“Let’s put an end to this conversation. It went on a lot longer than I anticipated, and Sylvie must be anxious by now. Don’t speak to her about what we talked about… she doesn’t need to know everything right now.“ Nox was looking at Sylvie as his eyes flickered and the barrier dissipated.

“I know.” Ilene nodded in agreement.

Witnessing the interaction between Nox and Ilene, people looked at them curiously, but mainly Sylvie’s family. They saw both with varying expressions, especially Nox and his gaze; it was a bit different compared to before, but Ashuen noticed it the most. Like he remembered something that evoked true rage but kept it under control.

‘Master gave her a soul talisman… Very well.’ Nyx saw Ilene holding the talisman.

Seeing that they were finished speaking, Sylvie ran up to Nox and Ilene.

“Is everything fine? “ Sylvie spoke a bit worriedly.

“Hey, don’t worry, we only had a little chat. Good job! You found an impressive husband. “ Ilene hugged Sylvie with a smile.

“We’re not married yet…” Sylvie blushed and looked at Nox.

“Master is far more than impressive. There is no other being as capable. “ Nyx appeared from behind Sylvie, looking at Ilene as if mocking her ignorance.

“You! “ Ilene glared angrily at Nyx.

“Me what? “ Nyx smirked coldly before walking up to Nox and locking arms with him.

“What are you doing? “ Nox glanced at Nyx.

“Hugging your arm, master? “ Nyx's red eyes gazed innocently at Nox.

*sigh”

‘Stop messing around. That woman, Ilene… she reincarnated from Earth.’ Nox didn’t show that he was speaking mentally to Nyx.

‘Really? Master… did she mention those filthy beings?’ Nyx’s eyes turned sharp.

‘That’s right. It turns out that they’re here and also act the same. They’re hunting reincarnator’s, amongst many others… I wonder if that’s what the case was on Tian as well. And how do they know who has remembered or not? What can they see? Damn, I really don’t know how that information escaped our grasp and Elise had to speak of it. Why no one said anything to me before...’ Nox said thoughtfully, slightly frustrated.

‘Scum! We will get the information we desire and eradicate them for their deeds! ’ Nyx expressed malevolently.

‘Mmm, right. Their only road leads to nothingness!’ Nox’s gaze turned cold for a moment, before turning back to normal and telling Nyx everything else him and Ilene spoke about.

‘How intriguing. I’ll follow your will, master.’ Nyx gazed at Nox.

‘We’ll save this matter for another time. If we come across an incident, we can deal with it then. Let go of what happened with Ilene. Actually, don’t worry about similar matters so much in the future… You know what’s real or not.’ Nox looked at her.

Nodding slightly, Nyx let go of Nox

“Alright, Ilene, I shall forgive your lack of vision. Sylvie let’s move to that table over there, I must try that food! “ Nyx’s mood took a 180 as she moved to the end of one of the long tables with food on it.

‘She is unbelievable. What a fanatic.’ Ilene thought.

“Sylvie, how about we join her? You too, Mel. “ Ilene looked at Sylvie and Mel who appeared a little later after Nyx.

“I will have to decline, Lady Ilene, it would be inappropriate. “ Mel refused politely.

“No, you’ll join us! “ Sylvie glared at Mel.

“… very well, second young miss. “ Mel relented, yet felt warm inside.

“Nox, aren’t you coming with us? “ Sylvie queried because Nox was standing there silently.

“Go on without me, I think I should join your mother and siblings. “ Nox gazed at Sylvie.

Looking into Nox’s eyes, Sylvie nodded “Okay, I’m sure my brother and sister want to finally speak with you. “

Going their separate ways, Nox head towards the table Ashuen, Glenn, and Avera were seated at.

“Ah, Nox, it’s good you came. “ Ashuen stood up and gave Nox a warm hug.

Seeing her doing that so straightforwardly, Nox froze.

“Ash-“ Nox began to speak.

“I’ll have none of that; call me mother from now on. You’re to be family, after all. “ Ashuen looked sternly at Nox.

“…That’s. You don’t even know much about me. How old I am. How old Nyx is. It wouldn’t have been a big deal, but I’m with Sylvie now… She accepted us, but…” Nox expressed solemnly.

