The Lightbearer's Gift

Denerif Mason:

I sat in my office, looking over the reports from my many agents in the capitol. To put it mildly; everything was a mess. It took over a day to put out the fires, and even now they were pulling bodies out of collapsed buildings. The tale of Moon's battle will be told for decades. The elf himself was missing. He was a mercurial being, arrogant and largely apathetic to anything that did not advance his own interest. That made maneuvering him in a position advantageous to me, both complex and simple.

Thirty members of the nobility were dead, apparently from a stray airblast. Current estimates place the total number, not including Moon’s relentless slaughter of Members of the underworld, at roughly 4000. Most were from the fires and his mad dash through the streets to get to his apprentice. I thought back to the bright young girl and felt a small amount of remorse for her death. I still felt chills down my spine when I remembered Moon’s eyes. Black as tar, or ink, with no trace of the purple iris. How a creature can be so terrifying and lovely was beyond me.

As soon as I could. I sent my agents into the city, spreading the lies and truth I wanted to tell. To get the reaction I wanted from the populace, I needed to humanize Moon in the eyes of the peasants. So, I had the tale of his first assassination and the subsequent rescue by Benny, after crawling in the forest missing two limbs, spread. I made sure to add that the ones who hired the assassins were the elves and hinted that someone in the imperial family supplied the coin.

Given enough time the opinion of Moon will change from perpetrator to victim. It was the perfect way to embed Moon even deeper into our interests. Any chance of the imperial family getting his allegiance was severed, and there was no chance that he would be allying with the elves. I'll just have to wait until he finishes his vengeance. Morianne, most thought, was the greatest magical power in all the lands, but opinions are changing, and I am in the perfect position to capitalize.

It had only been a week since my transformation, and every day I felt stronger and healthier. Hearing, sight, smell, touch; everything was improved. It was as if I was blind to the world, and now I could see. Roses never smelled so sweet, and meat has never been more savory. I clenched my fist, feeling the strength that flowed. I only gave him 150,000 gelding, a fortune to be sure, but I would easily give ten times that. Every scar, bump, and blemish were gone, and as he said: Every Morning I looked younger, like I was aging in reverse. Allyissia had no less than three dukes sending marriage proposals, her enhanced looks were almost elf like in terms of uncanny beauty, but it was decided that she remain unattached for a time. Wouldn’t want moon’s gaze to drift elsewhere, since he didn't seem the type to be a paramour.

While I'm sure that the citizenry can be convinced to view Moon in a more sympathetic light, the nobility however, were not so understanding. They were demanding justice be done. The elves within the city were denying any involvement in the assassination. The situation was becoming untenable. It wasn't until Morianne arrived in the city that things started to calm down.

The master mages, however, were strangely quiet and did not make any statements on Moon. It had been an enormous effort to keep him isolated from others in power. I’m sure he knew what we were doing, but so long as I delivered on his requests, I doubted he cared. Either way this situation was a perfect point to begin eroding the imperial family’s power and influence. I almost wanted to hug the prince for delivering such a gift. I can't wait to see what kind of monster he turns that wyvern into.

A knock at my door interrupted my thoughts. I returned to my neutral mask and in a calm voice said. “Enter.”

Lidia, my lovely assistant, walked in with a startled expression on her face. That was strange.

“Princess Morianne is requesting your presence, she is currently waiting outside the manse, with her royal guard.”

How amusing, the first princess calling on a lowly commoner, personally, instead of sending for them. My, how much of a debacle the imperial family must be in. Another point in time I would feel intimidated that she came with her full retinue. But that only showed her weak position. Perhaps it is the raw power that coursed through my limbs that filled me with such defiance. But Moon came to me for assistance and trusted me with the body of his apprentice while he went off on his killing spree. That information I made sure to spread, being a trusted ally of Moon's, was already paying dividends.

“I'll see her after I’ve finished these reports. Do treat her with the respect befitting her station.”

The girl looked at me with fear in her eyes and nodded. “As you wish my Lord.” I watched Lidia leave and decided to have her tonight.

