Hey everyone. Sorry it took a while to post this chapter. I actually had to delete a scene I'll be probably posting in next chapter. Expect the pacing to start to change and remember this chapter like the last one has  a lot of world building. And the dialogue might have hurt some with all that information but this chapter a lot more happens so don't worry. It's over  60K and whenever it'll be in book form each scene will probably be a chapter to itself.

A lot of readers curious about Vali being so cautious might be brought out to reasons why in this chapter. He doesn't see himself as some Legendary figure or main character in some fairy tale. He sees himself as some guy who was good at a game and got himself dragged into a foreign world trying to find his loved ones. It's already revealed that the intense loneliness he felt and tragic past severely effected his state of mind.

He doesn't tick like most people do. This isn't a story just if anyone came to this world and how they would handle each event . This is a story of what would happen if this broken man came to this world. He's constantly being effected by his tragic past, the influencing darkness, the stigma he's constantly feeling  becoming a monster. The more he changes into one the more he feels he won't ever be able to reunite with those he's lost.....So keep that in mind. He's cautious for a reason. Doesn't want to end up like the elf race.  He sees the only reason they beat Balor was through preparation so that is what he is doing now.

Thank you so much to Corey and Jujhar! Your donations were honestly amazing and I couldn't help but want to write more just to thank you so much for loving this story.

Don't forget to leave a new comment and donate. I'll try to update the description page with some new stuff and slight spoilers here and there. And get ready for a wild ride that is shortly to come.....

Enjoy.....

Book 2; Chapter 2: A New Kind of Dark Lord

Atramentous Nebula                     (Passive)

Nebula Core Amount: 1

Nebula Core Capacity: 0%

Absorb the cosmic rays and radiation which extends past the vastness of space and time from the Atramentous Nebula. Grant your Dark powers the properties and characteristics that lie dormant from galaxies far, far away.

It took quite a while to figure out just what sort of skill I was looking at. When my intellect and wisdom rises I almost feel the descriptions of certain skills even change but to more complex and stronger skills, primarily those from this place, my initial understandings over the newly learned abilities aren't nearly as profound. It clearly came from whatever that being was that talked to me. I've been mulling it over in my head just exactly what it does but it must be important. Whether that Being said 'a little something' or not just the sounds of this ability seem interesting.  

'The name practically  translates to Black World....Yeah, after a long talk with the voice of darkness there's no way this skill would be dangerous...Not! Just what did that freaky non existing thing put in my body?'

It shows a small empty meter that resembles my Mana and Stamina bar now. It however is still completely empty and I don't have any idea how to get it to work either.

That along with all of the other skills I've received so far are simply too much to process at the moment without experimenting a little. My mind keeps reeling in new and interesting ways to use and experiment with my current abilities I can't even wait to try out the new ones. I simply don't need to worry about acquiring new skills for right now but should be  mastering a small amount that I already have, then the effects for each will grow exponentially. 'There's just not enough time in a day....Maybe if I can start practicing my spatial magic in the way Loki uses to manipulate time dilation....Hmm that is probably a lot more difficult than he let's on.'

'My time needs to be focused on mastery not new techniques and skills for right now....This universe is big and the secrets just keep growing.....'

Like Bruce Lee once said 'Fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once. I fear the man who has practiced 1 kick 10,000 times.' That rule definitely applies to this world also. A person at a lower level but a much higher skill mastery can easily cover the gap a lot easier. It was the same way in the game. If  your level rose  too high too quickly it could also have some inverse effects to training mastery speeds and better stat gains per level. ‘While that rule may not apply as much to me with all of Loki’s influence, Blessed Being’s growth corrections and my bloodline. My stats already compare to the expert beast like warriors here so I need to more  focus on strict battle training and studying my magic for the time being. ‘

So after  leaving this dungeon I may find myself slowing down quite a bit in gains. But  what I should acquire is far more valuable than trying to kill myself to obtaining  whatever rare abilities on the top floors.

After choosing the Dark Lord class I honestly felt countless memories of Kaylan and Hayden run rampant in my mind even while thinking about something as random as these new skills.

'...Everything I've done. Everything that's happened to me.....I've already made the resolve to push it deep down. Everything I do is to find and save Kaylan. If I'm able to give her a chance at a good life I will do anything. It's my responsibility…The things that I've done and might do to achieve such things not even I know of what I'm capable of yet....'

….To those who fight with monsters, see that you yourself don't become one. For those who stare long into the abyss, know that the abyss gazes back at you....

These words simply echoed deep within my mind after every passing memory. Every passing thought. They hold such more meaning whenever you devour monsters and become even more like them... I became a Dark Lord in another world hehe. I named Abgrund properly, but I can't blame any of this on him. Even if his power is practically intoxicating II made my choices. And I won't ever look back.

If I was given the same decisions again I would do them all the same. If becoming a monster keeps my family safe. Helps me keep Kaylan safe.....Even when it is our time to part.....permanently. I'll have no regrets in this life.

'Besides.....'

After looking towards all the pixies frolicking around and constantly trying to pet Fenrir as well as some of the others I've stayed close to since my time coming here. My mother who also hasn't left my side at all....

'....It's not so bad.'

Pek, Izzie and Clara all went back to analyzing a lot of Balor's remains and extracting what materials they could while a few of us remained in a corner while they were all waiting on me.  

Tanin, Cari, Freyki and several of the pixies that got the Fire Elemental's flame crystal, are standing in a circle around everyone and providing a steady source of heat.

After talking with Pek I let him know about the details Hjökk had spoke of  Balor's horn and tried to see if he could possibly make a dagger or even a few swords with it but he seemed troubled by my request. While most of his race is currently working on making Fomorian fur coats and blankets, while creating some custom made weapons for the Annunakes this was the one thing Pek seemed troubled about.

Apparently he isn't a sword smith and  while he can possibly create an item or even a dagger it would be a waste of such a good material he says. He doesn't have a high enough Blacksmithing mastery to provide something of value for me as creating swords is something completely different than tools. That's when the large white wolf who sort of resembles Adimar but much leaner approached.

"Ah Alpha! If it is a weapon you require then allow me to possibly assist. I myself am a Blade Smith." - Alderon

To these words I was actually quite surprised but then thought how normal that probably is. This is a warrior tribe and culture. Everything they do and breathe is battle and I wouldn't doubt that huge sword lying on his back at all times was probably even made by him.  

"I'm not against it to see what you can do...Did you make that sword you're always carrying around?"

"Ah! Yes Alpha. Here please inspect my discipline. My workmanship..." - Alderon

In and easy and quick motion he hoisted the large weapon from behind his toweringly tall back and lightly tapped the tip of the blade into the dirt causing a light tremor around my feet.

It was a bright silver color with a large black handle. This large slab of metal had a fat middle but as the massive slab of steel got to its edges became increasingly thin and to a sharped point.

He mentioned his Black Smithing Mastery was in the high Novice stages which must mean he's made an untold number of swords. 'The production type classes were always insane trying to level. I'm only Advanced in cooking due to the sheer number of dishes I've created along with doubling the experience and creating a ‘unique’ skill. .

The Crafting classes are all quite difficult to raise and isn't as simply as killing monsters or practicing your technique against an opponent every day and becoming enlightened in that way.

The great sword looked to be  perfectly balanced to the tip of the blade. I put my hand on the large handle and attempted to hoist it off the ground but was met with a considerable amount of weight.  

'...Hoh.....what? How heavy is this thing?'

"While it is perfectly balanced...The weight is roughly close to that of half a full grown Smog Dragon, Alpha...." - Alderon

'Geezes.....this thing really is heavy... And you're saying you can lift this up with one arm?'

Trying to use one hand is impossible for me and it almost fell over so I had to quickly apply the strength of both my arms to grab onto the sword.

Even then....'Ah...this is fucking heavy.'

I tried to lift it off the ground but to no avail it felt like it weighed like a City Wall. I could hardly even get it off the ground.

I activated Demonic Awakening and then felt a surge of energy rush through my veins and slowly began to pick up the large slab of metal and hoist it up into the air.

Even with two hands this thing is monstrously heavy. Forget trying to block it, getting hit with something like this would simply be asking for death. If I didn't have the bones or abilities I did even with my defense this large slab of metal, swung at me at such speeds would potentially obliterate me.  

'How in the world does this Alderon character hold this with one arm so effortlessly?'

I simply grinned and cautiously handed it back to Alderon who smiled.

"It's quite the sword. I'm impressed even more of you now for welding such a weapon so effortlessly."  

"Tis nothing my Alpha. One does not simply need strength to wield such a weapon. To  be able to wield it as if it were as light as a feather one needs absolute discipline." - Alderon

"I don't doubt that. Hopefully you can teach me sometime."  

"Hehe...I would be honored my Alpha. The key to learning a large sword like mine isn't as difficult as it would seem especially for one who has the resolve to stand against a foe as unstoppable as Balor hah..." - Alderon

The large wolf man nodded to me and then just recalled something that he just said...The 'key' to learning.....

I remembered in Balor's final moments he hadn't spoken of revenge or mercy....He simply gave me something and asked me to....Kill them.

I pulled out the large key from my item list and held it in my hand. It was too big to just be some normal key and must open something extremely important. 'Why Balor would give this to me in his final moments I haven't any idea....'

It looks like an ordinary key but the top of it has a large black stone carved into it with a slight purple glow inside of it.  

While I continued to observe the odd key in my hands, my mother, Sting and all the others continued to stand next to Tanin and a few of the fire pixies. Right when I decided it was time to go I then saw a figure appear and was walking past all the workers extracting materials and headed towards us.  

'Wait...she's here?'

GrrrRrRrrrrrrrrr

Several of the Annunakes around me including Alderon, Akino and even Za Za and Grayfia.

"Down doggies....I simply came to see what all the fuss earlier was about. Thought I heard the screaming of some maiden being eating alive or something...." - Alysteir

Each of the Annunakes and even some of the Pixies started to look immediately angered by the Neko's presence but it seemed odd for some reason.  

".....Perhaps you should go. Feelings are still a little sour for earlier. " - Adimar

"Oh, are each of you still complaining about that? So I kicked your precious Elkia who were coming out of their unconscious states. You should all thank me.... " - Alysteir

"Their protection is our responsibility." - Alderon

"Don't you forget what we said neko. If you ever lay your hands on them again..." - Grayfia

"Or what doggies? You'll come drool on me too." - Alysteir

"…......" - Annunakes

I questioned Adimar who was next to me and apparently earlier while they were taking the Elkia and Pixies we recovered to the Arachnee prison, one of the Pixies and two of the Elkia had awoken and started to go rampant.  

Kai who was also there explained it was incredibly worrisome as the male Pixie who had awoken started revealing a terrifying power creating a small purple and orange ball in his hands that looked like it had the brightness and heat of a star.

The two Elkia who tried to flee and attack were immediately kicked in the back of their heads by Alysteir. While the Arachnee and Pixies were able to puncture the three with more poison to finally drop them down.

The Annunakes are simply mad due to the treatment that was used toward the Elkia that they have finally seen for the first time in a long years.

...However, what Alysteir did in this particular situation....It's not unjustified.

"Ah so the human was simply taste testing with his interesting abilities it seems.....Anything good ? " - Alysteir

As the blue haired neko started to slowly approach me I simply shrugged and was met with her grin.

"Oh, don't worry I'm not here to take you up on that offer of mine just yet. I was simply nearby when I heard a loud noise...." - Alysteir

"So General Alystier has decided to stop by. It's always a pleasure to stand in the presence of the Number 1. I heard of Commander Ackerman being promoted to the Eis Neko's Race leader. Is General Alysteir planning on staying and fighting under his command after our parting with this place? " - Malfius

To Malfius's words Alysteir simply peered towards him and back at me while shrugging her shoulders as well.

To that no one said anything for a short while and the blue haired nekos eyes ventured around the ice cave and smiled. It got awkwardly quiet and all that could be heard were the workers not far away from us.

"Well....I suppose I'll take my leave then. " - Alysteir

"Wait...Umm...Vali!" - Bifrost

Just then the black pixie whom I've only heard speak once had slowly walked up towards me while glancing at Alysteir.

"Bifrost?...What is it?" - Cari

"....I just wanted....To speak to Vali about something Cari." - Bifrost

As she walked closer next to me my mother perked up and seemed interested in over what was occurring. I too was curious as I've hardly ever heard this one speak since we saved her.

"Vali I...I think with such a joyous day that you have brought us I just....Well I was hoping that we could move on from such past...transgressions. Even I know how much hate can....Do to someone. I don't want it to hurt you Vali....I just was hoping we could put aside our past histories and open doors for a better future....You've....sob...you've just been..So...nice...to us...I....I mean we..." - Bifrost

The small black pixie who then stood close to me started having some tears streaming out from her black eyes making Sting and my mother seem to be confused over what was happening.

Everyone else too seemed quite clueless to what this once white pixie was trying to say.

Cari and Cyanin both walked over to her and placed their arms around their older sister who couldn't seem to say the words she had wanted to.

"Our family has even grown now since you've became a part of us. I'm just so thankful for you ...I don't ever wish for you to be pained over things like hate. I just. I know what this place can do to those trapped in here....Vali, if you could ….find it in your heart to forgive all of those in this place for whatever may have happened in the past....I beg you to consider it." - Bifrost

Even Hjökk seemed confused on my shoulder as to this little one's words. Even after everything she's been through it almost feels like she is speaking up for this neko.

Why else would she have chosen now of all times to say this?  

[Sister Bryn always said the Bifrost Pixies while also holding the most wisdom were always the kindest as well....This one's emotions seem genuine.]

Hjökk whispered telepathically and spoke as if there shouldn't be any concern in this being suspicious in the slightest. I was always troubled how this Black pixie did not become 'cured' when I used Freya's Soul Recovery on her with even something like the Tears of a Titan being used. I honestly suspected for a short time she could have been a puppet in disguise but now I simply think she just chose not to speak as much before because she seems to think on her words quite carefully.

'Yah...They do seem to be the wiser ones. Amazing how after such things she of all people would say such things.....Hmmm'

It was hard to find the words to say as everyone around me remained silent. Even Alysteir silently stared towards Bifrost with a look of curiosity.

"....Perhaps the words from the wise White Pixie's should be considered. I agree to such things. If we are going to survive, like Locke said. We need to stand together from now on. " - Malfius

“Ah!....I guess when working together we are all quite formidable aren't we? " - Ollie

Some of the others started to murmur while I as well as Alysteir still didn't have any words for the other.

Even now the idea of her remaining free and not in chains freaks the hell out of me. Something as dangerous and unhinged as that person is something that haunts me. After what she did to me....I'm surprised I can even feel anything after what she did!

Even thinking about it now I can feel an intense anger building inside of me almost attacking my mind.

.....you can't allow her to remain......She is simply...... too...  angerous.....

'....She's....very dangerous....But....at the same time.....Well she is unstable.....Maybe I should….'

"And Vali....While there are a lot of crimes that Alysteir has never received punishment for during her command under Malaka and should. But I believe we should also consider all that she has done for us and take that into consideration...She even....She even saved your life today and I just...I'm forever grateful to her for risking her life for my family...sob....sob..." - Bifrost

Bifrost then started to really start to cry and Cari and Cyain kept consoling her while looking up towards me and Alysteir curiously.

After this I even heard a few of the Annunakes seem shocked while Malfius and Ollie both just nodded.

According to them whenever I exploded out of Balor's chest regardless if it wasn't as strong or as powerful as the Pixie's flames I was able to free myself from within him. My affinity wasn't near any of the Pixie's to produce a powerful enough flame but my mana helped it last just long enough for me to escape somehow. After that, the one who actually pulled me to safety and that odd feeling of traveling at warp speed.....That was....her?

I assumed it was Hjökk or...I just didn't assume that had happened. I also remember now while Balor was subdued by Gleipnir she actually saved me from Balor trying to crush me with his horns....According to Hjökk.....To even a God back in ancient times  was something fatal. Perhaps I would have died too...

While I was looking towards Alysteir she simply shrugged similarly to how I did only a few moments ago.

"....I guess that whatever crimes you committed is something you'll have to atone for through them....As far as our past issues are concerned...For now I guess, playing nice isn't so bad."  

To my words some of the Annunakes made peculiar faces but Bifrost seemed to brighten up immediately.  

"...Thank you...Vali...sob...thank you so much sob...sob......" - Bifrost

The small black pixie then came up to me no different than Cosmia and her little sister do and wrapped her small arms around me trying to stop herself from crying. This is in all honesty the most emotion I've seen her ever show and even Kai and Cari are both perplexed by it.

They are even smiling about it which is odd.

Just then Cyanin, Cari and Kai both ran up to me and hugged me and Elyria trying to pull us closer together. Vale, Uri and Jana too came up and also joined in on the family embracing their race does quite often.

"Mmm.....Vali thanks for letting us come with you. We...we just love you so much. Oh wait! I have a present for you wait right here! Don't finish the hug without your sister!" - Cari

Cari's last words caused my ears to twitch but the small white Pixie flew off and the other three Pixies continued to hug me as I could see Uri and Jana follow behind her.

"Sob...sob....Why am I crying now? " - Cyanin

Each of the pixies continued to speak and I looked up towards Alysteir and contemplated the small pixie's words. Her selfless thoughts honestly spoke to me and perhaps I have been a bit misguided in my anger.

I can never forget what Alysteir did to me and there will always be a sense of rage when thinking of this neko but at the same time, how were her actions any different than those I have already chosen to forgive. Just because she was the one who held the knife didn't mean her actions were in some way worse than the others who sat and watched.....

'In all honesty I wish this entire situation didn't have to happen to cause us all such friction. I wanted to trust these races but even now it's hard. But the words of Bifrost honestly got me thinking and spoke quite a lot to me....She was in captivity the longest...I don't even dare think of all of the things that must have happened to her and her siblings. But even after such times she shows to care quite a bit for others...'

"..Ah...Alysteir. Come here for a moment." - Bifrost

To this action the neko woman scoffed and yet weirdly enough started approaching towards our group hug... Is Bifrost actually?

"I'm not gonna join in on the 'cry sesh' so don't bother. But I was going to do this....While I suppose our little duel will have to wait for another day Hero boy. I guess I can play nice for a little while too. Is this how you show an agreement in your culture human?" - Alysteir

Alysteir extended her long slender arm outward and reached it towards me. While some of the Annunakes made bitter faces they didn't voice any complaints towards whatever action I might take. It's insane how obedient and respectful they are towards one who holds the Alpha position and go along with whatever my decisions is, with practically no contest whatsoever.

I raised my hand out to shake Alysteir's and this was probably a sight that neither of us had ever seen happening at all. While I think this neko is scary I can't deny myself I would rather have this friend as an ally than an enemy. In such a society torturing someone isn't even uncommon for those in my world when trying to obtain information.

As evil as I think this person to be....How can I be someone to judge such a person's actions she made in this place.  

As my hand firmly gripped onto hers she gave a strong grip and gently shook her arms in a weird way.

'What? These species in here really don't know what a handshake is.....Wa..huh?!!!!'

WHHHOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMM!MM!!!!!!M!M!M!M!M!M!MM!MM!M!!

[What! What's happening right now! The space were standing in is distorting!]

A dark mist emerged out from underneath where we were standing and stretched out towards our entire surroundings.

"Ah what's happening?" - Kai

"What? What is this black cloud? " - Tanin

"Brace yourselves!" - Adimar

"Is something attacking?" - Malfius

"I'm SORRY! I didn't mean to touch that!" - Cyanin

"WHAT?!!!" - Everyone

All I could hear was constant chatter before everything around us changed completely.

-------------------------------------------------------------------  

When the dark myst that surrounded us vanished we had all then realized everything around us had changed.

We weren't standing in the same location we were just in.  

What was once a pale bluish white color of the ice walls covered the ceiling and floor we were now standing in a very large dark room.

While there is a dim light coming in from some small openings overhead I can see we are standing in an incredibly large....hall?

The floors are black and have odd designs covering them along with dozens of incredibly large pillars that extend all the way to the towering ceilings.  

Everything looks to be carved with an intricate and lovely design it almost looks similar to a...throne room.

'That looks sort of like a...chair?'

The light coming from overhead also showed a large black stone chair like object that was elevated much higher than the floor we were standing on and even floated off the ground.

"Where....Where are we? " - Kai

"Status!" - Malfius

"Ugh...It doesn't say a Floor....Could.... we be outside the dungeon right now?" - Akino

"Nnnnn...." - Alysteir

I looked around and those around me were the same as those who were standing closest to me when that black smoke appeared.

Bifrost, Kai, Tanin, Cyanin and Vale of the Pixie Race along with Adimar, Akino and Alderon from the Annunakes.

There was also my mother, Sting, Hjökk along with Malfius, Ollie, Alysteir and even Alec had also been transported alongside side us.

Alysteir nimbly started jumping up and down oddly and made a frown while speaking as if to herself...

"Nnn....The gravity is rather strange here....." - Alysteir

'The gravity is strange?....Just where are we? I can't see a Floor Title. Wait Cyanin!'

"Cyanin what did you touch?"  

To my words everyone who was scanning the surroundings then turned to look at the small turquoise girl holding my pant leg.  

"Ah umm...Well...The shiny key thing in your hand it...Ah sorry I didn't know something would happen if I touched it. " - Cyanin

Everyone then looked down towards the large key shaped item in my hands and stared at it oddly.

"It's a warp key." - Kai

"So that's what it was." - Alderon

"Hmmm....."

As I started to look around the key shape I tried to touch the large black stone and was met with this.

Balor's Key of the Damned

Cool Down Time: 30 Minutes

The key didn't give me much of a description at all but I find it odd a being like Balor would shape something like a 'warp key' which could look similar to something like a bracelet on his wrist.  

'Something like him wouldn't just shape an object like this peculiar shaped key for no reason....There's got to be something else this key can do. Balor handed it to me in his final breaths....Perhaps there is something here he wants me to find?'

"Hmm....It says the cool down time is at 30 minutes. Does anyone else's warp key's work?"  

To my words a few of the leaders including Akino and Alderon both shook their heads no.  

[This is strange Vali. I can't ascertain where we are. These walls are warded with something strange. I can't see anything past this room. But....the gravity here is much less than normal....At least 20% less actually... The warding on this place is from multiple different kinds of magical systems....The one's on the floor in front of us I think are Demonic symbols to be honest.....The one's on that pillar are Nordic...Hindu....Aos Sí of the Fairies....I don't even know that one....Vali this place is like a steel trap nothing get's out or in without that warp key..... ]

'Shit.....Just where are we?'

"Where are we exactly?" - Kai

"Ah...Um.....I think I know." - Bifrost

When all of us looked down towards the small black pixies she continued to look towards her feet where strange glyphs and designs carved below them.

"I think we're really, really high up right now. I can....feel just the edge of my sister's aura....Very, very far down." - Bifrost

"…......" - Kai

"Hmm....Could we be on the top Floor?" - Malfius

"Wouldn't there be a display telling us that....Look at that throne over there....Maybe that warp key took us to where Balor lives.... We're probably higher than the top Floor. Past the dungeon boundary?" - Adimar

To Adimar's words everyone grew silent and I started to contemplate the accuracy of his words.

'I remember Balor screaming something...about a 'Black Palace'....He said....Oh no...He said he left his beasts to guard the 'Black Palace'.'

As this realization occurred to me my eyes started to twitch.

"Ok if everyone's warp key's don't work...Then we just have to wait till this one cool's down. I say we explore this place some but be on high alert right now....I think I know where we are and Balor called it his Black Palace.....He also said he left some very dangerous creatures to protect it...He.....he implied he left the majority of his forces guarding this place so....We shouldn’t make too much noise."  

To my words everyone's eyes grew large realizing at the moment we are in fact still behind enemy lines and are by no means in a safe location. We cannot simply walk around aimlessly.

"What? Are you saying that entire army horde that was slaughtered? That was just the first course?" - Alderon

"…..When everyone was passed out after Balor opened up his third eye...When I awoke first I heard him mention it....It's highly possible we haven't even seen the extent of Balor's dangerous schemes yet. If he was able to subdue even Malthiel then we need to be extremely cautious. Who knows what sort of things he kept behind in case someone were to lead an attack against him..."

"Hmm, Vali's right. Balor believed he was soon to take over the entire world with his creations that were housed here...He was far too intelligent to think he could do such a task that was toppled so easily by his own captives...." - Kai

To each of our words everyone slowly nodded and decided while we were stuck in this mysterious Black Palace we should at least explore it some to find out some of Balor's secrets. Who knows maybe the person who created something like the Midnight Gauntlet or even experiment on Abgrund, has even more secret weapons just lying up here.

I can't imagine how high up we are right now but according to Hjökk, Jheroki Mountains extend so high that some peaks go past the very atmosphere and into space.

'Well...Let's be glad I don't have a horrible fear of heights or that would be pretty nerve racking to hear.'

My mother came up and wrapped her arms around mine as we all continued forward. Her ears brushed against the side of my face and she looked up towards me.

"What? I've just got you back and I don't want you doing anything too dangerous. I won't hear anything about it." - Elyria

I had no rebuttal and we each continued forward.

Adimar, Akino and Alderon each stood around us which caused Cyanin to make an odd face.

She then darted towards me and sat her bottom on my opposite shoulder of Hjökk.

"Hmph.....There. Now that I'm here let's continue. Bifrost come sit on Elyria's shoulders too! " - Cyanin

Bifrost then made an odd face towards her sister in which Cyanin put her hands on her hips and spoke up again.

"Come on Bifrost. We can keep our family safe while getting to be right next to them!" - Cyanin

Bifrost then smirked and casually flew over to my mother who only continued to stare towards the small black pixie curiously.

The dark light coming off of her was just as warm as her younger sisters and she bent her large crystalline wings around the back of my mother's head.

"Hmph...there now you're protected. Let's go Vali." - Cyanin

"Hmph does this one believe the protection of the Alpha and his family aren't with us here?" - Akino

"Pft...With me and Bifrost here it's even better than having even the toughest shields made of the finest steel....Besides they're our family and we can protect them." - Cyanin

"Yah we called dibs..." - Tanin

"You what?" - Adimar

"Dibs...Means we can handle it." - Tanin

"….." - Akino

This last word then caused me stop our walking and look towards the arguing pixies....

"You guys have the concept of dibs in this place?"

"Pft what do you take us for brother Vali? Someone who's lived their whole lives in a cave or what?" - Cyanin

To her words I practically tripped over....

"...Yes....yes that is what I thought...."  

To my words Cyanin simply stuck out her tongue at me and Alderon and Akino simply didn't have any words to say at all seeming to just give up trying to argue with them.

Bifrost who was on my mother's shoulder then stuck her hands in her lap and started to create a small flame as well. Kai, Vale, Tanin and the other two pixies then started to create a ball of fire in their hands to make it easier for everyone to see. My mother however couldn't stop staring at each of them simply perplexed by each of them.

"I'll lead the way. Cyanin can you put you're shields around me please..." - Tanin

"Ok here ya go....!" - Cyanin

As we continued to walk through the large dark room she didn't even stare at her surroundings near as much as each of the pixies.  

"I must say my son...These little pixies truly are bizarre...Their magic comprehension is simply astonishing. They're practically made of magic, I've never seen anything like them before." - Elyria

"They are pretty interesting aren't they...."

"Hey...Are you talking about us? You know it's not nice to have secrets." - Cyanin

"Hah! Bizarre you say? If that's what you wish to call it." - Sting

My mother and Sting both couldn't stop filling me in on their observations of the Pixie Race. I admit they don't use magic like any of the other races either. It's strange but Hjökk says they work on a completely different system than humans when using magic simply from being made from magic itself. However, after I set the Age of Death skill they were able to enter it just fine even if they weren't able to use magic....

They don't need to learn magical spells that help them manipulate the laws around them they can simply create their own law at random by  producing a fire as they understand it's properties to such an incredible extent already.  

I still don't quite understand it but magic is by far the hardest aspect of this world I haven't been able to comprehend since coming here. Magic isn't just activating a skill light I've been doing. Since this world is so much similar to Loki's game I forget sometimes but this isn't essentially what magic is and I now I feel I really need to learn just how to master it.

I just understand how powerful magic can be that is why I have initial caution over powerful sages in the world. 'I'm just some guy from another world....I'm not some legendary hero, I'm not some master sage who has been studying magic or martial arts for thousands of years either. That's why I feel the heavy need to start studying magic thoroughly to benefit this new Class the right way.'

The fact that I can use monster skills isn't due to my Magic Manipulation but simply because my demonic origins place me on a completely different magical system. Hjökk says Loki is even perplexed by this as he doesn't understand Demonic Magic really at all. Demons aren't friendly to any other race besides their own, it's not strange even Gods wouldn't know much about how they use magic.

Every since my WIS and INT stats grew I can see just how wrong I've been trying to grow since coming here.

If there was a being who could simply counter all of my most powerful skills then where would I be left. I'm strong defensively but if I'm honest, I myself haven't really become stronger as a fighter since coming here. 'Oh I've become more formidable sure but....My confidence coming here has also taken a hit....'

Malfius...Alysteir....Even in my first fight with Adimar he took me to the ground and tore into my arm. After my first fight in this dungeon the races here came up with a way to counter me and fight me to the death if they needed to....These might be extreme cases but I can't be the only person in this world with cheat like abilities. Even without cheat like abilities I've still been defeated before by those who have lived life and death battles every single day of their lives. Even with everything I have if someone like Malfius took the first swing I'd be done.

Even if my skills make me strong if I rely on them in the way that I have and meet with an enemy that can take them all on then I'll be left with only the outcome of death. I've been lucky up till now... With this new Class change I've come to see that now.

If I'm making the decision of not revealing my OP items or powerful abilities to the world then I need to be able to see just how strong I am without them. But I can't stop training with them as well to prepare for what could come. It's as if after picking a new Class my entire thought process can only play out every scenario that may come and right now is the time we need to be preparing for these future scenarios...'Whenever I leave this place.....I will speak to this King Asher and make sure he is someone I can place my trust in.'

It all honesty is based on this one person....

As we continued to walk to the back of the dark room and past the large floating throne it was Ollie who first saw a large door towards the back of the throne room.

As we each slowly ventured towards it everyone continued to remain quiet. Not wanting to alert whoever or whatever could be hiding in this place.

We slowly pushed the door open and felt a sudden force of wind blowing from behind us and toward the now very brightly lit hallway.

Each of us together walked through and could see this large walkway had an open aired ceiling and a few large window like structures with the light from the sun beaming through.

"Ah.....mmm...." - Malfius

"Couhg....nnn the.....air..." - Adimar

Only after a few paces of walking forward each of the Annunakes, Reiki, my mother, Sting and even Alysteir and Alec started holding their throats and slowly dropped to their knees.

I could feel a slight tinge of pain occur in my chest...I could no longer take in any air into my lungs for some reason.....There's no air in here!

I tried to hold my breath but noticed everyone besides me and the Pixies seemed to be having more trouble coping with the lack of oxygen. However, for whatever reason even without air....How are my lungs still working?

I can feel them beating and distorting rapidly but how are they even working with such little oxygen in this place?  

WHoomoOOOOMMMMMmm

A large hum occurred and small purple see through spheres appeared around each and everyone's heads.

Cough...cough....

Within each and every bubble a large gust of blue wind started to flurry and flutter around each of our faces and subside and we were each met with a sudden breath of fresh air.

[This should hold for the time being....This place does appear to be very high up. There isn't much oxygen in the air at all here....]

Hjökk whispered to me on her shoulders and everyone around us started to slowly stand back up again.  

"Whoo...That's better....I suppose that's your pretty purple friend's doing huh? Well...I must say I thank you lovely lady...." - Ollie

"Ahh......That was strange what was that just now?" - Elyria

"Yes it almost felt like the air itself were practically gone within the middle of each breathe....." - Sting

"Apparently were pretty high up....Here let's go have a look at just how high..."  

After I spoke we each slowly walked towards the first large open aired window that extended all the way to the incredibly large ceiling.

Just as we came to the view of the window everyone halted their steps as we now heard the first foreign noise since coming here.

AHhhhhHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhhhh

WHAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

Ahhhh!!!!

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

While faint, each of us heard the screaming wails of tortured souls coming from outside the window.

We each looked out the large open aired window but couldn't see anywhere to the place of the sounds creeping in.

This Black Palace was practically floating on a massive black cloud that is hovering below a large courtyard with a metal framed black gate out in front.

The sky was pale blue but behind it I could practically see nothing but black space and distant stars.

'Just to get to this point we wouldn't even be able to breath.....I'm glad Cyanin hit that button when Hjökk was here....'

There were bright multi colored stars in the distance and even a large orange sun coming from the west but it was as if even being closer to such a bright Sun the light barely intruded on this space at all.

It was as if the light tried to touch everything around this place but could not brighten up the surroundings of the Black Palace at all. The Black Palace practically keeps out all light from entering this place....

Below the clouds I could see what looked like large grass and even large mountains that extended for miles far below the black clouds.

As everyone continued to look outward I noticed each and everyone was looking forward besides three.

One was Hjökk and the others were Malfius and Alysteir who were both peering into the same direction oddly.

I looked up and towards the sky but didn't see a thing.  

[Vali...don't make a sound.]

AhhhhhhHHH!!!!!!!!

AhhhhhhHHHH!H!!!!!!!!!!

The faint screams continued to enter our ears but I couldn't tell to where it was coming from. I motioned for everyone to be quiet and tried to see what it was that was causing the noise.

I used Eclipse view but nothing came up at all. I then remembered I had a new skill and wanted to try it out....I activated Achtung Vis and the pale blue and dark black sky turned a very deep red. It was as if the entire atmosphere started bleeding.

"What?....."

I couldn't see anything at all it was just the sky had turned a dark red.....No.....Wait.....The sky is moving?

As my mouth opened wide I could feel Sting and some of those near me start to shake..

"Psst....hey Vali...What is it?" - Cyanin

"Gulp....."

My eyes started to widen as the red sky that started to move and I traced a very mysterious shaped figure that started to slowly travel through the sky out in front of the large courtyard.

It had no lower torso...It kind of looked like a reaper with long claw like hands but I couldn't even begin to see what kind of shape this monster is. After trying to obtain information over what monster this could be the entire place had started to show thousands of tiny status bars.... The entire sky is literally covered with these things.....Millions?....How many of those things are there...

'Hjökk just what are those things? I can't even see them without this skill.....'

All I could see was a deep red color indicating a high warning of potential 'physical' danger and met with loud screams that continued to fill the walkway we were standing in.

[….They're Wraiths.....I've never seen so many in one place....Said to be the tortured souls who have been bound by hatred and dark magic....They are extremely dangerous to mortals.]

'I wouldn't have even been able to see them without the skill that much already makes them dangerous.'

Though I could hardly ascertain what they were after reading the term Wraith after squinting my eyes I could see their Levels were each in the low 600s.

RAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!HH!H!!HH!H!H!H!H!!

'What the....fuckkk!!!'

Even through Hjökk's wind barrier around our faces, a world shaking roar came down from the heavens and brought everyone of us to our knees.

