Chapter Twenty-Eight

Setting up in Dimquth

I nibbled aimlessly on a piece of jerky while skimming the notes I’d written over the past few hours. Nearby, various vials, jars, and bottles were filled with “Jivyador bits.” Wisps of shadow clung to my surroundings, proof of the efforts I’d given to purifying the corruption in the area. The only thing I’d left untouched were the samples near me.

“You want us to investigate, Reiz’tar?” Yumeko questioned.

“Nalithor and I need to rely more on our comrades and less on the Vorpmasian Empire,” I murmured, continuing to skim my notes. “Besides, they’re not ready to hear what the Jivyador are. We would be creating problems for ourselves if we went to them with the samples.”

“Very well, Reiz’tar. I will have them brought to your domain so our scholars can begin their studies at once.” Yumeko nodded fervently as I glanced over the paper at her. After scribbling a little more, I handed the stack of notes to her as well.

We parted ways and I followed the stone path into Dimquth to search for Nalithor and Fihr. Most of the citizens and guards alike had returned to their homes for the evening, allowing me to wander the spiraling streets in peace. Eventually, I found the pair at the very bottom of the city, overlooking the farmland below.

“There you are.” Nalithor glanced over his shoulder at me. “What did you find?”

I came to a stop alongside them. “I’m not sure yet. The Vulin are taking samples back to our domain for study.”

“We think the Jivyador came from the Nrae’lmar Continent, but we’re not sure how they got here.” Nalithor crossed his arms over his chest, his expression darkening. “Since they were able to appear inside the city, I don’t think they traveled here from Nrae’lmar using more traditional methods. However, Dimquth has been here for a while. The Jivyador could have attacked sooner.”

“My question is why they wanted to attack Fihr.” I glanced over at the land god, who shrugged. “The Devillian queen was the primary threat to your people, right?”

“Yes. I’ve never seen individuals like these ‘Jivyador’ before.” Fihr frowned. “I wish to learn more, but I am tired.”

“As am I. We can continue our discussion tomorrow.” Nalithor nodded to Fihr.

With that, Fihr led us to a small house that had been prepared for us. Once the land deity was gone and Nalithor had locked the front door, I sighed heavily and placed a hand on one him. “We’re staying here?”

“I’m not convinced more Jivyador won’t appear,” Nalithor answered, grimacing. “We will stay here and deal with any threats that arise. The Vulin will bring us dinner soon.”

“Then I should go take a bath…” I grimaced down at myself.

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