The city of Tallah was huge. For the first time, I saw the Barrier Tower that only major cities had. A soaring structure with pulsing, blue lights at the top. It looked more like a spire. It was one of the best defense mechanisms this world had, deploying a barrier at the moment’s notice that could encircle the whole town. I wasn’t even sure how high it was or how they built it.

Calmly walking next to the carriage, the streets of Tallah were wide and crowded. Buildings towered above the people, created from a material that highly resembled blocks of limestone. I was shocked by the sheer difference in lifestyle and culture. The luxury here was apparent at first glance. Perhaps not so much on the outskirts, but the deeper we went, the more extravagant it became, and this wasn't even the capital...

A few aristocrats were in the streets with their servants or traveling in lavish carriages pulled by exotic beasts, the large roads allowing two-way traffic. Some adventurers were riding on large mounts while the city guards stood on every corner, armed to the teeth. I was surprised they actually had horses here. Well, the things were much larger, resembling fierce warhorses. Huge Association branches were open, constant waves of people going in and out. Merchants sold all kinds of exquisite trinkets on the road sides, business was flourishing. Even the commoners didn't appear to be in a tough situation. Everyone seemed to be living with ease. Almost everyone.

I could see the homeless and beggars hiding away in the shadows of the alleys, they didn’t dare walk in to the open. Staying out of sight and out of the way, many of them appeared to be starved and diseased. Seeing this, I could relate to them considering that had been me not too long ago. Hungry, sick and discarded. If they dared to go onto the streets, the guards would swiftly beat them and chase them away. Once one paid closer attention, the decay was deeply rooted into this twisted society.

A woman dared exit the alley. She was begging for money and food with a crying infant cradled in her bosom, her face covered in bruises. Everyone turned a blind eye, walking past her with disgusted faces, some treated her as if she were invisible. I knew those kinds of faces very well, I had felt them on my own skin. Contempt, judgment, and ridicule. The nature of the people of this world was no different than that of a human back on Earth. Human nature never changes. Here though? Everyone’s actions were seen as right and proper, it was how it ‘should’ be.

Surprisingly, I saw a lone, petite figure concealed by a dark green cloak approach the begging woman. Judging by the frame, it was a woman and the cloak didn't look cheap. Moreover, she was walking in a dignified manner. A noble perhaps? The mystery woman was taller than average, but that was all I could distinguish since I was too far away from them. The more I stared, the more something strange stirred at the back of my mind. Nonsensible whispers sounded in my head, a dark, familiar feeling settling in my gut. As if the world was slowly fading into the background, I stared at the cloaked figure in confusion. The smells of the street vanished, leaving only the scent of freshly cut mint and honey. It was a sweet and refreshing fragrance. I could tell it wasn't a perfume but the woman’s natural scent. Feeling muddled, I kept observing her from a distance in a trance.

Walking to the begging woman, she stopped to look at her. Her cloaked body quaked for a second before I saw a pale hand reach out towards the beggar. She was holding something out and tossed it to the woman. It was a small leather pouch. The lady with an infant bowed over and over again before running off into the alley, not wanting to be caught by guards.

The cloaked woman stood in silence for a while, staring into the alley. Just as she was about to leave, her body trembled and she turned in my direction. The whispers intensified. Our eyes locked for split second before she bolted and disappeared in the crowd. Like a sucker punch, the world came back into motion, making me stumble in shock. What the hell was that? There was something strange about the woman, I wasn’t able to see her face, only a pair of dark, indigo eyes. There was something very familiar about the stifling feeling but it was gone before I could get my bearings.

I shake my head, glaring in the direction where the cloaked woman ran. She was definitely a noble. Considering she didn't want to show her face, she was probably ashamed of being seen near the poor. Or was the 'righteous' lady playing hero? Whatever her reasons, she did help, making me a witness to the first and only show of kindness I’d seen since I got here. Even though it might have been just to feel good about herself or a mere whim. I don’t believe in conscience, there was only survival. I have no doubt the beggar would have sold her infant into slavery the first chance she got. That is what people do, they abandon their children, sell out their families as soon as things get too hard.