RAAHAHAHAHHAHA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It felt like my eardrums were going to explode and my heart were going to literally burst open. I almost felt as if my whole body had lifted up off the ground for a brief moment from the intense sound waves that echoed in ripples immobilizing all of us.

I looked towards my mother and she had tightly pressed her large ears into the side of her head and closed her eyes in pain.

"MMMmmmmmm!!!" - Ollie

"Wha....What?" - Adimar

Even after the roar subsided it felt like our very being had been shaken and we were still frozen in place not even wanting to know what was the source of such a powerful roar.

"AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!!! Soo......HUNGRRYYY!!!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!"  -?

The entirety of the Black Palace walls continued to shake as if the entrance of a God were descending..

There in the distance I saw an image appear at the end of the horizon and instantly grow into such a large figure within an instant in the sky. Just then I felt as if all the color had left my face as this figure is simply so monstrously large I can't fathom how it moved so undeniably fast.

"Wha........"

'What the fuck is that thing?!'

Each of us ducked our heads lower and tried to see what this incredibly long figure that passed by the Black Palace and wrapped around the surrounding black clouds could be.

It looked like a flying serpent whose head and skin looked to be armored and smokey grey. I clearly heard it speak but right afterwards a loud roar came from out the large serpent's mouth and shook everything bringing everyone back to their knees.

"Hjökk...What...What is that thing?"

Even Hjökk had to attempt to shield her ears from the violent sound attack alongside each of us and lowered her eyes.

[Its......It's a Sky Imoogi. I honestly can't believe that old psycho had one of those lying up here, this isn't good!]

"An Imoogi?"

"A what? Are you joking!? AH!!....." - Sting

ROOOOOOHHHHHHH!H!HH!!HH!H!H!HH!H!H!H!H!HH!HH!H!!HH!!H!H!H!H!H!H!

Between the loud roars I could hear everyone bracing themselves from the ear shattering roars.

Looking towards the colossal serpent this thing was clearly larger than any of those Fomorians. This thing were flying through the atmosphere and swirled through the dark red sky and opened its large jagged jaws.  

A large sliver of saliva was swept away by the wind and the large beast revealed a terrifyingly gaping mouth with four large fangs and thousands of tinier ones coming from the top and bottom of its mouth.

RAHHHHHHHH!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!HH!H!H!H!HH!H!H!H!H!H!!H!HH!H!H!H!H!H!

Trying to hold back the pain of our eardrums about to burst I could see that the dark red sky started to get sucked into the large Imoogi's mouth as if he were sucking them all in.

[….And this one has gravity magic...Vali. Don't get any ideas. I'm serious!]

'Hjoökk...How strong is that thing?'

[...Imoogi's are.....Even if they are considered to be Half Dragons.....They are basically the King of all Snakes. Forget the Grootslang, this thing would turn that overgrown worm into a chew toy....They're very old....Considering this world has even considered to have existed when the Titan we're standing on was still among the living, this world has even existed before I was created so.... That serpent could be a few hundred years old or judging by its size could even likely be as old as I am.....Even if I can kill it, that doesn't mean it doesn't have dangerous poisons that could harm me if I were careless....While it is in no way faster than me it could easily crush everyone of you while I would be fighting it. Their vitality is almost that of an actual pure blooded Dragon. It's Level however is only at 744 but.....Vali do not attack him we have no idea what other threats could be lurking out there...]

'Yah you don't have to tell me twice...Wait if it's older than you what's with it's level only being so high?'

[Level is raised from gaining experience and that is still considered a very high level Vali even in this world.... Even if you never killed anything you will still rise in level after your experience rose high enough doing a particular skill or performing a task repeatedly. It would just take a lot longer....In this environment...No telling he's probably trapped here and not always awake. It's probably tied to the dungeon even so perhaps it has also died in here a few times. Limited food supply who knows all the reasons but you should by no means consider that a low level. If I were bitten by it even I would be unable to heal its poison unless I used my Reversion magic to recall my body to a previous state.... Raising your level to a high enough extent in this world would make it to where even I would have to expend some effort....]

I nodded and each of us lowered our bodies a little bit more to shield us from the colossal King of Snakes and slowly started to try and walk forward to the end of the walkway.

'….It seems this world really does have an unforeseen amount of dangers even to give you some worry.'

[How am I not to worry? Honestly if I could, I would have preferred you hadn't gained that Hydra ability just so you wouldn't have that innate sense of security you seem to have acquired....Don't look at me like that! Wishing to fight Balor in a close confrontation. Why did I ever let you talk me into such a thing?]

'Sorry about that...Hard to help it. I'm only human but I do understand the severity of your words...I won't become confident in such a world especially after just running into something like Balor and Malthiel out of nowhere...'

[Just remember Vali...That is a healing skill from an A class monster with only an S class regenerative ability... No one is indestructible.]

I nodded to the purple crow on my shoulder and she smiled after acknowledging her words. For some reason ever since coming back from her talk with Loki she seems more...cautious for some reason.

We ventured forward while practically crawling on the floor hoping not to alert anything on this floor to our presence. As we reached the door Malfius, Adimar and Alderon slowly pushed it open and motioned for everyone to come forward.

As each of us did I couldn't help but take one more glance out the last window at trying to ascertain simply the full size of such a monster....It's was so big I never even got a full glimpse of it's whole body the window was simply too narrow.

Just as I started to slow down a blur appeared at my sides and pushed me down to the floor with a very heavy strength.

When I looked up I saw bending over my fallen body was....

"Alyst..."

Before I could finish what I was saying the neko put her hand on my mouth and instructed me with a glare that said she wasn't kidding and not to say a single word.  

She then curved her body upward some while leaning her wait into me and attempted to look through the open window.

Hjökk who was on my shoulder started to angrily flap her wings then her large purple eyes grew shakeably large and she turned towards the wall and tried to peer out the window too.

'What's happening?'

Adimar, my mother and each of the pixies who were close to the door started to quietly show their anger but were all looked at violently by her and motioned not to make a sound with a knife to her lips.

As Alysteir put the rest of her weight down onto me I felt her large chest pressing through her black uniform and into my own. She was slowly peering over the sides of the window and didn't even notice that her cleavage was pressed rather close to my face.

She then twitched and looked down towards me all of a sudden with a fury in her eye.

'What? You think I was looking at...mmmmm'

In one quick motion she put her hand on the side of my face and aggressively pushed it away.

I got up and too attempted to look out the open aired window.

Alec was standing on the other side of the window and was attempting to do the same thing while notioning to all those next to the door to standby.

As I was looking outward I couldn't see a thing. Simply the image of the large Sky Imoogi's body wrapping around some of the dark clouds but I then noticed the Adler out in front of me begin to whisper and his eyes grew large.

"Can...can that thing see me? No, I don’t think he c.....Wait I think he does see me!! Get down!!!!" - Alec

He flapped his right hand and wings down and tried to use each of his four wings to shield each of us downward.

"What is it?"

"I...I don't know...I...it was so far away it...On the floor below just....Ugh...but I'm pretty sure it saw me just then it... Ah I don't know I've never seen a monster like it before. But even from here it felt like my heart had just stopped- Alec

'What?....'

"Alysteir did you see anything?"  

With my question Alysteir's eyes flashed in my direction briefly and spoke while keeping her head down.

"…My danger awareness skill went off. The moment I walked within view it started then I felt immediate danger to even myself after you did so I figured I'd save your butt for a third time...I couldn't quite see what it was but...Well, it's not the flying snake." - Alysteir

"Hmmm.....Wait....Vali. Everyone be quiet." - Hjökk

Everyone could hear and understand Hjökk perfectly and considering the weight of her words and didn't make a sound.

I then looked towards Cyanin below me and tried to signal to her to make an Illusion for everyone right now. She nodded and looked towards Bifrost and they both closed their eyes and started to slowly wave their hands around.

I could hear the pixies below me gulp and my mother from far away continued to look towards us with fear and concern.

I can't risk anything here...Just what is going on? What did they see?

I tried to activate my Eclipse View again and look through the castle wall and was amazed at how well this worked. There are no glyphs on this wall so I can see through the black stoned wall and can even keep my Achtung Vis skill active as well...  

Now where is …....What?

I didn't even have words for what I was visually seeing slowly approaching the Black Palace. A figure that was not there before is now standing close to where the courtyard and black gate should be.... The color blazing off of it was impossible not to notice as it was as if I were staring directly into the light of the sun.

What?......It's figure is absurd looking.

While it was bipedal it's body shape with this odd Vision skill is simply too difficult to make out. I couldn't even tell what it was but it looked like it had over a dozen arms and each were holding large weapons. It's hair if it had any looked to be made out of fire and was constantly flowing with the same blazingly red and white hot color that looked even more powerful than the Sun.  

Though I can't see it's face I think whatever it is, is staring right in our direction and hasn't moved from that one spot at all....

I tried to squint my eyes and see if I could get a name and level but immediately upon reading through each letter I felt an sudden rush of fear swell into my heart.

'Other than Wraiths and Imoogi's....How on earth did Balor find something like this?!'

Narasimha                       (Level 814)

The Mrigendra

'Isn't that?....Isn't that like a deity? I remember that name...Wasn't that like a lion or something.'

No one moved a muscle looking towards me as each of us didn't try to peak out the dark castle at all. I was only even able to see the shape of something dangerous behind this wall. It had a small crown figure next to it's name that let me know it was a boss in this area.

I could then see a less blazingly red color come down from the sky and cross paths with the large 16 armed being. Then the bright red color from both started to explode outward into the surroundings followed by a large boom.

BOOOOOM!!!

AHhhhHHH!H!H!H!H!!!!!!!!!!!  

The sounds of the Sky Imoogi screaming I could see the long body flying through the sky quickly and flew away into the distance to the point I couldn't even see it any longer.

The same two legged deity didn't move for quite some time and remained motionless before turning around and slowly walking away.

I nodded it was alright to peek but not make a sound.

As each of us looked outward we caught a glimpse of the back of this strange creature that caused even that large Sky Imoogi to retreat.  

It was a pale yellow color and had long red hair with crimson lines covering it's tall body. It was incredibly muscular and would look slightly human if not for the 16 arms coming out of it's back.  

It's dark red hair flowed in such a way it almost resembled flames and even his entire body had a slight glow to it.

AhhhhhhHHHHH!H!!!!!

AhhhhH!!!!!!!

I could hear screams coming from the strange beasts direction and saw his large arms spin around violently into the air waving each weapon around furiously.

It continued to walk forward with no restraint and I could see the red sky and wraiths around the odd being were simply being sliced into two and chopped into shreds.

It continued to walk to the edge of the black clouds then leaped off and onto the ground far below the clouds above.

According to Alec only a moment ago this thing was on what looked like the Floor below this floating castle and felt like he had even made eye contact with him from such a far distance. After we hid, he had no idea how he covered such an incredibly long distance and height at such a short stretch of time.

[What?!!! I can't believe it!.....How did Balor find something like that?]

'Narasimha....Is he like a god?'

[No...Not exactly. It's odd but it's more like a physical avatar that an old dead God use to use in battle during his reign....He could split his conscience into ten very strong beings, that creature was only one of them. He was once the King of all Lions during Vishnu's reign....But after Vishnu died.....His Avatars disappeared with him....How Balor found such a thing and even gave it life is a mystery to me....Even dungeons of this caliber shouldn't have monsters at such a high level Vali. Whatever Balor did here goes against the world laws and how he hid it I'm also unsure....But I will tell you right now. Whether that thing can be considered as strong as  a Deity you must always think Deities are usually stronger than Fallen Gods. Balor was just on this world for a long time.....]

'Are you kidding me? What's the difference?'

[Deities are more like gods that live on Middle Earth and hold advantages for that. Usually they don't appear human either and grant blessings to monsters and other intelligent species.... They don't adhere to the same treaties and laws as those from the Divines must follow so they do have some advantages in this world too...]

'Well that makes me even more concerned now thanks....'

[Balor may have been an exception to this as he was more of a High God before he fell so stop worrying so much......Deities have just been in the world longer is all so only think of it like that, I'm simply doing this to warn you... A Divines body would also be far more tough so compared to Balor there aren't many entities that should be comparable to him in this world in terms of versatility....But I warn you there will be many that hold just as much explosive power if not more......Balor was already a God who when fighting in his domain made it to where it would take multiple other High Gods just to subdue him. Killing him was a completely different story.....Slaying a God is something far more difficult than you could understand right now and yet.....we somehow....made it...Didn't we?]

The small purple crow looked up at me and smiled and I nodded back down to her. I instructed everyone to continue forward for now and do as much exploring before the 30 minutes are up. Anymore time spent in here would be simply too dangerous.

According to Hjökk if Balor had brought that Sky Imoogi or even that other monster the result of today would have been a lot worse. She has no doubt in her mind about that. ' I understood Balor was careless and left most of his important pieces back to use at a later time but....I had no idea he was hiding such hidden monsters that even Hjökk doesn't think we should engage or it would be just as dangerous as fighting Balor without any single hint of preparations....'

That lion avatar was even at a higher level than Balor....

As we got through the large door and closed it the pixies started to shine their flames once again and walk out in front of the pitch black room.

As we continued forward I could hear Sting and some of the others murmuring over the situation and couldn't help but stutter at the realization all of this means.

"...An Imoogi....I can't believe I'd ever see one in this lifetime.....Hah! If only the people back home would believe any part of this tale....hah.....Some wait their whole life times for such an adventure and seeing something like that is almost as rare as running into a rogue god." - Sting

"That snake looked quite dangerous...Perhaps you shouldn't try to fight it Vali. I mean it..." - Elyria

My mother looked towards me with a stern voice trying to scold me and showed her concern.

I admit just now I too had a hint of fear in my heart. Even Hjökk spoke that with just the emergence of what we've seen so far she might even have to use her full power just for us all to stand a chance... While Valkyries are amazingly strong Hjökk says they were originally created to fight in a formation with the rest of her sisters....that is where their true strength lies.

"Don't worry I won't haha...Why do you and Hjökk keep thinking I'm going to start a fight every chance I get?"  

"Oh is the son who said he was going out to 'hunt and 'train'  which I find was actually in a war with an ancient and all powerful evil god, arguing with me right now?" - Elyria

"Alright granted...."  

"Seriously Vali. This is simply astonishing!! I'd never thought I'd live to see such an outstanding creature from myth and live to tell about it. I felt like his voice was actually going to kill me haha....This is extraordinary. If you ever kill that thing you must let me research it!" - Sting

"You quit your nonsense Sting!" - Elyria

"An Imoogi is that much of a treasure to a poisons expert I'm sure."  

"Pshh...Materials from something like that would be a rare treasure to anyone ever! Even as Half Dragons their power is only spoke about in legends. Said to have a poison so rich that only the Sacred Everlasting Life Root Elixir from the World Tree can cure it....If the Imoogi were able to eat the heart of a True Dragon and you were to kill it during its vulnerable state then your rewards would be astronomical....It's speculated if one were to bath in a True Dragon's blood their strength would triple instantaneously. It's also rumored that if one were to eat the heart of a True Dragon it's even speculated you would gain simply boundless effects and even gain 500,000 Mana immediately. Even those who are unable to use magic are said to gain simply unthinkable power...Truly something wondrous indeed.....So food for thought Vali if your crazy enough..." - Sting

"Why are you giving him ideas?! Do you want me to get Fenrir to come play with you?!" - Elyria

"I eh...I was just making conversation he..he..." - Sting

Elyria then turned over and swatted Sting with one of her tails and looked back at me angrily.

"Don't worry I won't get any ideas....."  

'…..She doesn't look like she's playing.... I'm starting to wonder though who these people are who were able to kill a True Dragon and learn of this knowledge however.....That really frightens me. Hey Hjökk...How strong are True Dragons? I know you said Loki downgraded them in the game but if that was a Half Dragon then a True Dragon honestly doesn't sound like any normal Boss monster I've ever seen....'

[...Like I said pure blooded dragons are in an existence to themselves...But they can vary in degree of power through age and other factors.... An Imoogi at a young age and level who was born can simply eat the heart of a pure blooded dragon and become one itself as their bloodlines are fairly close already compared to other species.....You forget some True Dragons can still be born and at times still be considered as weakened in some cases...They also aren't necessarily physical beings they are more of a spiritual race as well...Think of them like Elves only with much more durable bodies and souls....]

'And with thousands of sharp fangs and breathe fire right?'

[Hmph....Every race has their strengths Vali you'll soon learn this too. You'll see even though some of these existences seem unfathomable...They are not all powerful. If one existence was then maybe they would be standing at the top but the fact these races all still remain shows they each have something formidable and tenacious about each of them. ]  

' Well I guess I'll worry about that later...This place is now starting to give me the creeps.'

[It does have a sort of ominous feel to it doesn't it? The light doesn't even seem to want to shine here as well...]

This Floor itself is built like a death trap. They have monsters you can't even see without specific skills. There is practically zero oxygen here and the monsters flying around even to Hjökk she deems as extremely dangerous.

These are Legendary Beasts and the physical bodies of extremely powerful gods once upon a time....Maybe we were even more lucky than we realized. Just the look of shock in Hjökk's face right now tells me again just how lucky we were today.

"Tehee...There... It's kind of dark in here but don't worry we can handle it." - Cyanin

Cyanin and Bifrost then flew back over to Elyria and my sides and sat on top of our shoulders once again. Tanin who was walking out in front with Vale and Kai started standing out in front of us.

"Yah tehee. We can handle leading for now and protecting Vali and his mother. So you keep that in mind Annunakes. " - Cyanin

" And you too Alysteir." - Tanin

Tanin then started to faintly flutter the flames around his fists for some reason as if showing his new overconfidence. 'You know what maybe the fire element is also effecting him some too....hmmm..'

"Guys settle down."  

"Hmphmph...You should listen to your human brother candlelight, or I just might come over and slap those wings off you." - Alysteir

"I ugh....." - Tanin

Tanin then started to nervously look around and then Cyanin started shaking her head quickly.

"Now Tanin if you start fights for no reason we're not going to jump in and help you...." - Cyanin

Tanin then nervously looked back to Alysteir who was giving him a very eery stare right back at him.

"Eh hehe....Well might as well keep searching throughout this huge castle huh...." - Tanin

As our odd party continued to walk through the dark hallway we began to see two large figures out in front of us. They were both at least 20 feet tall but the shape of each looked odd.

Are those statues?

As everyone cautiously got a bit closer the large figures size and distinct features began to take shape. I could even see a light glow coming from what looked like eyes gleaming back at us and we each slowed down.

The one on the right had the shape of a tall jackal and held a large crown atop it's head with a blue and yellow striped cloth coming down the back of its head. It's eyes looked dead and it's body held a long and thin framed dark grey exterior. It held a long weapon that curved outward almost into that of an axe but was curved more like an inverted scythe. It also had a large golden ornamated cobra coming out of the base of the staff.

It was ornamented in many different diamonds and jewels and looked to be wearing a small golden skirt that slightly glowed. It's thin frame however had a large protruding chest and a massive golden necklace with long golden plates coming out of it.

The even larger, bulkier figure on the left looked closer to an elephant but this was...Way more violent looking.

It's tusks looked to be in the shape of sharp curved blades and had a large dark metal armoring its ashy grey trunk.

It's figure made the tall thin framed Jackal look practically small by the sheer mass of the beast on the left. It had long and massive arms that held onto a long saber in one hand and a chain with a spiked ball attached to it's wrist and waist on the left.

It had black armor on and covered almost all of his gut and thick legs but also was adorned in something with emeralds and rubies attached to the cloth coming off his waist. While wearing a black and grey cloth coming out of it's waist, there were bright yellow and red stones embroidered all the way across.  

His large muscular chest extended out past the tightly fitting armor and even covered the backs of this large figures flappy ears which extended down past his waist.

It had heavy scars covering its body and face but didn't look any less intimidating.

As we cautiously approached closer we noticed there to be some strange faintly covered black barrier in front of these two motionless figures.  

'Are these things alive?'

[I think so...But...Their not awake, somethings forcing them to stay in an almost unconscious state.]

As we got closer we could faintly hear them breathing and didn't dare to make a sound. As we got closer we saw they were actually standing on something close to a pedestal and encased in some dark box in front to large doors.

There was almost a barely visible dark barrier between the two figures and us.

Getting closer I could see on the pedestal was written words on each of the plaques.

"Jagannatha Jaeggernaut.......Anubis......"

I spoke the words that somehow just came to me staring at the dark plaque....It's strange but I can faintly see words written here but why are they in a language I can read?

[Hmmm, it's written in such a way you need a high Dark resistance to be able to read it...Interesting.. I....Ju...Juggernaut? Is that what you meant to say?.....This is...Mind boggling to me. Balor appeared to keep displays up of those he's captured as well...This is unsettling.]

Hearing this I thought of maybe potentially releasing them from this encasing and Hjökk immediately started flapping her wings.

[Horrible idea!!!! If Balor put them in here it means he couldn't control all of his minions after Malthiel had fallen....I'm simply amazed he found two Avatar's from Vishnu and even subdued another Deity here like Anubis. We don't know what these beings might think when we free them....Now is most definitely not the time for that risk either Vali.]

"...I agree...."

"Also I don't know if you recall but that other Deity like being outside only had a crown over it's head.....Floor Bosses have a Skull and Crown do they not...." - Hjökk

After hearing these words I stopped and shook my head....Yet another eery feeling started to encroach on my heart.  

'Fuck this place is really starting to scare me. I guess we should at least be thankful for now that they are at least sealed and seem to be in a unconscious state or I would suggest we go back the other way right now.'

"Damn this is creepy." - Malfius

"He put his victims on display?" - Akino

"I think so..."

"Ts....Do his sins know no bounds?" - Malfius

Akino made a grim expression and tried to take her eyes off the deadpan look of the two large monsters. Malfius simply kept shaking his head angrily not understanding the evil intentions that lead to such a treacherous life.

Each of us didn't really have much to say over what we were seeing. Balor's acts of evil have become so twisted it is in all honesty not surprising there were more beings he had terrorized in his lifetime. He actually kept them on display which is insane.

We pushed the large heavy doors open and started to walk into what we were surprised to be a pale blue lit room.

Not far out in front of us was a crystal blue pond encased in stone and some strange blue sphere hovering over it spilling water into it.

We started to walk closer and I noticed that the sphere hovering over the pond was in no means a ball of water.....It was a head......

"...Eww...Is that?" - Cyanin

"Hmm, that's unsettling...." - Adimar

Coming out of it's large round scalp looked like watery hair flowing out the sides and raining down onto the pond below. It's water almost had a clear blue light coming from it and the strange one eyed monster had it's eye halfway open and mouth dripping water into the pool below.

As we approached closer this too had a plaque in front of it.

"…..The head of.....Nuada Airgetlím the Betrayor."

"Nuada?" - Hjökk

"You know him?"  

"….Well, not personally...He was a King of sorts over a small tribe not much different than Deities.....They followed Balor's grandson a long time ago against Balor....I wasn't alive during this but it was said that Balor had killed the Sea God Nuada in battle and his army of Darkness was able to suppress the invading tribe of godlike beings and retreat after taking their leaders life and well....head...I guess he kept it." - Hjökk

To Hjökk's words everyone's face grew unsightly as this was sort of grotesque to feature the head of your enemy....Strange though that even in death his head is still producing water as it's hair and creating a pool below.

"Hmm....Ya know...I bet this is where the drinking water for this dungeon comes from."  

To my words Kai nodded and walked over to the pool and took a sip.

"Hmm...It does taste the same as regular water....It's quite cold. It tastes pretty good too." - Kai

The purple pixie then took out a small shaped yellow and purple fruit and took off the top. It had a small brown rope tied around it and Kai then used it to fill up the water within it.  

I thinking the same thing went to take a drink of the water.

Gulp...gulp...

'Hmm....I was kind of expecting some sort of effect coming from a dead Sea God but well....It does taste good so there's that..."

Tanin and Cynin came to do the same thing and afterwards we each got a drink of water and continued forward.

As we continued forward  I could feel the grip of my mother and even Cyanin on my shoulders start to become more tense

The entire feel and look to this place is quite grim and simply the home of the Dark God is quite unpleasant.

We continued further into the dark room and we could see out towards the walls of this room were large shelves filled with books and items that covered the lengths of the walls.

There was also a very large chair in the corner with a large table next to it.

Out to the far right corner next to the door I could even see a large stone stage like structure with a large black ring towering over it.

However, sitting out on the large table in front of the chair looked like a glowing display of some kind.

Each of us continued forward to the only light source in this room which oddly enough came from this black ambient light that looks to be in a mysterious shape.

The top of it was rugged and the sides were almost flat coming down into a a half ring shape. Towards the bottom of the ring was a double helix shape that extended downward below the large half sphere like object.

As we got closer the images looked similar to a map....

"What is this thing?" - Malfius

"It looks like....a map?" - Kai

"...It's a cartographical display over Middle Earth...." - Hjökk

"Cart....ooo...groofy..hehe you mean a map?" - Cyanin

"No...I don't." - Hjökk

"teehee..." - Pixies

After Hjökk said this confidently and puffed out her wings each of us started to look and study the oddly shaped planet we found ourselves on. It wasn't in the shape of what I thought at all and this is honestly the first time I'm seeing it.

On the top of the almost flat world stood five large continents....While the Eastern and Southern Continents are the smallest they are still impeccably large and extend the entire width of the central continent and even is quite close to the Northern Continent's borders as well.

There were even numerous stars and moons quite close to the planet in which their light touched different parts of the world entirely based on their positions. Hjökk said each of them provided a different level of heat while parts of the planet itself had natural protections from these extreme environmental changes.

According to Hjökk this planet follows a specific rotation that almost allows some parts of the world to receive endless sunlight while other parts of the world to be always covered in the night. One of the Stars pointed towards the edge of the world actually only casts out Dark Rays and even extends it's light that extends up into the Dark Lands of the Vampires.  

There was even a large Golden Sun that touched the edge of the planet on the Southern Hemisphere and created what looks like a sea of fire on the terrain below.....

I can see Jheroki Mountains extended far out past the atmosphere that is similar to the Earth but I can't understand how gravity works on this planet. It's not a sphere....It's just weird...Even the sides of the planet are flat or well some are covered in ice, rock, fire and darkness. This world is host to some extreme level of environments that are being displayed here there is quite a bit that seems to have been mapped out.

The world is shaped like a half Earth and the bottom of it comes down in the shape of a ring and then meets to form a double helix like structure..

[That there should be the entrance to the Netherworld.]

'I see.....'

The large mapped out terrain showed many different environments and markings throughout the display.

In the North there were large Black Mountains with the image of a Black Turtle hovering over it. Further past the large continent at the edge of the world where the flat edge drops off is covered in nothing but ice....

The West showed nothing but mountainous regions and what extended all the way to the edge of the world. There was a picture of a Tiger embedded onto the side of the display.....Even the sides of the planet had strange environments built into the display and look active.

Orbiting next to the planet there were even strange floating land masses that were separated by space itself in orbit around the large world and looked to have decent size to them as well.

The Southern Continent had the image of a large fiery red bird hovering over the display and showed nothing but a vast jungle with mountains rivers and lakes in between. Traveling further South to the edge of the world there is nothing but a sea of fire that extends on a flat vertical surface....However I guess considering the space it's in, vertical isn't the right term for it.

It's rather amazing to look at though.

The east showed our large continent with the Sacred Forest of the Elves...The Dark Lands in the Northern tip of the continent....To the North West Myro...West Asher.....

It showed the Jheroki Mountains and even had a mark at the Dungeon Entrance. There facing the South is an entrance and extended a little bit more South is a few towns and villages next to the edge of the Continent.

To the South West there was a massive forest of trees and Mountains and extended almost extended to about a 25% of the entire continent.  

"Ah...This map even shows the Dark Lands...Sacred Forest of the Elves...The Goblin Kingdom....." - Sting

"There's a Goblin Kingdom in that large forest?"  

"Hmph...Well yes Vali I'd expect you to know that of all people with Monster Season not too far away. Oh come on? You have to know what I'm talking about. Once every 13 years some Moons aline and the mating habits of the monsters in the surrounding area increase and there are large blood feuds between the Goblin Chieftains and are more prone to increase their territory, leaving the Continent's leaders to take care of it....Usually always a big source of revenue for adventurers and even some of the powers from the Central colonies send help if things start to turn ugly...." - Sting

I simply nodded my head and continued to look at the map and study it.

'Balor's monster horde is roaming outside these dungeon walls right now....Regardless in whatever direction they move, we could be looking at a disaster that could even lead to the extinction of some races. Even if Hjoökk spoke of every dominant race in this world has their own hidden powers something like this isn't something I believe can be handled so easily....'

They aren't monsters that can simply be fought by the masses.  

If they go west the Goblin Kingdom is affected... North West they could hit a large number of Kingdoms as well as human and demi human settlements....The North East is the Elves and if they continue North then the Vampires too will be affected......This could greatly alter the Continent if Monsters and several large populations are to have to flee from their homelands. '....When we leave here this is something we need to check into. Hjökk said their tracks traveled North alongside a path beside Jheroki Mountains but we have no idea what could happen now.....'

The further East there seems to be a strange storm display on the map far out past the ocean and above the clouds I can see floating landmasses....Beyond that is the edge of the world and there is a large waterfall and from there what looks like nothing but pitch darkness..... There is also a small symbol of a bluish purple dragon appearing over the display of the Eastern continent.

"Heh...There is even the famous Floating Isles marked here between the Great West to this continent. This is a very well made piece of cartography...." - Sting

I ignored Sting for the moment as these four symbols sounded familiar to me for some reason....

'These insignia sound familiar for some reason....'

[I believe your world had some knowledge over the Four Sacred Beasts. Each are Divine Beasts that live on Middle Earth....It seems Balor was simply marking where he thought they might be...Or who knows perhaps he discovered them. He has even marked where in the Central Continent Yggdrasil lies so he has probably put a lot of time into this.....]

"Where is Yggdrasil anyway..."  

Sting immediately interrupted me thinking I was talking to him.

"Oh, it's in the Rose Empire's Capital...There's actually quite the famous dungeon there as well....That King from Asher you were making a deal with before is actually more of a branch colony to the Rose Empire so he should have some relations to them...." - Sting

'Hmmm.....'

I simply nodded my head again and we each decided to search the mysterious room inside after everyone got a good look at the world we have each found ourselves in now....It's a big world....With all sorts of hidden dangers and secrets lying in it.

We continued to explore this strange room as we could see it wasn't quite as deep to the point that we weren't aware of what else lingered inside.

"….I think this must have been where he did experiments." - Ollie

"Hmm it is rather eerie in here isn't it...." - Malfius

I walked over to the left wall which was entirely built into a bookcase with large leather bound books completely filling the entire room. I started reading through the backs of some of these books and pulled some of them out.

"hmmm"

After opening the book the image of a mutilated Diaga and the Farmer I had killed with his chest torn open. Blood poured out of their mouths and I could even hear their voices.

"Ple...Kik...kilmee.... .nnah...." - Diaga

"Ahhhhhh!" - Farmer

I jolted and dropped the book after seeing what I had.

"What is it Vali?" - Elyria

"...Nothing sorry...Just saw something unpleasant."  

I picked back up the book and saw that the page did in fact had a mutilated drawing of a corpse but was not at all to the same picture I had just now seen.  

'.....That still going on huh....'

I started flipping the pages and each following page with the detailed illustrations started making my stomach churn.

"…...Balor really was a sicko...."

I could see inside were small lettering and drawings of humanoid bodies and pictures describing them.

I flipped the book closed and read out the title I could hardly read on the cover and scoffed greatly at the name itself.

"Vivisection Trials Vol. 67....."

"Hmm...What's that mean Vali?"  - Kai

"….It's when someone dissects something while the subject is still alive......"  

Once the words left my mouth Elyria and the pixies made grim faces.

"Damn...He really was a psychopath....You have the gift of immortality and this is what you do with it huh...." - Alderon

Alderon walked forward to the table out to our left and started observing some of the items. He didn't want to touch any of them but picked up the less peculiar items.

He picked up what looked like the same Hydra Eye I received after our fight with the Floor Boss not long ago. There were also a lot of large spaces missing perhaps some his inventions aren't all here....' I guess this isn't where he did all of his experiments judging by this book...I'd not like to see that room at all.'

I put back the book and picked up another.

"...Are these pill furnaces?....They appear quite old." - Sting

Looking towards Sting I saw him pick one of two oddly shaped items and lifted it up to inspect. It had some odd designs on it and he seemed to think it was an Alchemy tool. 'Hmph, after his long rant about the Alchemy world currently being in a heated war trying to create intermediate grade pills and elixirs that not only grant HP to the target but also heal wounds for cheap. Something like that would be of some interest to him I bet. Maybe Balor dabbled in Alchemy too. He definitely explored quite a lot of avenues it seems since coming to this world.'

I however looked back down towards the book I picked up.

"...Dark Eden Trials Vol. 1...This seems interesting....."

Once I picked up the heavy book it was practically the size of my whole torso. Trying to open it up the pages were each very thin and black. They held no weight at all nor did it have any words on them. It wasn't paper, I just can't tell what this material is.....Wait....I can sort of.....see something.

On the side of the leather bound cover right after flipping open the book had a few scribbling figures towards the bottom.

'Is this an inscription?'

It took me a while to sound out each of the letters which were slowly starting to form and I could suddenly read each word with ease. The letters were odd but like Hjökk said they practically made since to me simply for my affinity with the Dark element.

Each letter emerged and while foreign to me I could see through their meaning after repeatedly looking into each symbol long enough.

    - Ethniu, may you forgive me for all that has come and all that will be. I did not choose this path but it has inevitably chosen thee. Though many obstacles may be placed in my way, I will never allow such treachery to exist over the same night sky that you were taken from me.  

      May all that follows speak to what a father is capable of when he has lost everything. By my words as the King over the night, and sole conqueror over the dreaded Abyss....All will forever remember your name as I carve it into the minds of all existence. My dearest daughter, Ethniu.  

- Balor

'…..Ethniu?.....Hmmm'

I tried to look at the first page of the book but the letters were coming up on the page at different speeds almost similar to pieces in a puzzle. I couldn't read the full word at times and had to guess but letters all over the page would slowly begin to show up and appear in front of me.

This is a Scientific journal into my findings after being trapped in this wretch of a world and data I've obtained over the Dark Eden Experiment.

This world is small.  

I have ventured and found that it is no different than a cage with four walls and I am unable to leave it...  

Hate is all I knew when coming here. It built my world. Imprisoned me! Trapped me here in this nightmare to which I am unable to escape. This new world is small, sickening. Even the air disagrees with me....My hate re taught me how to eat, how to drink. The darkness which I once had such control over merely embraced it and slowly began to change me from what I once knew....

Now with my diminished power, I must find new ways to strengthen myself with the laws of this.... Cursed playground for those abominations of so called Divines and find those responsible for sending me here!

It took a few minutes of looking at the page to finally make out some of the small lettering on the page. '

I continued to flip a couple pages of the black oddly textured material.

As I flipped a couple more pages a few more letters started to from and I caught a glimpse of a familiar word.

'Human Obse....rvation....Day....47...'

