Chapter 18 - Preparations
After the battle, in the central plains of the Country of Roses, Meloire, a dead silence fell on the land of death. The land that existed as plush green fields is now riddled with pools of blood, mutilated human body parts, and deep sword marks on the earth. Moreover, a noticeable scar of sand was the outcome of the devastating technique, Heaven and Hell, and every swing of his sword brought a crushing gravity.
Lord Vicegerent covered his face with the hood of the robe and flew gracefully towards his people. He used the skill, Telekinesis, and sent Sijjin and Illiyin to Dario in which both the sacred swords pierced the ground in a standing “X” position.
While still in the air, Jinn amplified his voice via nanomachines for everyone to hear. In fact, the technology can go as such that if the user wishes for no one to hear but a few specific individuals are within the capabilities of quantum nanomachines. Quite the godly ability.
“My disciple, I give you full command to secure Meloire,” after such words were said, Lord Vicegerent left the same way he came, from the heavens. Only this time, Jinn could be seen as a ray of light the moment he moves his body while energy particles glimmered.
The “god” of the Omen Sect made his first public appearance to the world of Soa. Dario turned around and saw his people in a trance. Their pupils were dilated. They had witnessed a “god” in action to whom they submitted themselves. Still, such a scene was a slow thing to comprehend. The battle ended quickly as if Jinn had taken a nature walk.
Breaking them from their trance-like state, Dario woke them up with telepathy, “Lord Hades, Elder Saru, King Thranduil, King Gawain, I will take a few forces. Please return to Master’s side.”
Lord Strategist Hades, Elder Shin Sarutobi, and all high-ranking members of the Omen Sect immediately understood. What was left were roughly 150 members mounted on desert horses and other mounts. In total, the young disciple would lead, Elder Saru’s disciple, Kongol, and the Giant tribe, the Iron Slasher group, Human Peak Realm Warriors, Peak Realm Dwarven Berserkers, Peak Realm Drows, and the Undead Familiars.
All of them, hiding away evading numerous enemies. The Omen Nation was so powerful that the entire world feared them and that fear lead to The Coalition Act.
Returning to the newly formed Omen Sect and with the blessed news of the Lord Vicegerent’s return, the members’ resolve for revenge was the sole driving factor that moved them. And it was a terrible sight.
The young disciple, Dario, led the charge and broke the steel gates of Meloire, “Defend the gates!! The enemy has arrived!” A soldier yelled atop the palisade. However, it was of no use. In a sudden outburst of power, Dario unleashed a power only a fully-fledged Heavenly Demon can use - Flurry of Styx.
Aura Techniques: [Skill - Flurry of Styx] Rank: EX Proficiency: 87%
-Release a consecutive series of palm energy condensing into one giant palm of pure destructive force. Siddhartha, more commonly known as the “Buddha,” was an enlightened being that could describe the way to find balance in life. The religion of the Heavenly Demon Divine Cult followed such a religion and teach it to their worshippers and followers.
-A technique that was refined beyond perfection after many generations.
Indeed, it was a technique a true Heavenly Demon can fully utilize, however, its power was lacking that of one. Reflux of intense pain resulted from using an attack beyond one’s capabilities. Externally, Dario held a hardened expression ready for battle, but, internally, a new pain was felt.
Dario didn’t care all the same. He couldn’t get the words that were said to him before his Master went to battle alone.
“This is how a Heavenly Demon should fight.”
After witnessing the slaughter personally done by his Master, a certain resolve formed within the young disciple. A resolve certain and true. His eyes reflected such a resolve. What he saw in his Master were the heights to which he can someday ascend. Therefore, he neglected the pain brought on by performing techniques that his body could not endure. This is when he understood, pain begets growth and suffering is the way forward.
Dario’s Flurry of Styx Aura Technique was as big as the steel gates of Meloire. Similar to medieval European design, the structure did nothing to stop the dense Aura that pushed and disintegrated a portion of the steel structure.
