thwack!


    Lakan slashed one of the remaining adventurers, killing him instantly.


    "Oho, this kid can fight! He used the blind spot to strike," Baloga observed with interest.


    "Hmm..." Zarik grunted, silently acknowledging Lakan¡¯s strategy.


    The last two remaining adventurers, the most experienced in the party, managed to evade the boars and quickly spotted Lakan. Enraged by the sight of a beastman making fools of them, one of them, a mage, raised his staff.


    "You beastman! You killed our recruits¡ªFireball!"


    Lakan leaped backward, landing on the back of another boar just as a fiery blast scorched the spot where he had stood.


    The boar, now facing the two adventurers, let out an enraged snort and charged.


    "Smoke Area!"


    The mage cast a spell, blanketing the battlefield in thick smoke, blocking the boars'' line of sight.


    "Shit! I can''t see them!" Lakan cursed, quickly leaping from boar to boar to avoid getting caught in the smoke.


    As the boars charged through, the smoke began to clear.


    Swish!


    A knight, having activated his Mana Frame, launched himself at Lakan the moment visibility returned.


    Whoosh!


    Lakan, caught off guard, barely had time to react. He raised his sword to block.


    Clang! Boom!


    The impact sent Lakan flying into a tree. Though his body was stronger than most twelve-year-olds, he still couldn''t match the sheer power of an adult knight.


    "We should help him!" Zarik urged.


    "Wait! Leave him for now. His life isn¡¯t in danger yet," Baloga replied.


    Lakan groaned as he pushed himself up, coughing. Blood trickled from his mouth.


    "Damn it..." he muttered.


    Then, he recalled his father¡¯s words:


    "If you''re weaker than your opponent, use your surroundings. Find anything that can help you win¡ªor at least survive."


    Lakan¡¯s eyes landed on a piglet nearby. A plan formed in his mind.


    Grab.


    "This will do," he whispered.


    Dashing into the forest, he disappeared from sight.


    Squeak!


    The sharp cry of the piglet echoed through the battlefield. The boars, upon hearing it, roared in fury and charged toward the sound¡ªstraight at the knight and Lakan¡¯s previous position.


    The mage, still fending off boars, flinched at the sudden squeal.


    "Dirt Wall!, what the boards are backing up " she shouted, erecting a barrier to block the stampede.


    "Elliot! Where¡¯s the beastman? The boars are heading straight for you!"


    The knight, Elliot, dodged and countered the incoming boars, but despite his experience, the sheer number of them made it difficult to keep control of the fight.


    "Damn it, where is he¡ª"


    Thwack.


    A blade pierced him from behind.


    ¡°Augh! Cough¡ªshit! You... damn beastman...¡±


    Elliot collapsed, his body crushed under the stomping hooves of the enraged boars.


    Lakan swiftly retreated back into the forest.


    "Huph!"


    He hurled the piglet with all his might at the mage, even with broken ribs he endure the pain. Though only twelve, Lakan''s beastman heritage and years of labor as a slave had given him remarkable strength.


    The boars, reacting on instinct, charged toward the mage, desperate to check on the piglet.


    Lakan sprinted alongside the stampede, using them as cover.


    "You dirty beastman!" the mage spat, fury blazing in her eyes. She raised her staff once more.


    "Dirt Wa¡ª"


    Swish!


    A sword spun through the air toward her. She dodged, tilting her body just in time, but the sudden attack threw her off balance, making her stumble and fall onto her back.


    She barely had time to react before she saw him¡ªLakan¡ªrushing toward her, his sword aimed directly at her throat.


    Whoosh! Splat!


    A sharp pain. Then, silence.


    The mage¡¯s eyes widened in shock. As the world around her faded, one final thought crossed her mind:


    "What did we ever do to you...?"


    Her lips never got the chance to form the words.


    Lakan kicked her lifeless body aside, yanking his sword free.


    After killing the mage, Lakan ran into the forest, the boars still chasing him. He climbed a tree to rest and waited for them to leave.


    After a while, all the boars left the glade where the battle had taken place.


    ¡°Ahh¡­ I think some of my ribs are broken,¡± Lakan muttered, wincing in pain. ¡°I guess those adventurers weren¡¯t all experienced. They must have been new recruits, and those two were training them.¡±


    Lakan climbed down and began looting the adventurers.


    ¡°They had some good equipment and weapons. Let¡¯s see what¡¯s inside their Magic Storage. Since they have died, their Magic Storage is now accessible.¡± Lakan said with anticipation.


    A Magic Storage was a ring that allowed its user to store items for their adventures or everyday life. Lakan had seen them often when he was hunting¡ªor being used as bait for monsters¡ªback when he was still a slave.


    ¡°I hope there¡¯s a healing potion or something useful,¡± he whispered.


    After opening each of the adventurers¡¯ Magic Storage rings, Lakan was quite pleased with the loot.


    ¡°Ooh, not bad. I should drink a bit of Healing Potion to fix my ribs,¡± he said.


    Just then, Baloga and Zarik dropped down from the trees to meet him.


    ¡°Young boy, you did great! I thought we¡¯d have to save you, but you stood your ground,¡± Baloga said with a grin.


    ¡°What?!¡ªwhat are you two doing here?¡± Lakan asked, startled.


    ¡°We were ordered by Elder Ulganar to watch over you,¡± Baloga replied. ¡°And I¡¯m glad we did. You put on quite a show! Hahahaha!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s regroup with the main group now,¡± Zarik said. ¡°We shouldn¡¯t wait around for more adventurers to show up.¡±


    Baloga scoffed. ¡°Can you not spare a moment to savor our triumph, Zarik?¡±


    The three of them cleared away any evidence, buried the adventurers, and made it appear as though they had been killed and eaten by the boars before finally leaving.

 Chapter 6: Plan for A New Beginning

    As the four beastmen left Lakan on his own, one of them hesitated.


    "Rhazak, are we really going to abandon him? Our task was to accompany him, you know. Even though he has human blood, we shouldn''t just leave him. What if he survives? Then we¡¯ll be the outcasts," Gnashka said.


    "Nah, he won¡¯t survive. There are thirty wild boars¡ªthat¡¯s overkill, you know. We¡¯re just getting rid of a child who shouldn¡¯t have beastman blood in him. Don¡¯t be so nervous, Gnashka," Rhazak replied.


    Gnashka, a hyena-like beastman with a cunning gaze, an opportunistic nature, and a mouth lined with long canines, let out a dry chuckle.


    "All of you, don¡¯t say anything that might cause us trouble, okay? We¡¯re doing this because his mother committed a taboo by giving birth to someone with filthy blood," Rhazak warned.


    The four beastmen took their time returning to the group, making it seem as if Lakan¡¯s death had been a tragic accident. However, what they didn¡¯t expect was that Lakan had survived¡ªand had even made it back before them.


    "Welcome back. Thanks for all the help, by the way," Lakan said scornfully.


    The four beastmen were shocked to see him alive.


    Rhazak was dumbfounded. "How did you survive?"


    "Shh! People might hear you. Just go back and proceed with the meeting¡ªcome up with a scenario to report," Lakan responded.


    Rhazak couldn¡¯t comprehend how Lakan had survived. He knew Lakan was capable, but not as a warrior¡ªonly as a strategist. Without another word, he quickly left, passing by Lakan.


    "Don¡¯t ever do something that stupid again, or I won¡¯t forgive you next time," Lakan said angrily.


    All the enslaved people gathered for the meeting, with the main agenda being how to proceed from this point forward.


    "By the way, Lakan, thank you for your service," Elder Ulganar said.


    Lakan stood proudly. "Thank you for trusting me, Elder."


    Ulganar did not acknowledge the four beastmen, as Baloga and Zarik had already reported what had happened. However, Lakan convinced them not to punish the four.


    "So they already know, but why are they not punishing us? They must have helped Lakan¡ªthat''s why he succeeded," Rhazak whispered.


    Elder Ulganar, the oldest among them and the one who had guided the enslaved people through their suffering, ensuring it was not unbearable, began the meeting.


    "Lakan, report on what happened. How did you execute your strategy?" Elder Ulganar asked.


    Lakan explained the plan he had devised.


    "As per our original plan, we used monsters to lure the adventurers. We spotted a group of wild boars, and I acted as bait while the other four hid behind the trees. Once the boars got close to the adventurers, they ambushed them from their blind spots, launching a surprise attack and killing them," Lakan said.


    "Is this true, Baloga and Zarik? Did he come up with the plan?" Elder Ulganar asked.


    "Yes, elder, it¡¯s the truth. We followed his exact strategy," Zarik confirmed.


    Amused, Elder Ulganar nodded. "Since I have given my blessings to this child, I expect great things from him. I want him to be one of the leaders here, especially for the teens and children. He has already proven himself as a capable warrior and a brilliant strategist for his age. Any objections?"


    "No, Elder!"


    "Elder, I object!"


    "Mogdar, why are you objecting? Do you wish to be the leader of the youth instead?" Elder Ulganar asked, displeased.


    Mogdar, a sixteen-year-old orc warrior, stepped forward. Like Lakan, he had a mature build for his age. Orcs were naturally large and strong, but Mogdar''s physique rivaled even seasoned warriors.


    Back when they were slaves under Viscount Beaufort, Mogdar had been the champion of the fighting arena in the Teen Category. Even Rhazak had fallen to him. While all the teen slaves were forced to fight, Lakan had been too young to participate at the time.


    "If I¡¯m going to follow someone, I want them to be stronger than me," Mogdar declared.


    "Hey! Mogdar, even though you are strong for your age, you can¡¯t lead our people," Dalangpan said, his voice firm yet laced with concern. "You don¡¯t have the capabilities¡ªbrute force alone isn¡¯t enough to lead.¡±


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    "Let¡¯s ask Lakan first. What do you say, Lakan?" Elder Ulganar asked, his gaze steady as he awaited a response.


    "Well, if that¡¯s what you want, then so be it. We can fight to determine who is more capable of leading," Lakan replied.


    Elder Ulganar frowned, concerned. "Are you sure? Mogdar is a champion of the slave arena, you know."


    "Yes, Elder. But can we wait a bit? I¡¯m turning thirteen in five days. I just want him to save face when he loses¡ªto a teen, not a kid," Lakan said mockingly.


    "What an arrogant fellow¡­"


    The surrounding slaves overheard his words and began to think Lakan was being too bold.


    "And also," Lakan continued, glaring at Mogdar, "when I win, you will follow my commands without question. Is that acceptable to you?"


    Mogdar glared back at Lakan. "Of course. The same applies to you if I win."


    "Before we proceed with the meeting, each race must choose a representative or leader. It would be unfair if some races couldn¡¯t voice their opinions," Elder Ulganar stated.


    After a while, each race had chosen their respective leader.


    "Since Lakan¡¯s achievements have greatly benefited us, I want him to speak first before the rest," Elder Ulganar declared.


    As the highest authority among them, Elder Ulganar was making deliberate moves to help Lakan establish his leadership, recognizing the young warrior¡¯s potential.


    Lakan stepped forward confidently. "Then I''ll go first.


    First, I want to acquire mounts, particularly wild boars. We can use the Terrakins'' ability to communicate with them and tame them for our use.


    Second, based on this map, I propose heading northwest. There is a mountain range that can serve as our first line of defense. The forest at its base is thick, making it an ideal location for our encampment. Human adventurers will have difficulty reaching us since the terrain is too deep within the forest. However, for this plan to succeed, the Terrakins¡¯ abilities will be crucial.


    Third, I want to assign jobs based on each race''s strengths. Beastmen will handle hunting, Orcs will take on labor-intensive tasks like heavy lifting, Dwarves will focus on weapon crafting and construction, and Terrakins will be responsible for medicine-making and land reclamation. Demonkin will serve as night watchers and frontline fighters since they are more effective in the dark. With these roles clearly defined, we can efficiently build and sustain our camp."


    Lakan turned to the Terrakins with a respectful gaze.


    "Leader Orrin," he said solemnly, "this expedition can only succeed with your invaluable abilities."


    Then, bowing deeply, he pleaded for the Terrakin leader¡¯s cooperation.


    "If we can be of help, then we are willing to do so. Your plan seems well thought out, and to think that you would rely on us¡ªeven though we have always been seen as an inferior race due to our small stature¡­ This world prioritizes the strong," Orrin said.


    "To me, your race possesses the greatest abilities, Leader Orrin," Lakan replied with conviction.


    Orrin, the leader of the Terrakin, was a middle-aged man with joyful eyes, a bashful personality, and a natural talent for leadership.


    Chuckling modestly, Orrin responded, "You overestimate us, Hahaha! But if you truly believe we can contribute, then just say the word."


    Lakan bowed his head gratefully. "Thank you!"


    The other leaders and former slaves were stunned by the depth and brilliance of Lakan¡¯s plan.


    "Oho! That¡¯s an excellent strategy. I will support it, and so will the Orcs," Elder Ulganar declared.


    The others could clearly see Elder Ulganar¡¯s favoritism toward Lakan. Sensing their thoughts, the elder laughed.


    "Hahaha! This is exactly why your father, Panday, always boasted about you whenever we spoke. Now, let¡¯s continue the meeting. What about the rest of you?" Elder Ulganar asked.


    "I agree with Lakan¡¯s plan, but I¡¯d like to add something," Zarik said, standing tall. "I propose forming a small warrior unit. Baloga and I will train young fighters as a precaution in case the humans invade. The group will consist of warriors from all races, and I want experienced fighters to assist us as well."


    The Beastmen were taken aback¡ªZarik, their leader and the greatest warrior among them even back when they were enslaved, was openly supporting Lakan¡¯s plan.


    "Me too! Ah, well¡­ it¡¯s going to be fun beat¡ª I mean, training young warriors," Baloga added with a grin.


    Leader Orrin raised his hand. "I will also support Lakan¡¯s plan since he recognizes our value. Additionally, I want to educate the children on agriculture. The Terrakin are small in number for now, so I¡¯ll need assistance in gathering plants."


    "As for us Demonkin, we¡¯ll simply go with the majority¡ªno need to overthink it! Hahaha!" Baloga said with a carefree grin.


    "Now then, let¡¯s discuss the loot. Report what you¡¯ve gathered, Lakan," Elder Ulganar instructed.


    "Understood, Elder," Lakan responded. "The loot we¡¯ve obtained consists of eight healing potions, six sets of armor, a small supply of food, twelve weapons from the storage, additional weapons taken from the adventurers¡­ and twenty magic gems."


    Magic Gems were rare crystals that could be found within monsters. An ordinary animal could transform into a monster when exposed to a mana-rich environment. Over time, a Magic Gem would form inside them, granting them unnatural power. However, lacking intelligence, their minds would become corrupted, driving them to instinctively dominate others with their newfound strength.


    "We will keep the loot for now since there is no immediate need for them, except for the armor, weapons, and food. Since the sun is setting, we should rest," Elder Ulganar said.


    Lakan bowed his head gratefully. "Thank you!"


    The other leaders and former slaves were stunned by the depth and brilliance of Lakan¡¯s plan.


    After the meeting, Zarik approached Lakan to ask about the incident involving the four Beastmen.


    ¡°Lakan, why didn¡¯t you say anything about Rhazak and his companions¡¯ betrayal?¡± Zarik asked.


    ¡°Well, even if I wanted to, I don¡¯t want any disputes right now. Unity is essential,¡± Lakan responded.


    Zarik stared at him, assessing the sincerity of Lakan¡¯s words.


    ¡°I¡¯ll reprimand them, and I¡¯ll convince the other Beastmen to follow your commands¡ªeven though some might still hate you,¡± Zarik said.


    Zarik was impressed by Lakan¡¯s strategies and sincerity. Although hesitant due to the Beastmen¡¯s belief in the purity of their blood¡ªeven refusing to taint it, even in slavery¡ªZarik slowly began to accept that such beliefs were a hindrance to their survival.


    With the meeting set in motion, their path to survival had begun. Lakan¡¯s commands were slowly becoming the unchallenged voice of authority among the groups. But just as his influence solidified, an unforeseen storm loomed on the horizon¡ªone that even his sharp mind couldn¡¯t predict. A crisis unlike any before was about to strike¡ªa challenge that would test not just Lakan¡¯s intellect, but his resilience and leadership. His strategies had carried them this far, but this time, mere calculation wouldn¡¯t be enough. The path forward was treacherous, riddled with dangers he had yet to fully grasp.

 Chapter 7: To Lead or to Fall

    "Did you hear about the slaves who escaped during the war between Baron Capet and Baron Gregor Duvain of Yvarmyr Kingdom?"


    "Yeah, it''s been the hottest topic lately."


    "How could they let the slaves escape? That had to be planned¡ªhow did they not see it coming?"


    "Those slaves belonged to our lord, Viscount Beaufort. And yet, Baron Capet, despite only being a baron, managed to mess up something as simple as keeping them in check. The Viscount entrusted him with those slaves, and he failed so miserably."


    The kingdom of Umbrania soon caught wind of the news about Baron Capet. Word spread swiftly among the slaves, while the nobles, fearing that others might follow suit, tightened their security. The incident had left a lasting impression, and rumors pointed to none other than Lakan¡¯s group as the masterminds.


    "To think the very slaves we nurtured would slip through our fingers like this," Viscount Beaufort said, his voice laced with disappointment. "We trained them, fed them, gave them a place to belong, and this is how they repay us? What a disgrace."


    "Didn''t you want the slaves dead anyway? You always said they were just an unnecessary expense. And to think¡ªyou even sent Panday yourself" Knight Commander Darius said, his tone edged with amusement.


    Viscount Beaufort let out a hearty laugh. "Hahaha! Did I really say that? Well, let bygones be bygones. Besides, that Panday was quite rude, you know?"


    Slavery had long since become the natural order of this world. It was so deeply ingrained in society that both masters and slaves alike accepted it as common sense¡ªthe strong ruled, and the weak obeyed.


    "But to think that Panday died during their escape... And his son actually made it out alive, I¡¯ve seen that child excel when we are training slaves to be a hunter for monster." amused Knight Commander Darius Helmraven.


    He turned to the Viscount. "What are your orders regarding the escape, my lord?"


    Viscount Beaufort scoffed. "His son? He had a son? Ah... you mean his stepson¡ªthe offspring of a human and a beastman." He let out a dry chuckle. "What an unfortunate wretch. A half-breed like him has no place in this continent. It¡¯s only a matter of time before he meets his end."


    He waved a dismissive hand. "As for the escape, Baron Capet will compensate for the loss. It¡¯s all in the contract. Let him deal with his own mess."


    "But Viscount, the son of Panday is exceptionally skilled," Knight Darius pressed. "And there are a few slaves among them who could be valuable to us."


    Viscount Beaufort leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers against the armrest. "Well, there¡¯s nothing we can do now. We¡¯d be lucky to find them first, but actively hunting those down would be a waste of resources." He smirked. "Instead, we¡¯ll just buy new slaves¡ªthe ones who are actually worth something. And with the compensation we¡¯re receiving, we can afford the best."


    A laugh rumbled from his chest, low and amused. "Hah! That baron¡­ What a pitiful fool. Drowning in debt, scrambling to fix his failure¡ªhow utterly unfortunate."


    ¡°That child is terrifying. I just know that if he ever leads those slaves, he will become a menace to this continent," Knight Darius whispered. A middle-aged man with a physique befitting a seasoned knight, he had overseen the training of slaves for more than twenty years and had personally witnessed Lakan''s growth. "I still remember the day that child defeated 10 goblins in combat using nothing but strategy. I can¡¯t forget it.¡±


    Lakan stood amidst the corpses of ten goblins, his cold gaze filled with resentment as he looked at him. It was during the time when he was training the slave children.


    Viscount Beaufort, however, remained indifferent. As long as he received his compensation, he cared little for the slaves¡ªafter all, the gold he would gain far outweighed the worth of those who had escaped.


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    **********************************


    The escaped slaves headed northwest, deeper into Gregor Duvain¡¯s territory, following Lakan¡¯s plan.