I continued to read on and caught glimpses of words here and there but not really full sentences. Though I can somehow perceive this language bizarrely it still appears to be written in Balor's handwriting and is hard to make out entirely....

[window

'....I don't see what the other God's saw in this bleek species...While they have the most diversity and highest population....They truly are....the dregs...of this world.... '

[/window]

I continued reading on I found out just exactly what this book must have been. It was Balor's scientific journal over his observations over everything in the dungeon....

Simply from his wording I came to understand just exactly why Balor had written this journal...Why he had even created such a place......It wasn't to strengthen his creations....but himself.

After turned to about the fourth page I found something interesting.

…...The mortals in this world have a Class system used to give them small or large benefits depending on their aptitudes and ability over a particular field of study....

There are 12 ….Basic....Categories.....each Combat Class or Sub....class...can....fall under.

Warrior                      

Monk

Weapons Master

Guardian

Druid

Cleric

Ranger

Assassin

Sorcerer/Mage/

Enchanter

Summoner

Rare/Unique

There are also a large number of subclass and unique classes in this world that fall under a specific system....

There are even rare classes in this world like the World Spiritualist that fall under the Summoner category. They can make contracts with powerful spirits of the....dead....monsters..... and use their abilities in combat.....Beast Tamers with classes that benefit their beasts....Even something as laughable as Bards who fall under the Enchanter category and aid in group tactics.  

I have however after my long research have chosen....the Dark Lord Class.....for it's small benefits it will grant my heavily diminished....power...

'….I have yet to find anything of value within this race in strengthening myself and other than the previous venture of using their Qi Cultivation methods...It along with their race have shown no promise and continued observation will drop to minimal....'

After I read on I stopped where it said Qi Cultivation....Qi? Wait....

I flipped a few pages back and tried to read a bit more and then found this same word used for Qi after the words started to slowly appear.

'Some of the human practitioners.....use.....unorthodox.....techniques....Not magic....Could potentially …...lead to new power source. Further study .......is required....'

I attempted to read anything more and only received a small description as the words were all like jumbled puzzle pieces and coming at me in completely different speeds.

While magic is an internal force and lives in all things born in this world some of the human population I've acquired use a particular form of power I hadn't ever considered until....coming to this......damned...world!!!

.......Qi...External force....after absorption consolidated into internal force = Spiritual...... Create law within self....

Magic....internal force.....Exert outward...Create law within world...

From the few sentences I could recognize Balor's description of Magic and this other force known as Qi. While in Loki's game some Monk classes could use Qi based attacks. They worked almost like a Magic bar but had incredibly fast cooldown times I almost considered it similar to an extra Stamina bar.  

Magic is an internal force that is in all of us and things that exist in this world. While Qi is essentially a spiritual force that one can cultivate to an extent and then absorb into the body after incorporating it through a technique or method.

I always wondered if INT and Mana played a similar role together. Sometimes when my INT rose naturally my mana pool would grow larger as well which I was curious if they were related...Now I realize that is simply due to the increased neurons that are basically multiplied and created as my Intellect grew.... With the creation of something new, new life, naturally my Mana count would increase as well to a certain extent.

We use our own internal magic to manipulate the world's laws...Qi is an external spiritual energy that can be harnessed and infused inside of you but no one is innately born with Qi inside of them. While Qi by what it seems to Balor is more of a life force/Spiritual energy that not many can even perceive let alone use. After absorbing so much of this life force into oneself not only their body would change but it would also change and strengthen their souls.  

He almost described Qi as a natural byproduct of this magical world we live in almost similar to a form of radiation the planet gives off. But at the same time has just as much or even more raw power potential if one were to learn a way of cultivating this into one's body and even their souls. Qi to Balor while being almost a byproduct of such a magically infused world he described that it also had its own unique life force that worked completely different than magic....

Since his descension Balor started exploring new methods to strengthen himself and he even chose the Dark Lord Class to assist in him that venture.  

Apparently in Qi cultivation in this world is similar to the way it's described in my world but it sounds different in Balor's initial wordings.

Once one acquires a cultivation technique to absorb the spiritual living force that has basically seeped into the air and is practically all around us, their genetic makeup will also change dramatically with time.

He described Cultivation in a way that described someone storing a large amount of Qi energy into something he described as a large jar roughly half the size of a human man.

After cultivating through each individual stage made of 9 Stages in total  within each larger segment known as a Realm, will have the Qi at the end of each interval enter into the person and absorb into his genetic makeup into some energy center he calls a......Dantian..... According to Balor this is a spiritual organ that almost lies dormant in all mortals even if it never gets used. It is however not a Soul.

The change to the practitioner's body goes down to a cellular level and the higher you raise in Cultivation the more tightly compact and condensed this spiritual life force, Qi, will be flowing through your veins changing you into a different existence entirely....

'Hmmm the Soul is very mysterious and this spiritual organ Dantian seems odd too...After my Death Magic and Wisdom rose I found out that my skill Death Grip doesn't essentially kill the target directly like I had originally thought....The target simply dies as a result of having this magic used on them and I found out how intriguing this magic actually is. All Death Grip does is shatter or break the housing over what a person's Soul is. Once that housing or protective barrier is crushed the life force surrounding the Soul of a person is broken so the Soul becomes a Spirit and leaves the body as a natural after effect of not being able to stay on this plane any longer. When someone raises their level to an extent they can even live longer so this is evidence that their Souls can possible be strengthened this way that's why Death Grip doesn't always work....Perhaps if one were to acquire something like this and strengthen their Souls they would even be able to counter my magic....'

'Hmmmm....Other troubling thought Hjökk said the difference between the Fomorian's claws that are ranked S in quality and sharpness and Abgrunds blade that is SSS is that one can damage and sever the soul while the other can't. Maybe there was actually a reason Balor considered Qi as such a vital possibility of research this really is something that could make someone incredibly powerful even Balor considered researching it at one point as a potential power source to strengthen him....He definitely didn't scoff at the effort taken in his preparations but I hope he wasn't one to throw away all the information after he found it wasn't useful to him....I pray the scientist in him would have kept such knowledge.'

With every Stage that is passed the metaphorical 'jar' as Balor has described it gets filled to the brim and enters into the body making the practitioner momentarily vulnerable which has lead to the death of many strong cultivators in the past. While the first container is about half the size of an average human with every passing stage the size increases by roughly 50%.  

With every rise in a Stage of Cultivation, it can increase the practitioners strength, defense, agility and even reaction rate by almost half in the earlier stages, making these practitioners who study it much more dangerous in a head on battle with a normal mage.

While it has merits compared to magic it also has some demerits as well. Apparently...Balor said if this particular energy center was ruptured the result would be the practitioner would no longer be able to practice in Qi cultivation ever again....

Balor also said the cast times for Qi users are practically non existent as they work as a spiritual energy and while there are several Realms that each have stages of their own that can take centuries even to develop?....Wait seriously?

' While those who reach the highest stages have their bodies filled with such spiritual energy they can become..... immortal?'

My eyes widened as I continued to try and put some more of the words together and waiting for more letters to appear. It was however becoming more difficult the deeper in I began to read for some reason. Even if this is coming to me naturally this is still kind of a hassle to adjust my eyes appropriately following the words that keep appearing from within the page.

The..........Deva Realm.....Similar to some deities I've found.....Immortal body in terms of aging....Some can possess immortal.........So....ul....that can remain......after....death......

…....Sovereign.....Realm........believed to have 12 Orbs floating....above head....Speculated to have roughly half power....of lower Divine's.....strength.......

….Can't allow for human leader to reach such a state.....Time is irrelevant but could cause for potential concern....Necessary action must be taken....

Apparently according to Balor there was once a high level Qi Cultivator in this dungeon when the Human race first arrived but Balor thought of it as cheating if he didn't drop their cultivation away along with their level...

'He actually went out of his way to do this as according to Balor he actually deemed this person a threat.....? Seriously? '

It actually sounded more like he was afraid of this one practitioner in fact being able to foil Balor's plans a few thousand years ago. This human cultivator was apparently close to a Cultivation Realm known as the Deva Realm and would potentially become something of an immortal and could sit and hide until he was capable of battling against Balor and wrecking through half of his dungeon with minimal effort.

After he took away their cultivation he spoke as if all their fighting spirit had left them and most of them had even died from despair.  

Balor also spoke a small bit about his body not being able to cultivate whatever this Qi spiritual force is as his body simply wouldn't allow it and he thought it was due to his ability to use it was cut off for following a magical system. '....and looks like he scrapped the entire idea. Damn....'

After flipping a few pages I found another unsettling note after gazing at the page for several minutes.

Day 65

The last of the human populace have died out today and taken their last breaths in Dark Eden. While the Humans had the largest number of assorted classes and abilities they were ironically the first to fall.

While I dropped....everyone's level to 1 upon the arrival I found it necessary to remove the Qi Cultivators long history of cultivation throughout their bodies as well and start their journey over from scratch. Some chose to fight against their inevitable doom but were unable....

Their particular society was based on age as of pillar of authority and respect and stood as the tops of their society during their time here and even before then. However as these practitioners lost their cultivations compared to the average race member of any of the other species in Dark Eden would be able to kill them with relative ease.....With this the human trials have come to a close.

'....Wow.....'

I kind of hope Balor kept some of the materials or information from some of these Qi Cultivators as this definitely sounds like something that could assist us exponentially especially if it can give some of those here the ability to live even longer.

I called Malfius over who was followed by Ollie and asked him if his race new anything about Qi. One of their attacks was called 'Qi Divider' if I recall.

However after probing them about my thoughts they each shook their heads. While they can perceive this spiritual force they don't have the ability to cultivate it into their bodies. It was something the Human race never allowed them to learn thousands of years ago and so the Reiki before even coming here had developed such a technique to fight them it just astonishingly works on Mana as well.

"Hey...Check this out......" - Alderon

Everyone looked towards the large wolfman standing next to Adimar and Akino who were staring at a few items not far away.

As we each grew closer we looked at several very decorative items laid out on the long table

"This breastplate is Legendary Class......Hmmm this box I think is too...." - Akino

"They do have that sort of glow about them don't they....." - Adimar

"…..My, my such incredible looking items." - Malfius

As we each grew closer we saw laid out were 5 Legendary Classed items according to Hjökk clarifying it for us.

According to Adimar this dungeon currently has 2 Legendary items they have acquired since coming here....One was King Karah's golden bracelet, ....the other belonged to Adimar.

He took out a long silver sword with a platinum wolf's jaws coming out the bottom of the handle with a small silver ring attached to it. 'Hey this is the same sword he did the ceremony with.'

When the fight broke out on Floor One I noticed Adimar fighting with a weapon but had no clue it was a Legendary Item either.

"That's pretty cool. What's it do?"  

"While it being extremely lightweight, it is unbreakable and Attack Speed is better than any sword any of our races can make. It has a skill that can launch the power of the wolf that can even restrain a floor boss for a for a brief moment as well as having a skill that absorbs the Moonlight and increases the damage and sharpness of the blade to make it slice clean through Steel slabs. It has it's own level of Proficiency with the user to increase it's power and ability over time as well as a few other secrets... According to our history this item is something that actually came with our race before coming to this dungeon." - Adimar

Adimar grinned towards me and I nodded back.

"So your Proficiency must pretty high now?"  

He then shrugged and I remembered that Diaga had probably inherited that as this is probably something of a Holy Item to their race. Perhaps the Proficiency drops back to Zero whenever the sword is used by another person?

"Well that's still really good though. So you and Kyrah are the only two in the dungeon to have Legendary Equipment?"  

"Ah...Make that 3."  - Alysteir

Alysteir then smiled and everyone looked at her.

"What? Don't you like my boots?" - Alysteir

Everyone then looked down and I instantly realized.....Is that how you could do all the things you could do?

"What? Everyone mad because I never blabbed. I found it better that way.....Hmph looks like a few of you are recalling I kept these accessories on even when thrown into that cell. You'd be much less likely to ask me to take them off if you hadn't known. Not my fault you all didn't know. But I suppose with how things are going now why not share and tell...." - Alysteir

'So that makes 8 Legendary items found in this dungeon....Malfius and Adimar spoke up and said we could contemplate the spoils later and we each collected the 5 items and I also collected each of the items and books that were left in this room.

"Is that how you move so fast?" - Akino

"Hmph...While it helps a bit...It also has the fun ability of slowing down all those within a certain range of me....Quite the find indeed got it off a tricky Floor Boss that was a real bitch to kill." - Alysteir

'You're kidding me.....That's how she moved like that? Even if she's fast even in Lightning Step Alysteir would simply dance around me. Why is she telling us this now of all times? Wouldn't she want to keep her mouth shut to maybe receive more treasures? '

[Her boots aren't ordinary either...While Legendary Items all have extraordinary effects her Boots are quite something to be able to slow down time even for something like Balor in his fallen state.....]

Hjökk whispered in my ear and I too notion that such an item along with their races elusiveness makes her a practically unhittable.

'I wonder how strong my Frost Sword is for that matter. '

I took it out for a moment to see if I could see any of the skills that were still unblocked and unreadable. Maybe I should have let someone else use this in battle? Well can't go back on that now....

'Come to think of it I need to have Pek look at everything I own as well as all of these pieces too...He has some ability that allows him to see not only what the ingredients used to make the item he has the ability to sometimes even see the process in how certain items are made and function.'

"Hey.....That's quite the sword you got there hero boy...." - Alysteir

I then noticed the slim neko staring heavily towards the Frost Sword slowly showing a light snow coming off of it.

I had almost forgotten about it due to the enticing feel of Abgrund but if Legendary Items can do something like Alysteir's boots then maybe this is something that could add to our fighting power as well.

"Might I have a look...." - Alysteir

I looked up again and noticed the neko was still staring towards the sword and even if I felt odd I let her take hold of it momentarily. Perhaps a Sword Master can see the hidden qualities of this sword.

After handing it to her, Alysteirs eyes grew wide and she picked it up and started effortlessly swinging it around her.... A brisk cool air brushed past each of us and cooled our faces.

"Hmm seems fortified and tempered steel....There are some other elements in there I'm unsure of." - Alderon

[It's actually 200 Tempered Steel and has the blood of Glacier Beast. In the smelting process it was most likely melted down with that of a fang from an Ice Dragon..... It also seems to be enchanted some but I don't know the origin or to what it all entails I'm afraid....Vali...Why you are trusting that psychotic kitty with such a thing bugs me.]

'I can't see anything about the sword and can hardly even use it to cut the Fomorian's fur....Though it bugs me too....What's the harm in letting her look at it?'

Hjökk simply gave me a smug look and we continued to watch Alysteir swing the weapon around in a series of beautiful motions.

"You there....Take a few strikes from me...." - Alysteir

Alysteir motioned to Adimar and he took out his long silver sword and got into a stance that showed the discipline of an expert.

Alysteir then pushed herself forward and sent a series of strikes towards Adimar while he lifted his silver blade and deflected each incoming attack while taking a step back each time.

Her movements were flawless and even while holding back I could see that Adimar was having a difficult time yet was still able to deflect each of her strikes. The Silver Sword then started to show an icy glow and started to slowly get covered in ice crystals.

The weight of the blade started to increase and with that Alysteir's movements became even harder to deflect.

Within another breath Alysteir scraped the sides of Adimar's shoulder and then stopped.

"Hmm...Not bad sword. Perfect balance, weight...Even slows down the target with every cut...I'm impressed. Interesting skill names too.....You wouldn't happen to want to part with it would you for a trade? I mean.....You did destroy my custom made rapier's before didn't you?"

"Haha....Not a chance....Unless your thinking of parting with those boots."  

I then reached out my hand back towards her and the neko peered back disappointed but still handed me back the weapon.  

"Hm perhaps we can make a deal another time....With all the unseen fortune we are to acquire you never know what might peek one's interest as the spoils are each divided....." - Alysteir

I shrugged and then looked over to where everyone else was but was distracted by what I saw in the corner of the room.

"Hehe...I don't want to, you do it." - Tanin

"What? No way something will probably attack us if we did?" - Vale

"Hehe..I'll do it...." - Kai

The purple pixie then walked up onto the strange stone monument with odd symbols surrounding it. The moment he set foot in the center something happened.

A dark substance drew out of what looked like runes on each stone and started to swirl and circulate around the purple pixie.

Kai looked around stunned and lifted his arms up trying to feel what it was that was surrounding him.  

His siblings started to get scared and leaped towards him but then Kai started to do something strange halting them and my movements.

"hahahah.....Wow! You guys have got to try this...I just learned a skill!!!" - Kai

"What?" - Malfius

"No way?" - Ollie

Everyone then ventured forward to where the pixies were standing in the corner of the room and Kai described to each of us that he got a new skill for standing on the large pedestal.

"What is it Kai?" - Cyanin

"Yah bro tell us." -Tanin

"Ugh...I....Ugh perhaps each of you should come in and stand here and then you'll understand haha...This is amazing!" - Kai

After that one by one everyone went and stood on the platform. Each and everyone of them besides my mother and Sting received the skill. After I went up and stepped in to see if it worked for me I too was met with the same rune magic activating and surrounding me.

Congratulations! Due to your merits within the walls of Dark Eden you have learned a rare magical skill that has been passed down by the late Dungeon Master: Balor the Endless Dark.

Dark Aura                    (Rare)

Wrap the darkness around you and shroud yourself in its everwarm embrace that will shield and absorb all incoming damage.

Skill Cost: 50,000 MP

Skill Length: 10 Minutes

Cooldown Time: 24 Hours

After everyone gained the skill I was instantly amazed by what I had saw. Everyone didn't have the mana ability but according to Hjökk and Sting something like this is normally left in Dungeons like this. Some rewards can be treasure, powerful items and even long lost skills that were created or left by the Dungeon's creator.

'You're kidding we each have a Dark Aura Ability now? It's not the same as my Gauntlet but just the fact that I can start training this ability now and don't need to bring out the Gauntlet is like a dream. Now everyone in this dungeon might even be able to receive such an incredible defensive gift.'

"….You're saying that they each gained the skill? Ugh! If only I could have gained it too that isn't fair! I hear reaching the top of an Age of God's dungeon could grant one with great power! This is no fair I helped!" - Sting

Each of the pixies tried to create a small auras around themselves and showed they too now had the gift that was granted by my gauntlet and simply shrouded over their colorful barriers

Hjökk too had also gained this skill after standing on the pedestal and believes in time if training this skill high enough....It might be possible reach the same extent of Balor's aura that was even different than the one the Midnight Gauntlet possessed as it even caught and trapped you if you were too close.

Hjökk's even amazed she was able to learn such a skill, thinking it's even possible for any of those here who've learned it to use it if they had enough mana.

"Wait seriously?"

"Yes. I believe it to be so. Other Dungeons of this Class can give special skills to those who have conquered it or defeated bosses with the opportunity to learn an ancient magic even if they were unable to use magic in the first place....It channels everything concerning the skill to your mind and teaches you subconsciously how to focus your mana into releasing such an ability. It creates a Dark law with the Darkness around you and requires only the skill name to activate it....Dungeons that are warded to such an extent to keep the monsters contained inside or to eternally continue respawning them certainly must pay in high rewards as well...It's the laws of the world." - Hjökk

Everyone simply nodded as if this fact were somehow believed by everyone...Including Sting and my mother.

"So...You're saying if our Mana reaches 50,000 we shall be able to use magic as well?" - Akino

To these words Hjökk lightly nodded causes everyones eyes to brighten...

'This really is an amazing find. I can't believe we found this here.  

We have to let the other races possibly come up here sometime and hopefully gain these skills and benefits as well. This is simply amazing....Judging by each of these items and treasures I can't wait to examine each of them.

I checked the time on the warp key and noticed our time was about up....

I told everyone it was time to go but Alysteir motioned for us to hold off.

When we looked towards her we noticed next to her carved into the wall were 10 places with different sized handprints and pictures of a different race above them.

The Pixie...The Human...The Elf..... Each race was here.  

Alysteir said after placing her hand on the Neko paw print it said her race was rewarded 100,000 Gold for making it this far and was gifted to her.  

After hearing this each of the races present went up to and placed their hand on the mark but once the handprint had glowed and faded it never turned back on again.

"hmmm....."

[windows]

Congratulations!  

You have reached the end of your journey within Dark Eden and have now acquired the just rewards.

100,000 G  has been awarded to you as an affiliate of the Human Race which were one of the original 10 species captured and brought here thousands of years ago. Spend the gold which is tarnished with blood and death well human......

[/window]

According to Hjökk whenever a dungeon is created there are certain things the Creator must abide by....Rewards are something that have to be provided to assist in the creation of something capable of repeatedly spawning monsters...She also said somewhere in this Dungeon should be a power source that controls everything inside from the weather to the respawn rates of the vegetation ....The process she spoke of on how the rules of this world seemed complicated but was also something I knew would benefit us if we were able to use it. I decided it is something we should come back and explore later as now there simply isn't enough time....

Acknowledging we would all split everything later we figured now it was high time to leave and report everything we've found. I still need to speak with the King and each of the race leaders.

Hopefully, everything can work out but with everything we've found here......I think quite a few of our troubles have at least lessened for the time being.

…....Ehehe........Watch me Kayle....watch me....

'What?!'

I whipped my head back abruptly hearing the sounds of.....Of....

I heard a familiar laughter that has been absent in my ears for....far too long.

"...kaylan?....."  

I whispered those words and could not find the source of the sound.

It was as if nothing but fear, sadness, hopelessness had all attacked my mind at the very moment scanning the dark room around me but finding nothing.

"Is everything alright Alpha?" - Akino

"…....."

"....Vali?" - Cyanin

I shook my head and figured I must have been hearing things....'It wouldn't be the first time....'

I smiled to myself and assured everyone everything was fine and we should get going.

"Sorry....thought I heard something.....Let's get going...."

I could see the concerned looks from my mother and even Hjökk but chose not to trouble either of them.

'Hmph.....I wonder what she'll say when she sees me... This....Dark Lord....'

All I could do was slowly push such thoughts again further down and continue my journey until we inevitably meet again, in this magical world.....

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  

Cassandra's POV:  

"This is....everything then?" - King Asher  

"Yes your Highness....That is all." - Master Shen  

"…......." - King and Queen Asher  

His Highness and the Queen were utterly speechless. Master Shen divulged everything that happened after we were tasked with finding Vali and bringing him back to speak with them. Naturally.....Things were not anything close to what was expected at all.  

Master Shen had even included the information about Vali's strange abilities and even the effects of the food he had prepared which was something that made his Highness choke and almost fall out of the chair upon hearing. An auto recovery ability is probably one of the rarest and most difficult to acquire and yet eating a delicious meal can provide something no one on this continent can do. Simply one of the things that occurred could be considered mind blowing but added together it is too much to process all at once.  

All original plans that his highness made now need to be reevaluated as we have undoubtedly underestimated the horrifying power we are about to ally ourselves with. The entity known as Vali.  

Currently the five of us were secluded in a small bedroom with one bed, a chair and a small table with the light from the single window shining through. We had decided to speak alone with the King after arriving. While some of the children here seemed suspicious of Vali not returning with us, they seemed to also know that the purple bird on Vali's shoulder was in fact an enchantingly beautiful woman from the heavenly realms that are spoken about in myth. Her alone could topple our entire Kingdom within a day.

This divine beauty with her power alone fought the onslaught of a terrifying monster horde with just her strength so we could have a chance to survive...This is just one of the nerve racking occurrences we each had just witnessed. Even now hearing it, it almost sounds like a fairy tale my father would tell me just before bed when I was young. As I grew older I started to believe such things as being make believe but with mine own eyes I saw a world shattering power that I am even now having trouble comprehending.    

Even though I have studied the art of swordplay and fencing since I was a child and listened to my father speak on military strategy while enjoying childhood games, I was not prepared for this.  

The godlike existence who created those horrifying titans, shook my very being with the overwhelming pressure of his voice alone. It felt as if Balor could have sent me to the afterlife just with his loud roars alone.    

If I didn't have such benefits from all the surrounding buffs of everyone and Vali's mother, I wouldn't even had been able to stand and would have already become a corpse  

Even though I was viewing the battle from afar, I could still see his alarming might that slayed hundreds with every swing of his sword. It was enough that even those who weren't struck directly by it were still sent to the next life from the sheer force that followed behind each of his devastating movements.  

One had even landed directly on him and yet, he didn't die.... Those images of the battle were still fresh in my mind and even in the middle of fighting for my life. It was as if all eyes were on the blurry images of Vali and those who were bravely fighting the evil god without any fear for their lives at all.  

I was standing back to back with both Master Shen and Shakko who were each advancing along with the surviving members of the Rear Guard that consisted of everyone who wasn't attacking Balor directly. Up from the grounds the dead crawled out and began to immediately turn everything chaotic as the walls and even the ceilings seemed to have come alive and converged down to destroy us all.  

I thought there was no possibility of survival, that a simple errand of retrieving someone would turn into a bloody war that could potentially envelope the entire world. I couldn't even see an end to the overwhelming undead that had all came rushing to our position as if we were being suffocated. Even as the dead, their movements were still quick and deadly...A simply wrong step in my footwork and I would have perished already a dozen times.  

Within a moment not only were we surrounded we were overwhelmed. Every single man, woman and child had to fight for their lives just to survive but I don't believe I've ever seen such a number of monsters gathered in one place at one time, and it is impossible to have the benefits of our formation as everything has now been enveloped in chaos.  

The Demi Humans with striped hair jumped out and formed a line in front of everyone so we could continue to press on and reunite with the front battalion. Their strength and valor in the face of annihilation was breathtaking. Some were completely surrounded by dozens of enemies at a time but continued to blow through the large sea of monsters as if it were child's play. It's as if they were taking each and every attack head on as if they were the bites from an insect...."March Forward!'. Without losing any time everyone followed without any delay. These striped demi humans who were starting to glow showed such imposing power that allowed us to move quicker.    

Through an overpowering number of undead we braved forward for our last ditch effort we could do. There was no place to retreat and the only way for survival was to reunite with everyone and make our final stand.    

Even the small almost innocent looking furry demi humans, who had been standing next to each of the Arachnee, fired their ear rupturingly loud weapons that obliterated everything within their path. Some would even stand out in front of the spider like demi humans and wave these large black clawed gloves that could slice the limbs and body parts off of everything that neared our formation including the enemies armor as if it were piece of parchment.

I was originally frightened we wouldn't even be given the option of retreat but each and every race showed such tremendous fighting power that even at such a disadvantage it blossomed in my heart a tiny sliver of hope.    

While I was struggling just with two opponents each of these ordinary demi humans would blow through dozens within the span of a couple breaths. Each race had such frightening strength that each of their attacks would not cause damage to their opponents like ours but kill them within each precise movement they made. Simply the sight of this was so exhilarating I could feel the confidence in Shakko and Shen beginning to move with much more precision and have each adapted well to the constant changes of this bloody fight with these monsters.  

But none were quite as frightening as the small pixies we had recently become familiar with. Any and everything that would attack even one of them would eventually just become a pile of scorched bones and rotted flesh. From within our own formation fire continued to pour out in every direction attacking any and all undead getting anywhere close to formations and caused a substantial amount of damage allowing only a few swings from me to finish them off completely.

Each and every one of them would fly together and overrun and bombard every undead monster one by one. These pixies who made it possible for us all to see flew throughout the formations overhead slowly cleaning up the monsters from within.    

It was almost like the undead were incapable of even fighting back as they appeared to move much slower when simply nearing them and their powerful magic overwhelmed them..... Then one of them started to glow and blinding white light appeared. It was as if the entire dungeon floor had turned into an ocean of fire it had caused the bloody battle to freeze to a stand still.

Within no time every race began to grab a stronger footing under the relief effort from these small magical demi humans. They had swiftly swept through the horde within our ranks until the dead falling from the sky and attacking from inside our formations had turned into a pile of inflamed corpses that came crashing down towards the floor.  

Each and every undead surrounding us had caught aflame in a powerful white light and started to melt and fall while those who were standing a mere pace away from them were left unharmed. It was as if the flames engulfing the dead were as hot as the sun but they didn't couldn't even synge the hairs on top my head.

With this lucky break we continued to push forward with much less resistance and just when I thought we had a chance I saw the image of Vali and the hundreds of surviving members still in a battle of life and endless death with Balor.  

Even from so far away I could feel his tyrannical power that I wouldn't ever dream of going up against...His health looked critically low meaning Vali and his troops had somehow managed to back this evil existence into a corner. I thought there was a chance but within moments those dreams were crushed when the images of hundreds were being wiped out, slaughtered! WIth every swing those who tried to get close were only being blown backward in pieces.

Then the images of Vali, his wolf and the Valkyrie maiden were all sent flying away after being devastated by the fallen gods tyrannic strength that broke through the dungeon walls that he had been pushed back into.  

I didn’t have the ability to even keep track of anyone's movements, they were all moving so fast. Even Shen looked forward with shock on his face as this was truly a fight we had no hope of giving Vali any assistance.... We were simply treated like extra burdens for him but he still chose to fight head on with the beast god with those who have been trapped inside here for thousands of years.  

I saw the image of Balor delivering the finishing blow to Vali, and thought it was the end...I don't know why but after everything had happened all of our hopes had lied on the words of what this mysterious young man had said. If Vali had died then it could have also meant the end for all of us. Not only everyone back in that dungeon but possibly for the lives of many of those outside as well.  

Something about his words and his confidence just let us feel there was actually a glimmer of hope of escaping, of surviving. Even now Vali and his forces of godlike warrior demi-humans had even pushed this ancient and evil force to such an extent but with heavy casualties. How they are even still alive when facing such a high level legendary monster is possibly even a sign the Gods have not forgotten about us.  

Over such a frightening high level being that has existed for who even knows how long, Vali was even willing to take on and stake his life on what he had believed. Most wouldn't have taken up such a responsibility. Most would never have even attempted to fight and yet he chose to put his life on the line..... And had even came out victorious.  

"….Hm, well my Lilliana. I do believe our current problem with Myro may just happen to have been solved a bit easier than we originally expected it would...." - King Asher  

"….Hmph, then why do you not seem as excited of this my husband. Is it possible you are rethinking our relationship with Vali upon all of this news? Possibly to our current business arrangement with him as well?" - Queen Asher  

"Naturally... This all...certainly changes things. If what Shen described to be true this could in all actuality, greatly affect our Kingdom in more ways than I possibly could have imagined...and sadly, much quicker than I had anticipated. Which could in all honesty become a huge problem for the Kingdom if not handled appropriately....." - King Asher  

To the King's words each of us Royal Knights seemed to be confused by his true meaning could be.    

"Your Highness? What do you mean this changes things if you don't mind my intruding?" - Shakko  

"It's fine Sir Shakko, you are all my current council as we are quite a far bit away from home...We were already preparing to provide Vali and some of his with gold for something like a 5 or 10 year contract. Give him land and some authority as originally proposed but I did not plan on providing him with a high enough position to cause too much trouble and more importantly grant me more time. He is still an outsider and cannot be trusted yet....While the no child slavery law will be hard to pass and receive some friction it is not impossible. However, it will take time and in all honesty I figured if this is the only thing he wished to change then why not, it could affect business and the economy poorly but it is worth the costs. We can surely risk butting heads with a few of the noble factions too and could even spread it around that it was proposed by the Church of Freya......I however did not anticipate that Vali had such strength that is only talked about within myths.... A being who doesn't come around for over a thousand years. He is not just a strong force but something completely... More frightening...With the temperament he's shown and just by his words alone I know he was serious about his warning he told me first day we met at the Coliseum. Just after he had vanquished several of mine and Aldain's men....'I don't know who you are but with your crown I'd assume you’re the King of the other country....If your country is ran like this one, you might share the same fate as they do'." - King Asher  

As the King took a deep breath with his fists clenched he seemed to shake his head as he continued to rethink everything he had just heard. Once hailed for his wisdom in battle he was even granted a royal title from the Rose Empire for his incredible mind that has won his home Kingdom in Rose an epitome of glory in battle. He must have weighed the pros and cons with allying himself with someone like Vali before even coming here, but he couldn't have predicted anything we had just revealed to him either, no one could. These are things even those of the Great West will travel here to speak to Vali if they were to hear of such incredible things as well.

The King then started talking almost as if he were just thinking aloud.

"...According to him he doesn't seem to see the difference between us and Aldain if we didn't do this one thing. It's as if the idea of slavery seemed immoral or even completely foreign to him. I originally thought he could have been a slave but that doesn't seem to be the case. He didn't ask for slavery itself to be abandoned which is a question that has brought me some concern. I can only assume if the whole process took too long, he might eventually walk the streets of each of the 32 cities of Asher and could just as easily destroy all order taking every child slave by force. Then a small problem could turn into a disaster....With his power as you've described is even more frightening than the night he decided to show off his power to us. Now he has the backing of a large demi human army that are all over level 300 which is something that no one on the continent other than Myro would be able to stand against without their overwhelming numbers.. Some of these races like the winged demi humans haven't even been seen in this world for over a thousand years so the advantages and strengths they could possess are also complete unknowns..It is something that could overthrow our Kingdom with very little resistance....Hah...And he knows it too.  

.... I honestly thought even with Vali's strength he wouldn't want to risk fighting alone against each of the noble and rich families that would surely not agree to his terms. You each know how some of those petty dregs can be especially when concerning their money. But now that's just idiotic to continue believing...He wouldn't back down to anyone who disagreed with him, even me. You each saw his temperament when meeting me, though he was cordial he doesn't seem to have much respect at all for royalty which is a problem if we needed to control him when he got out of line. It seemed at first like he more wanted to just have an Alliance with us than become a Vassal and then he made his other demands so he wanted a stake in this Kingdom for some reason.... If we ally ourselves with him we have to prepare ourselves for whatever could follow. If he was the main orchestrator behind the method of attack against that fallen god as you have described, he is clearly a brilliant strategist as well. In all my years I have only ever heard of human forces killing deities which are like gods in mortal flesh but something like a God from a higher plain is like the difference between air and gold....He may be the first human to ever achieve such a cosmic feet and yet no one in the world knows of it at all. Only we do which is what makes this such a rare opportunity....However, if he has been lying this whole time we could potentially be opening our doors for this person and granting him the keys to the kingdom indeed." - King Asher  

"…....." - Everyone  

The King's words were sharp, right to the point. The King spoke of everything that had been plaguing his heart for all this time so as to possibly receive the council from those around him. He has clearly been trying to comprehend just how to handle this entire transaction with Vali for quite sometime while also heeding the warnings we have given him.  

'I was once told by my father that the King of Asher was famed for his genius in battle and even after being wounded he was still a valuable asset to the Rose Empire in the Great West. He is someone who has always been very cautious with everything he does and that is why Asher has not been involved in any wars for over 100 years but kept a firm hold on the continent as one of the strongest reigning powers. My father told me they would play chess quite a lot when I was growing up as they first discovered the war simulation game in the Central Continent. 'The King is someone who looks at all sides of the chess board before ever taking a single move as he knows the value of each loss of every single piece. He is truly a King that values the efforts of each individual soldier and doesn't take pieces without knowing the immediate result that would occur next. Making him an extremely cautious individual. However, according to my father, when the King has the resolve to strike he is ruthless and will continue to attack and take every piece until the entire board is empty.'  

