1. In the dimly lit tavern at the edge of town, the air was thick with the scent of roasted meat and the musky aroma of sweat and spilled drinks. Flickering candles cast dancing shadows across the wooden beams overhead, and the raucous laughter of mercenaries filled the space.

At a sturdy oak table, Theo sat across from his friend Dan. At twenty-four years of age, Theo stood tall at 6'3", with a lean yet muscular physique that spoke of countless hours spent training. His handsome features, reminiscent of a noble prince, were accentuated by the sharp angles of his jaw and the intensity of his deep-set eyes, which shimmered like emeralds in the candlelight. A crown of tousled dark hair framed his face, further enhancing the aura of strength and charisma that surrounded him.

Dan, a year older but somewhat shorter at 6'1", leaned back in his chair with a teasing grin. His scruffy beard and wild curls gave him a roguish charm that matched his playful spirit. "Look around us, Theo. These mercenaries come from every corner of Eldoria! We could find a group to join, make some coin, and who knows what other adventures await?"

Theo took a long swig from his black wine cup, savoring the warmth that spread through him. He lowered it, "I'll leave the choosing to you, Dan. Find us a decent group, and I'll be at our camp" He leaned forward, his tone turning mock-serious. "Just promise me one thing: no fooling around with the girls or hitting the brothels."

Dan rolled his eyes, feigning exasperation. "Ugh! Fine! I won't fool around, even if I want to," he huffed, leaning back and crossing his arms defiantly. "But you didn't lend me any coin, you know."

Theo chuckled, his dark eyes sparkling with amusement. "It's not my fault you squandered all your coin on gambling and brothels. You really ought to be more responsible."

"Whatever," Dan shot back, his voice lighthearted, but the hint of genuine frustration was evident. "Just leave me some coin. If I want to get close with any mercenary group, I have to at least offer them a drink or two."

With a resigned sigh, Theo reached into his pocket, producing a few bronze coin. "Fine, here. But don't expect me to bail you out next time."

Dan's eyes gleamed with mischief as he scooped up the coins. "You're so cheap! I can't believe you."

Theo shot him a mock glare, trying to snatch the coins back, "Then earn some more coin, Your Highness!" but Dan pulled his hand away with a laugh.

Theo stood up, taking one last swig from his cup before leaving it on the table. He slung his cloak over his shoulders, the fabric flowing like shadows around him as he moved. "Just try to be smart about this, alright? I'll be at the camp."

With a final wave, Theo stepped out into the cool night air, the sounds of the tavern fading behind him. The moon hung low in the sky, casting silvery beams across the forest path leading to the campsite. He breathed deeply, letting the crisp air fill his lungs, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. The forest loomed ahead, its trees whispering secrets in the night breeze.

2. As the raucous atmosphere of the tavern pulsed around him, Dan took a deep breath, shaking off the sting of rejection from the girl he had approached earlier. She had scoffed him off without a second glance, her disinterest as palpable as the fog creeping in from the forest outside. Undeterred, he surveyed the crowd, hoping to find another opportunity for camaraderie, but every mercenary group he approached seemed more interested in their own conversations, their eyes filled with the allure of tales of glory and bloodshed.

Turning his attention to the bar, Dan spotted a group that stood apart from the others, an aura of strength and danger surrounding them like a dark cloud. They sat together, engrossed in hushed conversations, their laughter low and threatening. He knew he had to learn more about them. Leaning toward the bar, he waved over Cathy, the waitress who had just served their table.

Cathy was a striking woman, with cascading chestnut hair that framed her heart-shaped face and deep hazel eyes that sparkled with mischief. Her figure was lithe and graceful, accentuated by the fitted tavern dress that clung to her curves. The soft candlelight illuminated her flawless skin, giving her an almost ethereal glow. Dan couldn't help but admire her as she approached, her confidence radiating like a beacon amidst the chaos of the tavern.

"Hey, Cathy, could you tell me who they are?" he asked, nodding toward the formidable group.

