Corrupted souls, Living Ether, The Sea of Souls, Oblivion, Reincarnation and finally that creature. So much I didn’t know.
I sat along the banks of a river only a few miles from the cave which I transformed, contemplating my future. It had been a few days since my second breakthrough and most of that time was split between destroying transports and testing the extent of my newfound power.
The first change I noticed was how easy it was to dual cast. Before it took considerable concentration to maintain two circuits but now, I could maintain 4 easily enough and 5 if I really wanted to push the limits of my control. As far as I knew the human limit was 4 simultaneous circuits.
Next was the actual act of casting. It was common practice to use your hands as both a medium to transfer ether to the circuit and a reference point for aiming a spell. But with my level of control, I didn't even have to use my hands anymore. I simply willed the circuit to change orientation to aim a spell.
The means could summon a spell in any orientation I chose. In front, above, directly below, behind me. The only limitation to how I could summon circuits was distance. The farther I summoned the spell circuit from me the greater inefficiency. At around 10 feet in front of me even light spells which I could use without thought cost as much stamina as an earth spell.
This allowed me to develop a completely unique way of fighting. With 5 circuits at my command and a casting speed so fast it was practically instant. I could maintain a near perfect defense while being able to return fire. This was done by doing shield stacking on myself. Two of my circuits will be used to maintain a constant cycle of radiant shields. Dismissing and resummoning to give myself a way to counterattack and raise a defense faster that any human could react.
Even if I was being bombarded by dozens of spells and one was able to get through, the microscopic drop in defense, my radiant carapace would be sufficient. With my transformation came a greater affinity for light ether. While using light magic I could overcharge a circuit almost infinitely. The only limitation was my stamina, which at this point was monstrously large. My radiant carapace became so powerful that it would take well over a dozen fireballs to get through it.
The only drawback from my transformation was my affinity for every other attenuation.
It wasn't a problem for fire and air, though those spells cost nearly 5 times as much stamina. Earth and water spells, however, cost nearly 15 to 20 times as much stamina and that was just at a base level. Overcharging would make it exponentially worse.
I do recall Sarah saying that the greater one's affinity for one attenuation the worse the others became, but I never expected it to be this bad. It seems for all my power some rules are simply set in stone. Regardless, I can confidently say that I am likely the most powerful light mage in the world at least compared to humans.
I considered hiding the extent of my power but now with the confidence that almost no mage would be able to best me in combat. I decided it was time to be bolder, the baroness paid me a small fortune for all my effort in the war close to 80,000 gelding.
I tumbled the idea over and over in my head on whether it was foolish to invest in her. In truth it was likely her loyalty could not be guaranteed. If it became public knowledge, I could grant power to anyone with just a touch. Two things were likely to occur.
One: People would beggar themselves to be sure that that kind of power was on their side.
Two: Others would try to prevent them from acquiring that power. Attempted assassination was practically guaranteed.
I stood up and cast a shield nearly a mile across and then dismissed the spell. Then I created a radiant shield around 10 feet across, so dense with ether that it started to block out light. That was barely even a drop from the ocean that was my stamina. I dismissed it and sat back down, considering.
I remembered the creature’s words. 'What I know of magic is barely a drop'.
It wasn't a question of power at this point. In terms of light attenuation, I'm sure I was without peer. I needed to learn more, enchanting, elven magic, secret spells that simple bargaining won't buy. I was only one elf.
I switched my vision to the ether; another benefit I found after my change was the ability to see into the ether while casting. While I would be limited to 3 spell circuits, it was a worthy sacrifice when dealing with shadow mages. I switched back and continued to think, really trying to determine the best way to go forward.
The greatest of human mages had entire countries backing their power, my wealth couldn't compare to the imperial family. What kind of magical artifacts and enchanted equipment would they have at their disposal? I didn't know. How would I compare with a fully equipped grandmaster mage?
A good gauge would be a comparison to Princess Morianne herself, the only other unique mage I know of. I likely had more raw stamina, but such a difference can be made up by enchanted equipment. Who knows what kind of enchantments she would have on a full set of Mithrite armor. Not to mention any companions she has or amplifiers for that matter.
That's the difference, isn’t it? I was one elf where she had an entire nation and generations of mages and enchanters all funneling their collective knowledge into a single person.
My heart started to beat faster.
Is that the path? My mind stuck on that idea.
My own nation, the blood and sweat of tens of thousands all being concentrated into a single mage. Noire made a loud cry as she landed carrying a cow. She had to have stolen that from a farm somewhere. That gave me another idea.
I could make a hundred Noire’s easily and I’m sure I could figure out a way for them to take commands from people other than me.
100 people on flying mounts all enhanced my abilities, questing across this world with one mission. To bring back magic knowledge to me, their king. The more I thought about it the more I liked the idea.
