Ch. 351..360

Chapter 351

"Would you like to be companions with Eliza instead of me?"

Overhearing her name, Eliza looked away from the powerful Minokawa and saw Jack staring warmly into Appa’s eyes.

"Would you like that, Appa? You can be honest," Jack insisted that the condor answer his question.

"Honestly... yes. I would prefer that. She cares for my wings and feathers. I like that." The condor nodded, not hiding his true feeling from his mutual companion.

"Then after you take us to Trodar, we’ll transfer the mutual seal to Eliza, okay? I think that would be for the best."

"What?!" Baffled, Eliza stuck her head in front of Jack’s. "Are you kidding me? Why would we do that? How would we do that?"

"Calm down, Eliza." Jack grabbed her shoulders as the party realized what was going on. "Are you saying that you wouldn’t like to have Appa as a beast companion?"

"No! Of course not! That’s just too crazy of a thing for you to mention so casually, Jack," stated Eliza. "Is that even possible?"

"Thanks to Daruun it is." Jack pecked her on the forehead, startling her and keeping her from arguing. "Now, shall we go?"

"Um, where are we going?" That familiar voice reminded Jack of the last party member as she exited the women’s tent. "Are we going to meet Jin now?"

"Yeah, we’ll meet Jin now. Then, we’ll hurry back so we can go meet Eedaj so you can finally learn the truth behind the fall of your race, Daliea."

Looking Jack in the eye, the grey-skinned beauty smiled. "Thank you, Jack. Then I’m glad we’re hurrying."

"Also, I think I found you a new beast companion, but we’ll talk about that when we reach Trodar," Jack added. "Now hop on Appa and let’s go!"

Not letting the party waste time, Jack nudged his wives toward the condor. Lina was the first to climb on and roll in his freshly brushed feathers. Once everyone was ready, including Phoro who casually laid across the condor’s dack, they were off.

Five minutes passed as the team was taken to the deepest part of the valley, where a small yet powerful waterfall had created a pond below.

"So you’re lv. 49 now... We have such a strong husband, don’t we?" Eliza joked as she grabbed Maura’s hand.

"Yeah, but we won’t get left behind." More comfortable than ever around Eliza, Maura wasn’t anywhere near as shy as before. Her time spent most around Lina and Eliza helped her a lot with her confidence as a woman.

"Right! And with a second powerful companion, I’ll be sure to catch up!" Eliza proudly stated, combing her hands through Appa’s feathers.

Jack smiled. "You do realize Appa’s also lv. 49, right?"

"Really?! I mean... I guess that makes sense." Eliza shrugged. "Maybe you’re only doing this so you can protect me better."

"Maybe..."

Though Jack informed them of the general happenings and results of the dungeon run, he didn’t mention his upgraded bloodline skill. At lv. 6, his inheritors could access up to lv. 3, which greatly boosted the party’s strength. But what Jack was thinking about was when he reached lv. 10. Not only would it be so powerful that Daruun refused to mention it to not distract Jack, it meant that his party could access up to lv. 5, where it allows them to merge bloodlines during transformation.

With that on his mind, Jack started to wonder what beasts would be perfect for his party members, and which ones would combo well.

"Jack? Jaaack?"

"Big Bro?!"

Startled awake from thought, Jack looked to Lina and Maura. "What’s wrong?"

"We’re here, Jack," Maura replied. "Aren’t you going to open the shrine or help us find the entrance?"

"Right!" hopping to the ground, Jack reviewed his map tab and made sure they were right on top of the shrine. "Hmm... It should be right here."

"Really?" Eliza asked. "Then how come we haven’t found it yet?’’

Jack reexamined the surrounding area and found himself coming back to the pond. But before he said anything or came to a conclusion, Jack heard a splash. Looking back he saw Rydel smiling.

"What?" The hunter shrugged. "I mentioned that the pond was suspicious and Maynard dove in headfirst. You know how he is."

The entire party got a laugh out of it but Maynard never came back up for water. After almost a minute, a faint red glow could be seen from the bottom of the pond. But just as the light appeared, it was snuffed out and Maynard was launched out of the water.

With a harsh landing on the valley wall, Maynard fell with a thud. The samurai coughed up some blood but was too busy smiling to reply to his party’s worried questions. "I think I found it..."

"So that’s where the waterfall leads," reasoned Rydel. "I knew something was off."

Jack shook Maynard a bit and asked, "But what happened to you? Why were you thrown out of the water like that?"

"There’s a hole at the bottom of the pond, but there’s also a barrier that wouldn’t let me through. So, what else would I do other than break it?"

Not hiding his laughter, Jack patted Maynard on the shoulder. "Maynard, I like the way you think but that’s probably not the best solution in this case. Let me try something."

Jack then dove into the water with a smile on his face.

"Me too!"

Surprising the others, Lina followed after Jack. Though some wanted to stop her, they all quickly remembered that Lina was in her natural element and was far stronger than they give her credit. They had been reminded a few times during their tirade against the beasts of Sunset Valley, that Lina shouldn’t be underestimated.

Below the water, Jack swam down toward the bottom. But he was quickly passed by Lina, who jetted past him and swam more naturally than most fish.

’Lina, what are you doing?’ Jack asked telepathically.

Unlike Jack, Lina spoke verbally, unimpeded by the water, "I want to see the bottom too. Maybe I can help Big Bro."

"Fine, but don’t do anything without my permission. Got it?"

"Got it!"

Jack caught up to her and they descended the rest of the way together. Once at the bottom, Jack noticed that there was a tight tunnel.

’Lina, check that tunnel and tell me what you find.’

"Okay!" Nodding, Lina followed her brother’s orders and glided through the tight space. Not even a minute later, she called back telepathically. ’Jack, I found the barrier!’

’I see... I’m coming in!’

Following Lina’s example, Jack hurried inside the tunnel and barely fit himself through the small passageway. After a few winds and turns, Jack found himself face to face with a barrier of white light. Water could pass through it without a problem, but it stopped Jack’s hand instantly.

What Jack didn’t understand was how Maynard was hurled out of the water from such a tight space. ’Lina, I’’m going to try something. It’s going to hurt me, but I’ll be right back, so don’t do anything while I’m gone.’

"Okay..." Not understanding what Jack was about to do, Lina agreed to her big brother’s demands.

Swallowing some saliva, Jack retrieved a sword and activated his Blood Thrust skill. The blood-red glow filled the tiny underwater cavern, letting a small bit escape the opening and show itself to the party above. Then, like Maynard, Jack attacked the barrier, hoping to learn more.

As the sword made contact with the barrier the attack’s power and strength were reflected onto Jack as if he had thrust the sword into his own side. No entry wound was made but Jack was launched back by a terrifying recoil. Also like Maynard, Jack somehow was transported through the rock that formed the tunnel and then hurled into the valley wall.

Chapter 352

Coughing up a bit of blood, Jack tumbled down the rocky valley wall and hit the ground beside Maynard and the others.

"Didn’t think ya were as stupid as me," laughed Maynard.

Jack smiled and wiped the blood from his mouth. He then pulled out two bottles of life spring water Jack had collected back in Ponlinne’s tomb. "Here. This will stop the internal bleeding."

While Jack and Maynard drank the healing water, the other party members were startled by Jack’s statement.

"We’re fine now, so don’t worry about it," Jack added, calming the party. "Now, I think I know what to do."

Still in a rush, Jack returned to the water and hurried to the bottom at full speed. When Jack reached the tunnel, he didn’t stop or slow down. Instead, Jack closed his eyes and aimed where he thought the barrier might be beneath the rock.

Lucky for Jack, his assumption was right. As his body came in contact with the rock, he phased right through it.

When Jack reappeared in front of the barrier, Lina was blown away. "Big Bro, how did you do that?!"

’I’m not sure. I want to say this rock tunnel is an illusion, but I think there’s more to it than that,’ Jack replied. ’Anyway, I need you to do something. Can you devour the barrier, Lina?’

"Really?! You’ll let me eat it?!"

Not waiting for Jack to change his mind, Lina’s body expanded and swiftly took the form of a long three-headed hydra. And thanks to the tunnel’s strange ability, Lina’s long body didn’t destroy it. Back in her hydra form, Lina opened all three of her mouths and bit into the barrier. Her teeth ripped the barrier to shreds and left a huge, gaping hole. It was as if the magic barrier was a giant cookie and each of the three hydra heads stole a bite from it, savoring and chewing on the magic.

’That’s enough, Lina, just enjoy your snack.’ Jack noticed that Lina was enjoying the flavor so he didn’t bother her with anything else. ’Everyone, the barrier’s open now. Come one down!’