Putting the event to the back of my mind for now, we passed through the town slowly due to heavy traffic. Within an hour, we reached the bastard’s residence. Thanks to me and my glaring, people got out of our way, cutting down the time. The estate was located on the northern outskirts of Tallah and, I'll admit, it was an impressive one. It wasn't overly trashy, but still very lavish. A huge courtyard surrounded the mansion, the well-kept gardens reminding me of European graveyards with high hedges and rich plant life. The gravely road led to the entrance of the mansion, making a roundabout that had a small fountain in its center. The mansion was pure white in color while the light gray roof created contrasted with it beautifully. It had a large number of perfectly symmetrical windows and a huge entrance. Silver designs decorated the doorway where a maid was waiting with a stoic face. Seeing a stable on the side, I noted that was probably where Kala and Thor would be kept.

A tall woman slowly exited the mansion, making me wince in discomfort as a strong, sour perfume entered my nose. I stared at the young woman as Patrick walked in her direction. I stayed with the Raptors, hissing at the stable boy who treated Kala too roughly for my liking. He backed off as I patiently removed the straps on the two and pointed to the stables. Seemingly understanding, they cooed lightly and actually listened to me. It was clear that they were familiar with the procedure.

Turning my attention back to the frowning lady, I lifted a brow at her appearance. Her face could be considered beautiful if it wasn’t for the disgusting amount of make-up and powder on it. Her cheeks were so caked in blush, it gave them a grainy texture. The large rack showed off her assets, her clothes exotic and colorful, full of frills and bows. Her blonde hair was wrapped up around itself like a bun, the corset making me question if she could even breathe. Her expression was extremely cold as she fanned herself. She spoke to the maid without looking at her, “What is this, thing... that my husband has brought and left outside a cage so irresponsibly?”

The maid bowed deeply as she spoke with respect, “This is the creature Master bought near Fort Town, Mistress. I… I am unsure of what it is. A few months ago, we received news that some farmers got their hands on a Predator ranked hatchling. The Master left shortly after. It is my understanding the Master wishes to take it to the Colosseum in Velegard as soon as possible.”

For the first time, she glanced at the maid, “As soon as possible?” her face stretched with an unbecoming grin, “Hahaha, lovely!” she turned on her heel and left.

As she disappeared without even acknowledging Patrick. He grumbled under his breath, hatefully glaring, “Cheeky whore...” I whistled a low tune and grinned. Patrick seemed to have some drama in his life, hah, trouble in paradise it seemed. The man turned to glare at me, “You think this is funny?!” He directly took the whip from Clay and fiercely swung it at me. Shocked at the abnormal outburst, I lifted my hands in time to prevent the barbs from skewering my face. Sparks flew as the whip brushed my forearms, cutting my thigh on the way down. Hissing, I made a step forward in threat but the collar froze me in place. Standing there, twitching in anger, I could do nothing.

With a red face, Patrick cursed and tossed the whip into the bushes, stomping into his mansion while fuming something about being disrespected left and right. As the large double doors opened with a bang, I could see a bunch of people lined up, bowing to the bastard respectfully while he ignored them. I could tell some were slaves, others simple servants considering the lack of slave contracts. Money was power, I guess.

Still having difficulty breathing, I glanced at my thighs, the shallow wounds already healed. The noble didn’t have the strength to do any real damage. It still pissed me off, being treated like a stress relief. Clay stood at the side, eyeing me cautiously as if waiting for me to explode. Motioning for me to enter, Clay spoke, “Let’s go, were only staying here for a day or two. I’m guessing you already heard but the Arena will be starting some high-stake battles soon and the boss wants to get there on time. He already instructed me to keep an eye on you. He doesn’t wish to see or hear of you for the remainder of your stay here. Don’t cause trouble or I will punish you.” he said calmly while picking up the whip and tying it to his belt.

Not letting my emotions show, I was led inside. The interior was a lot more luxurious than the exterior. Hundreds of paintings and portraits decorated the walls as a huge chandelier dangled from the ceiling. A carpet that resembled a golden Persian rug was draped over the marble floor while the walls had intricate carvings and decors. The fancy furniture fit into the pristine picture.

The servants ignored us and went about their business as Clay led me to a small room on the ground floor that resembled a broom closet. There was nothing in the room but a small cot and a single table. I eyed the barred window that stood a bit higher than the rest, its frame a lot narrower. Aww, my own little jail cell, how nice.