Kaboom!!!
Then, the Omen Sect members looked like they went into a frenzy. In reality, their focus on killing the enemy was as true as breathing air. What they didn’t realize was that it was all planned by Jinn. Of course, his actions were meant for his people to be this way at this current time. He knew that showing himself like that would send them into a trance. What they did not know was that Veda was producing waves of “zeal” like how the ability of the “power cosmic” can induce a tranquil state of mind. In this case, zeal is just like how it sounds; a fervor unrelenting and constant.
It was like a flame had lit inside of them that would never go out. And as such, the slaughter of the Meloirean troops didn’t even last more than half an hour.
Against Meilorean troops composed of lowlives acting as soldiers while being led by Knights in the Peak Realm were not a match against the Omen troops. Of course, the quality of soldiers is always the deciding factor in any war. On Viscount Baldo’s side, the people of significance in terms of military power would be the Knights who can properly utilize Aura and the noble himself who is a 4th Class Mage. Whereas, the Omen Sect has all members learn in the ways of Aura low or high-leveled. Concluding the battle after his departure, the Country of Roses, Meloire, was conquered in a single day.
***
A couple of days had already passed and Dario was busily stabilizing the newly conquered territory. The Country of Roses had internal problems where it was questioned if such a country was worthy to be conquered. After all, being left with the problems of a land that was exploited to the utmost left only a few desirable things. However, Lord Vicegerent had willed that Meloire returns to its rightful owner, therefore, none had dared to disobey Jinn’s command, nor would they.
The young disciple had ordered Eldar Calamor to lead a retinue of Omen troops and purge the capital of all lingering remnants of Viscount Baldo’s influence. Not only that, Shavu drug farms, slave trade, and minor or major criminal activity all over the mid-sized country be quelled permanently by Parsifal, Azad, Revenant, and the Iron Slasher group. They were deployed not long after the taking of the Meloirean capital. It is today that their mission would be complete.
Knock! Knock! “Leader!” Gerald Killeway had returned from the mission. Through telekinesis, the door opened.
“Is everything settled?” Questioned Dario.
“All is as you’ve ordered. The outlying villages are now in the process of migrating to the capital. Azad, Parsifal, Revenant, and the Iron Slasher group are escorting them as we speak.”
“Very good. With this, there will be no obstacles for Meloire to overcome. Internal affairs are the last bit to manage.”
“Leader, how will we manage a country with no forts? They have no means of protecting themselves.”
It was a reasonably sound question, especially coming from Gerald who thinks nothing but fighting all the time.
“You surprise me, Gerald. Worry not, we will allocate members of the Omen society to live here until the Meloirean people have fully accepted us.”
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“It shouldn’t be hard. The people who saw us attack their military seemed hopeful at their demise.”
What Gerald had surmised was correct. The Meloirean people were a collection of people not native to the land, but, slaves and poor socio-economic denizens from all over the continent. Even the beast-like species were detained as slaves and other non-humans. They were used and abused by a tyrannical Lord. It has been a long time since their hatred motivated them to live on, hoping one day that their prayers may be heard. It didn’t matter who, the Meloirean people wanted anyone even the devil to save them. The people cheered and clamored after the destruction of their former oppressors and welcomed them with open hearts.
After sifting through numerous documents and paperwork regarding internal affairs, Dario placed the last piece of paper atop the stack of documents.
Inhale. Exhale. The young disciple breathed a breath of reprieve, “Everything’s complete. This land will no longer be ruled by crime.”
Knock! Knock! Another person knocked on the door heavily. Eldar Calamor presented himself while levitating a tortured person right next to him whilst walking.
Slam! The Blood Elf released the man and hit the ground, “What is it this time?” Inquired the young disciple.
“This one is the ringleader of all the drug and slave trade. In fact, this little operation they have going in this country spreads into an even wider web. Kuku!” Calamor said with a devious smile.