Keeping the imperial princess waiting was quite disrespectful and something I would never do, since she wouldn't hesitate to put me in my place. However, I wanted to test how desperate a situation she is in. If she acts how she normally would then I will of course offer her the deepest apologies, publicly even. But if she doesn't then, she must be under pressure from the emperor to resolve the issue with Moon.

Twenty minutes later I exited the front door of my manse. Apparently, the princess was not in the mood for pleasantries. She stood in her full Enchanted Mithrite armor, it was a stunning piece that I was still upset I had to give up. Like her own guards she had three amplifiers. According to my mages the air gem in her chest was the most powerful in recorded history.

She wasn't wearing her helmet and allowed her black hair to flow freely. In the morning sun she looked rather striking. Her steel blue eyes locked on to me. Her gaze didn't quite intimidate me as much as before. As a non-mage she could kill me with the flick of her wrist. And that was usually enough to give me pause. But after seeing Moon’s eyes that fateful day, little else seemed as intimidating. Those eyes don't belong on such a comely face. Focusing my thoughts, I approached the princess and bowed.

“My apologies, Your Grace, I was preoccupied with business I could not interrupt.”

She almost sneered as she said. “Of course,”

So, she was in a desperate situation.

“What do I owe the honor of your company Your Grace.”

Her voice was all business. “The elf. Where is he? Do not tell me you don't know.”

Well, I don't even have to lie in this case. In my most formal and respectful tone, I answered. “I do not currently know. I managed to find the sight where he cremated his apprentice and his mount. But then we lost the trail deep into the mountains.”

She didn't seem to believe me but it's not like she’s going to find evidence to the contrary. “Very well. I require all the information you have on him.”

“May I ask what for?”

“Many of the nobles in the city desire retribution for the deaths of their family members, there were three riots. Now half the city is claiming that my family was responsible for the assassination and the subsequent destruction. Do not pretend to be ignorant.”

I never actually leaked that it was the imperial prince, only that someone in the imperial family was responsible. Good, let her twist in the wind at something for all her power she can't control.

“A white account with links to the imperial family was used. To the sum of 56000 gelding so it is entirely possible that someone in the imperial family was responsible.”

She looked at me rather angrily. And I enjoyed every moment.

“And you informed Moon of this?” she asked. Revealing this information to him could be seen as treason if she pushed. But what was I supposed to do? Moon was a powerful mage, and I was a lowly banker. I'm sure that's how she would see it.

“Of course. Moon, a good friend of mine, was almost killed. My honor demanded that I find the culprits.” I was putting on an exceptional performance by my own estimation.

“What was his reaction?”

“Irritation, though he didn't seem inclined to seek revenge?”

Her eyes became piercing, perhaps it was the intense stare, but I swear I could see lightning behind them. “And now?”

“I’m not sure, his mount was butchered. His apprentice, the same apprentice that saved his life, was killed in the streets. I had her body prepared for burial. The damage was extensive.”

I just needed to push her to the edge and bring her back. Fortunately, I didn't even need to pretend for the next part.

“You know the elven, princess, his eyes were as black as tar, an abyss of rage so deep I feared I would fall in.”

Morianne straightened, her rage, calming a bit. “So, conflict is inevitable. Is that what you are saying.”

“In the present situation, yes, but it need not be the case. I believe I can convince him that revenge against the imperial family is not the best approach. After all, I doubt whoever provided the coin knew of the recipient's intentions.”

She didn't look convinced. “You believe you can reason with an enraged elf?”

I understood her point. When they get in that state usually only blood can calm them down.

“Yes, he is not like most elves. If he comes for his vengeance, ensure I am there. I can talk him down.”

“Very well Mason. What of his abilities? we still have use for them.” she said.

I couldn't hold back the laughter. That only brought back her anger. “That bridge burned with his apprentice. Convincing him to not go after the family for vengeance is one thing. But I will not insult our friendship by asking him to work for you. That is a risk you have to take on your own.”

