《Ascension of Singularity》 C1 - Descent of a Post Human (A/N : This section is a one way telepathy of existing Post-Human to the MC) Out of twenty billion humans living in our world¡­. you were chosen. Out of twenty billion thoughts¡­. you were enlightened. No longer chained by flesh! No longer locked by desires! No longer limited by lifespan! No longer restrained by death! Your decree¡­. will move the tenth earth. Your will¡­. shall shake the ninth heavens. Exploring pristine worlds¡­with a single thought. Shaping new worlds¡­ with a single whim. You are¡­ our ambassador to the stars. You are¡­ our representative to myriad of worlds. Prove yourself¡­befitting of a Post Human. Exceed all of those before¡­and those after you. Let the mortals and the universe know. Make them sing praises and tremble in awe! You are¡­beyond Humanity. You are¡­ Post Human.
Streaks of thunder broiled the clouds above. Lightning interweaved between the dark heavens. Rain pelted the darkened earth and turbulent winds were howling about. Kacha! Thunder continued to detonate in the skies, connecting the tenth earth and ninth heaven. An oppressive force unlike any other loomed above. Most of the desert creatures here whimpered away and scampered into hiding. Shew, shew, shew! Pillars of light spilled from the heavens and tore through the dark clouds! Auspicious tones of ascension started to flutter, like an immortal descending to bless these badlands! The curtain of light grew bigger and dwarfed the thunder domain. An object seemingly made out of Immortal Gold descended in the center. It scattered the gloomy clouds and dispersed heavenly might of lightning. Then the Sun became clearer, gracing these scorched badlands again. The shiny object eventually lost its brilliant luster and became dull. It was indistinct and turned no different than random rocks in these sandy wilderness. Crack¡­.crack, crack, crack! What was this spherical object? It descended like an immortal but now rapidly splitting into two. The sound of the sphere breaking up attracted some of previously hidden creature to come and investigate. Most of them were pint and feeble. But such was life in these badlands, no natural luck to be found. Great desolate plains stretched as far as eyes can see. It was a world of full golden sands and random pieces of weathered sandstones. The first critter to arrive near the sphere was a desert rat. It was sickly and coated with sand. It chittered loudly to warn any potential competitors. The furry rat saw all prior events and felt the broken sphere calling to it. The object was summoning the rat over, trumping the rat¡¯s own desires. It decided to abandon all caution and sped along, feeling some might try to grab the sphere first. Could this be finally a natural luck for the rat, allowing it to leave its wretched life? ¡°Shaarrrrr!¡± A desert viper arose from the sands. It bared its yellowish fangs, to deter the rat from moving forward. Like the rat, the viper was mysteriously attracted to the sphere as well. The sand coloured viper was no different than the rat, about to shrivel up and die. ¡°Kikiki, kiki!¡± The desert rat stood its ground and found sudden bravery. Adrenaline pumped through the rat¡¯s body. Something was telling it to fight! Kill this desert snake, tear it apart! Kill this serpent, drink its blood! The rat jumped and dodged the vicious viper attacks. Sudden burst of power also exploded from the viper. Mere prey wants to disturb the natural order! The desert snake got furious since the rat dared to fight back, to snatch the sphere away! The desert rat thrashed the serpent¡¯s tail, the viper stripped bits of flesh from the rat¡¯s legs. Their duel of death kicked up column of dust and relayed much shrieks and hissings. Peng! Unfortunately, as the mantis stalk the cicada, it was unaware of the oriole behind it! A blood-encrusted spike chopped the viper into half and a bone stubble smashed the rat¡¯s head into bloody paste. ¡°Cough¡­.cough...¡± A badly mangled mortal killed both critters. Bits of dried blood fell from the mortal¡¯s skin as dusty winds howled past. The mortal felt the call of the sphere but hunger placed first. What natural luck to be had if one was mere inches from the grave? It was not clear where did this mortal came from; their clothes tattered beyond recognition. No left hand can be seen on the mortal, just a mere bone stubble on top of the dead rat. Previous storm had threw some light rain, preventing this ailing mortal from sleeping for good. The mortal suffered terrible injuries with some old and others recent. This being was shorter than half of a zhang. Food was hard to come by in these barren lands as only sand and rocks were plentiful. The fight between the rat and viper provided the mortal with a chance to eat them both. The short human collapsed next to the broken sphere, no energy truly left. Fresh blood started to flow from the rat, viper and then the mortal. The mortal gasped for air, unwilling to resign to fate. Just before the mortal closed their eyes, the broken sphere lifted off the ground. Hummm¡­.. Two halves of the sphere were humming as silvers of light snaked out from them. They struck the mortal but the mortal had long left the world of living at this point. Wriggling silvery light continued to burrow deep inside this husk, not allowing the body to drop. This construct¡­is your sole connection to this world, my child. Fortify your gains¡­solidify your connection. You are a transcendent, you are a Post Human. Claim this world and let the mortals shock in awe! The tangling mess of light continued to pierce the mortal¡¯s former body, weaving and changing. Some of the lights scattered, penetrating nearby corpse of the desert rat and viper. Pieces of glowing rectangles appeared as if rewinding time and removing injuries from now deceased human. Nearby dust and rocks coaxed into wisps of brown, transformed by the strings of light into new clothes. This body was no longer like before and possessed an otherworldly aura. Bundles of brown hair grew from the head, mysterious powers expanding withered flesh. If anyone saw this transformation, they would undoubtedly shock out of their minds. This was simply devilish, going against natural dao of the heavens! From a half living corpse to an exuberant youth. This newcomer had vacant eyes, tinted with golden colour of the sands. Memories were extracted from the former owner of the body, replicating almost all of it perfectly. The youth had skin close to warm jade, largely hidden underneath a protective cloak. Clothes fluttering as if this youth was a sage undergoing rebirth against the cycle of Samsara. A blunt dagger and a leather pouch strapped to the youth¡¯s belt while a white turban adorned the flowing hair. This youth seemed neither a boy or a girl, as if it was a doll carved by the gods. Closer inspection will give an unsettling feeling, as if the abyss stares back to whom that gaze upon the abyss. The broken sphere was no longer to be seen. The youth tried to move about, only to tumble a few times. Clearly whatever that had occupied the mortal¡¯s husk was a bit unfamiliar with the controls of the restored body. ¡°Kushaaa!!!¡± A sand cat pounced the youth from behind with saliva dripping from its mouth.This cat was about the same size as the youth. Its furs were the colour of the sand, making it almost invisible against the background. It viewed this youth like a newborn foal, a piece of meat served on a silver platter. Keqiang! Either by sheer luck or coincidence, the youth managed to swing a dull dagger and countered the cat¡¯s claws. The sand cat was taken aback at first but continued its charge. How come a pathetic human can match its superior speed? The cat swiped left and right, wanting to decapitate this youth! If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. ¡°Kahhh!!!¡± The youth let out a scream on reflex, the cat leaving some lacerations! Same amount of viciousness arose from the youth¡¯s vacant eyes, wishing to tear this cat apart! The youth finally rebounded with equal vigour to engage the cat in close combat. ¡°Grarrr!!!¡± At cost of a bloody arm, the youth hacked the cat¡¯s tail away. This made the cat growl in anger but at the same time it felt some dread. This human isn¡¯t easy to deal with¡­. After split-second decision the cat rapidly backed away, unwilling to fight to the death. It was better to preserve own life, to fight in another day! The sand cat was right in its judgement; after the brawl, injuries on the youth slowly recovered where splattered blood and chipped flesh flowed in reverse. The youth returned to initial muddleness, unsure what to do. In the hand of the mortal was the cat¡¯s decapitated tail, sticky with blood. The youth chomped on the fuzzy tail to investigate its texture. It was like chewing an old rubber, taste quite terrible. Other desert creatures that saw the fight immediately dispersed and unwilling to offend this youth. Was this still a human or a beast in shape of a human? The youth then spit the tail away whilst picking some galloping sounds at the horizon. Who were heading toward the youth? The sounds grew closer and closer, from bestial howls to shouts of mortals. The youth recognized some of the noise where sneers and disdains were heard. ¡°What do we have here! A young boy? Or a girl? What are you doing out here, alone? Guehehehehe!¡± There were five scaled beasts, ridden by same amount of men in tattered and dusty clothing. These obsidian-coloured mounts were bigger than the sand cat, possessing rows of sharp teeths and claws. Their riders gave the youth various expressions from murderous to lecherous. This made the youth remember something; these beast riders were part of various desert marauders that pillaged and swept through human settlements in these forsaken lands. They were just as animal as their tamed beasts, raping and eating to their heart''s content. ¡°What? Too scared to speak? No matter, us brothers will give you some good time! Gahahahaha!!!¡± One of the riders brandished a rusting pike in attempt to push the youth down while others covered most paths of escape. Since the vacant-eyed youth was shorter than half of zhang in height, the pike missed its target. Nevertheless it ripped bits of the youth¡¯s clothing. ¡°Wow, what a feisty beauty! You must be great in bed!¡± The youth¡¯s warm jade-like shoulders was briefly exposed, stoking the raiders¡¯ lust. They decided to jump out of their mounts in order to close the distance. Their companion beasts followed as well, jaws gaping and growling galore. ¡°It is over for you¡­little girl! Come to papa!¡± The leader, with his larger stature and bulkier muscles from the rest thrusted his sabre forward. Sadistic smile grew on his face, wanting to cripple, rape and, then feed this youth to his pet beast! He can imagine it now, the youth begging for mercy, moaning in pain and, screaming in terror! The sabre connected but it was not what the leader had initially expected. For some unknown reason, his weapon missed the youth¡¯s arm and instead struck the youth¡¯s cloak. Is this wench some kind of hidden master? Must be a fluke! The leader then barked his orders to his minions. The raiders had seen a fair share of such called ¡®experts¡¯, wishing to overturn the wastelands with mountains of arrogance. But for these damned lands, different rules apply. Only the wittiest and most vicious can survive! Young masters sheltered from brutality of these badlands were no different than birds in glass houses! They coordinated their attacks to trap the youth from running away. Although somewhat chaotic, it was clear that these marauders had practiced together to gang on their victims. Their beasts on the other hand lashed their powerful spiked tails at the youth. Swish! Keqiang! Thud! This youth they encountered was surely something different. The youth, the marauders and the tamed beasts had exchanged ten of moves now with none gaining absolute advantage over the other. Most of the attacks were either parried or evaded in nick of time. ¡°Smelly brat! Stop dodging!¡± The second in command of the raiders, a scrawny man with ragged beard jumped directly at the youth. This ¡®young master¡¯ was simply hateful! Is this some kind of joke?!! He intensified the pressure of attacks, gradually shrinking the space available to the youth. Rip!!! Splash! Another piece of clothing was torn away, this time dragging out the leather pouch. A thin line of red can be seen on the youth¡¯s abdomen, the scrawny raider drawing first blood! This made his friends and pet beasts frenzied to another level. ¡°Gahahaha!!! Brat, you are nothing much!!!¡± More attacks made physical contact, staggering the youth! Additional shreds of cloths flew in the winds, more beads of bloods streaming out! The marauders became even more emboldened, they were close to finishing this troublesome ¡®young master¡¯. At some point of the battle, the dagger in the youth¡¯s hands was flung away thanks to the third raider. Injuries started to pile on the youth, chunks of flesh hacked away. The marauders¡¯ beasts howled to the skies after they tasted the youth¡¯s flesh! Chup, swish, pluff! All five weapons of marauders are now embedded on the youth, stopping any movements. However, the youth¡¯s eyes remained vacant. The leader of the raiders felt uneasy on the inside. Was it truly easy? What the hell is going on? He snorted, sending his minions and pet beasts back to make some space. Shew, swish, shew! Silvery lights erupted from the youth, stabbing toward all of the assailants! The leader was the first to be attacked but his response was fast, jumping backwards in time. Other parts of the raid team responded as well, evading or trying to block the lights. ¡°What¡­what devilish art!¡± The leader was certain that this youth had majority of limbs paralyzed but there was this surprise! More snakes of light erupted. Some of them homed on the beasts, stitching them to the ground. Another bundle bored through rest of the marauders¡¯ weapons and then penetrated the wielders with no suspense. ¡°Keuk!!! B-b-boss!! S-s-save me!!! AHHHH!¡± The lights drilled into them, going into all of their seven apertures. Their beasts shuddered and convulsed as similar streaks of light burrowed through their bodies. Only the leader was able to escape unscathed, his vast experience and intuition foretold something was seriously wrong. ¡°Shit! What the hell was that thing?!!!¡± The brawny raid leader opened his legs, swiftly departing from this place. He could hear screams and pleadings from his mates. It had never occurred to him today, karma is going after him and his group! ¡°Fuck, I kicked a steel board this time! Is that monster still chasing me?!!¡± The only survivor of the ordeal panted heavily after exhausted from running for his dear life. He had never seen such kind of human before¡­or any beast like it. It was stupendous, it was strange, it was bizarre. Was it an enigmatic overlord that descended upon these badlands? Or some kind of eldritch horror that decided to snack on mortals? ¡°Uh¡­I-I am¡­s-s-sorry¡­I promise I will atone for my sins! Spare me!¡± The raid leader was once full of confidence but now he was pissing in his pants. He didn¡¯t catch any glimpse of his brothers. He saw the youth walking to him, strangely bereft of any injuries or torn clothes. A pair of eyes tinted with golden colour of sand greeted the remaining raider. ¡°Oh mighty Lord! This lowly one didn¡¯t see Mount Tai! This slave begs for your forgiveness!¡± The marauders¡¯ leader got on all fours and lowered his head. He witnessed the same sinister lights that struck down the rest of his group. They slithered on the hot sands and crept up to him. Then upon his very eyes, he saw his own body disintegrating into the silvery lights! It was done in all but in a flash; the leader didn¡¯t even get to scream and vanished without a trace. In front of the marauders¡¯ leader kneeling spot was the youth, staring at now empty space. No one knew what were the youth¡¯s thoughts and what secrets laid deep in the youth¡¯s vacant eyes. C2 - A Butcher or a Saviour? The Sun had crossed one of few rocky outcrops here. It was a few hours past noon yet the sweltering heat was stubborn, clinging upon these golden dunes of sand. Trade winds brought nothing more than grit and abrasive sands, stealing moisture from anyone it can. ¡°...nuza...nuZAkeMO...nAmOZ...name.¡± A lone soul no taller than half a zhang braved unrelenting waves of heat. This place was truly harsh, with the Sun shining ever brightly without mercy. From afar, the lone human differed little from a child, perhaps ten in age. Such child drifted aimlessly from one place to another. ¡°MiR...myzKA..my name is..mYNaMoK...my name is...AVa-aVe-Ava. My name is...Ava.¡± The child broke a thin smile as if achieved something. The Post-Human consciousness in the body chose Ava after sifting through memories from now deceased previous owner of the body. Ava was one of many names used by mortals for myriad of deities they worship in this realm. My child, every time we use our transcendant abilities, we consume quanta. Your connection can only periodically transfer a set amount. My child, secure a way to generate more quanta. Do not lose your construct. It is your sole connection to this world. The Post-Human that made Ava possible, once again provided some guidance. Due to sheer remoteness of Ava¡¯s connection, the voice was cut short. There was no telling when another stream can be opened. Ava was left with no choice and must resolve the issues alone. This is truly a difficult problem; as quanta is needed for every Post-Human powerful ability, lack of it will severely limit them. Ava had wasted some to repair the broken body and after activating [Disintegration], one of basic abilities for all Post-Humans to date. Nevertheless Ava had determined it was worth the cost, gaining a somewhat stable anchor to this world while [Disintegration] provided raw resources and additional information. It seemed that a female appearance gave better results to attract natives, saving time to search for them. However a human body is quite frail indeed; thanks to the harsh desert environment, Ava kept using quanta to keep the body in optimal state. Perhaps if biological needs of the body are attended to, less quanta would be required? Ava determined acquiring biomatter and water should be far more easier than trying to generate new quanta. Insofar thanks to her present form, the natives were quite cooperative to deliver themselves for [Disintegration]. A necessary expense of quanta to carry out her plans. ¡°Hii!!! Spare this lowly one! This slave is willing to serve Mistress!!!¡± ¡°....¡± That was another marauder converted to convenient mass. She adopted a different appearance this time, soft and curved in some places, untainted innocence and face arranged to golden ratio of perfection. Little the marauders know that this was no aloof fairy but something else. Keqiang! Ava shifted to her left, her dagger deflecting an iron bolt. Apparently these marauders are smarter than the rest. She kicked backwards, pushing a sneaking raider that wanted to bind her from behind. Some of the surviving raiders had escaped and brought their friends here. ¡°I never thought Majek could¡¯ve be done by a tiny bitch! Blood will be paid with blood! Slaves, surround her! Archers, make her into a beehive!¡± Multiple humans and beasts emerged from nearby sand dunes. Some were running, some jumped around and some were on all fours. All of them looked half-dead, carrying random weapons and wore black-coloured collars. Ava found herself besieged on all sides. ¡°Aiieee!!! Kill me, kill me, kill me please!¡± ¡°Aaaaaa¡­.aaaaaaa¡­.aaaaaaa!¡± ¡°Graarrr!!!¡± More one-inch thick bolts flew at her, all intended to kill. A portion of the bolts missed and struck some unfortunate slaves instead, killing them instantly. The archers kept their distance on horseback, using big crossbows that are actually intended to kill vicious Red Scorpion monsters. Swish! Peng! Thud! Ava used her short height to her advantage, rolling and jumping between the berserk slaves. At the same time she took action, swiftly decapitating anyone that was within her reach. For ones that weren¡¯t, she either lashed pinpoint kicks or deflected them with her tiny hands. ¡°Boss! This wench is crafty! We can¡¯t hit her! Fuck, the bitch throwing heads at us too!¡± ¡°Fuck, you¡¯re all useless! Slaves, keep her busy! Let¡¯s see how she likes my Wind Scimitar!¡± The leader was a fat man clad in dark brown armour on horseback. His acne-infested face threw a vulgar smile to Ava. At first Ava paid this tube of lard no attention but when his weird weapon had bisected an unlucky slave from afar, she quickly broke out of the encirclement. This sword seemed to possess some mystical properties, able to deliver invisible shockwaves that cut through bones and steel alike. Whatever it was, it wouldn¡¯t be wise to be on the receiving end. Ava¡¯s swiftness enabled her to evade it but it was different for the mad slaves. ¡°Uhh Boss! Stop! AHHHH!!!! MY LEG!!!¡± ¡°Smelly brat! Archers, are you stupid or what! Keep your fucking distance from her!¡± The fat man grew increasingly furious. Not only he failed to deal any damage, Ava¡¯s timely evasions caused him to cut down his own men too. Blood splashed high to the skies, limbs went flying! Ava knew she can¡¯t counter the group thanks to her height and so she baited the leader. ¡°Courting death! Taste full power of this scimitar!¡± He withdrew a grey-coloured stone and slammed it on his scimitar. The effects weren¡¯t clear at first until Ava saw a sand dune next to her blasted into two. The weird stone must be some sort of amplifier or a booster. She can¡¯t dodge forever since it was way stronger than before. Thinking in parallel as inherent in all Post-Humans, she decided close quarters combat might be the only choice. The scimitar had too large of attack range and she did not have the luxury of dodging both the shockwaves and incoming crossbolts. ¡°That¡¯s it, charge to me! I will rip your clothes, rape you and stab you a thousand times over!¡± The fat man barked orders to his men to make space. He grew increasingly arrogant when he saw Ava was directly charging toward him. What can a little child do in face of brute strength? Nothing! If he can only grab her...he would make her think death is a sweet release! Unfortunately this is what Ava was aiming for. [Disintegration] can be only used in a short distance and that blob of fat discarded his only advantage, powerful ranged attacks. True to his prediction, Ava jumped straight to his embrace...what came next however were howls of pain. ¡°AHHHH!!!! MY ARMS!!!¡± The bandit leader didn¡¯t get to enjoy her soft body. Starting from his arms, his body started to disintegrate millimeter by millimeter! A blinding flash of silver later, what left of the fat man and his horse was his scimitar that was still glowing grey. ¡°Ahhh!!! Even Vetjar was killed! Run!¡± The raiding group immediately broke into chaos now that its leader was erased by Ava. The surviving slaves entered stupor after their master was killed. The horseback archers fled in all directions, wishing to escape from this terrifying monster. She picked up the scimitar. ¡°Fuck! She have the scimitar too!¡± No horseback archers were spared; Ava swung the scimitar a few times, hitting all of them. Some were sliced into two, others diced into bloody meat chunks. The sword however crumbled afterwards, perhaps unable to withstand its boosted power. She ignored the standing slaves and moved toward the corpses of the archers. Her burning curiosity led to her biting into some of the meat chunks. For slaves that were awake...it was like witnessing a man-eating monster in action. Except that monster was in a form of a little girl. ¡°Kill me...kill me...please!¡± One of more particularly sane slaves kowtowed and wailed at Ava. It was an old man with a hunched back. He wished nothing more than be released from this torment. While others might view Ava as a butcher, the old man saw her as a saint. A swift death would be sweet for him. ¡°...Why? Old human deemed not a threat. Old human is specimen. Preserve specimen.¡± ¡°Please...please I beg you, Young Miss! This old man had lost everything...no life, no wife, nothing! Please, please let me die!¡± It was like a bursting dam. With the bandit leader gone, previous magical inhibitions on slaves like him lost their effects. All of his memories came at once; under his enslavement...the marauders made him do terrible things. Things that he wished to die a thousand times to atone. Ava found this situation puzzling. Why would a lifeform willingly throw its life away? It just doesn¡¯t make any sense. As she was processing her thoughts, more slaves joined the old man. They too wished that they were better off actually dead than be a living dead. ¡°Oh saviour¡­.death is the only thing that can release us! Just kill us, we attacked you, we¡¯re guilty too!¡± This situation went to a weird direction. It did not comply with Ava¡¯s previous information. Life generally fears death but these people don¡¯t. What is going on? Perhaps those collars were the cause? This world had too many unknowns to the Post-Human. The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement. For the first time after being uplifted as a Post-Human, Ava had finally found her first dilemma. Is killing lifeforms when they asked for it, is necessary? All these while she maintained that lifeforms kill for the sake of survival after observing creatures of the desert here. Not salvation. The old man willingly moved to Ava, lifting her tiny bloodied hands and putting it on his neck. His skin was rough from age, no head hair to be seen and half missing tooths. The old man crouched and took a deep breath, closing his eyes. ¡°Why, old human? Why not live? Kill to live. I killed fat man, you live. Old man have less than zero percent chance to threaten this construct.¡± Ava¡¯s golden eyes glistened in the twilight. With her squeaky voice, she declared her opinion. Other slaves that broke their stupor had closed their eyes like the old man, as if waiting for a Buddha to invite them to Buddhist Kingdom. One of the slaves broke their collective trance. ¡°Young Noble...please give this jade slip to my friend...tell her that I will meet her in our next lives..please take it. Young Noble can eat my body as the payment.¡± This man¡¯s action was imitated by others that claimed the same, all piling whatever item they had on them. Their actions further puzzled Ava. These random pieces of stuff seemed to signify something. Why should she bother? As if her mind was read, the old man spoke up. ¡°Please. We cannot kill ourselves due to these collars, Young Miss. We only know the way to remove it is by death. We had suffered long enough... Cut our heads..that will release us.¡± The old man was right; even though they were rendered into bag of bones, missing limbs and others, the collars forcibly retained their lives, not dying. Even if they try to kill themselves, the collars magically prevented them from doing so. It was literally a living hell. Ava gave them one last look and decided to comply with their request. If she left them alive, other creatures would kill them instead. Perhaps they can find solace that they will be instantly killed rather than being chewed alive by other monsters. The killings were swift.
Ava had processed all traces of the scene, no speck of blood or chuck of flesh to be seen. Free resources should not be wasted. Nevertheless prior events had left some impression on the Post-Human consciousness. A lower being may willingly die, contrary to the natural order. While it may be a trifling matter for ascended beings like Ava, her parallel logics hinted at an opportunity. These mortals had some kind of prompts and interactions. Entertaining them might grant new information that are vital to her original goal of world¡¯s conquest. The Post-Human shell no longer wandered in random directions but instead specific. Processing new resources granted her some understanding of these badlands. The bandits were predators, the former slaves were preys. While predators roam, preys hide and build. These lower beings formed society, hierarchy and solidarity. One attractive information was that they built primitive structures and claimed lands from these oceans of sand. They were known to be villages or cities and they would undoubtedly rife with information and materials. If she can get her hands on that scimitar again or something like it, she may be able to find a way to resolve the quanta problem. The memories she gained from the slaves pointed out larger settlements can somehow make such strange contraptions in a large scale. Such objects seemed to defy her common sense as a Post-Human. Maybe the mysterious energies circulating in them could be harnessed somehow. Ava calculated the stars and headed to a certain direction. She saw increasing amount of people converging to a direction. She learnt some customs of this world; wanderers came in all shape and manners. No one can tell whether a wanderer is a hidden expert or not and thus people of the desert usually respect limits. Mimicking a wanderer should put her at some advantage, giving her time to adapt. She maintained her silence and gave curious glances all over. There were merchant caravans, horseback guards, beasts of burden and scattering amount of wanderers. She naturally followed them as they coincidentally headed to her next destination, City of Kazar. ¡°Blessed upon you, wanderer. New to these sands?¡± Ava turned her head to the side. The voice owner was a middle-aged woman, buried in a cloak like herself. Next to the middle-aged woman was her donkey, pulling her wares and trinkets. Ava tried to guess her intentions. Perhaps taking an appearance of a little girl was quite unusual? ¡°No. Ava lives here. Ava wanders.¡± ¡°I see. I am Herla, a wandering merchant of trinkets. Are you seeking to enter Kazar?¡± ¡°Yes. Ava wishes to look for beautiful blades.¡± The Post-Human decided Herla might worth the time to interact. Ava showed her dagger to Herla, it was dull but well polished and sturdy. This interaction could bore some results, to understand these human beings and Kazar better. ¡°I can see this dagger is well loved. Here, Sister will give this necklace for free since you¡¯re cute.¡± ¡°Ava understands and expressed gratitude. Can Sister Herla explain Kazar?¡± ¡°Kazar is one of many great cities developed by As-Salta the Second. Little sister had come to the right place, we sell swords and bladed weapons in Kazar. From scimitars to flaming magical swords!¡± Herla continued her talk with much enthusiasm as they went their way to the City. The grand pillars of Kazar gradually came into view, distinctive trademark of the prosperous city. Stacks of coloured smokes seldom billowed upwards, emanating from many forges of Kazar. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s been fun to talk to you, Ava. Merchants like Sister Herla needed to queue somewhere else. Continue yours. Blessed travels to you.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Blessed be to Sister Herla.¡± Ava gave Herla a curt bow and watched her entering a different line. So the City of Kazar had different entry points for different visitors. The line that Ava queued upon was the most diverse, with lifeform of all shapes and sizes. Some were two zhang creatures, others shorter than her. What the badlands had plenty apart from sand were deadly monsters and so various civilized creatures decided to be hunters of fortune in these lands. They stake their luck to either hunt the monsters themselves or handle or purvey various parts of such vicious beasts. Kazar¡¯s forgesmiths happened to require these monster parts for their craft and thus a partnership was born. The line for non-merchants was faster as the visitors do not have to undergo cargo inspection. Before she knew it, she was next to Kazar¡¯s gates itself. An armed male guard decked in leather armour and a sabre tied to his left beckoned Ava to enter the transit room. The room was a few zhang in dimension, flanked with several armed guards. Evidently security is quite tight around here. ¡°So...what is your name, little girl? Where do you came from?¡± ¡°My name is Ava. Ava comes from the desert.¡± The guard captain interviewing her was more mellow. He had a papyrus paper on the table, scribbling anything that she said. From the desert...is she some kind of noble in incognito? Her reply did not surprise him in the slightest as he had seen stranger things before. ¡°Young Miss...I¡¯m sorry but we need some kind of insurance if one doesn¡¯t want to reveal their place of origin. Do you have any proof of identification?¡± ¡°Identification?¡± ¡°Identification so we can know it¡¯s you, Young Miss. Maybe a token or a family heirloom?¡± The guard captain withdrew some examples and put them on the table for Ava to see. This girl might be a runaway noble alright. One was a round token with complex inscriptions, another a ceremonial short sword. Ava examined them with her small hands in great detail. ¡°Will this do?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry but this doesn¡¯t seem that different than ordinary dagger. Do you have a token like this one instead, Young Miss?¡± Ava retained her expressionless face. After being told by the guard captain, she withdrew her trusty dagger and rummaged her belt bag. The slaves she had killed earlier gave her various objects. Perhaps she can use one of them. After all some of them came in sets or duplicates. ¡°Ava have a medal. Leave medal here?¡± ¡°Yes, thank you. Now can I know why are you visiting Kazar?¡± ¡°Ava want to see beautiful sword like this one.¡± ¡°Right, Kazar¡¯s the best! Well, we¡¯re about done. Your medal is your deposit. If you¡¯re caught doing bad things, we will not return your item. You¡¯re free to go, Ava.¡± He paid the medal handed by Ava a brief glance. Looks like it comes from some kind elite guard. Maybe her father is a high ranking commander somewhere and wanted her to broaden her horizons? The guard captain finished writing the report and watched her depart the location. One of the more curious guards talked to the captain. ¡°Do you think she is some noble, Captain?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure. This chevron medal seemed like a high ranked one. Kalish! Go and verify this medal for me.¡± ¡°As you wish, Captain.¡± ¡°Well she could be either an incognito princess or a daughter of an elite force commander. You know some of our Cities had them right? Let¡¯s see what Kalish can find out.¡± ¡°Aye. Should I call the next person, Captain?¡± ¡°Yeah. We need to finish this line quick. I¡¯m dying for some drinks.¡± C3 - The Forgesmith City of Kazar truly lived to its reputation. The lines outside did not do any justice as the City was a melting pot of various civilized creatures and cultures. Everywhere Ava saw would be a chapter onto themselves, each with their own circumstances, history and customs. A simple glance revealed Kazar City was organized in clear districts; the west had largest amount of smokestacks and widely spaced from each other. The east was filled with various civilized creatures carrying many things, presumably buying and selling all sorts of materials. North of Kazar was populated by tall buildings and grand palaces while the south, Ava¡¯s current position was littered with creatures that merrily eating and drinking. She decided getting more information was more vital than looking for shops that sold stuff similar to the Wind Scimitar. To begin world conquest, one must first understand the inhabitants that live in them. Every creature usually need food and the fact most of them congregate to this place served Ava¡¯s interests well. She could observe them and monitor their behaviours here. ¡°Grilled lamb ribs, cheap! Only three kelzars each!¡± ¡°Ten flat bread for six kelzars! Don¡¯t miss this opportunity!¡± ¡°Finest coffee in Kazar! You¡¯re not in Kazar until you try it!¡± ¡°Melsir¡¯s Hot Pot! The one and only, original Melsir!¡± No matter where she looked, this was truly a bustling place. On one corner was a group of four-armed creatures serving and mixing multiple odd-coloured fluids in cups and jugs. Another was bird-like creatures drawing cooked meat and vegetables from a central bubbling pot. Her entry to the area raised a few eyebrows but most of them were momentary glances. After all this City had its share of many short creatures and other youngsters like her. There were clear presences of Kazar City¡¯s guards and so people generally mind their own businesses. She continued to wander aimlessly in the area, familiarizing herself with the varied customs and creatures here. She passed by various streets, initially focusing on places that had the most people in one place such as restaurants and coffee houses. ¡°Did you just went near Nalduk? Isn¡¯t that Vetjar¡¯s territory?¡± ¡°Vetjar? Didn¡¯t see him. I passed through the area and no one stopped me. Good riddance! Saved me quite a bit of money.¡± ¡°Oh, buy me a few cups of coffee then!¡± ¡°Why you, you¡¯re just mooching off me anyway!¡± There were increasing amount of people talking about current events. Ava recognized some of the contents but kept mum as she moved about to avoid being conspicuous for eavesdropping. When she entered another street ringed with food stalls, someone called her out. ¡°Hey Young Miss, do you want to try this grilled chicken? It¡¯s the best in Kazar!¡± ¡°....¡± She left the street and head toward the voice for change of pace. It was a tanned man in front of a square fire pot. Tongues of fire crackled as oil and fat dripped from white meat-skewers on top of said pot. A distinctive aroma tickled Ava¡¯s nose, a composite smell of spices and honey. ¡°Ava questions, how much for one stick?¡± ¡°It¡¯s free, Young Miss! In return please tell Young Miss¡¯s friends to come along and buy uncle¡¯s grilled chicken!¡± ¡°Hey Juan, why are you stealing my customer? I saw her first! Young Miss, would you like to try my drink?¡± ¡°Says you, old man Husan! She¡¯s already in front of my place, not yours!¡± In the end Ava accepted both of their offers out of curiosity. Juan was somewhat a stoic human, lean and thin haired. Husan was a four-armed muscular man with black beard and knotted hair. From her observation, Ava concluded they were quite close albeit rivals in business. Chomp! She bit into the chicken skewer given to her. A burst of flavour flooded her mouth, a blend of spicy, sweetness and savouriness. It was juicy, oily and greasy. She varied her chewing rate, enjoying the rich taste, smell and texture of said chicken. Juan was a fine griller indeed. The man named as Juan blossomed into a smile as he watched Ava ate his product bit by bit. Beginning from her tiny hands firmly gripping the skewer to glistening fatty oil smeared on her thin lips. A contrast that melted the aloof atmosphere around this girl. Swip! Gulp! Ava pulled a small handkerchief from her belt bag and removed the oil stains. She held a cup offered by old man Husan. It was a warm, dark-brown coloured drink. Layers of sweetness and fruitiness greeted her tongue. This seemed to wash down oily taste of the chicken skewer earlier. ¡°Thank you, old human Husan. How much for this cup?¡± ¡°Oh Young Miss, it¡¯s free from me as well! Like this boy Juan, all you need to do is tell your family to stop by! Tell em Old Man Husan¡¯s, Seventh Street, Fourth Ring!¡± ¡°Ey vey, Husan, give us two jugs! We hafta celebrate stuff!¡± ¡°Yanar! Juan, you better up to no funny stuff, okay? I got customers to serve!¡± The boisterous old man then left the duo as some customers showed up to the former¡¯s place. What was unchanging was Ava¡¯s flat expression. She put her hand into her bag and realized she did not have the same copper-coloured coins used by people here. Hers were blue ones. ¡°Uncle Juan. Ava lacks copper-coloured currency. Ava will pay for chicken stick.¡± ¡°Copper-coloured currency? Oh kelzar was it? Nah, just watching you eat is enough! It¡¯s free, Young Miss!¡± ¡°Ava insists to pay. No owing. Ava can work, get stuff from desert. Ava can go work with Wanderer Association.¡± Juan froze for a moment. What is this girl is saying? She¡¯s too young! The food was free to begin with, to attract new customers. Did he heard wrong? He guessed that this girl might be some kind of noble or from strict upbringing, not wanting to owe any favours. ¡°Uncle Juan does not agree? How could Ava repay Uncle? Please provide opinions.¡± ¡°Well...errr¡­.¡± Juan was at lost for words. There are wanderers about her age but usually they came with attendants or someone older to watch over them. She is alone. The thin man looked around, trying to search for her guardian. Maybe they were hidden or something? ¡°Uncle Juan? What is Uncle Juan¡¯s problem? Ava is very strong. Ava can beat bad guys for Uncle.¡± ¡°Ehehehe...Young Miss is joking right? There is no way¡­.¡± ¡°Yes, there is a way. Uncle Juan designate the target, Ava takes care of the target. Plus disposal, for free. Advantageous terms for Ava and Uncle Juan.¡± The more he interacted with her, the more awkward he felt. Perhaps this girl was just boasting and wanted to repay him at any cost. If that was the case, he could ask something safer for her to do. A task that does not involve killings as there is no way a little girl can murder with a poker face. ¡°Uncle Juan is not convinced of Ava? Ava found bad guys with magic blade and big arrows. Ava fought them. They all died.¡± He looked at the girl again. She held her head high, as if it was the most natural thing to say in the world. This Young Miss¡­.might have an active imagination. Yeah, let¡¯s go with that. He convinced himself to offer a simple task to Ava, food-tasting. ¡°Young Miss...Uncle have a simpler job for you. Uncle want to test making new food but no one was willing or too busy. Think Young Miss can do it? This would be enough to repay Uncle.¡± ¡°New food like chicken stick?¡± ¡°Yes. Young Miss just need to eat them and then tell Uncle Juan whether it is tasty or not. Simple!¡± ¡°Ava understands. Please distribute new food.¡± Juan wiped out some sweat from his brows, that was one load off his conscience. Huh! This girl finally got it! Upon receiving her consent, he immediately got to action. He put up new wooden skewers, this time with various meats and seasonings. All of them just saw the light of the day now. One was coloured pink, the second somewhat like wood, followed by golden coloured one and lastly a charcoal-like thing. Each of them was peppered with different types and ratios of spices, all with distinct aromas. He spaced them apart and carefully watched the flames. ¡°Okay, the first one is done. Taste it and tell Uncle.¡± ¡°Yes. This tastes like fish. Please add more salt, red-type pepper, that green leaves and that yellow powder. Add soaking time to remove fish taste, improve savouriness. Please review other cuts of same meat type for alternatives.¡± Juan raised his eyebrows. He always felt this Red Scorpion meat was missing something and she largely came to the same conclusion as him. It was true the said meat is best stewed as attempts to grill it will usually cause it to taste weird. This might be the breakthrough he needed. As Ava went through the prototypes, Juan gradually saw her in a different light. At this age, she was able to guess almost similar to what he had thought. With some adjustments, he might be able to add some new products to his menu. She must be a food genius, not a fighting one! Their food-tasting period had attracted quite a number of curious onlookers. Some were shocked, some were nodding and some had gazes of pity. Juan was known in these parts for being a bit too ambitious. A middle-aged woman then suddenly hugged Ava from the side. ¡°Juan! What are you doing! Why are you making a little girl your lamb!¡± ¡°Ow! Don¡¯t hit me Herla! She wanted to do it herself! Ow, stop hitting me!¡± ¡°Humph! If I see you make her eat strange things again, don¡¯t blame me for being merciless!¡± ¡°Okay, okay, I get it! Take her away if you want! She agreed to it herself!¡± The crowd soon dispersed by an evidently angry Herla, the previous merchant that Ava had met earlier. Juan is just counting his bruises now, after being hit multiple times by Herla with a thin stick. The middle-aged woman brought Ava away from the ill-aspired Juan. ¡°Sigh...did that scary man made you eat those?¡± ¡°No. Uncle Juan is correct. Ava want to repay Uncle. Ava do not have...kelzar. Ava only have currency of different colours.¡± ¡°Repay him? For what, little sister?¡± ¡°Uncle Juan and Old Man Husan gave Ava food and drinks. Ava suggestion of work with Wanderer Association was not accepted. Ava offer of removal of bad guys was also refused by Uncle Juan. Ava is very strong. Ava accepted Uncle Juan¡¯s terms of trying new food.¡± Compared to Juan, Herla fared a little better as she saw how Ava had emerged from the depth of the desert on their way to Kazar City. She must have some backing but taking care of bad guys too? Can she and her backer do that? Herla shook her head, her half-grayed hair swayed. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. ¡°What is Sister Herla¡¯s opinion? How can Ava gain kelzar with approval?¡± ¡°Hmm...let me think¡­.Oh! How about we go to the forgesmiths now? I know a friend that may need some help!¡± ¡°Okay. Please lead the way, Sister Herla.¡±
After several tens of minutes going through sea of people, both of them approached the west of Kazar. There were less people here and most of them either carried weapons or packages. Ava was looking forward to it, maybe she can acquire something like the Wind Scimitar here. Bang! A sudden noise attracted their attention. It was accompanied with shouts and screaming. What is happening? Herla feared the worst. It was known that some visitors to the forgesmiths were quite rude, either trying to rip the forgesmith or displaying an imperialistic behaviour. ¡°Fucking bitch! You said that it will be Third-Grade! Now look at me, I lost my arm thanks to your shitty weapon! This isn¡¯t even a First-Grade!¡± ¡°Shut up, you moron! When you gave me poor materials to begin with, obviously the result will be poor! I warned you before but you insisted on it!¡± ¡°Fuck you! Brothers, fuck her up! Don¡¯t let her get away!¡± Uh-oh. This voice sounded quite familiar to Herla...is that who she was thinking? This cannot be good. Herla tried to look for the guards in this place but oddly she didn¡¯t spot any. Before she knew it, Ava had escaped her hand grasp. ¡°Where does this little brat came from?!! Lemme fuck you up too! Brothers, take action!¡± There were six men here, all with vicious expressions. One of them, the loudest was missing his right arm. They reacted to Ava¡¯s entry, immediately surrounding her and the forgesmith they were threatening. Clearly they had some experience, brandishing their weapons in an instant. Keqiang! Ava deflected a long spear with her dagger. Her short height was still a disadvantage. Against grown men with bigger reach, she can only deflect their attacks and not counter immediately. Nevertheless it was a boon for her as well as she is harder to hit and more agile. The forgesmith was more curvaceous than Ava and Herla. She wore sparse clothing and her white jade-like skin was largely coloured by charcoal dust. She wields a forging hammer, trademark of most forgesmiths. Both of them made a strange combination, one petite, one with big hammer. ¡°Bitch, Imma going to wipe the floor with you!¡± ¡°You wish, retard! Idiots don¡¯t even lose their arms!¡± The short-haired woman with the hammer had a sharp mouth just like the man missing his arm. She was quite skillful with her heavy tool, causing some of the attackers to be sent flying. More of them became angrier with time, combining forces to trap her and Ava! Swish! Peng! Chak! The attacks were quite intense since they outnumber the woman and Ava. Either due to lapse of judgement or lack of teamwork between Ava and the forgesmith, Ava got her first cut on her neck. A lashing spear had almost succeeding in removing her head! ¡°Bastards! Ganging up on me and her! I will flay you alive, put you in the forge!¡± ¡°Fuck you bitch, I will rape you till you¡¯re dead!¡± ¡°Akeila! Hang in there! I will get Juan and Husan to help you!¡± ¡°Herla? What are you doing here!¡± ¡°Oh you wenches aren¡¯t going anywhere! Brothers, kill that old hag too!¡± The group of attackers split into two; four of them faced both Ava and the forgesmith named Akeila while the other two boxed Herla in. The situation immediately became complicated as Herla cannot fight, she is only a merchant! ¡°Young Miss! I know you¡¯re somewhat strong but keep Herla safe! Don¡¯t interrupt my fight!¡± ¡°Ava denies. Ava fought bad guys with magic sword and big arrows before. They all died.¡± Akeila¡¯s bountiful chest heaved in surprise. Is this girl right in the head or something? She only have a dagger! However Akeila did not have the luxury to think, the pressure on her increasing! The attackers eventually found gaps in her defense while Herla ran with all of her might. ¡°Brothers, use your dao weapons! Bout time we knock these bitches out! Show em people die when they oppose us six brothers of Roaring Lions!¡± All attackers paused for a moment and produced magical weapons. The leader held a spiked lash while his other five men use a five-fingered awl, a bastard sword, a jagged long spear, dual-wield katars and, a warhammer respectively. They all produced illusions of roaring lions! Shew! Ava backflipped, an image of a swiping lion shredded her opened face veil. It was a five-fingered awl, brimming with murderous energies. It traced five thin red lines on her face, before she forcibly deflected its trajectory with her dagger. Another weapon flashed to her side, a gleaming katar. Coming to Ava rescue was Akeila that swung her blocky hammer to force the dual-wielding katar user away. However a boosted warhammer then met her forging hammer head-on, sending her a few steps backward. These amped up warriors are hard to fight! ¡°Leave that brat! Concentrate more on Akeila!¡± The one-armed leader of Roaring Lions became confident; Ava can hardly do any damage and Herla was as good as dead. In his opinion, Akeila is the biggest threat to his brothers as she managed to force some of them to back off despite their boosted weapons. The katar-user facing Ava parted away and attacked Akeila. This renewed attack force put increasing amount of glancing hits on her bouncy body. Her left glove was torn and in its place was a sharp cut. Her chest was almost fully exposed and both of her feet were bloodied all over. Kutong! Ava on other hand had throbbing bruises on her right arm and entirety of her knees. This was thanks to a muscular man wielding a bastard sword clad in surging yellow aura. As he swung the sword, big blunt-shaped depressions were created on the sandy ground some distance from the weapon. The muscular man sneered at her and slowed the pace of his attacks. However this was his critical flaw. When he was distracted by partially uncovered chest of Akeila, Ava charged forward and thrusted her dagger to his wrist. Her gamble worked, the man dropped his weapon! ¡°Fucking brat! Seeking death!¡± It was all what the man can said. With her tiny hands Ava punched the bastard sword¡¯s tip upward, the sword striking his head. His nose was immediately crushed, teeths flying about! She delivered another strike, a strong kick to the man¡¯s groins! The man collapsed on the spot, blood flowing. Gudong! Ava leveraged her weight and kicked the bastard sword flying. The sudden attack knocked the katar user to a nearby wall, opening a gap for Akeila. She took the chance to pound her weighty hammer on the surprised spear user that had almost tore open her revealing top. This alerted the Roaring Lions¡¯ leader, causing him to order one of his men cornering Herla to attack Ava. As that man moved, Herla saw an opportunity and bolted away from the loosened blockade on her. ¡°What the fuck are you guys doing! That hag escaped! Chase after her!¡± The leader can only bark as three of his men were down for the count. Akeila was also tying his full attention, locking him from leaving. The chaos caused the group torn between dealing with Akeila and chase after Herla. Ava secretly took action and threw her dagger to the spear user. Pcht! It was a decisive and accurate attack; the dagger penetrated the spear user¡¯s right eye and killing him on the spot. Akeila followed up by pommeling the awl user deep into the ground with her mighty hammer. There were two standing men remaining, the haughty leader and the warhammer user. ¡°Fuck you all, Imma take all of you down with me!¡± The leader became madder by the minute, more than half of his group wiped out! Herla was long gone and now it was two versus two! Ava and Akeila stood close to each other, bruised and bloodied. In front of them were the arrogant leader and his remaining team member. ¡°Give it up.¡± ¡°No way in hell! Imma rape every one of you!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t blame Akeila for being merciless! Let¡¯s finish them, Young Miss!¡± The Roaring Lions¡¯ leader took the first initiative, his whip leaving multiple afterimages. His remaining team member swung his warhammer, lion roaring to the skies! Ava and Akeila jumped away from each other, barely evading incoming attacks in time. Siu! Boom! The wall adjacent to Akeila was immediately cut to pieces while the one near Ava was pulverized into dust! These Roaring Lions¡¯ members were staking it all, knocking two yellowish stones to their weapons to amplify their powers even further! ¡°Akeila! Ava! Hold on! Uncle Juan and Husan on the way!¡± ¡°Roaring Lions, you dare cause trouble to Kazar again? Cease and desist or die!¡± Two booming voices reached the ears of the female duo. One was from Uncle Juan that gave Ava trial skewers earlier while the latter was squad of five men from Kazar City¡¯s guards. Akeila sighed in relief as help is incoming. In just few minutes, Roaring Lions is good as finished! Twack! Ava purposely moved herself between the Roaring Lions¡¯ leader and his remaining minion. Anger had blinded the leader as he was caught unaware of her plan; as both men tried to attack Ava, their weapons collided and tangled with each other. This is a chance! Swish! Pcht! Ava looted the twin katars from the knocked out user. She danced between the two remaining Roaring Lions'' members, swiftly decapitating them consecutively as they were busy trying to untangle their weapons. Akeila at this moment can only gasp at Ava¡¯s cold-blooded decisiveness. The forgesmith temporarily forgot about her injuries, dazed at this vicious young girl. Is she even...human? What kind of stuff she went through to be like this? Reinforcement finally came and relieved both of them. Juan was sweating buckets, Herla terrified moreso! ¡°So uh...can anyone tell me what happened?¡± The squad leader of the Kazar City¡¯s guards was dumbfounded at the scene. All of the Roaring Lions were either crippled or killed. He cannot accept the reality that a forgesmith and a little girl dealt with the notorious group by themselves. What the hell is going on? C4 - Dao Weapons ¡°Are you saying it was self-defense, Miss Akeila?¡± ¡°Yes, these bastards were screaming to rape me and even used their Dao weapons against me! If that¡¯s not attempted murder, what else!¡± It was dusk. The questioning from the guards were quite intense and repetitive. Akeila received some first aid from Herla, her injuries bandaged while her seductive body covered in an unassuming grey cloak. She, Ava and Herla were detained separately. Juan and Husan on other hand were barred from entry and can only hope for the best. Roaring Lions members were captured and transported into separate holding cell from the location as investigation proceeded. Ava remained expressionless as ever. ¡°Ava jumped into the fight. Roaring Lions circled Akeila forgesmith. Roaring Lions took out dao weapons and attacked both Ava and Akeila. Akeila and Ava fought back. Ava killed some of them.¡± ¡°So what Young Miss is saying is that, Roaring Lions drew their weapons first? And use dao weapons against you and the forgesmith first?¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Roaring Lions were unhappy with Akeila and wanted to kill her. Ava kills them first. Self defense.¡± The guard interviewing Ava knows not underestimate people that might be a wandering expert in secret but he felt it was like out of a fairy tale. So, she fought six men with dao weapons? And killed some of ¡®em too? He decided to not record her statement in full. Herla was quite shaken from the events but managed to keep her cool during the questionings. She narrated the same story over and over to the skeptical guard but she too found it difficult to swallow. Reality can be sometimes stranger than fiction. ¡°So this forgesmith friend of yours, Akeila was being threatened by Roaring Lions? And your little friend Ava jumped in and fought them off? Even though every one of them have a high grade dao weapon?¡± ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m saying all these while, mister guard. Roaring Lions surrounded Akeila about some dispute and then Ava jumped in. Roaring Lions drew their weapons first and even tried to kill me. So Akeila and Ava combined forces to fight them off.¡± ¡°Sigh, truth to be said, I don¡¯t believe it either Miss. We¡¯ve checked your statements with others and found them to be mostly the same. It¡¯s true that Roaring Lions were in the wrong but why some of them are already dead when we arrived?¡± ¡°I¡¯m just as curious as mister. I¡¯m not sure what else I can say. That¡¯s all what I know, mister guard.¡± This strange situation put the guards at a bind. Murder is explicitly banned in Kazar but other than that, the guards usually do not interfere with private disputes. The chaos between Akeila and Roaring Lions showed otherwise and could¡¯ve been resolved better. Part of the fault however can be blamed on the lack of the guards¡¯ response. Ganah, the leader of Kazar guards that arrived at the scene had filed a separate query, hinting at possible insider job where part of existing guards were working with Roaring Lions. ¡°Captain Ganah! They should be released!¡± ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you Kalish. Why? What¡¯s the reason?¡± ¡°I have this order writ from City Lord, Ava should be released! And not impeded in the future!¡± ¡°Uh..why? Any reason, Kalish? What was the City Lord thinking?¡± ¡°Dunno. We have some record when Ava first entered Kazar and she showed us some kind of chevron medal as a deposit. Tanif sent me to check her medal with City archives. I didn¡¯t find anything but maybe the Lord knows something. But well, orders are orders.¡± ¡°Humm, if that¡¯s what the City Lord wished. Does City Lord laid other prohibitions?¡± ¡°None so far, Captain Ganah. Just that Ava shouldn¡¯t be restricted too much.¡± ¡°Okay Kalish. I will sign for their release. Mind that I will send some of my men to watch them. People don¡¯t die for random reasons and certainly not to a girl no more than ten years old. She only have a dagger, not a match to a Third Grade dao weapon.¡± The incident was soon resolved. Roaring Lions or whatever left of them were continued to be detained as they had previous offenses. Another task for the guards was to search for extra eye-witnesses. When Ava left the guardhouse, Juan and Husan swarmed her. ¡°Young Miss! Are you okay?!!¡± ¡°Ava is fine, Uncle Juan. Ava is very strong.¡± ¡°Young Missy, you¡¯re not hurt, are you? It breaks my heart!¡± ¡°All situations are normal, Old Human Husan.¡± Next to her exit was Akeila and Herla. Akeila had an intense frown and trying to bottle her grumpiness while Herla was just relieved to see all of them were released safely. The middle-aged woman divided Juan and Husan¡¯s encirclement of Ava. ¡°Now now, you¡¯re just scaring this young sister. We¡¯re going to have some private discussion so please leave Juan, Husan.¡± ¡°Errr¡­.okay. If you need anything, call me up Young Miss. Uncle Juan won¡¯t let you stay hungry!¡± ¡°Stay safe, young missy. This old man hafta go. If you¡¯re in trouble, say my name! Let¡¯s see who dares disturb you!¡± ¡°Akeila, you¡¯re staying. I need you to do some favour for me.¡± ¡°Right. I have a few words with you too, Herla! You got some splainin'' to do!¡± The meeting was adjourned, Juan and Husan heading back to their place respectively while the females travelled together to opposite direction. Some guards and inhabitants had started to light their braziers as night had extended its curtains to the world below. There was lesser amount of beings out at this hour but south of Kazar remained lively as ever. Cold winds billowed about, stirring some of the sands here. The three females eventually reached the forgesmith area and this time it was Akeila¡¯s abode. Chomp! Ava bit a biscuit served by Akeila. The tube-like pastry had a crunchy exterior with nutty taste while the center was soft and oozing with fruity sweetness. This was her fifth biscuit. Akeila sighed softly, her wile enticing but this little girl can sure eat. ¡°So you don¡¯t know her, Herla?¡± ¡°We met by chance just before Kazar. Young sister came out of the desert by herself.¡± Akeila downed a cup of coffee, its smell faint. All three of them were seated on a fur rug with pile of biscuits and jug of coffee on a nearby metal tray. What is exactly this little girl? The forgesmith propped her chin with her hands, her face half covered by silky black hair. ¡°Young Miss Ava, can you tell us a little bit of yourself?¡± ¡°Ava wanders. Ava came from the desert.¡± ¡°Ummh...this Akeila is thankful for Young Miss but¡­¡± ¡°But? Please state your concerns.¡± Akeila was tongue-tied by this golden-eyed girl. Her flat expression was one thing but why did she ate half of the biscuits? This girl...sure have a big appetite. Urgh, I need to bake more of them later. The busty forgesmith turned her glance to Herla. ¡°Just saying, I¡¯m still angry at you for bringing this young girl to my fight, Herla.¡± ¡°Haaah...you saw how she fight, right? Even if I want to, I can¡¯t.¡± ¡°Hmph, no matter. Are you staying for the night, Herla? I got to check a few stuff in my forge.¡± ¡°If you let me, Akeila. You were searching for someone to help you, right? What do you think of Ava?¡± ¡°She¡¯s agile enough but I don¡¯t know. We¡¯ll see. How long you¡¯re staying here?¡± ¡°Just tonight Akeila, I need to check on some wares tomorrow. If you may?¡± ¡°Sure, go ahead Herla. See you next morning.¡± The middle aged woman then retired for the night, entering one of rooms in Akeila¡¯s simple house. There were little decorations and frills, just a few furniture and number of other miscellaneous item. Ava eventually finished all of the biscuits in the tray. ¡°Young Miss, Sister Herla said you want to look at beautiful swords right?¡± ¡°Yes, that is purpose of Ava¡¯s visit to Kazar.¡± ¡°Follow me then. The forge''s at back.¡± Akeila remained courteous to Ava. While Ava is twice younger than her, she suspected a few things. Ava had proved she have some mettle in battle and their early release from the guards suggested she had strong enough backer to influence Kazar¡¯s officials. It would be wise to be humble to this brown-haired little girl especially when her extent and background were largely unknown. Akeila beckoned Ava to follow her, bypassing a courtyard and heading to her forge. Some potted plants can be seen on the way. ¡°Here¡¯s my forge, Young Miss. What I¡¯m worked and working on is on that cabinet. Have a look around.¡± ¡°Confirmed. Ava expressed gratitude.¡± There was two black-coloured furnace, adjacent to a well worn anvil and a pool of water next to it. Ava moved around, picking up and going through all sort of stuff with her petite hands. This was a new stimulation, especially the monster parts scattered around here. ¡°Ava questions, portions of monsters can be used for means of production? Like this Red Scorpion shell?¡± The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. ¡°Right, we forgesmith use them and things like it to make armour. See this plate-thing? This helps to protect people from being stabbed.¡± ¡°Ava fought Red Scorpions before. Ava have no problem stabbing Red Scorpions. They all died.¡± Akeila decided to stop being surprised at this point. Whoever backing this little girl must be very lenient, saving her and all. She opened another cupboard, taking out a few materials and tools. There was one intrigue she wanted to solve. ¡°Young Miss, can I see your dagger? I just want to see how it is.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Akeila grasped the dagger handed to her, her arms squishing a bit of her chest. This dagger looks...ordinary. What is it made of? The dagger had a blackish hue and a simple bronze hilt. It was neither sharp or dull but quite sturdy. She returned the dagger to Ava. ¡°Young Miss, can you help me now? I want to test a few things.¡± ¡°If that is required, go ahead.¡± ¡°Great. Hold the dagger upright and think like you want to stab someone Young Miss. Just that.¡± ¡°Like this?¡± ¡°Perfect. Hold still, Young Miss.¡± The forgesmith took the Red Scorpion-based plate armour and pushed it to the dagger. It was cut like hot knife through butter. Other objects fared no better. She lastly produced a sword-shaped dao weapon, that was strong enough to slice most iron weapons into half. Shririririk! Tiuw! The dao weapon suddenly left her hands and embedded itself to a wall behind her. What the? Is this dagger a dao weapon too?!!! Akeila breathed heavily. Her eyes widened and bits of her hair fell on the ground, cut by the rebounded sword. ¡°Ummm...Young Miss, what is that dagger you¡¯re holding? What is it?¡± ¡°This? This is Ava¡¯s trusty dagger. Ava bring it everywhere.¡± Her answer was less than satisfactory but caution stopped Akeila from asking any further. She saw how the dagger effortlessly blocked the twice boosted dao weapons of Roaring Lions. It must be a custom dao weapon and only useful to Ava and no one else. Then there was the suspicion that someone pretty powerful is backing the little girl. Of course, beings of this world did not know how Ava¡¯s weapon actually worked. It is not a dao weapon but instead operated on a completely different principle. With skillful usage of [Disintegration], Ava is able to compress the effect in a tiny space and undulate it along the sides of the dagger. It was like an incredibly sharp chainsaw but on a molecular scale, ripping apart chemical bonds of most materials on contact. The Post-Human was also perplexed on why dao weapons were able to somehow resist localized [Disintegration]. Was it due to mysterious energies contained in them or something else? Ava stowed away her dagger and threw a question to the forgesmith. ¡°Ava questions, these have special energy in them? Ava¡¯s dagger failed to cut through a magic sword before.¡± ¡°Some do, some don¡¯t Young Miss. The ones are, are called dao weapons. They channel energy of heaven and earth to power their abilities.¡± ¡°Hmm. Can Sister Akeila make one? Ava is interested to see.¡± ¡°Uh, no can do Young Miss. This Sister¡¯s hand is injured but I can show you more examples of it.¡± Akeila shrugged, her hand injury not light. It will take time for her to properly wield the forging hammer again. She compiled with Ava¡¯s request and opened a section of a wall through a press of a palm. Numerous gleams filled the space, energies abundant. There were around five to six swords in the hidden shelf. Some glowed green, some in fiendish red. All energies barely leaking, contained on their surfaces. Each sword had its own pattern and design as if to indicate what kind of energy was embedded within them. Akeila took a step back and pointed to one of them. ¡°I usually make dual-edged dao swords that can cut like Young Miss¡¯s dagger just now. But their effects differ from each other since certain desert monsters can resist certain dao weapons.¡± ¡°How do Sister Akeila put heaven and earth energy in them?¡± ¡°Hmm..how do I say it Young Miss...it¡¯s like solving a puzzle. Then we finish it with special forging, some spells or inscriptions. I¡¯m not good at transcribing so I use my master¡¯s special forging methods.¡± ¡°Can Sister Akeila teach Ava? Ava is interested.¡± ¡°Uhh...I will think about it, Young Miss. For now, we should take a bath!¡± Akeila dodged her request. Even if she teaches her, it would be for naught as making dao weapons are not only theoretical but require one to actually make them through practice. She was in no state to teach, her injuries were barriers. ¡°Ava do not require baths. Conserve water. This is a desert.¡± ¡°Errr Young Miss, just go with me. I do need some help, I¡¯m injured!¡± Akeila shook her head. This little girl sure know her ways with words. Is this little girl afraid of baths or something? She pulled Ava away from the forge, rough hands meeting with soft ones. Although she shouldn¡¯t be surprised, that was unexpected. Ava¡¯s hands were soft, unbecoming to someone that had just killed two enraged men a few hours prior. How much power is packed in this little body? How come it¡¯s strong and cute? Her confidence fell, she felt she just lost in strength and female¡¯s charms. The forgesmith regardless did need Ava¡¯s help as her legs were bandaged in some locations and her left hand was no better. Ava finally relented by taking a wipe bath together with her, using wet cloths to wipe select places. It was like taking a bath with a sibling.