She glanced over her shoulder, her expression shifting to one of caution. "You don't want to mess with them, Dan, they are Varghr" she warned, her voice low and serious. Just hearing Varghr's name was enough to send a chill racing down Dan's spine., Cathy continued "The tall man is Ragnar, and the woman opposite him is Rhae. The big guy next to her is Tusk, and that one at the counter fooling around with the girls is Baldwin. They're the most ruthless among all the mercenaries, and their leader as everyone aware of is Fenrir Lumen and these four are his commanders out of the total seven." Dan's heart raced and eyes wide with both awe and disbelief. "Interesting," Dan mused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "Me and Theo only thought there'd be small-time mercenaries since the war is with Kaelthor, which is a small kingdom."

Cathy shrugged, her expression turning serious again. "Even though the war is with Kaelthor, they have huge backing from Solgard, their neighboring kingdom. Our King Arthur couldn't gather troops to send this far, so Lord Aldric Strome has called upon mercenaries who can join the battle. The troops from the Royal capital will come in to reinforce them later."

Dan took in her words, excitement bubbling in his chest. "Man, here I was thinking this was a small-scale battle! But no worries. Me and Theo have been waiting for an opportunity like this. Even though I'm not prepared, Theo would kill me if I miss this chance." His eyes lit up with determination. "Could you help me find a way in?"

Cathy tilted her head, an impish smile creeping onto her lips. "What's in it for me?" she asked, the challenge clear in her tone.

Dan grinned, leaning closer. "Theo will owe you one."

Her laughter tinkled like bells, but there was a glint of skepticism in her gaze. "Theo will never pay for you."

"Don't worry," Dan replied, his confidence unwavering. "He'll pay you for sure if you can get us in."

With a nod, Cathy said, "Fine, let me go to Baldwin. He's been ogling at me since he came in. I've been ignoring him, but I'll help you out since I owe Theo one. I just hope Theo pays me for your sake."

Dan chuckled, feeling a surge of hope. "Fine, you don't have to worry. I'll make him."

As Cathy turned to approach Baldwin, Dan couldn't help but admire her one last time. She had an allure that was hard to ignore, a mix of strength and femininity that was captivating. Dan felt a newfound sense to seize the opportunity that lay ahead. The path to joining Varghr mercenary was fraught with danger, but he was ready to take the plunge.

3. Dan perched on a stool at the counter, his gaze drifting back and forth between Cathy and Baldwin, whose conversation played out like a scene from a dark romance. The tavern hummed with chatter and the clinking of tankards, but Dan focused on the tension between the two. He caught snippets of Baldwin's voice cutting through the din.

"Hey, girl," Baldwin drawled, leaning in closer, a predatory gleam in his eyes. "Why have you been ignoring this poor soul all evening? Why don't you show him some mercy and join me in my private chambers for the night? I'll pay you well. I can't ignore a woman like you. Just tell me how much-I'm begging you."

Baldwin's hand sliding possessively around Cathy's waist, Cathy, ever unflappable, stepped closer to Baldwin, her demeanor confident. She rose on her toes to whisper something in his ear, her voice low and sultry, "I owe a boy a favor," she said, her breath warm against Baldwin's skin. "He's very good in battle-I can vouch for that. He and his friend have been looking for a group to join in the conflict and want to challenge you. If you can help me with that, I'll consider your offer."

Pulling back slightly, she smiled sweetly, but tension in her posture. Baldwin's expression darkened, irritation flickering in his eyes. "You know what you're asking of me right, for a commander of Varghr to accept a challenge from someone that someone has to be renowned or rise up the ranks within Varghr, I can't just accept a challenge from a nobody, but for you Fine, if they're not up to my level, I'm going to kill them," he replied, his voice a low growl. "We have a reputation to maintain, and we don't take just anyone, if they fail, I'll take you for myself. You got that?"

Cathy smiled, but the tension in her. "I'll bring them. Where do you want to meet?"

"Bring them to the lake," Baldwin replied, his tone final.

As Cathy turned to leave, Baldwin reached out and pulled her in for a kiss, his lips brushing against hers with an ownership. She broke away and returned to Dan, urgency in her eyes.

