Chapter 24

Chapter 24

This feels strange to me. Am I paranoid, Rizok? Zareth asked as he fidgeted in his seat.

Yes. You generally are, Rizok immediately responded from behind him, smirking traitorously at his distress before conceding that he was right. However, your concerns may be warranted in this case. I would have expected High Command to present an after action report of the battle at FalAshar to the entire Hierophant Council, rather than call you for a private meeting. Ive always known the officers to prioritize efficiency over all else.

Zareth let out a groan at that and slumped in his chair, trusting Rizoks [Aura of Greater Perception] to alert him if anyone began approaching the room.

According to Rizoks sources, it was his cult and the Desharin who were the greatest contributors to TalQamars recent battlefield victory. Neither the ogres nor the monks had participated in any significant way, though Zareth had heard rumors that they would play a greater role in the actual siege of FalAshar. Meanwhile, the Circle of Ghisara remained relatively enigmatic, and it was apparently rather difficult for Rizoks collaborators to monitor them.

I should ask Farida if High Command requested a private meeting with the Desharin next time I see her, Zareth mused to himself before glancing at his friend. It wouldve been nice if they could have waited until tomorrow to bring us in.

Even if the two of them were alone in High Commands meeting room, Zareth still knew better than to say out loud that hed been planning to meet with Rizoks secret collaborators right about now.

Im certain that any plans you have can be rescheduled, sir, Rizok said with a faintly amused expression. Perhaps for later this evening?

After he had finished designing and producing the Blood Sacks, Zareth had promptly handed them over to High Command and mostly put the matter out of his mind. The exact date of the militarys attack on FalAshar wasnt something that anybody could guess given the fluidity of the battlefield, so Zareth had turned most of his attention to research.

He had more priorities than just the war, which was unlikely to be resolved in the near future.

Particularly, he had been devoting most of his efforts to learning more about Divine Essence, the Etherveil, and the secrets contained within his visions. The first two because he had still yet to choose between [Ether Attunement] and [Divine Essence Attunement] for his next Skill, and the latter because his visions had mostly stopped since he dreamt about the Conclave burning down an ancient library.

Zareth had a strange sixth-sense that he wouldnt be receiving any further visions until he learned more about the last one. It was as if there was an inexplicable presence attempting to guide him down a particular path and was content to wait until he was ready to continue his journey. Zareth could tell that it wasnt Cerebon, as hed long grown familiar with the gods attention, so he assumed that it was just a product of [Atavistic Insight].

But regardless of where the feeling came from, it was an annoying itch in the back of his mind which Zareth would be glad to finally satisfy.

When his research failed to do so for more than a week, Rizok revealed that his collaborators, the Tessik, may be able to provide some assistance. Zareth had eagerly anticipated the chance to meet with an organization dedicated to preserving ancestral lizardkin heritage and knowledge.

They would surely have some valuable insights to share and would be much more pleasant than being called in by the local military dictatorship.

Thankfully, Rizoks response seemed to imply that the Tessik would have no problem rescheduling to after this meeting.

That sounds like a good idea, Rizok. Im glad that at least some people are mindful of other peoples time, Zareth said after breathing a sigh of relief that his plans for the day werent completely ruined.

Are you still upset about Vidhatri pestering you into teaching her your knowledge on biology? Rizok asked with a knowing expression.

If Zareth werent already slumped in his seat, he would have done so in exasperation at Rizoks mention of Vidhatri. Ever since the two of them had worked together on the Blood Sack and the zealot realized that Zareth knew more than her about biology in some specific instances, especially in regards to animals, she became incessant about learning what he knew.

In Vidhatris words, Acquiring knowledge of flesh in all its glorious forms is to show reverence to the Weaver of Sinews.

I dont mind teaching people, but I just wish that she could be a little less insistent, said Zareth, glaring at the lizardkin when Rizok let out a soft chuckle. Its not as if I dont have other things demanding my attention.

Well, this is your cult. You could always just tell her that youre busy, Rizok suggested.

I could, but Vidhatri has a very forceful presence about her that makes it difficult to say no outright, Zareth admitted, running a hand through his hair in frustration before a teasing smirk crossed his face. Something that Im sure youre very familiar with by now.