’What about Appa, Bowzer, and Phoro?’ asked Eliza.

Jack replied, ’Store them. I’m sure there will be a place for them in the shrine.’

Eliza told the beasts of the plan and stored them away before she and the other party members jumped into the water.

’Also, that rock tunnel at the bottom is false. You can swim right through it. Just follow Lina’s body and you’ll find it.’

At first, the party was confused but they quickly caught on when they saw the hydra tail wagging through what was supposed to be solid rock. With that to guide them, the party didn’t struggle to find the barrier and the hole she had made. Also, they saw Lina take three more large bites and smile at the taste.

Jack was already inside the barrier.

Once Jack crossed through the hole Lina had made, the flow of the water drastically changed. Jack felt his body being dragged down with the sudden shift of the current. As he fell, Jack realized what was going on. His new view was that of an upside-down shrine surrounded by a moat. And Jack presumed that the shrine wasn’t upside-down, but that he was upside-down and inside of a waterfall.

"You!"

A booming voiced echoed within the hidden room. It was masculine but not too low of a register. Also, it’s tone seemed more bothered than angry.

While Jack crashed into the moat below, he saw the rough figure of a man through the running water. He came to the side and gasped for air.

"You, it must be you! What did you do to my barrier?! Do you now understand how difficult it was to make that?" The now clear figure berated Jack.

"Sorry, we’re just in a hurry to speak with Jin so I don’t keep Daruun waiting," Jack replied as he clamored onto the carved stone floor jutting out of the moat.

"Daruun? What do you know of him? Speak, boy?"

Now breathing easier, Jack looked back to Jin. He was a man with average stature and height, but half of his toned torso was revealed by the kimono cut diagonally across the torso. Jin’s hair was done into a tight bun and his facial features were just as sharp as his gaze.

"Jin, my name is Jack. I’m Daruun’s champion and your nephew. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, uncle."

"Nephew?!" The man’s piercing stare was shattered by that comment. "Who sent you?"

"Technically, Sterfen sent me so you could bless one of my party members, but Daruun also sent me and told me to hurry," Jack replied.

Jin squinted and stepped in front of Jack. He puffed up his chest and slapped his hands down onto Jack’s shoulders without mercy. As Jack chuckled in pain, Jin grinned madly.

"Finally! So it was you who summoned him three days ago... And you’re Sterfen’s son, that would half explain the hydra outside my door. Oh, where’s this party of yours? Are you sure that they’ll fit my blessing and my requirements?"

Jack nodded with a laugh, "Uncle Jin, I’m sure he’ll fit your requirements. Also, that’s my little sister outside."

"Little... They found her?!" Jin boomed with laughter, gripping Jack’s shoulders tighter and tighter with every guffaw. "That’s wonderful! You’ll have to tell me everything!"

"Uncle, calm down! You’re squeezing a little too tight!"

"Oh, sorry about that!" Jin continued to laugh as he released Jack from his friendly yet torturous grip.

While Jack rubbed his throbbing shoulders, a giant splash happened behind him.

"That must be your party," assumed Jin. "I hope you’re not lying about your party member being fit for my blessing. I’m extremely cautious about selecting disciples."

"Jin!" A loud voice interrupted their conversation, followed by someone hurriedly climbing out of the water and kowtowing to the god. "My name is Maynard. I’m a samurai on a search to seek thy blessing of discipline."

"Oh, a fellow samurai! I see why you brought him, Nephew," Jin chuckled and gave Maynard a once over.

Hearing Jin’s statement, Maynard blinked. "Master Jin, may I raise my head?"

"Of course! A proud samurai should never bow his head so easily!" With a tap of his foot, Jin knocked Maynard back up onto his feet, stunning the samurai. "As a fellow disciple of the blade, You’d better show me everything you’ve got. Otherwise, I’ll be forced to turn you away."

"Just curious, but do you know Tyre, Uncle Jin?"

Thrown off by Jack’s question, Jin’s smile fell from his face. "Why do you ask?"

Jack shrugged and smiled. "I only ask because Maynard here was desperate to train under Tyres. Even when I told him that it wouldn’t work out, he only stopped insisting after Steren repeated what I told him."

"Oh... I see..." Suddenly, four katanas appeared and floated in the air around in. "In that case, I’ll have to adjust my test...

"Maynard," Jin’s armor-piercing stare returned and focused on Maynard, "I’ll strike four times. If you can at least see or avoid all four of them, then you’ll pass. You’ll get three attempts to pass. Do you understand?"

Taking a deep breath, Maynard retrieved his two katanas and took a battle-ready stance. "I’m ready."

"Then here comes the first test."

A burst of aura exploded out from Jin’s body, frightening the remaining party members still climbing onto the stone platform. They watched as Maynard remained calm before the god. Then, they saw Jin pick up two of the four floating swords.

What followed was truly shocking for Maynard and the party, minus Jack.

Two more phantasmal arms appeared from Jin’s back. They seemed to take form out of thin air, yet they both firmly gripped the two remaining swords from the air.

"Here I come! Don’t die!"

 

Chapter 353

"Here I come! Don’t die!"

Not sparing Maynard another moment of preparation, Jin vanished with the whistle of the wind, reappearing directly in front of Maynard.

The first strike came from Jin’s front fright hand. It was a simple move and seemed to be much slower than Jin was moving before. Swing down to the left, the first katana struck down without hesitation.

Maynard didn’t dare to take the attack head-on. How could he compare to the strike of a god, even if the god clearly wasn’t giving it his all? Instead, Maynard sidestepped and rotated to his left. Using his own katana to parry Jin’s attack, Maynard started to prepare for the second strike. Yet Maynard had misjudged the simple attack.

When Maynard’s katana came into contact with Jins, it phased through the blade, unable to deter the strike in any way.

"You can do better!" shouted Jin. His katana slashed Maynard’s left forearm. "Test one: failed!"

Jin then stood up straight and lowered his blades, asking, "Are you ready for the second attempt?"

Perplexed, Maynard didn’t reply immediately. The aspiring samurai was too distracted by his left sleeve. He had no clue how Jin had done it, but Maynard felt the attack phase through his arm. It hadn’t damaged a single hair on Maynard’s arm yet it cleanly slashed the sleeve of his kimono.

"Are you ready?" repeated Jin.

Swallowing some saliva, Maynard blinked and kept a relaxed, firm grip of his katana’s. "Please, begin my second attempt."

"Very well!"

Like clockwork, Jin disappeared and reappeared while attacking in the exact same motion as the first time.

This time, however, Maynard avoided making contact at all costs. As the strike came, Maynard also disappeared to avoid the blade. Reappearing a couple of meters away, Maynard inhaled a deep breath.

Then, before Maynard could exhale, Jin was now in front of him. Even using Sudden Death, Maynard felt that Jin’s attack mixed with his godly speed made the God of Discipline unavoidable.

"Come!" Jin shouted as his sword slashed through Maynard’s right sleeve, again leaving the samurai’s arm in mint condition.

Working overtime, Maynard’s mind searched for some way to deal with Jin’s strange attacks.

"Second attempt: failed!" Jin stood up straight and took another deep breath, maintain his stare without a single blink. "Are you ready for the third attempt?"

Still running without a strategy, Maynard kept quiet.

"Are you ready?" Jin repeated, noticing no change in Maynard’s battle stance or hesitation in the man’s eyes. "Then here I come!"

Again, Jin reenacted the same scenario and, strangely enough, it was terrifying for Maynard to know exactly what was going to happen and that he had no way of stopping or avoiding it.

With that in mind, Maynard clenched his jaw. Blood-red energy gathered around his katanas, which swung in a cross in an attempt to intercept Jin’s attack.

"Come!"

Jin’s yell rang throughout the shrine as the energy-coated blades met with the simple slash attack.

"CLANG!!"

The sound of clashing metal was that of a victory bell. All the stress and tension in Maynard’s gaze lightened and sharpened as he readied himself for the following strike.

"Good! Now take my second attack!" Not giving Maynard much time to react, both of Jin’s front arms swung down in a crossing motion without any added energy or skill.

More blood-red energy erupted from Maynard as he responded with a similar cross.

Though the sound of a clang still sounded, another sound quickly followed.

Some of the party members watching missed what had happened due to the attack’s incredible speed. They were baffled as to why Maynard had fallen on one knee.

Rydel managed to spot the true attack hidden behind the cover of Jin’s cross slash.

"His back right arm had the true attack," mentioned Jack, getting Rydel to nod in agreement. "Now, what sill Maynard do."

