—Southeast Divinus, Hyperion —
Near a sheer cliff overlooking water, a large door-like structure surrounded by a field of stones, began to light up, as a purple portal began forming inside.
Near the lively structure, was a small patch of grass that had a tall tree with a large canopy casting shade underneath.
At the very bottom of the tree trunk, a lanky man was leaning against it, seemingly asleep. Noticing the rumbling nearby, the man opened his eyes and looked towards the structure.
‘It’s been a while since someone has activated the gateway…’ the man muttered to himself as he lazily pushed himself off the ground and ambled along towards the gateway.
Standing in wait momentarily, the man saw a figure appear through the portal, whilst two more followed shortly after. They were Nox, Nyx and Sylvie.
“Looks like we all arrived. “ the first figure, Nox, observed the area as his gaze landed on the man staring at him. Tall and very skinny, he had messy brown hair and a dull look in his blue eyes. On his neck, Nox also noticed a claw-like tattoo, thinking that it must be some kind of identification and not just a normal tattoo.
“Passes. “ the man lazily looked at the three, extending his hand.
His eyes fixed on the man, Nox felt that he was a bit odd. Taking out his pass, Sylvie and Nyx gave Nox theirs, so they could look around.
“Here.” Nox handed the three passes to the man, focusing closely on him, waiting to see what he would do.
Glancing over them, the man’s dull eyes gleamed for but a moment when his vision landed on Nox and Nyx’s Races.
“Confirmed. “ the man returned the passes before sauntering back towards that large tree and laying down.
‘Hmm… Krede as an exception, you would think that there would be open surprise if someone saw our unknown races, but his reaction was different, instead hiding it very well… why did he hide it? ’ Nox thought, as his eyes were still fixated on the man.
Once again lying against the tree trunk, the man finally looked at Nox once more, becoming inwardly startled due to his inquisitive gaze.
‘He noticed my slip up, what a scary guy, but him and that woman might be exactly what’s needed.’ the man thought in anticipation, as he returned Nox’s gaze.
‘Interesting. I think I can rule out maliciousness… so be it, we’ll see what happens.’ Nox thought, deciding to drop the matter. If he had poor judgement and this came back to bite him in the ass, then he could only blame himself and just deal with it.
“Ready to leave? “ Nox looked towards the two inspecting the area that looked remarkably like Tartarus' gateway.
“Mmm” Sylvie nodded happily as Nyx glanced at the gatekeeper before following behind Sylvie.
Taking a final, piercing look at the gatekeeper, Nox and the two began walking along the road leading out of the Gateway area.
‘Even that woman, Nyx, seemed to sense something about me... Two anomalies. I hope this works out. ‘ the man thought as he observed their disappearing figures.
About a half hour later, the man placed one hand on his claw tattoo and infused mana into it, causing it to glow and turn lifelike after a moment.
‘Ghostclaw.’ a feminine voice resounded through the man, Ghostclaw’s, mind.
‘A few interesting people came through the Gateway a half hour ago.’ Ghostclaw said, looking in the direction Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie went.
‘Oh? If they’re interesting, then why did you take so long to contact me?’ the woman inquired.
‘They were two women and a man. When I checked their passes, one woman and the man had unknown races. The other woman was a Demon. One of the Ragnarr’s, actually, Sylvie Ragnarr.’ Ghostclaw replied.
‘Two unknowns, are you sure? To be traveling with not one, but two anomalies, Valcor and Ashuen's daughter must be exceptional. Tell me, why did you take so long!?’ the woman exclaimed into Ghostclaw’s mind.
‘Yes, I’m sure. As for the Ragnarr, I believe the same. She felt slightly different compared to a normal Demon, but it might have been my imagination. The anomalies, the man was known as Nox Ferrum and the woman only went by the name Nyx. I… felt that the man was too powerful. If I didn’t wait for the distance to grow, he might have discovered me. Even that woman, Nyx, she only gave me a glance, yet it was as if I was seen through…’ Ghostclaw said reluctantly. He didn’t like that feeling.
‘For you to admit weakness… This is an incredible development for us! I’ll have someone keep an eye on them. I doubt they’re from there, as the Ragnarr’s daughter is traveling alongside them, but there are no guarantees. If all goes well, we can create some kind of cooperation and gain their assistance. Sylvie will almost certainly grow alongside them, which will be three new forces.’ The woman said as Ghostclaw could nearly feel the woman’s anticipation and excitement.