    ¡°Leader Orrin, let¡¯s find some wild boars to tame as mounts. It¡¯ll make our travel faster,¡± Lakan suggested.


    Lakan and Orrin soon discovered a pack of eight wild boar monsters. These creatures were highly aggressive and had formed a pack under a single leader. When provoked, they would charge relentlessly at their target.


    ¡°Lakan, wait here. I¡¯ll talk to them and see if any are willing to come with us,¡± Orrin said.


    As the leader of the Terrakin, Orrin had a unique ability to communicate with animals. He approached the wild boars and began speaking to them, offering food as a gesture of goodwill to ease the taming process. After a while the group of boars have tame and follow Lakan and Orrin to the group.


    "Woah! What did you say to the boars to make them follow us?" Lakan asked.


    Orrin, amused by Lakan''s excitement, chuckled. "I simply told them that if they follow us, their offspring will be safe and they''ll have plenty of food. I noticed that they have only a small number of children, even though there are two pairs of mated wild boars. I assume many of their young have perished, which made it easier to convince them."


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back and show them the boars! I know they¡¯ll be surprised. Hahaha!¡± Lakan said excitedly.


    Orrin and Lakan began their journey back to the group. When they arrived, everyone was stunned at the sight of the massive boars.


    ¡°Wow! This will make our travels much faster. The kids and elders can ride them, and we can use them to carry our supplies,¡± one of the group members said in amazement.


    The monster boars, now serving as pack animals, made the journey much easier. As they traveled, they hunted monsters, fought off threats, or avoided human settlements when necessary.


    With the beastmen¡¯s tracking skills and heightened senses¡ªincluding night vision¡ªcombined with the demonkins knowledge of plants and their ability to communicate with animals and monsters, the orcs¡¯ physical strength, the dwarves¡¯ expertise in geography and weapon-making, the group¡¯s survival became far more manageable.


    ¡°We¡¯re already deep in the forest. If my estimation is correct, we should reach the mountain range in about four days. Just how big is this forest?¡± Lakan mused, scanning their surroundings.


    Elder Ulganar glanced at him thoughtfully. ¡°Lakan, are you really sure about competing with Mogdar? With authority, your dream would be much easier to achieve.¡±


    Lakan blinked in surprise. ¡°You know about my dream?¡±


    The elder chuckled. ¡°I was friends with your father. We talked about many things. He used to brag about you¡ªhow, even when other slaves had given up hope, you still held onto your ambition. The dream of freedom.¡±


    Lakan took a deep breath, his gaze steady. ¡°Well¡­ if it¡¯s a straight-up brawl, I might not stand a chance. But if it turns into a real fight, I¡¯ll have no choice but to go all out.¡± His fists clenched at his sides. ¡°The others might resent me for it¡­ and I hope you won¡¯t either, Elder Ulganar, if it comes to that.¡±


    Elder Ulganar sighed, his expression filled with concern. "I truly want you to win, Lakan. A commanding position shouldn¡¯t be decided by brute strength alone. Mogdar may be strong, but he lacks the mind for leadership."


    The fight between Mogdar and Lakan was set to take place when Lakan turned thirteen. With only one day remaining, excitement buzzed through the group. The title of commander was at stake. Even in their diverse society, the old ways remained¡ªpositions of power were still decided through combat, a tradition deeply ingrained in their culture.


    A day had passed, and the fight was set to take place in the afternoon. That morning, both participants focused on their preparations, anticipation building among the group.


    At last, the awaited fight began.


    "Are you ready, Lakan? This will be an easy win for me! Imagine¡ªjust proposing a challenge is all it took for me to claim the commanding title. Hahaha!" Mogdar sneered, his confidence unwavering.


    Lakan let out a quiet sigh, shaking his head. "Mogdar¡­ do you really think that''s all it takes to lead?" His voice held no arrogance, only disappointment. "Strength alone isn¡¯t enough. A leader needs to think, to understand, to guide. But all you rely on is brute force."


    Mogdar¡¯s expression darkened. "You¡ª! I¡¯ll make sure to humiliate you in front of everyone!"


    From the sidelines, the orcs¡¯ greatest warrior, Drogath, stood beside Elder Ulganar, watching intently.


    "Elder, why did you approve this fight? Are you really willing to hand over authority to children?" Drogath asked, his deep voice laced with concern.


    Elder Ulganar let out a weary sigh, his gaze fixed on the two combatants. "They say the youth are our future. If that¡¯s true, then we must nurture them while they¡¯re young. You great warriors¡­ you are already past your prime. If we don¡¯t train the next generation now, who will lead when your time is done?" He paused for a moment before continuing. "Besides, we are not handing over full authority. I will remain as elder, and the great warriors will share the final say."


    He folded his arms and leaned forward slightly. "Now, let¡¯s just watch and see who will emerge victorious."

 Chapter 8: To Lead or to Fall (2)

    ¡°The fight between Lakan and Mogdar will now begin! Are both fighters ready?¡± Elder Ulganar announced. ¡°No weapons are allowed, and killing is strictly forbidden. You may use any technique at your disposal.¡±


    ¡°Yes! I¡¯m more than ready. I¡¯ll crush that arrogant fool!¡± Mogdar sneered, cracking his knuckles.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready,¡± Lakan replied calmly, his eyes locked on his opponent.


    ¡°Then¡­ fight!¡±


    Mogdar wasted no time, lunging forward with a powerful punch aimed at Lakan¡¯s head.


    Lakan barely dodged, caught off guard by the sudden aggression but recovering swiftly.


    Mogdar launched another relentless assault, his beastman instincts kicking in as he pressed forward. Lakan barely managed to dodge, weaving through the rapid punches and kicks. Each strike came with a forceful gust of wind, a testament to Mogdar¡¯s raw power. Taking a clean hit would mean getting knocked flat, and Lakan had no intention of letting that happen.


    Realizing he was at a disadvantage, he took a deep breath, centering himself.


    He gathered all his Ki into his heart, feeling it pulse like a steady drumbeat. Then, with a powerful release, the energy spread through his body, heightening his senses and reinforcing his muscles. His movements became sharper, his reactions faster.


    This was the power of the beastmen. Unlike demonkins, who fueled themselves with blood, beastmen harnessed the natural energy within them¡ªKi¡ªallowing them to push past their limits with controlled bursts of power.


    With his newfound strength, Lakan shifted from defense to offense. As Mogdar launched a straight punch, Lakan ducked low and countered with a sharp strike to the gut.


    Thud!


    Mogdar¡¯s breath hitched as the force sent him stumbling backward. He steadied himself, coughing slightly before wiping a trickle of blood from his lip.


    Gasps rose from the on looking beastmen.


    ¡°How does he know our technique?!¡± one muttered.


    ¡°Did a beastman teach him? No outsider should know this!¡± another growled.


    Mogdar rolled his shoulders, cracking his neck as he met Lakan¡¯s gaze. His eyes weren¡¯t filled with rage¡ªrather, they burned with excitement. This was a real fight. A challenge.


    Lakan had no plans of slowing down. He rushed forward, aiming a punch at Mogdar¡¯s face.


    Mogdar blocked the punch and immediately threw a body shot at Lakan.


    Lakan twisted his body to the side, narrowly avoiding the strike. Seizing the opening, he swept Mogdar¡¯s leg, causing him to fall.


    As Mogdar hit the ground, Lakan drove a punch downward, aiming for his jaw. But before the strike could land, Mogdar kicked upward, striking Lakan in the chest and stopping the attack.


    Though the kick lacked full power due to Mogdar¡¯s position, it was enough to force Lakan back, making him stumble.


    Mogdar wasted no time. He sprang to his feet, but Lakan was already launching forward to throw another punch.


    But Mogdar reacted quickly, stomping his foot down.


    Boom!


    A cloud of dust exploded from the ground, filling the air with thick debris and obscuring Lakan¡¯s vision.


    ¡°Damn it! I can¡¯t see!¡± Lakan muttered, stepping back slightly.


    Then¡ªhe felt it. A surge of energy from within the dust cloud.


    ¡°Shit¡­¡± Lakan tensed.


    ¡°HAAAH! Oh mighty Gorzhul, bless this warrior¡¯s spirit with strength!¡± Mogdar¡¯s voice boomed through the haze.


    Lakan barely had time to react before¡ª


    BOOM!


    Mogdar shot through the smoke, his fist rocketing toward Lakan.


    Lakan raised his arms to block just in time. The impact sent a jolt through his body, pushing him backward several feet, his heels digging into the ground. His arms tingled from the force, but he remained standing.


    Mogdar grinned. ¡°Not bad.¡±


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    ¡°Same to you,¡± Lakan replied, shaking out his arms.


    Mogdar lunged again, refusing to let up. Lakan quickly grabbed a nearby rock and throw it at Mogdar¡¯s legs. Hoping that it will ¡ª disrupt his charge.


    It worked. Mogdar hesitated for half a second, just enough for Lakan to leap backward and put some space between them.


    But Mogdar wasn¡¯t done. He planted his feet, preparing for another attack.


    Lakan, his arm broken and one knee planted firmly on the ground, gritted his teeth against the pain. His breathing was heavy, sweat dripping down his face. Despite his injuries, he pressed his broken arm against the earth, his fingers digging into the dirt.


    A faint glow pulsed from his hand.


    Elder Ulganar¡¯s sharp eyes caught it immediately. His brows furrowed as he leaned forward, sensing a small but distinct energy seeping from Lakan¡¯s palm.


    ¡°What is that energy¡­?¡± he murmured, his voice laced with curiosity and disbelief. ¡°Is that¡­ mana?¡±


    He turned toward Panday, his expression dark with confusion. ¡°How did that boy use magic? And the beastman techniques as well? No one would have taught him¡ªno one could have.¡±


    Mogdar, poised to strike, exploded forward with blinding speed, closing the distance to Lakan in mere seconds.


    His fist shot forward like a bullet, but just as he was about to land the blow, the ground beneath his front foot gave way slightly. The unexpected shift threw him off balance, causing him to stumble forward.


    Seizing the opportunity, Lakan drove his knee into the falling Mogdar. However, Mogdar managed to shield his jaw with his arm, absorbing most of the impact.


    Lakan, refusing to let up, clasped both hands together and delivered a powerful hammer blow to Mogdar¡¯s back. The force sent Mogdar crashing face-first into the ground, unconscious.


    But the blessing of the Orc God, Gorzhul, and reignited Mogdar¡¯s fighting spirit. His body stirred, and with a sudden burst of energy, he sprang back to life, launching himself at Lakan from the ground.


    Lakan reacted instantly, shifting his stance and stepping back while shoving Mogdar down to regain control.


    However, as an orc known for his immense strength, Mogdar planted his feet firmly and began pushing back, slowly rising despite Lakan¡¯s effort to keep him pinned.


    Frustration built within Lakan¡ªhe was nearly out of energy and needed to end the fight.


    With a decisive move, he twisted his body and leaped onto Mogdar¡¯s back, locking in a rear naked choke. To prevent Mogdar from using his superior strength to escape, Lakan turned to the side, forcing Mogdar onto his back.


    Gritting his teeth, Lakan squeezed with all his remaining strength, tightening his hold around Mogdar¡¯s neck. He locked his arms in place, ensuring Mogdar couldn¡¯t pry them free.


    Within moments, Mogdar¡¯s resistance faded, and his body went limp as unconsciousness took him.


    ¡°Stop! The fights over¡ªLakan wins!¡±


    Hearing the call, Lakan released his grip and collapsed onto his back, breathing heavily as he lay still, catching his breath.


    The crowd fell into stunned silence, the weight of the unexpected outcome settling over them like a heavy fog. Even the great warriors Zarik and Baloga, seasoned fighters who had seen countless battles, were left speechless.


    They had expected Mogdar to win. How could he not? He was a champion of the slave fighting arenas'' teen category in Viscount Beaufort¡¯s territory, hardened by brutal combat. Among their group, even as a teenager, he was the strongest¡ªunrivaled in sheer power and skill.


    And yet, here he lay, defeated.


    By a boy who had just turned thirteen.


    The fight ended with Lakan¡¯s victory, but he sustained more severe injuries¡ªa broken arm and bruises all over his body¡ªwhile Mogdar only suffered minor injuries.


    Exhausted, the two fighters slept early in the afternoon and did not wake until the next day.


    ¡°Augh, my body aches.¡± Blurp ¡°I¡¯m hungry,¡± Lakan muttered as he got up, craving something to eat.


    Lakan wandered around the encampment in search of food when he spotted Mogdar eating with the other orcs.


    ¡°What are you staring at?¡± Mogdar asked.


    ¡°Quite arrogant for someone who lost. Don¡¯t forget our agreement,¡± Lakan responded.


    The two stared at each other for a while, the tension in the air making the nearby orcs uneasy as they prepared to intervene if another fight broke out.


    ¡°Well, I was the one who challenged you and got defeated. I acknowledge you as the leader,¡± Mogdar said.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll work you to the bone,¡± Lakan replied.


    Lakan then asked, ¡°Can I eat with you all? I¡¯m starving.¡± Without waiting for a response, he sat down and began eating.


    As Lakan and the orcs conversed over their meal, a group of beastmen suddenly appeared, searching for him.


    ¡°Lakan! Where did you learn our technique? A filthy half-human like you shouldn¡¯t be using it!¡± a senior beastman growled, his voice laced with disdain for Lakan¡¯s very existence.


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business,¡± Lakan replied coldly.


    ¡°Come! The elder has summoned you.¡±


    Lakan already knew what this was about, but without resistance, he proceeded to meet Elder Ulganar.


    ¡°Lakan, how are you? Are your injuries healing well?¡± Elder Ulganar asked.


    ¡°Elder, let¡¯s just get to the point. They brought me here to question me about my technique, right?¡± Lakan said.


    ¡°Well, you really are a sharp one,¡± Elder Ulganar said, amused.


    Lakan glanced at the beastmen, his gaze unwavering. ¡°And what if I refuse to answer?¡±


    ¡°You mongrel!¡± one of the beastmen spat.


    Ignoring the outburst, Lakan turned to Elder Ulganar. ¡°Elder, I have a suggestion. Why don¡¯t we exile the beastmen? They¡¯re too proud of their past glory, clinging to the belief that it still holds weight. They¡¯ll only be a hindrance when we reach our destination and build a home there.¡±


    The beastman was enraged by Lakan¡¯s statement.


    Zarik, standing beside Elder Ulganar, looked at Lakan in confusion. Then, he suddenly remembered¡ªLakan had spared Rhazak and his company despite their betrayal.


    ¡°Beastmen, even though you are a prideful race, you should at least know shame,¡± Zarik said, his voice firm. ¡°Do you even realize that during Lakan and Rhazak¡¯s last expedition, they abandoned him? Do you really think you¡¯d still be here if Lakan had told the others about it?¡±


    The beastmen were stunned by the sudden revelation. Their eyes shifted toward Rhazak, who had been silently following them, curious about how Lakan had acquired their technique.


    Rhazak''s face paled with fear and confusion.


    ¡°Why are you all looking at me?¡± he snapped. ¡°You hated him too¡ªfor such a petty reason. I was just doing you all a favor.¡±


    Shame washed over the beastmen. They had harbored resentment toward Lakan despite the fact that they had benefited from joining the expedition. And even after Rhazak¡¯s betrayal, Lakan had chosen to forgive him.


    As the conversation continued, a divide began to form among the beastmen. On one side were the elders and traditionalists who still clung to their past beliefs. On the other were those willing to accept Lakan¡ªnot just as one of them, but as their leader.

 Chapter 9: Monster Wave Defense: Battle Plans for Survival

    With the help of the boars, the group finally arrived at the foot of the mountain range.


    "Woah! Now that we''re up close, these mountains look even more massive!"


    "This area has plenty of trees and a river nearby. It''s the perfect place to build our home."


    "It''s thanks to us beastmen that we made it this far into the forest. Avoiding monsters was only possible because of our scouts and abilities. Without us, we never would¡¯ve reached this deep."


    Elder Ulganar stepped forward, his voice firm. "Everyone played a role in getting us here. But don¡¯t forget¡ªour real work begins now. Let''s start building our home! But first, we should have a feast to celebrate."


    "Since it¡¯s almost nighttime, we should eat quickly. We don¡¯t want to attract monsters with too much noise," Lakan said.


    Elder Ulganar turned to Lakan, his expression serious. "Lakan, I need to speak with you. Come to my tent at midnight."


    Lakan whispered to himself, "What could be so important for the Elder to be this serious?" Then he nodded. "I¡¯ll be there, Elder."


    As the first day came to an end, the children, women, and elders had already gone to sleep. Meanwhile, the warriors of each race had gathered at Elder Ulganar¡¯s call.


    "Is everyone here?" Elder Ulganar asked.


    "Yes, Elder! All twenty warriors in our group are present. This is our only fighting force, as we prioritized getting the children and women to safety during the escape," Thorgana reported.


    Elder Ulganar¡¯s eyes narrowed as he noticed her. "Why are you still awake, kid? I thought I asked Dalangpan to handle this."


    "Sir Dalangpan passed the task to me since he was busy making stone weapons. Though I don¡¯t know why he¡¯s making them now. When I went to check, he was already asleep¡ªI guess he was exhausted from crafting," Thorgana explained.


    "You should rest as well, child. Your task is done. Thank you for your service," Elder Ulganar said.


    Thorgana hesitated, clearly anxious. She wanted to stay and be part of the meeting.


    Lakan noticed her concern.


    "Elder, I want her to stay," Lakan said. "She¡¯s capable when it comes to managing people. She was the one who surveyed our group and gathered valuable information about our numbers and strengths. That¡¯s why I believe she should be involved in future meetings as well."


    Elder Ulganar studied Thorgana for a moment before nodding. "If you vouch for her, then I¡¯ll entrust her with a role in our group. What is your name, young one?"


    "I¡¯m Thorgana of the dwarf race. Thank you for allowing me to be of help, Elder," she said respectfully.


    With that, the meeting began. The topic, however, was terrifying.


    "Since we are all gathered here, some of you¡ªespecially the beastmen and demonkin¡ªmay already know what I am about to say," Elder Ulganar said, his expression grave.


    The younger ones, sensing the weight in his voice, grew uneasy. The experienced warriors, however, remained silent, already expecting the news.


    "The children and teens may not be aware of this, or may have never faced it firsthand," Ulganar continued. "But we will soon be facing a monster wave."


    Some of the younger warriors had heard the term before but had no real experience dealing with it. A monster wave was a one-week event that occurred once every year, during which monsters became extremely aggressive, attacking anything in sight.


    Across the continent, entire territories prepared for this event in advance. If left unchecked, it could lead to catastrophe.


    "A monster wave is a catastrophic event. If we don¡¯t prepare, we¡¯ll suffer massive losses. That¡¯s why I want us to plan quickly and make all the necessary preparations to minimize casualties. If anyone has suggestions, raise your hand," Elder Ulganar announced.


    "I want to train the warriors on how to properly fight monsters. I''ve experienced this before. We should also equip them with the armor we looted from the knights and adventurers," Zarik suggested.


    "Me too!" Baloga added.


    "Alright, I¡¯ll leave that to you two since you¡¯re our best warriors. The red moon is already up, which means we have five days to prepare. We need all hands on deck. What about the rest? Any suggestions?" Elder Ulganar asked.


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    "Elder, we definitely need to fortify our base against the monster attack. I suggest that all the orcs cut down trees for barricades," Drogath proposed.


    "Good. Barricades are essential. Since they¡¯ll be our first line of defense, they need to be sturdy," Elder Ulganar agreed.


    "Umm¡­ I have a suggestion," Thorgana said hesitantly, raising her hand.


    The others turned to her in surprise. A young and timid dwarf, she wasn¡¯t someone they expected to provide a strategic idea.


    "What is it, young lady?" Elder Ulganar asked.


    "I suggest we melt down the swords and forge spears instead," Thorgana said.


