Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Zareth let out a groan of frustration as he fiddled with the straps of his waist belt.

After Rizok had reminded him that he needed to attend the public Declaration Ceremony, Zareth had been ready to leave at once. Unfortunately, his bodyguard had quickly informed him that Zareth was expected to wear formal clothing as he was no longer a common citizen. There werent exactly any laws about it, but the members of the Great Houses held different societal expectations for people who mattered and people who didnt.

Zareth had fortunately already purchased something semi-formal that he could wear; a stylized long-sleeved outer coat worn over a pair of tightly fitting trousers and long enough to pass his knees.

Despite the poor quality of your attire, I believe you will pass the expectations of the Great Houses, said Rizok, his eyes sharp as he looked critically over Zareths clothes. Although that Farida woman will likely be annoyed.The debut release of this chapter happened at Ñòv€l-B1n.

Zareth sometimes forgot that his bodyguard came from an upper class background, but then he went and made comments like that.

Yeah, well, Im not exactly rich enough to pay a high leveled [Seamstress] to make me any super fancy clothes, especially not with High Command being so stingy, Zareth grumbled as he looked at himself in the mirror. His superiors had been generous at first with his budget, but recently he was having to argue over every little expenditure. And what do you mean about the Great Houses approving? I noticed that some of my clients were more accepting than expected about my clothes, but I assumed that they were just being easy on me since they knew that I was poor.

The sherwani as a formal wear was introduced to these lands by the naga, Rizok explained patiently, reaching over to smooth out an errant wrinkle on his coat. Its more commonly worn by the humans in Arzuma. Humans who dislike the Great Houses, usually those from the clans, or naga in general would typically wear a dishdasha instead.

Zareth let out a second groan of frustration in as many minutes, although this time for a different reason. He hadnt known that he was making some kind of political statement with his clothing. These kinds of cultural details werent usually something that someone felt a need to teach a poor street rat.

Whatever. Its not like any of the human clans decided to take me in, so I dont really owe them anything, Zareth said with a dismissive wave of his hand. Racial tensions werent something that people from the Sunrise Slums had time to care about. You just make sure that I dont do anything too stupid during the ceremony. The last thing I need is to discover that Ive made influential enemies because I didnt bow at the right angle or something.

Rizok scoffed softly and shook his head. I think youll be fine. They should have reasonable expectations about your etiquette hopefully.

Ill have to find a way to increase the amount of money Im earning soon, Zareth thought with a wince as he noticed a subtle tear in the hem of his clothes. Maybe something with Cerebons emblem on it. Hopefully Rizok is right and nobody will judge me too harshly.

Pushing his abysmal monetary situation out of mind, Zareth gave himself one last minute look over before stepping away from the mirror and turning to face his bodyguard. After receiving Rizoks nod of approval, he sighed in relief and began making his way through his sparsely furnished home and out onto the street.

Zareth was somewhat surprised to see the streets near his home much less crowded than usual, but he quickly recalled that he lived near the city barracks and that the soldiers must all be preparing to head out to war. Many of them were probably enjoying their last few days in peace at one of the pleasure houses or with their loved ones.

Zareth was suddenly very glad that hed never actually gone through with his plans to join the military when he was younger. War wasnt something that he relished the thought of, no matter how skilled High Commands propagandists were at romanticizing it.

As he walked through the streets, Zareth passed by a pair of [Musicians] performing an upbeat song outside one of the more popular taverns, [Merchants] loudly hawking their wares, and a few old men gambling over a popular board game called Tawla.

It was obvious to Zareth that the people of TalQamar seemed to be surprisingly unconcerned about the imminent war. There was still some tension, of course, but it was much less than when the military first took over the city. Zareth figured that it was because everyone was already accustomed to the military going off to fight wars abroad, and didnt feel like it had anything to do with them.

It was widely known that TalQamars military was the most experienced, well-funded, and highest Leveled in the Qahtani Desert. So, nobody was expecting them to have much trouble defeating FalAshar. Not only that, but they trusted in the Skyglass Spire to save them from any attempted sieges.

Zareth dearly hoped that they were right, because things would probably become very bad if they werent.

As they neared the plaza, he could feel the mixture of excitement and apprehension filling the air. The plaza was always rather crowded, being a crosspoint that people had to travel through to reach different parts of the city, but was now more congested than Zareth had ever seen. A significant portion of the city must have shown up to attend, as the vast square was packed to the brim with citizens.

Large banners containing the crest of TalQamar hung from all the nearby buildings, their previously golden background replaced with a crimson that contrasted with the stylized depiction of the Skyglass Spire.

