PART 6
EPISODE 65: COLOR FADING
— Edryan Queendom, Year: 7291. Season: Color Fading.
Those who possess Rare and above classes fall under one to three categories. There is a fourth, but barely. The first is if you are a noble. Generally, that status alone guarantees a Rare class even for the lowliest of nobles. The second is merchants; men or women who have amassed a large amount of material wealth, and can afford to purchase the details of a higher class. The final, are adventurers. Those who risk their lives to venture into dungeons, the Wildlands, and danger zones for opportunities and wealth.
— Excerpt from the journal of Lawruthian Edryani.
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Starglow Valley was beautiful. Tiny motes of starlight hovered throughout the valley’s airspace, while the valley remained covered in eternal darkness. An overpowering smell of lilac and lilies spread throughout the valley. Bright towers reminiscent of the rising sun stood piercing towards the heavens. At their center was one tower that was vastly superior in every aspect. Whether its height, width, or value was compared, the tower named [NOVA] outranked its peers by all factors. Serving as the crown jewel of Starglow Valley, [NOVA] was over a millennium old. Who knew what levels its defensive properties would have reached by now under the control of experienced mages.
Garo Drumian cast a large projection of the valley internals before us. Allowing us to see the mage towers and the city that surrounded it. The old magi human held a constant frown on his face that seemed to hold the weight of a world. I knew that experience too.
Gathering just outside the large valley was the West Gate Army and my Imperius Army. The commanding officers overlooked the thirty-mile valley. Aside from the guards who accompanied Madria and me, each of my generals and Laura stood with their two second-in-command officers.
“It’s beautiful,” Madria whispered next to me.
“For now,” [Mad Dogg] Laura Lance responded indifferently.
‘ For now ,’ I repeated in my heart internally. On my shoulder, Minerva gazed warily below.
‘ There are powerful magics within, and space is fluctuating chaotically! ’
‘ I’m certain Laura has a way. ’
An army of thirty-three thousand stood overlooking the features of the valley. The Imperious Army composed of two thousand soldiers and my thousand Vanguard Golems. The rest belonged to the West Gate Army and their assets.
“The Convocation is powerful, and their War-forged will have spatial skills to contend with. Dealing with [NOVA] will not be easy,” General Alexandria stated.
She was dressed in full regalia, as we all were. She wore a knight's combat armor with small modifications and gems that would channel her magic, Intent, and more. It would amplify each property to a certain extent. Her helmet held a T-shaped opening for her eyes, nose, and mouth. My shorter general held a mage-blade that was common among [Spell-Swords] and a medium knight shield to match. The set was new and the emblem that represented me was plastered over her chest and back.
“Hmph,” Ameri snorted. “There is little need to worry. Not with General Laura and the West Gate Army. They’ve knocked down a few mage organizations once Her Majesty ascended to the throne. The Convocation will just be another number to that list.”
She wore a much heavier set of armor, with large gauntlets and armored boots. Unlike Alexandria, not even Ameri’s eyes shone. Only red crystal gems similar to my visor covered the woman’s eyes. She appeared to be a dark knight and held the commanding height, weight, and presence of one.
Alexandria opened her mouth to counter, but a single voice interrupted us all. The commanding group stood just a few feet away from officially entering the valley when our host arrived to greet us.
“Welcome, your highness Lawruthian and General Laura of the West Gate Army. To what honors does my Spatial Convocation hold to be greeted by such a,” the voice paused then sniffed before it seemingly glanced over the procession behind us. “ …sinister escort .”
The voice was powerful, and it carried the authority and Intent to match it. Intent, powerful to become nearly visible, swept in a black-tinted wave towards us. The Intent seemed to hold the weight of a star, as all vegetation was eradicated on approach. Starlight glittered on the waves, and for a moment, I thought the attack would reach us.
General Laura stepped forward and let off a powerful snort in contempt. Just before the wave of Intent met us, the general’s own nearly formless pressure erupted. A red snarling beast seemed to emerge from the void itself in challenge before dashing forward and meeting the opposing wave head-on.
The moment the two waves of Intent met… reality… shifted . The space and earth between the two opposing sides fractured. The red-black lightning of chaos emerged between the two points as the contest of Intent continued.
