“So..” Fryr grumbled, “So it was all your scheme eh, kid?”

“No. You, being the leader of the mercenaries was rather unexpected.” Eros replied, “Fortunately you bestowed me your curse magic, so it was easy to fight and track you down.”

Fryr eyed Eros from head to toe mockingly, “To trick your own master, you sure have guts now.”

“Oh. A master betraying his own student and leaving him to die on the land of sokai’s. I guess even with this, you still owe me.” Eros stared back at Fryr in disdain.

“Never remind me of those eggheads! We only stole what they stole! In fact, we didn’t betray you. We’re Heroes! And that Alram egghead will feel my wrath someday.”

Hearing this, Eros confirmed that what he inferred was true. Fryr obviously desired for the sacred amphora, but Alram’s thirst for power was greater, so in the end, it was him who stole the amphora and pushed the blame to Fryr. Unfortunately, Fryr proved to be a very bad scapegoat and ruined his plan; even to the extent of stealing the sacred amphora which he long desire.

Fryr then darted his eyes at Eros direction and said, “I almost died in that damned egghead’s land, so you should give me back that sacre…” But before he could finish, he suddenly choked in his words. His face paled and cold sweat run through his back.

“What were you saying?” Eros asked with a smile.

Fryr breathed heavily. His hands still trembling. “I almost died.”

“So that contract is actually this strong. Just your words and thoughts can kill you.” Eros eyes sparkled as if his interest was piqued. He did several of this contract, but he never had the thought of betraying his words and never had he seen someone getting affected by it.

Extremely curious, he pulled out the sacred amphora and placed it in front of Fryr. Fryr shrieked and jumped backward while his eyes we’re closed. “You’re trying to kill me kid! One whole year really gave you guts!”

“I’m just casually putting the sacred amphora there. What’s the prob… Wait.. Did you say one year? We were missing for one whole year?”

“Did all your brain turn into guts? That’s why you forgot even that?” Fryr replied furiously, still edging away from the amphora.

This time Hagu walked towards them and said, “Maybe he got a problem with his head again. Should I hit him on his head?”

Hearing Hagu’s familiar line, Eros could only shake his head and smile. He wondered how these duo can stay alive and always escape from danger without harm. They constantly fight and Hagu was obviously not that smart, but now he was starting to doubt if Hagu was just acting and was actually very cunning.

But when he saw how Hagu was preparing to hit his head, the doubt quickly vanished from his mind.

….

Since the leader of the mercenaries were captured, all the fighting ended. Fryr also quickly changed side and leaked all the enemy’s secrets. Now it became clear to Eros that the enemies hired mercenaries to disrupt order for the allies of the Kingdom of Sheles. Being charismatic and very powerful as told in Fryr’s story, Fryr was able to organize the mercenaries and act as its leader.

Even though they were acting under order of the rebel elves, they knew little of them and their true aim. All Fryr knew was that rebelling force was equally powerful as the Kingdom of Sheles. Many are also still in the kingdom acting as spies. Unfortunately, their identities still remain a mystery even to the ruler of the kingdom.

Also, the rebels seem to be avoiding a full-blown war. A war of attrition seems to be their priority. It felt as if they were not there to overthrow the ruler but instead keep chaos from occurring.

Hearing Fryr’s words, Eros could feel that this isn’t a simple struggle for power, but he had no way to know the real reason. Keeping this all at the back of his head, he sighed and thought, “My priority is still to go gain strength and go back to Eunos.” Then he glanced at Eris softly, “Also, her safety.”

Without any enemy blocking their path, they quickly reached the kingdom’s gate. Lead by Hearthenfire, no guard dared to hinder their entry to the interior of the kingdom.

Nothing changed much in the structure of the buildings after Eros’ long absence, but noticeably, there were less merchants and peddlers, even the elves meandering in the streets seems restless.

Many glanced at their direction. Some simply curious, but most carrying suspicion. Clearly, the betrayal of some from the Ten Great Families greatly affected the order of the kingdom.

Although this wasn’t very welcoming, Hearthenfire seem to not care. His face remained calm while he steadily walked towards ruler’s caste.

Not long, an elf appeared before them. He spread his arms and with a smile, he said, “Lord Hearthenfire, and the mighty Rhaks, Welcome to the Kingdom of Sheles!”

Hearthenfire smiled back and said, “It has been a while, but I will be blunt and ask for Sir Saevel’s assistance.”

“No need to hold back. I already know what you seek.” Saevel then moved to the side to open a path for them, “The ruler is waiting.”