‘Hold on! You had best not send someone to watch them. Just wait for their names to appear somewhere and we can determine then.’ Ghostclaw quickly warned, afraid that Nox or Nyx might notice someone watching them.
Not hearing anything for a bit, Ghostclaw finally heard a reply ‘Yes, you’re right, I was being too rash. I trust your judgement. I’ll forward this information to our Divinus operatives and have them keep an eye out for any new developments.’
‘Alright, we’ll end here. Inform me once you've come to a decision.’ Ghostclaw sent.
‘Of course.’ The woman said as the connection swiftly cut off, returning Ghostclaw’s tattoo back to normal.
‘…Hopefully all goes well.’ He muttered and closed his eyes while lying against the tree.
----------
Walking along the well-made dirt road leading away from the Gateway, Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie were chatting whilst looking around. Lush trees on both sides, with few clouds scattered about, it was quite warm as the sun was high in the sky, bathing everything in light. If you used Earths calendar, it would currently be July.
“Where should we head first? I’ll leave it to the both of you.’ Nox stopped walking and looked at the sky.
“You decide, Sylvie. Master and I do not know the continent’s as much as you. “ Nyx voiced. Nox and her went over many books, but Sylvie is a native of Archaeos and knows more.
“Hmm” Sylvie began to think of Divinus' layout.
“How about Zyrin? It’s the closest city with a lot of guilds. “ Sylvie suggested. Back in Razzir, Nox had asked about guilds, but Granir and Ulnir, which were two key cities, had military circumstances which only permitted trade guilds. All countries had similar occurrences.
“It’s your decision, you don’t have to decide because of me. “ Nox moved his gaze onto Sylvie.
“I know, but you were a little disappointed we didn’t have one. Besides, everything is new to me, and I also want to see some! “ Sylvie smiled, staring into Nox’s eyes.
“Then let’s do that. “ Nox expressed, feeling warm inside, before also realizing something. Zyrin was northwest from their current location… exactly what Locke suggested.
‘Looks like I would have gone even without him mentioning it…’ Nox reflected.
“Well, master, how are we going to accomplish this? If I recall correctly, Zyrin is about 15,000 miles northwest of Cliffsong. If we walked, it would require nearly a year of traveling. “ Nyx casually mentioned. The eastern border city of Hyperion was called Cliffsong and held the same significance and situation as Ulnir, which also meant no interesting guilds.
“Good point. “ Nox thought for a moment before extending his right arm as if reaching for something.
Mana beginning to flow out of him, a medium sized ship coated in lightning, with a mast and sails, and wings extending from both sides, all began to form after a few seconds. It had a decently sized cabin with a basic square table, chairs, and three beds. The deck also had a table with chairs, but the table was circular. Overall it looks quite unusual, being blue-white or clear, but it would work for now. A few supplies in their spatial rings should make the ship a bit more comfortable, such as blankets and pillows.
“Wow! “ Sylvie exclaimed whilst gazing at the suddenly materialized ship.
“Ahhh, as expected of master. “ Nyx looked at Nox in admiration.
“BUT, why are there three beds, master!? Remove the other two at once! “ Nyx glared harshly at Nox.
Hearing Nyx, Sylvie’s face turned scarlet. Sleeping in one bed?
“I refuse. We are to be married one day, I know… Nevertheless, the beds are staying. “ Nox replied immediately, expecting her reaction.
“I will not take no for an answer, master! It’s not like we’ll be committing any lascivious acts, so remove them! We will go at it when the time is right.“ Nyx expressed sternly.
‘This damn woman, how is she so shameless? Look at Sylvie, she’s ready to pass out…’ Nox yelled internally.
“Compromise. I’ll keep one for Sylvie, but you better sleep with clothes on this time. “ Nox said seriously, but realized he slipped up.
‘This time?’ Sylvie become shocked before subconsciously getting over most of her shyness and resolutely looking at Nox.
“I don’t need my own bed! “ Sylvie exclaimed.
‘….’ Nox looked at Sylvie, dumbfounded.
“Hahaha, master. It appears you need create a larger bed. “ Nyx laughed loudly in glee, gazing at Sylvie with praise. She clearly didn’t want to be left out.