She sneered at being denied but right now she did not have the power to compel me to do anything. It was dangerous, but with Moon on my side, well they didn't want to add to the list of things that he wanted to seek vengeance for. I know Moon does not consider me a friend in any capacity. But fortunately, he was willing to attend all those nonsense dinners and plays to keep up appearances.

“When he arrives, I will expect your presence. See that you talk him down or what happened that day would pale in comparison to a confrontation with me.”

I bowed deep and respectfully, mostly to hide the smile growing across my face. Excellent, this was the perfect way to deepen our connection. I just had to present it to Moon the right way. The princess didn't know but, in her attempt, to stop Moon from destroying the empire, she just guaranteed it.

Duchess Allyssia Hearthaven:

Briannah and I were enjoying an evening brunch in my garden. Things in my duchy were well in hand, the walls were being repaired, and my barons were ruling according to my will. I only hope Moon finishes His business in the capitol soon since his abilities would be of use in restoring my army. The one light mage I hired was woefully under equipped for the task, even with the amplifier I procured for him. Still, he was better than nothing.

“What of your betrothed has he made peace with moving to Wigmore?” I asked Briannah.

“Yes, though Markus has complained incessantly about losing connection to his family.”

I rolled my eyes. “He should be grateful he is marrying above his station, just see to it that you produce an heir as quickly as possible. Then he can have his freedom.”

At times she still hasn’t grown out of that childishness. The duchy wasn't yet stable, so worrying about him being homesick is not a concern.

Briannah sighed and said. “Yes, Aunt Allyssia. I also have a request.”

“What is it?”

“The enhancement Moon has done. Is that something you can ask him to do for me?”

I suppose she would bring this up at some point. In the months since then, Briannah and I Looked almost the same age.

“No, largely because he would not do it.”

“Can you not convince him? I thought you had some sway over him.”

I suppose I never taught her about such things. “You think because we often share a bed, I command him?”

“That's the rumor.” she said meekly.

“There are two types of men that can be controlled through sex. A man with low confidence and self-worth is easy, just make him feel like he is greater than what he is, he'll become addicted, and you can make him do anything. You're betrothed for example. The other wants a woman as a trophy, something to show off and stroke his ego. Intelligence is usually not their strong point. They are even easier to control.”

She looked confused but didn't seem willing to defend her husband's honor. Anyone with eyes can tell the man is about as strong willed as a mouse.

“Which one is Moon?” Briannah asked.

“Neither. He is arrogance incarnate and admires himself more than he does any woman. I'm sure he thinks himself the most desirable thing in any room. Worst still he is powerful and intelligent, and he knows it.”

“But I've personally seen him defer to you in public.”

“A fiction we created; he couldn't be bothered to deal with the requests. It was perceived that I held sway over him. Most men would despise that idea spreading but not Moon. As far as he was concerned that meant he would not have to deal with the annoyance of the nobility. The coin he earned was just a bonus.”

Briannah calmed down as she realized. “Ah. Is there no true feeling between you two?”

I wish. It would make my position even better. “No, the only one Moon truly adores is himself and perhaps his apprentice to a small degree. The moment he doesn't benefit he will leave for greener pastures.”

“So, to get him to do what you want, you have to offer something of greater value than the effort he would use?” Briannah said.

“Yes, and at times his requests are troublesome. But what choice do I have, I cannot allow him to fall into the hands of another, and he will not hesitate to use that fact to his advantage.”

“Is there no means to compel him beyond that?” Briannah asked.

“A man without a wife, children, or family cannot be threatened. There is his apprentice I suppose but that is also doomed to failure.”

I had noticed the shine Benny had taken with her was more than friendship. The foolish girl decided to cut that off out of loyalty to her betrothed, I need to teach her better. Now any attempt to maneuver Moon through Benny was gone.

A servant came over carrying a letter. After finishing, a cold sweat ran down my back. I must not have guarded my expression well enough since Briannah asked.

“What is it that makes you look worried?”