Unfortunately, Rizok had grown used to Zareth teasing him about this particular subject.

Are you jealous, Zareth? I wouldnt blame you if you were, Rizok said, his tone challenging as he raised a single-brow ridge. I believe most humans your age are supposed to be finding a mate, yet you spend all of your time focused on the cult. Perhaps you should take after Vidhatri and learn to have some fun.

Zareth rolled his eyes, but couldnt help the slight smile that tugged at the corner of his mouth. It had been a long time since anyone had teased him about being single, and he was glad that Rizok felt comfortable enough to do so. The lizardkin was pretty good company now that he wasnt so rigid all of the time.

Just as Zareth was about to tell Rizok that his life was already complicated enough without adding romance to the mix, he noticed the lizardkin suddenly tense.

Theyre about to arrive, said Rizok, clearly sensing someone with his [Aura of Greater Perception].

Zareth quickly straightened in his seat as Rizok took a position in the corner of the room, looking the picture of professionalism.

Not long afterwards, Garrison-Commander Tholin stepped into the room with several aides by his side. Zareth was faintly surprised that High Command had decided he would be meeting with the highest-ranking officer in TalQamar, rather than a lesser envoy.

Thank you for arriving on such short notice, said Garrison-Commander Tholin, his tone gruff as he took a seat on the other side of the table. If youre prepared, then let's begin.

Zareth had the impression that the dwarf wasnt the kind of person to waste time on formalities, so he quickly agreed. As expected, Garrison-Commander Tholin immediately began discussing the battle near FalAshar.

Zareth fought to keep his expression mild as he listened to Garrison-Commander Tholin detail the performance of his Blood Sacks and augmentation templates.

Zareth was a bit embarrassed when Tholin reported that they had some difficulty in stopping the Blood Sacks from producing the corrosive liquid after it had completed its purpose. He should have added in a kill switch to the design, so that it was usable by ordinary soldiers.

Still, the Blood Sacks had been quite successful in general.

Hed hoped that they would have a significant impact on the battlefield, but he hadnt believed that things would go as well as they did. High Command was crediting his Blood Sacks as the primary reason why they were able to either kill or capture a large portion of FalAshars military.

Admittedly, this could be attributed to the element of surprise that came with using a brand new weapon on the battlefield and that would lose effectiveness over time, but High Command was still very interested in receiving more Blood Sacks.

This was an opportunity, and Zareth had learned a long time ago to never let those pass him by.

Im glad to hear that High Command is satisfied with the performance of my cults contributions, Garrison-Commander Tholin, Zareth said with what he hoped looked like a sincere smile as he addressed the unimpressed dwarf on the other side of the table. Unfortunately, my cult can hardly afford the costs of the alchemical reagents necessary for so many Blood Sacks given the modest size of our budget.

Aye. Ive been told that your people seem to need alchemical reagents to do their work, though I dont see why, said Garrison-Commander Tholin, trailing off with obvious skepticism as if asking a question.

Zareth said nothing and continued to maintain his polite smile as the Garrison-Commander was given a stack of documents from his aide. According to TalQamars laws, he wasnt under any legal obligation to share the exact details of how his Skills functioned unless he was convicted of a crime or it was a matter of national security. Nobody, especially the members of the Great Houses, wanted the government to have too much insight into their unique capabilities.

That being the case, Zareth knew that the Garrison-Commander wouldnt attempt to force a more specific answer.

Sure enough, Tholin merely snorted before glancing toward the documents and continuing. According to the estimates that youve provided, each Blood Sack costs approximately ten silver in reagents. Is that correct?

It is, Zareth immediately confirmed. Rizok had told him that General Nasrith was well-known for despising corruption, so he had provided a completely accurate estimate of the costs.

Zareth gathered his resolve to haggle over the amount of funding that High Command would provide, determined to convince the Garrison-Commander of the necessity for further resources. His experience with High Command had always been that they preferred to only provide what was strictly necessary in terms of budget.

That was why Zareth had entered the luxury pet business and allied his cult with House Vhelan in the first place.

However, his determination was almost immediately replaced by confusion when he heard Garrison-Commander Tholins next response.