"….I think my husband might be overthinking things a little hmphmph..." - Queen Asher  

The Queen then leaned in and wrapped her arms around her husband and smiled. His Highness grabbed his wife's hands and continued to have a troubled look on his face.  

"I suppose I should listen to my wives council if she is willing to spare her keen thought for this old man." - King Asher  

"Oh dear I believe if Vali were putting on an act all this time simply to gain an entrance into having authority in our Kingdom he wouldn't continue with the idea of simply wanting land for him and his people. He wouldn't continue with the notion to us about not being conquerors for us as if he was wanting to truly impress a King of any nation he would surely act quite the opposite in fact. Unless he was trying to appeal to us specifically which doesn't add up well. It is true that we should be concerned as we do not know much about this Vali person other than he has confirmed he is a man who has been touched by the gods while also appearing to have a peculiar relationship with them as well. He apparently even speaks to his God quite often which means his train of thought would be surely different from our own. Just look how the genius son of Myro Adel has changed the continent in such little time...To that we also can assume by it being a Valkyrie that guards him it is also a God from the mighty Asgards from legend. He up until this point has not shown any signs of being corrupt or even evil. While most true evil hide behind a mask this is someone who killed a god that this Queen believes also to be evil. Now this person is willing to step in and help us in our hour of need. To defend off the possible unified invasion of multiple Kings ... Even if we do not win a war we can easily cause that old fool Myro to back off as they are already in a heated and bleak battle of attrition with the Elves that have lasted for centuries.....And don't worry about the situation with Vali's demands as I have already come up with something that Vali should find much more intriguing and we shall see if he accepts....In all honesty I believe my King has truly found a fountain of endless blessings from the Gods today with this potential relationship with this unique man Vali. " - Queen Asher  

"Hmph...My Queen too has been deliberating about this just as much as I. You truly were always much more clever and had a keener eye so perhaps you are right..." - King Asher  

The King and Queen continued to console one other but still seemed to have a troubled look on their faces. Shakko then spoke and agreed that if Vali were putting on an act all this time just to deceive us then his acting abilities would have to be Godlike.  

"...Oh also your Highness. I almost forgot to tell you something else that has been troubling me. It is something I believe his Highness should ..." - Master Shen  

"Come now Shen we've been friends practically sense we came out of our mothers' bellies. Just speak and stop with all the formalities it's just us and I respect your words enough to know all of what you said are fact or else I wouldn't be so troubled now would I? Just tell me." - King Asher  

"...Sorry Mikhail but you and your wife are the ones who made me go through that etiquette training so remember that.... We also had the opportunity to speak with a peculiar fellow who happened to be from the Central Continent. His relationship with Vali all started when his party was sent by a noble family that have a branch clan in Myro but are actually from a large country in the Kingdom of Kario.... This adventurer joined them in the pursuit of Vali after the Aldian incident and were seeking to possibly entice him over to their side....Things went sour and Vali murdered all of the trespassers quite brutally that by his description alone sounds pretty gruesome even for things that you and I have seen..... This Vali is merciless to his enemies." - Master Shen  

Master Shen continued to talk about some of our conversations with a high level adventurer who came from the Great West. I always heard the Great West was like going to a different world entirely and even one of the Four Great Empires could compare to the size and population of the entire Eastern Continent. He however also told us in vivid detail how he came to the Eastern Continent and even ventured to the Kingdom of Myro and took a job to pursue Vali.  

'It's not an uncommon story that is told in the streets of Asher. Strong adventurers or someone who have discovered a powerful artifact are usually pursued and never heard from again. They either join the stronger factions or are murdered for their powerful items. If the individual shows real promise sometimes they'd even be invited to the Central Continent to live and join some of the great powers there and live a life of luxury. As even some fallen nobles have more wealth than an entire Kingdom from the East. However whenever those strong figures or guilds are refused sometimes it doesn't always end well.    

There's a saying in our country that goes ' If you are a Mouse you can only escape or be chewed, but to a Lion you are either friend or food'.'  

Sting however was the sole survivor of his party and for a reason that even surprised himself was shown mercy by Vali. While this can also be evidence of his good morals there was something slightly more alarming to this story than that.    

"...The point of my bringing this up is within this groups party just happened to be the younger brother of one of the 12 Grand Sages. Not just somebody but the Saint of Thunder Donner, which is a name that has become famous and unshakeable. Even reaching the ears to the ends of the world. After learning this fact Vali still killed him without hesitation. This is why regardless of Vali being a morally good person at his foundation, I still must insist on this warning my King.....Hah....If you ally yourself with this person.... As her Highness has just spoke while this occurrence could be seen as a gift from the heavens....You need to also prepare for the fact that this could also lead to the annihilation of our Kingdom as well....He is someone who not only does not show hesitation when declaring war on Aldain himself and doesn't bad an eye at potentially making enemies with one of the strongest figures in the Human Kingdom...Something we couldn't ever hope to defend ourselves against.....You will also have to prepare to sever many relationships in the coming days.....Even the ones with Rose....." - Master Shen  

'Wait...Why? Does he truly mean that? Sever our relationships with the Rose Empire would make us equivalent to a rogue nation. Without the backing of one of the Central powers there is nothing stopping any foreign Kingdom to declare war on us even those in the Central Continent would probably attack us just to earn the favor of Rose and gain an already established territory in the west and reap the benefits... Our entire strength right now relies on the backbone with this Empire while we still have a large army and strong force to protect the Kingdom in times of urgency but for how long would that go on for? It would only be a matter of time before Asher became a mark in history that would forever be erased.'  

"My, my Shen do you believe that our relationships with the Empress would also be affected with our relationship with Vali? " - Queen Asher  

"Not yet no....But potentially, who knows? And if that time comes my warning is whatever decision you make now you must stick with it or risk an even greater casualties for crossing either of them. This person Vali has the astonishing ability to absorb skills from monsters which we believed to be true considering the evidence. It is not confirmed but with everything we've seen it's a damn good bet... If that's the case then what happens after this person absorbs something from that fallen god....All those horrific monsters...Those giant beasts? There's a monster in there that eats souls for crying out loud. I heard once that some of the Hero Weapons have the ability to actually strengthen itself over time and in turn strengthen the Hero and even their party....Not all of them can do what Vali can do though. His body is practically indestructible...He took a sword strike from a magical weapon the size of a city wall that could kill those hundreds of feet away when caught by the heavy sword pressure following behind it.....And yet the damn kid actually saw us off and didn't show any signs of a single scratch on when we left.... It's highly possible this person is even more frightening than we even realize.... Even with all my understandings of the sword I could never hope to have a chance at fighting such an enemy. With his abilities he could even drop an army behind enemy lines within the heat of battle. Even if I'm not as accustomed with military strategy as you are, I can easily understand the impact this could hold when facing any enemy..... " - Master Shen  

"Yes your Highness I agree with Master Shen's assessment..... Whatever decision you make it is better to stick with it. Less we receive the backlash of going back on our word with such a figure. If a situation arises and we are put in a place where we have to sever our relationship with Vali or the Rose Empire, we should chose to latter." - Shakko  

Master Shen and Shakko were both being very serious for once in their report and individual assessment over the situation. While the King is away he is using those around him as his council and he and the Queen seem to highly value the opinions of these two and trust the things that were seen. But...Would they really inquire us to sever our relationship with the Rose Empire if conflict were to arise between them and Rose? Why would they even assume something like that would occur in the first place and why is it being discussed now of all times?    

"…..Hmm and these are the opinions of you three? You were each there and Shen you grew up with me and even traveled together in the Great West. So you can compare this person's power to some of the geniuses and powerful figures there.... I naturally know that by going back on whatever decision I make could prove to anger this person and make us his enemy....But you believe this situation to be that severe and this person's abilities that when tasked when choosing who not to offend you would choose Vali over the entirety of Empress Rose and the hundreds of millions strong at her command? Her power that is of one of the strongest beings in Middle Earth, even in my time fighting for her....I don't believe any amount of strategy would assist in attempting to combat her....Her methods and powers are quite orthodox but no enemy in the last thousand years have been able to win a single battle on her Kingdom's soil. - King Asher  

"It's gone be a gamble either way you look at it Mikhail...." - Shen  

"Oh nothing is a gamble if you have the right knowledge Shen.... This is all hypothetical at this point but I do see the potential severity of this if Vali is someone who would eventually change his mind and ask for a lot more or offend powers we aren't able to resist then we are left with choosing to continue backing Vali or not..... But I am a firm believer in a woman's intuition....What does my future daughter in law believe about what each of these two have said? You never speak up enough and I'd like to hear what you have to say as well. Do you also agree to ally ourselves with Vali and that he can be trusted?" - Queen Asher  

The Queen then directed her line of sight and words toward me. Her voice was sharp but clear. I took a deep breath and contemplated her question before answering as I too was still slightly troubled about this person.    

I don't believe him to be a bad person however each of the points Master Shen and his Highness have brought up are reasonable factors when choosing to ally with this person as it could lead to extreme risk for the Kingdom. We don't know enough about him and he potentially has the ability to destroy us if he so desired which isn't something we had thought originally...  

'Things naturally change whenever you realize the cards your playing with don't stack up to those you are playing with. '

We knew he had amazing power but we assumed the reason he was allying himself with us was exactly the reason that Master Shen and figures such as Aldus joined our Kingdom's Knights as well.....Because they couldn't stand alone. While Master Shen more or less chose this because he received so many duel invitations from anyone on the continent looking to seek a little fame.  

Now that he is the closest and strongest Knight under King Asher's direct command. Even asking for a duel with him would be the equivalent to slapping the King in the face in his own country.  

Even if someone of strength from one of the strong factions in the Asher Kingdom were to beat Master Shen or even worse kill him, it would be the same as shaming the King's face or even attempting to weaken him directly. Who would dare try such a criminal offence and risk being beheaded for ultimately endangering the King's overall welfare and safety?  

But it's all wrong.... Now that we are aware of Vali's overwhelming ability, we could actually risk annihilation from this person if we were to anger him. This is not something we had anticipated from his original show of dominance over the forces of Aldain and Myro.  

"…. I too agree to what they both have said. Vali doesn't appear to be evil in any way... If anything perhaps what Master Shen just said should only reaffirm our faith of his kindhearted nature more than anything else. While abrasive and intimidating he also shows quite a warm and caring nature to those he loves. And just like a Dire wolf whose cub was harmed, he must have become enraged and would attack and hunt down whoever his prey might be regardless if it were even a dragon.  

...He has shown specific acts of mercy and a strong character in the face of extreme danger while not breaking. He chose the riskiest choices himself and even went out of his way to allow the majority of the demi human forces to hide far away so more could survive....Just from that, he thinks far ahead quite well actually....While it is risky you're Highness, the reward would also be quite great for this Kingdom and give it a lasting strength that could benefit Asher in an untold number of ways...From a strategic standpoint, taking Vali under our banner and with his abilities maybe in a few short years he would actually have the ability to defend Asher from even the forces of the Great West and the Legendary figures residing there as well....As you've said there isn't anyone known to have the God Slayer title, so he himself now is just as Legendary as some of the most famous figures of our time and he is willing to ally himself with us. With his abilities it's also not crazy to think in a few years he will even be on the same level as the strongest warriors in Rose. At that point he would undoubtedly repay the kindness and understanding we show now... "    

Pss..pss.pss  

As I was speaking both Master Shen and Shakko both turned and looked towards the door and seemed to continue staring towards it oddly.  

"One second...." - Master Shen  

Shen then walked over to the door and abruptly opened it and out fell two figures.  

They were the figures of a young demi human boy and girl. One had black hair while the other was from the Fusch race.    

They both looked up and appeared surprised that they had been found out. 'They must have been listening in on our conversation.'  

"Oh, I guess we had another pair of ears this whole time mph..." - Queen Asher  

Each of us then smirked upon her Highness's words as we weren't really saying anything inappropriate for their ears. We are simply now planning on how we are to move forward with this mysterious person and how to handle him in the correct way. I'm sure his and her Highness are both trying to find a way to keep their role as the authority over him while also acting benevolent.  

"Ah! I told you not to lean too close." - Sasha  

"What? They only heard you're whispering..." - Noah  

Each of the two began to stand up and look back at us but before they could say anything a loud scream came from outside.  

AHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

A loud scream came from outside and within the next second the young girl started sprinting towards the source of the scream.  

Each of us looked at one another and decided to go look what was the cause but just as we were about to take a step out of the bedroom what felt like a hammer falling from the heavens and crashing into our heads. Our whole bodies began to receive the chills as a very powerful presence began to envelop each of us causing our hearts to pace faster and faster.    

Hearing some of the others gulp we along with the small youth walked slowly towards the direction of the sound.  

So many thoughts were racing through my mind right now.    

We each stepped outside and felt as if all our skin were being pinched. My face was even tingling just looking at the powerful figures who stood before us.  

While each of the children ran towards Vali and the child in his arms we couldn't even move. It was not that we were shocked by this strong power we can each feel coming off of Vali and those with him, but that Vali currently was staring straight back towards us.  

His eyes were wide but his face was emotionless. It looked like the eyes of a snake just as it were about to lash out and devour a helpless rabbit. It wasn't a look you would choose to greet an ally or the King of a nation. It was truly one that sent goosebumps down my spine.  

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Vali's POV:  

"Ei..i..i...uh..." - Tierra  

"Ah..Ugh Alpha....what's this? A monster perhaps? It wears clothes too." - Alderon  

Walking up towards me Alderon was holding a small dripping wet figure with dirt covering its face and hands.  

Once we appeared back at the cabin we were immediately welcomed with a screechingly loud scream.    

'Poor thing... she must have been doing something outside when I warped our small party back to our cabin in the woods. I see a bucket on the ground and can tell she must have spilt it on herself and fell down.'  

"Eh..eh...ah! Masterrrr!" - Tierra  

Still shaking, once Tierra opened her eyes and saw my figure she started flailing her arms and legs around widly trying to free herself. Once Alderon had let her down she ran with tears in her eyes and reached out for my leg and grabbed onto me.  

But just as she held on she immediately backed away and started to shake again while looking down and apologizing repeatedly.  

"I'm sorry!..I'm sorry! I … I didn't mean to touch your clothes...I just I..." - Tierra  

'Scaredy cat.....'  

I went over and put my hand on her head and started to scratch behind her ear again which seems to calm her down some. When her ears started to fall to the sides she like always closed her eyes and kept her hands to her face making a short purring sound.  

"I'm...I'm very happy your home master hehe...nnnnnn...." - Tierra  

"Thanks Tierra I needed that hmp...Looks like we need to get you cleaned up before dinner huh."    

"Oh..I...I'm sorry I got your clothes so dirty master I'll..I'll go clean them right away!...eh...nnnnn....." - Tierra  

I started to scratch behind her pointy ears some more and for whatever reason this seemed to relax her just like the small cat my siblings would always play with back home. I reminded her their just clothes and their not even mine their hers but she seemed to almost ignore me from what I was doing to her ears right now. 'It seems to have the same effect as back home....'  

I could then hear the voices of several others exited the cabin.  

"Elyria? Elyria!!!" - Sasha  

Just then Sasha then darted from inside the cabin and jumped towards her.  

"...Vali! You're all back! " - Lily  

" Vali's here? I ...woh...." - Noah  

Looking over I saw the figure of Lily run through the several Annunakes and Pixies and came and wrapped her arms around Elyria and I.  

Noah however seemed shocked looking directly at each of the large white wolves standing beside me. Out beside him were Lucy and her two friends and each of them were staring wide eyed at each of us but their eyes were more or less glued to 5 particular figures who were here.    

Even now I can feel the powerful battle aura exuding off of Adimar, Bifrost, Cari and Fenrir. They are quite strong but Adimar's aura alone is enough to completely dominate over each of ours combined it seems.    

It's almost a similar feeling of when I met Alysteir for the first time. Even in a crowded room just the presence from her gave my skin the sensation of being poked with a small needle when she looked at me.

Apparently Fighting Spirit when high enough can act in the same ways as Battle Aura does by itself and the higher it is the more life and death battles one has survived against an overwhelmingly stronger opponent. Adimar's Fighting Spirit before being changed must have been pretty high cause it even causes my face muscles to twitch sometimes.... Even with those with no aptitude for sensing one's presence would be able to feel some of the power stemming off each of us plain as day.    

While it is similar to an intimidation skill and can even shut down the movements of those a third my level when in combat. I suppose we could use our abilities to mask our presence from others but that would actually take more energy just to sustain so this seems to be permanent for now until we find some way to mask it.  

"Look Noah! Elyria and Ari brought Vali back! " - Lily  

Noah then slowly started to walk through the tall Annunakes and as he got closer I was surprised when he came up and hugged Elyria and I right next to his sister.  

He didn't say much but I could tell he was happy we had made it back too. I then noticed the small, muddy neko girl staring eagerly towards each of us so I asked if she wanted to join in on the group hug.  

Before she could come up with some reason not Elyria had already lifted up her arms to invite her in....  

'I can at least do good by those that are close to me. These kids have gone through things I....hah...probably even worse than I've ever had to go through. Maybe when I find Kaylan she can have some friends here too if she doesn't already... I can't protect them forever but I can take care of them while I'm here. Give them something we both don't really have....Hmph even this little neko purring into my leg right now I'll probably have to dote on quite a bit until she can learn to trust anyone really....Heh, some Dark Lord I am.'  

I admit, it's not the life I'd thought I'd have coming to this magical world but....I can at least do this much.  

Ari and Elyria were both looking up at me and smiling and just then I felt that in all honesty, this life right now in a new world I came to.....Isn't so bad.  

------------------------------------------------------  

When we all came down from the Black Palace on floor 52 we were met with a swarm of flying pixies with Cari at the helm.

When they all surrounded us she immediately wrapped her arms around her older sister and then flew up and did the same for me.

"I knew it...I knew you would each be ok. I'm so happy each of you are safe." - Cari

After we were met with hugs and embraces from each of the Pixies not long after did everyone else arrive and greet us warmly upon our quick return.

After filling in some of the details to the other leaders it was arranged that all of the leaders and influential people of this Dungeon will meet and discuss the future later this evening together.

"Wait...Where's Ari?"  

"....Don't wo..rry Vali.....I'm...coming...." - Ari

I looked towards the direction of the sound and saw riding on top of Fenrir's back was Ari followed by a large swarm of pixies. Each of their faces were beaming in smiles and barrelling towards us

"Vali! You're back!" - Cosmia

Ari was holding tight onto Fenrir but now saw she was wearing a bright red dress which was different than before. Cosmia then told me they gave it to her as  something to wear but judging from their attitudes I think they were just trying to get her to like them.....'Probably trying to get her to like them more than the Annunakes too it seems....'

As each of the Pixies tried to barge their way in front of the other races and greet each of us Fenrir passed right through with Ari trying to reach out towards me in her bright red and puffy dress.

I rolled my eyes and picked up Ari and decided it was high time my mother and I got back to the cabin and see what everyone is doing. 'I still need to talk to that King.'

"Ari..You're dress is so lovely, you look so pretty! " - Elyria

"Thanks...Elyri..a...." - Ari

With that she shyly looked up to me and asked how she looked. After remaining silent for a few breaths I was simply enjoying the moment that seemed so familiar to me....

"Hmph...Like a princess...."  

Ari brought her hands to her face and her eyes grew large while starting to lose focus as if no longer even looking at me. I noticed my mother's tails started to shift back and forth while looking towards us and smiled.

"Oh ah!....Um...Than..thank you....Oh you're neck..lace is back..." - Ari

After Ari looked back up at me she put her hands on my chest and noticed their dangling was the same necklace that was given to me by my mother. The one she made however had been completely destroyed during the battle.  

"Yah...What do you think if I give you this necklace you think you can make me another using this ?"

"Of...ofc ourse I would...If..if you want..ed.....I'd...do any..thing for you..." - Ari

Ari looked down blushing and my mother smiling towards us, I felt as if all my fears in this world could be washed away. They held me together in ways I couldn't possibly do myself and even though I came here trying to no become attached to this place...I can't deny how big a part of me they have already become without me even realizing. No doubt it would be a much harder place to live in without them.

'This is my new family.......This is my new world.....This is my new life.'

"Well...What are we waiting for Vali. Let's go home...." - Elyria

------------------------------------------------------------  

"We're so happy you're all home we thought something bad had happened." - Lilly  

"Mphmph...Well we couldn't have done it without little Ari here saving the day and helping us all to return safely." - Elyria  

To Elyria's comment each of them showed eyes of awe.  

"Wow!...Really!" - Lilly  

"Ari did? " - Noah  

"That's right. There were giants, and flying monsters that blotted out the light from the sun and tried to eat us all.....But Ari here's the reason we all made it back home in one piece...."  - Elyria

Ari continued to wag her tail in my arms and all the kiddos couldn't help but widen their eyes in amazement.  

"...Really Elyria?" - Sasha  

"Mphmph...That's right. It was all very scary but like I said to each of you before we would bring our family back together..." - Elyria  

"Wow so scary." - Lily  

"No way..." - Noah  

"…...." - Sasha  

"Nya, Ari you r..really saved Master?" - Tierra  

Each of the kiddos simply couldn't imagine it and were staring brightly towards Ari who was trying hard not to smile too much.  

"Mhm! It...so... sc...ary....but we... brought him home!" - Ari  

"Wow...." - Tierra  

"So cool." - Noah  

"Good job Ari!" - Lily  

Each of the kiddos continued to chat with one another and my mom happily when the warm glow that was constantly surrounding myself began to grow more and more.  

"Vali! Who are each of these people? Are they our family too? " - Cari  

"Hey look! They're smaller than us!" - Jade  

"I like them!" - Aurora  

Just then a small white pixie with rainbow colored hair walked up with a bright smile on her face and approached all those who had came around us.    

As I was about to answer her I saw the figures of the King and Queen had exited the cabin followed by their three royal knights......  

"…....."    

Without saying anything I looked at each of them and could see they were looking back at me with wide eyes as well. Either that's due to my new aura ability or these three knights have already told the King everything.........'It's something that has made me uncomfortable ever since I heard it from Sting. It's not a good thing for people to know your trump cards as I'd be the equivalent as a magician with no more tricks. With all of the powers that have lived in this world for hundreds of years I can't hope to exist if all my secrets get out'

Each of them seeing me eyeballing them didn't move a muscle. They seemed nervous about something.....  

"Hey mother, introduce everyone I'll be back in a moment."    

I handed Ari to Elyria and she started to introduce everyone we brought with us back from the dungeon, if it's just getting everyone's names it shouldn’t be so hard without me around.    

Even though this was the first time some of the pixies and Annunakes had ever stepped out of the dungeon in their lives and each seemed to be unable to look at a single blade of grass without excitement. But when they each saw me talking to some of the slave children who live with us they seemed to have only showed their focus towards them, even the Annunakes.  

Taking this opportunity I approached the five individuals in my sight whenever a loud voice from the side of the house interrupted me.  

"Vali! So you're finally back? You seem different somehow... Who...WOW! Who are all of those demi humans you've brought with you? I've....I've never seen demi humans that glowed before... Their wings are so beautiful! How come you didn't tell me you knew such amazing demi humans?" - Princess Lucy  

Running over to me and acting happy to see me while also seeming more interested in the flying pixies who were hovering around my mother. The small elf and neko girl next to her both showed an equal interest as I'm sure no one's ever seen a species quite like them before.

I looked down and before I had an opportunity to reply the Queen had told Lucy and her two demi human friends to go play and introduce herself as they needed to talk with me.  

I showed no signs of disagreeing and continued to think over just how I am going to handle this situation. The lively princess strutted past me while admiring the frighteningly tall white wolves standing next to the small almost childlike magical race that with their wings almost look to be angelic themselves.  

When I looked back towards the King, the Queen was cordial and said how fortunate it was for us to have a safe journey back. Before getting on to business about helping them out with their assassination attempt back home they are trying to use kind words to further our bonds.... however I need to know right now if this is a person I can place my entire trust in or else the lives of everyone will hang in the balance.    

From here on out everything with these races I have already decided to ally myself with if they too are willing. We will combine our strengths and stand side by side from here on out so it is no longer a deal with just me.  

Even with our strength and numbers we couldn't stand the combined attack of some of the major powers of this world let alone this own continent at the moment. Even as we are now I doubt we could even fight back the combined forces of an entire Kingdom without taking enough casualties that would potentially weaken us to the point annihilation would only be a matter of time....  

'I hate how much relies on this alliance with this country but if word got out of the emergence of strong and rare demi human races out of nowhere, there would probably be quite a few interested parties who would probably attempt something no different than what happened to my mother's clan who were completely wiped out and scattered over the vast reaches of the continent. What's stopping us from being another Elf country that we just currently don't have the foundation to defend continuously against other Kingdoms right now. Sure in some time we would be able to stand alone but right now forming an alliance with a Human Kingdom will grant us that amount of time we need.

This King even has some relation with one of the Four Great Empires and has shown signs of being tolerant and loving to his own Kingdom. He isn't in a war with the Elves and they even seem to have some cities and villages where demi humans aren't only free but in positions of some authority. Which shows even if slavery exists in their country it isn't a unanimous feeling of hate towards other races....'If anything this is probably the best bet I could hope to have, I simply have to follow my gut. But first I have to be sure.....'  

Following them back into the cabin it was only the six of us including Alderon, Grayfia, Akino and Adimar each standing behind me and were going to listen in on our discussion. Adimar and Akino have both already shared some of the information concerning the situation outside of the dungeon to Malfius and the other race leaders. Each of the Elite Annunakes and elders are aware of this as well and had asked to sit in on our meeting with the human king from beyond the dungeon. Since they already know practically all of my secrets it doesn't matter if they are here.    

As I neared the kitchen table still without saying a single word yet, I was still going over in my head how to approach this. King Asher turned around, straightened his back and with a soft smile nodded his head in allowing me to greet him.  

As I went to bow, which is probably the only custom I'm aware of performing when in presence of a King, a large and heavy hand landed on my shoulder and pulled me back in one quick motion.  

Alderon who was standing only right behind me gripped my shoulder and shook his head. This caused the Ashers to make a confusing look as the tall and masculine form of Alderon who was carrying a great sword that was even bigger than he was on his back with no effort at all.  

"Do not ever bow to the leader of a foreign nation...." - Adimar  

"...Alpha, you will never see us bow to any other than our Alpha and the God Wolf himself. So do not let any of the pack see you bowing to a leader of another group, it shows submission." - Alderon  

Other than having to know every single Elkia by name and being at the birth of every member of the pack, this is just another interesting fact in this new role I've found myself in. Adimar has been helping me a lot and has seemed to show no dissatisfaction in submitting to me in the slightest which even now makes me curious having such a warrior spirit such as he does. '...Sigh....but I have much more pressing things to worry over right now.'  

The King brushed off the situation and changed his original nervous expression and smiled with his eyes closed  

"It is a pleasure to see you're safe return Vali. The God's are truly shining down on us this day and singing songs of praise at your heroic efforts that have truly saved the......" - King Asher  

"They told you......."    

twtich....  

"…....." - King Asher  

' I knew it.... With that one sentence I saw the brief flinch in the King's attitude and knew these three knights had already divulged everything.... I knew they were looking at me oddly before. Shit! It wasn't due to the aura or even because they were gobsmacked about us surviving our clash with a fallen god.....They looked at me much differently than before ...I've seen it before, it was fear.'  

Each of them were even showing signs of perspiration running down their foreheads and shook lightly.  

They know I eat hearts and what's worse is they know I obtain skills through this method. They probably see me as some savage devil in human form. The reason this isn't something I would want others to know besides all of the obvious reason, from any outside perspective I couldn't imagine what they must think.    

I quickly thought of all the endless possibilities this small problem could ultimately bring me as if I could see them each following a sudden domino effect.  

'I can just see it now... Some dark cloaked, white haired freak holding a scythe and eats hearts. Regardless of whatever I'd say no one would look at me as a force for good. I'd immediately be branded a fiend, who practices forbidden magic. Until they looked at my skill list they wouldn't believe a word I say and then right when they read the word Demonic I'll be labeled as an enemy of all humans. The Churches would probably even send their holy warriors to come and hunt me down in the name of abolishing evil or something stupid.....And if I fought back in anyway I would be labeled as the villain and only increase in bringing more followers to the cause of by stopping a demon uprising in the East. They would send many to hunt me down and once all my secrets are out some kingdom would probably want to capture and dissect me for study....And why not my flesh essentially regenerates and my bones are practically unbreakable. My body itself could be considered invaluable materials and others would wish to know how they could acquire such ability thinking it were a forbidden spell or demonic technique..... '  

"Why Vali, whatever do you mean exactly. Of course our royal guard would fill us in on all that occurred during their absence....Is it possible you assumed they wouldn't tell us about your bravery in the face of something as intimidating as a being from beyond this realm entirely.Truly a heroic feet, you are going to become quite the legendary figure and someday soon all of Middle Earth will know your name. We are honored to have been given the opportunity to form a bond with you and your fearsome demi human army that will surely be an undeniable force within the entire continent. " - Queen Asher  

"…...."    

'…........'  

As I continued to think over the Queen's words I was still momentarily speechless as she hit the nail right on the head. 'Did she just say all of that on purpose as if knowing my worst fears?'  

Those Fomorians are still running loose outside the dungeon walls and were headed North. If the head east they will undoubtedly destroy any and everything in their path including Asher and Myro. If they go west they will likely run into the Elve's Sacred Forest and their race would meet with a calamity. If they just continue to head further and further north, then the Vampire race would be affected as well. If each of these races are met with a disaster and are forced to flee their homelands I can already see a disaster approaching.....When word gets to the Central Continent it's only a matter of time before people start popping up looking for answers and more importantly what spoils came with it....My greatest fear right now is that word got out of a high level dungeon and some of the strongest figures in the Human Kingdoms will all converge on one location.....  

The five of them didn't say a word and the room remained quiet enough to hear the laughter and loud chatter coming from outside.  

With a deep breath I made my choice. Even with the effects that this darkness could somehow have over my emotional state and my affinity being dangerously too high without learning control over it this class change, I feel has almost now given me more resolve somehow.  

"You...Take off your mask. "    

"Eh....uhh..." - Shakko  

"…..." - Queen Asher  

"…." - Shen, Cassandra  

Each of them seemed taken back over my sudden request or in this case, demand. I pointed at Shakko and told him to take off his mask with a tone that meant I wasn't kidding. I skipped the pleasantries of re addressing the Queen after she spoke to me and skipped straight to the point.  

"Why ugh, why does that matter Vali?" - King Asher  

"Yah, kid if ya think ol Shakko here is a spy or something. You can rest assured he's not." - Shen  

"I'm not worried about that...I've made the decision to lay it all out on the table for you people. A show of trust. No games...Anything you wish to ask I'll answer truthfully and openly to give each of you some peace of mind and so we can hopefully understand each other more. This will be for your ears and your ears alone and mustn't share it with anyone else or consider our relationship terminated... You are each now aware of a particular ability of mine that I'm sure you could fathom would bring me endless difficulties if word of it got out. I am placing my trust in you people and that entails the lives of more than just my own. If we are going to form a mutually beneficial and long lasting relationship together we can no longer keep anything from the other. So from this moment forward we can only move forward together or not at all and that means no secrets from the other....That means take... Off.. Your... Mask!...."    

I continued to stare towards Shakko and he understood the meaning and slowly reached up to the white mask covering his face and pulled it off.....  

As the tall and slender man finally removed his mask what lied beneath it was a dark brown haired man roughly in his late twenties. He had a slightly mean looking face but looked very dignified with sharp eyes staring back at me. He had a very thin goatee that sort of pointed upward across his lip but didn't look to be even over a decade older than me.

"Now I can see your eyes.... I know we have a lot to discuss and under the circumstances we were never able to finish our last discussion about a possible alliance between our groups. As you can probably assume I didn't want to say too much at first simply because we had too many obstacles to cross before we could stand here today. But now we finally have an opportunity but each side has just as much to risk at allying with the other and we won't be able to move forward if we cannot trust the other......You don't agree? Let me explain then."    

Seeing their expressions change I brought up the situation from our perspectives.  

" You wouldn't be here right now if your Kingdom weren't facing a crisis currently. Not just externally but I'd be willing to bet that you yourself don't hold complete control over your own Kingdom's forces. Now some strong factions within your walls are probably taking opportunity of war to remove you from your position....You wouldn't have left behind the walls and comfort of your armies if you did..... While you yourself have your own  hangups and possible problems with bringing in a large demi human due to relations with humans and demi humans not being so good. Just after these races have finally escaped living in a prison world for thousands of years you are asking them with their newly found freedom to willingly jump into bed with you considering your own current state right now? I'm sure you have your own concerns about me as well. I wouldn't blame you, you wouldn't be a very wise King if you didn't. But we have just as much to lose as you do. "    

After my few points I presented, the faces of each of the King and Queen changed immediately. 'It's not a very difficult thing to guess. This sort of thing just happens in this sort of setting. I can't imagine the political minefield of a bunch of greedy and powerful noble families. Each of the Knights too started to give some troubled looks but Master Shin and Shakko's sharp eyes didn't waver in the slightest.  

To break the silence I spoke up and presented his majesty to speak his mind.  

"I say in the spirit of opening up I guess I'll let his Highness speak his mind first and get off his chest whatever it is he wishes know......"    

The King didn't avoid eye contact in the slightest and continued to peer at me as if he were staring into my very soul. I'm sure he was contemplating on whether to fully go forward and trust me or if he should simply turn tail and walk out the front door right now and never look back.    

He obviously cares for his country but the fact that he's here lets me know there are already a lot of problems going on in Asher than on the surface. If an assassination attempt was made within his own Kingdom it's highly probably there are strong figures not only attacking them from outside but secretly scheming inside as well. They would hold high positions and strong power too and it's definitely not a one person job so that let's me know the King does not have complete control over his court if he weren't here in the first place. 'If I'm honest with myself dealing with a few greedy scheming old nobles would probably be better than the problems that could come with allying myself with any of the other Kings in this continent. I just have to bite the bullet on this one and play my hand. Hopefully, my gut feeling about this man is right and someone I can trust.  

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After a long time of not saying anything the king's beard twitched and he spoke while never once breaking eye contact.  

"….Who is the God you worship?" - King Asher  

The King not wasting anytime and asking his deepest concerns without any more formalities like you would with someone you're close with.  

"….That's ah...."  

"You said anything. I have to trust you as well as earn your own am I correct." - King Asher  

With a serious look he continued to not break eye contact as I could see with the heart consumption he's probably got thousands of wild theories by now....  

'Damn why did I agree to this. Literally the one thing I didn't want to answer as I was instructed that was something that I shouldn't ever divulge. It almost always doesn't work out well for the Champion in the end. Pft...and with a god like Loki as my backer I can already see a mountain of problems. But at this point I need this alliance with the Ashers to flourish. They are a Kingdom of a population of over a 120,000 citizens and close to 55,000 troops not including local guilds and factions. They hold a powerful position on this continent with 32 large and strongly founded cities. If we are an elite force of a Human Kingdom and not some rogue nation then we might actually gain that much needed time to build up territory properly.'  