I glanced up at Briannah and said. “There was an attack on Moon in the capitol. Thousands are dead. Moon fled and is still missing. Both his mount and his apprentice are dead.”

Briannah looked horrified. “Benny is dead. But she seemed so powerful.”

“They were separated. Thirty elves attacked moon, Noire was killed before she could take flight. Five human mages and three elves attacked benny though it could have been more. She managed to kill all but three of them. Moon went on a rampage and slaughtered anyone affiliated with the underworld, innocent or not. Denerif assumes he will do the same to the elven clans responsible.

“Why would they attack in the city?”

“I do not know. It seems foolish, so their desire to kill Moon must have been great.”

I sighed and considered my options; Denerif seemed confident that he could convince Moon to hold off on his vengeance on the imperial family. How to handle this? I suppose for some reason if he turns up here, I'll play the supportive and understanding lover role. Yes, that's what I'll do. Let Denerif play his game, I'll suggest nothing. Just bed him repeatedly to take mind off things. Ease his tension and calm his mind. Comfort and peace; most people don't realize how precious these things are, until they're taken away, soon enough he will crave it. And where else is better than in my arms?

Moon was never the type to sit still for long and soon enough he would start coming up with ideas. Every time he did, I benefited massively.

“We will begin spreading this throughout the city. I will of course recuse myself from court out of worry or some such nonsense. You were a friend of Benny’s so make sure to present sufficiently grieved.”

Denerif was already doing the same, I’ll send the information along to Shorecast and Halloway. Soon enough half the empire will start condemning the actions of the imperial family. Not revealing who actually was involved only served to place the blame on the entire family than an individual.

Moon Solaris:

It has been over three months since I've cremated Benny and Noire. I had taken great pains to avoid any contact with human civilization, or any civilization really. Other than stopping in villages and purchasing supplies. In my heavy cloak no one knew who I was. The last trip to the village was to purchase as much rope as possible. I spent time doing nothing other than practicing my magic. Now I sat upon a rocky beach staring out to the western sea, far from the mountains near the imperial capital.

I would not rush my vengeance. I replayed my battle, over and over, thousands of times. Thinking about what spells I should have used, better ways to counter their magic. I practiced new combinations of spells. I repaired the flame mages amplifier and wore it on my right hand. On my left was Benny’s. In that time, I found calm and focus. Accepting what had happened to my apprentice and resolving to do better if I take another.

It is as I have always said. The past mistakes cannot be taken back so I will move forward. I will have vengeance for my apprentice and then I will forge something new. Something great. Something the entire world will envy. Too long have I been content being the tool that others used. Now it is time I become the hand. Too long have I walked, ran, and flew from place to place collecting power. It is time I sat down.

A roar sounded off into the distance. It was long and loud, a combination of high-pitched scream, exploding volcano and unending thunder. It shook the ground, sending the many sea birds flying off into the distance. Baelathor was approaching from the sea carrying his latest catch.

He was my greatest creation and tool for my vengeance. I will show the world the true power of the Lightbearer.

I could see him just off in the distance approaching. His massive blood red wings whipping a whirlpool of water with each flap, the gleaming white scales reflecting the sunlight. His massive 1000-foot wingspan blotted out the sun as he passed overhead. The trailing wind whipped up the air and sand around me. In one of his talons, he carried what looked like a whale.

To say Baelathor was large would be the greatest understatement in history. He was almost 500 feet long from head to tail. I had to assume his weight had to be around one or two thousand tons, by the way he shook the earth. To sustain his growth, he ate constantly. Eating several times his mass in animals per day. I needed to constantly travel to feed his unending hunger. It wasn't until we reached the ocean after nearly a month that he found a sufficient source of food. Which were whales and other large sea creatures.

He consumed hundreds of thousands of pounds of meat a day. I was worried that he would never stop eating until a week ago he shed his scales, and his growth slowed. As the days passed the frequency of his eating decreased. Until he only went out to hunt around once every other day.