Very well. The Office of Resource Allocation will provide the Cult of Cerebon with funding for both the labor and materials necessary to produce Blood Sacks at 13 Silver each, Tholin said decisively, looking up at him with a sharp gaze. Is that acceptable?

Zareth was momentarily taken aback. The Garrison-Commanders first offer was actually higher than he would have settled for, generously paying three silver pieces in labor for less than ten minutes of work. That was a far better wage than any of his [Cultists] would have been able to earn on their own and would ensure that Zareth had no lack of people willing to spend their time making Blood Sacks.

Yes, Garrison-Commander, that is more than acceptable, Zareth replied after composing himself, deciding that he wouldnt push his luck and bargain for a higher amount.

Good. Then let's move on to the augmentation templates, Garrison-Commander Tholin said with a satisfied nod as another aide approached with a set of documents, this time handing them over to Zareth. Our [Strategists] have reviewed the performance of each template and compiled a set of observations and recommendations on how they may be improved.

Zareth felt as if hed suddenly returned back to his days as an intern and was being given a performance review by his supervisor. The formal and standardized approach of High Command wasnt something that he was used to experiencing in this world and threw him a bit off balance.

Reading through the documents, it became clear to him that High Command was fairly satisfied with the Mirage Stalker, but were seeking a few changes to both the Plaguebringer and the Bulwark templates. In addition, they were submitting a formal request to produce either a new template or some other bioweapon that could hasten their siege of FalAshar within the next few weeks.

High Command didnt actually know what was feasible for him to include in the templates, so they simply informed him which parts were less than optimal and what objectives they wanted to meet in the future. From there, it would be up to Zareths discretion to meet those objectives and present a set of options for them to test some time in the future before finally being deployed on the battlefield.

After giving it some thought, Zareth concluded that he didnt have a problem with any of High Commands requests so long as he received adequate compensation. As he was about to make that clear, Zareth noticed that the document already included a proposal for funding, and it was more than generous.

In fact, it was so generous that Zareth began to feel unsettled more than he felt appreciative.

Currying the favor of High Command had always been one of Zareths goals, but this development had come much faster than anticipated. Hed expected General Nasrith to maintain a much more neutral position.

Everything here seems acceptable, Zareth said slowly as he finished reading the documents. After a moment of thought, he decided that it would be a good idea to test the waters. Although, I have to admit that the financial support being offered is somewhat surprising to me

Garrison-Commander Tholin merely raised an eyebrow and replied in an even tone. Is it? High Command always rewards those who contribute significantly to our campaigns. This is nothing out of the ordinary for a project this important, and you can expect it to continue so long as your cult furthers the interests of TalQamar.

As he studied Tholin, Zareth felt a trace of confusion.

Am I wrong? Zareth wondered as he scrutinized the Garrison-Commanders stoic expression. Was it just a misunderstanding and High Command genuinely isnt treating me special?

Zareths understanding of how things worked led him to believe that Tholin should have already revealed what High Command would be expecting in return if there was any ulterior motive. Yet they seemed to be just offering him generous funding without any explicit conditions beyond what his cult was already doing.

The rest of the meeting continued in somewhat similar fashion, with discussions surrounding logistical details and Garrison-Commander Tholin being suspiciously accommodating. By the time the meeting was drawing to a close, Zareths paranoia had reached new heights. When Tholin stopped him just before he was about to leave, Zareth almost cheered in relief, certain that the Garrison-Commander was finally going to reveal whatever it was that High Command wanted.

Before you leave, there are a few documents which you might be interested in, said Tholin, gesturing toward an aide who stepped forward, holding a sealed envelope. I suggest that you read it thoroughly when you have a moment.

Something in Tholins tone told him that Zareth should heed his words. After reassuring the Garrison-Commander that he would review it as soon as possible, Zareth accepted the envelope with a nod and left the room with Rizok following close behind.

Glancing meaningfully at Rizok, Zareth felt his friend activate [Aura of Silence] to ensure nobody could eavesdrop on them before speaking.

I feel like that was strange, and Im fairly confident that it wasnt just my paranoia, Zareth said as they began to make their way out of High Commands headquarters.