Sure, age didn’t matter in general after a point, but now he felt awkward because they’re to be family. Bigger gaps then theirs probably existed here, and especially on Tian, but how could you not feel nervous when you, yourself are met with that situation? How would they react? He ended up with their youngest daughter and was almost certainly older than the combined age of her immediate family.

“Nox, I already see you’re abnormal. Your vision, your aura. Both you and Nyx. Regardless of anything, you three are clearly bound by your souls. It is a part of nature and part of life itself, therefore it’s now as if you’re naturally family. “ Ashuen expressed gently.

“That’s right, Nox, my mother is correct. Abrupt as it may be, as old as you may be, it has been ordained by the natural world that your lives are connected. Why wouldn’t we also accept you and Nyx? “ Glenn stood, extending his hand, while Avera nodded in agreement.

'Nature, huh?' Nox reflected. All souls originated from the natural energies, even his.

“My name is Glenn Ragnarr, Sylvie’s older brother. 377 years old, a husband and father, and a Colonel in the Eastern borders. I'm stationed under my father, but I took temporary leave for Sylvie’s birthday. Like my father, I specialize in fire magic.

That is my younger sister and Sylvie’s older sister, Avera. 251 years old, she has a husband and children. She’s a Captain also under my father, and like my mother, she specializes in water magic. “ Glenn looked at Nox.

Observing Glenn’s brown eyes, Nox could tell he’s being sincere. Extending his hand, Nox shook Glenn’s.

“Very well. “ Nox said as he opened up a mana barrier, only allowing them to hear his next words.

Looking at his actions, Ashuen, Glenn, and Avera appeared surprised.

“I never expected to tell so many, yet here we are. Since you are sincere, I will be as well…” Nox looked at them seriously.

“You should already know, but my full name is Nox Ferrum… 7,542 years old, widower to a wife who died over 7,000 years ago, and father to a daughter I had with her. I have no occupation, nor allegiances. I don't know what my affinities are, but I might specialize in Conjuration and Lightning.

As for Nyx, she has no surname. Her exact age is unknown, even to her, but she’s about 19,000 years old. No spouses or children. She has no occupation and knowing her, she would probably say her only allegiance is to me. Her specialties appear to be Darkness and Blood. “

Gazing at Nox, all three couldn’t help but feel surprised.

‘So, he was married and has a child…Widowed for 7,000 years yet isn’t married again after that long? Unbelievable. And Nyx, her only relationship is with Nox after such a long life. These two… how unique. ’ Ashuen thoughtfully looked at Nox with a gentle look in her eyes. Next to her, Glenn and Avera were thinking the same, albeit slightly surprised at their ages.

“I’m sorry for your loss, Nox. You really didn’t need to worry. Please take care of Sylvie. She’s 100 now and has been past the age of maturity for many years, but she’s very inexperienced, only knowing a small area around the city and what’s read in books or seen in recording orbs. “ Glenn expressed sincerely.

Nox and Nyx’s ages were slightly surprising, but it didn’t matter. Races of varying ages and lifespans married and had children, such an elf with a human, or demon with a human. It was rare, but that was all.

“Yes Nox, take care of little Sylvie. What has happened today has been no coincidence, so I’m… going to put my trust in you. “ Avera looked seriously at Nox. She didn’t say much, but she wanted Nox to understand how important Sylvie was to her.

“Even if the heavens themselves collapse, nothing will ever take her life. That’s one matter I can promise with absolute certainty. “ Nox expressed with a vow, feeling relieved and then remembering what Glenn said.

‘Recording Orbs? I do recall seeing some in the library… advanced water magic used to visually record whatever’s in your sight. I should probably get some just in case.’ Nox thought for the future.

‘Nox… do you realize you said that more for yourself, and not for Glenn and Avera?’ Ashuen silently observed, feeling sympathy and happiness. Sympathy for his loss, and happiness for his resolve and care towards Sylvie.

“Nox, I really am deeply sorry for your loss… I couldn’t imagine losing Valcor. “ Ashuen glanced at Valcor who was talking with Hayde.

“It was a long time ago. I have a new life now. “ Nox expressed with a smile as he looked towards Nyx and Sylvie, before his expression darkened.

“YOU DARE? “ Nox’s voice boomed incredibly loud like thunder, as a shockwave of mana exploded outwards towards Sylvie, Nyx, Mel and Ilene, clearing the area around them.

Next to Nox, Ashuen, Glenn, and Avera were unaffected by his yell, as he controlled it.

