When Eros and Eris landed outside, they both looked back, but not a trace of the endless fog could be seen. They found themselves at a top of a mountain. Sparse trees, and dried grass welcomed their sight. When they looked up, both sighed in relief for the skies seemed calm, closely resembling that of the kingdom.

Knowing the area is relatively safe, Eros quickly attended to Eris. He hurriedly observed her vitals to ensure her safety. Shockingly, his own body was uninjured. His life force was brimming as if nothing happened, and his energy was stronger than ever.

To add to his surprise, Eris’ life force is somehow low, but visible to the eye, it was being replenished as if the lands does not dare let Eris die.

Even though Eros knew almost nothing of how Eris could recover, he didn’t ask. He himself was puzzled of his own body being fine despite suffering for a long period of time - a span in which they are clueless.

Now certain that death is the least of the concern, Eros glanced around. Now more mature and vigilant, he didn’t wait for danger to arrive. With a wave of a hand, two souls came to them and touched their skin. In no time, they seem to slowly merge with it, and soon, Eros’ and Eris’ appearance was gone. What replaced them were a male and female of different guise.

The female quickly raised her hand and checked it thoroughly; astonishment flashing in her eyes. “Eros, you already mastered the soul magic to such extent that you could use this disguise magic?”

“I too am surprised.” Eros replied, in the skin of another existence, “In that land of endless fog, I did not nothing but study souls and our surroundings. I never expected that it could tremendously increase my understanding of soul magic.” Then he paused, and stared at his own palms, seemingly thinking of something worrisome.

He did not add any more word to what he has said, but Eris could tell something inside Eros changed. He felt stronger even though he never advanced a level.

“The third curse.” Eros thought, peering deep inside his soul, “It’s slightly opened.

Now that the third curse is also breached, Eros can clearly feel that it is a curse related to the souls. Even though his desire for strength was far greater than anything, he still felt fear once every curse open. It only means Lord Orcus might somehow awaken.

Ignoring the possible danger of the curses, Eros didn’t delay and called upon more souls. It was an odd sight. Souls howled and rushed towards Eros as he commands, “Come forth.”

When around thirty souls gathered, he ordered, “Spread out and scout. Ensure our path is clear towards a safer land.”

The souls howled in response as if willing to do anything just to complete the task, then in a blink of an eye they all dispersed appearing in a distance. Eris who was silently observing seemed shaken. Beyond her expectation, Eros’ control over the soul likely reached the same as Firo or even higher.

Eros’ eyes didn’t resemble the sokai’s, but still, as he used soul magic it gleamed with specs of light like the sky dotted by the starlight. It appears that each one of those represents souls who he controls.

“Let’s proceed.” He said to Eris, guiding her in the safest route the souls scouted. From Eros’ every step, even his miniscule movement, it was now very clear that he was extremely protective of Eris. It was as if her life was more important than his.

Eris noticed the change in treatment, yet she did not say a word. Instead, a slight smile appeared in her face.

Both knew nothing of the path ahead. All they could do was rely on the soul magic now Eros possess. What they fear the most was to find out that they are in another land with far more threatening existence. Finding a safe village to know of their whereabouts was their priority.

Time passed, and they met no one. Both were feeling worried of the possibility of still being in an unknown space. However, before their worry even grew, Eros’ face flickered. “Wizards.” He said. “A lot of them.”

Eris raised her guard and asked, “Are they sokai’s?”

“No.” Eros answered, face more focused than ever, “From the images the souls are relaying, they don’t seem to be a sokai nor an elf. They have hair as red as flames, some of them even have their hair burning. Even their skin appears to be reddish almost as if they would erupt with flames at any moment. Their pupils are also red, and as for their build, they are taller by a normal human by a head.”

Eris didn’t even need time to think, as she concluded, “Rhaks!”

“Rhaks?” Eros asked. Even with his vast knowledge, he doesn’t seem to know of the name of the race.