In the center of the plaza, there was a raised platform on which General Nasrith would likely be giving his speech announcing the war and completing the ceremony. A swift glance revealed the figure of the ambassador from FalAshar seated to the right of the platform, a grim faced ogre woman wearing heavily enchanted robes.

Even from here, Zareths [Magic Perception] allowed him to feel the power emanating from everything that the ambassador wore, which wasnt surprising given that FalAshar was ruled by an [Enchanter Lord]. More interestingly, his [Devotion Perception] revealed that the ambassador was deeply religious.

However, the most eye-catching thing wasnt in the plaza, but above it. Floating high in the sky was a strange iridescent structure that looked like a colossal diamond, except each of its sides was displaying a dizzying array of images. It reminded Zareth somewhat of those art pieces in which a glass structure infinitely reflected itself with mirrors. Despite being obviously magical in nature, the structure felt like a complete void to his [Magic Perception].

It was obviously supposed to be there given that nobody was running away in terror, but Zareth had no idea what it actually was.

Hey, Rizok. What is that supposed to be? asked Zareth, his voice raised so that his bodyguard could hear him over the clamor of the crowd.

That is House Kavasas famous Aetheric Reality Prism, answered Rizok as he glanced up at the magical artifact with a strange look in his eyes. Its an artifact that is said to be capable of creating a massive space in its interior far larger than any space expanding Skill that I know of. It can also fly at high speeds and can withstand significant damage. Not only that, but the artifacts spatial magic makes it possible for people inside to see and attack enemies outside while theyre protected within.

Zareth felt his eyes widen in amazement as he looked up at the prism. Thats amazing. I didnt even know that it was possible to make something like that. Why would House Kavasa bring out something like that for something like this?

If the floating prism could do what Rizok said it could, then it was an incredibly valuable artifact that would be worth an absolute fortune. It also made it clear to Zareth that the Great Houses were undoubtedly the strongest faction in TalQamar. Even the most powerful gangs could only dream of acquiring something like the Aetheric Reality Prism.

Its mostly a way for House Kavasa to show off their own wealth and power, Rizok explained, a hint of distaste creeping into his voice. There was a time that they used it exclusively for war, but nowadays House Kavasa uses it to host extravagant parties or something similar. In this case, they sent out invitations to everyone of significance who wished to watch the ceremony in leisure.

Zareth was barely able to stifle a bitter chuckle. Literally flying over the unwashed masses and relaxing in a self-contained spatial zone, while the rest of the city waited out in the hot desert sun was exactly the kind of thing that he expected from the ridiculously wealthy.

Involuntarily, his mind conjured images of wealthy nobles lazily sipping on expensive wine as they watched the proceedings from on high.

Pretentious bastards

Well then, where are we supposed to go? Zareth asked as he did his best to force down his envy. The plaza is too crowded. Well barely be able to see anything from here!

If the place was too packed for him to see the ceremony anyway, then he might as well just head on back home and get back to his experiments. Better that than sitting in the sun while a bunch of rich naga enjoy their ridiculous luxuries in their floating space defying fortress.

Rizok glanced at Zareth with a confused expression. Did you not hear me earlier, sir? House Kavasa sent out invitations for everyone of significance. That includes you.

Oh I forgot about that.

Right, that makes sense, Zareth said with a hint of embarrassment.

Suddenly, the ceremony wasnt looking so bad. A moment of childish glee bubbled up within him at the thought of being able to see the interior of such a powerful artifact. This was the sort of thing that the street urchins born in the Sunrise Slums could only dream of experiencing.

How do we? Zareth began, trailing off as he gestured at the floating prism.

Reaching into his tunic, Rizok retrieved a small crystal that looked similar in appearance to the Aetheric Reality Prism. This will lead us to the entry point set up by House Kasava, sir. Its enchanted to cast a visual illusion for the holder that directs them to the appropriate location.

Moments after Zareth accepted the small crystal from Rizok, it began to glow and an arrow suddenly appeared in his vision directing him to a side alley away from the crowded plaza.

Zareth couldnt help but feel a little intimidated as he followed the illusionary directions, the arrow continuing to adjust its trajectory as they maneuvered around the plaza. If House Kavasa was trying to show off their power, then they had succeeded as far as he was concerned. It was clear to Zareth that the difference between the Great Houses and his tiny little cult was like the difference between the sky and the earth.

Forget the Aetheric Reality Prism, even the small crystal in his hand was likely created by a talented [Enchanter] and beyond anything that he could hope to afford.