“Stay in here until you’re summoned.” Clay said casually before closing the door and locking it with a click, before the sound of grinding metal let me know this indeed was somewhat of a jail. Staring at the door, I couldn’t help but grin. In his blind rage, Patrick overlooked the fact that HE did not give very specific orders. In fact, the one who told me to stay here was Clay, who, in theory, shouldn’t have any power over me. Looking back at the high window, I smiled.

***

Three days later, Patrick showed his ugly face. He barged into my ‘broom closet’ themed jail with his signature grin, “Rise and shine, my dear goldmine. Time to leave this dreary place. Velegard awaits! Ahaha!” he was in a disturbingly good mood, I noted and shrugged. He left immediately, shouting at Sen to prepare everything.

Sighing, I shake my head as my tail flicks in annoyance, but give a small smile. Clay gave me a strange look, frowning as we walked out into the courtyard. I didn't just stay idle for these past few days, locked in here and twiddling my thumbs. Thinking about my successful secret venture, I couldn’t help but feel happy something finally went my way. I spent my days in the jail, reading the books I managed to steal during the night. The nights were spent snooping about this overly large mansion. The window was easy enough to pry open, removing the bars as simple as flicking my finger and I made sure not to be seen or heard. I poked around his stuff, digging around the many useless rooms until I found a huge library and stole some interesting titles. I knew there wasn’t going to be enough time to finish them, but just skimming through them seemed to be enough to find out some things. I also found a booklet for the Arena.

Special competitions for monsters, beasts, and warriors were organized there. The three main sections of the Colosseum were the Pits, the Ring, and the Arena. Each a stage higher and in a few days, the high-stakes battles will be beginning. It was a place where contract holders could make their slaves or familiars fight in life and death battles, earning money in the process. After a membership card was created, the fighters could start fighting in the Pits and move their way up until they qualified to contest within the Arena. Matches were fought either to the death or until the opponent surrendered and lost the ability to fight. They were officially called a Death Match and an Open Match.

If the fighter kept winning, his rank rose. In other words, the more you win the harder it gets. Only the strongest fighters and warriors who had reached S-rank could fight there. Of course, all the winnings go to the contract holders. The fiercest opponents in the whole Colosseum were the ones owned by the Colosseum itself. They had some of the most powerful warriors, monsters and beasts in the whole country. By the look of it, while some fighters willingly battled just for the profit, the gladiators lived and strived for combat.

Interestingly, there was also a special competition that takes place at the end of every week called the Gamble. In those fights, people risked losing the ownership over their contract to the Colosseum, but stood to gain great riches in case they won. The rules were designed to draw in the competitors. The Colosseum couldn’t challenge anyone, contract holders had that privilege. Secondly, the fighter had to be at least A rank or higher to qualify for the Gamble. Thirdly, killing was strictly prohibited during the fight. The Colosseum had a strong impartial policy, taking no bribes or having any tolerance for cheating. It was governed by a single person.

I had a feeling there was more to this place than it meets the eye. It might be exactly what I need to break the loop or might just be another new and improved hell. Only time would tell. My best find though, was the book on magic. It was very basic but gave me enough to understand that there were ways of countering it as well as information on contract magic. It could only be removed by the owner. I already knew there were different kinds of contracts, but what I didn't know was that there was one I hadn't heard of before. Even in this book, it was only mentioned in a few sentences.

The contract of equals, an elusive little bugger that has almost been erased from the records.

It was created by a mutual agreement of two parties. A partnership of sorts. Nothing holding the other back, it was mostly for the benefit of both. What that entailed, I had no clue, and the book didn’t go into detail. It made it clear that nobody wanted that kind of contract since it carried too much risk. Monsters and beasts were not considered or trusted to be equal to the ruling races. The book actually made a mockery of the person who invented it. Objectively, it was reasonable, but in my honest opinion, utter bullshit.

Finding a suitable person would probably be impossible for me. I was aware of that, but I refused to live like this, there had to be a way out. I feel like a day will come when I just snap and get myself killed for nothing. For now, I decided I needed to participate in the Gamble and lose. The tricky part was finding a way to get the bastard to make the bet. It was going to take a lot of effort and acting on my part. I'll have to win every fight until he believes he really hit the jackpot. Once the Gamble is lost, he'll no longer have a say in the matter. He'll have no choice but relinquish the contract and then... then I'll make him pay. What comes after, I’ll eventually find out.