"Go and bring Theo to the lake, and don't mess this up," she said, her voice tense. "That guy's dangerous. If Theo can't stand up to him, he's going to kill you. And I don't know what he's going to do to me."

Dan nodded, swallowing hard. "I'll bring him. But what do you mean by 'standing up to him'?"

Cathy rolled her eyes. "Did you really think a strong mercenary group commander would take you in just on the word of a waitress?"

"If it's a challenge, I could have challenged him directly. What good did you do?" Dan countered, his frustration bubbling to the surface.

She kicked his foot lightly. "If you had directly challenged Baldwin, he would've crushed you right here. Do you think you can just waltz up and challenge one of Varghr's commanders? You have to work your way up through battles and challenges. But because of me, Baldwin accepted your challenge without all that, so be grateful-and pay me double."

"Fine," Dan said, resigned. "Let me get Theo. Pray to the gods that he pulls this off." As an afterthought, he added, "By the way, did you enjoy him kissing you?"

Cathy smirked, teasingly. "Yeah, better than you."

Dan's smile faded, replaced by a scowl as he turned on his heel and left the tavern, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and dread. He made his way through the dimly lit path toward the camp, the moon casting silver beams on the ground.

Baldwin returned to the table and, looking at Rhae, Tusk, and Ragnar, announced, "I've accepted a challenge."

Tusk, already irritated and slurring slightly from drink, growled, "Are you out of your mind? We're marching to war tomorrow, and here you are, taking on some random challenge. Do you still think you're a small-time mercenary? You're the seventh commander of the Varghr Mercenary now, Baldwin-we don't go around accepting duels from just anyone!"

Baldwin smirked, unbothered. "You think I'm all muscle, no mind? I know exactly who's challenging me. I spotted them earlier. If I'm right, he's that slave boy-turned-mercenary-remember the stories? The one from the bandit massacre, the kid who supposedly fought a Demon Lord and came away with a black blade."

Rhae's interest piqued. "You really think those stories are true?"

Ragnar chimed in, leaning forward. "I think there's some truth in them. No one knows his origins, but people from the south swear by the massacre story. They say he killed a Demon Lord, but most folks dismiss it as fantasy."

Rhae shrugged. "If the rumors are real, he might actually be strong-and ruthless."

Baldwin scoffed. "Maybe, but from what I saw, he's just a kid. Hardly the monster everyone makes him out to be."

Tusk, grumbling, gave in. "Fine. You've already accepted, so let's get back to camp and get this over with. But Talon's not going to be pleased."

Rhae gave him a reassuring nod. "Leave Talon to me. I'll handle him."

There, Theo lay sprawled across a low tree branch, gazing up at the stars twinkling in the night sky, a bottle of black wine dangling from his fingers.

"Hey, Theo!" Dan shouted, straining his voice to reach him. "I got us into a big mercenary group, but there's a catch-you need to fight their commander and defeat him, or at least match his strength. Otherwise, they'll kill us both!"

Theo stirred but remained unperturbed. "Fine, let me sleep for now," he mumbled, taking another swig.

Dan's heart raced with urgency. "I forgot to mention, the challenge is now."

With surprising agility, Theo leaped down from the ten-foot branch without a care. He took another swig, swaying slightly as he landed. "Fine, let's go," he said, stumbling forward, clearly feeling the effects of the alcohol.

"Whoa, whoa! Stop, man!" Dan grabbed his arm, concern etched on his face. "You're drunk. How do you think you're going to win?"

"I can take on anyone, even fully drunk," Theo replied, a lopsided grin on his face.

"Yeah, I know" Dan said, frustration bubbling to the surface, "but that Baldwin is a beast. He's at least half a foot taller than us! Why did you drink this much?"

With a half-drunk laugh, Theo wrapped an arm around Dan's neck, nearly pulling him off balance. "I'm fine, Dan. Let's go and beat the crap out of this baldween guy."

Dan chuckled, shaking his head at Theo's reckless bravado. "You're insane. Fine, let's go. But first, at least take a dip in the lake to sober up a bit."