*tink tink tink*

Multiple sounds as if metal hitting stone or other metal resounded within the hall. Around the four, eight daggers of various design’s, shrouded in dense black, were on the ground. Moments later, the floor made from precious materials began dissolving around the daggers.

“Death’s Touch, the signature poison of Death’s Hand! “ Gasps were heard around the room after they heard Nox and saw the daggers.

“ASSASSINS IN MY OWN HOME? YOU’RE SEEKING DEATH! “ Valcor roared as flames erupted from his body and a large double-sided axe appeared in his hands.

A large hand coated in darkness suddenly pressing down on his shoulder, Valcor calmed when he heard the words “Settle down, old friend… I think it’s best you send the others away and don’t interfere. “

Glancing at Hayde and then around the hall, Valcor thought quickly and removed his flames “My friend’s, I’m thankful that you all attended my daughter’s banquet, however I’m afraid it must end here. I’ll issue an official apology and compensation at a later date. GUARDS, ESCORT OUR GUESTS OUTSIDE! “ Valcor yelled loudly, as guards immediately came inside from outside the hall.

After a brief dozen seconds, everyone inside the hall was gone, save for Hayde, Ilene and Mel, Sylvie’s family, and Nox and Nyx.

In two different locations, incredibly potent presences that even chilled the air manifested. If any others were in the hall, they would instill fear into all.

On one side of the hall, Nox’s eyes were blue-white and you could see the immense rage within. His aura and mana were fluctuating erratically. Although the others were also angry, they became shocked upon witnessing Nox’s instability. He had the signs of someone close to going berserk.

On the other side, Nyx’s eyes became an even deeper red, as dark strands of smoke were floating from different areas of her body. Her hands became claws as thin pitch-black scales grew on her hands and around her neck.

Near Nyx, Ilene and Mel became vigilant, while Sylvie stared intently at Nox and Nyx. She could clearly feel their emotions, especially the ones coming from Nox. His were very intense.

“Nyx! No mercy. Leave their leader to me. “ Nox voiced coldly, trying to keep control. Nyx would have been fine, but Sylvie was still weak. If hit by any of those daggers, she would have died immediately.

His soul was everything. It’s what led him and Ling to each other. What led him to Nyx. His core and what helped revive and strengthen Stella. Meeting today yet having such a powerful connection with Sylvie, it was because of that. He realized it and it was the reason he accepted these developments. Now, having assassin’s come at this moment, it was like he returned to 7,000 years ago. His soul was crying out for total destruction, but Nox knew he shouldn’t be rash right now.

Extending his right hand, Nox created a long spear of lightning. Grasping with his left, a bubble seemed to pop as multiple masked and fully black clothed bodies materialized, each releasing different pitched yells. Nox had somehow enclosed them inside a barrier of mana.

Pulling back his arm, Nox threw the spear forward with incredible force, heading straight for one of the black clothed people. From their figure, it appeared to be a woman. Followed by another grasping motion, the spear exploded when it arrived inches away from her.

Getting no chance to react, the woman only saw a bright flash of light, before she began screaming in agony.

‘Slowly turn to ashes' Nox’s chilling voice resounded in her ear.

As Nox’s lightning spear exploded right in front of her, a rain of lightning drilled into every part of her body but her heart and head. She felt as if a torrential rain of arrows pierced every inch of her, causing an endless amount of pain, while the lightning also seemed to prevent her from losing consciousness.

A few seconds later, her body was charred and slowly disappearing, before the lightning exploded once more, leaving only ashes behind.

In front of Nyx, black smoke poured out of her, matching her long pitch-black hair, as she locked onto a black clothed man.

Gazing at him with a smirk, Nyx allowed him to gain his balance and pull out a sword coated in the same poison as the daggers.

“HAAAH” he charged forward carried by a gust of wind with his sword covered in a sharp green mana, arriving in front of Nyx and trying to run her through.

Opening her left claw, the sword ran right into her scales as it shattered the metal and mana upon impact. Swifting pushing forwards and shattering the rest of the blade, Nyx gripped his sword wielding hand. Darkness beginning to spread from her claw onto his, the mans cloth, flesh and bone began corroding. Screaming in agony as his hand liquefied, Nyx pierced forwards into his chest using her right claw.