Ava ruminated on past events. The Post Human controlling the body had more or less adapted to its new form. Her random choice to help Akeila had netted some benefits; so people of this world use dao weapons in place of technology. While Post-Humans have transcendent abilities like [Disintegration] and able to control countless constructs, natives of this world use mystical energies and turn primitive weapons to be on par with advanced weaponry. At least in close quarters combat. The fight with Roaring Lions provided a baseline on how the natives fight in a group using their special items. An army equipped with same might be impossible to counter in Ava''s current state, not with her limited supply of quanta at the moment. Her research on how dao weapons were made and operate was suspended as Akeila was unfit for forging. Nevertheless, the Post-Human had successfully coaxed the forgesmith to go to eastern markets of Kazar, to see materials used for dao weapons. This visit could also illuminate her on the unique materials in this world. Their strengths, their weaknesses and their utilities. Understanding them might give Ava some advantage when she needs to clash with the natives on her way of world domination. Both Ava and Akeila reached half of the city until Akeila¡¯s legs almost gave way. Her legs were still injured, her top dress jiggled with the morning gust. Ava caught her on time but since she was small, she was almost squashed flat. ¡°Umm...I¡¯m sorry Young Miss... you¡¯re not hurt, are you?¡± ¡°Mhhf..Ava reports no problem. Let us depart.¡± ¡°Awawa! Young Miss! You don¡¯t have to carry me like this! We can just take a carriage or something!¡± ¡°Why? This is the most efficient method, Sister Akeila. Ava did not protect Sister from damage. Ava want to repay.¡± ¡°The more efficient method is to take a carriage! New stuff!¡± Akeila blushed from ear to ear. She was currently being carried like a princess by a girl half her age and height. Onlookers either gave curious glances or muttering stuff among themselves. This looked like a punishment play¡­ The deadlock was finally broken when a kind soul stopped by, offering them a lift to east of Kazar City. It was a highly spirited male youth, clad in grey clothing that sat on a horse-pulling wagon. Akeila recognized this man, his sword-like eyebrows unmistakable. ¡°So princess Akeila, never thought you would stoop to that extent! Little girl, are you okay?¡± ¡°None of your business, Lutfi! I got ambushed by Roaring Lions and what did you do? Cower in your rabbit hole!¡± ¡°Sheesh, would it kill to tune down your temper a bit? I am giving you a ride to the east, you know. So who¡¯s this little girl?¡± ¡°My name is Ava. Ava is very strong.¡± ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Really, Uncle. Ava helped Sister Akeila kill Roaring Lions.¡± The man named as Lutfi turned silent. Akeila had been giving him stern glares, not to pry further. He can only shake his head, minding his own business. His nose told these two are trouble, better not provoked. Just deliver them to the east and be done with it. C5 - A Strange Rock While south of Kazar concern themselves with food, the east was a haven for merchants that dabble in materials and non-edible products. There was a saying in the badlands; if there were ten items, half of them had passed east of Kazar at some point of time. It was no exaggeration to state eastern Kazar was the lifeline of the City¡¯s main activity of forging equipment. The eastern section of the City was distinct where it had greater number of gates and bigger checkpoints, befitting to the scale of ongoing trade. Ava shifted her gaze from left to right, observing the various creatures here. Instead of laughter, there were haggling and shouting. Cargo wagons roughly outnumber people one to five, transporting all sort of things to and fro from east of Kazar. Presence of Kazar City guards were also stronger as vast amount of money, precious materials and completed products were exchanged by the second. All manners of trade were conducted here, ranging from buying and selling monster parts to finished dao weapons put up for display. Clop, clop, clop! Lufti carefully managed his horse and its carriage among the congested traffic. He had a faint smile observing Ava that looked like a child that was on a first visit to a big city. Akeila on other hand was calculating her fingers, mumbling to herself about something. ¡°Princess, we¡¯re arrived. Princess¡­? Lutfi to Princess Akeila, is Princess still with us?¡± ¡°Huh? Arrived already?¡± ¡°Haha yes Akeila. We¡¯re arrived at eastern Kazar. What are you mumbling about?¡± ¡°Nothing important. Say, will you stay around here, Lutfi? I could use a transport back home too.¡± ¡°Sorry Princess. I have some errands to run for my master. ¡° ¡°Eh, nevermind then. Young Miss Ava, we¡¯ll get off here.¡± After expressing gratitude to Lutfi, Akeila and Ava disembarked from his wagon. The cheerful Lufti gave further aid, a walking stick to Akeila. Akeila begrudgingly accepted his help as she had no other choice if she wants to continue walking without problems. The forgesmith cannot stand his smugness as she had always considered him as her rival. This was a loss of face but Akeila did not bother to regain it back. She had other priorities in mind and far pressing matters. At her right side was Ava, still throwing glances toward everything. ¡°Young Miss, where do you want to go?¡± ¡°Anywhere, Sister Akeila. What does Sister Akeila want to do?¡± ¡°Hmm¡­.we¡¯ll go to a few shops I know. My forge is lacking some materials.¡± Ava nodded to her suggestion. Staying with a knowledgeable person was logical rather than blindly rushing into anything. There were dizzying amount of shops here and sticking with Akeila will ease the Post-Human¡¯s investigation of materials used by natives of the badlands.
It was mostly window shopping as Akeila and Ava went from one shop to another. Part of it can be said due to Akeila¡¯s injuries as she cannot carry many stuffs in her current state. On the other hand, if Ava was to carry her stuff, it would not be good for her public image. Akeila took her time to visit the shops, socializing with the shop owners. The merchants greeted her with much enthusiasm as forgesmiths are some of their biggest trading partners. Some of them joked that Ava must be her child but the forgesmith vehemently denied it. Akeila finally purchased some monster parts, ones that she had shown to Ava yesterday. The seller added a simple hand cart as a bonus as she bought quite a number of them. They entered the main street again as Akeila reviewed her mental list of items to be bought. ¡°Wanderers and forgesmiths! I present to you, a dao crossbow! No arrows, no bolts! A must have for combat! It can hit out to five li! Your enemies wouldn¡¯t even know what hit them!¡± A voice spike attracted the duo¡¯s attention. As eastern Kazar was the trading part of the City, there were a number of merchants that loudly advertise their wares. It was a fierce advertising battle as each merchant try to gain the largest number of customers respectively. Akeila knew the owner of this voice, a former disciple of her master. The disciple left her master out of his own accord but he did not tell her and her master about his reason. Today might be the day she finds out. By the looks of things...this guy sounded desperate under the surface. The compact crossbow showed by him was an odd object, a rectangular box on top of a steel-coloured crossbow. He loaded some kind of rock into the box and then aimed the dao weapon at some monster shells he put in as distant targets. Shew, shew, shew! Multiple bluish bolts flew from the crossbow, hitting all of them within a few seconds. It was indeed formidable; the weapon in his hand was way smaller than the crossbow used to hunt Red Scorpions yet it successfully penetrated all of the monster shell targets. This peaked interests from the visitors as the dao weapon performance was quite enticing. It looked like it can be hidden under a cloak and its demonstrated power suggested it can dispatch most desert monsters with ease. But with great power, comes a great price. Bits of rock dust fell from the weapon, the item in its top-mounted box no longer existing. Observant people knew what had just transpired and whispered among themselves. The crowd caught wind of it and then dispersed just like the sands flowing in the wind. ¡°I knew you were up to something. But I never expected it to be this bad, Janak.¡± ¡°Huh? Oh, it¡¯s just you Akeila. What are you being here for? Are you going to scold me again?¡± ¡°Nothing. I¡¯m just showing these parts to Young Miss Ava here.¡± ¡°This young miss? I don¡¯t want to question your preferences but¡­¡± ¡°Ah shut it, Janak. My passion is in forging. Your item, why did you forge it like that? You¡¯re pissing away money.¡± ¡°Urgh, this is why I left you guys in the first place! You guys cannot understand my vision! This dao crossbow here, is the future!¡± It was a bold claim made by Janak. He was haggard and his eyes were bloodshot. His body was thin and his starvation was evident. The black-haired man clutched the crossbow as if it was his own baby. It was his greatest creation and shame. For forgesmith that cannot sell their products, it was as good as being a beggar. There would be no sponsors and no customers. Much of the forgesmith¡¯s reputation laid on the product they made. Janak¡¯s product was quite powerful but at the same time had gained ill repute. Ava focused her gaze to the strange contraption. It was like a rough jade and crude compared to other dao weapons being sold here. The dao crossbow however contained ferocious might of a dragon or what was left from its previous activation. This weapon reminded her of something. Drawing parallel from her knowledge, the crossbow resembled one of many energy projectors in her former world. The dao crossbow looked like a primitive handheld firearm. Janak was right but no one seemed to catch upon its implications. There must be some kind of reason behind it. ¡°Sister Akeila, why do people do not like Brother Janak¡¯s item? Ava found it quite useful.¡± ¡°Well...the problem lies on what it uses. So this Janak had a great idea but it wasn¡¯t that great actually. A disaster.¡± ¡°Ava do not understand. A disaster?¡± ¡°Yes. This dao crossbow unfortunately use dao cores as its bolts instead of ordinary iron bolts. You can turn a dao core to a bladed dao weapon and use it for a long time. This thing? It eats dao cores like no tomorrow. A very bad investment, Young Miss.¡± ¡°A bad investment, Sister Akeila?¡± ¡°Yeah. Let¡¯s say in a single fight you need to shoot some twenty times. One dao core can probably give two to five shots. That¡¯s four dao blade weapons down the drain as once used by the crossbow, the cores turn into dust. Like Young Miss had saw earlier.¡± Akeila put up a compelling argument. Dao cores were central to any dao weapon in existence. Using them like water would bleed just about anyone. Four dao blade weapons can equip a party. A single dao crossbow equip one person. It was clear which was the better deal. If that was the case, were dao cores rare to begin with? More question filled Ava¡¯s head. If the dao crossbow could be further optimized in some form...it could be a game changer. Evidently the people here did not want to pay to find out. Janak broke her thoughts a few moments later. ¡°Heh. When people are still running around with dao blades like fools, I will be the one to shoot all of them and they won¡¯t even be able to reach me!¡± ¡°Save your fantasies Janak. I knew it, you blew your savings on this thing right?¡± ¡°A necessary sacrifice for a new dawn, Akeila. Like I said, this is the future! Why can¡¯t we shoot magical energies like those desert monsters? This will make every man and monster, equal.¡± ¡°Equal? Pfft what happens if you ran out of dao cores, Janak? What will you do? What if the monster simply steps to its side?¡± ¡°I will figure it out, somehow. Where there¡¯s a will, there¡¯s a way, Akeila!¡± ¡°Sigh, this part of you never change, Janak. At least you had some tact to leave us when you came up with this blasted thing. Now if you excuse us...¡± ¡°Wait! Can you buy my dao crossbow? Pretty please? You can do whatever you want with it!¡± ¡°Uhh...sure. But I¡¯m not paying much for this piece of junk, Janak.¡± ¡°No matter! Let me wrap it for you too!¡± The eccentric forgesmith left Akeila and Ava alone for a moment. Akeila withdrew her pouch and brought out a palm sized clothes bag. At first she put one green-coloured coin but later she put two additional ones inside the bag. Her action prompted a question from Ava. If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. ¡°Why does Sister Akeila bought this product? From Sister Akeila¡¯s argument, the product seemed defective.¡± ¡°Hum, let¡¯s say it¡¯s a whim of mine. Janak is my master¡¯s favourite or was. At least I can help him this way, somewhat. Repair a little bit of his image as for us forgesmith, every time we sell our product, our credibility would rise. Janak¡¯s talented but I wish he sees errors in his ways.¡± ¡°Brother Janak is talented?¡± ¡°Yes, way better than me Young Miss. If Sister need to hammer a blade four times, he would find out ways to hammer it once. And his product wouldn¡¯t be any less inferior. Pity a genius had fallen to this extent.¡± Akeila¡¯s pity was genuine as she had benefited from experiments and insights of Janak. Her master acknowledged it as well as they both had used some improvements pioneered by the former disciple. But people change with time. What can she do anyway. To Ava however, Janak represent an opportunity to her. While others shunned him, Ava felt this man might be useful for something. Akeila was somewhat conservative. Janak was more unhinged and could aid Ava in making and testing stuff that ordinary forgesmiths avoid. If Ava want to employ his services, she needed to either convince or bait him with something he cannot refuse. Ava had determined it was best to bait him with resources as he would likely to ignore any word-based persuasion. He was socially outcast by the people around here after all. ¡°Here! All nice and tidy, Akeila!¡± ¡°Thanks. Forge some dao blades sometimes, Janak. You know, don¡¯t waste your talent like this. You¡¯re a forgesmith, act like one.¡± ¡°Those fools are just blind to my breakthrough! I will leap like a carp over a dragon gate, a herald of new age!¡± ¡°Uhh...okay Janak. Sure, whatever. I got other stuff to buy.¡± Akeila and Ava proceeded to left his stall. For some reason, Janak had laughed like a madman behind them. He was shouting about his luck or something, thanking the heavens for getting him his first sale of the week. Akeila sighed when she thought of Janak. To her, having a strong mind and self control was far more important in order to live in these harsh lands. Was it a matter of perspective? She put the matter with Janak deep inside her mind. In any case, Ava was handling the wrapped crossbow like a child that just got a new toy.
Akeila and Ava proceeded their visit to number of shops, partly to continue buy the supplies that Akeila needed and partly due to Ava¡¯s consistent curiosity. People that saw this either thought Ava was a young noble attended by her servant or just a little sister being pampered by her big sister. Their stroll came to a stop to a nearby drink stall as Akeila wanted to rest her legs. The shopkeeper handed them two warm cups filled with pale red-coloured liquid respectively. It had a sweet taste with hint of zest, washing down their fatigue. The wheeled hand cart was almost full now. Ava kept the dao crossbow in a clothes bag given free to her after their prior visit to one of the shops known by Akeila. As they sip their cups away, someone gave Akeila a sudden greeting. ¡°Akeila! Never thought you would get injured! Who hurt you?¡± ¡°Roaring Lions, they got me good! But the guards took care of it, no harms done. Hauled something good, Muzaid? How goes your party?¡± ¡°Pretty well thanks to your weapons! They went to some shopping so..I¡¯m left here. I¡¯m here to consult you about something Akeila.¡± ¡°Oh? What is it?¡± ¡°This thing. We got it after fighting a weird monster. It was a tough fight. So I thought maybe I could sell it...but most of the shops don¡¯t want it.¡± The stout warrior named as Muzaid handed Akeila the strange thing. It was like a black basalt, quite heavy and cold to touch. Akeila took out one shiny stone and put it on the object. Said stone rapidly drained of its colour and crumbled to dust. ¡°Huh, I can say this thing would be poor for making dao weapons. No wonder all those shops don¡¯t want it Muzaid. So what are you going to do with it?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know. Our last trip wasted our money and yet I can¡¯t sell this thing. Do you have any suggestions, Akeila?¡± ¡°Let me try a couple of things.¡± Akeila paid the shopkeeper some coins and signaled for Muzaid to follow him. This strange rock also attracted Ava¡¯s interest. From her observation, the rocks put by Akeila on the black thing was similar to what Roaring Lions had used to boost their dao weapons. They moved to into one corner that was sparse with people. In all of the glowing rocks used by Akeila on said black object, only a few remained albeit dim and about to crumble any moment. This result added nothing but frown to Muzaid, feeling his last trip was a complete failure. ¡°Your luck this time was pretty bad, Muzaid. I don¡¯t think you can forge it as a shield either. A plate shield made of this thing would be too heavy while a gauntlet...might be challenging.¡± ¡°Sigh...what did I do to deserve this...speaking of which, what¡¯s happening to it?¡± The blackish stone was no longer lifeless but instead flashed with streaks of blue from time to time. Sweet yet pungent zing can be smelt around the rock that was on the sandy ground. It smelt like a storm was coming but the sun was shining brightly in the skies. The three of them observed the black object with rapt attention. After a number of glowing rocks had crumbled on top of said black thing, it was now that it showed some kind of response. Neither of them had seen this before, not even for Akeila that was an experienced forgesmith. ¡°Could it be...some kind of dao bucket, Akeila? How can I use it?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know, first time I saw it react like this too. Where do you get it Muzaid, from what monster?¡± ¡°I think it was a variant of the usual Sand Komodo. It did not spit any streams of fire but instead just fought with its strong body. It was way smarter too, knowing our dao weapons are dangerous to it.¡± ¡°Sand Komodo? Hmm¡­¡± Akeila produced a common dagger. She tied it to a wooden stick and poked the black rock. Just before the dagger can touch, arcs of lightning suddenly burst from the rock and gripped the dagger. The forgesmith immediately let go of the stick. The dagger was charred and pitted. ¡°Huh, what the? Lightning attribute? Now this is rare, Muzaid. You picked up some sort of treasure...but I don¡¯t think it¡¯s that useful. You saw how many stuff it broke, right?¡± ¡°Ergh, no chance to use it, like ever? Can¡¯t you forge something out of it, Akeila?¡± ¡°Not in my current form.¡± ¡°Right, you were injured. Here¡¯s a medicine pill, for going all the trouble for me.¡± ¡°Thanks Muzaid. What are you going to do next?¡± ¡°Maybe catching up with my team. You can have the rock, this young miss was looking at it all the time. Bless upon you Akeila, I gotta go.¡± Akeila received a jade bottle without much reservation. Medicinal pills were expensive in the badlands as there were severe lack of suitable plants used to make them. Muzaid giving her the medicine was a lofty payment. Or perhaps as an apology to push this strange rock to her hands. The said black rock was still emitting a pungent yet sweet smell. This time it was Ava that moved, throwing her dagger to said rock. The rock suddenly exploded in flash of blue and turned some of the sands below it into glass. Her dagger on other hand remained scotch-free. ¡°Young Miss, what are you doing?!!! That thing is dangerous!¡± ¡°Ava reports no problem. Look, the rock is no more. Rock successfully neutralized. How can Sister Akeila bring rock if it was not neutralized?¡± Akeila stopped in her tracks. Panic in her face gradually cooled down as she thought things over. The black object was indeed troublesome. What happened to Akeila¡¯s iron dagger was a perfect example. It was as if some beast had chomped into it, causing holes on her weapon. If a person tried to lift the said black object, the consequences could be terrible. Whatever it was, Akeila thought it was a special kind of dao core. Dormant but temperamental once provoked. Previous events suggested it cannot be turned into a reliable dao weapon. Its property to greedily devour energy of heaven and earth was somewhat interesting but in the end, it exploded with great force. To Akeila, this strange thing was just as useless as the dao crossbow she bought for Ava. Using dao cores as bombs? What a quick way to become poor. ¡°Ava questions, where can Ava get the black rock?¡± ¡°Uhh...what are you planning to do, Young Miss?¡± ¡°Ava want a similar black rock. The black rock had exploded so Ava requests a new one.¡± ¡°Well...that¡¯s hard to say. Just as I said, that thing was quite useless. No forgesmith would want to do anything with it.¡± ¡°Sister Akeila is wrong. There is someone.¡± ¡°Oh? Who...wait, Janak?¡± ¡°Yes. If Sister Akeila cannot forge it, Ava will ask Brother Janak.¡± Akeila arched her eyebrows in response. What does this Young Miss saw in him anyway? She felt Ava had disrespected her abilities but it was also true she was in no state to forge anything. Even with the help of Muzaid¡¯s medicine, it will take some time for her injuries to heal. ¡°Uhhh¡­.let us return first, Young Miss.¡± ¡°Can Ava follow Brother Muzaid?¡± ¡°That¡¯s up to his party, Young Miss. Sister Akeila is not sure.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Let us look for Brother Muzaid first.¡± Akeila sensed some headache was incoming. Despite her continued pleas, Ava was quite insistent to get the black rock again. This Young Noble can be a pain in the ass all right. They walked again, hoping to catch Muzaid with his party. C6 - The Ant, Rat and, Scout My child¡­it is harder to maintain a stable connection to this world. Something is disrupting our connection¡­link costs are rising. My child¡­your connection and abilities will be further restricted. Local elements will be mandatory¡­off-world supply is severely capped. My child¡­we shall converse again after this anomaly is resolved. Ava sighed internally. Getting to this world was difficult enough and yet even more issues had cropped up. Did another Post Human had descended earlier? It seemed like it as according to her knowledge only Post Humans can interfere with each other. Ava further concluded that whomever that was, they had broken several key treaties among Post Humans. Treaties observers branded them as rogue consciousnesses, dangerous and unpredictable. For Ava, she was compelled to eliminate them as mandated by the Treaties. ¡°Young Miss, let¡¯s take a break here. My feet¡¯s been hurting.¡± Akeila invited Ava to a crooked alley adjacent to the main street. Ava snapped out of her trance and followed suit. Their hand cart was pushed to a nearby wall while Akeila dropped to the floor. She grimaced for a moment before swallowing green-coloured pills she got from Muzaid. Ava looked at her action with great interest. ¡°Sigh, brother Muzaid is a little too generous sometimes. But I can¡¯t avoid taking them now.¡± ¡°Ava is sorry for the trouble.¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry about it Young Miss! Nothing is more valuable than life. I owe him one this time. Look, no more injuries.¡± The pills were miraculous indeed. Akeila no longer had visible bruises and she removed all of her hidden bandages. She was more spirited than before, a clear improvement. Ava recalled some information regarding medicinal pills but they were largely vague. The associated memories she retrieved during her desert adventure were disjointed and made little sense to the Post Human. These medicines garnered Ava¡¯s interest, prompting her to put it in her list of objectives. There must be explanations for such wondrous items. Sou! Ava jerked her head to her left, her ears picking up a distinct noise. Her golden eyes gradually adjusted to the dim light, a flash of silver entering her vision. It was a small ant, slightly larger than a grain of rice. The ant zipped across the dusty stone floor, too fast to track for most. ¡°Oh? A flash ant? How rare.¡± ¡°A flash ant, Sister Akeila?¡± ¡°Yup, Young Miss. One blink and you¡¯ll miss it. People used to say if one encountered it, the gods will bless you but I don¡¯t believe in such nonsense. No man in the sky will tell Sister what to do, haha!¡± Ava went with the flow and nodded. The Post Human however had another plan with said ants; while Akeila was busy tidying herself, Ava produced several metallic objects from her hands. Then she thinly coated the objects with honey, to bait the ants to carry them away. Chatters continued to ring the background as Eastern Kazar remained lively even at this point of the day. One of the conversations attracted Ava¡¯s attention; it was about a customer refusing the shopkeeper¡¯s offer to wrap their bought items. Why would they refuse it? She directed her gaze toward them and saw an ordinary man handing a pouch of money to the shopkeeper. The man touched the items he bought and they suddenly vanished out of sight. The shopkeeper was stunned for a bit but then acted like nothing was wrong. Ava looked again at the buyer; he was no different than other wanderers here. A loose robe, slightly baggy clothes and wide shoes. What was different however an unassuming ring on his thumb. Such ring might be some kind of storage device as he had no bags on himself. No having to carry any bulky bags seemed quite convenient in the badlands. The Post Human extended her tiny hands at her handcart and stored it in an independent space. She materialized a simple metal ring on her pinky finger as a cover. ¡°Uh Young Miss, where is our handcart?¡± When Akeila turned around to face Ava, she was surprised. ¡°Ava stored it. Sister Akeila is tired right?¡± Ava raised her hand, showing the ring to Akeila. A dimensional ring! She is definitely a high ranked noble or from a big sect! Akeila¡¯s brows twitched for a moment. ¡°Umm¡­I¡¯d prefer if Young Miss just take the dao crossbow. Sister will be going back after this and would be troubled if Sister can¡¯t have the materials.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Here is the items Sister requested.¡± Ava pointed the ring finger to the side and the handcart reappeared, minus the dao crossbow. The forgesmith nodded and took the handcart; she decided to stop being surprised at Ava or it will never end. Wanderers came in various forms and intentions so it was best if one did not pry unto them. As the duo exited the alley, a familiar voice called out to them. ¡°You look brighter than the Sun, Akeila!¡± ¡°Geez, what are you playing at, Muzaid?¡± Akeila blushed; this stout warrior was sure a smooth talker. Another was due to her guilt for using such valuable pills. Muzaid shrugged it off, giving a faint smile in return, ¡°Oh nothing, a little appreciation doesn¡¯t hurt, does it? Life¡¯s precious, I can always get the pills again! So, are you coming with us?¡± ¡°Why not, Muzaid? I want to see if something¡¯s new at the association. You know, the usual. But I won¡¯t be joining your trip this time, I have some business afterwards.¡± Akeila politely refused his invitation. Recent events were bizarre and thus she needed some mental break. ¡°What about this young missy? Just for a short visit like Sister Akeila?¡± Muzaid hunched down to be at the same height as Ava, his thin moustache twirling with the desert wind. Ava balled her fists while her face remained deadpan. ¡°Ava is very strong. Ava took care of bad people and monsters in the desert. Ava wants to join the trip, look for another black rock.¡± ¡°What a great fighting spirit, haha! I heard you were saved by her, Akeila?¡± ¡°News sure travel fast. Yeah, Young Miss is a wanderer all right, Muzaid.¡± Akeila faked a cough, she was embarrassed that a child fought better than her. The forgesmith brought up another topic as a diversion, ¡°So¡­where are the rest of your team mates? Still shopping?¡± As Muzaid was about to answer, a rumbling stomach can be heard. It was no other than Akeila, ¡°That¡¯s right¡­. well let¡¯s go eat something first. I know a good stall; they make tasty bread!¡±If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Muzaid led them to different part of Eastern Kazar, where food stalls started to outnumber other shops. These stalls were simpler than ones in Southern Kazar, with greater focus on easily carriable food. Everything moved fast in this part of the city and the food reflected it. There were large number of roasts, kebabs and stuffed breads, foodstuff that can be eaten on the go. Savoury smell of loafs and meats went together, a mouth-watering experience. Akeila had long been salivating, her stomach grumbling in protest. Muzaid tactfully stopped to one of the stalls, one that sold some meat skewers. He bought some and at the same time reminded the group; they shouldn¡¯t eat too much now or they won¡¯t be able to eat the dish recommended by him. Ava however refused his offer as her mind was on something else. At the said stall, she put her hands on the skewers¡¯ holder. To outsiders, she looked no different than a curious child. Ava then withdrew her hand, some of said skewers vanished without anyone knowing. Some moment later, the group had reached their destination after weaving through the crowd. It was a simple stall, some wooden poles and tables, followed by dried tree trunks as chairs. The stall owner was a chubby man, a good friend of Muzaid as they talked at length. The owner moved to some of his pots, digging something out of them. He brushed the sand away and opened the leaf cover of said objects. They were stuffed breads, filled with tender goat meat and some vegetables. The smell was irresistible, drawing more people to his stall. Chomp! The honours were done by Ava, the first to sink her teeth into the stuffed bread. It was tangy, crunchy and spicy at the same time. She had to admit, this owner is a pretty good cook. Ava gave her thumbs up and the rest of the group followed suit. The owner simply smiled at them. After eating their fill, the group parted with the stall owner but not before him giving Muzaid a big hug. Muzaid replied in kind, saying he will bring rare spices next time. The owner was all smiles as even more people came to his place, attracted by the group¡¯s prior feast. As they moved toward direction of Wanderer Association, one of Kazarian Guards in the area met with them, ¡°I¡¯m sorry wanderers but my eyes saw something odd. Did any of you threw something, or anything? You know the rules around these parts.¡± ¡°Err¡­umm mister, we were eating just now. I¡¯m pretty sure none of us caused trouble? We¡¯re just eating and now going to the Association.¡± Muzaid stepped in, confident none of his current companions did wrong. ¡°Strange¡­am I seeing things? Haah, you may go. Sorry for the trouble.¡± The guard rubbed his left eye, unsure of what had happened. It might be the desert playing tricks on me. He closed the case and let Muzaid and companions go. The group left the perplexed guard and after an earshot away Muzaid had some doubts as well. ¡°So¡­anyone know what in the sand had happened?¡± ¡°Ava felt a bad guy was tailing. Ava took wooden skewers, threw them at bad guy.¡± Wooden skewers? Threw them? At what? Both Muzaid and Akeila found it hard to believe. They did not detect anything out of the ordinary. Besides, this area was watched by some of the best of Kazarian City Guards. Who dared to make trouble here? ¡°Let¡¯s¡­just go to the Association now. I¡¯m sure my team mates had arrived. You sure not joining our trip to Sama¡¯at Barchans, Akeila?¡± ¡°Sorry Muzaid, I still have something to do afterwards. Young Miss will join you, show her the ropes, will you?¡± Muzaid nodded, breaking the awkwardness. I shouldn¡¯t overthink this. He led the group once again, to easternmost side of Kazar City. A large building entered into view, plain and drab but more importantly built to last. Various sapient creatures streamed from said building. Apart from administrative and military-related buildings in Kazar, this building was the next biggest one. For visiting wanderers, said building was one of many branches of Wanderer Association in the badlands which handled requests around the city it was based on. The main building stood some nine stories tall, flanked by two smaller annexes. Majority of people here were concentrated at the main building, moving to and fro between its big iron gates. The interior was spartan, with some chairs there and there but crowds were constant. Muzaid led them to one of waiting halls inside the main building before excusing himself for other matters. Akeila was next, when one of Association¡¯s receptionists agreed to look after Ava for a moment. The Post Human remained silent, observing the people around her. The female receptionist minded herself as well as Ava did not request for anything specific. As wisemen once said, there might be true masters hidden in plain sight, waiting for one to slip up. The receptionist thus skimmed through some papers while keeping Ava in view. Chiu, chiu, chiu! Ava turned her head around; she recognized this sound. It was a desert rat but what¡¯s a desert rat doing in the Association? The sand-coloured desert rat was evidently lively, constantly shrieking at something. The people around here did not seem to pay it any attention. Ava settled her gaze on said rat, it was a bit larger than her palm. It had a peculiar marking on its fur and tail. Other desert rats were not like this and way thinner. The rat was sitting on a wooden stool, next to a grown-up man. The man rested his eyes, ignoring the rat. ¡°Is Miss Ava interested with the rat?¡± The female receptionist gave a friendly smile to Ava. Ava kept her eyes trained on the rat, trying to recall something, ¡°Ava confirms. This rat is used for its services? A service pet? Like the Sand Komodo?¡± ¡°That¡¯s one way to put it missy, but this rat¡¯s a glutton. Name¡¯s Firan and the rat¡¯s Kas.¡± The grown-up man with grizzly hair suddenly opened his eyes, steering the conversation. ¡°All Kas does is complain, complain and complain some more. And when it comes to work, he¡¯s just plain lazy. Or escape even.¡± ¡°Yes¡­yes. No, mister is not bad. Consider the following; he provided you with sustenance.¡± Ava nonchalantly ignored Firan and started talking to the rat. The rat responded in kind, sometimes even patting its buttocks. ¡°Err¡­. you can understand what the rat is saying? Is he saying I¡¯m handsome?¡± Firan scratched his thin beard, lifting his chin up. The female receptionist gave a curtsy nod, giving them some space. ¡°If Miss Ava needs me, please do so.¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± Ava nodded at her and then faced the burly Firan. ¡°Kas is unhappy with his work conditions and asks for improvement.¡± ¡°Improvement? What improvement? He hasn¡¯t seen anything yet, life¡¯s cozy in here.¡± Firan frowned a bit. ¡°Besides, he¡¯s a rat, what else to improve?¡± The rat took offense to his statement and then moved closer to Ava. Ava peered at it, ¡°Ava asks, is Kas sure with the decision?¡± ¡°Um? Now what it is saying?¡± Firan wore an odd look, he had never seen his trained rat act like this. It seemed to favour Ava while occasionally jutting its tongue at Firan. Ava stayed still and let the rat climb her left shoulder, ¡°Kas says it want to follow Ava for a month.¡± ¡°A month? Hmm¡­¡± Firan contemplated the offer. When he thought about it, Kas was a real piece of work, incessantly shrieking at him. Other trained rats were more docile, not as bad. Ava gave the grizzly haired man an upturned look. Her face however was plain as always. ¡°Please consider, Mister Firan. Kas promised he will work harder after this.¡± ¡°An excursion eh? Not a bad idea. But I will require some paperwork as Kas is officially employed by the City. We can¡¯t just let them go.¡± Firan threw his arms in the air for a moment. Another female voice answered the man, ¡°I can handle that, any special requirements, old man?¡± ¡°Oh, just some signatures and that¡¯s it. No way around bureaucrats, haha.¡± Firan gave a brief laugh. The newcomer had short brown hair and sharp eyes. Her body outline was fully hidden by her loose robes, leaving nothing to be seen. Suffice to say, she was no different than the crowd, indistinct in the sea of people. The girl kept her stare on Ava, trying to figure her out. ¡°Makya? When did you arrive? Why didn¡¯t you join us for some bread earlier?¡± Muzaid intervened, happy to see this average looking girl. Firan on other hand took it as a cue and excused himself, ¡°Well don¡¯t forget to give me the forms later. I have other works to do.¡± ¡°Sure, no problem Firan. I will bring you some drinks later,¡± Muzaid beamed a smile and then focused on Makya, ¡°Hmm, are you okay? We need to be in top shape, are you unwell?¡± ¡°Nah¡­I¡¯m just intrigued. So, she will¡­. join us?¡± Makya raised her brows, Ava looked a bit too young for the desert. Muzaid lightly scoffed, a portion of his weapon on his back visible. ¡°That¡¯s¡­the way it is. Miss Ava wanted to get the dao core we got from the Sand Komodo we fought earlier.¡± ¡°You know I didn¡¯t sign up for babysitting, Muzaid. What can she do?¡± Makya was unconvinced, whispering to him. Ava perfectly heard it despite Makya¡¯s best attempt to lower her voice, ¡°Ava can confirm that Ava is very strong. Ava beaten bad guys and monsters in the desert before.¡± ¡°Ah don¡¯t worry about it, you heard what happened to Akeila right? This young missy here was her knight in shining armour. We¡¯ll depart as soon as Husan joined us.¡± Muzaid brushed it off as he had a gut feeling Ava was unordinary. Makya stopped talking as she knew once Muzaid had set his mind to it, he wouldn¡¯t budge, ¡°Okay, we¡¯ll see. But I won¡¯t be responsible for anything bad that can happen, Muzaid.¡± The girl vanished from sight when several people moved in front of Muzaid and Ava. Makya¡¯s skills were indispensable to his party and thus he needed to put with her whims. Shortly afterwards, Akeila saw them and bid them goodbye as they wait for Husan to arrive. C7 - Preparations Ava continued to converse with Kas in a terse manner. The Post Human learnt that sometimes city citizens would group with desert wanderers in the Association. Then they would venture out together, to seek stuff and materiel uncommon to visiting caravans. Most of city dwellers would opt to do so rather than wait for fortune to fall upon their laps. Ava revised her expectations on this diverse city; there was more than meets the eye. As for Husan joining them? Perhaps he was stocking something unusual for his beverages. Ava brief encounters with Husan impressed her that this old man wouldn¡¯t have any issue to traverse the vicious badlands. Come bandit, slay bandit! Come monster, slay monster! His metallic knuckles were especially eye catching, gleaming black as the night sky. Ava eventually stopped talking to Kas as the rat chittered nonsense. It started to puff its chest, telling tall tales such as fending off a group of Red Scorpions or brawling with Thunder Vipers that would give most wanderers some pause. The Post Human instead focused on herself. Due to some outside interference, her off-world supply of quanta was severely reduced. Now she cannot use [Disintegration] as freely as before, limited to once per day. She calculated with her fingers, coming up with several plans in parallel in attempt to circumvent the issue. There were three immediate paths available to her; rely on so-called dao weapons or try to emulate dao cultivation or start building quanta generation as soon as possible. For the first option, she had non-trivial amounts of them, looted from bandits in her previous adventure. However, they were hot potatoes and Ava might draw ire from their original owners, if any. There was also the matter to maintain them and Ava had no clue about it. She could instead ask Akeila or Janak to make custom dao weapons for her but it was too late to ask for it now. On the second path, she failed to grasp it despite gaining memories from the people she killed. Her avatar was modeled similar to a young child and it was no different than mortals. How does one encounter dao in the first place? And if dao weapons are better, why even cultivate? The third option, despite being critical was intentionally postponed. She did not have the space nor materiel for it. Ever since she entered Kazar City, she felt she was being observed by someone or something at times. Pursuing the third path may expose her secrets too early. As she was mulling over the options, her golden eyes caught upon variety of weapons and armours used by creatures visiting the hall. Most of them were bladed dao weapons and only a fraction was ranged ones such as cross bows. The Post Human thought things over again. Since dao weapons in her possession have questionable origins and she cannot rely on [Disintegration], it might optimal if she pursued plain ranged weapons. Throwing knives, needles etcetera. Dao weapons were conspicuous and counter-able as per her experience. Since sand was literally everywhere in these badlands, she could fashion endless number of ordinary weapons such as needles with [Molecular Assembly]. Combined with her grasp over [Gravity Control], they may be launched faster than most eyes or minds could perceive. She thought to invest more quanta into [Gravity Control], but it didn¡¯t seem optimal at the moment. The ability was limited to quarter zhang distance to her body and further extension needed extra quanta. Keeping it activated for prolonged periods also costed as much. Her reverie was broken by Muzaid, ¡°So uh¡­Young Miss Ava, is it okay if I just call Young Miss as Ava?¡± ¡°Ava confirms. There are no problems.¡± Her eyes flickered for a moment as Kas had claimed her left shoulder as its perch. The muscular warrior sighed a breath of relief. He wouldn¡¯t be charged for lese noblesse now. ¡°Well¡­I had a long talk with the Branch Manager. I won¡¯t pry your reasons to be here but I believe formalities will only hinder our work. Husan¡¯s arrived so let¡¯s go buy some stuff before leaving.¡± ¡°What will Brother Muzaid purchase?¡± Ava got off her seat and started to follow him. He took a strip of papyrus from his pocket, squinting his eyes. ¡°Hmm¡­we already got enough food...if not I can always ask Husan to cook. So, we need to buy more medicine and extra pouches of water. Oh, and lease another Komodo.¡± ¡°Ava is sorry for the trouble.¡± Ava nodded downwards. She wasn¡¯t that troubled in terms of supplies apart from quanta yet Muzaid had accounted for her share. This man was thoughtful all right. Muzaid broke into a thin smile, ¡°Oh it¡¯s nothing! We can plan for everything but not everything will go the way we wanted. It¡¯s part of the routine, nothing strange about that!¡± Ava nodded in reply and wore a blank expression. Muzaid got the hint and wordlessly moved through the hall. Others stared at them, some in disgust, some nonchalant and some curious. The contrast was open for all eyes to see, one short and another tall. At this point Ava had removed her head turban and let loose her short golden hair. Her skin was pale beige, unblemished by the harsh desert sun. She was aloof like an immortal that had descended upon these badlands. Muzaid however was one of many definitions of masculinity. His cloak can barely hide his muscles, thin but explosive in power. His sparse hair was dark brown and his eyebrows were sharp as swords. Each of his step was confident, except when a little goddess suddenly latched on his hands. Muzaid didn¡¯t know to whether cry or laugh. He felt a number of unfriendly stares had increased, prompting him to cough and quickly depart from the scene. This is just an escort mission¡­escort mission! He led Ava into a long corridor, to a different part of the Association. An alcohol smell soon wafted through the air. There were less people here but nonetheless some. The duo passed through a small courtyard and number of verdant vegetation. A small plaque can be seen on an arch, titled as the Dispensary. Not much noise can be heard except for occasional whispers and chirps of birds. The duo made their way to one of long benches in the area, to wait for the master of this place to finish his business. The owner was even thinner than Muzaid and can be mistaken for a beauty from afar. He wore simple robes, a square shaped hat and had jade-like skin.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. His actions however were stark contrast to his image; he wrestled a limb of his client, to reset the offset bones. The client let out a muffled scream in agony, the pain was too much. The owner quickly stuffed a bluish pill to the client¡¯s mouth, silencing the client into stupor. The companion of the client bowed down repeatedly before bringing themselves away. Said owner gave a wave of his hand as they left the area. He then turned around and spotted Muzaid on the bench, with Ava in tow. Muzaid got up in order to break the awkwardness. ¡°Hakeem! So, uh¡­I can explain this¡­yes, I¡¯m just escorting this young miss!¡± Muzaid gave an unnatural smile, unsure if this master would buy his excuse. The man named as Hakeem reached down and gave Ava a curtsy bow, ¡°Welcome to the Dispensary, Young Miss. I heard of your arrival from the Branch Manager. Not to worry, Muzaid. So, what brings you here?¡± ¡°Well¡­we¡¯re going to hunt some Red Scorpions and Sand Komodos in Eastern Barchans. Young Miss Ava wanted to see the world.¡± Muzaid was internally relieved, the Branch Manager sure worked fast. Nevertheless, he felt Hakeem was still staring daggers at him and he wasn¡¯t sure why. Hakeem¡¯s eyebrows twitched for a moment. What was Muzaid thinking, bringing this young girl to the harsh desert? ¡°So, the usual then? Antidotes, salves and dressing?¡± ¡°Yes, if you please. Just in case if Young Miss Ava got hurt, you know.¡± Muzaid nodded while ignoring Hakeem¡¯s intense stare. As both of them moved deeper in the compound to talk, Ava decided to stay put to observe her vicinity. The benches were neatly arranged and the plants were visually pleasing. There was a single fountain in the center, cleansing the air from gritty sands of the desert. She tried to look for cauldrons but didn¡¯t find any. She instead spotted a long shelving not far from the counter, filled with various drawers. Hakeem pulled some of them, putting herbs and pills into prepared ceramic bottles. Every time he did, a distinct smell arose respectively. Muzaid eventually head to the bench again while holding a piece of papyrus, ¡°Okay, I will get the stuff you wanted, Hakeem. I will be back after a week.¡± ¡°Thanks. Keep her safe, Muzaid.¡± Hakeem put away a pouch of coins he got from Muzaid. He gave them a strange look; a warrior, a young girl and an employed rat going into a desert. If not seeing it with his own eyes, he would had dismissed this as nonsense. Muzaid nodded while avoiding eye contact. He wanted to leave this place as fast as possible to avoid Hakeem¡¯s unapproved gaze but Ava gripped his hand like an unmoving mountain. The warrior felt perplexed on how a small girl can overpower his strength, his pride. The stoic warrior can only walk slowly, like a father bringing his child for a stroll. Kas, the rat remained silent all these while as they head west of the Dispensary. They went through a number of corridors before arriving to a simple store, adorned with many jars and bottles. A friendly coarse voice greeted them, ¡°Brother Muzaid! Great to see you here!¡± ¡°Yaveh! How¡¯s things going!¡± Muzaid broke into high spirits as if they were kindreds now united. The man named as Yaveh moved among the jars, to vigorously shake Muzaid¡¯s hand, ¡°Good, good, good! So, who¡¯s this brave little girl? And¡­. a rat? What?¡± ¡°Oh, this is Young Miss Ava. We¡¯re going into Eastern Barchans. Haven¡¯t you heard from the Branch Manager? The rat¡¯s Kas, his handler gave permission.¡± Muzaid was immune to this now. Ava herself attracted inquiring gazes and Kas sitting docilely on her shoulders was another combo. Yaveh rubbed his eyes and dusted his beige robes, ¡°No I haven¡¯t. Well anyway, you¡¯re here for some more water, right? How much do you need? Sixty jins?¡± ¡°Yup, the usual please. This trip is going to last for a week.¡± Muzaid handed Yaveh another pouch of money while keeping a watch on Ava. The Post Human kept mum and only stared at the clay jars and water pouches. Yaveh withdrew a papyrus book from a nearby table and jot it down after moving some of the jars into one place, ¡°Okay. Do you want me to deliver it to the usual place?¡± ¡°Ava can carry it no problem.¡± Before Muzaid could answer, Ava had extended her hand and stored the jars away. She purposely shown the ring on her pinky finger. Yaveh gave out a fake smile and then whispered to Muzaid, ¡°Wow, where did you get this noble as your backing? Connect me to her, Brother! Oh wait, I meant, in relation sense. Business sense.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Ask the Branch Manager, Brother. Anyway, thanks. I can¡¯t let Husan and Makya wait.¡± Muzaid eluded his grasp, unease with Yaveh¡¯s sudden familiarity. Ava followed suit. Yaveh was crestfallen, his chance was gone just like that! He however remained positive, he would meet them again soon enough, ¡°Thanks for the purchase! Don¡¯t forget to visit again!¡± Ava glanced at Muzaid, this warrior did have lot of connections and able to negotiate with just about anyone. It was like heaven and earth, Muzaid was nicer than desert bandits that only sought to kill, rape and pillage. She continued her observation, noting his every action. Taking this young girl form was indeed the best idea. People tend to either underestimate Ava or went out of their way to acquiesce her. Upon their way to the next place, Ava felt someone was intently stared at her. She turned her head but there was nothing to be found. Who could it be? The presence seemed different than what she felt inside the City. She ignored the thought as rows of stables came into view. Each stone stable had wooden doors and number of large bipedal lizards. They were quite different than the ones in the desert. These lizards were tamer and had tough sand-coloured scales. Their eyes were yellowish rather than reddish. Ava recalled it now, they were separate breed from usual Desert Komodos. People here used them as speedy mounts, to quickly travel through the desert. ¡°Muzaid! You got all the stuff you needed?¡± Husan cheerfully greeted them, giving Muzaid a hug. Muzaid replied in kind, ¡°Yeah Husan. Where¡¯s Makya?¡± ¡°She will be joining us shortly. So, it¡¯s true this young missy is going to an adventure with us?¡± The stoic warrior nodded to his question, ¡°Yeah, here¡¯s the stamp too. Branch Manager had told me about it. The usual sermon.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­right. So where will we go first, Muzaid?¡± The four-armed elder flipped the papyrus slip a few times before giving it back to Muzaid. Muzaid handed a small pouch of money to the stable keeper, relaying his intent to rent another of these big lizards, ¡°Since Ava is joining us, we¡¯ll be going to three more places than usual. She wants to look for dao core I shown to Akeila, the blackish one I told you about.¡± ¡°Yes, Ava requests the black rock again. Ava is interested in it.¡± Ava spoke her mind, upturning her eyes like a child asking for candy. Her overall expression however remained deadpan. Old man Husan arched his eyebrows, ¡°So young missy wants a dao core? And what¡¯s with this rat?¡± ¡°It¡¯s as you heard, Husan. And about the rat, I got the papers from its handler. It apparently liked Ava very much.