The Merlocks, despite their immense physical strength, did not attempt to break free from the thick ropes used to restrain them. This lack of resistance was due to the severely depleted physical condition of the Merlock army. Having gone without proper sustenance for days, the Merlocks were in a state of extreme dehydration and exhaustion, leaving them without the necessary energy and strength to even try to break through the four-inch-thick ropes.The limited availability of steel chains meant that ropes had to be used to restrain over a thousand Merlocks. Normally, these Merlocks would have had the brute force required to snap such ropes, but their weakened state prevented them from making any such attempt.The prolonged lack of food and water had completely sapped the Merlocks' physical resources, rendering them incapable of mounting any meaningful resistance to their restraints.The Merlocks' once-tough and slippery skin had transformed into a dry, flaky surface with cracks scatt
"Eat the food before you!" one of the ladies exclaimed, delivering a gentle tap to the shoulder of the knight, who the culinary delights had transfixed for a considerable duration."Alas, but..." the knight stammered, his gaze torn between the tantalizing fare and the insistent woman."The lord himself has granted you permission to indulge in as much as your heart desires," the woman replied, her smile radiating warmth and encouragement.The knight's eyes drifted back to the bustling kitchen, where a veritable menagerie of creatures, including the esteemed royal fowl, were being expertly carved and prepared by the nimble hands of the women. It was evident that the feast would continue well into the night, a testament to the abundance and generosity of the occasion.The unveiling of Wise's meticulously crafted, month-old batch of unreleased alcohol was a moment of anticipation and delight. This unique concoction, a novelty from the Ice Demon city, was a product born from sugarcane cult
Well, the system creates the reward based on difficulty. Getting five points is already considerate. [Right, why are you playing with such puny beings?]“Shut up.”The night swiftly passed, giving way to the morning, and with clarity, I understood my next task: to journey to the capital."We are setting off today, Master," Wise announced.The aftermath of the battlefield had been addressed, with all the fallen soldiers' remains consumed by the Vapilisk."Are my belongings prepared?" I inquired."Yes, Richard has arranged for a carriage as well, ensuring Master's entrance into the capital is befitting," Wise declared with pride. He admired Richard's gesture, acknowledging the merchant's discernment in knowing when to be generous."Master," Wise hesitated momentarily, "Ethan's father may be present.""I am aware," I responded.Duke Ifrit, a significant figure—no, he would undoubtedly be in attendance."It wouldn't be unexpected for us to cross paths in the Capital. This invitation was
"What brings you to our humble abode, sir?" inquired the old man, his demeanor hospitable."I require accommodations for my party," I stated simply, leaving the specifics unspoken as I awaited the village head's response.The old man gazed upon the youthful man with vibrant, golden locks, and in his weathered eyes, a glimmer of hope ignited. It was as if a treasure trove of gleaming gold coins had arrived at the doorstep of his humble village, promising a brighter future and a chance to escape the shackles of poverty that had long weighed upon his community.The ornate carriage, adorned with intricate designs and pulled by a team of majestic steeds, was a sight to behold. The guards, clad in exquisite armour that shimmered in the sunlight, stood tall and proud, their very presence commanding respect and awe. Even the warhorse, with its regal bearing and meticulously groomed coat, seemed to exude an air of superiority and privilege.This was precisely the scene that the old man's grea
As the morning sun peeked through the windows, I turned to the old man with a mix of curiosity and awe. "Tell me more about that tower," I urged, my voice laced with anticipation.The old man's eyes sparkled with pride as he began to speak. "Ah, the Ancient Tower!" His voice boomed, echoing through the room. "That magnificent structure is our guardian, our shield against the terrors that lurk in the forest. It's said to be capable of felling even a B-rank monster with a single, mighty blow!"I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder. "The Ancient Tower?" I repeated, my tone laced with doubt. "I never would have imagined such a marvel existed in a humble village like yours."The old man's face creased into a warm smile. "Yes, my young friend. That tower has stood watch over our village for nigh on ten years now. It was a blessing from the Blue Magic Tower, which expanded its domain and offered its protection to the surrounding villages and towns. Of course, we pay our taxes in gratitu
Sia's decision to join the Blue Tower was driven by her desire to conduct research on a mysterious stone tablet. As a unique blend of celestial and human heritage, her father, who had wed her mother, a mage affiliated with the Blue Tower, added to her intrigue. Despite numerous discussions within the Tower about the enigmatic stone tablet's history, even the founder of the adventurer association, with all its vast connections, failed to unravel its secrets.Some of Sia's older family members even speculated that the stone tablet was not constructed by the Blue Tower; rather, the Tower had established its realm around it. Interestingly, the language inscribed on the tablet was the common tongue spoken in the empire.{Unveiling the Enigma of Magic}With just a handful of words, Sia couldn't shake off the weight settling in her heart. For mages, unlocking the secrets of powerful magic was their ultimate quest, overshadowing all other pursuits.According to the numerous mages and scholar
I just wanted to test Roland’s ability to track down people, I don’t actually would want him to fight off against Zikk. Although Roland has improved a lot, he is still a far cry away from reaching Zikk’s power levels. "Emmanuel, Lily, and Theo!" I called out, my voice resonating with authority and expectation."Yes, my lord," they replied in unison, their voices tinged with a mix of reverence and nervousness."Have you etched the intricate patterns of the magic circle into your minds?" I thundered, my words carrying a weight of urgency and intensity.The trio of young apprentices shrank back slightly, their hands instinctively finding refuge behind their backs, a gesture of respect and readiness. Their eyes, wide with a blend of determination and apprehension, locked onto mine, unable to form words under the weight of my gaze.Silence enveloped us, thick with the unspoken challenge and the unyielding demand for perfection in their training. A chuckle escaped my lips as I observed t
"We'll be back by evening!" they chorused, their voices filled with gratitude and excitement, as they set out to experience the wonders of Sapphire City.Roland, a muscular man, stood before me with a determined gaze. His words echoed with unwavering loyalty, "I will follow you, My lord." Yet, as he spoke, a subtle tremor betrayed his nerves, hinting at the weight of his decision.I observed him closely, noting the contrast between his imposing physique and his apparent disinterest in the arcane arts. Unlike the three young apprentices, Roland seemed drawn to a different path, one that resonated with my own summon, Dray. It was as if these muscular souls shared an unspoken kinship, a bond forged through their shared preference for physical prowess over magical might.A chuckle escaped my lips as I contemplated the irony of their similarities."Roland, have you no desire to explore this enchanting city?" I inquired, my voice tinged with excitement at the magical possibilities that surr