It certainly helped to put things into perspective

It wasnt long before Zareth and Rizok found themselves standing in a somewhat hidden alley with a rather conspicuous shimmering portal at the end of it. The crystal had allowed them to pass through some kind of ward that obscured the alley from view, preventing anyone else from finding it.

Zareth was a bit surprised when he saw that there werent any guards, but it made sense once he thought about it. That portal led to a gathering of the most powerful and highest leveled people in TalQamar. Anyone who went there with bad intentions would be lucky if they lived long enough to regret it.

After a shared glance with Rizok, Zareth proceeded to step through the portal, only to immediately stumble as the abrupt change in environment left him disoriented. After he managed to get his bearing, Zareth took a moment to look around and was immediately struck by his surroundings.

From the moment that hed reincarnated into this world, he had never left TalQamar or seen any environments other than the harsh Qahtani Desert. That was why Zareth felt so stunned when he saw the vast garden that surrounded him.

Verdant grass, lush trees, and many blooming flowers of every color filled his view. Trickling streams snaked their way through the carefully constructed garden, their clear waters revealing several fishes calmly swimming by. The pleasant scent of blossoming flowers filled the air, an aroma that Zareth hadnt had the chance to experience in this life and was all the more enhanced by his recently augmented nose. Even the scorching heat of TalQamar had been replaced by a comfortable, cool breeze.

Throughout the secluded paradise was a path leading to a luxurious mansion larger than any hed seen in TalQamar.

Zareth was so caught up looking at the scenery that he almost jumped in surprise when he heard an unfamiliar voice to his side. House Kavasa welcomes you, guest. Would you like me to escort you to the main event?

Turning to the voice, Zareth saw that it belonged to a strange being that resembled a male naga made completely from marble. Every inch of it was completely white, from its scales to its blank eyes, and it wore colorful sky blue silk robes and gold hemmed sash that marked it as a servant. It took embarrassingly long for Zareth to realize that he was being greeted by some manner of golem, which made sense given how predisposed House Kavasa seemed to be toward magic.

Uh, yes. Id appreciate that, Zareth said awkwardly. He wasnt quite sure how sapient the golem was given that it was supposed to require an extremely high level to create a being that was truly self-aware, but it couldnt hurt to be polite. Thank you for the help. Im Zareth, leader of the Cult of Cerebon. Who are you?

Lady Marilith gestured for Rizok to sit back down. Relax. You have more important things to do than greet a decrepit old woman. Besides, you arent the only one surprised to see me leave my manor. You should have seen the look on Agnazirs face when I told him Id be attending.

Lady Marilith, Kassan said after he managed to compose himself, his voice much more subdued than when he was speaking to Zareth. I have every intention of being impartial while offering assistance to my colleague.

Oh? So then it wasnt your intention to lure in the boy with promises of a few coins after House Khrysar used its influence to restrict his funding? Lady Marilith asked, arching a thin eyebrow in a way that made Kassan visibly flinch.

Zareth felt a wave of shock wash over him before turning to Kassan. That was you? Youre the reason that I cant get approved for more than the bare necessities?!

The look on Kassans face was all that Zareth needed as confirmation. Hed vaguely considered the man an ally since they were colleagues, but Zareth had apparently been far too naive.

I think it would be best if I take my leave, said Kassan, his voice uncharacteristically strained as he rose from his seat.

Kassan slithered away after giving a short bow to Lady Marilith, leaving Zareth and Rizok alone with the enigmatic woman.

Thank you, maam, Zareth said politely as the elderly naga casually claimed Kassans seat. Your intervention was very appreciated.

Think nothing of it, boy, Lady Marilith said dismissively as she leisurely ate one of his pastries. Its always a pleasure to ruin a few schemes when I get the chance, especially when its self serving. Besides, Rizok seems to be fond of you, so its the least that I could do. I can tell from that look in your eye that you have no idea who I am, so allow me to introduce myself. I am Marilith Vhelan of House Vhelan.

Zareth had been wondering how she knew Rizok, but it made sense now that he knew that he was from House Vhelan.

Its a pleasure to meet you, Lady Marilith, Zareth said politely. But what do you mean by self serving?

That brat may have been lying about a lot of things, but its true that every faction wants to coil their scales around all of these new religions, Lady Marilith said, her gaze as sharp as a blade. Your ability to sculpt flesh carries enormous potential, and House Vhelan would treat you far better than any of the other Great Houses.

