Numerous Rhaks came rushing towards Hearthenfire. His voice was like a spell that stirred every Rhak into motion. Even Hilador with his explosive temper came rushing like a tamed eagle.

In no time, all the Rhaks that dispersed upon the order of Hearthenfire was now all gathered without missing one. This level of authority was beyond ordinary.

Eros knew that Hearthenfire did this small display of command to show that the Bloodflame ruby he used wasn’t wasted. Clearly, Hearthenfire seem to have high regard to Eros’ ability.

Now that everyone can see how Hearthenfire’s condition tremendously improved, their morale seemed to have doubled. Each one of them was now especially awed by Eros and Eris. Of course, they all knew that the only possibility of their leader walking on twos is by the help of these two.

Hilador seemed to be especially shocked. His previous domineering air have dispersed in face of Eros and Eris. “You.. you have cured master!”

Almost as soon as those words came out of his lips, he knelt in one knee to show his gratitude. Then without hesitation, everyone followed. From the respect, it was evident how important Hearthenfire is to all the Rhaks present.

With Eros’ valuable contribution, the two were regarded no less than Hilador and Flerodome. Five very strong Rhaks were tasked to protect them, led by non-other than Flerodome himself. Indeed, Hearthenfire kept his words. Especially instructing Eros and Eris to not stray away from his palanquin made it seem that he was doing more of what was expected of him.

With everything set, their journey continued. They progressed very slow. In fact, their pace was akin to one taking a garden stroll. However, Eros was aware that it was necessary because of the dangers of the war. From his knowledge, he knew that it would take no less than five days to reach the Kingdom.

Fortunately, the first day ended without encountering any enemy, but this didn’t allay their vigilance. They continued the second day with the same pace. However, this time, it didn’t end without blood being shed.

Flames surged at the very front of the group. Clearly, a fight was being fought by the Rhaks. This made Eros frown, and glance towards Flerodome on his side. “They seem strong.”

As opposed to Eros, Flerodome’s expression remain tranquil. “Do not worry. Hilador can handle that much.” He said.

Eros nodded, and ordered souls to observe the fight. As time passed, his frown was replaced with awe. Indeed, the Rhaks were strong. Their muscular build whenever they transform wasn’t just for show. Every punch can severely injure an enemy. Coupled with flames that surge from every part of their body, it becomes deadly. Their enemy were elves. Each one was no foreigner to flames, but unexpectedly they were suffering burns. Eros now understood that Rhak’s flames are really no weaker than elemental spirit flames.

As what Flerodome said, the fight quickly ended. The attackers fled using varying forms of magic, and what was left were three corpses laying beneath some injured Rhaks.

Eros sighed, he has faced many battles since he stepped foot in Eunos, but this was the first time he saw a fight that involves several grand wizards and many wizards. Indeed, the power showed was less than what he saw at the House of Marx, yet it was more brutal than the time they investigated at the Ruins of Kivel. It was an eye opener for him. A moment he really felt that a massive war was underway.

“Do not worry, we will not let anyone harm you.” Flerodome said filled with confidence.

Contrary to his words, Hearthenfire’s voice sounded from within the palanquin, “Be wary. They are just getting a feel of our capabilities. I expect that they know that I have somehow recovered, so they might send someone stronger.”

“I understand.” Flerodome replied with respect, then he whispered some words seemingly transmitting a message.

Seeing that the Rhaks were strong, and Hearthenfire seem to be always heavily guarded, Eros curiously asked, “How was it possible for your master to be poisoned?”

Flerodome’s calm expression suddenly became unsightly. It was as if he recalled something disgusting. A memory that he would loathe eternally.

Eros was startled from such reaction. To maintain good relationship, he tried to change the question, “So.. do you know who is behind this..”

However, before he could finish his question, Hearthenfire said, “I was plotted upon by my own student. A student I treated as my kin.”