“Eh?” Eris quizzically said, “You reached the top of the Hall of Knowledge without knowing them?”

Eros smiled wryly and justified his ignorance, “All the questions in the Hall of Knowledge is about magic, not about random unknown race.”

Eris chuckled and didn’t tease Eros more, “Flaming hair, red eyes and skin; they’re definitely Rhaks. You already heard about them before we enter the territory of the Sokai’s.”

Eros thought deeply yet nothing came to mind, so Eris smiled which made Eros feel daft. Seemingly all-knowing, Eris began explaining, “Rhak is a name of a race who are endowed with body largely linked to flames. They don't control elemental spirit, instead, they produce their own flames. Flames which are as fierce as flames of elemental spirits. Most say elemental spirit flames are superior, yet none have seen the Rhaks lose to an elemental spirit flames. Their clan is small and rare. Even rumors says that the Rhaks near the kingdom are the last of their kind."

After hearing a bit of information, Eros interjected in a low tone, "With all that, I'm certein I haven't heard of them."

Not listening to Eros' grumbling, Eris continued, "Because their leader has gained the trust of the ruler, they were allowed to occupy a territory of their own outside of the Kingdom of Sheles. That leader is named Hearthenfire!"

Eros blinked as he suddenly remembered the familiar name, "So we are actually able to come back! And not even that far from the Sokais!" Eros exclaimed, feeling more anxioys than ever. "We need to distance ourselves from this place. The Sokai's might find us with their magic."

Eris nodded, face serious. With the Rhaks present, she knew well how close they are to the Sokais. Slowly, both of them tried to avoid the large group of Rhaks, however, to their shock, the Rhaks sped to their direction! Their speed was those of someone rushing to a prey."

"They found us!" Eros exclaimed, shocked. "Run!"

Then he grabbed Eris' hands to fly. Without restrain, they burst into motion. Unfortunately, the Rhaks after them were extremely agile. Also, far in front of the direction they are fleeing, Rhaks seemed to be present!

"We're surrounded!" Eros said, anxiety written all over his face.

His grip on Eris' hands tightened and his energy obviously directed at protecting her.

Eris knew that the way Eros was acting, it would be very possible for him to sacrifice himself for her safety, so with determination she also overflowed with decisiveness to fight and kill to survive!

In no time, three Rhaks appeared in front of them. Their clothes were plain, but that didn’t make them seem less domineering. Just their flaming hair whipping about in the air can cause anyone to feel fear. Coupled with their naturally tall and muscular build, their presence itself was greater than a wild beast. Even the expression on their faces were like wolves; extremely savage and ravenous.

Seeing this, Eros was tinged with fear. Even Eris took a step back from the pressure the three were emitting. Gritting, his teeth, Eros was ready to fight it out, however, all of a sudden, a figure came flying like a meteor. When he landed, the ground below his feet, cracked and melted, as if it was turned into lava in an instant.

The Rhak exuded pressure greater than the three. His hair was also in flames, and his whole body was red from heat. His face was slightly wrinkled, but it didn’t lessen the ferociousness he emits.

As soon as he landed, he began to straighten his stance, then took a step forward forcing Eros and Eris another step back. However, opposed to the sudden attack Eros was expecting, the flames on his hair began to fade, and his wild features slowly lessened. He began to resemble a normal man, with seemingly natural elegance.

“Elves…” The man said, staring deeply and Eros’ and Eris’ face.

From how the Rhak was measuring them in every aspect, Eros instantly knew of his suspicion, so he said, “Sir… We are elves from the Kingdom of Sheles.. We were tasked on a mission by Ronsorth.”

The Rhak’s expression didn’t change and kept staring at Eros deeply. No word came from him for a few breaths which made Eros tense. Especially, when the three Rhaks behind started to seem more ferocious as every breath passed by. Fortunately, after some time, the Rhak said, “They are suspicious, but I am unsure of their purpose. Let us have master decide.”