"Third attempt: failed!" Relaxing yet again, Jin asked for the third time, "Are you ready for the final attempt? Or do you need to drink a potion first?"

Maynard groaned as he forced himself back up. He looked down at his left leg. The pants he wore showed no signs of wear and tear yet blood covered the entire pant leg from the wound beneath the cloth.

"Are you--"

Before Jin finished his question or readied himself for the next attempt, Maynard bolted forward with Blood Thrust. It drove true, untouched by any of Jin’s katanas as the god remained completely calm.

The fierceness in Maynard’s eyes was the same he would have on a bloody battlefield, fighting for his life.

But that fierceness proved pointless. The blade phased through Jin’s torso, passing directly through the god’s touchable yet impregnable heart.

Maynard’s attack continued, driving another thrust for the god’s head, and again it went unblocked yet unsuccessful. This happened over and over again as the God of Discipline simply watched without batting an eye.

"What strategy is this? Explain yourself?"

"If I can’t dodge your attacks, then I can only stop them by overwhelming them!" shouted Maynard. "If ya are unable to wield a sword, then ya can’t strike me. If ya can’t strike me, then I win!"

"Hmm... an interesting tactic indeed." Jin nodded to the relentless samurai. "Maynard, what is your name?"

Not staying his attacks, Maynard replied while his thrusts buried themselves into Jin’s nearly ethereal body, "Maynard Avarich."

"Maynard Avarich... I’ll remember that. I’ll take it that you’re ready!"

Undeterred by Maynard’s many thrusts, Jin allowed them all to phase through him as his own katana swung down toward Maynard. The samurai countered the first strike and readied himself for the second.

When the cross slash aimed for Maynard, the samurai met them with a Blood Thrust, doing the same for the true attack swiftly executed by Jin’s back right arm.

"Hmm... You know such tactics wouldn’t work in true combat but decided to try your luck with me. You’ve got guts, Maynard Avarich. Now comes my third strike! Don’t die!" warned Jin.

White ethereal energy gathered around Jin’s blade as he repeated the same strike as his first, only increasing the power drastically.

Sensing the boost in the attack’s strength, Maynard made a snap decision.

As Jin brought his sword down with precision and unwavering strength, Maynard readied a Blood Cross. Both attacks were primed and aimed, but not for each other. In place of meeting the attack head-on, Maynard vied to attack Jin with everything he had in an equal exchange.

Both attacks streaked through their opponents yet neither man fell.

Maynard’s attack had no effect on the god whatsoever. The Blood Cross flashed through his body and was wasted completely.

On the other hand, Jin’s sword phased through Maynard’s body like it always did.

All was silent as Maynard examined his body first with his eyes and then with his hands. No clothes were cut and no wound could be found apart from the gash in his leg from earlier. He tried to focus on his internals but they also seemed to be in perfect condition.

"Now, for my fourth strike!"

Caught off guard, Maynard lifted his katanas but had no chance of competing with Jin’s incomparable speed. The tip of Jin’s katana had already pierced Maynard’s heart before the man could put up a proper defense.

"By my godly authority, I hereby place you under my care, Maynard Avarich."

Speechless, Maynard blinked and was left with his mouth agape as the same ethereal white energy that had covered Jin’s swords and made up the barrier glittered around him.

"Don’t disappoint me, Maynard. Never back down and always take life head-on, one step at a time. Discipline is about taking a step forward every day, regardless if you were pushed back or not."

"Thank you, Master Jin!" Maynard hit the floor and kowtowed to the god, glad to have earned the god’s blessing and happy to be alive.

 

Chapter 354

Jack heaved a sigh of relief when Jin removed the katana from Maynard’s chest and put away his swords.

"I’m glad you like him, Uncle Jin," Jack chimed in as he threw an arm around the god. "What do you say about joining us in Trodar? Eedaj is moving there soon and Daruun will be staying at the Leisure Guild for a while."

"Jack, I’ll come back to the world when I feel like it, but for now, I’ll keep to myself," Jin replied, throwing his arm over Jack’s shoulder. "Give me some time and I might come to see if you’ve got a place fitting for me."

"Do you need a waterfall?" asked Jack. "If so, I’ll have one prepared for you. Whatever you want, just name it."

Dropping the smile, Jin stared into Jack’s eyes. "I want to know where to find Tyres."

"Oh... that’s all? What if I tell you where to find his temple?"

"You can do that?!" Like before, Jin grabbed Jack by the shoulders and started squeezing tighter and tighter as his enthusiasm grew. "Tell me, Nephew! Where can I find that traitor?"

Realizing that Jack had accidentally tripped on a landmine in their earlier conversation, Jack chuckled nervously. "Jin, what are you planning to do if I tell you?"

"I’ll kill the man, what else?" Jin replied, looking back at Jack as if the hero was stupid.

"Uncle Jin, I don’t think now’s the time to--"

"Nephew, please tell me where to find him. After I track that pestro down, I’ll come to Trodar and I’ll owe you a favor," Jin offered, tempting Jack.

Jack’s hopes of finding a shortcut in his plans were shattered as Jin’s determination to get revenge was too strong for the god to ignore. Nothing Jack could think of would be enticing enough for the God of Discipline.

"Tell you what, if you stay in Trodar for a year, then I’ll help you track down Tyres and I’ll make sure no one will get in the way of your duel," Jack added. "How’s that sound, Uncle."

Jin shook his head. "That’s tempting, but a man must handle his own grudges. I’ll take care of Tyres on my own, just tell me where to find him."

"I... One second, okay?" Jack then pulled out his contact crystal and shouted, "Tralon! Give the crystal to Daruun!"

"Jack, that won’t be necessary," Daruun spoke simply, covering the vast distance with his voice alone for Jack and Jin to hear. "It’s okay to tell him, Jack. But, Jin, please don’t act too foolishly. Even if it means retreating and striking again another day, promise me you’ll turn tail if anyone besides Tyres joins your fight."

"But Daruun--"

"Jin?"

"... Fine. I promise to make a strategic retreat should I fail to isolate Tyres or we’re interrupted," Jin agreed.

"Good, then go ahead and tell him, Jack. Also, Daliea and you should leave immediately for Korten," Daruun added before ending the conversation.

Sighing, Jack looked to his party then back to Jin. With a quick check in the map tab, Jack located what Jin was after. "Uncle Jin, at the moment Tyres’s hidden temple is in... the Zuran Empire?"

"What part of the Zuran Empire?" asked Jin, not wanting to miss it by accident.

"To the southeast. It’s not quite on the border of Reinolt or Polt, but it’s not far from that corner of Zuran."

"What’s Reinolt?"

Looking back to Jin, Jack asked, "You don’t know that the Zuran Empire was broken into four, like Trodar?"

"Trodar broke into four?!" Surprised, Jin ruffled his goatee with his fingers. "Who knew?"

"Uncle Jin, how long have you been holed up in here?"

Jin started to count with his fingers before holding up nine of them. "Almost nine centuries."

"Nine centuries?!"

"What? I have a training regimen that I can’t skip on, Nephew. That’s why a waterfall is crucial for helping me clear my mind!" reasoned Jin, not helping his case much. "But thanks for the information, Nephew. I look forward to rejoining you in Trodar in the future."

"Wait!" Jack grabbed Jin by the arm, not letting the god escape so easily. "What does your legendary blessing do for Maynard? Can’t you at least explain that much?"

"Oh, right..." Jin smiled warmly and looked to his new and only disciple. "Maynard, you’re now my lead disciple so disappoint me. Like me do earlier, my blessing offers two things: the ability to phase objects or people and the ability to harness your potential energy, bringing it out of yourself to form extra appendages."

"Then, I can summon two spare arms like ya did earlier," asked Maynard.

Jin nodded. "Yes, but it’ll take practice and training. With enough training, anything is possible."

Suddenly, six arms formed from Jin’s back and chest. They moved in perfect sync and reacted as if they were genuinely a part of the god’s body. Jin’s smile showed his natural confidence, but Jack doubted whether his uncle was trying to inspire Maynard or to show off.

"It will take some time to learn this skill, but you’ll still be able to phase objects and people," added Jin. "Just make sure to practice, practice, practice because controlling the blade while it’s phasing is incomparable to wielding a regular katana."

"I’ll make sure to train well, Master Jin." Maynard bowed again as the god waved and then disappeared.

"Tell my niece that she can eat the entire barrier if she wants. I don’t need it anymore!"

Jin’s voice echoed within the chamber, reminding the party about Lina. They looked up and laughed. The hydra girl was nearly done devouring the barrier already, savoring the delicate energy left behind by the god.