Waiting in the courtyard, watching as they prepared the carriage for the journey, I couldn’t help but feel slightly worried. Although I was strong, I wasn’t entirely sure I had what it takes to actually go toe to toe with someone who truly knows what they’re doing. I fight by following my instincts and have no real skill to speak off. I might be fast and physically strong with natural weapons and armor, but I didn’t have real fighting skills. So far, my battles were won by fighting dirty and overpowering my opponents. Learning some hand-to-hand combat would do me a lot of good.

I could safely assume fighters in the Arena were completely different from the wild beasts and the few adventurers I've faced so far. These will all be trained and bred for fighting. I’ll have to take things very seriously from this point on. Too much was at stake. I had a feeling that the bastard was going to make me fight in Death Matches for only one reason - they paid more. In a way, it was good I didn’t have to hold back, but it still meant there was as high a chance I could die. I wasn’t invincible.

Sighing in frustration, I petted Kala absentmindedly. The other interesting thing I learned about magic was that it could be used by anyone, considering they had an affinity for it. Only once the affinity was determined could a person begin learning the theory and actually using it. With magic, inborn talent was everything. It could open and close doors at the same time.

Magic could actually be used thanks to a specific organ all living things in this world had, a mana gland or, how it was unofficially called, the mana core. Located in the center of the chest, the thing filters raw mana from the air and allows it to be harnessed and used. However, it takes time for the gland to mature which determines the compatibility with six main affinities. Fire, earth, air, water, light and darkness. The two primary affinities were darkness and light. From them, the secondary affinities developed. Fire and earth from darkness and water and air from light. They interfere and complement each other at the same time. It was all quite complicated, making me dislike magic even more. It was annoying that those who had fire at their disposal could also use lighting. Just like those with water could use ice. All sorts of combinations were possible if you knew the theory behind it.

Oftentimes, the gland never matured, staying dormant or just being crippled. Many tried to forcefully release it, but every attempt ended in death. Even some natural awakenings ended this way. People without mana were completely vulnerable to magic. Like me, for example. I couldn’t hope to overcome something like magic, I was like a sitting duck in front of it.

The only creatures that differed from everyone else were called the Ancients. They carried a literal Immortal core, a priceless pearl that had unique power and granted them longevity. Although all monsters and magical beasts could eventually manifest an Immortal core, it was a rare event. Beasts and monsters didn't really need to comprehend magic since it was something naturally integrated into their instincts. Unfortunately, at this point in time, I had no idea what I was or what to expect. I might have no magic power or talent to speak of, considering my demonic heritage, I really might not even develop the thing. Demons usually had shit magic affinity. They were powerful fighters and excellent in close combat, but their cores had a different quality to them, the harnessed mana boosting their bodies instead. A demon who could cast magic was very rare, but not unheard of. I honestly didn’t like my odds.

I've been trying to understand how this body worked on a deeper level so I learned the basic meditative technique from the book. It required concentration, but it could also help increase the mana capacity if it was done correct and often. Only yesterday did I manage to get it right. I was disappointed when I realized how miniscule the damn thing was. It was the size of a small pebble, barely 1 cm in diameter when the average was 3 cm. It was strange to be able to view oneself like that. The little organ was jet black, radiating a weak violet pulse, thin veins contracting on its surface. I sighed in frustration, hoping it eventually develop, or I had no hope of fighting off magic...

I remained calm, slowly reviewing my newfound knowledge as the servants set some large cases on the back of Patrick’s carriage. After preparing everything, everyone got on and we started moving again. The restraints were tight on my neck. Glancing at Perry and Sen who unattentively drove the coach, I gave a small pause, considering what I was about to do, before carefully pressing the tip of my tail against Sen’s lower back mid walk.

Sen felt it and froze, glancing at me from the side nervously. The restraints barely reacted as my intentions were ‘pure’ in a way. A little quirk I noticed during all this time, I couldn’t hurt just anyone, but threatening was fair game unless it was directly ordered against. Perry didn’t notice a thing, staring into the distance with a bored face.