As soon, as the Rhak’s words ended, the three Rhaks behind started to calm down. The flames in their hair slowly disappeared and their overly wild appearance began to become as elegant as the Rhak in front.

“I am Flerodome, a Rhak under the order of master Hearthenfire.” The man politely said, and asked, “May I know your names.”

Startled, by the sudden change of scenario, Eros blurted a false name without thinking, “My name is Orcus…”

Hearing Eros lie, Eris also stepped forward and courteously introduced herself, “I am known by the name Suadela.”

The man again stared at them deeply, ascertaining the truth of their words, but he seemed to be unable to mine even the slightest clue of both Eros’ and Eris’ lies.

As far as Eros knew, even Saevel wasn’t able to read his heart. So if it wasn’t someone of higher abilities, he was confident his their lie would never be seen through.

“Follow me.” Flerodome said, then he floated and began to fly.

As response, Eros nodded to Eris, and they began to follow Flerodome. Unusual action would only put them closer at death’s door, so they buried all the desire to flee from these four terrifying creatures.

After some time of flying, they landed at an area filled with more Rhaks. They seemed to be at the midst of travel. Each one of them felt elegant, yet Eros could not take that elegance to hearth after seeing the wild nature of these Rhaks.

At the very center of the group, a very finely designed fiery red palanquin could be seen. Woods carved in likeness of flames covered its edges, and four extremely muscular Rhaks were carrying it at four sides.

Everyone's focus became centered at the two. Eros could easily tell that these Rhaks are extremely cautious. it was as if anyone not from their race would be subject to suspicion and intimidating gaze.

"Why did you bring them here?" A very intimidating Rhak said. Each of his words were like daggers brushing through their face.

Fortunately, Flerodome stepped forward and stood in front of them before answering, “Brother Hilador, I brought them here for two reasons. First is in hopes to get more information about the state of the war in the Kingdom of Sheles itself.”

Upon hearing this, Eros and Eris, sighed. If it is about the war, they can easily lie to keep their lives, however, before they could think up of any made up stories, Flerodome continued, his words still calm yet it felt murderous. “As for the second reason, if they happen to be enemies of the Kingdom of Sheles, then we can interrogate them.” Flredome then slightly shifted his gaze at Eros and Eris, and with a smile that caused shiver on Eros’ spine, he said, “They can prove to be useful.”

Unlike Flerodome, Hilador seems to have an explosive temper, “To have master communicate taxes him greatly, do you think this is worth his energy?”

“All the elves we met so far are all enemies, and none of them dared to be captured. Information is very vital.” Flerodome retorted.

Hearing Flerodome’s unyielding words, Hilador coldly snorted and turned to leave, yet he still voiced out some disagreement, “I do not approve disturbing our master for mere wizards, you are on your own.”

Everyone around also seem to have different opinions, yet none voice out their thoughts. Eros understood that these two holds the highest authority in the group and might be similar to Elders in the Tribe of Sokais.

Flerodome didn’t delay, as soon as Hilador turned to leave, he nodded, and led Eros and Eris towards the eye-catching palanquin. As they drew closer, the palanquin appeared to be more awe inspiring. Something about it feels dangerous and attractive at the same time, so at ten steps away, Eros suddenly held Eris arm, and stopped his tracks after sensing something extremely dangerous if they take a step closer.

Flerodome looked at Eros deeply. At first, he could not read any of Eros’ and Eris’ thoughts, nor he could predict whatever they were planning, so he decided to bring them. Now, to verify if Eros truly is somehow special, he led them towards the palanquin, to see how they would react.

“Sir Flerodome.” Eros said, “I appreciate your kindness, but we cannot take another step forward. I believe our lives would be in peril if we do.”

Flerodome smiled and asked, “And why is that?”

“I do not want to be rude, but I know you are aware that a spell is setup just in front of me.”

Just hearing that Eros knew of the spell made Flerodome’s face flicker. It was something created by his master, and not even himself would be able to see through it, yet Eros did it by just a glance. “Truly you are extraordinary. I hope you are not an enemy.”

