Year 1, Summer, Third Month, Second Week.

Grandma Marlen observed the bounty brought in by Karl and his team with excitement. "Well," she remarked. "These kids have really outdone themselves this time. We'll have enough for a grand feast, and each family can have a little extra to take home."

Old Bill, standing nearby, couldn't hide his pride, especially since his granddaughters had now joined the ranks of the young hunters. "I must say, they've gone beyond what I expected. Maybe it's time we reassessed our plans," he mused.

Observing from a distance, Omero wore a calculating smile as he gazed in the direction of Karl's hut. "You're both still underestimating the impact that boy will have on our village."

As the elders talked, Karl and his companions enjoyed their hard-earned reward: sleeping through the morning.

In the afternoon, Karl found himself among a group of villagers tasked with processing the game. His role was fundamental, as he had to instruct them on handling the meat and bones to ensure maximum nutrient absorption, a knowledge attributed to a certain magic book that was actually learned from Master AI. This time, dealing with wind beast meat required special preparation, and Karl was eager to test a new tool he had designed to aid in the cooking process.

With the tool ready for testing, Karl faced the villagers, who looked back at him with worry. "Alright, let's see how this works. Who's brave enough to give it a try?" he asked with a hopeful grin.

The villagers hesitated, excitement battling with their fear of magic. Just then, Grandma Marlen arrived with helpers, carrying the meat. She looked at the hesitant crowd and chuckled. "Oh, let this old woman show you how it's done. The years haven't taken away my courage. Karl, dear, show me how to operate your magic tool."

Karl responded with an amused, gentle smile, beginning to guide Grandma Marlen through the process. "It's simple, really. Just place the wind and energy crystals atop these Arrays here."

Marlen followed his directions, and as she did, a soft glow emanated from the drawings, and the airflow within the MAC, short for Magic Air Cooker, intensified. The villagers watched awestruck as their initial fear gave way to fascination at the sight of magic in the working.

The village square was filled with excitement as the villagers gathered around the newly crafted tool. Their eyes widened in astonishment as they observed the tool, not much different from the WET they had seen before, but to them, it was another marvel brought to life by Karl.

The complex Direct Properties Array had been drawn onto a stone, but this time, instead of using a water crystal as he did for the WET, he used a wind crystal. This clever adaptation would increase airflow when the Array was powered, making the MAC a great tool for air cooking.

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After Marlen made the first test, the villagers lined up to try too. Everyone was eager to see the MAC in action. To enhance the stimulation of the wind properties, the meat needed more exposure to the airflow and less to the heat. So, they had positioned the stone with the Array above the large stone traditionally used for earth cooking.

The villagers carefully avoided placing the meat directly on the rocks or soil, as the conflicting properties of wind and earth elements could potentially disrupt the cooking process. For such, the meat was placed on a bamboo stick support, ingeniously designed with gaps to allow better air circulation, and then fixated above the heated stone.

As the fire was lit and the base stone warmed up, a hot breeze enveloped the meat, cooking it evenly while dissipating much of the heat into the surrounding air. The aroma of the meat, exceptionally rich and enticing, wafted through the air, causing several villagers to drool in anticipation. Even Grandma Marlen, known for her composure, had to restrain herself from trying it before the feast.

The cooking process was not just about the meat. Karl had advised against adding vegetables to the broth, explaining that wind meat did not pair well with them. Instead, the villagers filled the pots with the wolves' bones and an assortment of herbs, enhancing the wind properties. Wild berries and flowers would have been perfect additions, but the village lacked fruits. However, Marlen had already planned to add dandelions and a tart yellow flower that grew near the fields once the broth was ready.

These additions weren't just for flavor. Dandelions were highly nutritious and known to enhance the magical effects on the body. Marlen also remembered to include some fresh magical leaves that aided in the digestion of magical energy, ensuring the meal wouldn’t poison them.

As the broth simmered and the meat cooked, the villagers worked together under the sounds of chatter and laughter, a scene that was rarely seen before. Meanwhile, Elder Said was diligently tending to the ailing villagers in a more distant area.

As she moved gracefully among the sick, her voice sounded like a soothing balm, "Drink this up... You can rest now." Her touch was gentle, radiating an aura of calm and compassion. She paused beside a villager, her skilled hand resting on his forehead, feeling the absence of fever. A small, relieved smile touched her lips.

"Mary, his fever has broken. What's the next step?" Said's voice was soft but carried authority with it. Her disciple stood at the side trying to remember the next step of the treatment.

Mary organized her thoughts before saying, "He's been feverish for two days. It's a relief it's subsided, but we shouldn't let our guard down. I suggest continuing with willow bark tea to prevent a recurrence. And maybe, the nourishment from the feast could aid his recovery..."