    The experienced warriors were momentarily stunned¡ªnot because it was a bad idea, but because it was brilliant.


    "That¡¯s a great idea! We need reach when fighting from behind the barricades, and swords are poorly suited for that. Well done, Thorgana!" Zarik praised.


    Thorgana flushed at the unexpected compliment. A moment of silence followed as all eyes turned to Lakan, waiting for his suggestion.


    Lakan, lost in thought as he sorted through a flood of ideas, lifted his head and blinked in confusion.


    "Umm¡­ why are you all staring at me?" he asked.


    "We¡¯re waiting for your suggestion," Elder Ulganar said.


    "I have a few," Lakan replied.


    "Then hurry up and say them! You¡¯re making us wait," Baloga scoffed.


    Lakan took a deep breath and spoke with authority. "First, all of your ideas are great. Not only should we consider them¡ªwe must implement them. Now, for my plan: I suggest digging a moat and planting spears at the bottom. It¡¯s a tried-and-true defensive strategy."


    Baloga frowned. "We don¡¯t have time for that."


    Lakan smirked. "Did you forget? We have the best diggers in our group."


    The others looked at each other in confusion. Lakan chuckled at their puzzled expressions.


    "I¡¯m talking about the boars," he clarified.


    "Ahh! That¡¯s genius! That¡¯s my man!" Baloga cheered.


    "If the boars handle the digging, we can finish the moat in no time."


    "A solid plan¡ªtaking advantage of the boars'' abilities is smart."


    The group quickly acknowledged the effectiveness of the strategy. However, they were still expecting more ideas from Lakan.


    From the sidelines, Orrin, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. "Is that all you¡¯ve got, Lakan?"


    Lakan shook his head. "No. I also suggest positioning our base at the foot of the mountain to take advantage of the high ground. Additionally, I want a portion of the logs the orcs are cutting for the barricades set aside¡ªwe can roll them down the slope if we get cornered. It¡¯ll help us regain momentum in battle."


    Elder Ulganar nodded. "You really think outside the box, Lakan. Now, what about the others?"


    Lakan raised his hand again. "Elder, I¡¯m not done yet."


    Elder Ulganar raised a brow. "You have more? Then proceed."


    Lakan turned to Orrin. "Leader Orrin, as I mentioned before, the terrakins will be the backbone of building our home here. But I want to ask¡ªwould it be possible to establish an animal communication network?"


    Orrin blinked, a faint blush creeping onto his face from the compliment. "What do you mean?"


    Lakan smirked about how easily embarrassed terrakin is. "A system where animals relay orders or information. Ideally, using birds or insects."


    Orrin¡¯s eyes widened. "Ahh! I see where you''re going with this!"


    Lakan nodded. "From what I heard back when we were imprisoned, monster waves come in multiple waves over the course of a week. That¡¯s why we need an early warning system to counter them by using animals and make the beastman search for the base of the monsters¡ªand also do paralyzing powder that was use on knights work on monsters?."


    Orrin replied, "Yes, that was their original purpose. Since we Terrakin are often targeted by monsters, we created the powder to repel or kill them. But we can¡¯t produce a large amount. Even with help gathering the ingredients, it still takes a day or two to prepare enough for a week''s use. Plus, we need to consider the numbers of monsters in the waves."


    Lakan nodded. "That¡¯s alright. Just make as much as you can. As for the dwarves, they''re still going to make the weapons, but I also want them to build a pillbox below the base. Since they are skilled in construction, they can ensure the pillbox won''t collapse because of the monster. That¡¯s all the strategies that I¡¯ve come up"


    The meeting members was stunned because for a small amount of time thinking Lakan come up with several strategy. The members tried to think of a mishap for the strategize Lakan but they could not think of some.


    ¡°You really are a brilliant strategist, Lakan! How do you come up with such clever plans?¡±


    ¡°Ah! You overestimate me,¡± Lakan said with a chuckle. ¡°I¡¯ve been influenced by my father¡¯s brilliant mind¡ªhe¡¯s a great strategist. I¡¯m still not at his level, but I¡¯ve helped him with tasks assigned by the Viscount¡¯s soldiers. I guess being in that environment really shaped me.¡±


    ¡°Nah! Even with that, a normal person couldn¡¯t develop a mind like yours. You really are a genius.¡±


    The meeting members, witnessing Lakan¡¯s brilliance, acknowledged his plan and began to trust him as the leader of their group.


    "I guess I¡¯m placing my fate in a reliable man. Even in a child¡¯s body, he¡¯s already a man," Elder Ulganar whispered, his voice tinged with admiration.


    A smirk crossed his lips as he watched the group quickly accept Lakan as their commander.


    "With this, only a few of the beastmen will still try to sabotage Lakan¡¯s succession as Commander," he muttered, his expression darkening. "Ah! Why do they still refuse to trust my judgment?"


    "With this, the plan we¡¯ve come up with is finalized," Elder Ulganar declared. "Tomorrow, Zarik, Thorgana, Drogath, and Lakan will take charge of their respective strategies. Does anyone have any suggestions to add?"


    "For those who won¡¯t be fighting, we should still arm ourselves just in case," one of the members added. "We¡¯ll also hunt for animals to secure food. That should be all."


    The meeting was a success, the plan firmly set in motion. But beyond the flickering torchlight, in the silent corners where shadows stretched long, unseen eyes watched and unheard voices whispered. Decisions had been made, but not all had been included. And in the absence of those left behind, something unseen stirred¡ªa ripple in still water, a shift in the air. The true consequences of this night had yet to unfold.

 Chapter 10: Monster Wave Defense: Battle Plans for Survival (2)

    The first day of their five©\day preparation had arrived.


    "Orcs, listen up!" a voice called out. "As you all know, we had a meeting at midnight, and I was tasked with preparing logs and building a barrier. There will be an announcement at noon, so make sure everyone attends. Now, let¡¯s get to work!"


    The orcs set to work while the dwarves had already begun. Dalangpan, fully aware that the monster wave was coming, wasted no time.


    "There¡¯s an additional task for us," he announced. "My nephew, Lakan, has asked the dwarves to construct a pillbox. Since our numbers are small, continue making weapons while I have the orcs help with construction."


    "Yes! Elder brother!" the three remaining dwarves replied with a nod. Meanwhile, Thorgana busied herself recruiting other children to help by bringing refreshments and running errands for the workers.


    "Alright, everyone! Since the workers are already busy, let¡¯s do our part to make things easier for them," Thorgana said enthusiastically. "Even though we¡¯re still kids, we can help in our own way!"


    The children eagerly joined in, assisting the workers however they could.


    "Oh! Thank you, kid. Is this citricus juice?" Orrin asked as he took a drink.


    "Yes, sir! We found citricus fruit in the nearby forest and made juice for the workers," a young beastman replied proudly.


    Meanwhile, Orrin and the other Terrakins began setting up a network of animals, while the rest followed Lakan to start digging the moat and scouting for a temporary base where the group could evacuate during the monster wave.


    "I think this spot would be ideal for our base," Lakan said thoughtfully as he surveyed the area. "It¡¯s close to our current encampment and steep enough to be difficult to climb. There''s a small flat area at the top, and to the right we have a natural stone wall from the neighboring mountain that could serve as an impenetrable barrier. That means we can focus on fortifying our barricade on the left side. What do you think, Mosswick?"


    "Umm¡­ yes," Mosswick replied, a little overwhelmed by Lakan¡¯s quick analysis.


    "Then let¡¯s make this our base," Lakan decided. "I¡¯ll go inform Elder Ulganar so we can start evacuating here after his announcement. Meanwhile, you should begin digging the moat parallel to the base¡ªmake sure it extends slightly past the stone wall on the right and a little beyond the barricade on the left."


    "Alright, I¡¯ll do my best. Leader Orrin told me to follow your orders," Mosswick said determinedly.


    As Lakan made his way to Elder Ulganar, he spotted Zarik and Baloga training the warriors. A sudden realization struck him¡ªhe had forgotten to mention something important during the meeting.


    "Ah, I just remembered!" he muttered before calling out, "Sir Zarik! Sir Baloga! Can I talk to you for a moment?"


    Hearing their names, the two warriors paused their training and approached him.


    "What is it, Lakan?" Zarik asked.


    "There¡¯s something I forgot to mention during the meeting," Lakan admitted. "I have an additional task for both of you." He had been so focused on battle strategies that he¡¯d overlooked a crucial part of the preparations.


    "Will the monsters attack and eat each other when the monster wave happens?" Lakan asked, realizing he didn¡¯t fully understand the behavior of the incoming threat.


    "No," Baloga replied. "They don¡¯t turn on each other. Instead, they band together in a chain reaction, drawing in more monsters from farther away and then attack at night. We¡¯re not sure why, but once they gather, they¡¯ll devour any animals or living beings in their path."


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    "Ah, I see," Lakan said, thinking quickly. "Then I have a task for you and your trainees. I want the beastmen to hunt monsters during the day and the demonkin to hunt at night. It¡¯ll serve as great training while also reducing the number of monsters in the upcoming wave."


    "Another great idea, Lakan. We''ll let them know¡ªit¡¯ll be excellent training," Zarik said.


    "Also, Sir Baloga, I want you to command us along with the other trusted demonkin when the monster wave is underway," Lakan added.


    "Why isn¡¯t that your job?" Baloga asked.


    "We¡¯re going to use the demonkins night vision for better command and a faster response to the monster onslaught," Lakan replied.


    "Ooh, I thought you¡¯d chicken out of taking command," Baloga teased.


    "Thank you. I¡¯ll be going now," Lakan said.


    The preparations were going well as the group worked together efficiently, uniting to make the work easier and faster. When noon arrived, the announcement began.


    "Hello, everyone. Now that you''re all here, I want to announce that we will evacuate to another place, as you already know what will happen after five days," Elder Ulganar said calmly, deliberately avoiding the term "Monster Wave" to prevent alarming the children.


    The adults already knew that a monster wave was coming, which is why they refrained from causing a commotion and scaring the kids.


    "Then I want all of us to evacuate to the location Lakan has chosen as our temporary base," Elder Ulganar continued.


    "Is the new base really safe for us when the monster wave happens? What will happen to us if the base can¡¯t protect us?" an elderly beastman called out.


    The mention of monsters agitated the children, as some of them had been used for hunting¡ªand even as bait¡ªwhen they were still slaves.


    "Ma! What is a monster wave? Are we going to hunt monsters? What does it mean?" one child cried. "Are we going to die?" another asked.


    "Is what that elder beastman said true? ¡°Aren¡¯t monster waves when a huge swarm of monsters attack and devour everything in their path?" a third child asked, his voice trembling.


    "Back when we were slaves, I heard the masters talk about them... they said no one survives if they get caught in one."


    "Then... that''s why they''re so busy?" a young girl murmured, her eyes widening with realization. "I thought the adults were just building our home..." Her voice trembled slightly as she clutched the hem of her tunic, anxiety creeping into her expression.


    While the children caused a commotion, Lakan''s eyes darkened as he glared menacingly at the beastman who had stirred their fears.


    "How do I get rid of these troublemakers?" he muttered under his breath, his fingers curling into fists. "They¡¯re nothing but a pain in the ass. People like them will only hinder our progress."


    Elder Ulganar, noticing Lakan¡¯s expression, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.


    "Don¡¯t worry, Lakan," he said in a calm but firm voice. "I expected this, which is why I gathered the warriors here."


    Taking a deep breath, Elder Ulganar stepped forward, raising his hands to quiet the children.


    "Listen up, kids!" he called out with a warm smile. "Yes, it¡¯s true that a monster wave is coming. That¡¯s why your parents are working so hard¡ªto protect you. But you¡¯re not alone in this." He gestured toward the gathered warriors, his voice brimming with confidence.


    "We have some of the greatest warriors standing with us! The Sharpest Fang of the Beastmen, Zarik, the Orc King of War, Drogath, the Dwarves Mighty Hammer, Dalangpan, and the Demonkin Brawler, Baloga!"


    Gasps of recognition rippled through the crowd, the children¡¯s fearful eyes now shimmering with awe. Elder Ulganar¡¯s leadership shone through as he swiftly turned the situation around, easing their fears with confidence and reassurance.


    "You all know them, don¡¯t you?" Elder Ulganar continued, his voice full of encouragement. "These warriors will fight to protect us. In fact, how would you like to see these legendary heroes in action, crushing the monsters before they can even reach us?"


    The children hesitated, exchanging uncertain glances¡ªuntil one of them raised a fist in excitement.


    "Really? We can watch?"


    "That¡¯s right!" Elder Ulganar nodded. "Are you excited?"


    The mood slowly shifted as the children, now filled with admiration rather than fear, began murmuring excitedly among themselves. With that, the great warriors began preparing for the monster hunt, ready to showcase their skills to the children. Even Lakan couldn''t hide his excitement¡ªafter all, he idolized these legendary warriors himself.


    Zarik whispered, embarrassed by the elder¡¯s childish act of stirring trouble, ¡°After this monster hunt, I¡¯ll make sure they¡¯re never respected as elders again. A beastman who lets his pride blind him will only lead his people to ruin.¡±


    Hearing this, Baloga smirked and muttered with a hint of amusement, "You used to be like that too, you know."


    "Shut up," Zarik replied flatly, his tone indifferent as if the comment didn¡¯t bother him.


    The preparations for the monster wave were progressing smoothly, with each group carrying out their assigned tasks. The orcs were busy logging and constructing the barricade, also clearing the trees in front of the base to create an open field for better visibility. Meanwhile, the dwarves were melting down old swords to forge sturdy spear tips. Zarik and Baloga¡¯s trainees remained focused on their training, while their mentors joined Drogath and Dalangpan on monster hunt.

 Chapter 11: Monster Wave Defense: Battle Plans for Survival (3)

    The monster hunt was now underway, with the children eagerly following the great warriors and Elder Ulganar. Lakan and Thorgana trailed behind, watching the group from a short distance.


    "Umm¡­ Lakan, can I ask you something?" Thorgana asked hesitantly.


    "What is it?" Lakan responded.


    She hesitated for a moment before speaking. "How did you become so strong at just thirteen years old? You''re only a year older than me, but your strength is beyond your years. Can I become like you too?"


    Lakan let out a small chuckle. "You overestimate me. I¡¯m not that strong." He glanced ahead, then continued, "I just took advantage of my father¡¯s training, along with all the tasks I had to endure¡ªhunting, fighting, even being used as bait. And also¡­" He lowered his voice. "Can I trust you with a secret?"


    Thorgana''s eyes lit up with curiosity. "Of course! You''re practically my cousin¡ªwe dwarves treat each other like family. I¡¯ll take your secret to my grave."


    Lakan smirked. "It¡¯s not that serious, really. I just don¡¯t want to reveal it too early."


    Thorgana laughed. "Hah! And here I thought it was some grand mystery."


    Lakan¡¯s expression turned serious. "You know I¡¯m half beastman and half human, right? I was adopted by my father, Panday."


    Thorgana nodded. "Yeah, everyone knew that back when we were still slaves. But to be honest, you look more like a human. It¡¯s just that you have fur¡ªexcept on your face, which looks just like a human¡¯s. Maybe that¡¯s why the beastmen won¡¯t accept you as one of their own."


    Lakan sighed, touching his face. "Yeah, I¡¯ve noticed that too. I do look more human than beastman. But to think I¡¯m more well-known than I thought¡­" He paused, his expression thoughtful before continuing. "My father once told me that he knew my mother. They were friends. She was cast out by the beastmen because her beliefs were different from theirs. Unknown to everyone else, she fell in love with a human noble who visited Viscount Beaufort. My biological father was captivated by her beauty too, and they secretly loved each other.


    "The only person my mother could trust was my father, Panday, so she confided in him when she realized she was pregnant with me. He kept her secret and helped them plan their escape¡ªmy biological father was supposed to buy her as a slave and then elope with her."


    Thorgana, being a hopeless romantic at heart, was already tearing up. "Sob¡­ What a tragic love story¡­ They just wanted to be together¡­ Sob¡­"


    Lakan stared at her, dumbfounded. "Why are you crying? I¡¯m not even finished yet."


    Thorgana wiped her tears. "Go on¡­ I need to hear the rest."


    Lakan sighed and continued, "Since my biological father frequently visited the prison, Viscount Beaufort started getting suspicious. His doubts grew by the day. But even so, my father managed to buy my mother, and they successfully escaped. They spent some time together, finally free¡­ but Beaufort wasn¡¯t one to let go so easily. His suspicions never faded, so he sent spies to uncover the truth. Eventually, they found my parents living together¡­ and by then, my mother was heavily pregnant with me.


    "They were caught and thrown back into Viscount Beaufort¡¯s prison, still holding onto the few items they had hoped to give me when I was born.


    "After some time, they were sentenced to execution. But before that, they entrusted me to my father, Panday."


    Thorgana''s eyes filled with tears. "They even prepared gifts for you before you were born¡­ This evil world¡­ Sob!" She suddenly burst into loud crying, startling the children and warriors around her.


    Lakan, his eye twitching, quickly covered her mouth. "This girl is really dramatic," he muttered under his breath.


    After a moment, he let out a small sigh and continued, "Well, those items became one of the sources of my strength. Along with toys, they gifted me books¡ªone containing a stolen beastman technique from my mother. I guess she took revenge by stealing it. She must have been a bit of a tomboy too. The other was a magic book from my biological father.


    "They wanted me to become stronger, knowing I would face hardships as a half-breed. That¡¯s all my father, Panday, told me."


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    Thorgana blinked in surprise. "Wait¡­ don¡¯t tell me you can use both magic and beastman techniques?"


    Lakan shrugged. "Yeah, pretty much," he admitted. "I trained using the books as a reference, but I¡¯m still not proficient in either."


    Thorgana gaped. "Woah! So that¡¯s why you¡¯re so strong! But¡­ sorry to ask this¡ªwhy weren¡¯t you executed along with your parents? Those nobles hate us so much, yet they let a mixed-blood like you live?" Her brows furrowed in confusion.


    Lakan fell silent, lost in thought. "I wonder about that too¡­ but even my father didn¡¯t know when I asked him."


    Thorgana let out a breath. "Well, no use dwelling on it. Anyway, you can teach me about strategies, right? I was really impressed by how you came up with them."


    Lakan smirked. "Well, I guess I can¡ªafter we survive the monster wave. I¡¯ll teach you using my father¡¯s lessons."


    "Yes! Thank you, Lakan!" Thorgana cheered, clenching her fists in excitement.


    Their conversation was suddenly cut short when Elder Ulganar''s booming voice echoed through the group.


    "Oh! Everyone, we¡¯ve spotted monsters! There are twenty hobgoblins ahead. Do you children want to see the warriors in action?"


    "Yes! We want to see them fight!" the children cheered excitedly.


    "Then, without further ado¡ªwarriors, go hunt those monsters!" Elder Ulganar commanded confidently, knowing his warriors would make quick work of the hobgoblins.


    The warriors who had been escorting the children stepped forward, ensuring the young ones kept a safe distance from the upcoming battle.


    Hobgoblins were a more evolved variant of goblins, having absorbed large amounts of mana. They stood over four meters tall and possessed significantly enhanced combat prowess.


    The great warriors¡ªZarik, Drogath, Baloga, and Dalangpan¡ªsprang into action, weapons in hand, ready for battle.


    Zarik and Baloga, the fastest among them, reached the hobgoblins first.


    Zarik dashed toward the nearest one, his sword gripped tightly in his right hand. The hobgoblin noticed his approach and raised its massive club, swinging it downward with tremendous force.


    BOOM!


    A cloud of dust exploded from the impact, but Zarik was already gone. In a blur, he leaped onto the club, sprinting along its length toward the hobgoblin''s face.


    SWISH!


    STAB!


    Zarik drove his blade deep into the hobgoblin¡¯s eye. The creature let out a guttural roar, thrashing wildly in pain. Taking advantage of its blind panic, he swiftly stabbed its other eye, rendering it completely sightless.


