Awakening from a night of deep slumber, Thorian's mind buzzed with restless thoughts. The day to finally confront and eliminate the persistent thorn in their side was drawing near, yet a nagging sense of unpreparedness shadowed him.

The issue with the Stronghearts still looms over me. Furthermore, we lack a solid strategy for our strike. This is a critical matter that requires no further delay.

With a concerted effort, Thorian pushed these worries to the recesses of his mind, steeling himself for the day ahead. He dressed swiftly, his movements methodical, as he prepared to face the new day. Stepping into the cool morning air, he made his way to the cultivation hall, where he devoted himself to his daily ritual of meditation.

Two and a half hours later, Thorian emerged from his meditative state, opening his eyes to the reality that awaited him.

Rank up!

Finally, that took long enough. Display Panel.

Ding

Race Elemental Lord Kobold Level 16/45 (EXP: 86098/90000) Class Elemental Magus Level 40/40 (EXP: MAX) Lifespan 70 years Cultivation Realm Qi Gathering Seventh Stage (2.7%) Stats Strength 167 Agility 181 Constitution 157 Mana 177 Qi 200 Free Points 60

Not bad, Thorian acknowledged with a satisfied smile. And today, I should finally manage to advance in my class.

With that goal set firmly in his mind, Thorian meticulously cleansed both his body and the bathing tub of any lingering grime before making his way to his usual rendezvous point with Alacritas.

"My lord, what tasks do you have for me today? Do you wish for just simple scouting or do you have a specific target in mind?" Alacritas inquired, bowing slightly in respect.

Responding to the silver-furred kobold's query, Thorian affirmed, "Indeed, the situation has shifted dramatically in just the past day. For the moment, I require only your company at the council meeting. We shall discuss your specific duties thereafter."

"As you command, my lord," Alacritas replied, nodding in agreement.

"Convey to all council members to assemble at the same location as yesterday," Thorian instructed, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. "There's no need to cause Zogarth any embarrassment."

With a smile, Alacritas nodded before vanishing from sight. Meanwhile, Thorian made his way to the Village Hall to register his daily quests, then proceeded to the village's outskirts. Upon arriving at the designated spot, he noticed several logs and rocks arranged in a circle, presumably prepared the day before in anticipation of continued use.

Someone must have realized we'd still need this place, he thought, taking a seat on one of the logs.

Thorian began his routine elemental training, making the most of the time before the council's assembly. Minutes flew by as he effortlessly conjured one miniature fireball after another on his fingertips. Soon, he mastered the creation of eight stable fireballs simultaneously. However, the moment he attempted to summon a ninth, the existing orbs wavered, and he lost control over them.

As the fireballs dissipated into thin air, Thorian let out a sigh. Despite this minor setback, he remained pleased with the progress he had achieved in recent days. The mana circuits coursing through his body were markedly different from those in his previous life, but the wisdom he had amassed and his knowledge were formidable assets. Thorian was confident that, with persistent effort, he could accelerate his mastery of control far beyond that of his peers, who lacked his unique advantages.

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The sound of shuffling footsteps behind him prompted Thorian to turn and see Forlune, Zogarth, and Alacritas approaching.

"My lord, the remainder of the council will be here shortly," Alacritas announced, bowing respectfully.

"Thank you," Thorian acknowledged with a nod, then gestured towards one of the rocks. "Please, take a seat. Your input will be crucial for today's discussion."

With a nod, Alacritas seated himself, while Forlune, wearing a look of mild confusion, inquired, "Do you have a specific plan for today, my lord?"

"Indeed, I do," Thorian replied with a reassuring smile. "But let's not get ahead of ourselves. We'll wait for the full council to convene."

Forlune chuckled heartily, his excitement palpable as he took a seat beside Thorian. The group settled into a patient silence, awaiting the arrival of the remaining council members.

Once everyone had gathered, Thorian cleared his throat and announced, "Now that we are all present, let's commence the meeting." His demeanor shifted to one of solemnity as he continued, "We have convened today to address a matter of utmost urgency and gravity—the death of Nalia and her goons."