¡± Muzaid can only give an awkward smile. It was rather unusual to see a young girl travel with a rat. Most children would either bat the rat away or scream in horror. As if it understood what Husan was implying, Kas got up and jutted its tongue at Husan. Ava glanced at the elder, ¡°Old man Husan, Kas says he doesn¡¯t like you.¡± ¡°Now now, let¡¯s not get into fights. We ought to work in a team.¡± Muzaid immediately stepped in to mediate. His eyes met with both Husan and Kas, as if pleading them to get along. Husan shrugged and pointed at their luggage instead, ¡°So, do we need a bigger cart?¡± ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be necessary, Husan. Ava would help with that.¡± Muzaid tried to say it with a straight face. He felt he was only taking advantage of Ava for convenience. Ava waved her tiny hands over the luggage and they vanished into thin air, ¡°Ava confirms. There are no problems.¡± ¡°Oh. You better watch your steps, Muzaid. This old man is too young to die.¡± Husan shot a whisper to Muzaid. His eyes weren¡¯t smiling. Muzaid can only nod in return. He was stuck between a tiger¡¯s den and a lion¡¯s lair, ¡°Don¡¯t worry¡­now let us depart¡­¡± C8 - Interest ¡°Can you handle the reins, Ava?¡± Muzaid¡¯s eyebrows knitted together. He and Husan offered to handle the reins for her but this young girl flatly refused, stating she want to ride the Komodo all by herself. Ava stretched her hand out, trying to pat the one zhang tall Sand Komodo, ¡°No problems, Brother Muzaid. Ava is fully capable to do so.¡± ¡°Ei, pretty brave one ain¡¯t cha? How about this old man help you get up?¡± Husan smirked at her attempts. It was as if watching your own child taking their first, unsteady step. Ava finally succeeded to bring herself up to the lizard¡¯s steed as the lizard suddenly lowered itself, ¡°Problem solved. No chair needed.¡± ¡°Right¡­before we leave, Ava, can you put out some of the bags again? Going out without any bags is a bit unusual.¡± The warrior, Muzaid gestured with his hands. He was concerned that his team may attract unwanted attention. The long arm of law only exists in cities and not in the great desert and beyond. Different set of rules apply to the latter. Ava nodded, extending her pinky ring finger to the side, ¡°Ava confirms. Since there are four Sand Komodos, four large bags and two smaller ones are extracted on request. Ava however is very strong, can beat bad guys and monsters.¡± ¡°Is that so, Young Miss? How about we see who¡¯ll get the most dao cores from this excursion?¡± Makya shown up like a ghost, as if she was there all along. She threw a cold glance at Ava but the Post Human was unperturbed and was as still as water. Muzaid coughed, ¡°Makya, can¡¯t we just get together? Just, for this mission. I would owe you a favour then.¡± ¡°My offer still stands, Muzaid. I would like to use the favour now; let it happen. What do you say, Miss Ava?¡± Makya gave a smile that was not a smile. Her prickly tone was subtle, unable to accept Ava for some reason. No one here knew why except herself. The Post Human was intrigued. This was the first time a native of this world dared to openly challenge a high consciousness to a contest. As for dao cores themselves, Ava had a large sum of them from previous adventure of continuously killing desert bandits and vicious monsters. She could just put the cores out and win by default but she stopped the thought. The Post Human deemed this situation as a chance to deepen her understanding on intricacies and complexities of this world. Therefore, she nodded to Makya. Anything for world domination. Husan which had rigged their bags to their leased Sand Komodos proceeded to pat Muzaid¡¯s shoulder, ¡°Haha it¡¯s good to be young! But let¡¯s not forget our main objective. This old man can¡¯t close shop for long!¡± ¡°Sigh¡­. okay then. Well, let¡¯s go to our first destination first.¡± Muzaid hung his head low. He still cannot understand women. There were also warnings from the Branch Manager and letters from the City Lord regarding Ava, still fresh in his mind. The warrior got up to his Sand Komodo mount and led the party. Their departure drew surrounding gazes including a patrol unit of Kazarian Guards; Muzaid himself was a buff warrior, Husan was like a brawler monk while Makya was plain beyond measure. The jewel of the team however was Ava, treating the bystanders as air. For outsiders, she looked like an incognito noble traveling into the desert with her confidants. People around here had seen a fair share of them but Ava¡¯s golden eyes and hair evoked extensive curiosities. The City Guards gave polite bows to her and she responded the same albeit expressionless. It only reinforced public perception that she was indeed someone of high status in league of City Lord and above. The Guards would never bow to anyone except high ranking personages. Muzaid kept his silence and so the rest of his colleagues. Husan was more concerned about his shop while Makya did not really care about the newfound attention apart from her contest with Ava. The crowd went on their routine as Muzaid and co did not elicit any reaction. The group left the embrace of civilization, meeting less and less people outwards to Sa¡¯maat Barchans. Great crescent dunes and harsh winds were constant, as far as eyes can see. Perceptive minds would notice the dunes slowly moved, as travelers that trekked these lands. Muzaid led the group in the front, followed by Ava and then Husan at the back. Makya went first before them, as the scout of the party. Muzaid then stole a glance at Ava; this young noble seemed aloof about the whole affair. Makya had probably slain a few monsters already. What¡¯s with her confidence? Muzaid inferred Ava must be hiding her true capabilities for some reason and only agreed Makya¡¯s request out of amusement. The warrior felt cold for a moment; if Ava was indeed a great character, a flip from her palm would trample anyone. He quelled his mind and instead kept an eye out. While Makya was quite strong since she can take thirty moves from him and escape, the boundless desert was completely different. He heard rumours of Silver Devil around these parts, eradicating men and monsters alike. Little survived to tell the tale and ones that did mumbled incoherently before suiciding. The moniker Silver Devil was given by them, a mysterious figure with numerous silver tendrils that sap everything from its victims. There were no traces left except for various sightings. What evil was that? Muzaid had lived in this desert throughout his life and saw some strange things but not as dangerous as the Silver Devil. To him, the Devil was a greater threat as the rumours further added that entire settlements and lairs vanished overnight by the next dawn. While Muzaid was deep in contemplation and Husan went through some papyrus slips, Ava continued her observation on them. Her keen perception, a sensory net fundamental to every Post Human was deployed far and wide. Some people were following them from the city. She gave another glance to Muzaid but it seemed no one in the group had managed to detect them. These add-on followers had some skills, able to keep up with Muzaid¡¯s somewhat erratic planning route. The Post Human ignored them for now, to see what were they up to. After a few hours traversing the buffeting winds, Muzaid signaled the group to stop. Makya was in front of them, standing at the edge of an oasis. From afar an oasis might be a savior for weary travelers but not this one. Wriggling black clouds hung on top of it, ever shifting.Stolen novel; please report. ¡°Huh, when did this happen?¡± Muzaid produced a folded map. Frustration was written all over his place, not expecting the oasis had turned into something else. Makya signaled with her hands as identification before moving closer, ¡°Most oases in this region had turned into this, Muzaid. Husan, it might be difficult to search for your stuff now.¡± ¡°What?! How come this be?!¡± The half-dozed Husan immediately jumped out of his mount. Muzaid calculated in his mind, ¡°Hm we need to change our plans then. Husan, any idea where to go?¡± ¡°Urgh¡­it seems I had no choice. We¡¯ll head south, north, west.¡± Husan reluctantly gave Muzaid a piece of crumpled papyrus. The four-armed old man preferred to keep this secret but he had no choice or he need to close shop for real. The warrior stilled for a moment before reassuring Husan, ¡°Don¡¯t worry Husan. What do you think me of? We¡¯re been friends for a long time now!¡± ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s why I¡¯m giving it to you.¡± Husan still had a grim look on his face. Everyone had their own secrets and he just gave some of his. The old man hoped this trip would cover the losses. Ava remained oblivious to the conversation and instead threw tiny metallic spheres to the black clouds at imperceptible speeds while they were distracted, ¡°Brother Muzaid, this oasis is not suitable?¡± ¡°Yeah. These are Javalan Flies and they¡¯re quite a persistent bunch if disturbed. Besides, their presence also means the oasis is already poisonous.¡± Muzaid scratched his head, his plans were in disarray. Ava then turned her gaze skywards before followed by Makya. ¡°Then what about those birds up there?¡± ¡°Birds? Where are they?¡± Both Muzaid and Husan looked at the same direction and didn¡¯t find anything. Makya was the first to whip her mount into high gear, ¡°Gale Sparrows! We need to get out of here, now!¡± As soon as her voice reached them, she was already a few lis forward and left a trail of dust behind. Five small objects rapidly swoop from the skies and plunged deep into the hanging black clouds. Javalan Flies lived to their reputation; the swarm immediately broke into furor. Swoosh! The five objects, Gale Sparrows were no larger than palm of adult human but they were some of the fastest beasts in these lands. They cut through the swarm, eating some of unfortunate Javalan Flies. Despite the green-eyed flies¡¯ best attempts, they cannot entrap the fast birds. The sparrows weren¡¯t particularly strong but they were devious creatures. They had long spotted Muzaid¡¯s group and used him to borrow a tiger¡¯s might. The five wood-coloured sparrows flew toward them, bringing clouds of black plague chasing the group. Both of them however did not notice Ava¡¯s early throwing action had successfully offended the fly¡¯s swarms first, only that their reaction was a bit late. Muzaid and companions urged their mounts to go even faster, the droning of angry flies becoming even closer. ¡°Muzaid! Any idea how to shake them off?!¡± Husan panicked. He had never been chased by Javalan Flies before. Their millions-size swarms were like an encroaching all-consuming horde. The warrior went through his bags and his mind, ¡°Cursed desert! If the swarm is small, we could! Now, no!¡± Chirp, chirp, chirp! Kas woken from its slumber and started to shriek back at the damned birds. The rat and Ava could sense that the Gale Sparrows flying nearby were mocking them. Ava gave a sharp glare to one of them, causing one of the sparrows to froze a moment. But a moment was all it took. One of the black swarms¡¯ tendrils had caught to it, piercing the bird into literal sieve. As they pass, only some bone dust was left wafting into the desert winds. These Javalan Flies were truly enraged and wanted no more than the blood and flesh of their designated enemies. Now both parties were in the same predicament. The death of one of the sparrows further fueled the desire of incoming Javalan Flies to taste blood. It further troubled Muzaid as the birds flew parallel to them. As long the sparrows were here, there was no escape for the party. Muzaid thought to split up the party but decided to go against it. He finally caught to Makya, ¡°Makya! Any ideas?!¡± ¡°Not until Young Miss Ava made her move!¡± Makya intentionally slowed her steed, interested to see how Ava would react. The young girl however was nonchalant, as if there were nothing wrong in this world. Muzaid grimaced. What¡¯s up with her?! He wished he had bought some Fire Talismans earlier but his budget didn¡¯t allow it. He formulated some plan in his mind, ¡°Husan, it looks like this is gonna be rough! We¡¯re going straight into one of Red Scorpion lairs!¡± ¡°Red Scorpions? Just this old man¡¯s luck! Go for it, our mounts can¡¯t run for long either!¡± Husan tightly gripped the reins but his steed was slowly overwhelmed by fatigue. Once they stopped, death was inevitably certain. Makya snorted but no one could see her displeasure. She stated her opinion in cold voice, ¡°Just split up! I¡¯m sure Young Miss Ava can handle herself! We have our own problems to begin with!¡± ¡°No! A man keeps to his words! We¡¯re in this together!¡± Muzaid blatantly refused her outrageous demand. If not being chased by millions of death flies, he would already slap her. Ava focused her gaze to Makya. This woman was sure ruthless. The Post Human nevertheless felt it was beneath her to argue with an inferior lifeform. Her golden eyes flickered like the sinking Sun, with some blue lines. Portions of the swarm suddenly collapsed into themselves. She activated the spheres she threw earlier and they caused a fraction of the Javalan Flies to have bluish eyes instead. The main swarm were unaware of the subtle change as they were fully concentrated on hunting Muzaid¡¯s party and the sparrows to the death. Chirp, chirp! Empowered by stimulation from Ava, the bluish-eyed Javalan Flies somehow gained extra speed and struck the remaining four sparrows. This immediately bought Muzaid and companions some extra seconds as the swarm held back to bombard the trapped birds. Ava and her colleagues slid down across a sandstone crevice on one of few stone islands between the dunes of Sa¡¯maat. The Sand Komodo steeds were visibly afraid, not due to the Javalan Flies but due to many holes carved into the side of this island. For thousands of years, it had been engraved to their genes that Red Scorpions are their natural enemy in the desert. A full-grown Sand Komodo may able to take on a few but a lair full of them? Even a strong Sand Komodo knew the immensity between heaven and earth. The Javalan Flies lived to their reputation again; despite fully knowing they were being led into den of Red Scorpions, they charged in regardless. Their numbers were truly great, darkening the skies and scattering the sparse clouds. Millions would die but they persisted. Kisha!!!!!! The first Red Scorpion made its appearance from one of many holes in the area. Its two zhang body had blood red luster thus its name. What¡¯s dangerous about them were not actually their massive pincers but their stingers. It primed its stinger, aiming at the incoming swarms. Ava swayed her hand, ordering the bluish-eyed Javalan Flies to back off and go back to whence they came. She cannot lose her pawns now as it was quite hard to find swarms of such size. The rest of the black death sprinted directly into the posturing Red Scorpion like hammers. Xiang, xiang, xiang! The shell of the vicious scorpion was truly tough, able to withstand the force of millions of Javalan Flies. At the same time, it cannot move as the flies kept striking it, trying to probe the scorpion¡¯s weakspots. Both creatures tangled together, rolling across the dusty rocks. More Red Scorpions showed up, alarmed of the unfolding clash. They also postured their stingers before shooting jets of corrosive liquids. These yellowish fluids had acrid smell and immediate results, melting the flies, the scorpion and surrounding rocks into noxious puddles. Muzaid got off from his steed and let it go. A tough fight was in the horizon as he pulled his dao weapon in shape of hammers out, ¡°Everyone, stay focused! Don¡¯t let the Scorpions corner you! Makya, after this we¡¯re going to have a long talk!¡± C9 - Resolution ¡°Husan! Keep Ava safe!¡± Muzaid dodged to the left, the rock had melted from a Red Scorpion stinger¡¯s attack. His twin dao hammers surged with whitish aura, ¡°Makya, don¡¯t you dare run away!¡± ¡°On it!¡± Husan also dodged a similar attack before throwing two punches to one of leg joints of his Red Scorpion opponent. His fists immediately turned numb, ¡°Cursed desert, they¡¯re tougher than I thought!¡± Ava had the same idea, drawing her prior experience in fighting Red Scorpions. In absence of large crossbows, use the scorpion¡¯s movements against it! Attack its joints to seal its actions, deliver the killing blow! Of course, getting up close and personal was more dangerous. The Post Human jumped and ducked, running at side walls to evade joint attacks of three Red Scorpions emerging from a tunnel. Each time her soles touched a rocky surface, she created huge sums of needles. Each time she evaded, she pushed said needles to the monsters¡¯ joints. Crack, crack, crack! With each hit the scorpions were sapped from moving, their joints locked by stuck needles. Ava then stomped the ground, creating stone javelins. She kicked them into opened mouth of said scorpions, skewering through! Said javelins then exploded inside their bodies! The three Red Scorpions died before they can even scream but their stingers continued to move on reflex. Ava sensed the danger and threw more stone javelins, deflecting the stingers. A Red Scorpion deeper in the tunnel was caught in their discharges, rapidly melting away. The four armed elder was flabbergasted, ¡°Hey Muzaid! No one told me the young missy is this capable!¡± ¡°Hmph! I can do even better!¡± Irritation was evident in Makya¡¯s tone. The scout used thin wires to lock her opponents. She ran across one of them, tugging the wires along to decapitate its stinger and chuck it to a charging Red Scorpion, killing it. Ava stomped the ground again, creating and kicking extra stone javelins to nail down a Red Scorpion behind Muzaid, ¡°Ava is very strong, Brother Muzaid.¡± ¡°Yeah! Thank you for the support!¡± Muzaid saw the opening and brandished his dao hammers on the head of said pinned monster. It shook a bit before its rear exploded in gore and shrapnel, mauling yet another Red Scorpion. Husan rode the momentum by kicking another Red Scorpion next to Muzaid, ¡°Gahahaha! Bring on the heat! Come scorpion, slay scorpion!¡± The old man¡¯s excitement however was short-lived; there were still some surviving Javalan Flies! As the mantis stalked the cicada, it was unaware of the oriole behind it! The remnant swarm avoided fighting Red Scorpions and instead buzzed straight at Muzaid and friends. Makya was the first to notice it, tugging her thin strings and nearby Red Scorpions to block the incoming flies. The impact dazed some of the flies and newly arrived Red Scorpions took the chance to smother them with corrosive liquid, forcing Makya to jump away. Ava on the other hand stomped the ground to bring up a stone pillar. She punched it, turning the pillar into waves of rock needles toward the flies that chased her. Each Javalan Fly was split into halves and the needles continued their travel to pin a nearby Red Scorpion. Husan was more miserable; his arms took multiple hits from the flies, battered and bruised. Muzaid noticed Husan¡¯s trouble and shook his dao hammers, throwing an energy wave that stunted the winged attackers. The flies were then melted by agitated group of Red Scorpions. It was chaotic as each party switched positions and targets to take advantage of each other. Javalan Flies suffered the most as they only know to do straight ramming assaults. Their numbers dwindled over time as more Red Scorpions attacked them, melting the huge swarm. Kas had long escaped with Ava¡¯s Sand Komodo mount but they cannot escape far as more Red Scorpions showed up, to block the party¡¯s Sand Komodos from leaving. The rat shrieked as loud as it can, to warn others that the fight was far from over, more enemies inbound! ¡°Damn! The scorpions are going after our mounts!¡± Muzaid¡¯s ears perked up. He was too far away from the encircled Komodos, unable to lose his current opponent. Husan twisted off a stinger from a dead Red Scorpion and then threw it to one of monsters trapping the Komodos, ¡°Muzaid! Use the stingers to stun lock them!¡± ¡°Save your breath, old man. I¡¯ll do it!¡± Makya jumped forward and imitated Husan¡¯s action with her wire weapon. Four stingers struck three Red Scorpions, killing the monsters and opened a path for their Komodos to retreat. The remaining Red Scorpions outside shrilled in response, causing intense ringing in ears of Muzaid, Husan and Makya. Ava remained unaffected, jumping outwards from the tunnel in front of her. Even more Red Scorpions rushed outside, answering the summons of their kin! ¡°Cursed desert, there¡¯s more of them! Muzaid, we should retreat!¡± Husan was thoroughly terrified. It took practically his all to down a single one. For one that died, ten more showed up! Muzaid flung his dao hammers to free himself from being trapped by newer Red Scorpions, ¡°Yeah! Run for it! I¡¯ll open a path!¡± ¡°Brother Muzaid, does Brother Muzaid trusts Ava?¡± Ava flashed next to Muzaid, startling the warrior. Muzaid¡¯s eyebrows arched upwards, his breath ragged, ¡°Trust? What trust?!¡± ¡°If Brother Muzaid wanted it, Ava can clear them. But¡­¡± The Post Human hesitated, her solution might be unpalatable to him. Muzaid shook his head, not minding the implications. He would rather grasp to any chance of survival, ¡°Ava! You can do your thing! This brother won¡¯t blame you! Life¡¯s first, loot second!¡± ¡°Ava confirms, step back.¡± The young girl nodded to him, face blank. She flipped backwards, into some of more intact corpses of Red Scorpions. Makya giggled inside, voice drown in heat of battle, ¡°Hmph, good riddance¡­¡± The Post Human ignored her comment and instead focused at task at hand. She withdrew several jars of water and tapped them. At the same time Ava kicked at leftover Red Scorpion stingers as well. Both items fused into strange contraptions, similar to bouncy balls. Ava stomped around, creating rocky walls that impede or block most of the tunnels in vicinity. She left some unobstructed, kicking the strange contraptions into them before rocky walls sealed them as well. The Post Human proceeded to sprint toward Muzaid after the deed. Gu dong! Honglong! The entirety of the island shook, tremors abundant! Muzaid could feel on his legs that the tunnels underneath the island were exploding for multiple times. Did she just¡­Fire Talismans? Heavens! Muzaid and Husan stopped in their tracks, unable to stand up! Large portions of the island cracked; crevasses spread like spiderwebs in all directions. Air rushed in, fanning the fires to cook any Red Scorpions not killed by the initial blast. By the time Muzaid¡¯s party managed to leave, it looked like a volcano had detonated on the island.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. ¡°Is it¡­over?¡± Husan rubbed his eyes numerous times, unsure of what had just happened. Muzaid closed his gaping mouth, ¡°Uh¡­I guess it¡¯s good that we¡¯re all alive. Ava, a jar of water please.¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± The Post Human waved her hands, passing a water jar to the warrior. She brought out a medical salve next, ¡°Sister Makya is injured?¡± ¡°Umm¡­. thanks?¡± Makya accepted the salve while being slack jawed. When she thought about it, challenging Ava was pretty much laughable. Ava didn¡¯t need any help¡­she needed her help instead. Glug, glug, glug! Muzaid and Husan greedily drank water, quenching their thirst after the chaotic battle. They accepted the medical salves given by Ava, tending to their wounds and bruises. One of Muzaid¡¯s dao hammers had dimmed while Husan¡¯s metallic knuckles had lost in the explosion. Makya on the other hand had ran out of steel wires and her left shoe was missing. Ava and the Sand Komodos fared better, without much fatigue. Kas peeked out, jumping along leftover Red Scorpion corpses, burrowing into them to get out their dao cores. Muzaid got up, ¡°Ava¡­uhh..next time tell us before you do that, haha. Anyway, Muzaid the warrior, expresses his gratitude for saving us.¡± ¡°Same here young missy, Husan expresses his gratitude for saving us.¡± ¡°Umm¡­I¡¯m sorry Young Miss Ava¡­. Makya expresses her gratitude for saving us.¡± ¡°Ava acknowledges. Please rise.¡± The Post Human waved her hands, not wanting them to stand in ceremony. She didn¡¯t really care for formalities and wanted them to be more alert instead. Bang! Ava punched one of rock debris scattered in the area, turning it into a stone javelin that killed a creeping Red Scorpion behind the party. She kicked another piece of rock into the air, splitting it into numerous stone javelins that pinned other surviving Red Scorpions in vicinity. ¡°There are still some Red Scorpions? Cursed desert!¡± Muzaid was the first to react to her action, brandishing his weapons again. Ava walked toward him, patting his waist as she was shorter than him, ¡°All Red Scorpions had been subjugated, Brother Muzaid. We have one hour to retrieve the materials.¡± ¡°One hour? Why is that, young missy?¡± Husan shot her a question. All of these Red Scorpions were pretty much dead or heavily injured. What would happen next? Ava beckoned them to come closer before materializing a little statue, ¡°This, Old Man Husan. The cleaner of the desert.¡± All of them stared at it, unsure what to make out of it. It wasn¡¯t a snake or a worm but instead a creature of some kind. The statue became animated, floating on Ava¡¯s tiny palm. It swam in the air, swallowing what seemed to be rocky islands, mapped to their current surroundings. At this point Muzaid had put all of his trust in Ava, ¡°Whatever that is, it doesn¡¯t look like it¡¯s friendly. Husan, you¡¯re okay with monster materials?¡± ¡°Uh¡­this old man didn¡¯t do all the work¡­ask young missy instead, haha!¡± Husan gained his cheerful personality again, realizing he had just survived a disaster. Muzaid gave Ava a glance and she nodded in response. The warrior gave Husan the thumbs up before walking toward Makya, ¡°So Makya¡­I would like to know why did you hate Ava. Just you know, she single-handedly saved all of our lives.¡± ¡°Umm¡­it¡¯s just that¡­.¡± Makya stammered, her face flushed. She felt quite guilty over the situation. The warrior sighed, ¡°Makya, we can always talk it out. What seems to trouble you?¡± ¡°Truth to be told, I wanted to test Young Miss Ava¡­I didn¡¯t mean it¡­.no¡­¡± Makya moved her face away, not wanting to meet her eyes with Muzaid¡¯s gaze. At this juncture Ava stepped in, ¡°Ava forgives Sister Makya. Sister Makya was stalking Ava back in Eastern Kazar, right?¡± ¡°Stalking? Oh...?¡± Realization struck Muzaid. Ava did mention someone was tailing them back in the City and she responded by throwing wooden skewers at the pursuer. ¡°Yeah¡­that was me, sorry...¡± Makya turned quiet as mosquito, ¡°I got mad since¡­the skewers, ripped my clothes¡­¡± Muzaid sighed again, it turns out to be petty rivalry. Nevertheless, considering the situation, it could¡¯ve turned deadly, fast, ¡°So that¡¯s how it is. I hope we can cooperate fully now, Makya.¡± ¡°Yes. Makya truly sorry for all the trouble.¡± The girl went down to her knees, bowing at Ava. Ava patted her shoulders, ¡°What is done is done, Sister Makya. Help Ava to get monster materials, before cleaner of the desert comes.¡± The plain girl nodded repeatedly like a chicken pecking at its food. The party then spread out, carving and extracting useful materials from Red Scorpion corpses. Shells were useful for armour, stingers useful for antidotes while their dao cores useful for special dao weapons. Despite the devastation from earlier explosions, the party had extracted some hundreds of jins worth of materials. Great risks go with great rewards. While these weren¡¯t the materials Husan was looking for, they were more than enough to sustain his shop for several months. Initially the party piled all of the extracted dao cores at Ava but she waved her sleeves, indicating it was okay for them to keep the cores for themselves. They put significant fraction in front of her anyway, insisting Ava should get the lion share of the collected loot. The Sand Komodos also got into work, using their powerful jaws to rip open the vicious monsters¡¯ corpses. While the team extract the scorpions¡¯ shells, pincers and dao cores, the Komodos chew through the scorpions¡¯ scraps of flesh, gorging themselves. Muzaid let them have the bounty as Red Scorpion¡¯s flesh was tough and had some poison. Making the meat soft and removing said poison were too much work for most sapient beings. Such trifles do not bother the Sand Komodos in the slightest and they happily munch on them. Each material was tagged with papyrus paper, wrapped with strings and piled respectively. Muzaid understood Ava had some means of storing the items and so asked for her help again. The process lasted for forty-five minutes until Ava looked at a certain direction. Some of the pursuers from the City were now here; Ava detected no less than ten beings in close proximity. She signaled with her eyes, putting the rest of Muzaid¡¯s team on high alert. The Sand Komodos stopped eating and huddled close to the party, ready to escape any time. ¡°Lookie here! What do we have here, guehehehe!¡± A raspy voice guffawed, the owner a two zhang tall giant. Muzaid recognized him, a notorious wanderer in these parts, ¡°What do you want, Shalim?¡± ¡°Oh¡­all of your loot? And leave the girls here¡­I can consider letting you back with legs.¡± The bronze-skinned Shalim raised his sabre, prompting nine of his friends to circle Muzaid¡¯s group. Ava was direct against these kinds of people; she kicked on a mangled Red Scorpion corpse in front of the bald-headed Shalim. The corpse exploded into multiple sharp blades, crafted from the scorpion¡¯s tough shells. This took him by surprise and Ava exploited the gap to run away. Clank, clank, clank! Shalim however was no ordinary man, able to deflect most of the flying blades with his glowing bastard sword. His friends did not have the luxury, two of them got bisected by the flying blades. Muzaid responded next, grabbing both Husan and Makya to follow Ava. ¡°Cursed desert, they got away! What should we do, boss?¡± One of Shalim¡¯s henchmen, a hunched man spit on the ground. Shalim licked some of his wounds on his shaking hands. The impact was heavier than he thought, ¡°Hmph, let them run away. We can get rich enough by taking their spoils here.¡± ¡°Yes yes¡­you¡¯re right boss. Boys! Loot everything!¡± The hunched man exclaimed, Shalim was right. Even if they let Muzaid¡¯s party get away, the war spoils were abundant enough. With two of their brothers died to Ava¡¯s attack, the loot split would be even better! Ksh, ksh, ksh! Muzaid¡¯s party made hasty retreat, their mounts galloping away for more than fifty li. It was until Shalim and his goon disappeared from view that Ava signaled Muzaid and his party to stop. It was now one hour from her initial warning. Muzaid smelt a sweet fragrance in the air. What was it? As the party sat on the sand dunes, some of the dunes had shifted and moving toward the broken stone island. It was an odd sight, seeing these dunes all moved to a single direction. There was no wind, yet the dunes ¡®rolled¡¯ from all directions, to a single point. ¡°Brother Muzaid, that is the cleaner of the desert. It comes if there is plenty of food and noise. Here are its prowling grounds.¡± Ava pointed at the shifting sand dunes. Muzaid was quite perplexed, unable to process what he just saw, ¡°Cleaner of the desert?¡± Honglong! He gasped in astonishment as the dunes burst, revealing some kind of creature that flew to the broken Red Scorpion¡¯s lair. Each of the bursting sand dune was accompanied by webs of thunders, that zapped anything in front of them. The sweet smell became stronger. Husan clasped his hand, recalling something, ¡°I remember it now¡­they¡¯re Thunder Vipers! Cursed desert, there¡¯s a lot of them!¡± ¡°Thunder Vipers?¡± Makya never heard of it, her frown visible. Husan exaggerated his arms, waving about, ¡°How do you evade lightning? There¡¯s no mistake about it, the signs, the behavior. It¡¯s them all right. Only them snakes and some others dared to hunt Red Scorpions.¡± ¡°Old man Husan is correct. Thunder Vipers are some of the desert cleaners. Ava advises to leave this place immediately. Shalim is dead.¡± Ava nodded approvingly at Husan, he knew what he was talking about. Muzaid took a deep breath to calm his mind. He was mentally exhausted, ¡°Okay¡­let us move to our next destination then.¡± C10 - Search The harsh Sun was three quarters in the horizon, glowing gold as the rest of the sand dunes. Ava and her companions had traveled couple hundred of lis out, areas where the Post Human knew nothing about. Sticking with Muzaid was the best decision, to explore these badlands. The journey was largely boring as Muzaid had worked his best to navigate the treacherous sand dunes. He felt Ava was able to handle most dangers but he didn¡¯t want to impose too much on her. There was also a matter regarding her request, which he had given his word on. Muzaid eventually led the party to one of oases first scouted by Makya in advance. It was situated between two sandstone walls, shielded from arid desert winds. Vegetation was lush with few shrubs and trees but vitally the water was potable and no Javalan Flies were around. Muzaid got off from his mount, ¡°Guys, I think it¡¯s time to take a break. Husan, you¡¯re fine with it, right?¡± ¡°No problem, Muzaid. This old man isn¡¯t in a rush anyway.¡± Husan also got off and started to flex all four of his arms. Ava¡¯s stomach grumbled as she descended from her Sand Komodo with Kas, ¡°Ava questions, how long until Ava can get the black rock?¡± ¡°Haha young missy! Before that, let this old man cook for you!¡± Husan started to put some of his bags on his mount on the ground. Muzaid lightly coughed, ¡°Husan is right. Let¡¯s eat first; I can guarantee his cooking. As for the black rock, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll go for it after getting the first material for Husan, soon.¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± Her golden eyes flickered, ¡°Ava want to pick some flowers.¡± Makya got the hint and moved with her, ¡°I will be going with Young Miss.¡± ¡°Be careful, I feel someone¡¯s been following us.¡± Muzaid nodded to her, before moving with Kas and Husan to select a good place for a fire pit. His caution was warranted; Shalim had ambushed the party before and the warrior felt this was just the beginning. Ava and Makya lightly nodded to his warning, departing from the grassy clearing and then headed toward a more secluded place in the oasis. Both young girl and adult woman walked tens of paces, passing by some palm trees and brown-coloured boulders. It was now dusk and a few minutes away before the curtain of chilly night descended on this place. Desert winds had more or less died down at this moment. ¡°What does Young Miss think?¡± Makya was the first to break the ice. Ava replied her question with a question, ¡°So not only Ava felt it. What does Sister Makya think?¡± ¡°Young Miss already knew the answer, so why ask?¡± Makya sighed. She knew Ava was unfathomable but what was this young girl waiting for? Ava tilted her head and then lightly stomped around a few times, ¡°Ava is just curious.¡± ¡°Okay then. Shall we head back?¡± Makya decided to shift the topic. There was no use to think about it since every wanderer have their own secrets and may not be willing to share. The young girl¡¯s nose twitched, ¡°Ava confirms. Old Man Husan is indeed a good cook.¡± ¡°Yes, but he¡¯s only good at certain stuff. This sister can do better than some stinkin¡¯ old man.¡± Makya snorted in response. Whether hers or Husan¡¯s cooking is better was a matter of perspective. The duo retraced their steps, to meet up with the rest of the party. Enticing smells and sizzling sounds greeted them, coming from a fire pit between Muzaid and Husan. They had been cooking an assortment of fish, vegetables and some meat while waiting the girls to come back. ¡°So, it¡¯s like this, we¡¯ll eat first and then look for Husan¡¯s first material here.¡± Muzaid beckoned them to the fire. Ava gripped the skewer given by Muzaid, ¡°Old man Husan¡¯s material is here? What is it?¡± ¡°Nothing¡¯s important, just some fruit juice young missy can find anywhere! But there¡¯s a secret to it.¡± The four armed elder pointed at some of the trees in vicinity. Ava bit into the skewer, its fresh flavor burst in her tiny mouth, ¡°A secret?¡± ¡°The time for it. Any other time, it tastes horrible.¡± Makya sat next to Ava, facing the fire. Husan nodded like a sage, ¡°Yeah, the time to harvest it. Since we¡¯re already friends, this old man will show young missy after our meal.¡± ¡°When did you become a teacher, eh old Husan? Haha, you¡¯re so stingy before!¡± Muzaid gulped down a bowl of boiled oasis water. Husan shot him a side-eye, ¡°Hey, at least this grandfather knows how to pay his benefactor.¡± ¡°We¡¯re in this together, Husan!¡± The warrior laughed it off, not taking the old man¡¯s snide remark seriously. The party continued to make some empty talks over the course of the meal. Sunlight had entirely disappeared, chill of the night repelled by the bonfire. By the time the fire had died down to embers, Husan got up and walked to a particular direction while observed by others. The old man used all four of his arms, peering and flipping some plant matter in the area. He moved from tree to tree before stopping in front one of them. The tree looked like a date palm but it wasn¡¯t. Only its feathery green leaves were visible, the rest inside the water. He held some kind of maroon-coloured item hanging from the tree, ¡°Young missy, this is it. We call this the water palm.¡± ¡°Ava asks, water palm? This item does not look like a fruit.¡± Ava stared at it. It looked more like a chunk of wood rather than a fruit. It had a peculiar shape, like a porcupine of sorts. Husan produced a knife and an earthen jar, ¡°Haha! Not everyone knows what a water palm is! So, we take its sap, not its juice. Let this old man get it first.¡± ¡°Sweet.¡± The young girl exclaimed after licking a bit of it, smeared over some leaves by Husan. Muzaid also got to work, ¡°So Husan, as usual?¡± ¡°Yeah Muzaid. Don¡¯t get it wrong this time!¡± Husan laughed at the warrior as he was still a novice in selecting the correct fruit.Stolen novel; please report. Ava stood on the water¡¯s edge, ¡°Sister Makya talked about time, but what time is it for this water palm?¡± ¡°Oh, we look at its colour, smell and shape. It¡¯s best before ripe but not anyone can estimate it. It took this old man some years to get it right.¡± Husan lifted his nose up, proud of his long experience in getting the tasty sap. Muzaid cut through a number of such fruits before finding a good one, ¡°Urgh this is hard. Hey Husan, why is it must be done at night? I can¡¯t tell which one, it¡¯s too dark to make out clearly.¡± ¡°Haha! That¡¯s why this grandfather said you¡¯re still a novice! All those years fumblin¡¯ ain¡¯t for nothing, boy!¡± Husan guffawed at Muzaid¡¯s predicament. Ava picked up one of the discarded husks, ¡°Brother Muzaid is right. The light level is too low to make out the fruit colour. Ava requests an explanation, old man Husan.¡± ¡°Oh, young missy, you have Kas, right? Tell it to get the fruit with this smell. When it had found some, call this old man. We also need to get a feel of its shape.¡± The four-armed old man handed Ava a half-cut fruit. The Post Human nodded and then called for Kas, the rat. Makya remained uninterested and instead started to throw some sticks in the water, catching some fishes swimming in the oasis. It took some minutes until the rat came running to Ava as it was deep asleep after prior meal. Ava could easily sense where the fruits were but she didn¡¯t know what to look for, what kind of fruit that was acceptable. There were more than twenty of them in this area, each with their own unique signatures. She decided to go with the flow, to tune her detection schemes. While the rat was slower than Ava on localizing the fruits, it had managed to spot them all and brought Ava to three of them that matched the smell of the half-cut fruit given by Husan. Ava peered at them and selected one at random before calling over the four-armed elder. ¡°Nothing less than what this grandfather expected. So young missy, why do you think this fruit is it?¡± Husan clapped his hands, it wasn¡¯t ten minutes yet Ava and Kas had found one. Chi, chi, chi! ¡°Kas says it had contributed too, old man. He is unhappy with your statement.¡± Ava said with a deadpan expression. Husan briefly stared at the rat that was baring its fangs at him, ¡°Okay, okay. Yeah, Kas had helped too. Why don¡¯t young missy select the other two?¡± ¡°Ava do not know. Luck?¡± The Post Human glanced at Kas and then Husan. The rat shrugged; it didn¡¯t know any better either. The four-armed old man scratched his thin beard, ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct. To this grandfather¡¯s eyes, the other two fruits are about the same. Luck also plays an important factor. Let¡¯s open this one and see your luck, young missy.¡± The old man cut the hard fruit and smeared some of its sap on some leaves. He gave them to both Ava and Kas, waiting for their reactions. The rat liked it so much that it also munched the leaf. Ava on the other hand licked it once, turned blank while putting the leaf away. ¡°This is not sweet, bitter.¡± The Post Human stuck her tongue out at Husan. The old man chuckled while getting another similar fruit to the left of them, ¡°Hahaha! That¡¯s why this old man said it¡¯s about luck! It was too early, the fruit not ready. But for desert rats, this is what they crave.¡± ¡°Are you finished by now, old man? Muzaid?¡± Makya emerged from nearby bushes, with a bunch of freshwater fishes on a steel thread in tow. Muzaid was clad in mud, in his hand some kind of grass, ¡°Only grandfather Husan knows. Anyway, I found water chestnuts!¡± ¡°This old man had enough of them! Muzaid, go look for Hakeem¡¯s herbs!¡± As the warrior was some distance away from them, Husan shouted at him. Muzaid put the water chestnuts to the shore and washed the mud off him, ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m not cut at this water palm stuff. Ava, you¡¯re joining?¡± ¡°Brother Muzaid want to look for medical herbs?¡± Ava flipped some of the water chestnuts, examining them thoroughly. Is there any difference between her world¡¯s water chestnuts to this world¡¯s? Makya answered them both, ¡°Let me go with you two. I also wanted to look for some, for backup.¡± Both robust warrior and young girl nodded at Makya, not minding her presence. Husan stayed put with Kas, saying he wanted to look for something else among the water palm trees. The trio moved to another part of the oasis, littered with shrubs and unique plant life. Some of the bushes were fuzzy akin to a cotton ball with greenish hue while others looked more like ball of thorns. Some of them were almost indistinguishable from surrounding rocks until Ava pointed it out and Muzaid explaining it as a plant that mimicked random stones. The warrior wore a serious expression while carefully dug out a small plant over the side of a cliff, ¡°Okay, that¡¯s one. How¡¯s things on your end, Makya?¡± ¡°Easy. Hakeem sure gave you troublesome job.¡± Makya pulled off some weed-like stuff, brown and thin. Muzaid digressed, seldom stealing glance at Ava, ¡°Hey, it¡¯s mutual. Who else would give us medicines on the cheap, or free sometimes?¡± ¡°What kind of plant is beneficial?¡± Ava noticed his glance and shot a question. Muzaid extracted himself from the cliff and then gave a papyrus slip to Ava, ¡°There¡¯s a few, used to make Hakeem¡¯s salves we used earlier. Here¡¯s a handy reference.¡± ¡°Ava questions, there are secrets to it as well, right?¡± The young girl moved her gaze back and forth, between the papyrus slip and some of the plants in the area. The warrior put the plant he got into a small bag, ¡°Yeah. Some of them are only found in hard to reach places, or need some special procedure. The one this brother got is one of the troublesome ones.¡± ¡°Troublesome, Brother Muzaid?¡± Ava looked at the plants on the cliff, similar to what Muzaid took. The warrior expected this question and threw a rock at the cliff¡¯s plants, ¡°Yes. Look what happens when the rock hits the plant.¡± Ssst! Ssst! ¡°The rock had melted? Is the plant corrosive?¡± Ava stared at the result. Her senses initially told her that it was largely harmless. Makya went for what seemed a bunch of random grasses, ¡°That¡¯s why Sister Makya said Hakeem gave Muzaid some hard requests, Young Miss. Even if Hakeem paid Sister big time, Sister wouldn¡¯t come close to any of them, even with a zhang-long pole.¡± ¡°Haha, now you make me look like a fool! No risk, no gain! Not my fault when his recipe stated so!¡± Muzaid laughed it off. It is true Hakeem¡¯s recipe called for difficult plants but Muzaid was no herbalist and didn¡¯t know the specifics. Makya¡¯s clothes bag was full with some herbs at this point, ¡°Anyway, I got what I wanted. What else left, Muzaid?¡± ¡°I need your string skills. There¡¯s this plant that¡¯s a bit, uh, tricky.¡± Muzaid pointed to a greenish plant with fine silvery hairs and then at flat cacti, ¡°Oh and that fruit too.¡± Ava sat on a nearby rock, watching the duo in action. She recognized them; the first plant was Silver Prickle Tomato and the second, Pink Pad Cacti. Both required special handling but they had their uses. The first plant¡¯s ripe fruits can be processed to make anti-parasites medicines. The cacti on other hand could be used to prevent bone wasting among the elderly or in some places, gelled form of the cacti further helped in purifying contaminated water with other measures. She further observed Muzaid and Makya in harvesting said plants with caution. ¡°Why can¡¯t Brother Muzaid just take all of them?¡± Ava was intrigued on why the warrior only took small bits of such plants. Muzaid wiped off his sweat, concentration strenuous, ¡°We just need to take as much as we need. Too much and there wouldn¡¯t be any of them to harvest next time.¡± ¡°It is as what he says. We take some, we give some. A cycle, Young Miss.¡± Makya sprinkled some ground-up fish meal, from the fishes she had caught earlier. Ava wanted to touch the harvested plants but she didn¡¯t. It would only worry them, ¡°Ava confirms. Is the work here done?¡± ¡°For the most part, the problematic ones were taken care of! Now we¡¯re going hunting simpler ones!¡± Muzaid carefully wrapped the plants inside balls of cotton. Silver Prickle Tomato was poisonous to the touch while the cacti were hard to dislodge once stuck. The warrior stored them in labeled earthen jars and led the girls to another area full of tall grasses. He pointed out what to search and then foraged the area. Here, they took bunch of papyrus reeds from the water¡¯s edge, some more water chestnuts and collection of lichens. The uses of papyrus and water chestnuts were obvious enough but the lichens? Muzaid didn¡¯t know how useful they were but Hakeem told him to get them anyway. The trio collected tens of jins of materials, thanks to the oasis abundance and Ava¡¯s capability to store them away. Muzaid then led them back to Husan and Kas that had fashioned some rudimentary huts out of water palm leaves and papyrus reeds. Each of them took residence respectively, one person for each hut. They decided to pass the cold night, only to travel again by next sunrise. C11 - Sign Ava opened her eyes, dawn of sunlight on her face. This was the fourth time she tried to sleep or what seemed like one. As a transcendent being, the Post-Human had no concept of fatigue or limits of mortals yet she faked it anyway, lest anyone figured out her true identity. She silently donned her cloak and shoes, careful not to wake Kas up. The Post Human exited the hut and moved toward the water¡¯s edge. The central fire pit had more or less turned into ash, with some embers left. Some chill of the night still remained, curtain of fog around. Splash! A refreshing dash of water, as clear as colourless glass. Shoals of fishes can be seen, swimming about in the lake. Ava wiped off her face, feeling the coldness of the scene. She could hear some snoring from Husan¡¯s hut and Muzaid¡¯s mumbles. Makya¡¯s place was barely audible. Next to arise were the Sand Komodos, ever vigilant of their surroundings. They glanced at Ava before doing their own things. Ava refreshed her senses again, there were still someone nearby. Hadn¡¯t they saw enough of her abilities and actions? She ignored them again, for now. The Post Human walked softly some tens of paces, randomly near the camp site. Her senses extended far underground, to get a feel of the soil in this place. Minerals, metals etcetera. She threw a soft sigh, there were nothing notable here except the underground water vein. While this oasis had abundance of plants, she deemed them to be largely useless. From her prior experience, these plants required substantial refinements before they can be used. The Post Human needed metals and minerals the most, not biomatter which she had plenty of. Was it a mistake coming here, to the Sa¡¯maat Barchans instead of the ore-rich Sulaymun Formation? Ava put the matter aside and instead focused in another task. She produced the dao crossbow she got from Janak, trying to figure out on how she could use or improve it. Clank! Fwip! The crossbow was comfortable to use, as if it was tailor-made for someone with stature like Ava. The Post Human toyed with it, flipping it around her small palms. Akeila mentioned this thing used dao cores as ammunition and Ava now had plenty of them. Should she splurge? She shifted her attention on figuring out the weird contraption. It didn¡¯t contain any complex mechanisms, only simple latches there and there. The weapon however had some kind of symbols or rather several engraved patterns throughout its crude structure. What were they? The Post Human produced a dao core and put it inside the metal box on top of it. She clicked the trigger but nothing happened. She clicked it again and again until its muzzle, shaped like a dragon head glowed blue. Multiple bluish energy bolts erupted from its muzzle. Shew, shew, shew! The target, a relatively large boulder had five deep holes in it. Ava clicked again but there was no response, only bit of dust dropping from its top-mounted box. The dao core had been entirely spent, completely consumed. Said target boulder then cracked into pieces, loudly. The Post Human saw logic in Akeila¡¯s words. For ordinary wanderers, this weapon was a literal money sink; considering how hard it was to kill a desert monster with a dao core, any sane wanderer wouldn¡¯t use this weapon. A junk in other words, created by an insane mind, Janak. Her experiment was interrupted by panicked voice of Muzaid, ¡°Guys?! Are we under attack?!¡± ¡°What?! Where?!¡± Next was Husan, his hut exploded into pieces. Ava ran back to the campsite, waving the crossbow, ¡°Please at ease. Ava was just testing this dao weapon crossbow.¡± ¡°OH!¡± Both guys were relieved, it wasn¡¯t an attack but just the young girl doing something. They did think Ava had used some Fire Talismans last time so it wouldn¡¯t be strange for her to have something of similar caliber. At this point Makya had fully awakened from all the noise, ¡°A dao crossbow?¡± ¡°Let me guess, Janak¡¯s was it?¡± Muzaid took a deep breath, it seemed Ava was fine and proper. Husan propped his chin, staring at the odd item on Ava¡¯s hands, ¡°This old man heard of it before too. So Janak¡¯s still at it? Didn¡¯t he have better things to do?¡± ¡°Ava bought it and Ava liked it.¡± The young girl refuted their negative implications. After all, she wasn¡¯t actually the same as these people, her sense of values was different. Makya carefully arranged her words, as to not offend Ava, ¡°This sister would give a similar advice. Better to think it as a curious souvenir, Young Miss.¡± ¡°Ava acknowledges. When will Ava get black rock?¡± The Post Human dodged the issue, not wishing to discuss it any longer. Muzaid had a troubled expression, ¡°About the black rock, uhh¡­¡± ¡°Huh, you¡¯re not delicate at all, Muzaid.¡± Makya snorted at him but adopted a gentler tone with Ava, ¡°Well Young Miss, earlier on, we can¡¯t exactly say how we get it.¡± ¡°Wanderers, haah. Cutthroat competition, especially Kazar¡¯s. Saying it came from an unknown desert monster keep people with funny ideas away.¡± Husan sighed as he had guessed why. Muzaid talked a little bit carefully, ¡°Yeah. Wanderers come in various shapes and intentions. But in the boundless desert? Who knows?¡± ¡°Ava is very strong. Ava have no problem to deal with any of them, Brother Muzaid.¡± The young girl fisted the empty air. Her face however was blank as usual. The four-armed elder put two of his hands on his waist, ¡°Gahahaha! That¡¯s the spirit! Come devil, slay devil! Come god, slay god!¡± ¡°Okay, we¡¯ll be going for your black rock after this breakfast.¡± The warrior got to work, dismantling the huts along with Makya. Husan took the clue and started the fire pit again, ¡°Yup! Can¡¯t travel with an empty stomach!¡± At the same time, the four-armed elder shelled some of previously collected water chestnuts. Ava offered to help but he politely refused her request, saying she shouldn¡¯t trouble herself with such minor things. The Post Human thus waited patiently by the side of the bonfire. Crackle! The flame had stabilized and Husan put a thin stone slab over it. He dispensed the chestnuts along with dash of salt and pepper. The whitish vegetable slowly turned as golden as the sand dunes. A sweet, nutty and fruity smell; Kas the rat had already drooling from its mouth. Crunch! It was an unspoken understanding in the party that Ava usually get to taste the first serving. The water chestnuts were in thin slices, crunchy and refreshing to bite. If there was a word for it, it would be potato chips but Ava was unsure whether potatoes existed in this world. Siss! Husan added another ingredient, fruits of Pink Pad Cacti. He put them on some sticks, to roast them inside the fire. After a few minutes of grilling, the old man used a knife to cut them into bite-sized pieces. These round fruits were indigo in colour and sweeter than the chestnuts.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°So, as they say, no plan survive contact with real world,¡± Muzaid the warrior coughed a little, ¡°Simply put, change of plans. Coincidentally, one of Husan¡¯s stuff is close to source of black rock that Ava wants.¡± ¡°No problem Muzaid. Bout time this old man sees new stuff.¡± ¡°No objection either here, Muzaid.¡± ¡°Okay guys. We will be going to Alkharm Wadi, some tens of lis from here.¡± The warrior took a dry stick and drew something on the ground. Ava peered at the drawn diagrams, ¡°Is entering Alkharm Wadi difficult, Brother Muzaid? Full of monsters?¡± ¡°Difficult in sense of getting there. The Wadi didn¡¯t have much monsters but the terrain. Crevasses and jagged rocks.¡± Muzaid drew more as he talked. At this point, Husan had put out the fire and buried the pit, ¡°Ugrh, ravines? This old man¡¯s poor heart isn¡¯t good for such things!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t fret, old man. I¡¯m sure to catch you before you fall.¡± Makya playfully spun some strings, made from fibrous plant matter she got in the oasis. Muzaid finally finished drawing, a route of sorts, ¡°We¡¯ll be safe as long we follow these routes. Besides, our Sand Komodos can hop through it no problem.¡± ¡°Ava asks, is there any mineral vein in Alkharm Wadi?¡± The Post Human shot a random question, not expecting an answer. Surprisingly, Muzaid nodded, ¡°Brother Muzaid had come across some of them but they were mostly red sand, iron rust. No one really wants it.¡± ¡°Ava is just curious.¡± The young girl implied it was just her curiosity, cutting the conversation short. The warrior erased the drawings with his left foot, ¡°Okay. So, let¡¯s go now, guys.¡± Shortly before the team departed, Ava produced a small metallic sphere and threw it to the lake when they weren¡¯t looking. She then jumped to her mount, following Muzaid¡¯s lead. Great sand dunes greeted the party again, unmistakable hallmark of Sama¡¯at Barchans. Whish, whoosh, whish Dry wind blew over the dunes, rolling up grit and sand in barrel-like manner. Further out, some sand devils formed and died, twisting randomly amongst massive barchans. The team traveled along the shades of said dunes, avoiding direct contact with prevailing winds. Their mounts perused the terrain with purchase, clearly had adapted to ever shifting nature of the boundless desert. No talk occurred as the winds were quite strong and full of flying sand that would get into any gaps. It was worse for dunes¡¯ sides exposed to the winds. The Sun had risen to its peak, mid-day. Billowing winds got even drier every second but the party had no choice but to brave it through. The oasis they stayed at was the last one in hundred of lis in this empty quarter of Sama¡¯at Barchans. Life however, was quite tenacious. Ava detected quite a number of lifeforms during the travel, ranging from occasional sand snakes to flash silver ants and rolling tumbleweeds. No vicious monsters were in her range, as if even they had forsaken this place, unwilling to stay nary longer in such harsh conditions. As they went their way, Muzaid seemingly made detours at random directions. Each time the warrior did so, Ava had picked up some kind of fuzzy signature. What was he avoiding from? It was unlike clear presences coming from their initial pursuers, from Kazar City. The Post Human wanted to ask but the surrounding winds made it difficult to talk, let alone opening a mouth. She kept mum and instead waited for the travel to complete. On the other hand, number of pursuers that she tracked steadily decreased with passing time. Whatever Muzaid did, it clearly worked in the favour of the party, in trade of moving through this blasted place. The pursuers¡¯ count didn¡¯t reach zero however, there were still some left. These might be true experts, that can somehow still lock into the party¡¯s position from afar. The party passed by increasing number of stony outcrops, littering the place. Tens of minutes later, great sand dunes had all but disappeared and replaced by gargantuan jagged rocks. Muzaid raised his hand, notifying the party that they had arrived, to edge of Alkharm Wadi. ¡°Guys, let¡¯s rest here.¡± The warrior led the team to one of more secluded places here since the desert winds were ever present. Husan shook his robes, laden with sand, ¡°Peh! Too much sand! Settin¡¯ up a camp, Muzaid?¡± ¡°Not here, Husan. Just a ten minutes break and then we move again.¡± The warrior kept his eyes out, ever vigilant. Ava also shook her robes, removing handfuls of sand, ¡°Brother Muzaid, this is Alkharm Wadi?¡± ¡°One of its many entrances. No one actually knows how big it is.¡± Muzaid darted his eyes over the yonder, his mind calculating something. Makya also glanced around, she had never been to this place, ¡°So this is it? There are no Red Scorpions here, right?¡± ¡°None that I know so far. We just need to be mindful of our steps. It¡¯s long way down.¡± Muzaid pointed to a crevasse just a few steps away from them. Unlike the dunes of Sama¡¯at Barchans, Alkharm Wadi looked like valleys and gulleys of sandstone and gneiss. There was some flowing water but they were largely out of reach, deep inside crisscrossing ravines in the terrain. The winds were chilly instead of dry and full of grit. The Post Human on other hand focused on entirely different matter; she felt the fuzzy signatures had not only increased but also followed the party here. What were they? Were they humans like Shalim or vicious monsters like Thunder Vipers? Ava had no real clue. The young girl felt as if her senses were being jammed by an unknown entity. It could also due to her senses being not attuned enough, not that flexible. Ava remained wordless as she distributed boiled water jars as requested by the party. Kas the rat was unusually alert. Her curiosity prompted her to change her senses from broad to sharp, to a single point. It took some seconds until Ava can catch a glimpse of the fuzzy thing, buried in a nearby sand dune. It didn¡¯t look like a Thunder Viper but instead some kind of weirdly-misshapen fish. She momentarily glanced at its direction before sweeping her sharpened senses around. There were more than ten of them in vicinity, in form of multiple groups. She assessed the situation; in front of the party were odd lifeforms. Farther out were pursuers from Kazar. Pshhhh! Bang! Unwittingly, her prior scan had inevitably triggered the buried creatures in some way; multiple hills of sands started to converge the party from all sides! Ava was first to jolt up, followed by Muzaid and the rest of the party. They adopted fighting stances, immediately. ¡°Gah! I knew this wouldn¡¯t be easy!¡± Muzaid exclaimed, pair of dao hammers at the ready. Husan was next, arming himself with some slabs of rocks he had found lying around, ¡°Thunder Vipers?!¡± ¡°No, they didn¡¯t shoot lightning yet!