After his words, another voice echoed out. It was from inside the palanquin. A voice weak yet lordly. “Interesting. Never could I imagined that I would meet a very young wizard able to see through my spell.”

Suddenly, a flame snaked out of a small opening in the palanquin. The flame formed into a ball and slowly took shape forming a small image of a Rhak.

As soon as the image formed, Flerodome bowed deeply and said, “Master, I deeply apologize for disturbing your rest, but as you can see, these two might be of use.”

“They are indeed extraordinary.” The flame said, as it flew closer towards Eros and Eris. “Not only they are able to see through my spell, they also tricked you without you knowing.”

Flerodome frowned, he had no idea how he was tricked. From his point of view, everything that has happened was within his calculation and control. However, the next statement of the small flame enlightened him on how he was somehow played, “A human disguised as an elf. Even using the magic of a sokai to such degree.”

Hearing those words made Eros also frown, and worried.

And this female…” the flame circled around, leaving rings of flames around Eris, “Very peculiar. I cannot tell what you are.”

The small flame appeared to be deep in thought and in the end, he ordered, “Everyone leave, and do not come back without my word. I have things to discuss to our visitors. Only Flerodome can stay.”

Even his voice was weak, it quickly stirred everyone into motion. Even Hilador who was afar hurriedly guided everyone away as ordered. The four who was carrying the palanquin also left without a word. However, amazingly, the palanquin remained in the air floating.

As soon as everyone left, the flame then said, “State your name and reason for being in my territory.”

Eros knew that the reason everyone was led away was for them to feel more at ease. They were using disguises, so even a child would know they are very cautious and being chased.

From Flerondome’s and Hilador’s argument, he could tell that if they don’t prove to be useful they will go straight to the death’s door. Unfortunately, they knew nothing of the war. Also, there was no way to prove they were allies.

Now that he saw how powerful a single order from this Rhak was, it was apparent to him that if his next words do not satisfy their needs, their lives would be forfeit. So, without hesitation, Eros said, “Lord Hearthenfire, I, Eros Libera am not your enemy, for I am from Ronsorth. I may not be able to tell you the progress of the war and prove my identity, yet I have a more valuable offer.”

The flame somehow had a change in reaction after hearing Eros’ words, then he laughed lightly, “So you know of my name, Eros Libera… I have also heard of your name and deeds. I will be honest, I cannot tell if your words carry lies or truth, but I will hear them to decide on your fate.”

Eros’ eyes gleamed with determination as he said, “Poison.. That poison, I cannot cure with my current strength, yet I can suppress it to the point that your body might be able to fight it. If you fail, it can still lengthen your life.

The flame suddenly shook, its expression was very shocked. Even Flerodome who was still bowing, became so startled that he straightened his body and stared straight at Eros to ensure he heard everything correctly.

“You.. you can cure master’s condition?” Flerodome asked, obviously excited.

“Flerodome!” Hearthenfire said, his voice indicating him to not speak his next words.

Flerodome again bowed in obedience and didn’t say a word. He was truly shocked to hear Eros’ statement, especially when he heard that his master could be cured.

“How did you know of my condition?” Hearthenfire was very intrigued, and at the same time suspicious.

“You have said that you have heard of my name and deeds. I suppose you also know that I reached the top of Hall of Knowledge. With this, I can humbly say that my knowledge is enough to see through your spell and the poison plaguing you.”

“Eros Libera.. If you truly are that boy… you are indeed worthy of your reputation; very decisive and cunning.” Hearthenfire praised, then he added, “Several months, Saevel came to my territory to ask for clues about your whereabouts, but I was not able to provide any. Since Saevel does have good impression of you then I will give my trust.” Hearthenfire then asked, “What do you seek in return?”

“As I said, I could not promise your full recovery. It will still depend on you. So, my request would also be simple. Guide us safely to the ruler of the Kingdom of Sheles, and pledge that you will fulfill one of my future request, no matter how absurd it is.”