’Hurry up, Lina. We’ve got to get moving.’

’Okay, Big Bro!’ Lina replied, picking up the pace of her snacking.

Eliza walked to Jack and smiled. She released the three beasts from earlier. "I know they missed meeting Jin, but at least they can see how cool the shrine is."

Jack chuckled. "Eliza, you know I wasn’t kidding around when I called him uncle, right? According to Daruun, all of the Neutral Gods are like an adopted family, sons and daughters of Daruun."

"Does that mean I’m the God of Fate’s granddaughter?" Catching on quickly, Eliza smiled and reminisced on being a part of such an amazing family tree.

"Then... I’m also his granddaughter," added Maura, leaning into Jack’s side. "Right?"

"Right." Jack hugged her and then sighed. "Now... Daruun just told me that I’ve got to leave for Korten immediately."

"Alright, then let’s--"

"Taking Appa will be too slow, Eliza," Jack cut her off. "Me, you, and Daliea will be clinging to Phoro for dear life as he takes us there. Sorry..."

"You’re leaving us again?" Maura asked. "How long will you be this time?"

"I’m only in a hurry become Daruun gave me a three-day time limit, so you know that I’ll be back soon," replied Jack, calming Maura. "Everyone else should just take Appa to Gilga. I’m sure Rydel can lead the way, right?"

"That I can do," Rydel proudly stated.

"Also, Hurry up and drink this, Maynard." Jack tossed the samurai another bottle of life spring water. "It’s strong enough to heal your wound, but be careful for a few hours."

"Thanks, Jack." Maynard gladly drained the bottle and wiped his face of any leftover drops.

Jack chuckled, "Don’t thank me, I just don’t think Eliza would like for you to dirty Appa’s freshly cleaned feathers."

Laughing, Eliza wrapped her arms around Jack and pecked his cheek. "Thanks."

All smiles, Jack then looked to Daliea, who shied away from looking Jack in the eye while he was surrounded by his wives.

"Daliea, we’ve got to go, now. Let’s hurry out of here, okay?"

"Alright. I’ll follow you," stated Daliea, feeling better now that she was included. And when she looked to Eliza, the enchantress was showing off a big smile.

Chapter 355

Turing to Bowzer and Phoro, Jack added, "Sorry, but I’ll have to store you while we leave. Bowzer, I’ll make sure to let you out in Korten so you can walk around and see the elven city. Okay?"

"Okay..."The fox sighed, both unhappy yet understanding. "Phoro better go full speed then."

"No!" shouted Jack, not wanting Phoro to reply. "Half-speed will be plenty good. Since he’ll have three people on his back and will travel for so long, half-speed should be perfect."

"You’re just scared you can’t handle me," Phoro lifted his chin proudly. "To keep you comfortable I’ll only go half-speed. But make sure to tell me the moment you want me to go faster. The sooner we get back to Trodar, the sooner I can rest in my cozy nest."

"Then, let’s go." In a quick motion, Jack stored the two powerful beasts and looked to the two women joining him. "Come on, there’s no time to waste. Don’t you want to know about your people, Daliea?"

Nodding, Daliea followed Jack and Eliza as they jumped with all they’re might toward the top of the waterfall. They had to grab the wall and climb through the where the barrier once was, which was where Jack gave Eliza some extra support.

When Jack noticed that the water pressure was changing and not as stable as before, the hero called out telepathically to the others, especially Lina.

’Lina, stop! Everyone, you need to get out of here before Lina eats the last of the barrier!’

’But Big Bro... It’s so tasty and I’m growing stronger...’ Lina groaned.

’What? Maura, is that true?’ Jack asked as he, Eliza, and Daliea were swimming to the top of the discreet pond.

’She’s right, Jack. I finally hit lv. 40 and I guess it’s thanks to her snacking.’

Surprised by Maura’s reply, Jack smiled and shook his head. ’Everyone, get out of there so Lina can finish eating the barrier, but not another bite until they’re all out, okay Lina?’

"... Okay, I’ll wait..."

While the hydra impatiently waited for the rest of the party to leave the shrine, Jack, Eliza, and Daliea had resurfaced. They noticed the water level dropping in the pond, proving Jack’s theories of the shrine slowly flooding as true.

"Don’t worry about drying off. We’ll air-dry thanks to Phoro." Releasing the Minokawa, Jack hopped on his Phoro’s back and held out a hand for Eliza. "Come on."

That’s when Jack was stumped. Eliza shook her head and nudged Daliea forward. "Let Daliea sit behind you. I’ll sit in the back."

Shyly but happily, Daliea took Jack’s hand and climbed on behind him.

"Hang on tight. Phoro is a lot faster than you think." Jack then pointed his hand and shouted, "Phoro, we’re going directly east. Once we reach the Korten border then I’ll give you more--"

Jack’s directions were cut-off by the buffeting winds. Phoro took off the moment he was given a course, smiling as he forced his passengers to reflexively cling onto him and each other.

While Jack grasped Phoro’s feathers tightly, he blushed as two short arms suddenly wrapped tightly around his chest.

’Daliea... Don’t be scared. Phoro knows exactly what he’s doing,’ Jack stated, trying to talk away his blush. ’This isn’t even his top speed, so know that he’s keeping us in mind.’

’This... isn’t his top speed?’ Daliea stammered, clinging even tighter to Jack as she tried to imagine the best going even faster.

Smiling, Jack nodded. ’But don’t ask him about it or neither of us will make it to Korten. I’m still not strong enough to handle his speed.’

Daliea blinked, keeping her face behind Jack’s back to avoid the buffeting wind. ’Then... I’m just going to hold on tightly for the rest of the way. Is that okay with you, Jack?’

Jack opened his mouth but hesitated to reply. But when he saw the smile on Eliza’s face, he relaxed a bit. ’Sure thing, Daliea. Don’t worry about it.’

’Thanks.’ Though Daliea didn’t admit it, she was very happy to be so close to Jack and to not feel excluded.

The trip continued just like that for nearly a day. Flying through the night, Phoro was unaffected by the long flight, actually appearing to be bored with his flight speed. "You know, at full speed, we would’ve arrived long ago?"

’That doesn’t matter,’ Jack replied telepathically, unable to handle the wind like the Minokawa. Also, he opened his map tab while continuing, ’In five minutes, readjust your course to northeast-east. Then we’ll arrive near Estonya and...’

’Jack, is something wrong?’ Daliea asked, sensing that Jack was thinking deeply about something out of the blue. ’Jack?’

Eliza felt the same way and prodded the hero mentally in search of the reason. ’Jaaack?’

’Sorry, I just... Well, Lyrun isn’t in Estonya anymore.’

’What?! Where did he go?’ asked Eliza.

’He’s still in Korten, but he’s outside the forest where Eedaj has been staying,’ replied Jack. ’I wonder why--’

’HALT!’ a telepathic cry resounded in the party’s heads. ’Stop, or be slain on the spot!’

’Phoro, descend for now.’

The Minokawa sighed but complied. He brought the small party to the ground, slowing himself as he went. Once Jack, Eliza, and Daliea stood on the ground, Phoro looked through the trees and remained vigilant.

’What business do you have in Korten?’ That same voice played out for them all to hear.

Jack shouted, "If you want to talk to us, then let’s talk face to face. Why hide yourselves? Are you that afraid of us?"

"The elves of Korten know on fear!"

Half a dozen voices replied, coming from all directions. One by one, six elves emerged from the thick forest glen to surround the small party.

The elves were shorter than Jack, but they were all fairly taller then Daliea. However, their ears pointed straight up in the same way that Daliea’s did. Their complexion was pale, far fairer than Jack’s or Eliza’s. And with such slender figures, they were naturally beautiful and handsome to all who saw them.

Thanks to Jack’s knowledge of Daliea’s race, he quickly concluded that the elves were far more similar to Daliea than any of the goblins he had ever seen, apart from their complexion and slightly taller stature.

Stepping forward, Jack bowed his head. "I’m Jack, a summoned hero from the Leisure Guild. I’ve come for a few different reasons and I feel it would be best to discuss them after entering Estonya."

The elven guards were cautious but unperturbed by Jack’s order. The elf with the most luxurious armor stepped forward and eyed Jack. "We have no reason to not kill you for trespassing in Korten. As a member of the Leisure Guild, I’m certain that you know of our laws and how strict they are toward trespassers."

"True, but I’m certain you’d rather make peace with us in place of waging war." Finishing his statement, Jack released Bowzer and gave the telepathic command, ’Show off your flames, but don’t grow or attack.’

Bearing his teeth, Bowzer gave off an intimidating aura as flames suddenly encompassed his body.