Before Theo could protest, Dan kicked him playfully, sending him sprawling into the lake. The shock of the icy water jolted Theo awake, and he erupted from the lake, sputtering and cursing, a mix of indignation and surprise written all over his face.

"Dan!" he shouted, shaking, water spraying everywhere as he chased after Dan, who was already doubling over with laughter.

They gathered their swords and made their way to the other end of the lake, where Cathy had instructed them to meet.

4. Theo and Dan arrived at the gathering site, where the air was thick with the scent of smoke and liquor. Around a roaring campfire, at least fifty mercenaries clustered, laughing and shouting as they drank heavily. Among them were toughened warriors and rough-hewn barmaids from the tavern, and women as hardened and capable as the men. The atmosphere was wild, almost primal, as if the fire itself was feeding off the raw energy of those around it.

Dan leaned in to Theo as they walked through the noisy crowd, his voice barely a murmur above the noise. "See the ones by the fire? Those are the leaders."

Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

Theo's eyes scanned the figures Dan had pointed out. Rhae stood out first-a fierce beauty Her hair was white-gold, almost foxlike in the firelight, and her eyes gleamed a dangerous crimson that made her seem both captivating and lethal. Her foxlike ears, slightly pointed, added to her aura of wild power.

Beside her was Tusk, shorter but solid as a wall. His chest was broad and his legs like thick tree trunks; he stood there, an immovable force with a gaze as steady as stone. Ragnar, on the other hand, was tall, lean, and calm, his gaze that of a panther sizing up everything around him. The man radiated an aura that hinted at countless battles, yet he held a strange serenity that seemed to command respect.

Then there was Baldwin. Towering over the others, he looked like he'd been carved out of mountain rock, his long hair falling wildly over his shoulders. He was lean but corded with muscle, and his intense eyes met Theo's with an unspoken challenge. It was clear Baldwin was the kind of man who thrived on intimidation.

As they approached, Cathy slipped out from the crowd and joined them, nodding at Theo. Dan looked at her, his brow furrowed. "So...what now?"

"They're waiting for you," she said, a note of warning in her tone. "Just go in and don't die you still have to pay me"

Theo strode forward into the circle, and the crowd's energy shifted, the raucous laughter turning to rowdy chants. Some in the group started yelling Baldwin's name, while others pounded their sake jugs against the ground, creating a rhythm that filled the air. "Fight! Fight! Fight!" they chanted, the sound rising like a war cry. Some howled like wolves, while others snarled like beasts, feeding off each other's fervor.

Theo entered the center of the circle, and Baldwin stepped forward to face him. Just as the intensity reached its peak, Ragnar lifted his hand, silencing the crowd.

Then, from the edge of the fire's glow, a tall, shadowed figure stepped forward. As he moved into the light, the crowd's noise died completely. Theo could feel the hairs rise on the back of his neck; even the toughest-looking mercenaries seemed to go rigid at the sight of this man. His presence alone had silenced them.

The man was Talon. His face was lined with deep scars, and his muscular frame bore marks of countless battles. He was slightly shorter than Baldwin but exuded an air of authority that commanded respect. Talon's eyes, piercing and calculating, held Theo's gaze as he stepped to the center, the only sounds now the crackling of the fire, the chirping of crickets, and the faint lap of the lake water against the shore.

In a voice deep and resonant, Talon addressed the crowd. "Tonight, we gather because a boy from nowhere stands here to challenge one of our own-Baldwin, the seventh commander of the Varghr mercenaries." He paused, letting the weight of his words settle. "Boy, state your name."

Theo stood his ground, meeting Talon's intense gaze. "I'm Theo."

Talon nodded, sizing him up. "I am Talon, chief commander of Varghr and the right hand of our leader, Fenrir. Tonight, I officiate this challenge between Theo-a former slave-and Baldwin, the Eagle himself."

A ripple of murmurs spread through the crowd at Talon's words, but the silence quickly returned as everyone waited, eyes darting between Baldwin and Theo. The fire cast sharp shadows on Baldwin's face as he smirked, his hands flexing as if they itched for a fight.