Rizok nodded in agreement, his expression more solemn than before. Your instincts are likely correct. Feel free to read those documents whenever you like. Ill prevent anyone from spying while you do so.

Zareth nodded to his friend in thanks, trusting that Rizok would be able to do as he claimed. Still, Zareth waited until they were a safe distance away and found a relatively isolated alley before carefully opening the envelope and reading the documents within. Once he was about halfway through, Zareths eyes widened in surprise, and he hurried to finish reading before handing the documents to Rizok so the lizardkin could do so as well.

This is not what I expected, Rizok admitted, his tone distinctly confused after he finished reading the documents. General Nasrith is notorious for being impartial in matters of politics. That he would send even a discreet warning that the Circle of Ghisara is monitoring your cults activities is uncharacteristic of him.

Rizok winced as he patted the humans back, wanting to remind him to be respectful. Fortunately, the Lore Guardian seemed to be in a good mood and only chuckled.

As for the fire and the illusions, I would think you would recognize it given your recent interest in the Etherveil, Othrik responded, immediately drawing Zareths undivided attention.

Sensing the direction that the conversation was moving, Rizok decided that it was time he explained why he had arranged this meeting.

Lore Guardian Othrik, Ive brought Zareth here because he has been facing several mysteries that I believe only someone like you may be able to answer, Rizok said respectfully, interrupting before his companion could bombard the elder with every question that hed been recently dwelling over. Particularly, he is interested in learning more about the nature of the Etherveil and Divine Essence, as well as any information you may have about the Circle of Ghisara.

Despite his politeness, Rizok could tell that Othrik was still a bit reluctant about having an outsider in his home, which was natural given his role. In Rizoks experience, the best way to earn trust was to be blunt about these sorts of matters when possible and reveal your intentions from the beginning.

If youve ever heard of a Kethrsyssen, Id like to hear about that as well, Zareth eagerly added as he leaned forward in obvious interest, looking like the perfect image of a curious hatchling.

Zareth had consented to having the details of his vision shared with the Tessik so that they could attempt to research the matter, so the Lore Guardian was already well aware of the words context.

Othrik hummed in acknowledgment, but said nothing for several moments as he quietly assessed both Zareth and also Rizok. Although the human had agreed to ally himself with the Tessik, bringing him here was a significant show of trust on Rizoks part. The Lore Guardians were the very foundation of their organization, and any one of them being discovered by the Great Houses would be a disaster.

The Tessik would continue on as they had several contingencies in place for such an event, but it would still be a significant setback.

Rizok had been watching Zareth for quite some time now and had grown to trust him. While the human sometimes claimed to act in self-interest, Zareth had a stalwart sense of loyalty to those he considered his own and a fierce protective instinct. Rizok believed that Zareth would make for a truly valuable ally for his people if that bond could be fostered, and he hoped Othrik would be able to see that as well.

Ill assume that Rizok hasnt explained to you my role in our community, Othrik finally said, his expression not revealing anything as he tapped his fingers across the table. The authorities believe me to be a [Carer] who looks after our community's children. I am in fact a [Lore Guardian] who has devoted his life to preserving the ancient wisdom and secrets of our people. Rizok has taken a significant risk revealing my identity to you.

Everything that Lore Guardian Ohtrik had said so far was the truth, but the elders importance was even more significant than he implied.

In the past, the Tessik used to rely on [Lorekeepers] to preserve their ancestral knowledge. That was until the Great Houses eventually discovered this and began monitoring any lizardkin [Historians] in TalQamar, ensuring they didnt take the Class Evolution to become [Lorekeepers].

This one move nearly destroyed the Tessik entirely until one of their members discovered that [Lore Guardian] could also be acquired through the combination of [Carer] and [Instructor]. This was possible so long the individual demonstrated a deep commitment to preserving knowledge and imparting wisdom. Not only that, but acquiring the new Class awarded a truly powerful Crowning Skill that allowed the Tessik to successfully hide their survival from the Great Houses.