Hearthenfire simply nodded. He knew from the moment that he stepped into the gates of the Kingdom of Sheles, the ruler already knew his intentions. He also did not bother and introduce Eros, since Saevel glanced at Eros before even speaking.

Without wasting time, Saevel walked side by side Hearthenfire, then looked at Eros deeply and said, “I’m glad you’re safe.”

Eros didn’t much have to say, and simply expressed his gratitude. Soon, the group reached the castle where Hearthenfire, Eros, and Eris was led to the ruler, whereas the rest were left to the castle’s courtyard.

Not long, they were right in front of the throne. The ruler was elegantly seated with face still devoid of any expression. As soon as Hearthenfire laid eyes on the ruler, he quickly knelt. Eris did the same, and quickly tugged Eros’ arm to do the same.

“Rise” The king said. “You may speak.”

Hearthenfire quickly stepped forward and recounted everything that happened in his territory, including the poison that almost took his life and how fate played its role for Eros to become his benefactor. He hid nothing in front of the ruler. In fact, he even disclosed that his own adopted son poisoned him.

Seeing this, Eros could not help but admire Hearthenfire’s loyalty to the ruler. If it was him, he would definitely keep some information and only provide it with equal renumeration.

After Hearthenfire was done disclosing all that he knows, he quickly knelt again. Everyone knew that such action would be followed by great entreaty.

The ruler was no stranger to such, so before Hearthenfire could speak, the ruler said, “His safety would be on his own hands. My subjects don’t have assurance they can survive, and even my life can be whisked away anytime by unknown foe.”

Hearthenfire knew that requesting for special protection for Eros was indeed excessive during war, but he still felt the need to do so since it was apparent that it is the reason Eros seeks the ruler’s presence.

The ruler then turned to Eros’ and continued, “Also, his fate is beyond mine. His wish for safety is not for himself but for his friend.”

Eros who was simply listening could not help but raise his head and glance at the ruler. He was already surprised that Hearthenfire would guess his reason for seeking the ruler, but now he felt more amazed that the ruler could even deduce that Eris was the reason he wishes for safety.

As their eyes met, the ruler went silent and seemed to reminisce about the past, then he continued, “I am still unable to read you, but the look in your eyes remind me of someone from my past - an elf who would do anything to gain strength to protect his love ones. To gain power, this war would be the best place.”

The ruler then stood up and said his final orders, “Hearthenfire, together with the Varel Family, you shall protect the south towards your own land. You can destroy anyone who shows a sign of betrayal, even if it is the head of the Varel!”

Hearthenfire’s face flickered, then he bowed deeply expressing his affirmation to oblige by the order. To be given authority to eliminate even a head of a great family, it was clear that the ruler trust no one, even the Rhak’s was not excluded. Perhaps, the Varel also received the same order to eliminate him in case any traitorous act is detected.

Soon, the ruler left, and Eros’ group was escorted out. While Hearthenfire was deep in thought, Eros was still grumbling by himself since he got nothing from meeting the ruler and wasn’t even given the opportunity to speak. Only when Eris spoke in kind words that she need no protection and only needs Eros by her side did Eros feel a little better.

However, noticing the rushing figure of Hagu and Fryr towards them made him feel that safety might be a far away dream if this two is with him.

Noticing Eros’ worried expression, Hearthenfire took the initiative to offer Eros’ group to guard the south along with the Rhaks. Even though the ruler seems to avoid being entwined with Eros’ fate, Hearthenfire couldn’t do the same, and he couldn’t guess the reason for the ruler’s decision. Eros is his benefactor and giving him a bit of protection is the most he can do even though it won’t match up to what the ruler could have offered.

Fryr’s eyes immediately glittered in excitement upon hearing Hearthenfire’s words. Without even thinking, he began tugging Eros’ clothes. “Eros! Treasures, there are plenty of treasures in wars. Let’s come with the Rhaks!”

Eros pushed away Fryr’s hand showing disinterest, “It is very dangerous out there. I cannot gamble our lives for petty reasons.”

Quickly, Fryr leaped in front of him and began explaining with passion, “Fool! The Rhaks are strong, and with Hearthfire’s protection, it would be easier to kill us inside this unsecure kingdom than in the front lines!”

Eros was suddenly put in deep thought. Fryr’s words indeed sound very reasonable even though it sounds somehow forced. Also, going back to Ronsorth is out of the question. He doesn’t even know who to trust. In the end, going with Hearthenfire do seem the best option so far.

After ruminating for some time, Eros sighed. He then faced Hearthenfire and said, “We’re in your care.”

….

“Grandfather, the ruler tasked us to guard and clear the south along with the Rhaks, are we under suspicion?”

