Chapter 30 - No Rest for The Wicked

LARAAQ AND JENNIFER

Laraaq sat in the driver’s seat of his moving truck, towing the old pickup. Jennifer sat in the passenger’s seat and was on the walkie talkie having a conversation with her parents. As their magi-tech power suit, or what everyone was calling the magi-mech, moved faster than the convoy. The inventor couple took on the critical role of scout and first engagement.

Previously, the convoy were using armed people on motorcycles to speed on ahead and return with any risks or dangers. If they couldn’t get away, that’s what being armed was about, they defended themselves until they could get away. A risky but critical job.

The magi-mech was far more armored and shielded. It also packed way more of a punch than a rifle or handgun. They had taken out several threats along the way that posed little risk for the inventor duo.

Most of the creatures they encountered were Undead Zombies. If the zombies couldn’t reach you to bite or scratch you, they weren’t much a problem. The couple already were level 16 from all the zombies and other monsters they took out.

Laraaq wasn’t thrilled about missing all those kills and sweet experience. It did mean when they finally reached their destination, Laraaq would be full on mana. Other than being tired of driving and being stuck behind the wheel, he was ready to go.

The convoy had continued to rescue people that were along the way. Even with rescue teams leaving the convoy on random recovery missions, they were making great time. The convoy would arrive several hours ahead of schedule, and that suited Laraaq just fine.

They had over 1,500 people in the convoy now. Most were non-combatants, but many of those that were willing to fight were seasoned hunters and ex-soldiers. Laraaq wasn’t thrilled with everyone they saved. Some, like Sharon, were too entitled and stuck in their old ways of manipulating people to get what they want.

Many of those who Laraaq would prefer to keep an eye on would stay back with the convoy when the real fighting starts. He knew they were a future problem, one he hated to hand over to his friend. Laraaq knew Shadowalker was better suited for the headaches that would ensue post battle, so he would support his best friend as best he could.

“How big was the cougar? Eight feet tall? That’s insane?” Jennifer had headphones plugged in, which Laraaq was grateful for.

She was getting a report about one of the ‘threats’ her parents just eliminated. In some way Laraaq was curious as it helped break up the monotony of the drive. In other ways, he could care less, it was all just a distraction. In the end Laraaq decided to be appreciative of the time the couple was saving them and to be grateful they would have more practice fighting in the power suit they invented.

Jennifer relayed the information. “Mom & Dad took out a giant mutated cougar. They said it should be smooth sailing to our destination. They didn’t want to get too close for fear their Magi-mech would draw too much attention. However, they have been able to take out any of the threats between here and their location.”

“That’s good news. What level are they now?” Laraaq replied.

“They just dinged 17. I’m super jealous. I so want to pick my class already.” Jennifer vented.

Laraaq chuckled. “Ha! Tell me about it. I’m so over being stuck in this truck. Give me something to light on fire and I’ll take it over nonstop driving any day of the week!”

A few hours later the convoy came to a stop along the road, not too far from a forest. If they continued along the road, in a few miles they would reach the town. Laraaq turned his two-way radio to the frequency Carol had told him.

A few minutes later he got a reply. “This is Donut. Over.”

“Donut. This is Laraaq. We are at the rendezvous point and awaiting confirmation.” Laraaq replied.

Jennifer spoke up. “You forgot to say ‘over’.”

Laraaq grimaced before he quickly said into the radio, “Over.”

“Glad to hear it. Shadowalker left this morning for the Sleeping Willow camp. From there he was going to head to the meet up point. Once we hear back the rest of us will begin to form up for our attack. Over.” Duncan said over the radio.

“We’ve got incoming!” Jennifer’s mom said through the magi-mech’s speaker.

Twenty giant spiders broke through the clearing.

“Oh, hell no!” Laraaq said as she took aim.

“Why did it have to be spiders!” Jennifer lamented.

Then Laraaq noticed goblins were sitting in saddles and behind an older goblin he thought he saw a familiar face.

The spiders stopped and the only human on the spiders got down. Laraaq heard him mumble something. “Thank you Tan’don and Lucile for the ride. It still doesn’t make up for what you did, but the look on their faces was priceless.”

“You jerk! Did you get taller? And more muscular?” Laraaq blurted out.

“I figured you would freak, but I couldn’t pass up the chance to scare the crap out a few of your new friends. Besides, you’re one to talk, look at you! You lost some weight and got taller yourself. You look good brother!” Shadowalker said as he embraced Laraaq in a big hug.

Just then a notification popped up in Laraaq’s vision.