Eros felt the sadness in Hearthenfire’s voice. He knew that it wasn’t a matter that an outsider could probe on, so he simply nodded and then kept silent. But, somehow, Hearthenfire didn’t stop. His voice continued on, “This war isn’t simple. Everywhere is the same. I received news that other groups that resides within the lands of the Kingdom of Sheles suffered the same fate. Most of their trusted companions suddenly turned traitor. Most of them still unaware on who to trust. I am certain that this war was planned for many years…” He then paused as if reminiscing something before saying, “Maybe a hundred years, or more.”

Eros gaped upon hearing the length of time which Hearthenfire concluded. For someone who have lived for less than twenty years, that amount of time spent for brewing a plan was insane. For him, it was simply unbelievable.

Seeing Eros’ reaction, Flerodome sighed. Even for him who lived for many years, it was still surprising. Hearing that his master openly shared everything, he also said, “Master’s words carries the truth. Since master hid his power to everyone even to us direct apprentices, the plot somehow got out of hand, and intense fighting broke out against master and that traitor with the help of another enemy. Before the ones who plotted against him escaped, he was able to forcefully snatch one of the traitor’s pocket. We almost didn’t find any clue in that pocket, however, a very simple necklace revealed the truth. It was a necklace that that traitor carried ever since he was picked up by our master. Shockingly, that very necklace contained a similar aura as the entity who poisoned my master! It was very clear that the one who created that necklace was none other than that very enemy!”

Now au fait with Hearthenfire’s case both Eros and Eris felt closer to the Rhaks. Both felt pity but didn’t show it in any form. Remembering the sadness in Hearthenfire’s voice which carried no hatred, Eros thought back to his own father. Even though he made countless mistakes, his father forgives and accepts. In fact, he sometimes blames himself from not being there for Eros always. Clearly it was what the hint of disappointment in Hearthenfire’s voice was telling; disappointment that he was not able to change his son’s nature.

After some time, another clash started. This time, there were stronger opponents. Powerful magical formation that serves as traps caused some Rhaks to perish. In the end, there were three deaths from their side.

Flerodome remained calm as they proceeded along, but everyone else wore more serious expression. As time passed, more clashes occurred, and the death count increased to a worrying amount. Even Flerodome could not help but frown. There are still two more days before they reach the Kingdom, and yet, their manpower kept on dwindling even though they kept avoiding a full-blown clash.

“It seems this two days will test our true capabilities.” Flerodome said, “Master, two days from now please allow me to send these five Rhaks to aid Hilador on the front lines. I am enough to protect Eros and Eris. I swear by my life that even our group is wiped out, they will escape unharmed.”

There was no immediate answer from Hearthenfire inside the palanquin, but after a while, his voice gave an unexpected command. “Go with them to the front lines, but not in two days. Instead, send them right now. This midnight, the real fight shall start.”

Flerodome’s face turned grim. He does not know how his master came upon such conclusion, yet no doubt arose from his heart. In fact, he took it as a fact.

Without delay, he ordered the five Rhaks guarding Eros and Eris to follow him. All of them did not even bat an eye as if they will willingly give their life to Flerodome anytime.

“Impressive..” Eros thought. Every word of Hearthenfire was treated like orders of a God. As far as Eros know only the ruler of elves carried such command over his subjects.

Time passed quickly, and midnight came. Silence prevailed as not even blowing of winds could be heard. It was as if the nature itself knew that something was going to occur and was preparing a battlefield equal to all.

Suddenly, like a gong to start a war, an explosion resounded! Flames erupted, and numerous magical techniques clashed!

There were not only elves. Other races were the forefront of the enemy. The Rhaks didn’t expect this. Even Flerodome and Hilador felt that they underestimated their opponents.

“Mercenaries.” Flerodome said with a frown. His eyes darted at many directions as if attempting to locate the leader of such coalition.

“Those bastards!” Hilador bellowed in rage, “They will really do anything to eliminate us! Even hiring mercenaries as meat shields!”