    The hobgoblin flailed, trying to grab him, but before it could, Zarik flipped backward, landing gracefully on the shoulder of another nearby hobgoblin.


    His senses sharpened, and his physical strength surged as he activated his technique. Locking onto his blinded target, he channeled power into his legs and launched himself into the air with such force that the hobgoblin he had landed on stumbled from the impact.


    BOOM!


    STAB!


    His blade plunged deep into the first hobgoblin¡¯s throat. Blood gushed as the massive creature collapsed, choking on its own lifeblood.


    Without missing a beat, Zarik finished off the second hobgoblin with lightning speed. Even Lakan and Thorgana were left in awe.


    "Woah¡­ they¡¯re so strong," Lakan muttered. "I guess we should ask them to train us."


    "Yeah," Thorgana agreed.


    Despite the gruesome battle before them, the children watched in admiration. Having grown up in slavery, they were already numb to the sight of death.


    Elder Ulganar''s heart ached as he observed their indifferent expressions. A single tear slipped down his cheek.


    "Children shouldn¡¯t look so¡­ empty while watching something like this," he whispered to himself.


    Then¡ª


    BOOM!


    While Zarik fought, Baloga engaged another hobgoblin.


    With a sword in each hand, Baloga rushed forward. The hobgoblin swung its massive club, but he swiftly dodged using Power Surge. Leaping high into the air, he drove his sword into the hobgoblin¡¯s stomach, using it as a foothold to propel himself even higher.


    "Hah! What an easy opponent," Baloga smirked before unleashing a rapid flurry of slashes, carving deep wounds into the hobgoblin¡¯s face.


    Then¡ª


    SWING!


    Baloga positioned himself on the creature¡¯s shoulder, took a stance, and, with one powerful swing, cleanly decapitated it.


    Another hobgoblin lunged at him, club raised high. Without hesitation, Baloga kicked the corpse of the fallen hobgoblin toward it, causing it to stagger. Seizing the moment, he launched forward, delivering a fatal blow that ended the fight in an instant.


    "Hahaha! Look, kids! Zarik and Baloga are just competing to see who can kill the most hobgoblins!" Elder Ulganar chuckled. "So, there¡¯s no need to worry!"


    The children cheered, their confidence in the great warriors growing.


    Meanwhile, Drogath and Dalangpan reached their targets. Though slower than the others, they wasted no time.


    BOOM! BOOM!


    Two hobgoblins collapsed as Drogath, wielding a massive club, and Dalangpan, armed with a stone hammer, shattered their legs in rapid succession.


    CRACK! CRACK!


    The sickening sound of breaking bones echoed through the air. Though they lacked agility, orcs and dwarves possessed monstrous physical strength. Using sheer force, they broke through the hobgoblins'' thick bones, bringing them crashing down.


    The battle was over.


    Elder Ulganar grinned. "Well, everyone! Our great warriors will be the heroes of the monster wave. Do you really think we¡¯ll be defeated?" He let the question hang in the air before grinning. "Of course not! So, let¡¯s celebrate our upcoming victory with a feast!"


    The children erupted into cheers, their spirits soaring. Satisfied with their reactions, Elder Ulganar set preparations for the feast in motion. As the festivities began, he pulled Zarik aside.


    "Zarik, keep an eye on that beastman who caused a stir during my announcement earlier," Elder Ulganar said.


    Zarik gave a firm nod, his expression serious. "I was already planning on it."


    As night fell, preparations for the monster wave continued smoothly. The first day had come to an end, and with it, a glimmer of hope shone upon them all.

 Chapter 12: Monster Wave Defense: Battle Plans for Survival (4)

    Morning arrived, marking the beginning of the second day of preparation. A lot of progress had already been made since the first day. Lakan surveyed the tasks assigned to the task managers


    The orcs'' barricade construction was coming along well. A four-meter-tall wall, currently three meters long, had already been constructed. The final structure was planned to be twelve meters long, with rocks reinforcing the inside and sturdy logs forming the outer wall, covering the left side of the base.


    "We have three days left to complete this barricade," Drogath said. "With the materials ready, we should make significant progress today. Tomorrow, we''ll move on to the left barricade. And don¡¯t forget what the dwarves said¡ªmake it a triangle."


    With the barricade steadily taking shape, the fortifications would soon be in place. Meanwhile, the terrakins had been working efficiently, both in expanding the animal network and digging the moat.


    "We¡¯ve already tamed forty insects of different kinds, ten birds, and three land animals," Orrin reported. "But we need to increase their numbers to improve the speed of information relay. What about the moat? How¡¯s the digging going, Mosswick?"


    "The moat is halfway done. We''ve finished the front, and by tomorrow, we should have it surrounding the entire base," Mosswick said. "The boars are excellent diggers, especially the monster boars. Their powerful bodies let them dig much deeper and faster."


    Orrin nodded. "What about the paralyzing powder? Are we on track?"


    "We¡¯re keeping up with the expected amount," a terrakin answered, wiping the sweat from his brow. "But if we get extra hands to help, we could exceed our target."


    Lakan offered a reassuring nod. "Some of the others have been making fast progress. Once they¡¯re done with their tasks, I¡¯ll have them come and assist you." His voice was steady, carrying the weight of leadership, yet warm enough to show his appreciation for their hard work.


    The terrakins had been the fastest to reach their expected output. Meanwhile, the dwarves'' weapon-making was on schedule and expected to be completed by the third day of preparation.


    "The number of weapons is increasing rapidly," Dalangpan reported. "Most of them are stone weapons, and the metal-tipped spears are already finished. By the fourth day of preparation, we¡¯ll be able to assist with other tasks. Is that alright with you all?"


    "Yes, Elder Brother!" the dwarves responded in unison.


    "Good. Then let¡¯s finish our work for today," Dalangpan commanded, the dwarves works tirelessly to have enough weapons to spare when the monster wave arrive, the weapons they are making are iron tipped spears for the warriors and stone spears to spiked up the ground of the moat and pit fall.


    After checking in on and assisting with various tasks, Lakan was satisfied with the progress made so far. His survey was not only to ensure that everything was proceeding according to plan but also to identify any potential improvements or additional strategies that could strengthen their defenses. Every aspect of their preparation was crucial¡ªthere was no room for mistakes, no margin for error. They had to be meticulous if they wanted to survive the monster wave. His mind raced through the various elements at play the fortifications, the weapons, the resources, and the morale of their people. Each piece of the puzzle needed to be perfectly aligned to withstand the inevitable onslaught.


    "How¡¯s the hunt going, Sir Zarik and Sir Baloga?" Lakan asked expecting a great haul from the great warrior and their trainees.


    "We hunted quite a lot today and extracted one hundred and twenty magic gems of various levels," Zarik said. "What do you plan to do with them?"


    "It¡¯s an investment," Lakan replied. "There will come a time when these magic gems will be useful to us."


    However, what they didn¡¯t know was that Lakan planned to use these magic gems to strengthen himself, to reach the level of the Great Warriors. As a leader and the only one who could wield magic, he believed that his abilities would be crucial to the defense of the base. But if he used that magic, there was a chance that people would look down on him, as it was a technique commonly associated with humans.


    Baloga nodded. "If that¡¯s the case, we trust your judgment. As long as it benefits the group, do what you need to. Here, take them."


    "Thank you for trusting me," Lakan said, accepting the gems.


    With his inspection complete, Lakan reflected on the progress they had made. Thorgana¡¯s group had been instrumental to their success. ¡°I should reward her for their efforts¡± he thought.


    Then, he turned to his own task¡ªtraining. He found a small cave, a secluded spot where the others wouldn¡¯t easily find him.


    Lakan arranged the one hundred and forty magic gems in a circle on the ground. Sitting in the center, he closed his eyes and focused, forming a circle with his hands. He trained to accumulate mana and expand his reserves so he could use more advanced spells. As a former slave, he could sense mana but had never dared to gather it. Doing so would have drawn unwanted attention since he was considered a product of taboo. But now that he was free¡ªand with a monster wave approaching¡ªhe needed to prepare thoroughly.


    Recalling the teachings from the book his father had given him, Lakan followed the method for increasing mana reserves. The technique involved exhausting almost all of his mana and then recovering it by drawing in energy while forcing a rapid release of his remaining reserves. This fluctuation pushed his body to normalize mana flow, strengthening his ability to absorb mana steadily.


    "Hah¡­ this is exhausting," Lakan muttered, dripping with sweat. He had depleted his mana multiple times, forcing himself to endure the intense strain and fatigue. Determined, he performed the technique one last time, extending the duration. His body trembled from fatigue. Finally, he collapsed to the ground, taking a moment to rest. Then¡ª


    "Fireball," he chanted. A flickering sphere of fire appeared in his hand, forming from thin air. He had used a spell from the book his father had left him¡ªa book filled with various magical techniques. The first spells Lakan had learned were Fireball and Mudflow, foundational abilities that had helped him understand the flow of mana and the essence of elemental control. Now, as he stared at the burning sphere in his palm, he felt the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. Magic was both a gift and a burden, and how he chose to wield it would determine the fate of those who relied on him.


    Lakan had used Mud Flow while fighting Mogdar, softening the ground and causing him to slip. Due to his previously low mana reserves, his spells had been weak, but they had still been enough to catch Mogdar off guard.


    Lakan was excited to see that he had cast a normal-sized fireball. Before, it would have been much weaker.


    Lakan said with a smirk "To think that Fireball would have its full power and size¡­ This method has definitely increased my mana," enjoying the result of his training.


    Humans dominated this world despite being physically weaker than other races, thanks to their proficiency in magic¡ªsecond only to the elves. Humans and elves were the only two races capable of using magic. With it, they could create powerful phenomena for both attack and defense. Recently, they had begun developing a new magical technique called Magic Frame, designed to enhance their physical abilities using magic. Over time, this technique allowed them to rival the physical capabilities of other races.


    After casting a fireball, he proceeded to unleash multiple fireballs in succession, rapidly draining his mana reserves. Each time he exhausted his energy, he focused on recovering it as quickly as possible, only to release it again in a relentless cycle. By repeatedly pushing his body to normalize the flow of mana, he could feel his reserves expanding, gradually increasing beyond their previous limits.


    "I¡¯m just going to train my magic today and increase my mana reserves¡ªto add another layer of defense against the monster wave. Then, from tomorrow onward until the battle, I''ll focus on honing my Beastman techniques," Lakan murmured, clenching his fist.


    For hours, he repeated the process, pushing his body to its limits. He cast spell after spell, exhausting his mana reserves only to replenish them again, strengthening his control and endurance. He studied the magical techniques written in the book his father had left behind, committing each spell to memory. Fireball, Mudflow, and several others¡ªeach new spell increased his arsenal, making him more prepared for the battle ahead. As night fell, his body ached with fatigue, but his spirit remained unwavering.


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    Meanwhile, hidden in the shadows, a group of beastmen gathered in secret. Their voices were hushed, their expressions tense as they exchanged wary glances.


    "Since Rhazak''s task ended in failure, we need a new plan to climb to the top of the hierarchy," said an old beastman, Rhaegor¡ªRhazak¡¯s grandfather. His eyes burned with ambition, his tone laced with frustration.


    "But how are we going to do that? Do you have a plan?" one of the beastmen asked, his voice uncertain.


    "You know I¡¯m the second eldest in our group. If we can remove Ulganar from his position, I can take his place as the new Elder," Rhaegor declared, his voice dripping with confidence.


    The other beastmen exchanged uneasy glances, shocked by the boldness of his plan. If the others found out, they would be executed or, at best, exiled. "Are you planning to kill him?" one of them asked, his voice barely above a whisper. "That would throw our entire group into chaos."


    Rhaegor scoffed, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Can you think of another way? If we succeed, we will reap the benefits. We will no longer be under the rule of those who claim to act in our best interest." His eyes darkened, lost in his vision of the future¡ªa future where he restored the lost glory of the beastmen.


    "If we do this and they find out, they¡¯ll either execute us or exile us¡ªworse, they might even harm our families," another beastman muttered. His hands clenched into fists, his concern not for himself, but for those he cared about. If their betrayal was discovered, even their families would suffer¡ªif not through punishment, then through the scorn of their own people.


    Rhaegor leaned in, lowering his voice. "We¡¯ll poison him little by little so it looks natural. He¡¯s already old¡ªit will seem like a natural death."


    Before they could continue plotting, a voice cut through the shadows, stopping them cold.


    "Arrest them!" Zarik commanded. "You old fools are planning our group¡¯s downfall! Our glory as beastmen is long gone¡ªdon¡¯t be blinded by greed. I would have killed you already if Elder Ulganar hadn¡¯t asked me to simply arrest you."


    "Zarik! Why are you siding with them? Have you lost your pride? Do you really think we¡¯ll survive the monster wave under their leadership? They''re so desperate that they''re even asking a child for help!" Rhaegor said angrily.


    "I¡¯d rather take orders from a child than from fools like you!" Zarik snapped. "You¡¯re endangering all of us by plotting to kill the Elder when a monster wave is approaching!"


    Zarik had already sensed their malice and had been spying on them, just waiting for them to act.


    "Drag them away and imprison them! We can¡¯t have fools like this in our group. Also, notify the group leaders and Elder Ulganar," Zarik ordered.


    The day ended, and the third day of preparation began. The imprisoned beastmen were put on public display for their verdict the next morning. The public was confused as to why there were imprisoned beastmen.


    "These fools plotted to kill Elder Ulganar so that Rhaegor could take his place¡ªright in the midst of the approaching crisis. With my fellow beastmen and Baloga as witnesses, I call upon the leaders of each race to deliver their verdict," Zarik declared.


    A commotion took place within the group.


    ¡°Why did they want to kill Elder Ulganar, why do they want to cause trouble to all of us when the Monster Wave?¡±


    ¡°They just want to be in the position as the Elder since that old beastman Rhaegor is the second eldest here¡±


    ¡°What a greedy bunch, is all the beastman really like this, It¡¯s good that Lakan is not like them, they should just be thankful.¡±


    After the public announcement, a private discussion was held among the leaders to determine the fate of the betraying beastmen. The tension in the room was palpable, the weight of their decision pressing upon them like an invisible force. Each leader understood that their verdict would set a precedent, shaping how their people would handle betrayal in the future. Would they choose mercy, ensuring unity in these dire times, or deliver a harsher punishment to discourage any further treachery? As voices rose in debate, the fate of the exiled beastmen hung in the balance, awaiting the final decision of their leaders.


    ¡°We should expel them. Killing them would only create fear within our group, and in the future, the people may oppose our rule. We might be the leaders for now, but I don¡¯t want that title if it means ruling through fear," Dalangpan said, his voice firm yet burdened with the weight of responsibility. He glanced at the others, his expression resolute yet troubled. "Our people must trust us, not cower before us. If we execute them now, what message will that send? That we rule with an iron fist, ready to strike down anyone who steps out of line? I refuse to lead that way."


    ¡°Nah! We should kill them," Baloga argued, crossing his arms and leaning forward with an intense glare. "People like that will seek revenge, even when they¡¯re the ones in the wrong. And what¡¯s wrong with ruling with an iron fist? This is still the early stage of our community¡¯s development. Without strict laws and severe punishments, fools like them will just keep causing problems that hinder our progress."


    His voice carried a sharp edge, his frustration evident as he scanned the faces of the other leaders. "Fear is a powerful tool. It keeps people in line. If we let them live, we might as well invite more traitors into our midst. Are we really willing to take that risk?"


    ¡°We must kill them,¡± Drogath stated, his voice laced with fury, his hands clenched into fists. His brows furrowed in anger as he slammed his palm against the table. "They threatened to kill Elder Ulganar! We cannot afford to be lenient when such betrayal runs this deep. If we show mercy now, who¡¯s to say there won¡¯t be another plot? Another traitor? And what if, next time, they succeed?"


    His gaze moved from one leader to another, ensuring they grasped the gravity of his words. "We must make it clear that betrayal will not be tolerated. But we must also be measured in our actions. Justice, not cruelty, must guide our hand."


    ¡°I will side with Dalangpan. It is more reasonable not to kill them, since we need unity now more than anything else," Orrin said, his voice steady but thoughtful. "Our people have only just gained their freedom. Their minds are still clouded with fear¡ªfear of the unknown dangers lurking here, and fear of being pursued once again by the kingdom. If we start executing our own, we may fracture what little trust and stability we have built."


    He glanced around the room, searching for understanding in the eyes of his fellow leaders. "Right now, we need to show strength, but not through bloodshed. A divided people cannot stand against the trials ahead. If we let paranoia and vengeance dictate our choices, we will be no better than the oppressors we escaped from."


    ¡°What about you, Lakan? Your words carry more weight,¡± Zarik asked.


    ¡°I agree with Uncle Dalangpan and Sir Orrin,¡± Lakan spoke up, his tone resolute yet laced with empathy. "We shouldn¡¯t instill fear within the group. If we execute them for attempted murder, others might turn against us. And to add to Leader Orrin''s statement, with the looming threat of the monster wave, people''s fear will only grow. That¡¯s why I propose that in the upcoming battle, we prove to them who they can truly rely on."


    His eyes burned with determination as he continued, his voice carrying a conviction that resonated with those around him. "I¡¯m not going to be a leader who hides behind others. These people have endured too much pain from slavery. It is our duty to be the ones who give them hope, not another reason to live in fear."


    ¡°Too soft, kid! Too soft!¡± Baloga scoffed, shaking his head in disapproval. His sharp eyes locked onto Lakan, frustration flickering in his gaze, though a hint of reluctant acceptance lingered. ¡°If that¡¯s the path you¡¯re set on, then fine, I¡¯ll follow it¡ªfor now. But hear me well, boy.¡±


    He jabbed a finger toward the table, his voice turning grave. ¡°I already lost one comrade in that battle, all because of those bastards. And if another falls due to their treachery, I won¡¯t hesitate. I¡¯ll cut them down on sight.¡±


    He leaned back, arms crossed, his jaw tight with restrained anger. ¡°We may be an easygoing race, but that doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯re fools. Mercy has its limits, and I won¡¯t stand by if it threatens our people.¡±


    The room fell into silence, the weight of their opposing views hanging thick in the air. Their opinions clashed like steel in battle, each argument shaping the course of their people¡¯s future. This decision would not only determine the fate of the betrayers but would also set the foundation for how justice would be carried out in their growing community.


    But as the rules dictated, the vote had spoken¡ªthe majority leaned toward expelling the traitors rather than executing them. And with that, the verdict was sealed.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then the vote is in favor of expelling them,¡± Zarik declared, his voice firm and unwavering. His piercing gaze swept across the room, ensuring that everyone understood the finality of the decision. ¡°Let this be a warning to all¡ªbetrayal will not be tolerated, but we will not rule with blind vengeance either. They will leave these lands, stripped of the protection and unity we offer. From this point on, their survival is their own burden to bear.¡±


    After the verdict was decided, the expulsion was imposed immediately. The ruling was publicly announced, and Rhaegor¡¯s group was officially cast out. As the expelled beastmen departed, Elder Ulganar stepped forward, his expression grave as he prepared to address the gathered crowd.


    Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward, puffing out his chest as he addressed the entire room. "What we need now is unity, not hatred. We are still developing, still finding our footing in this new land. As your acting leader, I want us to stand together as one. This land will be the home of the next generation, a place where all races can coexist without fear."


    He looked each leader in the eye, his voice steady but firm. "We will not condone any betrayal that happens again. Please, don¡¯t let greed or past grudges consume you. We have already suffered so much¡ªwe must learn to see eye to eye. No race is above another. We are all equal, and together, we will build a future worth fighting for."


    With his words, the group grew stronger despite their loss. The red moon loomed overhead redder than before, signaling that the coming catastrophe was near. The third day and fourth day preparation has ended with all the preparation already done, tomorrow would be the last day to prepare. Would their unity hold against the monster wave?

 Chapter 13: Monster Wave Defense: Battle Plans for Survival (5)

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    The Malzar Empire was in the throes of a brutal civil war. The three sons of Emperor Malzar waged relentless battles against one another, each vying for the throne.