"…..Fine. While I don't worship him the God who granted me his blessing......is Loki."    

With my answer everyone's eyes raised and looked astonished. The King seemed to have nodded his head as if  he was accepting this answer and possibly signifying this Kingdom might not be on terrible relations with this god. It's not like I've seen any of the relationships of the religions in Kingdoms and other gods to be honest but I couldn't even fathom the legends or stories of Loki in this world. There are probably even Gods and Divine beasts I've never even heard of for that matter.  

Each of them seemed to mumble to themselves and connected this with Hjökk and believed it to be fact. Before I could say anything again the Queen then fired another question at me in a similarly direct way as her husband.  

"And what is he like exactly?" - Queen Asher  

Thinking that she is asking this question just to test me I answered honestly.    

"Annoying, narcissistic and yet at the same time has a genius level intellect he uses I feel for the soul purpose at times of pissing me off for his own amusement."  

Listening to me ranting off and complaining shouldn't have been the right way to go about things. But I'm still a bit hung up about the Dark Lord thing....regardless of how much it has helped me....'Ughh.....It just works out so well he had to have set this up. That I would have to wear a mask. Hold a creepy ass weapon. Oh wait that's not all hey Vali why not also take a title just incase everyone you'll ever meet didn't already have enough reasons to label you a walking, talking comic book villain. Perhaps next you'll ask me to get a tattoo on my forehead that says 'Come kill me'. '  

"….." - Everyone  

Even the Annunakes behind me did not expect me to give such an answer when concerning the trickster god I have undoubtedly become too familiar with since coming to this world.    

"AhaHa!....I guess that does fit the stories doesn't it. Back when I was young, in one of the sacred cities of the Holy Empire it was said that Loki had defaced a statue of one of their high gods. What made the priests so upset is that the weight and durability of the statue had made it become almost indestructible ....It's actually said the Holy Empire was never able to destroy it so they could only hide it away from the public eye to stop the shaming of the one they worshipped....To this day no one is allowed to speak of it so it is a tale that has become a legend of sorts hehe..." - King Asher  

'Oh for fuck sake..... Thanks Loki I guess there's one Empire I'd probably be public enemy number one in.'  

Watching me merely shake my head as if I didn't have any words to say the queen tried to cover her mouth not to laugh.  

"Mphmph....Indeed he speaks no differently than the other blessed children of the Gods I've had the privilege of speaking with over my years.... They either don't know much more than what is already known or have some big complaint to give. If you had spoke differently I mightn't have believed you. " - Queen Asher  

"Well what can I say he leaves  a lasting impression on ya."    

"Mph....Indeed. I guess we can stop testing you." - Queen Asher  

From there the tensions dulled a bit and the King and I continued to ask one another about particular concerns or wants that he had concerning our futures. He also asked another interesting question.    

"Are you human?....." - King Asher  

Seeing my reaction he asked because to him the possibility of me being something else is entirely plausible. He also wanted to know of why my eyes could turn black as that is something that in this world is symbolic of the demon race for having.  

Each of the knights faces too looked curious as to this question.  

"Ah, that kinda hurt a little more than I thought it would....Hah...well. Yes I am...Well.... Lately, I've actually been having some doubts about that. From what Loki believes, my father was a Demon. I don't know, never met him... so that makes me half human I guess."    

Each of their faces after hearing that started to change. The moment the term Demon was spoken everyone of them straightened up. The Annunakes behind me however started to move their heads oddly looking towards the other.

"Then that Fusch woman whom you call your mother? " - Queen Asher  

"I guess you can say I'm adopted."    

"I see.....Hmmm. " - King Asher  

We continued to talk for quite a while and we got to learn quite a bit about the other. They are now up to speed and even learned the reason and origin of how I began to consume the hearts of those I've killed.  

Oddly enough they didn't seem as weirded out by it as I had anticipated. I can't even imagine how Kaylan is going to take this if I ever wind up telling her about it but it's nice to not feel rejected by those who have found out about it.  

After they had realized I was someone with a violent vendetta against the Demon race and answering each of their questions each of them came to accept the answers I gave.  

The King more or less just seemed amazed that demons were on this continent at all without his knowledge but I didn't give him any indication of my origins. Something tells me that isn't something to tell a group of medieval times people I'm from another world....Well in this world they'd probably believe such an odd story as that.  

After I showed them my skill screen it confirmed it for them that I wasn't a wolf in disguise and had no intention of becoming their enemy. With just the skill screen alone it proved I was Loki's Champion and justified all my earlier words and recent actions. By doing this they wouldn't need to see my Status screen, which I'm sure would just raise more questions, as now they would believe everything I say to be truth....'The fact that this world's status can't ascertain my age might be due to the fact that I'm not local and perhaps due to my birth into this world being completely abnormal. Loki! You really made this entire process difficult for me!'  

By showing them what most would choose to hide the King and Queen as well as their 3 royal guard's entire atmospheres began to change and grow more calm while looking back towards me.  

'I can assume what they must have thought.... I mean to a King with the black eyes, scythe and snacking on bodily organs are probably like giant red flags slapping him in the face. Who in their right mind wouldn't be weary of someone with the Dark Lord class. I'm honestly surprised they didn't flee back to their Kingdom before I returned home. '  

But hopefully with this we can finally make the preparations for what all of this has been aimed towards. Now if anything were to happen and I was outed for my skills as some enemy of the Human Kingdom, I now have the word of a King with the authority to speak up and not just be the words of a branded criminal.  

With this moment we were already laying the foundations for a potentially brighter future for both our groups. Now that they can start to trust us, they would also be more likely not keep anything from me and even stand beside us should any of my fears come to pass.  

----------------------------------------------------------  

A short amount of time passed yet we each had started to learn quite a bit about each other. They told me quite a bit about their nation of Asher and even filled me in on some of their internal struggles up to even areas of trade they specialize in.

"So what are your plans for your territory. Any specialties or particular areas of trade you wish to do business in? It's always important to appease to a particular trade your village can specialize in to appease the merchants. It is the only way for your territory to grow profitable. While your cooking skills could sure grant you the favor of the nobles, you could probably even open up a famous restaurant in the inner cities. This won't be enough to support your territory either as expenses add up quite a lot during the first few years. Starting out and settling new land can show to be difficult. You will need a means to make your land profit and flourish if it is ever to stand the test of time. " - King Asher  

"I thank the King for his words...Although I'm not too worried about trade issues or money. We have the ability to self sustain and in all honesty your highness...We probably have the ability to feed the entire country of Asher perhaps for the rest of its lifetime with just us alone. We also have enough money and resources to hopefully speed up these early difficulties of developing new land and solving them much quicker. That much we can handle easily and doesn't require much thought at the moment.... Our immediate course of action should however be in building and hopefully incorporating a free or cheap school system while also building up our territory. From there we can raise the education of all those within the area and even assist in helping other species learn to speak and write in the Human language."    

After I spoke each of them showed such odd looks they almost appeared to think I had been joking. Cassandra and the Queen cocked their head to the side as if I couldn't have been serious and the King who seemed to be confused by this as well.  

"You believe your first course of action is to supplement a free school system? Ughh....well... "  - King Asher  

"Don't you believe there are perhaps more pressing matters to attend to instead? As my husband has stated, becoming founded in a particular trade can help in the new land's developments and give reasons for merchants to travel there and do business with you. If you need something like a school why not just have us send some of the scholars from the Capital to come and teach some of the leaders and others who would operate businesses for you? Why waste so much money to pay for education of the masses and to keep a school active in a starting town? We have a few Academies and Guilds you and your people can visit in the inner cities to learn skills or trades if that is what you require. We have an exceptional Academy that trains in many Classes in the capital you might be interested in visiting... It can all be handled rather simply." - Queen Asher  

The King and Queen don’t seem to understand the problem. The education in this part of the world is practically non existent. Only nobles or those with lots of money can actually attend a school in some of the inner cities of Asher and the public itself suffers for it. It costs a lot of money to pay for these scholars and teachers that would teach these high officials children sword techniques and even how to study magic if they had the aptitude for it.  

"I won't begin to say I know more about settling new land and where my time and effort should be spent while delegating each difficulty that could arise. I however see an inherent problem on this continent and Asher seems to be victim to that as well....It is only when we provide education and power to the masses that your nation will start to grow and flourish in ways that aren't just to continue existing but to change in ways you couldn't even dream of.....Let me ask you your Highness...What is the job of a King?"    

"...Well, it is to his people. To rule justly and honorably so that we may all flourish happily and unified together." - King Asher  

"Well said....The duty of a King is to his people. The money it would take to cost is meaningless if you think of the investment this would be in those very people you rule over....There's an old proverb from where I'm from...'Give a man a fish, you can feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you could feed him for a lifetime.'…"    

To my words I could tell this particular phrase must have been completely foreign to them but hopefully that can see a reasoning behind it.  

"A man with no education but an interesting way of thinking might just know how to feed himself and his family never given the opportunities to learn anything else. A hard worker but maybe someone who had the potential but not the opportunity to simply show it. Educate the man and stimulate his mind and maybe he could learn how to farm. Learns how to store and save and in turn gathers a surplus so he starts to sell what he and his family cannot eat. Invents a tool that makes work easier and starts to sell it to the public that could change and benefit the nation. With that alone the Kingdom gets to tax that as it is a trade is it not....Citizens who would have never been given the opportunity just from learning to read, write and do basic math would help them in the art of business to not be taken advantage of by those who do. While many from where your from might think by keeping money out of the pockets of the public keeps it in your own is wrong....It is only by giving every citizen the opportunity to succeed will the gold in your own pockets begin to weigh you down. Those who would have never had money in the first place will begin to buy new luxuries and tastes benefitting local business throughout every city in your Kingdom...It's like basic economics.....And by doing this you simply have to allow those who aren't educated the opportunity. "    

"........." - Everyone  

Everyone mulled over my words not saying a word for a few breaths. Shakko smirked while Cassandra looked down to the floor and was going over each the words I had said. While the Queen made an initially troubled face to my disagreeing with her after I had spoke she too seemed to quietly contemplate my words. The King was the first to speak up and seemed to give me a look as if he had never even once given this idea a thought.  

"You have an exceptional gift of philosophy and a beautiful talent with words Vali. 'Give a man to fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man and feed him for a lifetime....' Such exceptional words that hold such profound and selfless wisdom...Hah, that is quite rare to see in those in such times.....I must say Vali I had never once thought of doing something like this but you have given this King a great deal to think about this day. Heh, you should be able to walk through the fields of jagged rock and daggers that is the royal court with ease with your talent of the tongue....These words you have given me have reaffirmed my judgment in trusting you. You are one who thinks of others over himself and has the resolve to stand before even the threat of annihilation and not break in your convictions......Even with all your power you show a nature that enjoys serving others which is one I have never seen in this long life of mine in this world....I could only be so lucky to have had a son quite like you Vali......I just have one more question for you Vali." - King Asher  

With a deep breath the King continued to look back at me with troubled eyes.

"That little demi human you saved that day in Aldain. What relation is she to you? I'm sorry but I find this matter increasingly pressing in my heart. A man willing to do so much for a stranger is rarely seen, and this world is truly an unkind one. Would you even be willing to start wars with other nations over other things you might find there? I'm sorry for being so abrupt but it is still a question that plagues me." - King Asher  

To the King's words all I could do was smirk and lower my eyes.  

"...I won't promise you if I were to see atrocious acts performed in front of me I'd be able to stay my hands.....I honestly don't even believe I have the ability to either......."  

'.......'  

Each of them saw my entire mood change as if I myself couldn't tell them as I honestly didn't know myself....This world is full of such things, how could I ever promise to stand and watch.  

I watched Kaylan and Hayden being taken away from me....How could I allow another brother, a father, mother to go through the same torment. What right would someone with power like mine to just watch ever hope to obtain more?  

Sighing quietly to myself I bit my lip as I just couldn't find a way to describe the emotions currently unsettling in my heart thinking what was done to Ari in this man's Kingdom.... 'This King's ways of thinking I can completely understand. It's me who is in the foreign land and I can't hold them all accountable for morales that don't exist in this world but...If we are to ally and stand next to this nation...This is non negotiable!'  

I lowered my eyes and stared back into the King's eyes which caused him to twitch at the look I had given him.  

"...There's a saying where I come from, noblesse oblige. Have you ever heard of it?"  

To my words each of the 5 showed a different expression than normal and almost looked surprised. Mostly the King, Queen and Cassandra seemed simply perplexed but from my tone they seemed to not know where I was going with it.

"Ah...So you were a noble after all. You know of this term." - Queen Asher

"No...I'm not actually. Quite the opposite really....The believed meaning for this is those with power...Almost have the inherent responsibility to help those around them who don't....If you were holding a sword and saw a mugger trying to kill an innocent bystander on the street would you not attempt to use your power to help them?.....Why are my actions so different? Hah...Aldain crossed my bottom line a long time ago. There I have witnessed.....Hah....such horrid things. And I can't honestly say that Asher is completely innocent either....let me tell you something the reason you're probably having trouble controlling your factions and knowing who to trust in your Kingdom is difficult because you have sat on the fence for so long...Don't look at me like you haven't....Those who have become powerful have been left unchecked by you in your Kingdom primarily for this reason and I'm sure because of this they have been getting away with who knows what....Listen I know you haven't been spoken to much like this before but I'm not going to be someone who sugar coats things for you either as I think we all need a kick in the pants every now and then......"  

I told the King that as a Vassal I understand I have certain responsibilities and ways of conduct in public but when we're alone I hope we can speak freely.  

To all my words I could tell with my random guess into his internal power struggles had granted massive weight to my words now. He had looked at me wondering how I could have ever guessed such things and didn't have much to say. 'It's not uncommon I'm sure but if this King was willing to escape with only a small number of guards to come to a stranger for aid then that means that he couldn't trust those with power in the Kingdom or he wouldn’t have traveled here at the first sign of trouble....'

"...The problem is someone should already be doing this instead of me. I'm not out to start wars or conflicts. But how can you as a King over each of your citizens be ok with walking through the streets of your own Kingdom seeing children wrapped in chains. Thrown in cages left for dead. If you can honestly stand there right now, if you could walk your own streets of all your cities with pride then how can you say you’re a King who cares for the suffering of his people. All of his people....Knowing that simply by a few sins from one's parents even your own children could reach such a nightmarish fate....I can understand prisoners who fought in wars against you, criminals or those with debt...But innocents stolen from their homes, children whose parents were slaughtered are ok?.....

You have to stand for something and it seems like you have been waiting to do that for some reason or you wouldn't have chosen to come to me at the first hour of need....am I right? Maybe if you finally start putting your foot down and standing for a particular something then you can start to get a real hold over those in your Kingdom. A King that is kind but also one who punishes those who break the laws equally of status. Your people won't rebel they will sing praises of your name for being just but also fair..... A good ruler must constantly search for ways to better his Kingdom and equally his people. And if this alliance is turning into a 'We' conversation, then WE will no longer have such actions be allowed on our soil ever again...."    

After I spoke the King and the rest remained silent for quite a while. I could feel the warm breath of the four Annunakes behind me who still stayed silent during our negotiations.

The King continued looking towards me and the corners of his grayish blonde beard started to slightly twitch upward.

"Hmph...Indeed. The words of one who speaks to the almighty Gods are truly thought provoking. Hmph not only do you have a strong body but also an even stronger mind. I have taken your words with me and cannot deny any of them at all.....Hmm. I am truly humbled by your words Vali, thank you." - King Asher  

"I think it is time dear...hmphmph...." - Queen Asher  

As the Queen came up and put her hand on the King's arm and smiled brightly. Even for a mature woman you could still see she was quite the delicate beauty and held the appearance of someone with a sharp mind as well. Though she hasn't spoke much I could tell she was equally as sharp as the King and he seemed to value her opinion unlike.  

"I think so as well. Shen bring me my sword....Heh we will obviously have to have this ceremony at a later date for all those of the Royal Court to be present but will only be a formality really, as I can Knight you right here and now....Vali. Do you hereby decry from that from henceforth you will ride under my banner. Come to my aid and place the life of Asher before your own. " - King Asher  

The King grabbed a large brightly silver long sword with a golden handle with the head of a dragon coming off the hilt. I agreed and he placed the sword over my shoulders and smiled.  

"Do you solemnly swear....To protect the safety of my Kingdom's people as if it were as precious as the life of that same child you saved? Willing to stand in the face of any threat to protect her people? " - Queen Asher  

"I do..."    

"Mph....Then I hereby decry from henceforth. You shall now be known as Sir Vali. Vassal to the Royal Faction and Knight of the Kingdom of Asher. None other than I will hold authority over you and your forces in my Kingdom and will only be directed by my words only. You will report directly to me... My hand which extends over the entire Kingdom of Asher you will become my sword. Vassal to my family's faction. To protect Asher from any villain foreign or domestic that may attempt her harm.. " - King Asher  

"We have also decided to grant you the title of Baron. By the power of His majesty you shall be given noble status which will be recognized by Rose Empire and therefore the rest of her colonies.....Ah....eh well we can discuss everything else later." - Queen Asher  

Seeing the Queen then look behind me I could also hear the front door had finally opened.  

"Valiii....When are we going to eat I'm starving?" - Cyanin  

"Seriously can't we talk about our future plans while we eat? It's all I can think about is that delicious meat." - Tanin  

Tanin's flames started to brighten heavily and Cyanin started trying to flail her wings and hands rapidly to push them away.

"Oh what with seeing a new world for the first time all you can think of is food? " - Kai  

"We can go explore later Kai. Big brother Vali said he was going to cook for all of us how could we possibly think of anything else." - Cyanin    

Each of the pixies started to walk over and cracked a smile towards me.    

I could see the Annunakes making an odd face and behind them in walked my mother holding Ari and then pretty much everyone else.    

"Sorry, heh....They seemed pretty eager to come talk to you they just kept saying your name over and over hmph...They're a bit silly but have their own charm too..." - Elyria  

"I think..they're really fun!" - Ari  

I looked towards everyone and all the kiddos simply couldn't stop looking at the pixies who looked like divine beings with their warmth and glow exuding from their skin.

Their abilities to create magic with practically no chanting or spells that magic practically falls off of them.

I can see Lucy too seemed like a kid in a candy store without being able to close her mouth and try to touch each of their wings.

"Hey wait what is everyone doing in here? Shouldn't I be a part of this conversation? Vali is supposed to be my Knight!" - Princess Lucy

The princess then walked over towards us and the Queen and King simply laughed and looked back towards me.

"It's alright mother....Well I guess we're done in here anyways so we should all meet back up with everyone and eat there.....That ok with you King? We can escort you back to your Kingdom tomorrow? How bout you Princess Lucy? Want to come to our feast?"    

"I...Well I suppose I could eat another one of your meals. But that doesn't mean you can all just leave me out of everything! " - Princess Lucy

"Hmph, oh Lucy we were simply getting to know you're knew friend is all. We can't be more proud of you for bringing such a capable man to our door. And Sir Vali I think that would be wonderful..Don't you dear?" - Queen Asher  

"Naturally...It's a day of celebration for each of us and we are happy to be invited Sir Vali. Please show us the way I'd love to meet all of your people who are capable of even slaying those from the heavens haha!  " - King Asher  

"Wait...Why are you both addressing him with a Title?! Did you already Knight him?! I wasn't even present!" - Princess Lucy

"Why whatever are you talking about dear that sort of thing comes later in the Royal Court you know this...." - Queen Asher

The small princess angrily 'hmph'ed' as her mother jokingly tried to console her but I think Princess Lucy knows all about her mother's tricks.

"Alright..Let's have a big feast then to celebrate such a grand occasion...."  

"Yes!" - Cosmia

"Tehe, Yay! I can't wait!" - Cyanin

Each of the Pixies started flying through the air and dancing causing all of the onlookers to watch the light show that constantly flashed with everything they do.  

Each of those from Asher showed such odd looks towards the Pixies behavior but each of the kids found them all to be rather goofy.

And with that I warped everyone back to the dungeon floor where we could eat and hopefully work out our future that from this point on....Will be together.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------    

"Hmm...I think it needs a bit more of those  sweetened purple peppers mixed in."  

"I think so toooo..." - Ari

Ari smiled back up at me and took small steps across the table where I was currently tenderizing the meat with my hands. I've found since my Cooking Status is so high simply touching the food during  the Cooking process will show to have great benefits to the flavor of the food. Using something like a meat tenderizer would actually lesson the flavor too I've found.

Ari's small furry blondish brown tail wagged back and forth as she lifted up a small bowl she was using to mix some of the ingredients sprawled out over the large wooden table.  

After our meeting with the race leaders finished rather quickly than expected, the meal preparation had already started with a large number of Annunakes, Reiki and Pixies who had already began the food preparation.

Looking around everyone was lying on the dirt or small chairs and tables they had gathered.....Under the sunset  right outside of the prison walls each of them had stayed for their entire lives.

No one wanted to stay and eat on the Floor and as Ollie had addressed to the large crowd of survivors; ' Like the heroic Commander Locke said before this day.....Regardless of where we will be dining tonight....It will no longer be here! Let's honor his final wish! Come, let's take our first steps outside....Together!'.

It was a rather touching moment to behold.... A moment I doubt I could ever forget.

Each and everyone of those who survived such hell like hardships together here had lined up and many of them held hands as they crossed the threshold of the walls which held them away for so long, into a new world. Even the Pixies and those who had already technically been to my cabin already.....It was an event that brought many to tears, even Hjökk who was wiping hers with her small wings.

Cosmia and the rest of the Pixies had asked if I'd join them in this the biggest moment of their lives and held my hand every step of the way. Each balling their eyes out with smiles on their faces.

None of the races showed the same hostilities they once held with one another. Things like earlier struggles and arguments just didn't seem to matter as much nor hold the same kind of weight as it once had.

'Together we have accomplished so much already..... Going through battles and obstacles that would be an utter myth in my world. After our talks with each of the race leaders and those from Asher....These are my allies from now on in this world. Everyone here is now my own, from here on out...Everything we do must be together.'

"OOoooohhhhhHHAAaaaam MMMMmmmmmmmMM Oh wahwa Wah Wah Wahoohhhhh!!!" - Adler

"I will rise in resistance,

Sing the oath of rebellion

Lift my shield high

With my battlecry...

I refuse to go quietly.....

Wipe away the fear will you let those scars define you!

Or will they adorn you as we march our way to Victory!

Come on one more step! I refuse to remain here!

I leap into the dark, cleansed of all feeeeaaaar!

I stare gazing down at Death as I scream!!!!...Warrrrr!

I'll wage Warrrr!

I'll wage Warrrr!

Until the day our forgotten Dawn will come! " - Adler

Each of the Adlers sang in synergetic harmony that echoed throughout the large crowds and held a sweetness the moment the joyous tune touched our ears. Many of those down here even brought out instruments and started playing along while a large bonfire was being lit.

'Hmm, even with the Universal Language skill I can still hear the sounds of their melody but comprehend the words so perfectly.....'

Looking around the crowd I saw Lucy and her followers excitingly venture around each of the races and try to meet so many of them.

Noah and Lilly were standing with several of the Annunakes including those two young ones I had seen in the Arachnee bathhouse. While Kato and Noah look to be the same age you can tell the difference in training in the two. The size difference and muscle definition is quite a lot but after telling everyone who these people are everyone has become warm and inviting to all of them.

Most of the Annunakes were simply breath taken at the sight of there being more of their own kind outside these walls....somewhere and continued to curiously approach and observe Lilly who was actually quite small compared to each of them.

My mother was sitting down petting Fenrir alongside Sasha and Tierra while surrounded by dozens of pixies clapping their hands and dancing along to the surrounding music.  

Those from Asher were sitting down not far away on chairs that were provided for each of them while Sting and Ollie were drinking alongside several of the other races alongside Master Shen and Shakko.

"Mmm.... I'm done...." - Ari

Ari lightly walked back over and handed me a bowl with the mixed ingredients to the rub we had made for the meet and handed it over to me. While cooking, everything honestly seems to just slow down for once which I enjoy.

Ari and I continued cooking together alongside a large crowd cutting the meat and preparing to feast. Regardless of all the liveness and things going around us we each continued no different than any other day at the cabin, with Ari telling me about her day and working on her mastery of the human language together.

She stutters some but just the sheer amount of words she already knows is amazing to me.

"There....that's better. So what else did you guys do?"  

"...Well...After we flew through..the clouds....Which was like...a dream.....And everyone got together and cla..pped...we played this ...game...it was so much funnnn!...." - Ari

"Game huh....Hey Cosmia. What game did each of you play together?"  

"Huh? Oh you mean when we were all dancing? It was fun we even got little Ari to do it." - Cosmia

"Oh now I see.... So Ari was dancing huh?"  

"I was dancing?" - Ari

Ari then looked over to the hovering pixie and me as if not even realizing what she had done. After I told her what dancing was she just got red and said she didn't know because she had never danced before.

I scratched the side of her head and grabbed some of the ingredients from the bowl before tossing it over the meat I was tenderizing and then put it over the fire.

Just then the music started to die down and I looked up to see each of the race leaders standing together in close to the center of the large crowd surrounding each of them.

They each stood next to the other without any of their guards or members of their race.  

Malfius of the Reiki, Queen Cosmia of the Pixies, Adimar of the Annunakes, Kyrah of the Adlers, Queen Nhaili of the Arachnee, Pek of the Jiji and a short and thin Neko by the name of Viktor Ackerman who had a commanders cap on top his head.

"If we can have everyone's attention! We would like to say a few words....Over what the race leaders have decided on our plans for the future....." - Malfius  

To these words the loud chatter of the surrounding thousands of survivors started to quiet down.

The short Neko then stepped forward past each of the leaders and addressed the crowd.

---------------------------------------------------------------  

The small cave room continued to echo each of the voices of those gathered here today to speak on what everyone's future plans are now that the taste of freedom has finally reached them.

While many of the Adlers and Neko families who held a lot of power and prestige in this dungeon have given their concerns about the future and wishes to finally be free. The Adlers wish to explore new skies while some of the other races like the Reiki had similar hopes and dreams that could finally now be obtained to run and explore the new world.  

Not only the race leaders but elders and those with a lot of influence in this dungeon in aspects ranging from business owners to high ranking members in their society whose words hold a lot of influence. Everyone was giving their own feelings and wishes explaining what many of them have spoken of now that freedom isn't as distant as it once seemed.

"Now that we've all had an opportunity to speak....I believe we should allow our Alpha to provide his guidance over this meeting and provide a few words for those present to hopefully." - Adimar

"Why should this matter? Is there something we should be concerned  

"Tis ok Adimar....I'm sure many of those here wish to hear what our savior hero wishes to say. Please, do speak your mind here Vali. You have the gratitude of all of those here and thusly we can spare words from a person who has done so much... Please I'm anxious to hear how you wish to entice us into joining your cause with that Human King you have with you...." - Viktor

To Viktor's words all of those present then started solemnly nod while also appearing troubled to what almost seemed like a provocation.

"...Yes. I know about that too Vali. Something even Commander Locke was suspicious of...He wrote out the details over the situation outside this place and what you were trying to attain here after leaving this place in this letter....Now why should I allow the rest of my people to follow you and join this Human King's army....Possibly to fight his wars am I wrong?..." - Viktor

The neko man then pulled out the letter which he said was addressed to the next race leader. Before the first battle he had apparently prepared heavily in case of his death, so those of his race would be left in good hands and he could leave this world in peace.

I looked towards the King and Queen both sitting beside me and while they couldn't understand most of the words in here I was translating some of it more or less.

Some of the other high influential people started to give me rather fierce looks especially those from his own race.

"….While the facts that you know are all true....I..."  

"True? Are you kidding? Why should our family members and people have to fight some war we aren't even a part of? " - Adler

"Our races have barely survived such a bloody battle and you wish us to simply jump into another?" - Neko

"Enough!!!! Alpha has not finished speaking! " -  Alderon

BOooom!

A loud bang occurred when Alderon stepped forward and slammed his large beast like fists into the table.

"Everyone here owes it to Alpha to hear his words. I will not have you disrespect him again." - Grayfia

After the loud bang everyone quieted down some and some of the race leaders then began to speak up.

"They're right. We should give the human kid the chance to speak. Obviously he's showed to be a caring person to already do so much for us and not ask of anything in return.... Vali Isn't someone who would ask of something like this sparingly." - Karah

"Right! Vali's done so much for all of us how could we possibly turn him away in his hour of need!" - Cosmia

"They are right. You should all be patient and listen to what the boy has to say. He has already spoken of this when he first arrived here and we can't simply forget about that. Let us be mindful of this and hear him out...." - Malfius

Each of the other race leaders nodded and Viktor simply smiled and ushered towards me to continue silencing those from their respective sides.

"….The world outside this dungeon..... Is not in a good place right now. Not for your kind anyways. What I wish to ask each of you is to listen to my words because if you don't heed my words....It could very well lead to the extinction of each of your races...."  

To my words all those in the room started to make strange faces back towards me. While some of those in here were aware of what my words entailed most did not. Viktor along with those he had known showed no changes in their expression and waited for me to continue.

"The humans of this world they. They won't be like the ones you've gotten to meet already.....Many of them have such hate for you demi humans and I honestly don't understand why. Maybe it's in our nature to constantly see ourselves at the center of the universe...Demi human tribes all over this continent like my mother's get attacked and destroyed without any conflicts starting them at all. Families torn away from each other while they were living quietly in their village. The males killed and the females and children sold into slavery.....While I'll be honest with you, compared to the fighters in this dungeon I have a safe bet those here are probably some of the strongest on this continent simply from the intense training and monsters you've had to fight your entire lives.....But the human nations in this continent outnumber you a thousand to one.......Your Highness King Asher....Of all the races you see in this room today, have you ever seen any of these races before?"  

To my words everyone's eyes opened wide and simply looked towards the bearded King.

"While I've heard of the Arachnee race.... I don't believe I've ever seen any of the races in here before no....The winged demi humans haven't been seen on Middle Earth for a very long time I'm afraid....."  - King

The King understanding the points I was trying to make simply shook his head no and continued to look at the other leaders faces. I translated for them and told them the sad truth that many of the races here could very well be the last of their kind....According to Hjökk she's even sure that the Pixies in this room are even the last of their kind.

I looked towards the Pixies who after hearing this for the first time showed troubled looks on their faces. It were as if someone had told them their parent had died as the realization they had no more family outside waiting for them. While I've seen another Annunake before I spoke of the fact that some of the races in here could very well be the last of their kind so the choices they make hold even more weight than they once had.

"....What? What does that mean he hasn't?" - Neko

"These human nations all hold such wicked ideas? W...why should we follow them?" - Neko  

"If...if that's true then why should we jump into some war as you've just said?!" - Adler

"Let him finish...." - Viktor

I looked towards the Neko gazing back at me and each of the race leaders and continued.... I spoke of the things I had seen in my time here and Adimar and Akino even both spoke up agreeing to the savagery they had seen.

"Regardless of whatever you decide....You will undoubtedly run into these humans after you leave this place. King Asher who I've gotten the pleasure to know is a man who cares for his people....While they are a Kingdom that have their own struggles and issues to deal with...Compared to the rest of the continent I'd say this is our best bet....."  

I had the King lay out the large map of the Eastern Continent that he had and I showed them the location that was given to me by authority of a King from the Human colonies. I even spoke of why keeping control over this dungeon could also lead to incredible benefits that simply can't be measured.  

I explained in detail while Demi humans aren't looked at with respect in some nations and areas they can also hold positions of power in the Human Kingdoms as well at times and aren't looked at with the same prejudices.  

While it was a lot to take in I'm sure I tried to drill into each of them the fine points of joining together and even taking land that is fairly close to this dungeon to settle in. While the Kingdom of Asher hasn't gotten into any war and conflicts with other nations in a hundred years that does not mean that others in this world would not move to harm them. It is the way of the world to have conflicts arise and wars erupt.

I spoke selfishly and told them of my own fears of not joining this Human Kingdom and even spoke of the things I wished to obtain from this.

"All I want...Is to provide a safe place for all of our families and loved ones to live and grow up in a safe environment that will be able to last. I can't do it alone.... Even if you each wish to stretch your wings and run through the new world I ask that you try settling on this land as an opportunity to create something first...A foundation where your children, your families can flourish together. Your ancestors fought for this moment right here.... I don't wish to see those of this place met with harm I just ugh.....I mean honestly. Together we're capable of creating miracles.... Because if we don't stand together....We could each die, alone. "  

"…......." - Everyone

After throwing in that last proverb those who gathered grew quiet slowly contemplating my words.  

"....The Pixie race agrees to Vali's proposal. We're with you Vali!" - Cosmia

"Right!" - Pixies

"The Annunakes too agree to Alpha's proposal. We will follow his decision of joining this Human Kingdom. " - Adimar

After the two race leaders agreed some of those present started staring towards them and those of us that are now allying ourselves with Asher.

"The Reiki race agrees to the terms. We too shall join in the alliance." - Malfius

"Hmph, like the great Commander of the Dawn Corps spoke 'Nothing will ever become more special than what we have each shared together in this life'. We should listen to the late Commander's words and continue on this path together. " - Ollie

"....The Arachnee acknowledge the alliance. We too shall put our faith in Vali's hands as he has not steered us wrong before...." - Queen Nhaili

"Hmph..momoji....While...momo we JIji are quite comfortable momo mo here moji...Our race momo...would naturally wish to...momo..join in the..momo alliance..." - Pek

"Nya! If what Vali spoke of is correct then this Dungeon too is quite the gold mine. It could provide us endless lumber, stone and even a viable food source." - Izzie

"Hmph...While I only speak for myself. I too adhere to the alliance. " - Clara

Everyone continued chattering and after their race leaders looked towards their own people and gave the approval each of them one by one began to join this alliance with us. All but two races had agreed so far and were still talking amongst themselves.

"....The Adler's would like to make a request...." - Kyrah

I nodded and then she smiled back at me and said.

"...If we are to stay and settle close by. We have a demand of our own....Our home floor was destroyed and while each of our races are looking for a new home and have yet to split up or even calculate the spoils yet......Even if the time it would take to accomplish this is longer than expected we wish for the floating Castle to be given to us. " - Kyrah

After she spoke this some of those present who had heard of our trip to the top floor gave looks as if she were crazy.

'While I don't know why the Adlers care so much for things that float off the ground so much if it's even possible to move that thing like she hopes then....I don't see why not. This isn't even something we can probably do for a while but if this is what it takes to have the 4,000 remaining Adlers to stay alongside us and join the Alliance.'

"Deal....."

After I agreed Kyrah nodded back at me and some of the Adlers next to her and Alec acted like they had just won a fortune.

Now everyone was looking toward the new Neko race leader and the most influential people in his race including Alysteir.