5. The crowd erupted into a fresh wave of cheers, even louder than before. Most were chanting Baldwin's name, their voices thick with loyalty and admiration, while a smaller group cheered for Theo-awed by his bravery in challenging one of the Varghr's elite. Around the fire, rumors began to circulate in hushed tones, weaving tales of Theo's exploits.

"I heard he once took down a demon dragon," one grizzled veteran muttered, awe in his voice.

"Yes, yes! I heard that too, but it is said it was a demon lord" someone else whispered excitedly. "And months ago, wasn't there a story of a boy annihilating an entire bandit gang?"

"Right, right! Killed thirty men on his own, they say," another added, nodding.

The murmurs painted Theo as something close to a legend, but he remained silent, his gaze focused solely on Baldwin, who was basking in the crowd's adulation. Talon stepped back, giving the fighters space, while Baldwin threw his arms in the air, roaring triumphantly as the crowd thundered in response. Rhae tossed him a massive glaive, nearly as tall as Theo himself, its broad, wickedly sharp blade gleaming in the firelight. Baldwin caught it easily, hefting it with one hand, and raised it above his head, roaring again as the crowd's energy surged to a fever pitch.

Theo's face was calm, almost serene. Despite the fierce cheers for Baldwin, he seemed unaffected, his focus like a razor's edge. There was a strange glint in his eye-a hint of something devilish, a flicker of excitement that only seemed to grow as he watched Baldwin. Dan and Cathy stood nearby, tense and uneasy. Dan clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the moment; he had seen Theo besting many of great strength before, but Baldwin was different. Dan's confidence was shaken. Cathy, too, looked anxious, her eyes flitting from Theo to Baldwin.

With a calm determination, Theo unsheathed his sword-a massive black blade, broad and dark, nearly as long as he was tall and it is made of a strong unknown metal. Its edge gleamed with a faint, menacing shimmer as he raised it to face Baldwin. Talon's voice cut through the night, sharp and commanding. "Begin!"

In an instant, Baldwin moved, swinging his glaive in a swift arc toward Theo. The blade cut through the air with a deadly whistle, but Theo reacted just as fast, intercepting Baldwin's strike with his own sword. The clash sent a shower of sparks dancing through the air as the blades met, their energy crackling. A faint aura began to emerge around Theo-a swirl of black and crimson smoke that twisted and coiled around him.

Baldwin laughed, his voice rough and amused. "Not bad" His grin was savage as he hefted his glaive again, swinging with renewed force.

Theo felt the power behind each swing, struggling to parry the strikes as Baldwin attacked with increasing ferocity. Baldwin used both ends of his glaive in a deadly rhythm, thrusting with the spear tip and slicing with the bladed edge, pushing Theo back. Theo's breaths came faster, his focus sharpening as his own aura intensified, the dark crimson tendrils now seeping from him like a shroud.

With each clash, Baldwin seemed to grow stronger, his muscles bulging as his own aura-an earthy yellow and brown glow-spread across his body. His eyes gleamed, and feathers sprouted along his arms and shoulders, his face contorting as his features twisted into a half-eagle, half-man form. He let out a fierce cry and lunged forward, attempting to cleave Theo in two with a powerful downward strike.

Theo sidestepped, evading the deadly blow, and retaliated with a punch to Baldwin's jaw. The force of the strike made Baldwin stumble back, blood trickling from his mouth, but he only grinned wider, a gleam of excitement lighting up his eyes. His laughter was wild, feral, and his attacks became even more brutal, the crowd roaring with each blow.

The two of them moved at blinding speed, their strikes filling the night with the sharp ring of metal on metal. Baldwin's glaive whirled and slashed as he pressed forward, forcing Theo to block and dodge. Each strike grew fiercer, their movements whipping the air around them into a frenzied storm. Black and crimson tendrils of energy mingled with Baldwin's yellow-brown aura, creating a wild glow that seemed to shift the very winds.