Quest Completed! You have reunited with your best friend and brother! You have done so prior to the week’s deadline and brought with you fighting forces to help defend your new home! For going above and beyond for this quest you are granted the following rewards:

· Title

· Instantly progress to the next level

· Race change

Congratulations! You have gained the title: Reliable Ally!

Title: Reliable Ally

Description: When times are most dire, and you are most needed you are there! Against the odds, you stick by those you care about no matter what! +10 to All Stats! +25% to stats when fighting for or with your allies.

You are a lucky bastard! That title is only granted to those who risk their life consistently and with all their being are loyal to someone with great authority!

“Thanks, system!” Laraaq mentally replied.

Warning: If you ever betray the one you’ve pledged yourself to, the penalties for losing the title are quite severe!

“Not something I ever have to worry about, system. This man is my brother, he would do the same for me!” Laraaq mentally told his system.

As if to prove his point, Laraaq receive a new notification.

Temporary Buff Received: Time Armor (10th tier spell)

Duration: 24 hours or until triggered

Description: Prevents one fatal attack or critical injury by nullifying the time between you and the armor. With not impede range of motion or mobility.

Laraaq inwardly smiled. His buddy Shadowalker must’ve used the contact from the hug to place this buff on him. ‘He probably used up most of his mana to cast this on me. Yep, that’s my brother!’ Laraaq thought before turning his attention back to his other notifications.

Level Up! Congratulations! You are now level 13! You have +10 stat points to distribute! You are now eligible to choose a class. Warning: Class selection can take a long time and would potentially remove you from the upcoming battle.

“Nice warning system! So, in other words I better wait to start my class selection process!” Laraaq lamented.

Correct!

“Well, thank you for the warning, system. That could’ve been disastrous.” Laraaq said in appreciation.

After making sure he stroked his system’s ego, Laraaq decided it was time to review the last of his notifications.

Congratulations! You are eligible for a race change. Please choose from the following races:

· Advanced Human

· Elf

· Dwarf

· Dark Elf

· Sea Elf

· Were-honey-badger…

The list continued on, but Laraaq ignored the other options. Once he read the Were-honey-badger, the other options held no interest for him.

“This must be from getting bitten by that Mutated Giant Honey Badger.”

Correct!

Selecting his option, Laraaq began to convulse. He felt pain greater than when he distributed 40 stat points all at once. Laraaq had made the mistake of not allocating his points from level 9 through level 12 as he leveled. He felt his friend Shadowalker helped him to the ground and the bliss of unconsciousness took him.

Several people from the convoy drew their weapons thinking this stranger just attacked their leader. The goblins drew their own weapons, and some began casting spells. For a brief moment it looked like both sides would come to blows.

Jennifer broke the tension as she rushed over to Laraaq’s side. “I’m a healer!”

Shadowalker allowed her to examine his friend.

After a few moments, Jennifer stood and turned to the convoy. “My Diagnostics spell is telling me he is undergoing a race change. We just need to give him some time. I imagine it was similar to when he waited to distribute his stat points from four levels.”

SHADOWALKER

My best friend collapsed right as a notification appeared in my vision.

Congratulations! You have gone above and beyond in finding allies to support your upcoming battle for your new home. As a reward two additional abilities within your soul are unlocked. You have gained the abilities: Weave Sight and Hunter’s Sense of Smell.

You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.

Weave Sight

Description: See the very essence of those they lay their eyes on. See auras, magical signatures, and the true self of those you gaze upon. This ability also grants you access to the Weave and the strands of Fate that tie all things together. These connections to Fate are rarely glimpsed. Please Note: Master this ability to increase your influence over Fate.

Hunter’s Sense of Smell

Description: Any real hunter can smell which creatures are prey or predator. You can literally smell the nature of someone by their scent. Also grants pheromone detection and purpose.

‘Wow! Both will be very useful abilities that I will figure out how to master later.’ I thought as I knelt, keeping an eye on my best friend and brother.

Laraaq’s body was shifting. Fur started to grow all over his body, and he grew in size and muscle mass. Then most of fur receded and I was looking at my brother again.

“I’m Jennifer by the way.” The blond woman said.

I hadn’t bothered to examine her as I was a bit distracted with seeing Laraaq. That was a tactical mistake and not one I would repeat as I began identifying everyone within range. After a few moments, I realized I was being rude.

“My apologies. I’m a bit distracted. I’m Shadowalker, but I’m sure you already figured that out. The older goblin behind me is Tan’don, chief of the Crawler goblin clan. They raise the giant spiders as companions and war mounts.”

Jennifer commented. “Never met a goblin before. Though, I have zero interest in meeting those giant spiders. They scared many of us near to death!”