*sigh*
“Whatever. “ Nox sighed, waving his hand to remove two of the beds and making one of them a lot larger. Assuming that the situation would be awkward, he had created three beds for Sylvie’s sake.
‘It might come as a surprise, Sylvie, but master and I have not consummated our relationship yet… I… just want us to be together. He wants that, as well.’ Nyx sent to Sylvie in an uncharacteristically delicate tone whilst Nox finished the boat.
‘Master is unusual compared to many powerful beings. For over 7,000 years, master stayed faithful to his wife that had passed, instead of finding other women. The day we met you, is the same day master accepted the past and reforged himself anew. I don’t believe you had realized it when I told you on your birthday, but that was also the day master accepted me. You and I are both the same.’ Nyx gazed meaningfully at Sylvie.
‘From having no partner for 7,000 years, to suddenly the both of us… Master might act nonchalantly, but it is still a lot for him, and he is not yet ready for anything further, so there is no need to worry about moving quickly. Besides, as I said, master is unusual. Because of our souls and how we are, we are much, much more special to master than you might assume, so he would almost certainly want to wait until marriage… he did that with his first wife… so boring hehe.’ Nyx audibly giggled, before thinking blissfully to herself ‘I have been yearning for thousands of years to finally gain a body… now I have one. Being like this… It is enough for me.’
Listening to such sincerity coming from Nyx, Sylvie was indeed surprised by everything. How they never went any further and Nyx actually entered a relationship with Nox on the same day as her. She indeed didn’t understand her words previously. Nyx’s understanding of Nox was possibly deeper than even he himself.
Gazing softly at Nox, Sylvie knew his wife died 7,000 years ago, but not that he chose to stay alone during that time. That it took him seven millennia to fully let go. It was almost unheard of. Coming to a realization after all this, Sylvie couldn’t help but look at Nox even more deeply than before, as she began to realize that the unfathomable man she’s strongly connected to, is much more vulnerable than she initially believed.
“Alright. I conjured the entire ship to be extremely light. I think I can use lightning to propel us, and Nyx might be able to use her Darkness to keep us afloat if needed. “ Nox nodded contentedly, ignoring the private conversation Nyx and Sylvie were clearly having.
Depending on your skill and mana, conjured objects could be made to be either light or heavy. Hard or soft. During the last week, Nox became more adept in mana usage.
“Sylvie, you should use this to strengthen your endurance and practice your wind magic. It’s hard work but adjusting your magic to changes in the air should be helpful. “ Nox advised.
Nox was experienced in many things, especially energy use, so he knew that certain conditions and situations could help improve someone significantly, such as when he bathed in the lightning tribulations back on Tian; it helped him greatly understand lightning.
“Oh, excellent idea, master. “ Nyx clapped with a smile.
“Sylvie, such an exercise should help hone your wind, to an extent. When we arrive at Zyrin, you will not be so fresh anymore.“ Nyx encouraged.
“Okay, let’s do it! “ Sylvie said determinately without hesitation. She wanted to become powerful enough to not hinder Nox and Nyx, and especially to become a Grand Sorceress.
Grand Sorceress' were incredibly powerful women with an almost perfect understanding of mana and at least two elements, which both were very difficult tasks. Although only a title, the significance varied between individuals. For Sylvie, it held a lot of meaning.
Observing Sylvie, a faint smile surfaced on Nox’s face. Feeling and seeing her drive, it really made him feel good. When you cared for someone, such emotions were instinctive.
The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
Having only one goal for the past 7,000 years, Nox realized that more and more were beginning to accumulate. That he could and wanted to do much more with his life.
“You can accomplish anything yourself, but as your future husband, allow me to help you achieve your future goals. I want to help you. “ Nox expressed candidly, gazing directly into Sylvie’s emerald green eyes.
Returning Nox’s gaze, Sylvie felt warm.
“I know you want to. That’s why you want me to use my wind and practice. “
“There was no need to ask, I wouldn’t have it any other way. “ Sylvie beamed. There was nothing wrong with help, especially if it was from someone that was very important to you.
“Of course, that means you as well, Nyx. “ Sylvie moved her gaze onto her.
“Ha, I am not qualified enough to share that role. Master is the one truly proficient in energy, therefore he shall help you. We can’t have you remain weak, after all. “ Nyx declined.
“Well… alright. “ Sylvie was at a loss.