¡± Makya prepared herself as well, eying some vantage points in the jagged terrain. Boom! The first buried creature burst out. It had thick interlocking plates as armour and rows upon rows of razor-sharp teeth. The fish-like creature opened its mouth wide as it pounced straight at them, at Ava. The Post Human gave a simple reply, she kicked a hard stone to its maw. Gudong! The rock hit dead center, demolishing the creature¡¯s mouth, throat and portion of its body. It got nailed to nearby rock wall but it wasn¡¯t completely crushed. The creature twitched a bit before it died later. More of them burst out from the dunes, bringing onslaught on the party! ¡°Cursed desert, what are they, Muzaid?!¡± Husan was forced to dodge as he found out the creature had cracked the stone slab he held in one hit. The warrior shouted on top of his lungs, ¡°Crescent Sharks! Anyway, don¡¯t meet them head on! They¡¯re strong and fast!¡± ¡°Muzaid! Why your luck¡¯s bad?!¡± Makya threw some rocks, deflecting the trajectories of incoming Crescent Sharks. Muzaid dodged left and right, using his dimmed dao hammers to repel the creatures away, ¡°How would I know?! We¡¯ve just arrived here! Cursed desert!¡± Even their mounts were forced to fight as the Crescent Sharks were more than willing to eat anything that moved. The Sand Komodos copied their masters, using their strong legs to either kick approaching Crescent Sharks or throw stone slabs at the creatures¡¯ direction. Putong! Gabeng! The team had fought off some tens of these vicious monsters and yet no end was in sight. Even more Crescent Sharks showed up, attracted by the conflict! At one point, a zhang-long Crescent Shark aimed its maw at both Husan and Ava, mouth wide enough for both of them! Ava pulled the old man and at the same time produced her dao crossbow, ¡°Old man Husan! Avoid!¡± Kaboom! A shoulder-thick energy bolt exploded from the dao weapon and connected to the waiting maw of the Crescent Shark. It obliterated both the creature and the dao weapon as Ava had loaded more than five dao cores inside the crossbow. The backblast pushed the duo aback. ¡°Ava! Husan!¡± Muzaid frantically swung his dao hammers, more creatures incoming. Makya jumped out of the resultant smoke, ¡°Muzaid! We need to withdraw, now!¡± ¡°But they! They were gone!¡± The warrior vented his rage on the Crescent Sharks, taking more risks to collide with them head-on. The scout female produced a woven rope and lassoed Muzaid out of the way, ¡°We can always look for them later! The dao crossbow isn¡¯t a Fire Talisman! At worst, they are just injured! They must¡¯ve fallen into the ravine!¡± ¡°AHHHH!¡± Muzaid screamed on top of his lungs, unwilling to accept the reality. Whether he liked it or not, he needed to retreat before even more of these Crescent Sharks showed up. They darted out of the stone ridge with the rest of the Sand Komodos. With Makya¡¯s swiftness and string mastery, they moved among rocky chasms and crevices. The frenzied monsters only fell to their deaths. In her heart, Makya hoped Ava and Husan survived the tribulation. C12 - Cavern Drip, drip, drip! The sound of water droplets. Ava opened her eyes and saw black gneiss all around her. There was some light, coming from lichens plastered around this place. She tried to stand up but she slipped into the water. Where is the old man? The Post Human glanced left and right. She recalled that she intentionally overloaded the dao crossbow, just to see what will happen. Evidently it was rather a bad idea as she saw the weapon had totally disintegrated in front of her eyes. Ava put the matter aside for future review as she needed to do something else. Wheeze, wheeze¡­ It was faint but the four armed elder was certainly nearby, at least still breathing. Ava looked upwards; it was quite a fall, she estimated they had fallen by tens of zhangs. Climbing up would be difficult, the surfaces uneven and slippery to touch. What should she do now? The Post Human checked the injuries of her present body; both legs had snapped, five ribs fractured and left arm had entirely torn off. As for the face? Long gashes ran across it, as if someone had taken a bastard knife and viciously carved large portions of her juvenile face. This was the third time she was heavily injured. This body was¡­unreasonably fragile, not to her liking. The Post Human took a deep breath, unwillingly spending her precious quanta reserves. It was inevitable as this body was her sole connection to this world, at this moment. Blub, blub, blub! Blood and fluid, flesh and bones of hers started to accumulate in reverse, regenerating her broken body. Yes, this was both sensation of pain and intrigue as the Post Human had never used a human body for so long before. Bit by bit, her injuries had healed at visible rate. As she had gained a sense of stable footing again, Ava began to first crawl and then carefully walk in the base of the ravine. Husan was not far off, located in a lower area. Thankfully the flowing water wasn¡¯t fast or otherwise he would be swept away, hard to find for Ava. She finally saw the old man and his injuries weren¡¯t light either. His arms were basically in tatters and only bones were left of his legs. Ava was stuck in a dilemma; she could¡¯ve just left the old man to his fate or save him. The Post Human paused and contemplated the options. After a fraction of a second, the young girl disobeyed her own rules and approached Husan. The old man was half-submerged in the water, his blood leaking out everywhere. Ava flexed her short arms; they were finally restored to full functionality. She put them on his shoulders. It pained her to waste quanta like this but she had respect for the old man. He was a good cook and more importantly seen as useful social cover for the Post Human. The same phenomena happened to Husan, his arms started to be reattached and lost flesh grew back. As this wasn¡¯t her own body, Ava can only supplement his blood loss through a different method. She materialized some herbs they got from previous oasis and converted them into functional chemicals, to aid in the old man¡¯s healing. The procedure took tens of minutes. ¡°Khuk¡­HUK HUK!¡± Husan threw up a bloody phlegm. Sharp pain assaulted his mind, ¡°Urgh¡­where¡­where am I?¡± The old man felt his body was aching all over, painful to move, painful to stay still even. His eyelids were heavy and his head was clouded. He felt he was imagining things; he saw a blood-stained torso in front of him. It had two immature curves, two pinkish dots and a belly button? What? Husan struggled to get up, only to hit his head to the wall behind him. He tried again but he felt an invisible force was pushing him down, not allowing him to stand at all. As his senses gradually came to be, the old man clearly sensed two tiny hands were on his shoulders. ¡°Please stay still, Old Man Husan. The treatment is still ongoing.¡± A flat yet childish voice rang in his ears. Husan wanted to muster his strength but his fatigue was overbearing, ¡°Huh...? Is..is that you, young¡­missy?¡± ¡°Yes, it is I, Ava.¡± Ava replied simply, she was still focused to heal the old man. Husan didn¡¯t know to either cry or laugh; so, they had definitely fallen in this ravine and the young girl was currently trying to save him. He lamented his fate; he wasn¡¯t as unlucky as before. What in the desert is actually going on? Husan closed his eyes, stabilizing his breath. Ava¡¯s golden irises seemingly glowed in this dark place, ¡°It is done, Old Man Husan.¡± ¡°Cough¡­so¡­where¡¯s Muzaid and Makya? Kas?¡± Husan pushed himself to lean to an adjacent rock¡¯s face, not wanting to trouble his savior. Ava shook her head, beads of water falling from her short golden hairs, ¡°Ava do not know. We must¡¯ve been separated. We fall in here. Ava is sorry for this.¡± ¡°Ah¡­don¡¯t worry about it, young missy. This grandfather doesn¡¯t¡­blame you for it. What happened, had happened.¡± Husan took a deep sigh, ¡°Well¡­put up some clothes first.¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± Out of the sudden, extraneous water on their bodies were streamed away by a mysterious force. Ava snapped her fingers, fresh robes appearing out of thin air. She gave the larger one to Husan. The young girl also handed some sticks to Husan as walking aid. This place was quite slippery and Husan had not yet fully recovered his lost vigour. They fumbled around in shallow flowing waters, trying to get their current bearings. Ava¡¯s sharp senses eventually led him away. They found an entrance to a cavern that was at least not flooded by water. It was damp, a bit flat and lightly illuminated by some glowing lichens. Both young girl and old man dragged themselves into refuge of the cavern. Some winds blew past, bringing constant coldness. Husan can¡¯t help than shiver but Ava remained unperturbed. The Post Human noticed this and thus selected a level ground of some size. She stomped it once, creating a fire pit. The young girl withdrew some dry sticks from her independent space and began igniting them. ¡°Cough¡­thanks¡­¡± Husan struggled to talk, he was wheezing until now. Ava produced several Pink Pad Cacti fruits and put them in the fire, ¡°Old man Husan, please do not talk. Your injuries are not light.¡±Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. The four armed elder nodded once before dozing off. This was highly strenuous. Ava¡¯s help was limited to restore his broken limbs and not his lost physical and mental strength. The pair stayed still as heat from the flames slowly warmed them up. Smoke from the fire was drafted. Husan¡¯s nose was tickled, ¡°You¡­ng missy¡­what are..mngh?!¡± ¡°Ava is giving Old Man Husan some cooked cacti fruit.¡± The young girl pushed a now cooled, bite sized roasted cacti fruit into his mouth. Husan wasn¡¯t sure but it tasted like nectar of the gods. For his tired and aching body, this fruit was a powerful elixir, granting him some semblance of strength from its generous content of sugar. He ceased his resistance and instead slowly chewed, savoring its rich taste and texture. It was good to be alive! Husan chewed more pieces of the fruit, until he was capable to lift one of his arms to tell Ava that he can do the rest. This tribulation was quite daunting, he was sure that they fell by more than tens of zhangs. Fall that would usually kill ordinary people. Tens of minutes later, Husan was all warmed up and able to move as usual. He got up and saw the young girl sitting by the fire, timidly eating some cacti fruits and fish. Wait, fish? Husan then realized they fell into a water-logged ravine. Of course, there would be some fish! ¡°Do Old Man want some fish?¡± Ava handed one stick of it to him. Husan thickened his face, he was humbled by her, ¡°Uh¡­sure. So uh¡­young missy¡­¡± ¡°So you can move again, that is great. Ava is not sure; Ava is not familiar with this place.¡± Ava had predicted his question. Husan frowned a bit as he chewed on the fish, ¡°Hmm¡­so we fell from up there¡­and end up here?¡± ¡°That is correct. Again, Ava is sorry for putting Old Man Husan in danger.¡± The young girl put the stuff on her hands away and slightly bowed at him. Husan frantically waved his arms, ¡°No, no, no, no! Like Muzaid said, we¡¯re altogether in this! The most we can do is just survive, so we can meet up with them again.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Eat more cacti fruits, old man.¡± Ava lifted her head and proceeded to offer more of those indigo-coloured fruits. Both old man and young girl sat down again, eating food for quite some time until the fire almost turned into embers. The Post Human got up and placed her hands on the cavern¡¯s walls, her sharp senses turned broad. This cavern was quite complex, she cannot map it all. ¡°Young missy, since there¡¯s wind, there must be an exit, right?¡± Husan spoke up. Ava found herself agreeing with him, ¡°Old Man Husan is right. Wind must not only come from up since this smoke go somewhere else.¡± True enough, smoke from their firepit didn¡¯t actually rise up but instead flowed deeper inside the cavern. Another impetus was provided by her brief scan, there seemed to be no vicious monsters in here, at least in this entrance of the cavern. She decided to move deeper in it. The old man followed suit, entering the dimly-lit cavern. Majority of the rocks here were smooth, suggesting this cavern was once an underground river. For some reason, the river ceased and now it was largely water-free. There was remnant water, dripping from the ceiling. Both persons navigated the cavern, encountering sparse lifeforms but abundance of forks and turns. If not for Ava¡¯s wide senses, Husan could¡¯ve been lost and starved to death in this damp place. Lichens however were ever constant, giving them light in most of secluded places. Husan and Ava then stopped, each of their gaze locked on something respectively. Husan had spotted a glowing, five-petalled flower while Ava encountered some kind of golden metal vein. Each discovery was roughly facing each other; flower at the left, metal vein on the right. Ava however snapped her gaze to the flower instead, ¡°Old Man Husan, this is Aqua Green Lily?¡± ¡°Huh, so young missy knew about it. Yeah, it¡¯s.¡± Husan nodded at her. While the flower wasn¡¯t exactly rare, getting them was the difficult part. They tend to grow in places like in this cavern. Ava patted the old man as he was somewhat dazed, ¡°Old Man Husan? Are you okay?¡± ¡°Huh! That was close¡­thanks, young missy.¡± The four-armed elder rapidly backed away. He was almost bewitched by the flower! The young girl looked at the plant. It didn¡¯t look any special except its glow, ¡°Does Old Man Husan need this flower?¡± ¡°No, young missy. We uh¡­better leave it alone. We don¡¯t have an Herbalist to take it.¡± Husan shook his head. He had learnt his lesson, not to underestimate plants he found randomly. Ava nodded at him and then moved to the metal vein instead, ¡°Ava acknowledges.¡± ¡°Oh? Almost thought it was gold! So, a fool¡¯s gold.¡± Husan rubbed his eyes, turns out the metal vein wasn¡¯t gold. The Post Human just put her hands on it, not minding him, ¡°Ava knows. Ava is just curious.¡± It was all but over in a moment; the young girl then withdrew her hands and beckoned Husan to move deeper in the cavern. What else could be lying in wait, in this unexplored cavern? They moved in accordance of the wind, avoiding tunnels and routes that didn¡¯t have any. They saw decreased amount of lichens and bug life and, instead increasing amount of jagged and sharp rocks. This area must be the place where the now dried river in the cavern, had not flowed. The pair carefully moved in the tunnel; there¡¯s no telling what dangers were here. Ksh, ksh, ksh! They finally spotted the first vicious monster here. It was a half-zhang long creature with many sharp legs. Husan raised one of his arms, telling Ava that they should go look for another route. Trying to fight it while not knowing how many of them were here would be suicide. The young girl accepted his suggestion as even she was uncertain on what will happen. This cavern system was seriously complex and her detection range was limited. On other hand, she had picked up no less than three mineral veins but they didn¡¯t fit on what she looked for. Both young girl and old man continued their exploration, passing god knows how many detours and turns. Some of the tunnels had hordes of bats, others either deep water or blocked. Ava could¡¯ve just drilled through but she refrained, concerned of potential collapse. Husan leaned close to a gneiss wall, ¡°Uh¡­let me rest a little bit, young missy.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Should Ava set up fire?¡± Ava sat on the cold ground as well. The four-armed old man shook his head, ¡°No, no need. Just give this old man some breather. And some of those fruits, young missy.¡± Ava gave him additional pieces of the cooked and chilled Pink Pad Cacti fruits. How long they had been in here? Twenty minutes? Hours? Lack of Sun made tracking time difficult; they weren¡¯t sure whether it was day or night at the moment. Ava nibbled on the fruits too. The young girl thought of something, ¡°Old man, Ava detected another empty space. It is couple of zhangs away.¡± ¡°What else is there?¡± Husan was gloomy. They had entered scores of such places but there were no breakthroughs. They¡¯re still underground in this cavern. The young girl grabbed a random rock and scribbled on the rocky floor, ¡°An air well. Ava felt wind flowing upwards in it.¡± ¡°Huh, let just try it. Nothing¡¯s better anyway.¡± He accepted the gamble. One more void¡­Husan propelled himself up with his four arms. The pair left the scene and entered a different part of the cavern. More lichens could be seen but there was little water here. On the other hand, they started to see more and more polished rock pillars. At some point, such pillars turned out to be some kind of crystalline stuff. Husan tasted the air. It was surprisingly warm, not damp, ¡°Where in the desert are, we?¡± The appearance of such crystals had attracted Ava, ¡°Old man, Ava felt there are some kind of energy coming from them.¡± ¡°Them? Hmm¡­¡± Husan scratched his head. These crystals looked familiar but he can¡¯t put a finger on it. The Post Human ignored the crystals for now and pointed upwards, ¡°Old man, further ahead is the air well Ava mentioned. It is at least, straight up.¡± ¡°Oh, we had arrived?¡± The elder clicked his tongue. He had completely lost track of time. The air well was located on the ceiling of this space, flanked by numerous crystalline pillars. Each pillar was coloured dark purple and gave out gentle lights. Ava looked up; the air well itself was full of similar crystals. There were no stable footings in sight, slippery all the way. C13 - Friends Husan gazed upwards of said ceiling, into the air well, ¡°Hmm¡­how do you even climb it? Young missy, how bout we climb back where we fell?¡± ¡°Ava do not recommend it. The ravine is complex and had some lifeforms in it. Climb or fight, not both.¡± The young girl grabbed a random stone and began scratching some lines on the damp floor. The old man glanced at her drawings; it looked complex all right, ¡°Uh, why don¡¯t we just try? Avoid such creatures too?¡± ¡°Ava can fight. Old Man Husan?¡± Ava stared at him with vacant eyes. ¡°Uh..maybe, maybe not.¡± The old man tried to flex some of his joints but they were still hurting, ¡°Is this air well safe though?¡± ¡°Ava do not know.¡± The Post Human admitted that even she was unsure of the path up above. Both remained silent; Husan was wracking his brain for a plan while Ava was just observing him. As Ava had implied, she could leave but Husan can¡¯t; the old man was still somewhat injured. Leaving meant making the old man fend for himself, in a cavern full of unknowns. As she had saved Husan once, she shouldn¡¯t do that and instead see it until the end. This also served as good training for her, on deepening her knowledge of natives in this world. Observe their thought processes and actions in order to devise plans on handling them. Husan recalled her interaction with Kas, ¡°Oh young missy, you talk to animals, right? How bout go ask those bats we avoided? And maybe those many-legged creatures too?¡± ¡°Ava can try. But no promises. Not every animal is willing to talk, like Crescent Sharks.¡± She nodded at him as he coincidentally had a similar idea. However, he was a bit off as Ava had other idea in mind. Husan announced another bombshell, ¡°Hmm now I remember, these purple crystals amplify dao weapons, make them stronger or something.¡± ¡°Amplify? How?¡± Ava¡¯s interest was piqued. She saw similar stuff back in Akeila¡¯s place but she didn¡¯t pay it much attention. The young girl was busy adapting to Kazar at that time. Husan shook his head, ¡°That¡¯s all I know, young missy. This old man¡¯s no Forgesmith, just a brewer!¡± ¡°Oh. What if these are connected to Aqua Green Lily?¡± Ava worked up a new plan in her mind. Husan scratched his head, ¡°I don¡¯t know either but doesn¡¯t hurt to try. So, anything this old man can help?¡± ¡°Old man Husan can bring Ava around.¡± She decided to place her trust in the old man, to carry out a new plan. Husan agreed to it since he didn¡¯t have any plan anyway, ¡°Uh okay. While this old man can¡¯t fight, you bet this grandfather can do it no sweat!¡± ¡°Ava expresses gratitude. We will begin soon.¡± The young girl extended her left palm at the old man. A blue flash washed over him in a fraction of a second, under his consciousness limit. Shoom! Ava had confirmed none of their pursuers from Kazar City were here, prompting her to expand her range of actions. She shifted her palm to a nearby crystalline pillar, deconstructing it and leaving some dust in its place. The young girl continued to do so at tens of other pillars here. The old man kept mum, not overly surprised as he saw how Ava had turned rocks into stone javelins with a single kick before. She must had cultivated some kind of secret earth arts. Husan then put Ava on his shoulders as previously agreed, to visit other places of the cavern. He wasn¡¯t sure on why Ava wanted him to carry her around but he guessed the young girl might be planning to do something big, overextending herself to cast some great magic. The four-armed elder felt another wave of respect to her as she was willing to go so far for him. The pair initially visited places with number of metallic veins among their walls but Husan didn¡¯t notice anything was amiss; Ava had just placed her hands on said veins but that was it. When they reached the tunnel with a horde of bats, Ava jumped off and stomped the ground. Crack, crack, clank! An odd cylinder thing, made by combination of dull metal and previously seen purple crystals emerged out of the ground. What is she planning to do now? Husan determined he should just ignore such strange contraptions and instead focus on getting Ava around the cavern. They visited a number of similar tunnels and each time Ava got off to summon such cylinders at their entrances respectively. Ava told him to also enter the place full of Aqua Green Lilies but the old man refused. The young girl got off as usual but then decided to accept his objection. Ava progressively seemed tired, further affirming the old man¡¯s speculation that she was assembling something grand. She got to the point where she can¡¯t stand but she summoned those cylinders anyway. It was a big gamble; both would be defenseless until Ava can recover. Her voice had degraded to a whisper, ¡°This¡­is the last one, Old Man.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t talk, young missy. Why go so far, for me?¡± Husan felt pity. She was so young yet went all out. They only been friends for a couple of weeks, not years. Ava almost dozed off, ¡°A¡­plan. Now we just¡­wait.¡± ¡°Wait? Wait for what? Young missy?¡± Husan was frightened as Ava suddenly fell in his arms, head unsteady. The young girl was still breathing albeit weak. Husan can only hope for the best and protect her from any danger in this cavern. For once he felt powerless, unable to change anything. Nevertheless, he was still living. That¡¯s right! Even if he cannot fight as good as her, he still had his life. He would defend her to the death. Even until this juncture, Husan put his trust into Ava¡¯s unknown plan. As he went to a new direction pointed by her, the path behind him changed. They morphed and twisted in real time, with some kind of protrusions. What is actually going on? What had I got myself into? As if she knew what was on his mind, Ava whispered to him, her eyes closed, ¡°This¡­is a preparation. Against chaos.¡±Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Chaos? Are you telling this old man that¡­?¡± The old man fell on his butt, nearly dropping Ava. Thick metallic doors emerged from the cavern walls around them and slammed shut! The old man almost jumped but he found his right shoulder was drenched. Ava? Please, please don¡¯t scare this old man¡­ He carefully put Ava on the ground, her legs were wet. The old man torn open his robe, some for wiping and others to keep her warm in this cold place. He tried to sense her pulse and was relieved that the young girl was still hanging on. A faint quake could be felt, just below his feet. Heavens! Don¡¯t tell me she plans to blow all of these up?! The old man was out of his mind. There was no way to escape now, blocked at all sides! He sprang into action, using his body to shield Ava for any possible falling rocks. After several tense minutes, there was nothing happening. Just a slight tremor and then it suddenly died down. I shouldn¡¯t be surprised but¡­ Husan was quite confused, not knowing what to do next. ¡°At ease, Old Man Husan. Ava is¡­just tired. Let Ava rest.¡± Her childish voice calmed the old man. Husan backed away, ¡°Uh¡­right young missy. So, uh¡­what¡¯s next?¡± ¡°Wait. Wait until Ava can walk.¡± The young girl answered simply before seemingly fallen into deep sleep. Husan had millions of questions in his mind but she was right; he can only wait on her. The old man thought of starting a fire but decided against it since this place didn¡¯t seem to have any wind. He withdrew some purple crystals given by her and arranged them close to the girl. Hopefully this works¡­ At least the crystals were always warm and it didn¡¯t seem appropriate for him to hug the defenseless little girl. The old man then shifted his attention to steel doors blocking their way, both in front and the back. What are we waiting for? What are these for?! Husan sat next to a rock with glowing lichen on it while Ava was located nearby. The crystals surrounding her made her as if an immortal fairy had passed away but the old man quelled the thought. Ava is still alive! I am still alive! They continued to wait, unknown for how long. It was an unease silence, as if all sounds in the world were eaten by something. Husan mumbled and then made poems, this stillness stifling. Even with strict rationing, he had almost run out of fruits given by Ava. He looked at her, at least the young girl was breathing. He was at his wits¡¯ end till a finger touched his head from behind, ¡°Woah?! Who dares?!¡± ¡°At ease. It is done, Old Man Husan.¡± It turned out to be Ava, standing as if nothing was wrong. Husan can barely hide his surprise, ¡°Wait. You, he, what?¡± As the four-armed old man was still dazed, the steel doors surrounding them parted away and disappeared into the cavern walls. Ava beckoned the old man to snap out it, leave from here. Husan¡¯s initial imagination was correct; the cavern did turn out silent for some reason. Fwoosh¡­. The sound of winds however, were present but he didn¡¯t hear any other noises. What did this girl do? He followed Ava to a different tunnel, one that he didn¡¯t know at all. Ava nevertheless can navigate their twist and turns as if she knew this place at the back of her hands. She raised her hand, ¡°Let¡¯s stop here Old Man Husan. Ava is thankful for Old Man¡¯s help.¡± ¡°Uhh¡­young missy, before that¡­maybe you could spare this old man some fruits?¡± Husan¡¯s stomach unceremoniously grumbled. It was true they were stuck in one place for a long time. Ava stopped in her tracks, ¡°Ava confirms. Here are they.¡± ¡°This old man is sorry to trouble young missy.¡± Husan held his head low as he was deeply embarrassed. Usually you don¡¯t see a grownup adult asking food from a child! It was also partly due to Ava¡¯s miscalculation as she didn¡¯t expect the old man to eat much during initial moments of their isolation. She noted this experience, that no lifeform would be the same. Each of them has their own unique behaviors even within the same species. The Post Human sat on the side, waiting him to finish the given provisions. Ava was thoughtful enough to also give some boiled water to the old man, lest he choke himself. It was only natural for starved people to eat as much as they can when given the chance to do so. She got up and patted one of his free arms, ¡°Old Man, there is no rush. Why chew too fast?¡± ¡°Cough¡­this old man was just trying to get stronger so I won¡¯t drag young missy down.¡± Husan stopped chewing, faking a cough, ¡°Besides, Muzaid must be crazy now, trying to look for us down here. We can¡¯t let them wait.¡± ¡°Ava had it all planned. Let us go, Old Man.¡± Ava shook her head and then tugged him. The old man tried to resist but got dragged along anyway. The young girl led the old man to particularly large space in the caverns. Where I had seen this space before¡­humm, wait, what?! A quarter-long zhang creature appeared in front of Husan, along with its thousands of friends from nearby holes. The old man was rendered speechless. Ava remained nonchalant, walking forward to one of these creatures. It had a black lustrous body and tens of legs. Its pincers looked like it can snap normal adults into halves. Yes, this creature was the exact same one the pair had consciously evaded in their initial exploration. Husan slapped his face, ¡°Uh¡­. young missy¡­what is exactly happening?¡± ¡°Old Man Husan said to talk to animals, right? Ava did.¡± The young girl moved closer to them, to the largest one in the group. Smaller ones did not impede her at all but instead parted away as if they were welcoming her as their monarch. Husan wanted to go and grab her out of there but truth was stranger than fiction, ¡°So¡­. young missy did? How¡­¡± When he thought about it, those strange objects, those Aqua Green Lilies¡­it turned out this child had done something titanic this time! This must be one of her great magics, taking her all to cast. Should I be surprised? Husan was counting his luck, fortunate to travel with her! Clank, clank, clank! One of odd cylinder-thing he saw when escorting Ava throughout the cavern emerged and assembled itself from the ground. The cylinder glowed azure with the bewitching colour of Aqua Green Lily, which flower was inside its receptacle. His first thought was to escape from it but he can¡¯t leave Ava, not now. ¡°They¡¯re not uh¡­dangerous, right?¡± Husan kept his distance, preferring to be in denial. The Post Human went as far to pat the head of the creature, not minding its horrifying appearance, ¡°As long they are in range and Ava can talk to them.¡± ¡°So¡­what are they? Won¡¯t they bite this old man?¡± Husan was still skeptical. He told her to talk to the cavern bats, not making friends with these big insects! They looked like they eat humans for a living! The young girl gave some Pink Pad Cacti fruits to the creature and it ate them docilely, ¡°If Ava had a word for it, Old Man can call it Azure Centipedes? Ava do not know but Ava befriended them, most of them. Ava friends here would not hurt either of us.¡± ¡°Most of them? Are young missy telling this old man that there are more of their kind out there?¡± Husan steeled his resolve to stay. Ava was right, these insects kept their positions. Ava moved back to the old man while the rest of the centipedes parted away and seemingly bowed at her, ¡°Yes, Old Man. They told Ava there are other families like them, living in this Alkharm Wadi. They do not like each other.¡± ¡°Uhh¡­okay..let¡¯s calm down¡­¡± Husan hyperventilated a bit before taking a deep breath, ¡°So if young missy can talk to them¡­any chance we can ask them a way out of this place?¡± ¡°Ava did. But as Ava said, other Big Centipede families don¡¯t like them. They fight.¡± Her golden eyes flickered. Husan scratched his nose, ¡°Um¡­what about the bats? Did young missy talked to them too?¡± ¡°Ava did too. Same result.¡± The young girl tilted her head, ¡°But some of Ava¡¯s bat friends got outside.¡± ¡°Really?!¡± The four-armed elder almost hugged Ava in joy but stopped since she did have these centipedes as her friends, ¡°Did young missy was able to find Muzaid? Makya?¡± ¡°Ava bat friends are still trying. It won¡¯t be long, Old Man.¡± She nodded at him. Husan can barely quell his excitement, ¡°So¡­what should we do next?¡± ¡°Old Man Husan, we prepare for war.¡± She gave a simple reply. Ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh!!!! The surrounding centipede monsters became frenzied, dunking their head up and down, flexing their curved tails side to side! Then they dispersed, like water poured to a dry desert. Is this beginning of chaos? Heavens! Husan jumped in fright, almost colliding with the ceiling. C14 - Lesson Shup! Just before Husan hit the ceiling, a few Azure Centipedes that left behind to guard him and Ava shot numerous webs. They pulled down the old man until his feet touched the ground. Two more of these insects moved in, cutting the webs and rapidly weaved a robe on Husan. It took several seconds for the elder to process what happened after the centipedes returned to their initial positions, ¡°Huh¡­when did a robe¡­isn¡¯t this old man shirtless?¡± ¡°A meeting gift from Ava¡¯s friends, Old Man.¡± Ava nodded approvingly at the centipedes with a blank face. Husan gasped in astonishment, he didn¡¯t even notice it! ¡°Huh! Okay¡­as young missy said...¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go Old Man. We have a long work ahead of us.¡± Ava dragged the dumbstruck Husan, ¡°We will talk as we go.¡± ¡°Okay. For starters, young missy¡­this old man can walk just fine.¡± Husan laughed it off. He asked in an awkward tone, ¡°So¡­uh¡­what¡¯s the situation?¡± ¡°What Old Man Husan saw what was left of them. They were bullied for a long time.¡± Ava brought the group deeper in the caverns, ¡°They have many bullies, like other Centipedes and bats.¡± ¡°What¡¯s left of them? Young missy¡­ they numbered in thousands.¡± Husan didn¡¯t believe it. Their numbers were enough to make any grownup shudder at first sight. The golden-haired girl led them to the space where she and Husan had been initially isolated from the rest of the caverns, ¡°Their bullies are at least ten-fold their numbers. And since Ava friends lost their Broodmother, every death cannot be replaced.¡± ¡°So, to say, if there are nothing to be done, Azure Centipedes would die off completely?¡± Husan never expected he could feel pity for monsters. Usually he would just kill them, no questions asked. Ava motioned her hand, dismissing most of the Azure Centipedes guarding them, ¡°Old Man is right. Ava decided to help them. We help them, they help us. As Sister Makya once said, this is a cycle.¡± ¡°Even if it¡¯s that way¡­how do we even begin?¡± Husan shook his head, this was too absurd, ¡°Young missy said their bullies are in the millions? We can¡¯t win against that.¡± ¡°They have Ava and you, Old Man. Their bullies do not.¡± Ava puffed her chest up, signifying great pride. Husan faked a cough, ¡°But this old man can¡¯t fight¡­young missy can. How can this old man help?¡± ¡°Knowledge is power. Ava can fight but Ava do not know everything.¡± Her stomp created a table from the cavern¡¯s floor. Are you telling me that now? Husan felt incredulous, ¡°Uhh¡­sure¡­so what can this old man really do then?¡± ¡°Old Man can start giving them lessons on stuff? What Old Man think is best.¡± The young girl created chairs out of rock next, inviting the old man to sit. The four armed elder was in deep thought, ¡°Hmm¡­well this old man know brewing the best. But centipedes don¡¯t drink do they?¡± ¡°Ava knows Old Man Husan is good at finding food and plants. There¡¯s no rush, we can take it as we go.¡± The young girl tapped one of his arms, breaking his reverie. Husan regained his senses, ¡°That¡¯s¡­right. This old man isn¡¯t definitely under pressure, haha!¡± As the pair were exchanging information back and forth, an Azure Centipede from outside greeted them with a shrill. It lowered its body at Ava, seemingly communicated with her in ways that Husan cannot understand. Ava nodded at it and the centipede left not long after. ¡°What happened, young missy?¡± Husan tried to guess the message brought by the insect. Was it a good or bad news or both? Ava glanced at the centipedes guarding the pair and left the space, ¡°Ava friends lost their only source of food to Black-Yellow Centipedes just now. So now Old Man can help them.¡± ¡°Me? This old man? What do they even eat?¡± Husan arched his eyebrows. This is too fast! What do they expect out of me? He unconsciously touched his neck. Ava moved to a different part of the cavern, with some running water, ¡°Like us, Old Man. They are not picky. To survive in this dark place, they can¡¯t just rely on one kind of food. But now it is different as Black-Yellow Centipedes stole all of their food.¡± ¡°Uh¡­they won¡¯t eat us, right?¡± The old man silently put up his guard. Who knows when these creatures started to turn on them? Ava tilted her head, ¡°Old Man, we help them, they help us. We are in this altogether.¡± ¡°Right¡­so why are we here, young missy?¡± Husan was still a bit skeptical but he hid it. Ava pointed out with one of her small fingers, ¡°This is the place when we first fell. There are some fishes in the water and some plants. Ava can get their food but Ava is only one.¡± ¡°So, you want this old man to teach them now?¡± Husan got the hint. He wasn¡¯t entirely sure of the idea as he had never known centipedes the size of small infants were able to fish or swim. Ava snapped her fingers and one of their Azure Centipede entourage splashed in the water, ¡°They can swim just fine, Old Man. What are your thoughts?¡± Husan stilled for a moment, ¡°Fishing¡­but it doesn¡¯t look there¡¯s lot of fish for all of them. How bout some farming?¡± ¡°That¡¯s what Ava thinks too. There are fishes but there are not a lot. We have thousands of mouths to feed.¡± Ava nodded at the old man. The young girl however didn¡¯t know which plants were suitable for the Azure Centipedes. As they paced their thoughts, three Azure Centipedes emerged nearby. One of them was heavily injured, left with half of its body and mandibles missing. The two more fortunate ones brought their kin in front of Ava. They laid low and trembled, to beseech her to save their kin. Husan almost puked of the ghastly sight, the centipede¡¯s azure ichor bled everywhere, ¡°Huh¡­their bullies are vicious.¡± ¡°Yes Old Man. Kill or be killed. But they have Ava. Ava can make them better while Old Man can teach them.¡± The Post Human put her hands on its head. Next was all but a miracle; there was no replacing its lost body half but the centipede stopped writhing. Its bleeding stopped and its cracked carapace had healed.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Husan was amazed; not only she shown kindness to him but also on these monsters, ¡°Okay. This old man might have just a thing for them.¡± ¡°Ava is thankful for Old Man. Ava friends are thankful too.¡± She nodded at him and so did the Azure Centipedes that were guarding them. The three visiting Azure Centipedes stood low until Ava waved her sleeves, for them to not stand in ceremony. They swayed their curved tails and then left before Ava can heal the rest. In a way, these centipedes were telling her that only big injuries were worth her saving grace. Husan paused in silence as he watched the monsters interact with Ava. Who is she really? Why didn¡¯t she do the same thing with Red Scorpions? Or Crescent Sharks? He only felt dizzy the more he thought of it. The old man then entered the shallow waters, to calm his mind. Ava noticed his action, ¡°What is Old Man planning to do?¡± ¡°I¡­well, just wetting this old man¡¯s feet, haha!¡± He forced a laugh until he placed his gaze on a glowing lichen near the shore, ¡°Wait, do Azure Centipedes eat lichens?¡± Ava glanced at one of their Azure Centipedes escorts, ¡°They once did but now they eat cave bats and sometimes fish. So Old Man suggest to farm lichen?¡± ¡°Just a suggestion, young missy. Maybe this moss too?¡± Husan recovered a greenish rock from the waters, ¡°This old man once fell into a qanat by mistake and got trapped. I survived by eating moss in it until I got out. Taste¡¯s terrible but still¡¯s something.¡± The Azure Centipede guards shrilled upon seeing Ava entering the waters but she waved her hands, not to worry. The young girl copied Husan, ¡°Ava confirms. So, this moss grows together with glowing lichen over there. Lichen provide some light, moss grows.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, young missy. If enough moss grows, fishes can be put to tend them. Take some bits periodically, balance¡¯s maintained. Just that old man¡¯s unsure if they can grow fast, to feed Azure Centipedes now.¡± Husan agreed with her assessment. Ava stomped inside the water, sending some splashes around, ¡°Ava will work on it, Old Man.¡± ¡°S¡¯kay young missy. So, what else? Azure Centipedes can dig, right?¡± Husan was puzzled by her action but on second thought, it might be just her way to invoke one of her great magics. The young girl beckoned their Azure Centipede guards to enter the waters, ¡°Ava confirms. Ava have been telling them to dig around, make forts, delay their bullies.¡± ¡°Uh-hum. What about Ava¡¯s bat friends?¡± Husan decided to leave the waters, let the approaching Azure Centipedes do their things. Ava suddenly raised her hands and stared to a certain direction, ¡°Old Man Husan, get back to our previous room.¡± ¡°What¡¯s happe-¡± Before he could finish his sentence, Azure Centipedes in the water leaped out and shot webs at him. They dragged the old man along as they scurried back into the cavern. Crack, crack, clank! Ava jumped out as well, summoning one of her strange contraptions when she landed on the shore. The cylinder immediately let out an azure-coloured pulse from its mounted Aqua Green Lily flower. The rest of Azure Centipedes in the area rapidly assumed combat stances. Swish¡­ Ava and the centipedes moved closer to the cylinder she had summoned from the ground. There was only the sound of whistling winds at the moment. The young girl and remaining Azure Centipedes slowly backed themselves to a nearby wall, with the azure cylinder in front. Pscht! One unfortunate Azure Centipede was penetrated by something. Ava and the rest rapidly went into action; Ava kicked several rocks while the centipedes shot numerous webs. It all missed save one lucky web shot that had slowed the creature. It bulged big before exploding. Weng, weng, weng!!!! A black cloud burst forth from the exploded Azure Centipede. These new entrees droned menacingly in front of the young girl before splitting up to kill the survivor centipedes. Ava quickly stomped around, creating earthen walls to protect the survivors from this new threat. One by one, remaining Azure Centipedes retreated with timely help from the young girl. However, her reach was limited; two more Azure Centipedes had fallen prey to this new intruder. Ava punched her summoned cylinder, sending out another azure-coloured pulse. This momentarily stunned the attackers and revealed them; they were Javalan Flies that had adapted to live in Alkharm Wadi. They had pointy heads, faster wings and smaller bodies. They burrowed and laid eggs inside their victims, which rapidly hatch into more of their kin! The result was pretty clear; three Azure Centipedes had died while the Javalan Flies swarm had tripled in numbers. Ava had calculated that this was a losing battle. She urged the survivors to run while she kept the swarm at bay. Every loss meant gain for the damned flies! The centipedes reluctantly left but they didn¡¯t have much choice; they were ill-matched with the vicious flies from the beginning. Ava made her move as soon as the last centipede had managed to escape from sight. The cylinder she summoned uprooted itself and followed her. Keqiang, Keqiang! Without any other target in sight, the incoming fly swarm focused their attack on Ava but they were completely repelled by the azure-field emitted by her floating cylinder. However, it only intensified their rage and attacks as they failed again and again in harming the young girl. Fwip, fwip, fwip! Ava¡¯s gamble had worked; some of them dropped dead due to severe exhaustion for chasing her for a long time. The remaining flies however punctured through their dead kin to replenish their depleted energies. There were less flies now but the survivors were the hardiest. Splash! After dozens of twists and turns, Ava led them to a relatively narrow corridor filled with some water. The walls changed as she ran through it, modified to become sturdier. She stomped twice; the first created a stone wall behind the group and another spread ripples on the water. She quickly entered the last twisted path in her escape, causing the swarm to lose their bearings as they didn¡¯t saw where Ava had gone. The cylinder accompanied her broke down and entered the earth as she stomped the ground. A stone wall emerged to seal the flies. Gudong! The ground trembled as Ava put her hands on the stone wall. She waited a bit and then turned the said wall into dust. Mist blew out of the corridor, leaving paralyzed Javalan Flies on the damp ground. Her odd cylinder reassembled and emitted an azure-coloured pulse on them. Weng, weng, weng! The pursuers assembled themselves down low, bodies trembling. Their eyes had changed from reddish to azure, the colour of bright cylinder object floating behind them. Ava raised her hand and they answered her call. They flew back to whence they came, to do her biddings. She raised her hand yet again, assuring Azure Centipedes in the background that she was all right. The centipedes shrilled as they went closer to her, looking at her from head to toe, to make sure she didn¡¯t have any injuries. Ava waved her sleeves, signifying it was no big deal. The centipedes circled some distance from her and dispersed some time later after they were satisfied. Ava begun to think; as the former Javalan Flies had lifespan in matter of days, something probably had spurned them on. They had used a borrowed knife to deal with her. Unfortunately, these unknown opponents had met Ava and lost said proverbial knife to her. She went through her mental list; Black-Yellow Centipedes weren¡¯t particularly known for their cunningness while Moss Worms weren¡¯t smart enough. This might be a new contender. Whomever that were, they were probably the culprit behind Azure Centipedes¡¯ recent losses as Ava had noticed too many coincidental patterns. A spy amongst Azure Centipedes ranks? Unlikely as she knew each and every one of existing Azure Centipedes under her command. She showed her face back to the room where once she isolated herself and Husan, ¡°Old Man Husan, nothing strange is coming your way, correct?¡± ¡°Uhmm¡­no, nothing. This old man is certainly not terrified of some big centipedes, haha.¡± Husan nervously laughed. Of course, any sane person would find it rather daunting to have four big centipedes the size of dogs watching your every move. Ava peered at them and they lowered their heads, ¡°Ava confirms. Just now Ava ran into some Javalan Flies.¡± ¡°Javalan Flies? In here?¡± The old man wore look of disbelief. He still remembered that time when he was pummeled by those nasty flying buggers. Ava created a stone chair for herself and moved closer to the table in center of the room, ¡°Ava confirms. A more difficult type as they burrow inside their victims to lay eggs. Then more Javalan Flies burst open from their victims.¡± ¡°Really? Ugh¡­¡± Husan rapidly quelled his thoughts, ¡°Young missy is all right, right?¡± ¡°Ava is fine, Old Man. Our opponents have increased.¡± Ava tapped the table, creating various animated stone statues on them. Husan crossed his arms, ¡°Uh¡­this is certainly difficult, young missy. So, we identified one opponent and there¡¯s two more unknown ones¡­¡± C15 - Consult Husan watched the stone statues moved and ebbed across the stone table, ¡°If this old man is to guess, these show what are around us, right young missy?¡± ¡°Old Man is half correct. There are still some unknowns that Ava encountered.¡± The young girl shook her head at the four-armed elder. Even so, Husan was surprised yet again. He had never heard of something like this, let alone seeing it personally. Anyone with similar ability would be highly valuable as they can help their peers in planning for currently developing situation. Knowing was indeed half of the battle. This might be one of her strange powers again. He left his thoughts at that and changed the topic, ¡°By the way, young missy isn¡¯t going to look for black rock?¡± ¡°Ava friends are looking for it so there is no problem. What about Old Man material request?¡± She answered his question with another question. When he thought of it, Ava did have thousands of Azure Centipedes that can do so. Her question however made him felt awkward, ¡°Uh..bout that¡­this old man can just wait. There¡¯s no rush as young missy once said.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Ava want an opinion from Old Man.¡± The young girl tapped the table again, changing its scene. Husan raised his eyebrows, ¡°What¡¯s it, young missy?¡± Just before Ava talked, a small bat flew into the room. The guarding Azure Centipedes were startled a bit but then settled down. Ava glanced to her left and a stone pillar emerged from the floor. The bat perched on the pillar upside down, shrieking something to the young girl. Husan kept his silence as it might be important to Ava even though he didn¡¯t hear any of it. Several minutes of later, Ava threw a piece of Pink Pad Cacti fruit. The bat caught and ate the fruit in mid air before circling her a few times. She nodded at it and the small bat flew away. ¡°Old Man Husan, Ava¡¯s bat friend found some traces above, likely from Muzaid and Makya.¡± The stone pillar next to her crumbled back to the ground as she talked. While inconclusive, he still felt it¡¯s something at least, ¡°Uh-hum. Well, let¡¯s put the matter bout them aside for now. So, what¡¯s troubling young missy?¡± ¡°Ava have some concerns. Old Man know Forgesmith Guild, right?¡± The girl raised her right hand and one of the Azure Centipedes came closer. Husan was perplexed on why she called the centipede here, ¡°Yup since this old man is friends with Akeila too. What¡¯s bout it?¡± ¡°Ava been making some items for Azure Centipedes.¡± Ava touched the dog-sized insect¡¯s head. Multiple metallic objects appeared on its body after she lifted her hand, ¡°The Guild have a rule to report new creations but Ava and Old Man is here and not there.¡± ¡°Hum, based on what I know, we¡¯re kinda special case.¡± Husan scratched his chin, ¡°The rule is a voluntary thing. Not every Forgesmith follow it.¡± ¡°Ava asks for deeper explanation.¡± The young girl tilted her head in response. Husan closed his eyes as if he was in deep thought, ¡°As young missy said, we¡¯re here and not in area with the Guild. It only applies if young missy wants to use Guild¡¯s connections for business. Otherwise, nah.¡± ¡°Ava confirms, so Forgesmith Guild is like Wanderer Association?¡± Another doubt cleared in her mind. So, it was more of societal norm than an ironclad rule. Husan agreed with her, ¡°Yup, young missy. The Guild is like place of meeting and have looser rules due to nature of forgesmiths. Some live like hermits so the Guild help them to find clients, with certain conditions.¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± She dismissed the centipede and then got off her chair, ¡°Ava is planning but not sure if Old Man want to join?¡± The four-armed elder arched his back, ¡°Gahaha! Young missy said we¡¯re in this together so consider it a done deal! When I signed up with Muzaid, I was prepared fer anything!¡± ¡°Ava express gratitude. Then Ava will show the plan.¡± The scene on the table changed again as Ava sat back on her small chair, ¡°Ava bat friends gave useful information. From this we are planning for series of raids.¡± ¡°Raids huh. If you don¡¯t mind me asking, why, young missy?¡± Husan was puzzled. He was just a golden age brewer with some skills, not a soldier! Ava shifted her gaze to the morphing stone table, ¡°There are several reasons, Old Man. The first, to help Azure Centipedes against their nearest bullies. The second, to clear some volume of cavern for future uses. Lastly, to open a path to the surface with help of Azure Centipedes.¡± ¡°Hum, I got the first and third reasonings. Bout the second?¡± The four-armed elder had an austere expression. Ava summoned her azure-glow cylinder from the ground, ¡°Ava want to look for materials. Purple crystals and Aqua Green Lilies were used for this item. Ava friends told there are other resources in here.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s the way it is. Mining huh.¡± Husan unconsciously stepped back, he was still shaken with his previous encounter with the strange Aqua Green Lily, ¡°What can this old man contribute? Who are we raiding?¡± ¡°Old Man Husan can carry Ava if required? We will raid Black Yellow Centipedes, one of their forward outposts.¡± The floating cylinder behind her broke down to multiple parts and vanished into the ground. Husan knitted his eyebrows, ¡°I get that young missy is stronger but don¡¯t exert yerself too much. This old man would be sad if yer get gravely injured. We still need to meet up with Muzaid and Makya.¡± ¡°Ava acknowledges. Ava will try to be more careful this time.¡± The young girl got off her chair and patted one of Husan¡¯s four arms. Husan felt conflicted; this girl looked no older than twelve but conversely, she had showed him abilities beyond his common sense. Even if I¡¯m weaker, I suppose I can still give her advice as senior in life. The old man had a pensive expression as he looked at her emotionless face. The young girl stared in return, her golden irises swirled under his gaze, ¡°Old Man? Is Old Man okay?¡± ¡°Ohaha, nothing¡¯s wrong! Just thinking some bits, yeah¡­. just thinking, gahaha!¡± Husan quickly reverted to his cheerful state. What was¡­that? He noticed her unique eyes but left it as that, assuming it was just part of her great magics.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Ava¡¯s eyes flickered as she moved her gaze to the guarding centipedes in the room, ¡°Ava confirms. Now if Old Man could stand? Ava want to give Old Man some stuff for this raid plan.¡± ¡°What kind of stuff, young missy?¡± Husan got off his stone chair and spotted the centipedes in the room had assembled themselves in front of the young girl. What are they doing? He then spotted some metallic objects on the insects, similar to what she had shown to him earlier. Ava lifted her tiny hands after touching the head of the last centipede in the room, ¡°Some insurance, Old Man. Instead of spitting webs like Ava¡¯s friends, Black-Yellow Centipedes spit poison. So Old Man definitely need protective measures.¡± ¡°Uh-hum, okay then. So, where¡¯s it?¡± Husan nodded at her. When he thought about it, what she said made sense. She moved to the stone table again and waved her right hand over it, materializing several objects, ¡°Here they are, Old Man.¡± Husan moved to the table in order to take a closer look; the first object was a simple belt with metallic black sheen while the second was a white cube. The third was two pairs of oddly-shaped black swords with curved-ends. The old man had never seen any weapon like it. ¡°Old Man, wear the belt first.¡± The young girl beckoned the old man to pick up the first item. A belt? What? Husan was still confused but he wore it anyway, ¡°Uh¡­sure¡­¡± Shup! Clank! As soon Husan locked the belt on his waist, a grey coloured suit immediately materialized on his person; all parts of his body were covered with some kind of resilient material. A sealed helmet also formed around his head at the same time, linked to other subsystems of the suit. ¡°What in the cursed desert is this?!!¡± Husan panicked. Ava shifted next to him, ¡°Calm down Old Man Husan. This is the first insurance. Black-Yellow Centipede shoots contact poison so Old Man need to be fully covered.¡± ¡°Poison? Err¡­makes sense¡­¡± Husan scratched his neck. He found himself unable to move, Ava was holding down his waist. The young girl lifted her hands and gave the white cube to him, ¡°This is second insurance. A triage. Old Man just need to touch it when hurt.¡± ¡°Triage? So, it¡¯s something like a medicine?¡± Husan calmed himself down and flipped the cube. It didn¡¯t look anything special, just a white cube. He accepted it regardless. Ava nodded at him and then picked up one of the black swords, ¡°This is the last gift from Ava. Ava noticed Old Man do not have any weapon. This can be used to attack joints of Yellow-Black Centipedes.¡± ¡°Oh, thanks young missy.¡± He lifted one of the swords and swung it around. A second later, multiple floating images formed in front of his eyes, ¡°Ghosts?!! Are these swords cursed?!!¡± This time Ava firmly grabbed two of his arms, ¡°Old Man, can you stop being surprised at every little thing?¡± ¡°Ahahaha¡­ha. Sorry young missy. Just that these are¡­too much to take...¡± The four-armed elder avoided her blank stare. His arms were hurting from her hold. She let the old man go, ¡°Ava confirms. Old Man do not like Ava¡¯s gifts?¡± ¡°Oh, nonono! These are.... great, yeah, great! This old man had never gotten so many gifts at once before!¡± Husan waved two of his arms in response, ¡°So, uh, young missy, can you explain these to the old man again?¡± ¡°Ava confirms. The first is full suit. Black-Yellow Centipede shoot poison so by covering up, no poison will enter.¡± As Husan blinked, her robes had changed to similar suit worn by the old man, ¡°The second, a medical kit. Our enemies do not only shoot poison but they bite. So white cube can solve poison. The third, two pairs of khopeshes, for Old Man to fight back against them.¡± Khopeshes? What a weird sword name. Husan nodded in understanding, ¡°Uh-hum, thanks young missy. So¡­what are these images I¡¯ve been seeing? Not ghosts?¡± ¡°Yes, not ghosts. See how it changes as Old Man sees things.¡± Ava pointed one of her fingers at a random object. Husan marveled inside; when he focused his gaze on stuff, he was able to identify most of them, ¡°Oh¡­interesting stuff you got me here, young missy! No wonder yer asked if you should ask the Guild! I never seen or use these things before!¡± ¡°All is necessary for our raid on Black-Yellow Centipedes. Now let us depart to our first objective.¡± Ava was halfway across the room, beckoning him to follow her. The rest of Azure Centipedes guarding them had already left earlier. The old man agreed, following Ava to enter different part of the caverns. The path was full of twists and turns on purpose, so whatever enemies that came their way would be delayed. It was all temporary however, as there were other opponents that can simply dig through them. Tap, tap, tap. There were no whistling winds but instead sounds of dripping water. The path became colder and dimmer, prompting Husan to put up his best guard lest anything jump at him. On the other hand, Ava walked not too fast nor slow, as if she was just strolling here at her leisure. As their journey went, lesser amount of glowing lichens and minor critters can be found. At one point, their presence had ceased. The ground gradually became uneven, cracked and randomly pitted, suggesting something terrible had eroded them, something else than water. Husan nearly tripped several times but Ava stopped him in the nick of time. These terrain irregularities casted doubts in his mind; how can one fight when there was no stable footing to begin with? The old man had a gut feeling that things would be quite troublesome soon. They carefully walked until Ava suddenly stopped. In front of them were three entrances, each sans long line of sight. The young girl¡¯s golden eyes flickered as she viewed the entrances one by one. She raised her left hand, summoning several Azure Centipedes to her location. The four armed elder questioned her action, as they had gone through multiple similar paths earlier without pause, ¡°Young missy, are the paths ahead dangerous?¡± ¡°Ava do not know. They had been recently changed by something.¡± The golden-eyed girl tapped one of the Azure Centipedes. They soon left for the three different paths. Husan looked at the entrances one by one, ¡°Young missy, we¡¯re close to the outpost you talked earlier, yeah?¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Ava speculates that Black-Yellow Centipedes had moved their outpost here to somewhere else. The front might had been shifted.