"Are we actually proceeding with our attack?" Forlune interjected, a hint of surprise lacing his voice before he allowed a chuckle to escape. "I never thought this day would actually arrive."

"I don't think a direct assault would be wise, my lord," Aqua countered thoughtfully. "An ambush would be more strategic, especially near the entrance of a dungeon. After battling their way through, they'd be weakened and unsuspecting of our plans."

Thorian considered this before nodding in agreement. "That is indeed a prudent suggestion," he conceded, then sighed, a weighty concern evident in his expression. "However, we first must address another matter. I harbor suspicions that Nalia may have additional contingencies in place." His gaze shifted to Alacritas. "Please, share with everyone the details regarding the Strongheart manor."

"Yes, my lord," responded the silver-furred kobold, his demeanor serious as he turned to address the curious and intrigued eyes of the council. "As you all are aware, I've been conducting reconnaissance in Locksley with my team over the past week. During our observations, the Strongheart manor consistently emerged as the most fortified location. At any given time, it was surveilled and protected by fifty of Nalia's men. This was the case both when Lord William was abducted and during the preparations for the ambush against Tristan. There was never a lapse in their vigilance; the manor remained impenetrably guarded."

"What does that mean?" Ventus inquired, his brow furrowed in confusion. "Could they be hiding something within those walls?"

"I would surmise it's likely some form of weapon," Aqua speculated. "But regardless of its nature, the extensive resources they're allocating for its protection suggest it's of paramount importance to them."

Zogarth, with a note of uncertainty in his voice, turned to Thorian, "My lord, do you propose we infiltrate the manor before launching our offensive?" He paused, then added, "Given our past endeavours, I'm skeptical that Alacritas and his team could enter undetected. Or am I mistaken, Alacritas?"

"No, General," the silver-furred assassin replied, shaking his head. "While I am swift, the mansion's limited entry points significantly hinder my ability to infiltrate unnoticed. The chances of finding an opportune moment to slip in are slim."

A contemplative silence enveloped the group, each member lost in thought. It was Aqua who broke the silence with a sudden insight, "My lord, while Alacritas may find infiltration challenging, we have someone among us uniquely suited for this task. Given his ability to teleport through shadows, Nox would be the ideal candidate."

At this suggestion, Thorian remained silent, biting his lip in contemplation. Forlune, sensing the weight of the decision, sighed, "It seems our lord has already considered this option. However, assigning such a perilous task to Nox, especially so soon after his recovery..."

Aqua quickly realized the implications of his suggestion, his expression turning bashful as he looked down. An uncomfortable silence followed, with everyone shaking their heads.

Breaking the silence, Alacritas spoke up, "My lord, please forgive my boldness, but I believe Nox is the right choice for this mission."

Thorian, maintaining his serious demeanor, questioned, "And why do you stand by that suggestion, even after understanding my reservations?"

"My lord, Nox is my leader, and I understand him better than anyone," Alacritas stated, locking eyes with Thorian, his voice laden with conviction. "Denying him this mission would only convey a lack of trust in his abilities. Deprived of the chance to face danger and overcome it, Nox would merely become a shadow of the warrior he once was."

Thorian absorbed these words, his eyes closing as he exhaled deeply. Alacritas's insights struck a chord, resonating with the truth Thorian knew in his heart. To overly protect Nox was to deny him his essence; he thrived on challenge, on the brink of danger. Thorian harbored no desire to be the one who clipped Nox's wings. Yet, the possibility of harm befalling Nox again caused him to pause, a shadow of fear clouding his judgment.

After a moment of contemplation, Thorian's eyes fluttered open, his resolve clear in his gaze as he addressed Alacritas. "I've reached a decision. Nox will undertake the mission. However, it is imperative that you accompany him to the periphery of the Strongheart manor, ensuring he's well-supported. Create diversions if necessary to afford him greater chances of success."

"I will ensure it's done," Alacritas affirmed, nodding with a sense of duty and determination.