[Keeper of Knowledge] prevented any secrets shared by the [Lore Guardians] from being further disseminated without their permission. Any words, letters, or any other means of communication would become utterly indecipherable. This was why Rizok felt this meeting should take place face to face as Zareth would inevitably need to earn the trust of a [Lore Guardian] if he wanted to learn what he needed from the Tessik.

I understand the risk that Rizok has taken and how important it is that your people remain a secret, Zareth said solemnly, seeming to understand just how serious the situation was. I assure you, my intentions are only to protect my cult and learn what you have to teach me. Rizok isnt to blame for his decision to bring me here, and I will leave immediately if you believe Im a risk to your people.

Othrik was silent for several tense moments as he and Zareth locked gazes. Finally, the elderly lizardkin seemed to find what he was looking for and nodded in approval.

Rizok isnt the only member of the Tessik who has decided to join your cult. Ive heard good things about you from not only them, but also those familiar with your deeds in the Sunrise Slums, said Othrik, his expression losing its sharp edge and growing warmer. It is for this reason, and your friendship with Rizok, that I will choose to trust you. The Tessik have too few allies to reward those who approach us genuinely with suspicion.

Rizok let out a breath of relief as Zareth bowed respectfully to Lore Guardian Othrik.

Thank you. I appreciate the trust youve placed in me, said Zareth, hopefully genuine in his gratitude.

Youre welcome, young man. Now let us address the reason why youre here, said Othrik as he extended one of his aged hands. I believe many of your questions to be connected, and I believe the best place to begin is with the Etherveil. Please, take my hand.

Zareth did so after only a short moment of hesitation.

Rizok wasnt able to say anything before due to the effect of [Keeper of Knowledge], but he was actually more familiar with the Etherveil than most. While his Class didnt offer an equivalent to [Ether Attunement], being able to channel even the smallest sliver of Ether was necessary to activate any Pre-System enchanted items.

This was how Rizok had deactivated the illusionary enchantment on the Nephalan book he gave to Zareth despite not being a [Mage]. Modern enchanted items were simultaneously more restrictive and more prolific than their Pre-System counterparts, being usable by anyone but requiring a magical source such as a Sunstone.

Rizok could sense the magic flowing from Lore Guardian Othrik into Zareth, and watched as the humans expression lit up with awe.

What is this? It feels like Ive been connected to something boundless and ancient, Zareth said, voice filled with wonder. Its everywhere. I can sense its presence all around us, but it's hard to describe. Like a scent that I never noticed but which I somehow know has always been there.

That was a far more vivid description than when Rizok had experienced this same process. It had taken him multiple attempts before he was even able to sense the Etherveil even with the assistance of a Lore Guardian, yet Zareth had done so immediately.

What youre sensing is the Etherveil in its purest form, Othrik explained with the same encouraging smile he always wore when teaching. Its an ancient, boundless energy that has underlied the fabric of our world since far before the System came into existence. A source of power through which anyone is capable of performing magic. I suspect that your Class is similar to my own in that it offers a Skill which increases your proficiency in channeling the Etherveil. Even if you have yet to choose this Skill, it would explain why you are able to feel it so vividly.

That made sense to Rizok. [Lore Guardian] was similar in some respects to [Atavistic Apostle], at least in their shared focus on ancient knowledge. It made sense that they would share other commonalities as well.

I see. But why do so few people use the Etherveil? Zareth asked, his brows furrowed in confusion as he reluctantly released Othriks hand. Ive been told that its weaker and less efficient than wielding magic through the System, but I struggle to see how something so vast could ever be weak. Not to mention the fact that not everyone is a [Mage]. And how does the Etherveil relate to Divine Essence?

Zareth immediately released a deluge of questions that he had accumulated over several weeks of fruitless research. Othrik merely chuckled in amusement and began answering them one after another, seeming more than willing to share what he knew now that he felt Zareth could be trusted. Meanwhile, Rizok stood up to retrieve refreshments even as he paid close attention to the admittedly interesting conversation.

None of Zareths questions were ones that Rizok had ever thought to ask, which made this a learning experience for the both of them.

Apparently, the Tessik had managed to preserve stories from the time of the System War which heavily confirmed that while the Etherveil was as strong as ever, it had definitely become more difficult to channel the moment the System came into existence.