Mary's words trailed off as she noticed a flicker of concern in her teacher's eyes. Elder Said seemed contemplative, almost troubled by the feast, which puzzled Mary. Why would such a good thing cause worry?

Together, they continued their rounds in the humble hut that served as the village's infirmary. It was spacious but in disrepair, barely able to shield its inhabitants from the harshness of winter. Elder Said's healing skills might have been basic compared to the famed Mage healers, but her dedication and wisdom from years of experience made her an invaluable asset to the villagers.

As they stepped out of the hut, Mary became anxious. Today's assessment by Elder Said would determine if she was ready to assume more responsibility in caring for the sick. If Elder Said found her capable, she would handle routine visits independently, only calling upon her mentor for more severe cases.

The elder broke the silence with an understanding tone, "My dear girl, enough of your doubts! You're more than ready. After a decade at my side, you should have more faith in yourself."

Mary's eyes widened, relief and surprise blooming on her face, "Really? I was worried that..."

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

Elder Said interrupted her, "I understand your concerns... Yes, the extra food and tools from the hunt are a blessing. But remember, everything comes with a price..."

Mary committed the words to memory. Perhaps, one day should understand it.

Later that day, in the heart of the village, the villagers congregated drawn by a bewitching fragrance. Karl stood among them, his mind analyzing every word of the Chief's speech. Though he was not fond of what he perceived as manipulation, he recognized the villagers' need for hope and unity.

The feast that evening was a celebration of their recent triumphs. Unlike the earthy, robust flavors of the previous feast, the wind meat offered a light, refreshing taste. Each bite was a complex dance of herbs, their distinct flavors clear to the palate. Tasting such a delicious thing, Karl wondered how higher quality meat would taste.

This time, the villagers were more forthcoming, looking for Karl to thank him personally. The adults trying to get close to his parents while pushing their children to do the same with him, hoping to form stronger bonds. To every thank you, Karl responded with a genuine smile, his heart warmed by the sight of his proud mother and bashful father. Recognition had come swiftly, and with it, came responsibility.

***

Meanwhile, in a dark corner, Lew pondered his options with a furrowed brow. “I can't take the Capital job... it's too risky. The others seem trivial. The Death Forest mission, though... it's my only real shot at gathering enough funds to get to the Democracy. But it's practically a suicide mission without an army.”

He paused, gazing at the distance, “The myths surrounding that forest may be inflated, but the dangers posed by the Tribes and beasts in the route are very real...”

The informant nodded, "It's ultimately your decision. I can only confirm the authenticity of the job. It’s a six-member Mage team, including a life Invoker and an Enchanter. The client remains anonymous, but it's clear they have the resources and connections to pull it up."

Lew made a guess, unconcerned about who was listening, "It's likely the work of a big family from the Capital, or perhaps one of the Powerhouses, trying to keep a low profile."

“So, you know there’s a high chance of success, but...” The man punctuated, letting the unsaid words hang in the air.

But Lew wasn’t afraid of facing the truth. “There’s a low chance of returning alive... Still... I'm prepared to accept the task, provided the payment is made in advance.”

Kent chuckled, an amused twinkle in his eye, " You sure are an interesting fella."

***

In the heart of the chaos, a soldier clad in grey armor knelt reverently, relaying urgent news. "Your Grace, we've confirmed the beast's presence in the village. It seems to have ceased its rampage, likely to recuperate."

The noble figure before him, a middle-aged man draped in luxurious grey robes and white fur, radiated an air of unmistakable nobility. His silver hair and pale grey eyes only heightened the aura and authority he commanded.

The younger man beside him, dressed in a simpler grey robe and showing signs of aging, interjected thoughtfully, "Master, perhaps we should send word to Hurricane City. The City Lord should handle this situation."

A young woman, standing on the other side of the nobleman, couldn't contain her thoughts, "Father, I agree. There's no need for you to intervene personally. This is a task for the City Lord."

Windsor glanced at the pair silently, disappointment hidden behind the grey eyes. His daughter, Thundery, was the hope for their family's ascension in status, but her naivety was troubling.

Addressing his daughter, Windsor explained, "Thundery, do not underestimate the situation. This is the work of a MT fire beast. You kids have been sheltered too long, but it's time you understand the world."

Silence fell upon the group as Windsor spurred his mount forward, leading the procession towards the devastated village. Their entourage, a contingent of twenty elite guards, projected a sense of superiority and strength, making the Post guards look like amateurs playing with weapons.