I never tire of watching the massive creature fly. Its wings extended all the way to the base of his tail. His teeth were as long as swords and his head was shaped like a massive angry snarl and covered in sharp white spines. None of these features were as terrifying as his fire. Before they were little more than small bursts only large enough to stun an animal. Now he vomited an ocean of flame. If not for my constant commands he would have burned down several forests.

He dropped the whale several hundred feet away, he knew enough to not eat near me. Then he landed shaking the earth kicking up massive mounds of sand and rock. He couldn't even fit on the beach, so half his body was in the water. Bealathor folded his wings in and crawled over to the whale. Then it breathed fire in a constant stream, bathing the whale, charring its flesh, and turning the surrounding sand to glass. Even from this distance I could feel the intense heat, but it never seemed to bother him.

50 lives worth of living ether it took to create that creature. Every day I would push ether into him until he got close to his limits. Over a period of weeks, the limit extended until it stopped, then I would push him over the barrier. Before even the first breakthrough he grew over 20 feet in length. I repeated this process for the second breakthrough. Now I was rather drained.

The reason I put so much effort into him was that I wanted a beast so massive, so monstrous that no one would dare challenge me again. It would take well over a hundred lives to push through the third barrier, but I didn't even want to consider what he would turn into. I strapped my amplifier and prepared to fly. I had no real way to get back to civilization quickly, since I fed the horses to my wyvern. I had nothing of real value in the carriage besides my elven sword, enchanting kit, A sack containing Benny’s armor, a loose collection of mithrite, a water amplifier and etheric gems.

I would have to head to the capitol at some point and collect information, but not now. I needed a saddle and there was one man I knew that could do it. After Baelathor finished I walked over carrying the long length of rope.

“Alright time to go. Bring your head over here.” It took a few commands to maneuver his body out of the water so I could climb up his wings and onto his back. I walked along his spine until I reached his neck. Then I tied a complex series of knots around his spines then dropped the rope to either side. I slid down, until I reached the sand. I had him lift his head and I tied off the two ends as tight as I could around the base of his neck.

That should be enough to keep me secure for the flight. I climbed up his wings and tied a length of rope around my torso and connected it to the rope sound his spines. I attached my belongings to the rope and hoped nothing would come loose in the flight. Even with him lying down like this I was still rather high in the air.

“Ok give me a shake.”

He twisted and wiggled his massive body. I rocked madly back and forth, holding on for dear life as the rope pulled taut but didn't break.

With some excitement I said. “Baelathor, it's time for the world to know of your existence.”

“FLY” I screamed in English.

He let loose a deafening roar, then in a single massive leap from his legs he launched himself forward extending his wings. There was a massive pulse in the ether as he took to the sky. I was jerked violently in the saddle as the winds generated from his wings felt like a hurricane. The flapping sounds were deafening. We climbed higher and higher, his flapping becoming less violent as we picked up speed.

We soared high, past the overcast sky above the clouds. I grinned in satisfaction as I saw nothing but the open sky. Nothing in the world compared to this feeling, the freedom. Baelathor flew gracefully, his massive form completely unaffected by the winds. With a mental command I pointed him southeast towards Hearthaven. Hopefully, Umber isn't going to be too terrified to create a saddle for me.

We climbed to over 5000 feet. Soaring past Mountains, cities and finally over the Great Stormveil sea. We were going somewhere around 150 miles per hour and that was just his casual flying speed. A creature this size couldn't fly normally. But massive amounts of ether flowed over his wings providing both lift and thrust. The near 800-mile journey would be over in a little over 4 hours. I could go faster but I didn't trust the crude rope harness.

Finally, I could see Hearthaven in the distance, so I slowly descended to a little over 1000 feet. As soon as we reached the harbor, I commanded Him. “Baelathor, announce yourself.”

I created a shield to block the sound. His roar could be heard for miles, I couldn't imagine what it was like for the citizenry. A massive snow-white wyvern with blood red wings flying overhead was probably not something they thought they would see today.

I flew past the front gate and spiraled down for a landing. He shook the earth as he landed digging up the ground.