Still smirking, Nyx clenched her hand as the light from the man’s eyes began fading along with flowing blood pouring out of his mouth. Nyx crushed his heart.

In a swift movement, Nyx pulled out the claw which was covered in the man’s blood, causing him to drop to the ground with a loud thud. Lifting her arm, blood began gathering off her hand and pulled from what dripped from her hair, along with what flowed from the man’s body. A few moments later, a large blood claw that extended from her own, formed with a thick, threatening presence.

Locking her gaze onto another black clothed figure appearing to be a man, Nyx's red eyes shone eerily alongside that blood claw, as she swung her arm down.

Shocked by his comrades death and now the descending claw, the man swiftly lifted his arms, as a shield of water formed in the air above him, attempting to block Nyx’s attack. To no avail, the shield exploded in a rain upon making contact. Her blood claw completely unaffected, in came down on the man as in sliced him into multiple pieces.

Nodding at her work, a flash of lightning sped past her, as Nox appeared in front of a very scrawny looking man. Putting his hand forward without stopping, he grabbed the man’s head as a torrent of lightning exploded outwards upon contact, slamming him face first into the floor, using the momentum to drag him. Closely behind them appeared a semicircular trench due to the man’s body.

With a deep, guttural howl, the man was in severe pain.

After but a moment, another boom was heard, and a torrent of lightning exploded outwards, lighting up the entire hall while another howl was heard.

Taking a deep breath to calm himself, Nox loosened his grip. He didn’t want to kill him at the moment.

The lightning finally clearing, the floor was sunken in and had cracks spreading outwards like a spiderweb.

The man’s black mask was gone as the entire hall became silent. Already having a grasp of Nox and Nyx’s power, although a bit surprised at their methods, what remained is what truly shocked them, especially Nox and Nyx.

A charred and severely cracked skull with green flames in the eye sockets.

“An undead skeleton? “ Nox looked surprised. His hand was covering the skeletons face, so althought it felt weird, he didn't get a good look until now.

“… so, it’s true. “ Hayde muttered and looked at Valcor solemnly.

Nodding, Valcor looked back towards Nox to observe.

“Keh, keh, keh, keh, what a failure. Who knew we would run into someone able to sense and reveal us. Keh, keh, keh. “ the undead laughed eerily.

“So, you’re an undead. I guess that makes this easy. Enlighten me about your mission and Death’s Hand and be granted a painless death. Or refuse and be tortured until you pick the first option. “ Nox looked at the undead emotionlessly.

“A Lightning user, huh? What luck. Keh, I really wouldn’t mind, but that’s impossible.“ the undead looked at Nox. Undead were very vulnerable to lightning, and if used, the pain would be unimaginable. A pain that went directly to its soul. But, he wasn’t fearful.

“You’re soulbound? “ Nox suddenly asked.

Hearing Nox, the undead's flames flickered.

Observing his reaction, Nox made a swift decision and chopped down towards the undead, as an invisible energy released from Nox’s soul, heading directly to the undead’s. Slicing forward with unstoppable momentum, Nox’s energy arrived in front of the undead’s soul where black chains were dug into it. Contacting the chains, they snapped and instantly disintegrated.

—In a decrepit, unknown castle—

Seated on a black throne adorned with skulls, a lanky yet intimidating figure opened his pure white eyes in surprise.

“Who? “ a low, ghastly voice came from the figure.

“Interesting” the figure showed a frightening smile and once more closed its eyes.

—Ragnarr Estate, Main Hall—

“Unbelievable” the skeletons flames flickered.

“I destroyed it but know that you’ll still die. Tell me what I want to know, and I’ll make it swift. “ Nox coldly stared the undead in its unusual eyes of green flame.

“Keh, keh, keh, keh, I suppose dying by you is better. Very well. We came here for that woman known as Ilene. “ The undead turned his skeletal gaze towards Ilene, causing her to shirk back slightly. He couldn’t move the rest of his body due to Nox’s lightning.

“Besides her strength, I only know she’s valuable. We had used some kind of talisman the broker gave me. I had never seen anything like it. It concealed our bodies and presences, even allowing us to move through the walls like ghosts. Along with this being a very secure place, no one would have full vigilance but the guards, which is why we took the risk to infiltrate. As for Death’s Hand… it’s large. Unimaginably so. There are four divisions, each with their own specialties: Assassination, Mercenary, Bounty, and Trade.