My own kingdom, my own lands, one nation under me.
I've never tested what my abilities would do to livestock, plants, and non-mages. I could build a kingdom like no other. Couldn’t I? How many blind, deaf, deformed, diseased or crippled wretches are there in the world? Would they not offer their very souls to me for health, beauty, riches, and power.
Benny wasn't a particularly talented mage, just more driven than most. With a hundred of her all on the backs of etheric beasts under my command. Who in this world would dare challenge that kind of power? I'm sure some idiot would but with no mages in the sky but mine, well even the Entire Vendalian empire would be little more than lambs to slaughter.
I shifted my glance to the ether and watched Noire and I noticed something new. There was an almost imperceptible line of living ether flowing from me to her. It was so slight that it was almost invisible. Without my change I likely would never have noticed it. If I truly focused, I could even see living ether in the air.
I examined my body using the living ether. Before I could easily see the complex organization of tissues that made up bodily function. Now it was more. I could literally see into my cells, the organelles going through chemical processes so complex my mind had a hard time deciphering it. I pushed further into the nuclei, to my very DNA. Billions of pairs of DNA began to unfurl, their meaning revealing themselves to me. It was too much information, too fast my mind could barely keep up. A stab of pain began to split my brain, and I cut off the vision.
I fell back on the ground panting as the migraine slowly faded. But even then, a small smile began to form on my face. Could I morph DNA as easily as I morphed flesh? I couldn’t even begin to consider what I could do with that ability. I needed time to think and really study. I also need test subjects. I took a few minutes to recover and moved on.
“Noire come here” I commanded.
She swallowed the cow and sidled over to me. She towered over me, her head twisted back and forth waiting for a command.
“Do a quick fly over” I commanded again. Trying to picture what I wanted her to do.
Yes, I see it now. Every time I commanded her there was a ripple in the connection as if the true essence of my intention was transferred through it. This is why she won't take commands from others. And likely how she can track me so easily. As she flew into the air the connection became longer and longer. But regardless of how high she flew, the connection remained tethering us to each other. I would have to experiment on how to create this connection with others.
There was one problem however, where would I establish such a kingdom? Not Braken since they were largely too set in their ways to change. Not the elves since I refuse to share power with the Sianna. I know little about the eastern continent but what I do know is that it was split into dozens of countries that didn't get along with each other. There perhaps?
I stood and stretched; my mind was made up. This was my path: I would make myself a king and build a nation of my own. First, however, I would need a last name.
I commanded Noire to land, then I mounted her and continued along with my task. Though my mind was far away.
One week later
I landed in the Baroness’s gardens. Apparently, she had someone watching out for my arrival and just as I was finishing removing the saddle bags from Noire, she, Benny and her command staff exited a side entrance and came over to me.
“Master, you took longer than I thought,” she said. though I could see from her eyes she was eager to get me alone. I did tell her about my true purpose, and she likely wanted to know how it went.
“Baroness” I said as she gave me a nod. Briannah and the rest of her command staff gave me a bow.
“Moon It's good to see you, may I presume that things went well.” the baroness said.
“It was as expected, though I do need some refreshment.” I said.
I turned to Benny and asked, “How is your training?”
“Good master, look” she said, and she cast radiant Barrier. I gave it a once over examining it from within the ether. It was wavering but at least she had it stable, after she mastered this spell, I would move on the healing.
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“Excellent, we can begin with healing spells in a few weeks.” I said.
“Come let's discuss our plans for the end of the war.” The baroness said.
We were in the war room once again going over the map of the area.
The Baroness started. “From our spies in their army, we know now that they are starting to feel the effects of Moon’s attack on their supply lines. Starvation is starting to set in, and we have reports of desertion.”
I added. “I have noticed groups of soldiers fleeing the army, I decided to leave them unharmed.”
She nodded and said. “All we have to do now is keep up the pressure, they know now that we have a flying mage on our side, no doubt they are unwilling to risk their mages in a surprise attack by Moon. So, they have been kept close.”
Feyrun said “Perhaps it is time to break through the blockade. The additional prisoners have been draining our supply of food faster than original projections.”
“How many prisoners are there?” Briannah asked.
“Between 2000 and 2300.” Feyrun announced.
Another general who was the baroness’s cousin said. “They have been fed well and if you would Sir Mage your light orb could be of use to keep them placated. While we are still assembling their identities. Most are willing to forswear any allegiance to their previous lord so long as the lives of their families are assured. Every noble prisoner has already renounced their loyalties as well.”
I gave him a small nod agreeing to his proposal.
The baroness said. “Good. Everything is proceeding as planned, how long until we have to begin rationing.”
“Two weeks,” Anor said.
He had apparently been promoted to chief resource officer for the army.