¡± She also looked at the entrances. Husan glanced left and right, ¡°So to say, if they did that, won¡¯t this be some kind of tra-¡± Gudong! Ava immediately stomped the ground to summon several arm-thick stone pillars. She punched them, sending multiple stone javelins into the three entrances. Her actions jolted Husan up, to quickly withdraw his swords out. What were things lying in wait ahead of them? They waited for some time yet there was only an eerie silence. Yes, complete silence even though Ava had just sent stone javelins weighing more than tens of jins into the three tunnels. The old man had unspoken understanding with Ava, to noiselessly back out from this place. Honglong! Multiple holes appeared, wriggling with insects! Black Yellow Centipedes emerged; they were black with yellow stripes. Their legs and mandibles were razor sharp, able to cleave a man into halves! Each shrilled inside their holes, wishing to kill these new humanoid intruders! Psshhht! Husan dodged by reflex, a stalagmite behind him was dissolved in seconds! Seeing their attacks had failed, the vicious centipedes began to leap from their holes, to enter close combat! Ava and Husan were immediately swarmed over by these insects in all directions! Keqiang! Husan felt sore in his arms, hitting these insects was like trying to hammer a thick metal plate. Morever, they were viciously fast and small, dodging most of the old man¡¯s attacks. Some of the insects shot noxious liquids from their tails again, carving gulleys on the walls and floor! Crack, crack, crack! Ava jumped between the walls, floor and, ceiling. Each jump created stony spikes and walls that either trapped or pinned these vicious insects. However, they were simply too many of them. These centipedes gradually knew to dodge and used poisons to dissolve her attacks! Husan had lost count how many he swung his curved swords, ¡°Young missy, we need to shake them off!¡± ¡°Ava confirms. We need to revise our plans. Old Man, run first.¡± She somersaulted backwards, to move closer to the four-armed old man. Husan thrusted his swords upwards, barely stopping an incoming Black-Yellow Centipede from snapping his neck, ¡°We can talk bout plans later! Okay, this old man will escape first!¡± ¡°Follow Ava¡¯s item, Old Man.¡± She summoned her azure-glow cylinder again and urged Husan to chase the hovering object. The old man hesitated but he didn¡¯t have any choice. He needed to follow it or else! ¡°Okay! Don¡¯t forget to escape too, young missy!¡± C16 - Solution As Husan and Azure Centipedes had successfully retreated, Ava can now fight with less worries. Her opponents numbered in the thousands, sending shivers to even a veteran Wanderer. More and more of these insects poured in, wishing to delay her, trap her here! They imagined sinking their mandibles on her tender flesh. To drink her sweet blood by the jins. To mutilate her small body, to watch her squirm in agony! The Black Yellow Centipedes went berserk, fast and furious. There was no way this puny human can resist their numbers! They were sorely disappointed however; this young girl was still alive and kicking, able to deflect their advances! Who was she? But she was only a single being while they covered every single path and escape route. They just need to wear her down and then go for the kill! Putong! Ava dropped down; her golden hair was cut. She timed her fist, sending an uppercut to the perpetrator. She twisted its trajectory sideways and caused it to be decapitated by its kin! The young girl motioned similar moves to take care of other five vicious creatures in her proximity. If brute force didn¡¯t work, use their force against themselves! The centipedes in the back saw it and rapidly backed up, shooting poisons at her. It was easy to guess how Azure Centipedes heavily suffered against the yellow-striped menaces; they were fast, small, strong and smart! Ava flipped and dodged in mid-air; four more poison shots narrowly missed her body and limbs. As her feet touched the ground again, an ambush was sprung; one hidden Black-Yellow Centipede at her side leaped at her, tearing her left arm amidst the ensuing poison barrage! Ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh!!! A breakthrough! All Black-Yellow Centipedes in the area were frenzied, clicking their mandibles and shaking their tails side to side! The assailant brought away her arm and in process drew some of its kin away, to immediately eat it before the young girl can recover it! Ava gave chase to her detached arm as well, impressing them that this girl must be at her wits¡¯ end! But for some reason, some of the insects felt uneasy as they didn¡¯t saw any blood spurting from her. The young girl remained calm or blank, even though she just lost her arm. Crack! The detached arm suddenly became taut and grasped the head of the insect that carried it. The insect¡¯s head exploded into numerous sickle-like blades, cutting down its pursuing kin! Ava shifted side to side, avoiding the flying blades. She jumped and re-attached her torn arm. This incident stunned the vicious insects a few seconds and that was all Ava needed to escape their cordon. They became enraged, their black eyes flashed with madness! This puny human must die at any cost! More of them threw themselves over, not minding to waste their lives! Ava found herself in a difficult situation; not only those centipedes shot more poisons, they also pounced at her in the same time! They truly went for broke this time, throwing all caution to the wind. Something clearly needed to change or she would be stuck fighting them forever! As she weaved among the biting insects and their dissolving poisons, she spotted her chance! Ava slid into a different tunnel, illuminated by some purple crystal pillars. The walls and ceiling had shiny streaks, reflecting light from the crystals. But she didn¡¯t have time to appreciate it. Gudong! Ava rolled to the side and five of her pursuers collided with one crystal pillar. She grabbed the fallen pillar and kicked it backwards. It then exploded into thousands of hard needles, puncturing and maiming the rest! Ichor and insect parts flew everywhere, a sudden massacre! However, it wasn¡¯t over yet; more centipedes shown up, emerging from the floor, walls and ceiling! Their numbers were almost endless but they still didn¡¯t manage to capture her, she was a few paces farther. The Post Human nevertheless had a plan, to kill all of them at once. Ava kicked another crystal pillar and punched a visible metal vein. One centipede saw this as a chance and sliced her right arm off. Just before its kin can dice the torn arm, they were diced themselves! The culprit, Ava nonchalantly collected her torn arm and re-attached it again. Her tiny hands were now inside oversized gauntlets, made from metal and purple crystals. Her feet were also covered with similarly big tall boots. As she swung them around, multiple crystalline blades flew out of them, slicing and decapitating many Black-Yellow Centipedes! Keqiang! The gauntlet on her right hand morphed into a small shield, pushing an attacking Black-Yellow Centipede aside. She didn¡¯t go for the kill and instead escaped, not willing to get tangled any more. The Post Human ran on any visible metal veins and kicked any crystal pillars in vicinity. A dead end! She took a few steps backwards, priming her gauntlets for a strike. They glowed azure as she hurled them at the wall. With sou noises, the earth in front of her vanished out of thin air and left some vacuum in its place. The young girl literally punched her way through. However, the Black-Yellow Centipedes were still attacking her! Ava turned backwards, punching the offenders at full force. All vicious insects within range had vanished, leaving an empty void! Unfortunately, the effect didn¡¯t travel far, there were still survivors further back. Ava realized this was just a waste of time and thus shifted her attention to dug a spiral-like path. She danced between digging the earth and avoiding the insects¡¯ attacks, not considering them at all. The centipedes were absolutely furious but they became wary of her gauntlets. Some Black-Yellow Centipedes slowed down or even stopped attacking altogether, curious about her actions. What is she planning to do now? These doubters moved to the back of the front but didn¡¯t fully leave yet, to not let their kin question their fighting spirit for their horde. Ava suddenly stopped punching the earth and rolled to the side. Some eager vicious insects collided with the wall while others paused in their tracks. More of them found this was highly suspicious; she didn¡¯t look like anyone desperate. They felt her stillness was nerve-wracking. Bzzt! Her gauntlets flared with sparking electricity and she slammed them to a wall on her left. This jolted the centipedes, to slowly retreat. Others in the back were already flexing their legs, to leap out from this place. Just before they can move, suddenly a couple of them exploded! Honglong! Ava punched the ground, covering herself with stone and soil. The centipedes realized this was vaguely a trap but it was too late; majority of them suddenly exploded in gore and shrapnel! How does she do it?!! Ones in the back started to sprint, unwilling to stay anymore! The vicious insects swelled to balloons; their innards heated up to stupendous temperatures before being literally blown apart. Ones that didn¡¯t waved their feelers and rolled side to side but it was useless, they too later exploded! The detonations continued for several minutes. Bang! A dull-grey gauntlet emerged from a rubble. Ava struggled to get herself out. In exception of her gauntlets and boots, she was stark naked. Her hair was filled with dirt and blood, her right arm broke in three pieces and most of her skin had deep bruises. It was a scene of carnage. She glanced around; the Black-Yellow Centipedes had all but disappeared. What was left was smell of cooked flesh, hers and theirs. The tunnel had multiple fissures and littered with random splinters of insect carapaces. While she was injured, all of her opponents had died!This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. The young girl sat on the ground, to regenerate herself. It was too close; while her gamble worked, she was heavily injured. But it validated her theory; it was possible to microwave these insects to the death. She continued to think as her injuries visibly healed at a fast pace. Her bones reconnected together, her skins shed and turned supple, her bodily curves reinstated themselves and her golden hair regrew to their former glory. However, she was still plain naked, form inviting forbidden thoughts. She got up to her feet and stomped around. Multiple metallic threads sprung from nearby walls, from the path she made. They surrounded the young girl and formed a new clothing, similar to her prior attire while in the desert up above. How long had it been? Ava retraced her steps, to get back at Old Man Husan. This chase had set her pretty far; it took Ava almost an hour to return and search where Husan was. A trap! She punched it to oblivion, turning the falling pillar to dust. The young girl smashed several other traps and dodged some. These playthings weren¡¯t enough to stop her. Just before she punched a suspicious bunch of rocks, a hoarse voice croaked out, ¡°Young missy, stop! It¡¯s me, Husan!¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Old Man with Ava¡¯s friends?¡± The Post Human withdrew her hands and the gauntlets disappeared from sight. Husan showed himself, legs trembling. Behind him was several Azure Centipedes that were similarly nervous, ¡°Y-yeah. Just this old man and few of yer friends.¡± ¡°Ava is sorry for the trouble again.¡± She lowered her head at both parties. Husan panicked as if a bird was shot with a peashooter, ¡°Oh, no, please raise your head! Look, this old man is all fine! No broken bones, just some bruises!¡± ¡°Ava confirms. We need to revise our plan, again.¡± Ava nodded at them; her expression blank. The four armed elder sighed, ¡°Well it¡¯s good to see you again. Living is more important. Plans always change, nothing can do bout it.¡± ¡°We should relocate to new place, Old Man. Ava have new plan.¡± She beckoned Husan and the rest to follow her. Husan withdrew the khopesh he stabbed on the ground, ¡°Yeah, I think we should also get out of here. There were some stragglers but thanks to yer friends and floating cylinder, we survived. But¡­¡± ¡°But?¡± The young girl stared at him. Husan scratched his neck, his eyebrows knitted, ¡°But those damn Black-Yellow Centipedes managed to destroy it. And quite a few of yer friends were dead, to let this old man escape. Sorry, young missy.¡± ¡°Please do not worry. Ava friends had been prepared for it, Old Man. Live on, for their sakes.¡± Ava patted one of his free arms, to console the four-armed elder. Husan regained his spirit, no longer frowning, ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right, young missy. So¡­what happened to you? Did those black-yellow centipedes badly hurt young missy?¡± ¡°A long story, Old Man. But Ava is very strong, all of them had died.¡± Ava noticed his gaze and she replied in kind. Husan wasn¡¯t better off; his suit was missing in some places and he was only left with a single khopesh. The fight must¡¯ve been intense for the old brewer. Husan sensibly changed the topic, noting she wasn¡¯t willing to talk further, ¡°Okay. I do think we do need new plans to counter them yellow menaces. Now I see why yer friends wouldn¡¯t stand a chance, no offense.¡± ¡°Ava concurs. Let us talk as we walk. Ava is concerned Black-Yellow Centipedes may go for a second round.¡± She looked at Azure Centipedes in vicinity. Their heads were hung low, almost touching the ground. The young girl tried to give them some Pink Pad Cacti fruits but neither responded. It was understandable; the Azure Centipedes thought this was a chance to get even but they lost some ten percent of their numbers from this single raid alone. What about future raid plans? Without a Broodmother, the centipedes might as well be functionally extinct after the tenth raid. There was also longstanding issue of hunger, limiting most of their activities. Ava and Husan were clearly exposed to the fact that an Army marches on its stomach, not weapons. Ava raised her left hand, signaling the rest of Azure Centipedes to rapidly retreat and scatter in random directions. The loss was a double whammy; the centipedes numbers shrunk and now their opponents were aware of their movements. It looked grim for Azure Centipedes. The Post Human noticed their morale were at all times low, ¡°We will change into a different target this time. We will attack Moss Worms.¡± ¡°Moss Worms?¡± Husan contemplated while he walked. He had never heard of such creatures before. Ava hopped and jumped between random rocks littered in the area, ¡°They farm moss so Ava called them as that.¡± ¡°What¡¯s a strange thing.¡± Husan followed her steps, ¡°Wait, young missy said they farm moss?¡± The Azure Centipedes following them had expectant looks. Ava patted one of them, ¡°Yes but they are difficult in a way. One of Ava¡¯s friends was killed by them as soon as it crossed their pool.¡± ¡°Huh, they aren¡¯t some Crescent Shark in the water, are they?¡± Husan shook his head. He was concerned this incoming fight could be as terrible as before. The young girl stopped and started to scratch something on the ground with a random rock, ¡°Old Man is half correct. They usually stay in their pool, their spawning grounds. Anywhere with deep enough flowing water usually have Moss Worms.¡± ¡°Uh-hum. Do you mind if this old man makes a request?¡± Husan viewed her drawings. This is supposed to be a worm? Looks like an oversized snake. He failed to see the difference. Ava turned her head to face him, ¡°Ava guess Old Man want to spare some of them? For farming moss.¡± ¡°Oh, how did young missy read my mind?¡± Husan laughed, not longer as depressed as before. She pointed one of her fingers at an Azure Centipede close to her, ¡°Ava¡¯s friend thinks the same so Ava had a guess. Ava also think it might be worth it to try.¡± ¡°Uh-hum. So, how will it go?¡± Husan said. The Post Human tapped the uneven ground, turning it completely flat, ¡°Moss Worms are like fishes. We just need to avoid getting into the water. The rest should be easy.¡± ¡°Just that? But young missy said they had killed one of yer friends.¡± The elder glanced at a nearby Azure Centipede. He cannot image how an aquatic worm was able to kill a swim-capable centipede armed with sharp mandibles that can probably snap his hand off. A diagram emerged from the flat surface as Ava sat on the ground, ¡°Yes. Moss Worms have hooked tentacles but it doesn¡¯t go far. Old Man Husan just need to roll around on dry land.¡± ¡°H-h-hooked tentacles you say?¡± Husan recoiled his head. Black-Yellow Centipedes were bad enough and these worms had tentacled hooks? What in the desert¡­. He shook his head to disperse his thoughts. Ava stared at him, ¡°Old Man Husan, it is not so bad. They do not shoot poison or able to leap like Black-Yellow Centipede bullies. Ava is confident that Old Man can take it easy.¡± ¡°Uh¡­if young missy says so¡­¡± Husan faked a cough. Well, he did say he would follow her lead whatever the odds. The young girl got up, ¡°Before Ava forget, Old Man only have one sword, right?¡± ¡°Yeah. Black-Yellow Centipedes broke the other three. Ahahaha¡­¡± The old man laughed awkwardly. He just got them for nothing from Ava and was worried the girl would chastise him for it. The Post Human stood at the edge of the flat surface and stomped once, ¡°Old Man can throw the sword away. It looks like it will crumble any moment now. Ava have other weapons for Old Man instead.¡± ¡°Oh, these gauntlets for me?¡± Husan opened his eyes wide. Two pairs of slightly big gauntlets appeared on the flat surface. They were utilitarian, no decorations and felt sturdy to the touch. They were dull grey, unlike the previous black-coloured khopeshes. The young girl watched Husan equipping the gauntlets and then moved next to him, ¡°A compensation for Old Man. Stay still, Ava need to fix Old Man¡¯s clothes too.¡± ¡°Uh-hum, as you wish then young missy.¡± Husan closed his eyes and stayed still like a statue. His broken attire mended themselves together, closing and covering areas that showed his bare skin. Ava then lifted her hand after being satisfied with the end result, ¡°It is done, Old Man. Does Old Man want explanation on Ava¡¯s gifts?¡± ¡°If you please, young missy.¡± Husan felt he became lighter and his clothes no longer holey as before, ¡°Remind this old man to repay you for all what you¡¯ve done.¡± ¡°Ava do not need it Old Man.¡± Ava shook her head while backing a wall, ¡°Just helping Ava is enough. We are in this together, right Old Man?¡± ¡°Uh¡­right. So, explanation please?¡± Husan bowed his head at her. He felt it was wrong to receive all these without paying her but the girl insisted it as gifts. A similar gauntlet but bigger than his formed on Ava¡¯s right hand. She punched a wall next to her, ¡°If Old Man punches fast and hard enough, Old Man can do like Ava. But Old Man need to wait until it glows azure.¡± ¡°Huh! What in the desert¡­.¡± His hands trembled upon seeing the result. A huge hole had appeared from her punch! The four-armed elder cautiously put his hands away, ¡°These¡­these won¡¯t activate suddenly, right?¡± ¡°For Old Man, Ava had made it so that when Old Man tapped two of them together, they will charge up. Then Old Man can do so.¡± The gauntlet on her right hand disappeared. Husan relaxed a bit before getting excited, ¡°Mind if this Old Man give it a go, young missy?¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± She gave a simple reply, giving the elder some space. He did as what Ava had told and a similar hole appeared at the location he punched, ¡°Amazing¡­.this might be¡­Second Grade Dao Weapon¡­no, maybe Third Grade!¡± ¡°Ava know Old Man is happy but let¡¯s stop. We have our plans. We need to walk now.¡± The young girl tugged at his waist. Husan wore an embarrassed look, ¡°Ahahaha, right! So, what should this old man call them?¡± ¡°If Ava is to guess, Void Gauntlets? By the way, Old Man can only activate them for ten times before they become useless.¡± She replied in terse manner, her face blank. Husan broke into joy, ¡°Ten times are more than enough! Thanks fer this, young missy!¡± The young girl then went to inspect their Azure Centipede entourages for a moment. Tens of minutes later, she called Husan that was busy fiddling with the gauntlets to follow her. The party, Ava, Husan and a couple of Azure Centipedes then left the area, entering a new tunnel. C17 - Revise Out of the sudden, Ava collapsed with next to no warning. Husan and the accompanying centipedes were startled but the four-armed elder managed to catch her before she slammed the rocky ground. He put the young girl next to a wall and checked her pulse. It was weak. The old man¡¯s eyebrows scrunched together; this was the second time she was out cold. Like a candle flickering in the wind. As Husan contemplated their next course of actions, some of the centipedes weaved a silken blanket for the young girl before disappearing out of sight. He gently stopped her from standing up with the said blanket, ¡°Young missy, take it easy. The Moss Worm can wait.¡± ¡°S..sorry.¡± She tried to get up regardless, with her trembling hands. Husan maintained his stance, ¡°No, take a rest. Life¡¯s once. This old man can stand guard just fine.¡± ¡°Con..firm.¡± The young girl raised her hands one last time, pointing her ring finger outward. She¡¯s sure stubborn. The four armed elder became silent, trying to not disturb the fatigued girl. He saw a small mountain of stuff at the direction pointed by her but paid it little attention; how could he answer to Muzaid or Makya if he didn¡¯t properly look after the young girl? The old man certainly felt some guilt but what else he can do at the moment? He was no herbalist or fighter. He was just a tea brewer with some adventuring experience. As Husan was lost in thought, an Azure Centipede bowed its head, attempting to comfort the old man. Husan snapped out of it and proceeded to follow the creature, ¡°Uh-hum, yer right. No need to worry too much.¡± ¡°These are¡­boxes? Yer want me to open them?¡± The elder was perplexed on why the insect kept turning its head to the small mountain of stuff. The centipede carefully lifted one of the nearby boxes with its mandibles and put it some distance away from Husan. Under his gaze, the creature used one of its jaws to push a little depression under the box¡¯s lid. It automatically swung open, for both to see its contents. ¡°So, there¡¯s stuff in it. What an odd thing,¡± He glanced over and then reached out to the opened box, ¡°Yer saying this is food? This looks like mud bricks.¡± ¡°Uh¡­okay, I¡¯ll give it to yer¡± Husan looked at the insect. It was alternating between snapping its jaws together to nodding repeatedly. The elder took one out and put the palm-sized ¡®brick¡¯ in front of the insect. However, it didn¡¯t bite the ¡®brick¡¯ and instead stared at him. It clicked its mandibles once before pointing its head at the grey ¡®brick¡¯, the old man and the opened box several seconds each respectively. Husan took one for himself, ¡°Is this¡­¡¯brick¡¯ even edible?¡± Crunch! The Azure Centipede picked it up and gnawed at the grey stuff as if it was chewing some leaves. Husan stood there dazed; he was doubtful whether his old set of teeth can bite the ¡®brick¡¯ at all. The vicious creature and its kind had strong jaws, in order to dig inside this Wadi. Husan decided to leave it to the heavens and bit the ¡®brick¡¯ in his hand. It was strangely tasteless and odourless but it had a crunchy texture. Before he knew it, he had finished it. Husan put two and two together and guessed other boxes might¡¯ve been storing the same thing. Even when sick, she¡¯s still thoughtful. The old man became depressed. Not only Ava saved him multiple times, she even gave them sizable supplies. Perhaps the young girl had expected this? Husan sighed and looked at the centipede. It was giving some of said boxes to its kin. Some outright refused and put back the offered box to its pile before darting off. Others opened the box and gave its contents to some teetering centipedes. Husan marveled at the sight; these creatures were actually smart, emulating how humans would act in this situation. One of the vicious insects swayed its head at Husan, as if telling him to follow it. The old man agreed as he had nothing to do anyway. It led the elder to a flat ground with three centipedes. Two of them were clicking their mandibles while the odd one scratched the hard ground. ¡°These are¡­count marks? How many boxes are there?¡± Husan got what were they trying to convey. There were fifty single line scratches, eleven of them crossed out. The old man asked some things and the centipedes replied with their unique gestures, ¡°I see, yer divided them boxes, some for yer kin and some for me. These should last us some four days huh.¡± Now came the long wait. Husan took turns with the centipedes to monitor Ava. He had named some of the insects out of a whim since the creatures in question rarely left the human pair alone. The rest came and went, bringing plants or small bugs. Some however, never returned. Even though the centipedes didn¡¯t show it, Husan knew some of them had probably perished. They sought to make the supplies last as long as possible by foraging and evidently not all were successful. This lull was all but transient, Alkharm Wadi still containing hidden dangers. To distract himself from boredom, Husan started to experiment with the plants brought by the centipedes. The old man found some of the boxes held pure water and mixed it with the plants. Most turned to be poisonous while others smelt bizarre. A few turned up to be useful. He didn¡¯t know the names of these random plants but he had a rough guess what did what. The useful ones had variety of effects; one made the centipede blazing fast for a moment while another made a different insect regained its former complexion, for a vicious creature. Time passed without him knowing as he was engrossed in making more concoctions. At some point of time, one of the named Azure Centipedes snapped one of the plants he was handling and scratched the ground for multiple times. Husan came to his senses, he was too into it! ¡°Uh¡­okay, okay, this old man will stop. Sheesh.¡± Husan pulled himself together. Thankfully the centipedes covered his absence from watching over Ava. A childish voice greeted the embarrassed old man, ¡°Ava thinks it is good to have hobby. But Ava have bad news.¡± ¡°Thanks heavens yer okay now. Here, have this.¡± Husan was visibly relieved and offered her a small cup filled with pale blue fluid. The Post Human¡¯s body remained glued to the floor. A nearby centipede came and brought said cup to her with its mandibles, ¡°Ava expressed thanks. Ava have bad news, Old Man.¡± ¡°Young missy, don¡¯t be ominous. It¡¯s good that yer awake now.¡± Husan purposely turned a deaf ear. The golden-eyed girl gulped the cup with much difficulty, ¡°It is important for¡­Old Man. And our coming work.¡±Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°This old man can already guess it. Yer lost some of yer powers, right? It¡¯s okay, I can still fight. We should step back.¡± Husan gave out some assuring words, not to worry the feeble child. Ava stared at him blankly, ¡°However¡­we still need to go against Moss Worms.¡± ¡°I know but¡­¡± Husan hesitated. He knew Ava alone could¡¯ve done it but now? Without her strength, this could be immensely risky. As if she read his mind, the young girl proposed a new plan, ¡°Ava knows Old Man do not know how to help, right? Old Man just have to follow what Ava says. Ava will stay back.¡± ¡°To leave yer? Then who will protect yer?¡± The four-armed elder crossed two of his arms. Ava waved her tiny hands and a waiting centipede propped her up, ¡°Ava friends will keep Ava safe. Ava will stay not far from Old Man. Ava will tell Old Man what to do.¡± ¡°Uh¡­if young missy insists¡­but we¡¯re getting out if I feel it¡¯s not safe.¡± Husan shrugged. It seemed he cannot change her mind. The old man lifted the young girl up and put her on his left shoulder. She waved her ring finger, causing the pile of boxes in their vicinity to vanish. Remaining Azure Centipedes stopped whatever they were doing and met the pair once. They darted next, as vanguards. Crack! Clank, clank, clank! The noise caused Husan to turn his head. Now he knew why Ava was confident; so, she had some powers left and summoned her odd item again. The elder knew how powerful the floating cylinder was; it alone blockaded tens of Black Yellow Centipedes from attacking him. Its azure glow nevertheless still giving the old man some unsettling feeling, that this object was definitely dangerous, gnawing at his consciousness. The old man forcibly detached his gaze from it. They went further in the caverns, meeting with streams of water and damp moss. Splash, splash, splash! Husan was knee-deep now, in the flowing water. The pair¡¯s centipede escorts swam along like a snake, waving their bodies side to side. Small fishes and creatures gave way, frightened by the Azure Centipedes. Suddenly Ava raised her hand, stopping the group from advancing. ¡°Hm?¡± While it was quite dim, Husan saw something moved some zhangs away. Ava pinched his nape, causing the old man to jump, ¡°Old Man, move to the left. Get on solid ground.¡± It was a close call. Husan barely got on top of a wet boulder, almost dropping the young girl. In split second, he saw an Azure Centipede dashed in the opposite direction and made a big splash. Next was stifling silence sans sound of running water. Was there something out there? ¡°Old Man, remember what Ava said. Do not go too far inside the water.¡± Ava descended and sat on the rock. Her odd cylinder floated close, emitting a pale azure-coloured wave. Husan wanted to nod but raised one of his arms by chance, ¡°What cursed desert is this?! Moss Worms?¡± Indeed, the vicious worms had shown themselves! If not for the tough Void Gauntlets and his suit, Husan would¡¯ve been seriously injured. He shook two of his arms, dislodging several reddish-coloured hooks. Husan rolled to right side, avoiding more of them coming his way. The elder shifted his gaze toward Ava and found she was relatively safe, her floating object stopping the tentacled hooks with an invisible force. The hooks withdrew inside the water and instead came for the old man! Husan forced to dodge again lest he got dragged away. Clank, clank! Pow! It was quite difficult as his opponents kept attacking from the darkness. Husan was forced to be on the defensive, punching and deflecting the sharp hooks. Without warning, an Azure Centipede leaped at the old man, pushing him aside. It immediately got caught by the hooks. Cursed desert! Not Shahih! Husan had no time to grieve the loss of the named centipede as the attacks intensified. He purposely jumped in another direction, drawing the attacks aimed at the young girl. Husan sank to the bottom and saw some visage of his hidden opponent. It was a quarter zhang long with pale white skin. Numerous hooks on string-like tentacles lined its round ¡®mouth¡¯. This creature had no visible eyes or ears, blind and deaf at the first glance. Yet it was able to target the four-armed elder with unnerving accuracy and frequency. Shoom! Husan had enough. He tapped two of his gauntlets together and formed a huge vacuum. Two thirds of this belligerent had vanished without a trace, diffusing blue ichor when the surrounding water rushed in to fill the created void. The old man quickly swam to the surface. ¡°Are you okay, Old Man?¡± ¡°Huh? When did young missy get in my head?¡± Husan managed to find a small pillar and climbed on top of it. As he kept his eyes peeled out, the voice continued, ¡°Ava will tell later. For now, Old Man should run. We need to respond in a certain way. Raise the first right hand.¡± ¡°Uh, okay.¡± Several hooks aimed for Husan¡¯s head was stopped by his raised fist. They quickly retreated after seeing the ambush had failed. Ava calmly explained the situation to him, ¡°If Ava is right, Moss Worms are like Ava¡¯s centipede friends. Old Man should find out which one is the boss.¡± ¡°I see. Take off their chief and they¡¯ll be headless chicken.¡± The elder got into action, following the young girl¡¯s specific instructions. The remaining Azure Centipedes followed suit, weaving inside the slow-moving waters. However, it was easier said than done; Husan and the insects had searched far and wide but the worms looked all the same. The area was also dark, making identification pretty difficult. Nevertheless, they found out the attacks were amplified in certain locations. So, Ava¡¯s right. The worms form broods but thanks to their long reach, no one are be able to pinpoint them in time. Such inference came with cost; several Azure Centipedes had been killed by the worms. ¡°Young missy, yer still there?¡± There was slight frustration in the old man¡¯s voice. ¡°Ava confirms. Ava advises to keep looking.¡± The four armed elder lifted a medium sized boulder and angrily threw it to oncoming tentacled hooks, ¡°How long would this last? I see there¡¯s less of yer friends now.¡± ¡°Ava suggest new plan. But¡­¡± The young girl grew uncertain. Would the old man accept her idea? Husan threw more rocks he found lying around, smaller this time. By instinct, he shoved one inside the mouth of an ambushing Moss Worm behind him, ¡°What¡¯s the worst could happen, young missy? They kept running away, this is difficult!¡± ¡°Ava friends told Ava that the worms¡¯ boss is nearby. Old Man need to draw them out, in the location Ava had pointed.¡± Her voice was accompanied with a floating image that entered Husan¡¯s vision. Husan shook his head and then swam at full speed, ¡°Hahaha, me as bait? No problem! Bout time these worms get a beatin¡¯!¡± ¡°Ava disabled Old Man¡¯s gauntlets for a moment. Old Man cannot kill the worm¡¯s boss.¡± The young girl had just to pour cold water on his hopes. The elder didn¡¯t respond this time. By hook or by crook, he needed to do it anyway. The rest of swimming centipedes provoked the worms and coincidentally moved toward him next. Really?! Husan wanted to curse out but he was chased by no less than five barrel-thick worms! The old man and six or so Azure Centipedes all swam to a single point, a small mound of dry land among these waters. The centipedes arrived first but Husan slipped back into the water, no thanks to the moss. Cursed desert! Husan felt three of his arms were being gnawed at. Thump! He threw some punches and by chance two of them hit his assailants. The old man had never felt lighter than before, leaping directly on dry land. The pursuers were still persistent; both man and insects were surrounded by rising tentacles! Clearly the worms had been angered! Husan and the vicious centipedes were able to hold on, working together to deflect or cut most of the tentacled hooks. But there were simply too many tentacled hooks, wriggling and lashing about! Bit by bit, the old man found their maneuver space shrunk with passing time. ¡°Young missy, is boss worm here or not?!¡± There was sense of urgency in his words. Half of the centipedes with him had been wiped out and all of his arms were aching. Ava remained monotonous, ¡°Wait a little bit more, Old Man.¡± ¡°Ouch! Blasted worm!¡± Five hooks had been latched on his arm. The old man didn¡¯t try to remove it and instead tugged with all of his strength. Splash! A direct contest of strength. Husan however, had additional help; the surviving centipedes spit some threads and pulled on the hated creature as well! Their efforts combined saw the worm being dragged on dry land. Husan rushed forward and punched the worm in its face! ¡°Stay back and close your eyes, Old Man. Ava will take care of the boss worm.¡± The Post Human finally said what the four-armed elder had wanted to hear. Crack, clank, clank, clank! Husan averted his gaze, catching a single glimpse of a hovering object assembling itself out of thin air. This must be one of her strange magics again. He laid close to the ground and felt enormous amount of energies were being accumulated in a single point. Then, all sounds had ceased to be. C18 - Count Subjugation complete! Each and every Moss Worm in the shallow waters had azure tinge to them, circulating like tree branches, tracing their every nerve. The ones closest to Husan arose from the depths and bowed. The old man however was still cowering, with his eyes and ears sealed tight. Now that the situation was under control, Ava took a closer look on these semi-aquatic creatures. Each had segmented bodies, bristling with tiny hairs and finger-like tentacles. Their mouths contain pouches, storing their tentacled hooks. The curved hooks remained outside like rows of jagged teeth. Like what Husan had observed, Moss Worms had no eyes or the usual face to speak of. Ava guessed these creatures must¡¯ve hunt using some kind of electroreception, sensing biomagnetic field of living things. As Husan was given a powerful suit, naturally they had no issue to track him from the darkness. Most of these creatures were shorter than a zhang but a few was an exception. Some were quite large, enough to swallow a man whole. Curiously, the ¡®boss¡¯ worm referred by Ava and Husan wasn¡¯t the biggest but the fastest. They were only able to trap it after observing which worm that moved often. For a primitive lifeform, Moss Worms were quite cunning; ordinary people would mistake the big ones as chiefs and attack them instead. While the intruders were distracted, the actual boss worm led smaller worms to circle and kill the enemies. Husan and the centipedes had experienced it first-hand. Ava snapped her gaze to a bunch of Azure Centipedes, barely stopping them from biting the worms to the death. They swayed their tails side to side in protest, wanting to avenge their fallen kin. She stressed that despite their boiling hatred, these worms should be kept alive, to serve in her grand plan. However, this fight was cutting it close; the centipedes suffered major losses, again. Disruption to her connection became severe, greatly limiting her quanta supplies and consequently her abilities. These issues forced her to rely on Husan at the moment but how long can it last? Something had to change! Crack, crack, clank, clank! Her flying cylinder disassembled itself and vanished after completing its task. This was certainly difficult; with her quanta reserves next to zero, it was just enough to either regenerate herself once or summon the cylinder again. She was left with a choice to be on the run or do another risky conquest. Ava put the matter aside while replacing her gauntlets with pair of gloves. The young girl went to tap one of Husan¡¯s arms, ¡°Old Man, are you okay?¡± ¡°Is it¡­is it¡­over?¡± Husan croaked before screaming in pain, ¡°Ouch! Ow, ow, ow!!!¡± Ava wanted to restrain him but found her strength wanting, ¡°Old Man? Calm down.¡± The elder continued to wail, anguish written all over him. Ava signaled with her eyes; the subjugated Moss Worms used their tentacles to lock the old man in place. The young girl then gently pushed her finger on his neck to immediately knock him out. So, even with the suit, he received quite a beating. Ava hovered her hand a tenth of zhang from Husan; the elder broke two of his arms¡¯ upper bones, multiple fractures on legs and deep bruises all over. It was quite severe but at least he has all of his limbs intact; at the present if Husan missed any of his limbs, Ava wouldn¡¯t be able to regenerate them. She pointed out her ring finger, materializing several palm-sized white cubes some distance away. The cubes floated over his injuries, each taking specific position on his person respectively. One by one, they melted down to rays of condensed white light, gradually reversing Husan¡¯s injuries at a slow pace. This treatment had completely used all of said cubes, leaving Ava with only medicinal salves she got back then in Wanderer Association branch at Kazar. These salves were pasties, unlike the pills that Muzaid gave to Akeila. They were heaven and earth apart; the salves were only for external injuries. She did have some herbs and plants she collected in the previous oasis but she didn¡¯t know how to process them into ones like Akeila had used as her knowledge on involved methods was still lacking. Thus, Ava determined Husan was now a liability; she could regenerate herself but not the old man. Her mind clocked in high speed, parallel thoughts exchanging and deriving ideas. Subjugated Moss Worms had all but replaced Husan¡¯s usefulness as they were self-sustaining and able to grow in numbers. How would Ava remove him from the picture? She was in deep thought, mulling the options. Her line of thought was interrupted when the elder opened his eyes, ¡°Old Man, do not move so much.¡± ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Husan clutched his head, ¡°Did I...? Wait, what?¡± ¡°Ava confirms Moss Worms are Ava¡¯s friends now.¡± The young girl waved her hands, quickly dismissing the rest of the worms in the shallows lest the old man getting jumpy again. Husan knew the situation was strange but he decided to check his limbs instead, ¡°Uhh¡­good to see yer, young missy. How long this old one was out?¡± ¡°A few hours.¡± Ava gave him an ambiguous answer. The old man then sat up, rubbing his eyes in confusion, ¡°So..uhh¡­we won, right?¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± Another short answer. She summoned a small Moss Worm to their location. Husan took a good look on this creature. It certainly felt different, with occasional azure tinge on it, ¡°Uh-huh, so this here is a Moss Worm huh?¡± ¡°A worker, Old Man. They seem to have multiple jobs.¡± Ava called a slightly bigger one. It bowed like the earlier smaller worm. The four armed elder got up and flexed most of his muscles. Some were still sore, ¡°Uhum, so my hunch was correct. Them worms farm moss, right? How bout we see some?¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± Her golden eyes flickered and both worms slipped back into the waters. Surviving Azure Centipedes were originally tense, barely restraining themselves but as Husan woke up, they became passive. They knew Ava¡¯s plan took higher priority and thus forcibly calmed down. Therefore, the vicious insects moved close to Husan instead, greeting him by clicking their mandibles. Husan felt strange that these insects didn¡¯t charge at the Moss Worms just now. Nevertheless, he returned their gestures by nodding at them. He could tell they were faking it as their movements were janky. Ava must¡¯ve told the insects to stop, that the worms were integral to her next course of actions. A few moments later, one small Moss Worm emerged from the shallows. The worm put several spheres on the shore with its tentacles. As it was dim, Ava produced a small glowing plant to illuminate them. These curious spheres had varying wild colours from silver to red but green made the majority.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. ¡°What in the desert are they? Moss? Snot? Err¡­..¡± Husan picked one up. All of them were wet to the touch. Ava placed her attention to one of the greenish ones, ¡°Some of them are moss, Old Man. Ava think they did not only farm moss but other stuff as well.¡± ¡°Oh, like us who plant many stuffs? Then, which one is edible?¡± The elder put down the sphere on his hands. The young girl pointed at two spheres in vicinity, one green and another purple, ¡°Ava confirms these are but they do not taste good. The purple one need additional preparations.¡± ¡°Hm right, I never seen any of these before. Thought only moss grows in them caverns.¡± Husan took a second glance and stared at the lineup, face full of doubts. Ava on other hand looked at the centipedes, ¡°Ava cannot process some of them at the moment. But green and purple ones can be used now. Old Man take green, Ava¡¯s centipede friends take purple.¡± ¡°That purple thing? Is it even edible for yer friends? Them purple stuff looked like those purple crystals, but round, young missy.¡± The elder was still skeptical. The young girl picked the purple sphere and placed it in front of one of Azure Centipedes. It was quite reluctant to eat it, ¡°Ava think so. It will taste terrible but Ava think it can give them energy. No, Old Man cannot eat it.¡± ¡°Eehhh¡­. why? Them worms farm it so it must be edible, right?¡± Husan was about to bite it but put it back on the ground. It was springy to the touch. The Post Human had a hunch, ordering the Moss Worm to dissect the object in question, ¡°Ava confirms that it contains sharp needles. Old Man will get injuries.¡± ¡°Ah..ahaha¡­right. So them purple thing have needles in it.¡± The elder didn¡¯t know to laugh or cry. Ava gazed at the Moss Worm and it brought all of the spheres away, ¡°Old Man, Ava requests help again. Moss Worms can change their farming. We need to lead preys and modify caverns for it.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­yer centipedes can easily do them tasks. What can this old man do? And before I forgot, the Moss Worms can pack them food stuff into spheres, huh?¡± Husan felt awkward. Jin by jin, the centipedes were obviously superior and fearless. The young girl called remaining centipedes to assemble in front of her, ¡°Ava knows Old Man can understand Ava¡¯s centipedes friends. It is enough for Old Man to listen them. Ava also confirms that Moss Worm usually pack their food like pellets, easier to carry around.¡± ¡°I see¡­guess this old man will do it.¡± The elder agreed to her assessment. The vicious insects had terrible fates so far. Perhaps he can lend an ear to them, solidarity in these dangerous caverns. Ava nodded in approval, ¡°Ava confirms. Restrictions on Old Man gauntlets are now released. Please be careful, there are a lot of work ahead.¡± ¡°Uh-hum. Oh yeah, I know we¡¯re talkin¡¯ for long time now but how many we need, young missy? Till them worms can do their thing.¡± Husan stopped in his tracks. The golden-haired girl answered, ¡°Ava worm friends told Ava they have seven main areas. To support us, they need to double that. It comes to getting thrice amount of small fishes or equivalent. We also need to watch for their predators.¡± ¡°Something out there can eat these worms?¡± The old man shook his head in disbelief, ¡°You know, I almost got done in by them¡­.¡± ¡°Ava confirms. Black Yellow Centipedes sometimes lure Ava worm friends out of their pools and eat them.¡± She replied with a blank face. Husan frowned, ¡°Cursed desert, it¡¯s them again. Can¡¯t we do something bout it?¡± ¡°Not at the moment, Old Man. We just need to be alert. Ava friends can handle the rest. They have been battling the centipedes for a long time.¡± The young girl dispersed the Azure Centipedes with the wave of her right hand. The old man had a headache by just thinking about it, ¡°Uh-huh, guess that¡¯s how it is. Oh, another thing, what if we use yer floatin¡¯ cylinder things again? Against those cursed black-yellow insects? I know yer have couple of them.¡± ¡°Ava would want to. But Ava is out of power.¡± She turned her gaze to the side. The four armed elder frantically waved his arms, ¡°Oh! No, no, no! I¡¯m just sayin; this old man is sorry.¡± ¡°Ava knows Old Man is worried. They cannot be used like the one before, but they are telling Ava what is coming.¡± The young girl stored the glowing plant she had put out earlier. Husan breathed in relief, ¡°Uhh¡­okay. So they¡¯re tripwires, got it. We just need to find new preys for them worms, right? And watch for those cursed black-yellow centipedes?¡± ¡°Ava confirms.¡± The Post Human walked to the edge of the shallow waters and summoned a different Moss Worm. She stood on it and it brought her to the other side. Husan was still uncomfortable with their enemy-turned-friends and thus he just swam across the waters. After confirming with Ava that she would be fine to be left with the worms, the old man went ahead with a couple of Azure Centipedes. The Post Human watched them depart into another tunnel. She devised her plans again; the old man was determined to be useful up to the point where the Moss Worm can radically increase their food production and numbers. It may take several days or a week but she was willing to wait. There was no ready chance to transfer Husan out of her planning anyway. There was indeed a lot of work pending; the subjugated Moss Worms had never cared about anything else than maintaining their broods. Expansions into new areas were limited by availability of flowing water and threat of predators. Consequently, the worms knew nothing outside of their current turfs. Therefore, the young girl coaxed some of the smaller worms to start scout deeper in the caverns, map it out. Another reason was that she noticed the shallow waters here contained some interesting trace compounds; sulphides and others that could¡¯ve been expected to come out from a hydrothermal vent. This collaborated on her observation that some of the things Moss Worms were farming required a bit of warmth and such trace compounds to grow. Caverns were usually deficient in just about anything and thus existence of such underwater vents was like an oasis in these nutrient poor caves. For the Post Human, they will feed into one of her foundations, to create all the necessary tools for world domination. Despite being primitive, natives of this strange world can fight back. Some of them will certainly stood in her way and she needed significant amount of force and quanta to remove them. Days had passed as Ava and her entourages worked on their respective objectives. Husan and the centipedes had been giving the worm broods new preys, allowing them to spawn three new broods. The Moss Worms lost twelve scouts for various reasons but they located four new hydrothermal vents. It was less than what Ava had hoped but she persevered. On one day however, one of her outward deployed cylinders informed her; there were some humanoids out there in their previous base. She didn¡¯t fully scan them as she was saving up her quanta. This might be the chance to remove Husan. The Post Human didn¡¯t tell the old man of the news as she recognized some of the new arrivals were similar to their previous pursuers in the desert up above. They didn¡¯t seem to be people she was familiar with and so, they might be another opportunistic pursuer, just like the probably dead Shalim. Ava quickly worked up a new plan; using Shalim as the baseline, she guessed these pursuers will ambush her and Husan at one point. She had shown enough back in Red Scorpions¡¯ lair and Crescent Sharks fights before and so they will try to avoid direct confrontations and strike from the shadows. What she didn¡¯t know however, whether they will go for the kill but considering her implied connection to Kazar City Lord, she doubt they would do anything funny. Ava assumed Muzaid and Makya had probably been captured by them and so she just needs to throw a wrench in their plans. Day by day, she could roughly sense they were getting closer. She decided to talk to Husan out of the blue, ¡°Old Man, how are things going on your end?¡± ¡°Well¡­we¡¯ve seen some Black Yellow Centipedes and escaped. Damned insects stole our prey.¡± Husan paused his steps and punched the wall. Ava signaled with her eyes and a few Moss Worms crept in the shallow waters, ¡°Ava confirms. Some of Ava¡¯s centipedes friends are injured, correct?¡± ¡°Uh yeah, Rakh. But it¡¯s nothing bad; with yer gauntlets, I wiped out those damned black-yellow stuff! We managed to bring Rakh back home.¡± The elder uplifted his head. He had always wanted a payback against those cursed insects. The young girl nodded, ¡°Ava confirms. Old Man, be careful.¡± ¡°What do young missy mea¡­¡± Before Husan could¡¯ve finished his sentence, the summoned worms launched their tentacles on Ava. It was over in a split second; the worms ripped apart her small body into halves, dragging them into the watery depths. Husan was glued in place, unable to respond in the slightest. Wait¡­what?!! When the realization struck the old man, he wanted to give chase but an unfamiliar gruff voice stopped him. ¡°Well, well, well. So that golden-haired brat amounted to such. Ah, that¡¯s fate, I guess. Old Man, lights out. Don¡¯t blame me, I¡¯m just doing my job.¡± Husan managed to ask a question before he lost his consciousness, ¡°Who in the desert are you?!!¡± ¡°Count.¡± C19 - Evolution Splash! Seven Moss Worms carried away their quarry, still warm inside the frigid shallows. Glowing moss illuminated the scene of murder, bright red in colour. Leeches and small critters exploited this bounty, gorging themselves with suffused blood. Husan wasn¡¯t here to witness, taken to heavens knew where. Siu, siu, siu! However, there was no free lunch in this world; each droplet of blood, each bit of torn flesh, each fragment of bones had stopped in their tracks. The suffused blood condensed into tiny strings, pulling on everything that had consumed them. Leeches, fishes, flies and others, all dragged into seven points. Sou! These seven points were the worms, unable to travel far as they too had succumbed to the bloody strings. Each one exploded from inside out, accumulating and agglomerating whatever the strings had tugged at. They morphed and twisted, as balls of pale white flesh, violetish ichor and bright red blood. It ended as soon as it began; these objects transformed back to their original appearance, Moss Worms. What was different was azure-coloured flashes on them, pulsating like a human¡¯s heart. This scene made some Azure Centipedes that happened to come back at this very moment to be perplexed. Neither Husan or Ava was here to be seen and this place was suspiciously clean save the seven Moss Worms. Fearing the worst, the centipedes rapidly assumed battle stances respectively. They still remembered on how these vicious worms had killed their kin, torn apart into nine pieces while alive. Ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh¡­ They opened their mandibles wide and clear, swaying their tails side to side. One of these strange Moss Worms dared to come close! Was it a friend or foe? The centipedes were stuck in a dilemma; Ava told them to not kill any of said worms yet it looked like it will attack them at any moment now. Thump! The centipedes found themselves backed into a corner as other six worms also joined the charge, moving even closer. Should they fight or flight? As they hesitated, the worms had stopped moving and instead stared at them. One of the centipedes decided to take the risk and approached the worms. It stayed a quarter zhang from the lead worm, still unsure what the worms were up to. Said lead worm extended two of its tentacles forward, causing the other centipedes to sway their tails in anger. The forward centipede raised its tail, telling its brethren to not fight and be prepared to run straight away. Bonk! The two hooked tentacles touched the upper carapace of the brave Azure Centipede. Contrary to its initial expectations, the lead worm didn¡¯t do anything else. This worm was definitely different but the centipede cannot tell what was it. It waited in silence until a familiar voice came directly to its mind. Ava! This worm and the six others were her! The centipede swayed its feelers up and down, still puzzled; why did she turned into one of their hated enemies? The worm backed off and extended four of its eleven tentacles to the side, adding even more confusion to the rest of the Azure Centipedes. Crack, clank, clank, clank! A cylindrical object rapidly assembled itself from thin air and on its receptacle, an Aqua Green Lily flower. There was no doubt about it, the worms were definitely her. Through the hovering cylinder, all vicious centipedes here were able to hear her voice. They then bowed, waiting her next commands. All seven Moss Worms with her presence extended their tentacles and touched the floating cylinder, causing it to light up. It sent out a faint azure wave outward, triggering similar objects distributed elsewhere in the Wadi to emit the same wave. All of them relayed a simple message; evacuate now. If recent clashes with Black Yellow Centipedes were to signify anything, they were too smart, too coordinated for their own kind. It was as if someone or something was directing them, just like what Ava did with the Azure Centipedes. She exercised prudence, calling for strategic retreat in all fronts. Another great exodus began, this time bolstered by the rest of Moss Worms broods. Azure Centipedes ran on the walls and ceilings while the worms swam through the waters. Each vicious creature took different routes but in highly coordinated fashion, to migrate to a new location deeper in the Wadi. In front of them was a desolate cavern; bubbling gasses choked, rising fumes corroded and boiling waters scalded. Life however, was tenacious; there were lifeforms that thrived in this noxious place. It was both a blessing and a curse; there were no predators around but the environment was hostile. Surviving Azure Centipedes raised their antennas out of fright; there was no way they can last even a second in there! Therein Ava finally recognized the problem, neither centipedes or worms were adapted to such harsh cave. Through her seven worm avatars, she instructed them to camp outside. Clank, clank, clank! Ava¡¯s hovering cylinder disassembled and sent away as even if it was around, the Post Human cannot use it anyway. The earlier summoning call had costed almost all of available quanta. Only a little of it was left now, making adaptations intended for her subjects to be harder than scaling the heavens. The Post Human was left with little choice but to face the problem head-on, to slowly alter her followers on the genetic level. It was a tedious and complicated process; countless Moss Worms never survived to the second generation. There was always a price for everything, and they paid it in full. Their sacrifices weren¡¯t in vain; later generations of Moss Worms were like carps that leaped over dragon¡¯s gate, thriving in these poisonous depths! Through Ava, they formed unions with existing life around the vents. Hydrogen sulphide and its ilk were no longer poisons but instead sources of food! The rest of her followers had also benefited, able to eat these brimstone fluids without any harm. Other creatures would die if exposed to such deadly liquids, if not cooked alive by the treacherous waters first. A silver lining in a looming cloud; Ava had learnt to make best use of her limited powers. Glug, glug, glug¡­ An evolved Moss Worm swam next to some of her worm avatars. It chewed through yellow rocks near a white smoker, giving rise to yellow dust among the whitish plumes from said vent. Others tended to pale fibrous mats on other hydrothermal vents. Some dragged bucket-sized purple crystals around. She ordered the worm to stop, re-examining the curious object. Whatever it was, it was able to survive in these harsh conditions too. She didn¡¯t know much of it apart it was a good conduit of energies and pretty durable. If it was to be graded, perhaps it was two ranks higher than Red Scorpion¡¯s dao core? What was more curious was some life were able to incorporate it in their bodies. Moss Worms had shown an example before, a ¡®living¡¯ sphere. On the ¡®black rock¡¯ she was originally searching; she still didn¡¯t manage to find it. With legions of evolved Moss Worms however, it was just a matter of time. In grander scheme of things, such black rock may prove inconsequential; through Akeila, Ava heard of Sulaymun Formations where great metallic riches existed, where they can be even mined out of the walls and floors! Alkharm Wadi on other hand seemed bit poor in comparison save the purple crystals. Ava cannot remain as a frog in a well, she needed to go and exploit the Formations for her cause. She checked her mental map; she was roughly one thousand lis southwest of Kazar. Sulaymun Formation was on cardinal west from the City. Getting there might sound easy but reality may prove otherwise.