General Laura took a single step forward. Then another and another and ANOTHER. With each of her steps forward, the mage that appeared was forced a step back. With each of her steps forward, the group behind her took a step. With each of her steps forward, the combined army behind us shifted, and their momentum grew.
The battle had yet to truly begin, but already General Laura Lance showed her prowess. The red-black lightning of chaos tore into the surroundings as their Intents clashed and the surrounding vitality of the world was sapped away. Space tore and rippled as the opposing forces forced their Intent upon the world. That clashed erupted as tore space between the parties and a black-grey void that shone with the radiance of an event horizon shown between the two. The battle had yet to begin.
Ten steps.
Twenty.
Thirty steps.
Forty.
Fifty steps in, Laura Lance was finally halted. As she moved, we moved. Step by step, both armies invaded the domain of Starglow Valley. Around us, the landscape was shattered and destroyed by the clash of Intent. The ground was left in a blackish-grey charred mess.
Thraag Volkensha snorted as he finally halted the push of Laura. I gazed at the old mage with curiosity as he stood in the air in front of us. I recognized his likeness from the various paintings of key figures shone after my arrival yesterday.
The mages eyes flickered to my helmed figure as I stepped forward. “Perhaps this may be a misunderstanding, but has the Council of Elder Mages in charge of the Convocation not summoned me?”
Two other figures flickered into reality two steps behind Grand Magi Thraag. The shift was seamless and nearly appeared as if they’d always been there. My sense told me otherwise, and my doubled stats allowed me only a brief glimpse of them emerging into reality. For a second, I grew nervous as their gazes landed on me. Laura’s two lieutenants stepped forward, pausing near me as their gaze flicked upwards.
The commanders of the West Gate Army wore a near ink black armor. The only other color to stain the armor was red. Somehow, someway, an outline of red was on each and every single member of the West Gate Armies armor. On their chest was the emblem of the army and a representation of the Lance House. Each of their armors held a savage, snarling hound. Both men who stepped forward, Lock and Kei Lance, were the husbands of Laura as well as her seconds in command.
So far, everything was going according to our earlier discussion.
‘ This is the start of the big leagues, ’ I muttered internally.
‘ There’s no turning back now, Lawruthian. We’re in a Mexican standoff ,’ Minerva exclaimed excitedly. ‘ Do you remember your lines? ’
' I do- ’
“Hmph, this is the whelp still attached to his mother's teat?”
The figure on the left of Thraag, Councilman Jahman, spoke.
“Jahman, Thraag stated sharply, but it was far too late.
My thoughts froze as I heard the words erupt from his mouth. Not out of anger, although I was angry, no it was worse than that.
INTENT CHECK!
You are under the effect of {Malice}.
Your body and mind can no longer move due to insufficient Intent.
Before my mind faded I caught a whiff of lilac and lilies.
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[Mad Dogg] Laura, growled, the sound deep and rumbling like that of a wild hound. The Intent that dispersed after the clash with Thraag returned. This time, it was more than palpable, its haze clear for the eye to see. This time, a manifestation of a large hound tore itself into reality. Hate red eyes, black steel fur, and a snarling maw lunged in a furious savage charge at Councilman Jahman. The Councilman showed a trace of fear, and the surrounding space shifted as he began to defend himself.
“( Domain Expansion: Red Rage ),” Laura spoke with {Malice}.
(Domain Expansion: Red Rage)
Description:
You have taken your first step on the Path. Rage is the color that dyes who oppose you from now on.
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
Function:
Take control of a localized area through your Intent. Let your Rage manifest itself as it turns the sky Red and your fangs rip out the throats of enemies.
Cost
500 HP, 500 MP, 1000 SP.
The blue sky shifted, and the color faded from blue to red for an area of three miles. Jahman clapped his hands together, a wave of force surrounded his body as the passive shield every mage kept as a core skill became active under his direction.
“(Dimensional Bulwark),” the councilman responded in kind. Activating his core skill with no delay.
(Dimensional Bulwark) – Active/Passive
Description:
Tap into the dimension, create a bulwark of twisted space.
Function:
Dimension Defense
Project a spatial attributed barrier around yourself or intended target. Increase Base Defense by 100-500%.
Cost
100-500 MP.
The hill size hound tore through the air toward him, hate red eyes locked onto Jahman’s throat.