Besides a few extraordinary matters, such as Stella and breaking that undead’s oath, Nox and Nyx showed nearly identical power. The only tells that Nox was stronger, is that she calls him ‘master’, mentioned things like kneeling before no one due to him, and when her blocked Death’s Hand sneak attack. Still, how could she be unqualified? But, it was clear Nyx wasn’t being modest and seriously believed it.
‘Exactly how much stronger is Nox?’ Sylvie was slightly curious but didn’t want to ask.
“Fret not, you’ll learn one day. “ Nyx guessed what Sylvie was thinking. Although they’re pretty much family now and also soul-fates, Nyx knew that Nox didn’t want to reveal much. The reason was because this was his new life. But, if some incredible situation occurred, that was when she could find out.
“Hehe, I don’t mind at all. We have plenty of time. “ Sylvie giggled. There was no rush.
“Thanks. “ Nox appreciated Sylvie’s understanding. He didn’t want to hide things from her, but a few matters were significant at the moment.
“Let’s go, it’s been a while since I’ve flown in the sky. I’m sure you’ll both enjoy it.“ Nox gazed at the ship, then the sky, before getting on via a conjured ladder. He could easily jump up, but he felt unusually excited and wanted to accomplish it the normal way.
Nyx hasn’t experienced many things with her physical body, and Sylvie was confined to Granir, so they were both excited as they followed Nox’s lead.
Walking over to the bow of the ship, Nox looked behind him contentedly “Prepare yourselves. I made the boat incredibly light, but our ascent might be rough.”
“Don't worry, master, Sylvie’s body is inherently stronger than humans, remember? “ Nyx smiled.
“Oh, right. Hahaha let’s go! “ Nox laughed loudly, much more excited at the prospect of flying a ship than he initially assumed.
Crossing his arms over his chest, mana began pouring out of him as innumerable balls of lightning began forming underneath the ships two wings. There was something very amusing about controlling a ship while standing in his current position.
“RISE! “ Nox shouted unnecessarily with gleaming eyes as the balls of lightning simultaneously began exploding in a concentrated area under the wings, launching the ship upwards into the air.
The takeoff was a little turbulent, but Sylvie and Nyx stood fine.
“Hehe, Nox seems to be enjoying this. “ Sylvie giggled when witnessing Nox’s actions.
“Indeed…” Nyx replied emotionally, suddenly remembering the days when she silently watched Nox’s life before and after he got married and had Stella. It had been countless years since he enjoyed something as simple as flying, thus Nyx was happy that all these recent events came to pass, completely rejuvenating him. Reviving Stella, accepting and merging the past and present, herself and Sylvie, it all helped continually surface aspects he once lost.
About a minute later, the ship was thousands of meters high in sky as the surrounding forest now appeared very small. In the distance, the group could actually see the ocean and the gateway.
‘What the fuck!?’ Under the tree near the gateway, the man, Ghostclaw, suddenly opened his eyes and focused towards the sky to the west, noticing a small ship very far in the distance.
‘It’s them! That guy? He actually made a flying ship from conjuration and lightning, and even managed to fly using lightning? His control of those elements is incredible… I need to report this later.’ Ghostclaw muttered in shock and admiration. It took a lot of work to have such control in two elements.
“So nice! “ Sylvie exclaimed after Nox adjusted the strength of the lightning balls to be very silent and keep the ship steady, as they began traveling northwest towards Zyrin. She now had an incredible view of the vast blue sky and the endless land below. In the distance, she was in awe at the ocean and gained more determination to become powerful.
Next to Sylvie, Nyx had her eyes closed, taking in the environment. Feeling the wind brush against her and move her hair around, and the sun bathing her in its warm rays, Nyx was incredibly relaxed. These sensations were another thing you needed a body for.
Observing the two, Nox smiled, enjoying their expressions whilst reminiscing.
‘I still remember the first time I soared through the air… I didn’t think I’d feel it so vividly once more. Then there was Stella’s first time… ha, what a sight.’ Nox quietly laughed to himself.
“Okay, let me try using my wind magic now.” Sylvie calmed herself and look towards Nox.
“You can enjoy yourself more, you know. I can handle the flying.” Nox returned her gaze.
“No, I want to practice as much as I can. I can feel the strength of the wind up here, it’s incredible.” Sylvie’s eyes shone with excitement.
“Haha, whatever you want. I’ll keep my lightning active, just in case.” Nox chuckled and ceased his lightning explosions.