    Two weeks before the Monster Wave.


    In the grand halls of Ardenhold, the chamber was adorned with lavish decorations, a magnificent chandelier hanging overhead. The air was thick with the scent of burning incense and aged parchment. At the far end of the hall, a man clad in a jeweled robe and crown sat upon a grand throne. Chief Minister Percival Montclair, an aged yet sharp-eyed man with a long, silver-streaked beard, stepped forward and bowed.


    ¡°Your Majesty, King of Ardenhold, the warring factions of the Malzar Empire have declared a ceasefire. It is set to last for two years,¡± he announced, his voice measured, though amusement flickered in his cunning gaze.


    King Ardenhold, a rotund man with a calculating glint in his eyes, scoffed. He leaned back in his throne, rubbing his round belly absentmindedly.


    ¡°I suppose they¡¯ve exhausted their resources,¡± he muttered, shaking his head. ¡°Typical.¡± He was against to the war of Malzar Empire, as he know that the war will not profitable and will just exhaust their resources.


    Montclair cleared his throat. ¡°There is another matter. The Empire¡¯s astrologists have predicted that the Monster Wave will arrive the week after next, Your Majesty. On that very day, we are to launch an attack on the Kingdom of Themura¡ªby the order of His Highness Droskar, the Emperor¡¯s third son.¡±


    The Monster Wave occurred once a year, coinciding with the appearance of the red moon and changes in monster movements. In the past, kingdoms collaborated to establish an astrologist association to predict the Monster Wave and prepare in advance. However, before this collaboration, the Kingdom of Malzar was the first to pioneer astrology, giving them a significant advantage in predicting the Monster Wave.


    Using this advantage, Malzar hoarded information about the Monster Wave and prepared for it while other kingdoms suffered due to their lack of knowledge. Seizing the opportunity, the Malzar Kingdom exploited the weakened states and launched invasions, eventually leading to the founding of the Malzar Empire.


    King Ardenhold¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Ah! He orders us to strike Themura? When the Monster Wave is nearly upon us?¡± His voice dripped with disbelief. ¡°What in the abyss is he thinking?¡±


    Montclair''s lips curled into a knowing smirk, his eyes gleaming with intrigue. "According to our reports, he¡¯s seeking to expand his influence. Of the three princes, he holds the weakest position, and he knows it. That¡¯s why he plans to use the Monster Wave as a diversion¡ªturning the chaos into his advantage. While everyone is busy fighting for survival, he¡¯ll make his move and invade Themura of the Varkzar Empire."


    His voice carried a quiet amusement, as if he admired the audacity of such a bold scheme. "A desperate gamble, but perhaps¡­ a clever one.¡±


    The King let out a dry chuckle. ¡°These imperial whelps think they can play gods just because they carry royal blood. They push kingdoms into war as if moving pieces on a board. If this madness continues, the Malzar Empire will crumble under their arrogance.¡±


    The war already cost the citizen of both the empire suffer from needless war of domination, the economy of both empire has fallen that they choose to ceasefire. But In the Malzar Empire a Civil War was happening and already reached a boiling point. The three princes were no longer mere rivals¡ªthey were locked in a ruthless struggle, ready to slit each other¡¯s throats at the slightest provocation.


    King Ardenhold drummed his fingers against the armrest of his throne, his mind racing through the possibilities. Finally, he turned to Montclair. ¡°Summon the nobles. We must strike swiftly before Themura can muster its defenses¡ªand before the monsters encircle us. We will not be caught between two enemies.¡±


    Montclair gave a slight bow, his voice laced with satisfaction. ¡°As you command, you¡¯re Majesty. This war will expand our territory, influence, and wealth. The profits will be sky-high. Now, let us make use of a noble whose lands have only recently expanded¡ªViscount Beaufort.¡± He leaned in and whispered the last part with a sly grin.


    A week and a half before the Monster Wave.


    Meanwhile, in Viscount Beaufort¡¯s estate¡­


    ¡°What?! They want us to be on the front lines against Themura what¡¯s the basis of this order? And we¡¯re going to have a war with Themura? This is the first I¡¯m hearing of it!¡± Viscount Beaufort exclaimed, his expression filled with disbelief, an order that was suddenly impose, a little to no preparation will be result.


    ¡°Yes, my lord,¡± his steward confirmed grimly. ¡°The report just arrived this morning, the King Ardenhold want us to be the frontlines in the upcoming war, with the reason of our territory¡¯s expansion. A messenger pigeon delivered the message, and they expect us to begin preparations immediately.¡±


    Beaufort clenched his fists, realization sinking in. He had little choice. The war is fast approaching, and now, he was being dragged into it. ¡°This wouldn¡¯t have happened if that bastard Capet hadn¡¯t gone bankrupt. The only thing I gained from him was his barren territory.¡± He let out a frustrated sigh before continuing. ¡°Begin preparations immediately. Use the baits and war slaves to minimize our losses¡ªand make sure not another escape happens.¡±


    The steward bowed deeply. ¡°Understood, my lord. Then, I shall take my leave.¡±


    Creeeak!


    The heavy doors of the hall swung open, their echoing groan filling the chamber. To the side, the messenger remained bowed, stepping aside to make way for the approaching figure. A middle-aged man strode in with an air of quiet authority, his refined garments and measured steps marking him as someone of importance. His sharp gaze swept across the room, assessing those present with practiced ease. A noble of another house had remained in the territory, but his sudden arrival suggested urgent business.


    Beaufort¡¯s eyes flickered with recognition before he smirked, masking the unease creeping into his expression. ¡°Oh! Count Evermont. What brings you here? Are you satisfied with the new batch of slaves? Did you sleep well yesterday? And how about your accommodations¡ªare they to your liking?¡± His voice carried an air of forced politeness, but beneath it, his nerves betrayed him. The presence of the man before him unsettled him more than he cared to admit.


    Count Evermont crossed his arms, his gaze sharp and unwavering. ¡°No need for the formalities, Beaufort. My brother¡¯s execution was justified¡ªhe brought it upon himself.¡± His tone was smooth, devoid of any lingering resentment, as if the matter were nothing more than a trivial inconvenience. He took a step forward, his expression unreadable. ¡°However, I do hope such disruptions won¡¯t occur again. Stability benefits us both, after all.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll I¡¯ve just do what I¡¯m supposed to do he was doing an atrocious act, so I need to report him.¡± Viscount Beaufort said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just forget about it, and the slave you have added to your collection, they are in good quality I want to buy some, but before that have you receive the order of King Ardenhold?.¡± Count said.


    ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s about it?¡± Viscount Beaufort ask.


    ¡°Well, I want the both of us to form an alliance, since I was also sent to the frontlines and it would be dangerous without help¡± Count Evermont said.


    Evermont leaned in slightly, his expression turning serious. ¡°I want us to form an alliance. I¡¯ve been assigned to the frontlines as well, and facing the Monster Wave without proper support would be reckless.¡±


    A look of relief crossed Beaufort¡¯s face. ¡°That¡¯s excellent news! I¡¯ve been struggling with the thought of holding the front alone. Your support would be greatly appreciated.¡± Evermont nodded with a smirk. ¡°Then it¡¯s settled. Let¡¯s give it our all in the upcoming Monster Wave.¡±


    The preparations of both nobles were coming along well. After two weeks, everything was complete, and the alliance now awaited the arrival of the Monster Wave. Soldiers trained relentlessly, fortifications were reinforced, and supplies were stockpiled in anticipation of the oncoming siege. The air was thick with tension, a silent dread settling over the encampments as scouts reported increased monster activity at the borders.


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    The last day of preparation had begun. All tasks had been completed through the unity of the people, each one helping the other, desperate to survive the impending Monster Wave. The air was thick with tension, yet beneath the anxiety lay a hardened determination. Blacksmiths hammered away at the final pieces of armor, their forges glowing like embers of resilience. Scouts patrolled the perimeter, their sharp eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of the approaching threat. On this final day, Elder Ulganar and Lakan made their rounds to ensure that nothing had been overlooked.


    ¡°Is the barricade finished? Have all the reinforcements been put in place? Is anything still missing?¡± Elder Ulganar asked, his tone firm yet expectant.


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°The barricade is fully completed,¡± Drogath responded with a nod. ¡°We even sought the guidance of the dwarves to ensure it was built with the strongest reinforcements possible. They made some adjustments to our original design, reinforcing the weak points and making sure it can withstand heavy impact.¡±


    Ulganar stroked his beard, his sharp eyes scanning the sturdy structure before him. ¡°And the defensive enhancements?¡± he pressed.


    ¡°It even has spiked logs attached to it,¡± Drogath confirmed. ¡°Anyone trying to breach it will have a hard time climbing over without impaling themselves first.¡±


    The elder hummed in approval. ¡°Good. That should slow down any creatures foolish enough to charge straight in.¡± He turned to Drogath and gave a nod. ¡°You and your team have done well. I expected nothing less.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Elder,¡± Drogath replied with pride.


    Lakan took a moment to walk along the barricade, running his hand across the solid wood and stone, carefully observing the craftsmanship. Finding no faults, he turned his gaze toward the Terrakins¡¯ worksite. ¡°Everything here looks well-fortified. Now, let¡¯s check on Mosswick and his team.¡±


    Elder Ulganar gestured toward the distance. ¡°Mosswick should be near the front of the wall. Let¡¯s see if his part of the preparations is also complete.¡±


    As they approached, Lakan greeted him. ¡°Mosswick, how¡¯s the moat coming along? Were there any issues with the excavation?¡±


    Mosswick wiped his hands on a cloth before responding, ¡°It was actually completed by the third day of preparations. I¡¯ve been overseeing final inspections and double-checking the foundation. The last thing we want is for it to collapse when we need it most.¡±


    Lakan crouched down near the edge of the moat, carefully studying the structure. He ran his fingers along the dirt, noting its compactness, then examined the embedded spears placed along the bottom. ¡°It¡¯s deep enough, the spikes are positioned correctly, and the length matches the layout from our defense plans.¡± He stood up, giving Mosswick an approving look. ¡°You¡¯ve done a great job. If anything tries to charge in, they¡¯ll be in for a nasty surprise.¡±


    Mosswick let out a satisfied chuckle. ¡°That¡¯s the idea. Let them try¡ªwe¡¯ll make sure they regret it.¡±


    After checking Orrin¡¯s work, they proceeded to him to verify the supply of paralyzing powder.


    Lakan greeted him with a respectful nod. ¡°Good day, Leader Orrin. Were you able to meet the quota for the paralyzing powder?¡±


    Orrin crossed his arms, a satisfied smirk on his face. ¡°We didn¡¯t just meet it¡ªwe exceeded it by a fair margin. We prepared more than enough to last through an extended battle, just in case the Monster Wave drags on longer than expected.¡±


    Lakan let out a breath of relief. ¡°That¡¯s excellent news. With that much supply, we¡¯ll have a stronger chance of defending ourselves, especially if things take a turn for the worse. Well done, Leader Orrin.¡± He paused before continuing, ¡°What about the Animal Network? Were you able to expand its reach?¡±


    Orrin nodded. ¡°Yes. We¡¯ve gathered a thousand different kinds of insects, a hundred birds, and fifty land animals, all spread out in a wide radius. They¡¯ll serve as our eyes and ears, keeping watch for anything unusual before it even reaches our defenses.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s brows lifted in admiration. ¡°That¡¯s impressive. With such a vast network, our response time will be almost immediate. This gives us an edge against any surprise attacks.¡±


    Orrin allowed himself a small smile. ¡°It¡¯s what we do best. Speed and information are just as important as strength on the battlefield.¡±


    ¡°Agreed. You and your team have done an incredible job. This will be a game-changer for us,¡± Lakan said sincerely.


    Orrin inclined his head in thanks but then hesitated, his eyes shifting toward Elder Ulganar. After a brief pause, he turned back to Lakan. ¡°Elder, I need to speak with Lakan privately. Would you mind going ahead?¡±


    Ulganar raised an eyebrow but didn¡¯t question it. ¡°Very well. I¡¯ll check in with Zarik and Baloga first. Lakan, catch up once you¡¯re finished.¡± With that, the elder turned and walked off, leaving the two alone.


    Orrin''s expression hardened as he fixed Lakan with a serious look. ¡°Lakan¡­ do you really need to go through with this? You¡¯re contradicting yourself, and you know it.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I know.¡± His voice was calm, yet there was a weight to it. ¡°But if I hadn¡¯t done it, we could have been on the brink of civil war. I needed to act before things spiraled out of control.¡± He let out a slow breath, his gaze steady. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t killed Rhaegor and his company, they might have turned against us in the worst possible moment. The beastmen have the highest chances of surviving in the forest¡ªif they fled, they could have regrouped and become a threat later.¡±


    Orrin clicked his tongue, his usual bashful demeanor replaced with something sterner. ¡°I figured as much. The Animal Network told me everything. Even if you tried to keep it hidden, I would have found out.¡± He exhaled sharply before shaking his head. ¡°But even so¡­ you should¡¯ve told me. We¡¯re not just following you blindly, Lakan. We¡¯re here to support you.¡±


    Lakan held Orrin¡¯s gaze before bowing slightly. ¡°I trust you, Leader Orrin. I always have. That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t try to hide it from you.¡±


    Orrin studied him for a moment before sighing. ¡°You¡¯ll carry this burden as you grow, Lakan. But don¡¯t bear it alone. You have us. Rely on the adults, too. Leadership isn¡¯t just about making the hard decisions¡ªit¡¯s about knowing when to share the weight.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s lips curled into a faint, grateful smile. ¡°I¡¯ll remember that. Thank you, Leader Orrin.¡±


    Orrin nodded in approval, and with that, Lakan turned and hurried off to rejoin Elder Ulganar.


    He found the elder speaking with Zarik and Baloga. Taking a deep breath to compose himself, he approached them. ¡°Sir Zarik, Sir Baloga,¡± he called out. ¡°Are the reports ready?¡±


    ""Yes," Zarik replied. "While hunting monsters, we also surveyed the forest. Since we''re deep in the woods, we can expect to encounter high-tier enemies on the first day. After that, things should get easier as we clear out the immediate threats. We¡¯ve come across mimics, long-arm goblins, hobgoblins, and night stalkers. Those are the most notable ones so far."


    Lakan nodded, intrigued. ¡°Can you describe them in more detail? I¡¯ve heard of most, but I¡¯ve never fought them myself. Back when we were slaves, I only faced monsters near the forest entrance, and those were just the weaker variants.¡±


    Zarik smirked. ¡°Well, you¡¯re still a kid, so that¡¯s to be expected. The ones we encountered are all evolved versions of common monsters, meaning they¡¯re more dangerous and have better survival instincts.¡± He crossed his arms and continued, ¡°Mimics are evolved dire chameleons¡ªthey don¡¯t just blend into their surroundings, they can actually change their appearance to mimic other creatures. If you¡¯re not careful, you might mistake one for a wounded ally.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s eyes narrowed in thought. ¡°That¡¯s going to be a problem. We¡¯ll need a way to distinguish them quickly in battle.¡±


    ¡°Exactly,¡± Zarik agreed. ¡°Next, we have long-arm goblins. Pretty self-explanatory¡ªthey¡¯re goblins with absurdly long arms. The extra reach lets them fight from unexpected angles, and they can hurl rocks or weapons with incredible force. They usually stay in groups, making them even more annoying to deal with.¡±


    ¡°What monsters are bipedal or quadrupedal?¡± Lakan asked, his tone serious as he looked between Zarik and Baloga.


    Baloga raised an eyebrow. ¡°Planning a counterattack already?¡±


    Lakan nodded without hesitation. ¡°Yes. That¡¯s exactly why I assigned you to the monster scouting task. Knowing how they move will help us set up the best defenses.¡±


    Zarik chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°You¡¯ve got a sharp mind, kid. You¡¯d be a terrifying enemy if you were on the other side.¡±


    Lakan smirked. ¡°Funny hearing that from you. You used to hate me, though.¡±


    Baloga let out a booming laugh. ¡°Hah! Even the kid noticed how much you disliked him.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, man,¡± Zarik grumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°Anyway, all of them are bipedal except for the night stalkers. Those things can switch between walking on two legs and running on all fours when they need to move fast.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s expression sharpened. ¡°Oh! That¡¯s good.¡± He crossed his arms in thought. ¡°We can use that to our advantage. We should set up potholes and monster pits.¡±


    Zarik frowned slightly. ¡°And what¡¯s your reasoning behind that?¡±


    Lakan¡¯s gaze remained unwavering as he explained. ¡°For the potholes, since most of them are bipedal, they¡¯ll be easier to trip. That will slow their charge, giving us time to react. As for the monster pits, they serve as an extra precaution. Bipedal creatures are usually more agile and can dodge pits, but if they stumble into a pothole first, they¡¯ll have a much higher chance of falling in. It might sound simple, but I¡¯ve used this strategy before while hunting. It works.¡±


    Baloga exhaled, shaking his head in amusement. ¡°We¡¯re really getting outdone by a child here. If we don¡¯t step up, we¡¯ll be embarrassed tomorrow.¡±


    "That¡¯s a given," Zarik added with a smirk. "I wonder about you, though¡ªsince you¡¯re the weakest one here.¡±


    Baloga blinked in surprise before a slow grin spread across his face. ¡°Oh? That¡¯s a first. You actually have the guts to throw insults now? Do you want a piece of me, Zarik?¡±


    Zarik snorted. ¡°Like I¡¯d waste my energy on that.¡±


    ¡°Hey, enough you two,¡± Elder Ulganar¡¯s voice cut through their banter, his expression firm. ¡°Lakan, are you finished speaking with them? It¡¯s already noon, and if we¡¯re going to implement your strategy, we should get started.¡±


    Lakan straightened and nodded. ¡°Yes, Elder. We need to ask the Terrakins again to use wild boars for our impromptu plan. Their strength will help us make quick work of the pit digging.¡±


    Ulganar gave an approving nod. ¡°Then let¡¯s not waste any more time. We move now.¡±


    The talk with Zarik and Baloga has done with a new strategy that they come up. Without delay they work with the Terrakins to impose the strategy. Elder Ulganar called the group for announcement he want to make except those who are involve with the strategy Lakan come up with just now.


    "Everyone, I know some of you might be scared of the upcoming Monster Waves, but don¡¯t worry¡ªwe¡¯ve done all we could. Be confident that we will survive. I promise you, if we endure this catastrophe, we will step into a future of prosperity and strength!" Elder Ulganar announce.


    "For survival! For our future!" the crowd chanted, their fear replaced by determination.


    A roar of approval erupted from the crowd, voices rising in unity. The future the monster wave will hold was enough to make the group determined to survive.


    The final day of preparation was complete. Every trap was set, every weapon sharpened, and every warrior trained. Now, all that remained was to face the Monster Wave¡ªand to survive.


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 Chapter 14: Monster Wave Defense – The Battle with the Ignitaur

    The morning of the first day of the monster wave. Lakan and the leaders began their preparations, ensuring their warriors were armed and defenses reinforced. Hours passed as strategies were finalized, weapons sharpened, and spells prepared. The sun crawled across the sky, casting long shadows as dusk approached.


    As the horizon burned with the last light of day, a heavy silence settled over the land. Torches flickered to life, their flames dancing against the encroaching darkness. The crimson glow of the red moon bathed the surroundings in an eerie light, twisting shadows into menacing forms. A biting chill crept through the base, gnawing at flesh and bone. Then, as the first stars blinked into existence, the waiting ended.


    Night had come¡ªand with it, the monsters.


    At the entrance of the forest, a red light flickered, blending with the pitch-dark shadows that stretched like grasping hands. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and decay, and a chilling breeze whispered through the gnarled branches above.


    A lone goblin monster trudged forward, its twisted form barely visible in the eerie glow. Its beady eyes gleamed with hunger, its jagged teeth bared in a sinister grin. Each step it took was slow and deliberate, its clawed fingers twitching as it crept toward the distant base, where the faint glow of torches flickered against the night.