Zareth found himself appreciating Lady Mariliths straightforwardness, especially after his conversation with Kassan. He wasnt all that eager to ally himself to the Great Houses, but there were many ways that they could help him, from access to funding to useful political connections.

Also, his instincts told him that his wishes wouldnt be granted if he proclaimed that he wanted to stay neutral.

However, well have plenty of time for that later, Lady Marilith continued before he could respond as she placed one of the crystals from House Kavasa on the table. Its about time for the ceremony to begin. It would be unwise to miss it.

A quick glance around the room revealed that Lady Marilith was correct, as everyone was either activating their crystals at one of the tables spread across the room or leaving to go watch the proceedings out in the garden.

Zareth could feel Lady Marilith channel a small amount of mana into the crystal, instantly causing it to activate and begin projecting an image of TalQamars central plaza like some sort of hologram. The image was extraordinarily detailed, revealing the figure of General Nasrith approaching the raised platform set up in the middle of the plaza while a row of heavily armored soldiers worked to control the crowd.

Once he reached his position, the General didnt waste any time before beginning his speech, his authoritative voice amplified by some manner of Skill as it boomed across the plaza and through the crystal, silencing the crowd.

Citizens of TalQamar, today is not a day of celebration, said General Nasrith, his voice unexpectedly somber. For more than four decades, I have served as the leader of this citys military. During that service I have faithfully led the sons and daughters of TalQamar to lands afar to secure the safety and prosperity of this city. However, it recently became obvious that we should have focused more on the threats at home than those abroad.

The silence was deafening as General Nasrith reached a pause in his speech. While there were many who didnt believe the official story, everyone knew that the General was referring to the Conclaves assassination of Raqasor.

After I learned about the actions of the scheming Conclave, I resolved to do everything in my power to prevent them from taking control of this city, General Nasrith continued, his gaze sweeping across the crowd. I exiled them from TalQamar and did what I could to free us of their influence. Were they wise, the Conclave would have been content with such leniency and left us alone. Instead, they chose to retaliate by sending their minions to kill and sow discord in our city. Today, I declare that we will not tolerate any further attacks on our home.

Many people among the crowd burst into applause at the declaration, but General Nasrith only gave them a few seconds to cheer before he continued.

It is for this reason that Im announcing a formal declaration of war against FalAshar, the city responsible for sheltering these dangerous fanatics, General Nasrith said gravely, his voice growing more animated as he continued his speech. I understand that there are some who sympathize with the Conclave. These individuals may worship the Conclaves gods or question the necessity of war. To them I say this. The Conclave has maliciously used their gods to control this city and keep its citizens compliant, while they further their own power. When Lord Raqasor threatened that power, they had him killed. We cannot stand idly by while such threats persist.

This time, the bout of applause that followed was louder. The people of TalQamar didnt overly care who ruled over them, but the Conclave had often been overbearing and wasnt very popular.

General Nasrith waited until the crowd once again became silent before continuing. War is dreadful and often leaves nothing but pain and suffering in its wake. However, we must defend our city, our home, our way of life, against those who seek to tear us down and use us all as tools. I pledge to you that we will not falter. We will win this war, and prove to all who watch that TalQamar is the greatest city in these lands!

Zareth was unsurprised when he heard the thunderous roar that came through the crystal. No matter the world, people liked being told that they were better than somebody else, and the citizens of TalQamar were no different.

Not particularly original, but hes not a horrible speaker, Lady Marilith said with detached amusement before her gaze suddenly turned sharp. Although, it seems like the opposition isnt all that interested in allowing him to have his moment. I have a feeling that this one is about to do something stupid.

Zareth watched as Lady Marilith waved her hand, somehow causing the image to focus on the ambassador from FalAshar.

The ogre womans face was twisted into a snarling expression filled with such hatred that Zareth felt a chill go down his back. It must have looked even more intimidating up close, because everyone near the ambassador was giving her a wide berth.

She does look like she wants to interrupt General Nasriths speech, but Im sure that the guards will be able to stop her, Zareth said after a moment of observation.

You would normally be correct, but I practically see the zealotry wafting off of that one, Lady Marilith responded. When it comes to gods and their servants, Ive learned that it is best to expect anything.

Before he could respond to that ominous statement, Zareth suddenly noticed that the ambassadors eyes had begun glowing and her previously furious expression had turned completely blank. Despite this change, the plaza was very large and not many people had noticed her.

That changed once the ambassadors body suddenly burst into pure white flames.