The mercenaries are exactly what they sound like, but the jobs they take are unlike the Mercenary Guild’s. The mercenaries of the guild have regulations and don't accept siege requests or one’s that would involve killing innocence, but our mercenaries will accept anything and are always fighting in wars.

To leave Death’s Hand, your memory must be completely wiped back to any day before you joined. It’s a difficult task and everything might be wiped, therefore many defect and leave, becoming wanted in the process. Although you’re the first I know of that’s capable of breaking our oaths, others have garnered information from defectors using different methods, and that’s where Bounty Hunters play their part. They are effectively law enforcement that almost always kill. Most know what they are, but not what they hunt. Now Trade, it's as one would expect, dealing with any and all items, but typically stolen, contraband, cursed, unknown, ancient, and anything extremely high end.

As for assassination… Warlords, Dukes, Earls, Generals, Marshalls, Kings, or even the ordinary street peasant. Anything is negotiable, although the higher the status, significance or power, the higher the price. Up to the point it would be nigh impossible to hire us. Our policy is that anyone can be targeted and must have a price, which is why nigh impossible ones are listed for those that are too dangerous.

Assassins are also ranked. The same concept should apply to all other divisions, but I only know the details for mine. You start as a Trainee, and then we go by Daggers. The ones I know of, in order from lowest rank to highest: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Onyx, Earth, and finally, Sky. There are ranks after that, but I’m unsure of what they specifically are. It’s rumored that they are leaders or those with special status’.

You should see my rank marked on my shoulder. All Death’s Hand assassins are required to have their rank marked on them, so that’s how you can identify one. As the other divisions should have similar concepts, you could guess what division they’re from when you encounter them.

And the oath, all are required to take one. It is to prevent traitor's, as well as to know whether we live or die.“ the undead released an incredible amount of information, shocking everyone but Nox and Nyx. They had seen very similar situations on Tian.

“Oh, and for the girl. When a mission is failed, half the coin deposited is returned, and the request price increases. She shouldn’t get attacked again, at least for a while. That is all I know. Make it quick. “ the undead had a very calm aura as he rest his eyes on Nox

Observing him, Nox noticed a platinum dagger engraved on his shoulder, and he could somehow sense the resolve in his fire filled eyes.

“Your information will be a great help. Know that there is, in fact, a next life. It does not end here. You were sentenced to die the moment you attacked, but maybe things will be different if we ever meet once more! “ Nox nodded solemnly as he conjured a regular semi-translucent sword, swinging it downwards and cleaving the skeleton in two.

“Keh…poss…ibly... “ the skeleton laughed faintly as the green flames in his eyes slowly faded away.

“What an unusual undead.“ Nox muttered to himself.

That skeleton took the entire situation in stride. Nox threatened to torture him if he refused, but all assassins could kill themselves with their own energy or methods. You could argue he thought Nox had the ability to truly subdue him and prevent it, but Nox thought otherwise. Knowing he could prevent him or not, the skeleton still would’ve spoken when having the ability, which is what happened when he broke the oath for him. For an undead to think that way… Nox wondered if many of them were like that in this world.

He hated assassin’s, but this one had a demeanor worthy of a few parting words.

Turning around and looking towards Valcor, Nox appeared awkward as Nyx came over next to him “Sorry, we might have been too brutal in your home.“

Nox injured many earlier, but he didn’t kill anyone. Now, he killed with Nyx, and the first three weren’t exactly ‘clean'.

“Hahaha, Nox, don’t worry, this is also your home now! To dare attempt such a thing; if you and Nyx didn’t do it, I would have. Regardless, it’s good that you’re here… if not, the consequences would have been dire. “ Valcor laughed but became solemn. His guard was down because this was in the middle of a main city and so many figures were here, especially General Hayde. He only noticed the assassins after Nox revealed them.

Witnessing the aftermath, Sylvie gazed at Nox with passion in her eyes. Running up to Nox and wrapping her arms around him, Sylvie’s face was lightly flushed “Dad is right. Our home is also yours now. And Nyx and Stella’s. No matter how you two killed those assassins, I don’t care. All I see is that you protected us. “

‘Stella?’ Valcor’s mood was interrupted, but very quickly understood when Ashuen informed him mentally. Nox didn’t mention her name, but Sylvie had just given it away.