As the battle intensified, the crowd could feel the sheer power of the two warriors clashing. Trees shook, and the fire crackled louder, flaring higher as if it, too, was caught up in the energy of the fight.

6. Rhae leaned closer to Tusk, bending slightly to match his frame, her voice barely a whisper. "Is that the same boy, The former slave who slaughtered those bandits on their own turf?"

Tusk nodded, his eyes narrowing as he studied Theo. "Aye, I'm believing it's him. That black blade of his-it's exactly as they described. They say he killed those bandits mercilessly, like he had a score to settle. No one knows why he did it... or what drove him to attack them."

As they murmured, the fierce clash raged on. Theo and Baldwin stood locked in combat, each radiating an intense aura. Theo's face twisted in a sinister blend of rage and exhilaration, his expression dark and wild. Around him, his Reikon flared-a furious glow of black and crimson waves, swirling like a dark vortex that seemed to pull the very air toward him.

Baldwin, too, had changed, his own Reikon-yellow dust and earthy brown waves-cascading around him, altering his form until he was no longer merely human. He had transformed into a powerful, mythical creature-a figure resembling a humanoid Garuda. His outstretched wings were layered with reddish-brown and golden feathers that glinted in the firelight, and his majestic tail feathers flowed behind him, fanning out dramatically like the plumage of a royal bird of prey. His head was that of an eagle, with a sharp, curved beak, intense, piercing eyes, and feathers forming a crown-like crest. His torso and arms, still muscular and human-like, radiated strength, while his legs ended in powerful talons that dug into the earth.

The crowd was entranced, their voices rising in awe. Cathy, Dan, and even Theo himself couldn't help but stare, captivated by Baldwin's transformation into this majestic creature. Baldwin roared, his powerful wings beating against the wind as he soared high above the trees, his form silhouetted against the firelit sky. In one swift, powerful motion, he folded his wings and dove, speeding downward with his glaive raised, aiming to strike Theo with the full force of his descent.

Theo's eyes gleamed with excitement, his body tensed and ready as he took a stance. He braced himself, his black blade at the ready. When Baldwin descended like a meteor, their weapons met with a deafening clash. The impact sent a shockwave across the forest, flattening trees in a half-mile radius as if sliced by an unseen blade. The ground beneath Theo cratered, fractured by the sheer force of Baldwin's strike, yet Theo stood firm, unyielding against the attack.

"Talon!" someone called out, watching in awe as the dust began to settle. Talon, seeing the intensity of their combat, raised a hand and shouted, "That'll be all!" His voice cut through the air, commanding the battlefield with the finality of a seasoned leader. Baldwin halted mid-motion, his wings retracting as he resumed his human form, his gaze assessing Theo with newfound respect. Around them, the crowd fell into a surprised hush, murmuring at the sheer power Theo had shown by standing his ground against Baldwin.

Rhae, Tusk, and Ragnar exchanged approving glances, nodding as Talon turned to them for their judgment. "Do we accept him into the Varghr?" he asked, voice deep and resolute.

One by one, they voiced their approval. Talon looked back at Theo, a proud gleam in his eye. "Then it's settled. From this day forward, you're a Varghr mercenary." The crowd erupted in cheers as Talon continued, his voice carrying over the camp. "But understand the rules, Theo. These are the bonds that tie us together."

Rule #1 - Loyalty Above All: Never betray, abandon, or harm a fellow member. Stand united, especially in times of adversity. We protect our own.

Rule #2 - Pride and Power: Never kneel to any king, queen, or ruler. We stand as equals, side by side, with our own.

LAST BUT IMPORTANT Rule #3 - Honor in Departure: If you must leave, do so when all is secure. Never desert your comrades in times of threat or peril.

Theo gave a firm nod. "I'll accept them. And I'll abide by them," he declared, his voice unwavering.

As the fire crackled between them, casting flickering shadows across their faces, Talon's eyes met Theo's, a glint of experience and understanding in their depths. He crossed his arms, his voice gruff with the weight of countless battles. "Speak your aim, Theo. What fuels your blade?"