Understanding what his familiar had said, Dario sighed at the work that had accrued. Sigh. “We’ll assess the problem now. Gerald, go forth and hasten the refugees to the capital.” Gerald Killeway bowed and immediately left thereafter. Dario lifted his hand and the prisoner was lifted as well. “Now, let’s see what’s inside that filthy head of yours, Mr. Ringleader.”
***
Time is of the essence. Dario wanted Meloire to be fully synced with the Omen Sect, adding the Country of Roses as one of the nation’s cities. In the span of several weeks, internal affairs have fully stabilized and the once-denigrated country is now starting to appear like a diamond in the rough.
The young disciple felt it. He was getting closer to completing his duties in Meloire. In truth, the real mission had just gotten closer to the timetable. What’s next on the agenda is that Dario must discover Ebony mines with the richest veins. Moreover, ancient dungeons waiting to be raided can be found in this mineral-rich country.
Conveniently, Dwarves belonging to the Omen Sect already know how to mine and work Ebony metal. Ebony is a material that has yet to appear commercially, making such information regarding the metal known exclusively by the privileged. The Drows and Humans of the Omen Sect also count on that list as well.
A contingent force of Omen members was deployed to Meloire to live, work, and level up. Mostly, families of Fighters and Mages below Peak Realm and 4th-tier were mostly the ones that went. This includes all the species currently of the Omen Sect; Humans, Giants, Dark Elves, and Berserker Dwarves. Almost 75% of the people were young adults ages 17 through 29. They are considered the next generation that would serve the Omen Sect.
With the help of the people of the Omen Sect and the Androids, the creation of a Magic Tower was completed. This feat is an essential act to seal Meloire as one of the Omen Sect's territories forever. With the Arcane knowledge that Eldar Deluc provided, the completion of the "Blood Ebony Tower" was a smooth process.
"We need a Core to power the Tower," Calamor was annoyed, knowing such a valuable thing is as rare as finding a diamond in a desert.
"Easier said than done," Nocturne blurted out. "That item is valuable enough for a King’s ransom. A few of my family members had the honor of stealing one," in a rare instance where the taciturn and shrewd Nocturne spoke, it would be regarding something of monetary value.
"It's fine," replied Dario. The young disciple pulled out a glowing crystal from the Item Box, “This will do.”
!!
Nocturne’s eyes glimmered. He stepped forward and stared hard at the crystal, “J-Just where did you get such a pure crystal?”
“Hmph,” Dario grinned. “From Mount Tian.” The young disciple handed the Mana Crystal Core to Calamor, “Eldar Lich Deluc, the Blood Ebony Tower is under your purview until you produce a circle of Mages.”
“Hohoho!” The elegant and antiquated Blood Elf let out a peal of delightful laughter, “Your will is my command, O’ Sith Lord!”
***
The production of the rare metal, Ebony, went into full swing. Since the installation of the Blood Ebony Tower, the cartographers had an easier time drawing the land in detail. Nooks, crevasses, and hidden caves not seen easily held the most blessings. It was there that ebony ore veins are found abundantly in such places. Now would be a good time to reveal the true value of such a metal.
Ebony is known as the “Volcanic Metal” that is found in a dormant volcano. It is theorized that when volcanoes erupt, Ebony metal is spewn out and travels a great distance. This is why Ebony can be found in or on mountains. Hence, the Ebony material will always have the appearance of a “glass-like volcanic substance.”
It is considered similar in levels to Mithril and Orichalcum, yet, the mineral itself does not alloy with any metal. It must remain pure. Forges were busy working Ebony metal day in and day out. The first who would be equipped was the Death Knights resurrected by Deluc.