‘I see.’ Valcor felt moved when he observed Nox. Tragic as it may be, it showed much about him.

“We can all agree on this! “ Ashuen glanced at Glenn and Avera, also speaking up.

‘Our… home?’ Nox muttered, putting an arm around Sylvie and moving his gaze around the hall while reminiscing.

After the incident, he only stopped for short periods until the planned breakthrough, where he stayed in a small, empty, single room wooden house for a few hundred years alongside sword form Nyx. But, could that even be called ‘home’?

‘Stella… If Nyx is so clear, you and Elise must have also been anticipating these matters... which means you were fine with this? I suppose now you’ll have a place to stay at whenever you like... ’ Nox thought and faintly smiled when he took all this in.

“Alright then” Nox gave Sylvie a gentle look, before moving his gaze away from her and towards the main hall doors.

“Haha, you two sure have been busy. “ a hoarse voice came from outside, interrupting the atmosphere, as a side entrance was opened.

“Only here for half a day and all this happens! “

Walking inside was a small, white haired old man. It was Locke.

‘Hmm, as I thought, similar to Lady Elise. For such a powerful being, of course he and Sylvie would progress quickly.’ Locke nodded when his gaze landed on Nox and Sylvie.

“It can’t be helped, trouble seems to follow me. “ Nox looked at Locke helplessly. What a day this was.

“Ha, in more ways than one. “ Locke chuckled, glancing at Sylvie.

When Sylvie saw this, she blushed, backing away from Nox “Grandpa! “

“You have a point. “ Nox agreed, already imagining the cliché idiots that would make advances towards her and Nyx. Men and women each had their struggles.

“Fret not, master, I’ll teach Sylvie a few techniques to get rid of pests. “ Nyx giggled as she grabbed Sylvie.

“Don’t even think about it! Your ‘techniques’ will only cause me more trouble. Just leave it to me and forget about it.” Nox replied without hesitation. Seeing how Nyx has been, her ‘techniques’ would all probably result in death.

“When did you become so mean, master?” Nyx pouted, feigning sadness.

*sigh*

Nox sighed, shaking his head.

Ignoring their antics, Locke greeted Glenn, Avera, Mel and Ilene, before approaching Valcor, Ashuen, and Hayde “Hayde, it has been many years.”

“Indeed, it has, Lord Locke, it’s good to see you again.” Hayde shook Locke’s hand amicably.

“Valcor, Ashuen” Locke smiled towards Valcor and Ashuen. Ashuen had come by them moments before Locke arrived.

“You’re finally here, Locke, that’s good. I don’t know if you heard, but our Sylvie and Nox are engaged now.” Valcor spoke.

“Good, good. I had an inkling that this would happen.” Locke nodded repeatedly with a smile, before he turned to look towards Nox who began walking up to them.

“Locke, Hayde, Valcor… ugh… mother, sorry for interrupting you four, but I’ve been really curious about a certain matter.” Nox asked, looking puzzled.

“There is no need for such words, Nox. Ask what you will.” Locke warmly smiled.

“Alright. Is there some kind of reason behind no others being here? The family can’t be this small, right? “ Nox found it all quite unusual after Locke appeared, because it was clear that he would be the last to arrive today.

“Oh, that? My family, the Visents, exiled me for marrying Valcor, therefore we no longer have any contact. As for Valcor, he willingly cut ties with the Ragnarr clan, and an agreement was made with the Capital, banning any of them from entering this city.” Ashuen said candidly.

‘So that’s it. Seems to be a complex situation.’ Nox thought in understanding, not wanting to pry further.

“Glenn and Avera’s children are out adventuring, while Avera’s husband, Jaks, is currently heading a mission in northern Tartarus, and Glenn’s wife, Maren, is negotiating a trade deal with one of our northern cities.

Actually, although 100 years of age is a milestone, it isn’t that large of an event. It was Sylvie’s awakening that made this day very important. As she was far past normal awakening age, she only felt it arriving a few weeks ago, so there wasn’t enough time to gather everyone. Valcor and I were lucky enough not to be on any missions or campaigns, which freed Glenn and Avera as well. “ Ashuen continued.

‘Right, Tartarus is this continent… wait, isn’t the Undead country, Nethox, there? I wonder if there’s a conflict. And Sylvie’s awakening… I should ask what her affinities are after this.’ Nox pondered.