Theo held his gaze, his expression unreadable, guarded. "My purpose is mine alone," he said quietly, but his voice held a steeliness that left no room for doubt. "But I vow-it'll never endanger our kin."

Talon nodded slowly, the barest hint of approval tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Keep your secrets if you must," he replied, his voice low but resolute. "But know this: if the day ever comes, every blade here will fight for your cause, just as you would for ours. Such is the bond of Varghr."

A silent understanding passed between them, a bond forged not through words but in shared strength and the unyielding spirit of the Varghr.

7. Talon's voice boomed across the gathering, cutting through the excitement that hung in the air. "So, what about this Dan, your friend?" he asked, raising an eyebrow at Theo.

Theo smiled, a hint of pride in his tone. "He's not half bad himself. He's strong."

Talon nodded, intrigued. "If you vouch for him, I can officiate the next challenge. He can take on anyone in the crowd."

At that moment, Dan stepped forward, his gaze unwavering. "I want to challenge Tusk," he declared, his voice steady despite the nervousness flickering behind his eyes.

Talon's surprise was evident. "Tusk? He's the fourth commander and three ranks above Baldwin. Do you really want to challenge him?"

Dan squared his shoulders, determination etched on his face. "I might not be as strong as Theo or Baldwin, but I'm fast."

Talon considered him for a moment, then nodded. "Very well. I'll allow it." He turned to Tusk, who stood with a calm demeanor. "Tusk, are you willing to accept this challenge?"

Tusk nodded, a slight smirk on his lips. "I accept."

As they took their stances, Dan gripped his double-edged knives, each blade different in design but equally sharp and menacing. He held one knife in his right hand and the other in his left, the sleek weapons reflecting the flickering firelight. Tusk, however, stood bare-handed, his fists clenched tight and ready.

Theo and Cathy moved to the side to watch the showdown unfold. Cathy crossed her arms, eyes narrowing as she assessed Dan. "I know that you are strong, but do you think Dan got a chance."

Theo chuckled softly, trying to reassure her. "Last you saw him was more than a year ago. Dan has improved a lot. He might not look it, but he's good."

Cathy's brow furrowed in concern. "I hope he is strong, because when it comes to raw power, no one in the entire kingdom is hailed as strong as Tusk."

"Don't worry," Theo said with a reassuring smile, knowing full well that Cathy's concern ran deeper than just the match.

"Why would I worry for that crackhead?" she retorted, but her tone betrayed her anxiety. "I'm just worried about myself, you know? My life is at stake too. If Dan loses..."

Theo's expression softened as he caught the glimmer of worry in her eyes. He understood that beneath her bravado lay a genuine concern for Dan's safety.

At that moment, Talon raised his arm high, commanding the attention of the crowd. "Begin!" he shouted, his voice echoing through the clearing.

The crowd erupted in cheers, a wave of excitement washing over them as they rallied behind Dan. For some reason, after witnessing Theo's prowess, they had taken an immediate liking to Dan, as if they were already one of their own, a brother in arms about to prove himself.

Dan steeled himself, heart pounding and thinking to himself man you are over your head challenging Tusk who do you think of yourself. as he focused on Tusk, who remained calm and collected, his eyes sharp and calculating. The crowd's roars filled the air.

8. As the challenge began, an overwhelming aura emanated from Tusk, dark purple waves of Reikon swirling around him like a storm. In contrast, Dan glowed faintly with a soft white light that seemed almost insignificant in comparison. Dan is crying inside for challenging Tusk, Tusk shifted, transforming into a humanoid boar, his powerful muscles rippling beneath his skin. The transformation only enhanced his already intimidating presence; he looked as if even the fastest spear thrown at him would merely bounce off without leaving a mark.

The crowd felt the shift in energy, a palpable tension filling the air as they took in Tusk's form. Theo couldn't help but think to himself, Can Dan at least land a blow or get near Tusk?.

With a burst of speed, Dan rushed at Tusk, aiming to strike, but Tusk evaded effortlessly despite his bulky frame. At almost six feet tall-only an inch or two shorter than Dan-Tusk was surprisingly quick. Dan launched a flurry of attacks, slashing with his blades, but Tusk sidestepped each strike with ease.

