Chapter 136: Magic 1

Chapter 136: Magic 1

TL: Etude

Ahchoo!

Paul, seated on horseback, sneezed and pulled out a handkerchief to wipe his nose, wrapping his coat tightly around himself. As November set in, the weather was growing increasingly colder.

I must open a dedicated passenger river transport service once the shipyard builds more boats. Ill call it the Public Transport Ship, he mused aloud.

These boats could ply the Weiss River, allowing anyone to board for just a copper or two and disembark at their destination.nove(l)bi(n.)com

On days like today, thered be no need to brave the cold outside. With a small stove lit inside the cabin, passengers could warm themselves while enjoying the riverside scenery. Wouldnt that be wonderful?

Paul enthusiastically shared his idea with those around him.

What a brilliant idea, sir! Victor, the captain of the guard, offered timely flattery.

Paul glanced at Ladi, the female advisor beside him, feeling a bit disappointed as she seemed completely disengaged from his discussion, remaining alert and watchful of their surroundings.

With a resigned gesture to the captain, Paul said, Ah, shes been like this since we left Lakeheart Town this morning.

Scratching his head, Victor commented, Well, sir, I think Miss Ladis high vigilance is correct, although its a bit unusual for a young lady.

When Paul decided to visit Port Fran, Ladi volunteered to accompany him, initially leading Paul to think she needed a break. However, her reasoning was quite peculiar:

Lord Count, I did a divination for you. You might encounter some troubles on the road! Its just a possibility, but better safe than sorry. Please let me accompany you; my skills from my adventurer days might be useful.

Divination? Was she serious? Despite her status as a scholar, she believed in such things. Yet, seeing her genuine concern for his safety, Paul agreed to her request.

Why didnt you just advise me against the trip then?

The divination showed that staying in Lakeheart Town wouldnt avoid the misfortune either.

Uh okay.

So, you are Paul Grayman? Ha! This is easier than expected. I didnt think Id encounter you en route, saving me a trip to Lakeheart Town.

Though not loud, his voice carried clearly to everyones ears.

Ladi, the female advisor, immediately stepped in front of Paul, her brows furrowed, staring intently at the newcomer. Lord Count, be prepared for some strange occurrences, she warned.

Confused but certain of the strangers malintent, Paul grew anxious, especially since the lone figure seemed to exert a pressuring aura despite being outnumbered.

Victor, infuriated, ordered, Guards, seize this insolent man!

The man had not only addressed the lord by name but also spoke arrogantly, treating the count like a mere object, showing utter disrespect to both Paul and his captain.

Three soldiers rushed forward. The cloaked man stood still as two soldiers grabbed his arms, and a third began to tie him up. As they tried to force his arms behind his back, the situation suddenly escalated.

With a swift motion, the cloaked man grabbed the necks of the two soldiers and smashed their heads together against his chest. Their skulls collided, caving in as brain matter splattered.

Dropping the lifeless bodies, the cloaked man shook his head, Tsk! My new clothes are dirty again! His tone was casual, as if he had just swatted two insignificant insects.

Licking the brain matter from his lips, he added chillingly, But, this feeling its been too long.

The remaining soldier, witnessing his comrades deaths, was too terrified to move, collapsing to the ground, trembling, and staring at the man as if he were a demon from hell.

First squad, protect the count! Second squad, with me! Victor barked orders, snapping to action.

One squad encircled Paul and Ladi, who was muttering something under her breath, swords and knives ready in all directions. The other squad, led by Victor, advanced towards the cloaked man.

The man, continuing towards Paul, began making strange gestures with his right hand while chanting incomprehensible words.

Stone Skin he uttered clearly.

At that moment, Ladi ceased her whispering, pausing briefly before saying softly, Full concentration

Paul felt something stirring at his chest. Looking down, he saw a stone pendant quivering, its once grey surface slowly darkening