"Hmph.....Commander Locke, was wise to trust you human. You have prepared for this long before even thinking of killing Balor and never once thought of leaving us even when given the opportunity from the late dead tyrant...... While we will hold the rights to self govern, the Neko race has agreed to Vali's propasal and for now...Will join the Alliance. " - Viktor

-----------------------------------------------  

"…. To all of those able to hear my words....Congratulations! Today is the day of your freedom! You have struggled, fought and clawed your way to stand here today......Well done." - Viktor

As the decorated Neko continued to look towards the crowd and take off his commander's cap everyone present had stopped and listened.

"The World outside however is not as glamorous as we had once hoped.... The world has changed a lot since our races had last seen it. We may very well be some of the last of our kinds.....But we should not feel hopeless. We should feel proud. Because for every breath our ancestors took. For every step that our brothers took. For every second that we were forced behind those walls today is a new day...... And like the great Commander Locke had tried to preach to each of the races here, we are strongest when we are together!" - Viktor

To these words many began to cheer and raise their hands in the air.

After it died down some, each of the leaders addressed the masses and spoke that they would be joining an Alliance with a Human Kingdom outside of this dungeon alongside myself. They spoke how we will begin creating a home for all of our races to live safely in this new world instead of mindlessly wondering around the new world they have stepped into.

While each of the races here are on the brink of extinction the resolve in each of their eyes is unbreakable. They know the severe situation they are currently under and while they dream of enjoying their new found freedom they also understand the level of work that needs to be done.  

The races here have a strong will to live and is not easily extinguished. They aren't like trying to entice the masses of other societies and cultures. Right now is the time they must come together and protect each other. If they don't and attempt to simply leave the dungeon without any aims and are met with a calamity....All the blood that has been spilled for them just to taste this fresh air would have been all for not.

"Now! When everyone gets in line to taste this delicious feast that is being prepared for us....Don't forget to thank the one who has literally granted our dreams back to us. The one who pulled us out of the dark and helped us bring the Dawn. The same one whose caring enough to go out of his way and prepare a splendid meal for each of us as well.....Come let's welcome Vali, his family and those from the Kingdom we have now joined with open arms...." - Malfius

Malfius raised his glass and the surrounding people who were holding something to drink had done the same. Even the pixies who were drinking water out from their gorgs rose them high in the air and took a toast out of respect.

As everyone started to line up and get ready to fill their plates of with the food we had prepared dozens of Annunakes, Reiki and Pixies were still helping mix ingredients and cut the meat before throwing over the fire.

Pek and his followers had gathered a decent amount of meat off of Balor's corpse but according to them it took a long time just to gather such an amount from his leg. According to Pek he even estimates judging from Balor's sheer size and difficulty to cut into the extraction process could ultimately take years which is astonishing.....

I pulled the first steak off the large iron grill sitting over an open fire. While I'm not flipping each steak, my hands have helped tenderize and place rub on the tough meat while also assisting in making something similar to mash potatoes with cream sauce. While the Reiki had ingredients that resembled things from my world there were also foods that had completely different flavor formulas. The potatoes had a sweet ya unfamiliar taste that has a lot more flavor when added a sauce that while paired with the steak and roasted vegetables would make any man drool.

I helped plate and prepare the first dish and was actually quite proud of my work. During the prep process we had already used several green and blue magical crystals collected by some of the citizen's belongings and now we are waiting to enjoy the first bite. While all those present know about the incredible gifts of eating some top quality meat with my cooking skill, no one really knows what to expect from this and so naturally a lot of Fomorian meat was sliced and prepared just in case.  

"Oh gosh my mouth is drooling! It just smells so good!" - Jade

"Mmm....Vali makes the most amazing foods! I can't wait to see what Balor tastes like hehe...." - Cyanin

"Wait! That's Balor's meat? How can that be safe to eat?" - Reiki

"Seriously. I don't want to eat something like that evil bastard. Who knows what it would do!" - Other Reiki

Several of the Reiki who were in front of the line then started to make odd faces to the incoming scent of cooked meat. Several of the Pixies behind them though started to show angry glares and before anything else was said something strange happened.

"Ah! It's Balor! He's back!" - Reiki

"Impossible! He's somehow survived! Let's send him back to the afterlife!!!!" - Reiki

The two same Reiki men then dropped their empty plates on the ground and then ran off and started swinging randomly into the air.  

Everyone present immediately died down hearing the word 'Balor' and looked at this incredibly odd situation without many words to what was happening. While alert after hearing such words what we saw after only perplexed each of us more.

"Ahahaha! How does it feel Dark Lord! Does my fist taste good!" - Reiki

"Come on everyone! He's far weakened now! Let us kill him together!!" - Reki

The two Reiki then continued to unleash skill after skill while loud bursts of wind and lights continued to flash around each of them as they continued to fight their invisible arch enemy.

"Teehee..." - Cyanin

"Hehe nice one Cosmia! Now we can have their places in line!...." - Tanin

The small Pixies then slowly walked up and were no in the front of the line and smiled while lifting up each of their plates. I then looked back towards the two Reiki men who were sadly under some kind of illusion spell and continued spitting off ridiculous lines after the other.....Apparently in this illusion they seem to be winning easily and are enjoying themselves plenty.

"Ahahahah! Do not worry everyone! We can hold him back. Get the young to safety we can handle it!" - Reiki

"Ahaha! Not so proud now are you Dark Lord?!" - Reiki

'….I just...I don't even have words for that. '

I then put the steak up on the plate and let Cyanin be the first taste tester of my foods yet again. They seem to trust me too but according to the description after I used the magical crystals the meat should be absolved of any negative energy.  

The small turquoise Pixie then took a big bite and chewed with her mouth open unashamed.

The meat slowly started to disentegrate into her mouth and everyone could see that Cyanin was enjoying every possible bite while closing her eyes and showing everyone what was inside of her mouth. While gross everyone more or less had their mouth watering since it had been a long time since many of us had even eaten.

"Hehe...It's so good! I have to have another bite mmm num num num..." - Cyanin

"Hey quit holding up the line some of us are hungry here!" - Holland

"Oh fine!" - Cyanin

Each and everyone continued to come up to each of the grills and got served before walking back and sitting down  around the large bonfire.

After a few minutes we learned that after eating the enchanted meat of Balor the Fallen God continued to give large stat boosts with every bite. What however astonished the crowd present were the not one...But two brand new Stats that were granted after eating enough of the high quality meat.

I fixed myself and Ari a plate and continued to have a few bites while we continued Cook the surrounding food and serve all those who came to our grilling station. Ari looked excited as she happily kept putting the mashed potato like substance and cream sauce she looked happy to help prepare.

Her tail even now can't stop wagging back and forth.

Congratulations! After eating the enchanted meat taken from the once God of Darkness and Drought; you have gained a new Stat!        (Rare)

Indomitable Vitality

After absorbing the qualities hidden deep within the meat of the once God of Darkness your muscles have taken in the qualities of the one who once reigned supreme over the Night. You have absorbed some of the Vitality of one once Divine and now your body when pushed to the limits will start to show its true power.

Now when your body is under critical conditions health will now start to deplete at half the normal speed when taking damage.

When Health is below 15%  

10% Reduction to All Damage

20% Rise in Strength

25% Rise in Critical Hit Evasion

33% Increase to Recovery Rate

Indomitable Vitality + 50

Quality of Completion: A  

Indomitable Vitality + 100

Congratulations! After eating the enchanted meat taken from the once God of Darkness and Drought and prepared by a skilled Chef; you have gained an additional new Stat!        (Rare)

Magic Defense

The magic coursing through your body has now merged with your muscles and flesh. From now on your bodies innate magic supply will constantly increase your body's natural defenses.

Magic Defense + 50

Quality of Completion: A  

Magic Defense + 75

Current Defenses have been Increased : + 5,804 Defense

Each Stat given from Balor's body almost made me want to jump for joy as these were two rare and unforeseen gifts that could greatly aid those with low defenses to have a great defense. Even if someone can't use magic, if their Mana supply increased their defenses would naturally increase....'Though I think whenever I use my magic that also plays into how much my defenses will naturally rise with that second one....Heh...this is still awesome! Thanks again Balor.....'

Congratulations! For consuming the blood, flesh and soul of a once Divine you have earned a new Title:

God Eater

25% Rise in inflicting Fear onto an opponent.

5% Rise in Poison Resistance

From now on you will give off a presence that is unsettling to those from the Divine Realms and of a holy lineage.

I could see Fenrir too must have also gotten this new Title and considering that my new Class specializes in causing the Fear status this is a great benefit...'I wonder what Fenrir's class is if Monsters can even obtain classes....'

I looked towards the setting sun that many here continued to stare off into as they enjoyed their meals.

I continued to try and use my time well and practice with my new Dark Apparitions skill to try and simply make a decent shield or solid substance but it is incredibly difficult. While I can conjoin some of the darkness in the surrounding area I can't keep it congealed and condense enough to form a solid figure. While I was cooking and talking with all those who walked by I tried to maintain this lifestyle of using my time wisely.

'Hmm....This is difficult. I can't even make a ball. This skill is just so....broad.'

While the lines in front of the other grills were much less short my line continued to grow larger and larger. While it was the same food and I had a hand in preparing everything here my line continued to grow into a large crowd.

With every plate I prepared for those who had survived, I was met with nothing but warm and loving reactions from each of them. I haven't gotten the chance to meet many of them yet but many of these survivors weren't warriors at all. While their levels were high some of the survivors had plenty of other professions and jobs but they all seemed to stem towards war efforts here in such a place.

Some came up to pledge their lives to me like some of the others already had. Some would kneel. Some would embrace me while breaking out into tears.  

I honestly didn't have much to say as I for some reason couldn't find the words. Everytime I tried to even speak over not mentioning it, think nothing of it, every rebuddle I came up with was practically bombarded with their overpowering words of them being forever grateful to me.

Many of the females of each race while even some of the Reiki also came by and had made  necklaces out of flowers and would wrap them around my neck. I was originally worried I would soon get covered in nothing but accessories, I was then told this is a custom in their dungeon.

Those who have usually lost a loved one or is the last of their family honor the one who has avenged them or helped them greatly. With a show of respect and acknowledging to the world they owe me a great debt that they will have to repay in this lifetime. By helping them avenge a lost love or helping to save the last of a particular bloodline the races here have considered me now a part of them.  

"Um wait!...Miss you...hmm why does everyone keep leaving these here....." - Ari

Just then a thin neko woman then started walking quickly away while what appeared to be trying to ignore Ari walking after her.

There were also a few girls who kept dropping their bracelets in front of me. I honestly hadn't even noticed it until roughly 20 were sitting at the edge of the table where Ari had picked them up and placed not knowing what to do with them.

Each bracelet looked to be handmade and each had its own look and design to it. Some were made from polished steel others were made with small stones and even monster fangs.

Until Ollie drunkenly spoke about what was actually happening I was reminded of a particular custom in medieval times. Women back then would sometimes drop their handkerchiefs that they spent time embroidering themselves in front of the man they desire to let them know they are interested in them being pursued.

If a man picked it up that meant he was interested in courting that woman. If I were to choose one of the bracelets these maidens had made and wore it on my arm it would be no less and showing I were wishing to court that person. I found it odd the demi humans in this dungeon had a similar custom and now I can understand some of the odd looks me and Ari have been getting.

'Come to think of it I saw a young Neko earlier look at Ari kind of funny earlier, that probably explains it.'

"Mmmm....I must say Vali. You got quite the talent for cooking. You might actually be a better cook than you are a warrior hmph...." - Alysteir

A familiar voice came in through my left ear and I saw Alystier slowly approaching me while holding onto a plate with food on it.

'Hmm...So Alysteir is eating this special meat too huh....Why does the idea of that give me a headache?...... '

Alystier slowly walked in between the large table and iron grill and over to where I and Ari were standing while taking bites of her food.

"You don't say Alysteir.... That kind of sounds like a challenge."  

"Hmph...Hardly. I was simply implying your Cooking skills are quite good is all. If you never make it big in this world  as a Hero you always have something steady to fall back on nnn.... Quite yummy." - Alysteir

"Hey!....Who took my food!" - Cyanin

I leaned over and each of us turned and peaked in the direction of Cyanin angrily looking around where she was sitting. Someone had taken her plate along with her food that she wasn't finished eating.

I looked up and saw Alysteir eating happily and with a glance in my direction she spoke.

"Hmph....I don't like waiting in line....." - Alysteir

[Vali....May I speak with you a moment...]

I heard Hjökk whisper into my thoughts and saw she was slowly flying towards the woods just a little ways around the partially destroyed outside of this dungeon.

"Hey Ari I'll be right back ok. Want me to take you to Elyria real quick?"  

"Hm? Oh ah...I can walk. Oh um...A..bout that...Vali I um was wondering if. Now I can come with you...from...from now on? " - Ari  

"Ari....You know I'm thankful for you saving all of us today but...You know you can't do stuff like that from now on. It's far too dangerous."

"Bu...but I missed you...." - Ari

The young puppy girl looked up at me and looked eager to show just how much she's changed and reacting to my words Za Za came walking up rather quickly.

Alysteir who was still standing close by continued to eat quietly and Za Za had asked to escort Ari but I was kind of perplexed by what Ari had meant.  

'Oh wow....I forgot just before I left for Balor's dungeon last. I told her if she could run and...pick up a weapon she could come with me when I leave the cabin during the day....'

"I um...Know you didn't see me but...I did run a little. And I picked up a knife....Even...Even though I hit you with it but...but I had to...to.." - Ari

"That's what this is about. You want to come with me when I go hunting from now on?"  

To my words Ari shyly nodded her head yes while holding onto her tail. For a brief moment I contemplated this as this idea still scared me. I was just about to say something until I was interrupted.

"Alpha...If the young one wishes to join you in your hunts then why not let her tag along. She looks to be coming of age soon anyways and might be good for her to learn from how to hunt....Besides if the little one wishes to come with you it is naturally my job to protect her wherever she goes so I will take responsibility in protecting her my Alpha." - Za Za

Za Za put her arm against her chest and bowed and I saw Alysteir glance in our direction and then pretend to not even be looking. Ari who was still shyly holding onto her tail kept looking back up at me biting her lip.

"....Ok. I guess you did save everyone here so I should start rewarding you some....Butttt..... I seem to recall part of that deal was that you had to show me you can run. Now I know you can pick up a knife...But let's see if you can run all the way over to Elyria ok?"  

"...Really? Ok! I, I can real..ly? Oh thank you so much Vali...." - Ari

The small girl who for some reason cares for me a great deal, came over and wrapped her small arms around me and gave me another hug. She had never been treated well by anyone before we both had crossed paths. But even though we come from separate worlds the two of us somehow have a way of naturally healing the other simply by being there.  

After setting her down Ari excitingly started lifting her legs up and 'running' over to where Elyria and the rest of the kiddos were sitting by the Pixies and Annunake maidens.

Her legs didn't cover nearly much ground and she swung her arms around awkwardly but the look on her face was simply priceless.  

She slowly got closer to Elyria when she started to toppled over and her mouth had opened wide as she started to fall again.

Moments before tumbling over however a sudden image appeared right next to where Ari  was standing and slowly lifted her up by the back of her red dress. Ari was then lightly placed back down on her feet and she too seem surprised by it.

Ari looked back up to the now walking away figure of Alysteir as she quietly continued to eat her food.

"Thank..you..." - Ari

Ari then quickly looked back towards me and waved before running over to Elyria excitedly. The heartwarming image of my beautiful mother catching Ari in her arms and surrounded by everyone else entered my eyes as I took one last glance towards Alysteir who was walking away.

Za Za nodded towards me and walked over to where my family and the other Annunake maidens were sitting and I then walked over to meet Hjökk.

I walked past multiple people trying to wave me down and speak to me and eventually made it to the edge of the forest Hjökk had first came to when discovering this place.

I walked several paces in until the surrounding light coming in started to darken.  

I saw the figure of Hjökk in her Valkyrie form sitting on a rock and staring off into the distance rather quietly.

"Hey you..... What are you doing out here?"  

To my words Hjökk looked back towards me slowly as if already knowing I was here but didn't say anything for several breaths.

"...Everything alright?"  

"I was just thinking...." - Hjökk

"Oh, care to share any of that with me? When are you so pensive?"  

To my words Hjökk angrily glared at me then I could see the fury inside her eyes slowly subside and almost turn into that of sadness.

"….I'll be leaving soon. " - Hjökk

"Leaving?...Like this world or where? Where are you going?"  

For some reason at this moment  I started to choke up and I could feel my chest clench up strangely.

"My job in guarding you until you were strong enough to protect yourself has come to an end....Loki is sending me on a vacation. I guess I can go anywhere I want..." - Hjökk

"Oh. It's just that. Well that's cool I guess, but that's good Loki's giving you some vacation time with all the work you've been putting in for him hmph...."  

With that Hjökk looked back over to me but seemed to not be able to find the words to say.

"Everything alright? You don't have that same Valkyrie anger in you as normal. You hardly even ate 3 helpings of your steak."  

To what would normally get an angry response Hjökk slowly looked back up to me and stood up on the rock she was standing and slowly walked over to me.

Before I could get any words out the Valkyrie had wrapped her arms around my back and put her face oddly into my chest.

"Hjökk hehe...What are you doing?"  

"….I'm giving you a hug. I've seen others do it but I'm just trying....To see what it's all about." - Hjökk

I let the Valkyrie maiden continue hugging me into the quiet fading light.

"Well...I suppose that trinket from Loki's time is just about up....." - Hjökk

Hjökk then turned back into her purple crow form and started flapping her wings in the air infront of me.

According to her some of the gods might start looking towards this area soon and Loki gave her a means to hide herself in case someone were trying to watch us just now and it apparently hides her form to others.

"Now...Just because I'll be gone doesn't mean you should space on your training and study. Don't get into too much trouble. And don't lose sight of who you really are, and why you cam here." - Hjökk

"Hjökk...How long is this vacation of yours? And will I be seeing you after that?"  

Hjökk then stated she didn't know exactly and it all depends on what Loki decides later. He also is planning on speaking with me directly soon but I'm guessing that will come at his own time too.  

"From the last vacation he granted Skuld for her hard work it lasted roughly 1 month cycle on Middle Earth time." - Hjökk

"…..1 Month?....So I'll see you again in one month after your vacation?"  

"If you were paying attention Vali! I just said I don’t know....It could be 2 months, it could even be 3....It all depends on what Lord Loki decides later....." - Hjökk

"Oh my gosh I can't believe I thought this was something serious...... Go have a good vacation. You deserve it..... I'll....I'll see ya when you get back then?"  

The small purple crow then shook her head when she realized I was making fun of her awkwardness and then flew over to my shoulder one last time.

"...For a human you're not so bad.... Tell Elyria I'll try to visit soon and....I'll....miss.....each of you." - Hjökk

I put my hand around Hjökk's feathers and gave her a warm goodbye which is something I'm now starting to think might not happen too often in the Divine Realms.

"We'll miss you too....I'd say stop by whenever you get hungry but then that just leaves way too many windows."  

BOOOOM!!!!!

The soft sensation coming from Hjökk's wings felt like they turned into the hands of the incredible Hulk and smashed into the side of my head.

"I told you I can't get fat!" - Hjökk

"Owe!...Exactly that's why I can laugh at how much you eat for such a little bird."  

"….Just for that! I'm lending Elyria a little something special for later and I won't bring you back anything from my vacation. Hmph!" - Hjökk

Hjökk then turned and started to fly away.  

"I'll miss our talks Hjökk....Have fun and hurry back to us."  

The small purple bird had briefly stopped in mid flight and then continued to fly away while I waved her goodbye.

I started to walk back to the feast and for some reason started to feel a sudden sense of loneliness creep into my heart. The same purple bird that always sat on my shoulder would be gone for a while and well....

'I guess I'll have to wait till she gets hungry again and she'll be right back hmph.....I know that Valkyrie's weakness.'

I started to walk back toward the feast thinking about all the crazy things that have happened since coming here when I noticed several large figures approaching me rather quickly.

Within no time the figures of Adimar, Akino and several other Annunakes each appeared right in front of me. They all had their weapons on and where wearing their equipment ready for battle.

"Vali! There you are....Listen Alysteir spoke some pressing words to us earlier we cannot shake from our heart. You must come with us." - Adimar

"What's going on?"  

"Alpha....There might be more Elkia alive right now outside this dungeon. With the Elves who escaped....We must search for them. " - Akino

"Exactly! How can we sit here celebrate whenever those we hold much dear in our hearts may need us this very second." - Alderon

Each of the Annunakes were staring at me with unyielding eyes and I agreed we should each go search in the direction those Fomorians and Dark Elves went.  

Alysteir had tipped them off of the possibility of this once she heard of the fact that the Dark Elves on Floor One naturally had some with them to heal them. It's natural to speculate there could be more as well with the other Dark Elves who had left the dungeon.

"Valiiii! There are you are. We were hoping you'd come dance with us!" - Cyanin

"Oh! Vali what's going on?" - Cosmia

Several Pixies too started to fly over and I explained the situation to them and they all wanted to join as well. Since it wouldn't be good to send a large force at night away from the dungeon in search of these colossal beasts but they wouldn't take no for an answer.

"...I guess you might as well add me to the mix." - Alec

The four winged bird then descended from overhead and I'm honestly unsure how long he's been hiding up there.

The number wound up turning into 20 Annunakes and 10 Pixies along with myself. While we aren't going to engage the Fomorian army if found we are however going to go investigate. With the cover under the Pixie's illusions and the speed of the Annunakes we should at least be able to cover a considerable amount of ground before I have to warp any of us away.

The Annunakes are great at tracking so after we told some of the Pixies to fill everyone in I told them we wouldn't be longer than a couple hours and should be back before the feast even finishes.

"We can just stretch our legs some before the Grand Funeral later this evening. Come Alpha. We follow you." - Adimar

After hearing this, Daisy and Cosmia both saluted and started to fly back to the feast while the rest of us took off into the cover of the Night and headed north....

--------------------------------------------------------  

"Mm....Alpha. They continued on that direction...." - Nanu

"Mmm....No....a few broke off...Traveled in that direction." - Alderon

After only 30 minutes of running the distance we have traveled is probably larger than the amount a horse could travel within a full day. The Annunakes are simply flying through the forest at mach speeds the Pixies have to hold on or they'd simply be left behind.  

I honestly have no idea how I can still see Alec flying overhead slightly behind us all.

My speed which was nowhere close to their's at night so I wound up having to use my Spatial Magic and warp myself into the direction the Annunakes were going and by the time I appeared they would simply fly right past me.

The light from the Moon is now shining on their white fur and even with the incoming storm clouds overhead is still reaching through the clouds and granting them huge benefits.

'I have no idea how fast of a speed these Annunakes are moving at right now but no normal human would ever even be able to fight them. Without a high enough speed and evasion it would be simply asking for death as they can cover a distance of hundreds of meters barely within a second and ignore any and all defense.'

"Alright...Let's go....West where the group broke off....."  

The Annunakes and Pixies holding onto them and sitting on my shoulders each nodded their heads and we continued on.

'Hmm....We're starting to travel dangerously close to Aldain. I wonder if those Fomorians wound up hitting one of their Kingdom's three small cities....If they were the likelihood of there being many survivors isn't very good. '

I continued to warp myself as far as my eyesight could allow me and continued doing that to keep up with the quickly sprinting Annunakes until we started to see smoke in the distance.

"We must be getting close to a settlement..."  

"The scent continued in this direction Alpha...Do you think they may have attacked the settlement up ahead?" - Alderon

".... I don't know. But it might get dangerous soon. If it's more than we can fight against you should each head back. I'll be able to kill a few of them and maybe grab a few survivors and warp away if need be."  

To my words however the silver eyes of each of the wolves started staring at me in disbelief.

"….Do you think our loyalty to you a joke Alpha. Is that why you speak this way?" - Alderon

"What? No that's not it. I just think considering there could be a large number of enemies we should play it safe and shouldn't try to fight with such little numbers right now. You've already lost many of your brothers and sisters today we need to be mindful of that as well."  

"How can you say that?" - Grayfia

"Alpha I....Do you know nothing of why we chose to follow you?" - Alderon

"Vali. The words we spoke in honoring you as our Alpha. Do you think those words simply came just because I told them to?" - Adimar

"I well... Kind of yah."  

"….Anywhere you go...I go....Anywhere you die....I die. You speak as if you didn't lose your brothers, your sisters today.....How can you say such things? They died for you Alpha." - Alderon + Annunakes

As Alderon started to speak so did the other Annunakes in unison until Alderon then spoke up as if upset.

To each of their words I started to understand a little more about these white wolves. I had already started to see the Pixies as my family. I had already acknowledged those of this dungeon and myself are now united but I still had separated their deaths from myself and didn't consider how it would make their brethren feel.

"You think we chose you as our Alpha simply because you bested the previous reigning Alpha before?....We chose to follow the Alpha because of his resolve. For even in the face of annihilation. Even when he could have taken Balor's offer and left this place you still stood true....For an Alpha must always have the resolve to stand even against death and remain unshaken in his convictions......That is why. We follow you." - Alderon

I looked towards Adimar and Akino and they both grinned and bowed towards me with their arms rested over their chests.

"Alright....I'm sorry. I didn't mean to dishonor the words of each of you and those of your fallen brethren...Alright. Let's go save our Elkia then....."  

To my words each of the Annunakes then nodded with pride and so did the Pixies as we each started to move towards the settlement in the distance. We each remained quiet knowing our illusions were already in place and continued forward.

As the storm clouds started to creep overhead I activated Dark Aura only because Midnight Aura had not cool down yet.

While we could only see the tops of a few buildings at this point we continued to advance towards the city until we started to feel the ground beneath our feet start to shake heavily.

YEEEHEEEE HAHAHAHAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!

We came to a large clearing after following a dirt path we could see a walled city with several large stone buildings and what looked like dozens of shacks and stone buildings towards the center of the village.

While there were some lights on in the city the majority of the city was mostly dimly lit and without my night vision I wouldn't have been able to see anything.

'….Where is.....Oh there you are......'

I saw a large Fomorian standing close to the city walls and looked to have been eating several of the livestock right outside the city gates.

HEEHEHAHAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!

Another Fomorian I then saw started to come in from the north and was barrelling straight towards the city wall.  

Each of these Fomorians were some of the stronger ones Balor brought down from the top floors. These Fomorians each almost look to have tentacles coming out of the back of their heads and necks but I don't see any Dark Elves with these too.

"...It's just these two Alpha. I can't.....I can't smell anymore than those two." - Nanu

"…..Ok I'll take the one barreling towards the city. These aren't normal Fomorians and they are a lot stronger than the normal ones so don't let them catch you. Stay off their backs too..."  

Everyone nodded and I covertly pulled out Abgrund and warped away. While I had Cyanin on my shoulder I was told I get to use one attack before my illusion spell would fall off so I have to do this the right way.

Hee Hee HAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!

"WAHHH!!!!!!!!!"  

I could hear the laughing Fomorian shaking the very earth with his long strides and I could hear screams coming from the distance.

'While I can't use Abgrund's skills I can use the abilities gifted from Balor......'

"Dark Sever......"

SHHHHHEEEEEEEEEAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!HH!H!H!H!H!H!H!

A large crescent mooned blade exploded out from Abgrund and its size and shape was simply horrendous compared to when I had originally used this skill. The size was nearly 4 times as thick and extended further and further the more it darted through the sky and toward the sprinting Fomorian.

Just as the Fomorian got close to the wall the Dark Sever flew threw the air at alarming speeds and had managed to travel straight through the  Colossal beast. This caused his upper half to split apart from the lower torso and plummeted down to the earth below.

WA..AHHHHHHH!H!H!H!H!H!!

As the large half of the mutilated beast crashed through the walls I could hear loud screams from citizens in the night and warped in closer and delivered a Moonlight Wind Claw into it's severed head to attack straight into the beasts brain. I continued to swing Abgrund repeatedly into the large beast not giving it a single moment at retaliation.  

I can feel myself even becoming stronger in the night and wanted to test out more of my strength so I activated Demonic Awakening to feel a sudden rush of power I've never felt coursing through my body before.

With every swing the black tentacles continued to be chopped away and I could hear the loud wails coming from the dying Fomorain who couldn't seem to heal his wounds as easily anymore.

As I was fighting its slowly increasing its health I delivered one final blow with Lord's Earth Shattering smash directly with Abgrund and increasing it's weight severly.

The tough furred Fomorian started to feel like soft jello and started to erupt from below Abgrund's increased weight and its health had fully dropped to zero.

I then warped back to in front of the city and appeared close to where everyone else should have been. When I warped back to in front of the city everyone I could sense was around me due to Cyanin still being on my shoulder and allowing me to see through their illusions but none of them had tried to attack the other Fomorian yet.

They were all simply standing several dozens of meters away from the City Wall where the tall Fomorian who towered over the small trees continued to reach down and pick up dead horses and cattle scattered across the field.

After dropping a large severed cow into its grinning mouth it started to turn around and look toward the direction of the other Fomorian.

The large Fomorian started hearing the loud cries come from the beast that now stop the remaining Fomorian turned around and started to approach the city.  

"Ai...Ai.ai...ai....." - ?

"No.no no no no......please …...please turn around please." - ?

"Ru..run Rory it's going to crush you!" - ?

"Ai..ai..ai..nnn....I can..i can't ......he..help..." - ?

I heard the voices of someone crying and pleading for their lives just out in front of us. When I looked not far out of the stoned city wall I saw what looked like young a rather small demi human. It had round furry ears and a very large puffy tail that had stripes on the end but couldn't discern with it was a boy girl.

Out behind the short demi human were kids? I looked around and out in front of the wall I saw some feeble looking old demi human men and women while even some weak and dirty looking human children wearing rags. Some of them looked like normal dirty citizens and didn't have any slave collars on them.

There were several of them and all of different ages but each appeared to be slaves but each of them were holding weapons? No that's a wooden shield....That's actually a wooden dagger! I think only three of them are even holding an actual sharp weapon? What is this?

"Alpha...." - Adimar

Being shook awake I activated Dark Sever on my scythe and flung it horizontally to the slowly encroaching Fomorian approaching the City Wall and sliced right through the massive beast with one swing.  

"Akino, each of you go grab those ones out in front so they don't get crushed."  

To my words the Annunakes moved without hesitation and turned into white blurs that practically disappeared entirely.

Within a few moments each of those who were out in front of the collapsing Fomorian were now back further away from the wall and only a few feet away from me.  

BOOOOM!!!!

The beast slowly fell down and crashed into the earth below causing a massive crater to form while the side of the City Wall behind it had a large hole blown through it.

I was in Demonic Awakening and for whatever reason my senses I feel are incredibly sharp....That Fomorian's life force was practically torn in half......It's quite vulnerable to Death Grip now.

I reached out my hand and started to concentrate on the large almost diamond hard life force of this colossal tyrant.

I could feel my hands slowly forming a proper hold and started trying to forcibly crush this beasts life with the power of my will.  

AHh...AHhhaha...WUUHAhh...WUAHhhH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The viciously mutilated beast started to struggle and I continued to focus my mind around its weakened life force and started to feel it's almost indestructible feel start to give.  

I could feel cracks appearing throughout my grip and slowly the beasts life force started to slowly shatter within my hand without having any way of defending against it at all.

Booooom!

I heard another loud 'boom' and the bloody corpse erupted out of what of its openings and slowly started stop moving entirely.

"…......." - Everyone

I looked around and noticed that there were almost a dozen slaves standing outside these city walls. Holding weapons, shields?  

None of them were injured in any way but each and everyone of them were terrified the moment I approached them as they couldn't stop themselves from shaking.  

'There so....weak. Are they all slaves? Not all of them have collars on and all of them aren't demi human either. Some of the old men who looked homeless just looked too old and feeble. One of them even looks to be Lilly's age...Wait is that? That granny who ran that diner in  that other city?....What is going on right now?'

I turned and looked towards the partially destroyed city wall and there I saw standing over the city gate were several guards in full Aldain armor and matching weapons.

"…......."  

Even though my heart doesn't beat any longer it's as if I could feel my breathing start to change rapidly as if I had.

Rattle....Rattle..

Rattle....

…....They dare do this.......They deserve......DEATH!!!......

"Those.......those cowards...."

The gate started to open and out ran several guards from behind the safety of the city gate and came to investigate the fallen monster.

Rattle...Rattle..

Rattle!

…..They do not deserve to hold a weapon.......Kill them......Kill them all.....

Rattle.Rattle! Rattle!

I couldn't even think straight seeing what was in front of me. While this was not the same city of Aldain but all of their cities are ran in such a vile and sickening way?

'I've....I've never seen such evil....'

…...Eat them.......rattle....

"Hello! Greetings from Aldain young Hero. You truly saved us this night from such a terrifying beast...We must have your na...na.....what the?" - Aldain Guard

I could feel all of those around me start to flinch as Dark Pressure naturally exude off my flesh I could no longer contain my anger. My hatred.

".....Kill them."  

"...Wha...wha NO!" - Aldain Guard

Not but two breaths after  I spoke a white blur flew past me and intercepting the incoming Aldain Guard who was just speaking and severed the man in half from his head to his lower torso.

Within the sudden mist of blood into the air, Alderon emerged wielding his great sword with one arm.

This sudden image caused the three Aldain men behind him to sudden crash down onto dirt and slowly crawl backward.

"What are you waiting for an invitation?! The Alpha has asked for their heads! " - Alderon

WhooooOSH

WHoooooOOOOOOOooooooSH

WHooooOOOOoooooshh!

Three white blurs then flew past me and towards the now retreating Guards and impaled each of them through their hearts.

The guards up on the wall couldn't believe what they had seen. Some of them tried to call out in alarm but while they started to raise their voices the Annunakes continued moving at mach speed towards the City Gate and leapt clean over the 12 foot wall.

"AHhhhhHHH!!!!" - City Guard

"What's happening? Ahhh my ARMMM!!!!!!" - City Guard

"Why are they attacking?! Call for supahhhHHH!!!!" - City Guard

Several of the guards standing atop the wall were met with the emergence of several Annunakes who had moved from my sides and leapt onto the wall and in the span of less than two breaths had taken each of their lives.

BOOOM!

BOOM!

Two heads also exploded from a few of the guards on the two guard post towers when a sudden flash of white light had shot out towards each of them.

"Hmmm...The power of this bow is not normally this strong. Interesting...." - Alec

I turned and looked to see Alec pulling back on a bowstring and seeing a white arrow being created out of nowhere and once he had let go of his bow it had killed a target with every shot.  

"….Anyone you find with this collar on take em off with your claws but be careful.....If you don't wish to follow me into the city then don’t...."

"...We're with you Vali." - Freyki

"They're cowards who send their females and children out as bait....They don't even deserve to wield a weapon...." - Grayfia

"Alpha...What is it you wish for us to do?" -Alderon

"….The Elkia aren't here you should each go home. This next part won't be very pretty...."

"If brother Vali says these humans are evil then they are evil. Family always sticks together so we're not leaving..." - Freyki

"Right! You're stuck with us now bro. Your battles are our battles." - Tanin

Out from Tanin's eyes and fists started fluttering in a bright orange fire started to grow in intensity.