“Calm down.” Flerodome’s hands pressed on Hilador’s shoulder as he said, “This is motely crew cannot deliver a fatal blow. If we can locate those giving orders, they would disperse in an instant.”

Face with numerical disadvantage, the Rhaks could only stay on the defensive. More infuriating was that the mercenaries were avoiding a full-blown clash. They would attack in coordination, slowly ripping apart the Rhaks formation.

Hilador’s temper couldn’t hold such cowardly behavior. “Holding numerical advantage, but still using such shameful tactic!” He shouted goadingly towards the enemies, yet nothing came as reply. Only mocking laughter of the mercenaries echoed from afar.

Flames erupted from Hilador’s body and hair. His muscles doubled in size, and his face became vicious that it could cower a lion to flee for its life.

“Do not be rush.” Flerodome’s voice sounded again to mollify Hilador.

“I know, but this war would end in our defeat if we do nothing.”

Then without hesitation, Hilador stepped forward and waved his hand. That simple hand gesture seemed like a command that prompted many to follow by his side.

“I will do the slaughtering, you do the thinking.. Just like we always do.” Hilador said before rushing towards the direction of the enemies. Many trees burned on his path revealing some enemies lurking after doing some coordinated attack.

Flerodome sighed, but he did not voice out any opposition. He knew fairly well how Hilador deals with such matters, and it was always with brute force and unmatched power.

Explosions quickly followed Hiladors departure, yet Flerodome remained calm and kept observing the surroundings.

Time passed, and the tide of the battle never flowed to one side. Eros also kept watch with his soul magic. The more he watches, the more he felt that something was amiss. It was as if the enemies were simply messing around, yet those seemingly unnatural attacks always catch the Rhaks by surprise.

“Another interesting one.” The voice of Hearthenfire in the palanquin cut short Eros’ thoughts. “The leader seems to be not an elf.”

Then he said, as if Flerodome was in front of him while he gives his orders, “Move forward and burn the forest as far as our reach to dust.”

Amazingly, Flerodome who was in the front line seemed to have heard the words directly beside his ear, then he replied, “Yes master, but how do we deal with their advantage in number.”

“Let Hilador deal with it. The enemy is simply delaying us.”

“I understand.” Flerodome said, and quickly followed the orders. He himself understood that the enemies were planning something, yet he just could not just guess it yet.

He raised his fist, then in an instant his body was covered with flames. Along with him, the other Rhaks also did the same. Heat wave dried all the plants and trees, but it did not end there. Shockingly, the heat suddenly vanished, and the fists of all the Rhaks simultaneously sped towards the ground! Numerous punch of amazing force suddenly met the land, yet it was not the most amazing sight. Flames like raging tide swept from the Rhaks towards the forest and burned everything to dust!

Shrill screams echoed out, some enemies were burned, and others survived using shields or various means to save their lives. But now that countless trees were burned, they were exposed at plain sight waiting to be hunted.

Both side did not move for a while. Obviously, the Rhaks were stronger, yet in front of them numerous enemy stood. It was apparent that it would be a bloody battle.

Not far, but still hidden within lush trees and the darkness of the night, a group stood. An eerie laugh easily revealed their location, yet they seem to be still undetected by the Rhaks. “So they noticed… Not a dumb as I thought.”

“Sir, what do we do now?” Someone asked politely as if he was addressing the leader of the mercenaries, “They seemed to have noticed our trap and would be able too escape the magic formation.”

“Escape? No one escapes my magic.” He replied, then began laughing again as if he was looking down on everything.

At the battlefield, the Rhaks began to advance forward as ordered. Clashes occurred, but this time it was more straightforward and would always end up with injuries at both sides.

Lesser they may seem, the Rhaks were actually winning. Their advance couldn’t be halted, especially with Hilador leading with unyielding force.

“Sir, they will be out of your formation soon.” Another one said nervously while hidden in the forest.

The leader of the group seems to not care as he casually answered, “Worry not. Those moving candles are not much of a threat.”

“But sir, those Rhaks really will be out of the formation.”