Entranced by the dancing white flames, the elves stepped back and withdrew their weapons.

"You dare attack Korten?!" the lead guard shouted.

"Who said we were attacking?" Jack questioned. "I’m just proving a point. If you don’t want to speak with me, then I’ll be off to meet Lyrun and Eedaj. Thanks for nothing!"

"Wait!" Lowering his bow, the lead guard met Jack in the eye before the hero turned around to mount Phoro. "Who did you just say?"

"Lyrun, the Nature God? You don’t know him?!"

"No, the other one. Repeat that name again."

Showing a slight smile, Jack shrugged. "Who? Eedaj? What, do you not know about the Mind God? I thought at least the elves would remember given their life spans and history. Also, I doubt that Eedaj would stay here if you elves hadn’t welcomed him."

All the guards lowered their weapons, confused by Jack’s statement and the knowledge he assumed to have.

Chapter 356

"Your name was Jack, correct? State what business you have with Eedaj."

Sensing the seriousness in each of the elves’ glares, Jack smiled. "I have no reason to tell you since you won’t speak with us. We’ll be leaving now to find both Lyrun and Eedaj, so I’d recommend that you let us depart peacefully. It wouldn’t be the first time that we accidentally cause a forest fire because someone forced us to fight back."

"Then is we discuss business with the Leisure Guild, you’ll tell us more about your business with Eedaj?" the lead guard asked, whose sudden shift in tone surprised Jack.

"Sure."

"Then give me a moment." Taking out a contact crystal, the lead guard turned away from the party as he spoke with someone. After a minute or two, he turned back around to say, "Come, we’ll lead you into Estonya. But no weapons are to be drawn and that fox must be stored away."

"The fox stays out but he wouldn’t dare activate his flames unnecessarily," replied Jack, getting Bowzer to drop his miniature flame body.

The lead guard squinted but nodded. Then, he led Jack’s small party through the woods on foot.

Almost an hour passed as the party walked in silence. Jack had attempted to speak with the lead guard or crack a joke, but the guard’s defenses were impenetrable.

"There." Finally, after reaching the top of a hilled path the guard pointed toward what looked like an ancient wooden wall. "That’s Estonya. If you dare show any malice or intent to fight in the city, we’ll slay you without thought."

"We’ll play nice. But if you try to take advantage of us, the fox won’t be the only one burning Estonya to the ground," stated Jack. "I remember how beautiful Extonya was in ancient times, so I’d rather not destroy it. Please don’t force our hands to desecrate such a breath-taking place."

Not happy nor unhappy with Jack’s statement, the guard led them to the gate embedded into the natural wood wall.

With a knock, the guard shouted, "Shurca gaisu!"

The doors started to slowly open after the guard gave the order. But while Eliza was in awe of the beautiful wall and the scenery, Jack noticed Daliea’s dumbstruck face.

’Did you understand what he said?’ Jack asked telepathically.

Daliea only nodded slowly in response, trying to figure out what was going on.

’Stop worrying. You’ll be excited about what you’ll learn here.’

’Jack, do you know something that you’re not telling me?" questioned Daliea.

The hero smiled. ’It’s not that I’m unwilling to tell you what I know, it’s just that I only know a fraction of what we’ll learn shortly after meeting Eedaj. So, in a way, I’m just as excited as you are.’

"Follow me closely, don’t fall behind!"

The guard’s shout got Daliea to move again, letting her notice that she was the only that hadn’t entered through the door. Once inside, she joined Eliza in becoming speechless.

With the city now in full view, Eliza and Daliea were blown away by the blend of nature and civilization. It was unlike anything they had ever imagined. Also, there were buildings far taller than the wall or the trees yet they hadn’t seen them from the air or from anywhere outside of that giant wooden wall.

"There’s an illusion spell incorporated into the root wall surrounding the entire city," Jack mentioned, confident that he understood why the women were confused.

"The city walls are roots?" Eliza asked.

"That’s right. They’re roots to the Ancient Life Tree in the city center." Pointing to the distant tree that rivaled Dragov in size, Jack continued, "That’s the pillar of Korten and it offers the elves a natural mana spring, like a hot tub but the mana in the spring is so dense that it turns the water a crystal clear green."

"How do you know so much about the history of my people?" asked the guard, still not stopping as he led them toward the giant tree.

Jack replied, "Remember, I’m an ancient hero that was summoned to Modern Kartonia. I’m pretty sure I know more about your country than you do."

"Take that back!" Lunging his finger to Jack, the guard threatened, "Retract that statement or I’ll slay you right now!"

"I’ve already told you that I’d rather not burn Estonya to the ground. But if you start attacking me, how else will I defend myself then by facing you with overwhelming flames?" refuted Jack. "Now, will you keep leading us to the elven chief or shall I lead the way?"

As Jack led the two women and the two beasts past the infuriated guard, the elf shouted, "You know nothing about this place? How dare you assume to know such a sacred place?!"

"Then hurry up and take us there before I walk in on the chief without you. Would that mean you’d get punished?"

Clenching his fists tightly, the guard took a deep breath and dashed ahead of Jack. "Just shut up and let me lead. I don’t want to hear another word from your mouth. Or else..."

"Or else what?"

"Not another word!"

"Someone’s on edge," chuckled Jack. "Why don’t you head back to your guard duties? I can take us there calmly and make sure that--"

"Shut up!" A sword appeared in the guard’s hand, pointing to Jack. "Not another word."

"... Or else what--"

The sword was quickly lunged at Jack, aimed for his arm as to injure the hero and not kill him.

Jack clicked his tongue at the guard, nudging both of the women to the side so they wouldn’t get caught up in the guard’s fury. Narrowly yet easily avoiding the strike, Jack snickered, "Come on, I thought you would lead us there? You made us promise to not wield weapons in the city, yet what about you?"

"Shut up!" Again the guard struck toward Jack, now aiming for his torso.

"Too slow!" Jack allowed the blade to nearly pierce his clothes before activating Sudden Death and appearing behind the elf. "Come on ladies, let’s go meet the chief."

"You--"

"That’s enough!" A bellowing voice shook the party and the guard, as well as all the nearby elves who stopped in their tracks. "No weapons are allowed to be wielded in the city, so explain yourself!"

"You heard him!" spat the guard, glaring at Jack.

"I’m talking to you, Tarmurn!" The mature elf looked down on the guard as he floated in the air overhead, causing the guard to stiffened and bite his tongue. "I told you to bring our guests to my estate yet here you are attacking them instead. Even now, he remains unarmed and has only avoided your strikes. It’s as if he understood our laws better than you, of the nation’s guards! How shameful."

Blood trickled from the guards hand from clenching his fist too tightly. "But Chief Gwendon, this man has only spouted nonsense since he--"

"What nonsense? Was he lying or making up stories when he stated how grand the Ancient Life Tree was? Or did he lie about the existence of the mana spring? Clearly, this summoned hero has visited Estonya many times before during Ancient Kartonia, back when we were open to the world," reasoned the chief. "Is it so hard to believe that a human could respect or admire the natural beauty Estonya has to offer?"

"But--"

"But nothing! Return to your post immediately! And if I see you brandish your sword in city limits again, it’ll be your post!" the elven chief shouted as he descended to the ground before Jack and his party. "Please, forgive that man’s ignorance. Korten isn’t like it used to be."

"I can see that... At least it’s beauty has remained," Jack chuckled, breaking the awkward tension as the guard stormed off.

Chapter 357

Heaving a sigh of relief, the elven chief smiled back at the small party. "Please, follow me."

As Jack’s party followed the chief, they were taken down the main roads and grabbed the attention of most elves they passed. This was in part to having the chief lead them and also in part to them being humans. But most gazes lingered on Daliea in the end, making Jack all the more curious.

After another forty-five minutes of walking, the group finally reached the Ancient Life Tree. Inside the tree’s base, many rooms were carved out but left vacant.

The chief led them to one of the larger rooms and grabbed the handle with green aura surrounding his hand. A latch was heard, activated by the magic, allowing them access to the room. With a smile, the chief held the door open and nodded his head. "Please, after you."

"Thank you, Chief Gwendon." Jack bowed his head as he entered first, followed by the women and the beasts.

Once the party had entered, Gwendon entered the room as well, locking the door behind him again with the same magic. Then, the chief opened his arms and smiled proudly. "This is where I reside. Though this room is my office, that door opposite us leads to my humble abode. So, if you happen to ever need me, you know where to find me."

"Thanks, but I’d like to get straight to business as I don’t have a lot of time to spare, Chief Gewendon." Sitting himself in one of the many seats around the chief’s desk, Jack waited for the chief to sit.