"You know where we stand Vali. We follow the Alpha...." - Adimar

"Like the little one just said...You're stuck with us."  - Akino

"….Then take those over there with us. It's starting to rain so Tanin can you and Freyki stand near them?...Let's go ask some questions and get some answers...."

As each of those with me nodded we started to walk towards the opened City Gate and into one of the cities of Aldain.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------    

Wyndia's POV:  

'How?...How...How could this have happened!!!!!!'  

1500 good soldiers were horrendously slaughtered... EATEN!  

Under my command 100 Elite Inferno Knights, 200 Whistling Wind Wyverians and their riders, and 3 of the 6 Captains who were being groomed under Lord Warren's direct command is even more of a horrifying figure than the ones before it.…....All of them...Everyone.....Wiped out.    

'Ughh....This is my first time being given command due to my family backings...What in the heavens names were those things!!!! Such giant beasts picked up and sent their victims into an unimaginably gruesome end.....I....I can still hear their screams like it just happened.'  

I feel like my entire body has simply gone numb and I can't control my rising fears.  

By General Warren's command, we traveled to an area south east of one of Aldain's 3 cities. Searching for the man in the mask who had slayed General Valentine in battle. Other than myself no one knew this masked man from the earlier crystal images floating around the Kingdom and the one who had killed Lord Valentine were the same. We weren't even tasked with doing anything more than gaining intel on this man's location and awate for further orders.....  

I was leading a small force that was to unite with a coalition force from the Kingdom of Trost that was composed of multiple assortment of races and almost 600 slave soldiers. 1500 troops and our force of 500 were suppose to meet up with them in a designated location to hide our further movements but nothing could have prepared us for such a terrifying sight.  

It was dark and under the cover of the storm clouds forming overhead  made it increasingly difficult seeing what was out in front of us. Our movements slowed down but we continued to the designated area and were met with the sight of the complete annihilation of the forces from Trost.  

All that remained were destroyed carts and wagons with a blood bath of mutilated corpses of horses of what remained of the Trost forces.  

We could hear screams and cries for help screeching through our ears from the distance but could not determine their origins at all. As we cautiously advanced forward a horrifically loud laughter followed by seeing a large shadowed figure crashing into the area just out in front of us.  

BOOOOOOM!!!!!

HAhhhh.......ahhh......

When we discovered it wasn't an enemy attack but one of the Wyverian riders and their mount smashing into the dirt everyone of us froze. We looked at each other confused but were only met with watching dozens of our Wyverian riders plummeting from the dark clouds overhead and were dead before even crashing into the ground below. Some were even missing their heads and looked to have had their bodies torn apart.  

Out from the darkness they came.......Those two creatures from the night who took us a mere three breaths just to scope the height of this massive beast. Even taller than the Giants race these two beasts were also abnormally agile and within two long steps they had already leaped within our ranks causing chaos.  

Could those two monstrous things really have, have....Killed them all?  

Only 57 made it back to the rallying point. Within moments those two beasts starting attacking and they seemed completely unmoved by all of our attacks. One after the other was crushed or hurled into their massive gaping mouths that continued to dawn a most unsettling grin...  

We scattered and each fled for our lives. Though even on our famed Blazing War Stallions hailed for the unmatched speed on the continent, those fleeing right alongside me were even gripped and drug away by flying beasts that would only carry them back into the dark clouds overhead. I could only hear their screams echo louder than any war drum that has ever entered these ears.  

Even now I have to suppress my broken will to keep my sanity.  

How could it have all turned into something so tragic under my first command? A simple errand and we would run into a catastrophe. Why? Why did I ever try to ask to lead such an expedition over any of the Captains? To curry for General Warren's favor? Ugh! Like he'd even notice!    

'What are we going to do now? I can't even think of lifting myself from my seat as I've been paralyzed in this spot ever since arriving....'  

" We should probably get out of here soon. Regardless of what may be happening outside this city, we must report this to Myro at all costs. Besides no reason for those things to stop heading north and head this way either....At that point it would be too late to flee." - Captain Calder  

"Are you kidding?!! Absolutely not! There is no way we're going out there at night with our Blazing Stallions we'd simply be ringing the fucking dinner bell for those things! Count me out on your suicide mission. I'm staying right here until morning." - Captain Zhengtilly  

Captain Calder was facing out the window while holding firmly onto his necklace he has had since General Warren recruited him from a small hunting tribe on the outskirts of Myro. He was a hunter who grew up and lived in the wild and his innate talent has always had a way of sensing danger I'm told....and yet he had no way of sensing the emergence of those, those horrific fiends!  

"Regardless of the dangers or not...Staying here would be equally as dangerous. If those things don't continue North and head West than maybe Myro will face a calamity....We must warn them of the potential threat even if we must risk our lives...." - Captain Calder  

"Hmph...good luck with that. " - Captain Zhengtilly  

"….And the King...kingdom's...dangers...I ..lift u..up..to bear  

Only....to..to..to...tread..where those...never...dare...  

Lift up...my sword and shield...  

Pray..to the Gods... I'll never yield....For Myro...I..." - Officer Horis  

"Hey can you cut that shit out?! No one wants to hear you have a meltdown right now. Get ahold of yourself." - Elite Inferno Knight Horand  

The small petty officer only continued to shake and the Elite Knight of General Warren's Inferno Knights seemed to be close to his wits end as well.  

Coming from the rooms entrance was a tall thin blonde man wearing glasses. He was wearing the same Captain's uniform as the other two captains and same black cape with Myro's insignia.  

"Ah....Well I dealt with some of those noise complaints coming from down the hallway....I swear these walls in this city are truly too thin." - Captain Theodore  

Walking in with his same noble prestige he came over to the small table I was sitting and sat down beside me. Without even giving me a glance he started to pour himself a bottle of wine and take a big drink.  

Breaking the silence was yet another individual barging into the room and looked into the small meeting room with a sinister anger in his eye.  

"You! You dare ruin my fun you! Just wait until my father hears of this and I'll have your rank pulled for this!!!"  - Prince Landis Tyrule  

"....Shut up...." - Captain Theodore  

"You!..." - Prince Landis Tyrle  

Captain Theodore continued to take drink from his glass without even looking towards the angry City Lord..... However, not a single person in the room gave this man any respect regardless of his title even if he was the King of Aldain's first son.  

"AAAHhhhhHHHHHHhhhhhhhhHHHH!!! "  

BOOOM!  

Just then a loud ear piercing scream came from outside and Captain Calder appears to be trying to see what is the cause.

Captain Theodore didn't turn around but only made a solemn glare towards the table.  

"Hmph...Well looks like my fun is ruined for this evening because of you. I guess I'll have to go find something else to appease my body while I allow you foreigners entry into my city. Don't you forget who the City Lord is here, I haven't forgotten this! " - Prince Landis Tyrule  

The 30 year old prince then stormed out of the small mansion alongside his fellow guards.  

The scream just now....We had heard it not long after we arrived in this mansion. This Prince to this small Kingdom is merely the blood of a fallen noble. He fancied the new bride of a young man and took her with him even after listening to our reports over the vicious monster sighting in the area.    

The women's screams during what should have been her wedding night was too much for us to listen to especially after all that has happened. Captain Theodore spoke that he would take care of it but I guess the women decided to commit suicide after surviving such an ordeal.  

Noticing my now angry scowl I was making Captain Theodore spoke out.  

"Oh don't worry my dear lieutenant Wyndia. He shant be in power for very much longer....Puppet King's rarely last for longer than their needed....This one hasn't even discovered the real truth to why they were allowed to ascend the throne here....Once a patsy is going to be used it will undoubtedly be him and his father...Oh you look at me as this is news to you? It happens quite often in foreign affairs. Our country is no different..." - Captain Theodore  

"I...I see...."    

"Now, now for now we should just sit and wait. No sense in making a fuss over things...Gulp...Gulp...Ah! Not bad wine actually...." - Captain Theodore  

"Captain Calder spoke how that would be a mistake. You believe we should wait till morning as well? "    

"I do...Us traveling in the den of night with our supplies and rations just to send Myro a message that in all honesty could beat us there....Is suicide. We wait till morning and pray those giant beasts haven't ventured in the direction of our homelands....Our movements at this point after traveling here are now meaningless." - Captain Theodore  

"See, it's suicide...Staying here we at least have a chance." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Oh you mistake my words Captain Zheng. If those beasts do decide to inevitably turn back, which they most likely will as this city is downwind over where they were last seen heading, then we'll really be screwed...gulp..... However, if we left now that wouldn't be good as we would no doubt run into them but if we fled to Myro instead of coming here then maybe we would have had a shot .... Or maybe we could have been wiped out and lead the beasts back home. Honestly whatever we decide to do will have no effect on whatever happens at this time. That alone should give each of you some sort of peace I suppose...." - Captain Theodore  

As Captain Theodore spoke everyone in the room remained quiet thinking over the possibilities of his words we couldn't help but shutter. All that could be heard was the loud rain still pouring down outside.

"Heh...You think they could be coming back this way?...Why didn't you say this before? Hah, you're just trying to scare us....If that's true then why are you so calm. I know for damn sure you wouldn't be trying to get drunk right now either!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Hmm....Yes, it's probably due to this wine not having enough alcohol in it.... But I figure if whatever decision you make is equally as meaningless then you just sit, wait and see what happens...." - Captain Theodore  

"I still think we should leave...." - Captain Calder

"Heh! Go ahead and go no one won't stop ya." - Captain Zhengtilly

As Captain Calder turned away from the window he looked towards Zhengtilly with a fire in his eyes as if he was looking at something that disgusted him.

"Do you not care for your own countrymen? All those muscles don't amount for much huh?." - Captain Calder

"Careful there ranger... I just might have to come over there and teach ya a lesson." - Captain Zhengtilly

I didn't have any response for these two captain's words. The tensions were starting to tear away at each of us....I honestly just wish I could be back at home. Even trying to take over the family business wouldn't seem quite so bad anymore.  

Repeatedly thinking of what I could do a loud noise came from outside and even shook the entire room.  

ROAAARRRRRRRRRRRrrrrRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

You have heard the Roar of the Fomorian

Due to the Effects of your Leadership some of your Fear has been Diminished.

You were unable to succumb to your Fear and have become momentarily paralyzed!

Agility has been reduced by 35%

Strength has been reduced by 25%

* Ability to perform magic has diminished due to the effects of fear. Magic has become 20% less effective

* Ability to hold a weapon has diminished due to the effects of fear. Overall Attack Damage has been reduced by 33%  

'….....It's happening....They're......they're back....gulp....n..no....It's going to happen....a....again...'  

We each looked towards the window where Captain Calder was standing and all he could do was stare with his eyes wide looking outside.  

"…..Time to go.......Now!" - Captain Calder  

With those words we each stood up even though we each looked like we had heard the cries of the dreaded Reapers from Hades had come to drag us to the Netherworld.  

"….Lieutenant Wyndia come let's leave, pull yourself together!" - Captain Theodore  

Captain Theodore came and shook my shoulders and I had shaken awake from my fear and he started to fiercely grip my arm and pull me to come along with him.    

Each and everyone of us in the room tried to run through the confines of the small mansion and out the front door to the courtyard where the extent of what was left of our troops were stationed.  

Our hearts continued to thump out of our chests when a loud scream that seemed to have come from the world itself caused each of those fleeing next to me to stop and shutter.  

YEAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!H!!H!H!H!H  

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!!  

Not long after the ear shattering scream came a loud boom causing the entire small city to shake.    

'We....we...have to flee now.'  

After the large boom the earth below our feet stopped shaking and I could feel my heart begin to race. This was it and if I couldn't gain control over my fear now we may all fall here.  

I took a deep breath and raised my voices for all under our command to hear.

"To the horses! All troops prepare to retreat out the West gate of the city! We flee West back to Myro immediatley! Let's move!"    

None beside me had any objections and we each burst from our positions and ran towards our Blazing steeds and took out our battle equipment in case the inevitable were to occur.  

"And what of the people of this city? Should we not assist the citizens here to escape the city as well? " - Captain Calder  

"...There's no hope for them we can only hope they can make it out of the city and pray to the Gods for a merciful judgment. In case you forgot our attacks are meaningless to those two demonic creatures and would be no different than throwing our lives away. If you wish to stay that is on your own soul my friend. But you will only be met with a much sooner death." - Captain Theodore  

I couldn't speak back to Captain Calder's worries. I too wish there were a way to provide assistance to this small city but if we were to be wiped out and Myro were unable to receive word to prepare themselves....    

I gritted my teeth and clutched onto the reigns... This caused Scorching Envy to brighten her flames and permeate around herself and I. Even though I have such low affinity with fire my bond with Scorching Envy allows only me to survive her fierce flames without any harm to myself at all.  

Even under the constant downpour of the strong winds and rain her fire will never be put out unless in the event of her death. These flames have always protected me as our bond together is undoubtedly strong.  

I could hear screams and loud wails coming from the distance behind the Manor gates and could only lower my head in shame. I can only pray they can escape to safety as well, we simply don't have the ability to help them at this point anymore. Sometimes we have to make difficult decisions and they're never easy.

Just as we were all mobilized and prepared to flee out the front gate of the small City Lord's Manor a lone figure appeared right in front of our means of escape. It were as if even through the pouring rain the loan figure stood strong and didn't move and inch. The figure looked large and had bright silver eyes but appeared to be carrying something massive hunched over his back towering over his oddly shaped head.  

"Ah...Who is..." - Captain Theodore  

"….How did that thing get there?" - Captain Calder  

"You speak like it isn't human. How can you tell?"    

I peered over my shoulder to where Captain Calder was in the formation but he simply stared in shock at this large dark figure standing by the front gate, while sitting atop his blazing stallion.

"....Are you kidding look at it....That thing's big. Too big to be a human." - Captain Calder

'I don't quite see it...It's just a shadowy figure but due to the dark clouds overhead it's quite hard to make out the shape of the figure let alone its size under the cover of the night.'

"Who goes there?!! Do you even know who you're blocking the way of? We are from the great Kingdom of Myro and are taking our leave of the city! Can't you see it is under attack by vicious beasts? You need to flee! Now get out of our way before you become trampled to death ya hear?!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

The loan figure didn't speak but only continued to stare towards each of us with his brightly shining eyes.  

HHHOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

"What?"    

Each of the three Captain's and myself immediately tried to cover our ears as an incredible loud roar came from the loan figure and almost caused my whole body to shake slightly. A large lightning bolt appeared right behind the figure illuminated his large oddly shaped body and I could see a slight white glow around him.  

"Shit! What is that thing? " - Captain Theodore  

"Heh, well no less we still need to.....Eh...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

Just then the faces of each of the Captains opened wide and I turned to look forward. There were now 3 pairs of eyes and figures standing in the intense downpour and staring back towards us.  

'Wha....What f...four?'    

I blinked and then another figure appeared just next to the three.....How did? How did they get there?  

"Ho...."  

Just as I was just about to speak the four figures slowly walked forward and I could hear a growl coming from out in front of us. Where is this sound coming from? Is that sound coming from them?  

Just as I was about to give the command to attack thinking these to obviously be our enemies their appearances finally emerged close enough to where our torches could beam towards their white faces.

Each of them had white long hair and large white ears above their heads getting drenched in the storm. They were big, no other way to describe them. At least two heads taller than any man with the muscles definition of a supreme expert.  

The two female demi humans beside them too looked quite tall and looked equally as intimidating as the two wolves standing next to them holding large weapons at their sides.

".... Beast Men? Kinda look like a Lycanthia's but....I don't think I've seen a variant like this before. Anyone got any eyes to tell us anything anymore?" - Captain Theodore

"White wolf demi humans? Fuck those things are big.....The females are simply enchanting though...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"....I don't think these guys are nobodies. Look at the sword on that one's back. They don't look like simple enemies either they got within our perimeter without me noticing at all. Don't take them lightly. Let's see what they want...." - Captain Calder  

Sensing a looming crisis I asked to find out what their level might be.  

"What's there level? Intel unit Report?"    

"Ah, that unit was practically wiped out. I can try to see some but I'm not getting a level from either of them which is bad.... There called Annunakes... Huh I've never heard of them....There old too close to a 100 but I'm not getting anything else they each appear to have titles though but I can't see them." - Captain Theodore  

As Captain Theodore pushed up his glasses and looked forward he too seemed to be equally as troubled by this fact as I was.  

"What? How is that possible? Then what level could that mean they are for you not to see anything?"    

"PPooooutttt.....Yooooourrr...Weapppponnnsss...Dooooowwwnnnnnn.........."  

We heard a deep voice coming from one of them and the one holding the massive sword over his back started to speak very strangely.  

"Orrr.....Diiieeeeeeeee......."    

As he spoke those last words in one fluid motion he pulled out the massive object from behind his back and fluidly swung it towards us which sent a shiver crawl down my spine and caused my legs to shake into Scorching Envy's sides.  

The large brightly silver weapon on his back was even bigger than he was but he wielded it with only one arm. As he swung it towards each of us a large gust of wind flung forward and pushed past each of our faces as if the weight alone could cause small storms. This for some reason made the rain currently hitting my back start to feel much more cold.

'How heavy could that weapon be for him to be holding onto it like that? Could these be strong figures appearing before us right now?'  

"Wait! I don't hear anything from those giant creatures anymore nor have there been anymore earthquakes.... Maybe....Maybe these things are with them. Look how calm they are..... No way they couldn't be aware of those giants attacking such a small city." - Captain Calder  

Captain Calder shakingly pointed his fingers towards the four figures and spoke as if this too could be a possibility.    

We started to hear howls and screams coming from behind the City Lord's walls but like Captain Calder said not a single sound from that giant beast could be heard at all. The ground too continued to stand still.... Could these things be with those nightmarish beasts that ate all of my comrades?  

"There's only four of em and they're not even wearing any armor.....Let me take care of it Captain Zhengtilly. Each of you should retreat outside the city, I shall try to accompany you when I am done holding them off and providing cover for Lieutenant Wyndia and our commanding officers.... First Battalion on me!" - Elite Inferno Knight Horand  

Leaping from his bright red stallion he left the protection of its flames and pulled out his large claymore hoisted up over his back.  

"Roger!"    

"Let's take them down! "    

"I'll show these demi human's who can fight with a great sword. Shield units behind me and provide cover..... Captain we will try to meet up with you as quickly as we are able....We can at least hold them off for a few minutes if we are unable to vanquish them. " - Elite Inferno Knight Horand  

"Thank you Horand. Your courage is appreciated and we bid you a safe journey out of the city. Everyone come with me and flank around the sides of the First Battalion as they provide us the opportunity to move for Myro!"  

On my command everyone raised their weapons and waited for Elite Inferno Knight Horand to keep these four busy. Even if they are strong with the strength of the shield units and archers behind them they will be unable to gain an advantage. His level is 189 and is highly respected by all those in the Inferno Knights Corpse. He has a commanding courage and true love for his Kingdom which has rewarded him much favor by General Warren and even the King.  

There's rumors his sword strength is enough to rip straight through an iron shield in one swing. He was one of the oldest in the Elite Inferno Knight Corps and lead troops into dozens of battles already and has gained quite a deal of fame within the unified armies.  

"Hehe...Listen here demi human! If you just would have left maybe we wouldn't have had to get forceful with ya. I see you got some talent with that blade....How's about you come show me?"  - Elite Inferno Knight Horand  

Horand continued to swing his large sword and revealed a beautiful mastery and powerful strike with each swing and pointed it back towards the large two legged wolfman.  

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr...ha ha ha.......  

The figure who pointed his sword at us then started to growl in such a way it echoed through the incoming rain, followed by what sounded like a short laugh. As the shield units started to circle around Knight Horand in the shape of a horseshoe they provided us an option to slip past the gate. We followed around each side on the shield wall awaiting the opportunity to flee the city hoping to spread our numbers so regardless of what threat these four may hold we can potentially reduce our casualties and get word back to Myro.  

CrackkKK!!!!!!  

BOOOOOOOOOOoooooOOOOOOOOM!  

An explosion tore through the area and the Lord's Manor behind us rumbled as if it were hit with the power of one of our new War Balista's invented by Lord Adel and partially started to crash down on one of its sides.  

I looked back to where the fight was happening and noticed now there was one figure missing from in front of the shield wall. I looked around until I had noticed that Knight Horand had disappeared. All that was left was the large muscular wolf standing in the middle of the large walled formation.  

It was still raining hard and now there was clearly a visible blood stain on his humongous sword which slowly dripped onto the ground creating a muddy puddle below its feet.  

"AHahahaha....Med..iocre!" - ?  

The wolf started to laughed and shake its head while looking to the ground oddly.  

"What...where is Knight Horand?" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"….I couldn't even see him move. We....gulp...we have to flee now or we're all going to be wiped out! There's probably more of them in the city. -  Captain Calder  

Just as Captain Calder was about to finish his sentence the same wolfman made a movement and then I could see those currently holding position in the shield wall out in front turned into a bloody mist. Screachingly horrid yells came from the several meters away and I could see the shield wall crumble so effortlessly.  

Each of those in front began to back away subconsciously as this large demi human moved at such speeds even from here I was only able to see clearly. I was met with a brief image of him swinging his towering weapon and left with the pieces of my comrades that were cleaved in two.  

The image of the wolf then appeared several meters away and swung his great sword again severing three men who were holding their large square shields and spears. Each of them were severed from them their shoulders up with one powerful swing from this large wolf.....  

'No damage was done nor was there any time to defend at all....It was just death with a single swing. Our armor and shields were practically meaningless and ripped in half along with each of our men's bodies...'  

Each of the other officers faces as well as mine was completely frozen by this simple exchange that turned into a one way massacre. Arrows were even being fired but nothing even came close to hitting him. We could each see a slight white blur but the movements were so quick so perfect. We were unable to even see him until the white wolfman had already left the scene with a bloody result. With only a few swings of his massive sword, each of their lives were ended one by one.  

None of us were even capable of following his horrific speed and within moments he started to move into the formation of shield users and continued to kill mercilessly. Not even shielding themselves or attempting to deflect such a tyrannical weapon as it would do no good. This simple exchange is causing the air to slowly escape its way out of my lungs.

"Ho...how?....so......strong?" - Captain Theodore  

"…......"  

BOoom!  

Splat  

I was shocked from my frozen state as the Knight riding in front of me, had his head explode and shower me in a rain of blood.  

His body leaned back and I could now see a large spear had landed straight on the soldiers head and killed him instantly.  

As his body fell over I then saw the image of a female demi human appearing not far in front. She had a long braid coming down the side of her hair and was holding onto a similar spear than the one that just killed the man in front of me.  

She looked emotionless and started walking rather menacingly towards our small unit of mounted troops with a evil grin.  

"Move...Everyone move out! Retreat now! Lieutenant it's either now or never!" Captain Calder  

"Create a path forward. Knights it's time to flee! If they get in front just mow them over!"    

Everyone started to strike at their steeds sides to escape and hopefully push past these incredibly strong warriors who have appeared out of nowhere. 'Just what else could go wrong.'  

I continued to hear horrendous screams coming from the our troops trying to fend off the attacks of these strong foes but it were as if it were all meaningless. Elite Knight Horand offered us a few minutes if they were unable to win but he didn't even last a single strike and his condition at this point is unknown.  

The mounts of each of the Captains and myself started to flutter and blaze around us and our speed started to accelerate towards the gate entrance and now we could see the other figures begin to move.  

White blurs began to flash with each light strike in the sky and by the time I noticed someone had fallen their images had disappeared.  

The three Captains and myself were guarded by a small unit of what was left of the Elite guard and just as we were about to reach the gate a quick image swept past me leapt through the air and onto Captain Calder.  

Within an instant his figure disappeared out of my view and fell behind but I could hear the loud screams attacking my ear drums.

"Ah...Damnit my arm!!! You want to kill me!!! AHhhHh!!!" - Captain Calder  

I clutched my teeth together and tried to speed up and then coming from behind me was another blur and Captain Theodore was pulled to the side along with his steed crashing to the ground.    

"AHhhhhHH!H!!!!!......" - Captain Theodore  

I could feel tears streaming from my eyes but I kept clenching my teeth and praying Scorching Envy can get up to her full stride.  

I continued forward and just as I passed the gate I could start to see fires in the distance of the small city and hear the loud cries of its citizens.  

I turned the corner to freedom and could feel Scorching Envy take off and our speed was simply unmatched. Everything around us on the city streets started to turn into a blur and I could feel us tearing straight through the city until we could gain freedom.  

I could feel her giving every possible effort to her master's pleas and with every kick of my heel her flames grew even larger. Everything throughout the city was in utter chaos and I also caught glimpses of each of those large white wolves.  

As I started nearing the edge of the city I looked back and immediately started to feel the sweat pour down my forehead.  

Those same white blurs I could see advancing on our position and within a moment darted around the sides and out in front of Scorching Envy and I.  

I was horrified by their speed as these demi humans were impossibly fast. With just their legs they were able to catch up with Scorching Envy?  

'How is this possible?!!!"  

They moved out in front of us and I tried to turn away but they had turned back around and darted back toward my position.  

They moved to quick for me to say a magic incantation so I tried to pull out my short sword and defend myself but by the time my hand reached for the scabbard I could feel a powerfully heavy force attack my breast and throw me away from Scorching Envy.  

BOOoooooOOOM!  

I landed on the ground and once I tried to reach for my weapon I could feel my arm being crushed..  

"AHhhhHHhhHHHH!!!!"  

I could feel an incredible heavy weight forcing my down into the ground and my right shoulder was heavily wounded with a spear possibly passing completely through it.  

I was in shock and within each blink of my eyes I could see the same white haired demi human holding a large sword alongside the female with braided white hair and they had each been my pursuers.  

"I, who command the power over the rushing winds and power over the law of .a.ahahahhhhH!HH!H!!!!!!"  

The image of the braided demi human appeared before me and shoved her large spear into my other shoulder and impaled me farther into the dirt.

In one motion my body became weightless and lifted off of the ground.  

My body was in an unimaginable amount of pain and I couldn't even think straight. All I knew is this was the same person who threw that spear and she must have had amazing training to be able to lift me up with such little effort.  

Her silver eyes gleamed back at me as my blood started to drip down onto the ground in front of her and I could only awate the inevitable.  

She didn't smile nor did she frown. She made a quick motion of her arm and I could feel my body thrown down and slamming into the earth below me.  

BOOOooooOOOM!  

The air had been completely taken out of my lungs and I couldn't breath. As I tried to speak for mercy I could hear a crack and then my brain was again invaded with a tremendous amount of pain I had never felt before in my young life.  

Cracckkk!  

Crack!!!!!!!  

AAHhhHHHHHH!H!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

"MMmmmm.....ahhahhhHH!HH!!! YOU...you....nnnnnnnn!!!!!"  

The female demi human had then broken each of my legs by crushing my knees with a swift stomp of her powerful feet..  

She had actually ruthlessly shattered my legs and immobilized me!  

I continued to try and curse the ones who had done this to us. Who had dared to attack the Kingdom of Myro so openly and viciously but I could hardly even think straight with how cold my body was starting to become. I was unable to cope with tremendous amounts of pain searing through my entire body.  

I knew that by the distance of the screams I was the only one to have made it this far and out of the city....With my death it would have meant the entire annihilation of the Myro troop sent on this mission.  

"You'll...you'll...receive....jus...jushitish.....for.....thish......"  

The two demi humans did not speak at all and remained motionless and unmoved as my vision continued to fade in and out until everything went dark.  

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------  

".......please....please...please let us go. We didn't do anything!" - ?  

"Why are you doing this?" - ?  

"You'll pay for this! You here! When the King gets back he'll have your heads!" - ?  

"I said......SILENCEEEEEEE!..............................." - ?  

I could vaguely hear the sounds of loud chatter coming in and out and just as I was about to open my eyes a loud voice reverberated in my ears and caused my entire body to violently shake. Even through all of this unbearable pain this voice alone caused my whole body to shutter. I heard two distinct voices one human the other.....not.  ' I...I don't want to open my eyes........Who could that voice possibly belong to?'    

As I started opening my eyes I could see the horrid sight of my comrades who had been laid out in front of me. Each and everyone of their states were truly appalling and not one of them had light injuries.  

Captain Zhengtilly had been laid out several feet in front of me and had heavy wounds all over his body while also missing his left eye. His shoulder also looked badly wounded and looked to have had bite marks all over him.  

Captain Calder was laying on his side facing me and dully trying to look in front of him. He had three large gashes in his face and looked to be dying.  

Captain Theodore was laying on his back and staring up towards the sky and remained motionless as if he were already dead.  

Everyone had their armor and weapons removed or in tatters. Each of our bodies were broken and I could see that each of them were unable to move even if they had tried.  

"Lieutenant....Ugh....Wyndia....What's your status? Are your legs broke too? Hah......." - Captain Calder  

"My legs are indeed broken.....What? What happened to Captain Theodore? Is he...."    

"He's alive but...." - Captain Calder  

"Cough...Cough..cough.....I.thin....i..i think........my back's...broken......cough cough...." - Captain Theodore  

Captain Theodore then continued to cough up blood onto his chest and I could see from here his body were lightly shaking. Each and everyone of us had our health in the red and were unable to even attempt to escape. I could see that lying around us were less than a dozen of our men remaining and weren't in any better condition than we were. Our fates were sealed.......  

"Cough...cough...You'll pay....You'll pay for doing this to me you bastards!!!!! Do you know who my father is?! Huh? Once he gets back here you're all dead! 15,000 troops coming here to slaughter you ahhhhH!!!!!!" - Prince Tyrule  

A loud bang occurred and I looked up to find the City Lord over this small city being thrown out in front of me and the large crowd of villagers and guards currently shaking on their knees. Each of them had their hands raised over their heads and were cowering in fear over the emergence of these strong warriors. Even some of the top fighters in all of Myro were turned into such a ridiculous state by whoever these people are.  

Standing over the Prince was a female demi human like before and had viciously beat the Prince. His face was almost unrecognizable from before. His cheeks were swollen and had blood coming out of small cuts all over his face. It looked like it was impossible for him even to see as his face was almost completely swollen beyond recognition.    

"AH...eh...ghgh...acouch...ghg...." - Prince Tyrule

He continued to cough up blood and teeth and sounded just from his squirming to be in a lot of pain.

"Where are we?"    

Captain Calder then spoke that we were in a small arena in the center of the city and when he awoke he found all the villagers and those living her being gathered here by the same race as before but also......This person.  

As he spoke I looked forward and there stood a dark cloaked figure of a white haired human. He was standing next to a large crowd of what looked like villagers and was kneeling beside a young child who looked to have been crying.

There were also strange looking short demi humans near him, some looked to even be on fire.

He wore black pants and a black shirt and had a hood over himself to cover his face from the rain. According to Calder whoever this cloaked figure is he believes to be the leader judging by how each of the others are treating him.  

The white haired leader then looked towards the screaming Prince and looked back towards him angrily.

"Did you not hear me?!!!Cough...couhg.... I said 15,000 soldiers from Aldain coming here to kill you all? Don't you care who I am! said I'm the first Prince of Aldain!" - Prince Tyrule  

"Oh, I heard you......It's just that I don't care. Why else would I have hit you so hard before after you were screaming those very same words. Do you think they hold much more weight now?" - ?  

 ".......gulp." - Prince Tyrule

"Your voice is however starting to annoy me....It's sleepy time for now." - ?

The white haired man spoke and a loud lightning bolt appeared in the sky behind him and the same demi humans from before.    

BooooOOM!  

A loud roaring sound came from the side of the Prince's head and forced him to the ground where he was now kneeling on the ground with a puddle of blood next to him.    

Whatever the man had done to him he is now unconscious and I am uncertain if he is even breathing.  

"You'll pay for this you murderer! " - ?  

"You...you monster! So many innocent citizens killed! I pray the God's punish you for your wicked crimes!" - ?  

"You'll burn in the lowest pits of the Underworld for this! Do you hear me!" - ?  

"There will be JUSTICE!" - ?  

One voice started to ring out one after the other from the frightened crowd and the white haired man just started laughing rather manically.  

"Ahaha! You know what monster.....You're probably right. But innocent citizens? Wicked crimes to be punished by the Gods? As if such depraved and truly the dregs of this world could dare ask for the Gods justice for anything is simply astonishing to me..... Just the short sightedness of these words make me not want to spare a single one of you........" - ?  

Gulp.....  

The sounds of each and everyone of us here started to gulp quietly to themselves. With our current injuries those of us from Myro are simply helpless to whatever fate this group is prepared to give to us. The hundreds of us who had no ability to stop this person from killing us we could only hold our tongues and pray for mercyful fate.  

'Does this person command each of those large wolves?.....Who is this person? What is he truly after? How powerful could he be to command such a strong demi force? There, doesn't look to be that many though here only a couple dozen at most.....'  

"Who's the leader of this city?............SPEAK!!!" - ?  

Everyone of the citizens started to cower back but there behind them stood a wall of tall and powerful demi humans that were the same who attacked us from before.  

I looked around and also saw on the other side there stood a lot of small glowing demi humans as well standing next to the kneeling citizens of Aldain.  

"He ...he he is s...sir...." -?  

A large bulbous old man pointed frighteningly to the now unconscious Prince and didn't dare to make any sudden movements.    

"This person? Is no one else in charge of this garbage city other than this idiot right here?!!? - ?  

The same old man from before shakingly said that he was the city mayor and tried to ask what it was that he wanted with everyone of the villagers while trying best to humble himself first. But to these words the white haired man didn't say a word but only stared back at him even more aggressively than before....  

 Just the look coming from this intimidating figure caused the large old man to start shaking even more.

"Si...sir? I hear there were sightings....of ..of...large beasts attacking...the cities....If right now we are here....then...surely they might..." - Mayor  

"The giant beasts you speak of are dead but you need to be much more worried about me than those things........You!.....How FUCKING DARE YOU!" - ?  

As the enemy leader pointed his finger at the old man I felt like the air itself had started to involuntarily leave my lungs. It was as if a large rich blackness started fly out from this figure and sweep all around us.

An intense weight came crashing down on top of me as if the weight of a small mountain were forcing me to the ground.  

You have become Paralyzed with Fear from a Dark Soul.  

You will be unable to move until Paralysis is withered or you have succumbed to your Fear.  

All Stats have now been reduced by 15%  

Mana Recovery has now been Reduced by 10%  

You are under the effects of your Fear  

All Attack Power has been reduced by 20%  

All Attack Speed has been reduced by 15%  

Stamina will now reduce at twice the normal rate.    

For angering one who feasts on the dreaded creatures from the endless Abyss;

Abandon all Hope.  

My whole body shook and I could feel the color leaving my face. What's happening? Is this a skill?!"

Feasts on...what?

The face of the white haired man began to darken and all I could see were a piercing pair of black eyes and a dark shadow masking his face and body. All that I could distinguish from the same person as before was the white hair on top his head.    

I couldn't stop shaking and it looked like the man's whole body had turned into darkness itself. What is this evil entity?! Could this be just an intimidation skill?!

It was as if my body were weakening and the strength this person were exuding were only increasing by leaps and bounds. 'How...how is he doing this.....What sort of power is this? Ha...ha..ha...ha....!'  