    Somewhere in the darkness, a low growl rumbled¡ªa warning, or perhaps a challenge. The goblin paused, sniffing the air, its hunched back rising and falling with each ragged breath. The night was alive with unseen threats, but it pressed on, driven by an unshakable purpose.


    ¡°Damn, that¡¯s a lot of them,¡± Baloga muttered. ¡°Prepare your spears! Start burning the paralyzing powder! Shoot it!¡± with his night vision Baloga saw at the back of the entrance a wave of monster charging.


    One of the warriors frowned. ¡°It¡¯s just one goblin. What do you mean, a lot of them?¡±


    Baloga snapped, ¡°Just trust me! I¡¯m the commander here¡ªI know what I¡¯m seeing.¡±


    Before anyone could question him further, one of the soldiers raised his bow and took aim at the approaching goblin, releasing an arrow with a swift motion.


    SWISH!


    The warrior¡¯s arrow splitting the air traveling to the upcoming monster, THWACK! The arrow struck true, piercing the creature¡¯s chest right in the center. For a brief moment, it stood frozen, its beady red eyes widening in shock. Then, it let out a shrill, ear-splitting squeal that sent a shiver down the warriors¡¯ spines.


    Atop the wall, the warriors watched in shock as the lone goblin convulsed, its small frame twisting unnaturally. Its muscles swelled, stretching its wiry body into something far more formidable. Its beady eyes bulged, almost popping from its skull, while its green skin darkened and hardened, shifting into smooth, glistening scales.


    Bones cracked, limbs elongated, and within moments, the goblin was no more¡ªreplaced by a creature the size of a grown man, its body now resembling a bipedal chameleon. It flicked out a long, forked tongue, its eerie, slit-pupil eyes scanning the warriors above.


    ¡°There it is¡ªthe mimic,¡± Baloga said grimly. ¡°They¡¯re coming! Prepare yourselves!¡± his shout echoed through the night¡ªsharp, urgent. Beyond the entrance of the forest, the monsters charged.


    CRACK! Branches snapped like brittle bones.


    SHRRK! Leaves and underbrush tore apart in their relentless path, shredded by unseen claws and trampling feet.


    THUD! THUD! The earth trembled beneath their massive weight, each step a promise of impending destruction. The warriors atop the wall felt the vibrations in their bones, a steady, ominous drumbeat that signaled the approach of something far worse than mere goblins.


    A deep, guttural growl rumbled through the air, followed by an eerie chittering sound that sent shivers down their spines. Shadows shifted between the trees, revealing flickers of scaled bodies, towering hobgoblins, long-armed hunchbacked goblins, and a dark-skinned bipedal bat, the monsters glowing predatory eyes piercing through the gloom.


    The appearance of a massive group of monsters alerted Baloga, the commander. ¡°Orcs, prepare to throw boulders! Wait for my signal! And also cover your noses!¡± Baloga commanded.


    As the monsters charged, the ground suddenly betrayed them.


    THUD! CRACK! A hobgoblin roared in pain as its massive foot sank into a hidden pitfall, snapping its ankle with a sickening crunch. SHRIEK! A long-armed goblin tumbled forward, its claws flailing wildly before it crashed headfirst into the dirt. SHRIEK! The mimic, which had taken the appearance of another monster, stumbled into the pitfall and let out a shriek as it reverted to its original form.


    Chaos erupted as the charging horde stumbled into cleverly placed potholes and pitfalls, their once-relentless advance turning into a frenzied mess. SQUELCH! A night stalker shrieked as it fell, only to be crushed beneath the stampeding feet of its own kin.


    ¡°It worked... but why are some of them already injured?¡± Baloga murmured, eyes narrowing. ¡°Bruises, bite wounds... Hobgoblins should be at the top of the food chain here.¡±


    The monsters grew more frenzied as they neared the wall, their charge becoming even more relentless at the sight of their prey. Some fell into the moat. Long-armed goblins prepared to throw rocks, while the hulking hobgoblins lifted boulders, aiming for the warriors stationed atop the wall. Night Stalkers glided down from the shoulders of the hobgoblins, ready to strike¡ª.


    Then¡ª


    The nearest monster suddenly froze, paralyzed. Then another. And another.


    Baloga hesitated for a moment before shouting, ¡°Orcs, now!¡±


    The orcs hurled their boulders, the massive stones slicing through the air and crashing into the immobilized monsters. The impact obliterated the horde, though a few, especially the larger hobgoblins, survived due to their sheer size.


    ¡°Keep burning the paralyzing powder! Orcs, stop throwing boulders! Open the gate¡ªLakan, Zarik, it''s your turn! Kill the stragglers!¡±


    Baloga activated his night vision, scanning the tree line. His stomach dropped.


    ¡°There¡¯s another wave coming¡ªbig swarm beyond the forest. Kill them all before they overwhelm us!¡±


    Lakan, Zarik, and a group of beastmen rushed out, swiftly cutting down the surviving monsters, prioritizing the hobgoblins. With the creatures still paralyzed, the battle ended quickly. The warriors retreated inside.


    Orrin came running, his face pale with urgency.


    ¡°Bad news! Three Minotaurs are coming¡ªthey¡¯re killing monsters on their way here. I think they sensed our presence. They¡¯re still far, but they¡¯re chasing the monsters.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s why they were already wounded¡­¡± Lakan muttered.


    The surrounding warriors heard the report and were startled by the sudden news of the Minotaurs.


    "A Minotaur? How is that monster even here?"


    "It¡¯s only the first day of the Monster Wave, and we¡¯re already doomed!"


    "Shit, we need to evacuate the others!"


    Baloga took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Azrath, take over command. We need a plan to deal with the Minotaurs."


    The Minotaur¡ªa bipedal monster born from the evolution of a Dire Bull. A high-class creature, several times stronger than a hobgoblin, with a short temper that wreaks havoc on anyone who sets it off.


    Baloga turned to Orrin, frowning. ¡°Wait, you have your animal network, right? Why are you only reporting this now? Shouldn¡¯t you have known in advance?¡±


    Orrin exhaled sharply. ¡°I don¡¯t control the animals, Baloga. They help us, but if they sense danger, they abandon their post. This report came from an insect¡ªthat¡¯s why it took so long to reach me.¡±


    Baloga raised an eyebrow. ¡°Hold on, how does an insect even know what a Minotaur is? Do they communicate with gestures, or¡­ can you actually talk to them?¡±


    The room fell into tense silence at the seemingly ridiculous question.


    ¡°Why the hell are you asking that now?¡± Zarik snapped.


    ¡°Sorry, just thinking ahead,¡± Baloga muttered.


    Zarik exhaled sharply. ¡°We don¡¯t have time for distractions. We need to focus on the Minotaurs. They¡¯re the biggest threat.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s gaze flicked between them. ¡°Have either of you fought one before?¡±


    Baloga hesitated before nodding. ¡°I wounded one once¡­ but I barely escaped. They¡¯re faster than they look.¡±


    ¡°Should we try poisoning them?¡± Lakan asked.


    Baloga shook his head. ¡°No. They¡¯re resistant to poison¡ªand that includes the paralyzing powder.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°But they¡¯re still affected by the Red Moon, right? I¡¯m also wondering¡ªwhy does the Red Moon affect the monsters?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Baloga corrected. ¡°They aren¡¯t. They have a level of intelligence¡ªbut they can¡¯t use magic. Their horns absorb mana and store it until they evolve into an Ignitaur. As for why the Red Moon affects the monsters, back when we were still slaves, I heard the humans talking about it. They said the light drives monsters mad because it resembles blood.¡±


    Lakan exhaled. ¡°So that explains why the other monsters attack in waves. But since all of them¡ªexcept for the Minotaurs¡ªare still affected by the Red Moon, we can use that to our advantage. If we play this right, we could manipulate them¡ªforcing the Minotaurs and other monsters to fight each other or steering them where we want.¡±


    Zarik folded his arms. ¡°The monsters will defend themselves if attacked, but it won¡¯t matter. The Minotaurs will slaughter them instantly¡ªthere are three of them.¡±


    Lakan¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Then we change the battlefield. We can lure the Minotaur into the moats and trap them.¡±


    Orrin frowned. ¡°That won¡¯t work if they just leap across.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s where Drogath¡¯s logs come in,¡± Lakan explained. ¡°If the Minotaurs jump into the moat, we can use the logs to push them back out.¡±


    Zarik crossed his arms. ¡°So who¡¯s going to lure the Minotaur?¡±


    Lakan¡¯s gaze swept across the group before settling on Baloga. ¡°What about you, Baloga, and me?¡±


    Baloga let out a sharp breath. ¡°That¡¯s risky. We need to make sure we¡¯re fast enough to escape if things go wrong.¡±


    Zarik nodded. ¡°Agreed. We¡¯ll need to split their attention. One of us should act as the primary bait while the others keep them distracted and guide them toward the trap.¡±


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    Lakan smirked. ¡°We will use the terrain and the traps we laid to fight them. I¡¯ll take point. Baloga, you cover me. Zarik, you create diversions¡ªuse the terrain to slow them down.¡±


    Baloga rolled his shoulders. ¡°Fine, but if this goes south, I¡¯m blaming you.¡±


    Lakan chuckled. ¡°Then let¡¯s make sure it doesn¡¯t.¡±


    A distant roar echoed through the battlefield. The Minotaurs were close. There was no more time for second-guessing.


    ¡°Let¡¯s move.¡±


    The meeting ended quickly. Lakan, Baloga, and Zarik moved to execute the plan. Meanwhile, on the left side of the wall, where Drogath and Dalangpan were stationed... "Leader, a Minotaur appeared on the other side!" "Drogath, go help them. I''ll keep commanding here. Orcs, throw another batch of boulders! Go now, Drogath!"


    A sharp call from the left side of the wall interrupted them.


    ¡°Leader! A Minotaur just appeared on the other side!¡±


    Dalangpan turned to Drogath. ¡°Go help them. I¡¯ll hold command here. Orcs, another batch of boulders¡ªNOW! Drogath, move!¡±


    Monsters kept pouring in from every side of the barrier. With Dalangpan in command, Drogath was free to assist the others in dealing with the Minotaur.


    It was the dead of night, slowly approaching dawn. Zarik, Baloga, and Lakan were fighting at the front, using the potholes and pitfalls to their advantage. They managed to hold their ground against the swarm of monsters.


    ¡°Shit! This isn¡¯t going as planned¡ªit¡¯s getting more intense. Baloga and Zarik can¡¯t lure them properly if this keeps up,¡± Lakan said.


    The monsters continued their relentless assault on the base, showing no signs of slowing down.


    ¡°If this keeps up, we won¡¯t be able to lure the Minotaur and the other monsters toward each other,¡± Lakan murmured. ¡°Azrath! Throw another batch of boulders¡ªbreak their momentum! Baloga! Zarik! Watch out for the boulders!¡±


    Once again, boulders tore through the air before crashing into the horde of monsters, scattering them on impact. The ground trembled from the force, sending dust and debris flying.


    Zarik, Baloga, and Lakan avoided the falling boulders, twisting their bodies with precision and relying on their agility to stay unharmed. The deafening crashes mixed with the monstrous roars, the monster was obliterated.


    ¡°Baloga! What¡¯s the situation inside the forest?¡± Lakan ask.


    Baloga uses his night vision ¡°Monsters still charging two Minotaur ahead while the other one is at the far back.¡±


    ¡°Azrath! Keep fanning the flames of paralyzing powder so that the Minotaur can slaughter the monsters, then put it out when I say¡± Lakan shouts.


    After some time, the monsters stopped. Meanwhile, the charging Minotaurs had reached them, tearing through their ranks with brute force. Their massive horns gored through flesh, sending bodies flying, while their heavy hooves trampled those who fell. With every swing of their weapons, bones shattered, and roars of agony filled the battlefield. Blood sprayed across the ground as the Minotaurs rampaged, leaving a trail of carnage in their wake, mercilessly cutting down the wave of monsters


    Lakan seeing the situation take advantage of it.


    ¡°Baloga, Zarik lure the Minotaurs while the other monster is paralyzed, I¡¯ll take care of the Minotaur at the back.¡± Lakan commands.


    "Just by yourself?" Zarik asked.


    "Trust me, there is no time to explain." Lakan replied while heading straight to the forest with haste.


    "Just make sure this plan of yours works," Baloga shouts.


    Lakan rushed into the forest, igniting a fire. The moment he reached the trees, he stretched out his hands and focused. Flickers of flame danced at his fingertips.


    "Fireball, Fireball, Fireball," he chanted quietly.


    Small flames erupted from his hands, licking at the dry underbrush. Within seconds, the fire took hold, spreading rapidly as if hungry for destruction. Thick smoke billowed upward, curling into the sky like a beacon.


    "What the hell are you thinking, starting a fire in the forest?!" Zarik bellowed from the base, his voice barely cutting through the chaos. "Get back here before you¡¯re surrounded, damn it!"


    "You¡¯ll see! Just hold on a little longer!" Lakan shouted back, his silhouette barely visible through the thick smoke. His gaze remained locked on the sky, waiting¡ªwatching for something only he understood.


    "This kid is going to get himself killed," Baloga said, shaking his head.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just trust him, we should do our part now¡± Zarik replied.


    The two of them has started their part of the plan. Baloga and Zarik provoked the two Minotaurs who is still killing the paralyzed monsters up ahead by throwing rocks at them.


    ROAR!


    ¡°Come get us, you big-ass bulls!¡± Baloga shouted, twirling his twin swords in his hands. The steel gleamed under the dim light, reflecting the flickering fire in the distance.


    The two Minotaurs roared in fury, nostrils flaring as they locked onto him and Zarik. Their hooves pounded against the dirt, sending tremors through the ground as they charged.


    Zarik¡¯s eyes locked onto the Minotaur. His breath was steady, his muscles tense. Timing was everything.


    Then, he turned and ran.


    ¡°Everyone, get ready!¡± he shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos.


    Baloga and Zarik sprinted toward the base, the ground trembling beneath them as the Minotaurs gave chase. The beasts were relentless, their rage unyielding. With terrifying strength, they grabbed nearby monsters and hurled them through the air, turning them into deadly projectiles.


    ¡°Zarik, move! They¡¯re throwing monsters at us!¡± Baloga shouted.


    The two dodged with razor-sharp precision, rolling and sidestepping as the bodies crashed around them. The moat was just ahead. They pushed harder, running at full speed, the furious Minotaurs right behind them.


    Then¡ªtwin leaps over the moat.


    They landed, feet skidding on dirt, and rushed toward the towering wall.


    ¡°Ready! Time the release of the logs!¡± Zarik commanded, his voice edged with urgency.


    The warriors above held their breath, gripping the mechanism.


    The Minotaurs roared and lunged, their powerful legs propelling them forward.


    ¡°Now!¡± Zarik shouted.


    RUMBLE!


    The logs thundered down in an avalanche of destruction. The first Minotaur landed¡ªonly to slip on the rolling wood, its massive body crashing hard. The second Minotaur managed to land safely, but a thick log struck it with bone-crushing force, knocking it backward.


    The beasts struggled, clawing and kicking against the relentless flood of rolling logs. Their furious bellows filled the air. Desperation overtook rage. They punched, grabbed, and hurled logs at the wall in a last, frenzied attempt to fight back.


    Baloga tightened his grip on his swords, eyes burning with defiance.


    ¡°Hold your ground! Block the incoming logs! Just give up, you monsters!¡± he roared.


    Meanwhile, as the chase raged through the forest, Lakan surveyed the surroundings, leaping from tree to tree to avoid being consumed by the spreading fire.


    Through the thick smoke, his eyes locked onto movement in the distance¡ªanother wave of monsters, closing in fast. His grip tightened.


    ¡°There they are. More of them,¡± he muttered under his breath. ¡°I should use paralyzing powder here. Since the plan is to cover the Red Moon with smoke, and the wind is on our side, there¡¯s no need to engage.¡±


    But then¡ªhis instincts screamed.


    Shi¡ª!


    A thunderous impact tore through the air.


    A Minotaur launched itself from the ground, soaring toward him with terrifying speed. Its massive fist, as heavy as a warhammer, came crashing down.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Lakan¡¯s heart pounded. His pulse roared in his ears as he flung his hand forward, voice laced with desperation.


    ¡°Wind Push!¡±


    A powerful gust exploded from his palm, barely deflecting the Minotaur¡¯s attack. But the force of his own spell sent him hurtling backward. His body slammed into the ground near the entrance of the forest, skidding through dirt and debris.


    His head spun, his ribs ached. But before he could recover¡ª


    The ground trembled.


    Heavy hooves pounded against the earth. The Minotaur had locked onto him.


    Then¡ªmovement. Shadows flitted at the edges of his vision. The surrounding monsters had noticed him.


    His breath hitched.


    Shapes lunged from all sides, their snarls slicing through the air. Claws scraped against bark. Eyes glowed with bloodthirsty hunger.


    ¡°Damn it! I¡¯m surrounded!¡± Lakan¡¯s voice cracked with strain. His mind raced. His eyes darted, searching¡ª


    ¡°Dirt Wall!¡±


    The ground erupted, jagged earth surging upward, blocking the creatures to his right. But more were coming from the left.


    His pulse spiked. No time.


    Lakan slammed his palms into the dirt.


    ¡°Mud Flow!¡±


    The earth beneath them twisted into a thick, sludgy trap. The monsters thrashed, shrieking as they sank, their claws scraping wildly against the sinking terrain¡ª


    But the Minotaur didn¡¯t care.


    With a furious roar, it leaped over the mud, its bloodshot eyes locked onto him. In its hands¡ªa massive club, jagged and brutal, scavenged from a fallen hobgoblin.


    It swung.


    Lakan barely dodged, the air splitting with the force of the strike. The club crashed down behind him, the impact sending a shockwave through the ground. He staggered forward, legs screaming in protest.


    No way out, he needed cover.


    Gritting his teeth, fingers tightening, he channeled the last of his strength.


    ¡°Smoke Area!¡±


    A thick, choking fog erupted around him, swallowing the battlefield whole. The Minotaur paused, confused. The monsters hesitated¡ªthen the scent hit them.


    Lakan didn¡¯t wait. He reached into his pouch¡ª


    ¡°Fireball!¡±


    BOOM!


    The explosion ignited the paralyzing powder¡ªfreezing the battlefield.


    Monsters stiffened mid-lunge, their eyes widening in shock as their bodies betrayed them. Lakan didn¡¯t hesitate. He bolted, clutching his broken ribs. As he ran past the paralyzed creatures, a deafening roar tore through the air, shaking the very ground beneath him.


    ROAR!


    Fear gripped Lakan¡¯s chest. ¡°The Minotaur! It had to be. His mind raced. Had it already noticed my escape?¡± But when he glanced back¡ªhis breath caught.


    The Minotaur he had fought wasn¡¯t after him. It was locked in battle with another monster. Then, from the base¡ªcheers erupted.


    Confused, Lakan turned toward the wall. The two Minotaurs that had been chasing Baloga and Zarik¡ªwere gone.


    ¡°Lakan! We defeated the Minotaurs! What the hell were you doing in the forest? Get back here before the other one catches up to you!¡± Baloga called out.


    Lakan barely had time to process his words when Baloga¡¯s gaze shifted toward the trees, his expression darkening. Then¡ª


    ROAR!


    The Minotaur let out a thunderous roar, a sound that echoed with both agony and triumph. Its massive frame trembled as raw mana surged through its horn, blazing like a pillar of light. The energy had reached its peak¡ªunstable, uncontrollable. Cracks of arcane power rippled across its body as its form began to change. The beast was evolving.


    A blinding light tore through the battlefield, forcing every warrior on the wall to shield their eyes. Murmurs of confusion and alarm spread among them.


    "What in the gods'' name was that light?!" someone shouted.


    "Did lightning strike?!" another exclaimed.


    "That came from the forest¡­ but how?!"Then¡ª.