As Nox made the ship very light, along with having wings, the ship was now gliding across the sky, as its descent was very slow even without anything to propel and keep it completely afloat.
Watching Sylvie, Nox and Nyx observed her gathering mana and transforming it into wind. Gathering around her arms, Sylvie swept them forward as wind travelled alongside them, moving swiftly past her and directly into the sails.
Causing an abrupt burst of speed which jerked the ship forward, Nox and Nyx were unmoving, but Sylvie staggered backwards, nearly falling.
“Don’t be in a hurry, our ship descends slowly, and Nyx and I are here just in case. Start slow, steadily increasing the power you need until gauging the right amount you want. Wind is one of your affinities. It is ingrained into you. Experiment and follow your instincts, and you’ll quickly understand wind and mana. I’m right here if you need help.” Nox patiently guided Sylvie.
He was new to mana, but the energies of Tian were very similar to those of Archaeos. During his time there, he encountered many different people and beings with all kinds of abilities, and on top of his breakthrough, very few could understand energy better than him.
“Okay.” Sylvie nodded seriously, closing her eyes to feel the wind.
Observing Sylvie, Nox couldn’t help but appreciate the scenery. Unlike Nyx’s seductive figure, Sylvie was far more lithe and dainty. A fitting white robe with black leggings and boots, she was wearing the same mage-like robe as she did when they first met. Her light-blue hair flowing in the wind with those small white horns popping out from the top, it was quite the sight.
“I see how it is, master, you prefer women with smaller breasts. I will do everything in my power to reduce the size of mine!” Nyx expressed vehemently.
“I like both of you equally. Now stop messing around, you’re distracting Sylvie.” Nox glared at Nyx when Sylvie nearly dispersed her mana.
“Hehe, master, distraction is everywhere therefore she must overcome it!” Nyx giggled mischievously.
“Just keep focusing and ignore Nyx.” Nox eyed Sylvie.
“Mmm” Sylvie nodded, regaining her concentration.
----------
About 30 minutes later, Sylvie’s breathing was strained and sweat was gathering on her pale face. Her mana was running low and she was finding it hard to continue. If it was someone with a lower affinity, they would’ve been passed out long ago.
Nearly about to let go, Sylvie suddenly felt a hand on her left shoulder. Turning her head, it was Nox giving her a faint smile. Almost at the same time, Sylvie felt a gentle energy enter her body through her shoulder, as all the depleted mana in her body began to replenish.
“Nox, you… Can replenish my mana? “ Sylvie looked surprised. Being able to replenish someone’s mana was far from simple, as it had to come from a different person and not the environment.
Although everyone’s mana came from the same source, because all life is different in some way, when someone absorbs mana into their body, slight changes occur. Due to those changes, if someone wanted to send their mana into another’s body, they would need to perfectly integrate their own mana with the receivers, or it wouldn’t work. Such a method was incredibly difficult to succeed in.
“I did tell you, Sylvie, master is the one truly proficient in energy use.” Nyx looked at Sylvie proudly, as if she was the one who gave her mana.
“Hehe, I guess so. Thank you.” Sylvie gazed at Nox as her breathing returned to normal and her face regained its color.
“If you need mana, let me know. Stop whenever you want, no need to rush. At our pace, we can make it to Zyrin in about 20 days.” Nox smiled gently at Sylvie. Her drive was definitely something, nearly going on until she collapsed.
“If you can, I want to keep going for a few more hours.” Sylvie gazed seriously at Nox.
“Alright. Don’t worry about my mana, let’s do this every day until we get there. For now, try to seamlessly turn the natural wind around us into a tailwind, and sustain it.” Nox advised before continuing.
“When you move, the air automatically resists against you. Over time, also try to reduce that resistance as much as possible. Use your wind to merge seamlessly with the air, always going with it. One day, you might become so proficient, that you’ll have absolutely no resistance at all. The speed of everything you do would be unimaginable. This is only my own experience on how wind works, so as I said earlier, experiment on your own. Trust your instincts. You have plenty of time, after all.” Nox encouraged.
On Tian, there were people that could blend with the wind and were so fast, they could nearly teleport. Those types were incredibly dangerous. The same should apply here.
Listening to Nox, Sylvie’s eyes shone with excitement. She had heard of many wind users, but barely any have accomplished a complete merger. Those that did were all legends, and Sylvie believed that she could reach that point. Maybe even further.