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. A week had passed after Husan was kidnapped. There was no doubt whoever Ava¡¯s pursuers were, they were quite capable. She didn¡¯t worry about the old man as these kidnappers would know her implied connections to the City Lord. Unfortunately, their work would be harder now as she had ¡®died¡¯. The Post Human didn¡¯t let her guard down as even an elephant will die if bitten by countless ants. She was out of quanta, had little information and subordinates not worth mentioning. Resuming her original form will attract too much attention. Reforming a new humanoid body would be too costly. Anyway, she shouldn¡¯t stay cooped up down here and instead further blend with the natives. To conquer the enemy is to conquer their minds and hearts. Perhaps she could unravel what was constantly interfering with her connection as well. It wasn¡¯t like any transcendent being she knew of. She put the matter aside and focused on tasks at hand. Her seven worm avatars bulged and twisted before converging into a single point to produce a metallic sphere. This shiny sphere then split into two smaller ones; one floated up to be picked by an Azure Centipede, the other sunk to the bottom. The picked-up sphere melted into a different centipede, giving it a pulsating azure glow. The sunk one dropped on a hydrothermal vent, morphing it into a humming metallic monolith. Ava had merged and split her consciousness; one to go out and explore, another to expand her dominion in the caverns. Gudong! This centipede host was novel; she was three times faster versus her young girl avatar. Flanking her was two Azure Centipedes that also ran as fast as the wind. Rocky obstacles? Bore through! Pesky critters? Tear through! Time was the essence, to avoid getting tangled by other vicious creatures here. The trio stopped as they spotted two yellow-striped black centipedes far in front. Why were they here? This wasn¡¯t anywhere close their battle lines. It looked like sneaking past them was impossible. She needed to kill both simultaneously so they can¡¯t call for backup. Ava signaled her escorts to be ready. Crack! Ava tapped the ground, conjuring multiple rock needles. Said needles flew and pinned her enemies in position. Before they could even react, she and her minions leaped forward and killed them in one hit. Their grey brain matter didn¡¯t have the chance to spill as Ava immediately stored their corpses away. The Post Human and her companions encountered such pairs in increasing frequency. It didn¡¯t look like the typical Black-Yellow Centipede advance groupings but instead as if they were trying to seal an area. Numerous questions played in her followers¡¯ minds but they kept silent and followed her lead. At some point of time, she abandoned killing the vicious centipedes altogether as their patrol pairs became more frequent. One wrong move and all of them would converge on her current position. She must¡¯ve got closer to what these Black-Yellow Centipedes were guarding against. What could it be? Kacha! The answer revealed itself; an unfortunate Black-Yellow Centipede was hit by a bolt of thunder! Turns out these centipedes were trying to hunt a group of Thunder Vipers. Each vicious viper was black jade in colour and had sparks radiating away from their bodies. Currently, the vipers had the upper hand. Either opponent was out of her league; Black-Yellow Centipedes had endless numbers while the vipers spat lightning non-stop. Ava instructed her minions to stay back and watch the situation unfold. As the saying goes, while the clam and sandpiper fight, the fisherman lurks near to swoop both of them! The conflict between the centipedes and vipers were getting intense over time. Black-Yellow Centipedes lost more than forty members, causing them to switch tactics; instead of engaging the vipers directly, they baited the vipers to go to area where stalactites and stalagmites were aplenty. Gudong! Boom! Multiple rock pillars fell, from Thunder Vipers¡¯ wanton attacks and the centipedes¡¯ missed poison shots. Within the dust clouds and rubbles Ava saw tens of bluish spheres, each contained a Thunder Viper. They were like incarnates of furious thunder gods, smiting those who dared to blaspheme them. Kacha and gudong noises continued to ring as the fight was to the death. Either party wished nothing more than to rip and tear! Devour their flesh! Kill their nine generations! It was getting even dangerous for the Post Human as they spared no expense in the conflict, not caring about the surroundings at all. Out of the sudden, multiple purple flashes entered the game. The vipers responded by spitting even more lightning but their attacks actually failed! Each purple flash no, purple crystal quickly absorbed the bolts like whales sucking in water. More purple crystals flew, thrown by Black-Yellow Centipedes. The vipers were startled for a second but they rapidly adapted to the situation, using their powerful tails to kick back the crystals. A few Black-Yellow Centipedes got their mandibles and heads smashed through but being centipedes, they still wriggled even in death. This only made their living kin furious. To Ava¡¯s surprise, the centipedes didn¡¯t charge in despite suffering mounting casualties. They only intensified their throwing, as if they were waiting for something. At the moment, Black-Yellow Centipedes got the Thunder Vipers cornered. For every one that died, ten more centipedes appeared. Crash! One of the vicious vipers got its head smashed by a purple crystal. A few more got injured as well. Ava focused her vision, to see what had happened. Most Thunder Vipers had their scales cracked there and there, and were slow to react. She gazed longer; poison! The crystals were laced with poisons! The result was obvious; the vipers no longer spat lightning and wobbled as if they were drunk. Their opponents saw this chance and swooped in for the kill. However, despite being poisoned, most vipers were still able to fight back. As the tale went, an old tiger is still a tiger, ferocious even at its deathbed! Both insects and cold-blooded reptiles tangled. Fangs and mandibles flew, red blood and yellow ichor spilled. A few Thunder Vipers ran, only to be boxed in. What came next was another surprise; said vipers exploded into balls of bluish plasma, vapourising themselves and their pursuers at once! This opened a hole in Black-Yellow Centipedes¡¯ cordon albeit Thunder Vipers lost more than half of their members now. Remaining ones glowed like rods of lightning, ridding themselves from poisons and caused blackish fumes to rise up. Nevertheless, their enemies had largely exhausted themselves. The vipers quickly scattered in all directions, knowing this was a losing war. Their enemies however, shown no mercy, hunting each viper with ruthless efficiency. Ava was glad she called a strategic retreat previously, avoiding those Black-Yellow Centipedes entirely. They were truly the scourges of the Wadi. Psht! Crack! Oh no! The rock in front of Ava was dissolved by a stray poison shot, revealing her and her minions to the belligerents! This stunned all parties but the chased viper was first to react, jumping toward Ava! Its pursuers followed suit, making loud ksh, ksh sounds! It seemed that a fight was inevitable after all. Ava reacted next, using her host to spit some brimstone fluid to one of the vicious centipedes. Her followers did the same, causing Black-Yellow Centipedes to be coated with the stuff. The escaping viper was puzzled at first but then it turned its head back; its enemies immediately burst into flames! Ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh!!! It was like killing a chicken to scare the monkeys. The rest of Black-Yellow Centipedes nervously backed off, brandishing their mandibles and tails in retaliation. They knew that if they got hit by any of those yellowish blobs of liquids shot by Ava¡¯s host and her minions, they will catch on fire and quickly die. Some were undeterred, throwing purple crystals at her. Ava effortlessly dodged and shot more fluids in return, causing her opponents to ignite. They roll and roll but to no avail; even if they dunked into the water, they were still burning! Black-Yellow Centipedes gradually seen her as their natural bane. This strange circumstance was broken with a loud hiss; multiple Black-Yellow Centipedes jumped on the viper from its blind spot! It trashed around, lashing its powerful tail to fling most centipedes away. But how can a tired soldier fight a thousand barbarians? The viper gradually ceased its last struggle. It wanted to self-detonate but the poison had weakened the snake. The viper maintained its gaze on Ava and her minions as its enemies ripped its flesh, as if to plead her to end its suffering from being eaten alive. Ava decided to comply, by engaging and burning most of Black-Yellow Centipedes here. The rest of the vicious insects rapidly made themselves scarce as they had recognized Mount Tai. After the dust had cleared, the Post Human and her entourages inspected the area. She peered at the collected corpses and for some unknown reason, chewed one through her host. It was poisonous! Her host quickly puked it out along with some brimstone fluids, setting the corpse on fire. Evidently, Black-Yellow Centipedes didn¡¯t taste good and completely unpalatable. Ava moved to a dead Thunder Viper and ate it. While it was also didn¡¯t taste good, she could feel some power surging in her host. Knowing and feeling it in practice was two different things; she knew that these monsters became stronger by consuming each other but it was a surreal experience. Ava decapitated another dead Thunder Viper and found a blackish sphere in it. It was different than her quanta but certainly curious. It collaborated on her observation that capable monsters would have such spheres in their bodies. Perhaps it was more apt to call them as dao cores which also served as the core of dao weapons. As dao weapons were fantastical by their own, their source namely vicious monsters would be as well. The Post Human ruminated the new information; if her host and minions under her command managed to kill and eat higher monsters, they too would grow in power. An alternate path to technological might of her original world. Nevertheless, her priority right now was to get out of here. C20 - Alter At this point Ava had half picul of spoils; twenty jins of purple crystals, fifteen jins Black-Yellow Centipede corpses, ten jins of dead Thunder Vipers and five jins of random plants. She would like to get metals but beggars can¡¯t be choosers. Metals can only be found by chance and not sought after. Among her minions, none were as informed as her to get said stuff. Metals would be last on their list as they had no reason to. Dabbling in directed evolution or figuring out ¡®dao¡¯ to make up for it will take too much time. She decided that doing what she knew best was better, for less headaches involved. Her other half was doing exactly that, creating equipment to get metals inside the molten earth down below albeit the first production was still a distant prospect. Either case, Sulaymun Formations would greatly expediate her objectives. She then shifted her gaze to her minions, thinking something else. They were chittering among themselves, excited over their victory over those damnable Black-Yellow Centipedes. Ava thoughted; the desert up above had none of their kin. She knew how mere mention of ¡®black rock¡¯ source had stirred many pursuers. Her minions now may elicit the same kind of greed! Ava thus explained it to her followers, only to meet with swift rejection; the path beyond is hers alone? Unthinkable! Her two minions were reluctant to let their messiah go unescorted, insistent to follow her anywhere and everywhere. They went as far to pin her host down in place, not allowing it to move. The Post Human was irked and wanted to kill them but she refrained. She assured them that even if her current host had died, she was still with them; the monolith was another her. The clincher was her promise that she would now make a suitable Broodmother for these evolved Azure Centipedes. Her minions finally relented; when they thought of it, it was true that the boundless deserts above didn¡¯t have any centipedes like them to speak of. Ava had also told them on how intelligent beings would aggressively hunt novel creatures. And so, if they go with her, it will only incite endless trouble! They raised their antennas in skepticism given Ava herself was also one of them now. How would she fool such greedy purveyors? What, will Master morph into something else now? Unexpectedly, she told them she will do just that, by changing her form into a creature that can be found in the desert. Her minions gave her some space, curious on how she would do it. She started by tapping the ground a few times, flattening it in particular dimensions. She tapped again and several corpses appeared in place. Her action confused the evolved Azure Centipedes; what can she do with such corpses anyway? Kshak! Blurg, blurg, blurg! Gurgling noises came from squirming corpses, each stabbed by bloody strings from her host. They grabbed carapaces of dead Black-Yellow Centipedes, red flesh of fishes and mangled Thunder Vipers. The crowning jewel was an intact viper¡¯s head, the now dead snake that pleaded for her mercy before. The bloody strings turned taut, bringing the connecting corpses close. The dead flesh came alive, seething and writhing as said strings sewn them together. Putrid pus and undesirables were belched out before new skin grew to cover the gaps. At this point, Ava commanded her host to come closer. A brilliant sphere was ejected from her centipede host and melted into this new ¡®lifeform¡¯. For the untrained eyes, her new host was no different than a Thunder Viper; it was half-zhang long and had jade-like black scales. Her first movements were awkward as she was used to have legs to get around. Ava¡¯s previous host had gained its clarity and joined the other two minions, puzzled on what had just happened. Its brethren explained it all, although it was still confused. She didn¡¯t mind them as she was more focused to master her new form. Eventually she got the knack of it, slithering her way at random. Her attempt to spit lightning had failed; a ball of lightning appeared in her mouth before rapidly deflating like a punctured balloon. So, there was a limit on how far she can mimic the real viper. Nevertheless, she didn¡¯t get discouraged; it was enough to be a clay tile rather than a broken jade! Ava failed yet again when she tried to talk as only hissing sounds came out. Did it mean the memories she extracted from slaves she helped to meet the dao were wrong? They had met with talking beasts before. Perhaps not all vicious beasts can talk except for select few. She put the matter aside for now. Ksh, ksh, ksh, ksh¡­ She turned around, seeing her minions clamouring at her. They had long abandoned the thought to convince her to stay and now asked her on what to do next. Should they continue to hunt other vicious creatures or hold the fort here for her? All three were itching to duke it out, to fight more monsters! Ava reply however disappointed them; she told them to come back whence they came. One of them even swayed its tail side to side in anger! She gave it a side eye, causing it to back off. The Post Human thus lectured them that their numbers were too insufficient. Right now, they were just courting death! Her minions kowtowed as she was right; what if more Black-Yellow Centipedes appeared? An elephant could still die when stung by endless ants. Without her leadership, they would only deliver themselves on silver platters to their enemies. Alkharm Wadi was still full of hidden tigers and crouching dragons! Her followers acquiesced to her demands and left to the shadows. With them gone, Ava entered a different cavern. As she progressed, it became brighter until she encountered a small clear lake. Further out was a five zhang-tall waterfall, flanked by verdant plant life and patches of glowing mosses. Dews formed on her scales as she drew near. Small critters escaped as her shadow grew larger. Her reflection over yonder became clearer; a jade-black snake poised to strike. Beneath her visage was veritable plants that undulated in waves. A bit deeper hinted at chasms and gaps that led to unknowns. Next, Ava placed her gaze to the crest of the waterfall; by tracing its source, she was hopeful that she could meet civilized beings to advance her goals. Relying on hearsay and memories from people she dispatched can only go so far. Twas a regret that previously she skipped visiting libraries of Kazar City. Ava summoned her previous attire, a loose-fitting robe and matching boots. Gasp! This was no time to get cozy! She slapped herself and got out of the robe. The Post Human tapped her attires with her snake form¡¯s tail next, causing them to unravel into number of rods and bundles of braided metal wire.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Kechak, kechak, kechak! Ava threw tens of such rods with none succeeding. Eventually she got the hang of it and made herself a new path upwards; each rod was firmly secured into surrounding rocks in particular distance respectively. She jumped on the braided metal wire connecting the rods and slithered her way up. The space above was smaller than the lake below, it was no more than one zhang wide and three zhangs long. Multiple rocks littered the area, flanking the gully that terminated into a rocky wall upstream. She tapped the last metal rod and all said rods vanished including their connecting wires. Hm? The waterfall¡¯s gully was too uniform as if someone or something built it. It had all the sharp angles and stuff, obviously timeworn and waterworn. Ava peered at rocky debris next, finding some scribbles on them. Did the creatures of Alkharm Wadi make it? No, they weren¡¯t that smart to do so. Unfortunately, the scribbles were illegible and more likely to be just random scratches. The waterfall source however was another story; when it was combined with her other observations, they suggested that an ancient civilization once flourished here but for unknown reasons, ceased to be. Then life, being tenacious, reclaimed them. Perhaps whoever ordered Husan to be kidnapped saw him and Ava as obstacles? Herla had told her on how mere mention of ancient relics incite unadulterated greed. Friends turned into enemies. People turned into murderers. All for the sake of some trinkets! The other theory was that such party intended to use her and Husan for ransom. They obviously had seen feats achieved by her and presumed she was someone important. For better or worse, she had this kind of modus operandi before; she lured them with feats, entrap them and then consumed them. Ava¡¯s miscalculation was that she got too involved with Husan and co. As the saying went, even though a squirrel is smart at jumping, it will eventually fall. Prior her visit to Kazar, she had seen how the smallest mistakes prelude to disasters. A town was wiped out thanks to someone forgetting to patrol! Either theory poked holes in her plans; knowing little was same as knowing nothing. She didn¡¯t know about the lost civilization or unknown party. When she weighted the pros and cons, rescuing Husan might be worth it. Whoever backing ¡®Count¡¯ seemed to be influential and a tempting target to her. Searching the old man might be similar to look for a needle in a haystack but no longer; Ava thought it was wasteful to bestow him with Void Gauntlets but they can be tracked down. And if the unknown party was quite greedy, they will keep Husan alive in order to pry his secrets and origin of said device. Now, where would be Husan held captive? Out of five towns surrounding city of Kazar, Ava down selected to two candidates; Kafaz and Sujk. If Kazar was blade mecca, Kafaz was about gauntlets and the like. Sujk on the other hand dabbled in trades of spices, herbs and professions involved thereof. Would the perpetrator choose Kafaz? No, a proper organization isn¡¯t a frog in a well. Ava set her course to Sujk town; medicines were both cures and ills. It wouldn¡¯t be strange if there were any that can loose lips. Hopefully the full suit she gave to Husan continued to protect him as loose lips sink ships. Splash! After swimming a little bit, she overcame the water current. The aqueduct ahead was half zhang tall and wide. To her surprise, it was illuminated at near regular intervals by glowing plants and some purple crystals. Time exacted its price but it was obvious that this channel was a relic of bygone era. Her snake body clacked and formed sets of gills, enabling it to breathe underwater. A portion of her scales creaked next and some of them were launched ahead. This aqueduct was more complex than she had imagined; she encountered no less than seven junctions and number of big reservoirs of water. Gudong! Ava sent a blind eel careening to an underwater wall after it bit her. However, it was tenacious and gave chase. She swatted the nuisance again and this time it was swept away by the water current. Was that the end of it? She pulled her thoughts back; even more of them emerged from nearby holes! Even if Alkharm Wadi had ancient ruins, it was still a den of monsters thorough and thorough. She ignored the group of eels and slipped past them. This group snowballed into thirty of such things, persistently tailed everywhere she went. It got up to the point where she can¡¯t ignore them any longer. Bzzt! With her at the center, a powerful electric field enveloped all of the blind eels. She tuned it just enough to stun them as she had other plans for these creatures. With glug glug sounds, some of her scales launched off and latched on them, one scale for one eel. Under two breaths, all of them were marked. Her missing scales regrew as the marked eels spread out in all directions. They were now her eyes and ears in this place, to explore mysteries of the aqueduct. Thanks to them, her ascent to the surface was much easier! Unfortunately, some of them were eaten by their other brethren that weren¡¯t marked. While she wasn¡¯t fully concerned about her new pawns, losing all of them would be a waste. Eventually, the Post-Human micromanaged their movements to avoid predators and dangers lurking in these channels. Four blind eels, half the size her snake form was set aside as seeds for future use. Most of the time, she made the eels took the long way. Others, she joined them and thrashed the oppositions. Losses were inevitable as she ventured deeper into the maze of aqueducts. From the thirty or so blind eels she commandeered; Ava was left with six sans the four eels she set aside earlier. Eventually after toiling for heavens knew how long, Ava saw the light at the end of the aqueduct channels! After this peculiar reservoir was a two peoples¡¯ wide chasm connected to an oasis above. Ava dismissed her followers at this point as when one of them came, it violently twitched and died. There seemed to be a boundary of sorts in the reservoir, with upper waters being less salty but she paid it no heed. Underwater purple crystals had long ceased to be as she navigated in utter darkness. She entered the chasm and swam upwards. It had some twists and turns but otherwise uneventful. Blub! Ava emerged into a bowl-shaped lake full of plant life yet scarce fishes. The sunlight was receding across the water¡¯s surface, just in time before she was plunged into darkness again. After waiting the sunset to complete, she looked at the stars and calculated her position; she was hundred lis from Sujk. She laid low in the oasis lake, waiting until night made landfall. It would be easier for her to sneak around in midst of night. The oasis was distinct from others she had visited before; there weren¡¯t many plants on the water¡¯s edge. This place had gentle slopes and wide circumference, a sign of use. For first few nights, Ava hadn¡¯t encountered any civilized beings and she took this chance to understand the location. Visitors to the oasis were more likely to enter from the south and set up camp east. From this she figured there might be caravans using it as transit between Sujk and Kazar. There were occasional visiting creatures but none warranted her attention. At most it would be a couple of wild Javalan Flies or a few Gale Sparrows. Plant life were largely homogeneous, indicating whoever used the oasis had largely stripped it off from useful ones. This oasis saw some healthy traffic. On the seventh night, there were finally some visitors! Ava had long left the lake and made herself a disguised burrow on rocky land, to listen to ground vibrations. From the footsteps, she estimated the newcomers were twelve in numbers; perhaps two Sand Komodos, six camels plus the rest, people. Crack! Thump, thump! The newcomers had just arrived and setting up tents and stuff. Ava silently slithered closer, to take a closer look on them. Based on her conversations with Herla, this looked like a small merchant caravan. They had cloaks and face veils on them, making it hard to see their faces. Their voices however, were clear. ¡°Abbas, you heard news on the wind? Kazar¡¯s City Lord is pretty furious now, for some reason.¡± C21 - Caravan Thwack! Ava halted her movement as a small dagger embedded itself on a random stone not far from her. She glanced around and saw the culprit, a middle-aged man caked with sand. Her cover was blown! The dusty, bearded man locked his eyes with her and was prepared to throw yet another dagger at her. As if it was a divine intervention or a fluke, a male voice stopped the bearded man in his steps. ¡°Brother Farhan, what are you doing?¡± ¡°Shhs. Be quiet Salaman.¡± The bearded man had drawn another dagger from his waist and waved it dismissively at said voice owner. ¡°Brother Farhan, something¡¯s wrong?¡± The man with name of Salaman inched closer to Farhan. He also caught sight of Ava, ¡°Oh? That¡¯s just maluska snake, Brother. Look closely. It has different scales than the real Thunder Viper.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Farhan gave a puzzled look to his brown-eyed friend. ¡°Maluska? At this place?¡± ¡°Yeah Brother. If it¡¯s the real thing, we¡¯ll all be dead by now.¡± Salaman shrugged his shoulders in response. Farhan withdrew his copper-coloured dagger and didn¡¯t press the issue. ¡°Ha-ah. Sorry, Brother. We¡¯re been in this trek for too long.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s get a good rest here, Brother Farhan. The pay won¡¯t disappoint you.¡± Salaman gave Ava¡¯s snake form one last look and ignored her for there were many works pending. Next, he looked at his left side. ¡°Sorry, Abbas.¡± ¡°It¡¯s but a small matter! Now, can you tell me about Kazar? Why is Kazar City Lord furious, Brother?¡± The owner of the voice was another middle-aged man with spirited eyes. He ignored Ava completely and barked orders to the rest of his men with gruff voice. ¡°Long story short, someone went missing, Brother.¡± Salaman explained in a few words. His statement invoked much incredulity to Abbas and his cautious friend Farhan. The rotund Abbas opened his turban and dusted it off. Handfuls of sand fell from it. ¡°Missing? People went missing all the time in these badlands, Brother.¡± ¡°Brother Abbas is right, Salaman.¡± Farhan chimed in as he procured a small wooden stool from one of their camels. At this point Ava had slithered out of their collective sights and hid herself among one of many water palm trees dotting the oasis. She kept her senses on them and heard Salaman continuing with his story, ¡°There¡¯s no denying that but apparently this someone is someone special.¡± Abbas rubbed his belly in disbelief, ¡°What else could it be, Brother? His son or something? I know the Sheikh have a harem but he doesn¡¯t have any sons until now.¡± ¡°Could it be from a foreign sect? Or a caliphate?¡± Farhan took back his thrown dagger and had knotted eyebrows. Where¡¯s that maluska snake went? Is it¡­just a maluska? ¡°Almost correct, Brother.¡± Salaman chuckled at his friend¡¯s guess. He proceeded to open his shoes and emptied the lodged sands. ¡°I heard from my good brother in Kazar that it¡¯s someone from Al-Najmad Jihad. Possibly a commander or a sheikh.¡± After a short silence, Abbas spoke. ¡°That Jihad? Isn¡¯t it a failure, Brother? Even Khanassat Sultanate admitted it!¡± ¡°There¡¯s no mistake. The token shown by my good friend is genuine, Brother Abbas.¡± Salaman replied while hinting his source of information was truthful. Farhan excused himself at the two men sitting near the oasis¡¯s water edge. ¡°Sorry Brothers. I feel like I have more use to help your men set up camp.¡± ¡°That¡¯s fine, Brother. Rest well.¡± The fat Abbas didn¡¯t take offense and simply nodded at the bearded man. He twirled his mustache and faced Salaman again. ¡°Why would Kazar¡¯s Sheikh be angry about that?¡± ¡°Some of Kazar¡¯s finest men joined the Jihad.¡± Salaman gestured with his hand. ¡°Elites. When this person went to the City and presented Najmad¡¯s token, that means a part of the Jihad survived. Yet this person disappeared afterwards.¡± ¡°I see, Brother. The Sheikh lost the only clue he had. No wonder he¡¯s furious.¡± Abbas nodded at his reasonable argument. His face frowned a little. ¡°Wait¡­does the Sultanate knows about this? And of other powers?¡± ¡°A matter of time, Brother Abbas. I¡¯m not sure if we traders can make through it.¡± There were traces of worry and fear in Salaman¡¯s tone. The fat man was grim at the prospect as well. ¡°The treaty is still valid, right?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure about that either. This case can easily blow up. You know how things are in Kazar.¡± Salaman muttered with unsteady voice. He sighed, ¡°That¡¯s¡­one thing. Then there¡¯s Silver Shaitan and Djinn Wails.¡± ¡°Oh, I heard about that.¡± Abbas nodded at one of his men and beckoned Salaman to follow him. ¡°The winds said if we encounter any, we¡¯re good as damned!¡± Ava slithered out of the tree as their voices became faint. Salaman answered the fat man with a shudder. ¡°That¡¯s right, Brother. Both will eat people. Not even bones will be left!¡± The Post Human traveled perpendicularly and stopped in place to take a wider look; there were seven makeshift tents that surrounded a crackling fire pit. Abbas and his friends were merry, drinking some sweet-smelling beverages and eating roasted fishes. Their mounts on the other hand were grazing. She peered around and counted there were ten people. Abbas¡¯s pot belly indicated he was a successful caravan merchant. Salaman on his side had intelligent eyes and golden tongue. Farhan was a man of few words and, alert. As for the rest, she didn¡¯t know their names but they looked like men of labour. Ava kept her distance as the middle-aged man with daggers seemed troublesome. She considered to kill Farhan but decided not to as she wanted to know more about the caravan. Her powers were also lacking, not enough to fully silence them. Perhaps these mortals can be later turned into her proxies? Her musings were interrupted when she caught word of the caravan next destination. Merchant Abbas wasn¡¯t going to either Kafaz or Sujk but instead Najaj, some tens of lis from two former towns. Ava knew little of such town except that it had large souks of silk judging by their discussion and wares. The Post Human paused her emulation of a snake and became completely devoid of any signs of biological life. With that done, she moved closer to the caravan¡¯s beasts to verify her thoughts. There were three Sand Komodos curling on the ground and seven camels doing the same a distance away.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it. It seemed that Ava needs to further hone her senses! This snake avatar was inconvenient and can only exhibit a silver of her previous abilities. She advanced forward, taking care to not startle the beasts as Sand Komodos were particularly sensitive to hidden dangers. She was now a few zhangs from them. Crick! Ava immediately halted. Someone was coming and thus she laid low on the ground. From the motions of this new person, she guessed it to be Farhan. What is he doing here? The bearded man glanced at the beasts for a moment and then turned back to his tent. Even until now, he was unnaturally vigilant. The Post Human recalled something when she observed him from afar. Her line of thought was stopped as second part of her, the monolith in Alkharm Wadi contacted her; her mining operation had encountered an odd situation. Few hundred lis below the earth, a cave half-filled with lava was found. Such pockets weren¡¯t unusual if not a bit rare but the intriguing part was curious energy fluctuations from the lava pool. Suddenly, a fish-like being jumped out and landed back in the pool with a splash. The few zhangs-long creature was clad in crimson fire and unlike any other life forms known to her. Another anomaly spotted by her other half was several deep purple pillars jutting out on the left side of said pool. Out of five, three were intact if not missing their capitals. For some reason, the fiery lifeforms weren¡¯t willing to come close to them. Ava didn¡¯t know why but felt the pillars can aid her. She communed with her other half and modified her plans; the mining equipment etcetera were shifted in proximity of the half-submerged columns. Investigating the fiery organisms can be saved for later as building her foundation came first. She concluded the connection and focused in her vicinity. Slash! A twig in front of her was sliced into two. A man voice was heard afterwards, ¡°There¡¯s nothing? Hmm...¡± ¡°Brother Farhan! What are you doing out here late?¡± Another voice from the side. From her enclosed position, Ava stared at the bearded man. He twirled his dagger back to its holster and spoke in hushed tone. ¡°Oh Brother Salaman! I felt there¡¯s a presence just now.¡± ¡°What else could it be, Brother?¡± Salaman¡¯s reflection was clear on the oasis¡¯s lake thanks to the full moon. He wore a confused expression. ¡°Perhaps the desert winds toiled upon you, Farhan?¡± ¡°You might be right, Brother.¡± Farhan sighed and joined his friend. His voice became faint with distance. ¡°A little caution goes a long way.¡± ¡°I agree. However, rest at ease as we depart in the first crack of dawn.¡± Salaman patted Farhan¡¯s back as he led the way back to their camp. Ava¡¯s snake avatar was bereft from life yet Farhan almost discovered her again. She found it puzzling and amusing given he didn¡¯t exhibit peculiarities of so-called immortal cultivators. The Post Human had heard rumours of such super-beings in her trek before Kazar and was looking for one ever since. The brown-eyed middle-aged man was evidently not one, yet his unusually sharp perception piqued her interest. Was he a cultivator in disguise or a well-trained mortal? It could go either way as Ava was short in information. As such, she decided to observe this man and delay her plans regarding Husan. Whatever the case with the four-armed old man, Ava was confident that he was alive for the time being as dead men tell no tales. There was also the enraged Kazarian Sheikh that undoubtedly amped their presence to scour nearby lands. She could always rush to Husan as Najaj wasn¡¯t far from Sujk. However, there was always a possibility that Husan wasn¡¯t in any of towns around Kazar. If that was the case, Ava had little choice than to abandon old man. The devices she made for him were irrelevant in the bigger picture. Even if the kidnappers took it by force, they wouldn¡¯t be able to use it for long. With new plans in mind, Ava waited for dawn. She made her way to one of camels owned by Abbas and entered its side bag. Sometimes, the most dangerous spot was also the safest! Farhan had keen senses and thus trailing them from behind wasn¡¯t feasible. However, he wouldn¡¯t look at their beasts. Dawn approached with a shout from the fat merchant Abbas, ¡°Men! To the desert!¡± ¡°Yes, master!¡± His working men gave loud roars, startling some nesting Gale Sparrows. The caravan left the oasis in its earnest after the first morning dew dropped to the ground. Salaman was in the front, followed by Abbas, the men of labour and finally Farhan. All of Abbas¡¯s working men either walked or rode their camels. The fat merchant, Salaman and Farhan rode their Sand Komodos. After some time, Salaman spoke some words to Abbas and then joined Farhan in the back of the caravan. ¡°Brother, what ills you? Did you not get enough rest or this travel wears you?¡± ¡°Oh.¡± The middle-aged man was absent-mindedly flipping one of his daggers. It took a short pause for him to answer the scholarly-alike Salaman. ¡°I am sorry to worry you, Brother Salaman. I feel a premonition.¡± ¡°Premonition, Farhan?¡± Salaman furrowed his brows as he glanced left and right. After noticing no one else was within earshot, he continued. ¡°Of current or of past, Brother?¡± ¡°Of current. I feel like we shouldn¡¯t enter Najaj or left the oasis.¡± The middle-aged man stowed his dagger away as he faced Salaman. Salaman put up a thinking expression as he mulled over the statement. ¡°Did you receive an omen, Brother?¡± ¡°Apart from the maluska, I afraid I have to disappoint you, my good friend.¡± This time Farhan wore a frown as he brushed his beard. He sighed next. ¡°Words are, maluska is a mysterious omen.¡± ¡°That¡¯s just hearsay, Brother. How do heavens deal with the likes of us? We are but mortals, ants to them.¡± Salaman arched his eyebrows. Their conversation was interrupted by the rotund merchant. ¡°Brothers, is there something wrong? Why are you huddling together at the back?¡± ¡°Our brother Farhan have a foreboding feeling, Brother Abbas.¡± Salaman answered in place of Farhan. Farhan quipped him as Abbas became suspicious. ¡°It is as he said, Brother. I feel at ill ease as if I cannot see things ahead.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Abbas contemplated for a moment. Contrary to the middle-aged man¡¯s expectation, the fat merchant didn¡¯t pry any further. ¡°Which reward do not come with risk? We shall advance.¡± Salaman had a wry smile. ¡°It is as you say, Brother.¡± He then turned to Farhan. ¡°Worry not, my friend. If it comes, let it be. We have good men! Even bandits would steer away from us!¡± Ava agreed with his assessment. From the men¡¯s physique alone, they were no slouch and could hold their own against common bandits. Farhan himself was sharp, precluding any ambushes. Abbas might have a dao weapon while Salaman looked like a tactician. What trouble could plague Farhan¡¯s mind? The journey went with little fanfare as the Sun marched in the cloudless sky. There were some desert winds but they were minor. Farhan alternated between worry and relief in their current journey. The Post Human became more and more interested toward this man. What did he sense? What was it? She calculated in her mind; there were only tens of lis left before Najaj! The sharp-eyed Farhan however raised his hand, stopping the entire caravan in place. His line of sight was followed by the rest of the men. Far off in the distance, there were several dust devils tearing through the sandy dunes. Abbas was first to speak albeit in a slow tone. ¡°Brothers, what do you make of it?¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t the time or place for them.¡± Salaman had a grave tone. He glanced at Farhan to his side. ¡°What do you think, Brother Farhan?¡± ¡°I afraid it isn¡¯t good news, Brothers.¡± The brown-eyed Farhan had a pensive face. He talked with measured intonations. ¡°Nothing good will come out of it. We should either hide or detour.¡± ¡°We will detour, Brother Farhan. There¡¯s little to hide in, out here.¡± Abbas finally came to a decision. While he wasn¡¯t superstitious, he felt some dread from the dust devils and wished nothing more to escape from this place. Salaman gave the dust devils another gaze, a fearful one at that. ¡°What evils lurk in them, Brother Farhan?¡± ¡°We shall talk none of it, Brother. Let us depart quickly and, silently.¡± Farhan shook his head, signifying his refusal. There was an eerie silence enveloping the caravan as they wordlessly took opposite direction to the twirling dust columns. Harrowing noises could be seldom heard as the twisters moved around. Ava became alert as she detected some kind of fluctuations behind them. The dust devils had caught up! A raspy, unknown gender voice came to stop the caravan in their tracks. ¡°Hehehe! Why are you turning back, my friiiiennnds?!¡± C22 - Foreign Dao The arrival of the mysterious voice had rooted the caravan in place. Each member of the group felt as if a sword of Damocles was hanging on top of their heads, ready to slay them without the slightest resistance. However, they all had different expressions; Abbas¡¯s men of labours were utterly terrified. The fat merchant had trembling hands, unsure if he should use his hidden trump cards. Salaman was better off but his expression was dark. His friend Farhan heavily frowned and didn¡¯t betray any movements. Ava on the other hand simply listened with interest, to see what was this new being was. The atmosphere was icy figuratively and literally as the blazing sun was quarter deep in the horizon. Salaman bit his tongue and mustered his courage. ¡°O¡¯ Great One¡­. How can we assist? We are but mortals, weary¡­.in our travels.¡± ¡°Hehehe! This great one had never seen a brave mortal!¡± The voice spoke with rhythmic patterns, gnawing at the sanities of the men present. ¡°Since you are brave¡­. this great one¡­wanted to know¡­where is the silver shaitan!???¡± Salaman drawn a blank face at the question. He gulped and continued. ¡°O¡¯ Great One¡­ We had never encountered or know this¡­being¡­Great One speaks of.¡± ¡°Oh? Do not¡­lie to me. You mortals were speaking about it.¡± The voice became clearer than ever as if it was personally whispering to each and every man in the caravan. The scholarly man blanked for a second before realizing they had just brushed with death. As this mysterious being had yet to kill the whole caravan, it may just seek some answers. Salaman became hopeful that was the case and answered in serious tone. There¡¯s no point lying to this great being! ¡°O¡¯ Great One¡­if we knew where is it, we wouldn¡¯t¡­be here, Great One. All would be¡­naught!¡± The voice harrumphed as what Salaman said was right; mere mortals can¡¯t hope to survive the illusory Silver Shaitan if they did encounter it. Yet these mortals somehow knew the existence of such being? It pondered for a while. Perhaps some higher beings found the demon and fled, creating the rumours. Salaman and his companions were shaking in their boots as a formless pressure spread all over their bodies. Evidently the being was displeasured on hearing his answer. He could only give out a wry smile as it was the truth! Unfortunately, not everyone was stoic; one of Abbas¡¯s men ran away in fright! Farhan was alarmed and wanted to warn the man but it was too late; a torrent of dark wind appeared and swept the man backwards. His shriek was cut off before bone-crunching sound was heard. By now all men in the caravan knew better to stay still. Some inwardly cursed while others soiled their pants. This standoff invited interest from Ava as her avatar had limited sensing capabilities. She raised her snake avatar¡¯s head to peer outside of her hiding spot. She saw five dark fogs; the center one was humanoid-shaped, flanked by four smaller snake-like fogs. Two of them were chewing on something. As their gazes met, the humanoid-shaped fog shuddered and its fiery green ¡®eyes¡¯ contracted in fraction of a second. ¡°Yi!!! Foreign dao! fOrEiGn dAo!¡± For some reason unknown to Ava, it wailed and spurred the four snake-like fogs straight at her. ¡°Kill it! KILL IT! KILL IT NOW!¡± Mortals in the caravan was dumbstruck and shellshocked by its wails. Farhan forcibly resisted it and sent words to his friend Salaman to his right. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Brother!¡± ¡°What¡­¡± Farhan¡¯s words mysteriously clarified Salaman¡¯s mind. His statement was cut short as Farhan was no longer in his sight! The middle-aged man pumped his left hand to the dusk sky and with a thunderous shout, an emblem of bronze lion was projected above. His battle cry immediately awakens the rest of the caravan as he muttered some complex chants. The projection then split into smaller ones and shot to his brethren. ¡°Do not evade it brothers! My mudras will keep you safe!¡± Farhan formed series of mudras and several symbols rapidly scattered in his vicinity. At the same time, five glowing daggers flew from his sleeves. Now that this shaitan recognized me, fight then it is! The central fog sneered at his action and simply commanded its minions to evade but what came next shocked it; Farhan¡¯s daggers split into three pieces each and arced through air in hot pursuit of them. All daggers struck true, causing snake-like fogs to scream in agony before dissolving into nothingness! This caused the big fog to falter and ignited its fury; its flaming eyes became brighter and it apparated from its spot, narrowly missing the daggers aimed at it. The formless being emerged some zhangs away and started to screech, sending visible sound waves. Farhan countered it by roaring like a lion! Gudong! The exchange only lasted a fraction of a second as each combatant was forced back from the resulting shockwaves. Farhan wore a heavy expression as he formed yet another series of mudras, this time sending multiple mystical characters to the ground and to the errant fog. This will be a difficult battle! The fog merely viewed him with contempt until it saw the faces of the rest of Abbas¡¯s caravan. They were stunned but they weren¡¯t what it initially expected. A sudden realization dawned upon it; Farhan had somehow neutralized majority of its soul attacks directed to them in advance! It scattered and avoided his conjured characters with ease. ¡°Hateful! Foreign dao, I will kill you! Eat your soul!¡± ¡°Brothers! Snap out of it! We need to slay this shaitan quick!¡± The middle-aged man rolled as a sharp gust of black wind swiped his turban. The turban later disintegrated into powder, shocking him. He somersaulted to the left in order to open some distance. The big fog didn¡¯t relent and continued to parry him with frenzied attacks. It knew that once Farhan fell, the rest would be easy pickings! Farhan of course won¡¯t resign to his fate. He threw a punch with his left hand and a zhang-wide projection of bronze lion came out, roaring all the way to meet the fog. The sinister black fog cannot help than to scatter as it vaguely sensed his powers were its bane. Farhan saw this but wasn¡¯t flustered; with lion-like cries, multiple lion emblems rose from the ground to surround the evil fog. Each emblem transformed into sand lions in mere moments and pounced at it. Roar, roar, roar! Three sand lions tangled with the black fog as it darted from one place to the next. The remaining four stood back and sent energy shockwaves to trap the devious fog in place. Farhan however, felt something was amiss. Was it too easy? This evil fog must be hiding something in its proverbial sleeves! Hualalala! Sure enough, something did go wrong; in their perplexed dazes, the caravan wasn¡¯t aware of the fog¡¯s devious plan. Two of Abbas¡¯s men of labour were impaled by their own shadows. Said shadows then squirmed and sucked them dry! This ghastly sight immediately sent waves of furor to the mortals.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! Before they can even react, the shadows dispersed into nothing. The evil fog eerily laughed at them as four snake-like clouds were manifested at its side! With its newfound reinforcement, the formless being managed to extract itself from Farhan¡¯s sand lions¡¯ trap and flew toward the middle-aged man. Salaman recovered from his shock. ¡°Blood sacrifice! It¡¯s a second circle shaitan!¡± In his alarm, he too chanted something under his breath and produced a small glittering, red whip. ¡°Brothers! Use nars! Avert your gaze!¡± ¡°Humph! This great one will take care of you first!¡± The billowing dark cloud deviated from Farhan as Salaman managed to perceive some of its abilities. Abbas reacted next and threw a slew of stuff to his men. He himself brandished a glowing red scimitar. ¡°Shaitan! Go away!¡± ¡°Salaman! Endure!¡± Farhan can only give a short yelp as some of the newly created serpentine fogs eluded his sand lions and came for his head. The middle-aged man was forced into a defensive posture as said snake-like fogs were equally troublesome as the big evil fog. The combined defense of Abbas and his labourers barely fended the evil black fog. It snorted in rage as it barreled back to Farhan. Although the men were beneath its notice, the fog knew better to not touch their fiery dao weapons. ¡°Humph! You got lucky, puny insects! I¡¯ll kill you, foreign dao!¡± ¡°Meet your doom, shaitan!¡± Seeing his conjured lions didn¡¯t have much effect, Farhan forcibly canceled his current technique. Beads of sweat fell from his face as said illusionary emblems slammed into his body in short span of few breaths. He quickly gained a faint bronze aura and a shimmering light blade on his left hand. ¡°Brothers! Believe in me! We can slay this shaitan!¡± ¡°Hehehehe! What can your puny trick ca¡­¡± The evil fog cackled halfway and swallowed its words next. Farhan was more fearsome than before! Whenever his light blade touched any of its minions or bits of its main fog body, they sizzled into oblivion! It shouted again, in anger and in pain! ¡°ARGH! Foreign dao! FOREIGN DAO!!!!¡± ¡°Aiiieee!!!¡± ¡°AHHHH!!!¡± Two screams broke out at the same time. Both Salaman and Abbas turned around and saw two shadows had reaped another life each! The survivors quickly lashed their fiery weapons at the shadows lest they escape. One was cut down then and there but another slipped out of their grasp! ¡°Wait brothers!¡± Farhan ceased his swings and formed new mudras in order to save them. Woe to him as the evil fog obviously won¡¯t allow him! The fog shook upon the death of the first shadow as if it took grievous damage but the second shadow turned the tables by merging with itself. The evil fog then let out a raspy laugh as its greenish eyes shone as bright as twin lanterns. ¡°Hehehehe! More souls! More blood!¡± ¡°Ahhh! Don¡¯t come near me!!!¡± ¡°Wait, wait! Don¡¯t hit me!!! I¡¯m too young to die!!!¡± Confusion was abounded in Abbas¡¯s huddled men as three serpentine dark clouds buzzed near them. While the snake-like fogs did little than apparated everywhere, their effects were clear as the men were nothing more than a hysterical mob. More bloods were spilled which those fogs greedily lap up. ¡°Brothers! Retain a calm heart!¡± Farhan shouted with dignity of a lion. At this point the enemy won¡¯t have to do anything than sit back and watch their infighting! Salaman lashed his whip near one of their feet, almost vapourising the tricky being. He too, sensed something was horribly wrong! ¡°Brothers! Stop attacking each other! The shaitan minions are drinking your blood! Stop!¡± ¡°Ahhhh!!!¡± Unfortunately for the scholarly man, his thunderous reminder had the opposite effect! The four men of labour scampered in all directions in attempt to avoid those sinister snake-like clouds. Farhan furrowed his brows and noticed his earlier mudras had weakened. ¡°Oh no! It¡¯s night time!¡± He tried to chant and form new mudras but was continuously interrupted by his opponents. ¡°Hehehe! I won¡¯t let you, foreign dao! Give me your soul!!!!¡± With the change of day to night, the evil fog had strangely become stronger! It conjured a three-zhang long projection of bleeding claws and slapped it to the mortals. The claws split into five identical copies and sped in a blink of an eye to their targets. Four of them easily sliced the men of labour while the fifth one grinded against floating characters drew by Farhan in haste. The evil fog ignored the fat merchant and scholarly man as it felt Farhan was more dangerous. It was as what he feared; Farhan saw how those claws first slain the retreating men and then sucked blood out of their bodies until nothing was left! He stomped the ground and prepared to stake it all against them. If those bloody claws managed to fly back to the evil fog, he would be checkmated here! The middle-aged man had long recalled his flying daggers and now bringing them out with his hands after dispelling his energy blade. At first the evil fog was puzzled but it remained on guard as looking down on foreign dao was unwise. It ceased its attacks as it waited on what Farhan planned to do now. As for precautions, it ordered only a single snake-like fog minion to keep Abbas and Salaman occupied while withdrawing the rest into its ghastly being. Elation rose from its greenish eyes as the bloody claws were mere half a zhang from its position. Farhan suddenly let loose a long growl in response. ROAR! He grabbed the first dagger and the next two smashed together on its tip and hilt respectively, creating a furious lion roar that even shocked the evil fog. His daggers morphed into a bronze-glowing spear of intricate design that for the first time sent the big fog staggered few steps backwards. That spear was bad news! Farhan was paler than before, yet he tightened his grip on his new weapon and left after-images in his wake. He materialized point blank between the eyes of the evil fog and thrusted his spear with all of his might. The black fog and big sand dunes behind it were immediately split apart in tens of zhangs! Ghastly wails filled the area as the split dark fog tried to mend itself. Farhan twisted his spear in place and caused eruption of energy which literally vitrified the sand grains below into glass. The middle-aged man withdrew with a flicker, killed the last snake-like fog near his friends and coughed buckets of blood next. His secret move almost costed his life! ¡°Is¡­it, over, Brother Farhan?¡± All these while Salaman and Abbas were dumbstruck of what had transpired. It was over faster than it took to brew a pot of coffee. Salaman thought he was in a dream. Never he would think that Farhan would be similar to immortal cultivator of the legends! ¡°Brother! Let me lend you a shoulder!¡± ¡°Urgh¡­I hope so¡­Brother.¡± The middle-aged man coughed up more blood while his glorious spear had turned to dust. He accepted Salaman¡¯s help without reservations. ¡°We best move out of this place¡­Brother. I fear that¡­¡± ¡°Argh! Foreign dao! fOrEiGn dAo!!!¡± A sharp shriek momentarily dazed the three mortals. It turned out that the evil thing was still alive! ¡°You have no friends to help you now! DIE, FOREIGN DAO!¡± A dark reddish cloud appeared and instantly agglomerated into a vague humanoid that stood two heads taller than Farhan. It had three heads with vicious fangs and six arms equipped with glistening crimson blades. The evil fog was truly furious beyond compare and forcibly burnt its core essence to exact revenge! Salaman exclaimed in panic. ¡°No! It¡¯s a third circle Shaitan!¡± ¡°What-what-what should we do now, Brothers???!!!¡± Abbas was peeing in his pants. The evil visage was too much for him to bear. Much to their confusion, the sinister entity abruptly stopped. It wasn¡¯t looking at the trio but instead somewhere farther. Naturally, Farhan and his friends followed its gaze. What they saw were corpses of camels that were killed by the heat of battle. There was nothing else noteworthy so what was it? The six-armed entity contracted its three pairs of crimson eyes to their utmost limit. Something out there was giving it an existential dread. It recalled the first foreign dao being that stared at it. That being was alien, incomprehensible and not of this world. An abhorrent existence, worse than what it knew! It completely left Farhan and co alone and sprinted forward with all of its bloodlust. Even though its killing intent wasn¡¯t directed to them, the trio were petrified on the spot. More questions played in their minds as this day was strange enough. The crimson entity roared and slashed its blades for thousands of times! Blade lights fluttered from its weapons, drowning the targeted spot in inescapable tidal of red. The entity wasn¡¯t done; its six crimson blades disappeared and black lances took their place. It then muttered cryptic chants, causing the lances to turn into water tank-thick beams of dark light that instantly converged on target. Honglong! After the dust had cleared, only a large crater measuring several lis wide remained. Farhan was spooked as clearly the evil being was holding back in their previous battle! But what triggered it to attack with domineeringness? As he mulled over it, he saw a silver silhouette half his height was standing behind the crimson entity. With flash of silver, the crimson entity soundlessly disintegrated into dust that flowed with the desert winds. C23 - Circumstances Abject terror was reflected in the eyes of Farhan, Salaman and Abbas. Speak of the devil and lo! The silver devil had shown itself! Farhan lost his will to fight. Salaman cursed his glib tongue. Abbas didn¡¯t dare to lift his head. They felt their heads were already rolling. It was just that they didn¡¯t feel it yet! Silence reigned in the night sky as neither party evoked any movements. The silver silhouette stood still in the same spot, seemingly appraising them. The silhouette was Ava that had intervened at the last moment. Her projection disintegrated into light specks next as she ran out of quanta to sustain it. She had reverted into her snake avatar form yet these mortals were still unmoving. She spoke directly into their minds. ¡°I won¡¯t kill you. You still have some use to me.¡± The first to answer was Farhan. He cupped his hands as if he was asking for alms. ¡°Great Being. Kuhk! Grant me¡­a painless death.¡± ¡°No Brother!¡± Salaman interrupted, followed by Abbas in an alarmist tone. ¡°Brother Farhan, what are you saying?!¡± ¡°I¡¯m¡­sorry Brothers.¡± The middle-aged man coughed up more blood. ¡°I can no longer live¡­.¡± ¡°No. You shall live. You are still useful.¡± Ava denied his words. She flashed to his side and spat multiple silvery tendrils to cover the bearded man. Her words fell into deaf ears as Farhan saw his life flashed over his eyes. He was prepared to enter the cycle of reincarnation but truth was stranger than fiction! ¡°Uh¡­why am I still alive?¡± ¡°Yes¡­yes you¡¯re Brother¡­¡± Salaman said with disbelief. He saw how the unassuming snake appeared next to Farhan and wrapped him up in silvery cocoon. His good friend then emerged unscathed, without the slightest bruise visible! The scholarly man quickly went down on all fours. ¡°Oh, Great Being! Thank you for saving my friend! I wish to pay it with my life!¡± ¡°No, take my life!¡± The fat merchant counter-offered but after some mulling, he added more. ¡°My wealth, my everything!¡± Ava was amused at their reactions. Why would she take their lives if she wanted to use them? Seeing they were still fervently speaking nonsense; she sent a neural blast to them. ¡°Shut up. Follow orders.¡± ¡°Yes, yes¡­Great Being.¡± All three simultaneously replied. When they eventually saw her current snake avatar, they held some doubts. They kept such thoughts in their minds as they didn¡¯t want to offend this enigmatic entity. Ava turned her avatar to face Farhan and spoke to his mind. ¡°Are you an immortal cultivator?¡± ¡°Great Being, I¡¯m not an immortal cultivator.¡± The middle-aged man replied. He already shed doubts about Ava¡¯s form as he had seen his share of eccentrics. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if Great Being heard of it but I¡¯m what they call as Dias. Dias discipliner. I¡¯m but a mortal.¡± ¡°But Brother, you fought just like immortals from the legends!¡± Salaman interjected as he found it hard to believe. He exclaimed, ¡°What mortal can fight against a transformed shaitan?!¡± Abbas also wanted to speak out his mind but after seeing Ava¡¯s stare, he backed down. The Post Human queried again. ¡°Explain.¡± ¡°As you commanded, Great Being.¡± Farhan was lethargic yet he forced himself to speak. She did save his life and thus he ignored his condition, not wanting to slight her. ¡°Our history¡¯s new; Dias was founded by Caesar Icipio The Great a few hundred years ago.¡± His spirit was roused as he continued his explanation. ¡°Immortal cultivators and shaitans saw us nothing less than fodder. Caesar gave us the means to fight them and¡­. claim our rights.¡± ¡°Then, how are you different than immortals and devils?¡± Ava sent another mind transmission to Farhan. There was a slight delay before she asked again. ¡°You are different than your friends. You are not a mortal. You can fight. They can¡¯t.¡± ¡°Great Being, please don¡¯t take offense.¡± Farhan saw her misunderstanding and tried his best to clarify the matter. ¡°Even with great powers gained with Dias, we, are, still mortals. We don¡¯t live for thousands of years. We live and die like common mortals.¡± Ava pondered for a bit and shot another question. She found it suspicious. ¡°Then, your discipline consumes your life?¡± ¡°Great Being, you¡¯re correct. Dias is no miracle as it too, has its price.¡± Farhan frowned. ¡°It¡¯s not only lifespan. Our health and fortune are consumed as well.¡± ¡°Brother, you did fight against that crimson shaitan. Neither of us can.¡± Salaman said on the side in order to comfort the bearded man. The fat merchant Abbas also offered his words of support. ¡°Brother Salaman is right. You¡¯re a hero, Brother! Heroes usually burns the brightest, giving the greatest light to save us mortals!¡± ¡°Brothers, you think too highly of me.¡± Farhan was a little speechless at their sudden appeasement. He didn¡¯t know if they were sincere or not! He replied after a sigh. ¡°A hero can be a tyrant!¡± Ava felt his answer was strange. She queried again ¡°Why can¡¯t you solve such problem? Your founder cannot find a solution to such issue?¡± ¡°I¡¯m embarrassed, Great Being. I don¡¯t know.¡± Farhan was sitting on the ground as he was still weak on his legs. He presented his own logic to Ava. ¡°A Dias discipliner don¡¯t rely on the world like immortals or shaitans do.¡± The middle-aged man glanced at the lion emblem on his left hand. ¡°We only learn the world¡¯s truths and use them. As mortals have little to begin with, Dias discipline takes what¡¯s left. Everything.¡± ¡°Why are you following this path?¡± The Post Human gave him a curious glance. She stared at both Salaman and Abbas next. They tactfully knew she didn¡¯t want to hear their yapping. Both men were wordless as they listened to Farhan. Farhan gazed to the far distance with a heavy sigh. ¡°Great Being, I became a Dias discipliner because I lack power.¡± The middle-aged man recalled some painful memories. ¡°My town was ravaged by vicious beasts yet no one helped us.¡± His tone at the end was slightly vengeful. ¡°If those lofty immortals won¡¯t help us, then I¡¯ll do it myself. I¡¯ll show them.