“We will wait until then to break the blockade. Until then, Moon, can you continue your efforts on their supply line.” the baroness asked.
“Sure, it’s a simple enough task. Though I’m going to rest for a few days.” I said.
“That is acceptable, preparations have been made for your return” she said.
It’s not as if she had any choice. The meeting went on for another half hour. I didn’t really care about the details of their plan, but I might as well learn as much as I could about war while I was here.
Over an hour later I returned to my room where I could finally relax. Benny left with Briannah to do whatever girls their age did with their free time, and I entered my room and disrobed and with Niara’s assistance prepared for a proper bath,
“The baroness ensured that everything would be prepared when you arrived.” Niara said.
“Ok,” I said, not really listening to her.
Entering the luxurious bathing room I now realized what she meant by preparation. There were 3 women waiting inside dressed in revealing clothing that showed off their bodies. All 3 bowed as I entered. I smiled; I could certainly use the distraction.
“Send the Baroness my thanks, now leave me to my bath.” I instructed Niara
“Yes, my lord” she bowed and closed the door.
Two hours later I was lounging in a thick comfortable robe on one of the plush couches in my room. I was nursing a glass of wine, feeling quite content and pleasantly empty.
A knock sounded at my door.
“Enter.” I said.
Benny walked, came over to me and to a seat on the ottoman in front of my couch. She looked excited; no doubt anxious about the news.
“Did you do it?” She asked.
I finished my glass.
“Indeed, however there were a few complications.” I said.
“What kind of complications?” She asked.
Before I started explaining I cast a radiant shield to encompass the entire area around us. I thickened the barrier until not even sound would pass through. She jolted as it simply popped into existence without me moving a muscle. Then I began to explain starting from when I broke through.
Half an hour later.
“That is a problem,” she said.
I kept much of the story a secret, like my suspicion that I was never an elf to begin with or the fact that I was probably a soul from another plane existence that was dragged here against my will. I didn’t even bother explaining how deep my ability to alter bodies went or could go in the future. Nor did I mention the connection between Noire and me and the possibility of recreating the process with her. That last bit was mostly because she probably wouldn’t stop badgering me until I figured it out. All will come in time.
“Indeed, I don’t know enough about my abilities to gauge when it would be safe for you.” I said.
“Yeah,” she said, sounding disappointed. “I’d rather not turn to ash.”
“Still, it’s good that you survived, though I’m not sure about the creatures you met in the Sea of souls?” she asked, checking if she got the name right. I nodded.
“I’m as confused as you are, I need more information before I make any decisions.” I said.
“How is your progress on dual casting?” I asked.
“Not quite there, I should be able to get it by year's end. I can't believe you can do 4 at the same time” she said, sounding astonished.
“It is certainly something. That reminds me, when is your name day?” I asked.
“Oh, in a few months.” She said, though she seemed to have forgotten about it.
“Perhaps we should do something, a night in the town maybe. You could even invite Briannah; I noticed you two have become friends.” I said, wondering what kind of gift she would like.
“Best if it’s just us. Briannah and I aren’t that close.” She said,
It certainly looked like they were close. Though they barely glanced at each other during the war meeting. Was something going on there?
I shrugged, not really caring. “Very well then, just us it is.”
Getting another glass from the bar I poured her a cup.
“For now, let’s enjoy the rest of the day. Our part in this war is coming to an end.” I said.
“Then we move on to the capitol” she said. Then we clicked glasses.
Benny took a deep drink of the slightly smokey, spiced wine. She gave me a conspiratorial glance and said, “So, you and the baroness.”
I chuckled.
Three weeks later
It was largely a boring time in the Hearthaven; my sorties to destroy any shipment of food to the enemy force were becoming infrequent. According to a scouting report starvation was becoming rampant and there were even rumors that the enemy force was considering surrendering. With the breaking of the blockade there was now a constant shipment of food to the city. By sheer attrition, the enemy force was slowly destroying themselves. Now even some of the captured nobles were openly working with the baroness since everyone realized the enemy force had no chance to starve out the city.
It was only a matter of time until they sued for peace with the baroness, however, The Baroness didn’t want the war to end on their terms. So, after inviting me to her room and showing me a good time, she proposed a new stratagem to me.
“So can you do it,” she asked.
We sat on the windowsill in the dead of night staring out at the city. We sipped tea, it had become something of a ritual between us. The entire staff knew about our time together, but the baroness didn’t care. It's not as if any would question her honor since a swift death would be their only reward. I don’t know what the baroness told her staff, but most seemed too petrified of me to hold much of a conversation.
Her latest plan however was something quite different. She wanted me to fly into the center of the enemy encampment and drop the most powerful spell I could muster right in the center. This would kill or injure many of the nobility and command staff. No doubt at this point they had mages on constant lookout for me so it would be dangerous. So that meant she had to pay me.