A certain criterion has to be met in order to animate high-tier Undead. First and foremost, the vessel must be trained in the ways of an orthodox Knight who can activate Aura, or, similar in level. Luckily, the Knights that Viscount Baldo held as his personal retinue of guards did not turn to ash after Lord Vicegeren’t onslaught. There were close to 30 Knights in the green plains of Meloire and its capital. Every single one of those Knights was responsible for leading 100 troops of Baldo’s army, equaling 3000 troops. All 30 Death Knights were clad in Ebony armor and weapons. With a foreboding appearance and a sight that brings wonder to the eyes, the Death Knights would serve as sentinels for the time being in Meloire.
Last, but not least, a 4th-tier skeletal Mage was added as a member of the circle of Mages in the Blood Ebony Tower. Calamor was delighted to have a pawn whom he can groom into an Elder Lich.
(Author’s note: You already know who that Undead Mage is. I’m joking here.)
After the Undead was properly equipped with Ebony, those of mid-to-high ranking in the Omen Sect have the right to such material. It wouldn’t make sense for everyone to use it because of its rarity. Therefore, people in the Peak Realm, Transcendence Realm, and 4th-tier or above are permitted the use of Ebony. The Berserker Dwarves, Drows, Humans, and the Giants at those levels held different variations regarding the appearance of Ebony armor and weapons.
The Dwarven race is the species that have mastered metallurgy. A Dwarven influence remains true for the Ebony arms forged by the Berserker Dwarves. And, the same could be said for the rest of the species.
With the Dwarves' style seen as “blocky and fitted,” the Drows held “negative spaces” in both the armor and weapons. It was reminiscent of pointy leaves with each space that was carved out. Humans remained balanced in all categories, making the simple design the best design. As for the Giants, very few of them wore Ebony because of their high attribute in defense. Therefore, the Giant Tribe would upgrade their weapons but equip a few pieces of Ebony plate armor. All in all, in terms of weaponry, the Omen Sect shot through the top.
“I leave Meloire in your hands, Deluc. Prepare the people for when my Master gives the call,” Deluc bowed in response.
Dario left and boarded The Regalia outside of the Meloirean Palace.
***
“What do you envision for the future, sir?” Asked Veda.
Sitting on a comfy and decorated chair befitting the decor of a futuristic yacht spaceship, with legs crossed, Jinn was relaxing while sightseeing the galaxy.
“You mean what do I have planned for my disciple?” Jinn replied.
“You’re as sharp as ever, sir. Yes, this humble butler can’t wrap around my head as to why you won’t take over.”
“Indeed. But, where’s the fun in that?” Jinn chuckled. Chuckle. “Toying with the enemy through my disciple...” A grin appeared on his face which was shrouded by his hood.
Overall, Lord Vicegerent moved too fast, or, he reduced his power to the level that his face wouldn’t be seen. It would have been dangerous. Only Grandmasters and Archmages have the highest honor of looking upon Lord Vicegerent’s person.
“Toying with your enemies is unseemly, sir, and is beneath a person such as you,” Veda said.
“Must I lay out every single detail?” Jinn replied in a lazy, arrogant remark.
“I’m afraid this old butler knows nothing but ways of service, sir.”
“Fine,” Jinn took a sip of fine wine. Sip. Like a noble soul, his movements were graceful and attractive to look at. A scholar of aestheticism.
Anyhow, Jinn began to explain the future for Veda to hear. What the butler had expected to hear was an elaborate and sophisticated plan as is usually the case. After all, Veda was fused with Jinn for a long time. Witnessing how The Angel of Death operates is an unforgettable experience that shook the butler through his very core (nanocore).
“You never fail to surprise, sir. Forgive me for my constant inquisitions,” said Veda.
“Isn’t that the nature of a butler? To worry so, for the ones you serve?” Jinn responded.
The old and elegant butler bowed, “It is as you say, sir.” Veda looked upon the man who had brought him into being. Sir, one day I will repay this great debt. He thought. “Sir, there's one question begging to be answered. How long will it take to commence such a plan?”
“Hmph,” a subtle grin appeared on Jinn’s face. “In 2 years’ time.”