“Everyone is.” A middle aged elf answered. Despite being addressed as grandfather, there weren’t many wrinkles in his face. His features are ordinary compared to other elves, even his physique seem weak. Yet, even though he simply sat on a chair with a quill pen on his hand, his eyes radiated wisdom far beyond any elf in the kingdom. “Herthenfire might seem to be tasked to watch us, but I was also tasked to watch them. The ruler trust no one. That is how he stayed in power for so long.”

“Pyria, you need not worry about trivial matters. All you need to do is focus in growing during this war. Wars brings sorrow, yet it also births heroes. You are the future of our family, and the new hero Sheles will see.”

“I understand, grandfather.” Pyria bowed deeply before turning back to leave, but after only three steps, she stopped her steps and said, “I may have disappointed you in Genna, but this time I will make you proud.” Then she continued and left.

Pyria’s grandfather then sighed and thought, “You represented the Varel well in Genna. It just happens that Eros Libera is beyond extraordinary. I have never been a student of Ronsorth, but even I’m unsure if I can reach the top of the Hall of Knowledge.”

….

A day after meeting the ruler, a decree was announced that four of the six remaining great families would defend the four corners of the kingdom. The Varel family would defend south, the Oriro would defend west, the Yara would defend the east, and the Umero family would the defend the north. As for the remaining families, they will defend the interior of the kingdom. Everything related to offence would be handled by the three prestigious schools.

Before this decree, the defenses were being done by the great families based on their own judgement, and they were only focusing on the kingdom itself. However, with this, they are now forced to reclaim the borders of the kingdom and ensure its safety.

Eros’ group arrived at a certain destination in the south of the kingdom. It was the center of defense of the Varel family which was recently built to act as their base of operation. There, many trees intertwined together forming many small dwellings could be seen. Numerous elves walked to and fro the base; many of them were wizards and some mages. Clearly, the war didn’t exclude the weaker ones to participate. Even with rushed preparation, the place was surprisingly organized. It was as if they have already anticipated they will be tasked to protect the south.

As the lord of the Rhaks, Hearthenfire needed to plan for the war along with the Varel family so he left Eros’ motley crew on their own as soon as they arrived.

“This is it!” Fryr exclaimed, filled with energy, “We can now start planning on how to get as much out of this war.” Then with great excitement, he began scribbling in the ground on what appears to be his plans.

Eros on the other hand simply ignored Fryr and kept a vigilant eye on his surroundings. After experiencing many dangers in Eunos, he grew up to be more apprehensive. Also, he placed great importance to the safety of Eris.

On the contrary, Eris seems to be carefree and kept darting her sight as if looking for somebody. Only after a short while did she stop and a smile appeared on her face. Then Eros heard a familiar emotionless voice, “Eris? Eros? What brings you here?”

“Lensa!” Eris rushed towards the Lensa who was slightly confused to see the two, “I haven’t seen you for a long time.”

“It’s because both of you disappeared as soon as Eros won Genna.” Lensa answered flatly.

Seeing Eris excitedly holding Lensa’s hands, he said, “We’ve been gone for more than a year and now that we’re back, your face still remains as placid as ever. Can’t you show some excitement?”

Even though Eros said those words, he could not help but smile. He was not sure if it was his curse of emotions that allows him to see new things, or if Lensa was simply truly glad to meet them. Clearly her face remained as expressionless as before, yet her eyes radiated extreme joy.

Out of all the students in Ronsorth, Lensa was the most he had respect for. She had always been kind to them even being a stranger, and befriended Eris which made her stay in Ronsorth more comfortable.

As response, Lensa didn’t smile or speak. She simply stared at Eros and deeply for a long time before turning to leave, dragging Eris along with her.

In the perspective of others, Lensa’s actions might have been misinterpreted as hostility, but to Eros, he clearly felt the intent in Lensa’s eyes. It was clearer than what words could even describe.

In her eyes, he remembered corey. Her gaze also carried the same caring nature and joy for seeing him grow. It was a very nostalgic feeling for Eros that he fell into daze.

“Eros!”

Eros was quickly jolted back to reality by Fryr’s bellow. It seemed that he was shouting for a while now; excited to see Eros’ reaction to his plan. However, to his dismay Eros’ wasn’t even listening.

“Listen!” Fryr pointed at the ground where his crude plan is laid out, “Based on my knowledge, this, this and this.” Rapidly pointing using his grubby fingers. “Those are the places we need to watch out for. Based on my knowledge in these places for the past year, they are likely to have huge clashes in those locations.”