Hearthenfire laughed loud, even weakened. He was clearly amused. Without a word, he did a grabbing motion, causing a scroll to fly out from the palanquin. After which, he created a contract and passed it to Eros.

Eros also quickly did his pledge. Just like any other contract he did so far. His life was always the guarantee. His face didn’t even flinch as if he was accustomed to the risk.

On the side, Flerodome seems to have his worries. Agreeing to a single request whatever it is isn’t something simple. If Eros requested for Hearthenfire to annihilate his clan, he would do so or else he would die. However, Hearthenfire seem to be not even fazed by it, his smile remained plastered on his face.

Even though Flerodome was filled with anxiety, there was no better way. Hearthenfire would soon lose his life if they did nothing along the way. Their original plan was to visit the Ruler and seek his help, yet it seems traveling towards the Kingdom of Sheles became a dangerous task. The war became unpredictable and enemies might attack them without a moment’s notice, especially when his master is at a very dire condition.

Eris on the other hand was also slightly worried about Eros, but she knew that Eros have matured and wasn’t anymore rash. So, she decided to support Eros’ decision and not voice out any opposition.

When the contract ended, the scroll turned to dust and a string appeared seemingly connecting Eros’ and Hearthenfire’s hearth. Without delay, Eros pulled out a ruby. After he did, Hearthenfire’s eyes glittered, and Flerodome’s eyes widened. Shock was clear in both their expression, coupled with great excitement.

“Bloodflame Ruby!” Both said, eyes fixated on the item which was glittering like countless flame contained within it.

Now that Flerodome have seen the Bloodflame Ruby, he understood why Eros’ demand is very high. Everyone knows the value of such item. The Rhaks were masters of flame, so naturally, they strongly covet the ruby more than the elves. In fact, last time the gem appeared, Hearthenfire was one of those who bid for it, yet even though the amount he offered wasn’t inferior to the elves, he knew well that he would be the last to be considered. Rhaks and Elves were very close allies, but the elves would never allow the Rhaks to produce someone stronger than them. Being on top was still their priority.

“So you intend to use the Bloodflame Ruby to forcefully stir my dying flames, but I am certain it won’t be enough to suppress the poison.” Hearthenflame said.

Eros didn’t answer to Hearthenflame’s words, instead, he closed his eyes, and began chanting spells. As he did, each spell seemed to make Hearthenflame’s flame image to thump. It was as if it would dissipate at any moment.

The Bloodflame Ruby also began to glow and float. In no time, blood red sparks appeared around it. The grass below their feet instantly turned to dust, and the trees around started to dry.

Flerodome was also startled, and the danger of the situation led him to fly back several steps away. Even though he was highly resistant to flames, the flames of the Bloodflame felt as if it could burn him to ashes.

“Bloodflame Ruby only burns in an instant, yet that flame could burn anything on its path. However, if that flame is absorbed in a body, it can give one a chance to break through barriers of nature and increase one potential.” Hearthenfire said, while his flame image turned blurry as Eros continued the chant spells.

The heat in the area rose rapidly, flames began to erupt everywhere around the area, and the space began to distort due to extreme heat coming from the ruby, yet none of this fazed Eros. He was still extremely focused.

Soon, Eros’ eyes snapped open. A very strong wave of heat buffeted both Eris and Flerodome causing them to be thrown like leaves carried by a strong wind. Similarly, the tiny flame image of Hearthenflame was reduced to nothing, yet a mysterious glow appeared on Eros’ eyes.

Along with these events, the Bloodflame Ruby suddenly ignited with a blood red flame. It was a small flame, but everyone knew that if they dare to approach it, they would be reduced to nothingness.

Eros slowly moved his hands as if guiding it towards the palanquin. As response, the Bloodflame ruby flew towards it and entered a small opening. Shockingly, the palanquin remained undamaged. It just proved that it wasn’t any ordinary litter.