Seeing Sylvie’s shining green eyes that once more began focusing on her wind, and glancing at Nyx next to him, Nox nodded contentedly ‘Two exceptional woman…’
----------
A cold moonlight shining down upon a plain, a large ball of darkness was situated in the center. Far from the ball, various animals and beasts were warily keeping their distance, able to sense the danger if they drew near.
Inside that ball of darkness, was of course the ship Nox created. Looking from the outside, a light casting many shadows was inside the cabin.
“Put your damn clothes back on! “ an irritated voice erupted from within the cabin.
“NO! Sylvie doesn’t mind! Isn’t that right?” inside the cabin, Nyx was latched onto Nox’s right side like a magnet, causing him to struggle in place.
“I-I-I…” Sylvie didn’t know what to say. She resolved to share the bed, but Nyx was so open!
Gazing at Nyx’s naked body, when she focused on Nyx’s breasts, she couldn’t help but look down at her own, beginning to feel that she was lackluster.
“Look at what you’re doing. “ Nox panicked for a moment when he saw Sylvie’s action.
“Don’t compare yourself to this crazy woman, your body is perfect in my eyes.” Nox quickly spoke to Sylvie, but he was being serious. Their connection went further than the physical, but he’d be lying if he said her body wasn’t appealing. This also applies to Nyx. He was acting like this now, but that was because Sylvie was with them.
“Mmm” Sylvie nodded with a shy smile as she laid down on Nox’s left, moving next to him, although not grabbing him like Nyx.
“There, Sylvie is fine. I will forgive your previous comment about me, master, now stop struggling and let me sleep. Goodnight.” Nyx beamed, snuggling in closer and closing her eyes. She was quick.
‘Let YOU sleep?’ Nox looked helplessly at the cabins ceiling.
Turning his head to the left, Nox was met with Sylvie’s green eyes staring directly at him. Gazing intently at her, Nox moved his free left arm and ran his hand through Sylvie’s soft light-blue hair and gently touched one of her small white horns. Instead of becoming shyer, she calmed down and appeared at ease.
“Cute haha. I should have touched them sooner.” Nox chuckled lightly and removed his hand from her head.
“Goodnight” Nox smiled lightly and closed his eyes.
“Goodnight” Sylvie whispered back, as she moved closer to Nox and wrapped her arms around his, closing her eyes with a content smile.
They could actually go long periods of time without sleep, but it was a type of habit and ‘tradition’. It was also nice.
‘This new life of mine… I can’t say it’s bad. Stella should have a nice reaction when we meet again.’ Nox thought happily before a realization hit him and he opened his eyes wide.
‘Wait… what if she has a man… or multiple? What will I do? What if her man has multiple woman?’
‘No. If she is fated to have more than one man, so be it, but if her husband has a woman other than Stella… ‘ Nox thought as his eyes turned sharp with a resolution to kill. It might be hypocrisy with his situation involving Sylvie and Nyx, but his daughter will not be married to a man with multiple wives! If it comes down to it, he’ll even sever her soul-fate if he must!
Putting these thoughts to the back of his mind and calming down, Nox closed his eyes once more, falling asleep shortly afterwards.
11 days passed by in the blink of an eye as the trio was much closer to Zyrin than before. Over these last 11 days, they had assumed the schedule of waking up early, eating breakfast, watching Sylvie practice wind magic, lunch, wind magic again, dinner, and finally going to sleep. They didn’t have to eat much, but it was a needed break and something enjoyable to do.
The only stops they made were to sleep, as they agreed to go to Zyrin before truly exploring Divinus. This was because Nox wanted to accomplish that guild quest the Gifting System gave him, and then move on with everything else. Besides, 3 weeks of time was absolutely nothing.
Other than that, the three had gradually become closer, talking about many subjects, all the while sleeping together became much easier and comfortable.
On the 11th day during the evening, Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie were near the cabin looking for a decent spot to land for dinner and rest.
“You progressed a lot, Sylvie. We’ll probably arrive in Zyrin within the week.” Nox praised, patting Sylvie’s head and touching one of her small white horns. Her horns felt surprisingly nice.
“Mmm, thanks to you.” Sylvie beamed, enjoying Nox's affection.