"Right." Once the others found a seat and the chief returned to his desk, Gwendon asked, "I heard that you’re here with the Leisure Guild. Is that correct?"

"That is."

"And you’re also here to visit Lyrun? Is that true as well?"

"Yup, but we’ll be also be visiting Eedaj," added Jack. "Tell me, do you know who that is?"

A confused smile appeared on the chief’s face. "I... I know of him but I’m too young to have ever met him. I’m only one hundred and thirty-two years old, and the last time anyone met with Eedaj was well before the Godly war began."

"Do you know why that is, at least?" asked Jack.

Shaking his head, Gwendon replied, "I’m not entirely sure, but I do know that something offended the god, and the elves, as well as Lyrun, were a part of it."

Wide-eyed, Jack paused for a moment before asking, "Does anyone know what happened exactly? Or would I have to talk with Lyrun about that?"

"I’m sorry, but allow me to warn you about something. Lyrun hasn’t accepted any visitors since the end of the Godly War. The only interactions he has with this place is when the current chief gives him yearly reports or if there were ever an emergency that only he could resolve," explained Gwendon. "Otherwise, he simply stays high up in the Ancient Life Tree."

"So his temple never changed after all this time?" Jack chuckled as he checked the map and verified Lyrun’s location. "Gwendon, what do you call the forest to the north of Korten."

"In history, we’ve referred to it as the Prehistoric Forest due to the size of the ancient trees and wildlife, but lately we’ve referred to it as the Illusory Woods," Gwendon stated.

"Does that mean the forest has changed since then?"

"The forest itself remains the same. What has changed is the magic barrier that surrounds the forest. If someone enters then they will travel in circles for hours unknowingly until they end up exiting exactly where they entered," replied Gwendon.

Jack squinted and asked, "Did you know that Eedaj currently resides in that forest."

"That’s what ancient rumors and legends have told us but it was never confirmed."

"Gwendon, would you mind if we try to visit Lyrun? He’s currently not in his abode, but we’ll wait outside his door it that’s okay with you."

Gwendon blinked. "What do you mean? How could he not be there?"

"Nevermind that then. If you don’t mind us attempting to speak with Lyrun, then let’s talk as the elven chief and the ambassador of the Leisure Guild. Okay?"

"Sure... Jack, what is it that you want to discuss?"

"First, why did you let us into Estonya when your laws typically prohibit such a thing?" asked Jack.

Gwendon replied, "For several reasons actually. Since you’re a former ancient hero as well as a member of the Leisure Guild, that showed you had credibility. And once you mentioned you had business with not only Lyrun but Eedaj, I knew that something was up."

"Why’s that?"

"Because even most elves don’t remember Eedaj and he’s originally from here. Most of the younger generation has only heard tales about him and quickly forgets everything about the god," stated Gwendon. "Honestly, I don’t know much about him either. All I know is that he’s supposedly living in the Prehistoric Forest and has made it his home. But it makes sense to believe that he’s the cause of that strange barrier as well."

"Do you know anything about his origin or his abilities?" questioned Jack, trying to gauge the level of knowledge the ancient civilization could have.

Shaking his head, Gwendon sighed. "I know very little. I know that he’s a master of illusions, making him the best cause for the change in the Prehistoric Forest."

"And Lyrun hasn’t told you anything about Eedaj?" Jack asked with a curious smile. "Feel free to be honest. If Lyrun told you anything but you’re not allowed to say so, tell me now, please."

Gwendon relaxed a bit and looked into Jack’s confident gaze. "Lyrun has warned me to never allow elves into the Prehistoric Forest and that it’s best to not search anything about Eedaj."

"So, the Nature God has decided that the elven race should forget about him... Interesting." Jack softened his smile and slowly scratched his head. "Gwendon, did Lyrun tell you what might happen should an elf enter the Prehistoric Forest? Or did he not go into detail about that?"

"No, he simply stated that no one should enter there and that it’s best to not attempt to seek him out. As for Eedaj’s origin... Honestly, I can’t remember anything about it. I don’t even know why or how Eedaj came to occupy the Prehistoric Forest. Though I do remember that it caused quite an uproar back in the day, according to the story my fathers have passed down," mentioned Gwendon.

"The Prehistoric Forest was a major source of food and a great place for us elves to train and grow stronger back in the day. It’s teeming with wild beasts so it was also a great food source for the villages and towns to the north. But one day, that illusory barrier appeared and changed everything. When confronted about it, Lyrun simply told everyone that a god named Eedaj was now living there and to not bother entering."

Gwendon continued, "Some still tried but either got lost and returned where they entered or they never made it back out. That’s all I know of Eedaj’s origin."

"Really? That’s all?" As if he was startled and unconvinced, Jack asked, "Do you even know what race the god is? If he’s human, an elf, a beast?"

"No." Gwendon shook his head. "Why, do you know, Jack?"

Jack started to break out in quiet laughter, covering his face with his hand. "I guess I know more about him then you... Anyway, allow me to state my purpose in speaking with you before I go and visit Lyrun."

"Very well. Go ahead, Jack."

With a smile, Jack stood up and extended an open hand toward the elven chief. "The Leisure Guild would like to reestablish our trading pact with Korten."

Chapter 358

"The Leisure Guild would like to reestablish our trading pact with Korten."

Baffled by Jack’s sudden offer, Gwendon was at a loss for words. It took him a few moments to gather some thoughts. "Jack... That... I’m not sure we can--"

"Gwendon, what would Korten lose in such a pact?" asked Jack. "If you’re looking for treasures, then we have more than you can count. And if you’re after platinum, we’ve got an abundance of that as well. Is there even a downside to such a deal?"

"That’s hard to believe, Jack," replied the chief, twiddling his fingers atop his desk. "Last I heard, the Leisure Guild was taking a turn for the worse. How could a declining guild have such things, even if it is the ancient Leisure Guild?"

Letting actions speak louder than words, Jack simply smiled and retrieved something from his storage.

As Jack placed the staff on the chief’s desk, the elf’s eyes were instantly drawn to the weapon. "Jack... This is--"

"An elven staff created by ancient, high-level elven mages. It’s a mythic-tier weapon that you traded to us long ago," stated Jack. "Recently, we’ve acquired new high-level members and just revisited our storehouse for the first time since before the Godly War. Do you know what that means, or is Korten not that acquainted with the matters of the world outside its borders?"

"I know of your rumored storehouse, Jack. Being the most ancient surviving guild carries enough weight for me to learn that much. And you’re telling me you’ve finally opened up your storehouse?"

"Gwendon, I’ll cut to the chase. What I’m after is not only the ability to trade with Estonya, which is beneficial for both sides, but to hire your craftsmen. I’d imagine that you’ve still got a few mythic recipes and maybe even a couple of legendary recipes that your people can craft for us, right?" Jack asked with a smile.

Eyeing Jack and carefully selecting his words, Gwendon replied, "And you’re not after the recipes themselves?"

"Nope. I just want to purchase your services. Also, I’m willing to become your exclusive client."

"That... Jack, I can’t agree to such a proposition. To open trade, maybe, but to allow exclusivity would cost you--"

"And what if we can afford it?" asked Jack. "If we can afford it, how about we renew the trading pact and add an exclusivity clause. Every five years we’ll renew it, offering Korten a payment to retain the exclusivity. Does that seem fair so long as we can afford it?"

"If the Leisure Guild can afford that much, why don’t they simply buy items from the auction houses?" asked Gwendon, trying to learn more and find an edge.

"Right, I haven’t introduced my party," Jack suddenly motioned to those around him, acting like he was changing the subject. "That aviary beast is a Minokawa, which I’m sure you’ve heard about."

Getting distracted by the seventh level bloodline beast, Gwendon examined Phoro with his eyes as the Minokawa proudly posed for him.

"This fox is also a Hell-flame Fox," added Jack, stealing the chief’s attention further, "and both are my mutual companions."

Then, Jack pointed to Eliza. "This is one of my wives. Her name is Eliza, the former young master of the Fat Goose auction house."

"Oh..." Catching on to Jack’s hint, Gwendon realized that Jack already had close ties with the auction houses, which increased his interest in negotiating a trade pact. "In that case--"

"And last but not least," Jack continued his introductions, pointing toward the final member of his small part, "we have Daliea, who is more closely related to you than you know. Does the term greis elf mean anything to you?"

The atmosphere had shifted from a somewhat tense negotiation to a friendly meeting to dead silent befuddlement.