“Calm down… Make one wrong move and see what happens” I hissed threateningly, making sure only Sen and Perry could hear. Seeing as how in the long journey here, the two had mouthed off without restraint, it was safe to assume the carriage has some sort of isolation. Perry finally saw what was going on and almost shouted out, but Sen grabbed his mouth and shook his head, sweat dripping from his brow. Suddenly becoming deathly still, I could see them quiver.

“Good boys. I have a few questions and you will calmly and quietly answer me.” I continued before grinning, “But I’m sure you need some convincing first, no? After all, I need you to keep your mouths shut.” I muttered maliciously.

I had previously learned a few peculiarities about these two and I was going to completely use them to my advantage. Pushing my tail around Perry instead, I let Sen feel the razors as it wrapped around them threateningly. My tongue flicked out unconsciously, “So, guys… how have your families been getting by while you follow your little boss around?”

Their quivering suddenly stopped, they glared at me in disbelief while I tilted my head, “Do you think I’m bluffing? It was quite surprising when I learned Perry married a human. Leslie, right? Poor, poor Leslie, she has to take care of herself in that unforgiving little village. I heard they don’t commend that kind of relationship…” I hummed with an undertone to my whisper, feeling his eyes widen in shock.

Turning my head I chuckled, “And to think Sen had an adorable little brother and pitiable old mother, serving under Patrick’s own roof... wouldn’t it be a shame if they became collateral damage when I’ll come back to rip out Patrick’s throat? And I promise, I will. Stopping by Perry’s home would be quite a simple thing to do. You know, to say hello to Leslie.” my tone was very cheerful as their dread oozed out uncontrollably.

I moved my tail away, “But this of course won’t happen if you cooperate obediently and keep your mouths shut. If you have doubts that I will ever escape… then I guess that’s just a risk you’re willing to take.” I said calmly, fully prepared for that outcome as well.

Perry was the one who spoke first, “W- what do you want…”

Grinning widely, I cracked my neck to the side, “What is Patrick really up to?”

“He… we’re taking you to Velegard where he wants to use you to win as many fights as possible then make you fight in the high-stakes. We’re just coach drivers, we don’t know more than that...” he said with a quivering voice. Frowning I hiss, “Then what the hell do you know about the Colosseum? Who runs it?”

Sen interjected, “We don’t know much, just that the venerable sir Evergreen owns the Colosseum. He’s a high elf on the Terra Silva council, a very powerful and influential man from an elven noble family, rumored to hold the most control over Velegard.”

“Have you ever seen the fights?” I ask, calmly this time.

They relax slightly before shaking their heads. Useless, I click my tongue in annoyance, “Fine. Just forget this ever happened and I won’t do anything to you or your families. Consider yourselves warned though.”

They stayed quiet, not letting out peep for the rest of the way. Within three days, I could spot a giant Barrier Tower in the distance, the fact we still had a few hours left to even reach Velegard showed just how large it was. The faint glow acted as a lighthouse, making sure everyone knew which way to go.

Once we reached the high, stone walls, I was surprised how much security was around. Soldiers walked on the top of the walls with large crossbows, two tall watchtowers showing that they were prepared for war at moment’s notice. A long line of people, carts and carriages made me realize it would take a few more hours before we could even enter the damn city. Around 10 guards stood at the huge stone gates, checking identifications and searching the carts and carriages. The wooden bridge allowed two-way traffic, however, only one at a time could pass from both sides, a deep moat stretching along the walls. Squinting my eyes, I could spot two more long lines far away on the left and right from our position. Velegard must have had entrances on all sides.

Feeling bored, I zoned out, idly playing with the Raptors. Kala bit my fingers playfully before licking my face in good humor. Chuckling, I spent my time with them as we gradually reached the bridge. The guards were collecting entrance fees, 5 gold per person. I scowled at the obvious rip off, were they on drugs or something? Wasn’t that way too much?

Walking forward, they stopped us for documentation. Patrick and Clay got off the carriage. The bastard greeted the guards with friendly smile, making small talk as they checked all the identification. I spotted my contract amongst those papers, noting that Patrick was carrying them with him at all times. He pointed at me and made some grand gestures, “Dear sirs, that there is simply my slave, no need to worry as I have firm control.”

Eyeing me carefully, one of the guards returned his papers and nodded, “Very well, sir Sullwa, make sure to keep it on a tight leash and don’t cause trouble.” Patrick laughed enthusiastically and paid the fee before they let us pass, finally entering Velegard.