The outskirts of the ravaged village presented a harrowing sight. The remains of wooden structures smoldered amidst the chaos, the red stains on stones and straw told a gruesome tale.

Thundery, despite her training, felt a wave of nausea as she surveyed the devastation. Her familiarity with blood did little to prepare her for the visceral reality.

Windsor's voice cut through the air as if part of the wind itself. "Thundery, you will confront the beast. Prepare your barrier. It's time to put your training to the test."

His smile, calculating and cold, sent shivers down the spines of those around him, adding an edge to the already tense atmosphere.

One guard stepped forward, presenting Windsor with an ancient staff adorned with a large, luminous grey crystal. Johann glanced at his master, his gaze lingering on the crystal, his expression betrayed by jealousy.

Thundery focused, energy crackling in her palm, sparks dancing as she manipulated the particles with her spiritual energy. Her concentration was absolute, her intention clear.

Johann, not to be outdone, extended his hands, summoning visible wind currents that swirled around his ring, glowing with power.

The salamander, sensing the impending threat, turned its attention to the group. It recognized the danger too late as Thundery unleashed her attack.

A brilliant, multicolored bolt of energy shot forth, too fast for the naked eye. It connected Thundery to the salamander, releasing a violent burst of lightning upon impact. The beast convulsed under the sheer force of the electrical assault, its scales illuminating briefly under the intense energy.

The beast's anguished screech pierced the air, its pain revealed by the dazzling display of light. The group, except for the composed Windsor, momentarily believed the creature severely wounded. Yet, as the dust settled, it became apparent that the salamander had sustained only a superficial injury.

In retaliation, the beast conjured a formidable fireball, hurling it towards them. Johann, brimming with anticipation, stepped ahead, his hands channeling the wind to form a protective shield. The spiraling wind from his palms coalesced into a barrier, meeting the fireball with a forceful clash less than ten meters away. Although the wind shield slowed and partially diminished the fireball, it failed to halt its advance completely, casting a brief shadow of dread over the young mage.

At that critical moment, Windsor's calm demeanor remained unshaken. With a deft sweep of his staff, he summoned a dense surge of greyish spiritual energy, manipulating the wind into a huge wave. The advancing fireball, now a tangible threat with its searing heat, was effortlessly quelled upon contact with the Wind Wave, vanishing into thin air, leaving no trace of its fiery wrath.

The Wind Lord, with a confident and measured stride, advanced towards the fiery beast. "Observe closely," he warned, "the might of an Evoker is a rare sight."

With meticulous precision, Windsor channeled spiritual energy into his left hand, delicately hovering it over the wind crystal. To the untrained eye, his actions might seem gentle, almost reverent, but the young mages understood the mastery at play – the extraction of pure, high-grade wind energy.

In his palm, the accumulated energy began to whirl, taking the form of a miniature hurricane that danced gracefully around his hand, in a demonstration of control and power.

The salamander, undeterred, launched another fiery assault. Windsor, without disrupting the burgeoning hurricane in his left hand, countered with another Wind Wave from his staff-wielding hand, effortlessly dissipating the fireball. Before the creature could muster another attack, Windsor released the contained hurricane, directing it towards the salamander with a precise flick of his wrist.

The hurricane surged toward the beast, its size and might escalating with each revolution. Sensing the imminent danger, the salamander unleashed a fireball in a desperate attempt to ward off the attack. When the fireball collided with the hurricane, it briefly reduced the tempest's size before being utterly consumed. Unstoppable, the hurricane relentlessly pursued the beast.

Attempting to flee, the salamander found itself ensnared and helplessly flung into the air by the swirling winds. It crashed to the ground with a pained screech, its tail thrashing wildly in agony. Regaining its bearings, the creature spewed a barrage of fireballs at its aggressor. Still, Windsor deflected each fiery onslaught with his Wind Waves.

As the hurricane's fury subsided, the salamander lay battered, but not vanquished. Deeming the lesson sufficient, Windsor resolved to end the spectacle. He drew the wind crystal close to his nostrils, inhaling deeply, absorbing its pure energy. The crystal shined brilliantly, channeling a substantial amount of power into the Wind Lord.

Fixing his gaze upon the beaten beast, Windsor commenced a haunting whistle. The sound materialized into a flock of grey, dense 'birds', each note taking flight with purpose. Like raptors in a coordinated dive, the ethereal birds swooped toward the salamander's head, executing a swift and decisive strike. Within moments, the creature's head was cleanly severed.

Turning to his daughter, Windsor commented with a strategic glint in his eye, "Thundery, retrieve the crystal core from the beast. It could serve as an exquisite offering to your aunt. I'm curious to see what favor it might bring us in return."