“I see, that makes sense, thanks. “ Nox expressed, having his curiosity sated. It was unusual with such a big estate having only five family members. Even with his long years, this situation was fairly rare.

“No need for that! “ Ashuen smiled.

“Right, Nox, the information you managed to obtain from that undead… how unbelievable. This is the most significant amount we’ve ever gained about them. A lot of what we thought, was previously conjecture, yet now it’s been proven, and then some! It will be a tremendous help. “ Ashuen said excitedly. Oath's were nearly inviolable, so information was hard to acquire.

“Right, it is very significant. “ Hayde, who was being quiet, nodded solemnly on the side. That was what he’d been thinking of during this time. Next to him, Valcor nodded in agreement as they glanced at each other.

‘Ashuen, what were the specifics?’ Locke sent to Ashuen. He was well versed in Fate, but not omniscient. When he arrived, he missed the conversation Nox had with the undead.

Learning the story from Ashuen, Locke advised solemnly ‘Significant indeed. Report these findings to your superiors, but you must speak to no one about Nox breaking the undead’s oath. The others must also be informed. That ability must stay absolutely confidential.’

‘Of course.’ Ashuen responded in kind.

“That’s good, then.” Nox knew what the undead spoke of wasn’t anything to be underestimated.

“Everyone, I believe I should take my leave, as I have some matters to attend to.” Hayde voiced loudly after a moment.

“I understand. Thank you for attending, old friend.” Valcor pat Hayde on the shoulder.

‘Report these findings to command. I hope you can leave out the information about Nox breaking the undead’s oath.’ Valcor sent simultaneously.

‘I know this, don’t worry. We’ll convene at a later date.’ Hayde replied seriously.

“Nox, it was a pleasure to meet you and Nyx. If you ever find yourselves in Benir, my home will be open for you.” Hayde walked up to Nox and firmly shook his hand.

“Thank you. If we have the time, we’ll be sure to visit.” Nox replied amicably, also thinking that the city naming scheme the Demons use seem to always end in ‘ir’. Razzir, which was the Demon country and shared the same name with the Capital, while Grenir was the city they were currently in.

“Sylvie, it’s late and we didn’t get to speak to each other, but congratulations on your awakening and engagement. Your future looks very promising.” Hayde smiled warmly and gave her a hug. He hadn’t visited often, but he watched as Sylvie slowly grew up, treating her like a niece.

“Thank you Uncle Hayde, it was good to see you. Tell aunt Jill I said hello.” Sylvie quietly said.

“Hahaha, I will.” Hayde chuckled, before saying his farewells to Locke, Ashuen and the others.

Seeing Hayde walking through the main doors and the guards closing it behind them, Locke suddenly asked with a glimmer in his eyes “Nox, Nyx, I wonder, are you two curious about your affinities?”

“Oh, yes! Nox, didn’t you say earlier that you didn't know?” Ashuen looked at them.

“You two don’t know your affinities?” Sylvie gazed at them oddly, wondering how that was even possible.

On the side letting everything play out, Mel and Ilene were thinking the same exact thing.

“That’s right, both of us don’t know our affinities. Actually, I don’t even know my elements. I’ve only used lightning and conjuration because it came easier to me, so I would definitely like to know, if possible.” Nox nodded. He didn’t know about conjuration, but figured that lightning came naturally because of the numerous lightning tribulations he went through on Tian.

These lightning tribulations were increasingly powerful lightning strikes that enhanced your body and allowed you to increase your power even further; if you managed to survive, that is.

'Your elements as well? What!?' Everyone but Locke were inwardly shocked this time. Everyone should know their Elements after they awaken.

“I too, am curious as to what master’s affinities are. No doubt it will be magnificent.” Nyx didn’t even care about hers.

“Haha, alright. Mel, go prepare the Affinity Orb, Nox, Nyx, and Sylvie will be using it. When we're finished, we'll send some people to fix the hall. Such a mess hahaha. ” Locke laughed merrily. Seems that he was enjoying this.

“At once, Lord Locke.” Mel bowed and immediately left.

“Grandpa Locke, there’s no need for that, I already found out today.” Sylvie voiced in puzzlement, while the others also felt the same.

“Just do as I say, there’s no harm in measuring it again.” Locke voiced mysteriously.

Observing Locke, Nox wondered what he was planning.