That carried worrying implications, and made Rizok wonder if those groups of anti-System lunatics knew more about the world than he expected.

Rizok also learned that even for Classes that offered Skills related to the Etherveil, mastering its use was a challenge on its own. However, Othrik still believed that doing so was worth the effort, especially for Classes like [Lore Guardian] or [Atavistic Apostle] which didnt access magic via the System and could benefit from the versatility.

Divine Essence was said to seep into the Etherveil from the domains of the various deities that existed throughout the world. Compared to Ether, it was significantly more potent and infused with the specific attributes of the deity from which it emanated. In addition, it was also believed to passively improve the bodies of anyone who channeled it, bringing them closer to the divine ideal represented by that deity.

This made it both more unique and more powerful, but also more restricted in its effects compared to Ether. Especially given that some deities considered it an insult if you used their Divine Essence without permission or in a way that conflicted with their ethos.

One did not wish to make an enemy of a god, as Cerebon had so thoroughly displayed to everyone in TalQamar.

The Etherveil is like the ocean. Vast, deep, and open to all who navigate its depths, Othrik was saying as Rizok returned with a plate of crispy Qahtani Beetles, a popular dish among lizardkin. Divine Essence, on the other hand, is akin to a mighty river flowing from a specific source. It has a direction, a purpose, and a distinct character shaped by the deity it originates from. As for how these differences manifest in practice, I have several scrolls which record specific examples that my people have encountered.

As Zareth absorbed this information, he absentmindedly ate one of the beetles and let out a hum of appreciation, much to Rizoks amusement.

He wondered how long it would take the human to realize what he was eating.

Interesting. That implies that if I were to choose [Divine Essence Attunement], that I could potentially access the abilities of gods other than Cerebon, Zareth mused as he chewed his snack. Is that why some gods form together into a pantheon, like the Conclaves gods? It would make sense if a group of gods agreed to allow each other's followers to access their Divine Essence if it meant strengthening their collective influence.

That would explain much about the few other pantheons that Ive encountered through my travels, said Rizok, offering his perspective for the first time since their conversation began. There have been a few occasions when I noticed a [Priest] wielding magic outside of their gods domain.

Indeed. Pantheons are difficult to maintain due to the disparate priorities of the gods, but are powerful on the occasions when they work cohesively, Othrik added as he shifted his attention to the plate of Qahtani Beetles. It is fortunate for us that the Tessik noticed signs of the Conclave falling into infighting prior to their removal from TalQamar.

Rizok hadnt known that, but it wouldnt surprise him. In the rare periods over the past few years when he was in TalQamar and not participating in a foreign war, the members of the Conclave barely seemed to interact with followers outside of their specific temples. It was sometimes difficult to believe that the Conclave had such a long history of communication and made him wonder what mutual interest had kept them together for so long.

A lull fell over the conversation as Zareth and Rizok digested the implications of everything they had learned, while Lore Guardian Othrik seemed content to enjoy his food. Zareth finally noticed what he had eaten and glared at Rizok, but otherwise said nothing as he turned his attention back to Othrik.

You said that all of my questions were related, but I dont see how, Zareth said, breaking the short period of silence. What does the Circle of Ghisara monitoring me have to do with the Etherveil or Divine Essence?

Hmph. Very little. It would be more accurate to say that I suspect from my readings that the word you heard in your vision, Kethrsyssen, is related to the Etherveil, and the Circle of Ghisaras interest in you is related to this word, Othrik slowly explained, though he seemed uncertain of his own conclusion. Kethrsyssen translates roughly in our tongue as Nexus of Magic. The Tessik hold vague references to places in the world where the Etherveil is particularly powerful, though we have no proof of their actual existence.

While that was only speculation, Rizoks instincts told him that the Lore Guardian was likely on the right track. Something like that would definitely be worth burning down an entire library to monopolize, as had happened in Zareths vision.

The Circle of Ghisara is a particularly troublesome group to the Tessik, Othrik said with a scowl, his eyes hardening. They are often the first to hoard any new scrolls about ancient history, and we go to exceptional lengths to protect ourselves from the sight of Seers. It would not surprise me if one of them saw your cult acquiring a scroll that they were interested in and decided to keep a close eye on your activities.