    SWISH!


    A massive fireball was coming at the base. Lakan notices ¡°Shit¡ª I need to defend the wall, a fire is coming get out of there¡± But the warriors just noticed the fireball. Lakan sense the urgency run with all his might and jumps over the moat. Then¡ª.


    ¡°Dirt Wall!¡±


    He slammed his hands in the ground, pouring every last drop of mana into the spell. The ground trembled¡ªthen BOOM! A thick, jagged wall erupted from the earth, surging upward just as the fireball struck.


    Baloga¡¯s breath hitched. His voice dropped to a shaken whisper. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ not a Minotaur anymore.¡± Then he shouted, voice filled with urgency¡ª ¡°The Minotaur evolved into an Ignitaur!¡±


    CRACK! SIZZLE! BOOM!


    Flames slammed into stone, heat washing over the warriors like a tidal wave. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the ground. Dust and embers rained down.


    ROAR¡­..!


    The Ignitaur charged from the forest entrance, its molten eyes locking onto the warriors at the base. Veins of liquid flame pulsed within the cracks of its obsidian-like hide. Monsters caught in its path were obliterated. The monster, sensing the Minotaurs overwhelming strength, instinctively fled.


    Lakan staggered, gasping for air. The dirt wall held¡ªbut barely. Cracks spider webbed across its surface, steam hissing from scorched stone.


    "Shit! The Minotaur evolved into an Ignitaur¡ªLakan, catch!" Baloga shouted.


    Lakan, battered and drained of mana, barely caught the potion Baloga tossed. Without hesitation, he downed it in one gulp. A soothing warmth spread through his body, mending his wounds and knitting broken bones back together. Though his strength returned, his mana remained depleted, and his mind still reeled from the strain of casting too many spells in too short a time.


    THUD! THUD!


    The Ignitaur charged from the forest entrance, its molten eyes locking onto the warriors at the base. Every step it took scorched the ground, flames rolling off its body. Monsters caught in its path were obliterated, reduced to ash and embers. The others, sensing the overwhelming heat, instinctively fled, their fear overriding the Red Moon¡¯s influence.


    "Are the others inside evacuated?" Lakan asked, gripping his weapon tighter.


    "Yes! Elder Ulganar and the warriors moved to the cave you told us about," Drogath confirmed.


    Suddenly, two figures sprinted in from the side wall¡ªDalangpan and Drogath. They had been stationed at the left-side rear wall.


    "What was that roar? What''s the situation here?" he demanded.


    "Why are you two here? Well this is much better, we need more help here" Baloga asked.


    "We told the warriors to hold the line. They¡¯ll be fine, they could just use paralyzing powder. But¡ª" Dalangpan¡¯s eyes widened as he took in the fiery beast before them. "Is that an Ignitaur? And why the hell did you set the forest on fire?! It¡¯ll spread!"


    "No, it won¡¯t," Zarik said, his voice steady despite the chaos. "The moisture at dawn will put it out."


    Lakan exhaled sharply, scanning the battlefield. "Good, all of the great warriors were here¡± he said, stepping forward. "Let''s kill that Ignitaur."


    Dalangpan narrowed his eyes. "You look exhausted, and you''re proposing that?"


    "There¡¯s no time, Uncle," Lakan said, cracking his neck. "We need to work together to kill that Ignitaur. Let¡¯s go!"


    "Wai¡ªthat¡¯s an Ignitaur!" Baloga barked.


    But Lakan had already launched himself forward, sprinting straight at the rampaging beast.


    Zarik smirked. "What¡¯s wrong, Baloga? Chickening out?"


    Baloga scowled. "You¡¯re getting good at pissing me off¡ªhell no! Who¡¯s chickening out?!"


    "Then let¡¯s go! If you want to remain in this land that our comrades died for!" Zarik roared.

 Chapter 15: Monster Wave Defense – The Battle with the Ignitaur (2)

    ¡°Wow! We can see the four Great Warriors and Lakan fight for real!¡±


    ¡°But their opponent is a Minotaur¡­ do they even stand a chance?¡±


    ¡°They have to! They¡¯re strong¡ªbelieve in them!¡±


    The air was thick with tension, the weight of the battle pressing down on every soul watching. This was no ordinary fight¡ªthis was survival.


    If they failed, the Minotaur would tear through them like a force of nature, leaving behind only ruin and death. No mercy. No retreat. Their fate balanced on the edge of a blade.


    Lakan stood at the front, his heart pounding like a war drum, his grip tightening around his weapon. His breath was steady. There was no room for fear.


    Behind him, the four Great Warriors exchanged determined glances, their bodies thrumming with battle-ready energy.


    Then¡ª


    They moved.


    In a single, explosive moment, they charged forward, their war cries shaking the battlefield. Steel met the roar of the beast.


    The fight for survival had begun.


    Lakan and Zarik gathered all their Ki into their hearts, feeling it throb like a war drum¡ªsteady, powerful, unrelenting. Then, with a forceful release, the energy surged through their bodies, sharpening their senses, reinforcing their muscles. Their movements became fluid, deadly.


    "Heart Ki."


    Baloga, running close behind, shut his eyes for a moment. He steadied his breath, then let his blood surge. His veins pulsed, muscles tensed, power coursing through his body beyond its natural limits.


    "Blood Surge."


    Drogath threw his head back and roared, his voice echoing across the battlefield as he invoked the name of his god. "HAAAH! O mighty Gorzhul, bless this warrior¡¯s spirit with strength!"


    Dalangpan tightened his grip around his warhammer, his fingers pressing firmly against the worn handle. As his palms met the weapon¡¯s surface, a surge of understanding flowed through him. Every groove, every weight shift, every balance point¡ªit all became an extension of his body. Closing his eyes, he let the weapon speak to him, its essence unraveling in his mind.


    "Weapon Master."


    Without hesitation, the four Great Warriors and Lakan unleashed their techniques. There was no holding back¡ªthis was a fight to the death.


    Sensing the surge of power in his enemies, the Minotaur bellowed in rage. Flames crackled along his massive form as he gathered all his fire energy into his throat. A massive fireball ignited in his mouth, growing larger by the second.


    Then¡ªhe hurled it at them.


    Lakan''s eyes widened. "Dirt Wall!" he shouted, slamming his hands into the ground.


    A thick earthen barrier erupted just in time, absorbing the fireball¡¯s impact. The explosion sent a shockwave tearing through the battlefield, hurling debris in all directions and engulfing the warriors in a dense, suffocating dust cloud.


    Zarik and Baloga seized the moment.


    ¡°Now!¡± Zarik whispered, his voice barely audible over the dying roar of the blast.


    Without hesitation, the two warriors lunged through the swirling dust, their blades poised to sever the Minotaur¡¯s legs in a single, decisive strike.


    But¡ª


    BOOM! CRACK!


    The Minotaur¡¯s hoof slammed into the ground with earth-shattering force. A violent tremor ripped through the battlefield as jagged fissures split the land beneath them. Lakan and the four Great Warriors staggered, struggling to keep their footing as the ground buckled beneath them. They barely managed to leap back in time, stumbling as the cracks widened at their feet.


    "This damn monster!" Baloga growled, gritting his teeth.


    Then, without warning, the Minotaur charged. His massive club arced through the air¡ªonly to stop abruptly.


    A feint.


    His hulking arm twisted mid-motion, muscles coiling like steel cords, and in an instant, another fireball ignited in his mouth, its furious glow illuminating the battlefield. Flames crackled along his tusks, the air around him distorting with searing heat.


    Lakan¡¯s heart dropped. He reacted a second too late. ¡°Shit¡ªDirt Wa¡ª¡±


    ¡°Move aside!¡± Dalangpan¡¯s voice cut through the chaos.


    With a mighty roar, he swung his warhammer into a loosened boulder¡ªthe same one the Minotaur¡¯s stomp had dislodged moments before. The colossal rock tore through the air like a meteor, colliding with the fireball mid-flight. Flames sputtered and died against the stone¡¯s surface, but the boulder did not stop. It kept going¡ªhurtling straight toward the Minotaur with unstoppable force.


    Drogath¡¯s eyes gleamed with fierce determination.


    Now¡¯s my chance.


    With a burst of speed, he sprinted toward the Minotaur, his powerful strides keeping pace with the massive rock. Dust and embers swirled around him, the battlefield trembling beneath his feet. Then, just as the boulder was about to make contact¡ª.


    Startled the Minotaur quickly swing his club down to the boulder. Then¡ª.


    Drogath leaped¡ª.


    SWIISH!


    Drogath¡¯s swing downward his club carved through the air like a falling meteor¡ª


    BOOM!


    The strike smashed against the Minotaur¡¯s skull with a thunderous crack, forcing the massive beast to reel backward. Its hooves scraped against the earth, kicking up dirt as it struggled to steady itself.


    Yet, despite the sheer power behind the blow, the Minotaur did not fall.


    Drogath gritted his teeth. "Shit, this guy¡¯s tough." then return quickly for safety


    The Ignitaur recovered instantly, its body unscathed, and locked eyes with Drogath, its gaze burning with murderous intent. With a deafening snort, it charged, its hooves pounding the ground like thunder. As it closed in, the Minotaur¡¯s massive club began to rise¡ª


    ¡°Mud Flow!¡± Lakan shouted, his hands flashing with energy.


    The earth beneath the Minotaur lurched and softened, swallowing its legs in an instant.


    ¡°It¡¯s stuck! Everyone, now¡ªleap and kill it!¡± Zarik bellowed.


    Lakan, without wasting a second, focused his energy and retrieved the mana he had spent to harden the ground once more, locking the Minotaur in place.


    The four warriors launched into the air, their weapons gleaming in the firelight, poised for a decisive strike.


    But¡ª


    With a guttural snarl, the Minotaur slammed its club into the ground with earth-shattering force. The impact sent a violent shockwave rippling outward, hurling its attackers back. Dust and debris exploded into the air as the beast tore itself free.


    Then¡ª


    "ROOOOAARRR!"


    The Minotaur¡¯s furious roar ripped through the battlefield, a sonic blast that sent a crippling shock through their bodies.


    ¡°Ahh!¡± Drogath and Dalangpan staggered, clutching their heads as the sound pierced their skulls like jagged blades.


    ¡°Shit, it ruptured my ear!¡± Baloga cursed, his vision blurring from the pain.


    DRIP!


    Blood trickled from Lakan and Zarik¡¯s noses. Their heightened senses had made the blow far worse, the pain relentless.


    ¡°Everyone, use your healing potions!¡± Baloga shouted. Drinking half of his potion.


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    But Zarik and Lakan didn¡¯t respond¡ªthe two were still writhing in agony, their heads pounding from the devastating sonic blast.


    Baloga¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Drogath, Dalangpan¡ªgo help them! I¡¯ll hold off the Ignitaur. This thing won¡¯t die unless we go all out!¡±


    With a roar, Baloga launched forward, his muscles tensing as his blood pumped like fire through his veins.


    ¡°Blood Rush!¡±


    A surge of power exploded through his body¡ªhis eyes flared crimson, his hair bleached white in an instant, and his movements became a blur.


    The Ignitaur snarled, locking eyes with him. In a flash, it swung its massive club in a brutal sideward arc, aiming to crush him in one blow.


    Baloga ducked low, the wind from the swing screaming past his head as the club barely missed, shattering the ground behind him. Baloga manage to avoid and went straight to the Ignitaur¡¯s crotch.


    The Ignitaur reacted instantly to Baloga¡¯s attack, raising its knee in a brutal counterstrike.


    But Baloga was already too close. The knee slammed into his torso, but with little momentum, it lacked the force to break him. Gritting his teeth through the impact, Baloga lunged forward and thrust his sword straight into the Ignitaur¡¯s crotch.


    "ROOOOAAAARRR!"


    The Ignitaur¡¯s agonized bellow shook the battlefield. It threw its head back, horns slicing through the air, and stomped wildly, sending cracks spider webbing across the ground. Its muscles convulsed, and it lashed out, swinging its arms in a frenzy, desperate to crush anything nearby.


    Baloga took a direct hit, one of the Ignitaur¡¯s wild swings crashing into him with bone-crushing force. He twisted his body mid-air, raising his arm in a desperate attempt to block, but the sheer power of the blow still sent him flying.


    He slammed into the ground, his arm bent at a sickening angle, his jaw hanging loosely from the impact.


    ¡°Hahaha! Oops¡ªlooks like the next generation just got cut off.¡± Baloga grinned through the pain, his voice strained as his broken arm dangled uselessly at his side.


    Without hesitation, he ripped the last healing potion from his belt, downing it in one gulp while gritting his teeth and forcefully snapping his jaw back into place.


    "Damn, this healing potion is a lifesaver. Hey, you sissies¡ªare you done patching yourselves up? Get off your asses and help me out here!" he barked.


    As the potion worked its magic, his arm straightened, bones snapping back together, his jaw realigning perfectly. Strength surged back into his limbs.


    Meanwhile, at the base...


    The group had taken refuge in a hidden cave, the same place Lakan had used for his grueling training. The air inside was thick with tension, the distant sounds of battle echoing in the night.


    Elder Ulganar stood before them, his voice steady yet solemn.


    ¡°Everyone, let us pray for the warriors risking their lives for our safety.¡±


    The flickering firelight danced against the cave walls, and in that moment, the refuges bowed their heads, their silent prayers carrying the weight of hope and survival.


    Meanwhile, on the battlefield...


    The battle raged on.


    Injured warriors, now back on their feet, rallied once more, charging back into the fray. Those left on the fortified walls, with no monsters left to fight, watched in tense silence, their eyes locked onto the brutal clash between the five warriors and the Minotaur-like beast.


    ¡°Lakan! Sir Orrin sent you something!¡± Azrath¡¯s voice cut through the chaos.


    Without hesitation, he hurled the vial through the air.


    Still reeling from the battle, Lakan steadied himself, his breath ragged. He clenched his jaw, forced his aching limbs to move, and snatched the bomb just before it could slip past his fingers.


    ¡°That¡¯s a stink bomb! Leader Orrin said to get it to you!¡± Azrath called out.


    Lakan¡¯s grip tightened around the vial, his mind racing. This was it. The chance they needed. His eyes sharpened, burning with fierce determination.


    ¡°Alright! Fall back now!¡± he barked.


    The four Great Warriors wasted no time. Like a storm of steel and fury, they launched themselves at the wounded Ignitaur. Their weapons struck in perfect, merciless rhythm¡ªeach blow landing with devastating precision, each strike calculated to break the beast down piece by piece.


    Lakan raised his sword high, the fire in his veins matching the inferno in his eyes.


    "Make me an opening!" he commanded, his voice ringing with authority.


    Dalangpan gritted his teeth and pushed himself to the absolute limit. Muscles tensed, his grip tightened around his weapon, and with a mighty roar, he unleashed his full power.


    "Weapon Mastery: Advance!"


    The battlefield trembled as his energy surged, ready to carve a path straight to victory.


    His body shifted, muscles adapting to wield his warhammer with unparalleled precision. With a mighty swing, he slammed it into the earth¡ª


    BOOM!


    The ground cracked beneath the force, sending violent tremors through the battlefield. The Ignitaur staggered, struggling to stay upright as the earth betrayed its footing.


    Seizing the moment, Zarik let out a roar and surged forward like a predator closing in on its prey.


    "Ki Constitution!"


    His body transformed¡ªhis form becoming sleeker, more feline. His fangs lengthened, his claws sharpened, and his muscles coiled, ready to strike. Ki surged through his veins like a raging storm, making his movements fluid and deadly.


    With blinding speed, he darted toward the stumbling Ignitaur, claws gleaming, ready to tear through its defenses.


    The Minotaur swung its club in a desperate counterattack, but Zarik twisted out of the way, dodging just in time. However, the beast was relentless¡ªit slammed into him with a powerful shoulder bash, sending him flying.


    Zarik hit the ground hard, coughing up dust, but he gritted his teeth and pushed himself back up. His eyes burned with determination¡ªhe wasn¡¯t done yet.


    The Ignitaur threw back its head, fire gathering in its throat, preparing to unleash another devastating blast.


    Zarik **acted first¡ª**he hurled his sword straight at the Minotaur¡¯s face!


    The Ignitaur snarled and twisted aside, dodging the incoming blade. But then¡ª


    "FIGHTING SPIRIT!"


    Drogath¡¯s voice boomed across the battlefield, shaking the very air with its raw intensity. His muscles coiled like steel, veins pulsing as an unrelenting surge of power ignited his aura, sending waves of heat and fury rippling outward.


    All fear was gone¡ªburned away in the inferno of battle.


    Only unshakable courage remained.


    Seizing the moment, Drogath roared and charged¡ªan unstoppable force of sheer might.


    Like a living avalanche, he slammed into the Ignitaur, his brutal shoulder tackle colliding with bone-crushing force. The beast lurched, its massive body torn from its footing as Drogath drove it into the dirt!


    Lakan, still gripping the stink bomb tightly, watched in stunned awe.


    ¡°So this is why they¡¯re called Great Warriors¡­¡± he muttered under his breath.


    "NOW, LAKAN!" Drogath¡¯s voice thundered as his arms wrapped around the struggling beast, locking it in place with unyielding strength.


    Lakan sprang into action, feet pounding against the battlefield as he sprinted forward¡ªbut the moment he neared¡ª


    ¡°AGH! Damn it, he¡¯s burning hot!¡± Drogath gritted his teeth, his grip faltering as blistering heat seared his skin.


    ¡°Drogath! Fall back¡ªNOW!¡± Lakan barked, forcing his hands into a spell.


    ¡°Mud Flow!¡±


    Drip.


    Blood trickled from Lakan¡¯s nose, his vision momentarily swimming as the spell¡¯s strain gnawed at his mind.


    The ground beneath the Ignitaur quivered¡ªthen collapsed into thick, shifting mud!


    BOOM!


    The beast¡¯s fiery energy exploded outward, a violent shockwave sending mud flying in every direction. Steam hissed, embers crackled¡ªbut the Ignitaur¡¯s power was fading. It struggled to rise, remembering¡ª**too well¡ª**what had happened last time.


    Lakan wiped the blood from his nose, his breathing ragged but his resolve unshaken. His gaze locked onto his target.


    ¡°Drogath, throw me at it!¡±


    Drogath didn¡¯t hesitate.


    With a primal growl, he snatched Lakan up and, with a monstrous burst of strength, hurled him straight at the trapped Ignitaur!


    At the same time, Zarik and Baloga burst forward¡ªtwin streaks of razor-sharp steel, their blades gleaming like moonlit death.


    The Ignitaur snarled, molten eyes flashing as it raised a hand, flames twisting around its clawed fingers¡ª


    But Dalangpan was faster.


    With a deafening roar, he ripped a boulder from the earth and hurled it with all his might. The massive rock tore through the air like a meteor, slamming into the Ignitaur¡¯s side with a sickening crunch. The beast staggered, its spell snuffed out as its balance shattered.


    Zarik and Baloga didn¡¯t waste a second.


    They charged at full speed, their blades carving brutal arcs through the air. The steel bit into the Ignitaur¡¯s legs, slicing through its thick hide. The wounds weren¡¯t deep, but they didn¡¯t need to be¡ªthis wasn¡¯t about taking it down.


    It was all to set up Lakan.


    Lakan landed perfectly, his hands gripping onto the Ignitaur¡¯s massive head as he clung on for dear life.


    "Shit! You¡¯re burning up¡ª" he gritted his teeth, the searing heat licking at his skin. Every nerve screamed in agony, but he refused to let go.


    With a swift, desperate motion, he jammed the stink bomb into the beast¡¯s nostrils and clenched it tight.


    Then¡ª


    "Fireball!"


    Flames erupted from his palm, igniting the bomb inside the Ignitaur¡¯s nose.


    ROAAAR!


    The Ignitaur thrashed violently, its bellow shaking the battlefield. Blood and mucus streamed from its burning nostrils, the acrid stench of scorched flesh filling the air. It howled in agony, swinging its massive arms blindly, its claws slashing at the empty air, trying¡ªdesperate¡ªto rip Lakan off.