“Although master has provided guidance and mana, hard work is the core of your growth.” Nyx expressed sincerely. Sylvie's drive was very impressive.
“Nyx is righ-“ Nox spoke before cutting himself off, swiftly moving to the ships bow.
Below them was a mountainous area with large trees and villages scattered about. In the distance far ahead of the ship, a large circular village had a sea of fire flanking its entire right side. On the southern side, countless trees were collapsed and destroyed as figures appeared to be passing over them.
Enhancing his eyes with mana and zooming in on the village, a massive red lizard-like beast was in the center of the fire. In front of it, a large part of the villages wooden wall was collapsed and on fire, as multiple black armored people were attacking the beast with weapons and magic. On the ground were several completely charred figures along with molten iron and steel, clearly from their weapons and armor being met with intense heat.
‘A Lesser Blaze Salamander? What is it doing here?’ Nox identified it quickly after he read about different beasts during his stay at the Ragnarr’s. Lesser Blaze Salamanders were powerful beasts that normally stayed near hot and rocky areas. For one to be attacking a village in a forest, it was ridiculous.
On the south side where the trees were felled, Nox was surprised by what he saw. Large, bulky humanoid figures covered sparsely in armor, along with a few thinner versions of them which were fully armored. They all varied slightly in color, between grey, brownish or light green, and all had varying weapons.
‘Orcs, huh? There must be at least 200. They even have a few Champions amongst them.’ Nox looked at the group of Orcs in surprise. Contrary to what some might believe, Orcs normally kept to their own territories unless provoked. To have such an amount gathered together for battle, from what Nox had read, was extremely rare.
At the very front of that army of Orcs, another small band of black armored men and women were defending a collapsed wall from the Orcs. Far past the wall near the village square, a multitude of people, men and women, young and old, were gathered together whilst most trembled in fear and trepidation.
‘It really is the same in this world… So much disparity and risks for the weak.’ Nox lamented, experiencing such a scene countless times. Throughout their entire journey thus far, they hadn’t encountered any similar situations.
“What’s going on?” Sylvie sprinted next to Nox, following his line of sight and witnessing a large column of smoke spreading through the air.
“A village far ahead is being sieged by a small army of Orcs and one Lesser Blaze Salamander…” Nox didn’t move his gaze from the village.
“WHAT!? Orcs AND a Lesser Blaze Salamander? How? There’s no way those two would attack at the same time. The Salamander is antagonistic towards nearly all life.” Sylvie looked at the smoke far ahead in disbelief.
“It shouldn’t be a coincidence…” Nox thoughtfully said, as he viewed the south side, noticing a teenager in black armor a small distance behind the defenders, as well as a little girl less than 10 years old trembling next to him. Focusing on them, he felt they were unordinary, especially the little girl.
“Master, you are going down?” Nyx came next to him and inquired, already expecting what his reply would be. She had noticed the situation but couldn’t see as good as Nox.
“Hmm… That’s right. I’m going to interfere.” Nox asserted.
“Hehe, it’s been many years since the last time you did such a thing…” Nyx giggled.
“If I recall correctly, master, the last time was before the incident.”
“You sure were watching me for a while… But yes, it was. It’s been too long… I am aware of reality and life. No one can help the entire world, but I can at least influence those I come across… This can be considered fate, so I might as well go along with it. Besides… I was once in their position….” Nox nodded in affirmation.
“Take me with you!” Sylvie interjected from the side.
“I was planning to. You might be my future wife, but I’m not that soft. I know that you need different experiences, no matter the severity… Especially because you’re with me now. Peace doesn’t exactly follow me.” Nox readily agreed but gained a wry smile at the end. Sylvie might be a hundred and was fine seeing what he and Nyx did during her banquet, but she didn’t truly experience that firsthand. This time was different.
Hearing Nox, a serious look flashed across her eyes.
“I’ll use my lightning and quickly bring the ship to the village. Nyx, coat it in darkness to reduce visibility. Once we get near, keep the ship surrounded so it can stay afloat, then we’ll head down.” Nox motioned swiftly as lightning began to explode from behind the ship, propelling them forward. Although abrupt, Sylvie stood perfectly still, as she was now used to it.
Almost at the same time, darkness poured out of Nyx and surrounded the ship save the back where Nox’s lightning was used for propulsion.
Speeding towards the sky above the village, the trio prepared to disembark and plant themselves in the middle of their battle.