Wild red blood flame suddenly erupted from the palanquin a breath after the Bloodflame ruby entered it. Flerodome was extremely worried, yet he couldn’t approach such flames.

“Eros! What’s happening!?” He shouted.

However, even how strong he bawled, Eros didn’t cast him a glance. Eros was extremely focused that he even held his breath.

BOOM!

The flame from inside the palanquin suddenly exploded into a whirlwind of flame. Everything around was reduced to ashes; both threes and rocks. Flerodome and Eris were thrown farther away by a force they couldn’t dispel.

Unlike them, Eros’s feet remained nailed to the ground, and when the flames were at its peak, he suddenly said, “Now!”

Then with a quick gesture, the flame tornado became as thin as a rope, and rapidly shrunk down towards the palanquin as if being absorbed. Eros’ eyes glowed with determination, and his hands seemed as if he was gripping something out of the air, yet Eris and Flerodome could see nothing.

Even though that was the case for the two, Eros could clearly see what he was trying to grip. It was the poison inside of Hearthenfire’s body. Now that all the flame of Hearthenflire has been ignited by the Bloodflame ruby, the poison seemed to have been suppressed to some degree, but it wasn’t enough to eliminate it completely.

With a roar, Eros used his curse of elements and curse of souls at the same moment. If it wasn’t for the fact that he has seen the same type of curse before, he would not be very confident. Eris might not have noticed it, but Eros knew well that the poison on Hearthenfire’s body is very similar to the poison endangering the life of the Sokai’s Tribe Chief. An elemental poison merged to one’s soul!

Back then he could not cure Firo’s father since he lacks knowledge about souls. He was able to somehow lessen his suffering, but that was the limit of his abilities. However, mastering the soul magic, it was now different.

If it was any other wizard, they could never cure the poison even with the Bloodflame ruby, but Eros was special, he both have incredible control of souls and elements! Added the fact that he wasn’t within the limits of what nature offers!

Along with Eros’ roar, a loud roar echoed inside the palanquin. Hearthenfire’s true body was obviously awakened from slumber. Eros was certain that he was now fighting to suppress the poison inside him.

An odd cracking sound echoed out, as Eros tightened his grip. And with all his might, his hands exploded with flames as violent as Hearthenfire’s. Then, in quick succession, he rapidly pulled his hands back!

With that quick pulling motion, a small broken soul covered in flames flashed towards Eros’ hands from the palanquin. It was shrieking akin to an animal about to meet its end.

As soon as it touched Eros’ palms, Eros suddenly closed his grip where the broken soul cracked and shattered.

The flame on the palanquin also slowly dissipated, and a weak groan could be heard.

“Master!” Flerodome hurriedly flew towards the palanquin. His expression mixed with worry an anticipation.

Before he could even touch the palanquin, the door slowly opened, and a weak voice said, “Worry not. I am fine.”

Propping himself from the palanquin, a man with very long red hair came out. His hair reached all the way to his knees. Along with his fiery red hair, his brows, mustache and beard were of the same hue. However, this wasn’t the most eye catching. It was his pupils; deep red in color. A glance from him made Eros feel as if his body was burning.

Seeing his master, Flerodome rushed towards Hearthenfire filled with smiles. Quickly, he bowed respectfully towards Eros and expressed his gratitude.

“There is still a small portion of the poison left, but you did what you promised. My body will be able to get rid of an incomplete poison.” Hearthenfire said, voice still weak. “As promised, we shall guide you towards the Kingdom of Sheles.”

“Master.” Flerodome interrupted, “You need to recover. Let me guide them to the Kingdom. I will protect them with my life. There is no need for you to come.”

“He kept his words, so will I.” Hearthenfire smiled, and continued, “I may be weakened, but with my orders, each one of the Rhaks I rule will be at your aid.”

He then took a deep breath, and said, “Everyone come!” His voice was low and weak, yet it seem to reverberate to everyone heads. Including, Eros and Eris!