    But Lakan held on.


    ¡°Fireball! Fireball! FIREBALL!¡±


    Each blast of flame detonated against the beast¡¯s face, scorching, blistering, burning. His vision blurred, his lungs felt like they were collapsing, and blood dripped from his nose and mouth from the sheer strain of his magic.


    Yet he roared through the pain.


    ¡°ATTACK NOW!¡± Dalangpan¡¯s voice thundered over the battlefield.


    The four Great Warriors charged as one.


    Blades bit into flesh, carving deep, merciless wounds. Warhammers crashed down, shattering bone with sickening force. Clubs smashed into muscle, pulverizing sinew beneath their relentless assault. Again and again, they struck¡ªunstoppable, unyielding, merciless.


    The Ignitaur reeled, its monstrous body convulsing as fresh wounds tore across its hide. It tried to fight back, to shake them off, but its movements grew sluggish. Blood poured from its ravaged body, pooling beneath it. Its strength¡ªonce overwhelming¡ªwas fading.


    Then¡ª


    With one final, earth-shaking roar, the beast collapsed.


    A thunderous boom echoed across the battlefield as its massive frame hit the ground, dust and debris billowing into the sky. For a moment, everything was still. No more thrashing. No more deafening roars.


    The Ignitaur was dead.


    The battle was over.


    Their struggle¡ª**their pain, their sacrifice, their relentless fight for survival¡ª**had paid off.


    Lakan swayed, his vision tunneling, before his body finally gave out. He collapsed, unconscious, the weight of exhaustion crushing him like an unseen force.


    As the sun crept over the horizon, its golden light breaking through the fading night, a new day began.


    They had survived.


    The first day of the Monster Wave was over.

 Continent of Mahazrethia

    Hello everyone, this is the author! I¡¯m excited to share with you a map of the continent of Frecunder to help bring the world to life and provide a better visualization of its vast lands, kingdoms, and mysteries.


    As the story unfolds, you¡¯ll explore Frecunder¡¯s towering peaks, sprawling empires, and uncharted wilds. This map serves as a guide to the lands where legends are forged and destinies are shaped.


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

 Chapter 16: The Veiled Savior

    Deep within the cave¡ªthe refuge for those unfit for combat¡ªLakan jolted awake, his breath ragged. His body tensed, instincts screaming danger.


    ¡°HAAH! Where¡¯s the Ignitaur?!¡± His head snapped from side to side, eyes wide with panic. The last thing he remembered was the battlefield¡ªflames, steel, and then darkness.


    "Lakan, you''re awake!" Thorgana¡¯s voice was steady, tinged with relief. She sat beside him, her watchful gaze unwavering. ¡°The Ignitaur has already been defeated. There¡¯s no need to worry.¡±


    Lakan exhaled sharply, his body trembling as the echoes of battle lingered in his mind.


    ¡°Rest, my boy,¡± came the deep, reassuring voice of Elder Ulganar. ¡°Your mana was completely drained. You need time to recover.¡±


    ¡°I need to go¡ªI need to help them!¡± Lakan struggled to sit up, his determination burning despite the exhaustion in his limbs.


    Elder Ulganar sighed, his gaze firm yet understanding. ¡°As I just said, they are holding their ground. If you must see for yourself, you may look¡ªbut you will not interfere. Right now, your only task is to recover. I will not have the future leader of our people throwing himself into battle recklessly.¡±


    Lakan clenched his jaw, frustration flickering in his eyes. But he knew Ulganar was right. For now, he had no choice but to endure the waiting. He forced himself to his feet, making his way to the cave''s entrance, his heart pounding as he surveyed the battlefield.


    ¡°Hey! What are you doing here? You should be resting!¡± Baloga¡¯s voice rang out, firm and filled with concern. ¡°You took severe damage¡ªpushing yourself any further will only strain your mind.¡±


    A Healing Potion could mend wounds and ease physical exhaustion, but it could not mend the toll battle took on the spirit. The use of advanced techniques did not just push the body¡ªit demanded just as much from the mind. Lakan had already given everything in the fight against the Ignitaur. If he did not allow himself time to recover, even his strength would not be enough to carry him forward.


    "I just wanted to check on the situation," Lakan replied. "And to be here in case something unexpected happens."


    Baloga sighed, crossing his arms. "Fine. But at least help me command the troops. We''re still holding the line with paralyzing powder, but at this rate, we''ll run out before nightfall. We used too much on the first day."


    Lakan frowned. "Won''t things be easier now that the worst of the monsters have been dealt with?"


    Baloga shook his head. "Yes¡ªbut our warriors have been fighting nonstop. Exhaustion will set in, and fatigue is just as deadly as any beast. We need to ease their burden. I suggest rotations¡ªsome will rest while others take up guard duty. Most of our forces are stationed around the moat, so we can afford to let some recover while keeping our defenses strong."


    Lakan nodded, considering the plan. "That could work. But we still need Great Warriors on the battlefield. If we rotate them¡ªtwo each night¡ªwe¡¯ll ensure experienced fighters are always leading the warriors"


    Baloga exhaled sharply, the tension in his shoulders easing just a little. "Then it''s settled. Now, help me command the troops¡ªthe other Great Warriors are still fighting at the frontlines."


    "The two ascended the wall, the battlefield stretching before them like a shifting sea of bodies and steel. From their vantage point, they could see everything¡ªthe Great Warriors fighting the monsters in the open field before the wall, the warriors at the wall dealing with the monsters that slipped past the Great Warriors, the creatures shrieking in defiance, and the waves of monsters still pouring in."


    "Hold the line!" Baloga bellowed, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Use the powder wisely¡ªrelease it in intervals! Make it last!"


    Lakan joined in, directing squads to reinforce weak points, ensuring the most fatigued warriors were pulled back to recover. Though their forces were dwindling, their strategy held strong. The battle raged on through the second day, but as the sun dipped below the horizon, the last of the monsters fell.


    A hush settled over the battlefield¡ªan eerie silence after hours of bloodshed. Then, a cry rose from the warriors¡ªa victory cry.


    They had survived. The second day of the Monster Wave was over.


    ***************************


    Meanwhile, at the dawn of the first day of the Monster Wave, the outskirts of Duke Cassius'' southern territory in Themura stirred with a different kind of threat.


    The Malzar Empire¡¯s Third Prince had set his plan in motion. Every preparation had been made, every step calculated. And the first to feel the brunt of his ambition was the Kingdom of Themura.


    At the war council, Count Evermont studied the gathered forces, his fingers drumming against his sword¡¯s pommel. "We should begin. Viscount Beaufort, are your troops prepared?"


    The Viscount gave a curt nod. "Knight Darius¡¯s plan of using slaves for infiltration is exceptional. Expect a swift victory, Count Evermont."


    The higher-ranked nobles had made their move. Those of lesser status¡ªyet vast wealth¡ªwere sent to the front lines. Disposable shields for those in power. And so, with their orders given and their fates sealed, the invasion of the Kingdom of Themura began.


    ¡°We should start our invasion Viscount Beaufort¡± Count Evermont said. The viscount and the count was the one who was task to be the frontline, the higher rank nobles wanted to use them as they are wealthy even being a low rank noble.


    ¡°Then shall we proceed with the plan Knight Darius plan of invasion using the slaves was exceptional, expect a great win Count Evermont¡± Viscount Beaufort said.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s begin this invasion¡± Count Evermont said.


    The invasion will begin once Knight Commander Darius and the slaves infiltrate the duchy. They will wait for the Monster Wave to pass, then strike at dawn, when the enemy forces are weary. Once the time comes, they will open the gates, unleashing the knights for the final assault.


    Knight Commander Darius stood with arms crossed, his gaze sharp as he assessed his troops. "Are the men ready? We will proceed with the invasion once final checks are complete. What about your end, Knight Commander Alric?"


    Alric, clad in gleaming armor, met his gaze with a smirk. "The knights and mages stand ready. Then you should begin your infiltration before everyone will die."


    The two commanders locked eyes, tension thick between them. This invasion had to succeed. Failure was not an option.


    Darius straightened, though a faint gulp betrayed his nerves. ¡°Then I will proceed with the infiltration. Await my signal.¡± He turned to the ragged line of captives behind him¡ªhis expendable pawns. His eyes flickered with unease for the briefest moment before he hardened his expression. "Slaves, prepare to move! We will infiltrate the capital."


    Darius and the slaves marched toward the city gates, the prisoners shackled together in heavy chains, while the knights sat comfortably inside the carriage. But what the knights didn¡¯t know was that the slaves chained closest to the carriage were no ordinary captives¡ªthey were warrior slaves. And worse, they had the key to their locks.


    Inside the carriage, the knights spoke in hushed yet arrogant tones, oblivious to the danger lurking just outside.


    ¡°This will be an easy war for us. Our disguise as slave merchants is flawless.¡±


    ¡°Hah! They won¡¯t suspect a thing. Look at all these slaves¡ªdifferent races, different backgrounds. They¡¯ll never realize they¡¯re just paw¡ª¡±


    Before the knight could finish his sentence, chaos erupted.


    The warrior slaves moved in a flash, slipping free from their chains and storming the carriage. Thud! A fist smashed into a knight¡¯s face, sending blood splattering against the wooden walls. Smack! Another knight reeled as a powerful kick cracked his ribs.


    ¡°Wha¡ª?! Attack! We¡¯re under attack!¡± one of them cried, but it was too late.


    The slaves fought with relentless fury, their pent-up rage fueling every brutal strike. Crack! A neck snapped, followed by a strangled gasp. The knights tried to resist, but they were overwhelmed, their finely honed skills useless against the sheer, unbridled force of their captors-turned-executioners.


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    Within moments, the carriage fell silent¡ªsave for the ragged breaths of the victorious slaves, standing over the bodies of their former masters.


    "We''re done, sir. What should we do now?" a demonkin asked the man driving the carriage.


    Darius didn¡¯t turn to look at him. "We''re going to the Umbrania Territory. Tell the other slaves, but don¡¯t waste time with questions. First, we head to the border between Umbrania and Ardenhold. We''ll hire mercenaries to make it look like we have security. That¡¯s it¡ªjust do as you''re told. I¡¯m only doing this because of the consequences," he snapped.


    The demonkin hesitated before speaking again. "But what about the Watchers? Don¡¯t they keep an eye on us after we complete our mission?"


    Darius let out a slow, irritated sigh. "What¡¯s your name?"


    "Zareth, sir," the demonkin answered.


    Darius narrowed his eyes. "You are now the leader of the slaves. That damn beastman swore he''d handle it. No more questions. Just follow me and obey my orders. Or do you not want freedom?" His voice was sharp, his frustration evident in the tightness of his jaw. Then, his expression darkened. "Damn that beastman... How did he manage to kidnap my only son?"


    Zareth lowered his head. "Yes, sir." Without another word, he turned and rejoined the other slaves.


    The group pressed on, their journey relentless. Without stopping to rest, their disguises intact¡ªa merchant and his slaves, nothing more. The sun hung heavy in the afternoon sky as unseen forces stirred.


    At a hidden outpost, the forces of Viscount Beaufort and Count Evermont stood in wait. Silence filled the air, thick with anticipation. Then, the faint flutter of wings broke it¡ªa small pigeon descended, a parchment tied to its foot.


    Viscount Beaufort caught the bird, untying the message with swift fingers. As he read, a grin tugged at his lips. "Oho, they successfully infiltrated. Now we wait for the signal at dawn. For now, let¡¯s take cover¡ªMonster Wave will begin soon."


    The forces moved swiftly, disappearing into the jagged cliffs under the cover of night. The day passed, and as the first light of dawn crept over the horizon, the true battle loomed. They waited, tense and ready, for the signal to attack¡ªbut no matter how long they held their breath, the signal never came.


    ¡°Why is there no smoke signal? Didn¡¯t they already infiltrate? What happened to them?¡± Viscount Beaufort¡¯s voice was laced with frustration, his sharp gaze scanning the horizon. His fingers curled into fists. Something was wrong.


    ¡°Hey! Where is the watcher?¡± he barked.


    A soldier rushed forward, his posture stiff. ¡°Sir, you called for me?¡±


    Beaufort turned to him, his tone edged with impatience. ¡°Why is there still no signal? You told me they had already infiltrated.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the watcher said, swallowing hard. ¡°I saw them enter the gate with my own eyes¡­ but I don¡¯t know why the signal hasn¡¯t come.¡±


    ¡°Damn it¡­ where are you, Darius?¡± Viscount Beaufort growled, his rage barely contained. His hands trembled with frustration. The situation was spiraling out of control.


    Darius¡ªthe commander of the Beaufort forces, the mastermind behind this entire plan¡ªhad led the infiltration himself. Yet, there was still no signal. No sign of success. The plan was falling apart before his eyes.


    ¡°Viscount Beaufort,¡± a sharp voice cut through the tense air. Count Evermont strode forward, his expression dark with suspicion. ¡°What is happening? Why is there still no smoke signal? I was assured this invasion would be a success with your commander¡¯s plan. I even sacrificed some of my slaves for this infiltration. Don¡¯t tell me they were discovered by the enemy.¡±


    Beaufort clenched his jaw. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on¡­ Darius is a capable man. By now, the mission should have been completed.¡±


    Count Evermont¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°This blunder will not go unnoticed. The Prince will despise us for this failure. Fix it¡ªimmediately. And if you can¡¯t, come up with an excuse for Prince Droskar before he decides we are more trouble than we¡¯re worth.¡±


    "This is the second time I''ve lost both my slaves and an invasion! Why have both campaigns ended in failure?!" he snarled. "Not only did we fail to conquer, but it cost me dearly!"


    His eyes burned with fury as he turned to his attendants. "Summon the Watchers. Have them infiltrate the Duchy and find Darius¡ªno matter what it takes."


    The invasion had crumbled into yet another disaster. The two forces had been forced to retreat, abandoning their ambitions along with the bodies of their fallen. But they did not leave empty-handed¡ªthe Watchers remained in the shadows, slipping through the cracks of the enemy¡¯s stronghold, seeking the elusive Commander Darius.


    Failure was not an option. If they could not offer the prince a worthy explanation, punishment would be swift... and merciless.


    On the fourth day of the Monster Wave, Darius and his slaves had successfully hired a band of mercenaries and made their way toward the Kingdom of Umbrania, skillfully avoiding and hiding from the monstrous threats that roamed the land.


    As they finally crossed the borders of Umbrania, Darius turned to the mercenaries, his voice firm and commanding.


    "We have arrived in the Kingdom of Umbrania. Our next destination is Goomsveil Forest. Your job as mercenaries will be complete once we reach the forest. There, I will give you your reward."


    One of the mercenaries smirked. "Sounds easy enough. As long as we get paid, we¡¯ll do as you say."


    Darius nodded. "Then it¡¯s a deal."


    The mercenary eyed the slaves warily before speaking again. "So tell me, why are you hauling this many slaves into the forest?"


    Slavery on this continent was strictly controlled, considered the exclusive property of individuals or noble households. A merchant transporting slaves into the depths of a forest, away from the watchful eyes of the aristocracy, would immediately raise suspicion. Many would assume the slaves had been stolen¡ªespecially in a land where nearly all non-human races had already been subjected to chains.


    Darius met the mercenary¡¯s gaze with an unreadable expression. "Have you heard of the escaped slaves from the fallen House of Baron Capet? After his house was absorbed by Viscount Beaufort, many of his slaves vanished into the shadows. These here¡­ they are those escapees. The Viscount has granted me exclusive rights to sell them. However, they are considered ''defective''¡ªworthless in their current state. I intend to change that by honing their strength in the forest, increasing their value before they are sold."


    The mercenary let out a low chuckle. "Oho, so you''re quite the wealthy merchant, aren¡¯t you? We¡¯ll be expecting a hefty reward, then."


    Darius smirked, pulling out a finely crafted badge and holding it up for them to see. The emblem of House Beaufort gleamed under the dim light. "How does thirty gold sound? A generous sum for mere escort work. You can look at this badge¡ªproof of my association with Viscount Beaufort. I am no mere merchant making empty promises."


    The mercenary¡¯s eyes gleamed with greed. "Now that¡¯s an offer I like. You won¡¯t regret hiring us." He cracked his knuckles and gestured toward the road ahead. "Shall we begin our journey?"


    Darius turned, his cloak billowing slightly in the cold night wind. "Then let¡¯s go."


    The group pressed on with their journey to the Feyveil Forest, a vast woodland at the heart of the Umbrania Kingdom, where monsters of all kinds roamed. This ancient forest, shrouded in mist and mystery, was both feared and revered¡ªa place where only the brave dared to tread.


    ****************************


    After days of relentless battle, the fortress had withstood the last Monster Wave. The enemy had been repelled, and for now, their home remained safe.


    ¡°We did it! We defended our home!¡±


    ¡°At last, we can rest¡­ though we must be ready. Another wave will come eventually.¡±


    The warriors, exhausted but victorious, cheered and embraced one another. The people who had taken refuge emerged from hiding, their voices rising in celebration. Their new home, once a place of uncertainty, now felt secure.


    Yet, amidst the revelry, one man remained apart.


    Lakan sat in the shadows against the fortress wall, watching his comrades rejoice. His heart was heavy with thoughts beyond this single victory. As he brooded in silence, a young beastman boy approached him hesitantly.


    ¡°Thank you for protecting us,¡± the boy said, his voice soft but sincere.


    Lakan glanced at him and smiled faintly. ¡°You''re welcome, kid. But why aren¡¯t you celebrating with the others? You should eat¡ªgrow strong.¡±


    The boy shook his head. ¡°I saw you sitting alone, so I wanted to keep you company. I didn¡¯t want you to be lonely.¡±


    Lakan chuckled, a warm but weary sound. ¡°That¡¯s kind of you. I was just¡­ thinking.¡±


    A brief silence passed before the boy spoke again.


    ¡°Can I ask you something?¡±


    Lakan turned to him. ¡°Go ahead.¡±


    The boy¡¯s hands clenched into fists. ¡°How can I join the warriors? I want to fight those humans.¡±


    Lakan''s expression darkened. ¡°Becoming a warrior isn¡¯t easy. You have to be strong. But tell me¡ªwhy do you want to fight them so badly?¡±


    The boy¡¯s golden eyes burned with rage and sorrow.


    ¡°They killed my mother and father.¡±


    His voice trembled, but his resolve did not.


    Lakan studied him for a long moment. He had seen that look before¡ªthe same fire that once burned within himself.


    And he knew where it led. Lakan studied the boy for a moment before speaking.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name, boy?¡±


    The child met his gaze without hesitation. ¡°Kadlum.¡±


    Lakan nodded. ¡°And what about your dream?¡±


    Kadlum¡¯s expression softened, but his voice carried the weight of sorrow and determination.


    ¡°I just want us to live freely,¡± he said. ¡°I don¡¯t want any more mothers and fathers to cry because they can¡¯t give their children a happy life.¡±


    Lakan felt a pang in his chest. Such words, spoken from the heart of a child, carried more strength than any warrior¡¯s blade.


    He placed a firm hand on Kadlum¡¯s shoulder, offering a reassuring smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll make that happen.¡±


    It was not just his dream¡ªit was the dream of many. A vision of peace, of freedom, of a world where no child had to bear such sorrow.


    Lakan¡¯s resolve burned brighter than ever, fueled by the same dream he had once shared with his father. He would not let it fade. He would see it through.


    The first step toward true freedom was to create a safe haven for the oppressed¡ªa place where they could reclaim their dignity and carve their name into history. In a world dominated by humans and elves, where beastmen and other races were forced into servitude, the flames of rebellion would be kindled here, on this very continent.


    At the heart of this rising storm stood Lakan¡ªnot just a dreamer, but a warrior whose unwavering resolve and exceptional talent would turn hope into action. Through sheer perseverance, he would forge a path where none existed, leading his people toward a future they had long been denied.