Eros’ rubbed his chin as if trying to gauge Fryr’s intention.

Seeing this, Fryr again flew into rage, “I thought you have grown since you have the guts to steal from me, but it seems you still need my guidance.” He then began walking haughtily around his drawing in the ground and began explaining, “With wars, there are countless deaths. When one dies, their possession becomes no ones. And in this war, those no ones are us!”

Eros’ was slightly shocked, “Are you saying we will loot the dead? And how are you sure we will not die while doing so.”

“No. no. no. This is treasure hunting. Dead is dead. Their treasure belongs to no one. Also, we will not die. Hearthenfire will position us to the safest spot.”

Eros felt hesitant. He had no hope for Fryr’s idea even before agreeing to follow Hearthenfire, but he never thought the goblin will go as low as looting the dead which they did not even slay.

Being with Fryr for a long time, he knew that anything the goblin does comes with huge risk, and anyone who knows him will quickly disagree to him after witnessing his antics. However, Eros has already known this power called wealth. It might be not as beautiful as battle powers, but it is extremely practical and helpful.

Not aware of his own actions, he was already nodding as he pondered on Fryr’s words. It was as if he already developed the same mentality as Fryr or more like he was truly as greedy as him.

Seeing this, Fryr could not help but smile wide. His smile might be ugly from his yellow and broken teeth, but it signifies that he hoodwinked Eros in his plan!

For the following days, Eros stayed occupied with Fryr to fool proof their plan. At first Eros was somehow doubtful, but as he takes time to listen to Fryr, he became more and more convinced that the plan might work.

Eris voiced out her disagreement with the plan and told Eros numerous times not to do it, but Fryrs words was too beguiling for Eros to say no.

After several attempts to stop Eros, Eris decided to give up convincing Eros. She instead spent time with Lensa while waiting for the orders of the higher ups. However, their seemingly casual chats actually benefitted Eris greatly. Lensa would recollect everything that happened the past year along with the future plans of the Varel family; Even some secrets of the Varel was revealed.

Time flowed by quickly. In only ten days, the Rhaks and Varel had seemingly merged into one entity. Their coordination and trust to each other felt as if they have been together for a decade. It was surprising for both Eros and Fryr who have just recently realized these changes after wasting all their time planning. However, thinking about the weight of Hearthenfire’s words to the Rhaks, Eros quickly accepted it to be somehow normal. “Hearthenfire’s words might even carry more weight for these Rhaks than the ruler of the kingdom.” Eros thought.

Various orders were given, but none related to Eros’ group. Only on the eleventh day did Flerodome approach Eros and relayed Hearthenfire’s words. It was not an order but rather an advice. Hearthenfire allowed Eros to do whatever he deems fit in this war. He can group up with Flerodome and gain experience as time goes on. If he obtains more knowledge in war, and power of his own, maybe one day Hearthenfire can gift him to lead a force of his own.

Fryr was overjoyed hearing Flerodome’s words. It perfectly aligned with his and Eros’ prediction. The more he thought about it, the more he felt to be smarter than everyone else. Eros was of similar train of thought. He even solemnly closed his eyes as if relishing his genius predictions. “Maybe I am actually a prophet.” He thought.

Not long, enemies started to appear from several locations and fighting broke out without halt. Obviously, Eros’ group already stationed themselves at the safest position inside Flerodome’s group. Even though it took them ten days to finish their plan, it was actually quite simple. What took them so long was predicting what task will be given to them, and how they will reject orders if it wasn’t favorable. Now that their guess was spot on, all they need to do was simply steal everything they can!

Their trump card is none other than Eros’ soul magic. Souls if needed can be barely discernable especially in the battlefield. They can roam around freely and can steal pockets whenever given the chance.

“Focus.” Fryr said. His eyes glowing with excitement. “This is all on you Eros. Our wealth will depend on your capability.”

“I know, so keep silent and start acting as if you and Hagu are slaughtering enemies.” Eros answered while his brows are tightly knit together.

In response, Fryr laughed maniacally and began fighting injured enemies. Obviously, he was targeting weaker ones while standing on the shoulder of Hagu. On the other hand, Eros remained rooted in his spot. His eyes darting at many directions while controlling numerous souls.

“I will make sure to perish with you with my last attack!” One elf shouted as flames erupted around him. He lifted his hands and waved it towards a Rhak in front. Flames exploded violently towards the Rhak. Everything it passed by became incinerated. It was apparent that the elf that attacked put all of his energy on this last strike.

BOOM!

A thunderous sound echoed out upon collision. However, unexpectedly, the flames which was supposed to devour the remains of the Rhak rapidly disappeared, and the Rhak became visible without injuries.