The leader of the mercenaries then began boasting, “You are doubting my powers. I have once faced a king and survived. These mere flame carrying meatheads are no match for me!”

“We understand your greatness sir, but only a few steps of the enemies and everything will be for naught.” This time, the voice was clearly worried.

“Alright. Alright.” The leader of the mercenaries said casually. “Then have them activate it.”

“Sir, you truly are wise.”

….

Suddenly an odd change in the battlefield occurred. The mercenaries began backing up, while releasing magic to halt the Rhaks advance.

Both Flerodome and Hilador knew that it was the decisive moment of the fight. If they could survive this next wave of attack, victory would be at their grasp.

Even Eros asked with worry, “What are they up to now?”

“As expected we are in a giant spell formation.” Hearthenfire said, “And such a complex one.”

“What?” Eros and Eris both asked surprised. “How did you detect it?”

“Where the flames of my clan exist, my consciousness exist.”

“So burning the trees and asking us to march forward wasn’t just empty command. He was attempting to escape the formation!” Eros thought with amazement. “But, it’s too late.”

Hearthenfire seemed to have noticed Eros’ thoughts and said, “I tried to stir the battlefield so that they would have a hard time setting up the spell, yet it seems I underestimated the enemy’s skill. However, worry not, the Rhaks are not fragile to fall under a single trap.”

As he was speaking, a red light suddenly emerged from the ground covering an area wide enough to trap all the Rhaks. If viewed from above, it seemed as if a blood dome covered the land. As soon as the light appeared, an unknown force sapped every Rhak’s energy; most of them even fell on their knees.

Fortunately, it wasn’t as effective on stronger Rhaks. Most affected are those wizards and weaker grand wizards.

Strangely, Eros and was unaffected. He was weaker than most of the Rhak’s in the battlefield so there was no reason for him to not feel as fatigued.

Even Eris was starting to look pale, but with Eros beside her, she was quickly held by Eros to not fall on her knees.

As everything happened in an instant, Eros was also caught of guard, but he quickly gained clarity and lifted his hands. Doing a grasping motion, some light seemed to turn tangible. It was caught in his palm. When he slowly opened his hand, the red light turned into white motes of light like fireflies escaping his grasp.

“Dispelled?” Hearthenfire said, shocked. “You can dispel this spell formation?”

Eros was silent for a bit, before he nodded. He quickly chanted some spell to undo the spell formation’ effect on Eris’ body, and without pause, he did it to Hearthenfire whose face was colored with astonishment.

“Not only you’re able to cure the poison in my body. You’re also able to dispel such complex spell formation.” Hearthenfire said, “You are indeed worthy of winning Genna.”

“This is not a spell formation.” Eros answered, his eyes seemingly gazing at a distance, and his lips slowly curving into a smile. “This is a curse! A curse I know all too well.”

Then without hesitation, he gave Hearthenfire some explanation “This curse is too big and strong for one person to operate. Those mercenaries who attacked us earlier are probably supplying this with their own energy and numerous magic stones. They greatly outnumber us, but each of the Rhak’s are far stronger, so sacrificing some of their allies to significantly reduce our fighting capability is very logical. However, the one who created and controls the curse seems to be located far away. It also feels like that he is very confident in this curse that he isn’t even bothering to control it.”

Eros then asked large quantity of magic stones from Hearthenfire and gave some instructions. Surprisingly, Hearthenfire complied without question.

In no time, a small formation was created around Eros where he sat crossed legged and focused all his attention.

Hearthenfire also busied himself and did as what he was instructed. He quickly gave an order to all the Rhaks to channel all their remaining energy to Eros, even those who were in the brink of collapse.

All the magic stones around him started to vibrate as he muttered some complex spells, and enormous amount of energy surged to him from all the Rhaks in the surrounding. With it, Eros felt each one of them connected to him, as if a thought can cause them to collapse without knowing.

Suddenly, the red dome of light began to vibrate, and it started to turn into motes of white light ready to transform into nothingness whenever Eros willed.