“Good boy,” I said, patting his back.

A deep rumbling sound that devolved into shuffling, emitted from his mouth. Taking a knife I cut the rope. I removed my enchanting kit and the sack containing Bennys armor and a few other things. I would find a proper place for it eventually, but for now I would have Allyssia hold on to it. I purposely landed at the east of the city away from the main gate.

With a firm command to not attack or kill any humans I made my way down his wing and headed to the city.

It was something of a pain to lug all my belongings along to the entrance, but I'm sure there would be someone to greet me by the time I get there. It took me nearly thirty minutes before riders were storming across the field towards my location. Guards by the look of it. When they spotted me, they slowed down.

“Sir Moon, good to see you again.” I remember that voice.

“Vanya! how have you been?” It seems my test subject has taken up a post as a guard.

“Good my lord, would you like help with those?”

I was carrying a sack with Benny’s armor, the spare gems and Mithrite as well as the crude amplifiers, and case with my enchanting supplies. Slung across my waist was my elven sword as well as the one I gave benny. I had my own light amplifier strapped across my back.

“If you wouldn't mind.”

Then she ordered the rest of the guards around her. “Carry his things, and you, Give him your horse. Not to worry My lord, they're not stupid and they won't run off with any of your things.”

I gave them everything but my amplifier to carry.

I mounted the provided horse and said to the men. “Bring those to the keep.”

“Yes, My Lord” they responded in unison. They hefted the canvas sack as if he was carrying a newborn child.

We headed to the entrance at a slow trot.

“So, is the gigantic flying monster your mount?” she asked awkwardly. Even a quarter mile away his massive form was dominating the horizon. The terrified glances the rest of the guards were throwing Baelathor every time he moved or was attracted to a sound was amusing.

“Yes, it's called a wyvern. His name is Baelathor.”

“Not gonna lie, I thought I was marchin to my death when the cap sent me to investigate. The entire city thought it was ending times.”

“I suppose that's expected. I'm sure you have heard about what happened at the capitol.”

“Oh yes. Everyone knows what happened. The damn elves tried to kill you, and the imperial family let it happen. Heard you paid the underworld back a hundredfold for Benny. I'm sorry about her.”

Of course that's how Denerif spun the story.

“It's all right, tell me how things are in the Duchy?”

“Good enough. Things are calming down and trade is picking back up. And the repairs on the walls are almost finished. I even heard that Wigmore is recovering well under Baroness Velcor’s leadership.”

“And Duchess Hearthaven?”

“She’s well I think, the Lords love her since she has opened up trade again and taxes are low. Her baronies are coming inline quickly. It's funny all you have to do is make sure everyone is safe and have full bellies and they stop caring about how many died in the war.”

What an interesting thought, I'll keep that in mind.

We passed through the gate with minor delay and headed to the keep. People trailed along pointing and whispering amongst themselves excitedly.

“You've been talked about for months. Some thought you fled the continent.”

“When I flew over the city, I thought it would be fear with which I was greeted. It seems to be the opposite, "I said.

“Well, you and the Duchess are…..friendly, are you not? And it's already spreading that is your new mount after Noires death.”

“Ah. I see.” as I understood.

In their eyes, I was here to see my lover, not destroy the city. No doubt Allyssia has been encouraging this idea. If they believed that I had some Infatuation for Allyssia, then that beast is not an enemy. I was well aware of her using our supposed connection as a tool to further her own ends. But it didn't really matter to me, for every deal she made more coin was delivered to my account. Every noble lady she sent to me for cosmetic changes filled my pockets with gold. So let her play her game. If my plans for Moria are to be completed, then I would need massive amounts of capital.

We passed through the noble quarter with much the same fanfare until we finally reached the keep. At the gates were Allyssia, Briannah, General Feyrun, and a light mage I didn't recognize.

On our approach Allyssia had a smile so wide it was mildly disconcerting on her beautiful face. There was a trail of nobility that was watching our precession.

