News of Mark's unorthodox tactics, particularly the devastating swarm of clones he unleashed against the Harbinger, spread through the land like wildfire. Bards sang tales of the "Clone Master," his exploits embellished with fantastical details. Tavern gossip buzzed about his uncanny ability, sparking a wave of curiosity and, in some cases, fear.
Mark, however, wasn't thrilled about the sudden notoriety. He preferred the anonymity of a lone adventurer, not a walking target for every opportunistic mercenary or power-hungry faction. Elara, ever the pragmatist, saw it differently.
"This attention could be a double-edged sword," she said, sharpening her sword with practiced strokes. "Sure, it attracts trouble, but it also attracts potential allies."
Kai chimed in, his eyes gleaming with a strategist's glint. "Elara's right. We could use this to our advantage. Imagine, powerful guilds seeking a partnership with the Clone Master! We could leverage their resources to expedite our training and gather intel on the Tower."
Mark sighed, rubbing his temples. He hated to admit it, but Kai's point held merit. Their journey to the Tower would be arduous, and any help they could garner would be invaluable.
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Suddenly, a commotion outside the hidden cave entrance shattered their conversation. An armored knight, his emblem depicting a crimson fist, barged into the room, four other knights flanking him.
"Mark, the Clone Master," the lead knight boomed, his voice dripping with a smug arrogance. "We are here on behalf of the Dominion. You will come with us willingly, or…" he trailed off, gesturing towards his men.
Mark's heart hammered against his ribs. The Dominion. A notorious faction notorious for their ruthless tactics and thirst for power. They were the last group he wanted any association with.
Elara stood up, her hand instinctively moving towards the hilt of her sword. "We don't answer to the Dominion," she growled.
The knight chuckled, a humorless sound. "Resistance is futile," he declared. "Your clones have piqued the interest of our esteemed leader, Lord Malison. He has a...proposition for you."
Mark locked eyes with Elara and Kai. A silent conversation passed between them. They were outnumbered and outmaneuvered. For now, they had no choice but to comply.
As the knights escorted them out of the cave, Mark couldn't shake the feeling of unease. This 'proposition' from the Dominion didn't bode well. Had their success against the Harbinger merely painted a target on their backs? He stole a glance at his companions, their faces drawn with worry but resolute. He knew one thing for sure – they were in for a whole new level of trouble.