I chuckled. “Ha! This is the apocalypse. You have to get used to uncomfortable or the unordinary if you want to survive.”

Jennifer pointed to the big power suit standing close by. “My parents are inventors and made the magi-tech battle suit. I think I’m good on how I’m adapting and don’t need any giant spiders in my life.”

That made me laugh. “Ha! Ha, ha, ha! Fair enough. Well while my buddy is sleeping perhaps you could fill me in on the convoy’s fighting prowess.”

Two men stepped forward. My system identified them as Carl and Jacob. Carl was the one who spoke up first. “My name is Carl. We have over 200 fighters and hunters. All of them ready to go.”

Jacob followed up. “I’m Jacob. We have over 1,500 people so most will have to stay behind, and we will want people to guard them should the enemy double back in combat.”

“That’s a lot of risk. I recommend only the lowest levels be chosen to remain. That is what we are doing at my compound. We picked those that weren’t ready for the realities of war and were of a low enough level it wouldn’t make too much difference. Typically, those from the younger generation who have yet to adapt to this game like system. Their peers who have accepted our new reality are joining the fight.” I explained.

An older woman my system identified as a Carol Burns spoke up. “That’s smart. I’d fight but I think I’m better served to coordinate the convoy while our main force is away.”

The moment she spoke up I knew she was the lady Duncan had been speaking with over the radio. She had a calming voice and per Jebediah, had a level head on her shoulders too. I nodded in acknowledgement. “That would be most helpful Carol. How many healers do you have? Any of them willing to go into combat?”

“Besides myself?” Jennifer chimed in.

I nodded in acknowledgement. “We need as many healers as possible willing to fight.”

Jacob spoke up. “There are maybe 20 people with healing magic or medical skills. Of those 20, only half have openly pledged to fight. The others have offered to do triage and first aid away from the battle.”

While Jacob was talking Gr’ex had dismounted and came up alongside me.

I sighed. “That’s not ideal. We only have three human healers. One will stay behind at the compound, the other two are reluctantly willing to join the fight.” I turned to Gr’ex. “How many goblin healers do we have?”

Gr’ex stroked his chin with his thumb and forefinger. “As you know, master, not all healers are equal. True healers about 5, most of them are funny enough from the Boom clan. Dark Shamans and those that can leech life from one to heal another, we have over 50. Most of those are from my clan, the Dark Weavers.”

“Those who can leech life would be better served in the thick of things. The true healers should be held back in reserve as much as possible. Each healer should have a squad of defenders to protect them. Rule of magic combat, protect the healer.” I said the last part while looking at Jennifer.

Looking back to Jacob and Carl. “Now that the most important subject is determined, healing, let’s discuss other logistics. How many fighters will you be bringing? How many ranged versus melee, etc.?”

Carl spoke first this time. “We have twenty-six squads that consist of three to six people. Most are marksmen. Several are good at hand-to-hand combat.”

Jacob chimed in after that. “Carl has taken on the responsibility of our ranges and rescue teams. I have taken on the responsibility for our melee fighters and spirit warriors.”

“Spirit warriors?” I asked in confusion.

“Those that focus on the internal energy and cultivation overall. They have an advantage in internal control and body enhancement. Also, the easiest path to immortality.” Gr’ex explained.

I turned to Gr’ex. “Sounds pretty impressive. Why haven’t we discussed it before?”

“Simple. Once you form a core based on chi you have a hard time cultivating mana. That type of spirit energy is more rigid and not as adaptable as mana. Which makes it difficult for the wielder to influence the outside world. Also, if you release your chi and it is not neutral, you can poison the environment for those that do not possess the affinities. Dangerous and limited, plus the length of time and effort to get to a point of meaningful cultivation. Mana is faster and easier when it comes to magic.”

“We have been making great strides in strengthening our bodies and removing impurities. I assure you Shadowalker that this path is very lucrative. We have over two hundred cultivators at various beginning stages of body enhancement. My spirit warriors will gladly take their place on the front lines.” Jacob countered.

‘Would’ve been nice to know that was an option before I formed my core. Though mine formed pretty early in all of this.’ I thought.

My system once again answered my unanswered question.

Query Accepted

Your Divine Infinitum is one of the rare cores capable of cultivating multiple spiritual energies including Chi or Qi depending on your perspective.

“Really?” I mentally asked.

Query Accepted

Yes. Such spiritual energy is a more complex form of the mana energy in the universe. Please Note: Releasing complex spiritual energy can poison those around you depending on their affinities.

Well, that was one hell of a revelation. I could cultivate other forms of spiritual energy such as chi or Qi. Then, learning it was more rigid than mana due to it being a more complex form.