Those next to me including the three Captains continued to clench their teeth and shutter not knowing of any possible way of escaping this place. 'Who is he? How could we be unaware of such a strong force of demi humans living on the Continent? Where did these strong warriors even come from?!! Did he actually say he killed those giant beasts????.......What could all of this possibly mean?'  

"I..i...Ugh...Wha? What could............could  you mean?" - Mayor  

The chubby mayor started to shake but couldn't at all find the meaning to this white haired man's words. Was he going to kill everyone here? And what for? So many questions raced through my mind as I looked up to the dark figure standing over all of the cowering citizens.  

"…..We arrive in the city gates.....Come to aid you in fending off those giant monsters you were just speaking of and are met with young children being used as bait by your cities guards while they just sat on top the wall behind cover.....You even used your own citizens fleeing here from one of your other cities and instead of being provided with sanctuary you give them the same treatment because as I was told...they were 'homeless'. As the Mayor over this damned city I DEMAND...some answers to how you could allow this to happen in your town!!!!" - ?  

To his words the cowering citizens continued to shake and an eerie silence took over the small arena. His eyes were mesmerizing but simply made my whole body shutter. It's as if I were staring at evil incarnate and am unable to even run away.

"I...I wouldn't possibly...." - Mayor  

"Don’t you fucking dare try to say you were unaware of this or I'll take your head right here....." - ?  

"…....." - Mayor  

These few words which almost seemed to echo in a deep and inhuman tone sounded like we were standing in the presence of something not from our world at all but something ancient.  

The Mayor sat quietly and didn't dare to utter a sound as he couldn't find the words to appease this angry man in front of him.  

'Could this...Could this possibly be why he attacked the city? Truly the deeds of this town are soaked in carnal lusts and depraved atrocities but I was unaware that these guards would do such inhuman acts and demand for justice right afterwards....If?...if this is the only reason then maybe...Maybe there is a chance for us all to survive this. Maybe...Maybe we can...'  

Just as I was thinking this to myself one of the city guards quite close to me spoke up.  

"You...You mean the slaves?....Wha...What does that matter? We used the citi.......we.....we used the some of the citizens shitty property to defend her walls so we could have a chance to survive.....And..you can't prove about the....ah...ugh...Why should that matter to some outsider about what belongs to.... ....... You...you....yu....." - City Guard  

The white haired man then turned his darkly clouded face and stared daggers towards the city guard who had just spoke.  

This simple action caused the same guard to now freeze and didn't dare move a muscle.  

"Alderon...."  

The white haired man moved his head and within an instant the same guards head had been lopped off his body.  

To this amazingly fast action no one had any words to say and were left shaking in despair. No one wished to attain this person's wrath as he clearly didn't care to beat the City Lord which was also the Prince of the very Kingdom he's standing in.  

'How merciless....'  

"Heh..I thought he would just rough him up some but that works too...If I hear one more stupid thing from you primates I'm really going to fucking lose it!...... To all those who have the power to pick up a sword should have the resolve to be stabbed and you dare show such cowardice as the City Guards! Guardians who are suppose to put the lives of others above their own, each of you throw away lives so easily...Refugees from your own Kingdom's cities flee here to seek refuge and instead of providing them sanctuary and assistance you throw them out as bait for monsters?.....To all those from the Kingdom of Aldain! You ask for justice from the Gods but I say to each of you now......The Gods will not ever listen to those with such vicious natures such as yourselves so your cries will only fall on deaf ears......To the Guild of Snearing Ogres which are pretty much all of the guards in this city I speak to each of you thieves....murderers, kidnappers, sex traffickers, rapists! For the crimes against the innocent, the young, and most definitely the world itself ever since coming to rule over the original village of Anston. I don't even have the want to explain all of your crimes out loud but we're both aware of what they are....How do you plea? " - ?  

To these words no one made a single movement and couldn't stop staring towards the dark figure ahead of us. The rain continued to pour down and I could feel my body becoming even colder. Then a familiar voice came from my right breaking the silence of the crowds.  

"Hey! You! We're not from here! I am Captain Zhengtilly emissary to the Kingdom of Myro...We are high ranking officers in the King's Elite army and you dare treat us with such disrespect! Do you wish for war! " - Captain Zhengtilly  

"….Oh Myro huh..... Hehe what a small world it is......Is this true?" - ?  

As he looked towards each of us I tried my best to tell him where we were from and confirm Captain Zhengtilly's words hopefully to escape death this night. My heart started to race simply being stared at by this person whose face is masked behind a cloud of blackness I simply wish for all this to be over.

As I told him we were originally headed to Aldain in accordance with our command his figure then twitched and looked in my direction.  

"And what were you coming to the small Kingdom of Aldain for I wonder?" - ?  

"We...we......we were on orders to find information on a masked man carrying a large scythe....We we were only passing through when those ….those giant creatures attacked our troops and sought sanctuary here in Aldain.....We ...we really have no fault with you or what you are doing here sir...So if we may please just leave if, or receive treatment that would be......"    

All of a sudden I started to shake yet again causing me to stutter. I bit my lip attempting it to stop but it wouldn't work. I was terrified of this person for some reason. He's the boss of those things that have practically crippled each of us....They killed those colossal fiends? I'm simply terrified I can't even fully process what it all is going on.  

"…......" - ?  

"You mean the villain who attacked Aldain's outer village?"  - ?  

"I...I heard he was like a demon and killed all the spectators simply for being at the Coliseum that day..." - ?  

"You're wrong! I was there....He was like a Death God who descended from the skies....All those who got in his way received divine judgment! All those who even got close to the rubble afterwards fell awfully ill and some died. He was obviously a messenger of the gods come to save his suffering people!" - ?  

"That's impossible!" - ?  

"Is it? Where you there?!"- ?  

Some of those from Aldain started to speak up but this white haired man never stopped looking away from me and those of us from Myro now for some reason.  

Other than I and the three Captains, no one was aware that he was also the person who had killed General Lestat earlier this week but none of us are sure of who the man's true identity might be. And we don't have much information other than his weapon and possible whereabouts. Those higher up believed this person needed to be dealt with but only upon our travel here did I find the entire story strange to send so many troops after this one criminal.  

The dark figure just stood there and quietly stared back at me with that blisteringly strong gaze. Just then the violent weight pushing me down and feeling attacking my skin stopped and I felt I could breath much better. I wanted to smile but then a frightening laughter came from the white haired man as his face began to become visible again.  

"AHaHAHAHAAHAHA!!!!!!" ?  

"Aren't...Aren't you their leader?...Do...Do you not fear Myro?!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

" I suppose I am...But we're a far away from home aren't we Captain from Myro? I don't think your Kingdom can help you all the way out here do you?" - ?  

These words felt like a hammer had struck down on each of our heads as this person was clearly a lunatic! He beat the prince of the nation he is standing in to such a horrid degree and doesn't even care of who he offends or attacks. Even words of the mighty Mryo who reigns stronger than any Kingdom on the Continent only causes this person to laugh.  

 "Are you MAD?! Do you not fear what could happen to you and your people for treating high ranking officers of Myro like this! Do you not fear losing your head!!!" - Captain Zhengtilly

"Hmph....I suppose not." - ?

"You're a lunatic! If...If you won't provide us ….assistance and sanctuary....I bear the right of CHALLENGE!!!!!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

We each looked back towards the broken appearance of Captain Zhengtilly as he attempted to rise but it was clear he was in a lot of pain.  

"…....Excuse me?" - ?  

"I said I bear the right of challenge! Or do you not dare? Cough..cough...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Right of challenge? And what might that entail exactly ? "  - ?  

The dark figure then looked towards Zhengtilly and then approached his shaking figure and asked what that exactly is.  

'Has he really never heard of this term before? Maybe he is a foreigner?'  

Captain Theodore tried to stop Zhengtilly from doing this but the Captain then tried to stand on his one healthy leg and stuck out his large muscular chest.  

"We have a fight just the two of us as leaders over our men. If I win.....you must let myself and those from my Kingdom go. We are warriors from Myro and are not a party to the sins that were committed here. If I must challenge you in a battle to the death than I must....It is our words as men that make us different than monsters..." - Captain Zhengtilly  

 "Doesn't seem so beneficial for me the results would simply stay the same." - ?

"...Coward. Is that why you sicked your dogs on us? Simply hiding behind you're warriors...All of you will however meet your end under the hands of our King who commands the strength of the Continent at his fingertips. But you will only receive a cowards death. Taking off your head and leaving it for all to see in the City Square of the Capital, while your body is simply fed to the dogs." - Captain Zhengtilly

All of those who were listening were simply frozen listening to Captain Zhengtilly's taunts and hadn't any idea what it was he had in mind going from not saying a word to threatening this person.

The dark figure however hadn't spoken a word for a long time before showing such an odd reaction.

Again the dark shadow disappeared from his face and there stood the image of a young man laughing hysterically.  

"Ahahahahahahaha!!! Such interesting words to the person whose in control of your lives isn't it? Very well then I agree...If you win I'll let all of those from Myro leave....But with how beat you look how's about I fix you up first so I'm not bullying anyone." - ?  

'His face was smooth and he looked far too young to be someone with such imposing power that surrounded him. He's clearly a mage of the dark arts....But I can't even fathom just how strong....'

The fare faced man then began to wave his arms and a golden light approached and circled around Captain Zhengtilly. His health started to rise gradually until almost being close to full.    

His cuts and bruises were even gone and showed to have powerful healing magic. Simple health potions only add to your health but healing magic is something that actually can heal and mend wounds and stop infections. It's why Priests and Medics are so sought after.  

"Am...cough..cough....amazing..."  

It was at this moment my jaw had opened wide and I couldn't help myself but shiver.....' No...no...He has voiceless incantations in something as Holy as Healing magic? Never on this Continent has that ever been seen before nor in my entire life had I seen it either...Even some of the Cardinals and Bishops in some of the many churches of Myro aren't capable of such an incredible feet. Who is this person? Where could he have come from because it can't be from this Continent? That much is impossible! He is clearly a very important person with a lot of influence.'  

No wonder he acts so confident....But if he's only a mage in Healing magic then how is he possibly giving orders to such strong demi humans? Let alone where did he learn that creepy skill that drapes dark shade around him like that....

That part still doesn't add up. Perhaps he is stronger than he looks... Zhengtilly needs to not underestimate this foe.

"Heh....My leg's even better now.....Hmhmhmhm....." - Captain Zhengtilly  

Captain Zhengtilly now appeared to be healthy and was applying pressure on his other leg and looking confident. His eye was still missing but the rest of his body had looked to being close to a full recovery.  

He looked back at the white haired man from before and said in a confident tone.  

"…...No weapons or magic!....Just our fists and fight it out as men of valor....Or do you not dare to fight me mage?" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Ho....I suppose I dare. Let's see where all this confidence of yours comes from." - ?  

The enemy leader then took off his dark cloak and underneath held only a black long sleeved tight skinned shirt. He had a muscular frame but not nearly as large as Captain Zhengtilly's, who was older than him by at least a decade.  If compared to Zhengtilly, even if this person is at least 50 levels higher than him then Zhengtilly would still pose a threat to him. This person must have a class fit for a mage so he wouldn't have the ability to defend against something like Falkner Zhengtilly's martial arts.

"Hehe...You don't wish to adorn any armor? I wouldn't blame you if you were scared. I've killed a well over a hundred men with just these hands...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Mmm trying to get a rise out of me?....But no need, I don't need to where any armor anyways the result would just be the same. Besides were not fighting with weapons just our fists as men of valor right?..... Funny you try to bait me in such a way and you’re the one adorned in a full set of armor. I applaud the effort your giving though by the way in all of this...." - ?  

"Heh...My armors practically in tatters cause of your dogs, I'd much rather fight with my spear but this'll do....It's only because my fists can be considered just as dangerous as any sword boy but if you feel confident then I won't stop ya.....I'm Captain Falkner Zhengtilly of Great General Warren the Red's Elite Infernal Blood Knight Guard that have formed history on this Continent. The great Horseman of Blood to Lord Adel and Knight to the Kingdom of Myro and who do I have the honor of dueling today...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"That's quite the long intro ya got there. Oh no one just a concerned citizen of the world is all.... " - ?  

"AHA! You expect me to believe that. From what land do you hail from mage. Healing magic like you just showed is something that has peaked my interest. Why a rogue from Freya's church would show up. I merely wish to know of my own curiosity?" - Captain Zhengtilly    

'Wait...Church of Freya?'

"Wha...what does he mean by that?" - Captain Calder

"Haha....I hail from the country of America. Quite far away from here mind you I doubt any of ever heard of it....." - ?  

"Must be a small Human Kingdom if I've never heard of it....Heh! What is this some power grab from the Great West trying to snatch other's territory out here in our side of the world?..." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Actually my country is one of the strongest countries in the whole world..... Built on a reputation of bloodshed and war since the day of its birth. But my place of origin has nothing to do with why I'm standing before you today...." - ?  

"Hmph...If it's so mighty then how come I've never heard of it great mage?" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Never said it was your world now did I......Now come, show me how a warrior from Myro can use his fists....Cause from what I've seen so far from you and those dumb Horseman you speak so highly about, seem to do more speaking than fighting.....Perhaps you shall too not end up much differently than he did....Lestat was it?" - ?  

Within a blink his image had left and I heard a whisper coming from behind Captain Zhengtilly as the dark figure emerged. Just before Zhengtilly could react however the enemy leader had again emerged just as he did before. Simple the feeling around him is something I've never felt before. How Zhengtilly is so confident I can't possibly understand.  

If it wasn't pouring rain constantly in my face and hair I would honestly be sweating non stop.

I admit he is only a mage class but the simple vibe I'm getting from him is very mysterious. His words were each like daggers with the amount of disdain he shown the Heroes of our country and the strongest figures on the Continent.  

"…..." - Captain Zhengtilly  

These words caused all those who heard it to twitch....  Zhengtilly however looked as if he had just seen a ghost.  

'Wait...What did he say? He even spoke so harshly of General Valentine as if he were speaking of the once famed Hero of Myro were simply beneath him. As if all of those from Myro and Aldain were beneath him.... '  

"How? Ah....how does he know about General Valentine?" - Captain Theodore

"....I don't...I don't know..."  

I didn't have the answer for him but my mind wasn't given any time to think as Captain Zhengtilly had then spoke up again to the enemy leader with loud roars that competed with the thunders raining down overhead the arena.  

"General Lestat Valentine was a hero and will be remembered for his glorious tributes to the Kingdom of Myro.....You dare speak such words about a fallen hero have you no shame! You deserve death for such heresy.... And by my words as Captain I'll kill you this day or my name is no longer Falkner Zhengtilly!!!!!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

With a loud roar Captain Zhengtilly started sprinting towards the dark cloaked man. Captain was much larger than him by at least a foot and held the upper hand in a head on attack with this unnamed person. Captain was known for his overwhelming power with a spear but not quite as much was his expertise in Hand to Hand combat. Regardless of his size he was one of the Instructors at the Military Academy and has taught well over 100,000 soldiers in his entire career.  

As he grew closer to the white haired man Captain Zhengtilly's hands started to glow in a dull blue color and send a powerful swing of his fists towards the enemy leader.  

This was a technique he had won back in his days at the Military Academy he trained in since he was accepted at the young age of 17. He won a competition that allowed him to earn a technique scroll from the Central Colonies. Just by reading the scroll it didn't take long for him to learn and master the powerful martial technique that even allows him to wield a form of ice magic with his fists. Even if he was unable to use magic like I am, this technique helped him to learn to focus what mana he did have flowing through his body to allow him to achieve a strong martial technique. While he doesn't have the ability to create Ice or Fire this rare martial technique that can slow down and weaken his enemies with every swing. While it is not essentially magic and doesn't open any doors for those learning a technique to learn other magics it is a powerful martial technique that can give those without magic powerful abilities to fight with. He has also trained his strength to practically fourth in all of Myro.

The famed Frozen Tundra Fist technique is from a strong guild in a large nation in the Kingdom of Kario and has earned Captain Zhengtilly a lot of fame with his martial arts.  

All of the surrounding demi humans didn't move but continued to stair forward without reacting in the slightest. The human leader too hadn't made a single step to try and evade and simply waited for the incoming fist with his arms at his sides....  

BOOOM!  

"AH......hah?" - Captain Zhengtilly  

A loud bang shook the walls of the arena and caused my ears to start ringing. It almost sounded like a blacksmith slamming his hammer into hard metal but what we were left staring at had completely shocked everyone present.  

The intimidating image of one of Myro's elite captain's martial technique came crashing towards his opponent but appeared to have been frozen and staring into the eyes of a Demon Lord.  

With one palm the white haired man extended his hand and halted the fist of Captain Zhengtilly and stopped it from moving any further.    

'….....Wha...what?'  

"Wha...what's happening? Someone...tell me..." - Captain Theodore  

"…..Impossible." - Captain Calder  

"You got some power but I'm pretty heavy, and if ya can't break my bones then you're not going to be able to move me an inch.....I hope the strong warrior of Myro won't give up for his comrades lying not only a few feet away...." - ?  

With his words provoking Captain Zhengtilly he continued to swing his heavy fists forward but with each movement he was either parried from the enemy leader or dodged within the last second. His movements were small but each stopped the violent swings of Captain Zhengtilly and pushed each of his fists back as if he were swatting back the attacks of a child.  

His movements were odd and even seemed slightly clumsy trying to defend against Captain Zhengtilly's long reach. But with every swing at the last possible second would get deflected before reaching the enemies body.  

The enemy leader raised his arms up in an odd way which guarded both sides of his face and started hopping weirdly on the tips of his feet. He smiled and gave two practice swings towards his opponent out in front of him.

He looked like he was trained in some foreign form of martial arts as his stance looked like that of a monkey's paw.  

His movements weren't those of a master but they were incredibly sharp. Captain Zhengtilly moved showed his long years of expertise and countered with a heavy strike after being blocked.

Boom!

One of Captain Zhengtilly's large fists had finally struck the side of the enemy leader and pushed him back several steps after finding an opening.

The white haired man nimbly moved to the side looking to be unharmed entirely. This caused Zhengtilly's face to grow more fierce. The enemy leader then darted to the left and to the right while evading the advancement of the Captain's devastating strikes. Yet  still the enemy leader is dawning that frightening smile. He's so young....yet ....Very strong.....

BOOOOOOOOM!!!!

Just then a large explosion erupted within the middle of the two fighters and Captain Zhengtilly's body was sent flying several meters back and crashing into the ground.    

I couldn't even see the enemy leader's swing it only looked like he had remained completely motionless the entire time but he must have used some skill just now.  

The crowd started to gulp and frighteningly look towards the Captain as he stood up his already destroyed armor had a large dent in the chest that looked to have been almost entirely sunken in. The Captain did look to be struggling to breath but his eyes did not lose any bit of his determination.  

He looked at the enemy leader now with much more respect but even in the face of death he would never cower. No warrior from Myro would ever lay down and die if given the chance to fight but how tyrannical is this person's strength?

"Heh...I guess without using any of my skills and this being my base strength I guess that was somewhere close to a third my full power. Well.... I only used a bit over half my strength on that so it's probably closer to 20% my full strength.... I admit your technique is better than mine but in the end....Like I said the result stays the same...." - ?  

The enemy leader spoke casually back to the Captain and smirked while trying to ridicule his opponent who had fallen down even further. He wasn't out of breath or even looking to be fatigued in the slightest....How is someone his size overpowering someone as huge as Captain Zhengtilly? He's not a mage...He's a warrior with voiceless healing magic...This is rare...This is something that could shock the Central colonies as well I've never seen such a rare class before. Just what could be this person's background? It's too strong to be a Guardian!...I know of their being geniuses from the Central Colonies and some of the legends of our time exist there...But not even I'm sure of hearing of such a strong combination of power and healing like this. Not to compete with Zhengtilly with such minimal effort unless he's someone of incredible influence that even Myro must  dare  not offend....  

"Hah! Impossible my strength is over 9,000. I've trained my whole life and ranked 4th strongest in the entire Myro Kingdom in hand to hand combat! There is no way a puny mage can stand my Frozen Tundra Fist Technique!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Hah...it's over 9000!!!...Oh you wouldn't get it....but again sounds cool...Impressive stats for around here....but results stay the same." - ?."  

The enemy leader didn't seem bothered by Zhengtilly's statement at all and merely shook his hands jokingly.

'He's strong. Even now he looks casual and unafraid of his Zhengtilly's fist entirely...Perhaps he really is stronger than those demi humans beside him.'  

"Ah!...Ah! Even if I die I won't let you live past this day boy!!!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

With one swift motion from Captain's hand he made a movement and leaned right and then swung his left hand in an odd slashing motion.  

Even if the enemies leader movements were very quick and lightning fast Captain Zhengtilly still seemed to have an air of confidence when trying to attack his opponent.  

Crunch....  

"AHAHA!!! …...And with this....You die! " - Captain Zhengtilly  

After the Captain had backed away he had shown the image of his smaller opponent holding his chest which had a small dagger with an ornamented handle pressed into the heart of the enemy.  

I thought it was a horrible breach of the agreement but at this point I could only breathe a sigh of relief. But what is to possibly happen to everyone now?.....Just what did Captain Zhengtilly have in mind next? We're each all immobilized and there is still all those ferocious wolves to worry about.  

I looked up at each of them and they looked incredibly angry. I could hear some of their growls through the loud thunders but they aren't moving at all from where they stood. The small glowing demi humans too were.....smiling? 'Wait what is going on?....'

"He....he was hiding a weapon?" - City Guard  

"He...He killed him!" - Mayor  

"….Hmph....." - ?  

"Don't look at me like that....For making yourself an enemy of Myro only death will await you. Even if I die today I can die with honor as vanquishing an enemy of our great Kingdom of Myro. I will die with glory as you will simple die without a grav............" - Captain Zhengtilly  

Falkner stopped talking as if he had just choked on his own tongue looking at what was in front of him.

"Guards! Now is our chance... Everyone kill these wicked beasts and we can overwhelm them with numbers!" - City Guard  

"Yes! Kill the beasts first! Try to save the some of the women! Go now everyone grab a weapo........what?!" - City Guard  

Captain's words then ran short as all the surrounding chatter immediately died down. Now all that could be heard was the loud rain pounding against the soft dirt and soft snickering in the distance...  

The enemy leader who had a dagger pressed tightly against his chest had casually placed his hand upon the handle and slowly pulled it out effortlessly.....

He did it all while staring at the red stained blue blade in his hands as if curious over it but showed now sense of pain or anger whatsoever.

'Wha...what's happening?'

"I was wondering when you were gonna take that hidden weapon out. Hmmm Mithril....Must have gotten this from that war of yours with the Elves?....Well it's sharp I'll give ya that but useless against something like me....." - ?  

"....................."   - Everyone

As the enemy leader removed the weapon which must have pierced his heart yet no blood rained down from his wound. It didn't even appear like this attack on him had caused him any pain at all and were acting normally.... His shirt hadn't received even so much as a cut nor did he show any signs of dying.  

Seeing this I could feel my pupils shrink trying to comprehend what I just saw.  

I squinted my eyes and noticed his health was at full. Only 3 marks '???' stood over his full health which is all we could hope to obtain with the low Acquire ability I have.  

'How is this happening?....How is this happening? Why is he not dead? Not even hurt?!'  

"What? Have I lost too much blood I must be hallucinating cough...cough..." - Captain Calder  

Calder struggled to raise his head and too was unable to comprehend what we were just seeing. Is this person even human? I'm aware of some strong healing magic even from the higher ups of the largest Churches but....None of them can do anything like what we're all seeing right now. Healing Magic that can make even a fatal strike into something meaningless?  

"Yahhhugh! ...What? Is he...Is he a monster? Why is he still standing? " - Mayor  

"Ho.....how? Magic? Was your shirt a magical item? Or is it perhaps....You healed yourself even with a knife through your heart? I...I.....how...HOW! You?....." - Captain Zhengtilly  

Captain's eyes were bloodshot and his face was drained of all color as if he had saw the face of a one those horrid beasts who ate all of our comrades. He couldn't fathom how his plan had all crumbled to the ground just before his eyes and his last  sliver of hope had died with him. The enemy leader who was still smiling then spoke which even through the rain and roaring thunder....We heard every word he said so clearly.  

The voice that echoed behind his own was something......evil.

The sound of it sent goosebumps down my spine and felt as if my heart were being gripped by the dreaded Reapers of the Netherworld.

Even those of his own group started to stare towards him with looks of caution on their faces and everyone was simply too afraid to move.

"Hmph....Aw I didn't think you'd be one to complain about us breaking the rules I mean come on now you just stabbed me in the heart......You know what I honestly can't stand?......" - ?  

As the enemy leader started to walk towards the slowly retreating Captain Zhengtilly every soul within the Colosseum held their breath. To his question no one dared say a word. The rain and  lightning blanketed the skies and shook with just as much strength as this persons words.  

However with every sound of his rising voice sent shivers down each of our spines. Whatever this person is...He's not human. He can't be....He can't be....he...he can't be....  

'….....'  

"….It's the MEDIOCRITY!......Talk like your justified and somehow in the right just because of your titles....With such.......LITTLE POWER!!!.....You stand over those weaker than you and force them into whatever fate you desire. You don't for one second even think about the possibilities of someone...Something far more powerful than you coming in and treating you with just as much viciousness. It's like your all stupid! With a world so violent and so big how could you dare to be so heartless to others and not expect a grim fate to arrive at your door some day...And you beg for justice, for mercy?...... It doesn't matter who your daddy is...It doesn't matter if you have hundreds of thousands and strong allies to stand with you...You think I cared that you hid a weapon in your waste pocket? You think I care if I have to fight you bare handed? Or without armor  as if you could gain some sort of advantage? As I said the end result will always remain...... the same. If you only could see it from my perspective ......I could kill each of you with a THOUGHT!" - ?  

As his voice started to grow deep and give off a powerful echo that didn't even seem human no one was able to take their eyes away from what we were seeing. Whoever this person was had an incredibly violent nature directed towards not only Aldain but even Myro it seems like. Just what did we do to anger such a person?  

'Oh for the love of Lugh what is this monster! There's blood on that dagger how is he not affected in the slightest from being stabbed in the heart? There's no way he's human? Magic can't do that can it?! I've heard of simply godlike magical spells from the Central Continent but something like this? …..Wha, what is he?!'  

With the downpour currently attacking our bodies and causing us to tremble. Just as he finished speaking he lifted up his hand and pointed over to the left of where I was laid down.  

I peered over and then saw there standing hesitatingly was Falkner holding onto a woman's neck firmly with his large bruised fists.  

He looked haggard but he firmly pressed his fists into the women's thin neck as she desperately fought for air.  

"Stop where you are or...or ….or I'll kill this one here! With all that talk you act like you’re the hero then if you try anything at all I'll fucking kill this innocent girl right here in front of you! You here me! Let's see if your one to judge who is good and who is wrong! You're fast but what do you want to bet I'm faster you little bastard!" - Captain Zhengtilly  

"Captain...Zhengtilly....How do you....stand without a spine?!! - Captain Calder  

"What are you doing?! Put her...ah.....down!"  

I tried to fight the pain I was currently in and screamed towards the Captain but he didn't even seem to pay any interest. The look in his eyes were that of a person who had truly gone insane and was desperately trying to cling to life.  

The woman tried to beg for her life but couldn't get out any of her words as she was trying to fight for air.  

"Hmph, that's what I get for messing around I suppose....." - ?

"Put down my grandaughter right now you hethon!" - Old Woman

"Everyone shut up! Now I want a horse! And I'm going to take this person with me and if you or any of those fucking demi humans of yours comes close enough to where I can smell them! I'll kill the girl you got that?"  - Captain Zhengtilly  

'You shameless bastard! You are trying to leave us! '  

The enemy then smiled back towards Captain Zhengtilly who had lost almost all the color in his face.  

"Hah! What you think I don't dare? I can see how much you don't want me to hurt the little lass here so just give me a horse and I'll...." - Captain Zhengtilly  

"No....." - ?  

With a soft voice with such an unworldly echo reached to each of our ears through the loud thunderous strikes. The enemy leader didn’t take his sights of the tall stature of Captain Zhengtilly.  

"You!..you think I won't do it?" - Captain Zhengtilly  

The Captain then firmly choked the young maiden in his arms harder and her face started to turn purple.    

"Captain Zhengtilly I orignally thought you were quite admirable for standing up for those of your own men but now I find you quite repulsive. You go against your own words as a Knight of your Kingdom and tried to stab me for what? So your name would have some glory with it when you died? What of your men if you were successful in killing me? Even if you didn't know if I wouldn't kill them by just my words wouldn't your actions leave there to be no other alternative?.... Then at the first chance you get you throw away your honor as a Knight you're so proud of!... Try to take a hostage. Was that whole rant about you wishing for your comrades safety all bull? You speak so highly of yourself being in the right after such actions and have the nerve to call me a monster?.. Yet in your final moments you throw away all else and only think for yourself ….Hah, like I said, you warriors from Myro seem to do a lot more talking than fighting and it's just all garbage.... you think about that whenever you wake up in the next life." - ?  

To these words Zhengtilly made a troubled look and opened up his mouth but couldn't seem to find the words to speak. Then his entire body twitched and jolted.

The enemy leader then raised his hands and formed a strong fist  

BOOOOOOOOM!!!!!  

With a loud 'bang' the head of Captain Zhengtilly exploded and showered the area in a mist of blood and flesh.  

All that remained was the kneeling headless corpse of the once famed Captain of the Elite Infernal Blood Knights. Blood continued to rain and spill out of his open head and blanket those who were kneeling not far away from him.  

He lifelessly fell over and his body hit the ground with a loud thud. I could feel as if my entire heart were about to burst from out of my chest. Just where did he learn such world defying power?! Is..Is this the power of...of a.... Sage?  

He then turned and looked towards the crowd who was currently unaware of what they had witnessed and were frozen in place.    

The young maiden who had fallen back to the ground was covered in blood and had a look of shock on her face but she more so looked happy to be alive. The old grandmother then rushed to her side and held onto the girl and they both cried in each other's arms.  

Just then the enemy leader then raised his other hand up into the air and I could hear the sounds of those around me cry out.  

"Houghhhhh!!! Acchchchchh!" - ?  

"AHH!!H!H!...AH..aH..ah......No..no...nnnnono." - ?  

"Mercy!! Ple...please my lor..lord... Have mercy!" - ?  

Each of those adorned in Aldain armor rose up and started to levitate in the air shaking and firmly grasping their chests convulsing. Their voices seemed horse as if they couldn't breath or were trying to fight for air.  

"To those of the Sneering Ogre Guild and all those of the Aldain City Guard.... For all of the sins you have done in this world I will no longer allow you to remain in it. Honestly, not a single one of you doesn't have blood on your hands. Though I am not a Holy man I feel justified enough to end each of your lives this day and rid the world of your filth. I sentence you all to death...." - ?  

He waved his hands around in a series of motions and the hundreds of city guards began to shake and contort violently.  

BOOOOOOOM!  

Splaaattttt!  

Each of the Captains and I turned my head at an awkward angle that my torn body allowed me and noticed a horrifying sight that looked to be out of a nightmare.  

The eyes of all those same floating guards were missing and had blood endlessly streaming out from their mouths an empty eye sockets.  

At least a hundred of Aldain's soldiers were killed by some form of magic and died horrifically right in front of me. I hadn't heard a single word from the enemy leader but knew just by his previous actions that he was the cause over every one of their deaths.  

"Is...is this magic? Or....the...the power of a god? This!" - Captain Calder  

"Wha...what happened? Tel....tell me?" - Captain Theodore  

'What? What is this thing?! There was no damage done with that attack at all simply death with  a few hand movements....How? Why?Why?WHY?WHY?WHY!!!!!!!! WHY DID I HAVE TO COME HERE!? I'm so terrified....I just want to go home...I just want to go home......'  

I could only feel each of these chilling images one after the other continue to shock me to my very core. There were no casting spells nor chants? His mastery over magic was.....Boundless he used it in the same way a monster would and create a magical law enternally ! These are warriors we cannot compete with? Who is this amazingly powerful person? Where did they even come from? And why now?  

I couldn't even think straight my mind was racing of every decision I ever made that lead me to this place.  

The white haired man then waved his hands and each of the Aldain men were then hurled back to the ground as if they were all garbage.    

'Is this a dream? This must be a dream? Just what is this horrifying magic?! Is it even magic or the judgment of some all powerful and vengeful deity? Humans can't even wield such power.... I'm dreaming! I'm dreaming! I must be dreaming! With the appearance of those horrible giants I must be going insane and this pain attacking my body isn't real at all! That must be it! That must be it!'  

Each of these events that have happened today will forever haunt me. I felt as if I were losing my mind. The fear over what I was seeing was simply enough to invade into my soul and make me unable to even look in this strong figures sight.  

I may never recover from the trauma that is currently eroding my heart and will inevitably continue on in my nightmares even in the next life.  

I couldn't stop shaking and then the enemy leader looked towards me and smiled. I shuttered violently and I felt as if all the blood in my face had left me at that moment. I only looked at the dirt in front of me and closed my eyes.  

"Me..me..mercy...mercy...please......please....."    

For what felt like a long time no words were spoken but I then started to hear gasps and chatter from some of those around me. When I looked up the same figure was standing before me but as my eyes neared his face I now saw that there covering his face was in fact a white mask with a dauntingly frightening grin....  

"Looks like you all found me....." - Vali  

Upon the realization of who the man we had been chasing and the violent killer to show simply unfathomable powerful magic were in actuality the same person.  

'Him? Him? The masked man we had been searching for who was rumored to have killed Lord Lestat from the higher ups? Why would Commander Adel think we could possibly find and attack an enemy like this. This is the reason there were so many troops gathered on this mission!!! General Warren even stated not to approach him, he even knew this person could have been potentially this dangerous! Have they angered a monster that hides deep within the mountains of the continent? Or invited the wrath of the heavens?'  

Just by the sight of this masked figure bending over facing me in such a violent storm felt like a lightning bolt had suddenly struck my head and I could only tremble in fear staring back towards the godlike being breathing in my face. I tried to move back but my heart was simply panicking to the extent I couldn't even remember how to move.  

End of Chapter  

Ok so i'll never have a chapter this long again but enjoy. This story has a way of growing longer the more I write it seems.... The story will however start to get pretty intense here pretty soon.....

New characters and villains will be introduced and you'll find that each species and strong figure has different  and unique combination of abilities, items and magic effects that make them all a force to be reckoned with. Some who will test the mc mentally rather than physically. There are plenty of other blessed beings with growth correction with strong builds who have come to power in this world with their own legends and strong techniques. Thinik of the Pixies....before it was just a skill that shared their lives. Once they gained a legendary skill to regenerate they become a completely new force to be reckoned with....The world will have a lot of figures like that who might be introduced soon.

They each will hold great power but not necessarily have the ability to kill the other for so long because each is considerably strong... just what situations and conversations that would lead into...

Looking for more editors!

Looking for maybe an artist to make a cover for me maybe if interested?

Thanks again everyone! Don't forget to leave a long comment about you're thoughts.