Light twisted and reflected in an array of patterns, creating a spectrum of colors as the (Dimensional Bulwark) face against the attack of Laura’s domain. The hound bit and the sound of glass shattering was heard as it tore through the array of colors. It was not without effect, as the hound lost much of its built momentum. Jahman took two steps back, then another three, then four. Blood leaked from the corner of his lips as his core skill failed. Horror appeared in his eyes as the diminished hound, now the size of a cute puppy, leapt for his throat.
“It’s enough.”
Thraag waved his hand and the attack dispersed, space rippling as it swallowed the pup whole.
“Hmph, [Dimension Shaper] huh?”
“Enough, Laura, His Highness cannot resist against your {Malice},” Kei stated as he held up the unconscious young man.
He wasn’t the only one unconscious, as many members of the Imperius Army fell. Alexandria took a knee, sweat ran down her face continuously. Whereas Ameri still stood, but her body went ridged like that of one trapped in a state of {Fear}.
Laura sniffed, but her {Malice} began to disperse. Her domain deactivated as the surroundings began to return to normalcy. Much of the surrounding land was destroyed, and a red tint seemed to cling onto the surviving vegetation.
“Thraag, His Highness Lawruthian, is not unforgiving. Work with him, with me … let a way out for the Convocation. Do not let your life’s work be destroyed by a petty-”
“Enough Garo, we are… lovers no longer. The Convocation. Will. Not. Bend. If his highness Lawruthian wishes to prevent bloodshed, then he must come before the council alone or not at all.”
Thraag sliced a palm through the air before inserting his fingers into the gap and pulling. He gestured to Jahman and Laia to enter, hands clasped behind his back as he waited.
Laura watched Councilman Jahman leave. Her eyes narrowed and her clasped gauntlet-covered hands slowly un-clasped before clasping once again in a repetitive manner.
“I will kill you personally,” she called before his silhouette disappeared.
Thraag’s cold abyss black irises locked with Garo’s much gentler gaze. The old Magi snorted, turned, and left. The portal closed behind him.
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When I woke up, a feeling of danger screamed through my thoughts and body. My right hand reached immediately for [Eternal Love] as I readied myself for combat. Instead, they found something soft and plump in my grasp.
“You’re… in the… camp, it’s ok Law!”
My mind fully snapped awake, and I found myself lying in a soft furnished bed. On my left was a small table where my sword [Limitless Love] lay in its bracelet form. Lying against the table was [Eternal Love]. I turned to the right, my hand still grasped the soft item.
I found Madria clearly blushing as she faced away. I turned to see my hand holding on to one of her thighs, my hand reaching just past her knees. Her skirt was on the shorter side when she sat, and I found my hand grasping bare skin. She wore a gold and black skirt that complimented her eyes and hair along with a simple white blouse-like shirt as she watched over me. My heart fluttered and I blinked rapidly. On her shoulder, sending me a devious ‘grin’ was Minerva. I narrowed my eyes at my bond, who gave me a slow, deliberate owlish blink.
“Y-your HI-highness?”
Madria spoke once again, voice rising from embarrassment as my hand slid slightly. It was here I realized I’d yet to remove my hand. Slowly , I did so, the chill air reclaimed the heat from my fingers, traveling lazily down my palm. Madria had yet to look at me, and my heart fluttered as I swallowed.
“W-w-water please,” I asked, recognizing the dryness in my throat. Gods above, why am I nervous!
“Of course,” she exclaimed. She stood and quickly made her way to a larger table.
I watched her figure all the while. Madria stood at 167 cm and held a triangle figure with wider hips and slightly thicker thighs. I couldn’t deny her beauty and that she was my type. She was black, a bit closer to umber, with short black hair that held golden highlights. A testament to her faith and the divinity of Goddess Madris that long infused to the Gamal's family bloodline. She always kept that hair in a straight bob that I found quite fit her. She had full breasts with an overall shaped and curvaceous figure.
Minerva's head swiveled around and watched me study Madria. If owls could smile, which I think they could, then she’d have the biggest shit eating grin on her face right now. I don’t know how, but I knew the bird had something to do with this.
Madria slowly brought the cup to me. I sat up and turned my body to face her. My bare chest coming into contact with the chill air. Madria squeaked as she handed me the cool liquid before she took her seat. It seemed she just regained her composure as she prepared my drink only to lose it once again.
“What… what exactly happened? Did it go as we planned?