"By the look on your face, it seems you know more than you’re letting on, Chief Gwendon." Jack smiled back at the chief, which felt all the more intimidating paired with Jack’s know-it-all stare.

The elven chief closed his mouth and looked down at his desk. Not daring to meet Jack’s gaze, Gwendon asked, "What do you know about greis elves?"

"I asked you first, chief. Does the term greis elf mean anything to you?" Jack repeated, not daring to hold back during the negotiation.

"... Yes, it means something to me," Gwendon calmly replied. "Now tell me, what do you know about greis elves."

"I don’t know much, but I know that Eedaj will want to meet with me," stated Jack, "as he is a greis elf, like my friend Daliea."

Not only was the chief dumbstruck, so were Jack’s party members.

Eliza and Bowzer were staring with mouths agape, looking back and forth between Jack and Daliea while Phoro calmly groomed his feathers.

Daliea was frozen in all senses of the word, apart from being encompassed in ice. Motionless and without words, she was stuck staring at Jack with countless thoughts running laps through her head all at once. There was so much to take in from that one statement.

Gwendon was also baffled. Not only did Jack name a long-forgotten race of elves from the elves’ dark past, he instantly pinned Eedaj as a former member of that race and presented a survivor of that long-lost race as well. Jack was constantly destroying the chief’s expectations with every turn of their conversation and the chief could hardly keep up.

"Gwendon, am I wrong in assuming that you know exactly what I’m talking about?" asked Jack. "Also, am I wrong to assume that the other elves know about greis elves as well?"

Inhaling a deep breath, Gwendon tried his best to calm his mind before speaking. "Jack... I’ll tell you a bit more. We elves know of old stories about a darker time of our history, which does involve greis elves. But only I know that Eedaj is actually one of those ancient elves. That’s something kept within the family of the chiefs."

"Did you recognize Daliea as a greis elf?"

"No, but she does fit the description from our old stories," admitted Gwendon.

Turning to Daliea, Jack smiled nervously. "I’m sorry for not telling you sooner, but I thought it would be better for Eedaj to tell you instead of me. I didn’t plan for the negotiations to be like this."

"Jack... When did you find out?" Daliea quietly asked.

"Just recently while I was exploring the storehouse," answered Jack. "It was when you spoke your ancient language that my subclass allowed me to recognize it as greis elven, an ancient dialect of elven that was long lost. As for how I knew about Eedaj’s race, that’s thanks to my calling Sterfen immediately afterward."

"Then... is that why you--"

"Yes, that’s one reason why I did what I did in the dungeon." Jack didn’t want Daliea to mention the other greis elves that Jack had escorted out of the dungeon, not in front of Gwendon. Knowing she needed it, Jack embraced Daliea without another word. She returned his hug and let her tears run into his chest.

"Jack, now that you know about greis elves and have even found a survivor of the race, what do you plan to do?" asked Gwendon, showing a straight face and not caring about the moment between Jack and Daliea.

Releasing her with a smile, Jack then looked back to Gwendon. "That depends, is there something wrong with that?"

"That’s one of the most well-kept secrets of our race, something we don’t want the world to know about," stated Gwendon, acting serious but still not threatening the party.

"So, you’d like for me to keep this a secret?"

"Yes."

"And how do you plan to do that?" asked Jack. "Make me an offer."

"I won’t--"

"What are you, lv. 73?" Jack asked, cutting the elven chief off with an exact guess. "You’re not strong enough to kill me and face the consequences. I’m a demigod and son to two gods. Also, the Leisure Guild will reduce Estonya to the ground should you dare kill or mean harm to any of us."

 

Chapter 359

"And how can the Leisure Guild make such a claim. Tell me."

"Trust me, we retrieved more than just wealth from the storehouse dungeon, Gwendon. Also, even if you kill me, you’d be the cause of Estonya burning to the ground," stated Jack. "Want me to prove it?"

When Gwendon nodded, Jack walked toward the locked door. "Then it would be best to show you outside. Unless you’d like your house reduced to ash or for the Ancient Life Tree to catch fire."

Immediately standing up, Gwendon approached the door and unlocked it with his magic. "Should you attempt anything to harm my people or our homes, I won’t hesitate to kill you, Jack."

"Gwendon, I would never. I truly admire the natural beauty of Estonya," replied Jack. "It would be a waste to destroy such a place. Also, I still need to visit Lyrun, and it would be hard to explain why such destruction happened while he was absent."

Jack and the party walked through the door, letting Gwendon lock the door behind them. They walked a little until they were in the center of the clearing between the elven homes and the Ancient Life Tree.

"Here should work." Jack nodded and looked to Gwendon. "Make sure no elves come to close, otherwise, don’t say I didn’t warn you."

Nodding, Gwendon waved his arm and created a giant barrier of green energy to keep anyone from getting too close.

"Good, then I’ll show you something really cool," chuckled Jack. "Eliza, Daliea, Phoro, back away please."

When the coast was clear, Jack looked to Bowzer. ’Let’s show them our full strength. Grow as big as you want, let loose!"

Faster than they could blink, Jack’s party and Gwendon felt a flood of heat overtake them. They were in shock at the sudden transformations happening before them.

The fox had grown to legendary proportions, identical to the old tales of woe surrounding the Hell-flame Foxes. But Jack’s transformation was just as intimidating! He was now five meters tall, which didn’t compare to the Hell-flame Fox but was paired with the flaming wings and terrifying draconic eyes.

"See what I mean?" Jack laughed as he flew circles around the Hell-flame Fox, so fast that Gwendon couldn’t believe a man had such speed.

"I see... That’s enough, please."

As Gwendon admitted Jack was correct, both the hero and the fox reverted to their usual forms with pride in their eyes. Jack then walked up to Gwendon and threw his arm around the elven chief. "So, will agree to negotiate with the Leisure Guild for trading exclusivity or not?"

"Jack... I can negotiate trade but it won’t be decided overnight and exclusivity is out of the--"

"It’s either exclusivity or no trade," stated Jack. "You don’t have to agree now, I just want to know if you’re willing to negotiate or not. If not, then I’ll go elsewhere with my offer."

Sighing loudly, Jack released the chief and approached his party members. "Let’s go see Lyrun."

"Jack, it’s not so easy to--"

"Calm down, Gwendon. If I wanted to harm Estonya, don’t you think I would’ve done it by now?" reasoned the hero. "I’m just going to take the path through the center of Ancient Life Tree. Won’t that be fine?"

"That path was destroyed long ago. Only the chiefs can--"

"Then we’ll take the path through your house," Jack continued. "Is that okay with you or not?"

"I can’t let you do that either, Jack. At least allow me to visit Lyrun first and verify that you’ll be allowed in," stated Gwendon, trying to reach a compromise.

Jack squinted as he looked back to his map, still a bit puzzled about what was going on.

"Fine, then I guess we’ll take out leave. Since you’re not interested in exclusivity and don’t wish for us to meet Lyrun, so be it. At least let us visit the Prehistoric Forest before we leave. And I can find my way, so there’s no need for an escort, okay?"

Gwendon made a strange face before he nodded. "Fine, then you can visit the Prehistoric Forest before you exit Korten. Should you wish to negotiate again, please use the proper methods of communication next time so we can prepare for your arrival and negotiate properly."

"Sure thing, Gwendon." Jack waved to the elven chief as he and the party walked away with their backs to him. "Thanks for the chat!"

The elven chief sighed heavily as he watched the small party walking away in laughter and giggles. Their nonchalant demeanor about the whole interaction said a lot to Gwendon about how confident Jack was and made him all the more curious about the man.

Though they were on their way out of Estonya, the party still got plenty of stares, even more than before. Then again, Jack and Bowzer did put on quite a show which was quickly shared through word of mouth throughout the city.

’Jack, what transformation was that?’ Eliza asked telepathically, keeping the party’s conversation between themselves.

’It’s my new upgraded ability. I can now activate up to two bloodline abilities at once,’ Jack answered proudly. ’What you saw was Bowzer’s bloodline mixed with Phoro’s bloodline. It’s probably my best transformation in terms of attack power.’

’Wait... do you have other transformations?’

’There’s one more beast that became my companion named Dragov, letting me have three bloodlines to choose from or three hybrid transformations between them,’ explained Jack. ’That other beast is crazy strong, but his defenses are off the charts. The best all-around transformation would be mixing Bowzer’s and Dragov’s bloodlines and the most defensive would be mixing Phoro’s and Dragov’s bloodlines.’

’So, not only did you grow in level but in ability also? Jack, you’re overpowered now," Eliza teased her husband with a smile.

Jack chuckled, ’I wasn’t before that?’