“System, after this upcoming battle, set a reminder for me to experiment with different forms of spiritual cultivation.” I mentally requested.

Reminder Added

“Thank you.”

Turning my attention back to Jacob. “Alright Jacob. Your men shall take the front. I want several placed within the ranged units for added protection. As most of our people will be using guns it will be important to keep the enemy forces from melee range for as long as possible.”

A young man I identified as Colin spoke up. “Shouldn’t we wait for Mr. Laraaq to wake up? I mean isn’t he in charge here.”

Gr’ex chuckled.

I leered at my goblin companion. I turned to Colin. “That is a fair question. You are on my lands; I have authority here. Laraaq is my brother and right-hand man. I had no intention of starting the battle or doing final deployments without him. Right now, I am getting the overall understanding of what kind of fighting force we have to work with. Any of you have a problem with that?”

As I asked my question, the goblins riding their giant spider mounts moved forward to show their support. I imagine for an intimidation factor too; it was not required. If I needed to intimidate, I just had to let up ever slightly on my tight control over my mantle.

Colin stepped back as the giant spiders stepped forward. I could literally smell the fear coming off the young man. He was not the only one I could literally smell fear on them. ‘Man, this new sense is going to take some getting used to.’ I thought.

A giant of a man put his hand on Colin’s shoulder stopping him in his retreat. The man had a smile on his face that didn’t quite reach his eyes. I could see something coming off him, but I wasn’t sure what it was as I was still getting used to the extra sensory information coming from all the smells let alone what I assumed was people’s auras I was seeing.

I instantly recognized this man as a fellow predator and a hunter. His gaze was like one hunter looking at another to size up the threat. I stared the man down and smiled. He recognized I wasn’t bluffing.

The scents I got from him confirmed he was a hunter. He also had other scents on him. There was definitely a female scent on him. And one other scent I couldn’t quite place.

‘Not quite fear like the others. Hmmm, concern maybe? Yes, he’s concerned about something.’ I thought as I stared back at the man.

The burly man spoke up, never taking his eyes off of me as he did. “Come now Colin. No need to run away. This man clearly has support here. Laraaq did say we were coming to his friend.”

“If you say so Mr. Mack.” Colin replied.

Mack waved his hand towards the goblins with me. “I hear we gonna be fighting goblins, but it looks like we have some goblins on our side. How we supposed to know which ones to kill?”

“Good question Mack. Each goblin clan has an emblem and colors they wear. The Bone Marrow clan goblins typically have brown and red over a set of bones. So just remember the phrase: ‘Brown and red, make em dead!’ Got it?” I explained.

Mack chuckled. “Ha! I like that! Easy to use! Brown and red, make em dead!” Mack said the last part as he slammed his fist into his other hand.

Mack turned to Jacob. “You should pass the word around...”

“I need no direction from you Mack, nor did I ask for it! You’ve never given a crap about anyone but yourself so why now of all times are you even bothering.” Jacob fired back.

“Or don’t. I don’t really care. I’m going to go prepare for battle.” Mack said as he turned his back on Jacob and walked away.

Colin followed close behind the brute of a man.

‘Interesting. There seems to be dissent amongst the ranks. I’ll have to ask Laraaq about it later.’ I thought as I watched the interaction.

Gr’ex whispered to me. “I know we need warriors, but really? This group seems unbalanced.”

I laughed. “Ha, ha, ha, ha! You mean like our group?”

Gr’ex winced. “Okay, that is fair. That Mack... he will be a problem. He reminds me too much of the Orcs. You never turn your back on an Orc.”

I nodded. “I thought you told me to never turn my back on a goblin.”

“That too. Well, you do not have to worry about that now, not with your Dark Mantle. Mark my words when this battle is over, that man will have to be dealt with.” Gr’ex replied.

“Fair enough. But that is a problem for future me. Current me has a goblin chief to kill... speaking about Tek’tar, why is he so big?” I asked as I watched Carl and Jacob huddle for a private conversation.

“Oh, that is simple. He’s half Orc. Another reason not to like him.” Gr’ex answered.

“You really don’t like Orcs do you buddy.” I commented.

“Why would I like a race that enslaves mine or treats mine as trash.” Gr’ex explained.

“I’ve never met an Orc, but I know you cannot judge an entire race on the actions of some.” I stated.

“Perhaps. I did not like huemons until we became allies. A discussion for another day. These huemons seem to be taking the big one’s advice.” Gr’ex gestured to Jacob and Carl.

“I’ll see the word spread to everyone. Your suggestions for group make-up and deployment are sound. We will incorporate it.” Carl stated.