If we can avoid bloodshed, then…,” I began asking as I put on the shirt she handed me. This is definitely Minerva’s doing. I don’t sleep bare like this anymore!
Madria was already shaking her head as I trailed off.
“No Law, it did not go as planned… not at all, she responded.
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— Edryan Queendom, Year: 7291. Season: Central.
The [Crowned Jewel] landed in a cleared field. Trees, grass, and other elements of nature were removed as magi-human settled in. The landing was slightly rough as there was no air dock for the ship to connect to. Madria jostled, nearly falling, and I reached out a hand to steady her.
“Are you ok,” I asked. Concern evident in my voice as the land procedures finished.
“Thank you, I am not used to air travel. Most of our Goddess Madris clergy travel afoot, as there is no better way to spread Her word than in person.
' Oh, wait until television arrives one day. ’
' Don’t put the cart before the horse, Minerva. We are distant from achieving simple mass communication. ’
“I’m glad you’ve arrived safely, Your Highness,” Laura Lance greeted with a warm, bloodthirsty smile. Behind the general was Alexandria and Ameri, who gave me greetings of their own. A curious glance was sent Madria’s way.
“Good evening, Generals. We have much to discuss, I’m certain. Let’s not dally any further,” I quickly stated.
Laura noodled approvingly, and the entourage made their way into a large, structured tent. It seems there are no plans to create any more permanent command stations.
Laura Lance didn’t hesitate to start the meeting once everybody was seated. Garo Drumian held a strange, pensive look on his face. The old man appeared, worried and strained. I had questions, but that was his personal business and the powerful mage was here for a reason. As long as he didn’t compromise any agreements or disagreements between us and the Convocation, then I had no complaints.
A large map of Starglow Valley was displayed before us. Underneath it was a crystalline table that thrummed with magic. Laura double tapped the table and the 3-D image of the valley appeared.
We sat there in silence as all parties studied the map. On Laura’s left and right sat her husband's and the vice commanders of the Westgate Army. On my left and right were my two newly minted generals. Around us, all, we’re lieutenants and other figures of importance. Mages in charge of the Westgate Army War-forge, their calvary division, and more.
“Starglow Valley is a heavily fortified and heavily defended county with what is considered the worst elements to fight against. Spatial traps, anomalies, and more is what awaits us the moment we step foot inside the valley. Your Highness, what do you believe is the best way to break into such a valley.”
All eyes turned to me as Laura asked me that question. My lips pursed, but I answered quickly nevertheless. It showed my non-reliance on skills, and that I am possessed abilities to truly be on the battlefield.
“Simple, there are two ultimate ways that will save the lives of our soldiers. The first to glass Starglow valley, assuming we bypass the magical defense and wards protecting the place. The second is to compromise to see if there is an alternative method than fighting.”
Laura gazed at me for a long moment as the sad but understanding smile appeared on her face. “You are young, and thus you believe there to still be a chance at resolution in the stage…
Words are like an arrow released from a bowstring. Once fired, its course can never be altered. You wished to have the Spatial Convocation bend its knee…”
“Then you shall have it.” I whispered along as Laura spoke.
“You have generals, Your Highness, consult them and answer again. You are correct in the first method, but there is more you’re missing.”
I looked left and rights at my generals before gesturing towards the map and table. “Generals…”
Ameri snorted but didn’t bother to speak. The older woman just nodded toward Alexandria.
“Deploy your War-forget to discover the traps and ruptures in space before using dimensional anchors to secure every inch and every step we take. It what Altarr Lance did in 6690 when he fought as a mercenary in the theocracy.”
“Good, that is what your generals are for, Your Highness. Use them, deploy them, and allow them to conquer for you.”
“We must try diplomacy, at least once. Let me talk to them, to him,” Garo suddenly spoke. The older man's eyes were full of regret and worry.
“Garo is right,” I began, speaking up in support.
I wasn’t regretting my decision, but… I… I just didn’t know anymore.
“At least let us attempt one chance at diplomacy.”
“ Once that doesn’t work, we’ll deploy the War-forged in a half arc and push in from the north. We head for this Nova and the city surrounding it,” Laura pointed to one of the projections.
She gave tacit approval to the plan, but she did not stop planning the conquest of the Convocation. The conversation continued late into the night.
As I retired to my quarters, a single one of my mother's quotes repeated rang through my head…