Bowzer walked with his head held high. A lot of the watching eyes were on him as the elves feared such a legendary beast. It was very different for Phoro, who was quickly ignored beside Jack and Bowzer, but he didn’t care either.

’Daliea,’ Jack called out to the shorter woman, catching her a bit by surprise. ’What’s wrong? You can tell us.’

’Jack... I’m sorry for ruining your negotiations.’

’Nonsense!’ Jack didn’t let Daliea say another word of blame. ’That’s their fault for having issues with your race, not yours. Either way, we’ll still be meeting with Lyrun and Eedaj, so don’t sweat it.’

’How’s that?’ asked the girl who formerly thought herself a goblin.

With a smile, Jack replied for the entire party to hear, ’Because Lyrun has been at the Prehistoric Forest since before we arrived in Korten. I’m not sure why, but he’s been waiting just outside it without moving at all.’

’Great, then I’ll still get to pledge to him!’ shouted Eliza, glad to not be the only party member without a blessing.

As the party eventually reached the city gate, it was opened for them without a word and closed behind them as well. Then, the party changed course and began their trek north.

Not far behind them, a few elves kept watch from the treetops. The lead guard was the same that Jack had angered earlier, but he was feeling much better after hearing that Jack’s meeting with Gwendon didn’t go well and he was ordered to keep an eye on them as they visited the Illusory Woods.

However, that job got a lot harder as Jack stored Bowzer and mounted Phoro along with the women.

In a single flap of Phoro’s great wings, the party rocketed toward their destination far faster than the elves could keep up. A couple of moments later, the party was out of sight and Tarmurn’s spies were left behind, red in the face with anger.

 

Chapter 360

’That’s enough, Phoro!’

The Minokawa chuckled as Jack gave the order to slow down, returning to his usual half speed. ’I hope you get stronger sooner. I want to fly freely, not at a snail’s pace.’

Laughing, Jack looked back to the women as he replied, ’If that’s a snail’s pace, I want to get a snail as my next companion.’

’That’s... too fast...’ Eliza groaned, feeling a headache from that explosion of speed.

Jack tried to comfort her and Daliea. ’Told you to brace yourself. How else were we gonna lose those elves following us?’

’Fine... just don’t do it again,’ replied Eliza.

’Yes, let’s not do that again,’ added Daliea, who felt a bit better since the incident took her mind off the negotiation with Gwendon. ’Are we there now?’

’Not quite,’ Jack answered. ’At this speed, we’ll reach there in a couple of hours. So just relax for now.’

Feeling at ease flying at a more comfortable speed, the party recuperated a bit before resuming their chat. Daliea was the first to kick off the discussion.

’Jack, do you know anything else about my race?’

Shaking his head, Jack replied, ’Sadly, no. All I know is that you’re from an ancient elven race that supposedly disappeared from history by disguising themselves as powerful goblins. But even after that, they were eventually wiped out like your tribe.’

’And what about Eedaj?’

’All I know is that he’s the oldest of your race and that he knows the true history of what happened to your people."

The thought of learning the truth filled Daliea with peace. She instinctively leaned her chest and head into Jack’s back, making herself more comfortable.

Jack didn’t object but he looked back to Eliza, who smiled and nodded.

Eliza was the next person to ask a question. ’Jack, do you think I’ll be able to get Lyrun’s blessing?’

’I would think so,’ answered Jack. ’Sterfen said that he’s a rebel god, so why not?’

’What did Daruun say?’

’I... I didn’t ask Daruun that...’ Recounting his conversations with Daruun, never once did the God of Fate mention getting Lyrun’s blessing as key to Jack’s visit to Korten.

’But do you think I can still get his blessing?’ Eliza asked again.

Jack sighed, ’If he’s too stupid to offer you his legendary blessing, then I’ll find you a new, better blessing. Don’t worry too much, okay Eliza?’

’Okay, darling.’ Eliza’s hand reached past the smaller elven girl and felt Jack’s chest. ’I’ll do as you say.’

’Thanks, hon.’

Jack smiled, enjoying the tender embrace of the two women behind him as they continued toward the Prehistoric Forest.

The next two hours flew by until Phoro asked, ’Jack, I’m guessing that’s the place?’

’Yeah, you can’t miss it,’ chuckled Jack.

The women gradually opened their eyes, getting a full view of the sudden change in plant life ahead. Everything was enormous! The bushes looked more like trees and most of the fauna was taller than them. And the trees... They could only be looked down on by the Ancient Life Tree in Estonya. Otherwise, the Prehistoric Forest might claim to contain the tallest trees in Kartonia.

’Start the descent, Phoro,’ ordered Jack. ’We’re going to meet the Nature God.’

’Sure thing!’

The Minokawa took his time to slow down and land just in front of the massive forest. That was when the party noticed something peculiar.

A thin layer of phantasmal energy faded in and out of existence, surrounding the entire Prehistoric Forest somehow. Jack reached out to touch it but he went right through the barrier instead. It seemed that Gwendon wasn’t lying about the ability to enter the barrier, but he wasn’t sure about what would happen after entering. Keeping that in mind, Jack looked to his party with caution.

’Everyone, we’ll have to stay on our toes once we enter the forest. If the elves haven’t been hunting in there for so long, then there’s no telling what we’ll run into once we’re inside.’ Jack added, ’But before that, Lyrun should be just east of us.’

Leading the party, Jack walked long the illusory border with his map tab in the corner of his view, like a minimap. As he got closer and closer to where Lyrun was marked, Jack eventually came to a halt.

"Lyrun! We know you’re here, so can you make it easy on us and come out already!"

Jack’s shout echoed through the area, bouncing off all the trees and thick foliage. It was nigh impossible to find the god although Jack was certain that Lyrun was nearby. That’s why Jack shouted, hoping that Lyrun was willing to cooperate.

"Very well... Does that mean you’re with Daruun?"

A soft, androgynous voice reverberated through the wooded area, coming from everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

"That depends, are you?" replied Jack.

"A good answer..." Suddenly, the bark of the tree three meters ahead of Jack started to peel apart, slowly creaking a cavity within. From that cavity emerged a tall man with elven features and vitality, unlike anything Jack had witnessed before. The man then cast a gigantic barrier to engulf their surroundings and spoke, "I am Lyrun. It’s a pleasure to meet with the man I assume is Daruun’s champion. It’s been a long time coming."

"Lyrun... So, it’s true that you’re one of the rebel gods?" asked Jack.

The Nature God nodded. "That’s correct. Please, speak freely as no one can hear or see what’s taking place in this space."

"Have you been expecting us?"

"In a way, yes. I was recently told that Daruun had been summoned and have been waiting here since then," stated Lyrun.

Jack tilted his head and asked, "Who told you?"

"No one that you would know," answered Lyrun. "But that source is entirely reliable so I don’t doubt it. And now that you’re here before me, you’ve confirmed that he was correct."

"What else do you know?" questioned Jack. "Do you know anything about the plans of the Neutral Gods?"

"I know nothing of the sort," Lyrun stated, shaking his head.

"Then let me fill you in a bit, but first allow me to introduce a few people." Motioning to his party members, Jack introduced them, "This is Phoro and this is Bowzer. I assume you already know what types of beasts they are, so allow me to introduce the two people most interested in you. First, there’s my wife Eliza who wishes to pledge to you. And second, there’s Daliea who’s a surviving member of the fallen greis elves."

Lyrun kept his slight smile but took a deep breath in through his nose. "I see. Well, allow me to say that it would be better that she doesn’t receive my blessing, as I can’t offer the legendary blessing your most likely after."

"Why not?" asked Jack.

"Someone else is currently using that blessing, that’s why." Looking to Daliea, Lyrun’s slight grin shift to a small frown. "Allow me to first apologize for what occurred in the distant past to your people, Daliea. And please know that it was all my fault."

Caught off guard, the party looked to Lyrun with curious eyes. Daliea was feeling a tumult of different emotions, differing from rage to empathy and sorrow to courtesy.

Lyrun continued with a humble bow. "I’m certain that you’ll soon be meeting with Eedaj, so I won’t go into detail about the past. I just wanted to formally apologize. You’re welcome to hate me as my brother Eedaj has grown to."

"Your brother? You and Eedaj are brothers?" Jack asked.

With a nod, Lyrun mentioned, "That’s true, yes, but the reason I came was to warn you. What is your name, by the way?"

"Right, my name is Jack. I’m a summoned hero that’s technically under the Adventurers Association but I’m more focused on the revival of Trodar and the Leisure Guild," Jack finally introduced himself.

"Leisure Guild... And a summoned hero... Are you Jack J., perhaps?"