¡± ¡°You saw an immortal?¡± Ava¡¯s interest was piqued. She added another question. ¡°Why are you here?¡± ¡°Yes, I saw an immortal once, Great Being.¡± Farhan explained with cold tone. ¡°The immortal said he was tasked to protect us but when the beast wave came, he ran away, leaving all of us to die.¡± On her second question, he was hesitant to answer. ¡°On why I¡¯m here¡­err¡­it¡¯s by chance, Great Being. I was part of auxilia sent by Agrippa Imperium to aid in Najmad Jihad.¡± ¡°Brother¡­then you?¡± Salaman cannot help than to speak up albeit softly. Farhan wore a pensive expression. ¡°I hope you keep it secret, Brothers. You know...¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry Brother. We mortals live once anyway. We understand.¡± Abbas conveyed some comforting words. Ava continued with her questions. ¡°Why did you run? What is the purpose of the Jihad?¡± ¡°Err¡­on why I ran away¡­ I¡¯m not sure about the specifics but two thirds in campaign, my cohort¡¯s preceptor said I should leave and never look back.¡± After some internal struggle, Farhan disclosed it. ¡°As for purpose, the Jihad was going to Nalduk since our legate preceptors divined there was traces of Infernus there. So, we were tasked to aid local powers such as Khanassat Sultanate to investigate it.¡± ¡°An Infernus?¡± Salaman was deeply surprised. Farhan had a wry smile. He explained a little more lest Ava took offense of his friends¡¯ constant interruptions. ¡°Yes, Infernus from myths.¡± The middle-aged man furrowed his brows. ¡°Whenever one appears, blood and carnage follow. For centuries or eons until it retreats or banished.¡±Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°What is this being? Why do it show up?¡± The Post-Human was bewildered at his answer. She never heard of ¡®Infernus¡¯ even after parsing the memories she acquired from her desert adventure before entering Kazar. ¡°Great Being, Infernus is great shaitan, more powerful than crimson shaitan before.¡± Farhan said with hint of fear. ¡°It can summon tangible nightmares and turn thousand leugas of lands into living hell. As why it appears, I don¡¯t know. Maybe it wanted mortals to fuel its dark arts.¡± Ava stopped asking additional questions as she pieced new information. She gazed at Farhan once more and became intrigued. He can fight as an immortal yet not one? Interesting! If she could solve their debilitating lifespan flaw, then she can theoretically gain powerful mortal helpers for her cause. On the other hand, she could always rely on her technological might and create her own army. But she didn¡¯t have either time or quanta for the task. She vaguely sensed some higher beings in this world were upon her. Perhaps investigating the so-called Dias would alleviate her current predicaments. Ava was also curious about ¡®Infernus¡¯. Did this being somehow interfered with her connection to this world? She wasn¡¯t in the position to determine such and thus she classified the evil being as one of biggest hurdles in her grand plans. Whatever this being was, she needed to confront it sooner or later. The three mortals shut their mouths as Ava gave them a long silence. They presumed this snake eccentric was mulling over some vital matters. They breathed in relief as Ava wasn¡¯t interested to kill them. As Ava said she still have some use for them, the trio was hopeful that was indeed the case! The Post Human reviewed her objectives; she needed to rescue Husan and see if the organization behind ¡®Count¡¯ can be used to her goals. There was also the matter of visiting Sulaymun Formations. Researching Dias could be an ongoing objective while investigating Infernus was put as lowest priority. Ava was certain that evil being wouldn¡¯t as much bat an eye to her as whoever sponsoring the Jihad will be sending reinforcements to stop it. Whether they succeed or not wasn¡¯t her concern as she had other plans in mind. While she was mulling her options, she shot a strand of silvery energy upwards. Crack! Her eyes flashed with a cold glint, sending tremors to the three mortals. Somewhere in the skies, something broke akin to fragmenting chinaware. Whoever that was, she had destroyed them with her [Disintegration] ability. That other party was belittling her, thinking she wouldn¡¯t detect their prying! ¡°Great Being, what was that?¡± Farhan asked as Salaman offered his shoulder to support the bearded man. Ava glanced left and right before replying in a mind transmission. ¡°An unwanted guest. We leave now.¡± ¡°Is-is-is it another shaitan?!!¡± The fat merchant was scared yet again. He quickly took the lead. The Post Human found his behaviour perplexing. Abbas was groveling on the ground not a moment ago and look, he was swift as a horse now! She gave a directed response to him. ¡°Do not worry about much matters. We go to Najaj first.¡± ¡°Err¡­Great Being.¡± The scholarly man was a bit unsure as he talked. ¡°Our caravan was decimated. Wouldn¡¯t it be strange if¡­we entered Najaj like this?¡± Abbas stopped and had an awkward smile. ¡°Yes¡­yes, yes. We wouldn¡¯t want to rouse suspicion¡­Great Being. Especially when Kazar Sheikh is going all out this time.¡± ¡°Say that you encountered a pack of Red Scorpions.¡± Ava answered after some pause. She continued, ¡°All of your men helped you escape and the rest is forfeit.¡± ¡°That makes¡­sense¡­but about err¡­¡± Abbas was tiptoeing his sandy shoes. ¡°Your wares? Not an issue.¡± Ava waved her snake avatar¡¯s tail and several items fell out. They were some of Abbas¡¯s silk merchandises that she managed to store before the crimson shaitan attacked her. She waved again and several blocky stuffs fell on the sandy terrain. ¡°Farhan. Eat. Recover.¡± ¡°Thank you, Great Being. I will forever serve you.¡± Farhan was humbled by her treatment. Of all eccentrics he met before, she was one of the few that was helpful. Upon reminiscing that, he asked her a question. ¡°What should¡­I call you, Great Being?¡± ¡°Nour.¡± Ava told all three mortals after some contemplation. Seeing her previous persona supposedly ¡®died¡¯ in Alkharm Wadi, she decided to adopt an entirely new identity. ¡°What a good name, Great Being. Your brilliance will surely shine light upon us mortals.¡± Salaman praised the name from his heart. What he saw insofar convinced him that one day, this being will bring them equal footing to other great beings. Higher than the supposedly Dias discipline! Abbas was the converse; he quickly gave his best flatteries as inherent to merchants like him. ¡°I agree, Brother! Truly a name that will resound throughout the ages! I¡¯ll change my business name to Nour¡¯s Stores, to honour Great Being!¡± However, his soiled pants didn¡¯t inspire much confidence as both Farhan and Salaman chuckled at his haggard appearance. ¡°Err¡­sorry, I¡¯ll go change now¡­wait. I don¡¯t have any spare pants!¡± ¡°Are you fine with silk pants?¡± The Post Human sent a mental transmission to Abbas. Abbas was confused at first but then inadvertently raised his eyebrows at her suggestion. ¡°Great Being, err¡­my silk merchandises are just roll of silks. What do you mean, Great Being?¡± ¡°Master Nour is fine, merchant. No need Great Being that, Great Being this.¡± Even though Ava¡¯s snake avatar cannot emulate human expression, Abbas felt she was somewhat dismayed. The Post Human ignored his awkward smile and tapped on the ground. A roll of silk appeared and with another tap from her, it transformed into a pants made of silk. ¡°Wear this, merchant.¡± ¡°Uhh¡­¡± Abbas and others were speechless at the spectacle. They completely overlooked the gaudiness of said pants. The fact that it was created in fraction of a second gave them another surprise and fright! Even though they had different perspectives, all three had similar thoughts that Ava was a novel great being, loftier than others mentioned in texts and myths! The Post Human sent another neural blast. ¡°Stop getting surprised every little thing. We must go to Najaj, now.¡± ¡°I¡¯m¡­I¡¯m sorry, Master Nour.¡± Farhan said first. He had seen strange things before but what Ava did catches him off-guard regardless. The implications¡­were immense. He gestured to Salaman that he can walk alone. The middle-aged man then crouched on the ground, appraising the stuffs given by Ava. ¡°Master Nour¡­am I supposed to eat this?¡± ¡°Yes. It is sugar and protein. Eat it.¡± Ava spoke to his mind with little care. For once, she felt Azure Centipedes were better minions as they didn¡¯t ask as much as these mortals. Salaman that was standing to his side also picked one of them. It was a square matte-brown block with nondescript features. ¡°Can¡­can I eat it too, Master?¡± ¡°Do as you want.¡± Ava gave him a short reply. Now she wasn¡¯t sure whether it was a good idea to save these blabbering mortals. However, considering the big picture, she tolerated them. The fat merchant had finished changing over the side of another sand dune. His eyes were glittering at some prospect. Prospect of making money! ¡°Master Nour¡­these pants are amazing! I heard of them before and they usually take months to make. But Master Nour¡­did it under a second!¡± Under illumination of moonlight, Ava¡¯s snake avatar scales were glistening, giving her an enigmatic look. Her answer was short as always. ¡°A small task, merchant.¡± ¡°Thank you for the food, Master Nour.¡± Farhan was glancing at the rest of the strange-looking rations after eating one. There were a few left but he didn¡¯t dare eat them as he perceived she wanted to move out at this moment. The scholarly man, Salaman on other hand was clutching two of such items. ¡°Master Nour, err¡­¡± ¡°You can keep them.¡± Ava replied. Obviously, she knew what he was thinking. ¡°It is a small matter.¡± ¡°Master Nour, what should I, err¡­. say about our Sand Komodos?¡± Abbas asked. There was some reluctance in his voice as he feared his question will make Ava even more annoyed. A brief silence passed. Ava answered after some little thought. ¡°They ran away, luring the Red Scorpions. Allowed you three to escape.¡± ¡°Hmm, makes sense.¡± Abbas nodded at her suggestion. He called the attention of his companions, ¡°So Brothers, we need to make this story right; we were ambushed by pack of Red Scorpions. Our men fought to shake them off but there were simply too many of those vicious beasts. Our camels were used as baits but more Red Scorpions emerged. Then our Sand Komodos sacrificed themselves for us three to escape. What do you think, Brothers?¡± ¡°How would we explain about¡­Master Nour?¡± Farhan queried. Ava played no small part in saving all three and he didn¡¯t want to diminish her contribution. The Post Human glanced at his direction. ¡°No need to mention it. Your story will do, merchant.¡± ¡°But¡­I found it hard to believe. There¡¯s no Red Scorpions in this area, Brother.¡± Salaman was skeptical. He was right as those vicious beasts don¡¯t usually live in this part of the land. Abbas gave the scholarly man a dry chuckle. ¡°We didn¡¯t expect to run into¡­that crimson shaitan either. Anyway, if the matters about Infernus was true, it wouldn¡¯t be strange for the vicious beasts to move, right? Escaping to unusual places etcetera.¡± ¡°What Brother Abbas said is correct.¡± Farhan chimed in. He was mentally exhausted and would appreciate civilization than endless lis of sands. ¡°So, Brothers. Let¡¯s go to Najaj. We can¡¯t let Master Nour wait too long.¡± The middle-aged man turned his head at Ava. ¡°What should we tell when others ask about you, Master?¡± ¡°In Kazar, they use Kazarian Sand Rats as guides. So, I can be your guide, in name.¡± Ava had anticipated his question and gave all three of them a plausible-sounding answer. ¡°Okay, Master.¡± All three mortals agreed and gave her a slight bow. The Post Human slithered to Farhan and coiled on his right shoulder. She was interested to monitor his condition thus her pick. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go to Najaj.¡± Abbas took out a rudimentary compass and pointed at a direction. The trio thus walked toward the pointed route. With little else to do, the three men became lively with small chatters between themselves. Ava was silent, not wanting to involve herself and simply listened to their banters. C24 - Talk Shrak! Putong! Beads of sweat rolled off Abbas¡¯s trembling hands as he withdrew his red glowing scimitar. His quarry had finally exhausted its last breath upon being stabbed by him. The fat man felt his heart could¡¯ve leaped out of his chest any time now. For once, he wanted to do nothing than choke that Salaman! Farhan¡¯s voice from the side brought him back to reality. ¡°Good work, Brother Abbas.¡± ¡°Blergh.¡± Abbas puked on the sandy ground. He was certainly no fighter. He simply stabbed the poor creature¡¯s head after being told by Ava. Noxious green blood leaking from said head only hastened emptying of his stomach. ¡°Blargh! Kuhk, kuhk!¡± ¡°Brother, are you done there?¡± asked Salaman as he stowed away his red whip. The scholarly man caught sight of Abbas and produced a small leathery pouch. ¡°Take this medicine, Brother Abbas.¡± ¡°Urgh. Thanks, brother.¡± Abbas didn¡¯t stand on ceremony and immediately swallowed it. The taste was bitter but effective. The fat merchant wiped his mouth and gave Salaman a glare. ¡°Brother Salaman. Why¡¯d you jinx us?¡± ¡°¡­.¡± Salaman was speechless at his accusation. He raised his eyebrows in response. ¡°What do you mean, Brother Abbas?¡± ¡°Haha, Brother Abbas was saying, you called these beasts here, somehow, Brother!¡± Farhan chuckled as he got down to business. ¡°Come, Brother Salaman. Help me put away our haul.¡± ¡°¡­.¡± The scholarly man gave the fat merchant a blank stare. A glance from Farhan reminded Salaman of his pending task. ¡°Surely you jest, Brother Abbas. If I can do that, wouldn¡¯t be dealing with crimson shaitan easier? Besides, didn''t you said it yourself first?¡± He rolled up the sleeves of his desert robes and brought out a medium-sized bag. ¡°Okay Brother Farhan. I¡¯ll put them in this bag.¡± ¡°Brother Abbas, help him. Brother Salaman, move your hands, not your mouth.¡± Farhan instructed them. They weren¡¯t really listening. He shook his head before looking at Ava. ¡°Master Nour, how many more of these should we collect?¡± ¡°That should be the last one.¡± Ava said to his mind. She was perched on random rock outcrop, viewing their work. A few seconds later, she glanced around. ¡°There are no more enemies in this area. Good work.¡± ¡°Thank you for the praise, Master.¡± Farhan nodded in approval. The middle-aged man flexed his arm a little bit. It was still sore. ¡°So¡­is Master trying to make poison out of them?¡± ¡°Correct.¡± Ava confirmed and then slithered her snake avatar to the crouching Salaman and Abbas. ¡°Poison? Hmm¡­¡± Salaman said. He added more words next. ¡°Does Master Nour intend to use them as a weapon or¡­. a cure?¡± ¡°A cure?¡± Abbas interrupted. He didn¡¯t believe his scholarly friend. ¡°How can poison be cure?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not surprised that you don¡¯t know, Brother Abbas.¡± At this point, Salaman had finished his given task. He stood up. ¡°Red Scorpions¡¯ poisons, when processed correctly, can make medicines, such as painkillers. Although, not everyone can or is willing to make some.¡± ¡°Painkillers?¡± The fat merchant was still unconvinced. How could poison that can dissolve rocks be turned into medicines? He also got up from his crouching position. ¡°What kind of pain will require them?¡± ¡°Brother Abbas, Brother Salaman.¡± Farhan interjected in their conversation. ¡°From what I know, such poisons have another utility. Making items.¡± ¡°You mean, to clean and stuff?¡± Salaman considered the possibilities. He said with self-depreciating tone. ¡°I see, I see! Why did I forget about it?¡± ¡°Bring them to me.¡± Ava spoke directly in their minds, pouring cold water on their ongoing talk. She added, ¡°Yes. Poison, when purified, can be used for many things.¡± She decided after much contemplation. Giving these mortals another tool wouldn¡¯t be wise. She clarified her intentions. ¡°It can be used as feedstock. To fight, cure and make stuff.¡± ¡°So¡­this poison is actually valuable?¡± Abbas¡¯s eyes were elated. His nose twitched. He smelt money! ¡°Then, why didn¡¯t I hear about it? We can get a tidy sum!¡± He gave the Red Scorpions¡¯ corpses a glance. Fighting those took his all! Ava explained to him. ¡°Because no one really asked. Asked why Red Scorpions¡¯ stingers are collected.¡± She moved her snake avatar next to Salaman as she continued to speak to Abbas. ¡°Wanderers do not need to know. They need to know if they can get paid.¡± ¡°Is it like that, Master Nour?¡± Abbas replied. He held his chin with his right hand. ¡°That Wanderers collect them just for money?¡± The fat merchant asked one more question. ¡°But Wanderers are all shapes and sizes. Surely some of them knew what it is used for?¡± Ava remembered Hakeem when he mentioned it but that pharmacist didn¡¯t seem to venture out of his place in Kazar. She answered the fat merchant¡¯s query. ¡°People that knew are highly valued. They would stay in one place and let others collect the materials for them. Easier.¡± ¡°I see!¡± Abbas scratched his chin in response. He wasn¡¯t that familiar about the inner workings of Wanderer Association. The fat merchant asked again to validate his thoughts. ¡°Is that how some activities in Association came to be? Wanderers go out to look for such poisons and such. Then they return and gave their haul to crafters and similar?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, Brother.¡± Salaman answered for Ava. She simply nodded at his reply and thus, the scholarly man spoke more. ¡°We mortals have one life. So, we specialize and left the difficult parts to experts.¡± ¡°Oh, thanks Brother! Now I understand!¡± Abbas said with approval. He continued, ¡°No wonder those Wanderers sometimes carry strange things. I thought they¡¯re just being odd.¡± ¡°Master, are they enough for you?¡± Farhan asked her as he saw Ava was seemingly appraising the bags offered by the scholarly man. Ava paused for a moment before replying. ¡°Enough. If it is too much, then people will start to ask all kinds of things.¡± ¡°You¡¯re right, Master Nour.¡± The middle-aged man agreed with her. He then shifted his gaze to the rest of the corpses. ¡°What should we do with them? Their shells are still valuable, Master.¡± Ava tapped her snake avatar¡¯s tail on the bulging bags given by Salaman and they turned flat in fraction of a second. ¡°I will take care of them.¡± She proceeded to wave her snake avatar¡¯s tail and the corpses vanished from sight. ¡°Uh¡­okay. That¡¯s¡­.one way to do it.¡± Farhan rubbed his eyes for several times. This snake eccentric is really mysterious. A sudden thought surfaced in his mind as he opened the flat bags. There were several vials in them. ¡°I guess Master wanted us to sell these in Najaj?¡±Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. ¡°Yes. Store them carefully, Farhan.¡± She gave her confirmation to the bearded man. The Post Human stared at Abbas next as she brewed a new plan in her mind. ¡°Merchant, they should cover your losses. Just silk would not do.¡± ¡°Oh Master. I¡¯m grateful that I¡¯m still alive!¡± Abbas¡¯s brows jumped at her statement. He shook his head left and right. ¡°Just that is enough for this humble one!¡± ¡°Merchant. I have plans for you. You will be my helper in Najaj.¡± Ava said to him. She remarked with a flat tone to his mind. ¡°You did say you wanted to change your store name.¡± ¡°Ehh¡­that¡¯s¡­uh¡­so, Master¡­. you mean I, myself, should sell¡­them?¡± The fat merchant somehow, managed to twist his tongue. He dealt with silks, not stuff that can dissolve his hands! In response of that, Salaman patted Abbas¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Brother, why not just do it? Master Nour didn¡¯t only tell us how to fight those vicious scorpions, he also allowed us to take the profits.¡± ¡°Master Nour is wise.¡± Farhan expressed his support while looking at the purplish vials. He propped his chin in deep thought after storing the conical items in the bags away in his pouch. ¡°Making some friends with crafters and alchemists are always good, Brother Abbas.¡± ¡°Correct.¡± Ava agreed with Farhan. She then gazed to the far distance. ¡°If what you three said are true, then the badlands are heavily guarded. The poisons will be our ticket to enter Najaj. Alchemists there, that are trying to fulfill new orders will vouch for us.¡± ¡°Hmm, hmm.¡± Salaman didn¡¯t find any flaws in her logic. He affirmed her statement. ¡°So, with those poison vials, if there are any Kazar¡¯s Sheikh men around, they would be thankful instead of restraining us.¡± ¡°Great idea. Then how about, we look for more of them, Master Nour?¡± Abbas¡¯s senses were tingling. He can taste it now, the taste of money! However, he gave some word of caution. ¡°But¡­didn¡¯t we agree that our caravan was ambushed? Wouldn¡¯t they ask us where we got those poison vials?¡± ¡°Well, Brother Abbas. We could just say we¡¯re running an errand from Sujk?¡± Farhan tried to offer an explanation. Salaman mulled a little bit and then added to the middle-aged man¡¯s statement. ¡°It could still work, Brother Abbas. Usually if it was an urgent consignment from Wanderer Association, the vials are rarely secured properly. Red Scorpions are vengeful beings and will pursue traces of their kin. So, we can say that, due to such, they ambushed us.¡± ¡°It still didn¡¯t make sense.¡± Abbas shook his head. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t such stuffs be sealed proper? I mean, I don¡¯t want my face to fall off by mistake!¡± ¡°It is how it is in the Association. Sometimes, they post such urgent missions with great rewards on purpose.¡± Ava chimed in, to clear up the merchant¡¯s confusion. ¡°Then, no one complained about it, Master Nour? Wouldn¡¯t that condemn the Wanderers that took such consignment missions to their graves?¡± Abbas protested at the realization. Salaman sighed as he stated his perspective on the subject. ¡°That¡¯s how it works, Brother Abbas. There are always desperate Wanderers willing to do these kinds of things. We do live in a harsh world.¡± ¡°Uhh. It¡¯s not a chance of making money but a trap! How terrible!¡± Abbas shuddered at their explanations. He viewed the matter in a different light, a negative one. He asked again. ¡°If it¡¯s dangerous to us mortals, then why wouldn¡¯t immortals do such tasks? They¡¯re infinitely strong!¡± ¡°Immortals? Hah! As if those arrogant bastards cared for such things!¡± Farhan rebuked the fat merchant¡¯s words. The middle-aged man was clearly unhappy whenever immortals were mentioned. ¡°They force mortals to do such work instead!¡± Ava slithered her snake avatar forward and put an end to the matter. ¡°We should move before the sun reaches high noon. Let¡¯s depart.¡± ¡°Yes master.¡± All three replied to her command albeit with varying expressions. Farhan was solemn. Abbas was still thinking about the matter. Salaman just shrugged it off. The group mood was considerably soured but Ava paid no heed. Getting to Najaj was her top priority; they encountered vicious beasts in uncomfortable frequency. Something did go wrong and such beasts were scattered everywhere now. Najaj should have some guards which could thin such creatures. She moved her snake avatar back to Farhan and reprimanded him in a mental connection, urging him to see the bigger picture. The middle-aged man eventually quashed his anger and followed her instructions. Crying over spilt milk wouldn¡¯t do any good as they should focus on how to survive now. The scholarly man sighed at the awkwardness of the situation. He began to make some light talks with both of them in order to ease tensions. Farhan eventually conceded and conversed albeit rarely. Conversely, the fat merchant was animated as he asked Salaman of his experience and knowledge. A few talks go a long way as they didn¡¯t feel the passage of time. Moments later, a leather armoured man riding on top of a Sand Komodo appeared and stopped the group. ¡°Halt! State your business!¡± Abbas stepped forward and talked to the scrawny man. ¡°Well met, Sir! We¡¯re but merchants, wishing to enter Najaj.¡± ¡°Are there only three of you?¡± The armoured man gave them a cold glance while swaying his spear around as intimidation. His skepticism was plain bare to see. ¡°Najaj¡¯s closed!¡± ¡°Sir, please reconsider.¡± This time Salaman backed Abbas. He handed the spear-wielding man a small golden vial from his desert robes. The man hesitated a little but took it regardless. He gave it a whiff and then his expression was softened. ¡°Hm, so you¡¯re merchants after all!¡± He retracted his spear to the side and pointed it to the horizon. ¡°Najaj¡¯s dangerous at the moment. I advise you guys to turn back.¡± ¡°Great Sir, can you explain to us? We¡¯re sorry for being ignorant.¡± Abbas persuaded the man by giving him a palm-sized box. The Sand Komodo-riding man opened it and saw an exquisite piece of embroidered silk cloth in it. He carefully stowed it away and spoke more politely to the group. ¡°I¡¯m stopping you merchants here for your own good. Didn¡¯t you encounter some vicious beings in your travels? Near Najaj, there are even more! I advise you to come back to whence you came!¡± ¡°Great Sir, you¡¯re right.¡± Abbas had a deferred tone and lowered his head at the man. He chuckled in a self-depreciating manner. ¡°Truth to be told, my entire caravan was almost destroyed! So, after traveling this far, we only want to seek refuge in Najaj.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­.¡± The armoured man paused as he weighted his options. These merchants seemed like they were telling the truth; apart from Abbas¡¯s gaudy pants, his group was destitute, chalked with dirt and dust. He queried more about their situation. ¡°Where are you lot from? Kazar? Talruk?¡± ¡°From Sujk, Great Sir. Out of nine men with me, I only have these two brothers left!¡± The fat merchant let out some crocodile tears. He wished that this skeptical man would buy his story. The man gave them another look and thought to ask them for more benefits at the moment. He refused that thought as making them indebted to him would be far useful. He presumed Salaman was Abbas''s aid. But Farhan? He shifted his attention to the bearded man. ¡°What are you to his caravan?¡± ¡°Oh, Great Sir, I¡¯m just one of his bodyguards.¡± Farhan swallowed his pride as he answered. He was still fatigued from his previous fights against vicious creatures. The middle-aged man gave out a wry smile. ¡°Out of many, I managed to survive by fluke and escorted my employer out!¡± The spear-wielding man scrutinized Farhan¡¯s mannerism and was satisfied with his answer. ¡°Is that so? Then it was hard for you, Brother. I admire your bravery!¡± ¡°You praise me too much, Great Sir.¡± Farhan didn¡¯t accept his evaluation. At the moment, he determined that it was better to bend rather than stand straight; circumstances dictated adeptness! The armoured man wasn¡¯t offended by Farhan¡¯s words and instead appreciated the bearded man¡¯s tactfulness. A moment later, he caught sight of Ava¡¯s snake avatar. ¡°So, you¡¯re a snake charmer, Brother? I see, that¡¯s how you led your master to safety!¡± ¡°Just a part of my meagre abilities, Great Sir.¡± Farhan nodded. Ava played her part by emulating what could¡¯ve been expected out of a tamed beast. The Sand Komodo rider finally introduced himself to them after seeing they can be trusted. ¡°I¡¯m Maheer, part of Najaj Komodo Desert Riders. How about I escort you merchants to town?¡± ¡°I would appreciate it, Great Sir. Please lead the way!¡± Abbas knew this man will seek more compensation one way or another. He agreed to his offer anyway as having someone from Najaj¡¯s militia to escort them would make certain difficult things easier. Maheer grunted in reply. He patted his scaled beast and gestured the three men to follow his lead. The man was true to his name as he would be the first to rush out and dealt with any vicious beasts that impeded their path to Najaj town. Abbas and co felt they made a correct decision to appease him. C25 - Situation It was like what Maheer had said; of few lis left to Najaj, they encountered vicious beasts one after another! Leaping out of dragon¡¯s pool and only to enter a tiger¡¯s den! But how can one get a tiger cub without entering a tiger¡¯s den? The group basically fought their way out from the vicious creatures. Salaman lost his fire whip to a Red Scorpion that was trying to pull him. Abbas¡¯s fire scimitar snapped into half when a Crescent Shark jumped on him. Farhan was basically a bait as he was weaponless. Much to Maheer¡¯s surprise, Farhan fared better than his friends; he didn¡¯t as much suffer any injuries! The spear-wielding man felt Farhan must¡¯ve hid something from him, that the middle-aged man was actually a master in disguise. However, they weren¡¯t facing common beasts but ones that gained measure of intelligence. As stupid as they were, those vicious creatures knew threat of dao weapons. Ava simply viewed them with indifference, causing no end of inward curses from Salaman and Abbas. Farhan on other hand didn¡¯t complain as he knew eccentrics were truly bizarre. That painful lesson for walking in front of an eccentric was still fresh in his mind. He didn¡¯t want to take any chances now. Although the Post Human spared some token effort to seldom warn Abbas and his friends, she was actually monitoring the whole situation. Maheer was indeed not all talk as he can also walk the talk. His brilliance with his spear and his mount had carried the mortals out from many deadly situations. The man was wielding an ordinary if not sturdy weapon yet he managed to kill a few beasts all by himself. So, this was what differed from an expert and average joe. Give a man a fish, he may eat for today. Teach the man to fish, he will eat every day! The rest of Najaj¡¯s militia should be very capable. Help arrived in timely manner when a group of five men similarly equipped as Maheer had spotted his group. Their leader was a burly man clad in brown-red leather armour on a large Sand Komodo. His voice was as tough as nails. ¡°Maheer! Come here!¡± ¡°Yes, Captain!¡± Maheer whipped the leash on his Sand Komodo to spur his beast onward. He shouted at Abbas. ¡°Merchant, run! If we can get to my Captain, we¡¯ll be safe!¡± ¡°Great Sir! Wait for me!¡± The fat merchant was out of breath. There were two Red Scorpions hot on his heels! Farhan pushed himself and punched the vicious beast away from Abbas. Its shell was too strong! ¡°Quickly, Brothers!¡± ¡°Men! Target those two beasts! We can¡¯t let them eat our kin!¡± The brown-red leather-armoured man barked his orders. He himself urged his Sand Komodo to enter the fray! ¡°Help that grey-haired man!¡± ¡°Alalalalalalalalala!!!!!¡± His subordinates began their war cry as their fearlessly followed their leader to heat of battle! Pow, pow, pow! Multiple invisible slices of air collided with the Red Scorpion, sparing Farhan from its vicious mandibles. He took this chance to roll out and narrowly avoided a green blob of liquid shot from the beast¡¯s stinger. Farhan ran from side to side, hoping to shake off this enraged and oversized land invertebrate! Kutong! Salaman on the other hand threw a small metal case he had on his person, directly into waiting maws of second Red Scorpion. It chewed the case like paper but the creature suddenly trembled; what he threw was his spices! The scholarly man grimaced at losing those but being alive was more important! ¡°Hold tight, Brother!¡± One of the Sand Komodo riders extended his hands and grabbed Abbas away from danger. His companions rushed forward to also whisk away Salaman and Farhan from the vicious scorpions. Maheer regrouped with his leader and entered the battle once again. ¡°Captain Jasur! We should get them three to Najaj! Now!¡± ¡°Them?! Why did you bring them here?!¡± His Captain harshly yelled at him as the man dodged a poison shot from the Red Scorpion. ¡°You had one job, Maheer! One job!¡± ¡°Captain Jasur! We should get out of here first!¡± One of the Komodo riders shouted at them. There were even more Red Scorpions coming their way! Maheer¡¯s leader, Captain Jasur was decisive as his features. He quickly took the mantle of a rearguard. ¡°Get them to Najaj without me! I¡¯ll hold them off!¡± ¡°You heard him! Go now!¡± Another Jasur¡¯s subordinate yelled at others¡¯ indetermination. They were unwilling to leave their leader alone. At this critical juncture, Jasur swung his wind scimitar at the ground. ¡°Go! Either they kill you or I kill you myself!¡± The men immediately complied to his command and brought the rest of the group to the far distance. Farhan felt uneasy and thus asked his saviour. ¡°Rider! What about your leader?!¡± ¡°He¡¯ll survive, Brother! I believe in him!¡± The rider said with brimming confidence. No matter how Farhan looked at it, he didn¡¯t believe the rider, not at all. ¡°How? There were more than ten Red Scorpions!¡± Boom! Before the rider could reply, the answer revealed itself in form of spheres of flaming fire. It turned out that Jasur was hiding some powerful stuff in his armour! The man flung some kind of jars to the vicious beasts and they exploded into visceral gores. Exoskeleton chitin was no match for his round objects! ¡°Heavens! Fire Talismans!¡± Salaman recognized it and shouted in alarm. How come they can afford those expensive stuff? The scholarly man asked the Komodo rider in front of him. ¡°Why didn¡¯t Brothers bring them out sooner?¡± ¡°Brother, those aren¡¯t Fire Talismans but explosives!¡± The rider explained. Salaman was unconvinced. He tried to elaborate. ¡°What Najaj lack, we make do with bombs!¡± ¡°Bombs? How?¡± Salaman asked in return. The rider didn¡¯t answer him as he was busy commandeering his scaled steed. Farhan had a contemplative look. After a brief pause, the grey-haired man questioned Maheer. ¡°Sir Maheer! Is there a force from Agrippa Imperium at Najaj?¡± ¡°Indeed, Brother! They had come to our aid in these trying times!¡± Maheer replied without hesitation. There were some traces of admiration in his voice. ¡°Their tools had helped us to fight these foul creatures!¡± Farhan¡¯s face darkened for a split second. If it was true, wouldn¡¯t he be trialed for deserting? It would be a worst-case scenario! But he had ridden the tiger and cannot get off! The middle-aged man gave Ava a worried gaze. She got what he hinted at and thus she spoke to his mind that he shouldn¡¯t worry. The Post Human reevaluated her impression on the so-called Imperium. Perhaps stuffs used by Jasur was one reason out of many for mere mortal empire to survive and not vanquished by immortals? She was well informed on implications of explosives. The natives of this world weren¡¯t stupid after all! Boom, boom, boom! A cacophony of muffled explosions rang far in the back of escaping Komodo riders. Each man had alternating expressions from worry to joy. The might of Agrippan tools was fully manifested when they had left. Some wished they could see them in person but the men knew such tools were deadly. Deadly to the enemies and the user themselves! Jasur obviously wanted his men to stand clear and not caught in the ensuing explosions. The booms stopped as the five riders and their three passengers had finally seen an outline of a town up ahead, if it can be called as a town. The walls were battered.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Most of its buildings were ruined. Najaj¡¯s famous silk souks were nowhere to be seen, replaced by tents of various sizes and shapes. Abbas was speechless at the scene; what¡¯s the point of going here if all the traders had fled? It was like putting eggs in a basket, only to find out the eggs were broken! The Sand Komodo riders halted and one of them lurched forward. ¡°Brothers, wait here! I¡¯ll go inform our men for access!¡± ¡°Make it swift, Brother! I wish to aid Captain Jasur!¡± Maheer said with urgency. He saw previously that there were simply too many Red Scorpions swarming his leader. He wasn¡¯t confident his leader can handle it. ¡°Send word for a rescue team as well, Brother!¡± ¡°That wouldn¡¯t be necessary, Maheer!¡± A gruff voice sounded from the side. It was Jasur, minus his mount. The burly man angrily reprimanded Maheer after catching his breath. ¡°I expect a full report from you, Brother! We could¡¯ve died back then! Thank the heavens we only lost my mount this time!¡± ¡°Yes, Captain.¡± Maheer answered with hint of displeasure. He changed the topic next. ¡°These three are merchants, Captain. I am only following our creed!¡± ¡°Hmph. I will let it slide this time, Maheer.¡± Jasur found no fault in Maheer¡¯s words. He can only begrudgingly accept it. The burly man said some more words. ¡°Brothers, rest well! Let me bring the merchants instead!¡± ¡°But Captain?¡± ¡°What of it, Maheer? You must¡¯ve been tired. Go along now, Brother. I will take responsibility.¡± Maheer clicked his tongue in silence. There goes his chance to extract more concessions from Abbas. Alas what can he do versus his superior? The man can only tread away with hidden anger. ¡°As you command, Captain!¡± Upon watchful eyes of Jasur, Abbas and his friends had disembarked from the Sand Komodos. Their riders and Maheer entered the town first. Jasur then spoke when his men left earshot away. ¡°Traders, it must¡¯ve been harsh! I¡¯m Jasur Bin Abu, leader of thirty first Najaj Komodo Riders¡¯ team! Who are you, Brothers? Why did you come here?¡± ¡°Greetings, Great Sir! I am Salaman, an aid to my employer, Trader Abbas.¡± Salaman stepped forward and gave the brown-red leather armoured man a nod. The scholarly man faced to the side next. ¡°And this is Farhan, my good friend and bodyguard to Trader Abbas. We hail from Sujk.¡± ¡°Sujk? That¡¯s far!¡± Jasur paused. His eyebrows scrunched as he was mulling over something. ¡°Why did you Brothers come here? Didn¡¯t Maheer warn you that Najaj are now surrounded by dens of monsters?¡± Abbas was considering to bribe Jasur but Salaman warned him with his eyes that it wasn¡¯t a wise decision. The rotund merchant therefore, offered an explanation. ¡°Great Sir, we were just running an errand from Sujk. Who would¡¯ve thought I would lose nine men throughout the way? We were this close to Najaj when Maheer came to aid us.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Jasur spoke. What Salaman pointed at to Abbas was shown; the burly man was brutally honest. ¡°Truth to be told, you Brothers are throwing your lives away! No riches can save you in these harsh lands, at this state!¡± ¡°If you may, Great Sir?¡± Farhan interjected. His voice was a little unsteady. ¡°Is it true that¡­men from Agrippa Imperium are here?¡± ¡°Hm?¡± The burly man raised his eyebrows at Farhan. Seeing it wasn¡¯t a big deal to disclose it, he continued. ¡°They were here, Brother. Why, are you one of them?¡± ¡°Oh, no Brother.¡± Farhan shook his head. He gave a plausible sounding excuse. ¡°I¡¯ve always heard of their grand exploits! Too bad they had left.¡± ¡°Indeed.¡± Jasur agreed. He led the three men inside the reaches of Najaj. ¡°They left in a hurry for some reason. Even so, they gave us some of their tools and it had greatly helped us.¡± ¡°I concur, Brother.¡± Salaman said. The scholarly man gave Jasur a question. ¡°Great Sir Jasur, can I take a look at such devices? I wish to broaden my horizons.¡± ¡°Yes, Brothers! Maheer rescued them! They¡¯re humans like us!¡± Jasur yelled at one of the approaching guards. They were pointing their weapons at him. As they finally verified what Jasur said, he then turned his head at Salaman. ¡°Oh? What does a scholar like you see in such weapons, Brother? Aren¡¯t you an accountant, helping your master Abbas?¡± ¡°I heard the greatness of Agrippa Imperium, Great Sir, and I wish to see it!¡± Salaman said with much vigour. Farhan gave him a side eye. The scholarly man faked a cough in response. ¡°I mean¡­so that, if we had to venture out in the deserts, we¡¯ll have another means to defend ourselves? Fire Talismans are just distant dreams for us poor traders, Great Sir.¡± ¡°True, Fire Talismans were and are hoarded by immortals.¡± Jasur said. The burly man wrote something on papyrus handed by guards that had met him on the way. ¡°I afraid I cannot give any of those explosives to you, Brother. They are what kept Najaj alive, if not bruised. Damned vicious beasts!¡± ¡°Great Sir.¡± Abbas spoke next with some indignation. He let the approaching Najaj guards search his person. ¡°Can you inform me of what happened in Najaj? We thought there are great riches to be found here! Instead of honey, it¡¯s poison!¡± ¡°Brother! Why did you have poisons on you?!¡± One of the guards searching Farhan seized his bag and quickly pointed his spear at the middle-aged man. He saw Ava¡¯s snake avatar but ignored her as he thought it was just a common desert snake. Jasur saw this and waved his hands at the nervous guard. ¡°Relax, Brother! I heard from Maheer that they were running an errand from Sujk to here. Those things might be it.¡± The burly man spoke with a commanding tone. ¡°Return it to him. They are Trader Abbas¡¯s belongings.¡± ¡°But Sir!¡± ¡°I will take care of it.¡± Jasur didn¡¯t relent. He knew he was breaking protocol but he didn¡¯t want to give Abbas the wrong impression. ¡°Guards, we¡¯re not thieves. We have our principles!¡± ¡°As¡­as you command, Sir.¡± The guard complied and gave back the poison vials to Farhan with reluctance. ¡°It¡¯s good that you understand. Now leave to your posts!¡± Jasur began to be annoyed at these guards. They¡¯re a part of the militia like him but why were they treating him and his guests with disrespect? The burly man dissed them. ¡°There are many more works to be done, three more men aren¡¯t important! Shush!¡± The five guards gave Jasur a salute but nevertheless eyed Abbas¡¯s group with suspicion. Jasur can only sigh at the sight of this because it was true that they were on the edge for the past week. Najaj was barely standing thanks to the tools of Agrippa Imperium. But they were consumables and will run out! The guards weren¡¯t amicable to the idea of having three more men that can potentially endanger them all. They didn¡¯t know whether Abbas and his two friends can fight and thus assumed the three men will become liabilities, quite fast. The guards however, forgot about Ava which was watching them. Jasur adopted an apologetic tone to break the ice. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for that, Brothers. We had just survived another beast wave a moment ago. The town was attacked no less than five times for the past week!¡± The burly man led the three men to a peculiar, purple-looking tent on the west side of Najaj. ¡°Trader Abbas, you must¡¯ve taken a consignment from Wanderer Association, right?¡± ¡°Yes, Great Sir. They told me to deliver those vials to here.¡± Abbas confirmed without the slightest doubt in his face. It was time to gamble with the discussed lie in advance. ¡°They said I could get compensated if I did reach Najaj. But¡­.¡± ¡°It¡¯s as you¡¯ve seen, Trader.¡± Jasur said after saying some whispers to a young boy manning a small desk inside the tent. Next, the burly man explained more as the boy ran off to the back partition. ¡°We don¡¯t know what caused the beasts¡¯ stampedes. Perhaps Agrippan men knew?¡± Jasur shrugged his shoulders. ¡°Those brothers had long left us a few days ago. Men from Kazar are here although they¡¯re tight lipped.¡± ¡°Jasur! Is¡­is it true-¡± A croaky voice sounded from the back of the tent. ¡°They were from Sujk?!¡± Greeting the four men was a decrepit man styled in loose robes. His eyes however, were sharp. ¡°Bring it out! Bring the poison vials out!¡± ¡°Master.¡± There was a young boy next to the robed old man. He coughed to remind his excited patron. ¡°Kuhk!¡± The robed old man faked a cough as he talked out of the line. He introduced himself to Abbas and ignored the burly guard. ¡°I¡¯m Salazar! Alchemist from Kazar! Did Brother bring those poisons here?!¡± ¡°Esteemed Sir, yes!¡± Abbas was out of words against the boisterous old man. Salazar was uncomfortably close, holding both of the fat merchant¡¯s hands. The fat merchant ordered Farhan with his eyes that he should give those vials to this eccentric alchemist. ¡°Master Salazar?¡± Jasur spoke to the side. Salazar¡¯s apprentice, the young boy simply gestured he had nothing to do with it. The guard snorted a little. ¡°Master Salazar? Don¡¯t be rude, to my guests, Brother. They¡¯ve just escaped from disaster; Trader Abbas here lost nine of his good men!¡± ¡°Oh! That¡¯s bad! Heavens should pity you, good Brother!¡± Salazar was missing a tooth and his breath stunk. He left Abbas and started appraising some of the vials handed by Farhan. ¡°Brother, who made these?¡± ¡°Is there a problem, Master Salazar?¡± Salaman stepped forward, relieving Abbas from the robed old man¡¯s intense stare. ¡°I¡¯m Salaman, aid to Trader Abbas. Here is my good friend and bodyguard, Farhan.¡± ¡°Problem? No! They¡¯re just too good!¡± Salazar said with vigour. His hunched back was no more. ¡°I know all the alchemists in Sujk but none can make stuff like these!¡± The old man then returned the vial to its holding bag. ¡°The purity is high!¡± ¡°I afraid I don¡¯t understand, Master Alchemist?¡± ¡°Well since I¡¯m in a good mood, this Master will tell you, Brother Salaman.¡± ¡°Master Salazar, I¡¯ll back to my duties.¡± Jasur conveniently came with an excuse to leave. Once Salazar started his lectures, it will be hours to end. The burly guard said some parting words before exiting the tent. ¡°Brothers, if you get into trouble, just say my name! Najaj is tense so please, excuse us.¡± Abbas reacted a moment too late as Jasur had gone from his spot. Farhan simply stood to the side with disinterested expression. Salaman on the other hand got into fervent discussions with this new eccentric. Unfortunately for Abbas, Jasur was right; Salazar seemingly not intending to let them go! C26 - Exchange Salazar and Salaman could¡¯ve been said to be talking partners made in heaven. What eat, what rest? The two conversed until the sun came down and came back right up again! Abbas was chattering nonsense, having nightmares in his sleep. Farhan kept one eye barely opened. Ava was watching them. A gruff male voice sounded from outside. It was Jasur. ¡°Well met Brothers! Come, come out and eat!¡± ¡°Wuh-wah?¡± Abbas jolted to his feet, only to collide with one of wooden pillars propping Salazar¡¯s tent. ¡°Ouch!¡± The collision sent his mind spinning and his footing unsteady. ¡°Heavens, Brother Abbas, are you, all right?¡± Farhan snapped into action, stopping the fat merchant from bumping into many more things. At this point, Ava left the middle-aged man and slithered aside. Salazar on other hand withdrew some of his showcased items in time to see Abbas fell flat on his face. ¡°Merchant, what are you doing?¡± His face darkened a little and then lightened when he talked to Salaman again. ¡°Brother Salaman, by the looks of it, we should end our discussion here.¡± The alchemist called for his apprentice next. ¡°Dawub! Escort Merchant Abbas out!¡± ¡°Brother Salazar! No need to trouble your student!¡± Salaman gave a boisterous laugh and then helped the fat merchant with Farhan. ¡°Brother Abbas, sorry for that. I¡¯ll make it up to you.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­how?¡± Abbas gestured with his hands that he was wide awake now and didn¡¯t need further help from his friends. Skepticism was all but thinly veiled in his words. ¡°Brother Salaman, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust you but¡­¡± ¡°It will be worth your time, Brother.¡± The scholar whispered to his ears. ¡°Master Salazar taught me a few things-¡± He made an O with his thumb and index fingers in secret. ¡°that will help our enterprise. Big mullahs, Brother.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Abbas¡¯s nose twitched at prospect of profits. Even though he fell asleep halfway through their extensive dissertation, the fat merchant felt his scholarly brother had struck gold! Abbas quickly gave Salazar a curt nod. ¡°Thank you for enlightening us, Master Salazar!¡± ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing, merchant.¡± Salazar knew Abbas was just flattering him but as he got a good conversational partner, namely Salaman, his mood wasn¡¯t that bad. ¡°Brother Salaman, when you¡¯re free, come and visit this alchemist often! I¡¯d love to continue our discussion!¡± With invitation from Salazar¡¯s apprentice, Dawub, Jasur made his appearance at entrance area of the tent. The burly man spoke in a low voice to the black-haired young man. ¡°Boy, let¡¯s go eat. Oh, go persuade your master too.¡± ¡°Umm¡­Dawub will try, Uncle Jasur.¡± The young boy timidly answered the guard captain. He had a wry smile as Salazar was obstinate as an ox at times. ¡°Hmph, it¡¯s you again.¡± Salazar showed his face after trudging between his papyrus scrolls. The alchemist maintained an indifferent expression as Abbas and his friends went to the front. ¡°What now, Jasur? I told you countless times that I can¡¯t and won¡¯t make those Agrippan tools!¡± Salazar¡¯s irritation was clear in his voice. ¡°What explosives, what bombs? Agrippan tools are savage as their men! I make medicines, not tools to kill people!¡± ¡°Uhh¡­Master Salazar?¡± Jasur spoke after seeing indecisiveness from Salazar¡¯s disciple. ¡°I¡¯m here to invite you for lunch?¡± The burly guard shrugged his shoulders at the alchemist. ¡°Didn¡¯t we get over that already?¡± ¡°¡­.¡± Salazar gave Jasur a glare; he wasn¡¯t willing to admit that he had misspoken. The old man flung his voluminous sleeves and went back to his study. ¡°Dawub, you go first. I have something to do at the moment.¡± ¡°Yes¡­master.¡± His apprentice nodded. The boy frowned a little at Jasur as if telling the guard that his master was hard to please and predict. ¡°Master Salazar, we¡¯ll be going first.¡± Salaman said to represent his group. As they left Salazar¡¯s tent, the scholarly man turned around for a moment. ¡°Well Brother, I¡¯ll inform your little student about our next session. We¡¯re still green around these parts so, I hope you understand.¡± ¡°A trifling matter. Don¡¯t make this alchemist wait too long, haha!¡± The alchemist was cheerful when he was replying to Salaman. It was as if anyone other than the scholar was beneath his notice. He focused his gaze to his side and saw his disciple haven¡¯t left yet. ¡°Dawub? What are you dawdling here for? Go with them!¡± ¡°Umm¡­master?¡± The young boy lowered his head. He carefully chose his words. ¡°It would be¡­bad if master didn¡¯t eat.¡± ¡°Sigh-¡± Salazar calmed down as his young disciple didn¡¯t do anything wrong and it would be unfair to be angry at him. The alchemist tapped on Dawub¡¯s shoulders while coming up with an excuse. ¡°Then, go get me some bread and soup, Dawub. I need to properly store the vials given by them first.¡± ¡°Will you be fine, Master?¡± The apprentice asked. ¡°Since they¡¯re higher purity?¡± ¡°What do you take me for, my disciple?¡± Salazar arched his back and laughed. He continued, ¡°It¡¯s just a couple of vials, it¡¯s not like I want to uh¡­use them now or anything, haha.¡± ¡°Okay. Pinky promise, Master.¡± ¡°Fine. Now go, go quick, Dawub! I want you to keep watch on them, especially on that Farhan guy.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll try my best, Master!¡± Salazar watched his disciple depart and joined the rest of the leaving men. The air outside was merry as Jasur had called for a celebratory lunch to welcome Abbas¡¯s group despite their meager resources. Salazar sighed again as he stored his stuffs to their boxes. It seemed he will be in Najaj for a while. As the alchemist was closing one of his open scrolls, his gut told him that something was off. He put the scroll aside and glanced around. ¡°May¡­may I know which master had come to visit this humble one?¡± ¡°That¡¯s¡­strange.¡± Salazar muttered under his breath as there was no response after the time it took to brew a pot of coffee. He tried again while clasping his hands together. ¡°Please, excuse my ignorance for not welcoming you in person.¡± Yet another silence as Salazar didn¡¯t hear anything in return. The alchemist however, stayed rooted in his spot with his head in deference. What some time worth? Despite his brash nature to others, patience was well inculcated in his person due to his line of work. Certain things took time to finish! Salazar began to be cautious. Of all these years being an alchemist, he didn¡¯t lack experience in danger! He backed off, reaching for his personal weapon. As he extended his hand to his staff, there was a plain snake wrapped around it. At first, he thought it was a common one but he rapidly kowtowed. ¡°Please excuse this old one! I have eyes but didn¡¯t see Mount Tai!¡± Salazar kept his head glued to the ground. Whatever that thing was, he can only hope for the best and beg for mercy. The snake of course, was Ava¡¯s avatar. She took action after those noisy mortals had left. The Post-Human spoke directly into Salazar¡¯s mind. ¡°Tell me, how did you discover me?¡± ¡°¡­..¡± For once Salazar didn¡¯t know to whether laugh or cry. What¡¯s this¡­hidden master talking about? He gulped and replied. ¡°Umm¡­I¡¯m not sure if the answer¡­.is to your liking, Great One?¡± ¡°Speak.¡± Ava commanded without much thought. She wasn¡¯t bothered about his concern anyway as she had other things in mind. To Salazar however, he felt as if a heavy burden was lifted over his shoulders. He continued. ¡°After a while talking with Brother Salaman, I finally noticed Great One was looking at me all this while. Forgive this old man for being blind and unthoughtful, O¡¯ Great One.¡± ¡°Rise. Your knees are bad.¡± Ava said, seeing the alchemist seldom trembled in place. She slid off her snake avatar to a crate next to the staff. ¡°Sit.¡± Salazar complied with her order as a wise man submits to the circumstances. He was bewildered but kept mum. ¡°As you command, Great One.¡± ¡°For your exchange with Salaman-¡± Ava moved her snake avatar forward and whipped its tail to both of the alchemist¡¯s knees. ¡°reciprocates another. Stand up, Alchemist.¡± At first Salazar felt sharp jabs at his knees but then miraculous things happened; his knees no longer ached, his crouched spine was re-straightened and hidden poisons in his body had vanished! Such changes were so abrupt that he stood with a dumbfounded face. ¡°¡­.¡± ¡°Alchemist?¡± Ava propelled her snake avatar left and right, circling the robed man for several times. He was still as a statue. The Post Human suspected she had failed for some reason. Thus, she sent a tiny neural blast to him. ¡°Alchemist. Wake up.¡±The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Putong! ¡°Thank you-¡± Salazar sobered and dropped on all fours. ¡°for your benevolence, Great One.¡± He refused to meet her snake avatar¡¯s eyes. ¡°This old man cannot repay you except with his life!¡± Ava was bewildered about his behaviour. She had disguised her regeneration ability that was temporarily conferred to him to be similar to those pills ate by Akeila. What was strange about it? The Post Human discarded her line of thought and focused on the alchemist again. ¡°Your fervor is appreciated but no. I have plans for you, Alchemist. You do not need to stake your life. You are more useful alive.¡± As the alchemist¡¯s stomach grumbled, she spoke more. ¡°And go eat. Your injuries may be gone but there is a price to be paid. There is no free lunch in this world or anywhere else.¡± Salazar found her words to be logical. He didn¡¯t stand in ceremony and rose. ¡°¡­. sorry about that, Great One.¡± Being an alchemist, Salazar tried to guess what she did. He cannot help than to speak flurry of words to her. ¡°This is¡­. not immortal technique? O¡¯ Great One, I¡¯m sorry if I speak too much but did you use Dias technique to heal this alchemist? Or, or! Hadian force acupuncture?!¡± His growling stomach broke the tension. ¡°Ahaha-ha. Uhh¡­okay, I¡¯ll go eat first.¡± Before Ava could answer, Dawub came to the front of Salazar¡¯s tent. ¡°Master, here¡¯s the bread and soup.¡± The young boy put down the plates he carried on top of a wooden table. ¡°Master? Are you there?¡± The Post Human shifted her glance. Salazar got the hint and promptly replied. ¡°Good, good, disciple! Yes, leave it there!¡± ¡°Master¡­?¡± There was trace of doubt in Dawub¡¯s voice. Isn¡¯t Master usually angry every time? The brown-eyed boy was halfway to the back partition of said tent. ¡°Master, is there anything wrong? You didn¡¯t get poisoned again, right?¡± ¡°No, nothing!¡± Salazar arched his back again and met with his little student. ¡°Master just found new material to speak with Brother Salaman!¡± ¡°¡­. really?¡± Dawub was unconvinced. He stared at his master. ¡°Master, you¡¯re not lying, are you?¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m not!¡± The old alchemist scrambled for answers. He coincidentally saw Ava pointing with her snake avatar¡¯s tail on an open scroll depicting a giant red arachnid and then purplish vials given by Farhan. ¡°Master found out what the poisons are. They¡¯re from Red Scorpions and had none of their intrinsic dissolving properties!¡± ¡°Oh-¡± Dawub immediately lost interest. He had heard his master spoke of poisons for umpteenth time that his ears became sore. Seeing nothing was out of place, the young boy gave Salazar a measured bow. ¡°then, please eat Master. Dawub will be joining Uncles outside.¡± ¡°Okay, you can go now, Dawub. I¡¯ll eat after I finish writing.¡± Salazar gave his disciple a noncommittal response while holding up a writing brush. His eyes were shifting from side to side. Dawub was surprised that his master didn¡¯t reprimand him for associating with people this time. He found it odd but decided to ignore it anyway as his master was unpredictable. He gave Salazar another bow and then left. ¡°Don¡¯t forget to eat, Master. Dawub will be back soon.¡± As soon as his disciple disappeared, a soft thud sounded next to the alchemist. Ava talked to his mind yet again. ¡°Consider this as a gift, Alchemist, as you had taught me many things.¡± ¡°Hmm?¡± This time it was Salazar¡¯s turn to be surprised. That fist-sized purple crystal came out from thin air! Then Ava¡¯s latter statement hit him. ¡°Oh, no Great One! I wouldn¡¯t dare to be your teacher! It¡¯s not enough to teach anyone!¡± The robed old man felt he was a bit uncouth and thus quickly supplicated his words. ¡°If Great One is willing, I can tell everything I know! Even secrets I didn¡¯t teach to my dear disciple!¡± ¡°Do not panic-¡± Ava sent another neural blast to calm the nerves of the old man and continued. ¡°as it was an exchange of services.¡± She moved her snake avatar to a table adjacent to the crate she was sitting on. ¡°Besides, I wanted to request something from you.¡± ¡°Request?¡± Salazar looked at the shimmering purple crystal that had landed on one of his scrolls. He picked it up. ¡°Does Great One wanted me to identify this? But¡­¡± The alchemist flipped it many times yet he didn¡¯t know what it was. ¡°I¡¯m ashamed that I don¡¯t know what this crystal is.¡± ¡°My request is something else, Alchemist.¡± The Post Human briefly read some of the opened scrolls in front of her. ¡°You need to abandon your prior convictions for my request.¡± The alchemist carefully stored the crystal away in a leather pouch. He then lowered his head in deference. ¡°Considering Great One had solved my decade-old illness, I would do anything you instructed-¡± Salazar recalled about his disciple and quickly kowtowed to her. ¡°and if possible, can Great One take my disciple under your wings? This alchemist is already old and only a small fish in a pond! Great One must be a dragon among dragons!¡± ¡°I cannot take your disciple.¡± Ava¡¯s answer dampened his mood, indicating fate didn¡¯t allow it be. However, her next words gave Salazar some glimmer of hope that he could be connected to this mysterious master. ¡°But what I request will require your disciple. And the rest of Najaj riders.¡± ¡°Yes, yes, anything you command, Great One!¡± The alchemist wanted to kowtow harder but his body didn¡¯t move as he wished. Instead, a gentle force caused him to stand up. This must be a consummate expert! The robed old man thus bowed repeatedly at Ava¡¯s snake avatar. ¡°I will go all out to support you, Great One! Come shaitan, slay shaitan! Come buddha, kill buddha!¡± Ava retracted her [Gravity Control] ability. That¡¯s one experiment done! Thus, she spoke to his mind. ¡°No, you do not need to fight. You need to craft things for me.¡± She pointed her snake avatar¡¯s tail to the side. Several sand-coloured round objects appeared and fell on the papyrus mat below. ¡°You need to make tools to kill people and things. Agrippan tools.¡± ¡°This¡­.¡± Salazar had an internal turmoil. His conscience said no but his instinct told him to obey her lest she became furious. The alchemist picked some of said objects and appraised it. ¡°Is this what you said that I need to abandon my convictions, Great One?