However, Eros did not yet do so. Only when he suddenly opened his eyes, did the red light vanish and every Rhak regained their strength!

As opposed to this, those mercenaries giving energy to the curse suddenly collapsed as if all their energy was sapped dry and transferred to the Rhaks! Even those simply standing on guard got affected causing the mercenaries count to fall by half.

However, everything that happened did not faze Eros a bit, instead, he smiled and said, “There you are!”

…

Deep in the forest, the leader of the mercenaries suddenly trembled. His nonstop boasting suddenly stopped, and his eyes went wide as if he saw the devils rise from the ground.

“My curse… My invincible curse… How..”

Everyone gasped upon hearing his words. Even without the leader saying it. They knew that the curse has failed. Everyone went silent seemingly contemplating on what move to do next.

However, one voice suddenly sounded, “I told you your curse ain’t useful. Better punch them all to death now.”

“Shut up you brainless oaf!” The leader retorted with anger. “A king can possibly destroy that curse due to disparity of power, but they did not just dispel the curse. They even reversed it!

Again, everyone gasped. They were told that their enemies were only Rhaks, and the leader was strong, but not strong enough to be called invincible. Yet, they all felt like they have been tricked and was now facing an enemy beyond their means.

“Calm down everyone. I was just careless so that’s why they were able to reverse my curse” The leader said, “For now ask everyone to retreat, they have yet to discover our location.”

Soon, every mercenary surrounding the Rhaks who can still move started to flee. They were disorganized and could be easily hunted down if the Rhaks tried, yet the Rhaks didn’t do so. Instead, Eros, Eris, Hilador, Flerodome and Hearthenfire himself rushed towards a different direction.

They were like meteors that flew towards a lush mountain. All the other Rhaks quickly followed suit but ensuring that no mercenary could follow Hearthenfire’s group.

“Oh. Fireballs.” One of the mercenaries hiding in the forest said. It was the same voice mocking the mercenary leader’s curse.

“Idiot! Those are the Rhaks!” The mercenary leader shouted, scrambling to climb the shoulder of the one mocking him. “Run!”

“Uhh… But they look pretty.”

Upon hearing those words, the leader felt desperate and kept slapping the head of other mercenary, yet it did no good, as he was too focused on the fire and even stretched his hands as if he will try to catch them with his bare palm.

The other mercenaries who were in the dark, started to sweat profusely and began to flee. Only two were left on the spot when the Rhaks landed. Nearby trees and plants were burned to ashes and even the ground turned molten from heat. As these happened, the duo was easily exposed without the cover of the forest. The leader could do nothing but wave and give a wry smile while saying, “Hi.”

Eros almost laughed but he controlled himself. He was disguised as a sokai so he deemed it more appropriate to be serious this time.

“Eekk!” The leader shrieked, “Sokais! So you’ve teamed up with the Rhaks to search for us!”

Eros disguised as a sokai stepped forward and said, “Fryr and Hagu. Two thieves pretending to be mercenaries.” Then he stopped his tracks and reached out his palm, “Hand over the sacred amphora and you might be spared.”

“Uhh.. Alright.” Hagu said, “Hey Fryr, they seem nice. Hand it over.”

“No!” Fryr retorted in rage, “They are the ones who stole their own sacred amphora. We rescued it. So its mine!”

“But we’re outnumbered.” Hagu said.

“That’s why I told you to run!” Fryr then smacked Hagu’s head again, “Stop using your small brain and just use your body to escape as I ordered!”

Seeing the duo bickering, Eros sighed, and glanced at Hearthenfire. With Hearthenfire’s wits it was easy to deduce the that Eros knew the duo, so he played along and with a threatening voice he said, “Hand it over or perish!”

His voice carried the power of the strongest Rhak. He was far stronger than the king of Thormos, thus causing Fryr to feel that he would be burned if he resists further.