While Othrik didnt outright mention [Keeper of Knowledge] and the history of the [Lore Guardians], Rizok was smart enough to read between the lines. The elder clearly suspected the Circle of Ghisara of having been responsible for revealing them to the Great Houses in the past and blamed them for the Tessiks near destruction.

It was a bit humbling for Rizok to realize just how much of TalQamars history he was ignorant of, if he hadnt even been aware of this.

It also significantly increased the level of threat which he viewed the Circle of Ghisara to be in regards to the Cult of Cerebon. Zareth must have reached a similar conclusion, because his eyes once again hardened in the same way that they had earlier.

Then it seems that the Circle of Ghisara is a mutual enemy, Lore Guardian Othrik, said Zareth, his tone firm and decisive and he locked gazes with the elder. If we work together, it would be much easier to learn their true intentions and also discover the location of this Nexus of Magic that the Conclave is attempting to hide.

Othrik looked surprised for a moment, but soon let out a fierce grin and pushed Zareth to shake tails as a sign of their agreement.

Before long, Zareth was nestled in a corner fervently reading scrolls that covered a wide variety of topics, from the specific applications of Ether and Divine Essence to the various historical records that referenced anything resembling a Nexus of Magic.

It only took a few minutes for Zareth to become completely immersed in his research and completely forget that Rizok was in the same room, something he was rapidly growing accustomed to.

Interesting lad that youve brought to me, Othrik remarked as he joined Rizok, watching Zareth with open curiosity as the two of them enjoyed some tea on the other side of the room. He wont be able to bring any of these scrolls to that spire of his, of course, but I wouldnt mind him coming here to learn from me about history and the Etherveil. He would have made an excellent [Lore Guardian], had he been born a lizardkin.

Rizok agreed wholeheartedly, though he was somewhat surprised that Othrik felt the same way. He was fairly familiar with the Lore Guardian, and expected a much more difficult battle convincing him to trust Zareth.

Im glad to hear that, Lore Guardian. But I cant help but worry that theres a reason the Tessik seems so willing to share its knowledge with an outsider, Rizok said quietly, once again deciding it best to be direct. Am I wrong?

Always too perceptive for your own good, Othrik said with a sigh, glancing at Rizok with an exasperated expression as he took a sip from his tea. Youre not wrong, but theres no need for you to be concerned about it quite yet. Suffice to say, the Tessik dearly needs that young man to be successful in his ambitions. At least until he is successfully rewarded with his own plot of land. Otherwise, you would not have been able to take as many liberties as you had, regardless of whose son you were.

Rizok stiffened at the implied censure, but quickly forced himself to relax. Hed known that hed taken many risks regarding Zareth, but he still believed it was worth it.

Fortunately, Lore Guardian Othrik seemed to share his opinion.

So for now, theres no need to worry. Thanks to you and the boy, our people have finally found the opportunity weve been waiting for, said Othrik, turning his gaze back to Zareth as a hint of steely resolve grew in his eyes. Whether it's regarding his contributions to the war, his interest in ancient knowledge, or whatever other ambitions come his way, the Tessik will aid him. And he will repay us in return.

Rizok could tell that the Lore Guardian meant that partially as a threat, implying consequences if the Tessik werent given what they were promised in return. If that were to happen, Rizok would likely also face consequences as the one to reveal the Tessik to Zareth. However, he wasnt overly worried. The human had never shown any signs of being the type of person to go back on his word.

I have no doubt that he will, Lore Guardian Othrik, said Rizok, reaffirming his decision to trust Zareth.

Othrik studied him for several moments before nodding decisively and standing from his seat, his genial smile reappearing as if it had never left. Im glad to hear that. How about I go get us a few more beetles? Theyre truly lovely during this time of the year.

As Othrik left, Rizok found himself releasing a breath he hadnt realized that he was holding. While he was many times stronger than Lore Guardian Othrik, the man still had a formidable presence in his own right and was a high-ranking member of the Tessik for a good reason.

Directing his gaze back to Zareth, who was still completely engrossed in his research, Rizok hoped that he had made the right decision in tying his own fate to the humans.