The fires must have been very hot since even the nearby civilians who werent looking at the ambassador immediately cringed back, but the woman herself didnt seem bothered. Instead, she slowly began to rise from the ground, ascending as if drawn upward by an invisible force.

The nearby [War Mages] didnt hesitate to attack, unleashing a flurry of spells that were all swallowed by the strange flames surrounding the woman.

Idiots, theres nothing that they can do until the ogres destroyed by her gods power, Lady Marilith muttered, her eyes trained on the flaming figure. I cant believe those fools were so incompetent that they allowed someone capable of being an Avatar into the city. What an absolute embarrassment. Fortunately, she probably wasnt strong enough for a deity to possess her directly, otherwise wed all already be dead.

Just as Lady Marilith finished speaking, the flaming woman finally opened her mouth and spoke with a voice that was deeply masculine and reverberated with power. Distantly, he registered the feeling of Cerebon turning far more of his attention to TalQamar than he ever had before, but Zareth was too focused on the spectacle to really react to his gods sudden interest.

Mortals. You hear the voice of High Prophet Venthys, chosen servant of Suhail. I have watched this city closely since my faithful were unjustly exiled from its walls, and I must say that I am disappointed, Venthys said through his avatar, his voice carrying throughout the city. My temple has offered you all nothing but kindness, and you all repaid that kindness by allowing your new leaders to persecute them. However, I do not blame you. I understand that it is your new rulers who led you astray.

Zareth instantly understood the High Prophets intentions and let out a soft curse. Trying to turn the people against their leaders would be far more effective than if he just started throwing fireballs into the crowd. Given that the ambassadors body was already beginning to deteriorate, it was unlikely that he would have had the time to do much damage regardless.

We have been accused by your leaders of crimes that we did not commit, even as they invite foreign gods into TalQamar, High Prophet Venthys continued. It is clear that they do not have your best intentions in mind. It is for this reason that Suhails divine punishment will fall only on those who take up arms against his faithful. We will prove this, now.

Zareth flinched as he heard the sound of several powerful explosions pass through the crystal, although he had no idea where it came from. Fortunately, Lady Marilith only needed a moment before she understood what was happening.

The Conclave likely attacked the citys garrison, along with a few other military locations, Lady Marilith said with a scowl. It seems like their plan is to destroy confidence in the military while showing that theyll avoid civilians. Its a clever plan, and our people are idiots for allowing it to happen. Knowing Nasrith, hell probably consider this a useless trick that wont change any of the upcoming battles.

Zareth could only watch in horror as High Prophet Venthys loomed over the site of the ruined ceremony, the ambassadors body collapsing as he looked down at the panicked crowd. I swear to you, people of TalQamar. Your city will soon be free of the traitors and vile gods that now infest it. We will return to guide you back to the right path.

With that, the ambassadors body could no longer sustain Suhails power and it burned to ashes in a burst of white flames.

The crystal continued showing scenes of the plaza for a few more moments, long enough for Zareth to spot a grim-faced General Nasrith being led away, until the image suddenly stopped projecting. There was a beat of silence within House Kavasas manor as everyone processed what had just happened, discussion slowly began to pick up.

Well, that was certainly exciting, said Lady Marilith, her tone far more casual than Zareth thought appropriate. I suppose now you see why people are so interested in keeping an eye on you, boy. Divine power can do ridiculous things when channeled through someone with a high level.

Will I be able to do something like that? Zareth asked in disbelief.

From what he could gather, High Prophet Venthys had just possessed one of his gods worshipers from the other side of the Qahtani Desert and resisted a full volley of attacks from several powerful [War Mages], just so he could deliver a short speech. That was a ridiculous display of power.

Maybe one day, if you survive long enough to gather a good deal of worshipers and achieve several Class evolutions, Lady Marilith said with a soft chuckle. But youll need to survive that long of course, which isnt easy in a city like TalQamar. You would benefit greatly from a few allies, and some friendly assistance.

Zareth took a moment to consider Lady Mariliths words and what he had just seen. Whether it be the Great Houses or the Conclave, today had revealed to him that the major factions of this world were capable of things he didnt even know were possible. He wasnt exactly ready to sign his life over to House Vhelan, but Lady Marilith was right that he needed help.

TalQamar was now a city at war, which only meant that it would grow even more dangerous than it already was.

I guess it cant hurt to hear her out. Unless I signed an oath, theres nothing stopping me from looking elsewhere if I dont like what she has to say.

What would this assistance look like? Zareth asked hesitantly, hoping that he wasnt making a mistake.

The satisfied smile that passed over Lady Mariliths lips did little to ease his worries.