“Impossible…” The elf said weakly while falling on his knees. He sacrificed everything in that last attack, but to think that the Rhak would come out unharmed. Feeling very resentful, he tried to stand up and fight once more, but he had reached his limit. Now he knew that no amount of luck could save his life.

His enemy didn’t waste time. From his stride and even the way he observed everything around, one could tell he was raised to fight. With a step, he leaped towards the elf as flames covered his body. Then a punch landed on the elf’s face. Blood spluttered and the elf’s head exploded. Flames covered the elves body, and then nothing remained.

The Rhak’s brows slightly furrowed as soon as he glanced at the burning body of the elf. It was as if he noticed something odd, yet he did not investigate further since there are many enemies that might attack him any moment. “Maybe I just overdid it.” He said, then turned to find another opponent.

Not far, Eros, along with Eris stood behind many other Rhaks stationed for backup. His face remained calm, yet in his mind was extremely occupied. “I did it.” He thought, “But I almost got caught. I need to be extra careful.”

Fryr also glanced at him then smiled. “Perfect.” Fryr thought, “Controlling the flames of the Rhaks to accidentally burn the body of the enemy including their pocket, but in fact, stealing it using souls before it burns. Our plan is flawless!”

Even though he knew that Hearthenfire would never harm him. Eros does not know what an enraged Rhak could do.

As he continued stealing several more pockets with the same tactic, he felt the need to be more cautious, so instead of only forcefully controlling flames to burn the enemies body while stealing the pocket, he also added the curse of emotion to increase the rage the Rhak’s felt. This way, they would less likely spot the pocket being snatched away.

Clearly the extra effort ensured that even Flerodome was unaware of Eros’ actions.

Five… Eight.. Ten.. Eros continued to steal the pockets before the Rhaks could even notice. The more he did it, the easier it got. In fact, he started to get intoxicated in the feeling of stealing under one’s nose. It gave him the feeling that he could obtain anything while these lesser beings aren’t even aware. However, he quickly dismissed such thoughts, thinking that he might turn out like Fryr.

It did not take long for the fighting to end. There were some casualties in the Rhaks, but at a glance, one could tell they won the battle. Many bodies of the enemies were littered in the ground, and weapons of the deceased were scattered like weeds.

As soon as the fighting ended, a thorough check of the surroundings was conducted. When everything was deemed clear, the Rhaks began collecting their spoil. On the side, Eros simply watched from start to finish.

Flerodome kept a close eye on Eros during the whole battle, and he felt awed that Eros didn’t even flinch from all the blood and gore. In fact, fighting even occurred not far from Eros, but his expression never changed. Young Rhaks wouldn’t be able to keep the same calm as Eros in face of such gruesome battle. Only seasoned veterans could do the same.

“How was it, your first sight in the front lines?” Flerodome asked.

Eros was startled by the sudden question. In fact, he was still deep in thought controlling the soil. As soon as a soul stole a pocket, he ordered it to rapidly bury it in the ground. Being able to control elements ensured that he has full control of the land around him. Those pockets collected in the ground was then sent by Eros towards Fryr who secretly collected them using his own means. Being only adept at flames, the Rhaks obviously didn’t notice the movement of the earth below, especially while it was being masked by the fighting.

“Uh. I guess it was ok.” Eros answered, feigning a smile. “Maybe next time, I would have an opportunity to fight.”

Flerodome stared at Eros for a long time which made Eros feel very nervous. “Was I too obvious?” Eros thought. He knew that Flerodome was very logical and calm compared to Hilador, but his means were more terrifying, and he was harder to read. Fortunately, Flerodome’s next words stopped the cold sweat from trickling behind his neck. “You are indeed very brave, but I promised my master to ensure your safety so do not push yourself.”

As soon as everything calmed down and they came back to the base, Eros and Fryr secretly met up. Malicious laughter filled the place where they sat. Ensuring that they weren’t being watched, Fryr showed Eros their loot. There were many pockets, each of which contained many weapons, magic stones and other useful items.

“So how do we divide it?” Eros eyed Fryr doubtfully as he asked.

As if ignoring Eros’ blatant display of suspicion Fryr proudly said, “I will first trade all of this into magic stones using my own means. Then we can easily split it that way.”

Feeling more suspicious, Eros didn’t bother with words. He knew Fryr all too well, and he isn’t stupid to trust Fryr completely, so without hesitation, he tossed Fryr a scroll. “Pledge on a contract that you’ll divide it equally.”

Instead of feeling irritated, Fryr smiled, “You’ve really grown up kid.”