20,000 gelding she offered me for this one task. But this would effectively end the war in a single stroke. And from her previous plans she already had many second and third cousins to fill the positions left by the dead. Since they were at war it wouldn’t even be classified as murder.
“Very well, though I want something more than coin.” I said.
“Oh, what’s that? Haven’t I given you enough? most men would be satisfied at this point.” she asked, chuckling.
“I am not most men.” I said with a smile.
“What then?” she asked, slightly more serious.
“Enchantment, I want to learn how humans do it. It is illegal to teach someone not sworn to imperial loyalty. Though I’m sure someone with your connections would be able to find someone.” I asked.
From everything I researched about enchantment the process was incredibly difficult in some ways, even more difficult than spellcraft. But in the end, all it required was a good enough mind and control of the ether. That is why enchanters were usually mages with poor affinity for all attenuations. At first, I thought it was strange that teaching magic was less regulated than teaching enchantment. It wasn’t until I met other mages that I realized why that was.
All mages will reach a limit to their abilities, stamina, affinity or simply running out of spells to learn. That's why nobles hoard grimoires and why all the magical schools and enhancement academies are in the capitol. A mage would be forever limited in their potential until they gave in and swore themselves to imperial rule. Every mage with an amplifier, even the baroness was sworn to imperial loyalty. Though I did want to learn I wasn’t inflexible, this was more of a test for the baroness. I wanted to see how she would react if I asked her to put herself in a situation where she could be compromised.
“That would require you getting in touch with the underground enchanters. The moment it was found out you and your apprentice were trying to forge such a connection. You would be labeled enemies of the state” she said, seeming to not be enthused by the idea.
“The best I can do is introduce you to a few people with those kinds of contacts. If you find yourself in opposition to the state, then you are on your own. I will nor risk myself in such a way.” She said her voice was clear and firm. She was dead serious; she would leave me out to dry.
“I’ll do it for 40,000 gelding.” I said. I had no interest in begrudged half enthused help. I couldn’t blame her for her stance. In her position I would do the same. Why risk so much when you already have your ambition in your hands?
Her eyes twitched, realizing that this was a test she no doubt failed. If she had instead offered me something else of equal value or attempted to steer me away from my course because of the inherent danger to us. I would reconsider our alliance to be something deeper.
But no, she would steer me towards an end she likely thought would end in failure and made it clear I would be on my own in this pursuit. A perfectly logical and reasonable stance. Unfortunately, it was a stance that made it clear to me that I was still, in her mind, a tool to be used, not an invaluable ally. Therefore, her loyalty cannot be relied upon.
“When would you like to have it done?” I said.
She recovered quickly. “Three days from now, my spies report rumors of surrender, but I want total victory.”
“As you wish Baroness.” I said with a charming smile.
Her eyes tightened, in private I never called her baroness.
I looked at the night sky. The moons were not out, but the stars were, and it was a beautiful sight. I sent out a command to Noire to fly past the window. Less than a minute later her large form rocketed by, then returned to whatever she was doing.
“Come” she said, full of charm. “Let us return to bed.” She pulled me along, dropping her robes in the process. I shamelessly admired the view.
“Of course, Allyssia,” I said.
We continued our activities for the rest of the night. It’s better that she believes this is a viable path of manipulation than trying anything unexpected.
Three days later
I rode atop of Noire at over around 5000 feet in the air, high enough that no one would be able to tell the difference between Noire’s gray feathers and the night sky. I could see the army below concentric rings of tents and standing fortifications. Hundreds of lanterns and torches made it easy to pick out the center of the camp. All useless against someone who commands the sky.
‘Dive’ I commanded Noire.
Aiming at the center of the encampment we dove her speed enhanced by both gravity and a small amount of ether.
5000 feet.
4000 feet.
3000, 2000. I overcharged an air blast to the highest extent of my abilities. There were bright flashes of lightning in the sky as the spell rippled with power. From this steep a dive angle all I needed to do was aim forward. I released. Noire pulled up in the same instant, turning the downward momentum forward. This slammed me into the seat as we pulled enough G’s to tear her wings off. I spotted a few spells flying at us before we rocked off into the distance. At our insane speed and with the camouflage of the night sky hitting us was almost impossible. An instant later my spell detonated.
I turned around in the saddle to see the pressure wave expanding sending everything flying.
‘This story will spread.’ I presumed.
In one night, I had likely changed the face of war. With Noire, standing fortifications and city walls were useless. What was to stop me from simply flying over them and turning their cities into a molten ruin?
I had certainly become a threat to those in power, now we would have to see. Will they beggar themselves to have me on their side? or will they think me too powerful and try to eliminate me. Either way I don’t care. No one, not even Benny, really understood the extent of my power and ambitions. By the time they learned it would be far too late.