Gr’ex spoke up loud enough for Carl and others to hear. “I did not think my master gave a suggestion, but rather an order.”

Gr’ex stepped forward as his staff began to glow. Carl flinched at the act.

Jacob stepped forward. “He meant nothing by it. Would you attack allies?”

Jennifer stepped between us. “Can we stop swinging our sticks around and focus on the task at hand?”

“I can respect a peacekeeper.” I nodded to Jennifer. “Besides she is right. I have little interest in making these men pee their pants before a battle and it would not do well for my companion to cripple fighters either.”

“What makes you think...” Carl began to say until he dropped to his knees as I released a fraction of my Dark Mantle and focused it at the man.

As quickly as I released it, I clamped back down. I moved faster than I ever had, using every point of Dexterity. In a second, I was at Jacob’s side, dagger at his throat. To Jacob’s credit I could feel spiritual energy coating the man’s body.

We looked at each other in the eyes before Jacob looked down at the blade pointed at his neck. Jacob smiled. “I see I am outmatched. You are just like your friend Laraaq. He made one hell of an impression as well.”

I sheathed my blade. “Ha! Knowing Laraaq I can only imagine.”

“He burned my nephew alive.” Jacob stated.

I winced. “That sounds like him. Your nephew must’ve been a right bastard.”

Jacob laughed. “Ha! Laraaq brought to light how true that statement is. As a leader, as a man of honor, once I knew the truth for sure, I knew what Laraaq did, was justice. I hold no ill will towards him.”

Jacob held out his hand and we shook hands.

Jennifer shook her head. “Men!”

I turned to her. “Yes? What about us? In one moment, we resolved our conflict and reached an understanding. Trust me, it is a far healthier way. Now Jacob and Carl know they can follow a man with strength and at least some level of competence. Battle prowess will matter greatly in this new reality.”

I tapped my sheathed blade. “As will knowing when not to kill. I may be a monster, but I am one who will fight to protect our people.”

“A bit dramatic but I get your point.” Jennifer replied with a smirk on her face.

“That’s Shadowalker. He can be a bit intense at times, but I could not ask for anyone better to have by my side.” Laraaq said as he sat up.

Jennifer rushed to his side. “You’re awake! How do you feel?”

“I feel great, actually. I’m great in fact. And based on these notifications I read while you guys were sorting everything out, I’m doing even better than I thought. Let me get to my feet.” Laraaq answered.

I was by his side helping Laraaq to his feet. “Of course, you’d have me sort that out.”

Laraaq chuckled. “Ha! I knew you’d handle it. If they really tried anything I would’ve roasted them alive.”

I embraced my friend in a side hug. “So, tell me about these notifications.”

“I’m a Were-honey-badger now!” Laraaq said excitedly.

“That’s freaking awesome brother! Just in time to bring the pain!” I encouraged.

“I have three forms now and I have something called Hunter’s Sense of Smell. I’m getting all sorts of new sensory information, it’s a trip. My Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution went up 20 points and it increases when I’m in my were-form! Looks like even more when I’m in my full Honey-Badger form! Man, clothing is going to be an issue if I’m reading this right. What’s even better is because I have high enough Intelligence and Wisdom, I can control the natural rage that comes with these forms. I can even cast my magic while in were-form!” Laraaq explained.

“Sweet! You’re going to be a wrecking ball on the battlefield.” I commented.

Gr’ex approached holding out a walkie-talkie. “Umm, this crude communication device is making noise.”

“Walkie-talkie.” I replied as I took the device from him.

“That is a horrible name. It makes no sense! The thing does not walk at all.” Gr’ex complained.

“No, no. It’s because you can walk...” I started to explain but just waved him off as I heard Jebediah’s voice come through.

“Shadowalker you there? Over.”

I pushed the button. “Yea go ahead. Over.”

“We have spotted goblins heading our way. Orders? Over.” Jebediah stated.

Laraaq and I quickly nodded at each other. “Looks like it’s time to rumble.” Laraaq said as he shifted into his were-form ripping his shirt in the process.

Laraaq grew to over two meters tall, easily seven feet tall for us Americans. He grew fur all over his body and his muzzle elongated and sharp teeth protruded.

“You look badass brother!” I said as I looked at him. Then I clicked on the walkie-talkie. “Move out. We will hit them from behind. Classic pincer move. Do as we discussed, melee in front while you do as much damage as possible from range. Over.”

Turning to Jacob, Carl, and Jennifer. “You heard Jebediah, rally our forces and let’s move out.”

When Carl didn’t move fast enough, Laraaq roared. “YOU HEARD THE MAN, MOVE!”