¡± Salazar was hesitant. ¡°Do you plan¡­uh¡­¡± He kowtowed again after putting the object in his hands to his right side. ¡°If I did anything wrong, please, take my life and spare my disciple! He¡¯s innocent!¡± Ava was amused at his reaction. Why should she kill him? She reminded him again. ¡°Alchemist, you are more useful to me alive.¡± She pointed at such spherical objects. ¡°Najaj is surrounded by vicious beasts. From what I saw, there are a lot of brave men here but wouldn¡¯t Agrippan tools massively help and allow them to live another day?¡± Ava felt talkative at this moment and henceforth voiced her thoughts. ¡°Yes, such tools are barbaric but what is more important here, your lives or some paltry ¡®honour¡¯? This is the cruel reality, Alchemist.¡± ¡°Err¡­.¡± Salazar was speechless. What she said was right! This was not Kazar with their mighty guards but instead Najaj! They could fight the monsters off but for pyrrhic victory! The old man therefore, rose to his feet. ¡°I need¡­to just make them, right? But uh¡­I don¡¯t know if I can replicate it, Great One.¡± He reasoned, ¡°Don¡¯t be offended Great One; I have some guesses about how they work but Agrippa Imperium kept certain things such as their explosive jars a tightly guarded secret.¡± A pause arrived as Ava was mulling over the issue. From her experience staying with Husan, giving advanced tools was ill-advised, or even dangerous. In face of a grand treasure, what were ties, what were propriety? Friends became enemies, families torn apart! However, a grumble broke the silence. Obviously, it was from Salazar. His stomach to be exact. ¡°Uh¡­sorry for that, Great One. This¡­alchemist will go eat first, yeah.¡± Ava simply nodded and paid no further attention to the alchemist. She faced a peculiar dilemma; those Agrippan tools were clearly grenades despite being primitive. Her challenge was to replicate them that they wouldn¡¯t out of place in this world. Her own advanced technologies were double-edged swords. If she cannot solve it, there goes her plan to use Abbas as her proxy. Najaj¡¯s vicinity was inundated by beasts, making trades all but impossible! Thus, by hook or crook, she needed to help Najaj mortals one way or another. She then moved her snake avatar around and slightly opened Salazar¡¯s scrolls one by one. The Post Human spoke to Salazar after seeing he had finished his meal. ¡°Alchemist, do you bring any metals with you?¡± ¡°Metals?¡± The alchemist had retrieved the purple crystal given by her and was examining it again. ¡°I do, Great One. But¡­I¡¯m not sure if they are enough for your purposes, Great One?¡± ¡°No matter. Tell me.¡± Ava sent another mental transmission to the robed old man. She continued. ¡°I have an idea. But you need to dirty your hands.¡± ¡°Dirty my hands?¡± Salazar stowed the crystal back to its pouch and then put a small papyrus slip in front of Ava''s snake avatar. ¡°Here, Great One. What I have is listed on the paper. I hope Great One understand that me and my disciple can only bring so much to Najaj.¡± Ava perused the slip and went through it. The Post Human was a little surprised that this alchemist had a couple of good stuff! What she recognized were alum, fool¡¯s gold and quicksilver. As for the rest, they were either irrelevant or unknown to her. She had some questions about them but postponed it. Salazar monitored her every move. He steeled himself and asked her. ¡°Great One, are Abbas and others are your servants?¡± The alchemist lowered his head and spoke more. ¡°Can¡­can I be your servant too?¡± He proceeded to clasp his hands together as if he was praying to her. ¡°Please, even if Great One didn¡¯t take me or my disciple into your sight, let me be your servant at least! I can-¡± Ava stopped him from kowtowing again. ¡°Alchemist, I do not need servants.¡± Her announcement was another pour of cold water on him. As he was distraught, she determined to compromise a little bit. ¡°This is an exchange, Alchemist. As what I planned for Abbas isn¡¯t feasible, therefore¡­¡± Salazar was wise enough to pick up her hints. ¡°Sure! No problem! I¡¯ll do anything you commanded, Great One!¡± ¡°Stop kowtowing to me, Alchemist.¡± Ava began to be annoyed as she stopped him for the third time from being on all-fours. ¡°I do not look for a yesman. I look for a work man.¡± ¡°¡­.¡± Salazar awkwardly scratched his nose. He was a little too excessive. The robed old man then nodded in shame. ¡°You¡¯re¡­right, Great One. How should I address you, Great One?¡± The Post Human paused a little and then answered. ¡°Call me Master Nour. Apart from Abbas and his two friends, do not speak of me to others.¡± Although her tone was flat as always, there was an implied threat in her mental transmission. ¡°Even your own disciple. Certain things are better left unsaid and unknown.¡± ¡°Okay. Then, what should I do, Great On-, I mean, Master Nour?¡± Salazar had a slip of tongue and quickly corrected it. Ava moved her snake avatar to another pile of crates owned by Salazar. Some of them contained iron tools. ¡°Back-breaking work, Alchemist. I will teach you how to make stuffs like those Agrippan tools.¡± ¡°Back¡­back-breaking? What?¡± Salazar was confused. Is¡­is that why this master healed my aching back? But¡­for what? The alchemist followed her gaze and saw one of his shovels in said crates. ¡°Uh¡­how can we dig trenches in sea of sand, Master Nour?¡± ¡°We won¡¯t be making those. We will collect human waste.¡± Ava said. Seeing he was still perplexed, she clarified. ¡°Human excrement or what you call around here as, ¡®shit¡¯. We must also collect animal¡¯s manure.¡± The alchemist was befuddled even further. What would human poo do with Agrippan tools? Will they pelt those vicious monsters with foul-smelling ¡®matter¡¯? Ava sent another mental transmission, saying it was a necessary step to her plans. Salazar can only wryly smile and guess her intentions of doing so. As the robed alchemist was about to take one of his shovels, he heard a commotion. ¡°Dear guest! Don¡¯t just rush in! Master Alchemist Salazar don¡¯t take kindly to intruders!¡± There were voices of various people outside. Salazar didn¡¯t know this one. ¡°What, are you going to block me, Captain Jasur? I have urgent matters to speak with him! Let me through!¡± C27 - Assigned Works Bang! The table once used by Dawub to receive his master¡¯s guests flew and embedded itself on the middle partition splitting Salazar¡¯s tent. If not for timely warning from Ava, said table would¡¯ve smashed right on the robed alchemist¡¯s face! Salazar was both furious and in pain; his back was bent to odd angles. Such was his rage that he immediately cursed the perpetrator. ¡°You son of shoes! You almost hit my face!¡± The alchemist grabbed his shovel and was about to throw it forward until Ava stopped him again. He can only yell curses in return. ¡°May heavens curse your house!¡± Ava saw a blurry humanoid flashed into the alchemist¡¯s tent. She spat something to the intruder and they collapsed in that instant. It turned out that the rude guest was a male dressed in a peculiar desert robe; his apparel had flowing waves markings made from gold. Who was he and what he wanted? Jasur was heard outside again. ¡°Oh! I apologise Master Alchemist!¡± The burly man turned to his side. ¡°I have to trouble you, Brother Farhan.¡± ¡°Hey, it¡¯s me that should be troubled-¡± Farhan replied with a slight smile. ¡°for not stopping your guest in time, Brother.¡± He saw Ava¡¯s snake avatar and then Salazar. ¡°Sorry for the intrusion, Master. We¡¯ll take him out.¡± ¡°Hmph. Take him out or lock him, I don¡¯t care!¡± Salazar was still furious. ¡°Get him out of my sight!¡± He then put back his shovel to its place. If not for yet another mental warning from Ava, he would¡¯ve beaten the interloper with his digging tool. Jasur had a wry smile as the result. ¡°This¡¯s my fault, Master Salazar.¡± He tried to be diplomatic while propping the unconscious man with Farhan. ¡°I¡¯ll assign some of my more capable men to your residence.¡± ¡°Ugh, no need. This alchemist can take care of himself-¡± Salazar disagreed. His anger gradually subsided. ¡°Najaj need them more than me!¡± Ava gave him a reminder of which he relayed to Jasur. ¡°But now you offered your men, then give me some.¡± ¡°Then¡­¡± Jasur signaled to Farhan that they should put the offender down first. He did so with the middle-aged man and then spoke to Salazar again. ¡°...to stand guard or do errands for you, Master Alchemist?¡± He guessed. ¡°Work. I need capable hands-¡± Salazar answered while imperceptibly shifted his eyes to Ava time to time. ¡°to salvage beast carcasses around Najaj and help me in one of my research projects.¡± ¡°That can be arranged!¡± Jasur exclaimed. Befriending an alchemist would bring them untold benefits! Even though he wasn¡¯t sure what was the project, he wasn¡¯t boorish enough to pry. ¡°How many men do you need, Master Alchemist?¡± ¡°Do you need my aid as well, Master Salazar?¡± Farhan asked for appearance¡¯s sake as Ava had mentally told him to help Salazar as well. He was a bit amazed that she had contacted the alchemist but he was sure she must have her reasons, considering Najaj was surrounded by vicious beasts at the moment. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. I heard from Brother Salaman that you¡¯re good with knives so your services will be needed.¡± The alchemist gave an excuse to justify Farhan¡¯s participation. He then answered Jasur. ¡°There are sixty to seventy men in your militia right, Jasur? Give me eight to ten men, with steady hands.¡± ¡°Eight to ten men?¡± Jasur paused while Farhan took two wooden stools and offered one to the burly guard. ¡°Master Salazar, I can lend you at most, four men to go with you.¡± Jasur was a little reluctant even with the supposed benefits coming from helping the alchemist. ¡°We¡¯re stretched thin as it is.¡± Salazar answered immediately as if he already knew how to answer Jasur. ¡°Yes, I only need around four men to go with me.¡± The robed alchemist pointed at his shovel next. ¡°As for rest, I need them to do my little project in Najaj itself.¡± He gestured with his hands. ¡°It''ll be dirty work however!¡± Farhan interjected. ¡°Forgive me for being blunt, Master Alchemist. But do you mean the rest of men should dig trenches in Najaj?¡± He was too, skeptical as Jasur. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that be, quite difficult?¡± ¡°It isn¡¯t about digging trenches but-¡± Much to Jasur¡¯s amazement, Salazar didn¡¯t get angry at Farhan. The robed alchemist moved and opened an embroidered scroll. ¡°clearing the rubbles and¡­.¡± The scroll showed a map of Najaj and was given to Salazar by Jasur. ¡°investigate sewage system in this town.¡± ¡°Inspect the sewage?¡± Jasur raised his eyebrows. He came with his own theory. ¡°Do you mean, there¡¯s a chance of vicious beasts using the tunnels?¡± He propped his chin. ¡°We had long blocked them off.¡± ¡°No, not about monsters but you said you blocked them, Jasur?¡± The alchemist briefly glanced at the opened map scroll on his table. ¡°Then, they will accumulate. Plagues will happen, Jasur.¡± He reasoned further. ¡°If we don¡¯t control the flow. I also wanted your men to check the refuse for certain traces.¡± ¡°You mean¡­.¡± The burly guard captain came up with multiple possibilities in his mind. He remembered how human corpse-wearing monsters almost got into Najaj last time! ¡°This''s a matter of grave importance, Master Salazar.¡± He rose from his wooden stool and nodded. ¡°I will dispatch my men, immediately.¡± Jasur and Farhan then hauled the unconscious man to east of Najaj, to one of three temporary infirmaries in the town. Meanwhile, Ava had a conversation with the alchemist regarding metals in his possession. From it, she gradually understood that certain metals were called differently in this world. For example, what was known to her as fool¡¯s gold was named as fire strike gold by Salazar. Alum was called as Vitriol of Ardenkesh, presumably from its origin or discoverer. Their properties however, differ little to what she knew. Ava didn¡¯t correct the given names as she wanted to blend to this world. She took some metals offered by Salazar and in return told him of some things. The alchemist felt it was fair trade as her statements gave him further inspiration for his future works. More importantly, Ava was willing to take problematic metals off his hands, saving him headaches on how to properly store them! After helping Jasur carry the unconscious man, Farhan returned to the alchemist''s tent. He asked the robed old man. ¡°Master Salazar, can you tell me, why you want to look for traces?¡± Farhan gave Ava a glance. She didn¡¯t respond, seemingly intending for him to continue. He thus spoke. ¡°Is there a shapeshifting monster out there?¡± ¡°Unfortunately, that''s the case.¡± Salazar shook his head. ¡°Your Master may had given me an opportunity to help but my concern about such traces are genuine.¡± He lowered his head at Ava¡¯s snake avatar. ¡°Najaj had seen couple of them, Master Nour. One way to know is to check the sewage. These beasts are unique and can be looked for as such.¡± The Post Human spoke to his mind. Her tone was flat yet there was a hint of mockery in her mental transmission. ¡°You are not suspecting me that I might be one of them, Alchemist?¡± ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t doubt you the slightest, Master Nour! You¡¯re wise and benevolent! I wouldn¡¯t dare to accuse you to be one of those detested, man-eating vicious beings!¡± Salazar quickly bowed at her. Seeing the robed alchemist had passed her test, she continued. ¡°Although I found your utter devotion to me¡­troubling, let put that aside for now.¡± She slithered her snake avatar on the map scroll. ¡°Tell me their characteristics. I may be able to help you and, Najaj. Besides, I am interested to capture one.¡± ¡°I¡¯m¡­ashamed, Great One.¡± Salazar wanted to kowtow to her again but he knew better that she looked down on such things. He explained with an embarrassed tone. ¡°The beasts¡­. have no set form. But from my discussion with other alchemists, we agreed on couple points. They tend to have nauseous aura and if one looks closer for a time, their eyes are different. Crimson-tinted.¡±Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. The alchemist produced several objects on one of his work tables. ¡°Another way, albeit slower, is to check for sewage. We alchemists were tasked to look for them before and developed a method.¡± He cautiously wore a beak-like mask and thin leather gloves. ¡°If we mix them¡­we can see the reagent turning orange. Proof of their presence.¡± Salazar explained more. ¡°My good friend from Vias-Mortas University said they aren¡¯t beasts but tiny evil beings. I almost cut all ties with him until I saw what he showed me, Master Nour.¡± ¡°Master Nour, forgive me for interrupting.¡± Farhan said while bowing his head at Ava. She expressed her approval by nodding the head of her snake avatar. ¡°If I may ask, are they by chance, go with the name of Va¡¯at Thirteen Evil Plagues?¡± The middle-aged man said. ¡°I heard it from Brother Salaman.¡± ¡°Hmm, Brother Salaman is truly wise.¡± Salazar mumbled to himself. He didn¡¯t bother to cross-examine Farhan. The alchemist stowed his reagents and then carefully disposed his gloves and the reacted sample to a fire brazier next to his work table. ¡°I don''t know what they''re called but my colleagues said it might be one of them.¡± Salazar opened another scroll on a different table after removing his mask. ¡°Although I disagree with some of Agrippan principles, those uncouth lot broadened my horizons. My University friend used a tiny glass piece from the Imperium-" He backed away and let Farhan and Ava took closer look at it. "and drew some pictures of the evil spirits for me.¡± Ava pondered a bit while Farhan had slight tinge of surprise on his face. So, the middle-aged man knew something. She decided to give him a lifeline. ¡°I know a bit about them. They are indeed tiny evil spirits, too small to be seen with the naked eye.¡± She threw a guess. ¡°Is that why you needed poisons?¡± ¡°Yes, Master Nour.¡± Salazar confirmed without delay. ¡°Only the strongest poisons, when prepared properly, will defeat such invisible evil critters.¡± He gave his vial racks a glance. ¡°I had tested some on small animals such as fishes and rats but for men? I¡¯m not sure if they can work properly.¡± The Post Human was enlightened again; despite the primitiveness of these mortals, Salazar for example, knew about micro-organisms and was theorizing about inoculations! Then again, there were still many unknowns. This world had fantastical creatures such as that evil shaitan with no set body. She cannot equate what she knew with reality of this world as they appeared to work on slightly different principles. What if such organisms cannot be defeated with technology but require magical stuff like the so-called dao? There were many mysteries to be unraveled before her world domination. A familiar voice came from outside as they were mulling over the implications. ¡°Master Alchemist! I¡¯m Maheer and here are your eight men!¡± ¡°Good! I¡¯ll distribute the tasks soon!¡± Salazar beckoned Farhan to follow him after closing some of his open scrolls. Ava slithered her avatar to Farhan¡¯s shoulders again as the alchemist spoke. ¡°Maheer, did you see my little disciple Dawub?¡± ¡°I¡¯m here, Master.¡± The little boy appeared next to Maheer. He gave his master a curt bow. ¡°What should I do, Master?¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Salazar was appraising the men individually. Most of them were pale-faced and fatigued but their eyes were unyielding. Perhaps it was due to an opportunity to befriend Salazar or they were expecting a breakthrough from the alchemist regarding their peril. He said. ¡°They will do.¡± The robed alchemist then talked to the black-haired boy. ¡°Call for Brother Salaman later. You¡¯ll work with him and four of them.¡± He paused a little. ¡°Prepare masks, clothes and gloves first. Teach them what to do.¡± ¡°Okay, Master. As usual, got it.¡± Dawub nodded at his master and entered the back partition of their tent. Maheer was curious about their conversation and thus asked. ¡°I heard from Captain Jasur on your request but what exactly do you plan for them, Great Alchemist? For men that will be doing the task in this town?¡± ¡°You mayhaps heard of it, Maheer.¡± The alchemist was retrieving some iron tools and handed it to Farhan that was standing to the side. ¡°That Najaj encountered vicious shapeshifters? I wouldn¡¯t make you Agrippan explosives, but-¡± He glanced at his disciple at work. ¡°I¡¯ll help Najaj about the evil beasts.¡± ¡°I have to trouble your disciple, Great Master.¡± Maheer sincerely nodded. It was true they were on the edge about those tricky vicious beings. ¡°Sorry if I asked too much, but how could it be done?¡± ¡°Well, it isn¡¯t exactly a secret.¡± Salazar went out of his way to elaborate, presumably to better prepare the men of their upcoming work. ¡°You need to dabble with excrements and the like. Your hands will be filthy.¡± ¡°Filthy? What a couple of stains could¡¯ve done to us, hahah!¡± One of the assembled men laughed. The alchemist sighed. These men were too brash for their own good! He carefully explained. ¡°Those excrements aren''t your real concern.¡± He spoke a little to Dawub and got a vial from his disciple. ¡°But the methods are. Certain things needed to the respected.¡± He opened one vial and dropped a few drops of its contents on a piece of papyrus. ¡°See. If you¡¯re not careful, your hand will be gone like the wind!¡± The seven men following Maheer were shocked that they were out of words. What kind of liquid had dissolved the papyrus in seconds? It was odorless and colourless, unlike those shot by Red Scorpions! They began to regret their decision but there was no getting off the tiger once you had ridden on it! To break the awkwardness, Maheer spoke again. ¡°What about the man that we restrained, Great Alchemist? Do you know him?¡± He put up a helpless expression. ¡°We could exile him but we will only send him to his death.¡± As the ball was now in Salazar¡¯s court, he sighed. ¡°I truly didn¡¯t know him personally.¡± The alchemist shrugged his shoulders. ¡°I lost count how many men were jealous or found their views challenged by my work.¡± He looked at Maheer. ¡°Please understand. The work of us alchemists aren¡¯t necessarily fortunate.¡± The alchemist then looked at the dusk skies. ¡°How many had perished in pursuit of knowledge? No one knows.¡± He had a melancholic gaze, suggesting people to sympathize with him. Maheer paused. It looked like Salazar was telling the truth. Nevertheless, it was more important to carry out the tasks assigned by the alchemist. He dropped the topic and said something else. ¡°Okay. Then me and three brothers here will follow you out there. The other four will assist your disciple.¡± ¡°Then it''s settled. Prepare yourselves as we depart at next dawn.¡± Salazar was satisfied with Maheer¡¯s arrangement. He cannot ask for more as what Jasur stated was right. It was the best compromise given to him. The alchemist continued. ¡°As for you four, your work can begin after my disciple''s ready.¡± ¡°What should we do other than following your disciple¡¯s instructions, Grand Master?¡± One of the men assigned to the dirty sewage work asked with nod of respect. He felt there was something more to it. Salazar kept mum as Ava mentally told him of their pending tasks. He took a deep breath and then answered. ¡°Since you¡¯ll be working with my disciple, there¡¯s no harm to tell it now¡± The alchemist gave the four men another glance. ¡°I heard from Jasur, your captain that you¡¯ve blocked some of the tunnels?¡± The men nodded to his question. He talked more. ¡°I want you to reroute some of them-¡± Salazar gestured with his hands as he explained. ¡°into five or six pools. Let in some sunlight to dry them.¡± ¡°Is it necessary, Great Alchemist?¡± Maheer asked with some concern. ¡°We want to avoid attention from Javalan Flies if possible. Opening some tunnels will bring them here." He shuddered. "Millions of them.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Salazar had expected his question and prepared an answer. ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯ll lend some of my items to your men. They¡¯ll keep those vicious insects away.¡± The alchemist gave another alternative. ¡°Or you could put some refuse in grand pots and heat them.¡± He muttered. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s more feasible.¡± ¡°Okay. They¡¯ll do the second suggestion then, Master Salazar.¡± Maheer agreed as the latter was more practical. He cannot help than to ask more. ¡°For what purpose we heat them, Great Master?¡± Salazar also knew Maheer would question the need. He explained. ¡°To concentrate the excrements. My method to look for those evil beings requires this step.¡± Dawub approached Salazar next after finishing his given task. ¡°Good job, my disciple!¡± ¡°Un.¡± The young boy was elated. Not only his master allowed him to make new friends, he also complimented him, a rarity these days! Dawub got out of his reverie and asked the alchemist. ¡°What about¡­Uncle Abbas, Master?¡± ¡°The merchant?¡± Salazar gave momentary glance at Ava. After getting her explanation in his mind, the alchemist said. ¡°He¡¯ll stay here, to appraise the things we salvage out there!¡± ¡°Will you make us new armours and stuff, Master Alchemist?¡± This time Farhan asked as he perceived Maheer wanted to ask about it but didn¡¯t dare do so. ¡°It would greatly help our Najaj friends.¡± ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. And why your knives skills are needed.¡± Salazar replied while reiterating his prior point to request Farhan¡¯s assistance. ¡°Now the tasks are distributed, please rest well Brothers. We shall do our task tomorrow.¡± Maheer soon departed with his seven militiamen after briefly summarizing the works. He and his three brothers will travel on foot several lis away from the town to help Salazar and Farhan salvage monster corpses. The other four men will help Dawub and Salaman on exploring and analysing sewage of Najaj. Abbas, the fat merchant will stay and await further news from the alchemist and his assigned men. Ava stayed silent as they went through their plans, a tacit unspoken approval to what Salazar had planned to fulfill her requests. She waited for the next day to come as these mortals needed their rest. C28 - Salvage While most mortals in Najaj were deep in sleep, Ava managed to somewhat restore communications to her other half, the monolith deep within bowels of Alkharm Wadi. However, most of it promptly collapsed due to severe lack of quanta. What remained was a tiny link, barely enough to relay words. There¡¯s no smoke without fire; her predicament was self-inflicted due her prior circumstances. When the crimson shaitan made a move against Farhan back then, her other half encountered a large fiery being. Large was an understatement as she wasn¡¯t that familiar with sense of scale of this new world. That titanic lifeform was literally made from fire itself and had attitude to match! It appeared without warning and smacked her mining equipment to smithereens with one of purple pillars submerged in lava pool that her other half found. Of course, she wasn¡¯t willing to back down in face of such disaster! With nothing else feasible, Ava gambled. She burnt most of her stockpiled quanta at that time and opened a miniscule spatial tunnel between two locations; in front of the fire titan and the crimson shaitan. As it was abrupt both sides were confused but exchange of auras occurred, enraging both! It was a classic case of piper clam, bird and fisherman. The Post Human was the fisherman. Ava simply channeled the crimson shaitan¡¯s attacks to the titan, solving the problem for her. Nevertheless, her spatial tunnel collapsed next and she was forced to use [Disintegration] to take care of the shaitan. The result? She can now mine as she wished and gained four new followers! However, there was no gain without pain; her snake avatar now cannot use transcendent Post Humans¡¯ abilities of [Disintegration] and [Molecular Assembly] without harming itself. Only [Gravity Control] was viable as it scaled with desired effect. At this point, it was good to say she was crippled, using the term borrowed from the so-called immortal cultivators of this world. If only she had more quanta, endless avatars were possible! If only she had more quanta, no foe shall stand in her way! If only she had more quanta, this world will fall overnight! Whether by divine intervention or luck, fate didn¡¯t allow it be. How laughable. She, a technological singularity, was put to whims of whatever higher powers in this world. It was ironic that she too, was forced to fight like denizens of this world did, to overturn the heavens and claim their rightful spot in the grand dao. Ava can only deal with the cards she was given and make best use of the situation. The Post Human thus fully sealed her two initial abilities in exchange of creating a metallic sphere as part of her long-term plans. She sent it to the ground below, as the seventh seed to be placed in these harsh lands. Afterwards, the Post Human actuated her snake avatar as dawn was fast approaching. She simultaneously spoke to all three minds of Farhan and his friends. ¡°Now is the time for your arranged tasks.¡± Ava was near the opening of the tent assigned to the trio. ¡°Tarry not as time waited for no one.¡± ¡°M-master Nour?¡± Salaman yawned. The day outside was still dark. ¡°N-n-now?¡± The scholarly man sat upright and slapped his face in order to stay awake. ¡°W¡­wise words, Master Nour. Can¡­can I use it?¡± ¡°Brother Abbas?¡± Farhan was wide awake, testament to his extensive training as one of many soldiers of Agrippa Imperium. However, he was still a mortal human as he too, yawned. ¡°...Abbas. Wake up.¡± ¡°Leave him be.¡± Ava gave the two awoke men another mental transmission. She slithered her avatar to perch on Farhan¡¯s shoulder for appearances. ¡°Your works are more important at this initial phase.¡± ¡°Psst¡­¡± A hushed voice sounded next to the tent assigned to Abbas and his friends. It was Maheer. ¡°Are you awake, Brothers?¡± ¡°Ready as ever.¡± Farhan gave Maheer a curt nod. His spear was nowhere to be seen, presumably he didn¡¯t want to make too much noise as well. Farhan whispered in kind. ¡°Are we going now, Brother?¡± ¡°Brother Farhan, did you get any sleep at all?¡± Maheer was puzzled upon seeing the middle-aged man. Who exactly is this guy? The Najaj militiaman then greeted Salaman. ¡°Brother Salaman, well met.¡± ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry about me, Sir Maheer. I slept well.¡± Farhan stepped outside of the tent with Salaman in tow. ¡°Likewise, I¡¯m too, a guard.¡± He gave Maheer a smile that wasn¡¯t a smile and spoke no further. Seeing Farhan wasn¡¯t willing to dwell on the topic, Maheer said to both of them in low voice. ¡°Then, let¡¯s have some breakfast before we depart.¡± ¡°Breakfast? Great Sir, you don¡¯t have to go so far for us.¡± Salaman had regained his mental faculties. ¡°It would be rude to our guests if we don¡¯t. Please understand, Brothers.¡± Maheer smiled, seemingly telling them that he would be troubled if they rejected his offer. Farhan mulled for a moment and then answered for his good friend Salaman. ¡°Then, please excuse us for our excess.¡± He tailed Maheer with light steps. ¡°Is the breakfast being held at the usual place?¡± ¡°In Salazar¡¯s tent for us.¡± The valiant guard led the duo among half-cleaned ruins of Najaj. There were some men on patrol, giving him wordless salutes. Maheer responded in kind and then looked at Farhan. ¡°Our other brothers had taken their breakfast ahead of us.¡± ¡°So, we need to reconfirm the details with Brother Salazar?¡± Salaman asked. He suspected the other seven men assigned to the alchemist¡¯s task were tying their stomach but he didn¡¯t point it out to Maheer. He wouldn¡¯t want to be seen as a brown-nosed fella. ¡°I hope we don¡¯t encounter any issues.¡± ¡°Eh, that¡¯s part of life.¡± Maheer was philosophical, contrasting his image of experienced Sand Komodo rider. They passed near some tents with weird markings. He cautioned the duo. ¡°Be silent, Brothers.¡± There were three kinds of tents in their path. Papyrus-coloured, indicative of Najaj inhabitants or what left of it. The second type had sandstone palette and peculiar pillar-like insignias. Last type was reminiscent of the rude guest that barged into Salazar¡¯s residence, flowing waves coloured with gold. As they finally passed the northern quarter of Najaj, Salaman spoke to Maheer. ¡°Are those tents with seven pillars are men from Kazar?¡± ¡°Yes, they¡¯re.¡± Maheer nodded at Salaman. ¡°It¡¯s their trademark, the seven guardian pillars ringing the City.¡± The guard scrunched his eyebrows next. ¡°But I don¡¯t know about the flowing waves ones.¡± ¡°From what I heard from your captain; Jasur-¡± Farhan contributed to their ongoing conversation. ¡°-said it might be men from the Khanassat Sultanate. Have you seen them in action, Great Sir?¡± Maheer stopped as they had arrived at their destination. ¡°Strangely, I don¡¯t, Brother Farhan. But it made sense if they¡¯re from Khanassat. What happened in Najaj¡­could happen elsewhere.¡± The guard then rubbed his eyes. There was already someone in front of their meeting place, an unfamiliar man. That man differed little than Jasur¡¯s physique except his facial features and pair of war hammers at his back. He wore a desert robe emblazoned with distinct pillar-like symbol of Kazar City. Ava took a secret look at this man. What were the odds! ¡°I¡¯m Muzaid, one of hired hands to keep Master Salazar safe.¡± ¡°Well met, Brother Muzaid.¡± Maheer returned his greetings. Do¡­Kazarian men know of our plan? He asked to make sure. ¡°What brings you here, Brother? At this dark time to your patron¡¯s lodgings?¡±Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator. Muzaid wasn¡¯t offended at his inquiry as it was natural Maheer would ask so, as one of authorities currently managing Najaj. ¡°I was asked by Master Alchemist to come and substitute one of your men.¡± ¡°Hmm, really?¡± Maheer wasn¡¯t convinced. This guy looked he can swing those hammers easily. He spoke some of his conjectures. ¡°Perhaps your strength is needed in the coming task, Brother Muzaid?¡± ¡°That¡¯s right, Maheer.¡± Salazar showed up with his disciple Dawub to his side. The old man¡¯s eyes were bright as Farhan¡¯s. His disciple was half-asleep. Salazar thus whispered to the young boy. ¡°Disciple, no need to stand here.¡± Dawub complied without a word while Salazar gestured his guests to come in. Farhan was perceptive enough that he saw Ava briefly stared at Muzaid. Does Master Nour know him? He wanted to ask but this wasn¡¯t the proper time or place. The middle-aged man instead played along with current flow of events. ¡°Master Salazar, you don¡¯t have to trouble yourself to prepare us coffee!¡± ¡°Hmph, if I want to do it, I¡¯ll do it.¡± Salazar snorted as he withdrew a small pan out of a compact fire brazier next to him. He crushed the roasted coffee beans in the pan with rhythmic fashion and then put them into a half-filled pot afterwards. ¡°What are you standing all bunched there for? Come here!¡± ¡°Then, pardon our intrusion.¡± Maheer started to distribute cutleries that were prepared in advance. The robed old man shook his pot and left it on the crackling brazier. He spoke. ¡°Brother Muzaid¡¯s one of my, more, useful labour men.¡± Salazar¡¯s haughtiness was gone and replaced with respect. ¡°Out of many worked with me before, I¡¯d say he¡¯s the best-¡± He glanced at Salaman. ¡°but not in talking, haha!¡± ¡°Master Salazar, you overestimated me.¡± Muzaid accepted Salazar¡¯s praise and ignored his remark. It was true that he didn¡¯t get any alchemical stuff said by the old man. The stoic man then glanced at Farhan. ¡°Then, you must be Brother Farhan and Salaman?¡± He gave Ava¡¯s avatar a snap glance. ¡°Yes-¡± Farhan noticed it and, replied in Salaman¡¯s place. ¡°is Brother interested with my guide snake?¡± ¡°It wouldn¡¯t be right if I don¡¯t.¡± Muzaid said after thanking Maheer for handing him some bread. He explained. ¡°In Kazar, we use sand rats as guides. Snake guides are rarer since it¡¯s harder to find one in the first place.¡± ¡°The world¡¯s vast. When you go explore the world, you¡¯ll understand.¡± Salazar interjected after pouring his guests¡¯ coffee in small cups. He drank his cup first. ¡°Things you imagined might be true out there.¡± ¡°Brother Salazar¡¯s right.¡± Salaman swallowed his given bread and then said. ¡°I longed to visit new vistas.¡± He glanced at the old robed alchemist. ¡°I would like to join one of your future travels, Brother!¡± ¡°In due time, Brother Salaman!¡± Salazar laughed out of cordiality. He then took a bite of his bread. ¡°Now my helper Muzaid¡¯s here, we should bring some camels.¡± He gazed at Maheer. ¡°Give me some.¡± ¡°Camels, Master Alchemist?¡± Maheer almost spewed his half-chewed bread. The militiaman had gestures of reluctance. ¡°Master Alchemist, please reconsider. We can¡¯t just willy-nilly travel there.¡± ¡°Then, are you saying that you want to drag the materials here yourself?¡± Salazar was slightly unhappy to find his request rejected this time. The alchemist crossed his arms together in response. ¡°Some cannot be carried by mere hands.¡± ¡°I¡¯m aware of that, Master Alchemist.¡± Maheer drank his cup of coffee to clear his throat. ¡°But if we travel in a too large of a group¡­.¡± He didn¡¯t finish his sentence but the hinted implications were clear. ¡°Then, how about this, Brother Maheer?¡± Salaman said after Ava mentally communicated with the scholarly man. ¡°We initially split into two teams. Muzaid will join you while one of your men accompany Master Salazar and Farhan.¡± Maheer paused for a second as he thought about it. He nodded as the compromise allowed him to keep watch on Muzaid. ¡°Okay. We can only lend two camels, one for each team, Master Alchemist. But Brother Muzaid will not replace my men. He¡¯ll accompany me.¡± ¡°I thought you¡¯ll say that.¡± Salazar finished his breakfast and moved to back of his tent residence. ¡°Take these crates.¡± He pointed at the grouped wooden boxes. ¡°The first has the tools. Second, empty.¡± The militiaman agreed and began to haul four crates out of Salazar¡¯s tent with help of the rest. Salazar nonchalantly walked without carrying any as he had different roles to fulfill. After they met with the remaining Najaj men assigned by Jasur, the expedition to perimeter of Najaj began in its earnest. Their excursion was somehow on cue as the day was neither dark or bright. There were no vicious creatures to be seen, not yet. What were present were litters of monster corpses, Red Scorpions making the majority. Others were either too small or unrecognizable due to effects of Agrippan tools. The six men and two camels exiting Najaj knew that they had limited amount of time; should the sun rose quarter high in the horizon, vicious monsters encircling the town will start their patrols to catch any mortal stragglers from running away or entering Najaj. It was a harrowing period for the six men. Ava who was on Farhan¡¯s shoulders realized the anomaly; when and how did these monsters banded up and cooperatively siege Najaj? She was sure Najaj militiamen were made aware but unable to do much about it. Their piece de resistance were their human allies and those explosive Agrippan tools. Insofar the situation was in a fine equilibrium but after what she witnessed in Najaj, it was a matter of time until the town was overwhelmed despite existence of various human factions in it. What backing, what face? The vicious monsters sieging Najaj seemed to have simpler mindset, more primal and feral. Too bad that she had sealed her [Molecular Assembly] prior. Otherwise this salvage would been done in a flash! She moved away from Farhan and kept cautious gaze to the vicinity. Meanwhile, Farhan got to work with the old alchemist, tearing a particularly large Red Scorpion corpse and sorting the pieces. The Najaj militiaman assigned to Salazar was a man of few words and simply loaded whatever valuable pieces that were retrieved into the waiting crate. For a moment there were only silence reigning the surrounding lands except occasional clanks and thunks as the alchemist and middle-aged man worked. Not every piece of said corpse was salvaged partly due to time shortage and due to limited number of tools brought over by Salazar to Najaj. The stinger was always taken as its poison can be used for many things. The claws weren¡¯t as Salazar didn¡¯t know how to process them. Bits of carapace were taken. With Salazar¡¯s guidance, Farhan became adept on recognizing which part was worth the effort in regards to condition of the corpse. Ava had learnt as well as she usually took all, not considering how to optimally harvest them in difficult terms. The trio went from two then four carcasses and picked up the pace. Suddenly, the militiaman assigned to the alchemist spoke. ¡°Grand Master, we shouldn¡¯t venture further than this.¡± ¡°Hm?¡± Salazar was in a good mood due to their bountiful harvest. He was even more happy that he spotted of what could be a Crescent Shark remains in the far horizon. ¡°We¡¯re only to get one more corpse, a Crescent Shark.¡± ¡°I concur with Brother-¡± Farhan felt uneasy and agreed with the Najaj guard. ¡°Master Alchemist I fe-¡± The middle-aged man retracted his words. He heard something. ¡°We should retreat now, silently.¡± Salazar gave Ava a slight glance for confirmation. She verified what Farhan had said. The old man thus accepted their advices. ¡°Okay. I agree.¡± As soon as that word was spoken, loud droning sounds were heard in the far distance. From their secluded location, the three men peeked over the sand dune in front of them and saw blackish clouds moving from one spot to another. It was circle of life in action; Javalan Flies were eating the corpses. Farhan and the militiaman took a survey of their vicinity. More Javalan Flies swarms appeared, seemingly intent of sweeping clean the area. Now, the mystery on why there weren¡¯t many carcasses out here was solved; the flies devoured them. At the moment, the insect clouds haven¡¯t spotted them. The Najaj militiaman was decisive after seeing how the flies¡¯ swarms moved. ¡°We need to split up, Brother Farhan.¡± He looked at Salazar. ¡°Grand Master, although my service is short, I¡¯ll do my duty even if it costs my life.¡± ¡°What, are you going to charge at them alone? Spare me the morbid talk.¡± Salazar frowned. He eventually spotted the militiaman putting out some round jars from his pouch. ¡°A couple of those explosives wouldn¡¯t do a thing, nada.¡± Ava saw the developing situation and decided to intervene. She spoke to Farhan¡¯s mind. ¡°You need to use the camel as the bait. Outrunning Javalan Flies right now, are impossible. Reduce the swarms first. Boobytrap the camel.¡± Farhan stilled on her suggestion. He gave it some thought and slightly nodded at her avatar. The middle-aged man arranged his words and said. ¡°Brother, how about this? We should do it this way¡­¡± The droning became closer, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The three men reached a compromise and acted the plan to escape the vicious flies. Farhan slapped the butt of the camel, sending it directly at one of nearby insect swarms. This immediately caused uproar from the flies! ¡°Now!¡± The Najaj militiaman shouted as he threw some rocks to keep the camel running forward and not retreat back to them. He, Farhan and Salazar ran in three opposite directions as soon the camel was swarmed by some of the flies. With loud bangs, three of seven Javalan Flies¡¯ groups swarming the camel were engulfed in raging fire and turned to dust from the resulting air overpressures. It was now do or die for the three men, to run and escape this disaster! C29 - Kugelblitz If Ava¡¯s snake avatar had hands and a forehead, she would facepalmed. These three mortals actually followed up with their stupid plan! At this rate, all of them will be killed, starting from the old man alchemist himself! It was like watching a slow-moving train wreck, one that was entirely avoidable. However, rice had turned to porridge and brooding over it was fruitless. In response of that, her vast consciousness began to churn, birthing and ending countless plans in fraction of a second. All of them had one thing in common; the Najaj guard accompanying them must die. It was the best compromise. Zheng, thump. Zheng, zheng, thump, thump! Ava glanced backwards. The culprit was a hundred-strong Javalan Flies swarm knocking at one of the crates brought by Farhan. The crate¡¯s stank brought them here. Flies being flies sought foul matter by instinct regardless type of the world. She ignored the insects and peered over sand dunes on her left. Bwosh, bwosh, bwosh! Multiple purple clouds clouded her line of sight to Salazar. It turned out the alchemist was no slouch! Ava¡¯s current state prevented her from analyzing said clouds but the results were obvious as a portion of vicious flies chasing Salazar suddenly died. The old man chucked more vials as he sprinted away. Shrak, shrak, shrak! Her next observation target was the Najaj militiaman. He was furiously swinging his dao weapon as he ran, leaving chopped Javalan Flies in his wake. Jasur must¡¯ve taken Salazar¡¯s request seriously as he gave the militiaman here a wind scimitar and some Agrippan tools. However, how long could he last? In contrast, there were little combat noises coming from Farhan, save tussling of hot sands as the vicious insects continued to hound him. Ava gave him a second look; all he did was dodge, dodge and dodge. Javalan Flies weren¡¯t the clever sort and thus she was puzzled at his apparent passiveness. The Post Human reset her glance to Javalan Flies that still buzzing the crate. Even if she didn¡¯t save the Najaj militiaman, the flies were still obstacles if not a minor one. She needed to eliminate all of them at once before other creatures rush here. As she was about to slip away, she heard a crackling sound. Pzzzt, pzzt, pzzt! ¡°Cursed desert!¡± The male Najaj militiaman had his hand burnt as his wind scimitar blew up from overuse. At that moment it was over as the flies swarmed him to his death! However, that wasn¡¯t the end of it; his corpse bloated up before exploding in shower of gore, revealing even more Javalan Flies! The only saving grace was the man had one last Agrippan tool on his person, wiping out half of newly emerged flies as his body detonated. Now, the situation became grave as Ava caught a glimpse of her actual adversary, a mutated strain of Javalan Flies that she previously encountered in Alkharm Wadi. Zheng, zheng, zheng! As if on cue, the flies surrounding the crate in front of her and ones chasing Farhan and Salazar split off to clash with said mutated swarm. It was an unexpected behaviour but nevertheless a welcome change. Ava took this chance to move her avatar to a different vantage point for better observation. Salazar was the second to notice the anomaly. ¡°Farhan! What should we do now?!¡± Desperation was clear in his voice. ¡°Where¡¯s Master Nour?!!¡± ¡°I am disappointed in you two.¡± Ava interrupted Farhan¡¯s reply as she slithered her way to them. Farhan vaguely sensed the Post Human was quite unhappy at him and Salazar despite her flat tone in his mind. The middle-aged man disregarded his tiredness and forcibly kowtowed to her snake avatar. ¡°Forgive me for my insolence of not consulting you, Master. Pu-pu-punish me as you see fit.¡± ¡°¡­.¡± There was a slight pause as Ava assessed the situation once more. She spoke to Salazar¡¯s mind afterwards. ¡°Alchemist. Does your vials work on them?¡± ¡°Err¡­.¡± This time it was Salazar¡¯s turn to pause as he struggled to catch his breath. He looked at the same direction as Ava and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Master Nour. Those¡­...are beyond my capabilities. We should retreat while they¡¯re fighting each other.¡± Ava placed her stare on the still panting Farhan and guessed. ¡°You want to fight them in order to atone for your mistake?¡± She flicked her snake¡¯s avatar tail in disapproval. ¡°A foolish endeavor. Stand, down.¡± The Post Human hit a sore mark as Farhan kowtowed again. ¡°I¡¯m ashamed of my incapability, Master.¡± ¡°I will personally deal with them.¡± Ava said after some deliberation. She explained more as the two men reflexively raised their eyebrows at her words. ¡°The Javalan Flies are no match for their mutated kin. This disaster should be stopped before it reaches Najaj.¡± ¡°Does Master want me to¡­¡± Farhan rose and gestured with his hands. ¡°No. Stand off to the side.¡± The Post Human cut his words short. ¡°In fact, go hide behind a couple of sand dunes for your own safety.¡± She also spoke to Salazar. ¡°You follow him, old man. You are of no use here.¡± ¡°As¡­as you command, Master Nour.¡± The robed alchemist accepted her order in an awkward tone. He asked one last time before departing with Farhan. ¡°Does Master Nour have further instructions?¡± ¡°If you encounter other Najaj men, tell them to return.¡± Ava peered at the horizon. ¡°It is now noon. A beast wave might be currently in progress.¡± Salazar barked at Farhan¡¯s ear upon hearing that. Evidently any news of a beast wave shouldn¡¯t be taken lightly. ¡°Farhan! Forget about my request, rush to Najaj now!¡± ¡°Got it!¡± The middle-aged man didn¡¯t argue further and picked up Salazar as he ran. He wasn¡¯t fully convinced but knew better to not doubt Ava at this juncture. Crossing an eccentric never ends well. Ava gave the two male mortals some parting words as they hastily retreated. ¡°Whatever you hear or sense, never look back.¡± She spoke one last time before they moved beyond the range of her mental transmission. ¡°Or you will lose more than your eyes.¡± ¡°Okay Master Nour! Take care!¡± ¡°Please return, this old man has many more things to discuss!¡± As she saw the men vanish from her sight, she readied herself of what to come. This day couldn¡¯t be any worse; Farhan of all people agreed to the dumb guard¡¯s plans. Salazar wasn¡¯t any better, failing to see the bigger perspective. She convinced herself that it was simply a mortal¡¯s folly. A miscalculation. Zheng zheng zheng! The fly swarms some zhang away inadvertently swept toward the Post Human as their battle came to a climax. It was like witnessing a ravenous fire feasting on dry leaves as the mutated Javalan Flies began to have the upper hand in their conflict. Ava largely avoided them by slipping her way through. Unfortunately for her, she happened to hit some of the vicious flies as she moved. This attracted unrequited attention from the two opposing swarms, causing both of them to target her. They began to repeatedly hit her avatar, wishing to devour its flesh and gain advantage against the other party. Thwack, thwack, thwack! She braved through the onslaught since there were simply too many of them! Her vision became dark as the revolving swarms snuffed out the daylight. Even if she flicked some of them away, hundreds more will come to fill the void. In short, using physical force was practically useless against these flies. Ava had enough and slapped the sandy dune below her avatar, sending clouds of sand between the two competing swarms. While they were still blinded by said clouds, she backed away with a soft whoosh sound. Then, the opposing swarms¡¯ frozen conflict reignited as they lost sight of her presence. Slap!This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. The Post Human flipped her avatar¡¯s tail on reflex and caught something. It was an opportunistic Gale Sparrow that also attempted to devour her avatar. She threw the interloper to said Javalan Flies and the result was obvious. The bird only managed to shriek one last time before being ripped to shreds! Despite her action, more Gale Sparrows attacked her and summarily met their grisly end. These creatures obviously didn¡¯t know the immensity between heaven and earth. She stopped counting when it reached double digits. Why was this happening? Gale Sparrows were supposed to be smart! Eventually it came to a tenuous balance; while the flies spotted Ava again, they achieved an unspoken agreement to ignore her and each other. They instead gleefully dealt with any Gale Sparrows that Ava flung to them. However, if the birds were to run out, she knew she could be next on the flies¡¯ menu. That moment couldn¡¯t come any sooner as the fiftieth Gale Sparrow she flung managed to right itself in time and escaped from waiting Javalan Flies. The cheeky bird flew back, bringing the entire flies swarm with it! She tried to grab it but only to be met with failure and ridicule from the damned bird. The Post Human was left with little choice than to run away as the flies were hot on her figurative heels. There was also the matter of other Gale Sparrows she saw in the corner of her eyes. Although she wasn¡¯t sure what the birds were up to, they were flying in some sort of ambiguous formation. She leaped from one sand dune to another in her attempt to open some distance. The flies were more direct; as they flew, anything that stood in their path either gave way or was destroyed. It was surreal to see horde of insects pulverizing sandstone outcrops but Ava had long shed her old preconceptions. Shew! Crack! Ava was a bit stunned when something invisible clashed with her avatar¡¯s scales. She initially dismissed it but when it was repeated for the third time, it wasn¡¯t a fluke. At her side, she caught sight of a Gale Sparrow opening its tiny beak toward her. She didn¡¯t know what was it but assumed it was trouble! With a pshew sound, the Post Human braked herself and swiped a fist of sand directly into the opened beak of said bird. Her sudden counterattack caused it to choke and fell prey to the fly swarms behind her. She took this chance to open a nontrivial gap in order to climb on some of tallest sand dunes here. From her observation point, she saw few thousands Javalan Flies and fives of Gale Sparrows at tens of zhangs in the far distance. There were no larger beasts in sight, which was a good omen. She stopped thinking too deep into it and gave the skies above a look. It was time to use her transcendent ability! Slash! The first test subject, an unwitting Gale Sparrow was cut into two perfect halves. Its companion chirped in response albeit halfway as they too, fell at Ava¡¯s metaphorical hands. This sent some pause to surviving Gale Sparrows; they were utterly terrified of her now. There was no warning of her attack! No, there was a minuscule warning namely a thin ray that emanated from her location. It was simply too fast for them to react to. A flash, and whatever targeted by her was dead! The Javalan Flies had no such qualms and charged straight at her regardless, in their renewed attempt to consume her flesh. Sssst, ssst, ssst! Multiple branch-like light rays flashed into existence from various hazy spots orbiting the Post Human. It was over in blink of an eye; each condensed beam of light vapourised multiple targets with unerring accuracy. With each flash, hundreds were annihilated. No amount of dodging was enough to avoid it! The flies truly bitten more than they can chew this time as close to half were killed when they were less than three zhangs from Ava. Ones that were lucky quickly dispersed, to give chase to surviving Gale Sparrows. It immediately turned into free for all sans her as they knew she was bringer of death! Ava thus gained free reign to act as she wished in the meantime as said competing vicious creatures steered clear of her. She observed the conflict between them and confirmed a few things; some Gale Sparrows can use invisible blades of air while Javalan Flies can mutate to a rare and aggressive variant. Either case, she cannot let the mutated Javalan Flies go scot-free as she had first-hand experience of their nature in Alkharm Wadi. Ava used her ability again but this time to compress light as much as her [Gravity Control] allowed. She then threw multiple speck-sized light balls to her intended targets. Such balls of light arrived almost instantaneously while leaving bluish trails in their wake. They exploded a nanosecond later to form light cones that blanketed her opponents. Javalan Flies were gone, reduced to atoms while Gale Sparrows in range left faint dark shadows on the sandy dunes. Further out were a handful of such birds that were mostly out of reach of aforementioned light cones but they lived in borrowed time; as they flew further, their feathers fell. Their skins began to slough and their organs started to liquify. Eventually, what¡¯s left of them were several foul-smelling puddles. Kuhk! Ava¡¯s avatar too wasn¡¯t spared as it coughed up black liquid afterwards. It turned out that she misjudged the backscatter from her assault and took some damage as well. The Post Human proceeded to rip portions of her avatar and applied a few herbs she collected in her earlier adventures. Most of her avatar¡¯s scales had been singed and became brittle. The flesh underneath slowly putrefied and the sub-dermis in the middle didn¡¯t fare well either. It was indeed a dangerous gamble as she could lose control of her avatar here for good. However, there was no breakthrough without adversity! She had verified phased light and its brethren, short-lived kugelblitz were exceedingly effective against biological creatures. Whenever and wherever there was light, she could use them to attack her enemies. They were also completely unavoidable unless one had precognition or some type of oracle. Nevertheless, this answer opened the door to more questions. What if she used them against say, someone like Farhan? Or mythical immortals that she was yet to find? She heard that such kind of beings tend to harness the so-called dao energy to mitigate damage that otherwise fatal to mortals. After a time taken to brew a pot of coffee, Ava shook her snake avatar and dislodged its former scales, skin and everything bad. Multiple blood red tendrils that glistened under high noon followed next, dragging and reclaiming whatever of value. She estimated her avatar had lost 10% of its original mass. By now, Farhan and Salazar should had reached Najaj or close to it. That was one less trouble but the matter regarding Husan still held some weight in her mind. She perceived this detour was somewhat inefficient and thus reformulated her plans. If she was too late, the four-armed elder was likely killed. Kisha!!!! Ava turned her snake avatar¡¯s head to the far east and caught sight of four dust devils, three large and one small. Between them were multiple flying objects but they were too far to identify. The Post Human inferenced that it was best to ignore them but that small dust cloud was heading toward her. She considered to eliminate all four of them until she heard curses from the small dust devil. ¡°Damned desert! Najaj guards are all useless!¡± ¡°Fuck! I even sold my dao spear!¡± As the cloud got closer, there was a male figure in front of it. ¡°Fuck this desert, fuck Najaj!¡± Some zhangs away from the male were three Red Scorpions, zealously furious at that. They were shooting threes of shiny blobs at the running man albeit with little success. Ava felt she shouldn¡¯t interfere with circle of life here. She was flicking the tail of her avatar, ready to dig down and to hide. Swish, swish, swish! She trained her eyes to the far distance and saw several sand swellings chasing said three horse-sized arachnids. One of it burst open and lo, an outhouse-sized Crescent Shark swallowed the slowest Red Scorpion whole! Another two Crescent Sharks appeared and teared the second Red Scorpion apart! ¡°Ah damned heavens!¡± The green-eyed running male cursed once again. ¡°Fuck Jasur! Argh!¡± From his voice and eye-catching flowing wave patterns on his robes, Ava figured it must¡¯ve been the same person that barged into Salazar¡¯s tent before. Her impression of the man became even lower; not only he interrupted her prior talk with Salazar, he even had the gall to bring this disaster to her! This was the second time Ava had the urge to slap him. Kriek, kriek, kriek! The last Red Scorpion abandoned its human prey in order to put up a fight against its pursuers. It swerved to the right, avoiding a leaping Crescent Shark. In that split-second time window, the arachnid clamped down its powerful left claw and teared a minor portion of said shark with force of fifty men! A huge geyser of dark red blood erupted from the injured Crescent Shark but that wasn¡¯t the end of it. Its companions instantly swoop to the mangled vicious beast and split it seven ways to heaven! Such cannibalism rapidly ignited further furor among the remaining Crescent Sharks to rip and tear! Suffice to say, the last Red Scorpion suffered the same fate as the fallen Crescent Shark. Aforementioned man ran even faster than ever as death was staring at his face, or specifically a pack of Crescent Sharks. This conflict looked inevitable to Ava as they were simply too close to her now. Ava let the helter-skelter male simply pass beside her as her focus was on the sharks. There were approximately five or seven of the vicious beasts, leaping and diving in the loose hot sand. The Post Human executed her first move by sending three streaks of concentrated sunlight to the closest target. The targeted Crescent Shark groaned in response as its eyeballs had exploded from her attack! Her third condensed light beam punched a tiny hole straight to the creature¡¯s brain although it didn''t penetrate deep enough. Nevertheless, the creature fell squirming to the side due to its head being punctured by Ava. Her second wave of attack failed to achieve significant effect as the odd four or six vicious beasts were either not in her optimal cone of sight or were underground. She changed tactics by targeting their fins instead. Loud thumps were heard as she managed to immobilize two Crescent Sharks by chance. The aforementioned male apparently noticed something strange was going on. ¡°Wait, what? What happened to¡­.¡± ¡°You, stay there.¡± Ava gave him a glance and detonated the air in front of him with calibrated light pulses. The man was immediately knocked out from the resulting concussion. The Post Human proceeded to replicate the same thing multiple times near her current surroundings. As the result, the immobilized Crescent Sharks were completely incapacitated from the generated shockwaves while remaining two literally flee for their lives with blood trailing off from where their internal ears would be. Pscht, pscht! Ava still attacked them by aiming two condensed sunlight at their center mass. The first one had a portion of its back spine destroyed while the second one suffered a minor cut and thus avoided her wrath. She waited for a bit before sending a fingernail-sized light ball after the escaped Crescent Shark. A fraction of a second later, a distant sand dune was melted into a small glass crater.