He considered fighting back, but without Hagu cooperating it was an impossible task. Drowned in greed, it was tormenting to give up such rare item. So, with one last nudge, he tried to urge Hagu to flee in a rush.

However, Hearthenfire wouldn’t allow such actions. So, in an instant, he appeared in front of Fryr as if he teleported, then pulled him by the neck after which reappeared where he was previously standing.

It happened so fast that even Hagu was surprised. Also, Hilador and Flerodome didn’t give Hagu time to attack, they quickly used magic to pin him on spot. Unfortunately, it only angered Hagu and it seemed that with a bit more struggle, he would be able to free himself from the spell.

Several roars of Hagu sounded. Birds even far away flew, frightened. “How can he resist the both of us!” Hilador said shocked, “He’s only at the level of a wizard!”

“Hehehe.” Eerie laughter could be heard from Fryr even though he was being held in the neck, “You can’t stop him. The wisest choice for all of you is to release us before the Immortal Hagu turns you all into a mess of blood and go….” But before he could finish his line, several more Rhaks landed and quickly assisted Hilador and Flerodome to hold Hagu on the spot.

Fryr’s face quickly fell. Given time, Hagu might be able to escape, but for him, it would be too late.

“So you’re saying?” Eros slowly walked towards Hagu with a devious grin and pulled out a scroll “Hand over the amphora and pledge you shall never covet it your entire life.”

As Eros words were spoken, the hands around Fryr’s neck slowly tightened. He now knew too well that there is no hope but to give in to the enemy’s demand.

“I cannot believe the invincible mercenaries of Stint’s Covet would fail a mission.” Fryr said slightly pained. Maybe both from being strangled and being beaten in his game.

He placed his hand in his pocket and pulled out an amphora. Eros didn’t hesitate to take it and exchanged it with the scroll on hand. With a satisfied smile, he said, “Alright do the contract.”

Fryr did the contract, and Eros followed suit. The contract was very simple; Fryr would never covet the sacred amphora while in turn Eros would release the two.

The deal seemed to have ended well so Fryr began tapping Hearthenfire’s arms while asking to be released. As soon as Hearthenfire’s hands loosened, Fryr landed on the ground slightly coughing to make it appear he was the victim.

Eros could not help but feel like laughing to Fryr’s familiar antics, yet he still held his back from revealing his true self. “It would be fun to tease him more.” Eros thought.

However, before he could say a word, Fryr began laughing manically. He raised his hands towards Eros and Hearthenfire. Then pointed a finger, along with a very confident smile. “These two are cursed and will die if any of you make a move. I will not covet the sacred amphora, but it doesn’t mean I can’t covet any other items you have!”

Everyone gasped. In the arms of Hearthenfire an odd symbol glowed. It was obviously the curse Fryr was referring to. Having their leader’s life threatened, everyone didn’t dare move. Even Hagu’s restriction started to wane.

Fryr felt very proud, he guessed right that Hearthenfire was the leader of the Rhaks! With this, he knew that he could possible reverse the situation and gain the upper hand. “You might have found a way to deal with my gigantic curse earlier, but that is only because a little carelessness. Only I can reverse my curse! Even the Kings fear it!”

Feeling more proud he began boasting and threatening, yet somehow Eros’ interrupted him, “I’m no king, but this curse won’t work on me.”

Eros then smiled and waved his hands. Shockingly, such simple gesture made the symbol on Hearthenfire’s arm to crumble and vanish.

Fryr’s jaw dropped and his eyes went wide. “This can’t be.. I’m the only one who knows this cur… Wait! Eros!”

Eros smiled and said, “Long time no see… Fryr.” As he said those words, his disguise began to vanish, and his true face was revealed!

Hagu who was in rage still struggling, also stopped. His mood seemed to quickly change as he waved his hands and shouted, “Hey Eros! You’re alive.”

Eris’ disguise also faded showing a bright mile to Fryr and Hagu. “I’m also here. Maybe you should now change your name to Vincible Mercenaries of Stint’s Covet.”