I dismounted and started to approach her. “Moon, it is so good to see you safe. I am so sorry for the loss of your apprentice.”

Surprisingly, she stepped forward and brought me into a hug that I didn't return, pushing my face into her bosom. It was a good performance on her part. If I didn't know her, I would have believed it. Outward demonstrations of affection like this is never done amongst the nobility. Though I assumed that it was just to banish any worries about the gigantic wyvern outside their walls.

“It’s good to see you Allyssia, shall we talk, preferably without the audience.”

Her eyes flicked to the watching nobles and whispered. “Of course, just a few more seconds to send their tongues wagging.”

“Perhaps we can have a meal. I have grown tired of dried meats and hardtack.”

An hour later we were in the familiar gardens under a covered eating supper. Usually, I would be more elegant with my eating but three months of being on the road didn't allow me to have proper food.

Briannah, General Feyrun, Alyssia and I were all sitting around the table.

After I had eaten almost the entirety of a Cornish hen. I finally felt like having a conversation.

“Do tell what has been happening in the empire while I've been missing.” I asked. As I took a gulp of my favorite spiced wine.

Allyssia answered. “Oh, you're the talk of the empire, and the imperial family has quite the black eye from the entire affair. Once news of your latest beast spreads well those demanding your death will quickly grow silent. The rest of our friends were quite pleased with the situation. For now, they will play neutral.”

Yes, this would cause a rift. With no allegiance to the elves and no friendship with the imperial family, my allegiance will play a significant role when the north and south start dividing.

“I see.”

“How did she die?” Briannah asked. This was the first time she had spoken.

“Massive intracranial hemorrhaging, from blunt force trauma to the head” I said. I said it so bluntly that Briannah slightly jolted.

“It was quick.” I added.

General Feyrun asked. “Now you have a beast of vengeance, yes. Do you intend on burning the capitol to ashes for the involvement of the imperial family?”

He did not sound accusatory. Did I? I was still contemplating. My desire for retribution was warring with my logical mind. There would be so many things to lose if I simply attacked the capitol with full force.

“I'm considering. Their involvement can be attributed less to maliciousness and more to stupidity. But make no mistake that only extends to me not burning the capital to cinders. I would, without hesitation, kill those involved.”

“What about the elves involved?” Allyssia asked.

I gave her a cold heartless stare; the same one I used when slaughtering the underworld.

“I will have their heads for this. Make no mistake, even if I have to burn that entire forest down.”

She swallowed and said. “I see. No less that they deserve.”

“I'll have to go to the capitol to see Denerif. I'm sure he’s busy compiling information. But before that I need a proper saddle for Baelathor, so I came here to find the one man I knew could do it.”

“So Baelathor is his name. Noire was an impressive beast, but this latest monster Is likely beyond any reasonable expectation.” Allyssia said.

“That is the point. No one can challenge that kind of power without major loss. I put a lot of effort into that creature.”

Even now I still felt drained, but it was worth it. I think I now know how to safely pass the third threshold. But the sheer volume of life it would take to repeat what I did with Baelathor was not worth considering.

"For now, fill me in on everything that happened in the empire while I was gone. "

Half an hour later.

Allyssia and I lounged in her own private baths, the ground-based tub could have held 10 people. It was beyond enjoyable to soak my bones. She has been extra attentive to me, even offering to wash my back and hair. Now we were in waist deep water enjoying the hot steam and sweet scent of flowers. The fantastic view of her body was a nice addition. She sat on the opposite side of the bath, eyeing me.

“You seem tired” she said.

“I am. Creating Baelathor was more draining than I had anticipated.”

She crossed the distance between us, straddled my thighs and started to trail kisses along my brow, then cheek and then lips. She pulled back and looked me in the eye and said.

“Then you should rest, let us retire to my bed for the night. Tomorrow you can worry about such things.”

I knew what she was doing but I couldn't care less at the moment. I did need the rest. A few turns in bed with her then a deep meditation and I should be right as rain. Then I would plan and prepare.