Frustrated, Dan retreated for a moment to gather himself, but Tusk was quick to capitalize. With a powerful punch, he struck the air, sending a shockwave that caught Dan square in the chest. Dan stumbled back, coughing up blood and falling to one knee, but he quickly pushed himself back to his feet, determination lighting his eyes.

In a blur, Dan charged again and managed to slash Tusk's arm. It was a shallow cut, barely breaking the skin, but blood droplets fell to the ground, and the crowd gasped in amazement. It was rare for anyone to even put a scratch Tusk, let alone land a hit. Their admiration for Dan swelled, and the atmosphere shifted from tension to excitement.

Seeing the battle, Talon raised his hand, calling for an end to the match. The crowd erupted in cheers for Dan, and Tusk, with a grin, lifted Dan in a show of respect for his courage and skill, Dan thought to himself that if not for Talon he would be crushed by Tusk.

Baldwin rose with his sake cup, for both Dan and Theo, while Ragnar sported a smirk of approval. Rhae, casting glances at Theo, seemed impressed. Talon turned to the gathered commanders-Rhae, Tusk, Ragnar, and Baldwin-and asked for their approval to allow Dan to join the Varghr Mercenary. Each commander nodded in agreement, and Talon announced loudly, "Dan is now a part of the Varghr Mercenary! Remember the rules I shared earlier."

Excitement coursed through Dan as he accepted the announcement, jumping with joy alongside Cathy. The atmosphere transformed into a celebration, drinks flowing freely as they rejoiced over Dan and Theo's new beginnings within the mercenary group. Baldwin approached Theo, sharing a cup of sake with him, while Dan and Tusk toasted to their newfound camaraderie. The party continued, laughter and merriment filling the air until exhaustion took hold of everyone.

Baldwin, however, found his way to Cathy. "So, are you going to join me?" he asked, a playful glint in his eye.

"Come on, we won! Do I still have to go with that?" Cathy replied, feigning annoyance but unable to hide her amusement.

"It's okay," Baldwin said, sincerity in his tone. "I'm not here about the deal. Just as I said earlier in the bar, I want you. I can't let this go. Why don't you pardon this giant with your beauty?"

Cathy laughed, shaking her head. "Fine, but I want you to pay."

Meanwhile, Rhae approached Theo, who sat alone by the lake, nursing a drink. "So, what's your story, boy?" she asked, her voice sweet yet inquisitive.

Theo, half-drunk, noticed Rhae's reflection in the lake's water and turned to face her. He remained silent, his guard up.

With a beautiful smile, Rhae closed the distance between them. "I like you. You could have taken out Baldwin if you went all out. Why did you hold back?"

"I didn't," Theo replied, attempting to deflect.

"Don't kid me," Rhae insisted, playfully nudging him. "We didn't become commanders just by chance. We know strength when we see it. Just tell me why."

"I didn't want to undermine one of the commanders," Theo explained. "If I'm going to join the group, I wanted to be good."

Rhae laughed lightly. "Don't tell Baldwin that. He'll kill you for holding back. I didn't know either; I was just testing you."

Theo maintained a poker face, trying to hide his discomfort at her teasing. As they stood up, she said, "I'll meet you all in the morning."

"Come to the Tavern by dawn," Rhae called after him.

As Theo wandered back to their campsite, he found Dan fully intoxicated, slumped beside Tusk, who was sharing a laugh with a few others. They were scribbling on Dan's face with coal, each line drawing more laughter from the group. Theo grinned and hoisted Dan onto his shoulders, calling out, "Goodnight!" to Tusk.

"Stay for another drink," Tusk suggested.

Theo smiled, shaking his head. "I've had more than my share today. Thanks, though."

"Fine, maybe another day," Tusk conceded, and Theo left for the campsite, gently laying Dan down in his bed before finding a comfortable branch in a nearby tree to settle in for the night. The sound of revelry faded into the distance, and sleep soon claimed him, wrapping him in dreams.