Chapter 766 (2/2)

“For a man without hope, you sure hold tightly to honor,” The Monster Prince said helplessly. Then the prince began to laugh, as the overwhelmed by the sudden refusal. To Alrick’s surprise, he found himself caught up in the strange joy of the moment. The two of them stood on the cliff above the sea of people and laughed for quite some time.

When they finally quieted, Aldrick said seriously, “Duty is what is left of ambition when hope dies. Even though I suspect your path might be the same as mine, I hope you find a different end to your journey, enemy of mine.”

There was a ghost of a smile on the Monster Prince’s face. “Enemies, eh? It feels like I already have too many of those these days.”

“My people have said that it is always best to judge by one’s enemies. Truly, those destined for greatness will not antagonize the weak and crippled.” Alrick said, remembering how serious his mother had looked when she had explained to him the rules to live by. And as he remembered her, his stance softened imperceptibly.

Perhaps Mama was correct, Alrick conceded to himself. Although my life has reached its end… it has meaning, if only to guide those that follow. Without tradition… the glory of what we are would be lost.

“...it seems there is no more to say between us.” The Monster Prince said slowly. “Goodbye, Alrick. I suspect the next time we meet each other… well. Such a place will not be one of words.”

“Mmm,” Alrick rumbled. But as the Monster Prince turned to walk away, Alrick surprised himself by saying, “And you, prince? What is your name?”

For a second, the Monster Prince’s face went blank. But then he simply shrugged.

“Randidly. Randidly Ghosthound.”

*****

“Darrune, do you think I would believe your lies?!” A tall man said, spitting on the ground. But to the tall man’s surprise, Darrune didn’t flinch at all at his aggressive movements. In fact, Darrune seemed perfectly at ease in the canvas chair in which he sat.

“It is true, brother. Would I lie to you? Ask around, many witnessed it.” Darrune said mildly. “Today, a Pontiff arrived at our camp. Upon spotting me, he was so taken by my spear potential that he demonstrated his ultimate move for me and many others. With just a finger, he produced the most perfect attack I have ever seen…! Witnessing it once was enough to increase my Skill Level in Vicious Thrust by 29 Levels.”

At the announcement that Darrune had gained twenty-nine Skill Levels from watching something, the third person in the tent choked on her water. After pounder her chest for several seconds, she regarded Darrune suspiciously. “That’s impossible.”

“I was once like you, unable to see the light,” Darrune said with a sad shake of the head. “But now… well, my eyes are opened. That is why I called the two of you over to speak. There is an opportunity here. My master made it known to me that he wanted a few guards to protect his interests while he was in the area. I am unsure whether he will bother to instruct again, but-”

“But a Pontiff?” The tall man was unconvinced.

“...unfortunately, I did hear rumors about this,” The woman admitted reluctantly. She shot Darrune a barbed glance before continuing. “I heard no word that this was a demonstration, however. They way I heard it, he tried to kill you. He didn’t even need to lift a finger and had you on your knees.”

“Would such a powerful spear user truly have difficulty killing me?” Darrune said with a smile.

In spite of herself, the woman cackled. “Have some respect Darrune. Truly, you are the most shameless man I know. Hmmm, well even if it's just a chance, being taught by a Pontiff… it’s too juicy to pass up. Fine, we will assist your ‘Master’. But if it turns out you have been lying to us…”

“I’ll kill you.” The tall man said, filling in the long pause the woman left. Darrune didn’t even twitch. He simply chuckled. But his eyes sparkled with glee.